After a few minutes of tossing and turning and finding no rest... Seijiro rises again and gets dressed. Ah, Udara, I miss you... If only you were here. After lamenting her absence, and closing his eyes a moment, meditating on the feel of her skin, the scent of her fur... he sighs and heads back downstairs...
He makes his way through the common room, looking around at the folks, if any, in the room. None had said anything that caught his attention earlier, though his thoughts had wandered and he might've missed something here and there.
He walks over to the private area and stands at the entrance for a few moments... wondering will Amen-Set be pissed if I join Rain? She never does talk to me much, not unless she has to, and she pretty much took over my secondary duties as helm relief for Rain, leaving me next to nothing to do aboard the Lady. He shrugged as he stood there just outside the curtain. I can't even message Rain to see if she minds my presence... I need to see her to do that.
He watched the server enter and leave more than once while he stood outside, almost paralyzed by indecision. NOthing ventured, nothing gained, I guess... He pauses, hand on the curtain, makes sure of his appearance, reties his sash, and pushes the curtain aside... he scans the private section until he spots Rain.
Quietly, he casts Message. ~~~Rain, may I join you? I'm bored, can't sleep, tired of sitting alone in the common room.~~~
Quietly, he casts Message. ~~~Rain, may I join you? I'm bored, can't sleep, tired of sitting alone in the common room.~~~
Jiro, when you push past the screen you see that the room is nearly identical to the other corners of the Inn, excepting that the tables and chairs have been removed. Instead, you see several low tables, perhaps only 40 Centimeters off the ground.
Placed around these are thick, padded mats in which various creatures seem to be either kneeling or sitting. A group of Halflings in the corner are chatting quietly with a young, female humanoid that you believe might be called a “Sylph”.
You notice one of the Halflings is smoking and the female is waving her hands and the smoke rings the Halfling blow seem to twist and bend into strange shapes which seem to focus a bit of her attention even as she talks.
At another table you see four creatures which you assume are kobolds, but they seem larger, and their skin has a distinct metallic, silvery sheen to it. They are lightly armed, with twin swords that remind you vaguely of a curved Elven blade, but different somehow – but you naturally recognize the blades as twin katana and wakizashi, making you wonder if they are possibly samurai...
Sitting by them is a strange man who is listening to the talk; his face is pale blue and his hair is jet black, but his eyes are completely white and have no apparent irises. Despite this, he turns and stares at you with what looks like a very intense stare, but you are not sure if he is even able to see, so the effect is somewhat unsettling.
Setting next to these five are Amen-set and Rain, and Neko is feasting on some food next to them.
A middle-aged Halfling move up to you with grace; you also notice she’s smiling despite the obvious bustle of moving around so busy a place at night.
”Oh! Greetings, sir, my name’s Lily and I’m the proprietor of this establishment. Begging your pardon, for them who wish to go inside this part of the tavern we just got one small rule – we ask that you take your boots off; but don’t worry, we got some nice footgear that’d fit just as well in the meantime. What do you think?” she asks politely.
As you consider an answer you notice Amen-set staring at one of the silvery kobold like creatures and the two of them slam down little cups which you think look identical to the sorts used to serve sake.
The one who slams his cup down lets out a loud cry, though is words sound as if he may hiss more than those who speak the usual Common Tongue – ”Banzai!”
Amen-set laughs and then sees you.
”Ah, Jiro-san, come join us!” she calls out with a wave and a cheerful voice to you even as the Halfling cocks her head and waits politely for your response via your shoes.
Just as Rain had began to look about the space and determine whether the folk behind the screens could be trusted, it was then that Amen found her voice and began to openly converse with the patrons, revealing all before Rain even had time to gauge their very natures.
Neko sniffed the air as the fragrant meat and fish were brought before her. She was about to tuck into her food with great gusto when she was mentioned by the blue-faced one and the silver lizard creature.
Upon Amen's request and the patrons acceptance, they moved across to the full table; Rain bringing over Neko's food. Breaking off a chunk of the warm bread and dipping it into the honey, Rain placed it on the lip of in the wooden bowl filled with the hot soup. Pouring herself some of the tea, she waited on the wine she had asked Lily to bring.
"Well met," Rain politely smiled as she inclined her head to the people at the table. Neko's emerald gaze thoughtfully studied each person, before settling down on her haunches by Rain and digging into the food provided her. Rain untied the strings of her cloak and pushed it back, allowing her furled, silver wings a little more room.
”My apologies, Rain-san, but we notice you have a cat with you. It is good to travel with such a companion; our people both honor and love them, for they blessed with luck and are goodly beasts besides,” he adds.
"Aye, she is my companion, and, always travels with me. Your fine regard for her will please her very much."
Quietly, he casts Message. ~~~Rain, may I join you? I'm bored, can't sleep, tired of sitting alone in the common room.~~~
Via the message spell, Rain replied, ~~~Of course, Jiro. Please join us. They speak your native tongue.~~~
Rain watched as Lily went through the speech about removing shoes to Jiro. She lifted her hand in greeting to her kitsune companion as he neared the table and then made room for him on her right side as Neko was seated to her left. To the varied people around the table, Rain made a quick introduction, "Another of my companions, Seijiro Hakamura, our ship's quartermaster."
”So – you are great sailors, and further you are the Anjin-sama of your ship; this is a great honor! As you are guests in our land, please tell us what we can do to help you,” he adds with a polite voice as the Halfling lily returns with more cheese and bread and another pitcher of the steaming wine that the kobolds seem to be enjoying.
Taking a clean mug, Rain filled it with the warm wine. She would rather it had been room temperature, but she would not make a fuss.
Turning to the silver kobold, she answered in a discreet manner, "Although we have recently arrived, we are most eager to return to our ship. Yet, we have heard that this part of the country is under threat of Chelaxian pirates. It would seem we could help you. What know you of this threat, Master Ittō?"
Seijiro removes his shoes happily... Wearing shoes inside never did seem healthy to him. He puts on the tabis offered (or whatever they had). He pads over to Rain's table and bows as he's introduced. He sits cross-legged next to Rin, or any open spot. He nods emphatically at her statement regarding returning to the Lady. As Rain asks her question of the kobold, he listens for the answer with his head tilted slightly, curious. He bows his head slightly and whispers to Rain. Via message spell: ~~~How can we help without a ship?~~~ But he listens with interest to the kobold's answer as well as Rain's private one.
Seeing his crewmates spreading out, Dhaavan takes an interest in some of what the unoccupied groups are doing.
With a twittered command and a casting of a Message spell, Dhaavan subtly orders Jack Thrush to go eaves drop on the Ben in the griffon tabards, using a vanish spell so the bird doesn't fly through the tavern from the sorcerer to a perch. The bird acts natural but keeps out of view.
His other companion, invisible, listens in on the goblins.
He, in the other hand, in part to allay any suspicion observes the dancer while his familiars report what they hear.
