Sytheria looked at the stone crafted village, her thoughts inward on her task. These brutes should prove most useful in distraction, and when all was done the lands would lay in chaos. She permitted herself a brief moment to allow her mind to visualize that chaos, the humans in the neighboring cities crying for aid, their bodies being crushed by these creatures of the mountain. Stone giants were definitely a dull blade, but at least a dull blade with the necessary force. She stretched her leathery wings, leapt from her perch and glided into the settlement. Most of the giants slumbered, unaware of the changes already in motion or of the agreements their chieftain had made. Surely these monsters would not be pleased to know the truth of it all, or the hand that lead their new course. They were not evil beings by nature, but their allegiance could so easily be swayed.
She landed silently at the centermost structure, coiling her wings about her in the way a human would wear a cloak; Sytheria wore little in the way of garments. Truth be told, she much enjoyed the discomfort her nudeness caused in those she had dealings with. Mytgore sat in his throne, his massive form intimidating to even those of his clan. After all it was fear of him that kept him in control of the clan. He ruled absolute. His hand caressed the steel blade at his side. What a gift it was; his own smiths had not yet mastered such fine craft, but he would ensure it was something they would learn. They would take the human settlements and purge their kind from these lands. The dwarves had always stopped his people from venturing out of the mountain, but now those halls had gone silent. The dwarves had sealed their doors to the outside a clear sign of the promise that was made.
“The dwarves are at war in their halls,” The soft feminine voice interrupted Mytgores’ thoughts. How long had she been there? “Now is the time to strike.” Mytgore scowled at the being, abyssal by nature, spawned from some demon. Her unnatural beauty, wings, and the small horns protruding from her forehead gave all this away; but still, he did not like her tone.
“I lead my people, demon!” he barked, and to his pleasure she seemed to step back from him, intimidated. “And I have your word that the dwarves will be forever silent in their halls?”
Sytheria gave a slight bow to the chieftain, “Indeed” her mind filled with thoughts of taking this one’s life…slowly…but quickly she came back to the game at hand. “My master has one final gift for you mighty Chieftain.” She pulled a slender steel wand from within her cloak. Mytgore caught the slight form of her wing.
“A rod?” the Chieftain stood, anger clearly in his voice, “And what is mighty Mytgore to do with a rod?!”
Sytheria sighed; she had to remind herself that these people lacked intelligence. “Yes, a rod, but a rod with great power.” She held the rod out to the chieftain, “Once I have taught you how to activate its power you will be able to harness the fury of the storms with but a word!” The chieftain sat back down his mind contemplating those words; harness the storms’ fury? How is that possible?
As if reading the chieftains mind, Sytheria said “These kinds of magic have been kept from you, selfishly, by the dwarves and humans. No longer shall you be denied that which is rightfully yours.”
“We shall crush their bones with stone and steel! Hernos!” he bellowed and a large stone giant stepped before the chieftain and bowed, ignoring the small female. “Assemble the war council; we begin our campaign at dawn!” Hernos exited the room barking orders and closing the doors behind him. Sytheria smiled, bowing before the chieftain. “I shall let my master know everything is going as
planned.”
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Captain Grines looked at his soldiers some of them bore fresh faces, new recruits he thought, a fitting duty for them to escort trade caravans. He mounted his horse and brought it about to the group, “This is a regular trip men” he looked out over the small caravan, “We shall escort them through the pass and back again when the trades are done. Ready your gear. We leave just after the suns rise.”
The soldiers prepared all the gear, mounted their respective horses and took up positions around the caravan. At Captain Grines’ order they moved out of the city and began their trek through the mountain pass.
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Graf looked down at the caravan, the Bugbear grinned, just a few more hours and they would stop to rest in the pass. It was a commonly used resting area for large caravans. The mountain side had been carved into the mountain to provide an overhang granting protection from the weather. Fog was a common occurrence here, being located on a narrow peninsula, it always got thicker in the evening hours. That was Grafs’ time; when he would begin his torment of those camped there. He would let their minds fill with whatever fears he could muster in them. It was that fear of the night that kept him here in this mountain range; the Humans were so prone to it. On a good night the fear was almost tangible, in some cases it would become so thick in the air to almost drive Graf out of his shadows to strike them down. But Graf was no fool, he couldn’t take on that many armed men, but if fear could cause any of them to flee the camp they were his.
