With a look of perplexity, Theo walks over to the barkeep.
Tugging on his apron, the small gnome smiles.
Tableforthree,please.
He looks around.
Perhaps,somethingbythefireplace.
"Or somewhere that is at least a little quiet," Eldren adds. "Where we can talk without having to shout. Well, too much," he continues with a smile, his eyes taking in the place and its staff and patrons.
8th Day of Autumn Twilight - 1030 PC - Tarsis the Beautiful
Falseed shrugs, "Ah well. I suppose it is our lot to wander the town until we do find it then!"
He begins to guide the wagon closer into the city looking for the Red Dragon Inn.
8th Day of Autumn Twilight - 1030 PC - Tarsis the Beautiful
"Keep an eye out for any such changes. I would be happy to keep a close watch on you as well..."
She moves in to kiss you, somewhat awkwardly.
8th Day of Autumn Twilight - 1030 PC - Tarsis the Beautiful
The man nods to Theo, it seems he is not the first Gnome the man has encountered. He takes Eldren's suggestion into account placing you at the back of the common room near a window that faces the street.
Rather quickly, a middle aged human woman approaches wearing an apron and carying a pitcher of beer, "What'll it be my friends?"
8th Day of Autumn Twilight - 1030 PC - Tarsis the Beautiful
As they begin to move deeper into the town, Gaurm approaches a patrolling city watchman, "Excuse me, can you please direct me to the Red Dragon Inn?"
Red, noticing the stares and general unpleasant attitude towards him and the group doesn't approach anyone and just keeps a lookout for this Inn everyone spoke of.
The Silvanesti responds to the half-elf's inquiry It will be very difficult if not impossible to ask any in either of the elven delegations to accept the help of the wizard, not because he is a wizard but because of the color of the robes he wears. We have a grand and glorious history of magical traditions, older even than the Towers, however, elves can only don the White Robes of Solinari, any thing else and they are branded as dark elves, much more in the Silvanetsi culture.
"I...," Eldren begins to order when his eyes catch a group as strange as any moving through town. A pair of quite possibly half-ogres alongside a minotaur -already an odd combination to be sure- and another robed figure that is far from human or elf or dwarf themselves. Add to that the wagon and the one driving it and the mage's interest and curiosity are certainly piqued. Still, he finds himself without the time to process it, because as soon as he turns back to the waitress, once again his order is cut short.
'The Black Robe is casting something,' he ponders as he narrows his eyes to get a better look at the arcane gestures in an attempt to determine what spell it is. 'Some enchantment perhaps, looking to bend the poor man to his will?' Even before he can ascertain what it is, the look of distaste on his face is plain to see.
"Wine for me," he finally says, "and maybe something to accompany it? I must admit I could do with some food myself."
Brogg does his best to seem unassuming, which is of course a bit tricky given his size. For the most part he stays near Falseed, looking mostly like he's bodyguarding the human.
Zsar keeps his head down, but tries to help in his own way,
Full attention on the waitress, Theo smiles warmly.
Yes, thank you., he slowly answers.
I would like a pint of beer, if you please. Perhaps, some lamb stew, or some such?
8th Day of Autumn Twilight - 1030 PC - Tarsis the Beautiful
The Captain of the patrol seems taken aback by Gaurm's eloquent question, "Certainly I can help you big fella! Geez, we should be offerin' you a job.
Anyways, you went too far".
He nods at Brogg and points the other way directing you where to go.
8th Day of Autumn Twilight - 1030 PC - Tarsis the Beautiful
As you near the ship Remy stops looking a bit concerned, "Do we look for another Inn then or will you take this offer to the Revered Son?"
8th Day of Autumn Twilight - 1030 PC - Tarsis the Beautiful
The waitress steps away smile on her face, "Right away sirs!"
Soze returns and sits, "Ah. Kent was most agreeable, though it has been some time since we have seen one another he has agreed to provide us rooms on the fourth floor. We will not have it until a few hours from now as he will need to move a few of those already occupying the rooms out.
Now, tell me Theo, what sort of magic do you fancy?"
8th Day of Autumn Twilight - 1030 PC - Tarsis the Beautiful
Gaurm smiles broadly at the guard, "Thank you! If I find myself in need of employment I will look you up. Have a good day, and thanks again."
He walks back to the others and nods in the direction of the Red Dragon Inn, "He said its over there. That big building with the red tiles."
