"Belhaim?"
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"We have a choice to back out but we are not going to. Our people need the flame for their safety."
Tamora paces about, shaking her head and nodding.
"A dragon and a lesser god as our enemy. We will need allies."
The faithful of Sarenrae stares at nothing.
"One trial to next. No rest for the good and wicked it seems."
She gazes back at Kassen.
"How far ahead are the thieves?"
"How far ahead?" Kassen looks into the distance for a second then back at you. "Time is hard to keep track when you are dead. I can tell you that they got here at the same time as the other one with the broken mind on the first floor." Kassen point to where Asar fell. "Careful about this one. As I am tied to the positive amulet, he is tied to the other one. As long as it is not suppressed, he will be able to reform where ever it is."
He then points to the gear left on the ground where you defeated Asar and then to the priest. "They had stuff that might be useful for you, if not now, maybe later as you gather allies. Also, allow me to help you on your journey." He turns toward one of the sarcophagus and focus for a moment. The lid on it slowly start moving to its side and then gently lower to the floor. "You will find some magical treasure in there. You may have it with my blessing."
Longsword +1
Chainmail +1
chainmail, masterwork Morningstar, backpack, grappling hook, iron unholy symbol, rope, sunrods (2), tindertwigs (2), 195 gp
Bag of Holding (Type 1)
Elemental Gem (water)
Tamora drinks from the container when she heard that it only works within the crypt.
"We will worry about the mercenary captain if he rises again. If you know any ways of suppressing his amulet, please tell us if we have to deal with him again. Thank you for the items. I think they would be helpful in our future endeavor."
Tamora bows.
"So a week's lead? It would be already too late for us to contest them or intercept their route for the flame. They might be in the process of preparing for the ritual. Pray that they don't complete it until we arrive there."
She picks up the gem and the morning star.
"Of course after we dropped off our companions and Roldare whose severe mental state is beyond my ability to restore."
The inquisitor narrows her eyes.
"I will also need to rebuke the mayor about his approach to the quest. Trying to save lives from the shadows by making every trial laughable before the volunteers face it is noble and admirable but he could only maintain the farce until his plan backfire and result in serious consequences. He needs to accept that it is better to stop interfering and trust own people to accomplish the quest on their own. Look at how far we came and how much we achieved."
Hoga examines the items. He doesn't want the armor or sword, but they're clearly valuable.
"The only way to prevent him from rising again is to bring back both amulet here. And he will get stronger as time passes." He sighs and looks around a bit. "If only I could join you in this task. See the world once more. Alas, my time is past. Yours, however, is just starting. Do not worry about the week of head start too much. It will take way more than that to accomplish what they want. I would say that they need some a month or two just to get the items ready. Then, they need to start small. Bringing forth small creatures from the Dark Tapestry first and then to the bigger stuff. I'm confident that you will be able to stop them."
"I am about to offer you to come with us. That is unfortunate. It would be great to have you on board if you able to join us to stop your rival."
Tamora looks down at her flask.
"A few more questions before we go. Does your rival have any weakness we could exploit to make our incoming fights with him easier? Another issue arise when we are making our way to this chamber. Our companions might have contact zombie rot. Can your magic or the waters remove the affliction?
Kakrish rummages through the items. "Hey, I want this bag. Anyone care?" He also grabs the sunrods and tindertwigs. Then he finds the chainmail. "Wow! Now this is nice." He quickly removes the scale mail he is wearing and puts on the chain. "This fits nicely!"
While Tamora is still talking to the ghost Kakrish grabs a few of the gold coins and walks over to the group. He interrupts Tamora, "Hey, thanks for helping us. Here. Why don't you take some of this for your trouble?" He holds out his hands with the coins in it.
Help yourself, friend. Looks good. Don't see anything I'm crazy about, though the proceeds from the sale of some of these items will be of use.
"Weakness? Aside from being now an undead creature? He's a good fighter that prefers melee over ranged combat. So, if you can, keep your distance or at least keep him moving." When Kakrish interrupts, Kassen just look at the dwarf for a second and then laugh. "You have quite a talent there for breaking the tension. don't lose that. It will make the task at hand easier to bear. Thanks for the gold, but I don't need it anymore." Turning back to Tamora. "Yes, the water should heal that."