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Captain Grines lead the caravan through the pass the fog thick; limiting vision to only fifty feet. He heard the deep laugh first, and then as the fog seemed to part he saw the tall figure standing in the road. He knew its type, a stone giant, but this one was different; it was armed with a large bastard sword in its right hand obviously crafted for the creature and its left held a slender metallic rod. Grines held up his hand halting the caravan and signaling his soldiers to form up behind him, “Make way giant and allow this caravan to pass.” He knew enough of these giants to know they were not always hostile, “Allow us safe passage and blood need not be shed today.”
The giant grinned; “Frezzak!” was the only thing the giant said as it pointed the wand at the group. The flash was blinding and the sensation was none like the captain had felt before. It was as if the sky had struck him down, when the daze faded he found himself on the ground his horse smoldering and his senses quickly came about as the moans of his soldiers echoed in the pass. Grines slowly lifted himself up to take in the scene, his soldiers almost all of them dead having suffered the same fate as his horse, the tradesmen either dead, dying or fleeing into the fog. He felt the footsteps more than heard; as he turned he saw the hulking giant weapon in hand standing before him, “Now is our time human,” it grinned, “Your ilk will be wiped from these lands.” The giant’s blade swept down and Captain Grines saw only darkness.
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Graf watched the whole scene play out. What were the stone giants doing here? They never ventured this low into the pass. He looked to the few survivors fleeing into the fog and his mind went to them. He could already smell their fear, it enticed him as it filled his nostrils; it may be time to leave these lands he thought to himself, but first it’s time for some fun.
UU strides down the gangplank, happy to be on land again. No matter how much she enjoyed boats and the ocean, this trip had begun to feel like a prison sentence. She glances back at her old professor and good-naturedly says, "Come'on, Doc! Let's go find this inn. I could use something to drink... and so could you. You've been too scholarly on this trip."
During the journey Crystal watches everything and seemingly every one. When she is not about deck watching the crew go about their business, she is in the hold seeing to the pairs horses. Both brushing them down as well as humming soft tuns to them.
Around Sir Aeldris Caresti, Crystal becomes as if the man's shadow. Her eyes always lowered, her hands clasped before her. She does not speak unless asked a question first by the Elvish Noble and always she seems ready to do the simplest tasks for him almost unbidden.
Upon the ship's arrival at Drokara, Crystal watches over the unloading of the horses. Though she hovers about the edge of the proceedings allowing the competent crew to make their own way in the matter. The listens solemnly and intently to Mirak's council and when ready sets off towards the Sea Spirit Inn, calmly leading her horse through the throng and jostling press of the town's crowds.
Aeldris introduces himself to the others as an elf looking to explore foreign lands. If anyone inquires about the high quality of his gear, he merely notes that the elves have many fine craftsmen.
Aeldris is fairly reclusive during the journey; most of his time on deck is spent observing the waves, clouds, or stars. His occasional attempts to start up a conversation with Crystal rarely get far. Used to performing most tasks himself, Crystal's constant assistance leaves him at a loss for things to do. Every few days, when alone in his cabin, he contacts Lord Sareth via the twilight mirror, letting him know that the journey is proceeding as planned.
Upon disembarking, he takes one look at the filthy dockside streets and mounts Tethis. Where Kelsinko was mildly distasteful, he cannot help but wrinkle his nose at the stench of the human city. Hopefully this inn is of decent quality. he thinks as he makes his way through the crowds.
Ardil chuckles looking up at the Sea Spirit Inn sign. He chatters on in an uncharacteristically upbeat and excited manner.
"This looks like a place that could be fun. I think I'd like to explore these mountains a bit, wouldn't you Avala? I wonder if we could find these dwarves that everyone seems so excited about. I bet this dwarven ale would bring a pretty penny back in Minkrath... and it would be an adventure I could tell stories about forever! Terial has protected us on this voyage and he will lead us to great things. I hope you are as excited as I am! Let's go find someone who knows their way around here and maybe some companions for the road."
