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The VIllage of Hommlet, a small village of no real measurable note. The area around it though teemed with history. From the Bloody Dwarven Clan wars with govlins and Orcs, To the Last great Gnomish Expansion, to the mosst recent Battle of Emery Meadows that culminated in the Cult of Elemental Evils defeat by the arranged forces of good. This last was just some fifty years ago.
The area has been normally quiet aside the simple bandotry and creatures that roam. Infact since the Church has built a Tenple much more people has come in the past 40 years.
Archduke Renald Le'Satuer the ruler recently sent Burne and Rufus two powerful adventurers known for slaying the Orc Warlord Urluk Bloodspur and his clans to the highlands north to the area. Since the pairs arrival a standing gaurds unit has been formed and a proper castle is being constructed.
Because of this the town got even more skilled tradesmen. Gnome and Dwarf trade has increased and with help from the militia many of the minor monsters jave been repelled.
Recently in the past few years a half elven maid has come to the tower. She and Burne hit it off . A wedding is about to commemxe and the whole Village is celebrating.
Those who have been in the town, know of the beauty of Alyssandra and the love Burne has dor her. Those who have come back see the local trappings of a marriage with even more pompt and circumstances as the decorations span not just the Meeting hall, and home but also the whole town.
Like most visitors those in toen wait for friends at the huge sign of a Crudely depicted woman with open arms outside the large building. For those who know this is The Inn of the Welcome Wench.
What adventurers are you doing now?
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Kardin sat alone at a large table at the Welcome Wench. He was currently seeking the bottom of his second mug of ale. The dwarf had spent a long day at the masonry camp, working on repairing sub-par work. Even when done right, there was no way that it would ever be up to his standards. Humans. The word was synonymous with 'shoddy.' Still, their gold was as good as any, and they didn't quite care about what you did on your own time. Humans, as shoddy as their work was, were amazing when you wanted to be innovative. A word which insinuated 'dangerous' and 'foolish' in his own tongue.
He was waiting for his kinsman to arrive, who just so happened to be a halfling. If not for that, then he would be tinkering on his inventions. Inventions were, in many ways, shameful. Until they were finished. It was said that ridicule and shame were the anvil and hammer upon which any dwarven inventor was made. He had plans. Big plans. Plans that would bring him honor and praise. But he had to work on them, far away from the critical eyes of his people. It was a drive which had consumed him, and truth be told, it was a welcome break to do something different for a change. He hoped that he would not drink alone for too long, for while misery loved company, so too did joy. And what your drink led to often came down to whether you drank alone or not.
Having walked past the work sight Boram saw that the mason's were done for the day. He'd gone there earlier in the day and spoke with his cousin Kardin, who, too hard of a worker to take the day off, had told Boram to meet him at the tavern once the worked stopped. Boram had nodded and waived. It was a plan that suited him to the tee. He'd wanted to explore the town a little but felt he should find Kardin first and the round fellow with the long plaited beard told him Kardin was at the work sight so he'd headed there. Spending the afternoon walking around town he wanted to make sure he didn't look like he was casing the place. He certainly didn't want to give anyone the wrong impression, especially since he'd come to ask Rufus and Burne if they might know a group of adventurers who might need a 'Burglar.' So browsing through Rannos and Gremag's general store he'd dropped Kardin's name just to make sure everone knew.
Seeing the sign of the crudely depicted woman, Boram excitedly picked up his pace. He'd walked past an hour before but hadn't stopped, knowing his cousin wasn't there yet. Once he reached the heavy oaken door he paused for a moment, tugging the end of his leather jerkin to straighten it up, he shifted the frog of his rapier so when he went to sit down it wouldn't get in the way. Reaching up he opened the door and walked in the dimly light room. The smoke wafted towards him, the odor a mix of tobbac, stale beer and smoked meat. He smiled even if the sign was a human woman he knew this was his sort of place.
Recognizing Kardin across the room, he walked quickly to the table. Giving his cousin a jaunty smile he climbs up onto the chair, waiving an hand at one of the busy waitresses he sits down. As the waitress approached, knowing his cousin would be drinking the finest brew they had, he points towards Kardin's pint, "I'll have what he's having." Nodding towards the door, "Interesting place." He smiles "The town, Hommlet." Pausing for a second, he adds, "Not that the Inn isn't also, but I'm more interested in the town, especially the lord and his sheriff."
Nodding at the waitress as she puts the pint down, he sets a couple coins on the table. "They knew Harsk and my mom. Thought I might ask them if they know anyone that needs a good 'Burglar'." Sipping the ale he knew the term 'burglar' wouldn't shock Kardin. Dwarves always had a funny idea about Law and Order, but Kardin knew Boram only did 'legitimate' work. Wiping the froth from the ale off of his lip, he lets out a light belch. He was right, it was fine ale.
