I am working my shift attending to the patrons in Ameiko's absence. When Shalelu bardges in I hasten to her side. "By the gods what has happened too you?" I look around at the patrons for any familiar faces. I recognize a Samurai I have seen about and call out to him. "Ameiko is in the center of town! She is unconscious! Go get her before some prowlers do!" I leave Shalelu for a moment to fetch some bandages and strong ale. Returning I attempt to evaluate the damage.
Heal:
Unable to determine the cause I do my best to assist her in treating herself.
Heal check for applying bandages DC 15:
Masaru was a man of mixed descent, his heritage stemming from a Tian father and Varisian mother. He had a darker complexion that matched his dark eyes and long dark hair. His facial features were notably different from the native Varisians, giving him an exotic air. The swordsman, who had been attempting to follow in his father's footsteps, was quiet as he had been at the Rusty Dragon for the last couple of nights concerned for the proprietor. It hadn't been like her to have been gone for so long. When the elven ranger arrived he stood up as alarm washed across the tavern. His gaze darted to Shalelu and then to Tanimoto before he glanced to the door. "I'll go get her," he assured the two of them, nodding as he briskly moved outside.
He collected his sword from the door, rushing outside to find Ameiko. He dressed in the traditional garb of a Varisian, his appearance no more foreign than parts of his facial structure and the unique sword he carried on his hip. His gaze swept across the town before he started heading for the center where he expected to find an unconscious woman.
All through the tavern there was the usual hustle and bustle and I was sitting in the same corner as always, away from all the big people. The regular's recognise me, I am just under 3 feet tall with skin as white as freshly fallen snow, with my hair a dark shade of purple. I only ever seem to wear furs and they just about cover up my modesty.
I see Tanimoto working behind the bar, as usual and Masaru sitting by the bar, like he had been for the last couple of nights. Although I have never spoken with them, I have heard their names in passing. Sitting quietly I was enjoying a nice glass of milk when Shalelu falls through the door covered in blood and injuries. I am horrified to see such a wounded person and I am too scared to even move, but once she mentions that Ameiko is out in the town centre, all on her own and unconscious I jump up and run out the door without a second thought.
I don't grab anything on my way out, I just want to get to her as soon as possible. As I get to her I try to pull her away, but she is too heavy and she doesn't even budge. Then I see Masaru coming towards her, "He looks strong, he should be able to carry her inside!" "O...o...over here!"
The whole time I am with Ameiko I stay on guard and try to protect her.
Caerwyn sat at a table near the bar, waiting for the rest of his patrol to arrive. They had out searching the area around town for any sign of bandits who may have been preying on the caravans of late. While the attacks have growing more recent there has been little cause for alarm, yet, but the Sheriff wanted to find the source of the attacks before it became more than a nuisance.
As his sapphire blue eyes scanned the room, he noticed her as she stumbled into the taproom. Leaping to his feet his first thought was "By the Gods, she's been hurt." He makes his way toward before anyone, save Tani, can react.
Rushing to her side Caerwyn quickly looks at Shalelu's cuts and scrapes
Placing a hand on the elf's shoulder he listens to her tell the others about Ameiko. Looking at the exotic looking stranger Tani had singled out Caerwyn tells Shalelu quietly "Don't worry, we'll go get her."
Tani appears as a short slender and attractive woman with sky blue eyes and long silky black hair usually kept in a ponytail. Her skin is as white as snow and many would perceive her as an angel. She works as a barmaid for the Rusty Dragon. Good friends with the owner and a bit over facinated with Shalelu. Tani appears Tian but at the same time there is something not quite human.
Tanimoto is in fact a guy who dresses in drag for fun.
Masaru knelt down beside Ameiko's body, a frown tugging at his lips as almond hues sweep over her with concern. He glances to Kerri, the small Halfling taking on a defensive posture which would have made him chuckle in another situation. "Alright," he spoke, his tone low and laced with nervousness. "Let's get her back into the Dragon," he breathed, hooking his arms under her legs and back before he slowly rose, carrying her back to the establishment with the Halfling no doubt on his heels. His gaze swept the center of town one last time before he would return with Ameiko, ordering willing patrons to him.
