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Fuzzy: The Dragons Den (Tusk)

Posted by DMFor group 0
DM
GM, 2353 posts
Sun 19 Aug 2018
at 07:46
  • msg #1

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den (Tusk)

A painted sign, showing three green dragons and one white dragon, marks this out as an Inn.  Inside there is one large common room with a stage at one end.  Tables and chairs are scattered around the area, while there are a number of private booths at the opposite end to the stage.  Waiting staff are served from a small bar and servery, and they provide table service for the patrons.

For a few coppers you can get a mug of a local ale or hard cider, or a smaller cup of mead or local wine. A cup of herbal tea (onion or mint) is even cheaper.   There is always a selection of dinners available -  although most people just take the House Stew -  it is always ready to serve and you get a choice of Vegetable, Meat (often game) or Fish (often Eel)  - all served with a freshly cooked flatbread.

There are beds available in the  bunk room for an overnight stay - or you can take a private room, although you will be charged quite a bit extra for that.




This is a Fuzzy Thread that PCs and player-run NPCs can use when you want to.   It is located in Tusk -  but just about everyone needs to come to Tusk occasionally, so I am not going to object if distant NPCs turn up for a short while.  You can meet other PCs here, discuss plans, have assignations or just catch up with your entourage.  In other words - a place for non-combat Role Play.

The listed food and drink is covered by your standard expenses, as is a bunk bed - so you don’t need to account for payment.   If, however, you decide the character wants something fancy or posh -  It can probably be sourced -  BUT  you need to find the money to pay for it :}

For those of you whose characters have a performance skill, please feel free to take the stage and put on a small performance.  I am fairly sure you will spot a few musicians and a performance poet having a go before long.
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:16, Sun 08 Nov 2020.
_ Wyn Roth
NPC, 11 posts
Sun 19 Aug 2018
at 08:05
  • msg #2

Fuzzy: The Dragon's Den

Wyn steps outside onto the street and glances left and right.  Then, with a  wide grin, he twiddles his fingers until a bugle appears in his hands, and he blows a loud fanfare to attract everyone's attention.

"Ladieeeez and gentlemen, the Dragon's Den is now open for business!" He announces in a loud stage voice, before returning back inside the inn - twiddling his fingers as he goes.  By the time he gets to the stage, the bugle has turned into a flute and he launches into a series of folk tunes to help pass the time.
~ Berta Roth
NPC p, 4 posts
Human Female Dragonfriend
Let's do it my way
Sun 19 Aug 2018
at 12:19
  • msg #3

Fuzzy: The Dragon's Den

"I'd swear that flute is enchanted and half the time it's magic that drags the customers in," Berta smiles at Gedd and Winnie as she watches Wyn upon the stage.

"And the other half of the time it's because he's so damned good on it !" this last with a grin at the pair as she repeats a private joke they've heard often enough before.

This day finds the once-warrior-woman behind the bar, her red tresses tied back but still barely under control, drawing drinks for any patrons who belly up to the counter or loading the trays for Winnie and the other servers, leaving Gedd the duty of keeping an eye upon the crowd and making sure they behave themselves.
~ Gedd
NPC p, 6 posts
Gedd Roth
Half-orc archer
Sun 19 Aug 2018
at 13:00
  • msg #4

Fuzzy: The Dragon's Den

Gedd grinned back at Berta.

"Just don't let Wyn hear you say that, even if it is true. He is big-headed enough as it is!" he chuckled.

"Say, who did he find to paint the dragons on the sign out front? They've done a really good job on that."
~ Pete the Poacher
NPC p, 5 posts
Sun 19 Aug 2018
at 17:04
  • msg #5

Fuzzy: The Dragon's Den

Old Pete leaned back in his chair at his favourite table (it is amazing how quickly those old guys settle on a favourite spot, even in a brand new inn) and hummed along contentedly to the tunes Wyn was playing. Obviously he knew them well.
_ Wyn Roth
NPC, 12 posts
Mon 20 Aug 2018
at 08:18
  • msg #6

Fuzzy: The Dragon's Den

As more and more people come into the newly opened bar, Wyn changes from flute to performance poetry.  Turning  away from the room for a moment or two to compose himself, he turns back looking a little wilder and more unkempt, then launches into a poem ...

Three wheels on my wagon
And I'm still rolling along
The Goblinski are chasing me
Arrows fly
Right on by
But I’m heading for Henry’s land.

I'm shouting  - higgity, haggity, hoggety, high
Pioneers, they never say die
A mile up the road there's a hidden cave
And we can watch those Goblins go
barrelling by

Two wheels on my wagon
And I'm still rolling along
Them Goblinski are after me
Flaming spears
Burn my ears
But I’m heading for Henry’s land

I'm shouting - higgity, haggity hoggety, high
Pioneers, they never say die
Half a mile up the road there's a hidden cave
And we can watch those Goblins go
barrelling by

One wheel on my wagon
And I'm still rolling along
Them Goblinski after me
I'm all in flames
At the reins
But I’m heading for Henry’s land

I'm shouting - higgity, haggity hoggety, high
Pioneers, they never say die
Right around that turn there's a hidden cave
And we can watch those Goblins go
barrelling by

No wheels on my wagon
So I'm not rolling along
The cavalry rescued me
Things looked bad
I’m so glad
That I’m heading for Henry’s land

C'mon all you pioneers, shout along with me!
Higgity, haggity hoggety, high
Pioneers, they never say die
Higgity, haggity hoggety, high
Pioneers, they never say die
Higgity, haggity hoggety, high


before grining and allow his normal  urbane look to slide back into view.

"Anyone else want to give us a turn?" he asks.




With apologies to Burt Bacharach & Bob Hilliard
~ Folfast Balhon
NPC p, 1 post
Author, poet & playwright
Guest at the Roth's Inn
Mon 20 Aug 2018
at 14:07
  • msg #7

Fuzzy: The Dragon's Den

Folfast descends the stairs, making his way blearily to the bar where he quickly downs his scandolously late breakfast before turning back to the stage.

"It is bad enough that you rouse me from my slumbes and draw me forth from my blankets with your angelic tones ... but to issue such a challenge as you know I'll not refuse ... !" the big man remonstrates with his landlord belly wobbling in time.

"Ho then !  I accept !"

Gesturing for his fiddle to be brought and with a broad wink at Berta behind the bar, Folfast takes the stage, nodding formally to Wyn as he plucks on the strings of his instrument ... seemingly randomly at first, but slowly a tune takes form from those simple notes.

Tapping his foot in time with the beat, Folfast nods once more in satisfaction as he begins to sing ...


Blood drops on flagstones and talons on dragons
A jester that festers and poison in flagons
Locked in a dungeon and tied up in chains
These are a few of my least favourite things
Hellhounds and nightmares and terrible frights
Moaning and groaning and bumps in the night
Ranting and growling and wild mutterings
These are a few of my least favourite things


And then he picks up the pace ...

Gorgons and baslisks and horrid medusas
Carrion crawlers and gibbering mouthers
Beholders and vampires and balrogs with wings
These are a few of my least favourite fiends
When the ghoul bites,
When the stirge stings
When I've just been cursed
I simply remember my least favourite fiends
Then I feel soooooo ... much worse !


"Thank you all !" Folfast breaks off, holding up his fiddle with a flourish as he sketches a bow.



With abject apologies to Rodgers and Hammerstein
This message was last edited by the player at 14:08, Mon 20 Aug 2018.
~ Berta Roth
NPC p, 5 posts
Human Female Dragonfriend
Let's do it my way
Thu 23 Aug 2018
at 12:23
  • msg #8

Fuzzy: The Dragon's Den

Berta leans towards Gedd.

"I hope you have your bow handy. If either of them start in on that never-ending song about Bishop Brugar, you have my permission to put an arrow in them !" she tells her brother, keeping a straight face.
~ Gedd
NPC p, 7 posts
Gedd Roth
Half-orc archer
Thu 23 Aug 2018
at 13:13
  • msg #9

Fuzzy: The Dragon's Den

Gedd frowns at Berta's comment and responds with mock-seriousness.

"Really? You're not a fan of one of the finest champions of justice that ever lived?"

But he can't keep up the pretense and bursts out laughing at the thought of what Berta would do if she ever came face to face with that lecherous old gods-botherer.
~ Berta Roth
NPC p, 6 posts
Human Female Dragonfriend
Let's do it my way
Fri 24 Aug 2018
at 04:39
  • msg #10

Fuzzy: The Dragon's Den

Berta joins in with her brother's mirth, grinning broadly.

"Aye, if such a man as Bishop Brugar ever did live, then I'd be pleased to make his acquaintance and liberate a jug or two with him ... it's the verses those two reprobates come up with," she nods in the direction of Wyn and Folfast, "that'd get us shut down !"
Adoven
Player, 262 posts
Rogue / Bard
Fri 24 Aug 2018
at 11:18
  • msg #11

Fuzzy: The Dragon's Den

Adoven strums his lute to a spritely tune, saying "I fear my voice isn't as cultured as yours, my friend. Still, I offer this little ditty, called the Captain's Wife's Lament."


 "The ship sailed into harbor
 After fifteen months at sea
 The captain hit the tavern
 With his crew of fifty-three

 After drinking up their pay
 They staggered through the town
 But all the inns and public houses
 Turned the sailors down

 The captain said “Fear not, me lads
 You all can come with me
 I live just ‘round the corner
 And you all can stay for free”

But when the captain’s wife awoke
 Upon the break of day
 They say that you could hear her wailin’
Clear to Bot’ny Bay…

She said there’s
 Seamen all around the bed
 And seamen on the floor
 Seamen in the bathroom
 And behind the closet door

 There’s seamen in the fireplace
 And seamen in the hall
 The living room is carpeted
 With seamen, wall to wall

 There’s seamen in the entryway
 And seamen on the stair
 And worst of all, there’s even seamen
 In me underwear

 There’s some behind the larder
 And beneath the table, too
 I do believe your seamen
 Got into me Irish stew

 There’s seamen here in front of me
 And seamen in the rear
 My God—there’s even seamen
 Hanging from the chandelier

 There’s seamen on the windowsill
 And seamen in the yard
 The seamen even left a stain
 Upon the Saint Bernard

 Although I am a patient wife
‘Tis more than I can bear
 To wake up in the morning
 With your seamen in my hair

 I ne’er again do wish to see thee
 Darken up my door
 So clean up all your seamen and
 Come round my way no more
 So clean up all your seamen and
 Come round my way no more!"



Courtesy of Paul and Storm

This message was last edited by the player at 13:27, Sat 25 Aug 2018.
~ Gedd
NPC p, 8 posts
Gedd Roth
Half-orc archer
Fri 24 Aug 2018
at 14:17
  • msg #12

Fuzzy: The Dragon's Den

Gedd listened to Adoven's song and was soon clapping in time to the beat. As the song finished he burst out laughing and applauded loudly.

Still grinning he turned back to Berta to ask, "What about sea shanties like that one? Are they OK or do you want me to shoot him too?"
_Winnie
NPC, 6 posts
Fri 24 Aug 2018
at 14:24
  • msg #13

Fuzzy: The Dragon's Den

Winnie laughs lightly as Adoven works his way through the song, then nods across at Wyn and Folfast  "I suspect those two reprobates would approve."
~ Berta Roth
NPC p, 7 posts
Human Female Dragonfriend
Let's do it my way
Sat 25 Aug 2018
at 05:14
  • msg #14

Fuzzy: The Dragon's Den

Despite her earlier remarks, Berta grins at Adoven's sea shanty, and her smile only broadens as she leans close to reply to her brother.

"Shoot him ?  Might be a kindness.  If Captain Bannar or his Aldori Guards hear of this, they'll likely gut him and string him up by his entrails !"
~ Darius
NPC e, 1 post
Scribe, Carouser
Tue 28 Aug 2018
at 22:17
  • msg #15

Fuzzy: The Dragon's Den

Darius' head swayed slightly in rhythm with Adoven's song as he walked towards Pete the Poacher's table, hard cider in hand. "Mind if I join ya," he asked as he pulled out a chair and took a set without waiting for an answer. "What's new Pete? Other than this here establishment of course," he added with a sly smile.
~ Pete the Poacher
NPC p, 6 posts
Wed 29 Aug 2018
at 13:06
  • msg #16

Fuzzy: The Dragon's Den

Old Pete glances across at the newcomer for a moment before nodding.

"Whole town's new, far as I can tell, 'cept the fort on the hill. I've known Folfast for more years than he'd like to admit and known Wyn a couple of years too, but first time I've seen young Adoven perform. But it's the first time I heard any of those songs they sang. So, a good start to the night, I reckon.

"Outside of the town, I don't know much yet. Haven't had a chance to explore too far yet. I've been a bit busy helping 'em get this place set up. Now that it's up and running I reckon I might have a good look around outside of town, talk to folk about what sort of game is available in the area and start getting a feel for the place that way. I heard something about some kind of swamp down south with some interesting mushrooms that might be worth a visit, too.

"What about you, young fella?"
he asked Darius. "You got any plans of what you hope to do here?"
~ Darius
NPC e, 2 posts
Scribe, Carouser
Sat 1 Sep 2018
at 15:27
  • msg #17

Fuzzy: The Dragon's Den

Darius shrugs as he takes a sip from his cider, "Not quite sure. I'm came out here for a change of scenery. I'm offering scribe services for those interested, but I can't expect that to bring in too much money. I'll guess we'll see."
~ Pete the Poacher
NPC p, 7 posts
Sat 1 Sep 2018
at 16:08
  • msg #18

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Old Pete looks at Darius for a moment then taps his chin thoughtfully.

"What about maps? If you can use pen and ink you can probably make a fair copy of a map and add in extra bits as folk explore and report what they find. I hear Henry LeMaistre has a decent overall map of Midmarch and he will let folk study it when they need to. Might be a market for copies of that, especially if you can add more details as they become known.  Actually, it's funny how many of those adventurous explorer types find there way into an inn like this one when they stagger back into town. Thirsty work, obviously," he adds with a grin.

"You could even write down the tales that folk tell you about the places they've seen. Or the songs that get sung here of a night time. You might have to read them out loud for those of us as can't read for ourselves, of course. The more I think on it, the more I can see uses for what you can do. Talk to merchants like V&A - that's Adoven up there who just finished singing - and Henry LeMaistre's people about using your services as a scribe or bookkeeper or mapmaker. I think you will find plenty of work here," he concludes.
This message was last updated by the GM at 18:52, Sat 01 Sept 2018.
~ Darius
NPC e, 3 posts
Scribe, Carouser
Tue 11 Sep 2018
at 01:48
  • msg #19

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Darius rubs his chin, pondering for a moment. "Maps? Hmm, I hadn't thought of that, but it's an intriguing idea. And I'm sure something that would prove useful out here.

Serving as a scribe, especially for official documents such as Henry LeMaistre and the various merchants around here might need, was my original thought and something I will pursue. But I am now quite interested in how I might fare with mapmaking. Thank you for the idea."

~ Folfast Balhon
NPC p, 2 posts
Author, poet & playwright
Guest at the Roth's Inn
Sun 23 Sep 2018
at 06:31
  • msg #20

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

On his way to the bar for a sip of second breakfast, Folfast weighs in on the discussion in passing.

"The tales and stories are welcome fodder from which we happy few might spin song and verse to enthrall and inspire," he booms.  "From such are legends made !"

"Indeed, someone," his tone suffice to inform that it should be anyone other than himself, who is at least able to scratch out words without offending the gods of grammar and spelling, "should commit the history of this fledgling outpost to parchment that it be passed down for posterity."

"Milady !" having spoken his piece, Folfast turns away, raising a hand in plaintive entreaty towards Berta at the bar, "I am in dire need of refreshment !  A glass, quickly, lest I perish !"
~ Berta Roth
NPC p, 9 posts
Human Female Dragonfriend
Let's do it my way
Sun 30 Sep 2018
at 12:22
  • msg #21

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"I've told you not to call me that," Berta hisses crossly at Folfast as she pours him a glass, banging down on the counter, glaring at the old sot all the while.
~ Darius
NPC e, 4 posts
Scribe, Carouser
Sun 30 Sep 2018
at 18:17
  • msg #22

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Darius chuckled at Berta's response as he turned to Folfast, "well, I'm no bard such as yourself, but I am quite capable of putting words down on parchment. Perhaps we could work together to pen a gripping tale of the story of Midmarch?"
DM
GM, 2488 posts
Mon 24 Dec 2018
at 15:25
  • msg #23

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

New day.

With the summer over and autumn drawing to a close, it would soon be too cold to travel far.  With winter would come the snow, storms, ice and fog for which the region was famed.  Soon it would be time for warm fires, mulled wines and warm, sticky puddings.

But now the harvest was in, and the new city's suppliers for the winter secured, it was time for a celebration.  New ales are available at the bar, and warming stews and puddings are already starting to show on the menu.

Up on the small stage an itinerant performer recites a simple folk poem, that describes a country boy's education.

Boy and Uncle marching proud,
Calling critters names aloud,
Travelling o'er ground unploughed
Through early morning's misty shroud.
Another trip, already vowed!

Look there! Quickly! See?
See the squirrel climb the tree?
He hides his nuts from you and me.

A Cabbage White, that butterfly,
Dipping low, then flapping high.
He checks for food, that he might spy.

Watch the rabbit in his  hole,
Skirting round the tree trunk's bole,
Looking deep within your soul?

Feathered grouse, hid underfoot
Wingtip feathers black like soot.
Eggs in nest, so nicely put.

Foxgloves standing in the dells
With flowery spikes of purple bells
Deadly poison, and death foretells.

Staghorn beetle's spiky nose,
Grubbing round the dead thorn rose.
Then taking up a fighting pose

Vixen in her covered den!
Blood and feathers  from a hen,
'Twas taken from the farmers pen.

Rufus Robin on the twig,
Jumping down to earth to dig.
He's finding worms, both fat and big

Watch the eagle way up there
Smaller creatures all beware,
And head home swiftly, for your lair

Boy and Uncle marching proud,
Calling critters names aloud,
Travelling o'er ground unploughed
Through early morning's misty shroud.
Another trip already vowed!

Zach Malford
NPC e, 1 post
Business Manager of
Winters Wares and Spices
Tue 25 Dec 2018
at 21:41
  • msg #24

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Zach Malford had ordered a private room for dinner this evening. He had a special guest. He called upon the Dragons Den because it was becoming on of the favorites here in Tusk Town. And he needed to make a favorable impression.

"Be sure to serve the wine as soon as we are seated. Followed by the appetizers." Zach instructed the staff. "I'll let you know when to bring in the main dish. And keep the wine cups full at all times."

Zach Malford was in his element. He wore a black and silver ensemble that kept everything neat and simple. Yet there was an air of confidence in the man. That was one of the reasons he held the position of business manager. As a business manager, he was responsible for making sure that the business venture was profitable. And there were many ways to that end, some of them were less than legal. He just had to make sure that they weren't illegal; for that would strain his relationship with the owner. Zach had to find the grey areas; that was where the greatest profits lie.

Several minutes later, a servant escorted the special guest into the private room. "Good evening Sir Winters. I trust that your travels went well. Please enjoy the evening while I summarize the reports for your business venture."

"Wine?"
Zach gave a nod to the servant who began pouring the wine. Appetizers soon followed.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:45, Tue 25 Dec 2018.
_Winnie
NPC, 7 posts
Tue 25 Dec 2018
at 21:53
  • msg #25

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Winnie smiles sweetly as she listens to Zach's instructions, and then leaves to make sure that the private room is all properly and neatly arranged with fresh linens and the crockery and cutlery arranged to perfection.

A bottle of wine sits prominently on a side table, and she starts to pour as soon as directed, before leaving for a moment or two and returning with a tray full of small appetizers.

There is a selection of small savoury pastries, a creamy fish dressing on small circular slices of toast, sticks of vegetables and various dips to help get the meal started.  Then she stands, almost in a military 'at ease' position, by the door waiting for the  diners to finish the course so that she can clear the table and bring the main course.
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:00, Tue 25 Dec 2018.
Kendrick Winters
player, 130 posts
House Winters
Tue 25 Dec 2018
at 22:09
  • msg #26

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Kendrick Winters stomped the hard ground as he walked the streets of Tusk Town. The ground was getting colder, harder. The wind held a chill of what was to come. Winter was coming.Iomedae

He entered the Dragons Den and quickly closed the door behind him. He opened his cloak and shook the chill from his outer garment. The warmth of the room cheered his demeanor. Kendrick asked a passing serving girl, "I'm here to see Master Malford. I understand that he has a private room?" The girl pointed to a room deeper in the Dragons Den before she rushed to fulfill a drink order.

Kendrick found the room and Zack Malford. Zack greeted him and offered him a cup of wine. "Thank you. Indeed our mission into the Narlemarch posed some challenges, but we did manage the best outcome possible... given the circumstances."

The two men continued in their chat while sampling the appetizers and the wine. Both wore a symbol of the sun and sword, a holy symbol of Iomedae. One of of dark wood and the other of silver. They were of similar height but Kendrick had the build of a seasoned warrior and Zach was more accustomed to the quill than that of a sword. "Zach. Tell me how things are going with the business?"

Zach turned to Winnie and motioned for the main course to be served.
_Winnie
NPC, 8 posts
Tue 25 Dec 2018
at 22:19
  • msg #27

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Wiine acknowledges the instruction, and pokes her head out of the door, before she starts to clear the remains of the first course.  Shortly afterwards a waiter appears with a steaming roasted haunch of elk, acompanied by a selection of vegetable.

Taking a large knife, Winnie sharpens it against a steel, and carves the joint while the waiter removes the used dishes.  Once the meat is carved, she serves portion to each of the guests, and then adds vegetables from the selection on the table.  After checking whether they want gravy, she tops up wine glasses and returns to her station,  where she waits demurely.
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:19, Tue 25 Dec 2018.
~ Darius
NPC e, 5 posts
Scribe, Carouser
Tue 25 Dec 2018
at 22:25
  • msg #28

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Darius sat at his usual table, nursing an ale as a now finished bowl of stew sat on the edge of the table. A rudimentary map was laid out in front of him, his first foray into his potential new business; one that he felt could also benefit his benefactor.

It didn't pass his notice that Zach made his way to a private room, and shortly thereafter was followed by Sir Winters. He wondered to himself what that could be about.
Zach Malford
NPC e, 2 posts
Business Manager of
Winters Wares and Spices
Tue 25 Dec 2018
at 22:51
  • msg #29

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Zach reported on the business, "I think we need to rename the business to 'Winters Wares and Spices'. This will give our customers a better idea of what makes us different from other businesses. And of course, there will always be a market for spices. As places like the Dragons Den opens, the spice must follow... otherwise, it's simply camp food."

He stopped speaking as the staff brought in the roasted elk. "This dish was prepared with some of the spices that I gave the cook." The two men ate. Their silence was often interrupted with more drinking and complements.

"And I think that we have an opportunity to expand." The last comment brought Kendrick to set down the food. He reached for the wine. "Expand? How so?"

"Ringbridge."
Kendrick Winters
player, 131 posts
House Winters
Wed 26 Dec 2018
at 02:41
  • msg #30

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Ringbridge. Kendrick repeated the town's name silently while Zach continued speaking...

"Kendrick, Kendrick. Did you hear what I said?" Zach paused while waiting for a reaction from Kendrick.

Kendrick finally blinked, "Yes, yes. Of course. I'm fine with the new business name. You convinced me last month that my best decision was to hire you as the business manager. I appreciate these reports." His hand slowly reached for a dagger at his belt. "As for Ringbridge, that make sense too."

He pulled out the sheathed dagger. "Here. Take this." The pommel of the dagger was wrapped in a leather strip. Kendrick pulled the dagger from the sheath, "It's a silver dagger. Last time I was in Ringbridge I was called upon to help track and kill a man inflicted with lycanthrope. We were successful." He thrust the dagger into the sheath, "I worry that there may be more. Lt Lincoln said that he would be alert for any similar sightings. You should check in with him and with Gandred at the Torag's House while you're there."

Kendrick pushed his plate forward. "What's for dessert?"

"More WINE!" Zach almost shouted with a hint of panic.
This message was last edited by the player at 04:59, Wed 26 Dec 2018.
~ Berta Roth
NPC p, 10 posts
Human Female Dragonfriend
Let's do it my way
Wed 26 Dec 2018
at 06:15
  • msg #31

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

This evening luck was with Berta and sees her dressed in her leathers and keeping a wary eye over the gathering crowd, while Gedd lends a hand behind the bar, though with the place filling up, she's had to reluctantly surrender her seat for the use of paying customers,and can only look on as the ale flows their way not hers.  Not while 'on duty'.

Zach's peremptory manner of addressing the servants brings a narrowing of her eyes and a sympathetic glance at Winnie, but does not suffice to stir her to teach the man to speak more politely ... or if it does, then she sets that urge aside, though it's certain it's not forgotten, much less forgiven.

The arrival of Kendrick for the meeting is noted ... and his courtesy gets a nod of approval, though she keeps her eye on the door, and when the urgent call comes for more wine, she pushes herself to her feet and collects tray and bottle from the bar to delivery it personally to Winnie, her lip twitching in a smile.

"Everything well here ?" she asks her sister-in-law.
_Winnie
NPC, 9 posts
Wed 26 Dec 2018
at 07:55
  • msg #32

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Winnie nods and smiles as Berta delivers the wine, assuring her sister-in-law that all is fine within.  "If you could get one of the lads to clear the dishes and bring the desserts, I would appreciate it."

Turning back to the room, Winnie tops up the glasses before she clears the remains of the main course onto the side table.  "As the weather is turning cold," she tells her guests, "The chef has prepared an apple pie, complete with a hot sauce made from eggs and cream, flavoured with some of the spices that you supplied."

