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Ozzy_G
2009-01-10, 01:47 PM
The night is hot and cloudless, the air heavy beneath cold uncaring stars. In the town of Bemin, beggars huddle beneath bridges and eaves, in doorways and alleys, hoping they will be left alone.
Houses on the outskirts of town are locked up tight, dogs sleeping at the feet of their masters' beds, ready to spring to alert.
In the centre of town, dirty light shines through the windows of rowdy taverns, the regulars drinking hard, listening to too-frantic music, trying to ward away their fear.
Groups of soldiers roam the streets suspiciously, bearing the livery of the Archmage of Sarin. Their hands are on their vicious-looking weapons. Although they do not seem to molest anyone, the fear of the locals scurrying past them is palpable in the air, like a miasma.
Outside the Blue Boar, two drunken men wrestle in the mud over incoherent insults while another three watch impassively.
Behind them, the sound of raucous music drifts out of the large, dirty tavern. A girl sings a lewd song about a wizard and his staff, to the laughs of the drunken patrons.
Inside, you see them, sitting at their grubby tables, muttering and chuckling. Mostly rough looking mercenaries and tough dockworkers, they swill their strong ale and play cards for coins. Most sport the open-chested shirts with bands of sigils down the front that are the fashion in Qusa. Some have grubby and hard-faced women with them, maybe their wives, maybe whores.
But the Qusans are not the only men here. Mokai, Davethrans, a hulking Dar Ven, a man sporting the tattoos of the Dragon Clans, they're all the same, down on their luck and drunk.
In one corner sit a group of heavily cloaked men with large packs of supplies, talking quietly. Only one man's face is visible from the rest of the room, as he looks out at his companions, a scarred and rough-looking Davethran with an eyepatch.
The barmen is a bald man with no neck, resembling some orc barbarian far more than the sophisticated nobles of Davethra who share his species. He watches the singing girl, a malnourished-looking waif, carefully, glaring at any of the men who look like they're getting too friendly to her.
In another corner sit two men, one not very visible due to the poor light, the other a man who looks somewhat out of place. A clean, precise-looking man in his 50s, wearing spectacles, marking him as someone of reasonable wealth, watches the room carefully, looking for someone.

The Great Skenardo
2009-01-10, 04:15 PM
Jackel
Jackel makes his way down the rancid street, whistling a carefree tune as he goes. The Mokai man isn't all that tall for his race, but standing next to him you would never believe it was so; his presence is almost palpable.
He has a cruel handsomeness about him, with an angular face and a well-kept beard, and his black hair hangs in short curls about his ears, except for a patch on his forehead, where there is a patch of lighter scar tissue instead of dark, coffee-colored skin.
He jangles slightly as he walks, which speaks to chain mail beneath the tattered frock coat wrapped close about his broad shoulders. A heavy, curved blade hangs across his back; only sensible to be armed on these streets.
Jackel pauses before the sign of the Blue Boar, watching the wrestling for a bit, smirking. Finally, he pushes open the door with the toe of his boot and steps inside, his brown eyes lazily flicking from place to place until they alight on the singing girl. He watches for a while, a predatory smile on his face. If he's noticed the man with the spectacles, he's made no mention of it for now.

knewsom
2009-01-10, 05:02 PM
Runa Redgrave

A keen eye might have caught the flash of a blond lock of hair, a glance from a blue irised eye, or the shine of pale skin from beneath the hood of the slender cloaked figure that walked through the door, but most would not have thought twice about the figure who entered shortly after the Mokai man.

Her gaze took in her surroundings, pausing for a brief disdainful moment at the waiflike singer, dark hair framing her soft brownskinned face as she sang. Look how they stare. They must look in the mirror as hungrily.

Her gaze continued across the other patrons as she paced slowly through the crowded tavern.

She stopped suddenly and approached the men in the corner, ignoring the bespectacled man who looked so out of place in favor of the shadowed one behind him. She stood there for a moment, as if to be sure of who she found, before withdrawing her hood, revealing long wavy blonde locks of hair, chiseled and beautiful features, and piercing blue eyes. Anyone who didn't give her a second thought before will probably now change their minds. She was tall for a Kumari, but she was a northerner nonetheless.

The young Kumari woman smiled (though it looked like more of a smirk on her cold visage), and spoke in flawless Davethran, her voice is slightly low for a woman's, but you're not sure whether to find it sultry or threatening. "Hello Verlyn."

Lycar
2009-01-10, 06:03 PM
Verlyn

The man's face is still not to be seen but his voice is to be made out as he speaks up.

"Hello Runa. It has been a while. Glad you could make it. Come, have a seat. "

His voice is deep and resonant, hinting at a fairly broad build. The hand he uses to gesture at the chair next to his place is illuminated for a moment.

The skin has the bronze tone of a Davethran and it looks like it belongs to a fairly big man. The ring finger bears a ring with an emerald.

The hand belongs to an arm, and the arm sticks in the sleeve of what appears to be pretty fancy clothing. Those gold linings don't come cheap.

The arm and hand disappear into the shadows again.

"Don't be shy. You know I don't bite."

This, however, sounded almost like a purr.

Lycar

NobleSavage
2009-01-10, 09:44 PM
Reyhan Ilsombreh

"Aaaahh," the bemoaned, though somehow good natured cry comes from one of the more boisterous card tables, as a small Davethran man rakes in an unusually large pot . "May the grey god of murder and the blank-masked bitch fight over your soul this very night! You have ruined me, Ignacio!" the flustered Shavaran posting his blind without a pause, reloading his small stack of silver pieces from an inner pocket. Despite the ruckus, there seem to be more smiles at this table than at any of the others, due in part to the man, a Shavaran looking more the part of a merchant than a scarred warrior or work hardened laborer. Due as well, to the man's money, which had leaked, sometimes gushed, toward the other players.

The game continued, the Shavaran muttering as the dealer slung the cards around. Looking at his hand, the man made a face, then rapped them on the table once before checking them again. Obviously disgusted he slapped them down, squirming in his seat. "You too, Daneel?" He said as the man to his left raised in the first round of betting. "Gahh, filth!" he wailed, "Deal me out this next hand, I'll need a drink to regain my focus." Pushing his cards toward the center he slid from his chair and made his way to the bar. "These hyenas, Jerrod, these jackals, they pick at me." He was average height, average build as well, though there seemed a resiliency to his frame that had become a trademark of the Shavarans as of late. In the better illumination, though, one could see this man was not of pure Shavaran blood. His skin was a touch darker than the usual dusky tone, and wisps of odd, smokey hair curled out from under a small headwrap, sometimes appearing to flow right through the cloth. His face, too, was unlike most Shavarans, unlike many humans, even, cheekbones high and angled in and a carnivorous set to his eyes. The laughing purple irises were common enough, though, and such was the man's way with words that most were put at ease despite his exotic blend of features.

"Adoniah, my friend," he called to the bartender, "an ale if you will, and" he continued raising his voice, "for my friends at that cursed table over there. Except-" he pauses, jabbing a finger at the small Davethran man who was scooping in another pot, "except for him! I've already bought him many rounds of drinks with that last hand!" Half turning, the man relents, "Alright, alright, him too! Maybe I can win some of my hard earned money back if he's" the Shavaran mimes taking a swig from a bottle, wobbling around for a moment.

Settling, he sips from his ale, taking a moment to look around the room. Several tables and booths had changed occupants since he had first arrived, and while he had been careful to note them as they came in, the man looked at each new party once more. Not quite a regular, the man had been here for the past few nights, both in his current form and in others. The Blue Boar was not a bad place to be known and trusted, or thought of as harmless as it were, if one was looking for information.

"Adoniah," he spoke to the barman once more, voice lower, more controlled as he leaned in, ""tell me of our friends here in these corners, both of them."

knewsom
2009-01-10, 10:47 PM
Runa didn't hesitate at the offer of a comfortable seat, and parted her cloak as she sat, revealing what resembled the garb of a wizard, though somewhat more form-fitting and practical - it gave her an air of capability, and it complimented her slender figure nicely. It was also finely adorned, but with silver rather than gold.

She raised an eyebrow in Verlyn's direction; so... he knew.

"Yes, wouldn't miss it. So... how's your father?"

The Great Skenardo
2009-01-10, 11:43 PM
Jackel
The Mokai's attention shifts abruptly from the singing girl as Runa enters the room. Still leaning against a post, He watches her out of the corner of his eyes, a slight grin turning up one corner of his mouth. After a moment, his brow furrows, and he squints, turning more fully towards the corner occupied by the small group. He scratches his short, curly beard thoughtfully.

Lycar
2009-01-11, 05:23 AM
Verlyn

There is a small pause, as if the man has to weight his words carefully.

"Last time I've seen him, he was well enough. Of course, as a Magus, he always has his hands full with.. politics. "

"But enough about me. How has life been treating you? I must admit, I am a bit shocked to see that you didn't seize control of a small empire already apparently."

Again with the purring quality of the voice. It doesn't sound mocking, more amused.

Lycar

Ozzy_G
2009-01-11, 07:25 AM
The spectacled older man next to Verlyn nods his greetings to Runa. He looks about the room.

The barman nods to the merchant, and says in a low voice Well, them two in the corner, with the lady, they've been in town a couple of days I think. That older man with the spectacles, he's been looking for people to hire as bodyguards for a trip. I'm pretty sure the other guy is a Davethran noble, but I ain't seen him do any magic. Them in the other corner, they don't speak much to others, them four are also going on a trip I think, they've been buying provisions and tools and stuff. Bit intimidating, but they tip well, you know?

knewsom
2009-01-11, 01:41 PM
Runa forced a pained smile.

"Empires are... overrated. Glad to hear your family is well. How many are you expecting?"

Ozzy_G
2009-01-11, 03:01 PM
The spectacled servant interrupts. I met a cleric, who said she would come, and bring another guy. He raises a hand. Not, I assure you, a cleric of the Elder Gods. No, it's Calamesh. You know, the storm God that caused all the quakes sixty years ago? Before I was born. Anyway, there's them, and also a Mokai warrior. He should be useful, since we're going through Mokai territory. I speak Mokai, but they're likely to be more amenable to one of their own.

Lycar
2009-01-11, 03:22 PM
Verlyn

"Two or three more then. I wonder what the cleric will be like. Calamesh is a pretty... straightforeward god. Or so I've heard."

After a short pause, the man goes on.
"Out of curiousity, do you still have that rapier of yours? Is it still for looks only or did you actually train with it?"

Lycar

The Great Skenardo
2009-01-11, 04:56 PM
Jackel
The swarthy man spits over his shoulder, then squares his shoulders and approaches the table. He throws himself into a chair, and brushes his nose with a grubby finger.
"Hey. I'm here. You all here for the escort thing, too?" His manner is confident, but his voice sounds as if he bears each and every one of you an invisible grudge.

knewsom
2009-01-11, 06:23 PM
Runa raised an eyebrow at with the talk of Calamesh, obviously intrigued, but didn't mention it.

"Oh, just a last line of defense more than anything else. Magic is still of course my most useful tool. But yes, I can use it, when I need to."

As the Mokai man sat, Runa straightened, her cold beauty meeting the chip on his shoulder with one of her own made from glacial ice.

"And you are?"

The Great Skenardo
2009-01-11, 06:36 PM
Jackel
A little warmth creeps into the Mokai man's manner as Runa makes her reply.
"Heh. I'm Jackel, and I'm going to be keeping y'all safe." He cracks his knuckles noisily and leans back a little in his seat, resting a worn boot on the edge of the table.
He offers a lazy salute to the man in spectacles.

Ozzy_G
2009-01-11, 07:43 PM
The servant, Kohan nods, you get the impression he is slightly irritated from his pursed lips. Ah yes, Mr... Jackel, was it? He waves to the relaxed man next to him. This is my master, Verlyn of House Stillwater. He turns to Verlyn. This man, despite his, uh, unique manner, will I think be very useful to us, my lord. As a Mokai he will make it much easier for us to travel through Mokai territory.

The Great Skenardo
2009-01-11, 08:00 PM
Jackel
Jackel sniffs. "Well, uh, I guess it'd be Mr. Betruger. Jackel Betruger." The last is said a little sullenly, as if grudging the admission.
"And yeah, I'm Mokai. Didn't know I was gonna be escorting a bunch of toffs, but whatever; I'll get you where you're going."

NobleSavage
2009-01-11, 08:08 PM
Reyhan Ilsombreh



The barman nods to the merchant, and says in a low voice Well, them two in the corner, with the lady, they've been in town a couple of days I think. That older man with the spectacles, he's been looking for people to hire as bodyguards for a trip. I'm pretty sure the other guy is a Davethran noble, but I ain't seen him do any magic. Them in the other corner, they don't speak much to others, them four are also going on a trip I think, they've been buying provisions and tools and stuff. Bit intimidating, but they tip well, you know?

Bobbing his head in agreement Reyhan scans the room once more. "I do," reaching into his pocket once more he retrieves several pieces of gold. He nods at the barkeep once before taking another thoughtful sip from his mug. "If you hear anything new I'd appreciate it if you'd pass it along." Leaning back, he takes on a contemplative air, running scenarios through his head while still staying alert for his contact. Hope she gets here soon...

Lycar
2009-01-11, 08:11 PM
Verlyn

"Of course he is. Otherwise you wouldn't even have considered him for hire." Verlyn says, with a bit of warmth in his voice. Maybe he likes Kohan. The warmth is all but gone when he goes on though. "The mokai are a proud people. Always straight to the point, no false pretense... if this one fights as well as he thinks he does, we should all be save."

"Besides, he certainly will remind us to observe the customs of his people when we travel through Mokan, isn't that right, Jackel?"

Lycar

The Great Skenardo
2009-01-11, 08:56 PM
Jackel Betruger
Jackel laughs.
"Heh. It don't really matter; you've breaking a lot of 'em just being what you are. But long as I'm around, there shouldn't be no trouble at all; I'll take care of you and your lady."
The Mokai shrugs, and then a gleam enters his eye.
"So...Where are you headed?"

Toliudar
2009-01-11, 09:28 PM
Dion Brank

A tall red-haired woman dressed in tight-fitted red and black plate armour clanks into the common area with a clatter. She is clearly distracted, and glances back out through the doorway before closing the portal. She takes a deep breath and scans the room. Zoning in immediately on Reyhan, she cuts a direct path over to the bar. Nodding curtly to get the barman's attention, she speaks with all the subtlety of an oxcart.

Beer me, Adoniah. I'm parched.

Dropping her voice a decibel without glancing at Reyhan next to her, Dion murmurs.

You made contact with our new boss yet?

NobleSavage
2009-01-11, 10:18 PM
Reyhan

"Mmmmmm," he murmurs, half growls. "Haven't been approached, if thats what you're asking. Never did get a description. Got two possibilities in the corners, there. Care to lead the way?"

Toliudar
2009-01-11, 11:40 PM
Dion

The priestess notes the huskiness in her companion's tone, but says nothing about it. As her drink arrives, she scans the tables for their would-be contractor.

Ozzy_G
2009-01-12, 06:27 AM
Although Dion does not know who the noble she's supposed to meet is, she does recognise his servant who spoke to her before in one corner, with three other people. One sits at an angle she can't really make out, one is a Mokai, and the other, utterly bizarrely, looks like a Kumari, with blonde hair and everything. She's a long way from home.
The other corner that Reyhan pointed out is a table of four cloaked, burly men with large packs. They neither look like her employers, or very hospitable.
She also notices that she's getting a fair few looks from drunken tavern patons, but what do you expect?
The barman gives Dion a pint of ale, as she looks out over the room. He nods to Reyhan. If I see anything else, I'll tell you, he mutters.

Toliudar
2009-01-12, 08:11 AM
Dion

Dion juts her chin in the direction of the mixed-bag band. She collects her drink and slides a coin across the bar.

I think I recognize the lackey over there. Shall we?

As Reyhan assents, Dion sips her beer and strides over to the table with their employer's messenger. At least, she hoped that he would become their employer. There weren't THAT many more coins jingling around.

At the table, she hoists her glass in a kind of greeting.

Hey. This a private party, or can anyone join in?

The Great Skenardo
2009-01-12, 08:36 AM
Jackel
Jackel tilts his chair back a bit, tilting his head back as well to meet the newcomer's game, albeit upside-down.
"Party? You don't look like you want a party, sweetheart." His brown eyes flicker across her tightly-armored body, and then the same grin turns up one corner of his mouth.
"Nice armor."
With a jolt, he lets the chair back forwards and swivels. He scoots the chair backwards a little, to let his new employers get a good look at the newcomer.

Lycar
2009-01-12, 01:51 PM
Verlyn


Hey. This a private party, or can anyone join in?

The man in the shadows answers immediately "Private party, invitation only. Maybe you have one my Lady?"

It's impossible to tell, since the man still sits in the dark, but this seem to have been directed more at his servant then at the armoured woman.

Lycar

NobleSavage
2009-01-12, 02:01 PM
Reyhan

Trailing the woman, Reyhan makes his stroll nonchalant. So, bodyguard it is. Little different, but I should be able to provide a unique perspective. The man smiles.

Taking in the group, Reyhan stands a little behind and to the side of Dion. Holding his mug low he absently swirls his ale, fingertips splayed about its diameter clasping it by the lip. Wry grin snaking across his face, the man shrugs, "Ah, I believe that would make me her plus one then? Reyhan Ilsombreh, at your service." Stepping forward he looks as if he would like to offer his hand to someone, but isn't quite sure who to address. Contenting himself with a curt bow to the group he takes a half step back to stand even with his contact.

knewsom
2009-01-12, 03:46 PM
Runa Redgrave

'Jackel...?!' And I thought MY parents were cruel.

