Elmoore, Ch. 1 - Into Oakhurst
<h1 id="title">Elliquiy Role Playing Forums</h1>
		<h2 id="linktree">Play-By-Post: Light =&gt; Light: Human Small Groups =&gt; Topic started by: Chulanowa on 30-04-2017, 02:14:34</h2>
		<dl id="posts">
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Elmoore, Ch. 1 - Into Oakhurst</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Chulanowa</strong> on <strong>30-04-2017, 02:14:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center">(https://cdna.artstation.com/p/assets/images/images/001/092/624/large/klaus-pillon-netease-test-final-klauspillon.jpg?1443927777)</div><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The six of you have been travelling north along with a merchant caravan headed by Tenber Halfaxe, a peg-legged dwarf of little character but much gold. despite the rumors that led to Tenber hiring you, there have been no goblin attacks on the four wagons - much to the dwarf's recent griping. In fact it's been downright dull, maybe even a little frustrating. You've all spent more time helping fix broken spokes, calming horses spooked by squirrels darting on front of them, and other such mundane, un-adventuresome activities. (Thankfully no one has died of dysentery.)<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Oakhurst is a small farming community, sitting mostly on reclaimed land from the Troawth Sump, a marshy lowland leading to the nearby Jademere Lake, east of the Old Road. To the west is the Thornwood, a dense forest named for the copious number of locust trees found within. Oakhurst is the only outpost of civilization on this part of the trade route, a fact that has made the town more prosperous than you might think. Even so, the walls around the town are low and ill-repaired, and many of the buildings have thatch that look like it might give if a particularly large bird should perch upon it.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;It's a fairly miserable day when you arrive; the sky is gray and there's enough of a drizzle to make things cold and uncomfortable, but not enough that it washes out the odor of the mud under the wagon wheels. "At least it's keeping the mosquitos away!" noted one of the other drivers, even as his whip flicked a horsefly off the rump of an ass. <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;As your caravan slowly rolls through the town's main gate, a trio of men approach. Two of them are local militia from the look of them - brimmed metal helms, simple pikes, and leather cuirasses over everyday clothes. The third is dressed in white might pass as finery in a place like Oakhurst, in a well-stitched cotton doublet and high boosts. He seems in unusual good cheer, given the weather.<strong> "Good afternoon, travelers... ah! Mr. Halfaxe, I was not expecting you so early in the season!"</strong><br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<strong>"Afternoon, Mayor,"</strong> the dwarf returned, baring his teeth in what a hopeful person might conclude was a smile. He looked back, signalling the other wagons to settle themselves. <strong>"You lot might as well make yourselfs comfortable. Good Mayor Lardbum- "</strong> <em>Lumbard</em>, corrects the mayor indignantly, though Tenber seems to not notice, <strong>"Looks like he wants to do business. Usually takes a while."</strong><br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Well, as it so happens one of the buildings nearby - the sign says "The Old Boar" - seems to have some delightful fragrances coming out of it. The rest of the town seems to be doing its normal business, a couple of old ladies sharing gossip over the barrel of pickles on the general store's covered porch while one of their husbands whittles. More distant you can sound the sounds of a smith at work, and the streets are doitted with men and women looking for somewhere drier than here.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Elmoore, Ch. 1 - Into Oakhurst</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>RedPhoenix</strong> on <strong>30-04-2017, 03:51:41</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://i.imgur.com/TXHHteS.jpg)</div><strong>Kayanna Starfall (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=266718.msg13155833#msg13155833)</strong><br><br>Kayanna was finding it hard to be aloof and mysterious when she was shoving stuck wagons through mud, swatting at mosquitoes, or being reminded of what donkeys smell like on a regular basis. As the trek had worn on she had been less and less the starry eyed mystic and more and more the working class girl who just wanted to get the job done so she could have a drink. As the time had gone by her defenses had worn down and most of the party by this point likely recognized her as the neurotic warlock with delusions of grandeur that she really was. Still, it didn't hurt to remind everyone who she thought she was everyone once in awhile.<br><br>She grumbled, leaning on her staff as she tried to perch someplace less muddy than the surrounding mud, wondering what sort of miserable people would build a village where there used to be a swamp, when the dwarf told them to clear out for awhile. She opened her mouth to say - she forgot what, something smelled like it wasn't a drizzling wet muddy swamp and she was instantly distracted by it.<br><br>She brushed off her robes as best she could and announced with as much grace as she could muster. "Come friends, the stars tell me our future lies here this eve." And strode in the direction of The Old Bar, intent on ordering something with a high alcohol content and a passable flavor to wipe the taste and memory of the road away. <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Elmoore, Ch. 1 - Into Oakhurst</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>NightLux</strong> on <strong>30-04-2017, 20:35:19</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/9/96/HalfOrcMonk.jpg)</div><strong>Raz the Black (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=266718.msg13155529#msg13155529)</strong><br><br>Muddied, wet and tired each night, most might consider the trip to be miserable and exhausting.&nbsp; For Raz, it was a blast.&nbsp; As much as he might have wanted to test his mettle against goblins - and he <em>hated</em> goblins - it was honest work and one which resulted in an observable culmination.&nbsp; The teachings of those monks weren't entirely lost on him outside of those martial teachings.&nbsp; Wearing appropriate robes and avoiding distasteful symbols, such as the ram-head skull used to fasten the loose strips of fabric that kept him somewhat decent, were another story.&nbsp; The sensation of touch, whether it was sunshine or water droplets or even the splash of mud from a wagon sending that slush across his chest was something to be enjoyed.<br><br>Some of Raz's heritage might stand aside when greeting folk that had not learned he meant no threat, but he stood behind his employer, leaning on his glaive and standing straight.&nbsp; But when he was dismissed, the mud would not have slowed him down.&nbsp; Using the glaive as a walking stick he made his way inside the gate before turned to the others hired for the protection duty.&nbsp; "Stars or not stars," he started with a chuckle, keeping&nbsp; pace with Kayanna "Warmth of a fire and the buzz of drink is more than enough for me."&nbsp; Before he passed through the door, however, we gathered strands of his clothing and squeezed them out to avoid tracking in too much water, but then walked through with a bright smile on his face.&nbsp; "Drinks!" he called out to no one in particular, eyes scanning the room for space for he and his friends.&nbsp; "And bring another round with the first!"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Elmoore, Ch. 1 - Into Oakhurst</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>greenknight</strong> on <strong>30-04-2017, 21:33:59</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/c/c4/Gieron2.jpg)</div><strong>Geiron</strong> (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=266718.msg13155571#msg13155571)<br><br>It wasn’t Geiron’s first caravan, but it was the first that meant to go to a town like Oakhurst. As much he despised Exclesior!, at least he knew the only leaks come from the fools living above you spilling copious amounts gods know what. And fools are much more receptive to correction than the gods of weather. But in all, the trip was little different than any other he'd made, though maybe he'd used his axes a bit more often. He and half a dozen <strong>guards</strong>of the Red Company hired by Mr. Halfaxe were joined by scabs some of the other drivers brought along. In the balance, Geiron found them far more interesting and entertaining company than the bullyboys he'd come with.<br><br>At Halfaxe's dismissal (and before the sergeant could say otherwise) and crazy one's suggestion (don't mess with the crazy was a lesson Geiron received continually), Geiron joined his new companions on the most holy quest for fresh drink. "Capital idea, my drogies," he responded to their suggestions. Stomping his feet to knock loose the mud before they entered, he responded to Raz's order, "I like the way you think, man. Let us quaff <em>potions of stupidity</em> and burn the memory of our toils from our minds." Geiron, of course, had no intention of getting blotto, another lesson learned in the "great" city. Indulging in only a few libations was his standard fare, as was keeping his open for trouble.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Elmoore, Ch. 1 - Into Oakhurst</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Bibliophilia</strong> on <strong>30-04-2017, 22:37:21</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://68.media.tumblr.com/4dc1c50618b8ae79bb8e4806bf202d2f/tumblr_n5he5mLZKz1tx9cjuo1_500.png)</div><br><strong>Ixelshasi 'Ix'</strong> (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=266718.msg13155574#msg13155574)<br><hr><br>Ix most decidedly did <em>not</em> help push the wagons through the mud, or so much as set a single foot down out of the supply wagon she'd made her nest in while the ground was muddy.&nbsp; She crinkled her nose and flattened her ears a the very suggestion that she do so, until there was mention of a trip to town and the scent of food on the air.&nbsp; She made a low, miserable sound in her throat as she drew her waxed cloak over her, drawing the hood high and leaping nimbly from the rear of the wagon to land lightly in a patch of grass.<br><br>Somehow, she managed to hop-scotch her way after the others, nimbly moving from one non-muddy surface to the next, even jumping to walk along the top of a fence for a time, as it paralleled the path.