"Glum..." The gnome mutters before they return to the house, "Like wet cloth slapped over stone."
........
When he wakes in the morning...
Well, he's a bit hungry, "mmm... I wonder if these northern lands have discovered the Taldoran Omelet? Possibly not. I'm almost sure it's a state secret. And taldor chickens are superior at being chickens... they're so chicken their own egglaying scares them."
Gabryjel hears Venja's comments about the picture, but decides not to say anything to Nadja. Given his amazing success with the town thus far, he's going to enjoy the stew and the house and a warm bed without giving people a reason to panic.
However, his military mind is impressed with the discipline of a clean house. But as this one-horse town can't afford to have a even a tavern in it, he's fairly positive it doesn't have a gaggle of servants to clean houses.
As he munches the juicy meat in the stew he glances at Nadja.
"You got a good place here - it's sharp, real tidy," he says with a friendly nod at the house.
"You run a tight ship, I like that," he adds as he continues to enjoy his meal.
When Venja makes her discovery Variel looks at her with a troubled expression on his face. Shaking his head he whispers back to her and the group. Well, what do we do about it? I mean we think there is some connection but what is it and how do we go about broaching the subject?
The night before responding to Gabe,
Nadya smiles at you, Well I must thank you for the compliment but it is not me that does such duties. I owe it all to Hatch. He takes care of the house for me while I am away. He is a bit shy so if he doesn't make an appearance don't take it personally.
Nadya refuses to say more on the subject as she bids you a good night.
The night before responding to Gabe,
Nadya smiles at you, Well I must thank you for the compliment but it is not me that does such duties. I owe it all to Hatch. He takes care of the house for me while I am away. He is a bit shy so if he doesn't make an appearance don't take it personally.
Nadya refuses to say more on the subject as she bids you a good night.
Gabryjel - tactful as ever, sees a mystery. This time, he elects to be more subtle than usual.
"Wait - who the hell is this Hatch guy - he's not a slave or something, is he?" he asks with frown.
Nadya just shakes her head no. She seems to want to say more but either doesn't have the right words or some other reason stills her tongue. With a bit of a sad look she starts to head to her room for the night.
Before Nadya retires for the night, Venja cautious approaches her and asks softly, "May I speak with you a little bit, Nadya? Perhaps we could share a cup of tea while we talk."
Venja waits for Nadya to agree to tea (or not) and helps with preparation of the drink if it's needed. Once they are settled, to speak quietly and alone, she speaks again. "I noticed a picture on your mantle. There's a little girl in the picture. If it's not too harsh a question, may I ask what happened to her?" She observes Nadya with concern and empathy while she awaits an answer.
Hearing that Venja's trying to smooth things over with a more diplomatic approach via tea, Gabryjel's ears perk up and he decides that it's about time for him to try to help out a little.
So he'll move around the place and fix them a late night snack to munch on and hope that his quiet presence with food and just keeping his mouth shut but showing some understanding will be enough to smooth things over and help out the Diplomacy of the others...
In the morning Beck will breakfast with the rest and ask, "Oye, Xan, Venja, how does either o' yea figure on goin out on the town this mornin. Mayhap we ken see that shop-keeper, expllain the situation, just how Gaby's an ol' soldier an is aways checkin his axe, e'en after he's jest cleaned it an' such. Ask if there's anythin we can do ta make up for givin him such a fright? Offer services, we gots healin, an huntin, an such what may be o' use ta a store owner?"
"We could also use some cold weather gear what's better if'n there's any ta be found.".
Whenever they go, Beck pulls out his pipes and plays a li'l tune whild dancing along in an awkward jig stepping attop the ice like Muriel had, dancing along
"Think I need a new set o' pipes, eh?"
