The town of Akramash is only a small stop on the northern trade routes of Yauh to the east. This is a very small population, that deviates from the main route by half a mile. You have reached this small village seeking for a place to stop for the night or because you have truly a business in here.

The town proper consists of a temple, an inn, a post office, a couple of shops, and about fifty homes, plus a main square -where the temple is-.

You reach the small town as it is still noon...



                      ^  to the mountains
                      |
                    Forest
                                The outer settlement
                    north gate

                   Akramash
      west gate                       east gate
      /          south fields           \
     /                                   \
    /             ||||||||||              \
 travel route                              travel route
To Yauh proper                             To Meexhal

Sigismund rode tall in the saddle on his horse, an imposing figure in his armor and cloak upon Satan, his Stallion Heavy Warhorse. He led his mule with all of his extra gear at the front of the party, but just barely, he tried to stay even with the others but Satan had his own ideas sometimes. Posie, his mule, just quietly followed behind, weary of the travel.

"It looks like we are here everybody, just in time for some food and cold beer. Doesn't look like there will be much opportunity to shop, they don't appear to have many, we need a bigger town."

He looked around at the others, Alyssa, Chess, Lal, and Li. They were still getting to know each other and had seen no real action together yet, but that would change soon.
This message was last edited by the player at 12:04, Wed 21 Dec 2022.

"We will have to determine what facilities the Inn may offer, day ale or fruit juice will suffice for me. A safe place to turn the ponies out to graze would be useful. That aside I have all I need currently."

"I think I have everything I need too, but, I'll think on it."

Alyssa followed a short distance behind the group keeping a watchful eye on anything that would be coming in from a distance, however as the village came closer she drew closer to the group. Not that she thought they were any safer, but she herself did not like civilized places. Akeda, come! She snapped her fingers and from the fields bounded out a large black wolf. Stay close. We're going into the town. The wolf gave a small whimper and moved close by her side.

Mordecai sat at a corner table of the bar in the inn, his head in his spellbook as he nursed a glass of ale and bread. Most everyone left the surly mage alone, which was honestly for the best for them unless they had something to offer him for his attention.

Amaryllis had found herself in an awkward position as she traveled the roads leading to Akramash. Despite her best efforts not to, she had ended up with traveling companions, brought to her by the road and what seemed to be the will of the Mother. She had recognized one of the other adventurers, mainly by the large wolf at the tiefling's side, and it'd be rude to turn down the offer of shared strength to protect against the elements and potential threats. So there she was, breathing a sigh of relief as they reached the town gates.

"I thank you once again for sharing the road with me. I don't believe I'll be in town long," She eyed their surroundings with what seemed like concern, then continued, "but should you have need of me or the Mother's services in the meantime, I believe I shall be easy to find." She gave them all a warm, earnest smile that contrasted the young woman's somewhat jumpy behavior while they had been traveling.

They would most likely all be headed to or staying at the inn eventually, so she saved her farewells till they were close. "Well then, I will take my leave. May the Mother watch over you and the Father guide your steps." She gave them a stiff bow, leaving no room for argument, her heavy black armor with gold trims clearly hampering her movements. If not for the holy symbols of the Mother clearly visible on her chest and sown into the dark cape draped over her armor, one might think Amaryllis served the dark one instead. Some thought so regardless, considering the symbols of the Mother a ruse or ploy to lower their guards. Unfortunately, it was a necessary presentation.

She entered the inn, scouting out the bar area for a place to sit in peace. She would let the others seek board and lodging first, she could inquire at the temple if the inn ran out of rooms. Meanwhile, she found a spot near a surly-looking man at the corner. While obviously not quiet, there was a strange whisper to the heavy black armor, and she put down her things as silently as possible to avoid disturbing him. Her hope was that the man's attitude and her odd appearance would keep others at bay. She would greet him with a polite nod if he looked her way, but otherwise make it clear that she had no intention of disturbing him. While trying to figure out whether someone would come to take her order or if she needed to head to the tavern master, she distractedly worried if there would be a place to buy new socks.
This message was last edited by the player at 04:11, Thu 22 Dec 2022.

"Take care of yourself Amaryllis, if you ever need help or are looking for traveling companions, look us up!" He waved goodbye to her and headed in the direction of the tavern himself! A nice lunch and an ice cold ale! He couldn't wait!

After he secured his horse to the hitching post he walked in and looked for an empty table for the party to sit at. He saw Amaryillis sit by a sullen man that appeared to be a crab! He held up his hand to order service! He wanted some heavy soup, bread cheese and a chunk of ham to gnaw on! He paid what the serving girl asked plus gave her a tip for the good service.
This message was last edited by the player at 13:10, Wed 21 Dec 2022.

With all the racket of a fresh suit of platemail rattling around beside him, the young wizard couldn't help but look up from his studies. His eyes were distant for a moment before he locked onto the source of the noise, and he heaved a sigh. Wonderful, another loud, haughty religious type, here to ruin a perfectly good spot to copy scrolls. "If you want service, you'll have to get up and get it," he remarked as she looked around at the staff. With his helpful comment, he returned to copying scrolls.

As most entered the town and headed towards the inn Alyssa stopped and took time to look around the town before settling down anywhere. She walked the streets of the town pulling her hood up to hide her horns from the locals. Time and time again she learned thst people were more weary of her when they realized exactly what she was.

