Your adventures have brought you far to the north into Hyperborea, close to the edge of the Frozen Sea. This region was the home of the fierce and mighty barbarians, and was a haven for adventurers of all stripes looking to earn a name for themselves. The barbarians had other names for the Gods, but any learned priest knew that these were just variations and forms of the traditional pantheon known to the great cities.

As to what brought you here? There had long been rumor that relics of the Gods and DemiGods, such as Herakles or even Zeus himself had been scattered across the lands of Hyperborea. Some were no doubt lost to the tundra, but others could be found and utilized for power and for glory. One such treasured relic was the Bow of Herakles. It was rumored that this mythical, and cultural weapon of the Herakles was locked away in a temple somewhere along the edge of the Frozen Sea. Whether this was actually true or not, who could be certain? But the lure itself was irresistible to any adventurer.

The weather had turned far colder the further north you went, and so it was with a measure of reprieve that you entered Aegir's Tavern, a small outpost on the cold road that promised warmth, food, and shelter providing you had the coin to pay. As you and your party enter, there is a distinct smell of mutton coming from the kitchen. A large fireplace has been pitted out in the center of the tavern, with a chimney leading up where the smoke can mostly escape to. Several guests warm themselves by this fire. The bar is fairly busy, with travelers of all sorts drinking, eating and talking amongst themselves. They pay no mind to you as you enter.

A young severing wench approaches though, and leads you and your group to a private table. After eying your coin purses to make sure you are not beggars, she promises to return shortly with some Hyperborean Ale and bread. For the moment, you have a chance to catch your breath and talk amongst yourselves...

  The door opened as the troupe of weary travelers entered the Inn, most clad from crown to toes in furs, of one kind or another. One of the figures  waited until the last of the travelers had gone through the door, before he entered and closed the door. There had been several shouted protests from when the door opened to allow the icy tendrils of winter to reach forth and caress every soul within.

 Lysandros,son of the great and far distant Thena, scanned the Inn’s common room out of habit of training in the martial skills. When no threat presented itself, he moved with the others to the fire pit, and dropped his gear. Gloves removed, as the young man rubbed his hands before the dancing flames.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:04, Fri 03 June 2016.

Doria arrived and way out of her element, far from the seas, wearing besides her scanty clothing some common furs for warmth and her instrument in hand. Looking around she is not as cold as one might expect her immortal form is not unused to cold, it might be the colder areas of the sea, but still it was - different. She didn't seek treasures but to meet some of her sisters of the places other than her home, and protect her mortal lover the fair Aleta.

Whipping back her hair brushing it she looked for a table for her and Aleta to share.

Eurenomes wrapped his blue chlamys tighter around his slender frame and looked around the tavern. The young priest from Argos felt decidely short and soft amongst the northern barbarians, but then he was the servant of swift thinking Hermes. Was a set of muscles compared to that?

He glanced around, trying to decide whether to look for a dice game or a pretty face. He was due some relaxation.

Aleta walks in and goes over to the table where Doria is sitting. She is dressed in a heavy hooded cloak with knee high boots to protect her from the cold. She drops her hood as she walks over to the table. She sits down and looks at the young severing wench "Please grin me something hot to eat and drink.

She grins at Doria "Why are we up here again? I hate this cold weather"

It had been a very  tiring day of battling wind and snow. Every step a battle against the elements and their own freezing bodies. Hyperborea was as harsh as always. Looking at his companions while they sat on the table Itylus could see everyone showed, to greater or lesser degree, signs of exaustion from the arduous day of journey.

 Having traveled his share on Hyperborea - though not so much on this northen region - Itylus had been the one leading the party so far through the cold lands. Today he had been forced to push the party harder so they could reach the shelter of the tavern before the freezing night caught them. A Hyperborean night was no thing to disdain. He had faced a bunch of them before. None had been a pleasant experience. On a couple of those occasions the daylight had found him almost frozen to death.

However, in spite of the bone-deep weariness he felt when he sat at the table with his companions, Itylus couldn't help but to feel an urge to leave the warm of the inn and plunge once again on the icy road. They were so close of it! The mythic bow of legends. The Bow of Herakles! If the rumors they had heard were right, it was hidden somewhere in a temple along the coast of the Frozen Sea. That legendary bow could be the answer for what he had sought for so long on his travels since he had left his ruined home on the Helicon Mountains. And now, feeling it so close to his grasp, it was difficult to stay still!

However Itylus knew rest was of essence for them to be ready for the trials that lay ahead and would be folly to neglect it. So he summoned all his patience, called for a warm drink, and sat in silence on the table, watching his companions and the other patrons of the tavern.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:20, Sat 04 June 2016.

Arthanos had never traveled beyond the Helicon Mountains before, and while he had initially been excited by the prospect of seeing new lands, the weather and climate had done much to dampen his enthusiasm.

Entering the tavern was like entering the realms of ELysium to his mind and he sighed in pleasure.

When Aleta asked for a hot drink, he quickly chimed in.

"And me as well. Anything to get rid of this chill." Turning to look at the others at the table he sighs.

"Why couldn't we have gone somewhere warm...like a nice tropical island in The Middle Sea....beaches...sun...no snow or cold." he says wistfully, then focused on Itylus.

"Any idea which way next?"

"Warm ocean would be more pleasant but the others wanted to go adventuring, and I might meet some of my sister nymphs that would be interesting we usually don't meet. And it gives us an excuse to cuddle and make love its not so bad no is it, but warm drinks all around would be good.," she said putting her arm around Aleta kissing her lovingly.

Her lack of magic up here will however be an issue.

Itylus watched with amusement the Thenian nobleman's disgruntlement. "Cheer up, my friend! We are arriving at the edge of a sea. I am certain there are lots of islands and beaches nearby for you to rest while enjoying the good northern sun!" he said with an earnest face. "Though of course, you probably will need to break through some layers of ice to actually find the islands, but that small detail aside, it's almost as if we were back to your beloved Middle Sea, Arthanos." a mischievous smile now showed on the hunters face.

Getting back to the matter at hand, he spoke to the rest of the table."As for our course of action. I have no idea to be honest. The rumors we collected along the journey weren't terribly specific. They only said that the temple could be found somewhere along the shores of the Frozen Sea. Hopeful now we are here people will be able to give us a little more information." he gestured towards the other patrons in the room. "This looks like a good place to start collecting information."
This message was last edited by the player at 13:38, Sat 04 June 2016.

Doria's eyes perked up at the word Sea. "If there is a sea there will be my sisters there I could ask them many are very old and wise, and my abilities should work there," she said shocked most of the men didn't notice her yet Nymphs do tend to stand out even if she is out of her element.

Warming his hands over the fire pit, Lysandros begin to felt his fingers and hands thaw. As he looks up towards the other patrons who were also enjoying the flickering flame, he notes that most are native Hyperboreans. A few eye him curiously for a minute or two as his appearance obviously betrayed that he was a foreigner in their land. Around the fire are a few other foreigners as well. A striking woman dressed in a red robe sits directly across the fire from him and appears by her bearing to be a priestess of some kind, though she wears no symbol or sign that would indicate which deity she served.

Back at the group's table, Eurenomes took the opportunity to scan the room. It would be difficult, but not impossible, to find pretty faces amongst the people here as most seemed to be male. However, he too can see the woman by the firepit where Lsyandros sits. He can also see a few women at the bar who eat, drink, and dine amongst other patrons. Games of fortune were a little more common. A few had private games going on, some with cards or dice, though more popular was betting on arm wrestling games. Eurenomes notes such an ongoing display in a far corner of the tavern between two such barbarians, with onlookers placing wages as to which of the two would win the match while the two competitors drink spirits and eye one another.

The serving wench returned with ales for the group in addition to a large bowl of fresh and hot bread. Hearing the requests made for hot meals and drinks, she nods and departs and goes back towards the kitchens.
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:07, Sat 04 June 2016.

 When the feeling returned to his extremities, and a tankard of ale, snatched from the tray of the passing serving wench, Lysandros began to feel somewhat civilized again. He knew they had entered the lands of Barbarianism, but there was no need to feel like the locals. Now the beautiful woman that sat alone at a nearby table, she did not strike the Noble as a local, She looked to,well, civilized.

 Lysandros walked over to the striking woman,and stopped before her table. "Hail,and well met, Lady. I am Lysandros, Might I  have the honor of joining you at table? I offer to purchase your next drink,Lady? What say you?"  He said, using his best manners and winning smile.

Eurenomes, who had been considering how best to approach the woman, glared at the back of Lysandros's head. He considered the barbarian contest of strength for a moment, but decided to stay put and converse with his companions.

"I can pray to swift sandaled Hermes for advice, though I do think we should seek out mortal wisdom first - the gods favour those who use their wits."

"Yes, up here, I have to wear so much clothing, which I don't normaly like to wear. But some WARM water would be nice. How can I take a bath up here after all" she looks around at the others in the room, sizing them up.

Doria smiles and mentions ,"Well like I said it will give us an excuse to get close in a warm bed my dearest, as for a bath my guess its hot water in a bucket and some kind of scenting. I always smell like the sea so its fine but you enjoy bathing. As for the quest away from the Ocean I'm vulnerable more than near or on or in it."

Arthanos gives Itylus a deadpan stare in response to his comments about northern beaches.

"If you like them, you can go swim on them...or find them. I'm staying here until I warm up. As to asking the locals for advice..." he says, casting his gaze around. "..any advise? I have not had to deal with northerners before."

The woman in red turned to meet Lysandros's approach, and eyed him like a hunter might her prey. "Greetings, Lysandros." she states, her voice as warm as her appearance. "May you walk rich in the love of the Gods. I shall allow you to purchase my drink, though my tastes can be expensive." she warns. "But you strike me as another treasure hunter come to these lands. Perhaps you can afford it?" she says, revealing a slight smile.

Itylus nodded in agreement to Eurenomes' words."Yes, I agree. We shouldn't bother the gods before we have tried to gather information through normal means." he watched Lysandros approach the comely priestess sitting by the fire an added with amusement. "Good Lysandros there certainly didn't lost any time to start... collecting information."

Itylus grinned silently at Arthanos' retort to his prodding and then answered his question. "Well to get a barbarian talking, you have to befriend him first. A mere conversation won't be enough most of the times. However, if you share with them a good bunch of drinks, or earn their respect in a match of strength -like the ones taking place on several tables around here - they'll open up to you as if you were childhood friends."

