[Into the Hoarwood] An Adventure in Irrisen
<h1 id="title">Elliquiy Role Playing Forums</h1>
		<h2 id="linktree">Play-By-Post: Light =&gt; Light: Human Small Groups =&gt; Topic started by: clonkertink on 05-05-2017, 19:10:54</h2>
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				Title: <strong>[Into the Hoarwood] An Adventure in Irrisen</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>clonkertink</strong> on <strong>05-05-2017, 19:10:54</strong>
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				<em>In Irrisen, Land of Eternal Winter, on the edge of the forest of Hoarwood, there was a village known as Orvinsby. There the people eked out a hard existence, but they did not complain. The world outside their village was a cruel place, ruled by witches. Father Pandolf said Erastil had blessed Orvinsby, and hidden it from the witches, and the strange creatures that prowled the forest. <br><br>But sometimes it was necessary to leave the village, and brave the wintry woods for food and supplies…</em><br><br><hr><br>“If you’re going into the woods, then you have to keep your wits about you,” Roga’s father said. The older blacksmith had always been a level-headed Erastilite, practical and focused on the present. His son, on the other hand, had a penchant for daydreaming and while it might be a relatively harmless habit when working the forge, the woods were full of unexpected dangers. “Hektor Reinhardt went missing in the woods a couple of days ago. I don’t want the same to happen to you.”<br><br>Roga’s father fell silent for a moment as he examined his son. The truth was, Roga wasn’t a boy any longer. He had to be free to make his own mistakes. Having made up his mind, with a final nod, the blacksmith turned and took an old sword down from the mantlepiece.<br><br>“Here, Roga,” the blacksmith said, handing his son the blade. “When you go into the forest, you take your family with you.”<br><br><hr><br>Meanwhile, atop a colourful wagon on the edge of town perched a snowy white hawk. The hawk, the wagon, and the young woman who lived inside, were all sources of rumour and superstition throughout the village. Some said the woman was a witch, and the hawk her familiar. Others said she worshipped a benevolent goddess, an ancient ally of Erastil. Whatever the case, it was well known that she was skilled in the arts of healing and even the most superstitious townsfolk might seek her out at times, when injuries or ailments seemed beyond the skill of Father Pandolf or one of his acolytes.<br><br>But these healing arts relied on herbs that could only be found in the forest, and of late the young woman had found herself running short…
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				Title: <strong>Re: [Into the Hoarwood] An Adventure in Irrisen</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aeval</strong> on <strong>07-05-2017, 01:53:47</strong>
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				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/5/5e/Zeldana.jpg)</div><br>Zeldana looked at her store of herbs and shook her head. She was woefully low on almost everything! This would NEVER do! If anyone came to her for burns, headaches, <br>stomach aches or worse, she would have to turn them away and THAT she had never done. <br><br>She took her paper and quill and began to look into each basket and each bottle and then write down what she needed:<br>Aloe Vera for burns<br>Basil for memory and warts<br>Cilantro for digestive purposes<br>Dandlion root for stomach problems and for clear skin and for infections- she needed ALOT of this!!<br>Garlic for colds, burns, ear aches, sore throats, breathing problems and sinus infections<br>Lemon Balm for pregnancy, nausea, too much sun and when people are anxious<br>Lavender for pain and to help someone sleep.<br>She went through her entire stock and was almost dismayed at how much she needed. But that NEVER stopped Zeldana from doing what she must!<br><br>She finished her list and picked up a large basket to carry everything back and walked outside. Her lovely, white falcon, Hor, came to perch on her shoulder. <br><br>"Yes, Hor..we must go out into the cold and collect herbs. If we don't, then I really don't have much of a purpose here as I would have to turn away everyone and tell them I have no herbs to cure them!!"<br><br>She started off in the direction of the edge of town to meet Roga. He said he would help her and it was better she didn't venture into the woods by herself. After all, if anything happened to her, she had no parents or brothers or sisters to worry about her and call someone for help. She was glad to spend a little time with Roga. She always felt warm when she was around him.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [Into the Hoarwood] An Adventure in Irrisen</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Muse</strong> on <strong>07-05-2017, 02:18:56</strong>