Nadya slowly pulls back from the doorway she was passing though and searches your face. Not a twitch of a muscle is visible on Nadya's face as she studies you. Eventually the stone facade cracks and she nods to you to start the tea. Nadya doesn't say anything while the tea is heated. For the longest time Nadya just cups the tea in her hands warming them. Taking a single sip breaks her tongue free and she starts to tell you a bit more of her tale.
That is my daughter Thora. I have not seen her in 5 weeks, 3 days, and 4 hours. The last I saw of her she was being dragged to the Pale Tower by guards. Why I don't know. I keep replaying everything over and over in my mind of why she eld be taken from me. I kept asking the guards and they ignored me. All they did was laugh as they brought her away. I went to the Pale Tower to ask the witch Nahzena why. Instead of an answer she mentioned that if I brought enough food for two months of supplies for her men that she would consider releasing my daughter. That is why I have been making runs to gather supplies. I should finally have enough now to pay the witch and free my daughter.
Venja is moved by Nadya's words and leans close, giving her a little hug. "I'm so sorry to hear your words. I grow to like this Pale Tower and the witch Nahzena less and less, the more I learn of them. I think I have sorry news for you."
She settles back into her seat, her fingers wrapped around her teacup, fiddling with it a bit nervously. She had planned to speak with the others first before telling Nadya of her daughter's death, but why delay the inevitable? I wish Anee was here with me... she'd know just the right words to say and how to say them...
Venja continues on softly, with as much sympathy in her voice as she can manage. "When we found the portal that led from our part of the world to yours, there was a hut. Inside the hut was a living doll, a magical construct. We had to defeat it to pass by and enter the portal. We saw a spirit in the snow that looked exactly like your daughter Thora. She was thankful that by killing the doll, we released her from the bondage her spirit was held in."
She sets the teacup down and looks directly at Nadya. "I do not fully understand the magics involved, but I'm sure your witch Nazhena was involved. If what we saw was true, there is no reason for you to pay the witch anything, as she cannot free your daughter... Thora is already free."
She pauses a moment, giving Nadya a chance to grieve or recover a bit before adding, "I am so sorry for your loss, my dear Nadya."
"If there's anything else we can do for you, you have but to name it."
Nadya sits holding her cup in trembling hands. Almost as a whisper to herself you can here, No, that is not possible. I just asked again last week about her.Surely they would not have done anything to her. They knew i was gathering supplies for them. I told them another week and i would have what they wanted to get her back. Why is this happening?
with the last question the teacup slips to the floor shattering all over the place. Looking up from her now empty hands Nadya chokes out through the tears that are starting to flow, No, there is nothing you can do for me right now but give me some space and time to grieve. I don't know why you would say such things unless they are true so I must assume that such a horrid fate has befallen my Thora. Excuse me now.
Nadya rises woodenly and moves away from the table leaving the teacup shattered onthe floor. stumbling to her room seh closes the door behind her shutting out the world.
Poking his head out of the room, beck says "ya know, what if'n her spirit got pulled out her body and put in the gem and now that it's broke, her spirit got and went back in her body? I dunno nuthin bout that kind o' arcane thin'n that, but maybe there's still hope. We'll see when we go ta th' tower."
Beck takes a moment ta go an pick up the parts o the teacup. "Tha must ha been hard ta tell "adya, but it were the right thing ta do. Hope may'nt be lost entirely, but it'd be crue ta let her be manipulated"
Slight tweek on my next day's actions. May repost my previous action if its appropriate still...
After rising at dawn, besk steps out onto the snow and medetates while the others sleep. "Know what, why don't yea take some time ta get ready an' get food cookin an such-not. I'll be back in short order. Gonna see a man about a desecration, eh?"
Before heading out beck slips out in the early morning before the town is up, and heads to the temple. "Oye, Roth, I be in need o' some spiritual guidance," beck says as he enters, seeing the other fellow in the temple.
