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Ryuujin
Sep 26, 2007
Dragon God



Red Larch is a town on the Long Road, a few days’ travel
north of Waterdeep and a few days’ travel south of Triboar.
It’s a way stop for caravans coming to or from the cities of
the North, with an inn named the Swinging Sword, a tavern
called the Helm at Highsun, and many craftspeople who
cater to travelers.

You have been traveling for days now, as part of a caravan passing through, recently arrived to Red Larch you watch as you pass the clumps of red larches for which the town is named. As the caravan enters the town you are deposited as they move on, to their own jobs and their continued trip. You may have come to know some of them, but they will continue on without you, and now you find yourselves standing alone. Just the seven of you. Each with your own reason for why you came here, for why you adventure, well for why you will be adventuring. Perhaps you have come to know each other during the trip, or perhaps you even knew some of each other before setting out, or perhaps you kept to yourself. But now the locals are looking at you as some unified group.

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Ryuujin
Sep 26, 2007
Dragon God
Players
Lars "Longshanks" Borikfikod Human spellless Ranger played by A Darker Porpoise
Darys Stoneback Mountain Dwarf Fighter played by Trast
ZedZeshoon Four Rogue Clone played by Waador
Khidash Lodi Human Cleric of Lathander played by Dr. Doji Suave
Quilian Nailos Wood Elf Ranger played by Lothire
Sereia Arlingfeld Half-Elf Paladin played by P.d0t
Ursa Manuel Genasi Sorcerer played by Monk E



Locations
2 - The Singing Sword. Inn.
8 - Lorren's Bakery
11 - Jalessa Ornra. Butcher
14 - Mhandyvver's Poultry

People
Kaylessa Irkell (female Illuskan human), proprietor of The Singing Sword.
Baker Mangobarl Lorren, Baker of Lorren's Bakery
Minthra “Minny” Mhandyvver, poulterer of Mhandyvver's Poultry
Pell, Minny's Granddaughter
Jalessa Ornra (female, Illuskan human), Butcher
Harburk Tuthmarillar (male Tethyrian human), Constable

Quests
Haunted Tomb (given by Mangobarl Lorren)
Lance Rock (given by Kaylessa Irkell)
----- and Bows (given by Harburk Tuthmarillar)

-----

Okay First Post have your Sheet, or a link for those who use another site for sheet, your character name in bold, an introductory post showing you are in. Posting conventions, posts should have your character name in bold, preferably linking to your sheet/first post. It would be nice if you also had your hp/hp max, AC, spell slots, etc in bold under your name like the posts in this thread. In character stuff should be in normal type, OOC stuff in italics. When rolling I prefer Orokos, making certain to have your Character Name and the Campaign name in the correct boxes, actually listing what the roll is for. And please do not roll a bunch of times until you get a result that you are sure is a success. Things like Orokos actually keep a record of your rolls and it isn't hard to go in and check that.

EDIT: Also if you have a Faction I would like it to be clear, possibly with a line in the above bolding about Emerald Enclave Rank 1 Renown 0 for someone like Lars.

Ryuujin fucked around with this message at 05:22 on Apr 14, 2015

Waador
Sep 11, 2001

Smashin' down the light.
Pillbug
Zeshoon Four (smooth criminal)

8 / 8 HP // 14 AC
Although he was technically a member of the Harper organization, Zeshoon took direction through slightly less conventional channels than the rank and file of the shadowy network of spies and sages. A specially selected, and indeed, specially crafted member of the recently formed and decidedly more clandestine and 'off the books' branch of the Harpers, he reported directly to his progenitor, who had forged him from the Weave itself. He, along with his six-hundred-and-sixty-five brothers, served the will of the progenitor in all ways, and although they acted individually across the far corners of the earth, they were directed by their father through occasional arcane missives, and in his unity of purpose they would one day bring peace to the Realms. That was the party line, anyway.

The High Harpers obviously had their suspicions about his father's purpose and intentions. It was rare for a Harper to so thoroughly bend the rules of the laws of magic to his will, ignoring things like respect for the intent of Mystra's laws rather than their exact letter, and the manner in which his father had collapsed a small portion of the Weave in order to forge the bodies and souls of his brothers caused more than a little concern for what other laws the archmage might choose to circumvent when it served his purpose, whether they were of mortal or divine edict. They couldn't argue with the efficacy of his results, though: the six-hundred-and-sixty-six sons of the Weave had ridden across the world in recent months, righting wrongs and fighting the spread of evil wherever they found it. Each, like Zeshoon, had a particular knack for infiltration, gathering information, and taking things that didn't belong to them. When put to the generally well-intentioned ends to which the Harper organization tended to align itself, this skill set had been nearly unparalleled in its ability to advance Harper interests and shield the assets of the organization from danger. And when put to less well-intentioned ends, such talents were equally effective at securing rare arcane lore, uncovering key pieces of blackmail that could be used to manipulate the political board of the Sword Coast, or any number of other questionable results.
As his caravan finally neared the settlement of Red Larch, a familiar tingle in his mind heralded the arrival of a spell of sending: directions from the progenitor. : "You're behind schedule, Four. We can't afford to have Waterdeep threatened this season. If something is amiss in Red Larch, deal with it. Status report?" Speaking under his breath, Zeshoon responds to the query, "All seems well at a glance ...analysis will be required to sort out the false rumors from real danger. A week's time should be enough."

Adjusting his cap, Zeshoon surveys the unlikely group of individuals who were fresh off the boat - or caravan, as the case may be - with him. He had chatted up a few of them throughout the course of their journey, but he hadn't been aware that they intended to stay in Red Larch rather than continue on with the caravan. That raised an interesting question: did they know something he didn't? If so, they seemed as good a place to start as any in his task of uncovering what threat, if any, was causing all the rumors about danger in Red Larch back in the City of Splendors. He got the sense that the elf and the half-elf were close, and wanted to get on their good side, so he inserts himself vaguely politely into their conversation, "I didn't know you folks were sticking around in Red Larch. What brings you here?" He gives a nod to the dwarf, as well as the fire elemental, "Seems like Red Larch is a popular place for all of us, isn't it?"
_____________________________________________
Passive: Perception (20) / Investigation (20) / Darkvision
Other: Hit Dice (1d8 / 1d8) / Inspiration / Concentration
Faction: Harper Watcher (Rank 1) / Renown (0)

Lothire
Jan 27, 2007

Rx Suicide emailed me and all I got was this amazingly awesome forum account.

Tortured By Flan

[Quilian Nailos]
HP: 10/10 | AC: 16 | HD: 1/1(d10) | Spells [none yet] | Arrows: 30

Players: if you want to give Quilian a look over with your character, there's a blurb about his physical appearance and a little about his attitude in his document, the very bottom!

Nursing a cup of booze, Quilian recalls a caravan he had been on not too long ago before traveling in on foot. It held quite a few individuals that looked rather promising as companions, but they were mostly quiet. Well, that's not quite fair. Quilian was the quiet one, having pulled his cloak's hood up masking his face. He had tranced - meditation, or sleep for an elf - during that portion of his trip to Red Larch. He arrived later than they did, but it seems he was included in the group by the local population all the same. He tries to recall their time together on the caravan correctly..

Larz: There is potential for kinship here, but it is an illusive thing that Quilian cannot quite place. Perhaps it is his expertise with the bow that he takes a shine to, or the inclusive nature the man tends to show to those around him. Much is still unclear about him, but he is undeniably a capable sort.. Although, he also gets the sense of a shady character. Still, Quilian thinks that a servant of the enemy would look fairer, and feel fouler.

Darys Stoneback: What can be said of the Dwarves and their ways that have not already been said? Darys is as true as they come, as pure as the stone that formed his home and the Dwarf himself forged the same. Elves - be they the woodland or high elven kind - and Dwarves have never really met eye to eye in terms of how life should be lived, but Quilian has known few of them, both good and ill. For what it is worth, Darys seems to of the former, but Quilian knows not to trust, judge or condemn so quickly. Time will tell if the two are friends or enemies.

Zeshoon Four: A strange character who speaks of being part of a vast army comprised of.. Himself, the elf thinks. His life story may not make much sense, but his skills and cleverness are sharp. Perhaps it is all a ruse to conceal some truer identify. Rather, Quilian hopes so, 'less the truth be far more unbelievable.

Khidash Lodi: He may call his god Lathander, but Quilian's people called him the Sun God. Even in these lands, the praise and blessings of the Sun God is the light which shines away the darkness, the hope which houses secretly in the hearts of all people who must bear with harsh times. To have a man of the cloth as an ally is to never know fear. There was a time Quilian had believed himself such a follower, but in time, he found his faith belonged with nature and all its aspects, and that faith was only a small part of who he is. He has much respect for this fellow, who treats others as such a clergyman should.

Ursa Manuel: If he had not seen it himself, he would never have believed it. A woman made of fire. Quilian has never met one of her kind before, but knows she is not of the elemental planes - her form would be far less shapely. There is a recklessness about her, as uncontrolled as the flames she wields - yet she keeps it together enough to walk the world as she does. Is there more to her than he sees?

