Walking into the large common room Leto smiles nervously at the people inside. "Um... hello all." He ducked his head and when Tabak ducks into the door he turns a bit, "And this is Tabak, my uh... guardian." The boy studies the other guests, eyes moving slightly as if waves moved in his huge blue irises, until the little head poked from the young woman's cloak. "Is that... is that a griffon?!?" Leto's thin face lit with wonder and he moved quickly to her. "Oh my god I've never seen a griffon... rather small isn't he? Look at his beak. I've heard a full grown one can tear a horse in half with one bi..." He trails off as he realizes that, unintentionally in his excitement, he had moved his head much closer to the young woman's chest than he had intended to. His face blushing a bright and painful red he stumbled back. "Oh, I am so sorry, I never meant to... I mean.... I just..." He stopped, obviously composing himself. "Breathe young one." Tabak's thunderous voice said. Biting his lip, young Leto smiled at the woman, charm back on in full force, "I'm so sorry milady. I was so entranced by your griffin I hadn't noticed how inappropriate I had been." He extended one slender, pale hand. "My name is Letohandrines North milady, and you are?" He smiled, obviously recovering from his faux pas.
"My what a fascinating creature you have there. What else are you hiding under that cloak?" Alaric says with another grin. "I am Alaric Winter." He gives a low bow, much lower than he gave to Oleg or Svetlana.
"Nice grin, Alaric Winter. As to what else lies within this cloak, best I continue the mystery." She noticed his elegant bow and was a little embarrassed by the gesture, not being used to such gallantry.
"I'm Ariarh Kane. My friend's call me Ry. It's good to meet you." She extended her hand. Back on the ranch they were more used to shaking hands upon greeting than such elegant graces as bowing.
"And, this noisy fellow is Dior. He is cute to look at, to be sure, but his manners are a little ... underdeveloped as yet." Ry laughed, couldn't help herself, as Dior began preening under the attention.
Also, Just finished guideon's survey. About to edit character based on DM input.
Character Survey
Where was your character born?
In a small rural community on the edge of the frontier
Who raised him/her?
His parents until he was 3 then a traveling merchant when his mother left him in the woods.
What was happening in the region when your character was growing up?
He grew up with a traveling merchant.
Does your character have any relatives?
Not that he knows
Motivation
What are your character’s immediate goals? What would she like to do in the coming year? Challenging himself to improve his skills. In the coming year he would be interested in possibly starting a dojo for his fighting style.
What are her long-term goals?
Possibly discovering the secrest of his past
What type of person would be her ideal mate?
He has trust issues.
Who is her patron deity? Is she a devout worshiper?
He has reverence for the oakfather whom he believes gave him his birthmark. He’s not devout, but he is respectful.
Is she a devout member of any nonreligious cause?
no
Is there any race, creed, alignment, religion or the like against which she is strongly prejudiced?
Anything that’s overtly destrictive of nature.
What is her greatest fear?
Getting close enough to someone that it would hurt if they abandoned them.
What is the one task she absolutely refuses to do?
Kill a child
Idiosyncrasies
What is your character’s motto or favorite saying?
Watch this.
What is her favorite color?
Forest green
Describe what she would wear if money were no object?
Loose tunic.
What is her favorite food? Drink?
Smoked Boar Shank
What is her favorite animal?
Birds.
What habits of her friends annoy her most?
Overt Calousness
Traits:
(rank each trait from 1 to 10)
Loyalty
Calm temper
Patience
Honesty
Helpfulness
Curiosity
Courtesy
Valor
Cheerfulness
Self-sacrifice
Generosity
Sobriety
Optimism
Forgiveness
Miscellaneous
What well-known media figure from sports, movies or politics most closely resembles your character?
Riddick, but with more of a Jedi personality
What would be her theme song?
I’m not a music person.
If her friends were to write her epitaph, what would it be?
Simply, but well lived.
What would be her job in modern society?
Personal Trainer
Introduction Questions
Do you have any nicknames, street names, titles, or aliases?
No.
What is your full birth name?
Gideon ?? He doesn’t remember his last name.
Where do you live?
The road
Why do you live there?
Its how he was raised
What is your citizenship status?
None recognized
What is your most obvious blessing or strength?
Large tree like tattoo across back and strong frame
What is your most obvious flaw or weakness?
Heritage
Was there any event or cause to cause these weaknesses?
Birth
Physical Traits
What is your general body type, frame, bone structure, and poise?
Large muscular, but graceful
What is your skin colour?
Light brown
What is your hair colour?
Black
What is your hairstyle?
Short
Do you have any facial hair?
Not presently, but it tends to grow out when on the road for long times
What is your eye colour?
Green
Does it change?
no
How attractive are you?
Moderately, but not ugly.
What is your most distinguishing feature?
Half orc face plus tattoo on back
Do you have any scars, tattoos, or birthmarks?
Tree on back
What is your handedness (left/right)?
Left
Do you resemble some currently known person?
no
Do you wear a uniform?
Hell no
What kind of clothing do you wear?
Loose fitting tunic with leather armor under
What is your clothing's style or level of sophistication?
Country raised, but well traveled
What sort of vocal tone do you have?
Calm, but determined
Do you get sick? Maybe you catch the flu twice a year and that's it? Or maybe you have a weak immune system and catch anything that goes around?
Not sick often
History
Where is your homeland?
unknown
What are its people like?
Salt of the earth farmer types
Are you aware of its history?
Only vaguely
Are you patriotic or a social outcast?
Outcast by heritage
What are your opinions of home?
