You find yourself wandering into a Brevoy tavern one night to see a cluster of people standing around a piece of paper nailed to the notice board. Once you are able to (elbow your way through, wait patiently, use your small size to scamper underneath the big people or use your commanding height to simply look over everyone's head) read the paper, it says thus;
All ye brave of heart and strong in desire, harken! To the south lies those lands long bereft of order and Lordship. The Swordlords call out for those of stout character to journey to the south and tame the wildlands for the glory of first themselves and then The Ruby Throne! All interested parties please see your nearest clerk's office.
Thunder rumbled outside and light flashed through the windows as the storm raged. Rain pounded on the roof of the inn and occasional bursts of wind and water would howl through the main room whenever the main door would open. Sodden travelers stomped the mud from their boots before making their way as close to the fire as they could seat themselves. You had been sitting sometime waiting for your compatriots to arrive themselves. You didn't know each other well, having only formed this group a week ago when approached by a mismatched pair of half-elven sisters who wanted to form a group and go south into the Stolen Lands. This was the day you had all agreed to meet before traveling, the past week used to outfit yourselves for the hard road ahead.
Domitian sat staring into the fire, contemplating the journey before them, as he finished drying out. Bad omen, this sort of weather the day we begin. Erastil protect us all. If 'us all' actually get here... He glances around, not for the first time, hoping to catch sight of the others. He had gotten here at the agreed upon time, despite the weather, but it appears to have slowed the others down.
Curses as she comes into the tavern. She had been ready for rain, but bound by faith she was not one to wear to much clothing. Today is not a day to remind everyone I am a priestess. I swear mud is everywhere now. She looks about, but all she could really see was other travelers. Mehaila was not tall, but she did have some curves, a little bit more than normal for an elf. That meant when she took off her traveling cloak, a good many eyes followed her. She folded her cloak over her arms and walked to the fire, before seeing someone familiar. She wasn't to sure who he was, as they did not realy get to know each other. She had a few last relations she had to care for over the last week.
"H...Hello? I am Mehaila... I.. I believe we are traveling together?" She pauses some in her speech, a slight nervousness obvious. "I hope we will have a safe journey, I am looking forward to whatever adventure we find. Do you mind me asking about your skills?" She was talking while leaning over, giving a pleasant view of her chest, but it was only because she had not sat down yet. Once he acknowledged they were travelling together, she would sit down, and order a cup of tea and whatever the local meal of the day was. Each tavern had it's specials.
Curses as she comes into the tavern. She had been ready for rain, but bound by faith she was not one to wear to much clothing. Today is not a day to remind everyone I am a priestess. I swear mud is everywhere now. She looks about, but all she could really see was other travelers. Mehaila was not tall, but she did have some curves, a little bit more than normal for an elf. That meant when she took off her traveling cloak, a good many eyes followed her. She folded her cloak over her arms and walked to the fire, before seeing someone familiar. She wasn't to sure who he was, as they did not really get to know each other. She had a few last relations she had to care for over the last week.
"H...Hello? I am Mehaila... I.. I believe we are traveling together?" She pauses some in her speech, a slight nervousness obvious. "I hope we will have a safe journey, I am looking forward to whatever adventure we find. Do you mind me asking about your skills?" She was talking while leaning over, giving a pleasant view of her chest, but it was only because she had not sat down yet. Once he acknowledged they were travelling together, she would sit down, and order a cup of tea and whatever the local meal of the day was. Each tavern had it's specials.
Domitian stands courteously as the elven woman approaches. About bloody time... What is she wearing? Not exactly well equipped for the wilderness. "Lady Silverstrike, I believe? Mehaila. Please, sit and warm yourself." He keeps his eyes firmly locked onto hers as he speaks, not allowing himself any visual wandering. "Yes, I am one of your traveling companions, Domitian Albercoft. We met the other day, but only briefly." He stays standing until she sits, then he resumes his seat.
"My skills? Well, now, that's an interesting question. Mostly I consider myself to be a woodsman, but my mother was an accomplished healer who taught me much of her trade, so I am that as well." He doesn't speak much of his fighting abilities, but the well cared for falchion and longbow that is with his gear speak to that. "What of yourself?"
Sighs softly and makes a hand towards her dress, and as she does, the holy symbol of Calistria on the back of her hand is visible, as she starts to answer " I am a priestess of Calistria, so I must admit that I am more a... holy person really. I do perform all the standard services required, so I have some.. second story work. But I do prefer the temple side of things." She did not seem to have much in the way of any equipment, but that did not mean she was not armed. She had her hair tied back with thin needles, which were daggers really, but she used them as hair ties.
She looks him over, noting falchion and longbow, and wishes she had packed a few more arrows. She had a small pack on her right side, and looking at it one could see the short bow and rapier attached. She also had some long stick hanging out the bag, which was a light mace, but really she used it more for fun than anything. She hadn't quiet mastered the whip just yet. " I would say that will do us well. I can heal some, and it sounds as if you can as well. Hopefully the rest get here as well. I am unsure what we are facing, do you have any idea?"
