Please miss you are more than welcome to join us. Quinn bows offering her a chair.
Bofgar raises a fuzzy eyebrow, "Thank ye miss...?" He pauses for her name than continues, "The joke was that would-be thug earlier! I still can't believe I knocked him out by throwing Gimthic at him. T'was a first."
Violant Aurori, errant acolyte of Calistria, but my friends call me 'Vee.' she says, to Bofgar's query, And your name, kind sir?
She takes the chair offered by Quinn, with brief bow of gratitude and takes up some cider for her own drink, as well as some of the sharp Andoran cheese.
"Bofgar Morarr, dwarven battlerager, mercenary, and bodyguard," he says flourishing a meat pie. "Wielder of Gimthic"
He named his meat pie? she thinks for a moment, as he flourishes his lunch, and then figures it out. That is certainly more axe than you'd need for any local ruffian, so I'm hardly surprised it finished him off so quickly!
I am Quinn Thinwhistle and am pleased to meet you. Quinn takes a meat pie as he pours a mug of cider for himself.
On stage the Young male bard from your previous visit looks to the kitchen entrance and seems to finish up his song a bit quick then one might have expected. Bowing to the Female half-elf that has entered through the staff entrance per her usual. He holds up a hand to the applause that he gets for his abrupt ending of his skilled tune. Ladies, gentlemen. he makes a face at the crowd and smirks. Gentleman, I should say he says to a particularly aged halfling in the corner. The name for the rest you males I'd probably do better to not mention. the Crowd laughs, The female half-elf walks toward the stage even as she, removes her cloak and drapes it over the young Mika, who is grinning ear to ear at the woman's arrival. It is my pleasure to introduce, and soon your pleasure to bask in the musical talent of, Ilishna Blackbow! He starts to make his way off stage when Ilishna collars him and reels him back.
Ilishna speaks like a cool breeze in the sun baked desert.Oh, no you don't Brant, you have a lute and two working hands, if I am singing,it won't be with out you playing. she whispers something to him and he nods. She smiles a breath taking smile that you can't help but feel is meant just for you. As her voice pierces the Melody of the lute, you notice most are captivated and paying attention.
Quinn gets all excited as she takes the stage. Thats my mentor Ilishna taking the stage she is a renown pathfinder. One day I hope I have half her knowledge of adventuring and lore.
Violant sways along with the music unobtrusively, but appears to be more fascinated with the lute-work than with the singing. When it ends, she claps politely and looks to Quinn, Do you also sing, master Thinwhistle?
Violant sways along to the music, and appears to be more rapt with the lutework than with the singing. She claps politely when it ends, and looks to Quinn, You say she is your mentor, are you also a singer, master Thinwhistle?
"Perhaps now is the time, Thinwhistle, to see if there is a quest you kin take? When would be better than as you have a table of companions. Mayhaps she has a rumor or tidbit for you to follow?" prods Bofgar merrily enjoying the tune.
Quinn blushes a bitOh no, I don't sing at least not in public. I am still learning to sing. I am a storyteller mostly. Ilishna is teaching me the secretes of bardic magic and performing. I am sure she will come over after she is done singing. I would be happy to have you all meet her. Quinn beams with pride at his teachers beautiful performance. Oh how he hoped that today would be the day he was given his chance to become a full fledged member of the society. He couldn't wait to put his know-how to use, and with his knew companions all showing up on the same day it was almost like Cayden and Desna were saying today is the day. Go forth into glory. Everyone notices a big grin creep over Quinn's face as he obviously looses himself in thought.
Ilishna finishes the song on a long note and bows, giving brant the stage back. she walks back off the stage and heads toward your table with little Mika in tow folding her cloak for her. She smiles at the table of Five. And sits down with out asking. Quinn tonight is a great night to have made friends!I think your chance is coming soon!
the red haired half elf sits cross legged and Catrin brings a mug of Khave that is steaming to her. She smiles at the group. this could be lucrative to them all if every thing works out.
"An excellent song, Miss Blackbow," applauds Bofgar, "Always a pleasure to hear you sing."
