Welcome to Phaendar. A collection of a handful of stout wood buildings amid the more plentiful shanties and temporary wood shelters 300 yards from the southern reaches of the Fangwood Forest, home of the Chernasardo Rangers, that guerilla force that had been fighting against the militant autocracy that is Molthune for years now.
The bridge across the Fast flowing Marideth river was in repair with scaffolding supporting one side and stone and woodpiles indicative of much work yet to be done to make the bridge safe . A crane sat near the bridge.
The market green was jammed full of wagons and tents from all ends of Nirmathus.it was Market day this 16th of Desnus on Oathday. The 3rd Oathday of the middle month of every seasonal quarter marked the day when traders from The far reaches came to Phaendar to make deals, sell wares, spread news and generally enjoy company.
The threat of war always on the horizon with this border town on the frontier with Molthune, whose border was a mere 45 miles away.
Many times the people of Phaendar had fled into the Fangwood after seeing approaching raiders coming from across the plans south of them to return when the enemy had left.
But today was not such a time. Every manner of gear was to be had, and the retired Ranger Aubri Green walked through the Market laughing and sharing tales.she was a local legend, returning home after years of fighting, her right leg a stout oak peg, which didn't seem to slow her at all, a testimony to the reason she retired.
To say the market was a festival would be overstating it...but just as well to say it wasn't special would be an understatement.
It was a few hours before dark on the first day of the meeting, and soon Aubri would retire to the inn to buy many a round and tell her stories, so.ething most looked forward to.
So on this fateful day, a group text f newcomers to Phaendar, normally about 400 souls, now about 600 with all the merchants, found themselves enjoying the day of these easy going non judgemental freedom loving folk.
Today was a bright spring day. Today was a day to change lived
Eilyne had finished her most recent gathering of herbs to sell to Phaendar the night before and arrived in town early that day. The sheer number of people around, even this early, was daunting to her. She was far too used to the isolation of the woods and even before that she rarely interacted with anyone besides her mother and the occasional wandering fey that came to visit. Being surrounded by so many humans and such was more than a little daunting.
Eilyne was never comfortable in the town, her life in her mother's glade and the Fangwood left her surrounded by living things. Walking into a town like this was like walking into a cemetery to her. All the dead trees, the animals, at least the residents used all of what they took or they would be unbearable. Even the fey could understand such things, if they chose to accept them or not, and she was no different.
Eilyne felt every stare turned her way as she entered the village and it made her uncomfortable to say the least if not for the reasons people might expect. Her garments were made of leaves formed into a tight corset dress that left her midriff and a large expanse of bosom uncovered. Her legs were bare from her upper thighs down to below her knees where boots started made of leaves and soles of moss cushioned bark and a heel made of a thick stick. Her mass of red hair hung in a loose and somewhat messy fall down her back with vines of ivy woven through it for ornamentation.
Clad in living clothing she walked her way through town, a vibrant and gorgeous young woman would of course draw a stare from passersby, and the eyes of those locals were not as bothersome as those of the visitors. The locals knew enough to know that she was not what the garments might imply if they were made of the materials that they wore. The visitors did not have such an education and their gazes bothered her, not for the lust some contained but for the fact she didn't know them.
If it weren't for the greater value she could get for her herbs she would never have come to town that day and kept to the woods where she felt she belonged. She made her way to the temple of Erastil since it was one of the few places she felt remotely comfortable in the town and entered it without worrying about what might be going on inside. Safe from the crowd outside Eilyne breathed a sigh of relief and collected herself after that harrowing walk.
"There you go, friend, that will be five copper, thank you." Tarrow handed the wiry older man a sack of herbs locally sourced from the edge of the Fangwood and accepted payment with a practiced smile. The day was indeed pleasant by the standards of spring, and the sun shone warmly and bathed the gathered crowd in the Market Green.
The halfling had built a modest reputation in Phaendar, for his earnest work ethic and humble attitude. Some of that was for show; he was still haunted - and would always be - by the destruction of his home village and the murder of his entire clan at the hands of a goblin band, most of whom were also killed during the massacre. Work kept his mind and hands busy, and was the surest medicine for his spirit.
In turn, the villagers were kind to him, and appreciative of his product. He only knew a few precious formulas, but was a devoted herbalist and spent much of his days scouring the nearby hillocks and forest perimeter for plants to use in his poultices and concoctions. That he was experimenting with alchemical creations more practical to war was a fact he kept hidden from everyone, even Eilyne and Barhador, on the occasions he would encounter them in the wilds.
Market Day was for profit, to pay for his simple lodgings at the Inn and for bread and cheese and the occasional glass of beer. It was also when he practiced his other skills.
With his customer departed and his supplies fully exchanged for coin, Tarrow immersed himself in the crowd. The game was to not be detected by anyone, and to occasionally spot a particular bombastic or vulgar visitor to Phaendar and relieve him of the contents of his pocket.
Then he spotted Eilyne. She turned a lot of heads, and the less-constrained men from out-of-town let their raw, lecherous, feelings be known. It was a small effort to quietly approach one such distracted individual and deftly reach into the small sack hanging from his waist...
Ethan keeps himself busy throughout market day from sun-up to sundown. Upon waking that morning, he said his morning devotional to Old Deadeye, thanking him for the hospitality of his brethren at the temple, who provided him room and board. He then repaid their kindness by splitting wood and stacking the fresh logs for the kitchen, common room, and sleeping areas.
