Leaning toward Shadara, Mang Fu Ha Saan whispers to her quietly and hurriedly.
There's no time for pleasantries now, Elf, I'm on to what you're thinkin and ... I saw what you did with that crackler in a vision. The Gods have decided our fate is joined, and I'm not one to upset the Gods.
Does your bird do tricks too, she says in a slightly louder than normal voice. She pretends to take a drink of her wine and says quietly, I will have tasks you can help with soon, for now be ready.
She finishes her drink and then asks in a normal tone, So what tricks does your bird do other than fly and eat your meat scraps?
He follows their directions--the ones who respond at least--and eventually finds his way. He approaches the stable boy with Buck behind him and Seth to the side. He waits for a moment for Seth to speak, but when the boy speaks up, What can I do for ye?, Jerram pushes a breath through his nose in irritation.
He grabs the chalkboard once again and writes his message, We need to stable this fine animal for the night.
The boy stares in confusion for a moment before laughing. I can't read none, he says between bouts of laughter. Are ye both dumb? he asks smiling like it's a joke.
Jerram breathes another heavy sigh. He hands the reigns to the boy and pulls out 2 gold pieces, handing them to the boy.
Oh, right. I'll take care of that, he says, not taking his eyes from the gold. But his nimble fingers still manage to grab the reins and take the horse to a stable.
Jerram motions for Seth to follow.
A man with monkey features slips in through the door. He tries to remain hidden as he does so, but does a poor job at it. He looks around the room. Suddenly his breath catches as he sees a creature sitting in the corner. His hands seem to flutter involuntarily in some strange gestures.
Jerram walks around to the bar and lets his eyes finish their circuit around the room. His eyes snag on a few people for only a moment, could be imagination, but he seems very thoughtful after he has seen the whole room.
In a sneering snide voice, the half orc guard stops you as you enter the city,. Two pieces of paper and two coins are handed over as by the guard jas he abs a finger in the direction of Jerram. Here ya go thess is the rules. You’ll be held responsible for anything the feeb does.
*No bladed weapon with in city limits.
*No excessive drinking and providers of such intoxicants can be fined should this occur.
*Proof of Legitimacy must be with you.and surrendered to officials when demanded..
*All purchases or sales are taxed 5% paid to the accounting house each monday for city maintenance. Failure to pay taxes results in immediate revocation of liscense and seizure of property.
*Poisons are strictly forbiden to purchase.
*All magic practiononers are required to register with a local guild. Failure to do so will result in a a hefty fine.
Having done his duty, the guard ushers the two on their way. As you proceed to walk into the streets, you here the surly guard say almost as an after thought, Now, if you're looking for suitable rest and recovery then check the inns and taverns up the road just a little way. Linder Lost is a personal favorite.
The rancid smell of overworked beasts and underfed slaves slathers the insides of your dusty nose. A fight between disgusting and indescribable battles for dominance in you head as you see the open sewage running in somewhat shallow troughs along what passes as cobblestone road. Once they were cobble stone, now they are more mud and muck from the constant tromp of caravans, merchants, and those etched upon the soil of the city to live and die with in the dreary confines of this place called home.
You step suddenly to the side as a troop of child like dogish looking miscreant creatures come cantering quite carelessly past you. You've seen children with better manners and dress than these things. You watch as the ungainly group rushes past and then wipe flecks of sweat and mud, flung from their bodies onto onlookers, from your travel worn face.
Dumb as a goblin. ..stupid as an orc and a gnoll's wife, ...only thing they have worth taking would be their lives...then that is debatable probably lose to much water in the effort anyway. and such comments made in quiet haste, rumbling anger, and hysterical whimsy accompany the calloused group. As you watch they dismount at the “holding” pen as you would call it but to those with less social class would call a stable. Bludgeoning the handlers around, the entourage finally leaves their beasts and saunter into the local tavern. The sign on the tavern, once hanging now relegated to leaning haphazardly against the wall, names the place as the Dirty Wenches Slophouse. Judging from the dilapidated building and sign, as well as the group that just entered and some of the poor sods leaving the facility, the food and drink is probably of higher quality than the establishment; meaning they might actually add clean water to the booze.
Continuing up the street,you eventually come to a intersection. Here the cobblestones are still somewhat even and the fit is a discombobulated conglomeration of mud, stone, and something you dare not look at for to long. Glancing up the to the right, You notice that the view vastly improves as you move away from the intersection in that direction. The rubble gives way gradually to poor but humble hovels. Well kept for as dingy as they are at the moment. Women of all races sit around in under the eaves washing clothing in semi clean water, cooking food, and small talking all the while trying to see what the children are doing, trying to make sure the dog or the neighbors don't steal anything, and hoping the food doesn't burn to much.
