"Indeed, this may be the most polite pig I've ever encountered," Vin says, following up Rosella's comment. "I used to work with animals," he says, instantly regretting bringing it up, "but that was ages ago," he adds, hoping no one asks about it.
He glances over again looking at the bit of a crowd that's gathered around where Tot is and he starts thinking of ways to step in and save her if she look uncomfortable. Well, more uncomfortable than usual.
'Good, not like I haven't heard more than my fair share of 'girl talk' but I'm glad I get to stay.' Nodding like he knows the man, Seamus chimes in, "Yeah, she was talking about him earlier, told Vin all about him, have you met Vin?" Seamus looks around for Vin, then turns back to Kizzy, keeping his face as serious as possible. "He's the one with purple tips in his hair."
'Their going to practice dueling?' Seamus looks from Kizzy to Meg, 'Meg has a rapier and her armor is no heavier than mine, and Kizzy is wearing scalemail and carrying a greatsword.' Clearing his throat, "Ummm..." Shaking his head 'Nope, nope, I'm not going to be that guy.' He unshoulders his lute, taking a second to tune one string, "Um what kind of music would you like played while you practice?" He smiles, "I figure I can practice while your practicing."
Turning to face the fastly approaching caravan, Izomandakus forces his eyes to adapt to the diminishing light. As the first guard approaches he greets Nichole "Heya! You must be the caravan heading to the Swallowtail Festival in Sandpoint, right? Do you mind if we join with you on this trip? It is always safer to walk ensemble when doing the Lost Coast Road"
Assuming he is accepted in the caravan he is quick to answer Rosella and Vindur when they come to greet his pig "She is called Pachemu. She can be abrasive sometimes, especially when there are blueberry cookies in the way. But the rest of the time she is a kind and lovely friend"
She offers a nod to Rosella then he asks to Vindur as a follow up to his explanations "What kind of work were you doing with animals?"
"Told Vin all about him?!?!" She most certainly did not! She did not even say that name to Vin. She merely alluded to her--him--whoever! She will have to be more careful as to what she says around Seamus if he is going to share so easily.
But she says none of that. She pulls on a big smile, turns her head down and to the side all bashfully, and gives him an "oh, you!" look.
She starts to warm up with some stretches: rotating her neck, her arms, her wrists, rotating many jointed parts of her body. She hops out of the cart and does some stretches as the group moves. "Do you know any catchy drinking songs? Something upbeat that makes me want to sing along. Preferably something that goes a bit harder." She glances back to Seamus and is reminded of his choice of instrument. "Well, as hard as you can go on a lute."
"Oh, I worked in herding, but it's surely not as interesting a story as how you ended up gaining such a charming traveling companion. How did you end up meeting Pachemu?" he says, trying to avoid answering any more questions about his history with animals.
Well, looks like I'm hiding from conversation as much as Tot, guess I just hide behind not saying anything of consequence, he thought.
@Gheri: Thanks! That's what I was going for. Surprisingly, pretty is fairly easy to draw, cute can be hard.
Oh, and if anyone is interested, Aaron Blaise, a former Disney animator that has some impressive credits such as the Lion King and Mulan, is having a sale on his website. If you're looking to get better, he is a great teacher and just a fun person to watch work. Also, compared to some of the stuff out there, his prices are very reasonable. You may also want to check out his youtube channel to see him working on different illustrations and animations.
The tension in Tot's shoulders ease some as Rastaf reassures her about the festival and the dedication. The invitation comes as a bit of a surprise, however, and she chews the inside of her lip as she tries to make up her mind.
He lies!
Empty promises from false gods.
They would never accept you anyway.
"I-I think..."
He could never enjoy a day with you, no one could!
"... I would like..."
You left the only ones that would ever welcome you. You're alone...
The words hang for a moment as she tries to say them. She knows they are there! They are right there on the tip of her tongue if she could only get them out.
...and you always will be. It's what you deserve.
Tot's mouth slowly closes as she finds she can't bring herself to accept Rastaf's offer. Her cheeks begin to burn dully in shame as she avoids his gaze. She wanted to go. She wanted to see what it was like to be normal.
You're a weapon. Festivals are for people.
She could feel tears threatening to well up in her eyes. She wanted to weep it hurt so much.
You're weak! You're not good enough! You never were!
She closes her eyes and takes in a breath, crushing the emotions raging through her and stuffing them deep down where she could bury them. She starts to apologize to Rastaf, to make some excuse about why she can't go. Before she can speak, several newcomers arrive and tot finds herself overwhelmed by the attention and the conversation now flowing about her. Her breathing grows shallower and faster as she begins to panic, but before she loses all control to the urge to just flee the scene, she finds an anchor.
