The Northmarches (IC)

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The Northmarches (IC)

Postby Ze Blitzkrieg » Sun Oct 17, 2021 2:21 am

Though it is only early autumn in the Northmarches, a chill already falls over Esterwyn as the sun begins to dip down towards the horizon. As the light retreats from the sky, so too do the inhabitants retreat from their crofts and workshops to join with their fellows and families within the safety of the town's high palisade walls. The town, the only of its kind for several dozen miles in any direction, stands as a beacon for all those who find themselves on the lengthy stretches of rolling wilderness that are Andova's northernmost province. The patchwork of fields and pastures that feeds into the town grows thicker as one approachs from the south or east, a testament to the working folk who labor to maintain their way of way on the harsh frontier. To the north, the Frostback mountains loom heavy, the flat lands growing hilly and wild as they stretched towards the rocky barriers which had undoubtedly halted the advance of settlers in the region. To the west, just over the town's local river, a dense thicket of forest, largely untouched, stands just as ominous; centuries old oaths with the native fey ensure even Andovan expansionism has no place beyond the waterfront.

Despite its isolation, Esterwyn's place at the edge of the world proves to be one of its most attractive features. All sorts of people, from optimistic settlers to daring adventures come from every corner of the empire, to establish homes and reputations alike. As cook fires blanket the crisp air around town with the sweet smell of cedar, many of these new faces find their ways home...

PoVs

Crosses the River (Mashugana)
Spoiler (click to show/hide):

You had known of Esterwyn's existence for quite some time. With how few genuine towns there are in the north, it's hard not to remember their names, usually brought to the tribe by the odd trader looking for pelts, or the scouts like yourself. But hearing and seeing are entirely different matters; you can't recall witnessing so many people gathered into one place at one time. It's hard to tell in exact numbers, but there must be thousands of people packed into the perimeter walls, to say nothing of those who live outside the walls in hamlets and villages that you're more familiar with. It's hard to believe this is considered to be insignificant compared to the proper cities much further south, where tens to hundreds of thousands live together. Joining the flow of crofters and herdsmen as they file their way through the gates, you find yourself swept up in the hustle and bustle of this strange new place. The roads are lined with homes and businesses, people going in and out with arms full of this good or that, each with their own purposes and agendas.

You can't help but wonder how well your own people would adapt to this kind of life, separated from the wilds that sustained them by nothing more than a few sharpened logs, yet so fundamentally changed by that separation. It's something you don't exactly have time to think on for too long, as you soon feel a series of taps on your back. Turning to face the source would reveal a blonde woman, her messy golden locks pulled back into a ponytail so that only her bangs framed her face. Tamed as it is, the mane does little to hide the pointed ears that poke prominently out from her head: it seems she's an elf, although the fact that she isn't taller than you, along with her more rounded facial features makes you think her elven ancestry might be diluted by some humanity. She gives you a friendly smile, her green eyes glimmering in the dying sunlight.

"You look lost. New in town?" She asks innocently enough.


Raagen Morcaryn (kermitphrogg)
Spoiler (click to show/hide):

Your journey to the Northmarches was certainly a wake up call, if your previous forays into adventuring work had not been; the isolation of the region meant that you had to spend many a night sleeping rough on the roads leading north, which only became less and less well maintained as you got further out. The occasional roadside inn or accommodating homesteader gave you reprieve from the worst of the elements here and there, but never enough to make the sight of Esterwyn anything less than a blessing. Hurriedly along by the thought of a nice, soft bed to sleep in under a warm roof, the silhouette of the town only grew and grew as the sun shrunk, your arrival coinciding with sundown. The town itself is rather populous for somewhere so far beyond civilization, dashing any hopes that you would find respite and solitude away from the more populated regions of the empire. Not that you would have had the opportunity even if Esterwyn proved itself to be a charming little outpost, as your mission to track down an old family friend was the entire purpose for visiting such an inhospitable land.

It was a miracle you had even managed to track him to Esterwyn. The man did not make himself easy to find, with only a stray rumor from some previous companions that he had headed north a year or two ago on business and not returned south since. Finding him here at the edge of the world would be difficult, especially with how rangers tended to be in regions of vast wilderness. Still, concerns for his whereabouts would have to come later. For now, you had to figure out where you would be lodging. Any town of relative size had several inns and taverns, but asking a few questions among the locals always circled back to one in particular: The Laughing Bull. It was the largest and best known, apparently built early in the town's history by an adventurer who had helped in its foundation.

Indeed, as you navigate your way to the town's main market square, it sits imposingly to the south east, a looming four story building of stone and timber. Locals filtering in for a night of merriment. Popular as it is, perhaps it would serve both your purposes, a source of information and comfort.


Lula Bucker (LazyKitsune)
Spoiler (click to show/hide):

There's some exhilarating about the north that has made the long journey through its rolling hills and dense forests seem to fly by. Every day you're met with new scenic vistas, witness new wildlife, and occasionally meet interesting strangers: you had never so much as seen an actual bear living back with your mother, but just two days prior you had met two bearmen on the way to Esterwyn! It had been several weeks since setting sail for one of the empire's most remote towns, all in the hopes of tracking down one of your father's supposed associates; Amara Blackthorn. By your estimations, the town itself was only a day or two away now, and the thought of finally arriving at a new port only set your feet into a frenzy as you traveled the worn dirt roads that were the Northmarches' arteries. As the sun began to sink down behind the far off horizon, though, it became obvious that you likely wouldn't reach town before nightfall.

Living on the road was no issue for an adventurer such as yourself, however, and so instead of bemoaning the flow of time, the item of the hour became finding a good place to camp out for the night. If you had a sharp eye, you could find the occasional bend in the road that offered good protection from the elements, or a nice little patch of woodlands to hunker down in for a night. Then you could set up a fire, get some grub, and huddle in for a good night's rest. Of course, there was little reason to make your own camp when you came across another on the road, and lo-and-behold, such a camp was just off in the distance! In the growing twilight, it was easy enough to spot a campfire crackling among the mostly empty meadows that straddled either side of the road. It seemed the inhabitants even had the sense to set up their camp against one of the cairns that dotted these rural northern roads, the stacked stones acting as a windbreak to keep the chill at bay.

There was always the option to go at it alone, but who could resist dropping anchor and getting to know some of the locals? Besides, the road was lonely enough without a crew to call your own.


Penelope Delights (Mark3000)
Spoiler (click to show/hide):

The arrival of your party at Esterwyn brought with it a massive sense of relief. You volunteered to join the group of eight men from the Fangs who were assigned a task in the region, to assist a client in spelunking some old, druidic ruins off in the woods near town. It was your first real assignment, a proper job where you could show off your skills and prove yourself to the men of the company that you were more than just a pair of tits with a few holes to fill. Of course, this meant traveling through the wilds with those same men for at least a week, and they had not made your life easy. Between the raunchy remarks, the occasional slaps on the ass and at least one incident involving a suspiciously creamy bowl of stew, the harassment had become nearly unbearable. Now in town, you would have an opportunity to break from the group for some privacy and a much needed respite from their remarks before the job began in earnest.

The leader of your company was a man not much older than yourself, Arden Greenfeld, himself a son of one of the company's lieutenants. Unlike yourself, his mother wasn't a camp follower, and so he was afforded much more respect; enough respect that he was given seniority over yourself and the others, something he had not let you forget since leaving camp. The smug, sandy blond bastard had decided the company would be lodging at the town's finest inn, a towering building called The Laughing Bull. As your rowdy companions filed in through the door, you're met with the familiar sight of a well-kept tavern. The common room is rather expansive, built from finely cut stone that helps keep the heat from the roaring hearth in its center from leaking out. Long tables line the walls, and smaller, rounder ones dot the center, many of them filled with townsfolk and others with the rougher sort like yourself. There's a long bar along the eastern wall, which empties back into what must be a kitchen, based off the lovely smells wafting from the open door. A rather tall brunette mans the counter, the horns jutting from her forehead and her large stature marking her as a Minos, although she sports the softer build of one who hasn't lived the life of a tribal in quite some time, if ever.