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				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/a/aa/Roga_Forge.jpg)</div><strong>Roga Forge</strong> (https://docs.google.com/document/d/128R5QqzTGk5c47ns_hYIFelmYY00mB7XC0Eve_tPJZc/edit)<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Roga started out preparing to be exasperated by another one of his fathers, “get your feet on the ground,” lectures.&nbsp; Adolescent eye rolls froze in place when his father mentioned Hektor.&nbsp; The young warrior nodded gravely.&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<em>I can't let Zeldana go in there alone again.&nbsp; &nbsp;Father's right, ti really Is a dangerous place.&nbsp; I need to learn to pay attention...</em>&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He almost drifted off into his thoughts mid speech, but straightened up when his father took down the family sword.&nbsp; His eyes widened a little.&nbsp; As he took the blade, Roga felt a swelling of pride.&nbsp; “Thank you, Father.&nbsp; I am honored.&nbsp; I pledge to return to our hearth, and return this blade with me.” &nbsp;He held the sword across his chest by the scabbard and gave a little bow.&nbsp; “And I'll keep my eye open for Hektor, too.”&nbsp; <br><br>*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;*&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;*<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At the edge of the village, Zeldana could spot Roga approaching.&nbsp; He was a tall young man, a year older than she.&nbsp; His hair was dark, and his eyes blue.&nbsp; His limbs were thick and strong from the forge, which also left his arms and even one spot on his face lightly scarred.&nbsp; He walked along at an easy pace, snow crunching down an inch or snow beneath his boots even on the road.&nbsp; He wore sturdy, clean clothes, beneath a mail shirt, beneath a long coat.&nbsp; Roga liked to be prepared, there was sure to be a parka in that big metal-frame pack on his back.&nbsp; A&nbsp; few times hung from the pack, including a curious steel bar with no apparent purpose.&nbsp; It wasn't bent like a crowbar, nor had it a head like a hammer or ax.&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He charred a small, well balanced hammer in a loop on his belt, and a somewhat ceremonial looking sword on a baldric at his left hip.&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Finally noticing Zeldana from a few paces away, he looked into her eyes and smiled.&nbsp; “Good morning, Lady Shadowdancer.&nbsp; Are you ready for a little adventure?” &nbsp;
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [Into the Hoarwood] An Adventure in Irrisen</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aeval</strong> on <strong>07-05-2017, 02:49:49</strong>
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				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/5/5e/Zeldana.jpg)</div><br>Zeldana saw the large figure approach and thought to herself: <em>He is QUITE handsome!!</em>&nbsp; She blushed at the thought and then at his comment. It was so courtly- so grownup. No one had ever called her a 'Shadowdancer'. She felt it was a compliment and she hoped he meant it that way.<br><br>She curtsied to play along.<br><br>"Good day, Master Blacksmith. Are you a swordsman now as well?" She said with respect with a hint of laughter in her voice.<br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [Into the Hoarwood] An Adventure in Irrisen</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Muse</strong> on <strong>07-05-2017, 02:58:02</strong>
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				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/a/aa/Roga_Forge.jpg)</div><strong>Roga Forge</strong> (https://docs.google.com/document/d/128R5QqzTGk5c47ns_hYIFelmYY00mB7XC0Eve_tPJZc/edit)<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Roga grinned and touched the scabard.&nbsp; "My family goes into the woods with us today," he explaiend.&nbsp; Then he laughed a little and added, "I know enough not to stab myself in the foot.&nbsp; I've studdiedd with the militia.&nbsp; Most of what they teach us is to march in unison, and protect each other with our shields.&nbsp; I know my way around hamer, axe, and spear better than sword, but one of the captains gave me some instruction." &nbsp;<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He smiled a little then and added, "What about you, my lady?&nbsp; Have you practiced with those star-knives i made you?&nbsp; I hope they're to your liking."&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He glanced down at her cleavage, curious if she was wearing the armored bodice he'd crafted--and wanting to get a better look at her cleavage.&nbsp; 
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [Into the Hoarwood] An Adventure in Irrisen</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aeval</strong> on <strong>07-05-2017, 03:06:46</strong>
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				She listened in respect to his explanation. His family came with them because he had his sword? How interesting and yet, it was quite special. To have something with you of your family- to never feel alone. She had never thought like that. She would return to her wagon and see if she had something from her mother passed from her grandmother- something she could ALWAYS have with her. <br><br>"It is a wonderful thing to have an heirloom that means so much to you and your family. It's a lovely idea to carry it with you and know your family is with you as well."<br><br>She spoke the sentence quietly. She missed her parents very much. She wished sickness had not taken them both. But she had learned long ago there was no use in letting herself fret over it. It would not bring them back.<br><br>She smiled. and then blessed, her cheeks warming as she noticed where his gaze was fixed. Her arms came up even higher as she carried the basket close to her and then walked ahead of him quickly. <br><br>"We have much ground to cover this day if we wish to be back before nightfall. And I for one do not wish to stay in this forest over night- I've heard too many stories of people who are caught in the woods at night and never seem to return!!" She shivered at that idea.
