Noriel watches the kobolds, lost for their words, she tilts her head back a little running her slender fingers through her hair, twirling the end of her hair as she waits quietly in the back watching the outcome. She had little knowledge of this place and was more curious as to the reason the group was friends with Kobolds, a questionable alliance to say the least.
Noriel watched her surroundings keeping her guard up while she maintained the stones floating around her wrist as a precaution for the possibility of an attack.
”While these Kobolds may appear to be allies they may still be trickery in the camp”
Noriel looked to Jirani who was appearing to be just as quiet as she was and gave a slight hint of a smile, though she turned away if he looked in her direction.
”I wonder how long Jirani been with these guys, he appears to be in the dark as much as I”
Noriel decides why not speak to the Suit of Armor, Jirani, moving over slowly to him while the others converse with the Kobolds.
”Hey lovely, you know the reason we here? Not really a place for a lady like myself, but I guess it would do, only hope we don’t have to spend the night here.”
Whispering to Jirani to avoid interrupting the conversation, that the other group members are having with the overgrown rats, “kobolds”. Noriel recalls that she needs to do some shopping when they make it back to town.
”I really need to pick up some field supplies so I can sleep on something other than a hard ground and a cloak for a blanket.
When Rhasadilara has completed her circuit (assuming she finds nothing of concern), she returns to the entrance to the kobold den.
Noriel immediately put on the edge of her toes as the Kobold makes a connection to her bloodline. Caught off guard she returns with a harsh tongue.
”I beg you pardon little one, my kind? Why would you insult a woman of the elven race, even if my blood is only half as pure it still flows pure as any elf. Above ground is my nature and typical of my kind. What have you friends with humans?”
Noriel attempting to redirect the question, her temper raised up as she tries to deflect the question in a vulgar tone. Her attention now focused on Sootscale, and extremely surprised that someone of such tiny nature would have knowledge of Drow.
”A kobold, really, a Freaking kobold… Doesn’t he know that a drow would typically just kill him for such insults, asking a superior race questions. He is lucky that he is accompanied by so many tiny rats, and people of good nature or I would have his tongue.“
Noriel neutrality kicking in, out for herself and defense of herself, While killing is not her main motive, one would have little question to think about the removal of one’s tongue if it suited her purpose.
At this point everyone could quickly tell the rage was already quickly boiling at such a simple question, a harmless question at that. Noriel was very defensive about her race, primarily because she was born Half-Drow and Half Human a decision she could not make. However, if word got out that she was in fact a Drow and raised by Drow that it would blow back in her face and she may be hunted by elves. Even though she doesn’t flaunt her Drow side of her race, it shows through naturally both in appearance and style, and the her seductive tone, along with her short temper. This natural flaunting is very hard to suppress from years living as a Drow.
Lothar glowered at Noriel. Her disrespect for Chief Sootscale's station was just more proof that on her own, away from the Wardens, she wouldn't last very long.
Again, Noriel, you must earn respect before it is given. And far as Chief Sootscale is concerned, you have done nothing which justifies the level of respect that you think you deserve. As a Warden, you serve others. Forget your past, half-elf. As long as you dwell in it while you're here, you will find living above ground to be more difficult than you would like.
Rubbing his head with his left hand, the magician turned his attention back to the kobold chieftain.
Forgive my fellow Warden, Chief Sootscale, for she has much to learn. As for your generous and gracious offer, it would be in poor taste to turn down a meal from kobold allies. Therefore, we accept your offer of hospitality. Then Lothar quickly added, We will stay and feast with you!
"You do us great honor Chief of the dragon people's. What news or reports o yer scouts might be o import to us?"
@Noriel
"In tha portion here tha kobold is master an a good alli fer us, tha land is vast an no shortage o enemies. Tha is why we value err friends. "
Jirani takes the moment of Lothar's comment to lean in to Noriel, "He speaks truth. It's not that we didn't notice but can you not see you have come to the edge of civilization where what you do defines what you are..."