"Go talk with your fellow cow and get us something to drink," Jeers Arden over the merriment of the patrons, a familiar hand coming to clap you across the ass. "Else we might have to find something else to drink from."


Eliza Asara (Lorielle)
Spoiler (click to show/hide):

The Northmarches, in their remoteness, proved themselves to be an adequate test of your faith. You had spent many a night sleeping rough on the roads that connected what little civilization there was on the frontier, all on your journey to the town of Esterwyn, where you could begin in earnest the your quest for the Crown. Its whereabouts were largely unknown, its last possessor having gone missing out in the wilds decades prior to your initiation. Tracking its location and winning it back from whatever fate befell its owner would put your knightly virtues to the test, and the ability to finally prove yourself every bit the paladin as your fellows gave you heart even in the face of another cold night. As daylight began to fade, your journey was cut short an hour or so before normal. Not by fatigue, in the case of some nights, but by a cry of distress.

The source didn't seem especially far off, and as you hurry down the path and round a hilly bend in the trail, you come upon it in the fading light of the evening. A carriage sits upon the road, the horses that once pulled it dashing off into the horizon. They leave in their wake smaller, but much more dangerous, several large wolves circling the wagon. Perched precariously atop it must be the rider, a small green woman by the looks of things, who swats ineffectually at her attackers with what must be a broom. She yelps as one of the predators heft itself up on its hind legs and plants its forelimbs against the side, rocking the entire vehicle back and forth as it snarls at the would-be prey atop it. It's incredibly unusual for wolves to be so aggressive towards travelers, diminutive size or not, but the circumstances don't change a thing: this woman is in mortal peril, and you're the only soul around to help!
Last edited by Ze Blitzkrieg on Sun Oct 17, 2021 8:23 am, edited 2 times in total.
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Re: The Northmarches (IC)

Postby Lorielle » Sun Oct 17, 2021 4:29 am

Spoiler (click to show/hide):

The Northmarches, in their remoteness, proved themselves to be an adequate test of your faith. You had spent many a night sleeping rough on the roads that connected what little civilization there was on the frontier, all on your journey to the town of Esterwyn, where you could begin in earnest the your quest for the Crown. Its whereabouts were largely unknown, its last possessor having gone missing out in the wilds decades prior to your initiation. Tracking its location and winning it back from whatever fate befell its owner would put your knightly virtues to the test, and the ability to finally prove yourself every bit the paladin as your fellows gave you heart even in the face of another cold night. As daylight began to fade, your journey was cut short an hour or so before normal. Not by fatigue, in the case of some nights, but by a cry of distress.

The source didn't seem especially far off, and as you hurry down the path and round a hilly bend in the trail, you come upon it in the fading light of the evening. A carriage sits upon the road, the horses that once pulled it dashing off into the horizon. They leave in their wake smaller, but much more dangerous, several large wolves circling the wagon. Perched precariously atop it must be the rider, a small green woman by the looks of things, who swats ineffectually at her attackers with what must be a broom. She yelps as one of the predators heft itself up on its hind legs and plants its forelimbs against the side, rocking the entire vehicle back and forth as it snarls at the would-be prey atop it. It's incredibly unusual for wolves to be so aggressive towards travelers, diminutive size or not, but the circumstances don't change a thing: this woman is in mortal peril, and you're the only soul around to help!


The journey here had honestly been rougher than Eliza was expecting, it wasn't something she couldnt handle of course, but different, challenging in a way she had not expected. After having spent years in the care of others, the communal attachment she felt to her order was something else, everyone contributing something to life at the monastery. Now that she was out here, stuck doing everything herself. It weighed on her, how... lonely this journey was to be and how she must confront her faith alone at the end of all things. This feeling was in equal parts energizing and despairing. The unknown had stretched out before her and all she needed to do was take that leap.

All of this introspection was cut short though by the far off wail of someone in need. Like a dinner bell had been rung in more ways that one. Quickly scrambling for her halberd Eliza makes her way towards the sound with as much haste as possible. Only to encounter a sight she had not expected in the least. A typical looking wagon by Eliza's account, but the small green woman and the fact there were wolves attacking her were another. She'd rarely seen goblins, but only know them to be sly, but to have an intelligence of their own.

'A traveler perhaps?' she thinks to herself before leaping out from behind the tree she had found herself at. Wolves werent animals to be trifled with, especially in their packs. She tried to strike at the one who attempted to rock the wagon, hoping the goblin would keep the wolves occupied as she thinned the herd first.
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Re: The Northmarches (IC)

Postby Mashugana » Sun Oct 17, 2021 6:39 am

Shameful as it was to admit, Crosses the River would find Esterwyn rather overwhelming for his senses. It was one thing to "know" of cities, with their masses of people and buildings, and all the hustle and bustle and business and noise, but to be in the midst of one was like being caught in a stampede of buffalo, or submerged in a pond full of fish, each a different color from the other, and all swimming in ways that seemed chaotic to the tribesman. He didn't even register the first few taps on his back, and when he felt the next, harder ones, he whirled around with wild gray eyes and an expression that was anything but pleasant, almost a sort of in between version of a scowl and a snarl.

It was a tense moment before he said something, simply staring at the girl for a second as he focused his attention on her, a nice distraction from the city. "...Yes." he answered, his voice tight. "This is... my first time here. I am not used to these places." He clarified, falling back on his tribe's archaic speech patterns as the sun shone on his bronze and flint tools and weapons. Put simply, he looked like he belonged to a time period that was probably a good few hundred to thousand years or so behind this elf blooded girl.
Look, all I'm saying is that Batboy is our lord and savior.
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Re: The Northmarches (IC)

Postby Mark3000 » Sun Oct 17, 2021 6:41 am

Penelope was glad to have finally reached Esterwyn. The trip to the frontier town had been anything but pleasant. She had grown up with the Wayward Fangs since birth and knew just how unruly they could be, especially to women. But it seemed as though they had made it their mission to get under Penelope’s skin. The raunchy remarks and ass slaps were one thing, but the stew incident nearly pushed her over the edge. One of the men had offered to cook dinner while Penelope was out scouting the way ahead. When she returned, they offered her the stew. . She ate it without a second thought, much to the amusement of the other men. Once she learned of the ‘extra cream’ that had been added she nearly threw up. From that moment on she kept a close eye on whoever was cooking.

Looking up at the Laughing Bull, Penelope sighed. She didn’t object to the inn. IT was a fine establishment. She was more worried about their party’ coffers. Especially given who was leading the company. Penelope had grown up with Arden at the Fang’s base. Even when they were children Arden was a bit of an ass. Though he wasn’t the only one to mock her because of her mother’s work, he was one of the worse. He only became a bigger bastard with age. Despite all this, he was Penelope’s superior on this mission. And she had to do everything in her power to make sure it was a success.

Once inside, Penelope took a moment to bask in the wonderful atmosphere of the common room. It was a nice change of pace compared to camping out in the woods. A loving warmth radiated through the area. Though her gentle musings were interrupted by a familiar hand struck her buttocks. Looking at Arden, she gave him a dirty look before walking towards the bar. She was too tired to snap back with a witty comeback.