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				Title: <strong>Re: [Into the Hoarwood] An Adventure in Irrisen</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>clonkertink</strong> on <strong>07-05-2017, 04:16:58</strong>
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				Indeed, the forest was the source of many strange stories. In other lands, they might have been dismissed as tall tales meant to frighten children away from the mundane dangers that abounded in any forest. But in Irrisen... well, Irrisen belonged to the witches. In the Land of Eternal it was often difficult to where truth ended and superstition began.<br><br>Anyone who had ventured beyond the borders of Orvinsby had their own strange tale to tell. There were stories of ethereal riders, doomed to wander the woods forever on an impossible hunt; stories of lone maidens whose weeping foretold doom; stories of wolves whose fangs left no mark upon the flesh, but could rend the very soul from a man... Such was not beyond the realm of possibility, where witches ruled.<br><br>As for the task at hand, it would be quite a challenge in itself. The endless winter of Irrisen killed off much of the plant life, leaving mostly pines and the strange winteryews or "Witch Trees". However, Zeldana had learned over the years where to find much of what she needed.<br><br>Garlic would be the easiest. Most people kept a few cloves, just in case they needed to ward themselves against a supernatural horror. It would simply be a matter of finding a friendly neighbour to ask. Of course, not all her neighbours were friendly. Fruit was an expensive luxury, but the Dahl family might have some on hand. The Dahls were the wealthiest family in the village, which is to say that they could afford a slice of fruit after meals from time to time.<br><br>Sven the Merchant would also carry much of what she needed. He would certainly have basil and cilantro in his spice racks. If she was lucky, he might even carry some of the more exotic herbs from farther south, like Aloe Vera and Eucalyptus.&nbsp; The village would simply have to endure their warts and upset stomachs for a couple days longer until Sven's next visit.<br><br>It was the Dandelion and Lavender that Zeldana needed to venture out for. Lavender, Zeldana knew, grew by the edge of some hot springs a little way from the village. Dandelions were hard to come by, but there was a rare strain that had survived the perpetual frosts and still grew in patches slightly deeper into the Hoarwood.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [Into the Hoarwood] An Adventure in Irrisen</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aeval</strong> on <strong>12-05-2017, 04:56:08</strong>
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				Zeldana looked at her list again and frowned. She thought to herself and bit her lower lip as she did:<br><br>&nbsp;<em>Why does it have to be winter!! So many herbs to collect but the ground is so cold I will not be able to find most of them. Thank goodness for some of my neighbors that I can rely on them for some of what is needed. Some may be reluctant to sell me or barter with me for the herbs but I or my mother or my grandmother before them have helped most of these families out at one time or another and they realize if I do not have the herbs that are needed, then when one of theirs fall ill, I would not be able to help. </em><br><br>She nodded and looked at Roga.<br><br>"Because the ground is frozen- I can only look for lavender and dandelion in the forest and the dandelion is a bit difficult to find. I know where it is but I will have to hunt a bit in the ground to find it. We will have to go deeper into the forest, do you mind?"<br><br>She hoped Roga would say it wasn't a problem for if she could not gather the lavender and dandelions, well, she did not want to think what that would mean.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [Into the Hoarwood] An Adventure in Irrisen</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Muse</strong> on <strong>13-05-2017, 16:15:46</strong>
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				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/a/aa/Roga_Forge.jpg)</div><strong>Roga Forge</strong> (https://docs.google.com/document/d/128R5QqzTGk5c47ns_hYIFelmYY00mB7XC0Eve_tPJZc/edit)<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Roga gave a rueful chuckle.&nbsp; "Zeldana, I would very dealy love to say, 'Fear not, fair damsel, I'll protect you in these woods.'&nbsp; I know that you are wiser than I in the ways of the woods, though, and I will put my trust in your wisdom.&nbsp; I will say instead, 'I am with you for this journey, fair damsel, and my sword is yours to command."&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He paused looked down at the snow for a moment and frowned.&nbsp; &nbsp;"Everything is always frozen, since time imemoreal. <br>&nbsp;You've traveled beyond the borders of Irrisen, Zeldana.&nbsp; Tell of spring?&nbsp; And Summer?&nbsp; They are but legends to me, stories told to children who's truth I only know from histories bought from the pedlar."&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Then he gave a soft chuckle, "But let's get started as we talk."&nbsp; 
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				Title: <strong>Re: [Into the Hoarwood] An Adventure in Irrisen</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>clonkertink</strong> on <strong>13-05-2017, 17:15:35</strong>
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				It was a commonly held superstition among the people of Orvinsby that there was a point where Erastil's protection ended. Somewhere between the last of the houses and the first of the winteryews the brisk chill ceased to invigorate the spirit, and became a bitter cold that sapped the strength from a wanderer's bones. As the two companions cleared the last of the houses, the cold wind certainly seemed to blow harder, slicing through their layers of furs, and prickling across their skin.<br><br>It would not do to linger out here in the cold. Best to find the herbs quickly, and return home to a warm faire. Now, how well did Zeldana remember the way to those hot springs, where the lavender grew?<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Zeldana's Survival Check: 1d20 + 11</div><div class="spoiler_body">Rolled with Permission<br><br>16+11 = 27<br><br>Zeldana finds her way to the hot springs without any difficulty.<br></div></div>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [Into the Hoarwood] An Adventure in Irrisen</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Muse</strong> on <strong>15-05-2017, 18:39:42</strong>