Sparring! I can spar. I can do that, she thinks and before her usual doubts can begin to plague her, she speaks up.
"I'll spar with you," she tells Kizzy and Meg without a hint of nervousness in her voice, though it is still soft and not much louder than a whisper.
I can do this. I know I can.
In my group that I play with on Sundays, we're playing an adventure in the Scarred Lands and I'm playing a half-orc fighter named Ghirkhina, and the poor dear seems to have the worst luck with trolly magic.
First off, this started out as a run through the 3.5 version of Tomb of Horrors, and Ghirkhina was Gkirkhan, a male half-orc that is based off of the Jagermonsters from Girl Genius and is a gigolo in his background with the worst womanizing streak. He had all of his gear stripped from him, wrestled a gargoyle in the buff, then got hit with the insta-opposite trap and failed both saves on it. That is how he became a she and now goes by Gkirkhina.
Fast forward to tonight's session. The party has been tasked with finding a stolen tome by the necromancers in Hallowfaust that had been stolen in a brazen robbery. We are approaching the great tree in the Hornsaw Forest to steal it back from the Blood Crone after she stole it from a necromancer, who was the original thief, that ran afoul of some trap that turned him to stone and took his face. While chasing the aforementioned necromancy, Ghirkhina had fallen for his illusions that baited traps twice and had failed a save against a spell that sent her running after scaring the pants off him in the first ambush.
Then we have tonight. We get attacked by small, little constructs, and the first one runs up and wraps its arms around Ghirkhina. It wins initiative and it unleashes it's payload. A Baleful Ooziform spell. I rolled a 9 on the save and poor Ghirkhina turns into ooze while her gear falls to the ground. She does crit on a fiend another of the wretched little monsters had summoned, but after combat and eight minutes had passed, she turns back into her normal self, which is now without a stitch of clothing. Ghirkhan would have reveled in it. Ghirkhina, not so much.
So, that's the tale of how my character is slowly starting to have a phobia of transmutation magic and managed to wind up buck naked in two adventures in a row.
"Oh, excellent. Another dance partner. What is your pleasure, darling? With that little armory of your, I believe you would probably know more about best practices than me. I would prefer to not actually hurt each other." She pauses as she thinks about her own secondary weapons, the knuckls and the dagger and she weighs the pros and cons of mentioning them. Sapphira had always said "do not play dumb; play just smart enough that your foes think they have seen all your tricks." "I have a dagger as well, if you would prefer I use that." Everyone has a dagger, so it is hardly much of a surprise.
"Uh, maybe we should start off with getting some wasters," Tot suggests as she becomes aware of how little experience Meg actually has with sparring. "I can try to teach you how to use your weapons, but actually sparring with live steel is stupidly dangerous."
You're one to talk.
"I know some unarmed techniques and wouldn't mind sparring that way if you want," she adds, hoping to not seem like she was backing out.
”The festival. I was invited by Lady Ameiko.” She answered his question shortly and then moved a distance away again, smoldering with irritation.
She nodded to Seamus, ”Let them know we’re just going through the motions, would you? Wouldn’t want to alarm Nick and Nichole.” Turning to Meg she motioned her to her side. ”Keep next to me, so I can show Gheri what I was talking about.” She waved to Gherix and mouthed, ”Pretend she’s you!” as she pointed to Meg and gave the scholar a thumbs up sign. Then she asked Tot to take a swing at Meg so she could demonstrate her skill with guarding allies.
Qetsiyah flowed into a battle stance with more grace than her plodding gait would suggest. She briefly took the measure of her opponent trying to judge who would strike first.
Then she swings a punch toward the monster hunter. But was deflected by her armor.
But she stood ready to defend Meg from attack, her hand flashing out to deflect the strike at her new Caydenite friend.
He then turns to Rosella and says, "You have done so much training, and it looks like they could use a fourth to make even pairings. Do you want to get in on the sparring session?"
'Good! she's smiling again, I can't tell if she's that moody or if it's the alcohol.' As Megan moves to exit the wagon, Seamus begins to strum.
'I'll spar with you?' Turning sees the small strawberry blond bounty hunter 'Our bounty hunter approaches, good may have a chance to learn what she is willing to hunt.'
Strumming a couple of cords, 'Her Ward? Three's good enough.' as Meg begins to stretch, asking for a drinking song. He nods his head towards Kizzy "She's right I have no desire to be anyone's ward, and don't ask me to join the sparing, it's not going to happen." Smiling, he strums, "Besides we need an appropriate song."
'Hmm, maybe, a .. Not paying a lot attention to the conversation about armor, choice of weapons, wasters vs live steel or the moving caravan, 'This one will do!' Seamus begins to play just as Kizzy throws a punch at Tot. Jumping back, 'Yeah I don't want any part of this!' His eyes wide, he looks at the large apple sharing half orc, shrugs and continues playing.