A few mintes later the pie, accompanied by a large jug of custard, appears and generous portions are served up.
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:42, Wed 26 Dec 2018.
Zach Malford
NPC e, 3 posts
Business Manager of
Winters Wares and Spices
Wed 26 Dec 2018
at 12:56
  • msg #33

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Zach Malford has been diligent in planning tonight's meal for Sir Winters. Well everything except for dessert. He was never known for having a sweet tooth. Damn those spies. What good are they if they can't get to the truth of the matter! He sat back, relieved when Minnie described the dessert that was already prepared. He smiled and mouthed, THANK YOU, when she rescued him. Zach made a mental note to leave a generous tip.
Kendrick Winters
player, 132 posts
House Winters
Wed 26 Dec 2018
at 13:07
  • msg #34

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"One more thing." Kendrick said after his set his wine glass down. "Prepare my room in both locations. I may drop by from time to time. I'm planning on visiting the Knight Commander."

"Certainly. However this may involve expanding our facilities beyond the simple storefront that we have right now..." Zach explained as he tested Sir Winters intentions.

"That's understandable." He replied quickly his focus on Winnie and the two plates of creamy custard and pie.

Zach smiled. Clearly the outcome this evening went better than planned.
_Winnie
NPC, 10 posts
Wed 26 Dec 2018
at 22:46
  • msg #35

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Once the dessert is finished and cleared away, Winnie takes a small decanter from a shelf, along with a couple of glasses.  Approaching the table she sets a glass infront of each man and pours a generous measure from the decanter into each glass.  "A small digestif, on the house, gentlemen.  Not the best of brandies, I am afraid, but among the best that we can get this far north."  With a nod she returns the decanter to the shelf, and leaves the two to their measures of the rather fiery spirt.
DM
GM, 2492 posts
Wed 26 Dec 2018
at 22:53
  • msg #36

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

The barman calls Wyn across, and points to a man dressed in leathers.  Smiling the proprietor, walks across to the countryman and they chat for a short while, before the newcomer hands something over to Wyn.

After examining it, he nods to the fellow and walks him across to the bar.  A few moments later the countryman has a pitcher of ale in his hand, and heads towards a table full of men dressed in basic but simple clothing.  Then a few moments later, a waiter delivers half-a-dozen more pitchers to the table.
~ Berta Roth
NPC p, 11 posts
Human Female Dragonfriend
Let's do it my way
Thu 27 Dec 2018
at 04:17
  • msg #37

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Berta's forehead furrows once more as she watches her elder brother.  Certainly there is nothing immediately suspicious about Wyn's conversation with the stranger and the exchange is not exactly furtive, but from long experience he doesn't deserve the benefit of the doubt.

Turning away, Berta resolves to get to the bottom of the matter.  She'll ask Winnie later ... but only after she begs her sister-in-law for a helping of the apple pie.
~ Darius
NPC e, 6 posts
Scribe, Carouser
Thu 27 Dec 2018
at 04:32
  • msg #38

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Darius glances up for a moment to survey the crowd before looking back down at his map.
~ Pete the Poacher
NPC p, 8 posts
Thu 27 Dec 2018
at 06:49
  • msg #39

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Old Pete collects a couple of mugs of ale from the bar and ambles over to the table where Darius sits with his map. He sets both mugs down on the table, sits himself down in a chair and pushes one mug across to Darius.

"How are ye going, lad? The map is looking good. Ye've got the shape of Tusk Town right, and the lake and river too. I've not been further afield yet myself. Have ye heard anything interesting yet from others who've travelled a bit further out?" he asked.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:09, Fri 28 Dec 2018.
_ Wyn Roth
NPC, 13 posts
Thu 27 Dec 2018
at 08:14
  • msg #40

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Wyn grins happily and slaps winnie's booitom as she passes by with the ramains of the apple pie.
_Winnie
NPC, 11 posts
Thu 27 Dec 2018
at 08:15
  • msg #41

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"Stop it." Winnie replies, smiling across at her husband.  "We're in public ..."
~ Darius
NPC e, 7 posts
Scribe, Carouser
Fri 28 Dec 2018
at 04:55
  • msg #42

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Darius nods in thanks to Old Pete as he takes a sip from new mug. He takes a look down at the map and shrugs, "it's looking okay I guess, but it's going to take me some time before I've really got the skills down to drawn things accurately. I'm still a novice at this," he says as someone who is not used to be a novice at things.
DM
GM, 2493 posts
Fri 28 Dec 2018
at 07:11
  • msg #43

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

The poet from earlier has finished his set, and wanders through the room, holding his cap out, calling ...

Winter is coming. The goose is getting fat.
Please put a penny in the poet’s hat.
If you haven't got a penny, then a ha' penny will do.
If you haven't got a ha' penny, may the Gods bless you!


It is well-known that the Dragon's Den allows performers to 'Busk' in the bar, in the hope of making a few coins from their skills.  Just so long as Wyn thinks they are good enough, of course.
This message was last edited by the GM at 07:25, Fri 28 Dec 2018.
~ Pete the Poacher
NPC p, 9 posts
Fri 28 Dec 2018
at 14:04
  • msg #44

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Old Pete smiles kindly at Darius.

"Don't ye worry, lad, I've seen plenty worse maps traded for gold just because they showed where some long lost treasure was supposedly buried, or the entrance to an old, forgotten gold mine, or some such thing. You just need the right story to go with your map. Some of the folk here in town used to be brigands in this area when the fort here was controlled by their leader, the Stag Lord, so some of them are likely to have a tale to tell about things that happened around here in his time or legends about things before that. The only thing I've seen that might be of any interest was the tracks of a giant stag beetle in the woods west of here. They are of no value in themselves but sometimes they become a real threat to logging communities and woodsmen because they are attracted by rotting wood. I've known of a bounty being offered elsewhere to get rid of them when they become a nuisance," he tells Darius.

When the poet passes their table he tosses a silver penny into the man's cap.

"Thank ye, young fella. That reminded me of many a walk with me ol' dad when I was just a youngster. I don't suppose ye know any tales of things that happened around here in the past, do ye?" he asks the poet.
~ Darius
NPC e, 8 posts
Scribe, Carouser
Mon 31 Dec 2018
at 05:33
  • msg #45

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"Giant stag beetles? Those don't sound fun, or sanitary," Darius mused. "I suppose it's a good start, but I'm hoping that when the expeditions return I can get some more useful information on here. A maps not worth a whole lot if it doesn't provide accurate information after all."

When the poet comes by, Darius also tosses a coin into his cap. "Yes, tales of this area would be interesting indeed," Darius added.
DM
GM, 2496 posts
Mon 31 Dec 2018
at 09:15
  • msg #46

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

The poet looks, significantly, at the ales in front of both Darius and Pete.  "Thank 'ee gentlemen."
~ Pete the Poacher
NPC p, 10 posts
Tue 1 Jan 2019
at 16:18
  • msg #47

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Pete's eyes follow the poet's gaze to the mugs of ale and he just grunts softly to himself before raising his arm to attract one of the serving lasses to order a mug of ale for the poet too.

"Sit a while with us and tell us what ye know, young fella," he advises the poet.
Kendrick Winters
player, 134 posts
House Winters
Sat 5 Jan 2019
at 16:41
  • msg #48

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Kendrick and Zach finished their dinners. The two men sat and enjoyed their drink, savoring each sip. Finally Zach turned to Kendrick, "Please excuse me. I still have to attend to business matters this evening." He picked up the silver dagger as he stood. "G'night Sir Winters."




Kendrick savored the drink. He sat in the private room until servants arrived to clear the table. The young knight stood drink in hand, "Excuse me, I was just leaving. Thank you." He stepped into the main room and found an empty table.
DM
GM, 2501 posts
Sat 5 Jan 2019
at 17:16
  • msg #49

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"I'll be back in  just a moment ...." the Poet grins, then continues his round of the other customers collecting what few coins that he can.  Returning to Pete and Darius's table, he takes a chair and then reaches appreciatively for the ale that was ordered for him.

"Busy in here tonight.  Gearing up for Harvestfest, I'll be bound."
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:16, Sat 05 Jan 2019.
~ Berta Roth
NPC p, 12 posts
Human Female Dragonfriend
Let's do it my way
Sun 6 Jan 2019
at 05:57
  • msg #50

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Watching the crowd, Berta notes the reappearance of Kendrick, pleased that the young knight chooses to stay on once his business is done, the moreso as from what she's seen of him so far he's not likely to be the cause of any trouble in her inn.

The warrior-woman stares down the erstwhile Poet as he waves his cap in her direction ... but just for the form of it, calling him back with a laconic grin as she flips a silver coin his way and graces him with an approving nod.
This message was last edited by the player at 05:58, Sun 06 Jan 2019.
Domitius
player, 66 posts
Half Elf Fighter/Rogue
AC:18 HP:18
Sun 6 Jan 2019
at 06:37
  • msg #51

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

It had been a while since the last time Domitius had let his hair down and from all accounts the Dragon's Den seemed to be the place to be in town.  Dressed in his second finest outfit he headed in to the bar.

As he approached he paused outside and cast an eye over the new building then with a nod of approval he headed in.  He stopped just inside the entrance to allow his eyes to adjust and to scope out the room.  Spotting an empty seat near Sir Kendrick he made his way through the crowd and said "Good evening Sir Kendrick, may I join you?
Kendrick Winters
player, 135 posts
House Winters
Sun 6 Jan 2019
at 07:20
  • msg #52

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Kendrick smiled as he saw Domitius approach his table. "Please do. What are you drinking tonight?" The young man held a glass in his hand. The liquid inside was a deep brown. He brought the drink to his lips and sipped slowly.
~ Pete the Poacher
NPC p, 11 posts
Sun 6 Jan 2019
at 07:59
  • msg #53

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Old Pete shifted his chair a bit to make room for the poet to take a seat at the table with him and Darius.

"This is my first year here, so I've not seen what passes for Harvestfest here yet. Something to look forward to though, right enough. So, what's your name, lad? I'm Pete and this here is Darius. Tell us a bit about yourself and how ye come to be here in Tusk Town."
Domitius
player, 67 posts
Half Elf Fighter/Rogue
AC:18 HP:18
Sun 6 Jan 2019
at 10:06
  • msg #54

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Taking a seat at Kendrick's table with view of the front door, he gave a nod of thanks as he did so and Domitius replied "Oldlaw whiskey, assuming they have some."
~ Berta Roth
NPC p, 13 posts
Human Female Dragonfriend
Let's do it my way
Fri 11 Jan 2019
at 06:19
  • msg #55

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

With nobody as yet needing to be picked up, sat down or forcibly expelled from their establishement, Berta lends half an ear to the conversations at the tables, snorting with good humour at what she hears.
Cass Mordane
Player, 297 posts
Bard, Sword Scion
Sometime Diplomat
Sat 19 Jan 2019
at 03:20
  • msg #56

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den


Cass Mordane would likely never admit it to another living soul, but he might be getting spoiled. He couldn't remember the last time he had to sleep under an onion cart, or curl up next to some drover's dogs to keep warm.

Cass had eventually moved up to a blanket and a place on the floor of some common room of a hole in the wall tavern or inn on the outskirts of Restov thanks to earning a few coins busking in the streets.

As Cass became a better entertainer, the flow of coins increased and where to sleep was less of a concern. Getting sleep was another matter. Cass had begun to spent every spare coin on the Aldori dueling arts, and that meant many long nights of exercise, practice, and sparring.

Then came the Charter and Cass hitched his star to Midmarch and the keen plans of Henry LeMaistre. Henry kept his teams' patrol times short, especially with the approach of inclement weather. And he was kind enough to provide lodging for the members of the Tusk Town City Council.

So when the cold wind drove Cass off the streets and into the warm, cozy surroundings of The Dragons Den, it had been awhile since he had felt so closed in upon. But that was always the way of the coming winter, wasn't it?

Cass stopped blowing on his hands for warmth and looked around the room to see who was present. Then he shook off his chill and stepped to the bar.

"A warm cider please. If it is hot enough to scald a wyvern's tail, I won't complain. I will just draw the heat into my bones. If it is hard enough to stagger a dwarven wrestler, then I won't mind at all. I will just count it as medicinal."

Cass tried to hide the rumbling of his stomach as well. "And if it is not too much trouble, a bit of that dark bread that the locals call Nick. And a bowl of your house stew. If it has game in it, that would be a delight. I know the local cuisine is still in progress, but if I have to eat another eel, I will likely have spotted kittens about the issue."
DM
GM, 2541 posts
Sun 20 Jan 2019
at 07:16
  • msg #57

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Winnie is busy, on the other side of the room, so a different waitress comes to take the order.  When she returns, she wipes the table quickly and slides the clay tankard onto it.  "Misteess Winnie's own recipe …" she says indicating the mulled cider.

Not only is the cider warmed, it has been infused with herbs and spices that give it that reconisable 'winter' flavour.
_Wyn Roth
NPC, 14 posts
Tue 5 Feb 2019
at 14:39
  • msg #58

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Wyn saunters out from behind the bar, whistling jauntily to himself, and pins a notice on the notice board.
~ Gedd
NPC p, 13 posts
Gedd Roth
Half-orc archer
Tue 5 Feb 2019
at 15:31
  • msg #59

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

After a suitable interval (at least 30 seconds) Gedd wanders over to the notice board and glances nonchalantly at the notice Wyn has pinned up.
DM
GM, 2571 posts
Tue 5 Feb 2019
at 15:44
  • msg #60

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

The notice reads .....
~ Berta Roth
NPC p, 18 posts
Human Female Dragonfriend
Let's do it my way
Wed 6 Feb 2019
at 04:13
  • msg #61

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"Mother preserve us," Berta frowns as she watches her older brother pin up the notice.  It's the whistling she objects to, mostly.

Exchanging a glace with her younger sibling, the warrior-woman grimaces ... but resists the urge to race over to the board, expecting that the contents will reach her ears sooner or later.

Probably sooner ...
~ Gedd
NPC p, 14 posts
Gedd Roth
Half-orc archer
Wed 6 Feb 2019
at 13:53
  • msg #62

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Gedd catches Berta's glance and slowly walks over to join her.

"I always knew he thinks it is past time you found yourself a husband, but I never thought he'd go that far," he mutters to her, shaking his head in disbelief.
~ Berta Roth
NPC p, 19 posts
Human Female Dragonfriend
Let's do it my way
Thu 7 Feb 2019
at 05:18
  • msg #63

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"Not hungry ..." her reply dies on her lips as Berta races over to the board, hand straying to the hilt of one of the blades that hangs at her hip, face set in a stone-like mask as she stares at the notice ...
DM
GM, 2572 posts
Thu 7 Feb 2019
at 08:09
  • msg #64

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

The notice reads .....
This message was last edited by the GM at 08:33, Thu 07 Feb 2019.
~ Berta Roth
NPC p, 20 posts
Human Female Dragonfriend
Let's do it my way
Fri 8 Feb 2019
at 05:56
  • msg #65

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"Skilled jeweller !"  Bertha reads the notice aloud, the relief in her voice evident ... as is the threat in the narrowed gaze as she turns back to search the crowd for Gedd, which widens to take in anyone else who looks as if they're enjoying the jest at her expense.

"Skilled jeweller !" the warrior-woman mutters again as she takes her hand off the hilt of her sword and crosses the common room to return to her favoured spot, younger brother or no.

"Maybe if he was very rich ... and as nice to look at as all the fancy baubles ..."

A moment's reflection as she casts her eyes over the room once more, then:

"Wonder what Wyn's really up to ?"
~ Gedd
NPC p, 16 posts
Gedd Roth
Half-orc archer
Fri 8 Feb 2019
at 15:30
  • msg #66

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"A nose ring! No, surely not. That's only an orcish custom, isn't it?"

Gedd's voice drifts across the room from the table where he now sits with a couple of his friends.
~ Liam Rivers
NPC e, 3 posts
Sergeant at Arms
Tue 19 Feb 2019
at 21:40
  • msg #67

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Liam had been sitting at a quiet table nursing a drink. The man was in leathers and a longsword was sheathed at his waist. He was content to watch people pass by on their business. But with several people moving to read the notice that was put up, curiosity got the better of him. He had to read the notice himself.
DM
GM, 2609 posts
Mad, bad and slightly sad
Tue 19 Feb 2019
at 22:57
  • msg #68

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

One of the waitresses tops up Liam's drink.
~ Liam Rivers
NPC e, 4 posts
Sergeant at Arms
Tue 19 Feb 2019
at 22:59
  • msg #69

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

With the topped off drink in hand, Liam walked over to the notice. He skimmed the text and sipped his drink.
DM
GM, 2610 posts
Mad, bad and slightly sad
Tue 19 Feb 2019
at 23:03
  • msg #70

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

The notice reads .....
~Magatha Primrose
NPC e, 1 post
Mon 25 Feb 2019
at 22:48
  • msg #71

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den



Magatha Primrose marched into the Dragon's Den. Not marching like someone who was in a hurry. No, marching in slow, measured steps with her head held high and her back straight as an arrow.

It was almost a strut, Magatha's walk. A prance, reminiscent of trained ponies. It was the formal march of the military on parade, polish, shine, and all.

And it would have been as impressive as intended, if she was not just a touch over three feet tall. Still, she looked proud as a peacock, this gnome woman. And just as colorful with her magenta hair and her chartreuse eyes.

Her top coat was crisp and without a wrinkle. It was dark blue with red and gold accents and a whole lot of shiny buttons. The coat was cut away from the legs like those of a cavalry officer and held in place by a tight leather belt. Her jack boots reached up to her knees.

On top of her head, the gnome wore a hat that reminded one of a sleek ship. It was accented by a large red feather or plume. The red contrasted nicely with her hair. She had a cutlass sheathed on each hip.

"Here I am!" Magatha announced with a flourish of her hands. "Straight off the boat!"

She cast her eyes around at everyone, then over to the bar. "A tall whiskey, please. Something spicy, if you have it."
~ Gedd
NPC p, 18 posts
Gedd Roth
Half-orc archer
Tue 26 Feb 2019
at 12:20
  • msg #72

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

The halforc standing by the bar gave the little newcomer a long, appraising look before finally nodding toward the other end of the common room.

"The stage is over there," he told her firmly. "What's your act? Singing? Dancing? Acrobatics? Juggling? Go on, tell me you're a sword-swallower!"
~Magatha Primrose
NPC e, 2 posts
Thu 28 Feb 2019
at 20:52
  • msg #73

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

The gnomish woman scrunched up her face at Gedd's remarks, then held up her finger in a 'just you wait' gesture.

Next, she marched herself directly to the aforementioned stage. Magatha then gave Gedd a nod and an exaggerated wink. "I can treat you to a bedazzling display of a swordsmanship!"

So saying, she drew out both of her blades and began to move in a swift and deadly form of dance covering the entirety of the stage.

Recognizing Aldori forms, Cass Mordane moved forward to the edge of his seat, removed a wind instrument from his pack, and began to play The Hills Low and Far in accompaniment to the gnome woman's moves. The song flowed with each move as if they had been originally orchestrated together.
~ Gedd
NPC p, 19 posts
Gedd Roth
Half-orc archer
Thu 28 Feb 2019
at 23:11
  • msg #74

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Gedd grinned as the little lady marched onto the stage but he watched with real appreciation and applauded loudly when she finished. He stepped behind the bar and poured the drink she had ordered, then took it up to the stage to her while she was still taking her bows.

He handed the glass to her with a smile then went back to his place by the bar.
Adoven
Player, 326 posts
Rogue / Bard
Fri 1 Mar 2019
at 16:39
  • msg #75

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Adoven applauds. "very nice. I need to strengthen such skills myself. Might you be available for hire?"
~ Berta Roth
NPC p, 23 posts
Human Female Dragonfriend
Let's do it my way
Sat 2 Mar 2019
at 06:26
  • msg #76

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

The Inn's bouncer and part-owner smiles at the gnome woman's entrance ... not mocking her size (her adopted brother Wilric is probably no taller and certainly was once a force to be reckoned with), but appreciative that there's another sharing her red tresses, though in truth Magatha's locks are far less unruly than her own.

So too the woman seems to know what she's doing with her blades, though Berta has little time for the fashion of the Aldori, finding the dance-like moves too flashy and wasteful - while she too wields two swords, her own preference is to cut straight to the heart of the matter, not to bedazzle ones opponent.  Her size would certainly be to her advantage, though - one rarely finds one so small yet brandishing such sharp blades.

Moreover, she likes Magatha's confidence and bold dress, and no less her choice of drink, adding her own applause to the rest !
Marceline
player, 65 posts
Half-Elf Inquisitor
Sat 2 Mar 2019
at 17:47
  • msg #77

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

A little tired from the journey back from the Kamelands but excited to see what her friends had done with their tavern, Marceline enters the Dragons Den and immediately makes her way over to Berta, the first familiar face she spies in the tavern.

"Berta! Good to see you again."
~Magatha Primrose
NPC e, 3 posts
Sun 3 Mar 2019
at 16:52
  • msg #78

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"Much thanks." Magatha said to Gedd as he handed her the glass of whiskey.

"I am sure something can be arranged." Magatha said to Adoven with a wink and a sly smile.

But it was to Berta Roth that Magatha raised her glass in salute. She had seen those assessing eyes, and approved.

"Oh. It tastes just like smoke and fire." Magatha rasped almost silently as she closed her eyes in pleasure, leaning her head back and enjoying the inner touching of the liquid as it trailed down.
El
player, 110 posts
Sun 3 Mar 2019
at 23:26
  • msg #79

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

>>From the Water

El came into the Dragons Den with much the same attitude as she'd had outside of it. All smiles and less worn for wear. In a way, she had felt she had something to prove to herself and now that she had, she felt more inclined to enjoy it.

"Oh, this certainly brings back memories." She said to herself, quite brightly, and seemed to stand a bit taller. "I'll fetch the drinks, you lads find us a table. Any special requests?" She asked, before walking off to fetch the order at the bar. She'd no mind to bother a tavern wench unless the need arose.
Andalon de Lebeda
Player, 724 posts
Cleric of Abadar
Mon 4 Mar 2019
at 13:10
  • msg #80

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Andalon entered close behind El and looked around for a table with chairs for six.

"A mug of ale would be most welcome, thank you El," he replied.

Then he lead the way across the common room to an empty table and took a seat. He was dressed in travel-stained studded leather armour rather than the heavier armour or clerical robes he might normally be expected to be seen in around town.
This message was last edited by the player at 13:12, Mon 04 Mar 2019.
Adoven
Player, 334 posts
Rogue / Bard
Tue 5 Mar 2019
at 01:00
  • msg #81

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Moved to the  El & Andalon table thread -  which just helps to separate out conversations and keep the Dragons Den threads readable.
This message was last edited by the GM at 06:47, Tue 05 Mar 2019.
_Winnie
NPC, 16 posts
Smiling Half-Elf
Tue 5 Mar 2019
at 13:10
  • msg #82

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"Hey!  Marcy!  How are you doing?   Grab a table and I'll fetch some drinks over."  Winnie says as she sees her travelling companion enter the bar.  "Maybe Berta will join us later ..." she says throwing a glance at her sister-in-law, who seems taken by the Gnome sword-dancer.

With that she heads off to the bar to let them know they need to get on without her for a while.

>>> To Marceline's table
~ Findlas
NPC e, 1 post
World Weary
Wary Gnome
Tue 5 Mar 2019
at 16:33
  • msg #83

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Dust covered a little gnome as he entered the dragon's den and peered around. He was a study in contrast to the gnome who'd just stepped in a little while ago. Bespectacled, he trudged into the bar and sat his belongings down at the first chair he could find. He then rubbed his face and looked around again at those present. He was quiet and observed the goings on and tables that had people around them.

Not seeing anyone familiar, he clambered up on the seat next to his many pouches and bags and waited on someone to serve him. Seems this is the place after all. I'll wait a bit and then see what we see.
Dara Algot
Player, 1 post
Wed 6 Mar 2019
at 21:50
  • msg #84

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

It had been a long, long road.  The caravan was finally putting in and the travelers spreading to the ends of the most recent settlement.  Dara wasted little time taking her backpack and precious cargo from Lydia and surrendering the horse's reigns to her.  "Someone deserves a nice brushing and an apple," she told the horse affectionately before leading her off in the direction of the stables.  Passing the necessary coin from her earnings, she walked with Lydia down the street looking for somewhere to get a hot meal and a room to sleep in.  The road was her friend but the last two years had been burdensome on her.

Finding the sign with three green dragons and one white, she felt a ray of hope fill her.  Or maybe it was the smell of food coming from within.  Either way, she was drawn into the establishment before she realized what she was doing.  Dara was still road worn, dusty and fatigued but still maintaining some spirit as she walked in.  Spying the counter, she and Lydia walked to it and sat down.

"What do you have ready?  Stew?  Yes that sounds wonderful, I'd like a bowl please and may I have an extra spoon?"  Dara's precious cargo was that of the most precious type, an infant child bundled tightly in a blanket for warmth and concealment.  One didn't walk through unknown cities without showing great care, even with a scimitar on her belt.

When the food served she wiggled in her chair enough to put the child on her leg in her left arm.  Sliding the bowl to the right she took a bite to test the temperature before blowing on it.  The child took a tepid bite before flailing about, knocking the spoon from Dara's hand and sending it falling to the floor.  Lydia reached down and picked it up to find the patron of the house already there with a new spoon.  "She's not very hungry," Dara said to Lydia before taking a spoonful for herself.  Unlike the baby, Dara was quite hungry and she wasted little time starting on the meal while Lydia secured a room for the night.  In between bites, Dara took a look around to see who was present, what the place was like, who the typical patrons were.  She tried once more to feed the baby and was rewarded as she took a mouthful of the sauce and swallowed with without fuss.  "Do you have any warm milk?" she asked.
DM
GM, 2691 posts
Mad, bad and slightly sad
Wed 6 Mar 2019
at 21:58
  • msg #85

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

With Winnie otherwise occupied, the other serving staff have to work much harder than normal, flitting from tables to table collecting orders  and running them up to the bar as quickly as they can.

One waitress, jugging a tray full of empties, stops by Findlas' table to take his order, then pulls a face as the woman at the next table asks for warmed milk.  "I'll see what I can do ..." she responds with a forced smile.
DM
GM, 2706 posts
Mad, bad and slightly sad
Thu 7 Mar 2019
at 20:43
  • msg #86

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Dara / Findlas conversation moved to new thread :)
~ Berta Roth
NPC p, 25 posts
Human Female Dragonfriend
Let's do it my way
Sat 9 Mar 2019
at 06:27
  • msg #87

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Berta smiles and nods to both Marceline and Magatha, though feels the lack of a cup to return the salute ... but for the moment she's on duty, and her roving eyes scan the room.

