“A pity. Making you fight two of my boys seemed like the perfect test.” Garlan smirks. “Very well, no actual combat. Still, you should be able to handle a few training dummies, right? Regular ones, not the enchanted ones that fight back.” He reassures him. “We have a large training yard and all sorts of weapons available. Pick a few weapons you want to try and I'll watch you fight a few training dummies. That should be enough of a demonstration... if you are as good as you say.” The captain suggests.
"Indeed, I am also a firm believer that actions do speak louder than words." Anton nods, returning a smile. "While I'm confident I can still take on two youngsters, I don't want to break my back in the process. After all, who'll train them then?" He chuckles, just as Garlan makes a compromise. "Very well, I'd like to take a garner of what weapons you have in stock, hoho, I'll even let you suggest some if you wish. Perhaps some different weapon you'd like the rookies to learn about?" The old man agreed to the compromise, waiting for the captain to show him the training ground.
To her mild disappointment Komi discovers that Marika doesn't have a marketplace - not yet. There is a dedicated place for it, but most of the shops and stalls around it are still empty - apparently most merchants are waiting for Marika to grow a bit more before they decide it's worth the risk to come here. Still, there are some shops and stalls to see:
* A few merchants selling various foods at their stalls: vegetables, eggs, meats, mushrooms, river fish... some of the foods are cooked, others are raw.
* A few more selling various things the locals might need, such as fabrics.
* A general store offering all sorts of items, so there could be something of use to her... if she's really lucky.
* A future book store, not yet open. No one is quite sure what sort of books will be sold there.
* A potion shop (she is told about a second, cheaper potion shop elsewhere in the village).
* Two bakeries competing with each other.
* A tailor and three seamstresses competing with each, and there are rumors of another tailor arriving soon(ish).
* A shop that is supposed to open later during the day, apparently owned by some young sorceress. No one is sure exactly what she will have to offer.
* And a lone peddler, his cart full of various things – no way to tell if any of them are worth anything.
Also, she is told that there are two blacksmiths, one making tools for the villagers, the other making weapons and armor for the local guards.
d100 = 36
Most of the rumors she hears sound like silly little stories people have made up: a naked elf that can be seen only at night, either under the full moon or when there is no moon (depending on the version); regular trees that walk around like people; a coin that brings great fortune when found and then vanishes, to be found by someone else; a monster living in the river next to the village, somehow unnoticed by anyone; a talking horse looking for its lost rider; and many more. The one about two people competing who will open a better brothel could be true – not that it helps her if it is.
Komi wondered on some of the things she heard. Not much that she could go off, and if she had to guess the theory about some kind of monster in the river was likely caused by her in the first place, so it wasn't worth pursuing. She was a little taken aback by the suggestion of introducing a brothel to this community. What would...how....she had worked hard to avoid temptations like that, so she wasn't even sure where anyone would begin with somehow finding people willing to work there. On some level...she was mildly curious at exactly how many people would really visit such a place, but she couldn't imagine ever setting foot in one herself. Little of it really seemed like much, and none seemed to point to anyone else in this area even having the ability to begin to do something with her problems.
While she would need to pick up food to hold her over, she figured she would save that for last. But she assumed her first stop would be to the potion shop. It would be cheaper to just buy materials than whole elixirs and she was relatively sure she could handle doing it. She'd just need some medical herbs....as well as possibly some poisons. She had reasoned that in order to sustain herself, the best way to do it would be to grow her own food. She could use some poison for pests and pick up seeds to grow things like she had done in the temple before at one of these food stalls, she was sure. That also meant she would need to visit the general shop for some proper tools to help cultivate the earth. Being close by the river should mean the soil is healthy and water shouldn't be an issue.....she had it worked out. She still would need to look into more occult things, but she reasoned that perhaps it was better to see how much this would all require and then worry about the rest later now that she knew where they all were, possibly visiting that store meant to be opened later. Even after building a small garden to grow things, there were still other places she'd have to see.
“I hope you enjoy your stay, miss. Do let me know if there's anything I can do to make it more pleasant.” Ellie locks the door again and escorts her down to the bar.
The bartender takes the money and nods at Ellie, who hands her the key. “Enjoy your stay, miss.” She repeats.
As she looks around Lydia spots a few empty tables, two of them relatively clean. One is in the corner, away from the other patrons, perfect if she would rather be by herself. The other is close to the stairs up. “Which table would you like, miss?” Ellie asks, standing close by.
Lydia walks to the open table by the stairs and takes a seat, feeling at home, though still slightly unnerved, in the dingy tavern. Assuming Ellie is still nearby, the thief asks "What kind of swill you got here? Probably some stew or soup, right? I'll take whatever's ready. I'll have whatever beer you got too. It'll probably be watered-down and half as strong as when it's made, but that's part of the charm of these shitholes, eh?" She gives an easy smile. "Though I do wish the barkeep at least tried to make the place look presentable. You can tell it's a trash heap 'cause he wants it that way rather than 'cause it's gotta be that way."
At first the barmaid gives his a suspicious look, but seeing that he isn't ogling her and isn't asking her to sleep with him she relaxes... a little. “All the food and drinks cost the same here, mister.” She informs him, before nodding. “Alright, stew and wine coming right up.” She leaves and goes through a door to the back of the establishment. A minute later she returns, carrying a bowl of steaming hot stew, stops at the bar to get a bottle of wine, a glass, and some utensils.
The barmaid brings everything and puts it all on the table in front of him, then looks at him. “Anything else you need?”
"Maybe some company for the wine?" He motioned at the seat across from her and already moved to cut off her protest. "Yeah, sure. I'm not going to make you sit just. Just figured you'd rather take a moment where you're not constantly getting grabbed at. I just wanted to know your story. Marika is a brand new town after all, so everyone has one. Why they came, where they come from, why they're working in" He glanced at the bartender to make sure he was out of hearing, "...such a dump."
