Tales of Luxaria (IC)

[mrblah]

Elisa was once more back on track to her destination, not doing much of anything as they continued down the road. It didn't take long for her to get bored once more after departing the human camp, and she found herself hoping to suddenly and magically transport to her destination. Of course, the odds of that happening were borderline impossible.

But apparently not the odds of another encounter down the road, says the shouting coming from her left. She had her horse quicken it's pace, quickly arriving at the scene of the crime... a bunch of idiots somehow managed to get their cargo in the mud. She took a cursory glance around the area, curious as to how exactly they had came to such a situation. Were they just really incompetent?

She turned her attention back to them and considered assisting, before she ultimately decided against it. She didn't feel like getting dirty while trying to help a bunch of fools who probably don't know how to drive. Elisa shrugged with an amused smirk and continued onwards, her loyal friend Lulu following her, naturally.

[RavenLord]

Letting the golem get away didn't sit well with Max. Yet she had neither capability to chase it or time to track it down. She would have to deal with that after princess was safe and her mission over. Hopefully it wouldn't return and cause any damage people of the land by then.

Returning to road, Max tried to make up for the time lost. Xie remained silent which suited Max fine enough. She really wasn't in mood for the witch's acidic remarks and provocations.

It was much to her luck that she came across fellow knights on the road. "Well met fellow knights." she greeted them from atop her horse.

[Mark3000]

(I'll update Firehead/Kurth once Nobudi posts since you're both competing on the same Mission)

Elisa Laveau:

Spoiler (click to show/hide):

Continuing past the Mud drenched travelers, you make your way to the port. Lulu follows behind you giving a happy yelp.

As the sun slowly sets behind the horizon, you see White Swallow Port along the coastline. You remember hearing that the port got it's name from the white walls that protect the inner section on the city. Outside were an assortment of small farms, cottages and storehouses. The Cloud Burst Inn is suppose to be located inside the city walls. But if you wanted to start your search now nothing was stopping you. There were still a few people moving about before the sun set.

Maximillian von Hohensarch

Spoiler (click to show/hide):

The caravan stops to greet you. The head rider, a handsome young man in full plate armor rides up to you. "Well Met! It's good to see a friendly face so far from base" He says with a joyous voice. "My name is Bartholomew De Torino the Third. Me and my compatriots were on the hunt for bandits. In particular a rogue by the name of Hawk. What brings you out this far?"

[mrblah]

Elisa smiled, pleased to have finally reached her destination. She looked around at all the sights as she moved further down the road into White Swallow proper, glancing at the storehouses and the farms. She wouldn't expect a princess to be hiding in any of them, but were she as smart as Elisa was herself, then perhaps she would, unless there wasn't a better option. Her boss hadn't given her anything to help track her target down, but she was sure she could figure something out with Lulu's help. Bloodhounds are truly some amazing trackers, after all.

First; she should consider her methods. Elisa recalled that her boss had mentioned her target having an 'entourage', so she should look for a big suspicious group focused around a singular person. She could ask around and hope for the best (which, if this princess wasn't smart enough to hide herself, would be effective), have Lulu snoop around for any scent unlike the rest of the area's, or maybe something more drastic like cause a panic and see who runs. That last option was barbaric, so she'd rather not. She could also go to the inn. That'd be a safe place to start her search, if she didn't feel like asking random people on the street.

The Dhampir made up her mind. "Lulu, make sure to stay alert for anything that smelled out of place." She said, speaking to her faithful bloodhound. She'll head to the inn and start her search there. Maybe get a drink, maybe have a little fun... but not too much fun, of course. Gotta be professional.

[RavenLord]

"I am on a mission to find one of remaining members of the royal family and bring them to safety, as such, i fear i can't tarry. But before i go, i have a request. Some ways back on this road i have encountered a large golem made of bones. I was able to damage the construct heavily but it fled before i could destroy it. The thing is very aggressive and i fear it may return and hurt other people. Please look into it if you are heading down this way or failing that, pass the word to the headquarters so they may send someone else. Now, i hope you will forgive my rudeness but i must take my leave. Farewell and may fortune be with you."

