TAG. The Adventurers Guild. IC

[Holy-hunter]

Background info

Spoiler: another nearby island

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Spoiler: History & Geography

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Starting town: GREENVILLE
North of Brance and inland, just west and below sky fell mountains, near the end of the river underneath the unnamed forest.

Spoiler: More Info & Map

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Greenville is a small settlement, so unimportant its not even on most maps. It gets very few travellers but has its fair share of problems.
Population: 60 to 80 (90% human)
Governor: Boroneur Caresh

Spoiler: Details

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	A portly old man who likes to show off his jewellery and wealth. Has two sons and a few mistresses that he thinks no one knows about. Not the greatest governor but neither does he seem to be the worst. A figure head for his advisors that do the work.

Guilds:

BRANCE

Spoiler:

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85% human pop
A Big bustling city. Not as grand or busy as the Capitol Mallaston, or as large as the remnants of Sandspire, but for most of those in it, it is the largest city they will ever see.
It is surrounded by big stone walls that reach high, protecting its citizens from the creatures of the night.
It holds a strong religious presence. Numerous guilds and great vast sections of poverty.
Dilapidated houses line streets that stink of sewerage and waste, beggars and orphans fill the alley ways between.
It is only the small gated and guarded communities that are free from such poorly sights.

RHAEGORA and the Elves

Spoiler: The Elven capitol.

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The elves near conquered the entire main-land near a millennia ago. Few remember or know that except for the elves. They pushed every evil creature to the far borders and the land flourished for some time.
Then they suddenly abandoned it, retreating to a small island where they built what is now known as Rhaegora.
They left little influence upon the land they once sowed and have become a mystery unto themselves.
They interact very little with the rest of the country, keeping to themselves mostly except for the warriors they send to Espladar to continue the fight against the creatures of the Underdark.

MALLASTON
The capitol. Dwarven influence. Massive.

SANDSPIRE
Ruins of a great city. Magical remains.

ESPLADAR
The most unified city. Law and chaos.
Multiple races, common enemy.
Defensive point agains the under dark.

Maps from https://freefantasymaps.org

[Holy-hunter]

Characters

Player	Character	Race	Class	Status
Pyrophilios	Lanius Collurio	Wood Elf	Rogue	Active
Estralita	Kara	Re-born	Warlock	New, Active
The Outsider	Elphas	Human (Variant)	Paladin	Died a hero
Ramsus	Aelia Smith	Human (Custom)	Artificer	Active
oaken	Lenna Tanglire	Wood Elf	Warlock	Disappeared
JNAProductions	Daisy	Agave	Druid	NPC

Spoiler: Known guild members

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Eisha: Recruit
Short female pickpocket from Brance
Dislikes Aelia

Corey: Recruit
Short hairy male drunkard from Brance
Likes: Alcohol, gambling.
_.

OOC | IC | Record book | Interest check | Discord

[Holy-hunter]

Intro

The time was suddenly upon you, it came with little notice, but it was here. You would finally be leaving Brance and travelling off to not only join, but help build and create the new adventurers guild. Beyond the great tall gates where you currently stood, a new life of adventures and opportunity awaited. Somewhere out there was your destiny just waiting to be seized.

——————————
Setting

The still nights warm air was filled with hope and excitement. Being the season of the sun, the days had grown hotter and more importantly for would-be travellers, longer.
A near full moon hung on the edge of an otherwise empty sky, cascading a soft pale light over the sleeping city of Brance. If anyone was awake, they were indoors, or skulking around silently in the shadows. Curfew would not rise for a couple more hours still, only lifting with the sun.

It was somewhat peaceful at this hour, being outdoors at this time was a thing many did not often experience. A dog howled in the distance. Some rats scurried along a decrepit alleyway. A nimble creature leapt across rooftops on padded feet. All whilst the soft crackling of many torches and lamps created a familiar comforting white noise.

While uncommon it was not unheard of that the shadowy creatures of the night would breach the great walls. If and when they did, they were easily deterred away from buildings and locations with light sources, instead seeking less fortunate and often poorer prey.

The rich used magic or hired ever burning torches, their building always brightly illuminated at night. Those moderately ok had lamps at every entrance and window. The poor were lucky if they had a torch, often huddling together around impromptu fires.

Brave Light guards marched the streets in groups, enforcing the curfew and illuminating every dark corner of the city, supposedly. (any who lived on the streets would know they often avoided the dark areas.)

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Event
One hour ago

In the wide empty clearing just inside the main gate, illuminated by the many crackling torches posted evenly along the long stretching stone wall, shadows danced over the men and women slowly gathering in near silence. As they arrived with backpacks on and possessions tucked under their arms, they loaded their things with a practiced and coordinated efficiency into the two large waiting carriages.

Atop the wall Light-guards patrolled back and forth, lanterns in hand. A little way into the city another patrol checked the papers of the arriving party members.

This is your destination but did you make it there...

Roll for random encounter or simply choose from encounter spoiler (2-3) or (4-5). Once you pick one path you cannot take the other.
Please join up with any other character on the same encounter as you.
For random encounter roll 1d6 +/-
-2 Squalid or worse Lifestyle
+0 Poor lifestyle
+2 modest or greater lifestyle

Spoiler: 0/-

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You traveled through the poorest parts of the town, you are forced to sift through dark shadows and pass by homeless people who could just as likely be dead as sleeping.
These alleyways are never visited by light guards. They are filled with the dregs, filth and rubbish of the city. The only people here are the desperate and the opportunists.