"G'day sir. Early church-goer like m'self eh?" he says to Alderon (not that he has any idea who the fellow is)
Guess I mean Helgash... or whoever the tiefling in the church is, not that Beck could ID him anyway
"Tha must ha been hard ta tell "adya, but it were the right thing ta do. Hope may'nt be lost entirely, but it'd be crue ta let her be manipulated"
After Nadya lives, Gabryjel glances over at his companions.
"Sounds like someone needs a killing," he says with a flat voice, his mind ranging over the witch and this tower.
"I got no problem spilling some blood - ya'll want to go deal with this witch?" he says to the others.
"Not tonight," beck says with a yawn. "An'considering the woman's got an army an is a powerful witch, may not be a top knorch idea ta look at killin right off. and dfinitely not sommat I'd be talkin about aloud. we all know we'd do what needs doin when pushin and shovin comes to it, but first we need information bout this place an' what's goin on."
"If we can get the white lady ta talk, or at least no come after us while we investigate, that'd be nice, mayhaps"
"considering the woman's got an army an is a powerful witch, may not be a top knorch idea ta look at killin right off."
Gabryjel looks at Beck with a dry smile.
"Beck - I'm surprised at you."
"If history has taught us anything, if education's worth a damn; than yeah - we've learned at least one immutable thing that is absolutely true throughout all of time."
"Anybody can be killed."
"Anybody."
He takes a long tug from his cigarette and than stubs it out.
"Besides - they have an army - but we have a Sheelah," he says glancing to the tiger somewhat knowingly - as if any moment he expects the tiger to growl out - Sheelah SMASH... and then clobber the whole pale tower to the ground.
Then he grins at Beck and gives him a rare wink.
Xanxan watched Nadya depart, "In case the obvious need be stated... she looked troubled."
The group wakes up quite refreshed even with the momentous news and surprises from the evening before. Nadya is no where to be seen at this time and the house is strangely quiet. Looking around even Nadya's 2 sons are gone as well. From the low barking outside you can tell the dogs are still here so Nadya has not taken them for a long trip. More than likely she went away with her sons to explain what was relayed to her last night. When she will return though is uncertain.
Moving around and getting ready for the day everyone seems to be doing well when Aneira gets a startled look in her eye and rushes off outside. Slamming the door behind her muffled sounds come through the doorway. It sounds like she is having a bad case of the dry heaves. After a few minutes she comes back in looking paler than usual but okay.
As the rest prepare a simple breakfast in the morning you notice that there are still some small pieces and dust from the cup of tea on the floor. It seems odd that it would not have been picked up and cleaned as everything else in the house is spotless. Hatch must have missed it whoever this Hatch is.
Hearing that some are going to apologize to the businessman, Variel nods in their direction. That seems like a good idea. At least it is a start to mend what happened. A for myself I think I will walk around a bit and see what the general store has to offer. I want to a get an idea of what this place at least has for supplies before we make way to head out where ever it is we need to go to. From there I might stop at the blacksmith to see what he or she has for purchase as well. It wouldn't hurt to see about some better equipment. Perhaps those that know a thing or two about horses could se if there is one for sale to help us carry our supplies as we travel along.
Venja watches Aneira with concern... and grows even more concerned when she goes outside to throw up.
In a quiet moment, she goes to her and asks her if she feels okay... She speaks softly so no one but Aneira can hear her words. "Anee, hon, are you alright? That was not normal for you... are you sure you're not with child? If so, perhaps you should go back to Heldren and wait for us to return..."
Before heading out beck slips out in the early morning before the town is up, and heads to the temple. "Oye, Roth, I be in need o' some spiritual guidance," beck says as he enters, seeing the other fellow in the temple.
"G'day sir. Early church-goer like m'self eh?" he says to Alderon (not that he has any idea who the fellow is)
Standing up, there really isn't much that can be discerned about Helgash's form, since he is fully wrapped in winter clothing and furs - he seems to sport a massive, armored frame under all such protection against the cold, yet moving with ease as if it really did not weigh him down.
