Henk salutes the bard in return for the drink. Hey there. Would you perhaps know the Hedgehog Song?
She watches Hornan move off toward the blonde elf and bids him a silent farewell. The blonde across the room had smiled in her direction and she smiled back and bowed her head just a little in acknowledgement. The other elven female seemed more of a happy sort and it did not surprise Rain that males were drawn to such an easy disposition. Rain gave an internal sigh and looked back as the hairless man with the scythe approached and thanked her for the drink.
Rain gives the new male a faraway smile, half lost in thought. "The establishment has many patrons this day and I did not want your order to be missed in the noise and rush." She observes the deep shade of blue of his eyes, trying to gauge the man through them.
"What is your name, sir? I am Rain."
Sunny watches the approaching fellow as he trades the blue haired Elf's company for her own, she twists a little as he comes to stand with Variele and herself. After a moment of his silence, she shifts her grip upon her mug and offers a hand towards him,
"Hey-YA there!" (^_^)
The tavern's door flies open - as if Gozreh himself inhaled for a month then poured the entirety of his divine life force into a single breath intended solely to create as much commotion as possible in the Formidably Maid's common room.
A tall, dark-skinned Mwangi man, dressed in tattered garments, soiled with sweat from years of hard labor, observes the door on it's backswing.
His teeth flash brilliantly, forming an apologetic smile that a street-beggar might grant a Taldor noble as he parted with the man's coin-purse. A deep, rumbling chuckle follows.
Then the Mwangi speaks, his baritone voice audible enough for anyone sleeping in the neighboring inn to hear.
"Ah! I.. am sorry. I be used to forcin' de bulkhead against 'de rough weather.... not 'dese fancy doors."
The large man sheepishly steps away from the wooden door as it closes on it's own, clearly tip-toeing to the bar and trying to draw no further attention to himself.
Awkwardly, as if he is a man who has never purchased a thing in his life, he reaches into what passes for a pocket and produces several coins, holding them in a large, weathered hand.
His eyes glance about at the others arrayed about the bar, clearly pleading for assistance.
Hmm… The one called “Sunny” was filled with a brighter, teasing mirth; yet the one called “Rain” has a darker and more subtle touch to her mischief – do elven names have significance to match their personalities, or was this mere coincidence?
”Ah – adventure? Yes – well, to be fair - that does have its lure, I should think. But I feel that there are more practical reasons to join a ship. Most noteworthy are the many opportunities that present themselves to sailors that ordinary folk do not have,” I say frankly.
”I have known many folk who have spent their whole lives working in hard conditions with no chance to advance to something better; but a sailor, if skilled – can with skill and some luck take prizes of great value and with that wealth they are able to elevate themselves to something noteworthy,” I add seriously as I unconsciously tighten my belt around a grumbling stomach as the presence of so much hot food distracts me a bit.
”I have skills as a surgeon, this is true – and have spent some time on ships before, though I am not so much of an expert as many of the gray beards in this place, I am sure. But between that modest skill on ships which I possess, as well as my ability to aid the sick and injured – I hoped to find gainful employment on a vessel and so seek my fortune, and earn something better.”
”As for yourself – you mentioned one of...
"A surgeon is necessary aboard a vessel and though I am no seer I do not foresee you being without employment for long, Flynn. Good surgeons are in demand but scarce on the islands. And, you make a fair point regarding the practicality of joining a ship's crew." Her smile is sincere but quiet, without the previous mischief creasing the corners.
"I was raised in a small fishing town furthest north. The settlement is a diverse one for its paltry population. If you believe me strange for I do not carry on with airs and arrogance, it is because I was not raised to believe I was another creature's better like Elven folk are oft to act. Is that a suitable answer to your inquiry?" The teasing was back in her voice as she looked upon the doctor with direct turquoise gaze.
"I am better with more direct questions, Flynn. Then I know exactly the question you are asking", lifting her mug of wine and toasting him casually.
While talking with the two males on either side of her at the bar, she notices a newcomer, the tall dark-skinned one dressed in very worn clothing. She had heard his declaration regarding the tavern doors and she privately chuckled at the sheer volume of the man's voice. Rain noticed his hesitation once he was by the bar, coin in hand.
Politely excusing herself from the immediate conversation, she turns to the dark-skinned one and briefly addresses him, "The tavern is brimming this day. What is your drink of choice, friend?"
Karu smiled broadly as the elven woman approached him.
She is so beautiful... and skinny! She must be hungry too?
As she spoke, the Mwangi turned the right side of his face to her slightly, straining to hear as he carefully watched her lips forming the words. It is clear he has trouble hearing.
Ah! Yes, 'de drink! I would like that very much!"