Turning down a particularly dangerous and tight alley roll a perception or insight dc14 to notice the ambush and intent of 1d4 thugs. They either hide amongst the rubbish, appear as a sleeping cripple, or perch delicately on a nearby frail roof.

Once this encounter is over, roll again but a 1d4 (no minus)

Spoiler: 1

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You don’t go far without the light of a houses torch being nearby. Maybe you had to cross a bit of farmland or an old abandoned vacant block.
A place Light guards don’t usually come unless feeling cruel. You pass a beggar or two. Before reaching the more secure districts you hear the deep sniffing of a dog, proceeded by a hungry growl. About 60ft away an angry mastiff has you in its sights.
If you run roll a d10-2 and end up in another encounter with it still chasing you.

Spoiler: 2-3

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You were happily on your way to the location, enjoying the light cast by the flickering flames stationed at each passing house when you hear a commotion from behind one of the buildings.
3 light guards (who have dulled their lights) set upon someone on the floor while one stands watch near the corner with two torches in hand.

Spoiler: 4-5

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You travel uninterrupted, guided by the lights of the passing houses. You are on the path to your destination when you hear the commotion caused by one of the other NPC’s. Go and investigate. (If you want.)

Spoiler: 6-7

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What fortune!? You stumble upon a small pouch in the middle of the road. Hmm, what to do now?

Spoiler: 8

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A charming tall man of importance and two accompanying light guards hail you to check your papers and offer to escort you to your destination. They are kind and cooperative with any questions.
Roll 2d3 (no plus or minus) for another encounter with the aid of your new friends.

[Pyrophilios]

Spoiler

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(1d6-2)[-1]

Lanius cursed inwardly for the hundred time. The voyage on the ship had been bad enough without a squad of Raven assassin's deciding the best time to attack him was during a storm. Hadn't it been for his finely honed senses and his inability to sleep with the creeking and groaning of the ship, he would have been dead. Instead he had stood a fighting chance. A slim one. A very slim one. And so he had dodged, danced and jumped to get away from the the three shadowy clad figures. And it would have worked - if he hadn't run out of ship eventually. Up on the prow he stood, forcing them to come at him one by one.
But of course, the Ravens fought dirty. Throwing a lit lantern to set him alight had backfired. Literally. A sudden gust of wind had thrown it off course and instead set the rigging on fire.
For some reason, ships where build of cloth, tar and wood, making it nearly impossible for the burning oil in the strong wind not to flare up like a fireball.
But even that might have been salvageable, hadn't the thrice damned Ravens also taken out the watch on duty. And all Lanius could do was feverishly defend himself as the fire spread.
The explosion came as a surprise to all of them.
Lanius found himself in the water, clinging desperately to the gallons figure of the late "Siren's Wail", like a particularly horny bard to his latest conquest.
He had no memories of what came after. When he woke up on dry land, his only clue to not being dead was that he hurt all over. His clothes were torn and wet sand threatened to scour away his white skin any time he moved.
Relying on his basic training he tried to determine where he was. Being on the east coast of the main continent was as far as he got. At random he decided to head south - and indeed, for once had been lucky. On the second day, dirty and hungry, Brance loomed on the horizon. If he could find the new guild, he might even be on time - provided he moved through the night, climbed the walls and in general followed the most desperate and dangerous course anyone could imagine.

[Pyrophilios]

Spoiler: roll

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Perception
(1d20)[13]+7

(1d4)[3] Thugs
(1d4)[3] encounter

While moving through the shadows, Lanius felt somehow better again. Like back when he was with his unit and they had moved swiftly and silently through the battlefield. And so he had no trouble to spot the clumsy set up ambush of the three hoodlums. Desperate creatures - not unlike himself.
He still had two of his daggers and was ready for a fight...

In retrospect, Lanius had to admit he could have avoided the fight. It would have meant taking a detour and maybe missing the caravan, but still: He didn't have to kill them. But he wanted to fight.
And so, the ambushers were quite surprised when suddenly there was an equally shadowy figure among them, ramming a dagger into the windpipe of the first man. Their reactions were slow, oh so slow and Lanius was able to slash the second man's artery, just inside his armpit, before dragging his second dagger across the man's eyes. The bandit stumbled backward, not knowing that he was already dead as his life quickly pulsed out of him in a fine spray. Steel rang out as the remaining bandit managed to draw his saber and lunge in an ugly cut. Lanius recognized the movement subconsciously as the same he had learned in his first few days of basic. But it seemed as if this gentleman hadn't gotten to any of the other lessons. Because as Lanius deflected and counter attacked, the man knew only to quickly step back, avoiding the main thrust but failed to see the second dagger coming which left a firey trail down the man's left arm as he instinctively tried to keep the weapon away from his face. The counter attack showed that the man really only knew the one move and again Lanius deflected it, before cutting the man across the right wrist.
That was enough. The bandit threw his weapon at Lanius and ran. For a moment, Lanius was tempted to pursue the man. But the gear lying around was much more interesting. He dismissed the ratty old sabre, but the military rapier and shortbow looked appealing enough. Even the leather armor of the second one fit him well enough. And yes, even a few rations were in the old backpack. Taking a moment to wolf down an apple and some jerky, Lanius felt better than he had in a long while. As the adrenaline ebbed away, he felt tired again and was aware in how much danger he still was. Stowing his new possessions, he silently went on his way again.
A corner later, he saw a light patrol - they had set down their lanterns and were apparently working someone over. A glance told him that it was the escaped bandit.
"Out of the fire into the frying pan." He whispered to himself. With the patrol occupied otherwise, Lanius had no trouble crossing the street to reach his appointment in time...

