| 2 people marked this as a favorite. |
It was a nice, warm afternoon as the town of Sandpoint gathered for the beginning of the much anticipated Swallowtail Festival. The chatter settles down as a woman walks up to the stage-the woman being the town's very mayor, Kendra Deverin.
"People of Sandpoint!" she yells out with an enthusiastic voice, "We could not have asked for a more beautiful Autumnal Equinox to celebrate the opening of the newly rebuilt cathedral! I see many familiar faces-yes, even you Larz Rovanky," This caused a good deal of laughter and clapping from everyone, except for the grumpy tanner, "You know we like you, Larz. And yet I also see some unfamiliar faces-faces of relatives of the locals, or perhaps travelers who were lucky to pass by this town on this wonderful day. I would like to say to all, that lunch is provided for free by both of our wonderful taverns-the Rusty Dragon, ran by Ameiko Kaijitsu; the Hagfish, ran by Jargie Quinn; and the White Deer, ran by Garridan Viskalai and his wonderful family. We also have a number of games for all ages to enjoy! May this day be a blessed one indeed, and have a wonderful day!"
The crowd erupts into an applause, which simmers as a gruff man steps up onto the stage-Belor Hemlock, the sheriff.
"Thank you, Mayor Deverin, and good afternoon to you all," he begins, "Yes, this is a day for celebration, but let it also be a day of remembrance. All of us locals are all too familiar with the lives we have lost five years ago during the Late Unpleasantness, including Father Tobyn and his daughter Nualia. While I do not wish to damper any spirits, I inquire everyone to be safe, have each other's back, and if you see any lawbreaking or suspicious activity, to report to one of the guards or myself. Have a great day everyone."
The crowd applaudes again, though less so, as another man steps up. There's a collective murmer of surprise, as if this man wasn't supposed to come up yet.
"Good afternoon, children of Sandpoint," the man-Father Zantus, the new priest of the town-said softly, "Yes, our next speaker was supposed to be one of the local noblemen, Lonjiku Kaijitsu, but unfortunately we have been informed that he is not feeling well today."
"So, I would like to say on his behalf, and on the behalf of every noble family in the city, on how proud I am of this town. Yes, the Late Unpleasantness was a horrible moment for us all-each local here lost a tutor, a friend, a lover, a parent, or even a child. And yet, in spite of such horribleness, we banded together and not only rebuilt this town, but rebuilt our community-I have never seen this little town become even closer in union than I have in the last five years. And with that, may we honor all we have loss and ask Desna for aid to a pleasant afterlife." As he says so, a thousand swallowtail butterflies are released, rising into a cloud of dazzling golds and blacks before dispersing across the town.
"Let the Swallowtail Festival begin!"
| 1 person marked this as a favorite. |
On the side of the stage, Darius Deverin, the nephew of Sandpoint's Mayor, looked up with pride as his Aunt Kendra addressed the gathered populace. The whole Deverin family came down to support Sandpoint and the opening of the long-awaited cathedral's opening. The youngest brother, Codrin, audibly gasped as the swallowtails were released.
As the applause died down and the townsfolk turned to join the festival, the Deverin Boys turned to their father.
"Alright, everyone have fun, but be careful", Aiver Deverin, the boy's father and brother to Kendra, smiled to his sons.
"Father, can't I go on my own?" Codrin complained.
"No, you're too young. But we plan on making a day of it, so there's a good chance we'll see all we can", Aiver smiled.
"Boys, I want everyone home by sundown", Vana, Darius's mother stated to her sons. "Everyone."
The older sons rumbled compliance.
"Have fun. Keep an eye on coin purse", Aiver reminded his sons.
☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
Despite being dressed in his best suit, Darius was quiet tired; having spent the better part of the week helping to get the cathedral get ready for it's opening. The aasimar sat on the edge of the stage, and took out his lute from it's carrying bag, and began to play for anyone passing by.
Let the festival come to me, Darius thought. I might get something to eat later, but for now, I work on those few new tunes I learned.
"You know, I almost forgot what it was like. To go to this festival with the intent to actually just have fun, rather than steal as much as possible from people who had their guard down," Mia said to her partner, an actual member of the town watch. Donning a leather armor on top of her normal clothes, the slender half-elf still felt very much out of place.
"Well, sadly, we're not here to have fun. Or even to roll pockets. Though it's good to know I have an expert with me to spot all prospecting thieves caught somewhere in the middle of this mess," He replied, grinning wryly.
"Yeah, yeah. I know, I know. But can't we partake in the celebrations just a tiny little bit?" The Shelynite priestess pressed, using her most hopeful smile.