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				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/a/aa/Roga_Forge.jpg)</div><strong>Roga Forge</strong> (https://docs.google.com/document/d/128R5QqzTGk5c47ns_hYIFelmYY00mB7XC0Eve_tPJZc/edit)<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;When they reached the hot spring, Roga moved a half step ahad of Zeldana.&nbsp; He'd been walking with his little hammer drawn and resting over one shoulder.&nbsp; He scanned the area with his eyes and ears, then checked any obvious hiding places for something that might jump out at them.&nbsp; He gave the hotspring a little yearning look.&nbsp; "I wonder..." he said whistfuly, eyes dancing, "If we could get a little swim and not freeze before we dry off.&nbsp; I'm not sure i've ever seen that much hot water in one palce before!"&nbsp; <br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">Percpetion -1<br>Survival 17</div></div>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [Into the Hoarwood] An Adventure in Irrisen</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>clonkertink</strong> on <strong>15-05-2017, 19:22:59</strong>
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				The companions were greeted by a pleasantly warm fog rolling off the water's surface, like a cozy blanket of clouds. There was one large pool that stretched across the rocky clearing, the bottom visible through the clear water many feet below. This large pond was ringed by several smaller pools, only about waist deep.<br><br>The springs were nestled in a rocky clearing, sheltered on one side by a steep hillside that served as a natural windbreak, and the warmth that permeated the area had melted the snow. It seemed that this was enough for a few brave flowers to sprout in defiance of the brutal cold. Zeldana could see the lavender sprouting at the edge of one of these pools, near a family of elk that had stopped to take advantage of the rare, unfrozen water.<br><br>As Roga surveyed the place, he noted an odd lack of any tributary streams or rivers. Surely, this place should have dried up, or the standing water on the surface frozen over long ago. This detail only served to amplify the feeling that this was a place out of a storybook, a sacred little place that nature had spared from winter's cruelty.
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				Title: <strong>Re: [Into the Hoarwood] An Adventure in Irrisen</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aeval</strong> on <strong>22-05-2017, 02:13:25</strong>
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				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/5/5e/Zeldana.jpg)</div><br>Zeldana took in the hot spring with blessed reverence. She walked quietly to its edge and sank to her knees placing her hands in the water, closing her eyes and whispering a prayer of thanks. She was thankful that the spring had not dried up and that the Goddess had helped her to find the way there. She could see the beautiful lilac blossoms of the lavender and in closing her eyes, she inhaled their heavenly scent. She knew that Roga wanted to swim here- who wouldn't . What he did not realize was for her- it was almost a necessity. It had been many moons since she had made her way to the sacred place. immersing herself in it's calming waters would invigorate her and give her strength and energy to continue with the ministrations of the sick and those needing her help. <br><br>Without a word, she took off her fur coat. She unlaced her bodice and let her gown slip from her shoulders. she next bent and slipped out of her shoes. She pulled the drawstring on her slim pants and let them fall to the ground. Last, she shrugged out of her camisole.&nbsp; She unbound her hair and let the blackish strands fly free around her body. They tickled at her naked skin and she laughed softly. This was a sacred place for her, a place as warm and loving as was her home. Here she could feel the spirits of her mother and grandmother and great, great grandmother. It was here she could feel the strongest power of the goddess. She spread her hands out wide on each side of her body and looked up to the heavens.<br><br>"Thank you, Goddess Mother, for allowing us to reach your sacred spring. Allow us to bathe in the essence of your love and carry us on to complete our journey."<br><br>Zeldana did not look at Roga nor was she embarrassed about her nakedness. She was doing service to her Goddess and there was nothing shameful nor degrading about that. The cold began to prick at her skin. She placed her hands together above her head and with one swift and graceful leap, she entered the water, disappearing beneath its clear blue mirror.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [Into the Hoarwood] An Adventure in Irrisen</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>clonkertink</strong> on <strong>22-05-2017, 09:35:27</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				Zeldana's skin prickled against the cold as she disrobed, making the warm water that much more of a welcome shock as she dove in. This was one of the few places in Irrisen that knew true warmth. Cabins always had their share of cracks where the wind could creep in, and blankets never quite kept out all of the chill. But here, beneath the surface of the water, Zeldana was totally enveloped, surrounded like a loving embrace.<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Zeldana</div><div class="spoiler_body">Make a perception check,<br></div></div><br>As she surfaced, the cold air latched on to her slick hair, causing it to gradually stiffen until submerged once more. The elk over at the smaller pond, took only a moment to note her presence before going back to drinking at their own little pool.<br><br>To Roga, standing on the shore, the blanket of mist obscured Zeldana only slightly, and the water was so clear that it did nothing at all to hide her form. 
