Welcome in
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The group arrived in Stormdam two days ago, and made their way to an inn (paid for by Sir Cassius) named the Magenta Troll. A blank wooden sign hangs out the door, and every few seconds, the name of the inn seems to write itself out in a beautiful neon purple cursive. A picture of a troll, magenta colored, being touched by a grinning gnome is painted onto the entirety of the front door.
The pre wedding festivities are to begin in an hour and a half, at the church of Sune, located only 15 minutes away from the inn.
Your 3 rooms are all on the second floor, with the first floor being the common room and tavern area. Two columns of three tables each dominate the majority of the room, each connect to the next length wise. Long benches occupy both sides of each table, with much if the space being occupied, though there is room for new members scattered all about the tables here and there. The sounds of conversation create a loud, but pleasant atmosphere in the room. Upon each table sits two platters of mixed meats and loaves of bread, both in quickly diminishing supply.
A small bar is tucked away in a corner in front of a kitchen door, with a small woman, her hair a magenta color, standing on a stool behind it, talking excitedly with a handling seated opposite her at the bar.
What is everyone up to this fine morn?
A slender tiefling wearing fine clothes sits in a comfortable armchair in the corner sipping tea. You recognize your friend, Sevren, who helped with the undead in Lothairsfall. Apparently he got those stains he complained about so much out of his robes as soon as he got back to his preferred laundryman in Stormdam. He is currently chatting with a wealthy merchant near him and, judging by the laughter coming from the portly fellow, is making friends and influencing people.
Merek has joined Sevren and the wealthy merchant in the sitting room, drinking his own cup of tea.
Ugh. he says, his accent thick - the "common" tongue is not so common where he is from. The voewls are different. I don't know how you people drink this. It's barely flavored water! What I wouldn't do for a decent cup of coffee. Each word is pronounced as if it were a sentence of its own; a clear definitive stop can be heard after each.
He looks down at the cup and conjurs up a bit of magic, changing the flavor and the color of the hot liquid. He takes a sip and frowns. Better, but I can never quite get the consistency right.
Looking up at Sevren, Merek says, I see you got your robe cleaned. I told you, you needn't have done that; it was a waste of money. A proper master of magic, such as myself, could've had that stain removed in minutes! Look at my own thawb - it is immaculate, he says, gesturing to his own clothing.
The tiefling bows at his comrade and smiles smoothly. "One does not always desire the strongest flavor, Merek. And while you do possess a unique and impressive variety of magical talent, it could never feel and look as fine as what Bartholomew's washing." He smooths his robes affectionately for a moment. Then a disgusted look crosses his face. "Especially when dealing with fluids from an undead."
What awaits you when you arrive is a completely different Cade from the man you remember in the situation with the Vampire spawn. There, he was aggressive, dangerous and quiet; here...
Cade had arrived early and had spent majority of the morning drinking and telling rather baudy stories at a table near Sevren's. When the others entered, Cade would nod to each in turn and then go back to telling whatever tale of lost love (or lust) that he happened to be telling at the time.
His stories were good natured, and just as many ended with him in a silly or compromising situation as in success. Those sitting at his table seemed to enjoy his stories, and more than one person at the table shared their own.
You almost do not recognize Thovin Fireforge from the first time that you met him. His burnt orange beard is oiled and braided. He wears ceremonial vestments over his brightly polished scale mail. In the center of his chest on top of his pure white heavy leather apron that bears dwarven runes and decorations honoring Tharmekhûl, Thovin wears his brightly polished holy amulet of Tharmekhûl, Moradin's loyal assistant. He also wears pure white heavy leather gauntlets thick enough with which to forge. His veteran leather weapon’s harness has been scrubbed clean and carries his favorite warhammer, trusty handaxe, and shield on his back with the holy emblem of a flaming warhammer.
His appearance is a far cry from the haunted and obsessed dwarf wearing dirty, disheveled traveler's gear covering grimy scale mail and severely scarred body who you met a couple weeks ago, when he convinced you to defeat a vampire spawn attempting to revive her vampire master in the town of Lothairsfall, because you saw in his flint fray eyes that he had faced unimaginable horror and is no stranger to darkness.
You remember him being much more comfortable hunting the vampire spawn than he currently does now.
The tiefling smiles somewhat smugly at Thovln's obvious discomfort in fine dress. "My dear fellow, you look quite fine indeed! Don't you feel wonderful to be looking your best on this auspicious day?"
Thovin slowly turns his haunted gaze toward the tiefling, "Thank you Sevren. These are the official vestments of my clergy. This is only the third time that I've had occasion to wear them. Fortunately, two of those times have been to celebrate weddings."