Voices growing a bit too loud and angry  launch her from her comfortable post, sending  her across the floor, not quickly, but with her habitual swagger that gives those she's heading for time enough to kiss and make up before she draws close, saying nothing but lingering long enough to let it be a warning, before leaving them to it.

With nobody else looking as if they need her to eyeball them at the moment, the warrior-woman elects to take up her vigil at the table that Marceline has chosen, grasping her friend in a robust hug of greeting.

>>> To Marceline's table (but she's still watching you all !  ;>)
~Magatha Primrose
NPC e, 4 posts
Sat 9 Mar 2019
at 23:59
  • msg #88

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Magatha strode from the stage with as much purpose as she had strode onto it. She dutifully returned the empty whiskey glass to the bar, never one to be a bad guest.

It was to the half-elven man who had played the song at the proper tempo to keep her sword exercises in sync that she directed her final march.

"There is a man in this town that I am looking to meet. They say he was a street performer and now he holds town meetings. Something of a gift for music, they say. And describe him to look a certain way. If that man be you, then I have a business proposal to discuss. In private. "
Adoven
Player, 384 posts
HP 34 AC 18 F+2 R+8 W+2
Rogue / Bard
Thu 21 Mar 2019
at 09:19
  • msg #89

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

When she returns from her private meeting with Cass, Magatha Primrose has another man waiting for her. An elaborate bow is followed by the words "Madam, I am in awe of your skills. I am striving to master a dueling style and believe you can help me strengthen a few basics that seem to have escaped me. I also need the services of a skilled inventor, because I have an idea that might aid trade within the River Kingdoms. Might you be available for consultation? For a proper fee, of course."
~ Darius
NPC e, 19 posts
Scribe, Carouser
Fri 22 Mar 2019
at 21:30
  • msg #90

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Considering all of the commotion and hilarity that the simple notice Wyn had put up caused, Darius decided he needed to take a look at it for himself.
This message was lightly edited by the player at 21:30, Fri 22 Mar 2019.
DM
GM, 2832 posts
Mad, bad and slightly sad
Fri 22 Mar 2019
at 21:34
  • msg #91

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

The Notice reads:
~ Darius
NPC e, 19 posts
Scribe, Carouser
Fri 5 Apr 2019
at 21:22
  • msg #92

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Darius heads over to the bar to get another drink, nonchalantly glancing around the bar as he does so.
This message was lightly edited by the GM at 21:22, Fri 05 Apr 2019.
DM
GM, 2970 posts
Sat 13 Apr 2019
at 06:54
  • msg #93

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

PM
~ Berta Roth
NPC p, 30 posts
Human Female Dragonfriend
Let's do it my way
Sun 14 Apr 2019
at 13:58
  • msg #94

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Ever vigilant, Berta takes heed of those amongst the crowd who choose to read the notice her brother posted, her brow rising almost imperceptibly as Darius ventures over to the bar, his surreptitious glances not escaping her attention.
~Findlas
NPC e, 9 posts
World Weary
Wary Gnome
Thu 11 Jul 2019
at 17:12
  • msg #95

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Findlas walked up to the bar and took at look at the notice that had grabbed the attention of others since he'd come in waiting, wondering what it might be about.
DM
GM, 3108 posts
Thu 11 Jul 2019
at 17:53
  • msg #96

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

The Notice Reads
~Findlas
NPC e, 10 posts
World Weary
Wary Gnome
Thu 11 Jul 2019
at 18:05
  • msg #97

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

He chuffed a bit to himself when he read the notice and popped up on a stool and said to the bartender. "So... says someone wants a skilled jeweler. I happen to be one such. Who needs what done?"
DM
GM, 3109 posts
Thu 11 Jul 2019
at 18:24
  • msg #98

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

The bartender nods, and calls Wyn over.

The bard looks down at the gnome.  "So you are a jeweller?  And you say you are a skilled jeweller?  OK, so show me some of your work."
~Findlas
NPC e, 11 posts
World Weary
Wary Gnome
Thu 11 Jul 2019
at 21:33
  • msg #99

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Findlas looked up at the man asking with a squint in his eye, "I do say, yup. I don't carry my work about with me because it's all sold son. Just arrived in town after all. You show me some jewels that need work though and I'll show you my work first hand."

He did reach into a pack and pull out some incredibly well-made tools for jewel work. "Gnome doesn't come by tools like this less he's got some skill with the work. But if you need me to show you jewels I've cut and polished, well there's none right now."
_ Wyn Roth
NPC, 17 posts
Flamboyant Half-Elf
Thu 11 Jul 2019
at 22:23
  • msg #100

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"And you just expect me to hand over precious metals to the first gnome who happens to pop into my bar?  That is a good way to lose money real quick.  Look, I am not saying you will do a runner on me, but I need some sort of references or surety before I have over a lump of gold t a complete stranger.  I expect you want to see the money, before you hand over a finished piece of work ...."
~Findlas
NPC e, 12 posts
World Weary
Wary Gnome
Thu 11 Jul 2019
at 22:36
  • msg #101

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"Well, like I said. I just got to town so I don't have much to give you that'll act as a guarantee. Friend of mine sent for me. Said I might find things to interest me down here that I hadn't seen before. It was time for me to move on so I took her up on it. I'm hoping to meet up with her down here, but I've got the letter she sent me. She works for that Lord Henry doin' some such, and I think she's getting me setup up at Oleg's too. I passed through there on the way in, but they told me she was down this way doing things." Findlas grumbled to the man as he pulled out a letter to show Wyn.

"As to payment..." he shrugged. "If you try to stiff me, I'll have the jewels which are worth more than my work likely. So... don't stiff me and we'll be fine. I don't need to see your money before I do the work, just when you want to claim the jewel or jewels back."
~Berta Roth
NPC p, 31 posts
Human Female Dragonfriend
Let's do it my way
Fri 12 Jul 2019
at 06:47
  • msg #102

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Stuck helping out behind the bar this evening Berta half listens to the conversation betwixt the gnome and her elder brother, while keeping an eye out for Winnie, ready to send Ged, whose turn it is to watch the crowd, to intercept and divert her sister-in-law away from them should it prove necessary.

"They're a thirsty lot these Tuskers !" she grins to one of the servers, filling another jug of ale and passing it over.
_ Wyn Roth
NPC, 18 posts
Flamboyant Half-Elf
Fri 12 Jul 2019
at 07:19
  • msg #103

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Wyn reads the letter that Findlas hands over and starts to smile as the gnome threatens him.  "I see you haven't quite got the idea.  There are no jewels, just the gold.  However, this resolves the problem," he says waving the letter around, before returning it to the Gnome.  "I'll pop into see you next time I am up at Oleg's and you have your workshop set up."

Wyn waves one of the servers across, then turns back to the Gnome.  "Thank you for coming across to see me,  allow me to buy you a drink ..." he says indicating the server.
Adoven
Player, 492 posts
HP 34 AC 18 F+2 R+8 W+2
Rogue / Bard
Fri 12 Jul 2019
at 07:26
  • msg #104

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

In reply to ~Findlas (msg # 101):

Adoven is nursing an ale and contemplating plans for the future. He walks up holding his mug and asks "Good sir, are you from Jovvox by any chance?"
_ Wyn Roth
NPC, 19 posts
Flamboyant Half-Elf
Fri 12 Jul 2019
at 07:36
  • msg #105

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

With a smile towards the merchant, Wyn instructs the server, "Oh, and get one for Adoven as well."
~Berta Roth
NPC p, 32 posts
Human Female Dragonfriend
Let's do it my way
Fri 12 Jul 2019
at 13:25
  • msg #106

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Berta has two cups of ale waiting on the counter by the time the server turns about again, ready to lift them onto the tray and send her on her way.

Jovvox ?  Somewhere in the River Kingdoms, she thinks, though her grasp of the geography of these parts is uncertain.
~Findlas
NPC e, 13 posts
World Weary
Wary Gnome
Fri 12 Jul 2019
at 17:07
  • msg #107

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Findlas looks oddly at Wyn, "yeah. Guess I didn't get it, but now I do. Usually when I see a note like that it's someone wanting some rough stuff cleaned up for a fee, not ready coin to spend on already done work. But I get you now. Sure come on up when in a few weeks. I should have some stuff by then." He nodded his thanks for the drink and sipped it as Adoven walked up.

"Jovvox? Not so much, but I've passed through a time or two. Adoven's your name then? What's Jovvox to you?"
Adoven
Player, 493 posts
HP 34 AC 18 F+2 R+8 W+2
Rogue / Bard
Fri 12 Jul 2019
at 17:20
  • msg #108

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Adoven says "my company and I are looking to expand trade to the south. It occurs to me that being able to set up a jetty in Jovvox might be mutually beneficial with Tusk. Somehow I don't see Mivon welcoming a competing shipper within their city unless I establish a semi-local presence first."
~Findlas
NPC e, 14 posts
World Weary
Wary Gnome
Fri 12 Jul 2019
at 18:10
  • msg #109

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Findlas nodded, "ahh. Well as to that, not sure what help I'll be. As I said, I've been there and passed through. Not from there though, so not much help to you in trying to set something up."

"If you do get a meet with someone down there, I might could write you an introduction or some such one gnome to another, but beyond that not sure what help I could be."
~Berta Roth
NPC p, 33 posts
Human Female Dragonfriend
Let's do it my way
Thu 26 Dec 2019
at 12:38
  • msg #110

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

While the well-to-do or at least well-connected have secured an invite to the celebrations at Lemaistre Hall, the Dragon's Den is the place to be for all the rest !

The common room might not be so grand as the fine chamber in which Lord Henry and Lady Bai hold court, but the fire is warm, the atmosphere most convivial, the smells from the kitchen mouth-watering, the resident musicians in fine form and the wine and ale free-flowing, requiring no title or holdings, just a paltry few coin to enable one to enjoy Winterfest to the full !

This night it is Gedd's turn behind the bar, while Berta has the task of ensuring the fun does not get too out of hand.
~Folfast Balhon
NPC p, 3 posts
Author, poet & playwright
Guest at the Roth's Inn
Thu 26 Dec 2019
at 13:03
  • msg #111

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Warmed by both fire and ale, and with the crowd banging their tankards upon the tabletops to the beat, Folfast finishes up the 'Winterfest Ode' with a triumphant flourish.

"Though its dark and cold and the wolves grow bold ...

With a cup in my hand I will make my stand !"


Raising fiddle and bow to acknowledge the applause the large man generously defers his audience to those who share the stage with him, waving to each in turn, before holding up a hand for quiet.

"Mercy !" Folfast pleads.  "At least allow me to drain a cup myself before we continue on our way most merry !"
~Gedd
NPC p, 20 posts
Gedd Roth
Half-orc archer
Thu 26 Dec 2019
at 13:22
  • msg #112

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Gedd grins across the room at Folfast as he pours a mug of ale and beckons Winnie to deliver it to him.

"Get that to Folfast before he sits down or there's no telling when we'll have him back on his feet again," he chuckles.

Still chuckling he turns to the large iron pot suspended above a charcoal brazier behind the bar. The delicious aroma of warm, spiced wine wafts out as he lift the lid and ladles a small portion into a mug. He smiles happily as he takes a sip and nods to the older man helping him behind the bar tonight.

"That's perfect, Pete. On a cold night like this there's nothing that warms your belly like mulled wine."
_ Wyn Roth
NPC, 20 posts
Flamboyant Half-Elf
Thu 26 Dec 2019
at 14:05
  • msg #113

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"Oh.  He's not that bad ..."  Wyn admonishes his brother, "and it saves me having to be up on the stage all the time.  And the crowd seems to enjoy it."

Wyn sets up cups of the mulled wine for Winnie and Berta, ready for when they finish their latest security and delivery rounds, and raises his own glass towards Pete.  "You always manage to get this just right ..."
Cass Mordane
Player, 459 posts
Bard, Sword Scion
Sometime Diplomat
Sat 4 Jan 2020
at 23:20
  • msg #114

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Since the Tusk council would be holding its formal meetings again for the citizens of Midmarch to make their requests and thoughts known, Cass thought it was a good idea to allow for some informal meetings as well. He could think of no better place to do so than everyone’s favorite little watering hole, The Dragons Den.

After smiling and waving to those who greeted him, Cass chose to put forth a request of his own. “A round for the house, including proprietors, on me, if you wouldn’t mind.” Cass said politely. “And a round of Grog for myself, please.”
~Folfast Balhon
NPC p, 4 posts
Author, poet & playwright
Guest at the Roth's Inn
Sun 5 Jan 2020
at 06:13
  • msg #115

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"Well said, sir !  Well said !" Folfast booms his thanks to Cass, draining the cup Winnie brought him in a toast to the Bard, ready for the next round.

"Have you any requests ?  A favourite tune we might regale you with in gratitude for your largess ?"
Cass Mordane
Player, 470 posts
Bard, Sword Scion
Sometime Diplomat
Thu 9 Jan 2020
at 01:44
  • msg #116

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

“Are you familiar with a little ditty called Bile That Cabbage Down?” Cass asked with a smile. “It’s a catchy one that I often find stuck in my head. If not, anything with a bit of a ramble for a good time sounds just fine.”
This message was last edited by the player at 01:46, Thu 09 Jan 2020.
_ Wyn Roth
NPC, 21 posts
Flamboyant Half-Elf
Thu 9 Jan 2020
at 08:09
  • msg #117

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"Turn them ho cakes around."  Wyn echoes from the other end of the bar
~Folfast Balhon
NPC p, 5 posts
Author, poet & playwright
Guest at the Roth's Inn
Thu 9 Jan 2020
at 13:51
  • msg #118

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Folfast eyes Cass levelly, a grin spreading across his face as Wyn prompts him.

"Ah yes," the big man booms.  "I've heard that version, indeed ... but the folks in these parts are rather more partial to their grog than their greens, so we sing it somewhat differently here ..."

"Ready lads and lasses ?!!" he roars.  "Are your cups charged ?  Well then !"

Climbing back upon onto the stage with a grunt of effort, he begins to stamp his foot upon the boards, establishing the rhythm, waiting until everyone has their cup filled before he launches into the song.

Drink that flagon down, down
Turn that cup around
Fill it up and raise it high
An' drink that flagon down !

Climbed myself a mountain
To raise my cup so high
But from above did Dragon dive
To drank my flagon dry !

Drink that flagon down, down
Turn that cup around
Fill it up and raise it high
An' drink that flagon down !

Sittin' in a gnarled old tree
About to drink me fill
But that just made the dryad mad
An' she my mug did swill !

Drink that flagon down, down
Turn that cup around
Fill it up and raise it high
An' drink that flagon down !

Took me to the desert
The heat got to my brain
An' all the salamanders
My chalices they drained !

Hid me in a hole in ground
Upon the earth so soft
But angry Xorn made me forlorn
When he my tankard quaffed !

Drink that flagon down, down
Turn that cup around
Fill it up and raise it high
An' drink that flagon down !

Sailed out on the ocean
Din' know down from up
Till kraken roused from the depths
An' it my goblet supped !

Oooooh ... drink that flagon down, down
Turn that cup around
Fill it up and raise it high
Aaaaan' ... DRINK that flagon DOWN!

This message was last updated by the GM at 01:09, Wed 24 June 2020.
Cass Mordane
Player, 495 posts
Bard, Sword Scion
Sometime Diplomat
Tue 4 Feb 2020
at 23:55
  • msg #119

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

It had been a rousing and pleasantly surprising rendition, and Cass raised his mug in salute. “Incomparable!” And it was, Cass would remember the song and the moment for many long days into the future.

Now that everyone was in a sufficiently good mood, the mayor of Tusk found himself a table and had a seat. Anyone who wished to talk to him for either business or pleasure could make themselves welcome at the table.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:59, Tue 04 Feb 2020.
Alisa D'Medvyed
player, 193 posts
Half-elf Cleric
AC 16 Hps 21
Wed 5 Feb 2020
at 20:34
  • msg #120

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Alisa made her way into the Dragon, expressly with the intent of locating said Mayor.  Someone had told her that he might be found here.

She entered on the tail end of the tune, and looked with some regard at the performing minstrel -    Well, he has a profound presence and voice, she reflected.

By description, she spotted the Mayor, approached, and introduced herself -

"Mayor Mordane, good day to you.    I'm Alisa D'Medvyed, a new business owner in Tusk, and...a priestess.   Is this a convenient time to speak concerning a few things?"

Cass Mordane
Player, 496 posts
Bard, Sword Scion
Sometime Diplomat
Wed 5 Feb 2020
at 21:04
  • msg #121

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Cass stood at the woman’s arrival.  He gave what he believed was an appropriate bow given the situation, and welcomed her with a smile. “Ah, yes, Lady D'Medvyed.  The magical supply shop, Sisters of the Moon. I do recall.”

Cass gestured to the seat opposite.  “It would be my pleasure to entertain your company. Please, have a seat and we may discuss whatever you wish. May I offer you a glass of perlet, a Poacher’s Pale Ale, or other refreshment? And please, call me Cass.”
This message was lightly edited by the player at 21:04, Wed 05 Feb 2020.
_Winnie
NPC, 22 posts
Smiling Half-Elf
Wed 5 Feb 2020
at 21:13
  • msg #122

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Seeing the newly created Lord-Mayor speaking with a young woman, Winnie smiles softly and wonders slightly about their relationship.  It was, after all, about time he was snapped up.  if ever there was an eligible bachelor ....  Then she looks across at Wyn and smiles, happy that she has the better part of the deal.

"Can I get you anything ..." she asks as she approaches the table. ...
Alisa D'Medvyed
player, 196 posts
Half-elf Cleric
AC 16 Hps 21
Wed 5 Feb 2020
at 21:43
  • msg #123

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

She took the offered seat. "Aye.  Sisters of the Moon, it is.   And, please -- it's just Alisa. My family are land-holders, but calling us nobility is a bit of a stretch."   Lady D'Medvyed was how her step-mother liked to style herself.  She couldn't help but think of her whenever she heard it.   Not in any good way.

"The perlet sounds excellent, I think I'm going with that, thank you," she said to both Cass, as well as the server.

"Well, what I mainly want to address has more to do with my role as a cleric, than a business owner.    What are your general feelings, as regards new temples or churches within Tusk?   Particularly, as regards a religion that isn't ...so well established, in these lands?"     Now, that was putting it mildly...   
_Winnie
NPC, 23 posts
Smiling Half-Elf
Wed 5 Feb 2020
at 22:02
  • msg #124

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Perlet delivered, Winnie makes her way back to the bar area, but keeps an eye on the Lord-Mayor's table -  just in case more drinks are required.
Cass Mordane
Player, 497 posts
Bard, Sword Scion
Sometime Diplomat
Thu 6 Feb 2020
at 00:20
  • msg #125

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

“Thank you,” Cass  said to Winnie when she brought the perlet. It was hardly a secret that Cass had a fondness for the sparkling white wine, or that he hoped to begin bottling his own version someday.

Cass knew it would be impolite to laugh, but the question was one that he considered somewhat charming, given his own nature. “It might not be well known, but I personally am an adherent of Cayden Cailean. I tend to favor religious freedom unless it involves dark deeds such as drowning people in rivers and other such nonsense. I doubt your own tendencies run so dark. What do you have in mind?”
This message was last edited by the player at 00:21, Thu 06 Feb 2020.
Alisa D'Medvyed
player, 197 posts
Half-elf Cleric
AC 16 Hps 21
Thu 6 Feb 2020
at 02:30
  • msg #126

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Alisa herself laughed a little at his response, feeling more at ease in this conversation now.

"No, no, nothing like that.   On a really bad day, I may get kind of sarcastic, and use some un-priestess like language. That's about it.   Do you know the name Acavna?" 

She tapped the sigil she wore, cast in silver - a pair of spears crossed atop a moon.
Cass Mordane
Player, 498 posts
Bard, Sword Scion
Sometime Diplomat
Thu 6 Feb 2020
at 06:00
  • msg #127

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Sarcastic, and using un-priestess like language? That was his every day behavior, especially while on a mission. Cass thought, but his face quickly became somber. The conversation had turned serious and in its way sacred.

“Not well enough to speak on, but I know of her great sacrifice.” Cass took note of the sigil and nodded his understanding. “I don’t think our good king, er, Lord Governor Henry would have any issues with a church for Acavna. Or any of the Tusk council members. All that should be needed is finding a proper location and dedicating the resources to its construction.”
Alisa D'Medvyed
player, 198 posts
Half-elf Cleric
AC 16 Hps 21
Thu 6 Feb 2020
at 22:04
  • msg #128

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

I think Cass would probably get (maybe in later reflection) that Alisa was joking; it was said with a smile, which I forgot to note.    She's fairly straight laced, when compared to some, but not like a modern day nun, or such.  She was just trying to be funny.

"I'm glad to hear that.   Reactions to the idea have been mixed, though most of those whose opinion will matter, have been encouraging.  As the mayor, I did feel it was important to speak with you early on.    I didn't want it to be any surprise once the time comes.  Domitius Solamnus has been aiding me with the planning --  he suggested a location near Lake Silvertop, and its tributary river. (Hex 16) Unless it poses a problem, I think I'm set on that.     As for resources -- right now my focus is on gathering them.    I'm not looking to start before I have enough to really do this the right way." 
Kendrick Winters
player, 395 posts
Marshal-Dominus-Tusk Town
Knight Paladin of Iomedae
Fri 7 Feb 2020
at 16:07
  • msg #129

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Kendrick entered the Dragons Den. He smiled as he was ushered to his table. He glanced around the room and gave a brief nod of acknowledgement before he sat down at his table. "Wine. Warm bread and meats." He ordered...


link to a message in this game

Kendrick moved to his table since someone was already busy in a conversation.

This message was last edited by the player at 00:19, Sun 09 Feb 2020.
Cass Mordane
Player, 500 posts
Bard, Sword Scion
Sometime Diplomat
Thu 13 Feb 2020
at 20:23
  • msg #130

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den


Cass gave Kendrick a welcoming nod as well.

“My thanks to you for the consideration,” Cass said to Alisa. “I am somewhat familiar with the area you mention and feel that it is only fair to warn you that it has been some of the most dangerous that I have seen in Midmarch. On patrols we have encountered a wyvern, a roc, and a cyclops near there. Due to its being a bit less traveled perhaps more fearsome creatures have felt secure in nesting there. I say this not to dissuade your choice of location, but to recommend that the area should be extensively scouted and patroled as you populate the area.”
Alisa D'Medvyed
player, 203 posts
Half-elf Cleric
AC 16 Hps 21
Fri 14 Feb 2020
at 04:51
  • msg #131

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Alisa had likewise paused to wave a brief salutation to Sir Kendrick, whom had led the last major outing for Lord Henry of which she had been a part.

Then she considered Cass' warning words, and nodded.   "Yes -- the region has its perils.   There are plans being laid to first secure and then settle the area.   Though, that doesn't mean it will be free of all threats, of course.  But, my Lady is goddess of Defensive battle. Thus, her temple will be a highly defensible bastion.   A place where those under threat may come for protection."       
~Berta Roth
NPC p, 35 posts
Human Female Dragonfriend
Let's do it my way
Mon 17 Feb 2020
at 11:06
  • msg #132

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Berta for one has never heard of Acavna or her sacrifice ... but Alisa seems well-spoken and of a pleasant demeanor, so the Dragon's resident bouncer is willing to give her the benefit of the doubt.

Satisfied that the newcomer is unlikely to disturb the evening's festivities, the warrior-woman turns her attention elsewhere.
Cass Mordane
Player, 504 posts
Bard/Sword Scion/Diplomat
My Sword Sings
Wed 19 Feb 2020
at 21:37
  • msg #133

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

“It sounds that you have matters well in hand.” Cass admitted. “If I can be of any assistance in getting you established, please let me know.”
Alisa D'Medvyed
player, 210 posts
Half-elf Cleric
AC 16 Hps 21
Thu 20 Feb 2020
at 03:07
  • msg #134

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Huzzah --  I didn't get bounced! That would have been embarrassing.  ;)

"Thank you for that, Cass.   And in turn, if I can be of assistance to Tusk or your own endeavors, then that offer is mutual."       She took a sip of her perlet, and asked "I've heard tell you are quite talented in the art of music - do you still perform?"
Cass Mordane
Player, 507 posts
Bard/Sword Scion/Diplomat
My Sword Sings
Thu 20 Feb 2020
at 22:22
  • msg #135

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Cass didn't exactly blush, but his face may have thought about it for a moment. "I think someone has been rather generous in describing my musical prowess, but yes, I do still perform occasionally when they will allow me."
Alisa D'Medvyed
player, 212 posts
Half-elf Cleric
AC 16 Hps 21
Fri 21 Feb 2020
at 20:43
  • msg #136

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

She was a bit surprised by his modesty.   It was something different than the usual bard.    And it was her turn to laugh a little.  "Indeed?  And who gets to tell the mayor whether or no he go out and play?" 
~Berta Roth
NPC p, 36 posts
Human Female Dragonfriend
Let's do it my way
Sat 22 Feb 2020
at 00:54
  • msg #137

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Berta snorts, most unlady-like, a broad grin stealing over her.
Cass Mordane
Player, 511 posts
Bard/Sword Scion/Diplomat
My Sword Sings
Sun 23 Feb 2020
at 05:42
  • msg #138

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Cass laughed. “I don’t think I would be mayor of anything for long if I went around accosting people in their businesses or open public with bad music. Other than that, the way it normally works is that Bai tells Henry what to do and Henry tells me. I just try to help where I can.”

When someone was available, Cass ordered a glass of port to be sent over for Marshall Winters to enjoy after his meal as well as an invitation to join Cass and Alisa if he so desired. Kendrick had said that he would like to discuss the troops and defenses of Tusk with Cass when next they had an opportunity. He may have meant that conversation to happen here in the Den.