Amaryllis jumped slightly, pale green eyes darting to the young man as he addressed her. She had expected him to ignore her completely, but her attempt at moving quietly had failed. While her armor was magically enhanced to better allow for silent movement, even magical items could not work miracles. She definitely had hit more edges than she had meant to. It dawned on her that the sigh she had heard had probably been for her as well, so she smiled apologetically while he still looked up. "Thank you. I promise I shall be out of your hair soon." She said as he looked down again, then moved to order.

She nodded a smile to Sigismund as she passed him, the large man easy to spot with both his bulk and energetic air. Hearing his order, she too asked for some hearty soup, though a large portion and simple bread and water to go with it. Once paid for and received, she put her meal down at her seat. Next, she very softly knocked five times under the edge of her table and began eating, finally quieting down. Only a few magically muted clinks from her arms could be heard here and there as she ate.

"Doubtful," he muttered under his breath as he looked at the large, burly man and his boisterous ordering. Great, another one. At least the woman had tried to be quiet, even if she'd failed miserably. He doubted this large fellow would even attempt to do the same.

When they are all together and Alyssa has rejoined them, Sigi begins to speak:

"Now then what do we do next? Who wants to be the leader of our little company, I'm big and loud and fight like a demon, but planning and thinking ahead are not my strong suit. Then we have to pick a name for our little group, do any recruiting we want to do, then start to find work for ourselves. Ideas, suggestions?"

He looks from face to face as he eats a chunk of cheese and quaffs some ale down his gullet.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:47, Wed 21 Dec 2022.

On entering the Inn Li will take note of the surroundings then look for and approach the Inn keeper.
"Good Afternoon. Do you have accommodation available? A space on a dry floor for my bed roll will suffice. Also is there anywhere within the village walls where I can safely set my horses to graze, otherwise do you have a secure pen or barn? Additionally do you have food available? Bread, Cheese, and fruit will be sufficient, and an ale, day ale if you have it."
[OOC: Day ale is the standard medieval method, at least  in most of Europe, for ensuring that water was drinkable. Day Ale, is actually malted barley fermented for about 48 hours, which is enough to generate 1% alcohol by volume, which is sufficient to kill most water born bacterial agents.]

"Join us Li. we're just getting ready to discuss our future! We have plenty of room at the table!"

The innkeeper was a young adult woman with a perpetually bored expression. She moved quickly to serve and bring plates to the bar but without ever acknowledging any of the customers. She just answered to the requests with a tired yet still somehow polite voice. "Five Meexi Kuidhi* the night, I take Yauhi Sitheri but it costs extra. I only have good rooms for one or two, I take no bums."


*Kuidhi are the silver coins from Meexal, Sitheri are the silver currency from Yauh. They are equivalent in weight, but not everybody takes either

"I can pay my way if that's what concerns you. The common room floor or dormitory is more than sufficient for my needs. Save your good rooms for those who prefer such luxuries.
And my horses? You didn't answer my question regarding them."

The woman didn't change her expression. "Honey, there's no common room. One Kuidhi per night for stabbling. I take no bums".

"In which case I will take on of your rooms and stabling for 1 night"
Li will then move to the table where Sigismund is.
"I can see no reason to linger here. Safety on the road is one thing, but there is nothing to detain me here.
I shall therefore depart in the morning. Whether anyone else chooses to travel with me on the road is entirely down to them."

Other people would be satisfied with extracting money from a weary traveler, but Rummia took the money with the same expression as before. Nothing seemed to face her.

Everybody give me a perception check

As far as Li was concerned the bar of the inn was just a normal bar in an establishment catering to weary travellers.
01:17, Today: Li Ome rolled 11 using 1d20+8.  spot check

Mordecai tries his best to stay focused on his studies and is somewhat oblivious to his surroundings, as is usual.

20:56, Today: Mordecai rolled 14 using 1d20+1.  Spot.

Alyssa stayed in the less crowded areas. She didn't want to be noticed and even if she was noticed she didn't want to present a rememberable face. Things went easier that was and the less Sue had to deal with these "civilized" folk the better.

20:53, Today: Alyssa rolled 7 using 1d20+6.  Spot.

Amaryllis' ears picked up as Rummia explained the availability and rates for boarding to Li. "I take no bums," the woman had repeated twice, though she seemed dispassionate about both her rules and her customers. Amaryllis glanced down herself and frowned, wondering what would classify as a bum. Her clothes were travel-worn but not filthy, her armor was in good shape. She slept in a tent most of the time, but that could probably be said for Li as well and the young woman accepted her money just fine. Amaryllis would probably be fine too, but she suspected there would be no arguing with the stone-faced innkeeper if first turned away. The temple might yet turn out to be the better option.

Turning in her seat, her pale eyes slid over the room and the people in it. If she had a feel for the usual clientele, it'd be easier to judge how best to present herself. But there was something else, too. Usually, when Amaryllis ran into a high density of clearly battle-hardened adventurers, trouble was never far off. She looked out for signs of that trouble brewing as well as she silently surveyed the inn.

10:45, Today: Amaryllis rolled 18 using 1d20+4. Spot Check .

In reply to Amaryllis (msg # 24):

07:16, Today: Sigismund rolled 18 using 1d20.  spot

"We were discussing forming an adventuring company, deciding who to invite, who to make leader and the name then find work to earn us enough coin to thrive," He says loudly enough for all in the place to hear. "We seem to have the bases covered and I think that between us, we got what it takes. We've traveled together and get along. We've seen each other interact, but not really fight, though I have no doubt we will do well. What do you all think? Should we give it a shot and go off to riches and glory!"