His light brown irises are flecked with red - as if flames danced in his eyes, while his blond reddish hair seems to show the same tint. He stares momentarily at Beck, seemingly surprised - his tail snapping behind him as if it had a life of his own, an undeniable testament to his fiendish heritage - but his visage softens, as well as the grip on the polearm he holds on his left hand, while he extends his right one to greet him with a smile - "I guess one can say that, though others have called me late bloomer more than once"
As they exchange a strong handshake, his furs dislocated somewhat, revealing a longsword symbol around his neck, crested by a stylized depiction of a shining Sun - "I was not expecting to find another tiefling here" - he adds in a deep voice - "Well met, I am Helgash"
The longsword symbol is usually worn by the followers of Iomedae - the goddess of righteous valor, justice, and honor, and Aroden's herald.
The symbol worn by this tiefling however seems to bear distinct markings on it, as if it was somewhat different than the usual ones.
Beck is off before !nee's episode but will catch up with the others later around the shope of the scaired man.
"Tiefling? Mate, I'm born satyr, see?" Beck says doing a Little jig and playing a chord on his pipes. By poor humor, or utter lack of guile, the jest fals flat as the notes of his pipes, but the friendly handshake and crooked smile have a warmth to them. "It's good ta meecha. Beck Tavis is me, my mates are hanggin round town, if yer new and wanna ship out, ya can likely as not trek with us, eh? Folk tend ta run our kind out o' town unless ya got's a silvered tongue unlikes me-self"
"as a protector o' th' people, guardian o' civility-zation, whatcha think o' helpin prove a man murdered, right a wrong and such eh?" Beck asks Helgash.
Beck asks Roth, "Papa Roth, This fella on the up an' up? He in ta help with Haft?" if Roth vouches for his guest, beck gets specific information on where Haft is burried, where we can get shovles, and such.
!lso wether the guard was likely acting alone or not.
Helgash's face shows some surprise as Beck claims Satyr ancestry, looking him up and down for a moment, then opening up in a wide smile - "Satyr it is then my friend"
"It's good ta meecha. Beck Tavis is me, my mates are hanggin round town, if yer new and wanna ship out, ya can likely as not trek with us, eh? Folk tend ta run our kind out o' town unless ya got's a silvered tongue unlikes me-self"
Pondering the words, Helgash looks at Roth then back at Beck - "To be completely honest, I am not yet sure of my next destination... But I would of course be willing to meet your friends, and if our path is the same, why not walk it together indeed?"
"as a protector o' th' people, guardian o' civility-zation, whatcha think o' helpin prove a man murdered, right a wrong and such eh?" Beck asks Helgash.
Beck asks Roth, "Papa Roth, This fella on the up an' up? He in ta help with Haft?" if Roth vouches for his guest, beck gets specific information on where Haft is burried, where we can get shovles, and such.
!lso wether the guard was likely acting alone or not.
At the mention of Haft, the tiefling's smile fades somewhat, and he looks at Roth in expectation of his answer.
Roth shrugs his shoulders at the question. For what it is worth he has been a decent sort. Only met him 3 days ago when he stopped by. Didn't have a place to stay. He seemed to be a man of faith so I offed him a place here at night rather than the tavern. He hasn't caused any problems which is more than I can say for you and your group. Been here 20 minutes and already had the town in an uproar. If I didn't need you help I would be joining the townsfolk right now bad mouthing you all. I will give you credit though for helping that fellow with his leg. Would have been a sad state of affairs for him and his family what with the high fees to actually chop trees down around here combined with the piss poor price they actually fetch for selling them.
Aneira: Actually Venja, I haven't been myself for the last week or so. I thought maybe it was just a cold or the flu from these unseasonal temperatures. Now though, I don't know. Y could be right. If you are then there is no way I can continue on in this quest as I could be throwing up every other day, not to mention the risk to myself.
Xanxan has been quiet during all this talk, but as soon as the chance of pregnancy was mentioned, he got to work on something, knitting and sewing with a fury.