There was another who he did not meet along the trip, but knew in his mind was with him then. Sereia, a wood elf kin and ally in his time in Blingdenstone, has somehow made it to Red Larch. It was likely she knew he had been on the caravan, but let him rest all the same - she is a kind soul in that way. His cup sits empty, and the group has now - for better or worse - been formed. It was time he joined them, introduced himself proper and began investigations into this strange situation.

The day's weather alight's Quilian's face, his hood down and smile worn as he approaches the group.

"Quel 're. (Elvish:"Good day") Forgive my quiet rest during our time on the caravan, the Evermoor Way becomes less and less friendly with each passing day. I am Quilian Nailos, a pleasure to meet you all."

When he spies Sereia, he is quick to give a warm hug. "It may have only been months, but.. Nae saian luume'." ("It has been too long.")

Successful Businessmanga
Mar 28, 2010


Name: Lars Borikfikod
Faction- Emerald Enclave: Rank 1 Renown 0
HP:11/11 AC::14 HD:1/1 (d10) Movement: 30'
Arrows: 20 in quiver 20 bundled and strapped to pack.

The journey to Red Larch is certainly an interesting one with Lars, it wasn't odd for the young man to bolt off into the underbrush at one point or another and return with a handful of eggs or a small animal in one hand.

Looking at the giant of a man it's clear he's a well fed individual a healthy strength in his large frame, but the more obvious indication being his culinary progress, as the caravan stops each night, the sizzle of meat or the bubbling of a fine stew releases its scent over the camp drawing in the crowds.

Lars is generally fairly friendly but is reluctant to talk about his past, any inquiry into what he does for a living deflected towards his nightly activities as he pushes forward the fact that he is a traveling cook of sorts. When pushed about where he's from Lars' fairly evasive just stating he's from down south, his accent fairly flat with a few touches of the classic dwarven grumble mixed in.

As the caravan closes in on Red Larch Lars rustles through his bag and pulls out the little leaf shaped pin he'd found on the body of a scout in the woods a few weeks back alongside some fairly vaguely worded orders just listing the name of the town of Red Larch and saying it needed a "springwarden" to go check on it, he didn't know much about this Enclave group but hey it was something to do and may as well earn some points with the folks in high places.

Stowing his cooking gear Lars takes the pin and straightening his collar places the pin in it visibly outwards before heading into town, as he jostles collar around he feels something jostle and reaches in his hand coming out with a mouse skeleton in it he mutters to himself quietly "Oh yeah, Spur Re'Shon I was wondering what happened to you" a thought comes back to him and he remembers the previous evening where the brace of rabbits he'd caught had been not quite enough to balance the flavors correctly for the camp supper.

Lars shrugs and chucks the little pile of bones off the side of the road before walking into the town proper, his arrival official Lars sets off trekking through town spending a good hour or so walking the town to get the lay of the land.

-1 Pet mouse :v:

Monk E it's up to you if Lars would know Ursa from the orphanage or if we went to separate ones, I'm fine either way ha ha.

Successful Businessmanga fucked around with this message at 07:59 on Apr 15, 2015

P.d0t
Dec 27, 2007
I released my finger from the trigger, and then it was over...

Lothire posted:


[Quilian Nailos]
When he spies Sereia, he is quick to give a warm hug. "It may have only been months, but.. Nae saian luume'." ("It has been too long.")
stealing token from Blingdenstone thread; lemme know if there's a different/preferred image

Sereia Arlingfeld
HP: 14 | AC: 15/17 | HD: 1/1d10 | Lay on Hands: 5/5

Clearly in no rush to separate from her adventuring companion's embrace, Sereia replies, "Well, I couldn't leave you to your own devices indefinitely; [elven] epäilemättä olisit saada itsesi tapetaan (no doubt you'd get yourself killed.)"
She can't be sure if anyone picks up on her sarcasm. It never was her strong suit.

Lothire
Jan 27, 2007

Rx Suicide emailed me and all I got was this amazingly awesome forum account.

Tortured By Flan

[Quilian Nailos]
HP: 10/10 | AC: 16 | HD: 1/1(d10) | Spells [none yet] | Arrows: 30

"Sei eina!" [Very funny!] Quilian jokes, ".. I hope to have changed since our time underground. No longer do I aim to be caught by the axes of my foes so readily." He traces a mark on his chest, hidden by the brown tunic covering his chain shirt. It's a gesture, reminding Sereia of it being the place where the very first Orc of Blingdenstone had laid him low. It would seem he still wears the same armor, even though it is now covered by his tunic.

"Mani nae lle?" [How have you been?]

Monk E
May 19, 2009
Ursa Manuel



HP9/9, AC12, hit dice1/1, Spell Slots 1:2/2

Ursa glared at the caravan she had been up until a few hours hours prior in charge of guarding, she knew she had to at least keep up the appearance of taking real jobs to make the profit of her vigilante exploits at least a little bit less suspicious but as usual this job had just reminded her of why she never got along with "civilized" folk, burn down one tent and all of a sudden your a liability that's worth facing the beasts of the wild alone to avoid.

after finally being satisfied with evil eye her ex-employers were no where near close enough to see Ursa took a look at her surroundings and began to asses just how badly she wanted to leave, despite being rather quiet and underdeveloped for her liking there seemed to be enough basic amenity's present that waiting for a caravan to return home on would be tolerable, plus she had heard the local cooking was top class so if nothing else she would at least be willing to stay long enough to try that out even if it would likely mean having to figure out accommodations for the night.

As Ursa toured the city determining if she would be able to squeeze the locals for a free room her thoughts were cut short by a familiar figure "Lars? Is that you?" as she spoke the flames around her head began to move chaotically "Melinda was worried sick for months after you left then an entirely different set of months once she started seeing your face on wanted posters! Plus you were the best rodent murderer we had, when you up and vanished I had to run double shifts to make up the difference!"

Dr. Doji Suave
Dec 31, 2004


Khidash Lodi
HP: 10 | AC: 15 | HD: 1/1 (1d8)
Cantrips (3) | Light, Spare the Dying, Resistance
Lvl 1 (2) | Cure Wounds (LD), Bless (LD), Healing Word, Shield of Faith, Purify Food and Drink, Sanctuary

Traveling in a wagon was only good on the old bones of Khidash for so long before he needed to stand and stretch. Every bump and dip in the road shot small spikes of pain up his back, as his teeth gritted from behind the white cloth that draped over the bottom of his face. In front of him his pack rested with his shield fastened to the face with a set of crude linen straps. The symbol of Lathander on the shield was well cared for despite the age of the craftsmanship, a good close up of the surface would reveal the scars of battle buffed out and hammered back flat as best as possible. Even the mace on his side was well used and maintained as the handle was wrapped with leather strips picked from the offal of a leather worker in Baldur's Gate that was close to the clergy of the temple.

During his travels with this particular group he kept to himself when possible, considering it nothing more than an excuse to get from one place to another. During his time out of the wagons he would say prayers to himself while on watch, and in the evenings he would silently say his prayers over his meals and keep any lavish displays of worship off away from the others as to avoid offending. Past excursions had taught him that many traveling merchants and mercenaries held their own beliefs tight against their chest, and were unwilling to break free so easily, that is until they needed the healing rays of Lathander's light. Khidash knew that if any member of this caravan sought his knowledge or services, they would ask.

When the wagons finally stopped at Red Larch Khidash adjusted his white turban and his face cover to help keep the dust of the road out, and left the wagon as the rays of the sun shined onto his white robes, his long white cape flowing out behind him as wrinkles and stains were visible in the cloth of both. All past rips and holes were hastily sewed over with off-color patches in an attempt to prolong the life of the articles that covered his body. The chain shirt that Khidash felt burdened by made audible shutters against itself under his robes as he tossed the pack over one shoulder by a strap with his calloused and cracked hands. Ahead of him the others departed and immediately found their way to a small gathering where they began conversation in multiple languages. Thank Lathander we have some mental talent in this lot... his thoughts mused as he watched the chef, the one person he wanted to trade words with first and foremost, part the group and head into the town's core. The one attempt Khidash had made with breaking the ice during the travels was met with 'Down south' and a low grumble, when asking about the cook's origins. Khidash enjoyed those who could live off of the land and admired their ability to stay economically sound. Whenever he could he tried to network with these sorts, and seeing someone so young that was cut from this cloth was a surprise to him!

He figured the young chef had other business to attend to, as his glance fixed on the small gathering of what looked to be of old friends. Carefully he watched the figure that had left the caravan with him, adjusting their hat, approach the small group and start to speak with them. At this point he had only spoken idle chit chat with most of the group during the travels, and he felt guilty for having such a withdrawn attitude. Normally he was social and well mannered, it was unlike him to keep silent. Especially in the company of an elemental which for Khidash was a first as a traveling partner.

Quietly, he approached and stood next to the hat wearing half-elf that had popped the question about intentions in Red Larch. He picked up the question in a heart beat, replying as if he had been there the entire time waiting for it. "Lathander willing I an hoping to make some coin to fatten this purse..." his hand moved down and lifted up from below the small coin pouch that hung from his leather belt. "If any of you young bloods have some work that could use an old sod like myself, please let me know. My plans right now are food in my belly from the local eateries and a scrutiny of the local work prospects."

Successful Businessmanga
Mar 28, 2010


Name: Lars Borikfikod
Faction- Emerald Enclave: Rank 1 Renown 0
HP:11/11 AC::14 HD:1/1 (d10) Movement: 30'
Arrows: 20 in quiver 20 bundled and strapped to pack.

