The foe's eyes flutter for a moment then open. He groans as the large gashes in his stomach and neck, created by the claws and maw of Tristan's large hunting companion, begin to mend and close, sewing themselves right again. As his eyes float open, he is bombarded by both Ninn and Tristan - two players with two separate rites of interrogation - who seek to bring the dark secrets of the rebel attack back to this man's mind. Coughing and rasping for air, the man struggles to speak. "You serve the Imperium and call me a traitor? Perhaps ..." *gasp* "...perhaps you should look no further than your own faces to find traitors of Ren."
He gasps and breathes in deeply, struggling to get air in his lungs as one of the Imperial guards approach. "Behold! That which I speak of! Traitors to Ren! Traitors to Aris!" The guardsman takes hold of the man and pulls him close enough to silence his tongue with a swift blow of his arm. "Silence dog! I thank you each for your continued loyalty to the Empire." He takes the man in shackles as he continues to scream obscenities directed towards the Empire. "The Imperium is pleased with your works, so you have leave to continue with your duties to your country."
The now prisoner forces his way out of the guard's arms for just a moment and rushes towards our heroes. "You will all bow as slaves before the Chancellors and the Empire! You will NEVER stand free!"
Katani 'Stormrider' narrows her eyes at the guard and his prisoner... but wisdom wins out... she keeps any comments she might have said to herself... contented to have the company of the handsome Half-elf at her side.
But the feeling of ...foreboding does not fade from her mind...
Tristan ignores the prisoner as he is dragged off to whatever Karone has in store for him. "Well that was interesting." He mutters to himself. "Does anyone here know a good weaponsmith."
Thral, still nonplussed by Katani's attentions, is a bit pie-eyed. "Well, er, I myself am still exploring the city, having only just arrived today. I was hoping one of our companions would know a good bar, or, in lieu of that, we could strike out and see what fortune holds. In, uh, in the taverns that is. With...people in them. Other people. Around. All over."
Turning to Tristan he says "I'm afraid I know as little of weaponsmiths in this city as I do good taverns. Maybe the search for one can lead to the other, unless any of the others have an idea? Ninn? Luc?"
Katani, bursts out in laughter... it is an honest gusty laugh ... at her 'feral-kitten's' shyness... it only makes the chase more... interesting!
"Hahaahaahhahaaa!!! I'm afraid, I am as much a stranger to this crystal-spire city as thee... Thral... but wherever there is good drink merry-making and fine company... I'll follow contented! And ease yourself... adorable Thral... no one is going drag you into a dark corner and ravish you... I know there are many lonely men in this city - fear not I'll protect you from such advances... until you ask me not to, or... thee are the one doing the ravishing!"
Her smile is... stunning, and just a little ...wicked.
I have an idea. Tristan says as he looks around spotting a street urchin. Hey, boy if you show me and my companions to a tavern one that is fairly priced and clean. Also to a weapons trader. If you accomplish both these tasks I have this for you. He dances a gold coin back and forth across the knuckles of his right hand.
Thral relaxes visibly. "Yes! Good drink, that would be marvelous. Hopefully everyone can come and we can figure out our next move. Where do we begin if we are to root out these...Enemies Of The State, for lack of a better term...?"
After helping carry or divvy out whatever loot is worth it, Thral will begin heading for the door, with anyone else interested in coming along.
Katani will help carry the loot and will comment, "...I think the Blue and Gold robes of the fleeing 'rebel' wizard... might be a clue... if was can determine. If those robes are specially made or denote a rank or position... within the city's notable organization might be implicated. I think one of the scatter announcements mentioned a wizard tower in town that might harbor the miscreants..."
Spellcraft Take 10!:
Craft: Alchemy Take 10!:
Identified Items
1x Scroll of Water Breathing
1x Scroll of Protection from Energy
4x Potions of Cure Moderate Wounds
2250 GP
Mundane Equipment
Four pairs of Studded Leather Armor
Two pairs of Leather Armor
One Chain Shirt
Three shortswords
Two bastard swords
One greataxe
One crossbow
Twin daggers
One shortbow
After identifying all items, our heroes ask around about a local place of relaxation and revelry. One of the nearby adventurers, a half-orc, chuckles and agrees with you about a drink or two. "Try the Crimson Heart, run by a girl named Calalee. Biggest and best joint in this part o' Ren. If you're looking for something nicer, head over to the Market District and check out Rosie's Cheeks. Helluva walk and Rosie ain't so rosy no more, but her drinks are still damned delicious. Course if you can afford it, you can easily take the Skyrail over to that district. Bit more expensive, but guaranteed to get you there by the end of the day. Been there once before when I could afford it and got to say that the view sure as hell was damned good. Watch out for the filches that hang near the stations though. They'll just as soon cut your throat AND purse-strings as lend you a hand." With his informational entries done, the adventurer saunters off with a wave and a nod. Three other friends of his - a devilish humanoid, a half-elf, and a small gnome - jog to catch up to him.