Runa cracked a polite smile.

"Well Dion, Reyhan," An eyebrow raised, "...Jackel. Well met all of you. I trust you were informed the basics of our mission, I'll let our employer convey more detail, should he be so inclined."

Lycar
2009-01-12, 05:18 PM
Verlyn

"Indeed. Now that all the guests have arrived, we should get our little party started. However, first we should do away with the introductions. We should all go around and tell each others our names and, as the case may be, titles we hold and with which we expect be be adressed and of course our given special skills. So that everbody knows who is the scout and who is the medic. That sort of thing."

"Kohan, why don't you do the honours and go first?"

Lycar

Ozzy_G
2009-01-12, 08:52 PM
Ah, yes, says the balding middle-aged man, pushing his spectacles back up his nose slightly nervously. He bows forward slightly. His body is thin, his fingers delicate and inkstained, his clothes of middling quality. Well, my name is Kohan. I am the group's treasurer. I'll be paying the money out, I'll be hiring a ship, and so on. Um... I do speak Mokai and Dar Ven, which will be useful.

Toliudar
2009-01-13, 11:55 AM
Dion


"Party? You don't look like you want a party, sweetheart."

Dion grins lopsidedly, and steps into some of the space that Jackal's move provides for her and Reyhan. Her assessment of him is frank and approving.

Oh, I think I'm all the party you can handle, bud.

Runa's addressing Dion and Reyhan by name brings a sharp look of surprise to her face and she wheels to stare at the petite woman.

Yeah? We met before, sweetie? I'm usually pretty good with faces.

She sits, clearly still perturbed, but drinks back half of her beer as Kohan speaks.

Well, as missy here said, I'm Dion. I'm...crackly. Oh, and I guess it won't come in too handy round here, but my Shi Lun is pretty good. Accent's crap, but it's a bloody hard language.

The Great Skenardo
2009-01-13, 12:18 PM
Jackel Betruger

Verlyn

" We should all go around and tell each others our names and, as the case may be, titles we hold and with which we expect be be addressed and of course our given special skills. So that everybody knows who is the scout and who is the medic. That sort of thing."

Jackel snickers. "Sure thing, sure thing. Heh." He turns in his seat to face Dion and Reyhan.
"Hello class, my name's Mr. Betruger. But y'all can call me Jackel. We're gonna be real good friends, I can tell. I'm escort an' bodyguard on this trip. Anyone wants a personal escort or wants their body taken special care of, well...Talk to me later."
He laughs, slapping the grubby floor with the heel of his boot.
"Anyways... I'm a damn good warrior, and I've got a certain way with finding out what I want to know."

knewsom
2009-01-13, 02:53 PM
Runa smiled politely.

"Met? No, I know you only by reputation. A small town like this, there are only so many clerics of Calamesh, ever fewer with friends named Reyhan, and you know... people talk."

She remained seated for her own introduction.

"I see we have plenty of brawn in this group... I will of course be providing arcane support and subterfuge. I'm afraid I don't speak Mokai, but I do speak Dwarven, Draconic, Infernal, and Kumari, in addition to Davethran. My name... is Runa Redgrave."

NobleSavage
2009-01-13, 04:10 PM
Reyhan

Behind the smiling illusion the demonic mouth scowled. I am friends with her? Unacceptable. She should be friends with me.

"That would make me Reyan, Reyan Ilsombreh." Dipping into a low bow, he takes a moment to look around for some sign of recognition. Vaguely disappointed with the result, he shrugs and continues. "I have many friends, got the gift, I suppose. I'm pretty good at picking up on local customs, too, which looks like it could be an asset where we're going. Um..." he bobs his head about as if thinking "I'd like to say I can hold my own in combat, but I'm not sure I'd measure up to the rest of you..." he smiles a bit sheepishly. "I'm good at finding things?" he almost asks, "Friends, though" he states more assertively, "I am good at making friends." Piquing his eyebrows, he looks around at the rest of the group.

The Great Skenardo
2009-01-13, 04:18 PM
Jackel
Jackel squints at the seeming-merchant, his lips moving as if trying to work something out.
" Uh...Huh."
The Mokai man folds his hands over his stomach for a moment, watching Reyhan closely. It's clear he's not taking the merchant's words at face value, and his gaze is once more one that seems to harbor some invisible grudge.
Almost as quickly as it comes, the look melts into an easy smile. He winks at Dion.
"Takes all types, I guess. So what's our first move, Boss?"
This last is addressed to the man in the shadows.

Lycar
2009-01-13, 05:04 PM
Verlyn

(All right, here it comes. easy now. Don't screw this up now...)

"Ah Master Betruger, so eager to earn your reward. But we haven't quite finished introductions, now have we..."

The man leans foreward, thereby allowing more light to fall upon him and thus revealing himself to the gathered party. He looks like a Davethran all right. Bronze skin, black hair and all. Except that, while most Davethrans tend to have little hair, this one has strong and thick hair. His eyes are of a deep green which, maybe only on second though, seems to be just a bit too brilliant to be entirely human.

Apart from that, he looks completely human. Aren't davethran nobles supposed to be the unholy spawn of demons and dragons and whatnot?

Of course, as soon as he starts speaking again, the more observant might notice that his canines are just a bit too pointy to be entirely ... well, you get the idea.

Now that more of him is revealed, the fine garb he wears appears to have the cut and style of a courtier's outfit. While his robe sports red or reddish tones as the prominent colour, hinting at his status among the davethran mage caste, he seems to favour emeralds for his jewelry. In additon to the ring on his right hand, he wears a signet ring on his left and also ear studs, a necklace and, is this a golden armband?

A slight stiffness and the soft tinkle of metal hint at some kind of armour under his robes. At his right side, the handle of a dagger or other short blade protrudes from his belt, adorned with a crystal the colour of a cloudless sky.

Although it is hard to tell with him sitting down, he seems to be tall and his broad chest and deep, resonant voice hint at some upper body strength.

"My turn now. I am Verlyn Felyx Stillwater, of House Stillwater. That makes me a noble and it makes you adress me as Lord Stillwater."

He rolls his eyes a bit and makes a dismissive gesture with his hands.

"And if you fail to adress me by my proper title, I shall have to draw your blood to avenge the insult, yadda yadda .. you are all professionals, you know the spiel. If you have trouble remembering this though, think of how it may be Kohan who hands you your money after we get back here, but it will be me who actually tells him who to pay."

Leaning back again, Verlyn adds "And it also means that you will protect him as much as you will protect me. More so even. As for our mission: I am on a .. quest if you will. We will cross the Bitter Sea and travel to the city of Kael Rekan. Where Master Jackel will ensure that we do get to replenish our supplies unmolested."

"From there we travel due east to Mount Keshra. That is Dar Ven territory. They have some peculiar traditions regarding strangers, which we do not want to learn about personally. There is a place I need to visit."

"Once I am finished there, we go all the way back we came to Bemin. We all safely arrive back here, you get paid. Questions?"

Lycar

The Great Skenardo
2009-01-13, 05:23 PM
Jackel Betruger
Jackel's grin freezes for a moment as the introduction of their employer is finally made. A strange gleam enters his eye.
"That...a ...fact?" he manages "A-heh. Heh-heh."
He swallows, and abruptly he relaxes, draping his shoulders across the back of the chair he now lounges in.
"Sure, your Lordship. Ain't no trouble at all. Heh." Jackel pats his dusty black frock coat, as if looking for something, until he finally pulls out a battered pad of paper and a stub of charcoal.
"Just a sec." he scribbles something down, and then replaces charcoal and paper back in a pocket.
"Okay. So... When you wanna leave?"

Toliudar
2009-01-13, 06:40 PM
Dion

Dion focuses on the long, lean drink of water from Davethra, their real employer on the gig, it seemed. She seems to be fumbling for some detail, but shakes it off as he speaks. Her voice softens into the cultured tones of a court-trained Davethran noble.

My Lord, I'm assuming that My Lord will of course be covering travelling expenses for we, his humblest servants. Will he not, my Lord?

A flicker of a smile is visible as she dips her head down down, her hair covering her face.

Lycar
2009-01-13, 07:09 PM
Verlyn

Verlyn sighs "Expenses, yes. A little up-front payment as a token of good faith. Of course you won't require too much. Poor Kohan likes to keep our gold together and only parts with it under duress. Or on a direct order. So Kohan, if you please... "

Verlyn makes a sweeping gesture, encompassing the entire party. Kohan won't be happy. Poor guy.

Lycar

Ozzy_G
2009-01-13, 07:21 PM
Kohan looks slightly disgruntled, but masks it. Of course, my lord, he says sweetly. He pulls up a rucksack. It doesn't really look anywhere big enough to have all the gold you've been told you'll be paid. How much shall I give them now? Remember that I booked passage for us earlier today, and that includes food across the sea, my lord.

knewsom
2009-01-13, 07:27 PM
Dion
My Lord, I'm assuming that My Lord will of course be covering travelling expenses for we, his humblest servants. Will he not, my Lord?

A spark appears in Runa's eyes - anger perhaps for such insolence? No... something else... The corners of her mouth twist upward in a quiet smile of amusement. Anytime a Noble is a minority in company is a GOOD time.

The Great Skenardo
2009-01-13, 07:34 PM
Jackel Betruger
Jackel twiddles his thumbs, but his gaze fixes upon the satchel of coins, avarice in his eyes.

Lycar
2009-01-14, 02:11 PM
Verlyn

Verlyn waves dismissivly at his aide.

"Relax Kohan. It is just a token of good faith. After all, you would not hire someone who is so poorly equipped, that he, or she, would need substantial funding to be considered fit for the job, now would you. Give them whatever you feel in your heart is appropriate."

Casting a glance around the group he adds "... unless any of you feel you are inadequate for the job?"

"Oh sorry, I meant to say 'inadequatly equipped' of course."

Lycar

The Great Skenardo
2009-01-14, 06:51 PM
Jackel
Jackel scratches his short curly beard, and smiles a wolfish smile.
"Your Lordship. Folks have called me a lot of different names, but no one's ever called me inadequate. And I mean no-one."
He bounces his heel against the floor, and his gaze returns to the satchel of coins.

Ozzy_G
2009-01-14, 10:18 PM
Kohan reaches into his bag and starts to count out coins. I'll give them 100 gold coins each my lord, he says, that's a lot of money. Assuming that is, that they will be coming.

The Great Skenardo
2009-01-14, 10:23 PM
Jackel Betruger
Jackel reaches out and takes the 100 gold coins slowly, almost languorously.
"Ahh...Say what you like, a noble's most always good for it. Thanks."
Filtering the gold into a worn purse in a breast pocket, Jackel smiles a little wider. There's still something in his eyes that isn't simple pleasure or even greed. Mischief? Madness?

Toliudar
2009-01-15, 01:44 PM
Dion

The redheaded woman is quick enough to take her pile of coins, counting it at the table before sliding it into her belt sack.

Ah, so THAT's what a noble's good for, Jackal. Thanks for clearing that up.

She smiles at Verlyn.

Don't get me wrong, Lord. I appreciate this, and it'll take care of one or two minor inconveniences before we leave in the morning. But, my Lord, I was kind of meaning expenses along the way - inns, transportation...bandages. That kind of thing, Lord. And it sounds like your man Kohan here has that well in hand as well, Lord, so I'm happy.

As if demonstrating, she drains off another portion of her beer.

Lycar
2009-01-15, 02:56 PM
Verlyn

Verlyn ignores Jackel and smiles at Dion instead "I am glad to hear that. And yes, Kohan here has been a faithful servant of House Stillwater for many years. He is very experienced."

"But there is something that troubles me... you are of the clergy caste, do you not have a title or something to adress you by?"

Lycar

knewsom
2009-01-15, 03:34 PM
Runa rolled her eyes as she pocketed the coin without a second thought.

"I'm sure if she wanted to be called something else, that's how she'd have introduced herself... If you doubt her credentials, ask her to heal you."

As she said this last line, a baleful glint appeared in here eye, a friendly reminder that a lack of wounds was an easy thing to remedy.

The blonde wizard stood and started towards the door, but stopped and turned back for a moment.

"Where and when exactly are we meeting tomorrow?"

NobleSavage
2009-01-15, 04:07 PM
Reyhan

Dragging an unattended chair into the circle, Reyhan fills the gap next to Dion. Leaning forward a moment as Kohan begins to divvy out the gold, Reyhan seems to reconsider, slouching back into his seat. "Thank you, my Lord," a playful smile creases his lips as his eyebrows jump, "But my equipment is adequate, I will need no advances at present. I trust, though," his smile turning sly "that you will be covering expenses, including security and information gathering, and in that vein a discretionary fund would be appreciated." The Shavaran offers a hand once more, suggesting more than demanding. Catching Kohan's concerned expression as if for the first time, Reyhan pats the air in deference, "Don't worry, don't worry, I will an account of what I spend, to be approved by yourself, of course."

Lycar
2009-01-15, 05:17 PM
Verlyn

Smiling sweetly at Runa, Verlyn retorts with a purring voice "Touchy touchy... don't you think it would behoove me to afford the same priviledge, of being adressed by the proper title, that I claim for me, to any others who have a claim to a title?"

"Oh, silly me... that has always been a bit of a.. sore spot for you, hasn't it?"

Getting earnest again, he goes on, adressing the whole group "Besides, if I doubted any of your references, you wouldn't be here in the first place."

"As for specific expenses," Verlyn adds, looking at Reyhan, "they will need to be approved on a case-by-case basis. We don't actually have that much gold with us."

Leaning back into the shadows again he closes with "Or did you really think we would be lugging around 10.000 gold pieces with us? That is just another reason why your mission is to escort us back here: If you want to be paid, you have to go where the money is."

"About tomorrow: Our ship sails with the morning tide. That would be.. oh, somewhere around the 10th hour or so. So you will meet us in front of the harbourmaster's office. On the 9th hour. I am certain I don't have to remind professionals, such as you are, to be punctual."

Lycar

The Great Skenardo
2009-01-15, 05:36 PM
Jackel Betruger
The Mokai man scratches his chin again.
"Yeah, sure... Guess I can find a clock somewhere in this town."
He stands slowly. He really isn't tall, but still his presence gives him a sense of stature unmeasurable in inches. Or perhaps quite measurable in inches.
Absently, Jackel flicks the heavy pommel of the blade across his back with one finger, eliciting a dull ring.
"Be seeing y'all tomorrow. Stay safe... I ain't getting paid to protect you tonight."
He cackles softly to himself as he heads to the bar to see about some kind of lodging for the night.

knewsom
2009-01-15, 05:49 PM
Runa raised an eyebrow at Verlyn, but didn't show any other sign of emotion.

"How gracious of you. I've just always thought they were silly. ..my lord."

She followed this with a flourish and a deep bow before turning to leave once more, saying her goodbye's loudly without turning her head.

"Goodnight friends, old and new, see you tomorrow."

Toliudar
2009-01-15, 07:45 PM
But there is something that troubles me... you are of the clergy caste, do you not have a title or something to adress you by?

Dion blanches.

I am way beyond all of that caste crap, and I have never clerged in my life, My Lord - as will we all be when the world is remade anew. Meantime, Dion will do just fine.

She regains her composure, and her tone becomes cultured again.

If it please your Lordship.

She executes some variant on what a curtsey would look like in plate armour. And reaches down to finish off the beer. Always finish off the beer.

Tomorrow morning, in front of the harbourmasters, then.

Nodding to the others, and putting a friendly hand on Reyhan's shoulder, she departs.

Ozzy_G
2009-01-15, 09:32 PM
Kohan looks at Reyhan uncomfortably, glances at Verlyn, sighs, and hands him 100 gold as well. See you tomorrow then, he says with a slight tension.

NobleSavage
2009-01-16, 12:27 AM
Reyhan

"Mmm, so I am to return to you before paying out the bribe I've convinced a doorman to take in order to acquire potentially critical information my Lord?" Grinning, he waves his hand, as if to take back his words, "Do not worry, my Lord. That is all hyperbole, I believe I understand your intent well enough. I will not spill out your coffers," though talking to Verlyn, Reyhan's eye's make contact with Kohan's, "on drink and... other vices... for myself. I will use discretion." He shrugs, grins, and takes a large gulp from his mug.

Wincing as Dion slips into her dogmatic jargon, he still offers her a smile as she stands to leave. Forcibly restraining himself from cringing as the woman lays a hand on his shoulder he puts on his best air of calm. Well, she can probably deal with what she sees here. She's proved reasonably trustworthy in the past. Unless this whole thing is a trap... No, no, I'm not worth the expense such actors would require. Not yet anyway.

Leaning back, Reyhan continues to drink as the others filter out. Obviously in little hurry, he shifts his seat so that he can see more of the tavern. Once the rest of his companions have left, or the small talk runs out, the Shavaran returns to his seat at the card table, and continues to lose his money.

Lycar
2009-01-16, 03:45 AM
Verlyn

Verlyn just quirks an eyebrow at Dion's reaction, although that is obscured by the shadows.

After all but Reyhan have left, Verlyn gets up and announces his departure.

"Very well then. See you tomorrow Master Reyhan."

And so he retreats to his quarters, to rest for the night.