After breaking fast on porridge from the kettle, he headed out to the Green, making sure his symbol was visible in case anyone was injured or a mother went into labor. Though only a few hundred extra bodies, the excess of new faces made the tiny town seem like a bustling metropolis. He imagined the streets of far off Absalom being like this every day. How could anyone live with such noise and chaos every day? he wondered to himself.
Ethan traded smiles, greetings, and firm handshakes with the townsfolk, so glad they had opened their collective arms to him on his arrival. He spent the day doing what he could. If he saw someone struggling to unload a wagon, he offered to help. If he came across a child who had scraped a knee playing, he cleaned the wound and offered words of encouragement. He checked in on the mothers-to-be whom he knew were close to their deliveries and asked to their conditions, how were they sleeping, were their feet swelling, and so forth.
As the sun passed its apex, Ethan made his way back to the Temple of Erastil to rest from the mid-day sun and to grab something to eat. Entering the common room, he found Eilyne inside.
"Good day to you, Miss Eilyne. How are you today?" he asks her in a polite, friendly tone.
Yesterday had gone well enough that Barhador had to fashion a travois to get the dressed buck back to town. That meat and offal should cover a few nights room and board, the antlers ought to trade with the smiths for some new arrowheads, and the skin might put some small coin in his pocket. Seems like that was more important than he had hoped, as the additional traffic coming into the village had spooked all the older animals and it doesn't look like there will be a chance to duplicate that success today.
So the hunter changes prey. A smaller creature, one even harder to take, but more numerous and considered a pest by the farmers. Barhador turned to the edges of the farms to take rabbits. With the festival going on, he knows Jet could probably sell 30 rabbits over the next couple of days. He also knows how long it would take him to find that many. He manages to take 4 before lunch, thanks to how common they are near the farms, dressing them before heading back to The Root.
He turns the rabbit carcasses and offal over to the kitchen before he finishes cleaning the hides. Once that work is done, he acknowledges where he is enough to wash before taking the hides to Kinning at the Phaender Trading Company. He tries to smile and nod at people as he walks. "Ms. Blondbeard, some rabbit hides for you to go with yesterday's buck. Take them. Worry about how little they are worth after the festival."
After completing the pleasantries with the dwarf, Barhador steps back out into the street and looks around. He's been busy gathering supplies, so he didn't take the time to build an inventory of arrows, or even a bow or two, to sell. He decides to wander for a bit, see what everyone else has out, before turning back towards The Root for dinner.
Eilyne heard someone enter the temple and looked over to see Ethan as he greeted her. "Hello Ethan," she said in a soft and sultry sounding voice that was heavily accented like someone who only learned to speak the common tongue recently, "I am doing as well as I can with the crowd today. I needed a bit of time to prepare myself to go sell my herbs so I came here to find some calm first."
Ethan nods and smiles. "The streets are crowded. It was the Sun and my rumbling stomach that brought me back. I figure a bowl of stew from the kettle, a bit of bread, and a few minutes in the cool and I'll be ready to pull my weight again."
He walks into the kitchen and retrieves just that, a bowl of stew and a heel of brown bread. He takes a seat at the table and whispers a quiet prayer over the food. Before he eats, he asks Eilyne, "Is there anything I can do to help you with your preparations? I don't mind doing a bit of work while I eat."
Tarrow recoils as Brunner spoils his cover, snapping away just inches from his mark. How on earth...
He purses his lips into an insincere smile resembling a grimace. "Ahh, master Dwarf. Very goodday to you. Ranger Green retires to the Inn. I'll be heading there myself, actually. Should we go there now? I believe you owe me a drink."
Eilyne followed Ethan to the kitchen and sat at the table. She crossed her right knee over her left and said, "No, I have everything together I just did not expect so many people to be here, let alone so many people who are not locals." She gestured around her at the town in general and said, "It's bad enough you all live in an a graveyard of dead things but so many of you crammed together can make it very overwhelming sometimes."
Eilyne looked at Ethan curiously as he started to eat and asked, "You are a priest of a nature god, how do you stand living in someplace so full of death?"
"Life and Death are part of the cycle of nature," Ethan replies. "Predators often live in dens littered with the bones of their prey; saplings grow up out of rotted stumps; birds build nests from dead twigs and leaves to rear their young, and so it goes. We do much the same, just on a larger scale. What is unforgivable is taking more than you give. When an entire forest is cut bare for lumber; when mountains are carved away for gold; when lakes and rivers are emptied of fish, we ultimately pay for these sins by ensuring our own starvation and death," Ethan replies in a gentle tone.
"Erastil is not so much a god of nature as he is a god who understands nature and our connection to it. If he were a god of nature, he would see no horror in such things. He would teach that a creature that ensures its own death deserves to die. Instead, he asks that we look around, and see the bounty that is the natural world, the good things it brings us, and to make use of them while being careful stewards of it, so that our children and grandchildren may do so as well. I do not mind if the trees are cut down to make houses, but not planting trees to replace them, leaving the land barren and raw, is unconscionable."
Eilyne nodded in acknowledgement of Ethan's points but rebutted, "While much of what you say is true there is one significant difference you did not mention." Eilyne caught his gaze and said, "While animals kill to eat and sometimes leave the remains of their food nearby like the bones in a predator's den, they do not change the environment to suit them to the degree that the so called civilized races do."
