Into the Rising Mist

[Hefty Lefty]

Unitus - Town Square

The city of Unitus stands tall in the evening sky's glow. The town square is busy, as usual, with citizens walking through the town square or sitting by the fountain. The fountain in the center reaches ten feet tall and shoots crystal clear water from its spout. At its base, small white lilies float in the calm water. Nearby, a lamppost with a sign attached is being lit by a town guardsman as the night begins to fall. The sign, written on a fine parchment, sports golden ink and a flowing script. On it is written the following:

Greetings, Citizens of Unitus.

I seek the assistance of a few seasoned adventurers. I own a mining business in the northern reaches of Bevorven. In my aging years, I find the trek too difficult to go alone from my home here along Lake Supreme. Any men interested in escorting me north should politely meet me at the Fawn's Tail at sundown. I can assure you, I will reward you handsomely for protecting me through the journey.

Sincerely,
Jackson Aurellis

[HempRope]

What would you have done if one of us was a straight barbarian?

Male Dwarf

Into the square strolls a dwarf -- in fact, the way that this dwarf is moving just about defines the word stroll, as he steps slowly, looking about himself with great leisure and apparent enjoyment, his hands sunk deep in the pockets of a loose shirt. He loves this time of the evening, sun preparing to set, families, young people and older couples out enjoying the always-temperate weather in this latitude. This time of day doesn't exist back home. It was a luxury afforded only residents of these large, southern cities. In fact, three weeks ago he himself had never seen a lamp lit. Well, besides a little lantern when someone come inside who isn't used to the dark.

His attention drawn to the lamp even after the lamplighter had departed -- they have lamplighters down here! It's silly, really -- he meanders over to look at what is attached below it. Some kind of public announcement? Inefficient way to spread news... oh, no, it's, well, it's a public announcement but it's not from the city. And look at that. Just precisely the sort of thing I was looking for. Alarmingly exactly the thing I was looking for. Uh-oh! I might be late! What is the Fawn's Tale? Is that a road? A gate? Oh, probably a pub or some such. Well, off to find it... I hope he doesn't want to leave tonight I finally found a place with northern ale, I can get a break from this sweet wine... and my bag is back in my room...

The dwarf leaves the square going back the way he entered it, his stride slightly quicker than it was. Though he still might be late.

[GuyFawkes]

What would I have done had I gone a straight barbarian? :D
============================================

Young Man

The sun had begun to set when the young man saw the sprawling city by the lake. Unitus. It has been a while.

As he continued towards the metropolis, memories begin to play in his mind. He was but a young boy when he was first brought here. His parents were traders from a small village on the island to the east, and Unitus was a major stop over in their trade rout which stretched all the way to Udo'kai in the deserts of the west. As he was an only child, and they had no relatives to leave him with, his parents had to bring him every time they went on the road.

He would always enjoy the stops in Unitus. It was a huge bustling metropolis, with wonders that captivated his young eyes; the buildings, the shops, the houses, everything was big compared to the ones in their village. And the majestic view of the lake during sunrise and sunsets. He could not remember the details, but he remembered the feeling it gave him as a boy, that of awe and excitement.

Nine years since I last came here, he thought. A long time, and yet it seemed like yesterday. Then he remembered why it was the last time. Flashes of whistling arrows, and clashing steel, and screams, and blood. He thought he had forgotten the pain, but there it was again, gripping his chest. He shook his head, trying to dismiss his thoughts. Now's not the time to be living the past.

As his mind shifted back into the present, he found himself walking in the wide streets of Unitus, working his way in the usual bustle of traders, locals, and travelers. The clatter of hooves and footsteps and traders shouting in advertisement of their goods, the smell of different kinds of perfumes, and bread, and other food all brought a sense of nostalgia. The city seemed so familiar, as he had remembered. And yet, it was different. Time. Time changes everything, he thought. He took a moment to take all the sights and sounds of the city in, making a new memory for himself, then he reminded himself why he was here.