Once he is certain to be alone with Kohan, he turns to him and asks "So, how was I?"

Lycar

Ozzy_G
2009-01-16, 08:35 AM
Kohan sits down and the bed and sighs, then replies.
Not terrible, I'll give you that. But did it never occur to you that they might take our money and run off with it?

Lycar
2009-01-16, 03:02 PM
Verlyn

Verlyn frowns.

""Actually, no. I mean, I was kinda expecting you to select people who would stick for the chance to earn the 2000 gold, rather then run off with a paltry 100 gold pieces and risk to get a bad reptuation for it. You know, people who live by their word. Do you fear they will not show up tomorrow?"

Lycar

Ozzy_G
2009-01-17, 12:18 AM
Kohan sighs, holding his head in his hands. You must always prepare for the worst, m'lord. He leans back. But anyway. It's not important now. Do you have any instructions for me, or may I be dismissed, m'lord?

Lycar
2009-01-17, 01:47 AM
Verlyn

"No no, it is quite all right. You may leave. We are going on a long journey tomorrow."

Verlyn smiles at Kohan. Always worried. But then again, that is part why he is such a valued servant of House Stillwater.

He gives Kohan a short nod and retreats towards his own quarters, going to bed soon.

Lycar

Ozzy_G
2009-01-17, 09:36 AM
Night wears on, tired drunks wander home to their angry wives, and the moons float across the sky.
The sun rises, painting the town with yellow light, clearer as it rises above the sea.
The docks are busy with teamsters and sailors, might ships and small fishing sloops.
The harbourmaster's office sits facing the wooden docks and the ships at anchor, a two-storied building painted a now dull blue and streaked white with the excrement of seagulls.

The Great Skenardo
2009-01-17, 09:47 AM
Jackel Betruger
Finishing off a greasy breakfast as he goes, Jackel licks his fingers and watches the dock, critically. It all looked a little too much like real work. He'd come early, because frankly the bed he'd rented was itchy as hell, and Jackel always kept a clear head the night before a job.
"Yes, your Lordship," he mutters to himself, "Right away, your lordship. Shut up and drown, your Lordship." He spits in the street and leans against a post, arms crossed.

Toliudar
2009-01-17, 10:59 AM
Dion

Dion opened an eye and groaned, blinking in the morning sun. She shoved Frankel out of the blanket to wake him.

Get up, get up. It's you kept me up all night, wanting one more time. Now you've got to help me get my armour on. I gotta go.

She stumbled to her feet and dragged a hand through her short hair. The room smelled of sweat, and spilled beer and food that wasn't quite food anymore. A fair bit of the smell was coming from the bodies of the three young people sleeping in an awkward lump on the other side of the room. She hoped that not too much of it was coming from her.

As Frankel rose shakily to his feet, Dion held his head to kiss him again as he lifted the first of the many pieces of her plate armour.

Remember, you're in charge again. Seek out others like us, and be strong in your faith of a better world after the fire. Never trust the Man. Don't settle into any one place, and get the hell out if you're feeling heat on you. Right?

Stroking the boy's long greasy-but-still-somehow-lovely hair, she let him finish the task of armouring her up as she mentally prepared a few additional thoughts for the New Scriptures.

How does this sound? "In the new world, beer will be cheaper if you bring the seller back the empty keg." Okay, lacks grandeur. But it's a good idea, right?

With a final kiss, she is off into the morning light. Abruptly, she grows six inches, her hair lengthens and smooths out, and the armour slims up, taking on the beautiful red and black markings she'd used last night.

Using another of Verlyn's coins to buy a small loaf of bread from a vendor in the plaza, Dion made her way to the docks.

Harbourmaster...harbourmaster...where's the...

Catching sight of Jackel, Dion nods, and approaches, smiling.

Good morning. Be an even better morning if the tide was rolling out at noon.

The Great Skenardo
2009-01-17, 12:36 PM
Jackel Betruger
Jackel sniffs the air, then laughs.
"Someone had fun last night. So, yeah, Guess it's a good morning. Heh."
Abruptly, his mirth seems expended, and the Mokai man brushes his nose again, glowering at the docks.
"Goddamn nobles. You're a priestess, ain't ya? You use magic?"

Lycar
2009-01-17, 02:35 PM
Verlyn

(This got a bit longer then expected, so I#ll spoiler it to save space.)


Verlyn went to bed early and also wakes up just after sunrise. He doesn't get up immediately though, but rather enjoys the sensation of his soft bed just a while longer. Well, not as soft as his bed back in Stillwater manor, but the best the inn had to offer.

'Never settle for second best.' he said when they were looking for a place to stay 'My Lord,' Kohan had replied 'there are some more things to consider then to.. ah.. 'keeping appearances'. We only have so much gold to go around and may need to spend some on unexpected obstacles that may arise. Trust me to find comfortable yet affordable acoomodations.'


Eventually he stretches profousely and climbs out of his bed, heading for the window and opening it. The chill morning air rushes in, bringing in smells of the sea but also of the city. Even though he is bare-chested, Verlyn does not seem to notice the chill.

He stays a minute or so, trying to get a glimpse of the rising sun. But too many buildings are blocking the view and so he turns around and heads for the washing cabinet with a slight frown.

Verlyn pours some water into the bowl and unfolds the cloth that holds the scented soap bar. Taking his time, he splashes himself with some water and uses the soap to wash away the scent of the night. He dries himself, stows away the soap and, after another round of stretching, goes about his morning training routine.

Some simple gymnastics and sit-ups to work the kinks out of his muscles. While he trains, he notices a fly buzzing around in his room. Actually, there are 3 or so, but he sets his sights on this one with a sort of cruel smile.

Verlyn gets up and fetches his weapon belt, donning it. Then he assumes his ready stance, the one he was taught by his intructors at the academy in Ralm.

He does not focus on the fly, instead he reminds himself of the teachings of his instructor and focusses on the right place and time.

The fly buzzes around the room, as flies are wont to do.

Verlyn remains motionless, hands lightly on the handles of his twin kukris.

Then the fly enters a specific area of airspace and Verly jumps into action. With one fluid move he draws his twin blades and cuts the air in front of him into ribbons.

The fly buzzes on undisturbed.

With a small sigh, Verlyn sheathes his weapons again and resumes his focus.

Another fly comes close, but he ignores it.

Eventually, his chosen prey approaches again. Closer... cloooooseeeeer...

The fly re-enters the no-fly zone and again the kukris slash the air in the blink of an eye, but this time it is her undoing as the stricken fly spirals down to the ground, a wing cut off.

Verlyn crouches to examine his handiwork. To his dismay, he finds the fly still alive, if crippled. Slightly dissatisfied with his performance, he straightens himself up again and dispatches the moribund insect with a swift stomp.

"Seems like I'm getting out of training. It's about time I get to do something again..." he mumbles to himself as he goes on to dress himself.

Finally, Verlyn pulls out the magic hand mirror, the one his sister gave him as a gift. Looking over his messed up hair critically, he intones the magic command phrase and the magic of the mirror does its work of smoothing down unruly locks of hair, removing grease and even ironing out wrinkles in his clothes.

Thus satisfied, Verlyn packs up his things and leaves his room to fetch Kohan.

He approaches the door to Kohan's room, facing a small conundrum. It really ought to be the servant coming to fetch his master, but Kohan is probaly up and ready already, just buisy doing ... whatever it is he's doing.

Quickly looking around to make sure he is unobserved (and feeling slightly silly), he knocks on the door. "Kohan? Come on, I'm ready to move out."

The door is opened and a slightly surprised Kohan peers out.
"You are up already?"

"Yes. I may like to sleep in as much as the next noble but we are going on a journey. I don't want to miss it. Come on, let's have breakfast and do go pay the innkeeper. We still need to have our horses brought aboard the ship. Uh.. which ship was it again...?"

"That would be the Blue Gull, captain Rek og Mar, a Mokai."


####

And so Verlyn and Kohan have breakfast and then go for the harbour to meet up with the rest of the party and board their ship.

Lycar

Toliudar
2009-01-17, 03:03 PM
"Goddamn nobles. You're a priestess, ain't ya? You use magic?"

Dion pauses before responding.

Sometimes, Calamesh speaks through me. Sometimes, his voice is pretty loud. Calamesh is pretty good at taking things apart, and putting things back together. Make sense?

How about you, Jackel? You said that you're a warrior, but...any hidden talents I should know about?

She glances up the street, noting the approach of Verlyn and Kohan.

knewsom
2009-01-17, 03:16 PM
Ozzy:
Runa had drunk plenty of water the previous night to ensure an early wake-up, and after a simple breakfast of bread and cheese in the quiet little inn, she politely paid her bill and left.

En route to the harbormaster's, she took the opportunity to disguise herself as an old woman beggar, toothless and mute. She settled in not far from the meet, and and remained there, grinning and nodding her thanks at anyone who threw her a copper.

Meanwhile, she waited for the others to arrive, and once they did, she listened intently to what they had to say, never breaking her cover for a moment, and not really looking their way.

NobleSavage
2009-01-17, 04:03 PM
Reyhan

Rolling out of bed, Reyhan stumbles over to the window in his modest room. Throwing the shutters wide the man yawns and stretches, tendons popping as arms reach impossibly wide as his jaw drops, tongue lolling out like a predatory cat. Smacking his lips, the half-Shavaran plants his hands on his hips as he looks over the city waking up to a bustle. Alright he crooks an eyebrow, Time to go to work.

Turning his back on the open window Reyhan, clad only in a breechcloth, picks through his scattered clothes. Lets keep it simple, today. Picking up a reasonably clean undershirt he throws it on, following it with a light chainshirt. Pulling a corner of a tunic, he flaps a few waves through it before ducking into it. Stepping before the simple chest of drawers he looks at his reflection in the small mirror he had propped atop it. Crinkling his eyebrows at his clothes he tugs on the collar a few times, sending ripples through the materiel, causing the cut and color to change until he is standing in a more utilitarian garb a light tan shade. Reaching over to pick up his turban from next to the mirror he steps back once more, trying the slightly shifting material in a variety of wraps before undoing it altogether and slinging it across his shoulders.

Looking around, Reyhan quickly collects his items, pocketing each item in one of the many pockets his new new tunic affords. With a quick last glance around he shuffles down the stairs, slapping a pair of silver on the counter and dipping his head to the innkeeper.

Twisting his way through the streets, the Shavaran is able to take a reasonably direct course, despite the crooking streets, thanks to the time he'd invested in understanding the city's layout.

Snatching a pair of small oranges and a dry biscuit on his way, he arrives munching on the last of the bread and licking the sticky sweetness from his fingers. Smiling, he approaches his new companions, though does not immediately join the conversation, instead turning wide, slow circles to take in his surroundings.

Ozzy_G
2009-01-17, 05:18 PM
The docks smell of the sea, with a whiff of excrement. The unwashed sailors who wonder past, and the labourers carrying boxes, smell of stale sweat.
A couple of women stand at the front of an alley in low-cut dresses. Evidently whores are open twenty-four hours a day.
An old woman sits against the wall, holding out her begging bowl and grinning like a loon, evidently senile.
A group of kids run along the street, laughing and wooping.
Several Davethran guards lean against a wall, watching the docks, and chatting.

The Great Skenardo
2009-01-17, 05:41 PM
Jackel Betruger
While the conversation is still private, Jackel laughs.
"Oh yeah, sure. I got talents. I can kill a man just by looking at him, like an Aelf. I can also turn vinegar to wine, and fart lightning."
He spreads his hands and smirks.
"Sometimes what you see is what you get, and if what you see ain't enough for you, then you're the most particular woman in the world.."

Lycar
2009-01-17, 07:50 PM
Verlyn

Verlyn approaches the harbour a bit early, leading his horse by the reigns. While he does take in his surroundings (more on a subconscious level then by making an effort), he tries to ignore the more unpleasant facets.

He is about to walk past the old beggar woman with but a glance, when he remembers his father's words.

"Remember, you are a noble. That is both privilege and obligation. Remember to be kind and just to those depending on you. And do not forget to have mercy on those less fortunate then you."

Feeling an ever so slight pang of guilt, Verlyn reaches into his coin purse and produces a silver coin, which he drops into the woman's bowl with a smile.

"Of course it had to be silver, copper just isn't good enough, is it." Kohan remarks with a frown.

"Oh be quiet, that is my own money I am giving away. And why should I not," Verlyn goes on as he continues his way towards the harbourmaster's office, "a silver piece is but a pittance for me, for that poor woman it may as well be as much as she might ever make on a day."

"*sigh* Yes you are rich. But you don't have to rub it in. People resent that. Especially the poor."

Verlyn frowns at that. That doesn't make sense. They should be glad that he shows them pity and shares some of his wealth with them. They should be grateful.

Shaking the hought from his mind, Verlyn looks around, consciously this time, to see if he can spot anything interesting to distract him.

Maybe he can spot some of the others lurking around? Except Runa of course. :smallwink:

Spot: [roll0]

Lycar

Toliudar
2009-01-17, 09:55 PM
Dion


"Sometimes what you see is what you get, and if what you see ain't enough for you, then you're the most particular woman in the world.."

Dion smiles and takes a step closer to Jackel.

Who says it isn't enough? Although you've really got to watch it. Raising my expectations so high. You sure you can deliver?

The Great Skenardo
2009-01-17, 10:12 PM
Jackel Betruger
Jackel smiles at Dion, his teeth a pearly off-white gleam against his dark skin.
"Well, now. It's just like I told his Pain-in-the-Highness... No one's ever called me inadequate."
He glances for a moment past Dion's shoulder and grimaces.
"Damn, he's here already."

Ozzy_G
2009-01-17, 10:39 PM
Looking around, Verlyn sees Reyhan fairly near Dion and Jackel, though he is looking about himself rather than talking to them. Verlyn sees the sailors and labourers go about their business, but there is nothing above the ordinary.
He cannot see any sign of Runa.

Toliudar
2009-01-17, 11:39 PM
Dion

Tapping Jackel's chest once, Dion shrugs.

Well. It's a long voyage. We've got to find some way to pass the time.

She follows Jackel's glance back to Reyhan and Verlyn. With a sprightlier motion than she really feels, Dion heads over to them.

Morning, Reyhan. My Lord. So, which tub is ours, boss? I'd like to stow this away, maybe get out of my armour for the trip...

The Great Skenardo
2009-01-18, 12:56 AM
Jackel Betruger
Jackel scratches his curly black beard again and watches Dion as she walks towards the others.
Somethin's wrong here. I can smell the funk on her, but she's still clawing at my loins? I'm good, but am I THAT good?
He snorts and laughs to himself.
Yeah, probably.
He follows behind after a bit, projecting self-confidence like royal robes.
" Mornin' Lordship. You ready to go?" He spits off to one side, and then smiles a wide, pumpkin grin.

Lycar
2009-01-18, 03:21 PM
Verlyn

Verlyn nods at Dion and Jackel as they approach.

"Good morning. I hope you rested well. Unfortunately, we are still short two members of our little party. So no, we are not quite ready to go just yet."

Verlyn seems to be peering at something past the two for a moment.
Now that one can see him in full daylight, the early impressions are confimed. He is indeed a tall man, almost 6 1/2 feet, with a broad chest. Now you can also see that he is in fact wearing two short blades at either side of his hips.

Also, his clothes really do look quite expensive.

His horse is pretty unremarkable though, carrying a riding sattle and saddlebags. An unstrung composite longbow is attached to the saddlebags, the kind a davethran Oathsworn would use and of high quality. There is also a quiver full of arrows.

"Dion, do you have any idea why your companion would keep lurking around back there instead of just joining us?"

Lycar

Toliudar
2009-01-18, 03:56 PM
Dion

Dion shrugs with a clank.

He's a voyeur? He's not a morning person? I get the impression that Reyhan's got enough weirdness going in his life to fill a couple of night's stories, and he kind of cultivates an air that suggests even more.

She pauses, as a memory plays out in her mind. It doesn't seem to be a happy one.

But, My Lord, if you like you could probably send ol' Kohan over there to ask him yourself. Meantime, what ship? Carrying around everything I own is only fun when it's a choice.

She points to her backpack which, despite her protestations, doesn't look any more full than it did last night.

Lycar
2009-01-18, 05:24 PM
Verlyn

"I don't like. And whatever his reasons, he better hurries not to be the last one to show up." Verlyn answers, scowling.

"That way, he is not making friends. But either way, we are still waiting for Miss Redgrave. Oh and don't be too surprised if she seems to appear out of thin air. Or, on second thought, do. She likes that."

He crosses his arms in front of his chest and starts pacing around, keeping an eye out for Runa.

"Oh that reminds me, as you can see, I have a horse. Are any of you going to get one for yourself?"

Lycar

Toliudar
2009-01-18, 05:44 PM
Dion

Dion sighs and rubs her forehead.

Yes. Nothing I like better than riding my horsey around the deck of a ship at sail. And you can like or not like Reyhan, for all I care, My Lord. I'm not his mother.

For the love of coffee! Do you really not even know the name of the ship you've hired? Are you reliant on Kohan for everything, My Lord?

NobleSavage
2009-01-18, 06:15 PM
Reyhan

Taking in the scene, Reyhan looks off to sea, inhaling the salty air in impossibly deep breaths. Exhaling slowly, the man follows the air as it leaves his body, attuning himself to the percussive beat of his chest and the flow of his lungs. A few more meditative moments and he turns to join the others.

