The 8 Guilds of Xil

[Oko and Qailee]

It's Summer 1:1, the first official day of summer and the Festival of Guilds is being held at Pamelon, the largest city in the Nation of Xil. Many people are buzzing about, some look rich and important walking around with expensive dresses and fancy cloaks, others seem to be clear applicants for guilds, carrying a variety of weapons, magic staffs, robes, bows, and more. Finally, some just seem to be normal citizens, just here to celebrate, enjoy free food, and look at those awesome guild performers.

Walk around as well are many gentlemen, all dressed in the same blue suit with silver trimmings. Stitched on the shoulders of each of these suits is the crest of Xil's largest guild, Guilde.
http://s29.postimg.org/907ojk9vb/Gilde.png
Each of them carrys a large tray with many glasses filled with wine or food. As they walk around many people grab something off the tray. Whenever a tray is emptied (which seem to occur rapidly) the gentlemen make their way away from the crowds towards the location of Gilde.

All abuzz are many topics of conversation.
"Ha! Check out Cherry Home?! Thats a laugh."
"Certainly, Torwin from Millenium Sphinx will be promoted to a Major guild this year."
"Do you happen to know what the contest will be tonight? I heard it will be a battle of wits like last Festival."
"Man, those guys from Guilde were kinda rude..."
"Minka sounds like a lot of work, I think I should look at something like Silver Flag or Innocent"

In the crowd are 8 individuals, none of them quite standing out from many of the other individuals walking around, at least not today. In addition to your starting equipment you have nine tickets. Both tickets have the same hotel and room number, but one of them has written on it "KEEP THIS" and the others have written "Submit to guild <insert guildname> if interested." You also have a rough map of Pamelon that shows Gilde, Silver Flag, and Millennium Sphinx are located towards the center of the city. The other guilds, Cherry Home (Northeast), Innocent (Southeast), Minka (Southwest), and Porter Chill (Northwest), are located in the farther corners of the city. Klanen is in the west most section of the city.


The 5 of you have entered from the east gate of Pamelon, by far the most common point of entry and it is extremely crowded. Many people bump into you, very few apologize, and some even look angry as though it's your fault. None of the Gilde servers offer you anything as they are being mobbed badly enough to the point where it almost looks small riots of people are going on.



You two have entered from the south, while still populated by people, it is not extremely crowded. With more room to breathe and look around you can more easily see the buildings, other people, and even each other. A Gilde server approaches Ioriston and offers him a glass of wine off a tray.

"Some wine, complements of Gilde, noble elf?"


(If you guys could describe your characters on your first post (especially Jot since he can be 8 different people), that would be awesome. I realize some of you described them on your sheets, but if possible I'd like it here also.)

[Samah]

Chistara looked about her with a small grimace. For all that she'd spent the majority of her life traveling to different fairs and festivals with her family's merchant caravan she never could get past her dislike of crowds. She was tall, standing at six feet in stockings, and rather broad in the shoulders. Her clothing consisted of a simple linen shirt, heavy cotton trousers and leather boots beneath her chainmail. The only thing truly lovely about her were her eyes. Set beneath a broad forehead and straight eyebrows they were the clear, warm amber/brown of sunlight through good whiskey. Sharp cheek bones slid down into a narrow chin and a full mouth gave her face an almost triangular cast. The whole of it topped with a shaggy mop of hair in an indeterminate shade of brown. Gazing down at her map, tickets in her Handy Haversack, she decided to make her way towards Cherry Home; surely it was as good a place to start as any.

[JanusJones]

He was small, bald, tanned and scarred, worn like his leather breeches. He looked like a young man gone old fast. He looked like a mile of hard road, cold nights, mean food and lack of company.

He was all those things.

He stood unnoticed in the crowd - perhaps intentionally so. He stuck out. He was dressed for the road, where he came from and where he'd lived for more years now than he could count. He knew nothing of this, and it showed in the quick moves of his hooded eyes, the furtive twitch of a hand near the massive, glossy bow on his back, the subtle expressions that flickered over his face, fast as the shadow of a cloud on water.

To Arrow, it was a wash of smell. The stink of stale sweat drenched in cloying flowery perfume, the soap scent of the daily washed, the hard edge of steel here and there like a cat's claw in a playful paw. And everywhere the sweet stench of wine, the sour of beer, the fake smiles and shakes and the wiles behind them.

Not for the first time, he questioned his motives.

These people didn't live in his world. These people had never chased a slaver band through a dark night in a driving rain, never caught an arrow in the leg, never buried a thirteen year old girl, white limbs skinny in the mud, who would never have been whipped to death if he'd only been a moment sooner.

He'd come to try to do something bigger. The Guilds were given something he'd never had: the prestige and power to make a real difference. To change things for more than just one or two, here and there - to do something real, something that would last.

But, standing among them, he couldn't help but think ...

Maybe he wouldn't. Maybe he couldn't. He didn't belong here, and he knew it.

And so did they.

He nervously fingered the tickets, flicking through them with quick, sure, hard fingers with bowman's callouses.

What to do now?

[sparky9042]

Ioriston stood, tall and gaunt for an elf, short among the humans nonetheless. The chain shirt and buckler he wore over his durable leather clothes and rich bronze skin perhaps spoke too much of him -- they were of fine elven mithral, crafted for rangers and scouts to ensure that they would be able to move about in the field. Ioriston chose them because he needed some form of protection in the rare occasion that he could not forsee an attack, and because an ordinary suit of armor would be too heavy. The elf maintained short, neat silvery-grey hair, which framed a face that was unextraordinary except for a pair of deep amber eyes.

This was unusual. Someone had referred to him as "noble". Though, he supposed, it made perfect sense. The man was a server. He was representing what was supposed to be the most well-known, wealthy, and prominent of the minor guilds in Xil and Ioriston was wearing nice-looking armor. Oddly enough, Ioriston carried no weapons, so unless the server was capable of deducing correctly from the presence of his psicrystal that he was a psion, and therefore useful to Gilde in some capacity (and, really, any of the other minor guilds), that he would be offered wine in a crowd would be odd. Perhaps it was his heritage as an elf that led to this word choice? At any rate he would hardly have been referred to as noble among other elves -- at least, he hasn't from his own experience in his life.

"You flatter me, kind sir. I would hardly consider myself noble."

Nonetheless, with a polite smile and nod at the waiter, Ioriston removes a glass of wine from the tray, though he does not put it to his lips immediately, merely holding it in his hands as a sign of good manners at first, then sipping from it slowly.

[Oko and Qailee]

Chistare begins to make her way through the crowd towards Cherry Home, as she does she begins to notice the crowd thinning... to the point where there is nearly no one present at all as she continues to head north. Additionally, the building quality deteriorates as she moves northward as well. The wood becomes older, windows darker, flags tattered, and streets filled with trash.

Knowledge (History) (16): Chistare knows that, in all but a few circumstance, the guild in charge of the festival chooses where the other guilds are set up.


As arrow stares at his tickets nervously, a voice begins from behind him.

"Baldy, ain't you an ugly lost bastard, need help finding your way to Baby Home? Or Trashicent?"


Even with just a sip Ioriston can make out how poor the wine is. It tasted as if they had watered down a cheap wine, with the only taste being a tiny bit of sourness.

[Valery]

Fife McDougal sauntered through the crowded streets cautiously, trying not to bring too much attention to himself. He hid under a crimson hood. Underneath the hood was a pale-faced man with light red hair and a scar in the shape of four thin lines that stretched down the the left side of his face. His auburn colored eyes scanned the crowd behind small shaded lenses, while his thin lips twitched uneasily against the radiant sun light. He hadn't been in a huge crowd in quite some time.

A small boy trudged into him ever so slightly, but Fife, not giving any attention to what was going on below the height of the crowd, was startled to the point of screaming. He instinctively leaped in the air crying out, "Not yet my Queen!!!", before scampering off into an area of town where he felt most un-threatened, Cherry Home.

Knowledge Local on Cherry Home: (1d20+1)[15]
Knowledge Local on Minka: Using Bardic Knowledge (1d20+5) [20]

[JanusJones]

As arrow stares at his tickets nervously, a voice begins from behind him.

"Baldy, ain't you an ugly lost bastard, need help finding your way to Baby Home? Or Trashicent?"

Arrow nods. His eyes flick over the man quickly - hands, belt, back, stance - and eyes. Last of all eyes.

Smell, of course, comes without effort, and first.

[Autopsibiofeeder]

Jot (Girelda)

The young woman, perhaps 24 years old, peers lazily around. She wears tight dark brown pants and a nice white shirt with some flowery decorative embroidery. Underneath it, the trained observer notices a very fine chain shirt. A small dagger is sheathed at her right hip. With her golden hair and warm blue eyes, most men would agree she is very easy on the eyes, and her demeanor shows she is well aware of that.

Earlier, she had been looking at her tickets and had shrugged, putting them away again. She had decided she would let fate run its course, and see if any of the guilds would be looking to court her: Girelda is not much of a planner. Jot, however, had already decided that he would make a sport out of joining as many guilds as possible. Peter might have a look at the Silver flag, for example. That's not important for now, though. With such a big festival going on, Girelda was mostly looking forward to the events, a party perhaps. There should be enough men out there willing to buy her a drink or two.

[sparky9042]

Ioriston tried his best not to recoil or display any sort of shock at the rather bland excuse for wine. Really, this should've been expected - wine is expensive, after all, and even Gilde cannot afford to serve it to masses of rowdy adventurers and random townsfolk - hordes of people getting drunk in public on Gilde money would not serve their reputation well.

But, to Ioriston, neither does cheap wine.

Gilde is large and successful for a reason, though, and that is likely due to their management style and focus on business. Perhaps they might be worth consideration. They would have to actually show something better than festival organization and free glasses containing sour reddish water to prove that, though...

...no, no, it's still far too early to actually be considering any guild as one to join or rule out. Even Cherry Home or Silver Flag might have some merit, however unlikely.

Ioriston continued holding the wine glass until the server was looking in some other direction, then began looking around for some means of discreetly disposing of the poor excuse for wine. Politeness was a good thing to display, but bad wine was not something Ioriston could tolerate for too long.

[Oko and Qailee]

Fife gets a few stares from the crowd as he shouts and runs off, but not too many. It was so crowded in the area that most people didn't pay attention to him over their desire to mob the gentlemen carrying food. As he heads towards Cherry Home he notices that the surrounding buildings begin to deteriorate and there is less people about. At one point there is no people outside save for a tall woman he finds himself right behind (Chistare). She was tall, standing at six feet in stockings, and rather broad in the shoulders. Her clothing consisted of a simple linen shirt, heavy cotton trousers and leather boots beneath her chainmail.

Fife, unfortunately wasn't very familiar with Cherry Home. He had heard that their Guild Master is a woman named Snow. Supposedly, the guild was formed simply as a collection of individuals who liked to help others within the small town of Manla.

On Minka he is a bit more knowledgeable. Minka is led by Greywatch, a man known for having a militaristic mind, who is supposedly 10 feet tall. Minka tends to be fairly organized and high risk since they have to deal primarily with out right threats. While they're certainly not prudes outside of a mission/job/quest/etc, they tend to be very strict on the job, as failure fairly leads to death. The legend of how the guild was formed matches the actual history, what was originally a military bastion slowly became a guild over time.


The man smells strongly of booze. The guy was large but had nothing quit stand outish about him. He notices you observing him and then turns to walk away.

"Freaking bald weirdo"

Seeing a Girelda, the server turned and left to go offer then some "wine" as well. He walks up to Girelda.

"Some wine, my lady?"

[evyldead]

A small but delicate Halfling in a skirt and a sleeveless shirt and a scarf to cover her neck but it seems like there is a mark under the scarf, if anyone looks at her neck area. She looks as though she is carrying some sort of circular knifes of some sort and a small hole in the center of them. Looks like she is wearing long socks and sandals that come up to the top of the socks. She looks as though she is always on the look to be ready for anything. But her face is cheerful as a little girls. And she just wonders around looking for people she may know.

[JanusJones]

Arrow keeps his eyes down and to the side as the big man stalks off. With a nod, he suddenly turns and walks swiftly in the direction of Cherry Home.

He was here. Maybe there would be others. It couldn't hurt to try.

[RedSand]

Maddox fluttered through the crowds, his legs a conspicuous whirldwind as he bounded past his captive audience, sputtering out quick "excuse me"'s or "pardon"'s as he went. Maddox felt he should be a bit embarrassed about it all, or rather, he would if the root of the problem hadn't wrapped itself around the remains of his hindbrain, demanding speed and style and above all, attention.

Maddox had known trying to bind Paimon would give him trouble-he wasn't easy to negotiate with, and a poor pact with him practically guaranteed he would make some kind of fool of himself. But Paimon enhanced his own abilities by too far a degree to audition without him. Maddox needed to make himself worth a miracle, and he'd already proven himself to be sorely lacking in his ability to avoid death.

He'd made himself as presentable as possible-he was a mortician's son, and he'd done his best to dress his face and color his cheeks, so as to counteract the white pallor of his skin. There was significantly less he could do about the gaunt of his face,the subtle stiffness of his cheekbones that made it just the slightest bit unsettling when he talked. He also hadn't bothered to dye his now very silver-blonde hair, and as a matter of principle, he'd left the crescent row of stitches under his eye alone; a wound that kills you, he reasoned, was a wound that had earned it's keep. He wore his best studded leather armor, which had been dyed a dark mossy green, and strapped to his back he had his pack and crossbow. His magically-enhanced shortsword lay strapped to his belt on his right, mirrored by two masterwork cold iron ones on his left. His writing implements and several other small trinkets lay in a pouch on his belt.

Maddox sauntered off to the city center. As far as he knew, the only way to get any kind of help via divine channels was through the Holy Sphere, and the best way to get to them came via the Silver Flag.

[evyldead]

Seraphina walks threw the crowds not really having much of a problem due to her height and slippery ways, and she walks towards and up to the Innocent reps. Hi there! What would my abilities as a rogue be in this fine guild? Just getting the basics then I'll go and see the other guilds and make my ways to the best one that seems to fit. Now how would I be of use to Innocent?

[sparky9042]

Of course. A professional server is paid to flatter, and poorly. At any rate, now that his attention is elsewhere, Ioriston quickly and discreetly pours the wine from his glass out onto the ground.

To waste good wine is considered rude, but as this is not at all good wine, Ioriston has no such concerns.

[Caligstro Smith]

As Torma passed through the eastern gate of Pamelon, one of the guards did a double take, amazed to see what appeared to be the oddest dwarf to ever live. At a height of just 3 feet 7 inches tall, he was so short that one might think him a child or perhaps a particularly tall gnome, were it not for his stocky build, rough features, and magnificent, thick gray beard that hung almost to his knees. He walked with a spring in his step most uncharacteristic for one of his race, and he moved with a lightness much at odds with his apparent great age. Wrinkles lined his face, with laughter lines around his mouth cutting deepest of all where a huge grin was spread across his face. He wore monk's robes, coal black with a light tan trim, a wide, dark brown conical straw hat, a heavy brown woolen cloak, and thick wooden geta that clacked noisily with each step, and he carried a polished wooden staff a little shorter than himself, with a square protrusion and two metal pins a quarter of the way from each end.

The dense crowd quickly engulfed the tiny dwarf, but the strange man seemed little bothered by the forest of legs, at least for the brief time the guard could still see him, darting quickly between and around the throngs, occasionally spinning or cartwheeling to avoid a collison. The only thing that seemed to match his physical appearance was his voice, as he fairly shouted in a deep, gravely, growling tone such courtesies as, "Pardon me!," "Excuse me!," and, "Sorry!"

Just as the guard finally began to turn back to his post, the small man finally lost in the crowd, the dwarf appeared again, somersaulting 7 feet into the air!, well over the head of a particularly tall Gilde waiter, before disappearing back into the mob.

Note 1: I usually voluntarily fail my binding check for Naberius, as I'm pretty unlikely to make it anyway, and especially when I'm wearing my dwarven appearance, since it fixes my voice to be more fitting. Let me know if there's ever a stage, pulpit, podium, or any other place specifically made for presenting/giving speeches.

Note 2: Binding Naberius is also why I look like an old dwarf right now, and 9 inches taller than I really am. It grants disguise self at will, which I've used to take on this appearance. People who touch me or my robes get a will save DC 11 to disbelieve it and realize I'm actually a TINY, SKINNY, almost middle-aged halfling with only a bit of gray stubble on his weak chin.
********************************************

After spinning around, dodging past, and flipping over the initial crush of people and finding a space with a bit more breathing room for one as small as himself, Torma takes a moment to get his bearings and pinpoint and approach some Gilde waiter who's not being mobbed (likely one whose tray is already empty).

"Hello my good fellow, could you perhaps point me in the direction of this inn? This simple map I've been provided has the locations of the guilds but I'm afraid I don't know where my room is..?"

Torma gestures at the address on his tickets and grins broadly at the waiter.

*I think a bath and a hot meal I need not chase after or fight the crowds for should be the first order of business. Then I'll begin making the rounds of the guild houses. Just from heresay Klanen sounds the most fun and Cherry Home perhaps the most welcoming. Maybe I'll start there*

(Note: *Italics* is being used to indicate thinking to myself)

[Oko and Qailee]

Unfortunately, with the density/movement of the crowd and her short stature, Serephina can't make out many people let alone anyone she knows in the crowd. A lot of people fail to notice her and bump into her, some apologize, others make remarks about "what are children doing around here?" and others say things like "thats a halfling you moron."

She makes her way southward. As she travels it becomes significantly less crowded and the building quality deteriorates slightly, mostly because the buildings in this area of Pamelon seem to look older. She arrives at low height, but extremely wide, building. The building seemed to be made of stone bricks and it's windows were simply holes in the brick wall. A maple wood sign was painted and placed in front of the building that read, "The Pamelon City Barracks is happy to host Guild Innocent!" A flag is on top of the building with the Innocent Emblem (see below).

(sorry I took liberties with describing the travel and stuff, it is a city after all so I wanted to give a feeling of "travel time")

A woman in an orange dress and a man in orange robes are chatting outside, each have the Innocent Emblem stitched on their clothing. Serephina poses her questions to them. The woman looks at her and replies.

"Well Heeeeeello! Aren't you adorable? A rogue? Well, you certainly approached quietly enough! I hadn't noticed you at all! Now, what can a rogue do for Innocent? Well it's not just what a rogue can do for Innocent, but what can Innocent do for you! I know there's a lot to see today, but would you like to step inside? We can show you what makes Innocent... super! But if you're in a hurry, I understand. Cute skirt btw. What's your name? I feel like introductions should come before business, if that's alright? My name is Janna, it's a pleasure to meet you. At any rate, if you're in a hurry, I'll just tell you this. There are many things a rogue can do for us. We tend to take the jobs and missions that Millennium Sphinx can't... um, handle. So they tend to be less life threatening, but more varied. For a sneaky, but oh-so-adorable, little rogue like yourself, we have many uses for spying and in, um... some case... stealing, and in rare cases, assassinations!

The man with her looks like hes in disbelief at the woman and just shakes his head.


http://s16.postimg.org/roxlbtqz9/Innocent.png

All three of you have made your way to the section of town where Cherry Home supposedly is advertising. Arrow, on his way, passed by a massive crowd in the center of town that surrounded a massive fortress looking building. The building had multiple white and black flags with the Gilde crest flying on top of it. (basically you passed Gilde on your way to Cherry Home).

Chistare, Fife, and Arrow all arrive at a sort of small open plaza that look only marginally better than the previous surroundings. Once there they see at one end of the plaza a dainty building with an oak sign that reads "Xilping tea store, honored to be hosting Cherry Home!" In front of the building is the easily recognizable Cherry Home guild symbol (see below). You guys see each other in the plaza, as well as a single man in front of the Cherry Home building.

The man is wearing a fairly tight solid black shirt and loose black trousers tucked into black boots. He is tall and athletically built with a tiny bit of scruff on his face. He has opaque short black hair. A few people walk by him and as they do he tries to invite them in, unfortunately the responses are fairly negative.

"Hey, would you like to talk about Cherry Home?"
"Maybe some other time sir..."

"Have you considered joining Cherry Home?"
"Ha, please! And waste my talents on that trash?"

(Arrow, I don't feel like its ok for me to describe Chistare's and Fife's scents btw, since I don't really know.)

He looks fairly discouraged, but keeps going at it.



http://s4.postimg.org/xyshyy0u5/Cherry_Home.png


Maddox makes his way towards the city center. On his way to Silver Flag he passes a massive fortress looking building absolutely surrounded with people. The building has Gilde's flag over it. He can clearly hear some traditional bardic music coming from the fortress. He continues to walk just a bit further and he arrives in front of a large Grecian looking building. It was larger than most of the buildings around it, but not as large as the fortress from before. It was made of marble and a polished metal sign was hung at the top of it that read "The Pamelon courthouse is proud to host the most holy Silver Flag." Waving on top of the building is a single, rather large, Silver Flag with a single gold banner run through it diagonally (the flag of Silver Flag).

The front of the courthouse had 4 great columns, from which a different flag hung from each one.

The symbols on the flags are:
1) A Broken Eye with a drop of blood dripping from it (you auto-recognize it as the symbol of The Home of Death).
2) A grown tree, with a triangle overlapping it (Knowledge: religion roll for the rest if you want to)
3) A a large swirl with an overlapping circle
4) A sun and a moon

At the base of the columns is 1 person per column. Each of them in shining full plate and wielding a sword and a shield. You see a decent amount of people moving into and out of the building, some look pretty happy upon exiting and others somewhat distraught.


You manage to easily find a waiter whose tray is empty... as every waiter who shows up is nearly instantly mobbed of everything. You manage to approach a waiter, whose sweating quite profusely.

"Inn? What? I'm sorry, awfully busy." He takes a breathe and calms down before continuing. "Oh, yes, Lodging Logs Inn, it's one of the newer megainns Jannis had built just for festivals. You'll find it just slightly northeast of Gilde's Guild building. You can't miss it, it's a, um, large wooden building, very tall, with many small windows on it."


You successfully spill the wine discreetly.

(sorry, nothing else exciting D:)

[JanusJones]

The short, hooded man moves up quietly next to the recruiter. He stops just outside the man's reach, leaning against the wall. His eyes are down and to the side, but something in his expression says he's alert.

He waits.

[Autopsibiofeeder]

Jot (Girelda)

The young lady smiles at the waiter. "Why, of course, thank you kindly." She accepts a glass of wine and has a small sip. "Oh...excuse me?" She adresses the waiter, "Do you perhaps also have a glass of water to go with it...or can I fetch that somewhere?" It was still early in the day, and Girelda prefers to keep her wits about her.

[Caligstro Smith]

*Interjecting between the waiter's apology and the rest of his explanation,* "Oh, that's quite alright, quite alright! Certainly understandable! Thank you for sparing me a moment!"


*After the explanation,* "Excellent! Thank you! If you can spare just a minute more, though, who is Jannis? Is he the lord of this city? Or the leader of Gilde? So sorry, but for all my years of traveling," Torma rumbles, gesturing at his aged appearance, "I've never been to, or even near, this fine city, and I've heard little of it or its governance?"


After the waiter responds, Torma thanks him for his time again, handing him a gold piece for his time, and heads off to the Lodging Logs Inn.

[sparky9042]

You won't need any water, the wine's been sufficiently watered down enough.

A small crystal atop a set of intricate spindly legs wormed its way through the crowd toward the server's next target, informing her that the wine being served was not exactly something she needed to worry about getting drunk off of. Even moreso, to Ioriston, she did not need to bother drinking it, but if she enjoyed it there was nothing he could do about that.

[evyldead]

[QUOTE=Oko and Qailee;17458399]Unfortunately, with the density/movement of the crowd and her short stature, Serephina can't make out many people let alone anyone she knows in the crowd. A lot of people fail to notice her and bump into her, some apologize, others make remarks about "what are children doing around here?" and others say things like "thats a halfling you moron."

She makes her way southward. As she travels it becomes significantly less crowded and the building quality deteriorates slightly, mostly because the buildings in this area of Pamelon seem to look older. She arrives at low height, but extremely wide, building. The building seemed to be made of stone bricks and it's windows were simply holes in the brick wall. A maple wood sign was painted and placed in front of the building that read, "The Pamelon City Barracks is happy to host Guild Innocent!" A flag is on top of the building with the Innocent Emblem (see below).

(sorry I took liberties with describing the travel and stuff, it is a city after all so I wanted to give a feeling of "travel time")

A woman in an orange dress and a man in orange robes are chatting outside, each have the Innocent Emblem stitched on their clothing. Serephina poses her questions to them. The woman looks at her and replies.

"Well Heeeeeello! Aren't you adorable? A rogue? Well, you certainly approached quietly enough! I hadn't noticed you at all! Now, what can a rogue do for Innocent? Well it's not just what a rogue can do for Innocent, but what can Innocent do for you! I know there's a lot to see today, but would you like to step inside? We can show you what makes Innocent... super! But if you're in a hurry, I understand. Cute skirt btw. What's your name? I feel like introductions should come before business, if that's alright? My name is Janna, it's a pleasure to meet you. At any rate, if you're in a hurry, I'll just tell you this. There are many things a rogue can do for us. We tend to take the jobs and missions that Millennium Sphinx can't... um, handle. So they tend to be less life threatening, but more varied. For a sneaky, but oh-so-adorable, little rogue like yourself, we have many uses for spying and in, um... some case... stealing, and in rare cases, assassinations!

The man with her looks like hes in disbelief at the woman and just shakes his head.


SSeraphina Looks at the man every now and then as she is talking, My name is Seraphina Ningel ofthe Dragonblade Ninja clan. So I'm not your typical rogue, more of a Ninja, and I'm in no hurry. I'm just wondering why you look like that, not believing what she is saying and shaking your head?

[Oko and Qailee]

(long post coming later, want to give everyone time to post, but this is pretty short and minor)

The win taste like it's managed to go bad, it tastes sour.... and then diluted. They diluted sour wine!

"I'm afraid not with me, but there should be another..."
he glances around until he spots another server carrying a tray with glasses + a pitcher of water.
"Ah, there! He has some!"

[Autopsibiofeeder]

Jot (Girelda)

Girelda decides, after having taken that sip, that she won't be finishing this wine. "Thank you, that is very kind." She turns around and away from the waiter, while rinsing her mouth with some water. She looks for the first possible opportunity to toss the wine unnoticed and return the glass to a plate somewhere.

Sleight of hand to toss wine unnoticed: [roll0]

Then she looks around to find the voice she just heard, about the wine being watered down. No-one obvious. Weird...

[RedSand]

Maddox stood there as Paimon twisted and twirled inside of his mind, slowly becoming aware of the familiar sound of a minstrel's lute. The myriad sounds of the crowd deafened the effect somewhat, but Paimon kept his unease, mentally pulling on Maddox's ears as he waited.