Very vague memories
Did you witness any historical events?
no
Are your real reasons for becoming an adventurer different from what you tell others?
no
How do you feel about other races?
As a target of much social injustice he has sympathy for other pariahs
Were there any traumatic experiences in your early years (death of a family member, abandonment, orphaned at an early age, etc.)?
Mother left him in the woods to die
Did you have any childhood friends?
Only the merchant that raised me
Are you still close to them or have you grown apart?
He travels, but we’re close
Which toys from your childhood have you kept?
none
What conflicts might arise from your past?
Maybe the merchant cheated someone and they cant find him, so they find me?
Do you have any sort of criminal record?
Havent spent much time in civilization
Family
Who were your parents?
Salt of the earth farm people who left him in the woods to die
Were you raised by them?
no
What did your parents and/or foster parents do for a living?
Merchant
What was their standing in the community?
Respected, but not wealthy
Did your family stay in one area or move around a lot?
Traveling merchant
How did you get along with your parents?
Up until she left me in the woods to die
How would your parents describe you?
Probably dead somewhere
Are any or all of your family still alive?
unknown
Personality/Beliefs
Do you, or did you, have any role models?
The merchant that raised me and the monks
Do you have any great rational or irrational fears or phobias?
no
What, if anything, would it take for you to be able to overcome this?
NA
How do you react when this fear manifests itself?
NA
Are you willing to discuss, or even admit to, the situation?
Lol. It would seem not. ;-)
What are your attitudes regarding material wealth?
Useful, but ultimately fleeting.
Are you miserly with your share of the wealth, or do you spend it freely?
Share freely. I can’t see Guideon owning much more than he can carry.
Are you greedy or generous?
Generous
Do you see wealth as a mark of success, or just as a means to an end?
Means to an end
How do you generally treat others?
With respect.
Do you trust easily (perhaps too easily) or not?
He doesn’t trust or rely on anyone until they prove worthy of such trust
Are you introverted (shy and withdrawn) or extroverted (outgoing)?
Introverted.
Are you a humble soul or blusteringly proud?
Humble
Do you act differently than you feel (concealing your true thoughts)?
No
What is your favourite type of animal?
Birds. He envies the freedom of flight.
Is there anything that enrages you?
Good conversation and wise council
Do you enjoy "roughing it", or do you prefer your creature comforts?
Somewhere in between, but he’s accustomed to roughing it
What would you do if something were stolen from you?
Attempt to get it back
What would you do if you were badly insulted publicly?
Turn the other cheek unless they challenged my honor
What do you consider to be the worst crime someone could commit and why?
Abandoning/mistreating a child
Do you support the current government of your homeland?
indifferent
What form of government do you believe is the best (democracy, monarchy, anarchy, aristocratic rule, oligarchy, matriarchy) and why?
Wise monarchy
Have you ever been persecuted for your political stance?
Just for my species
Do you have any unusual or nervous mannerisms, such as when talking, thinking, afraid, under stress, or when embarrassed?
no
What is your most treasured possession?
None as of yet. But if forced to pick the staff Gideon made himself
Do you have a good luck charm?
no
Do you prefer to tear down or build up?
Walk among
Are you deliberate or spontaneous?
Deliberate, but with room for improvisation
Do you prefer the town or the country?
town
If made to decide, would you rather be deaf or blind? Why?
Deaf. More happens by sight than by sound.
Describe your worst nightmares.
abandonment
Also, Just finished guideon's survey. About to edit character based on DM input.
** spoiler omitted **...
"Oh great," a fat bustling man said swinging open a heavy gate to your presence, a thick deluge pouring down from the skies. "Come on, come, why don't you hurry up, then," he adds as you hurry up the path.
"And what's YOUR name? Oleg's mine," he adds, taking a gulp from a mug. His balding head is covered by a leather hood, and is soaked through. Over his shoulder across a muddy courtyard is an open door from which song and good cheer are pouring out of.
"Oh, don't mind ME, I only OWN the place," he adds, with a cantankerous growl, the smell of alcohol on his breath. "But you just go on in, help yourself to food AND drink, while I keep waiting out here for another one of you folk to come riding by," he adds, grumbling to himself.
"My what a fascinating creature you have there. What else are you hiding under that cloak?" Alaric says with another grin. "I am Alaric Winter." He gives a low bow, much lower than he gave to Oleg or Svetlana.
"Nice grin, Alaric Winter. As to what else lies within this cloak, best I continue the mystery." She noticed his elegant bow and was a little embarrassed by the gesture, not being used to such gallantry.
"I'm Ariarh Kane. My friend's call me Ry. It's good to meet you." She extended her hand. Back on the ranch they were more used to shaking hands upon greeting than such elegant graces as bowing.
"And, this noisy fellow is Dior. He is cute to look at, to be sure, but his manners are a little ... underdeveloped as yet." Ry laughed, couldn't help herself, as Dior began preening under the attention.
"It is an absolute pleasure to meet you, Ry." He says taking her hand lightly in his and bowing over it, placing a gentle kiss upon her fingers. "Tell me, my lady. Where are you from?
"It is an absolute pleasure to meet you, Ry." He says taking her hand lightly in his and bowing over it, placing a gentle kiss upon her fingers. "Tell me, my lady. Where are you from?
"My what a fascinating creature you have there. What else are you hiding under that cloak?" Alaric says with another grin. "I am Alaric Winter." He gives a low bow, much lower than he gave to Oleg or Svetlana.
"Nice grin, Alaric Winter. As to what else lies within this cloak, best I continue the mystery." She noticed his elegant bow and was a little embarrassed by the gesture, not being used to such gallantry.