Sloppy grin painted across his features, the man looks relaxed, happy even. He also appears strikingly unprepared, though the hilt of a large, curving sword reaches out from its place strapped to his back. On the pommel a bright stone is set, similar in shade to Verlyn's, though clearly of a different make. In the bright morning light, one can make out his eyes are a bit more cat-shaped than they appeared last night, though the deep purple hue remains. Hair unbound today, flaps and waves with the incoming sea breeze. Or does it? Upon close inspection, the coal black mane seems to whip against the incoming wind, standing its full four inches on end at times for no apparent reason.

Sidling up, the man smiles even more fully. "Ready to go?"

The Great Skenardo
2009-01-18, 06:57 PM
Jackel Betruger
Jackel makes a face.
"Sorry, yer honor. I'm a simple swordsman; I ain't got no horse. I c'n get one with that advance you gave me, but that's... gonna take time." He observes the approaching Reyhan, and his eyes narrow as he looks the half-Shavaran up and down.
"You use magic too, don't you? Everyone else on this trip a magician? Is that how it is?"

Ozzy_G
2009-01-18, 08:27 PM
Kohan coughs awkwardly. Uh, anyway. The ship we are going to take is called the Blue Gull. We'll find it once Mrs Redgrave arrives, which should hopefully be soon. And I, he says firmly, do not use magic. It is not my place to do so.

The Great Skenardo
2009-01-18, 08:45 PM
Jackel Betruger
Jackel strokes his chin, gazing hard at Kohan.
"Yeah? Well okay, then."
He sniffs.
"Redgrave? That Kumari? Huh. Guess we can't leave with 'is lady, huh?"

knewsom
2009-01-18, 09:01 PM
The old beggar woman nodded and smiled her mute toothless grin as Verlyn deposited a silver piece in her bowl and continued to sit quietly while the others met, though you could swear she glared directly at the tall catlike lord immediately following an offhanded remark about Runa appearing out of nowhere.

As Kohan spoke, the old woman's face twisted in anger and she rose and walked directly over towards him, poking him in the chest with a grubby index finger. Oddly, Runa's sultry voice emanated from the toothless mouth.

"It's not your place to offer your opinions unbidden either, is it Kohan? Or do you have anything else to say about whose place it is and isn't to do magick?"

She turned towards Verlyn and flipped him back his silver piece, her stern tone continued as she spoke.

"I see discipline has been a bit lax in the Stillwater estate, lord... I would approve, but for this one's tongue. And, while I'm ranting, thanks for ruining my entrance. I was going to impress you all by appearing in cloud of smoke or something, now I have to settle for the too tired 'old beggar woman' routine."

The old woman pouted for a moment then flicked her hand with a mutter, sending a poof of smoke about her with a "poof" sound. When it cleared, Runa was once more in her regular form, though her clothes today were more form-fitting and practical for a warm day and traveling. She had on black pants, burgundy knee-high lace-up boots with a slight heel, her sword-belt and rapier, and a red velvet corset over a flowing white linen shirt. Around her neck was a lovely black choker with a series of red pearls hanging from it, and her shirt was open down to the corset, revealing her full and shapely bosom. Her pale skin and blonde hair shone in the sunlight.

"Well well, enough foreplay, let's find that ship."

She turned and gave Jackal a stern look.

"And I am NOBODY's 'lady'."

casting prestidigitation for the smoke and "poof", and "disguise self" to hide the wand up her sleeve and mithral chain shirt under the linen.

The Great Skenardo
2009-01-18, 09:21 PM
Jackel Betruger
Jackel wrinkles his nose, as if smelling something foul, and for just a moment his face is twisted into a dark, savage expression. Just as quickly, it retreats behind an easy smile.
"Wooo...Good disguise there. Didn't recognize you. Guess everyone's got neat tricks up their sleeves. Mmhm."

Ozzy_G
2009-01-18, 09:29 PM
Kohan looks very awkward, coughing to hide his embaressment. Uh, yes, we should be getting on to the ship, m'lord Verlyn.

Toliudar
2009-01-18, 09:51 PM
Dion

Dion is clearly startled by the old woman's transformation, and almost instinctively raises a hand to point at her. But nothing more happens. She relaxes as the others speak.

Right, the Blue Gull. I think I saw that name over here.

She heads off towards one of the piers.

NobleSavage
2009-01-18, 11:17 PM
Reyhan

Reyhan's face contorts into a frown of naive confusion at the Mokai's question. "Yeah, I use magic, but, I mean, I'm sure you do, as well... I don't make magic, though, if thats what you mean." He shrugs simply.

"Cute," he intones as Runa completes her transformation. But I bet it was only an apparition. Wonder how an old, used, form feels....

Paying no heed to the Kumari woman's tirade, Reyhan follows Dion down the warf.

The Great Skenardo
2009-01-18, 11:24 PM
Jackel Betruger
Jackel sneers.
"Yeah? I'm sure your hair does that all by itself, then huh?"

Toliudar
2009-01-18, 11:56 PM
Dion

Glancing back, Dion winks.

Only his hairdresser knows for sure.

NobleSavage
2009-01-19, 12:44 AM
Reyhan

For a minute the man's eyes narrow, taking in the sneering man, but flick over to Dion. "Yeah..." he drawls, looking Jackel in the eye, "tried everything, even the greaseball look" he jerks is chin toward the dark haired man, "Nothin' doin'. Old man's hair don't like to be tamed, turns out." He smiles slightly, eyes dancing playfully, "So its either this-" he flicks a particularly unruly patch, "or this," he tugs on both ends of the scarf lying across his shoulders. Turning his back on the man, Reyhan walks off toward the boat, tossing his head to send his mane swirling in earnest once more.

The Great Skenardo
2009-01-19, 12:54 AM
Jackel Betruger
Jackel watches after for a minute. Then, expression strangely blank, turns to watch his new employer and smiles wide.
"Gonna be a fun trip, Lordshi' " he remarks.

Lycar
2009-01-19, 01:08 PM
Verlyn


Do you really not even know the name of the ship you've hired? Are you reliant on Kohan for everything, My Lord?

Yerlyn smiles sweetly at Dion.
(Ha! You won't be going anywhere untill *I* tell you where. )

He is just about to answer Dion when Kohan interrupts.


Kohan coughs awkwardly. Uh, anyway. The ship we are going to take is called the Blue Gull. We'll find it once Mrs Redgrave arrives, which should hopefully be soon. And I, he says firmly, do not use magic. It is not my place to do so.

"...!"

Verlyn shoots Kohan an angry glare. But before he can make up his mind to either yell at him or let his remark slide this time, Runa shows up.



As Kohan spoke, the old woman's face twisted in anger and she rose and walked directly over towards him, poking him in the chest with a grubby index finger. Oddly, Runa's sultry voice emanated from the toothless mouth.

"It's not your place to offer your opinions unbidden either, is it Kohan? Or do you have anything else to say about whose place it is and isn't to do magick?"

She turned towards Verlyn and flipped him back his silver piece, her stern tone continued as she spoke.

Verlyn is taken by surprise. All he can do is catch the coin reflexivly. It is one thing to know that Runa loves a dramatic entrance. It is quite another to get caught flat-footed by it.



"I see discipline has been a bit lax in the Stillwater estate, lord... I would approve, but for this one's tongue. And, while I'm ranting, thanks for ruining my entrance. I was going to impress you all by appearing in cloud of smoke or something, now I have to settle for the too tired 'old beggar woman' routine."

"Uh... sorry..." Verlyn mutters, visibly flustered and looking a tad sheepish.


"Well well, enough foreplay, let's find that ship."


Kohan looks very awkward, coughing to hide his embaressment. Uh, yes, we should be getting on to the ship, m'lord Verlyn.

Verlyn shoots Kohan another well-thanks-a-lot-moron look and tell him "Oh you think? Why don't you go ahead and show us the way then? After all, nobody else but you knows where it is."


Right, the Blue Gull. I think I saw that name over here.

She heads off towards one of the piers.

"... it's the 4th ship down the pier."

Still scowling, Verlyn begins to lead his horse down the pier.


Jackel Betruger
Jackel watches after for a minute. Then, expression strangely blank, turns to watch his new employer and smiles wide.
"Gonna be a fun trip, Lordshi' " he remarks.

Verlyn looks at the Mokai, just reminding himself of what his father told him.

"And Verlyn, for the sake of all of us: Stop challenging people to duels every 5 minutes!" "

Still, he can't quite stop himself from seizing Jackel up with a stare and ask
"Care to finish that sentence? ... didn't think so."

Lycar

Ozzy_G
2009-01-19, 02:04 PM
Kohan shifts on his small horse uncomfortably, and trots after Dion down towards the 4th pier.
The Blue Gull is a middling-size ship. At the front are painted small pictures of Cilnara, the Mokai goddess associated with the element of water. It's currently being loaded up with crates by barechested Mokai sailors.

Ozzy_G
2009-01-19, 02:11 PM
Seeing you, a balding middle-aged Mokai in a scruffy red waistcoat stops shouting at his crewmates and limps over towards you. Ah, Lord Stillwater! he says grinning. Several of his teeth are missing, and his puffy nose has obviously been broken at some point in the past. The only smart thing about him are his boots, black and so shiny you can see him reflected on the tops of them. You notice that he says "Lord Stillwater" from a distance enough so that you can't actually tell who he's directing it at. He walks up in front of you all, bowing. M'name is Reok og Mar, captain of the Blue Gull. He straightens up, and surveys you all with his beady yellow eyes. He nods at Jackel. Blessing of the Kael Vorn on you, he says perfunctorally to Jackel. He grins at Kohan. Good to see ya again then! Are you all ready to get on board? I want to sail by the noon tide.

Toliudar
2009-01-19, 02:51 PM
Dion

Pausing at the plank, Dion hooks a thumb back at Verlyn.

Right, captain. I'm, Dion, with Lord Stillwater. Staterooms below?

Lycar
2009-01-19, 03:16 PM
Verlyn

Verlyn is still a bit grumpy, but he puts that behind him as he greets the captain, giving him a short put polite bow.

"Well met Captain Reok og Mar. I am Lord Verlyn Felyx Stillwater, of House Stillwater. My personal aide has secured passage with your ship for six people and their mounts. Of which there are only two as it turns out. Permission to come aboard, Captain?"

Lycar

knewsom
2009-01-19, 03:29 PM
If Runa was still grumpy at all, it vanished immediately. She smiled prettily at the Captain and bowed deeply and politely, showing even more of her perfect cleavage, as she introduced herself with her sultry voice.

"Captain og Mar, it is such a pleasure to meet you... Lord Stillwater has spoken highly of your fine crew's skill, as well as your splendid ship's capabilities. My name is Runa Redgrave, and it is quite a pleasure to meet you."

She rose and gestured to the others.

"We're all excited to be underway, and to see our accomodations, which I've been assured are MORE than adequate..."

She extended her hand in a ladylike fashion, looking at the Captain expectantly to kiss it.

Ok I might have laid it on a bit thick, but here's a Diplomacy check, it never hurts to improve the disposition of the captain of the ship. [roll0]

The Great Skenardo
2009-01-19, 03:30 PM
Jackel Betruger

Verlyn
Verlyn looks at the Mokai, just reminding himself of what his father told him.

"And Verlyn, for the sake of all of us: Stop challenging people to duels every 5 minutes!" "

Still, he can't quite stop himself from seizing Jackel up with a stare and ask
"Care to finish that sentence? ... didn't think so."
Lycar

Jackel looks puzzled. "Huh?"
But as the group moves on, he shrugs and follows a short way behind Verlyn, humming to himself.

"...golem went to Zardis,
dum de dum de dum
'fightin' with the purpose
dum dum de dum de dum..."


As the captain greets him, Jackel replies absently,
"Isana spice your rum."
He doesn't manage to avoid watching Runa's bow, though, and the subsequent flash of cleavage. The Mokai chuckles softly.

Ozzy_G
2009-01-19, 07:46 PM
The captain grins even wider as Runa curtsies. He bows ostentatiously to her, and kisses her hand. It is a pleasure to have you on board, m'lady! He waves to the ship. Please, follow me, and I'll show you to your quarters.

The Great Skenardo
2009-01-19, 08:04 PM
Jackel Betruger
Bowing obsequiously himself, Jackel smiles charmingly.
"Ladies an' nobles first."
Jackel will hang back and watch the others board, some more closely than others.

Toliudar
2009-01-19, 09:13 PM
Dion

"You heard the man."

Clearly considering herself neither of the categories listed, Dion hangs back to let the others go on. She sidles up to Reyhan with a grin.

"I can't wait to get back on the sea. Do you enjoy sailing, Reyhan?"

Lycar
2009-01-20, 01:42 AM
Verlyn

Verlyn courtesies at Runa with a smile, seemingly having regained his good mood.

"Ladies first of course."

When Runa goes ahead, he'll follow behind her.

"Kohan, you take care of the horses." he adds as he walks up the gangway.

That would ususally the responsibility of the crew, but since Kohan embarrassed him in front of the hired help...

Lycar

knewsom
2009-01-20, 01:48 PM
The corners of Runa's lips turned upward in a subtle smile, and her gaze lingered a moment on Verlyn, her eyes sparkling to contain the thrill of a small victory before following the Captain to their quarters.

"Why thank you, Captain, my lord."

Toliudar
2009-01-20, 02:54 PM
Dion

Pleased to finally have a chance to get settled in, Dion finds her room, quickly packs away her armour and shield, and braces her spear so that it doesn't roll around, and seeks out any kind of wash facilities available.

Feeling a bit lighter and more refreshed in just her cotton shirt and trousers, she heads up on deck to enjoy the view sailing out of the harbour. Starting to relax, she seeks out a senior-looking member of the crew (Captain og Mar, if he doesn't look too busy) and asks.

So...how long you figure this trip's going to take?

Ozzy_G
2009-01-20, 10:47 PM
The captain shows the group to their rooms. Dion and Runa are sharing one room, Reyhan and Jackel another, and Verlyn gets the biggest, with a hammock put in one corner for Kohan. Of course, this is a ship, so "biggest" is purely relative.
There are a few other passengers, says the captain, already aboard. Perhaps you'd join me, and them, in my room for dinner this evening? I'll see you later.
Outside, you can hear horses neighing outside as Kohan struggles to get them on board the ship.
You get settled in with your rooms. Dion heads out and onto deck, where she finds the captain supervising some last loading. It looks like they're nearly ready to leave. Oh, not too long, says the captain in response to her question. He seems a bit more distracted than before, probably because he's watching his crew. Depends on the weather of course, but it normally only takes two to three days.

The Great Skenardo
2009-01-20, 11:18 PM
Jackel Betruger
Jackel also makes an appearance on deck, his mail and shirt abandoned below but the worn steel falchion still strapped to his back.
In the morning sunlight, Jackel's coffee-black skin almost smolders with health. But with the light, it's now plain to see the evidence of his trade. Scars adorn Jackel's shoulders, chest and back. Some of them are cosmetic; here three jagged lines crawling up his left arm, there a cicatrix cross set just above and to the left of his heart.
But some of them are not cosmetic: A pock behind his left shoulder, probably from a dagger or an arrow, A blotch of discoloured skin just below his throat, and dozens of small scars circling his torso and criss-crossing on his stomach. Oddly, he doesn't seem to have any hair on his chest at all.

Walking the deck, Jackel smiles to himself, looking for all the world like a fox in the henhouse.

Toliudar
2009-01-21, 12:52 AM
Dion

Dion exults in the wind as she grips the rail. Her smile widens as she listens to the captain. Sharing with this Runa woman...well, it would be good to get to know her better.

Ah, terrific! A few days at sea is just what I needed. And yes, of course. So much depends on the weather.

She turns to watch Jackel prowl the deck. A funny man. A complicated man. Like a gift she was putting off unwrapping. Dion turned back to the dock, and licked her lips.

Lycar
2009-01-21, 02:45 AM
There are a few other passengers, says the captain, already aboard. Perhaps you'd join me, and them, in my room for dinner this evening? I'll see you later.

Verlyn bows at the captain slightly.
"With pleasure, captain."

Looking around, Verlyn checks out the room. Not exactly luxurious, but it will do nicely. Besides, this is a quest, not a pleasure cruise.


Outside, you can hear horses neighing outside as Kohan struggles to get them on board the ship.

With a slight smirk, Verlyn goes outside and watches Kohan struggle with the horses a bit before he chuckles and heads over to him.

"Having a bit of trouble with the horses?"

But he does go ahead and takes the reigns of his own horse and leads it up to the deck himself.

Lycar

Ozzy_G
2009-01-21, 10:48 AM
Kohan nods awkwardly, and they get the horses onto the ship and into the hold, where another horse stands nervously. They tie up the horses, and climb back up onto the deck. Kohan takes the baggage to his and Verlyn's room.
The ship is obviously nearly ready to go, the sailors are just making last-minute adjustments.

Lycar
2009-01-21, 01:04 PM
Kohan nods awkwardly, and they get the horses onto the ship and into the hold, where another horse stands nervously.

Verlyn gives the other horse a curious glance, as if to judge it's abilities.

But more important, now that he has a moment of privacy with Kohan, he is going to tell him off.

"Now what in Goramesh were you thinking up there? You made me look like a fool in front of the hired help! Don't do that again, ever! You are supposed to help me, dammit!"

"*sigh* Look, I may be... inexperienced. But I'm not dumb. I do not forget the names of ships and captains, especially not after asking you about it specifically. So give me some credit there."

