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The small man kicks out at Eisen, attempting to hit his legs out from under him. Its a low blow but he ducks around keeping one hand on his face, however he slips on a gobbet of blood.
The big broken nosed man grabs for Aerik round the neck and twists him down, or at least that is the planned move.
Once he has got a good hold on Aerik, he aims the two of them at the wooden wall, with a pat on the Bearborn's head for luck.
Karquer reacts predictably and aims an arrowing hand at Vic's eyes, fingers like points, attempting to blind the man.
There is a laugh or two from the teamsters at the way things are going for Aerik.
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Two of the teamsters move round the edge of the room towards Sadarr. but they end up one behind the other in front of him with no chance to quite attack yet. One of the other's throws his half barrel seat at the nearest target which is Eisen.
The last teamster moves round to help Kraquer, Vic can see the faint glint of metal as he swings a fist at the rogue. There is a fair amount of weight behind the blow.
Caught off guard by the grapple, Aerik swings ineffectually at the broken-nosed man holding him.
"Oof. I was hoping your breath might have improved after the I knocked out a couple of teeth last time, but I see it's only made it easier for the filth to get free," he says.
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Eisen lifts his shield from his chair and continues to assault the shorter mans nose, smashing the steel into his face.
Eisen steps behind the wounded fellow using him as cover from the teamsters. "Whoever just threw that chair can expect more of the same!" he shouts.
Vic again attacks Kraquer with the hilt of his dagger.
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Aerik feels the grip tighter in a very unfriendly manner. His nose very close to the man's armpit. Its fifteen feet to the wall behind Sadarr and looks very solid.
Eisen finishes off the small man. He drops the empty jug with a loud smash, and crumples into a heap behind the shield. Bubbles pop from his nose as he forgets why he started all this.
Again the hilt hits his neck a glancing blow and the man winces a little. He turns in towards the man.
"Here,here". "Your battle is not mine". "I fear that you should reconsider your rash action, as they might reap you circumstances that you find rather...well...uncomfortable".
Athletics / Strength
But finds the crowded confines of the bar, and his surprise at being attacked unprovoked catch him off guard.
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Round Two, Init 19
The teamster before Sadarr hears the words but doesn't listen to the threat well. His blood is up and the man behind eggs him on, "go on Harten, get that lizard!"
Kraquer shouts across too, "Harten, Ledont, a drink if you down him, cleaning toilets if you don't! Now its your turn, Mr Knife." He sweeps up the wooden tray sending the clay cups clattering to the floor into pieces. Then he slashes it across Vic's throat in a tight circle, spinning as he does.
He gets all laboured and looks to be blowing hard, however now the tray acts as a feeble shield.
DM Rolls
Aerik stands firm and grips old broken nose's leg, stopping him from running them head first into a wall.
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Round Two, Init 18
Enough is enough, Sand slides out of his chair quietly and steps behind the teamster and Kraquer, attacking Vic. He shoves the man hard into Kraquer while he isn't looking his way.
DM Rolls
But the man is veru solid, he grins at the noble elf.
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Round Two, Init 9
The teamsters before Sadarr charge straight on at him. Not so much grabbing as pushing as a pair straight ahead,almost because the second one is forcing the first onwards. But not then helping much once Sadarr is contacted.
Borne of desperation, the teamster pushing Sadarr so hard that he falls over in a gangling heap. More in surprise than anything.
Vic again attacks Kraquer, but this time, he senses a weak spot, beyond the make-shift shield, and he swings for the spot just between the shoulder and neck.
Eisen straps on his shield and makes his way to the group of Teamsters tossing things around.
"So who's first?" he taunts.
Content to stay in close range, Aerik ignores the hold Broken-Nose has on his neck and focuses on tenderizing the man's kidneys with a series of quick punches.
[ooc]for 5 damage[/dice]
Roaring in outrage, and embarrassment. What have I done to offend these people. I was merely standing here. Sadarr rises to his hands and knees, then roars his most fierce roar...and is as surprised as his assaulter to see a billowing cloud of frigid air escape his mouth and cover them.
CON Save DC10 for half damage.
"I...What was that...I'm sorry...I didn't mean to".
Sadarr rises to his feet after his display.