Clive held the stare a good two seconds before he caved. It was longer than he usually lasted. "So long as it doesn't hinder us in our job, that's probably fine."
"Sweet! And here I was, worried *I* was the responsible one."
"You - what - That doesn't make *any* sense!"
"Are *you* talking to *me* about good sense, Mister 'I drink alcohol on patrol under the guise of inspection duty'?"
He laughed. "Touche. Though *someone* has to make sure the bevarages aren't poisoned! It's part of the whole 'protecting the people' thing."
"Hm. And let me guess - the same is true for testing the free lunch at the Rusty Dragon."
"Of course!"
"Then I suggest we also check all the stalls and partake in all the games. Just to make sure they're fair. Who knows what nefarious schemes are being concocted by the festival stall owners?"
Clive grinned. "Okay, now we're getting in the realm of the truly rediculous - but fear not, my lady. We can always write it off as publicly profiling the Guard among the populace."
"Clever! They'd feel more safe and secure that way." Mia agreed. "I knew there was a reason I tolerated you..."
About to take leave of the square, her ears perk up at the sound of sudden and quite enchanting music played from nearby. She hesitated when she saw who was the source of it, but eye contact was already made.
"Oh. Um. Brother Deverin. How fare you today?" She asked the Aasimar, inwardly cringing at how the formal language went with her as natually as water burned. But she couldn't help it - with his celestial heritage, martial bearing and skill with the lute and words, the paladin was everything she wasn't - or was, but better. Being around him always made her feel like she fell short in some way, and knowing he knew she'd been a thief until recently didn't lighten that sentiment. Still, she tried her best to a senior devotee of Shelyn, and just walking by would have been awkward...
"Oh. Um. Brother Deverin. How fare you today?"
The paladin stopped his instrumentation out of deference. Darius chuckled at the wording of the greeting. "I am as fare as the fair around us, Rosemaiden Mia. Just trying to help send some beauty into the Festival. That, and I'm still recovering from an exhaustive week. But, look around: I think it was worth it."
"So, Belor's having you patrol the festival?" Darius asked, as he noticed the official own guard uniform. "That doesn't sound like fun at all."
"Rosemaiden? Me? That feels so 'off'. Maidens are much fairer, prim - primmer? and proper. He's just being his overly charming self. Probably uses similar words on the girls he supposedly takes him from the tavern every week."
"Yes. The two of us and many others. I cannot lie and pretend I do not envy you, but you are probably taking a well-deserved break." She says, not commenting on the title. She ventures a hesitant smile. "But what about you, Brother? Do you have any particular plans for this celebration? Clive and I were planning on visiting some of the stalls to see if- um... to see if things are going well. And then have lunch later at the Rusty Dragon."
She wasn't entirely sure why she added the last part. Maybe it was just a sense of having to be truthful, to not hold something back from a paladin. Yet perhaps there was some desire to know the other Shelynite slightly better. He was far more experienced in their faith and should have good advice on how to behave like a proper priestess. To say nothing about how it'd be advisable to have a good number of strong and influential friends, especially in her position.
"Yes. The two of us and many others. I cannot lie and pretend I do not envy you, but you are probably taking a well-deserved break." She says, not commenting on the title. She ventures a hesitant smile. "But what about you, Brother? Do you have any particular plans for this celebration? Clive and I were planning on visiting some of the stalls to see if- um... to see if things are going well. And then have lunch later at the Rusty Dragon."
Darius lets out a small yawn. "Beg pardon. But, no. No real plans. Just strumming, really."
The paladin noticed the twinge of loneliness in Mia's voice. Honestly, with so few other shelynites in the area, compared to caydenites, desnans, and the saerenites; this might be the right time to build a connection.
"But. Perhaps the Eternal Rose has set this time together to finally get to know each other." The aasimar begins to put his lute back in it's bag.
"Could I ask for an 'official town guard escort' around the Swallowtail Festival?"
"Could I ask for an 'official town guard escort' around the Swallowtail Festival?"
"And we would be protecting you from... what - the girls?" Mia asked, amused. Her partner snorted, trying to keep his face straight. The moment fades soon, however, and she worries whether that was crossing some sort of line. "Ah, sorry. It's just... well, there are rumors - lots of rumors but I shouldn't make assumptions or joke about them," The younger Shelynite blushes, takes a deep breath and tries to start over. "What I mean to say is that we'll be glad to accept, right Clive?"
"If it makes you happy." The soldier managed, clearly a bit less enthoused by the idea. But they were already moving as was often the case with his part Elven companion.