Marika's layout is quite confusing, the streets twisting and turning – clearly there was not enough planning before the construction started. Fortunately most buildings are made of wood, so it will be easy to tear them down and build new, better organized ones when the time comes. But for now she will have to make do with what is there.
d100 = 29
As she explores the village she overhears parts of various conversations.
-------------
“I saw it!”
“Sure you did.”
“I really did!”
“While drunk.”
“T-that doesn't matter!”
“In the middle of the night.”
“T-that-”
“With clouds covering the sky.”
“...”
“See it during the day, when sober. Then I might believe you.” The men continue walking in silence.
-------------
“It's cursed, I tell you! Cursed!”
“A cursed gem. Right. And it just happens to be in Marika, huh.”
“Fine, don't believe me! Not my fault if you find it and vanish because of it! Like that guy's wife!”
“Sure. Whatever you say, buddy...” The first man gives up in trying to convince the second and shuts up.
-------------
“She received another love letter?”
“She did. But this one was different – it was spiked with some sort of aphrodisiac...”
“Oh. That's a jerk move. I hope she noticed on time...”
“She did, and she's not happy. Neither is her husband.”
“My husband would not be happy either if some unknown man kept sending me love letters.” The two women are soon lost from sight.
-------------
Sadly, the little snippets, while curious, are of little value to her right now. But at least she manages to get used to Marika's roads, so it will be easier to find her way in a hurry or if she ever manages to get lost.
“A pity. Making you fight two of my boys seemed like the perfect test.” Garlan smirks. “Very well, no actual combat. Still, you should be able to handle a few training dummies, right? Regular ones, not the enchanted ones that fight back.” He reassures him. “We have a large training yard and all sorts of weapons available. Pick a few weapons you want to try and I'll watch you fight a few training dummies. That should be enough of a demonstration... if you are as good as you say.” The captain suggests.
To her mild disappointment Komi discovers that Marika doesn't have a marketplace - not yet. There is a dedicated place for it, but most of the shops and stalls around it are still empty - apparently most merchants are waiting for Marika to grow a bit more before they decide it's worth the risk to come here. Still, there are some shops and stalls to see:
* A few merchants selling various foods at their stalls: vegetables, eggs, meats, mushrooms, river fish... some of the foods are cooked, others are raw.
* A few more selling various things the locals might need, such as fabrics.
* A general store offering all sorts of items, so there could be something of use to her... if she's really lucky.
* A future book store, not yet open. No one is quite sure what sort of books will be sold there.
* A potion shop (she is told about a second, cheaper potion shop elsewhere in the village).
* Two bakeries competing with each other.
* A tailor and three seamstresses competing with each, and there are rumors of another tailor arriving soon(ish).
* A shop that is supposed to open later during the day, apparently owned by some young sorceress. No one is sure exactly what she will have to offer.
* And a lone peddler, his cart full of various things – no way to tell if any of them are worth anything.
Also, she is told that there are two blacksmiths, one making tools for the villagers, the other making weapons and armor for the local guards.
d100 = 36
Most of the rumors she hears sound like silly little stories people have made up: a naked elf that can be seen only at night, either under the full moon or when there is no moon (depending on the version); regular trees that walk around like people; a coin that brings great fortune when found and then vanishes, to be found by someone else; a monster living in the river next to the village, somehow unnoticed by anyone; a talking horse looking for its lost rider; and many more. The one about two people competing who will open a better brothel could be true – not that it helps her if it is.
While some of the rumors are likely based on real things – as is often the case with rumors – the ones she heard are of little use to her, at least on their own.
“I hope you enjoy your stay, miss. Do let me know if there's anything I can do to make it more pleasant.” Ellie locks the door again and escorts her down to the bar.
The bartender takes the money and nods at Ellie, who hands her the key. “Enjoy your stay, miss.” She repeats.
As she looks around Lydia spots a few empty tables, two of them relatively clean. One is in the corner, away from the other patrons, perfect if she would rather be by herself. The other is close to the stairs up. “Which table would you like, miss?” Ellie asks, standing close by.
The frost melts off her and the cold leaves her, at least for now, allowing her to focus on the task at hand. At her chanting a number of nearby vines respond and lash out at the beast, trying to restrain it. The wolf notices what is happening and tries to dodge...
1d100 = 72
Nature Magic: +10
Total: 82
1d100 = 4
Agility: +20
Strength: +20
Total: 44
…but despite its agility it is no use, the vines are too numerous and too fast. Soon it is restrained, its movements greatly limited. The beast immediately attempts to break free, but its considerable strength is not enough to overcome the vines. All it can do is thrush around in vain...
1d100 = 14
Restrained: +30
Total: 44
1d100 = 9
Restrained: +30
Total: 39
Jonas and Galza use this chance to attack, but the beast proves quite illusive. The woodcutter's axe barely grazes its side and the wound closes right away, while Galza misses outright as the beast ducks and her mighty kick passes above it.
Suddenly the beast, having managed to free its throat, opens its mouth as if preparing another frosty breath...
As Avella thinks about her brother teleporting she realizes that doing so in an unfamiliar dense forest might not be such a good idea – there's no way to be sure where one would teleport to. And using a haste spell isn't much better – if anything it will make it easier to crush into an obstacle. Her imagination helpfully provides some images: Her brother teleporting himself right above a forest pool only to then fall down into the cold and dirty water... her brother teleporting himself in some thorny bushes, his clothes getting ruined as he tries to untangle himself and get out, leaving him almost naked until he can get some new clothes... her brother running way too fast and smashing face-first into the trunk of an ancient tree... she can't help but chuckle at the images as she continues to rush to her destination.
Eventually she is forced to stop and catch her breath...
1d100 = 64
Previous Progress: +10
Total: 74
...but as she looks through the trees to see what lies ahead Avella discovers that while she was lost in thought she has found her goal.
Ahead of her is a small forest clearing. A black wolf-like beast is there, entangled in vines and trying to free itself while dodging the attacks of Jonas and Galza. Mylea is a bit further behind them, watching.