"Or be a woman with charms, to suit a mans needs, we can often gather information more efficiently than men if properly used. And our group sports two.," Doria said quietly to the men and Aleta stroking her hair the way she likes.

"Given the two women we have prefer to turn their charms on each other you'll forgive my scepticism Doria." Eurenomes commented dryly. The priestwas still annoyed that Lysandros had charmed the one interesting looking woman here and the two lovebirds in the gang canoodling only served to remind him he was single, gods only knew how many leagues from the women of his native Argos.

(and, fashionably late...)

Dysis did her usual --  watching from the fringes, taking stock of who was about, before deciding whom to approach.  Or, if to do so at all.

As for Hyperborea, the cold didn't bother her, overmuch.   The Elements she practiced were not the warm sort; she was accustomed to the chill, metaphysically speaking.     Her years lived as a slave had toughened her in regards to physical discomfort, as well.

An intellectual, a child of civilization,it might have been assumed she held Hyperboreans and such barbarians in contempt.  But, it wasn't the case.  In truth, she admired that they were often courageous, canny, and wise, in their own earthy sort of way.

Being what she was, it wasn't uncommon that men found her intimidating.  And, she had no interest or real regard for those who did.   Sometimes, among this sort of people, she found some interesting diversion.   Like that trapper she had spent several days with in Argos.  He had been a man.

But, her focus was on other things, presently.  About her waist was a belt consecrated to Apollo, that she'd acquired during their adventures.   Like most magic workers, such items were of keen interest to her.   So too this bow of Herakles -- though it wasn't something she could wield, personally.   But, better that it fall into the keeping of their company, probably in Itylus' hands, than the sort of people who frequently became their enemies.

She kept one ear open to Lysandros' conversation with the seeming priestess, while she gazed about the crowd.   She did something unusual, for her, and wore her symbol of Persephone openly, declaring her devotion for the Underworld goddess.   On the off chance it might bring someone to her...

Meanwhile, she looked for anyone different, compelling, suspicious, or otherwise interesting to her...
This message was last edited by the player at 18:42, Sun 05 June 2016.

"Eurenomes, don't worry, I still care for you. But Doria and I seem so made for each other. Maybe I should be more like her. Though I still say some prayers to your go of course.

"Now all the gods and goddesses need to be honored for their due, or it offends them, I honor Poseidon but won't for example not honor Zeus when in one of his cities. Aleta can worship as she wishes but if I take her into the sea to visit the beauty of the realms there she should pay homage to Poseidon and the other gods and goddesses of the sea as is fitting.," Doria said solemnly as a being close to the divine forces of nature.

The serving girl returned to the table, demonstrating her own strength and mobility balancing a steaming pot of tea on the one hand and another hand with a large platter of cooked meats for the party's consumption. She informs them that a tab has been started, and that they'd need to pay up front before they leave or before they take a room for the evening.

Those at the table looked around at some of other patrons in the tavern, they note:

- A boisterous merchant wearing some kind of lens over one of his eyes. This thin and wiry merchant is inspecting a jewel of some kind that had been brought to him by one of the Hyperboreans and it appears he is assessing it. Eventually the two seem to come to some sort of agreement over the jewel, as the merchant pockets it and then hands the Hyperborean a small pouch of silver who nods and walks away.

- An extremely large Hyperborean barbarian, notable not his immense size, but also from what must be a tamed bird of prey which sits on top of his shoulder. This barbarian, unlike many of the others in the room, drinks alone and occasional feeds scraps of meat to the bird. Others in the tavern seem to give him a wide berth.

- Two women who could be sisters (or maybe even twins) had recently entered the tavern to seek shelter as well. Although remarkably similar in appearance, one was dressed as though she were a noble, perhaps even a spearman of one of the great cities, while the other was dressed more plainly. The two women had been greeted by the same serving wench that had greeted the party and had been shown to their own small private table. They were speaking in hushed tones amongst themselves while waiting for their drinks and meals.

- Perhaps most unusual person in the room (apart from Doria) is the presence of an Orkoï. Orkos were humanoids, and well known as being a barbaric, brutish people who generally roamed in packs and would engage in plunder, rape, destruction and mass slaughter. They were also known as the sworn enemies of the Hyperborean Amazons. Given that the Barbarians had longstanding differences with the Amazons, it stood to reason that one such creature may be tolerated here where it would likely be killed on sight in Amazonian lands. The Orkoï sat silently amongst its human companions, occasionally drinking ale and nodding along with whatever was being said to it.

Doria gets out her instrument her delicate fingers dancing on the strings its loud enough to listen to if in the room, but is for her not to earn coin, tossing in the lyric poem on occasion when the Muse inspires her the first a prayer to the gods and goddesses:

Oh divine beings of Olympus, Sea and the Underworld here my prayer,

Let your goodwill be with us and may fear be left in the four winds this day,

We honor you and what is due should be granted in your domains,

Whether be those craft, passion, storm, war or strength,

By those of the many virtues give to us your blessings,

Zeus and Hera, and all of the divine this song honors you.

THEN ONE

Fair Aleta cunning and brave whom is blessed with my favor,

I dedicate my heart to you and my powers,

For you alone I yearn and in a bed will Aphrodite's crafts be shared.

"Look at that man with the bird," Eurenomes whispered to the others. "Not too hard though. I wonder if he is a shaman or a chieftain?"

He stroked his own beard thoughtfully. "I think II'll talk to someone, perhaps they can tell us more of this land. Not the birdman however; I suspect a more martial time might find him more talkative - or a maiden of course."

Getting up and giving the Orkoï a wide berth he paused, considering whether to move to the women or the merchant. The merchant wins out. Strolling across he smiles. "Hello fellow travel. You have a look of a southerner like myself. Care to swap stories with a priest of Hermes?" Hopefully the man would recall who the divine patron of merchants was!

Aleta grins at Doria  as she sings. She then gets up and walks over to the barbarian with the bird. "Excuse me, that is a fascinating bird you have, what is it?" she with a smile. She hopes he is not a bad mood or anything, its not like she needs a mad barbarian.

Dysis would have likewise been inclined to approach the barbarian.    However, noting Aleta pursued that avenue, she elected another option, instead.

Having not yet seated herself, it would appear less odd for her to go choose a table than it would for her companions to change tables.   She took advantage of it by taking a small table not too far from the pair of women --  not so near as to be intrusive, or suspicious.   Yet, hopefully near enough to overhear something of what they said, if she listened very attentively.

Fortunately, Doria's song had somewhat quieted the clamor of the room...

 The smile that spread upon the lips of Lysandros, when the woman replied, was worthy of her words. " I am honored, Lady." The Noble sat down opposite here and waved over one of the serving wenches." Whatever she wants,and I shall have the same." Said the man in his best courtly trained manners.

Itylus companions certainly had lost no time in starting to socialize with the other patrons in the tavern! Before he realized only he, Doria and Arthanos were left on the table. He was thinking on going to talk with the twin girls when he noticed Dysis sitting close to their table. He sighed. Well, someone had to stay on the table or it would probably look strange. Therefore Itylus made himself comfortable in his seat and started attacking the cooked meat the serving girl had brought them. He talked with his remaining companions on the table while he kept an eye for the others.

"That was an unearthly beautiful song, Doria. Truly, the voice of the immortal servants of Nature is unnmatched by any other race." he said with respect in his voice. Then, signaling towards the room and adressing both Doria and Arthanos, Itylus asked in a hushed tone. "So, what do you two think of the characters with whom we are sharing shelter tonight? I think the twins close of Dysis' table look like they are also minean adventurers, like us. If that's the case maybe they have heard of the Bow too. The woman that Lysandros is charming is intriguing since she doesn't seem to have any company even though Hyperborea is hardly the place for a regular woman to be traveling alone."

He paused eyeing the Orkos. "The presence of that Orkos here is disturbing. Even though they are also enemies of the Amazons like the Barbarians, I didn't think the Hyperboreans would accept such vile creatures under their roofs."
This message was last edited by the player at 22:18, Wed 08 June 2016.

Arthanos nodded slowly at Itylus' words, his own gaze now starting to travel across the patrons as he sips from the warm drink he is holding.

"I'll admit an Orcus is strange...more so that this one is sitting quietly and doing none of the things the tales claim they always do." he remarks, then his gaze flicks across to the twins as he "The women also present a interesting questions...maybe the Amazons are holding recruiting trials up here?" he asks jokingly, his attitude improving as he continued to thaw.

Noting Itylus digging into the meat and the way the others had wandered to gather info, Arthanos looked at Doria before remarking to both. "So, who wants to go talk to the Orkos?"

Though not a devoted lyricist whose livelihood comes from the power of song and music, Doria is otherworldly and a talented musician in her own right. Her song interrupts every conversation and activity in the tavern, as all present turn to look towards her and the party's direction.

At the conclusion of her song, some people openly applaud and call for an encore, while others go back to their activities and conversation, and still some others seem now to have their attentions focused on the nymph. Whether for good or ill, it would be hard to say at the moment but if nothing else they had made their presence well known now. It is not long that those still at the table with Doria, being Arthanos and Itylus (as Aleta, Dysis and Eurenomes had slipped away either before or after the song) were surrounded by a crowd of people. Some have never seen a nymph before and had been unaware of Doria when she first entered the tavern. Some beseech her to play and sing more for their entertainment. Whatever Doria may be feeling given this attention, Itylus and Arthanos could feel people surrounding them and pushing in where they were sitting.

Elsewhere, Lysandros' companion had stopped along with the others watching the nymph sing. She was one who had politely clapped at the end of the song. When the serving woman had returned and Lsyandros had offered to pay for their drinks, she smiled saying to the woman "A glass of the establishment's finest wine, preferably a southern import if you have any." she says. To which the serving wench nods, with a glimmer of surprise and goes to fetch it. The red woman turns to Lsyandros. "So, Lsyandros the treasure hunter... what treasure brings you to Aegir's little place here in the frozen northlands? You seem ill-suited to this land's cold winters." she says, giving a flirtatious smile.