Quinn beams Everyone I would like you to meet my mentor Ilishna Blackbow. Ilishna these are some new friends Bofgar Morarr, Taecuss dyn Bru, Violant Aurori, and last but certainly not least Krom'gosh Chainbreaker. indicating as he goes first the stout dwarf, the brooding elf, the lovely Varisian girl, and finally the gentle giant.
Responding to Ilishna Quinn perks up Oh do you think so? You have a mission? Well I can't speak for everyone, but I know I am ready to prove myself to the society!
Ilishna smiles warmly at Bofgar, "thank you, it is a pleasure, I know better than to try to sneak by Brant without a song. He puts the crowd against me if I don't give them at least a song.but tongiht I ave news that made me want to put time on the stage aside." She then follows the point Halfling's finger. "Nice to meet you Bofgar,Taecuss,Violant and Krom'gosh. I have heard a particularly juicy rumor and I think that we stand to profit from it, if my sources are correct. There is a tower in the Cairnlands that has been impenetrable for hundreds if not thousands of years, well two days ago during that tremor it seems that the the world did what years of spell casting, siege engines and tacticians could not do. it opened the fortress. Here is the good part. I have already had an offer from a temple of Shelyn, they have reason to believe an artifact of theirs is in the temple and would like it returned, they are willing to pay a 1000 gold."
She smiles and leans in as the last two words got some unwanted attention from nearby tables. "and as if that wasn't enough to wet your whistles, their is a a historian after any collectible relics that might be found. He is willing to pay 250 gold to each brave adventurer that goes in, so long as he can have first shot at any relics you might find."
She holds up a finger as if she isn't done. "Lastly word is that pompous Balenar Forsend was seen near the fallen fortress and hasn't been seen since. I don't like him, but if he is in trouble he is a fellow pathfinder and I don't want to see him harmed." the last part was added and seems like she might not mind so much.
Quinn listens intently as the details pour out. He speaks in excited yet hushed tone How will we know this artifact of Shelyn? Second by relics does he mean magic, or is he interested in antiquities? Oh and is he wanting first chance to purchase them, or is he looking for pick of the litter for his investment? Yes Quinn was in his element he had been waiting for this moment for years.
Know local
"Your lucky day, Quinn! No clue who that Balenar fellow is but this sounds like a chance to prove yourself and make a little scratch on the side," Bofgar turns towards Ilishna, "In the Cairnlands you say? The plain full of siege towers noone knows what about just outside of town?"
Oh he is a blowhard of a bard with not half the talent of Mistress Ilishna! The look on his face if we get to save him will be priceless. Of course if he is ok he will treat us like we are all rookie know nothings trampling on precious history that only he knows the true significance of. Quinn waves his hand as if the very thought of the man frustrated him. It never hurts to rescue a pathfinder though. Good way to make points with the venture captains.
Ilishna smiles at her apprentice and Bofgar. Well, The artifact of Shelyn is supposed to be a small winged statue made of Jade. The Historian is interested in non magical artifacts, He thinks magical items would be more trouble to keep around then they are worth. which suits me just fine. He still wants to Purchase them from you, I think he may have more money than he knows what to do with, the thrill of a collector I suppose. she shrugs lightly, not worrying about why the man is willing to pay them to go and more still for what they bring him. Aye, Bofgar, the Cairnlands, it is close, about four hours or so. I am however weary of what the tower was sealed so thoroughly for, and there is also the fact that if it opened the one, that other things could have stirred in the area. this day of luck could be one for you all if you are interested in the society, this task is one that would be a boon to proving yourselves to the pathfinders. it doesn't hurt that it pays well too.
That sounds acceptable to me Taecuss. Violant Would you care to join us in this endeavor? Quinn asks Do you have a map or can give us details on how to find the Tower Ilishna?
Well spoken Taecuss,and Quinn I can give you directions to the cairn lands, from there it should be easy to find, five stories tall among the typically more rotund three story forts. The area however has always been rumored to be a bit dangerous, even before that miniature earthquake. make sure you are well prepared, before you head out. She speaks softly. I will personally vouch for your worthiness upon your return should any of you be interested in the society. Her had pauses on Quinn's shoulder anticipating his excitement.. I already know you are interested and will be happy to start the paperwork as soon as you return.
Quinn looks like he is fit to burst. He shakes his head rapidly afraid if he speaks he may not be able to contain himself.
