One of the maids he spoke to yesterday is waiting for him, smiling. “Looks like you were quite successful in persuading miss Lusserina! Great job, you have our thanks!” She informs him, sounding quite happy. “Sadly, this changes nothing – we still can't discuss out guests with other people... Sorry.” She shrugs. Without another word she heads back inside.
As the maid leaves two other maids standing near by start talking... and their conversation just happens to be bout whether or not one of their customers will open a brothel. The woman in question is currently having breakfast alone at a table near the stairs up.
“Ah, that!” The woman smiles happily at him. “I was hoping someone would be willing to help! Don't worry, you won't have to make any potions.” The woman reassures him. “No, I just need someone to collect a few herbs for me. They can be found in the forest on the other side of the river, south of the lumber camp. Normally my eldest daughter Elena gets me the herbs I need, but... Well, as you have probably heard there was some sort of monster wolf attacking the woodcutters. My daughter was worried it might attack her too, so she took a different, longer path, heading south and then across the river, to collect herbs in the southern parts of the forest. She should be back in a day or two, but the problem is, I am already out of certain herbs. Fortunately I heard the wolf has been dealt with. If you could go and collect them for me I will pay you.” She gives him a hopeful look.
“I'll go first!” The busty elf steps up. “My name is Enania. It's a pleasure to meet you, miss.” She gives Lydia a flirty smile before turning to take aim at the target. The other recruits move out of the way and watch her take the five shots.
As it turns out Enania is pretty good, though not as good as Lydia, of course. All five of her arrows hit the target, three close tot he center and two near the edge.
One by one all the other recruits take their turn, usually hitting three or four times and missing once or twice. Last is the guy that would rather stare at women's butts. His shots are slow, but he still manages to hit the target three times and almost hit it the other two.
Once everyone has had a turn shooting at a target the recruits gather in front of her and wait to hear what she will demand next.
Captain Garlan is happy to see her, but doesn't have much to tell her. “An elven mercenary arrived in the village yesterday, shortly after sunset. His name is... Lathrul... Lathril... something like that. He too claims to have seen trees moving in the distance, though at a different place than the ones you saw. You could try speaking to him, if you want. Other than that there have been no news about the strange trees, or anything else of note. I'll have someone inform you if we learn anything useful.” He promises.
1d100 = 7
Further observation reveals little of use. Both camps have guards that keep watch for anyone approaching, making it too risky to get closer. She sees some movement in the ruins, but it is too far to make anything out.
1d100 = 69
Eventually Ida gets a lucky break of sorts, when Eike spots something on the forest floor. It turns out to be the half-frozen body of a human male, though the ice is already melting. The corpse is no more than a few hours old. The man is wearing leather armor and holding a short sword in one hand, but neither helped him against the spell that killed him. At first glance the victim appears to be a bandit, and not affiliated with either of the two groups they have discovered so far. It's impossible to tell if he was alone, or a part of a third group living in the ruins.
Edward lets out several low moans, apparently enjoying what she's doing. A louder moan follows when she takes more of his cock inside her throat. “Damn! She might... be better than you, dear!” He lets out with some difficulty and starts fondling her tits with both hands.
Victoria does not reply, instead focusing on fucking Mylea's pussy with her tongue. She follows that up by forcing a finger inside the priestess' back door, stimulating both holes at the same time.
Mylea grins internally at Edward's praise of her abilities, as Victoria's touch drives her crazy. Though she has admirable restraint, Mylea can only take so much, and soon Victoria sees her lover's large chest growing flushed, as orgasm overtakes her. The green haired minx slides her head down Edward's cock, taking him to the hilt, muffled moans sounding against him as she cries out in ecstasy, her nose rubbing against his pelvis.
"Hoho." Anton grins, seeing through the maid's act, mostly cause it is what they said they'll do yesterday. He discreetly follows her, listening to their conversation, but as they mention how the soon to be brothel owner was a woman. His grin widens, thanking the girls, he immediately goes to check on who exactly is his would be accomplice.
Avella listen to capitan news, it wasn't too much, but at least it is proof that treat is serious.
"Thank you capitan, I will speak with that mercenary Lathril. Did he tell you where you can find him?" Avella asked and leave barracks thinking if she should go to Marda, to speak with that elf. But, it would be faster if Avella will meet him first, and then they both go to lumber camp for druid. So, paladin go to Marika
“He mentioned something about buying supplies, so try the market, I guess. Even if he is not there people might remember him if you ask around.” Garlan tells her before going back to his work.
