The sky was a gorgeous blue and the sun a warm yellow as Beranhond, Darvin, and Nym headed off to the city council meeting. The city was bustling about them as the incoming merchant ships hurriedly unloaded parcels and barrels and other goods.
"This weather doesn't at all fit the trepidation of today." Beranhond commented, mostly to break up the silence that hovered around them. Nym nodded staring off north toward Silverymoon. Beranhond smiled, suspecting that he knew what was drawing her attention away this morning. Darvin just grunted, looking down as he marched alongside Beranhond.
"Everyone seems to be in a stupor today." Tigrisclawu commented as he trotted along next to them.
"Yes, that's bound to happen on such momentous days." Beranhond said sighing. "I thought you'd stay with Evelaen on the ship."
"Oh, no, that's going to be boring. He isn't her type at all, so there won't even be any teasing."
"Yeah, that's true. I do enjoy the newfound gravitas he has."
"You mean boring. He used to be so fun when he'd bury his head in an ale barrel."
"Stop it."
The city council had moved out of its now ruined city hall into one of the merchant houses that had been claimed my eminent domain. It was once the largest private dwelling in the city and now housed offices for the council, the protectorate, and the defense coalition. A wrought iron gate barred their way and Beranhond politely negotiated for their entrance. After a moment they were greeted and quickly rushed through the paperwork before being led downstairs to the meeting room that was once a concert hall. The guards guided them to the bottom step before the podium. The council took a moment to finish its paperwork, deliberately ignoring them before finally turning their attention to the front.
"Well, well, well, if it isn't Kilink, back from the dead." The lead elder, Ashaesa, said. "I'm impressed that Darvin decided to show his face in public. Our reports said that he only showed his face at night in the slums and whorehouses."
Beranhond glared upward at them before clearing his throat. "Personal attacks aside, we have come to discuss the agreement we made several years ago regarding the vessel named 'The Lady Narath'. We request a dismissal of the lien and a new license to combat the piracy so prevalent on the seas."
Beranhond paused for a moment, waiting for some kind of reaction.
"That's all? You all scatter to the wind, take up moorage in the harbor, destroy the vessel, and don't even really help the city at all and you just request a new license?"
Showing posts with label Beranhond. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Beranhond. Show all posts
Monday, February 8, 2016
Wednesday, February 3, 2016
Ruffians in the Dark!
"Oh, Darvin are you planning on leaving Baldur's Gate tomorrow?" Came an oily voice from the gangplank. "If so, we'd love if you'd remove all the garbage and refuse from our ship before you go." He said stepping onto the deck of the Lady Narath. The man scowled at the group assembled before him. "Well, what a freakshow..." He said stepping toward the table around at the assembled crew. "Is this the going away party you're hosting, Captain, before you finally remove yourself from our ship?" The man grinned and showed a set of stained and yellowed teeth.
"Hmmm..." Beranhond said standing and glaring down at the man. "Please explain yourself."
The man looked Beranhond up and down. Beranhond easily towered a foot over the man and the silvery armor under his cloak glinted in the lantern light. He changed his tone quickly as his eyes adjusted and noticed that none of the women at the table seemed remotely perturbed by his presence. Like most bullies they are quick to change their tone when confronted.
"Don't get all pissy with me." He said quickly. "I'm here for legitimate reasons on behalf of the Waldorf Syndicate - we have purchased the lien on the Lady Narath and are technically owners of the vessel. I was sent here to remind Darvin that he only has a short amount of time to repay the lien to use before we reclaim the vessel in the name of city of Baldur's Gate." He dropped a scroll on the table quickly before slinking back. Beranhond glared at him once more as he picked up the scroll and opened it up. The man cowered a bit before continuing, "You can argue it all you want, but the syndicate is short tempered with you!" He turned his head and caught a look at Johan and gave a very slight grin, before returning to his soured expression.
"So, if you're leaving town you might as well clear out, or you can visit the syndicate tomorrow with the cash." The man took a look over Nym, Violet, and Evelaen and realized that none of them seemed at all perturbed. Realizing that his usual ability to crudely intimidate people was wasted here he scampered back and across the gangplank into the darkness Beranhond watched the man run away and then handed the document to Evelaen who quickly poured over it.
"Alright, it looks like a standard legal document. It just states the dates of which The Lady Narath was passed into our company, which dates it returned, the bounty, and the syndicate which purchased the contract." She said reading over it quickly.
Beranhond sighed and rubbed his temple. "It looks like we might have to meet with them, or the city, or both, before we go off seeking treasure. Otherwise we might not have a ship at all when we return." He turned to Darvin. "What do you know about this syndicate?"
This will probably be a brief party split time, so use the comment section here to figure out the plan and then let us know who is going where and we'll handle the next part.
Skills to use:
Streetwise or history about the Waldorf Syndicate. Only Darvin, Johan, Violet, and Odin will really have anything to add here as Nym, Talathel, Evelaen, and BH are out of the loop.
Nature, while wonderful, isn't useful inside the city. Streetwise is the way to go.
Diplomacy works within conversations and for gathering info. Otherwise just RP the situation.
Dan, would you mind handling the syndicate?
"Hmmm..." Beranhond said standing and glaring down at the man. "Please explain yourself."
The man looked Beranhond up and down. Beranhond easily towered a foot over the man and the silvery armor under his cloak glinted in the lantern light. He changed his tone quickly as his eyes adjusted and noticed that none of the women at the table seemed remotely perturbed by his presence. Like most bullies they are quick to change their tone when confronted.
"Don't get all pissy with me." He said quickly. "I'm here for legitimate reasons on behalf of the Waldorf Syndicate - we have purchased the lien on the Lady Narath and are technically owners of the vessel. I was sent here to remind Darvin that he only has a short amount of time to repay the lien to use before we reclaim the vessel in the name of city of Baldur's Gate." He dropped a scroll on the table quickly before slinking back. Beranhond glared at him once more as he picked up the scroll and opened it up. The man cowered a bit before continuing, "You can argue it all you want, but the syndicate is short tempered with you!" He turned his head and caught a look at Johan and gave a very slight grin, before returning to his soured expression.
"So, if you're leaving town you might as well clear out, or you can visit the syndicate tomorrow with the cash." The man took a look over Nym, Violet, and Evelaen and realized that none of them seemed at all perturbed. Realizing that his usual ability to crudely intimidate people was wasted here he scampered back and across the gangplank into the darkness Beranhond watched the man run away and then handed the document to Evelaen who quickly poured over it.
"Alright, it looks like a standard legal document. It just states the dates of which The Lady Narath was passed into our company, which dates it returned, the bounty, and the syndicate which purchased the contract." She said reading over it quickly.
Beranhond sighed and rubbed his temple. "It looks like we might have to meet with them, or the city, or both, before we go off seeking treasure. Otherwise we might not have a ship at all when we return." He turned to Darvin. "What do you know about this syndicate?"
This will probably be a brief party split time, so use the comment section here to figure out the plan and then let us know who is going where and we'll handle the next part.
Skills to use:
Streetwise or history about the Waldorf Syndicate. Only Darvin, Johan, Violet, and Odin will really have anything to add here as Nym, Talathel, Evelaen, and BH are out of the loop.
Nature, while wonderful, isn't useful inside the city. Streetwise is the way to go.
Diplomacy works within conversations and for gathering info. Otherwise just RP the situation.
Dan, would you mind handling the syndicate?
Monday, February 1, 2016
Dinner Party - Evelaen's Story
All of stories are occurring at the same time, so feel free to continue to message/comment on the previous posts.
Evelaen took a drink of water and then smiled around the room. "I know we only met each other today, but I feel like I know all about you. Beranhond's stories about you were quiet in depth and detail. After all, we had a long time to talk on the journey back here from Saerloon. She took another sip.
"I was born to a wealthy family in Saerloon. My father served as a legal adviser to the merchant and mining councils. I naturally was heavily involved in the upper crust of the city. It might surprise you, as Saerloon is known for its thievery and dark underbelly, but the upper crust of the city, though not that different in many ways, loved their over the top festivities. At the age of thirteen my family put together my cotillion where I was shown off of to the noble classes and my family prepared for my marriage."
She caught the surprised look in Nym's eyes.
"I was married by fourteen to a wealthy family in the city. My husband is nice enough, but honestly, an arranged marriage to a man who is mostly concerned with making moe money and having more stuff isn't exactly what I was looking for in my life."
She shifted slightly, starting to draw vertical lines on the piece of paper she had kept in front of her for notekeeping.
"Needless to say, my marriage was a bit of a sham, partially because I was keeping a second, much more private life, as a sorceress. I took to haunting the streets at night after my husband fell asleep fighting with the local brigands and crime elements. It was late one of those nights that I met Etheldred, though, at the time he was going by the name 'Iacobes' which really didn't seem to fit."
She bit her lip, drawing the liens a bit nervously.
"Well, to tell that part of the story quickly, he was trying to provide medical aid to a fallen comrade, and I helped him to fight off the local brigands. On the way to my home we got to talking and telling stories... to make a long story short I left my husband at our house a week later and took to ship with him."
"Beranhond still has some nervous moments about the fact that I'm married, but I try to tell him that my husband probably doesn't even notice that I'm gone. Besides, I know that if I wasn't around he'd probably wind up going back to being a farmer."
Evelaen took a drink of water and then smiled around the room. "I know we only met each other today, but I feel like I know all about you. Beranhond's stories about you were quiet in depth and detail. After all, we had a long time to talk on the journey back here from Saerloon. She took another sip.
"I was born to a wealthy family in Saerloon. My father served as a legal adviser to the merchant and mining councils. I naturally was heavily involved in the upper crust of the city. It might surprise you, as Saerloon is known for its thievery and dark underbelly, but the upper crust of the city, though not that different in many ways, loved their over the top festivities. At the age of thirteen my family put together my cotillion where I was shown off of to the noble classes and my family prepared for my marriage."