Walking up to the counter, Penelope waved over the Minos bartender. “Good day Miss, I was wondering if I could get a pint of something strong” She said, taking a spot at the bar. “Also, could you bring over drinks for that rowdy bunch over there” Penelope added motioning to the spot where the Fangs had settled. Even among the other rough parties in the tavern ,her group stood out. “Any old thing will do for those louts, trust me” she said in a hushed tone to the barmaid.

Penelope wasn’t too keen on rejoining her company just yet. So as her order was being prepared, she decided to make light conversation with the Minos behind the bar. “I must say, this is a lovely inn. I’d love to know what’s cooking in the back.” Penelope said as she motioned to the kitchen.
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Re: The Northmarches (IC)

Postby kermitphrogg114 » Sun Oct 17, 2021 11:50 am

Ze Blitzkrieg Wrote:Raagen Morcaryn (kermitphrogg)
Spoiler (click to show/hide):

Your journey to the Northmarches was certainly a wake up call, if your previous forays into adventuring work had not been; the isolation of the region meant that you had to spend many a night sleeping rough on the roads leading north, which only became less and less well maintained as you got further out. The occasional roadside inn or accommodating homesteader gave you reprieve from the worst of the elements here and there, but never enough to make the sight of Esterwyn anything less than a blessing. Hurriedly along by the thought of a nice, soft bed to sleep in under a warm roof, the silhouette of the town only grew and grew as the sun shrunk, your arrival coinciding with sundown. The town itself is rather populous for somewhere so far beyond civilization, dashing any hopes that you would find respite and solitude away from the more populated regions of the empire. Not that you would have had the opportunity even if Esterwyn proved itself to be a charming little outpost, as your mission to track down an old family friend was the entire purpose for visiting such an inhospitable land.

It was a miracle you had even managed to track him to Esterwyn. The man did not make himself easy to find, with only a stray rumor from some previous companions that he had headed north a year or two ago on business and not returned south since. Finding him here at the edge of the world would be difficult, especially with how rangers tended to be in regions of vast wilderness. Still, concerns for his whereabouts would have to come later. For now, you had to figure out where you would be lodging. Any town of relative size had several inns and taverns, but asking a few questions among the locals always circled back to one in particular: The Laughing Bull. It was the largest and best known, apparently built early in the town's history by an adventurer who had helped in its foundation.

Indeed, as you navigate your way to the town's main market square, it sits imposingly to the south east, a looming four story building of stone and timber. Locals filtering in for a night of merriment. Popular as it is, perhaps it would serve both your purposes, a source of information and comfort.

What had begun as a simple quest to get in contact with an old friend became something of a wild goose chase as she began to trail Thornfield all over the Northmarches. Every time she swore she had a solid lead (or as solid as she could find), it would sputter out and he'd have moved on a long time ago. Then again, maybe she should have realized that following a veteran ranger in a wilderness was a very difficult proposition at the least. All the while the journey was proving more challenging than she had previously imagined. Still, it does make her appreciate the tales of her parents' adventuring days - and the need for a good guide or ranger by their side. It also gives her more chances to see the world, even if it's not quite the parts she'd imagined.

However, Esterwyn was nonetheless a welcome sight indeed for the weary wizard, and she just wants to get some hot food and a soft bed for once. Maybe she could find some more substantial leads on Duravor's whereabouts for once - but that will have to wait.

Finding the Laughing Bull was a pleasant surprise; it was a large, rather well-kept inn, with a well-managed appearance and clean floors, which meant she didn't have to watch her step as much. She studies the place, and sees the usual clientelle; people who want some hot food after a long day, those who come drinking with their buddies, the travelers and adventurers (like herself) seeking a warm bed and a hot plate for a night, and the occasional band of rowdy mercenaries like those causing a ruckus in the corner. Over at the bar was a Minos, tending to the patrons and inquiries.

First thing's first, Raagen muses, best to inquire about vacancies and the possibility of food - and it wouldn't be a bad idea to inquire about the prices, either. She strides to the bar, keeping her cloak wrapped around her, as she goes up to the bartender.

"Greetings, Ma'am," she begins, "could I inquire whether you've got any vacancies for the night, and how much it would cost for a room?"

She overhears the inquiry of the patron next to her, a short human woman who was... extremely well-stacked. Raagen tries to avert her eyes from the other woman's form, especially since she seems rather well armed.

"And I second her question; what's on the menu?"
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Re: The Northmarches (IC)

Postby Lazy Kitsune » Sun Oct 17, 2021 2:35 pm

Lula Bucker

Spoiler (click to show/hide):

Ze Blitzkrieg Wrote:There's some exhilarating about the north that has made the long journey through its rolling hills and dense forests seem to fly by. Every day you're met with new scenic vistas, witness new wildlife, and occasionally meet interesting strangers: you had never so much as seen an actual bear living back with your mother, but just two days prior you had met two bearmen on the way to Esterwyn! It had been several weeks since setting sail for one of the empire's most remote towns, all in the hopes of tracking down one of your father's supposed associates; Amara Blackthorn. By your estimations, the town itself was only a day or two away now, and the thought of finally arriving at a new port only set your feet into a frenzy as you travelled the worn dirt roads that were the Northmarches' arteries. As the sun began to sink down behind the far off horizon, though, it became obvious that you likely wouldn't reach town before nightfall.

Living on the road was no issue for an adventurer such as yourself, however, and so instead of bemoaning the flow of time, the item of the hour became finding a good place to camp out for the night. If you had a sharp eye, you could find the occasional bend in the road that offered good protection from the elements, or a nice little patch of woodlands to hunker down in for a night. Then you could set up a fire, get some grub, and huddle in for a good night's rest. Of course, there was little reason to make your own camp when you came across another on the road, and lo-and-behold, such a camp was just off in the distance! In the growing twilight, it was easy enough to spot a campfire crackling among the mostly empty meadows that straddled either side of the road. It seemed the inhabitants even had the sense to set up their camp against one of the cairns that dotted these rural northern roads, the stacked stones acting as a windbreak to keep the chill at bay.

There was always the option to go at it alone, but who could resist dropping anchor and getting to know some of the locals? Besides, the road was lonely enough without a crew to call your own.


The journey north had almost been an adventure in and of itself. There was something wild and truly untameable about these lands that called to Lula. It seemed as defiant as the sea in its halt of imperial expansion. She wasn't quite dressed for the climate, but she welcomed the chill as the northern air breezes through Lula's skirt. It was the land's welcome, a cold kiss welcoming her in. Esterwyn bound, only a day or two away, Lula's chest swelled with excitement for what was to come. Certainly, the prospect of finding this Amara Blackthorn and getting one step closer to finding her father was exciting enough, although she had chased leads that turned out to be dead ends before. No, while hopeful, she didn't place all her excitement on some hearsay bearing fruit. It was the unpredictability of this particular venture that captivated her.

Already she had come to know, in more ways than one, people of more exotic walks of life than could be found in even her home port's most lively of days. A taste of what was to be expected of the further north she travelled. Perhaps she should start writing a journal of her own, leave behind a trunk filled with the legacies and memoirs of adventures to rival and surpass even her father's own.

As the sky dimmed, the light departing with the setting sun, Lula's thoughts turned to one of shelter and warmth for the night. She had the means to set up camp and more than enough practice on her travels to do it well, but that didn't mean she had to put in all that effort every night. Besides, what was the point of being such good company and keeping that all to herself? That just seemed selfish.

Signalled to camp by the light of the campfire in the distance, like a lighthouse guiding her safely to her harbour, Lula trekked across the roadside meadows to approach the cairn she saw people setting up camp by. Pulling out her spyglass, she gave a quick look to get a sense of the people she would be introducing herself to, or as much as she could with the campfire as her only meaningful source of illumination at this hour, before sauntering over with a cheeky smile.