Back on the road-Khidash

As he's preparing for dinner one night dressing down rabbits efficiently he spots a face that's become familiar on the caravan, an old man a priest of some sort approaching, Lars simply utters to himself "Mask preserve" and clams up ready to be on the receiving end of a moralizing lecture that, to his surprise, never comes.

Lars remains somewhat frosty throughout a quick back and forth but in the end his opinion of the man who introduces himself as Khidash is left rather positive though the man surely unfortunately is feeling somewhat spurned, Lars chastises himself briefly for being so chilly now that he's escaped the grasp of the city and decides to make up for it later.

Present Day-Ursa

Lars continues to wander the town aimlessly until he hears a voice from the past, someone he hasn't seen in many years, he turns quickly and his face splits into a grin "Little Ursa! Well I'll be damned!" As his old friend begins talking of wanted posters Lars hisses through his teeth and drops his voice to a conspiratorial whisper "You remember the widower who lived in that big mansion on the edge of Waukeen's Promenade? Well the Borikfikod set me and that older kid from the streets who used to help us out from time to time, Harold the Gorgeous the gang calls him heh."

Lars eyes look a little misty as he recalls good times from ages past but the moment passes quickly "Well they set me and him up with a job to rob the house, but things didn't exactly go to plan, Harold got smacked by a bolt of lighting trap and didn't exactly make it out, he pinned me in exchange for his freedom, and last I heard he was headed up to Waterdeep."

Raising his head back up to his full height he gives Ursa a fond smile "But hot drat were you in that caravan too? Can't believe we didn't run into each other before now!" Shaking his head bemusedly side to side Lars pulls the Emerald Enclave pin from his collar "Anyway I'm waiting for things to calm down before I head home, I found this on a chump in the woods and I've been following the orders he had for some fun, why not right?" Lars pauses realizing he's rambling to fill an awkward gap in the air and gives Ursa what she deserves "Sorry I ran away, I just couldn't stay there anymore it was killing me inside."

Jerking his head back towards the place the caravan dropped him off Lars asks "Looks like a buncha other folks got left behind too, wanna go link up see if we can get a group deal at the inn or something heh?"

Successful Businessmanga fucked around with this message at 08:00 on Apr 15, 2015

Trast
Oct 20, 2010

Three games, thousands of playthroughs. 90% of the players don't know I exist. Still a redhead saving the galaxy with a [Right Hook].

:edi:
I'll be making my first post and the associated role play in the morning. I got in late and I want to reread the first page of the thread with a fresh set of eyes. I'll post my token and it's links as a test for now. The URLs for equipment and backstory will be filled with links in the morning as well.


Darys Stoneback
[HP: 13/13] [AC: 17]
Hit Dice: 0/1 (D10)
Movement: 25ft
Full Equipment List and Funds
Backstory

Trast fucked around with this message at 22:18 on Apr 12, 2015

Waador
Sep 11, 2001

Smashin' down the light.
Pillbug
Zeshoon Four (smooth criminal)

8 / 8 HP // 14 AC
When the turban-wearing human approaches him and the others, and responds to his comment, Zeshoon immediately picks up on something he had said: 'Lathander willing.' Was it fate? The progenitor had explained that to truly walk in his path and gain the power that he had gathered, a few key ingredients were necessary. The first ingredient on the list - a literal list, in fact, which Zeshoon kept in a vest pocket - was 'a well-intentioned cleric of Lathander, preferably one who regularly skirts with death.' This man, in his advanced years, seemed to be exactly the thing he needed. Some of the other ingredients on the list were a bit harder to find, but he was already a step closer to the goal than he was when he woke up this morning.

When the man explains that he is looking for work in order to fatten his purse, Zeshoon takes kindly to that as well. A practical cleric of Lathander? He had thought that to be an impossibility. Clapping the man on the back, he offers, "If there's one thing I can find in a backwater town, it's work that the locals aren't qualified to get done! What are your talents, friend?"
_____________________________________________
Passive: Perception (20) / Investigation (20) / Darkvision
Other: Hit Dice (1d8 / 1d8) / Inspiration / Concentration
Faction: Harper Watcher (Rank 1) / Renown (0)

P.d0t
Dec 27, 2007
I released my finger from the trigger, and then it was over...

Lothire posted:


[Quilian Nailos]

"Sei eina!" [Very funny!] Quilian jokes, ".. I hope to have changed since our time underground. No longer do I aim to be caught by the axes of my foes so readily." He traces a mark on his chest, hidden by the brown tunic covering his chain shirt. It's a gesture, reminding Sereia of it being the place where the very first Orc of Blingdenstone had laid him low. It would seem he still wears the same armor, even though it is now covered by his tunic.

"Mani nae lle?" [How have you been?]




Sereia Arlingfeld
HP: 14 | AC: 15/17 | HD: 1/1d10 | Lay on Hands: 5/5


Sereia remembers the damaged chain links; "You really have grown attached to those vestments.." She trails off, knowing it's one of those Quilianisms.
"I uh. Just been searching.. Y'know. Wandering, meditating. I actually managed to spend some time just staying around town in Berdusk, and wearing normal clothes for a more than a day!"

Finally noticing she hasn't let go of Quilian, her signature blush shows through, letting her hands fall to her sides and taking a half-step back.

Lothire
Jan 27, 2007

Rx Suicide emailed me and all I got was this amazingly awesome forum account.

Tortured By Flan

[Quilian Nailos]
HP: 10/10 | AC: 16 | HD: 1/1(d10) | Spells [none yet] | Arrows: 30

Sereia, as always, is met by Quilian's genuine smile. For a swordsman accustomed to the lonely woods and roads of the world, to have the company of a trusted companion is a joy few other things can bring.

Although, it could also be due to the company of the others. Such a strange group to have come together as this.. Could they all really work together? It will prove no doubt difficult for one reason or another.. No, he cannot afford to think this way, 'less his old ways best left long buried see the light of day once more. He need only imagine the sights they could see, the deeds they could accomplish and the foes they could best. Such thoughts bring to him his courage.

Courage enough at least, to be one of the first to speak with the dwarf. Darys Stoneback, if he recalls the name correctly. He is loud enough for the others to hear, thinking the group may come together fully to discuss what comes next.

"It seems our paths share the same road, though I cannot see where it leads us.." A nearby set of barrels plays well as an impromptu seat. ".. With so many villagers speaking of woes and troubling times, where to begin feels a quest all on its own."

Lothire fucked around with this message at 12:32 on Apr 12, 2015

Trast
Oct 20, 2010

Three games, thousands of playthroughs. 90% of the players don't know I exist. Still a redhead saving the galaxy with a [Right Hook].

:edi:

Darys Stoneback
[HP: 13/13] [AC: 17]
Hit Dice: 0/1 (D10)
Movement: 25ft
Full Equipment List and Funds
Backstory

The steady clop of the horses hooves reminded Darys of his soldiering days. Going from camp to camp with nothing to do but march with your company or play cards on the cart when it was your turn to hitch a ride. Darys missed those days. There was always someone willing to lose their money in a game of Mountain Hold'em and Darys was more than happy to take it from them. He hadn't struck up any card games on this trip though. You had to get the measure of a person before you played cards with them. You never knew when someone was going to be stubborn and not pay their fair share when the lost. And he really hated having to interrupt a game to knock some sense into a sore loser. Most of the time the table ended up flipped over and all the ale spilled on the floor! Moradin forgive him for wasting good brew but fair is fair and a debt is a debt!

So for the sake of not having to tip any wagons over Darys mostly kept to himself during the ride into Red Larch. He spent his time going through the books that he treated as his prized possessions. He'd make notes in his own papers or in the margins. But If someone was friendly enough to introduce themselves he was happy to make their acquaintance.

Zeshoon Four

The half elf who called himself Zeshoon spoke to him as the caravan came into Red Larch. Or at least Darys thought he was a half elf. He looked mighty pale to his dwarven eyes even for one of the fey folk. And that was coming from someone who had spent half his life underground in tunnels. "It seems to be at that!" when the elf asked him why he'd come to Red Larch. "I've come looking for any adventure that will have me, my friend. The time came for me to step out of the mines and see the world. And being a dwarf of the mines I didn't rightly know where to head off to first. So I let Moradin guide my fate by throwing a knife right into the biggest map I could find in the family hold. I almost hit my cousin Ummul right in the chest with it! What kind of fool walks in front of a dwarf when he's making that kind of decision I ask you! Well seems my cousin is that kind of fool!" Darys let loose with a rumbling laugh. "Poor Ummul, good miner but dumber than a sack of goblins."

Lars

Now if Darys had ever seen a human that could qualify as "a mountain of a man" as humans are like to say then this one was it. Darys was tall for a dwarf and this human was well over a foot taller than he was. He seemed to be one of those ranger types Darys had seen hired on by the army to do scouting when a dwarfs lack of subtly was going to be a detriment. Darys was all for strategy but what fun was it skulking around when there were heads to smash? This ranger seemed to be an expert at living off the land. He was always darting off from the caravan at night and coming back with an arm full of rabbits or a deer slung over his shoulder. But he was always happy to share his catch with the caravan. That marked him as a decent enough sort. He didn't talk much though. When he did Darys couldn't help hearing a bit of dwarf in his voice. He'd have to get a chance to speak to him and see what that was about. He'd also have to ask him what he braised the deer with, it was fantastic!