Having caught her breath Avella realizes that if she were to attack now she would have the element of surprise, since the beast seems to be unaware of her presence.
At first the ghosts just look at her, confused, but when Eike points at the footprints the bandits left behind the two finally get it and float away, following the tracks. When they are lost from sight Eike turns to her mistress. “Something doesn't add up. It is quite unusual for bandits to steal everything they can and destroy the rest.” she notes, then frowns as she looks at her mistress. “You seem exhausted. You should use this chance and rest. I will stand guard until the ghosts return.” She suggests, for a moment sounding almost the same as when she was alive.
Since she was already planning to rest Ida has no reason to disagree. Sitting down she quickly falls asleep. And as she sleeps she starts dreaming...
1d100 = 8
At first she dreams of being a simple maid in service of lady Livinia...
...then she dreams of serving her lady in more carnal ways, sometimes alone and other times together with Eike...
...and then the dream skips ahead again, to her meeting with lady Victoria. But in the dream both Ida and Victoria are completely naked while they talk. Again the lady starts teasing her with her foot, quickly getting her horny and wet... but this time, as she is about to leave, Ida is stopped by the lady...
Before the dream can go further Eike shakes her awake and informs her that the ghosts are back.
Ida takes a minute to fully wake up, then orders the ghosts to report.
1d100 = 83
Whether due to luck or skill – but probably luck – the two ghosts have good news to report - apparently they found something... even if it is not quite what she expected.
“No camp, just old stones, one guard, and a hole in the ground.” Is the ghosts' short report.
“Old stones? That could be a ruin of some sort... The guard is clear enough. And the 'hole in the ground' could be a mine... Could we have found the mine we are looking for? Or at least another old mine?” Eike wonders.
Ida just nods as she wonders the same... and tries to ignore her arousal. Having rested for a few hours she is no longer tired and is able to use her full power, but her dreams have left her quite aroused, her pussy wet. It is quite distracting and will make things more difficult for her... but the sun is starting to set. If they leave now and rush, they should be able to reach the suspected mine just after sunset. If Ida chooses to stay and take care of her arousal – or have Eike take care of it – she will waste some precious time and be forced to travel at night at least part of the way, but she won't be distracted and will be able to focus fully. Decisions, decisions...
(I'm going to take some time before I reply to the rest of the posts.)
For a moment Ida wanted to go immediately... but then thought better of it.
She dropped her cloak and started pleasuring herself, her thoughts on her mistress... Lady Livinia. Of her big breasts, long legs, full hips, a taste of her pussy-
Ida arched as she climaxed.
Her thoughts still on Livinia... on her coy yet pleasant way of being, on her caring for her subjects... a tear started flowing down Ida's cheek.
One day, she would find Lady Livinia's remnants... and rise her.
She rested a little and put on her cloak. For a moment she stood still then slowly raised her hand - green whisps of energies gathered in her hand, before disappearing as she closed her fist. One day...
She turned to ghosts and ordered them to lead her to bandits.
Eike was right - their opponents were strange... but darkness, is the undead's element. Following the ghosts, flanked by Eike and Wraith, Ida marched to find her opponent.
Lydia walks to the open table by the stairs and takes a seat, feeling at home, though still slightly unnerved, in the dingy tavern. Assuming Ellie is still nearby, the thief asks "What kind of swill you got here? Probably some stew or soup, right? I'll take whatever's ready. I'll have whatever beer you got too. It'll probably be watered-down and half as strong as when it's made, but that's part of the charm of these shitholes, eh?" She gives an easy smile. "Though I do wish the barkeep at least tried to make the place look presentable. You can tell it's a trash heap 'cause he wants it that way rather than 'cause it's gotta be that way."
Ellie has indeed followed her and is now standing near by. “We've got some fresh stew, still hot. And I think we still have some beer, too.” She raises an eyebrow at Lydia's last comment, apparently a little surprised by it. “That's true, but it's his shithole, and the pay is decent enough.” She shrugs. “Anyway, I'll go get your food and drink.”
Ellie leaves and heads through a door to the back, only to return a minute later, carrying a bowl of steaming hot stew. She stops at the bar to pick up a tankard of beer, then brings everything to Lydia's table. “Here's your food and drink, miss. I hope you enjoy it. Let me know if you would like more... or if there's anything else you need.” She manages to sound completely innocent even as she says something that could be interpreted as suggestive.
"Maybe some company for the wine?" He motioned at the seat across from her and already moved to cut off her protest. "Yeah, sure. I'm not going to make you sit just. Just figured you'd rather take a moment where you're not constantly getting grabbed at. I just wanted to know your story. Marika is a brand new town after all, so everyone has one. Why they came, where they come from, why they're working in" He glanced at the bartender to make sure he was out of hearing, "...such a dump."
The waitress opens her mouth to protest, but Ganith beats her to it. She looks at him briefly, thinking over what he just said, then shrugs and sits down. “There isn't much to say about me. My name is Milly and I'm from a small farming village that most people have never heard of. Our family owns one of the many small farms there. The droughts made life difficult, but we managed to survive. However, as the youngest child I won't get much when our parents eventually pass away. My brothers will inherit the farm, my sister will get married to her fiancee and go live with him, but me? As the youngest I will get a few Gil at most, then I'll have to either get married as well or move away. So, when I heard about Marika from a bard passing through the village, I decided to try my luck. Thus here I am.” She shrugs again. “As for working here, the constant groping was annoying at first, but once I learned how to dodge things became a lot more bearable. And the pay is better than what I would earn at the farm while the work is not as demanding. So it's not that bad.” She explains, then looks at him, her eyes briefly going to his wings. “What about you, mister? Where are you from and what brings you to Marika?” She asks, curiosity in her eyes.
For a moment Ida wanted to go immediately... but then thought better of it.