Maddox pondered his options. He obviously wasn't looking to serve under the Queen of Death again, and well he was at it, he wasn't particularly warm to the Divine One, who probably wouldn't appreciate his lack of a heartbeat. Besides, he'd heard their afterlife was a bit dull too. Xil was probably the most powerful god he could serve in this country-but he was a god of chaos-good if you're looking to break a pact, maybe not as great if you're looking to establish a new one. Then again, a more lawful deity might not want to Maddox to break his pledge no matter what he did for them. And come to think of it, would either Xil or Chi stop their own constant fighting to defy the Queen of Death, even momentarily?

It was at this point Maddox began to realize he might not know enough about divinity to pull this off. All the more reason to find, he supposed.

The third symbol he couldn't quite recognize, but it was...probably Solenus and Lunaris? That'd be the smart bet, and thinking of it, it would probably also be his best chance at freedom. Gods of Order and Chaos working in tandem would be effectively neutral, right? And they'd be stronger than the very singular Queen, who's theistic partner refused to acknowledge her existence-at least, one would assume, right?

Well, there was a fairly simple way of finding out. Maddox walked towards the fourth gate underneath the sun and moon, turned to the knight in armor, and asked as politely as he could "Excuse me, sir, but is this the section of the Silver Flag devoted to Solenus and Lunaris?"

[Valery]

Fife McDougal paused a moment to inspect the tall woman before him. She looked fairly care free, a strong woman no doubt; a glance at her basic equipment was enough to let Fife know that this woman was no ordinary person. No doubt, she was joining a guild, but she was walking in the direction of Cherry Home. Fife had gone towards the guild out of misguided sense of self-preservation, but this woman seemed to be willingly walking towards Cherry Home. He remembered that it was a small group, weak, and not especially noteworthy, but this attracted Fife. He thought it would be easy to assume a more notable position in the guild, as he needed to make a grand impression if he ever wanted to achieve his ultimate goal.

"Hello there," Fife exclaimed running up to the tall woman, "you're heading to Cherry Home right? I'm Fife, Fife McDougal. I'm going to apply for membership over at the guild, but I'm afraid I only know the basics about them. Perhaps you know something more? Oh, my goodness, I'm sorry I've been blathering about for a bit. Please forgive me for being rude I'm just nervous. I'm afraid that you might try to kill me, but I really shouldn't expect that out of a stranger. I mean...oh, there I go again. What the hell is your name? I mean....... I'm Fife McDougal. Who are you?"

[Samah]

Chistara raised an eyebrow at the man rambling before her before replying, "My name is Chistara Tanaruk and I am not usually in the habit of killing people upon first meeting. Unfortunately, I know no more of the Guilds and how they function than you but I'm hoping that that gentleman," She nods her head towards the man in front of the building hosting Cherry Home, "will be able to explain the procedures to me. Or us, rather."

[Oko and Qailee]

The man smells clean and floral. Upon standing next to him and leaning the man stops talking to the other people passing by. He looks at arrow for a moment, but doesn't say anything for a short moment, as if expecting Arrow to speak first. After realizing Arrow isn't speaking first the man decides to initiate the conversation.

"Hey, hello. How're you? Interested in maybe joining Cherry Home? My name is Harnor Vitsiharen."

He offers his hand to Arrow to shake.

(Chistara and Fife are talking to each other, but they can hear this.)


"Jannis Young? He's not the lord of the city, but he might as well be, he's the guild leader of Gilde, greatest guild in Xil. We have a town council, but certainly their influence is not even half of Jannis Youngs."

Upon receiving the piece of gold the waiter thanks Torma.

Torma rather rapidly arrives the Lodging Logs Inn, finding it was easy enough as it literally looked like a massive towering block of stone and wood with many windows closely spaced together. In terms of details there wasn't much to it, as if the builder had to to spare every expense.


As far as Jot (Girelda) could tell, no one had seen her toss the wine. The crowd had begun to thin even more than it already was as less people are entering the city and many have already made their way to guilds/music/etc.


"Yes! It is! Are you considering joining the most holy order of the Silver Flag? Whom do you worship?" He gives Maddox some time to respond and then continues.
"Silver Flag deals with a variety of national issues, primarily those regarding religion, as nearly all our members are religious. We strive to keep the peace when to faiths come into conflict, while promoting our own faith of course! Some of us..." he nods towards the two guards representing TDO and the Home of Death "don't keep the peace as well as others I'm afraid. But if you're looking for a divinely powered guild, Silver Flag is it."

[RedSand]

"Ah, yes...well. I'm currently somewhat...in between faiths, as it is. I've been thinking that the...I suppose you'd say 'harmonious duality' that Solemnus and Lunaris have would make them a finer pantheon than my previous worship. Would the Flag find that problematic, given their politics?"

[Caligstro Smith]

Torma strode lightly into the inn, looking about at the new building's interior and the few patrons present in the common area. When he spied the innkeep he again grinned broadly and called out to him, "Innkeep! I would like to pick up the key to my room," gesturing with the ticket for his room, "and I'd also like the best hot meal this fine establishment can offer! I know there's free food during the festival, but I doubt it's ALL food, and I've a mind for something more than common fare."

Torma strode up to the bar as he spoke and jumped up onto a stool there before continuing in his gravely voice, "So, I'll be checking out the guilds myself later today, but while I'm here, what can you tell me about the unguilded's opinions of them? I'm pretty sure Gilde's your employer, so I won't ask about them, but what of the others? Any exciting rumors, or big players in the guild scene to keep an eye out for? Or other news?"

[Autopsibiofeeder]

Jot (Girelda)

Girelda does not want to miss out on the fun, so she follows the masses swiftly towards the area where the guilds are having the parties. She brings the glass of water, convinced someone else will later make sure it returns to the waiter. Or not.

[sparky9042]

Noticing the lack of any crowd, Ioriston collects his psicrystal, then begins moving in the direction of the closest guild display that is not presently affected by a crowd.

[Oko and Qailee]

The innkeep was a portly woman who looked fairly bored currently, she sat at a counter that had a doorway right behind it. Her gray hair was tied in a bun, her wrinkled face showed her age, and her earring's , made obviously of fake gold, and dress, a dull red, told of her lack of wealth. The inside of the inn could easily be described as dull but clean, wooden floors, gray unpainted stone walls, a few plain wooden tables and a tiny, currently unmanned and unstocked bar. There are only 3 people besides the woman within the room and they're all sitting at one of the tables. As Torma offers the ticket she searches underneath her counter. The shuffling of keys can be heard as she takes a minute to find them. She then hands Torma a single bronze key with the number 761 on it. Once she does so she begins to speak. As she speaks she move into the doorway, Torma can here some clanging behind there, but she shouts over it.

"Not talk bad about Gilde? He's our employer, not our patron saint. I'm afraid I don't know much about guilds outside of Gilde. I do know some rumors... apparently Minka has been more active as of late, filthy Chiite camps have been seen in greater number. Millennium Sphinx of course is a powerhouse as always, tomorrow either Torwin from Millennium Sphinx or Sarah Song from Gilde will be promoted to a Major Guild at the games. My money is personally on Torwin. As for the others, there isn't much I'm afraid, apparently Cherry Home recruited a guy a year ago... Hamnor? Hallon? I forget his name, but apparently Millennium Sphinx wanted him."

She returns from the back and sits back at the counter, speaking in a normal tone she asks Torma "It'll be one moment on some beef stew if that's ok? It is very good, but it wasn't hot enough. Our cook and bartender were told they didn't have to work until later tonight when everyone is done seeing guilds..."


"Absolutely not, we who understand the great duality of day and night, law and chaos, have a decent hold of influence on the guild. Not nearly all of it of course. Would you like to speak more inside? And perhaps show us what talents you possess? We do not simply let everyone who worships a god join the Silver Flag."

(I randomly rolled which of 3 guilds closest to you that is also not that crowded you went to if that's ok.)

Ioriston made way to the Silver Flag, while certainly it was in the same general direction as Gilde, it was not very crowded at all.
he arrives in front of a large Grecian looking building that stands taller than most of the surrounding buildings. It was made of marble and a polished metal sign was hung at the top of it that read "The Pamelon courthouse is proud to host the most holy Silver Flag." Waving on top of the building is a single, rather large, Silver Flag with a single gold banner run through it diagonally (the flag of Silver Flag).

The front of the courthouse had 4 great columns, from which a different flag hung from each one.

The symbols on the flags are:
1) A Broken Eye with a drop of blood dripping from it (you auto-recognize it as the symbol of The Home of Death).
2) A grown tree, with a triangle overlapping it (Knowledge: religion roll for the rest if you want to)
3) A a large swirl with an overlapping circle
4) A sun and a moon

At the base of the columns is 1 person per column. Each of them in shining full plate and wielding a sword and a shield. You see a decent amount of people moving into and out of the building, some look pretty happy upon exiting and others somewhat distraught.

There was a dozen people now talking to the men in front of the columns and a decent amount moving into and out of the building, but there was more than ample room.


If there were two places that were going to be wild it was going to be Gilde or Klanen right now, but Gilde was closer and the masses seemed to be moving more towards the home guild. Following the masses, Girelda arrives at an even more massive crowd, more than Girelda could count, surrounding a giant fortress from which the flags of Gilde flew. There were many tables, mostly occupied, with white table clothes, several bards and waiters running about, people laughing and dancing, kids running about, men and women dueling. Waiters here brought not only small foods and wine, but the brought entire roasted pigs to tables, where it would be devoured rather rapidly. There were people of all sorts, many looked as if they were merely enjoying the free entertainment and others seemed as though they we're trying to find official members of Gilde to talk to.

In the crowd, Jot could make out 3 figures that stand out from the rest:
-A sharp looking gentleman with light brown hair, he wore a plain white tunic over black trousers. He seemed to always have a smile or smirk on his face as he moved from table to table to talk to the masses. Every now and then he would take a ticket handed to him from an individual.
-An elf with olive skin and silver hair, who wore a dark blue cloak that hid most of his clothing. He looked more serious, but also chatted with the masses.
-A woman with light blue skin and white hair, she wore leather and had a rapier at her side.

All three of them had the black Symbol of Gilde stitched onto the left shoulder of their clothing.

[Autopsibiofeeder]

Jot (Girelda)

Girelda takes some time to check the people in the crowd out and then she notices the lady with the light blue skin. Intrigued, she moves in the direction of the lady and, when appropriate, she adresses her in an attempt to make conversation: "Hi there...I see you're a member, eh? How's that?"

[Caligstro Smith]

"Beef stew will be just great, thank you, and I'm sorry to have surprised your cook-staff with my early meal."

Torma shrugged off his pack and leaned down to set it by the foot of his stool beside where he'd leaned his staff against the bar. He reached deep into his cloak and pulled out a full (medium) waterskin, from which he took a long drink before replacing it.

"Sorry about that, please don't take it the wrong way, but I prefer my own drink," he rumbled, wiping his mouth and his magnificent whiskers around it with the back of his hand. "You mentioned Torwin of Millenium Sphinx and Sarah Song of Gilde? If they're up for promotion to the major guilds then they're like to be quite strong. What can you tell me of them? What manner of heroes are they? And this fellow of Cherry Home, you might not recall his name, but if he was strong enough to be sought by Millennium Sphinx, do you remember what he did or any tales of his exploits?"

*after discussing the above few (minor?) celebrities (possibly continuing in more post(s) depending on how much or little she knows or says)*

Torma then inquired, "And you said there would be games tomorrow? What sort of games? I may be showing my ignorance, but I admit that, the age that I am, I have never attended one of these festivals before. Is it just those up for promotion to the majors who compete? Or will I be expected to compete to prove my skill to the guilds I'm courting?"

[JanusJones]

The man smells clean and floral. Upon standing next to him and leaning the man stops talking to the other people passing by. He looks at arrow for a moment, but doesn't say anything for a short moment, as if expecting Arrow to speak first. After realizing Arrow isn't speaking first the man decides to initiate the conversation.

"Hey, hello. How're you? Interested in maybe joining Cherry Home? My name is Harnor Vitsiharen."

He offers his hand to Arrow to shake.

(Chistara and Fife are talking to each other, but they can hear this.)


Arrow's eyes briefly dart down to the extended hand. There's a long pause. He doesn't take it.

He nods, eyes flicking up to the man's face. His voice is quiet, surprisingly soft. "Arrow. I ... I'm not sure. Tell me what you do."

Though his poise is wary, there's an earnest appeal in his voice.

[Oko and Qailee]

The woman keeps a serious face as she responds to Girelda.

"Well, actually. And you are?"


"That's quite alright. I'm afraid I don't know much about Torwin, I believe he is a cleric of some faith or another. Sarah is one of the most gifted sorceresses to have ever entered Gilde, and while Torwin is most likely the more powerful of the two, I wouldn't be surprised if Sarah gave him a run for his money. As for that Hanlem... uh, whatever his name is... I'm not sure, he auditioned with the Sphinx a year ago, no one saw his audition, but apparently T'nul himself asked him to join the Sphinx, a shame that a talented man chose to join Cherry Home..."

"Oh no dear, only those being promoted to a major guild participate, it is part of the selection process. Tickets just to see it are expensive... but any new recruits to guilds get free entry. The games... vary from year to year, sometimes the competitors just show off their skills and recount their achievements, other times they make a challenge for the competitors... last year Holy Sphere was seeking a wise individual so they posed some.... odd riddle, it was confusing, I can't even remember how it goes for the life of me... something about 3 gods, truths, lies, and randomness?"

Harnor looks curiously at arrow and withdraws his hand, confused at the lack of a hand shake.

"Do you mean me personally? or Cherry Home? Cherry Home was founded on the idea that a guild can be something more than just a place of business, for many members it's similar to a family. We used to get no important jobs, up until I joined a year ago. Most of our members still take on jobs and quests for the "little guy" in Manla though, but I've been trying to make us more... I guess competitive is the right word? when compared to other guilds. I don't think any guild will have as many good hearted people as Cherry Home, but they tend to get stepped on a lot because of that.

Would you like to step inside? There's free tea, I promise it's a lot better than the wine they serve here."

[RedSand]

Maddox nods. "Oh, yes, I have several skills to ply, which I expect your judges shall...sha-Maddox feels a quick mental kick from his "guest", dispersing his anxieties and replacing them with a boastful fury "Shall be in complete and utter awe at! Oh, be excited, my new acquiantance, for you will not be the last to do so this day. I imagine the Silver Flag will be chomping at every bit to add me to their illustrious roster. I'll be free of the Queen by the end of the week with any luck. Thank you kindly for your words, sir knight. I look forward to standing under the same banner soon!"

With that, Maddox scampered into the hall, and began dancing as he ran before he was halfway there.

[Caligstro Smith]

"I take it T'nul is the leader of Millenium Sphinx? And that is intriguing about that 'H' fellow of Cherry Home. Are there any guesses or rumors as to why he settled with such a minor guild? And who is the leader of Cherry Home?"

*Torma pauses for her replies*

"Well, I figured I'd start off visiting Cherry Home anyway, start off with the little guys, as I've been given to understand them, and move forward with my rounds from there. I'll be sure to look into it while I'm there, if I can, and if you're interested, I'll let you know when I return for my evening meal?

You said you don't know much more about the other Guilds, but do you perhaps know who runs Klanen, or maybe know any of their members? I planned to visit them second, as they sounded like they might be a fun lot?"

*****************************************
Break because there's still more conversation above
before we'd have gotten to the discussion of games
*****************************************

"Ah, well that's good then. Glad I won't have to be worryin' about showing off tomorrow, on top of keeping close track of everything I see and hear of each guild today. And I get in free, you say? What a nice surprise this is! I didn't realize the guilds made recruit selections so quickly! By tomorrow I'll be guilded and be getting a free show from some of the best the minor guilds have to offer?"

[JanusJones]

Harnor looks curiously at arrow and withdraws his hand, confused at the lack of a hand shake.

"Do you mean me personally? or Cherry Home? Cherry Home was founded on the idea that a guild can be something more than just a place of business, for many members it's similar to a family. We used to get no important jobs, up until I joined a year ago. Most of our members still take on jobs and quests for the "little guy" in Manla though, but I've been trying to make us more... I guess competitive is the right word? when compared to other guilds. I don't think any guild will have as many good hearted people as Cherry Home, but they tend to get stepped on a lot because of that.

Would you like to step inside? There's free tea, I promise it's a lot better than the wine they serve here."

Something furtive - almost a smile - scurries across Arrow's face, and then is gone.

"I ... yes, I would. Thank you." The words are halting, but when his eyes catch Harnor's, there is something there.

OMG! Arrow's home!

[Valery]

Harnor looks curiously at arrow and withdraws his hand, confused at the lack of a hand shake.

"Do you mean me personally? or Cherry Home? Cherry Home was founded on the idea that a guild can be something more than just a place of business, for many members it's similar to a family. We used to get no important jobs, up until I joined a year ago. Most of our members still take on jobs and quests for the "little guy" in Manla though, but I've been trying to make us more... I guess competitive is the right word? when compared to other guilds. I don't think any guild will have as many good hearted people as Cherry Home, but they tend to get stepped on a lot because of that.

Would you like to step inside? There's free tea, I promise it's a lot better than the wine they serve here."[/QUOTE]

Fife perks up at the idea of a family oriented guild.
"Excuse me, I may not be incredibly interested in helping the little guy specifically, but I am looking for a place to call home if you've got one. I would like to come in for a spell if you don't mind, proved that the tea you serve will not obliterate em." Fife holds out his hand waiting Harnor to greet him with his own. With a weary smile Fife says, "'m Fife McDougal, the Death Singer."

[Autopsibiofeeder]

Jot (Girelda)

Girelda smiles. "My name is Girelda." She drinks some water. "I figured to come and have a look about, maybe find out what guild-life is all about."

[Oko and Qailee]

Inside the building is a long, dimly lit hallway. When he reaches the end of the hallway it opens up into a larger, better lit room. The inside of this room is larger and brighter. The floors shine from the light coming from a metal chandelier above. There a certainly more people inside the building than there were outside, all of them chatting. A single man plays a relaxed melody on a violin.

The larger room sports 5 doors, four of which have one of the religious symbols that were posted outside, the 5th door has "none of the others" written above it. An oak sign at the entrance to the room reads "Enter to the interview room of the faith of your preference and prepare to astound us with your talents!"


Oh yes, it will be quite a show I hope.

Yes, T'nul is the leader of Millennium Sphinx, one shudders to think what sort of a ruthless man leads that guild... he must be a strict man to accept nothing short of excellence. I'm afraid I can't tell you anymore of this... whatever his name was from Cherry Home... he's not a very high profile figure."


The woman looks somewhat upset at you mentioning your visit to Cherry Home, and then she becomes someone irate as you ask about Klanen.

"You do best to stay away from those trouble makers! I don't know much about them, but I know they have a tendency for destruction, since they've arrive we've already had to repair and pay for them breaking 7 tables and causing injury to the proprietor of their lodgings. Only those fools who request that their Guild presentation be at a tavern!"



Harnor, for a moment, seemed to turn to turn to walk Arrow inside, but Fife McDougal managed to get to him before he could do so. He matches Fifes hand and gives him a firm handshake.

"Harnor Vitsiharen, novice mage, at your service. I have drank our tea many times and have never been obliterated, so I can confidently say it wont happen to you. I would gladly have you both sit for a spell and maybe me and some of my friends can tell you a bit more about Cherry Home. Where we are, whats our building like, etc."

(I am semi-waiting on Samah)


"Well, it varies from person to person, as our list of tasks is wide and varied. Gilde is about productivity, unlike Klanen, we don't expect you to sit and drink for a whole month before doing something productive. I personally take bounties, I hunt criminals and the worst kind of men, and then I receive gold for my services. Perhaps there is something you like to do? And what talents do you possess Girelda, that Gilde can use?"

[Autopsibiofeeder]

Jot (Girelda)

"Oh, ehm..." Girelda smiles: "I do all kinds of things. I am the kind of person that gets things done. Anything, really...know my way around various, eh, strata of society. Can do things unnoticed, but also know how to draw attention if needed. Can hold myself in a fight. If you ask what I am, I'd say versatile."

[Caligstro Smith]

Torma jumps at her sudden outburst, nearly falling off his stool and clutching at the edge of the bar, his own voice instinctively rising to match her tone of alarm, "My goodness! I take your warning, madam; I didn't mean to upset you!" He pauses a short moment, regaining his composure before continuing at a more normal volume, "I'd heard that Klanen was a bit rowdier than the other guilds, which sounds like it might be more lively or fun when put that way, but I hadn't realized they were so destructive or troubling to the unguilded folk. Though I suppose if they are like that, it's better for them to be hosted in a tavern than in a nicer place less used to or capable of dealing with such... uninhibited skylarking."

Hmm... clearly discussing Klanen here is a bad idea... but I can't help but think that despite her violent reaction, likely reflective of the small folk's opinions of the guild, that the actual transgressions she mentioned were small and mostly harmless. A few tables? An injured barkeep? Tables are cheap, and magic can instantly heal most anything, and what sort of injury besides? That could mean almost anything. And it's not as if skylarking is that unusual in taverns... For now I'll continue to keep an open mind, but perhaps I'll be a bit more on my guard when I visit them.

*Torma pauses to see if she says anything more about that, and if she doesn't, moves on to the already completed discussion of the games tomorrrow*

"...Ah, well that's good then. Glad I won't have to be worryin' about showing off tomorrow, on top of keeping close track of everything I see and hear of each guild today. And I get in free, you say? What a nice surprise this is! I didn't realize the guilds made recruit selections so quickly! By tomorrow I'll be guilded and be getting a free show from some of the best the minor guilds have to offer?

Anyway, I suspect the stew is hot by now?"

Torma patiently waits while the inkeeper goes in back for his meal, humming a tune quietly to himself and tapping a simple rhythm on the counter top. When she returns, his easy, wide grin returns, "Mmmmm... Smells delightful!" He pulls out his waterskin again and takes another drink before replacing it and digging into his stew. After a couple bites he inquires, "So since by your initial statement about Gilde I infer that you're under no obligation from them to sing their praises, what can you tell me about them? I know it's very large and wealthy, and that it holds most of the power in Pamelon, town council or no, and that Jannis Young is its leader, but what more is there to Gilde besides its leader, bankers, and size?" Torma takes another bite, then leans forward, grins again, and lowers his voice, whispering, "Any dirty laundry?"

[sparky9042]

Ioriston took a look at Silver Flag's building. He had never been particularly pious, so this guild did not interest him much. The elf decided to move on and go inspect Millennium Sphinx, if they weren't too crowded.

[Samah]

Chistara strides foreward, hands on her belt, ""Well met, Harnor, my name is Chistara Tanaruk and I, too, would be interested in hearing about your guild." She smiles warmly at the novice mage. "I've recently left a family run merchant caravan so a place that feels and acts as a family would be welcome."

[Oko and Qailee]

"Oh it was just a warning sweetie."

Upon Torma's inquiry about "dirty laundry" she frowns slightly.

"Well, I don't think it's right to just air out laundry at everyone's request. Just because I can talk bad about Gilde doesn't mean I will! I will tell you this though, for Jannis, what matters is the bottom line."

Luckily, Millennium Sphinx was very close to Silver Flag. Upon arriving at the location designated on the map, Ioriston finds himself at a large plaza in which three large Pavilions have been set up. There is a small crowd chatting about and a small line in front of each pavilion. At the front of the Pavilion are 3 guards, each with the Millennium Sphinx Guild Crest (see below) on the front of breast plate that they are wearings.

In the crowd is a are a few other individuals with the Millennium Sphinx crest on their clothing. The one that appears the least busy and is closest to Ioriston is a young woman with crimson red hair and a freckled face. She appears thin, despite the large Crimson Cloak she is wearing. Her and the other individuals seem to be informing people about the details of MS.

http://s30.postimg.org/60ijc90oh/image.png

Harnor looks surprised as Chistara walks up, clearly having three different people approach Cherry Home was a rare occurrence.
"Pleasure to meet you"
He offers out his hand to shake.
"Well, I think you've come to the right place. Would you like to come inside as well?"

*------Assuming Chistara says yes-------*
He turns and holds open the door for the group, inside is a dainty tea shop. The room smells floral and on the ceiling hang many lanterns.
Look sort of like this but with the Cherry Home Cherries symbol on it
http://wanderingju.files.wordpress.com/2012/08/p1100182.jpg


The outmost border of the room is step up from the center of the room, where there are 8 low tables. There are no chairs, but mats instead. At the far end of the room there is a doorway that most likely leads to the kitchen. Only 3 of the tables are occupied. At the first table is a dark skinned man with a vertical scar across his face. He has bronze hair and is wearing a mithril shirt on which the Cherry Home symbol is painted. His table is occupied with several people, none of which have the Cherry Home symbol. They are asking the man details about the guilds such as how big is it, what features it has, etc.

At the second table is a woman who seems to be made entirely out intertwined trees. Saplings and branches protrude from various sections of her body and end in leaves, her hair itself seems to also be made of leaves. There seems to be a layer of snow upon her hair/shoulders/branches. Her table is the most crowded, with no room left to sit around it.

The third table, which has plenty of remaining space. Only has 3 people currently at it. A thin diaphanous young lade with light brown hair that partially covers her face and aquamarine eyes. Perhaps what distinguishes her more than this is the fact that she has two small angel wings coming from her back. She is dressed in sky blue robes that have the Cherry Home symbol. Another woman at the table has short golden hair with silver eyes. She wears full plate with the Cherry Home symbol, strapped to her back are two extremely large swords.

It is to the third table that Harnor leads the group.
"Hey" He greets the two ladies as he begins to introduce the group. "This is Chistara, Fife, and Arrow, they're interested in hearing a bit about us." He then gestures towards the woman with the full plate. "This is Trinida, the most talented member of our guild." Then he looks towards the other girl. "And this is Qailee, a better healer there is none."

At Harnors words Qailee smiles (blushes a little) and waves politely at the group. Trinida stands up.
"A pleasure to meet you. Come sit, they'll bring out some tea. I can answer any questions you have." Her tone is friendly, but she somewhat eye's Arrow oddly.


1) Lots of Green Tea smell
2) Trinida smells very clean like Harnor did
3) Qailee smells floral


"Can you display some of this versatility? or perhaps you can duel another applicant to show what you're capable of? or maybe cast a spell? I'd prefer to see something more... definitive. The name is Huevosa by the way, I forgot to tell you. If you impress me, I'll gladly try to impress you."

[Oko and Qailee]

The man gives you a look of "isn't it obvious?" He then speaks.
(hey, tomorrow lets iron out details of your clan)

"Ehhh, nothing... anyway, good chance meetin ya. Dragonblade Ninja clan? Are they from the wilds? I have not heard of them. At any rate, why don't you come inside?" He extends an arm as if to escort you, but before he can Janna grabs onto you.

"Foooooollooooow meeeeeeeeeee!"