Khidash

Darys had watched the older human go about his business quietly during the trip. The cleric had been tight lipped and keeping to himself unless he'd been needed. This didn't strike Darys as too odd. Many of his kin who heard the words of Moradin were given tasks by him that kept their minds occupied and their hands busy. Still the older human was always willing to heal the occasional injury or offer a soothing word. Luckily there hadn't been more than a bump on the head and a bit of exposure to too much sun that needed to be tended to. A man who'll heal his neighbor was the good sort. He'd seen many a life saved by the selfless acts of the clerics during his time in the army.

One night while the caravan camped Darys wandered over to where the cleric where he was meditating. "I don't mean to be disturbin' you, friend cleric. I just wanted to say an old soldier like me will always appreciate the healing your kind brings to those who need it. I figure your off on your own so you don't upset anyone else who doesn't 'see the light'." He gestured to the shield laying by the cleric's side emblazoned with the mark of Lathander. "Still your god an' mine are always on the same side of a fight so if I'm ever in the need of healin' it's good to know men like you are with us." Darys patted a hand on his chest like he was showing off an old war wound under his tunic. His eyes went distant for a moment and the mood on his face changed. "Forgive me I've interrupted you long enough, goodnight to you."

Darys' memories posted:

The lad clutched at Darys' chest and pulled him closer. "Sarge! I don't wanna die here!"

"Who said you could die, soldier! This sergeant sure didn't! Now you hold on the healer is comin'!" There was smoke and noise everywhere along the battlefield. Dead orcs and dwarves littered everywhere as far as you could see. The young dwarf clutching at his chest wasn't even a man yet, barely 40 years old! A great javelin was sticking through the dwarf's side. Darys had killed the orc who had stabbed it into the boy and the filthy creature was laying besides them almost cut in two. Around them Darys' unit was fighting hand to hand with the orcs. "Where is the damned healer!"

"Sarge we're cut off from Granite Squad! The healer can't get through the orcs!" called out one of Darys' corporals.

The hand clenching at Darys' chest went slack. The young dwarf coughed up blood one final time and died where he laid. Even with the din of battle Darys' men swear they heard their sergeants anger as clear as if it had been a quiet day when he spoke next. Darys got off his knees and got his weapons in his hands. "By Moradin's beard not a single orc standing in front of us will live to see another day or I'll send you all to the Abyss myself! For the fallen! For Moradin!"

Ursa

Darys didn't know what to make of the one called Ursa. He'd heard the stories about the Genasi in stories around the keg but he'd never thought he's actually see one. He'd lived his life around forges and open fire but what do you say to a woman who is a living fire herself? "Hi there, how's the weather? Hot enough for you?" It was just as likely to get you roasted alive as a hello and how are you. The fiery lass was always keeping an eye on everything even when she wasn't on guard duty. Was she paranoid? Was she on the look out for something. It came to be that she knew the human Lars. Now there was an unusual couple if he'd ever seen one. He'd have to get some tankards in them both and see what they were cookin'. Darys laughed to himself at his little joke. Then he realized that the Genasi might not take too kindly to it and composed himself. Matron Stoneback's baby boy wasn't going to make an embarrassment of himself on account of a joke or two. Still he wondered what one like her would drink in a tavern. Could she even drink alcohol without lighting the glass on fire?

Quilian and Sereia

More elves were on the caravan. A ranger named Quilian who looked a bit frail to Darys' eyes but never the less looked to be able to handle himself in a fighter. His gear showed signs of use and good care. He had a pair of blades at his hip and a longbow strapped across his back. He'd kept his distance from Darys during the trip. Darys wasn't going to hold that against him. The history of the elves and the dwarves went back a long way and there was always something causing a ruckus between them. Still he didn't get along badly with anyone, for a dwarf. If the ranger was going to speak to him he'd let the lad do it on his own terms. Treehuggers, who can figure them out anyway?

There was another elf waiting in town when the caravan arrived. This one had the bearing of a professional soldier about her. She also seemed to know Quilian as they made right for each other and embraced like old friends. Darys had wandered off from the caravan over to where the two elves were speaking to stretch his legs. Quilian noticed him and decided to speak. His eyes took in Darys and the rest of the travelers who bore that telltale look of an adventurer and spoke of the troubles the villagers had experienced and what we could do about it.

"Trouble indeed! The caravan master could talk of nothing else but all kinds of calamity on the way here. It's a wonder he gets any repeat customers with all the doom and gloom!" He let out a laugh. "Well if there is trouble to be fixed with a sharp axe and a heavy hammer I'll be one of the ones to get to it. Moradin's sent me here to find my adventures and I don't mean to shy away from the All-Father's will. If it means smashing the teeth out of an orcs head all the better!"

To Sereia the dwarf looks over and says "Pardon me Lady Elf but if my eyes aren't deceiving me you've got the look of a proper soldier about yea'. It's always good to be around someone who'd been in the trenches! You can always count on them in a fight!" He glances about and then speaks again. "Again beggin' your pardon but I thought I might ask you something. I'm going about learning the things one needs to do to brew up a right proper drink and who to serve it to. Now I never got to get much of an opinion from any of the women in the clan because they love the ale as much as any man does. And I guess they can't go drinking red wine like a human woman or it will stain their beards! I was wondering what a nice lass like you likes to drink after a hard day." He then looks back to Quilius. "My gut is telling me your the type that likes something fruity but those scars say you've been in enough of a scrap to need something stronger."

Trast fucked around with this message at 22:18 on Apr 12, 2015

Dr. Doji Suave
Dec 31, 2004


Khidash Lodi
HP: 10 | AC: 15 | HD: 1/1 (1d8)
Cantrips (3) | Light, Spare the Dying, Resistance
Lvl 1 (2) | Cure Wounds (LD), Bless (LD), Healing Word, Shield of Faith, Purify Food and Drink, Sanctuary

Before him the small gathering of old friends, judging by the sounds of things, kept going with only a murmur from the interruption of Zeshoon to his side. It was an understandable reaction, Khidash knew that seeing old friends and war buddies was always a bit of a private affair. It was also a very touching affair, since it reminded him that the work he did was of the highest importance both in the name of Lathander as well as the continuation of a safe and fluid Faerûn. Seeing the dwarf Darys who had approached him during their travels join the social circle made him smile under his mask, as several smaller pieces fit together on the link the three shared.

He knew for those busy in reunion it was important and heart felt, so he turned his attention to the young half elf who had asked about his abilities. His robed clad arm returned the back pat with a heavy smack, turning the two away from the group to give them a small bit of privacy in their affairs. "Well, I can do ceremonies for weddings, funerals, and oversee marital disputes in the name of Lathander. However, judging by the kind of stock that seems to be in this group, I suppose you want to know my skills outside of the domestic theater." His hand moved on his side, which revealed from under the heavy white cape that rested around his frame the mace that hung from a loop on his belt. "While I generally find wounding the living is against my purpose, I have no issues providing medical aid and mental support for those who I travel with. The future is written by the young, and the past is protected by the old. If I find a cause that is deemed worthy of the Light of Lathander in this backwater, I have no issues with accepting their calls." The hand allowed the cloth to drape back over the weapon as the hand pointed to the sun above as he pulled the half elf close. "My shoulders are willing to carry the burden of life in all things, and I do this for Lathander so His will can be carried out through me."

The theatrics made him laugh at himself, quite audibly as he let go of the lad and stood up straight, adjusting his belt as he spun to face the remainder of the group once more. "If you and this group can find work here half elf, I will most gladly accompany you into hell or high water."

Dr. Doji Suave fucked around with this message at 00:18 on Apr 13, 2015

Lothire
Jan 27, 2007

Rx Suicide emailed me and all I got was this amazingly awesome forum account.

Tortured By Flan

[Quilian Nailos]
HP: 10/10 | AC: 16 | HD: 1/1(d10) | Spells [none yet] | Arrows: 30

Initially smirking at the comment about smashing Orcs, the wood elf didn't realize a part of his garment had been riding up, revealing some of the nicks and cuts of a life filled with adventure. Adjusting his attire..

"Had you found me in a place of my kin, you would be right, master dwarf. Alas, out here the drink of choice is a fair ale, crafted by fair inn keepers and tavern owners. I find the stronger brews of man too heavy, the.. "Effects" too mild for the taste."

His attention shifts to the sky for a brief moment - was it just him, or are the clouds moving more aggressively in this area? It is only an errant thought.

Monk E
May 19, 2009
Ursa Manuel



HP9/9, AC12, hit dice1/1, Spell Slots 1:2/2

Ursa's features softened at the apology "I guess I can understand I probably would have left too if I had been in your shoes and as for the posters...well I've probably given Melinda more stress on a weekly basis then those things ever did". Upon catching sight of the congregating group Ursa's features once again filled with energy "Looks like somethings brewing down there, might be a brawl or something else worth an evening of entertainment we should definitely check it out.

Successful Businessmanga
Mar 28, 2010


Name: Lars Borikfikod
Faction- Emerald Enclave: Rank 1 Renown 0
HP:11/11 AC::14 HD:1/1 (d10) Movement: 30'
Arrows: 20 in quiver 20 bundled and strapped to pack.

