The sign is the first thing that people recognize when they see the Nereid's Nectar- a carved and painted bit of wood, depicting a rather gorgeous nereid holding her shawl with one hand in such a way that it shields her wiles from a passing glance, though her other hand offers forth a bountiful tankard with a beautiful head of foam on it, with the nereid smiling a teasing smile as if she's inviting you in...

Inside the Nectar, several round and square tables of various sizes are offered, as well as a long bar with several stools- all made of solid wood, but still comfortable.  In one corner, a small performance area is set up- for bards, storytellers, perhaps even dancers or speakers to come by and try their luck with the crowds.

One chair, at the end of the bar closest the wall, bears a small mark in it, even as it bears a decorative white shawl around the back of it- and it's the one seat in the house that's usually frowned upon for others sitting there.

The walls are covered with various things- fey-themed artwork and trinkets from various local companies, serai and guard squads, for example.  One panel of the wall might be festooned with a painting of nymphs and satyrs chasing each other around a quiet forest grove- with perhaps just enough in the way of flowing hair and bunches of bushes to keep things mostly decent, to where another might have a few items donated by a local training school or guard regiment- perhaps a coat of arms, a decorative shield or sword or other weapon- something for them to be able to take pride in.

A stairway at the end of the bar leads up to the Nectar's second level- where several rooms for rent- as well as Kiera's personal quarters- are located.  The former can be rented daily or weekly, and the latter is usually limited to invited guests.

The food and drink at the Nectar is actually pretty solid, for what it is- its owner prides herself on sourcing local and national wineries and breweries- featuring some solid ales, beers, and wines from Tusk and Midmarch-based businesses as a source of pride, but also keeping stronger and more specialized liquors, ales, and beers from far-off places- or held onto by special requests.

The food isn't all that fancy- stews, bread, porridge with jam and fruit, among other things- but it all has three things in common- it's plentiful (those who work hard like porters, guards, and serai cadets need to eat more), tasty (hey, if you work hard, you ought to at least have good, tasty food), and a very good value for its price (save money for important things, like alcohol, gear, or visits to the Bottled Nymph).

Usually behind the bar if its owner is not around is a woman who just goes by the name Rila- if that's her actual name, nobody seems to know, but she seems to have a good head for pouring drinks and keeping the servers jumping when needed.

"Don't start trouble.  Trust me.  The boss's Calistrian, and you know what that means" is usually enough from her to keep most of the troublemakers quiet...

All in all, it seems to be a rather tight but nice operation set up.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:10, Tue 21 July 2020.

Cass took time to take in all the ambience, from the decorations to the clientele. As was the true indicator of success of any such establishment, the place was fairly well packed and no one seemed to be in any rush to run off anytime soon.

Cass made his way to the bar once he saw an open spot. “What would you recommend both as a meal and a truly enjoyable drink to match it?”

Tic sat at a table in the corner, slowly drawing on his pipe and blowing smoke rings.  He sighed contentedly having just sorted out his return to Ringbridge in a few days time with a Winter Sun mule train.  Two other halflings and a dwarf sat at the table with him the group chatting away and enjoying a quite drink.  "So Master Domitiius's, cousin owns the place boys so no picking fights you here me.  Don't want he to come down here and crack heads now do you." he smiles to his friends as he adjusted hi eyepatch over his right eye. "Curious though any of you know what the deal is with the chair with the shawl?"  His question was met with blank stares and shrugs.

The redhead currently walking around and waiting tables first stops off at Cass's table, and cocks her head at his question.  She favors him with a bright smile, and thinks a bit on the answer.

"The local ale's good- the boss does her own sampling of everything, and we've got a couple different kinds available- something spiced with fruit and honey we think is from down south in Kyonin- not exactly sure, but the boss has feelers out for wherever it's from.  It's nice and light, but you'll have to hurry- it's kind of popular with the younger crowd.

Got a few barrels of some from one of the local breweries- might have more, but the boss is too spooked to go over to the Dragon's Den to talk to the owner, there.  It's a pretty nice, solid ale all round.

Of course, if you're feeling man enough, we've got a bit of dwarven-made left- it nearly put the boss on her ass after two tankards, so be warned.

Far as the food, we're not the Dragon's Den- we've got stew, we've got spiced fried potatoes, and a few other things going right now.  It's not top of the line dining, but it'll taste good, it'll fill you up, and it all tastes much better with at least one mug of ale.  Guy like you?  I'd say a solid bowl of beef stew, a plate of spiced potatoes and a mug of something to wash it all down and you ought to be fine, hm~?"

She blinks, and cocks her head- and gives Cass a slight, questioning look.

"Anybody ever tell you you look like someone important?  Can't really place you, to be honest, but you remind me of someone...  anyways, just raise your hand when you're ready to order, I'll be right over."

After that, she walks off, over to the table with the halflings, clearing her throat and pulling out a scrap of parchment tacked to a flat piece of wood, ready to take whatever order they had- but still catching the end of the conversation.

"...it's usually where the boss sits, when she's around.  You know, how a nereid has her shawl?  Can't rightly remember where Ki is at the moment, though- could be sleeping one off upstairs, could be out elsewhere, who knows?  But if you want to order something, well... just raise your hands and I'll be right over, hm?"

She'd gift them with a grin, too, and move back to some of the other tables, taking orders from other hungry or thirsty customers.
This message was last updated by the GM at 19:08, Mon 03 Aug 2020.

Over in the small performance area; not necessarily during the current conversation(s), but at some appropriate point...

The dark haired woman who took the small, low stage was far from the land of her birth.  Including its opera houses; for which she'd begun to be trained and groomed, in what now seemed like someone else's life, before things had been swept in a wholly different direction.  She had come to the Nereid once before, on recommendation of her employer, and taken a liking to it.  The piece she prepared to sing here was no opera, but rather a simpler and far more personal selection.    With no ado to speak of, she drew breath and began:

"All my friends tell me I should move on
I'm lying in the ocean, singing your song
Ah, that's how you sing it
Loving you forever, can't be wrong
Even though you're not here, won't move on
Ah, that's how we play it

And there's no remedy for memory your face
Is like a melody, it won't leave my head
Your soul is hunting me and telling me
That everything is fine
But I wish I was dead

Every time I close my eyes
It's like a dark paradise
No one compares to you
I'm scared that you won't be waiting on the other side
Every time I close my eyes
It's like a dark paradise
No one compares to you
I'm scared that you won't be waiting on the other side

All my friends ask me why I stay strong
Tell 'em when you find true love it lives on
Ah, that's why I stay here

And there's no remedy for memory your face
Like a melody, it won't lift my head
Your soul is hunting me and telling me
That everything is fine
But I wish I was dead

Every time I close my eye
It's like a dark paradise
No one compares to you
I'm scared that you won't be waiting on the other side

Every time I close my eyes
It's like a dark paradise
No one compares to you...

