GM Drake |
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Rise of the Runelords
Chapter One - Burnt Offerings
Despite the occasional chill breeze, the weather is perfect for the growing atmosphere. Banners hang from every window of the few buildings with more than one floor. Many travelers and merchants crowd the streets of the small town of Sandpoint, everyone excited about the much proclaimed Swallowtail Festival.
The place is Sandpoint, a small costal village bordering the Varisian Gulf. The place is a natural harbor, allowing easy access to the sea. The buildings are small, most made out of wood. The town is built alongside an ancient, ruined tower that now stands only fifty feet tall. Called the 'Old Light', the place is believed to have been an ancient lighthouse from Thassilionian origin. Despite its recent growths, the town still has a small, cozy feel to it.
The day is Starday the 23 of Rova 4711 AR, the time of the Autumnal Equinox. This day marks the recognized day of celebration for the goddess Desna, a holiday called the Swallowtail Festival. Among the free feasts, games, and merry-making, the Swallowtail Festival's signature event is marked by the releasing of a huge swarm of swallowtail butterflies from a wagon in recognition of Desna's favored animal.
However, this isn't the only thing drawing most people here. After several years of construction, the small town of Sandpoint has finished building a large, beautiful cathedral, which astonishingly has been created for five other deities as well as Desna. Designed to be equal in devotion to each of them, the cathedral has been cunningly crafted, with the shrines of the gods of Erastil and Abadar facing the south toward town and civilization, the shrines of Shelyn and Gozreh facing west to the Old Light and the sea beyond, and the shrines of Sarenrae and Desna facing east toward the graveyard and rising sun to give hope.
Even the towns of Korvosa and Magnimar cannot boast of such a structure, and people have flocked to see it. Locals of Sandpoint are easy to pick out, as they keep their head up high and wear proud smiles on each face. Rumors of a disaster destroying the town's previous shrines will soon be gone entirely as the town moves on to the future.
For Blikx or a Knowledge (Local) DC 10
As the scheduled time for the festival approaches, people begin to herd toward the town square just in front of the new cathedral. Anticipation builds as people pack the waiting area, locals staying out of the crowd by leaning out windows and even a few rambuctious kids on the roofs. The Swallowtail Festival is about to begin.
Take this time to introduce your character and their interest in coming to the Swallowtail Festival. I will update the next part to which you can react to directly soon. Note, the festival hasn't started just yet; this is a short part to get the mood right.
BLIKX |
Blikx leads Dusty through the crowded streets towards the Square. The mule plods along passively, unperturbed by the relatively light burden of chairs, table and other necessities for the day.
Blikx moves purposefully, and staunchly avoids eye contact with the more judgmental eyes in the crowd. They're never going to let me live it down. I'm that little b&~#%, forever. You'd think some of them might feel sorry for me...give me a chance..."
Once she arrives, she does her best to stake out a good spot. "Gotta make some coin. Maybe the visitors won't care or know," she mutters to herself.
She ties Dusty to a nearby hitching post, unfolds the table and chairs, and begins to layout her needles and inks.
"Tattoos! Fine art for your flesh! Tattoos!" she calls out.
Ven Nicolae |
Ven mumbles to herself as she scrawls in her journal. "On this day the twenty-third of Rova, forty-seven-eleven Absalom Reckoning, the town of Sandpoint is busy. There are many people here from all over the region. There are many merchants set up along the thoroughfare." She goes to the opposite page and continues sketching the cathedral. Her hand is unsteady, and something about the proportions look wrong. Should have spent less time climbing trees and more time learning to draw proper.
Ven came to Sandpoint hoping to find some kind of work; she was good with a sword and quick on her feet, and she could read and write. But she had no idea where to look, who to ask. Maybe when everyone was starting to head out after the festival she could get a job as a guard, but where would that leave her after the job was done?
She rocks back and forth on her feet, snaps her journal shut, and stows it away in her backpack. "Well, certainly not going to find work sitting around like a lump! Onwards!" And she walks off into the square, chin high and a friendly smile on her face.