&nbsp; She hissed a bit as the rain struck her face and dampened her fur, despite her best efforts to remain perfectly dry.&nbsp; It the darkness, her golden eyes seemed to glow amidst the mottled coloring on her face, their large, perfectly round shape narrowed to slits in her annoyance at the rain.<br><br>She heaved a sigh of relief when she stepped up behind the others into the tavern, and shed her cloak to gingerly place it on a hook by the door...or, barring that, the back of a chair.&nbsp; Underneath she wore a swath of indigo-dyed linen draped to somewhat protect the sensibilities of the common peasants by covering the 'naughty' bits, though it left the majority of her legs and arms bare.&nbsp; The fire drew her with a singular intent and she settled quite near it, turning to face it and stroke her fingers through the wet fur on her cheeks and muzzle, a low rumble starting deep in her chest.&nbsp; The purr infused her voice, giving the high, sweet tone a raspy gravel.&nbsp; "Something mulled, if you have it!&nbsp; And a bit of warm cream with cinnamon!"&nbsp; Her eyes drifted closed as she basked in the heat of the fire and used it to dry her damp fur.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Elmoore, Ch. 1 - Into Oakhurst</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>AribethAmkiir</strong> on <strong>01-05-2017, 10:05:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://i1087.photobucket.com/albums/j480/Erion2451/Class_ElfCleric_zpsxxoglzod.png)</div><span style="font-size: 13pt;" class="bbc_size">Silaqui Siannodel (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=266718.msg13167949#msg13167949)</span><br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spells</div><div class="spoiler_body">Spells/day: Lv 1: 2<br><br>Lv 0: Guidance, Thaumaturgy, Sacred Flame<br>Lv 1: Bless, Cure Wounds, Guiding Bolt, Healing Word, Sanctuary, Divine Favor, Shield of Faith</div></div><hr><br>Silaqui wasn't sure why she had traveled north with the peg-legged dwarf's caravan, or even, why she had accepted a position as a guard.&nbsp; What she did know, though, was that the dreams had stopped once she had began the journey north, or more accurately, they had stopped for a time.&nbsp; They had returned the last few evenings, during her trance, and had filled her mind with images of places she'd yet to see.<br><br>The landmarks she'd seen, while lending her aid to a spooked horse or broken axle, brought a smile to her face, despite the rain and mud.&nbsp; Rain and mud, after all, dried and washed away, was no more irritating than a fly and lasted about as long.&nbsp; The cold, however, wasn't as easy to ignore and made it slightly more miserable.<br><br>She pulled the hood of her cloak over her head, and tucked her hair inside, before she disembarked from the wagon she'd rode in.&nbsp; An amused smile touched her lips as she gained her first sight of Oakhurst.&nbsp; It would be interesting to see where this all led, and for the first time in many years, she was eager to see what came next.<br><br>Green eyes noted her "companions", a word she used loosely as she trusted none of them.&nbsp; They were still more interesting than the drivers and laborers and even the old peg-legged dwarf.&nbsp; So, she followed them, and her own sense of smell, to the inn.&nbsp; When the others ordered booze, Silaqui inquired about a warm bath and whether or not she could get her azure robes washed clean of the mud.&nbsp; A hot meal was also foremost in her thoughts, and she was willing to delay the bath in order to fill her belly.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Elmoore, Ch. 1 - Into Oakhurst</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Countdown0</strong> on <strong>01-05-2017, 13:04:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://i.imgur.com/DTnI7Zwm.jpg)</div><span style="font-size: 18pt;" class="bbc_size">Therengrath (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=266718.msg13156493#msg13156493)</span><br><br>Therengrath followed along with the others into the tavern, and upon entering he looked around for a boar, wondering if the tavern had been named specifically for an elderly swine, or if it was simply a name picked by the barkeep or some other noteworthy figurehead of the establishment. He wasn't sure about the sheer volume of drink that the two half-orcs seemed prepared to imbibe , but nor was he about to recommended they do any different. He could probably use a drink as well, given the oppressive boredom of their travel. Normally, having time to worry about nothing and simply think would have been great for the young wizard, but because they had to keep moving, he didn't really get a chance to do anything productive, like read and re-read - for the thousandth time at least - his spellbook. Of course, when the wagon needed pushing, Therengrath would have tried to help, but truth be told, he would more likely be getting in the way than helping push it. Such physical labours were most certainly not his speciality. He could march all day if need be, but moving heavy things was certainly a task better suited to someone... larger.<br><br>His interest did lie more in getting something to eat other than the dried, flavourless rations that he had been sustaining himself with for the journey to this point, and he did ask if a meal could be had. Alcohol was all well and good, but he needed food much more. "I'm just happy to get out of the rain, honestly," Therengrath said, joining the bulk of the group and taking a seat. He tried to sit so that he wasn't in anyone's way - particularly Raz's way, as the half-orc seemed rather excited about the prospect of a drink, and Therengrath didn't much want to be too close if a fight were to break out. While he didn't specifically expect Raz to start a fight, or even to get into one, Therengrath wasn't completely sheltered to how things would go in taverns. Some alcohol, a few large men who were bored and had nothing better, and a fight could spark up at any time. The wizard was more the type to simply avoid such things. "So... did Tenber <em>really</em> call the mayor Lardbum?" Therengrath asked, raising an eyebrow slightly. "Or am I just hearing things?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Elmoore, Ch. 1 - Into Oakhurst</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>RedPhoenix</strong> on <strong>02-05-2017, 01:05:35</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://i.imgur.com/TXHHteS.jpg)</div><strong>Kayanna Starfall (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=266718.msg13155833#msg13155833)</strong><br><br>Kayanna had come to enjoy counting on her half-orc companions to always join her in making a line for the nearest drink after the day's work was done. As she stepped inside she pulled the hood back from her face and shook out her long, silver hair. It wasn't done <em>just</em> to draw attention as she made an entrance but it never hurt.&nbsp; She raised her mug when it arrived, clinked it up against any who would join her, and took a long, long, series of gulps of the drink, looking decidedly not like a fragile mystic as she imbibed, and more like a woman who could hold her own drinking with orcbloods. <br><br>Her eyes wandered to where Ix's head lay. Her hand started creeping towards it. The urge to pet it and skrtich a bit behind the ears was overwhelming. No. No. Control yourself. Kayanna pulled her hand back and took another drink. <br><br>"So." She said, putting the mug down. "Town built in a swamp. Raining. Mayor named Lardbum." She nodded at&nbsp; Therengrath, answering his question. "This is staring off great isn't it?" 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Elmoore, Ch. 1 - Into Oakhurst</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>NightLux</strong> on <strong>02-05-2017, 01:16:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/9/96/HalfOrcMonk.jpg)</div><strong>Raz the Black (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=266718.msg13155529#msg13155529)</strong><br><br>Raz turned his head with Siloqui mentioned the bath.&nbsp; "The mud isn't going to hurt you, miss.&nbsp; Have a drink with us," he grinned, tapping her with his shoulder as they walked in, his smile showing more teeth and the large canines than most would like.&nbsp; He didn't comment on his brethren's words; his teachers had used high diction and allegory at times in teaching him but he found that direct and to the point worked best.&nbsp; "Worst case," he returned his attention to the redheaded elf, "I can pour water over your head.&nbsp; That'd do the trick, right?"&nbsp; He grinned like a fool as he sat down, turning his attention to the woman who brought the drinks.<br><br>He paused for a moment, face turning calm and eyes closing, but just for a moment as he said his due, before smiling again.&nbsp; "Coin is coin," he replied to Kayanna, taking a long draw of his drink, "Although I do like this place.&nbsp; Maybe not the stuffy, fat mayor, but what's wrong with a town in a swamp?"&nbsp; To Raz, this was as good of a place as any.&nbsp; Home was what he would make of it, if he finally decided to settle in a home.&nbsp; For now, it was adventure and testing himself.&nbsp; "Could be worse, you know.&nbsp; Could be gnomes."&nbsp; He didn't have to say goblins.&nbsp; Nothing was worse than goblins.&nbsp; At least in "pleasant company".&nbsp; In battle, there was a lot worse.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Elmoore, Ch. 1 - Into Oakhurst</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Countdown0</strong> on <strong>02-05-2017, 07:39:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://i.imgur.com/DTnI7Zwm.jpg)</div><span style="font-size: 18pt;" class="bbc_size">Therengrath (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=266718.msg13156493#msg13156493)</span><br><br>Therengrath clicked his drink against Kayanna's - and anyone else's if they allowed it - and then began to drink, albeit slowly, as he wasn't a prolific drinker. "Swamps mean lots of cleaning to do, and like we saw on our way here, wagon wheels and the like can get stuck, especially on days like this," the wizard answered when Raz asked what was wrong with a town in the swamp. "Or maybe a horse could slip in the mud and break its leg," he added, a little sad at that prospect. "Besides, gnomes aren't that bad. And I've heard that there's even some goblins in the swamp who occasionally do business with the town. You know, a bit of trading and the like. Hopefully the keep it to business and don't start trying to all kill each other," Therengrath added, rather oblivious to Raz's hatred of goblins.<br><br>"He's right though, it could be worse," the wizard conceded. "The roads could be just completely flooded," he offered as an example.