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [Into the Hoarwood] An Adventure in Irrisen</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Muse</strong> on <strong>24-05-2017, 14:16:15</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/a/aa/Roga_Forge.jpg)</div><strong>Roga Forge</strong> (https://docs.google.com/document/d/128R5QqzTGk5c47ns_hYIFelmYY00mB7XC0Eve_tPJZc/edit)<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Roga was still scanning the region when Zeldana began to disrobe.&nbsp; He glanced her way and his eyes widened, cheeks heating, for he'd turned just in time to witness the raven haired girl bearing her magnificent breasts.&nbsp; He hesistated, resisting a sudden urge to embrace the girl--or flee in confusion.&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A few moments later, when her beautiful body was completely bare to his eyes, Roga gaped when his friend leaped into the water.&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;With a startled gasp, Roga dropped his pack and ran to the edge of the pool reaching for the clasp to his sword so he could extend the sheathed blade to help her out.&nbsp; The young man's eyes widened...&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;“Zeldana...” he gasped.&nbsp; “You're...&nbsp; Swimming...&nbsp; I've read about it...”&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He took a step back, then grinned, then laughed.&nbsp; Not looking away from his beautiful friend, Roga pulled off his jacket and mail shirt, then unlaced the padding underneath and tossed it aside.&nbsp; He loosed his own ink black hair and let the chill breeze catch it.&nbsp; “Show me how?” he asked, grinning, and undoing his belt.&nbsp; <br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">Rolled on behalf of Zendana, at Aeval's request.&nbsp; The dice were not kind.&nbsp; <br>Percpetion 11</div></div>[/quote]
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [Into the Hoarwood] An Adventure in Irrisen</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aeval</strong> on <strong>02-06-2017, 07:02:46</strong>
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				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/5/5e/Zeldana.jpg)</div><br>As Zeldana surfaced she caught Roga's words and then she laughed. Her hands stroked through her long hair pulling the wet length away from her face. She watched as Roga began to undress to enter the water and then his first words sank in. "I've read about it." That meant he did NOT know how to swim! Zeldana was in the middle of the pond and was not standing because of it's depth. She also knew that if Roga was not careful, he could easily drown and because of his size, there was a chance she would not be able to save him. She began swimming as quickly as she could to shore while yelling to him:<br><br>"Roga! Wait!! Wait until I reach you!!!"
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [Into the Hoarwood] An Adventure in Irrisen</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Muse</strong> on <strong>02-06-2017, 07:07:30</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/a/aa/Roga_Forge.jpg)</div><strong>Roga Forge</strong> (https://docs.google.com/document/d/128R5QqzTGk5c47ns_hYIFelmYY00mB7XC0Eve_tPJZc/edit)<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The young smith grinned at Zeldana as he slipped out of hsi pants and smallcothes.&nbsp; He hung his sword on a gree, but then willignly waited for her arival to get in.&nbsp; This left his handsome body in open view, manhood somewhat swolen from his admiraiton of her, body sculped by the forge.&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Without thought, he touched her on the cheek when she reached him, eyes dancing.&nbsp; "I want to learn." 
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [Into the Hoarwood] An Adventure in Irrisen</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aeval</strong> on <strong>02-06-2017, 07:09:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/5/5e/Zeldana.jpg)</div><br>As she swam to him, his full naked body came into her view. All thoughts of why she was swimming to him were forgotten as her eyes took in the broadness of his shoulders, his sculpted chest, his long legs and his manhood that stood straight as an arrow and as full as a child's cheeks when they have filled their mouths with sweets. She felt her cheeks redden and her body became warm. <br><br>She reached him and walked out of the water, mesmerized. And then his hand touched her cheek. She did not think of what she was doing and she could no more stop it than she could stop breathing. Her hand came up to cover his and she leaned into his hand closing her eyes and letting her body feel the warmth of his hand as that warmth flowed from cheek to breast down to the very core of her womanhood.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [Into the Hoarwood] An Adventure in Irrisen</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Muse</strong> on <strong>02-06-2017, 07:58:56</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/a/aa/Roga_Forge.jpg)</div><strong>Roga Forge</strong> (https://docs.google.com/document/d/128R5QqzTGk5c47ns_hYIFelmYY00mB7XC0Eve_tPJZc/edit)<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Roga's breath caught in his throat.&nbsp; His heart hammered and, for a split second, as his blood raced hot and his flesh-purse tight--he didn't know what to do...&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He took a deep breath, and suddenly moved with natural ease.&nbsp; stepping up closer to Zeldana, Roga rested one hand softly on her hip.&nbsp; He bent down and grazed her lips softly with his own.&nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [Into the Hoarwood] An Adventure in Irrisen</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aeval</strong> on <strong>02-06-2017, 14:58:09</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Her head lifted to his and her lips met his: soft, warm, full. He tasted of pine and and...what was that??? Garlic??? She couldn't help herself as a giggle that started deep in her belly escaped through her lips and she pulled away from him covering her mouth with her hand, embarrassed that she had just laughed as he kissed her.<br><br>"I'm...I'm so sorry, Roga.. She turned from him to compose herself and then walked into the water until it covered her breasts. She extended her hand..<br><br>"Come- let me teach you to swim."Her smile was broad and warm and welcoming.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [Into the Hoarwood] An Adventure in Irrisen</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Muse</strong> on <strong>02-06-2017, 15:16:45</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/a/aa/Roga_Forge.jpg)</div><strong>Roga Forge</strong> (https://docs.google.com/document/d/128R5QqzTGk5c47ns_hYIFelmYY00mB7XC0Eve_tPJZc/edit)<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Roga blinked a few times when she started laughing.