[JNAProductions]

Daisy walks quickly-well, for her, at least. Her head is held high, and she looks around at the new town-it's different from her home. She makes a mental note to find a good patch of dirt to start a garden in, but focuses on her current goal more than anything else.

In her concentration, she doesn't really notice much besides where she's going-it's a big new opportunity, after all, and it deserves her focus.

As she walks, she bumps into a group of Light Guards. Oh! Sorry! she says as she picks herself up, grabbing her walking stick. I was just in thought... she says by way of excuse.

[The Outsider]

"Praise unto Lathander, who guides our way through the darkness if the world..."
Elphas ruminates on his situation as he strides through the city. His eyes flit from building to building, alley to alley, his reflexes still honed from years of necessity. Between the shadows and the shady, one can never be too careful.
"Praise unto Xelenos, whose hands will heal the world's wounds and make whole our souls..."
He mutters his prayers to himself, just as he has been taught. Father Iandoth had worried for him, bless his heart, but Elphas knew both the streets and his faith. He would not be harmed this night.
"Let the light of the morning shine through me and open my heart to the miracles of Xelenos..."
Though perhaps he was right to worry. This night was decided, but what of the next? He was a street urchin turned temple attendant turned novice miracle worker. Could he really expect to make a living adventuring? The dangers of the street were one thing, but to fight monsters? He had always run from the shadows unless he had no choice. Was he truly good enough to-
A commotion interrupts his thoughts as he flits from lantern to lantern. He turns a corner to investigate, and sees... a young girl? Why is she green? Examining further, he sees that she appears to be apologizing to a couple guards, while an unconscious man lies between them. His gaze hardens. Young, odd, and bothering the guards at night when they were already twitchy. This could get ugly. "Praise be," he mutters with finality, and strides over to the group of them.

[Ramsus]

Aelia Smith Human Artificer AC: 18 HP: 24/24 PP: 11 PIv: 16 PIs: 11 Conditions: -- Concentration: -- Aelia was no stranger to early mornings. Or late nights. Or late mornings for that matter. It was easy to lose oneself in one's work or in a book. It was just as easy to be awoken by one's rambunctious siblings whether you were well rested or not, she thought to herself with a smile. She'd miss her family dearly, but she also couldn't miss this opportunity to see the world. Armed, armored, and equipped with as much preparation as she could manage she'd set out after saying her farewells to her family and taking a few fresh baked baguette her mother thrust upon her as she was heading out the door. She was already enjoying one, nothing quite compares to fresh out of the oven bread, when she came across two light guards and another fellow. After showing them her paperwork, she offered them a baguette. She explained she was on her way to join the Adventurer's Guild caravan and then asked, "I wonder, what brings you out at such an early hour sir?" Spoiler Show Encounter: (2d3)[2]

[Holy-hunter]

Reply

LightGuards
The light guards of Brance wear a distinguishable uniform. The first thing noticeable beyond the bright light they always carry is their shiny polished steel kettle helmet. Spines run along its brim to appear like sun rays and a special polish adds to the effect by causing a yellow hue to reflect in the right light.
A little lower down they wear a decorated gilt-brass gorget that sits functionally around their throat and in it holds their guild badge. On a silver disk sits the engraved white marble stone emblem of a four pointed star with a small gem in the middle. Lastly a clean white surcoat hangs loosely over their personal attire and light armour.

Knowledge check

Spoiler: 0-10

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The light guards are one of the biggest guilds with members in nearly every city and town.
Their mission is to defend the people from the shadow creatures.
They sleep during the day so they can stay vigilant all night.

Spoiler: 10-15

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Light guards come from various churches and religions.
Becoming a light guard requires personal sacrifices.
They are a holy Guild blessed by both the king and the church to use magic.
Apparently all members can use a little magic.
They are technically not guards and have no jurisdiction during the day.
The main guild is in the capital.
There are many different ranks within the guild.

Spoiler: 15-20

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Light guards have a secret elixir that hones their senses at night and keeps them awake and sharp.
The guild makes a pretty coin for their services.
All of the guilds have to report often and are closely monitored by their own order.
They have a strict hierarchy.

Spoiler: 20+

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The Light guards were founded by elves shortly after most left the mainland.

Spoiler: Daisy

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Daisy walks quickly-well, for her, at least. Her head is held high, and she looks around at the new town-it's different from her home. She makes a mental note to find a good patch of dirt to start a garden in, but focuses on her current goal more than anything else.

In her concentration, she doesn't really notice much besides where she's going-it's a big new opportunity, after all, and it deserves her focus.

As she walks, she bumps into a group of Light Guards. Oh! Sorry! she says as she picks herself up, grabbing her walking stick. I was just in thought... she says by way of excuse.

Spoiler: Lathander

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"Praise unto Lathander, who guides our way through the darkness if the world..."

