[M] Tabula Rasa (F) [Archive] - Online Roleplaying Forum

Juicesir

07-28-2014, 12:03 AM

He couldn't believe it: he was here! This place, whatever it was, felt right. The dream, the vision, whatever it was, had led him here to this little town upon the harbor. Compared to the large city he had just walked from, it felt much better. There weren't nearly as many beggars on the streets as they had in the capital, and everything looked so clean! Pristine ocean air filled the young boy's lungs as he jauntily made his way down the alleys and twisting streets of the littoral town.

Dalegr Reies had only a raggedy, too large pair of trousers, white long-sleeved shirt, butcher's apron, and satchel full of small personal items to his name. The thing of most value he had was a small locket of gilt silver with a small emerald inlaid upon the face. But that he would never part with. Even on the long walk from the capital to this harbor town, despite lack of food and proper clothing, he had wearied the trail.

He gave looks at all the people as if they were new, as if people this normal could not exist. Here, the folk seemed to take things at a slower pace. There was less bustle, and even even was waved at once by a woman on her way out with a basket. He had smiled, unsure of what to do.

It was a while before he found a place which suited him for rest. A small alleyway, not far off the main thoroughfare, where but a few of the town's beggars had fashioned a small makeshift house in the alley. Huddled against the walls, he approached them. He had no compunctions about resting with the unsheltered, having once lived such a life himself.

"Mind if I rest here?" His boyish voice made him suddenly highly self-conscious. The three men seated there were all far older than he. Two had the gruff glint of the sea in their eyes, and shared a look which might have been of brothers. Twins perhaps, even. The other man was much older. He had a short cropped snow white beard and wore a cap, his overalls browned either from dirt or age.

The eldest gave a nod, and motioned for him to sit. Slinging his pack off of his shoulders, he seated himself. Damp ground greeted his bony buttocks, and he again was made aware of just how hungry he was. But there was a different hunger which must be sated first. "Sir, if I may so ask, what town is it that I am in?"

Locke

07-28-2014, 02:22 AM

"Grab the fuckin' rope boy!"

A burly sailor snapped at one of the many dock boys, nervously awaiting boats to come and moor up at the harbour. The sailor flung the rope at him with great force, almost knocking the child off his feet as he attempted to catch it with both hands.

"They get worse every fuckin' year." He snarled as the poor boy desperately moored the boat.

The sailors little boat had traversed far and wide upon the request of a very... unique customer. The sailor only accepted the greatest sum of coin for such a venture, a sum of which he'd be sure to have gambled away by the next morrow.

"Right, 'ere we are." He grumbled "Ischyrr. Now lets see that gold." He continued greedily, holding out his dirty, weatherbeaten palms.

The customer slowly opened his eyes, trying to believe his nostrils as he inhaled the overwhelming stench of tuna. Calmly, he took to his feet, his hands clasped together softly. He stepped off onto the mossy cobblestone dock, scanning the harbour silently.

"Oi. Don't 'ave all day." The sailor demanded before sending a globule of spit surging into the water below.

Omi reached into his pouch before procuring a small bag, filled with ample gold pieces. He softly hovered it above the sailors hands, before he recklessly grabbed the gold from his grip. He chuckled to himself proudly as he untied the bag, letting several golden pieces cascade down into his palm. "Oh-ho-ho. That's gorgeous that is..." He marvelled. "Heh... You don't say much, but you gots a lot'a gold, and I LIKES alotta gold." He continued with a hint of a chuckle, snorting at timely intervals. "Whats your name anyw-" The sailor paused as he lifted his head, looking left and right in a state of confusion as he searched for his affluent friend, but alas he was long gone.

Omi was gently drifting through the winding streets as the Sailor talked to himself, his hood bowing low over his face as he searched for answers.

What did that vision all those nights ago mean? What was it that he was so destined to seek?

Vælling

07-28-2014, 02:26 AM

Of all the many senses the human body entertained, smell was perhaps the most gratifying of them.