Tamora chuckles.
"Indeed."
She dismisses the dwarf with a wave of her hand.
"You should hold on to that until we divide the gold we gained from selling all the equipment that we don't need."
Tamora pauses and nods.
"Ah, I almost forgot ask you about this earlier but if you can tell us what you know about the cult of Aeterperax; strengths, composition of their agents, tactics and pivotal figures we need to watch for, we can deal with them prepared. Otherwise, it would be fine to narrate to us what you have seen before our arrival. Like who is the most dangerous person in the group that was sent to steal the everflame; description, personality abilities, etc. Next to the skeletal champion we fought. I assume your rival has a name?"
After Kassen answers...
"I see. I think that's all. Let's go retrieve our companions and make a stop at home. It's a pleasure to meet with you but it is time we move on before we lost our drive in this serenity."
"It's a cult worshipping a dragon and an outer god. You can expect all types of followers. What came here were some humans with undeads. There was also something big and powerful that broke down the main doors, but since it never step foot inside, I don't know what it is. The one tied to the amulet is called Asar."
" Before the cult showed up to claim the Everflame, a group of orcs were using this place as a base of operation. They lived here for some time. Some other group got here and a fight started outside. Then the human came running with the orcs. Trying to block the crypts access to the undeads outside. But the powerful creature destroyed the doors and the undead came pouring in. Then you showed up, and cleansed the crypt. That's pretty all I know of what happended here. Now, like you said, it is time you head back and prepare for the next step of your journey. May the gods protect you."
Tamora gathers her companions and left the crypt for town.
Seeing that you are done with the questions, Kassen fade out and leaves you alone in the room. You slowly return to the others and gather your things and some provision for the storage for the trip back. Then you all proceed to drink from the fountain, healing any wounds you had and remove any afflictions. Roldare as a bit of a panic attack when you try to make him pass the main door of the crypt, but you manage to reassure him. But still, he spends a lot of time watching the skies until you reach the cover of the forest.
The trip home is a sober one. You can't help but feeling a bit guilty of not bringing back the Everflame. But then, you can't bring back what wasn't there. After a few days, you finally reach the village. At first some of the villagers that spot you start cheering, but then people start noticing that you are not carrying the Everflame. As you reach the town square, there a small crowd gathered there to learn about what happened. Captain Wisslo manages to find his way to the crowd and approached you. A sign of relief passes on his face when he sees you unarmed and with Roldare. He heads to see his missing guard and helps him to the temple. As he passes next to you, he thanks you for honoring your word.
Moments later, the people parts to the Mayor and the head priest pass. They look at you and then to each other, but before you can speak, the Mayor points to the Great hall. "I guess there is much to talk about. If you would follow us. Let us at least get comfortable before we do. You just travel a long distance and I'm sure some of you would like to get the dust of the road off and drink some water before we do." With that, he turns to the Great hall and start walking. Father Prasst looks at you and smile a bit. "Come inside and get cleaned up. Then everyone will be ready to listen to what you have to say." He looks at all of you, but you can feel that his words are more meant for Tamora personally.
"Yes."
Tamora follows the father and rejuvenates herself with a bath. Cloth in a new set of robes, she sets to the Great Hall with the others to fill their stomach. When there are only half-fill cups remaining, the inquisitor holds up her hands to quiet the crowd that is starting to get impatient.
"Where to start? Ah, yes. The journey went well at first. We faced orcs, undead and the iconic crypt golem. There were traps and locked doors everywhere. As we lacked a rogue, we had used our wits to conquer them. It was a real trial."
As she says this, she levels her cool gaze on the mayor, daring him to interpose.
"Just as we almost cleared the first floor, from there on out, it took a darker turn. We found Roldare, mentally traumatized by what he had seen and survived. And eventually, we discovered the flame stolen by a cult in the deeper level after a major battle. A cult of the slain black dragon Aeteperax no less. That was responsible for everything that happened; the setup for our test, the uprising of the risen dead and theft of the flame to revive the dragon and unleash his master, Nyarlathotep, an outer god into the world."
