Welcome to Bristle!!! (The adventure)

[Centaur Hero]

A light breeze makes it's way through the pine trees surrounding you carrying with it a sweet earthy scent. You all have been traveling for over a tenday, without seeing a trace of civilization, other than the day before, when you all saw a sign post next to a stream with a hand pointing east reading: Redwyne village this way. And another pointing south, reading: The town of Bristle this way, Welcome to Bristle county. Another sign was on the ground on the side of the road reading :Welcome to Barovia. The driver of the wagon you are escourting takes the road south, and says for you all to keep an eye peeled, "The rangers and druids do their best to keep the roads safe, but they can't be everywhere at once. Last time I was here, there was Ankegs all over the road only a day from town." The 15gp he promised to each of you seems almost robbery concidering how quiet the journey had been thusfar. The only thing to be heard is the singing of songbirds.

Anyone who has knowlege nature, roll it up.

http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?339425-Welcome-to-Bristle-(The-tavern)&p=17251951#post17251951

[Seeress of Kell]

I look around, paying close attention to see if I can detect anything out of the ordinary.

Knowledge (nature) roll: [roll0]

[evyldead]

Niomi keeps her eyes peeled *She doesn't have nature but ill roll up a spot check* [roll0] <- spot

[Kimino394]

"How undeniably drab this is..", muttered Sellestrian to himself. Sure, he could keep an eye out for danger. Why should he though? They had some sort of land-tracker with them, an elf no less. Granted, she had an annoying way of seeming to think she was witty, but that would more than likely not impede her ability to pin point any of these "Ankegs" that had caused a fuss in the caravans past.

Then again.. Perhaps keeping an eye up would be for the wiser.. "I do not fancy having my belongings pilfered.." came another mutter from the wizard. He placed a hand at the spellbook hanging from his neck by metal chain. That's right.. Was there not a halfling accompanying the caravan? Maybe more than one.. The amount didn't matter much to Sellestrian. All that mattered is that he had heard the cretins were in possession of rather sticky fingers. Someone would certainly have to make sure that they stuck to themselves.

"They shall have a bookstore at out destination." he decided quite to himself. They would have a bookstore, right?

[Felhammer]

NATHANIEL

The hardened veteran has remained in his seat, bolt upright, just like a good soldier. At mention of Ankehgs, Nathan stands up, as best he can on a moving wagon, and surveys the area for any danger, "Ankegs are nasty buggers, far as I heard. We don't want to be caught unawares, especially not in a wooden crate like this. Keep your eyes sharp people."

[roll0]

[Centaur Hero]

As you wind on down the road.... You come accross a section of road with holes the size of Cow on either side. With dirt piled up around the edges. If you go near one and look in, they are all filled with water, and nothing stirs. Upon closer inspection, you notice that the dirt piles do not appear to be freshly dug, and spots of grass and weeds dot them. "Seems the beasts have found other holes to dig." The wagon driver chuckles to himself. As you leave the area behind, you all get this feeling that something ominous is out there, watching.....

[Lady Moreta]

Aiden walks cautiously, feeling unaccountably nervous. There is nothing out there that he can see, and he trusts in Miri's eyesight - more than he does his own at any rate. He has stationed himself at the part of the caravan that seems the most vulnerable to him, and is trying his best to ignore the gnawing feeling in his gut that something is bound to go wrong at any moment now.


May I make a recommendation? That being, that all OOC go in spoilers if they need to be in this thread. Thinking specifically of dice rolls and evyldead's asterisk'd stuff. The story (and therefore the game) flows better if OOC is kept separate from gameplay.

[Seeress of Kell]

Mirielye

Mirielye still looks around, feeling nervous - all the training in the world can't prepare you for the reality of being responsible for lives other than your own. She turns to Aiden and says "I can't shake the feeling that there's something out there, even though I can't see anything." Then she readies her longbow, and nocks an arrow, ready to draw. "Better safe than sorry," she thinks to herself.

[Sikario]

Marcus

At the tailgate, playing with a little piece of jewelry, sits Marcus. A young boy dressed as a soldier, but also looking the part. He carries a big sword with him, and his strong arms look like he can handle it without problem.
"After all this time on the road, even the sight of problem makers looks promising. Whatever Ankegs are." He jumps out of the wagon and takes a defensive position. Everybody looks tense or alert, so he decides to join the formation.

"Say elves, what exactly are we looking for? Footprints, wings, smell?" he asks the guarding group.
The "group". The wagon driver hired a lot of people, and very different people, to guard a single wagon. For the few words they have shared, there are arcane casters, rangers, even a paladin.
Most of them look as inexperienced as him, but a couple are intriging.

"I have so much to learn yet." thinks Marcus as he hears the elf claiming to sense something.

[evyldead]

Niomi

Looking over towards Marcus, "I'm not too sure on what exactly, but have no worries. Whatever these Ankegs are, we can stop them from taking this caravan." Niomi stays where shes at just looking around for any signs of people or things following us.

[Felhammer]

NATHANIEL

The halfling puts his hand on his brow to block the sun from getting in his eyes. With a stern, commanding voice he states, "Keep your eyes out and quiet down. We have no intelligence on these Ankegs. They could be attracted to the sound of idle chatter for all we know. If you have ranged weapons, get them at the ready. I'd rather not have to wrestle one of these, what ever they are, down like a fattened up holiday pig.

[Centaur Hero]

Another mile or two passes by, and you come upon a curve in the road, leaving the Ankeg holes far behind. Almost as soon as the wagon driver says "Just another few miles till the edge of the forrest I do believe." Arrows come streaking out of the foliage!

All the arrows either thud into the wagon, or harmlessly to the ground, except one manages to find it's way into the Paladin. Take 2 damage Aiden.

One arrow barely sinks into the armor of Aiden, just barely piercing the flesh, though blood starts to ooze through the new shoulder wound.

And one elf comes charging up before the wagon, after bursting from the trees., "If any of you wish to make it to Bristle whole, you will relinquish this wagon to Yiligeth! The next volley will be much more deadly I promise! None will make it out alive if you do not!" He yells while flourishing his rapier in one hand!

[Lady Moreta]

Aiden

Aiden blinks, startled, taken off-guard despite his bad feeling. It takes a moment for the pain of an arrow to the arm to really register, and he stares for a moment before the elf's words sink in. Pay attention, idiot! he scolds himself, before hastily hefting his shield, noting in passing that the arrow doesn't seem to be making that much difference to his ability to hold it. Thank you, Pelor Aiden offers a silent prayer of thanks, before taking a step forward,

"There is no need for violence here," he states, ignoring the irony of the arrow in his arm. If you are in need of some assistance, then perhaps there is a way we can work together, to get what you need." Aiden's voice is measured and calm, exuding self-confidence. Inside, he is desperately praying that no one will notice how nervous he is.


Diplomacy: [roll0] - in the vague hopes that the inevitable fight can be staved off, not that I expect it to work at all.

[Felhammer]

NATHANIEL

The Halfling stands up and straightens his leather armor. He looks the elf square in the eye and says, "We will not surrender to brigands. In fact, I dare say you have bitten off more than you can chew, old bean. I am a Warmage, trained in the hallowed halls of Castle Coldridge. Alone, I am more powerful than a cadre of peasant archers trembling fearfully in the woods. I am not alone. You will retreat back into the woods and not bother another soul for the rest of the day. When we arrive in Bristle, I will report you to the local authorities who will come back here and root you out like the cowards you are (that is if you haven't already run back to your mother's bosom in the interim). Let me assure you that, if you are foolish enough to choose battle, you will lose. I will melt your face off and the faces of all your highwaymen friends. Worse yet, I will go back to each of your corpses in turn and light them aflame with my magic. There won't be enough of you left for your kin to bury."

After a dramatic pause, Nathaniel states, "Now run."

[roll0]

[Kimino394]

Sellestrian Cellebrindal

"..She says, with nary a clue of what an Ankeg may be. Chitin hard as steel'd not blow me off my feet in surprise." Sellestrian mutters in regards to Niomi's comment. Knowing how things went, Sellestrian thought, he'd probably end up saving the caravan's arse single handedly. People are so useless.

Having indulged his self-loving for the time being, Sellestrian turns his gaze to listen to the halflings words. Unbelievably, he seemed to be the one here with the most sense. Atleast, that is how it seems to the elven wizard, "I suppose what they say of the short folk isn't half true.. Though." he states, afterwhich moving his hand back to his spell book, "I'll still take nary a chance."

As the arrows flew through the air, as they thunked against the wagon upon which Sellestrian sits, even as they pierce Aidens armor, Sellestrian makes not a peep. He makes no move for his rapier, nor to stand. No, the elven wizard instead stay seated, rather still, hoping furiously that the sweat buildup he can feel upon his head does not run down onto his face.
He was terrified, 'tis true. Any sane person would be, no? Yet still, Sellestrian could not help but also feel excitement boiling up within his gut. Finally: Something was happening.

Completely disregarding Aidens words, Sellestrian instead pays attention to the words of the halfling, after listening to which, he lowers the chain on his spellbook so that it might rest on his lap, before opening it slowly to the first page, all the while keeping his eyes on the scene before him.

[evyldead]

Niomi Shengee

Niomi looks at the people trying to communicate with these foul elves like their really going to care what we are saying"I don't think that they care much for your talk since their in fact shooting arrows and one seems to be charging at us. Niomi steps down and pulls her rapier out, and readies to attack when he gets close enough.

[Sikario]

Marcus

"No, no arrows on my body, good." he thinks to himself as the charging elf speaks.

Then the paladin and the halfling give him to clear options. But completelly opposite ones. "Interesting, this people do not know each other from before either, they don't know how to not step on each other shoes. Now, how will the elves reach?" as his think process goes, Marcus sees the thin elf advance. "Well, there is no doubt now." he mutters to himself.
Knowing the attackers would see this as resistance and unload another set of arrows, Marcus whispers to the people at the wagon, trying not to let his voice reach the approaching elf. "Get ready to move under the wagon if that elf stops moving." he readies himself for that same movement.

[Centaur Hero]

Upon seeing how many guards this caravan seems to have, and seeing that they by no means wish to surrender, he steps forward, assuming a battle stance, he simply says, "let us begin the dance then my friends...." Then he hollers "Get em boys!!!"

[Lady Moreta]

Aiden

Aiden cringed a little at the halfing's words, not because there was anything wrong with them, but because he badly wished he'd thought of them himself. All the training in the world couldn't prepare you for what it was really like out there.

He was almost relieved when the elf called to his yet-unseen comrades to attack. Fighting was something he understood, something he was good at. He tossed a reflexive "Stay behind me" at Miri and drawing his sword and setting his shield, prepared for battle.

[evyldead]

Niomi Shengee

"Oh great there's more now. Hey tough guys get ready. Niomi smirks at these elfs and laughs a little bit to herself

[Seeress of Kell]

Mirielye

Mirielye freezes for a split second - her first real battle rattles her nerves just a bit. She recovers quickly, and hopes nobody noticed her hesitation. She also starts to get annoyed Aiden a tiny bit for telling her to stay behind him - but she realizes it's probably just his nature and tries not to let it get to her. "Now is not the time," she thinks to herself, knowing that somehow, she's got to make herself trust that these people know what they're doing. Glad that she already had her bow at the ready, she takes a deep breath and looks for an opening to make a shot.

[Sikario]

Marcus

Marcus moves quiclky to reach the driver of the wagon "Hurry up and get under the cart!" He prepares his sword and gets ready for the incoming action.
"We are in a bad position, we should get cover or move closer!"


Initiative: 23
How far are the archers? Can we reach in a turn? Is there any cover if we can't make it in one turn?

I will get Protection Devotion ready in case I see more arrows flying. It's an immediate action, si if more arrows fly, I activate it. (It gives +2AC to everyone in a 20' radius)

[Centaur Hero]

Marcus

Marcus moves quiclky to reach the driver of the wagon "Hurry up and get under the cart!" He prepares his sword and gets ready for the incoming action.
"We are in a bad position, we should get cover or move closer!"


Initiative: 23
How far are the archers? Can we reach in a turn? Is there any cover if we can't make it in one turn?

I will get Protection Devotion ready in case I see more arrows flying. It's an immediate action, si if more arrows fly, I activate it. (It gives +2AC to everyone in a 20' radius)

Make a search check to see the archers Marcus.

[Centaur Hero]

The brigand introduces himself as "Quick Willie" Before he begins his dance. He then charges Aiden hoping to remove him from combat quickly. He deftly slides his blade through a seam in you're armor just under the armpit, and you feel a wave of pain roll down you're body.

Take 7 damage from the rapier.

"You move like a lame cow, boy!"

[Felhammer]

NATHANIEL

"And you won't be in the mood for quips once your face is gone, cur!" The warmage conjures a small ball of acid in his hands, swings his arm back and chucks it at the brigand.


Ranged Touch Attack: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1] of Acid Damage

[Sikario]

Make a search check to see the archers Marcus.

[roll0] searching for archers!

[Lady Moreta]

Aiden

Aiden staggers back, nearly dropping his sword - only long years of training have made it as much a part of himself as his whole arm and his fingers instinctively tighten around the hilt. He twists slightly, trying to see if there's any damage to his armour, and pain makes him freeze with a sucked in breath. This is, he realises, the first time he's ever truly been hit in combat. Being bruised black and blue in training doesn't count, he decides. Nor does it hurt this much.

He wants desperately to leap into the fray, to fight and win, and it is that very thought that makes him stop. Fighting is not about winning, he hears his father's voice say. Fighting is about protecting those who look to you. Like Miri, Aiden thinks, though he's not entirely sure she does look to him for protection, he is still determined to look after her. He still remembers the utterly lost look on her face when they first met. I cannot protect them if I cannot fight.

Aiden lets himself fall back another step and switches his sword to his off hand so he can reach through to the gaping hole in his body.


When it's actually his turn, Aiden will lay on hands for 2 points, to bring him up to a total of 5 (saving the other 2 just in case someone else gets hurt).

[Centaur Hero]

[roll0] searching for archers!

Marcus fails to see any of brigands in the woods.

Quick Willie takes the blast of asid stoicly, "When I win this combat, I will personally make you sew me a new cloak mage!"

[Seeress of Kell]

Mirielye

"Aiden!" Miri yells as she sees him step back, but at the same time she realizes that with his movement, she has the opening she needs to fire at this elf who calls himself "Willie." "What kind of elf name is that, anyway?" she wonders to herself, as she takes a deep breath and lets an arrow fly.


Attack: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

[Lady Moreta]

Aiden

"I'm fine," Aiden grunts, very carefully slewing around to look at Miri. "Nice shot." He adds, flashing her a pained smile.

[Centaur Hero]

Mirielye

"Aiden!" Miri yells as she sees him step back, but at the same time she realizes that with his movement, she has the opening she needs to fire at this elf who calls himself "Willie." "What kind of elf name is that, anyway?" she wonders to herself, as she takes a deep breath and lets an arrow fly.


Attack: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]


True to his name, Quick Willie nimbly dives out of the way.

[evyldead]

Niomi

"Keep your guard up Aiden, don't let them think you're weak. Stand your ground.
Niomi tumble's by Willie so she gets in position for a flank for Aiden.

[roll0]

[roll1]

[roll2]

[evyldead]

Sorry forgot sneak attack for flanking [roll0]

[Centaur Hero]

Sorry forgot sneak attack for flanking [roll0]

Again as swift as a cat, he dodges the attack, while keeping an eye on Aiden.

[Sikario]

Marcus

Once Marcus has made sure the driver that is paying him is under cover, he joins Aiden at the front line of their little skirmish. "What are you people doing standing here?! Run to the forest or take cover? We are going to end with more holes than a cheese!"

While saying the last part he notices the blood on Aiden and decides to help him. "Let me take care of that, and let's get ready to go into close combat with that archers." he sais, more serious and reasured now.
Marcus puts a hand on Aiden's shoulder and mutter a healing spell.

[roll0]

Seriously guys, what are we doing spending so much time in the middle of the road with a single enemy? we should be on the woods already!

[Centaur Hero]

The wagon driver says, "I ain't hidin from nothin sonnymilad!. He then pulls out his crossbow, and loads a bolt to it. And fires randomly into the woods. You all here a loud squeeky voice shout "AhHH!!!! Me arse!!!!!!!" Willie then screams "Abbott!!! You bastards Killed Abbott!!!! Don't worry lil buddy, I'm coming for you!" And without thought of himself, he runs into the woods Screaming his worry about his dear friend.

Attack of opportunity from Aiden and Niomi if they wish.

[Lady Moreta]

Aiden

"Thank you, friend" he murmurs, flexing his arm. It's not perfect, but it's better than it was and at least it doesn't hurt any more. His head snaps up and his expression becomes baffled as the attacking bandit abruptly changes direction and sprints back to the forest. "We may not be needed after all," he says dryly.

Aiden moves his weapon back to his sword hand, and quietly fingers his holy symbol with the other.

Detect Evil on dear Willie, provided he's still in range. I seriously doubt it, but Aiden has no ranged weapon, nor any desire to use one, so he might as well make sure.

[Centaur Hero]

As Aiden uses his inate ability to judge someones moral compas, you deside he has no evil aura about him.

[Lady Moreta]

Aiden

"As I thought," Aiden mutters, more to himself than anyone else, as he drops the holy symbol to hang around his neck again. "Our friend there is not evil, though I hardly needed any special abilities to tell that" he adds, self-consciously, feeling like he's overreacting more than a little.

[Centaur Hero]

After a few seconds passes, you all hear the sounds of a hobbit cursing loudly about being shot in the rump. " I thought we agreed you were the muscle Willie! So why am I the one with a feathered behind!!??!!??"

Willie replies, "I thought you were dead you miserable old halfling, This is just a flesh wound." He then shouts. "Kindly folks of the road, could we perhaps hold off on our duel while I patch up Abbott here? I'll gladly relieve you of your heavy burdens afterwards. If you can wait, I can as well.

"You darned arrogant elf, this was a botch, I'm never working with you again!!! Amatuer!" Abbott replies.

"Awe you don't mean it Abe....."

[Lady Moreta]

Aiden

"This is ridiculous," Aiden says in exasperation. He lifts sword and shield and looks to Marcus next to him. "Shall we?" He asks. "Miri, cover us if you would be so kind."

Obviously, he is suggesting to Marcus that they march themselves on over there and sort these people out.

[Seeress of Kell]

Mirielye

"No problem, Aiden," Miri says, readying another arrow. She also peers intently into the bushes, to see if she can find any of the other archers. "Well-hidden little buggers, they are," she mutters.


Including +2 racial bonus to spot: [roll0]

[Felhammer]

NATHANIEL

The halfling grows red-faced as he watches the rogue rush off to aid his wounded friend in the bramble, "YOU DARE ask for parlay after you assaulted us on the road? You scoundrel! You scallywag! You scum! I will do more than melt your face off for this insult. A man does not tend to the weak and injured mid-battle. A man fights to the bitter end, come what may!"

[Sikario]

Marcus

He answers Aiden's question with a nod and starts marching "Let's figure out what is exactly happening here."

The halfling looks beligerant to an extreme for Marcus. "Calm down halfling, maybe this is not what it seems. It's not very nice to menace people about massacre." Marcus frowns watching the halfling about to explode. "This guy sure has a short fuse."

I seathe my weapon too.

[evyldead]

Niomi

Niomi stays close to Aiden and Marcus as they go to the brush "Why don't we hurry up and go while they are busy?

[Centaur Hero]

As the group approaches the slightly comical scene, you see a halfling, with an arrow firmly planted in the left butt cheek. Willie tugs on the arrow for a second and Abbott screams, "OWCH! leave it alone you derned barbarian." As you get closer, you see the wierdest looking contraption, sort of like a ballista that shoots a dozen arrows at once. Only it looks like it was made by a madman. Gears and wires everywhere.

[evyldead]

Niomi

Niomi looks at this contraption and looks at the halfling that she is assuming operates it "Yanno, with your skills at making fancy contraptions we could use you on our team. Instead of you guys always fighting for food and attack poor innocent people. And you wont get an arrow in your bottom. So what do you say? Quit this fighting and possibly join us or keep fighting us and well its not going to end well. Niomi nudges the two people in front of her to try and get their help on this if they get what the nudge was for.

[roll0]

[Centaur Hero]

They appear to be unmoved by Niomi's words. However, Abbott does keep talking about how he is done working with Willie.

[Felhammer]

NATHANIEL

The warmage bursts out laughing when he sees the contraption, "You do not have an army!? You cunning little scoundrels! I like the cut of your jib." After a few moments the halfling points his finger at the device and coolly states, "How many people have you robbed? How many have you killed? Give me one good reason why I should NOT destroy your ballista?"

[evyldead]

Niomi

Niomi steps in front the balista and puts Nathaniel's hand down "The fight is over. If you destroy this one he will make another, he probably has more stashed somewhere so destroying this wont make a difference. And the innocents that are dead by there hand are in the past, let him redo his wrongs to make them right. No reason for brash decisions to be made. Now halfling if your done with willie here why not come with us. Stop your life of killing innocents and maybe go and be an adventurer like us. Help us even. Niomi's choice of action is to hopefully get the attention of the halfliing to join us.

