Jhod broadly smiles at Taisper, seemingly taking a pretty quick shine to him. "Can't say I know much. There was a temple in these parts a generation or two ago, but I really don't do much traveling and never saw it. Erastil's one of those gods that isn't remarkably organized. We don't really got a roster or much of a structure at all. Good for a country priest like myself, but probably pretty frustrating to you city folks. I got an eye for evaluating people, and I reckon that you're a follower of Abadar. Am I right?"
"Haha, yeah! That's right! I'm not a cleric, not exactly, so I don't get too picky about organization I don't think. My particular duties in the church are a bit more, how would I say it...'focused' than a cleric. I don't have to deal with ledgers and accounting and stuff, for example. But yeah! I come from Alkenstar City. Heard of it? I like it here, I'll tell you what, though home of course is nice 'cos it's home, you know how that is." The inquisitor chuckles. "But the terrain is so varied here! And the woods! Oh man there are all these different birds and little critters and things, it's just so amazing. Tandlara -- that's her over there -- was helping me identify some of the ones I'd never seen before, which, well, really was most of 'em to be honest. " He gives an embarrassed little smile.
Jemini hugs Svetlana in return - a whole lot of roadweariness washes off Jemini as she laughs more carelessly and heartfelt. Something about Oleg's place makes her feel right at home - which makes her feel more girl and less warrior.
"Svetlana! It's been so long! Just look at all the things that have been happening here - wow!" Jemini looks at the veritable bustle of activity that now surrounds the little trading post. "Do they all get to eat your amazing cooking? How do you cope?!"
Jhod talks to Taisper, words flowing freely between them like old friends. "I'm actually from Mivon to the south. I didn't really get out much, so I don't think I've ever heard of Alkenstar. Have you heard of Mivon? It is where many Rostlanders settled after the Dragonlord united Brevoy. I lived in a small village there by name of Haelcim, a bit like the one that is beginning to form up here. I was quite pleased to be there, but I reckoned I was in need of a change, so here I am."
Svetlana laughs, clearly pleased at Jemini's return. "It's been pretty harrowing! Fortunately, I mostly just make bigger batches of food, so it isn't too hard. I just wish there weren't so many men here!" She laughs, a happy sound of joy.
One of the guards comes up to Jemini and offers her a formal bow. "Lady Jemini, it is good to see you. We have word from your family if you wish to read it." He hands her a letter, presumably the response to her letter.
Dearest Jemini,
We are obviously quite pleased to hear of your Successes in the untamed wilds. Our Concern for your well-being is on our minds daily. With the hope that your Mission will soon bear Fruit, we have Ordered a trade caravan to open up a route between Our House and your current location. We will be sure to include some reminders of Civilization. Stay safe, daughter.
With love,
Your Parents
This note is a response in kind, a note of innocuous nature on its face but a secret message hidden in the words. Jemini's parents state that they understand the issue and will pursue it, but have sent loyal guards to her side for the time being.
Tandlara is still wary as they ride through the countryside, afraid of a repeat of yesterdays' troubles. When the reach the fort however she visibly relaxs, and cannot maintain a straight face when Svetlana hugs everyone in greeting.
She sets to atabling her horse and the horses of the others, bringing Zander with her if he's free to help. She soothes the animals and sets them in their stalls, making sure they have feed.
Afterwards, she talks to Zander privately. 'Don't be too uncomfortable around all of these folk. We'll be back out in the wilds soon enough. I'm a little overwhelmed myself, this is the most people I've been together with excepting Restov, and the city made me uncomfortable, in a century. If you get awkward, we can go hunt in the forest. I need to replenish some herbs and items I use for my magic anyway, and it will give you a break from people and your mask. I worry that you'll get trapped in there,' She smiles, but a look of concern crosses her eyes.
Taisper shakes his head. "Mm. Don't know those places. I haven't traveled hardly at all, see, so I know less about other places than probably anyone here."
"But as for 'needing a change,' Jhod, friend, I completely understand. This place out here, these unclaimed lands, they seem like a prime territory for anyone who wants a fresh start or just a change of pace. Say I tell you what; I don't want to take all your time here when there are so many other folks to speak with, and you should really meet with the rest of my traveling companions! I think Berrin and Zander and Tandlara - " Taisper points out each party member in turn. " - would be especially interesting for you to talk to; got kind of a knack for the woods it seems, all of 'em. Now understand, that's not to take nothin' away from Jemini or Verik, of course, I think you should make the full round of everybody. Those two are just a bit more...citified, I guess? Might take a bit more for common ground."
The inquisitor laughs at himself. "Listen to me. 'Citified!' Like I should talk, coming from a gun-making capitol of a far territory! Hah! Anyway, what I was gonna say was, you know, I'd like to hear a lot more about this 'change' you needed, you ever feel a desire to just go on about it, you know? Maybe after this little party settles a bit we could talk more."
Berrin enjoys the easy ride back to Oleg's, it's not often that Bessie actuallt goes where Berrin wants her to and Reggie lops easely at her heel. 'I could get used to this I rekon.' he thinks to himself as Bassie keeps her pace easy and relatively smooth.
When Oleg's comes into view Berrin adopts a grin of anticipation. Good cooking, ale and a bed were in sight, Berrin turned practicly giddy with anticipation. Seeing the gathering of people by Oleg's puts a frown on his face though, given the voilatile political situation Berrin didnðt know what to expect and is releaved to see Kesten riding out to them although he eyes his horsemanship with a bit of envy. 'Maybee he could give me some pointers that one.'