&nbsp; His breath was a litlte fast, and the softness of her lips lingered in the memory of his flesh.&nbsp; After a confused moment, her apology and the pleasure gave him confidence that the kiss had been acccepted, reciprocated.&nbsp; There would be others soon.&nbsp; Just...&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Not quite yet.&nbsp; Grinning, Roga danced down into the water 'til he stood beside Zeldrana.&nbsp; A broad grin stretched across his lips.&nbsp; "How do we start?"&nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [Into the Hoarwood] An Adventure in Irrisen</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aeval</strong> on <strong>02-06-2017, 15:23:40</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She took his hand, happy that he was not offended from her laughing. She was not experienced with men, keeping to herself most of the time. Most of the men stayed away afraid she was a witch and would turn them into a toad! What silly nonsense! But she did nothing to quell those rumors- she liked being alone- she had Hor for company and that was all she needed. She would go into the village each week to pick up fresh bread and cheese and other supplies. The women folk were usually very nice to her.<br><br>She pulled him in a little deeper as he was much taller than her.<br><br>"Your body will naturally float so do not be afraid. People that panic are the ones that drown. Lay on the water spreading your arms out and then kick with your feet. Keep doing that until you can stay afloat! Do NOT go any deeper, even if you want to!"<br><br>With that she let go of his hand and swam a bit away from him still keeping him in sight- watching in case he should need her. It was shallow enough for him and there shouldn't be any reason for him to need her help. He was a strong man and he had a brain, she felt he would be ok.<br><br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [Into the Hoarwood] An Adventure in Irrisen</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Muse</strong> on <strong>02-06-2017, 15:40:35</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/a/aa/Roga_Forge.jpg)</div><strong>Roga Forge</strong> (https://docs.google.com/document/d/128R5QqzTGk5c47ns_hYIFelmYY00mB7XC0Eve_tPJZc/edit)<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Roga paid intent attention to Zeldana as she instructed him, though the beauty of her face--and other parts of her, partialy concealed bellow the water--threatened ot draw his attention away.&nbsp; He managed to take it all in, though.&nbsp; For a moment, he closed his eyes, tongue pressing into his left cheek in conentration.&nbsp; A few of the breathing exercises he'd learned as part of spellcasting practice...&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"My body will float naturaly," he whispered, then nodded.&nbsp; Inhaling a little hard, he lay gently back in the water and felt it allmost catching him...&nbsp; Or embracing him.&nbsp; Easy, relaxed breathing and a little hop, and his powerful body floated towards the surface.&nbsp; (Manhood still a bit swollen from excitement, if not so still anymore...)&nbsp; Rogra grinned.&nbsp; "It's like the water is lifting me..."&nbsp; He gave a few expiramental kicks, angling slightly into the shallows.&nbsp; The movement came easily.... <br>&nbsp;He got excited, kicked a little faster...&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;This time, his angle was wrong and he pushed his head under the water!&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Roga gave a startled jerk!&nbsp; He floundered, spitting out water as his head came up.&nbsp; For a moment, he thrashed a little...&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Then he caught himself and flipped his feet down, standing up—hips just above the water.&nbsp; He stood there, laughing, one hand behind his head.&nbsp; “I just swam!”&nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [Into the Hoarwood] An Adventure in Irrisen</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>clonkertink</strong> on <strong>02-06-2017, 16:01:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Up in the branches of a nearby tree, Hor screeched out what sounded like a laugh, as Roga briefly floundered in the water. The bird had always seemed a little wary around Roga, as if appraising the boy's intentions towards his mistress, and he certainly seemed to enjoy any moment that might give Roga cause for embarrassment. Hor made a few taunting little squawks as Roga regained his composure, before returning to preening his snowy plumage.<br><br>The lifting sensation in the water was a very new feeling. It was easy to find enough water to fill a bathtub, but that was hardly the same as this. The water really did seem to be lifting him, supporting him in a way he'd never really expected. It almost did feel like there were hands holding him up above the water. Zeldana, too, had often felt a similar feeling here, like the water provided more than just buoyancy, but a warm embrace.<br><br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">OoC</div><div class="spoiler_body">I would like two perception checks from each of you.<br>Perception check 1 has no penalty, as it relates to your immediate circumstances.<br>Perception check 2 has a -4 penalty, because your focus is primarily on learning to swim, and the pretty naked person you're with.<br><br>Hor has also rolled a perception check. He got a 1. Real eagle eyed there.<br></div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [Into the Hoarwood] An Adventure in Irrisen</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Muse</strong> on <strong>02-06-2017, 16:13:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">Percpetion 1: 12<br>Perception 2: 5<br></div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [Into the Hoarwood] An Adventure in Irrisen</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aeval</strong> on <strong>12-06-2017, 14:33:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<strong>Zeldana</strong> (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1qNlJu1nqziSiN7txIdoYVPaArnvEuvLnYoYp3HsKeIE/edit)<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide</div><div class="spoiler_body">Roll Result: Aeval rolled: 1d20, adding 9 to the total<br>Comment: <br>Result: 19, <br>Total: 28<br><br>Roll Result: Aeval rolled: 1d20, adding 5 to the total<br>Comment: <br>Result: 14, <br>Total: 19</div></div><br><div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/5/5e/Zeldana.jpg)</div><br>Zeldana swam with ease appearing to not watch Roga but she was watching him at every moment just in case she needed his help. She realized she was holding her breath when he lay on the water and then she smiled widely when he appeared to float. She wanted to jump and clap for him, but she waited for him to realize what he had done.