"Ahoy there!" she called out as she approached, slipping her spyglass away. "Room for one more to cosy up by your fire?"
~Yawn
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Re: The Northmarches (IC)

Postby Ze Blitzkrieg » Mon Oct 18, 2021 1:24 am

Crosses the River (Mashugana)
Spoiler (click to show/hide):

The half-elf gives you just a little bit of a wider berth as you nearly snarl at the poor girl, the sensory overload of the town keeping you on edge. The ability to focus on something much smaller than a whole city is rather welcome, though, and if she's offended by your standoffish behavior, she certainly doesn't show it. Quite the opposite, in fact. The blonde steps just a little closer to you, hovering just within your personal space as she speaks sweetly. The way she sidles up to you, combined with the way she's dressed, makes it fairly difficult to ignore her more feminine assets. Her dress is low cut, exposing most of her shoulders and her cleavage, which is only further accentuated by the corset she wears beneath it and the way she subtly arches her back towards you.

"So I've noticed. You look like you want to just crawl right out of your skin, big guy. Do you want me to show you somewhere a little less crowded? I'm headed somewhere like that right now."

Roll: Seduction (Half-Elf), Cha vs Wis
Results: 15 (12+3) vs 23 (20+3), successful resist

Roll: Insight (Crosses), Wis vs Cha
Results: 14 (11+3) vs 8 (5+3), successful read


Even without a finer understanding of how this town operates, the way she approaches you is simple biology. It's amply clear that she's trying to tempt you with her body and honeyed words, although she doesn't seem to have any sinister intentions in leading you away. She's earnest in her offer to give you some respite from the crowds, but her motivations for doing so are clearly more than simple altruism. Money, maybe?


Raagen Morcaryn (kermitphrogg) & Penelope Delights (Mark3000)
Spoiler (click to show/hide):

As Penelope settles down into her seat and makes her request, the Minos woman gives a curious glance over the head of the shorter woman before giving a soft chuckle at her disdain towards her rowdy companions. "Don't worry, hun. We've all been there."

With a gesture, she beckons one of the barmaids towards the Fang's chosen table, indicating that they're in need of drinks. She fetches a mug from under the counter and heads off to one of the many casks lining the back of the bar. A frothy, golden colored liquid begins to fill it up. She returns to the counter with the drink in hand just as the elf approaches, and sets it down beside Penelope. Running her fingers through her thick brown locks, she ponders.

"I appreciate the praise. Right now? Poached grouse and what smells like oatbread. We tend to go through a lot of food around here, so if you were hoping for the boar from earlier, we're fresh out," She explains to the weary travelers. A much more certain answer comes in response to Raagen's question of vacancies. "For a single room? Two marks a night. Might seem steep, but they're nice and big, and the mattresses are feathered. Won't find nicer accommodations in town."


Lula Bucker (LazyKitsune)
Spoiler (click to show/hide):

Your spyglass gives you a good view of the assembled travelers, enough for you to at least discern the in broad strokes what kind of folks you'll find yourself in the company of tonight, if all goes well. There are three figures milling about the camp, but all of them share the same features; each seems to be tall, fluffy and wolf-like, a trio of Lupo, and likely all men if their larger builds are anything to go by, although all beastkin this far north seemed to skew towards the larger side. They also seemed to be armed and armored, although the quality of their equipment indicates they're not exactly poor off, and so fears of banditry are assuage. Plus, bandits didn't tend to make camp right near the road, visible to any old traveler they mean to waylay. As you slip away the glass and saunter towards them, you're noticed a short while later, but only one of the three stands from his duties to acknowledge you, one of them staking down a canvas tent while the other slices what looks to be potatoes into a pot.

"Might be, depending on who's asking," The traveler replies, giving you a good once over. It's not exactly hard to see where his eyes tend to linger, especially when you make it a priority to draw eyes to to your more intimate places. Besides, being appreciated by what appears to be a well-built beastman has its own advantages, if you later decide more intimate company is desired for the night. Once he's gotten his fill of ogling your chest with his flinty eyes, he offers you one of his large, paw-like hands, the fur covering his digits and palm a stark white compared to the rest of his black coat.

"Come on then, settle by the fire. Name's Sigmund. These are my brothers, Stane and Sverre." In hindsight, their relation should have been expected, considering each of them carries the same general coloration as the others, with a few differences in what patches of white cover which portions of their muzzles or limbs.


Eliza Asara (Lorielle)
Spoiler (click to show/hide):

With nothing left to do but intervene, you try your damnedest to sneak up on the indisposed wolf so you could give it a good taste of your halberd.

Roll: Attack (Eliza), Str vs Str
Result: 7 (4+3) vs 11(8+2), miss


Unfortunately, the other wolves snarl at your approach, giving the one rattling the carriage enough forewarning to drop back down right before your blade cuts an arc where its head had been. It wheels around to face you, but its fellows have already begun their assault, lashing out at you with their razor-like fangs.

Roll: Attack (Wolf 2), Str vs Str
Result: 20 (19+1+2-2) vs 17 (11+3+3), hit
Damage: 8 (6+2)

Roll: Attack (Wolf 3), Str vs Str
Result: 9 (9+2-2) vs 24 (17+3+4), miss


A lance of pain shoots through your body as one of them sinks its fangs into one of the thinner portions of your armor, where only mail separates it from your flesh. The manage to bat away the second one with the butt of your polearm, and disentangle yourself from the wolf who had bit you shortly after, but by then the third has joined with its fellows in circling you.

Roll: Perception (Eliza), Wis vs Dex
Result: 11 (11) vs 7 (4+3)


Now that you're facing down the pack, it becomes a little more obvious why the beasts are acting so aggressive in spite of their opportunistic nature. It's easy enough to see that they're rather, erm... stimulated at the moment. You can easily see a trio of thick, red members hanging between their legs, fully engorged and needy. It's possible that their need to find relief is what spurred them to attack a traveler, perhaps as an outlet for misplaced sexual aggression. The finer points of wolf mating are lost on you, but it's just about the only reason you can think of at the moment.


Elvara Greyfang (Firehead)
Spoiler (click to show/hide):

Your pursuit of Elias had taken you all over the Northmarches, hunting what few clues you could find. Understandably, finding a Lupo in their ancestral lands was always going to be a hard sell, even if you could describe him with all the exactness of a sibling. The closest you've gotten to a lead was from an innkeeper on the road, who claimed she'd seen a man fitting your brother's description with a strange looking group of mercenaries bound for a town called Esterwyn in the northern bit of the marches. What they intended to do there, and what it might have had to do with your father's death was up for speculation, but it was more of a lead than you had received since setting off from home. After a week or two of traveling, you find yourself closing in on the town itself, if the directions you had been given were anything to go by. You would likely arrive in the next day, maybe two if you decided to take the last stretch more leisurely. With twilight upon you and night fast approaching, it became imperative to find out where you would be spending the night.

Fortunately enough for you, as you find yourself pondering camping locations, a voice calls out to you. Spinning around to see the source, you catch sight of a farmer making his way down a footpath that merges with the main road towards Esterwyn. With a scythe slung over his shoulder, it seems as though he's returning from a day of harvesting.

"On your way to Esterwyn, miss? Don't think you'll be makin' it tonight. Still a ways off," He tells you, "If you're headed that way, I got an offer that might interest ya, if you're willin' to listen."
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Ze Blitzkrieg
 
Joined: Mon Oct 31, 2016 10:42 am

Re: The Northmarches (IC)

Postby Lorielle » Mon Oct 18, 2021 2:15 am

Ze Blitzkrieg Wrote:
Eliza Asara (Lorielle)
Spoiler (click to show/hide):

With nothing left to do but intervene, you try your damnedest to sneak up on the indisposed wolf so you could give it a good taste of your halberd.