He approaches the greenskin, and asks, i've traveled far and wide and seen many style of dance but this is admittedly new to me. In the proud tradition of my people I ask to share, teach me a few steps of your dance and I'll see if I can show you a few? he boss deeply, I would truly love to learn, and take a turn or two on the floor with you
Dhaavan busts out a sick step or two of his Varisian style scarf dance if she needs convincing of his skill as a dance partner picks up what she shows him and occupied her for a bit while his minions spy and whisper in his ear
He bows his head slightly and whispers to Rain. Via message spell: ~~~How can we help without a ship?~~~ But he listens with interest to the kobold's answer as well as Rain's private one.
Rain bent her head a little as if wiping away a crumb of bread and whispered back to Jiro via the message spell, ~~~The rivers cannot be deep enough to travel with ships such as ours without running aground. Mayhap this Lord of Castle Urion can help with a boat.~~~
Rain then looked up and placed a polite smile upon her face as she waited upon Ogami Ittō's reply.
Rajah rises from his table and steps over to theirs. "Good day! Please forgive me for interrupting, but I could not help but overhear your conversation. Now, you mentioned having trouble with Reavers. If you are looking for aid, I know some fine folks that might be interested in such an endeavor. That is, if you are actually looking for additional help?" he asks, curious of the tiefling's answer and a bit slightly concerned if he may have overstepped his bounds.
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Feeling a bit of insomnia Variel combs the common room drinking slowly as he listens to conversations here, makes a jest there and basically moves around the place. He does not stop for long at any particular place but tries to get a feel for the general mood of the place. After all there was talk of fighting and war and that could lead some to be depressed or could cause some to boast gallantly on their achievements. Either way Variel would lend an ear and hear what they had to say.
gather info
Eventually he comes across some elves and bows to them. What brings you to these parts? Not a box and coin I hope.
""Another of my companions, Seijiro Hakamura, our ship's quartermaster."
Ittō turns a glance at Jiro.
"Ah! Good evening, Seijiro-san," he says with a brief bow, noting Jiro's response even as the creature without irises seems to stare hard at Jiro.
"Although we have recently arrived, we are most eager to return to our ship. Yet, we have heard that this part of the country is under threat of Chelaxian pirates. It would seem we could help you. What know you of this threat, Master Ittō?"
Ittō sucks in his breath between his teeth and shakes his head.
"Ah, Anjin-sama, you speak of wako... We know this threat, for we are tasked ourselves with hunting these felons," he says slowly.
"My companions and I have pledged our blades to the Lady Seti who counts herself as sister to she that is named the Dragon Queen," he adds.
"It is her will that we put these scum to death, so that is our duty," he adds as the others nod emphatically, some lifting their glasses at this comment.
"If you are a skilled sailor we could always use extra folk aboard. We fight better with bow and blade; yet these wako have been using the black powder weapons; they have no honor," he adds with a careless shrug then continues - "Still, if you are good before the mast then we would have you, for my friend here sees with a keen sight and I trust his wisdom," he adds with a nod at the silent being who is staring at you all and who gives you a small, silent smile.
He approaches the greenskin, and asks, i've traveled far and wide and seen many style of dance but this is admittedly new to me. In the proud tradition of my people I ask to share, teach me a few steps of your dance and I'll see if I can show you a few? he boss deeply, I would truly love to learn, and take a turn or two on the floor with you
She pauses to watch him, a strange smile on her face as she does. Her tongue flicks out suddenly as if she is tasting the air and her nostrils widen - then her eyes do.
She leans in and whispers in your ear...
"You smell like brimstone... what are you really hiding?"
Jack flies around and is able to overhear the conversation which Rajah overheard earlier (see the above spoiler and response to him for more details).
Further information indicates the men and elves wearing the green tunics and the golden griffons on them belong to an elite air cavalry wing dedicated to the queen. They do scouting missions on their griffons and often patrol the land from above.
To sum up, Jack's sense of it is that they're likely LN or NG sorts at best; the kind who are honorable and stick to their duty and not easily corrupted by bribes or such things.
The last group are the goblins. They do not strike you as normal goblins, in that they behave with some form of decent manners and treat the establishment as if it is run by a local chief.
Their leader is clearly afraid of danger if he or his troops step out of line and he uses hard threats to intimidate them into good manners. What's strange is that he doesn't need to work very hard; apparently these goblins seem resolved to follow some sort of code of honor - crude as it may be.
You sense that the leader has a tribe of riders to the far east of the River Kingdoms and these troops have been sent west to explore potential recruits who may be coming down from Numeria.
You think that they see their War Chief to the east as some sort of tribal god or a being of supernatural power and strength, but you are not sure - clearly they are impressed by their chief (whoever it may be) enough that they wish to honor his commands even so far west.
They talk of their various kills and plunder, but all of it is colored by a strange sense of pride which borders almost on arrogance/egotism - that they are somehow "superior" to normal goblins because THEY have the respect of Men and Elves or "Big Bosses" - you don't think you can persuade them to do something against their code - they wouldn't go for that; but you MIGHT be able to trick them to doing something against their code, if that is your plan?
The leader of the group seems older than the others, they refer to him as "Sharku" - and he seems to keep them in line. They are currently eating uncooked chicken, but he insists all the slops be put in a bucket to make the place as neat as can be for the masters of the Tavern...
Rajah rises from his table and steps over to theirs. "Good day! Please forgive me for interrupting, but I could not help but overhear your conversation. Now, you mentioned having trouble with Reavers. If you are looking for aid, I know some fine folks that might be interested in such an endeavor. That is, if you are actually looking for additional help?" he asks, curious of the tiefling's answer and a bit slightly concerned if he may have overstepped his bounds.
The human turns to look at you, but jerks in his chair, as if the Tiefling across from him is holding on to him and preventing him from turning easily.
"Oye, shove off, chief - this here's a private party, savvy?" he says, then winces hard as his breath comes out between his clenched teeth.
The Tiefling smiles up at you as you see her forearm twist under the table as you hear the man gasp in pain.
"You seem fit enough; but do you have stamina? I like my men to have stamina..." she says with a grin as the man before her squirms a bit more, her hand still not coming above the table.
She looks at the man across from her with a grin, then looks up at you.
"Now - if what I hear is true, you say you have allies that are looking for work, eh? And you're all equally ready to join with me, even before knowing me or the promised price for the work you may do - or your friends? How very fortuitous for me," she continues, clearly enjoying the questioning, but her tone suggests she has absolutely no trust in what you'll say and is very sure you're trying to trick her or convince her to reveal something that could get her into trouble.
"What can you tell me about you and your friends so I know you're the sort who would do well on this mission? If you don't mind me asking, that is..."
Seijiro returns the bow and listens to all that's being said. The pupil-less eyes bring to mind that this fellow might be a samsaran, but he's not entirely sure... While he's pondering that, his attention is turned to the silent being nearby.
~~~Taking up with these folk means we won't be getting closer to home, but might be better than being on land. We should learn more about them?~~~
Eventually he comes across some elves and bows to them. What brings you to these parts? Not a box and coin I hope.
The Elves are sitting with Humans and all wear green tunics with golden griffons on them. On hearing your question they pause in their conversation and look up at you.
"Greetings, sir - who are you?" asks one of the men, studying your gear carefully, noting easily that you are dressed as a sailor and then glances at the other men thoughtfully as he nods slowly.
Th men don't nod, but they slowly adjusts their chairs in a wider circle while one of the Elves returns the nod with one of his own even as he moves his chair back a bit more comfortably, and in a position in which he can stand up quickly, if he should need to.