Riding into Oleg's Berrin quickly dismounts and returns Svetlana's hug and gives Oleg a short wave, "It's good to be back. How are things?" he says, the smile back on his face. Stabeling Bessie he gives her a pat and heads back out to the congression. Catching the soldier eyeing him Berrin stares back, wondering if a chalange is beeing issued or if he maybee knows him but at the offer of free ale Barrin is quick to forgett about him and gets into the bustle for his mug. "Oi! Oi! Coming through!"
Having retrieved his ale he sips it contently and unbuckles his armor. Walking over to Jhod and Taisper he gives a small salute with his mug. "Hei Jhod. I'm Berrin. So your a priest eh? Verik's a cleric too, of Adabar though. You should ask Zander for a look at his map, we found an old temple of Old Deadeye out there."
As the party approaches the Trading Post, Zander looks on anxiously at the new arrivals. 'More people here... Lots of people... Lots of people...' Looking around nervously, he makes quick eye contact with Tandlara, but is his attention is soon taken away by Kesten Garess and his outriders. At Kesten's mention of aid coming from House Orlovsky, Zander is visibly unsettled and passes a quick glance of worry to Berrin.
Svetlana's warm reception eases his mind somewhat, though he meets Jhod's greetings rather halfheartedly and only manages to mutter out a quiet, "Good to meet you." as the Priest shakes his hand. Nodding a greeting to the boisterous Oleg, Zander jumps at the invitation from Tandlara to accompany her to the stable, away from the growing crowd of onlookers.
Breathing a sigh of relief as soon as he and Tandlara are alone with the horses, Zander listens intently as the elven woman speaks to him and nods along, leaning against the wall of the stable. "That sounds great Tandlara... All of this time with just you guys has gotten me used to my own skin, but then Ilyana and her son, and now all of these people... I'm just not used to this sort of thing, you know? I mean, I used to spend some time in towns back in the day, but I was always able to keep out of the spotlight, but here we're right in the middle of everything and I just feel like everyone keeps looking at me and..." As his voice trails off, Zander slides down the wall to a sitting position and pulls of his mask, holding it out before him to look at. "And now, Kesten said that men from House Orlovsky are coming and I'm pretty much terrified." He smiles. "Giant bears, crazed trappers, Verik-eating snake monsters, these things don't scare me much, but coming face to face with those people?" He looks away from his mask, up to Tandlara. "It scares me senseless. I should probably tell you, I mean, I'm sure it's a stupid thing from your point of view, but... I have a connection to the Orlovsky family."
Leaning his head back against the stable wall, Zander recounts the tale of his heritage, the fire, his family's betrayal, and his life up to this point to Tandlara. As his story comes to a conclusion, he wipes away the tears from his eyes and gives a wan smile, "So, that's pretty much everything there is to know about me."
|
Verik greets oleg and Svetlana warmly, blushing as Svetlana hugs him. He follows Oleg smiling, but turns back to Svetlana and calls, "Need to talk to you later Svetlana I was hoping to hire you to help me plan a Taxfest celebration!"
Seeing the priest of Erastil as he heads off he nods in greeting calling back, a little stiffly, "Well met Master Kavken, please excuse me I am sure we shall find an opportunity to speak later."
He heads off and updates their accounts with Oleg being for the most part greatly pleased with the traders efforts on their part."Excellent, thank you Oleg. We might have a few more items that would be of interest to you I hope, I believe I have a list here... I certainly know we have Tatzylwyrm skins, the wretched things nearly gutted me, well no I suppose actually gutted me when I was fool enough to stumble into their nest. It is only thanks to the skill of my comrades that I am here at all."
Oleg nods sagely, a man of few words. "They'll do that." He sets to work preparing the ledger for the new wares. Seeing that Verik is pleased with the sale, he pulls a sizeable bag of gold out and hands it to the cleric. "That should be the right sum if you could distribute it to your group." As he comes to the firearm, traps, and skins, he stops. "This Orlivanch's?"
Over in the party, Jhod seems to be meshing well with Taisper and Berrin. "Yes, Taisper here was just telling me what you found out there. Certainly sounds exciting! But worship of Erastil is based on villages and families, not bureaucracy and titles."
|
|
Verik's face hardens at the mention of the old trapper. "Yes, they were. I hope he was no friend of yours Oleg. We slew that murderous madmen and I am sure that even now he is enjoying the ministrations of some devil - they probably have a lot in common. If you had seen the poor people in that man's basement... If you know of any missing persons they might have been there, we gave them a decent burial, but I am afraid we were to late for anything else..."
"Ah! Are you in luck! Come over here Nicki! You too Ilyana!" Jemini waves the two closer, "I hope you can find a space about here for these two to share on occasion - currently it is not safe for them in their home; and I'd rather hear all about this little rascal's antics in Oleg's stables than in the wild outdoors." She laughs as she ruffles Nicki's hair. "Ilyana, you know Svetlana, don't you?"
Jemini let's little Nicki do his innocent and highly energetic kid magic wash over Svetlana as she grabs some of the ale that Oleg's been offering.
Recognizing the man, Jemini smiles: "Walthon! What a pleasure! Did they actually let you command a troop of your own now? What were they thinking?" Jemini chides him with a wink. She thanks him for the letter, keeping it for herself and unread for the time being. She let's captain Walthon present his men, most are at least fleetingly familiar and she nods smiling, "It is great to see the tabbards of home standing tall here at Oleg's - your presence here let's me rest easier. I lay my safety in your capable hands."
On the quiet she also entrusts Walthon with 25 gold pieces (in silver), intended to bolster the wages and moral of the Lebeda soldiers over the course of the next weeks - an occasional bonus, or communal bottle of wine.
