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As your traveling you come across a town with 12ft high wooden walls and with north and south gates.
When you pass through the town's gates you see. In the North west corner the Frozen A**, the south east corner has the BLT, the north east has the Pwn Shop. The town's centre has no buildings, but looks like space reserved for events and in summer used as a open market space for merchants.
The Frozen A**, Inn and Bar is the local pub and also has 2 small outdoor hot springs that are fenced. The Pwn Shop is a local General store and Pawn shop. There is a local blacksmith, lumber and tannery known as BLT.
Toryn Brightstep strides to the town's gates warily. His trips into towns and villages in the last decade have been few and far between, with this being his first return to civilization in over a year.
Hearing from the residents of the wilds of impending danger, though, he felt it was important to offer his services. Turning to his large, white-furred companion, Toryn says, "Stay here, Seras. No point havin' you cause a ruckus in town."
Seras bobs her head once, whimpering softly. The oversized wolf parks herself just outside the village, bright blue eyes scanning the area.
Toryn nods at his longtime friend, before turning to enter the town, proper. Let's see who I can talk to here. Surely someone must know about what is going on.
??
The barmaid is a human woman of about 5 foot 9. She has a curvy human build with pale skin, She has a pretty face and blue eyes and braided golden blonde hair that ends near her waist.
She is wearing a brown ankle length skirt, a white short sleeved shirt and a green bodice that assists with her figure. And a kerchief on her head.
She sees Toryn Brightstep enter
"Oh, a customer.
What can I get you, an ale? We have Agre's 11, Mountain Ale, Dragon ale, or the local ale."
Toryn eyes the woman cautiously. "I'll try the local ale," he says, moving to seat himself at the bar. Once settled, the Chelaxian looks around the room, curious.
"One local ale coming right up."
she walks into the back and comes back with the local ale.
"One local ale."
Toryn takes the mug, placing a silver coin on the countertop. "Thanks, lass." He begins to drink, stopping now and then to continue gazing around the room.
??:
a woman enters the room from the back
"Hey Mia, where do you want the old crates to be stored while the room is being cleaned."
Mia:
"Put them in the shed out back, Gardenia."
Allysandra stalks quietly in the town. Her most recent job over, she was traveling back home. It was late and it was cold, and a drink and some warmth were promising. But who should enter the tavern? Certainly not Allysandra herself, black of skin with fire-yellow eyes. Nasty Allysandra, the damaged.
Would it be Jasmine? Pretty human girl with smallish eyes and an easy laugh? Denise, half-elf, with the huge expressive eyes and tendency for fantasy? Nick, dark-skinned male of no humor? She had literally dozens of go-to identities ...choosing one was more difficult than assuming the character.
In the shadows she got the lay of the town. Small, slightly sleepy. Nothing too noteworthy. Not too attractive, lest unwanted attention come her way.
Of course. Alice. Alice the plain-Jane. Alice the average. Alice the unnoticed.
As the magic of her Hat of Disguised washed over her, her skin went from coal-black to pale. Light brown hair and eyes, modest dress. Entering the tavern she sees a handsome human man with a wary but noble look and the sort of barmaid you always found in this area, making up for extra weight by shoving it into her bodice.
"I'd like a drink, please."
Mia:
"Oh, another customer.
What can I get you, an ale? We have Agre's 11, Mountain Ale, Dragon ale, or the local ale."
"Mountain ale," "Alice" says demurely.
Mia:
"One mountain Ale, coming right up"
she walks into the back and comes back with the mountain Ale.
"One mountain Ale."
Bresna Rides into town on her heavy mountain horse. She leaves him at the stables. Bresna feels tired, road sore, and is more interested in drink than anything else. She enters the bar, Cheerful, but weary, shield and slim sword clanging lightly with her armor as she settles at the bar. She is near enough to the other patrons as is polite, without seeming anti-social. Always thinking about how others see her, is young Bresna. She raises her hand to catch the bartenders attention.
??:
"And what can I get the lady?"
Honey Mead, if you have it. If not, I'd like to try the local ale. Bresna is smiling pleasantly, though on closer inspection it might not reach the eyes. After giving her order, Bresna turns to the other patrons. My name is Bresna. I have been on the road to long with only the horse to talk with, so If you don't mind my asking, what brings you here? She has on the same pleasant mask, trying to be social.
??:
"Sorry We don't have Honey Mead, Hope you enjoy the Local Ale."
he hands over a stiener full of the local ale.