"Oh and if Runa gives you a hard time, you come to me and tell me about it. I'll set her straight. Now let's get out of here before we start smelling like horse ourselves."

And so Verlyn and Kohan get back up on deck. Verlyn looks for some place where he's not in the way to watch the proceedings on board the ship.

Work is fascinating.

He could watch for hours.

Lycar

knewsom
2009-01-21, 03:45 PM
Back in their room, Runa subtly claimed the top bunk by hanging her rapier by one of the upper supports, and stowing her handy haversack at the foot of the bed.

If we're going to be in this tiny room for three days, I'll have to find a way to convince her to bathe.

She ambled on deck nimbly as the ship was just about to leave the dock - she'd never been to sea, and relished the myriad of new sights and sounds she was sure to experience, but did her best to keep out of the sailors' way.

NobleSavage
2009-01-21, 04:32 PM
Dion hangs back to let the others go on. She sidles up to Reyhan with a grin.

"I can't wait to get back on the sea. Do you enjoy sailing, Reyhan?"

The man shrugs noncommittally, "Guess we'll see. Never had much opportunity before..." his purple eyes look out greedily across the surf. "Always wanted to, though. Something incredibly beautiful in its perpetual flux... as if the sea could be anything it wants, but cannot make up its mind." He smiles, grin large and drell-eating. "Should be a fun trip. I'm curious to see how our dear Lordship's stomach'll take to the turbulence. Funny one, that. I do hope it was Kohan that drew you to this mission, as I'm not sure what I'd think of you if his highness convinced you to do anything for him." Piquing his eyebrows, Reyhan crosses the gangplank.

Hands jammed in his pockets, he doesn't bother to go below deck to claim his room or deposit his belongings. Finding a mast or spar to lean against, Reyhan eagerly watches the men at work, anxious to be off, surging across the sea.

Toliudar
2009-01-21, 05:14 PM
Dion

Dion throws her head back and laughs at Reyhan's comment.

"Hey, maybe once His Lordship takes off the stuffed shirt, there's a heart underneath. But I'm not holding my breath. Yeah, it was Kohan that recruited me. Us. And I guess it's fair to say that it was the chance to travel some more, on somebody else's dime, that really drew me.

"How about you? I'm betting this isn't just about the money. Talented man like yourself can find work most anywhere."

Ozzy_G
2009-01-21, 08:10 PM
Under the shouts in his own tongue of the captain, the sweating Mokai soldiers raise the anchor and push off from the deck. The ship sails out and into the bright sea, sun high in the sky, fluffy white clouds floating high above you, the light wind in your hair.

The Great Skenardo
2009-01-21, 08:25 PM
Jackel Betruger
Jackel takes a seat at the prow of the ship, soaking up the sunlight. Sometimes it was nice just to be outside and having other people do all the work. This must be what nobles had it like all day every day.
That an' all the authority you can abuse. That'd be an okay life.
relaxing a little, he stretches out and taps his bare feet on the wooden deck, already warm with the sun.
Yeah.

Toliudar
2009-01-21, 08:31 PM
Dion

Once out into the open sea, Dion shrugs to the others and goes below.

There, she seeks out the galley, and most specifically the head cook. Assuming that we're still some time away from a meal, she'll ask for a few minutes of his time.

"Look, bud. I've lived on and worked the docks a while now. I know how hard this life is. And I know that, in ports, sailors can pick up...all sorts of things. Things that are hard to get rid of, if you know what I mean.

"You see all the guys, and you hear their bitching and moaning. So I figured I'd let you know. I got gifts, right? Ways to heal things. Make rashes stop being rashes. Sometimes, I do it for money, sometimes so's a guy'll owe me a favour. I figure, I got a few days on board. Might as well do something more useful than fix my hair, right?

"So, you know of any guys might need looking after that way, you send em to me, right?"

Ozzy_G
2009-01-21, 09:00 PM
(For Dion)
The cook is a plump Mokai with pockmarks on his cheek. He's assisted by a surly pair of mokai teenagers, a boy and a girl. He seems a bit confused by Dion's words at first, but then nods in comprehension. Yeah, woman, he says in a strong accent. I know. You mean what Malsharak punishes men sometimes with for being with Davethran women? Rashes and poxes. I know. I tell men to come see you, you make it better, maybe? He grins. Is good. Very good. I thank you, you have much business I think.

knewsom
2009-01-21, 09:29 PM
As they crossed into the open ocean, Runa delicately (because of the motion) made her way forward and joined Jackel in the prow. She regarded him long and hard, her cold blue eyes fixed upon his black irises for what seemed like an eternity before she spoke, deadly serious, but soft to avoid others hearing.

"That face you made before, when I said I was a Wizard. You didn't like that. It seems you don't like magick. Frankly, I don't give a damn what you like or don't like, or why... But I do need to know one thing, Jackel Betruger. ...are we going to have a problem?"

Toliudar
2009-01-21, 09:45 PM
(For Dion)
The cook is a plump Mokai with pockmarks on his cheek. He's assisted by a surly pair of mokai teenagers, a boy and a girl. He seems a bit confused by Dion's words at first, but then nods in comprehension. Yeah, woman, he says in a strong accent. I know. You mean what Malsharak punishes men sometimes with for being with Davethran women? Rashes and poxes. I know. I tell men to come see you, you make it better, maybe? He grins. Is good. Very good. I thank you, you have much business I think.

Dion smiles.

"It's funny. In Davethra, they blame the Shavaran women. In Shavar, the Shi Lun. All I know is that, Malsharak may send this punishment, but it'll be Calamesh taking it away."

She pauses, maintaining eye contact with the cook. If there was going to be a problem with bringing a storm-priestess onto a ship, might as well get it over with while there was still some chance of her swimming to shore.

The Great Skenardo
2009-01-21, 10:25 PM
Jackel Betruger

As they crossed into the open ocean, Runa delicately (because of the motion) made her way forward and joined Jackel in the prow. She regarded him long and hard, her cold blue eyes fixed upon his black irises for what seemed like an eternity before she spoke, deadly serious, but soft to avoid others hearing.

"That face you made before, when I said I was a Wizard. You didn't like that. It seems you don't like magick. Frankly, I don't give a damn what you like or don't like, or why... But I do need to know one thing, Jackel Betruger. ...are we going to have a problem?"

Jackel squints at Runa for a long moment, Then he closes his eyes and chuckles.
"You're cute when you're trying to be scary."
For a moment, it seems like that might be it, but then he continues, his voice a little quieter.
"There's lots of people whose goddamn throat I'd like to tear out with my teeth. I've killed men an' women alike, laughing the whole time. When we got a problem, you'll know we got a problem. 'An that's a promise."
Abruptly, a smile reappears on his dark face.
"But you? Hell, I like you already. We're gonna be great friends, right? 'Course we are. By the way, how the hell can you be outside and be pale like that? Sun should be crisping you like fried potato every time you step outside the goddamn library, right?""

knewsom
2009-01-22, 06:21 AM
For a moment, it seemed Runa's solid gaze wouldn't break, but then, every so slightly, the left side of her lips curled, and her right eyebrow raised.

"Oh Jackel, we've only just met, so I shouldn't expect you to know when I'm trying to be 'scary'. I'm sure you'll find out eventually, but most of the time, I've found that 'cute' will get you further in life, as disgusting as that is."

She winked and then looked out to the horizon, smiling in the breeze.

"As for my skin... I'm a Kumari. We're all like this. And yes, if I spend too much time in the sun, I get burned, but it takes awhile. Atara nut oil helps. What's with your scars? Some tribal ritual or something?"

The Great Skenardo
2009-01-22, 06:45 AM
Jackel

For a moment, it seemed Runa's solid gaze wouldn't break, but then, every so slightly, the left side of her lips curled, and her right eyebrow raised.

"Oh Jackel, we've only just met, so I shouldn't expect you to know when I'm trying to be 'scary'. I'm sure you'll find out eventually, but most of the time, I've found that 'cute' will get you further in life, as disgusting as that is."


Jackel drums his feet idly.
"You mean to tell me you didn't like bein' in the middle of every man's eye just then with all your bowing an' jiggling? Ha!"
He traces a dark finger across the scars running down his chest, slowly.
"Most o' these, well... I think the word's 'mementos.' I fight an' kill for a living, and not everyone goes down quietlike. Rest I done myself. Meaning?" The Mokai man drums his palms on his muscled chest softly and grins.
"Means I'm a mean bastard that ain't afraid of pain. What's it mean to you?"

Ozzy_G
2009-01-22, 07:50 AM
(For Dion)
The cook looks a bit uneasy, but just nods.

Lycar
2009-01-22, 08:18 AM
Verlyn

Verlyn watches the sailors for a bitm then seems to get bored and leans over the railing to watch the town disappear behind the ship for a bit.

When the ship makes a slight turn to better catch the wind, he is forced to switch sides if he want to keep watching the coast.

Someone observing him might note that he does not seem to have any trouble navigating the ship's deck.

He notices Runa and Jackel talking at the front of the ship but pays them no heed.

After a while, he decides to go to his cabin and take a nap.

Just waiting for the evening and the captain's dinner probably.

Lycar

Toliudar
2009-01-22, 10:13 AM
Dion nods back, and glances around. The moment passes. A very different smile crosses her eye, and she fumbles in her belt pouch for a pair of gold coins.

"Captain's having us dine with him tonight. Our boss, big tall Davethran boy name of Verlyn, is in desperate need of some deflation. Can you make sure his soup gets a little extra...flavouring?"

She pops the two coins into the cook's hand quickly.

Ozzy_G
2009-01-22, 01:45 PM
(For Dion)
The cook licks his lips nervously, but eyes the coins greedily. Yes, he says nervously. He glances at his two assistants, who are watching Dion curiously, but don't seem to understand what's being said. Okay, I try. What flavour you want for him?

Toliudar
2009-01-22, 03:07 PM
Dion's face becomes an innocent mask. "Well, in order for someone to take the piss, it's important for there to be piss in the first place. Wouldn't you agree?"

She becomes serious.

"Look, you've been decent, and this is just a lark. Don't be putting your job at risk for this or anything. But...it would be a beautiful and shining thing."

Ozzy_G
2009-01-22, 05:11 PM
(For Dion)
The cook still looks uneasy, but he looks at the two gold coins again, and nods his head. It shall be done.

Toliudar
2009-01-22, 05:56 PM
Tapping fingers to head in mock-salute, Dion nods and withdraws.

NobleSavage
2009-01-22, 07:59 PM
"How about you? I'm betting this isn't just about the money. Talented man like yourself can find work most anywhere."[/COLOR]

"Was gettin' in a rut, you know, same formula, same results. Gets boring," he shrugged, "Gets you dead, too." Walking his fingers across the rail Reyhan looks blithely out to sea. "Figured if there was one person to break me of that it'd be you." He chuckles, "Lets just make sure this doesn't get too interesting."


Once he tires of the view, Reyhan makes his way below deck to the room he is to share with Jackel. Claiming the remaining bed, he slings his falchion on a nearby peg. Producing a thick blanket and extra clean shirt and short britches, he lays them on his bed in a neat, folded pile along with his cloak and turban.

Preparing for dinner, Reyhan takes out his mirror, holding it at arms length to take in his appearance. Smoothing out the wrinkles with his free hand, the man's clothes take on varying colors and styles before he seems content, sporting a conservative, reasonably formal dress. Going to the wash bowl, he splashes water on his face, shakes it free, and makes his way to the deck once more.

knewsom
2009-01-22, 09:05 PM
Runa shrugged and raised her eyebrow higher, grinning.

"You're not afraid to flaunt symbols of your power, neither am I. You could throw a man off a cliff, I could convince him to throw himself off for me."

She turned to head below decks to rest until Dinner.

"See you tonight."

The Great Skenardo
2009-01-22, 09:12 PM
Jackel Betruger
Jackel waves a friendly goodbye and watches her go. Or parts of her, anyways.

knewsom
2009-01-24, 02:20 AM
Below decks once more, Runa carefully opened the side pocket of her backpack. It was reinforced, padded, and ventilated, it's contents, a tiny, slumbering bat. His ears perked and he yawned sleepily as she gently withdrew him, but he quickly flitted to the corner of the room and dangled from the wooden framing. He tookone more deep yawn, smacked his lips with a squeak, and eas instantly asleep.

"Oh Bruno, you sleep all night, you sleep all day... You only budge when there are bugs to eat or I need your help. Perhaps naming after my brother was a little TOO appropriate."

Toliudar
2009-01-24, 03:30 AM
Dion

Dion pokes her head around from the bottom bunk at the sound of the squeak. She is more than a bit testy at being outmaneuvered for the top bunk.

"Hey, I didn't know that we were bringing pets along on this tr -"

Her voice instantly changes as she sees Bruno.

"Oh my goodness, he's ADORABLE! How long have you had him?"

knewsom
2009-01-24, 04:35 PM
Runa smiled.

"About two years. ...Summoning a familiar was a graduation prerequisite at Wizarding Academy in Ralm. At first, I was reluctant... But as soon as I met that lazy bones, I changed my mind. Pet him if you like, he likes being scratched just behind his ears."

She took a small step backwards to allow Dion to pet the tiny Bat.

If she accepts, Runa will cast prestidigitation on Dion when her back is turned, and make her all nice and clean, removing any and all of the previous nights funk and replacing it with a deep musk of roses.

Toliudar
2009-01-24, 07:47 PM
Dion

Dion nods, and carefully approaches the bat, hand outstretched.

"Oh, you went to that Academy, huh? I hear it's pretty tough."

With tremendous gentleness, Dion scritches Bruno.

By the way, some sailors might be stopping by here tomorrow. Be here or not, as you wish.

Ozzy_G
2009-01-25, 01:03 PM
Land is soon left behind, and you are out on the open sea, no land in sight, except in the distance tiny dots in the sky that must be the far-off Zahn isles.
There is a slight wind, so the ship moves at a steady pace, and it is a nice sunny day. The sailors mostly don't seem to have much to do, so most of them sit around on deck playing dice and listening to one hard-bitten looking Mokai woman playing a sort of stringed instrument.
Kohan comes up on deck, and leans on the rail, looking out morosely.
The captain sits on the steps by the forecastle, looking out across the sea.

The Great Skenardo
2009-01-25, 09:05 PM
Jackel Betruger
Jackel naturally gravitates to the gathering of Mokai sailors, grinning wide.
"That's your music, eh? Whyn't you give us a jig or a reel...Make the whole damn ocean know we're alive and proud!"

Ozzy_G
2009-01-26, 09:59 AM
The woman chuckles. She starts to play a more lively song. One of the female Mokai sailors gets up and starts to dance, the others sitting around clapping in time.

knewsom
2009-01-26, 10:41 AM
As Dion scritched Bruno's ears, the tiny bat squirmed slightly with glee, and Runa took the opportunity to deal with the Cleric's funk. With her back turned, she waved a hand silently, and suddenly, Dion felt... well, clean. No funk from last night, no greasy hair, and a subtle odor of musk and roses wafted to her nose. The change was subtle, but definitely something she would notice.

Toliudar
2009-01-26, 10:56 AM
Dion

Not turning from the bat, Dion's voice is more than a bit sulky.

"You could have offered. I'd have said yeah, and thanks too. Probably. I just got up a little late this morning, is all."

She allows her attentions to the bat to fade gently, then turns to Runa, shrugging.

"Look. Maybe we got off to a rough start. You kind of freaked me out last night."

She extends a hand - a now clean and rose-smelling hand - to Runa.

"Lemme try this again. Hi. I'm Dion."

knewsom
2009-01-26, 11:10 AM
Runa's pale cheeks blushed slightly, looking somewhat sheepish.

"Sorry. I do that to people sometimes. ...freak them out, I mean. And.. I didn't want to be rude... that's why I didn't say anything."

She took Dion's hand and shook it.

"Hi Dion. I'm Runa. And..."

She pulled her thick blonde locks to the side and edged down the choker, revealing on the nape of her neck a very small lightning bolt. She smiled lightly.

"We have more in common than you might think."

Toliudar
2009-01-26, 11:51 AM
Dion

Dion is immediately fascinated.

Really?! You have heard the word of Calamesh?

She sits down onto the lower bunk, and tugs at Runa to join her. Her voice drops to a conspiratorial whisper.

I first heard his hard and beautiful words on the streets of Ziggurat, and I never looked back. He's changed my life. Where'd you hear of Him?

knewsom
2009-01-26, 01:23 PM
Runa's eyes widened and she sat with Dion.

"You've been to Zigguraut? Wow. I've never traveled quite that far. I've mainly spent my time in Old Davethra. I first heard of Kalamesh from my parents. They cursed his name many times for the destruction of their home, but it's not like the could even remember, they couldn't have been more than infants when that happened. Besides, the raw power of Calamesh and how absolutely indiscriminate he is is what drew me to him. He'll drown peasant and noble alike if it suits him. That's fairer than most things in this world. I like that. Tell me about Zigguraut! Who told you about Calamesh?"

The Great Skenardo
2009-01-27, 04:15 PM
Jackel Betruger
Jackel smiles, tongue passing across his teeth once as he gets up to dance right beside the female sailor...

Lycar
2009-01-27, 05:31 PM
Verlyn

Verlyn wakes up.

Having laid down for a quick catnap was nice, but now he doesn't feel tired anymore. Actually he didn't exactly feel tired before either, but he doesn't really know what to do with himself right now.