Still maintaining her eye contact with the blond hair and fair face bearded man, Tamora's gaze is filled sternness, disapproval and indignation.
"All of this caused by your oversight, Mayor Uptal. Your machination backfired. Hence, you had no choice but to select trained volunteers such as ourselves to complete the quest for the flame. Yet, it ended in failure because your earlier actions incurred dire consequences that you cannot erase easily. What machination you ask?"
She points at the Mayor while switching her gaze between the mayor and the people assembled.
"This man who had seen and feared the pyrrhic cost of the tradition, decided to modified the quest, lowering its difficulty in secret. Every everflame quest while he is in office, he hired mercenaries accompanied by one of our guards to clear the crypt of enemies a week earlier so that when the main group doing the quest could complete it without having to lose their lives. That was a noble action, saving lives from the shadows."
Tamora pauses to take a breathe.
"To be honest, when I found out, I was a little angry. It cheapens the notion of the quest and deprive any sense of achievement and honor. I rather bet my life to bring back the flame than being spooned the flame. Were the circumstances different, I would have felt cheated, disgusted and left. I do not know what my companions would have felt. I cannot speak for them other than myself. But I know for certain that to deny them of any challenge would sour them. From what I heard from Roldare, if the quest progresses normally, the only obstacles in our path would be locked doors. That would proved hardly a challenge let alone a quest. It would be comparable to a short errand or obligation for preservation."
She finishes her beverage and faces the crowd.
"I seem to gone overboard with my explanation and off-topic with my criticism. I should have kept it shorter. My apologies."
Tamora turns back to the mayor with the same intensity and zeal in her gaze earlier.
"Now back to the main concern. As I was saying, your ignorance brought about the potential awakening of two evils. You told us that you had execute this plan many times. Judging by your tone, it came to me that you had grew complacent, thinking that every four years is the same. When you acted on something thoughtless and irresponsible, I do have the right to judge you. Had you paid attention, this would not had happened. You are fortunate that we still have time to act before it come to fruition. Look at what you have wrought. The hired group was slaughtered. Roldare is scarred. You damned the everflame to evil who will used it for their nefarious purpose. You endanger not only our town but all life. What were you thinking?!!!"
The half orc is silent, but listens closely for an answer.
The Great hall falls silent as people listen to Tamora's words. you can see the result of shock and surprise on people's faces as she explains what was going on. Then went she did, all eyes turn toward the Mayor. He looks around the room and then stand. "The decision I took over the years as Mayor of the town were always with the intention of saving the most people's lives with the information that I had. Never have I expected that this situation could be a possibility. Knowing that then, I might have acted differently, but one cannot change the past. The gods saw to it that this year we had a group that could correct the situation, and for that I am thankful." He points to the group sitting with Tamora.
"Now, about my transgression of the past, I offer my resignation from the office of Mayor immediately and will assist the council during the transition until a new Mayor is chosen. I have abused the trust of my office and see now that by doing so, I've endangered more than a few people. If the gods are willing, I hope to at least be able to provide any assistance I can to help correct the situation." With that, he turns to Father Prasst and hand him the badge of office. "I will retire to my house for now. If there is more for me to do to atone for this, you can find me there."
He then walks out of the Great hall. People all over the place start talking all at once. Some asking questions, others trying to understand what just happened. Some friend and allies of the Mayor argue with those that were often against him. The Great Hall is in complete chaos except for one man. Father Prasst who is just sitting in his chair, looking at Tamora and waiting for her next move.
When Tamora begins her speech Kakrish stands up with a raised mug. When she gets to the first pause in her speech Kakrish starts to say something but she continues before he can start. Then at the next pause he tries again, to no avail. Slowly the content of her speech dawns on him and he realizes that a toast might not be the best thing. He sits back down to listen through the rest.
Then the mayor stands to give his statement. When he's done and walking out the door, Kakrish stands and cheers, raising his glass, "Three cheers for the mayor!" But his attempt at toasting the mayor are overcome by the turmoil of the crowd.