“Would you like some more perlet or anything else?” Cass enquired. “The Roths manage to attract a fair number of bards to keep their clientele entertained, so it is not unusual to hear fine music here on any given night. I was a street performer in Restov and my mother waited tables at an inn much like this one, so I have gained something of a discerning ear over the years. Do you sing?”
This message was last edited by the player at 05:45, Sun 23 Feb 2020.
Alisa D'Medvyed
player, 214 posts
Half-elf Cleric
AC 16 Hps 21
Sun 23 Feb 2020
at 19:43
  • msg #139

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"Thank you for asking, I'm probably sticking with one glass."  Alisa's eyes flicked briefly toward the red-haired bouncer, when she made her snort.

She smiled.  "Ah ha.   I see how it works, then.  Makes complete sense. Though, I've a hunch you may be underrating your talent.  But of course, you would know better than I."   It was her turn to laugh a bit, when asked if she was a singer.

"I think we'll leave that to the imagination, for now.   I've had no training or practice to speak of. Unless we count times where I knew I was good and alone.  But, it is something I would like to learn, given the time.  For religious uses, firstly. But also for fun."

After finishing her glass of wine, and concluding any conversation, Alisa arose "My thanks to you for your time, and the information, Cass.  Until next time, then."
This message was last edited by the player at 19:24, Sun 01 Mar 2020.
~Folfast Balhon
NPC p, 6 posts
Author, poet & playwright
Guest at the Roth's Inn
Sun 22 Mar 2020
at 12:30
  • msg #140

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Upon the stage, Folfast sways happily, a liquor fuelled smile upon his lips.  Somewhat unsteadily he places his cup on the floor then takes up his fiddle, nodding to the group of players, as he stamps his foot to set the beat.

"Entertainment ?!!  You wish then to bear witness to the celebration of high and lofty art that the ears the patrons of this fine establishment are oft times privileged to hear ?"


"Very well then !" he announces with a roar, "we shall regale you fine gentles ... and all the rest of ye ne'er-do-wells besides !" his grin broadens as he stares out at the assembled patrons, saluting them with his bow.  "I give you ... the Ballad of Bish ..." his announcement falters for but a heartbeat as he catches Berta's eye and swiftly backtracks "...with the Ballad of Unlucky Jak !"

Lightning bolt flies from Wand of Wonder
Butterflies come streaming at me
The paladin said
"Look out up ahead !
"A Flesh to Stone's a hundred to three !"

Gorum, you know it ain't easy
You know how hard it can be
The way things are going
They're gonna petrify me

Ugly looking chicken hops forward
Muddled up with lizard and bat
Wonders' ne'er cease
It's a damn cockatrice
Just one touch and you're stoned and that's that !

Gorum, you know it ain't easy
You know how hard it can be
The way things are going
They're gonna petrify me

Another reptilian monster
Shuffling along on the floor
The sorcerer cries
"Just don't look in its eyes !
Just one glance and it is statues for sure !"

Gorum, you know it ain't easy
You know how hard it can be
The way things are going
They're gonna petrify me

Found a pair of fine crystal lenses
Tried them on and thought I might take a punt
To my satisfaction
They're Eyes of Petrifaction
Just don't put them on back to front !

Gorum, you know it ain't easy
You know how hard it can be
The way things are going
They're gonna petrify me

My date turned out to be a real horror
Her hair started hissing at me
Stared down a Medusa
And I was the loser
Between a rock and I hard place I be

Gorum, you know it ain't easy
You know how hard it can be
The way things are going !
They're gonna petrify me !



OOC: fashioned after the Ballad of John and Yoko with utterly abject apologies to Mr Lennon
~Berta Roth
NPC p, 37 posts
Human Female Dragonfriend
Let's do it my way
Thu 26 Mar 2020
at 13:20
  • msg #141

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Berta is somewhat mollified by Folfast's change of tune, but at the conclusion she heads purposefully towards the stage.

"I think I need to walk him around outside for a while," the warrior-woman mutters darkly.

"If you fancy a shot at stardom, you're up !" she grins broadly at Cass as she strides past his table.
Cass Mordane
Player, 526 posts
Bard/Sword Scion/Diplomat
My Sword Sings
Mon 1 Jun 2020
at 09:17
  • msg #142

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

“One could hardly pass up such a golden opportunity.” Cass grinned.

“If you will excuse me....” Cass gave Alisa as formal a retreating bow as the furniture allowed and moved out to present the room with a little tune from his own repertoire. Hopefully it would lift spirits even more.

“I like a warm bed and a good meal and a pint or seven can send me to heaven but Henry pays me well to first go out and then bring back the tale. So I like a bit of adventuring.”

  The Glory of Adventure

When the enemy's surrounding,
and we think our nerves will fail,
when we hear the trumpets sounding,
and they make us quake and quail,
grab your mug and we'll be pounding,
down another round of ale!

And we'll drink,
to the glory of adventure!

If there ever comes the day
when we think that we are lost,
when we think that we must pay
that most dear and final cost,
we'll just pass around the tray,
and feel better when we're sauced!

And we'll drink,
to the glory of adventure!

When we're angry and upset,
'cause we ain't been getting paid,
when we're tired, cold and wet,
and a little bit afraid,
we'll keep drinking and forget
that we ever were dismayed!

And we'll drink,
to the glory of adventure!

When the boredom makes us jumpy,
and the motion makes us ill,
when the food is cold and lumpy,
a disgusting, slimy swill,
there's no reason to be grumpy;
tap the keg, and drink your fill!

And we'll drink,
to the glory of adventure!

When the captain's really sore,
'cause he thinks he's being mocked,
when he's pounding on our door,
and we're certain to get socked,
have a drink, and tease him more;
we'll feel nothing if we're crocked!

And we'll drink,
to the glory of adventure!

This message was last edited by the player at 09:18, Mon 01 June 2020.
Cass Mordane
Player, 551 posts
Bard/Sword Scion/Diplomat
My Sword Sings
Wed 24 Jun 2020
at 17:19
  • msg #143

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

It had been some time since Cass had sang his little ditty at the Dragons Den. This time he was arriving in hopes of learning some valuable information.

“Two pitchers of your finest Poachers Pale Ale!” Cass called out as he selected a table. “I’m expecting friends, and if not, it will just be a fun night for me!”
This message was last edited by the player at 17:19, Wed 24 June 2020.
Adoven
Player, 696 posts
HP 40 AC 20 F+2 R+9 W+2
Rogue / Bard
Thu 25 Jun 2020
at 16:38
  • msg #144

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Adoven slides into one of the open benches. "Still haven't lost the touch, Cass, though your upper range has a small tremor of vibrato. Got to watch that in the future. I've taken the liberty of inviting Rudolpho Redmop to this little meeting. He's to run the Merchant Shop I'm building for the gnomes. In addition to gnome steel, I understand they are adept brewers as well, so we might start seeing those products as well."
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:08, Thu 25 June 2020.
Cass Mordane
Player, 552 posts
Bard/Sword Scion/Diplomat
My Sword Sings
Thu 25 Jun 2020
at 18:50
  • msg #145

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

“Thank you. I will need to watch that. Vibrato is always a poor stand-in for range.” Cass lifted the pitcher and poured a glass of ale before setting it in front of Adoven. Cass nodded approvingly upon hearing that Redmop would be attending as well. “Excellent. I am hoping that this is the beginning of a very lucrative and friendly relationship between Midmarch and the Gnome community.”
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:08, Thu 25 June 2020.
Rudolphus Redmop
Thu 25 Jun 2020
at 19:12
  • msg #146

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

The small gnome, who perhaps gets his name from his unruly mop of red hair, climbs up onto a seat - his head barely rising above the tabletop.  "Do they have any bigger chairs in here?" He asks a bit peevishly.
This message was lightly edited by the GM at 19:12, Thu 25 June 2020.
Cass Mordane
Player, 553 posts
Bard/Sword Scion/Diplomat
My Sword Sings
Thu 25 Jun 2020
at 19:48
  • msg #147

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Cass pours the gnome a glass of ale and sets it before him. “Greetings, Master Redmop. Thank you for joining us. The disparity in size appropriate chairs are one of the many things I hope will change in Midmarch. We just need a few more appropriate crafters.”
Andalon de Lebeda
Player, 945 posts
Bishop at Cathedral of
Abadar in Tusk City
Fri 26 Jun 2020
at 15:07
  • msg #148

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Andalon was not exactly a frequent visitor to the Dragons Den but today proved to be an exception. He only hesitated at the doorway long enough to spot Cass and Adoven, then walked straight over to join them with a rolled up parchment in one hand.

"Good evening, Cass. Thankyou for inviting me to join you here. Adoven, a pleasure as always. I am afraid I haven't met your friend yet, though."
Rudolphus Redmop
Fri 26 Jun 2020
at 15:10
  • msg #149

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"Redcap.  Rudolphus Redmop.  Merchant of Jovvox."  the gnome responds to Andalon's greeting.
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:46, Fri 26 June 2020.
Andalon de Lebeda
Player, 946 posts
Bishop at Cathedral of
Abadar in Tusk City
Fri 26 Jun 2020
at 15:21
  • msg #150

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"Jovvox? You are certainly a long way from home, Master Rudolphus. Did you sail back with Cass and Adoven after their trip down the river?" Andalon enquired.
Cass Mordane
Player, 556 posts
Bard/Sword Scion/Diplomat
My Sword Sings
Fri 26 Jun 2020
at 18:28
  • msg #151

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Cass poured Andalon a glass of Poachers Pale Ale and sat it before him. He then waited for their gnomish guest to continue speaking. Cass was glad that Andoven invited Redmop along. The merchant might be able to help facilitate things.
Rudolphus Redmop
Fri 26 Jun 2020
at 19:44
  • msg #152

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"No.  I got a ride on one of the Yitis ships.   They owed me a favour, and it was a bit more comfortable than the vessel that Cass and Adoven were travelling in." The gnome responds.
_ Winnie Roth
NPC, 24 posts
Co-Owner: Dragons Den
in Tusk
Fri 26 Jun 2020
at 19:47
  • msg #153

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Just then Winnie  comes up to the table.  "What can I get you gentlemen?" She says greeting the Luminaries from Tusk, "Something to eat, perhaps.  More drinks?  And perhaps a taller seat for your friend?"
Cass Mordane
Player, 557 posts
Bard/Sword Scion/Diplomat
My Sword Sings
Fri 26 Jun 2020
at 20:07
  • msg #154

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Cass had hoped Marshal Winters would be able to make the meeting, but he might be tied up with important matters. Cass was reluctant to keep the others waiting, so he could fill the Marshal in later.

Cass took a sip of ale before speaking. “It has come to my attention that there have been regular migrations of Halflings from the River Kingdoms area through Midmarch up into New Stetven and Restov. I believe the Chain Ferry has been beneficial concerning these migrations in a number of cases. Purely speculation, but I believe that many, if not all, of these wandering Halflings are former slaves from areas that practice the nefarious act of slavery like Cheliax.”

Cass paused, and took another sip before indicating Andalon. “I believe that you retrieved a map from the old Stag Lord fort that was used as a guide to freedom for a number of former slaves.”

He redirected his gaze to include Rudolphus and Adoven. “I would like any possible help in inviting the Halflings, former slaves or not, to settle here in Midmarch instead. They are particularly welcome to settle in the area of Silverton, and are welcome to even create their own separate community there, pending Henry’s approval, of course.”

Cass had just finished speaking when Winnie arrived to offer further hospitality. “Yes, by all means, eat, drink, enjoy yourselves. As my guests.”
This message was last edited by the player at 20:08, Fri 26 June 2020.
Adoven
Player, 697 posts
HP 40 AC 20 F+2 R+9 W+2
Rogue / Bard
Fri 26 Jun 2020
at 23:25
  • msg #155

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Adoven shakes his head. "I'd forgotten about that map. I'll do what I can to help ferry any halfling settlers North to Tusk or Ringbridge. And I believe there is rich farmland near Fey Falls as well. Rudolphus, did you bring along any bottles of Jovvox's finest? Your breweries might find a market here in Tusk."
~Berta Roth
NPC p, 42 posts
Human Female Dragonfriend
Let's do it my way
Sat 27 Jun 2020
at 06:26
  • msg #156

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

On this occasion, Berta is working behind the bar, though she spares a moment for a nod and a smile in greeting to Cass as he enters, having enjoyed his musical offering the last time he took to the stage, for all she was stuck outside with Folfast.

Should the major's guest want a taller chair, she'll happily bring one over for him.
Andalon de Lebeda
Player, 948 posts
Bishop at Cathedral of
Abadar in Tusk City
Sat 27 Jun 2020
at 08:26
  • msg #157

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Andalon smiled at the barmaid's question.

"Thankyou, I am sure Mister Redmop would be more comfortable on a more suitable chair. I would quite enjoy a pie or pastry if you have something along those lines on the menu," he replied.

When Cass mentioned the map Andalon cleared a space on the table and unrolled the parchment he had brought with him. It was a rough, hand-drawn map (see the Game Map for Group M) encompassing the area of Midmarch east of the Narlmarches, the Kamelands east of the Tuskwater and the Shrike River from north of Ringbridge all the way south to Mivon.

"Yes, after we took Fort Tusk we found this in a backpack that looked like it had belonged to a halfling priestess. It seems to show a route north from Mivon to 'Freedom', crossing that southern river at the Chain Ferry and crossing the Shrike River up near Ringbridge."
Rudolphus Redmop
Sat 27 Jun 2020
at 09:32
  • msg #158

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"Only a personal supply." The gnome responds to Adoven, "But  there will be plenty of oppornity for you to trade in some of our more 'exotic' brews once you have established a regular trade route between our settlements.

Oh and a slightly taller chair would be most appreciated."
The gnome adds with a smile, towards Winnie.
_ Winnie Roth
NPC, 26 posts
Co-Owner: Dragons Den
in Tusk
Sat 27 Jun 2020
at 09:34
  • msg #159

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"A portion of game pie ...  Anything else?"  Winnie half asks as she signs across the bar to Berta, for a taller chair.
~Tic Hucklebuckle
NPC e, 1 post
Hunter and Tracker
Domitius Companion
Sat 27 Jun 2020
at 10:12
  • msg #160

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

The Dragon's Den, Tic had heard of it, his cousin Snick had said it was the sort of place he hoped his tavern would become when the opened up near the lake. He scratched at the goatee on his chin and peered at it for a moment before heading inside.  Tic was dressed in his town gear a white linen shirt, red waistcoat under a blue jacket.  Blue three quarter length trousers and bare feet.  Tonight he wore his lucky eyepatch over his left eye.

Making his way to the bar he climbed up onto a chair in order to be seen. "Ah bartender, a mug of cider if you please.  Not a bad place you have here. he said with a smile looking around as best his halfling height would allow.
Cass Mordane
Player, 559 posts
Bard/Sword Scion/Diplomat
My Sword Sings
Sat 27 Jun 2020
at 10:22
  • msg #161

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Cass had returned Berta’s greeting with a similar one of his own upon arriving. It was good to see the Dragons Den doing so well.

“Nothing more for me at the moment,” Cass answered Winnie.

“Being in the hospitality business,” Cass explained to Rudolphus, “I have use for good workers for my hotels and taverns. And I have plans for tea and coffee houses and a number of breweries myself. Any Halfling or Gnome with such expertise would be a welcome employee or perhaps even partner in such ventures.”
This message was last edited by the player at 10:23, Sat 27 June 2020.
~Berta Roth
NPC p, 45 posts
Human Female Dragonfriend
Let's do it my way
Sat 27 Jun 2020
at 13:42
  • msg #162

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"Home of Poacher's Pale - best ale there is," Berta smiles at the compliment Tic proffers, raising a brow to see if she can tempt him to change his mind.

Once he's made his decision and she's filled his cup, she ducks into the back room for a moment, returning with one of the taller chairs Winnie requested, casually carrying it over to Rudolphus's table (one-handed as you'd expect from the Dragon's part-time bouncer who has no objection to advertising that fact) to swap it over.

"Plenty of thirsty citizens for all of us," Berta grins at Cass.  "Maybe we should form a guild of our own ..."

Back at the bar, she turns her attention to Tic once more.

"Enjoying your drink ?  What brings you to Tusk - business or pleasure ?"
Rudolphus Redmop
Sat 27 Jun 2020
at 13:56
  • msg #163

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Rudolphus swaps seats, and thanks both Berta and Winnie as he climbs aboard the higher chair.

"I am sure that many of the halflings travelling this way would be please to know that." The red-haired gnome responds to Cass.  "I can have a message posted for you in Jovvox, although you could also put one in The Symphony Swans.  Recently, most of the halflings have been heading that way.  They say it has been blessed by Milani."
Andalon de Lebeda
Player, 951 posts
Bishop at Cathedral of
Abadar in Tusk City
Sat 27 Jun 2020
at 16:07
  • msg #164

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"Milani, yes, I believe there was some evidence that was the deity that our unknown halfling priestess served. Her holy symbol - a rose on a bloody street - was embroidered on a piece of white cloth in that backpack, if I recall correctly," Andalon advised thoughtfully. "Her clergy do seem rather more prone to becoming martyrs than would be considered desirable."
Adoven
Player, 698 posts
HP 40 AC 20 F+2 R+9 W+2
Rogue / Bard
Sat 27 Jun 2020
at 18:05
  • msg #165

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Adoven points out the southwest Red X. "There is where we encountered the Tedriculous. I think we can assume the other Red X's respresent Dangers. Perhaps the black X's are safe campsites?" He adds "perhaps we should set up traveller's lodges at those points?"
This message was last edited by the player at 18:33, Sat 27 June 2020.
Cass Mordane
Player, 560 posts
Bard/Sword Scion/Diplomat
My Sword Sings
Sun 28 Jun 2020
at 01:40
  • msg #166

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

“A brewer’s guild?” Cass lifted his glass to Berta in salute. “That is an excellent idea.”

“The Swans?” Cass asked Rudolphus. “Blessed by Milani? That is a surprise. Maybe Elkin has been keeping more secrets than I suspected. But yes, please. If you would place such a posting in Jovvox, I can certainly place such a posting at the Symphony of Swans.”

Cass listened as the others speculated about the mysterious map. “My guess is that you are right about the danger and the red X’s. And I quite like the idea of creating safe accommodations along the trail as well.”
This message was last edited by the player at 01:43, Sun 28 June 2020.
Rudolphus Redmop
Sun 28 Jun 2020
at 05:44
  • msg #167

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"Do you think the trail is still in use?" Rudolphus asks.  "After all, there are regular  river boat services here from the south?  I think most enterprising halflings, will find a way to work passage or hitch a ride.  I think your company employed one in Jovvox?" he adds looking across at Adoven.

Turning to Winnie, he follows Andalon's lead and orders a piece of the game pie, but with a mug of the local ale.
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:32, Sun 28 June 2020.
Andalon de Lebeda
Player, 952 posts
Bishop at Cathedral of
Abadar in Tusk City
Sun 28 Jun 2020
at 15:17
  • msg #168

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"You are probably right, Rudolphus. That map dates back to when the Stag Lord and his bandits controlled this area. Now it probably only serves to indicate a few more interesting sites for us to explore in future."
~Tic Hucklebuckle
NPC e, 2 posts
Hunter and Tracker
Domitius Companion
Sun 28 Jun 2020
at 23:58
  • msg #169

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"Right, make it a Poachers Pale then,  never doubt the barkeep in their own place as cousin Snicklesocks says." he grins and gives Berta a wink.  Taking the mug of ale he takes a long drink followed by a loud "Aaah, that hit the spot."  as Berta moves off he takes the time to look around from the chair he is standing on trying to get a better feel for the room.

As Berta returns he smiles again looks her up and down and says "Well now it could be a little of both.  This is a fine drop you have here, brewed on the premises?"
~Berta Roth
NPC p, 47 posts
Human Female Dragonfriend
Let's do it my way
Mon 29 Jun 2020
at 13:53
  • msg #170

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"Our brewery is down on Lakeside," Berta returns Tic's smile, pleased that her recommendation was both accepted and meets with the Halfling's approval. "We're using imported hops at the moment, but we're hoping to start growing our own in the future.

"You like it now, but just wait till those hops don't have to travel so far to get here !"

"A little of both is definitely the way to go," she agrees. "I always wanted to own a tavern and now me and my brothers have this place and I have to work at it !  Keeps me honest."
~Tic Hucklebuckle
NPC e, 3 posts
Hunter and Tracker
Domitius Companion
Mon 29 Jun 2020
at 23:46
  • msg #171

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"You have done well, it's a nice place and I see the town bigwigs are regulars." he nodded over towards the Bishop and Mayor.  "Still it's your job to hang around in a bar, what do you do for fun in Tusk?  It's my first time here in the city."
~Berta Roth
NPC p, 49 posts
Human Female Dragonfriend
Let's do it my way
Tue 30 Jun 2020
at 13:05
  • msg #172

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"Well ... a lot of people come here," Berta manages to keep a straight face as she sings the praises of the Dragon's Den"There's good ale, good food, good entertainment.  Later on there'll be musicians up on the stage - we've even had the Mayor take a turn ... and not just because he's the mayor - he's can carry a fine tune."

"I'd come here even if I didn't have to !"
~Tic Hucklebuckle
NPC e, 4 posts
Hunter and Tracker
Domitius Companion
Tue 30 Jun 2020
at 13:19
  • msg #173

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Tic nods "What about dancing, I'll bet by Chaldira you can dance up a storm when the music starts to play.  Or is it more of a sitting back listening kind of thing?"  he finishes the first mug of ale "Now that is good, I'll have another and one for you too, I'm Tic by the way?"
~Berta Roth
NPC p, 50 posts
Human Female Dragonfriend
Let's do it my way
Tue 30 Jun 2020
at 14:42
  • msg #174

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"I'll dance with a blade, but not else," Berta smiles.  "My brothers reckon between my dancing and my singing I'd scare all the paying customers away.  But I'll keep the beat on a drum when called for.  I'm good at hitting things."

"But when there's a lively tune you'll find someone to dance with," she agrees.

She pours Tic another drink, but refuses his kind offer with a smile.  "Not when they've got me working.  I'm Berta."
~Tic Hucklebuckle
NPC e, 5 posts
Hunter and Tracker
Domitius Companion
Wed 1 Jul 2020
at 04:52
  • msg #175

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Tic gave a slight sigh but smiled "Well Berta I'm pleased to meet you, now when do you finish so I can buy you that drink."  he said with a friendly wink.  "Even family has to let you have some play time."
~Berta Roth
NPC p, 51 posts
Human Female Dragonfriend
Let's do it my way
Wed 1 Jul 2020
at 14:27
  • msg #176

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Berta grins broadly.  "I never plan that far ahead !  And I've my reputation to think of - if I accept a drink from you, my regulars will think I'm going soft and next time they won't leave so politely when I ask them and I'll have to break something !"
~Tic Hucklebuckle
NPC e, 6 posts
Hunter and Tracker
Domitius Companion
Thu 2 Jul 2020
at 00:51
  • msg #177

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Tic nodded "Well if that's the case, I understand.  We could always go to Keira's place, Domitius said I should drop in and see what the place is like.  You could come along and give me your professional opinion." he smiles "and there are no brother's around to cramp your style." he gives Berta an innocent look followed by a cheeky smike.
~Berta Roth
NPC p, 52 posts
Human Female Dragonfriend
Let's do it my way
Thu 2 Jul 2020
at 13:38
  • msg #178

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"Well aren't you the charmer ?!" Berta laughs at the sheer cheek and persistence displayed by the Halfling.

"Sorry, Tic, you picked a loser.  Nobody asks me out.  It's rumoured that I might occasionally do the asking, but I'm pretty confident there's no one left alive who can collaborate that."

The innocent look just doesn't work on Berta's face, though she gives it a go.
~Tic Hucklebuckle
NPC e, 7 posts
Hunter and Tracker
Domitius Companion
Thu 2 Jul 2020
at 14:01
  • msg #179

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Tic chuckles, "Well you can't blame a fella for trying, still I accept your invitation.  Where are you taking me." he says with another cheeky grin.  "A ride in the hinterlands could be fun." the innocent look returned.
~Berta Roth
NPC p, 54 posts
Human Female Dragonfriend
Let's do it my way
Thu 2 Jul 2020
at 14:14
  • msg #180

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"I lay blame where I choose, and curse any who say otherwise !" Berta snorts with laughter.  "But you be sure to enjoy your ride around the wild lands - you can tell me all about it when you get back."

"If you get back," the smile is gone now. "I've heard it is rough out there.  If you do ride out then take care."
~Tic Hucklebuckle
NPC e, 8 posts
Hunter and Tracker
Domitius Companion
Thu 2 Jul 2020
at 15:24
  • msg #181

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"I have been hunting in these parts for years, I'm always careful.  My family has been in the area since we escaped Cheliax when I was a little fella."  he took a long drink "Thank the gods we all got out, I shudder to think what life would be like if we hadn't.  he takes another drink finishing his second "Take that Old Scratch freedom for all my kin."
DM
GM, 3790 posts
Thu 2 Jul 2020
at 15:31
  • msg #182

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Further along the bar a customer asks one of the other waiting staff for six pints of Poachers Pale, and heads back to his table, balancing a tray full of beer.
~Berta Roth
NPC p, 55 posts
Human Female Dragonfriend
Let's do it my way
Sun 5 Jul 2020
at 14:53
  • msg #183

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"We Roths are relative newcomers," Berta confides to Tic, "but like most of those who have  come here, trying to move on from what lies behind us."

The call for another half dozen pints takes Berta away from the Halfling as she fills the glasses and watches with some concern the progress of the customer with the laden tray as he navigates the Inn's common room.
DM
GM, 4190 posts
Sun 8 Nov 2020
at 21:12
  • msg #184

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

It's a new day in the Dragon's Den.  The floors have been swept, last night's rubbish has been cleared away, and the bar  has been polished.

The common room is scattered with tables, there are a couple of semi-private  booths with bench seating - and a stage for  musicians and other performers.  As always it is an open stage, and anyone (with an appropriate skill) is welcome to take a turn.
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:15, Sun 08 Nov 2020.
~Berta Roth
NPC p, 71 posts
Human Female Dragonfriend
Let's do it my way
Sun 22 Nov 2020
at 13:36
  • msg #185

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Berta prowls the floor of the Inn, her usual swagger evident in her step as she surveys her domain, stopping to banter with, greet or, occasionally, scare the paying guests as the mood takes her.