Make no mistake-- Arianrhod deeply cherished the virtues of the other four senses, as any traveler accustomed to wandering the breadth of the land inevitably comes to do. But for all the vivid sights and sounds, tastes and sensations she had encountered in her interminable meandering, she savoured perhaps nothing so much as the tranquil scent of pines, redolent of rosemary's characteristic tang, wafting up to her nostrils as she paced along through a coniferous forest, or the distant saltiness of the ocean carried upon the breeze as she neared the coastline, as she often did in her travels. Suffice to say, over the years, she had experienced many fine scents, and the prospect of new scents once alien to come only made her lifestyle all the sweeter.

That being said, she had to confess that she had never lamented her sense of smell quite like she did upon striding into the boundaries of the demure little town of Ischyrr only to be assailed by the rather immodest reek of what Arianrhod, in her own humble opinion, was inclined to believe was too damn much fish.

Nevertheless-- this was the place, was it not? Arianrhod followed no whim and no map but for the general course of the land, roaming along the organic pathways of its contours and crevices unsullied by roadwork and the unsavoury fatalism of an artificial path's intransigence; this was perhaps the very first time in the whole of her fifty one years that any one place in the world had called out to her in a voice that rivaled the beck of the open road. She was not at all accustomed to being drawn to a single location in particular, and she supposed she would have been remiss to discount the possibility that she was misinterpreting this bizarre allure, the mystifying draw of the town of Ischyrr, out of sheer inexperience-- no, she amended wryly, not inexperience. Gut instinct was what it was-- congenital, divorced of the vagaries of the world and one's shifting place in it-- and though she understood this sensation only in the same way a child clumsily feels around an unfamiliar object to understand its shape, she knew it was nothing if not gut instinct.

It was certainly nothing particularly striking; all around her, what she gathered to be the typical mundanities of small-town life were in full swing, and the townsfolk bustled about to and fro, not one of them given even a second's pause by the badly disfigured bear of a woman lackadaisically wandering through their midst. There was an aire about her-- something intrinsically unassuming, for all her stature and her scarring-- that imparted a veritably preternatural habit of melding into the scenery: perhaps she'd grown so acclimated to admiring the background rather than the foreground that she'd taken to blending into it herself as a matter of routine disposition. She rather appreciated that gift of hers: she didn't mind people-- indeed, she rather liked them, personally-- but she also liked being able to pass unimpeded on the rare occasion that her travels took her through towns and villages, and she liked being able to engage people on her own terms, as she did when she spotted a rather slight young woman attired in accoutrements that very immediately distinguished her from the locals. Fellow travelers always know where the local inn happens to be, after all.

... actually, that really wasn't true at all. Arianrhod merely figured one person was as good as any other, local or otherwise, and if it turned out the small woman couldn't point her to an inn-- well then, perhaps they could look together. Company was always nice, after all. Well, company was sometimes nice.

"Excuse me." Arianrhod's voice emerged a languid drawl as she approached, a good-natured sort of smile quirking at the one corner of her lips that was not paralysed into dispassion. "I don't suppose you know where one might find an inn, or happen to be looking for one?"

Froggy

07-28-2014, 02:44 AM

As she walked along the streets, Anabeth was slowly but surely taking in anything and everything she could before her. The shops, the people she passed, where the beggars stayed, the pick pocketers... everything she could absorb in order to learn more about her new surroundings, or even find the source of the voice. She doubted that it would be this easy to find the source, but it was best to keep her eyes peeled in the event that she was able to spot so much as a clue.

The sound of an unmistakable drawl caught Anabeth's attention as she was walking along the cobblestone streets, looking for an Apothecary, a Pharmaceutical...anything that would have use for a healer's abilities. She had yet to find any, rather instead a strange assortment of shops...a small café` with only a few chairs inside, a little book store that intrigued her more than her pocket desired, and a clothing store. That was all she had been able to see thus far, but she was hopeful that somebody, somewhere in this city could use a healer.