The other Elf sees the reaction of his companions and frowns, then turns to look up at you.
"Good evening, sir. My name is Lindor Starfire; I, and my companions, serve with the Golden Griffons. We are outriders for Her Grace, the Queen," he adds with a little bow of his head.
"As to our business? We have no need to hide that with a friend," he says the last word deliberately, his eyes never leaving yours as he intentionally ignores the actions of the others in his company.
"We are here because we have been ordered here by Her Grace to deliver dispatches to the Lord of Castle Urion who we shall meet on the morrow... Further, we are here to lend aid against some raiders who have been assailing the ships and boats which ply this river near our Queen's land," he adds with a polite, but matter-of-fact voice.
He stares at you for a long moment, saying nothing but sipping his wine as he studies you.
"As it seems that you are clearly a guest here, may we know your name, sir, and how we can help you?" he asks eventually, then indicates to an open chair so that you can sit down and respond comfortably.
With a look of reluctance about him, "Well, I cannot say we're looking for work per se. Currently we have some pressing matters to attend to and that will have to be settled first. And I cannot promise you they would be willing to aid you simply due to the fact we have no idea the time constraints these current matters may put upon us. I can tell you I know very little about these Reavers except through the not-so-pleasant tone of my shipmates when they have spoken of them." He shrugs. "So, with that being said, it is entirely possible I've offered you help I cannot give you," he says with a chuckle. "Silly me. You know, it is highly possible I probably should have thought this through, don't you think?" he asks rhetorically, shaking his head at his own gaffe. "Well regardless, if you do decide you could use some form of assistance, do not be afraid to at least ask. Again, I can promise nothing but it never hurts to ask you know," he says with a grin and a wink. "The name's Rajah. Just ask for me. Good day to you both," he nods politely, turning and leaving.
Seijiro doubtless knows nothing about what the silent fellow might be...
"My companions and I have pledged our blades to the Lady Seti who counts herself as sister to she that is named the Dragon Queen," he adds.
"We have yet to meet the Dragon Queen Kane or her sister, the Lady Seti. I would like to before we leave your lands."
"If you are a skilled sailor we could always use extra folk aboard. We fight better with bow and blade; yet these wako have been using the black powder weapons; they have no honor," he adds with a careless shrug then continues - "Still, if you are good before the mast then we would have you, for my friend here sees with a keen sight and I trust his wisdom," he adds with a nod at the silent being who is staring at you all and who gives you a small, silent smile.
"We will attempt to aid your cause. I was sailing before I could walk, Master Ittō. I fight with pike, trident and sword in main. They use muskets or do you mean cannons?"
Via message spell to Rain~~~Taking up with these folk means we won't be getting closer to home, but might be better than being on land. We should learn more about them?~~~
Lowering her head a little so her mouth was partially obscured, she whispered back to Jiro via the message spell, ~~~I agree. If subtlety does not work then we should speak plainly and ask.~~~
At mention of the strange male with pale blue skin and white eyes, Rain cast a quick glance in his direction, measuring the man and attempting to determine his race.
"We have yet to meet the Dragon Queen Kane or her sister, the Lady Seti. I would like to before we leave your lands."
Ittō nods and grins.
"Ah, ichi-ban,' he says cheerfully.
"Our queen - she is a little less than a week or so to the east of us if you ride; but longer on foot. Luckily the roads are well made and there are inns spaced roughly twenty miles apart, so you should always have a place to rest safely each night," he adds.
"We will attempt to aid your cause. I was sailing before I could walk, Master Ittō. I fight with pike, trident and sword in main. They use muskets or do you mean cannons?"
He frowns somewhat at this comment.
"They use musket and cannon... so that you know, some of my cousins have little issue with the Tanegashima," he says with a nod to the musket which Amen-set still has over her shoulder.
"As for my Clan? We prefer the sword - better to know who you kill, and who kills you... Black Powder weapons can win the day, yet they lack the chance to spill blood personally, and so we do not use them much," he adds.
"Even so, they are dangerous weapons which can do much damage before a warrior can close with sword and steel, unfortunately."
"Yet I speak overlong; I apologize. I should say that if you are willing to aid us then we should be glad to have you. If you speak to the Lord of castle just north of here then he may be able to guide you better. When he knows you better I believe he will know how you can help best and where," he adds politely.
Lowering her head a little so her mouth was partially obscured, she whispered back to Jiro via the message spell, ~~~I agree. If subtlety does not work then we should speak plainly and ask.~~~
At mention of the strange male with pale blue skin and white eyes, Rain cast a quick glance in his direction, measuring the man and attempting to determine his race.
Rain, as you communicate with Jiro the creature looks at you both with a long gaze, but still says nothing, but his lips quirk into a small smile as if he guesses more than what he is saying.
As you suddenly reach your conclusion, his lips draw back into a wide smile and he chuckles and then reaches for a cup and drinks it slowly - his eyes never leave yours.
"Silly me. You know, it is highly possible I probably should have thought this through, don't you think?" he asks rhetorically, shaking his head at his own gaffe. "Well regardless, if you do decide you could use some form of assistance, do not be afraid to at least ask. Again, I can promise nothing but it never hurts to ask you know," he says with a grin and a wink. "The name's Rajah. Just ask for me. Good day to you both," he nods politely, turning and leaving.
The Tiefling stares at you for a moment, her lips curling back and the sharp ends of her teeth are obfuscated by a strangely seductive smile.
"If I need assistance in a task, I will certainly call on you," she adds with the hint of a purr in her voice as she stands up with you, her hand releasing whatever she was gripping under the table as the man across from her coughs a few moments.
She reaches out her hand to shake yours delicately and leans in close to you.
"Mark this, then, O Man; the deal is struck! So that you know, my people have long memories when it comes to bargains - and with names... Know, then, I shall not forget our bargain or your name, Rajah The Ever-Courteous," she adds with a somewhat sardonic glint in her eye and then she releases your hand, steps back and pantomimes a kiss in your direction before she grabs the man leaning against the table and drags him to his feet then pulls him gently but firmly to the stairs leading to the rooms above.
"Our queen - she is a little less than a week or so to the east of us if you ride; but longer on foot. Luckily the roads are well made and there are inns spaced roughly twenty miles apart, so you should always have a place to rest safely each night," he adds.
"I had heard of her current location through a newly come by ally. If I flew, I could reach there faster, so there is that." She nodded and smiled at the silver kobold warrior.
"They use musket and cannon...Black Powder weapons can win the day, yet they lack the chance to spill blood personally, and so we do not use them much," he adds.
"Even so, they are dangerous weapons which can do much damage before a warrior can close with sword and steel, unfortunately."
"We have an adept gunslinger among our lot. He has not arrived as yet, but he has taught Amen-set much for she is his ward. You are right, weapons at range can promptly harm one with sword across a battlefield. But there are ways to overpower the ones with such weapons."
"If you speak to the Lord of castle just north of here then he may be able to guide you better. When he knows you better I believe he will know how you can help best and where," he adds politely.