*------------If you accept the invitation in------------------*
Inside it's somewhat dark, as only dim torches light the room. If the room was indeed a barracks, there is no sign of it currently as every piece of furniture has been cleared out for space. There is a rather decent crowd in there, but Janna pulls you along and she seems to bump into every single person. The entire time she rants about Innocent.

"Innocent is the best Guild in Xil. Lots of people call us Millennium Sphinx's mop, but we're not really a mop, more of a group of not jerk bags. We have the third largest guild building and the biggest library! You said you're a ninja! Awesome! We have two dedicated smiths for our guild named Rust and Gual, they can make any weapon you need for your stealthy ninja assassinations! Were a bit short handed on casters currently, but that doesn't mean we wouldn't take you! You just need to be assertive! You don't talk much huh? So do you think you wanna join yet? or maybe I didn't say enough good stuff about us. Here take this wine!" She hands you a glass of wine. "It's actual wine, not the cheap and then diluted stuff Gilde is serving outside, because you see, we actually see our guild members as more than just employees. I mean, you are an employee, but our goal is to make this a mutualistic relationship, like gobi fish and shrimp! Our guild master is a bit of a grumpus, but I think that's because he's upset his cousin is the head of Millennium Sphinx! So what sort of talents do you have? Would you like to try to impress us by combat? or maybe something stealthy? We have some bears we brought just for the occasion!"

[sparky9042]

Ioriston approaches the woman when she is not busy, and asks her about Millennium Sphinx. "As I understand it, your guild has quite the reputation for prestige. I am...intrigued. Tell me, if I am not coming off as too forward, what more is there to know about Millennium Sphinx, and what must I do in order to join?"

[Autopsibiofeeder]

Jot (Girelda)

"Fight, meh...I prefer to avoid fights if I can, to be honest. I can show you a small feat of manual dexterity?" She produces a small coin and performs some minor 'mundane' magic tricks with it (making it disappear, and reappear). "Not very impressive, I know, but I am sure you can see how legerdemain can be useful." She sips from her drink. "See, I have a 'condition'. There are multiple persons hiding in my mind and body. I will show you one more thing in a bit. Then, if you will be around for a while, I can come back to you in a different guise. With different skills." She smiles, knowing that sounds vague. "Try to follow me through the crowd, I am sure you are good at that. I will be back in a minute."

Girelda mingles with the crowd in the immediate vicinity. She will use the cover of other people and e.g. standing tables to use her Hide in plain sight ability three times. The third time, she uses her minor shapechange ability (as a move action) to change her gender to male, and her hair colour to black. Then, she returns to the lady.


Hide 1: [roll0]
Hide 2: [roll1]
Hide 3: [roll2]

And disguise, if needed: [roll3]

"Hi." Her voice is still the same. "Now, that is pretty neat, if I say so myself." She spulls her hand over her face to recover 'Girelda's' appearance. "Third trick, then the show is over... she smiles again ...is I will come back in an hour...and you get to chose who, or what, I will be. I can come back as a warrior, and show you my proficiency with the greatsword. I can come back as a wizard, and cast a few spells for you, or, I come back as a priest and do some magic. No wands," she adds.

"That is, if you have a room where I may prepare myself in quiet for an hour."

[JanusJones]

Harnor looks surprised as Chistara walks up, clearly having three different people approach Cherry Home was a rare occurrence.
"Pleasure to meet you"
He offers out his hand to shake.
"Well, I think you've come to the right place. Would you like to come inside as well?"

*------Assuming Chistara says yes-------*
He turns and holds open the door for the group, inside is a dainty tea shop. The room smells floral and on the ceiling hang many lanterns.
Look sort of like this but with the Cherry Home Cherries symbol on it
http://wanderingju.files.wordpress.com/2012/08/p1100182.jpg


The outmost border of the room is step up from the center of the room, where there are 8 low tables. There are no chairs, but mats instead. At the far end of the room there is a doorway that most likely leads to the kitchen. Only 3 of the tables are occupied. At the first table is a dark skinned man with a vertical scar across his face. He has bronze hair and is wearing a mithril shirt on which the Cherry Home symbol is painted. His table is occupied with several people, none of which have the Cherry Home symbol. They are asking the man details about the guilds such as how big is it, what features it has, etc.

At the second table is a woman who seems to be made entirely out intertwined trees. Saplings and branches protrude from various sections of her body and end in leaves, her hair itself seems to also be made of leaves. There seems to be a layer of snow upon her hair/shoulders/branches. Her table is the most crowded, with no room left to sit around it.

The third table, which has plenty of remaining space. Only has 3 people currently at it. A thin diaphanous young lade with light brown hair that partially covers her face and aquamarine eyes. Perhaps what distinguishes her more than this is the fact that she has two small angel wings coming from her back. She is dressed in sky blue robes that have the Cherry Home symbol. Another woman at the table has short golden hair with silver eyes. She wears full plate with the Cherry Home symbol, strapped to her back are two extremely large swords.

It is to the third table that Harnor leads the group.
"Hey" He greets the two ladies as he begins to introduce the group. "This is Chistara, Fife, and Arrow, they're interested in hearing a bit about us." He then gestures towards the woman with the full plate. "This is Trinida, the most talented member of our guild." Then he looks towards the other girl. "And this is Qailee, a better healer there is none."

At Harnors words Qailee smiles (blushes a little) and waves politely at the group. Trinida stands up.
"A pleasure to meet you. Come sit, they'll bring out some tea. I can answer any questions you have." Her tone is friendly, but she somewhat eye's Arrow oddly.


1) Lots of Green Tea smell
2) Trinida smells very clean like Harnor did
3) Qailee smells floral


The small man slowly seems to expand, almost like the slack being let out of a strung bow. He seems to occupy a bit more space as he carefully removes his quiver and hangs it over the back of the chair offered and unslings his heavy, glossy bow to set it on a lean against the table. He nods to Trinida and Qailee. "Arrow."

A sudden smile flashes over his rough features, and in his heavy, back-country accent he says "Thank'ee kindly."

[Caligstro Smith]

"Fair enough. I certainly respect your discretion. I suspected though, that the bottom line was where Gilde kept its focus, simply from what I'd heard of its reputation. Guild work is business, afterall."

Torma focuses for a minute or so on his stew, takes another drink from his waterskin, and then inquires after the inkeep's family, how she has liked living in Pamelon, local politics, local heroes, and minor scandals, mostly just engaging in polite small talk while he eats.

*assuming there's nothing big that would crop up in this polite small talk, correct me if I'm wrong?*

When he finishes his meal and the conversation has begun to wind down, he hops down off his bar stool and grabs his staff, saying, "Thank you again for this tasty meal and your delightful company this afternoon. I must be off now to make the rounds of the eight guild displays! As I said, I'll be back this evening!" As he says this, he pulls his pack back onto his back and the left side pouch seems to open on its own, two gold pieces sailing out of it and up onto the counter in front of the woman, accompanied by a light breeze. "Payment for the meal, and some extra for your helpful information and advice. Good afternoon!"

Torma heads back out of the Lodging Logs and into the street, headed off toward Cherry Home's display.

What a nice older woman. Hopefully such is representative of the common folk here. Hm... With my detour for lunch and taking the time to visit some of the less popular guilds first, hopefully I'll successfully avoid the worst of the crowds.

Torma was in a good mood, and he was having to resist the strong urge to skip, fly, or ride to his destination.

But I can't do that; skipping is just too odd for an old dwarf, and and the other two are much too ostentatious. I'd look like I was showing off, and that's not a good impression to give to your prospective employers. No matter how fun it is to ride, or convenient it is to fly.

And he settled for whistling a cheerful tune while he walked.

[Samah]

Chistara shakes Harnor's hand, her grip firm but not crushing. "Yes, I would. Thank you." Upon entering the building she pauses to admire the decor before following the rest of the group over to the table. After in the introductions she nods respectfully to Trinida and Qailee murmering, "Well met," quietly. At Trinida's words she lowers herself down onto a mat, sitting crosslegged, resettling the GreatAxe at her belt as she does so it rides more comfortably.

[Valery]

Harnor looks surprised as Chistara walks up, clearly having three different people approach Cherry Home was a rare occurrence.
"Pleasure to meet you"
He offers out his hand to shake.
"Well, I think you've come to the right place. Would you like to come inside as well?"

*------Assuming Chistara says yes-------*
He turns and holds open the door for the group, inside is a dainty tea shop. The room smells floral and on the ceiling hang many lanterns.
Look sort of like this but with the Cherry Home Cherries symbol on it
http://wanderingju.files.wordpress.com/2012/08/p1100182.jpg


The outmost border of the room is step up from the center of the room, where there are 8 low tables. There are no chairs, but mats instead. At the far end of the room there is a doorway that most likely leads to the kitchen. Only 3 of the tables are occupied. At the first table is a dark skinned man with a vertical scar across his face. He has bronze hair and is wearing a mithril shirt on which the Cherry Home symbol is painted. His table is occupied with several people, none of which have the Cherry Home symbol. They are asking the man details about the guilds such as how big is it, what features it has, etc.

At the second table is a woman who seems to be made entirely out intertwined trees. Saplings and branches protrude from various sections of her body and end in leaves, her hair itself seems to also be made of leaves. There seems to be a layer of snow upon her hair/shoulders/branches. Her table is the most crowded, with no room left to sit around it.

The third table, which has plenty of remaining space. Only has 3 people currently at it. A thin diaphanous young lade with light brown hair that partially covers her face and aquamarine eyes. Perhaps what distinguishes her more than this is the fact that she has two small angel wings coming from her back. She is dressed in sky blue robes that have the Cherry Home symbol. Another woman at the table has short golden hair with silver eyes. She wears full plate with the Cherry Home symbol, strapped to her back are two extremely large swords.

It is to the third table that Harnor leads the group.
"Hey" He greets the two ladies as he begins to introduce the group. "This is Chistara, Fife, and Arrow, they're interested in hearing a bit about us." He then gestures towards the woman with the full plate. "This is Trinida, the most talented member of our guild." Then he looks towards the other girl. "And this is Qailee, a better healer there is none."

At Harnors words Qailee smiles (blushes a little) and waves politely at the group. Trinida stands up.
"A pleasure to meet you. Come sit, they'll bring out some tea. I can answer any questions you have." Her tone is friendly, but she somewhat eye's Arrow oddly.


1) Lots of Green Tea smell
2) Trinida smells very clean like Harnor did
3) Qailee smells floral




Fife greets the two ladies and eyes the one with the angel wings carefully, because though the tea may be "harmless" his unending caution wouldn't let a woman with angel's wings go un-examined for a short period of time. He plopped down in one of the empty seats, taking care to keep himself covered up by his dark cape, but out of politeness he lowered his red hood to show his face, scars and all.

"So," Fife said, still eyeing the winged woman, "not a whole lot of people in here...is it always like this? I mean, what kind of work is Cherry Home about? Harnor said that you're all helping out the little guy, but surely that leads to bigger missions?"

[Oko and Qailee]

(I learned how to spell Millennium without spell check finally!)
The woman looks enthusiastic to tell you about Millennium Sphinx.

"What more is there to know? Besides that we're the best guild? Ok, I'll give you a rundown. Millennium Sphinx is a guild that only accepts excellence, we take the hardest jobs, because of this we expect you to be talented and have the ability to take care of yourself in the face of danger, even if you travel with a group on a job. In the past year we've sent members on various missions, the most impressive of which was Torwin went into the wilds with members of Xildiple to seek out the Dragon of Storm Jiilagnia. If dragon hunting doesn't sound impressive, I don't know what does, as dragons are the most perfect beings. As for joining? Inside each of the pavilons is a major member of our guild, they will ask you to impress them in any way you can and then afterwards you will face a trial by combat, just step in line if you're feeling brave enough.


She doesn't seem impressed by the first trick, but upon returning from the second she seems much more so. "It is a nice deceiving trick, I have seen similar before, but it is impressive nonetheless. There is an Inn, Lodging Logs nearby, you should have a ticket for a room there. I have a preference for warriors, but you may return as whatever you desire. Before you go, would you like a demonstration of what I can do? So you can see how impressive some of the members of our guild are?"

Sense Motive: You're not certain if she's impressed or not.




As Arrow sits Qailee sort of nervously looks at him. She still smiles and softly says "Hello."

After the rest sit down, a man in a red kimono robe comes forth from the back with a tray. He sets a teacup in front of each new arrival and pours a light red tinted tea into each cup.
The tea is fairly strong and of good quality. It's Green Tea with a small hint of Cherry. (Should have seen this coming).

Qailee then notices Fife staring at her and she sort of shrinks back, clearly not fond of attention, Fife is making her visibly nervous.

At Fife's questions Harnor chuckles.
"Sometimes helping the little guy IS the big mission. Groups like Millennium Sphinx are too busy talking to Lord and Ladies to help a farmer drive off wolves. I haven't done nearly as much as Trinida here. Also, I apologize, but I must man the front if that's ok? Trinida and Qailee are better than me at explaining details."
*---------if ok---------*
He bows and walks out he gives a small wave to Trinida and Qailee.

Trinida then speaks up, smiling as she does so.
"He's a bit of a liar or just being humble to be honest. Cherry Home has always been a guild where we try to care for each other above all else, in the end we have taken in housed some people who don't prefer to go to dangerous quests. Because of this we've become sort of looked down, especially by the Sphinx, because the value people differently than we do. In the past year it's been better though, ever since we've accepted Harnor. He does the work of ten men and our reputation has improved because of that. He has even taken jobs of other guilds and completed them before other guilds can even arrive on the scene... some guilds aren't fond of that in the least.

So you're right Fife, we do take big jobs and I think part of the reason why Harnor wanted to come to the festival was so he could recruit a bit more talent, he does understand that we're about family, but he doesn't want us to be laughed at just because we are one."


The woman wishes him a good day as he leaves. As he heads in the direction of Cherry Home, he notices that the surroundings become a lot more devoid of people and the neighborhood becomes more sketchy. (No knowledge history, also stalling 1 post for travel time obviously). As he ponders about flight, a small humanoid with green skin zooms overhead, obviously flying.

[Caligstro Smith]

Hmm... Yes, a bit showy. I think I made the right choice on that one. Might be a different story with Millennium Sphinx, with their emphasis on "AWESOME!" though.

[Samah]

Chistara gives Harnor a small nod, "Certainly. Thank you for the introductions." She sips her tea and makes a appreciative little sigh. It was delicious! Chistara did enjoy a quality green tea; of all the goods her parents carried green tea had been one of her favorites. She sipped on her tea, paying close attention to Trinida as she spoke. With every scentence she became more and more enchanted with Cherry Home and decided to say as much. "Your guild sounds lovely. I don't mind the a good brawl and scuffle, provided that I have something or someone to fight for. I'm an old hand at it. I used to be a guard for my family's trading caravann and I'm decently proficient with both a greataxe and spells. If you would have me, I'd be quite interested in joining." Pulling one of her tickets from her beltpouch she slides it across the table Trinida. "Are you the person to whom I give this?

[sparky9042]

Ioriston considers a response for a moment. "I'm interested. I have one...worry. I did just walk away from Silver Flag earlier, as I am not interested in joining a religious guild. I am curious -- is this guild particularly associated with the Temple of Dragon? I am interested in joining a guild, not so much a cult."

[JanusJones]

As Arrow sits Qailee sort of nervously looks at him. She still smiles and softly says "Hello."

After the rest sit down, a man in a red kimono robe comes forth from the back with a tray. He sets a teacup in front of each new arrival and pours a light red tinted tea into each cup.
The tea is fairly strong and of good quality. It's Green Tea with a small hint of Cherry. (Should have seen this coming).

Qailee then notices Fife staring at her and she sort of shrinks back, clearly not fond of attention, Fife is making her visibly nervous.

At Fife's questions Harnor chuckles.
"Sometimes helping the little guy IS the big mission. Groups like Millennium Sphinx are too busy talking to Lord and Ladies to help a farmer drive off wolves. I haven't done nearly as much as Trinida here. Also, I apologize, but I must man the front if that's ok? Trinida and Qailee are better than me at explaining details."
*---------if ok---------*
He bows and walks out he gives a small wave to Trinida and Qailee.

Trinida then speaks up, smiling as she does so.
"He's a bit of a liar or just being humble to be honest. Cherry Home has always been a guild where we try to care for each other above all else, in the end we have taken in housed some people who don't prefer to go to dangerous quests. Because of this we've become sort of looked down, especially by the Sphinx, because the value people differently than we do. In the past year it's been better though, ever since we've accepted Harnor. He does the work of ten men and our reputation has improved because of that. He has even taken jobs of other guilds and completed them before other guilds can even arrive on the scene... some guilds aren't fond of that in the least.

So you're right Fife, we do take big jobs and I think part of the reason why Harnor wanted to come to the festival was so he could recruit a bit more talent, he does understand that we're about family, but he doesn't want us to be laughed at just because we are one."


Arrow's eyes have yet to leave the table. He inhales deeply over the tea, staring at it, before sipping it cautiously. When he does, a warm smile spreads. He listens carefully as Trinida speaks, eyes never leaving his tea. When she's done, there's a pause.

"S'good tea - thank'ee." He's silent a while longer, as though struggling with something.

"Ahm. I been out thar, doin' lil' jobs, fer' a good time. Plenny o' folks need helpin' but don' get none - no coin fer' it. Don' mean they don' need help. Don' mean they should suffer."

He takes a breath, as though speaking so much is difficult.

"Like me mam. And sis."

[Oko and Qailee]

Trinida looks somewhat confused at Chistaras question.
"Did Gilde not tell you guys what to do with them? Yes you may hand them to me, basically you hand them to anyone with a guild symbol, except for the waiters roaming around the city... Are you heading out?"

Qailee is the first to almost inquire about Arrow.
"If it's ok that I ask... never mind"
She stops as tough afraid to offend by asking Trinida takes over, trying to diffuse the somberness somewhat.
"Yes, and here we try to focus more on people who need help rather than the politicians and higher guilds telling us what to do. What kind of small jobs have you done? I see you carry a bow, are you a hunter or ranger perhaps?"

The same server comes by and sets a plate with a slice of Cherry Pie in front of each guest. He offers one to Trinida who refuses.
"If I ate a slice of pie for every group I talked to today I'm sure I'd end up unable to lift myself let alone my swords."
Qailee takes a slice and politely thanks the sever. She actually speaks up for once, teasingly.
"It doesn't stop you back at home from eating entire ones."
Trinida fakes a glare at her.


-----------------------------
Torma has arrived to the front of Cherry Home.

You arrive at a sort of small open plaza that look only marginally better than the previous surroundings. Once there you see at one end of the plaza a dainty building with an oak sign that reads "Xilping tea store, honored to be hosting Cherry Home!" In front of the building is the easily recognizable Cherry Home guild symbol.

A man walks out of the Cherry Home building.
The man is wearing a fairly tight solid black shirt and loose black trousers tucked into black boots. He is tall and athletically built with a tiny bit of scruff on his face. He has opaque short black hair.
The man immediately spots you and waves
"Hello! Greetings from Cherry Home! Would you like to enjoy a cup of tea with us?"


The woman immediately looks angry at Ioriston, her eyes blaze in crimson as she talks back to Ioristion.

"The Temple of Dragon is not. A. Cult! We're people who are unified under a set of beliefs, not a bunch of backwater ritualistic shaman sacrificing people for a petty god! At any rate, no Millennium Sphinx has no religious affiliation. But I do."

[RedSand]

Maddox stops and tries to center himself. Before, when Paimon took hold of him, he'd try to drink him down, but undeath had long made him immune to alcohol. For now, he stood in place, dancing slowly in what he hoped was an inconspicuous manner. He approached the entrance with the sun and moon under it, took a long, very pointless breath, and dropped into Child of Shadow, hoping the wraithlike effect of the stance would make his compulsive dancing seem less strange. He enters the interview room.

[Samah]

"No, I'm not heading out; I simply wanted to give it over now so as not to forget later. I certainly couldn't leave before pie!" She smiles and takes a bite of pie. "Could you tell me a little about your founder? And perhaps about your guild's home town?"

[Valery]

(I learned how to spell Millennium without spell check finally!)


As Arrow sits Qailee sort of nervously looks at him. She still smiles and softly says "Hello."

After the rest sit down, a man in a red kimono robe comes forth from the back with a tray. He sets a teacup in front of each new arrival and pours a light red tinted tea into each cup.
The tea is fairly strong and of good quality. It's Green Tea with a small hint of Cherry. (Should have seen this coming).

Qailee then notices Fife staring at her and she sort of shrinks back, clearly not fond of attention, Fife is making her visibly nervous.

At Fife's questions Harnor chuckles.
"Sometimes helping the little guy IS the big mission. Groups like Millennium Sphinx are too busy talking to Lord and Ladies to help a farmer drive off wolves. I haven't done nearly as much as Trinida here. Also, I apologize, but I must man the front if that's ok? Trinida and Qailee are better than me at explaining details."
*---------if ok---------*
He bows and walks out he gives a small wave to Trinida and Qailee.

Trinida then speaks up, smiling as she does so.
"He's a bit of a liar or just being humble to be honest. Cherry Home has always been a guild where we try to care for each other above all else, in the end we have taken in housed some people who don't prefer to go to dangerous quests. Because of this we've become sort of looked down, especially by the Sphinx, because the value people differently than we do. In the past year it's been better though, ever since we've accepted Harnor. He does the work of ten men and our reputation has improved because of that. He has even taken jobs of other guilds and completed them before other guilds can even arrive on the scene... some guilds aren't fond of that in the least.

So you're right Fife, we do take big jobs and I think part of the reason why Harnor wanted to come to the festival was so he could recruit a bit more talent, he does understand that we're about family, but he doesn't want us to be laughed at just because we are one."


Fife McDougal takes the tea set before him, sniffs it, and casts Detect Poison on the tea while he listens to the conversation. He was keenly aware that Harnor wouldn't be on to lie as long as they desired recruits, but Fife just had to be sure. The past had taught him that your life runs short without an over abundance of caution at your side. After moment passes, and the tea comes back negative for poisons. He takes a drink and is delighted to find that the tea is delicious.

Fife sighed, as the tea mellowed him out. His muscles relaxed, as did his mind, and he removed the cape that cloacked his body, revealing a chain mail vest and a sickle attached at his hip. Resting the cape on the back of the chair, Fife said, "Ah, I haven't had a moment to relax in a while. You'll forgive me if I seem odd or distrusting, life has not been immensely fortunate these past years. If you're looking for strength I can give you mine, because like Chistara I seek something more from the guilds I'd like to join. I have been looking for a new family." He pauses to take another sip of tea, "They're all dead you see. So, given the possibility of being apart of a new family, I would like to ask two more questions. First, do you see this guild becoming a greater force in the country, a place where we can rise to prominence together? And second, can I count on all of you to keep me as safe as I will try to keep you?"

Fife holds out a ticket to Trinida saying, "If the answer is yes to both, I'd like you to take the ticket."

[JanusJones]

Arrow looked about to respond to Trinida, though it is Qailee who his eyes flick up to, briefly, as she asks about him.

When Fife speaks up, though, he falls silent again, taking the pie that's offered and quickly, hungrily eating it with his fingers. Though the process isn't pretty, it's efficient, and he spills not a crumb, shoveling the pieces into his mouth with rough, callous, but dextrous fingers.

If he gets asked again, he'd love to chat. He's just too shy with groups to manage it, though the atmosphere - and even Qailee's reciprocal shyness - have made him far more comfortable than he's been since he got to the city.

LOVING this vibe! REALLY bringing this character out and giving me a chance to feel through his awkward sincerity - thanks!

[sparky9042]

Ioriston backs off. "My apologies, then. I merely find your religion, as I do most religions...strange. What is odd, though, is how it is not represented among Silver Flag's guild -- they have somehow managed to convince members of the House of Death and The Divine One to work together. At any rate, I should perhaps present myself to the major members of your guild." Ioriston then summons an invisible protective shield for both himself and his psicrystal. Afterwards, he holds his psicrystal and focuses on it briefly.

Inertial Armor, sharing power with psicrystal, augmented 4 (total gain of +6 AC armor bonus).
Share Pain w/psicrystal

[Caligstro Smith]

Seeing that Cherry Home is being hosted in a tea shop, Torma's face once again breaks into a wide grin, and he stops still for a moment in the middle of the plaza before continuing his approach, the previous lightness in his step transformed into a veritable spring. He laughs loudly, though with his deep, gravely voice, it almost sounds like a large dog barking,

"HA HA HA HA!! I suspect I will like you lot, if your choice of host is any indication! I LOVE tea! I'm Torma, by the way, a bender and herbalist." As he introduced himself he reached up to the tall man, as high as he could, to offer a handshake.

[Oko and Qailee]

The inside of the room is a courthouse that was bright as day on the leftmost side and dark as night on the right, the light and shadow of the rooms itself seemed to be battling, as if both trying to push against the other, but always tying towards the middle. A man with gray hair and robes sits at the judges chair, on his right hand he holds a morningstar and on his left a sickle. He speaks to Maddox.

"Good mornings, night, and all the stars to you! To whom do I speak? And what can you tell me about yourself that would have the wisest of all the guilds take interest in you? I am Solli, cleric of Solaris and Lunaris, pleased to gaze upon you. You look odd, do you not perhaps belong in the Home of Death?"


She calms down and replies,
"There are some members of The Temple of Dragon in The Silver Flag, but cooperation with religions of folly isn't really part of our code so we stray away from it, not as much as Cherry Home though. Be my guest, jsut get in any Pavilion line."

(speeding things up, not going to make you wait in line, good call on pre-buffing)
The line moves fairly quickly, and most people who go in seem to come out with a few injuries and looking upset. As Ioriston gets to the front of the line a voice comes from inside.
"Next!"

As Ioriston steps in he finds the Pavilion nearly completely empty. Along the walls are non-masterwork versions of nearly every weapon Ioriston can think of from bows, to scythes, to spiked chains, etc. At the center of the room stands a single man. He wears a magnificently decorated Mithril half plate in which the symbol of Millennium Sphinx has been engraved on the center. A guisarme is strapped to his back. His skin and hair are both a dark brown. As he speaks he seems somewhat impatient.

"The name is Torwin, and you? If you're ready we would like to ask you to first display some combat skill."




Trinida accepts Chistaras ticket.
"Of course! The guild itself is actually the largest guild building of the 8 minor guilds, odd considering we have the least members. We're located in Manla, East of here and at a higher elevation, which is common for areas that grow cherries. Sadly, this means winters get cold, so bring a warm blanket. Our founder and current guild leader is Snow and she is currently.... erm, being the dryad over there." She indicates toward the tree looking woman that has snow upon her.

At Fife's questions Trinida looks at him curiously.
The first and last time someone asked that question he chose to join the guild anyway, and he's outside now. I will give you the same answer I gave him. Cherry Home isn't about being a great force, if you want that then maybe Millennium Sphinx will match you better. But certainly, Harnor and I alone have made Cherry Home more... stand out-ish in the past year. I will not promise you that we will be powerful, as that isn't our goal. By my life and The Divine One himself I would do anything in my power to keep you alive though."