She caught the surprised look in Nym's eyes.
"I was married by fourteen to a wealthy family in the city. My husband is nice enough, but honestly, an arranged marriage to a man who is mostly concerned with making moe money and having more stuff isn't exactly what I was looking for in my life."
She shifted slightly, starting to draw vertical lines on the piece of paper she had kept in front of her for notekeeping.
"Needless to say, my marriage was a bit of a sham, partially because I was keeping a second, much more private life, as a sorceress. I took to haunting the streets at night after my husband fell asleep fighting with the local brigands and crime elements. It was late one of those nights that I met Etheldred, though, at the time he was going by the name 'Iacobes' which really didn't seem to fit."
She bit her lip, drawing the liens a bit nervously.
"Well, to tell that part of the story quickly, he was trying to provide medical aid to a fallen comrade, and I helped him to fight off the local brigands. On the way to my home we got to talking and telling stories... to make a long story short I left my husband at our house a week later and took to ship with him."
"Beranhond still has some nervous moments about the fact that I'm married, but I try to tell him that my husband probably doesn't even notice that I'm gone. Besides, I know that if I wasn't around he'd probably wind up going back to being a farmer."
Sunday, January 31, 2016
Dinner Party - Violet's Story
As Beranhond finished his story, Violet began to fidget a lot, obviously not sure exactly how to tell her story. Odin patted her knee and stood up, nearly banging his head on a beam before sitting back down again and beginning to talk.
"I was in my armorsmithing apprenticeship on Llewellyn when the druid temple was destroyed. In fact, I was working the forge that day when Master Aerilon, my mentor, started hearing the destruction and rushed in to tell us that we needed to flee. I quickly and efficiently banked the fires and put all of my tools in order before grabbing the small bundle of things that was my belongings. I expected that whatever was happening would soon be over, and I hoped to return and help rebuild as soon as possible."
He gave a chagrined smile to the group, "Of course, my decision to spend time packing up meant that I was one of the last to leave the village. As I walked through the door and started toward the water, I heard cries of anguish coming from the direction of the druids' meeting hall, and saw what looked like a small bundle of dark purple cloth until it moved. It was Violet, dragging herself across the ground out of the tunnel. One of her legs was not working correctly, and was causing her extreme amounts of pain."
He put his large hand back on Violet's knee, "I picked her up as gently as I could and carried her out of the town and into the jungle to a small cabin where she could recuperate and heal from her wounds."
Violet added in a haunted voice, "That was the most frightening and painful day of my life. My leg was badly infected, and I was forced to use my magic to remove my leg and cauterize the wound so that the infection wouldn't spread and kill me." She shuddered and withdrew into herself.
After another squeeze of her knee in support, Odin continued, "Once she was stabilized, I crept back back out to check on the village, but didn't get far before I saw the smoke billowing above the jungle canopy. Realizing there was nothing I could do for Llewellyn, I foraged for foodstuffs and firewood, and took care of Violet for a week before she was able to travel. I had studied medicine in Evermeet several years, and I was able to put some of that training to good use."
"We traveled slowly overland to Caer Calidyrr, where we were able to find passage back to Baldur's Gate. I was able to set up this shop and start anew with my tools and inventory after losing everything at Llewellyn. And I have been here ever since," Odin finished.
He looked at Violet questioningly, "Violet, I'm sure your friends would be interested in your story, as well."
Violet responded to his prodding by laying her much smaller hand over his hand and giving it a small squeeze. She gathered her courage, and went on from where he left off, "With Odin's help, I was able to get an first artificial leg made and begin my rehabilitation. Of course, after my failure to stop the high priest of the Dark God, word began to spread that I'd lost my touch as an assassin, and work began to dry up. It didn't help that I walked with the help of a crutch and had to rely heavily on magic to see the job done, where before I'd been able to count on a quick stab if everything else fell through."
Violet sighed, "I took a series of small jobs, and though I was successful in them, it was obvious that I would not be able to return to my former renown. I began looking for alternative sources of income. I eventually settled on treasure hunting, as it uses a large cross section of the skills needed in my former profession, and have been happily building my new life here with Odin ever since."
Violet continued, "I kept an eye on the events here as I could, and sent what information I found to Beranhond in an attempt to give the party a chance to reconvene, but mostly, I've just tried to get the edge back in my skills and be prepared for whatever comes."
"I was in my armorsmithing apprenticeship on Llewellyn when the druid temple was destroyed. In fact, I was working the forge that day when Master Aerilon, my mentor, started hearing the destruction and rushed in to tell us that we needed to flee. I quickly and efficiently banked the fires and put all of my tools in order before grabbing the small bundle of things that was my belongings. I expected that whatever was happening would soon be over, and I hoped to return and help rebuild as soon as possible."
He gave a chagrined smile to the group, "Of course, my decision to spend time packing up meant that I was one of the last to leave the village. As I walked through the door and started toward the water, I heard cries of anguish coming from the direction of the druids' meeting hall, and saw what looked like a small bundle of dark purple cloth until it moved. It was Violet, dragging herself across the ground out of the tunnel. One of her legs was not working correctly, and was causing her extreme amounts of pain."
He put his large hand back on Violet's knee, "I picked her up as gently as I could and carried her out of the town and into the jungle to a small cabin where she could recuperate and heal from her wounds."
Violet added in a haunted voice, "That was the most frightening and painful day of my life. My leg was badly infected, and I was forced to use my magic to remove my leg and cauterize the wound so that the infection wouldn't spread and kill me." She shuddered and withdrew into herself.
After another squeeze of her knee in support, Odin continued, "Once she was stabilized, I crept back back out to check on the village, but didn't get far before I saw the smoke billowing above the jungle canopy. Realizing there was nothing I could do for Llewellyn, I foraged for foodstuffs and firewood, and took care of Violet for a week before she was able to travel. I had studied medicine in Evermeet several years, and I was able to put some of that training to good use."
"We traveled slowly overland to Caer Calidyrr, where we were able to find passage back to Baldur's Gate. I was able to set up this shop and start anew with my tools and inventory after losing everything at Llewellyn. And I have been here ever since," Odin finished.
He looked at Violet questioningly, "Violet, I'm sure your friends would be interested in your story, as well."
Violet responded to his prodding by laying her much smaller hand over his hand and giving it a small squeeze. She gathered her courage, and went on from where he left off, "With Odin's help, I was able to get an first artificial leg made and begin my rehabilitation. Of course, after my failure to stop the high priest of the Dark God, word began to spread that I'd lost my touch as an assassin, and work began to dry up. It didn't help that I walked with the help of a crutch and had to rely heavily on magic to see the job done, where before I'd been able to count on a quick stab if everything else fell through."
Violet sighed, "I took a series of small jobs, and though I was successful in them, it was obvious that I would not be able to return to my former renown. I began looking for alternative sources of income. I eventually settled on treasure hunting, as it uses a large cross section of the skills needed in my former profession, and have been happily building my new life here with Odin ever since."
Violet continued, "I kept an eye on the events here as I could, and sent what information I found to Beranhond in an attempt to give the party a chance to reconvene, but mostly, I've just tried to get the edge back in my skills and be prepared for whatever comes."
Friday, January 29, 2016
Dinner Party - Beranhond's Story
Beranhond was surprised at the variety of journey's that his companions had taken. Darvin's story hadn't surprised him too much as, sadly, much of the evidence of his last few years remained scattered around The Lady Narath.
Talathel's journey of renewal was uplifting and reminded him of a fervor that had wandered away along with the voices of the Gods.
Nym's story of finding peace, and perhaps a bit of reprieve from the darkness that had followed her, gave him a bit of hope as well. Yet, all too soon he felt it was time for his turn to share his story.
"Well." He said clearing his throat."I can fill in a few gaps that the rest of you don't remember..."
Beranhond stepped away from the attack, the swing of the sword missing him, and he slipped aesahaettr deftly between the guard's ribs.
"Darvin, Johan, we need to advance." He yelled to the two who were fighting rear guard. A sudden blurry shape charged forward from where Johan had once stood.
"What the..." He said, blocking another strike with his shield. Darvin stepped forward and attacked with his swords, disarming one of the guards.
"Well done Darvin!" Beranhond said encouragingly. "We just might win this yet and see what is hidden..."
Beranhond's words were cut off as a large black shape moved down the stairs started chanting.
"Retreat, get out of here!" Beranhond yelled, shoving another guard aside with his shield and then starting to move back toward the entrance.
Before he could move too far toward the exist the chanting stopped and the room filled with darkness and a sharp shock of pain ran through Beranhond's body. He dropped the ground screaming and saw that the other two were also collapsing to the ground in pain.
Beranhond raised up his symbol of Narath, hoping to shield the attack, or at least to minimize some of the pain.
Eth... the darkness is making it's move. Came Narath's voice into his head. He pushed up the symbol again the waves of pain emanating from the darkness. The symbol cracked and broke, and a flash of light exploded out from the light.
Eth, I'm buying you a few moments of escape by distracting the darkness. Return to Baldur's Gate and get the Paladins out of the region... all those relying on divine powers are likely to fall under the sway of the rising darkness. A shimmering wall of light emerged from the broken holy symbol, and Beranhond quickly ran over grabbing Darvin and Johan and dragging them to safety.
The ride back unlike any experience that he had experienced. Darvin and Johan rode as in shock, before Johan suddenly peeled off and rode off in silent, unresponsive to Beranhond's calls.
Beranhond returned Darvin to the Lady Narath, leaving him in the same unresponsive stupor that had overtaken him since Candlekeep.