<br><br>When he said: “I just swam!” THEN she jumped up and down in the water and clapped for him.<br><br>"You see!! I told you it wasn't hard!!" She swam towards him and stood in the water making sure she could. She was about 4 feet away from him. For his height, he would be able to stand even farther out, but she didn't want to take the chance just yet. "Now, come and stand by me and float!"<br><br>She stood there waiting for him. The water covered her breasts and as she stretched out her hands, the water glistened on them as if she was covered in tiny diamonds.<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [Into the Hoarwood] An Adventure in Irrisen</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>clonkertink</strong> on <strong>18-06-2017, 16:45:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Zeldana was applauding Roga when she caught a movement out of the corner of her eye. As she turned to it, she saw Roga's pants sliding their way along the rocks. A further glance told her that much of their clothing was no longer bunched together on the shore. She saw her own pants dangling from the branches of a nearby tree, and her bodice tangled in the antlers of one of the elk.<br><br>Mostly it was their clothing and armour that was missing. Their other possessions seemed to remain on the bank, with one exception: Roga's sword.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [Into the Hoarwood] An Adventure in Irrisen</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aeval</strong> on <strong>23-06-2017, 14:28:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Zeldana turned to watch the shore as she saw their clothes being carried off or thrown far. She wasn't much concerned- so Roga would see her naked. She often danced naked when there was a full moon. If anyone saw her, no one ever mentioned it. But as she took a silent inventory of their things, she realized, Roga's sword was missing. THIS would not be a good thing. She turned to the large man.<br><br>"Roga, we need to go ashore immediately. I do not know who has done this thing, but your sword is missing!" She kept her voice calm but she was anything but calm inside. What kind of mischief was this? It was not a small thing to take a man's sword. He fought by it keeping himself and others safe, he hunted by it and even won coin by it. <br><br>She turned and swam and then ran as quickly as she could to shore. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [Into the Hoarwood] An Adventure in Irrisen</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Muse</strong> on <strong>10-07-2017, 04:20:23</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/a/aa/Roga_Forge.jpg)</div><strong>Roga Forge</strong> (https://docs.google.com/document/d/128R5QqzTGk5c47ns_hYIFelmYY00mB7XC0Eve_tPJZc/edit)<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Roga's cheeks colored a little as the water teased him with fresh glimpses of Zeldana's beautiful body.&nbsp; He focused, though.&nbsp; This whole experience was exciting on so many levels.&nbsp; Roga forged through the water up to the beautiful priestess and lay back in the water, trying to float again.&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Roga jerked up and gasped when Zeldana got his attention.&nbsp; He spun to look to shore.&nbsp; Instinct set him to step protectinvely in front of Zeldana, but she was already swimming.&nbsp; <br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Roga forged forwards, slogging through the water as fast as he could.&nbsp; Then he ran up onto the shore.&nbsp; His eyes flashed about for his dagger and his backpack, needing to make sure his book of spells hadn't been taken as well.&nbsp; He snagged the dagger and backpack if he could, ignoring the wind on his chilled body, and stepped back to Zeldana.&nbsp; Did you see where they were taken?”&nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [Into the Hoarwood] An Adventure in Irrisen</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aeval</strong> on <strong>10-07-2017, 04:27:02</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Zeldana looked around on the shore- she ran to where she thought she had seen someone but nothing- not even any tracks or scent. She stood there naked but not paying any attention to her state until Roga had climbed the distance to her. When she heard his booming voice, she turned, and there he was- standing also naked- his gorgeous body shimmering with wetness and the sun shinning on it making his skin sparkle. She looked the length of him and looked down to his shaft- not full but still, she could imagine the size of him. Her skin felt hot and her cheeks, she knew they were turning red. <br><br>"Ro..uh..mmmm" she couldn't get a coherent sentence out. She turned away from him..it was better that way..she could at least think!<br><br>"No..I didn't see anyone..and I don't even see any tracks nor is there a scent left behind to help me decipher if it was animal or human. How peculiar!"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [Into the Hoarwood] An Adventure in Irrisen</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>clonkertink</strong> on <strong>15-08-2017, 06:48:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The companions' distraction must have amused <em>someone</em> because a giggle emanated from the pair of trousers still retreating across the rocks. Between titters, it seemed to say something in a chiming, sing-song voice.<br><br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">"Zeldana only"</div><div class="spoiler_body">You know the language to be Sylvan. <em>"Oh my,"</em> the pants titter. <em>"Just imagine how big he must get when he's <strong>not</strong> soaking wet in the cold."</em><br></div></div><br>Up on his perch, Hor flapped and squawked, clearly not sure what to make of these talking pants.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [Into the Hoarwood] An Adventure in Irrisen</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aeval</strong> on <strong>29-08-2017, 06:22:52</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Oh my," the pants titter. "Just imagine how big he must get when he's not soaking wet in the cold."<br><br>Zeldana gasped and then began to giggle covering her mouth quickly. She looked at Roga seeing he was not amused and knowing he was anxious about his sword.<br><br>"Ummm" she began.&nbsp; "Your pants are talking, or , I mean, whoever has taken them is talking and, umm, making comments about your (cough) masculine size when you are not wet."<br><br>Her cheeks burned as she relayed, more or less, what the pants were saying. Her nakedness didn't bother her but talking about a man's nakedness and even worse was talking about someone she knew and HIS nakedness. Oh, this day was definitely NOT turning out the way she thought it would!