There is a banging sound on the floorboards just outside the door as someone apparently stomps the mud from their boots. They sound large and heavy. And indeed a tall figure enters, soaked head to tow despite the thick and well-worn cloak. They remove it to reveal woman of surprising stature and strength. She is easily one of the tallest in the room and carries herself with the grace of practiced warrior. She is dressed in masculine clothes with exposed arms that reveal an array of small burn scars. Scars that any blacksmith would recognize. Despite the wet state and unflattering, functional clothes, she is not unattractive. Her features are angular and strong giving her a kind of intimidating beauty to match her obviously dangerous presence. Coupled with the greatsword and bow on her back, she'd be difficult to approach.
She stalks into the room, deceptively quiet, despite her size and load. She heads for the bar first, to order something hot, then heads for the hearth to warm and dry. She sits close to Domitian and Mehaila though she says nothing. She seems focused on the embers for a bit before finally looking up. Recognition crosses her face. "Oh. It's you guys. Sorry. Rain always puts me in a sour mood. I'm Moira. I...kind'a forgot your names." She gives an embarrased smile and offers her hand to shake. Unlike her arms they are not scarred but are calloused and tough like the rest of her.
Domitian opens his mouth to answer Mehaila, but stops as Moira interjects. "Moira, of course, good to see you again. The weather is quite awful, does most moods no good I'd wager. My name's Domitian." He extends his hand to meet hers and gives a firm shake. He indicates Mehaila next to him and says "We were just discussing the journey before us, and what we'll be facing." Turning his gaze back to Mehaila, he says "I would imagine that the weather, wild animals, and bandits would be our chief concerns - normal things in the Stolen Lands. Not sure what else beyond that, though. Have either of you done much traveling before?"
Smiles and winks and Moira when she takes and shakes, stating " Mehaila, pleased to met you. Hopefully we will have fun together."her hands decidedly soft and small. She was impressed by a woman who was such a fine physical power, and felt better about the journey as it meant there was at least another female. Sure, she may not be as girly as Mehaila, but it was still nice to have someone who could relate. As Domitian addresses her, she nods. She honestly had not traveled much, which was obvious by her appearance. " I.. I have traveled to other's chambers in the dead of night, but outside of that? No. Novice priestess do not normally leave the temple. I only just recently was able to. Moira, what can you do to help the group?" Tilts her head towards Moira, awaiting an answer
Rain on the first day… she thought humans had a funny saying about rain on the first day but she couldn’t really recall. The rain was cold as it hit her scaled head but she trudged on in the muddy streets before arriving to the inn. Leather armor soaked through and through with mud covering her golden scales up along her bare feet and up slightly past her ankles.
Coming to the door she would push it open and step through the wooden portal. Taking a minute she’d look around the room, looking at the collected travelers and weary visitors, all drenched to some degree. It’d take a moment for her to even find the two conversing that she believed she had agreed to come on a little adventure to the stolen lands below.
This particular gold kobold was clad in thick but functional leather armor, straps and buckles holding the customized vest and leggings to her body. A thick tail followed behind her, adorned with a wet, but shiny piece of metal that looked like a long blade. The blade itself was covered with a small leather strap, covering the edges to prevent any accidental harm as she moved through the bodies towards the hearth where the gathering was forming. Upon her head was more draconic looking horns that most kobolds would actually have, which would instantly set her apart besides the additional quiver and sturdy looking bow strapped to her back. At her hips there were an array of attachments for her tail, from thick metal club to a coiled leather lash. Not only from her gear, but her features seemed much softer then a normal kobold in general.
She’d move to stand near the fire first, before looking towards the three, two females and a male, she assumed. Her eyes would dart over them, taking in their equipment, size, and posture before she’d speak at the very end of handshake of the two women, ”You three are part of the group I assume?” Tilting her head slightly as she asked, ”Vetra Nemrax,” she’d continue without pause, ”Nice to meet you all. Sorry for interrupting.” She'd offer a goofy smile that almost looked more like she was baring her row of sharp teeth.
Rosasaria quietly made her way downstairs, wearing an unusual set of stacked spectacles as she made her way to the bar. "One bowl of stew please." She fumbled on her person to retrieve a couple coins to slide to the man as she took her bowl and turned around. Only to be met with the four faces of those that she and Lyra had propositioned.
Nearly dropping her bowl she quickly sets it down and moves the lenses out of her violet gem-like eyes. Her long white hair was kind of tangled, and had bright golden blonde shock of a streak that ran through it. She was covered in smudges and small burns and still wore many of her bags and pouches. "I'm so sorry, my sis'll kill me if she knew that I was fooling around while she was out getting our last minute things. I mean I couldn't help it, I got caught up and..." She sucked in a deep breath and calmed her stammering. "That is to say you all did a wonderful job making the journey in this remarkable weather, I trust it wasn't too hard on any of you?" She asked, turning to each of them in turn before her stomach loudly rumbled. She blushed, "Don't mind me for a few, I am going to quell a ravenous terror beast for a moment." She said as she hungrily ate the hearty stew.