GM Drake |
As you gather in the town square, a young woman takes the stage. Though the voices of the crowd haven't quite died down, but the woman's strong, clear voice quickly catches everyone's attention. "Hello, and I welcome to the town of Sandpoint as mayor of this fair city, Kendra Deverin. It seems this event has drawn quite a crowd this year, though it's not every year we get to celebrate the consecration of a new cathedral. This chapel has been a endeavor of our people for the past five years, and we hope you'll help us join in celebrating this momentous occasion.
"Of course, what's a celebration without games and food, right?" the mayor asks, rousing a cheer from the crowd. "Our people have several of our signature games set up around the town for you all to enjoy. Also, we will have a free feast prepared for all of you at each of our taverns at noon. It was the only way we thought we could tear old Mr. Rovanky away from his work."
Many of the locals laugh at the comment, though the man who was most likely Rovanky did not look pleased. As the laughter dies down, a man takes the woman's place on the stage. Wearing the guard uniform, he strikes a contrast to the festival atmosphere.
"Yes, this is a great day for Sandpoint. However, as Sheriff of this fine town, I must ask you all to be civil and follow our local laws. I don't want any trouble here on this special day." Unlike the enthusiastic mayor, the Sheriff is much more gruff, and the crowd starts to loss the momentum the mayor had built. There will be a large bonfire later in the evening, and we hope you'll be safe around it. We don't want any more fires."
Several of the locals grow sober at the mention of fire. "Finally," the Sheriff continues, "I would like us all to have a moment of silence for the many lives that were lost in the fire that took our original chapel and many homes of our people."
Silence falls for a few moments, and then the Sheriff leaves the stage and a man decked in a colorful outfit takes up with a dramatic air, hiding his face with a cape until he begins his speech.
"Good people of Sandpoint and various locations of interest," the man booms, sweeping out his cape with dramatic pose. "It seems our dear Sheriff Hemlock has put out one fire too many. Now who's ready to celebrate and party?
"How about you, good sir?" the man says, pointing out a young lad near the back. Every head turns as the new speaker grabs everyone's attention. "Are you ready to get roaring drunk?" The lad looks put on the spot for a moment, then chuckles and raises a foathing mug into the air with a loud 'yes!'. Then, a loud pop sounds as several butterflies suddenly fly out of his mug, the liquid now gone. The crowd soon erupts in applauds and laughs as the young inspects the mug confused.
"Yes, this is a day to have fun, especially after all we have done." The man suddenly falls to one knee and raises a fist into the air, as though born for drama. "For five long years now we have toiled to reconstuct this glorious establishment, putting in blood, sweat, and tears to finish it. This place contains many memories for our people, several sad from the previous fire. But now, with such a place created, we shall spark a new flame in the hearts of our good people and create a place of wonder and miracles!" With this loud exclamation, the man throws his hand toward the Cathedral and a wall of flame temporarily appears in front of it, though the lack of heat reveals that it is an illusion.
The crowd is once again beginning to grow excited as the man expertly pulls the crowd's strings. "And today also is the date of our first production of "The Harpy's Curse", featuring none other than famed Magnimar idol Allishanda in our lead role. That's right. Today is the day to see this great creation live at the Sandpoint Theater created by none other than me, Cyrdak Drokkus. The first production will start this evening right after the Cathedral's consecration."
With a few more poses, and a little pushing from the next speaker, Cyrdak left the stage to several cheers from the crowd. The next man wore religious robes, with a medallion having from a necklace. His voice is much more calm and even as he begins to speak. "Well, I'm sure you all want to start the festival, so I won't take much time unlike our local theater lover. As the head priest of our new Cathedral, Abstalar Zantus, thank you all for coming, and let the festival begin!"
Knowledge (Religion) DC 10
GM Drake |
The festivities are now underway! People swarm away from the town square to visit the local attractions they had come for. Taking a moment or two, one will hear of the various events going on around the town. Several of the locals have set up games for people to enjoy, including the Devil Hunt, Tug-of-Temptation, Goblin Hop, Dragon Races, the Goblin Toss, and the Old Light Smash. Another attraction for many is the famed Hagfish Challenge, where many will try to get their name immortalized; others come to simply watch and join in friendly competitions of arm-wrestling. Darting around the older adults, the kids of the town laugh and pull other travelers' kids into their games of Hide-and-Seek.