A local girl, one raised and familiar with the area, comes into town on the dusty road by herself. A cloak covers her head to keep the sun from her eyes it seems and the scarf tying her hair back was die a deep purple and gold, not the finest anyone had seen but clearly cared for and worthwhile. She seemed to speak to noone at first having to check different places to figure out that the only inn in town was still the welcome wench, a place she had never felt welcome at. Most people in town would most likely find her strange given she was looking intently around, almost as if she was going to commit some evil act, or at least she felt that way anytime someone started to look at her too long.
Keeping her hood on she goes into the tavern, scanning for some one it seems. The note in her hand said to met them at the town's inn, so that had to be here, and yet she stood about a bit nervous at first, as if a child expecting to be scolded for entering. Upon further look at her perhaps more than pretty face was framed by large frames of glasses, cracked and battered to the point it seemed by the luck of the Goddess she served they stayed in one piece. She quickly found an open seat, but the table was already housing two others.
In a voice that was much softer than her height and size would suggest, Herala calmly asks Kardin and Boram " Um... Um excuse me.. is that seat taken? I am looking for some friends of mine, but I happen to not spot them. Do either of you know Terion or Jairdan? I... I am a friend of theirs, I was not expecting this much of a party. Who is getting married again? The lord and some woman?" Her questions gave away that she may not be a local, given her lack of knowledge of some of the different people in the area.
Kardin smiled as his kinsman entered the tavern. Certainly his kinsman was short and couldn’t grow a proper beard, but he was kin nonetheless. ”Interesting?” He chuckled. ”Umgak.”* He responded. He raised an eyebrow at the talk of sheriff. ”Aye…something is different in them. As if there be something weighing on their minds.” He said, thoughtfully. ”Reminds me of Harsk, in a way. Could always tell when he was weighing up what to do before a job was announced. Could just be the upcoming wedding and I’m overthinking things. But this town-“
He stopped as tiefling approached. He squinted as he looked at her, the gears in his head obviously turning. ”Herala?” He asked uncertainty. ”Are ye the wee lass from the temple, the one with the glasses?” He asked, his memory going straight to the wondrous invention that were spectacles. He pulled a seat out for her to sit down. ”Gods above ye got big lass. Sit. This here be Boram.” Motioning at Herala he said ”Kith. Then motioning to Boram he said ”Kin.” Raising his mug he added ”Nay idea about the wedding, manling affairs and all that.”
* Umgak: Shoddy, poorly made; specifically something made by Humans
Terion stepped into the Welcome Wench and took a look around - in spite of his young age, he already sported a large beard, as disheveled as his mane of brown hair. He wore simple working clothes - being off from guard duties, he was not even wearing his armor, carrying only a sword and a dagger.
Some people nodded at him in recognition, and he greeted them back with a smile. Then he saw her.
"Herala!" - he lumbered toward his old childhood friend, picking her up from her seat and wrapping her in a fierce hug - "It has been ages!" - he roared, then holding her at arms length for a few moments - "It is so good to see you again after all these years" - he added, before hugging her again.
When the burly man managed to let go of his friend, he looked at the others at the table - "Sorry gentlemen, it has been a very long time since I saw my treasured friend here" - he looked at her again and shook his head - "You have grown. Heck, I have grown. Time just ticks on by regardless of our troubles I guess" - he chuckled.
"Well met Master Shieldshatter" - he greeted the dwarven mason with a nod, then turned to Boram - "I don't think we have met before - I am Terion" - he extended his hand.
Raising an eyebrow as Kardin calls the human village 'shoddy' Boram wasn't surprised that the perfectionist dwarf would see the town that way. But he was glad to hear his cousin had such a high opinion of the leaders.
Seeing the bespectacled girl heading their way, Boram gestures towards the bent wood chair, "Please, have a seat." Shaking his head as she asks about her friends, he wasn't surprised that Kardin knew the girl and as they were introduced, he stood in the too large chair and gave a polite bow. Winking at the girl, when Kardin calls him 'kin' he lifts his pint in salute, "I was adopted."
Hearing the girls name called from across the room, he turns in time to see the shaggy human. Making a note of the man's sword and dagger, as the fellow practically lifted the girl from her chair. Holding onto his stein as the entire table is jostled, Boram is not surprised that Kardin knows this 'townsfolk' as well, smiling to himself; for a grumpy dwarf his cousin certainly was friendly. As the scruffy human extends a hand in greeting, Boram sets his stein back down on the table, again standing in the chair, he extends a hand in return, "Boram the Burglar."