He worked his way around the city into the central plaza vividly through memory, and as he arrived, the first thing he noticed was the large fountain at the center. It's still there, I see. Other than that, the plaza looked different from what he imagined. Changed. Then moving on to his purpose he looked around for signs and posters. He trained his eyes to look, it was already getting dark, and there were still lots of people going about. He noticed a guardsman lighting a lamppost, and as he looked closer he noticed something was posted on it. Bingo.

He walked towards the lamppost, snaking through traffic, and as he got there, his suspicions were confirmed. It was a job offer. He then proceeded read the details. Escort duty. Sounds easy enough. Though I've never been to Bevorven so I may not know what to expect.

"Hmm. Fawn's Tail by sundown," he told himself. The name sounded familiar. He paused for a while to try and work his mind into remembering, but to no avail. Maybe it was just his imagination, he thought. Then he looked around and saw the guardsman lighting another lamppost nearby, and approached him.

"Pardon my interruption, Sir. I am to go to this place called Fawn's Tail. Could you point me the way?"

[Hefty Lefty]

((Taught you to read? ))

Unitus - Town Square

The guardsman turns around to face the young man. Through the metal guard of his helmet a gristled mouth speaks. "Fawn's Tail?" The man seems a bit put off by the question. "You wanna blow a gold piece on food that won't even fill ya stummik? I tell ya, there are better ways to spend ya money than on that fancy food." He raises a hand to his hip and exhales. "But I suppose I can't stop ya. It's right down a'that way." He points his finger down a white cobblestone that follows the coast of the lake. The guard turns back to his duty at the lamppost.

[Omeganaut]

Haughty Human Musician

Amadeus strolls into the square. He notices a dwarf attempting a stroll, and with every fiber of his being, outdoes the dwarf. His nose is so high its hard to believe it was still attached to his face. He looks down upon the passerby, much as a god looks down upon mere mortals, and watches the dwarf scurry off back the way he came 'Probably going home to eat rat or some other lower-class food'

Watching the passerby, something about the sign affixed to the lamp catches his eye. Reading with a practices nonchalance, Amadeus is intrigued by the dwarf, and decides that following the dwarf would be a brilliant way of making money, making friends with a wealthy potential patron, and getting to Bevorven with a group of experienced travelers. Amadeus knew that something was happening with the mines around Bevorven, and wanted to be at the center of the action, in hopes of being inspired for new music. He looks for a well-to-do person whom he hasn't met before (due to that incident at the recital hall the other night), and finds one quickly.

He stops in front of the charming lady, and sweeps his hat off with a flourish. "Good Evening my dear lady, but I am afraid I am having trouble navagating this fine town. I thought such a well-bred sophisticated woman such as yourself would have a good knowledge of every delightful corner of this city. I know its a dreadful imposition, but I would be ever so grateful if you could point me in the direction of a place called 'The Fawn's Tail'. I have an urgent meeting there. I'd also just like to mention how delightful it has been conversing with such a stunning young beauty such as yourself."

[tonberryking]

Scruffy Mercenary

The professional mercenary didn't expect to find a job posting so soon back in his homeland's capitol. All the more reason for him not to stay for long. Not that there was no one left for him to trust; he had his huge war-mare stabled at an inn he was in good with the management with. No worries about her trying to rear-kick some stupid fool of a horse thief; she'd be tended and left alone.

No there were other reasons. Having the look of a Unitus cavalry man, but too scruffy, too lacking in insignias or banners let damn near everyone know he was out of work on sight. And here he was, not putting much stock in creating the appearance it was from choice, not from dishonor.

Oh well. Crap happens.

Kodoz walks with direction to where the taverns are and then manages to drift about until he finds the Fawn's Tail. Whoever set up that not back in the square smelled of money from the looks of the note alone, and he hadn't been north yet in his travels. May as well take a shot at seeing it.

[GuyFawkes]

Young Man

"My thanks," as he went on to where the guardsman pointed him. From what he could surmise, this Fawn's Tail sounded like a tavern, nay, more a restaurant for rich people. "Well that's a good sign," and he smiled at the prospect that the job would have a hefty paycheck.