Alright, the festival has begun. With the time set, you'll have time to do two activities before choosing where to have lunch and watching the Swallowtail Release, then time for one more activity before the consecration of the Cathedral. The games are summarized above, you can try the Hagfish Challenge or hang out with its spectators, play with the children, try to ply a trade with so much potential clintele, etc. If there's something you want to do, but unsure, just ask.
BLIKX |
When Drokkus takes the stage, Blikx takes advantage of the crowd's attention on him to work a little of her magic.
Calling a small ball of wind, she whispers into it: (casts message)
"Did you hear about Drokkus and Sir Jasper? Seems they've been stoking a fire of their own, and doing a bit of sweating between the sheets!"
As if blowing a kiss, she sends it into a group of middle-aged women standing a dozen paces away.
She repeats the process every few seconds, targeting a different group in the crowd, but always a group containing at least some women and girls.
A disembodied female voice among a group of men would be suspicious.
Once Zantus has proclaimed the festival begun, Blikx returns to her barking:
"Tattoos! Tattoos! From the simple to the sublime; from basic to beautiful! Come be my canvas, and leave with a work of art! Tattoos! Tattoos!"
Raniero Cavalcante |
Nero followed the crowd towards the town square as Kendra Deverin began her address. Her words rang out over the din of the crowd, but the ranger could barely focus on what she had to say. The scent of spiced meats and sweet pastries wafting through the air had caught his attention, and his rumbling stomach was hard to ignore. He stood, sniffing the air with eyes closed as he tried to pinpoint the most delicious smell.
As the welcoming address ended, Nero filed in among the dispersing crowd. Eager to test himself against the residents of Sandpoint, he took off toward the Devil Hunt.
Nero is going to saunter down to the Devil Hunt. He’s only recently begun to practice archery, so he’s keen to gauge how well he stands up against some of the more seasoned shooters. If he passes any ‘tests of strength’ he would probably give one of those a go too.
GM Drake |
For Blikx
Roll for a week's worth of regular work. You still have time for an activity, though you can continue tattooing and roll again.
For Raniero
"Better luck next time," another man says, taking the bow and arrows from him. Seeing another potential customer, he turns to you.
"I haven't see you in these parts before. A wild man, I'd reckon," the man says with a laugh. "I'm Jodar Provolost, but most here call me Jody. I run this game here called The Devil Hunt. Costs two coppers to play, and you get two shots. If you get a bulls-eye or get both on the closest circle, you get Sandpoint's prize pie, 'The Old Pie'."
If you decide to play, make two ranged attacks with a normal long bow.
BLIKX |
Artistry: 1d20 + 5 + 2 ⇒ (3) + 5 + 2 = 10
Second Roll, Artistry: 1d20 + 5 + 2 ⇒ (3) + 5 + 2 = 10
The extra +2 is for the masterwork tool kit. I'm not sure which rule set under artistry you wish to use (Commission work seems to make the most sense to me), which would mean I've only managed to make tattoos of 1 sp quality today. I guess I would just need to know how many I have sold.
Raniero Cavalcante |
Nero watches with interest as the man takes his shot. When approached by Jodar, he stands tall and nods. "Well met, Jody. I am called Nero." the half elf replies in a deep, husky voice. Reaching into his coin purse, he fishes out two copper coins and places them on the table next to the bow. "I'll gladly try to take that pie off your hands." he says with a smile.
Taking up the longbow, Nero gives it a practice pull before knocking his first arrow.
First arrow: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (3) + 4 = 7
"Damn..." he growls, picking up the second arrow.
Second arrow: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (6) + 4 = 10
Nero places the bow back on the table with a sigh. "It seems today is not my day, Jody."
Raniero Cavalcante |
The promise of pie proved too tempting for Nero. Tossing another two coppers on the table, he took up the bow once more.