Taking the directions of those whom would answer when you asked, you turn towards these hovels and walk up the street. The monkey man beside you seems to grow more and more aggitated and then almost sullen and depressed as he continually shows people his question without getting any response. The population is either to suspicious, poor, or uneducated to understand his words. Those people in the streets give you wide berth as if subconsciously acknowledging your prosperity and respecting the assumed social barriers.
Betch ya he stole that fuzzy thing........ No he didn't he's to proper for that.....He stole it thats why he keeps it tied up and has that monkey-kid as a guard. See how he always holds up that board? Its like he thinks ..well I don't know I ain't neevers been rich how woud I know what thems one woud thinks? Boards just another way to warn people that the fuzzy thing bites. Nah actually one time my father's uncle once told me that he saw.... can be heard from the alleys ahead of you. As you glance towards the voices you see an uncommon companionship of a short fat midget race with a budding mustache and beard growing, probably the cleanest part of the boy, and a fence-pole shadow of a fellow with long hair and somewhat pointed and misshapen ears admist the tangled mop. He must still be in his youth yet his eyes appear to be aged beyond his “humanly” years. nah looks ya got us cuat. the dwarfish one says as he swats the other before dodging into the shadows.
A hundred or so more yards ahead the scenery once again ups its social standing; here the houses are atleast painted with the occasional flower in a pot or withering in the dirt. Several houses have groups of adults and children seated on the arid ground or on the few seat worth stones. In passing you hear a variety of voices answering and asking questions although you understand few of the words or dialects. Judging from the mood and the semi-formal structure of these groups, you quickly gather that these are schools. Children come and go from these groups as other adults call them and send them to do or fetch things for them. While still somewhat despot, the area is one friendly to the humble and the poor.
Upon seeing your Vanarran companion's writing board, one of the human teenagers approaches. you are looking for the Linder Lost? Friends of Mary's or just arriving visitors? I am Jael. I know where Mary's Tavern is. You buy me an apple and a couple to take back to me youngins and I'll lead you right to it. I will even tell ya a few things you probably don't know about Fifth Port. Pausing only long enough to get Jerram's nod of assent, Jael starts up the street once more setting a moderate but unhurried pace. He leads you to a large dock and after just a moment or two bartering, you are loaded on a flat ferry and crossing the water. Where's ya get that animal? It's a horse ain't it? I only seen one before the mage storms begun. They are scarce now. Don't live well in the water or sand. Other beasts, easier to feed and to keep alive, are taking over now. Like those ...{/b] He points quickly to the left as you exit the dock from which you have just arrived.. Massive grey-green beasts are roosting lazily on the flat expanse of a neighboring building. Each of these creatures is nearly as large as two of Buck. Packs much like the one used to carry your kit when out in the brush are strapped to each side of the beast. They resemble toads only these creatures have clawed feet. More of the stout little midgets, although of greater age than the one before, stand holding poles in front of their beast. These poles are laden with meat, a large fish of some kind.
Ladders and scaffolds run from roof to the streets below. Bundles are passed from worker to worker until they reach the streets. They disappear into the tomb of a building almost as fast as the arrive on the ground.
[b]Usually ya can see merchants at the Tax House. Them hopper things is Grints. Climb anything and jump most things but they seem kinda scared of the wind sometimes. [/] Jael continues on. [b]Now about the Linder Lost, Mary Jameson, she's owning it. Her husband done got killed or runned off or something few years back. The nobility wouldn't have nothing to do with Mary cuz she wasn't born to nobility just married to it. So, she came down to us more liveable folk. Bought the Lost and set bout fixing it up. She added rooms and made fixins til it can rooms nearrly 5 full Merchant companies and then it still has room for many of us kinder folk.
She hired the best craftsmen and ordered the best materials. She had the money and the know how so she used it. Now if you was wanting to know bout anything best go there. She lets thems looking for workers to say so on her wall with a papper. Can't just rumor it though she'll catch ya and then you wont be welcomed to post no more. Hob nobing has become the currency there more often than not. Thems to poor to know it and thems rich enough to go otherwise frequent the Lost. Mary listens and her staff does as well. So if its gonna happen ors been just done, She's a knowin it.
She stays neutral to what others say and think and as long her patrons follow her lead while inside her establishment she lets bygones be bygones. Enemy or Family ya better be acting hospitably if you going in her house. She's got a bruiser, huge rock troll, that fixes her rules to them not following right. He's got two others to do the light work. Most times he just watches them correct them correctablis with a swat and a boot, other times the thirst aches in his eyes and he takes a hand in the discipline himself. Bes though not get his attention. He ain't as gentil as most trolls!