A few minutes later, he runs back up to you. "Caelum almighty! Almost forgot to ask if them shortswords was taken. Got a pouch here for you if they ain't."
Looking around for confirmation, Thral says to the newcomer, "I don't believe any of us wishes to claim them, actually, so we'll gladly sell them to you, friend. And thank you for the information!" Turning to the rest of the party, Thral switches back to the topic of ale. "The Crimson Heart sounds like a fine starting point to me. The biggest and best place I would wager would also have some information to help decide our next move."
Ever the mercenary Katani steps up smiling, "Not so fast...'kitten', steel is steel..."
Cast spell - guidance
She regards the half-orc looking at his armament and the blood-splattered upon him from the fight and nods, "hmmmm...there are three shortswords... going price is about 10 to 12 gold each...say half value... how about 4 gold a sword...? You have the look of a warrior... and will appreciate a good bargain... gold puts food on the table right?" {she winks at the Half-Ork, smiling!}
Diplomacy Take 10!
Ever the mercenary Katani steps up smiling, "Not so fast...'kitten', steel is steel..."
Cast spell - guidance
She regards the half-orc looking at his armament and the blood-splattered upon him from the fight and nods, "hmmmm...there are three shortswords... going price is about 10 to 12 gold each...say half value... how about 4 gold a sword...? You have the look of a warrior... and will appreciate a good bargain... gold puts food on the table right?" {she winks at the Half-Ork, smiling!}
Diplomacy Take 10! 10+3+1
"...though I reckon Ninn should probably handle negotiations with innkeepers and the like. Any of the rest of us would inspire an immediate call for the constabulary."
The half-orc simply smirks and tosses the pouch of coins into your hand. Waiting a short while for you to count it reveals that there are 5 PP total in there for the three shortswords. "Sorry but we ain't got change." Taking the shortswords, he saunters off back to his party and they vanish in the crowd. As you traverse off towards The Crimson Heart, it takes you about half an hour to get there.
The Crimson Heart is a small tavern that looks big enough to house maybe 100 people. There's nothing special about it that causes it to stick out from any of the buildings around it save for the wooden sign hanging just above the door. There are no words on the sign - just a picture of a dark red heart. Moving inside the tavern is hustle and bustle with people - none of them noble in stature though you do notice some Imperial guardsmen lazing about before their shift starts. There is only one table capable of housing the six of you and that is occupied by a lone elven gentlemen wearing attire akin to most apothecaries. There are also two seats at the bar next to a brutish-looking hobgoblin and a gnoll, who sit deep in conversation with each other.
Luc smirks to himself - justice is served indeed as the guards come by to take the prisoner. He almost spoke out to the guard, but left it to its own devices. It's here he watches the events unfold, and he decides that for now, it be best to step back - and take charge when it is a true time for his authority to be born.
However, he does not agree with the Crimson Heart suggestion - it does not fit him to enter such an area, and it brings unneeded attention to him and the few people he trusted - but goes along, knowing full well of what will occur when they get there.
This is their undoing, he told himself. They want the most secret place wit ht he most obvious people. When they find nothing, they will understand.
Without sharing his wisdom, he does not enter the tavern, but move to stand in the alley outside. He murmurs small words, and stores more negative energy within his blade , and relaxes. He begins to look for those who would have connections by mannerisms from outside, for he wishes to not be caught in a rattrap.
Tristan glances around the tavern looking at all the current patrons. Checking for any armed patrons and any that seem to be to interested in the group.
As the fool man is dragged away, Ninn stands, her fists begin shaking as she barely control's her frustration. 'Soleil's grace wasted by foolish pride again! All that effort wasted and I learned NOTHING of the mage!'
As her frustration fades, her features soften as she was pacing her breathing and focusing on being serene once more. After achieving her desired state of calm she smiles at the thought of adding that enemy mages spell book to her own. Maintaining her calm, she turns around to find that everyone is suddenly closer then she expected. Her smile broadens in satisfaction now that, thankfully, she wouldn't have to go hunting for the wounded.
"If your looking for a weapon-smith I can help you. I am very familiar with a forge, though I do admit that I am not as good as my father in the craft." She smiles as she flexes her calloused hands. "But he is much too busy producing goods for the empires military to do any requests these days. Also if you need a guide I can show you around, being born and raised in this city has its... advantages, one could say. But first, I must know if any of you are still injured?