Nodding, he pushes several coins into her hand and waits, while smiling patiently like a gentleman.
Rain is a little amused since she does not know what to order for him. She asks again, but slowly, so the newcomer can understand her,
"What do you drink? Ale, mead, rum, wine, water ....? Then I will order for you", bestowing upon the man an encouraging smile.
Karu nods with considerable enthusiasm at the hungry elf woman's offer and accompanying smile.
"Yes! Very good! Ale, mead, wine and water!"
Should I order food *from* her or *for* her? Does she work in the tavern?
Slightly embarrassed that he is unable to discern if the elf is a considerate patron, or the Formidably Maid has significantly improved in the hiring standards of it's barmaids, Karu boldly asks the question on his mind.
"Are you d'help here? If so, 'den 'dis place be Karu's new favorite tavern in Port 'P."
Hehehe...
I sure do mate, I sure do.
Drumming the table with both hands Hans starts the song.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3yJz8u6dyGY
"Hello miss" Hornan says while extending his hand to greet hers,
"My name is Hornan Fletcher, what do they call you?"
Sunny giggles finding something Hornan has said amusing, though at his proffered hand she again puts down her drink and enthusiastically shakes his hand between both of hers.
"Folks call me 'Sunny'." She informs Hornan, "T'is as close an appellation as any t'whut m'name be in'a speach of the kin." She informs him brightly.
"This be Variele," She points to said Elf "And we be gettin' t'know each other jus' as new as yerself's introduction." She finishes by picking up her mug and again taking a sip, deftly licking her lips clean of Rum again. (^_^)
At hearing some-one else' speech around the bar Sunny ears seem to 'pick up' and her eyes begin to dance over all around the people filling up in the tavern as she searches for what ever has now caught her interest.
Sunny nods in response to Horan's comments about the tavern, though her eyes continue to search for some-one amongst the crowded room. She leans closer to Variele,
Very drunk Hans seems excited on the prospect of being given money freely.
Ships, who needs ships! Why did I waste my time at the sea? The ships can have the sea, the sharks and me bloody foot, Im going to stay in this tavern and earn a fortune!
Seijiro gravitates over toward the performer and hums along quietly with the song. When it's over he toasts the bard and offers a couple of copper for the performance, unable to match Hornan's generosity.
"Thankee for a right cheery song, sir," he says, with a smile. Now that the music is over for a moment at least, he contemplates speaking to the crowd as a whole.
How do I ask a roomful of strangers a question? It would seem impolite. Perhaps I should approach them one at a time? Except none of them look like the hiring kind.. Perhaps the one with the money, but no, he's got his eye on the woman and probably wouldn't like the interruption. I'll watch him and if he looks like he's free, I'll talk to him then.
He continues to wander about the bar some, seemingly a bit drunk, he staggers from time to time... bumping into the occasional patron, usually those who are deep in their cups. When this happens he apologizes most sincerely and moves on his way quickly.
He continues to wander about the bar some, seemingly a bit drunk, he staggers from time to time... bumping into the occasional patron, usually those who are deep in their cups. When this happens he apologizes most sincerely and moves on his way quickly.
"Ay, Watch yourself Red! careful who yea go an runnin' into yeah?" Dhaaven's drink spilling slightly as Seijiro passes by, he glares at the young man, bearing his teeth and growling. As quickly as his face contorted into the foul grimmace, he returns to grinning, and chuckles. "I'm foolin with ye, though. All's fine, I'm Dhaaven, who in the Nine are you eh?"
Not quite waiting for a response, Dhaaven, down what's left of his swill, and says, "Why dontcha drink that down and order us up another round? Ya gotta loosen yerself up, have a chat or somethin with a few of the folk here, c'mon!"
He steps from his place, and throws an arm over Rain's shoulderand grins at the dark Mwangi man "This lovely li'l thing here is Rain, and she ain't no serving wench, sorry to say. she's just a nice sort of lady." then more to her than Karu he adds "A little nosey to some, but goes on ignoring a smaller man stinding right there, Huh?" This the sort ya like, eh?
He again waves at Seijiro, "Red! come on with some drinks! got some folk to int'rduce!
More quietly, "Who're you?" he asks the dark skinned Mwangi he's interrupted.
Rain laughs at the dark-skinned man's choices of drink -- settling for all she had offered! She orders him one drink to start and a meal in case he is hungry.
"My friend, I am no barmaid, just one of the patrons of this fine tavern. I was ordering a round of drinks for my new friends when I saw you standing by the bar and offered to order one for you as well. No harm and thank you for the compliment", giving the hairless, dark-skin man an amiable smile.