[Centaur Hero]

Willie replies to those questions, "We have never killed anyone! You were the first people who didn't give up after the hail of arrows. Besides, if we did do any real damage to anyone I just give them one of these after. Speaking of which, I feel I owe you one Sir." He then hands a potion to Aiden. "Though, if you moved a little quicker my sword never would have struck you.

Abbott says, "I won't be leaving with any of you, blast all of ya! If I leave Willie here alive it will be better than he deserves, if he can't win agains you lot, especially with the help of my machine, he ain't worth his salt."

Willie appears very hurt by those words, and Abbott gathers up his belongings, "Do what you like with the Manticore machine, I am cleansing myself of it and Willie. He then begins limping his way off into the forrest. Leaving a sobbing Willie in his wake.

[Felhammer]

NATHANIEL

These men are brigands. They stole from passersby, perhaps even impoverishing them. Do not romanticize their dirty thievery, Niomi. They are bandits, nothing more, nothing less. They deserve to be hung but... I shall acquiesce to stay my hand if they agree to come to Bristle with us and be judged by an impartial representative of the law. We shall take this device with us as proof of their devious ingenuity." Nathaniel looks at the "Manticore machine" once more then states, "Perhaps they can broker a deal to accept indentured servitude rather than the gallows if they agree to create such devices for the Lord of Bristle."

As Abbott walks off, Nathaniel holds up his hand and commands, "Stop! You are under arrest for banditry! I do not wish to kill you but I will not hesitate if you force my hand."

[Sikario]

Marcus

Marcus steps between both halflings. "With what authority do you arrest this person? As far as I know, you are a mercenary, a wagon guard. And there are 6 of us here." Marcus points at the potion Willie just gave to Aiden "And they are not assasins, they are rascals! He even apologized and gave healing to Aiden!"
Nathaniel's actions touch a sensible string on Marcus, he remembers the indoctrination recived on the Temple about good and bad, law and wrong, how they all feel they are the only bearers of truth.

"You are far too fast to judge and condemn halfling, not to mention the anger you showed just a minute ago. For me, this men have nothing to do with our current job. We get paid to protect the wagon, we did. It's over." Marcus holds his ground, not feeling much empathy for the bandits, but even less for tyranical law enforcement.

[evyldead]

Niomi

"Thank you marcus for showing some kind of mercy." Niomi walks over to Nathaniel, "Don't be so hasty for actions."

[Felhammer]

NATHANIEL

The halfling sneers at Marcus and says in an inflated voice, "Let the lout leave. He won't bother another soul because his blood is the color of piss. He is a worthless waste of flesh."

Looking down tat the weeping brigand, Nathaniel kicks some dirt onto the lad's shoes and says, "Stop your sobbing. If you're old enough to rob a wagon then you're old enough to know it is unseemly for a man to cry."

[Centaur Hero]

Willie, stands up, straitens himself, and assumes an almost dignified stance. "If you wish to dance the dance little man, I am more than game. Have you never felt the pang of guilt as you let down your mentor? Have you never felt the sadness of losing a friend. If the answer in no, then perhaps it's because no one ever gave you the time of day. Now, if Bristle is where you are heading, I can escourt you there. My uncle runs an inn in town, although I would recommend you stay at the other inn in town. My uncles establishment is less than savory. As for the robbery, I myself have never killed a man, nor seriously harmed one. I rarely even actually kept anything that I could have stolen. Redwyne village is a boom town, filled with gold from the stream. Most of the rich men there trade with Bristle, and THAT is who we actually rob. We also donate a good amount to the local soup shops to feed the poor. You know not of the greed of that village. We saw a heavily guarded wagon and assumed it was from there with a large gold shipment. I do not harm honest traders."

Upon hearing his testimony that driver agrees to let Willie tag along. "No real harm done young sunnymilad!"

[Seeress of Kell]

Miri lowers her bow, looking a bit shocked at this turn of events. "Did this really just happen?" she says to Aiden. "We have no idea whether or not we can trust this guy. What if he's lying? I just have a strange feeling..."


Let's try an untrained skill check. No ranks in it, but I get a +3 from WIS.

I actually posted this (accidentally) in the Tavern first - I had both threads open in separate tabs and just hit reply in the wrong window. My original roll there was a 12, but I'll roll again anyway. Feel free to just use the original 12. (And watch me get something awesome now that I said just use the 12. :smalltongue:)

[roll0]

[evyldead]

Niomi

Niomi gets a half smile kind of a smirk to what willie has said. "the poor rob the rich. How original. I'd say its kind of fair as long as you are doing what you say your doing.

[Felhammer]

NATHANIEL

The halfling is cut deep by the brigand's words for he had recently lost the trust and companionship of a mentor. Though Nathaniel does not show it, he is very much torn up by the deluge of bad memories that flood into his mind. His mood souring, he bluntly states, "Mr. Willie, you will walk three paces in front of me. I do not trust you, even if you claim to be some kind of hero to the poor."

[Kimino394]

Sellestrian Cellebrindal

"Not all brigands are evil.. That does not make them savory. They tried to rob the caravan, one way or another.. " Sellestrian mutters, as usual, to himself, while following the group along into the brush. "If one was assaulted and badly beaten on the streets by a gang of thieves, simply because the thieves were hungry, not malicious, would the guards, along with said ones friends not be obligated to hunt down these thieves and return the favor?" continues the mumbling.

Upon arriving at the offending pair, Sellestrian felt his jaw slide down 'till his mouth was open in a rather unsightly way, if only a moment. THESE are the bandits? These two idiots? he thought to himself. The amusement building up inside of him was short lived, however, as Niomi mentioned the brigands joining them. "Are you daft, woman? Failed at their task though they may have done, these two are still criminals! We are being payed to defend the caravan from their ilk, not play bossum-buddy." he states with a mixture of surprise and irritation, perhaps the first time in the trip where he had deigned to directly speak to any of the other members.

As the conversation continues and Nathanial makes to halt Abbott, Sellestrian taps his rapier against his hip with a nod, turning to Marcus as he attempts stop the Warmages action, "If there arrow had pierced someone's face, young human? What then? Would an apology and quaff of healing draught suffice to make up with the dead? No, I think not. " he shakes his head condescendingly at the "bandits" as he continues, "We may not be authority, but we have full right to take them to those with authority to decide their fate."

As Willie gives his sob story, Sellestrian gets ready to attempt to tear it apart, however, as the driver suddenly lets the "brigand" tag along, his mouth falls open yet again. "This is some sort of drab, badly concocted joke, isn't it? Bah" he mutters to himself. At least the halfling intends to keep an eye on him. he thought to himself, before sheathing his rapier and beginning to walk back to the caravan, slowly, not waiting for the others. Idiots.

[Centaur Hero]

As the company begins moving out, with the two mages watching Willie like a hawk, the caravan driver questions young Willie about the recent local events, saying "I only come to this backwater once or twice a decade, I'm sure little has changed, but it will be good to know of any, and what is this Redwyne village I keep hearing about?"

Willie replies. "Well, five years ago or so, a group of adventurers were commisoned to clear the road north of town of Ankegs. Well, come to find out, a dragon had destroyed a dam up where Redwyne village now lays, forcing the ankegs to find new territories. When they figured that out, they led a group of twenty or so workers and militia up to the dam to repair it. While there they discovered that the dragon did it at the behest of a vampire, who knew that there was gold built up in the stream, and knowing the greed of dragons, convinced him to do it. Hoping to leave the town of Bristle free of some of it's defenders. When the adventurers discovered this foul plot they, along with Sir Redwyne raced back to town, just ahead of the invading armies, but not before hennigans stead fell, that's the farming community west of Bristle. The young hero's saved lord Dunwell from being devoured by the dragon, and fought off the army of orcs and undead almost single handedly, but lord Dunwell eventually died of his wounds, but not before awarding the saviors of Bristle. Lady Alyssia Martell, a mighty Paladin of Heironious, and already a family friend of Lord Dunwell, was given the lordship itself, since Dunwell had no living kin, and that is who currently runs Bristle county, although, land barrons have been buying up property from impoverished farmers, and causing her a lot of problems. These are the men I prefer to rob. Anyways, she is in charge, and the town has prospered greatly under her leadership."

The wagon driver listens intently, and towards the end of the tale his jaw drops. "Thats quite a story lad, and all that in this backwoods town?

[evyldead]

Niomi

Niomi listens in on the story Willie has told. "All that happened and no surrounding town came to help against this? Although that hero has saved you single handedly, which is remarkable. Boy aren't you guys glad you had him by your side." Niomi interested was peeked at the end of that story. "So these land barons, why are they buying up these farmers land? why Isn't the queen stepping in?

[Centaur Hero]

Niomi

Niomi listens in on the story Willie has told. "All that happened and no surrounding town came to help against this? Although that hero has saved you single handedly, which is remarkable. Boy aren't you guys glad you had him by your side." Niomi interested was peeked at the end of that story. "So these land barons, why are they buying up these farmers land? why Isn't the queen stepping in?

"You just made the trip from the capital, by the time the queen could have mustered a relief force, we would have all been dead or undead. Also, we don't even see tax collecters from the capital but once a decade when the royal coffers are light. Lady Alyssia can do nothing against the land barrons because technically they are doing everything legal." The wagon driver nods his agreence.

[evyldead]

"You just made the trip from the capital, by the time the queen could have mustered a relief force, we would have all been dead or undead. Also, we don't even see tax collecters from the capital but once a decade when the royal coffers are light. Lady Alyssia can do nothing against the land barrons because technically they are doing everything legal." The wagon driver nods his agreence.

Niomi

"Is there anything we can do to stop this?" Niomi's interest is even more peeked since she can possibly help these people. "their must be something their doing illegal."

[Centaur Hero]

Niomi

"Is there anything we can do to stop this?" Niomi's interest is even more peeked since she can possibly help these people. "their must be something their doing illegal."

"I am sure they are, she just can't prove it yet.

[evyldead]

Niomi

"Have you been able to find anything on that? Or are you just taking money from them?

[Lady Moreta]

Aiden

"I don't think he's lying," Aiden says, speaking slowly and staring intently at Willie. He is feeling just a little shell-shocked himself. Everything had moved so quickly and before he could even blink it appeared to be all over. "If he is lying, he is still surrounded, and I think Master Shepherd will be more than willing to ensure any hijinks are doomed to fail." Aiden's lip curls up in an attempt at a smile, 'hijinks doomed to fail' was a favourite line of his father's, and right now Aiden wished more than anything that his father was there.

Aiden listens intently to Willie's story as they walk, he has in fact, heard of Lady Martell and as such, is inclined to believe the story.

"What sort of problems?" He asks, curiosity getting the better of him.


Sense Motive: [roll0] - is young Willie telling the truth?

Also:

I actually posted this (accidentally) in the Tavern first - I had both threads open in separate tabs and just hit reply in the wrong window.

You did what in the Tavern? Oh wait, you mean this Tavern, nott our Tavern. Geez this is confusing me.

[Centaur Hero]

Willie replies to all the questions, "No, I havn't seen anything illegal, as far as I know, they are just really good at beurocracy. They mostly just refuse to let anyone use any portion of their lands for hunting, or fishing or anything. They also rent back the land to the impoverished farmers, who now have no place to go, and usually they end up owing more and more money to these people every passing day. There is one in particular, name Grinwell, Lawrence Grinwell. Seems like quite a nice fellow, rich and haughty to be sure, sly and fake as a snake, I would watch out for him, people have gone missing lately, and convieniently, after a misunderstanding with this man. No evidence has turned up anything though. He came from the south after he heard about the gold rush in Redwyne village. At first he bought plots of land along the river, now he buys up every piece of land he can."

The wagon driver exclaims. "Here we are lads, Bristle at last." And before you, popping out in the distance, is a walled city, conciderably smaller than the capital, but still bigger then any accounts led you to believe. "I can't believe a wall has been put up"

Willie responds, "Lady Alyssia commisioned the dwarves of the area to oversee it's construction, never again will we be caught unprepared." A smile of satisfaction crosses his face as he looks upon it.

[Lady Moreta]

Aiden

Aiden frowns at Willie's words. He is not exactly sure of the laws, but while he and his immediate family have always lived in the capital, he knows his family own farmland outside, and he knows his parents would never treat their tennents the way these people appear to be treated.

"This is unsettling news" he says. "No landlord should treat their tennents this way."

[Felhammer]

NATHANIEL

The halfling follows Willie and watches him like an eagle-eye hawk. He listens intently, as intelligence on the territory the territory they are headed into is very important but the warmage does not go so fa as to trust the brigand, for he would say anything to woo the fainthearted in the party.

[Centaur Hero]

As the wagon gets up to the gate, which still has the smell of fresh grease about it, the wagon stops, and a guard comes out to inspect the goods in the wagon. Then charges a tax of one silver piece as a toll, which he takes, and begins an entry in his log. Then, after you all make it inside, the driver gives each of you a purse containing 15gp, and bids you all farewell, and he makes his way down the road towards an open market at the town square.

"Anyone want a tour of the town?" Asks Willie.

[evyldead]

Niomi steps up, "Sure Willie, I would love a tour of the town. As long as the party is okay with that since we don't know our way yet. And maybe you can even tell me more on this Lawrence Grinwell and the missing people.

[Centaur Hero]

"Not much more to tell about him. Up hear on the left we have the Elegent noble, a fine clothes store. On the right we have Master Rastiliers tower, he lives in the upper stories, but the bottom floor is a shop where he sells his items. And up here at the center of town is the traders market, where anyone can peddle their wares as long as they pay taxes. The Dragons claw, the finest smithy around, run by a half orc named Dench, great weapons there. And the two inn's one is run by my uncle, The full moon inn, if your looking for cheap drinks and fights, its the place to be. The other is the Sleepy Giant inn, a very reputable inn, probably where your wagon driver will stay. The road on the left has Pauls provisions, general store, Mordliffs guide service, where you can hire on a guide. Also there is Herberts farming supplies. As well as Ivy manor, Glorfnogs mansion, and an abandoned mansion, all privately owned. The road to the right has the mayors house, the Martell estate, where some of lady Allysias family lives. The town barracks, Hellens apothacary, where you can buy herbs and such. The church of Pelor, Walt's beast trader's, the sherrif and mayors office. Also glassover pond, where local kids fish and swim. Strait ahead is the Golden collar kennels, where the world famous Bristle mastiffs, and hounds are bred. And there are guardposts at each of the four gates out of town. On the hillside southwest of town lies Lady Martells keep. The road west goes to Hennigans stead, East to Felgrove, where Dwarves, Gnomes and even a few goblins harvest lumber, The south road heads all the way to the great desert, and North leads back where you came from, the capital and Redwyne village. Now I will be off, see if I can patch things up with Abbott, Best of luck to you all." With that quick Willie takes off.

Anywhere you all would like to go?

[Sikario]

Marcus

Saying goodbye to Willie and telling him to pick his objective better, Marcus proposes the group to lead to an Inn. "I think we should first get a room rented, so we don't find ourselves without a place to sleep later."
"The Full Moon looks like a cheap place, and maybe we can bargain with Willie's uncle if we mention him." Marcus then realizes the picture before him. A group of completelly different people, barely united by the need of money, with little skill for more honourable jobs.
"Say, I just realized we handled that situation quite well. Nobody panicked, no one flee, and most showed promissing combat skills. Some more violent than other." sais Marcus smiling at Nathaniel.
"Would it be too crazy if I asked you to stay together a while longer? I'm sure somewhere in Bristle is job for our kind. And I would preffer to share benefits with you, as I already know you are capable, instead of compiting with you for the same jobs." He can read on the other's eyes how little trust they had in him. He was too young to be talking to them on equal terms. "Or don't. We could all split up right now. I just thought it would be nice to have people arround that I knew."
Marcus was a little ashamed for asking.

If anyone has a better idea to make the group actually form a party, speak up. I think right now our "party" has very thin links, so a little effort and good ideas for actually have a reason to be together would be nice. :smallsmile:
I like when parties have a reason to start and continue being together. Not just because.

[Lady Moreta]

Aiden

Aiden smiles slightly at Marcus' plea for their oddball group to stick together. Marcus is clearly still in his teens and Aiden isn't so far removed from that age that he's forgotten what it feels like. Besides, he knows no one here but them, even Miri, whom he feels closer to than the others, is still more an aquaintance than friend. And he likes Marcus, despite being young, he didn't hesitate to step up and stand beside Aiden when there was fighting to be done. The fact that the fighting never eventuated is beside the point. And Aiden is not unaware of his own inexperience; he did not handle the situation with Willie the way it should have been, the way his father would have.

"I agree with Marcus, it would be worth sticking together for a time at least. Perhaps there is something we can do to help the farmers here. Besides," he adds with a grin. "We all have to sleep sometime. Though, did not even Quick Willie warn us against his cousin's inn? Perhaps we would be wiser to seek out the other inn in town."

[Seeress of Kell]

Mirielye

"For what it's worth, I'm inclined to agree that we should stick together - at least we are all familiar faces to one another, in a place where none of us knows anyone else." She glances at Aiden. "As far as inns go, I'd prefer to spend a little more for something cleaner and safer, but I find it odd that Willie would warn us off his uncle's inn that way - even if we don't stay there, maybe we should investigate the place."

[Lady Moreta]

Aiden

"It could simply be Willie knows his cousin waters the ale." Aiden said dryly. "Any such investigation should be undertaken by the town guard. I don't know about here, but at home, they tend to be a little - cranky, when private citizens overstep their boundaries."

Wait, is the inn run by Willie's uncle or his cousin? now I'm confused :smallconfused:

And I have ants crawling all over me!! :smallfurious:

[Felhammer]

NATHANIEL

The halfling growls, I do not trust this "Quick Willie." Any where he says to stay should be taken as a potential ploy to once more rob us of our belongings.

[Kimino394]

Sellestrian Cellebrindal"

A disgrace to elven kind.. That fool should have been handed to the guards without delay." Sellestrian mutters to himself. He could not help but wonder when it became custom to allow brigands to walk free and, not only that, but also to take advice from them. No, this was too strange. At least he got payed.

While not commenting on the suggestion of sticking together, Sellestrian could not help but agree with the notion. He certainly did not have the magic to single-handedly protect himself in another encounter.. No, shields of flesh would be most useful. "Perhaps asking a guard what inn would be most competent is a good idea." he states plainly, out of the blue.

[Centaur Hero]

Sellestrian Cellebrindal"

A disgrace to elven kind.. That fool should have been handed to the guards without delay." Sellestrian mutters to himself. He could not help but wonder when it became custom to allow brigands to walk free and, not only that, but also to take advice from them. No, this was too strange. At least he got payed.

While not commenting on the suggestion of sticking together, Sellestrian could not help but agree with the notion. He certainly did not have the magic to single-handedly protect himself in another encounter.. No, shields of flesh would be most useful. "Perhaps asking a guard what inn would be most competent is a good idea." he states plainly, out of the blue.

Any local guard will tell you that the Sleepy giant be the best around, although, there be one in hennigans stead that makes the BEST Salmon pie!

[Seeress of Kell]

Mirielye

"See there, Nathaniel? Are you happy? Even the guards say we should steer clear of Willie's uncle's inn. I still smell something fishy, though. I think we need to look into the inn." Miri wonders if anyone is even going to listen to her. Her inexperience has to be fairly obvious. Then she remembers Aiden didn't like the idea of investigating things, because it might step on the toes of the local guards. "Paladins," she thinks to herself with a sigh. "Aiden, if whoever goes in promises not to intervene if they see anything suspicious, but rather will alert the guards, will that satisfy you?" "Of course, this all supposes the guards aren't somehow *involved* with whatever is going on..." Miri thinks to herself, chewing on her lip.

[Lady Moreta]

Aiden

Aiden looks around the street, realising for the first time what an odd sight they must be, a mismatched group of people and races, all standing around arguing in the middle of the street. Action, my boy Aiden's father's words roll around in his head once more. It's the only way to get things done.

"Geez Dad, I thought you were leaving me alone for this one," Aiden mutters under his breath. Clearly though, some action needs to be taken, even if it's only to get them off the streets before people start staring.

"If you're sure Miri," he says finally, trying to keep resignation out of his tone. "I think I might be a tad conspicuous though, why don't you and some of the others go in and I'll... keep watch outside." He's not a hundred percent sure there is anything wrong here, save that Willie knows his cousin (or is it his uncle, Miri keeps saying uncle) waters the ale or somesuch. On the other hand, Miri is determined, and he doesn't want to ruin the closest thing he has to a friendship in this town.

[Seeress of Kell]

Mirielye

Miri saw that Aiden was entirely uncomfortable with the idea. "It'll be okay, Aiden. If it turns out it's nothing more sinister than watered down ale, we'll leave without a word and we'll all go on our way. But it's probably better to be sure before we leave it behind us. I would hate to know that someone got hurt because we didn't take a few minutes to see what was going on." She offered him a small smile, hoping that her appeal would help ease his mind about what they were about to do.

"I don't think we all need to go. Maybe two or three at the most. I vote myself, Niomi, and Nathaniel."

I nominated the three with the highest Charisma - aside from Aiden, as he's already said he wants to wait outside - because we'll be the best suited to Gather Information. Feel free to argue it out amongst yourselves :smalltongue:

[Sikario]

Marcus

"Sounds good to me. I'll wait outside with Aiden in case something actually happens. But I think you are all exagerating the situation. Every town has a "good" inn and a "bad" inn." Marcus just wants to spend as little gold as possible. He can handle worse service.