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The doors to the Welcome Wench were pushed open with a bit of effort, the newcomer slipping in through the small space that they had managed, their robe belted around their frame almost twice, a cap of tight curls tied under a homespun kerchief to keep it out of their face, and as usual— a book of one kind or another in a free hand. Small ink stains were at the lobe of their ear and fingertips, as bright brown eyes quickly flicked over the room, discarding the places the usuals would sit and landing on Herala. She was hard to miss in this room full of regulars, the grin that shone in that recognition lit up the whole room with a touch on something that polarized opinions of the scribe in this village.
"Gossamer" was a pretty adjective to use for Jairdan, though the steps that brought them across the room did not float, but they were quick and that was indeed a bit of a slide as they stopped almost too late, bouncing in happiness before they hugged her. Their grin was even wider at the tangible confirmation of the arrival of a friend long gone, now returned. Granted, their positions were swapped in a reflection of the hug that she had just received from Terion, as it was more likely that Herala could hold them at arm's length. There was also a spot of ink on the underside of the tip of their nose.
They did not say anything, only let go and gave them a once over while happily bouncing, their eyes alighting on the state of her glasses and giving her a stern look as best they could hold for nearly a second before it broke and the grin was back, albeit more moderate now that they realized they had interrupted.
"Oh... M'sorry, Terion.", giving a nod to their other friend, and an apologetic nod to Kardin with an expression that attempted to convey as much, holding the simply bound book to their chest. The other individual with Kardin was someone that they did not recognize. "Um.. Sorry, hi. I'm Jairdan." Their voice was soft, almost at the level where it would blend in with the tavern noise, and only seemed to trail lower.
Herala was caught by surprise having not seen Jardin in at least... Well it would be since she left to study magic when she had gotten older. That was what, ten years ago? Five maybe? She had been barely a teenager at the time she had went away, around 14, so the fact anyone recognized her was beyond belief in the first place. She did seem delighted that she has been remembered, and the letters they had exchanged had not been done with a begrudging nature. The hugs did surprise her but she accepted the hugs with grace, truly surprised. And both Jairdan and Terion being here was good news. She had so much to tell them, that she hadn't placed into the letters back and forth to them, but that may have to wait until a quiet moment, because not many of the locals would probably like to hear the news.
"It has been a great many years Master Kardin. I am surprised you remember me at all, though with my glasses the way they are," She looks over at Jairdan with the clear look of guilt of having NOT taken care of her glasses for years now, "I am frankly surprised I can see anything. I do hope someone in town can fix them. I had to travel a good many days to get here, and I didn't have time to find someone back home to fix them. Even the Temple it would have taken a few days.
She does wonder and even ask, having never met a burglar in person that she knew of. " Master Boram... What does one burglar that doesn't bring the town guards? Do you help out the old ladies who lock their doors with the keys inside?" She seemed to have no judgement on his work, mere curiosity over it.
With a sigh, and a small but friendly smile, Kardin motioned for Herala to pass the spectacles over to him. "Chat while I work." He said, turning his attention away from the group. Pulling his goggles down, he tapped them, causing them to shine light directly in front of him, illuminating the glasses.
Without looking, he pulled out his tinkerer's kit, and laid it out on the table next to the glasses. He always made sure that everything was put exactly in its place, which let him reach for a tool by muscle memory. Muttering a word of arcane power, a slight inner glow filled his tools as he went to work fixing the glasses. He began with a spell, colloquially called mending to ensure that the correct fixes were done. He then went about smoothing out the arcane changes, to bring the glasses up to his standard. . It did not take long before he was done. Tapping the goggles again to turn off the light. He pulled them up, put the tools away, and reached for his half empty mug.
Nodding politely to Jairdan, Boram gestures towards the open chairs, "Take a load off you two."
He chuckles at Herala's question sipping his ale as she hands her glasses to Kardin. "Please, not master, Just Boram. As for bringing the town guard, how could it?" Honestly perplexed, he hadn't realized the word 'Burglar' may have a negative connotation here in the 'boondocks'. "He smiles, of course I'd help someone enter their own home. A good burglar should be helpful in a lot of situations and a great addition to any group of adventurers. Whether they're into legitimate salvage, an elite military unite, dungeon delvers, spelunkers or archeological explorers."
Taking another sip from the pint, "My mother was Bellis the Burglar one of the founding members of Sable Company." Lifting the pint he finishes the last drop. "Her grandfather was actually a 'Kings Thief' he preferred the term burglar, but the king insisted, and you know how kings are, they get to call people whatever they want." Looking at the bottom of the pint, he continued. "Even had a great uncle on her mother's side that was Burglar for a bunch of dwarves, they were going after a dragon's treasure or some such."