As he walked down the street, training his eyes left and right for signposts, he finally found one that read "Fawn's Tail", and by the looks of the trappings and decorations on the place, it certainly looked like his prospects were correct. He smiled once again and entered.

[Hefty Lefty]

Unitus - Town Square

A young lady stops dead in her tracks upon hearing the eloquent rambling of a certain musician. Her light blue doe eyes seem to gaze in amazement at the speech being presented to her, so much so that she seems not to be paying attention to the message but rather every individual word as if it were a work of art and a puzzle she was attempting to piece together. At the end of the speech, her face remained unchanged. The words ended, but she clearly expected more. She shook her head to regain her focus. Blushing a deep rose, she put her pale-skinned hand to her mouth. "Oh, I'm sorry," she muttered, "The Fawn's Tail. It's just up that hill. By the lake. Here, let me walk you." She turned around from the direction she had been walking in back from the path she came. Her blue dress matched her eyes and complimented her long blonde hair, which now draped to the small of her back as she walked in front of her new friend. "I really hadn't much to do tonight anyways." After a few steps she turns around and asks, "Well, aren't you coming?"

Unitus - The Fawn's Tail

At about the same time, two men similar in height and stature, both sporting black hair and a strong build arrive in front of a restaurant named The Fawn's Tail, as made evident by the maroon and gold sign above the door. The white cobblestone leads to two small wooden stairs up to two doors. Inside, as the first man enters, he sees a very fancy arrangement of tables, chairs, tapestry, many large windows, and people. On the far right wall, a bar is well-stocked with many glass bottles of both exotic and domestic liquors. A smiling man with long, bold white hair tends the bar. He wipes the dark mahogany counter with a damp cloth, talking avidly with his other hand to two people drinking. Around the room the dark brown wood is accented by a dark maroon. The rug, tablecloths, and napkins match the color worn by the bartender and many waiters patrolling the tables. The area is well-lit thanks to many windows and a fine candle at the center of each table.

The restaurant is busy tonight, as it is nearing dinner time in the city. The room, however, is not too loud. The patrons know to keep their voices down to maintain the tranquility. The people eat politely and delicately. Their plates are accompanied by fine steaks, green vegetables, or seared chicken. The smell of the meats fills the room. Almost everyone is drinking either a red or white wine. Those who aren't drink clear water, presumably from the lake nearby.

In the back of the room, the lightest section, is two large windows rising from the floor to the the height of the door between them. Outside is a porch area overlooking Lake Supreme. The sunset floods the scene with a brilliant pink and orange glow. Outside, a few more tables can be made out. No table outside is empty, by what can be seen from the doorway. The lake seems to stretch on behind the deck without end but the horizon.

As the door opens, a finely-dressed half-elf in the black and maroon uniform of the restaurant greets the two men. "Good evening, gentleman." He gives a short polite bow to his guests. "Welcome to The Fawn's Tail." He raises an arm and points it, palm outstretched, towards the room. "Shall I see you to a ta..." As he looks up at the men for the first time, his eyes squint and he is clearly displeased. "I'm sorry, gentlemen." His hand falls back to his side. "Here at The Fawn's Tail we have a dress code. We like to keep a bit of class about us, as this is what our fine patrons request in an establishment. If you like, I can direct you to... other establishments for you to dine." His facial expression would assume he is insulted the two men even approached his doorstep.

[GuyFawkes]

Young Man

Approaching the entrance, the young man noticed another man whose destination apparently was the same as his. He noticed the armor and weaponry he carried about, certainly not your typical patron of a fine establishment as Fawn's Tail. A warrior. Perhaps here for the job as well. Realizing this he quickly entered the door ahead of him. He needed this job.

As he entered, his senses were assaulted by the myriad aromas and colors. Meat and vegetables cooked in different dishes, and fine wine as well. And the adornment of the place, the fine tapestries and furniture, and a majestic view of the lake to top it all off. He then noticed the people, all dressed regally, members of high society no doubt. Ah, the pleasures of the rich and wealthy. I most certainly have no business in a place like this.