[evyldead]

Niomi

Niomi steps up, "I'll go with you to check out this in. I'll sneak around upstairs to the basement to try and find anything wrong. just keep the barkeep busy an out of my way, just in case I don't get caught."

[Felhammer]

NATHANIEL

Nathaniel was never the best at scouting, he always delegated such duties to other, more specialized personnel. Today would be no different. Nodding at Mirielye, the halfling states, "I look forward to your report soldier."

[Centaur Hero]

Inside the Halfmoon inn, you all see a bunch of drunkards, and ne'er do wells. A greasy looking half elf named Howland with a vaguely ratlike face, curtly asks what he can get for you. "Beer, Brandy, Whiskey, or hit the road." The place has an odor of unwashed bodies and stale wine, what you see of the stew people are eating is mainly broth, with a couple pieces of carrot in it. "I's two silver fer a room fer ta night, er ya can stay in the common room after closin' for one."

Outside, the rest of you see people going about their business as usual, mostly humans, with the occasional halfling, or dwarf, however, as the minutes go by, you feel the ground shaking, and a Cloud giant, a Storm Giant, and a Stone giant walk passed you. The stone giant is apparently not convinced that they needed to let other types of giants join the Bristle defence council, seeing as how the evil giants were part of the reason the council existed in the first place.

To anyone outside-

Knowlege local to see if you know what they are talking about.

To anyone inside-

Knowlege religion to notice something.

[Lady Moreta]

Aiden

Aiden looks blankly astonished as the giants go by, discussing the Bristle Council apparently. He stares after them, eventually realising his mouth is hanging open and snapping it shut.

"Uh, does anyone know what that was all about?" He asks

Don't have knowledge local. Do have knowledge religion however, shoulda gone into the inn :smallamused:

[Seeress of Kell]

Mirielye

"Beer all around," Miri says, hoping no one takes offense, but knowing that they all need to keep their wits about them. "No room, just the drinks." She takes a seat at the bar, trying to look around without being too obvious about it.

Yes, Aiden, you should've came in. Not only do you have Knowledge religion, you've got the highest Charisma in the party and the best chance of succeeding at even an untrained Gather Information check. :smalltongue:

[Felhammer]

NATHANIEL

The halfling leans against the outer wall of the tavern and keeps an eye on who comes and who goes, looking for any patterns or anything noteworthy. Mostly he just bides his time until his new found recruits leave the tavern and report in.

[Sikario]

Marcus

Outside the tavern

Marcus looks astonished as the giants casually walk by. Discussing politics no less. "I- I don't know what were they talking about Aiden, but- It's the first time I see giants, even rarer for me to see them together. I thought they hated each other and that they were brustish. I'm ashamed how little I know about them."
When Marcus finally turns his head to look at Aiden, he can't control a chuckle. "Heh! At least I'm not the only one surprised."

Watching Aiden behaving "normal" encourages Marcus to speak to him closely. "I wanted to ask you something Aiden. Earlier, when Willie was running to aid his friend, you used your holy symbol to decide wether Willie was evil or not." Marcus makes a pause, casually watching passersby as he talks.
"Was it you who decided that, or Pelor? I couldn't help it but think that one doesn't need a god to decide that. Niomi, Mirial- Mirily- however it's pronunced, and I, decided that he wasn't suspicious or evil without aid. What if Pelor decided he was evil? Maybe because he worshipped a god against his interests? Would you have respected our opinion about him being a good man or would you have been convinced he was not, despite everyone else's opinion? Aren't you worried about being used to establish a concept of evil that fits your god's agenda?" Marcus doesn't look Aiden directly while asking. He has used this strategy before when asking delicate issues. If the person gets offended, he just play it cool and say it was small talk, or joking, or something that he heard from other guy.
But it was something that was in his head since the encounter. "What if a paladin thinks someone is not evil but his god does?"

[evyldead]

Niomi

Niomi looks around but in doing so she does it stealth-fully so no one notices her.

[roll0] To notice anything odd about the inside and/or people

[roll1] For the check you have want us to make.

[Lady Moreta]

Aiden

"Just call her 'Miri'", he said, stalling for time by answering the easier question first. "I can't pronounce her name either and I speak Elven." Aiden stares ahead, occassionally turning his eyes from side to side, looking for anyone out of place, while being painfully aware that the only one out of place, was himself. He was grateful Marcus wasn't looking at him, he didn't think he'd be able to have this conversation otherwise. He wasn't sure he wanted to have it at all, but he couldn't refuse to speak. Even as he thought it, he heard the voice of his first mentor in the Order, Brother Pereg, saying gently, 'Would you deny the truth to one who seeks it?' Aiden shifts his shoulders slightly, sending the links of his chain shirt clinking.

"It is... not that simple, Marcus. Recognising evil, I mean. The ability is not- there is no. It was taught to me in the Temple as just another sense; there is no sign that pops up over the head of an evil person, it's - well, it's a sense." He pauses, frowning, trying to find the best way to explain what he means. "It's like sight more than anything else," Aiden muses. "At least, it is for me. It's like half-seeing, half-feeling the presence of something. It's very hard to describe to someone who's never experienced it before. But well, that's not really what you asked, is it?" Aiden added, finally turning to look at Marcus and being struck by the unhappy, slightly nervous look on the young man's face. Again, Aiden reminded himself that Marcus was very young.

"Brother Pereg once said that the awareness of the presence of evil is a warning, not proof, or evidence, or something like that. What he meant is that sensing evil in someone doesn't mean that I then have the right to use violence, or -- anything else. Most people just assume paladins are out to fight the evil-doers, don't they?" He asks the last with a wry smile, but a certain amount of genuine curiosity. Aiden had been raised in the Temple and surrounded by its traditions his entire life, he was struggling to understand how paladins were seen in the 'real world'. "And well, just because I sense evil in someone, doesn't mean I should necessarily do anything about it. My father once said that sometimes, a paladin should in fact, do nothing." Aiden frowned again, he struggled with that now as much as he had at fifteen, when his father had first raised the issue. "If there is a man, perhaps even someone like Willie's uncle, if he turns out to be as bad as Miri thinks, who spreads lies and abuse about his neighbours - I think we would both agree that is an evil act. I would be able to sense that evil on them, but should I do anything about it? Is there in fact anything I can do, beyond verbal chastisement, and would that even help? My father always said that if I am to accuse anyone of evil deeds, then I must also have proof, beyond that which only I or another paladin could sense. Brother Pereg said it was to do with deeds over souls. The deed must be punished, the soul is to be redeemed."

Aiden rubbed his hand over the pommel of his sword, then raised it to scrub over his short beard, where his fingers found the chain of Pelor's holy symbol around his neck. He was trying to avoid this last question, he really didn't know how to answer it. The only thing he could think to do was to be honest, and not try to hide the fact that he didn't have all the answers.

"I hope I would always respect the opinions of those I am with," he said quietly. "I... well, I never really thought Willie was evil." He shot a sideways look at Marcus, before admitting the truth. "This is my first mission, outside the Temple and on my own. My father thought it was time I learned to stand on my own two feet, and learned to make my own decisions. I am... a little nervous. I suppose it would have been the same as the man who told lies - I cannot condemn a man with no evidence. In Willie's case, there was clear evidence he was stealing, so I suppose I would have at least insisted he be handed over to the proper authorities. But I don't really think there was cause to do more than that."

"Pelor... Pelor guides me, guides my head and my heart, but ultimately the decision is mine." Aiden stops talking abruptly, his face going slack. His own words have triggered a sudden realisation - that this is the point his father has been trying to make all along. "I- I trust Pelor, to guide me and show me what is right in His eyes. And because I trust Him, I believe that when he opens my eyes to see further than most can, that He is showing me an absolute truth, not an objective one. Evil is evil. Good is good." He shrugs lightly. "It's what we do with it that matters."

[spoiler]eeps, that was hard to write. I hope it's okay and not too wordy.

Pretty much all of that, I stole from here. (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?34312-Lessons-for-paladins-rules-discussion-disguised-as-prose) And as Seeress will probably have realised by now 'Brother Pereg' is Peregrine, my husband, who wrote what's in that link, and whom I quizzed earlier today about how to reply. I'm not a frigging paladin, I didn't know what to say![/url]

[Sikario]

Marcus

Outside the tavern

Marcus listens every word with interest. As Aiden speaks, he knows without a trace of doubt that he is being honest. Not just repeating what he has been told to say.
"This Brother Pereg you talk about sounds like a reasonable guy for a paladin. I'm glad to know his lessons taught you to be critical, and not an extremist." Marcus sais with a smile, relieved.
"I was concerned you were going to be one of those strick paladins with a stick up their arses." he jokes. "And it's good to know that you won't try to shove us your will down our throats, and instead, debate with us."

Marcus is happy to know Aiden is inexperienced too. He looks reliable, but better know he lacks experience when it comes to the real thing. It would not be good to trust anyone beyond their capabilities.
"I respect your opinion about good and evil, but I don't share it. Nothing is white or black in this world. People do things for the wrong reasons constantly, and the line blurs. I'm still trying to figure out if we can really trust gods." Marcus keeps his eyes on the sky for a second, and then on the street after his last statement. He doesn't want to know if it surprised Aiden or if he had a horrified look on his face. A cleric saying such a thing could be considered heretic by the more pious.

Marcus realizes that he might have said too much, and adds, just in case "That's why I'm wandering the land. Seeking spiritual enlightenment and answers. It's my first time adventuring too. So let's not die."

Marcus smiles at Aiden for a brief moment before staring at the street again, distracted on his own thougths.

I hope this wans't too serious or intense for the others. Everyone plays this game in a different way. If someone thought it was a broing read, please say so! Let's adapt our playstyles and have fun! :smallsmile:

[Lady Moreta]

Aiden

"I've met that kind of paladin," Aiden says dryly. "They're not pleasant people to be around. Then again, I've met plenty of people who aren't paladins who are exactly the same." He's smiling as he speaks, it's really quite - nice to find that he can be himself out here. That it's all right, and even welcomed, to admit he doesn't have all the answers. Though he is a bit startled when Marcus admits he's still trying to figure out if the gods are trustworthy.

"I think that's what Brother Pereg was trying to say," he muses thoughtfully. "About people doing things for the wrong reasons I mean. It's a bit of an extreme example, but what if I saw a man kill another person and I turned my senses on that man and saw that they were evil. That would certainly be enough to warrant taking them into custody, with force if necessary, but it doesn't stop there. And I have to be careful, after all, I don't know why the man killed the other person. Maybe someone was - I don't know, holding the man's child hostage and forced him to do the killing. It doesn't make the man innocent but it certainly warrants further investigation. I don't know," he mumbles, suddenly embarrassed. "I get carried away sometimes."

Aiden has gone bright red, thoroughly embarrassed by what his father called over-enthusiasm. 'Enthusiasm is one thing, over-enthusisam will get you killed.' He's draw from these thoughts by Marcus' suggestion that they not die, and he bursts out laughing.

"That, Marcus, is the best idea I've heard since I left home."

[Felhammer]

NATHANIEL

The halfling, who had been eavesdropping, casually interjects, "I've seen death, carnage, torture and war in my long years serving at Castle Coldridge. I can tell you this - people are nasty, disgusting and vile to the core. They try to hide it with morality and culture but deep down, they are vicious little animals."

[Lady Moreta]

Aiden

Aiden startles at Nathaniel's voice, he had been so engrossed in the conversation with Marcus, he'd completely forgotten the halfling was even there.

"I'm sorry you feel that way," he says, a little cautiously. He doesn't agree with Nathaniel's assessment, but suspects from his reaction to Willie that Nathaniel won't take it well. "I won't deny that some people can be and are exactly what you say. But I have known many who were nothing but kind and gentle and good. My mother for one..." Aiden's voice trails off, and it's clear from the far-away look in his eyes that his attention and memory have wandered.

[Centaur Hero]

Nothing else of note happens outside the Tavern.

On the inside, the half elf fills some dirty looking mugs, and fills them from a barrel. "Here's yer drinks." He says in a slightly rude fashion. It's not long however, before a couple of the more intimidating looking fellows begin to gather around the group of you.

"Looks like we got us some outsiders here fellers." Says one. "Where you lot from eh?"

[evyldead]

Niomi

Niomi looks at them both gives a half smirk We're from here and we're from there. Does it matter where WE are from, where are you guys from?

Spot check to see if I notice something of the symbol of the wererats on them [roll0]

[Centaur Hero]

Niomi

Niomi looks at them both gives a half smirk We're from here and we're from there. Does it matter where WE are from, where are you guys from?

Spot check to see if I notice something of the symbol of the wererats on them [roll0]

"We are from here, recon you aint, recon, we got enough people in this here town as it is, we anit needin 'fancy' capital lads around here. Eh boys?" To that a reply of raucus laughter and cheers rise from around the common room. "Perhaps it's time yall folks was movin on?"

A quick scan offers no visual evidence.

[evyldead]

"We are from here, recon you aint, recon, we got enough people in this here town as it is, we anit needin 'fancy' capital lads around here. Eh boys?" To that a reply of raucus laughter and cheers rise from around the common room. "Perhaps it's time yall folks was movin on?"

A quick scan offers no visual evidence.

Alrighty then


Niomi looks at these fine young men then looks at Miri "Miri dear would you go get our men outside I need to speak with them." Ignoring these men inside.

[Felhammer]

NATHANIEL

The halfling looks away from Aiden as he mentions his mother. Nathaniel's childhood was plagued by crippling poverty. A pang of regret courses through his veins as he thinks about how he never returned to his hometown and visited with his parents after he was recruited to the army in Castle Coldridge. Little point in it, thinks the halfling, the Castle is... No, was... He had to remind himself that he had been banished, cast out like a common dog... By his surrogate father no less... No... This was not the time or place for such thoughts. Nathaniel buries his past deep down in his psyche and returns his gaze to the passersby. He casually whispers, "We have differing views." to no one in particular.

[Seeress of Kell]

Mirielye

"You know, I think I will just nip outside for a moment," Miri says, nimbly and quickly zipping out the door (which she wisely had stayed close to when she took her seat at the bar) before any of the interlopers could grab her. When she got outside, she quickly spotted Aiden having what seemed to be an in-depth conversation with Marcus.

"Oi. Guys. We've got trouble. A group of thugs seem to want to pick on someone. I think y'all better come inside," she said.

[Felhammer]

NATHANIEL

The halfling flashes a grin as he rounds the corner and lunges into the building. Just before crossing the door jam he looks back and says, "I've been waiting for some action since that brigand attacked us! Let's go beat up some bullies!"

[Lady Moreta]

Aiden

Aiden snaps back to attention as Miri comes out, then lunges ineffectually after Nathaniel.

"We cannot simply barge our way in!" He hisses in frustration. "That would make us no bette than the bullies you're so keen to chastise." Either way, clearly letting Nathaniel loose on the inn is a bad idea. Aiden hurries in after him.

[Sikario]

Marcus

Marcus sighs. "Why can't you all just go out?" but before he could even ask Mirielye the details, Nathaniel and Aiden were already rushing in.
"Adventurers..." he thinks, remembering the stereotype.

"Miri, you go in, I'll go arround and find another entrance. Try to stop the fight!" Marcus starts running arround the building, looking for a secondary or kitchen door.

The plan is entereing the Inn/tavern from another spot so they don't associate me with the group, so in case things go wrong I can bring some surprise. But mainly, for controlling the outside ring of the fight, so nobody uses magic or ranged weapons or dirty tricks. Because, let's face it. Even if all the group wanted to talk their way out, we only need one violent little man to start a fight. :belkar:

[Centaur Hero]

Marcus

Marcus sighs. "Why can't you all just go out?" but before he could even ask Mirielye the details, Nathaniel and Aiden were already rushing in.
"Adventurers..." he thinks, remembering the stereotype.

"Miri, you go in, I'll go arround and find another entrance. Try to stop the fight!" Marcus starts running arround the building, looking for a secondary or kitchen door.

The plan is entereing the Inn/tavern from another spot so they don't associate me with the group, so in case things go wrong I can bring some surprise. But mainly, for controlling the outside ring of the fight, so nobody uses magic or ranged weapons or dirty tricks. Because, let's face it. Even if all the group wanted to talk their way out, we only need one violent little man to start a fight. :belkar:

You find a back door easily enough. Seems to be a door to the kitchen.

[Centaur Hero]

At the appearence of more people, the lads at the table all start laughing harder, including the bartender, who says simply, "You all best be off."
Another man shouts out, "Oh Limguitz!!!" A few seconds later, you see, rather hear and see a massive man walking down the stairs, which to you all, appears to be a human, only he is close to 8ft tall, and appears to wiegh close to 400lbs, with hardly any fat on him, to anyone looking closely, he also appears to have a ratlike face.

[Lady Moreta]

Aiden

"Pelor" Aiden breathed, eyes widening in disbelief. He was a big man. He knew he was a big man. Standing 6'4" since his teens, Aiden was used to towering over virtually everyone. Right now though? He felt very, very small. Hurrying forwards, he dropped a hand to Nathaniel's shoulder, stooping a little to reach it.

"I suggest we may have found the reason Willie recommended we avoid his uncle's tavern. I also suggest we leave. Now." Fighting because there was wrong that needed to be put right was one thing. Fighting because an elf he barely knew (if he was being honest) had insisted something was 'up' was something else entirely. Fighting that thing when nothing had actually happened, was just plain stupid.

[evyldead]

Niomi

Niomi kinda laughs and tries to hide it, and Niomi starts to walk toward the door and when she gets next to Aiden she says, "Rats these days, fine were gone. lets go guys no need to upset these poor creatures. I guess outsiders really aren't aloud. But do you know a man named Willie?" as Niomi looks at the Bar tender. Then Niomi whispers something in Aidens ear very very quite that not even a mouse can hear:smallwink:, "I want to see if his uncle knows anything with the land owner people."

[Sikario]

Marcus

Marcus opens the kitchen door carefully, not wanting to startle anyone. As soon as he does, he hears the laughter. "Oh boy."
He enters the kitchen and tries to go trough it without causing any trouble. Saying sorry to anyone he passes. "Sorry. Sorry. There was a group at the door and I could't enter. I just want to reach to my bed. Sorry."
If he is not allowed to pass. He will buy time making up stuff until enough time has passed to either think the group is out, or mayhem starts at the inn, at which point he will just bullrush there. If he can pass though the kitchen, then...
He enters the common room on the sly, cassualy, trying to not draw attention. Which was impossible, as all the people inside the common room was now focused on a giant man made of muscle, walking down the stairs.
The situation doesn't look good. The group is surrounded and all the tavernfolks look entertained. As if what is about to happen was a common distraction here.


-Corrected-
Sorry for splitting the party btw.
Should I made a quick Know. Religion check? [roll0]

[Felhammer]

NATHANIEL

The halfing swaggers into the tavern and confidently declares, "I am here to protect weak-kneed pansies from a big, fat bully." His eyes scan the room and quickly find the most ornery looking fellow. Nathaniel stares into the man's eyes and cool states, "Are you the big, fat bully who I hear deserves a good whooping? 'Cause if you are, then you are in for a world of hurt, boy.

Intimidate: [roll0]

[Centaur Hero]

Marcus

Marcus opens the kitchen door carefully, not wanting to startle anyone. As soon as he does, he hears the laughter. "Oh boy."
He enters the kitchen and tries to go trough it without causing any trouble. Saying sorry to anyone he passes. "Sorry. Sorry. There was a group at the door and I could't enter. I just want to reach to my bed. Sorry."
If he is not allowed to pass. He will buy time making up stuff until enough time has passed to either think the group is out, or mayhem starts at the inn, at which point he will just bullrush there. If he can pass though the kitchen, then...


So, when you open the back door. You see several women walking around preparing meals, several are quite pretty, and start making eyes at you. One comes up and introduces herself. "Hello there, might you be lost? Perhaps I could point you in the right direction... My name is Karness." Immidiately, what appeared to be a large woman when sitting, turned out to be a Titanic woman when standing up. Closer to Seven feet tall than six, and closing on what must be 450lbs stands, looming over you. "You ain't sposed to be here, now git back the way you came or I'll tan yer 'ide!" She growls brandishing a wooden spoon at you threateningly, "Or worse, I'll let Karness have er way wit cha." You notice a grin cut across her face at the last. Karness looks at you hungrily. Was her face slightly ratlike a few minutes ago? Perhaps you didn't notice much of her face...




NATHANIEL

The halfing swaggers into the tavern and confidently declares, "I am here to protect weak-kneed pansies from a big, fat bully." His eyes scan the room and quickly find the most ornery looking fellow. Nathaniel stares into the man's eyes and cool states, "Are you the big, fat bully who I hear deserves a good whooping? 'Cause if you are, then you are in for a world of hurt, boy.

Intimidate: [roll0]



A few of the patrons back away from the anry little man, but you notice a trend, any of the men with the vaguely ratlike faces, including the larger one, do not back down. "Little man make big trouble eh?" Rumbles the large one in a voice like thunder. "Maybe I teach you come in someones house with manners....Hehohoho." Another of the patrons says "So little man, what will it be? Fists only, or blunt objects perhaps? Knives? First blood only of course. Wouldn't want the town guards to be gettin involved would we? Would spoil the fun."