Qailee in the meantime whispers to arrow, still nervously, but clearly a bit more open and cheerful.
"It's good isn't it?"

-------

The man reaches down and gives him a firm handshake.
"A pleasure to meet you Torma. Fancy seeing a dwarf here! My name is Harnor Vitsiharen. Ha, well if tea is your thing, that's nearly all that is ever served at Cherry Home! I don't mind a good beer every once in a while though. Would you like to stop by inside and have a cup? It's possible you may not have had tea quite like ours before."

(I regret having to re look up the exact spelling of Harnors last name every time he introduces himself.

[Autopsibiofeeder]

Jot (Girelda)

Gireda shrugs. "I would be happy to see what you do." Then, she adds with a smile: "I am mostly curious as to why I would want to join this particular guild. What does it offer for thieves, for hunters such as yourself? What does it offer for Priests, for mages....for muscle for hire?"

[JanusJones]

Qailee in the meantime whispers to arrow, still nervously, but clearly a bit more open and cheerful.
"It's good isn't it?"

Arrow looks up, a finger in his mouth. He smiles, and this time the expression reaches his eyes - and his eyes meet hers.

"Aye. I've not much chance t' eat such things. Thank'ee fer' the kindness - 's in short supply where I hail from."

[sparky9042]

"You can call me Ioriston. I presume you are familiar with psionics? I wield the power of the mind in combat." Ioriston then reaches into his mind and enhances his own inner strength, sharing the results with his psicrystal. "I am prepared. What would you have me display? I could summon a wall of flame or cold but that would likely wreak havoc on much of the surroundings. And, more importantly, on what would you have me display my ability?" Ioriston focuses, preparing to attack whatever is necessary.

Vigor, augmented by 4, gaining 25 temporary HP as is my psicrystal (it has a duration in minutes, not hours like the other two, and I don't have extend power yet).

Erm. Initiative? [roll0]

[Oko and Qailee]

"What we offer is variety greater than any guild. We have the second largest guild building, but the most of anything useful you can think of. We have the most spellbooks you can copy from, the most martial trainers you can train with, the most cleric and healers, the most smiths, the most artificers. If you're looking for simple pleasures, our guild hall is the largest, having the most servers, types of alcohol and food. For myself if offers the most jobs, the government basically sends the majority of their "Wanted" to us. For thieves beyond the above, we also have the most spare clothing for disguises. A richer and more diverse guild you will not find, the only thing we ask of you is that you work hard."

As she speaks wind begins to rise around her and swirl about her very rapidly, Girelda can feel it sort of "pushin away."
"I, on top of being an exceptional duelist, have some mastery of the wind allowing me to travel over twice the speed of another person and deflect weapons that would harm me."


Qailee once again shy's a bit from Arrow once their eyes meet.

Torwin replies. As he speaks a hissing can be heard from the other end of the tent.
"At Millennium Sphinx we don't have the most diversity, the most faith, or the most members. What we do have though is the most talent. We don't have as many spell books in our library as Gilde, but we have the best ones. We don't have as many Clerics or Paladins as Silver Flag, but have the wisest ones. We don't have as many sorcerers as Klanen, but we have the most talented ones. We have the best members, so we choose to recruit the best members, and so, with that I want you to defeat this snake I captured last winter."

From the opposite end of the Pavilion a huge black snake has entered. Its eyes are fierce and it looks somewhat deranged. Torwin steps aside.

"Don't worry, we've kept it from killing anyone today."


-The snake is 30 feet away coiled into a 10x10 space
-I went ahead an rolled Knowledge nature for you, getting a 25. You recognize it as a Dire Snake, a rare beast mostly found in the wilds, but they sometimes travel into Xil. They have a poisonous bite attack (con dmg) and are exceptionally good at constricting (improved grab).
-Imagine the room as a 40x40 empty room essentially, Torwin has walked 20ft away from the center
-You won initiative, congratulations!
-I know this seems like I kind of intense first fight, but it's not as bad as it looks.

[Caligstro Smith]

Torma gave a small half-bow at the offer, "Indeed I would, thank you! But first... Harnor, you said your name was? Are you by chance the fellow who joined Cherry Home just last year? The one Millennium Sphinx was said to be courting so eagerly? My inkeep at the Lodging Logs mentioned you not half an hour past, while we chatted over a late lunch, and of everyone in Cherry Home, you were the one I'd most hoped to meet!"

*Interesting, that one as strong as Millennium Sphinx seemed to think him didn't see past this parlor trick of mine. Still, how fortunate to find him so easily!*

[sparky9042]

Ioriston takes aim at the snake, firing a ray of cold energy from his finger, though it comes at the apparent cost of some of his health.

Overchannelling. Overchannel damage: [roll0]

Attack (ranged touch): [roll1]

Damage: [roll2]

[Oko and Qailee]

(That ranged touch roll)

(question, why are you suing inertial armor and mithril if the two don't stack? If it's ok if I ask, it seems like an odd choice.)

Ioriston fires off the ray, but it veers too far to the right, the snake lunges at him but his fangs simply scrape on Ioristons Inertial Armor. It look quizzical and angry at what had just happened.


Harnor laughs at Torma's questions.
"Oh, the stories are wildly exaggerated! I applied there and got accepted, I just chose somewhere else. I didn't even bother to try to get into tomorrows game as I know I would be outmatched for major guild promotion. DId they tell you any fantastic stories?"
(Sense motive rolled for you, you sense no dishonesty)

[JanusJones]

Qailee once again shy's a bit from Arrow once their eyes meet.

Arrow immediately looks down again, and his shoulders tense. His hands fall in his lap. There's an awkward pause, and then he suddenly stands, rummages at his belt, and produces the Cherry Home ticket, which he sets on the table.

"Thank'ee kindly for the food an' kindness. 'Twas more'n I've had in a long haul." He nods to the table, eyes down, then begins to collect his quiver and bow.

Aw man, I was hoping she'd get him to come out of his shell a bit! Still, what fun!

[Caligstro Smith]

"Well to be honest, she couldn't remember any particular tales. Only that Millennium Sphinx wanted you enough for T'nul to invite you himself. But in any case, just the fact that they made you an offer is enough to pique my interest. I'd guess from what little I've heard of Cherry Home so far, that it has little ambition. But you had the drive to try for Millennium Sphinx. What was it that drew you to Cherry Home? I will ask the same of those inside, but I guess you might have different reasons than they?"

[Autopsibiofeeder]

Jot (Girelda)

Girelda listens intently to what the blue lady has to say. The resources....trainers, spellbooks...it all sounded very much like something that Jot would want. Girelda, however, was sort-of bored with the prospect. A more obscure guild may be more fitting for her. Fortunately, Jot has a decent grip on Girelda, much better than on Rahir. When the display of martial-wind-magic is over she smiles appreciatively. "I see. Gilde might be the right place for a generalist like myself." She rummages in her Handy Haversack and produces a greatsword: "I am always open to learn tricks with this little toothpick," then she produces her spellbook, "and more spells in my book would for sure be interesting." She closes the sack again. "Do you think the guild is looking for someone that could jump into any niche that is needed? And, if so, what would I have to do to get enlisted?"

[Oko and Qailee]

(Work again until late tonight, so don't expect a post for a few hours)
(@Fife + Chistara, so you don't miss it, note there is a post above for you guys even though I'm moving forward with arrow/torma, they are in the same relative area though)
Trinda manages a polite smile.
"It was a pleasure to meet you Arrow."
(Sense Motive: Reveals nothing)

She doesn't pick up the ticket immediately, Qailee looks at her and takes the ticket.
(Sense Motive: It's clear to you Qailee wanted to make sure the ticket was taken.)


"I remember that, T'nul is a nice guy, but he just wasn't convincing enough. I joined Cherry Home because it felt like the right thing to do. I thought about what it would be like to be in Sphinx, but I don't regret the decision I made. This year no other guild has harassed Cherry Home yet, whereas last year they had Gilde, Sphinx, and Klanen harassment in the first hour, Klanen wasn't bad, they just wanted everyone to drink with them... a lot. I like to think that maybe me being here has made a difference. They have become my family and I can't even actually consider leaving them."

"We have tons of things to do yearly, flexibility and the ability to jump into anything is a plus. I think I've seen enough about you for now and I have others I must speak with of course. If you'd like you may leave a ticket with me, it will be returned to you at your room at Lodging Logs if we select you. If you still want to show off how you "become another person" I will still be here for another two hours."

Girelda does easy notice there are several other eager people who want to speak with Huevosa.

[RedSand]

Maddox paced and circled around the room as he spoke. "I am belonging to Death, your honor, but I have little desire to be beholden to the Queen. Her worship and her realm are both dreary, pitiable things, as I can personally attest to both. I was hoping the courts of the Sun and Moon would make for a richer congregation, as I imagine you'd claim.

"But why I'm here is scarcely the point of all this." He grabs his short sword, still in its scabbard, and twists and flourishes it in his hands. "Here is why you should want for me in my roster: I am a trained martial adept with a inclination towards wielding twin blades in a swift and agile manner. My skillset includes stealth, negotiation and intimidation. I am also a scholar of the planes and a trained mortician. But, first and foremost...I am a binder capable of combining with vestiges of up to the third level. In other words, my talents can vary per day by the widest of margins. Tomorrow, will you require an archer? The next day, a scout? The day after, a swimmer? Grant me access into your divine halls, Sir Solli, and I will deliver to you flexibility, efficiency, and style."

[Autopsibiofeeder]

Jot (Girelda)

"Of course, sure thing." Girelda rummages in her sack and produces a ticket. "There you go." Then, she makes her way to the inn to get a room and decide whether she feels like impressing her further.

[JanusJones]

Trinda manages a polite smile.
"It was a pleasure to meet you Arrow."
(Sense Motive: Reveals nothing)

She doesn't pick up the ticket immediately, Qailee looks at her and takes the ticket.
(Sense Motive: It's clear to you Qailee wanted to make sure the ticket was taken.)

Arrow nods, absently, and with a quick glance at Qailee, shuffles out, bow in hand. Outside, he nods to Harnor, then stops a short distance away, looking ... lost. He contemplates the tickets in his hands. Innocence? Millenium Sphinx? Gilde? He knew nothing about them.

I was hoping for a bit more conversation there. Any help to get Arrow moving would be great - what other guilds might he have seen helping out with slavers?

[Caligstro Smith]

"What do you mean, 'it felt like the right thing to do?' 'Right' in what sense? Did it feel like you would be helping right a wrong? Or some other sort of 'right?'

What I'm really looking for are your initial reasons for joining. I understand how your comrades can be like family, and the bonds you share now. But last year at this time, you, like I am now, were first hearing the pitches from the guilds, trying to decide where you'd spend much of the rest of your life. This festival gives very little time to truly get to know your prospective guildmates, and surely you didn't come to see them all as a family you could never leave after just an hour or two among them?"

[Valery]

[SPOILER=Torma, Chistara, Fife, Arrow]

At Fife's questions Trinida looks at him curiously.
The first and last time someone asked that question he chose to join the guild anyway, and he's outside now. I will give you the same answer I gave him. Cherry Home isn't about being a great force, if you want that then maybe Millennium Sphinx will match you better. But certainly, Harnor and I alone have made Cherry Home more... stand out-ish in the past year. I will not promise you that we will be powerful, as that isn't our goal. By my life and The Divine One himself I would do anything in my power to keep you alive though."

Fife smiles curiously and lets out another sigh. He hands the ticket over to Trinida and says, "If you can promise all that then your guild is worth a great deal. I have one or two more stops to make, but I'm glad I came to Cherry Home first. There's much more spirit in here than I imagined."

Fife tosses the rest of the tea down his throat and takes his cape. He begins to make his leave, when he turns round to say, "Thank you for the tea! If no one should obliterate me in my next interview, or on the way there, I should hope to return here for a little while to chat some more if that be alright?"

[sparky9042]

Ioriston fires again, disregarding any attack that may come from the snake.

Energy Ray, overchannelled.

Overchannel damage: [roll0]

Attack: [roll1]
Damage: [roll2]

[Oko and Qailee]

The man leans forward, clearly interested.
"Oh? I am familiar with binding, could to perhaps demonstrate your ability to bind a vestige? I will provide you with anything you require to do so."


Girelda makes her way to The Lodging Logs. The building was essentially a massive stone cube with many holes for windows in it. Inside the first floor is a small, semi tavernish area. The innkeep was a portly woman who looked fairly bored currently, she sat at a counter that had a doorway right behind it. Her gray hair was tied in a bun, her wrinkled face showed her age, and her earring's , made obviously of fake gold, and dress, a dull red, told of her lack of wealth. The inside of the inn could easily be described as dull but clean, wooden floors, gray unpainted stone walls, a few plain wooden tables and a tiny, currently unmanned and unstocked bar. There are only 3 people besides the woman within the room and they're all sitting at one of the tables.

A bowl with a spoon also sat on the counter.


(Chistara please also see above post)

As Arrow and Fife begin to head out Trinida replies to Fife. "Absolutely, we'll be here if you have time. If you're afraid of dying I'd avoid Millennium Sphinx!" Qailee speaks up as well. "It was nice to meet you both."

(Sorry Janus, I would have put more, but I was waiting on Samah a lot and stuff. Also Qailee is as quiet as you are. Minka has missions regarding Chi/wilds, where slavery is not illegal, it is illegal in Xil though.)

As both of you walk out the door you see Harnor now talking to perhaps the oddest dwarf to ever live. Likewise, Torma now catches sight of the Deathsinger and Arrow.
Harnor sighs as he replies to Torma.
"Well, you certainly don't like vague answers... I don't really want to go into detail too much on what happened that day or the day after. Ok, so how can I explain this... when I chose Cherry Home over the Sphinx it was the difference of which guild needed me more. The Sphinx is still strong without me, even if they supposedly wanted me. Something happened that day that made me feel like Cherry Home was filled with good people who needed my help more than Sphinx will ever needed my help, and that's why it felt like the right thing to do. I don't know if that will help in your decision, But-"

He pauses noticing Arrow and Fife heading out.
"Heading out? What did you think? Hopefully they weren't too quiet."


Unfortunately things weren't looking good for Ioriston, his second ray also managed to veer to the side. Perhaps, even worse, was that the snakes aim was not as bad. It reared its head back and lashed at Ioriston once again, this time Ioriston was greeted with pain as a fang sank into him. He takes [roll0] damage (obv you split that in half for share pain). Ioriston, does not feel any venom from the snake, oddly enough.

The snake after biting begins to wind its tail rapidly around Ioriston (opposed grapple, you have to beat a [roll1]).

[JanusJones]

Arrow shuffles a bit. "Aye ... nay ... well, I'm not much one for talkin', either. 'Twas good pie n' tea." He nods to Harnor. "Thank'ee kindly."

Stepping quickly, he moves towards Minka. Perhaps they'd have some sort of work that he'd be suited for.

[Samah]

Chistara tucks into her pie neatly but with gusto and glances over to the table where Snow sits. [COLOR="#800080"]"She seems rather popular, your leader."l Standing, she makes small bows to both Trinida and Qailee. "Its been a pleasure meeting you both and your guild sounds enchanting. If you will excuse me, I'll take my leave to see what else the city can show me." She smiles at them and walks out, looking at her map before heading towards the hotel. She'd like to see her room before heading off to another guild.

[Caligstro Smith]

Torma looks over at the two just stepping out of the tea shop, the two tall humans, one a worn-looking archer -- swarthy, scarred, and strong -- and the other pale and more strikingly dressed in a rich crimson cloak and wearing tinted spectacles.

Before them stood what appeared to be the oddest dwarf to ever live. At a height of just 3 feet 7 inches tall, he was so short that one might think him a child or perhaps a particularly tall gnome, were it not for his stocky build, rough features, and magnificent, thick gray beard that hung almost to his knees. He spoke with a brightness and animation most uncharacteristic for one of his race, and as he talked he gestured dramatically and fidgeted a bit in a manner much at odds with his apparent great age. Wrinkles lined his face, with laughter lines around his mouth cutting deepest of all where a huge grin was spread across his face. He wore monk's robes, coal black with a light tan trim, a wide, dark brown conical straw hat, a heavy brown woolen cloak, and thick wooden geta that clacked noisily as he shifted his weight from foot to foot, and he carried a polished wooden staff a little shorter than himself, with a square protrusion and two metal pins a quarter of the way from each end.

*after Harnor and Arrow speak*

"Ah! Two other prospective members! I'm Tor.." Torma begins, but Arrow has already quickly started off down a side street.

"Ah... One other prospective member of Cherry Home! I'm Torma, a bender and herbalist," he begins again in his deep, gravely voice, addressing the pale man, "It might be that on the morrow we will be comrades! I hope your tour of the guilds has been going well so far today?"

As he says this, another tall human, though this time a powerfully built brown-haired woman in sturdy traveling clothes and chainmail, emerged from Xilping Tea. "Ah! Yet another potential comrade!" he exclaimed with is usual wide grin. "Torma, a bender and herbalist. I hope your tour of the guilds has also been going well today?"

[Autopsibiofeeder]

Jot (Girelda)

"G'day!" Girelda walks towards the owner. "I believe I have a room here....Girelda's the name."

[Samah]

Chistara smiles broadly down at the dwarf, "Hello and well met, Torma!My name is Chistara Tanaruk and I'm a greataxe wielding, spell slinging former caravan guard. She extends a hand to Torma to shake. "My tour is going well! Cherry Home is my current pick; the people I've met so far have been most kind."

[Caligstro Smith]

Torma reaches up as high as he can and shakes her hand.

As she shakes Torma's hand, she suddenly realizes that she hasn't been looking at a small old dwarf at all, but a skinny halfling approaching middle age, with only a patchy gray stubble on his weak chin. And he was even shorter -- so short, in fact, even for that race, that from a distance he still might pass for a child. He wore the same clothing, though proportionally smaller of course, and it was still dusty from the road.

"Good to meet you Chistara! And what an exciting life it sounds you've led! I am glad your day fares well thus far. This is only my first visit of the day... But don't let me distract you further. Whether we find ourselves comrades on the morrow or not, I wish you good fortune."

Torma waits for Harnor, Chistara, and the unknown pale man to speak. When the two other prospects have gone on their way, he turns back to Harnor, "I would not pry if you do not to wish to share more on the matter, and I thank you for what you have said of your perspective. I would ask just one more thing before I step in for tea and to meet with the rest of your family: what is it that you do? What skills did you bring to Cherry Home?"

[Valery]

As Arrow and Fife begin to head out Trinida replies to Fife. "Absolutely, we'll be here if you have time. If you're afraid of dying I'd avoid Millennium Sphinx!" Qailee speaks up as well. "It was nice to meet you both."

(Sorry Janus, I would have put more, but I was waiting on Samah a lot and stuff. Also Qailee is as quiet as you are. Minka has missions regarding Chi/wilds, where slavery is not illegal, it is illegal in Xil though.)

As both of you walk out the door you see Harnor now talking to perhaps the oddest dwarf to ever live. Likewise, Torma now catches sight of the Deathsinger and Arrow.
Harnor sighs as he replies to Torma.
"Well, you certainly don't like vague answers... I don't really want to go into detail too much on what happened that day or the day after. Ok, so how can I explain this... when I chose Cherry Home over the Sphinx it was the difference of which guild needed me more. The Sphinx is still strong without me, even if they supposedly wanted me. Something happened that day that made me feel like Cherry Home was filled with good people who needed my help more than Sphinx will ever needed my help, and that's why it felt like the right thing to do. I don't know if that will help in your decision, But-"

He pauses noticing Arrow and Fife heading out.
"Heading out? What did you think? Hopefully they weren't too quiet."


Fife says to Harnor, "It was enlightening. While your guild wasn't able to promise to meet every one of my requirements, your's had a determination that I liked, that is to say, you have an identity. And....what attracts me most of all...you're a family. That alone could help me become strong enough to complete my ultimate quest! I'm willing to bank on a new family."

Fife scans over the curious dwarf. He seemed far to cheery to Fife, and at this strangeness, proceeded to revert to his original survival instinct mode. The instinct in this case was, once again, to shout, "Don't kill me! I'm not done living yet! My Queen, why do you insist on throw these ridiculous circumstances my way? Am I to be murdered by an overly cheery drawf???" Fife falls to his knees and begins to roll about the ground saying, "Is this what you want my Queen? To become one with the dirt? Must I die as my brethren did???"

Fife rolls about the ground for a few seconds more until he realizes that he is not being murdered. He stops to look up at the dwarf and whispers, "You're not going to kill me are you? I'm overreacting again?"

[sparky9042]

Ioriston chooses not to speak, as he is being crushed by a large snake. Instead, he has his psicrystal transmit a message to Torwin on his behalf.

My master would like to surrender at this point, his victory is in his words nigh-impossible.

[Oko and Qailee]

Arrow walks away before Harnor can reply to him. Harnor gives a sort of curious look at him as he walks away. As Torma addresses Fife, Chistara is just leaving the building, Trinida wishes her good luck and Qailee smiles and waves goodbye.

Harnor remains quiet as Chistara and Torma speak. Once they're finished and before Chistara begins to head off Harnor addresses her.
"We'll I'm glad you liked the guild! Hopefully we'll see you tomorrow."

He tried to answer Torma's question "I'm a-", but is cut off by Fife.
----
"It was enlightening. While your guild wasn't able to promise to meet every one of my requirements, your's had a determination that I liked, that is to say, you have an identity. And....what attracts me most of all...you're a family. That alone could help me become strong enough to complete my ultimate quest! I'm willing to bank on a new family."
----
"Well, that's excellent news!

At Fifes breakdown he looks a bit concerned
"Are you ok? No... no one's going to hurt you, we're literally the least violent guild ever..."

He finally addresses Torma's line on inquiry.
"I'm an amateur spellcaster, so to speak. I know some spells, but nothing to write home about."


(You guys begin travelling towards the inn)

Torwin whistles and the serpent quickly quickly ceases to constrict Ioriston before it withdraws back to the other side of the Pavilion. Torwin looks at Ioriston angrily.
"I'm not impressed. I don't think you understand, this is the guild that fights dragons, stops cultists from destroying a city, and gets the McGuffin. If you can't fight a serpent maybe you should consider another guild. Maybe Trashy Home? Or our dear mop Innocent."

"Ooooh, well aren't you a lovely lady! Do you have your ticket?" Upon Girelda revealing her ticket the portly woman searches for a moment underneath the counter. THe clinking of many keys could be heard until she finally pulls one with the number 762 on it.

"I'm afraid you're a tad early for the cooks and the barista, we have some stew warmed up though, a sweet little dwarf asked for some earlier, a nice change from the usual grumpy and stubborn dwarf. If you just looking to rest, the room should be ready, it's on the 7th floor."

(Forgot to mention, there is a staircase in the far corner of the room.)

[sparky9042]

"Perhaps your definition of "impressive" involves wasteful and tedious psychokinesis or evocation. I shall take my talents elsewhere to a guild that might have actual use for someone specializing in clairsentience, and the forethought to interview prospective members on what it is they actually do. Hitting is not my specialty. Knowing is. Good day."

Ioriston leaves the Millennium Sphinx pavilion, and pauses to reflect on his failure, considering briefly his next destination.

KNOWLEDGE TIME:

Minka:
Psychic: [roll0]
Local: [roll1]
Geog: [roll2]
Psicrystal Local: [roll3]
Psicrystal Geog: [roll4]

Klanen:
Psychic: [roll5]
Local: [roll6]
History: [roll7]
Psicrystal Local: [roll8]
Psicrystal History: [roll9]

Cherry Home:
Psychic: [roll10]
Local: [roll11]
History: [roll12]
Psicrystal Local: [roll13]
Psicrystal History: [roll14]

Innocent:
Psychic: [roll15]
Local: [roll16]
Psicrystal Local: [roll17]

Porter Chill:
Psychic: [roll18]
Local: [roll19]
Psicrystal Local: [roll20]

[Caligstro Smith]

As Fife breaks down and rolls around in the dirt, shouting, Torma just looks down at him (what a rare occurrence!), looking confused. When asked if he won't be killing Fife, he replies, "Er... no I'm not killing you..?"

Once Fife has headed off down the road he turns back to Harnor, "What a strange person." He just looks off in the direction Fife went, still looking puzzled. After a few moments more, he gives a small jump as he turns quickly back to Harnor, "A spellcaster you say? Any sort of specialty? I know many choose to focus in an an area or two?"

[evyldead]

Serephina kinda nods her head and walks away going to the next guild to her right. She tries to make her way through the crowd but they seem relentless but she manages to get through them.

[Valery]

As Fife breaks down and rolls around in the dirt, shouting, Torma just looks down at him (what a rare occurrence!), looking confused. When asked if he won't be killing Fife, he replies, "Er... no I'm not killing you..?"

Once Fife has headed off down the road he turns back to Harnor, "What a strange person." Just just looks off in the direction Fife went, still looking puzzled. After a few moments more, he gives a small jump as he turns quickly back to Harnor, "A spellcaster you say? Any sort of specialty? I know many choose to focus in an an area or two?"

Realizing that no one is going to smite his stupid head, Fife picks himself off the ground, apologizes, re-affixes his tinted glasses, and begins to walk cautiously towards his next stop, Minka. On the way he returns to the crowded streets of the city, bustling with the celebrations of the day.

[Samah]

As she shakes Torma's hand, she suddenly realizes that she hasn't been looking at a small old dwarf at all, but a skinny halfling approaching middle age, with only a patchy gray stubble on his weak chin. And he was even shorter -- so short, in fact, even for that race, that from a distance he still might pass for a child. He wore the same clothing, though proportionally smaller of course, and it was still dusty from the road.

Will save: 1d20+4
5+4 = 9 (roll from the srd)

Chistara beams, "Thank you, sir! I wish you good fortune on your own travels, as well!" She transfers her gaze and smile to Harnor and extends her hand to him as well. During Fife's breakdown she looks perplexed and concerned. Such a fuss upon meeting such a cheerful dwarf! Once he's finished rolling about she finishes addressing Harnor."As do I, sir, as do I. I am most impressed and charmed by your guild. I think I'll go pick up and nice blanket and sturdy cloak." She gives him a small, cheerful, wink before waving one last time and striding away.

[Oko and Qailee]

"Oh boy, man, when my autobiography is out you'll be the first to get it!" He replies jokingly. "Mostly from the school of Illusion."
Sense Motive (25, nice!): Harnor is clearly trying to tell minimal details about himself, it doesn't seem as though he's trying to mislead you in anyway though.


(Oh boy, tons of knowledges!)