He wasn't sure what happened but was sure that Shalelu would fill them in sooner than later. He found the most comfortable place to lay her in the tavern, glancing back to the Halfling. He knew who she was although he wouldn't necessarily count her as a friend, rather an acquaintance. "Kerri, come here and support her head," he requested, shifting so he could slip out of his vest which he offered to the Halfling to use as a makeshift pillow once folded up. ”Somebody, go find the priest or anybody who can take care of these two.” His brow knit as he looked her over once more to appraise her injuries.
The wild boy often seen around the stables whom Ameiko has employed as a stableboy for the sheer knack he has with animals approaches with the bandages. Mistress Shalelu, your hurt. Allow me to tend those wounds for you.
Hmm, He says, looking at the at the wounds, the various bruising and scraps and cuts and gashes, Out hunting goblins again? He finishes wrapping the lacerations and clasps her shoulder and with a firm squeeze and a soft word he sets out to help Ameiko in the town center.
To Shalelu it feels as if a dog is licking their wounds, soothing the pain
As Masaru picks up Ameiko's unconscious body I feel relieved, but not enough to lower my guard. I follow Masaru closely still keeping an eye out for any sign of what could have hurt Ameiko and Shalelu this much.
Once back in the "Rusty Dragon" I remain by Ameiko's side. When Masaru requests that I support her head, I do it immediately. When Masaru asks somebody to go and get a priest, I remain by Ameiko's side. I look up at Masaru and whisper, "Thank-you."
"If she recovers from this, I will owe this big-folk greatly. But first off, let her recover ... Ancestors help her."
I look back down at Ameiko and quietly whisper a few words in a foreign tongue, seemingly to myself, "zezhuanth iri, petranas origato sia thurirl lleisgar vur zhin mojka de nomenoi ezoukeic."
Back in the Rusty Dragon having finished with bandaging Shalelu. The Stableboy sees his employer in worse shape than his mentor, and truth be told he has always had a crush on the both of them. Without hesitation he clears of a table in a hurry and has the others set Ameiko on the table. He gets a bowl and places it on the table as well. Godfrey immediately proceeds to cleaning of the wounds and banadaging them up after taking a moment to what appears to do is pray.
I and the stable boy finish with Shalalu and Ameiko is brought in.
I sigh in distress and look at the stair. "I will prepare rooms for them. Quickly. Bring the two of them with." I head over behind the counter and fetch the keys to a large unoccupied two bed room. Quickly leading whoever is carrying the two girls to the room. I make sure the beds are fit and await the carriers to lay the girls down.
Once they are down I find two basins and rags. I hand one to the stableboy. "Here clean up Ameiko and I will clean Shalelu. The rest of you. Find that creepy old woman who has been slinking about these parts. Heard she can heal magically. And someone else fetch the sheriff please."
I wait for response.
I follow Ameiko up the stairs with everybody else, making sure to be close behind Masaru. Once she is laid out on the bed I stand in the corner trying not to get in the way, when Tanimoto says about someone going to get a healing woman I move towards the door. But stop when Masaru says that Tanimoto and I should keep an eye on them.
With that I move over to Godfrey and take his basin and rag and get to cleaning up Ameiko. Once Masaru and Godfrey have left the room I look over to Tanimoto while wiping off some dirt of Ameiko's brow. "So, he doesn't know your a man yet? Well to be fair, I too was fooled when I first saw you."
I bend down to the basin and dunk the rag into the water, where I pull it out and ring it dry, as much as possible. Before starting to clean Ameiko's hand and arms.
Even when Shalelu tries to keep me away I respond sternly. "Come now your injuries need to be cleaned. I respect your abilities but now is not the time to be stubborn."
When Koya and the sheriff show I back off a bit.
I pretend like Koya isn't talking to me when she tells the "men" to leave the room. I try and stay close to Shalelu with genuine concern.
Would Koya find my crossdressing offensive? Or should I go with the prissy young girl offense with her. Just trying to justify me and Koya's distain.