Niomi

Niomi kinda laughs and tries to hide it, and Niomi starts to walk toward the door and when she gets next to Aiden she says, "Rats these days, fine were gone. lets go guys no need to upset these poor creatures. I guess outsiders really aren't aloud. But do you know a man named Willie?" as Niomi looks at the Bar tender. Then Niomi whispers something in Aidens ear very very quite that not even a mouse can hear:smallwink:, "I want to see if his uncle knows anything with the land owner people."

At the mention of Willie the owner yells for silence and everyone of the patrons in the place, including the enormous one stand down, and although they still look ready to brawl, they back off visibly "Let the fine Elven made speak please! Now you were saying miss....?" You gather from his tone, he would like your name.

[evyldead]

At the mention of Willie the owner yells for silence and everyone of the patrons in the place, including the enormous one stand down, and although they still look ready to brawl, they back off visibly "Let the fine Elven made speak please! Now you were saying miss....?" You gather from his tone, he would like your name.

Niomi

Niomi smiles and says, "Now that's better. My name is Niomi Shengee of the Moon Elves, Willie said you were a good man so I came to ask some question about what Willie has said. Lawrence Grinwell, what do you know about him, but really all the land owners around here but mainly him. Willie told me something and he doesn't know much else. I came to you cuz I thought you can help me and my friend.

[Centaur Hero]

Niomi

Niomi smiles and says, "Now that's better. My name is Niomi Shengee of the Moon Elves, Willie said you were a good man so I came to ask some question about what Willie has said. Lawrence Grinwell, what do you know about him, but really all the land owners around here but mainly him. Willie told me something and he doesn't know much else. I came to you cuz I thought you can help me and my friend.

"So, my witless cousin has found himself a fine elf lady eh? Nice to meet you Niomi, Lawrence eh? Well thats a upjumped guttersnipe if ever there were one." He says to laughter from the patrons, except the big one, who doesn't seem to understand. "If exposed he would look even the most rougish of us look like a model citizins!" Another round of laughter in which he joins. "He be why we don't take kindly to you folks from the capital, people used to complain about us here in this building, being a bit, well lets say pushy, but he does it all legal like, and the damn 'Lady Martell' can't do nothin bout him. Codswallup if you ask me. If ya don't like em stealing lands and the like, OFF WITH IS 'EAD!!!!" The patrons give a rousing cry of 'Hear Hear'!

"Now, if ye don't mind, me an mine would appriciate it if ye went across the street to the more 'outlander' friendly inn." He waves off the rest of the people in the bar, and they grudgingly return to their ales. "This is the last time any of ye leave here without bumps an bruises. Begone!" And with that he returns to wiping the counter without another word.

[Seeress of Kell]

Mirielye

Unsure of what just happened, but glad for an opportunity to escape unscathed, Miri looks at the group. "I think we should probably take this opportunity to make ourselves scarce. We aren't likely to get another one, and I don't think we stand a chance against everyone here." "Although, I still think there's something really strange going on in this inn... it doesn't look like we're going to have a chance to figure out what it is. Oh well, my curiosity has a tendency to get me in trouble anyway..." she thought to herself, as she turned toward the door, hoping the others would follow.

[Felhammer]

NATHANIEL

The warmage gives the stink eye to the 400 pound man coming down the stairs but in cut off just before he was about to accept the bully's challenge. Nathaniel nods to the barkeep then returns his gaze to his muscular enemy, "The name is Nathaniel Shepherd. You best not forget that." The halfling then confidently strides out of the tavern, his head held high.

[Lady Moreta]

Aiden

Aiden is irritated and trying not to show it. They've gotten nothing from this ridiculous venture, but what they already knew. Lawrence Grinwell is up to no good and the common people are mad at those in charge for not doing anything about it. Or at least, for what they perceive as nothing being done.

"I believe that's what I said in the first place," he says in response to Miri, losing the fight with his irritation. He manages not to stomp out of the inn, but as soon as he does, he stops short and looks around. "Where is Marcus?"

Did you want those of us who entered later to make the knowledge religion check as well? If so, here's mine.
Knowledge Religion: [roll0]

[Sikario]

Marcus

Inside the kitchen


So, when you open the back door. You see several women walking around preparing meals, several are quite pretty, and start making eyes at you. One comes up and introduces herself. "Hello there, might you be lost? Perhaps I could point you in the right direction... My name is Karness." Immidiately, what appeared to be a large woman when sitting, turned out to be a Titanic woman when standing up. Closer to Seven feet tall than six, and closing on what must be 450lbs stands, looming over you. "You ain't sposed to be here, now git back the way you came or I'll tan yer 'ide!" She growls brandishing a wooden spoon at you threateningly, "Or worse, I'll let Karness have er way wit cha." You notice a grin cut across her face at the last. Karness looks at you hungrily. Was her face slightly ratlike a few minutes ago? Perhaps you didn't notice much of her face...

Marcus bows to the huge lady, a little surprised, but with the image of the giants he just saw outside, he thinks maybe they could be half-giants too. Specially in a place where pretty ladies abound. "This is probably a brothel at night."
"My apologies miladies, I did not want to cause trouble, just wanted to go into my bed without crossing the common room." he sais as he bows "But you are right, it was a mistake."

Marcus moves back to the main street, nervous. He wasn't prepared for that. "A huge lady hinting that the pretty one wanted to eat me, or worse... and what was that with her face?" he looks confused and aroushed as he reaches the main door, and he sees the group coming out.
"Where is Marcus?" he hears Aiden ask. "Here. Everything alright?"

[Centaur Hero]

The streets are full of people, and most give a wide berth around this small army gathered outside the Full moon. Diagonally across the street at the Sleepy giant, a large red headed man is sweeping the porch. Directly across the street you see a shop, and of course, the raucus from the open market nearby fills your ears. Dogs barking in the distance as they have since you entered town.

Where to next?

[evyldead]

"Willie said something about people diapering by his command, or something to that effect."Can you shed light on that as well? It is my last question then we leave. and ill pay you for the information and drink.

"That place was full of rats, the Wererat kind of rats. Niomi looks up looking for the moon. "Good people just feel bad that they became probably the worst kind of WERE-Anything. But I think they are hiding more than what they are saying."

[Centaur Hero]

"That place was full of rats, the Wererat kind of rats. Niomi looks up looking for the moon. "Good people just feel bad that they became probably the worst kind of WERE-Anything. But I think they are hiding more than what they are saying."[/QUOTE]

This is what's happening now, when you said the stuff in the tavern, you were ignored.

[Felhammer]

NATHANIEL

The halfling meanders over to the "good tavern" and walks right in the front door.

[Lady Moreta]

Aiden

Aiden breathes a sigh of relief as Marcus appears around the building and claps a hand to his shoulder briefly before turning back to Niomi.

"I for one would like to know why you and Miri are so convinced something is going on. Besides the obvious, I mean. I am trying to keep an open mind." He adds, with a sideways grin at Marcus. He knows people can be prickly around paladins sometimes and he wants the young man to know that Aiden was listening as well as talking. "I would also like to visit the church of Pelor at some point," he adds, "but right now we should probably follow Master Shepherd. I get the feeling he might cause trouble if he's left alone for too long.

[evyldead]

Aiden

Aiden breathes a sigh of relief as Marcus appears around the building and claps a hand to his shoulder briefly before turning back to Niomi.

"I for one would like to know why you and Miri are so convinced something is going on. Besides the obvious, I mean. I am trying to keep an open mind." He adds, with a sideways grin at Marcus. He knows people can be prickly around paladins sometimes and he wants the young man to know that Aiden was listening as well as talking. "I would also like to visit the church of Pelor at some point," he adds, "but right now we should probably follow Master Shepherd. I get the feeling he might cause trouble if he's left alone for too long.

Niomi looks at Aiden, "Those are Were-rats, what are they doing in a town. And what is so secret about that place that we can't even have a sit down."

[Lady Moreta]

Aiden

"Well, why wouldn't they be in a town? You said it yourself, people who've been turned into a were-anything are likely to stick together and not want outsiders poking their noses in. I phrased myself badly. Obviously there is something going on. But I don't understand why you seem to feel it has to be something bad." There, that was closer to what he meant to say. Aiden was trying not to let his frustrations spill over into his voice, it was himself he was frustrated with. And perhaps his teachers, for not explaining themselves better. Tactics and strategy had never been Aiden's strong point. Sure, he could generally tell if someone was lying to him, but he usually had a hard time figuring out why they were lying. Just another reason why I'd be better off at home. Less chance of me screwing up there.

[Centaur Hero]

The sleeping giant in seems the polar opposite of the Full moon. A great, round, burly looking man with a ginger beard smiles warmly as you enter. "Welcome to the sleeping giant! What can I do for you folks, I am almost full up, but perhaps three to a room or, I can always line some cotts up out here in the common, after it dies down for the night acorse. Or perhaps a warm meal and a nice ale to wash er down. Me wife has a pig roastin oot back rightnow, be ready in an hour or two." He gestures to a man that has to be his own son, because he appears a younger version of the older fellow, and he begins pushing a couple of chairs and tables together to make room for the whole group at one table. "Here you are" says the younger one. "I'm billy, and I will be happy to assist you if you need anything." And after his gaze lingering on Miri for a second longer than anyone else, and a blush seen clear through his ginger stubble, he walks back to a stool near the door, and fingers the cudgel at his side, while scanning the room, apparently making sure nothing is amiss.

[Felhammer]

NATHANIEL

The warmage nods curtly to the innkeeper, "I am Nathaniel Shepard and these," he motions to his new friends, "Are my companions. We will only require a single room, perhaps an extra cot to accommodate all of us. A nice haunch of pork would do me well after my long journey. Pray tell, Master Billy, how would one ensure my companions and I get the finest cut of the pig? Our bellies are laughably empty and I only request the best for those under my comman... Or rather, my friends." After a moment or two, Nathaniel plucks five silver pieces from his coin purse and quietly slides them over to Billy. With a wink and a smile he says, "The finest cuts. I expect nothing less than the best."

[Lady Moreta]

Aiden

Aiden's lips twitch a little at Nathaniel's slip, clearly the halfling is used to being in command. Aiden is a little curious about that, he certainly has a masterful air, and Aiden would like to talk to him, ask him about what it's like. But before he does that, he wants to visit the church (or was it a temple?) of Pelor Willie had mentioned. And since dinner won't be ready for an hour...

"Food will be welcome," he smiles. "But as you say it won't be ready for some time, I think I will visit the church of Pelor first." He turns, somewhat hesitantly to his new companions. "Would anyone care to accompany me?"

[Centaur Hero]

NATHANIEL

The warmage nods curtly to the innkeeper, "I am Nathaniel Shepard and these," he motions to his new friends, "Are my companions. We will only require a single room, perhaps an extra cot to accommodate all of us. A nice haunch of pork would do me well after my long journey. Pray tell, Master Billy, how would one ensure my companions and I get the finest cut of the pig? Our bellies are laughably empty and I only request the best for those under my comman... Or rather, my friends." After a moment or two, Nathaniel plucks five silver pieces from his coin purse and quietly slides them over to Billy. With a wink and a smile he says, "The finest cuts. I expect nothing less than the best."

"Very well little master, always a pleasure to accomidate the travelin folk, if one room ye need, it may be cramped but I aspect is still better than te side o te road. And as to te pork, me wifes cookin is so good I could give ye a hoof an yed ask fer seconds! But te best ye asked, and te best you'll get sir. Good I perhaps offer you a nice Dwarven stout while yer waitin? on a few coppers a pint sir."

Nathaniel notices a group of halflings in a corner that are staring at him. Seemingly suprised at seeing you.

[Seeress of Kell]

Mirielye

After what happened with her last suggestion, to investigate Willie's uncle's inn, Miri was kind of glad that Nathaniel sort of took over. "Sometimes I don't know why I bother opening my mouth," she thought to herself and sighed. Glad to be in an inn that didn't seem dangerous or strange, and also very accommodating was nice. As the Innkeeper's son was shoving around tables and chairs to make a place big enough to seat the whole party, Miri could feel his gaze linger on her. "It's probably the pointy ears... though Niomi is an elf too... oh well," she thinks to herself, shrugging it off.

After Nathaniel ensures that their meal will be the best they can get, Miri hesitantly decides to open her mouth again, hoping for less disastrous consequences this time. "Guys... I'm sorry I pushed the issue at the other inn. It didn't really get us anywhere. I just thought there was something odd about the whole thing." "I still think so," she adds silently, not wanting to press her luck.

[Felhammer]

NATHANIEL

The Halfling nods at Billy, "Excellent. We shall return later for the meal and our room. Until then, a pint for myself and each of my companions." The halfling is, however, distracted by the group of halflings sitting nearby. The warmage considers his options for a moment before taking decisive action - he straightens his armor, wanders over and introduces himself. "Greetings, I am Nathaniel Shepherd."

[Lady Moreta]

Aiden

Aiden rests a hand lightly on Miri's shoulder, squeezing gently.

"No one got hurt," he said,"that's the main thing. I should be back in time for the meal, but if not, please start without me" he adds, tugging on his tunic sleeves before heading out to find the church of Pelor.

[Sikario]

Marcus

Marcus nods at Aiden when he leaves "See you later." and then turns to Mirielye. "I thought you pushing the issue was what allowed you all to leave the inn safe. Don't be afraid to be inquisitive."

Marcus looks arround. He doesn't want to wait more than an hour in that place. Whatching the time go by, drinking and chit chatting.
"In fact Miri, why don't we use that skill of yours to see if we can find out what's the deal with the other Full Moon inn here? I'm sure, being this close, they could tell us some stories." he sais to Mirielye. "And I have a feeling Billy would be happy to talk to you."

Marcus sits at their table, waiting for Mirielye to do the same, and anyone else willing to, before calling Billy. "Say Billy, your father said it will be at least an hour until we can eat, and you don't seem very busy. Care to join us and share some tales of the road? We would like to hear your tavern stories too!"

[Centaur Hero]

NATHANIEL

The Halfling nods at Billy, "Excellent. We shall return later for the meal and our room. Until then, a pint for myself and each of my companions." The halfling is, however, distracted by the group of halflings sitting nearby. The warmage considers his options for a moment before taking decisive action - he straightens his armor, wanders over and introduces himself. "Greetings, I am Nathaniel Shepherd."

The halflings appear to be very confused, looking back and forth from you to eachother, you notice they are all dressed in an outdoorsman fashion, with leathers and furs. They also all have scimitars. They are dark of skin and hair. Three of the four of them have dreadlocks, which you have most likely never seen before. The eldest one, whose shaved head caught the light whenever he moved it, says, "I have not heard of clan Shepard, you must not be of the plains clans? Perhaps the great desert to the south?" He takes a chief off of his pipe then continues, "Or are you one of the city kin to the north? Either way, I am Lingir of clan dogpaw. These are my sons." He introduces them to you. Then points to a bowl of figs on the table, "Please, have some fruit and tell us a tale, and if I deem it well enough, I will compensate, with a tale of my own." He grabs a fig, and leans back in his chair with a mug of frothy ale."



Aiden

Aiden rests a hand lightly on Miri's shoulder, squeezing gently.

"No one got hurt," he said,"that's the main thing. I should be back in time for the meal, but if not, please start without me" he adds, tugging on his tunic sleeves before heading out to find the church of Pelor.

As you walk out the door, and hang a right down the road to the church, you pass the apothacary, and the open market. You see a cluster of wagons with some VERY brightly dressed people around it, some are selling wears, others are cooking or doing day to day chores, they appear to be the only venders who sleep in the market, as you see the only tents set up there are theirs. Some of the young girls are singing and dancing. When you finally make it to the church, you notice that it appears as though most of it is new, like a bunch of additions had been added fairly recently.

On the inside. Candles are lit everywhere, and the windows are open wide to let in the afternoon sun. There are a few farmers in attendence, praying for Pelor to continue granting the sunlight to them. There is a goodly plump priest whose bright smile seems very genuine. His Blonde hair and blue eyes glint in the light, not as tall as most men though powerfully built. He says to you, "Good afternoon my son, welcome to the humble chapel of Pelor, I am Ralston, and this is my assistent Piter", he points to a young lad, going around with wine. Stopping of course to pour a small glass for you and giving you a "Pelor's blessings on you sir." Ralston says, it appears, you took hurt not long ago good sir. Would you like some healing?" After revitalising you he goes on. "Please, grab a candle and make your prayers wherever you wish, and if you need anything just holler, either myself or Piter would be happy to assist." With that, he goes around the church lighting candles and such, while Piter carries his platter around distributing cups, and grabbing old ones. Over in the corner, you see an Orc in shining breastplate armor, and with a large Greataxe on his back, probably pound for pound the most powerful looking creature you have ever seen. He has two humans in his attendence, one is about fourteen years old, and the other, who is very sharply dressed is maybe eight or nine. They stand like cats ready to pounce in a moments notice. "Pelor you great and mighty, you bring me sun which in turn gives us more and the like, and such, I'm still new to this so don't get mad..." You notice he is reading from a piece of paper. "I like the ale and I like the fightin, so thank ee fer..." The younger lad says. "Sir Gronk, mother will not be pleased if you ruin our prayer time with that Orc tongue of yours." Gronk shakes his head and says "I like the fightING, so Thank YOU FOR them." He iritetably finishes, "Come ye little bastard, let's see if these 'Manners' will keep you're sword from clangin to th ground again. Willis, Devin, time to get drunk and fight!" He begins to clamber off and the younger boys shake their heads. "Why correct him? Is it just because your 'Mommy' told you to keep him civil? If so, squires should DO the listening, not the talking."


At Miri and Marcus (And presumebly Niomi)- Billy responds to your request, by checking with his father real quick, then he grabs an ale, and sits. "Mind you, if any fights or the like start, I will have to leave to break it up. Now what would you like to know?" He blushes when he see's Miri, and looks downward. "I havent seen much action before, just when the invaders tried to take the town awhile back, but I was young." He fingers a scar on his left cheek, and seems to suddenly be self concious of it. Not making eye contact with Miri.

[evyldead]

Niomi listens intently, "Go on Shepard, tell him a story." She leans back cross's her legs and picks at the fruit. "I do love some great fruit and a great story." As Niomi smiles.

[Lady Moreta]

Aiden

Aiden feels himself relaxing the instant he goes inside the church, and not just because the more muted colours are a relief after the assualt-on-the senses that was the marketplace. After accepting the wine from Piter and thanking Ralston profusely (it's not like he's never been injured before, but healing was always provided right away, and he isn't used to spending time as walking wounded), Aiden collects a candle and moves to a quiet corner where he won't be disturbed. He isn't, but he is distracted, both by the massive orc in the corner, and by his worries over what has happened thus far, what he should do next, and what to do (if anything) about the inn. Forcibly putting the former out of his mind, he lights the candle and prays over the latter for a good hour.

Feeling much refreshed, in mind and spirit, if not in body, Aiden winces over his creaking, stiff knees as he rises to his feet. He turns slightly, looking for Ralston. He can't do anything about what has been, shouldn't fret over what might be to come, but he can make a few enquires and see if he can't easy Miri's mind somewhat. They are friends, despite not having known each other that long, and Aiden likes to take care of his friends. And everyone else, truth be told. Finding Ralston, he approaches the man and speaks.

"Excuse me, good sir. I wonder if I might have a moment of your time?"

Am I correct in assuming that the 'revitalisation' you mentioned means Aiden can go back to full hit points? Actually, now that I think about it, he's already on full hit points. That potion Willie gave him brought him back up. Never mind.

[Centaur Hero]

Aiden

Aiden feels himself relaxing the instant he goes inside the church, and not just because the more muted colours are a relief after the assualt-on-the senses that was the marketplace. After accepting the wine from Piter and thanking Ralston profusely (it's not like he's never been injured before, but healing was always provided right away, and he isn't used to spending time as walking wounded), Aiden collects a candle and moves to a quiet corner where he won't be disturbed. He isn't, but he is distracted, both by the massive orc in the corner, and by his worries over what has happened thus far, what he should do next, and what to do (if anything) about the inn. Forcibly putting the former out of his mind, he lights the candle and prays over the latter for a good hour.

Feeling much refreshed, in mind and spirit, if not in body, Aiden winces over his creaking, stiff knees as he rises to his feet. He turns slightly, looking for Ralston. He can't do anything about what has been, shouldn't fret over what might be to come, but he can make a few enquires and see if he can't easy Miri's mind somewhat. They are friends, despite not having known each other that long, and Aiden likes to take care of his friends. And everyone else, truth be told. Finding Ralston, he approaches the man and speaks.

"Excuse me, good sir. I wonder if I might have a moment of your time?"

Am I correct in assuming that the 'revitalisation' you mentioned means Aiden can go back to full hit points? Actually, now that I think about it, he's already on full hit points. That potion Willie gave him brought him back up. Never mind.

"Of course my good man, however I may be of service. Sorry if Sir Gronk disturbed you, his intentions are pure, but it's hard for him to behave properly sometimes. But I think that Bristle would be in the hands of his evil kin if not for his help." He motions for you to take a seat at a nearby table. "Now, what's on your mind lad?"

[Lady Moreta]

Aiden


"Of course my good man, however I may be of service. Sorry if Sir Gronk disturbed you, his intentions are pure, but it's hard for him to behave properly sometimes. But I think that Bristle would be in the hands of his evil kin if not for his help." He motions for you to take a seat at a nearby table. "Now, what's on your mind lad?"