But there's no you, except in my dreams tonight
Oh oh oh, ha ha ha
I don't wanna wake up from this tonight
Oh oh oh, ha ha ha
I don't wanna wake up from this tonight..."


"Dark Paradise" by Lana Del Rey
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bvr8n59wxeI

When Sejana finishes her song, the woman behind the bar gives her a bit of an appreciative glance.

"Y'know, if you wanted to maybe make that a regular thing, I could see spotting you a few drinks and a meal for a few songs and the like.  Stage needs to be used every once in a while- figured I'd see if there were any acts locally before I started asking the boss to put the word out."

Tic clapped enthusiastically at the end of the song, he waved Rila back over to the table to order another round"Rila isn't it, I'll have another round for the table and one for yon singer if you please, that was a fine song and could you let her know she is welcome to join us at our table.  Oh and put the drinks on Master Domitius's account." he gives the redhead a broad smile

"You are too kind," she said in reply to Rila. "My work keeps me busy, I do not have the time to practice that I did once.  But I still love doing it.  I am certain there will be others who will exceed my humble talents." She smiled slightly.  "Many are eager for a platform.  Some merely for fun. And others for more serious, personal agendas."  She paused, looking closer at Rila.

"But, I do love your establishment; it is by far my favorite, out here. I don't need much incentive to return.  Our employers are friends.  And, I understand yours has the blood of the fey.  Would it be rude of me to ask, if you do as well?"

Rila simply smiles, lifting one corner of her mouth a bit higher before her ears perk up at the orders.  Quickly, she walks over and takes the order, filling up the mugs as quickly as she can, leaving one each for the boys at the table, before returning to Sejana and plopping a fresh one right in front of her.

"The boys back there bought you a drink, and bid you welcome to their table, if you like.  Sounds like they know Master Solanus- but I'll make sure to let Ki know to hit him up for the money."

Then, giving Sejana a quick wink, she continues, a bit louder, enough for Tic and his bunch to hear, once they'd all taken some nice big swallows of the booze.

"Though if he refuses to pay, I sure know I wouldn't want to be the ones Ki ends up having to teach a lesson, hm?  I mean, it's just a couple of coins, but it's the principle of the thing, you know?  Just... Calistrians, am I right?"

She chuckles brightly, a brilliant grin on her face as she wipes the bar clean and then turns to Sejana fully again, lowering her voice.

"Hmmm... our first meeting and already you're wanting to know so many details about me... should I be pouring myself one, and we both should just be sitting at a table?"

She'd wait for Sejana's expression to change, and then just chuckle.

"No, though I wish I did.  Have you seen some of them in real life?  I mean, no wonder she themed the bar the way she did.  I'd give half the coin I've ever seen for a nymph's looks and the other half for a dryad's grace- and then all the jewels for a wardrobe to help me show it off.

As for you... a mysterious, magical enchantress, here to peddle your skills for a price?  Or a charming rogue, here to beguile me out of ale and purse?  I can't very well make my choice."

Rila gives Sejana a smile, one with a bit of wit.

Sejana glanced toward the boisterous halfling and his crew - "Ah, Master Solanus, of course.   Looks like a lively lot.   I've met so few halflings -  I'll go and sit with them, a bit later."   She waved at them with one hand, raised the drink with the other, to convey thanks.   Then smiled at Rila.

"I have a strong curiosity; it gets me in trouble, sometimes.   And my people are accused of being presumptuous. Though I try not to be typical."  She smiled again.   "I had to leave because I wasn't. Anyway, I would be delighted to sit with you, and hear your story.  I'm betting you have a very intriguing one."

On the topic of the fey -- "Ah...seen them.  No, I have not.  Certainly not the sort you speak of.    Not far from where I grew up, there's a charming place called the Hagwood.    The being who holds sway there would not tolerate a dryad, I am rather sure.  Though she keeps a retinue of far less lovely, more vicious kinds of fey."    Sejana took a sip of her drink.

"I have beheld an erniyes -- oh so majestic with her great black wings; her beautiful, bruised countenance, her burning bow.   But, what she did to her quarry...out in the public square..." Sejana shivered, had another sip of drink, then turned to more pleasant topics.

"To call me enchantress would be such a stretch. I've a little inborn magic, but no great power will ever be mine. And I'm no rogue -- rather the daughter of a merchant family, who arrived here hoping to find honest work.   Which I did --  Alisa D'Medvyed has placed me in charge of the Sisters occult shop, in the college district.   For me, it is heaven out here --  a place where I can be myself, live quietly - though not without passion and fun, of course..." 

* * * * * (Some time, perhaps two weeks or so, after the preceding scene)

It had been something of a long day at Sisters --   generally, she enjoyed the people who came in, most of them a pleasure to speak with, many of them dedicated students at the college.   However, today had been something of a parade of vexing individuals:  the middle-aged, glowering house wife; determined to use her small understanding of witchcraft to expose her husband's alleged infidelity, and curse his manhood.   The petulant, pushy, over grown brat who fancied himself a wizard, who seemed to think that staring unblinkingly into an unfamiliar woman's eyes, and breathing hard, was a way to her heart.

And then the man with the long, grey, natty beard and the twitching eye -  muttering obscene poetry under his breath in the Infernal dialect.  Which, being a native of Cheliax, Sejana was ever so fluent in.   It had been more than a small relief, once he'd quit browsing, and finally departed.

Sejana had been semi-scowling by the time the note arrived; her normally fresh and friendly demeanor worn away through attrition. But upon recognizing its bearer as an employee of Lady Kiera's Nereid, her expression lightened and grew curious.  She accepted it, read...and then smiled.

Ah, that is lovely...how wonderful! Rescued from the dregs of an up till now crap day! Upon first meeting Rila, she had hoped for the opportunity - but then wasn't so sure.  Rila had come by the shop a number of times, yet had seemed just a little...standoffish?   And perhaps, Sejana considered, she had seemed so in return?  Well, no matter; the bridge was now clear to cross.

So...what to wear? She had other clothes upstairs, where she sometimes slept.  However, she always strove to dress well for work, and was pleased with the white silk blouse, floral maxi skirt, and soft leather heel boots she had on; instinct suggested to go how Rila was used to seeing her, rather than anything drastically different.  She did however, do some maintenance on her hair, with fingers and comb, clipping it back with a silver circle-barrette.   Desna's glittering veil! Yes, some excellent company after this most trying day, it's exactly what I need...

 * * * * *  (er, not sure if it's walking distance, or if carriages are available - Sejana's not much of a horseback rider - but somehow she gets there...)

Sejana entered the Nereid, an almost beatific smile on her lips.   She spotted Rila, who was busy as usual, and waved once she caught her eye.   She mouthed I'll be over there, indicating her favorite spot along the western wall, that was out of the main flow of traffic.

Ooc

College (sisters of the moon) and Lakeside (the Neirid) are two neighbouring areas of Tisk.  It is probably a 15-20 minute walk at most.

the is a map of Tisk on the game website.  I'll  link it when I get home.