He pushes the empty tray of food off to the side out of the way and gets another ale to take care of his thirst. The road had been dusty.

Lal entered the inn to find a small crowd already inside, a faint concern given he had stopped by the village in the hope of finding somewhere to stay. Rather than assume that though he headed in to clarify it, flashing a brief smile to anyone whose gaze turned his way that vanished as soon as it appeared. It seemed that was only politeness though as his attention did not linger overlong even on the stranger sorts gathered in the inn, though the armoured man's recruitment spiel got a look of mild curiosity given the oddness of it given the otherwise seemingly quiet nature of the town.

Moving to the bar itself he nodded to the woman behind it and addressed her in a polite but slightly quiet voice, "Good day. Do you have any rooms free for the night?"

OOC: 14 Spot
This message was last edited by the player at 21:12, Tue 27 Dec 2022.

Walking into the inn was a figure that had their hood up and covering their head.  From under the hood on the sides long flowing silver hair could be been and you can also determine that the form of a female with a nice figure was entering.

The head of the figure looked around but didn't say anything.

Listening to what the innkeeper just said to someone made her wonder if this place was worth her coins.

20:07, Today: Chess ala'riina rolled 7 using 1d20+4.  Spot.

In reply to Chess ala'riina (msg # 27):

Sig looks over the newcomers as they come in, weighing their abilities, they looked able too. He hoped some would be interested in going out on the road to adventure. This could be fun and profitable, but dangerous. All would not survive but most would.

"Speak up! What do you think? Should we form an adventuring company? Anyone else interested here in the tavern interested in listening in and consider joining up? Many of you look more than capable! I'm a capable warrior with some experience at it myself, I'll not boast though, I'll let my arm carry my word, some have seen me in action already. I'll buy a round of ale for the house."

He looks out across the crowd, from face to face, trying to read them all. Most will get their free beer and go home, but a few might be interested. He looks at those around the table too, including the ones that had discussed parting ways. He didn't necessarily want to lose his new friends so quickly.

The innkeeper repeated her spiel in the same dispassionate and bored voice. "We have rooms, five Meexhal Kuidhi the night, I take Sitheri, but it costs an extra for the exchange."

In reply to Rummia (msg # 29):

PM

In reply to DM (msg # 31):

Sigi tried to sense the motive of the lady bartender toward Amaryllis. Was it sexual in nature? He couldn't tell. He was befuddled and confused by her glances.


The patron interested him too, but he couldn't read her either.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:27, Fri 23 Dec 2022.

As she took in her surroundings, Amaryllis noticed a couple of things. One, it seemed that whenever she looked in the direction of the innkeeper, their eyes would briefly meet or the woman would look away just before they did. The young cleric was used to interest directed her way, but usually, it was either an attempt to gauge whether she truly served the Mother or if she seemed the type to offer her services for free.

The second thing she saw was a handful of patrons that stood out; two new arrivals and a woman who seemed to be sizing Sigismund up with amusement. Of the two arrivals, only one of them met her eyes, giving her a brief but polite smile which she returned, though her own smile lingered longer. It had taken a lot of time and practice, but the sisters had instilled in her the mannerism of one of the Mother's chosen - warm, welcoming, never threatening. Amaryllis pulled it off most of the time.

Lastly, she noticed a cloaked figure in the corner, also not an uncommon sight to her. This, however, was because she often aimed for that very seating arrangement herself and understood the need for privacy. As she looked at his black clothing and gray cape, she mused that she and her unwilling table companion were not the only ones with a penchant for dark colors. Something about the figure stood out to her, and she would try to gauge his role in the scene. But surely the town was too small for serious troublemakers to seek out?

She made a mental note to stay on her toes, then looked to see if the innkeeper still glanced her way. It seemed she did. Amaryllis had always been terrible at hiding her own intentions, so she tried to hold Rummia's eyes once and offered her a warm, inviting smile as she approached. She would wait for the young man, Lal, to finish his payment, then strike up a conversation if the innkeeper seemed keen.

00:45, Today: Amaryllis rolled 12 using 1d20+4. Sense Motive.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:40, Fri 23 Dec 2022.

Mordecai was mostly disinterested in the goings-on of the inn, but the odd man in the corner did strike him as... odd. Though not any more odd than himself, he figured. "That large man sure is loud, hmm?" he thought out loud as he closed his spellbook angrily and slid it into his backpack, which made no motion as to accommodate the large book. "What is he going on about, anyway? An adventuring party? By the gods, does he have a death wish? Imagine having a desire to put one's self in danger, and for what? Profit? The good of the people? Pff," Mordecai waved his hand in the air. "I prefer to have a reason to go out in harm's way, like a nice reward or a nicer woman, not simply do them for the hell of it," he nodded, mostly to himself, as he absently watched the other hooded figure in the corner.

"Any thoughts from anyone?" He looks over everyone again. "Come gather around, get your beer and let's hear what you have to say! Any practitioners of the arcane or divine arts? People good with their hands and fingers? Warriors? We can use you! It can make you rich, or kill you! I'll not lie and say it is safe, it isn't, but you'll earn better than 2 or 3 gold a month though!"