Spoiler: Lathander

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Elphas ruminates on his situation as he strides through the city. His eyes flit from building to building, alley to alley, his teflexes still honed from years of necessity. Between the shadows and the shady, one can never be too careful.
"Praise unto Xelenos, whose hands will heal the world's wounds and make whole our souls..."
He mutters his prayers to himself, just as he has been taught. Father Iandoth had worried for him, bless his heart, but Elphas knew both the streets and his faith. He would not be harmed this night.
"Let the light if the morning shine through me and open my heart to the miracles of Xelenos..."
Though perhaps he was right to worry. This night was decided, but what of the next? He was a street urchin turned temple attendant turned novice miracle worker. Could he really expect to make a living adventuring? The dangers of the street were one thing, but to fight monsters? He had always run from the shadows unless he had no choice. Was he truly good enough to-
A commotion interrupts his thoughts as he flits from lantern to lantern. He turns a corner to investigate, and sees... a young girl? Why is she green? Examining further, he sees that she appears to be apologizing to a couple guards, while an unconscious man lies between them. His gaze hardens. Young, odd, and bothering the guards at night when they were already twitchy. This could get ugly. "Praise be," he mutters with finality, and strides over to the group of them.

“Praise be.” the light guard replies in a gruff voice with a nod of his head as he subtly grabs the plant girls shoulder.
“Everything is under control here, carry on.” he ordered, holding up his bright lantern before his face, hiding his features behind the bright blinding light.
The man on the floor moaned but said nothing. One guard remained watching him while the other came up behind his friend. One hand holding a lantern eye height, the other clasping the club on his belt.

Spoiler: Aelia

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Aelia Smith Human Artificer AC: 18 HP: 24/24 PP: 11 PIv: 16 PIs: 11 Conditions: -- Concentration: -- Aelia was no stranger to early mornings. Or late nights. Or late mornings for that matter. It was easy to lose oneself in one's work or in a book. It was just as easy to be awoken by one's rambunctious siblings whether you were well rested or not, she thought to herself with a smile. She'd miss her family dearly, but she also couldn't miss this opportunity to see the world. Armed, armored, and equipped with as much preparation as she could manage she'd set out after saying her farewells to her family and taking a few fresh baked baguette her mother thrust upon her as she was heading out the door. She was already enjoying one, nothing quite compares to fresh out of the oven bread, when she came across two light guards and another fellow. After showing them her paperwork, she offered them a baguette. She explained she was on her way to join the Adventurer's Guild caravan and then asked, "I wonder, what brings you out at such an early hour sir?" Spoiler Show Encounter: [roll0]

The tall man gave the young woman a charming smile. He was human and appeared to be in his late forties, he had a slight rugged appearance that he wore well. He spoke eloquently and his clothes were neat and tidy.
”Why, I am here to escort you of course. M’lady.”
He gratefully took the bread and began leading the way.

The light guards with him were simple standard Brance light guards and said little as they walked beside them illuminating the way with their lanterns and occasionally pausing to fearlessly peer into the shadows.

”You could have a nice life here, why throw that all away? Adventuring is a dangerous business.” he speaks as he walks, seemingly enjoy the walk as much as he enjoyed the still warm fresh baguette.

[JNAProductions]

Daisy continues on her way, a bit shook at her experience with the guards. She mutters Not very friendly, for what they're supposed to be doing... to herself.

She arrives where the caravans are being loaded, her staff click-clacking on the pavement. She looks around at the various folk doing their jobs, and tries to find one who has authority, or at least isn't too busy to talk. When she does, she introduces herself. Hello! I am Daisy MacDougall-I'm here for the Adventurers' Guild, she says. I've got a note from Clarissa, my mother, she adds, fishing the note out of her pack.

Spoiler: The Note

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In Common...
To those of the newfound Adventurers' Guild...

This is my daughter, Daisy. She has experience in the magical arts, of the Druidic tradition. She is still inexperienced in the field of battle, but she will learn quickly, and she has a strong drive to help others. She will do well.

-Clarissa MacDougall

In Gnomish, On The Back
I love you, Daisy. Stay safe-and do me proud.

The man looks at the note. He reaches out for it, but Daisy holds onto it, just letting him read it from her hand. He sighs, bending down to get a clearer look. "Right," he says, "find a spot with your stuff. We're still loading the caravans, but this will be leaving for the guildhall soon."

Daisy nods and casts her gaze to the caravan. She finds a good spot to set herself down on, but doesn't take a seat yet. She heads to a patch of upturned cobble, where something fell or the pavement was disturbed in another way, and she plants her shoeless feet on them. Roots dig down, just a bit, and she waits there for the rest of the arrivals.

[The Outsider]

Elphas relaxes slightly as he sees the young girl leave, and moves to do the same. Thankfully, she had been dealing with the less corrupt members of the Light Guard, ones who hadn't let their fancy elixir overtake their senses. He knew from experience that the watch could be... less than helpful at times. Especially at night. He idly wonders what the other man had done to deserve the beating they had given him, then shakes his head. Tonight, he has places to be. A simple prayer for the man's soul will have to suffice.
=================
Upon reaching the loading site, he introduces himself on behalf of the Temple of Xelenos. After receiving his instructions, he sets his things down, idly examining the other members of the caravan. His eyes widen in surprise as he sees the small green girl who had scurried off ahead of him standing among the cobblestones. He makes his way over to her and strikes up a conversation. "Hello there. Are you... here for the Adventurer's Guild caravan as well?" he asks, a slight note of incredulity in his voice.