Third shot: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (8) + 4 = 12
Fourth shot: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (11) + 4 = 15
GM Drake |
Ven
The old man notices you watching and beckons you over. "My, what a fine nice young lady. I'm Aesrick, and I run this game here, the Old Light Smash. Afterall, who needs a lighthouse with no light, right? Anyway, the game is simple. For two coppers you get three shots at the stones. Knock them all down and get a toy catapult as a prize. What do you think?"
If you choose to play, make three ranged attack rolls with a -4 penalty for no weapon proficiency.
Ven Nicolae |
GM Drake:
"Well, I fancy myself a pretty good shot. I'll take a crack at it," she says with a wry smile, and hands over two copper pieces. As she aims the catapult she closes one eye and sticks out her tongue in focus.
+4 to-hit, -4 proficiency
1d20 ⇒ 12
1d20 ⇒ 6
1d20 ⇒ 18
GM Drake |
The crowd cheers as Aesrick pulls out another miniatre catapult. "Well, a good shot indeed, miss. That was a wonderful last shot. I almost thought you were going to miss," Aesrick says, handing Ven her trophy. "Almost" he repeats with a wink.
You receive a miniature, giant catapult. A small device, it will easily fit into your backpack, unlike the one you just used. You still have time for one more activity before lunch.
GM Drake |
Several in the crowd laugh as the bartender nods with a smile. "A hagfish it will be then," he says, accepting a silver coin from the dwarf. Placing the coin a bag hanging on the wall, he takes a tankard and dips it into the large aquariam on the back wall. With the murky water stirred, a strange creature swims by, though it didn't look like a normal fish.
"Here's your first glass," the man says, grinning. "I don't allow seconds until you can down the first.
The dwarf growls a challenge and tips the tankard up, downing it in one gulp. The crowd cheers, and even the men who were arm-wrestling in the corner turn to see the action as the dwarf steadily puts the glass back down on the counter.
"There's your..." Suddenly, the dwarf falls off the stool, out cold.
"Aye, that's your first glass," the bartender says, much to the amusement of his patrons. "Anyone else care to try?"
It's a silver coin to try, but you get all the coins in the bag if you win, as well as having your name etched into the wall of winners, which is rather short. It will be a fort save if so. You can continue to watch, or even join the men who are arm-wrestling in the corner; make two str checks if you do.
GM Drake |
Blikx soon finds herself getting more and more practiced at the art as well, as her new customers are repeatedly asking for a new design: a seven-tipped star, usually grey or black, though some are going for a more rainbow effect.
1/2 of roll in gold for the work because of the festival, so 10gp for those two rolls. Also, this will have consequences for plot. :D
BLIKX |
Not one to look a gift horse in the mouth, Blikx happily takes coin from the Taldan visitors and inks the same design on each of them, providing whatever variations in color and shading that they desire.
"Such an unusual symbol...very intricate," she says softly as she works, opening the door for any of them to offer explanation.
She searches her memory to see if it rings any bells. A merchant company, or mercenary band? Maybe an obscure god from their country? I wonder....
Tattoo Lore: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (7) + 5 = 12
Ven Nicolae |
Zelladania |
Knowledge Religion: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (17) + 6 = 23
From her spot in the crowd, Zella is quick to take note that the new new head priest of the Cathedral is a fellow cleric of Desna and makes a mental note to introduce herself to him later, at a less busy time.
Zella looks around as the crowd begins to disperse after the speeches are done with.
"Hmm, it seems that the first challenge to overcome today will be deciding what to do first, food or games?" Zella looks over at her escort from her family's caravan. "Do you have any preference which to choose first Osru?"
Osru Lassem |
Knowledge(local): 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (16) + 6 = 22
Osru considers himself above religious pageantry. But something about the nature of these particular festivities has captured his fascination. Considering the history of this town, it is evident just how important this new cathedral is. As such, he is completely enthralled by the series of speakers. He laughs and gasps and dries a tear in his eye at all the appropriate times.
He is still letting it all sink in when he notices Zella looking up at him as if she is waiting for an answer.