OOC: (20:27, Wed 08 June: Maze Master, on behalf of Lysandros of Thena, rolled 10 using 1d20 with rolls of 10.  Reaction Roll. (neglected to add the personal charisma modifier of +5 result equals 15, resulting in "Trustful" NPC initial reaction)

Dysis had taken the opportunity to move to sit at a table closer towards the pair of women that had come in. The natural noise of the tavern had softened during Doria's song, and both of the women that had come in paused their conversation watch the nymph work her prose, though at the conclusion they simply returned to their quieted conversation while picking at their meals. Unfortunately, Dysis cannot hear anything that they say now over the clamor that was beginning to grow at the party's table where members of the crowd were asking Doria to sing again for their entertainment.

Meanwhile Eurenomes, also having slipped out while Doria had sung approached the merchant. "You guess correctly, favored son of Hermes." the merchant says with practised ease, giving a slightly awkward bow to Eurenomes as the merchant had still been seated at his approach. The merchant speaks further "I am a native son of Argos myself, though I ply my trade here in the north amongst the Barbarians and Amazons of Hyperboria. It is has many years since I have been home to wondrous Argos." he gives a knowing smile. "What stories do you seek out, oh speaker of the swift-footed Hermes?"

OOC: 20:28, Wed 08 June: Maze Master, on behalf of Eurenomes, rolled 13 using 1d20+5 with rolls of 8.  Reaction Roll. (total 13 results in "Neutral" NPC initial reaction)

At the conclusion of Doria's song, Aleta had moved towards the barbarian with the bird. This man too, like the others had been watching Doria sing and so was fully aware of Aleta's approach and introduction. Though he displayed no hint of emotion during or after the song and had not applauded afterward. After Aleta asked her question, the barbarian gazed at her for a long moment, and Aleta can get the somewhat uncomfortable feeling that she was being fully assessed. The barbarian then utters "[Language unknown: Icaundmen linleslatkor.]"

The man then switches to Minean, though heavily accented and flat. "She is a Falcon." he says. His face still displays no hint of emotion. The falcon swivels her head and gazes at Aleta.

OOC: 20:26, 20:26, Wed 08 June: Maze Master, on behalf of Aleta, rolled 9 using 1d20+6 with rolls of 3.  Reaction Roll. (total 9 results in "Neutral" NPC initial reaction)

Doria does a ballad of both passion and dark revenge when one of her kind was enslaved by a cruel tyrant and when she escaped she made it her dark quest to destroy the family line every man, woman and child over generations. Using the tools of her power and the passions of mortal lusts of all kinds. A tale that a Nymph can be good and kind but can be devastating when angered. Mentioning only the Sea God as the Sea God.

Many were killed far from the sea as the Nymph of the Ocean with treasures and lust had champions do her work for her. The enemies will be Greek some noble, some not but the family line died out.

In reply to Maze Master (msg # 32):

Eurenomes smile broadened as the merchant identified himself as a fellow Argosian. "You trade with both the Hyperboreans and the Amazons? How do you, an outsider gain their trust, especially as both peoples are enemies?"

As Doria launches into another song, the merchant gives a glance back towards her, shaking his head slightly, and then back towards Eurenomes, giving the wily priest a slight wag of his index finger. "I do trade with both though how I set that up, my learned friend, is a trade secret and a story long in the telling" he grasps his cup and takes a long drink of his ale. "I can tell you this though, as a newcomer here. Respect and a willingness to go out of your comfort zone will serve you well in these lands." He grins. "For example, one of the barbarian kings that I had treated with, oh a year or two ago, first demanded that I prove myself as a warrior." He gestures to his own thin frame. "Obviously, I'm not the kind of man built for battle like the Hyperborean barbarians... But I found a way to prove myself a "warrior" in this king's eyes, and thus earned his respect and his coin. That's the way of the merchant."

Suddenly their conversation had been interrupted by a mob of excited people who came to see the Nymph. Itylus found himself squeezed among the pushing Hyperboreans who tried to get closer to Doria. Though they weren't really trying to pass by unnoticed the hunter didn't really appreciated being the center of attentions, or to be more accurate, being next to the center of attentions. He bent over towards Arthanos and said. "Suddenly talking to that Orkos  doesn't sounds like that a bad idea. Want to come along talk to him or you rather being squeezed alive by Doria's admirers?"

 The young Nobleman was not totally immune to the considerable charms of his new companion,but he was no wet behind the ears lad,either. He had been known to break a few hearts of the fairer sex back in Thena, well, before his sudden departure, that is. The trip north had been hard,and the most interesting thing to see was snow,and more snow. This current diversion was most pleasant indeed,even if she did place a strain on his purse.

 When she asked what brought him to this place,and what treasure he was after, a whisper was heard only by him, and that whisper counseled caution,and to guard his words. Years of being around his father,and the intrigues of city politics had bred some caution to the arrogant noblemen. " My companions and I are here seeking something or another,Lady. But why speak of things of value,when I am sitting with a treasure that takes my breath away, when I gaze upon her beauty." He smiled to her then.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:54, Sun 12 June 2016.

Aleta looks at the barbarian "She is a beautiful bird. I can't imagine she is from this area. So were do birds like her live?" she just wanted to talk but he still seemed pretty reserved.

"Hmm, well I see I have much to learn," Eurenomes admitted without rancor. He stroked at his trim beard and gave the merchant a shrewd eye. "I suppose it would be a trade secret to ask which kings and chieftains to avoid at all costs?"

"Not a trade secret, but not free." he replies. The merchant then takes a small brass strongbox from his cloak, and inserts a tiny key into the lock opening it. Inside are a variety of jewels and gemstones of different sizes and quality. He then places a small dagger sheathed inside a fine jeweled hilt next to it. "The people here place have a taste for unique and rare stones. A gift to a a chef or shaman such as these, or a kingly gift such as this dagger could make you some friends... Or at least placate those who would consider you an enemy."

He grunts. "Yes. No ordinary falcon."- he replies. He seems to be searching for the right words in Minenan. "They come from the mountains... This breed." His face finally breaks and he does display some emotion now, polite but guarded. "Is that what you wanted to know? About the bird?"

Before she could reply to Lysandros, the serving wench had returned with their wine. Looking at the bottle, Lysandros does not recognize the vintage though the fine aroma of it stuck his nose well before it touched his lips. She swirls the dark red wine in her glass before taking a healthy sip of it. "Not as fine as some I've had, but it is satisfactory." she says. "So! you are a treasure seeker and a flatterer?" she inquires. "You are not the first I have known or that has approached me this evening, but my winning my favor would take more then honeyed words and wine, young Lysandros. Do you wish to know how you might do so?"

As the crowd surges around them, Arthanos positioned himself so he could make sure none of the barbarians could easily grab his coin pouch. It wasn't that he didn't trust them...but they were barbarians, and he had heard stories in his younger years...

When Itylus speaks, Arthanos glances at him.

"Aye, a change of location might be in order. I know I said I wanted to warm up, but not like this." He starts to stand to make his way out of the crush before pausing and his eyes flick back towards Doria.

"If we do go, we better keep a close eye on Doria and the crowd. Athena would be less then pleased if we left her undefended." he replies, before waiting for Itylus to lead the way through the crushing crowd.

Aleta looks at the Barbarian "I am here, looking for an old friend, helping a friend actually find them. I was curious what you might be doing here. I have not seen you kind too much up here."

While Itylus pushed through the crowd he replied. "Yes, we will keep an eye on her, but don't worry too much. Though they may seem frail and delicate, Nymphs actually are far from defenseless. The gifts which Nature provides them are potent indeed. She will be fine." He paused after they exited the mob and he looked towards the Orkos. "Not so sure if I can say the same about us though." And with this he stepped towards the creature's table.

"Well I can see you are well prepared," Eurenomes replied, something of a hint of admiration in his voice along with the dryness. Swift winged Hermes did not require or encourage his clergy to be poor.

"Are you not worried about thieves, or are they a rarer breed in these lands, what with honour and such?"

Or, he thought but did not add, do you have more tricks up your sleeve?

Casting a glance toward Doria's increasingly obscured figure, she suppressed a faint, ironic laugh as the ocean-nymph's admiring audience came at her in a veritable wave.

She listened for a moment as the next song espoused slavery, escape, and vengeance.   Things all threaded into the weave of her own life, and with which she could identify...

Having no success in eves-dropping, she then decided to try a direct approach, instead.   She arose from her own table, and made her way toward the pair of women.

"Pardon me so very much for interrupting -- but, you two hail from one of the great cities, don't you?"

Itylus and Arthanos approach the bar where the Orkoï sat drinking with his human companions. Those at the bar had turned to watch the nymph initially sing but had returned to their own conversation afterwards. As the two men approach, the Orkoï and his companions stop their conversation and look towards the two. One of the humans, a Hyperborean barbarian, looks at the two and asks in accented Minean. "Well... What do you want?"



"My kind?" the barbarian inquires. "I am here because I am here." he states, now turning away from Aleta.

It seems it would be hard to draw information out of him.



The merchant closes the lid on the case and puts the dagger away. "The Trickster Hermes protects both merchants and thieves, as you well know, of course." he states flatly. "I have been fortunate enough to enjoy the protections of swift-footed Hermes, that my losses rarely come from theft but from the market itself." He gestures towards his cup. "Excuse me, but I must tend to my cup, it runs dry right now." He looks over Eurenomes' head attempting to gesture towards one of the serving wenches.



The two look up towards Dysis as she approaches, smiles on their twin faces. "Yes, we do." says the more simply clothed one. "We come are native to Amphissa, an island to the southwest of Heraklia." she says. "Would you care to join us at our meal?" she offers. The armored twin then states "We would welcome the company of a fellow traveler." They proffer a chair to Dysis to sit on.

(OOC = 14:45, Today: Maze Master, on behalf of Dysis, rolled 27 using 1d20+7 with rolls of 20.  Reaction Roll. (natural 20, plus +7 modifier for total of 27 results in an "Friendly" initial NPC reaction)

With Itylus and Arthanos now gone, the crowd continue to press in on Doria at their table... Some of the men in the crowd look at the scantly clothed otherworldly nymph with a satyr's lust, and so now intermixed between requests from some for her to play and sing more music are vulgar requests, suggestions, and soon demands. The mood of the crowd is changing.

Indeed... she finished her next song, Doria felt a pair of rough hands grab at her right shoulder and yank her backwards. A man, or men, were now trying to take hold of her!