Intimidation
Intimidation A
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Round Two, Init 3
Both men feel the cold billow over them, draining all the energy and adrenalin in an instant. Their skin goes pale, eyebrows frost and breath becomes visible as they view the dragonborn in a new light. No placatory words change the fear in their eyes.
DM Only
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Round Three
Eisen's words taunt the teamster facing him enough. He freezes in the moment of picking another barrel seat, and slowly straightens with his hands open and away from his sides.
The teamster before Vic stops a large haymaker, now that Kraquer is down and the last lingering clouds of icy mist dissipate around his frightened friends. Both have crusted bleeding lips and shake terribly so he starts over to them with all thoughts of fighting over.
That leaves the broken nose warrior who just took a gut shot from Aerik.
With a roar at his downed friend and Aerik's goading pop in the hard stomach, he charges the wall. Aerik's head takes the full impact of the fifteen feet run then the man smashes a fist into his face. But his aim is way off.
Vic spits the blood from his mouth on the unconscious body of Kraquer after taking successive blows.He wipes the sleave of his black shirt across his mouth.He then glances over at Aerik and moves in that direction, when he notices the effects of the Dragon-Like Humanoid.
"Nice trick there, big fella. You have a name? I am Vic Lofliss. Thanks for the help, by the way."
He focuses his attention back on Aerik.
"You got this one, Aerik, or should I lend a hand?"
With an audible sigh, Isandril walks almost casually towards the man with the broken nose currently fighting the one apparently called Aerik. Standing behind him, the elf quickly and deftly slides his right arm under the brawler's right armpit and bends it, right hand meeting the left and grasping it tightly. And then he pulls, using both his own weight and whatever leverage his maneuver has gained him to pull the broken-nosed man away from his opponent. Or at the very least that is the idea.
"It'll take more than that to crack my skull," Aerik says, shaking plaster from his hair as he spins and smashes his fist into Broken-Nose's face. "Noses, on the other hand, tend to be more delicate."
"Why are you still here? Get out!" Eisen shouts at the group of teamsters.
Sadarr peers around the room, and sees the impact that his unexpected attack had on the others. He smiles his "dragon smile" that if you're so inclined could be interpreted as a barring of teeth.
He is unsure whether to approach the affected teamsters, or simply hold his ground...They fear me. Will they attack or run?
His thoughts are interrupted by the approach and speech of an elven blooded man. One of the participants of the brawl.
"Greetings". "I am called Sadarr". "I apologize if I was the cause of this impromptu melee". "I am quite unfamiliar with the customs and social interactions of this area, and must have somehow offended these fine gentlemen".
"Well met Viclofflis". He then grasps the mans hand in his taloned one and shook it, as seemed to be the custom here.
The teamsters look undecided at Eisen, one definitely is ready to run. The pair who were "iced" are shaking uncontrollably and the one helping them is already rubbing their arms.
But then the young woman strides back into the room, pulling a large wig off. Her wide hips are gone, and a fair more shapely and graceful elven girl makes the entrance.
"Enough. You men, pick up the sergeant and leave. Let go of Farkanin, he is ugly but he works for Kraquer and is useful."
Vic
She is very attractive, has a natural grace and balance, which makes even sitting a pleasure to watch. She smooths her overly large dress and waits with a welcoming smile.
The surly innkeep returns and helps Kraquer out the back door, with the teamsters and big guy. All this takes time, and the elven woman waits, her eyes not missing much at all and weighing you all further. It is a little unnerving to see a child with such self possession.
Aerik grins widely as he rubs the knot forming on his skull.
"Well, tell ugly he can find me at the Behir and Beholder if he fancies another round of Kord's blessing. I'm happy to share the faith with all comers, but you'll have to buy a round of ale after the sermon - I've found it helps mightily with the bruises," he says, taking a seat before nonchalantly returning the elf girl's stare.
"So lass, have we passed your test? When do we get to meet the black bear?"
"Ha ha, of course you have, Aerik Bearborn. May I introduce all of you to Vic, Sadarr, Eisen, and Sand. I'll answer your other question later, you have my word. But the test was necessary to ensure that the rumours of your talents were not exaggerated. I am Pharris of the Highfolk, and I require a group of quick thinking and brave individuals to help with a serious matter for Greatwall."