Violant sounds excited by the tale, It sounds like a race against any others who might have heard this news. I can be ready to travel in moments, as my traveling gear is in my room.
Shall we depart immediately, rather than allow the news to precede us?
Krom watches the festivities with a passive smile on his face. Clearly being in the mood to simply sit and listen and absorb the atmosphere rather than talk about himself. Once the topic turns to adventure, however, his interest is piqued.
"Looks like this was our lucky day after all," he rumbles good-naturedly. "And if others have heard of it, then a believe a merry race is underway. Let us depart at our earliest leisure!"
Violant vanishes for a few moments, to seize her backpack and shield from her room, and is back, slightly out of breath, in a flash.
Well I thought you all would want to wait for the morning, but if you are for going now then let me get ready. I will be right back. C'mon Pepper.The large black shaggy dog hopes up tail wagging he follows the whirlwind that is Quinn up the stairs. You all hear a bang as a door slams open. Quinn rushes into his room and opens a chest at the foot of his bed. he pulls out a backpack that looks like it has very little in it then a bunch of leather straps with rings and smaller straps hanging off of it. Pepper whole rear end starts to rock back and forth not just his tail as the dog sees the harness. Thats right boy we are going on a big walk. Quinn quickly fits the harness into place making sure it isn't rubbing wrong or that the pads aren't under the buckles. A strange looking pack saddle comes out of the chest next which Quinn fits onto the harness. A bedroll, satchel, and assortment of items get tied down with straps. Quinn checks off items with his hands as he goes. Hook, rope,crowbar, hammer & pitons of course, Scroll cases, tools yup. he double checks the backpack to make sure the small items are in there as well before tying it down as well. He gives a good scratch behind the ear to Pepper. OK boy lets go. on his way out the door he grabs his crossbow and bolts. Quinn comes tromping down the stairs with Pepper right behind him only moments after leaving the table. I'm ready! he pants.
"Boy, a dwarf spends most his life in the dark. Ye've got to answer when adventure calls. Ask yourself, how could you sleep knowin' some two-bit purse thief might be sifting through your treasure," Bofgar says checking his own pack and weapons. "If it's only four hours than I be ready to go. Perhaps we should hire another wagon to take us there? To speed things up and have somethin' to carry out loot away with."
"One of the good graces of being 'afflicted' with my bloodline is the ability to see in the dark with the skill of a cat--and a do believe that good master Bofgar is likewise gifted. We can lead the way, master Quinn, and if trouble befalls us, one can always light a torch."
Krom grins from ear to ear.
"I say, yes. Let's hire a wagon and get ourselves down to that dungeon. The thrill of the moment sings in my blood, a clarion battle-song! The need to explore surges through my veins! The need to discover pounds inside my heart!"
No need my friend. Illumitis! Quinn waves his hand, a quick finger gesture and his hand glows with light. He smiles It doesn't last real long but I can do that as often as I need.
" Oh, yes I think that the lot of you will do nicely, joining the pathfinders. She smiles as the advturers get the spirit in them."I will be here upon your return, I have some local work to attend and a few nights at the saytr seem like a good idea to me." she unrolls a piece of parchment and sketches a map, the tower is marked with a circle and a X. she sketeches a few of the towers around it as well.
"An excellent parlor trick, Quinn," comments the dwarf as he studies the map.
Bofgar heads outside the inn, "I'll flag us a wagon and let's be off!"
Quinn accepts the map from Ilishna when she is finished takes a quick look at it then slips it into one of his scroll cases. We will do our best Ily! Quinn bows slightly then bounds after Bofgar; Pepper hot on his heels. Outside he adjusts his gear in Pepper's saddle making sure everything is secured. He also adjusts his weapons obviously unable to stand still waiting for a wagon master to stop.
Ilishna nods to Quinn and the other's I'll send Violant out front when she comes back down. Smiling lightly as Quinn seems like he can't wait to get on the move. Taecuss, Krom, Keep them safe. She says to the remaining pair.
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A familiar Wagoner turns the corner bringing another batch of people around to the pub. "This is the place I got those meat pies, boys! I wish I found this place sooner." he can be heard telling a group of young men, they look like they've been at a long days work.