Once done, he glances over his creation... baby jammies and booties!
Roth shrugs his shoulders at the question. For what it is worth he has been a decent sort. Only met him 3 days ago when he stopped by. Didn't have a place to stay. He seemed to be a man of faith so I offed him a place here at night rather than the tavern. He hasn't caused any problems which is more than I can say for you and your group. Been here 20 minutes and already had the town in an uproar. If I didn't need you help I would be joining the townsfolk right now bad mouthing you all. I will give you credit though for helping that fellow with his leg. Would have been a sad state of affairs for him and his family what with the high fees to actually chop trees down around here combined with the piss poor price they actually fetch for selling them.
"And I thank you for having taken me in Master Roth" - Helgash nods, as he absently reaches for the simple medallion around his neck - "I do carry the Goddess symbol, but that alone commands no claim to hospitality. You took the path of trust is all" - he adds in a deep tone.
Turning to Beck, he continues - "Uproar? What has caused so?"
"it's one o' our mates. Gabe. Surley fella, well meaning tho. We was trackin someone what was followin us around. And a shopkeeper saw Gaby waiting, having a smoke holdin his axe, an' he freaked." Beck explaines.
"C'mon, I'll introduce ya." Beck laughs. "We may even make it for breakfast. I'm sure everyone'll be happy ta meecha."
"You were being followed?" - Helgash asks with a somber look - "And this friend of yours - Gabe? Does he usually smoke with an axe in hand?" - he smiles.
Picking up his gear and backpack, he nods at Beck - "Breakfast sound perfect, and I am also sure this misunderstanding can be cleared out in no time. Lead the way friend"
Venja continues to speak privately to Aneira. "If that IS the case, and we can't be sure so early, I think, perhaps there's something the local priest can do to release you from your vow to go on this quest with us. Otherwise you will sicken and perhaps worse, and the baby might be at risk. Shall we go speak with him? Or perhaps you'd prefer to go see him with Variel at your side," she posits, since she knows Anee is very protective of her relationship with the elven magus.
"Heh, only when he's not holding a bow, or a knife, It's not like I don't keep armed all the time. Mine is just less conspicuous," Beck laughs holding up his cudgel cane.
"Now follow along brother, off for some bacon! if my kitten ain't eatin it yet."
Beck leads Helgash along back from the churdn, down the street to Nadja's, catching every angry look as he prances along, dancing on the tops of the snow crests, leaving not a trace of his passing.
"Oye, halloo! So where's my bacon? By the by, thes is Helgash, a Satyr lake me if'n yea couldn't tell" Beck Introduces the newcomer. "Yea feelin alright Anee? Oh um, Helgash Aniera Whitestorm, her hubby's Variel, also a Whitestorm. This lovelie lady is Venja, and snow's a Hare if she's anywhere around. Um Gabe's likely inside and Nadja is our hostess an' is elsewere." Beck adds in a rambling introduction, Distracted by the vomit and concerned for one of his few friends who is apparently unwell.
Venja looks up from the corner where she is sitting with Aneira, speaking softly, girl-talk just between the two of them. She nods her head in greeting to Helgash and gives Beck a broad smile. Snow, a large arctic hare, peeks out from under Venja's skirt and stares at Helgash, casually swiping at one ear with a paw. He inclines his head for a moment, as if in greeting, then disappears under Venja's skirts.
Xanxan, assuming he's around when Helgash is introduced, waves to him.
"AH, there you are! This busy gnome is Xanxan. Sneaky fella, and an excellent craftsman." Beck says, seeing Xan appear. "One of the few folk that can surprise me, he is. This is Helgash. Pious fella I met at the church this morning while i was askin... about. . . stuff. . . and stuff."
The gnome is carrying baby clothes and nods smiling, "nice to meet you, Helgash, assuming you're not out to kill us or the like. You'd be surprised how many meetings go that way of late."