1d100 = 44
The walk to the market is quick and uneventful, but once there Avella has no luck spotting the elven mercenary anywhere. She could ask around and hope that someone has seen the man in question, or she could try guessing where he might have gone: a bakery to buy food, the general store to buy supplies, potion store to buy potions, somewhere else...
"Eike, take wright and guard the premises. I will be raising this bandit." Ida said as she stood over the body. Slowly, wisps of green energy started raising in her hand.
"Come, my new zombie~" She said with a smile, green ergy started surrounding the body. "Time to rise and tell me what you know about the forces gathered here~"
She chuckled as she raised the dead man as a zombie.
Soon the man is standing up once more, the ice having fully melted off. He looks around, confused, apparently having some trouble comprehending what is going on. Finally he looks at Ida. “Mistress?” He asks hesitantly.
Lydia smiles back. "Good on you for bein' decisive, Enania. Let's see it."
----------
"You seem to know how to hold a bow at least. That's good." Lydia clears her throat as she speaks to the small crowd. "Archery is all about perfect repetition. That means that if you do everythin' exactly the same for every arrow you shoot, you'll get the same result for each of 'em. Above all else, you want your form to be simple, clean, and easy to repeat. If you manage that, you can adjust your aim to hit most targets once you're familiar with how your loosin' style affects your arrows. That means that you lot need to practice until every single shot feels as natural as drinkin' and fuckin'. We'll stay at this distance for today since everyone can hit it. I need all of you to line up and shoot at your lane's middle ranged target! Focus more on your form and how you loose an arrow than on anythin' else." She gives a pointed look at the man who seems disinterested in anything except asses. "I'll be walkin' along and makin' tweaks as I see they're needed."
The recruits line up and start practicing. Again Enania shows she is the best of the bunch, reliably hitting with each shot. Occasionally she tries flirting with the other recruits or teasing them, but that does not affect her performance. The guy too focuses and does a decent job, hitting most of his shots and coming very close on the rest, though between shots he not-so-subtly ogles the women, Lydia included. The rest of the recruits carry out their task without objection, doing their best and gradually starting to miss fewer and fewer shots.
Mylea grins internally at Edward's praise of her abilities, as Victoria's touch drives her crazy. Though she has admirable restraint, Mylea can only take so much, and soon Victoria sees her lover's large chest growing flushed, as orgasm overtakes her. The green haired minx slides her head down Edward's cock, taking him to the hilt, muffled moans sounding against him as she cries out in ecstasy, her nose rubbing against his pelvis.
Edward lasts a little longer before cumming as well, then grabs her head and holds her in place as he starts shooting thick cum down the half-dryad's throat.
Meanwhile Victoria swallows as much of Mylea's juices as she can. “Mmm, so tasty!” She comments where there's no more to be had. Her fingers continue to fuck the priestess' ass.
His gaze quickly finds the woman, currently sitting alone at a table and finishing her breakfast. She seems to have not noticed him yet. View attachment 5316
Seeing his would be "partner" in all sense of the word, Anton grins as he approaches. "Excuse me, my lady. I couldn't help but overhear that you're one of the people aiming to build a brothel in this village. Is that correct?" He calls her out, speaking in a polite, yet wise tone. While discreetly eyeing her body, taking in her wonderful curves, and sensual outfit.
His gaze quickly finds the woman, currently sitting alone at a table and finishing her breakfast. She seems to have not noticed him yet. View attachment 5316
“He mentioned something about buying supplies, so try the market, I guess. Even if he is not there people might remember him if you ask around.” Garlan tells her before going back to his work.
1d100 = 44
The walk to the market is quick and uneventful, but once there Avella has no luck spotting the elven mercenary anywhere. She could ask around and hope that someone has seen the man in question, or she could try guessing where he might have gone: a bakery to buy food, the general store to buy supplies, potion store to buy potions, somewhere else...
Soon the man is standing up once more, the ice having fully melted off. He looks around, confused, apparently having some trouble comprehending what is going on. Finally he looks at Ida. “Mistress?” He asks hesitantly.
The recruits line up and start practicing. Again Enania shows she is the best of the bunch, reliably hitting with each shot. Occasionally she tries flirting with the other recruits or teasing them, but that does not affect her performance. The guy too focuses and does a decent job, hitting most of his shots and coming very close on the rest, though between shots he not-so-subtly ogles the women, Lydia included. The rest of the recruits carry out their task without objection, doing their best and gradually starting to miss fewer and fewer shots.