Roll: Attack (Eliza), Str vs Str
Result: 7 (4+3) vs 11(8+2), miss


Unfortunately, the other wolves snarl at your approach, giving the one rattling the carriage enough forewarning to drop back down right before your blade cuts an arc where its head had been. It wheels around to face you, but its fellows have already begun their assault, lashing out at you with their razor-like fangs.

Roll: Attack (Wolf 2), Str vs Str
Result: 20 (19+1+2-2) vs 17 (11+3+3), hit
Damage: 8 (6+2)

Roll: Attack (Wolf 3), Str vs Str
Result: 9 (9+2-2) vs 24 (17+3+4), miss


A lance of pain shoots through your body as one of them sinks its fangs into one of the thinner portions of your armor, where only mail separates it from your flesh. The manage to bat away the second one with the butt of your polearm, and disentangle yourself from the wolf who had bit you shortly after, but by then the third has joined with its fellows in circling you.

Roll: Perception (Eliza), Wis vs Dex
Result: 11 (11) vs 7 (4+3)


Now that you're facing down the pack, it becomes a little more obvious why the beasts are acting so aggressive in spite of their opportunistic nature. It's easy enough to see that they're rather, erm... stimulated at the moment. You can easily see a trio of thick, red members hanging between their legs, fully engorged and needy. It's possible that their need to find relief is what spurred them to attack a traveler, perhaps as an outlet for misplaced sexual aggression. The finer points of wolf mating are lost on you, but it's just about the only reason you can think of at the moment.




The lessons of her home were certainly correct in that wolves, despite being rather brutish animals, were not to be trifled with.. Made all the more evident by the fact that she had to work to shake off one of the wolves you bit into her thigh. She didnt scream, at least not in a way that was audible as her nerves fired on all cylinders to register the pain. Her halberd arcing in the direction of the wolf who bit her to drive him off as she reassessed her plan of attack. She hadn't expected these beasts to be as ferocious, having encountered wolves of a kind around her home.. these felt nothing like that... The next moment would be more evident as she sees the bobbing of three large and tapered cocks point right at her from underneath the wolves...

She'd nearly let her jaw drop from this, but she could be distracted now. (And while her goddess has no rules pertaining to celibacy Eliza was wholly uninterested in giving up her first time to beasts.) Taking a few steps back the angel pressed her hand against her thigh as she whispered a word of prayer to her goddess, light streaming out of the tips of her immaculate fingers as the energies fill her and she knits her wounds close in a matter of seconds. Now she had to brace from the onslaught before striking back against the first wolf that dares to take her on.
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Re: The Northmarches (IC)

Postby Lazy Kitsune » Mon Oct 18, 2021 2:40 am

Lula Bucker

Spoiler (click to show/hide):

Ze Blitzkrieg Wrote:Your spyglass gives you a good view of the assembled travelers, enough for you to at least discern the in broad strokes what kind of folks you'll find yourself in the company of tonight, if all goes well. There are three figures milling about the camp, but all of them share the same features; each seems to be tall, fluffy and wolf-like, a trio of Lupo, and likely all men if their larger builds are anything to go by, although all beastkin this far north seemed to skew towards the larger side. They also seemed to be armed and armored, although the quality of their equipment indicates they're not exactly poor off, and so fears of banditry are assuage. Plus, bandits didn't tend to make camp right near the road, visible to any old traveler they mean to waylay. As you slip away the glass and saunter towards them, you're noticed a short while later, but only one of the three stands from his duties to acknowledge you, one of them staking down a canvas tent while the other slices what looks to be potatoes into a pot.

"Might be, depending on who's asking," The traveler replies, giving you a good once over. It's not exactly hard to see where his eyes tend to linger, especially when you make it a priority to draw eyes to to your more intimate places. Besides, being appreciated by what appears to be a well-built beastman has its own advantages, if you later decide more intimate company is desired for the night. Once he's gotten his fill of ogling your chest with his flinty eyes, he offers you one of his large, paw-like hands, the fur covering his digits and palm a stark white compared to the rest of his black coat.

"Come on then, settle by the fire. Name's Sigmund. These are my brothers, Stane and Sverre." In hindsight, their relation should have been expected, considering each of them carries the same general coloration as the others, with a few differences in what patches of white cover which portions of their muzzles or limbs.


This trio of Lupo seemed like a studious bunch, hardly roused in the slightest by the arrival of a fourth by their campfire and with only one not engrossed enough in their tasks to be able to greet Lula. Still, she felt some confidence in being able to sway their attention when the one named Sigmund showed such ill hidden appreciation for her body. An appreciation she had no qualms in feeding. Shifting her weight forward slightly in her stance, she puffed out her chest enough to give the taller figure before her a bountiful view down her top. A little incentive to welcome her into their campsite. And it seemed to be working, the initially cool and gruff response to her arrival turning to an invitation by the fireside. It seemed she was enough to his tastes to pass his judgement, not that there was ever any doubt.

"A dandy delight, Sigmund. Captain Lula Bucker, at your service." She said, adding extra emphasis to the final word as she takes his hand. She sits by the fire, sighing as she lets her legs rest for the moment. "What might you lot be out here for then?" Even as she asked, her eyes quickly surveyed the camp to see if she could piece together a motive on her own. She had noted the quality of their equipment when approaching them. They seemed well equipped for hunters, though that may be necessary this far north. They could be sellswords or mercenaries, though she would expect to see more of them in that case. Though they were brothers. A family business perhaps? "Don't suppose you happen to be making your ways to Esterwyn? It'd be real lovely to have some well armed and well looking company along the way."
~Yawn
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Re: The Northmarches (IC)

Postby Mashugana » Mon Oct 18, 2021 3:40 am

Crosses paused as he looked the girl over, his expression fading from a startled snarl to more of what could be described as an unintentional glower. She seemed to want something, of that he was pretty sure, but she didn't appear to be malicious, just... odd. Taking a short, deep breath, he nodded.

"That would be welcome, yes. Where would we be going?" He said with an apologetic tone. He found himself glancing down towards her chest more than he'd like before blinking and taking a good half step back from her, resetting the distance some as he re focused on the woman's face. Once she made the first move, he'd follow after, glancing around for any signs of trouble. Just because she didn't look dangerous to him at a glance, didn't mean she was indeed harmless, or that there wasn't something nasty up ahead.
Look, all I'm saying is that Batboy is our lord and savior.
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Location: In the big city, in the flatlands

Re: The Northmarches (IC)

Postby Mark3000 » Mon Oct 18, 2021 4:41 am

Penelope cheerfully took the mug and chugged it down like a dying man in the desert. Sometimes a stiff drink was all she needed to lift up her mood. Listening to the Minos barmaid, Penelope smiled. “Some oatbread would right now would be really nice right about now” She said putting down the mug.

Looking to her side, the young fighter took notice of the Avariel that took a seat beside her at the bar. What struck her the most were her dark purple wings. They had a regal air to them that caught the mercenary off guard. She had never seen an Avariel before with her own eyes, but she’s heard the other Fangs talk about the race. Mostly they would complain about stuck up Avariel clients or joke about what kind of bird calls they make during sex.