"Aye. We leave for Castle Urion in the morning. After introductions with the Lord have been made, I hope we can get down to business. Will you be remaining here for a short duration or are you to return to your Lady Seti?"
Rain, as you communicate with Jiro the creature looks at you both with a long gaze, but still says nothing, but his lips quirk into a small smile as if he guesses more than what he is saying.
As you suddenly reach your conclusion, his lips draw back into a wide smile and he chuckles and then reaches for a cup and drinks it slowly - his eyes never leave yours.
She had little time for staring contests. Rain had never met a Samsaran before, but she had heard stories from her grandfather and elder kin. Watching the strange man drink, Rain's lips curled up in cordial, practiced smile, and with as much courtesy as she could muster under the circumstances, asked "And you, sir, what is your name? It would not do to be seated at a table with someone and not exchange such courtesies. As my sister has mentioned my name is Rain Taneththir and I am Pilot of The Dread Lady of The Shackles."
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Ah Lindor is a fine name. Mine own is Variel and chance, whim, or fate has brought me here. Which one it is I know not but it matters little anyways. What matters is that I am here now and seek to make the most of it. Looking at his own garb at them, Clearly as yo yuhave noted I am unaccustomed to this place. As such I don't even know enough to ask how you can help me. I guess what I am interested in most is knowledge. What is going on in these parts and what perils must a traveler look out for?
"I had heard of her current location through a newly come by ally. If I flew, I could reach there faster, so there is that." She nodded and smiled at the silver kobold warrior.
”Ah… apologies…. Flew?” he asks, but though his words and tone are extremely polite, it is clear he is suddenly curious to know more – but good manners prevents a more detailed series of questions, though you would guess he has many more questions he would like to ask about this, and the fact that he asked anything indicates he is very curious, but knows it would be impolite to ask personal questions.
"We have an adept gunslinger among our lot. He has not arrived as yet, but he has taught Amen-set much for she is his ward. You are right, weapons at range can promptly harm one with sword across a battlefield. But there are ways to overpower the ones with such weapons."
He glances at the others, then back to Rain.
”Yes; this is true – to slay our enemies is good, hai… Still, many say that killing is best when it is done face to face, warrior against warrior; skill against skill… Of course, that is only opinion.”
"Aye. We leave for Castle Urion in the morning. After introductions with the Lord have been made, I hope we can get down to business. Will you be remaining here for a short duration or are you to return to your Lady Seti?"
He nods.
”Ah, this is very good then! We shall likely see each other together, for we journey there in the morning, too. We would leave tonight but sometimes it is wise to be more discrete when traveling, neh?”
Rain turns to look at the final person at the table.
"And you, sir, what is your name? It would not do to be seated at a table with someone and not exchange such courtesies. As my sister has mentioned my name is Rain Taneththir and I am Pilot of The Dread Lady of The Shackles."
The man chortles softly as he looks at Rain.
”Oh yes – the Anjin-sama of the ship?” he says with a very thick accent.
”You call me Ryūjin-san,” he says with a smile and nod of his head, then he chuckles again before continuing.
His blank eyes stare hard at you for a moment, then he smiles.
”You sail long time, neh? But sail be in your blood; your kin be good sailing folk, too, neh? Come, come, Anjin-sama, you wish to go back to your homeland to sail – to kill wako – to conquer enemies and earn honor…. totemo yoi!”
He chuckles again as the other silver lizard creatures suddenly act as if he is silent; their entire attention is completely distracted, as if they are intentionally ignoring him.
”You not at home now, Anjin-sama, you or your taishō,” he says with a nod at Jiro, and a laugh that makes you unsure if he is being serious or not.
”Come with us tomorrow - if you sail with us you not wait until you get home – you can kill wako here, gain honor here, neh? It is honto that you want to kill wako, neh? Banzai! We sail together and gain honor and kill wako together; subarashī!”
Ittō clears his throat after a moment, then smiles somewhat sheepishly at Rain.
”Ah – very good Anjin-sama," he says somewhat awkwardly "That said; I hope you would you still wish to journey with us tomorrow, you strike me as a good companion to sail with...”
Ah Lindor is a fine name. Mine own is Variel and chance, whim, or fate has brought me here. Which one it is I know not but it matters little anyways. What matters is that I am here now and seek to make the most of it. Looking at his own garb at them, Clearly as yo yuhave noted I am unaccustomed to this place. As such I don't even know enough to ask how you can help me. I guess what I am interested in most is knowledge. What is going on in these parts and what perils must a traveler look out for?
Lindor makes a motion and the men and other Elf near him seem to relax a bit and you are made welcome at the table.
”There are many things which are going on. Yet it seems to me that the most poignant are issues which may indelicate to speak about with folk that are not well known.”
”Still, my heart tells me that you may be dangerous, yet I do not fear to be direct with you.”
”You are not a mere traveler; your gear marks you as a sailor, but not one who is used to our lands. Because of this I deem your best chance of survival here would be to continue to sail; yet it is clear that you wish to know more about the trouble on the water, and more than just the terrain of the waterways?”
”There are increasing threats with enemies on the water. We believe they may be connected to an outlaw in the forest called the Echo Woods. These woods have not been cleared fully as they are filled with dangerous creatures beyond mere bandits.”
”The river that stretches by Echo Woods is called The Sullen. Many folk who hail from nations beyond our Queen’s lands travel it, for it is the straightest path between Numeria down to the sea itself.”
”These outlaws often use boats or rafts which they ferry from the forest overland and then hit the shipping on the river. Once the ships are hit, they move quickly back to the forest and carry their barges and rafts with them; yet we do not know where they keep their rafts nor where they choose to strike from, for there are many waterways and places which their rafts can be stored or hidden and so they are not often found, or if they are, their main headquarters has not yet been discovered.”
”To combat these issues ships and barges which ply the river have taken more protection on their journeys; yet it seems that escort boats and mercenaries are not enough to stop these outlaws. Indeed, reports indicate that somehow the outlaws are using new techniques to attack the shipping, more than simple rafts. We have heard reports of larger boats, some the size of ships – but we cannot confirm these reports fully for the few witnesses who survived had conflicting reports.”
Lindor leans back and crosses his legs before him, studying you intently.
”To put it fully, we have trouble in the water with pirate types. We do not know where their main headquarters are, but we suspect in Echo Woods on the eastern shore of The Sullen.”
”If you would wish to help then I encourage you to speak to Commander John Brecht; though he is from Galt initially, he has served with the Andoran navy for a time, but he has been in our lands for nearly five years and transferred to Castle Urion three years ago, as I recall.”
”He is in charge of the escort ships which protect merchant ships that sail on the river near Castle Urion.”
”His quarters are next to the small barracks which are kept at the harbor. He will likely have more information for you, and could possibly offer you work with him if he is satisfied with your skill.”
The other man go back to their food and drink and seem to ignore the conversation, sensing that Lindor has things in control.
Meanwhile, he watches you thoughtfully for a moment.
”I hope this information is helpful to you; I do not think I have shared anything that is beyond what most folk know already, and so I have no fear for this knowledge going astray. Even so, I hope that by giving you more precise instructions that you can put this information to work and your journey in our lands will be fruitful.”
”Do you have any further questions I might be able to answer?” he asks you politely.