At school, there was always something to do. And back in the days, when father took him on his diplomatic missions, he always found a way to occupy himself.

But since he's all grown up now, he's no longer supposed to run off into some brambles to chase some small critter. Or jump into a pond.

"*sigh* Is it still not evening?"

Verlyn looks over to Kohan's hammok, finding it empty.

So he just gets up and leaves his cabin. Maybe watch the sailors work some more. Yeah.

Then he passes the girl's cabin and hears voices.

He stops.

(Hmm? Is that Runa and that cleric woman.. Dion? Yes. SO they are chatting, eh? I wonder... )

Verlyn ponders. It is usually considered rude to eavesdrop. Because you might hear things you aren't supposed to. That's why the Stillwaters have always have considered it to be a virtue. After all, you can be so much better a negotiator when you know in advance what your opposition is willing to put up with.

(... and besides, if I learn something about the two, I'll be better at leading them. So I'm practically doing them a favour. Yeah, that works.)

Grinning to himself, he sneaks up the last few steps to the cabin door and... listens.

In case it might become story relevant:
Move Silently: [roll0] / Listen: [roll1]

Lycar

Toliudar
2009-01-28, 07:10 PM
Dion

Flattered by Runa's attention in spite of herself, Dion smiles with the memory.

"He was a prophet and visionary. Called himself the Eye of the Storm - same as the island where Calamesh fought his way back to freedom. He was absolutely compelling, driven -"

She pauses, and her smile shifts.

"- and a magnificent lover."

She laughs, either at the memory or her own childishness - it's hard to tell.

knewsom
2009-01-28, 07:18 PM
Just after she sat, Runa's ear perked. She gestured to Dion to keep talking and whispered lightly, twirling a copper piece between her fingers and closing her eyes.

casting Detect Thoughts. Will save DC 16 negates.

Toliudar
2009-01-28, 08:01 PM
Dion

Nodding with at least partial comprehension, Dion continues. Her voice rises slightly, as if excited by the memory.

"Yes indeed. I've head men say that they could make the earth move, but the Eye...well, he delivered. I remember this one time, we were in the back of a fruit wagon, hiding from the guard. That man could do things with melons that you would NOT believe. Woo!"

knewsom
2009-01-29, 12:21 AM
Runa opened here eyes for a moment, and frowned, her nose crinkling slightly as she did so. She started softly chanting once more, tumbling the copper piece again in her hand, this time faster as she concentrated harder on the spell!

aaaand, casting it again. will save dc 16.

Toliudar
2009-01-29, 09:37 AM
Dion

Dion's curiosity builds, and she gets a bit nervous. Sparks flare briefly between her left thumb and forefinger, but gutter out. She keeps talking.

"Oh, the times we had, me and the Eye. We were so young, and it felt like the entire world was just about to transform into something new and beautiful. That we were at the forefront of that transformation. 'Out of the crucible of fire and lightning, a purer and better world.' We spent an entire day practicing earthquake survival techniques, once. Which, as I recall, lead to having sex under a lot of stairwells. Good times."

Lycar
2009-01-29, 06:49 PM
Verlyn

Just as Verlyn begins to listen at the door and hears some of what Dion has to tell, he feels something try to invade his mind.

Quickly remembering the lessons learned at the academy, he focusses his mind and repells the assault.


(Huh.. what? Who would want to read mind here? Who even can do that? Runa could.. but how would she know I'm here? I'm as quiet as a mouse! Er.. cat on the prowl. Whatever. Surely she can't have heard me. Or could she? Damn, is the girl really that good? If so... )

Verlyn quickly straightens up again and knocks on the door gallantly.

"Hello? Anybody home?"

Lycar

knewsom
2009-01-29, 09:18 PM
Runa opened her eyes to narrow slits, her dark makeup contrasting her pale blue irises. She raised an eyebrow and continued twiddling the copper piece. The corners of her deep red lips turned upwards in a subtle but devilish (and clearly victorious) smile.

"Oh, do come in, Verlyn... No use standing outside all night. So; what exactly brings you out on the prowl?"

continuuing the spell throughout the conversation

Toliudar
2009-01-30, 04:43 AM
Dion

Sensing that there was something more between them than the kind of sparring she'd been doing with Verlyn this morning, Dion rises and stretches. In a rare burst of discretion, she decides to wait for a response.

Ozzy_G
2009-01-30, 06:49 AM
Up on deck, Jackel dances merrily with the woman sailor while the other sailors clap along to the music, laughing and shouting.
As Jackel dances around, he sees out of the corner of his eye another woman has come up on deck and is leaning against the rail, looking out. A davethran, her head shaved bald, a black tattoo of a spider squatting on top of her scalp. Blue tattooed lines radiate out to the sides of her eyes, and she wears a steel breastplate over a red robe patterned with black spiders and blue webs. At her hip is a scabbarded sword.

The Great Skenardo
2009-01-30, 08:33 AM
Jackel Betruger
Jackel finishes his dance, and gazes for a little while at the strange spider-woman. Taking a seat, he nudges one of the sailors.
"Hey," he growls, "Who's that on the rail?"

Ozzy_G
2009-01-30, 09:51 AM
One of the other passengers, replies the sailor. Some Davethran warrior girl. He looks uneasy. Bloody Davethrans, swanning around as if they own the place. But I guess their money's good, or the captain wouldn't have taken them.

Lycar
2009-01-30, 03:06 PM
Verlyn


Runa opened her eyes to narrow slits, her dark makeup contrasting her pale blue irises. She raised an eyebrow and continued twiddling the copper piece. The corners of her deep red lips turned upwards in a subtle but devilish (and clearly victorious) smile.

"Oh, do come in, Verlyn... No use standing outside all night. So; what exactly brings you out on the prowl?"

Verlyn struts into the girl's room with a smile (although it may seem a bit strained).

"Oh I was just... looking for a little bit of a distraction really. It is still some time till evening. I trust it that you find your accomodations to your liking?"

(Uh wait.. is she... I did defeat her attempt to invade my mind, didn't I? Or could she just try again? Dammit, maybe I shouldn't have zoned out during Spellcraft lessons. But by the gods, were they boooring! Aw man, I just hope she ends up needing some rescuing again... and to think that they were just going to the good parts... like back then with the guys and the peephole to the girl's dressing room...)

Lycar

knewsom
2009-01-30, 04:43 PM
For a flash, Runa's eyes opened wider, and it looked as though her face was about to twist with anger, but then she smiled and relaxed further on the lower bunk, allowing her blouse to hang off of her even looser, revealing substantially more cleavage than was previously visible. Her milky bosom now clearly visible, she put one of her booted feet up on the bed and allowed her knee to swing open, doing a decent job of looking sexy without necessarily flirting. She looked to Dion and winked with the eye not visible by Verlyn.

"Oh, they're just fine... Dion and I were just having a bit of... oh you know, girl talk. Join us, if you'd like. If that's ok with you, D."

The Great Skenardo
2009-01-30, 05:00 PM
Jackel Betruger
Jackel nods to himself, scratching his nose.
"Yeah? Okay then. Goddamn Davethrans. You know, they're the-"
Jackel stops suddenly.
"I don't know why, mate, but I got the sudden feeling there's somewhere else I'm supposed to be right now."
He squints hard, looking around the deck puzzled, and on edge.

Lycar
2009-01-30, 05:05 PM
Verlyn

Verlyn's smile widens and he gives a gallant bow to the two women.

"With pleasure my ladies."

He closes the door behind him and leans against the wooden wall, crossing his arms in front of his chest and placing one foot against the wall.

(Hrmph... seems like she can after all... hey Runa, if you hear me: You need to work on your poker face a bit. )

"But now you have made me curious: What exactly is 'girl talk' anyway?"

Verlyn still smiles. But the a thought crosses his mind and he frowns.

(... wait a moment... Hey! If you didn't know we guys were peeping at you, why did you make me come to class naked?! Unfair!)

Lycar

Toliudar
2009-01-30, 06:30 PM
Dion

Dion levers up an eyebrow.

"Girl talk, (http://www.myspace.com/girltalk) my Lord? Conversation too bold and risque for delicate male ears, of course. Wouldn't want to bruise your noble senses, after all."

Lycar
2009-01-30, 07:34 PM
Verlyn

Verlyn quirks an eyebrow in amusement.

"Delicate? I've been accused of some things in my life, but never of being delicate. Why don't you try me? "

(Delicate? I've been accused of some things in my life, but never of being delicate... haha, she's amusing, I like her already.)

Lycar

Toliudar
2009-01-31, 12:29 AM
Dion

Dion is pleased to rise to the challenge.

"Sure, My Lord. Runa and I were discussing whether you stuff your codpiece, or if that's all natural. Care to dispel any doubts?"

She steps closer to Verlyn, looking pointedly downward.

The Great Skenardo
2009-01-31, 12:37 AM
Jackel Betruger
The Mokai man winces and holds his head again. There it was again; the undeniable instinct that he should be somewhere else right now. But what did it mean?
"Augh, I need something to drink."
Hoisting himself up, Jackel stares for one last moment at the Davethran, before making his way below decks on his way to the galley.

Lycar
2009-01-31, 01:37 AM
Verlyn

"Oh my, you are foreward, aren't you? I must say, this is a refreshing change from all the 'skirting the issues' I'm used from home." Verlyn says with a laugh.

(Heh, it's not like that's something you didn't see before, eh Runa... decency be damned.)

Reaching down for his pants he slowly starts to unbutton it.

"But really Runa, you could easily have dispelled her doubts. After all, it's not like you haven't seen me naked before..."

Lycar

Ozzy_G
2009-01-31, 09:44 AM
Jackel heads down to the galley. He finds a fat, middle-aged Mokai stirring broth, and a couple of surly Mokai teenagers, a girl and a boy, sweeping.
The cook nods. Hey, you're one of the passengers, right? You want something?

The Great Skenardo
2009-01-31, 09:48 AM
Jackel Betruger
Jackel laughs, a gleam in his eye.
"Aw, ain't no call for that. I'm Jackel. Now what've you got in that galley there for a poor, parched man?"

Ozzy_G
2009-01-31, 10:05 AM
The cook chuckles. Ah, of course. You want grog?

Toliudar
2009-01-31, 10:09 AM
Dion

Ah, so maybe they've slept together. That would explain a little bit. Although not much.

Her frank demeanour unruffled, Dion steps back towards Runa, the better to compare notes with Runa.

"Hmm. Colour's not bad. Pity about the size, but I'm assuming he'd work with what he got. And...all right, you win. No obvious signs of disease yet."

Reaching into her pouch, Dion withdraws two gold coins and offers them to Runa. She smiles at Verlyn.

"I congratulate both you and your physician, My Lord."

The Great Skenardo
2009-01-31, 10:15 AM
Jackel Betruger
Jackel's grin stays fixed, but just for a moment his eyes take on a maniacal cast. It's gone as soon as it comes...
"Heh. Nah, nothing like that. I get kinda belligerent when I've had one or two. What you got, that ain't gonna make me want to punch folks?"

Lycar
2009-01-31, 11:01 AM
Verlyn

Verlyn buttons up again.

"So I pass inspection then? Good to know."

(Size... you've seen nothing m'lady... but wait a moment... oh this is too good to pass up...)

Smiling like a cat about to eat the canary, Verlyn adds "Of course, Runa never had to complain about the size... of my blades. You see, back in our days at the academy, we had a very special relationship, full of magic... She asked me to be her guardian and protector, in her own, irresistable way and of course I did agree. How could I not? From all the people she could have choosen from, she picked me, naturally. Why settle for anyone else but the best?"

(Haha, try to wriggle out of that!)

Lycar

Ozzy_G
2009-01-31, 01:21 PM
The cook shakes his head. Unless you want water, we ain't get much else to drink. We had some milk, but it seems to have gone sour already. No other booze, except the captain's wine, but I'm afraid you ain't getting that now. Jackel notices that the cook seems slightly nervous about something, but is trying to hide it.

The Great Skenardo
2009-01-31, 01:38 PM
Jackel Betruger
Jackel pauses, and peers closer at the chef.
"Water, I guess. Hey... is there somethin' you wanna whisper in Ol' Jackel's ear? 'Cause something's making you sweat."

Ozzy_G
2009-01-31, 05:20 PM
The cook laughs nervously. Just the heat. He fetches a cup of water. Here you go. Will that be all?

The Great Skenardo
2009-01-31, 07:57 PM
Jackel Betruger
Jackel accepts the water, but his eyes don't leave the chef's face for a long moment.
Then he looks down into the water.
"Oh, it's a secret, huh? Well, lemme share a secret with you in return, okay? I got a weakness for gossip, an' I like knowing what's going on around me. Call it habit out of my job, right? And I get super pissed if I think someone's not telling me a secret. Maybe it ain't none of my business... but then again, maybe it is."
Jackel shrugs and grins lopsidedly, holding out one hand.
"Now, look. maybe you're afraid how I'll take it, what with me being a crazy bastard and all. But I'll promise you right now, no matter what it is you're afraid of telling me, I'll be ten times more pissed if you don't tell me what it is right now."
The Mokai man clenches his outstretched hand into a fist, the leather gloves creaking with the the pressure as he draws himself up.

Ozzy_G
2009-02-01, 08:34 AM
The cook squeaks, and words come bubbling out of his mouth.
It's your boss, that aristocrat, the girl with you, the Davethran one, she wanted us to piss in his soup, she gave me gold, what was I supposed to say?

The Great Skenardo
2009-02-01, 08:44 AM
Jackel Betruger
Jackel lowers his fist, puzzled.
"Wait, what? You tellin' me...Pfffffft."
The Dangerous-looking Mokai man cracks up, finally succumbing to full belly-laughter. He pounds his fist on his thigh,.
"Ba-hahahaha...Hoo..." He wipes a few tears from his eyes, and then grins.
"Aw, hell. That's a great secret! It's all petty and spiteful. He-heh. That woman."
He claps his hand heavily on the chef's shoulder.
"Arright, that's pretty good. Here, a little gift for sharing a good secret with me."
Jackel presses three silver coins into the man's hand, and gives him a friendly smile. Abruptly, he clenches his hand tightly on the chef's shoulder.
"But joke's only funny if you don't take it too far. 'Cause you'd tell me if she paid you to spice up someone else's soup, right? Like, say, your ol' friend Jackel's soup? 'Cause lemme tell you...if somethin' don't taste quite right in my soup at dinner...if it ain't just about the most goddamn scrumptious soup I've ever eaten... I'ma pay you a little visit. We clear? Good."
Jackel releases his grip abruptly and pats the chef on the back.

Toliudar
2009-02-01, 10:13 PM
Dion


Of course, Runa never had to complain about the size... of my blades. You see, back in our days at the academy, we had a very special relationship, full of magic... She asked me to be her guardian and protector, in her own, irresistable way and of course I did agree. How could I not? From all the people she could have choosen from, she picked me, naturally. Why settle for anyone else but the best?

Dion shrugs.

"So, you've gone from protecting her to getting her to protect you, My Lord? Well, that's a step up in the world for one of you, I guess. And I'm sure your blades are plenty big and impressive, thanks."

She smiles thinly, glancing over at Runa for some kind of hint at what the hell was really going on.

Lycar
2009-02-04, 09:45 AM
Verlyn

"Oh, they get the job done." Verlyn says, looking quite smug "but of course, so far I have never been in a real life-or-death fight. The formal challenges at the academy don't count, we were not supposed to kill each other after all. And the time I thwarted a would-be assassin from killing one of my sister doesn't really count either. That pathetic worm didn't pose a challenge at all."

"But now I am on this quest to prove myself. I sure do hope to receive ample opportunity to test my mettle."

"But enough about me. So you are a cleric of Calamesh, yes? Tell me about him?"

Lycar

knewsom
2009-02-04, 10:31 AM
Runa smirked slightly and gave Dion one of those "I'll tell you later" looks.

"You can call it what you wish, Verlyn... but the reason you've never seen me in an fight to the death is because I have a knack for avoiding them, or... convincing others do the dirty work for me. Magic is good for much more than blowing things up."

Ozzy_G
2009-02-04, 12:19 PM
The cook nods, terrified. I'm sure you'll find the soup delicious, m'lord.

The Great Skenardo
2009-02-04, 03:03 PM
Jackel Betruger
Jackel shakes his head, smiling sadly.
"Aw, don't go calling me 'mi'lord,' man. I ain't your lord; ain't been born higher than you. Just call me Jackel, and just the two of us...we'll know what that means, okay? Good. Thanks for the water...and lemme know if you hear any more good secrets, 'kay?"
Jackel saunters out of the galley, and begins making his way to his room.
Time to do some thinking.

Toliudar
2009-02-04, 09:14 PM
Dion

He's an odd one, this Verlyn. Well, we'll take his question at face value.

Dion smiles quizzically at Verlyn.

"Calamesh. Well, My Lord, you've no doubt heard about his little coming-out party sixty years back? I wouldn't have figured you'd have been interested in such matters, since he's not about amassing power, hitting things with swords, or the like. Calamesh is the power of the storm, the power of the earth to move, change and reshape itself. The power of change.

"Now, I'd have figured you for a 'preserve the status quo' kind of guy, if you'll pardon my dwarvish. What with the My Lord thing and all, My Lord. Figured you were pretty happy with the quo in your status, if you know what I mean. Because Calamesh, and this is the important part to remember."

Her smile widens, her voice drops to a murmur, and she steps closer to the tall man.

"Calamesh doesn't give two flaming farts for the status quo."