Edward lasts a little longer before cumming as well, then grabs her head and holds her in place as he starts shooting thick cum down the half-dryad's throat.
Meanwhile Victoria swallows as much of Mylea's juices as she can. “Mmm, so tasty!” She comments where there's no more to be had. Her fingers continue to fuck the priestess' ass.
Avella looked around the market, put her hand on handpiece of her sword attached to belt. It was getting more crowded than she expected, so she should be able to find him if she ask someone people around.
"Good morning, did you seen somewhere elf mercenary men?" She asked some random citizens, remember to be wary of pocketthiefs.
Seeing his would be "partner" in all sense of the word, Anton grins as he approaches. "Excuse me, my lady. I couldn't help but overhear that you're one of the people aiming to build a brothel in this village. Is that correct?" He calls her out, speaking in a polite, yet wise tone. While discreetly eyeing her body, taking in her wonderful curves, and sensual outfit.
“How rude! You could at least introduce yourself before starting to question me! Or did you forget your manners due to your old age?” The woman looks at him briefly and then goes back to finishing her breakfast.
Avella looked around the market, put her hand on handpiece of her sword attached to belt. It was getting more crowded than she expected, so she should be able to find him if she ask someone people around.
"Good morning, did you seen somewhere elf mercenary men?" She asked some random citizens, remember to be wary of pocketthiefs.
The first few people shake their heads 'no', but then she gets lucky. A few people recall seeing an elf headed to one of the bakeries, while a few other people mention seeing an elf enter the general store. Looks like those two locations are her best bet for finding the man.
“How rude! You could at least introduce yourself before starting to question me! Or did you forget your manners due to your old age?” The woman looks at him briefly and then goes back to finishing her breakfast.
1d100 = 60
The first few people shake their heads 'no', but then she gets lucky. A few people recall seeing an elf headed to one of the bakeries, while a few other people mention seeing an elf enter the general store. Looks like those two locations are her best bet for finding the man.
Avella decided to go first to general store.
"After all, ewen if I won't find him there, I could at least check what they have to offer, maybe something catch my eye." She said to hersellf as she go in direction of general store.
“How rude! You could at least introduce yourself before starting to question me! Or did you forget your manners due to your old age?” The woman looks at him briefly and then goes back to finishing her breakfast.
"Hohoho, forgive me, you're right, where are my manners." Anton chuckles, giving an elegant bow, one that's usually used to greet nobles. "I am the humble old man, Anton, and if what I heard was correct, I would like to invest in your business venture. Either with funds, or with my skills." He grins.
Avella decided to go first to general store.
"After all, ewen if I won't find him there, I could at least check what they have to offer, maybe something catch my eye." She said to hersellf as she go in direction of general store.
"Hohoho, forgive me, you're right, where are my manners." Anton chuckles, giving an elegant bow, one that's usually used to greet nobles. "I am the humble old man, Anton, and if what I heard was correct, I would like to invest in your business venture. Either with funds, or with my skills." He grins.
The woman looks at him again, this time for longer than a few moments. “Nice to meet you, Old Pervert Anton. Please, do not try to insult my intelligence by denying it – I have seen enough perverts.” She cuts off any attempt at protesting the accusation. “My name is Amelia. I am not convinced that you would be of any help to me, but I am willing to give you a chance.” She tells him as she quickly finishes her meal and drink. “How about we talk in my room? Just don't get any perverted ideas...”
The woman looks at him again, this time for longer than a few moments. “Nice to meet you, Old Pervert Anton. Please, do not try to insult my intelligence by denying it – I have seen enough perverts.” She cuts off any attempt at protesting the accusation. “My name is Amelia. I am not convinced that you would be of any help to me, but I am willing to give you a chance.” She tells him as she quickly finishes her meal and drink. “How about we talk in my room? Just don't get any perverted ideas...”
"Now wouldn't it be odd if a non-perverted old man approached you to talk about your plans of building a brothel?" Anton replied having no intention of denying his perversion. "Hoho. I may not have the connections I had back in the capital, but I can still be quite useful." He replied with a grin, following Amelia back to her room, his eyes watching her swaying hips, trying to get a peek at her undergarments every time the flap of her dress fluttered.
Walking through the door Avella finds herself in a rather cramped shop full of all sorts of items. An orc is standing behind the counter.
“Ah, a new customer! Welcome, welcome! How may I help you, miss? Looking for anything in particular, or just browsing?” He asks as he looks her over.
There are a few other customers already there and one of them catches Avella's attention. View attachment 5318
This elf could be the mercenary she is looking for...