Helgash sets his weapon to rest against a nearby wall, and smiles at Beck's introduction - "Pious fella..." - he shakes his head - "Lets just say I am devoted - that should suffice friend Beck"
Then turning to the ones gathered, he offers a nod - "Well met all - I hope I am not intruding, as Beck invited me to join you in breakfast I decided to accept - strangers in a strange land and all that I guess"
As Xanxan addresses him, an initial puzzled look crosses the tiefling face, but he then smiles again - "I am sad to hear it has been so Master Xanxan" - raising both his hands in a sign of peace he adds - "No such intentions from me, so I believe I will accept your greeting, and say that it is nice to meet you also" - he shakes the gnome's hand.
The gnome shakes Helgash's hand, his small hand lost in the new Tiefling's grip, but that doesn't stop the gnome's enthusiasm in the gesture. "Oh I like this fellow, Beck. You should go out and find two more."
Having left to look around town Variel misses most of the morning excitement. When he returns from the general store though he sees a new acquisition to the group. Not the most outgoing at the best of times Variel simply looks the man over quickly and then nods his head in his direction. Variel Whitestorm, and you are?
Moving further inside the house Variel sees Aneira sitting on a chair and taking it easy. Moving over and putting a hand on her shoulder he gives a light squeeze and a kiss on the cheek. It is only then that he notices the perfect set of miniature clothing next to her. It still doesn't dawn on him what it means until a few minutes have passed. When it does Variel picks up Aneira gently and gives her a swing around the room. Setting her down at last Variel asks simply, When do we leave to bring you back home? There is no way you can continue on here in a strange land with unknown dangers. We need to get you back home. I am certain that the black rider's quest and criteria will not affect you as you can only do so much while pregnant. Once th baby is delivered then that would be a different matter but until then we need to ensure that you are safe.
Venja grins as Variel responds to Aneira's probable new situation. His reaction was all she'd hoped for and more. She gives Aneira a little wink and then turns her attention to the newcomer, letting the couple have their moment. She walks over to Helgash, takes in the whole of him for the first time in detail, including the tail.
"Ah, it seems you have something in common with my good friend, Beck. We are a most unlikely pair of friends indeed, and there is no reason why you and I cannot be friends as well. I am most pleased to make your acquaintance."
She pauses a moment before going on. "I am a healer of animals, and of people now as well, though my profession before undertaking this voyage was veterinarian. I have treated many people though too, and have learned much of the art from Aneira as we have traveled together. Tell me, good fellow, are you indeed a follower of Iomedae? Does that mean you are a cleric of some kind, or just a lay follower? If it isn't too forward to inquire, what skills and abilities do you bring our little group?"
While she does seem to be a bit chatty today, it isn't really in her nature, and her voice is quiet as she speaks. Snow, the arctic hare, hops about her feet, weaving in and out from under her skirts, pausing now again to sniff at Helgash curiously. There is definitely something odd about the hare... a strangeness that sets him apart from the normal arctic hare... including, but not limited to, some odd patterns in his fur.
Having left to look around town Variel misses most of the morning excitement. When he returns from the general store though he sees a new acquisition to the group. Not the most outgoing at the best of times Variel simply looks the man over quickly and then nods his head in his direction. Variel Whitestorm, and you are?
Helgash is slightly taken aback by the elf's tone, simply nodding and offering a greeting back - "I am Helgash - well met"
Moving further inside the house Variel sees Aneira sitting on a chair and taking it easy. Moving over and putting a hand on her shoulder he gives a light squeeze and a kiss on the cheek. It is only then that he notices the perfect set of miniature clothing next to her. It still doesn't dawn on him what it means until a few minutes have passed. When it does Variel picks up Aneira gently and gives her a swing around the room. Setting her down at last Variel asks simply, When do we leave to bring you back home? There is no way you can continue on here in a strange land with unknown dangers. We need to get you back home. I am certain that the black rider's quest and criteria will not affect you as you can only do so much while pregnant. Once th baby is delivered then that would be a different matter but until then we need to ensure that you are safe.