The moment passes, and she is all business again.

"And you, my lord? Do you hold to the worship of any god?"

Lycar
2009-02-05, 03:04 PM
Verlyn

Verlyn smiles.

(Direct and to the point. Just like a warrior ought to be. Father would enjoy talking to her.)

"You know, you really ought to talk with my father some day. He would love to discuss this 'Status Quo' with you."

Verlyn detaches himself from the wall and starts pacing around the room, launching into a monologue.

"What you are refering to as the 'Staus Quo', that is, the matter of things as they are, right at this moment, is, in fact, constantly changing. Or as my father would put it: The only true constant in life is change. We get born young and small, then we grow old and tall. We change."

Whirling around to face Dion directly, straigthening himself up and clasping his hands behind his back, he goes on "But some things, the more they change, the more they stay the same."

"You may look at the world and find many things amiss. The constant state of war between nations, which is only briefly interrupted by occasional outbursts of peace, the way the noble castes seem more buisy tearing each other's throats out rather then doing their jobs, the unfairness of it all."

"But what you really mean by 'Status Quo', is it not the fact that I and my fellows enjoy the fruits of the labour of the common man, for no more virtue then the accident of our births? Is it not that you find us at fault for living lives of luxury while our lesser brethren face hardship and starvation? The ever-looming threat of war and death? But what would you change about that?"

"Unless you remake the world in a way where every single living being is equal to.. no.. the very same as every other being, in a way that is so different, so utterly alien to what life as we know it is about, there will always be differences: Some will be stronger, smarter, hardier, comlier then the others. And the strong will always leverage their natural assets to improve their lot in life. As will the smart. And the beautiful."

Verlyn looks over at Runa and winks at her before going on.

"So in other words: Unless you utterly remake the worlds very foundations, you will always have those who rule, and those who are ruled."

"And the fault is not with those who happen to find themselves in a position of power. The fault is with those who are blessed such and then do nothing with their fortune but to squander it for petty selfish things, those who abuse their gifts to damage the world. The fault is with those who sit in their towers or castles or palaces and do not rule, but rather tyrannize their fellow beings."

"A true noble, one born to the blood, such an individual ought to be held to a higher standard and rise to the calling. A noble ough to rule, to enrich the lives of their lessers, to be a shining example of virtue. Be it a wise judge who meditates disputes fairly, an inspired artist who enriches the lives of all with his creations or just the humble warrior who fights the fights that need to be fought so that others don't have to."

"Am I happy being a noble? A member of the Davethran mage caste?"

Verlyn tilts his head slightly and peers at Dion intently "I'll tell you what: I do enjoy the perks. The luxury. The food and drink. But the times I enjoyed most were when I was travelling around with father. When I fough and prevailed against my peers at the academy. When I saved the life of my sister."

"*sigh* You know, the Stillwaters aren't exactly known for their warriors. Our Oathsworn are more bodyguards and peacekeepers then soldiers or generals. Heh, our family motto translates to 'Peace through Verbosity'. As long as people are still talking, they don't kill each other."

"But I'd rather live up to the ideal of the noble knight who fights dragons and saves maidens. Get things done. And in that way, I will do my own 'changing of the status quo'."

"As for gods... they exist. Our grandfather didn't think too highly of them. Although he had some grudging respect for the Grey Watcher and Isana for some reason."

Verlyn makes a pause.

(Now watch her face, this might be interesting...)

"Speaking of my grandfather... did you know he was there when Calamesh escaped his prison?"

Lycar

Toliudar
2009-02-06, 04:56 PM
Dion

As Verlyn talks...and talks...Dion starts out staring defiantly at him. Through the sheer barrage of words, this softens into a kind of apathy, and then into a dull stupor. Only the last sentence snaps her out of this.

"Huh. Trust a noble to spend ten minutes without actually answering a yes or no question. Still, you got my attention. Who was this grandfather of yours? I'm guessing he'd have died in the explosion - can't imagine too much having survived that blast."

Lycar
2009-02-06, 06:06 PM
Verlyn

Verlyn chuckles "Thank you. That's one of the things father made us learn. You know, 'Peace through Verbosity' and all that. But to actually answer your original question: No."

"As for grandfather: That would be Orin Stillwater, son of Darin Stillwater. And he was on the island that held the ... er.. obelisk or whatnot where Calamesh used to be imprisoned. Had to fight some cultists or other."

Verlyn frowns, apparently trying to remember something.

[spoiler](So what was it again that he wrote... something about fighting some host... out-of-body-experience... trying to steal the god's power... hum. Oh well, I can always re-read it some time later.)

"Hrm.. he wrote a diary you know. I had to read it. We all had to. But it has been a while and I kinda only skimmed over the boring parts. Anyway, they fought some people and some priests wanted to suck the power out of that obelisk and things didn't go so well. One moment they were talking to some guy and the next moment the guy goes 'oh crap' and ... I guess that's when Calamesh got free. Can't remember having read anything about any explosions though."

Lycar

Toliudar
2009-02-06, 06:28 PM
Dion

Dion's face flushes with excitement. She steps in closer to Verlyn, speaking quickly.

"You mean your grandfather was there, witnessed Calamesh's rebirth - and wrote about it? Where would that diary be? Is there any chance that I could read it? This could be fantastic! If he had any flair for language at all - and if he's a Stillwater, as you say...well, that's terrific. So...the diary? Maybe, as soon as we finish this errand of yours, you could write some kind of letter home for me? I wouldn't need the diary, just permission to copy that passage, and anything else he said."

She is staring intently at Verlyn, a tentative smile on her face.

Lycar
2009-02-06, 06:52 PM
Verlyn

Verlyn looks amused and answers "Sure, why not. Father is treating grandfather's diary like The Holy Book of Stillwater. So it's only fitting that one of faith would read it. Why don't you accompany me back to Stillwater Manor once we return from our little trip? I am certain that father will allow you to read it if I put in a good word for you."

(See Runa? Now she is extra motivated to take good care of me and no spell was cast...)

Lycar

Toliudar
2009-02-06, 07:07 PM
Dion

Dion nods with what approximates respect.

"Thank you. I'd appreciate hearing more about your grandfather. But I guess we've got time."

She glances back towards Runa. There would be lots more time to hear about that lightning bolt around her neck, and all of the things it might mean.

"It's getting on. Shall we head over to the galley?"

knewsom
2009-02-06, 07:08 PM
Runa grinned and stopped twirling the copper piece. If only he knew... half of what I do has nothing to do with magick.

With a softer smile she hopped atop her bunk and dropped her boots down at the foot of the bed, ivory toes intwining almost of their own accord, with her cloak and haversack hung with care. She took her pillow and made herself more comfortable for the continuing conversation, though it looked as though she might doze off at any moment. Waking up early does take its toll.

At the mention of the galley, she perks up noticeably. If there's one thing in this world better than sleep... it's food.

"Ooh, is it suppertime then? I do look forward to seeing what kindof spread they can set out for such fine and cultured guests..."

Lycar
2009-02-07, 10:11 AM
Verlyn

"Heh, good idea. Food sure is one of the most enjoyable things in life. Ladies first."

Verlyn flourishes with a grin and holds the door for the two women.

He will follow them to the galley.


Lycar

Toliudar
2009-02-08, 04:58 PM
Dion

Declamations of not being a "lady" silenced by thoughts of getting a first hand account (!) of Calamesh's return, Dion suffers herself to lead the other two down to dinner.

The Great Skenardo
2009-02-08, 05:05 PM
Jackel Betruger
Jackel lays in his hammock for a while, picking at his teeth.
Finally, he puts his boots back on, dons his chain shirt and regular shirt, straps on his sword, and heads down to dinner.

Ozzy_G
2009-02-08, 08:35 PM
Verlyn, Dion and Runa troop up to the captain's cabin, in the ship's aftcastle. He ushers them in, grinning. Hello, hello! Come, sit down!
The cabin is larger than your rooms, with windows at the rear, the light of the setting sun shining in.
A large table is in the centre of the room, with chairs around it. Judging from the pile of books discarded in the corner, you'd guess it doubles as the captain's desk.
Around it are 10 chairs, packed quite close. Already sitting down is a grim looking Davethran, her head shaved bald, a black tattoo of a spider squatting on top of her scalp. Blue tattooed lines radiate out to the sides of her eyes, and she wears a steel breastplate over a red robe patterned with black spiders and blue webs. At her hip is a scabbarded sword. She peers at you warily.
Next to her is a much friendlier looking man, a very plump and bald Davethran man, wearing a blue robe with gold trim, and a variety of jewels. He grins, revealing pointed fangs, but despite this, he looks fairly jovial. Greetings! he bellows. Pleasure to meet you!
While the captain is showing you to your chairs, in front of slightly tarnished silver cutlery, Kohan knocks and comes in, sitting down nervously next to Verlyn, avoiding his eyes.
Jackel and Reyhan both reach the cabin at about the same time, the smiling captain ushering them in as well.

Toliudar
2009-02-09, 10:53 AM
Dion

Still riding the wave of enthusiasm, Dion veritably bounces into the galley, smiling. She takes her appointed seat and waves vaguely to the grumpy woman and the cheerful man.

"Hey. Dion."

knewsom
2009-02-09, 11:20 AM
Runa entered the room calmly and paused a moment with a brief expectant look at the captain behind her chair. Once he got the hint and withdrew it, she sat delicately and nodded (although more deeply that Dion) to the Davethrans.

So... an Oathsworn and her liege... What on earth can they want where we're headed?

"Good evening. ...I'm Runa."

The Great Skenardo
2009-02-09, 12:20 PM
Jackel Betruger
Jackel enters the cabin, knocking the doorframe once with his knuckles as he does.
"Hey." He nods to the captain, but his gaze passes right over two Davethrans.
He takes a seat on the other side of Dion from Verlyn, slinging his heavy blade a bit further to his left to accommodate. He drums his fingers on the tabletop, absently.

Lycar
2009-02-09, 01:36 PM
Verlyn

Verly approaches the captain's cabin with a swagger, pausing to greet the cpatain with a bow.

"Good evening, Captain. Thank you for your generous invitation."

He approaches the seat next to Runa but does not sit down immediately, as he notices the other two Davethrans.

"Good evening. I didn't know there are others passengers on this ship. Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Verlyn Felyn Stillwater, from House Stillwater. Who do I have the pleasure to dine with this evening?"

Verlyn waits for a reply and then gracefully slips onto his chair.

Lycar

Ozzy_G
2009-02-09, 02:42 PM
The plump man grins. Ah, the Stillwaters! I've met Gebhard Stillwater a couple of times actually. My name is Krenaz Morl, of House Morl, from Zardis, and this is my oathsworn Eria Sharl, or our servant house, House Sharl. The woman nods, but there is no warmth from her. We're on our way to Moka Ven, and then onto Goza Ruz. He rolls his eyes. We've got to see that so-called King Goza, deliver a message for the Empress. Uh! Travelling through the jungle to meet some jumped-up warlord and then pretend like his mud hut doesn't smell like cowpat isn't my idea of fun!
The captain sits down at the end of the table, while you talk. You note that there's one more chair than there are people.

The Great Skenardo
2009-02-09, 03:11 PM
Jackel Betruger
Jackel says nothing, but his gaze lingers on Krenaz, taking him in from top to bottom. The handsome Mokai scratches his beard, and his mouth twists into a slight, somewhat sinister smile.

Lycar
2009-02-09, 04:44 PM
Verlyn

Verlyn smiles, apparently pleasntly surprised.

"So you have met my father? Of course, in our profession we do get around a lot. So... you are on a mission from the Empress herself? Then you must be a highly skilled diplomat to be trusted with such a delicate task."

Verlyn almost purrs as he speaks the last two sentences.

He did not miss how disparagingly the man spoke about the mokai, and in the presence of the mokai Captain no less.

Apparently this guy thinks he's a better diplomat then he actually is.

(Huh. His bodyguard looks she's got a very good idea that she's going to have her hands full trying to protect this guy from himself. Maybe he fell out of favour and the message he delivers reads 'Kill this man and the grain shipment is yours.' or something like that. Ha, I'd love to see how that works out. But no, I'm on a mission myself and I promised father, no distractions. Maybe I'll hear about his fate some day.)

Lycar

Ozzy_G
2009-02-09, 09:00 PM
The captain's smile is somewhat fixed, as he gets up and gets a bottle of wine from the side.
Krenaz puffs up. Well, yes, he blusters, it is fairly important, a mission of immense importance really, but when you're such a respected man as myself, such a thing is of little consequence really.
His bodyguard just waits, impassive.

NobleSavage
2009-02-09, 11:17 PM
Reyhan

Craning his head around the frame to make out the gathering beyond Jackel, fixing the small assembly with a blithe smile. Taking a seat close to Dion, he looks over the table, then back to the door, clearly anxious for the food to arrive.

"So, ah, who's missing?" Reyhan jerks his head toward the empty seat, hands fumbling with his napkin.

Lycar
2009-02-10, 01:42 AM
Verlyn

Verlyn purrs on, smiling still "Indeed. Certainly your deeds and exploits are noteworthy. Would you do us the honour and tell us a bit about how you earned such a favour from our Empress?"

Turning his attention to the bodygard, Verlyn asks her "So you are protecting a very important man there. So you are from Zardis. What schools did you visit there? I've heard good things about the training they offer."

Lycar

The Great Skenardo
2009-02-10, 09:29 AM
Jackel Betruger
Jackel grips the edge of the table with one hand, his expression perfectly affable, but somewhat still.
"Message, huh? Well, I hope you got it memorized, 'cause I'd be real surprised if a dumb Mokai warlord can even read, right?"

Ozzy_G
2009-02-10, 10:24 AM
Ah, that's true, nods Kreznaz Morl, but I have the message, so I can just read it out. Do not fear, your Kings will hear the Empress' wise words!

His bodyguard talks guardedly across the table to Verlyn. I trained at the Fallen Lotus school in Zardis, the Imperial school for bodyguards. Have you fought at any of the tournaments in Zardis?

The captain leans across to Reyhan. Well, there's this woman from...
Suddenly, the door bangs open, and in steps a tall, wirey woman in hide trousers and a wolf-skin wrapped around her torso, the head resting over hers. Around her neck is a necklace from which hang about twenty human finger bones. Her face is painted white, and at her hip is slung a savage looking bronze axe. Heya, she bellows, captain of ship! I come for eating!
She thumps down on the free chair. Fetch the ale, I thirst! She looks about at the rest of you. Kreznaz draws back, looking slightly disgusted, and his bodyguard's eyes narrow. I am Ruka Shalag of Wolf Tribe! I greet you! She laughs, though you're not sure what at.

Lycar
2009-02-10, 05:23 PM
Verlyn

Ignoring the 'diplomat' for the time being, Verlyn answers the Oathsworn's question.

"Sadly, no. Not yet. But I plan on doing so as soon as I have earned the privilege. Right now I am on a quest on behalf of my House and father though. Duty first. But that is what being a noble is about, isn't it? I am afraid I'm not as familiar with the Fallen Lotus school as I would like to be. Would you mind telling me a bit about it."

Verlyn is interrupted as the wild woman enters the room though. He watches her entrance, slightly irritated at first, but with growing amusement.

Nodding at her with a smile, he returns the greeting.
"Welcome, Ruka Shalag of Wolf Tribe. I am Verlyn Felyx Stillwater of House Stillwater and these", Verlyn pauses for a short moment to gesture at his companions, "... are my companions."

He doesn't go on to introduce the others. They are all grown ups and don't need him to talk for them. Besides, they are hired help and not servants. It would be impolite to presume to speak on their behalf, even though they are of lower rank then him.

Lycar

The Great Skenardo
2009-02-10, 06:18 PM
Jackel Betruger
Jackel wrinkles his nose and makes a face, but then he smiles to himself.
With an odd gleam in his eye, Jackel turns back to Kreznaz.
"So, M'lord, whatcha think about the Darven?"

Ozzy_G
2009-02-10, 06:35 PM
Darven? asks Ruka, leaning across, and grabbing the glass of wine the captain pours for her. Yes, brown man, you are right, I am Darven! Of Wolf Tribe, great and mighty tribe!
Kreznaz looks with barely hidden disgust at the finger bones hanging from her neck.

NobleSavage
2009-02-10, 11:22 PM
Reyhan

The smile grows from a slight tweaking of the corners of his lips to a horsey grin showing his white, and somewhat pointed, teeth. The woman was just right, injected the right mixture of chaos into the group to keep everyone on their toes.

"So, Ruka," he intones congenially, and in Dar Ven, "What brings you out here, so far from home?" If one was to be stuck in close quarters with a volatile person, Reyhan found it was best to have them view you as an ally.

Ozzy_G
2009-02-11, 12:48 PM
I am going home, replies Ruka, swigging her wine as the captain pours everyone a glass. I have been on quest!
Kreznaz leans forward, trying to ignore her. So, Verlyn, why are you on this trip to some barbaric part of the world?

The Great Skenardo
2009-02-11, 02:57 PM
Jackel Betruger
Jackel taps the wineglass with a brown finger, scowling.

Lycar
2009-02-11, 03:31 PM
Verlyn

Verlyn smiles at Kreznaz but, seemingly oblivious to his desire to blend out the presence of the Darven woman, adresses her first.

"So you return home victorious? How peculiar. I myself am just embarking on one!"