"Mark this, then, O Man; the deal is struck! So that you know, my people have long memories when it comes to bargains - and with names... Know, then, I shall not forget our bargain or your name, Rajah The Ever-Courteous,"
As Rajah watches the two walk away, "Yes... I know," he mumbles as a matter of fact to himself, grinning tiredly as he heads back to his table and returns to his meal.
Seijiro's eye twitches as does the corner of his mouth, but he manages not to break out into laughter at their misinterpretation of his silence. He says nothing more yet, but he lets his eyes meet those of the samsaran as he nods at the mention of sailing together.
Dhaavan shrugs, "Not hiding anything, per say. Just not advertizing anything either. What's it to you, what i may or may not be not advertising?" he asks, intrigued by what she notices, and how.
"Smelling Brimstone on me is a talent that goes past just having a good nose. How is it that you came by such talent; is it ma matter of what you are or is it something you may or may not be hiding"] dhaavan asks, probing for information on this "dancer"
looks to the side and twitters
Blue Rajah
Hey buddy! Jack chirps, landing of Rajah's shoulder. SO Pretty-boy over there is distracted, but figures someone might find the Gobbs over there interesting. They be some kinda Civilized goblins. They play by rules and want human respect for some reason. They could be usef-ahem, "helpful" if there's any gigs that we have, if something pans out with a lead from the Queen's men, or your Tiefling lady-friend
Dhaavan shrugs, "Not hiding anything, per say. Just not advertizing anything either. What's it to you, what i may or may not be not advertising?" he asks, intrigued by what she notices, and how.
She merely chuckles at the question and moves back from you a bit, then does a bit of a dance - but clearly meant for you personally rather than a general performance for the tavern.
"Smelling Brimstone on me is a talent that goes past just having a good nose. How is it that you came by such talent; is it ma matter of what you are or is it something you may or may not be hiding"] dhaavan asks, probing for information on this "dancer"
As she dances she hears your question and her eyes gleam with amusement.
She swings herself closer to you, then turns and suddenly bends backwards, her body arching sinuously in a way that makes you think she is more flexible than a Human or even an Elf could be.
As she faces you upside down, her long black hair falling around her shoulders and pooling on the floor she looks up you.
"Ah... I see... I tell you things, you tell me things? But not about brimstone, no - but about ourselves, perhaps? Would it be better, then, to dance with words rather than limbs?"
She chuckles once, then flips forward and swings her body around in a graceful arc to now lean before you, her thighs pressed against the floor as her back arches up and she stares into your eyes intently.
"Share with me a truth and with you I'll share mine; a mingled, mixing, mash of truths, to me it would be fine..."
Her palms are flat on the stone of the tavern and she begins to slide toward you, as if her legs are dragging behind her like a long, twisted, tail.
When her face is mere inches from yours and you can see the reptilian shaped irises dark inside her golden, cat-shaped eyes she smiles again at you.
"We both wish answers of each other, perhaps. You want truth and so do I... Come, come, Son of Surtr - quid pro quo... Yes? Or... no?" she says as her tongue slowly flicks over her lips again, much like it did when she leaned in earlier to smell your scent.
Then she pauses before you, as if her dance is finished, but clearly she waits - poised for an answer.
Fair enough, what is it you'd like to know? If not about Brimstone, and the taste of my soul, then perhaps of my travels through the Shackles and encounters with great and powerful beings far beyond our mortal ken? Do you wonder what lies beyond the pale of Death or of the looming eternity that may or may not await us? Dhaavan asks, gauging her reaction to each suggestion and looking for what else she may be interested in, what he can offer her
You aren't like other dancers I've encountered? you have more than the low-cunning needed to take a man's money. so what are you doing here? what are you really looking for, or are you passing time in an interesting place, waiting for something interesting to come along? he asks
”Ah… apologies…. Flew?” he asks, but though his words and tone are extremely polite, it is clear he is suddenly curious to know more – but good manners prevents a more detailed series of questions.
"Aye, Master Ittō. I possess the ability to fly."
”Ah, this is very good then! We shall likely see each other together, for we journey there in the morning, too. We would leave tonight but sometimes it is wise to be more discrete when traveling, neh?”
"It seems we are headed in the same direction. Since we are newcomers to these lands we thought it best to travel and present ourselves to the Lord in daylight rather than dead of night. It has been a taxing day and it is right we rest and start afresh in the morning."
”You call me Ryūjin-san,” he says with a smile and nod of his head, then he chuckles again before continuing.
His blank eyes stare hard at you for a moment, then he smiles.
”You sail long time, neh? But sail be in your blood; your kin be good sailing folk, too, neh? Come, come, Anjin-sama, you wish to go back to your homeland to sail – to kill wako – to conquer enemies and earn honor…. totemo yoi!”
"Well met, Master Ryūjin. And aye, I come from a long line of seafarers. And by and by we will return to our homeland and the undertakings we have there. For now we bide here in hopes of gaining the knowledge we require and provide aid to your Queen."
Rain observed the distracted silver kobolds, but could not make out their intent.
”Come with us tomorrow - if you sail with us you not wait until you get home – you can kill wako here, gain honor here, neh? It is honto that you want to kill wako, neh? Banzai! We sail together and gain honor and kill wako together; subarashī!”
Ittō clears his throat after a moment, then smiles somewhat sheepishly at Rain. ”Ah – very good Anjin-sama," he says somewhat awkwardly "That said; I hope you would you still wish to journey with us tomorrow, you strike me as a good companion to sail with...”
Rain looked from the Samsaran to the silver kobold warrior and inclined her head, "I can't see why we should not travel together if we are all headed to Castle Urion. I shall speak with my Captain and other companions this night to conclude our travel arrangements and then send word to your room. We mean to head out after dawn prayers have been conducted and we've broken our fast."
Rain lifted her mug of wine and saluting her dining companions took a long sip. Then placing the mug down, she lifted her spoon and ladled some of the tasty chicken broth into her mouth.
Through the active message spell and between small mouthfuls of soup, she whispered to the silent Jiro, ~~~Do you have any further questions for our current companions or do we finish our meal, politely excuse ourselves and find the others?~~~
~~~I think we're done here... you've made us some friends I think...~~~ Seijiro masks his whispers between sips of his drink... nods to Ryujin and the kobold with a satisfied smile.
When Rain indicates her desire to leave, he finishes his drink and stands, bows to the samsaran and the kobold, then to Rain. "I beg your indulgence to depart." IF there are no objections, he steps out of the room.
Surprised to see Variel awake and about, he slips into a corner and casts another message spell, this time toward Dhavaan and Variel.
He doesn't approach Variel immediately, not wanting to interrupt, but he is curious as to what's going on. ~~~You are awake Variel-sama. Good! There is much to discuss. When you both have time, of course, at your convenience. and with Rajah and Amen-Set too of course.~~~
Blue Rajah
Hey buddy! Jack chirps, landing of Rajah's shoulder. SO Pretty-boy over there is distracted, but figures someone might find the Gobbs over there interesting. They be some kinda Civilized goblins. They play by rules and want human respect for some reason. They could be usef-ahem, "helpful" if there's any gigs that we have, if something pans out with a lead from the Queen's men, or your Tiefling lady-friend
Nodding, "Well let us see, shall we?" Rajah rises and makes his way over to the goblin table. "Good day! Pardon me for interrupting but I was curious...," he stops, studies them all for a moment before asking, "Do any of you speak Common?"