"At that point, I knew that I needed to find Ceilith. Yet, I was completely unprepared for what was to have occurred. I made my way to the front and found the Tormish Paladins over confidently involved in an assault on the forces of darkness. I assisted them as much as I could, but..." Beranhond swallowed. "My divine powers had failed me and I could cast no spells, call on no abilities, and serve no divine healing. The paladins too suffered similarly. In fact, as the battle went on more and more of the forces turned sides, becoming zombie's and ghosts and ghouls, until Ceilith and I stood at the rearguard, a few paladin's who had once had training as soldiers and warriors the only remnant of the expeditionary force." Beranhond took a heavy sip of the wine. "I thought we might have a chance to escape, but a massive dark shape burst through the line and slammed Ceilith to the ground." He looked down at the oaken table. "I managed to fight off the shape for a moment and to hoist Ceilith up onto a horse. We escaped, along with a few of the paladins, to south of the battlefield. When we stopped and I checked Ceilith's wounds I found that it was beyond my non-magical aid.
"It's alright Eth.." She said coughing up blood. "I'm going to go and join the fight in heaven at Torm's sides."Her hands going up to his face. "I adored every moment I had with you even if I could never understand why you fought against contentment with every fiber of your being.
Beranhond couldn't hold back his smile. "Oh stop... I wasn't that bad." He say ruefully.
"Yes you were." She said before coughing again. "But, when I die, make sure I'm dead... I don't want to come back as one of them. I know what I'm asking you might be morbid, but please, take me back to Tantras and bury me in my family's plot.
Beranhond eyes shot open. "I can't..."
"Please..." She said coughing. "Even if it's just my head. I don't want to come back as one of them." She looked up into his eyes one final time. "Fight the good fight Ethelred. I'll give your parents your best..." she said before sliding into death.
"After her death, I followed her wishes, building a pyre and burning her ashes before leaving Baldur's Gate and returning to Tantras and her ancestral land. I held a small funeral with her family and then attempted to give my report to the Tormish command." He fiddled with his fork, trying not to dwell on the memories. "Yet, although they politely listened to my report on the destruction of the druids, the vunerabilities of divine energy, and the rise of the darkness they seemed not interested. Apparently since my previous visit a new faction had arisen that decided to refocus on the war with Thay. The incidents out west were deemed unimportant and I was politely thanked but summarily dismissed."
"I returned to my family's land, tilling the land for a season as I reflected on the new reality of the world. Although I prayed and sought conversation with Narath she was absent. Word soon flooded into the Citadel that Gods and Goddesses across the world were seemingly absent from the world. It was at that moment that I realized that I was once again needed out west. My journey back was smooth..."
"Really, smooth?" Evelaen interjected. "That's how you are describing us meeting?" She rolled her eyes. "Beranhond can tell an epic story quite well, but I fear he will mangle the story of our meeting with a lot of unnecessary 'thee's and 'thou's." She laughed heartely. "I don't want it sounding like something that came out of a chivalrous court. So, let them ask their questions and then I'll finish up the story of our journey."
Talathel's journey of renewal was uplifting and reminded him of a fervor that had wandered away along with the voices of the Gods.
Nym's story of finding peace, and perhaps a bit of reprieve from the darkness that had followed her, gave him a bit of hope as well. Yet, all too soon he felt it was time for his turn to share his story.
"Well." He said clearing his throat."I can fill in a few gaps that the rest of you don't remember..."
Beranhond stepped away from the attack, the swing of the sword missing him, and he slipped aesahaettr deftly between the guard's ribs.
"Darvin, Johan, we need to advance." He yelled to the two who were fighting rear guard. A sudden blurry shape charged forward from where Johan had once stood.
"What the..." He said, blocking another strike with his shield. Darvin stepped forward and attacked with his swords, disarming one of the guards.
"Well done Darvin!" Beranhond said encouragingly. "We just might win this yet and see what is hidden..."
Beranhond's words were cut off as a large black shape moved down the stairs started chanting.
"Retreat, get out of here!" Beranhond yelled, shoving another guard aside with his shield and then starting to move back toward the entrance.
Before he could move too far toward the exist the chanting stopped and the room filled with darkness and a sharp shock of pain ran through Beranhond's body. He dropped the ground screaming and saw that the other two were also collapsing to the ground in pain.
Beranhond raised up his symbol of Narath, hoping to shield the attack, or at least to minimize some of the pain.
Eth... the darkness is making it's move. Came Narath's voice into his head. He pushed up the symbol again the waves of pain emanating from the darkness. The symbol cracked and broke, and a flash of light exploded out from the light.
Eth, I'm buying you a few moments of escape by distracting the darkness. Return to Baldur's Gate and get the Paladins out of the region... all those relying on divine powers are likely to fall under the sway of the rising darkness. A shimmering wall of light emerged from the broken holy symbol, and Beranhond quickly ran over grabbing Darvin and Johan and dragging them to safety.
The ride back unlike any experience that he had experienced. Darvin and Johan rode as in shock, before Johan suddenly peeled off and rode off in silent, unresponsive to Beranhond's calls.
Beranhond returned Darvin to the Lady Narath, leaving him in the same unresponsive stupor that had overtaken him since Candlekeep.
"At that point, I knew that I needed to find Ceilith. Yet, I was completely unprepared for what was to have occurred. I made my way to the front and found the Tormish Paladins over confidently involved in an assault on the forces of darkness. I assisted them as much as I could, but..." Beranhond swallowed. "My divine powers had failed me and I could cast no spells, call on no abilities, and serve no divine healing. The paladins too suffered similarly. In fact, as the battle went on more and more of the forces turned sides, becoming zombie's and ghosts and ghouls, until Ceilith and I stood at the rearguard, a few paladin's who had once had training as soldiers and warriors the only remnant of the expeditionary force." Beranhond took a heavy sip of the wine. "I thought we might have a chance to escape, but a massive dark shape burst through the line and slammed Ceilith to the ground." He looked down at the oaken table. "I managed to fight off the shape for a moment and to hoist Ceilith up onto a horse. We escaped, along with a few of the paladins, to south of the battlefield. When we stopped and I checked Ceilith's wounds I found that it was beyond my non-magical aid.
"It's alright Eth.." She said coughing up blood. "I'm going to go and join the fight in heaven at Torm's sides."Her hands going up to his face. "I adored every moment I had with you even if I could never understand why you fought against contentment with every fiber of your being.
Beranhond couldn't hold back his smile. "Oh stop... I wasn't that bad." He say ruefully.
"Yes you were." She said before coughing again. "But, when I die, make sure I'm dead... I don't want to come back as one of them. I know what I'm asking you might be morbid, but please, take me back to Tantras and bury me in my family's plot.
Beranhond eyes shot open. "I can't..."
"Please..." She said coughing. "Even if it's just my head. I don't want to come back as one of them." She looked up into his eyes one final time. "Fight the good fight Ethelred. I'll give your parents your best..." she said before sliding into death.
"After her death, I followed her wishes, building a pyre and burning her ashes before leaving Baldur's Gate and returning to Tantras and her ancestral land. I held a small funeral with her family and then attempted to give my report to the Tormish command." He fiddled with his fork, trying not to dwell on the memories. "Yet, although they politely listened to my report on the destruction of the druids, the vunerabilities of divine energy, and the rise of the darkness they seemed not interested. Apparently since my previous visit a new faction had arisen that decided to refocus on the war with Thay. The incidents out west were deemed unimportant and I was politely thanked but summarily dismissed."
"I returned to my family's land, tilling the land for a season as I reflected on the new reality of the world. Although I prayed and sought conversation with Narath she was absent. Word soon flooded into the Citadel that Gods and Goddesses across the world were seemingly absent from the world. It was at that moment that I realized that I was once again needed out west. My journey back was smooth..."
"Really, smooth?" Evelaen interjected. "That's how you are describing us meeting?" She rolled her eyes. "Beranhond can tell an epic story quite well, but I fear he will mangle the story of our meeting with a lot of unnecessary 'thee's and 'thou's." She laughed heartely. "I don't want it sounding like something that came out of a chivalrous court. So, let them ask their questions and then I'll finish up the story of our journey."
Dinner Party - Talathel's Story
Talathel cleared his throat and began. "There is not much to tell, for I don't believe I have been adventuring. When our group disbanded those years ago, I did not know what to do. So, I set off in search of Kalael. Of course, I had no leads, no ideas. So, I wandered. I would stop at monasteries of the Old Order, but many have been slow on getting information since Kalael has gone missing. In some places, I fear the Old Order may become absent all together.
"I found myself without a purpose, and so I sought one. I traveled throughout Faerun, doing the occasional good deed. I tried to join with other companies, but apparently elven monks are not in high demand. Eventually, it was probably around the Bloodstone Pass that I realized that I was a purpose in and of myself. My purpose was to connect to Faerun. And so, I continued to wander. I lived off the land. In Mulptan, I sold what I could. I found my pleasure not in a wine cup, not in riches, not even in the helping of others. I found pleasure in simply being.
"This is not to say that I neglected my fellow beings. I would stop in villages and help the needy. In Skuld, I helped in the search for a missing child, for instance. But, I did not want to stay in one place long. Doing so would seem to deny me the pleasure of existing in this realm. There is much to experience.
"I continued along until I reached the coast. To be honest, I was not sure what to do. I could continue along the same path as before. I could try and find passage to the Moonshae Isles. I may have been leaning that way. I had seen Faerun, and maybe could return to my home and live out my days content. But then, I spied The Lady Narath. I am so grateful to see all of you again. And grateful for this stew! Hot meals have been few and far between for me. But, like Nym, I have found myself content, even if not comfortable.