She points out each to everyone and the innkeep brings in a bottle of elven wine, blue bottle with shining stars floating in each glassful. "Something to calm and enjoy whether or not you each decide to stay and hear my offer. This is Mistlefire. A rare woodland treasure."
"First perhaps a short introduction would be in order. Yes?"
Her eyes dance and white perfect teeth shine as she sips at the wine. There is almost a giggle as one finger chases a light round inside the glass while the maiden waits.
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Time passes, and then she adds, "good, its important to listen and gauge others in this case. Well I know each of you as much as anyone in the stronghold can. But you do not know each other much at all."
"For myself, I have been asked to find a group of individuals to perform an important service in the name of the King. Payment and favours to be extended to those that survive and are successful. My investigations led to each of you so you can think of me as an information factor. A merchant in well-made mortals."
"Please be so kind as to shed light on yourselves. Such a pretty turn of words." Pharris has the most beautiful green eyes, deep and vibrant in colour.
"There was a time when the skill of a man was earned through competition, not some unsightly bar room scuffle." Eisen says pushing away the elven liqueur.
The elvish woman's appearance did little to quench the paladin's agitated state of annoyance. He had put his barroom squabbles behind him and being used for the amusement of some elf did not sit well with Eisen.
Vic stands and walks to the center of the room, nonchalantly.
"Take it easy, Eisen...we have all been chosen for a reason. Personally, I am Vic Lofliss. While I may have a bit of a checkered past, it is more widely known that my business as a merchant caravan guard and guide has led me to these parts. I am all for the proliferation of coin, and these troubles that the beautiful Pharris has eluded to cannot be good for trade or the flow of such coin. I am willing to contribute my skills to the cause, so long as we are rewarded appropriately."
he ends his statement with a bow. Vic then nods, winks and smiles at Pharris. He is dressed in dark clothing and a hooded cloak, but one cannot help but notice the rapier, daggers and bow that he carries.
"Ah, lighten up boy. No one will tell if you crack a smile," Aerik says, helping himself to Eisen's wine. Downing the pricy vintage in one long gulp, he wipes his mouth noisily with the back if his hand.
"I'm Aerik, the Bear-Born and Kord-Sworn. I've not had much success spreading my father's faith, as of yet, but I've made a name among the Count's men on patrol. I suppose I've made a name for myself in the taverns, as well. But the gods surely made drink for drinking and fists for fisticuffs, don't you think?"
"I knew I liked you, Aerik...ha, ha, ha!"
Sadarr reluctantly joins the group at the table, but relaxes a bit when he sees that they are seriously curious about him.
"I am named Sadarr". "I serve the Keeper of Fate, and that service is what brings me to this place". "Perhaps it is at this moment that our webs interweave". "If it pleases you I will sit facing the wall so as to not inflict you all with my new-found curse...but be assured I am listening and will respond".
By now the innkeep has gone, the same with the sergeant and his men. Pharris takes another delicate sip of her Mistlefire, her interested eyes moving from one person to the next.
"I suppose the bar brawl seems a bit odd."
Pharris puts the glass aside and raises her graceful fingers. "But the sergeant and his troopers only know so much and this seemed a blunt but fast way to test your resolve." One finger is ticked off.
"And your ability to act quickly and without drawing too much attention by following instructions were largely followed. Unfortunately Sadarr's curse may have sent two men to the militia's infirmary so I will be going there next. Just to ensure the right rumours about you are spread." The second and third fingers go down.
"And you won. Winning matters." The small fist closes.
"By morning, this little altercation will sound like a small riot and that will serve to corroborate the mission I intend you to perform. Or the work of the Fatespinner," she adds with a nod to Sadarr's back.
The elf girl stops smiling and turns all businesslike in a heartbeat. "So the secret details require your understanding that you either sign up and help, or hear me out and decide to leave of your own volition, heading south. You cannot stay with what I am about to tell you. There are too many Dorakraa spies about."
"The third choice is that you walk out now and I will ensure that no ugly rumours follow. No harm, no repercussions. But where is the fun in that? So decide."
Isandril listens to the others introduce themselves, his eyes moving from person to person between sips of Mistlefire. The elfwine brings a smile to his lips, this particular luxury and taste one he has certainly missed during his time away from the Faerie Kingdom.