Setting the empty pint mug back on the table he eases forwards, taking his pipe out of his pocket. "As for questionable activity, one must be careful. For instance, my last job of that sort." He taps the bowl of the pipe and starts to fill it from his pouch of Tobbac. " I was hired by a merchant's wife. Her husband was away, and she had entertained a young man for amorous purposes. The cheeky fellow stole some of her jewelry." He shrugs as he pulls out his tinderbox to light his pipe. "The jewelry was some that her husband had purchased for her, and she knew he would notice it missing. So, she hired me to reacquire the jewelry." As he lights the pipe, he continued, "I was going to charge her a pittance, but the fellow had other trophies with her jewelry." He shrugged, as he put his tinderbox away, "As we all know there is nothing wrong with taking ill-gotten gains from a thief. So, I kept the other 'trophies' to remind him not to take advantage."
He takes a long draws off of the pipe as he relaxes back into the chair. "I don't mind that kind of work, but I'd preferer something more long term. Finding my own group like my mother did. We Burglars work better when we have someone watching our backs."
As the others get acquainted, Terion sat down after shaking Boram's hand - "Why introduce yourself as 'the burglar' though?" - he asked matter of fact, while looking around for someone to bring him a beer - "Why not just Boram?" - he added.
"Oh... M'sorry, Terion.", giving a nod to their other friend, and an apologetic nod to Kardin with an expression that attempted to convey as much, holding the simply bound book to their chest.
"Nice to see you Jairdan!" - Terion smiled.
Realizing that the term 'Burglar' may have negative connotation, here in the south, he takes another puff on his pipe as he explains. "I've come to Hommlet to ask Rufus and Burne if they might know a group of adventurers who might need a 'Burglar' if not maybe to work for them. They knew my mother. I could ask if you need a good 'fixer' who can disable traps, pick locks, get in small places, help watch your back." He shrugs. "But Burglar just rolls off the tongue so much easier."
Kardin, taking a sip from his mug, put it down and helpfully added in "Think of it is a translation issue." He said, dryly. "He's not a criminal. It's his profession. Just like a mason, a smith, or a mercenary." He wanted to get out in front of the issue, knowing that his cousin would be carefully watched due to his race alone. Throwing in a term like 'burglar' would get eyes glued on him even more firmly.
"I guess that's fair enough" - Terion nods at Boram and Kardin - "I would suggest 'mercenary' as master Shieldshatter says - might be safer around these parts" - he added, still looking for someone to bring him a drink - "So you know Rufus and Burne then? They are famous around these parts"
Herala has to lean in, as once her glasses where gone it became very clear she couldn't see. She removed her hood being with friends, but a bright purple scarf kept back her mass of red curly hair, though all but Boram would know the scarf did more than keep her hair back, it hide the obvious trance of her ancestry.
She just looked like a more human half elf with her pointed ears, but she had to lean very close to focus on Boram he could see that red also colored her eyes as she says, "An adventure party? Now that sound fun! I have read of them in letters both Terion and Jairdan have sent me, and the temple had some as I studied, but after being called I haven't had much time to read them anymore. Now it's mainly just my holy book and other text. Speaking of, have you ever retrieved holy text? I hear some are hard to reach. I promise to have them sent back, I just really want to see them."
For all her talk, and her friends clearly more worldwise ways, Herala was every bit a small town girl, even if she had spent years in a city learning about holy magics. She clearly had never spoke to someone like Boram before, as she glossed right over him being a burglar once he said adventure.
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A rotund man with a bald pate comes over. A huge smile crosses his face as he speaks." Welcome, Welcome..." he pauses and gives a good look at the group and his eyes widen and jaw nearly drops.
" Is that Herala! Come back I see. For the wedding? A right affair it is. The City has gone all out it has. Though I bet you say the flowers and ribbons. A beauty she is truly a beauty." He says as he comes in for a hug.
He pulls away and see the rest of the locals. He tells a couple jokes and then asks. " So what would you like. For those who can read we have a menu on the chalk board.For those who cant ye can ask. Also have a few rooms should ye need them." he says politely his fat meaty hands. Touching eachother in the feont.
Herala hugs the portly man, but without her glasses is unable to clearly see who it is. But the feeling of welcome was a strange one to her, as she did remember some people whispering about her. Or was all that just teenage angst she never really settled? " It is a welcome surprise.. to be welcomed. Who all is in this wedding? I truly came to see old friends! And my first Temple."
Having her glasses back on her face, and she does not have to lean at anyone to speak, she finally looks at the menu to order. She does chew on her bottom lip some before venturing to ask, not seeing it on the menu, "Sir, I hate to be a bother, but the temple had this.. dark juice made from beans. It helped you stay awake when reading.. umm late into the night. Not that I read into the night or anything, I just heard you could." She was still the bookworm as always, something that anyone who remembered her might know. She could be bribed with tomes of knowledge quicker than a burglar to a locked grandmothers door
Jairdan tentatively slid the book they were carrying over to Herala, offering a slight smile to the curious glance they were anticipating from her. They remembered the shared interest they had in books and the stories they told to the reader with this recent copy just completed last week. The simple but sturdy binding had little ornamentation, but that was pretty common for books that had been copied over. Often, it was the notations along the spine of the book that indicated its category and contents in the master index back at the church. The inside page indicates that it was the accounts of Lyrissa Emberhealer, compiled from scattered mentions and event accounts.