Masaru obliged the old seer, previously having recommended propriety for Ameiko. He was a man who tried to follow a code he didn't quite understand, something he managed to find in his father's journal regarding values of compassion, courage, courtesy, duty, honesty, honor, and sincerity. He nodded to Koya, thanking her in a soft voice before he would step out, concern written clearly on his features as he began to fail masking his feelings. He leaned back against the wall in the hall as he waited. He dipped his head and rubbed his brow. Deep down he was sure that she would pull through but all the same he was concerned for her health. He looked to Godrey and glanced down the hall as commotion was heard from downstairs.
"Should we go see what the guards are musing about?" He was indecisive on whether to wait on news of Ameiko's recover or be more vigilant in the light of the recent attack. By Shalelu's telling the goblins were causing trouble and given the circumstance, it could mean they represented a threat to the village. She's in good hands, he assured himself, nodding before he glanced back to Godrey. "I'll see if the sheriff and the guard needs any help, let them know if you stay here." He then quickly took to the stair off to assist in whatever means he could.
He met up with Caerwyn whom he knew from the guard, determination taking over his almond hues. "Do you know what else is going on here?"
Okies. Little princess who is rude to granny coming up. Also I am assumed to take 20 on my disguise in the morning for 28 total, so It would simply be mannerism and voice control rather than appearance to hide. Also my training has aided my in controlling my hormones not to mention the situation doesn't merit that behavior or way of thinking.
Disguise mannerisms and control tone of voice. Take 10 for an 18 total
I say nothing merely stand quietly by with the water basin watch with sincere concern. Shalelu may be the object of my desire but the situation is too dire to think of anything other than her health.
I am ready to offer assistance if needed.
Once Koya came downstairs and announced that both Shalelu and Ameiko were recovering, he looked relieved. "Good, he breathed, glancing to Caerwyn. He would have to allow his inquiring mind to wait and given his confidence in the militia and the sheriff's capability, he excused himself so he could check in on the two women. He proceeded upstairs once more, maintaining his composure by taking a casual stride. The Varisian man with Tian heritage wheeled into the room after giving a light knock to announced his presence. He offered a faint smile, seeing Ameiko conscious. He looked to Kerri who was no doubt pleased as well with her good health.
"Do you need anything, Shalelu?"
He pulled up a chair between their beds, looking to the elven ranger with as much concern as he did Ameiko. He respected her as a warrior and was thankful for her having saved Ameiko's life. His eyes drifted to the focus of his concerns shortly after, settling his hands in his lap. "Can I get you anything? Kerri and I brought you in, you were in pretty rough shape."
After Koya leaves I take my place at Shalelu's side. "Geez girl trying to help you is lime trying to give a cat a bath. Though I understand. I wouldn't sit still if that old crone was trying to strip me too. You really need to accept help more often. You give so much, learn to accept some in return."
When Marasu ask what he can do I look over at him. "Bring some hot water and my tea kit. I will make them some tea. She shouldn't be drinking any booze. Also there is stew staying warm on the stove. I give him directions to where I keep my stash.
As the old lady asks the men to leave, I look up slightly when Tani doesn't leave but don't say anything. At the sight of Ameiko's burns a tear wells up in my eyes, but I wipe them away quickly. When I see her burns start to disappear before my very eyes, I look shocked and amazed.
"ini wer zezhuanth iri, svabol ui shinaltir?"
Once the old lady is leaving I call out behind her, "Thank-you." Turning my attention back to Ameiko, "Your awake, thank the Ancestors! You may not like it, but the old lady said you have to stay in bed and I intend to make sure you abide by her ruling, she obviously knows what she is talking about."
I walk around to Masaru, stand in front of him, get onto my hands and knee's and lower my head "Thank-you again, I owe you a debt." After I have finished speaking I get back up and walk back beside Ameiko.
Godfrey having been lost in the fray of all the commotion approaches Tani when s/he is making tea, leans over their shoulder and says, Really, you must be more appreciative of mother. Koya raised me for the past 5 years. She has been all I have known. Besides Sandru might get upset with you too!