After giving a quick salute to sir Torino and his men, Max turned her attention back onto road. Worry ate at her, only held at bay by iron self-disicipline. Regardless the knight found herself riding faster while praying that she would be able to reach princess Caledonia in time.

[Mark3000]

Elisa Laveau

Spoiler (click to show/hide):

Perception Check [Lulu, WIS, Impossible]: 19 + 2 + 2 (Rank 2: Perception) = 23, Success!
(GM Note: .... Wow.)

As you walk into the city, Lulu stops to raise her snout to the air. Despite all the people, animals and products that have passed by, the bloodhound picks up a scent. As you leave for the inn, your furry companion begins to sniffing around to track the scent. Mainly towards the eastern side of the outer city.

You reach the Cloud Burst Inn and enter passing by a few patrons. Being a port town, the humble abode seemed to house a variety of characters. There were a few spots open at the bar. Their is one spot in particular besides a rather unsavory looking man. He fit the description you were given for your contact, Hawk (http://danbooru.donmai.us/posts/2603228).

Maximillian von Hohensarch

Spoiler (click to show/hide):

"Understood" Bartholomew said giving you a salute. "We will be sure to eliminate the golem should we cross paths. All the best to you" He says as him and his company depart. In the confusion, you notice that Xie and her demon companion have slipped from your cart and run off. They must have used the confusion to escape. But you didn't have time to chase after the sea witch. You needed to make your way to White Swallow Port.

You reach the city just as the sun drops. Riding into the outer section of the city, you see the odd person out returning home. There were even a few animals that seemed to be just milling about. The Cloud Burst Inn was located behind the white city walls that the port was named for. There all you would have to do is find Sparrow and have him lead you to the princess.

Kurth Fleetfoot:

Spoiler (click to show/hide):

(GM Note: Nobudi will post in a couple of days. So to keep you going here.)

One of the guards leave most likely to retrieve Servia. The other remains as she pulls back her spear. "I've hear of the Crimson Marauders. The rumors are ... Interesting. But I'm willing to work with anyone who will help free the beastfolk from Jörmungandr lies!" the second guard says with a stern conviction.

"I'm pleased to hear that Alicia" Turning around, the guard bows as a beautiful Lamia slithers towards you ( http://danbooru.donmai.us/posts/1351655 ). The only thing more striking then her gold trimmings was her lack of a top. "You must be Kurth. Welcome to our camp. Order of Ouroboros welcomes you. How was your Journey?

[Firehead]

Kurth lowered his arms as both guards lowered their spears waiting patiently with one though he'd have much preferred to being escorted to somewhere he could wait for her in comfort, but he held his tongue not wanting to start any trouble. He found himself curious just what kinds of rumors she'd been hearing about them, especially ones that might make working with him distasteful to the snake. Before he could ask any questions though, his host made her arrival. He couldn't help but notice the bold choice of dress.

Bringing his eyes back to her face, Kurth gave a slight bow. "That is who I am, and you must be Servia. My trip wasn't too stressful aside from a run-in with a feral not far from town. Considering the emblem on what remained of his clothes and the ring of teeth marks around his tail, I take it he was one of yours though I only figured that much after I put him down for good." He gave her a slightly sympathetic look not entirely sure how close-knit this group was it was best to assume they'd have some regret of losing someone. "I am a little stiff from the road though, so if we could discuss the full details of the job somewhere a little more comfortable."

[mrblah]

She was pleasantly surprised by Lulu managing to find something immediately after entering the port, but she still had to contact their contact. Elisa's demeanor changed almost entirely, going from pleasant and playful to cold and stern. She nodded, giving the "go solo" signal to her companion. When he finds whatever is of interest, he'll howl to get her attention. Her faithful bloodhound went off on his own, and she was sure he'd be fine. This wasn't his first nor last time tracking solo, although she'd prefer to be with him whenever possible.