He walks straight up to the Inn, taking a moment holding the door to let Avala (and any other ladies that may be entering or exiting) go first.
** spoiler omitted **...
The sea is calming to the Professor, his mind given time to turn over the recent death of his friend. He spends most of his time writing and keeping track of the behaviors of the other members of the party. When Udaya leaves, he takes note of the tavern she will be at and begins to gather his things.
"Udaya, a drink does sound delightful. But please, keep your wits about you, something is still amiss."
Udaya gives him a sour look, "Doc, how many times do I have to tell you to call me 'UU' or 'Legs' or even 'Biscuit'. And, second, I don't get drunk very often... but if you call me Udaya or Miss Udas one more time, I will."
DM I definitely would have spent time on the ship poring over that book. Expect my character to do ALOT of writing, scribing, scribbling, tracing, copying, translating, editing, and obfuscating.
Professor Lasch
The Festival of Blades today was outstanding. I could not think of a better send off. Perhaps the planning of this trip was scheduled to tie into this event. The honors for Kalav were equally spectacular, Kergoth was the finest weapons master I’ve had the privilege to witness. His display paid great homage to the craft and showed what dedicated practice can achieve. I think he will go far in the order. Though much of its doings are at a loss to me - after paying my due respects to Trikara and saying my goodbyes to my family; it will be nice if I am able to come home to visit. I have been told the journey will be a long one, but it will be shortened by the Minotaur vessel The Sea Bull; her speed being boosted by magic’s from the priestesses of Trikara.
Today has proven to be a good day for travel, the seas calm and the winds at our back. I am excited to see the Elven lands; I’ve been assured by our Captain that we will be stopping there for a few days. I’ve taken the time to learn select phrases from the ambassadors to be sure not to offend any elf I may come across. I do wish I had spent more time in study for their language but I was advised to be more fluent in other dialects, namely human and draconic. Draconic I thought was an odd request but after having had some correspondence with Yesrin, I am to replace him in his duties, I understand the importance of it. It would seem I will be meeting a Dragon! And I will be the emissary for our people as he was in relations dealing with him. I am truly excited for this mission after having spent my whole life in study it is truly an honor to get out into the world and practice my skills.
I have found it hard to write this, and I do apologize to myself, being at sea. It seems my body does not want to grow accustomed to this method of travel. Had I only seen the place once before I would’ve just shortened the journey with a snap of my fingers. But at least after more than a month at sea we have arrived at Kelsinko. Its beauty is something to behold, though I’m saddened to learn it is only an “outer” city for the elves and regrettable the capital Saldarne is too far inland for us to visit. Though I think I may return her on the trip home and take some time to myself to see the great city. I have sent word to my Uncle of our short stop and apologized for my inability to provide an unknown visit. Some of the dignitaries I’ve spoken with here in Kelsinko tell me he joins the royal court regularly, so it is good to hear that relations with elves are still strong.
The Kra Kingdom, true to dwarven style its walls, security and fortifications appear they will last for an eternity. Their stubborn nature is true to heart and from personally experience I must say you may never find a more loyal friend. I had told Gorn of my coming this way and was excited to see him on the docks waiting. Our stay was short but we did have time for a short tour. Some of the crew came along and shared in the pleasantness of the city. There was an order about everything that seemed peaceful. And the dwarves strict beliefs seemed to go hand in hand with that of the crew; in fact I do believe that do to having a friend here I may have strengthened relations with the dwarves of this city and the crew that regularly makes this trip. Already my skills as a diplomat have proven themselves.
We have been sent below decks, well at least those of us with less fighting experience have. It appears our destination is located in the human kingdom of Furp who is currently warring with their westerly neighbors. I now find myself wishing I had spent more study with sea magic’s, or at least the practiced hand with water activities. We are sailing south of Umari – Furps un-agreeable neighbor – and have been warned that battle may take place with any number of their vessels. Apparently it is a land campaign as well as sea. I must admit I will feel a great relief once we arrive at Drokara and make our way inland to the Seacoast Mountains.
Avala mumbles "thanks" to Ardil, almost as an afterthought, as she passes through the door of the Sea Spirit. Despite her great love of being outdoors, she's looking forward to washing the stink of caravan travel off and having a decent meal.