"I was not bothered at all," Aiden reassures Ralston hastily. Fascinated, maybe, he thinks, but not bothered.

"I was wondering if you knew anything about the Full Moon Inn? A friend of mine is convinced there's something going on and it has her quite worried. I wanted to put her mind at ease."

Let's be diplomatic, just in case the priest isn't feeling too keen to talk.
Diplomacy: [roll0]

[Centaur Hero]

Aiden



"I was not bothered at all," Aiden reassures Ralston hastily. Fascinated, maybe, he thinks, but not bothered.

"I was wondering if you knew anything about the Full Moon Inn? A friend of mine is convinced there's something going on and it has her quite worried. I wanted to put her mind at ease."

Let's be diplomatic, just in case the priest isn't feeling too keen to talk.
Diplomacy: [roll0]

The priest gives a chuckle. Well, I wouldn't walk in there with a full coinpurse and expect to leave with it. They are sort of a small time thieves guild like in your Cities up north, only here they are the devil we know, so the local guards sometimes look the other way. The town used to hate them, before the gold rush up north, but now they gain favor with the people by keeping out rival guilds, and keeping the local land barons at bay. A necessary evil some might call them. I personally do not believe in an 'outlaw justice' but some folks do. I believe in the end Lady Allesya will remove them. But for now perhaps, she might need them. Why do you ask? Did you run amiss with them? I would advise you to go to the sleeping giant inn if you need a bed, fine beer and food there as well. Mrs. Druer is the finest cook around in my opinion."

[Lady Moreta]

Aiden

"I think we managed to avoid that, thankfully," Aiden says amused. "We didn't run amiss, per se, just... as I said, my friend was concerned and insisted we investigate. They were - extremely prejudiced against outsiders, and one of my colleagues mentioned something about wererats. We have in fact, retired to the Sleeping Giant, but I wanted to be able to reassure my friends that the situation was under control."

It just occurred to me to spoiler this, since not everyone is there for this conversation. That way people don't have to read it if they don't want to. Also, Aiden is basically trying to work out if there's anything to the idea that there's something seriously wrong with this inn. He doesn't want to get involved, but he's not quite comfortable just walking away either. And because I personally am a suspicious child, sense motive on Ralston's response.
Sense Motive: [roll0]
Blast. I forgot you can't preview posts with dice rolls in them. I'll reroll in the OOC thread.

[Centaur Hero]

At Aiden- "Wererats lad?" Ralston chuckles. "Thieves, and lowlifes yes, but I seriously doubt anything so heinous as a moonworshiping lycanthropes. I think yer friend may need to calm his suspicious nature. Now was there anything else I can help with?"

[Felhammer]

The halflings appear to be very confused, looking back and forth from you to eachother, you notice they are all dressed in an outdoorsman fashion, with leathers and furs. They also all have scimitars. They are dark of skin and hair. Three of the four of them have dreadlocks, which you have most likely never seen before. The eldest one, whose shaved head caught the light whenever he moved it, says, "I have not heard of clan Shepard, you must not be of the plains clans? Perhaps the great desert to the south?" He takes a chief off of his pipe then continues, "Or are you one of the city kin to the north? Either way, I am Lingir of clan dogpaw. These are my sons." He introduces them to you. Then points to a bowl of figs on the table, "Please, have some fruit and tell us a tale, and if I deem it well enough, I will compensate, with a tale of my own." He grabs a fig, and leans back in his chair with a mug of frothy ale."


NATHANIEL

"Well met, Lingir of clan dogpaw and sons. I am of our kin that live to the north. My family has never possessed a clan name, or at least none that I am aware. Sadly, I did not know my parents very well, for I was plucked out of the poverty-stricken hovel I was born into and uplifted to the hallowed halls of Castle Coldridge. I trained as a mercenary soldier for nearly my entire life. My family was the army, not my biological kin. I was an excellent soldier and saw much combat, even being promoted up through the ranks to a position of prominence and leadership. I was loved by those under me and feared by my enemies. What else could a soldier want?" Nathaniel trails off for a time as he collects his thoughts, "However, after a poorly executed battle against the orcish hordes of the equally dreaded and devious Shaman Gro'Grandurra, I was condemned to a life of banishment. I wandered for months in the countryside before shaping up and dedicating my life to protecting those who need it. I may not be affiliated with Castle Coldridge any longer but what they taught me - self reliance, dedication, valor, honor, tactics - will stay with me for the rest of my life." Although he tries to put on a stalwart face, the memories of his banishment do show, but only for mere heartbeats. He once more buries such emotions deep down in his soul.

Nathaniel acts in accordance to the way he was taught, which is entirely human in origin (since Humans were the prominent race at the Castle). His mannerisms and accent are most likely noticeably un-halfling-like to other Halflings (although that may not be readily apparent to those that are not Halflings).

[Lady Moreta]

Aiden

Aiden chuckles. "I'll be sure to let her know," he says, feeling more confused and conflicted now than he did before. Niomi had sounded fairly certain that there were wererats in the inn, and she had no real reason to lie about it that he could see. "That is all I wanted to know. I should get back to the others, dinner is waiting." He bows politely, then retreats back to the Sleepy Giant.


What exactly is known about lycanthropy? I'm wondering if Aiden (or anyone else for that matter) would pick up on the name of the inn as a clue (I noticed, but I have ranks in Knowledge: Metagame.)

Additionally, Aiden spent a good hour in the church, so I'll hold off posting further til the time in the Sleepy Giant has caught up :smallsmile:

[Centaur Hero]

NATHANIEL

"Well met, Lingir of clan dogpaw and sons. I am of our kin that live to the north. My family has never possessed a clan name, or at least none that I am aware. Sadly, I did not know my parents very well, for I was plucked out of the poverty-stricken hovel I was born into and uplifted to the hallowed halls of Castle Coldridge. I trained as a mercenary soldier for nearly my entire life. My family was the army, not my biological kin. I was an excellent soldier and saw much combat, even being promoted up through the ranks to a position of prominence and leadership. I was loved by those under me and feared by my enemies. What else could a soldier want?" Nathaniel trails off for a time as he collects his thoughts, "However, after a poorly executed battle against the orcish hordes of the equally dreaded and devious Shaman Gro'Grandurra, I was condemned to a life of banishment. I wandered for months in the countryside before shaping up and dedicating my life to protecting those who need it. I may not be affiliated with Castle Coldridge any longer but what they taught me - self reliance, dedication, valor, honor, tactics - will stay with me for the rest of my life." Although he tries to put on a stalwart face, the memories of his banishment do show, but only for mere heartbeats. He once more buries such emotions deep down in his soul.

Nathaniel acts in accordance to the way he was taught, which is entirely human in origin (since Humans were the prominent race at the Castle). His mannerisms and accent are most likely noticeably un-halfling-like to other Halflings (although that may not be readily apparent to those that are not Halflings).

The four halflings are listening intently to the story, they shake their head when they hear of your banishment. But nod when you mention that you still hold on to the values that you hold dear. Lingir refills his pipe, and lights it anew before he says anything. "When I was just a lad, barely out of my mothers bed of flowers, The dogpaws were in a state of unrest, it had been prophisized that a great evil would come to the lands of my people, and only the mightiest among us may redeem the sins of our people. You see, before I was born there was peace between our tribe and the prosperous goblin tribe called the 'yellow fin' whose success with with fishing was well known throughout the lands. But there was a chief who thought it wise to rob these creatures of their spoils, robbery is a great sin to our people here, among all the Halfling clans. Many warriors died in the attempted robbery, and we were driven back, mainly because the 'lapping tongue' Halflings held their bargin with the Yellow fins, and helped fight us off. So you see, not only did we try to steal, but our shame was know among the other tribes. Eventually the current chief and shaman were exiled to help recover honor, but our people still fell to sickness and famine, it was thus how a foul creature wandered from the swamps and fell upon our people. We had few warriors, and still fewer wardogs, since we had to sell them for grain, to a local farmer, who since bred them into the great dogs that are here in the kennels today. So it was under the poorest conditions possible that I saw the great blackness fall upon our people. The creature swooped in with hardly any warning, for we had no scouts, and immidiately laid waste and panic everywhere it went, it's claws rent, it's tail stabbed, it's teeth gnawed, and his very breath disintigrated anything in it's way." He pulls the sleeve of his arm back and shows a scar where the flesh had been burned to the bone on his left forearm. "It was then that our redemption was at hand, a young boy, who had not earned his first lance, nor earned his dog through combat as was proper. Still, the boy climbed his father's horse, which had not been ridden for years, and was concidered feral by most people. He grabbed a lance, and drove it through the beasts wing, and into the side of the fell beast, who let loose a barrage of his acid breath. After the torrent of acid was done, the beast ran, because he could no longer fly, and ran into the swamp. The boy, though grievously wounded, followed on his fierce mount, not knowing if any warriors followed, indeed he did not care. He followed the beast to it's lair and killed it just inside, his sword melted as it beheaded the creature." Lingir's son pulls a melted scimitar pummel from a pack. "He then saw the thing that dreaded him most, his father, and the old clan shaman. Without words, the lad fell upon them with only his knife, and his shield arm lay limp at his side from the acid. He killed the traitor's who had sold out there own people yet again, and when the warriors from the tribe arrived they announced that the chiefless tribe was chiefless no more, and they called the name of their new leader!" Lingir almost yells as he finished. The boys stand up and yell, "Hail chief Lingir, protector of the dogpaws!" And they pull out a cloak of black dragon scales and place it on his shoulders. "I extend welcome to you shephard, you may share our fires and water any time you wish. Someday your pain will be over, and your shame, and you will be redeemed in the eyes of your forefathers." With that he sits and eats some figs. A satisfied look on his face.

[evyldead]

The four halflings are listening intently to the story, they shake their head when they hear of your banishment. But nod when you mention that you still hold on to the values that you hold dear. Lingir refills his pipe, and lights it anew before he says anything. "When I was just a lad, barely out of my mothers bed of flowers, The dogpaws were in a state of unrest, it had been prophisized that a great evil would come to the lands of my people, and only the mightiest among us may redeem the sins of our people. You see, before I was born there was peace between our tribe and the prosperous goblin tribe called the 'yellow fin' whose success with with fishing was well known throughout the lands. But there was a chief who thought it wise to rob these creatures of their spoils, robbery is a great sin to our people here, among all the Halfling clans. Many warriors died in the attempted robbery, and we were driven back, mainly because the 'lapping tongue' Halflings held their bargin with the Yellow fins, and helped fight us off. So you see, not only did we try to steal, but our shame was know among the other tribes. Eventually the current chief and shaman were exiled to help recover honor, but our people still fell to sickness and famine, it was thus how a foul creature wandered from the swamps and fell upon our people. We had few warriors, and still fewer wardogs, since we had to sell them for grain, to a local farmer, who since bred them into the great dogs that are here in the kennels today. So it was under the poorest conditions possible that I saw the great blackness fall upon our people. The creature swooped in with hardly any warning, for we had no scouts, and immidiately laid waste and panic everywhere it went, it's claws rent, it's tail stabbed, it's teeth gnawed, and his very breath disintigrated anything in it's way." He pulls the sleeve of his arm back and shows a scar where the flesh had been burned to the bone on his left forearm. "It was then that our redemption was at hand, a young boy, who had not earned his first lance, nor earned his dog through combat as was proper. Still, the boy climbed his father's horse, which had not been ridden for years, and was concidered feral by most people. He grabbed a lance, and drove it through the beasts wing, and into the side of the fell beast, who let loose a barrage of his acid breath. After the torrent of acid was done, the beast ran, because he could no longer fly, and ran into the swamp. The boy, though grievously wounded, followed on his fierce mount, not knowing if any warriors followed, indeed he did not care. He followed the beast to it's lair and killed it just inside, his sword melted as it beheaded the creature." Lingir's son pulls a melted scimitar pummel from a pack. "He then saw the thing that dreaded him most, his father, and the old clan shaman. Without words, the lad fell upon them with only his knife, and his shield arm lay limp at his side from the acid. He killed the traitor's who had sold out there own people yet again, and when the warriors from the tribe arrived they announced that the chiefless tribe was chiefless no more, and they called the name of their new leader!" Lingir almost yells as he finished. The boys stand up and yell, "Hail chief Lingir, protector of the dogpaws!" And they pull out a cloak of black dragon scales and place it on his shoulders. "I extend welcome to you shephard, you may share our fires and water any time you wish. Someday your pain will be over, and your shame, and you will be redeemed in the eyes of your forefathers." With that he sits and eats some figs. A satisfied look on his face.

Niomi listens and watches as his story goes on her face's emotion goes with the emotion of the story and says "Chief Lingir, what an honor!" Then Niomi looks over to Shepard, This is what I would want to be remembered for, but I will never be able to do what the did. Your people are amazing people.

[Felhammer]

NATHANIEL

The old soldier in Nathaniel hangs on every word. His tension rises and falls with the story. The warmage tries to maintain a cool demeanor but the excitement and suspense subtly break through his rock-hard facade. When the halfling finishes his tail, Nathaniel cannot help but whisper, Hail chief Lingir, protector of the dogpaws, indeed! After a fashion, Nathaniel states, "Your generosity knows no bounds, Chief. My companions have business in the town. Being a soldier, I must accompany them (if only to save them from poorly haggled deals). We shall meet again Chief Lingir, of that you can be assured. Perhaps next time, my own story will be half as equal to your own." With that said, the warmage gives a slight bow, turns around and walks outside to the comparatively busy street. "What excitement!" thinks the halfling, "I had no idea our southern kin were so adventurous. Perhaps one day I will join them in battle. It would do me well to be around kindred souls for a change..."

Looking over to Naomi (assuming she walks outside as well), "We should see if we can find our new friends. Also..." He grows silent for a moment before hesitantly saying, "I think I am in the mood for some fruit. We should see if there is a vendor along the way.

[evyldead]

Looking over to Naomi (assuming she walks outside as well), "We should see if we can find our new friends. Also..." He grows silent for a moment before hesitantly saying, "I think I am in the mood for some fruit. We should see if there is a vendor along the way.

Niomi

Niomi walks out with Shepard and nods her head to him, "Indeed, fruit sounds good right about now."

[Felhammer]

NATHANIEL

As Naomi and Nathaniel walk about Bristle, he asks, "Now that you have heard my tale, I would be interested in hearing your own. From where do you hail, Naomi?"

[evyldead]

NATHANIEL

As Naomi and Nathaniel walk about Bristle, he asks, "Now that you have heard my tale, I would be interested in hearing your own. From where do you hail, Naomi?"

Niomi

Niomi smiles and looks at the shepard, "I am the daughter of the Shengee family, my parents are the elders of our trib or clan whatever you would like to call it. We live in the Moon Lit Forest , home to the Moon Elves and creatures that worship the Moon goddess. I was always the adventurous one out of our clan, and the center of the forest is home to the lycanthropes of the forest. The Moon Elves and Lycanthropes have boundaries in the forest. the center of the forest is there where the great Moon Tree sits and watches over everything in the forest and protects us from evil while in the forest. The elves were not allowed to go into their part of the forest only the Elders May enter, when called upon, I however went to go see what was in there and they didn't like that too much, and ran and chased after me with such ferocity, I have been saved by this bright beam that came from the tree and a female appeared and said "I m too young to understand the laws of the forest yet." I was banished from that part of the forest as part of my punishment, never able to set foot in the center of the forest again and if I did without permission well I'm sure you know what the penalty is. And ever since then I have been taking jobs from people from my clan and to other people in different cities to try to get my name known and well here I am. I would like to go and see the center of the forest some day but it is not my place to go and see. Niomi gets the look of fear in her eye when she talks about the lycanthropes and then when she speaks of the jobs it turns into happiness. "That Shepard, is all I have on my story. I did not do much like your kin back there, but I'm alive and still kickin.

[Centaur Hero]

At Nathaniel and Niomi-
By this point in the day, you only see three venders left in the market, and none appear to be offering produce. You see only a grizzled old man packing up his leathers and hides, and a young boy who appeared to be selling some sort of stick covered with meat and onions and peppers. You also see a few wagons clustered around some tents, and there are peple singing and dancing around their fires. Brightly colored clothing catching the suns last rays. Their language is unrecognizable to either of you. Down the road a couple hundred feet or so is the missing paladin Aiden.

At Aiden-
You see the halfling and the rogue up ahead of you on your way back to the tavern, just outside of the cloesd open market.

At Miri and Markus-
After talking timidly with you for awhile, Billy's father calls him over to attend some thing or another. As you wait, time seems to pass quickly, seeing as how this is the first comfort you have had in over a week. And before you know it, dinner is being served, and Albrect comes to check on you to see where your friends have gone. "The wee one insisted on the choicest portions, where do you think he has gone to?"

[Sikario]

Marcus

At the tavern

"I'm sure they will be here at any moment now." sais Marcus. A little bit of concern crosses his mind while looking at Mirielye. "I hope they did not find trouble out there."
"Anyway, let's start eating before it gets cold." "It's not like w were waiting for eating together as a family."
Marcus starts eating the hot pork. A good meal after all the trail rations was one of the best things after a long travel.

Between bites, Marcus asks Mirielye "I think Billy likes elves. But he was specially interested in you. Niomi is an elf too but he did not look at her twice." Marcus smirks, knowking Mirielye was uncomfortable about it.

[Felhammer]

NATHANIEL

The halfling walks with his friend through the streets, scouring the local merchants for a fruit stand. As he does, he listens intently to his companion's story, "Your life story is strange and mystical, Naomi. Far more enchanting and interesting than the life of a mere soldier. Perhaps one day, when you have gained more experience, become more worldly and after you have proven yourself worthy, you shall be given the opportunity to return to the central forest. We lead dangerous lives, Naomi. We do not know what tomorrow will bring. Live each day as if it were your last. Living life to the fullest is the only way to live in my opinion. Worry not about the amount of stories you possess, worry more about their quality. One good tale is worth a thousand dull ones.

Disappointed at the lack of fruit, the halfling strides over to the young boy and states rather curtly, "My companion and I are a bit nippish. Two meat sticks, my boy.?"

[Lady Moreta]

Aiden

Walking slowly down the street, mulling over everything the priest had told him, Aiden almost missed seeing Nathaniel and Niomi near one of the few remaining vendors. He started to change direction to join them, when a closer look seemed to show that they were deep in some conversation. Not wanting to interrupt, and being reminded by his stomach's growling just how hungry he was, Aiden nodded as he passed, gesturing towards the inn.

"I'll see you there," he smiled.

Entering the inn, he spotted Miri and Marcus eating, and moved to join them. Sitting down, he helped himself to the food.

"I passed Nathaniel and Niomi on the way," he reported. "They seemed to be deep in conversation, so I didn't interrupt. Did anything happen while I was gone?"

[evyldead]

NATHANIEL

The halfling walks with his friend through the streets, scouring the local merchants for a fruit stand. As he does, he listens intently to his companion's story, "Your life story is strange and mystical, Naomi. Far more enchanting and interesting than the life of a mere soldier. Perhaps one day, when you have gained more experience, become more worldly and after you have proven yourself worthy, you shall be given the opportunity to return to the central forest. We lead dangerous lives, Naomi. We do not know what tomorrow will bring. Live each day as if it were your last. Living life to the fullest is the only way to live in my opinion. Worry not about the amount of stories you possess, worry more about their quality. One good tale is worth a thousand dull ones.

Disappointed at the lack of fruit, the halfling strides over to the young boy and states rather curtly, "My companion and I are a bit nippish. Two meat sticks, my boy.?"

Niomi

"I love the taste of food, but I wish there is someway I can not eat or drink for emergencies where you can't eat, do you know of anything like that Shepard. You are right, we should live our lives to the fullest. So now that we are done worrying for the day, what's going on for tomorrow?

[Centaur Hero]

NATHANIEL

The halfling walks with his friend through the streets, scouring the local merchants for a fruit stand. As he does, he listens intently to his companion's story, "Your life story is strange and mystical, Naomi. Far more enchanting and interesting than the life of a mere soldier. Perhaps one day, when you have gained more experience, become more worldly and after you have proven yourself worthy, you shall be given the opportunity to return to the central forest. We lead dangerous lives, Naomi. We do not know what tomorrow will bring. Live each day as if it were your last. Living life to the fullest is the only way to live in my opinion. Worry not about the amount of stories you possess, worry more about their quality. One good tale is worth a thousand dull ones.

Disappointed at the lack of fruit, the halfling strides over to the young boy and states rather curtly, "My companion and I are a bit nippish. Two meat sticks, my boy.?"

The boy replies by saying, "Sure thing, and the names Kabob, Jimmy Kabob. I call these meals on a stick, but I am trying to come up with a name that's easier to market...."



Once Nathaniel and Niomi join the others at the dinner table, you all sit down and enjoy the finest roast pork any of you have ever had. Mrs. Druer seems to live up to her reputation. There is a singer in a corner, with a man playing the flute, and as the night get's on, people start dancing, and laughing heartily. Even young Billy dances a jig or two. When the sounds of a man crying at the bar gather your attention.

[Lady Moreta]

Aiden

The meal was excellent, whoever the cook was, they deserved much praise. He found himself getting distracted though, by a quiet sound from nearby. Looking around, he noticed, to his surprise, that there was a man sitting at the bar who was softly crying. He frowned, concerned, then looked to his companions. They all appeared to have noticed the man, but there was no point in them all getting up and going over there, they'd likely just upset him more, or freak him out. Aiden stood, as quietly as a man can, when he's 6'5" and dressed in scale mail.