That thought was apparently shared by a half-elf who stood beside him, by the looks an employee, who pointed out his attire as inappropriate and suggesting he could direct him to another establishment, with a look on his face that seemed condescending. In his mind, he entertained the idea of his fist connecting with the half-elf's face, but he knew better and just smiled sarcastically and spoke, "I am well aware of that fact, thank you. However, I am here for a different matter. Business. I am looking for a man by the name of Jackson Aurellis. Is he here?"

[Hefty Lefty]

Unitus - The Fawn's Tail

The half-elf host raises an eyebrow. "You certainly don't appear to be dressed for business." He looks behind him. A waiter who had been tending near the front of the main dining area floats near the conversation. The host turns to him and puts his hand in front of his face to mask his own mouth. The second man in the doorway, the one yet to speak, hears a whisper. The whisper matches the harsh tone with which the half-elf has been speaking. The waiter promptly turns around and heads back into the dining room. "Very well," the host begins, "Our esteemed dining staff will determine if a Mr. Aurellis is dining with us tonight, and will decide if he wishes to have you accompany him." His slanted and exotic eyes widen. "Ah-ah!" He turns around and raises a finger. "Cortland, would you please?" The waiter returns to the entryway in a hurry. Silently, he nods at the host with inquiry. "I must ask of you two," the host faces his guests once again. "Who is Mr. Aurellis seeking to dine with tonight? Surely we must learn your names before he is to decide whether or not to dine with you." The host looks up at the two men, waiting to be impressed. "Hm?" The waiter looks on with a blank stare. In his right hand he supports two plates full of food and two glasses of wine, both red. The whole time, he has carried the tray above his head with a flat hand and perfect balance.

[GuyFawkes]

Young Man

"I care not for dining. I came here to fill in the job description he posted, and I assure you, I am pretty well-dressed for that kind of business," he motioned towards his armor and sheathed weapon, then looked the half-elf in the eyes, letting his last sentence ring before speaking further. "And tell him the name's Marcus."

[Hefty Lefty]

Unitus - The Fawn's Tail

The host's eyes raise in both shock and disgust. "Sir I assure you we do not partake in here the same matter of business you are making reference to. Patrons in The Fawn's Tail do business with the matters of finance and politics. Can you not see we are sensible and polite?" At this point a large man steps forward. He has a profound brow and small eyes so squinted one might believe he can't actually see out of them. His hair is straight and down to his shoulders. He wears the same garb as the waiter and host, but his clothes are clearly custom-made for his bulging build. At his side rests a silver scimitar. He towers above all three men in the doorway by at least a foot; his presence is nothing short of intimidating. "And sir, please, do not threaten this establishment with weapons. As you can see," with a cocky half-smile the host raises an arm to the burly man behind him, "Neilson here ensures the patrons protection from people like you." He slows his speech to emphasize each last word of his sentence. The young man in adventuring gear seems to have dug himself into a bit of a hole here at The Fawn's Tail.

[GuyFawkes]

Marcus

Again the young man's lips cracked into a smile, amused by the apparent intent of intimidation on the half-elf's part, then eyeing the man he called Neilson. Yes he was big, but he has seen larger foes in the pits of Era'dai. And all of them fell before him. "Yes, it is common sense that patrons here deal with those kinds of business as you said. That is why they need people like me to watch their behinds. That is why I am here. And you must be mistaken. I am not intimidating you, heavens no!" and he burst out a laugh. He just can't hold himself from what the situation has turned to. He had to take the situation under control, for he thought this might jeopardize his landing the job if he'd make a commotion. "I was merely implying my competence for the job. Mr. Aurellis is in need of an escort. Surely you've seen what escorts wear for business?" And if I did threaten you, I assure you and your little friend wouldn't be standing there right now, he would've liked to add, but knew better not to.