The voice however was enough to disturb her from her own thoughts, and she turned around with a graceful smile on her face despite her tattered, travel worn attire and appearance. "My apologies, Miss. I have yet to come across an Inn, rather, I was looking for an apothecary or a pharmaceutical. I've just arrived and I thought it best to find employment before lodging," she said, blushing a little as though she had given away too much of herself. She'd seen plenty of beggars wandering the streets, and knew that if it came between a night under a roof or a meal she would choose a meal to sustain her energy.

"I am Anabeth, and it seems as though we are going in the same direction. Would like some company until you find an Inn, or I an apothecary?" she asked the woman curiously, still smiling at her. The road continued on for some distance, and she was certain that by the time they came upon the market they were sure to find either an Inn or a place of potential employment.

Wattz

07-28-2014, 05:59 AM

“Good sir, I’ll have a glass of ale, if you please!” Jester smiled down at the barkeep, even when sitting down.

“Hmm…” The barkeep scratched a bit of flaky skin off her chin as she surveyed the tall man in dark armor. He would have appeared more intimidating if it hadn’t been for the goofy smile and bright shock of red hair. Though the barkeep was rarely ever picky about customers, she seemed to accept this newcomer as she continued the conversation. “Ain’t see you before,” she said as she turned to grab the nearest bottle of ale.

“Just passing through. Nice town, this Ischyrr.” Jester noticed that the barkeep took on the distinguished scent of fish, just like the other inhabitants. Pungent, yet refreshing.

“Then what brings you here?” She grabbed a glass, filled it with brackish liquid, and passed it to the stranger.

Jester accepted with a grateful nod. “Oh, just on my way to another town. Nothing much more interesting than that.” Blasé as he tried to make his visit sound, he couldn’t help but smile as he placed the drink to his lips. It was always hard for him to contain his excitement.

“Hmmm…” The look on the barkeep’s face help only mild interest. She left Jester to deal with another customer calling her name.

The ale was average, but Jester appreciated the flavor. He held the drink on his tongue to savor every part of it. After all, this was the taste of the town, the taste of something new, the taste of unknown adventure. As he looked out at the grizzled inhabitants of the bar, Jester knew somewhere in his gut that this was what the dream had called him to. Somehow, this was where he was supposed to be. At last, there was another reason for his travels. There was a reason for his wandering. There was a goal to be discovered somewhere in this town. Jester was determined to give his life purpose once again.

07-28-2014, 01:24 PM

Maybe her master had been right, that this was just some delusion, some sort of deep whim of hers to get out of training. Perhaps it was becoming too hard, maybe he'd been right, maybe this feeling of being called was nothing more then an escape. That the vision was just another dream.

Those thoughts plagued Morana ever since her departure. A journey over an ocean costing a small allowance, given by her master. Disappointment, doubt and coins, his gifts. And the knowledge that he waited when she failed.

Still, she stepped off the boat to arrive in Ischyrr and it felt so real. The call.

Of course then the overwhelming odour of fish assaulted Morana and she scrounged her face up. She waddled down the dock like that until she saw some beggar glance in her general direction. Meekly, she cowered, lowered her eyes to the planks clanking under her feet. Fish and beggars, and lewd sounding dock workers.

Why did you ever leave, Morana?

She wandered out into town, trying to ignore all around her and fade from her senses. But the seafood stench filled her nose until it was all she could think of. She began to dislike fish.

It came painfully clear to Morana she knew nothing about this town, knew no way of trying to locate whatever it was that was here. She spent her time wandering lost, trying to gain confidence to talk to some person. Or well mutter something toward someone!

Think magically, she told herself. When that failed, she almost began to cry, but was struck by an idea. Perhaps Ischyrr had some sort of Wizard, or a Magician, or some type of magical being.

Courage, Morana.

She approached a stranger on a street corner for some knowledge.

Kris

07-29-2014, 01:19 AM

"AND STAY OUT!"

With a thud Ogg Ermin, the "Golden Rod" Tavern had relieved himself of yet another customer. Ogg Ermin was a pretty easy going man which was exactly the reason why everyone stared at the man, now lying on the ground, and wonderd what did he do to upset Ogg Ermin.

"What'cha lookin' et?", the man spited between his broken teeth, "Pis' off!"