[Pyrophilios]

Lanius had recovered somewhat. The caravan master had looked at him pretty askew when Lanius had told him, he had lost his papers during a shipwreck. But his name had been on his list - and the little bit of magic, his mother had taught him, had made sure, that he was clean and presentable. He was still munching on a bit of jerky when a few other travellers arrived.
Lanius had to look twice when he saw the little plant creature. His curiousity piqued and nothing better to do, he sauntered over to her.
"Greetings. Are you here to say farewell to someone, or are you going with us on this journey?"
He asked, trying to sound friendly, but as usual failed, talking more like an inquisitor.
Trying to lessen the unfortunate impression he said: "My name is Lanius Collurio. Formerly of the 23rd Falcon Pack and now on my way to become an intrepid adventurer."
Even before she could answer, another traveller appeared with much the same question. Lanius nodded to him and tried for a smile that didn't look like he was barring his teeth.

[JNAProductions]

Hm? Oh, yes! Daisy replies to both the newcomers. She turns to face them without lifting her feet, and continues, saying I left home to experience more of the world. I grew up in the capitol, and I've actually been part of the Tinkers' Guild for most of my life. I sold a lot of my little knick-knacks... Well, the ones mom didn't want to keep, you know-in order to help pay for passage here, and gear. But I think this is a great chance! We can all help make the world a better place. She finishes her words with a smile on her face, bright and naive. You know, actually, I didn't introduce myself!

She bends down, dropping two seeds, and whispers to the tufts of grass at her feet. In mere moments, first one, then a second white flower, with a bright yellow center, sprout. She plucks them, and hands one to each of the men around her. I'm Daisy. Daisy MacDougall! she says, finally, by way of introduction.

So, Mr. Collurio, she asks, what is the "Falcon Pack"? And why are there twenty-three of them?

Spoiler: OOC

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Casting Druidcraft twice, to get the flowers all a-blooming.

[Holy-hunter]

What at first appeared to be a short stout man in fine armour, soon revealed himself to be a beardless dwarf. He, like the few regular town guards that he commanded over, seemed displeased about being awake so early. Daisy might recognise him from her arrival just the other day. They, like the light guards, were here to ensure a safe departure for everyone and make sure everything was above-board.

He gave Daisy a quick nod of acknowledgement as he approached the trio, even if she didn’t remember him, he sure noticed an Agave enter his city. “Keep it down.” he hushly scowled at them in a stern whisper. “You don’t want to attract any unwanted attention now!”
Then he added, “The falcon pacts are units of brave and daring elves who leave the safety of their homelands to fight on the front lines at deadfall mountains. Keeping the creatures of the underdark at bay. The most honourable thing any of them have done since fleeing the shadowlands. (Elven name for mainland) There’s twenty five because they’ve been fighting the good fight for a long time. ” answering Daisy’s question on behalf of Lanius in a whisper before adding his own. “So elf, why do you flee your duty? You can’t get much further away from it than where you are going? What did you do?” he asks eying Lanius suspiciously.

[Pyrophilios]

"I served my tour of duty - until two months ago, actually. Ironically, it was my visit in Raegorath for R&R that brought my career as a Falcon scout to an end. There were some that lacked the proper respect for the men and women serving in that fight. I duelled them. Unfortunately, one of them was particularly well connected. The repercussions made it necessary for me to look for an alternative career. My hope is, that joining a new guild will gain me enough prestige and influence to once again be able rejoin my brothers and sisters in the field. Also, it hopefully helps to be that far away to avoid the assassins.
Now you know. And be advised: I tell you this not because I have to defend myself, but because you serve your nation and deserve my respect. I expect the same from you."
Lanius whisper had been harsh at the end, but now his voice returned to a calmer murmur as he turned towards the armored human:
"May I presume that you are warrior of an order? You joining a guild surprises me - are you looking for riches or for glory?"

[The Outsider]

Elphas's eyes widen slightly in surprise, first at the conjured daisy and then at Lanius's words.. "Oh, I'm no warrior. The armor and weapons may look impressive, but I have sworn to use them only in self-defense. By the grace of Xelenos, I am a shield for others and a healer of their pain. And I seek neither riches or glory, but to spread her divine guidance to those who need it." A small smile plays across his face as he adds "Though I certainly won't say no to a good payoff." The smile fades as he realizes something."Oh goodness me, I haven't introduced myself either! I am Elphas, Chosen of Xelenos. It's good to meet the both of you." He turns back toward Daisy. "Say, how did you make this flower grow? Is it magic inherent to your being, or did someone teach it to you?"

[JNAProductions]

Little of A, little of B, she replies. I've had a knack for making things grow my whole life, but it wasn't until I started training with actual Druids that I really focused on it and got proficient. I've got some other tricks as well-I can chill people, with that being my main method of self-defense, and I can empower others with magic, if only a bit.

Spoiler: OOC

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Druidcraft is a racial spell. Frostbite and Guidance are learned spells. But I'm just kinda rolling them all into a whole package.

She continues, saying I've got a handful of more potent spells, but those take a lot of me. She turns then to face Lanius, and says I'm sorry you faced such an end to your duty-I'm sure you're a good man, and you deserved better than that. But who knows-maybe with the Guild, you can show them how wrong they were.

As they all talk, Daisy closes her eyes for a moment, and the dirt beneath her moves a bit. She lifts her leg, shaking the dirt off her feet, and steps back onto the cobbled pavement.