"So... brother Darius? I was wondering... as you know, this priesthood was more or less thrust upon me." Mia ventures as they start going past the many stalls. "But you probably could have chosen to serve anyone. Why did you pick Shelyn as a Diety?" She wonders, looking at the paladin curiously.
| 1 person marked this as a favorite. |
The Deverin son puts his lute bag on his back and walks with the two town guards. Darius diplomatically didn't hear the 'assumptions' part of the conversation.
"I suppose I felt Shelyn's influence in my life when I first began to learn the lute", the paladin explains. "There was an innate calmness when I began to play. The more I learned about The Eternal Rose, the more her teaching made sense. Being able to see The Beauty in others, and The World; and finding a way to bring more Beauty into The World seem like worthwhile goals to me."
"Do you honestly feel pressured into Shelyn's service, Mia?"
The half-elf slows her pace. "Perhaps 'pressured' is a strong word," She says. "But... if I wanted to stay in Sandpoint, there weren't that many options either. Who would hire a thief? Who would do business with a thief? No one would or should trust me."
She stared ahead, overlooking the festival. "But if a goddess trusted me still, who would or should question her judgment?"
Whether or not she herself did remained unanswered. "Of course, this is all my own fault. And maybe I am too pessimistic about my options. Or too stubborn, perhaps. But I know I'm not strong or skilled in fights like the two of you. And there are just... some things I could never put myself to do, no matter how nice Miss Tesarani is."
Kaye Tesarani is the owner of the local Brothel, the Pixie's Kitten. She is also married to Sheriff Hemlock.
"Or I could follow Father's example and look for local relics to sell, perhaps. Until one day I don't come back either. Maybe that would be best for everyone."
She shakes her head. "Ah... sorry, I don't want to go all somber during a celebration like this. And I'm going off track, too. Do I feel pressured? Is taking your only real out being pressured? I don't know. I'm both intrigued and confused that I'm able to channel the Lady's gift when there are probably countless worthier others who can't. And maybe a little scared, too. I'm... still figuring out what that means - and what demands are made of me in return, explicitely or implicitely. Does that make sense? "
| 1 person marked this as a favorite. |
"Does that make sense? "
Darius considered his words carefully as he walked with the town guards. "Zounds, Mia. 'Still Waters Run Deep'.
But you are a cleric so that surely comes with the vocation.""Rosemaiden, we mortals are not perfect. Everyone has flaws. Untidy things in the center of our beings we wish to change.
'It is The Exalted That Have The Farthest to Fall'. Do you know what every antipaladin, Dread Vanguard to Tyrant has said?"
"Me? No! I will never fall." I am keenly aware that if I lost my convictions, I too, would fall."
"I think every person of faith struggles with 'feeling worthy'. And the ones who don't often have inflated perceptions of themselves, and are delusional."
"But you, Rosemaiden Mia. You are keenly aware of your faults. But you have a great need to prove yourself. To yourself. And The Eternal Maiden."
Darius stops walking to emphasis his point. "Mia. I can't wait to see the heights of which you will soar. I hope one day to join you. Just have faith."
The aasimar, ever the showman, activated his angelic gift, as a bright halo radiated from his head; catching the eyes of the people walking near him.
Turning to Clive, Darius adds, "Bet your weren't expecting a theological discussion today, were you? Eh, Mr. Clive?"
| 1 person marked this as a favorite. |
Larry watched and listened with a huge grin. He had thought that he'd be working, supplemental security.... But today he was off. He had taken two days to clean and polish his armor and weapons. Both of the chakrams gleamed bright and his sword was almost sharp enough to shave with. Well, that last was a slight exaggeration. Nobody sharpened a sword quite that sharp....
He considered waving to Darius but didn't want to interrupt his music. Likewise he only listened. He may enjoy singing but knew he wasn't really any good.... After listening for several minutes he strolls over to get a mug of ale. He raises it in Cayden's honor and takes a long draw from it before walking around again. When the butterflies are released he wondered whether someone actually caught them, or if magic was involved. The first seemed silly, the the second? Well, he didn't understand magic anyway.
When he spots Mia he notices her partner, and her armor. She must be working.... He notices her chatting with Darius, and then the Bravo packing up his instrument. Larry quickly changes direction to join the trio.
As he closes and hears the end of the conversation he wonders whether he might need a drink, another one? or three. But, the day is still young! "Hey Little Sister! Are you teaching the good brother new secrets about Shelyn? He does well pounding the word into my thick skull, but I swear my nightly worship of Cayden at the Rusty Dragon seems to wipe all of my new memories!" The smile on his face shows his complete lack of any seriousness to his words. Obviously he isn't working today!
Darius's halo disappears as he turns to greet a familair voice. "Ah. Greeting Lawerence. How fare you today?" The aasimar grins to himself. "Looks to be a great day to be a caydenite? Three local pubs offering free food and drink! A great time to be had!"