"I'm Ariarh Kane. My friend's call me Ry. It's good to meet you." She extended her hand. Back on the ranch they were more used to shaking hands upon greeting than such elegant graces as bowing.
"And, this noisy fellow is Dior. He is cute to look at, to be sure, but his manners are a little ... underdeveloped as yet." Ry laughed, couldn't help herself, as Dior began preening under the attention.
You observe Dior interupts the "handshake" with a stern frown, as if trying to stare down at someone who would be "pawing" at his mistress (pawing at his mistress is HIS job!)... but if she allows it with any friendly tolerance, he will continue the stare, but nod sagely, as if you (Alaric) had passed some sort of test.
"So... did everyone here get a charter from Brevoy?" Leto looked around at the odd gathering. Ry, a pretty girl with a small griffin, Winter, another bastard with a smile almost as charming as his and... the thought trailed off as he saw a big, very ugly man with a staff walk in. "Wow... this post is getting quite the large amount of traffic today isn't it? Are you often this busy, Svetlana? Brett?" He tapped his hanbo against the ground idly, leaning back after finishing a bit of his meal. "Sit down Tabak, you're making everyone nervous." he said, slightly irritated at the giant looming around them. "The chairs, Leto. I am too large for one." Leto's grin faded a bit, he had forgotten how tough things were for Tabak sometimes. "Forgive me, friend, I hadn't meant to be offensive."
Walking into the large common room Leto smiles nervously at the people inside. "Um... hello all." He ducked his head and when Tabak ducks into the door he turns a bit, "And this is Tabak, my uh... guardian." The boy studies the other guests, eyes moving slightly as if waves moved in his huge blue irises, until the little head poked from the young woman's cloak. "Is that... is that a griffon?!?" Leto's thin face lit with wonder and he moved quickly to her. "Oh my god I've never seen a griffon... rather small isn't he? Look at his beak. I've heard a full grown one can tear a horse in half with one bi..." He trails off as he realizes that, unintentionally in his excitement, he had moved his head much closer to the young woman's chest than he had intended to. His face blushing a bright and painful red he stumbled back. "Oh, I am so sorry, I never meant to... I mean.... I just..." He stopped, obviously composing himself. "Breathe young one." Tabak's thunderous voice said. Biting his lip, young Leto smiled at the woman, charm back on in full force, "I'm so sorry milady. I was so entranced by your griffin I hadn't noticed how inappropriate I had been." He extended one slender, pale hand. "My name is Letohandrines North milady, and you are?" He smiled, obviously recovering from his faux pas.
"'Tis alright, Letohandrines North. No harm done." Ariarh gave the young man a friendly smile to put him at complete ease. His swirling eyes fascinated her. She extended her hand and shook it directly. She turned to his guardian Tabak and did the same. She was a little intimidated by the man but appreciated the air of strength and authority he exuded. "My name is Ariarh Kane. I am called Ry by some."
"Dior is indeed a griffon and a hatchling to boot -- thus his small stature. And yes, be careful of that beak. He does like to bite."
A large man wearing a long black coat with a wide brimmed hat that covers his face in shadow comes in from the rain. The only other possessions are a small pack slung across his back and a long sturdy staff being used as a walking stick. As he lifts his head the rain beads off the had and run down his back. As the light crosses his face the light red thick skin and slightly bestial features immediately identify his orcish heritage. Despite the bestial features his face is a mask of serene calm.
Thank you for your hospitality. I took the liberty of putting my horse in your stable. I'll gladly compensate you for whatever oats he eats.
With that the large orc helps himself to a modest plate of food and a tankard of water and sits to have his meal.
Alaric chuckles at the griffin and says. "It seems you have quite the little protector there my lady."
Alaric chuckles at the griffin and says. "It seems you have quite the little protector there my lady."
Alaric chuckles at the griffin and says. "It seems you have quite the little protector there my lady."
"Yes, I do believe my father meant him as such. Dior was a gift from him and the little fellow has become quite..um..attached to me ever since."
"I'm not complaining, though", Ry hurriedly added.
"My griffon is waiting to see how I take to you. I'm not quite sure as yet", and with that she smiled at Alaric, a mixture of shy and bold.
"And, to answer your previous question, I was born and raised in the River Kingdom of Artume."
"Where do you herald from, Alaric?"
"This “Master’s Power”, or MP, is equal to your total Willpower."
Did you mean my total wisdom or my will save?
"1 Point – Great Leap: As a free action you may declare you wish to use your “great leap”. This allows you make a Jump check with your use Intelligence modifier instead of Strength. Further, you gain a +5 to all Jump checks when using “Great Leap”. This effect lasts 1 Round."
Is this stackable? spending 2 pts = +10 to jump, etc?
"That is quite a gift from your father. He must care about you very much. I am from Irondale in the far north of Brevoy. It is a small mining town several hundred miles north of Skywatch. His answering grin has nothing shy about it and is all bold.
Gideon sits quietly and eats his meal, but he does listen.
"By the gods... goblin-folk..." I gasp with a shock at the towering half-orc.
"No, beg pardon... you ain't more goblin then I am DWARF! Still and all, took me back a bit," I add with a bit of bluster.
"But hey," I go on, sidling my way through the crowd "you look like a lad who's parched and could use stiff drink or three, AND a piece of something hot? Don't have much to offer in the way of bread, only made up a bit of chicken soup, hot enough on this cold day. But at the least I can offer you a drink to ammend my words," I say offering a large tankard of steaming cider to the person at the door.