But she wouldn't let rumors and here-say get in the way of making a new friend. She turned to the purple haired woman beside her and raised her mug. “A fellow new arrival. This inn really is popular.” She said, trying to strike up a conversation. “Name’s Penelope …” Just as she was talking, she caught the Avariel woman glancing at her claymore. It was a rather large weapon, especially set against Penelope’s small frame. “Oh, you don’t have to worry about this. Just a tool of the trade. The mercenary trade that is” She said reassuring both the bartender and her companion at the bar.
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Mark3000
 
Joined: Sun May 04, 2014 9:54 am

Re: The Northmarches (IC)

Postby kermitphrogg114 » Mon Oct 18, 2021 6:29 am

Ze Blitzkrieg Wrote:Raagen Morcaryn (kermitphrogg) & Penelope Delights (Mark3000)
Spoiler (click to show/hide):

As Penelope settles down into her seat and makes her request, the Minos woman gives a curious glance over the head of the shorter woman before giving a soft chuckle at her disdain towards her rowdy companions. "Don't worry, hun. We've all been there."

With a gesture, she beckons one of the barmaids towards the Fang's chosen table, indicating that they're in need of drinks. She fetches a mug from under the counter and heads off to one of the many casks lining the back of the bar. A frothy, golden colored liquid begins to fill it up. She returns to the counter with the drink in hand just as the elf approaches, and sets it down beside Penelope. Running her fingers through her thick brown locks, she ponders.

"I appreciate the praise. Right now? Poached grouse and what smells like oatbread. We tend to go through a lot of food around here, so if you were hoping for the boar from earlier, we're fresh out," She explains to the weary travelers. A much more certain answer comes in response to Raagen's question of vacancies. "For a single room? Two marks a night. Might seem steep, but they're nice and big, and the mattresses are feathered. Won't find nicer accommodations in town."

At the news of the boar running out, Raagen shrugs.

"I suppose it's just my luck," she says nonchalantly. "Though I wouldn't mind some of the grouse. Also, I've been dreaming of a hot bowl of soup on the way here, and I wouldn't mind a drink to go with it, brandy or beer.

"And yes, please, set me up for a single room. I've been traveling a fair bit and would love some peace and quiet on a soft bed."

Mark3000 Wrote:Penelope cheerfully took the mug and chugged it down like a dying man in the desert. Sometimes a stiff drink was all she needed to lift up her mood. Listening to the Minos barmaid, Penelope smiled. “Some oatbread would right now would be really nice right about now” She said putting down the mug.

Looking to her side, the young fighter took notice of the Avariel that took a seat beside her at the bar. What struck her the most were her dark purple wings. They had a regal air to them that caught the mercenary off guard. She had never seen an Avariel before with her own eyes, but she’s heard the other Fangs talk about the race. Mostly they would complain about stuck up Avariel clients or joke about what kind of bird calls they make during sex.

But she wouldn't let rumors and here-say get in the way of making a new friend. She turned to the purple haired woman beside her and raised her mug. “A fellow new arrival. This inn really is popular.” She said, trying to strike up a conversation. “Name’s Penelope …” Just as she was talking, she caught the Avariel woman glancing at her claymore. It was a rather large weapon, especially set against Penelope’s small frame. “Oh, you don’t have to worry about this. Just a tool of the trade. The mercenary trade that is” She said reassuring both the bartender and her companion at the bar.

Raagen studies the short human woman for a second, before deciding there's no harm in returning the handshake.

"Raagen," she replies. "Well, it's pretty much the nicest inn in town, I noticed. Also seems to be the only one with any vacancies right now; I asked. Well, unless you count the empty spots on the floor at the Flayed Donkey, but I'd rather not think about that."

Raagen listens to Penelope explaining her line of work, before turning to thank the bartender for the drink.

"So what brings a mercenary this far north?" she aks curiously as she takes drink. "Looking for a client, or already have one? Though, sorry, as much as I'd like a bodyguard, I'm kind of watching my budget at the moment."
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Joined: Mon Jan 02, 2017 6:57 am

Re: The Northmarches (IC)

Postby Firehead » Mon Oct 18, 2021 10:44 am

Ze Blitzkrieg Wrote:Elvara Greyfang (Firehead)
Spoiler (click to show/hide):

Your pursuit of Elias had taken you all over the Northmarches, hunting what few clues you could find. Understandably, finding a Lupo in their ancestral lands was always going to be a hard sell, even if you could describe him with all the exactness of a sibling. The closest you've gotten to a lead was from an innkeeper on the road, who claimed she'd seen a man fitting your brother's description with a strange looking group of mercenaries bound for a town called Esterwyn in the northern bit of the marches. What they intended to do there, and what it might have had to do with your father's death was up for speculation, but it was more of a lead than you had received since setting off from home. After a week or two of traveling, you find yourself closing in on the town itself, if the directions you had been given were anything to go by. You would likely arrive in the next day, maybe two if you decided to take the last stretch more leisurely. With twilight upon you and night fast approaching, it became imperative to find out where you would be spending the night.

Fortunately enough for you, as you find yourself pondering camping locations, a voice calls out to you. Spinning around to see the source, you catch sight of a farmer making his way down a footpath that merges with the main road towards Esterwyn. With a scythe slung over his shoulder, it seems as though he's returning from a day of harvesting.

"On your way to Esterwyn, miss? Don't think you'll be makin' it tonight. Still a ways off," He tells you, "If you're headed that way, I got an offer that might interest ya, if you're willin' to listen."


Elvara was lost in thought as she wandered the road. Over this long trek, she felt like she was getting closer to finding her sibling, but no closer to understanding the reason he'd run. While his trail hadn't exactly been easy to follow, it was far from his best attempt at covering his tracks. If he was fleeing, why wasn't he being less cautious about his movements? If he was chasing someone, why had he left without a word? She was becoming certain she would need to find him before she could even begin to understand his reasons for leaving.

She wasn't so sure about this Esterwyn as it was the largest settlement she had ever visited, and a few of the ones she'd already encountered were pushing into being too big for her taste. Still, she couldn't return to the pack without anything to show for it. Clutching the pendant her mother made for her. It was supposed to bring good fortune, but she used it for another purpose. Bringing it to her snout, she took a deep breath. Her mother's scent still clinging it to her reminding her of home. Being away so long was gnawing at her, and this was her only reprieve.

She was distracted by thoughts of home jumping when the man spoke. She reminded herself not to get lost in thoughts like that. This man seemed safe enough, but the next person to catch her unaware might not be the same. "Yes, that's where I'm going." There must not be many people going this way on this road if he knew where she was going that well. She was a bit curious about his offer. It didn't hurt that he must live nearby, and she was looking for a place to stay the night. "I can listen, but I need to find a place to stay the night. I would be happy to listen if you had shelter to offer."
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Re: The Northmarches (IC)

Postby Mark3000 » Mon Oct 18, 2021 11:58 am

Spoiler (click to show/hide):

Raagen studies the short human woman for a second, before deciding there's no harm in returning the handshake.

"Raagen," she replies. "Well, it's pretty much the nicest inn in town, I noticed. Also seems to be the only one with any vacancies right now; I asked. Well, unless you count the empty spots on the floor at the Flayed Donkey, but I'd rather not think about that."

Raagen listens to Penelope explaining her line of work, before turning to thank the bartender for the drink.

"So what brings a mercenary this far north?" she aks curiously as she takes drink. "Looking for a client, or already have one? Though, sorry, as much as I'd like a bodyguard, I'm kind of watching my budget at the moment."


Penelope shook her head no and replied. "Sorry but I already have a job lined up. My client me and my company from the Wayward Fangs to explore a set of druidic ruins" She said motioning towards the table of men. By now they had probably received their drinks and getting rowdier by the second. "Though what could you be up to that you would need a bodyguard?" Penelope said with a laugh.
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Re: The Northmarches (IC)

Postby kermitphrogg114 » Mon Oct 18, 2021 1:22 pm

Spoiler (click to show/hide):

Mark3000 Wrote:Penelope shook her head no and replied. "Sorry but I already have a job lined up. My client me and my company from the Wayward Fangs to explore a set of druidic ruins" She said motioning towards the table of men. By now they had probably received their drinks and getting rowdier by the second. "Though what could you be up to that you would need a bodyguard?" Penelope said with a laugh.