Lars lets a friendly grin slide back on his face as Ursa accepts his apology "You'll be glad to learn my time away from home has got me cooking a lot better than I did back in the orphanage more than just rat-kabobs nowadays!"

Strolling over the the gathering party with Ursa his somewhat demeanor hardens a bit again as they walk towards this new group the ice cracked a touch by Ursa's appearance "Hey there, I'm Lars, if you were with the caravan you probably ate something I cooked at some point." Nodding his head to Khidash Lars apologizes briefly "Sorry I was so chilly the other night, I'm not too good around large groups of folk I don't know.

Pulling the Enclave missive from his pocket, Lars reads over the simple missive, that states simply that the town needs assistance, once again and looks at everyone "According to this here note I'm here to help, If ya need a cook or someone shot I'm your man."

Successful Businessmanga fucked around with this message at 08:00 on Apr 15, 2015

Lothire
Jan 27, 2007

Rx Suicide emailed me and all I got was this amazingly awesome forum account.

Tortured By Flan

[Quilian Nailos]
HP: 10/10 | AC: 16 | HD: 1/1(d10) | Spells [none yet] | Arrows: 30

A fire girl and a cooking archer. There was a joke to be had there, but Quilian would never dare be so impolite as to speak it openly, nor would he risk either of their ire with such crude humor. Truthfully, he regrets having tranced on the caravan ride - the elf has eaten rat before, one of the practices of living in the wilderness. Never turned into a real meal, as this man practices. If he could actually strain out that gamey taste, get a real meat tasting broth.. He ought to forget these thoughts, less the elven bread he packs for emergency rations never look appetizing ever again.

Quilian moves to his feet, standing beside the archer as he holds his note out. "Quilian Nailos. Mae' govannen." [Well met.] The note reads with some familiarity, but nothing quite connects in his mind. Not until he spies the pin Lars wears, and the lines immediately connect.

"Emerald Enclave. So even they have taken an interest. There must truly be something unusual about this place for them to bother."

Lars does not carry himself as a member, in action, looks or words. He is likely using it as a guise or ruse. Shaking off the trail of an unscrupulous type would be his guess, but none of it particularly matters. Knowing the enclave is somehow interested is information enough.

"It is difficult to tell what is subjective and what is truth when speaking to villagers. There is an Inn not far from here, The Singing Sword (Number 2 on the Red Larch map). The drink is fair, but I find proprietors of such places can be a wealth of accurate knowledge."

Quilian won't leave quite yet, wanting to socialize and give people time to accompany him.

Waador
Sep 11, 2001

Smashin' down the light.
Pillbug
Zeshoon Four (smooth criminal)

8 / 8 HP // 14 AC
The half-elf laughs, responding to the turban-wearing human, "Well, I mean, I can try to stir some romance among the locals in order to get a wedding or two planned, but ...yeah, I sort of expect the local job placement agency will have a slightly more targeted niche of activities on its to-do list." He shrugs, offering, "Anyway, there's no sense sitting on barrels under the heat of the mid-day sun. If we want to find some work, we should be taking in the sights, and getting to know the locals." Spinning on his heel with a snap of the thumb and forefinger of his right hand, he looks to the rest of the group while adjusting his hat with his left hand in a rather synchronized and mildly hypnotic manner. He comments to them all, "I love this conversation but can we have it somewhere inside?"
pre:
Performance (dance) 11
Inserting snappy dance moves while I walk to attract the attention of the locals.
He gives a deliberate wink to them all while offering, "The first drink's on me, for anyone that wants to talk skill sets, if you're interested in trying to find some work ...or some intrigue, I suppose... in this backwater oasis." He points to the inn, made apparent by the sign that says 'Inn', and comments, "I'll be grabbing a table in there, out of the heat of the sun, if anyone would care to join me." Snapping his fingers rhythmically as he walks, Zeshoon makes his way into the Swinging Sword inn. When he gets inside, he drops three gold pieces on the counter in front of the barkeep, and comments, "Morning. The name's Four. I'll be needing to set up a tab during my stay in this lovely hamlet. Here's a down payment in good faith. What's on the menu that you might recommend?"
pre:
Persuasion 20
Flirting (or making nice) with the barkeep as appropriate.
He was a mix of confidence, grace, and well-rehearsed poise, and that was a combination most commoners found rather appealing. He had enough experience to know when he was hitting the right chord with new people and making a good impression, so he also slips in, "I bet you've been around here long enough to know all the people, places and faces of this town. Do you think you could give me a quick rundown about anything worth knowing?" His deadpan eyes and matter-of-fact tone sold the ask. Nonetheless, he winks, adding, "I'd be highly appreciative for any insights you might be kind enough to share."
_____________________________________________
Passive: Perception (20) / Investigation (20) / Darkvision
Other: Hit Dice (1d8 / 1d8) / Inspiration / Concentration
Faction: Harper Watcher (Rank 1) / Renown (0)
Wealth: Coins (12 gp) / Swinging Sword tab (3gp)

Trast
Oct 20, 2010

Three games, thousands of playthroughs. 90% of the players don't know I exist. Still a redhead saving the galaxy with a [Right Hook].

:edi:

Darys Stoneback
[HP: 13/13] [AC: 17]
Hit Dice: 0/1 (D10)
Movement: 25ft
Full Equipment List and Funds
Backstory

Quilian and Four and generosity of elves

"Fair ale by fair tavern keepers, aye? Well if my ears didn't deceive me we're about to find out how fair it might be in this town. And on Mr. Four's coin no less! No dwarf is going to pass up a drink so kindly offered. What did you say the name of that inn was, the Singing Sword?"

Lars and Ursa

Darys saw that Lars and the fiery lass were getting along like siblings. He didn't quite expect that a group of adventurers would all be so familiar with one another. Back in the army you were lucky to be in the same company as another one of your clan. He saw the pair come walking up to the rest of them as they'd gathered around the barrels.

"There you are, Lars. I'd been meanin' to ask you a few things about all the cooking you'd been doing for us on the road." He then gestured to Ursa and said to her "You'll have to be forgivin' me for not being more social on the trip in, lass. I had my nose buried in my books. And I have to say you had a bit of a look about you like you didn't want anyone botherin' you while you were pulling watch. I'd done enough guard duty myself to know how that can be. How about you and Lars come along to this inn the elf there is talking about? I'm quiet keen to know what a Genasi likes to drink."

Darys is going to the inn to have a drink on Four's tab. :guinness:

Successful Businessmanga
Mar 28, 2010


Name: Lars Borikfikod Faction- Emerald Enclave: Rank 1 Renown 0
HP:11/11 AC::14 HD:1/1 (d10) Movement: 30' Arrows: 40

Lars gives Quilian a friendly nod and offers his hand to shake offering his own greeting "Lars" he pauses half a moment considering whether giving his surname is completely wise being a wanted criminal, but he figures if someone happens to know the name of a relatively small street gang from over 700 miles to the south more power to them, playing the pause off as though he is clearing his throat he begins again "Lars Borikfikod Priyatno poznakomit'sya" Good to meet you Lars hasn't spoken Dwarven in a few months but the words feel good rolling off his tongue his accent matching to the language cleanly.

Watching the bizarre half-elf dance his way off into the distance in what Lars must simply assume is some kind of odd mating display he shakes his head grinning at the odd situation as Darys approaches and begins to chat away "Feel free to ask anything about my cooking, it's a hobby I've had a long time to work on." Seeing as 3 people have suggested heading to this Inn Lars gives a quick nod and chirps up "I could certainly use some time out of the sun and a drink and as that dancing fella says talking to the folk in town will get us somewhere faster then standing around some barrels."

Using romanized Russian for Dwarven because it's fun!

Successful Businessmanga fucked around with this message at 08:02 on Apr 15, 2015

Lothire
Jan 27, 2007

Rx Suicide emailed me and all I got was this amazingly awesome forum account.

Tortured By Flan

[Quilian Nailos]
HP: 10/10 | AC: 16 | HD: 1/1(d10) | Spells [none yet] | Arrows: 30

Seemed some of the group agreed with his assessment, for their own individuals reasons. The earlier ale he had on arrival hadn't quite hit the spot for Quilian, so visiting the place once more had a kind of dual appeal for the wood elf. If the half-elf can talk as smooth as he moves, information gathering will be a breeze.

Inside The Singing Sword..

A darker table in the corner is fine for Quilian, preferring some isolation from the bodies situated all around. With the way the hatted companion works, there is no need for him to participate. A bar maid travels by and Quilian, pointing to the man working over the main proprietor, orders a simple ale courtesy of the fellow.

Now comes the tricky part, what to nickname the suave half-elf. Slippin' Zeshoon? Has a nice ring to it..

Successful Businessmanga
Mar 28, 2010


Name: Lars Borikfikod Faction- Emerald Enclave: Rank 1 Renown 0
HP:11/11 AC::14 HD:1/1 (d10) Movement: 30' Arrows: 40

As the assembled filter into the tavern, Lars naturally gravitates towards a dark corner grabbing a drink and settling into a casual hunched over position a moody scowl falling across his face as he glances at the patrons of the establishment. Lars does his duty brooding for a time, when at the edge of his vision, he catches sight of Quillian in the opposite corner singled off in an identical manner, he stares awkwardly for a moment and then gives the man a conspiratorial nod before going back to his mandatory job as a bar patron.