The woman looks at him again, this time for longer than a few moments. “Nice to meet you, Old Pervert Anton. Please, do not try to insult my intelligence by denying it – I have seen enough perverts.” She cuts off any attempt at protesting the accusation. “My name is Amelia. I am not convinced that you would be of any help to me, but I am willing to give you a chance.” She tells him as she quickly finishes her meal and drink. “How about we talk in my room? Just don't get any perverted ideas...”
Avella shake her head.
"No, thank you I just arrived to village few days ago and I wanted to check on locals store to get more info." She said to orc and look around the shop, finding men who fits into capitan description. Except short beard, which could mean he is half elf, not full elf, because elfs didn't have hair on face. She go to mercenary.
" Hello, are you mercenary Lathrin? You meet with capitan of guards yesterday, right?" She asked polite.
The recruits line up and start practicing. Again Enania shows she is the best of the bunch, reliably hitting with each shot. Occasionally she tries flirting with the other recruits or teasing them, but that does not affect her performance. The guy too focuses and does a decent job, hitting most of his shots and coming very close on the rest, though between shots he not-so-subtly ogles the women, Lydia included. The rest of the recruits carry out their task without objection, doing their best and gradually starting to miss fewer and fewer shots.
Lydia walks up and down the line behind the recruits, making small changes to improve the prospective guards' accuracy. She teaches one how to avoid overdrawing the string, she tells another that their release is too inconsistent and shows them how to fix it, etc. Enania has little to fix, and Lydia has to suppress some laughter at her obvious antics. The staring man seems to be one of the worst of the bunch, so Lydia spends more time trying to work on his shooting. He presumably pays more attention to her body than her words, but Lydia isn't bothered as long as he improves. I can win him over pretty easy if I ever need to, eh? Probably applies to that elf woman too.
She has the recruits shooting for the majority of the rest of their practice time, letting them have breaks for water and rest between ends. If anyone complains about being tired or sore without actually bearing an injury, Lydia answers with "Good! Means you need to keep goin' so you get tougher and stronger!" As their four hours wind down to a close, Lydia will have the recruits gather up again and speak to them with genuine praise. "You lot did well this mornin'! I saw a hell of a lot of improvement. Won't be long before none of you are missin' at that range. Most of you louses are gonna be right sore tomorrow, but I've got plenty of shit to teach you still. It won't be as demandin' as today, so don't go pissin' yourselves 'bout bein' worked too hard. Now go get your arrows from that last end!"
Soon the man is standing up once more, the ice having fully melted off. He looks around, confused, apparently having some trouble comprehending what is going on. Finally he looks at Ida. “Mistress?” He asks hesitantly.
"Well preserved." She commented as she looked him over. "Tell me..." She addressed him. "Who are you, how you got here, and what you know of the situation in the forest." She commanded.
"Now wouldn't it be odd if a non-perverted old man approached you to talk about your plans of building a brothel?" Anton replied having no intention of denying his perversion. "Hoho. I may not have the connections I had back in the capital, but I can still be quite useful." He replied with a grin, following Amelia back to her room, his eyes watching her swaying hips, trying to get a peek at her undergarments every time the flap of her dress fluttered.
As he follows Amelia to her room the old man gets his first look of the upper floor of the inn. The floor is covered by a soft and clearly expensive carpet and there are glowing spell orbs on the walls, providing light at all times.
Amelia's room is twice as big as the one Anton has at the Singing Maiden. The same expensive carpet as in the corridor covers the floor. There's a large double bed in the middle of the room, a large wardrobe, and various other things he does not get a good look at because Amelia sits down at a square table and points for him to do the same across from her. “Now, let us try again. Who are you and what do you want? Be specific.” She demands as her piercing eyes look at him.
Avella shake her head.
"No, thank you I just arrived to village few days ago and I wanted to check on locals store to get more info." She said to orc and look around the shop, finding men who fits into capitan description. Except short beard, which could mean he is half elf, not full elf, because elfs didn't have hair on face. She go to mercenary.
" Hello, are you mercenary Lathrin? You meet with capitan of guards yesterday, right?" She asked polite.
The elf gives her a curious look. “My name is Lathrul and yes, I did meet with the captain of the guards yesterday. What can I do for you, miss?” He asks as he looks her up and down, examining her.
