John when you arrive at your mentor's home he's in the middle of training session. His back is to you the entire time. He has three new recruits, he criticizes with an even tone. quickly correcting the shield position. He looks at the class, "Continue...John, come in and show the proper shield technique."
One of the students ask "How did you know there was someone behind you?" Decan responds, "All Hellknights of the Scrouge know who has their back."
Gerald smiles when you arrive at the work. He waves you into his large office, "How was the party, who was present? Any good gossip? Was the gluttonous swine still breathing when you left?" He smirks, obviously contemplating the joys of a dead mayor.
The mayor was still breathing, although like most others he was hung over from all the piles of food, liquer and drugged mice.
Gerald arched an eye brow at that.
Andrea leaned back, looking a little exhusted.The guest ist was very exensive, Eirtien Oberigo, Sascar Tilernos and and even Chammady Drovenage were the most notable personages.
Plenty of gossip as well, unfortunatly I learned that they pretty much liked talking about themselves and got even more incoherant as the evening went on, but I did enjoy myself and achieved the dubious honor of eating a live snake so I guess I have achieved a new height..or low. Andrea is somewhat ironic/joking when she says this.
Andrea also slides over the ivory box tha has been wrapped in a soft cloth. A small gift we recieved that I wish to convert into something more liquid, there will be some books as well after Orsin has finished looking through them sicne he loves to read.
Gerald chuckles at Andrea's comment about eating a snake." Let's hope it doesn't wiggle on the way out." He examines the box, "Sure this have value, it may make a lovely snuff box."
"Do you have any activities planned?"
After the little meeting, Lucrezia heads back over to the Grotto. Afer all that "high class" food and drink, I could really go for some plain ole stew and ale for lunch. Maybe that will help to settle my stomach, it's been feeling a bit queasy. Of course the trip through all that foul smelling muck didn't help any.
When Lucrezia enters the main tavern room, she's treated to the assault that Orn calls a hug and a strange elf. Managing a little laugh with the air left in her lungs, she returns the hug before he lets go so she can catch her breath again. "Good morning Orn, wanna have some lunch with me and catch me up on anything I've missed the past couple days? You can't imagine the crap those noble people call food and I am just dieing to eat something normal."
As the lanky elf asks that last question, Lucrezia assumes that she'd been asking for room and board before she entered. "Yep, for an extra silver you can get some hot sent up to your room." That comment gives Lucrezia pause for a thought. "Hey Orn, with business picking up, I wonder if Lourdou could be talked into adding a proper bathing room and maybe a small steamhouse." Goodness knows that would be wonderful to have, bet the customers would appreciate too. I know the girls certainly would...
Lucrezia turns as she catches sight of Raenny bringing out clean mugs to set behind the bar. "Raenny, if you got a minute I'd like you to bring out a couple bowls of whatever your mom's got cooked up for the lunch menu back there." Looking over t Sunny, she'll add: "The food here is simple fare, but well cooked if your deciding whether or not to take your meals here."
Lucrezia will then take a seat at the nearest empty table and surveys the room, noting a small group of people already playing cards and several dockworkers who usually grab their lunch here. Most the girls are probably still sleeping in from their late night work. I'm sure I'll see 'em later.
As Faelyn rakes the booty from the last hand, he catches a view of the lovely half elf entering the tavern and calling out to the Half Orc bouncer. Faelyn catches her eye and nods with a sly smile. And the scenery continues to improve.
Turning his attention back to the table, he slides one deck of cards to the side and picks up a harrow deck. He shuffles the new deck dexterously with one hand as he extends the other arm down so Rakka can climb up into his sleeve, Maybe a game of Harrow's Fortune fellas?
Gerald chuckles at Andrea's comment about eating a snake." Let's hope it doesn't wiggle on the way out." He examines the box, "Sure this have value, it may make a lovely snuff box."
"Do you have any activities planned?"
A nice little tea party with Lady Grulios, she wasn't invited to the Manor so I will be meeting with her soon. I do believe she will be able to provide some oppurtunties for us in the future. As for others? Andrea shrugs a little. A bit uncertain, It depends on what they wish to do. Right now they are recovering as well.