OOC: The other party members would not be aware of what is happening to Doria yet, though they could hear the crowd's clamoring and could perhaps detect a change in mood.

Doria: you have the opportunity now to take an action to try to stave off the crowd and your potential abductors at this point, just keep in mind that one arm is now "entangled" so you would have to break free of that. You would be able to turn your head to see the men and still have use of your voice as they have not bothered to bind or gag you.

Doria cries out at the top of her lungs in a panicked ,"ALETA!!!"

Somewhat surprised at how easy that had been, she returned the friendly smiles, then began to seat herself.

"Why, thank you, I shall, then.  I am Dysis, lately of Argos, and I..."

She paused, as she overheard the tone of Doria's audience grow rougher. Glancing back over her shoulder, it was hard to say what was happening; she couldn't see the nymph.  She turned back to the women, told them:

"One of my companions may be in some trouble.  Forgive me, I'll be back..."

And then Doria cried out Aleta's name, her distress plain.

Making her way toward the small mob, she saw most of the others were closer.   Hopefully, they would be enough to deter the lowlife from violence, and to seek their cheap thrills elsewhere.

If not, then she needed some space, and distance, for spell working...

In reply to Maze Master (msg # 42):

 Young Lysandros always did enjoy a challenge,and this lady held challenge in her yes. Indeed, he decided to play her game, so he smiled to her. "I await with baited breath,for you to tell me, how I might win your favor, most gracious Lady." Lysandros gave her one of those pearly white, even toothed smile.

Aleta looks over at Doria and gets up and leaves. Obviously she had offended him but as long as he didn't go berserk like, she was fine with that. She couldn't charm everyone. She heads back over to Doria at a run with her hand on a knife.

Arthanos followed Itylus towards the Orcus, but continued to glance back at the gathering crowd, hearing it get louder. Hoping Itylus was right, he tried to focus on the barbarians in front of him. The man asks his question, and Arthanos flicks his glance to Itylus before answering.

"Greetings, I am Arthanos and this is my companion Itylus. We are travelers up from the southern cities and..." he starts before he hears a panicked cry from the direction of their table. Turning to look, Arthanos spots Aleta and Dysis heading towards where Doria would have been.

"...I will have to continue this in a minute, I think my companions need assistance." he states as he begins heading back towards the crowd, shrugging his cloak back and dropping his hands to his weapons as he heads directly towards where Doria had been sitting and playing.

Itylus heard 'Doria's distressed cry and cursed himself. Obviously he had underestimated the lust the Nymph's charms provoked in the rough barbarians! Without even loosing time to say a word to the Orko's and his companions Itylus turned and strode swiftly back to the table. He saw one of the Hyperborean trying to carry Doria. Taking opportunity of the commotion that had installed around the table he passed swiftly through the surrounding barbarians and reached from behind the one carrying the Nymph. He putted his knife around the man's thick neck and said in a calm, dead-serious, tone. "Drop the lady right now or tonight you'll dine with your ancestors but without your head."
This message was last edited by the player at 10:54, Tue 14 June 2016.

 The young noble did spare a glance toward the disturbance,but it seemed his companions had matters well in hand. Lysandros returned his attention to the fascinating Lady.

The woman's eyes had traveled along with Lsyandros back towards the disturbance as well. "Trouble brews and Aegir will be displeased." she states. "Usually slaves or pets such as that thing are better guarded by their owners." she says with measured tone of disapproval.

She goes back to regard Lsyandros. "Ah, but to the question at hand! To win my favor? You must prove yourself noble in deed, not just in word or with wine." she explains. "There is a barbarian king by name of Gunthur, who has done me a grievous harm. He has insulted my honor, and those of the Gods as well." She adds, now reaching out to touch Lsyandros hands. "If you truly wish my favor, you will avenge my honor, and vanquish him in battle. Bring to me the amulet that he wears around his neck as proof of the deed." She describes it "It is a golden amulet, given to me by my father as a child. It is inscribed with a personal message, and has the blessings of mother Hera, though he would not know it, being the brute that he is."

She withdraws her hands then and takes another drink of her wine, keenly regarding Lsyandros and his response to her request. "What say you? Are your actions noble?"

Dysis waited and watched, as Aleta, Itylus, and Arthanos made their way nearer.

Though she appeared only to be watching, inwardly she was preparing to act, depending upon what might happen next.  Her will power honed, and she beckoned silently to the cleaner of the two elements which she commanded...

Arthanos notices Itylus stride past and shoulder his way through the crowd. He doesn't immediately follow, but slows to see what Itylus does, expecting him to go and start talking.

When the knife appears, Arthanos curses internally. He does not want to be thrown back out to the cold. Throwing a quick prayer to Peitho, he steps forward and raises his voice so that the crowd around Doria and Itylus can hear him.

"Excuse me gentlemen, but I feel I should intervene before this turns any worse and our fine hosts decide to kick us all out into the miserable cold and wet weather of the night outside. I'm sure we'd all prefer to be sitting here inside drinking, eating and enjoying ourselves." Arthanos remarks, his expression and tone friendly as he uses his experience and lessons about public speaking to try and get the crowd to listen and go along with what he was saying.

"I know most of you were enjoying the music and were simply here to express your appreciation and meant no harm, but alas our Nymph friend, a daughter of the mighty god Poseidon, has obviously gotten a bit overwhelmed by the sudden surge of people. I will admit we have been traveling as a small group for a while, and the large number of new faces must have been overwhelming." he says, hoping the crowd would take the hint about hurting a daughter of a god. "I would hate to see any misunderstandings that forced me and my companions to defend our friend here." he says, his expression looking serious for a minute before a smile again brakes out "But for now, how about you simply return to your tables and I am happy to buy you all a drink to help fix this misunderstanding. I know I'd prefer to be sitting and enjoying a lovely drink and listening to the Nymph continue to sing then being stuck in a fight, or kicked outside." he remarks, gesturing to the glasses on the tables when he mentioned drink, swinging his hands open past his weapons at the word 'fight' and then finally pointing at the door.

"Its your choice now." he finishes, his hands resting in front of him, but in a position where they could reach his sword hilts quickly.



OOC: I have the Orator background talent if that is needed.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:35, Wed 15 June 2016.

Aleta tries to get close to Doria, poking anyone who gets in her way.

"You have heard him friend, so... what is going to be? A beer to warm your throat or my knife through it?" Itylus asked calmly to the barbarian holding Doria.

"Of course," a distracted Eurenomes replied. He'd just realised the hubub surrounding his companion and he stood up. "Forgive my friend, but I believe I may be needed. May the Trickster watch over you."

He moved swiftly back towards Doria, ready to intervene should Arthanos's words fall on deaf ears.

OOC: Relevant Dice Rolls:
08:38, Today: Maze Master, on behalf of Itylus, rolled 10 using 1d20+7 with rolls of 3.  DE Check.
08:37, Today: Maze Master, on behalf of Itylus, rolled 10 using 1d20+6 with rolls of 4.  AP Check.
06:01, Thu 16 June: Arthanos rolled 40 using 2d20+4 with rolls of 19,17.  Trying to talk the crowd down...please Peitho.

Being pulled backwards, Doria had yelled out to her lover Aleta, her voice piercing the rancor of the inn and crowd. Some in the party moved to intervene. Itylus was the most direct of the party in weaving his way through the mass of bodies towards the man grasping or grabbing at the nymph. Itself a dangerous prospect as he could not know the context of Doria's cry for help, only that she felt threatened.

He is successful in doing so, though on his way toward her he nearly gets clocked in the jaw by a wayward elbow which would have hurt had it connected. He had drawn his weapon and placed it at the throat of the man who had grabbed Doria. This man was unwashed and stank horribly, though the strongest odor was that (predictably) of alcohol. This man had friends. Fortunately, Itylus was just swift enough to also avoid getting grabbed himself by the stinky barbarian's friends, three of whom were in very close proximity indeed and had attempted to grab the hunter to pull him off their comrade. With the flash of steel though, they had backed off and now the only thing that stayed off these men was Ityus's knife at the throat of their comrade.

It was a standoff that could have turned into a bloody brawl.

Though it did not, and instead it was one broken by words. Arthanos, practiced in diplomacy and public speaking (and a man who knew who to read his audience) spoke and his reasonablenss and generosity in promising a free drink won over whatever temporary lust or other feelings that those patrons had elicited by the nymph's voice. They were also intelligent enough to seize up the situation as well, and gauge the odds. One of the three men menacing around Doria and Itylus nods in assent, commanding his comrade. "Let the Greek's slave go. She is not yours to steal away from them.." With that stated, the one who had grasped onto Doria let up his hold on her, and the nymph quickly wrenched herself away from him, fleeing towards Aleta.

The one who had spoken now looks back to Arthanos. "It is done. Now tell your man to sheathe his weapon. Aegir will tolerate no bloodshed in this place." he states flatly.

The patrons in the tavern shift their attention to Arthanos and to Itylus, whose knife still graced the throat of the barbarian that had grabbed Doria.

As the situation began to resolve, she smiled faintly at Itylus' gutsy action, as well as Arthanos' suave oration.

Hopefully, Doria would a lesson about displaying one's pearls, so to speak, in the company of swine.

About to release the power she'd begun to tap, and make her way back toward the women, she instead paused a moment longer.

Desiring to be certain this really was over...

Seeing Doria finally being released and in the arms of her beloved, Itylus stepped away from the man. With a swift movement he sheathed his knife and then assumed a relaxed posture though his hand didn't go far from the handle of the knife.

Perhaps some of his companions from the civilized cities had judged his actions rash, however Itylus knew that in Hyperborea  this sort of situations many times would only be resolved pacifically by showing strength and confronting directly the opponent, just like when dealing with some wild beasts. Of course, inevitably, some times the wild beasts - and the barbarians - decided to go for the fight. Thankfully Arthanos' oratory  skills were far superior than Itylus' and he had surprisingly managed to pacify the lusty barbarians with his words.

To the other barbarian's words the hunter replied calmly. "And there will be no reason for bloodshed in this place tonight if we just go back to enjoying together Master Aegir's excellent drinks and food."


OCC:Dam, those dice rolls were really a close call weren't they? Glad I chose Skill and Luck as my highest stats!
This message was last edited by the player at 22:08, Mon 20 June 2016.

