This is an invite only pbp.
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I am ready.
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Ready
Jubilation fills the evening air in the normally staid town of Trunau, for it is the twelfth birthday of the Chief Defender’s youngest daughter, Ruby, and the townsfolk have been preparing all day for the ceremony and festivities to follow. A throng of spectators has amassed at the town Commons; the buzz of the crowd subsides as the weathered town leader, Halgra of the Blackened Blades, takes the stage and begins to speak.
Thank you all for joining us this night. I take immense pride in my responsibility as Chief Defender, especially when it comes to the honor of the hopeknife ceremony. It is always a great privilege to bequeath Trunauan youths their hopeknives as they come of age. Halgra stops speaking long enough to open an ornamental case and retrieve a slender, ornately decorated dagger hanging from a silver chain. But tonight is a special occasion, for the recipient of this hopeknife is none other than my youngest daughter. Once again, Halgra pauses, but this time she turns to talk to the child beside her.
Ruby, by the traditions of our town, you have come of age. This hopeknife represents your responsibilities as an adult and defender of Trunau. You must be willing to use it on yourself, your fellow Trunauans, and your family—even me, should it come to that. It will be a far quicker death than that which the orcs will offer, and providing it is your duty. Do you swear to guard Trunau from all comers, and to use your hopeknife only for its intended purpose? Ruby—dusky skinned, black haired, and painfully shy—nods her head in response to her mother’s question.
If the orcs come, and there is no other option, this is where you cut—here, here, and here. Halgra demonstrates which arteries to sever while Ruby watches. When she is finished, Halgra sheathes the hopeknife and places the necklace around Ruby’s neck before turning back to address the crowd.
Tonight, Ruby becomes a full member of our community! Let us welcome her, and celebrate her passage into adulthood! Trunau forever! The crowd echoes Halgra’s last words in unison, signaling the end of the ceremony.
Upon completion of the ceremony the games and feasting start.
This is what most of the town has been looking forward to; many items of food are available and carnival type games abound. From Axe throwing to wall climbing to ring toss to eating competitions, there are many activities to entertain young and old. The sounds of music playing, people singing and feet stomping echo around the Commons, proving that the people of Trunau know to take their fun when they can as the threat of the orcs is always present.
After most of the town has had a chance to partake in the feasting and some of the games the main attraction is announced.
Rodrik Grath, well-respected and well–liked, takes the stage. With a long piercing whistle he commands the attention of the crowd.
As is tradition, the newest member of the defenders of Trunau will now prove her might. He nods to his brother Kurst who motions to the 5 other members of the militia flanking him that their time has come. They all mount the stage to take up positions behind Rodrik on one end of a long rope, opposite the wide-eyed Ruby.
As they theatrically flex their muscles and spit on their hands in preparation for the coming test a voice from the crowd, obviously on cue, protests. 7 against one, that hardly seems fair, no matter how obviously superior the defender is! The rest of the crowd joins in with faux outrage, ”rigged!” “unfair!” “cowards!”
With a faux grimace Rodrik concedes, fine then, pick your champions!
Ruby looks like a trapped rabbit and the added attention makes her seem to shrink. Her eyes dart anxiously around the crowd until a small commotion grabs her attention. A blonde head is making its way through the crowd and Bronwynn Mythanthar pushes her way to the front; a relieved smile appears on Ruby’s face. She waves her friend up and whispers, Who else should I choose?
Raevon cheers along with the crowd in response to Halgra's welcome before joining and mingling in the crowd afterwards, taking in the comradery and food but avoiding the games of physical skill.
As Rodrik takes the stage and sets up the contest, the wizardly elf watches with pride as his niece pushes her way to the forefront to help her dear friend Ruby. Catching Bronwynn's eye he smiles warmly at her.
Two days ago a pasty grey skinned half-orc with pale lifeless grey eyes walked through the gates of Trunau. Clad in his usual dirt encrusted garb, first impressions usually label this half-orc as a homeless vagrant, but without the accompanying smell. The dirty grey cloak, drab clothes and second hand armor certainly serve to enforce the impression, but they also combine to give the illusion of a large moving rock. But to his friends, he is simply known as Ish.