"Beavers build dams, staunching the flow of a river and creating a pond that did not exist before. Badgers and rabbits dig underground warrens that undermine the solid soil. A bird's or hornet's nest is not a part of the tree in which it resides, and a towering termite mound is not part of the landscape until those industrious insects create it," Ethan replies, with no change in his gentle tone. "You are correct that there is a difference in degree and scale. Our impact on the natural world is greater, and thus our responsibility for carefully and respectfully using its resources is greater as well."
Eilyne nodded in agreement with Ethan's points but said a bit sadly,, "I agree, the problem is "civilization" rarely take that responsibility seriously, if they think of it at all, and it leads to greater devastation. They also take little thought to who might already inhabit an area and seem to think that those inhabitants, who do not build towns and ravage the land, are not people at all and their needs and desires are immaterial."
By the end Eilyne was obviously a bit angry about the whole idea but she quickly took a calming breath and smiled sweetly at Ethan, "Now, I think I feel much better, if you will excuse me I have herbs to sell." She rose from the table and headed back towards teh entrance to the temple. She hesitated before she opened the door and looked back at him over her shoulder, "I will be back this evening to rest and head out again tomorrow morning so I will likely see you later Ethan." With that Eilyne slipped out of the temple and re-entered the crowded street.
"Until then, may your day be fruitful," Ethan replies giving her a warm smile and she takes her leave. He finds himself contemplating Eilyne's words and her anger. If some people are selfish, does that mean all are, or must be? If some despoil the natural world, are all culpable? If the Old Man were here, he would have known just what to say. I'm proving to be a poor pupil. Perhaps I should stick to just doing what I can to help, and leaving the preaching to those with more gifted tongues.
He finishes his meal in silence, then rises and takes his bowl and spoon out to the pump and washes them. Once finished he leaves them on the rack to dry, and returns to the festival. He continues to help anyone in need in whatever way he can.
As the day comes to a close, it is clear that many people will be gathering at the Inn's common room to hear the stories of the Ranger, Aubri Green. Understanding the importance of shared stories to the strength of a community, Ethan decides to attend and lend his enthusiasm as she regales her audience with tales of high adventure.
Eilyna exited the temple and went to a nearby area designated for people to set up a front and sell their wares. She had little liking for a lot of the people but she still had herbs to sell and, though a part was save for the herbalist in town, she had brought plenty to sell. Eilyne may not care for civilization all that much but she did know that she had to deal with it at times and money was a requirement.
The greenery clad woman began getting the stares again but they didn't bother her as much this time as she walked to an empty stretch of grass near a large tree. The shaded areas were already taken but the one in the sun was not. She approached the tree and lay a hand fondly on it's trunk for a moment. It was almost as if the leaves rustled in greeting for her and Eilyne promptly began to move her arms as she gathered golden light and fed it down into the grass at her feet. The grass seemed to grow deeper and softer and she lowered herself down before unshouldering a pack on her back.
Eilyne ignored the people around her as she pulled out the bundles of herbs to sell and leaned back against the tree. To those who were new it would almost seem as if the tree was leaning towards her and shifting it's branches a bit to provide shade for her...surely not though. With her display of herbs set out Eilyne pulled out a small sign that said "Dryad Herbs" and set it in front of her officially open for business.
The raucous from all the people pounded the 1/2 Orc's insides as if he were stretched over a drum. Tossing onto his other side, he fidgets, fitfully (and, perhaps, foolishly) thought that he could actually catch some good, peaceful sleep!
For these last two weeks, I haven't really (maybe a bit) even thought so much as a tusk of The Bleeding Storm!
Arkhan glances quickly at the room's door. The 1/2 Orc has been staying at The Inn since arriving in town.
Seems sturdy...
The Druid pulls the blanket over his hairless head. The tortured tempo of the toasts and talks terminated any attempt at sleep.
Should be grateful that I am not in a stew pot!
Arkhan tosses the blanket off and onto the floor. Standing up, he easily reaches just over 6' tall. His Orc heritage portrayed by the green-gray of his skin, the sharpness of his ears, the wicked non-friendliness of his teeth. That, and the way he let's others know the fact that he is Orc!
Suppose that I could integrate myself a bit with the locals; now that there are other outsiders about.
Arkhan Silvinesti laughs.
Aubri Walked with a decided limp The Pegleg on her left leg reached to half way up her thigh. Folks had heard the Chernasado Ranger who was known to have been a skilled leader among those renowned guerilla fighters of The Fangwood, and had been among those to siege Fort Ramgate in Molthune before the Ironfang Legion had broken the seige and routed the Nirmathi forces there. She had lost her leg to a Minotaurs axe, and her friends had brought her out of the route to heal up. She had become a Priest of Cayden Cailean during her time of healing and now settled down in the village of her youth Phaendar. She had a white Ivory Staff she clung to and helped her maneuver. On her back a bow and a sword hung, her past not forgotten.
She was known for her carousing and tall tales, which always were entertaining, and had a kernel of truth, even if there was some embellishment.
She hobbled up to Eilyne's table near the tree and looked at Youth.
Hello...Eilyne isnt it? Ive seen you around, but of course have not met you until now. Im Aubri, as you are well aware of, Im sure. Would you happen to have some herbs for pain in among your selection. I do still suffer from the pain in my leg and of course my back having to lean on this staff day in day out.? By the way, are these really Dryad's herbs? Ive heard they don't venture far from their tree's
Arkhan walks by the window of his room at The Inn. The 1/2 Orc (studiously brushing his canines) catches a strange sight indeed!