The decesion is not mine to make, the Revered Son is in charge of this mission. she says, the choice will be up to him.
Theo turns his cheery face back to the table.
He then looks at his calloused hands and the dirty artisan outfit that he wears; and smiles.
I enjoy making, repairing, creating things. So, transmutation, mostly.
Eddie was not one to turn away a willful maiden, and even his conscience was starting to step aside. Still thinking of the boy Remy, he grabs Kara gently by the shoulders. Not enough to really stop her, just enough to get her attention.
"Now, listen, you shouldn't force yourself to be doing this if you're just trying to get back at that boy..." he says with a meaningful look. He gives her the chance to decide before doing anything else.
Zsar orders a drink... dropping a few silver on the counter, payment and tip.
He drinks quietly, his lizard companion sitting underneath him, below the stool.
8th Day of Autumn Twilight - 1030 PC - Tarsis the Beautiful
The motley assortment of this travel band arrive at the Red Dragon Inn. Much like the Dragons it is named after it is quite large. The red tiles give it a distinctive gleam in the daylight. The sign is pristine and appears to have the ability to light up at night.
The doors are large and covered in red scales, perhaps even from a true Red Dragon. When the double doors open those inside the Tavern go silent watching three of the five new arrivals have to duck to enter the front door!
Zsar approaches the bar and orders a drink. The man behind the bar finally appears to notice exactly what Zsar is. He grimaces, "What is one of your kind doing in here!?"
Falseed heads to the back to look for the proprietor and does not hear the comment from the barkeep as the rest of you do.
8th Day of Autumn Twilight - 1030 PC - Tarsis the Beautiful
Remy shrugs as he walks back with you to the ship. The elven contingent looks to you and Remy expectantly. The Revered Son of Paladine speaks first, "Tell me Huru, was the Church able to secure us lodgings?"
8th Day of Autumn Twilight - 1030 PC - Tarsis the Beautiful
Soze replies, "Ah Transmutation. The Red Robes favor such magic. Of course, this early in ones studies it is too soon to know for certain what ones robes will attain when, if, passing the Test of High Sorcery.
My Master has strong knowledge of Transmutation as it assists him in his Necromantic experiments. Eldren, does your Master favor Transmutation?"
8th Day of Autumn Twilight - 1030 PC - Tarsis the Beautiful
"Jealous? He is not even here to see..." she pauses. "Now that is a sight you do not see every day".
Her eyes follow a odd caravan lost swallowed by the heavy Bazaar crowd. One of the men must be standing on a wagon he is so tall...
"Are not all welcome here?" Red says in a deep but calm voice. Trying not to scare the already shocked barkeep.
Briggs glances about to see if there's a raised brick hearth by the fireplace, where can sit - since nobody makes chairs in his size, anyway.
"There was no need for the use of magic on that man," Eldren says simply with a sigh, almost -but not quite- admonishing the other man. What would be the point of lecturing him after all? It is the way of his Order, even if it does not make it right.
"No, my Master is not a Transmuter," the pale man finally says, changing the subject. "He does use such magic, but he focuses on Abjuration, on spells that shield and protect, not only himself but others as well." He shrugs and smiles. "If you knew him, Theo, you would find his choice fitting."
8th Day of Autumn Twilight - 1030 PC - Tarsis the Beautiful
The motley assortment of this travel band arrive at the Red Dragon Inn. Much like the Dragons it is named after it is quite large. The red tiles give it a distinctive gleam in the daylight. The sign is pristine and appears to have the ability to light up at night.
The doors are large and covered in red scales, perhaps even from a true Red Dragon. When the double doors open those inside the Tavern go silent watching three of the five new arrivals have to duck to enter the front door!
Zsar approaches the bar and orders a drink. The man behind the bar finally appears to notice exactly what Zsar is. He grimaces, "What is one of your kind doing in here!?"
Falseed heads to the back to look for the proprietor and does not hear the comment from the barkeep as the rest of you do.
Gaurm approaches the bar beside Zsar, cocks his head at the barkeep, and rumbles, "It seems to me he is trying to order a drink. An attempt I am also keen to make." Gaurm drops a couple of silver coins on the top of the bar and glances around to survey the room.
The Silvanesti elf will inform the Revered Son of what arrangements have been made, upon his approval. for the elves shelter.
Theo smiles.
I am hoping to gain some experience, in order to sharpen my skills for the Test.
The gnome looks around.