She dropped her cloak and started pleasuring herself, her thoughts on her mistress... Lady Livinia. Of her big breasts, long legs, full hips, a taste of her pussy-
Ida arched as she climaxed.
Her thoughts still on Livinia... on her coy yet pleasant way of being, on her caring for her subjects... a tear started flowing down Ida's cheek.
One day, she would find Lady Livinia's remnants... and rise her.
She rested a little and put on her cloak. For a moment she stood still then slowly raised her hand - green whisps of energies gathered in her hand, before disappearing as she closed her fist. One day...
She turned to ghosts and ordered them to lead her to bandits.
Eike was right - their opponents were strange... but darkness, is the undead's element. Following the ghosts, flanked by Eike and Wraith, Ida marched to find her opponent.
As she rests after her climax Ida notices Eike watching her. The undead warrior is biting her lips as she stares at Ida's exposed pussy, as if wanting to say something... but then looks away, apparently deciding not to.
23
Once again Ida is reminded that the ghosts are not the brightest. At first everything is fine, but as night falls and darkness covers the land, the two manage to get lost. It takes a couple of extra hours to find their target and it is well past sunset – closer to midnight, really - when they finally arrive.
Observing from a safe distance Ida sees the ruins of some old buildings at the base of a large hill. And halfway up the hill is the 'hole in the ground' mentioned by the ghosts. It might be really be a mine...
There is a lone figure outside the suspected mine – a sentry, no doubt. However, the man is not taking his job seriously, sitting on the ground and barely paying attention to his surroundings. There's a spear on the ground next to him and a short sword on his belt.
With the sentry distracted it is easy for Ida and Eike to get closer undetected.
1d100 = 90
Looking around, searching for other sentries or any traps, Ida finds nothing. She feels certain that the man is the only obstacle. Clearly the bandits, or whatever they are, do not expect anyone to come here and do not consider it necessary to be more cautious – which makes things easier for her.
(Replies will be rather slow today, and possibly tomorrow too.)
"Indeed, I am also a firm believer that actions do speak louder than words." Anton nods, returning a smile. "While I'm confident I can still take on two youngsters, I don't want to break my back in the process. After all, who'll train them then?" He chuckles, just as Garlan makes a compromise. "Very well, I'd like to take a garner of what weapons you have in stock, hoho, I'll even let you suggest some if you wish. Perhaps some different weapon you'd like the rookies to learn about?" The old man agreed to the compromise, waiting for the captain to show him the training ground.
“Good. Follow me.” Garlan gets up and leads Anton out of the room. “We have all sorts of weapons available, but I think spears, halberds, maces and axes will be the ones to see the most use. Plus swords, of course, since all guards get a sword as a backup weapon, but we have that covered already.” He explains as they walk.
Soon they reach a large open training area. One section has some targets for bow practice, but most of it is dedicated to melee combat, with a number of dummies ready for use. There are also all sort of melee weapons available, exactly as the captain said. “Here we are. Choose which weapons you;re going to use, practice a bit if you want, then show me your skill by fighting some of the dummies. I'll watch from the side and when you're done I will tell you my decision.”
(Again, dice rolls to determine the outcome, with preparation, chosen approach, and skill affecting the result.)
“Good. Follow me.” Garlan gets up and leads Anton out of the room. “We have all sorts of weapons available, but I think spears, halberds, maces and axes will be the ones to see the most use. Plus swords, of course, since all guards get a sword as a backup weapon, but we have that covered already.” He explains as they walk.
Soon they reach a large open training area. One section has some targets for bow practice, but most of it is dedicated to melee combat, with a number of dummies ready for use. There are also all sort of melee weapons available, exactly as the captain said. “Here we are. Choose which weapons you;re going to use, practice a bit if you want, then show me your skill by fighting some of the dummies. I'll watch from the side and when you're done I will tell you my decision.”
(Again, dice rolls to determine the outcome, with preparation, chosen approach, and skill affecting the result.)
"Spears, maces, and axes are quite basic. I am however surprised that you'd give your soldiers halberds. It is quite an exquisite weapon, a combination of a spear, and a small axe. Yet requires a certain level of skill to handle properly." Anton said as they made their way to the training grounds. The old man whistles as he saw their equipment, but still carries an odd confidence that seemed out of place with the elderly "veteran." And as he listened to Garlan's instructions, "Hoho, very well." He grins as he picks up a spear. "I'll refrain from using the mace, and an axe. Those types of weapons are better suited for... combat training, rather than simply swinging at an unmoving dummy." Anton said in a confident done, gripping the spear's shaft tightly to get a feel of its weight, and balance. "A good weapon." He smiles as she stands in front of the training dummy. "A spear, a weapon suited for mid-range combat. Or for dealing with cavalry, or other monsters that simply charge at you at full speed." Anton then enters his instructor mode, giving a brief explanation of the weapon as he swings, thrusts, and twirls it around with expert movements. "On a regular soldier, it'll be nothing more than a weapon to stab with. But for a more practiced man. A spear can be used for distractions as well, keep your enemy at range, feint by swinging for their legs, parry their attacks by using the shaft, before finally delivering a deadly blow toward their neck, or their chest." Though he couldn't handle actual combat without overexerting himself, Anton still showed impressive movements, especially as it came from an elderly man such as himself.
Upon her return to the Singing Maiden Arthuria is greeted by a blonde woman.
“Welcome to the Singing Maiden, ser! I am Patricia, the owner. I am sorry I could not greet you personally earlier, I was a little... occupied at the time.” She does not elaborate. “Please let me know if there's anything I can do for you.” The blonde tells her, then goes behind the bar. Vivian, the waitress she spoke to earlier, approaches her. “Welcome back, Ser Arthuria! Would you like something to eat or drink? Or will you be retiring for the night?”
Ellie has indeed followed her and is now standing near by. “We've got some fresh stew, still hot. And I think we still have some beer, too.” She raises an eyebrow at Lydia's last comment, apparently a little surprised by it. “That's true, but it's his shithole, and the pay is decent enough.” She shrugs. “Anyway, I'll go get your food and drink.”