He got up, barely, and dust off his clothing.

http://www.bestforfilm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/YourHighnessHero.jpg

He was a small man, with fearsome features and round belly.

One would wonder why was he thrown out?

***

"Sir, if I may so ask, what town is it that I am in?"

"Not here, not here!", came a rather fanatic cry from another beggar, one that Dalegr had probably missed when he approached the others.

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"Don't stay here, leave this town....", the old man looked up to the sky, his hands gesturing for the young boy to leave.

The other three tried to block him from approaching, "Pay him no mind, he is crazy that old coon"

"Old I am! Fool am not! Leave this town boy, while you still can!"

***

http://img4.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20131001211741/storywikmaine/images/9/97/Peasant_Girl_220.png

Watching both Anabeth and Arianrhod a girl quickly stepped closer, wearing a bright smile, "Are you two new here? we don't get many visitors", she frowned but her smiled quickly kicked back in, "If you are looking for a place to stay I would advise you to check the tavern. Ogg is pretty decent person and he has some spare rooms. He is the cheapest you can get here... but... Not the cleanest...

"If you are looking for something better, you're rather go down the east road to "Happy Meadow", Irvine, the owner, is rather sweet, but his wife Felicia is the one running the tabs for him, since poor Irvine is very ill... She is a nasty bat... but the place is rather decent if you get the zings for it..."

Juicesir

07-29-2014, 01:25 AM

Quivers ran down his spine. "What did he mean, don't stay here?" He was confused, frantic even. The mood had turned from comforting to sour in a sweet beat. Suddenly, this place seemed less inviting than what he first thought.

Kris

07-29-2014, 01:31 AM

"Don't listen to him", pushed the other poor man, "Just try your luck on the road. If you have money, everything should work out, if you don't... then... Just don't sleep in the street.... You can never know when a knife would find your back".

"STAY HERE NO MORE!", cried the old man

"Oh, enough of that already", the man leaned closer, "He lost his son some years ago, horrible accident... death tends to rub ya in the wrong way, if you know what I mean... Says he hears voices... and spirits... says his son is suffering in fire... can you believe it?"

The other two man laughed a bit.

"So.. Just go find some place to spend your zings and everything will be fine"

Juicesir

07-29-2014, 01:40 AM

Dal gave a look. Something wasn't right. He didn't quite know, and he couldn't quite say what it was, but the folk in these here alleyways were more skittish than the likes of even that in the capital. He gave a slow and serious nod, picked up his pack, and backed out of the street, not turning to face the unsheltered again until he was upon the main thoroughfare.

What had been once a joyous experience for him was turning into a strange encounter. These people weren't particularly nice. That was his conclusion, the feeling which was reached after his departure. Despite his first thoughts, they were even more disturbed than that of what he was used to. And that wouldn't do.

With no money, he traveled to the tavern of the town, wading into it. It wasn't a very smart idea, but then again he was startled from his earlier encounters. It looked to be the cheapest in town. The "Golden Rod" is what the sign read, though it took him a bit of time to piece together. A small man, with broken teeth, was out on the street just in front of it. He ignored the person and went to the man behind the bar.

"Excuse me, sir," he said, "but have you any rooms for the night?"

07-29-2014, 11:36 AM

"Good.. um," Morana said meekly, approaching a stranger on the street, "erm, morning?"

She faltered, and looked to the side flustered. "I, I," she continued, holding her staff so tightly that her knuckles were white. She huddled her limbs close together, wishing she was even tinier. "I'm looking, for a er, person, someone... Well, what I mean, that, umm.."

If the poor fellow was responding, she was not listening. Caught up within her lack of self-confidence she was unaware of anything. Panicky, she blurted, "is there a wizard in town? Some person who knows magic?"

Crazywolf

07-29-2014, 12:36 PM

Jala felt a wonderful relief to be on dry land again. Though she had grown up near the ocean she had never been to sea before and the voyage to Ishyrr had left her feeling as sick as a stuck pig. As she stood there on the quayside beside the unloading ship she wondered why she was even here. Immediately her mind flashed back to the argument she'd had with her then-lover Raimon several days earlier on the day she had left. She had tried to explain why she had to leave, but then how could she when she didn't truly understand it herself. Raimon had simply told her she was being crazy and then of course voices had been raised and angry words exchanged. Yet the calling she had felt had been unmistakable, even irresistable. And so now here she was standing in a place she didn't know.