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Elmoore, Ch. 1 - Into Oakhurst</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>AribethAmkiir</strong> on <strong>02-05-2017, 08:10:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://i1087.photobucket.com/albums/j480/Erion2451/Class_ElfCleric_zpsxxoglzod.png)</div><span style="font-size: 13pt;" class="bbc_size">Silaqui Siannodel (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=266718.msg13167949#msg13167949)</span><br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spells</div><div class="spoiler_body">Spells/day: Lv 1: 2<br><br>Lv 0: Guidance, Thaumaturgy, Sacred Flame<br>Lv 1: Bless, Cure Wounds, Guiding Bolt, Healing Word, Sanctuary, Divine Favor, Shield of Faith</div></div><hr><br>She smirked at the Orc.&nbsp; Half-Orc, she had to remind herself.&nbsp; Raz's markings and stature made it difficult to remember that he was as different to his kin as Kayanna was to her.&nbsp; His "tap" was enough to nearly make her lose her balance; though, she quickly sprang back, like a sapling defiant against the wind.<br><br><strong>"It was more the welcoming embrace of civilization I longed for, and the fact that steaming hot water helped chase away bitter cold in a more pleasant manner than lukewarm ale.&nbsp; Something your pitcher of water would undoubtedly fail to accomplish,"</strong> she said with a hint of a smile.<br><br>Nonetheless, and despite her words, she joined the motley group at the table and rose her glass with the rest.&nbsp; She carefully tasted the ale, much to her regret, and refrained from downing it in a hurry.&nbsp; If it was worth drinking than it was worth savoring.&nbsp; This, however, didn't qualify as either, in her opion.&nbsp; She hoped, at least, that the food was better.&nbsp; Something definitely smelled good, and she doubted it was the wash.<br><br>Her green eyes regarded the wizard for a moment.&nbsp; He seemed, for all accounts, to be a typical human.&nbsp; Amused at another's misfortune, and too quick to write off a place he was unfamiliar with based on a limited and skewed perception.<br><br><strong>"True, the swamp is likely a difficult place to live, but those who call this home are likely hardier than your average villager.&nbsp; And despite their daily hardships, I would presume that they likely take much pride in their home, as most folk are keen to do,"</strong> she said quietly to the man, but loud enough for the rest at the table to hear.&nbsp; <strong>"Besides, mud, mosquitoes, and flooded roads can be enough of a deterrent to keep unwanted parties away, and a swamp, like a forest or jungle, offers many secrets only the locals privy knowledge of."</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Elmoore, Ch. 1 - Into Oakhurst</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Bibliophilia</strong> on <strong>03-05-2017, 03:20:39</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://68.media.tumblr.com/4dc1c50618b8ae79bb8e4806bf202d2f/tumblr_n5he5mLZKz1tx9cjuo1_500.png)</div><br><strong>Ixelshasi 'Ix'</strong> (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=266718.msg13155574#msg13155574)<br><hr><br>Her ears flicked in irritation and she hissed softly, glancing over her shoulder at the rest of them.&nbsp; "I prefer an arid climate.&nbsp; Everything here smells of mildew and rot."&nbsp; Her whiskers twitched and she turned from the fire, allowing it to warm her back as she reached for the thick, clay mug of mulled wine and the matching mug of hot, spiced cream.&nbsp; Her fingers wrapped around the wine and she let her eyes fall half-closed as she absorbed the heat through the dark skin on her palms.<br><br>"I begin to question if the coin I've made on this trip has been sufficient to make up for the inconveniences and boredom."&nbsp; She sipped her wine, tail swaying behind her with an unconscious rhythm, languidly dancing back and forth, as if it had a mind of its own.&nbsp; Her tongue flicked over her lips to lick away any possible residue from the wine, and she looked to the tavern girl who'd brought their drinks, slowly tilting her head and smiling at her.<br><br>"Would you be so kind as to fetch me a bowl of whatever that smell is?&nbsp; Mutton stew?"&nbsp; She sniffed the air delicately and furrowed her brow.&nbsp; "Something like that.&nbsp; It's hard to parse from the rain and smell of sweaty men."&nbsp; She glanced at their half-orc companions with a slightly teasing smirk and traded her wine to sip her cream, alternating sips from each.&nbsp; The flavors of both, the relative comfort of being indoors, and the warmth of the fire served to lift her mood and kept her purring quietly.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Elmoore, Ch. 1 - Into Oakhurst</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>greenknight</strong> on <strong>04-05-2017, 21:35:39</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/c/c4/Gieron2.jpg)</div><strong>Geiron</strong> (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=266718.msg13155571#msg13155571)<hr><br>Geiron raised his mug with the rest when the wench brought them. After taking a draw, he asked, <strong>“It’s still early, what else shall we endeavor? What mischief to seek?”</strong> He scanned the room, just to be sure what kind of crowd seemed to be present in the afternoon. <strong>“There’s sure to be some trouble to get into,”</strong> he adds, sardonic tones dripping from his words.<strong><br><br>“Yes, don’t knock the gnomes, my friend,” </strong>Geiron pointed his mug to Raz after a downing some of its contents. <strong>“What even T might not know, well, if you find yourself in Excelsior!, remind me to show you Kizzifig’s Emporium.” </strong>He made a show of looking Therengrath over. <strong>“You know what, I’m <em>sure </em>he knows all about Kizzi’s,”</strong> he added with a grin concealed by the mug reaching his mouth. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Elmoore, Ch. 1 - Into Oakhurst</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Chulanowa</strong> on <strong>05-05-2017, 06:38:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://orig15.deviantart.net/e698/f/2011/048/7/d/7d432764399c8d1359ee5326fdac1537-d39rayp.jpg)</div>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;In great contrast to the chill mire outside, the Old Boar tavern is warm, even welcoming on the inside. The place is obviously old, the floorboards worn to a sanded smoothness by decades of feet, the bench tables carves with initials and little bits of graffiti that the proprietor seems to have given up on removing. A fire burns in the large hearth, helping a few oil lamps brighten up the place. The walls are lined with paintings and small trophy cases displaying knickknacks, memorabilia, and the like. over the hearth is a massive stuffed boar's head, broad enough that Raz could recline on it with room to spare, with tusks like scimitars.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;And amid it all are people; it's lunch time, and fragrant mutton stew, crusty still-warm bread, and beer stout enough you might need a spoon are being served to the chattering, gossiping patrons by a trip of halfling girls. Behind the bar two older halflings - one would guess the parents and proprietors, are working their their best to keep everything going. The male of the two, head set with ginger curls around a bald spot sees the new entrants. <strong>"Ahoy! Welcome to t' the Aul Boar. me gells'll be widdyae inna spot!"</strong> The man's accent is thick and From Far Away, but you still get what he's saying.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Finding a spot is easy enough; despite the bustle, there's only so many townsfolk to go around, and it's a big place with long tables. The pretty, if short girls bring the crew what they asked for... more or less. Mutton Stew and bread for any who will accept it, beer for those who ask, and a cup of cream - no cinnamon, sorry - for the Tabaxi - who is at the moment getting a few suspicious stares from other patrons. In fact the group seems to be of interest to most of the patrons, though no one seems inclined to pester them just yet. Oakhurst isn't quite so far-flung that their sort draws too much attention.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At Terengrath's mention of the goblins though, one man, with the burly shoulders and rough hands of a ploughman turns and spits on the sawdust-covered floor. This earns him solid smack on the shoulder from one of the barmaids. which he flinches from as if dealt a mighty blow. <strong>"Sorry little miss."</strong> he grins at her, before turning to Terengrath. <strong>"Them little robbers? I'd choke 'em myself, if I could. Pelor alone knows what the hell they do with the gold."</strong> he sops his bread into his stew, scarfing it down with the relish and manners one might expect. <strong>"Mark my words, if I ever catch one of them near teh seedlings, I'll swing him on a rope myself!"</strong> The sentiment earns a few nods from other locals.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Elmoore, Ch. 1 - Into Oakhurst</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>RedPhoenix</strong> on <strong>05-05-2017, 23:42:22</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://i.imgur.com/TXHHteS.jpg)</div><strong>Kayanna Starfall (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=266718.msg13155833#msg13155833)</strong><br><br>Kayanna had never heard a halfling From Far Away speak and she had to squint at his words before she realized he was saying girls. She happily ordered mutton stew and beer, finding it as delicious as mutton stew and beer always is at the end of several days of hard work. <br><br>The local's reaction to talk of goblins once again makes her cock her head as she mentally deciphers what he's going on about. "Seedlings?" She muttered to herself. "Gold." She concluded was the important part of what was said. She leaned back in her chair and made eye contact with the man.<br><br>"Got a lot of goblins hanging around your seedlings do you?" She called out to him. She clearly didn't know what the meant, but wanted to get him talking about where a bunch of gold might be waiting. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Elmoore, Ch. 1 - Into Oakhurst</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>NightLux</strong> on <strong>08-05-2017, 17:56:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/9/96/HalfOrcMonk.jpg)</div><strong>Raz the Black (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=266718.msg13155529#msg13155529)</strong><br><br>When Raz realized some of the eyes lingered on Ix a bit too long, he took a step closer to her and returned their stares one by one - not threatening, but also not passive.