Nodding sagely at Terion's recommendation, he lips the words 'Boram the Mercenary' it didn't have the same ring to it. Then he realized that folks would expect him to be able to fight. He subconsciously rested his hand on the frog of his rapier. He liked the blade, but no one would pretend he'd rush into battle with it. Realizing the human had asked about Rufus and Burne, he looks up, "My mother and godfather knew them, years ago."
As Herala spoke he turned towards her, noting the red in her eyes. He'd assumes she was a half-elf, now seeing her eyes, he wondered if she had a little Drow in her blood. Smiling slightly as she said 'adventuring sounded fun' it would be fortuitous to have someone who could see in the dark with them. He nods and takes a puff from his pipe, "I believe with the right group of folks it could be." Remembering what happened to Sable company he adds, "of course we would need to be careful not to get in over our heads."
Turning as the rotund inn keeper approached and instantly hugged the half elf girl, Boram sat back in his chair. He looked over towards Kardin glad that dwarves weren't huggers. Even if they were it wouldn't be as bad as hugging tall folk. As short as halflings were, trying to hug tall folk seemed wrong; either they picked you up and swung you around or your face was planted in their unmentionables.
Once the innkeeper released Herala and addressed them, Boram waited till Herala ordered her coffee, then pointed up at the menu, "I'll try some of the stew." Lifting up the empty stein "And more of the ale."
He watched as the other half elf slid the book over to Herala, they both looked very scholarly, while the human looked more like a soldier. Herala had mentioned about coming to see the temple and she spoke about reading holy texts, maybe she was some sort of priest. As the innkeeper moved away from the table he inquired, "Enough about me, what do you all do?"
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" Is that like a tea. The wife has teas, few request it? Would that suffice. If so its about 3 copper bits."Simon Gandigoot says to the Tiefling a sheer confused look on his face about roasted been juice for a drink.
" Stew will be 2 silver shillings, you get bread and some cheese with it as well. Ale will be 1 silver Shilling. Though the local beer is just an Electrum more" He says delighted someone is fetting food.
" As for the wedding. Well its Burne the Transmuter to Lady Amethyra Goldleaf, one of them half elves she is. From the Elves of Valeria to the east. Tall, slender lady with alabaster skin, deep amethyst eyes and hair the color of the sun its self! By the Goddess! She is a looker" He stops and then stammers.
"Apologies Sister, but tis true. Came in on a caravan she came. Wearing pecular robes of red,brown,turquoise and sky blue. On her head was a crown of gold woven with gems of the same colors arranged in a four pointed star!" He says with a wide smile. It was a grand tale, but was it not just some tall tales or truth.
" She be a caster too. A powerful one. Working wonderful illusions, well thats what Brune called them. They where entertaining they was. Any way should be a great wedding. Everyone will be there. Im even closinf the Inn tomorrow to attend." the kindly Innkeeper says as some of the other patrons, clearly out of towners and new arrivals among the regular thrall could be seen.
" Stew will be 2 silver shillings, you get bread and some cheese with it as well. Ale will be 1 silver Shilling. Though the local beer is just an Electrum more" He says delighted someone is fetting food.
"Magic words Ostler!" - Terion smiled again, this time at the innkeeper - "Stew and beer for me"
He watched as the other half elf slid the book over to Herala, they both looked very scholarly, while the human looked more like a soldier. Herala had mentioned about coming to see the temple and she spoke about reading holy texts, maybe she was some sort of priest. As the innkeeper moved away from the table he inquired, "Enough about me, what do you all do?"
"A bit of everything really" - Terion shrugged at Boram - "Family is from Hommlet, so I try to keep myself busy and make myself useful around here" - he explained - "I help Mom and Pop with business, and anyone else who asks really - once gave a hand here at the inn with some folks who were getting rowdy, also helped the guard once or twice, and around the Temple often"
Herala squeals at the book that Jairdan hands her, clearly excited to receive the book from them. Whatever questions directed at her took a bit of a second place as she looks into the book, clearly flipping respectfully through the text, along with pulling out a tome that she carried on her, the front cover matching the symbol around her next. She immediately goes to accepting whatever Simon brings her " Yeah uhmhmh tea yeah that's good." She clearly missed the comment to the beauty of the bride, her mind already elsewhere as she studies the book.
A few moments later, clearly caught up in the book, she scans it for interesting bits that jump out at first to her, even point out to Jairdan " Look see here! She did fight a demon! I was not wrong! I mean it was a minor demon, but still! I knew it!" She takes a second to realize she was talking to a group of people who would probably not understand why she was excited about someone fighting a demon, and she blushes a deep scarlet red to her ear tips, which highlight what may be the only cosmopolitan thing about her, different hoops and studs in her ears.