Also, I have never been anywhere but Home.
Zsar sighs. "The war... it seems. We have been sent here by my master, an archedruid. Im sure he sent us because he ment well, although I wouldn't know exaxtly. Perhaps something important is here?" he looks at the man and grimises back. "Look I know I'm not the most pleasant to look at, but to me your just as... plesant."
8th Day of Autumn Twilight - 1030 PC - Tarsis the Beautiful
There are approximately twenty patrons here and three women working the tables. The women continue to work though they eye your group warily.
Of those patrons present only one set is looking direct at you all. The rest are keeping quiet and trying not to make eye contact. The set looking at you are humans, one of whom dons a holy symbol the other dresses in simple robes.
The bar keep scowls at Red and Gaurm, "I'm from Flotsam originally. I've seen nothin' from Ogres or Lizard Men that weren't a danger to mankind". He nods at Red, "Yer people I've seen act with honor but I've also seen 'em lose their temper and rip a man's arm off. Maybe you lot are different but if any of ya'll loose those weapons from their sheaths, I'll not live to long to be proven wrong now will I?"
Brogg listens on from the fireplace nearby, the solid brick beneath him easily supporting his weight.
As Zsar speaks about a war, the man wearing simple robes at the nearby table speaks up, "War. What war?"
Falseed is still in the back somewhere meeting with the proprietor.
8th Day of Autumn Twilight - 1030 PC - Tarsis the Beautiful
Eddie reciprocates Kara's kiss she smiles, "That was nice. Very nice. Shall we go somewhere more private to talk?"
8th Day of Autumn Twilight - 1030 PC - Tarsis the Beautiful
Soze grins at Eldren's admonishing, "No need? There is always a need to use magic. It is the very air we breathe, that water we drink, and the food we eat. The Art is the end all and be all of our existence.
Why risk a negative response when magic all but guarantees a positive one? The point of rising above others is to be their betters, magic is just another way of ensuring that edge is set firmly in place. Now I certainly offered the man significant coin but with my magic I ensured that my offer was accepted and he did not try and get greedy with me".
"Yes, protection magic is powerful. My Master believes a strong set of minions though puts his foes on the defensive negating the need for an overabundance of protection magics.
Yes Theo. Gaining experience is just what we are here to do. We must learn about current events to keep tabs on our potential friends and foes. Perhaps a demonstration of the Art you do know is in order once we are settled in fully. This will not be the Inn we inhabit, a place called the Red Dragon is our eventual destination.
First time away from home eh? Well I am glad to be part of your entrance to the wider world".
Soze pauses as the serving woman brings drinks and some bread also taking Soze's order. I have it, your first task. Eddie does not know where we are, Theo, can you retrieve him once our lunch is complete?"
8th Day of Autumn Twilight - 1030 PC - Tarsis the Beautiful
Regulus remains quiet as the other Elves speak. The Commander of House Protector assigned to the delegation is the first and he of course objects, "A black robed wizard is not to be trusted! We are better off remaining quartered here on the ships!"
Thrashmar nods in agreement with the Protector, "I have never sen a black robed wizard do anything for any reason other than one that had an ulterior plot. While the ship may not be the best solution, perhaps camping outside of the walls of this city is".
Sisyl speaks next, "These plains can provide enough game for us to remain independent of the humans as well".
Thiste shakes her head in disagreement, "If we separate ourselves from this meeting, we send the wrong message from the start. We must be one with our Holy Brethren not separated from them, this is a chance to use our positions to heal old wounds and strengthen bonds with those races whom we have common interests if not common custom".
Flar smiles at Thiste, "Indeed, our people are already seen as haughty by those lesser races gathered here. By separating ourselves from them we will seem aloof and perhaps miss engaging in conversations that take place outside of the official meetings sanctioned by the Church of Astarin".
The Protector turns back to Regulus, "Yours is the vote to settle the matter Revered Son".
Regulus turns to you Huru, "My dear, I would hear your thoughts on the matter. You have at least spent some time with these humans. Should we or should we not accept the man's offer and why?"
Zsar looks confused. Ah, has word not spread? The Worldscape is very much under attack... well I suppose a day is hardly much, but surely you've heard of the armies? Oh, hold a moment, where is this place in perspective to the Worldscape?