He wont budge on his duties though. Ms. Marry, she done set the law right on fer his needings. He don't be forgetting and don't be for letting others go harming Mary. Rounding the corner you almost run into Jael as he stops and points.There she be, The Linder Lost. Alls ya goonna do now is cross that bridge and go on in. I'll be expecting those apples ta be waiting for me with Earl the stable master. Tell him its for me and he'll make sures I get them. You can always catch me again back in the dust bitten streets ya just came through if you need more guidance. Not waiting for a response, the teenager dodges past you and jogs back the way he came. All your attempts to engage him or delay his leaving are met with a mere wave of the hand as his pace eats the ground rapidly from under him.
Ahead of you, beyond the bridge sits the building you were told was your destination. It isn't merely large it is palatial in size. Its great expanse would smother several of groupings of houses and shops you have just passed. Four large stables, a merchant enclosure, and three stories kept clean, neat, and in perfect repair rises before you.
Prestorm wood, such as oak ,cherry and others,make the front of the Linder Lost an awesome sight to behold. Each wall appears to be set in a massive black cornerstone and you can tell as you approach that each cornerstone has been engraved with several runes. A cursory glance tells you that even from this distance you don't recognize the language of the glyphs. The roadways around the inn are meticulously kept clean from debris and rubble. Several doors lead into and out from the tavern. As you approach you see that most travelers are entering the door closest to the smaller stable.
Following Jerram and leading Buck,, you wait for the approaching stable boy. Jerram waits for a moment for you to speak, but when the boy speaks up, What can I do for ye?, Jerram pushes a breath through his nose in irritation. Grabbing the chalkboard once again, he writes his message, We need to stable this fine animal for the night.
The boy stares in confusion for a moment before laughing. I can't read none, he says between bouts of laughter. Are ye both dumb? he asks smiling like it's a joke.
You watch Jerram breathe another heavy sigh. He takes Buck's reins and hands them to the boy. Then pulling out 2 gold pieces, he gives them to the stable-boy.
Oh, right. I'll take care of that, he says, not taking his eyes from the gold. But his nimble fingers still manage to grab the reins and take the horse to a stable.
Jerram motions for Seth to follow.
Interesting, Shadara says in a normal tone as she is watching the door.
Her eyes are drawn to a man and his companion who just entered. Shadara watches the man for a second standing there surveying the room and then quickly focuses on the furry companion. She is momentarily shocked when his hands move and he forms the sign for “Here”. As she studies him further she notices that he is very well dressed and clean, almost unbelievably clean, while the man he walked in with does not seem to care about his appearance.
Could this be one of the Vanaran that I read about growing up? He does not act at all like the books talk about. I could care less about the human but I am interested in this Vanaran.
Stay here and watch, She quietly orders the man with the bird. I will call you arrowhead for now. She smiles at the thought.
As she stands up and gathers her weapon and gear to move to the door she waits just long enough to get the attention of the Vanaran and signs urgently:
With that done she turns and walks past the human male and out the door. She walks along the side of the building toward the stables about 20 feet and then stops and waits for the Vanaran to follow her. While waiting for him to get to her she checks the sights on the bow and the tension of the string making sure not to point it in the direction of the Vanaran but at the same time bein able to see him approach without turning toward him.
Jerram seems shocked. After a moment's hesitation, he starts to reply, but the elf he'd been eyeing was already gone. He stands from his place at the bar, takes another quick look around the room to see what prompted this action, then follows out the door.
He steps outside, then glances quickly to the sides, finding the elf. As he walks toward her he quickly flashes his hands through several motions.
He stops in front of her and turns his back to the wall, seeming to thrum with nervous energy as he watches all around him. Despite this feel of energy from him, Jerram seems to be standing completely still.
Mang Fu Ha Saan looks back back over his shoulder to see where the Elf girl is running off to, noting the two new entrants to the inn; one of which doing a poor job of hiding himself.
She really seems to think that she can go giving orders... At least she appears to have found the monkey lord... Though if she continues to give orders she will need to prove herself a war chief...
Shadara signed to the Vanaran nearly as fast as he to her but paused and concentrated for a second and then continued by speaking.
She barely waits for his nod before continuing.
Can you talk at all or just sign?
She Switches back to sign before she finishes speaking the last word
Mang Fu Ha Saan scowls into his ale in thought for a moment before taking another swig. Looking back over his shoulder he scans the room quickly to see what the 'Ghoran" and cohorts are up to, paying particular attention to the cohorts to see if they too have scorpion tattoos, before turning back to his drink.
Also having noted the number of guards posted about the room, as well as the Rock Troll in the corner and Dwarf currently making the rounds quelling potential trouble he takes some time to ponder the situation at hand.
This is a tough situation, none of these people are known to me so if I spring into action when these Yellow Scorpions do I may be lumped in with them as causing the problem... Besides Strong Talon, I have only one potential 'ally' and I have no idea if she can even fight... I must think like a War Chief here... I need allies, and it looks like I might be able to get the guards here to see them as a threat to the peace kept here... I must pass word to Mary if that is to happen.