And with that, she brings her escort along as she moves in to have a chat with Seamus. As they walk, she says, "Don't worry, I won't ask you to step in there to defend my honor," and bats her eyes at him playfully.
"Master Locksmith," she says, approaching Seamus and giving him a nod of greeting, "looks like you've arranged a showcase of the meat shields for us. Most kind of you," and she gives him an ornery smile as she adds, "or did you just set this up to get people to place bets so you could try to make a little coin along the way," and with that, she throws him a wink.
'Defend my honor.' Hearing conversation behind him Seamus turns, 'Master Locksmith??? His eyes widen and he misses a string on the happy little fighting song.'Meat shields? place bets? Out here in front of the gods and everyone.'
Blinking his eyes, Semus looks at Tiaser, and in elvish <"Locksmith? Would you discreetly tell her I would just as soon not have to explain why I have that skill to Hemlock? So mum's the word."> He looks from the elf to the red hair girl with glasses, calming himself he finally smiles. "It's a pleasure to see you again, Gherix," He gestures towards the women. "and sadly, this was entirely their idea."
'She speaks... of course she does, she's an academic....' Closing his eyes, as he mentally kicks himself. 'Handsome ...woman's heart? I don't know that anyone will believe it, but at least it gives what Zandu would call 'plausible deniability.'
Breathing a little easier he nods. <"Thank you, I think, Bed chamber, that was a bit of a stretch."> He gives her an honest smile, then changes the subject. "So after the festival, shall we start with a tour of the old Thassilon light house?"
Turning her focus back to Seamus she asks, what's the name of this piece you're playing? Quite fitting for the sparring mood,[/b]" and she gives him a wink as she feels she's just shown the apparently more well-traveled fellow that she can handle herself in a social setting, at least.
She then adds in, to hopefully get another rise out of Tiasar, "Maybe you can play some nice dancing music when we get to the inn and the old timer here can take me for a spin around the dance floor," and she bats her long lashes at the Elf again.
'You can't kid a kidder, I live with women who happily tell me what they think.' Seeming to focus on the music, Seamus leaves the comment alone as he continues to play for the Meg, Kizzy, Tot and anyone else who has joined for the sparring.
The name of the song?' He shrugs, "I guess it depends who you ask, The Varisians call it "Shipping up to Korvosa" But I think the halflings call it "Birch Switch"" He shrugs, "It's the same tune, just different lyrics."
Rolling his eyes when she winks, 'Some nice dancing music?' he shakes his head as she bats her eyes at the 'academic' "I have every intention of doing so." His stomach growl, "I'm going to ask the Innkeeper if I can play for my supper."
Rosella was tired from the long walk to Sandpoint, but she didn't want be seen as someone who passed up on training. "Sure, why not?" she replied to Vin, with an enthusiasm that she didn't feel. She approached the other participants and offered to join in the session.
The inn the second night is smaller (just two buildings) but there is something of a wall between the buildings which are also built to be somewhat fortified on the ground floor (small windows, higher up). As before, most folks hunker down near their gear or wagon, but it’s a pleasant night this night at least - the cold autumn rain having long passed. The stars are beautiful even through the torchlight of the compound.
The Crownflower Inn is lovely, with a warm common room well supplied with its namesake flower (link) spreading its fragrance throughout the building.
The next day, the caravan gets its start as before, lurching on as you proceed toward Sandpoint. As the sun climbs higher in the sky, the excitement begins to grow! By the time you stop for lunch, as much to give the animals a little break as anything else, those going to Sandpoint are growing more animated. After all, tomorrow you’ll be celebrating with the butterflies!
- - -
Hasslo Holt
Seamus Passeri (post)
Kronk the Cook
Tiasar Soseshtian
Qetsiyah Kizzy (post)
Rastaf of Sarenrae
Gherix Vainglory (post)
Margareta ‘Meg’ Alekto
Verona of the Wilds
Toblacane Alemardo
Vindur Minhu (post)
Marku Serbanescu
Titania Olivia Thrune
Magnus the Magnificent
Grimmald Moonwatcher
Chaetris Admeroi
Emerik Albaras
Rosella Marcu
Izomandakus
If you are not on this list and feel you should be, or there is some other error, please let me know and I’ll correct it. Thanks!
- - -
She is quite pleased with the idea of sleeping in a warm bed and eating a hot meal, but even more eager to make sure she gets those things for free. Walking up to the innkeeper and smiling wamrly, she says, "I know there's normally a charge for room and board, but you'd be willing to give those to me for free, right?"