"Yeah, fun," Moira said a little wearily. That wink when they shook through her off a little. It might have been flirting and it might not. Elves had a reputation for being...free-spirited. "I uh, I finished my apprenticeship to be a blacksmith," she said. It was a partial truth. She was confident enough to put any apprentice to shame but technically it hadn't ended well. "Arms and armor mostly. I'm experimenting with new techniques to be a master. Ain't got a lick a magic but I want to craft magical armor and weapons some day. Thought a good long journey might give me the inspiration to take the next step. I'm also pretty good in the wild. Only been in and around Stoneclimb mostly but it ain't easy woods."
It took some force of will not to look disgusted at the kobold that wandered up to them. Sure she'd met Vetra before when the two half-elves pulled them together. But she'd never met one of the scaly people that wasn't a cowardly, sadistic little s*&$. Pests they were. "Moira," she replies tersely when it introduces itself. She then excuses herself to go have a chat with said Half-elf out of earshot from the others.
"Rosa right? You sure about bringing a kobold along? I mean that one don't act like they usually do but I've hunted down a few of them. Pests mostly. Stealing food, killing livestock, burning things. I've heard tales of them doing a lot worse though."
She fumbles a bit and politely excuses herself to go speak with Moira. She also used similar hushed tones. "I believe anyone that wishes to put themselves forward to be a valuable asset to our party. Perhaps you would like to tell Lyra that you don't approve of anyone we've deemed perfectly acceptable." She wore a sly grin, that bordered almost dangerous, before her face softened and warmed once more. "I do believe that your worries are unfounded dear Moira. My sister happens to be rather picky when it comes to who she wishes to travel with. I do believe Vetra will be a fine choice, albeit a tad young for even a Kobold, but she is capable from what I understand."
She nudged Moira gently in the ribs. "Come, don't let your first impressions be soured. I would rather let actions speak more then just mere words, wouldn't you agree?" She went back to join the others at the table, letting Moira rejoin at her own convenience.
"Sorry but you live by first impressions in the wild. If it's got teeth and claws you stay away." She gives the kobold another once over. "Everyone makes mistakes. Could be Lyra. Hope its me." She pauses for a bit. "Ain't never seen a golden one before. Gold dragons are good dragons right?" she asks as they walk back over.
Wasn’t too surprised by the terse reply from Moira, it was common place always being reacted to with a bit of pretense of what the majority of what her kinship does. Her smile vanished quickly, put off by the sudden exclusion as Moira took the elf to the side. She’d study to the two for a second, but push her mind past it. She had been getting odd stares and looks the entire time she arrived to this town or city, whatever they called it. She shrugged her shoulders and moved to get closer to the fireplace, as the leather armor was rather sticking to her scales and making it just slightly uncomfortable to wear something damp that was also cooling. She wouldn’t be too surprised if the rest of the entourage reacted the same way as the human did.
She'd hoist her small frame up on the stone hearth, letting the heated stones help keep her warm and dry, at the very least her rump. Bringing her tail around she would lay it in her lap as she checked the attachment and grabbed a rag from one of the small pouches on her armor and began to clean off any mud that made its way onto her scales and weapon. When you were this small, mud and dirt usually got everywhere.
She’d glance up and give a slight smile to the returning two as if nothing happened. She’d give Moira a better study though incase things went south, never hurt to be prepared. ”The travel wasn’t hard. Muddy, but that’s all. Had to stick to the side.” Vetra replied to the question the half-elf gave before being walked off by the human. Her voice was a bit less excited than initially, seemingly more reserved now as she watched the group as she cleaned the mud from the bindings that kept her tail attachment… attached. "Hopefully better weather were we are going."
Domitian's eyes fell on the golden scaled kobold when she enters, recognizing her immediately. Hard to forget such a unique sight. "Welcome, Vetra. We are part of the group. My name is Domitian." He glances with interest at Moira's hasty exit. Not comfortable with the kobold; not surprising. Isn't often to come alongside one like this. Still, though, I've met more than my fair share of nasty humans; don't see why there can't be some not-nasty kobolds... He gives Vetra an encouraging smile, and makes room before the fire.
When Rosasaria and Moira return, he rises again. "Good to see you again Rosasaria. I'm sure your sister will join us presently." He settles back in to his spot by the fire, and takes a drink. An interesting crew for sure.
Rose looked up at her smaller companion, and then back to the others, letting out a bit of a sigh. And so it begins... She thought to herself. She couldn't wait till Lyra got back from the errands she decided to run. She had an equal say in everything and on everyone joining, but she did like to default to Lyra in times like this. She always seemed to know what to say or what to do. Not to say that she was an overly willful person by any stretch of the imagination.
She nodded and greeted Domitian in turn. "Good to see that you made it as well." Upon his mentioning of Lyra she kind of got a far away look in her eyes, as if studying something just out of focus, but not quite able to be grasped fully.