She starts looking for obvious injuries, starting with the newcomer. As she 'looks' for injuries she is impressed with what she saw and especially at this 'warrior' woman's ferocity. Her golden eyes shine mischievously as she gives Katani a warm smile, Ninn focuses as she quickly casts prestidigitation hands move quickly performing the necessary gestures to cast. As she finished casting Prestidigitation she ponder a moment before she started moving her hands in slow almost delicately , performing the simple gestures one must do to use this novice spell. "This simply won't do, hmm, perhaps... Yes~ A touch here, to... oh yes that color is perfect, it truly brings out the fire in your spirit~" Through the help of the spell Ninn slowly removed the gore, which had to go, so she could see Katani's full features unmarred by the enemies spilled ichor.
She continues to smile as she removes the filth and gore from Kitani's skin and clothing, at least what she could see~. Once finished she focuses finally on Katani's strawberry red hair enhancing it with her spell to became a much more fiery, lustrous strawberry red and smelling of fresh srawberries. She continues to perform these minor tricks on the others, enhancing this and cleaning that.
"So which tavern do you prefer~? Because I could seriously use a stiff drink after today."
"...though I reckon Ninn should probably handle negotiations with innkeepers and the like. Any of the rest of us would inspire an immediate call for the constabulary."
Noting that Luc chooses to remain outside, Thral bellies right up to the bar in the Crimson Heart, feeling much more in his element. There is a brief pang as he recalls many enjoyable wasted nights having -- perhaps rather ill-advised -- drinking contests with his dwarven friend Ulf, the results of which neither of them could ever remember. He smiles to himself, then the memory passes and Thral calls out to anyone from the group who came with and who might be listening; "If the rest of you want to lay claim to that last table, I'll get the first round and bring it over. What'll you have?"
She hadn't expected Thral to pick up the tab, she finds herself reconsidering her drinks. She didn't feel like burdening these new allies she has made, especially not until she understood them better. There was much to learn through simple observation. Finally deciding what to drink she places a hand on Thral's arm for a moment to get his attention, once she has it she gives him a warm smile.
"That is most kind of you Thral. I will take a small whiskey on the rocks, if there is any to be had, if not I will just have a dry ale.
She moves to the side of the table that has its back to the wall, as she sits she casually keeps her hand on her Battle Asper. She didn't trust bars very much, too many men get tanked and when they start thinking they can get 'touchy feely' with the weak mage... They get burned. How she wished her dogs were here, they were good to have just in case.
As she waited for the others to sit down she took note of the Inquisitors absence and sighed. She was much too tired to keep track of that man, let alone understand what drives some to wander off in the first place. She runs her eyes across the bar patrons and finds herself oddly amused by the sight of a gnoll in the bar, she quirks a smile at the rare treat and continues to peruse the patrons. Shortly after sitting down the table starts cleaning itself as she idle continues to use whats left of her spell.
The half-orc simply smirks and tosses the pouch of coins into your hand. Waiting a short while for you to count it reveals that there are 5 PP total in there for the three shortswords. "Sorry but we ain't got change." Taking the shortswords, he saunters off back to his party and they vanish in the crowd.
Katani smiles at the Orcish warrior, "Ah...for shame then, I'll not cheat an honest being... here are your shortswords..."
Then pulling forth her own money pouch hanging upon a necklace string and nestled within her bodice she hands the orc warrior her 3 gold and takes only two of the platinum pieces.
She then salutes him respectfully in a warrior's fashion, "Live free, and die well... warrior!", in farewell...
Katani hefts the great axe and smiles... she had now won her own Great Axe in battle... she would carry it proudly - the true weapon of a barbarian.
She starts looking for obvious injuries, starting with the newcomer. As she 'looks' for injuries she is impressed with what she saw and especially at this 'warrior' woman's ferocity. Her golden eyes shine mischievously as she gives Katani a warm smile, Ninn focuses as she quickly casts prestidigitation hands move quickly performing the necessary gestures to cast. As she finished casting Prestidigitation she ponder a moment before she started moving her hands in slow almost delicately , performing the simple gestures one must do to use this novice spell. "This simply won't do, hmm, perhaps... Yes~ A touch here, to... oh yes that color is perfect, it truly brings out the fire in your spirit~" Through the help of the spell Ninn slowly removed the gore, which had to go, so she could see Katani's full features unmarred by the enemies spilled ichor.
She continues to smile as she removes the filth and gore from Kitani's skin and clothing, at least what she could see~. Once finished she focuses finally on Katani's strawberry red hair enhancing it with her spell to became a much more fiery, lustrous strawberry red and smelling of fresh srawberries. She continues to perform these minor tricks on the others, enhancing this and cleaning that.
Katani... is... dazzled, by the beautiful Aasimar woman's attentions. normally, when dealing with men she would have been far more resistant and wary...but a sister of her gender... taking the time to pay attention to her... and one so lovely at that... awes her.