"Today the shoe appears to be on the other foot certainly. I do remember you being quite uncomfortable with the grime of the recent hunt. Now, here we are at a wealthy, civilized celebration where you appear as comfortable as a fish in water."
Please try not to relish in the discomfort in others, remains unsaid. He wasn't that kind of priest to preach to others with words. He would show them with actions.
"Gentlemen!" His voice boomed through the room.
Leonidas came walking in, and hugged Thovin. Completely ignorant of Thovin's discomfort he gave his Dwarven Brother a kiss on the cheek before turning his attention to Sevren for a handshake.
"Devilishly handsome, as always." He joked, as he effortlessly moved on to Merek. "My friend! So good to see you. Sipping your bitter brew again, I see. You want a lemon with that?" His jabs were all good natured, and it was clear Leon was in a good mood.
Leon also greeted the merchant amongst them. "Sandor! Always a pleasure."
Leon picked a glass of champagne from a waitor that floated by with a tray attached and held it up to Cade, gave him a cheeky wink and took a sip.
He was dressed to the nine, flamboyant but tasteful. Dwarven ornamental armour, offset by a broken white garb highlighted with light blue embroidery. A ceremonial knife hung from a sash.
"It's looking to be a fine day indeed."
Walking down the stairs buttoning a shoulder tassel loop on his military uniform. Adorned with his rank and medals of war, Jaylen is very striking. He straightens his jacket once he reaches the bottom of the stairs and readjusts the rapier hanging from an over the shoulder leather baldric.
Walking over to his fellow honorees ”Gentlemen.” He nods to each who look up. ”What is for breakfast this morning?”
Sevren nods graciously at Thovin's words. "Indeed I was and I am thoroughly pleased to be back in civilization, as you say."
He winces somewhat as Leon's booming voice breaks all attempts at civilized conversation. He takes the Dwarf's hand in greeting but winces again at the overly-enthusiastic grip and the pun on his heritage. "Indeed, Leon. It is a excellent day for enjoying and celebrating the finer things in life. It would seem your wardrobe, at least, received this message. Speaking of which"
He turns to the stairs "My, my! Officer Greystone certainly knows how to wear his dress uniform! I think you'll enjoy the porridge and tea for breakfast but do be careful not to ruin that exquisite design! I must have a word with the army's tailor! I am absolutely composed of questions!"
The tiefling smiles in a very self-satisfied manner. There was nothing like ceremonial public occasions such as this and their corresponding fineries for elevating the soul.
Leon! It is good to see you. Come, join us in conversation, Merek says with a smile on his face.
You know, Sevren, Merek segues, Leon is what brought me to these lands. If it wasn't for him and his father, I likely would have not left the desert sands of my home.
Jaylen smirks slightly as he watches his companions interactions. ”An unlikely group of heroes, but heroes none the less.” after Merek’s introduction of Severen ”It was good that he did. It was good in fact, that ALL of you found yourselves in Lothairsfall. Your help was invaluable.”
Thovin is suitably discomfited by his brother dwarf's greeting.
And, he nods in reply to Sevren heading to one of the tables to break his fast with some bread and meat.
While eating, he surveys the room with haunted eyes looking for telltale signs of evil lurking within the civilization that they believe so secure.
Sevren nods gravely, his façade of poise and diplomacy dropping momentarily at the mention of how they were brought to Lothairsfall. "Yes, a good thing indeed. An abominable threat to law and order that was." Then his mask resumes its place and he's all charm again. He smiles and nods in the direction of the halfling's table. "Cade tells quite the tales."
"...And that's when I realized that it was her sister's room!" Cade pauses for a moment, and the table bursts out in laughter.
"Alright my friends, I see my crew has arrived, so I should go and make nice with them. See you folks at the festivities." as he passed one of the bustling barmaids, he hops up and pinches her rear.
"Evening folks. How's by you? I gotta say, it's good to see you guys with the dirt cleaned off."
The merchant smiles pleasantly as Sevren works his various charms, intrigued by his stories and wealthy appearance. He greets Leon with a firm handshake, Always good to see that charming face around Leon! Your mother's wonderful looks surely, cause they definitely ain't your father's! He laughs out, throwing a wink in along with it before sitting down again.
Jaylen's words of gratitude seem to spark a moment of recognition in his eyes though, and his face turns to one of amazement. Lothairsfall huh?...Wait, you are the ones! You killed that vile...that thing! He looks around at the group as he speaks again. I had family down there, and I am glad to meet those who were quite possibly their saviors. You must be here as Sir Cassius's special guests for the day, yes?