While moving along the street, he notices Tarrow, the pleasant halfling who had purchased a rapier, moving through the crowd. The halfling seemed to be watching a young red haired woman who was dressed in what appeared to be leaves.
The Druid rubs his chin.
That's something!Arkhan finishes readying for his day of Introduction. The Druid wears burgundy-blood colored robes. He wears the hood casually, lazily up barely covering his head. Strapping his scimitar around his waist, placing his dagger in a midnight black boot, and slinging his pack across his decently built shoulders, Arkhan Silvinesti makes his way downstairs.
Passing by the barkeep (are they always cleaning a mug with a dirty rag?), the 1/2 Orc grins.
Thinking 'bout exploring the Festival. Any suggestions?
The Innkeeper waved at Arkhan as he came down the stairs. All smiles she said Just wander through the Market Green all sorts out there. lots of food samples. If you like what you eat, buy something to encourage them. You cant go wrong. Just make sure youre back here tonight for Aubri's tales. She's a retired Chernasado Ranger yanno. Always has some good tales. And all the beer you can drink on her tab She winked at Arkhan to let him know she knew what would matter there.
Eilyne looked up at Aubri's approach and nodded in greeting. She spent very little time in town but she had heard about Aubri. While Eilyne might not respect most "civilized" organizations the Rangers were one of those that she felt some respect for with the way they interacted with nature. Truthfully she had little complaint with the majority of the townspeople in Phaendar but the Rangers actually had her respect.
Eilyne nodded and said, "Yes, I have heard of you Aubri Green. It is nice to meet you."{/b] Eilyne thought about what the woman requested and she nodded and said, [b]"Yes, I have something that should help." Her hand went to a bark that was spread out amongst her wares and said, "This is white willow bark. Take only this much," she carefully broke off a small piece and said, "You can chew it or mix it into a drink. It should help."
Eilyne rose from her seat on the ground and held the bark out to Aubri and named off a price that was well below market value. She suspected that the woman would not accept it as a gift but she suspected a sizable discount would be accepted. "As for whether these are Dryad Herbs the answer is yes." She smiled mysteriously and then added, "I am a dryad after all and these are herbs that I gathered myself."
Youre a Dryad? How ever do you manage to stay away from your tree?. Then she looked at the willow bark and heard the price and she said. no my deay. You cannot give me that sort of deal. I am not without means. You simply must allow me to get a few days worth at your normal price. If it works Ill become a regular customer. Then we can talk of small discounts. ok?
then she looked at Eilyne closer. You simply must come to the Inn tonight. Id love to discuss more with you about your heritage . Please.
Eilyne nodded and said, "Yes, I am, and I do not have a tree. I am some rare type of dryad that is not tree bound." When Aubri caught her attempt to sell the bark to her at a low price Eilyne shrugged her shoulders causing her garment to rustle. "If that is how you will it regular price it will be." She accepted the coins and slid her hand inside a part of her garment that opened on it's own into a pocket and then sealed behind her hand when she withdrew it.
As Aubri suggested she come to the inn that night Eilyne seemed hesitant. If there weren't so many guests in town it would be alright. Unfortunately there was likely to be a large crowd there and she was not enthused about being among them. Still, Aubri had asked her and she felt that, if the woman would not accept the discount, then it was the least she could do to show her respect for a ranger. "I will come," she said, "but I do not promise I will talk about my past."
Fair enough. Thank you. See you tonight. She smiled and walked away.
The rest of the day went quickly and soon everyone was gathered at the Taproot Inn. Aubri was in fine spirits and was buying many a round. A few hours into it, the crowd started to thin, The food was good. The drink was better. The conversation was good and Aubri was telling a tale about a talking bear....
Eilyna had a successful day selling her wares and when things wound down decided that she would go ahead and go to the inn, at least for a little while. She ordered some stew and water and found a table where she could sit and eat. Fortunately she managed to find a place to sit and eat where no one else was at the time and took it, though she knew it wouldn't stay her's alone forever. Eventually some drunken fool would try to convince her that they were the best person to keep her warm that night. Sometimes it was a man, sometimes it was a woman, once it was a husband and wife, but there was always a fool.
Fortunately, before the fool could arrive, Eilyne saw Ethan enter the inn. She gestured for him to join her when he was ready. Eilyne was relieved she would have someone to serve as a buffer between her and the fools in the room. Given the number of looks coming her way she was sure there would be several such before the night was over.
Ethan nods in acknowledgement of Eilyne as she calls him over to her table. As he moves that direction, he gently catches one of the serving girls by the elbow and politely requests an ale. He then gives Eilyne a nod in greeting and takes a seat. He gives a word of thanks to the server as she brings him a mug of frothing ale. Ethan looks around and smiles. It warms his heart to see so many townsfolk and even several new faces congregating at the inn in a spirit of mirth and camaraderie. Shared food, drink, and story around a warming hearth fire; no chanting masses in the grandest cathedral of Andoran or Absalom could do greater homage to Erastil than this evening's gathering.
"How did your business fare at market today?" he asks Eilyne.
Arkhan returns the smile as the Barkeep gives her advice. The 1/2 Orc then ventures outdoors to meander about the vibrant little town.