[Pyrophilios]

Lanius replied to Elphas: "Self defense... Yes. But you know what the best defense is? A very, very strong and decisive offense. I appreciate your conviction. Defenders are needed too. But no fight is won through defense alone. I'm looking forward to going into the field with you."
He listened to the exchange and answered Daisy:
"Sometimes I think all the good men died already and only the bastards have been left alive. For what it is worth: I'll do my best with the talents that I've been given for my comrades in arms.
Speaking of which." With a quick word and gesture, a small shower of sparks appeared in his open palm.
"I'm not a scholar, but I've got a few tricks up my sleeve. My mates always commended my ability to flavor our rations."

[Holy-hunter]

The beardless dwarf followed the conversation intently for a moment then sighed in resignation before chuckling in a way only dwarves could.
“Aye, well I’m just here to make sure you all leave safely and nothing gets in behind ya’s. Captains gotta be ‘ere to open the gates after all, specially if it’s before the suns up. It’s gonna be a few hours till light still, I hope you all know what your doing.”
He shakes his head as he walks away, seemingly amused with the idea of leaving to join a guild. In no time he’s back to directing the town guards about in near silence.

roll perception

A new face quickly replaced the dwarf captain’s, a thin frail young woman with disheveled dark hair and a freckled round face. She was dressed in simple attire, layered loose clothing. She had dark eyes that scanned everyone as she talked.
“I’m Eisha.” she said quickly.
“I’m joining for the riches and glory, and the gold, n money.” she added, not realising her single minded repetition.
“Reckon we’ll become rich?” she asked.
Her excitement turns to bemusement as she curiously pokes daisy.

[Pyrophilios]

Spoiler

Show

Perception
(1d20)[20]+7

Lanius nodded toward the dwarf: "Aye, so do I."
To the other newcomer he said: "Money doesn't make you happy - but it's quite comforting to have."

[Ramsus]

Aelia Smith Human Artificer AC: 18 HP: 24/24 PP: 11 PIv: 16 PIs: 11 Conditions: -- Concentration: -- Aelia raises an eyebrow at the Light Guard's question. Clearly he wasn't one of the many people in the city who already knew about her by reputation (or more accurately phrased, rumor). She points at her eyes and replies, "Well, my prospects aren't quite what they might be here. And I really want to see what's out there with my own eyes." she gives the guard a wink at the wordplay. Aelia had arrived a little earlier, hearing people talk, but the light guards had escorted her to the other side of the caravan from them and offered to help her stow her things, so she wasn't able to join in as early as she liked. By the time she walked over, after saying farewell to her nice escort, all she'd managed to catch was "My mates always commended my ability to flavor our rations." "Do you cook as well then sir?" she asks Lanius in a friendly tone as she steps up to join the conversation, only for another young woman did as well. "Your goal is money? Not exactly the most noble or exciting of goals, but at least you're honest about it. I can't say I'd mind making some myself-" at which point she notices Daisy (because Eisha is poking her) and says with some excitement, "Oh an Agave! I've never seen one of your kind before. I didn't know we had any in the city?" she trails off a bit confused how she could have missed such an interesting being to study so close to home. (Completely disregarding the fact that it's not like she had any habit of touring the entire city or personally engaging with the rumor mill for fear of winding up with more rumors about herself flowing around.) As the tilts her head in her perplexity she finally spots Elphas and gives him a little wave in greeting, even though they're standing only a few feet from each other. Spoiler Show Perception: (1d20+1)[21] Noticing Eisha's quick fingers, she whispers to her, "I would advise returning that to the dwarf and apologizing. Stealing from your guildmates isn't a very good way to make money if you want to wind up keeping it."

[Holy-hunter]

Eisha rolled her eyes at everyone’s speeches on greed and wealth, then snapped at Aelia with a sharp whisper. “Return what?” she says acting surprised, planting a little bit of anger and confusion into her voice. It was a good act but she saw the conviction in Aelia’s eyes and new it to be a pointless battle.

“He ain’t one of our guild, just an over paid guard, dats all. He woulda never missed it. Just a little parting gift for us all.”

Disgust filled the short young woman’s face as she placed the silver necklace into Aelia’s hand.
“ere, you have it. Probably not as nice as the ones you got at home anyway. Was gonna use it to buy us all drinks but do with it as you will your highness.”

She took a mocking bow as she backed away. Somewhere in that bow she had drawn her dagger. The sharp blade flashed in the moonlight as it spun around in her hand. Then she was gone, having jumped into one of the caravans.

Meanwhile nearby, at the back of the other caravan, a struggled grunting could be heard coming from an old man trying to lift a large chest. His efforts were in vain but his wiry limbs and thin knotted muscles carried on trying. No one offered him help, instead keeping a wide berth around him.

[oaken]

Spoiler: OOC

Show

I will transcribe Lenna's parallel encounter until the meets with the group here to the forums. Also shameless copying Ramsus' posting markup. Thank you .

Meanwhile, away from Greenville...

Spoiler: IC

Show

You know it was betrayal, you just don’t know by whom or why. The image of that shining blood stained blade protruding from you is forever engraved into your mind's eye. It will haunt you, probably forever.

The sun was up high, its heat pouring down over the hilly plains where you now stood. In the vast middle of nowhere. Skyfell mountains could be seen to the north, an equal distance away was Brance down south.
You were not near the sea like you imagined to be, instead nearer Red Rock mountains than you had ever been. How you got here was still a complete mystery. Days away from anywhere.