"Do you seek power and knowledge? This is how you find it, you seek it out and take it! Glory and riches, for you and your god! Seek and you shall find they say!"

Oh well, I tried! he thought to himself, disappointed that his own group hesitated, he would wait, someone would get the nerve up. He drank his ale and ordered again. "Another round for the house, How much do I owe you barkeep?" He hands her a shiny new platinum piece! She may have never seen one before, or it has probably been awhile since she has.

Nodding acknowledgement of the price Lal dipped a hand into a small coin pouch, producing the requested amount after a moment or two and laying it on the counter before returning the hand to his side. As conversation continued behind him he opted not to join those gathered in the more communal area, remaining at the bar, though when he saw the armoured woman behind him appeared to want to to talk to the woman serving at the bar he shifted to one side somewhat to give her the space to get by, turning to watch the comings and goings of the room with interest as they continued.

Li regarded Sigismund. He'd been okay as a companion on the road but now he was just being loud. She'd already said her piece and nothing he'd said since had done anything to change her mind.
The Innkeeper was another matter, she just could work out whether she was just rude or racist. Without her school's teachings and years of practice she might have reacted, now she just let it pass her by.
She smiled at the cleric, if she read the markings on her robes correctly, she had the same respect for life as she did, even if all of their two philosophies didn't completely tally.

Chess ala'riina was wondering what was the big human speaking about, wanting to get a group of adventures for what.  This place didn't look like much and she was only here passing through for the night and moving onward in the morning.

This place seemed to be picking up a lot of stragglers being the only inn in town, it must make a lot of coins.

"I would like a room. she said as the bar maiden offered.

That was all she had to say and she didn't wish to speak to the big man asking for people of all sorts to join him in a drink.  That is one way to get yourself killed, poisoned or sold off as a slave.

After he paid for the two rounds on the house, he sat and nursed his beer for a bit, quietly thinking why there was no interest at all. He was stunned. He had noticed folks sitting afar in the room, he decided to feel the room. He walked over to where there was a man dressed in dark, black and grey it looked to him, perhaps a wizard.

He quietly said to him, "May I join you sir? Sorry for being so loud a bit ago, you were reading. Are you a wizard or some other kind of arcane caster? Would you be interested in honing your skill, gathering new spells and getting rich if we live?"

It's a hard life, but  you would have me and others protecting you until you are powerful enough to protect us!" He says with a grin. "My name is Sigismund Yyragerne, I'm pleased to meet you."
This message was last edited by the player at 18:09, Sat 24 Dec 2022.

Mordecai inwardly (and outwardly) sighed as the large man came walking up to him. "I have had my fair share of adventuring, my 'friend', I can assure you, I know of the dangers. I suppose if there is cause for us to travel together, I would be more than willing to allow you to stand in front of me while our enemies pelt you with arrows," he smiled. "If you find a good reason to join forces, come back and find me," he nodded, returning to his drink.

"Finding ancient tomes and powerful spells doesn't interest you? Okay, stay a lowly hedge wizard." He got up and wandered to the next person and the next. (I'm, not sure who is where at the moment.)

He walked up to Chess, "You interested in forming an adventuring company to seek wealth, fame and power? I don't know what else to offer, equal shares and magic." He said in an even tone, making sure he was not loud and overbearing as he knew he could be. He had a loud way of speaking that turned people off.

"How or what can I do to convince you Li? You are an excellent warrior! You are every bit as good as I."

Chess ala'riina looked at the large man for a moment before speaking "Adventuring.  That sounds interesting but what kind of adventuring are there around here?  Are you a local of this area? she replied.  Not allowing her hood to fall from its place as her face was well hidden in the darkness of it.

"Oh and if your promising magical items then I do wish to get first pick. she smiled under the hood.

In reply to Chess ala'riina (msg # 43):

"No, I am not local, we'll be on the road and in the wilderness or underground a lot, We'll have to look for it. I propose that we share what magic we provide, the person that can put an item to use, should get it. That is what I propose, If we ever get a group, we'll have to decide together how we want to run it." He smiled. "Thank you for giving me your time and making me feel good at least. If you want something to eat or drink, I'll pay for it."

Her delicate hand raised "There is no need for you to purchase anything for me. I'm capable of paying for myself but thank you. she replied then looked to the innkeeper and waiting for her to give keys to a room so that she could get her things in there and then come back down for meal.

Amaryllis shifted awkwardly from one foot to the other, hands clasped in front of her as she missed her opportunity to approach Rummia after the young man, Lal, had paid his room fees. Regardless, she made sure to smile and nod a greeting at Chess, trying to appear as if her intention had been to stand where she did all along. Patience was a virtue, after all. Though from her odd placement in the room and complete lack of any other obvious purpose, most would probably be able to deduce that she wished to speak with the innkeeper.

She admired Sigismund's grit as he continued his seemingly hopeless quest to recruit members for an adventuring party. Amaryllis herself had made it clear on their way there that she would be unable to do any such thing until the Mother no longer required her services, and it was not her time yet. She winced slightly as she overheard his failed attempt to garner the interest of the man she had sat next to before, but quickly smoothed her expression. She could hardly blame either. Maybe the large man would have better luck in a larger town, she thought. However, just as she did, the figure that had approached the innkeeper at Amaryllis' indecision reacted not entirely negatively to his inquiries. 'Guess there is hope for Sigismund and his ventures after all,' she thought with a smile. As he briefly stole the attention of the figure, who was clearly a woman, the cleric saw her chance to speak up.