He watches the out-of-towners, relating to those that are obviously not from Phaendar. The Druid wonders through the Green. He does indeed sample a variety of wares: Turtle soup, roasted peanuts, grilled asparagus dripping with honey, and even some dish from Tien.
This is something one could get used too!
The 1/2 Orc doesn't really truly engage with anyone during the day; except to listen to those around him; learning the mood of these folk.
The name Aubri Green greeted his ears often throughout the day. Supposedly a night of tales and beers were to be had at The Inn.
After a full belly, quenched thirst, and plenty of verbal seeds plucked; Arkhan does make his way back to sit in his usual table in the corner. The Druid watches those gathered to listen, drink, eat and be merry.
Far from Home this place is. Thank Rull!
Arkhan notices the strange Red-haired female talking to that Priestly fellow the 1/2 Orc has seen about town.
Interesting. Now, she is definitely not from around here either.
The elf wandered back into The Root, wearing some brightly colored bracelet some of the children had been trying to sell, and with his hair loosely braided, probably by somebody's child as well.
When he sees Eilyne at a table he stops where he is and looks about him at the crowded room. Then he moves directly to her table and takes a chair positioned to prevent others from pressing into her space, while staying as distant as he can and still be polite to the other patrons. He nods to the priest before addressing her
"I have to say, I am surprised to see you in here. I can't imagine this is at all comfortable for you. If you feel the need to get back outside, let us know," indicating Ethan and himself, "and we'll clear a path for you."
Hopefully, Barhador's surprise is clear enough to prevent any insult to Ethan.
Ethan nods and smiles in greeting to Barhador. "I would hope the citizens of Phaendar would know better, and that visitors would be more respectful of their hosts, but alas, as Miss Eilyne mentioned earlier, people sometimes do what they shouldn't."
Tarrow led Brunner through the front door of the Inn and made quick for his favorite table, the one with the mended chair that was two inches taller than the others, allowing the halfling to rest his elbows while he drank or ate. He tried to avoid Jet's steely gaze, but her eyes had a power all their own. In the next moment a barmaid was towering over him.
"Bertram down t'hall from ya says there's bad fumes comin' out yer room again, Mister Harfoot." Jenni, with her plump features and surly attitude, had never quite taken to Tarrow, despite his best efforts. Jet continued to stare him down from across the room, making him shift uncomfortably on his seat.
It was a dance. Tarrow not only paid his monthly rent on time, he chipped in whenever he could be of service, so complaints like this usually ended in a reprimand. A public reprimand.
"A misunderstanding, I assure you," Tarrow countered. "I believe our friend Bertram was coming down with a spring fever that affected his nose in a vulgar way. I offered to sell him a tincture but he declined. Nothing to be concerned with, unless we all fall ill, in which case, do see me for a remedy."
Jenni pursed her lips and shook her head, but that was the end of that, for now.
"Well now, Brunner, how about that pint?"
Ethan notices Brunner standing on a stool trying to get his attention. "I am well, how are you, Master Brunner!" he replies waving in acknowledgement. He turns to the other two. "Brunner's a good fellow. Do you object to my inviting him to sit with us?"
Eilyne nodded at Ethan's question about her business and said, "It went well. I made enough I won't have to return for quite a while this time." The thought of being able to stay away brought a slight smile to Eilyne's lips and she ate a bit of her food while those who joined them spoke.
Eilyne's gaze was pulled to Barhador as he spoke to her. He was right, she hadn't intended to be here until she met Aubri. After another bite of her food Eilyne said, "I met Aubri during the market today. She asked me to come here as she wanted to ask about my heritage. As she was one of the Rangers and I have respect for them I agreed." Eilyne's expression softened a bit at Barhador's offer to help her get out if she needed to and said, "Thank you, both of you," she looked at first Barhador and then Ethan, "I will keep that in mind."
Within The Taproot, many folks have gathered both for the free drink and to hear Aubri recount the bawdy tales of her youth. Outside the celebration continues, as raucous shouts carry on the night air. Warmed by firelight after a long day, any levity comes asa welcome reward to the rough earthen souls of this riverside trade town.
Aubri smiled and continued her story ...So there I am, thinking,when will I ever be able to talk to a bear again? So before the Grizzly can stand back up, I thrun to it and say 'All I need is the honey. You keep the Bees!'
The crowd erupted in laughter as Aubrin finished her winding story and she takes a pull on her tankard of ale. Then she added. But it's fine now. All's good. She named her cub after me. Someday Im going to have to check in on little 'ow-oh-gods-thats-too-many-bees'.
More laughter from the crowd, a few shouts and added sub-jokes. One of the waitresses, refills Aubri's tankard. as The Chernasardo Ranger says [B]All Right. All Right. Cayden strike me down if it isnt true!
at that moment outside a sound came that defied explanation. its as if the ground was tearing itself asunder, grinding wood metal and stone. The crowd glanced at the front door and began moving that direction. True to her profession Aubri moved towards the noise saying What the hell?! but before she could push the crowd to the door, It exploded into wooden shards, that pierced many of the guests. dropping them where they stood. Others ran up the stairs or out the back door as Aubri was carried to the far wall, a 4'long shaft of wood sticking out of her, pinning her to the wall near the fireplace. She's gasping and clutching her midriff where the bolt has pierced.