Lydia walks up and down the line behind the recruits, making small changes to improve the prospective guards' accuracy. She teaches one how to avoid overdrawing the string, she tells another that their release is too inconsistent and shows them how to fix it, etc. Enania has little to fix, and Lydia has to suppress some laughter at her obvious antics. The staring man seems to be one of the worst of the bunch, so Lydia spends more time trying to work on his shooting. He presumably pays more attention to her body than her words, but Lydia isn't bothered as long as he improves. I can win him over pretty easy if I ever need to, eh? Probably applies to that elf woman too.
She has the recruits shooting for the majority of the rest of their practice time, letting them have breaks for water and rest between ends. If anyone complains about being tired or sore without actually bearing an injury, Lydia answers with "Good! Means you need to keep goin' so you get tougher and stronger!" As their four hours wind down to a close, Lydia will have the recruits gather up again and speak to them with genuine praise. "You lot did well this mornin'! I saw a hell of a lot of improvement. Won't be long before none of you are missin' at that range. Most of you louses are gonna be right sore tomorrow, but I've got plenty of shit to teach you still. It won't be as demandin' as today, so don't go pissin' yourselves 'bout bein' worked too hard. Now go get your arrows from that last end!"
A few of the recruits attempt complaining about being exhausted, but quickly realize that sort of thing won't work on her and stop trying.
There is a little grumbling when they are sent to collect their arrows, but the recruits obey regardless. Most of them seem happy to finally be done with the lesson as they put the bows and arrows away.
Once that is taken care of everyone gathers in front of her and waits to be dismissed before wishing her a good day and going on their way.
"Well preserved." She commented as she looked him over. "Tell me..." She addressed him. "Who are you, how you got here, and what you know of the situation in the forest." She commanded.
“My name is John. I used to be a farmer, until the drought started. Then I joined a group of bandits.” The zombie begins. “We spent two years robbing people before we had to flee because there were too many guards chasing us. We came here, thinking that no one would come this far west, only to discover that other people had the same idea. They had even built a small village for themselves. But we were already here and the forest was big enough for everyone, so we just stayed away from the villagers and they stayed away from us. That's how I got here.” John explains. “As for the situation... it used to be just us and the villagers, plus some forest animals and a few undead elves wondering the ruins. A little over two yeas ago the cultists arrived and started searching for something in the ruins. They were hostile to anyone who approached them, so we stayed away from them. Then, a few months later, the elven necromancers arrived. They raised hundreds, if not thousands, of dead elves, gave them new weapons and armor, and set them to protect some parts of the ruins. At first there was some fighting between the cultists and the undead, but soon the robed bastards got the message and started avoiding the undead. Since then they've been watching each other while the rest of us try to stay out of the way, since there's no telling when one side will attack the other. That is all I know, mistress.”
1d100 = 35
“Mistress! Something is happening!” Eike interrupts the conversation. Looking at where her champion is pointing to Ida sees a group of at least a dozen undead elves headed her way, weapons drawn...
Suddenly a ball of sickly green light falls from above. Upon hitting Ida's shoulder it explodes, briefly covering the surrounding area in the same sickly green light. It leaves behind an unpleasant tingling on her skin, but she is otherwise unharmed. Her undead servants, on the other hand...
Eike is brought down to her knees, clearly weakened, and the wraith fares no better, looking like it's barely holding together. With a pained wail of despair her ghosts dissolve and vanish while her new zombie turns to ash. All the while the undead elves continue marching toward her...
As he follows Amelia to her room the old man gets his first look of the upper floor of the inn. The floor is covered by a soft and clearly expensive carpet and there are glowing spell orbs on the walls, providing light at all times.
Amelia's room is twice as big as the one Anton has at the Singing Maiden. The same expensive carpet as in the corridor covers the floor. There's a large double bed in the middle of the room, a large wardrobe, and various other things he does not get a good look at because Amelia sits down at a square table and points for him to do the same across from her. “Now, let us try again. Who are you and what do you want? Be specific.” She demands as her piercing eyes look at him.
Sadly, the inn's luxuries were lost to the old man. As his gaze was more focused on making out the details of Amelia's underwear, with every slight glimpse he caught of it. Along with his her ass sways with her every step.
Once they got to her room, the old man finally looks around as he makes his way to the offered seat. "As I said, I am Anton Orcus. Just a regular, perverted old man looking to spend his days away from the capital." He replied with a chuckle, "As for what I want, well, I've already found a few women that can sate my needs. But believe it or not, my libido hasn't dimished in my advanced age. So I doubt they can handle everything I've got." He grins as he brags about his sexual prowess. "So once I've heard rumors about you wanting to start a brothel. I was curious."
