"Why not wait until everybody is down before we decide what we will do? I have not been to a gladiatorial event or participated in such an event, but during these were you in charge of others, or just yourself? A man who knows no fear, does not fear death and a man that does not fear death can easily put others in danger without realising it. As for wronging me, you have not done so, but I have never before seen someone laugh at a fight while others have been hurt unnecessarily and the fact you are such a man scares me."
We only await Ulrik. This is why I am discussing things now.
As Vi takes another mouthful of his breakfast, he speaks again.
I understand the fear of others, and those who I have lead have survived the arena. Those who knew better perished. However, when fighting for a crowd, it is often the crowd who decides on who wins and who loses. Some of the very men I trained had been made to fight against me, and in the arena it's do or die.
I tried to not grow close to those around me, in fear of being made to kill those who I could have possibly befriended, had this life been different. I know you probably won't understand, but when your life is on the line, you have to be selfish. Men died by my hand and had they bested me, I would have died.
Speaking with truth and passion, but slight sadness, Vi continues.
In the arena we all wanted to walk away as free men, but that wasn't a choice we had. Instead, we had to fight for our freedom and those who couldn't or refused perished.
Raising an eyebrow; The evil doer is not I, but those around me who saw fit to decide who lives and who dies each day. The only way I could be here today was to please that very crowd who killed all those who I had trained, by pitting them against me to test the might of I, Vironus Antilles. It's a harsh blood sport, and I have my fair share of scars as proof of my victories.
In light of things, all I ask is that you trust me on this decision to split up, and if it doesn't work out, don't listen to what I have to say in future.
Rogar looks startled and uncomfortable when Ariri is unexpectedly placed in his lap. After a minute, however, he relaxes and begins to stroke the sleeping otter's fur. He says nothing while River and Vi talk.
After a while lou comes out of the kitchen with a several plates of a home cooked meal, some Miso soup, some eggs with pork, and other fine foods he was able to rustle up in the kitchen
well I hope you guys are hungry I found all sorts of interesting stuff in there.
As he sets the dishes on the table he can almost feel the weighty discussion being had. what, did I miss something?
Turning to Lou, Vironus pauses conversation with River.
Morning friend. I suggested that if we're to put an end to this curse sooner rather than later, we should split up to get the job done.
Marcus would like to explore this town further for clues, so I suggested we split up, as from the message the gem conveyed yesterday, the Villa is the most important place for us to visit right now. What's more, it's smaller than the other location we need to investigate....the forest.
As such, it's clear to me that River is untrusting of me, so I've said that as River likes Marcus and Rogar, they should search the town for clues, while yourself, Ulrik and Desnold travel alongside me to the Villa. The town is safer for a group of three, and with the four of us working together outside of town, we can search two locations in the time it would take to search one.
Will you join me? I still await response from Desnold and Ulrik. That is.....when Ulrik gets his arse out of bed!
Vi laughs a little.
When Lou comes with the dishes, Marcus happily take some and start eating...
"Clearly your cooking skills are remarkable, Lou. Even that spicy chicken from before had a nice flavor..."
And then, upon hearing Vironus:
"I must agree with you Vironus, since you see yourself as a fighter, I assume trust and respect should be earned in the battlefield. But at least, I think we should roam a little the town together, even before splitting, in order to catch some rumors about the Villa... the townsfolk may have some interesting information about that place.
Anyway, the idea of searching in the Villa first seems pretty good to me. Once we had gathered some information about this curse and what is going on, we are likely to be exploring the forest afterwards..."
I let out a quiet girlish giggle as I see Rogar tense up and then relax, "He is relaxing and soothing, isn't he? Most people he would growl at and try to bite if he didn't like them."
I turn my attention back to Virnous, "This is no longer the arena though, this could be even more dangerous than that. This curse appears to be certain death if you are given it, where as in the Arena skill counts, as does luck. I am not trying to be argumentative, I just don't want anybody to catch this curse and then perish before we can can remove it or end the source and spread of it. If you are adamant to split up, I won't force us to stay together, I just have everyone's safety in mind. We are a team now and that means we have to put our individual fears aside and trust each others judgment."
I pick up my drink and take a large drink, refilling it afterwards. There is a tone of sadness in my voice now too and I whisper into my cup, "I too know the pain of loss, but it was not when my own life was threatened."
"Vironus, I think that yours is a good plan, but charging head-on against an unknown and invisible enemy is certainly not wise. We must first gather information about the Villa and its inhabitants before going there."
It would seem that this quest we have accepted is not just a test of our abilities to solve the curse that afflicts this community, but rather also a test of ourselves. we would all do well to have some humility and learn the values of temwork.
we are all new to this land, its places and customes unfamiliar to us. It would serve us best at the present to learn what we can together and face the dangers as a team.
He turns to Vi.
you knowledge of the ways of war is commendable and when that time is upon us then it will even more welcomed. but at present it would serv us best to allow those among skilled in diplomacy, we are, after all, also ambassadors to this new land.