When the other stranger came, throwing his arm over her shoulder (even though she was indeed taller than him -- it was a funny sight), she shrugged it off casually for she did not like to be handled without permission. But she smiled at the man lest she offend him and offered, "Well, sir, it seems you are at an advantage. You know my name but I am ignorant of yours. So let us be properly introduced. I am Rain and you are?" extending her hand to the new human before her.
The music was gradually increasing in mirth and tempo and she found herself enjoying the tune. I should be used to places where males outnumber females, she privately reflected, trying to get through this day without altercation of any kind. With this amount of drink flowing, it will be a miracle if any of us come through this alive.
Out of the corner of her eye, she catches a look and turns to find the tall Hornan watching her. She meets his eye and observes him with an intense turquoise gaze. The contact did not last overly long and she returned her attention to her present companions, waiting to find out the names of the two currently drinking beside her.
As the tumble-haired youth stumbles against the tall, brown skinned Elven lass he realities she has not pockets.
She squeaks suddenly and then giggles as Seijio nudges past her.
(^_~)
"I'm called Seijiro, Dhaaven... nice ta meetcha." He gulps down some of his drink with a little bit a grimace, and orders another round, one for himself and one for Dhaaven...
"Hullo, Rain." He bows deeply, and then hesitantly takes her hand and shakes it gently in Inner Sea fashion, blushing a deep red as he does so. "Call me Seijiro, or 'Jiro for short."
Luckily Sunny, while she may suspect, doesn't actually notice the attempt at finding a pocket or a pouch.
"Excuse me, pretty lady," he says as he bumps into Sunny and causes her to squeak and giggle. Seijiro blushes at the squeak, and for a little bit, as attention is called to him, doesn't bump into any more people for a little bit... He seems a bit less drunk perhaps?
Everyone here seems so friendly... for a bunch of sailors and scalawags. Maybe I don't need to find a new berth right away. I could make a living here for a bit til I outwear my welcome at least.
Sunny gives 'Jiro a wink and an equal swat for good measure. (^_~)
Here's my submission, Valeros Jaloksin Gillman Oracle.
CN Gillman Oracle 1 (Waves)
Curse: Blackened
Str 14
Dex 12
Con 14
Int 13
Wis 11
Cha 16
Traits: Peg Leg (Campaign), Stormrunner, Resilient
Skills and Feats: tbd
1. What position do you see yourself eventually in on a ship?
- Ship's surgeon/healer. Oracle build flows nicely into that.
2. How do you feel about piracy in general? (This includes stealing, killing, plundering, etc.)
- Valeros has no problem with piracy. Born and raised in the Shackles, it’s always been just a way of life as far as he’s seen.
3. Which campaign trait are you selecting and why?
- Peg Leg. As a Gillman of the Waves, Valeros has spent most of his time in and around water. With all of that, accidents are bound to happen.
Where was your character born?
- In the Shackles, specifically in the town of Drenchport.
Who raised him?
- His mother raised him till he was a young man before she passed away.
What was happening in the region when your character was growing up?
- There wasn't anything too large although there was a period of time when the weather was especially bad coming in off the Eye of Abendego.
Does your character have any relatives?
- None living now.
Motivation
What are your character’s immediate goals? What would he like to do in the coming year?
- Valeros is looking to make a name for himself as a pirate. Being a bit of an outsider due to his race, he knows that becoming a respected pirate is the quickest way for him to overcome his hardship.
What are his long-term goals?
- Retire some day a wealthy man.
What type of person would be his ideal mate?
- Someone in love with the sea as he is. Someone willing spend their life on the water.
Who is his patron deity? Is he a devout worshiper?
- Valeros doesn’t have a specific deity he prays to, being an Oracle has left him somewhat outside the normal church hierarchy although he does give honor to Besmara and Gozreh, as any sailor would.
Is he a devout member of any nonreligious cause?
- Valeros isn't a member of any cause as of right now although he'd be open to them if presented. He does have a strong sense of national pride in the Shackles though.
Is there any race, creed, alignment, religion or the like against which he is strongly prejudiced?
- He has a particular hatred of the sahuagin due to their close association to sharks.
What is his greatest fear?
- Being trapped away from the water, having to live somewhere like Osirion or one of the other desert like countries.
What is the one task he absolutely refuses to do?
- None have come up to-date although I'm sure he'll find something.
Idiosyncrasies
What is your character’s motto or favorite saying?
- The sea gives and she takes away.
What is his favorite color?
- A deep royal blue cause it reminds him of the sea.
Describe what he would wear if money were no object?
- Somewhat tight waterproof pants/breeches as he’d be in the sea often. Other than that, nothing much as he’d want to feel the water on his skin.