" Sorry about that. Ever since I was given ability to call on the Goddess powers, I have been investigating different battles and evil forces that have challenged her and her followers. You asked about what I do? I... I guess I study the history of the church and how to best help people. I can do some minor healing, but surely the local priest or priestess does a much better job. Speaking of," She turns and looks at Jairdan with a very serious manner, thinking of how to phrase her question before asking, " Is it still Sister Helida who runs the church? She will kill me if she sees all these piercing's in my ears. Is she still going on about how the youth of today will bring about the fall of everything? I remember the time she chased us from the top of the bell tower, though you both managed to get away, I still remember that beating." Boram may notice that the others speak of a family, but Herala does not, nor does she ask after parents she may have.
Raising an eyebrow, Boram was more surprised that the Innkeeper would close his business for the wedding than he was that Brune would marry a beautiful Illusionist. From what he remembered Brune had always had good taste. Mildly surprised their host apologized to Herala about describing another beautiful half elf, it did confirm that she was a 'sister' and hopefully some sort of spellcaster herself. Taking out one of his ten gold coins he set it on the table to show that he could afford to eat, but he was planning on sleeping in the 'dwarf tent city' instead of paying 'Inn' prices.
As their host went on about his business and the conversation opened up a bit, Boram listened as Terion spoke. A local, jack of all trades apparently, but he also worked as a guard. Smiling to himself, Boram nods, Guards were good, especially if you were concentrating on a trap and didn't want surprised from behind. Lifting his refilled pint, to Terion. "It sounds like you keep yourself busy."
Sipping the ale and setting it back on the table, he Looks up as Herala squeals something about someone fighting a demon. Chuckling as she blushes a deep red. He nods as she apologizes, he gestures towards the book, asking "Who is it you read about?" Thinking 'ability to call on the goddess power' he'd been right, she could work divine magic. He listened carefully, nodding when she described being able to heal.
Noting when she asked the quite bookish one about the 'Sister.' Who apparently felt comfortable enough with beating Herala as a child. Pausing, he thought about the time's he'd gotten in trouble. Oh, the folks would be happy to tell Harsk about his shenanigans, but none of them dare put their hand to him. Were humans so different that they just beat others children. It then dawned on him that Herala hadn't mentioned family at all, maybe the sister was the closest thing Herala had to a parent, Boram knew many religious organizations raised orphans he wondered if this was her case.
Not wanting to bring up a difficult situation this early in their burgeoning friendship he turned to the one named Jairdan, hoping Herala's story would inspire them to share more.
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"No she left with the Canoness. Not sure where. So Terjon and Calmer are all that is left of divinely gifted with a few lay clergy who help out." Simon says as he then asks.
" I heard something about adventurer work Master Halfling? If so several posts have been posted on the board outside the Elders house. Strange bit that, usually it was just simple things like finding lost sheep or offers of slaying a rat or mayhap a wandering goblin or two. The risks have gotten worse. Got some legitimate claims with more then a few silver bits. Actual gold rewards! That Rufus Fellow has some posts up thier. As well as still the usually minir things." Simon says as a young laduly comes ocer with the asked for food and drink.
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Noticing the shift in Boram's attention, Jairdan glanced up and seemed to be surprised that they were the focus, blinking wide, light brown eyes once before checking on everyone else at the table and realizing what was being implied. "Um, we just grew up there and I scribe books for th'church..." At some point their eyes had found a spot on the table and they had shrunk somewhat trying to blend in, glancing up to see if Boram was still paying attention. Finding that he was, they looked momentarily panicked as they searched for something to say, straightening a bit. "...I do that a lot..." A smile was tried and fell off as they seemed more uncertain than anything. One hand brushed a slightly pointed ear in the same spot as the ink stain and another nervous glance away and back, and gave the ghost of a shrug, their slight frame trying to find a point of something to reply.
Turning to Boram, he said "Might be worth checking the Board." Somewhat thoughtfully, he added "Used to check it regularly, but there wasn't even anything there worth the time. But if gold is involved? That's rare. Can't remember the last time it was the case. There might be something that earns more than masonry, this time. I'd trust your judgement on this."
Hearing the Sister left seems to give Herala a strange look, almost some sadness but also a bit of relief? She brushes a hand back and touches her right ear and the hoops running up and down it, and seems to take comfort she does not have to remove them, and upon the tea arriving she thanks the girl and takes a sip. After a moment she answers the question of who she studies, " Well, any one really in the Church. Knowing their histories and various other task help me feel more connected, and may give me information for an issue. Jairdan helps me with my research, and they are probably one of the best sources I have for my work, such that it is. In fact, Jairdan may be why I enjoy books so much. They have worked with books for... however many years Jairdan can read, if not since they were born. Didn't they teach you to read Ter? They have always been better with books than me."