Aragorn buds :v:

Successful Businessmanga fucked around with this message at 08:02 on Apr 15, 2015

Ryuujin
Sep 26, 2007
Dragon God
The Singing Sword

Four leads the way to the Singing Sword, dancing through the streets. He certainly draws the eye of onlookers, who occasionally point and speak of his passing. Now what they think of him is another matter. Still it is not long before he makes his way to the Singing Sword.

This inn is a three-story stone structure, crowned by a
steep slate roof that bristles with many chimneys. An
inn yard with stables and outbuildings lies behind the
building. While the Helm at Highsun is the place to hear
Red Larchers unwind, the Swinging Sword is the polite
social hub and neutral meeting ground of Red Larch.

Making his way in, and soon followed by the others, Four sees the inn slowly filling up as the day wears on. The proprietor greets you all warmly, especially Four. "Well hello there." She carefully wipes off the counter before resting an elbow upon it to look Four up and down.

"I am Kaylessa. Kayless Irkwell the proprietor of this fine inn." She looks at the others, and back at Four. "You have the look of adventurers, perhaps a little green, but still."

She taps a finger upon her lips. "You wish to know about the town? Well this is The Singing Sword of course, the finest inn in town. Across the street is The Helm at Highsun, not quite as nice as our inn, it is a bit of a lowerclass tavern, a taproom for locals to relax, gossip and flirt. You won't find anything quite as nice as here." She gives Four a nice smile.

"Just south of The Singing Sword is the Allfaiths Shrine, it is not for any specific faith, used by many different ones. Priests will shuttle out from Waterdeep in pairs for month-long stays at the shrine."

"To the north of The Helm at Highsun is Thelorn's Safe Journeys he is the foremost wagonmaker in this region. The quality of his wagon's are well known, even in Waterdeep."

"To the north of The Singing Sword is Chansyrl Fine Harness where they sell many leather goods. Saddles, and harnesses of course, as well as leather jackets, caps, boots, leggings and armor."

"To the north of The Helm at Highsun is Thelorn's Safe Journeys the foremost wagonmaker in this region."

"Across from the shrine is Helvur Tarnlar, Clothier. They are the premier clothier in the area, the only place to buy quality clothing for a hundred miles around."

She looks worried for a moment, then quietly confides with Four. "I have heard rumors that their children met some dwarf who warned them about plague, or something. I don't really know the details, you would have to speak with their parents."

She grows quiet for a moment, before calming down and continuing with the sights of town. "Lorren's Bakery is to the north of Chansyrl Fine Harness, they always have fresh round loaves and buns for sale. We even use some of their buns for our own meals here. We can make a great deal here, but it is still nice to have fresh buns. Their specialty is cheese-topped buns with melted mushroom cheese. For dinner tonight we are having a fine slivered steak with chills marinated in the steak drippings and a fine red wine, once we drain the chilis we mix them in with the steak and used the remaing broth as the base of a gravy that we then lather over it, and place the whole thing in a hollowed out bun from their bakery. placing the melted mushroom cheese top on the side, and placing a slice of hard cheese upon the whole thing, which we then toast in our oven until it is nice and crispy on the outside and melted well upon the filling."

"If you go a little ways down the Cairn Road you will see the Tantur Smithy they are fairly good at repairing things, so long as it doesn't require any special metal."

"In the center of town, south of the shrine is the Drouth Fine Poultry our largest poultry shop here in Red Larch it is always bustling. Across the street from it is Waelvur's Wagonworks a cheaper alternative to Thelorn's Safe Journeys for replacement wheels and axles, and such things."

"To the south of Drouth Fine Poultry are the buildings Jalessa Orna, our local butcher, owns. Her and her husband Harburk Tuthmarillar, our constable, make use of the four identical buildings as a workplace, shop, and home, as well the closest thing to a jail we have here. Hmm, I think Harburk was looking for some adventurers for something."

"A ways to the south of Jalessa's buildings, beyond the Dornen Finestone is Mhandyvver's Poultry, perhaps not as big as Drouth, but among us Red Larchers it is a favorite. Actually. Now that I bring it to mind, I believe I remember hearing that Minny's granddaughter had supposedly seen a ghost somewhere. She was so frightened. Across the street, well more across the street from Dornen Finestone is the Ironhead Arms run by Ironhead, a former adventurer. he sells weapons and armor."

"South of Dornen Finestone is Mhandyvver's Poultry, perhaps not as big as Drouth, but among us Red Larchers it is a favorite. Actually. Now that I bring it to mind, I believe I remember hearing that Minny's granddaughter had supposedly seen a ghost somewhere. She was so frightened."

"Ah yes, when the trials of the day grow upon you, when the dust of travel grits against your fine skin, you may want to stop by Haleeya's, to the north of town almost before you leave town, she operates a bathhouse and dress shop in her large home. It is quite relaxing. And her dresses are quite nice."

"To the south east of town is the Market. It is where farmers go to sell their goods every tenday. And shortly before heading out of town to the south on The Long Road is Vallivoe's Sundries, Endrith used to be a caravan merchant and he sells various things from his home."

She smiles at Four, "You are an adventurer right? And well since I told you a bit about our beautiful town, perhaps you can help me. It seems like a lot of strange things have been going on around the Lance Rock." She frowns, and muses, "could the dwarf that warned the Tarnlar children of plague have been at the Lance Rock? It might be worth asking their parents." She shakes her head, and continues. "Well as I was saying, there have been strange occurrences at the Lance Rock, but neither the constable nor the elders have helped me. So perhaps you, and your friends, could go and investigate? Make certain there is nothing sinister going on? I will make it worth your wile."

P.d0t
Dec 27, 2007
I released my finger from the trigger, and then it was over...
^^^some repeated stuff in that post, maybe could be cleaned up a little

Trast posted:


Darys Stoneback
Quilian and Sereia

To Sereia the dwarf looks over and says "Pardon me Lady Elf but if my eyes aren't deceiving me you've got the look of a proper soldier about yea'. It's always good to be around someone who'd been in the trenches! You can always count on them in a fight!" He glances about and then speaks again. "Again beggin' your pardon but I thought I might ask you something. I'm going about learning the things one needs to do to brew up a right proper drink and who to serve it to. Now I never got to get much of an opinion from any of the women in the clan because they love the ale as much as any man does. And I guess they can't go drinking red wine like a human woman or it will stain their beards! I was wondering what a nice lass like you likes to drink after a hard day."



Sereia Arlingfeld
HP: 14 | AC: 15/17 | HD: 1/1d10 | Lay on Hands: 5/5


Giving a terse look at first, Sereia's facial expression softens. She sits down, leaning on one hip with an arm propping her up, so as to be closer to eye-level with the dwarf.
"When I very little, I remember my family making wines of any flower or berry you could imagine; whenever I can find a honey wine or something like those, it brings me back... But I have had occasion to try the fancier, more expensive champagnes and such; I'm not sure they ever really suited my palette, though."

Sereia makes sure to cast a look over her shoulder to Quilian after she says this.


...

Seeing the group head for the inn, Sereia follows quickly after. Once inside, she awkwardly looks around, as if waiting to be told where she should situate herself.

...

Hearing mention of a Shrine piques Sereia's interest; she mentions to know one in particular that she would like to visit it at some point, though it may not lead them to any information about the problems lurking in the area. She also makes a mental note to remember to stop in at Haleeya's sometime.

P.d0t fucked around with this message at 08:15 on Apr 13, 2015

Successful Businessmanga
Mar 28, 2010


Name: Lars Borikfikod Faction- Emerald Enclave: Rank 1 Renown 0
HP:11/11 AC::14 HD:1/1 (d10) Movement: 30' Arrows: 40

Settled into his seat in the bar Lars rests on his shoulder, eavesdropping on Four's conversation as best he can over the din of the tavern. Interest perking up at the mention of a plague of some sort, the missive mentioned the springwarden was to deal with anything interfering with the natural balance of things, and something that would potentially kill everyone seems to qualify.

The issue of the ghost doesn't interest Lars immensely, he immediately dismisses the child as a coward probably jumping at nothing, it's been his fairly solid experience that the majority of kids nowadays are just too soft, having to kill an opposing gang member in your early teens builds a character these pudgy village children just don't ever accrue.

Lars winces at the mention of the local law needing assistance but quickly reminds himself again he's over 700 miles from home and in a city as busy as Athkatla they likely haven't sent wanted posters for a rather minor criminal out this far.

Finishing his drink Lars leans forward in his chair scratching at his chin, he weighs out the options and decides that checking in with the family of the children that had apparently has some kind of prophetic warning is prudent before heading out to this Lance Rock and investigating.

That's my vote to start! Unless we're gonna split up this way and that to do some interviews.

Successful Businessmanga fucked around with this message at 08:02 on Apr 15, 2015

Lothire
Jan 27, 2007

Rx Suicide emailed me and all I got was this amazingly awesome forum account.

Tortured By Flan

[Quilian Nailos]
HP: 10/10 | AC: 16 | HD: d10(1) | Spells [none yet] | Arrows: 30

Quilian is not entirely sure what Lars was meaning with his nod. Being friendly, he supposes, and gives a nod of his own back to the man.