[Omeganaut]

Musician and Lady

"I would love to accompany such a lovely lady as yourself, indeed, I would count myself honored that you would find time to spend with me. Indeed, if you are truely kind enough to walk me there, the least you can do is have the pleasure of knowing my name. I am Amadeus Moses Wolfheart the third, and I am most pleased to have your company." Amadeus accompanies his introduction with a bow and a flourish, quite remarkable considering how he never broke stride.

As they walk, Amadeus continues to talk with the fine lady about all the wonderful things he has seen in his travels in this fine city, as well as during the time he spent with the elves. Of course, none of those beautiful sights could compare to seeing just the tip of her ear, a falled strand of her hair, or the merest glimpse of the trailing edge of her dress. He continues with a string of compliments until the pair reaches the door of the Fawn's Tail. He graciously asks the lady "While my meeting may involve tedious business-talk, I still feel that I must ask my lovely guide if she wants to have dinner. On me? Its the least I could do for taking my poor, lost soul to the location I sought." Based on the answer, Amadeus either walks with the young lady to the entrance, or bids her a fond farewell.

Amadeus walks up to the hosts stand, and gently nudges the unfortunate gentleman in the traveling gear out of his way. "Pardon me sir. Um, Excuse me monsieur, this is the Fawn's Tail, correct? I want to make sure I have selected the correct place and not a cheap imitator. I was wondering if my business associate Jackson Aurellis made it, as I wish to discuss his business proposition advertised in the town square. If he can meet, that would be excellent, if he is unable to meet, I would otherwise like a table of my own. Pardon my intrusion."He finishes looking back at the gentleman he nudged slightly out of the way.

[tonberryking]

Between the intrepid hothead and the stuffed shirt, Kodoz wonders for a moment if he'll need to leave the city post-haste anyway before the night is over. However it must be said that for the moment he sides with the establishment, appearing like a professional soldier at ease dealing within a superior's presence.

But eventually, he feels this has gone far enough and tries to intervene.

"Sir. I am Former Corporal Graesky, first class, with the Unitus Cavalry, 37th Division, Wotan Squadron. My apologies for barging in but I...we both seem to have business with a Mr. Aurellis concerning a business proposition." he shoots Marcus a glance. "I'm sure it will be brief on our parts."

[Hefty Lefty]

Unitus - The Fawn's Tail

Along the way up the cobblestone road, the young nods, enamored. The string of words seem to be never-ending, but this is all right as each one is equal parts interesting, pleasing, and beautiful. Her white heeled shoes make a loud clack with each step she takes. When she can get a word in, she makes known that her name is Clarissa. She has lived here in luxury her whole life as the daughter of a politician. She was peacefully shopping in quaint shops downtown when night began to fall. She stressed that, while her father would very much like her to be home, that she is a woman capable of making her own decisions and would love to spend the evening with Amadeus. When the couple finally reaches the doorway of the restuarant, the half-elf host, who has been stubborn all this time, quickly steps aside and bows. "Good evening," he begins, then brings his body back up to face them properly, "and welcome to The Fawn's Tail. I can assure you this is no cheap imitation! And yes, a Mr. Aurellis is indeed dining with us tonight. Cortland!" Without turning his head, the host beckons for the waiter who snaps to. "These people are to dine with Mr. Aurellis... just the two." His tone rebounds back to his condescending snare, as if he completely forgot the other two were in front of him. "Bring them to him."

The waiter quickly bows his head and leads them towards the back of the room. The dining area is busy, but the establishment is large enough that there is no shortage of space and the walkway is easy to maneuver. The waiter swings open the door leading to the deck. He dips his head again, and departs. Directly in front of the door is a man seated by himself at a table. He slowly sips from his glass of wine while looking over the horizon. His silver hair marks him as aged, but his fine blue ruffled coat with white trimmings shows that, like the fine wine he is drinking, he has aged well. The lakeside view is breath-taking. The orange and pink sky is radiant and glowing. The water is a dark blue. Along the side of the lake, there are a few more grandiose establishments with decks, some filled with people. The small lake waves lap upon moss covered rocks down below the deck, which extends a bit into the water. The gentleman's table is empty. Three chairs accompany the table, but they, too, are empty.