Mang Fu Ha Saan sets his tankard down in a spot that obscures what he is doing to one side, then pulling out a small piece of paper and a writing tool sets about writing a note cupping his hand over the paper to block sight on the other side.
I don't know exactly what it is I have been able to garner about the situation, I did get a perception roll of 25 just now so I think I would know all of them are Yellow Scorpions and probably would have seen they are setting up for attack. I included what I would write for multiple possibilities.
The 'Ghoran' in the corner is a member of the Yellow Scorpions, he has 3 maybe 4 cohorts in the room and look to be positioning themselves around the room in preparation for something bad. **Including visual descriptions of each.**
There are 4 maybe 5 members of the Yellow Scorpions in the main room, they look to be positioning themselves in preparation for something bad.
**Including visual descriptions of each.**
There are 4 maybe 5 Yellow Scorpions in the main room and they look like they are setting up to kill the loud Troll.
**Including visual descriptions of each.**
After writing the note, he carefully folds it in two to keep the contents hidden and puts away the writing tool. Once he does so he calls over the innkeeper and hands her the note. I have something you must know, please read this.
Shadara adopts an outward composure of contemplation, while inside she is almost giddy with how easily she is getting others to follow her.
At this rate I will have a team ready by the end of the day.
After a moments hesitation she signs with an air of command;
I agree to monitor your situation first if you agree to be my second. I am gathering a team, I will explain more later. You have an idea on others to join us. I need more information on the one who is not as he seems. Briefly how are they dangerous and how do you know they are. What do you see happening when we walk back in? And what is your name, I am Shadara.
As she finishes signing she looks at him hoping that she is exuding an air of confidence and expectation that her questions will be answered immediately.
I notice an amazing bird sitting on the arm of a good sized fellow. My love of animals compels me to try to introduce myself. As I approach the pair they seem to be on edge. I look around trying to see what has them all pissing fire. I don't notice anything but I can see that they think there is a reason to check your spurs and garb a weapon. I keep my distance relax my body in a state of readiness keeping my hands away from my weapons then call out to them. Hey big boy with the bird, You two look like you have a pack of wolves comin down on you. Are you ok?
Mang Fu Ha Saan's thoughts are interrupted by someone seeming to call out to him. Looking back over his shoulder he sees that indeed someone is addressing him, the one who came inside with the Monkey Lord in fact.
Wolves? There are no wolves in this establishment...
Mang Fu Ha Saan straightens up and turns toward the man to address him.
You came inside with the furry one that my compatriot is currently conversing with, did you not? Who are you?
The “ghoran” rises suddenly and saunters upto the ogre and kobold. He orders another drink and his speech is extremely slurred. he roars over the ogres raucous comments. He stumbles slightly and slouches on the bar leaning slightly towards the lizard fellow.
Approaching with an attempted nonchalance, a jovial dwarf calls out pleasantly Glad your enjoying my liquids. They are delicious and the definitely do draw roars of approval sometimes. How about I give you one for the road courtesy of our fair owner Mary? In fact, he chuckles pleased with the thought I'll send ya off in style with a gallon of our best grog. Then you can get nice and slathered up for the night and not worry about getting mugged on the way to your abode.
One of the managers appears, as if waiting for her cue, with a gallon jug tightly capped and ready to carry out. Here you go sirs. I can get Murs to make sure you make it back to your rooms if you'd like. she states tenuously with a flighty gesture in the direction of the Rock troll near the door.
You needin escort service? Or were you just introducing me to this here loud and somewhat boreish trio? The troll lets the words slide casually off his tongue as he comes languidly over to the dwarf and drinking trio. He doesn't threaten but to casually leans against the counter with his cudgel wobbling like a jugglers pin against his leg. Hears MS. Marry just got the last spill cleaned up from the stain he made on the floor. That's a lot of unnecessary work for her and her staff. Hope you three understand that. Courtesy says you should accept whats been give and be like your walking tree there and leaf. the trolls dry chuckle gurggles off his grotesquely well proportioned canine teeth. The teeth are now visible from the grimace like grin splayed across his face.
You needin escort service? Or were you just introducing me to this here loud and somewhat boorish trio? The troll lets the words slide casually off his tongue He doesn't threaten but to casually leans against the counter with his cudgel wobbling like a jugglers pin against his leg. Hears MS. Marry just got the last spill cleaned up from the stain he made on the floor. That's a lot of unnecessary work for her and her staff. Hope you three understand that. Courtesy says you should accept whats been give and be like your walking tree there and leaf. the trolls dry chuckle gurggles off his grotesquely well proportioned canine teeth. The teeth are now visible from the grimace like grin splayed across his face.