"Please allow me to introduce Rosemaiden Mia Vespertine and Town Guardian Clive." Darius gestures to the fighter with the well-worn armor. "And this is Lawrence Hastings. Caydenite and local adventurer."
Larry raises his mug and takes a large sip.... and grins. "Indeed, Cayden be praised the ale is cold! But Darius, I prefer Larry. My mother named me Lawrence. I was fine with that before I grew up. Stop being so formal and angelic. This is a holiday!"
He bows and continues, "And good day Sweet Rosemaiden Mia Vespertine and Good Town Guardian Clive. You are allowed to join the festivities while guarding them, right?" He gives a quick wink to Mia as he repeats the title given by Darius.
Larry raises his mug and takes a large sip.... and grins. "Indeed, Cayden be praised the ale is cold! But Darius, I prefer Larry. My mother named me Lawrence. I was fine with that before I grew up. Stop being so formal and angelic. This is a holiday!"
"Introductions demand formality", the paladin tutted.
"Mia. I can't wait to see the heights of which you will soar. I hope one day to join you. Just have faith."
Turning to Clive, Darius adds, "Bet your weren't expecting a theological discussion today, were you? Eh, Mr. Clive?"
The male town guard interrupts his concerned frown towards Mia when adressed. "Afraid you'd lose your coin on that, Sir Knight. I fear it comes with the territory," He says, briefly returning the Aasimar's grin. "But, from the heart, your words are inspiring, they are." He adds earnestly. "Were you preaching, I'd have half a mind to attend. If we weren't so damn- er, blood-, I mean... how to put this to a holy man ... pressingly busy all the time, that is."
"Besides he's got a point, Freckles," He moves as if to put a hand on her shoulder, but hesitates and slowly pulls it away. "Don't you think you're a bit hard on yourself? The Sheriff was praising your spearwork the other day, for one."
"He gave me *one* compliment after two months of training," Mia replies, pulling herself to the here and now.
"See? He clearly has a soft spot for you."
"...Right before he knocked me out in a single hit."
"...Accidents happen?"
Something tells Darius this back and forth might have continued for a while if not for the appearance of Lawrence.
"Hey Little Sister! Are you teaching the good brother new secrets about Shelyn? He does well pounding the word into my thick skull, but I swear my nightly worship of Cayden at the Rusty Dragon seems to wipe all of my new memories!"
The head-haired cleric blinks at the sudden greeting, then chuckles a tad nervously. "'Little?' Come on, Larry. I'm just as grown as you! Just lacking... ah, sixty pounds of muscle and a head or two."
"Not going to picture it, not going to- ...Damn it. I need drinks - and fast!" Clive laments. For his troubles, he gets poked in the side by his partner, which of course barely affected him due to height, armor and the power of sheer smugness.
"Please allow me to introduce Rosemaiden Mia Vespertine and Town Guardian Clive."
"His surname is Ashcraft, which is clearly the most overdone name ever. Thus I usually just go with 'Snowflake'," Mia says.
"As long as I'm your special one, Freckles."
"And he wonders why I don't see a career for myself in the Guard," Mia deadpans, then put up a smile for Lawrence. "That said, it's good to see you, Larry. And yes, we were planning to celebrate. Obviously under thinly veiled excuses of various kinds, as we are technically on patrol. And for the love of the goddess , please drop that title or I'm going to- to... stop you from getting drunk today!" she claims, seemingly meaning it - somehow?
Larry roars with laughter and tips up his mug, spilling just a little down his left cheek to his neck before he wipes it with a finger and licks the finger. "Waste not! But seriously Darius. Introductions? Mia and I have been friends since.... Heck, I don't even remember when we met. She was just" He holds his mug out, looking seriously at it while raising and lowering tia bit. "about this tall. And she was a quickling even then. But I always tried to help the littler ones."
He looks again at his now empty mug and smiles at Clive. "I thinks it needs a refill. Cayden demands it! Clive, care to join me on an inspection of the next inn? But Mia? For the Love of the Goddess, you will not stop me from enjoying my drink." He raises his mug and leads the group, whether or not they follow, to the Rusty Dragon.
"Mia and I have been friends since... Heck, I don't even remember when we met."
"That'd be about... eight years, by my count. Our parents were friends, both store owners," Mia explains to the others. "Can't deny I was pretty young back then. But not young enough to be spared all the jokes about pairing up the two of us if all the other prospects dried out. I seem to recall his mother was always going on about those," She chuckles. "Say, how did that work out in the end, Larry? Did you find someone nice to settle down with?"
"I thinks it needs a refill. Cayden demands it! Clive, care to join me on an inspection of the next inn? But Mia? For the Love of the Goddess, you will not stop me from enjoying my drink."