Elisa continued on her way, eventually making it to Cloud Burst Inn. She got off her horse and secured it, making sure it'd go nowhere without her. White Swallow didn't look the type to have thieves running around, but it'd be stupid to let her guard down even so. Times are tough, and her line of work makes times tougher. She knows that. Regardless, she walked into the inn, not bothering to do her usual flirting with the many patrons there. She gave not even a smile as she walked up to the man she believed to be the contact.

She sat down next to him, but didn't order a drink. No time. "I've already picked up on something; so let's make this quick. You're my contact?" She flashed him a smile. "Hawk, right?"

[Nobudi]

Elenier wasn't quite sure how to feel about the lack of thrilling or dangerous encounters. At least the treacherous whispers no longer reached her ears for the time being. It was a relief to see the walls of the Temple City come into view. There was a sense of safety, at least for now.

Drawing her hood up and folding her wings around her body and beneath her cloak, she dismounted her horse, and began to walk the streets, taking in the sounds and sights and smells. In another time, another life, this would have brought her unbridled joy. Now, it was tainted with a bitterness. Afterwards, she began to make her way to the temple. Might as well meet the Counsel now.

[RavenLord]

Maximillian was not surprised by Xie's disappearance. It worried her, the damage that witch could cause without anyone to supervise her and it was a failing on her part that she was able to escape. Yet the knight couldn't deny that she felt relieved now that demon lover was gone. Guess Max would have to track her and bring her to justice after her mission was done.

Turning her attention to task at hand, Max rode towards Cloud Burst Inn. She left her horse secured at the inn's stables before taking a cloak out from one of her saddle bags. Using it to cover the distinctive armor she was wearing, Max entered the inn ready and alert, her eyes searching for anyone that is fitting the description of Sparrow, her contact. Time was of the essence. Every second gone was a second Lady Caledonia risked being found out by the enemy.

[Mark3000]

Kurth Fleetfoot

Spoiler (click to show/hide):

Servia seemed saddened to hear this. "It's such a shame when someone close to our family turns. You have done us a service ending his suffering. But come, let us discuss the details of the job in my private quarters" The half nude lamia says leading you deeper into the camp.

The camp is mainly made up of small tents and makeshift huts. The kind that could be easily dismantled and moved on a moment's notice. Most of the cultists were either studying strange texts or performing menial tasks. It seemed those who had bite marks on their tail were in charge of those without. Looking to Servia, you could see her own tail was bandaged.

You soon reach Servia's tent. She lets you in as you find it filled with various scrolls and fortune telling items. Preparing a small cushion for you to sit, Servia curls up and sits across from you. "Our order needs your assistance acquiring a jewel from one of Jörmungandr's Temples." She says as she hands you a map and a drawing of what looks like a purple cat's eye jewel.

"I'm not sure how much you know about the Origins of the Heavenly Beasts but in the Snakeskin Scripts speak of Jörmungandr and her sister Ouroboros. While Jörmungandr obtained the power of the Divine Tree, Ouroboros was left to crawl on the earth like a common beast. While Jörmungandr gifted her and others her power to become the first Beastfolk, they weren't meant to have free will. We were to be servants. Ouroboros saw this and attempted to free us from Jörmungandr's bondage. Her rebellion failed but instead of being killed, Jörmungandr sealed Ouroboros for all eternity. But her words live on and with this gem, we can free her from captivity."

"This Map will give you a detailed layout of the temple the gem is held. The temple is heavily guarded with guards and shamans patrolling the grounds. There is one main entrance into the temple. The rear of the facility is protected by a river and small cliff."

Eleneir the Dragon Mage:

Spoiler (click to show/hide):

As you walk through the city, you are surprised to see the high number of reptilian beastfolk. Alongside them are a number of Dhampir walking the city streets as well. The atmosphere of the city was a jovial one as random people greet you on the roadway.

With the help of one of the guards, you are lead to the main temple at the centre of the city. The large ziggurat stood tall as a raging river flowed behind it. At the entrance you are meet by a laima with a noble aura around her ( http://danbooru.donmai.us/posts/1342623 ). "Are you from the Starlight Knight?." The snakewoman said as she slithered towards you. With a bow, she greets you. "I am Lila, Jörmungandr's representative from the Council of Fangs. I was the one who had requested your aid. Would you follow inside?" She asked reaching out her hand.