"Uh, what? Yes, this is all really quite beautiful. And so many exciting challenges!" He looks around for a minute, considering the options.
"I have heard of a place called the Fatman's Feedbag I was hoping to try for lunch. Would you care to stroll through the stalls and browse the wares for a bit and then join me there?"
He is actually very interested in the archery competition and attempts to casually steer her in that direction. But if his lovely companion wishes to stop somewhere along the way, he will gladly stay with her.
Ok, I'm kind of thinking a bit more about background in light of my campaign trait. I'm thinking that Osru has been travelling with Zella's caravan for a few years. The journey to Sandpoint is the first time that Osru and Zella have really spent any time together. The Sczarni element in the caravan operates somewhat below the surface. Zella may or may not be aware of them- that's up to her. Either way, Osru isn't sure whether she knows. So he is going to meet his Sczarni contact at the Fatman's Feedbag but he doesn't want to let on who that is yet.
How does that sound?
GM Drake |
"Sorry, my good fellow," Jody says, patting Raniero on the back. "It's the Sandpoint Devil I tell ya. Just too fast, he is. Can't be killed, you know."
Alright, must are now to the lunch point. If I don't get back from Zella and Osru, I'll go with their previous choices and then start the Swallowtail release. There will be time for one more activity after lunch, should Raniero want just one more try. ;)
Osru Lassem |
bow attempt 1: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (16) + 5 = 21
bow attempt 2: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (17) + 5 = 22
GM: I edited that spoiler if you have already looked at it.
Zelladania |
Not a bad idea. :)
Initially planning on following Osru, Zella instead becomes distracted by the talk about a popular tattoo artist that was at the festival. Wishing Osru the best of luck at the archery contest, Zella makes plans to meet back up with him at the Feed Bag in a bit and then makes her way to where the tattoos are being done.
Zella looks over people showing off their newly acquired tattoos and checks out the new tattooist.
Osru - Zella isn't really aware of the Sczarni element within the caravan, she's been a bit isolated with all her clerical training.
GM Drake |
Watching for new comers, a man approaches Osru and immediately takes his hand. "Hello, Jodar Provolost is the name, archery is the game. Most folks here just call me Jody, though. Interested in playing? Two copper pieces will get you two tries to hit the famous Sandpoint Devil, a mythical beast of legend."
When Osru hands him two copper pieces, Jody hands him the bow and arrows. Casually holding the bow up, Osru quickly fires both arrows off without wanting to see if the first hit.
The crowd erupts in applauds as not one, but both fly right through the hole at the center. Suprised, Jody brings out two pies for Osru to enjoy, and makes sure to get his name. "Let all know that Osru Lassem has finally ended the threat and killed the Sandoint Devil twice over!"
Almost being mobbed by the people as they congratulate him, Osru hustles off to the Fatman's Feedbag.
The rest will be up to you two. Her tattoos have been going for about 1-2gp right now.
Osru Lassem |
He hurries to the Feedbag, hoping to meet with Jubrayl Vhiski before Zella arrives. He slows down when he sees the sign on the building, acting casual as he enters.
BLIKX |
Blikx finishes yet another one one of the star designs and begins cleaning her needles for the next customer.
Wow. This is turning out to be a great day! Glad I thought of setting up the booth.
"All right, who's next? Step right up and show me some skin! Tell me where you want it; neck, back, arm...if you don't mind droppin' trow, I'll put a little color in your cheeks!" she calls out as she pockets the last customer's coin.
GM Drake |
Raniero Cavalcante |
"Strange looking man." he thought to himself as he passed a tiefling heading toward the devil hunt. His mind quickly returned to the delicious smells in the air, and he set off to find something to eat.
Nero will follow his nose to the nearest, most delicious smelling tavern for lunch.
BLIKX |
Blikx looks up and her pale cheeks go scarlet when she realizes her next customer is, by her attire, a priestess of Desna.
"Um...beg your pardon, Mother," she mumbles, looking sheepish. "Can't help my mouth, sometimes."