And assuming Seamus follows through with some dancing music, Gheri at least tries to convince Tiasar to take her for a spin around the dance floor. If he won't, she's confident the older fellow she heard responding quite warmly to Kizzy's verbal assault would be willing to take a trip or two around the dance floor.
She approaches Magnus with a smile and says,"I don't suppose you know where a gal could find a good dance partner, do you?" and throws him a wink.
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"Four ladies, forces of strength and will
Whose beauty's only matched by their skill
Shall take the field of honor here
No time for timidness or fear
And who the victor here shall be?
The crowd has gathered round to see
The victor if she wants, perchance,
Could be rewarded with a dance""
And finishing this, he gives a bow and a wink to the competitors after which he turns to Seamus saying, "We might want to work up a number or two for the festival. Could probably make some decent coin," and gives the lutist a confident nod.
Sipping on the beer with a wince - badly sealed cask, he guessed - he settled to watch the bout, reaching up with one hand and touching the holy symbol around his neck. Dawnflower, please be merciful to those who wish to train there bodies here. Allow them to escape without harm and for no feelings to be soured. And that no one does anything stupid.
Still, the towering man radiated a combination of anxiety and interest in the bout.
She hadn't landed a hit herself yet, but she was making it very hard for anyone to hit Meg at least, and that really was the skill she wanted to showcase here.
She cocked an eyebrow at the pretty-boy bard and scoffed at the line about beauty. Who does he think he's fooling? But that was performers, for you. They never let a crowd go to waste or missed a chance to steal the show. Shaking her head with an amused expression, she reached down and pulled a lace free from her boot, releasing the strung bells from their binding. The constant jingle-jangle was a ear-ringing clamor on the trail, but now they would contribute to the battle cadence that Seamus and Vin were performing in time with. She stomped her foot and clapped her hands nodding to the group surrounding to get them going on the rhythm too. "Alright ladies. Let's show them how we dance!"
'Ah the poet.' Seeing movement in his peripheral vision, Seamus notice Vindur move near and nod. Giving him a polite nod back, Seamus is a little surprised when the man starts to speak in rhythm accompanying his playing. 'Hmmm, probably doesn't know the words for the Varisian song or the ....rewarded with a dance?' Continuing to play, 'I wonder if that really works.' He looks over at the man as he bows, 'Probably does for him.' Smiling to himself, 'If were lucky, Rastaf will decide to compete.'
'It looks like they've decided to stop.' As the sparing comes to an end, Vindur begins to speak. 'Might want to work together?' abruptly stopping his playing, Seamus blinks. 'I'm not sure it's a good Idea to have someone around who may actually notice me 'casing' potential victims.' Smiling, Seamus pulls on the collar of his vest. "Um, I usually play for a very rowdy crowd down by the docks, I'm not sure they would enjoy your poetry." As an idea dawns to him. "You would probably be better received up by the Play house. That's where all the rich patrons are, With your charisma I'm sure they'd notice you." He presses his lips together, then frowns, tilting his head slightly. " But sadly I've already made a commitment, so I must refuse."
'Thank Calistria were here.' Realizing they have arrived at the inn, Seamus switches his lute to his left shoulder, "Pardon me Vindur maybe I'll see you later. " He pauses at the door long enough to note the sign, 'The Crownflower inn, lovely flower I wonder why they name it that.' as he opens the heavy oak door and steps over the threshold he smells the aroma of the flower and smiles, 'I think I've figured it out.'
'Better to ask forgiven than permission.' Moving into the room he takes it in at a glance. noting the light coming from the high windows, lanterns on the wall and an antler chandelier in the middle of the room. 'The windows are small and the shutters have murder holes but there is plenty of light." He walks past the square oak tables each with four bent back wooden chairs and a ceramic vase with one Crownflower. 'The tables are clean and the chairs are in good repair, no dirt or even sawdust on the floor.' He pauses in the middle of the room, his back to the well stocked bar, facing the large stone fireplace with plenty of floorspace in front. Smiling to himself. "Ah the perfect spot.' As he moves to the fireplace he removes one of the bent back chairs from it's place at the table, setting it beside the fireplace, Breathing a sigh, he drops his rucksack beside the chair. Removing his wool floppy hat he drops it on the floor, taking out his ponytail, running his finger through his hair. Ah, That's better.' smiling as he sits on the chair, using his foot he nudges the hat to the side to make it easier for folks who aren't dancing to put tips in. Then smiling, he begins to play.
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Sorry for the delay. Was a bit busy this morning. Since this is now a tournament, perhaps we should make it official, or we can do what Kizzy's suggested and go 2v2.
1) Fights are on a point system. First to three wins.
2) Points are scored by hitting with an attack or combat maneuver.
3) Attacks deal no damage, just to keep things friendly.
4) A fight ends when one combatant scores three points or pins their opponent.