"Who said anything about keeping you from your drink? But someone has to look after your health, no?" The priestess gives a mysterious smile and who knew what plans of misschief were being concocted behind those blue orbs? "Then again, if you don't tease me about my title, maybe I won't have to," She winks and begins walking past.
Clive, meanwhile, salutes Larry. "Aye, Sir Lawrence. Sampling the beverages - a noble persuit worthy of the guard and concerned citizens alike! I would gladly sacrifice myself my time, body and mind to the cause of-"
"Clive. The festial started like ten seconds ago! Most people haven't even had lunch!"
"-Drinking one ale. It would be impolite to refuse the call of good Cayden, now would it?"
Mia groans, then looks to Brother Darius for help. "Why am *I* the responsible one?" She mutters.
Darius grins to himself. "Caydenites. And recursive patterns throughout the universe." The paladin sighed. "I guess we should follow them,
make sure they avoid trouble."
"Say, how did that work out in the end, Larry? Did you find someone nice to settle down with?"
Larry cringed at Mia's comment and question. "It took years to get her to stop. She tried to fix me up with any girl in the neighborhood, regardless of age! Last time was when I was still 24, and she was talking with a halfling mother that had a 13 year old daughter. That mother got a glimpse of me and headed out faster than I've ever seen a halfling move! I told Mom to stop it then and there. I'm only 26. I'll find someone once I'm ready."
Hearing assent he raises his mug. "To the inn for a refill then. And then we can check on the games!"
| 1 person marked this as a favorite. |
The two cousins sat down at the bar, Sahlara calling out, Two mugs of your best cider. Veera eyes her incredulously. Oh don't give me that look. Today's a day of celebration and that means alcohol, not tea.
A server plops the drinks in front of them before quickly moving on to the next group. One can celebrate with tea... But- very well. She takes a careful sip of drink, a cringe striking her face, which makes Sahlara snort. An acquired taste to be sure.
This isn't even the hard stuff. You should see some of the swill dwarves will chug down. When was the last time you drank? She eyes Veera suspiciously.
I'd imagine... last summer when I was visiting you. She takes another reluctant gulp of liquid.
Oh, you remind me of me when I first moved out here.
Please, Veera rolls her eyes you've always had wildness to you.
Yeah, but it was only a small wildness.
Veera sighs sarcastically. And it's been growing ever since. Sahlara shoves her playfully.
Darius, Larry and Mia headed towards the Rusty Dragon Inn, obviously the top choice for food within the festival, due to how the nearby buildings had to rent the outdoor space for tables. The three entered the tavern to see the bar surprisingly available, with only two women sitting there.
"Welcome to the Rusty Dragon Inn!" a half-orc buster yelled out over the chatter, "Sit wherever you can find a spot! Food's on the house, liquor is half off today!"
"Guess we're here early. Everyone must still be out and about," Mia says as she enters with her childhood friend, current friend and prospective friend. "Well, their loss. Free food at the best Inn in town AND no waiting time! Perhaps this wasn't such a bad idea." She smiles and sits at an empty table. "I'll have a tea, please. Oh, and some of those delicious mystery dumplings if I may!" She says to the bartender.
Studying the other patrons, her gaze falls on the elf women at the counter. "Hm? The one on the left seems vaguely familiar..." The priestess mutters.
| 1 person marked this as a favorite. |
Larry gets a refill of ale for his mug, then asks what food is available with meat in it. "Bread and potatoes are a good start and base for drinking. But meat builds muscle!"
Seeing the only other table with two women quietly drinking and talking he strolls over. "I think I've seen you here recently. You should have some food with your...." He eyes the drinks. "Cider? Maybe I'll try that next. I usually stick to ale, the preferred of Cayden Cailean." He raises his mug and takes a swallow with those words.
"But where are my manners on this day of festivals!?! I'm Lawrence Hastings, but my friends call me Larry, usually. My other friends over there are Mia, Darius and Clive. We're getting a little food and drink, then we'll be going out for the games. Care to join us?"
Darius makes a simple smile to the two attractive elven women, and respectfully sits down next to Mia. The caydenite makes the opening greeting to the elven women, knowing Cayden Cailean's certain affinity to some of the elven pantheon.
As he sits down, making sure Mia is comfortable, the paladin takes out his lute and readies it to play.
A dark haired lady kept walking around the establishment, making sure everyone’s having a good time. As she passes by the group, she laughs, “Deverin, Larry, glad to see you two here! Deverin, the stage is yours if you wish to play there! And who might these two be?”
"Can't fault Larry for his confidence." Mia grins as he straight up asks both Elven women out right away.