When Jemini has a chance, she asks Kesten, Walthon and Oleg to meet with her to brief them on the results of their exploration. She runs down a detailed summary of events, calling over Zander as she progresses to ask him to aid the briefing with his map.
Jemini tasks Walthon to select a few men to accompany a suitable merchant who will transport an additional freight, namely the bandit leader Kressle, to the Lebeda estates. The transport will also carry Jemini's return letter.
Jemini is quite pre-occupied on her return to Oleg's, but still beams at Jhod when she finds time for him. "You have the look of a teacher about you, Jhod, that's good. There may be one or two instances where a word from the wise will go a long way here. So I hope you will stay around awhile. If only to teach little Nicki over there how to read a little. But -" Jemini blushes, "- sorry, what do you actually do? And can I help you?"
Dearest Father, kindest Mother
With Heartfelt pleasure I receive Word from you. Our Journey has proven more Eventful than I had hoped or feared. These lands are still truly Untamed and will Require a steady and continuous Effort to harness. On the Upside, I've returned to Oleg's Trading Post to find it in good hands. Furthermore the contingent of Protectors is slowly expanding, covering House Garess and Orlovsky as well; even divine aid in the form of a priest of Erastil has joined.
We have explored a sizable section of the region West of Oleg's - and found a foul miscreant trapper, a Temple of Erastil, much fell Beasts, a wife and son; but perhaps most Ominous - high in the frozen mountain ranges we became Witness to a procession of Otherworldly beings; the likes the hosts of Brevoy would not be able to Face. I pray that these were just by-Chance passing through but Note that more sinister denizens than the Stag Lord may call these reaches their Home.
At earliest Convenience, please accept this Woman of Poor Repute into your Custody.
Serving you in Grateful Vigilance
Jemini of Lebeda
Captain Walthon salutes Jemini with his orders. "We will send her with the next caravan. She is a vile woman. I've already had to discipline one of my men for spending too much time in her presence beyond what was necessary and prudent. It will be good to have her someplace more secure."
The party is going quite well. Oleg's initial investment turned quite lucrative, as the soldiers are spending their coin on copious amounts of ale. Svetlana and Ilyana are talking quite freely as if old friends, with Nicholas Jr. running from place to place in a tempest of excitement.
Oleg grimly gives his assessment to Verik about the dead trapper. "Doesn't surprise me. Get folks coming from his lands with gimp legs once every few months. Once tried to shoot me. I won't shed any tears over him or doubt that he did something to deserve it."
Tandlara watches Zander quietly as he recounts his tale, she doesn't nod or smile, simply watches him with her large sad eyes, letting him tell his tale to her. When Zander finishes they sit in silence for a moment. Then Tandlara goes over and kneels beside the burned man and hugs him, holding him tight and sharing her warmth and support, still she says nothing.
After the embrace she leans back and dabs at Zander's eye. 'No matter what happens, you have nothing to fear. Should you want to avoid these men for a few days, we can go on a 'hunting' trip. If you want to face them, you know we have your back. We are all there for you, what we share is greater than any family bonds, the bonds of comrade, of people who share the risk of death together, and happily spend peace together. You are never alone, borrow our strength if your wavers, and we will do the same.'
|
|
Verik nods to Oleg's words, "You are not wrong, he was clearly insane, and evil... I would try to seek out his victims relatives to give them a little peace, albeit with a deal of grief, but I am afraid that identification would be problematic... Best to leave the whole sorry business alone I think.
Now I think I've been able to puzzle out somethings about the creation of magical items, I was wondering if you might have certain materials available... But I will need to speak to the rest of the groups before I can commit to their purchase."
After going over the materials with Oleg Verik sets of to find Svetlana.
"Svetlana have you got a moment? Like I said before I was hoping I could enlist your aide in preparing a festival. Taxfest is an Abadarian festival, but in this case I would basically like to just plan a big party with various events and good food and drink. Get in as many of the locals as possible, that sort of thing..."
Glancing towards the doorway, Zander forces a smile, "You're right of course, but I can't just run away from this thing..." He pauses for a long moment, looking down at his mask. "Do you remember the dreams we all had in the Temple of Erastil? I dreampt that I was back in Brevoy with my mentor Lorek. One thing that he said to me was: "Don't forget where you came from." I think he meant that I need to accept this part of me, not keep running for it. I'm not saying I should march into Eagle's Watch and declare myself the heir to the throne, I'm not even sure what I am saying I should do, but I don't want to run any more."
"If we are going to start something down here and I'm to have a part in it, our names are going to be known and someone is going to find out who I am sooner or later. I don't feel like I can keep this a secret forever, but I have no idea what sorts of things are going to happen if I tell people. I mean, I know I can trust you to not treat me any differently knowing this, but how is Jemini going to react? And this new guy, Kesten? And what if news gets out and my family tries to kill me... or worse, what if they want to meet me? I don't even know what I'd do if I saw my father's face again..."
He lets out a heavy sigh and looks into the elven woman's deep black eyes, "I don't know Tandlara... what do you think I should do?"
Oleg nods. "I have some stuff in the back. Not a lot of demand for it in these parts." He goes back to preparing the items for sale, not particularly paying attention to the party beyond filling more orders for ale.
Svetlana grabs Verik in another hug. She seems to be the only person in the party who isn't hitting the ale, but her behavior is still quite excitable. "Of course! There aren't a lot of 'locals,' but I can send word to a few of them. I can probably wrangle up a dozen people or so. Taxfest is the 15th, right?"
Jhod comes up close, hearing of their party. "Taxfest, huh? Can't say I see much to celebrate about taxes, but Ol' Deadeye isn't opposed to a get-together. The more the merrier!"