Ellie leaves and heads through a door to the back, only to return a minute later, carrying a bowl of steaming hot stew. She stops at the bar to pick up a tankard of beer, then brings everything to Lydia's table. “Here's your food and drink, miss. I hope you enjoy it. Let me know if you would like more... or if there's anything else you need.” She manages to sound completely innocent even as she says something that could be interpreted as suggestive.
The waitress opens her mouth to protest, but Ganith beats her to it. She looks at him briefly, thinking over what he just said, then shrugs and sits down. “There isn't much to say about me. My name is Milly and I'm from a small farming village that most people have never heard of. Our family owns one of the many small farms there. The droughts made life difficult, but we managed to survive. However, as the youngest child I won't get much when our parents eventually pass away. My brothers will inherit the farm, my sister will get married to her fiancee and go live with him, but me? As the youngest I will get a few Gil at most, then I'll have to either get married as well or move away. So, when I heard about Marika from a bard passing through the village, I decided to try my luck. Thus here I am.” She shrugs again. “As for working here, the constant groping was annoying at first, but once I learned how to dodge things became a lot more bearable. And the pay is better than what I would earn at the farm while the work is not as demanding. So it's not that bad.” She explains, then looks at him, her eyes briefly going to his wings. “What about you, mister? Where are you from and what brings you to Marika?” She asks, curiosity in her eyes.
As she rests after her climax Ida notices Eike watching her. The undead warrior is biting her lips as she stares at Ida's exposed pussy, as if wanting to say something... but then looks away, apparently deciding not to.
23
Once again Ida is reminded that the ghosts are not the brightest. At first everything is fine, but as night falls and darkness covers the land, the two manage to get lost. It takes a couple of extra hours to find their target and it is well past sunset – closer to midnight, really - when they finally arrive.
Observing from a safe distance Ida sees the ruins of some old buildings at the base of a large hill. And halfway up the hill is the 'hole in the ground' mentioned by the ghosts. It might be really be a mine...
There is a lone figure outside the suspected mine – a sentry, no doubt. However, the man is not taking his job seriously, sitting on the ground and barely paying attention to his surroundings. There's a spear on the ground next to him and a short sword on his belt.
With the sentry distracted it is easy for Ida and Eike to get closer undetected.
1d100 = 90
Looking around, searching for other sentries or any traps, Ida finds nothing. She feels certain that the man is the only obstacle. Clearly the bandits, or whatever they are, do not expect anyone to come here and do not consider it necessary to be more cautious – which makes things easier for her.
(Replies will be rather slow today, and possibly tomorrow too.)
Ida found Eikae's reaction interesting... but she did not have time to explore it now...
As the team made it to the camp, Ida found the entire thing little too easy... but, if they attacked without raising alarm, she might take down the entire camp without anyone noticing anything. She ordered wraith to sneak assassin the guard, while she and Ida were waiting as a backup - in case the man reacted, they would both join and kill him quickly.
After that was done, Ida would raise him as a Zombie and ask a few questions about his fellow bandits...
Upon her return to the Singing Maiden Arthuria is greeted by a blonde woman.
“Welcome to the Singing Maiden, ser! I am Patricia, the owner. I am sorry I could not greet you personally earlier, I was a little... occupied at the time.” She does not elaborate. “Please let me know if there's anything I can do for you.” The blonde tells her, then goes behind the bar. Vivian, the waitress she spoke to earlier, approaches her. “Welcome back, Ser Arthuria! Would you like something to eat or drink? Or will you be retiring for the night?”
Arthuria nods at Patricia. "Dont apologize, I am Your Guest afterall." As shes about to Go upstairs to her Room she hears Vivian approach and Talk to her.
The Blonde Knight nods. "Yeah...i think I Like something to eat and Drink, thank You" She moves over to one of The Tables in The Corner which has The whole Room in her View.
Komi wondered on some of the things she heard. Not much that she could go off, and if she had to guess the theory about some kind of monster in the river was likely caused by her in the first place, so it wasn't worth pursuing. She was a little taken aback by the suggestion of introducing a brothel to this community. What would...how....she had worked hard to avoid temptations like that, so she wasn't even sure where anyone would begin with somehow finding people willing to work there. On some level...she was mildly curious at exactly how many people would really visit such a place, but she couldn't imagine ever setting foot in one herself. Little of it really seemed like much, and none seemed to point to anyone else in this area even having the ability to begin to do something with her problems.
While she would need to pick up food to hold her over, she figured she would save that for last. But she assumed her first stop would be to the potion shop. It would be cheaper to just buy materials than whole elixirs and she was relatively sure she could handle doing it. She'd just need some medical herbs....as well as possibly some poisons. She had reasoned that in order to sustain herself, the best way to do it would be to grow her own food. She could use some poison for pests and pick up seeds to grow things like she had done in the temple before at one of these food stalls, she was sure. That also meant she would need to visit the general shop for some proper tools to help cultivate the earth. Being close by the river should mean the soil is healthy and water shouldn't be an issue.....she had it worked out. She still would need to look into more occult things, but she reasoned that perhaps it was better to see how much this would all require and then worry about the rest later now that she knew where they all were, possibly visiting that store meant to be opened later. Even after building a small garden to grow things, there were still other places she'd have to see.
The general store is currently closed, a sign informing her that the owner will be back in half an hour.
The potion store is rather small and is currently open. Inside she finds all sorts of potions and relate items, as can be expected. A busty woman is behind the counter, looking bored. A couple of young guys are in the shop, pretending to be looking for something to buy while not so subtly ogling the woman's tits.
“Welcome to Sensational Elixirs, miss. My name is Arissa, but you may call me Ari, if you prefer. Is there anything in particular you need, or are you just looking?” She... doesn't sound very happy to be there.
Ida found Eikae's reaction interesting... but she did not have time to explore it now...