Three Hobgoblins in military dress stand by the shattered door blades drawn, Behind them a tower of black stone has appeared in the Market Green, pushing wagons, tents, and stalls aside like so much sand. Dozens of Non-Humans, Goblins, Hobgoblins, Bugbears, Minotaurs work to clear the way for hundreds of Hobgoblins marching out of a doorway. Theres shouts of agony from the rubble, and fear of those being chased by Hobgoblins. A banner flutters from the archeway where the foreign soldiers march from. Its a familiar banner to those who have fought in the war...The Iron Fang Legion is here in Phaendar.
about 60 feet from the open doorway a ballista is being reloaded by 3 Hobgoblins...
Initiative Order Bold May Go
20-Brunner
17-Jet
17-Jenni
15-Hobgoblins
15-Merchant
13-Aubri
12-Tarrow
11-Eilyne
10-Ethan
9-Arkhan
9-Bertram
7-Barholder
7-Warrior
Arkhan AC:16(FF:13/T:12)CMD:13 Saves-FO:6 RE:4 WL:8 HP:16/16
Druid {Storm/Rull} Male 1/2 Orc Defenses n/a
Barhador AC:15(FF:12/T:13)CMD:15 Saves-FO:+2 RE:+5 WL:+2 HP:9/9
1st Hunter {Feral/Green Faith} M Elf{Nestornor} Defenses-Immune to Sleep effects, Animal Focus, +1 Will Saves vs Vermin/Animals/Mag Beasts of higher level
Brunner AC:16(FF:10/T:16)CMD:14 Saves-FO:+6 RE:+0 WL:+4 HP:17/17
1st Paladin {Stonelord of Torag} M Dwarf Defenses:+4 dodge/giants
Eilyne AC:12(FF:10/T:12)CMD:12 Saves-FO:+4 RE:+4 WL:+0 HP:10/10
1st Kineticist {Plant} {Diety=undecided} F Human (Taldan) Defenses: 1xd heal 3pts
Ethan AC:16(FF:14/T:12)CMD:12 Saves-FO:+3 RE:+2 WL:+5 HP:9/9
Cleric {Erastil} Male Human Defenses-1xd heal 2pts
Tarrow AC:18(FF:13/T:16) CMD:13 Saves-FO:1 RE:7 WL:1 HP:10/10
1st Rogue {Chaldira Zuzaristan} M Halfling Defenses: Adaptable Luck:3xd, +2 to AC vs Goblinoids
Aubri AC:17 (FF:15/T:12)CMD:17 Saves-FO:+8 RE:+7 WL:+7 HP:4/49
3rd Ranger/3rd Cleric {Cayden Cailean} F Human {Chelaxian/Mwangi} Channel 5xday 2d6
vs
Hobgoblins (x3) AC:16(FF:14/T:12)CMD:15 Saves-FO:+5 RE:+2 WL:+1 HP:17/17,17/17,17/17
1st Fighter M Hobgoblin
Actually enjoying a pint, along with some delicious beef stew; the Druid busily devours his meal. The continuing scents drifting into the common room from The Inn's kitchen made putting up with this throng well worth it!
Arkhan glances about the quickly crowding common room. He sees the strange woman (along with the Priestly fellow) gathering quite their own throng; including now an intriguing tattooed elf.
Now that gentleman is most likely worthy of Rull's blessings!
The fascinated Druid then moves his attention to a well armored dwarf (accompanied by that same halfing from this morning) be called over to the table of the Priestly fellow.
Looks like I found the magnet.
Taking another drink of his ale, Arkhan continues his observations....
Suddenly, his reverie is interrupted by the explosion of The Inn's front doors! His startled blue eyes follow the back of Aubri, violently reversing her trajectory! The haunted 1/2 Orc's initial thoughts focus on the Bleeding Storm's arrival to take him back!
S$$+! F++@! Not...
As the frightened crowd begins to disperse a bit upstairs, out the back, or even just lying in a fetal position and wetting themselves upon viewing the neatly (and thanking Rull) uniformed Hobgoblins dramatically entering The Inn!
Arkhan actually giggles out loud, realizing it is not the Bleeding Storm. The Druid does have the sense to stop after only a few seconds...
The time loss in his delusions of roasting and boiling, of being flayed and strung up does prevent him from acting in an appropriately quicker fashion....
Brunner reacted quickly jumping down and interposing himself between Aubri and the Hobgoblins, taking a quick swing with his chain flail that swung through empty air, but gave the Hobgoblins pause.
Jet screamed and turned to follow the crowd out the back way she called out to Jenni to follow her., which the waitress did, dropping the tankards to the ground.
The three Hobgoblins advances, 1 towards Arkhan swinging his longsword at the half-Orc. The blade slit through the burgundy robe, cutting through Arkhans arm, leaving a bloody furrow.
The other two, one with a very nice backpack on its back, advanced toward Brunner trying to make short work of the defender. Two swords were blocked by the swinging chain. The snarled at him saying in the common tongue. Surrender. The Ironfang Legion promises to spare your life
The Merchant in her green finery, didnt scream like the other two, she merely spum and followed Jeni through the door, saying to her hired guard Follow Me Talbot!
Pinned to the wall, Aubri let out a small gurgle of pain and blood was running out of the wound.