As you walk through the temple, Lila begins to speak. “The Order of Ouroboros has long sought to undermine Jörmungandr and her followers. They present themselves as freedom fighters. But in truth they are heretics with little sense of decency. They seek to release Ouroboros the Usurper into the world. And I fear with this jewel it would be a trivial task.”

Elisa Laveau

Spoiler (click to show/hide):

Lulu: Tracking Roll [WIS, Difficult] 16 + 2 + 4(Rank 1: Tracking) = 22, Pass

The Bloodhound was on the trail of the scent. He followed it until he reached three small houses towards the far east side of the port town. The flowery scent could be smelled in all three houses.

Meanwhile at the inn, Hawk took a swig from his mug. “All business, that’s good. Yea I’m Hawk. I’ve been trailing the girl for a while. She’s in the outer city. There are just two problems. One is she is constantly changing her hideout. And second, she has a scary looking Bow knight protecting her. He stands out like a sore thumb and looks like a real handful. But the two of us should be able to take him out.” Hawk said as he took out a cigarette. “I was going to suggest that we check out her last hideout. But if you got something, lead the way”

Maximillian von Hohensarch

Spoiler (click to show/hide):

Search Roll [WIS, Freeform]: 13 + 4 (WIS) = 17

Freeform Rolls: (Instead of having a set difficulty, this kind of roll can have multiple results depending on how high you roll. The higher you roll, the better the results.)

It doesn’t take long to spot Sparrow sitting alone in the corner of the dining room. He appeared to be a farm hand a few years younger than yourself. He seemed nervous, continually looking out the window as if looking for someone. Though you shouldn’t be surprised, the inn was filled with unsavory characters.

[Firehead]

"Yes, that will be fine." He followed along looking over the people in the camp. It was clearly meant to be mobile which it would have to be considering how small and close they were to the church of Jörmungandr. He noticed more people with bites on their tails, but some lacked it probably the equivalent of acolytes still undergoing training. Servia's own tail was bandaged. Had she only received the mark recently? If so why would she be dealing hiring mercenaries to infiltrate their enemy? Ehh, there was probably no point to puzzling it out. Focus on the mission.

Once they reached her tent he took the offered seat and picked up the drawing of the gem looking it over carefully. If things didn't go perfectly he might not have time to pull out the sketch for comparison, so he needed to memorize what it looked like carefully. "I was always too distracted by too many things to study scripture properly". Still, their explanation seemed a bit far-fetched. If Ouroboros rebelled to set them free and was thwarted, wouldn't that mean they were still bound? Whatever, he was here to do a job, not debate theology.

Done with the drawing he turned to the map. He'd want to have that with him but picking out his entry point would be important. He looked toward the back side to get a better idea of how things were set up. In what way was the river protecting the back? "Rivers and cliffs don't say anything when intruders are about though, and if they're confident in that protection the back is probably lightly guarded. How 'small' is this cliff?"

[Voff]

With a growl from deep within Fenrir the Bear strikes out with his Bear Claws with all his remaining stamina to shred the Void horror to pieces. The fear the creature showed inflicted no pity in either the man or the beast in him. Demons were there to be destroyed. They were destroying his his world. They destroyed his home. They killed... He would defeat them.

[mrblah]

Outwardly, Elisa appeared calm as she considered this information. But on the inside, she was a slight bit worried to hear mention of possible opposition. Not for herself of course, but for the scouting dog she had sent ahead to check out a scent he picked up on. If it's what she's hoping it is... then Lulu might encounter some trouble. She knows he can handle himself well, but a trained knight simply would be too much for the canine on his lonesome.

She gave the man a nod before she replied, "I'm in a bit of a hurry, so we're going to have to move quick." She didn't waste any time getting up and turning around in the direction of the exit, before walking towards it. "I sent a companion of mine ahead and he might not be able to handle this knight, if he's really found our target... and just out of curiosity's sake, how does this girl look?"