"I found myself without a purpose, and so I sought one. I traveled throughout Faerun, doing the occasional good deed. I tried to join with other companies, but apparently elven monks are not in high demand. Eventually, it was probably around the Bloodstone Pass that I realized that I was a purpose in and of myself. My purpose was to connect to Faerun. And so, I continued to wander. I lived off the land. In Mulptan, I sold what I could. I found my pleasure not in a wine cup, not in riches, not even in the helping of others. I found pleasure in simply being.
"This is not to say that I neglected my fellow beings. I would stop in villages and help the needy. In Skuld, I helped in the search for a missing child, for instance. But, I did not want to stay in one place long. Doing so would seem to deny me the pleasure of existing in this realm. There is much to experience.
"I continued along until I reached the coast. To be honest, I was not sure what to do. I could continue along the same path as before. I could try and find passage to the Moonshae Isles. I may have been leaning that way. I had seen Faerun, and maybe could return to my home and live out my days content. But then, I spied The Lady Narath. I am so grateful to see all of you again. And grateful for this stew! Hot meals have been few and far between for me. But, like Nym, I have found myself content, even if not comfortable.
Thursday, January 28, 2016
Dinner Party - Johan's Story
Johan sips again at the wineglass, the tasteless fluid seeming like colored water rather than priceless Elven spirits. He leans back, rolling his shoulders in a broad shrug. "Well, after we parted, I traveled south, to Beregost. Slunk around for a bit, until I had a bit of a run-in with the local watchmen after a stretch of being quite...parched. Their leader, Captain Kerp, took a shine to my fighting spirit, and offered me the job. The pay was shit, and the position was as plain and boring as goblin snot, but it meant I spent quite a bit less on sun balm, and, well..."
He chuckled, gesturing with the glass without taking a drink. "I never had a problem with energetic and boisterous prisoners once they'd spent a night in the cells under my watch, and good old Kerp either didn't notice, or didn't care."
Johan fished into a pocket of his coat, pulling out a rough map of the Sword Coast. On it were dozens of scratched circles in ink, dotting all over the coastal waters and coastline itself. "I've been keeping my ear out, as rogue and rowdy undead tend to mean suddenly everyone's wearing as much silver jewelry as they can steal or buy, and buying holy water phials like they're proper healing potions." He shook his head, throwing the map onto the table with mild disgust. "I can't make rhyme nor reason to the attacks; From what I've heard, the pirates have neither a base nor a target that can be made out from their attacks alone."
He leaned back, his grin showing the glint of slightly-too-long teeth, and reaching under his coat, withdrew a small hip flask. Johan took a single bracing swig, before recorking it and stowing it away again.
He chuckled, gesturing with the glass without taking a drink. "I never had a problem with energetic and boisterous prisoners once they'd spent a night in the cells under my watch, and good old Kerp either didn't notice, or didn't care."
Johan fished into a pocket of his coat, pulling out a rough map of the Sword Coast. On it were dozens of scratched circles in ink, dotting all over the coastal waters and coastline itself. "I've been keeping my ear out, as rogue and rowdy undead tend to mean suddenly everyone's wearing as much silver jewelry as they can steal or buy, and buying holy water phials like they're proper healing potions." He shook his head, throwing the map onto the table with mild disgust. "I can't make rhyme nor reason to the attacks; From what I've heard, the pirates have neither a base nor a target that can be made out from their attacks alone."
He leaned back, his grin showing the glint of slightly-too-long teeth, and reaching under his coat, withdrew a small hip flask. Johan took a single bracing swig, before recorking it and stowing it away again.
Tuesday, January 26, 2016
Dinner Party! (On the Lady Narath)
Darvin's suggestion that they retire to the Lady Narath was met with some amount of support and/or enthusiasm from Nym and Johan, (who had not seen the ship recently) and some reticence from Beranhond, Talathel, Evelaen, Violet, and Odin (who knew that the ship was somewhat in disrepair). Eventually, Darvin's pulling and prodding was able to get everyone to the ship, and as they ate the native food of Thindol, which was a fish stew with carrots and a thick broth served with crackers and bread.
Violet and Odin arrived shortly after the rest of the group, having spent several minutes gathering up a bundle of maps and other materials to help show what they were after. Once they were all ensconced below decks and eating, Violet began by laying out a very old wanted poster.
"You may remember stories of the Pirate Queen Jennah the Bold?" Violet looked around the room, seeing some nods. "Well, as you may remember, she's been dead for about 70 years, and all of her various treasures have been found, so it's not her treasure we're seeking."
Violet continued, as if this were all very necessary information, "She had a long list of associates that supported her, hence her title Pirate Queen, as you all know. I have learned that one of Queen Jennah's wealthiest supporters, known as the Earl of Lush, was sold out by one of her crew mates, named Eelskin Jack. Eelskin Jack thought he was extremely clever to hide out in the cliffsides near Secomber, but was found and killed for his treachery. Of course, as soon as he was sold out, the Earl of Lush moved his vast fortunes elsewhere, so Eelskin Jack was also a dead end. It's too bad, too, because I was really excited to head up to Secomber and dig around in his old hidey hole before I found that out."
Violet shook her head and took a bite of soup before continuing, "No, the Earl of Lush was able to die a wealthy man and pass along his considerable fortune to his illegitimate son, Conner. Conner had been raised to be extremely careful with money, but never knew how to handle it, so soon after he was gifted the money he disappeared with it. Rumor has it that he fled with the treasure to a remote island far to the west, but before he escaped, he said goodbye for the last time to his childhood sweetheart, Amelie, who lived in Daggerford."
Another gulp of soup went down the hatch before Violet continued, "Of course, as soon as he sailed away, a group of brigands tortured and accidentally killed Amelie, trying to get the location that Conner had sailed to. It couldn't have been easy tracking this stupid treasure down, could it?"
At this point, Violet tore half of her slice of bread off and doused it thoroughly in stew before gesturing very seriously at the rest of the crew, "I have learned that before he left, Conner gave Amelie a keepsake to remember him by. If we can get that keepsake, I have a way to use it as a locating beacon and it will lead us to Conner, and therefore to the treasure."
Violet stood and swallowed the hunk of bread in one bite, "So all we have to do is go up to Daggerford and dig up a poor girl that's been dead for 30 years and hope that the small carved turtle carved from shell that Conner gave her is buried with her or at least nearby."
Violet and Odin arrived shortly after the rest of the group, having spent several minutes gathering up a bundle of maps and other materials to help show what they were after. Once they were all ensconced below decks and eating, Violet began by laying out a very old wanted poster.
"You may remember stories of the Pirate Queen Jennah the Bold?" Violet looked around the room, seeing some nods. "Well, as you may remember, she's been dead for about 70 years, and all of her various treasures have been found, so it's not her treasure we're seeking."
Violet continued, as if this were all very necessary information, "She had a long list of associates that supported her, hence her title Pirate Queen, as you all know. I have learned that one of Queen Jennah's wealthiest supporters, known as the Earl of Lush, was sold out by one of her crew mates, named Eelskin Jack. Eelskin Jack thought he was extremely clever to hide out in the cliffsides near Secomber, but was found and killed for his treachery. Of course, as soon as he was sold out, the Earl of Lush moved his vast fortunes elsewhere, so Eelskin Jack was also a dead end. It's too bad, too, because I was really excited to head up to Secomber and dig around in his old hidey hole before I found that out."
Violet shook her head and took a bite of soup before continuing, "No, the Earl of Lush was able to die a wealthy man and pass along his considerable fortune to his illegitimate son, Conner. Conner had been raised to be extremely careful with money, but never knew how to handle it, so soon after he was gifted the money he disappeared with it. Rumor has it that he fled with the treasure to a remote island far to the west, but before he escaped, he said goodbye for the last time to his childhood sweetheart, Amelie, who lived in Daggerford."
Another gulp of soup went down the hatch before Violet continued, "Of course, as soon as he sailed away, a group of brigands tortured and accidentally killed Amelie, trying to get the location that Conner had sailed to. It couldn't have been easy tracking this stupid treasure down, could it?"
At this point, Violet tore half of her slice of bread off and doused it thoroughly in stew before gesturing very seriously at the rest of the crew, "I have learned that before he left, Conner gave Amelie a keepsake to remember him by. If we can get that keepsake, I have a way to use it as a locating beacon and it will lead us to Conner, and therefore to the treasure."
Violet stood and swallowed the hunk of bread in one bite, "So all we have to do is go up to Daggerford and dig up a poor girl that's been dead for 30 years and hope that the small carved turtle carved from shell that Conner gave her is buried with her or at least nearby."
Friday, January 22, 2016
Odin's Fine Provisions and Sporting Goods
You are a jerk for naming it Odin's Fine Provisions and Sporting Goods, but I'll roll with it. ;)
Beranhond was the first in the door, and he was immediately taken aback by the amount of items that packed the room. he could barely get past the door before having to step to the right to get around what looked to be a large orange tent. Beyond that, he spotted a large variety of ropes and cords, and beyond that an assortment of balls of all shapes, sizes, and colors. He saw several that he had no idea what they were for. He kept on looking around the room and saw an array of sticks in different lengths and thicknesses, and beyond that...
His inspection of the room was interrupted when his gaze alit upon a very large man with grayish skin and black hair. He was sitting at a small table about 5 feet away wearing a pair of goggles and squinting at a very small woven ball that he appeared to be stitching. The sight was rather comical, as his long arms and broad shoulders seemed to wrap around his table to bring the small object up to about 6 inches from his face. He was wearing a rather nondescript craftsman's tunic and trousers except that the crest from the sign outside was proudly embroidered on the left breast. He was concentrating very closely on the ball, and his tongue was sticking out as he moved his gargantuan hands in a very delicate stitch.