OOC: Tisk?  Where is this Tisk? :P

It had been a busy day at the Nereid- like most days.  It had, of course, started with the gruff miner who had come in and tried to complain that his ale had been watered down, and as such he wasn't willing to pay more than half for what he'd been served- this, of course, after four mugs of their best.  By her word, she'd accepted the payment, and then offered him one on the house as 'forgiveness'- and as he drank, tried to keep him there long enough.

Watching him scoot up the street twenty minutes later in obvious distress had been satisfying, and with any luck, he'd be wondering what he'd eaten.

Then it had been calling a halt to more shenanigans in the back booth- a couple students from a nearby serai pouring drinks into one of their own.  Though they'd been surprised when one of their teachers had shown up and had the lot of them dragged back, she'd simply shrugged.  There was a reason the boss had tried her best to foster good relationships with every single one- and why she'd made sure they recognized each uniform when they'd come in.

But thankfully, it was shaping up to be a quiet evening- or, well... it had been.

She blinked as Sejana had shown up... and waved.

Well, this is certainly... new. The thought crossed her mind, and she waved back, quickly snatching up a bit of parchment and a bit of something to write with- only to have them snatched out of her hands by a second server, who motioned Rila to the same table Sejana was sitting at.

"You're on break, for as long as you need.  Boss insisted.  Go have a few, doesn't look like a hard night."

With a flat look, Rila just seemed to let it happen.  There was something odd going on... but looking back at the table, she just seemed... a little okay with it?

Taking the opportunity to slide into a chair across from Sejana, she sighed, a bit of coloration on her cheeks.  She still wore her work get-up: the green shirt, the knee-length skirt (though she sat quite carefully), and a pair of nice, soft boots.

"So... fancy meeting you here?"

...what did one say, in a time like this?

"...things busy over at the Sisters, today?  Seemed like a lot of people passing in and out, but..."

She was rambling.  Oh, this was not going to end well... but still, she kept a stiff upper lip.

Sejana laughed lightly at the 'fancy meeting you here,' remark, mistaking it as a jest.

She nodded, as regards a busy day at Sisters "You could say so. Some most...interesting characters. You must meet a few yourself, and know how that goes, I am sure." She smiled, shrugged.  "Occupational hazard, in  taverns and magic supply shops. So I am learning."   She noted that Rila might be just a bit uncomfortable.   She smiled, attempting to help her feel at ease, and convey there need be no pressure here.

"I so appreciate you taking time off to meet with me.  Are you certain your boss is okay with it?  Alisa describes her as having a kind heart.  But I know this business is something she and you take seriously." 

"...well, I think it's a perk of the job that I actually get to deal with them, myself.  I mean, I guess you can't exactly do anything about them over at Sisters- you just have to... smile, and hope they catch the hint, and leave and never come back?

...to be honest, I don't think I could keep taking it without giving it right back to them, like you can.  I mean, if you like, I could see about trying to hand you a way to get rid of the really bad ones, if you like?"

She'd shrug, smiling a bit- but not a cocky one, like she normally wore- but instead, one more shy- with a bit of a blush.

But as Sejana brought up the second part, Rila shook her head, that smile still in place.

"Well, it's been quiet so far- and there's half-again as many as usually needed, so I imagine someone from on high had an idea this was going to happen.  I don't know why, but... I'll just pretend to be a little miffed about it later and maybe do a little something in exchange, but..."

She'd been talking for a while now, but then looked at the table, and pinked up.

"...and I forgot to even ask if you wanted anything to drink.  I, well... I suppose you can just pick something.  We have a few new things in- bit of sweet mead in that the boss says goes really well with some applejack, but the mead all on its own is really good, too.  Have some new wines in, but if you just want an ale, that's fine, too- just put some news ones in this morning."

"Hmm.  Hand me a way -  we aren't talking about a frying pan, are we?   That might be tempting, but I think not good for business.  No, seriously, the worst are more aggravating than anything, and there are not so many. In general, the customers are fun to talk to, and pleasant.  No one's come in drunk yet, or been aggressive.   Still, I am alone there, at times;  it will change, as we add more staff.  I believe Alisa is going to supply a wand, I can keep beneath the counter.  But in the meanwhile, I confess I'm curious about this way you mention." 

As to the drink- "Yes, that would be great, thank you.  I'm usually a wine drinker, but I think I'll do something different.  Let me try the mead & applejack - I wager your boss knows what she's talking about."

Raising a hand, one of the other servers darts over- and after some murmuring, within minutes there are two drinks on the table- as well as a small leather pouch.

"We still don't have a name for it.  All I know is it's still pretty decent- it's better than the apple swill she keeps getting for herself- the mead moderates the sharpness of it and makes it more like tart, honeyed apples.

Still wish I knew what to call it."

But taking the pouch, Rila smirks lightly as she opens it- and plucks a small, wooden token from it. It's just a simple little thing- bearing a small mark on one side, and an image of a bunch of green grapes on the other.

Nodding, Rila lets her smirk form into a smile and pushes the small bag across the table.

"If you have someone you want to get rid of- I mean, well... who really deserves it- they're making you uncomfortable, or they're just plain annoying to the point where you want them away?  Give them one of these and tell them it's good for a free drink at the Nectar- we'll know what the token means- it'll entitle them to one nice tankard of ale.  We'll just take it from there, trust me on that.

Not many will turn down a free drink, trust me."

Leaving the pouch on the table, Rila takes a sip of her drink, and quirks her head.

"...well, it beats a lot of the things I tried to brew myself, a while ago, I know that much."

She tried the beverage, arched a brow - "Mm...it's tasty...it is like tart, honeyed apples." On the topic of names:

"Well, how about 'them apples' --  as in 'how do you like them apples?'" she laughed, plainly only jesting.   "Or perhaps 'saved by the mead'? No, I'm terrible at this, I think I'll quit while I'm ahead!"

She accepted the bag, smiling, remarking "Oh, I don't doubt," as regards few turning down a free drink.  "I could pry for what happens next -- but I've got a pretty good imagination, and I like a bit of mystery. Thank you," she acknowledged sincerely, for offering a way out of unpleasant company.

"Brewing is no talent of my own either," she offered. "Not that I've tried. I don't think the world needs to find out."     She had another sip of the drink.

"So, Rila; you know, the local talk I hear says you just sort of appeared one day, to take the job.  And that's as it may be;  but you must have appeared from somewhere.  Even if you're a jinn, and it was from out of a bottle.    You can decline to answer, in the name of mystique, of course.   Or if it's something you just don't talk about. I don't want to tread on anything personal or painful, but I do confess my curiosity."   

She winced a bit- yeah, she hadn't been expecting this.  But still... she shrugs, and takes a deep breath.

"...well... if you really want to know... I was fresh into town, and saw this place in the process of getting ready to open- and they were stocking the kitchens and unloading in barrels of ale.  I was down to a bit of silver, so..."