Tamora rears her head as if surprised by the mayor's resignation and departure. She snaps back to reality as she surveys the chaos erupted by her and the departed mayor's speech.
"Silence!"
When the room turns to her, she unclenches her hands that are balled up into whiten fists, returning to their usual reddish hue.
"Let me ask you a question. This is not only direct to those with or against the mayor but everyone in the room. Why do YOU think the mayor acted on his motive?
"Is he truly at fault for what he did?"
Those near Kakrish looks at him as he calls for cheers. Most just stand there with their mouth open, not sure if the dwarf is being serious or joking. When Tamora asks for silence, the town folk quickly falls silent and look at the young inquisitor. Some try to answer Tamora's question.
"He was trying to protect people..."
"He interfered with the Tradition..."
"He cheated!!"
"He's a good man...
Tamora can ear many more answers from a room that is clearly divided on the subject. When she asks the last question, most people refrain from answering, realising that there is no easy answer to that one. Then one man stands up and look at Tamora. "He is at fault, but not for having interfered with the Tradition. This thing of having to ask for volunteer to gather the Everflame and bring it back here is utterly stupid. We should have a maned garrison over at the crypt. Defend the place with well trained guards. The Everflame is a powerful artifact that belongs to this village. Not some test of coming of age that we should toy with. By your own story, if we had maintained a strong force there, we wouldn't be in this situation. The enemies would have been pushed back and the Everflame would be in the temple as we speak."
You recognize the man as Colbin Vetnar, the Guildmaster of the woodcutter's guild. He was always a powerful voice against the mayor and the two often argued about what direction the town expands. Once he is done talking, you notice a good part of the people there are starting to lean toward his opinion.
You be sure to do that, the half orc interjects, If we ever get it back.
Tamora smiles as she shakes her head at the protests. When Colbin articulates his opinion, her smile is fuller.
"My thoughts are similar yet different. I do agree that the tradition is unnecessary at the current time. At the same time it shan't be abolished since it survived up from its conceptualization to now and had become our part of our culture. If the old tradition cannot keep up with time, change it. Some adjustments maybe toning down the requirements and expectations."
She puts a hand on her chin.
"As for setting up defenses around the crypt, I can see it working in the short run until a viable alternative can be found. However, from my limited experience, I've seen some monstrosities in the temple that could take down troops easily. You will need more than trained guards to deal with them. I recommend some priests and mages to go along with the guards. But that is almost impossible."
The inquisitor extends a finger to the crowd.
"Which brings me back to the first question and the second question I asked. To be frank, my questions encouraged contemplation and I was hoping for some moderate answers like Corbin here or for you to figure the root cause for the mayor's action."
She wags her finger as if she was scolding a child.
"The mayor cheated and interfered with tradition? Yes. He was good and trying to protect people? Yes. But why? If you had asked and listen to those who know more like Father Prasst or Captain Wisslo, you will find the answer in their stories and you probably would have figured it out on your own. No, the mayor did all of that because most of you are untrained and unable protect yourselves properly. Was he at fault for that? Partly. He made a major bad decision. Had he made the decision to trained his people into capable warriors, mages and priests, there would be a difference and incidents like these could be avoided."
Tamora gestures to herself and her companions.
"Look at us. We are proof that a trained group can all returned alive and healthy. With the flame granted if it was not stolen."
She shakes her head.
"If the mayor wasn't that doubting and actually listen to his people. I feel that this is one of his flaw that caused him to take matters into his own hands. Then again, the people should share the blame for this miscommunication. Had they spoke up, questioned, protested or state their opinion the tradition at the time when the mayor took office maybe they could had altered his decision. But what should come to pass had passed. What's done is done. We can only change for the better. I believe we have identified the two things that needs to be address; namely tradition and training our people. Tradition because it is unhealthy for some of us and training our people because there are only a few of us who can defend the town and we want to make sure the occurrence of the flame being stolen is less likely to happen in the future."
Tamora turns to Father Prasst and the council.
"What are your thoughts on this? Should there be a change?"