After chatting some, Andrea politley take sher leave and returns to work.
Orn pulls ups two chairs next the table with the gamblers for Lucrezia and himself. You over hear and elf ask, "Maybe a game of Harrow's Fortune fellas?" then the scraping of a couple chairs as grumbling gamblers get up cursing under their breath. One human sneers, "Its like you'vegots amirroron thedeck" The words flowing together with few pauses.
Orn's upper lip snarls as he places a meaty hand on the human's shoulder, "Problem...Klarik? Learn ti play better." The dark reddish black eyes of the half-orc looks menacingly at Faelyn.
Raenny stops near the table glancing between Orn, Klarik and Faelyn. She is holding her tray of stew and crusty bread. her eyes finally settle on Lucrezia.
Suddenly there is loud voice from behind the bar, "So missy ye be staying 'ere long," the jovial bartender chortles, his attention at Sunny. 'I'm Silas, that me daughter Raenny if ye need anything she can fetch it fer ya. My bedder half is the cook...makes amean stew and the best crusty bread in Westcrown...'er name be Cerra. We live on da property, if ye need anything...anything at all, ye 'ere." His left hand is constantly wiping and cleaning as he talks, his brown eyes glancing at the nearby situation.
"Whatbe ya name lass? That over there be Lucrezia she provides some security, not employed on 'er back like most da udders 'ere" he leans in a whispers but not to softly, 'She and Orn 'ave a thing goin' one..'bout time too... if ya ask us 'ere a the Grotto.
Faelyn flashes Orn a nervous smile then turns his attention to Klarik. Just a string of luck my good man. That tis all.
He flips cards to the remaining players and then leans back in his chair. To no one in particular: You know...there are talented people in this city who can read your fortune with these cards.
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Orsin the book entitled "Osirion Journey Book" is a fascinating account of the early history of Osirion. I assume you have a comprehend language spell.
The book begins with an accounting of the Founding of Ancient Osirion in c.-3470 and through the height of Osirion in c.-3000 under the reign of God-Kings and continues through -1498 The Four Pharoahs of Ascension joining forces to rule Osirion, initiating the empire's Second Age. There is an accounting during -1452 of the Armies of the Four Pharaohs break the Tekritanin League, absorbing some member city-states and razing others but by -1431 the decline begins. The book ends in -841 with Osirion failing to replace the assassinated governor of Thuvia, effectively ceding the province to barbarism. The book ends oddly with statement "So my life and journey ends. Talbert the Wanderer.
Having followed Orn over to the table to make sure no brawl was about to break out, Lucrezia can't help but smirk at the elf's comment on fortune reading. "I don't suppose you're one of those that can read people's fortunes?"
Faelyn stands as the Half Elf approaches. Gentlemen...where are your manners? He sits back down and answers the question. I may dabble in the arcane a bit. May I buy you two a drink?
So, I can actually cast comprehend languages, but with my remaining spell slots and scroll, I'll only be able to squeeze out 3 and half hours of literacy. Orsin reads the book for as long as he can, deciding to finish it off the next day. Buying scrolls would be impractical, given their 10 minute duration.
After several hours of reading, Orsin discretely exchanges the Osirion journey book for the first volume of the Libra Malfactum. He continues to drink his coffee in relative quiet, sneaking glances up at Talbard's across the street every so often.
Orn hesitates then pulls the chair out. Can't throttle Mr Lourdou's card partner. He lets a guttural groan out as he waits for Lucrezia's to sit down.
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Orsin as you begin to read the Libra Malfactum and you have feeling of uneasiness overcome you. You are reading a manuscript prepared by Mayor Dargentu Vheed himself.
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Orsin is...intrigued. The idea of a dangerous set of books captures his interest and he's strongly considering the task of undertaking study of the manuals. He puts the volume away for the time being, but as I said, he's definitely intrigued...