5) Even though there's initiative, if both combatants score three points in the same round, it's a draw.
I'm all for any feedback y'all have. I was trying to keep it simple but interesting. If we're okay with the rules, then I think we can just do this classic, single elimination style.
Fight 1: Rosella vs. Meg
Fight 2: Tot vs. Kizzy
Tot sets her feet and squares off against Kizzy and Meg. She has her staff in hand, figuring it would be better to use it than her sword. She nods to her opponents, letting them know she's ready.
Tot isn't slow, but Kizzy's speed surprises her and before she can start moving, she's on her heels trying to get out of the line of her punch. She loses her breath in a woosh that sends her stumbling back. Before she can move in and attack, however, Rastaf makes a good point.
"S-sorry," she wheezes. "I think we got carried away."
She looks to Kizzy and bows in respect.
"That was a good punch. If this had been a real fight, I might be in trouble," Tot says, "Would you be up for a full match at the inn?"
You're playing with fire. You're going to get burned.
She'll beat you soundly, then who will want to hire you?
"W-we could have some fun with it, make it into a bit of a tournament," she says, the nervousness back in her voice.
Whether or not the others accept her proposal, Tot is glad that they'll be at the inn soon. The promise of a hot meal is one that she's all too grateful for. Even with her doubts about her skill, she was looking forward to sparring with Meg, Kizzy, and the girl she didn't know. It had been too long since she has really been able to spar with anyone, and after a little bit, she drifts over to the other young woman that had taken up the offer to get a little practice in.
"Um, h-hello. I-I'm Tot. M-may I have your name," she introduces herself to Rosella.
Tot squares off with her opponent while Rastaf explains the rules. She'd asked the innkeepers if they had any wasters and was mildly surprised to learn that they did. Taking up one that was the closest to her longsword in weight and balance, she was feeling a little better about her chances in this bout.
Tot, feeling better after some food, finds a place to settle down where there's a bright light that she can see by. After looking around, she pulls out a leather roll and unties the thong keeping it closed. Inside is a carefully packed set of quills, a bottle of ink, and a well-loved journal. Flipping through the pages of writing and sketches, she finds the next blank page and carefully prepares one of the quills. She closes her eyes and pictures the people she's seen today and begins to draw them. The space between the portraits are filled with a delicate script.
Tot spends most of the morning keeping to herself. After all the attention yesterday, she feels a little worn. The excitement growing around her has her curious about just how many people will be coming into Sandpoint. She knows the town is on the smaller side, but to hear some speak, the festival must host thousands. Curiosity gets the better of her, and she slowly slides up to someone she thought she heard say they leaved in Sandpoint.
"G-good day, sir. A-are you from Sandpoint," she asks Magnus.
Meg is surprised at how quickly Kizzy moves as well. The handsome woman's immediate instinct to protect her is also flattering. That it happens to pull a slight flutter out of her chest is a matter for Future Meg to deal with. Present Meg instead takes the opportunity to agree with Tot. The young woman is clearly much more talented and wise than she believes, and a bit of encouragement would do her good. "Ah, yes. I think a more constrained format would indeed be ideal. I hear there are goblins about and we would not like to be seriously injured should they decide to have little bout of their own!"
Meg took the opportunity for cheap ale well. It was not what she wanted, but it would do to keep her in her preferred constant state of buzz. She considers herself a functional alcoholic, specifically in that she is an alcoholic who is capable of going to functions. She just needs something to smooth out the world during the hard bits. Yes, she has not been entirely sober since That Night Four Days Ago, but it is a particularly stressful time. She drinks enough to keep herself in a haze until well past midnight.
When she finally returns to her room, she takes care to make sure that she is completely alone and that everything is locked and put away before she peels off her wig and washes off her makeup. She stares at herself in the dirty, scratched inn mirror. How long is she going to have to keep up this charade? Weeks, months, years, the rest of her life? Does she even want to go back to being Valena?
To others, it might seem callous that she would so easily take up Meg's name and identity, but Valena meant it as an honor. Meg was a good woman who treated her and her children well, and she did not deserve what was done to her. Meg's life was worth more than Valena's, and at least this way she could keep her alive in a fashion. Even so, she had met Meg's parents only twice before, so she has no idea how they would react to their daughter's (falsely-accused) murderess wearing her name. Valena's stomach still churns as she thinks of how the bodies were found. As she read it in the paper, Corioles gave the scene all the crazed rage of a crime of passion. He told the police that Valena suspected him of an affair with Meg and that he was planning on leaving her. Either he had been planning all of this for some time, or he is much more practiced than she ever knew. She thinks back to Meg, and while she knows how dizzy she felt as she read about Eudora and Euphemia, but she thinks she cannot even begin to imagine how actually decent parents would feel reading the same about their daughter.