"Pardon me for interrupting, but did I hear you say you only had two good rooms left, Madam?" She looked at Rummia, her tone friendly and not accusatory. "Does that mean you have other rooms available, just with less... err, view of the town, perhaps? Or were those the last you had available? If the former is the case, I, too, wish to stay the night. If the latter, I will see if the temple will shelter me for the night." She gave the woman a knowing look, having purposely given her a way to track her down should they not get the opportunity to talk
This message was last edited by the player at 17:10, Mon 26 Dec 2022.

Having wandered enough to ease her sense of dread about being in civilized parts again. Most she traveled with had talked about heading to the inn, and that seemed to be the best place to find them, perhaps any regard to troubles within the lands thst she could help with. Taking a few turns she found herself at the door to the inn and tavern. Akeda, come. She spoke softly tapping her side to indicate the wolf should stay close at her side.

She pushed the door open the wolf giving a dull whimper as they entered and stayed close to his master's side. Alyssa surveyed the room for a moment seeing a few she traveled with still here and was partly thankful for that fact. She pulled her hood up more to keep her horns hidden before taking a seat at the nearest empty table. A few were already talking about adventures and more travels together. Riches and fame didn't interest her as much as the delicate balance of nature and those who tried to bring it to heel at their command. Humans were very foolish about such things and often thought they somehow knew better.

Sigismund went to the bar the himself, when there is a slight lull and he can get a word in edgewise he'll speak to her, "Are there any rooms anywhere to let? I'm in need of lodging for the night. Even the stables would be good." he said to her, not knowing the rooms were all let already.

The innkeeper was taken aback by Amaryllis suddenly being so close. And she nearly panicked, finally giving any kind of reaction, she struggled to speak coherently. "No, no, we have room! Look you can stay for free if you go upstairs like, right now?" She quickly handed a pair of keys, shaking and struggling to make a nervous smile.

The stranger in grey and black gave a haughty and boastful laugh. "My man, I'd be interested in the company. You see I'm a hunter of a very specific brand of prey. Once I'm done, I could reconsider your offer." He toasted and took a drink. "Thanks for the drink though"

While her smile never faltered, Amaryllis' eyebrows shot up at the drastic change in the innkeeper's demeanor. "There's no need for that, my good woman. Why don't you take this—," she reached out and clasped the hand that held the keys offered to her, pressing several coins into it as she accepted them. Her movements were open and steady, there was no need to try to hide what she was doing. "—and come find me once I have settled in and the other waiting patrons have gotten their board sorted out." She gestured to Sigismund and the hooded woman he had been talking to with her free hand.

"You can bring me my change and we can finish our little discussion about payment then." It was not the first time Amaryllis had met someone anxious to talk to her, nor would it be the last if her dark luck had anything to say about it. Keys securely in her hands, she gave Rummia another reassuring smile and returned to her previous seat to get her things.

She paused as she looked at Mordecai, tempted for the briefest of moments to tell him she told him she'd be out of his hair soon, but held her tongue and bowed another greeting, the snarky comment nothing but a twinkle of humor in her eyes as she did. Softly, as to not be overheard, she said, "I'm afraid I can only offer you one less noisy element for now. May the Mother grant you a restful day." While still amused, her greeting seemed sincere. She quickly gathered the rest of her things and headed up the stairs Rummia had nervously gestured toward. Once up and out of sight, she allowed the ever-present worry that gnawed at her to break free in the form of a frown. Surely her presence hadn't brought trouble to the town ahead of her arrival? That would be a first.

She found her room swiftly, letting herself in and setting down her backpack.

In reply to Roger (msg # 50):

"Greetings, what prey would that be? My name is Sigismund, and you are?" He reaches out his hand in greetings.

Mordecai humphed as the large man walked away from him, taking another sip of his ale. "Hedge mage. Ha! If only he knew how skilled of a wizard I was," he shook his head, waving his hand in the air dismissively.

When the woman in black made her remark about having a restful day, he chuckled. "Until I get out of here, I do not see that happening, but thank you all the same. At least someone in here has some kind of manners," he nodded. "I'm not one for religious talk, but the same to you," he almost smiled back at her. Now, if she wanted to adventure with him, he might take her up on the offer. She seemed to be more interested in being left alone, though. After she left, Mordecai went back to watching the rest of the bar patrons, especially this one talking about prey.

All color simultaneously went away from the innkeeper's face while it simultaneously reddened. At the same time, she grasped for air in relief.

The man was casual with the conversation. "Oh, but the hunt would be harder if I went public with it. Things are better when the target is unaware." he toasted once again before offering his hand "Roger Black"

In reply to Roger (msg # 55):

Sigismund frowned, "I don't hunt men sir. Beasts and monsters and evil things, but I do not hunt men!"

Looking Mordecai's way as the man confidently spoke of his arcane ability Lal asked, mildly, "Do, please, elucidate. I enjoy hearing tales of arcanists as well as warriors and a bit of variety is welcome." He smiled easily in a relaxed fashion, his attention on the individual rather than roaming across the rest of the bar for the moment.

In reply to Sigismund (msg # 56):

"Men can be evil things too, sir..." The man took another drink.