Towards the end of the workday Fiosa shows up at the moneymonger's exchange. She is wearing new tight skimpy leathers, her hair and facepaint is freshly done; she has with her little Emily, who is likewise cleaned up wearing a yellow dress. Two bright smiles greet you. Emily rus and dives into your arms.
"Care for dinner company? She glows. "After dinner Mathalen has agreed to take Emily for evening."
Andrea kneels down and hugs Emily, kissing her forehead and ruffling her hair lightly. Such a pretty dress Emily. Andera pulls in Fiosa for a more tender kiss, giving her lip a little nibble.
Yes indeed, I'm just about to get off work. I can get into my evening clothes and we can have some dinner, I cannot tell you much a simple bowl of stew looks right now after what I had to enfure at the Mayor's
Andrea adjusts Emily's collar and then closes up her station for a night on the town, stopping by her apartment for a quick change.
Andrea points out the light swirl on the door to their residance, a light glow emitting as her fingertip traces over it. This here is something I did to help keep us safe. Andrea explains to both Fiosa and Emily. It will whistle and summon dogs in case bad people try to break in. Just say 'Oasis' as our secret password and you can come in with no problems.
Orsin as you are having your seventh cup of coffee there is a pleasant raspy voice, "So you've been hiding from me since you've returned...a girl could get feeling that you are up to something."
Lucrezia sits down with a little shrug. "Who am I to turn down a free drink."
Faelyn notices the guttural groan and suddenly realizes the dynamic between the half Orc and half elf. Best not push my luck.
Raenny...Please bring these two some fine Chelaxian Pepper Whiskey. Pointing to the bouncers. They are one of the reasons that this is such a fine and safe establishment.
Klarik plays two cards and Faelyn's smirk turns into a frown. The Fiend and the Crows... It is as if he is reading the cards while playing. He looks around the tavern for trouble.
Perception:
Empatheticly to his familiar: Keep your eyes open. There will be murder this evening.
Orsin jumps a little at Amaya's unexpected arrival.
"I-uh-hello..." Orsin sputters, wiping coffee from the corner of his mouth. He flashes a bright, white smile at the glassblower as she leans forward, her low-cut blouse leaving little to the imagination.
"I'm not up to anything. Downtime is more like it, in fact."
He scoots across the two-person couch he's been lounging on, offering her a place beside him before continuing.
"I apologize for having been so quiet at the safehouse this morning. My stomach has been rather unsettled as of lately. How have you been?"
Orn remains quite as Lucrezia and Faelyn talk. Klarik gets up calling it a day.
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Amaya smiles seductively, "You could take me to a lite dinner and soft bottle of wine. I'm sure I could soothe your tummy." She touches the back of Orsin's hand softly letting her fingers glide.
Andrea will make her way to The Grotto with Fiosa and Emily.(It still is a nice tavern and place to eat during the daylight hours.) Stepping in, she sees Lucrezia, Orn and a few others around a table.
Andrea waves over to Lucrezia. Well hey there, can we join you for dinner. She nods to the other members of the table, noting the elf and his cards.
Orn smiles with his one broken tusk seeing Emily, he hops up and pulls a second table together along with chairs.
"Have a seat ladies."
Lucrezia waves Raelynn over. "Rae, could you bring us all some of that stew your momma's got simmering, some fresh bread and a pitcher of ale? Oh, and a glass of water." The last is said with a glance to Emily. "And could you ask her what she's got whipped up for a desert?"
I think perhaps some milk would be good for Emily.
Emily made a face.
Don't pout, milk gives us strong teeth. Andrea tucks a napkin under Emily's chin.
Stew and bread. Mm..potatoes and gravy all cooked up together and a cool tankard of ale. Andrea smacks her lips. I hope you stomach is all settled from the last few nights Lucrezia, I had indigestion for hours.
Faelyn stands again as the three ladies show up. By all means, please join us...Gentlemen, this game is over. He throws his cards down as he sits. I fold.
Raenny...a round of stew, bread, and drinks for the table. He stacks his winnings and pushes them over to the side of the table to pay for the table's food and drinks.