Good job. Come across like some rough-tongued dock hand to a lady, a priestess who wants the you to tattoo her with the symbol of her goddess! Better do a good job, or everyone'll know before the day's out!
She awkwardly curtsies and motions for the priestess to sit down at her table.
As the woman lays her hand down before her, she carefully considers the design, thinking of the decorations within the new Cathedral.
Can I Take 10, for a total of 17? If not:
Artistry, Create Tattoo: 1d20 + 5 + 2 ⇒ (6) + 5 + 2 = 13
She takes a couple of deep breaths, then sets to work. She inks the outline of a swallowtail butterfly, but expanding the black ink outward from the lines. She intersperses deep purple and white-blue flecks, giving the impression of a clear night sky.
"Let me know if we need to stop for a bit," she says. "Some people get a bit cross after bein' poked with a needle for a bit."
Whenever the priestess directs her to continue, Blikx then considers the body of the butterfly.
Struck by a sudden inspiration, she changes from her plan to make a realistic image and moves to something more abstract. She chooses and carefully mixes white and silver ink to make a deep gray, the color of storm clouds. She begins to fill-in the outline of the shape with what looks like swirling, rolling thunderheads; only making certain that the swirls leave the clear impression of antennae, head, thorax,wings and abdomen. She then retrieves her custom vial of electric blue ink and with it begins to create flashes and bolts of lightning crisscrossing the wings, giving the impression of wing struts. She also touches small amounts of it behind the swirls that define the body segments, giving the entire image an impression of depth.
When it is finished, a swallowtail butterfly made of a roiling thunderstorm flies through a clear night sky on the back of the woman's hand.
"I..I hope you like it, Mother," she says once she has finished.
GM Drake |
GM Drake |
With noon approaching, several people start to round everyone up to the square, where the main part of the Swallowtail Festival is about to happen.
Once again crowded, the crowd is quite noisy in the square until Abstalar Zantus stands up on the stage. In the following quietness, one can hear a creaking as a large covered wagon is pulled up behind the stage.
"Good people of Sandpoint and travelers, today is the day of our dear goddess Desna," Abstalar begins. "As most of you know, Desna is the god of freedom and love, and her show of compassion and favor is seen in her precious animal, the Swallowtail Butterfly.
"Desna, standing here before you now, shower down upon us your favor and grace." At the end of his short prayer, Abstalar claps his hands together, and the covering of the wagon is released. Out of the wagon pours thousands of butterflies in a storm, quickly flying to the sky in freedom.
Once the crowd quiets once more, Abstalar continues. "All the taverns have consented to have free food available to all." He is unable to get out more as the people charge ot of the square after food.
The list of taverns can be found in the campaign tab, as well as other establishments. Sandpoint links to a map with the numbered locations.
Ven Nicolae |
Perception: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (12) + 10 = 22
Ven watches the butterflies in wonder. She had started scrawling notes in her journal, writing down Abstalar's words, but had been swept up in the moment. She remembered herself and tries to add to her previous sketch of the cathedral with the butterflies flying away. She's distracted again by what is happening with Zelladania.
I've never been much for fates, but that's an omen if I've ever seen one, Ven thinks as she looks upon the priestess and the falling swallowtail. She moves around the people passing by her and waits to see how the priestess reacts before trying to approach her.
Raniero Cavalcante |
Nero wanders around in search of somewhere to eat, when all of a sudden he notices a large crowd beginning to form. Unable to push through the sheer mass of people, he is forced to follow them to the town square.
He watches the release of the swallowtail butterflies with interest.
Perception: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (14) + 10 = 24
Noticing one of the creatures fall into the exotic woman's hand, he grunts thoughtfully.
The mention of free food suddenly piques his curiosity however, and he watches the crowd disperse as he makes his decision.
Osru Lassem |
When Zella arrives, Osru watches Jubrayl carefully. He doesn't know his contact well enough to trust him yet. However he is pleased to see that Zella is treated with utmost courtesy. Seeing the smile on Zella's face when she learns her room is free is the best part yet of a great day so far.
perception: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (12) + 5 = 17
Osru is too distracted by the swarm of butterflies to notice the one that lands on his companion's hand. When they have all fluttered away, he turns, "Would you care to go eat now? I'm famished."