A quick glance around the room reveals that the others you have marked as wearing the tatoos are in easy, easy reach of the Tree man and Ogre but apparently are still observer only status. Several of the other patrons have removed themselves from the immediate vicinity of the sextet at the counter and are moving further into the inn, or leaving by the door across the room on the other side of the counter. More servers are present now as well mingling among the groups of patrons. Several of the waitress's and waiters are lingering just slightly longer than absolutely necessary at the counter. It appears that this kind of situation has a planned and practiced method for diffusing it that the servants are making sure is carried out.
The stone man and his bird are near the counter by a human lady that fits what you have heard about Mary Jameson the owner of the Linder Lost. She is reading a paper somewhat thoughtfully and keeps glancing surreptitiously around like she is counting her patrons. Seth is near the counter as well hollering at the Oread and asking bout a pack of wolves.
After a few moments pf s;oght uncertainty the Ogre and Tree turn to leave the inn. Several of the other “tatted” people follow after them not to long after.
Slowly the patrons and staff return to their peaceful interactions.
Snuckles an Orc's nose! I was figuring something more would haf happened wif them loots. [b/:
The two of them change to past “digressions” at MS. Marry's Inn and eat as thy chaw on the gossip and swap other backchat.
/\/\/\/\ The code tags on that post are screwy.
Mang Fu Ha Saan on hearing somebody shouting over the Ogre turns and sees the 'Ghoran' walking over to the Ogre seemingly finally about to make a move. He watches the events unfolding intently but is unable to make out if any serious dialogue is occurring beneath the obvious ruse. When the Dwarf, shortly followed by Murs, make their way over he relaxes believing the situation under control by the Inn staff.
Miloș Blackwolf sighed as he dismounted Windrunner. This was a hard place to be. The sun was too bright. The noises were too loud. The smells were too sharp. The servants were too stupid. Apparently Windrunner's eerie silence and the sweet-spicy tang of blood he exuded had set the horses in the stables to panic. The grooms who should have been coming out to meet him were too busy trying to settle them down.
"Eh! Calm down! What's into 'em?" "Dunno? But they're goin' mad."
"That, I am afraid, would be Windrunner here." Miloș explained, patting the leather clad flank of the horse with a sound like thumping a sack of wheat - not that he'd ever handled a sack of wheat of course.
"Given your issues, I'll leash him to the back of the inn. Don't worry about feeding or grooming him - I'll do for him myself."
Quickly he moved away from the stables, and the other animals started to calm down. He rummaged in the saddlebag and drew out an almost unused leash. Clipping it to the bridle he wrapped it a few times around a post at the back of the inn and ordered "Stay here"
No real point in the leash he reflected Windrunner'll stay here till he dies now, or someone tries to move him. I pity anyone who tries... Sighing again as he realised the issue he took a piece of chalk-rock and scribed on the wall "DANGER. DO NOT MOVE HORSE." The last thing he needed was Windrunner eating some peasant and causing problems. He took his goods and left the rest in the saddlebags.
Things he moped were so much easier in the Vampire lands. No-one there would touch a jet black horse with a crest stamped on it if it wandered into their hut. They'd just move out!
Sighing again as he came around the side of the inn and once again into sunlight, he headed for the inn proper.
A dead white man, wearing what must have been beautiful parade armour a hundred miles ago, walks up to the door of the inn and stops.
"I'm in need of a room and a bath." he announced imperiously to the human bouncer at the door. "I am Miloș Blackwolf, of the Order of the Black Wolf. I am here" he announced to the room at large "in peace. May I enter?"
Slowly the patrons and staff return to their peaceful interactions.
Snuckles an Orc's nose! I was figuring something more would haf happened wif them loots. [b/] the troll says as he takes a plate of food just offered to him by a waitress and ambles over to his previous seat. One of the waiters, though now it is apparent he was another enforcer, lumbers over to the trolls seat with him. [b]Grollyin! That what she be., I dont care bout that snot mouthed ogres so long as he pays his dues and moves on. But something queasy in my grubbins bout that hoot there moving tree. Dwerent no oakling or treeant as I neevers seen. Just sometin Grollyin , he was.”
The two of them change to past “digressions” at MS. Marry's Inn and eat as thy chaw on the gossip and swap other backchat.
Wagoneers group are prepping a caravan to the Myloa. I hear.... probably end of the month.....Maybe they could use some more funding or guards to work with......
The monastery of Treho? Yeah it was destroyed but I hear a few of the ancient order are trying to rebuild....... Maybe but if they do '' isn't going to let them
The conglomerate isn't very happy with the yellows. Seems they been harboring a few not so welcome parties … yes.... In port yes. Only thing that's stopping a conflict of blood, is Nella and J'all can't agree on …......