As Beranhond eyed the man, the others entered the room. The man sewed two more stitches, exhaled heavily, retrieved his tongue, and set the ball down. He wiped his brow on his long sleeve, and brought the goggles up to rest on his forehead. It was obvious from the rings around his eyes he'd been working on the stitching for some time.
Standing up to his full height, he made eye contact with Beranhond and bowed, somewhat too formally, "Hello my fine lady and gentlemen. What can I help you with today? Are you interested in a bit of sport? Perhaps you would like to requisition a custom May Pole? Or are you in of some other bit of provisions? Whatever you're looking for, I'm sure you've come to the right place."
Beranhond was the first in the door, and he was immediately taken aback by the amount of items that packed the room. he could barely get past the door before having to step to the right to get around what looked to be a large orange tent. Beyond that, he spotted a large variety of ropes and cords, and beyond that an assortment of balls of all shapes, sizes, and colors. He saw several that he had no idea what they were for. He kept on looking around the room and saw an array of sticks in different lengths and thicknesses, and beyond that...
His inspection of the room was interrupted when his gaze alit upon a very large man with grayish skin and black hair. He was sitting at a small table about 5 feet away wearing a pair of goggles and squinting at a very small woven ball that he appeared to be stitching. The sight was rather comical, as his long arms and broad shoulders seemed to wrap around his table to bring the small object up to about 6 inches from his face. He was wearing a rather nondescript craftsman's tunic and trousers except that the crest from the sign outside was proudly embroidered on the left breast. He was concentrating very closely on the ball, and his tongue was sticking out as he moved his gargantuan hands in a very delicate stitch.
As Beranhond eyed the man, the others entered the room. The man sewed two more stitches, exhaled heavily, retrieved his tongue, and set the ball down. He wiped his brow on his long sleeve, and brought the goggles up to rest on his forehead. It was obvious from the rings around his eyes he'd been working on the stitching for some time.
Standing up to his full height, he made eye contact with Beranhond and bowed, somewhat too formally, "Hello my fine lady and gentlemen. What can I help you with today? Are you interested in a bit of sport? Perhaps you would like to requisition a custom May Pole? Or are you in of some other bit of provisions? Whatever you're looking for, I'm sure you've come to the right place."
Through the city
Talathel entered the city of Baldur's Gate. After years away, he had returned. Baldur's Gate was where his adventuring had began. As he walked through the streets, he remembered the battle against the Rat Queen beneath the streets. Beyond that had been a blur, had been an alcoholic vision of various battles, journeys, inns, and friends.
He found himself, almost without thinking, at the door of Milway's. It was here that he had met Lailsan. He had not heard from her since she had gone home to the Moonshae Isles. Of course, he had been travelling. No one could get a hold of him. He wondered if she had tried. He hadn't.
He debated going in, but for what? Lailsan would not be there and he had no money. And besides, when was the last time that he had drunk rum or anything else? He hadn't missed it that much.
He waited outside Milways, waiting for some sign of where he should go next. But, the only place that stood out to him was the docks. Not finding much in terms of signs, he headed that way.
The Lady Narath had aged a bit, he thought, but was still in good shape. Darvin had treated it well. Did he have a crew of any type? Talathel stopped at the gang plank. He could see no one on the deck. He cleared his throat and shouted at the ship.
"Captain Darvin! An old friend requests an audience with you!"
He found himself, almost without thinking, at the door of Milway's. It was here that he had met Lailsan. He had not heard from her since she had gone home to the Moonshae Isles. Of course, he had been travelling. No one could get a hold of him. He wondered if she had tried. He hadn't.
He debated going in, but for what? Lailsan would not be there and he had no money. And besides, when was the last time that he had drunk rum or anything else? He hadn't missed it that much.
He waited outside Milways, waiting for some sign of where he should go next. But, the only place that stood out to him was the docks. Not finding much in terms of signs, he headed that way.
The Lady Narath had aged a bit, he thought, but was still in good shape. Darvin had treated it well. Did he have a crew of any type? Talathel stopped at the gang plank. He could see no one on the deck. He cleared his throat and shouted at the ship.
"Captain Darvin! An old friend requests an audience with you!"
Tuesday, January 19, 2016
A Reunion Aboard the Lady Narath, Part 1, BH style
Bernahond glared at Tigrisclawu, not entirely annoyed, but a little perturbed at the feline's behavior. Tigris had always been a bit moody, but he had started showing quite the preference toward Evelaen. He bent down and took the bird into his hand and was shocked when it started to squeak, "Visit Oden's for all of your adventuring needs!"
"Well, I suspect that's Violet's calling card."
Evelaen looked somewhat bemused at Beranhond. "It sounds more like an annoying viral advertisement."
"No, this is classic Violet. It's weird magic, vague, off the wall, and lacking details."
"Why are we searching out this Violet character again? Was she an ex-lover or something?" Beranhond leaned down to the bird and whispered to it in the birds native language to find the shop and return to be free of the task laid upon it.
Beranhond sputtered at the suggestion "No, definitely not."
She grinned, "it's alright if she was... I'm not that jealous. At least, not yet."
Beranhond looked over her and rolled his eyes slightly. Yet, before he had a chance to respond to her teasing he heard the familiar call from a ship in the harbor.
"Beranhond! Up here! The Lady Narath has missed you!" Came the familiar voice of a half elf. Beranhond looked up at the familiar, though worn and damaged, vessel. He didn't look toward the front of the ship, worried about the state of the Narath statue, and instead looked to find the worn features of Darvin.
"Hail Darvin! Thy ship has apparently missed me for longer than I care to consider. Hast thou not found a harbor or safe passage from which thou couldst do thine repairs? I beseech thee to allow me to board promptly so that I can take inventory of the travesty that thou has wrought!" Beranhond tried to hold back a grin at the flowery speech. He suspected that Darvin thought of him as a bit pompous and decided that this was a perfect moment in which to test the man's resolve. Such flowery speech was still common in parts of the east and it was entirely possible that Berandhond's words had become overtly flowery.
"You're ridiculous, adorable, but ridiculous." Evelaen said from behind him.
"Ignore him. He's just trying to annoy you."
"Eva!" Beranhond said in feigned shock. But he burst into a grin.
"Hail Darvin, I'm glad I have found you without a journey into the dreamrealm, or one involving ghosts, goblins, and ghouls, do I have your permission to board?
"Well, I suspect that's Violet's calling card."
Evelaen looked somewhat bemused at Beranhond. "It sounds more like an annoying viral advertisement."
"No, this is classic Violet. It's weird magic, vague, off the wall, and lacking details."
"Why are we searching out this Violet character again? Was she an ex-lover or something?" Beranhond leaned down to the bird and whispered to it in the birds native language to find the shop and return to be free of the task laid upon it.
Beranhond sputtered at the suggestion "No, definitely not."
She grinned, "it's alright if she was... I'm not that jealous. At least, not yet."
Beranhond looked over her and rolled his eyes slightly. Yet, before he had a chance to respond to her teasing he heard the familiar call from a ship in the harbor.
"Beranhond! Up here! The Lady Narath has missed you!" Came the familiar voice of a half elf. Beranhond looked up at the familiar, though worn and damaged, vessel. He didn't look toward the front of the ship, worried about the state of the Narath statue, and instead looked to find the worn features of Darvin.
"Hail Darvin! Thy ship has apparently missed me for longer than I care to consider. Hast thou not found a harbor or safe passage from which thou couldst do thine repairs? I beseech thee to allow me to board promptly so that I can take inventory of the travesty that thou has wrought!" Beranhond tried to hold back a grin at the flowery speech. He suspected that Darvin thought of him as a bit pompous and decided that this was a perfect moment in which to test the man's resolve. Such flowery speech was still common in parts of the east and it was entirely possible that Berandhond's words had become overtly flowery.
"You're ridiculous, adorable, but ridiculous." Evelaen said from behind him.
"Ignore him. He's just trying to annoy you."
"Eva!" Beranhond said in feigned shock. But he burst into a grin.
"Hail Darvin, I'm glad I have found you without a journey into the dreamrealm, or one involving ghosts, goblins, and ghouls, do I have your permission to board?
A Reunion Aboard the Lady Narath, Part 1
Darvin watched the Wood Elf, whose name he couldn't remember, walk down the gang plank and disappear into the crowds on the wharf. He always felt pangs of guilt and longing when the elf maidens would leave in the morning. Deep down he always knew that he had become a shadow of his former self, but he could always rationalize his way out of it. He had failed, he didn't matter anymore. Although, that last thought had been proven wrong when he had received notice that the leading Guild of the city had put a lien on the Lady Narath. In his depression he had neglected to pay off the debts the City Council had bestowed upon the group when the ship was put under his care.
He was lost in thought as he stared out over the crowd. A familiar looking cat caught his eye.
"No...it can't be." Darvin thought to himself. He needed to get a closer look.
"Guybrush, please bring me the spyglass," He requested to the monkey.
"Another pretty lady in the crowd this morning, sir?" Asked the cheeky monkey as he handed Darvin the spyglass.
Darvin ignored the comment and used the instrument to look over the crowd. Upon closer inspection, Darvin was sure that he had just spotted Tigrisclawu, who was having a terrible time trying to catch a swallow. Although, it was maybe the most athletic swallow that Darvin had ever laid eyes on. Eventually, the cat caught the bird and continued down the wharf where he dropped the creature at the feet of a very attractive woman. Who was standing next to a very large Paladin.
"Well, I'll be dipped in shit and rolled in breadcrumbs!" said Darvin in surprise.
"One of Greg's recipe's, sir?" asked Guybrush.
"No, you cheeky bastard. Beranhond and Tigrisclawu are down there. Sure as the sun rises they are." Darvin explained. He quickly climbed a third of the way up the rigging of the main mast and started to wave at Beranhond and his companions.