The host turns back to his first two men. "Do you see, gentlemen?" He folds his arms. "That is an example of who we serve. His exquisite clothes, his precise manners," his voice deepens and slows as he raises an eyebrow again, this time suavely, "the lady on his arm." He regains composure and continues. "I'm afraid you gentlemen are simply not the type we are here to serve. Good day." Just as he finishes, the second man speaks up. He claims to be a veteran of the Unitus guard. "Hm. Well, yes, we are always pleased to serve our protective forces here at The Fawn's Tail." The wind is taken out of the half-elf's sail as he begrudgingly accepts the fighter's request to enter. "If you must see your acquantice, I believe he is seated on the our waterside deck. But first, I must request that you, Mr. Marcus, you claim?" He spits the syllables to the name out of his mouth as if they were a bad food. "Mm. Yes. Well, I must request of you to unarm yourself here with Neilson. We here at The Fawn's Tail are not the fighting type, and you would gravely unnerve our fine guests with your blades and rash temper." The host motions to a table on the side of the doorway. "If you would."

[GuyFawkes]

Marcus

Infuriated by the difference in treatment, he held on to his weapons as if he intended to use it, but thinking he was out of line and this was indeed a place inappropriate for someone like himself, he proceeded to remove them from his person and handed them to Nielson, but not without staring the big man down.

"Handle them with care," was all he could say without bursting back into his angered tone. Then he again faced the half-elf and again smiled sarcastically and bowed, "My apologies for my behavior. On my word I shall do my best to behave myself as would be appropriate for such a fine establishment for the remainder of my stay," in his mind repeating over and over to calm himself down and think about landing the job.

As he walked towards the intended table, he leans towards the man walking beside him, and making sure the half-elf is out of earshot, whispered to him, "You have my gratitude. You saved me back there. If it weren't for you, something bad might have happened to those two. My temper--often gets the better of me. What did your say your name was again?"

[HempRope]

Male Dwarf

In the end, the dwarf is only a little late. Leaving the square, he had stopped two men who looked as if they were going home from work and asked if they knew "the Fawn's Tail," but learned nothing. Heading back to his temporary home, a boarding house called Longchamp, he asked a group of men outside another pub about the place, then a young couple, and finally a man hawking fruit. None of them knew the place. Getting a little worried the dwarf asked Longchamp's middle-aged owner, who raised his eyebrows respectfully.

"Naturally," he said. "Now that's a nice place. Some of the best food in Unitus there. It's maybe six blocks from here, down on the waterfront."

The dwarf was relieved a bit to hear that Aurellis wanted to meet at such an elegant place. No need to be ready to leave immediately -- at least, that wasn't likely. But he had still rushed upstairs; he changed into his dress robes and hurried back out the door, some purpose in his stride as he leaned into the breeze coming off the water. He would probably need to impress.

And so the dwarf is only a little late when he pauses to gather himself outside the Fawn's Tail. Shaking his wide head, he pushes the door open and steps inside the expensive room of maroon and white. It's a surprise to find a butler waiting for him. Talk about fancy.

"Good evenin', I'm lookin' for a Master Aurellis," the dwarf begins in Common, his accent pronounced but not problematic. "Jackson Aurellis? 'E should be here, per'aps with a large party..."

Spoiler

Show

Show him to the table or not as you'd like... sorry, I didn't expect to being RPing the way to Aurellis. Would have gotten more done in the first post.

[Hefty Lefty]

Unitus - The Fawn's Tail

Spoiler

Show

In the order of how they entered the restaurant, Amadeus will have about a minute to act before the other two approach. Then, the three of them will have about another minute until the dwarf arrives. For that reason, let's have Amadeus act first, then the two humans, then the dwarf.