She takes a big sip of her drink, and then gives Sejana a wan smile.

"I got a cheap room for a few nights, and... cased the Nectar.  I watched it for a few days, and then, on the last night I was supposed to be in town... I, well... broke in.  Figured at the very least I could grab a few bottles and some food, maybe see if there was anything worth anything to steal.

Not proud of myself for that one, but... I was young- still am, and anyone who says otherwise, well... but I was stupid.  I mean, not 'tossed rocks at a hive of angry wasps'-type stupid, but... still, really stupid."

Rila sighs and adjusts her posture.

"I was bent over the bar, very sure I was alone... and then suddenly I look up and there's two small glasses on the bar, and she's perched right on a seat, leaning over and looking at me.  'So what do you recommend?'  I hadn't even heard her come down the stairs- if she'd had a weapon, I think I'd be dead.

First time Ki made me jump in surprise, and I kind of figured I was doomed.  But she just told me to sit down- helped herself to a bottle of that applejack she drinks so much of and poured me a bit, told me to drink, and well... we just started to talk.  Finished two bottles of that stuff and saw the sun come up, but... when it was all done, I was still kind of worried- I mean, here I was, caught red-handed, and I figured she was going to turn me in, now that she'd had her fun.

Nope- we raided the kitchen, slapped together what we could as far as food, ate something for breakfast, and she takes me upstairs.  I'm thinking 'oh, she's one of those'- and she just opens a door, and tells me to go on in and get some sleep- and if I was still here in a few hours when she woke up, we'd talk more.

So... kinda drunk, full belly, hadn't slept- yeah, I passed out.  Woke up, and there she was, downstairs talking with some people.  Turns to me, introduces me as the first hire for the Nectar's management.  I'm still bleary from sleep and have no idea what she's talking about- and before long, she's dragging me all over Tusk, making sure I have clean clothes, some food stashed away, and before long, she's renting me rooms out of her own pocket for a month.  Dragged me to the baths, told me to wash up, and to show up bright and early tomorrow to get my uniform.

...I asked her 'why'.  She gave me a smile, and just said 'I've been there.  Besides, what's better- ending up labeled a criminal and getting branded or something, or finding a steady job that doesn't care you've got a weal ribbon in your hair?  Besides, you can pay me back when you can.'

She didn't mind that, either?  You know how many towns and camps I've run out of because they either thought I was, well... easy... or because someone up top didn't approve of the Lady in the Room being mentioned around impressionable minds?

...that's when I decided to stick around.  Because she could have thrown me away, with the rest of the trash, simply because of what she found me doing- but instead... Ki washed me off, shined me up, and let me be me.  Sure, we still grouse and fight once in a while, but... to be honest, I'm still nervous coming around most places in Tusk.  I keep expecting that someone's going to pin me to the ground and take me into custody for trying to rob the Nectar, and well... there are still people who look at my ribbon and just... look at me.

So... I tend to limit where I go.  I stay here... maybe try to learn more at the library... but shiny magic things have always intrigued me-"

Rila just paused, a mildly stricken look on her face as she realized what she'd pretty much just said.

"...you don't have to worry, I'm not going to take anything from Sisters.  You'd never let me come back in and I like stopping in to see how things are.  It's calm and quiet and it kind of smells nice and, well... I always get asked how I'm doing, and, well... I keep hoping you have something interesting I could afford someday.  Maybe something like a little rock with a bit of light applied to it so I can keep it in my room and use it to read and things by."

Finally coming to a stop, Rila takes another drink, and sighs.

"...I know.  It's a lot to take in- if you wanted to leave, well... I wouldn't blame you."

Minia stood looking up at the sign for a good long while. The . . . nymph's ale? The sign was a shy fey with a beer . . . wasn't it supposed to be a nereid? What was a nereid mind you? A sort of tree of sorts, if it had nectar? Or was nectar a fruit thing?

Either way, seemed it was the right place, judging by the townsfolk she'd asked. Minia shifted her belt a bit to move her blade behind her. Trouble came in places like this when you were too forceful, she'd need to put on a face first.

Checking her smile in the window glass she combed her hair with her fingers and entered, immediately assaulted by the sights and smells of the art and food.

She approached the bar and looked around at the seats, a bit lost. Then she looked at the floor and her boots, trailing in a pattern of bootprints from the outside . . .

"Hello? I was told by Lady Kiera that I was to come to discuss details. Well my sister and I but I thought I'd come myself first . . . "

That she was saying this to anyone who would help her was a bit odd . . .

Sejana had sat listening raptly, throughout the tale; brows arching slightly up at several points. Her answering smile was also wan.

"If I did want to leave, then it would be no loss to you, the departure of someone so shallow, so quick to judge. Hm.  So you're a law-breaker. You know, I come from a place utterly thick with laws.  Rigidly detailed, sternly enforced. Without room for mercy, compassion, or kindness.  And, I dreamed of escaping to some place, where those things are practiced.   I am glad to hear a story that underscores that I succeeded in doing so."        She paused, smiled more warmly.

"It's quite a story.  Charming, humorous, and heart warming - something you might expect a bard to tell audiences, in a place like this.  I'm glad you found a harbor. I have a hunch you deserved one, more than you seem to think.   And I'm not concerned you'll steal from Sisters.  At least, I'll take my chances," she winked, smiled again.

"You didn't answer my question - where you came from - but I only say so to let you know I pay attention, not to pry.  I'll see what I can do as to the illumi-stone.   I believe we can help you out.  So.  What do you like to read? What is it you are striving to learn?    You can, if you wish, answer with another charming story. I am all ears."   

"Well... let's just say... southwest of here.  Further than Pitax, but nearer than Kyonin or Razmiran, thank the Sting.  I just... my home doesn't really have a great reputation, and the people there, I would happily pitch into the Eye of Abendago if it meant never having to see them again.  On the other hand, I'm not their favorite person, anymore, but I don't know if they're the kind of people to come find me or not."

Rila just shrugs a bit, and then continues.

"As for what I read, well... I'll read anything if I can understand it.  History, legends, maybe the occasional tale of courtly intrigue and romance-"

She'd flush a bit at that last one, scratching her ear.

"-which are a perfectly acceptable thing to read, no matter how many people say otherwise.  Sometimes it's nice to fall asleep thinking you're a beautiful bard saving the prince- or princess- from a nasty plot meant to take over the palace, or a brave warrior chopping down hordes of oncoming enemies... or a priest, leading the faithful against the hordes of darkness..."

She flushes again.

"...it's cheaper than spending time elsewhere, it's hard to drink and read at the same time, and before you know it it's past time to get some sleep or you just fall asleep in your bed."

As Rila chatters on, a second waitress walks up to Minia, motioning towards the stairs.

"She mentioned you might be dropping by- it's up the stairs, to the left.  Feel free to settle in, and if you need help with something, check in with someone working.  I don't know when the boss will be back, but I'm pretty sure we can get you all tucked in."