The mention of the Black Rider clearly makes Helgash shift uncomfortably, or perhaps it is the private nature of the conversation that has him uneasy, as if he is intruding somewhat.
Venja grins as Variel responds to Aneira's probable new situation. His reaction was all she'd hoped for and more. She gives Aneira a little wink and then turns her attention to the newcomer, letting the couple have their moment. She walks over to Helgash, takes in the whole of him for the first time in detail, including the tail.
"Ah, it seems you have something in common with my good friend, Beck. We are a most unlikely pair of friends indeed, and there is no reason why you and I cannot be friends as well. I am most pleased to make your acquaintance."
She pauses a moment before going on. "I am a healer of animals, and of people now as well, though my profession before undertaking this voyage was veterinarian. I have treated many people though too, and have learned much of the art from Aneira as we have traveled together. Tell me, good fellow, are you indeed a follower of Iomedae? Does that mean you are a cleric of some kind, or just a lay follower? If it isn't too forward to inquire, what skills and abilities do you bring our little group?"
While she does seem to be a bit chatty today, it isn't really in her nature, and her voice is quiet as she speaks. Snow, the arctic hare, hops about her feet, weaving in and out from under her skirts, pausing now again to sniff at Helgash curiously. There is definitely something odd about the hare... a strangeness that sets him apart from the normal arctic hare... including, but not limited to, some odd patterns in his fur.
His thoughts interrupted, as he was about to leave outside again, leaving the group to their private conversation, Helgash's tail whips swiftly as the woman in front of him inspects him - his eyes locked strongly in her attire and demeanor. With a firm tone he replies - "I believe I was a follower of Iomedae even before I knew it - it seems I have walked her path, and that of her former master ever since I can remember, but the Goddess has only shown me her light recently - I have accepted it wholeheartedly, yes" - his initial tense reaction eases into a smile.
"I am not a cleric in the strict sense of the word, though I have found that in more cases than not, such classifications seem to have become less clear in current days - I have crossed paths with men and women that command true divine powers, yet claim to follow no God or Goddess, nor feel such a blessing upon them - I was one of those once, and still am in many ways, but I do feel her hand on my shoulder" - pushing his furs aside, he reveals the chainmail, longsword and a badly beaten Iomedaen symbol around his neck - "I do not wear the cloth, but instead metal - by the heritage of her former master, the Goddess has deemed me a protector and safeguarder, bestowing upon me the power to heal, and the grace to carry their word unto others. I am a student of religion and a traveller, and I pledge my service to those that, to the best of my knowledge, are deemed worthy" - even though his words seem filled with intensity, and more than once he seems to look into the void as if reminiscing, there is no tension in his conversation, and he smiles again, shrugging - "I guess that is the best I can do as far as describing myself"
Looking again at Variel and Aneira, he adds - "I do not wish to intrude upon your gathering, and I understand you are discussing private matters. I offer you my congratulations - there is nothing the can compare to the beauty of a new life, as it carries all the hope and possibilities in the world" - he bows deeply to them - "May the blessings and watchful eye of the Goddess be upon you and your child"
He motions for the door - "I will wait outside"
"There is no need for you to go out into the cold, Helgash. They will have many private moments in the times to come, I think. You are most welcome among us here." Though emphatic in her words, her voice remains quiet, as if she isn't used to speaking loudly ever.
"This is not, it has seemed to me so far, a very open community in general. Folk are not forthcoming easily. So, thank you for sharing a bit of yourself with me. It seems you are quite blessed by your goddess. I envy you that... and hope someday I can find a single faith that pulls me towards it."