Father Prasst stands as the crowd turn toward him. He takes his time to smooth out his robe and clear his throat. He is letting the tension in the room increase a bit as if he wants people to realise the importance of what is going on. "Time changes and only a fool or a dead man doesn't adjust to that change. This village was founded by a company leader and most of his men. They had a martial tradition that over the years was slowly lost. The test of the Everflame was to keep the people of this village trained in the ways of fighting and ready to defend this place. Sadly, this didn't last as either the people that did the test left to live other adventures or settle back into a simpler life."
"The Mayor was right in the fact the we didn't have the people always needed to go on the test. The ones that want to overcome the challenge and better themselves. For a long while, the test was seen as nothing more than a joyful camping trip to the burial place of our ancestors. If this village was attacked by raiders or even goblins, the death toll would be devastating. I say we start training. Make sure that everyone here is able to wield a weapon, whether it is steel or magic. Let's bring back the reputation that this place had ages ago. That we are a people that not only can defend itself, but that we can get back what is taken from us. Starting with the Everflame."
Colbin Vetnar stands back up and look at Father Prasst. "This is all well and everything, but who will do the training? Bringing weapon master here will cost money. Also, the time taken to train will reduce the amount of work people can do. Our village's economy will suffer from it. It will also take time to do all this. What if that evil that stole the Everflame decide to come back here? Are we going to be ready in time? hiring a company of mercenary to fortify the crypt and guard it would be faster. They could patrol the region and clear all possible threats. The loot they will gather would be mostly spent here. This would be way better for our economy and faster."
The crowd starts again to talk. You can hear concerns and fears being voiced as people are starting to doubt what direction to take. Father Prasst just lift up his arms, asking for the room to quiet down again. "We don't need to bring trainers here. And hiring mercenary would just restart the cycle all over again. No, the change needs to come from ourselves. I may not look it now, but in my younger years I was in the military, defending this country. I could train some of you to be divine warriors. Captain Wisslo can train other in sword skills. Also, looking at our young group over there, I think some of them have seen enough of the wild and could train people with what they learned so far."
With that, Taladrius and Garrik stand. "We will help with the training and protecting the village if the ennemy returns." Red-Raven looks at the rest of the group and at the crowd, obliviously thorn between the two he finally stand. "This one will stay also." Father Prasst looks back at Colbin with a smile. For a moment, Colbin looks like he will say something more be then sit back down. Father Prasst look back at Tamora. "So it is decided, half the group will stay and prepare the townsfolk should the evil decide to return. And the other half will go looking for the Everflame and bring it back safely home."
Tamora smiles as Father Prasst and her companions said what she is going to say.
"My thoughts exactly. Leave the flame to us. We made a promise to the founder to clean up Mayor Uptal's mess. Speaking of the mayor..."
Tamora looks at the badge in Father Prasst's hand.
"We need a person to run things now that Mayor Uptal retired his spot. Father Prasst, are you going to assume the mantle, elect a new one or do we convince the former mayor to take back his post?"
"We'll discuss this later, for now, I'll invite everyone to head home. Try to rest and think of the future you want for this community. Tomorrow, we will look into writing a new future for our town." The people slowly leave the Great hall. You hear some people voicing concerns, others sounding more hope full.
Once everyone is out except Father Prasst and the group, he walks over to your table. Putting the badge of office on the table, Father Prasst looks at you. "The Mayor situation is somewhat complicated. By resigning like he did in front of so many witnesses, we can't, legally, reinstate him. We will need to go into an election. With the crisis we have on our hands, an election would just make things more chaotic. I'd say, let the Council run thing for now, and when you come back with the Everflame, we should look into refilling that position."
He looks unsure for a moment and looks at each of you in the eyes. "I know you are capable people, but with just the three of you out there, it might be dangerous. I suggest you look for some allies. Other resourceful people to join you on your quest. And please be careful, this place needs people to look up to for future generations. Our last hero was the founder. We could use more, but not martyrs." With that, he nods at you and towards the exit, leaving the badge on the table.
"We understand. Thank you for your concern, esteemed father."
As the priest is leaving, Tamora turns to Kakrish and Hoga.
"We should turn in for the night as well. We have a long journey ahead of us tomorrow."
With that, she departs to her uncle's ranch.