&nbsp; The message as clear - leering eyes would not be appreciated.&nbsp; Besides, the halfling girls would be more their speed even if they were probably outside their respective realms of possibility.&nbsp; He doubted anyone here could handle Ix or any of the fairer portion of their group.&nbsp; At least not the way that they'd deserve.<br><br>The pretty halfling girls got a the attention from Raz when they brought the food, offering to help them reach where they might need on the table, a wink or two given in the otherwise meaningless conversation with his big grin showing he was more not-orc in some situations than orc.&nbsp; Pretty girls, beer and food being three of the biggest.&nbsp; And yet, rather than use a spoon, Raz just picked up the bowl and started slurping the broth and biting at anything that wouldn't slurp into his mouth.&nbsp; Putting it down, he leaned down toward his coverings to wipe his mouth before taking a swig of his beer as the other man spoke.&nbsp; Kayanna took the more indirect path and Raz didn't think of any better way, so the beer got the attention of his lips and eyes, his ears on the man.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Elmoore, Ch. 1 - Into Oakhurst</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Bibliophilia</strong> on <strong>09-05-2017, 08:34:41</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://68.media.tumblr.com/4dc1c50618b8ae79bb8e4806bf202d2f/tumblr_n5he5mLZKz1tx9cjuo1_500.png)</div><br><strong>Ixelshasi 'Ix'</strong> (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=266718.msg13155574#msg13155574)<br><hr><br>She didn't seem to notice the looks from the other patrons, either accustomed to them or too focused on making herself as comfortable as possible to pay them any mind.&nbsp; Likely it was a bit of both.&nbsp; Even so, she is paying enough attention to reach out and lightly pat the half-orc acting as her protector on the arm, tilting her head back and to the side to bear her pointed teeth at him in a grin.&nbsp; "Fret not, Raz.&nbsp; Focus on your drink, food and the warmth in the air, which the fire dries out nicely.&nbsp; None of us is any danger here."<br><br>She licked her muzzle a touch and set her drinks down to draw a bowl of the fragrant stew closer to her.&nbsp; Despite the decidedly animalistic mannerisms she had, she was perfectly civilized when it came to eating.&nbsp; Certainly more dainty and tidy than their large companion.&nbsp; She lifted her spoon and took a small bite of her stew, her loud rowl of delight her method of complimenting the chef.&nbsp; Listening to the man speak of goblins, she took delicate bites of stew and fussily cleaned her mouth with her napkin every few bites.&nbsp; Her shining, keen, golden eyes moved between those at her table and the locals, ears perked to catch every word and nuance of tone.<br><br>"Is the word seedling your colloquial term for your offspring?&nbsp; Or do you literally mean some sort of young plant?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Elmoore, Ch. 1 - Into Oakhurst</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Countdown0</strong> on <strong>10-05-2017, 10:37:56</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://i.imgur.com/DTnI7Zwm.jpg)</div><span style="font-size: 18pt;" class="bbc_size">Therengrath (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=266718.msg13156493#msg13156493)</span><br><br>The young wizard looked to the elf, Silaui, after the stranger and fellow tavern patron complained about the goblins. "Well, it seems like at least one of the people living here may have some doubts about the ability of living in a swamp to keep away unwanted parties," Therengrath said. "But I think you misunderstand me. Raz asked what was wrong with a swamp. I am simply offering some options that one may wish to complain of," he said. Then he looked to Geiron, opening his mouth to speak, though hesitating slightly. Had the half-orc just called him 'T'? That wasn't a nickname he'd been given before. "Actually, I've never heard of Kizzifig's Emporium. I don't tend to spend much time in... stores of any kind anymore," he finished, looking down slightly and then beginning to slowly eat the stew, slightly saddened. It had been a long time since Therengrath had seen his family. Having been born the son of merchants, he had originally grown accustomed to being in a store, or a market stall, all day. It was something that he admittedly did miss a little.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Elmoore, Ch. 1 - Into Oakhurst</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Chulanowa</strong> on <strong>10-05-2017, 20:03:20</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Raz would notice that the looks Ix was getting were not lecherous. They were distrustful. Which is admittedly a little odd, when they're not staring at one of the orciest half orcs to ever have a dead goat for a belt buckle. when it appears the catwoman isn't robbing people or stealing children or curdling milk - whatever these yokels think Tabaxi might do - they go back to their own conversations. The innkeeper seems to keep his eye on the group as a whole, though<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<strong>"What?"</strong> The ploughman gave Ix a genuinely confused look.<strong> "Why would... What, no. Seedlings. little plants. Apples, in this case."</strong> He wraps a bit of cheese and some pickled onion up in a bit of bread, popping it into his mouth, speaking through it. <strong>"The li'l bug'ers stole our apple trees."</strong> He swallows, washing it down with some beer. <strong>"Every time we get that apple's seeds sprouting up right, the creeps snatch them. Trying to keep their monp... mun. Trying to keep their <em>money</em>,"</strong> he save, making his limited vocabulary seem a mild stutter. <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<strong>"Ay you don't know it was them, Tev,"</strong> one of his dining companions notes. <strong>"I heard something about kobolds, too. hell, it coulda just been deer."</strong> At which Tev, the ploughman snorts. <strong>"Well, they din't just <em>walk</em> off!"</strong> The other speaker, a blonde-bearded man in his 40's shakes his head, looking to the travelers. <strong>"You lot going to be setting up in town? Been a while since we had honest merchants through here."</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Elmoore, Ch. 1 - Into Oakhurst</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Bibliophilia</strong> on <strong>10-05-2017, 21:28:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://68.media.tumblr.com/4dc1c50618b8ae79bb8e4806bf202d2f/tumblr_n5he5mLZKz1tx9cjuo1_500.png)</div><br><strong>Ixelshasi 'Ix'</strong> (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=266718.msg13155574#msg13155574)<br><hr><br>She cocked her head at the ploughman and his companion, lifting her cup to sip her cream with a mysterious, yet thoroughly amused, smile.&nbsp; "I see.&nbsp; They might well have walked off on their own, you know.&nbsp; I've seen much stranger things in my travels than apple seedlings that uproot themselves and sneak away to find more comfortable or richer soil.&nbsp; Have none of you thought to place a guard on the seedlings, alternating shifts so that someone always has an eye on them?&nbsp; Perhaps the watcher would be rewarded with the wonderous sight of baby apple trees going for a little stroll."<br><br>Her tone was light, and while it would be clear to some that she was poking a bit of fun at the provincial people, it didn't seem to be malicious.&nbsp; Setting her cream aside, and stroking her fingers through her whiskers delicately, the second man's question actually made her rowling laughter bubble up through her lips.&nbsp; "What about us makes you believe we are merchants?" Or honest, for that matter, though she kept <em>that</em> thought to herself.&nbsp; "Hmm..."&nbsp; She looked to Raz and Gieron, eyes sparkling vividly.&nbsp; "What would the two of you sell, if you were merchants?&nbsp; I don't imagine there's much of a customer base for angry glowers and ass-beatings."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Elmoore, Ch. 1 - Into Oakhurst</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>AribethAmkiir</strong> on <strong>11-05-2017, 00:11:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://i1087.photobucket.com/albums/j480/Erion2451/Class_ElfCleric_zpsxxoglzod.png)</div><span style="font-size: 13pt;" class="bbc_size">Silaqui Siannodel (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=266718.msg13167949#msg13167949)</span><br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spells</div><div class="spoiler_body">Spells/day: Lv 1: 2<br><br>Lv 0: Guidance, Thaumaturgy, Sacred Flame<br>Lv 1: Bless, Cure Wounds, Guiding Bolt, Healing Word, Sanctuary, Divine Favor, Shield of Faith</div></div><hr><br>Silaqui pushed her ale aside and focused on the mutton.&nbsp; She used the spoon provided and the manners polished from a century of life.&nbsp; The Raz's slurping or Geiron's need to rush off to do something didn't bother her.&nbsp; They were short-lived, after all, and their desire to fill every minute with something was enviable, though, bitter-sweet.<br><br>She gave a non-committal shrug to the wizard.&nbsp; She had seen more humans in the last few years than the entire previous century.&nbsp; It seemed no two were alike, but it did appear that they weren't happy unless they were thumbing their nose at someone, and complaining.&nbsp; Oh, how they could complain.&nbsp; There was either too much rain or not enough.&nbsp; It was "too hot" or "too cold".&nbsp; Few seldom seemed content with what they had, and perhaps that was why they were able to do as much as they did in their handful of decades.<br><br>She turned her attention to the halflings, and wondered if one of their ancestors had defeated the boar hung upon the wall, or if their father had bought the head.&nbsp; From her seat, amidst the rest, she studied the curios, memorabilia, nick-knacks, and paintings and tried to piece together the history of the tavern, if not the hamlet, from what was displayed.<br><br>As for the conversation with the villager's, the Tabaxi had asked the more relevant question, and the answer had been apples.&nbsp; Silaqui had no love for goblins, but she didn't hear the call to arms over apples and gold.&nbsp; As another farmer suggested, there was no proof that it was goblins.&nbsp; Now, if they had hurt someone, that would've been a different story.&nbsp; However, as more villagers spoke, more things began to seem odd.&nbsp; Deer, for instance, seldom ate the entire tree.&nbsp; Even in lean times, there would be something left; scat and footprints, at the very least.