She returned back from her little trip out of reality for a moment and turned back to them. "Ah hopefully my dear sister Lyra won't make us wait for too much longer before gracing us with her presence. She's usually very punctual if it were not for me and my experiments taking undue time now and again." She gave kind of a sheepish smile as she fiddled with some of her various pouches she seemed inclined to always wear.
"Now however, just to get the elephant out of the room and already set the ground for each of us to trust the other implicitly. I am a half elf yes? I told you that much?" She looks around to see the acknowledgements of those around her before continuing. "The part that I neglected to mention and didn't feel the need to is what exactly is the nature of the birth of my sister and I. We were born of a drow raping our dear aasimar mother. Which would explain at least some of the noteworthy quirks in both my appearance and Lyra's. Why am I telling you this? I wish to leave the notions of Racism and discrimination here and now behind us. We chose each of you for your qualification, not necessarily what you are flesh and blood."
She pauses to let those words sink in before continuing on. "Now if you come from a background that favors these hostilities, then I am sorry for your pain and difficult time you had to struggle through. However we have to work together, cause we cannot work apart. That is the only way we will reclaim the stolen lands."
She leans back and regards them once more before finishing her thought. "Now this isn't to put any blame on any of you, and I am not trying to lecture you or even treat you like children. I believe all of us here at this table, with Lyra included, are adults. We can make our own choices and live our own lives. I just wish to see all the amazing things that have been rumored to exist in the stolen lands. I wish to perfect my art." She pulls out a bottle filled with a dubious liquid that sloshes around inside it's flask as she waves it about. "All of you who chose to join us have a similar wish yes?"
Moira scowled slightly at being called out indirectly. She wouldn't cause problems but she wouldn't explicitly trust them. Not yet. She didn't know any of them beyond what they had said today. She was surprised to hear Rosasaria was half drow. She thought the hair was an was an elven thing or dyed. She looked around and realized she might be the only human in the group. Two half-drow, a kobold, an elf? And Domitian felt...off to her too. If she wasn't so confident in her fighting and survival skills she'd be a lot more nervous. Maybe this wasn't the right journey?
"About that. What are we doing in the Stolenlands? The announcement wasn't all that descriptive. Just said tame them."
Shakes her head. You can't blame children for the faults of the children, but just as most Drow are raised to hate Elves, it works both ways. She did flinch a bit, and grew somewhat red, as the two sisters were proof that not all drow offspring were blackhearted bastards who would... Now is not the time for that particular memory. They are not her, and so you should treat them with respect. In recent years the proof that drow are not evil by birth has been whispered about, so she could trust them. Did not make her anymore comfortable, but she would be an adult.
" I am just along to keep us alive and to prove emotional and spiritual support. And to heal old wounds I suppose." Winks at Rosasaria, an obvious attempt at flirting" Besides, I am sure you could convince me otherwise about... half drow?"
Rose bit her lip softly, she didn't want to feel like she singled anyone out. She frowned as her attempt to wipe out possible problems had no such effect. "I don't know the fullest extent of 'taming' the wilds means, but if I do recall... We are going to be a small expedition that will do our best to start setting footholds in this wilderness to try and get it settled. From all intents and purposes, the various resources that are found within such lands are to finance such a settlement process. As far as further details than that, Lyra I believe knows better."
She turned to Mehaila and flushed slightly at the wink and the comment. "I mean I suppose I could, but I don't pray tell you want me to convince you about me or my sister. I mean the way we were raised more half elf or not elf than anything really." Even her slightly pointed ears reddened some. She fidgeted with the straps on her belts and pouches, fumbling with the fastenings.
When she finally managed to regain her composure she turned to Moira. "If it isn't intrusive, and you are comfortable with it, I would like to know a little more about you. I am not entirely familiar with those scars you have, but..." She rolls up her singed and ruddy clothing to reveal a series of strangely shaped burns. "I feel a kinship of sorts, even if they aren't exactly the same." She gives kind of an awkward smile, tucking her blonde streak back behind one slightly pointed ear.
Moira's eyes widen a little at the similar scars. "Are you..." she trails off as she looks at Rosasaria's physic. She looked strong, sure, but not strong enough to pump bellows for days or pound metal into the right shape. And her hands were too thin and delicate. She looks down at her own arms and sees that there are slight differences. "What did those come from?"
Vetra gave a curt nod to Domitian. He seemed like a human but she had a bit of an off feeling with him. Well to be quite honest she had mixed feelings of the group in general. She’d lick her lips quickly before finishing up on cleaning the mud from her tail. Shaking out the towel she’d just simply listen to the conversation that progressed. She didn’t seem to be listening to the speech the half-elf gave. She didn’t particularly feel inspired or changed at all.