Andrea nods. Why hello, I see you are aquainted? Andrea indicates Lucrezia and Orn.
"That's why I'm here for a nice, normal meal with a perfectly ordinary ale. I wouldn't be able to stomach anything else. Though I am hoping for at least a nice bread pudding with raisins. Still a perfectly ordinary desert though. Nothing like the weird stuff at that party."
He looks up at Andrea and flips a card from the discard pile. Interesting...the owl...Does she use her needle to bind or pick apart?
We have just met. I know Alphonse thinks highly of them.
"I don't believe we've had a formal introduction though. Care to introduce yourself and then we'll do the same?" I know I've seen him playing cards with Loredou. Can't quite remember his name though.
About an hour later Mathalen walks in to gather up Emily. Shaking her head, Of course, you bring her to ...' her words trail off. "Yeh, yeh the foods good I know." After a deep breath, "She'll be fine...enjoy yourselves and sleep in."
Pleased to meet you, I am Andrea and this is Fiosa and Emily. I am a friend of Lucrezia. Andrea settles down and reaches for some ale when it is served, savoring the rich flabor.
Ah, that hit the spot.
About an hour later Mathalen walks in to gather up Emily. Shaking her head, Of course, you bring her to ...' her words trail off. "Yeh, yeh the foods good I know." After a deep breath, "She'll be fine...enjoy yourselves and sleep in."
Andrea blushed and giggled. Reaching over, Andrea kisses Emily's forehead. Now be a good girl for Mathalen. Andrea lets Fiosa peck Emily's forehead and waves as the little girl is led off.
Orsin lets his hand rest underneath Amaya's for a brief moment before taking it away.
"I'm not sure that's such a good idea," Orsin replies, sighing heavily. "You're a very sweet and very beautiful girl, Amaya, but I don't know if I can give you the kind of attention you deserve. My heart was wounded and something has festered within it for some time now. Maybe I could love you someday, but...I don't think that day is today."
The bard's eyes meet the glassblower's gaze, twinkling sympathetically.
"I'm, uh... I'm sorry."
I am Faelyn Sindrel. He bows his head respectfully at the half elven lady being careful not to anger the large half orc. I work at Talbard's Wonderous Items. It is a small, local arcane shop. I visit the Grotto occasionally, but I am usually playing cards with Alphones in the back room. He laces his fingers and puts his hands behind his head. He says he likes winning my money. He adds playfully.
Good evening Andrea, Fiosa, and Emily. Very nice to meet all of you.
Andrea, pleased to meet you. I work at the Westcrown Exchange, rather popular place for those with lots of money. Andrea breaks off some bread and dips it into the stew. The Grotto is one of my favorite dining establishments. Good simple fair and a quiet table makes a good evening.
Lucrezia laughs. "Lourdou like winning anyones money. My name is Lucrezia and this is Orn."
She smiles, "That's a first." There is that uncomfortable pregnant pause then she slides off the leather couch. "I slither very well." her hands wave towards herself. "Enjoy your book and your evening." She turns and departs.
Looking around (to Andrea)I would have to say it is growing on me as well. Are you a banker by trade?
Lucrezia laughs. "Lourdou like winning anyones money. My name is Lucrezia and this is Orn."
Well met Lucrezia... Pauses and nods Orn
He looks at Lucrezia and flips another card from the harrow deck. The Keep...quit, immovable strength...interesting.
You can say that. I handle money changing and other accounts and various other banking duties, sometimes arranging sales of valuable items as well.
If you ever need a place to keep your finds and perhaps exchange valuable items for cash, I can help you with that.
Orsin watches Amaya leave, sighing in disappointment as she disappears from you. So much for getting the girl, Bessatte.
Orsin puts away his reading, anxious from the unpleasantness with Amaya and the countless cups of coffee. He knows he can't go to the safehouse, where the Tien girl would surely be and the isolation of his apartment brooks no invitation either. He settles on a trip to The Grotto where he's likely to find a soothing atmosphere and a company in equal abundance.