An equally dirt encrusted sack was slung over Ish's back. Filled with scrap metal and other salvaged items reclaimed from the Cinderlands, Ish had sold these to Sara Morninghawk down at the Clamor yesterday and then spent the rest of his time preparing for Ruby's coming of age ceremony. As one of Halgra's many children (Ish was adopted by Halgra years ago), Ish has known Ruby since she was a baby. Standing in amongst the crowd, Ish rests a pale coarse hand upon his own hopeknife in memory of the time he'd once stood upon that stage. Smiling at the theatrics of the day, Ish politely makes his way towards the stage announcing loud enough for the crowd to hear, I will stand with you sister! He gives Ruby a wink and a polite nod to Bronwynn before taking up his best forboding posture to stare down Rodrik and his men.
Bronwynn clambers easily up onto the stage and gives Ruby a hug before turning to face the gathered crowd. Scanning the many faces she can't help but spot one of the largest half-orcs living in Trunau. Towering above those around him, Bronwynn points at Ugula and exclaims with a big grin, We choose him!
She gives Ishan a nod in return. Ish!
Ruby smiles gratefully at her 'brother' and looks at Ugula partly with trepidation and partly relieved that he is on her side.
Ugula lets out a deep grunt and moves forward, the crowd giving way easily before him. Striding up to the stage, he gives Bronwynn a pat on the back and nods at Ruby before taking up his position as anchor at the end of the rope.
Looking over and surveying the opposition, he glares at them and bares his tusks. This should be fun. Knowing the competition is meant to be in good humor, he can't help but try to intimidate the opponents - if nothing more than a for a little fun.
Don't take it easy on them Ish!
Continuing his stare down Ish murmurs from the side of his mouth, Ug, you're the brawn here. He lets a sly smile escape at the idea of Rodrik's men sizing up Ugula's impressive stature then offers a bit of strategy for Ruby whispering I suggest letting Ugula anchor the rope, but we'll follow your lead Ruby. Give us our positions.
Even with Ugula's impressive bulk anchoring the rope, Ruby's side is down by a few bodies. Ruby looks back and forth from her comrades to the audience, her eyes silently beseeching someone else to join but her voice unable to bring itself to make the request.
From the east edge of the commons Bhox appears, a crude stuffed fabric sheep tucked under his arm. As he climbs the stairs to the stage he holds out the sheep for Ruby, a large grin on his face. I won this in the axe toss, and I'll gladly trade it for a chance to embarrass Rodrik. May I join?
Ruby accepts the sheep with apparent glee and motions him to a space on the rope.
Nils arrives early for the festivities. He strategically places himself at one of the long tables where he can most easily see the stage as well as enjoy copious amounts of the food and ale.
Sitting quietly through the speeches Nils roars and bangs his fists upon the table afterwards with the rest of the crowd. He then barks out an order for drinks and begins to enjoy the festivities.
Seeing Ruby line up against Roderick and the others Nils joins in the protests and laughter. Cowards!
Slamming his mug on the table, ale sloshing on his neighbors. Nils rises to his feet and pushes his way to the stage. I will stand with you Ruby! You will need someone to keep these other oafs in a straight line! He roars, his broad grin as he looks towards the others.
Do you think that's enough? Bronwynn asks giving Ruby an encouraging look.
Having seen Bronnwynn roll an Auroch over for skinning, Ish knows how strong the half-elf is. Not breaking his stare-down Ish sportively adds, I was willing to take them with just you and Ug.
Ruby looks at the bulk that is lined up behind her and for the first time a slight look of confidence crosses her face. Even with one less person she nods her head to Bronwynn and the others, I think we are ready. She calls to Rodrik.
Rodrik smiles eagerly. This night is for Ruby and the outcome is in no doubt, but he relishes the chance for a good competition!
All right then, on the count of three. One...Two... Three!
Round 1
Opposing Checks
Rodrik and crew were expecting a good bit of competition from Ruby's side but at the count of three the first pull came so quickly and powerfully that Rodrik was pulled right up to the line! It was only a bit of quick footwork and a bit of a regrip that kept him upright.
A grin of respect crosses his face as the buckle down.