"Brett's my name, and I'm right pleased to meet you; to meet you all. I myself have a coppy of the Charter as are...is... (hell, I don't know the right word, I'M no grammarian) WE all sure to have, no doubt, no doubt. Now, you're just arrived, but as the fine lady was saying here," I say with a broad gesture to a smiling woman, looking somewhat uncomfortable with the big crowd in her small home "there's been trouble afoot, bad trouble to boot, and bandits and that! Now, if I was to run things I'd no doubt skewer them all and spit them on their own gizzards. But then, I'm not too keen on if that be a good move, or not. If those cutpurses have been out purse cutting, why... there's bound to be a pile of purses AND more laying in a pile somewhere. I say we find the pile and give to them that lost it there's back. But this room be crowded. Anyone for a bit of a good pipe and good talk? Why... let me know, we can split things up or get more comfortable and talk business. Or just enjoy the food and company till the morrow, and then talk business more. I'm all for either, just tell me what you'd like," I add with a grin.
"That is quite a gift from your father. He must care about you very much. I am from Irondale in the far north of Brevoy. It is a small mining town several hundred miles north of Skywatch. His answering grin has nothing shy about it and is all bold.
"Yes, he cares about me very much, as does my mother. I suppose that comes with being their only child."
His bold smile made her very pale skin flush ever so slightly, though Ariarh tried stemming her reaction to it. She was used to an assortment of men who came and went from her father's ranch and their flagrant stares and comments. She didn't mind Alaric's so much but he sure was pushing her comfort levels. But, she was much more at ease now with the Brett's good, hearty food in her stomach and the cool water easing between her lips.
"I have heard tales of Brevoy from my father and his ranch hands but I must admit I have not had the pleasure of travelling through Irondale. What was it like growing up there?"
** spoiler omitted **
It is your total Willpower modifier, not Wisdom Modifier. As such, it will gradually raise in power as your Willpower .
The Jump thing does not stack, because it only lasts one round, and you can only use it once a round.
no worries....
Gideon sits quietly and eats his meal, but he does listen.
1d20+5
Your chewing is all you can hear while you listen... :)
I thank you for your kindness, Brett. I know my appearance can be startling at first. It's refreshing to meet someone who does not immediately judge me by It. If you're of a mind for a good smoke and wise council I'd be more than happy to oblidge.
"Well I can say your parents care about you a great deal more than mine care about me. You are very lucky in that respect. Brevoy is an interesting country. Lots of intrigue and the game of houses is played quite fervently there. Backstabbing and double-dealing and the like. Oh don't get me wrong, it is all very civilized, but it is something I do not wish to repeat here. I am a bastard and as such I am afforded very little respect in Brevic circles, no matter whom my father is." Seeing that he is making her a bit uncomfortable, Alaric eases back and takes the pressure off. No need scaring her away that quickly. He thinks to himself.
Sorry I was late.
I had a birth day this weekend so I have been doing the whole family and friend thing. I will get things done right quick was out geocaching all day with friends.
I have not seen anything that would make me think Smendor was cut for being late.
I like to create full stander character sheets and print it into a digital document so I will email you a PDF version soon.
Okay, good news everybody!
Heard a lot of good postings so far. I know not everyone could make it tonight, but there is always tomorrow.
So far, I have got a positive response from Skype/IM for specific large scale comments from nearly all of you. If you haven't chimed in yet, please let me know.
Next, I have recieved an email adress from all of you except Tessara, but I know she is busy, so no rush. But when I get the email I will be sending you a copy of some information (i.e. maps, and some other basic details).
I am also hoping to get forwared to me a complete "Character sheet". The sorting back and forth through the windows makes it difficutl for me to track things.
One last request: for any dice roll, 1st, let me know specifically in the post, what you are rolling for (e.g. "I am rolling a Perception check").
2nd, don't worry about making rolls unless I ask you for them. Unless you need to make a roll, there really isn't a reason. And you may run into bad luck and roll a 2, when your normal listening ears would have picked up free information anyway... :)
Okay, again, great jobs everyone, I hope to see more of your stuff soon.
Leto turned as he realized the staff man's race. "A half-orc? Yet another wonder." He muttered into his soup. "I've never seen so many new things in one day." He offered some bread to Tabak, who, as always, declined. "Is it true what they say about your kind?" Leto asks, obviously not realizing his discourtesy. "I've heard some of you are as powerful as Tabak." Leto's eyes rolled in waves as he swung them around the new group. "Irondale? That's rather like the Eyrie isn't it? I was born around there, stayed there my whole life before coming here. Mountainous, cold, dreadful at times. But it's home." Leto idly tapped his hanbo on the floor. "And what's this talk of bandits? I had heard some were here, and it is in the charter to deal with them I suppose. Tabak will do most of my heavy lifting, but I'm afraid I have to be near him or he gets so weak as to be useless in a scuffle. Terrible, true, but I have a bit of arcane skill, just keep the brutes from me and I can help out." The boy smiled and pulled the moisture from his hair with a wave of his arm, pulling it in small drops and then making them spin. "Making others more powerful is my specialty, but I haven't learned much." He spun the drops faster and faster until he lost one, then another. They splashed across the room, wetting a couple people. [b]"Oh... uh... ooops."{/b] The boy said with a huge embarrassed grin.
Smendor keeps putting one foot over the next as he pushes on into the darkness allowing his mind to reminisce the better times back home in Brunderton. He was happy resting just looking over his documents only but a fort night ago, but now he was sloshing his way down a path that had nearly vanished in the damp terrain. Knowing this region had great potential kept him moving. Smendor had been pushing his pace for several hours now attempting to make up lost time, but his legs though strong simply did not have the stride to cover such a great distance quickly.