What is his favorite food? Drink?
- His favorite food is squid. He doesn't have a particular drink of choice although he does prefer clean water.
What is his favorite animal?
- Pretty much most sea mamalls, dolphins, whales, etc.
What habits of his friends annoy him most?
- Those who don't show an adequate amount of respect for the ocean.
What well-known media figure from sports, movies or politics most closely resembles your character?
- Physically, Kevin Costner from Waterworld but not character wise as he's a bit whiney.
What would be his theme song?
- Murmaider by Dethklok
If his friends were to write his epitaph, what would it be?
- He lived his life as free as the sea itself.
What would be his job in modern society?
- He’d be an oceanic scientist/researcher, studying sea life, etc.
Introduction Questions
Do you have any nicknames, street names, titles, or aliases?
- Some people call him Gill due to his amphibious nature.
What is your full birth name?
- Valeros Jaloksin.
Where do you live?
- Currently residing in Port Peril although originally from Drenchport.
Why do you live there?
- It's the best place an aspiring pirate can hope to be.
What is your citizenship status?
- A loyal and proud member of the Shackles.
What is your most obvious blessing or strength?
- Growing up on and around the sea, Valeros’s ability to breath water and swim like a fish are his strengths.
What is your most obvious flaw or weakness?
- The need to be around water or face eventual death is certainly the most obvious.
Was there any event or cause to cause these weaknesses?
- Nope, just a racial weakness he’s had since birth.
Physical Traits
What is your general body type, frame, bone structure, and poise?
- Valeros is a solidly built man, with a lean frame from hours of swimming a day.
What is your skin colour?
- A deep tan from hours in the water under the sun.
What is your hair colour?
- Dark brown.
What is your hair style?
- He wears is long and loose.
Do you have any facial hair?
- No.
What is your eye colour?
- A deep green.
Does it change?
- No.
How attractive are you?
- Valeros is a fairly handsome man although his personality is more what draws the opposite sex in.
What is your most distinguishing feature?
- His gills as well as the slight webbing between his fingers and toes.
Do you have any scars, tattoos, or birthmarks?
- Valeros's hands and arms are blackened and shriveled, as if he'd been severly burned in a fire. That and he's missing his left leg which has been replaced with a peg.
What is your handedness (left/right)?
- Right.
Do you resemble some currently known person?
- Not really.
Do you wear a uniform?
- No.
What kind of clothing do you wear?
- Minimal clothing that tends to be water resistant or proof, good for swimming.
History
Where is your homeland?
- The Shackles.
Did you have any childhood friends?
- A few but as a gillman, most of the children quickly distanced themselves from him.
What conflicts might arise from your past?
- None so far.
Do you have any sort of criminal record?
- Not yet.
Family
Who were your parents?
What did your parents and/or foster parents do for a living?
- Valeros never knew is father. His mother was a fisherwoman.
Are they still alive?
- Mother no. Father don't know.
Personality/Beliefs
Do you, or did you, have any role models?
- The Master of the Gales was an impressive figure in Drenchport but not exactly a role model for Valeros.
Do you have any great rational or irrational fears or phobias?
- He has a fear of deserts and dehydration.
What, if anything, would it take for you to be able to overcome this?
- Magical aid.
How do you react when this fear manifests itself?
- Seek the nearest body of water he can find, even if it's filthy or hazardous.
Are you willing to discuss, or even admit to, the situation?
- Yes.
What are your attitudes regarding material wealth?
- Money can't buy happiness but it makes it easier to attain so the more the better.
Do you have any unusual or nervous mannerisms, such as when talking, thinking, afraid, under stress, or when embarrassed?
- No.
What is your most treasured possession?
- The trident he has which is supposedly from his father.
Do you have a good luck charm?
- No.
Describe your worst nightmares.
- Being on a world without an ocean. Being trapped in a desert. Being eaten by a shark.
As the elf woman confirms she is in fact a patron and orders food, Karu flushes red for a moment, then promptly raises a large hand to interrupt the actual barmaid.
"And something for 'dis girl here t' eat. Stew, maybe?"
A hearty stew would help 'dis one. She be lookin' like a timid wind could blow her out t' sea.
Karu continued to wear his broad smile as another new-comer, a short yet well-groomed man named Dhaaven approached and attempted to coral the elf woman he now knew as Rain.
Karu closed his eyes for the briefest moment and inhaled. He felt the music but could not hear it over the roaring of the ocean in his ears. Instead, he imagined each crescendo to the be the beating of a drum. His back ached at the thought, muscle memory reminding him that oars did not pull themselves. Despite being in a tavern, it smelled not unlike a boat - the sweat of men liberally accented with alcohol and the nearby sea.