"Alisa and Domitius's wedding ?" she smiles. "Yeah, I was there.  For the ceremony at least.  Funny thing - most weddings end with a fight, not start with one !"  She snorts in laughter.

"Not the reception, though - far too formal for my blood.  Imagine me in one of those posh frocks !" This from a woman who feels woefully under-dressed when she doesn't have at least one blade close to hand.  "Wished the pair of them all the happiness they can find."

"Besides someone had to keep an eye on you sots !"
~Gedd
NPC p, 23 posts
Gedd Roth
Half-orc archer
Sun 22 Nov 2020
at 15:07
  • msg #186

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Just for a moment the Dragons Den is relatively quiet and Ged can step away from the bar. He walks over to Berta trying to hide a grin.

"You missed a great joke last night, Berta. There was a grumpy old dwarf in here for a while. I didn't catch his name but we got chatting for a while and he really brightened up when I told him about those three shades of dwarven ale we found out about back home - dark, darker and darkest. He took quite a shine to me after that. In the end he said the funniest thing I ever heard; he reckoned I've got more charisma than the rest of our family put together! Gods, how I laughed! I wish Wyn had heard that one. The look on his face would have been priceless."
_ Wyn Roth
NPC, 28 posts
Co-Owner: Dragons Den
in Tusk
Sun 22 Nov 2020
at 16:07
  • msg #187

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Wyn sees his brother walk across to Berta, a grin plastered all over his face, a wonders what they are plotting now.  When it is quiet and those two get bored ....

Making his way across, Wyn slaps his brother on the shoulder, "What gives?" he asks cheerfully.
~Berta Roth
NPC p, 72 posts
Human Female Dragonfriend
Let's do it my way
Mon 23 Nov 2020
at 12:24
  • msg #188

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Berta grins broadly at Gedd's recounting of the previous evening.  "Of course he would say that," she tells her younger brother fondly, "you are the baby of the family after all !"

"We've got to get some Dwarven Ale in or brew our own," she suggests to Wyn smiling at her elder brother in turn.  "We'd sell a bucketload."
~Gedd
NPC p, 24 posts
Gedd Roth
Half-orc archer
Mon 23 Nov 2020
at 13:28
  • msg #189

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"You remember those dwarves back home had dark ale, darker ale and darkest ale, right?" Gedd asked his brother. "I was wondering if we could brew something like that over here. The dark ale, I mean - the darker ale was scary stuff and we'd probably be arrested if we started selling the darkest.

"Do you remember when one of Henry's expeditions fetched some sort of special mushroom from the Mudbowl? It sounded like there was lots of weird fungi over there, with a proper monster guarding it. I'd wager a hundred gold there's something there that'd give a good, honest, dark ale the kind of kick that Dwarven Dark Ale had."

_ Wyn Roth
NPC, 29 posts
Co-Owner: Dragons Den
in Tusk
Mon 23 Nov 2020
at 13:43
  • msg #190

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"What?  The darkest dark ale?"  Win looks agog at the suggestion, "And are you suggesting that we make it here? in Tusk?"

Then a moment or two later he looks at the pair sideways  "You two are planning a little trip down there?  Aren't you?"
~Berta Roth
NPC p, 74 posts
Human Female Dragonfriend
Let's do it my way
Mon 23 Nov 2020
at 13:56
  • msg #191

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"There's no actual law against brewing the Darkest Ale," Berta points out.  "At least not yet ... unless the authorities classify it as a poison.  Or taste it ..."

"The hallucinations don't last that long !"
~Gedd
NPC p, 25 posts
Gedd Roth
Half-orc archer
Mon 23 Nov 2020
at 14:55
  • msg #192

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Gedd grinned a very toothy smile.

"No, not the Darkest. Not yet. Maybe never. Just the Dark Ale for starters," he clarified. "There'd certainly be a market for it here. I think the brewing of it had something to do with Shadowrock, didn't it? We don't have anything like that here, at least not that I've heard of. But some of those mushrooms just might do the trick.

"The catch is that monster down at the Mudbowl. It's definitely dangerous but there's a rumour that if that monster gets killed, the mushrooms will die out too. So getting our hands on a good range of those mushrooms to experiment with will be difficult enough in the first place and ongoing supply would be quite a challenge, as well."

~Darius
NPC e, 20 posts
Scribe, Carouser
Marik's Advocate
Mon 23 Nov 2020
at 15:10
  • msg #193

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Darius walked into Dragon's Den with a rolled up piece of parchment and small bag slung over his shoulder. It wasn't odd to see Darius at the Den throughout the day; he was known to enjoy his ale, good company, and a catchy tune. With a nod to the proprietors he latched onto the few words he heard as he entered, "Where are we going?" And with a smile he turned to Berta, "Looking lovely as always."
_ Wyn Roth
NPC, 30 posts
Co-Owner: Dragons Den
in Tusk
Mon 23 Nov 2020
at 15:12
  • msg #194

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Wyn breathes a sigh of relief, although he isn't sure about brewing narcotic ale -  at any strength.  Still, an experiment or two won't hurt , "So  are you two planning a trip down there, or were you intending to hire someone?"
~Berta Roth
NPC p, 75 posts
Human Female Dragonfriend
Let's do it my way
Mon 23 Nov 2020
at 22:17
  • msg #195

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

For a moment Berta considers it, raising a speculative eye at Gedd  ... then sighs and shakes her head.  "I must be getting old," she moans.  "No, we should hire someone," she tells Wyn, looking as though she finds the very words distasteful.

"And you just put that chair down Yon Famerson !  Don't make me come over there !"

She glares over her brothers' shoulders at the unruly patron.
_ Wyn Roth
NPC, 30 posts
Co-Owner: Dragons Den
in Tusk
Tue 24 Nov 2020
at 15:39
  • msg #196

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"Err ... I don't think we are going anywhere, Darius." Wyn responds to the young man.  "We have an inn to run now!  He says with a sharp look towards his brother.  "Gedd was just reminiscing about something that happened a long time ago, in a very different place."
This message was lightly edited by the player at 15:39, Tue 24 Nov 2020.
~Gedd
NPC p, 26 posts
Gedd Roth
Half-orc archer
Tue 24 Nov 2020
at 13:15
  • msg #197

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"No, not yet anyway," Gedd agreed with a twinkle in his eye.

"I might put the word out, though, that we'd be interested in buying any samples of mushrooms retrieved from the Mud Bowl. Someone's bound to visit the place again eventually."
~Berta Roth
NPC p, 77 posts
Human Female Dragonfriend
Let's do it my way
Tue 24 Nov 2020
at 14:08
  • msg #198

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"Tell them we're buying and you can win any wager the place will be overrun by morning !" Berta snorts.

"I'm watching you Yon Farme ... oh, you just wanted an extra chair.  That's alright then ..." she lets him off this time.

Matters there sorted to her satisfaction, the warrior-woman now turns her attention to Darius, eyes narrowing, ignoring the pleasantry.  The man is pretty enough for her tastes, pretty enough to stand out in this crowd, but spoils it by being what she terms 'friendly', or at least that's the word she chooses to use in polite company or what passes for such around here.

"We are staying right here," Berta tells him sternly.  "And we are keeping our hands to ourselves if we know what is good for us."
~Darius
NPC e, 23 posts
Scribe, Carouser
Marik's Advocate
Tue 24 Nov 2020
at 18:25
  • msg #199

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"We're staying here?" Darius asks with a sly grin. "Wonderful, that means we get to spend more quality time together," he adds with a wink to Berta. He carries his things to a nearby table and starts to roll out the parchment, which appears to be the start of a rather nice looking map of Midmarch.

After taking a seat, he turns to Gedd, "So what's so special about these mushrooms coming from the Mud Bowl? Maybe I could help you acquire some, that is kind of what I do."
~Berta Roth
NPC p, 78 posts
Human Female Dragonfriend
Let's do it my way
Wed 25 Nov 2020
at 12:39
  • msg #200

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"I hope he's already got a site for his grave marked out on that map," Berta rumbles, leaving Gedd to talk to Darius as she goes looking for trouble elsewhere in the common room.
_ Wyn Roth
NPC, 31 posts
Co-Owner: Dragons Den
in Tusk
Wed 25 Nov 2020
at 12:49
  • msg #201

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Wyn looks at Gedd expectantly.  After all, he is the charming one, who knows all about dark beers and mushrooms.  Wyn's hearing might be just a bit  better than he admits to.
~Berta Roth
NPC p, 79 posts
Human Female Dragonfriend
Let's do it my way
Wed 25 Nov 2020
at 13:10
  • msg #202

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"Give me a couple of bottles of the Darkest Ale to share at the next council meeting and we wouldn't have a problem getting a licence for it.  They'll be begging us to brew it.  I'd probably be anointed Queen of Midmarch by the end of the proceedings ..." Berta continues to mutter crossly as she looks for a patron to accost.
~Gedd
NPC p, 27 posts
Gedd Roth
Half-orc archer
Wed 25 Nov 2020
at 14:37
  • msg #203

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Gedd sits down with Darius to talk about mushrooms and dark ale. Darius's map certainly helps with the explanations.

"There's a strange old woman who the locals here call the Swamp Witch, who lives in a hut on the western side of the Tuskwater. She doesn't welcome visitors but will trade potions for black rattlecap mushrooms from the Mud Bowl, which is over on the eastern side of the Tuskwater. One of Lord Henry's exploration expeditions sailed over to the Mud Bowl and came back with one of those black rattlecap mushrooms. That's all they managed to get because the Mud Bowl is guarded by some sort of giant plant monster, or something like that. Anyway, they reported there were lots of different sorts of exotic mushrooms and toadstools in the Mud Bowl. But the catch is this - rumour says if the guardian monster is killed the mushrooms won't grow there anymore.

"As I was saying earlier, back home where we came from the dwarves used to brew three strengths of dark ale - dark, darker and darkest - with progressively stronger mind-bending side effects. One mug of their Dark Ale could knock you on your ear if you couldn't handle it, but I reckon there would be a good market for that if we could brew something like it here. Just the Dark Ale, mind, not the Darker Ale or the Darkest Ale.

"We don't have the key ingredient they used - something called shadowrock - but everyone's heard rumours about 'magic' mushrooms, right? Well, I'd bet some of those mushrooms from the Mud Bowl could give the right sort of kick to an ordinary dark ale to make it into something close to proper Dwarven Dark Ale. So, I would love to get hold of a good range of samples from the Mud Bowl so we can experiment with them over at our brewery."

~Darius
NPC e, 25 posts
Scribe, Carouser
Marik's Advocate
Thu 3 Dec 2020
at 23:02
  • msg #204

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"Hmm, well that is a quandary, isn't it," Darius asked as he rubbed his chin. "I'm sure you could commission some of these adventuring types to go get you some mushrooms, but you'd have to be careful they're not the kill first, ask questions later type if the rumors about the monster are true. And even if they did get ahold of some, what you really need is to setup a routine shipment of them. I wonder if anyone's tried to communicate with this plant monster, maybe try to establish an agreement of some sort? Maybe commission one of those druid types to go there and sort something out?"

He shrugs as he looks down at the map for moment, "Otherwise, maybe ask some of the dwarves that have migrated here? I know a couple pretty well, maybe you could setup a shipment of this shadowrock with them?"
_ Wyn Roth
NPC, 32 posts
Co-Owner: Dragons Den
in Tusk
Fri 4 Dec 2020
at 08:05
  • msg #205

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Wyn rolls his eyes.
~Gedd
NPC p, 28 posts
Gedd Roth
Half-orc archer
Fri 4 Dec 2020
at 14:03
  • msg #206

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Gedd grinned at Darius's suggestions and Wyn's reaction.

"One step at a time. I just want samples of those mushrooms to start with. I am only going on a hunch at this stage. Maybe none of them will work the way I hope. Perhaps someone who is sailing past the Mudbowl will visit and grab some samples for me. I'm not talking about a big enough reward to make it worthwhile funding an expedition just for that purpose.

"Forget I mentioned shadowrock at all. It is too far away to be economical to start shipping it here, and that stuff is too dangerous anyway."

Rana Nervetti
player, 72 posts
Tavern wench? Perhaps not
Current AC = 16
Wed 30 Dec 2020
at 20:00
  • msg #207

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Rana finally had an opportunity to explore Tusk.  She hadn't had a plan when she got up in the morning, except to get a feel for this city where she had ended up.  It was a long way from the mountains of her home and the relative flatness of the land made her somewhat uncomfortable, but she was certain that, in time, she would begin to get used to it.

Rana was dressed sensibly in what at first glance looked like a long skirt but was, in fact, high-waisted, wide-legged trousers which she paired with a long-sleeved blouse, her sturdy and well-broken in boots and her travellers' cloak.  Everything she wore had a "worn well" look, but it was all clean and free of any rips, tears or patches.

The young woman didn't feel uncomfortable walking around on her own, exploring the roads and stopping in at most of the businesses she passed so she knew who sold what and where she would be able to find things when she needed them.  She chatted amiably with the owners / staff of the various businesses trying to learn as much about the people of Tusk as she could.  One of the businesses which had caught her eye was Iomedae's Mission.  She enquired about weapons' training, and then spent about an hour looking at the books in their library. She didn't sign up for training, but she did ask if they could tailor training to suit her inherent lack of martial skill and how much it might cost.

It was getting on to late afternoon and Rana had seen about all that she had the patience for when she decided it might be a good time to stop for something to eat.  Several of the people she had spoken to throughout the day had mentioned the Dragon's Den to her, so she headed into the Merchant District hoping that she'd remembered where she'd seen it earlier in the day.  She paused outside the door, ran her fingers through her hair in an attempt to tame her tresses, then entered the bar.

In some respects it almost felt like coming home, but then, as her eyes adjusted to the light levels, she began to notice the differences.  Still, it was as close to a home feeling as she had since leaving the Stone Climbs.  She walked with assurance to the bar, taking in the people already there.

She caught the bartender's eye and smiled, "May I have a glass of wine, please and can you tell me what is on the menu this evening?"
Marik Aeris
Player, 335 posts
Wed 30 Dec 2020
at 21:12
  • msg #208

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Marik looked up from his table when Rana walked in; it was hard not to notice such an attractive woman entering the Dragons Den alone. The Den wasn't exactly one of his common haunts, but he'd come here to buy a couple of rounds for Alanna and her new husband before ushering them off to the room he'd rented for them at the Mithral Hotel.

Darius had always spoken fondly of the Dragons Den, so Marik had decided to stick around for a while and enjoy the music and try the stew, which he'd decided was surprisingly tasty. Upon hearing Rana's question to the bartender, he offered his own suggestion, "I'd recommend the stew, it's quite good and warms the heart."
~Gedd
NPC p, 29 posts
Gedd Roth
Half-orc archer
Thu 31 Dec 2020
at 07:19
  • msg #209

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

The half-orc behind the bar smiled as the young lady asked about food and drink, but his smile turned into a rather toothy grin (his tusks showing a bit more prominently when he grinned) when Marik offered his suggestion.

"The beef stew is very good," he agreed. "But we also have onion soup, baked fish, roast pork and a good selection of boiled vegetables or salad. There's bread with every meal too, for those who want it. Ask about desserts afterwards, if you're still hungry. Some of our customers insist that different wines go better with different types of foods, so that might weigh on your choice of red or white wine, Miss."
~Berta Roth
NPC p, 81 posts
Human Female Dragonfriend
Let's do it my way
Thu 31 Dec 2020
at 07:44
  • msg #210

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"... and so I told the guard 'these aren't the druids you're looking for' !" Berta finishes telling her tall tale.  "And by the Mother, the lout believed me !"

"Anyway ... duty calls," the Dragon's resident bouncer (at least for this evening with her younger brother working the bar) vacates her chair to continue her rounds of the common room, giving the newcomer an appraising glance as she does for any she'd not recognise as a regular, and then a nod and a smile as she noted the polite way in which Rana phrased her request.
_ Winnie Roth
NPC, 35 posts
Co-Owner: Dragons Den
in Tusk
Thu 31 Dec 2020
at 08:39
  • msg #211

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"Don't forget the duck soup." Winnie reminds her brother-in-law, as she makes her  way past the bar area on the way to check on another customer.
Rana Nervetti
player, 73 posts
Tavern wench? Perhaps not
Current AC = 16
Thu 31 Dec 2020
at 08:57
  • msg #212

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Rana's smile didn't falter as the half-orc behind the bar grinned.  She looked over at the blonde-haired man who had suggested the stew, nodding to him in acknowledgement before returning her attention to the barman.

"Being new to Tusk and the Dragon's Den, I will take the gentleman's recommendation and have the beef stew this time, with a glass of red wine, I think."  She paused for a moment as the familiarity of the setting helped her to relax.  Her voice softened just slightly as she added, "You have a nice place here, it feels like home."

Her eyes scanned the room, considering the seating options.
~Berta Roth
NPC p, 82 posts
Human Female Dragonfriend
Let's do it my way
Thu 31 Dec 2020
at 14:59
  • msg #213

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"It is home," Berta smiles warmly, her rounds not perchance bringing her in close proximity to the newomer.

"Pick whatever seat you like," she tells Rana, "I'll make sure you're not disturbed."
Marik Aeris
Player, 336 posts
Thu 31 Dec 2020
at 15:40
  • msg #214

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

As Rana scanned the room, Marik looked up, "If you're not expecting anyone, there is room at my table." He took a small bite from the bowl of stew in front of him. "Your name is Rana, yes? I am Marik Aeris."
~Gedd
NPC p, 30 posts
Gedd Roth
Half-orc archer
Fri 1 Jan 2021
at 00:16
  • msg #215

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Gedd grinned again at Berta's comment and nodded reassuringly to Rana.

He poured a glass of red wine and placed it on the bar in front of her.

"Your stew will be along shortly. We'll make sure it finds you, whichever table you choose."
Rana Nervetti
player, 74 posts
Tavern wench? Perhaps not
Current AC = 16
Fri 1 Jan 2021
at 00:38
  • msg #216

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Rana nodded at Gedd, and said a soft "Thank you" to Berta.  Whatever the story was with this tavern, it was a comfortable place where she felt safe.  'Maybe I can find my place in this new-to-me land,' she thought to herself as this was the first time she'd felt truly comfortable in a long while.

Rana picked her glass of wine off the bar, scanned the room once again, then headed for the table where Marik was seated.  She nodded at Marik, then sat down opposite him.

"Thank you for inviting me to join you, Marik.  Although I must admit, it's a bit disconcerting to think you know me, when I'm certain we've not met before."  Rana kept her tone light and amused as she spoke with a smile on her lips and surreptitiously studied her dining companion.
Marik Aeris
Player, 340 posts
Fri 1 Jan 2021
at 01:03
  • msg #217

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Marik smiled warmly at his new dining companion when she took the seat opposite of him. He raised his half full glass of wine in a sort of salute before taking a drink. "l promise it's nothing sinister. My advocate, Darius, lives here in Tusk and makes a point of knowing what's going on and who's here in the city. When he'd heard there was another sorcerer in town, he thought I might like to know; as far as I know you and I are the only ones in all of Midmarch. And let's be honest, even with just a general description, you are quite difficult to miss."
Rana Nervetti
player, 75 posts
Tavern wench? Perhaps not
Current AC = 16
Fri 1 Jan 2021
at 05:37
  • msg #218

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Rana listened to Marik's explanation of how he knew who she was as she watched him closely.  Her left eyebrow raised slightly as he named her a sorcerer, and then she could feel her face flush slightly in self-consciousness at his subtle flattery.  She averted her gaze for a moment, then raised her glass to him in salute.

"You are too kind, I think, but I thank you for the compliment.  However, it is still a bit disconcerting to know that someone in your employ has heard of me and my ability."  She frowned slightly at this thought, but continued, "It isn't something that I am used to discussing, if I'm honest.  It is just something that is, if you know what I mean.  I am an anomaly in my family and no one has been able to explain why to me."

Her brown eyes caught Marik's blue ones, and held the gaze unwaveringly.  "Does that make sense?"
Marik Aeris
Player, 341 posts
Fri 1 Jan 2021
at 18:34
  • msg #219

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Marik shrugs slightly, "I am continually amazed with the kind of information Darius is able to accumulate. If I had to guess, he overheard someone talking about something they heard you did on a recent adventure. Darius is also an arcanist, having attended a magical academy himself, so he would recognize certain clues that others might miss."

As she continued, he set his glass down and pulled his chair slightly closer to the table, offering her his full attention, "I understand completely. My gifts first manifested when I was 15 years old, and I had no idea what was going on. Honestly, pretty much everything I know I learned through trial and error, so I figured if there was anything I could do to help, or just explain things, then I should."
Rana Nervetti
player, 76 posts
Tavern wench? Perhaps not
Current AC = 16
Fri 1 Jan 2021
at 21:16
  • msg #220

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Rana relaxed a bit as she and Marik were talking.  She didn't really talk about her gift with people, especially someone that she just met; however, it felt like maybe she needed to talk about it so that she could progress and learn to direct her ability, rather than letting it lead her.

"I don't even know what questions to ask, Marik. My parents couldn't offer much in the way of advice because, as I like to say, we are a family with a distinctively average lineage." Her eyes held a spark of amusement as she spoke, a sign that she was becoming slightly more comfortable with the idea of talking about magic.

"I know that there are people, like Darius I suppose, who actually study magic or arcane arts, but for people like us it seems a bit hit or miss when it comes to learning spells.  I mean, I've heard of spell books that others can use, but that doesn't make any sense to me at all."
~Berta Roth
NPC p, 83 posts
Human Female Dragonfriend
Let's do it my way
Sat 2 Jan 2021
at 04:32
  • msg #221

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Loitering by the bar within earshot of Marik and Rana's conversation, even as she scans the Dragon with narrowed eyes for any sign of trouble to pounce upon, Berta permits herself a small smile, raising a brow at Gedd, leaning over to whisper in her younger brother's ear. 

"I'll take the stew over when it's ready," she winks at him.
~Gedd
NPC p, 31 posts
Gedd Roth
Half-orc archer
Sat 2 Jan 2021
at 14:23
  • msg #222

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Gedd chuckled at whatever Berta had said, and whispered something back to her.
Marik Aeris
Player, 343 posts
Sun 3 Jan 2021
at 16:14
  • msg #223

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Marik nods as he listens to Rana, "Well, the fact that you have these gifts tells me that your lineage is not quite as average as you believe." He takes another sip from his wine. "As you said, wizards learn their magic through years of study and intense practice; thank the gods that doesn't apply to us, I was never a good student," he says with a self-deprecating smile. "No, for us, magic literally courses through our veins. In my case," he starts and then leans in a little closer and whispers, "my bloodline has a history with a djinni some generations past, which is why much of my magic is focused around lightning and the air."

He leans back and raises his voice back to a normal volume, "The magic just comes naturally to us. Which of course is easier, but it also means that we can't choose our arcane arts the way a wizard can. We are sort of stuck with what we get. What about you? Have you noticed any particular peculiarities with you magic? Perhaps a proclivity to a certain kind of magic, or perhaps physical quirks? Once you understand your bloodline, it becomes easier to understand the rest."
Rana Nervetti
player, 78 posts
Tavern wench? Perhaps not
Current AC = 16
Sun 3 Jan 2021
at 16:33
  • msg #224

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Rana sat forward in her chair as Marik spoke, considering what he said, her eyes wide and attentive.  Her fingers tapped nervously at the table as she thought on his words.

"I asked my parents and they both have said that there has been nothing so out of the ordinary in either of their families.  At least nothing that anyone has ever spoken of,"  she shrugged slightly, "But I suppose there could be something that no one ever has talked about.  Lots of families keep secrets, or so I believe."

She took a sip of her wine as she pondered on whether or not there seemed to be a pattern to what she could do, or any hints as to where her powers came from.  "There was one thing that my mam ever said was odd about my birth and that was the night I was born the stars seemed to be flying in the skies.  I don't know if that means anything to you, but I never gave it much thought.  At the moment my spells just seem to be really useful ones, nothing overly keyed to one thing or another."

Rana let her eyes scan the room for a moment before adding quietly, "There have been dreams, or visions, on occasion where I see, or sense, a shooting star and can almost here a voice, but I don't really remember what is said."  She smiled shyly and shrugged her shoulders again.
Marik Aeris
Player, 346 posts
Sun 3 Jan 2021
at 16:49
  • msg #225

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Marik looks up to the ceiling for a moment, thinking about what Rana had just said. "Well, it is possible that the magic is not from a familial bloodline, but rather from some auspicious event that occurred. Perhaps a family member or distant relative was touched by something arcane, or perhaps it was this strange behavior of the stars at your birth. That, and these dreams you say you have are likely connected." He takes another sip of his wine, finishing the glass. "In fact, if I had to guess, your arcane gifts are likely connected to the stars in some way. I'm no expert, but I expect if we did some research we could help you understand this better."
Rana Nervetti
player, 79 posts
Tavern wench? Perhaps not
Current AC = 16
Sun 3 Jan 2021
at 17:05
  • msg #226

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Rana nodded briefly as Marik voices his thoughts.

"I would love to learn where and how I've come by my abilities, which is why I left home.  And I'd be happy for some help in trying to figure me out."  She paused and sipped at her wine, then changed the topic of conversation.  "Where are you from, Marik?  I am from Stone Climb in the Icerime Peaks.  Not all that far from Skywatch.  Have you heard of it?"
~Berta Roth
NPC p, 84 posts
Human Female Dragonfriend
Let's do it my way
Mon 4 Jan 2021
at 12:49
  • msg #227

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"You want another ?" Berta calls over to Marik, noting his empty wine glass.  "Same again, or ... ?"
Marik Aeris
Player, 347 posts
Mon 4 Jan 2021
at 15:33
  • msg #228

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"Another of the same," Marik said in response to Berta, acutely aware of how much attention she was giving their table. he then turned back to Rana, "I've heard of Stoneclimb, but never been there. And Skywatch? It's an ancient observatory, right? Supposedly built by giants or something? Sorry, I'm not much of a scholar," he adds with a small chuckle.