Glancing at the others, she’d cleared her throat, pointing a finger at Rosasaria, ”I appreciate your words earlier but to be quite frank.” She paused looking at each one in turn, ”Trust comes later, we can all agree we want to go to the Stolen Lands, but honestly everyone's own motives are well... their own.” She’d give a pointed look to Moira, ”Despite who we are or what we want.” She’d look to the group as a whole, ”We can’t simply just disregard racism or discrimination, it’s not so easily washed away.” She reclined back, ”It’s silly to think that.”
When the conversation moved to the scars the two women had, Vetra lost any and all interest and simply stood, dusting off her legs she would make way towards the bar, perhaps they would serve a kobold for a few coins.
She let her sleeve slide back down again. "One too many accidents when trying something new with my various experiments. I'm an alchemist and scars are common when working with chemicals and fire. Part of the reason I am looking forward to the unknown resources in the stolen lands. I hope to find something that might stabilize some of my attempts better. She smiled, "I also like to make potions. I hope to eventually be able to make more magic items in a variety of types, but potions are pretty much my specialty."
She frowned some at Vetra's remarks, though she had to agree with her. Ultimately even though she wanted everyone to start with a clean slate during this partnership, it would seem that it was going to be otherwise for a little longer.
"Hey Vetra." She softly called out. "I may not be able to quite understand where you are coming from, but I wasn't just blowing smoke when I was speaking of eliminating discrimination. I believe my sister, Lyra, her dream is to be able to found a place where it doesn't matter what you are, everyone accepts you." She smiles and shakes her head. "You're probably right, that it's something I can't just speak and have it swept under the rug. I would hope that someday my sister and I can change that opinion though."
Rubs the back of her head, her tightly braided red hair moving with the rubbing. She understood Vetra stance more than the others thought. She understood the strong disapproving one of her old relationships had, and it had ended the way others told her, but the sisters could prove her wrong. If their mother raised them there was hope for them.
" Rose, you and your sister are proof of the horrid acts each is capable of. I can say most of us gathered, you both included, know that discrimation happens. I... I can say I have had relationships with most all humanoid races, and yet drow are... well... I can say a streak of the forbidden makes things sweeter. But our races do have a history of conflict. You can't avoid that. But if we all work together, we may not end the racism, but we can show that even an elf an halfdrow can find peace, even be together as much as one like me could ever be." She was a bit surprised by the blush, but when one was truthful a holy prostitute, things did change. She couldn't begrudge them that. But she did ha e hope the group could overcome their differences. It is a great an honorable dream. Anyone I could bring comfort and pleasure to without fear of anyone condemning us would be nice. But I suppose my position I can help that dream. If I can show that no matter who I choice to lay with, I can still bring glory to Calistria, it will change minds. That is a honorable goal.
"Relationships..." She thought for a moment, pondering. "Well I am close to my sister, and don't have too many friends... except..." Her eyes widen as she suddenly has a realization. She looks quickly around her immediate person and under the table. Not finding what she sought immediately, she stands abruptly and runs off. "For the love of everything- !" She cries out as she quickly flees up the stairs toward the rooms of the inn. Thuds and clatters echo from upstairs, before slowly fading into a deafening silence.
After several minutes of silence, she comes back down with a beautifully polished wooden staff. Her hair is disheveled and messy, she has a little bit of sweat on her face and neck. "I was worried that I lost this. My sister and this staff are my two most prized companions." She sits back down, running her hand over the smooth, polished wood. "Two of the only friends I have had in such a long time." She looks extremely relieved having found it, although it seems rather unremarkable and rather plain.
After several moments she looks up. "I suppose you could call me crazy, eccentric, too trusting. I never ask for more than what I wish in return. Life so far has taught me it's really easy to be burned..." She continues to comfort herself with her staff as one would with a pet.
"Yeah?" Between the beginning and the end of that one word Moira's demenor went from doubtful to interested. Rosa had found, in her father's words, Moira's babble button. She could have had a knife to her throat with an angry orc trying to eat her and babble happily about blacksmithing if one made the mistake of asking. "That's kind of why I'm here too. My teacher was like, really set in his ways about crafting metal. He was good at what he did, don't get me wrong, but he'd never be a master. He said it was too expensive and possibly dangerous considering you need some rare ingredients. From what I have heard that is true and other masters guard their secrets like a dragon. So I figured I'd head south and hopefully find some inspiration. I've already got a few ideas..." and so on until someone decides to stop her.
The door opened to a blast of cold wind to allow a tall and slim figure to slip through and push the door shut with an effort. The wet hood was drawn back and mane of deep red hair shook out the last of the moisture before the half elf looked up and around the room. She was dressed in a heavy green cloak that shifted open to reveal simple leather armor and a scimitar. She had pale, almost iridescent skin and very faint, curling tattoos on her left cheek reminiscent of vines. Her vivid amber eyes scanned the room until they lit on Rosasaria and the woman smiled.
She eased her way through the tangle of patrons and tables and even dodged one questing hand that sought to pinch her bottom. She stepped up to the group and quickly hugged the other half elven woman before sitting down. "I managed to convince him, it's parked behind the inn with several barrels of supplies. Even has the fittings for a cover if I get the materials to build one."