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [Into the Hoarwood] An Adventure in Irrisen</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Muse</strong> on <strong>04-09-2017, 23:22:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/a/aa/Roga_Forge.jpg)</div><strong>Roga Forge</strong> (https://docs.google.com/document/d/128R5QqzTGk5c47ns_hYIFelmYY00mB7XC0Eve_tPJZc/edit)<br><br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The young man felt his eyes widen and his brow furrow a bit simultaniously.&nbsp; He looked at Zeldana again, lips moving but nothing coherent coming out... <br>&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Then Roga suddenly burst out laughing.&nbsp; He grabbed Zeldana's hand and gave it a squeeze.&nbsp; "It's her fault," he called out.&nbsp; "I can't really be cold around her."&nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [Into the Hoarwood] An Adventure in Irrisen</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>clonkertink</strong> on <strong>05-09-2017, 02:11:41</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The voice giggled, and chattered again in its musical language, as the pants continued their retreat.<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Zeldana</div><div class="spoiler_body"><em>"Aww,"</em> it said. <em>"He's cute. And chivalrous. And no doubt freezing his balls off!"</em><br></div></div><br>As if to gove Roga the lie, a sudden gust blew through the clearing, cutting away whatever warmth remained from the earlier swim. If the two didn't do something soon, there was a very real chance of frostbite.<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">OoC</div><div class="spoiler_body">Unless you have a very immediate solution to the cold weather, I will require fortitude saves (DC 15), or take 1d6 nonlethal damage.<br></div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [Into the Hoarwood] An Adventure in Irrisen</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aeval</strong> on <strong>15-09-2017, 15:00:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Zeldana thought for a bit. Could this be fairies making mischief? She would try and speak to them and see. <br><br>"My sweet Fairies," Zeldana began in their tongue. "Could we please have our clothes back?" She knew she should not bargain with them but she had no choice. "Is there something you need?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [Into the Hoarwood] An Adventure in Irrisen</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>clonkertink</strong> on <strong>16-09-2017, 02:30:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				More cheerful titters came from within the pants.<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">Zeldana</div><div class="spoiler_body"><em>"We just want you to plaaaaay with us,"</em> it said. <em>"It gets so booooooring here sometimes."</em><br><br><em>"So, if you want your clothes back, you'll have to earn them back!" it continued. "Or you could just go get them. That would be funny to watch too!"</em><br><br></div></div><br>The elk with the bodice tangled in its antlers gave its head a restless toss as it tried to free itself.<br><br><div class="spoiler_container"><div onclick="hideSecond (this);" role="button" class="spoiler_header">OoC</div><div class="spoiler_body">For the purposes of this encounter, I'm going to say each of you must recover pants, shirt, cloak and boots. Some of the items are out in the open. Some might require a little further searching. But you're probably going to start taking cold damage well before you get all of them, unless you come up with something clever.<br></div></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: [Into the Hoarwood] An Adventure in Irrisen</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Aeval</strong> on <strong>18-09-2017, 14:09:06</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She smiled as she heard their request. She looked at Roga.<br><br>"It's the Fairies. They want us to play with them- they are bored. Either we can play with them or try to just retrieve our clothes. Either way, they will have their game. Any ideas of how we can entertain them??"<br><br>She smiled up at him, bold and proud in her nakedness. She was not cold, not yet anyway. Then she had an idea.<br><br>"I wonder..if we could gather sticks and twigs and greens we could make the Fairies a little house. Perhaps they would enjoy that!" She turned to look around and began to gather the smaller branches and greens to create the structure of the little Fairy house.
			</dd>
		</dl>
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