"Perhaps let me..." he suggested, waving one hand towards the man. "If we all go over there, we may cause more problems." He quite deliberately refrained from mentioning the debacle at the Full Moon that had been caused, at least in part, by all of them going in.

[Felhammer]

NATHANIEL

While still at the vendor, Nathaniel laughs, "I don't know if these "Meals on Sticks" will catch on but I suggest the name "Meat Stick". Its short, catchy and aptly descriptive." With a smile and a wink he says, "You can keep the name kid. Free of charge."

As they walk back to the Tavern the halfling looks up to Niomi, "Well if you want to not eat during emergencies, then I suggest gaining some weig..." He immediately cuts himself short. After an awkward pause he continues, "Some, err, meat on your bones. You never see a hefty man starve, am I right?"

Once in the tavern, the warmage consumes what looks like nearly his entire body weight in meat. Succulent, succulent pork. The best pork he's ever had! He jovially watches those who get a bit tipsy and dance. He does not get up himself but rather enjoys watching others have fun. The sound of a man crying cuts short the halfling's fun. Nathaniel listens to Aiden but shakes his head in disagreement, "We are all happy here. Why should one man be left out? Niomi! Go over there and ask him to join us. He should be around happy people."

The halfling then looks at Aiden and smiles, "A community of friends is a better support system than a single person, no matter how good they are at consoling. Let Niomi go over there and pull the man over with her charm. Once he is here, we shall rip apart the man's troubles and cure what ails him!"

[evyldead]

NATHANIEL

While still at the vendor, Nathaniel laughs, "I don't know if these "Meals on Sticks" will catch on but I suggest the name "Meat Stick". Its short, catchy and aptly descriptive." With a smile and a wink he says, "You can keep the name kid. Free of charge."

As they walk back to the Tavern the halfling looks up to Niomi, "Well if you want to not eat during emergencies, then I suggest gaining some weig..." He immediately cuts himself short. After an awkward pause he continues, "Some, err, meat on your bones. You never see a hefty man starve, am I right?"

Once in the tavern, the warmage consumes what looks like nearly his entire body weight in meat. Succulent, succulent pork. The best pork he's ever had! He jovially watches those who get a bit tipsy and dance. He does not get up himself but rather enjoys watching others have fun. The sound of a man crying cuts short the halfling's fun. "We are all happy here. Why should one man be left out? Niomi! Go over there and ask him to join us. He should be around happy people."

Niomi

"It's in my blood to not really look "heafty", but I mean in case you're stranded in a cave in or something." as Niomi laughs a little bit.

Niomi eats a little bit and sees the man crying then hears Shepard tell Niomi to get him over here. "A sad man on this fine evening. I'll be right back guys. as Niomi goes over to the man crying walks up next to him and puts a hand on his shoulder. "I couldn't help but notice that this place if full a cheers and such, but then I saw you my good sir, may I ask what seems to be the problem?"

[Sikario]

Marcus

Marcus enjoys the pork. He is not sure if it is excellent because he is hungry and tired of dried meat, or because the cook is superb. But he is too busy tasting every drop of it to care.
Once he is finished he waves at the owner, points at his plate and kisses his fingers to state his opinion on the plate.

As the time passes and the tavern hall burst into activity and music, he can't help it to notice how happy normal people are with so little. While thinking about it, he hears the weeping, at the same time all his companions so it seems.
Aiden and Nathaniel both want to go check on the man, but they have different approaches about it.

"Hmm, this is not the first time." thinks Marcus looking at the halfling. He must be used to command people, maybe because of his military past, but his ways were not being considerate enough given is current position. Aiden got cut too on his action, clearly surprised.

"This is going to cause trouble in the future..." but Marcus decides now it's not the time or place.

He changes his attention to Niomi, now talking with the man, insterested in his reaction.

[Felhammer]

NATHANIEL

The halfling bites into another hunk of pork as he eyes the crying man. With his mouth still half full he comments, "Men shouldn't cry. Its unseemly. His ills will need a good priest to sort through... That is if our little happy get together doesn't work out..." He eyes Marcus and Aiden for a moment before continuing, "That means you lot." Nathaniel quaffs some drink and gulps down a half chewed chunk. "Gods never seemed much use to me. Sure they are powerful and worthy of worship but, once you're out on the battlefield, no god can help you. You have to survive on your own primal instinct. War makes men out of boys and the dead out of men, as they say.

[Seeress of Kell]

Mirielye

After being quiet and introspective for a while, not to mention slightly confused by the way the bartender's son keeps looking at her, Miri shakes herself out of it. She still feels bad about what happened at the Full Moon, and for the last little bit has been running over a litany of "if only" situations in her head, trying to figure out what she could have done differently to make it end not so disastrously. Seems like she can never do anything right - at least, things never end the way she wants them to... much like when she decided to tell Failon that her feelings for him were perhaps a bit more than friendly. Not only did he not return those feelings, he stopped speaking to her - so she also lost her best friend. That's when she decided to leave Arininoth and put her Ranger training to use.

With a sigh, she comes back around to hear them discussing the crying man sitting not far from them, mostly because she noticed Aiden stand up. She notices that Niomi has already made her way over to the man. "Hopefully none of us will upset him any more than he already is - hopefully we can actually find a way to help. Maybe Niomi will be back over soon to let us know what he said."

[Lady Moreta]

Aiden

A slight frown mars Aiden's brow as the conversation moves on around him, but as he watches Niomi walk over to the man, he can't help but think that perhaps Nathaniel is right, and a pretty woman would be more effective than a plain man, no matter how earnest or keen to help that man was. He returns to his seat, and his food, tuning back into the conversation in time to hear Nathaniel and Miri's latest comments.

"We have a number of people here, and numerous skills. I'd be surprised if we can't find something to do that will help. And I'm sure Niomi's charms won't go astray." He added dryly, always be able to laugh at yourself Brother Dron had said. It good advice, if a little hard to follow. Then again, it was hard to tell how much of what Brother Dron said was meant to be taken seriously. After all, he'd followed up the former gem with if nothing else, it confuses people.

Nathaniel's words didn't sit well with him though, and it took a moment of quiet introspection to figure out why. He didn't like to admit it, but Aiden found the little halfling uncomfortable to be around. He wasn't sure exactly why that was, probably a combination of things. Part of it, if he was going to be honest, was that he found Nathaniel intimidating, for all that Aiden was twice his size. Nathaniel was sure of himself, confident and secure in his mind. Aiden was none of them. But the halflings attitudes rubbed Aiden up the wrong way, and he found himself avoiding contact for that reason.

You know better, little one. The world is made up of many people, and if you are going to live in it, you must learn to live with them. Try to see it from their point of view. Aiden frowned. He remembered those words, not from Brother Dron, Brother Pereg or his father; they had been spoken by his mother, who had, Aiden reflected, always given the best advice of all. All right mama, he thought. I'll try.

"Why is it 'unseemly' for a man to cry?" He asked finally, raising the first point he had a problem with. "I was taught to fight and to keep fighting, but if something has gone wrong, is wrong - whatever, then it's far better to let it out than to bottle it up, even if that means crying. I've heard stories about what happens when people bottle things up." Aiden's tone turns a little darker, a little sadder. He'd never seen it himself, but the stories hadn't been pleasant.

"And, what does- what does that have to do with the gods?" He asks, puzzled and not seeing at all the connection Nathaniel was making. "I don't understand where you're coming from here. And I have to disagree," he adds, a little sheepishly. "I am trained to harness the power of Pelor on the battlefield. If that isn't 'help' then I don't know what is."

[Centaur Hero]

The people of the room seem unaffected by the man's lamentations, except for a younger man patting the crying man's shoulder.

At Niomi-
"My farm!" The man wails. "Orcs ran off with everything! I have nothing left! They took my animals, they took my equipment, they took everything! They even threatned me and my family if we tried to stop them. Now I have no choice but to sell my farm, and for less now I'm sure, since I am desperate, and have nothing on it. It was in my family for years." The younger man has a few tears running down his face. He wipes them before adding. "The town guards say that without any proof they can't make any arrests, and they were unable to track them. Know anyone who could?" He adds with a slightly hopeful tone. "Old Rufus had his trail for a little ways, but me an paw couldn't face that many orcs even if we got to em." The older man says "Son, I'm afraid that we can't offer much of a reward, maybe Lawrence Grinwell will let us keep working the land for him, so we will have a roof over our heads."

[Felhammer]

NATHANIEL

The halfling sighs, "Men don't cry because it just isn't natural. You take those emotions and you funnel them into something useful, like rage. You bottle it all up, then release it all in one big go on the battlefield. Nothing says "cleansing your emotions" quite like bashing a man's skull in..." He trails off... His eyes grow a bit glazed for a second as he whispers, "As you lie helplessly on your back, with an orc sitting on top of you. Your hands reach out and try to find something... Anything... A rock. Yes, a rock. You swing it up and knock it against the Orc's head. He falls limp next to you. Reflexively, you lunge on top of the beast. You take that same rock and slam it once, twice, thrice into his skull until all that remains is a pile bloody goop..."

As if waking from a dream, the halfling shakes off the cobwebs and looks into Aiden's eyes, "That is what you do with rage. You kill because if you don't, you are liable to be killed. It is a dragon eat dragon world out there, I tell you."

Nathaniel bites into another hunk of meat and half chews it as he responds to Aiden's second query, "Clerics can heal, right? But magic is finite, or else everyone suffering would be healed, right? When you are on the battlefield, resources are tight. Even if a Cleric spends the entire battle healing, he will eventually run out of divine mumbojumbo. Worse yet, even if he heals a soldier, that man is liable to get get shot or cut down seconds later. War is deadly and no god can make it a more palatable place to exist. Sure, I've heard tell of gods directly intervening but, how often does that happen? Not a lot I reckon." The halfling swallows down his food and states, "No, they just sit up in the sky and watch us lesser being fight and die needlessly."

[evyldead]

At Niomi-
"My farm!" The man wails. "Orcs ran off with everything! I have nothing left! They took my animals, they took my equipment, they took everything! They even threatned me and my family if we tried to stop them. Now I have no choice but to sell my farm, and for less now I'm sure, since I am desperate, and have nothing on it. It was in my family for years." The younger man has a few tears running down his face. He wipes them before adding. "The town guards say that without any proof they can't make any arrests, and they were unable to track them. Know anyone who could?" He adds with a slightly hopeful tone. "Old Rufus had his trail for a little ways, but me an paw couldn't face that many orcs even if we got to em." The older man says "Son, I'm afraid that we can't offer much of a reward, maybe Lawrence Grinwell will let us keep working the land for him, so we will have a roof over our heads."

Niomi

Niomi listens intently, and when he mentions Lawrence Grinwell, she gets exited a little bit. "Hmm, maybe me and my friends would be able to help you out and get your stuff back, come on over with my and we all will chat on the matter okay?" Niomi gives a smile and rubs his shoulder a little.

[Lady Moreta]

Aiden

Aiden is stymied. He has also noticed a glaring hole in his education. His teachers taught him about the paladins code, in general, and specifically relating to Pelor. He has been taught how to fight, how to defend those weaker than himself, how to be kind, gentle and compassionate, but also strong and uncompromising. He has not however, been taught how to respond to someone who seems to think his entire way of life is worthless. Even his mother's advice 'try to see it from their perspective' doesn't seem particularly helpful any more. The other perspective is so foreign, Aiden isn't sure he'll ever understand it. What's more, he isn't sure he wants to. But he can't just sit there, gaping like a fish out of water, he has to say something. It's just a bit - unfortunate, that Aiden's mouth tends to run away with him when he's stressed, and the first thing he blurts out could be construed as a bit... sarcastic.

"If it isn't natural for men to cry, then why do we have tear ducts?" He blurts out, clamping his mouth shut immediately afterwards, horrified at himself. "Uh, I mean... we are capable of crying. And since that's the case, surely that means that crying is entirely natural, and that bottling things up is not." Aiden pauses briefly, wondering why he's so determined to argue this point. Deep down, he suspects it's because he'd prefer to argue this point, which could really be summed up as 'you're entitled to your opinion and I'm entitled to mine', rather than the bigger issue of the activities of the gods.

But it's Nathaniel's whispered commen (which he wisely decides to skip over) that tells him Nathaniel is perhaps not as stoic as he pretends to be. Not quite as tough as he'd like to think he is. As he'd like to be. And that gives Aiden courage. After all, protecting someone emotionally is just as important as protecting someone physically.

"War is... never a good thing. I don't believe the gods enjoy it any more than we do." Aiden starts off by latching onto the point he can fully agree with. War is never a good thing. "Well, I know there are some gods who do, but I'm not talking about them - and you don't seem to be either. Are- are you saying that a man should bottle up his emotions and release them on the battlefield because the gods won't do anything about it? Because if they did, then clerics would be able to heal everyone and no one would die?" He sounds a startled, the idea having just come to him. "Forgive me, Nathan- Master Shepherd- Nathaniel, but that's ridiculous." Warming to his subject, he starts speaking faster, words tumbling out and tripping over each other. "The gods can't interfere to the point you seem to think they should. That would be a total negation of our own free will, our ability to choose for ourselves. Would you prefer to be a mindless drone?" This is familiar territory now. Aiden always enjoyed these debates in the temple. "They give clerics - and paladins," he adds as a modest afterthought, "the ability to heal and fight for, and in the name of their god so that they can 'do something'. And sometimes they will act further through a person or group, but to do anything more than that would be to strip away our free will. I don't believe any god- well, any good god, wants to do that."

Aiden stops speaking, suddenly aware that he's been ranting a little. Always did get carried away he thinks. Making an effort to calm himself, he focuses on the halfling.

"War is never palatable. Have you ever considered that the gods don't make it more so in the hopes that we will learn to stop fighting. I would gladly hang up my sword and fight no more - but right now, that just isn't possible."


For roleplaying purposes, if anyone particularly wants to do a sense motive on that little speech, Aiden is sort-of lying about that last point - the whole stop fighting thing. He likes fighting, it's what he knows and what he's best at and he's fairly certain that he'd have nothing left if he couldn't fight. It's not that he doesn't want wars and fighting to stop, just that he doesn't really know who is he or what he can do without it.

Possibly a little something's been left out of his education there :smallwink:

[Centaur Hero]

The farmer gladly follows Niomi over to the table, and introduces himself as Leopold, and his son is 'lil Leo. "This fine elf lady said perhaps you all could help me." He looks back and forth from the Paladin to the Halfling and says, "Perhaps now isn't a good time?"

If you all tell him to tell his story he relates the same info that I posted for Niomi last post.

[Lady Moreta]

Aiden

"No, no. Now is a perfectly good time." Aiden babbles a bit, the words falling over themselves to get out. He is perhaps a little too eager to drop the previous topic of conversation. Besides, he thinks that helping someone who needs it is something that he and Nathaniel can agree to. He listens intently to the farmer's story, beginning to think that there might be something to Niomi's insistence that this Lawrence Grinwell needs to be stopped. He's still not convinced they should be the ones to act, rather than the town's own law-enforcers. But, he thinks, the guard have said they can't do anything without proof, and surely there is nothing wrong with them providing that proof.

"Miri here is an excellent scout and ranger, she knows a lot about tracking in the woods. I'm sure she could track them for you. And I know we'd be able to handle the orcs." He doesn't know, not for sure. But going off the way the group had handled Willie, he suspects they'd be just fine.

"There is no need for any reward, not for doing what's right."

[Seeress of Kell]

Mirielye

Miri was sort of half-listening to Aiden as he was talking to Nathaniel about the nature of Gods and why they don't intervene directly in battle. She was inclined to agree with Aiden's point about if the Gods were to take over, and intervene the way Nathaniel seemed to think they should, that would interfere with free will. It was a pretty speech, and though she liked and was even beginning to trust Aiden, there was something that didn't quite ring true at the end of it. She wasn't sure what it was, though. She didn't think he had any dark motives for trying to deceive anyone, Aiden just didn't have it in him.


With my +3 ability modifier: [roll0]
Moreta, you shoulda known I'd jump all over that :smalltongue:


She really began to pay attention when the crying man came over to the table with Niomi. Aiden told them that Miri was a tracker and a ranger - which was true - and that he was sure she could track these orcs for them. That last part, Miri wasn't 100% sure of. Yes, she was trained, and well - but as she had already learned, putting those skills to use in the real world was a lot different than on a training ground. She would certainly try her best, though. Even if they didn't get a reward. "I know he's a paladin and all, but I'm gonna have to have a chat with Aiden about turning down rewards on behalf of the entire party - I'm not particularly bothered by it, but everyone else might not be so thrilled with that idea," she thought to herself.

[Felhammer]

NATHANIEL

Nathaniel laughs, "Men have tear ducts to get dust out of our eyes. Crying is for ladies. The fact that we can cry is merely an extension of our ability to wash out our sensitive little looking balls. The emotions of sadness, grief, etc. do not affect men in the same way as women. Real men do not cry, they just turn that negative energy into positive aggression energy. Did they not teach you anything in Church School?" The halfling quaffs a mug of beer and lets out an is exasperated sigh of the kind that a frustrated teacher uses when explaining a fundamental law of the universe to an inquisitive child.

Nathaniel becomes a bit riled up to Aiden's next series of points, "The gods invented war! They gave this vileness to us mortals. Their refusal to end the senseless bloodshed of men, women and children is testament to their ineptitude as divine beings. If you have the power, you use it. By willfully choosing to not act more fully to end hardship, death and destruction, they are in fact condoning such behavior. They give lip service to the belief of "free will" but that free will comes at too high a price. The rich get richer off the backs of the poor who only ever get poorer. The poor always bear the brunt of all the ills that plague society - war, disease, famine and death. The rich stay safe in their mansions and castles while we poor folk are left huddling in makeshift hovels trying to keep a simple fire alight to see us through to the next morn. The gods have institutionalized the concept that the poor should bear these burdens by not directly intervening and making life better for all..."

The argument is cut short by the sudden arrival of the farmer.

The halfling listens to the man's tale and bows his head. "Gah! More Orc swine! You can't trust them as far as you can throw them. They are all vile, evil and despicable! This is exactly what I was talking about Aiden, the poor bear the brunt of all the ills that plague the world." Looking back at the farmer, "We can help you... Or at least I can. I cannot speak for the others. I shall find these orcs and make them pay for the crimes they have committed against you and your family, good sir."

Nathaniel gives a sideways glance at Aiden as he refuses a reward. The warmage cannot help but smile, "Perhaps he isn't so bad after all..."

[evyldead]

Niomi

Niomi smiles "See I told you we would be happy to help."

[Sikario]

Marcus

As Marcus was in the middle of the debate between Aiden and Nathaniel he felt intimidated about the clash of opinions. For him, none of the were right. Nathaniel represented the complete opposite of Aiden, and he felt himself was about the middle of them.
Everytime we made enough courage to speak one of them jumped into a speech. By the third time he was laught inside and watched. It was a good chance for him to just listen and try understand them.
War, gods, emotions, free will, the reasoning of all of it... Marcus felt both of them were not right. But he could not reach a satifactory point either. Yet.

As Niomi came back with the farmer and he told the group his story, Aiden was fast to offer the group help and accept no reward. "Well, it's not like he has anything left to reward us with. And maybe we can build ourselves a name in Bristle if we do this right."

"I won't be so fast to judge and condemn the orcs Nathaniel. We are talking about thieves, robbers, not war criminals. The farmer wants his belongings back, but if you go on a killing spree on them they could retaliate against his family.
If we are going to do this, let's do it right. Track the orcs, find the farmer stuff, and bring back the culprits with proof." Marcus was a man of action himself, but felt that Nathaniel was going further into the realm of rage and hatred.

[Lady Moreta]

Aiden

Aiden can't help an inward sigh of relief as the farmer relates his story. Debating (arguing) with Nathaniel was both exciting and exceedingly awkward and he was just as happy to let it go for now. It was clear Nathaniel's attitudes had a lot to do with whatever had happened in his past, which, from the sounds of things, hadn't been good. Aiden was a little concerned that one day, Nathaniel's 'they're bad and they deserve to pay' attitude would push him over the line, and he was dismally convinced that he would have to stop the halfling. Thus, he was relieved to hear Marcus speak up and point out that Nathaniel was being too hasty. He didn't think it would be taken so well, coming from him.

"Good point Marcus. We can't condemn them without knowing the full story. And besides, if we can provide proof, the town guard will take it from there. The orcs will receive punishment fitting their crime." Aiden deliberately doesn't look at Nathaniel as he speaks, but he can't quite get the other man's comments out of his head. Especially the whispered one about smashing an orc's head with a rock. Clearly there is a reason Nathaniel hates orcs so much. Aiden just hopes it won't get in the way of what they're trying to do.

[Centaur Hero]

The farmer seems wicked excited about the coming help. He tells you all to meet him at his farm in the morning, and gives you directions to his farm. He then finishes his beer making small talk, and heads home.

[Cleavon]

Davos

A tribesman had been watching from a seat near the back. Sitting comfortably with a small tankard of ale and a few pieces of roast chicken on his plate he had been eating quietly and enjoying his meal. It was interesting, the sorts that had wandered into the tavern that night. Davos was a member of an offshoot of the Gleaming Scales tribe, mostly worshippers of Silver Dragons. Davos on the other hand sported a tattoo on his bare shoulder, a depiction of a dragons claw, done with a brassy colored ink. It ended just before going fully onto his face.