The woman looked at the rest of the group and smiled pleasantly. "It's good that you all made it. Sorry for being so late, I was negotiating for the price of a wagon and the merchant was very stubborn. Not a very auspicious start is it?"
"Oh by all that is lush and beautiful." Rose managed to breathe a huge sigh of relief. She returned her sister's hug and felt a huge burden that she had not originally notice lift from her chest and shoulders. Lyra always was a comforting presence to her, just as much as her trusty staff was. As long as she had both, she felt strong and determined. Then her sister's words finally sank in. "Oh dear, I hope it wasn't too expensive, I did promise I would help pay for it after all."
She pouted a little. Even though they were twins, they had so many features between them that was such a stark contrast. From the shocking differences in hair, to their remarkably unusual eyes. Their faces were the only things truly identical between them, and she never understood why Lyra had to get her's covered in tattoos. Not that she minded them, they were exotic and made her sister look even more beautiful. She just knew that she didn't have the nerve to get something like that done on her face. Perhaps on her arms, where she had all her burn scars, or even other places that were similarly burned...
She shook her head and smiled broadly. "I am just glad you are finally here, I told them as much as I could remember you discussing with me before you went shopping, and then I got sidetracked." She glanced away, hoping to not have to see her older sister scolding her for messing with her experiments again. "But hey! Everyone I believe we met with made it! That's truly good news despite the weather and all right?" Demonstrating a desire to try and shift the conversation and its focus from her as much as possible.
Vetra would shortly return, weaving through the shifting patrons, trying to avoid spilling anything. She held a rather large platter, lined with cups, one for everyone. Small simple cups but each were filled with drink. A gesture of goodwill at the least of all things. She’d set the platter upon the table, having to lift herself to her toes in order to do so. Clearing her throat, she’d glanced to the new half-elf that appeared, the other ones sister, she presumed. ”Everyone here now?” she’d ask with a wry smile.
Going to her tip toes again, she’d grab one of the drinks before planting herself near the fire again, resting her rear end on the stone hearth. ”A drink before the adventure yes?” She’d raise the cup then, gesturing to everyone. ”Not a very auspicious one, yes. But, good things will come. Hopefully.” She’d glance to Moira for a moment. ”Goodwill gesture.” It was enough she could get out without sounding slightly strained. Her eyes shifting to everyone present, ”For everyone,” she added quite quickly.
Moira stopped talking at Rosasaria when the last of their group showed up. One that was more elf than drow. She'd never think them sisters until she noticed they could swap faces and look exactly the same. Well minus the eyes. Amber versus amethyst. But now that the last had arrived, they could get on with things and hopefully leave the awkwardness between herself and the others behind. They'd be getting very close to one another on such a journey.
She looks at Vetra as the kobold raises a toast. The kobold looks back and Moira looks away for a moment, slightly uncomfortable. She looks back, determined at least not to make things worse. She raises her glass and echoes the sentiment, "Hopefully."
Claps, laughing softly as Vetra came back with a bunch of drinks. She takes her, and raises it above her head, in a very clear cheerful manner. She then speaks, hoping to eases her companions ill thoughts.
" Here is to a new start, new relationships, and a new journey. I am positive we all will make it through this, and all become stronger for it. Might even find love," She would wink at Rosasaria then before continuing, " We shall group together and enjoy this last moment of civilization." She then drinks, enjoying the last few bits of what will probably be good drink until they make it back to civilized land. This would be a long and rough journey, and she was not sure she had packed enough for the trip. But one never knew until the trip was started and underway what was truly needed and was not
Rose took one and did a small gesture for her toast, as others went through theirs. She had started drinking when Mehaila spoke her own toast, and she turned to see her winking. She swallowed wrong and began coughing, setting the delicate glassware down as she struggled to breathe. She took her staff from her lap and placed it upright next to her, leaning on it heavily during her coughing fit. After a few moments of coughing, her eyes almost welled up with tears, she managed to draw a shuddering breath. "To the road ahead." She managed to weakly croak, still coughing some now and then.
It was an unpleasant, burning sensation, but nothing when it came to the burns she had felt on her skin. She thought about all the scars she had, and wondered if the road ahead would give her more. She looked back to Lyra, and smiled, and then rubbed her thumb on the smoothly polished wood of her staff, feeling the carvings that were not unlike the intricate patterns upon her sister's countenance. No one knew what lay ahead of them, only what lay behind them. It was this thought that made Rose determined to see these individuals grow along with Lyra and herself.
Domitian accepts the drink from Vetra with a smile. Already this one shows more civility than many of those of the "civilized" races I know. This will certainly be interesting. He raises his glass with the others, offers a simple "May Erastil guide us all" before taking a deep drink of the glass.