And who might these two be?
"O-oh, um, I'm Mia, Madam. Just a novice acolyte. I... help out a bit in the town watch. I'm nothing special, really." She says, embarassed. Everyone knew the Kaijitsu were a very influential and rich family in town, which made Ameiko one of the very most succesful enterpreneurs in the region. She was kinda like royalty in a way. To have her attention even for a moment was both an honor and embarassing.
The latter even more so given how the Sczarni had inevitably robbed her family directly or indirectly in the past and how she could only hope the other woman wasn't aware of her involvement.
"I like all the festival preparations you did. And thanks for the food. It's very generous of you, Madam."
"Deverin! Larry! glad to see you two here! Deverin, the stage is yours if you wish to play there! And who might these two be?”
The tall well-dressed varisian with the iridescent eyes smiles and nods at the tian-min bar owner and takes his lute to the stage.
The aasimar sits down and begins to play an well-known elven melody.
Larry looks around and grins at Ameiko. "Ameiko, I was just speaking to these lovelies. I'm sure I've seen them a time or several, but oddly I haven't actually spoken with them or asked for a name. I'm not sure how I could have committed such a social gaff.... Except, well...." He takes another drink and considers that maybe he should slow down or he might miss the competitions.
Hearing Deverin start playing he sits at the lady's table and turns to listen. "Thank you for having a seat available. He's really good!" Recognizing the music he starts to take a deep breath to start singing, but then remembers that he isn't really any good. Maybe later after he has more drink. A lot more drink.
Darius’s music livens the place up even more, if that could be considered possible. Many who are familiar with the tune sing along, a couple dances to the music, and one man even uses spoons to play impromptu percussion. After the performance, people toss coins at him with cheers.
Mia finds herself humming along with Darius' music. [i]"He's really good at this. He could easily make a living just playing a lute. Correction: *is* making a living doing it, judging by all the coin thrown his way.
"Hope I'm not expected to be that good at something one day. Whatever it may be." Mia says, cautiously eyeing the door.
"Hey. Just relax. No one is asking anything - of either of you. And no one would have asked anything if he didn't offer," Clive says, enjoying his ale. "Worry later. Right now, this is a celebration with free food and drinks. And if you're not having any..." he grins and snatches her tea. "Then I'll be forced to have yours!"
When the tune finishes Larry turns to Veera and her companion and grins. "He's pretty good isn't he?" Then he remembers that he hadn't actually been invited to sit....
"Oh. You didn't invite me to sit here did you. And I didn't properly introduce myself? I'm Lawrence Hastings, but folks usually call me Larry. Except for Darius there, the musician? He tends to be really formal, I think cause he's sort of a Knight for Shelyn or something like that? I'm a local so I'm in here a lot. I've seen both of you a few times think, but I don't know your names.... ??" He considers standing back up, but waits as he looks from one to the other for an answer.
Oh, it's the raucous one. Veera thinks as she turns to the familiar voice. I've been spending too much time in this place if I recognise his voice. I'm Veera and this is Sahlara.
As the dark-haired lady makes her way around Sahlara thanks her, You're the best Ameiko. She passes her gaze over the newcomers. I think I vaguely remember you guys. Well, at least I can't forget a face like that. She waves flirtatiously at Darius.
They both applaud Darius' performance. Ah, a Shelynite. That explains his skill. Veera muses mostly to herself.
I'm a local too. Well... I've been here five years, don't know if that's long enough to count as local. Veera's my cousin, she's just visiting.
I'm from Magnimar. Shall we sit with your friends? Veera moves over to their table, Sahlara following close behind. Veera notices Mia sipping on some tea and jabs at her cousin. Looks like someone knows how to celebrate.
Oh please, she's probably on duty. You guys are all apart of the guard right? Sahlara gives their get-ups an inquisitive look.
Larry turns his attention back to the lady's when he hears the response. "Veera and Sahlara. Thank you. And if you've told me that before after I'd had too much to drink.... I'm sorry that I didn't remember. Cayden approves!" He raises his mug but you notice that he only takes a sip this time.
He hears Sahlara mention that she's a local. "Yes, five years would count as a local. Well, with reasonable people it would. My grand parents moved here after Fogscar South, the little town that they were trying to create was destroyed. My father was a child then. I've lived here all my life except when work takes me on the road. This is a good town."
"Yes. Good idea. We can join them. More conversation with more people enjoying the festivities!"
"I work with the sheriff sometimes too. Or with caravans as a guard and driver. They like having some bigger guys along in case anyone might be stupid enough to attack."