Lang has some of his cooking
hmmm, will have to bring some these spices back with me
Lou takes a swig of ale. then checks the status of his wineskin, still over half, good
"Then, having make my point clear, I think all that left is wait for Ulrik to show up."
Tinious climbs upon his box again, and begins polishing the bar, whistling quietly.
Lou approaches Tinious
i hope you didn't mind but I made use of your kitchen this morning I will sure to pay you for the food I used. I must admit your kitchen is well stocked. perhaps I could purchase some the rarer spices you keep stocked
Tinious looks at Lou in shock. "I cannot cook I am a horrible cook and Dangrio is the one to talk to about procurement cause it's his lounge and he is a good cook and it is what I eat for breakfasts and sometimes elevensies too."
I let out a sigh of relief, knowing that Marcus has come to my rescue again, but in a different way this time. I lean over to Rogar and whisper to him, "He has quite the silver tongue, doesn't he? Definitely knows how to honey his words. I would love to be able to do that, but alas I was not born with such a tongue."
Surely Sumak would be familiar with what goes on around here?
The intention was to speak with he or she first, splitting up afterwards once we knew of things better.
Looking to Marcus and Lou, Vi responds. With so many people who we've been called in to protect, dying, is it not better to branch off as soon as we speak with Sumak? The faster we act, the more deaths we can prevent and we may not know much about this curse, but all problems are solved by tackling them head on, so delaying ourselves in this instance by worrying about our own safety before those of the town is only going to draw attention to ourselves and allow for more deaths to occur during that time.
Shrugging, Vi continues to express his feelings.
There are seven of us. If we travel together through town, those around us would know something was up and discover out true purpose here, endangering us all. Three people walking around together however, is a little less suspicious.
Looking towards the door, I don't know what awaits us in the Villa, but I'm drawn to the place. It has my curiosity, and I feel that out of all of the places mentioned, Castle Sengir will be our biggest concern. It seems the most obvious to house something powerful.
I turn around to look at Vironus, with a slight look of annoyance on my face, "What, pray; is our true purpose here? I thought it was to rid the world of an evil and either destroy it or seal it if that isn't possible. Unless you are here for another reason? The best way to defeat a threat is to do research and find out all we can about it first. That way we won't be caught unprepared."
That is what we would be doing. Tackling it head on is a phrase. It means to deal with something as soon as it arises. I'd like to see what Sumak has to say, but the three of you should be able to uncover any hidden truths that may be around here, which is where your research will come from. I wouldn't have suggested this path if I felt there to be any true danger at the Villa. The Castle however, we all go.
Rogar continues to sit and gently stroke the sleeping otter.
This is quite a debate we have here. At least I know my purpose: to defend those in need. Starting with the ones closest to me.
"Well, I see you have made your point and so I made mine. If you want to go first to the Villa, I can't forbid you to do so, since I'm not your commander... Anyway, the least I can do is to wish you good luck. May the Inheritor's Light protect you all...
I'm going to see what I can get and will catch up with you as soon as I can."
After that, and having finished eating breakfast, Marcus leaves.
While Marcus is eating, I look over to him, "Where will you be going Ser Marcus?"
"To find some answers. Maybe they don't know which people are affected by the curse, but they clearly have to know who had died by it. That will be a good start... ah, and find about what the people know about the Villa as well..."
"I would rather you did not go on your own, so I will accompany you." I turn to Rogar, "Would you grace us with your presence too?"
Rogar carefully hands back Ariri, trying hard not to wake the sleeping otter. "You needn't ask. I swore to protect you, so where you go, I follow."
He turns to Marcus. "But don't expect me to do the talkin'. I don't look or sound pretty, so it's better - I think - for you to handle that."
"Wait, is better if Rogar goes with the others. Since we are to be wandering the town and he doesn't feel comfortable with many people around, I think he would be calmer in open space. Also,
Then Marcus puts a hand in Rogar's shoulder.
if there could be any danger on the Villa, they would need all the fighting power we can count on."
Rogar hesitates, balancing his discomfort in the town with his promise to guard his new friend River. After a minute, he addresses her. "I must confess that Marcus speaks the truth. I would not feel comfortable in the town and might possibly get us into trouble if a Dwarf saw me. Nontheless, I will go with you if that is your wish."
I take up Arirai who gives Rogar's hand another lick before settling on my shoulders, where he looks around.
I get up and give Rogar a quick hug before walking beside Marcus. I give a little wave to everyone and turn with Marcus to leave. As we pass Vironus I hold onto Marcus' arm, until we are outside.
Once outside, Marcus will walk a few steps more, then he looks River and smiles.
"Well? How do we start our investigations?"
And then he respond, light-hearted.
"I got an idea. Let's get some proper clothes first."