"As for me, I was born on the docks of New Stetven. My mother was...well let's just say that my mother worked the docks, or more specifically the sailors, and I was never quite sure who my father was. As I mentioned previously, I was 15 when my gifts first manifested; I was being bullied by some rich merchant kids, and when I yelled 'STOP' at them, they did and then started running away. I asked my mother, and she had some ideas as to where the gifts might come from, but we'll save that for a later date and somewhere," he glanced towards the bar where Berta was, "less public, if you don't mind."
Rana Nervetti
player, 83 posts
Tavern wench? Perhaps not
Current AC = 16
Mon 4 Jan 2021
at 16:11
  • msg #229

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Rana listened to Marik's history, her expression was one of interest although she was somewhat saddened that he had been bullied, but happy to know that he'd found a way out of it.  Her heart did a bit of a happy dance at the thought of another meeting with Marik, but she quashed any sentimental thoughts as she had only just met him and didn't know him at all.

Taking another sip of her wine, Rana let her eyes move from Marik to Berta and Ged and then back to her dinner companion.  As a lone female customer, new to the area, she was happy for the feeling that there was someone 'watching out for her', but she also understood that some conversations were better spoken in private.

She leaned forward in her chair as she began to speak about her favourite subject - Skywatch.  "I am not a scholar, by anyone's reckoning, but having lived so close to Skywatch, and my parents owning a tavern in Stone Climb, I heard all kinds of tales of the place and the mystery of it.  It fascinated me as a child and when my abilities began to manifest, it was like I couldn't help myself learning as much as I could about it."  Her eyes widened and seemed to sparkle as she continued with what she knew of the tale of Skywatch.

"You are right, there is an observatory in Skywatch that no one knows who built it.  The outpost of Skywatch first was settled by House Surtova so they could study the observatory.  Then several years later, Choral the Conqueror razed the outpost to the ground.  It had something to do with Aldori things, which I don't really understand."  She smiled and rolled her eyes at the thought of trying to figure out the Aldori.  "Later House Rogarvia, excavated and researched the observatory  and built the modern city of Skywatch atop the original settlement's burnt ruins.  Apparently all was right with Skywatch until every member of House Rogarvia disappeared.  At that point, Skywatch sealed itself off from all outsiders and since that day, no message sent to Skywatch has received a response and even powerful divination magic fails to penetrate the city's ancient walls."

Rana reached for her glass, sat back and sipped the wine.  She couldn't remember the last time she had actually had a discussion with someone.  Although, perhaps she was boring Marik which sometimes could happen when she got over-enthusiastic about something.

"I'm sorry Marik, I do tend to go on a bit about Skywatch.  It's a mystery and I dearly would love to solve it, but that isn't going to happen unless and until I can understand my gifts and get better at using them."  Resolved to stop speaking, she smiled at the man across the table from her as she took another sip of wine.
Marik Aeris
Player, 349 posts
Mon 4 Jan 2021
at 18:52
  • msg #230

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Marik leaned forward, mirroring Rana's movement, as she began to speak about Skywatch. His smile brightened as the sparkle in her eye made it clear this was a topic of extreme interest to her. He listened intently, tilting his head slightly as he considered her words, and what the connection between the closing of Skywatch and the disappearance of House Rogarvia might mean.

When she stopped, he smiled warmly and gently raised his hand in protest, "Please don't apologize. It is quite refreshing to be able to talk to someone so passionate about something so interesting. I hope you don't mind me saying, but the way your eyes light up when you speak about it draws me in and makes you even more beautiful. I must say, it makes me want to learn even more," he says with a lopsided grin. "I wonder if there is a connection between the circumstances of your birth and its proximity to Skywatch. Perhaps there is a reason for your passion beyond simple curiosity?"

He leans back, "I must say, it is a mystery I would very much enjoy helping you solve, if you're interested. But as you said, the first step is helping you understand your gift and where it came from."
Rana Nervetti
player, 85 posts
Tavern wench? Perhaps not
Current AC = 16
Mon 4 Jan 2021
at 19:13
  • msg #231

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Rana could feel her face redden at Marik's kind words, but a smile touched her lips, nonetheless.  She knew she was attractive, but it still made her uncomfortable when people commented on it.  Much like her magic, it was just something that was and she didn't give it much thought ... until someone commented on it.

"I suppose there could be a connection to Skywatch that I don't know about.  Skywatch is maybe two or three days' travel by horse to  Stoneclimb.  Whether its magic could, I don't know, seep that far as to have an affect is something I wouldn't even begin to be able to calculate."  Rana's smile widened as her brain seemed to be puzzling over this new potential puzzle.  "I am always happy to have someone to talk to about Skywatch, and other things," she added softly.
Marik Aeris
Player, 350 posts
Tue 5 Jan 2021
at 22:21
  • msg #232

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"Well I am at your disposal," Marik said with a warm smile, "and I truly enjoy your company. It's also nice to finally have someone to talk to that can understand what it's like to be a sorcerer. So how long have you been here in Midmarch? Have you had any grand adventures since you've been here?"
Rana Nervetti
player, 86 posts
Tavern wench? Perhaps not
Current AC = 16
Wed 6 Jan 2021
at 08:55
  • msg #233

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"I have only recently arrived in Midmarch with a couple of others who I had met in Stoneclimb.  One of them, Vova, runs around with a peacock and, well, is often drunk, so I'm sure you'll come across him at some point." She paused for a beat, "Probably in a ditch somewhere sleeping off his excesses.  The other, Khora, is a half-orc whom I believe lived further up the Icerime Peaks.  There have been no adventures as yet, grand or otherwise.  And, to be honest," Rana lowered her voice slightly, and shrugged, "I'm not convinced that I'm really cut out to be an adventurer, but, nothing ventured nothing gained I suppose."

Her eyes reconnected with Marik's, "And what of you?  How long have you been in Midmarch? And have you had any grand adventures?"
~Berta Roth
NPC p, 85 posts
Human Female Dragonfriend
Let's do it my way
Wed 6 Jan 2021
at 14:04
  • msg #234

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Berta looks over her shoulder, nodding at her younger brother as she points a finger towards Marik.  "Another of the same, please," she grins.

Lifting the glass with practiced ease, the warrior-woman brings it over to the table where Rana and Marik are deep in discussion, smiling at the handsome young man as she proffers his glass with due ceremony, placing it on the table as she scoops up the empty vessel.

"Food won't be long," she assures the equally attractive woman, "then I'll leave you both in peace."

Winking at the pair, Berta snaps her fingers, causing the glass in her hand to suddenly glow like a torch.  Nodding in satisfaction she heads back to the bar to pass it over to Gedd.
~Gedd
NPC p, 32 posts
Gedd Roth
Half-orc archer
Wed 6 Jan 2021
at 16:13
  • msg #235

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Gedd holds up the glowing glass that Berta handed him, looks closely at it then carries the empty glass back to the table. With due ceremony he recites a mystic phrase then gently taps the glowing glass against Marik's full wineglass, instantly causing that wineglass to glow as well. The ripples on the surface of the wine reflect ripples of light onto the ceiling above the table.

Gedd stares appreciatively at the light display for a moment then looks over at a nearby beam where a black raven is perched in the shadows.

"Do you like that too, duNoir?" he asks the raven.

The raven launches itself off the beam and glides down to land on the table, where it taps the wineglass with its beak, setting off another series of ripples in the wine.

"Very pretty!" the raven agrees. Then with a quick flap of its wings it flies up to land on Gedd's shoulder.
_ Wyn Roth
NPC, 33 posts
Co-Owner: Dragons Den
in Tusk
Wed 6 Jan 2021
at 16:43
  • msg #236

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"Oh come now.  That is not at all fair," Win says, as he walks past the table and sees his siblings displays, "You have left the lady at a disadvantage."  Reaching out he adjusts Rana glass slightly, and that too starts to glow brightly.  "That's better." he says with a knowing look at his siblings, before he continues on his way to the stage area and starts to adjust the chairs.
Rana Nervetti
player, 87 posts
Tavern wench? Perhaps not
Current AC = 16
Wed 6 Jan 2021
at 17:06
  • msg #237

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Rana smiled and nodded at Berta, her eyes widening slightly as the other woman caused the glass to glow. She glanced at Marik, an eyebrow raised in query.  However, before she could say anything the large bartender approached with the still glowing glass and made Marik's glass glow as well and then the bird landed on their table and spoke!  Her eyes widened and her jaw drop opened slightly but then her eyes moved to catch Ged's gaze and then the newcomer's gaze as well.

"It certainly adds to the ambience."  She said with a smile and a note of appreciation.  "Thank you."
This message was last edited by the player at 17:17, Wed 06 Jan 2021.
_ Winnie Roth
NPC, 36 posts
Co-Owner: Dragons Den
in Tusk
Wed 6 Jan 2021
at 17:27
  • msg #238

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Winnie scowls and grabs two fresh glasses an a bottle of their best wine.  "Sometimes they're like children." She says placing the bottle and glasses on the table.  "Your dinner and drinks are on the house." She says collecting up the glowing glasses and scowling at the siblings once more.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:40, Wed 06 Jan 2021.
Marik Aeris
Player, 353 posts
Wed 6 Jan 2021
at 18:15
  • msg #239

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Marik smiled, enjoying the little show and nodded in response to Rana's comment. When Winnie came to the table he greeted her with a soft smile, "It's not a problem, who knew we'd get dinner and a show? But in any case, thank you."

As she walks off, he takes the bottle of wine and fills one of the glasses and hands it to Rana, and then fills the other for himself. He then takes a sip, savoring the taste for a moment before putting his glass back down on the table.

"Now, where were we?" He asks with a playful smile. "Ah, yes. How long have I been here? Wow, well a few years now, I arrived shortly after Tusk had been taken from a bandit lord and began its slow march to this wonderful city we now have. As for adventures, I've seen my share," he says with a playful smirk. He takes another sip of wine and continues, "I was a part of the expedition that rid the kobolds of Sootscale of their enemies, a settlement of mites, and negotiated peace with them; this is why I now own exclusive trading rights with Sootscale in perpetuity. I've also traveled East to the Tors of Levenies, the large mountain range to the East. Let's see, we fought a roc, a family of cyclops, and I'm sure some other creatures I can't remember."

He paused to take a breath, and another sip of wine. "And most recently we've traveled out to Varnhold, and even met with a tribe of centaurs. It's all quite exciting, and I'm certain you will prove up to the challenge. Besides, I have found for people like us, it's adventure and conflict that help us grow and better understand our gifts. Unlike wizards, no amount of poring over dusty books will increase our abilities."
Rana Nervetti
player, 89 posts
Tavern wench? Perhaps not
Current AC = 16
Wed 6 Jan 2021
at 19:31
  • msg #240

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Rana wore a quizzical look on her face as the glowing glasses were quickly replaced, whatever was going on with the tavern's owners, it was both amusing and something that was unexpected.
After their glasses were replaced and Marik filled her new glass with more wine, she sat forward, her elbows on the table and attentive to what he was saying.

When Marik finished talking, she sat up, reached for her glass, taking a sip of the wine as she considered her words.  "I'm not sure I have your confidence in my ability, yet, but hopefully that will grow in time.  It sounds like you have done well with your adventures and have seen things that I can only imagine - centaur, a roc and kobolds.  But, peace with Kobolds?  You trust them?  I thought they were evil creatures?  And what kinds of things do kobolds have to trade?"
Marik Aeris
Player, 355 posts
Wed 6 Jan 2021
at 21:30
  • msg #241

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Marik shrugged, "Kobolds are evil by nature, but honestly these kobolds in particular, the Sootscales, really just want to be left alone. When we first traveled to their home as it were, I had noticed an old sign for a silver mine. In turns out the kobolds had been living in a silver mine for quite some time and nobody was aware. With the help of Pekwik, a kobold I befriended and who now is in my employ, and my chancellor Alanna, we helped the kobolds ensure the mine was safe and then taught them how to mine the silver. In return, I serve as an emissary if you will between them and us 'big folk', and get the benefits of exclusive trade with them."

He takes another sip of his wine and leans back in his chair, "As for confidence, that will come as you better understand, and feel more comfortable with, your gifts. Which is something we can work on together, if you wish. As for my success, fortune favors the bold as they say. I never intended to claim all of the mineral resources in Midmarch, but after setting up the deal with the Sootscales, it just seemed to make sense. You just have to be open to opportunities as they present themselves and use your best judgement."
Rana Nervetti
player, 90 posts
Tavern wench? Perhaps not
Current AC = 16
Wed 6 Jan 2021
at 21:55
  • msg #242

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Rana nodded as Marik expanded on his relationship with the kobolds.  "You are right, Marik.  I suppose kobolds can vary as much as humans, or elves, or dwarves or anyone else.  I should try to remember that.  And I will also try to remember to be open to opportunities if and when they present themselves, as well as, I suppose, recognising that there might be an opportunity where I wouldn't expect to find one."

Whether it was the warmth in the room or the fact that Rana had been drinking with no food in her stomach since lunchtime, she could feel a flush of colour in her cheeks.  "I think I would like to spend more time with you, trying to understand my gifts," she added softly.
Marik Aeris
Player, 357 posts
Wed 6 Jan 2021
at 23:16
  • msg #243

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Marik smiles and raises his glass in a toast, "That's good to hear, I would like to spend more time with you as well, helping you understand your gifts...or just enjoying your company," he added with a wink as he took a sip from his glass.

He placed his glass back on the table and leaned forward slightly, "So now that you've finally made it to the famed City of Tusk," he says with a big grin, "What are your plans? Do you have any ambitions here? Perhaps open an establishment such as this, or perhaps a library? Or travel across Midmarch seeing its wonders and facing down perilous threats," he finishes with a grin.
~Berta Roth
NPC p, 87 posts
Human Female Dragonfriend
Let's do it my way
Thu 7 Jan 2021
at 05:00
  • msg #244

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

The Dragon's bouncer pulls a 'oops' face as Winnie turns away, but that quickly descends into a broad grin at both of her brothers.  "Might be best if we let Winne serve them," she suggests, "I'll go find someone else to annoy !"

So saying, and with a nod and a warm smile to Marik and Rana, Berta swaggers off on her rounds, spotting a card game at a far table that might benefit from her oversight and helpful observations.
Rana Nervetti
player, 91 posts
Tavern wench? Perhaps not
Current AC = 16
Thu 7 Jan 2021
at 07:31
  • msg #245

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Rana felt herself finally relaxing and she smiled at Marik's comment.  She had to admit to herself that she was enjoying Marik's company, even if it was unexpected company.

"I have no plans or ambitions, other than to become the best at what I do.  Owning and running a tavern like this is a lot of hard work and not something I would ever consider doing on my own." Rana paused as she considered Marik's other suggestions.  "A library?  Now that is an interesting thought, especially if I could find books related to Skywatch and magic, however, I don't think I'm ready to settle down that much yet, as I've only just left home to explore the world."

She chuckled to herself then smiled at Marik.  "As far as facing perilous threats, I think I shall start small with minor inconveniences."

As Berta walked by their table, Rana nodded and smiled at the other woman.  It had been slightly odd to see magic used so openly, but, in a way, it was refreshing to know that maybe she, herself, could be slightly less worried about what people would say if they saw her using her own magic.
This message was last updated by the player at 09:22, Thu 07 Jan 2021.
Marik Aeris
Player, 361 posts
Thu 7 Jan 2021
at 23:05
  • msg #246

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Marik nods, "Oh yes, running a place like this is definitely hard work and not for the faint of heart. I know I wouldn't want to do it. But if you do decide at some point that you'd like to open a library or something else, let me know. I am the Laird of New Dawn, so I can make sure you get some prime real estate," he says with a smile as he reaches for his glass and takes another sip of wine.

"But I would say that for now, not having a plan is a very sound plan," he says with a cheeky grin. "And that was exactly my plan when I first arrived. That way you're open for any opportunity that presents itself, no matter how unexpected it might be."
Rana Nervetti
player, 92 posts
Tavern wench? Perhaps not
Current AC = 16
Fri 8 Jan 2021
at 08:14
  • msg #247

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Rana kept eye contact with Marik as he talked about New Dawn and his thoughts about her plans.

"New Dawn is a lovely name for a town, it conjures up a really pleasant image.  I would love to visit sometime and, if I think of a business venture that would suit me, your offer is very kind." Again the colour rose slightly in her face as she wasn't quite certain what Marik's intentions were likely to mean, if anything.  However, she was enjoying his company so, at the moment, that was the important thing; especially as she did not have any family or friends near-to-hand.  A friend in this new land would be a boon.

"I've never been known for planning too far in advance, if at all," she admitted with a chuckle.  "I tend to see where the wind takes me, as my mam is fond of saying."

Rana took another sip of her wine as she looked to see if her stew might be arriving any time soon as she was now starting to feel a bit more hungry than when she'd arrived.  "So, Marik, I presume you live in New Dawn.  I am still unsure of where things are in Midmarch and was wondering how far away New Dawn is from Tusk."
Marik Aeris
Player, 362 posts
Fri 8 Jan 2021
at 14:21
  • msg #248

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"Thank you," he said as the complimented the name New Dawn. He'd spent a fairly significant amount of time considering an appropriate name for his capital as it were, and he was happy at least someone appreciated it. "And you are welcome to visit any time. We have a nice Road House there, and I am in the process of building a Fortified Villa where you would be more than welcome...in one of the guest rooms of course," he adds with a slight reddening of his cheeks.

He takes a sip of wine in order to calm his thoughts as he considered her visiting him there, and then continued, "But no, I don't currently live there. I maintain a townhouse here in Tusk where I spend most of my time when I'm not adventuring. I've found that much of what happens in Midmarch is discussed and decided upon here in Tusk so it behooves me to be here. With that being said, once the Villa is complete, I will likely be spending more of my time there. But regardless, by horse it takes somewhere between 8-10 hours to make the trip, so it's not unbearable."
~Gedd
NPC p, 33 posts
Gedd Roth
Half-orc archer
Fri 8 Jan 2021
at 15:37
  • msg #249

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Gedd spotted movement at the doorway from the kitchen, so he headed over to give the serving girl a hand with the plates.

He lingered briefly after the meal was served.

"I hope we didn't upset you at all with that little light show, earlier," he said, eventually. "It's just that we overheard the comment earlier about you two being the only sorcerers in the city. You may be the strongest, particularly Laird Marik, but you are not alone. My brother and sister and I have different skills but I have inherited enough of our mother's gift to call myself a sorcerer too, although my primary skills and training are as a ranger. duNoir is my familiar. If the Roth family can help you with anything in future, you know where to find us. Now, I will let you enjoy your stew while it is still hot."

With that he withdraws and heads back to the bar.
Rana Nervetti
player, 93 posts
Tavern wench? Perhaps not
Current AC = 16
Fri 8 Jan 2021
at 16:03
  • msg #250

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Rana smiled at Gedd as he arrived with her dinner.  "Not bothered at all by the 'light show', Gedd.  It was actually refreshing to see that the use of magic isn't hidden away or something that people are wary of showing.  I'm so new to Tusk that I wouldn't know if everyone here had magic abilities or no one did - it's always good to know that you're not alone with your talents.  Thank you and your family for making me feel welcome.  This place reminds me much of my home."

She waited until Ged had returned to the bar and then Rana returned her attention to Marik.  She smiled and tipped her head at his invitation.  "I think it would be nice to visit New Dawn, and you, at some point when our schedules allow for the time.  I'm not quite sure what I've signed up to, apparently I'm now some interim officer of the Brevic knights, but in fairness a lot of the detail went over my head and seemed quite a lot more formal than things that I've heard about or been around at home."  She coloured slightly at the admission because she didn't want to appear either stupid or too naive.

"It certainly sounds like you have found a place to make a home and a name for yourself, Marik.  I applaud your stick-to-itness.  I have always found it difficult to maintain focus on anything for long periods of time.  But, my da said that when I find what it is I'm supposed to be doing, I'll know it and will stick with it.  Maybe I will find that here in Midmarch or Tusk, or maybe somewhere else in this relatively new land."

She raised her glass to her companion in a silent toast. "Eight to ten hours isn't too bad, depending on the weather, of course.  A nice day out with time for a picnic at lunch." Rana smiled and winked at Marik, surprising herself at her forwardness.  "Definitely must be the wine,' she thought with irony.

She took a spoonful of the stew, blowing gently on it to cool it down slightly before putting it in her mouth.  Rana closed her eyes and a smile adorned her lips as she enjoyed the taste of the stew, and the memories it evoked.  For a moment, she imagined her mam coming out from the kitchen with an apron wrapped around her waist and her hair slightly mussed, it tasted so close to home.  Opening her eyes, she smiled at Marik, "Thank you for the recommendation, this is absolutely perfect!"
Marik Aeris
Player, 365 posts
Fri 8 Jan 2021
at 19:08
  • msg #251

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Marik nods to Gedd, "I stand corrected. I must admit, I have always been a little jealous of those able to form bonds with a familiar. Thank you for the offer, and the stew," he said with a warm smile.

He then turned his attention to Rana, "Ah yes, the Brevic Knights. I am an officer myself, as are most of the adventurers, lords, and ladies here in Tusk, and Midmarch more generally. For the most part it's just a means to ensure you that your actions within Midmarch are sanctioned by Lord leMaistre and that he can count on your loyalty when it becomes necessary. I wouldn't consider it too much of a burden as long as you are willing to swear the oath to him."

As she mentioned his accomplishments, he thought for a second; that hadn't exactly been his goal when his first set off for Midmarch, but he supposed it was true. "You, know, I suppose I have begun to make a home for myself out here, as surprising as that seems to me. I had originally considered my adventures in Midmarch to simply be a means to an end, but I suppose they have proven to be an end to themselves."

As she raised her glass, he did so as well, "Yes, it's not a long trip, and I think a picnic along the way would be a wonderful idea. I can't imagine any better company to do so with," he added with a smile.

"Yes, the stew here is quite good," he said as he began to dig in himself.
Rana Nervetti
player, 94 posts
Tavern wench? Perhaps not
Current AC = 16
Fri 8 Jan 2021
at 19:51
  • msg #252

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Rana spent a few quiet and comfortable minutes concentrating on her meal, alternating between spoonsful of stew with dunking fresh bread in the bowl until it was full of the tasty gravy.  She paused to take another sip of her wine and then smiled at Marik.

"If I haven't yet said it, or if I forget to say it before the end of the evening, I just want to thank you for your company.  I am thoroughly enjoying myself."

She held his gaze for a few moments longer, then returned her attention to her dinner.
Marik Aeris
Player, 366 posts
Fri 8 Jan 2021
at 19:59
  • msg #253

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"As am I," Marik said with a smile between bites.

When they'd both finished their dinner and had another glass of wine, he leaned forward slightly in his chair, "Well, I guess I have no other excuses to keep you here any longer," he says with a lopsided smile. "May I walk you home at least?"
Rana Nervetti
player, 95 posts
Tavern wench? Perhaps not
Current AC = 16
Fri 8 Jan 2021
at 20:40
  • msg #254

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Rana took the last bit of her bread and sopped up the last of the stew's gravy, then popped it in her mouth, absently licking a stray bit of the gravy from her thumb.  She was feeling quite content and a small frown briefly crossed her lips when Marik suggested that it was time to call it an evening.  However, the frown disappeared quickly to be replaced with a smile.

"For a moment, I forgot that I wasn't home.  I would be happy for you to accompany me  home, although, sadly, home is just the local barracks at the moment." She added the last with a chuckle.  "In fact, if you walk me back, then I won't have to ask for directions.  Things look different at night and I'm not positive that I could find the most direct route back this evening."
Marik Aeris
Player, 367 posts
Fri 8 Jan 2021
at 21:04
  • msg #255

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"Well, we couldn't have you getting lost," he says with a smile as he stands and offers her his hand. "It's not far, but if you don't know where you're going, it can be a bit confusing."
Rana Nervetti
player, 96 posts
Tavern wench? Perhaps not
Current AC = 16
Fri 8 Jan 2021
at 21:20
  • msg #256

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Rana picked up her cloak, draping it over her shoulders and closing the clasp, then looked around the room, nodding and smiling at Berta and waving a cheery 'good-bye' to Gedd at the bar.  She placed her hand in Marik's, and let him lead the way out of the tavern.  She paused just outside and looked around, trying to get her bearings, before turning with a sheepish grin to Marik.

"I'm afraid I told a slight fib, Marik.  I could probably find my way back to the barracks as I'm staying at the ones in the Keep," she pointed to the structure that stood above the rest of the town.  "Sorry."
~Berta Roth
NPC p, 89 posts
Human Female Dragonfriend
Let's do it my way
Sat 9 Jan 2021
at 13:37
  • msg #257

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

True to her word, Berta had been keeping an eye on the pair and catches Rana's fare-ye-well, pausing in her rounds to raise her hand to wave goodbye.

"Come again !" she calls out, above the clink and clatter of glasses and buzz of conversation, grining broadly as the pair leave hand in hand.
DM
GM, 5512 posts
Fri 9 Dec 2022
at 15:04
  • msg #258

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

* New Day *
Rana Nervetti
player, 318 posts
A long way from home...
...looking for something
Sun 11 Dec 2022
at 22:14
  • msg #259

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Shopping wasn't really a favourite pastime of hers, rather, Rana considered it a 'necessary evil'.  However, she had been determined to show Ush the best parts of Tusk and, invariably, they ended up in the Merchant District at just about the right time in the afternoon for a light meal.  The young sorceress had decided, after her first visit to Tusk, that the Dragon's Den was a home-away-from-home.  Both of the women carried a couple of packages wrapped in brown paper and secured with twine as Rana carefully opened the door to the tavern.

Rana let her eyes adjust to the slightly muted lighting in the tavern as she paused in the doorway and glanced around the room.  She smiled as entered, urging the half-orc young woman to follow her.

"I don't know about you, Ush, but I can certainly do with a sitdown and a bite of something to eat."  She spoke softly to other female who seemed less than comfortable.  Rana gestured to an empty table in the corner "That looks like a perfect place to sit for a bit and give our arms a rest from carrying these things.  I'm really not certain how we ended up with quite so much," she added with a chuckle.