Lucky for you, you were in a small patch of light forest that grew up around a long forgotten natural well, in the steep between two rolling hills. Here you had dirty water and light shade, and of course your first kill with the mysterious weapon.

Lenna Tanglírë Wood Elf Warlock AC: 13 HP: 21/21 PP: 12 PIv: 10 PIs: 12 Conditions: -- Concentration: -- The kill had come as an instinct. Lenna heard a sudden sound across from the well, and as if she were in trance, her hands reached for an arrow she didn't even know she had, pulled the arrow against the bowstring, and let it loose without the blink of an eye. The bowstring rattled, its sound like musical notes that brought to her a sense of nostalgia. Lenna finally became fully self-aware when she heard the animal's cry, and the sound of its body crashing the ground. She held the bow in front of her and examined it in disbelief. The bow was made of bones and had sharp antlers in the edges, it was no ordinary weapon. As she examined the bow, her thoughts went back to her family. A bow was the weapon of choice of many of the elves she remembered seeing in the streets of Rhaegora, as a child. Her father himself used one. "Was that my father's voice? That can't be, it must have been some kind of hallucination... but then... how did I end up here?" Her thoughts were still fuzzy, but she clearly remembered the sharp pain on her back and the sight of the blade in her chest before it all went dark. She wished that she could forget that moment and that feeling, that it could all just fade away, together with whatever had happened right after. "I wonder what happened to the rest of the group, if Umbero is safe...", she tried to remember details about the blade that had stabbed her, but all blades look the same if you can only see the sharp end. One would think the attack likely came from guards protecting the manor, but she couldn't shake the feeling that it must have been an ambush, an inside job. The group seemed divided of late, and the silent animosity between Umbero and Faila grew more palpable by the day. She couldn't risk going back now, and even if she could, why would she? The outlaws had taken her as hostage after all. But her thoughts betrayed her: Umbero had cared for her, and he deserved help if he were in danger. Still divided, she looked around, as if trying to escape her thoughts, and saw her travel pack laying on the ground a few feet away from her. She walked towards it and, as she moved her arm to reach for the pack, she felt an eerie sensation on her hand. Lenna glanced at her fingers and had the impression that a purple glow flickered around her hand for just a fraction of a second. The elf turned her face up and immediately jumped back, startled. An ethereal floating hand held her pack in the air in front of her, as if offering it for her to take. And just like that she had made her mind: she could not go back. She'd be grateful If her path crossed with Umbero again, but whatever was happening here, it was committed to fully draw her attention, and she needed to know what it was, and what it wanted from her, even if she didn't quite know where to start.

[Pyrophilios]

"I can cook - but not beyond the basics. My flavoring is meerly an illusion, albeit a handy one. Can't take too much mustard with you on campaign, but making a piece of flatbread taste like meatpie usually boosts moral quite a bit. It saved - maybe not our lives, but our sanity - while our squad was under siege and couldn't be relieved for three weeks. All we had was this Alchemy Jug and it was stuck on mayonnaise. That were bad weeks I tell you, but they would have been worse if it would have tasted like mayo as well. At least we had something to lubricate the walls and prevent those spiderclimbing bastards to get to us.
Sorry, I didn't catch your name. This is Daisy, Elphas and I am Lanius."

A frown appeared on his face as he saw the little sneak steal from a fellow soldier. But even before he could say anything, the newcomer had laid down the law. Definitely had to keep an eye on that one. Nothing destroyed moral as thoroughly as one mate stealing from the other. He wanted to say something, but noticed the man struggling with his load.
"One second."
He stepped away and without a further word, put his strength to that of the old man, helping him to heave the load in place.
As if nothing had happened he returned to the conversation.
"If you don't mind I'll bring back the stolen necklace."

[JNAProductions]

Daisy seems a little uncomfortable at the newcomer-the poking first, and then the theft put her on edge. But she smiles at her anyway, and says Yes, introductions are in order. What can we call you?

The caravan seems mostly loaded, so Daisy looks for a good spot to take a seat. She tries to find an area open enough for at least one other person to sit with her, and manages to find one-though it'll be a bit cramped. Anyone want to join me for the ride? Be nice to talk to someone for the trip, and besides, we should really be getting to know one another, since we're to be working together.

[oaken]

Meanwhile, away from Greenville...