Arthanos nods his head towards the barbarian in thanks as he orders his friends to stand down and let Doria go. He looks to Itylus as the man steps back and away from the other barbarian.

"Good, all ends well and Aegir doesn't have to throw us all out but can instead continue to make money of us...speaking of which." he says with a faint smile before turning to signal the waitress from earlier to bring drinks to the men as he had promised.

"You kept your end, and I keep mine. May the Gods watch over you." he remarks after making sure the waitress was going to bring the drinks. Turning back to look at the barbarian, he pauses for a few seconds to see if the barbarian had anything else to say before heading over to Aleta and Doria to check up on Doria.

Alets grabs Doria and pulls her behind her as she keeps her hand on her knife. She knew something of fighting and was not afraid to use it. She backed them up away from the barbarians as she held her hand with her other hand.

"The barbarians of the North for this outrage will feel my wrath once I return to the Ocean, there my kind have dominion. How dare they call me slave.," she whispered to Aleta and you never saw her in a dark mood dryads however are not always gentle nor forgiving.

With the tension now broken so did the crowd, most of whom now went to the bar in anticipation of the round that the generous foreigner was to buy for them. So too did the barbarians meanancing around Doria and Itylus retreat in their own corners and cups.

The waitress approaches Arthanos with a pleased smile on her face.  "Very generous of you, noble stranger. Aegir appreciates your patronage. Although unlike your tab, this needs to be paid in full before we extend the service." she estimates. "50 silver should suffice to refill the cups of all present." she awaits the coin.

With the crowd dispersing, Itylus finally truly relaxed. He saw the waitress merrily charging Arthanos for the drinks and he approached. "I'll pay half of that, Arthanos. After all it was my fault we left Doria unprotected. "

"Doria, just take it easy for now. I don't want to antagonize them any more while we are here. We can talk about vengeance later" she holds her as she talks with her quietly.

"Perhaps you can help me improve my modd tonight, I so miss the ocean, and our swims in the sea aided by my magic I remember the first time we made love in that hidden cave along the coast. You were delicious but nervous our first time.," Doria said softly.

She made her way back over to the table she'd departed, and picked up just where she'd left off:

"Well, that was mildly diverting," she remarked to the two women, as she again moved to take the open seat, this time actually seating herself.

"Anyway, as I was saying, my name is Dysis, and I'm more or less from Argos, when not traveling, as I've done much of, lately.  Though I've met a number of people from this region, I've never really been out this way, before.  Have you?"   

Eurenomes moved back to join Aleta and Doria. "Making friends I see," he said ironically, then more seriously and with obvious concern. "Are you alright Doria?"

"Yes, I seemed to offend the one barbarian so he was not real friendly and the other ones got too friendly" she says softly

Arthanos nods his head at Itylus' offer to pay some, then reaches to his belt pouch and counts out 25 silver, handing it to the woman with a smile. He then looks back at Itylus and waits for him to pay as well before speaking.

"These things happen. I could have insisted on staying or pushed harder for one of us to remain. So blame is equal." he replies. Seeing the other gathering briefly, he nods his head towards them, then walks over. As he arrives, he catches Eurenomes asking if Doria was alright. He quickly added his own comment in.

"If you want to continue playing, one of us should stay near you...I would prefer not to give them another option to take advantage, or think they can try to get more free drinks out of me." he remarks, sighing slightly dramatically at the end in fake pity at himself.

Arthanos and Itylus split the cost of round for the bar out of their own coin pouches, and as the drinks are poured the patrons raise their mugs to their good health. Given the incident that had just happened, they give the party members now standing and talking together a wide berth.

As Dysis returned to the table with the two women they had just received their drinks as well paid for by Arthanos and Itylus. They nod at her approach and the more simply clothed one states "I take it they are friends of yours?" she gestures towards where Doria, Aleta, Itylus, Arthanos and Eurenomes now stand and talk." The other armored woman adds "Though even if you don't know them, it was noble of you to be ready to take a stand to help defend that woman. Dangerous, but noble."

The first one then speaks. "Well met, Dysis. I am Efimia, and this is my sister Myrine." Myrine, the armored woman, gives a tilt of her head. "We have been to Hyperborea many times before." says Efimia. "Typically we travel with others, sometimes as guards, sometimes as advisers. This time we travel seek out a new employer."

Myrine poses her own question to Dysis then "What brings you from "more or less" Argos to this land?" she inquires. "Although our fellow Mineans from the south and islands are not an uncommon sight here, ordinary people don't tend to travel from the luxury of the south into the untamed lands of the north."

 Seeing that his comrades had no need of his involvement, Lysandros returned his attention to the fair lady that sat opposite him. " It seems that in order for a man to ear your favor, he must travel a far distance, storm the stronghold of some barbarian King, slay said Warrior King in battle, then return your bauble to you."

 Lysandros had to chuckle, in response to her words. He took a drink of wine before he spoke again. "By the Gods, my Lady. I must say, your favor must be a most impressive thing indeed. The task you set, is worthy of a Goddess's favor." He sttok another sip of wine.

Itylus took out his purse with the silver he carried from its hiding place among his clothing and paid the smiling waitress his share of the drinks. He nodded silently at Arthanos' words though he still felt guilty about the situation and then followed him towards Doria and the others. While they spoke he looked around the room, first to check on Lysandros and Dysis, and then on the Orkos and his companions.

Doria places her trident close as she sits down.

"If I recall they depend on one river for trade North of here with access to the sea for merchants and foreign trade, at least by sea, is that true?," she asks clearly planning something and not good regarding the Northerners.

The woman gives him a mocking look in response. "I did warn you I had expensive tastes, did I not? I have been honest with you. Of course, if you are too afraid to face Gunthur and prove yourself valiant in deed, then I understand. The barbarians are fearsome in battle and it is reasonable to fear death and entering the realm of Hades so far from your home." she then waves away a waitress that was approaching with the round that Arathanos and Itylus had purchased for the tavern patrons. She takes another drink of her wine. "I do thank you for the wine. I wish you the best of luck in your travels in the north, oh Lysandros the treasure-seeker." she says, a note of finality in her voice.



Itylus sees his companions in conversation. Lysandros with the woman in red, and Dysis with the twins. He could not hear their conversations though it appeared nothing was wrong. As for the Orkos and the men it sat with they were clearly enjoying the beverages brought to them, though they did look in the group's direction from time to time. Of course, that wasn't unusual given the incident had just happened which they like everybody else present had been witness to. As to what their feelings or conversation was on it Itylus was unable to discern.

Arthanos frowns slightly at Doria's words.

"I don't know for sure, but don't do anything rashly. Affecting the river or ocean will possibly hurt others, and may not even affect those who tried to grab you." he remarks. "And we may need the support of the locals to complete our business. Wait till we find what we came for and then see how you feel about them."

"Northerners are Northerners, one must pay for insulting a nymph, not that I would do so if they were in my home island and did that my wrath would have been clear, appeased however with offerings to my father and gifts to me. So perhaps I shouldn't be so harsh the sooner we get the item and withdraw to the ocean to go home the better. Getting aboard a ship should be easy any captain would give a right arm for one of my kind on board.," Doria replied her lover making her feel better.

"Doria, I have to agree with Arthanos, I have to problem with vengeance on those that attacked you but just as those barbarians attacked you, that other one I was talking too didn't. He might not have been friendly but we all have bad days but he didn't attack us, so why should we harm him or his family?"

In reply to Maze Master (msg # 80):

 Lysandros returned her smile. "I am not alone in this place,dear Lady. I would have to discuss this matter with my companions, then we shall see."

She leaned backed in her chair some, smiled faintly.

"You are not wrong in those perceptions.  I did come here with yonder group and, indeed, we are not here merely to sight see.  I suppose you could say we are people not unlike those whom you have probably worked for.   In particular, we're seeking a certain artifact. And, someone familiar with the region might be valuable to us.  More so if they could handle themselves in possibly dangerous situations."   She glanced between the two.

"I'd say your sister's vocation is fairly plain, Efimia. What is it that you do, if you don't mind my asking?"

Efimia laughs slightly. "Hah well yes, my dear sister has chosen to study war and battle under Ares and has been my ever vilgliant protector for as long as we have lived. As for I?" she halts a moment but Efimia takes notice of Dysis' symbol of Persephone that she wears openly. "Well you don't seem like the sort that would be frightened off by talk of magic yes?" she adds "Lets say that I have been blessed by Hecate, and that can be an advantage for many employers." she gives a slight bow of her head to indicate modesty with regard to her gifts.

Myrine speaks "So, a Hyperborean artifact? Could be interesting..." she continues. "Not our usual line of work to find artifacts. Usually it's escort or otherwise an advisory kind of job to an enterprising trader or local King, but we do know the lay of this land and the routes better then most. Natives here don't tend to go too far from home, unless it's for battle."

Efimia jumps in "We are presently without employers at this time so we would be willing to entertain an offer, if that is what you are suggesting?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:07, Fri 24 June 2016.

Itylus gives Arthanos a slight nudge. "Feeling like giving a second try to the Orkos and his buddies?"

"We may as well...they may be more open to talking after all that..." Arthanos remarks, then gestures for Itylus to take the lead.

In reply to Aleta (msg # 83):

"I just want to get to a bed with my lover, forget these dirty men for awhile, maaybe it will temper my mood. We Nymphs like the more fickle gods and goddesses tend to be vengeful creatures when wronged. But tend to forget things with good wine and other diversions and my Aleta is a fine diversion is she not?," she said kissing her afterwards.

"I was thinking we should save our coin and buy a ship we could make  god living at sea and I prefer that for obvious reasons.," Doria added.

Itylus nodded to Arthanos. "Yes, hopefully the drinks payed with our coin will raise their mood and make them more talkative with us". He then walked towards the table were the Orkos and his friends were enjoying their beverages.

Itylus and Arthanos take their leave of the rest of the party (save for Dysis and Lysandros, of course, who were already engaged in their own conversations). The nobleman and hunter approach the table of the locals who drank with an Orkoï.