Toryn notices the two women enter, but does not seem particularly interested in them as he slowly works on his mug of ale. This place seems less lively than I expected. Maybe things are not as bad as I had been lead to believe? he ponders to himself.
I continued my walk looking for someplace I would not be recognized. Other parts of the region perhaps; anyplace that my mother forbade me to go; they had to be the best places!
The rain had stopped but the ground was still muddy I continued to splash in the mud puddles enjoying my freedom. But the joy was short lived so it seemed. I heard the boy’s voice from behind.
I turned to see but he was too far for me to see at least that was what I thought. Thank you mother, for ruining me I cursed her for the damage she caused.
I didn’t want to take any chances and I turned and assumed a fighting stance ready to stop the house guards from taking me back. I never fought them before but this time I knew I had to.
As the figure came closer I soon recognized the voice. No, it can’t be, from back in the upper districts? Yeah its him again
As he approached I said I can take care of Myself I yelled to him as I stamped my foot to the ground causing a stone slab to rise up between me and him That means NO!
I assume the boy stopped since I didn’t see him go around the stone. And within a moment or two the stone sank back to the ground.
I turned to continue on my way and was suddenly flipping over a wolf that was in my path landing face first in a puddle.
Blasted dog! Where did you come from? Go home … go on I grabbed a stick and tossed it hoping the wolf (or dog) would chase it.
I got up and tried to straighten myself up and made my way into the village now twice as soaked as before.
Now what is this place, I quite sure mother would disapprove. I muttered, This no place for a girl of your stature I mocked imitating my mothers stern voice. But almost instinctively my fist clenched up remembering yet another punishment. I picked up a rock NO! I yelled in anger, and it flew from my hand smashing into the wooden palisade surrounding the village ripping a large hole in it, wood splintered in all directions.
I soon calmed down and looked for a place to dry off. The forgotten…what?!? I pondered the place a moment a and approached soon realizing that I misread the sign and as I got closer realized what the place was. HA HA HA I had to laugh the Frozen A**, now I have got to see who is in here.
As I entered I tried not to let on about my limited sight and soon found a seat by the fireplace. I propped my feet up to feel the warmth of the flame and hopefully a chance to dry myself out. I loosed the tie in my hair and let my long hair fall. And with a quick whip of my head sending rain water in all directions I started to wring the water and mud out.
Seras' bright blue eyes stay fixed on the human woman, not even glancing in the direction of the stick. Her tail wags in an unconcerned manner, and she makes no noise, her large eyes blinking occasionally. The mighty wolf simply watches Valterra enter the town, sitting patiently on the outskirts.
the wolf simply stareing at her even after the stick.
What...do I look like dinner or something?
Terra gets up and heads into the village glancing back every so often
Stay...Stay.... She says holding up her hand as if to give the animal a sign, noticing the wolf not move Terra returns to her business confident in her animal handling skills
Bresna moves to the fire, hoping the newcomer is more conversational. Hello, I am Bresna. Judging from the state of your clothing, I beleive you and I have had much the same experience on the road this day! The pleasant mask is still on her face, a friendly smile. Valterra can see that Bresna's armor is just as stained as her own clothing.
Terra apparently not noticing Bresna's approach, at least until she speaks, nearly falls over startled by her appearance. despite the fact that it was most likely obvious she was approaching.
Whaaa.aa Terra's arm flailing as she looses her balance on the chair. she ends up falling backwards but quickly gets up.
Damn, thats twice in one day, first that stupid wolf outside now this
terra gets up finally acknowledging Bresna Oh, Hi, terra offers her hand to greet Bresna then sudenly pulls back, wait a minute, your not from the upper districts are you?
Once Bresna has a better look at Terra it becomes apparent why she failed to notice her. the milky glaze in Terra's eyes a sure sign of vision problems.
assured Bresna means no harm terra reintroduces herself. I'm Terra, and yeah you could say I have been travelling, you want to know a secret? Terra leans in a bit closer, Today is still the best day of my life
Terra throws her arms in the air Whoohoo, Freedom!
Toryn's ears easily pick up one of the newcomers mentioning a 'stupid wolf,' and finishing his drink in one last long draught, he stands and moves to approach them.
"Pardon me, ladies," he begins, "but did Seras give you any trouble? She tends to be quite docile when I tell her to stay put, but she is an animal, after all." The well-built man looks between the two women, looking vaguely embarassed that his companion may have caused them some trouble.
I honestly have no idea who this 'Seras' is, so no, I don't believe she has caused me issue! A sincere smile graces her small face, reaching her eyes this time. However, I don't believe Terra here is so lucky. Bresna extends her hand. I am Bresna. What might your name be?