He opened his eyes again and remembered being asked his name. Ensuring his grin was wide enough span the distance of Jeopardy Bay, he nodded to the two.
"Karu. 'Dat be me name."
He considered both their names and their meaning - and imagined a cleansing downpour flushing the filth of the port-side town out to sea. Karu welcomed rain, as it always had a way of freshening up things. His grin yielded to a hearty chuckle at the joke he thought, but did not speak.
"What be bringin' de Rain to Port P?"
"A pleasure and an honor, Rain," Dhaavan says, gently taking the blue-haired elf's hand and kissing it with a jovial and conspiratorial grin. She's no pretty little girl what is sent all a'flutter by a wink and a kiss. No, not the type to fall for the tricks and charms of a rake. She's more fun that that! With an overly-exaggerated bow, he introduces himself, "I am called Dhaaven, a Varisian wanderer and Artist-Ink Master Extraordinaire!"
Calling to his "friend" that he brought in, Dhaaven yells, "Oye mind getting another round for the mates? Good man!" adding with a whisper, "More rum for the ladies yeah? You know you want to." By the time the man returns having bought another round, Dhaaven has polished off Seijiro's generous contribution to his own inebriety.
"Thanks for the swill Jiro. Yer a good man. A true Gentelman or I ain't never saw one before!
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Sunny grins at Variel's introduction, though as he finishes she does quickly glance down to see if his feet are indeed still wet. (^_~) As he finishes she turns adroitly, places her mug upon the bar and continues her spin to face him -allowing all a full view of her figure as she pirouettes.
Variel does indeed take a quick look at Sunny as she does her turn. Wow, first port after getting my feet wet and here is one be of those woman I heard stories about. Must be my lucky day.
Upon facing Variele again, she replies,
"M'name be 'Sunny' t' those here abouts." And she extends a hand towards him in greeting, thrusting it forward as is striking an oar into the water. Once clasped, she grips his with both of hers and shakes them up and down, adding such vigor that she herself is bouncing a little as she lets his hand go.
"My kin be from a' island off t' th' East a-ways from here." And she waves a hand absently in that direction even as she explains. "Where be it you call home, then?" She asks blinking her large eyes at him with interest and expectation. As the Bar-keep sets two more mugs upon the counter Sunny shifts to afford both the cup as well as Variele her attention and for a moment quickly transfers the contents of her original mug to join the new. While tipping one content into the other her gaze drifts across the room and meets that of Rain, to whom she gives her usual bright smile.
That is a long story but the short of it is I have no home and no family that i know of. I grew up some few days sailing east of here. Some day I hope to find out more about them. But that's a story for another day. Not a story for a drink at the bar and music in the air. Definitely not a story when in the company of a beauty such as yourself.
"Well, as fer why I be here? T'is th' first big place me boat whut I hitched m'self to did come."
Well fortune smiles upon me that t dropped you here with me. I must say this place does well as the business is quite brisk. Do you know anyone else here?
@Hornan: No need for equipment now but if selected you will want to do equipment for your sheet. You MAY get the chance to get some of it back. ;-)
Updated submission list:
Martial:
Rain Taneththir Elven Freebooter Ranger (Preselected)
Sunny Elven Martial Artist Monk
Henk Human Fighter
Hornan Fletcher Human Sea Reaver Barbarian
Variel Nightstorm Elven Magus
Skill-monkey:
Horatio Flynn: Human Gunslinger (Preselected)
Galego Hans, Human Dirge Bard
Seijiro Kitsune Pirate Rogue
Arcane:
Dhaavan Human Tattooed Sorcerer, Infernal Bloodline (Preselected)
Sasha Neville Demon-spawn Tiefling Sanguine Bloodline
Divine:
Suuktidi Human Cleric of Gozreh
Sko Human Druid (Shark Shaman)
Noche'Wa Oread Aquatic Druid
Karu Kintabu Human Oracle of Waves
Valeros "Gill" Jaloksin Gillman Oracle of Waves
Please let me know if I missed anyone. I am really enjoying the RP and you are all making this really tough. I think I am going to close recruitment early since I have a ton of submissions already. I will close recruitment tonight at 10pm and I will have my selections done by tomorrow at 10pm at at the latest. That said, if you are lurking and interested in submitting do so now as it is not too late!
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Sunny nods in response to Horan's comments about the tavern, though her eyes continue to search for some-one amongst the crowded room. She leans closer to Variele,
** spoiler omitted ** She whispers.
In elven, Quite true miss Sunny. The dialects they use do leave something to be desired. I know a fair number of languages but it always surprises me how someone can speak in such a way as to leave the listener wondering which language was just used. The jargon of some of these people is almost a language unto themselves. I am still getting use to it myself.