Kinda funny sometimes to watch the fresh folk come in the port. They get the real rules if they come to the correct “gate” but only some of the correct ones if they come through the others. ...Yap I pickered this one up a few days ago and jist fowwlered him for a bit, Longs bout time he broke a bit twas bout the time that he jigginged a wizbanger at a kid , fritted him good it did. Magicsa guards zinged him good on his way to the overnight house. ….bout lost a weeks worth of work foddder laughing....
Other such chatter and gossip flit around the inn as the crowd returns to normal.
On the stage a band of half-elves take up a jaunty saucy tune. Several of the crowd soon are dancing and joining in the revelry
On the far side of the common room, a board sits attached to the wall, posted to it are several papers written in a variety of languages.
- One ask for a simple group of helpers to guard a delivery of goods into the barrows.
- Another seeks a enforcer for a local brewers guild at the upcoming festival of the harvest.
- Crew needed to escort Lady of Class to the Purified temple.
- Magic in the making requests couriers for custom orders. They also are seeking adventurous fellows willing to seek out varied alchemical and magical components.
- Menagerie seeking handlers, trainers, and other skilled workers,
as he speaks Milos enters the inn, grateful for the shade.
Shadara stops abruptly as she surveys the room. She can feel the charged energy that is coming from everywhere. She sees that Jerram's companion and arrowhead are talking and seeming to not notice what is happening. She starts moving toward arrowhead and signs:
Shadara stops next to arrowhead and says,
Have you brought me one for inspection, so far I am not impressed.
She looks the newcomer up and down, then signs to Jerram:
Jerram shakes his head and signs to Shadara
From the corner of his eye, Jerram watches the tattooed men and their conversation with the troll. Once he's finished signing he pulls out his board and writes on it. He pauses halfway through then scribbles farther. He presents it to the rocky creature with a bird, My name is Jerram. Farther down in a more hurried hand, is a scribbled question, You wouldn't happen to be a "druid of the lost beasts," would you?
Mang Fu Ha Saan, bemused at the Elf's comment lazily replies. Came right to me just like you did.
He then observes the two in front of him signing to each other in conversation.
Hand language? This is something very useful, I will have to learn it.
When Jerram presents his writing board he responds.
Yes, Jerram Lord of Monkeys, I am.
Ms. Mary is the one behind the counter currently reading. If you are taking room with us, we offer a variety of amenities that might suit your tastes. All of our rooms are guaranteed free of rats, bats, mice, and other small creepy crawlers. Some of the rooms have baths and private dining rooms attached to them as well although these are a site more than the common folk can afford. You however look like you come from a family of affluence. So these rooms may be more suited for your tastes and privacy needs.Ms. Mary could assist further. Also if you have servants and such that you currently are not in need of, you may find you could "hire" them out to the searching employers on that board. Pointing casually at a board on the wall showing many attached papers. It might be a way to supplement your wealth with little effort on your part.Well, now i spilled my gut to ya come on in and enjoy yer stay.But best move on and let me pay attention to my responsibilities.
Scanning the board I find:
Jerram raises an eyebrow, then writes again. We must have a long conversation later. Do you seek the scaled rover too? Have you found him?
Scanning the board I find: [dice=perception]1d20+5
Jerram lets out a breath as the tattooed man leaves. He looks over at Shadara, and his fingers begin to flash.
Jerram stops, freezing mid-sign. He turns, trying to pinpoint the origin of the conversation.
Jerram grabs his board and rushes over to the table. His handwriting is sloppy as his hand shakes. Tell me about the Monestary of Treho. What happened?
Mang Fu Ha Saan, hearing something about only getting all the rules from one correct gate pauses for a moment to consider possible consequences of what not having those rules might entail... Turning to Mary...
Innkeeper Mary, What are those ones talking about only getting the correct rules at a certain gate? Do you know which gate that is, or what the full set of rules is?
Mary laughs. Her voice is rather pleasant and very cheerful. So you have heard have you? I have this happen all the time to my newly arrived guest. First let me explain a bit about our city.
The city is overseen by a triumvirate. Each of the three rule a different sector of the city. Those people of like minded morals tend to garner their living where they feel most comfortable. That means the sector of the mage that has matching morals.
I personally have situated the Linder Lost in the middle of the two most extreme. I remain here because it draws the most custom for me. I stay out of the politics of the city.
When people come to the city they are given a set of rule from the guards according to the morals the guards in that sector. The sector that does what they feel is best for the whole populace, irregardless of what sector the people chose to reside, tend to give the rules as they were agreed upon by the Triumvirate. Rules only come into pass for the whole city IF 2 of the 3 agrees that it is a valid rule.
Let me see the rules they gave you,, She pauses just long enough for you to hand her your paper. Glancing over them she reads them aloud, *No bladed weapon with in city limits.
*No excessive drinking and providers of such intoxicants can be fined should this occur.