"Beranhond! Up here! The Lady Narath has missed you!"
He was lost in thought as he stared out over the crowd. A familiar looking cat caught his eye.
"No...it can't be." Darvin thought to himself. He needed to get a closer look.
"Guybrush, please bring me the spyglass," He requested to the monkey.
"Another pretty lady in the crowd this morning, sir?" Asked the cheeky monkey as he handed Darvin the spyglass.
Darvin ignored the comment and used the instrument to look over the crowd. Upon closer inspection, Darvin was sure that he had just spotted Tigrisclawu, who was having a terrible time trying to catch a swallow. Although, it was maybe the most athletic swallow that Darvin had ever laid eyes on. Eventually, the cat caught the bird and continued down the wharf where he dropped the creature at the feet of a very attractive woman. Who was standing next to a very large Paladin.
"Well, I'll be dipped in shit and rolled in breadcrumbs!" said Darvin in surprise.
"One of Greg's recipe's, sir?" asked Guybrush.
"No, you cheeky bastard. Beranhond and Tigrisclawu are down there. Sure as the sun rises they are." Darvin explained. He quickly climbed a third of the way up the rigging of the main mast and started to wave at Beranhond and his companions.
"Beranhond! Up here! The Lady Narath has missed you!"
Tigrisclawu and Flutterwings
Please note that the following is an adapted version of the thoughts and mindset of both Tigriclawu and Flutterwings. Sadly, bird and cat thoughts are hard to translate into the common speach of Faerun, so a certain amount of anthropomorphization is required.
Flutterwings the sparrow was born shortly after the troubles began. These troubles didn't bother her one bit as the destruction of parts of Baldur's Gate created wonderful hiding spots in which to nest and live. Plus, she and her siblings had many delightful places in which to swoop and soar, and there was always the presence of all the other sparrows from which she was thinking of selecting her mates.
The pier was one of her favorite places to stay around until one day when life became a little stranger after an odd human grabbed her and said 'you'll do nicely.' After that she felt this odd compulsion to fly about in an obvious way. This unerved part of her, but whenever she tried to stop she found that she couldn't. Her heart fluttered uncontrollably when a tiny human grabbed a hold of her body as she danced along the wharf. To her utter surprise she shouted, "Visit Oden's for all of your adventuring needs!" In perfect common speech at which the little girl screamed in horror and ran away.
Still, Flutterwings flew about drawing attention. Yet, she found that her ability to dart around and escape harm was superswallow! That part she adored, yet it was put to the test when an intelligent looking cat began to poke around the wharf.
Tigrisclawu hated Baldur's Gate. He hated the place the first time he had been brought by Beranhond, he hated it the second time he had been brought by Beranhond, and he hated it the third time that Beranhond sent him. The last time he protested about being sent as an advanced scout, shrieking in anger at Beranhond about being treated like a common household pet. Beranhond was about to give up until Evelaen stepped in and started to pet and cuddle him, encouraging him about how strong and tough and independent of a cat he was. Tigrisclawu knew that she was buttering him up, but he gave way to her utter charm and agreed to slink off into the city to search for a message from Violet.
On the second day in the city he found his way to the wharf and couldn't believe his eyes when the most delicious smelling swallow darted all around. He darted around, snarling, and hissing, his tail thick as he jumped from the various barrels, containers, and boxes in an attempt to catch the bird. Despite his best effort the swallow seemed to have an almost supernatural ability to avoid his attacks and the swings of his claws.
Finally, after a truly sneaky and dashing move he managed to trap the bird underneath his claws, as he licked his lips and bent his face toward the struggling the swallow. To his surprise the bird squeaked in common, "Deliver me to your master." Tigrisclawu growled, and then bent down, gently, and took the bird, delicately, into his mouth and carried it off in the hopes of finding Beranhond.
To his delight, he saw that Evelaen, and Beranhond, had actually made their way to the wharf. He dropped the swallow in front of Evelaen, just as a gentle reminder to Beranhond that he hadn't completely forgiven him.
Flutterwings the sparrow was born shortly after the troubles began. These troubles didn't bother her one bit as the destruction of parts of Baldur's Gate created wonderful hiding spots in which to nest and live. Plus, she and her siblings had many delightful places in which to swoop and soar, and there was always the presence of all the other sparrows from which she was thinking of selecting her mates.
The pier was one of her favorite places to stay around until one day when life became a little stranger after an odd human grabbed her and said 'you'll do nicely.' After that she felt this odd compulsion to fly about in an obvious way. This unerved part of her, but whenever she tried to stop she found that she couldn't. Her heart fluttered uncontrollably when a tiny human grabbed a hold of her body as she danced along the wharf. To her utter surprise she shouted, "Visit Oden's for all of your adventuring needs!" In perfect common speech at which the little girl screamed in horror and ran away.
Still, Flutterwings flew about drawing attention. Yet, she found that her ability to dart around and escape harm was superswallow! That part she adored, yet it was put to the test when an intelligent looking cat began to poke around the wharf.
Tigrisclawu hated Baldur's Gate. He hated the place the first time he had been brought by Beranhond, he hated it the second time he had been brought by Beranhond, and he hated it the third time that Beranhond sent him. The last time he protested about being sent as an advanced scout, shrieking in anger at Beranhond about being treated like a common household pet. Beranhond was about to give up until Evelaen stepped in and started to pet and cuddle him, encouraging him about how strong and tough and independent of a cat he was. Tigrisclawu knew that she was buttering him up, but he gave way to her utter charm and agreed to slink off into the city to search for a message from Violet.
On the second day in the city he found his way to the wharf and couldn't believe his eyes when the most delicious smelling swallow darted all around. He darted around, snarling, and hissing, his tail thick as he jumped from the various barrels, containers, and boxes in an attempt to catch the bird. Despite his best effort the swallow seemed to have an almost supernatural ability to avoid his attacks and the swings of his claws.
Finally, after a truly sneaky and dashing move he managed to trap the bird underneath his claws, as he licked his lips and bent his face toward the struggling the swallow. To his surprise the bird squeaked in common, "Deliver me to your master." Tigrisclawu growled, and then bent down, gently, and took the bird, delicately, into his mouth and carried it off in the hopes of finding Beranhond.
To his delight, he saw that Evelaen, and Beranhond, had actually made their way to the wharf. He dropped the swallow in front of Evelaen, just as a gentle reminder to Beranhond that he hadn't completely forgiven him.
Monday, January 18, 2016
For every season
The area surrounding Baldur's Gate had fallen steadily into a wilder and wilder state and travel was becoming increasingly difficult. Roving bands of brigands and outlaws harassed the few merchants and traders willing to brave the treacherous journey.
Outside of the once fair and prosperous city a small enclave had formed at the top of the hill guarding the path into the city. The people living their were called by a variety of names, though they themselves claimed no title or allegiance. The city officials generally let them be as they helped to guard the passage into the city and, for the most part, kept the peace.
Rumors floated around the city that the leader of the encampment was a former Paladin of Torm. Others said that it was a foul mouthed halfling, yet others swore to their dying day that it was an elf lord from a distant kingdom. Regardless, it was common knowledge that the leader of the encampment had been part of the alliance that had led the charge against the forces of the darkness years ago...
Beranhond sat up in shock, breathing heavily, sweat pouring from his brow. He looked about the room, trying to remind himself that he wasn't in the midst of the long ago battle.
"What's wrong Eth?" Came a woman's voice from beside him.
He rubbed his eyes and turned to look at her, smiling slightly despite himself.
"It was that dream again... of Candlekeep, and of my visit to the aftermath of the Temple of the druids." He said in a tired voice.
"Oh, Eth, I'm sorry." She said putting her hands around him and pulling him down into the mattress. "At least we made it safely to Baldur's Gate and can start looking to see if there is any sign or words of your friends.
"Yes." He said letting himself be pulled back into the comfort of the sheets.
As Evelaen fell noislessly back to sleep Beranhond's mind couldn't help but reflect on all the changes since his last trip to Baldur's Gate. It had been filled with the worst kind of adventure - after the disaster at Candlekeep he'd worked with the Paladin's of Torm to stem the tide of darkness from reaching into the continent. Yet, it had been for naught, as the dark God arose, and changed the balance of the land. All across Faerun word had spread that the Gods and Godesses were distant, beyond hearing, and their miracles and blessings seemingly less potent. Beranhond's own faith had been shaken after...
No, he thought, I'm not going to think about that right now.
He looked over at the dark haired, dark eyed, Evelaen, and pushed her hair out of her eyes. It had been an unexpected event that had brought them together, but she had become one of the few sources of comfort in the troublesome world of Faerun.
The next morning Evelaen and Beranhond packed up their meager belongings, said goodbye to the surprisingly polite innkeeper and headed off into the partially ruined city that was Baldur's Gate. Along the way Beranhond pointed out the changes that had occured to the city - especially noting the square where he had once upon a time had the ability to cure the multitude, and the entrances to the underground where they had to fight giant rats. Evelaen humored Beranhond as he narrated nostalgia, even asking a few follow up questions to show her willingness to listen.
Finally, after some backtracking around blocked streets they found their way to the wharf district.
"If Darvin is anywhere, he'll be here, and I know that Violet told me that she'd leave word for me at the docks if she was ever in the area."
Outside of the once fair and prosperous city a small enclave had formed at the top of the hill guarding the path into the city. The people living their were called by a variety of names, though they themselves claimed no title or allegiance. The city officials generally let them be as they helped to guard the passage into the city and, for the most part, kept the peace.
Rumors floated around the city that the leader of the encampment was a former Paladin of Torm. Others said that it was a foul mouthed halfling, yet others swore to their dying day that it was an elf lord from a distant kingdom. Regardless, it was common knowledge that the leader of the encampment had been part of the alliance that had led the charge against the forces of the darkness years ago...