Cade hears only the last bit of the conversation as he approaches, the waitress giving out a slight shriek before noticing who it was, her frown turning into a seductive smile, throwing a small wave before moving off towards the kitchen.
Sevren bows graciously toward the approaching halfling. "Good to see you as well on this fine day." He knew better than to underestimate the halfling based on his small size and playful demeanor. He had seen the small man stand alone before a foe 5 times his size and land a killing blow to the heart. He turns back to the merchant "Yes indeed. Sir Cassius has generously invited us as his guests for this marvelous occasion. Are you looking forward to the occasion as well? What do you think will be the most interesting part of the ceremony?"
He looks to his comrades as well. "And what parts of the day interest you all the most? For my part, the formal, ceremonial invocation of the power of the church and the state at the same time to seal the marriage is an incredibly unique moment."
"And truly a fine day to be seen well it is." said Cade as he winked at the lass, then turned back and said "I love weddings. Especially in small towns. All of the young women get so....festive."
Cade took a drink from his mug, then sat it down and said "Lothairsfall was a heck of a thing. I'm glad we were all able to make it out in one piece."
Merek sips his faux coffee and listens.
Jaylen looks around seeing the ease at which everyone else with the dwarf as an exception were preparing for the ceremony. "It seems most of you at least are used to this sort of thing. Any idea or tips of what to expect?"
Merek snorts. Not a chance. I don't know anything about your customs.
The merchant directs his attention back to Sevren While I do love the symbolism and display of power in a wedding, I Usually prefer what comes before and after the ceremony. I always find the party to be the most entertaining part, though I may just like the easy deals that seem to come off of its inebriated attendees. he lets out another heavy laugh. Ah well, it was fine to meet you wonderful folks, but I must be off. I am sure that they will be wondering where I have gone. The wine is not going to open itself now is it? See you in a while now. he stands, tossing a few silver on to the bar before heading out the door.
It has gotten noticeably quieter in the inn, as many folks have departed. Inside, you can begin to hear the sounds of music, very faint through the walls, that are coming from somewhere in the city.
You people are good to go! bursts out the gnome behind the bar. The lucky man has your meals and rooms covered for today. And by the sounds of it, they seem to have gotten things going a little quicker than expected this morning. Don't want to miss all of the fun!
"See you at the festivities." Leon replied as the man walked away.
He adjusted his sash and patted his gut. "I'm here for the food, and dance. And I don't mean to miss a second of it!"
He padded Jaylen on his back. "Just do as I do. You'll be more than fine." He reassured with a sly smile.
"Come, lets support our friend as he embarks on a fate darker than anything Lothairsfall had to offer!"
Ah, such generosity. Merek sets down his cup and stands up, using a bit of magic to brush away any spills or crumbs off his clothing.
Walking outside, Merek says, Come, Catha. We have a wedding to attend.
A small shurb outside the inn then stands up and follows the foreigner.
Sevren nods and smiles, smoothing his robes as he stands up. "Yes. Let us enjoy the festivities. I will retrieve a few things from my room." Sevren returns shortly, carrying a small satchel.
Jaylen looks back at the gnome and gives a polite smile. Turning back when he is pat on the shoulder. Nodding at Leon, he says “I’ll do my best to keep up.“
The party leaves the inn, and heads through the city of Stormdam. A clear spring day, the sun is shining high up in the sky, warm but not scorching.
The sounds of music get louder as the party progresses closer to the Church of Sune, a low hum fills your ears, the sound of many voices mashed together and moved to the back if your senses. You all emerge into a very large courtyard, filled with hundreds of people,who spread into the connecting streets slightly as well. The church of Sune sits at the far side of the courtyard, rising high above the masses. The stone building seems very elegant, its tall windows made of beautiful stained glass. On the right of the door, the image a blonde haired woman, beautiful and healthy, with her arm stretched out towards the tall doors. On the left is a young man dressed in nice clothes, with his hand outstretched towards the left, the two seeming to reach for the other. On the bell tower, a circular glass window depicts the face of a beautiful woman with red hair flowing out from her, the Symbol of Sune for anyone with any sort of knowledge of the gods.
In the center of the square, a brightly colored pole has been erected, the area around it filled with people laughing as they dance, trading partners constantly. A small band of minstrels on a nearby stage provides the music, keeping it lively and jaunty. Small tents and stalls are set up around the edges of the plaza, merchants calling out their wares to those who will listen. A much larger tent, long and rectangular and without sides. Long tables sit inside if it, with people coming and going. It seems that a temporary bar has been constructed under the cover, and it is quite busy. A single table has been taken over by 3 sets of men, surrounded by many onlookers. They seem to be trying to prove their strength, arm wrestling back and forth, trading coins now and then.