About the time he made the crest of a slow rolling ridge he stops and gives out a deep grunt of relief. That there must be my destination, and if it not be I think we will just stay there anyway. He bends his back in a way to give his stiff body a good stretch. What do ya say to that idea? Do ya think it be time for a good long rest? He is speaking to his feet.
Smendor is cold, unhappy, and downright miserable, but he takes a few minutes to clean his boots, face, hands, and generally tidy up his overall appearance.
He makes his way down to the gate and gives it a firm pounding with the flat part of his closed fist. He belts out a deep call to those that might hear him speak, Might there be a place of rest inside your walls. This weather is no place for a traveler. He waits near to the gate and gives his attire a few more tugs in an ineffectually attempt to improve his looks.
"Is it true what they say about your kind?" Leto asks, obviously not realizing his discourtesy. "I've heard some of you are as powerful as Tabak."
Having heard far more discourteous words, Gideon question doesn't show any signs of anger in his response or his body language.
Some half Orc's are quite powerful, just as some humans are.
"Well I can say your parents care about you a great deal more than mine care about me. You are very lucky in that respect. Brevoy is an interesting country. Lots of intrigue and the game of houses is played quite fervently there. Backstabbing and double-dealing and the like. Oh don't get me wrong, it is all very civilized, but it is something I do not wish to repeat here. I am a bastard and as such I am afforded very little respect in Brevic circles, no matter whom my father is." Seeing that he is making her a bit uncomfortable, Alaric eases back and takes the pressure off. No need scaring her away that quickly. He thinks to himself.
"Well I can say your parents care about you a great deal more than mine care about me. You are very lucky in that respect. Brevoy is an interesting country. Lots of intrigue and the game of houses is played quite fervently there. Backstabbing and double-dealing and the like. Oh don't get me wrong, it is all very civilized, but it is something I do not wish to repeat here. I am a bastard and as such I am afforded very little respect in Brevic circles, no matter whom my father is." Seeing that he is making her a bit uncomfortable, Alaric eases back and takes the pressure off. No need scaring her away that quickly. He thinks to himself.
Ariarh looked at Alaric and wanted to say something in response to his situation with his parents and upbringing. She knew she had been luckier than most with her parents.
"Intrigue, backstabbing and double-dealing on a regular basis can be rather tiring, I assume."
She knew she had to start with that lest she began trying to nurture the man, this stranger just met. But hurt was hurt no matter the age or the time elapsed between emotional wounds.
Ariarh noticed Alaric ease away from her and she respected him for giving her space. All the new people in the room were a little overwhelming but interesting -- they all had fascinating stories and complicated lives. Ry was determined to lower her guard a little and be sociable.
Dior focused on Alaric, again. The griffon was staring at the man and then back at Ariarh. He began purring as if content in his assessments, Ariarh thought. He was a strange little fellow but she believed a good gauge of character. She would be wise to take more notice of that in the future.
Turning to Alaric, Ry smiles warmly. "Here's to greater respect."
"Well met, well met," cries the halfling, an ostentatious apron on his slim, though tall (for a halfling) frame.
"I'll say first, my name is Brett, and you two must be recently arrived for the same reason we've already come! Well then," he says, and without missing a beat tosses a small bit of jerky to Dior, who snaps it quickly, then turns away, as if aware of the fact that he was no longer being imperious, and resumes his stare.
"We've got steamed cider by the tankard, and I've taken the libery to cook up some grub. Handy as a cook, you might say, and if you don't say, then I WILL say," he adds with a grin and matter-of-fact voice.
"Nothing TOO fancy, I made some potato dumplings, fried in butter and onioins; shredded some greens with a little bit of butter too, AND a bit of dill and pepper (dill's a gods-send, I can tell you THAT). There's a pot of hot soup on the pot, and I just got a loaf of black bread from the oven (added a touch of Thyme and Rosemary, good for the bones that is, with a bit of bread), and these fine folk have seen fit to offer a bit of cream AND honey to go with the bread. That and a good pipe for those who want... why, what more could anyone ask for on a day like this? Safe, dry, warm, well-fed... Say," he says if the idea just occurred to him "where IS that cheeky Oleg fellow? Thought he'd at least want to taste his own vitles, never mind that I did the cooking," the halfling added.
I offer a grin all around, and my hand to the new-commers.
"You're a mighty fine cook, Mister Brett. A full stomach has certainly brought life back to this cold, weary body of mine. I thank you and so does Dior here." And with that, Ariarh nodded and smiled at the halfling. The griffon continued looking on quietly.
Ariarh looked at Alaric and wanted to say something in response to his situation with his parents and upbringing. She knew she had been luckier than most with her parents.
"Intrigue, backstabbing and double-dealing on a regular basis can be rather tiring, I assume."
She knew she had to start with that lest she began trying to nurture the man, this stranger just met. But hurt was hurt no matter the age or the time elapsed between emotional wounds.
Ariarh noticed Alaric ease away from her and she respected him for giving her space. All the new people in the room were a little overwhelming but interesting -- they all had fascinating stories and complicated lives. Ry was determined to lower her guard a little and be sociable.
Dior focused on Alaric, again. The griffon was staring at the man and then back at Ariarh. He began purring as if content in his assessments, Ariarh thought. He was a strange little fellow but she believed a good gauge of character. She would be wise to take more notice of that in the future.
Turning to Alaric, Ry smiles warmly. "Here's to greater respect."