"Oh hey, it IS you... Veera, right? Did you ever do anything with those answers on the lost expedition?" Mia asks the arcanist when joined. Truth be told, it was both a surprise and uncomfortable topic when the other women had suddenly appeared at the shop to ask about her father's disappearance. But years had dulled the pain - mostly - and she'd eventually shared what she knew of it with the student of Thassilonean lore.
She returns the other elf's greeting and makes room at the table by shuffling close to Clive, who stiffens at the contact - only to get promptly elbowed in the side as her tea was counter-stolen back from him with a grin.
Wearing an outfit of vibrant red and blue colours to match her wavy hair and eyes and possessing a pleasing fusion of human and elven physical traits, Mia was attractive by most standards, though what stood out most about her was a certain liveliness that tended to catch the attention of onlookers.
"And yes, we... well, Clive here is part of the guard. Me, I just... ah, help out at times as a healer, mostly," she continues. "It's nice to meet you again, Veera, and you, Sahlara. Do you have anything you want to do during the celebration?" She asks the elves.
Wyssal is up fairly early in the morning despite working late at Risa's Place the previous night. Fear of sleeping through part of the Swallowtail Festival motivates her out of bed. She lets Odette sleep on, getting dressed and ready to leave quietly. Wyssal does however write a quick note on a piece of paper for her friend, pre-scolding her if she doesn't make it to the festival on time.
After grabbing a tied up handkerchief holding a couple of pastries she'd grabbed from Risa's Place the night before, Wyssal sets off up Festival Street then left on High Street up to the Cathedral. It's too early to be there for the festival of course, venders are only beginning to set up tables in the open commons in front of the cathedral. But, Wyssal expected to be too early. She continues on across the area to the The Way North, pushing open the front door and going inside.
Veznutt has tea ready, and Wyssal transfers the pastries from the handkerchief to a plate. Between the two of them, they carry the light breakfast out back and sit down with it to watch the beehive as it starts to come to life for the day. Wyssal and the gnome bicker a little about exactly when they should raid it for the first time. Wyssal recommends waiting for several more weeks, while Veznutt is less patient. They also speculate on the precise hue of gold the honey inside will be based on the combination of flowers they know are around in the area.
An hour of so later, with the pastries and tea all gone and agreement they are both thrilled at how well their little experiment is going, Wyssal leaves to check in on the festival. It's still early, but she can begin shopping, or at least browsing, before the things for sale have been picked over. She doesn't have much money to spend, so Wyssal will have to see what's out there to be had, then narrow down her options to probably no more than a single purchase.
Wyssal hopes she's lucky enough to find a belly chain she can afford. Odette has one that alternates a stretch of fine silver chain links interspersed with a tiny round golden disk every inch or so. Wysaal thinks it's dead sexy and wants something similar, but not too similar. It wouldn't do at all to appear to be copying Odette. But, given what's in her purse, Wyssal might have to settle for an anklet, or maybe just a new skirt.
While she works her way through the various vender's tables, Wyssal keep an eye out for Odette, feeling sure her friend will be late ass usual.
Darius takes his gold coin and pockets it to be donated later. The well-dressed man with the iridescent eyes sits down at the table with everyone.
"Happy Swallowtail Festival, ladies. I am Darius Deverin, paladin of Shelyn."
Larry motions with his tankard as Darius reaches the table and introduces himself. Fortunately it isn't remotely full anymore a doesn't splash any out. Of course no Caydenite would ever waste good ale! "I could have won coin on that if any'd take the wager. Mr. Formal with his charming introduction. Hello Sir Darius. I'll let the lovely's respond for themselves though so you can continue charming them."
His smile is very wide, over-riding his seemingly annoyed wording. Obviously he is just 'ribbing' a friend. "Excellent performance by the way. Can I buy your next ale as a thank you for the music?"
Ameiko gives a hearty laugh as a server hands them their food and drinks. "Well I'll leave you be! Make sure to enjoy the games after your meals!"
It is a nice town. I certainly prefer it to Magnimar. Here, I'm free, for the most part to pursue my craft, I'm a glassworker. And while I've been trying to convince Veera to make the move, she'd miss her libraries. Sahlara gives Veera a teasing look which She ignores for the most part.
Oh, hello Miss Vespertine. I sent a letter back to my professor and hopefully, something can come of it. At the very least we should discover what happened to the expedition and ensure it won't happen again. Best not to make promises though. She smiles reassuringly and silently thanks that the conversation moves away from the obviously painful topic. As Sahlara hinted, I'm a scholar. I'm particularly interested in history and the arcane.
Sahlara's attention shifts at Darius' approach. A paladin of Shelyn. Well, that explains the beautiful... tunes. I'm Sahlara, artisan of glass.