Again ...dark memories of her time in the Temple of SHALIMAR stir within her heart... the touch of the priestess', their gentle career, their agonizing cruelty... how she screamed and screamed until she could scream no more ... both in passion ...for the heights of pleasure they tormented her with and the depths of despairing agony that they scourged upon her flesh... Sometimes she would wake at night aghast breast heaving in painful memory of her ordeals... and other times how her body would ache for the terrible pleasure they taunted her with..until her heart trembled with desire...
... she gasped at the Aasimar woman's attentions swallowing hard as she forced the dark memories down, knowing she must NEVER go back to that... madness would follow. To Ninn her attentions seems to cause the fiery warrior woman to ...almost gasp with ...desire{?}... but she composes herself, and smiles at her ...in a sisterly fashion. whatever dark desire stirred in her... she has quelled it for a moment at least and she chuckles lightly at her cleansing spell.
no her surprize the Barbarian woman addresses her in Celestial...
She takes her hand and draws Ninn after her as she strides next to Thral occasionally glancing his way to smile at him.. but mostly speaks with the Aasimar woman conversing in Celestial as they make their way through the city to the Tavern.
As you traverse off towards The Crimson Heart, it takes you about half an hour to get there. If you choose to sell the mundane gear along the way, you receive 189 GP total for the lot.
[i]As they travese trough the city Katani asks Ninn for advice and does indeed sell the remaining mundane weapons for their resale value. She makes meticulous note of splitting the gold received equally among the party. Share and share alike. Unsure how to split the Platinum pieces she just held onto them until it was ...equitable to divide their value.
He smiles to himself, then the memory passes and Thral calls out to anyone from the group who came with and who might be listening; "If the rest of you want to lay claim to that last table, I'll get the first round and bring it over. What'll you have?"
Entering the tavern Katani grins broadly, smiling in delight at the common tavern. she watches for signs of danger but is mostly interested in getting a stiff drink to refresh, and enjoy herself in drink and merrymaking from the days butcher's price.
She laughs gustily with the atmosphere and calls back to Thral, "AYE Thral... The be a great choice.. I'll take the strongest mead the have in this swill hole!"
Seeing as her 'feral-kitten has chosen a place at the crowded bar... Katann takes a seat next ti Ninn and continues the small ...friendly talk with her...
Tristan after his search of the tavern walks over to the mostly empty table flashing a smile. "Do you mind if me and my companions join you? Have you heard anything about this crazy talk of rebels? We just returned to the city today from the Garen wastelands so we are a bit behind on the times."
After being so tired from the days events and conversing so lively with Katani, Ninn didn't realize that she had ignored the other occupant of the table until Tristan had spoke. Quickly hiding her surprise at such a grievous error, she hastily stands and pushes her chair back under the table.
She bows apologetically and addresses the lone elf in elven. "Oemveela sa mywalalala, E saill'an le ellaycan fa laeananelv ameanireyan eleleanilaneel."
Thral, having ordered drinks, brings them back to the table. He nods hello to the one stranger who had already been there as he passes drinks around to his companions.
Luc stands vigilant as always. With his back to a wall, he felt he was in his element, but not in his setting. No, this was a bad set-up - the moment he walked in, everyone would know something was wrong. The Templarate of Caelum does not just walk around and have drinks. There's a strict code they have to follow, and he groaned as he thought of how it might ruin their mission.
It still bothered him even now. That woman was an issue to be dealt with - she forces herself on the others, and they drink it up as a starving cat might lap at milk, he thought to himself. Soon, she will come to an impass, and they will turn to someone more reliable. After all, it's not like I'm planning some diabolical plot to murder the Chancellor.
He chuckled at that thought lightly, and looked around the alleyway - then looked back into the crowds, and hoped for some luck.
Katani, brazen as ever looks over at the elven male as Ninn stands but does not move from her seat. She smiles.
"Well, my mistake, fey-one... me thoughts my friend here {inclining her head toward Ninn}, was invited to this table and I missed your offer to sit in the din of the carousing...
Mind ye if we stay... or are you waiting for companions of your own to show?"
She turns her, now, strawberry-Reddish haired head toward Thral and smiles appreciatively, "My thanks, my 'feral-kitten'... this should assuage some of my thirsts..."
Her smile is playful...
Katani, drinks gustily still remaining seated, waiting for the elven male's reply...
Under the guise of drinking, Katani darts her eyes about the room to see if any are watching this particular table or the elven male seated here... for she reasons ...{'There must be something particular either about this table or this elf that has encouraged all other to keep their distance...?'} From her experience in such social matters such avoidance could spring from two sources, fear of the 'reputation' of the person or fear of the 'purpose' to which this table is usually used for...
Vaguely Katani wonders where 'hardhead' scuttled off to...