As she crashes into the hard mattress, in the few moments before she falls into a restless sleep, she begins wondering if she should dye her hair. She likes being a blonde. It suits her.
Meg stares down Rosella. Something about Meg's big eyes, her soft and coy smile, the unblinking but calm stare, or perhaps all of it together comes together to make Rosella feel relaxed. She is going to be taken care of. She simultaneously feels more grounded, more in her body, as though resting upon a comfortable raft on top of a calm pool, the sun coming down on her. She feels everything a bit more strongly, both the good and the bad. With Rosella relaxed, Meg begins with a quick probing flick of her rapier.
Qetsiyah turned her scowl on Rastaf as the action halted, crossing her arms and blew out her lips in a horsey sigh. Then she muttered something in halfling. "Leuke ruïne." which roughly translated into "Party pooper."
She had really only intended something a little informal and fun. But there was no point in arguing, the Inn was very close now, so Kizzy merely picked up the pace to reach their destination so she could get on with things. She didn't say it was a race, but she turned to look over her shoulder as she jogged on, jingling with every other step, to see who was with her, her wavy hair blowing in the wind along with the filmy ends of the diaphanous scarlet dancing scarf she tied in her hair.
"Dig in everyone! You've all earned it." She said cheerfully and then did exactly that herself, with the gusto of a halfling denied half her day's meals.
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Rosella replied to the woman with the unusual name of Tot, "I'm Rosella, pleased to meet you." She extended her hand in friendship.
Rosella knew there were various different types of parring competitions, so she asked Rastaf, "What will the rules be?" She carefully wrapped her sword to avoid seriously injuring someone.
She participated in the group melee, holding back a bit at first and observing how the others fought. The dark-haired woman called Tizzy seemed to be particularly adept at deflecting blows directed at her team-mate.
When it came time to face off against Meg, she help her sword before her for a brief silent prayer to Iomedae, Let me become one with my sword, and conduct myself with honor. She a saluted her opponent and focused her attention.
Meg thrust first; Rosella barely dodged, and replied with a stroke of her own blade.
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"
A musical marvel from his head to his boots
When there's silence he fills the void with his lute
His wonderful talent, he'll doubtless be famous
Our mystical musical mood setter Seamus
A lady with such lovely hair
A daring fighter who's passing fair
Meg finds her god's decrees quite dandy
So hide the wine and lock up the brandy!
Our Magnus the Magnificent
Whose younger days are all but spent
Is livelier than those half his age
And true love set his heart ablaze
Our unassuming giant slayer
For Sandpoint's safety a major player
A humble warrior, not full of pride
Just try not to get on Rosella's bad side
A gentle priest of Sarenrae
With apples to help us on our way
Rastaf's kind to strangers as to neighbors
Generosity, the fruits of his labors
I hope she feels good to be included, not uncomfortable
Our tiny Tot a warrior fair
Beasts that threaten Sandpoint beware
The innocent she will defend
And I'm pleased to call her my friend
This one has a partner never forsaken
Quite good so he doesn't end up as bacon
Izomandakus chose to come along
And will be blamed if all the cookies are gone
Qetsiyah also known as Kizzy
With dancing bells could make one dizzy
A wondrous sight as her weapon gleams
Our warrior lady dancing queen
And now at last we're here to dine
Not waste time with this poet's lines
A joy it's been to meet you friends
But here, for now, my poem shall end
And with that, Vin takes a bow and returns to his table, possibly giving a flirtatious wink at a serving girl if one is around.
@Kizzy: I'm fine with that. 2v2 to warm up, then the tourney.
@Rosella: Touch would make more sense, but I'd rather do it against full.
@All the Sparring peoples: This is going to be confusing if we don't have some sort of order to this. I know Rastaf's the in game referee, but I hope y'all will allow me be the proxy GM for this. Besides, I could use the practice. :D
1. Please indicate which match a roll is for by putting them into a different spoiler.
2. On the first turn of a match, roll initiative then your actions.
3. I'll keep track of points. First to three wins. :D
Rosella and Tot: 0
Kizzy and Meg: 0
Kizzy: 20
Meg: 18
Tot: 15
Rosella: ?
Meg: Score - 0, Initiative - ?
Rosella: Score - 0, Initiative - ?
Tot: Score - 1, Initiative - 21
Kizzy: Score - 0, Initiative - ?
Tot watches Meg and Rosella square off and decides it's better to keep Kizzy off her partner. Not as light on her feet as she could have wished, Tot darts in and chops with her sword, testing Kizzy's defenses, before shuffling back and starting to circle around her opponent, hoping to divide Kizzy's attention between defending herself and Meg.