The room up the stairs would be pretty cozy for its size, though- even if it was only a bed, a chest of drawers, a table, and a chair.  The blankets were soft, though, and it was clean.

"If you want to add anything, feel free- just try not to break anything too badly if you move it around- and feel free to have company by.  Noise isn't really a problem here."

Sejana listened carefully to all of it.  "We've a few things in common.  I'm also from south and west of these lands...but much, much further so than Kyonin.  And I too was an ill fit for my home and its people; who likewise do not enjoy a good reputation abroad."   As to Rila's taste in literature, she proclaimed "Ha! You preach to the choir, when it comes to such tales!  'When the body cannot travel, the mind yet has pages for wings.' So one of my favorite authors wrote.   Certainly, I was borne to better places on such wings. So, I well relate to what you say."

She had another sip of her beverage. "You know, there's a particular game I found amongst the odds & ends in our inventory.  I've been dying for a chance to play it; maybe, it would be something you'd like..." 

:: I'm unclear whether Darius will be coming in on the heels of this, or if we need a time shift for this next scene.  I'll let Rila's player decide, as it's her place. But any case, eventually...

"I think Lord Marik's man should be here, fairly soon.   Do you know, I heard his metals operation is run by a kobold.  I've not ever met a kobold, have you-?"
This message was last edited by the player at 03:12, Wed 23 Dec 2020.

"I could arrange an introduction if you'd like," Darius says with a warm smile as he enters the Nectar, having overhead just the last of Sejana's words. A raven sat on his right shoulder just long enough for him to fully enter the bar, and then flew up to take a perch in the rafters. "Sejana, it is a pleasure to see you again," he said as he slowly approached her table.

His gaze, and smile, turned to fall on the flame-haired woman she had been talking to, "My apologies, I am Darius, Advocate of Laird Marik Aeris, and patron of fine drinking establishments." He takes a moment to look around and admire the artwork on the walls, "And I can say I'm quite sorry it has taken me this long to visit."

He turns back to Sejana, "I am already indebted to you for introducing me to such a wondrous place. May I buy you a drink in return?"

Minia smiled at the waitress and nodded

"Thank you!"

She tried not to bound up the stairs as she went. Lady Kiera had offered help to her and her sister at the wedding and it was help they dearly needed.

Finding the room, she took her boots off and set them aside, for fear of messing up yet more furnishings. She sat on the bed, marveling at the softness. Her own bed was charitably one at that, a mat of woven reeds in the sisters' shared hovel

She might have lay down. Might have dozed off at that . . .

Sejana likewise smiled.   "Ah, welcome, master Darius.  While I of course couldn't know for sure, I'd a hunch these environs might be to your liking.  It is my personal favorite, albeit the Den is wonderful too." She indicated politely the redhead- "This is Rila, the friend I mentioned. The Roths should be jealous Lady Raincutter hired her before they got the chance, I think."   

"How kind of you," she replied as to the drink. "I wouldn't in fact turn it down.  And, as regards an introduction to your kobold colleague, I'd have to think on that." She smiled.  "I'd want to know what to bring a kobold.  With the understanding ladyfingers aren't on the menu," she added, plainly in jest.

Darius turned his smile back to Rila, "Rila, it's a pleasure to meet you. May I offer you a drink as well?"

He then turned back to Sejana, "Lady Raincutter you say? Is she the owner? I'm not sure that I've heard of her, is she new to Tusk?" He motioned to the chair opposite of her, and assuming she doesn't protest he pulls it out and takes a seat. "As for Pekwik, he's not exactly what you might expect in a kobold. He's surprisingly well-spoken, well in Draconic at least, his common is still a little broken, but he's actually quite the mandolin player. I'd imagine a nice bottle of wine would be plenty to get you in his good graces," he adds with a playful wink.

She waved toward the chair, "Yes, sorry, my manners are terrible. Please, sit down.  And pardon my humor.  I've no doubt, if your lord employs him in such a position, then he must be civilized and quite capable.  And he plays the mandolin?  Hm, I think we need to have him here, one night."   

"Lady Kiera Raincutter-Solanus is the Nereid's owner.  Adopted cousin of the same family my employer recently married into, and one of her dearest friends.   As to being new to Tusk..." she bit her lip, glanced at Rila, "...I don't know how long she's been here?   But if you've heard the name 'Kiera' locally, then you likely have heard of her. She doesn't really go by 'Lady Raincutter,' though is entirely worthy of the respect."   

"...I've never had a chance to meet a kobold, no.  From what I know of them, they'd be more inclined to either kill or eat me as much as look at me... then again, all I've really done is read about them..."

She shook her head, but then watched as Darius made his way over to them, and she kept an eye on his raven, even as it flew up.

"...for your sake, I hope your bird knows enough to not lighten his load up there.  It's a pain to get up there in the first place, and I'd have to charge you- or leave you to the boss's mercies."

She'd give Darius a bit of a grin, trying to show it wasn't all bad, but at the same time, when he offered to buy drinks, she just nodded.

"Feel free.  I guess I could use another...  We have ale, wines, pretty much all different things- if you're feeling up to it, I recommend a bit of the boss's stash- it's pretty solid applejack, but it'll knock you on your rump if you're not careful."

Finally, as they started talking about Kiera, she let a bit of a smile light her features.

"From what I hear, she signed on with Henry about the same time Sejana's boss did- it might explain why they get along so well.  But still... there are parts of that woman that are clear as mud... but I know she'd shake off the idea she's owed respect.  Like I said, clear as mud."

Rila pauses, and shakes her head.

"As for me, well... I just got lucky that the staff is a bunch of good eggs, so they're not really a handful.  They're the ones who have to deal with things; I just make decisions and things is all.  Each one of them is a credit to how smooth things are around here- even when we get the troublemakers in here.

So, let's figure out what we all want- I'm feeling a bit like mead, myself.  Just something to nurse on- not heavy enough to send you babbling, but enough to keep the conversation going..."

Sejana had seen the raven, and presumed it a familiar.  Ravens were a relatively popular choice back home.  She was curious, but it wasn't perhaps the best sort of question to ask a new acquaintance.

"The applejack is very tasty," she enthused.  As well as a bit too strong for a business interaction. "But I think I'll just have a glass of wine. Rosé, if you've got it, otherwise white will be fine." 

At an appropriate moment, she queried Darius:  "So, now.  I'm aware your lord has a variety of enterprises.  For what, specifically, is he trying to raise capital?"

"I'm sure Pekwik would enjoy a chance to entertain here, assuming I can get him over his stage fright," he says with a slight chuckle. "You might say he is a bit of an anomaly within his clan, and he's still working through some of the confidence issues that come with being ostracized for most of his life. But he's actually a pretty good guy once you get to know him, and has done good work for Laird Aeris."