Jirani offers a broad smile to kobold and merely bows to the chief to show acknowledgment of the kobolds station.
-Posted with Wayfinder
Noriel was really not happy with the outcome, her pride insulted by the kobold, something she has little tolerance for is addressing her Drow heritage. She crosses her arms very abruptly and throws her noise up with a snarky look towards Lothar. While her rage comes to a halt as her race apparently has been unmasked at Lothar “above ground” comment.
”I believe I will stand my ground over here, hmff”
It was best that Noriel not cause any more problems with this rat for a friend. She was totally not thrilled with the feeling of being insulted and standing by doing nothing. However, she decided to let it go for now, grudgingly.
For the rest of the evening, she remains completely silent, her as though she was a mute, giving Lothar some dark glancing looks as well as all the Kobolds(rats) in the area. Friends with Kobold’s were truly an unexpected thing, and she really wanted no part in this allied race, especially after she felt insulted.
Although for the first time in her life she felt a bit a shamed at her outburst in front of her possible new found friends.
”Friends…Now that’s something I wouldn't of thought of. Have I made friends for the first time? In Drow society there are no friends, there are leaders, and underlings. I normally would have to be aggressive to assert myself, to display power to avoid being taken advantage of, yet here I feel as if I may have wronged my friends. What is this feeling, I have never experienced.”
Noriel does not cry as that is purely a sign of weakness for any race, especially a Drow but her heart weighed heavily at her thoughts. She maintained a stern face and a disgruntled attitude towards everyone else but in her mind, her heart she was questioning her own actions.
Barnabus considers the odd exchange between the kobold and the lady. It occurs to him that from a cultural perspective it is possible for the kobolds words to be cause for serious alarm....
@Noriel
"I beg your pardon my ways and your ways are not the same, but I am trying to understand. Does yer life make yah think the kobold was threating to do you harm?...I mean the words could be viewed in a poor light."
Before heading into the lair, Rhasa will attempt to get Noriel's attention and have her hold back to find out what happened. If she refuses, the ranger will shrug her shoulders and follow the rest in.
Rhasadilara will move over to the half-elf, concern evident on her face. "I scouted around looking for trouble. Looks like I could have stayed here and found it. What's happened? Are you well?"
Jirani will pause before following the kobold, hovering a respectful distance to see if the elf kind manage to find a good place to connect...
Noriel rolls her eyes at the Rhasa words, although she finds short wind to answer.
”I’m Fine”
Noriel voice trying to imply a heavy crude tone but it comes out more like self-pitty.
”That kobold should have not insulted my race… Its fine I will wait at the edge of this little establishment till your ready to leave.”
Really, Noriel just wanted time to process what is going on in her head. Still not sure about the people around her, it was the first sign that she was accepted somewhere, a thing hardly ever experienced by Drow.
Noriel didn’t wait long for a reply and just shrugged her shoulders.
”I’ll be waiting there”
Noriel stood straight up more ridged, regaining her posture that fell for a few moments. She made her way towards the gate keeping her guard up because kobolds were around and they were not to be trusted.
Rhasadilara frowns, "It's really not like him to insult someone - he's a born, if inexperienced, diplomat. Perhaps there was a misunderstanding. Rest assured, kobolds can certainly have their moments, but this entire tribe owes a debt of gratitude that they have always honored."
She starts down the tunnel, pausing to look back. "If you want to talk about it, let me know. Anger and frustration only harm the holder and retaliation for a slight perceived or real does no good, so I would rather help you let it go before it comes to that."
She remains looking at the half-elf for a moment before turning to join the others.
When she can do so, she asks Lothar quietly, "It seems I missed the excitement. What happened with Noriel?"