"Well, nothing much, just traveling these wildlands on my lonesome, you know how it is," Raagen replies. "I mean, I can take care of myself if needs be, but a girl can't be too careful."

Her eyes quickly assume a more... inquisitive glint.

"Though what's that about exploring druidic ruins?" she asks. "Because I was doing my own research into the various mystic locations of interest in this region. Your employer wouldn't happen to have already hired a scholar for the expedition, would they?"

Spoiler (click to show/hide):

Requesting an Intelligence roll for Raagen to see what she knows about the ruins in this region.
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Re: The Northmarches (IC)

Postby Ze Blitzkrieg » Mon Oct 18, 2021 3:07 pm

Crosses the River (Mashugana)
Spoiler (click to show/hide):

"Where are we going? To a tavern, silly. Do they have those where you come from? They probably don't. It's okay though, you'll like it, I promise." She doesn't exactly give you a word edgewise, and it's difficult to discern whether she does that on purpose to keep you on the back foot or if her bubbly demeanor simply makes the words flow with ease. Either way, the blonde reaches to take you by the hand and begin leading you through the streets of Esterwyn. For all her forwardness, having a guide who actually knows where she's going does make navigating the evening streets much easier, even accounting for the fact she seems to be leading you to a more crowded part of town. You've heard that merchants in the bigger towns have a tendency to hawk their goods at a particular area towards the center, and with the stalls lining a particular square clearing near your destination, you can only assume this is it.

You don't exactly have time to truly appreciate the gathering space, though, as the girl leads you right up to one of the largest buildings you've seen in your life: a lumbering four story establishment with a jolly looking bull plaque dangling above its door. As she leads you through the front door, your senses are assailed again by what is within. Laughter, banter and the sounds of clanking tankards and silverware, the smells of malty liquor and bread and sweet herbs. The interior of the inn equal parts welcoming and disconcerting for someone unfamiliar with the concept like yourself.

"Well, I did say less crowded, didn't I?" Your host says with a sheepish little grin. She tugs at your hand a little, apparently wanting you to come in a little further. "C'mon, I'll find you a nice little table in the back. You like to drink, right? What can I get you? Mead, ale? We got some nice brandy from down south recently."


Raagen Morcaryn (kermitphrogg) & Penelope Delights (Mark3000)
Spoiler (click to show/hide):

With the two women falling into conversation, the Minos heads off to the back in order to put together the requested meal, presumably, leaving the mercenary with a pretty head-spinning mug of what tastes like mead. Their conversation inevitably falls to the ruins which Penelope had been contracted to explore.

Roll: Knowledge (Raagen), Int vs DC
Result: 11 (2+6+3), partial success


Of course, it's relatively hard to recall much about the ruins in the area. An elven kingdom had once occupied this portion of the marches, although by the time Andovan explorers had made it so far north, that kingdom had long since faded into obscurity, even its name lost to the ages. What was known, at least by local lore, was that ruins believed to belong to this once great kingdom were rumored to lay west of humble Esterwyn, in the dense forests across the river. Exploration of the area was never very extensive, largely in part to the fey presence in those woods, which made any journey towards the deeper, more primeval regions perilous to say the least.


Lula Bucker (LazyKitsune)
Spoiler (click to show/hide):

You can't help but catch what you think to be a grin tugging its way at the corners of Sigmund's maw as you flirt with the wolfman. It's always a bit hard to tell with the less human races, but he certainly seems interested in the services you hint at. As you seat yourself by the fire and enjoy the warmth its crackling provides, he settles down nearby. The other two give you their greetings, and as on task as they had been before, the presence of a lovely young woman definitely steals their attention on more than one occasion. Not enough to cause any accidents, thankfully. Listening to your inquiry, your generous hosts answers before the others.

"Work. Things have been getting a little rough around the marches lately, and people pay good coin for protection." He tells you, confirming the theory that the trio make their living as mercenaries. "Esterwyn is the only town for miles, so yeah, that's where we'd be heading. Wouldn't mind having you along, though it might get a little crowded, the four of us in one camp."

It's around then that you can feel his hand come up behind you, running along the small of your back, the tips of his clawed fingers trailing along your cuirass. It's a little forward, considering you'd just met him, but beastfolk always seemed rather blunt. It seems he's testing how welcome his efforts will be with you going forward, and his touching doesn't seem to escape the notice of his kin either: it's likely they'll take cues from how welcome their elder brother's ministrations are.

"You don't seem the type of girl to mind that though, do you?"


Eliza Asara (Lorielle)
Spoiler (click to show/hide):

Roll: Lay on Hands (Eliza), Cha vs Missing HP
Result: 6 (4+2)

Roll: Attack (Eliza), Str vs Str
Result: 13 (10+3) vs 13 (9+2+2), success
Damage: 9 (6+3)


The Goddess' light fills your wounded leg with warmth, and you can feel the deep punctures in your thigh begin to fill in and fade away, leaving only shallow gashes along your pale skin in their wake. Another beast rears up to lunge at you, but you successfully bring down your halberd and crack it between the shoulder blades, causing it to cry out in pain. Injured quite badly by the blow, the creature seems to slink off towards the back, allowing its fellows to team up on you in its stead.

Roll: Attack (Wolf 2), Str vs Str
Result: 16 (15+1+2-2) vs 11 (7+1+3), hit
Damage: 3 (1+2)

Roll: Mount (Wolf 3), Str vs Str
Result: 24 (20+4+2-2) vs 15 (7+5+3)
Lust: 7 (5+2)


The creatures continue to prove themselves to be rather intelligent; one of them lunges for your arm, biting down on your wrist as you move to reposition your polearm after your first strike. Familiar pain shoots up your arm as its fangs find purchase along the underside of your gauntlet. As you wrestle that same arm away, the other wolf throws itself at you from behind. Only, rather than sinking its fangs into you, the beast instead stands on its hind legs, grasping you with its forelimbs as it jerks you backwards against it. Blood rushes to your cheeks as you realize what its doing; you can feel its bestial cock grinding between your legs even as it dry humps you in a vain attempt at finding release. You manage to shove the canine off before it can do much more than coat the inner thighs of your pants in its musk, but the assault leaves you somewhat rattled, and perhaps more embarrassingly, more than a little bit stimulated!


Elvara Greyfang (Firehead)
Spoiler (click to show/hide):

When mention needing shelter for the night, the farmer practically beams. "Well, ain't that convenient? I was just gonna ask if you'd like to stay over at my place. I'll be runnin' some goods up to Esterwyn tomorrow, and figured I could use company for the road. Might as well if we're both headin' that way, eh? I'll even throw in some supper for the trouble."

Roll: Insight (Elvara), Wis vs Cha
Results: 1 (2-1) vs 6 (6), fail


It seems like a pretty good offer to you overall, and the farmer seems to be a pretty friendly guy. You wondered whether humans like himself were more willing to share what they had with strangers the Lupo clans tended to be. Maybe it just came with having plenty to go around.
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Ze Blitzkrieg
 
Joined: Mon Oct 31, 2016 10:42 am

Re: The Northmarches (IC)

Postby Lazy Kitsune » Mon Oct 18, 2021 3:54 pm

Lula Bucker
Spoiler (click to show/hide):

Ze Blitzkrieg Wrote:You can't help but catch what you think to be a grin tugging its way at the corners of Sigmund's maw as you flirt with the wolfman. It's always a bit hard to tell with the less human races, but he certainly seems interested in the services you hint at. As you seat yourself by the fire and enjoy the warmth its crackling provides, he settles down nearby. The other two give you their greetings, and as on task as they had been before, the presence of a lovely young woman definitely steals their attention on more than one occasion. Not enough to cause any accidents, thankfully. Listening to your inquiry, your generous hosts answers before the others.