Meanwhile, a certain bloodhound was attempting to puzzle out the confusing information the scent was giving him. He was smart enough to understand that they were tracking an intelligent life form on some base level; but the trail having three different sources suggests otherwise. Maybe the flowery scent really was just flowers? Maybe their were three different targets? Either way, the canine knew what he had to do. Lulu turned around and moved away from the apparent location of the target, seeking to put some distance between them as he was trained to do, before he let out a howl from a distance his master maybe would consider far enough to not have alerted the target.

[RavenLord]

Max calmly made her way towards Sparrow, taking a seat across him. Before Sparrow got a chance to talk, Max took out brooch Eshter had given him, making sure no one but Sparrow got a glimpse of it before swiftly returning it back to its safe place under her armor.

"Sparrow i presume? My name is Max and i am here to help."

[Mark3000]

Kurth Fleetfoot

Temple Map:

Spoiler (click to show/hide):

Temple Map.jpg (186.99 KiB) Viewed 1774 times

Spoiler (click to show/hide):

Servia hums as you begin to formulate a plan. "I had a few of my people scope it out. Its about a 30 foot climb. The cliff is steep but there seemed to be enough footing. It should take you to the west side of the second floor." She says pointing to the map. "The jewel should be at the highest point of the temple. We don't have exact numbers but the guard detail increased with each floor."

As she talks Servia slithers around you getting closer until her shoulder touches yours. "It seems you are confused about our ways. After the mission, I can teach you of Ouroboros' blessings." She said in a hushed whisper.

Fenrir Ursa:

Spoiler (click to show/hide):

The lifeless form of the void horrors fall to the ground. Their motionless bodies disintegrate into black smoke leaving nothing but black ash.

With no further distractions, you make way to your way to the Temple City of Jörmungandr. A reptilian guards stops you at the gate. "Are you with the Starlight Knights?
Councillor Lila is expecting your arrival. Follow me." He says as he leads you to the temple.

Soon enough, you find yourself escorted to a room with two beastfolk. A lamia and a dragon. "Ah! you must be with the Starlight Knights as well. I was just discussing the details of the mission with Eleneir. I'm Lila" The Lamia said with authority.

Elisa Laveau & Maximillian von Hohensarch

Spoiler (click to show/hide):

Hawk lays a few coins on the counter before he and Elisa leave. "Well her most striking feature was her long golden hair. But when I was inspecting their last hideout, I found this". The marauder pulled out a pile of long blonde hair. "The girl's probably in disguise now. But if your bloodhound is as good as you say. He might be able to get the scent."

It isn't long until you both hear Lulu's howling. When the the three of you meet, Hawk knells down and rubs the dog's ears. Pulling out the strands of hair, he lays them out in front of the bloodhound.

Lulu: Tracking Roll [WIS, Average]: 14+2 =16.

With the strains of hair as a final clue, Lulu can finally pinpoint the princess's location. The flowery scent on the hair matched the one coming from the far left house of the three it found.

______________________________________

Meanwhile back at the inn. Sparrow gave an astonished look when he saw the brooch. "T-that's a real royal heirloom. So you really are here to help." He said with a sigh of relief. " Here, I'll take you to the princess." He says as escorts Max outside to a small path in the bushes. "The knight, Lancer said to use this path once help arrived". When you hear the name of Caledonia's protector, a wave of relief washes over you. Lancer was one of the Royal Families most trusted knights. He is the quiet type, but also an accomplished archer.

Between the city walls and a large section of bushes, Max and Sparrow move to the outer section of the city.

Elisa Perception Roll [Wis]: 9 + 4 = 13
Maximillian Stealth Roll [Dex] 5 - 1 = 4

As Maximillian walks through the hidden path, her armor and heavy footsteps caused a bit of noise. Just enough for Elisa to pick up on.