Initiative Order Bold May Go
20-Brunner
17-Jet
17-Jenni
15-Hobgoblins
15-Merchant
13-Aubri
12-Tarrow
11-Eilyne
10-Ethan
9-Arkhan
9-Bertram
7-Barholder
7-Warrior
Arkhan AC:16(FF:13/T:12)CMD:13 Saves-FO:6 RE:4 WL:8 HP:6/11
Druid {Storm/Rull} Male 1/2 Orc Defenses n/a
Barhador AC:15(FF:12/T:13)CMD:15 Saves-FO:+2 RE:+5 WL:+2 HP:9/9
1st Hunter {Feral/Green Faith} M Elf{Nestornor} Defenses-Immune to Sleep effects, Animal Focus, +1 Will Saves vs Vermin/Animals/Mag Beasts of higher level
Brunner AC:16(FF:10/T:16)CMD:14 Saves-FO:+6 RE:+0 WL:+4 HP:17/17
1st Paladin {Stonelord of Torag} M Dwarf Defenses:+4 dodge/giants
Eilyne AC:12(FF:10/T:12)CMD:12 Saves-FO:+4 RE:+4 WL:+0 HP:10/10
1st Kineticist {Plant} {Diety=undecided} F Human (Taldan) Defenses: 1xd heal 3pts
Ethan AC:16(FF:14/T:12)CMD:12 Saves-FO:+3 RE:+2 WL:+5 HP:9/9
Cleric {Erastil} Male Human Defenses-1xd heal 2pts
Tarrow AC:18(FF:13/T:16) CMD:13 Saves-FO:1 RE:7 WL:1 HP:10/10
1st Rogue {Chaldira Zuzaristan} M Halfling Defenses: Adaptable Luck:3xd, +2 to AC vs Goblinoids
Aubri AC:17 (FF:15/T:12)CMD:17 Saves-FO:+8 RE:+7 WL:+7 HP:4/49
3rd Ranger/3rd Cleric {Cayden Cailean} F Human {Chelaxian/Mwangi} Channel 5xday 2d6
vs
Hobgoblins (x3) AC:16(FF:14/T:12)CMD:15 Saves-FO:+5 RE:+2 WL:+1 HP:17/17,17/17,17/17
1st Fighter M Hobgoblin
When the front door of the Inn explodes Tarrow falls out of his chair, spilling the pint of beer all over. He manages to land on his feet, and Brunner's cry of Hobgoblins instantly strikes a chord of fear through him. In that moment, all the screams of his family ring through his head, such that all the chaos in the room is drowned out.
His feet defy his sluggish head, and he jumps forward, following the dwarf into battle!
Move action, 15' then Aid Another to give Brunner +4 to hit (Helpful trait).
Round 1
Arkhan yells in pain, as the Hobgoblin's longswong slices him like a hot dagger through tender mutton!
Son of a b!@*&! Can't a fella enjoy a f%++ing pint in peace! S&~~-eating Hobgoblins!
The 1/2 Orc does the only thing available that only includes a 60% chance at success.
He moves further into The Inn.
The Druid then turns back around, creating a Storm Burst to appear about the Hobgoblin nearest the halfling.
Eilyne was actually enjoying herself a little when everything changed. The loud sound, the sudden explosion of wood, and Aubri getting pinned to the wall, shocked Eilyne. moved out from behind the table in a hurry and began to move her arms and body in what almost seemed like a dance. As she did so green-gold light began to move around her and teased a seed out from her garmnet. the seed rapidly grew into a large splinter of greenwood and then with a snap of her arms to thrust at her target the splinter shot out at the creature that Tarro and Arkhan were attacking.
Seeing Aubri badly wounded, Ethan runs over to her and tries to help her stay alive.
"Deadeye, preserve this daughter of fletching and stave," he intones, touching her shoulder.
As the world explodes in noise, vibration, and action, the hunter frowns, refusing to react before he can respond.
He begins moving an instant later, with everyone else. "Good call, Ethan, now she should survive the nasty part." Barhador moves over to the two of them, growing a little larger, with black fur, a muzzle, and tiny horns over his ears. He grabs the weapon pinning Aubri to the wall and works to pull it out of the wall, and hopefully out of her, too, without killing her.
Tarrow jumped down to join Brunner and feinted to try and help Brunner gain an advantage, The Hobgoblin ignored Tarrow's feint.
Eilyne jumped off her chair and magicked a seed into a splinter of greenwood which flew to stab into the Hobgoblin nearest Tarrow. The wood stuck into the chest of the Hobgoblin piercing him. He growled in pain.
Ethan moved next to Aubri and pushing against the wound with his hands which became soaked with her blood. He gradually stopped the bleeding.
Arkhan moved away from the Hobgoblin who had slashed his arm, eliciting another swing as he fled and the half-orc fell at Aubri's feet, from a slash to his hip. Blood was pooling up on the floor beneath him.
The Lumberjack, Bertam seeing what was going on fled out the back.
Barholder moved past Ethan to grasp the ballista bolt after manifesting the strength of a bull, and pulled it hard, from the wall. Aubri slipped into Ethans arms, barely breathing though her bleeding stopped. Her eyes we barely open, the internal injuries keeping her out of the fight. The Hobgoblin behind turned to focus on Barholder while watching the whirling chain of the dwarf.
The Warrior followed his boss out the back and around the corner.