As they approached, the humans and the Orkoï look at them, raising their glasses in appreciation. The human that had very briefly addressed them prior to the incident with Doria greets them. "We thank you for the drinks, strangers." he says in the same accented Minean. "And we saw what you did for your companion." he says, now addressing Itylus, though his eyes crossed over to Arthanos while he spoke. "No doubt you have made some enemies now, but better enemies who respect your abilities then those who do not."

He raises a mug to the two and says something in his own language. "[Language unknown: To mo stiicahisder ourthaicaartati. Se ngha oreeveica ugh Latst res waesun essestter utlat.]"

---

The merchant that Eurenomes had been speaking with approached him now as he sat with Doria and Aleta.

"I beg your pardon." he states as he approaches, bowing his head to the priest, as then does the same gesture of respect to the nymph and thief. He addresses Eurenomes first. "I did not realize you traveled with such unusual company, oh speaker of swift-footed Hermes." he states. "I was wondering whether, my lady the nymph, might hear my plea?" He turns to Doria, and then proffers the box of gemstones that he had shown Eurenomes earlier, and plucks from the box a rather sea-green gemstone. It was a lovely orb and he let it lay gently in his outstretched hand.

He explains. "Given your, ah, unique nature, my lady, you no doubt can more easily be seen and speak with your fellow nymphs?" He continues. "There is a community of such river nymphs to the north, but they shy away from mortals such as myself. I wish to give them this particular stone as a gift to honor them and to open a dialogue, but I have been entirely unsuccessful. If you would be willing to carry my gift and deliver it with my message I would be eternally grateful." He pauses, awaiting Doria's response.

"If its an honorable accord I will go see them, but its not my realm, I would be a guest. But I wanted to meet others of my sisters so am inclined to do as you wish. We nymphs can be fickle to mortals and we also enjoy pretty things. In return for my help you will need to make a sacrifice to the gods and goddesses we nymphs honor of sweet herbs and wine poured onto a simple stone alter if your audience is agreed to. You wrong them then you wrong me.," Doria replied simply not finding the request unreasonable.

"Well, it is what I am considering. And your particular devotion and practice doesn't bother me, personally. But, I would need to broach this with my companions.  Hiring assistance is something we would decide upon as a group.   Have you had experience against things that aren't human?  We have ended up with some unusual adversaries, in the past..."   

Arthanos walks over, but lets Itylus take the lead. He figures the Orkus would probably be more impressed with Itylus' actions then his words. He stands, quietly just to Itylus' side as the main speaks, then waits for Itylus to respond.

Itylus bowed his head at the greeting of the barbarian man, and then replied to his comment. "Indeed, that seems to be the case, though I'd rather have avoided making enemies at all. However I did what I had to do." he then gestured towards Arthanos. "Thankfuly, with the intervention of my comrade, we were able to avoid any bloodshed. That wouldn't have been a good omen for our journey."

He then touched one of the empty chairs around the table and made a motion to sit. "Would you mind if we took a sit? We noticed our Nymph friend isn't the only... interesting character on the room tonight." he looked towards the Orkos. "I and my friend are a little bit curious about your companion."
This message was last edited by the player at 10:03, Wed 29 June 2016.

At this the woman in red nods, and then stands up. "If you do as I ask, then return to Aegir's and leave a message with Aegir himself. Tell him simply that 'flame has touched the cold hands.' and hand him the heirloom. He will let me know and in due course I would show you my appreciation." she bows her head. "The evening grows late now and I must retire. Good hunting to you, Lysandros."



"Of course, my lady." says the merchant. "My travels will keep me near Aegir's for some time still. If they agree to meet with me then I shall do as you ask." He hands the stone to Doria. "Until then I entrust you with the gem. It is a rarity, just as your people are, and I hope they will appreciate its meaning." he inclines his head in gratitude and goes to depart.



They both nod. "Of course." says Efimia. "We are in no rush, feel free to discuss the possibility with your companions." she then adds "We do have some experience against non-humans. Some Harpies, Minotaurs... Nothing truly exotic or unnatural such as a shade or other undead though." She gives a crooked grin. "Though the possibility of doing so would be of a professional interest."



The Orkos snorts and the barbarians laugh in response. "Never seen an Orkos, before, stranger?" says the man that had been speaking. "Impressive warriors, especially against the Amazons. This one here is Mugarod. Introduce yourself, why don't you?" He says to the Orkos.

Mugarod nods and gives a toothy smile, showing his sharp canine teeth. When he speaks it is a guttural sound and harsh to the ears. "Aye, I am Mugarod. Formerly a captain and clan leader, now an exile." He gestures to his companions "Are you an exile too, stranger?" he asks.

"What is your name and how can I get word to you merchant.," Doria says putting the gem somewhere safe.

Eurenomes, who had been watching the exchange between the merchant and the nymphs now spoke up. "I am happy to assist my friend with her task but I would be grateful if you could help in turn. Could you by any chance produce a letter of introduction to anyone of the lords and ladies you have dealt with?"

"In these lands, my name is 'Knarr the Blue', fair lady." the merchant says in response. "A message could be sent to me here at Aegir's. I shall be in the area for the next several weeks. I expect that it wouldn't take you that long to relay my request to your kin and have me informed of your success."

Hearing Eurenomes request Knarr laughs. "You've been in the three cities too long, my friend." he grins "There are no lords or ladies in the North. In Hyperborea there are kings. Tell you what, there is a king I am on friendly terms with by name of Gunthur." he continues "He does not read, nor do many Barbarians, but if you tell him that I vouch for you then he will render you aid." Knarr hands Eurenomes a small flat gem which sparkles in the light. "Give Gunthur this stone as a tribute. He will know then that you speak truly."

"Pleased to meet you Mugarod, I am Itylus, a hunter from the Helicon Mountains." he replied. "I am not an exile but I also have been traveling far away from my homeland for some time now." he paused for a moment, looking at the Orkos. "If you don't take offense, may I ask why where you exiled, Mugarod?"

Mugarod nods slowly as he listens to Itylus. Upon hearing the question posed to him his face scrunches up as though he was pained at recalling the memory. It is a few long seconds, but then he speaks. "Age." he says in response. "A young pup challenged my leadership of my clan and beat me in battle, but dishonored me sparing my life and setting me free to live, but without clan or family name, only my given name which shall be scattered to the winds on my death." He smiles at the hunter. "That, Itylus, is why I am exiled."

Mugarod casts his glance to Arthanos and then back to Itylus "I have given you my story. What is yours, and his?" he says, pointing towards Arthanos.

Aleta stood back with Doria and listened to the men.

 Lysandros leaned over and attempted to kiss the most charming lady that say opposite him.Being of the Noble class,and having a certain skill with the ladies, of course he assumed she would wants his attentions.

The woman in red allows Lysandros to kiss her, though she does not reciprocate the kiss.

Her lips are cold to the touch of kiss.

After Lysandros draws back she gently but firmly pushes away from him and goes to depart the inn.

Arthanos continued to remain quite as Itylus spoke. He was ready to offer support if needed, but still felt that Itylus had a better chance at this time then him of getting the Orkus onside.

" Lady, your departure is perhaps premature. I did not deny your task, I only bespoke of having to speak with my companions about the matter. If you depart now, it is with empty hands, where if you tarry, you might have your wish." Said Lysandros, with his usual winning smile.

After chatting a bit longer with the two women, Dysis arose to go speak with the rest of the group.   On her way back, she could not help but notice Itylus engaged in conversation with the Orkos, with Arthanos standing nearby.

Unable to help being curious about this dialog, she stopped close enough to listen, with a ready excuse as to why she did, if anyone asked.   Simply waiting to speak with her companions, once they were finished...

Aleta looks around to see what other groups are in here.

"I see," said Itylus "unfortunately, age eventually catches us all. And when it does not many keep showing us the same respect that once they did." after a brief pause he asked, suddenly with a sharp look in his eyes. "So, I assume that now you are looking for a way to restore what you can of your honor?"

"As for my history it is simple too. My hometown was destroyed by a cult of demon-lovers. They used their dark magic to deceive and then to sacrifice many of the people of the town to one of their Lords." though Itylus said this in a matter-of-fact way, there was a somber tone to his voice and a dangerous light in his eyes. "I was a simple hunter, used to hunt beasts and some monsters. I could do nothing against the supernatural forces that night. So, my town burned."

"After that I left, both in a quest to hunt down the evil cultists and in a quest to learn how to fight the supernatural."

Itylus said nothing about Arthanos' history, leaving to him the decision of whether to share it or not.

"You have my thanks Knarr," Eurenomes said, gratefully taking the gem and slipping it into his belt pouch. "May swift moving Hermes watch over you and your endeavours."

The young priest looked around with interest, moving a shade closer to Itylus so he could hear what was being said with the Orkos.

Mugarod listened to Itylus' story attentively. He gives a heavy nod at the end. "You too have lost your tribe." he says thoughtfully. "Though you have found purpose to life. That is something I do not have." he adds "Honor cannot be restored. I am just a weapon now." he gestures to his Hyperborean companions. "I earn some small coin and food with my friends here in raids though they have made peace with their enemy so I shall soon be out of work." he raised his mug. "Which is why we drink, to celebrate our victory."

Mugarod casts a glance to the others in the party, as well as to the silent Arthanos before turning his attention back to Itylus. "Good luck in your quest, Itylus. I hope we do not meet on the battlefield."

Standing with Doria, and seeing the merchant and then Eurenomes depart from that small gathering, Aleta casts a look over the other patrons in the tavern. Perhaps unsuprisingly, many were still watching them, though they were polite enough to not make an overt show of it.

Gambling was still occurring, tests of skill and might and the such as they had seen before when entering. A musician, a young Shepard boy by the look of him, was now playing a flute and providing some entertainment, and earning a copper piece here or there as he played. Otherwise there wasn't anything overly fascinating or unique about the small groups of people that ate and drank together. Unlike the great cities, there did not seem to be that seedy element that was attractive to thieves. Or at least, she wasn't able to recognize that element here this evening.

The  woman in red gives him an odd look that could be best described as a mixture of annoyance and bemusement. "I do not wait for words." she replies. "If you choose to perform the task I have mentioned, you will let me know if your success in the method I have told you. If you and your companions decline, then I shall find another worthy of my favor." She gives a slight curtesy. "You were interesting company, but I have tarried too long this evening. I shall see you again, young treasure hunter, should you decide to accomplish what I have asked."