Hoping to draw the delightful and popular elf away from the rest of the crowd, Variel extends his hand to her. Perhaps you would be interested in a dance with this lively music playing. I am sure that we would make quite a pair twirling around. And it would be a great sign to the rest if they see my arm around her waist. Not a bad idea chance, I hope she accepts.
Perform dance Taking the hand Variel gracefully leads the charismatic Sunny around the room to the delight of the crowd. Variel tries to avoid any of the guys that reach out to steal Sunny away from him. It may not be the best performance but one that is acceptable by the bar occupants Finishing the dance with a flourish, they end the dance back at the bar. Variel is slightly flushed but you don't think it's from the exertion of dancing. In fact he is not even breathing hard.
Turning to Horan after the dance, Thank you good sir for the lovely excuse to dance with this enchanting lady. Let me also be one to buy you a drink in appreciation. One good turn deserves another.
Vareile replied with much stuff. (^_^)
"Ah...as t'knowin' peoples? Well there's yourself an' Rain an' 'Jiro an' Karu as names I be hearin'." And she gives Variele a mischievous grin, "But I must truly say I dun't rilly know any of them truly...yet" (^_~)
"Aye an' as fer a dancein'? O' 'course I would!" She agrees almost instantly to his suggestion, though she also looks for a place where she can put down her back-pack...Then makes her decision and skips over to Rain,
Suny allows herself to be swung about the room.
Though she gives her all and throws herself enthusiastically into the endeavor she is more spontaneity then skill,
"I must admit we has more drums and fire sides t'do our dancin' about." She confides to Variele and laughing at the fun and spectacle she's had skipping over to Rain and swapping Variele for her back-pack. (^_~)
She smiles and nods to the people gathered around Rain,
"Hey-ya there! Well met t'ye." She says by way of introduction. Something about Karu seems to catch her attention and she steps closer to the tall Mwangi man,
"I be 'avin' a cousin who talk wid de same way like you do. She be of de sea 'erself. She be known as Fa'doum by way of you peoples, maybe you 'ave 'erd of her?" She asks Karu loudly to be heard over the buzz and merriment of the rest of the patrons and music, even as her accent shifts to that of Karu's pidgin.
The whirlwind of excitement around the Mwangi dizzies him more than the roil of the sea during the wintry heart of Kuthona.
Karu grabs the counter to steady himself as taller, giggling elf first dances, then whispers something to the skinny, hungry elf, and then finally stops in front of him.
Squinting and watching her lips move, he quickly loses himself in her words.
By de gods, 'dis one talks faster 'den a beggar flees wit' a nobleman's jewels!
Once the tall, excited elf stops and waits for Karu's reply, he nods, his grin baring his brilliant white teeth. He raises the ale in his right hand, and the mead in his left and responds with a disarming chuckle.
"Yes! Hah! It's good!"
Karu gives a pleading look to both Rain and Dhaavan for assistance.
Sunny laughs as Karu indicates his mugs and deftly skips off to retrieve her own from where she set it down upon the counter.
Whisking it away from the person who'd decided it had become untended and returning to the company of Karu.
She watches Variele and Rain cavort about the room. (^_^)
I wonder if it's an Elf thing, bein so trustin as to leave yer pack with someone. Huh. He tightens his grip on his sack of possessions. All considered I'm glad she did, cause even with all his skill, that fellow can't seem to lead her for a whit! Hilarious!
Giving Karu and Sunny, both a bemused look, Dhaaven takes a swig o' swill, clears his throat and shouts, "She. Has. Cousin. Called Fa'doum. Fa'doum's. O' the. Sea." gestures and signs complement the words, trying to get Karu to understand.
"I'm Dhaaven, by-the-by. well me ta' you too. So how's a pretty thing like you thinkin' it be a safe idea ta be comin down to a dive like this here, if i might ask. So full of routy drunk man-folk of a more... formidable build?" he asks the girl. She looks like she may be tougher than one would first assume, but how's she going to play it off?
Seijiro watches the dancing with interest though doesn't join in. He taps his foot in time to the music.
"'Tis interesting, these dances. Might be considered unseemly fer lads and lasses to be dancin' together where I come from, but I think it looks like fun."
He chuckles to himself as Sunny retrieves her drink. It might be a tad lower in level than it was when she set it down... He raises his own mug to salute her when she takes hers.
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Thank ypu for the dance. it was a pleasure indeed to hold such a woman druring a dance. Perhaps we can meet again after the turn with Rain. Variel gladly changes partners and starts to dance with Rain. This dance isn't as lively but is still spirited in its own way.