The group wakes up the next morning. Unsure of what the road ahead will offer, they start packing and walk toward the river. Once there, they manage to get on board of a river boat that was heading in the right direction. The travel is peaceful and you all get lost in your though, looking at the scenery past before you. You know that winter will soon be there, and that the village needs the Everflame, but for now, you can't help but admiring the beauty of the forest passing in front of you.
The trip last five days and when you finally disembark at Belhaim, you feel tired, but still ready to face the challenges ahead. Since the sun is about to set, you ask the townsfolk for the closest inn. They point you to The Wise Piper . Number 4 on the map. As you enter the inn a young woman greets you with a smile. She guides you to a table as she mentions the special of the day. Once you are seated, she heads back to the kitchen to get your meal. As you wait at the table, you look around the room. It's a standard looking common room. There's a spot for a bard or minstrel for entertaining, but no one is there at the moment. The only other patrons in the inn right now are a half-elf and a hobgoblin sitting at the same table a bit further out.
The innkeeper finally comes back out with your food and drinks. She expertly lays them down on the table. "There ya go folks. Some nice fish stew to warm ya up and drinks to wash it down. The name is Talia Orem. What brings ya to our fine town if ya don't mind me asking?" She looks genuinely interested in what you have to say and you sense no bad intentions from her.
The half elf at the other table seems to be sizing up the new group between spoonfuls of stew as them come in, noting armor and weapons and other gear and how they are cared for. He is not being overly obvious but an observant person would certainly pick it up. He talks quietly with his companion.
Kyzen also noticed the party entering the inn. Drinking is ale and quietly talking with his companion, he greets them with a simple nod and smile as they sit down at the table and pursuit his conversation with Kyras.
"Thank you, Talim. Your fish stew smells lovely. Just what we need after an arduous day of hustling. You can call me Tamora. I am an enforcer of Sarenrae's will."
Tamora gestures at the half-orc and dwarf.
"And accompanying me are my two companions, Hoga and Kakrish."
She takes a spoonful and pause as she swallows the content.
"As for why we are here, a cult dedicated to Aeterperax had made off with something important to our town. We tracked them here but we don't where to go next. We might enlist the help or hire an investigator for this. Have you heard anything about these bunch?"
The half elf's ear perk up as he hears the woman's word. [Enforcer of Sarenrae? She has enforcers? he wonders before hearing another god's name. If their cult is active here the entire town could be in danger. he thinks to himself.
he makes a gesture of waiting to the hobgoblin at the table with him and continues to listen, for now.
Kakrish dives into the fish stew, not noticing the debris he leaves in his beard as he slurps down the tasty meal. When Tamora introduces him he nods at the innkeeper. Off to the side he notices the half-elf and hobgoblin. "So who are those guys?" he says to Hoga.
Talim's smiles at Tamora's compliment about the stew. "A follower of Sarenrae? We don't see those around here often. We mostly have Abadarans, Shelynites and follower of the Green faith here." She nods as you introduce Hoga and Kakrish. "A cult to Aeterperax? That's an old name. If I remember correctly, that's been part of the story of the founding of this town. Maybe Bessy could mention more about that. She's kinda of our town historian."
She looks at Kakrish as he asks his question, then look over her shoulder at the other two patrons. "Them? They got here with the last supply caravan. They are waiting for the next job opportunity from what I understand." She stands up and replaces the chair. "Well, if ya need anything else, just let me know. I got to go clean a bit in the kitchen for now"
Cult of Aeterperax is a small group that appears in the region once in a while. Aeterperax was a great dragon that terrorized the region centuries ago, until it got slain. The cult's main goal is to raise him back, but so far they never got even close to having the power to do so.
From that roll, or perhaps another like History or Arcana what might Kyres know of the actual dragon. Looking for Age, color, and disposition in general. Was he of an evil bent or perhaps a metallic? Sounds evil he terrorized. Also what do the histories say about how he was slain and who did the slaying?
Well those are not so stellar rolls. lol
The events happened during the Age of Enthronement. So the story is not as precise as it should be with lots of romancing. What was confirmed, is that he was slain by Tula Belhaim. Also, according to most stories and painting, it was a black dragon.