Vetra smiled as everyone began to pick up the mugs. She’d echoed the same sentiment before downing the mug quickly. Placing it to the side she clasp her hands as she leaned forward, letting her feet kick slightly. ”So, when shall we leave? I doubt the weather will clear up with how heavy it’s coming down.” She’d tilt her head to the side once more, an obvious quirk of hers when she asks questions. ”I speak for myself when I say this, but I have an itch to get moving.” She’d smile then, ”I fear if we don't get going soon, we will have to wait for the two lovers to recover.” She’d tip her head towards Mehaila and Rosasaria with quite the toothy grin. ”Even for a soft skin, that one looks like a gem you’d find in a dragon's hoard.” A kobolds compliment, even though it was odd.
She'd pause her feet kicking at that time as a realization just hit her, she'd look to Domitian with a coy smirk. "I just realized... your the only male in the group..." She'd lean in with a mischievous flicker in her eyes, "How did you get so lucky?" Well it seemed liquor worked really quickly on the little kobold. Not surprising on how she just downed the entire cup in one go. She wasn't very bright when it came to ingesting liquor.
Domitian's eyes widen just a little at Vetra's innuendo. He then frowns. "I am lucky to have an opportunity to protect others as they travel into the wilderness, and to have an exciting adventure before me; that is quite enough excitement for me." He looks very uncomfortable in this particular conversation, and quickly takes another drink.
Turning to the others, he then seconds Vetra's initial question. "When are we heading out?"
"Now now Vetra, if you keep this up I am going to have to start whipping up something to cool that hot blood of yours." Rose smirks wryly as she watches Domitian be teased by their little friend. "But then again it could be way too much." She looked up at the ceiling thoughtfully, before turning to Domitian again. "As far as when we are heading out? Possibly after the storm blows over, but it's up to Lyra if she wants to leave sooner. Sounds like she already got a lot of the supplies we need, so I suggest if there is anything last minute you think you might want to get still then by all means purchase it."
"Wouldn't do any good to leave now," Moira says conversationally. As attention turns to her she elaborates. "It's wet and raining and muddy. If we leave tomorrow after it's dried a bit we'd probably catch up to someone that left now and got stuck in the mud. 'Sides, horses hate lightning. Good luck getting them to move during a storm. They'd bolt for the nearest shelter anyway." She sinks further into the chair and gets comfortable, fairly confident they'd see reason and do the same.
She sits up when Vetra teases Domitian. And even more as he grows uncomfortable. This brings up a disturbing image of a kobold doing...that but is pushed away quickly. As a hunter, Moira had honed predatory instincts and they had locked onto a skiddish prey. "Doubt it. Traveling the wilds. Far from civilization. Get's pretty lonely out there."
Vetra snapped her eyes quickly to Rosa, a chuckle rising from her, ”I doubt you can find something that can. If you do, I’ll give you a scale.” A small little hiccup escaped her after she spoke. She’d blink and chuckle lightly before looking towards Moira, ”Horses? Ugh I hate horses…” She never ridden one and she only saw them as a resource for food. Also, a tiny kobold trying to clamber upon a horse is quite a sight to see, especially one they kept falling onto their asses.
Refocusing back onto the male of the group, she’d tilt her head, pointing a claw towards him, ”Oh come… you have to have a secret here.” She had sensed the honing in from Moira and it only provoked the kobold to maintain her focus back on Domitian.
Seeing Vetra's feisty reaction followed by the hiccup, made Rose chuckle a little. "I might have to take you up on that eventually, you do have rather beautiful scales." She then turned to the others as she tried to drink her drink once more, swallowing and speaking softly. "I trust you all have made arrangements for staying if we are going to wait out the storm? I can always extend our stay another night easily." She looked towards the widows outside hearing the rain pouring outside and the distant rumble of thunder now and then. She didn't know whether to take the weather as an ill omen, but if no one else was bothered too terribly by it, neither would she.
Shrugs, not really sure how much she can add to the conversation. Having not truly traveled, she could understand not wanting to travel when it was raining. She still doubted it was an ill omen, but she would defer to the ones who knew what they were doing. She would mention softly " I could do with another night in a warm bed, maybe even with a warm body beside me. However, we can not wait to long, or we may be replaced no?" She would swirl any remaining drink around, as she itched to leave, but lacked any ability to strike out or make that call.
She would look over the forms of all her companions, not quiet hidden, but all knew it was more a function of her religion than anything. Perhaps one of them would enjoy a private night for the last chance they had.
Rolling her eyes at the flirting flying back and forth across the table, Lyra felt bad for the human male. If he wanted to survive in this group though, especially with the elven female...well he was going to have to endure. She sat back and looked back and forth as the comments flew about. After a minute she dug into the cloak covering most of her frame and pulled forth a rolled parchment, only slightly wrinkled. She dropped the paper in the middle of the table and motioned at it with her hand. "No one is going to take our commision. It's right here. Today, tomorrow, it really doesn't matter. The Stone Lands aren't going anywhere."