The guard that was eyeing Berrin comes up to him, mug in hand. "Hello there. I'm Gadrick. Pleased to meet you." He takes Berrin's hand before he has a chance to react, shaking it slowly and a bit too long. He smiles and maintains steady eye contact for an uncomfortable length of time. "Looks like you've been out in the wilderness for quite some time. Must be dirty."
Reggie seems to be mixing well with the party. His health looks much better than it did when they found him in the pit. A few of the guards don't look remarkably fond of him, but the thylacine runs between everyone's legs sniffing every scent he can find. He tends to come back to Berrin frequently, yipping and barking in excitement.
Kesten returns to Jemini, looking a bit uncomfortable in the party. "It appears that your expedition is becoming quite the success. We haven't seen any bandits since you set out, though I've noticed more than one shipment of alcohol coming through the trading post. The merchants are pretty tight-lipped about where they're headed, but one of them told me that he was heading to the lake. I think that if you were to follow one, they might lead you straight to the Stag Lord's fort."
Ilyana approaches Taisper, mug in hand. She speaks in a quiet, almost conspiratorial tone. "Did you mean what you said earlier about justice? Do you think that we could talk to your prisoner, the woman bandit? I think she might have some knowledge of where my husband might be. There weren't any women in the group of bandits that took her, but I know every bandit in the region is working for the Stag Lord."
Taisper regards Ilyana for a moment, his gold eyes seeming to pierce to her very soul as he enters a strange sort of rapture. "Ilyana! Justice! Yes. I meant every word."
a test then this is a test face the Judged one and Hesitate are you strong enough inquisitor is your will iron
The moment passes and his face softens again. "Ilyana, you bet we can do that. I think it's a pretty terrific idea, actually, I wish I'd thought of it! Hahaa! I've actually talked to Kressle before and she's a little bit bawdy but that's okay, it takes all kinds, right? Hopefully she can be re- reuh- um, re-ha-bil-hit-ated at a p-prison somewhere. Do some good for society to make up for her crimes. C'mon, I'll show you where she is."
everyone else is busy i am on my own o keeper o lawgiver give me strength give me will
Hearing one of the Selected Ones' prayer, the Lawgiver sees fit to imbue Taisper with poise and calm, at least to get things started, filling his mind with grids and numbers, ledgers with black ink and laws respected and other Things of Great Beauty.
On the way over, Taisper makes sure to unload his crossbow to minimize temptation, and repeats the mantra inscribed on his new morningstar over and over to himself in his mind. Then he sidles up to the improvised holding cell containing the former bandit leader, with Ilyana at his side. "Kressle! Hi! You in there? Hey it's me, Taisper, remember me? This is my friend Ilyana, she wanted to come by and say hi, was wondering if maybe you'd seen her husband in the past." He turns to the settler. "Can you describe him to her?"
Kressle looks quite pleased despite being stuck in a cage. It seems that she is eating well, far better than Oleg or Kesten would allow. She even has a small mattress and a book. "Taisper, how could I forget? I've been dreaming about how bad you wanted to slam me with your big, bad morningstar."
Ilyana shakingly describes her husband. "My husband's name is Nicholas Flaxton. He's tall, same skin tone as I have, with dark hair and dark eyes. He's easy with a smile and a joke. The other bandits took him last month because we didn't have anything to pay them."
Kressle stands up and comes close to the bars. "Nicholas? Yeah, I saw him a few weeks ago. He was with Ayles's crew. So you're Ilyana? He wouldn't shut up about you and your little sweet child. Just to get him to stop talking, I took him into the woods and made him act like a man, if you catch my drift. He was reluctant, you see. Said he didn't want to be unfaithful. I told him that I would cut off his hands, then drag him back to that pitiful house and kill you and your bastard in front of him. He shut his eyes and cried a little bit, but he relented." She leans in close to Ilyana, only separated by a few bars. "He might swear otherwise, but I know he liked it. You're definitely a lucky woman, because I wanted some more afterwards."
Ilyana snaps as the tears fill her eyes at Kressle's taunts, grabbing her through the bars by the neck and pulling her into the bars. "You liar! You whore!" Kressle simply lets Ilyana choke her, a smile on her face despite its red color. The sounds of the party drown out the attempted murder, leaving only Taisper to react.
|
|
Turning pink again and spluttering a little Verik manages, "Ah, yes the 15th, that would be wonderful. I was also hoping to hire some workmen, I would like to begin work on a Church, would you and Oleg object to me selecting a plot of land nearby? I thought I could get things started with some of the coin I have now..."
He continues chatting with Svetlana for a while, trying to get a vague prediction of the numbers that might attend and the amount and cost of food and drink needed to cater to such numbers. Once they have some rough figures he takes his leave asking her to check what is available.
Eventually he seeks out Kesten and, "Excuse me Captain, I was wondering if I might hire some of your men for a time, only if you feel you could spare them at any point of course. I am hoping to begin construction of a Church, of Abadar, and it seems that your men would be ideal if they can be spared at all?"
After conversing with Kesten for a while, and trying to strike a bargain he heads of again purposefully to find Jhod.
"Excuse me Jhod wasn't it, Verik Jarrow - Priest of Abadar, might I speak with you for a time? I was wondering what your intentions are here? We are hoping to grow this little settlement, and you would certainly be a useful man to have around, the more healing the better. Eventually we are also hoping to set up some form of schooling to, I am not sure if that is up your alley, but if it is again your aide would be appreciated. This is all assuming you are not simply passing through of course."