[mrblah]

When they regrouped with Lulu, Elisa quickly checked around the bloodhound, making sure he was unharmed. She was happy to know that he wasn't. Had he been injured due to her orders, she'd first murder the bastard who hurt him, and then feel bad for directing him to said bastard.

Lulu pointed with his head towards the left house, his veteran tracker nose seeming to tell no lies. The Dhampir once more gave the dog a pat on his head, a proud smirk on her face. What would she do without him? "Well, she's in there. We can circle around from behind and pincer them, or we can always camp out a bit to see -" She cut herself off, raising a single finger to pause any form of response from either her canine friend or her co-worker with a suspicious expression. She swore she had...

Elisa turned her head in the direction of the sound, pulling out her bow and quickly notching an arrow. She hadn't intended to fire and blow their cover, but there's a chance they were noticed first. She crouched down, her bloodhound following suit and hiding behind a nearby bush. The sound of footsteps. Heavy armor. They hadn't stopped, so it's safe to assume they hadn't noticed either herself, Lulu, or Hawk. "We're not alone. Heavy armor, probably a knight. If you've got no plans, then I think I've got something." She whispered to Hawk.

[RavenLord]

Max followed after Sparrow. It seemed like she had found the princess first yet the knight remained on guard still, ready to explode into action on a moment's notice. She had lost to many comrades to know that the price of laxity was a steep one. Hopefully nothing would go wrong and she would be back at the starlight HQ with princess Caledonia and Sir Lancer. And if things did go wrong, well, there was a reason Max had been one of the few knights that survived the fall of Alto. Come hell or highwater, she would see lady Caledonia reunited with her sister.

[Mark3000]

Elisa Laveau & Maximillian von Hohensarch

Spoiler (click to show/hide):

Elisa Stealth Roll [DEX]: 3 + 5 = 8 (Roll 8 + to detect Elisa)

Elisa, Lulu and Hawk hid in the bushes as the heavy footsteps pass by. "Those are some ears you have Elisa" Hawk whispers as you all hide. When you mention a plan, Hawk nods. "What do you have in mind?"

____________________

Maximillian Detection Roll [WIS]: 12 + 4 =16

Just as you travel down this hidden path, you notice a rustling just across the road. You can't get a good look at who ever was hiding. But now you knew you weren't alone.

Sparrow and Max travel through the bushes until you reach the backdoor. With a few quick taps, you hear a regal voice. "Do the stars ever set?" he asks. It was a common code line between Royal Knights. Sparrow paused for a moment until answering. "They don't, they shine for the royal line." He says matching the phrase."

The door open to reveal a large man in thick armor ( http://danbooru.donmai.us/posts/2622952 ). "Dame Maximillian. Well Met." Lancer said as he gave you a salute. "Please come in quickly" He said as he guided you in. In front of the fireplace you see a young woman with short hair in a simple dress. It's not until she turns to you that you realize it's the princess ( https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/73 ... awings.jpg ). "Are you with the Starlight Knights? Pray tell, have you heard word from my sisters Esther or Olivia?" She said rushing towards you. Caledonia in her haste trips almost falling to the ground. Luckily Lancer is there to catch her.

Looking down, you see bandages wrapped around her ankle "I know you're worried Princess. But you have to be careful. You're still hurt. Dame Maximillian, would you be able to leave tonight?" He asks.

[mrblah]

She almost swore as they passed into the house. This both confirms that this other group is there to protect their target, and it complicates their job. Time was running out, she probably didn't have the time to explain her plan in detail. Still... she gestured her bloodhound over to her, whispering something in his ear. Lulu, in response, simply moved away from the duo to a different hiding spot, still close enough to hear any other orders his master has.

"Are you any good at acting? This is going to be a rush job, but I'm basically going to need you to molest me." As Elisa said this, she had already thrown her bow and arrows over to her canine friend. "Step one; we draw them out. Step two; I sneak over to the princess and hold her hostage while you distract her guards. Step three; whatever happens next. Step four; profit." She moved her hand to her eye, holding them open with one hand and fanning them with the other. If she wants to put up a convincing act, she'll need to fake distress. Crying's one easy way to do that.