As the team made it to the camp, Ida found the entire thing little too easy... but, if they attacked without raising alarm, she might take down the entire camp without anyone noticing anything. She ordered wraith to sneak assassin the guard, while she and Ida were waiting as a backup - in case the man reacted, they would both join and kill him quickly.
After that was done, Ida would raise him as a Zombie and ask a few questions about his fellow bandits...
The assassination goes without a hitch and the sentry dies without ever realizing the danger. Ida doesn't get the chance to celebrate, though, because something unexpected happens.
As the dead body falls down it suddenly bursts into flames, the wraith barely managing to pull away before it catches fire. In just a few seconds the bandit's body turns to ash... but the flames remain, taking the form of a large ball of fire, and shoot inside the mine, vanishing from sight. A few moments later shouts of alarm are heard from inside.
“Well, that's one way to make sure they don't get surprised...” Eike comments dryly.
There's more shouting from inside the mine. Ida can't quite make out the words, but soon she hears running footsteps, as if someone is rushing toward the entrance. She realizes she still has a few moments to set up an ambush.
Arthuria nods at Patricia. "Dont apologize, I am Your Guest afterall." As shes about to Go upstairs to her Room she hears Vivian approach and Talk to her.
The Blonde Knight nods. "Yeah...i think I Like something to eat and Drink, thank You" She moves over to one of The Tables in The Corner which has The whole Room in her View.
“Coming right!” Vivian assures her. Indeed, it doesn't take long for the busty waitress to return, bringing her a tankard of ale, some freshly-baked bread, some roasted meat, and some sort of vegetable stew. “Enjoy your food! Let me know if you would like more ale or if you need anything else from me!” Te energetic girl goes to cheat with one of the other waitresses, but remains close enough to come quickly if called.
Looking over the room Arthuria sees a number of people eating quietly, drinking, or just chatting with each other. No one is causing any trouble so far, perhaps because no one is drunk enough yet. A few local people take a look at her, curious about the new arrival, but let her eat in peace.
The general store is currently closed, a sign informing her that the owner will be back in half an hour.
The potion store is rather small and is currently open. Inside she finds all sorts of potions and relate items, as can be expected. A busty woman is behind the counter, looking bored. A couple of young guys are in the shop, pretending to be looking for something to buy while not so subtly ogling the woman's tits.
“Welcome to Sensational Elixirs, miss. My name is Arissa, but you may call me Ari, if you prefer. Is there anything in particular you need, or are you just looking?” She... doesn't sound very happy to be there.
1d100 = 50
Wraith's Stealth: +20
Total: 70
The assassination goes without a hitch and the sentry dies without ever realizing the danger. Ida doesn't get the chance to celebrate, though, because something unexpected happens.
As the dead body falls down it suddenly bursts into flames, the wraith barely managing to pull away before it catches fire. In just a few seconds the bandit's body turns to ash... but the flames remain, taking the form of a large ball of fire, and shoot inside the mine, vanishing from sight. A few moments later shouts of alarm are heard from inside.
“Well, that's one way to make sure they don't get surprised...” Eike comments dryly.
There's more shouting from inside the mine. Ida can't quite make out the words, but soon she hears running footsteps, as if someone is rushing toward the entrance. She realizes she still has a few moments to set up an ambush.
“Coming right!” Vivian assures her. Indeed, it doesn't take long for the busty waitress to return, bringing her a tankard of ale, some freshly-baked bread, some roasted meat, and some sort of vegetable stew. “Enjoy your food! Let me know if you would like more ale or if you need anything else from me!” Te energetic girl goes to cheat with one of the other waitresses, but remains close enough to come quickly if called.
Looking over the room Arthuria sees a number of people eating quietly, drinking, or just chatting with each other. No one is causing any trouble so far, perhaps because no one is drunk enough yet. A few local people take a look at her, curious about the new arrival, but let her eat in peace.
The Blonde Knights fills her Cup with Ale and thanks Vivian for The meal. She Starts to eat and Drink, leaving The other Guests to their Business. It was a Long Trip from The Capitol to here but it went smoothly so far. Its her First assignment that brings her to a Town this small, but shes glad that she was greeted friendly. Training The Guards tomorrow will be something refreshing since She was a Cityguard herself Years Prior and knows what their Training is lacking of.
The general store is currently closed, a sign informing her that the owner will be back in half an hour.
The potion store is rather small and is currently open. Inside she finds all sorts of potions and relate items, as can be expected. A busty woman is behind the counter, looking bored. A couple of young guys are in the shop, pretending to be looking for something to buy while not so subtly ogling the woman's tits.
“Welcome to Sensational Elixirs, miss. My name is Arissa, but you may call me Ari, if you prefer. Is there anything in particular you need, or are you just looking?” She... doesn't sound very happy to be there.
1d100 = 50
Wraith's Stealth: +20
Total: 70
The assassination goes without a hitch and the sentry dies without ever realizing the danger. Ida doesn't get the chance to celebrate, though, because something unexpected happens.
As the dead body falls down it suddenly bursts into flames, the wraith barely managing to pull away before it catches fire. In just a few seconds the bandit's body turns to ash... but the flames remain, taking the form of a large ball of fire, and shoot inside the mine, vanishing from sight. A few moments later shouts of alarm are heard from inside.
“Well, that's one way to make sure they don't get surprised...” Eike comments dryly.
There's more shouting from inside the mine. Ida can't quite make out the words, but soon she hears running footsteps, as if someone is rushing toward the entrance. She realizes she still has a few moments to set up an ambush.
“Coming right!” Vivian assures her. Indeed, it doesn't take long for the busty waitress to return, bringing her a tankard of ale, some freshly-baked bread, some roasted meat, and some sort of vegetable stew. “Enjoy your food! Let me know if you would like more ale or if you need anything else from me!” Te energetic girl goes to cheat with one of the other waitresses, but remains close enough to come quickly if called.