Round 2
Opposing Checks
They seem to regroup and their stances seem solid but the end comes quickly. Ruby's team sets their feet and suddenly jerks the rope, hard. Rodrik's boys come flying over the line, nearly crashing into Ruby.
Once they regain their feet handshakes are exchanged all around and Rodrik and the rest of the opposing team lift Ruby into the air to parade the champion around.
The townsfolk are impressed at the prowess shown by Ruby's team and although she receives the bulk of the congratulations many people approach the others to congratulate them on their performance.
Rodrik himself approaches the group with his brother in tow.
That was pretty impressive gentlemen, and lady. He says with a florid bow in Bronwynn's direction. Rodrik is a confident and honest man, a well-liked figure around town. Although an excellent swordsman he is also has a talent for writing, having produced several plays and poems. In spite of his many gifts he is humble and never comes across as a braggart.
I hope you've been enjoying the festivities. I will ask you to leave some prizes for us lesser skilled, he says with a wink. Although I might be able to hold my own in one of the eating contests. He pats his obviously well toned stomach with a grin.
Now I know that some of you have graced us with you presence on patrol, but after this display I expect to see all of you. Maybe bright and early tomorrow morning, so I can sleep in! He laughs and elbows Kurst. Don't you think, we could use a late morning to nurse our bruises and egos!
Kurst smiles good-naturedly but doesn't join into the conversation unless directly addressed.
Even though Raevon and Bronwynn have mentioned their patrols, Ish had never taken an interest in such things before. Truthfully, he'd felt inadequate and would politely change the subject to his friend's inquiries should the topic come up. What could his meager talents bring compared to Raevon's magic or Bronwynn's eye? Ish grew up hiding, avoiding trouble, not fighting. Tonight's 'victory' however has filled Ish with confidence - the praises don't hurt either. Perhaps he really does have something to offer along side his friends.
Ish's grey complexion turns a shade darker as he humbly accepts Rodrik's invitation, I'd be honored to assist sir. Then sheepishly rubbing the back of his head with a calloused hand quietly asks, Ummm, what should I bring?
The rest of the evening is a more somber affair. Money has always been tight for Ish and spending frivolously isn't in the cards even on the best of days. Ish mingles with the crowd, purchasing a stiff drink to gently nurse then exchanging pleasantries with Jesse and Sara Morninghawk all the while pricing out odd items he might need in his head. As the night wears on, the pressure of participating in tomorrow's patrol begins to weigh on Ish's conscience. Seeking Raevon and Bronwynn, Ish subtly petitions them for advice.
Rodrik laughs gently at Ishan's inquiry. Only joking good fellow. While we would welcome your assistance let those already scheduled for tomorrow morning be the ones to moderate their fun tonight. With a pat on the shoulder he says in a more normal tone. If you truly wish to aid us then just present yourself at Longhouse whenever you are able and we can add you to the roster.
A cold flash followed quickly by a tightening in Ish's belly signals yet one more disappointment for him to add to his life's story. The half-orc is ready to accept defeat and disappear into a dark corner for the rest of the night when Rodrik's reassuring hand brings Ish back to reality. Thank you. Nodding his understanding Ish adds, I will do that.
Raevon approached the contestants to offer his congratulations to both the victors and the "vanquished", saving his most effusive praise for young Ruby. As magnificent display of teamwork as I have ever seen! Bravo Ruby!
Bronwynn elicited a smile and respectful nod from her proud uncle. Well done young lady!
Speaking of the patrols Rodrik, anything new or interesting reported this past week?
In response to Ish's inquiry, Raevon replies, You should absolutely join the patrols. Your skills would come in quite handy.
Nils shakes hands with the other competitors and congratulates them on a good contest. He then extends his calloused hand to congratulate Ruby on her coming of age. Congratulations young one!
Now who wants to join me in a mug of celebratory ale? He says to no one in particular not looking at the others before stomping off to one of the tables laden with food.
With a reassuring final pat on Ishan's shoulder Rodrik addresses Raevon's question.
Nothing really out of the ordinary. The odd orc, but there are always seems to be one skulking around, that's why we must be ever vigilant. He says this with a bit of a sigh as he looks around at the festival whose purpose is to both highlight and distract from the fact the town is surrounded by enemies. He seems to realize he is getting maudlin and continues.