The elven man nods and waves his hand, ushering you to take a seat while responding to Ninn in the same language she spoke. "Laili shyr mi shaesia thaer sesaer shael eil aestia maer mai vaedolia vaerael airaer." He smiles and bows his head to her in respect before switching his speech from Elven to Common. As he looks to each of you, he nods a greeting then waves Tristan off when the man attempts to Bluff him. "Save your tales, Dhampir, lest you be a bard. Though take me not as rude or untrustworthy for to show my courteous side I shall introduce myself. I am Nevas Taralom of the Wood - Niyra's Forest to be precise just to the south of here on the fringe of Lake Meronia. Noticing even Katani on edge, he offers small words of encouragement though his demeanor and tone suggest he doubts she'll take them as comfort. "Consider yourselves welcome and trusted in my presence lest you present a case as to why I should disallow hospitality. And to what name should I tell legend of when the bards speak of Ren's newest saviors?"
"None would see weary feet turned when an empty seat so readily presents itself."
You recognize the phrase as a common greeting amongst followers of Natal - the goddess of travel.
Currently you determine that nothing is amiss though you do take note a pair of guards half a block away harassing two individual males of short stature that you determine to be halflings.
Katani smiles at the elven man and speaks up, "Well met - Nevas of Niyra's Forest. I am Katani 'Stormrider', Sell-sword and Mercenary Ranger... devotee and Summoner of the mysteries of CERELIA."
There is a metallic buzzing at her waist from her metal scabbard, [Bzzzbzzz! bzzzbzzz!]
Katani rolls her eyes, glancing at the sword hilt as she places a hand upon the grim-looking mithril hilt, "You behave! No, insolance... I'm not in the mood...!!! Don't spoil my good company!"
And she grabs hold of the sheath and slides the blade from it about half-way out resting it across her knees, unthreateningly. A soft pale grey light emits a small circle of shadows about them.
She continues, "...~and this, dour, companion of mine is GREYNEXUS - who had best kept a civil tongue...lest I sheath him again for the evening...!"
The blade emits a furtive metallic toned voice, [...you ill treat me too far sometimes, witch. So you've decided to swill more mead, try not to get into more trouble like last time!]
Katani raises an eyebrow, "Whats that...!?!"
The blade's light quivers as Katani the begins inching it back into the ornate metal sheath, [...{sigh}. Greetings master Nevas Taralom... are the elves of Nyria's Forest - beset upon by barbarians of the north as I am...?]
Katani snorts in laughter leaving the sword half-sheathed across her knees so it may still converse as she gustily downs her mead, muttering, "That's better..."
Thral arches an eyebrow at the talking sword in Katani's lap, eyeing it warily. Then, after taking a drink, he inclines his head more deeply, politely, to the elf who had already been at the table. "Well met, Nevas. I thank you for allowing us to join you here. 'Saviors,' you say? Do you speak of the events at the Great Hall today, or some possible future event? If it's the former, then I am impressed at how fast word travels, though given how brazen an attack it was I confess I would not be surprised to learn word of it had spread rather quickly through the city." He takes another drink. "If it is of some future event you speak, I'd ask what information you had to offer. At least part of my goal in coming here was to take time to think over our next move after receiving our, well, our options, for lack of a better term, from the powers at be for elminiating this...rebellion? uprising? currently under way here in Ren."
Tristan is momentarily taken back at the quick dismissal of his story and even more by his knowledge as to his race. How could you tell what I am? Not many people know about us and those who do assume we are no different than vampires.
Katani looks over at the Dark Slayer, tilts her head in curiosity peering at him over the top of her flagon, "What's a 'Damp-ear'?" {She says the obviously unfamiliar word incorrectly}.
"...I expect he would have figured you're not a vampire as your walking out in the sunlight! I just thought... you were some sort of totem warrior and had made the fangs of your ...'Zero'{?} part of your nature..."
She smiles, "You still never told me your name... Dark Slayer?"
GREYNEXUS speaks his metallic voice, tinged with sarcasm, [Dhampir... you uneducated brute! A Dhampir is a half-vampire... born of a mortal woman impregnated by a male vampire... sometimes... the opposite occurs... though it is very rare.]
Katani does not seem to notice the sneer, "Really!?! Interesting... do you still feed on blood...Dark Slayer? That wicked finely crafted mithril double-sword of yours obviously does...!"
She smiles appreciatively and winks at him.
Luc silently notes this - it is the only thing of value, and he actually walks away from his post a moment towards the interjection. He keeps a keen ear as he begins the approach, hand rested on his sheathe whilst the right hand sat limp to his side. It is here that when he gets there, he makes a quick interpretation on whatever he has heard.
The name is Tristan. I have a blood lust that is similar to vampires but I don't required blood to to live. Though I refuse to fall to that part of my heritage. Though sometimes the only thing that saves me from the thirst is having Aria by my side before that I was only barely able to resist. He says quietly as he takes Aria's hand in his as if she is his life line to humanity.