Soon Sereia looks as confused as ever when she enters the place. She's still much the same, smirking at the thought. Darys is not far behind her, and Quilian soon raises an arm to them and the others as the first drink arrives - in turn, he is quick to order another. He was sure to have one prepared by the time the dwarf arrived, thinking to do any less may be taken as a sign of disrespect.

Although it seems they would not have to sit for long, as Four works his way into the Bartender. The woman doesn't so much talk as she does spill out a great deal of information. Thankfully Quilian chose this table not just for the leg room, but for it being just the right distance to hear their words without interrupting and.. Well, "cramping his style" would be an accurate phrase.

Two more drinks arrive, Quilian nodding his thanks as he takes his in hand. He speaks between swigs, trying to formulate a plan with the others on just what the next step ought to be.

"The local Lawkeeper is after sellswords, a girl who has seen a ghost, and a dwarf warning children of a plague. I imagine that last one would not be a kin of yours, Darys.." He jokes, curious how the dwarf is finding his drink.

"..I would address the local law enforcement first. However, I get the feeling neither Lars, Ursa nor Zashoon care much for authority. Sereia, I know you have some expertise with specters from our time with the Svirfneblin priest. You may be uniquely capable of figuring out if what she saw was real, and if so, Khidash may have some experience on sending such a creature back to the after-life. Then again, a plague is not something we would want to ignore, less it runs rampant amongst the populace."

Quilian would vote for the constable, but considering the party's dynamics, he essentially takes that idea off the table for now. That leaves the ghost or the plague to investigate. With Lars interested in the plague, Quilian will put his vote towards that, agreeing that in the grand scheme of problems, a plague running wild would be the most detrimental.

Dr. Doji Suave
Dec 31, 2004


Khidash Lodi
HP: 10 | AC: 15 | HD: 1/1 (1d8)
Cantrips (3) | Light, Spare the Dying, Resistance
Lvl 1 (2) | Cure Wounds (LD), Bless (LD), Healing Word, Shield of Faith, Purify Food and Drink, Sanctuary

((Sorry for the delay, hospital stuff most of yesterday so my laptop was shut. Not exactly the most graceful of posts, but I figured I should get something out to show I am alive still! :justpost: ))

The conversations that budded around Khidash were intriguing and fun to listen to while he silently gave the Red Larch a look over with his tired eyes. Traveling had always left Khidash weary, doubly so if he had been sitting for a good deal of it in a bumpy set of wagons. When four suggested going with him to the local Inn, he was all about it as he followed the group slowly in the back, giving nothing more than a simple nod to Lars who apologized for his cold demeanor during the journeys.

Upon arrival in the Inn, he noticed the group instantly split to form smaller groups. Shrugging he followed Four and stayed silent as he stood next to the suave boy working his magic on the barkeep. He kept silent as he listened to her talk, glancing to those that were off at a distance as she spoke. Eventually her run down of the local rumors ended, as Khidash leaned on the counter and turned to Four. "There are three major problems here, but the worst of them all is the plague. The undead spread the plague through physical manifestation, the spirits haunting a young one can be ignored for the time being. I suggest we follow up with these children to see if their words ring true, or if they are simply seeking the attention of their betters." Experience had shown him that children love to make up grand tales of danger to gain attention, and it was something he was willing to consider here. A backwater like Red Larch was lacking in things for children to do he figured, so what better than to explore nearby and tell tall tales? The issues with local law enforcement could wait until later, as a dying population is a population that needs little policing.

Khidash is all for looking into the plague prophecy. The constable is the job of Law, and the ghost, while serious, can wait versus the rumor of plague.

Monk E
May 19, 2009
Ursa Manuel



HP9/9, AC12, hit dice1/1, Spell Slots 1:2/2

Ursa briefly removed the tankard from her mouth long enough to reply to drunkenly chime in on the current topic "That dwarf sounds like the sort of fear mongering git who thrives in places like this probably saw how much attention the kid got and was jealous. I say we give him something to really be afraid of before he starts askin for donations or somthin." She paused for a moment as if attempting to gather her thoughts before continuing "Also helping officers of the law is a terrible idea and I propose we avoid them entirely...just to make sure we don't get roped into it you know."

voting for plague in case it wasn't clear

Waador
Sep 11, 2001

Smashin' down the light.
Pillbug
Zeshoon Four (smooth criminal)

8 / 8 HP // 14 AC
The half-elf found himself rather surprised at how keen the barkeep was to share, and he gives a series of nods and 'tell me more' non-verbal cues throughout the course of their rather one-sided conversation on the subject of the village and its personalities, as well as its woes. She just kept talking in one long incredibly unbroken sentence, moving from topic to topic so that no one had the chance to interrupt her. But really quite hypnotic.

When she finally finishes, Four responds, "Kaylessa ...what a beautiful name, by the way. That was incredibly helpful." He admits to her, "My friends and I here certainly have the look of adventurers, don't we?" He evades the subject with a laugh, instead offering, "At the very least, we're good samaritans. If you're so worried about this Lance Rock place, I'm sure we could check it out for you. Especially if you're so eager to make it worth my while." He winks, though whether it was meant to be suggestive or not is up to interpretation.

He looks to the others, many of whom seem to have been 'subtly' eavesdropping on his conversation. Except for the cleric of Lathander, who had just been looming behind him like a bodyguard the entire time. He respected the man's willingness to embrace being a little creepy, he supposed. Asking them for their preferences, he offers, "Well, it seems like Red Larch is a rather interesting town after all. How do you guys feel about going to get some cheese buns for lunch, and then go talk with those kids and their parents about this worrisome threat of a plague?" He adds, "We can figure out what they saw and heard, and if it sounds legitimate we can go check out the place." He turns back to the barkeep, "...where is Lance Rock, anyway?"

With a look to his new turban-wearing friend, he also inquires, "Do you happen to know that incantation that identifies poisonous substances and disease-ridden individuals? If there's a plague brewing in this town, I would very much prefer to quarantine and triage anyone who is already infected before it turns into a full-blown epidemic."
pre:
The 'detect poison and disease' ritual would be really nice.
He shrugs, adding, "As for the ghost stories, those might have some merit as well, though I would agree they are a slightly less tangible threat."
pre:
My vote is...
1> Get some cheese buns.
2> Interview the children and parents about Lance Rock.
3> Investigate Lance Rock.
_____________________________________________
Passive: Perception (20) / Investigation (20) / Darkvision
Other: Hit Dice (1d8 / 1d8) / Inspiration / Concentration
Faction: Harper Watcher (Rank 1) / Renown (0)
Wealth: Coins (12 gp) / Swinging Sword tab (3gp)

Waador fucked around with this message at 16:12 on Apr 13, 2015

Dr. Doji Suave
Dec 31, 2004


Khidash Lodi
HP: 10 | AC: 15 | HD: 1/1 (1d8)
Cantrips (3) | Light, Spare the Dying, Resistance
Lvl 1 (2) | Cure Wounds (LD), Bless (LD), Healing Word, Shield of Faith, Purify Food and Drink, Sanctuary

Khidash was a simple and humble man, whose talents had been put the test on several occasions over the course of his life. He knew that Four meant well in his assessment of the situation, but he was a bit taken aback by his description of what needed to happen. "Once we are in a better position to determine what is wrong, I will prepare accordingly. We did just arrive today and this is the first we have heard of this possible plague. I do agree that we should first hunker down and get some food in our bellies. After a week of trail game, I am ready for something different." His hand found his stomach as he gave it a bit of a pat, thinking back to the various morsels Lars had been preparing during their travels.

It would be nice to eat something he could trust was cooked enough to avoid having to purify it first.

Breaking rank with Four Khidash walked over the table where the rest of the travelers were seated, settling into a chair as he took care to pull his cape up to his lap so it could avoid resting against the dirty floor. The idea of a drink sounded good, but he knew that he should keep his mind clear given the situation.

"Sounds like Four has scraped us up some work, if you were able to hear from here."

The inn was fairly quiet, but he was unsure if they had caught what was said.

((Nice ST:TNG line snipped in there. I also agree with that schedule.))

Waador
Sep 11, 2001

Smashin' down the light.
Pillbug
Zeshoon Four (smooth criminal)

8 / 8 HP // 14 AC
While Khidash speaks with the others about whether to take the job or not, he continues chatting up the barkeep. "So, you've got yourself a sheriff, that Harburk fellow. Are there any other formal government positions in the town? A mayor, or something? Maybe a judge?" He shrugs, admitting, "It never hurts to be familiar with who the people in power are, and how they got that way."
_____________________________________________
Passive: Perception (20) / Investigation (20) / Darkvision
Other: Hit Dice (1d8 / 1d8) / Inspiration / Concentration
Faction: Harper Watcher (Rank 1) / Renown (0)
Wealth: Coins (12 gp) / Swinging Sword tab (3gp)

Lothire
Jan 27, 2007

Rx Suicide emailed me and all I got was this amazingly awesome forum account.

Tortured By Flan

[Quilian Nailos]
HP: 10/10 | AC: 16 | HD: d10(1) | Spells [none yet] | Arrows: 30

Quilian grins as the cleric joins them. "His words are as quick as his feet." Would he be as quick under the pressure of combat, the elf wondered. That rapier at his hip ought not be for show alone.