"To greater respect!" Alaric says with another grin. "Now, it's been a long journey. Perhaps we should hear a bit more from Oleg and Svetlana about these bandits that have been troubling them. How many are there? When do they usually come? Things like that."
The text boxes can get lengthy and sometimes it's difficult to know if someone is speaking, thinking, or just adding fluff dialogue. The below suggestions worked really well with other games to help relay character information.
bolded text means character is speaking
italiced means character thoughts
Everything else is narration
In fitting with my character concept I was planning on taking a two level dip into monk (weapon adept archetype). Just FYI, unless that's an issue for some unforeseen reason.
** spoiler omitted **
Sounds good. I'll employ those from this point onward.
"Greater respect!" Leto downs half his glass at the toast, head a bit low. "And High Above..." he whispers down into his own drink, thinking on his family. Such odd fellows. And all seem to be rather open. Nothing like speaking to the nobles, each one of them looks like a noble but acts like the staff. Except that one, his eyes focused on the half-orc But what can you expect but discourtesy, he is a half-orc. Perhaps he'll get over it. Leto rubbed the bright blue Orlovsky house mark on his temple as he pondered, hoping no one hear knew enough to recognize it.
"Greater respect!" Leto downs half his glass at the toast, head a bit low. "And High Above..." he whispers down into his own drink, thinking on his family. Such odd fellows. And all seem to be rather open. Nothing like speaking to the nobles, each one of them looks like a noble but acts like the staff. Except that one, his eyes focused on the half-orc But what can you expect but discourtesy, he is a half-orc. Perhaps he'll get over it. Leto rubbed the bright blue Orlovsky house mark on his temple as he pondered, hoping no one hear knew enough to recognize it.
An obviously genuine smile at the nature of the sentiment crosses Gideon's face as he too raises his cup,
With a confident baritone that carries across the room Gideon saysTo respect.
As Gideon lowers his cup he continues to engage the strangers in conversation. The genuine smile stays on his face as he enjoys the engaging conversation.
Turning to Oleg and his wife,
I too would be interested in hearing more of these bandits. Your hospitality has been most gracious and kind. I would Ike to return the favor if it is within my power.
Tessara walked in the rain, her hair tied back in a pony tail that hung down to her shoulders. She had just gotten it cut a few months ago, as she got used to keeping it short while in battle. She felt at ease to be out of the large city and she relaxed a little as she walked along the muddy path, her feet wrapped in loose leather.
As she arrived at the palisade she looked a little uneasy at it. She had been around such machines before, in her battles with Treerazors men, but now they brought back memories that she was trying to forget. I wonder how long its been since its been used, it looks in pretty rough shape she thought as she stopped momentarily to observe the large Ballista.
Once she arrived at the large gate, she gave it a few firm pushes but she couldn't budge the door. Then she noticed the long cord that reaches a bell and, feeling a little sheepish for not noticing it sooner, reaches up and pulls the cord. Once she is let in she follows the man inside the house and finds the party there. "Oh sorry I'm late" She says to everyone in the room and then quickly takes a seat. She blushes ever so slightly but remains silent watching everyone.
I seemed to have missed why all of our characters choose to make their way to this particular place. Is it coincidence or did Somethng else bring us here?
** spoiler omitted **
** spoiler omitted **
I forgot part of this last time.
The text boxes can get lengthy and sometimes it's difficult to know if someone is speaking, thinking, or just adding fluff dialogue. The below suggestions worked really well with other games to help relay character information.
bolded text means character is speaking
italiced means character thoughts
ooc
Everything else is narration
** spoiler omitted **
"That's... quite all right..." Leto is entranced when he sees the new woman, her hair pulled back and her pointed ears and large, elven eyes visible.
Leto snapped out of his thoughts, snapping his jaw closed as he did. Don't just sit there like some country yokel, idiot. She's probably seen a thousand and one half-elves, so don't act like such an idiot. Noticing a lack of readily available chairs, does this inn ever get this much business at once? Leto gallantly, and a bit awkwardly, stands and motions toward his. "Have my seat, milady. My name is Leto and this is Tabak." He motions to the giant, who appears to roll his eyes and nods politely. "It's nice to be out of the rain and there's food here and if you'd like I could dry you off with a bit of magic." Leto's eyes look as though the waves have been kicked into stormy tempests now and his face was lit in a huge grin between his blushing cheeks.
Tabak took the boy aside a moment, "Give the lady her space, little one. No one likes to be badgered." His ponderous voice still fairly hearable even at whispering volume. The young summoner calmed himself a bit, breathing deeply. "I'm sorry, old friend, but when we spoke of elves no one told me their women were so beautiful." His eyes peeked under his friends arm to continue studying the new girl as he played with his scarf.
Tessara looks at the young man as he offers her his seat. "Thank you" she says as she sits. "I won't be needing anything else, I am more than able to take care of my self" she doesn't mean to reject him, its just she's not used to dealing with half breeds. I will never understand what a proud elf could see in such...uncivilized creatures as these humans are. I wonder who the monster was in that case, the mother or the father. Probably the mother because no self respecting elvish woman would lower herself to be with a human. And I've heard and seen many human women who are willing to sleep with pretty much anything. she thought as the young man went off with his giant friend. She then looked at the others around the table and smiled. The Name's Tessara, nice to meet you all. She then looks around the table for what food their serving and soon fills her plate. great...more human dishes...I don't know of my delicate stomach can handle such fair but I did say I wanted to experience different cultures.
If Leto returns she will ask him about his background and more interestingly to her, his parents.