The conversation turned more towards work, and the idea of checking an adventuring board seemed like the adventuring thing to do. She would tuck the book away in her things, her vest seeming to hold a few hidden pockets, and says to those gathered " I would enjoy checking it out, and even if we do nothing but kill a few goblins, that would be a tale to tell. Not everyone has, and that would make this an interesting trip to take back. Though with no one of any real power here... I may stay a bit, in case the townspeople need guidance. I could at least do that." She seemed less sure on the last part, and everyone gathered would guess its due to the reception some may have for Herala personally. She seemed more worried on that then whatever the message board had for them to do.
" Let us go check, I think it will be fun." And if no one objects, she would go check out the board. She would argue about getting rid of a few goblins, then doing whatever the big task was. Goblins were a menace all people could enjoy being gone.
Kardin sat alone at a large table at the Welcome Wench. He was currently seeking the bottom of his second mug of ale. The dwarf had spent a long day at the masonry camp, working on repairing sub-par work...
Hearing the Innkeeper speak about the 'posting board outside the Elders house' Boram's ears perked up. He nodded when Kardin commented about 'checking the board' but he kept his eyes on Jairdan. The half-elf intrigued him, Harsk had always said 'Silent waters ran deep' hoping Boram would chatter just a little less, but this jairdan 'scribe' seemed truly shy. Knowing that a lot of folks who could read and right well enough, could also copy magical scrolls, Boram wondered if the half-elf knew magic, or could easily learn magic.
Turning he noticed the strange look Herala was giving the Innkeeper, he'd said something about one of the nun's leaving but Boram hadn't caught which one, he surmised probably the one with the switch. As the drinks and bowls of stew were served, he listened and ate as she talked about who she'd read. He looks towards Jairdan as Kerala spoke of what a wonderful help they'd been. The other half elf must know how to use some magic.
Continuing eating his stew as she spoke, he raised an eyebrow when she spoke about 'killing a few goblins would be a tale to tell. As he scrapped the last of the stew out of the bowl, he reminded himself most religious types find 'killing a few goblins' beneath them and if a group can find priest that would go with them, they should hang on to that priest.
Using the last of his bread he wipes the little bit of broth out of the bowl, then stands to his feet on the chair when Herala finishes with 'It will be fun'. Nodding and smile, he looks towards Kardin, gesturing towards the door, "Yes let's go look at the board, it will be fun." collecting the change from his coin, he jumps off the chair and begins maneuvering through the crowd. Calling back over his shoulder, "Once we see what the job is, we'll decide if we should start this evening, or tomorrow." remembering there was large wedding planned, he added, "Or maybe the day after, I'm sure if it's a 'few goblins' they won't be going anywhere."
Terion seems too busy to speak as he gobbles down the food and beer, simply nodding a "Huh, huh", in confirmation that he has indeed learned to read.
"I pass that board everyday, but can't remember the last time I checked it" - he grunted when he was finished, cleaning his mouth with the back of the sleeve - "I'm ready when you are"
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The Innkeeper nods " I have more people to see Please enjoy" He says as he moves off to another table.
It isnt too busy, but thier is a pair of toughs near the bar. One a short man with a woven straw hat, a long ponytail and monks robes. Next to him is a tall fur clad Half Orc with a huge sword. They drink and eat but keep an eye on everything.
Another man near the door wears what where finely woven wizard robes od blue, they are travel worn, but he pours over books and old maps. He took looks up now and again but quickly goes back to the papers before him
A merchant grouo, ecodent by the fact some of you came in with them are enjoying the opportunity to drink. A familiar guard you think his name was Zert had said he was coming to hommlet and would move on the old road while the Merchants would take the well used
Lastly for those who have stayed in town know the new Carpenter a Dragonborn of silverly blue color sits with his Brother a Dragonborn with more silver and less blue.
Several of the Farm hands are here even Greevws who works for Old Man Crumb, his affectionate nickname for the widower. Not far is the most recognizable cillager. Elmo.
Elmo is a huge lad of 6 foot with broad shoulder. Black hair and a doopey smile as he drinks another cup. He is the toen deunk, but also said to be a deadly swordsman. A man in a brimmed cavaliers hat and in leathers is talking to him. He is offering games of chance to him.
When he doesnt bote the mustachioed rogue heads towards you a slight smile. In fact he seems to have only a main gauche on his left hip and a couple emergency daggers. Though he seems ro has left his raiper elsewhere.
" Evening friends care for a game od chance?"
Acknowledging the Innkeeper, Boram hears the fellow in the brimmed hat ask about a friendly game of chance. Turning he stops, reminding himself he only gambles with his life, not his money. Not interested himself, he would watch any of his fellow dinner guests play.