His meal done and the philosophical discussion that had been going on seeming to have quieted down Davos stood and approached. He had seen the farmer before on his travels to and from Bristle. He had always seemed a fine person, never cruel or harmful. Davos' tribe often had ill dealings with the denizens of the area around Bristle...

As such Davos approached, his spear fixed to his back and a quiver of javelins slung on one hip he gave a small nod of his head to the group gathered. He wore a cloth wrapping, like a robe or toga over his armor when relaxing and it hid most of his physique though he looked plenty strong enough.

"I am sorry to intrude, but my name is Davos. I am a wandering Tribesman, friend to the Gleaming Scales. I understand this man here needs help, and I would offer my aid if it is needed."

[Felhammer]

NATHANIEL

The halfling looks very cross at his compatriots, "This again!? Brigands, thieves and robbers deserve what they get. No that doesn't mean a cushy sentence in some dungeon. They deserve death. Quick and painless, mind you. We aren't torturers after all." Almost reflexively he mutters, "Not that any orc deserves such civilized treatment..."

Nathaniel sighs once more as his discussion is interrupted by the arrival of another soul. However, he puts on a good face, "Greetings Davos, friend of the Gleaming Scales. We are set to provide closure and restitution for this poor farmer by bringing the devilish fiends who stole his belongings to justice. We have opted for no reward save the feeling of righteous solidity as do-ers of good and the like. My soldie..." he catches himself for the second time today, "My companions and I would welcome another sword to our banner."

[Lady Moreta]

Aiden

Aiden slapped his face into his palm, sheer frustration written all over his features. Nathaniel was impossible to talk to. He needs to listen to mama's advice himself he thought wryly. The arrival of a new person gave him an excuse to simply ignore the halfling for the time being.

"It's good to meet you" he said aloud. "My name is Aiden Dwenner."

[Centaur Hero]

After all introductions are met, master Albrect, the innkeep, inquires as to whether you will be needing anything before he retires for the evening. He then bids you all a good night, and his son takes over the bar while the last few patrons sing their sorrows while nursing their cups of ale. When you make it up to your room, it would be spacious enough, if not for how cramped the place was with two beds and three cots in it. The morning brings a bright sunshining day, warm, with a nice breeze. Breakfast is served in the common room, and it is fried bread, eggs, and leftover pork on the menu. When you all finally make it to the farm, it is a very spacious place, but the surrounding farms all have signs on them saying,"Property of Grinwell and sons." It seems odd, that this one farm in the area has held out while so many failed. In the fields of these places, impoverished looking peoples toil. At Leopolds farm, he is already waiting for you and smiles joivially at all of you. "Would you like to take ol' Rufus with ya, te help with the trackin?"

[Felhammer]

NATHANIEL

The halfling strides confidently - nay imperiously - up to the farmer. "Greetings good sir. We shall have need of your bloodhound, if only to aid our master tracker."

[Centaur Hero]

"Very well, go on Rufus, be good." He looks at you, "Take care of him will you?"

[Felhammer]

NATHANIEL

The warmage salutes, "You have my word no harm will come to the mighty Rufus!."

[Lady Moreta]

Aiden

After a good night's sleep (albiet a crowded one), Aiden is feeling much calmer. A lengthy prayer and silent meditation when he woke also helped, and he feels much more secure in his faith and his purpose. Nathaniel's attitude still grates a little, but he can't help a slight snicker as the halfling refers to the farmer's dog as the 'mighty' Rufus. Somehow it just doesn't seem to fit.

Turning slowly, Aiden looks out over the farms visible in the area.

"You have been fortunate it seems, to have kept your farm in your own hands for so long" he comments.

[Centaur Hero]

"We'll see." is all the farmer says in responce, with a hopeless smile.

The 'Mighty' Rufus, does live up to the nickname. Bristle, being well known for it's hounds, and mastifs, does not dissapoint. Rufus has to look down on Nathaniel, and must weigh close to 120lbs, mostly muscle. Right off the bat, he takes off after the scent. Miri at first has trouble reading the signs of the orc bandits, but it's not long before Rufus's nose proves correct. It's hard to conceal a trail with farm animals leaving droppings all over along the way. Most of the rest of the day is spent following the trail, which goes in a mostly strait line due west of Bristle, and runs slightly north of and paralel to the road to Henigans stead. You see many farms in the distance in every direction for the first half of the day, one in four are abandoned. At miday, you start to see very few farms, and my midafternoon you see none. The terrain gets more and more hilly. And from the top of one hill, you see a tower in the distance, perhaps you could make it their by nightfall if you hurried. When you get to an hour before nightfall, the trail turns due north, strait towards the forrest.

[Cleavon]

Davos

Davos slept peacefully, used to sleeping on the ground for the most part. Come morning he ate sparingly and made sure everything he had was ready to go. If these farmers were truly having so much trouble in this part of the world there must be a reason. He only hoped the trouble did not spread to his tribes lands.

After securing the new companion Davos followed the group along their trail. The hound seemed quite capable, and Davos felt no need to help with the signs. He knew this land very well but was not exactly a tracker.

Once night had fallen he advised against traveling into the forest during night...his people had lost too many to ambushes and random monsters out for their evening meal. He scouted out a good place for them to make camp, wanting to make sure everyone was ready on the morrow, in case they ran into the eventual opposition.

[roll0]

"Let's try and get some rest, set out watch for the night to be careful."

[Lady Moreta]

Aiden

Aiden was secretly relieved the newcomer had suggested camping for the night before he did. Not being any kind of tracker, Aiden wasn't sure how his suggestions would be received under the circumstances, but travelling into a forest at night after a group of orcs simply didn't seem like a good idea to him.

"Agreed." He said aloud. "I am happy to take an early watch. I prefer to meditate as the sun rises."

[Felhammer]

NATHANIEL


"The tower is close. We should visit there in the morn. Until then, I agree - let us sleep well and dream of victory in battle!" The halfling shows the tiniest bit of insecurity before recovering, "I am a master spellslinger. My mind requires a full night's rest. Unless we extend out sleep schedule by a few hours, I cannot help keep watch as effectively as others." Feeling a bit vulnerable Nathaniel subtly lashes out to, perhaps, bolster his image to the group (but more to assuage his own fears of being viewed as weak/useless), "Unlike others, my spells do not come to me with a hug and a kiss..."

[Sikario]

Marcus

Marcus falls to the ground when the group announces the camping site "Finally! Why didn't we bring horses or a cart? I hate marching all day, I'm done!" he takes off his boots and leaves his backpack on the ground. He puts his head on it using it as a pillow.
He never liked long days walking, he learnt to hate them when he left the temple and spend almost a month walking. His feet still have scars where the giant blisters once were.
Marcus looks Rufus with keen eyes. I wonder if I could ride that thing...

As soon as Aiden and Nathaniel speak up about their camp preferences he sais "I guess we will all get used to this party thing as times goes by. I myself like to rest plenty of hours, and then wake up fresh as a lettuce. Today I'm just tired from the road, I can take the next guard."

While munching some dried meat, and giving a piece to Rufus, Marcus asks "Say, Davos. Why exactly do you decided to join us? I mean, I know you said you heard the farmer needs help but... who does actually just join a group of strangers in a tavern for attacking some orcs just for the good deed? Aside for Aiden."
Marcus looks at the tribesman insterested. Not that he feels he has some dark secret reason, but wondering what he was doing in that tavern and why would he just offer unpaid help.
"We could have been a band of bandits, or assasins, for all you knew. We could still be."

[Cleavon]

While munching some dried meat, and giving a piece to Rufus, Marcus asks "Say, Davos. Why exactly do you decided to join us? I mean, I know you said you heard the farmer needs help but... who does actually just join a group of strangers in a tavern for attacking some orcs just for the good deed? Aside for Aiden."
Marcus looks at the tribesman insterested. Not that he feels he has some dark secret reason, but wondering what he was doing in that tavern and why would he just offer unpaid help.
"We could have been a band of bandits, or assasins, for all you knew. We could still be."


Sitting and tending the fire, Davos looked up to Marcus and tilted his head a tiny bit. He stirred the flames about, enjoying the colors they made. He had only seen Dragonfire on a few occasions, and he had always respected normal fires since.

"You do make a good point. What would bandits or assassins have to gain from accepting to help a farmer though? You certainly could be, but if you were I doubt you'd bother to borrow a kindly mans dog as well. I admit I took a chance, but I feel confident I could have slipped off back to the Gleaming Scales lands I had gotten a poor feeling from you all once on the road."

He gave the man a smile and reached over to give Rufus a gentle pat on the head.

"You all seem genuine to me so far though. I'm not worried."

[Centaur Hero]

As you are all sitting around the fire or tending your things, or keeping watch and what not, Rufus's head *****, and he lets loose a howl to fill the night with silence for a minute afterwards. It's no long before a pair of orc's ride up to the camp, one one on a mighty warhorse, the other on a gelding. The older one says, "Elo' travlers, could we share fire and mead?" In a growling voice, and hoists a large skin, presumably filled with liquer. There is also two human youngsters who ride up a few seconds later, the older of the two announces. "You have the pleasure of meeting Sir Gronk the bold, defender of the peace of Bristle. Champion of the Bristle defence council, son of...."
Sir Gronk cuts in and says, "These people no know my dads or his dads, so shut yer yap. Now how bout tha drink?" And he pulls the cork with his teeth and pulls strongly from the skin.

[Lady Moreta]

Aiden

Aiden can't help a childish snicker at Nathaniel's words 'a hug and a kiss', which he quickly tries to disguise behind a rough clearing of the throat. He might be paranoid, but he can't help feel that Nathaniel's words were being aimed at him. This at least, is an argument he can counter - though the more he talks to the halfling, the more he remembers the second part of advice his mother gave him. You should always try to understand where another is coming from. That doesn't mean you have to agree with them though.

"I wouldn't know," he says, still grinning, "I can't cast spells yet, I'm still learning. But I certainly hope they don't come with a hug and a kiss. It sounds rather terrifying."

He's a little startled when the horses ride up, but as the orcs (and their human attendants) rise up, he moves quickly forwards. He remembers seeing these people (well, the second orc isn't familiar, but the others are) in the church of Pelor. Better to stave off suspicion before it can begin.

"Greetings. I would gladly drink with you," he says, blurting the words out before his better judgement suggests that drinking anything offered by an orc probably isn't the best of ideas. "I don't know if you saw me, but I saw you earlier, in the church of Pelor in Bristle." He adds the last bit mainly for his companions, so they know he at least, has some inkling of what is going on.

[Felhammer]

NATHANIEL

Chuckling at Aiden's nonchalance, he retorts, "Terrifying indeed."

Suddenly the orcs arrive out of now where. Nathaniel bolts into action. He grabs his dagger from beneath his bedroll, somersaults backwards ten feet, brings his blade to bear and begins to cast a spell... Then Aiden tries to be nice... "Always Aiden..." The Halfling spits on the ground, "I don't share my camp with orc swi..." He catches himself, "With orcs. Especially ones bearing weapons of war and mounted atop steeds of battle. If these lot," Nathaniel nods to his new-found friends, "Will let you stay, then I can do little to assuage their kindness. I, however, will be sleeping far away from you and your man... And don't think you will sneak up and slit my throat the way your northern kin love to do, I will," he tugs on Rufus' leash, "Have a mighty steed of my own to aid and protect me!" With that, the halfling gathers up his gear and walks all of it to the far side of the camp, perhaps twelve feet from the fire. He delicately lays out his bedroll and places his sling and spear next to him, with his dagger beneath his pillow. The warmage then sits cross legged atop his bed and glares at the so-called noble from afar.

[Lady Moreta]

Aiden

Aiden cringes a little at Nathaniel's reaction. Despite overhearing plenty of comments that suggest the halfling has a problem with orcs, he'd forgotten about it entirely, and jumped in with both feet, eager to avoid confrontation. Idiot. He fumes at himself. When will you learn to think before you act. He stands where he is, hands loose at his side, it's too late to change things now, best to just see what happens.

[evyldead]

Niomi

Niomi sits near Shepard while all of this is going on doesn't really say much just keeps a keen ear and eye out and when the orc shows up she lifts her head up. "We can share a little bit, as you can see we have only enough for our selves for only a few days travel."

[Centaur Hero]

Sir Gronk passes his Firebrandy around gladly, and hardly notices the halflings outburst, it seems that this isn't his first time dealing with the racisim of other people. The younger orc introduces himself as Alric, son of Gronk and pulls his own bottle of wine out. The younger one seems to have semi-human features as apposed to his fathers typical orc look. The older human child pulls a stick off of his horse, with three plump looking rabbits hanging from it, and says they have enough for everyone, even the 'surly looking' little man. The younger child introduces himself as well. He says his name is Willis Martell, son of Lady Martell, Archduchess of Bristle county. Grandson of Sir Kevin Martell First knight of the Bristle defence council, lord of Redstone tower. Willis seems the only one in the group who pays attention to Nathaniels outburst, and he says only, "Boy my mother would teach him some manners."

Sir Gronk mentions that they are heading on to the tower in the morning on a errand from Lady Martell, and then they are moving on to Hennigan's stead, because Sir Grank needs some sort of ointment from a woman called 'Mad' Aggie. His son, who also speaks rather like a human, says "If I may ask, what brings you lot out to the countryside? There are wolf packs that roam these hills at night, some fifteen to twenty strong." Gronk nods, and takes another sip from his skin.

[Sikario]

Marcus

"We are helping a farmer solve a dispute with thieves." sais Marcus now sitting on the ground, eager to try the mead. "We have been told some orcs are causing trouble arround here, and we got this little group together. It seems Bristle defense council had not enough proof to help him." Marcus sais it with a smirk, wanting to see his reaction. He must know something about it.

Sir Gronk was cerntainly a terrifying image to fight. And the fact that he was babysitting three young lads only told Marcus that he was capable of protect them.
Good thing he ignored the halfling. And good thing the halfling was not alone, or he would be a pulp by now.

[Centaur Hero]

Alric speaks up first. "The Bristle defence council isn't a police force, it is a commitee of representitives of various people, from tribesmen to the south, elves in the forrest to the Noth and east, Dwarves and goblins from the lumber town of Felgrove, Humans from Bristle, Hennigans stead, and Redwyne village, and giants from the Stonehills southwest of Bristle proper. The combined military strength of all these peoples has kept us from being invaded again. Brigands and thieves are a matter for the city watch."

Sir Gronk says,"We kill orc scum with you." The young buy bursts out,"Sir Gronk, you know mother has an important message for my grandfather, we don't have time." Gronk replies. "Fine then, take Alric with you, e' knows this lan' well nuf. 'Is lance is as good as anyones."

Alric nods, "I would be happy to assist if I you allow me." Again, his softspokeness surprises all of you. Especially when compared to his father.

[Felhammer]

NATHANIEL

The halfling rests his hand atop Rufus' head and continues to watch the orcs in utter silence.

[Lady Moreta]

Aiden

Aiden is nodding to himself, this orc is surprisingly soft-spoken and far more erudite than his father. Aiden has no problem with him coming, but he is also painfully aware of Nathaniel's unhappy stance on the other side of the fire. He finally decides to let the others choose without his input, it seems that every time he opens his mouth of late, he just puts his foot in it anyway.

[Cleavon]

Davos

Listening to the two orcs talk, and taking a swallow the firebrandy when it came his way, Davos knew enough about the Bristle Defense Council. Members of his tribe had been serving on the council for some number of years. Making sure to keep his ear on what the orcs were saying, he gave a small smile when the larger orc offered the help of his son.

"I don't see the harm in having Alric with us. You seem like stout, kind folk."

He looked to Nathaniel for a moment, giving him a kind smile, the tribesmans eyes moving from the small man back over to the orcs.

"I'm sure we won't have any trouble, past the thieves of course."

[Felhammer]

NATHANIEL

The halfling snorts derisively, "He better hold his own in combat. I will not tolerate neophytes in my arm... Or rather, this adventuring party. I will not be held accountable if he dies due to poor training."

[Sikario]

Marcus

marcus speaks directly to Alric "You know this lands and you could provide a nice diplomatic advance against the orcs we are looking for. And you can help us figure out how Bristle will handle this thieves. I see no disadvantage in bringing you with us."
"And it sure is going to piss off the halfling." Marcus smiles for himself.

[Lady Moreta]

Aiden

"No one is suggesting you'd be held accountable Nathaniel," Aiden says, a little irritated now. He realises Nathaniel obviously has some problem with orcs, and that it's probably a very valid reason. The halfling's constant references to their group as being 'his' and an army and any other number of words and phrases he's used are starting to get on Aiden's nerves however. "I think we have agreed that Alric will be joining us. I suggest it might be time to get back to that sleeping thing we were talking about earlier." He finishes his sentence with a grin, hoping to dispel any lingering tension.

[Felhammer]

NATHANIEL

The halfling nods to Aiden, "If you trust this child, then so be it. He's certainly not my responsibility. I don't want to deal with a raging, mournful barbarian when we have to inform him his son was killed by wolves... Or worse." Turning his attention to Alric, "Best keep your eyes peeled, son, because life on the road is far more dangerous than any sort of ride-a-long you've experienced as a squire. Don't let these... Adventurers teach you about compassion. Thieves will strike when you least expect it and will not hesitate to gut you like a swine just to steal the handful of copper that rests comfortably in your pocket. Never accept parlay from a thief and always mete out swift, road-side justice. When in doubt, go for the throat. If necessary, hog tie them and drag them into town. Don't let brigands and highwaymen get off scot-free just because they sing a sad tune or start crying." The last comment is directed more at his fellow companions who showed mercy than to the orc. Nathaniel lays down on his side, with his back facing Rufus, "Wake me in the morn... Friends. May you dream of glorious battle and ale."

[Centaur Hero]

The second the halfling says "squire" Alric get's up, and says he is going to keep first watch, and walks of, and starts walking a wide circle of the camp. Gronk just snorts, and puts his head on the nearest rock, and begins his slumber, covered in silk blankets, you notice he has a matching pillow, but his axe head is resting on it. The older human takes the que, and lays out his bedroll and goes to sleep.

After everyone who is sleeping during the first watch, gets ready, and Gronks snores cut through the camp like a sawmill. The youngest human walks up to Nathaniel. "Sir, I don't know why you don't like Sir Gronk and his kid, sure Gronk has his quirks, but Alric is a nice enough fellow. The reason he was hurt at your words, was during his training at the castle all the other armsmen, and squires in training used to pick on him, and tell him his father was no true knight. Of course, any other knight who has dueled with Sir Gronk has found the ground faster than a falling rock. Unless it was a joust duel, Sir gronk comes in close to last in jousting tournaments every year. That's why mother has me squiring for him instead of some gentlemen, she says combat is combat, and jousting is a game. But anyways, when all the knights picked squires after the last youngling tournament, nobody picked Alric as his squire, even though he won the Melee event, and came runner up in the joust. He was passed up because of his heritage. Surely someone who is only the size of a child could understand predjudices. If not for Sir Gronk, who has spurned his Grummsh worshipping kin, Bristle would have fallen years ago to the seige of the horde. He held the last couple of waves back almost singlehandedly when my mother and her companians were fighting the dragon. Then his rallying of the men, and daring counterattack broke the spirits of the invaders. And do you know what reward he asked for himself? Nothing but the right to continue service to Lady Martell, my mother. And a better life for his future children than he could have offered on the plains. All the local orc tribes hate Sir Gronk. But they fear and respect him as well."

"If you can't find it in your heart to be kind to them, then that is fine, but one thing I will not tolerate is disrespect. Sir Gronk is a truer knight than any man in the realm, with more heart, and more courage than ten men." With that, the child lord walks off not waiting for any response, and goes to take watch with Alric.

The night passes by very quietly, except for Gronks snoring, and when the sun comes up, it is a bright day, with the birds chirping, and the Bullettes are burrowing peacefully off in the distance.

[Sikario]

Marcus

Marcus wakes up after a bad sleep because of Sir Gronks's snoring, and checks if Nathaniel's throat has been slit. Once he notices the halfling is unharmed he smiles. "Good people after all."

He eats up his poor travel rations and equips himself. "I would like to leave early, if the track goes into the forest and night caught us again, we would be too close to camp without risk."

Marcus spends the rest of the time messing with Rufus. He never had a pet and he is finding out he loves them. Big, strong, reliable, and drooly. He unconsciously looks at Gronk and immediately looks away. If the orc found out the kind of comparison he was making in his mind he would probably plant him in the ground like a turnip.
Marcus was a strong young man himself. But he respected and old warrior experience far more than his muscles.

[Felhammer]

NATHANIEL

The warmage considers the words of the halfling-squire. Perhaps he had been too hard on this orc. War had soured him on the entire race but... As Aiden would say, people have free will. Perhaps this orc was not the blood thirsty variety that Nathaniel had fought. Perhaps this orc truly was good at heart... No... Such creatures do not exist. Orcs are vile, barbarous and evil to the core... Yet, this one was not. The evidence was before him. This orc was not blood thirsty nor power hungry. He did not rape and pillage, nor even insult, the party... The halfling sighs. Obviously he was rude, especially to the boy. At least part of him was human and yet Nathaniel could not see past the boy's orc heritage... "Gah!" thinks the warmage, "The south is a strange mistress. She is not as obvious or as straightforward as the north. I should keep that in mind for the future..." With that, Nathaniel rests his back against ole' Rufus and falls asleep.