Toryn shakes the woman's outstretched hand. "I am Toryn. Seras is my companion, a mighty wolf who was entrusted to me when she was just a pup. If she bothered either of you, I apologize," he ruffles his messy hair with his free hand, "She can be quite mischievous if the mood strikes her."
A wolf? Now, that is intriguing. I would love to see her, if that's not too intrusive. I have lived in a coastal area for much of my life, and have seen neither hide nor hair of wolves. Bresna seems very sincere, her attention fully focused on you (which causes you to realise you did not previously).
Terra finishes with her hair but listening to the conversation going on.
So...that was your wolf? mischievious? humm... and all I can say is no... he was no trouble except... he is mostly the reason I am all wet! emphasising the last part.
she goes back to drying her clothes out by the fire. At least he knows how to stay
Sorriel sings softly to herself, Vorbolini's Evensong Aria, as she rides into the town, though it hardly seems worthy of the title, and surveys the scene around her offering a few weary smiles to any townsfolk as she passes.
Seeing the Frozen Ass she sighs, already picturing the kind of company and fare she can expect in such an establishment, but knowing she must make the best of it.
She hitches Sunset up outside, scratching the big chestnut destrier behind the ears fondly and feeding him the last of her carrots, "Wait awhile Sunset you beautiful boy, Mummy will be back soon, yes she will."
And then she steps inside, unable to resist the urge to pose for a moment framed in the doorway, the light rippling green as her pristine mithril armor reflects the emerald green of her hair.
Flowing forward with the grace of a dancer, she moves over to the bar and meets the bartenders eyes with her own orange gold gaze, "Excuse me, do you have music here? I'm a bard you see and I prefer to pay my way with my music over coin if I can, I'm perfectly willing to let you, or the owner judge my performance for yourself and what it merits, but I promise you, you would not regret it."
Her voice is crisp and clearly noble, Chelaxian by the sound of it, but softened by a rich honeyed warmth.
A wolf? Now, that is intriguing. I would love to see her, if that's not too intrusive. I have lived in a coastal area for much of my life, and have seen neither hide nor hair of wolves. Bresna seems very sincere, her attention fully focused on you (which causes you to realise you did not previously).
Terra finishes with her hair but listening to the conversation going on.
So...that was your wolf? mischievious? humm... and all I can say is no... he was no trouble except... he is mostly the reason I am all wet! emphasising the last part.
she goes back to drying her clothes out by the fire. At least he knows how to stay
Toryn chuckles. "She can be a handful, but she is my friend and comrade. If you would like to see her, Miss Bresna, you are free to, but she will stay put until I tell her otherwise. A wolf nearly as tall as I am will generally not be terribly welcomed in towns or villages." His smile is genuine, but looks a bit melancholy. "If you'd like," he says, gesturing towards the exit of the building, "I would be willing to take you to see her. She gets lonely easily without me, anyway."
That would be interesting, though, perhaps later. I still feel weary from the road, but thank you Toryn. Bresna eyes are drawn to the newcomer when she enters. Bresna's eyes follow her to the bar, interested, at least in part, but more like wondering what she is speaking to the bartender about.
is this what its like to met people and make friends? how do i act, what do I really know about friends?
Terra seems a bit lost for a second or two in thought.
when Bresna turns down the offer Terra jumps up and takes hold of Toryn's arm I would love to actually meet your wolf. on friendlier terms this time around
What am I doing Terra thinks I just met him and her as she glances at Bresna and gives her a smile
after a second Terra lets go of Toryn's arm I'm sorry am I am being to forward, I mean we only just met and the last boy I just met I almost... well never mind him. Lets meet your wolf ...shall we Terra says with a mischievious grin
Could these people be real friends? not the fake ones Terra has always known?
Toryn nods, still smiling. "If you like. Seras loves company." The Chelaxian turns back to the woman behind the bar, bowing slightly, before moving towards the door, gesturing for Valterra to follow him. "Shall we?"
Bah! If I'm to be the only one to stay, I may as well go! Bresna stands and finishes her drink.
Terra goes and takes Toryn's arm but as Bresna decides to join Terra's fist clenches and she takes several deep breaths as some of the loose stones in the fireplace quiver in place for a few seconds, then stop.
Not here, she isn't mother, she means no harm Terra forces her temper to cool down before she turns to Bresna.
I want her to be a friend
Terra turns with a smile. We would be pleased to have you with us
Tell me Toryn, what do you think of nobility? The people I mean, do you respect them?