Beranhond sat up in shock, breathing heavily, sweat pouring from his brow. He looked about the room, trying to remind himself that he wasn't in the midst of the long ago battle.
"What's wrong Eth?" Came a woman's voice from beside him.
He rubbed his eyes and turned to look at her, smiling slightly despite himself.
"It was that dream again... of Candlekeep, and of my visit to the aftermath of the Temple of the druids." He said in a tired voice.
"Oh, Eth, I'm sorry." She said putting her hands around him and pulling him down into the mattress. "At least we made it safely to Baldur's Gate and can start looking to see if there is any sign or words of your friends.
"Yes." He said letting himself be pulled back into the comfort of the sheets.
As Evelaen fell noislessly back to sleep Beranhond's mind couldn't help but reflect on all the changes since his last trip to Baldur's Gate. It had been filled with the worst kind of adventure - after the disaster at Candlekeep he'd worked with the Paladin's of Torm to stem the tide of darkness from reaching into the continent. Yet, it had been for naught, as the dark God arose, and changed the balance of the land. All across Faerun word had spread that the Gods and Godesses were distant, beyond hearing, and their miracles and blessings seemingly less potent. Beranhond's own faith had been shaken after...
No, he thought, I'm not going to think about that right now.
He looked over at the dark haired, dark eyed, Evelaen, and pushed her hair out of her eyes. It had been an unexpected event that had brought them together, but she had become one of the few sources of comfort in the troublesome world of Faerun.
The next morning Evelaen and Beranhond packed up their meager belongings, said goodbye to the surprisingly polite innkeeper and headed off into the partially ruined city that was Baldur's Gate. Along the way Beranhond pointed out the changes that had occured to the city - especially noting the square where he had once upon a time had the ability to cure the multitude, and the entrances to the underground where they had to fight giant rats. Evelaen humored Beranhond as he narrated nostalgia, even asking a few follow up questions to show her willingness to listen.
Finally, after some backtracking around blocked streets they found their way to the wharf district.
"If Darvin is anywhere, he'll be here, and I know that Violet told me that she'd leave word for me at the docks if she was ever in the area."
Thursday, May 16, 2013
Spiral Battle in Candlekeep
Here is the map of the area for the battle. Once we get everyone's initiative, the conflict will continue here.
The order of combat will be as follows:
- Johan
- Beranhond
- Ceilith
- Darvin
- Ragnar
- Baddies
Tuesday, March 26, 2013
Recap: As It Was Before, So Shall It Be Again 1.2C
May 7th, 1371
The adventurers divided into three groups. Group 1 consisted of Talathel, Gurkirat, Starks, and 2 henchman. Group 2 included Grumbleshanks, Hring, Arngrim, and 2 henchmen, and group 3 included Darvin, Beranhond, Thjodolf, and Scriptus and Codex. Everyone tried to be sneaky and perceptive. Cross Section of the Sewers.
Darvin and Beranhond (And Nym):
Upon entering the sewers, Darvin immediately discovers a secret door. Beranhond inspects the door for magic, and finds two auras. Darvin got everyone into position, while Tigrisclawu smelled for things. Tigrisclawu warned everyone that there was a person and something unnatural and foul behind the door. The group gets tense, and opens the door. They find a small tunnel, and continue to explore deeper, when an undead creature attacks them. Beranhond shoots arrows at it and Darvin attacks it with his cutlasses, and with a bit of help from a henchman, the wight goes down, almost draining Darvin.
As it dies, they are surprised to find a teenage half-elf boy trapped nearby. The boy introduces himself as Nym, and Beranhond and Darvin introduce the rest of the party with them to this mysterious stranger. Nym is very concerned that they are going to continue the abuse he's already been subjected to, and is not helped by Darvin's introduction as a pirate, though Beranhond helps to calm him down. Nym shows off some magic tricks, and Beranhond begins to suspect, with Tigrisclawu's help, that Nym is actually a girl. They keep talking, and Beranhond openly asks Nym if he's a girl, which Nym denies with a very blatant lie. The conversation continues, with Nym getting worried, but being soothed by Beranhond. Nym joined the party, and they set off again as Beranhond notices that Scriptus and Codex are sweet on each other.
Nym follows the group as they investigate the other doors in the corridor where they found Nym, wishing she could run. They find a body that has been dead for several hours, which Beranhond tries to heal and which makes Nym both curious and squeamish. Beranhond uses this as an opportunity to ask Nym about religion. They have a short discussion as they continue their search, while Darvin gets lost in thought. They enter a room with some rather odd things sitting around. They search the room, and find some magical stuff, including a Lathanderian robe. Nym grabs a light orb and rambles for a while, Beranhond finds a book, which he tries to open, but it explodes in his face. He heals those who need it. Not one for pleasantries, Darvin hurries them along to get back to the action, after Beranhond saves what he can from the charred remains. Nym is a bit confused about what's going on, but they get going again soon.
As they travel, Nym trails a little behind and gets caught in a daydream, but they travel on. Nym gets caught up on fighting wererats as they travel, and Beranhond gives her some silver arrows and advice. She is very nervous still when they come across a wererat that runs from them and leads them into a smoke cloud, which they quickly backtrack from to think through their actions.
Grumbleshanks:
Grumbleshanks hands out 1 Stinking Cloud Gas Grenade to himself, Arngrim, and Hring, and enters the sewers. They use some very handy hand and footholds that someone very considerately carved into the walls of the sewer. He continues adventuring down the sewers, preparing for the worst. Grumbleshanks hears something, and stands and listens for rats. He finds some, and attacks with his compatriots. The battle is over very quickly. Grumbleshanks got up and started off again down the tunnel.
He came upon another group of enemies, and tries unsuccessfully to sneak up on them. He attacks, and throws another Gas Grenade, disabling an enemy, who falls back to regroup.
Talathel and Gurkirat:
The group enters the sewers and comes upon some rats that they can't see but can hear. They decide to attack, trying to do so before they are noticed. They sneak up, and catch a wererat in human form unawares with several of his "friends."
They attack, Gurkirat swiping first before the rat-folk retaliate and attack feebly against Talathel. Talathel fights back, and Gurkirat throws a Stinking Cloud Grenade at the enemies. They trade another round of blows, both sides absorbing some small damage. And another round goes by, with all participants starting to feel somewhat pathetic by the time the enemies fall to Talathel and Gurkirat's attacks.
The adventurers divided into three groups. Group 1 consisted of Talathel, Gurkirat, Starks, and 2 henchman. Group 2 included Grumbleshanks, Hring, Arngrim, and 2 henchmen, and group 3 included Darvin, Beranhond, Thjodolf, and Scriptus and Codex. Everyone tried to be sneaky and perceptive. Cross Section of the Sewers.
Darvin and Beranhond (And Nym):
Upon entering the sewers, Darvin immediately discovers a secret door. Beranhond inspects the door for magic, and finds two auras. Darvin got everyone into position, while Tigrisclawu smelled for things. Tigrisclawu warned everyone that there was a person and something unnatural and foul behind the door. The group gets tense, and opens the door. They find a small tunnel, and continue to explore deeper, when an undead creature attacks them. Beranhond shoots arrows at it and Darvin attacks it with his cutlasses, and with a bit of help from a henchman, the wight goes down, almost draining Darvin.
As it dies, they are surprised to find a teenage half-elf boy trapped nearby. The boy introduces himself as Nym, and Beranhond and Darvin introduce the rest of the party with them to this mysterious stranger. Nym is very concerned that they are going to continue the abuse he's already been subjected to, and is not helped by Darvin's introduction as a pirate, though Beranhond helps to calm him down. Nym shows off some magic tricks, and Beranhond begins to suspect, with Tigrisclawu's help, that Nym is actually a girl. They keep talking, and Beranhond openly asks Nym if he's a girl, which Nym denies with a very blatant lie. The conversation continues, with Nym getting worried, but being soothed by Beranhond. Nym joined the party, and they set off again as Beranhond notices that Scriptus and Codex are sweet on each other.
Nym follows the group as they investigate the other doors in the corridor where they found Nym, wishing she could run. They find a body that has been dead for several hours, which Beranhond tries to heal and which makes Nym both curious and squeamish. Beranhond uses this as an opportunity to ask Nym about religion. They have a short discussion as they continue their search, while Darvin gets lost in thought. They enter a room with some rather odd things sitting around. They search the room, and find some magical stuff, including a Lathanderian robe. Nym grabs a light orb and rambles for a while, Beranhond finds a book, which he tries to open, but it explodes in his face. He heals those who need it. Not one for pleasantries, Darvin hurries them along to get back to the action, after Beranhond saves what he can from the charred remains. Nym is a bit confused about what's going on, but they get going again soon.
As they travel, Nym trails a little behind and gets caught in a daydream, but they travel on. Nym gets caught up on fighting wererats as they travel, and Beranhond gives her some silver arrows and advice. She is very nervous still when they come across a wererat that runs from them and leads them into a smoke cloud, which they quickly backtrack from to think through their actions.
Grumbleshanks:
Grumbleshanks hands out 1 Stinking Cloud Gas Grenade to himself, Arngrim, and Hring, and enters the sewers. They use some very handy hand and footholds that someone very considerately carved into the walls of the sewer. He continues adventuring down the sewers, preparing for the worst. Grumbleshanks hears something, and stands and listens for rats. He finds some, and attacks with his compatriots. The battle is over very quickly. Grumbleshanks got up and started off again down the tunnel.
He came upon another group of enemies, and tries unsuccessfully to sneak up on them. He attacks, and throws another Gas Grenade, disabling an enemy, who falls back to regroup.