Leaving the quayside behind she wandered up into the town still not really knowing what it was that she was looking for. She eyed the cobbles in the street and the arched overhanging houses. Really there didn't seem anything special about this place at all. There were no particular landmarks that jumped out at her. At a loss on where to go she eventually stopped and asked a passing woman to direct her to the nearest tavern. If she going to be staying here a while then the first thing she would need to do was arrange some lodging. The woman in question, a middle-aged housewife, gave her direction to a place called "The Golden Rod". With a brief mutter of thanks she turned and set off where the woman had pointed.

MHCreed

07-29-2014, 01:50 PM

Jormandun jumped from the ship making a loud clang as he hit the ground, and turned to the fellow whom he traveled with from their arctic home. The man turned to him, "Are you sure about this Jor? I mean you don't usually wake up one day and say that you want to be dropped off in some odd fishing city? You sure your not sick?" he asked. Jor laughed.

"If I'm sick, then I'm mad. No disease I can assure you! But alas Karl, the Arctic gets old after a while. Besides, too much.....baggage...back there anyway. Right?" Jor said trying to smile. It was met with a grim and somewhat sad look from Karl.

"You gonna keep your face hidden like that?" Karl asked pointing to his shrouded head.

"Aye. For a time.....maybe it's part of the reason I was called here.....I don't know yet, but i'll find out....and I'll return friend. Stronger than ever." Jor says putting his hand on Karl's shoulder. Karl nods slowly and smiles.

"Then I'll leave you to yourself, and your journey......," Karl puts his opposite arm on Jor's opposite shoulder. "I sense danger Jor.....stay safe." After a nod, Karl departs on the ship the he arrived with Jor on, and heads out. Jor scratches his head and turns towards the city. Jor wandered through many alleyways for numerous hours until he admitted that he would need help finding the local Inn. Jor looked around the street to a group of beggars. He pulled out a silver coin as he approached them.

"Excuse me good people, I have one silver for the person who can bring me to the local Inn."

Vælling

07-29-2014, 10:06 PM

The smile that flitted across the traveler's lips as she turned at Arianrhod's beck was weary, but earnest nonetheless-- and rather suited to such a pretty face, though Arianrhod couldn't deny she'd always had something of a propensity (a weakness, she sometimes wryly wondered, might have been a more appropriate term) for slighter women. But... nah. She wasn't looking for that sort of company at this moment, and though she liked to think she could put on the charm when she wanted to, she rather doubted the woman-- Anabeth, she said her name was-- was looking for that sort of company either.

A less licentious sort of company, though... "I would rather appreciate that," Arianrhod replied amicably, taking up a leisurely pace down the avenue toward the market at Anabeth's side. "My name's Arianrhod, by the way," she added as they went along their way in search of their respective destinations. "I think it's been months, maybe a year, since I've so much as spoken to another person, much less enjoyed their company. Sometimes I forget how nice it is to hear another voice."

Small talk-- little things, of course, but then, that was what made it worthwhile to talk to people at all. Arianrhod wasn't quite sure she'd ever really 'figured people out', so to speak-- to this day she couldn't honestly say she really understood them or why they were the way they were-- but small talk... she could do small talk. Hell, she rather liked to think she'd gotten pretty damn good at it in her own way, cultivated a capacity for it over years of making the most out of each rare opportunity at it that she stumbled upon. It demanded no depth of emotional comprehension from her, no real commitment, nothing she couldn't or wouldn't navigate competently-- as carefree and as breezy, in other words, as an early morning swim in a nice, secluded lake in a glen. And she enjoyed it about as much, too.