&nbsp; Considering the rains, and that this was, in fact, a swamp, even kobolds and goblins would've likely left prints behind.<br><br><strong>"Are there no prints in the ground, around where you planted your trees, to suggest a culprit?"</strong> she casually asked of the two villagers.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Elmoore, Ch. 1 - Into Oakhurst</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>RedPhoenix</strong> on <strong>12-05-2017, 03:22:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://i.imgur.com/TXHHteS.jpg)</div><strong>Kayanna Starfall (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=266718.msg13155833#msg13155833)</strong><br><br>Kayanna could feel the annoyance growing as the men spoke. She knew where this was going to go. Some place it always went with her. The working man was in trouble. The corrupt and stupid authorities would do nothing about it. It was time for - she tried to stifle the thought. Here? With all the frogs and the mud? Here? Maybe the next town over was in need of saving from large fluffy rabbits or beautiful unicorns or....goddammit.<br><br>She took a deep breath. "So." She said. "Need a hand keeping your apples safe from goblins do you?" <br><br>She always did this. For someone who out on such an act of nonchalance and detached mysterious apathy she sure did seem to be quick to volunteer to help those who needed it. <br><br>She glanced at the half-orcs, considering Ix's comment. "Depends what type of ass beating really." She muttered under her breath, acting like she hadn't just said that as she waited for the answer to her question. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Elmoore, Ch. 1 - Into Oakhurst</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>greenknight</strong> on <strong>13-05-2017, 00:33:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				&nbsp;<div class="floatleft">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/c/c4/Gieron2.jpg)</div><strong>Geiron</strong> (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=266718.msg13155571#msg13155571)<br><hr><strong>"Look, Kitty, there's nothing wrong with glowers and ass-beatings," </strong>Geiron half-defended himself with a toothy grin, pointing with the paw holding his mug at Ix. At Kayanna's comment, he turned to her and raised an eyebrow as if to ask, "You've been to Kizzie's, too?"<br><br>But he didn't and turned to the bickering locals, instead. <strong>"So, youse need watchin's on youse baby trees, wot? How much?"</strong> His tone was far more guttural than he'd shown them on this trip. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Elmoore, Ch. 1 - Into Oakhurst</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>RedPhoenix</strong> on <strong>13-05-2017, 21:19:22</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://i.imgur.com/TXHHteS.jpg)</div><strong>Kayanna Starfall (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=266718.msg13155833#msg13155833)</strong><br><br>Kayanna simply returned Gieron's look with a shrug as if to say 'hey, a girl's got needs' before she turned back to the locals to see what they had to say. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Elmoore, Ch. 1 - Into Oakhurst</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>NightLux</strong> on <strong>15-05-2017, 19:00:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/9/96/HalfOrcMonk.jpg)</div><strong>Raz the Black (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=266718.msg13155529#msg13155529)</strong><br><br>Raz laughed boisterously when Ix asked what he'd sell, "Some people would pay well for a good ass-beating," he answered for both himself and Kayanna, "Besides, there are <em>bigger</em> assets that might be in more demand.&nbsp; Maybe as a second service? Raz continued, leaning closer to Ix and whispering, hoping to figure out how to tell if a tabaxi were to blush, "First hit is always free... either of your choice, Ix."&nbsp; But the larger matter at hand was a possible job and apples.&nbsp; Raz did like apples.<br><br>"Tev, is it?" he asked, turning his mug upside down so the maid would know it was empty and to refill it.&nbsp; "I'll make you a deal.&nbsp; You see that we're satisfactorily compensated and we'll deal with your walking tree problem, whatever the cause."&nbsp; There was something unique about the way he used the word we and its derivatives, a subtle hint that it could be as narrow as the royal we and just include him, or as expansive as it might be, if others wanted to join.&nbsp; "And maybe this problem will go away permanently.&nbsp; I could use a good stroll.&nbsp; So," he paused, leaning onto the table toward the man, his face curled into a smile that was either intimidating or friendly - it was difficult to be sure, "What could you offer that would satisfy my friends and I here?"&nbsp; Money was good, but he'd take other services in exchange.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Elmoore, Ch. 1 - Into Oakhurst</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Chulanowa</strong> on <strong>22-05-2017, 02:57:54</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<strong>"Well, you came in with a merchant caravan, din't ye?"</strong> the man answers the cat-woman, jerking his thumb towards the door they had entered in, just as their dwarven caravan master was coming in, two of Gerion's companions in tow. They looked less than happy. The man didn't really seem to notice that trio, though, instead gaping at Gerion and Raz. <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The first speaker, Tev, laughed and slapped the table. <strong>"Mercenaries, then! If you're that hard-up for work, me an' Rolf here ain't who you want to talk to."</strong> he ripped off a piece of dark bread, stuffing it into his mouth. <strong>"Only a couple coppers in our pockets, ain't that right? I guess-"</strong> he interrupts himself with a swig of beer <strong>"- if you really want coin you could talk to Mayor Lardbum."</strong> Apparently this is a common title for the man. <strong>"Or talk to Gellie, she runs the orchard? She's poor as the rest of us anyway, though."</strong><br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The other man - Rolf - pointed into the air with his finger. <strong>"And it's not like they're <em>normal</em> apple trees, anyway. Ain't like we have a problem with those little gremlins making off with some fruit."</strong> He quaffs his beer as well. <strong>"We grow 'em from the seeds of the apple the little shits sell us. hell, we barely got the gold to buy <em>that</em>, tell you the..."</strong><br>&nbsp;<br><div class="floatleft">(https://www.medieval-shop.co.uk/3530-thickbox_default/pirate-leather-bag-with-8-spanish-coins.jpg)</div>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Rolf quiets hismelf as Tenber Halfaxe and the other two mercenaries approach the table.<strong> "That fucking mayor and his <em>tariffs</em>,"</strong> the dwarf sneers, literally making air quotes with his fingers. <strong>"Road's been clear this far north, and hte mayor says he ain't heard piss about anything north of this muddy little hole full of sheep-shit."</strong> Tucking his hands into his vest, he produces a few pouches of rough canvas cloth, tossing them onto the table with the heavy and light clink of coin within. <strong>"So. I no longer require so many guards - and couldn't afford to pay ye fer the whole way <em>anyway</em>."</strong><br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;There's a purse for everyone at the table - except Gerion. One of his companions offers out a fist, with several straws clasped in it. <strong>"He's keeping five of us and leaving three,"</strong> the man - Alsbarn by name - explains. <strong>"We decided drawing lots was the best way to decide who among us gets the short."</strong> The man clearly isn't happy about it, but business is business. <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<strong>"'Course, if you want to <em>buy a ride</em> northward..."</strong> the miserly dwarf offers, eyeballing the coin pouches he just tossed out...<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">OOC</div><div class="spoiler_body"> Sorry for the long delay, getting my other games up and handing RL has kinda left this one in the lurch this week. Should be good now!<br><br>Each of you has a purse containing 15 gold pieces, 5 silver, and 10 copper now. Except Ixelshasi, who has a purse containing 9 gold, 2 silver, and 12 copper. This is, as you might understand, rather less than your characters agreed to before taking this particular job.<br><br>And sorry to dispel any tension, but <em>of course</em> Gerion gets the short straw (and with it, the same amount of pay.) True to what they said, two other members of the mercenary group are similarly stranded, as are two or three other members of the caravan.<br><br>In short, this sucks. What do you do now?</div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Elmoore, Ch. 1 - Into Oakhurst</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Bibliophilia</strong> on <strong>22-05-2017, 03:16:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://68.media.tumblr.com/4dc1c50618b8ae79bb8e4806bf202d2f/tumblr_n5he5mLZKz1tx9cjuo1_500.png)</div><br><strong>Ixelshasi 'Ix'</strong> (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=266718.msg13155574#msg13155574)<br><hr><br>Raz's words brought a wry grin to her lips and she lifted her hand to gently pat his cheek, murmuring back to him.&nbsp; "I never pay for mating, Raz, except in dazzling memories so beautiful that I leave my lovers ruined for anyone else.&nbsp; And <em>I</em> dole out the ass-beatings in those scenarios.&nbsp; Nothing prettier than the sounds a man makes when he's bent over and having his ass reddened."&nbsp; She winked and then polished off her wine with a final sip, tongue neatly licking her lips clean.<br><br>She listened with little surprise to the villagers and their employer...right up until her keen ears picked up the noticeable disparity in the sound her bag of coin made in comparison to the others.&nbsp; Eyeing the bags briefly to visually confirm her suspicions, a slight twitch went through her whiskers, her ears flattened and her tail began to flick slightly, but sharply, behind her.&nbsp; Her gaze rose to settle on Tenber, and she picked up her bag in her thumb and index finger, holding it as if it were something foul and unclean.<br><br>"I believe you've left a bit out of mine, dwarf.&nbsp; I'm certain it was a mere over-sight and not outright, blatant, ignorant prejudice against me as a Tabaxi.&nbsp; Correct?" 