Minka is led by Greywatch, a man known for having a militaristic mind, who is supposedly 10 feet tall. Minka tends to be fairly organized and high risk since they have to deal primarily with out right threats from Chi and the wilds. Missions involve scouting, stealth, assassination, and in dire circumstance, reporting back major threats to Major Guilds or Millennium Sphinx. Of all the guilds, their jobs are the least diverse, but some of the most important. While they're certainly not prudes outside of a mission/job/quest/etc, they tend to be very strict on the job, as failure fairly leads to death. The legend of how the guild was formed matches the actual history, what was originally a military bastion slowly became a guild over time. Minka is one of, if not the oldest, guild.



Klanen is the rowdy group, they take on any job they think looks fun and because of this they tend to get a large variety of jobs. Klanen is a bit disorganized, a sharp contrast to the business like Gilde, and they are known for causing a decent amount of property damage while they work. Individual freedom is extremely important to Klanen; if you fix the damages you cause and no one gets hurt then there's no problem, or at least Klanen says.

They have two leaders, Avesti and Rasha. Both of them do a good job covering the guild for it's antics and are rumored to be easygoing.

Their most powerful member is Zeisnia an evocation sorcerer.

Legend says Cherry Home is the oldest guild, and history somewhat confirms it. Their guild leader, the "nature spirit" Snow, has been show to be older than most records of any of the guilds (if you'll recall, Gilde was 187 years old). Cherry Home is a quiet guild that takes on the most "helping the little guy" jobs, unfortunately this makes them pretty unimpressive to other guilds and people and they have received the nickname "Trashy Home." Cherry Home has never had a member promoted to a major guild. From Cherry Home's perspective, they view themselves as a family more than a guild.

"Millennium Sphinx's mop" is what most will say when they think of Innocent. Innocent takes jobs that Millennium Sphinx doesn't care about. Their guild leader is S'nul, the brother of T'nul from Millennium Sphinx. Rumors about him say that he's extremely jealous of his brother and has become bitter because of their relative positions. Innocent has lately been stressing "self improvement" as their goal, they want to become a guild as powerful as Millennium Sphinx. Innocents most powerful member is the gnome Qitiore, Master of Many Shadows. Their guild was formed by the city council of Trymm as a response to complaints that the Sphinx did nothing to help the common folk.

Sadly, Ioriston doesn't know much about Porter Chill, he knows the legend that it was formed when a mighty serpent "vomited" out the mighty navy of Porter Chill, which then formed the guild hall. Their guild leader is Miandra. Porter Chill, despite have a decent number of members, is spread thin as they have to watch the seas around the entire nation. Missions are LONG for Porter Chill and one must be ready to spend a long time away from friends and family. They frequently, like Minka, come into conflict with "wilds pirates" and Chi.


(rest coming soon(tm))

[Autopsibiofeeder]

Jot (Girelda)

"Thank you very much....I just wanted to rest for a bit." She accepts the key and heads for the stairs and tries to find her room. There, she changes her clothes first: the pretty tight pants and fancy shirt go. In return, she dons a rugged pair of black trousers and a simple grey shirt, under her chain shirt, and some heavier boots. Then, the biggest change comes. Her gender changes, and she is now Waldrick, the rugged warrior-for-hire. Black hair with grey streaks, and much stronger than Girelda, albeit less nimble. Scars here and there are a testimony of his experience in combat. A sizeable greatsword on his back, he does not look as socially adept as Girelda. Waldrick is a serious man.

All-in-all the transformation takes an hour, during which Jot spends some time meditating and some time making a few practice swings with the greatsword. When he is done, Waldrick walks audibly and steadily down the stairs. When he enters the common room, he heads outside without paying attention to those inside.


+2 dexterity becomes +2 strength
Lose weapon finesse, gain weapon focus greatsword and power attack
Improved fort save, hp and base attack bonus.

[Caligstro Smith]

"Ah, illusion! The magic of the clever! Well, thank you again for indulging my curiosity, and I'm sorry if I was overinquisitive. Only there's so much new to me here, and I hope to know all I can before making a decision on the morrow.

But now I think it's time I met with the rest of your family and avail myself of that tea! I'll see you on my way out. And by the way, would you like me to bring you a cup? Or did you recently lunch?"

Torma waits for and acknowledged Harnor's reply appropriately and then makes his way into the little tea shop.

[Oko and Qailee]

Unfortunately, Minka was on the complete opposite side of town. Arrow and Fife both head in that direction (you guys can be within sight of each other or not, up to you). As you walk past the center of Pamelon you see a massive fortress like building surrounded by a massive crowd, the black and white flag of Gilde stands atop of the fortress. The two of you continue on.

Heading Southwest (all 3 of you, including Serephina, I just semi-randomly chose a guild), the surroundings become less crowded, but not nearly as uncrowded as the area where Cherry Home was. You notice that there seems to be less homes in this area and more craftsmen buildings and even a blacksmith or two. As the three of you continue you arrive at the very edge of the city, all the way to the wall of the city. There a large stone tower stands erect. Upon it is the guild symbol of Minka (see below spoiler). Upon the tower is the banner that reads "The guard of Pamelon is humbled to host those that protect us from our enemies."

The three of you all see each other. At the front of the tower stand several gentlemen all in a matching uniform that consists of leather armor, a dark green cloak, and a sword that appears to have a silver hilt, all of them have the symbol of Minka. There are other passerby's conversing with the gentlemen. A large table is also present, upon it are 4 large barrels and many mugs, every now and then one of the people conversing goes and pours what is clearly ale into a mug and takes it back to the group.

(Free Ale!)

(Coming soon to a DM post near you)


As Girelda moves upstairs you find that each floor is a long thin hallway with many doors, obviously as space saving as possible. You open your room and find a disappointing sight. Your room is a pitiful 5x10 room, the door can barely open because of the small bed in the room. Among st other things there is a chamber pot and a single candle. Luckily your room has a window... or rather a square hole in the wall. You find changing a major inconvenience with how little space you have.

------

Chistara arrives at the inn, a massive stone block essentially with many square holes in it. Inside is a plain mini-tavern. The innkeep was a portly woman who looked fairly bored currently, she sat at a counter that had a doorway right behind it. Her gray hair was tied in a bun, her wrinkled face showed her age, and her earring's , made obviously of fake gold, and dress, a dull red, told of her lack of wealth. The inside of the inn could easily be described as dull but clean, wooden floors, gray unpainted stone walls, a few plain wooden tables and a tiny, currently unmanned and unstocked bar. There are only 3 people besides the woman within the room and they're all sitting at one of the tables. A staircase is located in the far corner of the room.

"Can I help you deary?" The innkeep asks. As she speaks you hear the sound of heavy footsteps. A black haired man with a scarred face in heavy boots, chain shirt and black trousers has arrived in the room and walked out of the door.


"You're fine dude. Here let me walk you in." Harnor holds the door open for Torma.
---assuming you continue---

Inside is a dainty tea shop. The room smells floral and on the ceiling hang many lanterns.
Look sort of like this but with the Cherry Home Cherries symbol on it
http://wanderingju.files.wordpress.com/2012/08/p1100182.jpg


The outmost border of the room is step up from the center of the room, where there are 8 low tables. There are no chairs, but mats instead. At the far end of the room there is a doorway that most likely leads to the kitchen. Only 3 of the tables are occupied. At the first table is a dark skinned man with a vertical scar across his face. He has bronze hair and is wearing a mithril shirt on which the Cherry Home symbol is painted. His table is occupied with several people, none of which have the Cherry Home symbol. They are asking the man details about the guilds such as how big is it, what features it has, etc.

At the second table is a woman who seems to be made entirely out intertwined trees. Saplings and branches protrude from various sections of her body and end in leaves, her hair itself seems to also be made of leaves. There seems to be a layer of snow upon her hair/shoulders/branches. Her table is the most crowded, with no room left to sit around it.

The third table, which has plenty of remaining space. Only has 2 people currently at it. A thin diaphanous young lady with light brown hair that partially covers her face and aquamarine eyes. Perhaps what distinguishes her more than this is the fact that she has two small angel wings coming from her back. She is dressed in sky blue robes that have the Cherry Home symbol. Another woman at the table has short golden hair with silver eyes. She wears full plate with the Cherry Home symbol, strapped to her back are two extremely large swords.

At the third table 4 spots have clearly been sat at, there are empty cups of tea and empty plates. A man in a red kimono robe picks up the cups and plates and carries them to the back.

It is to the third table that Harnor leads Torma.
"Hey guys, this is the inquisitive dwarf Torma. Torma, this is Trinida and Qailee."
Qailee smiles and gives a small wave
"Hello."

Trinida looks at Harnor before teasing him.
"What are you doing out there? Paying everyone to enter? We usually have 4-5 people in here at a time, not over two tables full. At any rate, well met Torma, have a seat, would you like some tea?"

[Caligstro Smith]

As Torma enters the building he pushes his hat back and off his head, letting it hang against his back. The top of his head is bald and shiny, but he still has fairly short, yet thick gray hair on the sides and back of his head.

"Ah, an Aasimar, and so lovely too! It has been many years since I've seen one of your fellows. It is a pleasure to make both your acquaintances," he says in his deep, rough voice, giving a small quarter-bow to each before settling himself on one of the mats and giving each his customary wide grin.

"One of the many reasons I love tea houses -- they are better sized for one of my stature! Ha ha! Harnor, will you be joining us for a cup? I've recently eaten a late lunch myself, but I always can spare time and appreciation for a good cup of tea." Torma asked, gesturing to a mat beside him.

[RedSand]

Maddox stopped moving for a moment, as Paimon had a small fit in his head. He had been chosen to accompany Maddox today, and he had a made a fine(for him, anyway) pact, and while the spirit found Maddox's undead body lacking in several areas, he did not wish to banish another piece of himself back to the void.

"I am already bound this day, your honour, in order to better the majority of my talents, and well I am able to expel such beings, doing so is an...unwise business venture. However, if you require proof"-Maddox puts his hands to the pouch on his belt, and pulls out a long roll of parchment and some ink-I can draw the circles for several other vestiges and call on a manifestation of them-though doing so without finalizing a pact is also unwise."

With that, Maddox kneels to the floor, feet tapping, and begins drawing a circle to summon Focalor.

[JanusJones]

The small hooded man shuffles up to the table, eyeing the cloaked guards. He blanches at the scent of the ale.

"Erm ... hallo."

[Valery]

The small hooded man shuffles up to the table, eyeing the cloaked guards. He blanches at the scent of the ale.

"Erm ... hallo."

"Fancy seeing you again," Fife said, taking one of the mugs off of the table. "I seem to be running into you quite a bit. I'm not following, I swear, your a very muscular individual. I wouldn't follow you, too much to provoke in you I think..."

Fife glances at his mug, and sniffs it hoping to gauge its potential deadliness. He sighs and turns back to Arrow saying, "It's not that I'm worried about dying...but it's that I must die a specific way. Everyone else died in...crazy...humiliating...horrible...there wasn't a way that anyone didn't die." Fife attends to his mug once more and begins to shake it, in hopes that he might discover a hidden deadly object within the brew, but eventually this ends up sending all the liquid to the ground and the mug is quickly emptied.

Fife gently places the mug back on the table, ruffles his hood to hide his shame from the Minka representatives, and quietly screams to Arrow, "THAT ONE IS CLEAN!!!! IF I HAD TO GUESS, I'D SAY YOUR'S IS PROBABLY CLEAN TOO!!!! THIS IS REALLY VERY EMBARRASSING!!!! I DON'T KNOW WHY I KEEP TALKING LIKE THIS!!!! I WANT TO MAKE A GOOD IMPRESSION, BUT......" Fife falls silent. His rant has abruptly come to an end for reason that even he is not sure of.

He spies the Minka representatives from behind his tinted glasses and finally acknowledges them properly by introducing himself. "Hello," he says, trying desperately to regain his composure, "my name his Fife McDougal. And despite the spectacle I just put on, I can personally guarantee that I'm worth interviewing!"

[Oko and Qailee]

Qailee blushes a bit at the complement.
"Thank you. It's nice to meet you to."
Trinida signals the man in red, who comes by and sets down a cup of tea for Torma.
High quality green tea with a hint of cherry.

"I don't think so, I sho-
Trinida interrupts him
"Oh, come on Harnor, you've been standing outside all day."
"but-"
Qailee speaks up, louder than her usual quiet volume, though her voice is still soft; a small pout can be seen on her face.
"You promised you'd spend time with us..."
With that Harnor sits down and signals for his own cup of tea.
"You win, Torma is right, you can always spare some time for good cup of tea."
"So, Torma, tell us a bit about yourself, you seem like the friendly fellow."


As Maddox begins drawing the man observes him closely. "You certainly seem to know what you are doing. Do tell, where did you learn binding? Are you still on good terms with the Home of Death? Vestiges are seen as an abomination by the Home, as they are outside of the Path of Life into Death. If this works I'll be glad to respond to an inquiries you have towards what our guild can offer you."

One of the guards, an elf with long straight snow white hair but eyes as dark as night matches Arrows gaze.
He smells like wilderness is the simple way to put it.
He looks at Arrow "Oello, name?"

As Fife begins shouting he now gained the attention of the entire crowd a dwarf with a short brown beard and hazel eyes approaches Fife.
"You daft? Or mad? or nervous? Which of them are you? You best be none of the three son, because in the wild no one takes pity on you for your insanity. Now come, have a drink with old Firescythe."
He clinks his glass unto Fife's and downs the entire drink. The elf lifts up his glass to Arrow, as if to offer a clinking as well. "Drink? Tell your story perhaps?"

[sparky9042]

Ioriston heads in the direction of the Cherry Home building, which was to be his next move anyway regardless of his success or failure at Millennium Sphinx.

[Caligstro Smith]

Torma pauses a moment to savor the aroma of the tea when it arrives. His eyes close and he breathes deep before exhaling slowly and taking a sip. "Mmm... Excellent. I've never tried a cherry tea before. Do you use extract or syrup?"

Torma takes another sip before setting his cup down for a moment to address Trinida's question, "Well, I am a wandering bender and herbalist, and I just love tea and the outdoors. I'm originally from Lanure, but I've passed through Xil's Soul, Selam and its smallest southern island, a decent south-western section of the great forest, and Ponel. I would've come through Pamelon on my way to Selam, but there was something going on at the time, and the gates were temporarily closed. This was a decade or two back, and I can't recall now if it was sickness, a political disruption, or something else..? Anyway, I've come seeking guild employment as a change of pace and a bit more excitement after my years of relatively peaceful wandering."

[JanusJones]

One of the guards, an elf with long straight snow white hair but eyes as dark as night matches Arrows gaze.
He smells like wilderness is the simple way to put it.
He looks at Arrow "Oello, name?"
The elf lifts up his glass to Arrow, as if to offer a clinking as well. "Drink? Tell your story perhaps?"


The small hooded man edges away as the stranger begins screaming. By the time his fit is well into full swing, he's made his way to the other side of the table in earnest discomfort. He looks almost relieved when the guard addresses him.

"Arrow." He shakes his head at the proffered drink. "Thank'ee kindly, don' mean no rudeness, but I don't. My da' did, an' he's dead of it."

He looks off for a moment at the invitation to tell his story, then shrugs and, suddenly looking resolute, speaks.

"Spent mos' my life on the road with my da' since they kilt ma an' sis. He taught me to pull a bow and to hunt men like them that kilt our family." He meets the elf's eyes. "Heard you all might be of help - or me, to you."

[RedSand]

Maddox continued drawing as he spoke."I come from a town in the northeast. It was a fairly peaceful place, just about four miles out from a port city. Almost everything from our town produced something for the port; mules for manual labor, cows for beef, burials for their dead...you understand. Anyway, the town had been founded by a very powerful binder, and when she passed, most of her things ended up the property of the town. Now, unlike most other forms of magic, pact magic is fairly universal; you don't need to be clever or wise or forceful to use it, and it takes very little training to be able to do just a little of it.

So, binding became fairly common in my hometown. Artisans could bind Naberius if they needed to make something outside their craft, some of the guardsman could bind Savnok and summon fine armor, so on and so on. Now, the Home of Death was also located in our little town, by necessity, as the Divine One had beaten them to the actual port city by a decade or so and was better liked there. They never endorsed the practice, but denouncing them would have made themselves more enemies than they could afford, and if the Queen herself had any real problems with the practice, I don't think it came up during my death."

Maddox finished the circle and looked back up at Solli. "Anyway, my parents allowed me to become a binder because I would've made a lousy cleric(I wasn't very wise in my youth and was fairly frail) and because they hoped they could use me to smooth things over between the church and the town. I served the church for about a year and a half, accidentally got killed in a prank war between the Home and the Divine One, and spent about three weeks in a bleak afterlife that I'm fairly certain I didn't like. The Divine One offered to pay for my raising, but of course my family insisted I be given the Ritual of Crucumigration. I returned to the land of the living an undead, got a bit of training in how to properly fight in my new body, and hit the road without telling a soul. I haven't the faintest what my family have told the Home of Death community, or how the Home will react to me here, though I doubt they'll be fond of a Necropolitan parading around with the Sun and Moon."

"And now, to answer your very first question." Maddox pulled out his binding implements, laying out the stones, cutting his hand and dropping a bit of cold, stagnant blood into the chalice. He knelt at the circle, touched the seal, concentrated, and yelled out, "I call upon you, Focalor, Prince of Tears. Render unto me your presence, your breath and your storm, for I stand before your seal."

[Samah]

Chistara approaches the bar, smiling, "Well met, I'm here for claim my room and perhaps avail myself to a glass of ale, if you have some." Her smiles turns a bit rueful, "I'm afraid I don't have much of a head for wine. Gives me the very devil of a headache." The tall woman eases herself onto a barstool, "And, could I trouble you for a bit of information? I'm in need of a mercantile where I might find a warm blanket and a sturdy winter cloak? I have hopes for Cherry Home, you see." She withdraws her room ticket to show it to the innkeep.

[Valery]

The small hooded man edges away as the stranger begins screaming. By the time his fit is well into full swing, he's made his way to the other side of the table in earnest discomfort. He looks almost relieved when the guard addresses him.

"Arrow." He shakes his head at the proffered drink. "Thank'ee kindly, don' mean no rudeness, but I don't. My da' did, an' he's dead of it."

He looks off for a moment at the invitation to tell his story, then shrugs and, suddenly looking resolute, speaks.

"Spent mos' my life on the road with my da' since they kilt ma an' sis. He taught me to pull a bow and to hunt men like them that kilt our family." He meets the elf's eyes. "Heard you all might be of help - or me, to you."

Fife soon succumbs to the fact that he seems terribly awkward. Fife looks at Firescythe and in his most humble voices, says, "I'm always neverous. But, I'll throw that aside for now and drink with you for the sake of regaining my reputation and being mostly sane."

Fife downs the mug and slams it on the table. He blinks furiously for a moment and begins to cough, since it had been a long time since any sort of alcohol touched his lips. He hadn't had anyone to drink with in a while, and he didn't drink alone for fear of developing an unnatural favor of alcohol.

"So, I assume I can talk with you Mr. Firescythe," Fife said running his finger around the rim of his now empty mug. "I don't know too much about your organization, but I know that there is great glory in serving our great country in international defensive affairs."

[Oko and Qailee]

(work tonight, but not as late, heading to a bar with friends though after, so expect another late post next).

"We use extracts as we have an over abundance of cherries available. If you like the outdoors, you'd most likely be fond of our guild location. We're on a hill overlooking the small town of Manla, it's very quiet, the view is nice in any direction you look. There are cherry tree's and the mountains. Even in winter the snow looks charming as it remains relatively undisturbed, especially compared to cities like Pamelon."

Harnor sips his tea, then speaks before getting up and walking towards the door.
"One second, I'll be right back."
-----
Ioriston, one his way notices that as he gets closer to the location of Cherry Home the surroundings become less crowded and the buildings of poorer quality.
The hosting guild chooses the location where each guild resides during the festival, the other guilds usually request locations, but the hosting guild makes the final decision.

As he arrives at the location where Cherry Home is supposed to be he finds a small open plaza that look only marginally better than the previous surroundings. At one end of the plaza is dainty building with an oak sign that reads "Xilping tea store, honored to be hosting Cherry Home!" In front of the building is the easily recognizable Cherry Home guild symbol.

The door of the tea shop opens and a man walks out. He's athletically built and wearing all black. He has black hair, brown eyes and a bit of scruff on his face. He see Ioriston.
"Hello! Would you like to come in for some tea? Maybe hear a bit about Cherry Home?"



(you can both hear each others conversations)
The elf looks sincerely curious. "Howly help? We'ave mostly into the wilds and Chi, if 'ot. Some spying, raiding Chi and wilds camps, catch slavers. Xil is of freedom, and to every man they get it." He speaks somewhat oddly and stumbles on his words. He takes an empty mug and walks it to one of the three barrels, out of it he pours water into the mug and brinks it to Arrow, offering him the water and a clink.

"Yes son, you can talk with me. Though if you have any interest in us you better lose the nervousness. We travel, deep into the wilds, sometimes we stumble upon a filthy Chiite camp, other times slavers, or maybe just a Dire beast. Regardless of which it is, I assure you nervousness will get you killed and it isn't a good quality for us who are named the Silver Hilts. You must be brave, have a sense of adventure, and be willing to go some days without the warmth of a woman or a friendly face." The dwarf finishes his drink and pours himself another. "In return for you service, you get one of these swords built for you, a title, and the damned pride of knowing you're protecting your damn country of ingrates... oh and gold, there will be that too."



(Want me to add a town/city on the map for you? I am very fond of players contributing to world building as long as it doesn't clash with what I've already set into place.)

Upon finishing a single tear forms in the air and strikes the ground, a glowing ripple form and spreads outwards. The splash of the tear moves upwards forming the weeping eyes of Focalor, and then his entire body becomes present. There a handsome male, twisted by grief kneels. His wings magnificent even as they shudder with sadness. He looks at Maddox as though staring into his heart and asking "Why?"; he then vanishes quicker than he appeared.

"That was a treat to see! Focalor? Was it? I know binding but only simple aspects of it. I am already most pleased, though I'm sure those in the Home within our guild will not be, but to them who gives a rat bum."



"I'm afraid the barkeep isn't in yet, as we expected everyone to show later. Nearly all the mercantiles will be taking the day off, especially since most of them are indirectly owned by Jannis. Let me get you your key though sweetie, at the very least you can keep the blanket we provide you, thin though it is." She stoops underneath the counter and you hear the clinking of keys. She pulls one out that reads 766 on it.

[Autopsibiofeeder]

Jot (Waldrick)

Waldrick moves straight for the door and heads back to where Girelda had met the blue-skinned lady. Once he arrives, he will first get himself a well-deserved beer before he starts looking for the lady.

[Oko and Qailee]

Waldrick can easily both find the well deserved beer and the catch sight of the blue skinned lady, she wasn't difficult to spot in a crowd.

[Autopsibiofeeder]

Jot (Waldrick)

Waldrick marches straight to the blue-skinned lady. No point in wasting time. As soon as she is not in a conversation with someone else, no point in being rude, he adresses her. "Excuse me, lady Huevosa? I was sent by Girelda. I understood you were curious to meet me? I am Waldrick."

[Oko and Qailee]

"She told me she would come as a completely different person. Are you her somehow? or is she just a twit sending people to pretend to be her?"

[Autopsibiofeeder]

Jot (Waldrick)

Waldrick produces a grin. He is obviously not the laughing type. "Well, yes and no. She is a twit, if you ask me. But, she did not send someone else." He pulls his hand over his face, which transforms into that of Girelda. She produces a broad smile and a wink before becoming Waldrick again. "So," he sighs as if he hates to admit it, "Girelda and I are the same person. Just don't ask me to perform the trickery she likes to....I am not very good at that."

[Oko and Qailee]

Huevosa looks genuinely please. "It is without a doubt the most impressive thing I have seen today."

[Autopsibiofeeder]

Jot (Waldrick)

The warrior nods dryly. "I must say it can be inconvenient to share your body with others, but I must admit the others have their uses. A warrior has to recognize the tactical advantage that gives. Even though I think Rahir is an animal, Peter spends too much time praying, Girelda flirting and Sandra with her nose in her books." He finishes his beer. "So, lady Huevosa, Gilde sounds like a place where I could feel at home. If I'd like to apply, how would I go about that?"

[Valery]

[SPOILER=Fife, Arrow]
(you can both hear each others conversations)
The elf looks sincerely curious. "Howly help? We'ave mostly into the wilds and Chi, if 'ot. Some spying, raiding Chi and wilds camps, catch slavers. Xil is of freedom, and to every man they get it." He speaks somewhat oddly and stumbles on his words. He takes an empty mug and walks it to one of the three barrels, out of it he pours water into the mug and brinks it to Arrow, offering him the water and a clink.

"Yes son, you can talk with me. Though if you have any interest in us you better lose the nervousness. We travel, deep into the wilds, sometimes we stumble upon a filthy Chiite camp, other times slavers, or maybe just a Dire beast. Regardless of which it is, I assure you nervousness will get you killed and it isn't a good quality for us who are named the Silver Hilts. You must be brave, have a sense of adventure, and be willing to go some days without the warmth of a woman or a friendly face." The dwarf finishes his drink and pours himself another. "In return for you service, you get one of these swords built for you, a title, and the damned pride of knowing you're protecting your damn country of ingrates... oh and gold, there will be that too."

"I am plenty brave, but my over cautiousness is the thing that most people are witnessing. I've witnessed the absurd deaths of all of my friends and family at the hands of any ridiculous event one might think of. I'm interested to know all about the guild, and how to be interviewed for consideration into it. Though I may seem strange, and perhaps feeble, I can ensure that I'm an incredibly capable person."

[Caligstro Smith]

Torma nods at Harnor as he takes his leave, before turning back to Trinida and Qailee.

"It sounds a beautiful and inspiring place. Though very ...peaceful. As if it might be a better place for one of my age to settle down and retire, than for one seeking employment and a bit of excitement? ...Though I suppose most missions and contracts aren't like to be at the guild hall, and having a good and relaxing place like that to rest off the job would be very nice.

But what can you tell me of Cherry Home as a guild?"

[JanusJones]

(you can both hear each others conversations)
The elf looks sincerely curious. "Howly help? We'ave mostly into the wilds and Chi, if 'ot. Some spying, raiding Chi and wilds camps, catch slavers. Xil is of freedom, and to every man they get it." He speaks somewhat oddly and stumbles on his words. He takes an empty mug and walks it to one of the three barrels, out of it he pours water into the mug and brinks it to Arrow, offering him the water and a clink.

There is a sudden flash of steel in Arrow's hooded eyes, and he meets the elf's gaze. He accepts the cup and drinks it.

"Slavers be my meat. 'Twas them kilt me ma' n' sis'. My da' namt me Arrow after, as I'm meant t' be a bolt shot by him into the heart of them who kill and catch the free n' innocent."

He hefts his bow. "I kin' track a man through storm n' sleet, n' shoot him dead at a hunnert paces in the dark o' night. I kin' run down a deer on foot n' strike it dead."

He looks the elf square. "I kin' do that meself. What kin' Minka do fer me?"