This said, the woman in red leaves the inn, leaving those other patrons nearby to look over at Lydandros with interest. A few of the men chuckle, and an old woman shakes her head with disapproval. "Another twig on the fire." she states.

 Lysandros could not decide which he liked better. Watching the Lady in Red approach or depart. That question had vexed the greatest minds of men since the beginning of time.

 When the men laughed, the young Noble was not offended, this was not the first time a woman had denied herself the glory of Lysandros's charms. The old woman's remark amused him, He turned to the older woman and offered her a winning smile of pearly white teeth. " My dear Lady, there is no need for your jealously, I shall now romance you,as you have never been before. Just because you are a beauty in her winter, does not mean that I do not find that season without merit. The Gods have graced you with an inner beauty that time and age cannot diminish. Allow me to offer that beauty homage."

  He went to one knee before her and took her hand in his and kissed it.

Itylus pondered for a moment on Mugarod's words, and then said "Well, as a matter of fact... I was thinking we should meet on the battlefield... On the same side of it to be more precise." Itylus turned towards Arthanos. "Don't you agree Arthanos? You and Lysandros certainly could do with some help in the front line."

Perhaps predictability, the old woman laughs with delight as do the nearby men who watch this display. One of them comments jokingly "Friends! Lock up your grandmothers! The southerners have come to steal them away."

Another one of the men calls out to one of the serving wenches. "Aegir's coldest brew for the madman! His lust is so inflamed by the red woman that it has to be quenched!" Somebody else adds "Aye! Some of the Gods' brew will knock him back to his senses." It is not long after that a cold tankard is practically shoved into Lysandros' hands.

The old woman shakes her head and pats his hand. "Young twig, don't worry. You are not the first foreigner to get close to the fire."

Mugarod's expression takes that of curiosity. "For many seasons now I have fought alongside the Northmen and have learned much, even though I am but an old chief. To travel and fight alongside Southerners such as you and your companion has a certain appeal."

He gives a slight nod to where Arthanos stands silently and then casts his gaze back to Itylus. "If you and your party will allow one such as I to travel with you, then I shall be your weapon and strike as you see fit. If not, then I will wish you good hunting in your quest, Itylus."

In reply to Maze Master (msg # 117):

 The situation was amusing the young nobleman. And if the others thought him mad to pay tribute to an old woman, let them have their say. And it was only known by the gods, now, but this old woman might have made the red haired one look like a sow, in the bloom of her prime. He sat down next to the old woman,and smiled to her.

 " I am Lysandros of a place you could care less about, my lady. If you can stand my company, I would offer to buy you a drink,and toast your birth right of womanhood."

 The Noble raised the tankard towards those the general crowd, a gesture of thanks for the drink.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:19, Wed 10 Aug 2016.

Aleta sat back, sipping her drink. She thought they would be leaving soon.

Doria seemed a bit ... sad ... she was quiet only holding Aleta's hand ,"I miss the ocean its home, and I'm not of much help on land."

Aleta looks at Doria "I know what you mean. I can't wait till we are on the move again.

Seeing that Arthanos didn't wish to discuss the matter there, Itylus nodded towards the Orkoi. "Very well, Murgarod. I shall discuss the matter with my companions and tomorrow morning I'll tell you their decision." He rose. "And now if you excuse us, gentleman, I think we'll take our leave. Enjoy your drinks and have a good night. I hope we see each other again tomorrow"

Eurenomes wrapped his blue chlamys around him, mindful of the fact they'd be heading out into the icy wastes soon, and that unlike some people he could mention he would be venturing without a boon companion.

Arthanos shook his head suddenly, the heat and after surge of adrenaline having caused him to zone out. Itylus standing bought his attention back to the situation and he realized he was expected to have replied.

"My apologies Murgarod. The weather here is more draining then I had initially realised." Glancing at Itylus, he then continued "It would be very helpful to have someone traveling with us who knows the region and has skill in fighting in this terrain." standing to join Itylus, he then nodded towards the barbarian. "We thank you for your time."

After the walked away, Arthanos speaks to Itylus. "I am sorry, I sorta drifted off there...he seems like he could be useful, but I am not sure what the others will say. Do you think it is worth trying to get them to decide tonight or to wait until the morning?"

At Arthanos' apology the hunter smiled "It's alright Arthanos, I know the feeling. Today's journey was quite wearing and we are all exausted." Then, thinking about the nobleman's question he replied. "Hmmm, I am not sure neither. Let's just meet up with them for now and then we'll see."

Dysis approached Itylus and Arthanos at that juncture.    She spoke:

"Well, my vote is that we acquire the service of that Orkoi."  She smiled somewhat darkly.   "I think I like him. I overheard some of the conversation; I can identify with the change in life fortunes he has suffered. And, his presence alone might be enough to send off some who would think to trifle with us."    She paused, then added-

"On that note, I'd also like to acquire the service of the pair of sisters I've been speaking to.  They know this region, are familiar with the people.  And, we'd acquire another skilled warrior, as well as...well, how do I put this in the best manner possible?...a witch."   She placed a consoling hand on Itylus' shoulder, knowing how he felt about practitioners of the darker arts.

"Look at it this way, Itylus...she reveres Hecate. With your worship of Artemis, mine of Persephone, we'd have the complete trinity of moon goddesses. How could that be a bad thing-?" 

Aleta follows Dysis up. "I am fine with the extra protection. Orkoi is fine. I am not sure why we need a witch, are not they bad? and Dysis likes the sisters, I am not sure I want the competition." she says with a smile.

She looks at Dysis "My patron gods are so much more fun though, Hermes and Dionysus. I always lift a glass a of wine to the god.

"Competition? You company with an ocean nymph, yet you are worried about mortal competition?" She gave Aleta a teasing, conciliatory smile, knowing the humor was plain.  "More fun?  Hmm. Maybe. Much fun occurs under moonlight, don't you think? Also, I can't give Hermes any points around Eurnomes. He's smug enough, already." 

But, Dysis was serious when she added: "Bad is relative, isn't it?  Some consider my art 'bad'. Magic, most magic, is much like your dagger.  It depends for what it is used.  'Witch' is a harsh term...though, I've been called worse myself...but, they are said to have some very unusual powers.  Things that enemies might be unprepared to face. That could be our advantage, in some tight spot. Anyway, the sisters are mercenaries, loyal to those who pay them. But, I know, we run this little troupe by vote. I won't try to push anything on you, or the others, that you're uncomfortable with."
This message was last edited by the player at 01:17, Thu 15 Sept 2016.

She looks very put out and gets dramatic "Oh my Dysis, I admit, mortals can not compare to your grand beauty and of course magic in the wrong hands is what is bad. But I know you, not them, my wonderful Nymphy one"

Doria looks at her wife ,"We were married by the sea before the gods and goddesses am I not pleasing enough for you mortal?"

Arthanos looked up as the women approached and listened as they spoke. As they started to argue, his tired mind couldn't be bothered trying to figure out what was in jest and what wasn't. Glancing around to see where Lysandrous had gotten to, he spots him with an old woman and no sign of the Lady in Red.

"I apologise for interrupting, but since opinion seems to be to see if we can get the others to work with us, we may as well do something about that now. It looks like our other companion will be busy for the time being." he says and gestures towards the other noble. "I say we tell them we want to speak with them in the morning about them working with us, then get some rest." he remarks, then looks at Dysis. "Dysis, if you want to mention it to the ladies you spoke with, that would probably be quickest. Itylus or myself can speak to the Orkoi." he then glances back at the others to see if they had anything else to add.

"Otherwise, I am going to go find a room and rest. This has been an exhausting day and this evening has not been much calmer."

 

"You want to hire a... what!?" asked Itylus, taken aback after hearing the word witch. Then, after Dysis tried to console him with the Moon Goddesses trio, he pretended to throw a dark stare at the elementalist and muttered. "Could be a bad thing if you consider that the other two goddesses represent the dark aspects of the Moon and the Night!..."




"Alright then," said the hunter, now serious, to Dysis. "If you deem that wit...," he paused " magician woman...  and her companion to be trustworthy enough, I'll trust your judgment, Dysis. I can't  deny your arguments about her uselfuness, and of course, dark magic is not always synonym of a black soul as we have learned with you..." he paused, looking serious at the elmentalist. "... However, as we know, that is the case most of times. So I'll still be keeping an eye on both of them. After all, even normal mercenaries are far from be the most trustworthy of the folks. And dark-magic wielding ones certainly don't inspire me anymore more trust and are certainly much more dangerous".

However this could be an opportunity for him to learn more about other types of dark arts besides the ones Dysis wielded. The more he knew, the better he would be at fighting against dark magic.




"I agree. I can go tell the Orkoi that we'll inform him of our decision tomorrow while you go find where the are rooms are located, Arthanos." said Itylus to the nobleman that presented signs of exhaustion on his face. He realised now that, he himself felt bone-deep weariness. He wouldn't take too long falling sleep when he finally reached his bed.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:47, Thu 15 Sept 2016.

For once, it was Dysis' turn to be confused.

"Pardon me?  You thought I was referring to myself?"  She shook her head with a laugh.  "I'm quite human!  I was referring to Doria. Anyway, as I said, the sisters are mercenaries.  Money would buy their loyalty.  If we decide to go that way. I won't cry if we do not. You are right;  we don't know them."   To Doria, she said-

"Tell dear Aleta just how beautiful she is! I think she needs to hear it."

To Arthanos, "Yes. I'll tell them we wish to speak with them, as a group, about possible employment."   And, lastly to Itylus-

"Ah, like Persephone, Hecate is wrongly judged by many.  She's a stern goddess, and touches things that many find frightening.  But, she is not evil. I would not suggest taking any servant of true evil, trust me!  We'll surely make enough enemies, without bringing any."

She looks at Doria and Dysis "Oh, I think Dionysus has blessed me far too much as I have consumed some of the gods wine way too much. Now I am mixing up the woman around me" she takes another sips of wine, figuring she was already messed up, how could it get worse.

"I can't claim to have stood before the gods like Doria," Eurenomes spoke up for the first time in a while. "Still I am a servant of swift thinking Hermes and I am not so sure about a follower of the Goddess of the Crossroads. Itylus has fears that we should pay credit to. Besides, with respect Dysis, we already have servants of the gods with us. I have magic of my own, granted by the son of Zeus and you and Doria are alike blessed. Would it not be better to seek more swords and spears instead?"