As he follows Amelia to her room the old man gets his first look of the upper floor of the inn. The floor is covered by a soft and clearly expensive carpet and there are glowing spell orbs on the walls, providing light at all times.
Amelia's room is twice as big as the one Anton has at the Singing Maiden. The same expensive carpet as in the corridor covers the floor. There's a large double bed in the middle of the room, a large wardrobe, and various other things he does not get a good look at because Amelia sits down at a square table and points for him to do the same across from her. “Now, let us try again. Who are you and what do you want? Be specific.” She demands as her piercing eyes look at him.
The elf gives her a curious look. “My name is Lathrul and yes, I did meet with the captain of the guards yesterday. What can I do for you, miss?” He asks as he looks her up and down, examining her.
A few of the recruits attempt complaining about being exhausted, but quickly realize that sort of thing won't work on her and stop trying.
There is a little grumbling when they are sent to collect their arrows, but the recruits obey regardless. Most of them seem happy to finally be done with the lesson as they put the bows and arrows away.
Once that is taken care of everyone gathers in front of her and waits to be dismissed before wishing her a good day and going on their way.
“My name is John. I used to be a farmer, until the drought started. Then I joined a group of bandits.” The zombie begins. “We spent two years robbing people before we had to flee because there were too many guards chasing us. We came here, thinking that no one would come this far west, only to discover that other people had the same idea. They had even built a small village for themselves. But we were already here and the forest was big enough for everyone, so we just stayed away from the villagers and they stayed away from us. That's how I got here.” John explains. “As for the situation... it used to be just us and the villagers, plus some forest animals and a few undead elves wondering the ruins. A little over two yeas ago the cultists arrived and started searching for something in the ruins. They were hostile to anyone who approached them, so we stayed away from them. Then, a few months later, the elven necromancers arrived. They raised hundreds, if not thousands, of dead elves, gave them new weapons and armor, and set them to protect some parts of the ruins. At first there was some fighting between the cultists and the undead, but soon the robed bastards got the message and started avoiding the undead. Since then they've been watching each other while the rest of us try to stay out of the way, since there's no telling when one side will attack the other. That is all I know, mistress.”
1d100 = 35
“Mistress! Something is happening!” Eike interrupts the conversation. Looking at where her champion is pointing to Ida sees a group of at least a dozen undead elves headed her way, weapons drawn...
Suddenly a ball of sickly green light falls from above. Upon hitting Ida's shoulder it explodes, briefly covering the surrounding area in the same sickly green light. It leaves behind an unpleasant tingling on her skin, but she is otherwise unharmed. Her undead servants, on the other hand...
Eike is brought down to her knees, clearly weakened, and the wraith fares no better, looking like it's barely holding together. With a pained wail of despair her ghosts dissolve and vanish while her new zombie turns to ash. All the while the undead elves continue marching toward her...
She nods to him.
"Well Lathrul, my name is Avella of Everlight order and it is nice to meet you. I heard that you seen walking trees on south of the village. In the same day, I and my companion investigate similar trees on the north side of the village and I want to share our information with you, to get know more about them. They didn't see as the treat to Marika for now, but we can't be sure. "She explained, making relaxed poze but in the same time being in ready to fight.
“Ah, that!” The woman smiles happily at him. “I was hoping someone would be willing to help! Don't worry, you won't have to make any potions.” The woman reassures him. “No, I just need someone to collect a few herbs for me. They can be found in the forest on the other side of the river, south of the lumber camp. Normally my eldest daughter Elena gets me the herbs I need, but... Well, as you have probably heard there was some sort of monster wolf attacking the woodcutters. My daughter was worried it might attack her too, so she took a different, longer path, heading south and then across the river, to collect herbs in the southern parts of the forest. She should be back in a day or two, but the problem is, I am already out of certain herbs. Fortunately I heard the wolf has been dealt with. If you could go and collect them for me I will pay you.” She gives him a hopeful look.
"Well, that certainly sounds straightforward enough, but I have to ask before I get going. "Whats my reward? Don't get me wrong, a task like this I don't expect much, but I'm sure you can understand my desire to get that worked out before I leave...."
A few of the recruits attempt complaining about being exhausted, but quickly realize that sort of thing won't work on her and stop trying.
There is a little grumbling when they are sent to collect their arrows, but the recruits obey regardless. Most of them seem happy to finally be done with the lesson as they put the bows and arrows away.
Once that is taken care of everyone gathers in front of her and waits to be dismissed before wishing her a good day and going on their way.