[RedSand]

Maddox stood back up, scooping up the parchment circle and crumpling it in his hands. "I am a Necropolitan with little love for the Queen. The Home will dislike my presence regardless of occupation, and that might be your headache, I'll remind you.

In any case, as a demonstration of abilities as a martial adept..." Maddox drew his short sword and weaved it around intently before jutting it forward. An illusory double appeared beside him, hovering without a noise. With a bit of extra gravitas demanded by Paimon, Maddox twirled the crumpled paper ball in his hand, flicked it into the air, and with a swift movement brought both his sword and the shadow through the parchment, cutting it to ribbons. Maddox gave himself another pointless sigh and withdrew his sword. "There. Now then. I am here in your court for largely one reason-as is evident, I have died before. I did not enjoy the afterlife provided by the Queen, which is problematic, because I swore an oath to her at 8 and have already spent several weeks in her realm. For that reason, I have sought out the patronage and favor of Solemnis and Lunaris. I am little use to a church, but can do much for their guild. I don't know what it takes to truly convert after all the connections I have given the Queen, including my current condition, but I'll take what I can get."

He let his words sink in for a bit before continuing. "Other than that, I need little. I don't eat or sleep, but I do need money to afford a living space to keep myself clean and safe, and to purchase adventuring supplies. I am versatile enough to perform most jobs, but I would need at least a bit of advance notice to bind the proper vestiges. A bit of status to avoid being burnt by followers of either the Divine One or the Home would also be useful. Honestly, though, I mostly just need the support of your gods."

[evyldead]

Seraphina Walks up and asks them the same question she did last time Hi there! What would my abilities as a rogue be in this fine guild? Just getting the basics then I'll go and see the other guilds and make my ways to the best one that seems to fit. Now how would I be of use to Minka? Innocent wasn't really much help nor interesting. Let's hope you guys are!

[sparky9042]

Ioriston smiles. The Cherry Home representative has already been much more polite than anyone from Millennium Sphinx, much less pious and disturbingly self-righteous than Silver Flag, and they offered tea, which hopefully would not be slightly bitter brown water in contrast to the slightly sour purple water that Gilde was serving. Perhaps there might be some merit to joining the guild that was looked down upon by the world. What that would be, Ioriston would have to find out.

"Tea sounds wonderful. Much better than that imitation wine Gilde is serving out there. And yes, I would love to come in and learn more about Cherry Home. My name is Ioriston, and I am a psion specializing in clairsentience. And yourself?"

[Oko and Qailee]

"Please, refer to me as just Huevosa, I'm a hunter not a petty noble. I have your ticket... you've already applied. You'll find out tonight if you've been accepted, though it wont be any surprise for you, you are talented."


Harnor laughs at Ioristons comment about the wine.
"Ooooh boy, I don't think 'wine' is the proper word to describe that, erm 'beverage'. Gilde does the minimum possible to fulfill requirements so that they save money. Pleasure to meet you Ioriston, what a cool name, my name is Harnor, apprentice mage."
He opens the door for Ioriston and leads him in.
Inside is a dainty tea shop. The room smells floral and on the ceiling hang many lanterns.
Look sort of like this but with the Cherry Home Cherries symbol on it
http://wanderingju.files.wordpress.com/2012/08/p1100182.jpg


The outmost border of the room is step up from the center of the room, where there are 8 low tables. There are no chairs, but mats instead. At the far end of the room there is a doorway that most likely leads to the kitchen. Only 3 of the tables are occupied. At the first table is a dark skinned man with a vertical scar across his face. He has bronze hair and is wearing a mithril shirt on which the Cherry Home symbol is painted. His table is occupied with several people, none of which have the Cherry Home symbol. They are asking the man details about the guilds such as how big is it, what features it has, etc.

At the second table is a woman who seems to be made entirely out intertwined trees. Saplings and branches protrude from various sections of her body and end in leaves, her hair itself seems to also be made of leaves. There seems to be a layer of snow upon her hair/shoulders/branches. Her table is the most crowded, with no room left to sit around it.

The third table, which has plenty of remaining space. Only has 3 people currently at it. A thin diaphanous young lady with light brown hair that partially covers her face and aquamarine eyes. Perhaps what distinguishes her more than this is the fact that she has two small angel wings coming from her back. She is dressed in sky blue robes that have the Cherry Home symbol. Another woman at the table has short golden hair with silver eyes. She wears full plate with the Cherry Home symbol, strapped to her back are two extremely large swords. The third is Torma, the dwarf.

Harnor leads Ioriston to the table that Torma is seated at as Trinida is answering Torma's question.
"Well, a lot. Do you care about the guild hall faculties? our organization? our types of jobs? It IS very peaceful. Most of our jobs are lower key, but if you're looking for excitement you can always tag a long with Harnor or I, we tend to do higher profile more dangerous jobs. I don't take anything as exciting as Harnor though, somehow he's been taking other guilds jobs and finishing them before other members can even arrive. The Sphinx is very ups-"

"Sorry to interrupt, but this is Ioriston, a master of clairsentience. Ioriston, this is Trinida, Qailee, and another visitor, Torma."
The woman with two swords strapped to her back greet Ioriston first.
"A pleasure Sir Ioriston."
The younger woman shyly says "Hello."

----
Once Ioriston sits a man in a red Kimono robe sets down a cup of tea in front of him, it has a light orange color to it.
High quality green tea with a hint of cherry.



The elf seemed somewhat upset by your question.
"Minka give weapons, help track, find, and kill. Strong allies, friends, and resources. Really, is not what Minka can do for you, but what Minka ask you to do for your country thats important to Minka. Noble sacrifice to the cause of peace and safety, this is Minka, the Silver Blades in an unforgivin world. Nearly everyone ask what Minka can do for you."

"If you like son you can try to prove it, or maybe I'll just take your word for it boy. Here's the million gold piece question, are you ready to die son?"

The individual Serephina approaches turns around, a beautiful woman with long straight brown hair and jade green eyes. She smiles as she speaks. Besides just the silver hilted sword she also carries a bow.
"Hello miss, uhm- I didn't quite catch your name. I am Ashelyn. Well, stealth is one of our biggest qualities we look for. We travel past the border and once there, the less that sees you, the better. We scout and fight that which threatens Xil from the outside, be it slavers, bandits, magical beasts, or Chiites. We silently attack camps and certainly you'd be of use as an assassin or spy. We have the least varied jobs, but I'd say the most important ones."


Bah, the little Home of Death ****s have always been a headache." He watches Maddox's swordplay and nods approvingly. "I was unaware I was getting a show today! I wish half the applicants could be as exciting as you. Morons walk in here an demonstrate 'Oh look, I can pull a sword out of a sheath."

He then begins again once Maddox mentions his necessities.
"Very well. This is what we offer you at Silver Flag. One, as many damned clerics to help you as you could possibly want. Two, a place to live with all the damned free food and drink you want and none of that Gilde crap of serving sewage as wine. Three, jobs that will make you more than a decent living. Four, some of the best resources of any guild, we have 4 artificers within our ranks. What we ask you, is that you try to be fair and unbiased when it comes to settling issues between faiths. You don't have to work with any faith that you don't want to, you choose your jobs after all."

[Caligstro Smith]

"Another potential companion! Hello Ioriston!" Torma grins widely at him and turns back to Tristara, "I'd like to know about all of them, if you wouldn't mind. Though of the three I'm most interested in the sorts of missions you and Harnor take. A bit of excitement and change in my life is one of the reasons I'm looking to join a guild, after all."

[Valery]

"If you like son you can try to prove it, or maybe I'll just take your word for it boy. Here's the million gold piece question, are you ready to die son?"


"Yes!!! I am perfectly prepared to die, but in a very specific way. You see, I must be personally smote by my god, the Queen of Death. The reason I have come to Minka is that, in order to be personally smote by my Queen, I must prove myself to her! She must recognize me as being worthy of her direct presence on this plane and murder me where I stand. Minka should give me the skills and resources to ensure that I am slain by my Queen, as you're efforts are grand and your resolve to complete missions unmatched! I realize how ridiculous this may sound, but I assure you that I am a capable warrior and I will keep my companions alive.

[Autopsibiofeeder]

Jot (Waldrick)

Waldrick nods. "All right, that is good to hear, Huevosa. I won't keep you from your business....I assume nights like these are busy for you. If you don't need me, I will see if there is some more beer where this came from." He lifts his glass with something that's supposed to be a smile. If Huevosa does not need his presence anymore, he will find somewhere to get a new drink.

[evyldead]

The individual Serephina approaches turns around, a beautiful woman with long straight brown hair and jade green eyes. She smiles as she speaks. Besides just the silver hilted sword she also carries a bow.
"Hello miss, uhm- I didn't quite catch your name. I am Ashelyn. Well, stealth is one of our biggest qualities we look for. We travel past the border and once there, the less that sees you, the better. We scout and fight that which threatens Xil from the outside, be it slavers, bandits, magical beasts, or Chiites. We silently attack camps and certainly you'd be of use as an assassin or spy. We have the least varied jobs, but I'd say the most important ones."

"My name is Seraphina Ningel of the Dragonblade Ninja clan. So I'm not your typical rogue, more of a Ninja. A very useful trick that I am very good at is stealth, and Sometimes it take magic to see me, but only in dire need that happens. But I would like to keep this guild in mind at the top of my list! Is there any other importance I should need to know?

[JanusJones]

The elf seemed somewhat upset by your question.
"Minka give weapons, help track, find, and kill. Strong allies, friends, and resources. Really, is not what Minka can do for you, but what Minka ask you to do for your country thats important to Minka. Noble sacrifice to the cause of peace and safety, this is Minka, the Silver Blades in an unforgivin world. Nearly everyone ask what Minka can do for you."

Arrow nods. Suddenly, he's smaller - again an awkward little man in a rough, homespun hood. "You'll haveta fergive me. Not seen enuff o' Minka out my parts. Had to go it alone. Sacrifice ... that I've done plenty." He shakes his head.

"If you hunt them what catches and kills freemen, you've already helped me n' mine. What's a man to do to show he's of a mind and manner to help you?"

[sparky9042]

"My understanding of Gilde is that they are quite large and bureaucratic. It doesn't seem quite right for me. I would likely get bored, and find myself unable to stand out easily. I'm looking for a guild in which I can make a difference."

Ioriston takes a seat and introduces himself to the group at the table. "Hello Trinida, Qailee, and Torma. Did I just overhear something about irritating Millennium Sphinx?"

[Samah]

"I'm afraid the barkeep isn't in yet, as we expected everyone to show later. Nearly all the mercantiles will be taking the day off, especially since most of them are indirectly owned by Jannis. Let me get you your key though sweetie, at the very least you can keep the blanket we provide you, thin though it is." She stoops underneath the counter and you hear the clinking of keys. She pulls one out that reads 766 on it.
[/QUOTE]

"Tch! No, no, I'll not take your furnishings, though I thank you for the kindess. I'll make do if I don't find anything before I leave." She takes her key and smiles, "Thanks ever so much. Would it be possible to take my evening meal here tonight? When I return from visiting Klanen?"

[Oko and Qailee]

"Gilde, or Jannis I guess I should say, is about the bottom line. He'll make sure they do the cheapest and minimum to meet requirements."

"Yes, yes you did. Before lately simply our very existence seemed to upset the Sphinx, their members are the ones who began the entire "Trashy" Home nickname. More recently, Harnor has been taking their "higher profile" jobs (because they say all their jobs are that) away from them."
"It reaaaaally hasn't been that much, honestly I was afraid they'd attack us at this festival... they haven't yet.

The red Kimono'd man comes by again, and sets down a plate with Cherry Pie in front of Torma, Ioriston, and Harnor.

"So here's the catch of this guild... you have to like cherries and tea... seriously. A nice coffee is a rarity in Manla unless you're willing to pay your lifes earnings for it."
"It's not that bad..."
Trinida angrily frowns at Harnor
"You're being a baby, we have a lot more than cherries and tea, you can't even lift off that you dolt. Anyway, continuing with your interests Torma. Our guild building is actually the largest of all the guilds, despite the fact that we have the least members. A lot of this extra space goes into keeping rooms spacious for guild members, but our library is also pretty large, as is Twirk's lab. Our jobs stay pretty close to home, but we have gone a ways away before."
"I actually joined Minka on a trip into the wilds... they though I'd be useful for divination as a spellcaster, surprise... it's not my forte... went well though, we just took a few more arrows into us than we would have liked."
"Right, well, like I said, most of our jobs have been low key, helping a farmer protect his flock from dire wolves, fixing property damage after a storm, etc. But if you want a higher profile job I'm sure Harnor can find anything for you."
"Oh, you're still going about the 'me taking Sphinx' jobs? I have no clue what you're talking about."
"You'll know what I'm talking about when I kick your butt so hard Qailee will be using every single cure spell she has trying to remove my foot."
Qailee giggles at the comment.


"Boy, in the wilds, your god doesn't hear you. In the wilds, if you're caught by slavers, you'll die, not by your god, but by years of labor and torture in Chi. Screams won't even reach your god. She will not look down on you and ease your pain or smite you as you want."

Ashelyn looks a bit confused at Serephina
"Sorry, it's just you asked about the usefulness of a rogue in our guild, I assumed you were one. Yes, actually, you understand that Minka has the highest mortality rate of any guild?"

The elf places his hand out to Arrow.
"Ticket, I think you good. Heart in right place and no family."


She does not need your presence any further, there are mugs of beer being carried around by Gilde servers, but they're going away pretty fast. All of the food Gilde had has vanished, certainly it was not enough for the crowd.

"Oh yes dear! We have some stew now if you'd like it, a cute little dwarf was quite fond of it."
-----if yes-----
The woman waddles towards the back door, you hear some clinking and she returns with a bowl of beef stew.

[RedSand]

"Well, that all works perfectly well for me. Here, my ticket." He sheathes his sword and hands Solli the ticket marked "Silver Flag".

"I'll probably spend a bit more time among the festival. Barring exceptional circumstance, I doubt I'll be joining a different guild, though it'd probably be for the best if I got my name out a bit more. Now, if you'll excuse me, I shall see you later."

[Oko and Qailee]

"The pleasure was mine! I wish you best of luck on your endeavors."

[Caligstro Smith]

"Well I certainly love tea, and while I have no great love of cherries, neither do I find them distasteful, and they would make for a nice variety beyond my usual fare, which is little but trail rations most days, or the occasional rabbit or squirrel over a campfire.

And it sounds like even if the usual jobs are simple, at least they're doing good, and if I am lacking for excitement it may still be there to be found.

The only thing I'd yet like to ask is about the other guildmembers. Who leads Cherry Home, and what can you tell me of the average member? And who are the others representing the guild today?" Torma asks, gesturing first over to the nymph or dryad covered in snow, and at the serious-looking, scar-faced man at the other table.

[Samah]

"Oh yes dear! We have some stew now if you'd like it, a cute little dwarf was quite fond of it."
-----if yes-----
The woman waddles towards the back door, you hear some clinking and she returns with a bowl of beef stew.


"That sounds delicious! I'll certainly take some tonight if you've any left! As it happens, I'm a bit full on pie at the moment; Cherry Home is so hospitable. You've been a help and such a dear! Until later!"

Chistara slides off of her stool and strides away with a last, polite, wave before consulting her map and heading to Guild Klanen. As much as she enjoyed Cherry Home and truely hoped to join them her conscience wouldn't let her put all her chicks in one basket and she figured that she ought to check out at least one other Guild. She believed in the Divine and the Queen of the Dead and spoke of both with reverence and respect but she wasn't devout enough to feel comfortable with Silver Flag. Guilde was far too impersonal. She was a person, thank you very much, and wished to be treated as such, not some finely oiled part of a larger moneymaking machine. Innocent held no interest. Minka had some promise but seemed overly fraught with danger; much fortune to the brave and foolhardy souls who filled its ranks. There was NO WAY she'd willing go to Porter Chill and the ocean. Millenium Sphinx was too high profile. Nope. Klanen was the only Guild left to pursue and pursue it she would.

[Autopsibiofeeder]

Jot (Waldrick)

Waldrick decides to hang around and score a drink and a bite despite the odds being against that. Perhaps there's a table of men playing dice or cards he could join...maybe the guild is planning on doing some entertainment at some point. He'll see. He understood he'd hear more later if he'd stick around. No point in going elsewhere.

[JanusJones]

The elf places his hand out to Arrow.
"Ticket, I think you good. Heart in right place and no family."

Arrow shuffles through his pouch and produces the ticket. When its handed over, he takes a breath, and makes bold to ask: "Erm, so what next? Not really sure how all this is s'posed to work."

[Oko and Qailee]

(not 100% finished with details, but close enough for replies)
"The woman is Snow, our leader. The man is good old Reynauld, a kinder heart there probably is none. Honestly, there are very few members of Cherry Home, we've always been kind of small, only adding one to two members a year."

"Tonight, returned to you at your room. Tomorrow morning, you return here and we give you your symbol and blade."

Klanen was easy enough to find, if anything she could have probably found it without the map as long as she roamed about a bit. This is because, as she approached the direction klanen, she could hear loud music, laughing, and... explosions as fireballs were being shot into the air. As she got close she could hear singing growing louder and finally she entered a crowded plaza. It seemed like every building in that plaza was a tavern and a banner was strung across the plaza that read.

"Every tavern ever is happy to party hard with Klanen!"

The banner was clearly singed.

Several barrels of ale had been carried outside, and the singing could be heard more clearly.
"Face down in the gutter wont admit defeat
though his clothes are soiled and black
theres a great big man with a childs mind
DON'T YOU TAKE HIS BOOZE AWAY!"

Immediately a man with crimson red hair intentionally bumps into Chistara holding two mugs of ale.
"Hey heres a drink or two..."
And another with sky blue hair, also holding two ales, then bumps her into the opposite direction.
"One for me, and two for you."
Chistara suddenly finds herself holding two ales, one from each guy.

"Are you here for the klanen? Drinks first, then plannin"

On their Red and Blu jackets is the symbol of Klanen (coming soon)

[Samah]

Chistara looks at the ales in her hands then shrugs before downing one right after the other. She grins and wipes the foam away before pressing the empty tankards back into their hands. "Well you're as rowdy a bunch of lads and lasses as I have ever hoped to see!! I bet the pair of you are naught but mischief and sauce," Eyes twinkling merrily she grins widely, caught up in the general gaity of the plaza. "I don't suppose you two fine laddybucks would be so generous as to introduce yourselves, hmm?"

[sparky9042]

"The kind of beverage I am drinking or food I am eating isn't very likely to matter to me, what really matters is its quality." Ioriston listens in on the conversation, then adds, "Interesting. You take on jobs that have quantifiable effects in the lives of ordinary people. I could guess that those people have a much better opinion of you than the general public or Millennium Sphinx does. I am curious, though...is it by choice, entirely, that you are limited to such "small-time" jobs, and that you accept few members?"

[Oko and Qailee]

"Well, apparently you already knew them! I'm sauce."
"Mischief at your service!"
You find yourself with another ale in your hand. Yet both of the two talking to you have new drinks as well. The they each put an arm around you and walk you into the crowd of singers and dancers. Another halfling woman joins you, also with the guild symbol, her blonde curly hair was as wild as it was long and reached down almost to the ground.
"You've only got our guest one drink!"
They reply in unison!
"We've got her two!"
"We've got her two!"

"Still two too few! Whats the name babe? Sing with us!"
"So kiss me, I'm ****faced
I'm soaked, I'm soiled and brown
in the trousers, she kissed me
And I only bought her one round"
(Perform check to join)


"Not really sure how it started actually, we've just always been a smaller guild and it's been a bit of a perpetual cycle. We attract people who prefer smaller jobs so we don't build much reputation outside of Manla and we mostly get small jobs done. While yes, we're popular in Manla, our scope is relatively small. No one cares to hear a story about a farmer whose been saved a town away, but everyone in the kingdom hears stories of Torwin. So of course, people who want to be a legend like Torwin try to join the Sphinx. If there was a consistent quality of people in the Sphinx besides powerful, it would be egotistical.

"Other guilds attract different members, Gilde hires nearly everyone who applies. religious people flock to the Flag. Porter Chill tends to attract mostly people near them, but luckily for them there are many ports near them. Klanen attracts everyone who likes 6 ales a day."

[sparky9042]

In the back of Ioriston's mind, he makes a quick mental note, reaching out to his personal secretary/pet rock/psicrystal. You heard that, right?
Yep!
Note this: Solid no on Klanen. 6 ales a day not good for higher mental functions.
Got it!


"Have they...met Torwin? He's something of an impatient, arrogant prick. I had interest in joining the Sphinx at one point. Unfortunately...that interest has waned..."

Ioriston gazes into his tea, frowning somewhat.

[Oko and Qailee]

"We've talked a lot about us, tells us a little bit about yourself."

[Caligstro Smith]

"Well as for me, I've told you of my abilities and the places I've traveled. For the rest, I enjoy simple pleasures -- quality tea, a good conversation or exciting tale, a vigorous spar, quiet time outdoors, and a close game of cyvasse or go."

[Oko and Qailee]

A flash of excitement lights Qailee's eyes as she challenges Torma.
"I'll beat you in Go anytime." Her voice comes out confident, very different from her usual demeanor.

Harnor looks at Torma
"Watch out, she's really good..."

[JanusJones]

"Tonight, returned to you at your room. Tomorrow morning, you return here and we give you your symbol and blade."

Arrow nods, then pauses. "I ... er, I don' stay indoors. Don' feel right. Set up over yonder. Holler when y' come; I kin' be jumpy a'times." His rough voice is apologetic.

[Oko and Qailee]

The elf looks mildly annoyed at Arrow. He hands him back his ticket.
"We take you, I just return ticket now. Meet us back here tomorrow if you choose us over other guilds that return ticket."

[JanusJones]

Arrow awkwardly takes the paper. "Oh ... erm, yeh. Arright then." Arrow gives a deeper nod, pulls up his hood, and shuffles off with his quiet, sideways lope.

[Caligstro Smith]

"The truest enjoyment in go is in the challenge of other great minds," he replied to Harnor before turning back to Qailee, "I certainly look forward to meeting you at the board! Perhaps this evening, after I've made my other rounds of the guilds?"

*Torma pauses for her reply; below assumes consent*

"And speaking of the other guilds, I fear I must take my leave now if I am to still visit the rest before the day is over. Thank you again for this excellent tea! I will return after dinner for our game," Torma said with a small bow before rising to his feet and taking up his staff and pack.

*Assuming they say goodbye or other such, Torma pauses as they offer these and acknowledges them*

"Until then!" he said with yet another of his wide grins.

Torma made his way out of the shop before heading off towards Klanen.

The innkeeper seemed to think this next stop was one best avoided, but I will see Klanen myself.

[Valery]

"Boy, in the wilds, your god doesn't hear you. In the wilds, if you're caught by slavers, you'll die, not by your god, but by years of labor and torture in Chi. Screams won't even reach your god. She will not look down on you and ease your pain or smite you as you want."


"Ah, but that is where you are wrong my friend! While I am not strong enough to be noticed now, I have full faith that when I become strong enough, one day my god will murder me! The reason that I want to be apart of your glorious organization, is that you are the best of the best. The military! The greatest service to the nation! What better way to make a difference and still achieve my goals?"

[sparky9042]

Ioriston pauses until Torma finishes, then begins. "I've told you what it is I do already, and I presume I don't have to explain what clairsentience is or its utility. Perhaps I should tell you my motivations for wanting to join Cherry Home, then?" Ioriston takes another sip from his tea. "I am not exactly what anyone would call...strong. The armor I wear might look nice, to someone who doesn't know why I wear it, or someone who doesn't notice that it isn't paired with a weapon. It's fine elven mithral, yes. But that's really all I can wear. I...can't carry much more. I don't wear mithral as a status symbol or anything so much as out of necessity. Throughout my whole life, I've been weak. And I've been treated as such. I had some psionic ability, so I honed it. It was really all I had, and I wanted to become more powerful using it." The elf puts down his teacup, as his psicrystal crawls out of his backpack. "So that leads me to my choice of guilds. There were two guilds in particular I felt that might suit me well: Millennium Sphinx and Cherry Home. The former, I wanted to join because they seemed powerful. Joining them would make a statement about myself - that I am not weak, that I am capable of being powerful, that I can make a name for myself. Cherry Home, on the other hand... it is percieved as weak, and I wish to join it to see why that perception exists, and to challenge that perception. I wish to know what true strength and power are."

Ioriston finishes his speech calmly, then takes a sip of his tea again, awaiting the reaction of the guild members.

[evyldead]

Ashelyn looks a bit confused at Serephina
"Sorry, it's just you asked about the usefulness of a rogue in our guild, I assumed you were one. Yes, actually, you understand that Minka has the highest mortality rate of any guild?"

"Yes sorry my mistake, I didn't mean to get anything confused, Its easier to say a rogue because not many people understand what a Ninja is to a Rogue. We share the same talent's, just use them in different ways. As a Rogue would stealth using skill, and Ninja would combine skill with Ki energy, kind of like a wizard using magic per-say, and use the "Invisibility" spell just through our Ki energy. And other stuff we do the same like picking locks, scouting, etc." Serephina Looks up to Ashelyn like she could keep on talking about how different a Ninja is to a Rogue but cuts herself short of words and gets back to the task at hand. "I was not informed of that In-fact. May I be so bold as to ask why there is a high mortality rate in Minka compared to other guild's?"

[Oko and Qailee]

(Chistara see previous page)
Before Torma leaves.
"It will be a pleasure, it was nice meeting you."
"Take care."
"Good luck with the guild search!."

(FFwding travel to save time)
Torma easily finds Klanen, as it would be impossible to miss the fireballs being shot into the air and the sound of very loud music. As Torma got close he could hear singing growing louder and finally he entered a crowded plaza. It seemed like every building in that plaza was a tavern and a banner was strung across the plaza that read. The area was fairly crowded, with dozens of individuals with the Klanen guild symbol as well as non-members. Everyone was dancing, singing, or drinking.

"Every tavern ever is happy to party hard with Klanen!"

The banner was clearly singed.

Several barrels of ale had been carried outside, and the singing could be heard more clearly.
When you're feelin' sad and blue
and you don't know what to do
When it's just too much to take
and your bills and rent are late
No matter how bad things are
you know that hope is never far
There's a friend you can run to
who'll be there to see you though!

It's BEER!
Thought the question isn't clear
THE ANSWER IS BEER!

Nearly immediately a dwarf carrying two ales bumps into Torma. He has a ruddy complexion, a majestic brown beard, but no hair on his head to match.
"Bah, yer not a dwarf! Isk though, have a drink on ole Browter and come an celebrate wit us."
He places an ale in Torma's hand.


The dwarf looks kinda angrily at Fife
"And I suppose you want to give me your ticket boy?"