At the table, she set the bundles down on the floor to one side of a chair and Ush did the same.  The young half-orc female took the seat in the corner so that she had an uninterrupted view of the room.

"I see Gabriel is teaching you well," Rana commented softly, before scanning the room for other patrons, as well as to see if any of the Roths were in attendance.

"I'll go order our drinks and see if we can get some bread and cheese which should see us through until supper."  Matching actions to words, Rana rose and approached the bar.  She smiled as she remembered her first time in the Dragon's Den.
~Gedd
NPC p, 36 posts
Gedd Roth
Half-orc archer
Mon 12 Dec 2022
at 13:38
  • msg #260

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Gedd was serving behind the bar when the two young women entered. Perhaps it was just politeness that kept his tongue still as they made themselves comfortable at a table. Perhaps not.

Gedd raised his hand in greeting as the human lass approached the bar. He remembered her from her previous visit.

"A good afternoon, m'lady ... Rana? Gedd Roth, at your service. What can I get for you and your friend?" he asked. He glanced across the room to where the other young woman sat warily watching everyone in the room. That brought a smile to his lips that showed in his eyes as well.
~Berta Roth
NPC p, 95 posts
Human Female Dragonfriend
Let's do it my way
Tue 13 Dec 2022
at 05:56
  • msg #261

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Berta is on the other side of the common room, doing her rounds, looking for trouble (though strangely there's precious little to be found whenever she's prowling around seeking it out), but glances up, as is her habit, as the young sorceress and her charge enter the Dragon, acknowledging Rana with a broad grin and a nod of her head, determining that the chosen path she treads will lead her over to their table shortly ... unless any other patron dares disturb her progress and needs be dealt with.
Rana Nervetti
player, 319 posts
A long way from home...
...looking for something
Tue 13 Dec 2022
at 08:17
  • msg #262

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Rana felt herself relax slightly as she spied the man tending bar.

"Thank you, Gedd, for remembering my name.  It has been some time since I've managed to stop in to my favourite place in all of Tusk.  As on my first visit, you have made me feel very much at home."  Her words were not meant as flattery, rather spoken from the heart.  "If Ush and I could have a platter of cheese and bread with wine that would be appreciated.  I fear that shopping is not on either of our lists of most fun things to do.  However," she glanced at the array of packages stacked on the floor at their table, "I suppose it could be argued that we have given it a good go."

A soft chuckle escaped her lips, and her eyes twinkled as she remembered the day.  "This is Ush's first visit to Tusk, Gedd.  Her family live in Gurdinford, which is about a good day's ride along the river from the Tuskwater.  On my first visit to Gurdinford, she showed a keen interest in training and honing her skills. I offered her the opportunity to come to New Dawn with me and train with Gabriel at his school for all things 'woodsy' and the like.  She liked the sound of the location, so she accepted.  We are heading back to check out some caves I'd seen previously close to Gurdinford, and thought it would be a good opportunity for Ush to visit her family."

Rana paused for breath then chuckled lightly again.  "Enough of me, though.  How are you and the rest of your family?"
~Gedd
NPC p, 37 posts
Gedd Roth
Half-orc archer
Tue 13 Dec 2022
at 14:31
  • msg #263

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Gedd grinned as Rana pointed out the evidence of their shopping trip.

"Shopping's not my idea of fun either," he chuckled. "Excuse me for a moment."

He stepped back to the kitchen door briefly to pass on the order for a cheese platter and fresh bread, then was quickly back behind the bar.

"The four of us are all doing well. Thanks for asking. Our business ventures are all prospering, so we have nothing to complain about there. I must say, though, I envy Ush the chance to learn from this Gabriel fellow. I don't know him but 'all things woodsy' sounds like something I'd enjoy, too, if I had the time for it these days. I always felt more at home in a forest than in a city. So, is Ush training towards a particular profession?" he asked, then quickly added, "I almost forgot to ask, what would you like to drink?"
Rana Nervetti
player, 320 posts
A long way from home...
...looking for something
Tue 13 Dec 2022
at 22:48
  • msg #264

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Rana watched Gedd working behind the bar and the memories it brought back of growing up working in her parents' inn made her smile fondly.

"I don't know if Ush has decided on a specific profession yet, although I know she has been speaking to Gabriel about different opportunities.  She has mentioned to me her interest in becoming a warden, a pathfinder or a scout.  I'm certain she'll figure it out sooner or later, I can't see that there's any need for her to rush into it."  Rana chuckled softly, then looked across to the young woman and smiled. "It was wine to drink, if you please, Gedd.  I'll leave the choice to you as you will know your wines better than me and can recommend one to complement the cheeses."

She paused for a moment in thought before continuing.  "It's a shame you can't get out to the forests very often.  There definitely are plenty near enough to New Dawn for Gabriel to train his charges and I'm sure he'd be happy to have you join them for some of their forays into the wilds, as he calls them.  Gabriel and his wife Alanna are with us in Tusk.  I can suggest that he stops in for a chat, if you'd like?  New Dawn, whilst it will never be as big as Tusk, does have some fine things to offer visitors and may be some place you and your family might want to consider expanding to in the future."
~Gedd
NPC p, 38 posts
Gedd Roth
Half-orc archer
Wed 14 Dec 2022
at 15:03
  • msg #265

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Gedd reaches under the bar and brings out two glasses and a bottle of wine.

"Wyn and Berta would hardly forgive me if I didn't suggest you try the Grapes of Roth. On the house, of course. We have our own winery and vineyard up at Outpost and we are all rather proud of the quality of the wine we have been able to produce.

"Perhaps I might be able to detour across to New dawn next time I travel up to Outpost. I would enjoy seeing what you have to offer up there now. If Gabriel would like to pay us a visit, I would welcome the chance to meet him. It would be interesting to see what plans he has for training young folk like Ush. I spent a lot of my youth among gardeners, woodsmen, poachers and even a ranger or two. In the end it was a ranger that became my main tutor and you might say I followed in his footsteps in more ways than one. I look forward to seeing what path Ush decides to follow."

Rana Nervetti
player, 321 posts
A long way from home...
...looking for something
Fri 16 Dec 2022
at 23:24
  • msg #266

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Rana started to insist on paying for the wine, but managed to stop herself.  She remembered her mam and pa doing similar things in order to 'spread the word' regarding the product they were trying to promote. Rana had no doubt that the Roth's sometimes used a similar tactic to promote their own items.

"Thank you, Gedd.  I'm certain it will be very nice and complement the cheeses.  I'm a fan already of the name."  She smiled in thanks at Gedd.  "You would be welcome at New Dawn any time.  Gabriel and Alanna are also in the process of training horses for use by the troops of Midmarch, and that might also interest you."

She glanced around the room, saw Berta, and smiled at the other woman.  "I see Berta is here as well.  I'm certain I'll catch up with her in a bit, but I think it best I get back to our table.  I hate leaving Ush on her own, even though I know she can take care of herself."

Rana picked up the bottle of wine in her right hand, then skillfully picked up the two glasses in her left, then returned to her table.  She went in to 'bar staff' mode as she got to the table, setting the glasses down carefully before filling each one halfway with wine.  As she sat down to the right of Ush, Rana moved the glasses to within reach of the two of them, and placed the bottle close enough that it wouldn't be much of a stretch for her to top their glasses up.

Rana began chatting with Ush, every so often pointing to various people or things of interest in the Dragon's Den.
~Ush Hunter
NPCe, 1 post
Sat 17 Dec 2022
at 00:01
  • msg #267

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

The city was nothing like what Ush was used to.  Compared to where she had grown up in Gurdingford and then training with Gabriel and the other apprentices on the outskirts of New Dawn, Tusk was enormous.  There were a plethora of people in the city and they brought with them all the assorted aromas and sounds that a large group of people generate.  Even though their group had only been in Tusk for a day, the young woman was already itching to move on and out into the open area and continue their journey to Gurdingford.  However, Gabriel had been teaching her, and the other apprentices, how to utilise all their senses in the country and on their ride from New Dawn he reviewed with her how she could use those same skills in a city.

One of the things they had discussed was the benefit of having your back to a wall.  'If there's a wall at your back, you only have to protect three sides, rather than four.  And that one less side just might save your life someday.'  Not that Ush thought that Rana would take her to a place where she might have to put her fighting skills into use, but the more the young woman practiced what she was being taught, the more natural it would become.

Whilst Rana had been up at the bar, Ush had let her eyes scan the other customers in the Dragon's Den. She didn't know any of them, but she tried to determine each of his or her strength's based solely on their looks and how they were sitting.  She noticed one or two people who she thought were probably merchants as their cloaks were clean, obviously well-cared for and their hands appeared, at least from a distance, to not have been subjected to hard labour at least not recently.  There were a few of the City's guards, or watch, Ush wasn't positive what they called them in Tusk, sitting at a table across the room.  Each of the men, and she thought they were all men although one was a bit more slight than the others so it could be a woman, had a tankard in front of them as well as bowls of some type of stew that they appeared to be enjoying.  Surprisingly, Ush was enjoying watching the others in the room.  Whether she was right about any of their professions she couldn't say and she wasn't about to approach them and ask!  Gabriel had promised that they would have some 'practical' exercises soon, but Ush was content to practice on her own for the moment.

Once Rana returned to the table with the glasses and wine, Ush took a tentative sip from the proferred glass then smiled at Rana.

"Tastes nice, Rana.  Better than what we brewed in Gurdingford, but makes me think of home." She then fell into a companionable conversation with the sorceress.
~Berta Roth
NPC p, 96 posts
Human Female Dragonfriend
Let's do it my way
Sat 17 Dec 2022
at 04:29
  • msg #268

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

The same measured tread that once took her round her city beat e'erlong brings Berta to the table where Rana and Ush sit.

"Good morrow,"
the Dragon's resident bouncer (at least this evening when it's Gedd's turn to manage the bar) proffers to the Sorceress, in her best guard's voice, her greeting bookended by a broad grin, and a smile and a nod to her Half-Orc companion.

"Keeping busy ?" the warrior-woman eyes the plethora of shopping-bags at their feet, brow raised with the question.

"Good drop," Berta adds, equally succinctly and close on her last remark, as she spies the bottle of wine on the bar. "I favour the Poacher's myself, but then I'm a woman of simple tastes."  She casts her gaze around the common room at that, daring anyone to challenge it.  "Or so I'm told."  By Wyn.  Repeatedly.
Rana Nervetti
player, 323 posts
A long way from home...
...looking for something
Sun 18 Dec 2022
at 07:52
  • msg #269

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Rana smiled at the Berta when she approached their table and made to stand up, but instead gestured to the seat across from her.

"Hi Berta.  Care to join us?"  She looked at the wine on the table, then back to the Roth sister.  "I think it's very nice.  I must remember to pick up a few bottles to take home with me before we leave Tusk." Taking the other woman's tastes into consideration, she added, "I'll have to sample the Poachers the next time I'm here."

She gestured at Ush.  "Berta, this is Ush.  She is from Gurdingford, but has been studying at Gabriel's training school outside New Dawn for a little while now.  We're heading out towards Gurdingford in a day or two, so Ush thought it would be good to visit her family.  As for me, I feel like I have been keeping very busy, but don't ask me with what, because I'd be hard pushed to say.  Everything seems a bit of a blur since I came to Midmarch, if I'm honest."

"Just picking up a few new clothes.  I suppose I could have purchased them in New Dawn, but I remembered a shop here in Tusk that had the kind of outfits I like for everyday wear."  Rana glanced at the packages on the floor and shrugged.  "Perhaps I went a bit overboard."
~Ush Hunter
NPCe, 2 posts
Sun 18 Dec 2022
at 08:00
  • msg #270

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Ush nodded in greeting at the other woman, letting Rana lead the conversation while she tried to surreptitiously gauge Berta's strengths.  She could see the ease which Berta carried herself and was hopeful that, one day, she would have the ability to appear as confident.  Ush knew that her confidence had grown since starting her training with Gabriel, so she was hopeful.
~Berta Roth
NPC p, 101 posts
Human Female Dragonfriend
Let's do it my way
Sun 18 Dec 2022
at 11:11
  • msg #271

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

The warrior woman eyes the chair and bottle with some regret. "I'd like nothing better ... but I'm afraid I'm working.  Someone has to keep an eye on these reprobates," she looks around the common room proprietorially.

"Though I must say they're all being very well behaved today. It's funny, I rarely seem to have any problems ... or at least never a second time," she winks at Ush.  "It's good to have a reputation."

"Pleased to meet you," Berta addresses the Half-Orc warmly, following Rana's introduction, adding [Language unknown: "Erliel m ni fi,"] and politely watching Ush for signs of understanding, ready to provide the translation if needed.

"Hopefully your teachers are a bit nicer than mine were !" she grins broadly, patting the pommels of the twin blades that sit comfortably on her hips.

"What's coin for if not to enjoy ?" Berta suggests, smiling.
Rana Nervetti
player, 324 posts
A long way from home...
...looking for something
Sun 18 Dec 2022
at 20:28
  • msg #272

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Rana nodded in understanding at Berta's refusal to join them. "Another time, then, when you're not working."

She took a sip of her wine, before continuing. "I had suggested to Gedd that you might want to visit us in New Dawn.  It continues to expand, although it will never become the metropolitan area that Tusk is growing into.  There is currently only one hotel and one roadhouse, so another tavern might be needed soon.  If that would be something you and your brothers would be intersted in, I'm certain Marik would love to speak with you about future development opportunities."  Rana had inadvertently forgotten Marik's title, and wasn't aware that she'd forgotten it.
~Ush Hunter
NPCe, 3 posts
Sun 18 Dec 2022
at 20:37
  • msg #273

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Ush's eyes widened at the words of welcome from Berta, but then a tentative smile touched her lips.

[Language unknown: "Wasughous was ate rerom ofecwa, Ncnass, ei antre ovenotsom k ith po laest romil.  Lo amestroul'wertha to din Ugh oucamost ta een fi."]

A quick glance at Rana made Ush realise that the sorceress didn't understand what was said, so she took a moment to explain.  "Rana, Berta just welcomed me here in orcish."  She then answered Bera's query.  "Gabriel is firm, but fair, although it's more the other trainees who can be cruel."

Ush noticed Rana's eyes widen in shock at her words and the half-orc girl wished she could take them back.  She looked at Rana and shook her head slowly.  "It's better now.  They just took some time getting used to me, is all.  Nothing to be worrying about."
~Berta Roth
NPC p, 102 posts
Human Female Dragonfriend
Let's do it my way
Mon 19 Dec 2022
at 05:13
  • msg #274

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"That'd be nice," Berta thanks the sorceress for her invitation.  That she always seems to be working doesn't occur to her - truth be told, the warrior-woman revels in her duties at the Dragon, finding them more entertaining that chore.  Though Wyn's wife Winnie occasionally looses her and her brothers upon the wider world, undoubtedly when she herself is in need of a break !

"They probably would be," she agrees with Rana's conjecture. "Very good at taking care of business, the pair of them - they even seem to enjoy it !  I prefer the heavy lifting."

Berta smiles as Ush replies in kind, nodding her understanding, though the smile fades and her eyes narrow as the Half-Orc speaks about the travails of her training.

"I can't abide bullies," the warrior-woman avows. "but can't really recommend my own solution," smiling again, albeit grimly as she holds up a clenched fist. Though she did tend to win most of those youthful battles and at least gave as good as she got when she didn't.  "All I can suggest is to just be better than them - work harder, be stronger, faster.  If there's an ounce of worth in them then they'll respect you for it ... if not, then you know not to bother with them.  Feel free to mention my name, though.  At least one of them will have heard of me and if they know you're my friends they'll think twice."

"Gabriel, eh ?  When we're next in New Dawn, we might just drop in some time to watch the training," Berta grins wickedly.  "You can introduce me !"
~Ush Hunter
NPCe, 4 posts
Tue 20 Dec 2022
at 16:12
  • msg #275

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"It wasn't anything that lasted for long," Ush reassured the other women.  "One of the other staff at the stables, Gorthok, has been helpful and how I imagine a brother would be like if I had one.  Supportive and teasing, but he's taught me ways to get along with people that might think badly of me at first glance."  She shrugged as if it was of no further consequence.

"Besides, the more we train, the stronger and faster I'm getting, so it's all good."
Rana Nervetti
player, 327 posts
A long way from home...
...looking for something
Thu 22 Dec 2022
at 08:44
  • msg #276

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Rana looked thoughtfully at Ush, then decided that the young woman would ask for help if she needed it.  The sorceress had been coming to the realisation that everyone needed to learn to fend for themselves, on occasion, in order to grow into your own strengths.

She smiled at Berta.  "Anytime you want to visit, you will be more than welcome. And I'm certain that Gabriel and Alanna will be happy to show you around the ranch so you can see what they are achieving."

Rana sipped her wine, then queried, "Any interesting news from further afield recently, Berta?  Or does all seem quiet at the moment?"
~Berta Roth
NPC p, 103 posts
Human Female Dragonfriend
Let's do it my way
Sat 24 Dec 2022
at 04:54
  • msg #277

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"Sounds like you don't need my help," Berta smiles at Ush.  "Believe it or not, I never used to get along with people - comes from joining the Guard - you tend to only see the worst in folk."

"We'll definitely do that," the warrior-woman confirms for Rana, "just can't say when as yet, but we'll let you know."

"Interesting news ..." she raises her gaze to the rafters for a few moments, considering.  "Interesting, yes, but I'd not vouch for the reliability of much that I here, save to say that for every rumour or snippet there's always at least one of our customers who believes it wholeheartedly."

"Still, if you've gone and spent all your coin on that little lot," Berta nods at the shopping bags with a grin, "you might be interested ..."

She leans closer, lowering her voice conspiratorially.  "There were three fellows in here the other day - close-mouthed as they come to begin with, but after they'd loosened their tongues with a few drinks, I heard them arguing ... seems they'd found gold in the swamp out near Litwin's Cove."

Berta shrugs. "As I say, I can't vouch for the veracity.  Another fellow, fresh from a stint at the fort at Varnhold swore that we're all about to be overrun by centaurs, if you'd believe it ?!!"
Rana Nervetti
player, 330 posts
A long way from home...
...looking for something
Tue 3 Jan 2023
at 10:03
  • msg #278

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Rana's attention was piqued at Berta's mention of gold in a swamp as well as Centaurs.

"Those are very interesting rumours.  I've not heard of Litwin's Cove.  Where is that?"  She queried and then continued, "I think centaurs might make good allies, as long as there are good relations between all parties."

She leaned back in her chair and glanced around the room.

"I know that there is sometimes entertainment in the evening, Berta.  Is there anything planned for this evening?"
_ Winnie Roth
NPC, 37 posts
Co-Owner: Dragons Den
in Tusk
Tue 3 Jan 2023
at 10:13
  • msg #279

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Winnie moves around the bar, polishing a few glasses as she goes.
~Berta Roth
NPC p, 104 posts
Human Female Dragonfriend
Let's do it my way
Tue 3 Jan 2023
at 14:06
  • msg #280

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"Litwin's Cove ..." Berta's eyes narrow as she thinks on the best way to explain "... take the road South-West out of Westgate, and continue on through Apple Gate."  It's in the vicinity of Lake Hooktongue, though you'd have to trudge through a lot of swamp if you wanted to go for a swim !"

"Planned is a little generous as far as Folfast's organisational skills are concerned, but he usually rises for his breakfast round about now, and you don't so much prevail upon him for a song as set him off !" the Dragon's resident bouncer grins broadly.
Rana Nervetti
player, 331 posts
A long way from home...
...looking for something
Wed 4 Jan 2023
at 20:39
  • msg #281

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"I've seen enough mud recently to last me for quite some time!" Rana said as she wrinkled her nose as visions of lizardmen ran through her brain.  "However, this Folfast sounds, well, interesting, don't you think, Ush?"  Rana turned to her companion with her query.
~Ush Hunter
NPCe, 5 posts
Wed 4 Jan 2023
at 20:42
  • msg #282

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"Int'resting might work, but 'til we see him perform, we won't know."  The young ranger-in-training looked around the room to see if she could spot a likely candidate for their potential entertainment.  "Berta, does this Folfast just sing, or does he do other things as well?  Like juggling, or storytelling, or the like?"
~Berta Roth
NPC p, 105 posts
Human Female Dragonfriend
Let's do it my way
Thu 5 Jan 2023
at 06:29
  • msg #283

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"Judge for yourselves," the warrior-woman mutters her gaze lifting to the figure descending the stairs.  "Looks like he's up ..."
~Folfast Balhon
NPC p, 7 posts
Author, poet & playwright
Guest at the Roth's Inn
Thu 5 Jan 2023
at 06:43
  • msg #284

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"Ho !" the towering, lion of a man hollers out, pausing on the stairs to survey the Dragon's common room.  "Pour me a cup, my dear Gedd !  I have a terrible thirst upon me !"

So saying he finishes his descent, turning to glare at the final step as the floor rears up rather too soon, bestowing a withering glance upon it before straightening his clothing and completing his journey to the bar to break his fast with a hair of the dog.

"Better !" he proclaims, running the back of his hand across his lips and bristling beard.  "Much better !  Thus am I fortified !"

Turning around, his gaze passes over each and every patron, with a nod here and a smile there, whether they be regulars or here for the first time.

"What is this ?" Folfast asks.  "My audience awaits !  Where are my players, my troubadours, my fellows ?!!  Where is my fiddle, my fine instrument ?!!"

"Bring them !" he roars.  "Hurry !"
Rana Nervetti
player, 333 posts
A long way from home...
...looking for something
Thu 5 Jan 2023
at 20:31
  • msg #285

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Rana sat up as the loud man trundled down the stairs.  She glanced from Berta to Ush, then shrugged ever so slightly, before putting her elbows on the table (something her mam had always told her not to do), leaning forward and resting her chin on her fists.

"Looks like this could be interesting," she murmured softly to the other two women.
~Gabriel d'Aeris
NPC-Cohort, 1 post
Marshal: Aeris Estates
Thu 5 Jan 2023
at 23:30
  • msg #286

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Gabriel stepped into the Dragon's Den, his hair looking as disheveled as ever while his clothes seemed at least a tad bit cleaner than normal; clearly Alanna had made him put on some clean(ish) clothes for their time in Tusk. He glanced warily around the bar, and then noticed Rana and Ush. He exhaled a brief sigh of relief of seeing someone he knew as he walked over to their table, "Mind if I join you ladies?"
~Berta Roth
NPC p, 106 posts
Human Female Dragonfriend
Let's do it my way
Fri 6 Jan 2023
at 05:38
  • msg #287

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"Oh, it's always interesting," Berta replies guardedly but not without good humour, a twinkle in her eye.

The Dragon's bouncer steps away from Rana and Ush's table as Gabriel approaches, favouring the man with a nod and a grin, for her own red tresses are as untamed as his, if not moreso ... though she waits for the two ladies to acknowledge him before smiling at them and continuing on her rounds, all the more necessary now the evening promises to get a little more lively.
Rana Nervetti
player, 335 posts
A long way from home...
...looking for something
Fri 6 Jan 2023
at 07:19
  • msg #288

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Rana's smiled at Berta, then nods to Gabriel as he approached.  She gestured to the empty chairs.  "Of course you can join us," she began warmly.  "Have you managed to get everything done that you wanted to achieve today, Gabriel?"

She looked from the bottle of wine, then glanced to the bar.  "We're expecting some bread and cheeses to arrive imminently, and I'm certain they'll bring an extra glass with them, if you're minded to try the wine.  It's very nice."
~Gabriel d'Aeris
NPC-Cohort, 2 posts
Marshal: Aeris Estates
Fri 6 Jan 2023
at 14:46
  • msg #289

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Gabriel nods and takes a seat, "Wine sounds perfect," he says we a weary tone. "I think Alanna got everything she wanted, but who knows," he shrugs. "Now she and Marik are off on some secret mission...I'm just glad to not be navigating these streets any longer."

He turns to the half-orc woman, "So Ush, what do you think of Tusk? It's big, isn't it?"
Rana Nervetti
player, 336 posts
A long way from home...
...looking for something
Fri 6 Jan 2023
at 19:25
  • msg #290

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"Secret mission?"  Rana murmured softly, almost to herself.  Marik's business was, well, just that.  "Intriguing.  I'm certain if they wish us to know, they'll tell us."

She glanced across to the bar to get Gedd's attention, then held up her wine glass and pointed to Gabriel, hoping that Gedd understood her mimed request.  Settling back in her seat, she glanced over to where the entertainer was getting set up.
~Ush Hunter
NPCe, 6 posts
Fri 6 Jan 2023
at 19:32
  • msg #291

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Ush still felt a bit reluctant around Gabriel, however, on their journey from New Dawn she'd worked on conquering that discomfort.  Her response was slightly delayed to his question.

"It's bigger than anywhere else I've been.  More people and all in close quarters."  Ush paused as she searched for the right words.  "There's an odour underlying many of them, like they don't bathe regular-like.  Instead, they put on flowery scents over top, which just makes my nose itch."

"I'll be happy to get out of the city and back in the fresh air."  She took a sip of her wine before adding, "Though I found a few things for my family in a couple of the shops that I think they'll like.  So it's good that way."
~Gabriel d'Aeris
NPC-Cohort, 3 posts
Marshal: Aeris Estates
Fri 6 Jan 2023
at 20:45
  • msg #292

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Gabriel shrugged at Rana's mention of the secret mission, "I've learned not to ask about whatever they're doing. Usually it has something to do with government New Dawn, which I must admit bores me to tears," he adds in a conspiratorial voice.

He turned to Ush when she spoke and nodded in agreement, "I wholeheartedly agree. While there are some useful conveniences and sundries to be had, I much prefer the fresh air and quiet of nature."
~Folfast Balhon
NPC p, 8 posts
Author, poet & playwright
Guest at the Roth's Inn
Sat 7 Jan 2023
at 06:21
  • msg #293

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Graciously accepting a second tankard, and taking possession of his swiftly fetched instrument, Folstaff lumbers into action, striding purposefully across the common room to the stage.  His drink carefully placed in a safe spot where he can both keep an eye on it and reach it easily, he tunes his fiddle with an expert ear, teasing his audience, and smiling broadly at any calls to hasten, seemingly unmoved by their pleas.