Zelladania |
Zella sits down before the tattooist, watching with interest as she starts outlining the butterfly on her hand and assuring her that she is used to touch of the needle and will be fine.
After the tattoo is done, Zella looks at it admiringly. "Thank you miss, this is truly a lovely butterfly." She lays down two gold pieces to cover the cost. "I hope to see you around again if inspiration takes me to get tattooed again."
Zella gives up her spot to the next person wanting to get tattooed and heads off to meet back up with Osru. She is pleasantly surprised to find that she has a nice little room to herself for free and quickly sets her stuff up in it so that she is not overly encumbered during the remainder of the day at the festival.
She insists to Osru that they leave soon for the Release of the Swallowtails so that they get a good spot to watch it from. Zella watches in wonder as the butterflies are releases and fly up into the air.
She gasps in surprise as one lands in her very own hands and then lets out a little cry as it fades out of existence.
A bit stunned by the obvious omen, Zella is slow to respond to Osru's question regarding food. "Hmm, what? Oh, sure. Food sounds like a good idea since we haven't had a chance to grab lunch yet."
As they walk to the food stalls: "Osru, did you see the butterfly that landed in my hands during the Release? I think it was an Omen that something bad is going to happen soon, so please keep your weapons at the ready, we may be called upon to take action."
Ven Nicolae |
Ven takes note of both the troubled expression on Zelladania's face as well as the large Tiefling accompanying her. I'll not bother them, but I will keep an eye out for trouble. She heads for the Rusty Dragon for food and room, slowing down as she passes through the Sandpoint Market. Across the harbor is Valdemar Manor. I wonder if they're more like father or grandmother. She brushes off the thought and goes to the inn.
BLIKX |
As the crowd disperses to find their favorite fare, Blikx's rumbling stomach reminds her that she has yet to eat, as well.
She cleans her needles, stoppers her inks, and puts her tattoo kit back in its carrying bag. "I'm gonna go grab a bite, Dusty," she says to the mule, patting his back affectionately. "Stay here, and enjoy your lunch."
She fills the bucket with water and puts out a measure of feed for Dusty, then checks to make sure his bridle is secure to the hitching post. Once she is sure he's taken care of, Blikx heads off in the direction of the Rusty Dragon.
Adventurous types, the kind with money, like to stay there; and the food's pretty good - so they say - not like I can afford it any other day. Good food for free and possibly a bit more business. That's the plan....as long as she doesn't have me thrown out...
After a short walk, Blikx enters the Rusty Dragon and looks around for the buffet line.
Osru Lassem |
Osru replies, "How could a butterfly be a bad omen? I am still learning of such matters. Nevertheless I shall do as you bid, miss. I cannot very well ready my bow but I will be on my guard, ready to protect you." He looks around warily, wondering what could possibly go wrong and mar such a lovely day.
perception: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (9) + 5 = 14
sense motive?: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (12) + 5 = 17
GM Drake |
The inside of the Rusty Dragon is filled with travelers. The walls are adorned with decorations of stuff one would find dungeon crawling. The owner seems to match the decor, as the woman hurries about to take orders and deliver food.
As each of you comes in, she greets you codially and introduces herself as Ameiko Kaijitsu, a retired adventurer. She thanks you for coming, seats you and brings out your food.
She has two rooms left if asked. 5 cp a night, dinner included.
As she brings out your food, she comments, "Have you heard about Cyrdas' little bedding problem. With a smirk and a knowing gleam in her eye, she heads off with a laugh.
Ameiko has it in for Cyrdas, so your little message earlier put her in a good mood. Also, she is one of the few in town who don't really look down on you since she's the black sheep of her family; well, more like her father is, but oh well.
The food is rather good, though it does remind you of the sense of traveling outdoors. Once the food is finished, you head outdoors to make room for more guests as people continue to come.
[ooc]Alright. Time for one more activity before the main part of the festival begins: the consecration of the temple.