At least those talents will be further utilized, as it seems they'll be investigating the plague problem first. Quilian's cup runs dry, and once again he finds himself less effected by the brew than he'd prefer. No matter, his happiness is not found at the bottom of a mug.

A gold coin from his pocket is placed on the table. A tip for the maid, and perhaps help cover the costs - their group is rather large after all. Safety in numbers. "The folks at Helvur Tarnlar's shop will have more information before we set out." He takes his leave of the table, gesturing for the distant Lars to follow, though the man likely heard all of the talk and is making his own preparations.

Quilian stands outside the Inn while the group partakes of their meals and the like, stretching and enjoying the weather for however long it will last before setting off to the clothing shop.

Lothire fucked around with this message at 00:08 on Apr 14, 2015

Successful Businessmanga
Mar 28, 2010


Name: Lars Borikfikod Faction- Emerald Enclave: Rank 1 Renown 0
HP:11/11 AC::14 HD:1/1 (d10) Movement: 30' Arrows: 40

Lars almost misses Quillian's gesture as he drains the rest of the tankard in front of him but there it is, standing he steps over to Ursa and gives her a pat on the shoulder "Gonna go see what that one's up to" he jerks his thumb back towards Quillian's who's leaving the building "you with or you gonna stay and have some more fun here?" Questioned placed he the few coppers he can spare on the table, certainly enough to cover his own drink, and takes off after Quillian stopping for a moment to shake his head at the full gold left on the table.

As he exits he reaches into his pocket and removed a small glass orb the inside filled with a smoke that dances around inside colours shifting this way and that, it rolls across his fingers back and forth a few times his eyes focusing in on it the habit calming him down some.

Lars stashes the orb as he walks up to chiming in "if you're ever in a city like waterdeep or Athkatla you really ought not flash your coin around like that it'll end up with you getting stabbed in the street, the coin between you and that Four fella would have been enough to buy several gallons of drink*, good on you for helping country folk out but folks in the city aren't so keen on pity." Shaking his head Lars shrugs, his assessment of Quillian as a mark over Lars waves his hand off to the side dropping the issue "What do you need?"

*20 specifically! :v:

Dr. Doji Suave posted:

Khidash Lodi
His hand found his stomach as he gave it a bit of a pat, thinking back to the various morsels Lars had been preparing during their travels.

It would be nice to eat something he could trust was cooked enough to avoid having to purify it first.

So mean Khidash :ohdear: Lars is a great cook haha, I took the skilled feat at creation specifically so he'd have the cooking proficiency, everything is cooked to perfection! Until I start cooking with weird things and making rolls to see how well it turns out then it's up in the air.

Successful Businessmanga fucked around with this message at 08:02 on Apr 15, 2015

Trast
Oct 20, 2010

Three games, thousands of playthroughs. 90% of the players don't know I exist. Still a redhead saving the galaxy with a [Right Hook].

:edi:

Darys Stoneback
[HP: 13/13] [AC: 17]
Hit Dice: 0/1 (D10)
Movement: 25ft
Full Equipment List and Funds
Backstory

Elven vintages

As Sereia goes into details about the wines and champagnes he takes out a small notebook and starts jotting down notes in it. He does look up long enough to see her toss a look at Quilian when she mentions that the more expensive spirits aren't to her liking. That got a chuckle out of the dwarf.

Lars

Something about Lars' accent was digging at the back of Darys' brain. He'd heard that kind of speech before in the army. But except for some elven and human mercenaries all he'd served with were fellow dwarves. He'd have to think on it and try to remember which of the men sounded like him.

Quest Hub Inn

Darys was content to let the chatty elves do the investigating when they entered the inn. Strangers didn't tend to open up quite as much to dwarves as they did to humans and the fey folks. He was content to drink the ale Four had graciously paid for and listen to what was going on around him. He saw Quilian eyeing his mug and remembered what the lad has said about fair ale and fair taverns. "It's a fair ale," he said to him. "But something seems a touch off about it. If its local brew they might have had a poor harvest of wheat. Maybe what troubles this place extends to their crops as well." It was something to consider beyond the brew in his mug. It was enough trouble if there were bandits and monsters running amok in the countryside. But if something more was distressing the very land then it was a more serious situation.

The others returned from their investigations and joined the rest of them at the table. It seems that the barmaid that Four had been chatting up had been a wealth of information. Funny though he noticed that Four seemed to want to do something more than just chat with the lass behind the counter. What he and the others had learned seemed to take Four's attention from the barmaid and to the business at hand. They'd discovered a great deal of odd goings on in the town of Red Larch. Ghost stories, plagues, strange happenings at a place called Lance Rock.

"Well it seems like we've arrived just time time and with plenty to do. That plague business does sound serious if it true. Anyone who's been in the army knows that disease is just as dangerous as the enemy is." He nods Sereia's way. "Strange that a dwarf would be wandering around and frightening children about it. My kind are made of strong stuff but know well enough to go seeking a healer when illness is about. And I seriously doubt this dwarf is any of my kin. We're a far ways away from the Stoneback Mines and I don't think any of my kin were as keen to go off adventuring as I was. One of you mentioned a shrine nearby. Any priest worth their beads is gonna' hear the word plague and go searching it out. They might have more information worth knowing. The ghost story and the troubles at that Lance Rock might all be related."

Darys pauses to finish finish his mug, setting it down with an empty thump. "Now I get the feelin' you're all eager to go get to the bottom of this plague business. But it might be a good idea to go see this Constable before we go running off headlong into trouble. He may be looking for adventurers but its still his town. He might not take kindly to the lot of us rushing around and causin' a ruckus even if we're doing good. And it stands to reason if the man is any good at his job he might know more about all the other troubles the lass behind the counter told you all about." He notices some of the tense looks on the faces around the table when he brings up the Constable. "Seeing as some of you might not be too keen to be chatting up the town guard I don't mind going myself and lettin' the Constable know what we're up to. He's looking for adventurers and seeing an old sergeant like myself should put the man at ease that we aren't going to bust up the town." Then a thought comes to him that he chooses not to speak out loud. "Well, at least we won't be tryin' to bust the place up on purpose." :ssh:

Darys sees the plague being the biggest danger out of the issues you all brought up. He wants to make a stop and speak to the Constable before we start running about though so we don't step on any toes. Anyone can offer to come along with him to see the Constable or he can go by himself. If talking to the Constable matters to you pipe in and I'm happy to wait a bit before I write anything along that line.

Monk E
May 19, 2009
Ursa Manuel



HP9/9, AC12, hit dice1/1, Spell Slots 1:2/2

"geeze Lars didn't even give me a chance to finish my drink" Ursa shouted in the general direction of the door half running half stumbling out the building "Granted that may have been for the best another round and I wouldn't have made to the door" upon catching up to the two she interjected "So I assume we aren't going on a shopping run whats our plan of attack? "

Ryuujin
Sep 26, 2007
Dragon God
The Singing Sword

Kaylessa blinks a bit at Four's wink, then begins to blush a little. "Oh my! I hadn't met that way you naughty boy. I meant a monetary reward." She does eye Four again. "Let's keep things professional...for now." Perhaps she will be amendable to a change of situations, later on when she gets a chance to know Four and the others, but for now she isn't offering what Folur might have been thinking.

She quickly gives him directions to the Bakery when he asks. When he asks about officials she responds. "No mayor or judge. We do have Elders though. Ilmeth Waelvur, Albaeri Mellikho, and Ulhro Luruth are our town elders."

Okay so are you moving directly to the Bakery? Splitting up so some go to the Bakery for lunch and others go to the Constable? Or all going to the Bakery for lunch, then splitting up for some to go to the Constable and some go to Helvur Tarnlar?

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Dr. Doji Suave
Dec 31, 2004


Khidash Lodi
HP: 10 | AC: 15 | HD: 1/1 (1d8)
Cantrips (3) | Light, Spare the Dying, Resistance
Lvl 1 (2) | Cure Wounds (LD), Bless (LD), Healing Word, Shield of Faith, Purify Food and Drink, Sanctuary

The idea of food freshly baked in an actual oven was tempting for the cleric, but ultimately his sense of justice and keeping the peace was stronger. "Lathander will guide my hunger some other time, I agree with you Darys. We should check with the constable before we try any other leads." He watched as the others slowly split off to do their own investigations, surprised at the immediate split. "Let's hope that this sort of behavior is curbed once we start to see our enemies laid before us." His tone was dry and to the point as he let out a small, but audible sigh from behind his mask. "Regardless Darys, we should seek counsel with the constable in case he has any information on this plague. As town marshal I suspect he has detailed records and charts." His attention turned to Four briefly as he started to leave the establishment. "The food will have to wait for me, I find that my duties are more important than fresh rolls. Please enjoy your lunch and I wish you the best of luck with the local stock." His sentence was ended with a wink as he gave a soft chuckle as the door slammed shuit behind him, waiting outside for Darys to catch up.

"Yes, let's mate with a possible plague victim..." he muttered as he leaned against the wall and took a drink out of his canteen.

Khidash is willing to go with Darys, he's a man of action and it looks like the others have their plan set in stone.

Dr. Doji Suave fucked around with this message at 02:40 on Apr 14, 2015

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