He pulls to a stop and looks to Drogar and Quin. You Gentlemen don't stay still for long do you?
Quinn explains We are off for the Cairnlands! We would appreciate a ride as far as you are willing to take us, and we will pay well!Quinn hops up into the wagon The rest of um should be along any moment. Quinn turns looking for the rest of the companions. Pepper once again jumps up into the wagon happy to be getting out twice in the same day.
Holding his shield over his shoulder, Krom hauls his ponderous bulk into the wagon and settles himself into the seat across from Quinn, rolling his shoulders.
"I suggest we make haste once we're all here--who dares, wins."
Bofgar grabs the boarding rope and swings himself onto a bench beside the cleric.
Ilishna being one to conveniently forget the presence of other women at times looks up to the young lady and looks a little surprised to see her fast return. Well off with you then, Good luck, don't let them get too out of line! she waves to the last of the adventurers.
they grow up so fast.
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" My names Roland by the way, and I can get you most of the way there, I'll turn around if I get that itchy feeling but my boys here can cut some time off the road for ya, and if nothing else your feet will thank ya." Roland the Wagoner waits until given the go ahead raising his eyebrows at the lass but keeping his tongue polite in check where her garb is concerned. He will pull off onto the main road of absalom and break into a quick pace.
Violant tosses a backpack and her shield next to herself and swings aboard. Between the movement of her long legs and the close quarters in the wagon, it's soon evident that the dagger at her hip is one of at least three concealed about her person.
She makes room as the dwarf takes up position next to her.
The wonders of this city never cease to amaze me. Where else could one get a ride to adventure!
Quinn bellows into the tavern with a volume that betrays his trainingC'mon Tae your going to miss the ride.Quinn looks exasperated. Thank you Master Roland we are much obliged, And might I say if you keep steering customers our way I am sure mum would be happy to feed you for the service.
Bofgar has unslung Gimthic and begun to hone her edge with his whetstone, "Aye, thank ye as well, Roland. I expect ye'll have us there right smart. Soon as that elf gathers his muffins."
Quinn addsThose are good muffins.
Roland looks to quin and grins, those meat pies brought the costumers, this is the second batch that has asked me to take them where ever I got the food I was eating, it sounds like a lucrative deal for us both, I'll eat and advertise and the passengers will have no choise but to fall into the sawy of your family's cooking. I'll speak with them about it upon my return. "Let me know if you need to stop anywhere on the way out of town."
With a wave Roland gets you past the guards, that typically like to adventures at least a good talking to before they go out to find their way. but it seems that Roland knows them well enough that he has no qualms with not evening slowing.
As you go you see a two small groups that seem to be heading in the same direction. The disappointment easily painted on their faces as you cover the distance that they can't make on foot.
Roland puts his mind into getting somewhere and as you leave the city the horses seem to pep up at the fact they don't have to worry about other pedestrians and the hustle and bustle of the city. With in an hour you are easily two thirds of the way in and Roland pulls his wagon into a turn, The old man a couple hours back spoke with Quinn about where they were headed and changed his course a bit.
"From what i've heard"he points with a gnarled finger more suited to wrapping itself around a pair of reigns." that is the tower you are looking for." The silhouette of the dark tower is cut by the bright moonlight the cairn lands are a testament to the power of Absalom and its might to stand against the several ruined buildings in this would be ghost town.
Thanks Roland. Quinn hops downHow much do we owe ya?Quinn asks
The dwarf hops off the wagon with his freshly sharpened axe and stares at the fine architecture of the tower.
"How do ya suppose we get in?" Starting to move towards it to find an entrance.
Violant also nimbly hops from the wagon, somewhat relieved to be free of it's bouncing and justling, slinging her pack over her shoulder and readying her shield on her left arm, while draw the dagger at her hip to hold in her right hand.
At Bofgar's comment, she also turns to regard the unusual tower, all abandoned out here.
Quinn looks at BofgarHmm, I would imagine a crack in the base, or perhaps a door has been shook loose from it's frame. All part of the journey I suppose. Quinn pays Roland addingIf those others want a ride out could you take your time coming back out, or even take your time going back. I don't want ya to turn down business just make it a leisurely stroll please.Quinn winks