When Rila spoke up, he turned and nodded to her and then glanced up at the raven, "Aleira? No, she absolutely knows better than to relieve herself indoors. I promise, she will be no problem, she just likes to sit up high when she can...she's a bit of busybody and likes to watch everything going on from up there."

"Now," he says as he smiles to Rila and then turns to Sejana, "with a recommendation from both of you, I must try this applejack. And I have in fact heard of Kiera; I just hadn't realized she was a Lady. But I definitely have to commend her on her establishment."

As Sejana turned the conversation to work, he leaned back comfortably in the chair and shrugged slightly, "Well, I can't say for certain what exactly this particular loan would be used for, my associate Alanna, Laird Aeris' chancellor, would be more appropriate to answer that. But I can tell you generally it would be used to further develop the village, pardon me, town of New Dawn. Have you heard of it? It's south of Outpost and just east of Hunter's Rest. It's actually growing quite nicely. They have a Road House there run by a priest of Cayden Cailean and a goldsmith there making jewelry from gold mined not far from there. From what I understand, Alanna, she handles the day-to-day managing of New Dawn, has worked out an agreement with the local farmers to establish a market in the town square and is planning to expand the town guard presence as the town grows."
This message was last updated by the player at 17:37, Tue 29 Dec 2020.

Sejana nodded, "I have heard of New Dawn -- further to the north of us than both Silverton and Kunlun.  A lovely choice of name, for an up and coming town. The Dwarvish clan Silverhammer has a holding there, so I understand.   My employer's lord husband does business with a very talented mason of that same clan." She was thoughtful a moment.

"Of course, in most cases, we would want to know specifically what is being done with the loan funds. However, it is a small loan.  And, she has rather a fondness for new settlements where honest folk can found safe homesteads, and live with dignity. New Dawn sounds like such a place. A market and more guards would surely enhance what it already offers.  It may be that she would want to write the chancellor for a list of specifics, at some point.  But, I strongly suspect, she would approve regardless, and has authorized me to use my own judgement.   As said, there's no interest on the loan, as long as it is repaid in full in the next quarter.   Is that doable?"   

Darius nods, "Yes, the goldsmith I spoke of is actually a member of clan Silverhammer. And I'm sure Alanna would be happy to explain the particulars should you employer request such. Otherwise, yes, I believe we have an agreeable arrangement," he says as he leans forward and smiles.

"So I understand you work at Sisters of the Moon, yes? I've been meaning to stop by and update my selection of reagents and components. How did you get into that line of work?"

"Well, that's either a long or a short story.   It is long if it takes into account how I left home, and ended up all the way out here.   But from there, it is short: down on my luck after things didn't go to plan, I chanced to be at a little roadside inn where I happened to meet Alisa - née D'Medvyed, now Medvyed-Solanus - and she seemed to sense I could use a sympathetic ear.   As we spoke, I mentioned my background; I'm from a merchant family, and was educated to be part of their business.  Before things...grew complicated.   As well, I am what you would call an adept; the sort that casts intuitively.  My talents are minor, I'll never be a proper mage, but I can read magic, and am pretty handy at identifying the properties of items.   These things together were a good fit in what Alisa was seeking for her new business.   And the rest, as they say, is history."    She took a sip of what remained of her first drink.

"And what of yourself?  I'm supposing there is some intriguing tale as to how you came to be in Lord Marik's employ."

She'd wave over one of the girls, and soon enough, a platter of drinks was placed onto the table- setting a small cup and a bottle in front of her, a glass of rose in front of Sejana, and another small bottle of amber liquid and small glass in front of Darius- there's a slight smell of apple he can notice already, even before he pulls off the cap.

"Pace yourself with that, mind you- it's good, but it's strong."

She'd pour a small cup of the mead for herself, and then take a sip- nodding at the taste, while listening a bit to the conversation.

"Indeed.  I mean, we all came here from somewhere... I guess it really just goes to show this is a place where anyone can be anything, as long as they're willing to put in the effort.

I wouldn't mind knowing as well, to be honest.  My own story might not even be half as exciting.  But dwarves?  Kobolds?  It certainly sounds like an interesting place."

Darius nods throughout Sejana's tale, his eyes clearly focused on her as he listened intently. "Ah, yes," he said in reply to her description of her arcane talents, "Much like Lord Aeris; he is a sorcerer if you weren't aware." He turned to Rila and gave an acknowledging nod to her warning a proceeded to pour himself a glass of the applejack.

He takes a sip, and then smiles to them both, "As you said, this is quite good, and rather potent. As for me, my tale I guess is somewhat similar to your own," he says with a nod to Sejana. "I too was born into a merchant family, in Brevoy, a quite successful one in fact. But I wasn't trained for the family business. No, at an early age my tutors noticed a...well let's call it a knack, for the arcane arts, so I was enrolled at an Arcane Academy once I was of age. Things were quite exciting initially, and I must say I was pretty good at it," he says with a slight smirk. he takes another sip of the applejack. "But after a few of years...well, let's just say I started to notice that I enjoyed the company of the fairer sex more than my books. Eventually I spent more time enjoying establishments such as this," he says as he once again looks around the bar, "with the company of lovely young women such as yourselves, rather than the dank, dark libraries filled with musty tomes at the Academy."

"Needless to say, my study habits began to falter and I was eventually asked to leave. There was no way my family was going to take me back in, so I decided to set out on my own. I had started hearing rumors of Lord Henry's expedition in Midmarch, and decided to check it out for myself. I'd been in Tusk for just a couple of months when I met Lord Aeris and he asked me to take care of his affairs here in Tusk when he is off on his adventures. All in all, I think it has worked out well for me. I get to meet the most interesting people here," he adds with a wink.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:50, Sun 03 Jan 2021.

"Thank you," she smiled at Rila, as the glass of wine was placed in front of her.   And added, as regards the personal opportunity to be found in these lands, "You are right about that.  And that sort of freedom is dear to me.  It was not so where I came from."

To Darius, in reference to meeting interesting people, she returned the wink "Concurred.  And no -- I was aware that your lord is a magic worker, but presumed some sort of wizard.  I was always just as glad I didn't have to go the route of dank, dark libraries.  I well grasp your frustration.    My family did want me to have training in formal spellcraft, mostly so I might use what I had to aid the business.  But I studied at home, under a tutor."   She shook her head.  "I find magic interesting, useful.  But, I've never lusted for power.   The ways it was often used back home," she shook her head again, frowned, "Unclean. It wasn't a good example."  Sejana took a taste of the rosé, and her expression lightened again, in obvious approval.   She looked to Darius once more.

"So. Quite the carouser, are you?  Mysterious, confident, good with your hands, from all the somatic practice -  women notice the hands, more than you may think --  I wager you find company readily enough," she nodded in affirmation.

Darius smiled, and blushed slightly, at Sejana's comment, "I suppose I have been known to carouse on occasion, and there is always some sort of company to find if one knows where to look," he says with a smirk. "But good company? That is quite rare, and always something to savor when one finds it."