"Fun indeed! And I have to say, it seems as though you've already developed quite a group of admirers!"
Avala points to a gaggle of "ladies of the evening" gathered on a streetcorner adjacent to the Sea Spirit and eyeing Ardil with great interest.
You four, in a fashion, arrive at the Sea Spirit Inn just as two others share a small banter and witness the duo enter. Looking at the door just above; you see a sign identifying the inn - a foaming mug and a fey like creature appearing to bath in it.
Entering the establishment you see much of the light within is provided through the windows, though a quick examination also reveals several ceiling ‘lamps’ and wall mounts for lanterns. Some of the lanterns already in place and others being tended to by some bar staff, a young boy, roughly in his teens; he seems to be filling them with oil. The main room is about 40’ x 40’, booths are against the walls, and four tables decorate the main floor. Immediately to your front and slightly left is a ‘L’ shaped bar, the short end of the ‘L’ is to your front and just beyond is a door to what you would assume is the kitchen – obvious from the banging pots and pans behind it. To your right and almost centered on the wall is a staircase presumably leading to the upper levels. There are a handful of patrons as it is just about noon, all human, and two girls work the floor as waitresses also human. A tall, 6’3”, a stout older man steps out from behind the bar, a smile breaking his cared for beard; his arms stretch out to either side, “Welcome! Welcome, please come in, please. How may my establishment be of service to you all?” He looks all of you over, “By the Gods an elf!” He blushes, embarrassed at his remark, “Please come in, have a seat, will you be here for the just the meal or do you need rooms?”
Crystal's face gives no indication of the emotions she may be feeling at the Inn-keep's outburst, though she does blush slightly. She awaits Sir Caresti's words upon what their course will be for the evening. While she waits quietly, her eyes pass over the tavern's interior,
There is nothing out of the ordinary about the interior, though with the Innkeeps outburst some of the patrons did turn the party's direction. Though most have already gone back to their afternoon meal at hand.
Flipping through the tome at the Inn, Lasch considers the mystery of Thomas's death.
Hm. Nothing seems terribly amiss here. How puzzling.
Avala enters the bar and walks straight to the proprietor.
“2 rooms and a meal for myself and my brother, if you please (she indicates Ardil). Oh – and a bath!”
"A meal indeed!"
Ardil installs himself at the bar
"And a flagon of fitting ale with it!"
At an opportune time when the barkeep seems to have a free moment, Ardil leans over the bar and asks
"I understand that you're the only place in town that serves that dwarven stuff... so tell me, how do you manage to get your hands on it? From what I hear, the dwarves aren't easy to find."
The Barkeep gives an odd look when the Halfling gestures to the human as being her brother, and quickly recovers his composure, “Indeed, we have multiple types of rooms available. The going rate is one gold a night and this does include the morning meal, or three gold a night for a room that is furnished with its own bath and fresh water! I do have a small stable as well if any of you have animals to be concerned with, their stay is three silver or five if feed is needed.”
Noticing Ardil taking a seat at the bar he moves back behind it, “My name is Jasper owner and proprietor of this establishment. Let me know if I can be of any help.”
In response to Ardils question he nods while retrieving a flagon from behind the bar, “Indeed you heard correctly, in fact we also offer some standard dwarvish meals!” He peers towards the kitchen area, “Gorin is our a cook, a renowned dwarven chef and brewmaster!” At his last word a stout dwarf comes out from the kitchen door, his beard almost reaching the floor and in braids, “Damned straight I am! And don’t ye be fergettin it e’ther!” He looks at you all, stops his gaze on Aeldris then moves on to Ardil, “Bah, don’t be think’n it’s that weak spirits you’re used to lad, it’s got kick!” He laughs and makes his way back to the kitchen grumbling something in dwarven.
Jasper only smiles as the dwarf makes his way back and turns back to Ardil, “He’s not lying lad, many a poor sailor has slept in the alley from it. But if you’re interested it’s a steep gold a pint.” He winks, “May be steep but it’ll knock you on your butt!”
Crystal watches on, taking note of the costs the Inn Keeper mentions. The interactions between the various people do bring a slight smile to her features.