Tot can't help but laugh as she finds herself across from Kizzy yet again. She salutes the other woman before getting ready for Rastaf's call to begin the match.
Unlike the previous fight, Tot goes straight for the grapple. Her sword bats away Kizzy's while her shield blocks any defending strikes the taller woman can make with her other hand before Tot drops both sword and shield to wrap her opponent around the waist and kick her feet our from under her.
Starting the match off cautiously, Rosella probed Meg's defenses.
She then calls out to Meg, "Oh, you're gonna lose this match, blondie! Little Tot's ferocious," .
Notincing Vilnus did not answer his question, Izomandakus raises an eyebrow but answers him "Oh, Pachemu was a great support to me when adults and other children were total jerks during my teen years. I spared him from the butcher, and we have only bonded tighter from then on" he looks inquisitively at the man hoping for some explanation on his previous work with animals, expecting the uncomfortable silence will crack his caution and loosen his tongue.
At the inn he orders a cup of ale and yawns bored while some of the travelers decide to stab one at each other after the tiring day of walking. Izomandakus, though, arches an eyebrow impressed by Rosella's loyal temperance and takes good note of whom to trust in the caravan. When the martial show finishes, he does enjoy Vilnus music, and observes with interest Gherix dance with Magnus while grabbing a bite of fried potatoes seasoned with mayo.
That night, Izomandakus pays with big silver coin for the best room available for him and Pachemu. What is done in the room is kept within the four walls, but those close enough can hear tapping and beating, some "Oink oink!" and "Spoiled pig, stop protesting!" until late at night.
During the breakfast he gathers again with Vilnus "Look what I brought for the festival. I think I can complement the show you are preparing" the young man opens a small bag and shows a few star candle fireworks, then moves them apart and shows a big skyrocket firework with a wide smile "And this is the biggie. I crafted them myself. It's going to be a memorable Swallowtail Festival this year"
Verona wished the unfolding tournament between the caravan goers with nervous distress. She never could understand why people would engage in such duels for fun, but she did not intervene. The last time she had done that she had made a great big mess of things when she tried to stop two of Sandpoint's town guards from in engaging in a friendly sparring match. Even still, her hands were in her herbalist kit just in case some of her healing was needed.
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Kronk got back to Sandpoint and went immediately to rest. The journey had been more eventful than the usual, and for these past days he felt more alive than his past decade; being around all the excitement and youthfulness renewed his vigor and his spirits. He knew on the next day - for the festival - he’d go back to his routine of warming his belly against the oven cooking pies and fried food.
As he sought the usual humble room reserved in the back of the Hagfish for the employees, he crossed with different figures he had grown used to - and in each and every opportunity sought to start conversation and hear the news. In truth, however, he knew he needed the rest, so as painful as it was he pushed himself to find his straw bed.
He also makes sure to throw a glance Tot's direction to try to make sure she doesn't feel uncomfortable.
Heading back to his table, possibly having winked flirtatiously at a serving girl, he says warmly to Rosella, "Thanks, Rosella. I appreciate the encouragement," and he reaches out, takes her hand, and places a gentle kiss on the back of it.
The next morning at breakfast, he is shown some impressive-looking fireworks by Izomandakus. "Well, my friend, I imagine you'll capture the imagination of all the children and a good number of the adults with those! Do you commonly do firework displays, or is this anew venture for you?"
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Rosella and Tot: 0
Kizzy and Meg: 0
Kizzy: 20
Meg: ?
Tot: 15
Rosella: 6
Meg: Score - 1, Initiative - 18
Rosella: Score - 1, Initiative - 9
Tot: Score - 1, Initiative - 21
Kizzy: Score - 0, Initiative - ?
Kizzy and Meg haven't posted their actions for the 2v2 bout, or I've missed them. Meg still needs to roll initiative for the 2v2 bout.
Kizzy hasn't posted her action nor rolled initiative in her bout with just Tot, or again, I've missed it.
Rosella and Tot started off by probing defenses and positioning themselves for a better tactical advantage.
Meg opened up with a charming smile followed by a quick lunge that caught Rosella off guard (15 beats Rosella's flat-footed AC.) Rosella countered and scored a touch, evening the standing.
Tot opened up with a rush and went straight into the grapple. Using ehr lower center of gravity to her advantage to put Kizzy off balance.
Tot blinks as Vindur starts turning into various members of the caravan, but she is in no way prepared for when he starts naming her a hero while taking her form. As much as he might wish for it to be something to boost her confidence, Tot shrinks into her chair and looks like she wants to disappear.
The innocent you will defend? Ohohoho! If he only knew!
What would he think of the "music" you've made? Don't you remember the sound the boy's finger's made?
He wouldn't be so quick to call you friend if he know how much like those monsters you are.