There is still that annoying graffiti though. Poor Omast is practically in a rage, he laughs. Nothing seems to get rid of it and he's been scrubbing like a fiend! I suggest you don't bring it up around him unless you want to become deaf in at least one of your ears.
With a glance around the area he exclaims, Enough shop talk, It's time to make some merry! Enjoy yourselves.
He clasps shoulders all around and makes his way into the crowd followed by Kurst who just nods his goodbyes.
Ish's confidence returns with Raevon's words and the half-orc beams at the prospect.
The graffiti is news to Ish. His last walkabout had kept him away for nearly two months and he doesn't recall seeing vandalism when he left. Turning to those gathered, When did this start? Thinking it is probably best to consult the one person in Trunau most familiar with the graffiti Ish adds, I think I shall pay Omast a visit, he'll likely know all there is about it. With a polite smile to excuse himself he walks off like he has a purpose in search of the patrol sergeant.
Once the competition is won, Ugula gives the opposition a well-meant tusky grin and gives Rodrik a friendly pat on the back.
These patrols pay anything? Eager at the prospect of killing orcs, he figures there is no harm in asking about coin. Regardless of the answer he has already made up his mind to take Rodrik up on his offer and sign up the next day.
Business completed, he answers Nils Aye! Let's celebrate Ruby by drinking her weight in ale! He then proceeds to attempt to do just that, drinking and eating the night away. Luckily he is a happy, content, and easily approachable fellow when laden with alcohol. He would never turn away a friendly arm wrestle and he would promptly whollop anybody stupid enough to antagonize him but for the benefit of himself and those around him, he does not go looking for a fight needlessly.
Rodrik answers the question but you get the impression he does not want to be dragged into a long conversation about military matters. The militia gets meals before and after patrol. If you prove yourself in the militia you may get recruited to the guard itself when openings become available.
Ish's confidence returns with Raevon's words and the half-orc beams at the prospect.
The graffiti is news to Ish. His last walkabout had kept him away for nearly two months and he doesn't recall seeing vandalism when he left. Turning to those gathered, When did this start? Thinking it is probably best to consult the one person in Trunau most familiar with the graffiti Ish adds, I think I shall pay Omast a visit, he'll likely know all there is about it. With a polite smile to excuse himself he walks off like he has a purpose in search of the patrol sergeant.
After a bit of searching you find Omast nursing a drink at one of the benches. Unusually, the waft of alcohol is missing from Omast's general vicinity.
Ish greets Omast in the usual Trunau fashion and sits down with his drink opposite the sergeant. Rodrik tells me someone has been spreading graffiti all over Trunau. I don't remember seeing any the last time I was in town. Do you have any ideas of who is doing this?
Anybody who has been in Trunau recently would likely have noticed white swords and the odd white cross painted on various areas throughout the town.
Normally Omast is not so outspoken in his dislike of half-orcs but it is obvious his duties have made him particularly grumpy.
Initially, Ishan is taken aback by Omast's outburst and tries not to react. Still the comment stings. Taking a deep breath Ish blinks slowly to calm himself replying in measured words, I trust you don't see all of us that way Sergeant Omast.
Rather than let the moment spoil moods, Ish stares into his drink, idly turning his cup on the table as he presses the topic, I plan to sign up for the patrols tomorrow morning. If Rodrik can spare me, I'm willing to help you look into this. Perhaps I can discover something you have not. Ish looks Omast in the eye with his last remark, implying Omast's view of half-orcs has probably tainted his reputation keeping tongues still. Does there seem to be a pattern in their location?
Ah yes, the graffiti. I have noticed it now that you mention it. I hadn't paid it much attention to be honest. Silently, Raevon muses on what it might mean.
As everyone starts to drift off after the competition, Raevon offers to buy Ruby and Bronwynn a drink of their choosing. Come young ones, tell me a story.
Ruby is shy, even in the presence of her friend's uncle, and only responds to direct remarks. Even though she is technically an adult she knows her mother would disapprove of her drinking alcohol and politely accepts a ginger beer.
Bronwynn accepts a ginger beer as well then turns to Ruby to chat So anything exciting happening with you?