She waits quietly and demurely for Sir Caresti to attract Jasper, the inn-keeper, attention.
As an aside to Crystal, just loud enough that others might hear, Aeldris dryly says, "I did not realize our arrival would be so noteworthy; nor that humans cannot distinguish between one elf and two."
Addressing the barkeep, he says, "My companion and I have just arrived from a lengthy voyage at sea. A meal and baths would be most welcome; we both have horses as well." Pulling out his coin pouch, he counts out seven gold pieces and lays them on the counter. Expensive baths...but well worth it after weeks at sea.
The rooms paid for, he briefly heads outside to settle Tethis in the stables, then returns to the inn and takes a seat near a wall and proceeds to observe the locals.
Jasper graciously accepts the coins, "Jason!", You notice the boy that was filling the lanterns stop his task and rush over, "Tend to this fine gentlemens horses!" With the simple order Jason rushes out the door to tend to the horses.
After Jason departs Jasper turns to one of the waitresses, an attractive red head appearing to be in her young twenties, "Margaret, see to their rooms and their baths." Margaret nods and approaches Aeldris and Crystal, she seems to stare at Aeldris a bit, obvious her look is more curious than anything then turns flirtatous, "This way sir if you would follow me. Would you care for your baths immediately or later?"
Margaret will escort you both upstairs to the second floor, the stairwell curves back to be directly over the main room, then down the hall past other rooms and another stairway. She takes you both up to the third floor and shows you both to different rooms. Once inside you notice they each have a small common room, a couch and coffee table and two doors, one on either side. The door to the left of common room leads to the bedchamber and the door opposite leads to a small room with a tub, window and a pulley system out a window. If you requested the baths immidiatly she tugs on the pulley and shortly another female comes into the room and begins working the pulley. After a shortwhile your respective worker will come and gather you from the common room or bedchambe to inform you the bath is ready. Upon entering the bath chamber you'll notice slight steam coming from the tub.
"I think I'll stay with human ale for my meal. I'll find out if your dwarven stuff is worth all the talk later tonight."
Ardil retrieves his coin purse and slides 5 gold across the bar.
"Here's enough to cover myself and my sister. I'll have myself a regular room, I'm used to humble accomodations, but make sure she gets the best. She needs a break after the long caravan trip."
He sits back and drinks his ale while waiting for his food. He glances around curiously, following the elves with his eyes as they leave the room.
Don't see many of those in our part of the world, and I gather they're not that common here either. Wonder if they're adventurers... perhaps they would be interested in exploring the mountains! I bet that dwarf knows them like the back of his hand... he could be useful too. I wonder if anyone else in here could be useful.
UU bounces her coin pouch in her palm. Too light. With regret she plunks down a single coin. The bath will have to wait. UU drops most of her gear in her room before returning to the common room and grabbing a seat at the bar. She keeps a stool open for Doc.
Crystal will initially be indecisive between staying with Aeldris and seeing to the horses, but will follow the lords 'lead' and loiter in the common room until shown upstairs.
The bath will definitely bring a smile of happiness to Crystal's face, she will even offer the maid a few silvers to stay and help her wash her hair
While washing and such Crystal will use the time to happily chat to the maid, gathering information and gossip while also giving the lass stories in return.
Aeldris initially follows the boy out to the stable, but seeing he is competent, he returns to the inn and is led upstairs by Margaret. "Immediately would be excellent, a bath followed by a hot meal sounds ideal right now."
Ardil - Jasper accepts the coins, produces a pint of ale in front of you, "For the meal, did you like meats? Pig is the meat for the day, but for an extra five silver I can provide steak?"
Crystal - After the maid readies your bath, "Would you like me to stay to assist?" Nodding her agreement the maid turns so not to offend the elf and once Crystal is in the tub she comes over and beings washing her hair. She is very quiet and only speaks when asked direct questions.
Aeldris - Just as for Crystal once the bath is complete the serving maid asks if she is needed to stay and "Would you like your meal in the room or will you have it after your bath?"
Udaya - Udaya finds a seat at the bar next to the Halflings brother, "What'll it be ma'am?" Jasper asks while cleaning a mug.
"I can manage myself, thank you. I'll return to the common room for the meal."