"Oh... my uh... parents. Well, my father was an elf, I don't know him at all, he was just travelling through. My mother... well... she was married.... and..." Leto trails off, obviously very embarrassed to discuss it. "I was more raised by... the others of my village. North is a bastard name, given to children around the Eyrie." His eyes turn downcast, but then perk up quickly. "But... I'm sure you don't want to hear about my boring village life. How about you? A traveller? A warrior?" He stops, his head tilted in thought. "Do elves let thier women fight? I never knew that. I thought women couldn't fight as well as men. Did you fight demons? I've heard there are demons in a land near the elves." The boys grin is infectious as he questions everything. "Is it true elves don't need to sleep? I've sometimes had odd dreams or gone a day or two without sleep, so I thought maybe those rumors were true. I'm... not very familiar with my uh... exotic side." His large blue eyes seem to have forgotten the others for the moment. The poor boy only has eyes for Tessara.
The Name's Tessara, nice to meet you all.
A large half orc wearing a long black coat sits at a table near the others. Leaning against the wall next to him is a simple, yet well made, quarter staff and a wide brimmed black hat hangs across the back of his chair. Though he's aware that elves in particular tend to look down on him for his heritage he makes effort to be friendly.
Perhaps this one will be different, he thinks to himself.
In a pleasant and measured baritone with a genuine smile,
Pleasure to meet you. I am Gideon. He says in common followed by
Welcome, friend. I'm glad your journey has brought you here safely
He speaks with a slight accent, but his grammar and dialect are perfect. It's difficult for non-elves to master some of the subtler nuances of the language, but still quite good.
Tessara's eyes go wide as she hears of the elven man that slept with a married human woman. Anger boils inside of her for a moment but she keeps it under control. His sudden barrage of questions takes her by surprise and she looks at him, not really sure where to start. His sexist comments irritate her a little but being what he is she knows better than to hold it against him. She had grown used to the males opinion of women in these parts but they do grow tiresome and she sometimes longed to teach some of the men what she can do in battle.
"Yes I was a warrior for many years, and have fought some demons and other evil things that still haunt the forests of Kyonin. Being that your father didn't teach you the proper ways of your heritage I doubt you've heard of Treerazor but he was an awful awful being who's minions still linger and need defeating. Many men and women fight to defeat them back home and I was honored to be counted amongst them for the time that I was allowed to fight. You are the first forlorn I have met that has this much interest in his heritage, if you want I can teach you more but now really isn't the proper time. We have been summoned here for a reason, though if we end up traveling together I'm sure we will have plenty of time to set your might straight." With that she gives Leto a small smile and turns her attention to the meal in front of her and starts picking at it with her fork.
I will never understand the human compunction to seer the flesh of their food...and look at all this meat and wine, there isn't a fruit or vegatable in site to balance it out. Its a wonder humans survive with out many health problems eating like this... her mind continues to run as she picks at her meal.
When Gideon addresses her she jumps a little at his appearance, still not used to half orcs, even after all these years. When he speaks to her in almost perfect elvish she looks a little perplexed but responds back in elvish Well met Gideon. Yes I have made it here safely and with out much problem. For your heritage you seem to be far more intelligent, as you have mastered a very complex language. I am impressed. Tell me what am I eating, I'm not sure what it is?
Smendor keeps putting one foot over the next as he pushes on into the darkness allowing his mind to reminisce the better times back home in Brunderton. He was happy resting just looking over his documents only but a fort night ago, but now he was sloshing his way down a path that had nearly vanished in the damp terrain. Knowing this region had great potential kept him moving. Smendor had been pushing his pace for several hours now attempting to make up lost time, but his legs though strong simply did not have the stride to cover such a great distance quickly.
About the time he made the crest of a slow rolling ridge he stops and gives out a deep grunt of relief. That there must be my destination, and if it not be I think we will just stay there anyway. He bends his back in a way to give his stiff body a good stretch. What do ya say to that idea? Do ya think it be time for a good long rest? He is speaking to his feet.
Smendor is cold, unhappy, and downright miserable, but he takes a few minutes to clean his boots, face, hands, and generally tidy up his overall appearance.
He makes his way down to the gate and gives it a firm pounding with the flat part of his closed fist. He belts out a deep call to those that might hear him speak, Might there be a place of rest inside your walls. This weather is no place for a traveler. He waits near to the gate and gives his attire a few more tugs in an ineffectually attempt to improve his looks.
"BY the gods! ANOTHER one!" you hear from just inside the gate, and it swings open even as you tug your beard. There you see a mud-splattered, rain-soaked, drunk-sotted, and very cantankerous man with a bulding stomach and ruddy cheeks.
"I'm sure to catch my death, not that YOU'LL care!" he begins.
"Hello, I'm..." you start with attempt at courtesy
"Oh, who cares anyway," he barks with a rude grunt, interupting you. "Come in, come in, I'm sick of this gods-damned rained, and gods-damned weather, and the gods-damned interuptions!" he adds with a almost angry rant.
"Go back there to the cheer, and the light, and the fire, and the company, and the song, and the food, and the lovely lasses, and the good times inside, don't mind ME... I only OWN the place," he adds with wave of his hand. "Maybe I should just sleep in the stable, that way, if any MORE vagabounds show up at my door I can be ready to welcome them into my house."
"Yes, but..." you start...
"Oh no, you go in, don't mind ME sir, no!" he mutters, and you make your way inside to see a motley colletion of guests gathered in a small house, eating, and drinking and generally living up to the gate-keeper's actions (he didn't even mention his name, now that you think about it).
Well, shouldering your way, adjust your beard properly you enter to hear the conversation.