Nevas chuckles at Thral's assumption of a soothsayer. "Well met to each of you. And nay, Sir Kitten, as Katani of the Northlands would have you be called, I am merely an observer. The flyers and pamphlets and bards and guards have been speaking of today's events for many months now. As for the Battle at the Hall, I myself played my own part in it as I'm sure most of you did as well given your less than appealing appearance currently." He glances over at the ladies. "Though take that not as an insult, fair maidens, for not even bits of gore can take from your beauty. As for yourself, Sir Tristan, your stride is less-than-human, not to suggest you are not equal in nature to a human more as you are simply a man who carries a large burden on his shoulders. I have met many of your kind, sir, but none have I ever had the pleasure of drinking with."
You judged nothing to be amiss upon entering. Quite a few individuals carry weapons, but then again, so do you. You do notice a few individuals giving the table a wide berth. Not everyone, but a few.
As you approach, you vaguely make out the guards threatening to take the two off to the dungeons. You also assess that the guards are trying their best not to be overheard. The halflings are arguing in kind that they've done nothing wrong. The two appear similar and you ascertain that they are probably related - most likely brothers. "Come on now! We ain't done nothing that warrants Imperial attention! We was just minding our own business, we was! What makes you think we's going 'round talking rubbish about you lot and those you serve? Just picking on us 'cause we littler than you, I's wager. Ain't got no brain to do much else, I's wager too! Just leave us alone so we can take our business elsewhere. Maybe convince a couple other guards to push us around for NOT saying nothing 'bout the Empire." Despite their best intentions to leave, you can tell the guards aren't letting them. The small halflings may be brazen in their accusations, but from what you hear and can see with your own eyes, you determine they aren't far from the truth.
I gathered as much and had no qualms about doing so if needed. You bring an intelligent weapon into game, expect me to play around a bit. A fun perk of being GM.
"More of my kind? He asks still off balance by this elf. "Please no sir unless you count a vampire lord their is definitely no noble blood flowing through these veins. He says as he raises his right arm his sleeve falling back revealing a few of the glyphs that flow across his right arm, shoulder, and chest.
"Well glad to finally allow you to have a drink with one of us." He says flashing a smile revealing the teeth again.
She smiled warmly at Nevas response, easily understanding the origin of his words, and bowed her head in respect to what could possibly be a traveling priest of some repute. She tried to hide her annoyance at the bits of grime and gore that remained even after she had used her spell... She couldn't fathom how or why her spells were failing her so... But yet again proof that she was somehow slipping...
That was not allowable, no, not if she wanted to succeed. She had to become stronger.
With a quiet sigh, she realeased her pent up frustration and became serene once more. As she took her seat back next to Katani, quirking an eyebrow at the conversation going on, she became distracted by the back and forth between everyone and everything she was learning about them! As she smiles, filled with the satisfaction of learning something new about those around her, she starts to imagine how best to utilize their talents. It was then she noticed the drinks that Thral had so graciously provided. As she accepted her drink and started to give thanks for his kindness, Tristan pulls up his sleeve revealing the strange runes that seem to flow across his right arm and with a quick glance she understood the meaning of the symbols.
"You have my dearest thanks Thrall, I will have to repay you sometime for the courtesy you have shown." She gave him a warm smile and a sly wink before returning her attention to the others. Ninn didn't have Katani's raw... drive or advantages but Ninn was very partial to strong individual's and the more willful they were the more interesting they proved to be~ But now she was understanding why Katani was so unique. She was a Summoner for pete's sake! Ninn would have never had guessed it, not with the way Katani carried herself. No... Katani was possessed by the fighting spirit of her barbarian ancestors and yet the power of a summoner must have lay dorment in her bloodline... It simply boggled the mind! What were the odds that so many with such raw talent and potential had gathered in one place so easily.
Wait. What had Nevas said, 'Saviors of Ren'? Preposterous! She was but a lowly apprentice... He must be joking... that couldn't possibly be right...
As she took a long draw on her drink as she pondered the meaning of Nevas's words.
"As much as I find this interesting, I do not understand how I have a role to play in this. Forgive my ignorance but I have just met these unique and wonderful people only hours before. Please Nevas, if you would humor me by gracing us further with your wisdom. I would be most grateful." Her warm smile had faded slightly when she considered the implication of his words, that soon she would have even more enemies to contend with...
Great... Thats just bl@@dy GREAT...
"My name's not Kit-- oh never mind." Recognizing that battle to be lost, Thral instead raises his tankard to Ninn. "If this goes as most of my 'adventures' -- for lack of a better term -- have gone, there should be ample time for the purchasing of ales for each other, and ample reason." He smiles and has another drink. "Now, Nevas..." he starts, turning back to the elf "...as Ninn says, we should all like to know more of what you heard, and what may be on your mind as regards the information on the...well...'paperwork' that was handed out. I confess I'm at a loss as to where to begin, so any information or even opinions you might have in this regard would be most welcome."