Veera rolls her eyes. Feel free to ignore her, if you want. I'm Veera, servant of Soralyon. She lifts up a wooden carving that depicts a spire covered in strange runes.
Finishing off her mug Sahlara slams it on the table. Whew. That's a good idea let's head over to the festival.
His smile is very wide, over-riding his seemingly annoyed wording. Obviously he is just 'ribbing' a friend. "Excellent performance by the way. Can I buy your next ale as a thank you for the music?"
"Perhaps later, caydenite", the iridescent-eyed aasimar grinned.
Sahlara's attention shifts at Darius' approach. A paladin of Shelyn. Well, that explains the beautiful... tunes. I'm Sahlara, artisan of glass.
"Aah! an exquisite and intricate art", Darius coos. The aasimar takes off his holy symbol for a moment. "Miss Sahlara, may I see your hands?"
The paladin gently takes both elven hands and lightly rakes the holy symbol of Shelyn over Sahlara's hands."Eternal Rose, please bless these hands into thy service, and may they continue to bring Beauty into Golarion and beyond."
Veera rolls her eyes. Feel free to ignore her, if you want. I'm Veera, servant of Soralyon. She lifts up a wooden carving that depicts a spire covered in strange runes.
"Soralyon. I think I've heard of that name. Soralyon is one of the Empyreal Lords, I believe."
Finishing off her mug Sahlara slams it on the table. "Whew. That's a good idea let's head over to the festival."
"Sure, I'm game."
"Feel free to ignore her, if you want."
"But why would anyone ignore such a lovely lass?
Finishing off her mug Sahlara slams it on the table. "Whew. That's a good idea let's head over to the festival."
Larry tips up his mug, than slams it down, grinning at Sahlara. "I agree. Let's go!"
"Feel free to ignore her, if you want.""But why would anyone ignore such a lovely lass?
Those who are really observant might have notice the slight furrow of Darius's brow, as the caydenite began to woo Sahlara. But the paladin reminded himself that there are two lovely elven ladies. And a caydenite flirting with elves is just the way of things.
"I'm Veera, servant of Soralyon."
"Oh, I remember that one. Father Zanthus recently went over the... Imperial? Empyrial... Um..." She looks at Darius for help, relieved he provided it. "Yes, those! Soralyon, the Mystic Angel. A lord of monuments and keeper of arcane secrets, right? Really dangerous secrets, he stressed. Is that true, Veera? What drew you to him as a patron?" She wonders, the other woman not particularly striking her as a cultist.
She observes the following interplay where both Darius first and then Larry second hit on Veera's friend in rapid order in their own, radically different ways. She felt a bit oddly left out, wondering if the other woman was really that much more physically attractive. But perhaps that was just her fate; half-elf making her an elf-minus compared to a fullblood.
"Knowing Larry, one silver that he'll pass out before long. Caydenites and discounted drinks - recursive patterns throughout the universe, am I right?" She whispers to Darius and winks at him in passing as the group begins heading out to the festival.
"*Ahem!* Mia, are you saying we get a drunk a lot?" Clive says from the rear.
"...Yes?"
"...Touche. Still, I get the sentiment, Sir Darius. We should all live by the solemn code of not courting another's girl, do we not?" He asks, giving him a meaningful look.
"Psst! Not so loud! And not to be mean or anything but she just met both of them... isn't it a bit early to claim she belongs to either?" Mia asks on the way out, any potential implication going past her just then,
The Deverin son stifles a chuckle. "Good one, Rosemaiden."
Larry glances around at the party. "Courting another's girl? Shame on you Darius! You know I'd never do such a thing! And Little Sister? Every Lady here is lovely in my eyes, as well as Cayden's! And all deserving respect from every proper young man. No Lady is property!"
"I thought you and Darius knew me better than that!" He looks almost upset enough to swear off drinking! Well.... maybe?
As the group exit the Rusty Dragon, and Wyssal traverses into the streets, there's games all around that everyone can play, and they're constantly encouraging other contestants.
Larry looks around. While he wasn't actually stupid he surely didn't want to match wits with any spellcasters, so the Riddles and Rhyme game didn't appeal. Several others looked like they could be fun.... "How about that Red Barrow Run? I need to hear the rules again. Anybody know how it goes?"
A local gnome looks up at Larry and manages to tell the group, with much enthusiasm, how the race works.
Mia shares a glance with Clive and grins. "Is this where we sacrifice our dignity to make sure these wheelbarrows are safe?"
"'We?' What do you mean 'we'? You're the one sitting in that thing like a kid, aren't you? I'll just be the strong and dependable gentleman coerced along for the ride," Her partner says, amused but offering no objection to forming a team.
Larry grins. It sounds like fun.... "Does the driver and the rider switch halfway?"