Spoiler: IC

Show

Lenna Tanglírë Wood Elf Warlock AC: 13 HP: 21/21 PP: 12 PIv: 10 PIs: 12 Conditions: -- Concentration: -- Perception: (1d20)[7]+2 Survival: (1d20)[9] The slaughtered moose was drinking from the natural well when it was shot down, its carcass laying right next to the water. And now it looks like another creature is also interested in your catch. When you go over to retrieve the fallen deer, you see a weasel tugging on the leg with its viscous sharp teeth. Lenna had killed the moose in a moment of pure adrenaline and sense of danger, startled by the animal's movement in the corner of her eye, but now she realized how hungry she really was. She didn't know exactly where she was, and even less about where exactly to go, but she knew that she'd need as much food as she could carry. Moose meat sounded like a luxurious delicacy compared to the leftovers she had been fed in the past years. As Lenna approached the moose's carcass, the elf noticed the weasel, desperate for the meat. "Hey buddy... I'd wager there's enough meat here for both us to share ya? Let me help you..." Lenna calmly whispered as she slowly and carefully closed in on the animal. Her hand lightly placed on the grip of one of her daggers, which she hoped she would have to use for no more than cutting moose meat. Kneeling beside the cool shimmering water with your focus on the beast, you hear a faint whisper of a shout and notice movement in the corner of your eye. Your reflection in the pool was not obeying your actions but instead held out the bow and was firing in the direction behind you/itself. Lenna squinted at her reflection, and as its arrow tensioned its bowstring, her eyes widened, and she quickly stood up, her hands instinctively and rapidly reaching for her bow and an arrow as she turned around. Just in time to see the giant weasel approaching! It’s the size of a big dog but perhaps a bit longer. Initiative: (1d20)[19]+2 As she turned around, Lenna saw the giant weasel growling and drooling, inching towards her, as if it were claiming the hunt prize for itself. Her eyelids twitched unsurely, she was alone and in immediate danger for the first time since she had been taken by the bandits. Her fight or flight instinct was kicking in as she readied the arrow. That’s when she heard a ghostly voice whisper in her ear “it’s okay”. And as if touched by a spell, she suddenly became calm. Her hand surely placed the arrow back in the quiver, and her fingers danced as her hand quickly moved towards the pouch that hung from her belt. She felt as if she were a mere spectator watching her own body in motion. The elf's green eyes now glowed with a fierce shade of purple, and out of nowhere the booming roar of a huge beast came from behind her and towards the weasel, threatening the animal to back away. The loud noise startled Lenna, but her body didn't move at all, her feet firmly planted on the ground, and her eyes glowing deep as she intensely stared at the creature. The giant weasel was definitely startled, it frantically looks around for the source but was unwilling to give up its prey so quick and easy. Lenna picked up an arrow, and with impressive ability, she readied and fired at the giant weasel. The ghostly voice whispered again in Lenna's ear "watch and learn". Attack roll: (1d20)[15]+5 Damage: (1d8)[6]+3 As you fired, The little weasel at your feet, bit into your ankle (1 piercing damage) before quickly vanishing off into the shrubbery. The arrow you shot struck the giant weasel true and sunk deep into its fur before it could attack. Blood trickled from the wound and it staggered, the voice in your head instructed you how to finish it off.

[Holy-hunter]

The large carriages only had a rear entry with two long benches down either side. They could seat 6 comfortably and stretch to 8 with cramped conditions.
More importantly each bench doubled as a bed and had a hammock above it, making it capable of sleeping four (or 5 if you use the foot room/floor)
Outside there were two seats up front and one on the roof.
One carriage had parts coloured blue while the other green.
2 large and strong looking horses stood before each carriage while another watched uninterested from nearby.

In the blue carriage was the frail old man who had struggled loading his gear. Next to him was a younger but still aged bald man with dark olive skin and tattoos darting over his exposed torso. He had a deep focus painted across his face and never looked up from his meditation.
DC 15 perception check from outside
Dc 10 perception check from inside
To notice his guild badge attached to his belt.

In the red carriage sat Eisha, talking to a light guard who was packing supplies away into every nook and cranny cleverly available.

”Pick your carriage, it’s neatly time to move.”
One of the wandering light guards announces.

((When you are ready. Just making it available.))

[The Outsider]

Elphas shakes his head when he sees Eisha stealing from the guard, and makes a mental note to keep an eye on his belongings while she's around. "I'll gladly join you," he says to Daisy, looking forward to learning more about the... Agave? Is that what the young lady had called her? Speaking of, he'd been a bit distracted when she arrived. He takes a look at the newcomer, finally noticing her waving, and his eyes widen in recognition. "Oh, Aelia! Hello there! Are you bringing your smithing knowledge to the new Guild as well?" He smiles knowingly. "That certainly explains why you helped me with this armor for such a low price. Thank you again for that, by the way."

[Ramsus]

Aelia Smith Human Artificer AC: 18 HP: 24/24 PP: 11 PIv: 16 PIs: 11 Conditions: -- Concentration: -- "Nice to see you again Elphas." she replies with a smile. "Among my other valuable skills like actual cooking it appears, yes." she gives a little chuckle. "Yes, you figured it out. It helps me as much as it helps you for you to be properly equipped." To the others she says, "Oh, my apologies. My name is Aelia Smith. It's a pleasure to meet you all. I would love to study-" at this she gives the classic "ahem!" of falsely clearing her throat, "-talk with you Daisy. I do think someone should have a talk with Miss Eisha about trust and teamwork though." At this she seems torn. When Lanius asks for the necklace she nods and hands it over, trusting her new companion's judgement to deal with the matter as he felt best.

[Pyrophilios]

Spoiler

Show

Perception (1d20)[14]+7

Lanius smiled: "A smith called Smith. Well, it had to happen eventually. I'll leave talking to the delinquent to our man of the cloth. Probably better for all involved."
He took the necklace and hurried after the guard. "You appear to have lost this. Better have that catch checked out."

As the waggons got ready, he called up to the teamsters: "Do you need a third driver? Learned to handle those carts in the army - and I get by with less sleep than most. In any case, dipps on the roof."
Lanius didn't fear the chill - two applications of his little talent to his shirt and trousers turned them comfortably warm as if they were freshly dried from an oven.

To the others he said: "By the way, anyone of you playing cards? I think I saw a packet in my backpack."