"Go and get some rest, all of you." Lydia goes to the firing line herself to get a little practice in while she thinks. That wasn't as hard as I was expectin', eh? I probably should go easy on 'em tomorrow. Can't have 'em hatin' me already. She removes the bronzed bow from her shoulder, nocks an arrow, and aims downrange. Maybe I oughta come up with some sorta reward to encourage 'em? She draws the string back and the weapon seems to react. The string becomes a thin, bronze chain coiling up and around Lydia's arm while the arrow remains magically suspended in the air. Right, so tomorrow I'll cover maintainin' their bows and have 'em do a little shootin', maybe half an hour, so they get more used to doin' it every day. She releases her grip on the arrow, and the projectile flies as though it was launched from any normal bow. Now what would make a good reward... She absent-mindedly readies another arrow from her quiver. How 'bout this? The one who shoots best on the day after tomorrow will have the chance to test their skill against me. She draws. The winner gets to order the loser around for a few hours. She fires. Or, if they're too craven, they'll just get to leave early or somethin'. Lydia grins widely as she pulls a third arrow from behind her shoulder. I like that idea.
She continues like this for an hour or so before deciding to ask the guards about her pay for the lesson.
“My name is John. I used to be a farmer, until the drought started. Then I joined a group of bandits.” The zombie begins. “We spent two years robbing people before we had to flee because there were too many guards chasing us. We came here, thinking that no one would come this far west, only to discover that other people had the same idea. They had even built a small village for themselves. But we were already here and the forest was big enough for everyone, so we just stayed away from the villagers and they stayed away from us. That's how I got here.” John explains. “As for the situation... it used to be just us and the villagers, plus some forest animals and a few undead elves wondering the ruins. A little over two yeas ago the cultists arrived and started searching for something in the ruins. They were hostile to anyone who approached them, so we stayed away from them. Then, a few months later, the elven necromancers arrived. They raised hundreds, if not thousands, of dead elves, gave them new weapons and armor, and set them to protect some parts of the ruins. At first there was some fighting between the cultists and the undead, but soon the robed bastards got the message and started avoiding the undead. Since then they've been watching each other while the rest of us try to stay out of the way, since there's no telling when one side will attack the other. That is all I know, mistress.”
1d100 = 35
“Mistress! Something is happening!” Eike interrupts the conversation. Looking at where her champion is pointing to Ida sees a group of at least a dozen undead elves headed her way, weapons drawn...
Suddenly a ball of sickly green light falls from above. Upon hitting Ida's shoulder it explodes, briefly covering the surrounding area in the same sickly green light. It leaves behind an unpleasant tingling on her skin, but she is otherwise unharmed. Her undead servants, on the other hand...
Eike is brought down to her knees, clearly weakened, and the wraith fares no better, looking like it's barely holding together. With a pained wail of despair her ghosts dissolve and vanish while her new zombie turns to ash. All the while the undead elves continue marching toward her...
She cursed as her undead were destroyed - the necromancer targeted her undead specifically! Any thought of peaceful interaction was gone from her mind. She cast a deathball - death fire consuming the flesh. Then she grabbed Eike and the two quickly made their way out of the forest - to the carriage. Ida had no wish to confront the powerhouse behind this army.
She witnessed destruction of her ghosts and zombie - but what about the wright?
His gaze quickly finds the woman, currently sitting alone at a table and finishing her breakfast. She seems to have not noticed him yet. View attachment 5316
“He mentioned something about buying supplies, so try the market, I guess. Even if he is not there people might remember him if you ask around.” Garlan tells her before going back to his work.
1d100 = 44
The walk to the market is quick and uneventful, but once there Avella has no luck spotting the elven mercenary anywhere. She could ask around and hope that someone has seen the man in question, or she could try guessing where he might have gone: a bakery to buy food, the general store to buy supplies, potion store to buy potions, somewhere else...
Soon the man is standing up once more, the ice having fully melted off. He looks around, confused, apparently having some trouble comprehending what is going on. Finally he looks at Ida. “Mistress?” He asks hesitantly.
The recruits line up and start practicing. Again Enania shows she is the best of the bunch, reliably hitting with each shot. Occasionally she tries flirting with the other recruits or teasing them, but that does not affect her performance. The guy too focuses and does a decent job, hitting most of his shots and coming very close on the rest, though between shots he not-so-subtly ogles the women, Lydia included. The rest of the recruits carry out their task without objection, doing their best and gradually starting to miss fewer and fewer shots.