Kesten nods his assent. "Sounds reasonable. Since they'd be working overtime on a non-permanent basis, I suggest a gold piece per man per day. If you're just looking for a basic structure, maybe 20' by 30' with some benches, they can get the timber from the woods to the south and have it brought here inside of a week with a four-man team. The actual cutting and building might take another two weeks. Of course, we could always get stone from the mountains, but that would be a lot longer and more expensive."
As Verik speaks with Jhod, the priest seems pretty open to the idea. "I'm not the most learned of fellows, but I can probably teach some squirts to read and write. More importantly, I can teach them to hunt and live off the land. I'm a settling-down kind of fellow, and this place seems as good as any for me. Oleg could use a sense of humor, but Svetlana is really great. I've already had to mend up a couple of the soldiers when they get too rowdy, so it's kind of like home already."
|
|
After he has finished with that Priest of Erastil he takes a drink and sketches out a few ideas for magical items. As his mind wanders his thoughts turn to Zander and his mask, and he wonders if he might enchant it... But no a mask is hardly desirable, must be uncomfortable, and Zander has to take it off to eat... A hat then, or maybe just a headband something discreet would probably suit Zander. If he could shroud his face in an illusion, an illusion of his old self perhaps? It would be almost as good as healing, almost...
He counts his coin again - a formality really - and costs out the materials he thinks he will need. The Headband he wants is too expensive so he sets out to seek Zander.
"Zander? Hey, sorry am I intruding? It's just that I think I can make you something that would hide your burns... I mean, not that I am saying you need to, but instead of the mask... I can create an item that would shroud you in an illusion, you could even choose to look like your old self... before... Ah, if you take my meaning... I think it would cost about 900gp. I just need to create a weave of illusion with a gold lattice, though silver might work to, I'm certain I can do it its relatively simple really."
...
There.
There...
There is a moment. A moment of perfect crystalline clarity when Taisper feels almost as if he has been blessed with foresight. The second Kressle's vile euphemisms and single-entendres begin slopping out of her mouth, it is utterly clear to him what she is going to do. Despite this prescience, the ferocity and suddenness of Ilyana's attack catch him off-guard.
As Ilyana cries and Kressle smiles his right hand flies instinctively down to the handle of his crossbow the weapon can be loaded in under 3 seconds from this position angle is not ideal quickest is through temple and down incurring most damage most painful is through carotid allowing victim to bleed out and listen as you explain they have been Judged and Damned are on their way to Hell and can Despair as they die.
In the end his mental conditioning saves him even as he fights against the instincts it has instilled in him. The same absolute clarity of mind and iron will that keeps him safe and focused in combat allows the will of Abadar to enter him. A single simple word echoes through the empty, ordered chambers of his soul...
"stop"
Stifling a sob, Taisper steps forward in one smooth motion and breaks Ilyana's grasp on Kressle's neck. Wrapping the woman's arms up he drags her bodily to the side of Kressle's frustratingly comfortable shack.
"no no no no no no, Ilyana. Ilyana!" Out of earshot of the foul-mouthed former bandit leader, Taisper pins the settler's arms to her sides and gives her a firm shake. He looks her in the eyes, and tears are rolling silently down his cheeks. His voice is thick from the effort not to cry. "Ilyana, No! You-- WE! We. Cannot do this. What she is saying, it is all lies. She tells lies, it is all she does. Tries to get a rise out of people, to make them lose their cool and try to fight when they should really kepe their heads. You cannot trust her...her filthy stories."
Taisper releases her, but continues to look her in the eye, making no effort to mask his own pain. "Ilyana please understand. No one wants her dead more than I do. It is only her use as a prisoner of...of war, I guess, that is keeping her alive. She is going to a city, now, there probably to be hung as soon as her usefulness has expired. I swear to you, though, were she to escape, or do actual harm and not just try to hurt you with blatant and ridiculous falsehoods, I would kill her without...without Hesitation." Taisper actually gets down on one knee in a rough approximation of a paladin's stance when swearing an oath and says "I swear it. I really do."
The golden-eyed teen stands back up. Now that he's settled, and as Ilyana seems to calm a bit, his speech loses its formality and slips into its customary laconic rhythms. "Ilyana, I promise you justice, but I also promise you that strangling Kressle through the bars of her prison, while she is helpless, that ain't Justice. That's just murder. And you're so much better than that. You have the most important thing in all the world, Ilyana; you have a family. And what's she got? Nothin'. She's so hollow inside she doesn't even understand that family could matter. Family's just a way to make people scared, is all she knows. A lever to use against good and caring folks like you, and like Nicholas and Oleg and Svetlana. You have commitment and love. She has nothing."
and he will NEVER BACK UNIQUE NEVER OPPORTUNITY AGAIN out in the
"Unf." Taisper seems to reel for a second, then shakes his head to clear it. He focuses on the frontier woman again. "So I tell you what. I'm real sorry, we shoulda probably never done this. I shoulda known better, and I really am sorry. Now... Why don't you head back to the party. Find Nicholas Jr. and hug him real close. I'll see if I can get any more out of her, though I'm not real hopeful. Everything's gonna be fine, I promise. We're heading back out there after just a short break, we'll find your husband and bring him back. He'll be fine, you'll see." He puts his hand on her shoulder and smiles warmly. "Remember everything you got. Because it's a lot."
Taisper stands in a sort of parade rest, putting his hands, which are shaking violently, behind his back.
|
|
"I was thinking of something a deal grander, maybe a central chapel with a small spire and two adjoining wings for a small school and a hospice. I would be prepared to have it built modularly, maybe the hospice first - priorities and all that. I plan to send to various branches of the church requesting acolytes, I am not sure if many or any will be available, but I think I could make a persuasive case. The Manual of City Building is one of our most sacred texts and I plan to send for a copy - hopefully that will be of a great deal of help."