Having said his piece Godfrey bounds of taking the stairs two sometimes three at a time. Bursting into the room on the bed as close to Shalelu as possible. Now, how many times have I told you that if you need help hunting those nasty little beasts, I'm your man. You keep running off without me and I might just take that as you trying to avoid me. He says with a wink and a smile
He looks over at Ameiko, So is Ameiko going to be okay?
When Shalelu teases me I simply giggle and whisper back. " When you were tending me you spent a bit of extra time "examining" my injuries. So this is just a bit of me returning the favor."
The fox scolds me and I simply roll my eyes. "doesn't mean she isn't creepy or crabby."
To tani, True
Masaru regards Shalelu with a smirk, chuckling as her stomach growled. He was sure that they were all hungry given the fact that their dinners were interrupted by the series of events. He glanced to Tanimoto and then back to the elf, offering a wink before he glanced back to Ameiko as she took his hand. He felt the hair on the back of his neck standing up and his cheeks flush ever so slightly. "You're welcome, he simply spoke, rising then as he would fulfill his offer to Shalelu. He was sure that the woman who just stirred butterflies in his stomach could use the tea the barmaid spoke of.
When Kerri prostrated herself before him he didn't know what to say, biting his lower lip and smiling nervously. "Please, it's nothing," he assured the Halfing. "You would do the same for another, given the circumstance." He inclined his head to the proprietor, smiled to Kerri and then took his leave.
Downstairs he would follow the barmaid's instruction, setting a kettle to boil some water and finding her tea kit she spoke of. As the water boiled he would find something for Shalelu to eat, knowing she could manage something harder. Ameiko likely needed a soup, however, and looked in the kitchen and stores for something along those lines. Despite how Tanimoto felt, he would find the ale on tap and fill up a flask to sneak to their ranger friend. He pocketed the item and got bowls, spoons, plates, and a tray together. And then he waited... The water had to boil after all.
As the commotion of the evening died down he found himself returning upstairs with a tray. He was thankful the cooks already had a few items simmering for their usual patrons. He came in and set the tray on the table between the beds. On the tray was a steaming kettle, two empty cups, two bowls of steaming soup (noodles in a hot broth with an exotic taste), two spoons, and dinner cloths. He offered the women the bowls with the cloths beneath them, handing them spoons afterwards. While Tanimoto exchanged with Godfrey, he slipped the flask from his pocket under her blanket with a smile. He was sure if necessary -- although he doubted it -- both had a willing assistant if they had trouble eating and drinking. Kerri as the concerned protector would no doubt would help Ameiko.
"She'll be fine," Masaru assured Godfrey. He rolled his knuckles into his hands, feeling notably outgoing. He carried a steady smile and moved to take a seat away from the women, looking outside through the window.
Caerwyn follows Masaru out of the Rusty Dragon and into the town square. There he spots Ameiko's unconscious form with a small pale halfling hovering about, as if standing guard.
As Masaru effortlessly picks up Ameiko, Caerwyn gives him a nod "I'll meet you back at the inn, I want to see what's got the Guardsmen so riled up."
As Caerwyn reenters the Dragon the others have taken Ameiko and Shalelu upstairs. As his eyes scan the common room he notices Masaru heading toward him. In response to his question he admits "The recent raids on the caravans between here and Magnimar have been carried out by goblins. Apparently they've acquired a stash of fireworks which they use to set the wagons ablaze, then attack in the confusion of trying to put the fires out."
He follows the warrior up the stairs, helping carry the tray of food and drinks. As his eyes alight on Shalelu a look of concern crosses his face before he says in elvish "De réir na réaltaí, cuma mhaith leat bás a théitear os a chionn."
As Koya renders her prognosis, Caerwyn nods "Thank you, Lady Koya. I owe you a deep debt of gratitude." Turning to the others scattered about the room he says "If you'll excuse me, the Sheriff has arrived and I think I need to be there to hear what he has to say" and with that he bows low and exits the room.
I look over to Shalelu, "U...u...umm, you s...s...shouldn't g...g...get out of bed or that s...s...scary lady m...m...might come back and shout at y...y...you."' There is an obvious fear in my voice, it is obvious I don't like getting in other peoples way. Especially tall folk. When she starts coughing I look petrified, like I expect her to collapse. But once the fit is over I feel relieved and it shows on my face.