I look at Marcus confused, "A change of clothes? That will be ... different. I have always worn this. But if it helps us blend in a bit, then I am more than happy to buy something." I start to follow Marcus to a shop that sells clothes. "Oh, just to let you know, I have done some preparing this morning. I have a couple of incantations that I can use today, but I can only use them once each. I can do the same as yesterday and put people to sleep for a while and I have the ability to mend minor wounds. I hope that we won't have to resort to either of these here, but if you know then it may help you out."
Looking to those still in the room; Well, that leaves four of us, plus Ulrik who's still in bed...
Although different to my original plan, I feel that Marcus and River will be fine together, though I know you have spoken with Marcus and River, so you can join them or join myself with hopefully everyone else, to first meet Sumak briefly and then head out to the Villa on the coast.
Vi finishes his food, gets up and waits by the door.
"I'm ready when you are. Just a quick bit of information-gathering, then come back here, right?"
Coming out of deep thought, Vi raises his head to Rogar.
That's right. First we locate Sumak to gain any helpful information he/she has to offer and then we head for the Villa. Once there, we search for any useful information we can find, whilst staying sharp in case of unexpected trouble and then we head straight back here.
Perhaps Sumak will have some potions or agents to help stave off the coldness that awaits. Wrap up warm as frostbite and pneumonia are common in colder climates.
lou was busy enjoying the breakfast he prepared even if only one other joined him.
he takes another swig of ale.
well now i guess i know why those two didn't want anyone else in thier group.
lou straps a couple more wine jars to the end of his walking staff.
medicinal purposes he says with a smile.
ok off to where ever then
Lou seems content regardless of a group possibly the only one that has not chosen any "side" even though some would like to assign him.
Vironus looks towards Lou and smirks.
Alcohol thins the blood you know! You'll feel the cold a lot more than I!
Vi laughs in a friendly manner before continuing.
Are we all ready then?
"Almost, but I would like to check some shop for winter clothing on the way out. I don't really fancy my fingers freezing off."
A good idea, though I'm under the assumption Sumak has some items of aid. Perhaps furs are already reserved for those of us in need? Afterall, we were summoned here to help this town it appears.
Perhaps we should call on Ulrik before we leave.
Walking along the streets of Ecland, you ask around for the best place to buy provisions, and learn that the only place would be Sumak's shop by the northern exit. You open the door to the dimly lit shop, to find a halfling wincing at the light. "Come in, go out. Either way close the door."
Sumak looks to be a slight halfling, who keeps in rather used leather armour, with a small rapier on the table. His eyes are a grey misty colour. Along the shelves of the shop are myriad magical and mundane items, everything from potions to cold weather gear. "I invite you to Sumak's Emporium where you can find anything eventually. I see many items cross my shelves, and I get shipments every week or two from Desnal, and can order up specific items without much problem."
His eyes adjust from the stunning light, and looks you two over. "How did you get here dressed like that, good ser? You have either the luck of the gods, or the wit of a newborn cat. I assume you are the group Urtar mentioned? Oh dear, oh my. Here, here." He hands you both some additional gear more suiting for adventuring in this inhospitable clime. "Urtar protects the town, but it takes alot out of him. Though if as he says you adventure, then perhaps you could help myself, too. I hear tell of a magic item hiding somewhere in the forest. It would make a rather nice decoration, or a nice profit if someone came by."
"We appreciate your help, Sumak. Let me ask you a few questions... but first tell us about this 'item' you want us to look after."
Sumak shrugs, "What else? it is a item said to house incredible magics, and be extravagant beyond compare, housed in the center of the forest guarded by unknown magicks. But, the same can be said for many things. The tales mention something of light, and I had hoped it would bring some sight back to mine eyes." Sumak looks around in confusion. "Yangrit said there would be more of you coming, and to give you a map. I only have the one."
| 2 people marked this as a favorite. |
"Ahh, knowledge. Very important to adventuring. As to my eyes, I have had many specialists look at them, to no avail. I do well enough. I can see my customers, they can see me, I can see my goods. All is well." He hands River the map of the area. "Is there naught else I can help you with?"
Ulrik walks down wearing his full combat gear. As he approaches the table he trips and falls flat on his face. As he stands up he speaks in a gruff voice."What happened last night? Did we get drunk? Oh dear... Did I do something I will regret?"
Vi approaches Ulrik and places his right hand on Ulrik's shoulder.
You're the last one up Ulrik. I didn't think you had much to drink, but I am clearly mistaken by this morning state you're in!
Vi laughs.
Come now. We've got work to do.
Vironus looks at the bowls on the table.
If you hunger, eat fast as we need to be on our way. Marcus and River have already left and are searching this Town for clues as we speak. Our first task is to find Sumak, at which point we travel to the Villa on the coast.
Vi speaks loudly to try and boost morale.
MEN, BEYOND THESE WALLS A DAY OF VICTORY AWAITS US!
"I think it was more of not being used to the drink. Well we need to get going. Let us get going. First up getting you guys some better clothing."