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Elmoore, Ch. 1 - Into Oakhurst</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>RedPhoenix</strong> on <strong>22-05-2017, 05:06:02</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://i.imgur.com/TXHHteS.jpg)</div><strong>Kayanna Starfall (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=266718.msg13155833#msg13155833)</strong><br><br>Kayanna's amused mood darkened considerably at the cheap dwarf's announcement. At first she thought he simply wasn't paying Gieron at all, which would have made her furious, but when she realized he was being stranded with them that made her only a different sort of angry.<br><br>She didn't say anything at first, just glared at the dwarf as she tried to determine how full of shit he was.<br><br><em>I'm going to try to roll Insight to see if this dwarf is lying about not being able to pay us...<br><br>Roll Result: Kayanna rolled: 1d20, adding 1 to the total<br>Comment: Insight<br>Result: 12, <br>Total: 13</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Elmoore, Ch. 1 - Into Oakhurst</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Countdown0</strong> on <strong>22-05-2017, 06:02:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://i.imgur.com/DTnI7Zwm.jpg)</div><span style="font-size: 18pt;" class="bbc_size">Therengrath (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=266718.msg13156493#msg13156493)</span><br><br>When the dwarf handed out the money, Therengrath simply took the pouch and stowed it away in his pack, which he then returned to the floor between his feet. But then when Ixelshasi pointed out that her pouch was lacking in some of the promised payment, the wizard stopped and pulled his own pouch back out of his pack, opening it up and counting out the coins. Therengrath looked to the dwarf then, raising an eyebrow at Tenber and waiting to see if he had any answers for Ix, or anything to say in regards to leaving some of Gerion's companions behind and not giving Gerion his pay. Specifically, if any of these things didn't sound like total troll shit. He considered asking Rolf about the not so 'normal' apples, having heard some rumors about them, but decided that it could wait for a different time. "Or maybe the mayor took some of your pay," he suggested with a sarcastic tone to Ix, though still looking at the dwarf.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Elmoore, Ch. 1 - Into Oakhurst</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>AribethAmkiir</strong> on <strong>23-05-2017, 09:45:09</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://i1087.photobucket.com/albums/j480/Erion2451/Class_ElfCleric_zpsxxoglzod.png)</div><span style="font-size: 13pt;" class="bbc_size">Silaqui Siannodel (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=266718.msg13167949#msg13167949)</span><br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spells</div><div class="spoiler_body">Spells/day: Lv 1: 2<br><br>Lv 0: Guidance, Thaumaturgy, Sacred Flame<br>Lv 1: Bless, Cure Wounds, Guiding Bolt, Healing Word, Sanctuary, Divine Favor, Shield of Faith</div></div><hr><br>Green eyes narrowed upon the peg-legged dwarf when he approached the table and made himself known.&nbsp; She gently placed her fork upon the ledge of the bowl of stew.&nbsp; Then, with her left hand, she pulled one of the bags of coins to her side of the table.&nbsp; The comment about not being able to pay them fully made her arch a brow; though, it was unlikely many saw the action since the hood of her cloak was pulled up to hide her hair, ears, and most of her facial features.<br><br>She studied the dishonest merchant for a moment, as her left hand moved subtly to the hilt of her sword.&nbsp; <strong>"Well, since we'll be returning south sooner than the caravan, I'm certain every little town and hamlet will want to know the type of businessman Tenber Halfaxe is, and what exactly they should expect,"</strong> she said casually.&nbsp; <br><br>Her eyes moved to the men who had drawn against Geiron.&nbsp; <strong>"Likewise, the tales of the loyalty of the Red Company should travel far and wide.&nbsp; I'm astonished that the reputation hasn't spread already.&nbsp; When the company is willing to cut three of their own instead of force a merchant to pay them what their owed.&nbsp; It seems that they may not only lack loyalty, but they lack a spine as well."</strong><br><br><strong>"I'm curious,"</strong> she said as she leaned toward Geiron.&nbsp; Her eyes, however, never left the three men who stood before the table.&nbsp; <strong>"if the Red Company allows a one-legged dwarf to steal from them, and are too cowardly to fight for what they're owed, when they do finally find trouble, how long before they cut and run?"</strong>&nbsp; She then leaned toward Ix, and continued speaking, <strong>"Or, do you think they'll simply wait until they're out of sight of Oakhurst and simply rob the fool of a dwarf blind?"</strong>&nbsp; Her shoulders rose with a pronounced shrug, <strong>"I guess it isn't our problem anymore, though."</strong><br><br>One hand upon her coin pouch, and the other upon the hilt of her sword, she fixed Tenber with a solid gaze.&nbsp; <strong>"I hope you reach your destination, master dwarf, though, I fear, you're more likely not to, now that you've lost the only protection you could actually rely upon."</strong><br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">rolls</div><div class="spoiler_body">Summary: At 2017-05-23 02:21:16, Silaqui (uid: 31397) rolls: 1d20a6 Result: 15 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=103393)<br><br>Full Result: Silaqui rolled: 1d20, adding 6 to the total<br>Comment: Insight on dwarven caravan master<br>Result: 9,<br>Total: 15<br><hr>Summary: At 2017-05-23 02:23:11, Silaqui (uid: 31397) rolls: 1d20a4 Result: 15 (https://elliquiy.com/forums/dicebot.php?r=103394)<br><br>Full Result: Silaqui rolled: 1d20, adding 4 to the total<br>Comment: Persuade dwarf<br>Result: 11,<br>Total: 15</div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Elmoore, Ch. 1 - Into Oakhurst</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>greenknight</strong> on <strong>23-05-2017, 19:21:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/c/c4/Gieron2.jpg)</div><strong>Geiron</strong> (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=266718.msg13155571#msg13155571)<br><hr>Geiron turned to the dwarf on his right, his large left arm sheathed in mail resting on the table. All pretext of simpleness left the low voice grumbling from his chest.<strong> "I must ensure that the words twisted from thy mouth reached my ears in their correct manner, dwarf. You contracted eight men and a sergeant from the Red Company for your caravan. Do you now intend to break that contract?" </strong>He turns to his companions. <strong>"Where's the sergeant?" </strong>he asks gruffly as he stands and grabs his helmet off the table. <br><br>Finding the sergeant by one of the wagons, Geiron walked up nonchalantly. <strong>"Oy, 'sahge,' me an' da boyz wanna know 'bout da payoff, wot?" </strong>without warning, Geiron's helmet crashes into the side of the sergeant's head, dashing him to the ground. Again, Geiron drops his pretense. <strong>"Did you really think breaking Company law would lack consequence." </strong>His boot found the sergeant's midsection, knocking the wind from him and trapping him against the wagon wheel. <strong>"Once sealed, only the gods' will may breach contract. That's the Old Man's law. Join or die, that's the other law, remember. The law offered to those that stand against the Red Company. Or did you forget who I was?"</strong> Geiron continued to punctuate his argument with stomps and kicks to the downed sergeant. When he found his point made, he took the sergeant's purse and turned from the bloodied mass at his feet to his assembled fellows. <strong>"I guess only one of you has to stay, now,"</strong> he joked as he pushed his way through them and back to the bar. He knew his career with the Red Company was over for striking an officer, just as he knew the sergeant's was, too, for letting himself be beat by one of his men.<br><br>As he walked past Tenbar, he added, <strong>"You might be a good fellow and try to find enough for one more to fulfill your contract."</strong> He took another step and turned, growling, <strong>"And a fair wage for the cat, too."<br></strong><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">OOC</div><div class="spoiler_body">The above is totally subject to edit if I took too much license. I think it captures WWGD perfectly.<br><br>Intimidation on Tenbar, with advantage for the "object lesson"<br><br>At 2017-05-22 06:44:40, greenknight (uid: 46150) rolls: 2d20k1a4 Result: 24 (http:///forums/dicebot.php?r=103343)<br><br>He intends to influence Tenbar to keep an extra guard on and pay Ix her full share. Regardless, Geiron took his pay from the sergeant (as a representative of his employer, the Red Company) and he considers that the end of it. Conveniently, the sergeant's purse probably contained exactly 15 gold, 5 silver and 10 copper. Imagine that. ;) </div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Elmoore, Ch. 1 - Into Oakhurst</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Chulanowa</strong> on <strong>24-05-2017, 20:08:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;By this point Tev and Rolf have quietly and wisely taken their leave. Tenber tucked his thumbs into his belt, looking Ix as square in the eye as he can, given their height differences. "<strong>I hired you lot to keep goblins and such off my caravan. Ain't been no banditry. Not even the <em>smell</em> of them. All you bunch have done, I coulda hired a couple wainwrights and mulekickers instead, and paid half of what you just got, for the whole way. You,"</strong> he pointed a stubby finger at the cat-woman <strong>"didn't even do <em>that</em> much. Didn't see you out there in the mud and muck heaving a wagon along like these other folk did. Too scared of getting your paws dirty, I imagine?"</strong><br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;As far as Kayanna and Silaqui can tell? Tenber is being honest. Stingy, perhaps, but he seems certain he's being fair. he's also <em>incredibly</em> irritated. Which is saying something, considering that irritable is Tenber's version of happy most of the time. he once got so angry at a recalcitrant donkey that a drover had to physically stop him from making good on a promise to turn the creature into stew. and that was a good day. <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<strong>"Aye, they'll know me as a merchant what doesn't jack up the prices of his goods so he can pay people he doesn't need to pay, more than they're worth."