[Omeganaut]

Private Room

Amadeus gives a kind nod to both the host and the bouncer while following the waiter further into the restaurant. He is sure to mention to his companion how he is once again delighted to have her company, as it outshines even these elegant surroundings. When he reaches the table, he is sure to thank the lovely waiter for his escort, telling him to take his and Clarissa's orders in about fifteen minutes. He then turns to the potential employer, but his eyes continue wandering around the room, periodically going back to the expanse of water. "Good evening, Jackson Aurellis I presume? I must say, this is a lovely view. You must be a profitable man to afford a private room. Oh, I apologize, where are my manners? This is Clarissa, who has seen fit to grace me with her angelic presence this evening. Clarissa, forgive me if I fail to give you the attention you deserve, but I must figure out a business agreement with Mr. Aurellis." Amadeus, after shaking Mr. Aurellis's hand, pulls a chair next to him at a comfortable distance apart.

"So, Mr. Aurellis, I saw your advertisement in the town square regarding your journey north. I was very intrigued by it, as I was interested in traveling to Bevroven to experience it's unique culture. Furthermore, as you are obviously a man of taste, I believe my musical abilities might make the trek a little less bland. I do have experience in traveling, as I have been all the way south to Sara Clara, west to Coremite, as well as many wanders across the Azure Plains. So, what terms are you prepared to offer?" Amadeus turns to look casually out at the water. He hears a melody begin to form in his head, but it turns into the well-known ballad The Riverlord's Daughter.

[Hefty Lefty]

Unitus - The Fawn's Tail

The man slowly turns to face his guest. The silver hair of the man drapes over his ears. One eye is covered with a black eye patch. The other, his left, is wrinkled and old. His chin sports a beard beginning to grow, the hair here is much more white than on his head. The man wears a thin golden headband around his hairline. He smiles and greets the singer. "Can you ask for a more beautiful picture?" He asks, half-gazing at the lake. The man then takes the young lady's hand and gives it a light, polite kiss. "Apparently you can." He sits back down and clears his throat. "I am Jackson Aurellis, and I own two large mines in the northern reaches in Bevorven. I see we have a similar destination, it would be unwise of us not to travel together." He takes a long, slow sip from his glass. He doesn't receive much of the red liquid, but he delicately tastes each drop. "Blackness Pass, from here, is about a week's journey. Hopefully we'll each have a horse and can cut a day or two. From there, we can journey through the mountains. That's the part I fear the most. Deep in those mountains..." Jackson Aurellis leans in towards the center of the table, "there are indeed mysteries. But I believe there are more that live in the mountains than just the dwarves." He holds there for a moment, his eye staring into those of Amadeus. After a few seconds, he leans back comfortably into his chair and again takes from his wine. "This is why I am requesting a travelling party. For my protection. I am confident I'll find someone of size and strength with a blade to accompany us as well." He takes a breath during a quiet lull in conversation. "As you can tell I am a man of good fortune. I promise you a hefty sack of gold for your accompaniment. And," his voice slows down once again, "if I do need the protection of you or any of the company members, well, I can assure you, I will spare no expense properly rewarding your efforts." During this conversation, Clarissa sits politely with her hands folded on her lap. She does not seem too intimidated by the dangers in the cave. She appears comfortable with the story. On the same token, she does not react strongly in any way to the large reward either.

[Omeganaut]

Private Room

Amadeus looks excited at the mention of a big bag of gold, but hides it quickly. [b]"Well, that is an offer that is rather hard to refuse. Just for the sake of having a set contract, how much gold is a bag's worth? I have found out that it is always better to set out specific payment ahead of time so that no-one is surprised. By the way, that is a lovely headband you're wearing. It really enhances your look."[b] Amadeus compliments. He pauses, wishing he had ordered some wine with the waiter earlier, but he knows that going back would make him seem indecisive in front of the lovely young woman, and after all there is not long to wait.

[Hefty Lefty]

The Fawn's Tail

Jackson raises his hand in the air and tosses it as he speaks. "Ah, exactly. I have five hundred gold pieces to share among the party for my accompaniment. If, however, it becomes necessary for me to be protected, I can see to add three thousand gold." He smiles as he offers the immense reward. "I hope this can influence you enough to travel with me?" Just then the door swings open again. This time, the waiter is followed by the two men seen earlier at the entryway. The waiter again bows silently and darts back into the dining room.