*Proof of Legitimacy must be with you. and surrendered to officials when demanded..
*All purchases or sales are taxed 5% paid to the accounting house for city maintenance. Failure to pay taxes results in immediate revocation of license and seizure of property.
*Poisons are strictly forbidden to purchase.
*All magic practitioners are required to register with a local guild. You came through the right area. These are complete and accurate.
You are a smart one though. Not everyone thinks to double check what they are told. What else may I help you with while you are here? Her grin is once again endearing.
I should say my druidic Friend. Yes i recognize you a s a druid. You treat your companion to kindly to be a rover or an owner of the fine eagle. Besides that, with Vigi and the Druidic farms and circle here, many druids visit. I would suggest that you make sure to get a register chit from him though. I could, for say 3 coppers, send a message to him with my own seal upon it to obtain such a chit for you while you remain here out of the humid heat. Also if you decide to stay with me during your time in the city, I can provide food and board for both of you with the proper accoutrements. This might also help prevent any misunderstandings or malcontents injuring,She pauses,[b]What is your brothers name? Ah, good name. As I was saying it might avoid anything untoward happening to Strong Talon. Just think it over and when ready catch my eye and I will come back to assist you.[/] Again she treats you with an endearing smile and then moves down the counter to converse with another patron.
I posted the incorrect rules. Here is what should have been posted. *No bladed weapon may be drawn with in city limits.
*No excessive drinking and providers of such intoxicants can be fined as well as the violator should this occur.
*Proof of Legitimacy must be with yo at all times and shown when asked by government officials.
*All purcases as sales are taxed 5% paid to the accounting house each monday for city maintenance. Failure to pay taxes results in immediate revocation of liscense and seizure of property.
*Poisons are strictly forbiden for any reason including sale or purchase.
*All magic practiononers are required to register with a local guild immediately upon entering city. Failure to do so will result in a "band" being enchanted upon such practioner that will prevent further use of magic. This can only be removed after registering with a guuild of appropriate type and paying a hefty fine.
The two conversant see you approach in such an abrupt manner they are a bit taken back.Usually, eavesdropping and then inserting yourself without invitation is commonly known as rude.[/]Glancing at your board, the older human continues[b]and for your letters, well i never did learn to understand them. I was always in the field or with the herds of my Lord and so had no need not time for that. If you have questions, I guess I will be magnanimous and answer them once you tell me what they are. He looks up at you expectantly ad waits.
Towards the bottom of the listings, most of them for generic help in inns or taverns. you also see a notice written in a rough scrawl.
Milos walks forthrightly to the proprietor, however seeing that she's talking to some... thing, detours by the notice boards while he waits for her to become free.
One there seems a lull in their conversation he approaches.
"Ms Mary? I am I am Miloș Blackwolf, of the Order of the Black Wolf. I have been sent to lend aid to your city with this disaster, but in the mean time I find myself in need of a room."
Smiling he holds up a handful of tetradrach so popular in his home country. He is, apparently, unaware that the apocalypse that swept away the bank rendered such coinage almost worthless.
If you're okay with it...
Basically, an intricate, magically-hardened, glass-encased, arcane-symbol-marked silver-cored coin. Issued by a magi-run bank, they were all but impossible to counterfeit, expensive to make, and backed by the bank.
These were a premium coin - somewhere above platinum - accepted everywhere. Milos was given expenses in tetradrachm.
With the bank gone they're only worth the value of the silver in the middle of the coin.
Basically the situation European nobility with a bag full of 100 Euro pieces would be in in America if Europe were destroyed in an apocalypse.
Well MR. Milos or do you prefer MR. Blackwolf? What kind of room are you needing? I am somewhat familiar with the Order and will give you an advanced piece of info..There are three houses with in the city here. They are not always welcoming to outsiders. So...what would you like to drink and eat? Hopefully the moon has just finished her monthly showing. She smiles quietly and carefully makes sure that she keeps her voice soft.
Where would you be from and who is your parent if you don't mind the questions? I am not offended if you choose not to answer. My late husband was friendly with Vitras of the Order of the Grave. I liked them, both my husband and Vitras, She chuckles at her own humor then continues The friendship caused some grief for us in the end but I have never regretted it. We are just a bit more well...circumspect.. in our associations now. Better to avoid issues than to create them, don't you think? She says with a sly conspiratorial wink. Now how long are you intending to be here? Will we be able to get acquainted more while you are staying here? I would like that it has been along time since I have had some one of noble birth who has such gifts here to visit.pausing she looks at the tetradrach and again grins, your of that house of Blackwolf. You are far from home then and should be cautious about these. she picks up one of the proffered coins tenderly there are some in this city that will know where they come from and deduce that you are from there as well. If you wish, in remembrance of my late husband, I could hold them for you and you could "draw" against them while in this city. I would give you a ledger; you would have merely to "pay" with a slip bearing my sigil and the funds would be drawn from what I have held by a local lender. I only offer in token of friendship with Vitras and the kindness she has shown to us. Think it over and let me know before you leave the Linder if you will. Now, what class of room would you like and would you like a bath attached?