Toryn's smile falters at the question. He shrugs lightly, trying to blow it off. "I don't think anything of them. I can only say that the cities of men are no home of mine," he begins, attempting not to glower as he speaks, "and however they choose to run them is of no interest to me. I make my home in the forests, where the only nobility is based on how kind and just one is, not where his blood comes from."
He shakes his head, then the smile returns to his face. "But enough of that. Let us go."
Terra seems quite happy with the response from Toryn her smile seems to hint at a common belief except maybe the forest bit but there are rocks in the forest too...aren't there?
If you don't mind the intrusion, what brought on your question of nobility? Bresna seems to stare at Terra, her face the epitome of curiosity.
Terra will discuss as they go to meet the wolf.
Well, I was born into nobility, I hated every day of that life. always being told how to behave, how to speak, how to walk. I never had freedom, I could never make my own choices. Always doing what my parents wanted.
Terra pauses a moment I can't believe I am saying this
I never had friend, you know, real friends. Sure I knew other girls, but they didn't care about me. All they did was talk about the newest fashions, the newest make-up, and the newest boys. They all hated me, they were only friends with me because I was the daughter of a General. Sadly, I was only friends with them because they were the daughters of other important people. But I didn't want any of that, I would smash all their faces into the walls before I talked to them if I had the choice. But my mother wanted me to be friends with those girls, so I had to.
A tear starts to roll from her eye and she wipes it away Terra tries to hide it but Bresna can still see it, the tyear is mixed with the slightest amount of blood. apparently a wound that never healed probably the cause of her impaired vision.
I don't ever want to go back to that I needed to know, can you guys be friends, I mean real friends. All the kids my age I had talked to were all into unimportant things. I had never had anyone actually talk to me about how they felt or anything else that was actually kind of personal.
she stops a moment
listen to me just babbling on lets not worry about it anymore, it was a dumb question anyway
Toryn tousles the girl's hair, smiling sadly. "I understand better than you know." He continues towards the outskirts of town, matching step with the girl holding on to his arm.
Bresna seems to space out, withdraw, for a moment, pondering, then, abruptly, she nods. Bresna smiles at Terra, then turns on Toryn. So where is this enigmatic hunter of the forest you spoke of?
Celes Rose stares at the stary night sky above her as she strides into the highly guarded town. Knowing that the town is the last spot before she reaches the enterance to hell known as the Worldwound. She strides in elegantly into the "subtle" name of the inn not knowing what to expect, just knowing that her past has prepared her for whatever flagrant debauchery may ensue.
Celes Rose stands at a meek 5 foot 5 inches and weighs about 110 pounds soaking wet. Saying she is a physical speciman is like saying a Kobold is a cute puppy. Her looks are better than most, even though it is supposed to be that way due to her Celestial lineage. Her auburn hair flows down to the small of her back and is tangled and a mess. It reminds her of her ferocious side that will never be tamed.
Upon entering the bar she immediately look to the barmaid and calls for whatever is on tap and a hot meal if possible..
Toryn points out towards the tree line, his companion's silhouette vaguely apparently past the trees and shadow. He raises a hand to his mouth, before whistling sharply.
Hearing the whistle, Seras springs from the woods, rushing towards Toryn. Stopping just short of him, the great wolf pushes her muzzle into his gut, nuzzling against him. She growls softly, her tail wagging with joy.
"Whoa! Calm down, girl. I wasn't gone that long." Toryn pats the over-sized wolf on the head, running a hand through her thick fur. He turns to the two women and smiles. "This is Seras. She won't hurt you, but remember that she's a wild animal, even if she is my best friend." He pats the wolf once more, before giving his companion a sharp look, one that practically screams Be nice.
The gray and white wolf growls softly in response.
Bresna squats on the ground, arms rapped around her knees, almost staring at the wolf.She is smiling, tingling with what seems like excitement. Gods, it would be fun to fight it! Wait, no, can't exactly attack my friends companion; bad rapport. Bresna visibly shakes herself off, then looks up to toryn and says She is beautiful! Bresna'seyes drift back to the wolf, unable to stop staring.
Seras turns to the changeling woman, meeting her gaze. The wolf looks up at Toryn, who nods. His companion pads over to Bresna, regal and proud like few other animals can be. Toryn's best friend stops in front of her, before cautiously sniffing the air. She makes a soft, friendly growling sound deep in her throat, her big blue eyes meeting Bresna's. She barks once, then calmly kneels down in front of the woman.