"Job? Hah. We've got a job." Kakrish stands up, knocking over his chair. "Hey, let's go ask those guys if they want to help us." He directs his question at Tamora and Hoga.
We could use some help. This is all new ground to me.
Tamora nods.
"This cannot be accomplished with just us three."
She calls Talim and orders another drink before making her way towards the duo's table with two mugs in hand, one which is her untouched drink. She greets them with a smile, taking a seat and sets the two mugs down near their bowls.
"Good evening, gentlemen. Talim told us that you are looking for a job. I am wondering if you are interested in aiding us in locating the cult and combating them?"
Kyras stands to greet the newcomer. And good evening to you Miss. He offers his hand in formal greeting. I am Kyras Darksoul and my companion is known by Kyzen. His posture and tone seem perfect for the introduction, even taking into account the time of day and the local customs. It is true we are looking for an opportunity that could benefit from our skill sets. Would you and you friends care to join us to discuss your venture? I feel confident that we could be of help.
Just as Kyras finishes his sentence, Kyzen looks at Tamora, smiles as he grabs the mug and says "Thanks... A drink is always a good way to start a friendship!"
Tamora accepts the hand and shakes it while retaining eye contact and expression with both patrons that she greeted. She then ushers the half-orc and the dwarf to come over to the duo's table. Once they are all seated, she gestures to herself and the two fighters.
"Please call me Tamora. I am a healer by trade. With me are Hoga and Kakrish, capable fighters of their own right. Before we begin our story, can you tell us the skills you possess?"
Kyras pulls a chair out for Tamora with a flourish and offers It is a pleasure to meet you lady Tamora. He sits back down after Tamora does and takes a sip from his drink while waiting for the others to join the table.
You ask for a resume? Well I suppose I can talk about myself a little, but then I must hear more about this dragon cult. I am Taldorian by birth and until recently a resident of the great city of Cassomir, where I received classical training as an investigator and graduated with honors from the royal academy of of that esteemed city. I am well versed in all things academic to include arcana, engineering, dungeoneering, geography, history, nature planes, religion, and spellcraft. I speak 7 languages and have studied the science of linguistics as well. And I am an aspiring alchemist who can create my own alchemicals given proper equipment and time. I an older than I look and have a "breadth of experience" in the more mundane occupations of man. Add to that my training in rhetoric which I find allows me to be quite persuasive when I need to be. I am quick to pick up on when I am being lied to and can certainly hold my own in a fight. Oh, and I am quite observant and handy with a set of lock picks as well. Kyres breaths in in an exaggetated fashion and adds with a smile There, you now know more about me that I am sure you wish to.
While Kyras and Tamora exchange greetings and Kyras presents himself, Kyzen finished his drinks. The ones not knowing him may think he drinks quickly, but that's just his way... and he can surely hold his own with alcohol... As Kakrish and Hoga join in and sits at the table.
"Nice to meet you all! As for me it's quite simple, I come from the Five King Mountains and came here for some work and adventures. I may not be as knowledgeable and chatty as my companion here, but I have a special connection with earth and can hold my own in a ranged fight. I'm a team player and will do anything for a friend"...
Calling Talim to order another round
"Please Talim, could you be so nice to bring us all another round of your finest ale! All this talk makes me thirsty"
He then turn back to the party and add
"Now, let’s talk more about this dragon cult…"
Many people might be surprised to see a hobgoblin mingling with others in an inn like this. Then again, a half orc is not so welcome in certain places, either. What you look like doesn't say all that much about who you are, in Hoga's experience.
He brings his mug, and addresses Talim, handing her 3 silver. Make it a couple of pitchers, friend. We'll pour our own for a bit.
He walks up and introduces himself. Hi, gents. I'm Hoga. I mostly swing an axe, as you can see. My friends here are good at what they do, too, but, three isn't always enough. We could use some more hands for what we're up against, now. We scarcely know where to begin.
Kakrish makes his way over to the newcomers as well. "Wow! You sure do talk a lot!" Kakrish exclaims when Kyras finishes his long introduction. "As she said, I'm Kakrish."