Milos also responds quietly, a delighted smile on his face.
"I am fortunate indeed that I have so readily discovered civilised company in the city! Please, I insist, call me Milos. As for my provenance, I am the son of the Voivode Mihnea, of the Green Hills." he grimaces, and continues "Though the North has been just as devestated as the South. The rolling lands that gave my home it's name are now almost nothing but desert. My father manages to keep a tiny settlement alive, but the future is a dark one. It is a silver age, so they say."
"I have only modest needs, and it sounds as if I had best keep to myself. A simple room - just a bedroom, and a bath of course. I am afraid I have had to leash my Warhorse - a Blood Horse of the Green Hills - outside the back of the inn. I fear he was giving the other animals coniptions. I am a little concerned someone might try to steal him, and I understand that it would difficult to explain the resultant death. I would appreciate your advice."
"If I understand your meaning about Houses, then I am torn. I must introduce myself to 'family', or appear a poacher. If they are not willing to uphold the principles of hospitality though, I will be as circumspect as I may."
Speaking up a little he continues
Well, after a brief pause, Milos as for your horse, I do have a small store room with a currently open bottom floor and a small "apartment" above. The bath however is not attached to it although it does have its privy within a small enclave attached to the room. The bath, you would be able to use one attached to a private room as long as I did not need to rent the room. The store room has a small hallway connecting it to here through the side kitchen. I'll have Marset show you now. I would suggest, where many have sought the answers you seek, so I would rent you the room for a pittance due to its fairly rough condition and would suggest the month. Then I will refund anything not used to you. How does 2 silver a day for the room 1 for the bath and 2 for the "stable" sound? One meal would be included and I would see that any "scrap" meat be set aside circumspectly for your use as well. Marry pauses waiting for am answer. Upon receiving one, she continues I can discreetly send a request to Vitras to meet you here tonight and maybe she could make your visitation to our Port easier to accept by the Houses.
Hearing Milos declare his intent to stop the desertification of the land Mang Fu Ha Saan speaks out to the newcomer.
I know who is causing it. If you are a strong and capable warrior, join me and we can put an end to it.
"That sounds perfect, Ms Mary." Milos agrees, smiling while keeping his teeth hidden. "And yes, if you can organise a meeting it would be very helpful. Thank you again."
Milos turns, blinks and looks up at the huge... thing. "Really? My luck really has turned, it seems. If you can end it, I'm interested.. Though... I'm certainly capable - but I'm not sure I'm capable enough to do half of taking down whatever is killing the world. Are you possibly part of some larger group?" discretely he tries to keep an eye on Ms Mary, wondering if she will signal he has been approached by a hero, or a madman.
Mang Fu Ha Saan finishes what remains of his ale and moves to take seat next to Milos.
I have assembled a team. He points to each who are present in the room. The strange Elf, the Lord of Monkeys, and the man who's horse is not a horse.
Returning his attention to Milos.
Those were prophesied to join me in restoring balance to the natural world. Vigi the High Druid of this city revealed to me a prophecy that we were chosen warriors.
A group known as the Yellow Scorpions is behind the devastation. They are our enemy.
Mang Fu Ha Saan turns to Mary.
You seem to have the wisdom and knowledge of a sage. What do you know about this group?
**AFTER THIS CONVERSATION**
I also must thank you for your offer to acquire a 'chit' for me.
He hands Mary the 3 copper as she requested earlier.
"Huh - I also have a horse that is not a horse. Alright - I'm with you." Milos obviously looks a bit uncomfortable at joining so quickly, but equally desperate for answers. "How do you know it is these Yellow Scorpions?"
** spoiler omitted **
** spoiler omitted **...
Save: 1d20 + 10 + 1 + 1 + 2 ⇒ (5) + 10 + 1 + 1 + 2 = 19
I've done nothing! And now I have to figure out how to talk my way out of this. If it's alright ma'am I'd like to get a room. How much is one ? Unk asked the lady who brought the liquid she called grog, looking a bit nervously at Murs...
It will cost YOU 3 silver a night for the basic room and 5 if you want a bath. If you can afford better and wish better I can give pricing for the more "affluent" rooms. Your friends are not being admitted at this point though due to their current state of intoxication. Had you been more liberal in you libations of alcohol, you would not be welcome at this point either. Money will have to be paid up front and meal cost is not included in the room fee. Now, what do you want? a somewhat testy maid says as your companions prepare to leave or be have assistance leaving.