</strong> he snapped at the elf. <strong>"You want wages for the half of the ride you won't be takin'? That wobbly-chinned lump of an ogre-spawn is probably in the town hall sniffing it right now."</strong> With a hearty snort through his scarred nose, he returns his thumbs to his belt, hitching up his trousers just a bit. Turning, he follows Gerion out, snarling under his breath about taxes, tabaxi, and elves what talk too goddamned much.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The two hired swords who had accompanied tenber in had nothing to say, and instead, decided it was as good a time as any to reduce the innkeeper's ale stock by a mug or two.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Outside, the sergeant - Devlin Danberry by name - was talking ot the other five of his company as Gerion approached. he raised a hand, waving him over.<strong> "Gerion, good. Are Hamish and Arne still in there? Listen, here's what-"</strong> <em>KLONG!</em> Gerion's helmet smashes sergeant Danberry in the face, catching him completely by surprise, and knocking him back several feet, staggering. Gerion got another kick in, before being met in turn by the sergeant's mailed fist smashing square into his face... and the fight was on!<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At least, until the two were pulled apart by the others of the company, and two of the town guards. Two soldiers in kit hammering away with fist and foot wouldn't do much lasting damage, except for blows to the face - Gerion's face has several new cuts and shallow gouges from the scalloped steel guards on the sergeant's knuckles, but between the helmet to the face and Gerion's own gauntlets, Danberry seems to have gotten the worst of it, and is in no condition to say anything particularly useful.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Having witnessed this display, Tenber stayed in the doorway of the tavern, grimacing through his wiry whiskers. When Gerion approached, the dwarf tensed, ready for a fight himself. For a good long time, he glowered at the half-orc, before relaxing. <strong>"Y'just beat the shit put of a man who forfeited his own pay to make sure the rest o'ye had plenty to go around. And now ye're costin' me to medick his dumb arse."</strong> He snorts, and spits past Gerion into the mud of the street. <strong>"Cat's lucky to have gotten anything t'all, cept a bill for shedding all over my wagon. But, don't let it ever be said Tenber Halfaxe is entirely unreasonable."</strong> he fishes around in his jacket, producing another pouch, counting out and passing the coins over with a disgusted snort, then shoves past, adding "orcs bandits what fuck stumps in the woods" to his litany of muttered indignities.<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">OOC</div><div class="spoiler_body">Tenber was actually shaken enough that his math was bad. Ix's total comes out to 17 gold and some spare copper now. </div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Elmoore, Ch. 1 - Into Oakhurst</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>RedPhoenix</strong> on <strong>26-05-2017, 06:57:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://i.imgur.com/TXHHteS.jpg)</div><strong>Kayanna Starfall (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=266718.msg13155833#msg13155833)</strong><br><br>Kayanna looked a bit disgusted as the people she'd traveled with turned into thugs and skinflints the second money got mentioned. Sure she wanted a fair pay for the work she'd done, but it seemed like some of the others wanted to get paid for work they hadn't done and wouldn't do. And they were willing to spill blood for it? <br><br>The half-elf grunted and decided she needed a change of scenery. She took her mug and walked over to the chatty locals Tev and Rolf.<br><br>"So boys," She said, sliding into a chair near them. "I'm sorry but between all of that and the moon talking over you two earlier I wasn't quite sure what you meant. Say, just for the sake of argument mind you, I was a good-hearted soul inclined to help with your local problem. Is there something that can be done to fix this...apple situation or not?" 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Elmoore, Ch. 1 - Into Oakhurst</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>AribethAmkiir</strong> on <strong>26-05-2017, 12:11:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://i1087.photobucket.com/albums/j480/Erion2451/Class_ElfCleric_zpsxxoglzod.png)</div><span style="font-size: 13pt;" class="bbc_size">Silaqui Siannodel (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=266718.msg13167949#msg13167949)</span><br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spells</div><div class="spoiler_body">Spells/day: Lv 1: 2<br><br>Lv 0: Guidance, Thaumaturgy, Sacred Flame<br>Lv 1: Bless, Cure Wounds, Guiding Bolt, Healing Word, Sanctuary, Divine Favor, Shield of Faith</div></div><hr><br>Silaqui relaxed, her hand coming off her sword's hilt, as soon as she realized Tenber was attempting to be honest.&nbsp; She still felt that he should hold to his word.&nbsp; A man with his experience, a master of a caravan, should know how many guards he would need for any given section of his caravan's journey - one she assumed he took annually, or bi-annually.&nbsp; A man who was ultimately responsible for everyone under his charge, guard and caravaner alike, displayed a complete lack of loyalty and responsibility by abandoning and stranding people in an isolated hamlet weeks from any other civilization.&nbsp; Much like a shepherd and his flock, leaving a few in the cold was as good as leaving them to the wolves.<br><br>The elf sipped the ale, her tastebuds growing numb to the less than tasteful swill.&nbsp; She felt a small bit of regret for her words.&nbsp; Perhaps she had said too much.&nbsp; Though, whether the dwarf paid them adequately for the work provided or not, he was still dishonest.&nbsp; She didn't recall any talk of being abandoned halfway through.&nbsp; What type of merchant didn't try to, at the very least, renegotiate at the first sign that things weren't going as planned?&nbsp; How long had Halfaxe known he was going to take this action?&nbsp; Before they had left their last destination, before they had left civilization well behind?&nbsp; Had the fear of the road, these last few weeks, kept him from being rational, or was his bookkeeping so poor that he only discovered his error on the trip here?<br><br>Regardless, her words had been gentle compared to what she would've said in private.&nbsp; Whether Halfaxe believed he was "doing the right thing" or not, he had no honor, his word meant nothing for he was an untrustworthy sought who played with people's lives as if they mattered less than a bag of coins.<br><br>Geiron's and Kayanna's departure from the table simply made her think that they were as unsatisfied as she had been.&nbsp; Though, the half-orc seemed more emotional than she would have expected from an intellectual of his caliber.&nbsp; It simply illustrated how little she actually knew of the other races.&nbsp; Her people's histories were rife with tales of human and dwarven dishonesty, and the scriptures of her order depicted, at length, the savagery of the orcs.&nbsp; Half-orcs, it seemed, were something completely different.&nbsp; Much like half-elves, she thought, more human than not.<br><br>Finally, she gently lifted her fork from where it rested, upon the side of her bowl, and returned to her stew.&nbsp; She remained vigilant, despite any appearance to the contrary.&nbsp; The Red Company was still around, as was the dwarf, and she had likely offended both.&nbsp; Her attention, however, was more focused on the remainder of the tale of apple seedlings which turned to gold, or some such nonsense.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Elmoore, Ch. 1 - Into Oakhurst</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>NightLux</strong> on <strong>05-06-2017, 18:13:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/9/96/HalfOrcMonk.jpg)</div><strong>Raz the Black (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=266718.msg13155529#msg13155529)</strong><br><br>Raz had been about to open his mouth to reply to a rather wonderful riposte from Ix when the coins hit the table.&nbsp; Bouncing it in his hand, he felt the weight and listened to the glancing clangs of the coins hitting each other.&nbsp; For Raz, it was full enough that it at least approximated what he was supposed to be paid; being underpaid wasn't uncommon for Raz and after a time or seven of protesting, he'd learned to let it go.&nbsp; Life had a way of working itself out; some might call it karma but for Raz, wrongs moved so much faster than rights.&nbsp; Occasionally you even got to see the wrong repaid which was a right all of its own.&nbsp; Geiron, his eyes raised when the other half-orc did, had a look on his face that he was still where Raz had been.&nbsp; But instead of saying something, he just brought the liquid in the mug up to his lips, turned in his seat and smiled at Ix.<br><br>"Dazzling memories so beautiful?" he replied, one eyebrow raised in silent question, "It would not be difficult to imagine that," he winked, turning his head slightly when he heard what sounded like metal on flesh, registering it in his mind before returning to the Tabaxi, "I think Geiron also believes that we might have been underpaid.&nbsp; Maybe a bit more forceful request than I would have," he grinned finally, stretching his back to attempt to see through the windows at the front.&nbsp; "Another round?" he asked, looking at his three-fourths empty mug and then leaning over to check hers, intentionally oblivious to the ruckus outside.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Elmoore, Ch. 1 - Into Oakhurst</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Bibliophilia</strong> on <strong>07-06-2017, 01:29:01</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://68.media.tumblr.com/4dc1c50618b8ae79bb8e4806bf202d2f/tumblr_n5he5mLZKz1tx9cjuo1_500.png)</div><br><strong>Ixelshasi 'Ix'</strong> (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=266718.msg13155574#msg13155574)<br><hr><br>A faint smile curled her lips as she met the dwarf's gaze and murmured with a note of menace to her voice.&nbsp; "Be glad that you are not being made viscerally aware of just how <em>not</em> afraid I am of getting my paws dirty."&nbsp; She settled back into her seat, wrapping her hands around her nearly-empty cup and purring at Raz with a nod when he brought up a second round.<br><br>The sounds from outside seemed not to faze her in the least, though she looked quite pleased over the sudden addition of gold to her share.&nbsp; She distributed the additional pay among all of them, however, apparently not caring that she ended up with less than they did.