Zsar knows nothing outside his own religion, and makes no point to ask about the holy symbol
Revered Children of the Gods of Light, she begins I vote with Thiste. We cannot be seen as above if we seek to influence. While we may not like it, it is perhaps best that we join in what is necessary that we can know first hand we might need to counter. The priest of Astra does seem to be a kind man who is overwhelmed in his duties.
Theo looks thoughtful.
I...uh...sure...I can find him...
8th Day of Autumn Twilight - 1030 PC - Tarsis the Beautiful
The priest and the monk stand and approach Zsar, "Worldscape Forest?!" The Monk exclaims. "That is on the other side of the world. How did you get here that you believe it to be close by?"
8th Day of Autumn Twilight - 1030 PC - Tarsis the Beautiful
Soze smiles, "Eldren a fitting first test no?"
8th Day of Autumn Twilight - 1030 PC - Tarsis the Beautiful
Revered Son Regulus nods, "I concur. Captain Rathlmar go with Remy our guide and ascertain if this Black Robe will indeed come through on his promise of lodging. The rest of us will stay and pack our belongings. BY sundown I would like to be lodged".
The head of House Protector, Captain Rathlmar, frowns but says not a further word in objection. He approaches Remy. Remy turns to you, "I'll be back later Revered Daughter, it seems that you elves are full of surprises this day!" He steps away with the Captain and off of the ship.
As the Clerics head below decks to gather their belongings and the members of House Protector stay above decks vigilantly watching the activity on the docks and in the water, Draven approaches you he hisses as quietly as he can, "Huru, how can you agree with Thiste? Trusting a human and a black robe no less?! We would be better served sailing home!"
8th Day of Autumn Twilight - 1030 PC - Tarsis the Beautiful
Gaurm stands calmly beside the bar and gives the bartender a pointed look, then looks at the coins he still holds between two fingers. He then turns his attention to the holy men with interest.
Draven, Quenesti Pah's mandates teach that redemption is possible for all. Some might come to faith because of our actions. Remember the disks of the goddess teach that evil turns upon its own, if this is to come to evil, the gods will bring a good from it she says.
"The archdruid sent us here." Red answers the monk's question simply. Glancing at the bartender then back at the monk.
"The Art is foremost in my mind and my life," Eldren replies. "It is power and knowledge combined, true, and that is reason enough for it to be respected and not be used needlessly and for trivial things." His voice is calm as he smiles mirthlessly. "For what is a mage without his spells when a matter that requires magic faces him and he is spent? Or a danger he has little to no hope besting with his staff alone?"
He sighs and then returns to the matter at hand, namely the gnome. "It is an interesting test, yes. And it can probably be passed with magic and without," he says. "Even if it is a little odd to test another when we ourselves are not yet Tested..."
I seem to remember Eddie speaking with a--I thought?--was a female belonging to one of the elven contingents.
They were discussing the Greygem while we crossed the Market.
I think that is where we loss him.
Theo smiles and takes a drink.
Zest sighs. Ah, well I guess that explains everyone's exotic accents...
8th Day of Autumn Twilight - 1030 PC - Tarsis the Beautiful
The Priest looks to the barkeep, "I think if this group intended harm to this place you would have known about it by now friend Owen".
The barkeep turns a bit red in the face, "Yes. You're right Revered Son. I apologize, I was... judging.
So what'll it be to drink folks"?
The Monk turns to Red, "The ArchDruid of the Worldscape Forest eh? You do not appear to be much of a Druid my horned friend. By what way did you come to dwell in that place?"
"Sure. But I should probably still secure lodgings for the others when we can. No doubt they'll be sore with me if I don't."
8th Day of Autumn Twilight - 1030 PC - Tarsis the Beautiful
Soze raises an eyebrow, "The Greygem eh? An obscure topic of conversation to say the least".
Soze addresses Eldren's statement after thought though he clearly shies away from the discussion of magic in general after Eldren makes his point, "Here you have raised a good point Eldren. We need to know that Theo's magic can be reliable especially in light of normal Gnome speech patterns.
It is a Test only to ensure base competency whereas the Test of High Sorcery is a greater challenge meant to weed out the irresponsible and those weak of mind and body.
Are we agreed that Theo should search for Eddie and his recovery of our wayward companion merits a trust in him that moving forward we can assume his use of magic is safe, or at least safe enough?
After that the Test will be who does Theo believe he will learn more with, your Master or Mine? Once my business is concluded here I will sail us all back to Ergoth and Theo can decide with which of us he will depart if either..."