"Won't most of them learn hunting and the like from their parents? I suppose its a useful skill set here, but I would want to make reading and writing a priority. I will look forward to speaking with you more on the matter. I'm planning to have a building constructed attached to the Church, without pushing an affiliation it is in Abadar's remit to encourage schooling. Would you be prepared to teach there for a time? I certainly would not be requiring the children, or even any adults interested in attending to worship Abadar, or be trying to convert them. But I hope to get some acolytes who could help with the teaching as well as tend the Church, so I would like to have them as part of the same structure. I know I am getting ahead of myself, but I would much rather over prepare..."
Ilyana simply breaks down and cries, holding on to Taisper for dear life. "He's not coming back, is he? She's just like all the others, just cruel and brutal. Nicholas is probably dead in a shallow grave, simply because they wouldn't know what else to do with a good man." She cries uncontrollably, almost collapsed in Taisper's arms.
Kressle coughs a bit and sits back down, utterly unconcerned with what she did to Ilyana. "I was this close," she says with her fingers less than an inch apart, "to getting out of this place. Maybe tomorrow. But seriously, she is right. Good men aren't a lot of use. Ayles tends to stick close to the fort, so you'll probably be able to find him if you follow the river like I said."
Kesten bursts in the door to their makeshift jail. "What's going on here? Did she try to escape?" He holds his sword out, pointing it straight at her. "What did I tell you last time? You attempt another escape and I'm cutting off your legs!"
The merriment is going in full-swing, Jemini enjoys the company - especially Svetlana - and although she isn't as sure a hand, she does a little to help out. Carry along more ale. Join the laughter as the raucous jokes go around. Quickly drag little Nicki along when he asks: "Uncle Verik, what is negotiable virtue?"
In one of the quieter moments, when she joins Oleg in the back ferrying forth some more liquor, she asks him: "Oleg! What do you think about owning a small inn? Svetlana could run the hospitality side of things at the inn - and you'd deal with the business and trade side." She smiles encouragingly at him, "I mention this because I am thinking of engaging captain Walthon to expand the facilities here. Something that the men can sleep in - something better than a bunch of tents. But... while they are at it, I think it would be prudent to build something that could eventually become an inn, or something similarly useful. I received word from my parents, and, well to put it bluntly, I expect that Oleg's Trading Post will become a bit busier over the next few months. Although it's already getting more crowded, hehe."
Taisper at first stands stock still as Ilyana hugs him, but then cannot help himself and returns the embrace, his big brother instincts kicking in. "It's okay...it's okay...we're gonna find him...it's okay..." He gives Kressle an unreadable look when she speaks of good men and Ayles' location. A thousand sharp retorts pass through his mind but he discards them all, knowing they'd be useless against the thick-skinned and foul-mouthed bandit.
When Kesten bursts in, Taisper nearly jumps out of his skin. "No, no escape, Kesten, nothing like that. Ilyana just wanted a little information, that's all, but Kressle you know ain't got a whole lot of politeness in her and she and Ilyana maybe had words. But anyway now we've got what we came for we'll get out of your hair. Thanks." Taisper guides Ilyana out of the jail as quickly as possible, giving Kesten a grateful look as he passes. Once outside, he steers the settler to the party, casting about desperately for Nicholas Jr., or anyone he can hand Ilyana gracefully off to so he can go get some air. The shaking in his hands has moved up to his arms, and it is getting more and more difficult to keep himself together.
|
|
Verik is enjoying himself hugely, having acquired a piece of wood he can use as an impromptu clipboard, he strolls around amiably questioning the soldiers and others gathered about any skills they might possess. For others ale might be required for a good time, but Verik would take a clipboard any day of the week!
"Lets see any of you fellows know your way about a forge? How about carpentry? We are going to need skilled folk, and I am sure I can talk Kesten into paying those who know what they are doing a bit more if you are willing to help out."
Berrin narrows his eyes in suspicion at the stranger. "Well met Gadrik. I'm Berrin, Berrin Myrdal." he says slowly. "Wilderness ain't so bad when you get used to it. Not much hot water or a chance for a bath though, but if you go rolling in the mud you'll get dirty. Leave the mud be, then not so much. Do I know you?"
Berrin tries to keep his cool but Gadrik is making him really uncomfortable.
Looking up as someone steps into the stable, Zander moves instinctually to put on his mask, but lowers it once he sees it is only Verik. After hearing the cleric's suggestion, he looks to Tandlara and back to Verik, "Could you really make something like that?" He looks back to his mask. "That would certainly make things easier. Wearing this thing all the time is no picnic... I don't think I could afford that just yet though... I only have about 460 or so saved up... Wait a second, since when did you learn to make things like that? I mean, it's not going to blow up or start shooting lightning bolts everywhere is it?"
|
|
Verik waves dismissively, "I've had a look at that cloak of Tandlara's and I've been puzzling over how it was done ever since. I am certain I have the right of it now, and since getting back here I've had the chance to sketch out the magical mechanics as it were - its really relatively simple, you just need expensive materials to bind the magic in place, accounting for the complexity of the spell and the resonance of the magical school, or schools you are planning to bind. Since this would be replicating a relatively minor spell its not difficult, I just need to take things nice and steady - it should take me about two days.
As for the coin, well I can lend you that easily enough, I can't make what I have in mind for myself until we get more coin anyway, and if I have enough money you will have enough to pay me back. So what do you say? I could make it as anything on your head really, a helmet, a headband, a circlet, a hat, even a mask, although I don't suppose that would appeal."