A small wooden enclosure has also been created, with what looks to be padding inside of it acting as the floor. A young man with a pen in hand is yelling out for volunteers to participate in something, though you aren't close enough to hear his words. The last thing that catches your eye is a constructed course, where you see people firing bows, smashing watermelons, and swinging at a large man on a small balance beam, like a battle on a log bridge. You hear laughter come from the crowd as the large man pushes the commoner off of the beam. A large sign labelled "Knight's Challenge" sits at the start of the course.
Sevren turns to the strongest of his friends. He'd seen what this Dwarf's muscles could achieve before. "Care to have a go at one of these titanic champions, my friend?" He lays a hand on Leon's shoulder and speaks a word.
This is pleasant, Merek remarks, as he pulls out a smoking pipe and starts to pack it.
With a bit of magic, he lights the tabacco and starts to puff out little smoke animals, controlling the smoke with a mix of Prestidigitation and Minor Illusion. He has a small smoke rabbit chase some passing children and he smiles at their laughter.
Turning to Leon and Sevren, Merek watches in interest seeing if Leon will accept the challenge.
"First things first, gentlemen, we all agree to not step in each other's way here. That means no fighting over the same woman; as you can see, there are plenty of fish in this lovely sea. Secondly, we make a pact to help each other. Questions?"
After waiting for questions to be asked, Cade will take his leave of the others than go and listen to the young man looking for volunteers to see what his pitch is.
Thovin shrugs to Cade and meanders toward the tent with the bar.
The dwarf with haunted eyes and a scarred body searches for the people not enjoying themselves or creatures lurking on the fringes. His life experience tells him that this wedding would be a perfect time to attack.
Sevren chuckles lightly at Cade's proposal. "Fair enough, good sir. I doubt I will find myself in competition with you." With a wink, the tiefling looks for the wives of important politicians to charm. Oh sweet information, thou charms me more than beauty.
Jaylen chuckles at Cade’s remark. He’s beginning to loosen up with the jubilant atmosphere. This is much less pomp and more party than he was expecting. He follows Cade thinking he had some kind of specific help in mind that was needed. ”If he needs a wingman, my uniform is usually all it takes. “ he thinks to himself.
Cade takes off towards the wooden fenced in area, Jaylen easily catching up a moment later to accompany his companion. After weaving your way through the crowd, you manage to get into earshot of the young man. ...a test of might everyone! Come now, and show off your martial prowess in honor of the good knight! Swordsmen and brawlers alike will have their chance here. Do I have any takers? Any daring young men care to show off their skill at arms for those watching, maybe even for their one fair maiden? He calls out to the crowd, and motions with his arm towards three beautiful young women only a few yards away from him, seeming to judge any who sign up, and giggling a bit as he waves towards them. A few men do step up and place their names on a roster that he has on hand.
Thovin manages to move towards the crowded tent, many people noticing the holy symbols and vestments and parting slightly before him. As he scans the crowded masses under the tent, none seem to have much malicious intent for those at the wedding. Everyone is quite enjoying their time drinking and playing.
Failing to find anybody of import, Sevren decides to follow his other Dwarven friend, Thovin, and see what comes of it.
Merek doesn't get involved with any of the contests or challenges, but rather enjoys just observing everyone else having fun. This is all new and strange to him, but he enjoys seeing the delight and joy in everyone else.
Whenever a group of children get too close he uses his magic to bring about a bit more joy. He creates bunnies out of smoke from his pipe, or conjures a patch of flowers to grow from the ground, or creates a small whirlwind of leaves around two lovebird teens.
He creates illusions of deer eating the grass and hopping away when someone gets too close, only to have it dissipate into butterflies as it leaps into the air, and the butterflies dissipate into strands of colors which eventually turn blue and blend in with the sky.
At one point, he creates a hopscotch pattern in the dirt. At another, a gust of wind brushes through a Knight's long hair to give him "hero wind." And another, he shapes the water into rain drops and freezes them into snow to create a minitaure slurry that melts when it touches the ground.
Cade doesn't even break stride, walking right up onto the stage.
"So, what sort of duel we talking about here? We using training blades?"
Jaylen watches Cade amused , not yet interested in testing the skills that he is most confident in. He does scan the crowd nearby and the other contestants to gauge size, skill, and how they handle themselves physically to see who the most interesting challengers will be.