Katani grins at Tristan setting down her mug of mead, "Then well met Tristan, faithful husband of Aria! I am honored to met thee and thy lovely wife! I can tell... by how tenderly you share your affections with thy beloved mate... you are noble of heart... and the darkness within... is one YOU control. I have no fear of thy company."
Katani turns and smiles for Nevas, "No insult taken Sagely Taralom. Beauty is best spiced with a little blood, sweat and grime... its called life!"
GREYNEXUS groans in its metallic voice, [{sigh}... Is "everything" with you an innuendo of your... endless lusts?]
Katani retorts, "Your just jealous!"
Katani laughs lightly at Sage Taralom's 'Sir Kitten' remark and then solemnly says, "No Sagely Taralom... I do not want the 'bards' to mistake him. The handsome tall fey-touched warrior is the valourous Thral. I see within him a gentle and courageous heart; despite the cold efficiency of his battle skill... he is not cruel - such men are rare, and... precious."
GREYNEXUS snarkily remarks, [... and your still gonna try to bed him! You growing sentimental now ... you shameless hussy?]
Katani smiles, "Hush you! Of course..."
Luc nods firmly as he overhears all he needs, and walks up to the commotion plain as daylight, and clears his throat. It is here he uses his appearance and his badge of office, so to speak, to influence and gain more information.
"Excuse me, gentlemen, I couldn't help but overhear only parts of this issue we have in the middle of the streets here. I am one of Caelum's Knight-Templars, named Luc. What seems to be the issue here, because I see no reason for us to be arguing in broad daylight. Perhaps if I could hear the whole story, we could resolve this and move on with our days."
It is here he smiles, and puts on a rather striking appearance - and in some ways, it is far more intimidating than him with a frown or any other expression.
"I can imagine the stories already. The brave 'sir kitten' faced the charging hordes fearlessly blades flashing in the failing light." He says which is possibly the first joke he has truly said. "I think it has a certain ring to it don't you think?" He says clearly enjoying him self as he takes a sip of the red wine Thral brought to the table.
Katani chuckles,"Now, now...don't tease Sir Tristan. I'm sure your woman Aria has some pet name she calls you in the dark of night when she embraces you in hungry arms...?"
She smiles jesting good-naturedly, and gestures over her shoulder to a passing serving wench for a refill of her mead.
Aria shifts in her seat allowing her leather boots to slide off her heals slightly in hopes to comfort her sore soles. She reclines and leans slightly over to Tristan and pats his thigh gently in an intimate and loving manner. She reaches over to take a sip of wine savoring the fragrance between her lips and tongue. Oh how the bitter-sweet medley lingered in her throat! She began to feel a bit more relaxed until she listened to Katani as she said,
"Now, now...don't tease Sir Tristan. I'm sure your woman Aria has some pet name she calls you in the dark of night when she embraces you in hungry arms...?" .
Before she could stop herself, Aria’s shoots at first a quizzical brow and a smile that appeared wider than the rim of the cup began to surface, followed by a crescendo of giggles. Aria couldn’t help but poke some fun at her uptight husband.
“Oh, you have no idea!” She says in between sips of wine, “He is often known behind private doors and in chambers as my “bat in shining armor”, he always gives me a big grin when I call him that…Oh damn I think I said too much...”All the while her voice trails off and she hides her face behind the wine filled cup trying not to laugh. She couldn’t help her mischief especially after having grown up in a brothel. The workers there always had an affinity for humor, often making men into the comedic relief. Never out of spite, only in jest.
It was pleasant for Aria to be in the company of two other strong females. She couldn’t help but admire them. She welcomed the humor from Katani with another smile and a small nod. Aria sits up a bit and looks over at Thral and smiles as she says,
“Well Thrall, now you know the true identity of our dear Tristan. He be bat and thou a cat, friends for life if you ask me!”
she kept nudging Tristan with her elbow. Anytime she can bring a bit of light to the table, Aria will seize the opportunity. She couldn’t help but recognize in Katani the pure and raw sensuality that she possessed. She felt like she was conversing with a sister-worker. She loved that she was so open and playful with Thral and thought of all the times in private that she would tease Tristan the same manner. Another smile began to etch her face. She was also mystified by Ninn.
Tristan's jaw physically drops open upon hearing Aria. What...I....merciless saints Aria! He manages to stutter. "I'm going to need another drink." The dhampir says after downing the remains of his wine.
As Ninn listened to the jests and good humored jabs at the men-folk, she smiled more and more as she was barely able to contain her laughter at the newest 'pet' names the men were receiving. She watched the reactions of those around her and felt warmer, more carefree, perhaps it was the whiskey. She did have a low tolerance for it but it had been such a long time since she had enjoyed such good company, too bad their other comrade couldn't have joined them. His name escaped her, but she would memorize it and every minute detail of the man as well. She had been interested to see him loosen up a little but he was so wound up tight that he couldn't even enter a lowly bar such as this...