And so they went along as such-- or at least, Arianrhod did-- exchanging that sort of easygoing, noncommittal small talk, until another stranger-- a local this time, a rather shabby young woman-- approached them, interjecting with a buoyant sort of smile. Arianrhod returned the smile in her crooked way, and nodded gratefully at her words. The tavern would do-- she was only looking for a place to sit down, rest her boots, and enjoy a beer, after all: she preferred the comforting familiarity of the earth, whether the sands of a secluded beachfront, the leaves and gnarled roots of a woodland, or a meadow's rolling grassland, to the alien embrace of a bed anyhow. She thanked the young woman, and then fluidly added, "I don't reckon you could also point my companion here toward a nearby apothecary."

Froggy

07-31-2014, 02:18 AM

Anabeth smiled when the woman introduced herself; Arianrhod was the first person she had met upon arriving and if it kept up at this rate...who knew who she might meet by the end of the night. "Believe it or not, but you're the first person that I've met since I arrived," she said, smiling still at the woman as they continued to make small talk. She kept glancing on both sides of the street as they walked along the cobblestone street, looking for both a tavern of sorts and an apothecary.

"Why do you go so long without speaking to others?" she asked the woman, looking at her curiously. Sure, people could be crude at times...more often than not, but communication made things a little easier. One could always laugh at the snide remarks later in the day, and cherish the good times spent with others. Still, though, with the amount of small talk the two were making...she could see that the other woman desperately needed some company. She wondered how often Arianrhod traveled, if it was a frequent occurrence for her, and if so...how the woman survived. Surely there was little income produced by traveling, perhaps odd jobs for food and lodging...but not many shrillings to support oneself. No, that couldn't be the woman's occupation, so what brought her to the town?

Before Anabeth could ask what brought her to the well-kept town of fishy smells and beggars, a local woman approached them and pointed them in the direction of a tavern. "Thank you for your kindness miss," Anabeth said gratefully, looking to Arianrhod and smiling. "Perhaps after I find an apothecary to secure employment, I'll join you at the tavern?" she asked her companion, looking curiously at the local who had joined them. Perhaps, hopefully, the woman would know where there was an apothecary.

Crazywolf

07-31-2014, 09:47 AM

Jala continued on her way up the street where the housewife had pointed her. Soon she spied the tavern-sign of The Golden Rod just ahead of her. Still not knowing where else she might go she made her way up to the door and walked in.

On entering the establishment she gazed round at the crowd of patrons, mostly common fisher-folk. Moving forward across the room she approached the bar. The tavern-keeper seemed to be already in conversation with a somewhat lanky teenage boy who was asking about rooms. Curious that she thought. The boy seemed quite young to be travelling on his own. She stood a couple of paces back and waited patiently for him to finish.

Kris

07-31-2014, 12:54 PM

"Golden Rod" Tavern

"Excuse me, sir," Dalegr said, "but have you any rooms for the night?"

Ogg Ermin gave him a long deep stare, his mustache twiddling under his sigh.

http://www.thephotographermovie.com/images/Bartender.png

"10 gold pieces and the room is yours for the night", he bent lower to look into Dalegr eyes, "I am good with faces... I have never seen you around here before, have I?"

Another pause.

"It's not that I don't like to meet new people... It just that lately... there have been so many new faces... I don't like it...", He pointed at Jester, "I'm used to one person drinking that unhealthy... and that person has already been thrown out for the day... Now get me more men like that and I'm closing... moving to a nicer place, like the city of Kalandia, no fish stench there I tell ya".

"Don't you think you had enough already?", he shouted to Jester.

***

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"Is there a wizard in town? Some person who knows magic?"

"Whuzzit?", the man stared at Morana, "Majit? We ain't has no Majit... 'xcept of dat loonie, dealin' wit' wenches and wizches.... Gilliam dat lad name... crazie.... crazie..... "

***

http://img4.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20131001211741/storywikmaine/images/9/97/Peasant_Girl_220.png

"I don't reckon you could also point my companion here toward a nearby apothecary."