Removing his traveling clothes, Aeldris happily sinks into the bath, the salt and grime of weeks and sea washing away. When he emerges, he changes into a finer set of clothes: an autumn-gold shirt () and dark green breeches, before returning to the common room for dinner.
Feeling more cheerful than she has in days, Avala vaults easily into a barstool next to Ardil. It requires a bit of strength and grace as the stool is at least a foot taller than she is, but she manages it with no problem. She places her pack underneath her on the seat for a few more inches and is pleased to find she's now at a suitable height to be able to eat comfortably.
After thanking Ardil for the meal and room - he'd always been generous, even as a small child - she says to Jasper:
"Pig is fine for me, and I'll have a glass of whatever my brother is drinking as well. In that, please. (She indicates a large shotglass nearby on the bar, which is the perfect size for a halfling to use as a drinking glass). I'm sure I couldn't manage a mug the size of these."
Udaya - Udaya finds a seat at the bar next to the Halflings brother, "What'll it be ma'am?" Jasper asks while cleaning a mug.
Udaya eyes the human with the halfling 'sister' speculatively, almost missing Jasper's question. "Huh? Oh, just an ale, I guess. What do you have in the way of food and for how much?"
She gives Ardil and Avala a polite nod, "Hi."
Aeldris - The maid nods acknowledging your request, "Just tug on the cord there sir if you need fresh water." Indicating the pulley rope system used to get the water up to the room and then departs.
Common Room
Witnessing the Halflings acrobatic display Jasper is a bit stunned as well, still a smile creases his face when she points at the shot glass, "Sure thing ma'am and no offense but I suppose your appetite is not as hearty as your brothers?" He pours Avala a 'mug' as well of the ale.
He pours an ale for Udaya, "We have a good selection actually. Some dwarven meals, basic meats, fruit and vegetables. Standard meals, which include meat, bread, and vegetables run at six silver; dependent on the meat though. For steak it'll be another five silver on the six and for pork just the six. If you'd like just the meat it's five for the steak and three for the pork. Fruit is an additional five copper." Jasper turns to Avala, "Meals will be at half price ma'am."
"Now if you care to fancy our drinks; dwarven stout is a gold, wines are two to six silver depending on age. Ales are three copper a piece for the standard pint, and we do have a few seasonal selections. Our winter brews are in!" Jasper smiles at this, "We have an amber, six copper a pint, a dark for six copper, and a honey ale going for eight copper a pint." He pauses, obviously going over everything he just said in his mind then looks at you three, "So shall it be staying with standards? And what would ya like to eat?"
UU pulls out a few coins. "Just the pork and fruit, thanks."
Crystal -
Spoiler:After the maid readies your bath, "Would you like me to stay to assist?" Nodding her agreement the maid turns so not to offend the elf and once Crystal is in the tub she comes over and beings washing her hair. She is very quiet and only speaks when asked direct questions.
After, what to the others might seem, a very leisurely amount of time bathing Crystal joins the others down stairs for their meal.
Upon being told/offered the menu she slides a gold coin across the counter, "Perhaps a small sample of all your fares?" She tries to give her best smile to the fellow behind the bar,
Followed with another gold, "As well as a bottle of your house wine?" She looks to Sir Caresti, "And two glasses..." She finishes, now looking to the others sharing the room.
Crystal
The girl will mention that the weather of late has been cooler than normal for this time of year. The strangest thing yet is how the dwarves just up and vanished many months ago. According to her no one seems to know just why.
Udaya - Jasper nods, quickly goes to the kitchen and returns, "Should be out shortly ma'am."
Jasper nods to Crystal, "Very well ma'am." He calls over Margaret to fetch your wine and glasses while he goes into the kitchen to place the order. As Margaret comes back to you Aeldris enters the room from the stairs, "Would you and your husband be dining at the bar or a table ma'am?" It is evident the inflection is meant as a question. Which ever you indicate she will pour the drinks for you both and leave the bottle with you.
Within the room you see the Halfling and her brother, a human, at the bar accompanied Udaya.