"Work. Things have been getting a little rough around the marches lately, and people pay good coin for protection." He tells you, confirming the theory that the trio make their living as mercenaries. "Esterwyn is the only town for miles, so yeah, that's where we'd be heading. Wouldn't mind having you along, though it might get a little crowded, the four of us in one camp."

It's around then that you can feel his hand come up behind you, running along the small of your back, the tips of his clawed fingers trailing along your cuirass. It's a little forward, considering you'd just met him, but beastfolk always seemed rather blunt. It seems he's testing how welcome his efforts will be with you going forward, and his touching doesn't seem to escape the notice of his kin either: it's likely they'll take cues from how welcome their elder brother's ministrations are.

"You don't seem the type of girl to mind that though, do you?"


"I've never shied away from a crowd." she says, sliding closer to his side in response to his rather forward gesture. The boldness was working for him, but more so was that after spending so long on the road Lula was more than welcoming of the prospect of warm and pleasant company for the night. Still, that didn't mean she wanted to make it too easy for him. There's nothing like adding a little bit of a challenge to the situation to spice things up. And if she played her cards right, than maybe she could get something else for herself out of this encounter. And speaking of playing cards...

"So, whats the lot of you do to pass the time? Other than being tall, strong and handsome. Got any playing cards or dice? I've always found a friendly wager or two can help pass the time and get people more well acquainted." She stretched her legs out across the ground, shifting so her back softly rested against Sigmund's hand. Reclined as she was, she let her legs on display by the flickering light of the campfire, her tattoos guiding the gaze up to where her skirt threatens to slip back ever so slightly to reveal more. "I don't have a whole lot of coin on me to gamble, but that doesn't mean we can't use items or favours or... other things we might be able to think of. Its just a friendly game, after all."
~Yawn
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Lazy Kitsune
 
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Re: The Northmarches (IC)

Postby Lorielle » Mon Oct 18, 2021 3:57 pm

Ze Blitzkrieg Wrote:Eliza Asara (Lorielle)
Spoiler (click to show/hide):

Roll: Lay on Hands (Eliza), Cha vs Missing HP
Result: 6 (4+2)

Roll: Attack (Eliza), Str vs Str
Result: 13 (10+3) vs 13 (9+2+2), success
Damage: 9 (6+3)


The Goddess' light fills your wounded leg with warmth, and you can feel the deep punctures in your thigh begin to fill in and fade away, leaving only shallow gashes along your pale skin in their wake. Another beast rears up to lunge at you, but you successfully bring down your halberd and crack it between the shoulder blades, causing it to cry out in pain. Injured quite badly by the blow, the creature seems to slink off towards the back, allowing its fellows to team up on you in its stead.

Roll: Attack (Wolf 2), Str vs Str
Result: 16 (15+1+2-2) vs 11 (7+1+3), hit
Damage: 3 (1+2)

Roll: Mount (Wolf 3), Str vs Str
Result: 24 (20+4+2-2) vs 15 (7+5+3)
Lust: 7 (5+2)


The creatures continue to prove themselves to be rather intelligent; one of them lunges for your arm, biting down on your wrist as you move to reposition your polearm after your first strike. Familiar pain shoots up your arm as its fangs find purchase along the underside of your gauntlet. As you wrestle that same arm away, the other wolf throws itself at you from behind. Only, rather than sinking its fangs into you, the beast instead stands on its hind legs, grasping you with its forelimbs as it jerks you backwards against it. Blood rushes to your cheeks as you realize what its doing; you can feel its bestial cock grinding between your legs even as it dry humps you in a vain attempt at finding release. You manage to shove the canine off before it can do much more than coat the inner thighs of your pants in its musk, but the assault leaves you somewhat rattled, and perhaps more embarrassingly, more than a little bit stimulated!




Watching the beast recoil in pain brought no sense of satisfaction to the acolyte, she simply had to continue to fight, especially as these creatures seemed extremely hellbent on their goal of ravaging her with their... She couldnt even managed to complete the thought as the brief distraction allows for an opening for another wolf to bypass her armor, its teeth sinking into her wrist rather painfully. Just as she was ready to throw the wolf off she feels another against her back, for the moment she feared the worst, but that would have been nothing to the humiliation she started to feel as the wolf rubbed it's tapered dick between her thighs.

Her yelp was like a newborn pup as well, certainly spurring the wolf on in the brief moment it managed to perform its depraved act, but she thankfully managed to throw the thing off. Now was her chance to strike again, bringing her halberd down on the wolf hoping to end it for forcing itself upon her, of all people!

"Just die already!" She in a small fit of rage at the beast, her conflicting emotions being scattered about, even partially directed toward the goblin woman who seemed to not be helping despite someone coming to her rescue.
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Lorielle
 
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Re: The Northmarches (IC)

Postby kermitphrogg114 » Mon Oct 18, 2021 4:00 pm

Spoiler (click to show/hide):

Ze Blitzkrieg Wrote:Raagen Morcaryn (kermitphrogg) & Penelope Delights (Mark3000)
With the two women falling into conversation, the Minos heads off to the back in order to put together the requested meal, presumably, leaving the mercenary with a pretty head-spinning mug of what tastes like mead. Their conversation inevitably falls to the ruins which Penelope had been contracted to explore.

Roll: Knowledge (Raagen), Int vs DC
Result: 11 (2+6+3), partial success


Of course, it's relatively hard to recall much about the ruins in the area. An elven kingdom had once occupied this portion of the marches, although by the time Andovan explorers had made it so far north, that kingdom had long since faded into obscurity, even its name lost to the ages. What was known, at least by local lore, was that ruins believed to belong to this once great kingdom were rumored to lay west of humble Esterwyn, in the dense forests across the river. Exploration of the area was never very extensive, largely in part to the fey presence in those woods, which made any journey towards the deeper, more primeval regions perilous to say the least.

"Let me guess," Raagen speaks up, "you're headed to the western forest? It's the closest ruin I could think of. Rumor has it there's a considerable fey presence, which makes the journey to the ruins a risky proposition. I can see why said expedition would hire a mercenary squad..."
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Re: The Northmarches (IC)

Postby Firehead » Tue Oct 19, 2021 12:49 am

Ze Blitzkrieg Wrote:Elvara Greyfang (Firehead)
Spoiler (click to show/hide):

When mention needing shelter for the night, the farmer practically beams. "Well, ain't that convenient? I was just gonna ask if you'd like to stay over at my place. I'll be runnin' some goods up to Esterwyn tomorrow, and figured I could use company for the road. Might as well if we're both headin' that way, eh? I'll even throw in some supper for the trouble."

Roll: Insight (Elvara), Wis vs Cha
Results: 1 (2-1) vs 6 (6), fail


It seems like a pretty good offer to you overall, and the farmer seems to be a pretty friendly guy. You wondered whether humans like himself were more willing to share what they had with strangers the Lupo clans tended to be. Maybe it just came with having plenty to go around.


Elvara was surprised by the generosity of this one, but she didn't see much reason for suspicion. He probably wanted her help moving his wares, and he did say he wanted some company. After the long trip, she could see why anyone might want someone to talk to. The Earth Mother knew how badly she could use someone to chat with.

She felt her tail wagged, but she remembered the man's race and did her best to smile with her muzzle. It was very awkward, but she'd learned over her trip that these people looked more to the face when trying to read someone. "Yes, I could use a warm place to rest and some company for the rest of my trip. Please, lead the way." She moved to follow him back to his home.
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