When he doesnt bote the mustachioed rogue heads towards you a slight smile. In fact he seems to have only a main gauche on his left hip and a couple emergency daggers. Though he seems ro has left his raiper elsewhere.
" Evening friends care for a game od chance?"
"Sure! What do you suggest?" - Terion asked.
Kardin frowned. Silver was hard enough to come by in a place like this, and he needed gold to make his dreams come true. The idea of letting what little he had slip away due to greed and a con was like poison. He kept his counsel to himself though, as he watched to see what would come of the game of chance.
Herala frowns for a moment, clearly torn between helping the man, and wasting money. But a small chance to win was fun, and even if she lost she would not be out that much money she felt. She offers forward " I have a few silvers, what would you suggest there for chance? And how do we know you are not a demon? Jairdan, didn't you send me that book recently on how demons make deals on games of chance?"
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Climbing back up onto his chair beside Kardin, Boram isn't surprised that the dwarf is also watching but not offering to play. As Herala begins to reach for her money and asks about the game, He's surprised se actually asked the man if he was a demon, his curiosity getting the better of him, he turns to, first to Herala and then Jairdan asking, "wouldn't there be a magical way one of you can tell?"
As the two consider the question, Boran turns to watch the 'cavalier' to see what kind of 'game of chance' the fellow wants to play and if his methods look like he may cheat. Speaking to the 'cavalier' in 'thieves cant' "J'espère que vous n'avez pas l'intention de tromper mes amis."
I hope you are not planning on cheating my friends.
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" Just a silver. Nothing higher. I do not want you to take all my money" he says with a dashing smile as he holds up dice and cards.
** spoiler omitted **
" Dice or cards. That easy. As for the accusations of a demon I assure you lovely lady that I may be many things but a semon aint one. Even though many a lady has cursed me or praised me. Take that as you will" he says with a wink to Herala. He seems unpgased at your looks.
" Names Furnock by the way. Games are My game!" he smiles again striking a very dashing figure
Not sure if the man is talking to him or Herala, Terion shrugs and nods - "Explain the rules then"
Jairdan gave a measuring look to Furnock, nodding in agreement to the question that Herala asked, though the half-shrug and hand waver implied there was more to that than it being so straightforward. Still a bit out of their element, Jairdan was following the cues of the others, and they did have some silver, so maybe they were playing a game in the inn like adventurers and brigands and others of dubious character like Furnock? The thought was strangely exciting, even if the uncertainty was uncomfortable.
The slight upturn to their lips was a smaller version of the expression Herala had, taking the equivalent of a silver out and onto the table. There was a lot that had been written about the games, and finding out which rules would be fun.
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"Dice it will be" - the man smiled.
Taking her time, but watching as Terion went dice and Jairdan seemed to join in as well, she also ventures forth "Dice as well. Though if you are a demon it is a shame. I would have to banish you from this place, and that seems quite a hassle right now. Maybe afterwards. Though I do suppose there is a magical way of doing it, I have yet to learn it."
Part of her words answered Boram, as she didn't know the proper spells to detect a demon, at least not currently. But that did not mean she would not be able to learn. She just currently didn't, and was a bit caught up in the excitement. For all evidence, even as she came from a larger town, she clearly spent most her time actually being a priestess over going out, even if she hadn't been restricted on it.
Nodding an acknowledgement to the cavalier, Boram watches as the others take out their coins. Once they decide they are going to play a game of dice he begins to look around the room. He was pleased that Kardin was willing to join, he knew the dwarf could handle axe and shield. It seemed clear in his mind that both Jairdan and Herala were some kind of wand waivers and Terion as a member of the guard could use the sword on his hip and probably a myriad of other weapons.
Five was a good round number, he wonders to himself if the group needed any more members, or possibly might need the occasional 'specialist' to hire. Deciding hiring folks would be the best route, He would bring up the idea to the others once the game of dice was over. Maybe they would know someone local that could help out, but in the meantime, he looked around the room.
as he looked around the tavern the Pair of toughs near the bar caught his attention first. The one was dressed in monk robes and the burly Half Orc in fur. They seemed to be exactly what they appeared. He pauses a moment and looks at the 'Cavalier' rolling the dice. Maybe he shouldn't jump to conclusions. The bookworm near the door in the wizards robes also appeared to have a certain set of skills. The two Dragon born intrigued him, he didn't know much about the breed. Lastly the huge lad the 'cavalier' had first spoken with, Boram couldn't tell if the dopey smile was due to the alcohol, or a dim wit or a combination of both.
Bringing his attention back to the game, he'd watch for a bit to make sure the 'cavalier' wasn't cheating, and then they would go the 'board' and see what the job was and how much it paid; then decide if the needed some 'hired help.'
"My turn"
"Not too bad" - the man smiles.