Sigismund visibly relaxed when Roger said that, "Yes, they can be very evil. I was mistaken, I do hunt men, but I'm no Bounty Hunter, I hunt evil and stamp it out." He said to Roger sitting there smugly, "So? Would you be interested?"

The Wizard regarded the curious man... curiously, wondering if he was telling the truth or just pulling his leg. Ah, well, either way, it would be a good time to boast about his ability! "Well, I am no bard by any means, but if it's a tale you wish, a tale I shall deliver," he nodded, sitting upright in his chair a little bit. "I am a Conjurer, you see, one who calls upon creatures from another plane to do my bidding. I have summoned countless of these creatures, and my abilities cause them to be even more formidable than one would normally expect. Take, for instance, the time I called upon a celestial hippogryph to fend off a wild Owlbear who sought to make me his dinner, or perhaps when I summoned a monstrous spider, so that it would trap a would-be thief in its web before, well... let's just say that the thief didn't steal anything from anyone else, ever again," the wizard laughed. "What about yourself? What great exploits do you have to regale us with?" he asked, sitting back in his seat now that he was finished bragging.

Sigismund paid attention as Mordecai spoke. "Very good sir! My apologies, you have moved past being a simple Hedge Wizard, you are a full blooded Wizard yourself! What are you seeking? I will help you find it! Strength lies in numbers, as does living in these times. If you are not interested in joining us, perhaps we'll join you!"

"Some of these wonderful people, all great adventurers themselves, may join us, it is entirely up to them! Are we seeking magical items, gold, items to be gathered to cast some great spell?"

Chess ala'riina was a bit taken when the innkeeper offered a room to the human so quickly and offering it free if she would go upstairs now.  But then again why was she acting a bit nervous.  It just didn't seem right and her eyes looked up toward the stairs going up.

"So she gets a room free if she goes up now.  Does that offer apply to all of us? she asked the innkeeper

The innkeeper reacted quickly to Chess "It can be free for you if you can keep her there and busy for the three hours."

Now that was an odd reply and she didn't understand why the innkeeper would want for someone to keep a customer in a room for three hours, busy.  That didn't bond well with her and she looked over to the big brute "Hey Sigismund are you busy?  Come with me upstairs.  I think this innkeeper just put that woman in danger. then she lets the muscles go first and following behind him, that is if he comes.

In reply to Chess ala'riina (msg # 64):

Sigismund looks to Chess when she speaks, "Please excuse me, I've been called. I'll be back shortly." He goes to Chess, listens to what she says, and leads the way upstairs. "You know the room number Chess?" He says as he tops the stairs and looks down the hall to see if there is sign of her.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:55, Wed 28 Dec 2022.

In reply to Chess ala'riina (msg # 64):

On hearing the statement by the hooded woman with the silver hair, Li gets up out of her seat and follows Sigismund upstairs.

Listening with polite interest to Mordecai's explanation Lal opened his mouth to answer but before he could Sigismund suddenly resumed talking to the man. Tilting back slightly he waited for the conversation to have a break but even as he did so the innkeeper's behaviour grew odd enough that it was called out by one of the others present. Sending an apologetic nod Mordecai's way he said, "I'll answer that in a moment."

As three people headed up the stairs he turned to regard the innkeeper and asked with a light tone, "I don't suppose you'd like to shed some light on things? I mostly overlooked you offering the free room to the lady earlier but now it seems you've gotten people panicking, perhaps you could calm things down by clarifying why it's so important for you to keep her here?"
This message was last edited by the player at 20:51, Wed 28 Dec 2022.

In reply to Lal (msg # 67):

Sig listens at the first door, he taps at the door, and listens for Amarylis to answer.

He then looked to Chess with questioning eyes.

In reply to Lal (msg # 67):

The innkeeper was genuinely about to bang her head on the counter, both at the unexpected reaction and at the requested explanation, but before she could begin to speak, a loud thundering but still unmistakenly female voice came from outside the twin doors to the inn.

"I request entrance to this establishment..."

Looking genuinely sympathetic at the innkeeper's expressions Lal was about to offer some words of empathy but, given the sudden bellow from out front, was somewhat distracted by that. Glancing the woman behind the bar's way for a moment he nodded his head in the direction of the door, "Want me to let them in?" At this point he was beginning to fight off a grin, from the looks of things this was more likely to be amusing than sinister but he was not quite willing to be too relaxed about matters yet.

Looking to Sig "She is in the other room a bit down further. After looking at the first door and its number upon it.

This didn't feel right and she wanted to survive what ever hell that innkeeper just placed them in.

Mordecai looked over at the odd hooded man and leaned in closer to him. "And what would that be?" he whispered back.

Amaryllis was waiting for the sound of the innkeeper heading her way, though she was expecting it to be a little while yet what with all the travelers coming to town today. She let her hood down, fully freeing her long mop of wild, black curls and revealing her face. She was just about to take a look around her room when she heard knocking on one of the doors further down the hallway. Had the innkeeper been so anxious she forgot what room she had given her? It was possible.

As she made it to her door, she heard what sounded like a woman's voice. Deciding to step out and point Rummia in the right direction, Amaryllis opened her door and headed out into the hallway.

She blinked, surprised at the three adventurers she found herself face to face with. She looked from Sigismund to Li, then at the woman unknown to her. "Were you looking for me?" She asked, confusion clear in her voice and expression. She looked apologetically at the large warrior. "Sigismund, if this is about joining you on adventures, I'm afraid I must insist on my previous answer. I do wish you all good luck and the safety of the Father's watchful eyes, however." She smiled reassuringly at Li and Chess.