Feh...
She casted him from her mind as she focused back on the interesting banter around her, she smiled mischievously at how much the men seemed to squirm. She gave Aria a sly wink and mirrored the womans broad smile, Ninn was barely resisting a giggle at how Tristan began to stutter in response to his wifes playful teasing.
She smiles at Aria "It is a pleasure to meet you Aria, I am Ninn Elen'Lain, and may I just say that you are quite remarkable, especially keeping your persuasive husband in check so easily. How do you do it~?"
Ninn kept an eye on Nevas, awaiting the man's response but also fearing what he may say... In the mean time though she wanted to keep the day lively and entertaining~
“Oh, you have no idea!” She says in between sips of wine, “He is often known behind private doors and in chambers as my “bat in shining armor”, he always gives me a big grin when I call him that…Oh damn I think I said too much...”
His eyes bugging out, Thral half-chokes on the mouthful of Ale he had just taken, his coughs giving way to uproarious laughter at what Aria has let slip. Or, 'slip.'
“Well Thrall, now you know the true identity of our dear Tristan. He be bat and thou a cat, friends for life if you ask me!”
"Indeed, Lady Aria, indeed!" Thral raises his mug to Tristan, clinking glasses with the Dhampir. "Well met again, Sir 'Bat', it seems the ladyfolk would make sport of us both on this day, and how! Hahahahaaa! I believe to keep the fun going this curious 'Sir Kitten' is going to inquire at the bar about the possibility of getting another round for you all. I'll return shortly!" Thral drains his mug and walks back to the bar, getting wine for Tristan and Aria and Nevas (), mugs of ale for himself and Katani, and another whiskey for Ninn.
On the way back he glances around for signs of Luc, or anything else interesting, just as an instinctive reaction to being in a crowded place.
"Yes it would seem that way." Tristan mutters as he looks over at his wife who is having to much of a good time. "Well Sir 'kitten would you appreciate some help with the drinks?" After making it a safe distance from the table Tristan talks to Thral in a low voice.
Alas! She thought, the mysterious lady aasimar speaks and what a lovely smile! She was very happy to finally talk with her.
"Ninn? That is a lovely name! As for keeping dear old Tristan in check, well that is a funny question, you see my husband gets a wee bit uptight at times and I have to bring him down to earth or that stern lip gets the best of him,"
She couldn't help but giggle some more as she proceeded,
"I am very happy to finally make your acquaintance. You fought bravely at our side, I admire strong women like yourself!"
With a big smile she gave a nod of respect to Ninn.
Aria couldn't help but notice Thral's laughter and raised her glass at him,
"And you, brave Kitten, I thank ye for this lovely drink!"
All the while patting poor Tristan. She sneaks a little peck at Tristan's cheek before he gets up. Fortunately Aria can hold her drink down a little, she had plenty of practice over the years from living with "colorful" people. Her cheeks still managed to get rosy and she still got the giggling fits. She was always a merry drinker.
Katani looks first at the dark-haired, raven-eyed, buxom beautiful Aria - armed with her firearms and exotic gunblade - fascinated by the proud and capable elven woman. Then she casts her gaze at the otherworldly towering pale-skinned golden-eyed beauty of the Aasimar woman Ninn clad in her mithril plated workman's coat and her heavy Battle Aspergillum slung at her side - no weakness in her gentle eyes. No 'soft-women' these... not the pampered courtly 'proper-women' who... 'know-their-place' and make babies for half-wit boorish men enslaved to their whims and desires. No meek, mindless, silent, 'damsels' here but strong, fearless, independent... she-wolves - knowing who they are and what they want from life; taking their fate in their own hands and seizing their destiny with their skill and spirit!
Katani smiles at each woman in turn, "...tis is a strange fate... that brings me to the company of such like-sisters. Well meet, bold sisters... in all my travels... never have I seen your like! I... walked alone... facing death and violation... with only my belief in myself to gird me on... Never did I suspect... that other willful sisters of my own spirit would I meet."
He expression softens and changes... subtly to something... new... gratitude perhaps?
"If it please thee... let me travel with thee... bold sisters, and share our fates in love, and loss, triumph and defeat... for as long as thee can afford me? I think perhaps, faith and the blessing of CERELIA hath led me to thee anon.. that, though dark may the road be I must travel... I need not walk it alone, but with fellow sisters... cast into the shadows, but not consumed by the dark."
The darkened silver disk embossed with the symbol of CERELIA upon her breast glimmers in the tavern light.
Katani raises her mug in toast, "To lost sister's found and rejoiced with!"
GREYNEXUS groans in his metallic voice, [...somebody disjunct me! Please!!!]