Lothar sighed. From what I saw and could tell, she's used to being in a superior position when dealing with kobolds. She demanded respect from Chief Sootscale that, quite frankly, she hadn't earned. I told her as much. I also told her that whatever her past might have been, she needed to let it go. Otherwise, she would continually make problems for herself that could have been avoided.
He shook his head sadly, but then glanced up at Golden Arm with a smile. I was going to fix a meal and take it to her so that her stubbornness wouldn't cause her to starve. But maybe it would be best if you took it out to her.
Seeing that the others are speaking to the young lady....Barnabus enters the sootscale tunnels...
She will be needed for some role, she has some part to play...
"Yes, let's do it that way. You can introduce Jirani to the tribe while Barnabus regales them. She and I must talk - I can sense a conflict, but I'm not sure of its source. I suspect it is a battle she must fight alone."
"But I want her to know that I intend to aid her in the battle if I can."
"I believe that unlike the kobolds who has tha noble heritage o dragons tha her heritage is one tha brings her shame an guilt an constant rejections. Expectin such she hears it in places it is not intended."
"Tis tha same wit mah vocation, the title o witch conjures such conjectures as well."
Rhadadilara offers, "She is still finding her way in these lands. Don't let it trouble you."
Jirani continues to be quiet in the background, he was not prepared to comment on Norile's comings and goings and he also had yet to earn the respect of this chief. The paladin was content to wait until spoken to.
Lothar nodded at Rhasa's words, the wisdom inherit obvious even to him. Turning to Chief Sootscale, he said, But enough of that, noble chief. It is my pleasure to introduce you to yet another member of the Wardens, one Jirani Shores.
To Jirani: This is Chief Sootscale, leader of the Sootscale kobold tribe, descendant of dragons.
Jirani offers a bow to the chief, Chief Sootscale, my thanks for your gracious hosting. I am honored to be a new member of this group you seem to hold in high regard. If there is anything I can do for you, just ask.
Noriel walks around the outside passing her own thoughts until the group is ready to move out. She snacks on some rations she has.
Rhasadilara excuses herself and takes a pair of plates outside where she sits on the ground and motions to Noriel to help herself to the second plate.
"Culture is an interesting thing. It can vary widely from one area to another, even adjacent lands. In one, everyone that is not a particular race has a disadvantage and is seen as little more than property. In another, every creature's worth is determined by that creature's actions. A wise traveler figures out what sort of culture she finds herself in. You've traveled a lot, I gather, has this been your experience?"
She returns to her meal, hoping the new team member finds it in her heart to open up a little.
Barnabus enjoys the roasted game and roasted vegetables....
"Thank you for having us Chief Sootscale. We shall not tarry long, fed we ave more werk ahead o us."
"Where else do we need tah travel to?"
A little bit of time had passed before Rhasadilara came outside to offer up some food from the banquet, at which time Noriel had the time to cool down and wasn’t as steamed up as she originally was. Many thoughts had crossed her mind as she relaxed and found some peace in her mind from the chieftain.
”…..Outcast in every place, no wonder the Drow nation hates everyone…..”
Noriel thoughts continued only to stop at the presence of Rhasadilara, the elf, showing kindness. Her mind going blank, nearly stunned at the fact that her opposing race showed a Major Gesture of kindness.
”………………..What is going on………..She is acting so different then the Drow text books?”
Noriel really wasn’t sure how to respond, but slowly moves over to accept the plate, lifting the plate with her telekinesis she brings it to her hand. Unsure of the elf intentions she lets her guard down only out of pure shock does she forget her intentions whether good or bad, while leaning towards good. Once the plate is within her hands she sits slowly at Rhasadilara side.
”Yes, this land is very different.”
Noriel pauses long enough to eat a few pieces from the plate. Looking at the elf beside her, she speaks in a much softer tone then she has ever spoke before, relaxed and sweet, though it didn’t seem like she was trying to charm Rhasadilara at all.
”You know, elves are nothing like the history books I read growing up. I have heard so many horrors of your kind, and I was taught to hate your kind. Its only now that I am seeing how different our history really is.”