Initiative Order Bold May Go
20-Brunner
17-Jet
17-Jenni
15-Hobgoblins
15-Merchant
13-Aubri
12-Tarrow
11-Eilyne
10-Ethan
9-Arkhan
9-Bertram
7-Barholder
7-Warrior
Arkhan AC:16(FF:13/T:12)CMD:13 Saves-FO:6 RE:4 WL:8 HP:-1/11
Druid {Storm/Rull} Male 1/2 Orc Defenses n/a
Barhador AC:15(FF:12/T:13)CMD:15 Saves-FO:+2 RE:+5 WL:+2 HP:9/9
1st Hunter {Feral/Green Faith} M Elf{Nestornor} Defenses-Immune to Sleep effects, Animal Focus, +1 Will Saves vs Vermin/Animals/Mag Beasts of higher level
Brunner AC:16(FF:10/T:16)CMD:14 Saves-FO:+6 RE:+0 WL:+4 HP:17/17
1st Paladin {Stonelord of Torag} M Dwarf Defenses:+4 dodge/giants
Eilyne AC:12(FF:10/T:12)CMD:12 Saves-FO:+4 RE:+4 WL:+0 HP:10/10
1st Kineticist {Plant} {Diety=undecided} F Human (Taldan) Defenses: 1xd heal 3pts
Ethan AC:16(FF:14/T:12)CMD:12 Saves-FO:+3 RE:+2 WL:+5 HP:9/9
Cleric {Erastil} Male Human Defenses-1xd heal 2pts
Tarrow AC:18(FF:13/T:16) CMD:13 Saves-FO:1 RE:7 WL:1 HP:10/10
1st Rogue {Chaldira Zuzaristan} M Halfling Defenses: Adaptable Luck:3xd, +2 to AC vs Goblinoids
Aubri AC:17 (FF:15/T:12)CMD:17 Saves-FO:+8 RE:+7 WL:+7 HP:4/49
3rd Ranger/3rd Cleric {Cayden Cailean} F Human {Chelaxian/Mwangi} Channel 5xday 2d6
vs
Hobgoblins (x3) AC:16(FF:14/T:12)CMD:15 Saves-FO:+5 RE:+2 WL:+1 HP:17/17,5/17,17/17
1st Fighter M Hobgoblin
Brunner capitalized on Eilyne's magic and gave a mighty head butt to the injured Hobgoblin, smashing the wooden splinter deep into the Hobgoblins chest. Blood fountained out over the dwarfs face and beard and the foe dropped to the ground.
Jet was talking to those who exited with her [spoiler=all perception 20]Thats right go down the ladder, we will pull it shut after us, its a hidden door. they wont see it.
Jenni Yes Ma'am
The Hobgoblin engaging Brunner followed him staying away from that spinning chain, bringing his blade in, once again the spinning chain's mace head deflected the sword strike.
The Hobgoblin that had downed Arkhan moved backward to block the door and attacked Barholder. The Elf saw him coming and dodged the attack.
Aubri growned with pain, slumped in Ethans arms.
The Merchant whispered Thank you Jet
Initiative Order Bold May Go
20-Brunner
15-Hobgoblins
13-Aubri
12-Tarrow
11-Eilyne
10-Ethan
9-Arkhan
9-Bertram
7-Barholder
Arkhan AC:16(FF:13/T:12)CMD:13 Saves-FO:6 RE:4 WL:8 HP:-1/11
Druid {Storm/Rull} Male 1/2 Orc Defenses n/a
Barhador AC:15(FF:12/T:13)CMD:15 Saves-FO:+2 RE:+5 WL:+2 HP:9/9
1st Hunter {Feral/Green Faith} M Elf{Nestornor} Defenses-Immune to Sleep effects, Animal Focus, +1 Will Saves vs Vermin/Animals/Mag Beasts of higher level
Brunner AC:16(FF:10/T:16)CMD:14 Saves-FO:+6 RE:+0 WL:+4 HP:17/17
1st Paladin {Stonelord of Torag} M Dwarf Defenses:+4 dodge/giants
Eilyne AC:12(FF:10/T:12)CMD:12 Saves-FO:+4 RE:+4 WL:+0 HP:10/10
1st Kineticist {Plant} {Diety=undecided} F Human (Taldan) Defenses: 1xd heal 3pts
Ethan AC:16(FF:14/T:12)CMD:12 Saves-FO:+3 RE:+2 WL:+5 HP:9/9
Cleric {Erastil} Male Human Defenses-1xd heal 2pts
Tarrow AC:18(FF:13/T:16) CMD:13 Saves-FO:1 RE:7 WL:1 HP:10/10
1st Rogue {Chaldira Zuzaristan} M Halfling Defenses: Adaptable Luck:3xd, +2 to AC vs Goblinoids
Aubri AC:17 (FF:15/T:12)CMD:17 Saves-FO:+8 RE:+7 WL:+7 HP:4/49
3rd Ranger/3rd Cleric {Cayden Cailean} F Human {Chelaxian/Mwangi} Channel 5xday 2d6
vs
Hobgoblins (x3) AC:16(FF:14/T:12)CMD:15 Saves-FO:+5 RE:+2 WL:+1 HP:17/17,5/17,17/17
1st Fighter M Hobgoblin
Eilyne was oblivious to whatever else might be going on with enemies still in front of them. She pulled in more of that greengold energy and called forth another seed. She rapidly shaped it into another splinter of green wood and sent it flying at the nearest of the bastards attacking the inn.
Unfortunately her strike slammed into his armor and failed to penetrate.
The Inn's flooring greedily slurps Arkhan's life essence....