Turning to the other noble, Verlyn goes on "A rite of passage if you will. Travel to Mount Keshra, do something to prove I was there, return home triumphant. "

"You see, when you happen to be born a noble, you have to do so much just to meet expectations. Born a noble, still a noble... " Verlyn chuckles for a moment "If you judge me by my achievements, I am afraid I don't amount to much. A Captain on the other hand..." Verlyn pauses again to raise his glass to the mokai captain "... nobody is born a captain. You have to earn that title."

" I will prove myself worthy of the name I bear. And then I'll go on an add to the fame and honour of my family."

Lycar

The Great Skenardo
2009-02-11, 03:57 PM
Jackel Betruger
Jackel picks up the wineglass and swirls its contents, glowering.
Honor of your family, huh? Bet it was the honor of bein' the fastest to knuckle under to the Empress.

Toliudar
2009-02-11, 05:52 PM
Dion

Dion pours herself a small glass of wine. Start slow, build up a base.

She smiles down the table at Ruka.

"So, what's this quest you just finished. I'd offer to lend a hand, but it looks like you already got a few extras."

Ozzy_G
2009-02-11, 07:07 PM
The captain nods appreciatively at Verlyn's comments, but Kreznaz looks bemused.
Ruka blinks, not understanding Dion's joke, but then laughs uproariously, banging the table with her fist. The captain winces. Yes, they are fingers of enemies I slew, many skilled enemies! Her face suddenly changes from laughter to grim seriousness. I was on vision quest, sent by shamans. To meet spirit. Learn truth of spirits, understand that which is. Now I know. Now I can return, and be chief of wolf tribe. She grins again. Like you noble, yes! You also go on quest to prove you can be chief of your Davethran tribe! she says to Verlyn.

NobleSavage
2009-02-11, 07:26 PM
"Mmmm," Reyhan piques an eyebrow appreciatively at Dion, "I've had friends with similar tastes in jewelry, Ruka, I'd be very interested to hear about this quest of yours. Perchance are, ah, any of those" he gestures with his chin toward her necklace, "recent additions?"

Lycar
2009-02-12, 01:45 AM
Verlyn

Verlyn smiles.

"Thank you Ruka, you are most kind. I'm afraid, before I could inherit the position of Head of House Stillwater, I would have to slay about half my family. Call me soft-hearted, but I like them too much to do this. Well, most of them anyway."

Turning to the other noble, he asks "What about you? Any chance to rise in rank if you pull this mission of yours off?"

Lycar

Ozzy_G
2009-02-12, 10:39 AM
Yes, says Ruka proudly. She lifts up the finger bone on the far right. This is man in Sarin. I was drunk in space between huts, no one there, he comes down and has little knife, tiny knife. She laughs. He says he will kill me if I do not give him gold! With tiny little knife! She pats her axe. I get Slays-Moon out, is my axe, I cut off his head, and I keep his finger. She giggles. Lots of more men come, they shout a lot, wave arms and weapons, I run out of Sarin, was much fun!
Kreznaz looks like he's going to be sick, but tries to talk to Verlyn. Well, of course the Empress rewards her favourites well. I am of course already in a great position, but no doubt she'll shower land and treasure on me.
At this point, the doors open, and a fat Mokai and two surly teenage Mokai, a girl and a boy, come in. The fat Mokai grins. Hello, good travellers! For your first course, I have made this fine soup, tomato and basil. His two servers start handing out bowls of reddish soup. It looks a little bit watery to be honest.

The Great Skenardo
2009-02-12, 11:33 AM
Jackel Betruger
Jackel leans back in his chair, examining his fingernails, and leaving his wine untouched.

Lycar
2009-02-12, 03:51 PM
Verlyn

Verlyn smiles still.
"Fascinating. So, basically, you went to another country, met a lot of people and then killed them?"

Turning his attention to Kreznaz, Verlyn asks of him "Of course. BUt.. I can not help but wonder: What exactly are you going to do with all that land and treasure? Put it in your trophy case?"

Then the food arrives.

"Ah! There comes the main attraction of the evening! One of the most basic joys life has to offer: A good meal."

Verlyn eagerly waits to be srved. He seems to show an almost childlike excitement about it all.

Lycar

Ozzy_G
2009-02-12, 04:07 PM
Reka shrugs. I only killed 4 people in Davethra.
Kreznaz, still trying to ignore her, looks a bit confused by Verlyn's question. Well, the land I'd use for game reserves or farming, the gold I'd put in my vaults. What else would I do with it?
Now you've got your soup, you can start eating. The soup is not bad, but not great. It is just soup after all.

The Great Skenardo
2009-02-12, 06:22 PM
Jackel Betruger
Jackel picks up his bowl and spoon and contemplates it for a moment. Then he casually looks around the table, to see how the others are enjoying theirs.

knewsom
2009-02-12, 06:24 PM
Runa's eyes burned with fascination and curiosity at the new member of the table... She eyed the finger bones with respect that verged on desire. It was odd for her to see someone even more exotic than herself, and she relished this rare opportunity to not become the defacto center of attention, celebrating silently as she sipped her soup. She practically ignored the noble, either because it's nothing strange, or because he disgusted her as much as the Dar'Ven disgusted him.

"I'd be careful, Ruka... lay claim to all the lands your tribe roams, mark it well, with scent and sigil... or else perhaps his Empress will give it to him, not knowing it already belonged to you."

NobleSavage
2009-02-12, 07:11 PM
Reyhan

"Yes yes," Reyhan looks around for bread to dab in the weak soup, "but what about your vision? What did you see?" His dark hair whips excitedly as the Shavaran waits the warrior woman's response, munching on a roll he must have pulled from one of his many pockets.

Lycar
2009-02-13, 02:47 AM
Verlyn

Verlyn happily takes his first spoonfull of soup. But his face immediately distorts into an expression of disgust.

He carefully moves the spoon back to the plate, making sure as much of the disgusting soup as possible goes back that way. Then he grabs his cup of wine and takes a few big gulps to wash away the aftertaste.

He looks around the other dinner guests, bewildered, to see if any of them seem to show the same reaction.

To gloss over it, he answers the other noble's question "Well, I don't know what the others would do with it. But putting it to good use would be best. Farming is better then a game preserve really. And what good is all that gold gathering dust in your treasure chamber? Spend it on something, that way it goes around."

Lycar

The Great Skenardo
2009-02-13, 08:15 AM
Jackel Betruger
With a suppressed chuckle, Jackel picks up his spoon and tries a bit of the soup, listening with only half an ear to the conversation. Nobles Talking, Where's my Pillow?
For the moment, the Mokai contents himself with moving his gaze from person to person, lingering a little on the more attractive people.

Ozzy_G
2009-02-13, 10:08 AM
Ruka looks at Reyhan, her piercing gaze looking as if she is looking right into his soul. She says nothing.
Then she turns to Runa. Hah, if Empress tries take our land, I am chief, I challenge her! Maybe I be Empress then. She chuckles.
Kreznaz and his bodyguard do not look impressed.
Kreznaz grits his teeth, and with a forced smile, replies to Verlyn. Well, I suppose I could spend it on a celebration of some sort, a big party. Or perhaps a new steed of some sort.

The Great Skenardo
2009-02-13, 10:52 AM
Jackel Betruger
Jackel chokes on his soup! Thumping himself on the chest and coughing, he turns in his seat to face Ruka A mixture of emotion is on his coffee-colored face; a little admiration, some amusement, and then something buried a little deeper.
"You? Become the Empress? Ha-hah! I'd like to see it happen."
he chuckles and cracks his knuckles.
"Oh yeah. Good times."

Toliudar
2009-02-13, 11:12 AM
Dion

Dion plunges heedless into the soup, caring not at all about the quality. She is focused on this fascinating new woman, this "Ruka".

"So...you've seen the spirits - the ancestor spirits of your wolf tribe? And you went to Davethra to do so? Fascinating. And what did the spirits tell you to do next, once you return to your people?"

Ozzy_G
2009-02-13, 12:13 PM
Ruka laughs along with Jackel, but she peers at Dion suspiciously when she speaks. My ancestor spirits do not live in Davethra. These were...
She drains her glass, and looks at Runa. Why is your hair such a strange colour?

knewsom
2009-02-13, 12:30 PM
Runa's look of fascination turned to one of bemused annoyance.

"I'm certain the reason my hair is blonde is far less interesting than the reason a Dar'Ven was in Davethra on a vision-quest. Surely a big strong chief like yourself wouldn't mind telling such humble company..."

Diplomacy time. [roll0]

Lycar
2009-02-13, 02:50 PM
Verlyn

Verlyn looks at Ruka, thankful for the distraction.

"A vision quest you say? That reminds me of something... what was it again.. oh yes, ha! My grandfather, Orin Stillwater! Once he was on a quest of his own, something about trying to win the favour of the gods to raise some comrades of him who had been slain by demonic magic or something.. anyway, so he was on this quest and he met that guy, uh.. some prince or something. He was on a quest himself, so he could become the chieftain of his tribe, once his father would... uh.. 'retire'. Anyway, my grandfather was quite impressed with his... aplomb. Yes, that's the word. A fearless fighter who singlegandedly charged the 'Tower of Madness'."

Verlyn raises his glass to Ruka. "As much as I fear that our Empress would eat your soul, should you ever challenge her, as much I am confident that you would put up a fight worthy of her esteemed majesty."

With a little sideways glance at Runa, he adds "Indeed. I would be greatly honoured if you would deem me worhty to share the tale of your vision quest with me."

Lycar

Ozzy_G
2009-02-13, 08:25 PM
Ruka licks her lips with the tip of her tongue, nervously.
The door opens, and the cook returns, taking your soup bowls.
So, your grandfather went on many exotic quests, did he not? I have heard stories of him, says Kreznaz towards Verlyn, trying to attract his attention. Wasn't he a good friend of the famous Archmagus Ismal?
The cook gives Jackel a look of wry despair, as if to say "these whacky foreigners".

The Great Skenardo
2009-02-14, 12:33 AM
Jackel Betruger
Jackel scratches his cheek and smiles back, although it's more like a smirk.
"Good soup. My compliments to the cook."
The Mokai leans back a little in his chair, and pulls out a battered notebook from his breast pocket. Similarly, a stick of charcoal is produced, and a few careful words written before being slipped back into the pocket.

Lycar
2009-02-14, 06:11 PM
Ruka licks her lips with the tip of her tongue, nervously.
The door opens, and the cook returns, taking your soup bowls.
So, your grandfather went on many exotic quests, did he not? I have heard stories of him, says Kreznaz towards Verlyn, trying to attract his attention. Wasn't he a good friend of the famous Archmagus Ismal?
The cook gives Jackel a look of wry despair, as if to say "these whacky foreigners".

Verlyn

Verlyn turns to Kreznaz again to answer his question "Well... as far as I recall, that would depend on your definition of 'friendship' really. It is true though, that he helped Archmage Ismal to become Archmage of Ralm in the first place. He was there when the former Archmage Govan met his end. 'Squashed by the weight of his own ambitions' as he called it."

Verlyn didn't fail to notice that the other didn't seem to find anything wrong with their soup. Was someone trying to poision him? But he doesn't feel ill. Maybe his strong physique just withstands the poision? Whatever it is, he'll find out about it. Or rather, Runa will. That's what she's good at. Really good.

Lycar

Toliudar
2009-02-15, 05:11 PM
Dion

Jackel's mention of the soup penetrates Dion's swirl of thoughts about visions, spirits and diaries. She glances hastily down at her own soup. No. Not very good, but not...very bad either. It seemed like Verlyn had lost his appetite. She wondered if it was seasickness or...something else entirely.

Ah well. She tuned back into the conversation, but folks were now nattering on about some snooty Archmage. Bo-ring!

She turned to look at Runa, and wondered for the first time about the blonde hair. It certainly wasn't typically Davethran, but then, little about this spitfire of a woman was.

Ozzy_G
2009-02-15, 07:06 PM
Please, says Kreznaz, tell me more! I know they claimed that the Archmage was intending to release Gothul. He looks quizzical. I never really understood that. After all, Gothul was already dead. He leans forward. I also know Azakan Zere was there, but he always refused to speak of it in public.

Lycar
2009-02-16, 03:23 PM
Verlyn

Verlyn shrugs "That was the point: To raise a dead god, you need the power of a god. So they tried to tap into the power of the god entombed in that obelisk. But the Gothulites were defeated, although not before weakening the wards on the obelisk. Enough to allow that god to break free again."

"But enough about me. So that mission of yours... I fully understand that you are to keep details confidental, but... are we threatening the Mokai with war or peace this time?"

Lycar

Ozzy_G
2009-02-17, 10:38 AM
Oh, peace, I'm sure they'll be glad to hear, he says smiling patronisingly at Jackel and the captain, who seems to have lost the good cheer he had when you met him in the morning, and isn't saying much. The Empress has decided to be magnanimous and extend the hand of friendship to this particular so-called King. His look sours. The truth is, King Moka is becoming very irritating. Davethran villages near the border have been raided, he claims by bandits but we think his own soldiers, and Davethran traders in his cities have been having problems. And he refuses to exploit the old gold mines in his territory! If, however, he was overthrown, and his territory taken by King Goza... well, perhaps he'd be more reasonable.
So, why are you here? Ruka asks Dion and Runa. You go with your chief? Why he not go alone? Are you his wives?
Meanwhile, the cook serves the main course, chicken, lamb, root vegetables, with a spicy sauce.

Toliudar
2009-02-17, 10:49 AM
Dion

At Ruka's last question, Dion almost chokes on a bite of lamb, and quickly washes it down with a swig of wine.

"NO! I mean, I believe that Chief Verlyn is still up for grabs, if you're interested. No."

She glances over at Runa with a "spare me" look.

"I'm sure it won't surprise you to learn that Davethran chiefs usually get others to do the hard work for them. So we are here to help him with his mission. Quest. Thing."

She tucks into her meal for a moment, then tries again with Ruka.

"So, if your spirits are back home, what did you have to do in Davethra, then?"

knewsom
2009-02-17, 12:30 PM
Nice LOTR reference Tol! My coffee almost ended up on the keyboard by way of my nose.

Runa's eyes widened at the thought of being married to Verlyn, and she took a long drink of wine while Dion spoke to gather her thoughts.

"No, I'm not married, and I believe it would be inappropriate for Lord Stillwater to marry outside of his noble caste anyhow. I, while a spellcaster, am no noble. I am descended from Kumari refugees who fled destruction and upheaval to come to a newly stabilized Davethra. And I believe what Sparky here means to say is that part of being a Davethran chief is delegating responsibility."

She shot Dion a quick look of "let's change the subject shall we?".

"So uh, Ruka, did you speak Davethran before your trip? Or did you pick it up along the way?"

The Great Skenardo
2009-02-17, 03:01 PM
Jackel Betruger
Jackel listens to what the noble says, twirling his fork idly between his fingers. He smiles as he stabs a piece of chicken and eats it, chewing slowly.
" 'S good food," he comments, and then he puts his elbows on the table, leaning forward.
"Yeah, I hear that. My dad was Davethran, soldier class. I visited my mom's place once, and the place smelled almost as bad as the b*tch did herself. 'Bout time someone swept in an' cleaned up, right?"
He punctuates the statement with a sweep of the fork, still smirking.

Lycar
2009-02-18, 01:45 PM
Verlyn



[COLOR="Green"]So, why are you here? Ruka asks Dion and Runa. You go with your chief? Why he not go alone? Are you his wives?
Meanwhile, the cook serves the main course, chicken, lamb, root vegetables, with a spicy sauce.

Lamb... Verlyn always had a thing for lamb. So he gratefully accepts a slice of lamb roast and some veggies and can all but stop himself from wolfing down the delicious meat.

When he hears Runa's comment, he almost chokes on his mouthfull though.

"*cough*cough* Oh, haha, no, I assure you, I am still totally available. Also I won't be eligible for marriage before I have proven myself anyway. Hence my quest. Runa is just a good friend from way back. Also, she is a very skilled magican. And Dion.. well, if someone has the favour of the gods on her side, you want her to be on your side too."

"But yes, delegating stuff. It seems that it is hard to find all the things you want from a good chief in one person. Wise, strong, just, clever. Usually you get one quality. Two maybe. Three is stretching it and all four.. that's the sort that make it into legends. But a wise ruler surrounds himself with advisors who posess the qualities he may not have in as much abundance he might wish for. And havings children who are strong warriors helps too."

A sort of mischievious spark enters Verlyn's eyes as he goes on "How about you, Ruka? You certainly have proven your strength, slaying so many enemies. You have proven to be clever enough to evade those who would try to catch you. Maybe it was of questionable wisdom to make so many enemies though? And are you sure all of those you have slain deserved their fate?"

Lycar

NobleSavage
2009-02-18, 02:52 PM
Reyhan

Catching on to the woman's unstated warning, Reyhan ***** he eyebrow and gives a discrete bob of his head in understanding.

"So, Ruka, how do nobles, chiefs, among your people interact? If one were, to say, challenge you, would you be able to take his land if you defeated him?" He sinks his sharp teeth into a leg of lamb. "And what of your neighbors?" The man continues, smacking his lips as he chews and speaks. "What would you do to someone who spoke down of your people?" He flashes a wolfish grin at Kreznez before continuing with Ruka, "Some say Davethra has gone soft, with the old, hard days behind them the nobles sit high on their servants backs. In Shavara," the grin widens. "The rulers were run out. Coming from a people who leads such a harsh lifestyle and having seen Davethra, would you say it is open to an enemy?"