Looking over the room Arthuria sees a number of people eating quietly, drinking, or just chatting with each other. No one is causing any trouble so far, perhaps because no one is drunk enough yet. A few local people take a look at her, curious about the new arrival, but let her eat in peace.
"Wraith." She turned to command her undead. "Stay out of site and go inside, passing the attackers. Find the mage and kill her or him. Assassinate them - don't get into combat. Once that is done, start killing the other attackers. Ghosts! I want you to watch our backs and warn us if someone tries to attack us from behind." Power started gathering in her hands as concentrated, her face illuminated by green energy. "Eike - set necromantic field over the entrance - anything that passes it, dies or walks out weakened." over Ida's hands two skulls surrounded by fire appeared - necromancers substitute for fireballs.
"Let me show them, what Ecreghana The Reviver can do~" She chuckled as she threw the fireballs into the entrance, even if they didn't hit anything they would explode with fire once near the living.
The plan was simple, as long as they could keep the enemies in the entrance, they would control the battle. The entrance was a chokepoint.
Sighing, Mylea swallows a flare of irritation, as she raises her hands to enchant the vines once more and coil them around the beast's throat, adding some crushing pressure this time.
The beast seems to realize what she is trying to do, but there's no way for it to stop her or aviod the spell. More vines coil around it, holding it in place. Some coil around its throat and neck, preventing it from using its breath, at least for now.
This time her companions do not rush to attack, choosing to take proper aim instead.
Suddenly a familiar blonde elf rushes out of the woods and charges the beast...
Avella couldn't hold herself on thought of ridiculus scenario in which would happen by her jerk brother. She tried to remind herself that he is still her halfbrother, as paladin of Everlight she should be forgivefull and mercifull, but after all these meeting with him, it was nice thought that perfect asshole would fall in something like this. Well, except of forcing him to march naked. That fate Avella fear most and didn't wish it to her worst enemy to happen such thing.
"Ewen if it would be so funny for me, ha, ha" She said on thought of her brother.
Finally, she finded her goal and seen for first time wolf-like beast, fighting against group of hunters. Elf calm down her breath, taking off her back shield and getting ready her sword, blessing it with pray to Everlight.
"Holy Sarenrae, please bless my blade to strike evil with divinity power, support my arms in fight and give my shield your protection." She whisper pray and then go with her sword to attack beast back limbs. She know about lumbers piercing wolf heart, so maybe is she managed to cut off his limbs, they will be able to take monster in captivyty and learn what it is. The best option would be cutting it head off, by from her position it would be better to use element of surprise.
As soon s she finishes her prayer Avella;s sword starts glowing with a faint golden light – enough to show her spell was successful, but not enough to give her presence away.
The beast never notices the approaching danger until it is too late. Her strike doesn't quite manage to cut the beast's legs, but it heavily wounds both, causing severe bleeding as a bonus.
Suddenly the golden glow shoots from her blade and into the wounds she just caused. For a brief moment the beast's entire body glows with golden light, then it lets out a pitiful whine and falls down, no longer moving or breathing.
Silence descends upon the woods as the beast dies. A second passes, then another... then there's a flash of blue light coming from Mylea's pouch and the beast's eyes open, glowing with matching blue light.
With strength that is clearly unnatural even compared to its previous feats the horned beast manages to break free from the vines holding it and turns around to gaze upon the new threat, growling threateningly.
After taking a quick look at Avella it turns round to look at Mylea and her companions, then turns again to look at the elf, then again to look at Mylea and co... and with every turn the beast moves a bit to the right, as if realizing that being surrounded on two sides is bad for it.
The beast seems to realize what she is trying to do, but there's no way for it to stop her or aviod the spell. More vines coil around it, holding it in place. Some coil around its throat and neck, preventing it from using its breath, at least for now.
This time her companions do not rush to attack, choosing to take proper aim instead.
Suddenly a familiar blonde elf rushes out of the woods and charges the beast...
1d100 = 64
Divine Magic: +20
Total: 84
As soon s she finishes her prayer Avella;s sword starts glowing with a faint golden light – enough to show her spell was successful, but not enough to give her presence away.
The beast never notices the approaching danger until it is too late. Her strike doesn't quite manage to cut the beast's legs, but it heavily wounds both, causing severe bleeding as a bonus.
Suddenly the golden glow shoots from her blade and into the wounds she just caused. For a brief moment the beast's entire body glows with golden light, then it lets out a pitiful whine and falls down, no longer moving or breathing.
Silence descends upon the woods as the beast dies. A second passes, then another... then there's a flash of blue light coming from Mylea's pouch and the beast's eyes open, glowing with matching blue light.
With strength that is clearly unnatural even compared to its previous feats the horned beast manages to break free from the vines holding it and turns around to gaze upon the new threat, growling threateningly.
After taking a quick look at Avella it turns round to look at Mylea and her companions, then turns again to look at the elf, then again to look at Mylea and co... and with every turn the beast moves a bit to the right, as if realizing that being surrounded on two sides is bad for it.
@Regin34
Realising that the vines can only delay the wolf, not destroy it, Mylea changes strategies. "Here! I think this is the source of the beast!" She pulls a blue stone from her pocket. "Hold it off while I figure out how to use it!" Putting Avella, Jonas and Galza between herself and the wolf, Mylea tries again to decipher the journal she found - focusing only on recent entries, and any pages that look worn from being turned to often.
The beast seems to realize what she is trying to do, but there's no way for it to stop her or aviod the spell. More vines coil around it, holding it in place. Some coil around its throat and neck, preventing it from using its breath, at least for now.
This time her companions do not rush to attack, choosing to take proper aim instead.
Suddenly a familiar blonde elf rushes out of the woods and charges the beast...
1d100 = 64
Divine Magic: +20
Total: 84
As soon s she finishes her prayer Avella;s sword starts glowing with a faint golden light – enough to show her spell was successful, but not enough to give her presence away.
The beast never notices the approaching danger until it is too late. Her strike doesn't quite manage to cut the beast's legs, but it heavily wounds both, causing severe bleeding as a bonus.