He shrugs and takes another sip, "But yes, much like any sort of power, magic can be used for great good or unthinkable evil. And unfortunately, the sheer magnitude of the power achievable can make it quite intoxicating to those interested in power for it's own sake."

Sejana was authentically surprised at having elicited a blush from him; she had admittedly been testing him, a little, based on his previous remark about his pursuits. It was not the response she'd expected.  But she liked it better than what she had expected.  And she smiled in return.

"Yes. As in so many things, quality is usually much harder to come by than quantity.   And you are correct as to the seductiveness of occult power. The worst sorts of people cannot resist its lure.   But that power can save lives, too. As for myself, though, I'd rather sing, celebrate life, and strive for excellence in my work," she proclaimed, before bringing her wine glass to her lips.

"So, what do you do with your magic?  Do you have a specialty?" 

Darius reached for the glass of applejack, and then thought better. The stuff was good but quite potent, and he was enjoying the evening and wanted to make sure he remembered it in the morning. "Specialty? Not per se. I guess if anything I use my magic to help me do what I enjoy and what I am employed to do. Lord Aeris asks me to keep tabs on the goings-on of Midmarch and collect what information I can, and I find magic can be helpful in such endeavors. I've also taken to making maps for those interested, although that is purely a non-magical art for me. I guess I enjoy the precision involved with it."

He leaned back in his chair, "I must say, I would love to hear you sing sometime. Do you ever sing publicly, or perhaps entertain private audiences," he adds with a sly smile.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:28, Tue 05 Jan 2021.

She'd nod, listening to the stories, taking sips of her mead from time to time.

"I'd love to be able to cast something, myself- but I think the talent for any magic has left me behind, unfortunately- so I just stand back and point at it.  But Sejana is right- you get all sorts of people involved with magic- you get some that you'd sooner scrape dung off your boots onto, but others are much better.

Seems to me it's a lot like drinking the most delicious booze you've ever had- but at the same time, having the willpower to keep yourself from over-indulging and going too far is also required to avoid becoming one of the former."

Though when it came to singing, she would nod to a small area, off in the midst of some tables.

"If you want, I could find you some time to come in and try your skills with song here- on a slow time of day, so there wouldn't be a lot of pressure... or maybe your boss would let you perform sometime at the shop?  I'd throw in food and a drink or two, if you want..."

Sitting up, she'd smile and lean forward, resting her hands on the table.

I did sing here once, impromptu; it's back in the first couple of posts, that is how we originally began talking.   

"The opera is popular where I come from.   And I wanted so badly to be in it, and began training for it in my youth.   That didn't happen, but I continue to practice, and have sung at various gatherings and functions.   Usually in less formal styles.  Have not done any private shows, as yet." 

On work related matters, she added- "I believe you and I have been tasked to do much the same thing; the gathering of information.  Unlike you, I'm not a native of this region. So I've had a bit of a learning curve; but I've worked hard, and learned a fair bit. It might behoove us to meet now and then and trade information, if that interests you." 

"A very sharp analogy," she smiled at Rila, once she drew the comparison between magic use and alcohol.

"Ah, my boss wouldn't care, if I wanted to do something after hours, at Sisters, I'm rather sure.   But I prefer the tavern environment, and specifically the Nereid.  If Kiera is okay with it...that would be great!  What would be really great, eventually, is to have some sort of talent night, with a number of performers.  That kind of thing is so much fun."

"Any opportunity to spend more time with you, Sejana, interests me, even if it is within the context of work. And I can only imagine that you," he says with a nod to Rila, "learn many quite interesting things working here as well." His gaze stays on Rila as he continues, "And as Sejana said, your analogy is quite accurate; the power of magic can be truly quite intoxicating and the lust for more can truly consume one if they're not careful."

His hand reached out to touch the glass of applejack and he paused for a moment, before deciding one more sip couldn't hurt. As he placed the glass back down he turned back to Sejana, "And please do let me know when you next perform, there is a beauty in song that is found so rarely anywhere else.
This message was last updated by the player at 19:19, Wed 06 Jan 2021.

She nodded, smiled. "There's an old Varisian saying I love, which sums it up for me: 'Close your eyes. Listen. Nothing is missing.' And yes, now that you mention, Rila probably knows more than the both of us together!" 

"Hmm," Darius says in reply to the Varisian saying. "I like it, and quite appropriate. Although if you were singing, I feel that I would prefer to keep my eyes open," he says with a smile.

He then turns his focus to Rila, "So Rila, would you like to join our information gathering cabal? We could meet regularly and share what new information we've learned, and enjoy some good drink and good company."

Sejana nodded once more, "And of course if we meet here, that would make it convenient enough."   

Darius nodded, "Ah yes, that would be perfect. Is there perhaps a private room that we could rent to ensure our conversations remain private during these meetings?" he asks as he glances around the tavern.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:37, Fri 08 Jan 2021.

"I suppose we could, yes.  I mean, yes, I'd like that."

Maybe it was the mead talking, but she'd actually found herself having a little bit of fun.  It was, well... nice, having people to talk to.  She'd take another sip of her mead, and actually crack a hint of a smile, looking at the other two.

"As far as a private room, well... we have a few, upstairs.  The boss lives out of the biggest one, one's occupied right now... but there's a few more we could use, and I can always just keep a key back and have some drinks and food sent up.  Call it a perk of knowing the manager.

And as far as singing, well... the boss has an idea.  I think it's pretty funny, but it's for a cause she's growing kind of fond of... but it just depends how many others she can talk into getting involved with it.  But you're always welcome to come by and sing, when you like.  I'll even cover something on the house for you."

Sejana smiled at Rila's more emphatic yes. I believe she'd be quite the social butterfly, if she'd allow herself.  As to the rooms upstairs she agreed:

"Well, it sounds about perfect to me, as long as it is acceptable to your boss. Does it work for you, master Darius? I'll bring some top quality seeds for Aleira. She'd likely prefer a mouse, but I'm not going to pack one of those."

She'd had no idea that Kiera primarily lived here.   It was the opposite of Sisters, where Alisa only rarely put in an appearance; though maternity and marriage were surely a large part of that.

She grinned "Oh, come on, now I'm fairly dying to hear about this idea!  Is it a mandatory secret?  Any case, tavern singing is mostly all fun. I've got a small repertoire of songs at the ready." 
This message was last edited by the player at 02:17, Sun 10 Jan 2021.

Darius nods to Sejana and then turns to Rila, "I think that sounds like a wonderful idea. And," he says as he turns to Sejana, "I'm sure Aleira would be happy to be doted on however you choose to do so."

He took another measured sip of his applejack and smiled slyly at Rila, "Yes, I feel like this is the first bit of information that should be shared with the cabal. What exactly is this idea your boss has?"


------------------------------------------------------------
End of Conversation
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This message was last edited by the GM at 06:57, Fri 14 Oct 2022.