Seeing Ilyana look pale and withdrawn she makes for the woman. She takes her by the hand and pulls her aside slightly - away from the humming of the festivities - and hugs her tightly. Jemini can only guess at what happened, but seeing Taisper and Ilyana return from the direction of the prison gives her some idea at least. "It's okay, it's okay," she soothes, "can you tell me what happened?"
Zander sits for a moment slightly stunned by the thought of such a thing being a possibility. "Wow... well, yeah... I mean, that sounds great Verik. Let's give it a shot. I think a headband would probably be the best, definitely wouldn't want another mask." Now smiling, he stands up and helps Tandlara to her feet. [b]"Do you need anything from me to get started? Like... do you need to measure my head or something? I don't really know how these things work..."
|
|
"Great, I'll go and get the materials, I ought to be able to get started right away!" Verik enthuses. "I don't think I really need to measure your head, I'll probably use a kerchief or something as a base, we can see what Oleg has and find something that will suit."
Once they have found a suitable base item the cleric cheerfully sets about crafting his first magical item, first setting up a table with all of his materials laid out neatly in the guest house.
As soon as Jemini locks eyes on Ilyana Taisper feels relief wash over him. Oh. The best possible person I could have found. Thank you Abadar. Blessed is the Master. He lets Jemini take the settler from him and as the women embrace he begins striding over past the guesthouse and around it, heading for the doors. air gotta get some air He ends up sort of half-running out the door, at the end, covering the last 20 feet or so in a quick burst of speed and then around the corner and just a ways into the woods, most of his upper body trembling at this point.
The inquisitor tries to sit on a rock but misses and lands flat on his back staring up at the stars. His mouth works soundlessly as he lays there and trembles. His eyes water up but he surprises himself by not crying, though that's what it feels like his insides are doing. He lets the voices wash over him in a mad wave, crushing out his consciousness. The Master Hunters. His parents. His brother and sister. The priests, the clerics. The people of his neighborhood. Verik. Berrin. Tandlara. Jemini. Zander. Oleg. Svetlana. Kressle.
Kressle.
Master Hunter Sindelle. The Bounty Hunter. All of them. His mind is a babble of sounds and tongues and harsh words. Not 100' away, the party continues. He wants to go back to it, but it wouldn't be smart. Reality feels like a strange play. She didn't die on cue. She missed her cue.
Taisper lays there, quiet as the dead, and waits for the sounds of celebration to die down so he can return in peace and not have to face anybody. He won't be ready for that for a while. He passed the test tonight, but it was so hard. So very, very hard. how do they do this all the time?
The woods are blessedly cool.
With the celebration beginning to die down, the soldiers return to their duties. Oleg sketches out a proposal and shows it to Verik, having apparently done the calculations about the creation of a larger inn and finding it feasible. He offers to send word with the next northbound trader that they are looking for a builder and perhaps some skilled labor. With a grunt, he leaves Verik alone to craft the item in peace.
Ilyana eventually calms down, morosely nursing a mug of ale. She remains tight-lipped beyond telling Jemini that she holds little hope of her husband being alive. She has little interest in conversation, nodding and tersely responding when anyone approaches her. Even Svetlana can't seem to get her spirits up.
Over in the woods, Taisper pops his eyes open, feeling the presence of someone watching him. Nicholas Jr stands only a few feet away, looking down at him. "Hello." The young boy appears curious about him. "Why is my mommy crying?"
Taisper regards the boy. One thousand and one things go through his head in a flash. He counts them. The moment is a day, is a year, is an age.
duty. do your job. this ridiculous self-pity must end. be no more a boy.
Feeling a little frayed at the edges but otherwise basically -- surprisingly -- sound, Taisper slowly sits up in a smooth, clean motion. The boy is so small that the inquisitor is at eye level with him even sitting. He looks in his eyes for a long moment, searching for something. Eventually he smiles.
and who really am I
"She's scared, Nicholas. That's really the only reason anyone ever cries, I think."
Taisper takes off his right glove. The relative smoothness of his hands is a stark contrast to the battered leather of the protective gear. He reaches into his pocket and pulls out one of the rubies that used to be the eye of an earth elemental. Though no longer animated, and not worth any coin, as such, it is still a shining stone possessed of an alien shape and cut, lovely and mysterious to look at. He gives the gem to Nicholas, Jr.
i know it could if
"Here. For luck." He raises his eyebrows and nods conspiratorily, giving the kid a wry smile. He picks up his glove as he stands. "C'mon. Let's go see her." Taking Nick's hand, the inquisitor leads him back into the trading post, and together they walk over to where Ilyana sits. Taisper gestures at Ilyana and nods significantly at Nicholas, Jr. The boy darts forward and sort of snuggles himself into a big hug with his mother, wanting to comfort both of them at the same time and also unsure what else to do in this huge strange world of adults and adult concerns.
Taisper sits cross-legged on the ground in front of the two of them and looks up and gives them a lopsided smile. He says nothing, but takes off his other glove and sets both down in front of him, then takes Ilyana's hand and clasps it tightly between both of his, and just sits with her.
Ilyana looks adoringly at Taisper, clearly grateful for his presence. Holding Nicholas tight with one hand, she holds Taisper's in the other. Wordlessly, she thanks him with tear-filled eyes. After a few moments, the young boy withdraws from the embrace. She takes the opportunity to wipe her eyes. Nicholas Jr. presents his new treasure to his mother. "Look what Ty-sper gave me!"
Ilyana laughs a bit and looks it over. "Did you thank him? It's a very generous gift."
Nicholas Jr. looks panicked for a moment and turns to Taisper. "Oh, thankyou! Ireallyloveit!" With a smile, he rushes to the young man and hugs him, standing while Taisper simply sits. Ilyana watches them, a smile on her face at her son's boundless enthusiasm. Her eyes move to Taisper, still filled with gratitude for helping them through such a difficult time.