Rose smiled and clapped her hands. "Perfect! Then we don't have to brave the weather and catch unnecessary colds and whatnot. I wouldn't mind another drink and spending some time getting to know you all a bit better before we fully set out and into the wilderness." She looked to her sister, as if exchanging some unspoken words back and forth.
What have I gotten myself into....
Deciding to side-step the uncomfortable innuendos flying all about the place, Domitian latches on to the last statement from Rosasaria. "Yes, we should get to know each other more. Why have you all decided to risk life and limb trying to settle the reaches of the Stolen Lands?"
"Because of this." Lyra said while motioning at the Inn around them. "Because of how many kingdoms are firmly one species, how many ensure that only their race will rise to positions of dominance. Kyonin, the kingdom of the elves who abandoned us all when Earthfall happened. Cheliax, Taldor, Ustalav, all kingdoms in various states of decay. All of these countries ignore the potential of a great country by ensuring that anyone not human or not elf ever rises to a position of influence. I want to create something more up here in the harsh north, a glorious kingdom that could rival ancient Azlant!"
The woman suddenly cut off, realizing that she was beginning to preach at the group. Having the good grace to look embarrassed she took a small vial from a holder on her armor and uncorked it. Steeling herself she drank the amber liquid in one go and gasped slightly afterwards. Replacing the cork she handed the vial to Rosasaria with a slight frown. "A little on the smokey side. The apple flavor is smothered by it."
Rose blushed and took the vial from her. "I- I'm sorry sis, I thought I managed to finally perfect the brewing this time." She pouted and sniffed it, wincing when she caught the smell of what Lyra had described. "Oh dear, I guess one of the ingredients burned when I prepared it..." She gave a long sigh and pocketed the vial into one of her many pouches she wore.
She turned to Domitian, and tilted her head. "My reasons aren't quite as noble as my dear sister's, but I will fight tooth and nail to see her dream come true. A curse on you if you think otherwise." Her lip curled a bit before she burst out laughing. Quickly she calmed down again, suppressing a little giggle as she continued. "Ah but in all seriousness I suppose that my reasons aren't actually too different than my fellow craftsman here." She reached over and placed her hand gently on Moira's own. "I have reason to believe there are things hidden in those lands, living and mineral that may help me make some interesting discoveries with my mixtures and tinctures. If I can achieve my goal and help my sister with hers then I like to kill two birds with one stone."
Seeing her probing making the man uncomfortable, which was more humorous than any other response he would’ve gave, she seemed a bit satisfied with her results. Leaning back against the stonework near the fireplace, she’d consider the mans question, or well redirection of the conversation. Though before she thought about it too much she’d look to Lyra as she responded. She’d raised a brow, seeing that her reasons aligned… in somewhat fashion with her own. Though she was in fact unsurprised by Rosasaria response. Crafters, seeking the next challenge always had the fuel to their fire. Though she didn’t dismiss it, she actually was a bit… jealous of it. She herself was never good at crafting.
”My reasons are simple,” she’d reply once there was a pause in the conversation so she could voice her opinions without interrupting someone else. ”I was thrown out of my own mother tribe because of my colors and differences. I found others like me, who would’ve died if it had not been for some kindness shown to me.” She’d pause, frowning. A hand would move to her the spot to her body where she had removed a scale. Rubbing the location as she recalled the memories, absentmindedly. ”I want to find my own kind a home. A home that we belong and not hunted. We are not like the other chromatics. We want to grow and contribute.” She’d look down, ”Lyra idea speaks to me. My kind does not want to live in shadow, in fear. We are not trophies to be mounted on an adventurer's home. To be able to sleep in a safety of a city, to be able to not make those hard choices or sacrifices to stay alive.” He voice trailed as she lost herself to those thoughts. Her chirpy drunken mood quickly replaced by a somber one.
Gets quiet for a bit, thinking long on her answer. Why do I wish to settle? That is a good question... I doubt my answer is one they wish to hear... she looks over at the sisters, both not fully elven, but yet, closer to her than the others. She sighs, and looks about, obviously not quite telling the truth. It wasn't a lie, but it wasn't the whole truth. " I would like to practice my relgion freely, love who I wish... " and a bit more quietly, " be with who I wish" while looking at Lyra and Rosasaria, with fondness. If nothing else, all her flirting aside, the two half elven girls reminded her of someone, that much was clear. She twirls a strand of her hair, awaiting for the last members of the group to share their reasons.
The group sat there for a few hours as the storm howled outside, turning drinks into a full meal and becoming more comfortable with each other. They agreed to hold off on departing in no more than 48 hours, rain or shine.
Day 1
The day of departure dawned with clear skies and a slight breeze. It was a bit cool as summer began to give way to fall and the group set out from the city of Restov. Lyra and Rosa were seated on the 4 wheeled carriage loaded with barrels of supplies and pulled by a pair of sturdy horses. The road was muddy enough that soon the horses legs were coated with mud but did little to slow the cart and group down. The trip to their first destination would take a little more than a week. The first day passed uneventfully as the group pulled over to the side of the road to set up camp for the night.