I lean in close to Ameiko and whisper softly into her ear, "Don't you try to get up too! So is the soup nice, it smells it? Anyway what were you doing to warrant being attacked by Goblins? You are lucky that Shalelu was there to fight them off of you. You know you could have asked me for help, I would have given it to you gladly."
I place a hand on my belly as it gives a silent rumble, stand up right and collect a chair to sit beside her as she eats her soup. "Would either of you like some bread with that soup? I can go downstairs to get some, if I am allowed into your kitchen?"'
@ Keri I wouldn't worry about Koya too much, she's been nothing but nice to me over the past couple years. Raised me much like a son. Even taught me about Desna and stuff. Just don't make remarks about her age and you'll be fine
With Godfrey peering out the window at the group that's gathered around the sheriff, he catches the tail end of Ameiko's statement. What were you looking for out there? Maybe I could go fetch it for you if the reward were right. He says with a coy half smile.
I look to Godfrey, "Who is Desna? So don't tell the old person that she's old?" I lean in close to Ameiko and whisper into her ear, "Why, does she not know?" I let out a quiet, girlish giggle. I look back up to Godfrey again, "Don't worry I won't insult her, she is too scary for that."
I look down at my feet and twiddle my thumbs when I get called a mouse, but am happy that she decides to climb back into bed.
I look to Ameiko, "If you like I could put some of your spices in, I have been cooking for quite a while and think I get it just as you like?" At the sight of Ameiko in pain due to the bowl on her stomach, I grab the bowl quickly and hold it at a comfortable height for her. "I won't ask you to explain yourself any more, a private matter should remain private. If you tell me where to get the bread I can get it, means I can grab my stuff while I am down there too. I am getting a little hungry, so I would be saving 2 Hin's with 1 journey."
Desna, is a goddess that watches over us when we cannot. She protects you in your dreams and is the Goddess of Travelers, like myself. Though I would pay homage to her I am not of her devout. I give all the gods the respect they deserve but I follow the green and the guidance of the kami
At the conclusion of the chief's speech Godfrey smirks and says Well if you ladies don't need me hear anymore, I think I'm going downstairs or maybe to the stables, or the forests. I haven't decided yet. Ah well, I got a big day ahead of me tomorrow goblin hunting.
"I don't know about this Desna or this Kami ... but I have the Ancestors keeping me safe. They help me in times of need and are always here for me, talking with me. So I know of what you mean, Mr ... ?"
I get up gracefully and take my leave of the room. Once out of the room I run down the hall and stairs, stopping when I near the bottom. As soon as I see all the usual patrons I quickly dart into my usual seat, grab my bag and run back up stairs. Giving a gentle knock on the door before I gracefully walk back in. Sitting on my chair, I place my bag beside me and reach in. Pulling out a wrapped bundle, I open it carefully and inside is a small meal consisting of Grilled fish, Roasted vegetables and dried fruits. I reach back into my bag and pull out another bag, this one a lot smaller. I put my thumb and fore-finger inside and pull out a small pinch of finely cut wild herbs, which I sprinkle onto my food. I then begin to eat the food slowly, hoping that no-body is watching me. The smell of the food is quite strong, but not the smell of fish, it smells more fruity and slightly smoky.
I look up to Ameiko in between bites, swallowing a small mouthful I hold up my bag of herbs. "Would you like to try some of these with your soup?"
ah hahaha, no it's not just a kami, it's the kami, multiple entities. They are spirits of sorts. And call me Godfrey.
I stop eating briefly and look up towards this Godfrey, "So the Ancestors are like your Kami? Well Godfrey, I am Kerri. Goblin hunting, sounds dangerous, but if any of them make it here they will regret hurting my friend! Kill some for me will you? Just don't get yourself hurt."
I do my best to make sure that Shalelu stays in bed. "Don't make me tie you down girl. I am good with knots." I give her a mischievous wink.
When Shalelu is in bread and food asked for, I remind everyone "Marasu already brought some soup and bread so we are good. Gadfrey, did you here what the Sheriff was saying at all?"[/b]
I do apologize that I forgot to specify that there would be enough food to snack.