Noriel was looking down while she spoke, not typical of her attitude where she would speak with commanding presence, or at least attempt to.
Nodding, the ranger holds up one finger as she tries to make a point, "Don't get the wrong idea. There are plenty of people, human, elven, whatever, on the surface that do not deserve your trust. Some will attack you or me or Lothar not because we are different, but merely because we exist. Others will attack because we are different. Others will give you their last bit of bread to keep you from going hungry even as they starve. I have traveled a bit, myself, and I have seen many good people and many bad people. But you need to evaluate each on his or her own merits. Honestly, I have had my doubts about you, but in our brief travels together, I find that I trust you."
She pauses to take a bite and stares into the distance. "I try to be one of the good people. I'm not sure how well I'm doing - it's not mine to judge - but I am trying to be part of something good here. And trying to support others to be good. I would like to think that you can trust me and my companions, but that is something that only you can decide. The kobold tribe here happens to be better than the reputation of their race would indicate and I trust them. Naturally, if you have had bad interactions with kobolds in the past, I can't blame you if it is hard to see past that right away. Someday, perhaps, you can see them as allies as I do."
Gesturing at the plate, "Their banquets are not exactly what you would find in a human royal court, but the food is made with care and offered with respect. I find that to be sufficient spice for me."
Noriel noticed that after a few hours had gone by that she was still sitting beside Rhasadilara an elf having a moderate conversation that surpassed anything that she would have ever thought of. Noriel took her hat off and set it on the ground beside her. The sun was settling into the dusk, as she brushed her hair from her eyes and behind her long dark tipped Elven ears. She turns to Rhasadilara and mentions to her in a soft respectable tone.
”For the first time in my life would I ever consider the thought, an elf as my friend. Would you allow me a half-drow the respect of friendship with you? However, before you consider this understand my race. I do not attempt to embrace my Drow side, though in my life, I was raised by my mother a full blood Drow and I am now an outcast to my own kind. She was…well that doesn’t really matter, the point is because her visions and mine, they didn’t cross paths very well. With that said, years of living in Drow society is very hard to break. I am learning and understanding life’s balance not hatred.”
Noriel gulps and at the same time, her guard was up because she wasn’t sure of Rhasadilara response. Though since Rhasa words of trust passed her lips, she thought the release of information would allow some closure and perhaps set Rhasa and her at ease for the first time.
Immediately after Rhasa answers she stands up and looks to the gate when the group exited.
”It appears it time to head out, though I am not sure of where you wish to venture to, I believe town was next on our list!”
"I have enough enemies for even an elf's lifetime. I would be honored to have you as a friend and try to help you learn and understand life in the sun. I'm sure you have much to teach me about those that cast you out, if the inclination to do so ever strikes you."
Standing up with Noriel, she agrees. "I think we should introduce you and Jirani to two more of the original members of the Wardens. They have found it to their liking to remain with the settlers and try to establish a government for this new land so it can grow and prosper intelligently. We cannot be like lemmings, consuming everything in sight until we have destroyed the land and have to move on. We must temper our enthusiasm and provide for the land so she can provide for us in turn." Raising a hand, she apologizes, "Sorry - each of us has a cause close to our heart. Mine is that we settle the land, but not destroy it. My friends have agreed that we set some areas aside to remain wild so that nature can continue to flourish without man's interference."
Lothar steps out of the kobold warren to find both Golden Arm and Noriel still talking with one another. However, the half-elf was different somehow, as though a lot of the tension that she once carried seemed to be gone.
The magician smiled as he thought to himself, Yeah... she has that effect.
He approached the two. We need to get going if we're going to reach the settlement. I can't wait to see Seth.
Barnabus likewise returns from the feast.
"Chief Sootscale reports no problems err concerns requirin our attentions."