It had been some time since the last time Barbatius had been at the Nectar, his training and adventuring had taken longer than expected but now it was time to let his hair down a little.  He walked up to the bar and ordered an ale before settling down at a table and waiting to see who would be in tonight.

A few of the old regulars he recognised and he had made sure to let Kiera know he was in.  "It's good to b back." he muttered to himself.

Kiera nods at Barbatius's greeting, and smiles at her old friend. However, she is quite busy behind the bar, and contents herself with a few words and pouring him a free beer.

OOC:  Just a heads-up, Kiera's player left us, and she is now a DM controlled NPC

Orienting herself in Tusk, the Nereid had been highly recommended by her new employer. (probably new employer; for there were still some particulars to be worked out)

On first take, Socha liked the overall character of the place.  And, in a room full of total strangers, she spotted at least one she thought she recognized.

"Hey there, big man," she greeted amiably, in the informal manner she tended to when formality wasn't required.

"The lady of Medvyed-Solanus pointed you out, once.  You're the lord's squire, isn't that right?" 

Barbatius wore a clean but plain blue tunic over hose and riding boots, a baldric ran from his right shoulder to left hip from which swung his dueling sword.  He smiled and said "Aye, that's me Socha isn't it, join me for a drink or three." Barbatius said with a wave towards the spare chairs at the table.  "The boss said you are thinking about a position in the house working forbher Ladyship, is that right?"

Jensen had never been inside this particular bar before. So it may have come as something of a surprise to patrons and staff members alike to see the lanky paladin walk in, his banded mail gleaming almost as if brand new. He took in the room and those who were present, and did his best to not look uncomfortable.

It had been suggested, on more than one occasion, and by more than one person, that Jensen should socialize a bit more. He was given to understand that many such ‘cohorts’ as himself preferred to drink and carouse in this establishment, and so here he was, deciding what to order.

“I would like a mead, please.”   He finally decided.

"Socha it is," she nodded cheerfully, taking one of the chairs.    "And you heard right.  It's likely I'll be in her ladyship's employ.  Probably going on outings, like yourself, if we come to a final agreement."   

Socha placed an order for her beverage, once the barmaid was handy.   She glanced at the latest patron, as she did.   Recognizing the holy sigil of Sarenrae on the man.  Then looked back to Barbatius.

"Well, so. How do you like being a squire?  Does the lord keep you busy?"

"It's been, well exciting at times boring in others, I'm fortunate I guess, the boss and I have known each other for years and he's pretty casual with friends." He smiles and continues "I'm not really sure I'll be a squire much longer truth be told, Dom is saying I'm just about ready to take the title of Swordlord myself.  I'll still be his man but less of the squire and more companion I think."

Barbatius follows Socha's eyes and sots the paladin at the bar "I think that's Lord Mordane's man Jensen isn't it?  The more the merrier they say." then taking a chance he's right he calls out "Jensen, come join us!"

New to the region, 'Lord Mordane' wasn't truly a familiar name...although not unheard. She was pretty sure someone had mentioned him before.

"Well, congratulation on the promotion.  And on having a boss you can call a friend."

Accepting his mead, Jensen heard his name called and turned to find the source. Upon looking, he immediately recognized Barbatius sitting with a female that he did not recall meeting. Remembering his quest to be more social, Jensen slowly approached the others. “If you are certain it is alright,” the paladin offered. “I wouldn’t want to intrude.”

"No worries, it's not a private party," she assured the man Barbatius had named as Jensen. "Well, so.  You guys come here often?" 

Jensen gently took his seat. “I think this my first time here, actually.” He seemed a bit sheepish with his words. “Most paladins aren’t known to be great carousers. Which is kind of funny because my boss drinks like a fish.”

"I'm curious how that came about, you working for Lord Mordane he doesn't seem like the pious type if you know what I mean." Barbatius shrugged "More unexpected than anything I guess."

Jensen drank of his mead, but slowly. He laughed. “So a lanky farm boy comes riding in on this little mule that everyone swore was three times too small for him. Headed for Tusk to mightily do the work of Saranrae.”

“Who does he meet along the way but the mayor of Tusk himself? They shared a meal together and Cass suggested that if I was looking for adventure that I should follow along with him. He got me my beautiful warhorse, Lily. And he is always trying to feed me, especially when Elkin is around.”

The drink was loosening the paladin’s lips rather quickly. “Not pious in most people’s eyes probably, but Cass isn’t exactly irreverent to the gods. I know he makes his offerings to Cayden, just not devotedly. I think his focus is more on people. Says he was once little more than a gutter rat and he wants to see people elevated to their best. We have talked of building a hospital in the spring.”
This message was last edited by the player at 05:07, Sun 06 Nov 2022.

"Aw, he sounds like a sweetie," remarked Socha, taking a sip of her beverage after it was delivered.

"I'm not exactly pious, in most people’s eyes either.   But, the divine snuck up and found me anyway!  What about you, big-man?  Do you revere the same gods as your liege?"  She asked Barbatius.

"Some of them, Dom is a man of many devotions Iomedae, Shelyn and Desna when he was younger but since meeting Lady Alisa he has started following Acavna as well.  Iomedae it is primarily for me but I pray to Gorum as well and it never hurts to offer a prayer or two to Lady Luck." Barbatius said nodding.

"A hospital is a grand plan Jensen, here in Tusk or further afield?"

“Silverton is my home base, so I will start there. But I would like to see one placed in every area.” The mead was good, but Jensen thought it might be best to add a little food to the mix. “Are you two hungry? I could order us a meal.”

"Oh allow me, after all Kiera and I are old adventuring companions, shall I get today's special it's usually pretty good.  oh and looks like another round of drinks is in order."  Barbatius said with a smile.

"Thanks!  I'm sure the special is great.  I'll offer to pay for the next round, or the next after that, if we get that far!"   

----- New Day -----

It was late and most of the customers had gone home, Barbatius sat with a group of other Aldori.  They had a
L been talking about home.

He wasn't sure who it was who had started humming the tune but it was one they all knew.  Each one had learnt the song on hos mother's knee.  They all began to sing.

When Rostland blooms in the darkness
Her blossoms swing light from each tree
When Restov awakes and spreads fire
It’s then that our land will be free.

I wander her hills and her valleys
And still through my sorrow I see
A land that has never known freedom
And only her rivers run free.

I drink to her sons and her daughters
Those ones who would rather have died
Than to live in the cold chains of bondage
To bring back the rites we’re denied.

Where are you know that we need you,
What thunders where storm used to be?
All gone, like the rains of last season
And only our rivers run free.

How sweet is life but we’re crying
How mellow the mead but we’re dry
How fragrant the grape but its dying
How gentle the wind but its ice.

What good is a youth when its aging
What joy is an eye that can’t see
When there’s sorrow in Rostland
And still only our rivers

As they finished they all smiled to one another finished their drinks and left for the night.

OOC Adapted from Cold wind over Sartar