~~~Rain, looks like things are just about done here... I'm gonna go see about rounding up the others when they are free. Unless you still need me here.~~~
Fair enough, what is it you'd like to know? If not about Brimstone, and the taste of my soul, then perhaps of my travels through the Shackles and encounters with great and powerful beings far beyond our mortal ken? Do you wonder what lies beyond the pale of Death or of the looming eternity that may or may not await us? Dhaavan asks, gauging her reaction to each suggestion and looking for what else she may be interested in, what he can offer her
She gives a rich laugh of satisfaction and then – as her dance is done – she pulls herself forward into Dhaavan’s lap and places her arms around him.
To any patron in the Tavern it may seem that she is being somewhat forward with a customer in order to secure a better tip, yet it is likely they cannot hear her words as she speaks softly to you so only you can hear.
”So many questions in him inspired; yet it was a truth which I desired...”
She watches you thoughtfully, almost talking to herself, her tone still almost coy.
”To tempt or tantalize - is this his plan? Or shall he cleave to the game at hand...”
”Perhaps the rules are bent to him and thus he cannot see the end... Verily shall I start the game afresh and should he win the game aright then many things he’ll learn this night,” she says with a teasing whisper.
You aren't like other dancers I've encountered? you have more than the low-cunning needed to take a man's money. so what are you doing here? what are you really looking for, or are you passing time in an interesting place, waiting for something interesting to come along? he asks
She frowns with a pout and stares at you.
”Questions, questions – a thousand queries made by fools; does he yet not know the rules?"
"For you now then the game restarts; but have a care you know your part - the rules indeed are clear and sweet; a truth for truth, now do not cheat..."
She leans in to you and whispers in your ear.
”And so a truth I share with you – the doubt you have for me is true."
"A goodly guess you made, though merely guess it was, I deem. But you would learn a truth of me; Aye, I am no dancer – this you gleaned…”
”I do more than dance as you shall see... I am a priestess of things which are, and have been and are yet to be...”
She traces her long graceful finger over your chest up to your lips, her reptilian eyes staring into yours unflinchingly.
”And now you know the rules, you see? And now you shall share a truth with me…” she adds, but her tone is not as gentle or mischievous as before; instead, there is the touch of something more intent in her voice, something harder and almost hungry….
Nodding, "Well let us see, shall we?" Rajah rises and makes his way over to the goblin table. "Good day! Pardon me for interrupting but I was curious...," he stops, studies them all for a moment before asking, "Do any of you speak Common?"
The goblins turn to look at you and they let out a collection of barks of shrill grunts and hoots and foul sounding chortling which you suddenly realize is them chatting and laughing.
”You come to sit with our Clan, Ponyboy?” the largest goblin of the group asks, clearly referring to the ponytail which hangs neatly down the nape of your neck.
”Well? Do you come to fight, to kill, to drink, to eat – or all?” he adds with a vicious voice, but the goblins behind him laugh loudly at the words as they stare at you with what almost looks like friendly expressions.
”I am Sharku – of Clan Malas’rae! Our Chief be Snaga! Snaga follow the Half-Man Blood-God who be the Chief of Chiefs! Who be your Chief?" he adds, looking around as if you're suddenly going to produce a "chief" from your pocket.
"Well? Where be your Chief Ponyboy? I - Sharku - I say you must bring him before us so we can kill him! But, maybe he is strong – if he be strong then we will not kill him but we will drink as war-folk drink!” he adds, and it seems his comments which almost bordered on threats were something not even he is taking very seriously – almost as if he is so immersed in the barbarism of his people that it’s difficult for him to properly divorce the more violent sentiments from his language, even if he doesn’t really seem to mean them quite literally.
The others pound their cups on the table and hoot and cheer at Sharku's words, but the one called Sharku glances at the Elves and Humans talking to Variel across the room, then he turns and snarls at them.
”Shut up! This not our warhut! Show respect to Elf and Men and Halfling bosses or I make heaps of bloody maggot holes in you all!” he adds, and the others quickly stop their noise and lapse into a silence, punctuated with small chatter and muted grunts; then what sounds like some audible flatulence followed by muted chuckles.
To a casual observer it seems that despite the threats they don’t seem very upset or offended by his words; almost as if they merely extrapolated from his comments something akin to – Now, now, comrades, be more respectful or I shall be disappointed… – and that all his words might be nothing but posturing.
Still, Sharku looks up at you intently.
You can see he has various macabre war trophies on him, including what looks like a necklace made with two long teeth which you word swear are teeth from a dire crocodile…
His small foot kicks a chair from the table close to your leg and it’s clear that it’s an invitation to sit.
”Well, Ponyboy – will you drink our drink with us? Will you drink the drink of true Slayers; or should we get you some warm milk instead?” he adds with an evil tone, but his eyes seem more curious to see if you’re willing to share a drink with them then they are cruel or sadistic.
He pours a large drink of something into a tin cup and pushes it to you as the others stare at you, curious to know what you will do.
"Well met, Master Ryūjin. And aye, I come from a long line of seafarers. And by and by we will return to our homeland and the undertakings we have there. For now we bide here in hopes of gaining the knowledge we require and provide aid to your Queen."
Ryūjin-san seems to glance from Rain to Seijiro, though it is hard to guess where he is truly looking. He looks at Rain with a small smile that almost seems as if he is smiling at a private joke, but he says nothing outwardly and merely nods his head respectfully to Rain.
He finishes his drink and stands, bows to the samsaran and the kobold, then to Rain. "I beg your indulgence to depart." If there are no objections, he steps out of the room.
The kobold-like creatures stand and return the bow correctly, as a samurai of equal rank might do so; but the fellow in the chair merely smiles and bows his head courteously, but does not rise and bow formally as the kobold-sorts do.
After Jiro leaves Rain lifted her mug of wine and saluting her dining companions took a long sip. Then placing the mug down, she lifted her spoon and ladled some of the tasty chicken broth into her mouth as Amen-set says nothing but continues to stare at the group. Her expression is, as usual, not hard to read – it’s clear she is attempting to guess what this group is really thinking but she is still unsure.
"It seems we are headed in the same direction. Since we are newcomers to these lands we thought it best to travel and present ourselves to the Lord in daylight rather than dead of night. It has been a taxing day and it is right we rest and start afresh in the morning."
Ittō nods his head and seems to like this plan.
”We shall also journey when the dawn comes; for we must be swift and fulfill our errand to our Lord and Lady. We rest here only as we cannot meet with the Lord of the Castle until tomorrow; but we ride at sunup.”
Rain looked from the Samsaran to the silver kobold warrior and inclined her head, "I can't see why we should not travel together if we are all headed to Castle Urion. I shall speak with my Captain and other companions this night to conclude our travel arrangements and then send word to your room. We mean to head out after dawn prayers have been conducted and we've broken our fast."
Ittō sucks his breath in throw his teeth and his face seems to be somewhat downcast, as if he is disappointed in your plans, but would not be so impolite as to say so. Instead, after thinking a bit, he offers this response.