In reply to Amaryllis (msg # 73):

Sigismund turned toward Chess and pointed off handedly, "She thought you were in danger and that we should come to make sure everything was on the up and up. I was in a conversation with a good wizard to join up with him in his adventures. People don't seem to realize there is safety in numbers, friends to cover your back."

The man was surprised by Mordecai. "Oh, sorry, was thinking out loud, but you know. Why would someone ask for permission to enter when this is a public space and the gates aren't locked?"

"Well, who do you think it is? Someone who needs permission to enter a room? What, do you think she is a vampire?" Mordecai all but laughed in the man's face. "Surely you jest!" he continued, getting up to look out the door into the night to see who was there.

With no answer from the innkeeper Lal shrugged and stepped to one side as Mordecai headed for the door. In answer to the man's speculation about vampires he instead suggested, "Personally I was guessing one of two things. Someone whose hands are full and therefore cannot open the doors or possibly local guard of some description. Many tend to request access rather than enter, since if they see anything that might force them to actually work it can be a terrible disruption to their day. One avoidable by announcing their entrance first." While whatever distraction might await them could be safely stored out of sight. Not that Lal was familiar with such matters of course.

Keeping half an eye to the innkeeper who still had not clarified her reasons for wanting the priest to linger, of which there were in fact many good and non-sinister reasons to do so, Lal waited for Mordecai to let in whoever was outside.

The hooded figure looked at the woman as she is now showing her full face. "May I ask you why did you take the offer of coming up here and expecting the room to be free without any sort of payment? she asked "The innkeeper was being a bit aloof and it seemed that she was putting you in some sort of danger.

Did you know the agreement she placed upon you?  That you was to say in the room for three hours.

In reply to Chess ala'riina (msg # 78):

Sigismund listened to Chess tell the whole tale. He furled his brows when she was done trying to figure out why she wants the priestess out of the way for three hours.

"She wants her secluded upstairs for three hours? Why, is something going on that she doesn't want her to witness? I'm sorry, I'm too thick to understand this one with what we have got so far."

Turning to Sig "I don't know why. I just find it a bit odd to send her up here for three hours alone. she said "One never knows what can happen to someone once they enter into a inn alone.  I didn't wish anything ill to befallen upon her.

In reply to Chess ala'riina (msg # 80):

"I find it a bit odd too. Whether you want it or not Amaryllis, you are our friend and we worry about you!" He looked around between them all, "what do you want to do?" he asks each of them.

Speaking to Amaryllis
"Additionally the innkeeper's whole demeanour changed when you came up to this room. She appeared to snap out of some form of trance or other influence, as if she was returning to her normal self. So there is something about the whole of this especially as she was charging 5 silver to anyone else, and yet for you, you get the room free on a condition."

In reply to Li Ome (msg # 82):

"Hmm, as I was talking to the wizard, I didn't notice. I suggest we stick together in case something actually is amiss. Let's go back downstairs."

The voice from behind the gates resounded again. This time even louder than before.

"I request permission to enter this establishment"

The innkeeper remained frozen in place, unable to decide what to do.
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:47, Thu 29 Dec 2022.

Mordecai opens the gates to look outside to see who is requesting entrance. If the innkeeper was too afraid to do it, he would take it upon himself to do it for her.

On the other side, a woman in her mid-twenties smiled. Her head was covered by a thin white veil that allowed her face and particularly her deep-green eyes to be visible while still protecting her from the sun. Her long platinum-blonde hair was kept in a non-extravagant but still colorful hairstyle. She was wearing a black choker with a gem in the center. A silver medallion with strange runes hanged freely from her shoulders.

"Thank you," she said with a sweeter and less loud voice "I was beginning to get tired under the sun". She took a step inside the inn and spoke to a still paralyzed innkeeper. "Hello Rummy, I've come for a performance. I hope it's ok."

Mordecai moves to let the blonde woman inside, and he watched as she approached the innkeeper. "Why are you all acting so strangely?" he asked the two women. "What is going on here?"

Amaryllis's green eyes widened as the three of them voiced their worries, but soon she was chuckling. "My friends, I believe there may have been a misunderstanding," she held each of their gazes for a brief moment, warm and sincere, her appreciation obvious. "But I'm very grateful that you would extend your concern to me, a stranger to most of you. Truly. It's not often I see this kind of compassion. Though you are right, Sigismund, we are all safer together, we all have our own purpose we must fulfill." She folded her hands in front of her and bowed, then straightened up and leaned forward, voice softening so as to not be heard from below.

"While I admit I'm not sure why she would specify three hours, I had intended to wait as long as she needed, just as I had fully intended to pay the standard fare for my room." She made a sweeping gesture towards her door as she said this. "I often come across people who are so distraught that they act oddly, desperately, even. Often a loved one is suffering, or something has happened to the temple in town. Sometimes it turns out to be nothing more than the worry that it has been too long between their prayers." Her voice was close to a whisper, almost conspiratorial, as if this was a secret that she shouldn't be sharing outside the sister and brotherhood of the faith. "I'm sure this woman means me no harm. I sense a need from her, a need for my services, not ill will."