"We are but a poor village, each family usually treate itself and head to Lakeside to buy supplies but, well, Felicia is the one we seek for medical immediate supplies, she ain't cheep though... Let's see... There is another man at the west end, running herbal shop. But he is a bit... well.... crazy...", she hid her lips in both of her hands, "I shouldn't speak bad of him... but... they say he has been dealing with the dark craft... Of course... he could be just mad.... I don't trust him. If you insist on looking for him, he is called Gilliam, and his hut is on that hill part, some small distance from the edges of the river".

***

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"Excuse me good people, I have one silver for the person who can bring me to the local Inn."

"Sure I will take up your money any day", said one of the beggars to Jormandun, "But I wonder... Do you want to try your luck with old bat lady Felicia, or have the chance with nasty Ogg Ermin? I will take you to one of these two. Beds they have, but they are people to deal with... choose carefully"

Wattz

07-31-2014, 08:08 PM

The Golden Rod

And just like that, the tavern was in full-swing. Jester watched with passive amusement as a man was kicked out, thrown on his ass into the streets. Plenty of newcomers walked in as well, which just excited the necromancer even more. Here it was again—he could feel it!—the destiny that awaited him in the fish-drenched town. There was more to be had, more to be seen, and he couldn’t wait to meet some of the people that stopped by.

Then he heard it. The little murmurs between two men talking about… him? Jester couldn’t blame them a new face was hard to accept in a town like this. But then…

"Don't you think you had enough already?" the man shouted at him.

“Excuuuse me, but—“ No, no, he had to stop himself. Jester wanted to be a bit snarkier, but his mother had raised him better than that. Sure, he was a bit tipsy, and sure he had a few empty glasses in front of him to prove he’d had quite a bit, but he was not in the least bit belligerent.

“Now, now, sir, I promise I won’t be making a fuss. You won’t have to throw me out like the last kook. Besides, my money’s good, isn’t it? I’m willing to spend a bit more on another drink or two, and if it turns out I need to stay a bit longer I might ask for a room. But you won’t see me causing a riot.” Jester held up both palms as a sign of peace. But there was no guarantee they’d take him at his word.

Vælling

08-01-2014, 05:58 AM

Arianrhod had already opened her mouth to answer Anabeth's query by the time the local woman approached them, and so the question went unaddressed-- not that there was anything particularly interesting about Arianrhod's lack of human interaction, of course. She lent an idle ear to the local woman's directions, but they weren't intended for her-- Arianrhod's expertise with the medical profession, if it even merited such a label, applied only in familiar natural settings where she could identify herbs and medicinal plants of potential of utility for a given situation; she certainly wouldn't prove of much use to an apothecary of all places-- so she merely clasped her hands behind her back and let herself fade into the background again.

As Anabeth thanked the local woman for her answer, however, Arianrhod let her hands fall to her side, and the corner of her lips quirked back in something like a smile as Anabeth turned back towards her. "Perhaps after I find an apothecary to secure employment, I'll join you at the tavern?" she ventured, and Arianrhod gave a cordial nod. "Certainly, you're welcome to," she assented pleasantly-- After all, she adjoined silently, though she felt little compunction to say so aloud. I suspect somehow that I won't be leaving this... fragrant little town quite yet-- not for a little while.

The wanderer bade Anabeth farewell for the time being, and then offered a final quick word of thanks to the local woman for her aid, and then she turned to pace along down the market street. Her hands stuffed into the pockets of her pants, fingers rifling through loose coins (some of these had to be valid currency in these parts, she supposed), Arianrhod once again vanished into the background-- an immense, battle-scarred abnormality in every sense of the word simply evaporating from human perception, silently, unobtrusively, wryly making her way through throngs of living, massing flesh toward the tavern.

"Good evening."

Her drawl was every bit as mildly amicable as ever as she strode on into the tavern; it was a little universe all its own, a microcosm of individuals both local and distinctly foreign, all coagulating like a clot of blood within this dingy little watering hole-- but that appeared, in Arianrhod's experience, to be much the same for most taverns. Wherever there was alcohol, people flocked in droves to drown themselves in it. It had been the longest time before Arianrhod had ever really understood why people seemed so enamoured with a substance that dulled their minds and made the world around them evaporate into a senseless blur, and yet once she'd come to understand the appeal of it, she'd emerged every bit as disgusted with it as she was in waste and want of it.