”If we were not bound by our orders we should wait for you, for your plan seems good. But we must travel at dawn, for those are our orders.”
”We must make great speed and I do not think you could catch us on foot if you left so late, nor even on horse – but you cannot fly, so I think our destiny shall cause us to separate, at least for a little while.”
"Aye, Master Ittō. I possess the ability to fly."
Rain had pushed back her cloak to allow her wings some more room, so they are partially visible to the group.
The eyes of the kobold-like creatures instantly widen and Ittō suddenly barks out – ”Keirei!” with that, he and all the kobold-like creatures leap to their feet and bow low to the ground before Rain.
Ryūjin-san nods his head slowly, as if he had guessed something and stands up before Rain and bows, too; though not nearly as low as his troops, but clearly he is bowing formally and with courtesy.
Amen-set looks at Rain with a shocked expression, but knowing at least the custom of these people from what she’s heard of so far, she glances at Rain, then turns to the others and bows correctly before them in response.
Failing to return a bow is considered extremely rude and disrespectful. They will remain bowed until it is returned, or until you are out of site.
Two people of equal rank would bow to the same level. The lower the bow, the lower the caste/rank. It’s clear that Ryūjin-san is clearly the superior of the kobold-type creatures as they bowed much lower than he did. If you bow lower than him, that means you acknowledge he is superior to you in rank. If you bow less than him it means you know you are greater than him; and more important than him. If you bow equal to him it means you consider yourself to be equals. Of course, with no real knowledge of how important he is (nor do they know how important you are) this is considered more of a “declaration of importance”.
In other words; it’s clearly a way for you to demonstrate your power over another – but be warned; if the other is really more important than you and they found at later you didn’t show them respect, they’re honor bound to respond to that insult. Of course, it’s very clear that they clearly think you’re very important for some reason.
You realize this didn’t happen until after they saw your dragon wings, though; this does beg some follow-up questions, but I’ll leave them to you…
a voice speaks into Variel's mind, a whisper, Don't react, it's Dhaavan and everything's fine. Rajah is speaking with goblins that want to meet his Chief. No rush, but do you have a message for him? Perhaps to tell to point you out? Your current company would impresssss
GM
Dhaavan grins at this truth. I was not attempting to obfuscate or break your rules, simply ask what truth you want, so how about I think of an Equivalent truth to yours that would interest you in this context, Dhaavan suggests.
I was once dead, Heart turned to coral. On the other side I saw an end coming to all things and was sent back in a new form, Dhaavan tells her. And now to tantalize, tell me another truth and I can tell you why my return is of such great significance
Another truth, a price I paid for power was already property of my patron? he adds, giving her another truth to get her to tell him another by her own rules.
~~~Rain, looks like things are just about done here... I'm gonna go see about rounding up the others when they are free. Unless you still need me here.~~~
Rain looked across to Jiro and taking a drink, she whispered against the cup, through the message spell, ~~~We are almost done and we can leave together. But if you feel you must go now, then so be it. I will see you in the Common Room shortly.~~~
Putting her cup down, she looked up at her dining companions, a polite smile on her face and listened.
”If we were not bound by our orders we should wait for you, for your plan seems good. But we must travel at dawn, for those are our orders.”
”We must make great speed and I do not think you could catch us on foot if you left so late, nor even on horse – but you cannot fly, so I think our destiny shall cause us to separate, at least for a little while.”
Rain was about to respond when the Minkaian order to salute was given and the silver kobold warriors and Ryūjin-san all stood and bowed before her in different degrees. Such pomp and supplication were not something Rain was used to nor put much value in, but she knew this lot to be noble and part of their culture and thus she did not want to offend.
Rain had no idea of Ryūjin-san's rank, but he was certainly above the kobolds and thus she would show respect. Standing and drawing a breath in, she bowed before them at a steady/natural pace, hands crossed gracefully in front of her body to an equal level of the Samsaran and then held it for a few seconds. How I wish I was back on the ship and at sea, she mused privately. She was not the diplomat aboard the Lady and she did not want to shame herself or her sailing companions by clumsily undertaking this display of respect. I hope I'm recollecting the way Minkaian women bow correctly.
Quietly breathing out, she steadily raised herself and politely responded, "I am uncertain why you have shown me such respect, but I thank you all the same. Please, let us be at ease with one another once more." Neko's emerald eyes had taken in the formal display and the golden cat had purred contentedly at the show of respect toward her mistress.
Pausing for a moment to see if they would comply, Rain continued on in a steady voice, "If you must leave at dawn, then there is no conflict and I wish you well on your journey. I am certain we will meet each other again at Castle Urion on our arrival or thereafter as we will need to make arrangements with the lord's people to speak with him. I have been given directions by Christopher Ironhorse and Priest Daeron. I am good with navigating land, even though I am better at sea."
~~~I'll stay til you're ready to leave then.~~~
Seijiro remains seated, watching the exchange with a mix of curiosity and a bit of awe at their reaction to Rain's wings. He'd been around her so much, they were like second nature to who she was now, and he'd grown used to them. On the other hand, he could understand the awe they'd hold for her. They probably think she's a dragon in human form. He smiles, not just a little twitch of the corner of his mouth this time, but a full smile, Which he hides a little by lowering his head slightly and taking a sip of his drink...
~~~You've impressed them not only with your words, but your wings as well... I bet they think you are a dragon posing as a mortal. Until now I think they thought I was the man in charge and you my 'voice', but now not so much.~~~
Pondering it all, "No, no, I do not like warm milk I assure you. Various teas I have found a liking to but haven't had any in a good while. Anyway, it would appear I do not meet your criteria and will bid you adieu." He nods politely and then takes his leave. Whispering to the bird as they walk away, "It would appear, my avian ally, that while they may claim to be civilized of sorts, they are still goblins and I fear they would only damage any possible use we could get out of them. Which, honestly, is probably just as well," he concludes, shrugging.
Rain heard Jiro's whispered words through the message spell. They had all been blessed by the great dragons during their mighty battle and fall, but none of them were dragons posing as mortals. And it had never occurred to her that they believed Jiro her superior and she his mouth piece. She was suddenly even more glad to have been born an Elf and come from Tempest Cay. As Rain waited to hear from either the silver kobold or Ryūjin-san, Rain picked up her goblet of wine and once more sipped and whispered against the vessel (via the message spell), ~~~I will politely correct them if that is what they presume. And don't forget to bow. You, too, must show respect.~~~
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Very well. When I am finished with these people I will come over and check in on him. He can introduce me then.
Indeed I think there is much we will all need to discuss before the night is over or at least on the ride to the castle tomorrow. Perhaps start tonight and finish then.
With the elves he is sitting with...You have certainly given me much to think about. Let me repay the favor. Variel then signals for a round of drink for the group around him.I do not have anything to trouble you with right now as I must discuss all of this with my companions. If it works out for us I hope that we may be able to aid your cause. Yet there is much that goes into such a decision.
Unless the elves have any further need of him he will go over to Rajah to see how he fares with the goblins. My good Rajah how are you doing tonight? Have you bought a round for your new friends?