Amaryllis was confident in her observations and experience. "Maybe her serving girl or man comes in three hours, and she simply wished to be sure that I would still be here when she is able to leave her work. I'm sure the change you saw was just her tension draining a bit, nothing to worry about." She was giving them another reassuring smile, but just as she said it, a woman's voice rose from below, demanding entrance. Amaryllis frowned. She had seen no lock on the door as she went up, and the inn was bustling with travelers this day, clearly open for business. For the first time, unease seemed to seep into her demeanor. The timing of it all, combined with Rummia's sense of urgency... It could also be that the reason she wished for Amaryllis to stay out of sight and in her room was that there was someone from whom Rummia wished to hide her presence. The cleric had been asked this before when tensions had grown between the people and the temple in a town, or when a lord's abusive grip on a population was so fierce that any outside help had to be hidden lest brutal punishment be meted out. She looked at the group again, trying to smile but clearly a bit subdued compared to her earlier confidence.

"I will return to my quarters. I assure you they were perfectly safe. But—," she glanced at the nearby staircase, pale eyes betraying her rising concern, "—should you have need of me, don't hesitate to come find me." She gave them another bow, then turned around and carefully started heading back toward her room. Despite her attempt to move quietly, she seemed to find all of the creaky floorboards as she moved. She winced, hoping the noise of the room below and the so far calm situation would prevent alerting anyone to her before she could make it back.

13:43, Today: Amaryllis rolled 6 using 1d20-1. Move Silently.
This message was last edited by the player at 05:00, Fri 30 Dec 2022.

The commotion downstairs was such that nobody noticed nor paid attention to the noises upstairs.

The just-arrived woman was perplexed to say the least. "Oh, you must be new to town. I'm not acting strange at all. Though I'm worried about Rummy." She answered to the wizard before moving on to the innkeeper. "Is everything ok? Did I come at an awkward time? I can come back later if you want"

Offering the same polite smile to the newcomer as he had to everyone else Lal glanced between her and the innkeeper as the latter remained silent before eventually shrugging, "I think possibly there's a few more guests that the good host was anticipating today and she's trying to work out how to deal with us all."

"As for performance unless she covers that too I've not seen any entertainment in the building. Were you expecting other people to be here for that?"
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 21:31, Fri 30 Dec 2022.

In reply to Lei (msg # 89):

"Yes, very new," Mordecai nodded, returning to his seat where he could look over the entirety of the bar again. Things were still feeling a bit odd, and he wanted the safety of having the corner behind him should something happen.

"One thing before you go..
You're a follower of Mother if I'm not mistaken in my assessment of the markings on your robes.
So why would an inn keeper want such a follower to hide in an upstairs room for 3 hours? Unless she was expecting somebody who holds views which are the antithesis of your own.
In such a case are you not doing your Goddess a disservice by hiding like a scared child. Do you not strive to uphold your beliefs no matter what the consequences?"

Sigismund goes back down the stairs. He sees the woman and the hairs on his neck stand up at her mere presence. He sees the wizard again, but goes back to his beer, no longer wishing to engage anyone. He had failed to interest a single soul. He would travel to a larger town on the morrow and look for good companions. He'd thought he found a few here, but not so.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:49, Sun 01 Jan 2023.

It seemed that the young human woman was alright and there was no need to make any more of a fuss over something till she had the facet of it all.  Giving her a nod as she turned herself and looked to Sig as he was making his way back downstairs and it was just the two in the hall way.

Listening to Li give such a sweet chastise to the priestess about disfavoring her Goddess.  Its sort of brought a smirk to her face for she cared very little of the human gods for they surely didn't aid the Elven Gods in any way.

Amaryllis turned back to the three in time to see Sigismund head back downstairs, facing Li as she stopped her retreat. It was a fair question and not an uncommon assumption, even if it had been phrased in a way that showed disdain for her perceived cowardice. Amaryllis gave Li a bow of her head, her face now tinted by sadness. Still striving to keep her voice low, she replied, "There is such a thing as too grave a consequence... I am a vessel for the Mother. My purpose is to shield the people from harm and give them the sustenance and refuge they need. I can do neither of those things if my very presence would be what brings them that harm. But the Mother is wise and patient, and she will bring light to all when the moment is right. I promise I shall see things to the end."

She bowed once more, and her apologetic smile was softer this time. "I am sorry if this method disappoints you. Should danger arise despite my attempt to prevent it, I will make haste to join you." And she would. There was a conviction to everything she had said, even as she apologized to the other woman. As she turned back to her door and opened it, she considered if she should perhaps change into normal traveling clothes and see what was happening below... But then the innkeeper had never stated directly why she needed her up in a room, it was all just guesswork on Amaryllis and the others' behalf. Until she spoke to Rummia directly, her sudden change in behavior would remain a mystery.

She sighed as she once again shut the door to her room, wondering what kind of trouble she had brought to the town this time.

With nothin further to be gained Li returns downstairs to the table she vacated earlier.

Sigismund, when he empties his beer, orders another. He keeps his eye on the woman. He also keeps his eye on the room. There might still be a chance to get together with a small group for safety. At least while traveling.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:02, Tue 10 Jan 2023.

The woman smiled back, then continued to show confusion. "Odd, the place doesn't look as packed." Her expression changed to concern. "What is going on? What are you hiding Rummy?"

Meanwhile, upstairs Amaryllis noticed a very strong smell of garlic to the point it was getting nauseating.