-- By the way, I will forward you on your signature item soon...
North is a bastard name, given to children around the Eyrie."
Alaric jumps at the mention of the boys name. So, north is the bastard name around the Eyrie? My name is Alaric Winter, Winter being the bastard name around Skywatch and Irondale, where I'm from.
Alaric switches his gaze to the elf woman, he gives a short bow and smiles prettily at her and speaks in perfect elven. Your presence graces us, my lady." He gives her another smile and sits back down with Ry.
So what does little, Dior was it? What does the little fellow like to eat? I have heard that griffins have a taste for horseflesh.
--- quick re-cap to catch people up to speed ---
So you know, Brett is my "DM PC", who will journey with you to sort of help out. Okay, recap...
"Well met, well met," cries the halfling, an ostentatious apron on his slim, though tall (for a halfling) frame.
"I'll say now my name is Brett, and you all must be recently arrived for the same reason we've already come! Well then," he says, and without missing a beat tosses a small bit of jerky to Dior, who snaps it quickly, then turns away, as if aware of the fact that he was no longer being imperious, and resumes his stare.
"We've got steamed cider by the tankard, and I've taken the liberty to cook up some grub. Handy as a cook, you might say, and if you don't say, then I WILL say," he adds with a grin and matter-of-fact voice.
"Nothing TOO fancy, I made some potato dumplings, fried in butter and onioins; shredded some greens with a little bit of butter too, AND a bit of dill and pepper (dill's a gods-send, I can tell you THAT). There's a pot of hot soup on the fire, and I just got a loaf of black bread from the oven (added a touch of Thyme and Rosemary, good for the bones that is, with a bit of bread), and these fine folk have seen fit to offer a bit of cream AND honey to go with the bread. That and a good pipe for those who want... why, what more could anyone ask for on a day like this? Safe, dry, warm, well-fed... Say," he says if the idea just occurred to him "where IS that cheeky Oleg fellow? Thought he'd at least want to taste his own vitles, never mind that I did the cooking," the halfling added.
I offer a grin all around, and my hand to the new-commers.
"I'm right pleased to meet you; to meet you all. I myself have a coppy of the Charter as are...is... (hell, I don't know the right word, I'M no grammarian) WE all sure to have, no doubt, no doubt. Now, you're just arrived, but as the fine lady was saying here," I say with a broad gesture to a smiling woman (Svetlana, Oleg's wife), looking somewhat uncomfortable with the big crowd in her small home "there's been trouble afoot, bad trouble to boot, and bandits and that! Now, if I was to run things I'd no doubt skewer them all and spit them on their own gizzards. But then, I'm not too keen on if that be a good move, or not. If those cutpurses have been out purse cutting, why... there's bound to be a pile of purses AND more laying in a pile somewhere. I say we find the pile and give to them that lost it there's back. But this room be crowded. Anyone for a bit of a good pipe and good talk? Why... let me know, we can split things up or get more comfortable and talk business. Or just enjoy the food and company till the morrow, and then talk business more. I'm all for either, just tell me what you'd like," I say glancing over the room.
"Hmm... If I ain't mistaken, then I would guess that all of us are here now as we've got the Charter from them that gave it to us. And why? Clearly to use it to stop bandits from hurting good an honest folk. Now you seem like all good lads and lasses; but I myself don't stand for, or sit by (for that matter) anyone who does wrong to innocent folk. It's a late bit, and o'l Oleg is pitching a fit we're camped in his house, no doubt about it. I say we tuck in, finish the grub, then maybe spread out and grab a bunk, as there's bunks to grab across the way. Then maybe, when the time be right for breakfest, we can wake up and talk business propper. Perhaps then this rain will have stopped. What do you say, eh?"
Despite what time you arrived at the trading post, the hour is now indeed late, for your conversation and meal has taken a long time to digest (both word and meal).
I have taken the liberty forward the map to everyone to examine, you should find that in your email soon. Also, if you woulnd't mind (if you haven't done it) please forward your finished character sheets to me soon.
Smendor, please hold off on that (sending your character), as I will be giving you gear that will no doubt modify your sheet soon. Thanks! iF you haven't heard from me soon, check your spam just in case. My email is Dain120475@aol.com
The Name's Tessara, nice to meet you all.
Ariarh stood back somewhat and listened to conversations around her. The elven female was a surprising but welcomed addition. She wanted to introduce herself but did not want to interrupt the conversations that were already underway between Tessara and two of the males in the room.
In a moment of a lull, Ariarh approached the beautiful lady who was now perplexedly looking down at the contents of her plate.
"Hello. I wanted to introduce myself. I'm Ariarh." And with that, turned her eyes directly to the elven lady and politely waited.
As Ariarh approached her Tessara's face lightened up a little. oh good another female for these men to ogle, I don't have to worry about being taken advantage of she thought as Ariarh approached. Nice to meet you she says warmly and then looks the girl over. hmm...you look human but there is something different...care to enlighten me?
As the hafling chimes in Tessara looks at him and smiles. Good I don't have to finish this bowl of god awful potato dumplings...I can feel the butter going to my hips already she thought. Sleep sounds good, as it has been a long journey and I'm dieing to get out of this armor. She then turns and says good night to her new companions and walks over to Leto Care to continue our lessons on elvish culture in my room? Being forlorn you have a lot to learn. she then looks sternly and knows that he is part human, she leans in a little closer and puts a hand on his shoulder and just to be clear we'd be talking only, try to make a move and you won't have the ability to have kids, I know how you human males work. I'm only offering because you have some elf in you.