Speaking in elven during the dance, The name is Variel miss and I am glad to meet your acquatence. You honor me greatly by joining me for this dance. Perhaps we can talk later unless someone else wishes to dance?
. Again the dance goes well and the Variel is pleased by his success so far. Barely in port an hour and already dancing with the ladies and having a grand time. This is just the way he imaged it after growing up listening to the stories.
When Rain is done dancing:
"My name is Sko," he replies ,"and I've heard you being called Rain." A brief pause then, "An auspicious name; there is power in water."
Turning to Seijiro, "You will find little here that is considered unseemly."
He turns back to Rain. "I have meet only a few Elven women before and you are nothing like them. What is it you do?" he asks in a straightforward manner.
Two other elves and none like the others. Interesting.
Seijiro watches the dancing with interest though doesn't join in. He taps his foot in time to the music.
"'Tis interesting, these dances. Might be considered unseemly fer lads and lasses to be dancin' together where I come from, but I think it looks like fun."
He chuckles to himself as Sunny retrieves her drink. It might be a tad lower in level than it was when she set it down... He raises his own mug to salute her when she takes hers.
Dhaaven is no longer entirely sober. The slight man has had at least 4 full mugs of he doesn't even know what. Cheeks flushed, he laughs saying "Really, Red? It's inappropriate? Well, in that case, would you care for a dance with me, as a fellow man, or perhaps the ladies should go for a whirl" The drunk man tries to maintain composure, but his flirtatious expression is clearly a mask trying to push Seiji's buttons. He's inches away from bursting out laughing.
Karu nods as Dhaavan more slowly reiterates the excited elf's question about her cousin.
"No, Karu does not know dis Fa-Doum. Should he?"
Karu finishes the ale, shifting the mead to his right hand, and picking up the rum with his left.
Four different spirits. 'Den water. Is 'dere not a sayin' about 'dis bein' not a good thing?
Karu arches a dark eyebrow at Rain, wondering why the elf would have suggested four wildly different alcoholic drinks to him.
'De last time a man encourage Karu to drink 'dis much, Karu woke on a ship 'de next day and was made t'row 'de next ten months. Maybe 'dis hungry elf woman has such a thought for Karu?
Karu almost considered being suspicious, but then he imagined pulling the oars for an elvish pirate queen and instead only chuckled, raising the mead and rum in salute.
Rarely seen so many happy people that weren't drunk. I hope at least a few have some wit about them; these ports are not kind to the unattentive nor those who draw too much attention to themselves.
When Rain is done dancing:
"My name is Sko," he replies ,"and I've heard you being called Rain." A brief pause then, "An auspicious name; there is power in water."
Turning to Seijiro, "You will find little here that is considered unseemly."
He turns back to Rain. "I have meet only a few Elven women before and you are nothing like them. What is it you do?" he asks in a straightforward manner.
Two other elves and none like the others. Interesting.
"Oye! Sko, mate, idn't most o' what ya find here unseeming? The people just like it better that way, so it's the norm. But most anyone ya talk to say morality is objective. Evil is Evil, Good is Good, and when we die it don't matter what we think we get sucked down to whatever hole we belong in. Least that's what them Religious types seem to think." he adds to Sko. "But that's some philosophy. You much the philosopher type, a spiritual man?"
The room was suddenly full or so it seemed with a number of people now congregated together and near her. The conversations were flowing as freely and quickly as the beverages and Rain attempted to answer the questions directed her way.
"Hello, Jiro", and shakes his extended hand warmly.
"A little stew would be lovely, Thank you.", not having considered a meal at first she decided it was prudent lest she go hungry.
The man's courtly manners were sweet but she was not so taken in by them but she softly laughed at his exaggerated bow. "'Tis good to meet you, Dhaaven. You seem in fine spirits this day."
Noticing Sunny's animated and swift talk with Karu, Rain looks at him with an sympathetic look but also feels that the warmth Sunny exhibits may be refreshing to a place like this.
When the other Elven woman came and took her backpack to "hold" for her so she could dance with the Elven male, Rain was somewhat annoyed but she curbed her annoyance because the gesture was not meant in harm but for the sake of fun. Holding her trident she was a little hesitant with what to do with it but seeing that Hornan was still by the bar and not dancing she walks over to him and asks,
"I am to dance. Would you be so kind as to look after my trident as I take a turn with the Elven one? You told me earlier you could be my bodyguard and for some reason that made me feel like I could trust you or start to."