&nbsp; The dwarf was correct, after all, she had done less hard labor than the others.&nbsp; But she was not so foolish as to believe that the excuse he'd given was the <em>actual</em> reason he'd attempted to pay her less.&nbsp; She'd lived too long with the prejudice against her people to believe that.<br><br>Choosing to focus on Raz, as her share f the pay deftly vanished somewhere on her person, she offered the half-orc a toothy grin.&nbsp; "Perhaps after we find out what sort of trick these goblins are playing on the villagers, you can do more than imagine."<br><br>She glanced over toward the men that Kayanna was speaking to, and returned to her meal, nibbling delicately at a hunk of meat on her spoon with her ears pricked toward the conversation across the room.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Elmoore, Ch. 1 - Into Oakhurst</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Countdown0</strong> on <strong>07-06-2017, 02:29:43</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://i.imgur.com/DTnI7Zwm.jpg)</div><span style="font-size: 18pt;" class="bbc_size">Therengrath (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=266718.msg13156493#msg13156493)</span><br><br>"Well, I had heard about these apples. I mean, I heard a rumor," Therengrath started. His own drink was still more than half-full - lightweight that he was when it came to alcohol - and instead he focused on the discussion of the stolen saplings. "These apples that the goblins sell... well, apparently they, uh..." he paused, clearing his throat. "Apparently they... <em>strengthen</em> a man's performance," he said. He realized that maybe that statement wasn't specific enough, but was trying to dance around outright saying it. "You know... his... private efforts?" The wizard said. The implication of what he was saying was probably more obvious to everyone else in the party than it was to him. Sheltered as he was however, Therengrath didn't know if the rest of the group would take his meaning. He hoped they would, as to any observer it would be pretty obvious that Therengrath didn't want to speak in such an explicit way as to just come out with the nitty gritty of it all. As if to show that he didn't want to be more forward with his phrasing, he brought his mug up to his lips for a long drink.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Elmoore, Ch. 1 - Into Oakhurst</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Chulanowa</strong> on <strong>08-06-2017, 06:10:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				OOC: Hope nobody minds a bit of tavern NPC-given exposition dump. Would kinda like to kick this one forward a bit and a conversational blow-by-blow on everything could take a very long time in PbP&nbsp; ;D<br><br><hr><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Tev and Rolf were actually about to get back to their work... but hey, it's not every day a pretty half-elf from somewhere far away wants to have a chat. They are more than happy to fill Kayanna in on the subject of apples. The basic gist is thus; a few years ago, some goblins came out of the Thornwood, offering trade. What they offered was single perfect red apple that they claimed could cure any injury or illness. The damned thing was, to worked - but as word got around, demand went up, and so did the price. Each year the goblins ask for more money. Last year they got fifty gold pieces out of the town for the thing - and from what the men tell you, that's quite a sum for Oakhurst. So naturally, the townsfolk have been trying to grow the apples from seed. Every time the young trees seem to be going well though, they vanish, stolen away at night, sometimes one at a time, sometimes all at once<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;To answer the obvious yes, they have set guards, yes they have followed tracks, and still it happens. The favored explanation is that first, goblins are just naturally sneaky little buggers, but obviously if they have some magic to create all-healing fruit, surely they can be extra-sneaky, right?<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;They reiterate that the mayor or this Gellie lady <em>might</em> be able to tell Kayanna more about the trees and such, but they seem confident that they've given all the information anyone in the town really knows. Tev mentions that the goblins are <em>suspected</em> to make their home in a ravine within the Thornwood; no one really goes deep into the forest. He also warns against the swamp, on account of the toads. <br><br><hr><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;So. By the setting of the sun, Tenber's caravan - minus you lot and a handful of others - has already pulled out to continue the trip north. The owner of the Old Boar is willing to let people stay; he has two open rooms, though admits they're furnished for halflings, at two silver a night; or you could sleep by the hearth in the commons room for half that; or for half of <em>that</em> a spot in the stables. All options come with dinner and breakfast, though! he does warn all of you - with one eye on Gerion, the other on Ix - that he will brook no trouble in his establishment. Typical innkeeper stuff.<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;What's your next move, oh stranded adventurers?
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Elmoore, Ch. 1 - Into Oakhurst</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>greenknight</strong> on <strong>08-06-2017, 20:26:15</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				&nbsp;<div class="floatleft">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/c/c4/Gieron2.jpg)</div><strong>Geiron</strong> (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=266718.msg13155571#msg13155571)<br><hr><strong>“Dumb’s right,” </strong>Geiron glared back at Tenbar.<strong> “Risks his commission for no pay. But I see you’re not that kind of fool,” </strong>he grinned maliciously hefting the sack for Ix.<br>&nbsp;<br>Returning to the table and tossing it down in front of her, he took his seat again and returned to his stew. <strong>“Cap’n’s law. ‘Can’ break it, G,’ says da Cap’n,”</strong> Geiron offered by way of grinning explanation. <strong>“Othea’s tits! He knows why the Captain sends me.” </strong>He muttered into his cup. <br><br>And laughed into the froth at Therengrath’s supposition about the apples. <strong>“So, it’s a diff’rent kind of deal you want to cut with Matilda, then?”</strong> he asked Therengrath, his good humor returned.<br>&nbsp;<br>At the innkeeper’s suggestions, Geiron passes two coins to him and adds,<strong> “Dey don’t starts none, don’t be’s none.”</strong><br>&nbsp;<br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">OOK, OOK</div><div class="spoiler_body">Geiron will let Kayanna continue to work the potential employers for more info. Sounds like as good a job as any.</div></div> 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Elmoore, Ch. 1 - Into Oakhurst</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>RedPhoenix</strong> on <strong>10-06-2017, 05:28:22</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://i.imgur.com/TXHHteS.jpg)</div><strong>Kayanna Starfall (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=266718.msg13155833#msg13155833)</strong><br><br>Kayanna listened patiently to the tales of goblins and apples. She was smiling pleasantly enough but when they left she was still a bit confused. 50 gold didn't seem like a grave injustice for a magical cure all. At the academy they would have charged several times that. And the goblins stealing seeds...wouldn't that just be protecting their property? She didn't quite understand the problem, and considering that she had to pry all of this out of the locals she figured they didn't much want help with it.<br><br>Shrugging all of that off as a red herring, she slid the bartender a silver coin to spend the night in the common room and unpacked her bedroll to toss down as close to the fire as she could get. She figured sleeping in the common room at least she might run into someone interesting. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Elmoore, Ch. 1 - Into Oakhurst</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>AribethAmkiir</strong> on <strong>12-06-2017, 00:05:42</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatleft">(http://i1087.photobucket.com/albums/j480/Erion2451/Class_ElfCleric_zpsxxoglzod.png)</div><span style="font-size: 13pt;" class="bbc_size">Silaqui Siannodel (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=266718.msg13167949#msg13167949)</span><br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spells</div><div class="spoiler_body">Spells/day: Lv 1: 2<br><br>Lv 0: Guidance, Thaumaturgy, Sacred Flame<br>Lv 1: Bless, Cure Wounds, Guiding Bolt, Healing Word, Sanctuary, Divine Favor, Shield of Faith</div></div><hr><strong>"So they effect one's libido?"</strong> she suggested to the wizard.&nbsp; It was odd that someone as educated as he should stumble to come up with the right word.&nbsp; Perhaps he wasn't as scholarly as he'd have everyone believe, she pondered.<br><br>It sounded, to her, like the villagers were trying to cheat the goblins out of their treasure by growing the trees themselves.&nbsp; Sure, it was clever, but most thieves were rather clever, she thought as she glanced at Ix from the corner of her eyes.<br><br>Her brow knit together when Geiron returned.&nbsp; She had on idea what he was trying to say.&nbsp; Had he taken a blow to the head?&nbsp; She watched him for signs of concussion or other bizarre behavior, but after awhile she figured it must just be the ale.<br><br>When the night wore on and it appeared to be time to think about lodging, Silaqui inquired about the rooms, and about a bath, for the second time.&nbsp; However, when she learned that the rooms were only furnished for a halfling, she laughed.&nbsp; <strong>"How is it that your only rooms are furnished for halflings?&nbsp; Does Oakhurst not receive elven, dwarven, or human merchants?&nbsp; Tell me you at least have a tub that would work."</strong>
			</dd>
		</dl>
		<div id="footer" class="smalltext">
			
			<span class="smalltext" style="display: inline; visibility: visible; font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif;"><a href="https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?action=credits" title="Simple Machines Forum" target="_blank" class="new_win">SMF 2.0.19</a> |
 <a href="https://www.simplemachines.org/about/smf/license.php" title="License" target="_blank" class="new_win">SMF © 2021</a>, <a href="https://www.simplemachines.org" title="Simple Machines" target="_blank" class="new_win">Simple Machines</a>
			</span>
		</div>