"Very good." She glances at Noriel as she withdraws to consider their conversation, "A most productive visit, then. Let us be off."
Noriel looks to Lothar and Barnabus as they exit and before they scoot off into the distant travels and says with nearly immediate change in her voice.
”Oh boys, you leave a woman out here and send poor dear Rhasa out to serve me food. You really should work on your manners with woman, especially you Lothar for I thought you were a ladies’ man? Rhasa has told me so much about you…”
Noriel knew that would get under Lothar skin at the very least. She winked at Rhasa hoping that she would play along, just to see what Lothar would do. She put her hand on Rhasa shoulder in a bit seductive stance.
”Of course, you left both your women out in possible danger”
Noriel looked at both Lothar and Barnabus when she spoke. A devilish smile crosses her lips, for the first time it seemed genuine, almost teasing in her tone. Her other hand on her hip carrying on the conversation with Rhasa.
”Us girls has to stick together don’t we?”
Noriel winked again at Rhasa, showing a night and day difference in her attitude, a playful style rather than a more serious tone.
"You ladies err tha danger lurking outside!"
Jirani guffaws after Barnabus, Indeed I have been around just long enough to know that Rhas presents no classic maiden beset by danger seeking a "strong man". So too you Noriel seem more than capable. I plan to hide behind you both in our future endeavors. The paladin offers a wide grin that displays his continual mirth.
In the sternest tone of voice he could muster, Lothar responded to Noriel's jape. My manners are just fine. You'll find no one here that will mistake you for being a "delicate flower", Noriel.
Then he added with a sly smile, I myself think of you more as a thistle.
"Good offensive maneuvers lads, tha ambush o feminine wiles was thwarted....fer now!"
Rhasadilara listens, expression somewhat serious until she reads Noriel's jest for what it is. She relaxes, then laughs out loud at the men's replies. In mock seriousness, she offers, "We will have to work out our differences on the road, it appears."
We need to get going, fellow Wardens. There's a lot of work in the Greenbelt that needs to be done.
Noriel tosses her hair back with her right hand in a flutter, putting her left hand on her hip and giving the men a wildly enticing smirk. In a sweet seductive voice, she says:
”Capable I may be, and as beautiful as a thistle, I carry no thorns, at least none you should worry of. But with such brave men it only polite to give fair ladies there protection. …Muah….”
She blows a kiss towards all the men and a sweeping foray with her hands as she winks to them all.
”Well, dear boys you need to stop staring at the lovely ladies here and let’s get a move on, put a little step in your movement.”
Noriel watches the group as they head on towards the settlement a massive 3 day travel. She of course was reminiscing on the fact that the men would stop and stare, as she loved the attention. Perhaps the attention was a desire thrust down upon her by her mother a Master Slaver, and an owner of the Brothel of Lust, in Undercity.
Along the travel, Noriel was watching the group more than the road, sadly she wasn’t really thinking about combat or the men in the group, but contemplating all the things going on through her own mind, past situations. Concerned about her mother especially along with what would happen if she was to be caught and returned to her mother, the punishment that would ensue.
”If I ever returned there would be a good chance that I would be sold into sex slavery while men normally would be killed. It’s unlikely that I would ever gain my mother’s approval at this rate. Its good that I have gained friends. Would you believe it friends with an elf, now this is a story to keep for a lifetime. “
When Noriel is in her own mind daydreaming with thoughts crossing her mind, her hair start lifting slightly off her shoulders and floats. She does not even seem to acknowledge her floating hair as they ride on to their first day stop.
Rhasadilara leads the party in a more-or-less direct route, ranging to the sides to watch for threats that might be a concern as they proceed.
Jirani smiles at Noriel's antic but pauses some as she, again, draws such stark attention to a rather conservative notion of men as constantly...attentive...to those of the female persuasion. Stories there perhaps...no matter she is as she is....
On the road Jirani attends his tasks as best he can and gives time each day for his ritual practice.