The poor girl is thoroughly embarrassed.
After reading some of the posts and Kronk's comments, I realize that I may have made some people uncomfortable with this tournament, and I don't mean the PCs. For that, I give my humblest apologies and ask that you'll forgive me for that. I didn't consider it PvP, just having some fun like if our characters were playing cards or knucklebones. To me, PvP is when you have intent to cause harm. That's why I set up the tournament the way I did. I wanted people to have fun and be able to roll some dice, but I didn't want to try knocking each other out.
Again, I am sorry that I made anyone uncomfortable.
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Rastaf had trained many clerics, both male and female. Men tended to rely on their upper body strength, slashing and thrusting with great force. Women, having less (usually), used their lower center of gravity and legwork to land blows, using balance and finesse to beat stronger foes with more reach. These girls were naturals.
While such combats aren't enjoyed by everyone, the half orc knew that practice was important, particularly to dedicated warriors. The best he'd seen practiced every day.
Tot seemed to be enjoying herself, at least while she was sparring, no longer consumed with her ghosts, at least for now, and that made him feel better. Vindur's improvised song was also fun, and the form changes gave it extra punch.
He resolved to get to know all these people a little better, if he could. A good time was had by all.
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I’m very interested in this recruitment, although I just now discovered it. I suspect that not having been around for the RP at all will likely hurt my chances but I’m going to try to put together an application over the (rest of the) weekend, if I can muster enough time.
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@ObviouslyCynicalWhiner: You're statement about that pile of vitriol you posted being your humble opinion is belied by the fact that you posted at all. I can't speak for everyone, but I've had fun and I've enjoyed figuring out my character as I've been posting. As for posting rate, I've been on vacation all week. I've had a good bit of time to post, and I don't think someone as experienced as GM Euan would expect us to be able to maintain this rate of three or four posts a day through the whole AP.
Seriously, though, if you can't just let us nerds have some fun playing without making snide comments, you're on the wrong board. Hope you figure out whatever's eating at you, dude. I'm going to keep playing and enjoying myself.
Yeah, a new place is nice, Covid makes the whole thing suck.
It's cool your mom and dad were aware of the test, I think it's reasonably accurate but like all things knowledge is only a part of the solution. So I test out either ENFJ or ENFP, the last time I took it came back ENFP with the prospecting at 56 %, the rest are in the 60's or 70's, I think the difference tends to be based on what I'm focused on at that time of my life, When I was a manager it went one way, when I worked in a treatment facility it went the other, I stay home now taking care of my mom, so my focus is similar to when I was at the treatment facility. not sure any of that really means anything.
It's interesting that you and your wife are so similar, I don't know if that would make it easier or harder to be with someone, not that I think it needs to matter. My wife is ISFJ which is funny because on the site I use they call it "Defender." My wife's name is Sandra, a derivative of Alexander, which means "helper and defender of Mankind" so it's a bit of a running joke for us. Sorry I digress.
Building characters, gosh, there's only a few types I really like to play, they usually boil down to the hero's and antihero's, so really only six or seven 'types' of characters (in the literary sense not the 'class' sense'). But I try to write the backstory so it matches the crunch and so the characters are interesting to me. I figure If I'm interested in them I'll write well enough that others are interested in them as well. The one thing they have all had in common is I like to begin as a 'hero's journey' so they all are reasonably young.
'Watch this? I wonder what she has in mind... blondie?' turning to the 'academic' "Did you just use magic on Meg?" Looking from Gherix to meg, he looks back at the witch.''Maybe she did use a hex or something on Rastaf earlier today.' Smiling, "So what did you do?"
'I wonder what he's up to.' Seeing Vindur getting up from his table, Seamus watches him make his way to the front by the fire place. As Vindur starts "Ladies and Gentlemen" Seamus stopped playing, sliding his lute to his shoulder, picking up the chair with one hand and his coin filled hat in the other. He puts the chair back at the table he got it, nodding to the couple there. Moving to he side of the room as Vindur starts, 'A bit of verse and magic does he do... that's ... me, my face, my voice... wow' Raising his eyebrows when Vindur's face changes to Megs. ' and Meg....OK, I'm impressed and the old guy, wow.' as the faces continue changing, 'Maybe I should have let him work with me, I'll bet I could talk him into a life of crime, with that face and my ability to take on the likeness of a human we would never be caught.' When Vindur finishes, Seamus carefully puts the hat on his head without losing any of the coins and begins to clap and wolf whistle shouting.
As Vindur returns to his seat, Seamus proceeds to the bar, taking his hat off and dumping the few coins on the counter, sorting the many coppers from the few silver, he smiles and asks the girl at the bar, "How much for a bowl of stew and a glass of water?"