Shaking his head, "Oh no, good Captain, I do not believe they could aid us in any cause. They are, after all, goblins. And while they dress far better than their typical kind, they remain the same in temperament." He shrugs.
I was once dead, Heart turned to coral. On the other side I saw an end coming to all things and was sent back in a new form, Dhaavan tells her. And now to tantalize, tell me another truth and I can tell you why my return is of such great significance
Another truth, a price I paid for power was already property of my patron? he adds, giving her another truth to get her to tell him another by her own rules.
The dancer smiles wickedly at you and claps her hands with a devilish glee.
”A truth, a truth he asks of me; for peace or utter misery… Yet as he tells the truth I shall to him respond; with truth, regale…”
She leans in and nestles closer, the hiss of her breath echoing strangely in your ear.
”To slake one’s hunger food is best; and better still is noble stock – flesh is sweeter than the rest; if first you flavor it with talk.”
”A truth of me I’ll share then now; flesh cooks well in pot or pan – a finer meal you could not ask, be it flesh of bird, or beast, or Man…” she adds, then chuckles throatily.
Her reptilian eyes lock on yours and she smiles coyly.
”I’ve tasted things which walk on four legs, and those which walk on two – I’ve tasted many meals and many feasts and many things which look like you.”
She leans in and nibbles your ear playfully.
”It is your turn now, Son of Surtr…”
Quietly breathing out, she steadily raised herself and politely responded "I am uncertain why you have shown me such respect, but I thank you all the same. Please, let us be at ease with one another once more." Neko's emerald eyes had taken in the formal display and the golden cat had purred contentedly at the show of respect toward her mistress.
Ryūjin-san smiles and raises his head and straightens, the others remain bowed, but it is clear they are watching the exchange from the corner of their eyes.
Seijiro remains seated, watching the exchange with a mix of curiosity and a bit of awe at their reaction to Rain's wings. He smiles, not just a little twitch of the corner of his mouth this time, but a full smile, Which he hides a little by lowering his head slightly and taking a sip of his drink...
Realizing that Seijro refused to acknowledge the bow or the courtesy, there is a mingled sound of the intake of breath through clenched teeth. The hands of the kobold-like creatures instantly flash to their sword hilts and their knuckles whiten obviously as they grip the hilts tightly.
One of them growls, but you are not sure which, but you are fairly certain that Ittō-san mutters the word – "Konki..." - but he says nothing more.
Ryūjin-san’s eyes are now flat and he seems to have only eyes for Rain and Amen-set (who is still bowed as are the kobold-like creatures).
”You have good manners, Anjin-sama, as does your companion,” he says with a nod to Amen-set.
”Please excuse the temperament of my folk – the hour is late, no doubt.”
He turns at them and gives them a look and they shudder with suppressed shame at the insult their lord endured, but they stand up formally, their hands still resting on their sword hilts. At this time they now seem to completely ignore the situation and their gaze is focused somewhere on the screens beyond you.
Ryūjin-san smiles somewhat apologetically to Rain.
”Please forgive us; we must now retire to our quarters and sleep. Perhaps we shall meet again, if fortune permits it,” he adds with an elaborate show of courtesy and good manners, much more than would be expected for one who is simply going to bed.
With that he bows again and those behind him bow too, Amen-set instantly responds in kind, but the party now leaves politely from the room and heads through the Common Room to their quarters above.
Seijiro rises and bows deeply to Ryujin and then to the kobolds.
Pondering it all, "No, no, I do not like warm milk I assure you. Various teas I have found a liking to but haven't had any in a good while. Anyway, it would appear I do not meet your criteria and will bid you adieu." He nods politely and then takes his leave.
”Tea?” he asks, genuinely confused.
”Tea?… Tea?……Tea!” you hear the others whisper in confusion, then they all glance at you.
”What – you too good to drink our drink? You got bad manners Ponyboy… We give drink; you refuse! It be good your Chief not here or he would rage for how you treat Chiefs of other Clans,” he adds with a huff.
Then realizing that Rajah has refused their friendship and offer of hospitality, the goblins grunt and turn back to their meal.
With the elves he is sitting with...You have certainly given me much to think about. Let me repay the favor. Variel then signals for a round of drink for the group around him.I do not have anything to trouble you with right now as I must discuss all of this with my companions. If it works out for us I hope that we may be able to aid your cause. Yet there is much that goes into such a decision.
The men seem surprised at the gesture, but they do not turn it down.
"My thanks, sir," Lindor says politely.
"It is a good thing to meet kindred from across the seas. Thank you for your generosity; it is well appreciated," he adds with a courteous tone in his voice as he speaks to Variel.
Unless the elves have any further need of him he will go over to Rajah to see how he fares with the goblins.
Seeing that Variel has left the company, Lindor turns to the other Men and Elf and they resume their conversation.
As Rajah strides over to Variel a group of kobold-like creatures with metallic skin move through the Common Room. Behind them is a being with pale blue flesh, black hair and large white eyes with no pupils. They are armed with twin swords; one large and one somewhat smaller, and are dressed in loose silk robes.
The being with the pale blue flesh has no weapons on him, however.
My good Rajah how are you doing tonight? Have you bought a round for your new friends?
Variel is eager for news and he calls to Rajah, but at this one of the Goblins looks up at him.
Shaking his head, "Oh no, good Captain, I do not believe they could aid us in any cause. They are, after all, goblins. And while they dress far better than their typical kind, they remain the same in temperament." He shrugs.
He calls out from his table.
"If he your Chief, Ponyboy? He got look like killer; but maybe he got better manners than you, eh?"
The larger goblin calls to Variel.
"You his Chief? Is he your Clan Brother? We offer drink but he be rude - got no manners; no honor. He say goblin-folk be bad; he not see us kill yet - but at least we got manners," he adds with a somewhat insulted tone.
At this comment the others in the tavern who are still awake at this hour glance toward Variel and Rajah. Lindor himself glances from the goblin to Rajah, then gives Variel a look which seems to say - What did your friend do that goblins would claim he has bad manners?
Then Lindor cocks his head and looks at Variel, curious to know what may happen next.
Seijiro rises and bows deeply to Ryujin and then to the kobolds.
Amen-set watches the bow but she notes that the others have now left the room and have decided to go to bed.
When they have gone she flings herself down on the low cushion and scowls.
"By the Great Father, I deem those folk would have aided us well; but now they have left us."
She mutters to herself in what sounds like the draconic tongue as she picks up the flask of rice wine. Instead of pouring it into a cup she drinks directly from the flask, a scowl on her face.
"Further - in all of the time we spoke thou gave not one word of thy name, thy rank, thy title - why?" she adds, then shakes her head and takes another gulp from the flask then winces as the strength of the liquor fills her suddenly.
She grunts and folds her arms before her.
"Tomorrow we may meet them again; if the Great Father permits it. Tomorrow this must be fixed," she adds with a stare at Seijiro, then a glance at Rain.
Then she turns and pets Neko as if petting the cat will help her to relax.
"You introduced me, so there was no need to introduce myself, and I didn't know what you'd discussed before I arrived... I didn't want to interrupt your talks with them... It seemed to be going so well... I'm sorry for any misunderstandings or bad feelings on their part, or yours."