Nathaniel rises in the morn. He does as he has for twenty years - twists to the left, twists to the right, touches his toes and reaches for the sky. With his stretches over, Nathaniel dons his armor, then sets on his knees for fifteen minutes clearing his mind and steeling his heart. Following his daily ritual, the halfling bites into his less than appetizing ration and nods in agreement with Marcus, "Indeed. An early morning will mean a better chance of finding those we seek."

[Cleavon]

Davos

Davos had settled in for the night when The young noble boy made his speech. It was quite well thought out, and told much of their new companions. When Nathaniel had nothing to say to it, Davos was glad for it. Best to think of things and perhaps apologize later, if he intended to. Davos soon drifted off to sleep.

Upon waking he gathered up his things and began to get ready to head off. He never tarried long on journeys, so expected to leave once everyone had been roused.

"Do we have a set location or are we going to be scouring an area for those that we seek?"

[evyldead]

Niomi

"In the morning I'll go and scout out the area for us. lets get some sleep now.

[Lady Moreta]

Aiden

The first thing Aiden thinks when he wakes in the morning is relief that Sir Gronk won't be coming with them. He's sure the man is handy in a fight, but his snoring is not conducive to a good night's rest. Ignoring everyone else, he turns to face the sun and kneels, hands resting lightly on his knees for quiet meditation. Feeling his connection to Pelor restored and renewed, he eyed his armour then decided to eat before putting it back on.

"Agreed also" he nods at Marcus and Nathaniel. "The faster we find these orcs, the sooner the farmer and his family can have their things back." Aiden cringes a little as soon as he speaks. He wanted to seem less argumentative than the previous day, but stating the bleeding obvious probably wasn't the most intelligent way to go about it. You're an idiot. He thinks, you should know better than to open your mouth before mid-morning.

[Centaur Hero]

It takes Rufus no time at all to find the trail again, and it heads right to the forrest, and follows a little game trail. Alric takes the rearguard as you enter, and keeps his eyes peeled for an ambush. In less than an hour's travel in the ancient pine wood, you come upon a stream, and hear the sounds of waterfalling. When you get to the falls, you see the water dropping fifteen feet or so to the pool below, and there is a spray filling the air nearby. The trail zigzags down one side of the falls, and goes in behind the waterfall. Behind the watery curtain, is a wooden door.

Balance DC-5 to not slip on the ledge behind the waterfall.

[Sikario]

Marcus

If the water seems to be deep and Marcus could drow he would not take the risk. Is there any way to make the roll automatically? Like choosing 10 by helping himself against the wall or something?
If there is no way, maybe there is time for him to take his armor off first? I would hate to lose him drowned in a pond.
Balance with armor[roll0]

Well, I was worried for nothing.

"A door? Very sophisticated for a cave hideout." Marcus smiles at the chance that the thieves have decorated the cave with carpets and chandeliers.

Once they reach the door, he grabs the handle and looks at the others before checking if it is open. "Slow or fast?"

[Seeress of Kell]

Mirielye

Miri has been quiet lately, still afraid to say much after the fiasco at the Full Moon Inn. But as they near this hideout, with its treacherous path to the doorway, she feels very much in her element. Elves are known for being nimble, and she figures it should be easy for her to nip down to the doorway without falling. Sure enough, she scampers down without a problem, making it look incredibly easy. That restores a little bit of her confidence in herself, knowing that she can do something right.

Marcus asks if he should open the door slow or fast, but Miri has another suggestion. "Why not listen first and see if we hear anyone moving about? If we hear something, we should probably go quickly - the element of surprise will be on our side. But if we don't, we can probably go slow and maybe surprise whoever's in there when we do encounter them."


Just in case everyone agrees it's a good idea - and because I have a +9 to Listen.
[roll0]

[Felhammer]

NATHANIEL

The halfling crouches down low and surveys the area, "An excellent hiding place. I dare say if we did not have a master tracker and a blood hound with us, we may never have chanced upon this den. We should be cautious and quiet. Surprise and foreknowledge are our best allies right now. Without looking at the boy, Nathaniel adds, "Steel your heart and ready your blade, young Alric - we are about to go to war..."

[Lady Moreta]

Aiden

Aiden makes it down without falling on his ass, or falling into the water, by virtue of slow and extremely careful movement. He's almost annoyed at the ease with which Miri makes the same journey. Steadying himself with one hand on the rock wall, he opens his mouth to object to Marcus' haste but Miri beats him to it.

"Good idea Miri," he says as quietly as he can and still be heard over the waterfall. "Whatever speed we use, we need to be careful. Not all of us are as nimble as elves and I'd hate to fall in that water." He glances down and grimaces, no, going for a swim in full armour does not sound like a good idea

[Seeress of Kell]

Mirielye

Miri can't help but grin at Aiden's quip about everyone not being nimble as elves - particularly when added to the look on his face as he looks down at the water. "Maybe if you weren't wearing all that armor, you might not sink like a rock," she said quietly, still grinning. Now everybody hush, I'm trying to listen." She leans over and puts her ear to the door.

[evyldead]

Niomi

Niomi nods and says quietly [COLOR="#800000"]"Miri is right about seeing if we can hear anything. Mind if I help you Miri? An elves ear can be very useful in times like these."[COLOR="#800000"] Niomi comes over and puts her ear to the door next to Miri.
[roll0]

[Seeress of Kell]

Mirielye

Miri spends a few seconds listening closely and trying to distinguish all the sounds she's hearing. Definitely animals, chickens and sheep for the most part. There's a strange gnawing sound, like some sort of large animal chewing on a bone. "Hopefully a dog, and not something bigger and weirder," she thought to herself. At last, she does manage to hear a few guttural voices - not clearly enough to make out any words, but there nonetheless. Not that she could understand them anyway, she doesn't speak Orcish.

She turns and relays all of this information to the rest of the party. "Now the question is still 'fast or slow?' It's most likely our orcs are in the main room here, but so are all of the animals. We don't want to hurt the animals, we want to return them to the farmer. But they are definitely going to cause some chaos if we spook them. Suggestions?"

[Cleavon]

Davos

Davos had made his way down the precarious way to the door and stood silent for now. He closed his eyes and when he opened them a wash of Brassy color came over them for a mere second, and the air around the party felt a tiny bit warmer. Nothing would come of it, and the feeling would subside after a few seconds, but now if any of them should be struck the aura he provides would lash out at their attackers.

Deals 2 Fire damage to attackers when struck. Effects anyone with 30 feet of Davos.

Listening to the information Miri was able to glean from her time listening Davos was a bit perplexed. He had not expected farm animals to be what they found behind the door.

"A strange turn of events. Could they be using them as an alarm? Or to feed a larger beast, or themselves? It seems strange to keep them at the front entrance. Perhaps we've found the back?"

[evyldead]

Niomi

"Lets see if we can negotiate? I mean It doesn't hurt anyone to see if they are willing to talk. That's if they were hired or something. If not I'm sure Shepard could use that time to burn off some steam." Niomi smiles while she says this.

[Felhammer]

NATHANIEL

The halfing smiles as he rises to the bait, "Negotiation should only be entered into once you have the upper-hand. Break their will to fight and they will surrender unconditionally. We rush in, rough them up (perhaps kill a few) then we allow them to beg for parlay. Only then will we get what we want." With a grunt he adds, "If you insist on meeting the thieves face to face and negotiating before breaking their will, I say we hold some of our big guns back. Lure the thieves into a false sense of security. We will use a special call which will be the cue for the cavalry to rush in. I propose the term, "ducks in a row." It is distinctive, easily added to casual conversation and perfect for what we need."

[Lady Moreta]

Aiden

"It could simply be that this cave is all there is." Aiden murmurs. Not, he supposes, that it really matters. He listens intently to the others, ignoring the voice of his father in the back of his mind telling him 'this is the point where you should be stepping up and taking charge.' Yes, he tells the voice irritably. Because they're going to listen to me, the one with no experience whatsoever. Besides which, he rather thinks Nathaniel has a point.

"I actually agree with Nathaniel," he says, grinning at the halfling. "I'll be the first to admit I have no real experience in this sort of thing, but it strikes me as - well, just sensible to get them off-balance before we try and negotiate. Even if they've been hired by someone else, they're more likely to tell us who if they're a little..." He trails off, utterly unable to think of the correct way of phrasing what he means. "I just mean that if they're off-balance, unsure, it will make them more hesitant to act" he says finally. "No killing!" Aiden hastens to add. "Not unless it's absolutely necessary."

[Felhammer]

NATHANIEL

The halfling pats the middle of Aiden's back (if he stood a bit taller, the warmage would have patted the paladin's shoulder) and half-jokingly says, "You would make a poor soldier but... The world needs soft-hearted folks like you. Makes the grim tasks we men-at-arms do worth fighting for.

[Lady Moreta]

Aiden

Aiden cringes a little at Nathaniel's words, even though he can tell from the halfling's tone he isn't completely serious. To be sure, Aiden has no desire to be a soldier, at least, not the way Nathaniel seems to mean it. But, to be a warrior of Pelor, a soldier of his god, that is all Aiden has ever wanted to be and it... hurts to think that this man doesn't think he has it in him. A slight frown mars Aiden's face and he withdraws into himself, letting the conversation of the others flow over and around him. Right now, he doesn't really care about his father's 'you must take charge' advice, he'll be happy to just do whatever the others decide. Right now, he just wants to understand at what point he started caring what Nathaniel thought of him and his ability to fight. I didn't mean it like that he thinks. I just meant that we shouldn't kill without good reason. No one should. If more people thought that way then there'd be less people like Nathaniel in the world. But he can't see if, and I think he'd try to kill me if I ever suggested it. Who are we to play gods? Aiden shifts his shoulders under his chain shirt, feeling distinctly uncomfortable with the entire situation.

I too, have no idea at what point Aiden decided he wants/needs Nathaniel's approval. It just - came out, when I was writing this post. Expect him to bring it up at some point. :smallsmile:

[Cleavon]

http://i538.photobucket.com/albums/ff343/BrujahKirk/Cave1_zpsa2d552d6.png (http://s538.photobucket.com/user/BrujahKirk/media/Cave1_zpsa2d552d6.png.html)

[evyldead]

Niomi

Niomi shrugs in aggrement. "I agree with the whole barging in thing, but what If they are waiting for someone to come to them? I mean I'll go in and try to be convincing or Miri or someone and they will try to be convincing and then if they get to close or draw weapons you guys just simply rush in and knock some heads together. I mean I have no idea on what to say in there I guess I could just wing it. But if no one agrees with me then I am perfectly fine with barging in there right now. I'm simply just adding a second option of getting them to talk."

[Sikario]

Marcus

Marcus closes his eyes and grabs his forehead. "Why couldn't they discuss this on the way here? How do they think NOW is a good moment?" He stands there, with his sword in one hand, resting in his shoulder, waiting for the group to end his talking. He even watches with surprise how Nathaniel joins the discussion "Unbelievable, even you!"
This is not how he imagined adventuring.

"Well, when you guys decide that enough time has passed for them to notice the group of voices talking at their door and preparing for us, tell me." He looks at the others, now silent. "We need to talk about working as a team when we return."

Marcus opens the door and casually enters the room, as if it was his home. Walks to the middle of the room and waits there for the others to enter. "Good morning, anyone here speaks common?"

I guess Marcus is at B5, he walks to I6 unless the orc at F5 attacks him.

[Cleavon]

http://i538.photobucket.com/albums/ff343/BrujahKirk/CaveMap3_zps906b0a3d.png (http://s538.photobucket.com/user/BrujahKirk/media/CaveMap3_zps906b0a3d.png.html)

I put Marcus at B5. The door may be locked, or otherwise un able to be opened. I'll update again once we get the information on how interacting with the door works out.

Also, that is a Sheep. I only put Chickens and Sheep on the map because we know them to be in there. Once the door opens we might see more (And probably more dangerous) stuff.

[Felhammer]

NATHANIEL

The halfling curses under his breath at the haste with with Marcus enacts the plan. Making a snap judgment, Nathaniel grabs the wrist of Alric and swings him to the side. The two rest flat against the wall, out of sight from those within.

[Centaur Hero]

When the door opens, Marcus sees only the animals moving about. Halfway across the room is a dead cow, and behind it, two orcs stand with bows at the ready. Another is running to a door in the back of this cave, seemingly to call for reinforcments. However, the scariest part is what is whats standing just to the side of the dead cow, with blood dripping from it's jaws. A large wolf, bares its teeth in a low growl, and begins to advance, it's glowing red eyes seem to have an inteligence about them, though, it seems to have no interest in talking.

[Cleavon]

http://i538.photobucket.com/albums/ff343/BrujahKirk/CaveMap4_zps27668566.png (http://s538.photobucket.com/user/BrujahKirk/media/CaveMap4_zps27668566.png.html)

This map takes into account Marcus moving into the room, placing him where the DM instructed me to.

[Felhammer]

NATHANIEL

Laughing to himself, the halfling lets go of Alric and yells, "Surrender, Orcs! We have you outmatched! You will not survive a confrontation with Shepherd's Army! We will gut you like pigs and leave your corpses for the crows!"

[roll0]

[Centaur Hero]

NATHANIEL

Laughing to himself, the halfling lets go of Alric and yells, "Surrender, Orcs! We have you outmatched! You will not survive a confrontation with Shepherd's Army! We will gut you like pigs and leave your corpses for the crows!"

[roll0]

The orc who is fleeing, seems to run a little faster at the door, upon hearing Nathaniels bold words. The other's prepare to fire.

The Javelin Davos throws sinks into the wolf, who was too slow to dodge.

So, the Javelin hit's for 4 damage.

Marcus bravely charges the wolf, and his attack barely misses the foul beast.

The wolf attacks back!
The wolf sinks his teeth into your leg, and you feel him try to rip your feet out from under you. 5 damage, and pass a DC-12 strength check or fall prone.

The wolf seems a little suprised when flames burst from Marcus, causing a singe along his jawline.

One of the archers fires at Davos.
The orc hit's you with the bow, but it's only a flesh wound to the side. 3 damage from the bow.

The other fires at Miri, but the arrow flies harmlessly out the door into the water below.

The fleeing orc runs up to the door, and begins to open it.

The mighty Rufus charges up next to Marcus and bites the wolf, blood flows from the wound, and the wolf howls.
He rolled good! 5 damage to wolf. Total of 11 damage so far.

Alric enters the room, sword and shield drawn, and advances on the archers.
Alric moves to H6.

[Lady Moreta]

Aiden

Seeing Marcus go down under the wolf, Aiden makes an odd strangled sound in the back of his throat and hastily moves forward, drawing his sword as he does.

"Miri, don't let him reach the door!" He yells, jerking his head towards the orc heading for the back of the cave, before sliding between the angry wolf and Marcus.

If there's enough room between Marcus and the wolf to get between them, do that. If not, go to E6, to be right next to him.

Aaand... that's all I can do, because I'm a **** and forgot to have Aiden draw his sword beforehand :smallsmile:

[Seeress of Kell]

Mirielye

Miri hears Aiden's shout just in time, as she was preparing to shoot the wolf that decided to make a snack out of Marcus. Instead, she turns and aims for the Orc that's running for the door.


Since I just came in, there's a possibility this Orc may be within 30ft of me. If so, I get a +1 to both Attack and Damage (Point Blank Shot).

[Centaur Hero]

Aiden

Seeing Marcus go down under the wolf, Aiden makes an odd strangled sound in the back of his throat and hastily moves forward, drawing his sword as he does.

"Miri, don't let him reach the door!" He yells, jerking his head towards the orc heading for the back of the cave, before sliding between the angry wolf and Marcus.

If there's enough room between Marcus and the wolf to get between them, do that. If not, go to E6, to be right next to him.

Aaand... that's all I can do, because I'm a **** and forgot to have Aiden draw his sword beforehand :smallsmile:

Marcus is adjacent to the wolf, so you base the wolf next to Marcus.

Miri's arrow grazes the running orc, but he continues to run on.
The orc takes 1 damage.

[Cleavon]

http://i538.photobucket.com/albums/ff343/BrujahKirk/NewCave2_zps23825703.png (http://s538.photobucket.com/user/BrujahKirk/media/NewCave2_zps23825703.png.html)

This should be everyone except for the Niomi, with Updated Positions. Once I know Niomis actions I can quickly update to cover her first turn as well.

[Centaur Hero]

Niomi runs around the wolf, to move in for a flank.

[Felhammer]

NATHANIEL

The halfing sighs as he realizes this cadre of men-at-arms he had joined up with were more like boys with sticks than soldiers with swords. He would endeavor to teach them tactics and teamwork at some point... Surveying the area, Nathaniel notes that the orc he scared is likely running to cower with allies. He was obviously the most important target. Thinking through the various spells he knows, he decides Magic Missile would be the best weapon for this job. The warmage points his finger at the orc and yells, "COWARD! YOU SHALL NOT RETREAT!" A needle-like thorn of force shoots out of his finger and slams into the enemy's back.

Magic Missile the orc in square Q-4. Damage: [roll0]

[Centaur Hero]

The missle slams into the fleeing orcs back as he runs, and although he shrieks in pain, he keeps on running, obviously on his last legs. Davos's Javelin flies harmlessly past the orc behind the cow.

[Centaur Hero]

Marcus cast's his spell while fending off the wolves jaws. The orc at the door opens it, steps in and reaches to pull it closed. The wolf attacks Aiden.

Hit! Aiden takes 7 damage and needs to pass a DC -16 strength check to not be tripped.

It's jaws sink deeply into the thigh of the paladin, and the wolf tries desperately to pull the leg out from under him.

One orc fires at Alric and the arrow thuds off the wall behind him.

The other fires at Miri and the arrow hit's center mass in the torso.


Alric moves to melee with an archer and swings. His mighty blow brings down the enemy archer. His sword cut deeply into the orc's chest.

Rufus tries to bite the wolf, but the wolf fends the attack off.

[Lady Moreta]

Aiden

Aiden lets loose with am embarrassing yelp, that turns into an angry and pained "Blast it to-" hastily cut off on what was probably a swear word of some kind as the wolf trips him and he falls flat on his ass. Fuming, and now thoroughly annoyed, Aiden ignores the inherent danger in provoking the wolf further and stands up, taking a swing at the animal.

Standing up and attacking.
Attack: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

[Centaur Hero]

The wolf tries to bite Aiden as he stands up, but his jaws snap just shy of flesh. He takes the slash across the side with a growl.
the wolf has taken 16 damage. Whoops, 18 because it burned him to bite Aiden in the first place.

[evyldead]

Niomi

Niomi goes to take a hit to the wolf and to kill it fast
Attack - [roll0] Add 2 If flanking
Damage - [roll1]
Sneak Attack if flanking [roll2]

[Centaur Hero]

The wolf snarls at you as you sink your Minerva into his flesh. It then looks at you and says in a snarling voice, " You'll die for that, elf!"
23 damage taken.

[Seeress of Kell]

Mirielye

Miri yelps in pain as the arrow strikes her in the torso. She's never felt pain quite like that before, and she just hopes that it didn't hit anything vital. It takes everything she's got to stay standing.

She also hears the wolf speak - "A speaking wolf? What in the bluest of blue hells..." she thinks to herself. "Something's definitely not right there..." After looking very carefully at this 'wolf,' Miri realizes it's not a wolf at all but a worg. Though she'd previously been shooting that fleeing orc, after the worg revealed itself by speaking, she decides maybe it would be more important to take it out first. Summoning up all the willpower she can muster to push herself past the pain, she fires at the talking wolf, almost passing out from the pain when she releases her bowstring.

[Centaur Hero]

The Worg's head just barely ducks under the shaft of the arrow flying by, and he growls in response.

[Felhammer]

NATHANIEL

The halfling sighs as he watches his allies struggle against such paltry opposition. "Focus men! Civilized folk will see victory, not these barbarous worshipers of that One-Eyed Bastard!" The warmage conjures a ball of electricity in his hands. He looks at each of his potential targets and decides the wolf is the most dangerous, especially given how it seems to be mangling Aiden. "Die you mangy mutt! DIE!" Nathaniel hurls the orb of cackling lighting at the worg, awaiting the sweet sent of fried wolf to waft to his nostrils soon after...

Stay where I am and hurl an Orb of Electricity, Lesser at the Worg

Ranged Touch Attack: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1] of electricty damage

[Centaur Hero]

The worg's hairs stand up on end as the ball of energy slams into it. It howls in pain, and barely seems able to keep it's paws underneath him. The remaining archer starts to look a little worried, and looks like he could bolt any second.

29 damage

[Cleavon]

Davos

Coming forward Davos figured that his javelins wouldn't be as much help now that melee combat was so closely entered. He unslung his longspear from his back as he moved and stabbed over Aidens shoulder at the wolf.

A second later the aura surrounding him changed as well, becoming a more cool and soothing energy that washed over those nearby.

Moving up to I7 and drawing longspear as part of my move action. Single attack with reach from behind Aiden.

(Wolf gains +4 ac due to cover)

Attack
[roll0]

Damage
[roll1]

Swift action, switch Aura to Vigor, anyone within 30 feet that is under half Hp gains Fast Healing 1