"My name is Isandril of House Velahrn," he says finally with a little bow of his head, "although some, either because of familiarity or because they find my name difficult to pronounce, call me Sand." He shrugs. "I will admit I am rather fond of the moniker. I hail from Enstad, the capital of Celene. And as for my skills? I am handy with a blade. Or two."
"As for what you speak of, Cousin," he says then, addressing the elfmaiden with a smile, the glass of elvish wine raised to his lips as he takes another small sip, "you may consider me at the very least intrigued. So I will not be going anywhere just yet."
"I am listening..."
"Who could leave when such a pretty maid is about to start spinning a tale?" Aerik says, looking around for more of the blue wine or some more traditionally-colored vintage.
"Well, good," finishes Pharris, sharing a look with Aerik that speaks of far more maturity than is right in a young maiden. Then it is gone and back to the matter in hand.
"As you aware, Iuz and his forces continue to pressure us, despite the peace agreement. This jeopardises Greatwall; the trade goods we rely on have been badly effected by humanoids, meaning that merchants are finding it unprofitable. Even our traditional trade partners in Willip refuse to take the risk.
"I need to prove to them that the trip can be made safely and profitably. This is where you come in.
"I wish you to escort a caravan of three merchant wagons to Willip and back. The caravan leaves tomorrow at dawn and must return as quickly as possible. The wagons carry traditional trade goods, to be exchanged for the urgent food and tools we will need to survive. Iuz's raids mean that a caravan without soldiery will attract less attention."
"Any questions so far?"
"Sounds like my last job. I assume that we can anticipate being attacked?"
"I'd expect so," Aerik says, responding to Vic's question. He tugs on one of the ragged braids in his beard absently. "But it might be we'd be facing less opposition if we were disguised as teamsters or run-of-the-mill guards, instead of flying the Count's colors and marching around like the sergeants like to do. I guess that's your plan, lady? Look weak, then trounce what little does come our way and get the caravan through?"
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"Your guess is probably true. Iuz has many agents in foreign lands. It is rumoured that one of the Lesser Boneheart priests operate in Furyondy now. They are few in number but each one works from the shadows using numerous tools. Trust may be a luxury as my master once said."
The elven girl coughs behind her hand politely and continues after another sip, "So use the old Grabford-Critwall-Willip trail to resupply the border posts and show those merchants in Willip that it can still be safely travelled. I understand that this will put you along the Veng river, a stone's throw from the lands of Iuz. Fear not - border patrols guard the river banks from incursions.
"For your heroic service to Greatwall, you each receive 500 gold coins. For now I have 3 bags of 250 gold for expenses along the journey. but remember as Aerik suggested, your best defense is a low profile. So what do you say?"
Vic's eyes glint at the proferred gold and the promise of more to come. The danger is simply an afterthought.
This is easier than stealing...
"I am certainly on board. Who is the merchant in charge of the caravan leaving tomorrow, and where do we find him? I would prefer to be ready to leave early."
Sadarr speaks over his shoulder.
"It seems that I have worn out my welcome here". "My experience tells me that people will still talk". "And I am all for keeping a low profile, though that is difficult in my circumstances". "Still I have nowhere else to go, and fate seems to spin me in this direction".
"To top it all off", Sadarr says finally standing and turning to face the others. "Iuz is no friend of Istus". "I am in".
"Aye, I'll go. Sounds like entirely too much fun to miss, and you'll need someone to look after your souls along the way," Aerik says, smiling broadly. "And maybe the taverns in Willip will have some ale stronger than the colored water Jerrid's been serving at the Behir. Not to mention, lady, I don't suppose you were planning a bottle or two of this blue stuff along to keep us warm on our journey?"
With a shrug Eisen accepts the job. "Hmm. I suppose I wouldn't mind getting away from this grungy place. Problem is you don't prove anything by operating this way. Even if we make it this time the spies you're so worried about will just wise up and get the next one."
"Certainly," Isandril says as he finishes his drink, accepting Pharris' offer of a job of sorts. "If for no other reason than it is bound to be an interesting change of pace. As much as this town has grown on me for the past year, it can get... tedious on occasion," he adds with a smile and a shrug.