Ashelyn looks on knowingly as Serephina describes the difference between ninja's and rogues, as if it wasn't particularly new information to her. She doesn't speak until Serephina asks about the mortality rate.
"Well, mostly it's because the area we're dealing with is a lot more dangerous. The wilds between us and Chi are just that, wild. And Chi is essentially next door, and any of their military members kill us on sight. Millennium Sphinx takes on as dangerous missions, but they tend to get more powerful members than us."

Trinida looks back at Ioriston, her tone comes a bit angry. As she does so Qailee tenses up.
"I apologize, all I asked was to know a little bit more about you, though I seemed to have offended you. I actually am not fully aware of what clairsentience is, nor have to told me you specialized in it until now."
Harnor interrupts her, he's significantly more calm.
"He told me outside, I know what it is. It would be exciting to have you, we've never had any psionic, let alone a seer, in Cherry Home before. There is more to power than how strong you are, and you seem like you're on the right track thinking about it. Power is also not the only important thing in life, it doesn't mean much if you don't have anything to have it for. I would gladly help you challenge the perception of Cherry Home being weak. I think you'll find yourself becoming very powerful in a short time, you certainly seem the sort, and I most certainly will help you with that." Harnor takes a bite out of his cherry pie.
Sense Motive 18: Ioriston can tell that Trinida is not completely happy with what Harnor has just said, but she does put on a calmer demeanor.

"Qailee, bake me an apple pie when we get home, my bone marrow is going to become cherries at this rate."
A much more relaxed Qailee replies.
"You'll have to get the apples."
"No problem."

[Caligstro Smith]

Well, I was right. This certainly seems like the most fun guild... All that remains is to see if there's any substance behind this... this... convivial exterior. He grinned at the sight of so much revelry.

Torma accepts the mug with a nod, "No, I'm not, sorry to say... I just prefer this form to my own. What's the occasion? Just the festival?" He follows Browter off into the crowd.

[Oko and Qailee]

"O course my friend! Nothin is cause for celebration like new comrades and friends!"

[Caligstro Smith]

"That is so! This new friend is Torma, a wandering bender and herbalist! And what can you tell me of Klanen and its members whom I might be joining on the morrow?"

[Oko and Qailee]

Klanen is da guild da most follows the founding qualities of Xil, though it na be filled with religious folk. We believe in freedom and havin a good time, it don matter how the job get done as long as its done. We're a bit rowdy now, so it would be hard ta intraduce ya ta everyone, but we can try if ya want. We do tend ta get in trouble with da major guilds and da government a wee bit, but is nat that big o' a deal."

[sparky9042]

"Clairsentience is to psionics what divination is to magic, more or less. It is the discipline in which I am focused. And I am not at all offended by your question, I merely...got somewhat long-winded in my explanation for my reasons for wanting to join Cherry Home. My apologies for not informing everyone at the table of my specialties first." Ioriston begins eating the pie that was in front of him. "Of course, pure power on its own is...quite useless. Why you have it and what you use it for are just as important, aren't they?"

Ioriston stares into his pie for a bit, taking a couple more bites, awaiting a response.

[Oko and Qailee]

"I believe what you do with what you have, including power, is more important than the amount of power you have, so I'd say you're correct. Anyway, I must be going, I have something I have to do."
Harnor gets up and begins to head out.
"It was a pleasure to meet you, we are pretty lacking on any sort of divination in our guild."

"He's odd sometimes..."

[Samah]

[QUOTE=Oko and Qailee;17508871]"Well, apparently you already knew them! I'm sauce."
"Mischief at your service!"
You find yourself with another ale in your hand. Yet both of the two talking to you have new drinks as well. The they each put an arm around you and walk you into the crowd of singers and dancers. Another halfling woman joins you, also with the guild symbol, her blonde curly hair was as wild as it was long and reached down almost to the ground.
"You've only got our guest one drink!"
They reply in unison!
"We've got her two!"
"We've got her two!"

"Still two too few! Whats the name babe? Sing with us!"
"So kiss me, I'm ****faced
I'm soaked, I'm soiled and brown
in the trousers, she kissed me
And I only bought her one round"
(Perform check to join)


Chistara laughingly replies, "Sorry, dears, but my voice is nothing you'll be wanting to hear.I carry a tune about as well as a leaky bucket." She takes a swig of her ale appreciatively. "You all are certainly a friendly bunch! Tell me loves," Putting her arms around the two on either side of her she gives them a friendly squeeze. "Do you brawl and fight as hard as you party?"

[Oko and Qailee]

We brawl and fight harder than we party! They're practically one and the same! We could have a friendly brawl now you and I, in fact I insist! But it's up to you."
"I myself am more of a lover than a fighterrrrr"

[Caligstro Smith]

"I've lived most my life on the road, going from town to town, mostly just to see what I could of the world; personal freedom is important to me as well. I've come looking to join a guild now because I'm looking for a bit more excitement and a change in my life that still gives the opportunity to see new things. If this," Torma gestures about him with the mug he'd been handed, "is any indication, I definitely think Klanen could offer that excitement!

It's okay if we don't try to make the rounds to meet everyone in this chaos, but maybe you could tell me who leads Klanen? And what sort of trouble do you tend to get into? My innkeeper tried warning me off you guys, but her complaints, while loud, were mostly about harmless stuff. Although she did say you'd hurt the owner of your lodgings?"

[Oko and Qailee]

"Aye, we led by Avesti and Rasha, the two finest leaders any dwarf could have! Eh, ya, the bloke hurt himself playing chug and run! He okay now, nothing a small spellery coul'n fix. Meh, the Majer guilds be all whiney about minor property damage and tha like, but if'n none get seriously hurt, whassa problem?"

[Caligstro Smith]

"If the damage is paid for and people get healed that's probably all okay then..." Torma looks around at the partying and mayhem, but of course can't see much, being so much shorter than the sea of legs around him.

"So, what do should I do if I'd like to apply for Klanen?"

[Valery]

The dwarf looks kinda angrily at Fife
"And I suppose you want to give me your ticket boy?"

"That would be my wish." Fife gives him the ticket. "Well, I'll be off now sir. Have a death free day!" Fife begins to walk off in search of his hotel room before he goes back to Cherry Home for more of a hang out.

[Oko and Qailee]

A voice comes from behind Torma.
"Have a good time silly; Tell us a bit about yourself; Maybe some chug and run or start a fight with someone randomly to show off!"
Behind him stood a short female gnome. Her face was wrinkly, her hair curly, and her eyes sparkly.
"Niwa! At your service!"
She holds two ales, one of which she holds up as if offering the Torma, the other she beings drinking.

[Caligstro Smith]

"A fight, you say? It's been a while since I've had a good match! I'll fight you right here if you like, and tell a bit more about myself while we're at it!" Torma glances briefly at the gnome who's just arrived, "Ah, and nice to meet you Niwa!"

Sense Motive - Assess Opponent:
Initiative if he just accepts on the spot and starts the brawl: [roll]1d20+

[Caligstro Smith]

[roll0]

Also: Can you edit a post to fix a roll w/o messing up rolls you've made in it?

[Oko and Qailee]

(you won initiative)
"Aye, less go!"

[Caligstro Smith]

Torma takes a 5-foot step back away from Bowter, twirling his staff around in a complicated form before swinging it straight up in front of him, and a huge column of wind rushes up from his square, launching him 30' into the air. He continues to twirl his staff, though this time in another pattern, and more air swirls rapidly around his body, stabilizing him, before the funnel of air dissipates. Torma remains hanging in the air supported by the strong winds that surround him.

5-Foot Step: Self-explanatory.
Purpose: Need to be out of melee threatened range to use my next action and still be able to take 10 on my bending check for it. It has a meditation component to its use, which means that if I'm threatened in melee I can't take 10 on bending checks to use it.

Standard Action: Form 'Funnel' - a Basic Seed Form, DC 20. I choose to use 5 points of my potential augment pool to raise the length of the funnel to 30' from 20'. Because I am not threatened I may take 10 on my bending check, which gives me a Bending Check (BC) of 29. Augment pool = 9, 5 of which is spent on increasing range; rest unspent.

Free Action: I choose to have the funnel fire at low pressure, eliminating the damage and bull rush components and simply pushing me (a willing target) to the end of its length (30' straight up).

Note: I'd explain what funnel normally does, but I'm going to use it the normal way next round anyway, so I'll just explain then.

Move Action: Form 'Levitation' - a Basic Seed Form, DC 15. I choose to use 10 points from my potential augment pool to quicken the formation of this seed from a Standard Action to a Move Action. I take 10 on my BC for a 29 again, Augment Pool = 14, 10 of which is spent quickening its formation by 1 step; rest unspent.

Note: Levitation gives me a fly speed of 0' (Perfect), allowing me to move 5' as a full round action. I may use points from my augment pool to increase my fly speed by 5' for every 3 points I spend from my Augment Pool. I may maintain it as a free action, which just means that at the start of my next turn I can keep the effect going as a free action instead of forming it again each round. I must make another bending check to maintain it, but I may spend points from my Augment Pool differently with this new check.

Free Action: Funnel would normally last until the start of my next action, and I could also choose to maintain it when that time came, but I simply allow it to be dismissed instead at the end of my turn.

[sparky9042]

"I like him, though." Ioriston takes a few more bites of his pie, smiling. "And if everyone in your guild is as welcoming as you three have been, I'm certainly interested in joining."

[Oko and Qailee]

(Chistara see previous post about you)
Chistara see's Torma once again, he is now in the air under a column of wind, she also sees a harpoon thrown at Torma.

"Aye ya tosser cowardly blasted hobbit, come down here and be a man!" He chugs his ale and draws a harpoon from his back as he steps towards Torma, he throws the harpoon at Torma. Unfortunately, he wasn't in his best state of mind, and the harpoon veers short of Torma. It goes past Torma and clonks another person on the head, but no harm was done.

"I would say so, some of us are a bit more or less eccentric, others a bit shyer than others, and in Harnors case, a bit more secretive. How much can you do divin- er, I mean clairsentience wise? I know that there are different kinds of divinations, revealing different information and different degrees of specificity, I assume it's similar with clairsentience."

[Caligstro Smith]

"I'll be down again in just a moment!" Torma shouts back. He twirls his staff again, creating a new funnel, this time 10' directly above Browter, and directed straight down.

Browter must make a Reflex save DC 17. If he fails, he is subject to the below effect. If he succeeds, he moves 5' to an adjacent square not affected by the Funnel (so since it's straight down, any unoccupied adjacent square not directly above or below him). If there are no unoccupied spaces, his movement speed is 0', or the adjacent space is considered difficult terrain, he is prone in that space.

Bowter is subject to a bull rush. The effect is considered to be a creature of Medium size with a strengh modifier equal to my bender level (5):
[roll0]
If he fails he is considered checked against movement in all directions because he is being pushed toward a solid surface by the funnel.

He also is subject to 6D6 nonlethal bludgeoning damage (base DC 20 deals 4d6, with 4 points of potential Augment Pool for an extra 1d6, spent twice. Taking 10 on BC gives 29, Augment Pool = 9, 8 spent for 2d6 damage augment, rest unspent)
Damage: [roll1]

Torma then flies/hovers 20' downward toward the ground (he is now 10' above the ground).

Note: I maintain my Levitation form by taking 10 on my BC for 29. Base DC 15, Augment Pool 14, 9 spent (3 points to increase my 0' base fly speed by 5', and do this 4 times); rest unspent. Maintaining this form is a free action.

[evyldead]

Ashelyn looks on knowingly as Serephina describes the difference between ninja's and rogues, as if it wasn't particularly new information to her. She doesn't speak until Serephina asks about the mortality rate.
"Well, mostly it's because the area we're dealing with is a lot more dangerous. The wilds between us and Chi are just that, wild. And Chi is essentially next door, and any of their military members kill us on sight. Millennium Sphinx takes on as dangerous missions, but they tend to get more powerful members than us."

"I would be willing to help out with that. But helping isn't my job to as of yet, but could be.... Would I be able to get more information on to what exactly you guys are doing at the border? And would I be able to put in a ticket for this amazing guild ? She smiles as she starts asking about the ticket.

[Oko and Qailee]

(Does the damage happen regardless of whether he succeeds on the Bullrush?)
(Chistara continues seeing this, see previous two posts with your name in them)

Torma's funnel of air easily hits the stocky dwarf, but he manages to push back against it and side step away from it. Torma can hear the cheering of other people at the party as the duel goes on. The dwarf swaps to a lasso and swings it at Torma's legs, with the funnel blowing hard against the dwarf he is unable to aim properly and once again misses Torma.

[Oko and Qailee]

"we guard and patrol it and scout outwards. Chiite soldiers have been spotted farther and farther west from their lands, meaning they might be potential scouting parties for a future attack. I would happily take your ticket." She says with an outstretched hand.

[Samah]

Chistara's attention is caught briefly by the levitating Torma. She raises her brows in appreciation of the feat before swinging her gaze back 'round to her escorts. A savage grin appears, It's been a good while since my last decent brawl, even a friendly one. I'll surely take you on"

[Caligstro Smith]

Torma flies back down to ground level, 15' away from Bowter (2 5' squares between them) (he's still maintaining levitate, he's just hovering at ground level now), and as he does so the Funnel that had just assaulted the dwarf dissipates. "There, I'm back down again to keep it a fair fight, since you don't have the throwing arm to reach me up there! Come and get me if you can!"

Torma swiftly swings his staff in Bowter's direction, and a blast of wind shoots at him:
He's used 'Air Blast' - a Fundamental Seed Form. Base DC 5, spending 20 points of his potential Augment Pool to quicken it twice to a Swift Action. Take 10 on BC for a 29, Augment Pool 24, 20 spent quickening, rest unspent.

Ranged Attack: [roll0]
Non-Lethal Bludgeoning Damage: [roll1]

Then, continuing the complicated flourishing of his staff, Torma forms another Funnel directly above Bowter, and another powerful column of wind slams down onto him.

Browter must make a Reflex save DC 17. If he fails, he is subject to the below effect. If he succeeds, he moves 5' to an unoccupied adjacent square not affected by the Funnel (so not directly above or below him). If there are no unoccupied spaces, his movement speed is 0', or the adjacent space is considered difficult terrain, he is prone in that space.

Bull Rush: [roll2]
Non-Lethal Bludgeoning Damage: [roll3]

If he loses the bull rush, he is considered checked against movement in all directions.

[Oko and Qailee]

(Chistara roll initiative)
Torma's air blast catches a few other people, but there isn't much in terms of complaints except for a
"I'll jump in to help it if you don't watch it you goober!" coming from Niwa.

Bowter fails to avoid the second funnel again, but resists the bullrush. He steps out of it again, panting
"Alright, I yeild ya tosser, Ima getcha next time."

He throws his cup of ale, that he still had in his left hand, at Torma.
It clonks torma on the head for [roll0] dmg.

------

The red haired man takes a step back and takes a stance for fighting.
"Ready?"

[Caligstro Smith]

As the cup of ale flies at Torma, his staff swings blindingly fast, another rush of air following in its wake, and the flight path of the cup is disrupted.

Basically, it's like the Deflect Arrows feat, with some small changes. Instead of just auto-negating one ranged attack at him/turn as a non-action, it's an immediate action (which is how it's 1/turn), and it applies a penalty to the attack roll of a ranged attack at him. The penalty scales with my bender level (-6 -2/4 bender levels). Currently it applies a -8 to the attack roll. Let me know if that's enough to make the mug miss.

"Sorry I left your range so quickly -- I'm more used to serious fights than brawls, and when I used to spar with other benders or warriors we approached it as real combat practice. It was just reflex to get some distance! Ha ha ha!" He laughs loudly, and with his gravely voice it again comes out more as a bark. "But I look forward to next time, and you can show me what you've got!

So, do you think I have what it takes for Klanen?" He grins his usual wide grin and holds out his ticket to Bowter.

[Oko and Qailee]

Niwa replies as she snatches the ticket. "Absoooolutely, that was fun to watch. You can never have enough interesting people in our guild."

[Samah]

[roll0]

"Aye, laddybuck" Chistara swings her axe free of it's straps. "I'm ready."

[Caligstro Smith]

"I'm glad I could entertain! Well, sorry to be off so quickly, but I still have more guilds to visit before the day's done, and evening's fast approaching. Whatever the morrow brings, I'm glad to have met you both, and," turning to Browter, "thank you again for our match!"

Torma allows the swirling winds around him to fade, but before his feet even touch the ground he's already formed another swirling mass of wind beneath him, and he lands seated on a sphere of air before zooming off in the direction of Millennium Sphinx.

This one is the same air scooter Aang rides in the show. Base DC 10, and it moves at a speed of 60'+5'/5 Augment Pool points, which I've augmented to 65' for now, and I also quickened its forming into a swift action (base action is Move) for 10 points. It's maintainance is also a move action, but I quicken that as well for the same DC. I'm treated as mounted for all purposes except requiring an additional concentration check to bend while using it (as I would need for other mounts). If something damages me I have to make a balance check or fall off it, which dissipates the form.

It can also move on walls as long as it moves 30+'/rnd and it ignores difficult terrain. It may also move above water, or even pools of lava/acid. It also has a flight speed equal to its land speed with perfect maneuverability, but it can only fly for 3 consecutive rounds.

[Oko and Qailee]

It is now late afternoon.

Upon arriving at the location designated on the map, Torma finds himself at a large plaza in which three large Pavilions have been set up. There is a small crowd chatting about and a small line in front of each pavilion. At the front of the Pavilion are 3 guards, each with the Millennium Sphinx Guild Crest (see below) on the front of breast plate that they are wearings.

In the crowd is a are a few other individuals with the Millennium Sphinx crest on their clothing. The one that appears the least busy and is closest to Torma is a young woman with crimson red hair and a freckled face. She appears thin, despite the large Crimson Cloak she is wearing. Her and the other individuals seem to be informing people about the details of MS

Fife, heads back towards Cherry Home, he swears he see's Harnor walk by him on his way there, but he's not quite sure. He arrives back at the Cherry home plaza, which is currently unmanned.

[Caligstro Smith]

Just before he reaches the plaza, Torma hops off his sphere of air and approaches the final block on foot.

Just because I'm in a bit of a hurry doesn't mean I should show that to the guilds, espeically Millennium Sphinx. It might give a bad first impression, and they're supposed to be the best.

He approaches the freckled red-head his light step at odds with his aged outward appearance, geta and staff both clacking on the stones of the plaza, and when there is a break in the conversation he introduces himself with a wide grin and a small quarter-bow, "Hello! I'm Torma, a wandering bender and herbalist! I've heard yours is the strongest minor guild, but beyond that I know little of you. What could you tell me about your mighty guild?"

[evyldead]

"we guard and patrol it and scout outwards. Chiite soldiers have been spotted farther and farther west from their lands, meaning they might be potential scouting parties for a future attack. I would happily take your ticket." She says with an outstretched hand.

Seraphina hands her the ticket, "So what do you think, from your own personal preference not the guilds, what do you think I would be able to do in this guild, and if not this guild then what other guild do YOU think would best fit mytalents or what they would use of my talents?

[Samah]

[roll0] posttooshortfornoreason

[sparky9042]

Ioriston takes a bite out of his pie before answering, again. "Currently, I can detect both psionic and magic auras, set up simple scrying beacons, and discern the history of objects given to me. In addition, I am capable of entering combat as well using both targeted and area powers."

[Oko and Qailee]

"Well, first off I'll tell you that you heard right. We are the mightiest guild, we take the hardest, highest paying jobs. We have the most powerful members, hte most intelligent members, and the most talented clerics. We're very selective of who we allow in and most people don't meet our requirements. You must have a good sense of independence to work with us, as a lot of the time you may have to complete jobs on your own. Whats your name?"

"Well... certainly many of the guilds can make use of your talents. Porter Chill and Cherry Home most likely cannot. Gilde has many different jobs, so they certainly can make use of you. Millennium Sphinx can as well, though they tend to be prideful in their selection process. Innocent... well I don't know much about them. Silver Flag... nevermind. Klanen will take you as long as you're free spirited, they don't care much where your talent lies. Your question about my personal preference is odd, is it what I think you would be able to do? or what I prefer that you would do? I personally think you can expect much of what I already told you, travelling into largely dangerous and unmapped area, scouting and possible assassination."

"Very well my sweet, prepare yourself for humiliation!" The man takes a 5 foot step back and slaps both hands onto the ground, immediately a yellow goop is beneath Chistara.
(Roll reflex, save DC 14 or fall prone, after a successful reflex save you may move only with a DC10 balance check, or else not move.

If you fail the balance with a 5-9: Reroll Reflex, if you fail you fall
if you roll a 4 or lower: You fall without a reflex save.


Grease


"So you would be unable to tell us where Harnor is sneaking off to right now for example?"

[Caligstro Smith]

"Well, I've been wandering, alone, for much of my life, and I've done well enough for myself, so I certainly have the independence covered. Although I was hoping that joining a guild would bring a bit more than "nothing" in terms of community, at the very least when between jobs, and that I might have a traveling companion some of the time. How do you handle mission selection? Do your members choose their own tasks as I know some other guilds do? Or are they simply assigned by the leader? If I found some other of your members interested in the same big job could several take it?

And how do you identify those who meet your stringent requirements? Is there some standard test? One based on specialization? Those who are most intelligent surely must have different skills than those who are most powerful, at least most of the time?"

[Oko and Qailee]

"Jobs are selected by you, though the leader may ask you or recommend you some. You don't have to do a job he asks you, but its considered very poor taste and he usually knows who can handle what. We test on you multiple aspects, combat, info gather, whatever personal skills you have. We always test combat though first and most people fail at that and walk out not knowing there are other tests."

[evyldead]

[SPOILER=Serephina]"Well... certainly many of the guilds can make use of your talents. Porter Chill and Cherry Home most likely cannot. Gilde has many different jobs, so they certainly can make use of you. Millennium Sphinx can as well, though they tend to be prideful in their selection process. Innocent... well I don't know much about them. Silver Flag... nevermind. Klanen will take you as long as you're free spirited, they don't care much where your talent lies. Your question about my personal preference is odd, is it what I think you would be able to do? or what I prefer that you would do? I personally think you can expect much of what I already told you, travelling into largely dangerous and unmapped area, scouting and possible assassination."

"I do in fact love the idea of traveling in unmapped areas, and dealing with life and death. but I prefer life over death." She chuckles a little bit. "My question was to see where you think I would best fit into a guild. mainly the ones that would be of use to my talents."

[Caligstro Smith]

"Okay, that's understandable enough. Weed out people with the hardest test first to save the effort and manpower of the more time consuming ones." Torma nodded. "And is there still a sense of community within the guild though? Even if most often missions are solitary? What is Millennium Sphinx like when we're not on a job?"

[Oko and Qailee]

"Certainly, we do make friends, some more than others. Off days tend to be quite, as usually people are tired."

Upon arriving at the location designated on the map, Arrow finds himself at a large plaza in which three large Pavilions have been set up. There is a small crowd chatting about and a small line in front of each pavilion. At the front of the Pavilion are 3 guards, each with the Millennium Sphinx Guild Crest (see below) on the front of breast plate that they are wearings.

In the crowd is a are a few other individuals with the Millennium Sphinx crest on their clothing. The one that appears the least busy and is closest to Arrow is a young woman with crimson red hair and a freckled face. She appears thin, despite the large Crimson Cloak she is wearing. Her and the other individuals seem to be informing people about the details of MS, she is also currently engaged with the "dwarf" Torma whom Arrow has seen at Cherry Home.


"Haha, well most of us do. One of our major goals is to not die of course."

[Autopsibiofeeder]

Jot (Waldrick)

If nothing specifically interesting happens at the festivities, Waldrick heads back to the inn. Maybe there are some folks to share a beer or some dice with there, and otherwise he will spend his time polishing and sharpening his gear.

[Caligstro Smith]

"That's good, then. So, I'm assuming the three pavilions are where we're tested. Does it matter which I go to? Is one for each type of testing, or are there three queues just to keep waiting times down?"

[RedSand]

Maddox blinked. He didn't know why, but he felt like he'd spent days just lounging around the festival, not doing much, and Paimon was giving him what felt like a literal slap to the back of the head. Not that his objection changed anything; boring or not, Maddox should be trying to keep busy, and he could think of a few errands to run before the day's end.

With that, Maddox took to the crowds, trying to find one of two things; either a merchant, preferably one who looked like he carried books, or something...ostentatious. A chance to look impressive, he thought, and Paimon beamed at the notion while Maddox glanced around, trying to keep his pace to a reasonable speed.

[JanusJones]

Sidling up to the skinny girl and the dwarf, Arrow stands awkwardly for a moment, his hands at his sides, eyes distant. Finally, he clears his throat. "Erm ... hullo again." This with a brief nod to Torma, then he turns to the girl, though he doesn't raise his head; in his hood, his face is still hidden. "I reckon I'm here to ask 'bout the guild."

[Oko and Qailee]

The inn has become a lot more lively since Jot was last there slightly less than 45minutes ago. The tables are all filled. At one table there are indeed people gambling. There are Gilde servers carrying out a yellow liquid that is most likely ale. In a corner table of the room is a gnome, he has wavy blonde hair and green eyes, and odd sight for a gnome. He is wearing a set of pure black robes with a black cloak over his shoulders. Perhaps more impressively is how many people are surrounding him just to talk to him. In a somewhat pretentious display, the dwarf sits on a chair place on the table, making him above the crowd.

A woman asks him "Qitiore! Do you know what the show tomorrow will be?"
He replies kind of rudely, "Of course I know, I'm not an idiot. They tell us in advance what we're doing, I'll tell you right now though, the Major guilds already decided whose being promoted, they just make us put a show for you filthy plebs."
The woman looks insulted, but stays within the crowd, a man asks next.
"Whose going to be in the show tomorrow?"
"Do you really think I'm supposed to tell you that you moron? I'm not even supposed to tell you what I already told you."
"Whose going to win? Torwin se-"
"Torwin is a little ****, he has no talent."
"But, he's the best in Mill-"
"Millennium ****, their guild name is Millennium ****."

Some whispering can be heard from the crowd.
"He's from Innocent... they clean the Sphinx's stables for money and he's saying that..."


"It makes no difference."

It takes Maddox some time to find anything at all, it seems that nearly every building that might have been for selling goods was closed for the festival. He first comes across a small stall with dozens of charms and books around it as he looks at it a mans head comes from the side of the cart. He has a wide smile and dark black eyes and his skin is pale. Most interestingly is that his neck stretched around the cart so that his head was now close to Maddox's face.

"OOhhh, HeeeEEEelllooo. I see you want some nice books and curses and charms, guaranteed for all of the luck and curses you need. Locho's the name, murder is my game, I mean, selling fine wares. Do you need your kidneys? I mean, do you need any assistance?

"You mean you're here for the best guild. Your name is?"

[JanusJones]

"Arrow." He shifts a little, his rough hand opening and closing near his bow. He looks up, a steely glint in his eye - a flash of only a moment as the girl makes her statement.