Talathel and Gurkirat:
The group enters the sewers and comes upon some rats that they can't see but can hear. They decide to attack, trying to do so before they are noticed. They sneak up, and catch a wererat in human form unawares with several of his "friends."
They attack, Gurkirat swiping first before the rat-folk retaliate and attack feebly against Talathel. Talathel fights back, and Gurkirat throws a Stinking Cloud Grenade at the enemies. They trade another round of blows, both sides absorbing some small damage. And another round goes by, with all participants starting to feel somewhat pathetic by the time the enemies fall to Talathel and Gurkirat's attacks.
Candlekeep Quandary: Beranhond, Darvin, and Johan Investigate (Part 1)
May 22nd, 1373
After a night of light drinking, as befits adventurers about to set out on a quest, Beranhond, Darvin, and Johan set out the next morning from Baldur's Gate with Alixondra and Ragnar tagging along.
They set out at a reasonable hour, and Beranhond set a moderate pace for the horses, allowing them to travel without dawdling and taking more than two days to get there while not jeopardizing the horses and allowing the riders to be alert and not too tired when they arrive at Candlekeep.
The beginning of the first day is mostly uneventful. They see small groups of refugees streaming toward Baldur's Gate, as well as several small groups of bandits that make themselves scarce as soon as they realize how well armed the band is. As they travel, they begin to discuss where they will camp and how they will approach Candlekeep.
The two most common ways to travel to Candlekeep are to either camp on the plains about halfway between or to push through to Beregost the first day to find an inn and then leave a bit later in the day for the shorter journey from Beregost to Candlekeep.
What I need:
After a night of light drinking, as befits adventurers about to set out on a quest, Beranhond, Darvin, and Johan set out the next morning from Baldur's Gate with Alixondra and Ragnar tagging along.
They set out at a reasonable hour, and Beranhond set a moderate pace for the horses, allowing them to travel without dawdling and taking more than two days to get there while not jeopardizing the horses and allowing the riders to be alert and not too tired when they arrive at Candlekeep.
The beginning of the first day is mostly uneventful. They see small groups of refugees streaming toward Baldur's Gate, as well as several small groups of bandits that make themselves scarce as soon as they realize how well armed the band is. As they travel, they begin to discuss where they will camp and how they will approach Candlekeep.
The two most common ways to travel to Candlekeep are to either camp on the plains about halfway between or to push through to Beregost the first day to find an inn and then leave a bit later in the day for the shorter journey from Beregost to Candlekeep.
What I need:
- Please decide whether you will camp on the plains or stay in Beregost.
- Please give me a perception check.
Candlekeep Quandary: Beranhond, Darvin, and Johan Investigate (Part 0)
I assume that you are traveling together to Candlekeep and that you are going to be riding down together by horse. That is the usual way of getting there. I also assume that you will bring Ragdar, but Ceilith will stay behind to help with the city.
Please let me know if you would like to bring anyone else, travel in some other manner, or change anything from the above plan, and I'll start writing up your journey.
Please let me know if you would like to bring anyone else, travel in some other manner, or change anything from the above plan, and I'll start writing up your journey.
Thursday, March 14, 2013
City Council Meeting Summary
It is at this point that I would urge you to all start taking notes. I have started, because there is WAY too much information that I'm sharing here and in emails to you individually to be able to keep track of it without some sort of notes. :)
Georgia begins by giving everyone a bit of the recent history, to make sure everyone has the same information to start from.
The group ate their exquisite salads, followed by a cheese plate with raw sheep's milk Roquefort Coccinelle and toatsted hazelnuts. The third course consisted of a Gorgonzola and Pancetta pasta dish with orecchiette, fresh red bell pepper, scallions, walnuts and gorgonzola cream sauce. The meal concluded with small trays of sea-salt caramels.
Small talk continued throughout the meal. Once the plates had been cleared, Georgia asked Jeeves <i>(the servant)</i> to invite Ragnar and Ceilith to join them.
Under his breath, Jeeves whispered, "My vast knowledge is wasted here!"
Once Ragnar and Ceilith had entered and taken their seats, the meeting and strategizing began.
Under his breath, Jeeves whispered, "My vast knowledge is wasted here!"
Once Ragnar and Ceilith had entered and taken their seats, the meeting and strategizing began.
Georgia begins by giving everyone a bit of the recent history, to make sure everyone has the same information to start from.
- Georgia begins the breakdown in a very businesslike manner. Ishmael and his false Lathanderian priests have done quite a lot of damage through both direct and indirect assaults on Waterdeep and Baldur's Gate. It's suspected that his lot are the reason for the silence from Candlekeep and Luskan.
Tarryn Kallis (formerly known as Councilwoman 2, sitting between Johan and Councilwoman 3)
- She explains that the City Council has not been idle, and has spent the past year working to formed an alliance with several other cities in the area, including Candlekeep, Scornubel, Athkatla, and Murann, as well as several smaller towns. They were starting to try to raise an army to defend themselves, but about six months ago, their emissary to Candlekeep stopped writing, and none of their attempts to contact them have been successful.
- Evelia adds that they she had even begun having some regular, if rather tense, discussions about mutual defense with the druids of the Moonshae Isles, but that Algor, the leader of the druids, had not been at the agreed upon meeting place for either of their last three meetings. The next meeting is scheduled for less than a week away, but they're beginning to lose hope.
- As if reciting a long-worn argument, Delilah brought up the undead and how to ensure they would be able to protect the city against them. She mentioned a city watch and armed guards patrolling both the city and the sewers, but warned that the watch was stretched extremely thin with all of the refugees pouring into the city. If an attack comes, they will have to cut back somewhere, and that means they will be exposing themselves to an attack somewhere. They just don't have the resources to do everything at once.
- Abarrion stood up with a really big gesture to draw attention to himself and said, "Things are bad!" Having said his piece, he promptly sat down and tried to continue staying awake.
Tuesday, March 12, 2013
The City Council
At 6:00, Beranhond, Darvin, Johan, Nym, and Talathel arrived at the City Hall, where they found Violet waiting for them.
"Dinner and the City Council are waiting inside," Violet told the group, "They have been growing nervous with all of the bad news that has been coming in recently about the other cities along the coast. I would recommend calming their fears as much as you can."
As Violet led them into a modest sized building, past several artistic renderings of the city and the surrounding countryside, she continued, "The last they heard from any of you, you had just encountered Methasse at Waterdeep and were traveling to the Shaar to try to raise troops to help you fight him. They are hopeful that you've been successful, because they received word this last week that Methasse is considering attacking here next."
The group came to a medium dining room with a door on each side. In the center of the room was a round table and fifteen chairs spaced equally around it. Each chair had a table setting with a generous salad, several bottles of assorted dressings, and a few small bowls of toppings for the salad. As they approached, a servant who had been standing the door opposite the one they entered from quickly ducked into the door she'd been standing next to. Several moments later, the servant reappeared and took up her place beside the door as the 7 members of the City Council came through the door one by one.
As the council came out, the members of the group that had been in Baldur's Gate at the beginning of their adventures recognized both Arngrim and Hring among the seven. Apparently, they had both become more of a political fixture in the city since the last time Kilink had visited.
One of the women that nobody in Kilink recognized raised her arms in greeting, "Welcome, Kilink. I see your group has changed a bit since last we met. I am Georgia Stourm, the leader of this council. Please, sit and join us for a dinner, and we will bring each other up to date and strategize how to stem the tide of the darkness that sweeps over the land." Georgia motioned everyone to sit, and the council spread out to put themselves next to and between the members of Kilink.
The final seating arrangement was in this order: Georgia, Beranhond, Councilwoman 1, Talathel, Councilman 1, Darvin, Hring, Nym, Arngrim, Johan, Councilwoman 2, Councilwoman 3.
Are you thinking you'd like to roleplay this dinner, or would you prefer to just do more of a rundown of important information and such? Please vote.
"Dinner and the City Council are waiting inside," Violet told the group, "They have been growing nervous with all of the bad news that has been coming in recently about the other cities along the coast. I would recommend calming their fears as much as you can."
As Violet led them into a modest sized building, past several artistic renderings of the city and the surrounding countryside, she continued, "The last they heard from any of you, you had just encountered Methasse at Waterdeep and were traveling to the Shaar to try to raise troops to help you fight him. They are hopeful that you've been successful, because they received word this last week that Methasse is considering attacking here next."
The group came to a medium dining room with a door on each side. In the center of the room was a round table and fifteen chairs spaced equally around it. Each chair had a table setting with a generous salad, several bottles of assorted dressings, and a few small bowls of toppings for the salad. As they approached, a servant who had been standing the door opposite the one they entered from quickly ducked into the door she'd been standing next to. Several moments later, the servant reappeared and took up her place beside the door as the 7 members of the City Council came through the door one by one.
As the council came out, the members of the group that had been in Baldur's Gate at the beginning of their adventures recognized both Arngrim and Hring among the seven. Apparently, they had both become more of a political fixture in the city since the last time Kilink had visited.
One of the women that nobody in Kilink recognized raised her arms in greeting, "Welcome, Kilink. I see your group has changed a bit since last we met. I am Georgia Stourm, the leader of this council. Please, sit and join us for a dinner, and we will bring each other up to date and strategize how to stem the tide of the darkness that sweeps over the land." Georgia motioned everyone to sit, and the council spread out to put themselves next to and between the members of Kilink.
The final seating arrangement was in this order: Georgia, Beranhond, Councilwoman 1, Talathel, Councilman 1, Darvin, Hring, Nym, Arngrim, Johan, Councilwoman 2, Councilwoman 3.
Are you thinking you'd like to roleplay this dinner, or would you prefer to just do more of a rundown of important information and such? Please vote.
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