[Omeganaut]

Private Room

Amadeus gives a another quick look of delight before recovering his composure. Ah, yes. That would be delightful. Blessings fall upon your head for your agreeable business practices." Amadeus closes the deal with an elven blessing. He then turns to greet the newcomers. "Why hello there sirs. I am glad to see you managed to work out difficulties with the Host. Come and sit, for business is good!" Amadeus exclaims standing up. He carefully maneuvers his chair closer to Clarissa in a way that puts himself in between her and the newcomers.

[GuyFawkes]

Marcus

As he entered the room, he saw the smart mouth working his mouth again, this time with an old man with silver hair and an eye patch. This must be Jackson Aurellis. Then the saw the talkative man stand and turn towards them, offering them seats. Marcus nodded at the offer, but not to be bothered with sitting, went straight to the old man's side. "Mr. Aurellis? I read your notice on your need for an escort on your trip, and I am here to fill that position. Marcus, at your service," and he extended his hand to shake with the old man.

[Hefty Lefty]

Unitus - The Fawn's Tail

Jackson quickly reaches out and gives the hand a shake. He isn't very strong. "Ah, yes" he begins, pleased, "Take a seat, take a seat. I'm sure the two of you have read my letter know your way around a blade? Our trip should take less than ten days, if we are well-prepared for a journey, which I intend to be." He takes a short pause. "Do any of you have any qualms with leaving tomorrow morning?"

[GuyFawkes]

Marcus

He took the old man's hand and shook it, and noticed his shake lacked strength. He really does not escorts. The old man motioned for him to sit, and he obliged. He made mental note to do everything to please his potential benefactor. He already screwed enough for one day, he thought.

He listened as Mr. Aurellis talked about the details of the trip, and when asked about any qualms on leaving the next day, he quickly replied. "No problems here, Sir. I am ready anytime you want to leave."

[tonberryking]

His bow back with Eria, Kodoz hands over kukri and sword without a word, the well oiled leather sword belt wrapped into an easily loosed knot about the hilt. "No worries; I understand the need for appearance's sakes." he gives a lopsided grin before allowing himself to be led off, trying not to make any more of a scene than already lapsed.

"You call for a cavlary man?" he greets Jackson upon entry, coming in as the old man announces his intent to leave in the morning.

[Omeganaut]

Private Room

Amadeus begins beaming. Not because the deal has been struck, but because a waiter has come by with his wine order. Before the waiter gets to the table, Amadeus asks his new employer "Well, it sounds like business is concluded. While I would love to have what I'm sure would be a stimulating conversation, I feel i must show this fair lady a good time, as she has been patient with me so far. If you will excuse me, I'd like to find another table so I can devote the attention such a beauty deserves." Amadeus finishes

[Hefty Lefty]

Unitus - The Fawn's Tail

The old man at the table smiles and shakes the hand of the cavalryman. Again, it is frail. "Yes, yes, glad to see you." He sits down, "I am Jackson Aurellis, and these other two men here are accompanying me tomorrow in a journey to Bevorven. I assume you, too, are interested in the mission?"

Clarrisa looks up at Amadeus, shocked he is leaving the table. She opens her mouth slightly to begin to say something, but, remembering she is a lady, closes her mouth and gets up to follow Amadeus. She places keeps her hands down and closed together as she stands, and gives a small nod to farewell. Her cheeks are a bright pink, and seem to always be blushing.

"Good evening sir," the host cues his greeting for a third time, "and welcome to The Fawn's Tail." The half-elf is pleased to see the elegant and exotic robes of the northern dwarf. "Will you be dining alone tonight?" When the dwarf mentions that he, too, has business with a particular man, the host's eyebrow raises. "This man seems to be very busy indeed. Very well, please follow Cortland straight to the lakeside deck behind you." The waiter quickly ushers the dwarf towards the door, through the lavish decorations and extravagant people of the dining room. Just as the couple gets up to leave for the night, the door swings open and presents the dwarf.