[evyldead]

"Haha, well most of us do. One of our major goals is to not die of course."

"Well it is good that 'not dying' is a good talent of mine, haha."

[Valery]

It is now late afternoon.

Fife, heads back towards Cherry Home, he swears he see's Harnor walk by him on his way there, but he's not quite sure. He arrives back at the Cherry home plaza, which is currently unmanned.

Fife, knowing that Cherry Home was a safe place to rest himself for the sake of conversation, went up the steps into the tea shop and searched for someone to converse with; specifically Trinida and Qailee. Trinida seemed like the right person to be talking to about quests and what kind of quests Fife would be expecting. In short, he really just wanted to hear stories. However, the story of the woman with the angel's wings, Qailee, is one that intrigued him the most, only because he hadn't yet encountered anyone with wings before.

"Hello agian! As I said, I have returned. So, I had a few more questions about the guild, or more to the point, about yourselves. I'd like to hear some stories of your exploits. Old missions and such. If that is alright?"

[Caligstro Smith]

"Ah, hello again!" Torma beams at the tall, rough man beside him. He then turns back to the freckled woman, "Well, thank you for the information. I supposed I'll be off to the examinations, now. I was good to meet you, Miss ...?"

*After she replies, or after a sufficiently long, pointedly awkward moment if she just ignores him*

Torma walks over to join the shortest line for one of the testing pavilions, twirling his staff briefly and Forming 'Levitation' again as he does so. He keeps his feet on the ground, though, with the winds just swirling about him.

[Autopsibiofeeder]

Jot (Waldrick)

Waldrick enters the inn and slowly moves towards the crowd. He listens to the conversation and frowns. He asks someone on the fringe of the crowd: "Why are people lining up to be bad-mouthed by that Dwarf?"

[sparky9042]

"With my current skillset, I could likely attempt to discern some information about, say, what direction he may have went or did not go, or where and how he acquired an item he returned with. Eventually, when I grow more powerful, I can do more with my clairsentience, though a downside to that as with divinations is that many of them take a while to properly set up. Intelligence-gathering through psionic or magical means is not something that can typically be done immediately. Is this sort of behavior typical of Harnor, though? Next time he does something like it, I could in theory improvise a few scrying beacons following him -- though it's risky, as he is a mage and might be able to pull off a simple detect magic to know that something's going on." As Ioriston finishes talking, he realizes something. "Of course, with the amount of time we've been talking, he's likely too far for me to have a good guess -- if you wanted to know which direction, my first beacon would've been right outside the door, then I would've followed him with a few more beacons - the power I use to set those up only allows me to place them in familiar or obvious places."

[Oko and Qailee]

(There, stuff is happening as Torma finishes his guild visits :smallbiggrin:)
(I changed two NPC's text color/boldness (Qailee/Torwin), sorry if this confuses anyone)
Natalie replies to Torma first, "It's Natalie." After Torma heads away there is a bit of an awkward pause between Arrow and Natalie.

"...aaand can I help you? Any questions before you try to apply within the pavilions?"

As Torma heads to a pavilion a man in a mithril half plate walks out of it. His hair and eyes are a dark brown, his face shows years of combat upon it, and his look, extremely serious. Behind him is an extremely buff woman, she wears full plate and a large battle axe is strapped to her chest, her face also displays years of combat, her hair and eyes match the mans in appearance, even her hair was short like his. The man turns to the line and sort of angrily addresses them.
"I'm busy, all of you go to another pavilion."
Him and the woman begin to walk off, as the pass Natalie the man addresses her.
"Natalie, lets go, now."
"Why?"
The woman replies for the man.
"The ugly gnome Qitiore has been talking **** and saying stuff he shouldn't, we're going to go temporarily shut him up."

The three of them stride off. Natalie quickly remarks "Guild business" to Arrow before she walks with the other two.


A man turns to Waldrick.
"Are you serious? That's Qitiore, the greatest member of Innocent, he's a legend... though he seems a bit drunk now... an insult is worth the interview from the Master of Shadows."


"If it's alright if I ask... how old are you?"

"Harnor is friendly, but he's sometimes secretive. Me and Qailee just wonder because we're such big gossips." She says only half jokingly. Qailee giggles and nods her head in agreement.
(Changed Qailees color from now on for readability)
"Oh, but it would be rude to spy on him... so, could you discern where I got an item, even if it's been a long time? I would love to see some of your clairsentience... I've only ever gotten to read about anything about psionics..." Her voice comes out as though disappointed.

Right then Fife McDougal, the deathsinger, approaches the table.
"Hello agian! As I said, I have returned. So, I had a few more questions about the guild, or more to the point, about yourselves. I'd like to hear some stories of your exploits. Old missions and such. If that is alright?"

Qailee looks nervous at his question.
"I don't... I mean, I never..."
Trinida attempts to distract from the nervousness.
"Absolutely! I'd be glad to, but first I believe Qailee wanted Ioriston to look at something, but only if you want to of course."

[evyldead]

"If it's alright if I ask... how old are you?"

"I am 27 in halfling years."

[Autopsibiofeeder]

Jot (Waldrick)

"Ohh....right." He shrugs apologetically, "I am not from here, you see." Jot turns around and rolls his eyes. He decides to see if there is something else to do. If he wants to see and hear a drunken Dwarf, he could go...well, basically anywhere after dinner-time. He makes sure he gets a hold of a beer, though.

It's not you, it is Waldrick...he is rather boring and tough to entertain :smallwink:.

[sparky9042]

"Oh, it's fine. Any item will do, really. Spend as much time as you like talking all things Cherry Home, I'll be listening, though focused on studying the object moreso, this does take some time."

Augmenting by one point to increase its duration, spending 20 minutes focusing on whatever item Qailee gives me.

[roll0] to see if I skip any previous owners. 0-9 means I do, let's say?

[Caligstro Smith]

Hmm.... They sure didn't seem very friendly... I'll want to look into where they went later tonight, if i can.

Torma shrugs and heads off to the next shortest pavilion line, his levitation form still maintained around him.

[JanusJones]

(There, stuff is happening as Torma finishes his guild visits :smallbiggrin:)
(I changed two NPC's text color/boldness (Qailee/Torwin), sorry if this confuses anyone)
[SPOILER=Torma, Arrow]Natalie replies to Torma first, "It's Natalie." After Torma heads away there is a bit of an awkward pause between Arrow and Natalie.

"...aaand can I help you? Any questions before you try to apply within the pavilions?"

"... Pavilions? Sorry, ye'll havta' explain."

[Valery]

"If it's alright if I ask... how old are you?"

"Harnor is friendly, but he's sometimes secretive. Me and Qailee just wonder because we're such big gossips." She says only half jokingly. Qailee giggles and nods her head in agreement.
(Changed Qailees color from now on for readability)
"Oh, but it would be rude to spy on him... so, could you discern where I got an item, even if it's been a long time? I would love to see some of your clairsentience... I've only ever gotten to read about anything about psionics..." Her voice comes out as though disappointed.

Right then Fife McDougal, the deathsinger, approaches the table.
"Hello agian! As I said, I have returned. So, I had a few more questions about the guild, or more to the point, about yourselves. I'd like to hear some stories of your exploits. Old missions and such. If that is alright?"

Qailee looks nervous at his question.
"I don't... I mean, I never..."
Trinida attempts to distract from the nervousness.
"Absolutely! I'd be glad to, but first I believe Qailee wanted Ioriston to look at something, but only if you want to of course."


"I can certainly wait. It would be interesting to see what sort of magic this man can produce, provided that it does not destroy us....I'm sorry....that one slipped out. I really feel quite comfortable here. Habits dying hard I suppose."

Fife waits for the man he has never seen before(Ioriston) to preform his magics, but didn't realize that it would take so long to do so. So, he scrambled for some tea, and once again removed his cloak and hood to sit down and began sipping.

[Oko and Qailee]

"And what does that translate to in actual years?"

As Jot turns around 3 new people enter the tavern. The first is an athletically built man. His face was prideful, stern, and showed years of battle on it. His eyes and hair were a dull dark brown. He wore a Mithril half plat and strapped to his back was a guisarme. He stood with an authoritative posture. The second was an older woman, extremely muscular. Her hair and eyes matched that of the mans, but her face was softer and cheery despite the scars that it also held. The final one was a young woman with a narrow face and crimson hair. She wore a crimson cloak that matched.

As they walk past Waldrick and towards the gnome, the older woman slaps his behind.
"My room later good looking."
The crowd near the gnome begins to dissipate as the three approach the gnome.
"That's Torwin! Better stay out of his way."

Other than minor gambling, drinking, and listening to some light folk music there didn't seem much for Waldrick to do. He most certainly manages to get a beer from a Gilde server.
It's watered down, but at least its actual beer.

(Well, hopefully he'll enjoy a nice beer :smallbiggrin:)


Before Ioriston begins, Trinida speaks up.
"Oh, where are my manners? Fife, this Ioriston, Ioriston, Fife."
After introductions, Qailee produces a silver Holy symbol of The Divine One (tree within a triangle), it looks expertly made with many small details on the symbol. Ioriston only spends 10 minutes readin it, as it has only had two previous owners.

(chronological) The symbol was made by a lawful good aligned 27 year old (at the time) male human named Y'nul who presented it as a wedding gift to a good aligned 24 year old female human named Caitlyn who gave it to her daughter, Qailee.


Natalie does manage to tell Arrow before the other two ask her to walk away with them.
"The big, tent-like things, each of them has an... instructor? that will test you on various things."
-----

The line for Torma move rather rapidly. As he reaches the front he enters the tent. Inside is mostly empty, though there are weapons standing on racks all along the inside "walls" of the pavilion. AT the center stands a single young man. He has short black hair and a narrow face. He is standing slouched with both hands behind his head and currently wears a disinterested look on his face. At his side two swords are sheathed.

"Yo."

[Caligstro Smith]

"Hello! I'm Torma, a bender and herbalist!"

*Torma pauses to give the man time to introduce himself*

"I understand there are several tests to pass to be approved by your great guild. Combat is the first of them? Are you to be my opponent? Or is there some other proof by combat?"

[Autopsibiofeeder]

Jot (Waldrick)

Waldrick eyes the man that enters. Torwin, now that's a man I can respect. More than a drunk Dwarf....Gnome. He looks at the Dwarf again and concludes it is a Gnome. Ah well. He decides to entertain himself with a few games of dice. No cheating. He could, that much of Girelda has rubbed off on him, but he wouldn't. Then, after enjoying a few watered down beers, he will head up to his room.

[JanusJones]

Arrow waits in line, calloused hands in his bow,

[evyldead]

"And what does that translate to in actual years?"

"I don't know really haha i thought we just aged faster then humans, we live longer, that might be it."

[Valery]

Before Ioriston begins, Trinida speaks up.
"Oh, where are my manners? Fife, this Ioriston, Ioriston, Fife."
After introductions, Qailee produces a silver Holy symbol of The Divine One (tree within a triangle), it looks expertly made with many small details on the symbol. Ioriston only spends 10 minutes readin it, as it has only had two previous owners.

"Yes, we haven't met yet. I'm Fife McDougal, pleased to meet you Ioriston. Are you an applicant? I am. Seems like a comfortable place to be." Fife takes off his tinted glasses and places them on the table next to his tea. "Trinida, if I may ask, when we were talking earlier you didn't ask me to perform any special skills, why is that? And Ioriston, may I ask what it is that you are doing with the object?

[Oko and Qailee]

The man shrugs then nods.
"Names Sylar."
On the far end of the pavilion lies a small passageway, from with slithers a huge serpent, it moves 30 ft within Torma. Sylar steps out of the way.
"Don't panic, it doesn't bite too much."
(Roll initiative, pavilion is 40x30x15 flat arena with a weapons rack surrounding all but the north and south entrances. Sylar is on the far right wall of the pavilion.)
----

Arrows line also moves fairly quickly. As he enters the pavilion he finds that the pavilions is mostly empty save for weapons racks all along the "walls." A man stands at the center of the room. He has curly black hair with blonde highlights. He is thin, certainly not the body of a warrior. His large royal purple coat covers a fancy blue dress shirt and white trousers, his feathered cap matches his coat.
"The pleasure is mine to meet you! Ignacio is the name! And yours? I'm afraid we haven't much time left in the day, are you more than ready for a trial by combat before we move on?


(assuming "after a few watered down beers" means you're there for more than two rounds right?)
As Waldrick plays dice the room becomes fairly quite. Torwin moves up to the gnome, followed by the other two women.
The gnome speaks first.
"What do you want you spoiled brat?"
"A bird told me you were insulting our guild, we don't appreciate that. To make matters worse, you're not to inform the commoners of tomorrow nights event."
"I don't give a **** what you appreciate."
Torwin calmly draws his guisarme from his back.
"You will shut up."
The gnome stays quite for a moment and gets off the chair he begins to walk away...

and instead suddenly turns and fires what looks like a ray made of shadow right at Torwin, the crimson haired woman clearly tries to counterspell, but fails. The ray manages to hit Torwin... but only leaves a small scorch on his plate, he looks extremely unimpressed. The gnome, looking nervous, manages to only take a step back before Torwin dashes at him. His weapon glows white and he lifts the guisarme and smashes the blunt end of the weapon into the gnomes head... the gnome smashes into the ground, cracking the floor boards, and is out cold.

(Two spellcrafts if you want)
"You may continue interviewing the dwarf-gnome. Don't forget your place Innocent, you're nothing but our mop."
Him and the two women begin to walk out. Three of the people who were surrounding the dwarf approach him to check on him, the all have the Innocent guild symbol.
(If you head to your room you find that it is still tiny, it has not magically become bigger in the time you have been gone).


"So you're young for a halfling then? Equivalent to a human teenager, or close to it?"
A bit of worry can be heard in her voice.

(Ioriston, don't forget to read the previous post)
"Oh, I'm sorry, I was a bit caught up in conversation. To be honest, I meant to, and I am required to. You said you were a death singer, I assume a bard related to the Home of Death?"

[Caligstro Smith]

Torma raises his bushy eyebrows in surprise.

1d20+3

[Oko and Qailee]

Tormas actual initiative: [roll0]

The snake lunges at Torma angrily. It snaps its jaws at the dwarf and Torma feels its fangs penetrate his skin for 18dmg. It rapidly swings it's body around Torma attempting to grapple/constrict him.
(You must make a 24 on a grapple check or be grappled.)

[JanusJones]

Arrows line also moves fairly quickly. As he enters the pavilion he finds that the pavilions is mostly empty save for weapons racks all along the "walls." A man stands at the center of the room. He has curly black hair with blonde highlights. He is thin, certainly not the body of a warrior. His large royal purple coat covers a fancy blue dress shirt and white trousers, his feathered cap matches his coat.
"The pleasure is mine to meet you! Ignacio is the name! And yours? I'm afraid we haven't much time left in the day, are you more than ready for a trial by combat before we move on?

Arrow nods. If anyone had been watching the awkward little hooded figure, they'd have been surprised. His posture is suddenly relaxed, his eyes clear. He hefts his bow.

[Caligstro Smith]

Torma attempts to wriggle free of the massive snake's coils.

Escape Artist Check: [roll0]

[Caligstro Smith]

Torma's Turn:

Torma continues wriggling in an attempt to escape the snake's clutches.

Escape Artist Check: [roll0]

[Oko and Qailee]

Torma manages to successfully escape the dire snakes grapple.
----
Ignacio bows as he steps aside, a huge hairy bat swoops into the room. It looks crazed and flitters about erratically. It notices Arrow and has a clear bloodthirst in its eyes.
"Be gentle, Torwin loves his pets."
(If you beat a 20 on initiative you may go first)

[Caligstro Smith]

Concentration check to see if Levitation failed (DC 13+18=31) (gotta roll a 20)
[roll0]

Torma then swiftly nods to himself and a whirlwind of air beings blowing about him (Activate Air Devotion, +2 AC. AC now 23, Touch 23, Flat 20, and 50% miss chance vs ranged).

Torma then attempts to bend defensively (DC 18 concentration), twirling his staff and swinging it in the snake's direction

Deals 1d4 sonic damage, no save, + Fort Save DC 17 vs deafened. Attempting to use 12 points of his potential Augment Pool to increase the damage by 8d4. Must ROLL bending check because he is threatened in melee and using a form with a meditation component. Must roll an 8 or better to succeed. Other wise Must roll a 13 or better to still form it by overbending, but becomes fatigued and take 1 con damage to self.
Bending Check: [roll1]
Sonic Damage: [roll2]

Torma looks ready in case of another melee attack now.

To save time I'm just doing this here ahead of time since I'm assuming it's going to melee me again. I Form Somersault Basic Seed, letting me attempt a tumble check to avoid a melee attack an immediate action. Because snake is HUGE size, Tumble check is DC 24... (I may take 10 on this BENDING CHECK to form the seed because this form does not have a meditation component)

Tumble Check: [roll3]

[Caligstro Smith]

NOTE: Crap I forgot I had to quicken the soundbending to a move action also -- I can't actually attempt it w/o quickening it first. I already know the amount of my bending check roll, so I'll just have to spend my augment pool amount I stated i'm trying to use, since I have to declare the amount first in case of over bending risk. So I only do 1d4 sonic damage

[roll0]

[Caligstro Smith]

OOC: AAAHH, I forgot to make the concentration roll I mentioned for bending defensively too, Sorry for forgetting things - was trying to post really fast since we're both posting online at same time right now!:

[roll0]

[JanusJones]

[roll0]
I'm guessing it's the bat's turn.

[Valery]

(Ioriston, don't forget to read the previous post)
"Oh, I'm sorry, I was a bit caught up in conversation. To be honest, I meant to, and I am required to. You said you were a death singer, I assume a bard related to the Home of Death?"

"Oh for sure. It wasn't always like that though. Before, I was nothing really, just a bard with his bardic troupe wondering the great expanse of our nation. We were happy, not content, that would suppose that we were just scrapping by. No, we were happy, making money, and playing our way across the world! I think there were about a hundred of us put together. Then," Fife shivers and grasps the cup of tea almost instantaneously. He slams the cup down onto the table, cracking its handle. He begins to pull together the shattered remains of the cup and, speaking again, holds a darkness in his voice, "Then, people began dying, but not just dying. They were subjected to the worst deaths imaginable....in that every death was caused by something incredibly stupid....one man was even end by rabbits! Rabbits! So, I eventually became the soul survivor of my troupe. That was also when I realized the Home of Death had it right. For with so much death in my life, what else could be the explanation?"

Fife stares at the broken tea cup for a moment. Opening his mouth once more he says, "If I am accepted I will do my best to keep everyone alive. But you must know this: It is my dearest desire to be personally slain by the Queen of Death. At some point you will have to say goodbye to me and I to you. However, keeping to my promise of assistance towards everyone else, I'll leave this world happy knowing that none of my friends were eliminated....ridiculously or otherwise. As for what I'm capable of, I'll need some sort of test from you I suppose."

[Autopsibiofeeder]

Jot (Waldrick)

With a broad smile Waldrick watches the fight unfold. Once the Gnome is down, he taps the table in appreciation. That Gnome had it coming. He also appreciates he himself was not on the other end of that guisarme. Looks like this Torwin delivers a mean blow.

[roll0]
[roll1]

[sparky9042]

Ioriston finishes his readings as the group is conversing. "This was an interesting choice of item to give me. It is your holy symbol, I presume? You acquired it from...your mother, Caitlyn, who herself acquired it at her wedding at the age of 24 as a gift from the one who crafted it, Y'nul, who was 27 when he crafted it."

[Samah]

"Very well my sweet, prepare yourself for humiliation!" The man takes a 5 foot step back and slaps both hands onto the ground, immediately a yellow goop is beneath Chistara.
([B]Roll reflex, save DC 14 or fall prone, after a successful reflex save you may move only with a DC10 balance check, or else not move.
[/QUOTE]

[SPOILER=Reflex Save] [roll0]

[Samah]

"Well, now, this does seem to be a bit of a predicament that I'm in...However, I don't believe that I'll count myself out just yet." Chistara holds up her hand and casts Ray of Enfeeblement, causing a coruscating ray to spring forth.


[roll0]

[roll1] strength damage

[Oko and Qailee]

(You are correct)
The bat swoops down at Arrow, as it does it bites rapidly into his neck for [roll0] damage before it flies past him 10 ft away.
----
Torma's soundbending hits the snake, but it certainly does not seem deafened in the least. The snake rears back and attempts to bite at Torma again, but being ready for it, Torma flips over the snake into a new square 10ft away. The serpent (with its move action) moves closer to Torma once again, looking quite upset that it didn't get to bite the "dwarf."



Qailee nods. "It's dear to me... your cliarsentience is neat, you are going to keep studying more of it right?"

Trinida looks oddly at Fife
"Certainly you are a unique one. Well, I do not know exactly how to ask you to display your abilities. With Ioriston he explained and the demonstrated exactly what he can do. If combat is closer to your area of expertise, I would happily duel you."


(You don't recognize either spell.) As Torwin heads out he notices Waldrick. Pausing he sits down and nods to the two women to continue on without him.
"You don't seem like a fan of the gnome, did he say much about tomorrow? Tomorrow is a money maker... and while I don't care certainly those trying to make money do. You joining a guild?"

The ray hits the red haired man and he nearly instantly looks weaker. He looks at her wide-eyed.
"You butt! I was going to do that!"
He returns the favor with the same spell but narrowly misses as CHistara moves her face out of the way.
(Reroll reflex save DC14 or fall prone before your turn begins)

[Samah]

The ray hits the red haired man and he nearly instantly looks weaker. He looks at her wide-eyed.
"You butt! I was going to do that!"
He returns the favor with the same spell but narrowly misses as CHistara moves her face out of the way.
(Reroll reflex save DC14 or fall prone before your turn begins)
[/QUOTE]

[roll0]

"Too slow, laddybuck!!" She then casts Kelgore's Firebolt (DC14) for [roll1] of damage.

[Caligstro Smith]

Torma attempts to form Soundbending: Thundercrack again. This time he uses his Standard Action to form it, again planning to use 12 points of potential Augment Pool (AP) to increase damage to 9D4 sonic damage.

Concentration Check to Bend Defensively (DC 18): [roll0]
Bending Check to form Soundbending (DC 27, or DC 22 to succeed with overbending): [roll1]
Sonic Damage if Bending Check Succeeds: [roll2]

Torma then attempts to more quickly form Soundbending: Thundercrack yet again. He uses his move action to do so by attempting to quicken the form with 10 points of AP, and increase damage by 2d4 with 3 points of AP. Damage would be 3d4 with success.

Concentration Check to Bend Defensively (DC 18): [roll3]
Bending Check to form Soundbending (DC28, or DC 23 with overbending): [roll4]

NOTE: If I overbended with my standard action attempt, I DO NOT attempt to overbend again, and instead allow my form to fail if I don't make the DC 28. However if I didn't overbend with my standard action, and would succeed on this move action only with overbending, I still do it.

Finally, Torma again looks ready to attempt to leap over the snake's next attack:

Pre-emptive Tumble check for Somersault (DC 24): [roll5]
Attack of Opportunity if Tumble check succeeds: [roll6]
Non-lethal Bludgeoning Damage if AoO actually hits: [roll7]

Note: I forgot that successful use of Somersault gives me an AoO on the opponent I'm dodging, but since we've passed last round, I assume I just didn't take it before. My AoO is with an Air Blast attack, which is why I'm using my dex mod instead of strength mod to attack it. I CAN take 10 on my Air Blast bending check to form it, so I can't fail the check. I don't bother augmenting it.

[Caligstro Smith]

Forgot 1 roll (Damage for my move action Soundbending): [roll0]

Also summary of my attempts: Torma attempts to create another crack of thunder, but his close proximity to the huge snake distracts him just enough that the form fails. He then attempts to quickly try again, and is successful. (DC 17 fort vs deafened again).

His tumble check was also successful to dodge the snake's next attack. IDK about his attack roll to AoO it.

[Valery]

Qailee nods. "It's dear to me... your cliarsentience is neat, you are going to keep studying more of it right?"

Trinida looks oddly at Fife
"Certainly you are a unique one. Well, I do not know exactly how to ask you to display your abilities. With Ioriston he explained and the demonstrated exactly what he can do. If combat is closer to your area of expertise, I would happily duel you."


Fife puts his tinted glasses back on saying, "It would probably be best to have a duel, provided that we can be sufficiently healed. Though, I should say that my abilities do work best in groups. I'm much more of a supporting role, but I can take care of myself." Fife brings out his sickle. "Would you like to duel?"

[Oko and Qailee]

The serpent once again does not seem bothered in the least by the loud noise. (Total damage so far: 9) Torma's fist only barely taps the serpent, not harming it in the least. The serpent attempts to strike Torma again, but fails once again.

"Qailee is an exceptional healer, that's why she was originally brought here after all."

You fall, but you still have a move and standard action and stuff

[Caligstro Smith]

Torma attempts to form Soundbending: Thundercrack again. This time he uses his Standard Action to form it, again planning to use 12 points of potential Augment Pool (AP) to increase damage to 9D4 sonic damage.

Concentration Check to Bend Defensively (DC 18): [roll0]
Bending Check to form Soundbending (DC 27, or DC 22 to succeed with overbending): [roll1]
Sonic Damage if Bending Check Succeeds: [roll2]

Torma then attempts to more quickly form Soundbending: Thundercrack yet again. He uses his move action to do so by attempting to quicken the form with 10 points of AP, and increase damage by 2d4 with 3 points of AP. Damage would be 3d4 with success.

Concentration Check to Bend Defensively (DC 18): [roll3]
Bending Check to form Soundbending (DC28, or DC 23 with overbending): [roll4]
Sonic Damage: [roll5]

NOTE: If I overbended with my standard action attempt, I DO NOT attempt to overbend again, and instead allow my form to fail if I don't make the DC 28. However if I didn't overbend with my standard action, and would succeed on this move action only with overbending, I still do it.

Finally, Torma again looks ready to attempt to leap over the snake's next attack:

Pre-emptive Tumble check for Somersault (DC 24): [roll6]
Attack of Opportunity if Tumble check succeeds: [roll7]
Non-lethal Bludgeoning Damage if AoO actually hits: [roll8]

[Valery]

"Qailee is an exceptional healer, that's why she was originally brought here after all."

"Sounds good to me! We can begin whenever you're ready."

[Oko and Qailee]

Failing the concentration check, Torma fails to bend defensively. He hits with the quickened sonic blast, but the snake is still not deafened (dmg: 16). The snake attempts to lunge again, but Torma dodges again.

Trinida and nods and stands up to walk out, Qailee begins to protest
I don't thin-" but Trinida cuts her off.
"It'll be fine."

She walks out of the tea shop (I'm assuming Fife follows) to the plaza. Qailee follows as well.
"Whenever you're ready."
(You choose where you start, plaza is 40x40, Trinida is at the center. You must beat a7 on initiative to go first.