She settles herself by the fireside for warmth and pours more hot water into the teapot, brewing some more of the fragrant drink. "More tea will be ready soon, if you'd care to share a cup with me." She asks brightly. Snow shies away from the heat of the fire and hops to the side of her furthest from the flames, busies himself with grooming his radiant fur.
Variel mulls over the name Helgash a moment as they make the introductions. Interesting name. Some day I will have to find the time to ask you more about it. If you will excuse me though I have other business to attend to. As you can tell Variel is a man of few words. His brusque nature is more from focusing on facts and pressing matters in front of him than a mean streak or intent to ignore someone. Hearing Helgash say something about leaving Variel is about to respond when Venja words her thoughts which mirror his sentiments. No need to leave, a joyous occassion should be enjoyed by all.
Once Variel has a chance to settle himself down he finds Xanxan and thanks him profusely for the excellent set of baby clothes. These are some of your finest works indeed. I would be proud to have the baby wear these. Thank you very much Xanxan.
"You're most welcome, you'll find a child outgrows these things soon enough, of course, but Widder Snelling should be able to adjust them."
Gabryjel enters the room and glances around, his eyes falling on the second Tiefling.
His eyes flick between the newcommer and back toward the others.
"Well, wherever I've been - I'm back," he says with a grunt.
"There is no need for you to go out into the cold, Helgash. They will have many private moments in the times to come, I think. You are most welcome among us here." Though emphatic in her words, her voice remains quiet, as if she isn't used to speaking loudly ever.
Helgash nods and looks to both Variel and Aneira, as if waiting for their confirmation of your words.
"This is not, it has seemed to me so far, a very open community in general. Folk are not forthcoming easily. So, thank you for sharing a bit of yourself with me. It seems you are quite blessed by your goddess. I envy you that... and hope someday I can find a single faith that pulls me towards it."
"Agreed Venja - I have had little to no interaction with the ones inhabiting Waldsby thus far, but they definitely seem to shy away from outside presence - Roth has been kind enough in allowing me to stay with him, and I have accepted his hospitality. I was actually intent on going out and attempting to exchange a few words with the locals when Beck showed up with his kind invitation" - Helgash adds.
At the mention of the Goddess, his hand again reaches for the old medallion - "Her blessings are for all that search them with heart and soul" - he looks at Venja - "If you do so, you will most certainly be successful. You need not envy it, I will share her wisdom with you, whenever you so wish"
She settles herself by the fireside for warmth and pours more hot water into the teapot, brewing some more of the fragrant drink. "More tea will be ready soon, if you'd care to share a cup with me." She asks brightly. Snow shies away from the heat of the fire and hops to the side of her furthest from the flames, busies himself with grooming his radiant fur.
Again the large tiefling looks towards Variel and his spouse, but at his words, he smiles and joins Venja, removing his furs, and placing them by the door, next to his weapon - "Thank you - I will accept a cup of tea yes"
As he notices the baby clothes, Helgash addresses Xanxan - "Are you a tailor Master Xanxan?"
By then, Gabryjel walks in. Helgash immediately stands up, extending his hand in a greeting - "Well met. I am Helgash, an impromptu breakfast guest, it would seem" - he looks at Beck smiling.
Gabryjel moves in, swinging his bow over his shoulder, looking at Helgash's proffered hand for a quick moment, but seems hesitant to shake it.
He looks from Helgash to the others, then back to Helgash.
"Yeah, no offense - but since we've got here we've been attacked and almost roughed up by a bunch of piss-poor basterds who're so scared that they piss themselves at the sign of someone standing in a street..."
"So the thing is - how do we know you're trusty?" he says watching Helgash thoughtfully.
"Ain't trying to piss you off or nothing, but as it stands there's some pretty shady dealings around here - you got any more convincing proof on who you are and what you're doing here?" he says studying the new Tiefling.
With his hand still outstretched, Helgash replies - "Well... I have got as much proof that I am trustworthy on me... As you probably have on yourself?" - looking inquisitively at Gabryjel.