At last the big man deems his fiddle ready and nestles the chinrest comfortably, bow poised ... then starts to play, a simple tune but lively and more than familiar to those who reguarly frequent the Dragon, waiting, as is his wont, for cups to be filled and shouts of approval to die down before he launches into the song.

OOC: The Lay of Middlemarch (fashioned after the traditional "To market, To market, went my brother Jim ...)

Lord Henry, Lord Henry, in his ermine-trimmed gown
Master of all and the talk of the town
He's taming the Middlemarch, these lands that were stole ...
And with him in charge ye'll have ale in thy bowl !

Mayor Cass sits on council and weighs up our pleas
With one eye on the traders and one on the fees
If ye want to do business then heed my advice ...
Bring a basket of pastries and be sure ye ask nice !

Bishop Andalon's the chancellor with his hands on the purse
A man good with money, those funds to disburse
A prelate of Abadar and a bit of a pranker ...
It's only expected, the man's a real banker !

Lady Pipre's our Advocate and dabbles in Alchemy
With dress inappropriate, she's fond of a daiquiri
To all disapproving, she says they can hang ...
One way or another, she's going out with a bang !


Folstaff grins broadly at the crowd.  "You thought perhaps I might have bitten off more than I could chew with a rhyme for 'Alchemy', eh ? Never doubt me, my fine friends, never doubt !"

Now V&A Shipping has fingers in pies
Adoven and Viktoria chasing the prize
They'll supply damn near anything, anytime, anywhere ...
Though it may damn well cost ye thy first-born and heir !

Dame Berta, Dame Berta, was eyeing the crowd
All ready to pounce if we got a bit loud
Young Thomas was frisky, had drunk too much stout ...
He reached for her ... arm and she punched his lights out !


"Well, my worthies ?  Any requests ?  Throw a name my way and I vow I'll do my worst !"
_ Winnie Roth
NPC, 38 posts
Co-Owner: Dragons Den
in Tusk
Sat 7 Jan 2023
at 08:22
  • msg #294

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"One of these days ...." Winnie mumbles to one of the servings staff.
~Ush Hunter
NPCe, 7 posts
Sat 7 Jan 2023
at 11:44
  • msg #295

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Ush perked up a bit when Folstaff took the stage, then chuckled softly at the song.  She didn't really know any of the noteworthy people he sang about, but it didn't make it any less entertaining.

When he called for suggestions, Ush glanced around the room wondering whose name would be put forward.
Customer
Sat 7 Jan 2023
at 11:58
  • msg #296

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"Tell us about Winnie ...." calls someone who has clearly had a few ales.
~Tic Hucklebuckle
NPC e, 21 posts
Hunter and Tracker
Domitius Companion
Sat 7 Jan 2023
at 12:14
  • msg #297

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Aye and Big Job Tic called out drunkenly from a table near the fireplace.
Rana Nervetti
player, 337 posts
A long way from home...
...looking for something
Sat 7 Jan 2023
at 21:09
  • msg #298

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Rana found herself tapping along with the rhythm and chuckled softly at Folstaff's prose, of a sort.  It had been a long time since she had seen an entertainer in a tavern and, whilst not the best she'd ever heard, it was rather good.  She glanced at Ush, then Gabriel, to see if they were enjoying the diversion from the norm.
~Folfast Balhon
NPC p, 9 posts
Author, poet & playwright
Guest at the Roth's Inn
Sun 8 Jan 2023
at 07:00
  • msg #299

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Folfast raises a brow at the names suggested.  "It seems we have revelers amongst us who are most fearless or perhaps foolhardy ... else very much in their cups !" he replies, with good humour, as he returns to the main theme.  "Still ... ne'er let it be said that Folfast was any less than doughty and stout-hearted !"

We all love our Winnie, our wise Dragon's Queen
She rules with a kind heart and manner serene
Of the flowers in the meadow she's most beautiful ...
And can always be trusted to keep thy cup full !


"The lady herself is present, of course," Folstaff raises his bow in salute to Winnie on the other side of the room.  "To say other than that would be ungallant, and ne'er have I been accused of that !"

Big Job had a large part in Pipre's success
Kept a smile on her face and her House clear of pests
Now Barleyboro's bailiff, he goes door to door ...
But he's not one to go where he's ne'er been before !


"And we must hope for Tic Hucklebuckle's sake that the gentlemen in question ne'er hears of this !  But what is sauce for the goose ..."

"I was out on the trail with Tic Hucklebuckle"
"Though we lusted for quiet, I just had to chuckle"
"For Tic is possessed of quite curious sight ..."
"He's blind in one eye - it's the left or the right !"


Folfast punctuates the last line by waving his bow first to one side then the other.

"Come ! Come !  Give me others whose names shall be forever immortalised  in song !  Do not let your courage fail you now !"
_ Winnie Roth
NPC, 39 posts
Co-Owner: Dragons Den
in Tusk
Sun 8 Jan 2023
at 07:54
  • msg #300

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

The crowd roars and cheers Folfast as he continues his song, although  Winnie throws the customer who names her, a hard look.  However, but appears pleased by Folfast's verse, although less so by his qualification afterwards, but once the verse is completed, she steps up on a chair  and bows flamboyantly to her clientele.  Still on her chair, she indicates that Folfast should keep the tune going, and then in a clear voice sings ...

Folfast, our bard, is not seen ‘til late
We know he will sing, that’s part of our fate
His words are amusing, his tunes bounce along
He keeps us amused with his magnificent song.


Then, with a theatrical bow, she hands the song back to the resident singer.
This message was last edited by the player at 11:11, Sun 08 Jan 2023.
~Gedd
NPC p, 39 posts
Gedd Roth
Half-orc archer
Sun 8 Jan 2023
at 08:32
  • msg #301

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Gedd was kept busy filling orders behind the bar for longer than he might have wished but as soon as there was a break he made sure one of the serving girls delivered the bread and cheese to Rana's table, then loaded a couple more wine glasses and four mugs full of ale onto a tray and delivered them to Rana's table himself.

"I hope you are enjoying the wine, but some folk prefer our Poacher's Pale Ale. You are welcome to try it for yourselves and make your own choice. If you like it, I'll invite you to join me in a toast to the man responsible for its recipe - our very own Pete the Poacher, retired. I know he's around here somewhere, but he's quite good at staying out of sight when he wants to!"
This message was last edited by the player at 12:13, Sun 08 Jan 2023.
Rana Nervetti
player, 338 posts
A long way from home...
...looking for something
Sun 8 Jan 2023
at 09:41
  • msg #302

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"Thanks, Gedd.  It looks like people have finally woken up for the day in here."  She glanced towards Folstaff as she spoke, then to the proferred glasses of ale.  "Again, very much appreciated.  I'm certain the ale will be as good as the wine.  And, if Pete's moniker indicates his previous profession, I imagine staying out of sight was a very useful skill.  It is one that, I think, would be handy for me to become better at if I'm being honest."

She waited until Gedd left the table, before returning her full attention back to Folfast.  She plucked up her courage and called loudly, "Tell us about Cyrus!"
~Tic Hucklebuckle
NPC e, 22 posts
Hunter and Tracker
Domitius Companion
Sun 8 Jan 2023
at 10:41
  • msg #303

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Tic laughed loudly at his verse and switched his eye patch from tight to left.  He takes a long drink before calling out again. Yes do all the founders, Andalon and Valoria.
~Sejana Cortellos-Solanus
NPC e, 46 posts
business manager/aide
Sisters of the Moon
Sun 8 Jan 2023
at 22:34
  • msg #304

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"Elga Verniex!" came another suggestion, from over in Tic's vicinity. One she couldn't resist making, enjoying the performer's talent, and wishing him to continue, though feeling a tad guilty for tossing a name (not to mention a personality) like Verniex.
_ Winnie Roth
NPC, 40 posts
Co-Owner: Dragons Den
in Tusk
Sun 8 Jan 2023
at 23:35
  • msg #305

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Winnie laughs at the suggestions coming in for Folfast, glad that she doesn't have to find rhymes for some of those names.
~Folfast Balhon
NPC p, 10 posts
Author, poet & playwright
Guest at the Roth's Inn
Mon 9 Jan 2023
at 13:20
  • msg #306

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"Thou are too kind," the troubadour bows his head in gratitude to Winnie both for her contribution and that that he was the honoured subject of her impromptu verse.

"Lord Cyrus has been retired from adventuring life for some time," he notes, nodding to Rana, "but still the tales of his exploits abound ... a stalwart warrior true ... but mayhap not in his element when care and quiet was the order of the day !"

Lord Cyrus went bounding through the Orcy Ring
Their arrows bounced off him, the foe scattering
He clattered down tunnels with gusto and wit ...
And with courage and virtue fell into a pit !


"Did I hear you mention old Pete, that most worthy of fellows, he who holds dear the secret of that blessed nectar Poacher's Pale ?"  the bard calls out, to Gedd over at the bar.  "I've an ear for every muttered word that falls from his lips," he informs his audience.  "One must be alert for the utterence of those sacred words 'here's your pint !' must one not ?"

Old Pete's been around fore'er and a day
And he'll be with us ever much longer we pray
He'll outlive us all for he's hearty and hale
And attributes his long life to his fondness for Pale !


"Andalon ?" Folfast raises a brow at Tic in mock outrage

"I've sung already of the praises of our good chancellor. Mayhap there is another of that name ?  Or should I believe instead that thy attention is fixed on thy cups and not the gems I lay before ye !  Pay better attention, thou sot !  My prose is destined for legend !"

"Lady Valoria, however ..."

As Keeper of Spellbooks and Lord Cyrus' wife
Poor Lady Valoria has an eventful life
Her husband's is trying but arcanely inept ...
Now her grandma's a frog and ... ribbet ribbet
!

"I am but mortal, have pity !" Folfast implores Sejana as she calls out a name, though his eyes twinkle as he sets his bow to meet the challenge.

Now they says she's a witch is old Elga Verniex
And if ever you call just to pay your respects
Wave hello to her scarecrow as he quivers and flaps ...
But just keep your hands of her prized Rattlecaps !


"A woman who's as fond of her mushrooms as I !" Folfast notes with approval.

"Come !  Who's next ?"
This message was last edited by the player at 07:11, Tue 10 Jan 2023.
Tobias Cotton
player, 39 posts
Mon 9 Jan 2023
at 13:24
  • msg #307

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Entering at that moment with his cousin, Tobias looked up, travel-weary, distracted and bemused, “Err, mines a pint of pale, good fellow”. He continued into the tavern, resuming his conversation with Esme, whilst behind him the tall Dagggerfall warrior who travelled with him smirked and shrugged at the bard
This message was last edited by the player at 13:57, Mon 09 Jan 2023.
~Pete the Poacher
NPC p, 18 posts
Retired poacher & brewer
of Poacher's Pale Ale
Mon 9 Jan 2023
at 14:35
  • msg #308

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"You better make that a couple of half pints," Old Pete quipped to Tobias as the little fellow brushed past him.

He followed up with a grin and a wink to soften any sting that joke might have inflicted.

Then he called to Folfast, "Don't forget Sir Kendrick, too!"
Cass Mordane
Player, 943 posts
Opportunist
Merchant/Magus/Miscreant
Mon 9 Jan 2023
at 22:33
  • msg #309

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Having heard good things of the latest around of entertainment, Cass decided to pop in for some well deserved refreshment and levity. Sidling next to Tobias, Cass intimated. “I tend to lean towards perlet myself. The bubbly white wine is like ambrosia to my senses. But I have considered establishing a brewery for a fine ale of my own. May I ask what elements you favor in such a concoction?”
_ Winnie Roth
NPC, 41 posts
Co-Owner: Dragons Den
in Tusk
Tue 10 Jan 2023
at 19:22
  • msg #310

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Winnie rolls her eyes, and makes sure the halflings get oversized tankards, rather than the halves suggested for them.
~Folfast Balhon
NPC p, 11 posts
Author, poet & playwright
Guest at the Roth's Inn
Wed 11 Jan 2023
at 05:30
  • msg #311

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Folfast raises a brow at Pete's suggestion, shaking his head.

"No ... the sacrifice of that good Knight and the battle that he and his companions," another nod, this to Cass in acknowledgement, "did wage against the evil they faced high in the mountains deserves better than a few paltry lines of prose with which to commemorate their triumph."

"That task falls first to those that were there ... else it would be my honour to pen such a ballad as might be worthy of the deed !"

"But raise your glasses, I charge you !" Folfast demands, lowering his fiddle as he reaches for his own cup.  "And let us pay our respects to Sir Kendrick and those who fought at his side !"

The big man drains his own cup, then calls loudly for a refill.

"Another ale, for I am parched !  And yet more names, I beg you, lest my audience's thirst be likewise unquenched !"
~Pete the Poacher
NPC p, 19 posts
Retired poacher & brewer
of Poacher's Pale Ale
Wed 11 Jan 2023
at 14:25
  • msg #312

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

In reply to Cass Mordane (msg # 309):

"For a good pale ale you'll need hops and yeast, of course, and pale malt. The pale malt is the key, you see? And that's down to the way the malt is roasted. Give it a couple of years of trial and error and you'll work it out," Pete chuckled.
Tobias Cotton
player, 40 posts
Wed 11 Jan 2023
at 21:21
  • msg #313

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Blinking out of his conversation, Tobais laughed at the half-pint/over-pint debacle, taking whatever came his way before beaming a full merchant's smile at Cass and Old Pete, "I'm a fan of pales, to be sure, but marsh herbs and marsh water make for the best stouts. You need something heavy and tarry to keep the biters at bay!"
Cass Mordane
Player, 946 posts
Opportunist
Merchant/Magus/Miscreant
Wed 11 Jan 2023
at 21:52
  • msg #314

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Cass listened to Pete and Tobias intently. “Perhaps I could discover a golden ale that is as filling as a stout and as light and refreshing as a pale. To be honest, I have drank enough tankards to appreciate them all, and as good as they are, after three of anything, I am a fan of nearly anything poured in a cup.”

Cass laughed bemused at himself and wondering if his reputation for drink was still as strong as it once was, after all, he had been out of the spotlight for some time with the latest adventure.

“Maybe it is the bard in me seeking perfection in brewing as elusive as the perfect song.”

Once someone was available, for the tavern was busy, Cass ordered a pale ale, a stout, a glass of whiskey, and a glass of perlet. Once the drinks arrived, he raised the whiskey along with Folfast’s toast. No other drink seeming appropriate for such honored persons. “To all the heroes of our homeland!” He toasted.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:00, Wed 11 Jan 2023.
Gwen
Thu 12 Jan 2023
at 10:35
  • msg #315

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

A young woman stands up, and indicates to Folfast that she has a verse.

There is a brave halfling called Tic
Who some say is a bit thick
He called for a name
That's been in the game
So really deserves all this stick.

~Folfast Balhon
NPC p, 12 posts
Author, poet & playwright
Guest at the Roth's Inn
Thu 12 Jan 2023
at 13:56
  • msg #316

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Folfast raises his refilled cup once more to join Cass in his most worthy toast, then yields the floor to Gwen. He play along on his fiddle as she performs, but gently so as not to compete with the lyrics ... and beams his approval at her verse.

"My lady, I am honoured that you choose to stand by my side and defend my honour against so reprehensible a rogue !  My thanks !"

"Vindication !  Now, who here has another name for me ? Speak up !"
~Sejana Cortellos-Solanus
NPC e, 47 posts
business manager/aide
Sisters of the Moon
Thu 12 Jan 2023
at 19:35
  • msg #317

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"Rikka deleMaistre!"  Sejana called out to Folfast, recalling another notable member of the community, that no one had suggested as yet.
~Folfast Balhon
NPC p, 13 posts
Author, poet & playwright
Guest at the Roth's Inn
Fri 13 Jan 2023
at 06:53
  • msg #318

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Folfast nods at Sejana's second attempt, wasting no time before launching into the theme ...

Young Rikka left Rostland and moved to Restov
Her prowess unpolished, her armour unloved
But by dint of her labours, those roots now defies ...
Makes the best arms and armour that money can buy !


"The difficult is in fitting such accomplishments as hers into but four short lines !" Folfast proclaims. "Another !  Another !  I shall rise magnificently to any challenge !"
~Tic Hucklebuckle
NPC e, 24 posts
Hunter and Tracker
Domitius Companion
Fri 13 Jan 2023
at 07:46
  • msg #319

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"How about Ethankos and Marceline.Tic calls out I don't think he did them... he said scratching his head.
This message was last edited by the player at 08:14, Fri 13 Jan 2023.
_ Wyn Roth
NPC, 34 posts
Co-Owner: Dragons Den
in Tusk
Fri 13 Jan 2023
at 08:04
  • msg #320

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Wyn grins and speaks softly in his brother's ear.  "It looks like we have got away with it" he says nodding in Folfast's direction
Rana Nervetti
player, 341 posts
A long way from home...
...looking for something
Fri 13 Jan 2023
at 08:45
  • msg #321

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Rana smiled as she listened to Folfast's verses. She made a mental note to ask Cyrus about the 'pit' Folfast had alluded to the next time she was in Ringbridge.

She was content to listen to the entertainment and not offer any more suggestions. "Are you both enjoying the entertainment?" She queried of her companions.
~Gedd
NPC p, 40 posts
Gedd Roth
Half-orc archer
Fri 13 Jan 2023
at 12:48
  • msg #322

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Gedd stepped out from behind the bar to deliver another mug of ale to Folfast.

"Do you remember Zelona?" he asked Folfast as he collected empty mugs.
~Folfast Balhon
NPC p, 13 posts
Author, poet & playwright
Guest at the Roth's Inn
Sat 14 Jan 2023
at 14:22
  • msg #323

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"A sudden clamour to hear about the doings of priests sworn to the Lady of Graves," Folfast notes with a broad smile. "I have before me a most morbid bunch this eve, eh ?"

A priest of Pharasma, Ethankos by name
He's larger than life and with tastes much the same
His path on life's journey he's keen to mispend ...
Since one way or another it'll come to an end !

Marceline came to Marchlands on a boat with the Roths
And many would say that was pun'shment enough
For as penance she now in Kunlun garden toils  ...
Just don't ask what she uses to fertilise the soil !


"And be sure you take care not to offend that good lady, dedicated servant of the Mother of Souls ... lest you find yourself working in her garden too !" he adds with a wink and a nod to Marceline."

"A good bard knows everyone," Folfast replies to Gedd. "A great bard such as I can winkle out even the best kept secrets ..."

Zelona's a druid who founded Old Keep
She's one who loves nature like roses and sheep
But please just don't ask her what she does for laughs ...
Just know her uncle in Osten makes self-heating baths !


"Thirsty work," the big man proclaims, taking up his cup and raising it in thanks to Gedd before downing a quick swig of ale.  He raises an expectant brow at his audience

"Do not fail me now, my worthies !  Speak up !"

This message was last updated by the GM at 14:22, Sat 14 Jan 2023.
~Barbatius Scaurus-Solanus
NPC-Squire, 53 posts
Aldori Defender
Domitius Cohort
Sun 15 Jan 2023
at 08:38
  • msg #324

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Barbatius had been sitting quietly enjoying the music.  What of Domitius, Alisa and Kiera, tell us of them Folfast
~Folfast Balhon
NPC p, 13 posts
Author, poet & playwright
Guest at the Roth's Inn
Mon 16 Jan 2023
at 14:43
  • msg #325

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"What of them indeed ?!!" Folfast roars, draining his cup.  "Listen well and I shall tell you ..."

Lady Alisa was a dangersome maid
They say she wedded her husband at point of a blade
But that's not the full tale as I've heard it said ...
The odds were nigh even that she'd stab him instead !

Lord Domitus, Sword Lord is fond of his blade
He keeps the edge sharp and of naught he's afraid
With it fast in his hand he would duel any man ...
And the bout it is over near soon it began !

Kiera's a lady with mysterious past
With her bars and her brothels she likes to live fast
For you'll always find her with a drink in her hand ...
Deep in her cups and bare able to stand !


The big man pauses a moment , to wipe his brow that glistens with exertion.

"And since I've no doubt impugned the reputations of so many, tis only fair ..."

The bard Folfast Balhon's the salt of the earth
With the voice of an angel and valorous girth,
His verse is inspired, his words ne'er forgot ...
He's a liar ... and a wastrel ... and a drunken old sot !


"Thank you, my friends, thank you !  And now I must rest a while from my labours and seek sustenance that I might return anon !  Drink up !"

So saying, Folfast bows, accepts the grateful applause of his audience and staggers off to the bar.
This message was last updated by the GM at 14:43, Mon 16 Jan 2023.
_ Wyn Roth
NPC, 35 posts
Co-Owner: Dragons Den
in Tusk
Mon 16 Jan 2023
at 17:43
  • msg #326

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Wyn joins in the applause as Folfast makes his way to the bar, then steps up onto the stage.  "I'm not sure I can follow that brilliant performance, but I'll have a go ..." He beckons to Gwen to join him, th3n whispers something to he.  Soon she is strumming a background tune that will serve to accompany his words.  However, he pulls a clarinet from midair and plays a lively little tune before he announces, The Bars of Tusk.

There is a young songstress called Gwen
Comes into the great Dragon’s Den
The soul queen of Tusk
She comes here to busk
And pick up a silver ... or ten.

Right out in the bastion at Shrike
There’s  a tavern I think you will like
The Dragonet’s bar
Is known near and far
And more than makes up for the hike.


"And I suppose I shouldn't forget Lord Henry's bars.  I wouldn't want him mad at me, and they do seem to have appeared quietly."

There’s Corn bars all over the place
Emblazoned with Henry’s face
The Golden in Ivory
The Cob, is less savory
While the Small Corn's in Domos’ embrace.


"I suppose there must be more bars than that, but I don't get out and about all that often ...". But it is said with a teasing voice, that implies that someone will know of more bars than that.
Cass Mordane
Player, 948 posts
Opportunist
Merchant/Magus/Miscreant
Tue 17 Jan 2023
at 22:58
  • msg #327

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Would that I could sing a song
Of Ethankos as paragon
Steadfast champion of The Lady of Graves
Who can count the lives and souls he’s saved?

Or Andalon, Abadar’s thinking man
Swift of mind and true of hand
He’s reshaped the world
From the very Stolen Lands

And Jensen, Son of the Everlight
Who wades so boldly into any fight
Hands that heal, for which they were made
But a blazing fire with his mighty Lucerne blade

Now Adoven’s a tempest, a force like the wind
Moving so quick and precise, to his will weapons bend
Foes he does make shudder, both near and afar
If you’ve seen his power, it’s like lightning in a jar

Call Marik, The Unleashed
Even Nature knows his name
The arcana that he commands
Puts mere mortals to shame

But the glory goes to Kendrick
Sing of him for many days
For with a single knife’s prick
He did end Evil’s Gaze

_ Wyn Roth
NPC, 36 posts
Co-Owner: Dragons Den
in Tusk
Wed 18 Jan 2023
at 09:06
  • msg #328

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Having, happily, conceded the stage to Cass, Wyn starts again.  This time not trying to tease the audience in the same way as Folfast managed.


There is a young songstress called Gwen
Comes into the great Dragon’s Den
The soul queen of Tusk
She comes here to busk
And pick up a silver ... or ten.

The Mithral Hotel is quite posh
Big rooms and excellent nosh
The cellars, extensive
The prices, expensive
You’d better have plenty of Dosh

Tansy’s is down by the port
Its clients a much rougher sort
There’s fishers and sailors
Dockers and bailers
And ale that is drunk by the quart.

The Nectar serves teamsters and guards
And all of them terribly hard
If words are misspoken
The tables get broken
Like the glorious halls of Asgard.

There’s Corn bars all over the place
Emblazoned with Henry’s face
The Golden in Ivory
The Cob, is less savory
While the Small Corn's in Domos’ embrace.

The Stadium’s bar is quite full,
The big game is always a pull.
It’s Kiera’s attraction,
And packed full of action,
And wine seems to flow by the jugful.

Right out in the bastion at Shrike
There’s  a tavern I think you will like
The Dragonet’s bar
Is known near and far
And more than makes up for the hike.

The Sylph has got a small bar
Though it really isn’t the star
The girls are all pretty
The boys, a bit gritty
And they are the big draw, by far.

The Pink Sting will sell you a tot
The bar staff are all really hot
With nothing to wear
Their bodies half bare
The service will cost you a lot.


This message was last updated by the player at 15:26, Sun 22 Jan 2023.
~Folfast Balhon
NPC p, 14 posts
Author, poet & playwright
Guest at the Roth's Inn
Thu 19 Jan 2023
at 05:05
  • msg #329

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

The large man claps his free hand on the bar top at the conclusion of Cass's ballad.

"As I said," Folfast loudly confides in Gedd as the crowd applauds the mayor's efforts, "the deeds of Lord Winter and his companions deserved something more than a rhyme around 'keeps an eye out' !  And who better than one who was himself there ... though I note that he has downplayed, nay, ignored his own contribution.  Such modesty ill-becomes those in my profession."

... and raises his cup, cheering loudly at the conclusion of Wyn's litany of Tusk's many drinking establishments.

"Well done indeed !  Your brother shows great promise," he vouches magnaminously to the bartender, proffering his cup.  "Another, if you please."
~Gedd
NPC p, 41 posts
Gedd Roth
Half-orc archer
Thu 19 Jan 2023
at 13:26
  • msg #330

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

Gedd pours another mug of ale for Folfast but keeps glaring at Wyn.

"So that's what he means when he says he's off to check out the competition. I need to get out of here more often, myself! I've never visited half the bars my dear brother seems to know so much about," he growls to Folfast.
_ Winnie Roth
NPC, 42 posts
Co-Owner: Dragons Den
in Tusk
Sat 21 Jan 2023
at 14:34
  • msg #331

Fuzzy: The Dragons Den

"He might not be visiting some of those bars too frequently."  Winnie comments with a scowl.  "If at all ..."
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