Suddenly the golden glow shoots from her blade and into the wounds she just caused. For a brief moment the beast's entire body glows with golden light, then it lets out a pitiful whine and falls down, no longer moving or breathing.
Silence descends upon the woods as the beast dies. A second passes, then another... then there's a flash of blue light coming from Mylea's pouch and the beast's eyes open, glowing with matching blue light.
With strength that is clearly unnatural even compared to its previous feats the horned beast manages to break free from the vines holding it and turns around to gaze upon the new threat, growling threateningly.
After taking a quick look at Avella it turns round to look at Mylea and her companions, then turns again to look at the elf, then again to look at Mylea and co... and with every turn the beast moves a bit to the right, as if realizing that being surrounded on two sides is bad for it.
@Regin34
Realising that the vines can only delay the wolf, not destroy it, Mylea changes strategies. "Here! I think this is the source of the beast!" She pulls a blue stone from her pocket. "Hold it off while I figure out how to use it!" Putting Avella, Jonas and Galza between herself and the wolf, Mylea tries again to decipher the journal she found - focusing only on recent entries, and any pages that look worn from being turned to often.
Avella never seen such magic to heal so quickly wounds made by blade with divine blessing. She wasn't sure what to do next, since they didn't figure out how to block this magic. Then, Mylea call to them her plan and everything was clear. Avella is paladin, and her job is to keep safe magic users. Yes, that she can do.
"Come coward, run away from Everlight's messenger! Such pathetic creature as you is born to only that, always running away!" She shout to beast, tried to prove it to make attack on on her, using her shield to bash as protection before herself and in the same time blocking way out beast as it tried to move in the right.
"Wraith." She turned to command her undead. "Stay out of site and go inside, passing the attackers. Find the mage and kill her or him. Assassinate them - don't get into combat. Once that is done, start killing the other attackers. Ghosts! I want you to watch our backs and warn us if someone tries to attack us from behind." Power started gathering in her hands as concentrated, her face illuminated by green energy. "Eike - set necromantic field over the entrance - anything that passes it, dies or walks out weakened." over Ida's hands two skulls surrounded by fire appeared - necromancers substitute for fireballs.
"Let me show them, what Ecreghana The Reviver can do~" She chuckled as she threw the fireballs into the entrance, even if they didn't hit anything they would explode with fire once near the living.
The plan was simple, as long as they could keep the enemies in the entrance, they would control the battle. The entrance was a chokepoint.
Both women are just a little too slow. Before they can finish their spells a rugged-looking bearded man holding a sword rushes out of the mine, followed by two more moments later, both holding small axes and wooden shields. They all stop as they try to get used to the darkness – apparently in their haste they did not bring torches or any other light source... They never get the chance as Ida finishes her spell, the skulls exploding in the middle of the group, killing them instantly.
To her disappointment and annoyance these bodies also burst into flames and are quickly reduced to ashes, then the three fireballs shoot inside the mine, same as the first.
More shouting can be heard from inside, and then more footsteps - another group seems to be approaching. There's a surprise waiting for this group, though, as Eike finishes her spell. The barely noticeable necromantic field spans the whole length of the entrance, so no one can leave without passing through it.
So far there's no indication that her Wraith has found its target. On the plus side her ghosts are also quiet, having seen nothing.
@Regin34
Realising that the vines can only delay the wolf, not destroy it, Mylea changes strategies. "Here! I think this is the source of the beast!" She pulls a blue stone from her pocket. "Hold it off while I figure out how to use it!" Putting Avella, Jonas and Galza between herself and the wolf, Mylea tries again to decipher the journal she found - focusing only on recent entries, and any pages that look worn from being turned to often.
Despite her efforts Mylea is unable to decipher the journal, the letter continuing to move in confusing patters. All she manages to read are a few words in one of the most recent entries: ...the crystal... well-hidden... safe...
She's not sure what to make of it, though she remembers that the crystal was buried when the ground when she found it...
Avella never seen such magic to heal so quickly wounds made by blade with divine blessing. She wasn't sure what to do next, since they didn't figure out how to block this magic. Then, Mylea call to them her plan and everything was clear. Avella is paladin, and her job is to keep safe magic users. Yes, that she can do.
"Come coward, run away from Everlight's messenger! Such pathetic creature as you is born to only that, always running away!" She shout to beast, tried to prove it to make attack on on her, using her shield to bash as protection before herself and in the same time blocking way out beast as it tried to move in the right.
The beast growls at her and bares its fangs, but continues to retreat, not taking the bait as it continues to move its gaze from her to Mylea and then back to her.
Both women are just a little too slow. Before they can finish their spells a rugged-looking bearded man holding a sword rushes out of the mine, followed by two more moments later, both holding small axes and wooden shields. They all stop as they try to get used to the darkness – apparently in their haste they did not bring torches or any other light source... They never get the chance as Ida finishes her spell, the skulls exploding in the middle of the group, killing them instantly.
To her disappointment and annoyance these bodies also burst into flames and are quickly reduced to ashes, then the three fireballs shoot inside the mine, same as the first.
More shouting can be heard from inside, and then more footsteps - another group seems to be approaching. There's a surprise waiting for this group, though, as Eike finishes her spell. The barely noticeable necromantic field spans the whole length of the entrance, so no one can leave without passing through it.
So far there's no indication that her Wraith has found its target. On the plus side her ghosts are also quiet, having seen nothing.
1d100 = 20
Previous attempt: +10
Total: 30
Despite her efforts Mylea is unable to decipher the journal, the letter continuing to move in confusing patters. All she manages to read are a few words in one of the most recent entries: ...the crystal... well-hidden... safe...
She's not sure what to make of it, though she remembers that the crystal was buried when the ground when she found it...
The beast growls at her and bares its fangs, but continues to retreat, not taking the bait as it continues to move its gaze from her to Mylea and then back to her.