Rain returns to the Elven male and bows her head and accepts his hand to dance. The music had slowed and she attempts to match her partner's steps but it seems not so elegantly. Least it is one dance, she thinks to herself.
perform, dance:
After retrieving her backpack from the effervescent Sunny, Rain returns to the tall human's side to reclaim her trident. "Thank you, Hornan. I think I may leave the dancing to those lighter of step this day", a slight blush spreading across her cheeks. She bows her head and walks back to the main company.
After her dance with Variel is over and they have parted company amicably, Rain turns at the sound of another male's voice. "It is good to meet you, Sko. Aye, my family believed the name a most suitable one for me due to the circumstance of my birth, and so, I thank you." Considering his question, Rain taps her finger against her mouth as if pondering what she does, "I am adept at different things but I have a talent for sails and navigation. My family are fishermen and craftsmen. And you, Sko?" she asks with a gentle smile on her face.
Rain looks back when she realises Hornan is following her to the group. She smiles and together they walk across the room.
T-minus 1.5 hours till recruitment close!
With the mead drained, Karu shifted the rum to his right hand, then plucked the wine off the counter with gar gentler motion than could be expected from large, scarred hands.
Bringing the ruby colored glass to his nose, he inhaled much as he had seen nobles-men do in more savory establishments than the 'Maid.
Black currant? Cherry? He inhaled again. Flowers?
Setting the glass back down, Karu first looked to Rain, then to the smaller, groomed man he now knew as Dhaavan, wondering if either would be a more appropriate individual to be drininking wine.
Karu considers Dhaavan for a moment. Was he a man? Or a boy barely of age to need a razor?
... and 'e seems to be very fond o'dat other man 'dat keeps bringin' drinks to 'im. 'Dey keep smiling at one another like 'dey have a secret...
The Mwangi realizes that Dhaavan has yet to dance with the elves.
Did 'e just ask the fox-man to dance?
With his right hand holding the wineglass, Karu continued to deliberate whom to hand it to. Upon spotting the hungry elf woman holding a trident, his decision was made.
"'ere, Dhaa-Van.", he pronounced the man's name slowly, accenting it's second syllable.
"You will enjoy 'de wine more 'den Karu."
"HUZZAH more wine!" shouts Dhaaven, now that he's gotten started he can't help but over-indulge. "Grammercy good man." He bows to the man in appreciation, finishes the drink he's currently nursing and starts in with a delicate sip of the wine. the utterly broke young man is inordinantely pleased with the evening, and happily looks on at the tavern-folk, as they chaotically move about.
Squinting, he checks his bearings, and tries to make sure he has a handle on his surroundings. His shoulder bulges as the tattoo lines on his neck slide down under his shirt and a little Thrush peaks out. He whispers to it in a strange tongue and it hops up to the top of his hat, and scans the patrons. then down to his shoulder, and it chirps in his ear. Dhaaven scratches it on the head, as it looks around for him, chirping in his ear as if it were a lookout.
"Oye! Sko, mate, idn't most o' what ya find here unseeming? The people just like it better that way, so it's the norm. But most anyone ya talk to say morality is objective. Evil is Evil, Good is Good, and when we die it don't matter what we think we get sucked down to whatever hole we belong in. Least that's what them Religious types seem to think." he adds to Sko. "But that's some philosophy. You much the philosopher type, a spiritual man?"
"Nothing unseeming to me," Sko replies, "Wherever you go, the strong and clever will always try to prey on the weak and foolish; it's just more blatant here. I studied under a religious man for a time and I'm fairly certain he never once mentioned morality. But my learnings of religion have not been great. As for being spiritual, I have been called that more than once but am not sure I agree."
Her question seems to perplex Sko and he considers it before answering. "I seek...and learn to grow." He gives the impression of not being satisfied with his own answer and it looks like he might say more but lapses into silence.
He gazes around at the unfamiliar faces. Some of these seem unusually cultured. What would bring such people here?
Looking in particular at Rain, Sunny, Karu and Variel, Sko frowns as unpleasant memories come back to his mind. The Red Mantis would have taken them early...
Wow! What an amazing recruitment. It is now officially closed.
I want to say right off that this will be a ridiculously difficult decision. I would love to take all of you but unfortunately I don't think my sanity could take it. :-)
Good Luck to everyone and just know that if you are not selected it in no way reflects upon the quality I have seen because you are all amazing.
When others return from dancing: "You dance well," he says to the dancers as a whole, "far better than most who frequent this place." A brief smile comes to his lips, "Don't be surprised if you're pestered for dance requests; others will want to brag about who they danced with."
During the dancing and comraderie at the tavern - the man who identified himself as "Flynn" keeps his mug of rum nearby, sipping sparingly from it - and relights his pipe, watching the others caper.
He pulls from a pouch at his side a small book or ledger - slides open its thin pages and scribbles in it a bit as he he glances about him.