Ah but certainly you have talents as well Kerri, perhaps you would be willing to go with me if it were a means for protecting your friends?
He then turns to Tani, still a bit taken back by the person, after all in the wilderness a person does not hide who they are but then again maybe he should heed that lesson himself Yep, goblin hunting starts tomorrow, that and something about the sheriff buying a round.
I hold up some of my dried fruit, "Anyone care to try a dried fruit? Not as nice as fresh, but they are good for travelling. How about you Tani? After all I think you will have a harder time keeping Shalelu in bed than I will with Ameiko." I tilt my head as if trying to listen to something, "The Sheriff was saying something?! That would explain why there were so many people downstairs, I wasn't expecting that many and it gave me quite a fright."
I look over to Godfrey, "I would do anything to protect my friends, even if the Ancestors don't like the idea. They would still help me though ... I hope."
I pause for a moment. Suddenly I gasp putting my hands on either side of my head. "By the gods no one is running the inn." I leap to my feet and race to the door turning back I announce "Don't let Shalelu out of that bed. I am interested in the goblin hunting but we'll discuss that tomorrow. Right now I have an inn to run"
I race downstairs and proceed to serve our now riled up customers for the rest of the night.
If you work for the inn then you would know of Tani's lifestyle. Best you can tell he really likes girls a lot. So much so that he dresses the part. You don't know the real reason but you are also aware Tani was born and raised in Minkai.
As the sheriff finishes his speech Caerwyn thinks to himself "Uh oh, this could cause more trouble than it'll solve. A bunch of locals traipsing through the swamps, getting lost or worse will just mean more work for me and the other patrols." rubbing his hand absently across his chin he continues his line of thought "Still a couple of extra silver wouldn't hurt. A guardsman's pay never seems to go far enough."
As the crowd begins jostling him around, Caerwyn pull out his baton and brings it down on the table with a loud CRACK. There will be more than enough gobbo's to go around. The little buggers breed like rats. No need for anyone to get hurt before they get the chance, now is there?" As Tani returns to the common room Caerwyn will appraoch her and ask "Are the ladies alright? Is there anything else they'll need tonight?" At her reassuances, he'll order a round of drinks from her for him and his men before returning to the barracks for the night "It's going to be an early, and busy, day tomorrow for sure" he mutters to himself as he heads out the door
Masaru quietly remained by the window and between what he could hear from where he sat and the others present, he figured out what was going on. "A bounty," he mused, drawing his sword -- sheath and all -- across his lap. It would be a good oppurtunity to put silver into his pocket and sharpen his skill with the sword. He grinned a bit, his thoughts on his father. No doubt he likely took on bounties, hunting down people and creatures alike to test his skill. He had even took a warrior's pilgrimage across the world in pursuit of refining his skill, challenging Aldori swordlords and every man with a blade across the Inner Sea.
He approached Ameiko with Kerri at her bedside. Kerri had spoken of taking part in the hunt as well as the others present. "What do you think, Kerri? Want to go collect the ears of those wretched creatures? He offered a grin as he adjusted that foreign blade at his hip and glanced over to Ameiko who appeared to be regaining her strength slowly.
His almond gaze shifted to the proprieter, declaring in a low tone, "We'll get them back, Ameiko. Their insolence will not go unpunished."
Seeing Masaru walk over towards Ameiko and I, adjusting his blade, while looking over Ameiko I stand protectively in front of her. "I would like to get them back for what they have done her Ameiko, but the idea of collecting their ears, that is just revolting. If you want the ears so badly, you can have the ones off of the critters that the Ancestors and I slay. Does that sound good to you?"
I look up at the tall man in thought, "What a strange biggen's, wanting to collect Goblin ears. Very strange indeed."
The man simply laughed, shaking his head slowly as he looked down to Kerri. "The ears are the proof of our kills," Masaru explained, thinking that she had misunderstood his intent. "For every ear the sheriff will give us... What, two silvers? A fair bounty to line any man's purse. It should be easier than skipping stones."