Sarenrae, please offer this poor woman solace and comfort. She's suffering the loss of her husband and is hardening herself against his loss. The last flicker of hope is dying in her, but - for her sake - I pray that we can still rescue her husband from the bandits. I just ask that you give her the strength to not let go of her husband just yet.
'I don't have the answers, Zander. I wish I did. I'll I can do is be there to help you.' The elf woman hugs him again, before Verik arrives.
As Verik begins talking about the creation of magic items, Tandlara nods her head along. 'A long time ago, I created items of power for my allies as we went to face... Well.' She is queit for a moment, her eyes sad and distant.
'But I could give you some tips and pointers. I probably couldn 't do it myself, but I remember many little tricks, I might be able to help you in your first few attempts.'
|
|
Verik smiles - although he looks a touch dubious - "Ah, that would be great Tandlara, I would certainly appreciate it... Only, I ah, don't plan to use a lot of, um, bones and feathers, I am sure its the same principles and all that I just want a slightly different asthetic. But it would be great to have a second opinion, here take a look at the plans here, I think I can make a lattice like this that will allow me to keep the item fairly narrow, but if Zander wants to use a ha or something I can just splay it out like so and run a line of dweomer around the brim... I'm going to set up in the guest house shortly."
Once the festivities are coming to an end, Jemini looks for a chance to chat with Oleg again. "You seem happy Oleg, good day for business, ey?" She smirks as she sees a small but satisfied grin on his face. "But there's still more chance for business. Did you notice the fine light armor that Zander now wears? I would like for you to try and make one available for me to purchase - a mithril shirt. I understand that this isn't an easy item to get hold off, but I think you'll have some luck with the merchants that hail from Lebeda. Do you think you could manage, and if so, how long before it might arrive? Oh! I can pay part of it in advance, I understand that it isn't easy for you to just commit that much wealth into purchasing just one item." She looks hopefully at Oleg.
"Hey, Nick buddy, you're welcome. You make sure you hang on to that now, and Abadar will know, and all the power of the Master will be with you. Can't get better luck than that." Taisper winks at the boy, then stands. "I'm gonna get some rest now, reckon you two should do the same. C'mon I'll walk you to your bunk."
As they walk the short distance Taisper says quietly to Ilyana "Your husband's out there, Ilyana, I'm sure of it. we'll deliver him, and we'll deliver Justice. You ask Svetlana and Oleg; we did it for them. You just gotta have faith. You gotta have hope. Don't give up. People like you giving up is what the Kressles of the world want. It's what they live for, if you can even call what they have 'life.'"
Once they're settled, Taisper turns to go to his own bed back in the guest house . "I'll see you two in the morning. You sleep well now." With that, the inquisitor returns to his own bunk, lays down, and collapses into an exhausted slumber.
'Oh of course, one must add their own flair to such things. Though vole blood and sighleaf greatly aid in magicks of the illusory variety, to mix the alloy with but a flavour of them should be of help in creating the item. It may even allow the item to made more quickly if you'd like, though perhaps we shouldn't rush it. I'll get my pouch of fetishes and sympathetic components.' Tandlara smiles at Verik and retrieves her magical apparatus with a wink to Zander as she passes.
Giving Tandlara a final excited smile, Zander dons his mask and follows the Cleric outside. Spotting Oleg and Jemini talking away from the main group, Zander approaches. "Hey Oleg, I was wondering, do you think I could buy some larger sheets of paper and some decent inkpens from you? I've been keeping a map of our travels so far, but it's all been pretty sketchy. I'm thinking it would be nice to have some extra room to label landmarks and draw some of the features in greater detail and everything."
|
|
"Oh, er, great." Verik says, rather lamely, as Tandlara moves off to collect what sound suspiciously like a bag of offal. Giving Zander a pained look he adds, "I'm sure it will be fine, I would never make anything with an unpleasant odor, or of an unsanitary nature. On the other hand with Tandlara's help I think I should be able to finish it in a day with no difficulty - I think I could do it on my own to, but best not to get ahead of myself it will be good to have someone to double check things - even if she does have, ah, unusual tastes."
"Zander! I was looking for you and your maps earlier; splendid!" Jemini point to the roughly explored area and asks Oleg: "We'll eventually have to look at these areas too, do they ring any bells for you? Maybe you know of more hinterlanders like Orlivanch that make their space in the wilds here."
Oleg goes into the back and pulls out Zander's request, handing him 10 large pieces of paper and 3 inkpens. "Don't worry about the charge. You've brought in a lot of business, and they were basically just taking up space."
At Jemini's request, he writes down a note. "Mithril's a bit difficult to come by. I'll have to send a request up to House Garess, since they're allied with the dwarves. It'll probably take two weeks, maybe less if the weather is good. Usually costs 1,100 gold, though with a good word from Kesten, we can probably get a good deal. Anything else you want?"
"I hope we don't run into anyone else like Orlivanch ever..." mutters Zander with a chill, remembering the basement below the mad trapper's cabin.
Accepting the paper and pens from Oleg, Zander thanks him profusely before ducking away from the party to the quiet of the guest house. Seeing that Verik and Tandlara have already occupied the main table in the room, Zander sets up on the floor and begins the process of copying his map to the new paper.
Oleg shakes his head. "There's a lot of ornery folks who don't like to be bothered. None like him, though. Just watch out for Bokken. Makes a good potion, but crazier than a loon. Lives a day's walk or so to the southeast. Most folks lives a nit further from the mountains, that direction."