Crystal's Checking for more information:The girl will mention that the weather of late has been cooler than normal for this time of year. The strangest thing yet is how the dwarves just up and vanished many months ago. According to her no one seems to know just why. Crystal will nod, thanking the girl for the back rub etc, and try and probe for more information. Are there any warring Human Kingdoms about? Maybe people are seeing more Orcs than usual? "Ooo...could you scrub just a tad lower?...Mmmmmm...heavenly..."Jasper nods to Crystal, "Very well ma'am." He calls over Margaret to fetch your wine and glasses while he goes into the kitchen to place the order. As Margaret comes back to you Aeldris enters the room from the stairs, "Would you and your husband be dining at the bar or a table ma'am?" It is evident the inflection is meant as a question. Which ever you indicate she will pour the drinks for you both and leave the bottle with you.
Within the room you see the Halfling and her brother, a human, at the bar accompanied Udaya.
Crystal will smile to the serving lass and quietly whisper,
"I believe Sir Caresti and I shall prefer a table, thank you ever so much." She smiles sincerely to the maid. To ease the girl over/out of any social faux-passe she may be experiencing.
Crystal shall take her seat and await the meal and Sir Caresti's company, though she will endeavour to be happy and pleasant to any one nearby.
Not quite catching Crystal's comment from across the room, Aeldris joins her at one of the tables. "Ah, a bottle of wine; this day continues to improve!"
Settling in at the table, Aeldris speaks to Crystal in a quieter tone, "While I am glad to be off that boat, I must admit I am not entirely sure on how to proceed from here. Our instructions were remarkably vague, for how important the mission is."
Margaret smiles at Crystals comment of his relationship status, "Really? A lord you say?"
She pours your glasses and takes more care to Aeldris' glass. "If you need anything else my lord please let me know." She winks as she leaves the bottle at the table.
"Ah, a bottle of wine; this day continues to improve!"Settling in at the table, Aeldris speaks to Crystal in a quieter tone,
"While I am glad to be off that boat, I must admit I am not entirely sure on how to proceed from here. Our instructions were remarkably vague, for how important the mission is."
Crystal again bows at Sir Caresti's compliment, for a moment her demeanour dimming.
She smiles warmly when the food and plates arrive, gently asking questions in regards to aspects of the meal that is being served them.
The food is a simple plate, meat, bread, greens and carrots, along with fruit (Apples and Oranges sliced). All in all the food seasoned well, despite it being prepared by a dwarf.
Crystal eats everything upon her plate Commenting in Elvish quietly to Aeldris about her thoughts in regarding the food. The wine she is also happy with. As their conversation 'ambles' over various mundane topics in regards to their surroundings, Crystal asks Aeldris on his thoughts about the bathing arraignments.
"I am soo glad to finally have had a proper chance at bathing," Crystal actually 'flounces' her properly washed and combed hair happily, "There are only so many things one can do with just a simple cantrip type spell."
And then she blushes, realising her topic of conversation may have strayed a little too far into 'personal' territory.
No fort save needed, the wine is not that strong and is good yes, but weak in comparison to the elvish wine you are both accustomed too.
Ardil indicates to Jasper that pork will be fine. He nods back to Udaya as she sits next to him. He eats his food chatting idly with Avala and (if she seems interested) Udaya. Nothing beyond common pleasantries, asking about how she ended up here, how she likes the town, what she thinks of the sea, etc etc.
He pays close attention to the elves at the table behind him (once they come down from their bath).
Being that the room is silent except for you all's conversation and the proximity of it all, Ardil is able to hear the conversation.
And on that note: Aeldris and Crystal can roll a Perception DC 10 to notice that fact as well. :D
Crystal's ears lower and she casts a heavy lidded look in Ardil's direction.
"Should you wish to hear things, perhaps moving to a closer seat?" She indicates any of the near by tables, "One would not want a person straining something..." She finishes with a smouldering gaze and quirk'd smile.
"Now that I think of it...the ship's cook said something strange the first day, about us all being on the same quest. Perhaps after dinner we should take some time to speak to our companions from the ship?"
"Yes, the hot water was an unexpected luxury." Before he can say any more, Crystal picks up on the eavesdropper, a split second before Aeldris.
Ardil rises eagerly when offered to move closer, giving Avala a wink, and approaches the elves' table.
He bows and speaks.