He smiled ruefully. "Besides in my experience sterness can be almost as bad as evil."

Room arrangements are made for the party members and eventually each makes their way to retire for the evening, either by themselves or with a companion. The accommodations are modest and pleasing enough for seasoned travelers who just want some privacy, safety, and a warm bed. A strong and steady lock was on each room.

Despite this comfort and safety, clearly the inns of Hyperborea paled in comparison to even the poorest inn anywhere outside of the Great Cities, at least with regards to luxury.

Fortunately the evening passed without any further incident, and the next morning after awakening and using a common cleaning room to freshen up, the party members found themselves free to lounge a bit further in their beds or rooms, make their way downstairs for breakfast, or even step outside to enjoy the crisp weather or check on the horses.

For any party members going down to the common room where they had been the prior evening, they found the inn to be quiet. The smell of freshly baked bread lingered in the air, and now there were serving girls bringing out bowls of bread, cheese, fruit, and meats such as pork to a few customers. At the bar sat the twins, Efimia and Myrine, and they were sharing their breakfast together and talking quietly amongst themselves. In the corner of the inn sitting close to a window enjoying the sunshine sat Mugarod. He was smoking a carved pipe of some kind and was casually sharpening a hunting knife. The evidence of a finished meal laid out before him.

An elderly couple, apparently having stopped to delivery chicken eggs, were now stepping out with a small bag of coin in hand. The owner, Aegir, who was absent last night was now present and carefully inspecting the eggs with approval. A small child darts around the inn with a small broom a pan in hand, sweeping up scraps of bread, cheeses and such which would likely be tossed or fed to farm animals.

Doria bedded her wife barring her objections after mutual bathing and she is in a good mood, clearly affectionate to Aleta and not hung over, eager to get to her ocean again at some point.

"Inn Master your inn is very nice, cozy and warm, and the bread smells good. Hope your morning is going well.," she said as she rested way to overdressed for her tastes. The Oceans cold she can handle unclad but this dry cold is different.

Aleta wakes up in a good mood and cleans up with Doria. She giggles as she is affectionate with Doria.  She gets dressed and heads down with Doria "Oh, I can't wait to get some breakfast. I am so hungry" she sees the inn keeper and smiles at him.

Eurenomes awoke to a blameless and otherwise empty bed, which did little to improve his mood. Still after bathing, dressing and prayers to the gods he was sufficently hungry to let the desire for breakfast drive away most of his grumpiness.

"Good morning my friends," he says as he enters the common room, graciously includng the twins and Mugarod in his greetings.

Dysis arose in the morning, after an evening of sporadic talk with several patrons who'd further caught her interest, as well as study of a historical scroll in the Stygian tongue, which she'd been meaning to read.

She'd already spoke her prayers at midnight, when the gates of the Underworld were most open, and they most likely to be heard by her patron goddess.   So, with no more ado, she washed and prepared herself, then went down to join the others.

And now on to the matter of hiring help, or no.  Aleta and Eurnomes had both had valid points, and she did understand Itylus' feelings in the matter, though he'd been willing to defer to her judgement.  Perhaps she was jumping the oxybeles*, so to speak.  Well, they would decide that together...

"Good morn to you too, priest of Hermes.  And to you, sisters," she greeted Efimia and Myrine.

"Our little troupe will decide upon what we spoke of yesterday, once everyone is here."

OOC- oxybeles = greek siege weapon, like a ballista -- used in place of the modern saying "jumping the gun"

Aegir had stopped briefly from inspecting the eggs and turned to nod in response to Doria and Aleta's greetings saying in Minean with a thick accent . "Good morning to you as well. I heard we had a visiting nymph who had caused a little trouble." he says, now going to produce a bowl of fresh bread and a board of cheese for the two, while whistling for another server to attend to the others that had come down - Dysis and Eurenomes.

He looks at Doria with some curiosity. "You are what we call a Nereid, if I am not mistaken?" he states. Aegir looks thoughtful. "The last one I had seen, at least the last one traveling openly and not disguised  was a few years ago. One of the Naiad of our great river." Aegir takes one of the eggs delivered and inspects it again. "Had just started her journey, knew nothing of mortals and customs." He chuckles, putting the egg down, as it had passed his careful inspection. Aegir calls to one of the staff who comes and takes the basket of eggs away.

At the bar the twins, Efimia and Myrine had listened with curiosity and gave their greetings to Dysis and Eurenomes as they had come down. Efimia, the "witch", as she had been called says in response. "Of course, we shall await their arrival, though I feel it a courtesy to let you know that should we not be hired, we will regardless, be traveling north on the trade road by late morning towards the mouth of the river Rhena." She continues "At the mouth is a trading village and thus plenty of opportunity for travel and employment for my sister and I.""

"There is greater safety in numbers, obviously, and if this is where you intend to travel then we would be pleased to travel on the road with you, but we would not impose our company if any of companions should find our presence offensive." she smiles and then invites Dysis to sit near the two of them and join in their breakfast.

Doria said ,"Not all of us share the same powers my kind can't alter our appearance but in the Ocean there is little need, and on the Coast and in the Seas no mortal would dare try to harm us but I'm not near my home. But our Elders send some of us to learn about the mortal world the ones who in time will be leaders and bring back knowledge and experience. We are creatures of deep passions however for good and for ill. I might like to meet the river sisters what was the ones name you met she might be present when I near it?," Doria said as she ate picking some bread one of the mortals more interesting creations she liked it though.

Arthanos woke up the next morning still feeling tired. While he could hear the sounds of the inn coming to life, the idea of getting up into the cold made him delay for a while. Having never traveled this far north before, he just continued to find the cold really annoying and unpleasant.

Eventually he managed to stir himself from his bed. After bundling himself back up into his warm travel gear, he headed down to the main tavern room. Seeing some of the others already down, he nodded to them before bee-lining towards the nearest server.

"A serve of hot food and warm drink please." he requests before heading towards Eurenomes and sitting down at his table. "Morning." he remarks quietly before looking around the room. Spotting Dysis speaking to the women and Mugarod sitting along, Arthanos figured he'd wait to see if Itylus showed up in a bit to speak, since he had been the main contact point, before heading over himself.

She was listening when Arthanos showed up. She was still eating and drinking "Greetings Arthanos, please join us" she couldn't wait to meet Doria's sisters or her people.

"Morning Arthanos," Eurenomes greeted the newcomer pleasantly. The young priest evidently felt the cold too - his blue chlamys was wrapped tight around his frame.

"Our friend Doria is becoming a local celebrity," he added in amusement. "I guess even a roguishly handsome priest of Hermes cannot compete with a daughter of the water for attention."

Aegir looks thoughtful for a moment. "I don't believe she had given a name... just the name of her river." he says. "It was a few years ago now after all. She didn't stay too long though, I gave her a cloak of mine as an act of friendship and some words of advice in traveling amongst humans and she went on her way."

"I'll mention the cloak gift and your name it might help, and if your married with children I can see they come from fine lineage your honorable and good hearted. And if your wife does the cooking she is exceptionally good you obviously eat well.

Now we need food for the road can we get bread, cheese, preserved meat and fruit and nuts and a skin of local wine after we are done here? I think for a few days each on the food.," Doria says pleasantly when she gets angry mortals will know it but that is uncommon.

"I would ,my friends, prefer to be on the sea we should try to get a ship with me on board you will be favored and if we must go to battle on the Ocean my power is formidable.," she added as she was eating.

"I am an Argosian and there is much of the sea in my blood," Eurenomes began, before smiling in amusement and gesturing in mock surrender at Doria. "Though not as literally as you my friend. If I had the choice I might have chosen to be a daughter of the sea. As it is life on the wave would suit me, but don't forget we are looking for the Bow of Herakles."

"I am pretty useless on a boat but I can go up the rigging. I am fine with the sea though as I know Doria will be able to protect us greatly there" she says with a smile.

As Arthanos waited for his hot food, he listened to the others talk.

"While I really like the idea of heading back the Aegean and its warmer weather, we have made the trek up here already. Not only that, but we have already stated our intentions to people here, and it would look weird for us to suddenly change direction. It would also affect those of us who gave their word to do certain tasks but then left." he says, glancing quickly at others.

"Plus, if we do find the Bow, the fame and prestige from such an endeavour would allow us to outright BUY a boat of our own, instead of having to rent or borrow one."

The companions gather around and discuss with one another their plans outside of earshot from Mugarod, Efimia and Myrine. Collectively they are in agreement to attempt to hire all three. Given that the Ork was most favorably predisposed to Itlyus, the hunter is sent over to the Ork's corner to come to an agreement, while Dysis, having earned the friendship of the twins already goes to speak to those two.
The terms they come back with are very favorable indeed...

For his part, Mugarod waives any right to collect wages or a percentage of treasure earned, assuming that his food and shelter when staying indoors is covered by the party. He agrees to give his guidance and impart knowledge to Hyperborea, and even assist with translation as needed so long as he gets weapon training from Arthanos and Itylus in return.

He does note that unlike the Hyperboreans he is uncomfortable with sea travel so while he is happy to guide them on land, if they eventually decide to travel elsewhere on the sea then he would part ways with them at that time.

As for the twins, Dysis' is able to get the two to agree to travel with them as guides and mercenaries in exchange for a small percentage of any treasure gained during the course of their employment, approximately 10 percent, or 10 silver to every 100 silver (1 gold piece) which they would split amongst themselves. Alternatively, if during the course of the adventures the party finds a magical artifact that Efimia is interested in, they would collect that treasure and waive their entire percentage, assuming that the other party members are in collective agreement to that trade at that time.

They confirm they are a package deal. Where one goes the other will follow and they refuse to be split up in any circumstance. They eventually agree to take care of their own lodging and food as they travel together.

They express some reservation about traveling with Mugarod (after that is revealed to them as well) but agree to do so long as he is kept in check and does not bother them. Myrine, the warrior, makes this point expressly clear to Dysis that she will tolerate any beastly creature (or anybody else for that matter) making unwanted advances towards her sister. Dysis makes her assurances and promises that Arthanos and Itylus will keep Mugarod in check.

With that matter now cleared up and terms agreed to. The party checks out and exits the inn...