Edward lasts a little longer before cumming as well, then grabs her head and holds her in place as he starts shooting thick cum down the half-dryad's throat.
Meanwhile Victoria swallows as much of Mylea's juices as she can. “Mmm, so tasty!” She comments where there's no more to be had. Her fingers continue to fuck the priestess' ass.
Mylea happily drinks down the lord's cum, enjoying Victoria's finger, before pulling away, scooting over on the bed so she can slip her arms around the blonde's neck and lean in for a steamy kiss, her tongue pressing forward against the lady's, trading both the flavor of Edward's seed as well as their combined juices. Finally, Mylea leans back, with a smirk. "You two... You're not looking to convert, are you? I think you'd both be very good at pleasing the Goddess." She gives a chuckle, only half joking.
The potion shop is rather small and full of various things: potions, vials, herbs, salves, wooden figurines... View attachment 5313
A blonde woman is standing behind the counter. “Welcome! How may I help you, sir?” She greets him as soon as he enters. “If you are looking for cheap potions or herbs you have come to the right place! Same if you are looking for something to buy as a souvenir.” She points at some wooden figurines that don't really fit with the rest of the shop's items. “And if you are looking for a carpenter... well my husband already went out, so it would be better for you to come back in the evening.” She finishes with a polite smile.
Avella is not disturbed on the way back to the inn.
1d100 = 79
Again Avella has a nice, restful sleep, and wakes up feeling refreshed, ready to face the new day and the challenges it may bring.
The inn is practically empty at this time of night, only a single waitress standing behind the counter in case a guest arrives later. Patricia is nowhere to be seen, likely already asleep, so he will have to receive his refund the next day.
1d100 = 61
Anton is not disturbed during the night and has a nice, restful sleep. He wakes up feeling refreshed, ready to face the new day and the challenges – especially the women - it may bring.
As she gets to work Edward lets out a moan of approval and reaches with one hand to fondle her large breasts. Meanwhile Victoria continues eating her out and teasing her clit. Her other hand goes to Mylea's back door and lightly presses against it.
“Alright...” Sara's blush intensifies as she looks at the paintings. “What do you want me to do?” It seems she has left the decision to Arthuria.
“For starters I want all of them able to reliably hit a stationary target. Then a moving target, then hitting a target while they are moving. After that you can worry about speed or distance.”
Garlan leads her out to the training field and to a group of twelve recruits – six men and six women. “Attention!” With a single word he forces every single one of them to listen to him. “This is Felicity Underhill. She will be teaching you how to correctly use a bow, so that you can actually hit your intended target and not shoot yourselves in the foot. So make sure you pay attention during the lessons!” He then turns to look at 'Felicity'. “They are all yours. Good luck!” And with that he turns around and heads back inside the barracks.
Now alone with the recruits 'Felicity' has a chance to examine them.
1d100 = 75
Deception: +20
Total: 95
At first glance most of them seem to be nothing special, just regular people of various races. Only two stand out a bit.
View attachment 5315
The first is a busty elf who seems more interested in teasing the other recruits and flirting with them. She also seems the most experienced of the bunch – perhaps she's not taking the training seriously because she thinks she's already good enough.
View attachment 5314
The other is a young man standing alone in the back, behind everyone else. He seems more interested in checking out the butts of the female recruits than in learning about archery. He does a good job of hiding it, but Lydia is not so easily deceived.
All twelve at least pretend to be paying attention to her, waiting for the training to start.
1d100 = 95
Ida spends some time observing from a safe distance and soon realizes that her initial assessment might not be entirely accurate. Rather than a confrontation this appears to be a mutual understanding – each side observes the other, but neither makes a move.
As she watches Ida sees two more cultists arrive. They chat a bit with the five that are there, then switch places with two of them. The two relieved from duty head deeper in the ruins and soon vanish from sight. The whole thing seems well rehearsed, as if they have done it many times before. The undead do not react, as if this sort of thing is normal.
As she continues to observe Ida notices something odd. While the undead elves seem ancient, their equipment is not. The necromancer is no expert, but as far as she can tell all of the undead's weapons and armor seem to be relatively new, no more than a few years old...
“What shall we do now? Do we go around, to see how big the ruins are, and possibly try to learn more about them? Or do we head back and report?” Eike, standing next to Ida, whispers, not wanting to risk attracting the attention of the ruins' inhabitants.
"Well...Im the proffecient one with The Sword. But maybe we find another way. I wont Force You to anything. We could leave The Tower behind Us If Thats what You want"