"Whenever you find the time," Arianrhod mused with a good-natured half-smile, sitting herself down at the bar-- it looked like the tavern owner had his work cut out for him, trading typical bar talk with a couple of the foreigners and bustling about to deliver whatever drinks were demanded of him. "I would rather appreciate a beer."

Crazywolf

08-01-2014, 08:31 AM

Jala raised an eyebrow slightly when the tavern-keeper mention there had been a lot of strangers arriving recently. Interesting that she thought. She wondered if these other strangers had been drawn there the same way as herself. She turned to see the man he yelled at, and what she saw was quite possibly the largest man she had ever seen in her entire life. On top of that he was also sporting a distinctive red mohawk. He was not exactly the type of person you would lose in a crowd.

At that moment another woman walked in, an older woman with greying hair and ragged clothes whose face seemed half paralysed. However another thing that Jala immediately noticed about her was the fact she carried a long-sword. A little worn perhaps but clearly still functional. Obviously there was more to this woman than the physical appearance alone would suggest. The new arrival wasted no time ordering drink.

"And a pint of ale for me as well" Jala added to the barman. With that she pulled up a stool of her own, selecting a spot at the end of the bar not far from the other arrivals.

08-01-2014, 11:30 AM

"Whuzzit?", the man stared at Morana, "Majit? We ain't has no Majit... 'xcept of dat loonie, dealin' wit' wenches and wizches.... Gilliam dat lad name... crazie.... crazie..... "

"There is?" Morana asked back quickly, higher then needed. Surprised but very relieved that there was someone potentially able to explain what she felt. The other details the aged man gave on Gilliam flew over her head as a result, for the moment.

Morana held the man's eye a second, "where can I find Gilliam?"

Quickly her anxiety returned and she found herself looking beyond him once more.

Juicesir

08-01-2014, 03:53 PM

"Oh..." At the statement of ten gold coins, Dal's face and hopes dropped right from his stomach. The one time he had tried to actually stay some place, it actually costs a fortune. Just his luck.

However, the bartender did not seem to notice, as he was inquiring as to whether he had ever seen Dal or not. "No," he said, feebly. The bartender then turned and went on the way that people usually do about nicer places and grasses being greener. Dal had seen it all before. Even people jobs and homes were never satisfied. Always looking for the better place.

And then the bartender called over to a patron. He was a hulking man - huge - with skin like rough leather and hair like... like peaches set on fire! Just the reddest thing Dal'd ever seen! And it was in a standing line! Like a row of trees on his head, red trees. It reminded him of autumn and the times when merchants would bring their carts into town from the countryside. His brown eyes danced with the light of someone having had a bit to drink, but they focused beyond his crooked nose on the bartender who had spoken.

"Oh, uncle!" Right then and there, he made his decision to lie. Here was the most interesting man he had ever seen in his life. This is the person he must have been lead to. This is who he needed to find. And Dal did his best to sell this spur of the moment lie as best he could.

He ran to the hulking man's side, tapping on his armor. "I didn't realize you were here uncle." He turned cheerily to the bartender, a bright grin on his face. "No need for the room for me, sir, I'll be staying with Uncle Mark. That is..." he turned to look into his 'uncle's' face, "if that's alright? I'm sorry I didn't tell you I was coming."

MHCreed

08-01-2014, 05:57 PM

"Why thank ye, my good man. I'd prefer the old hag over the nasty fella." Jormandun said as he walked up to the man and opened his hand. "Here, it's a bit more than I promised, but I was also hoping for information on the latest news from this small town. And besides, it's the duty for all to look after their fellow man." Jormandun said placing a small sack of 20 silver in the man's hand. He'd only have enough to pay for his room a couple of days, but he was sure he'd run into more eventually. Besides, an ally is useful when your new in town. "So tell me your name sir so I may thank you properly." He asked cheerfully. He also inquired about the man himself, the local news or gossip, and why this old woman was such a hag.

Wattz

08-05-2014, 04:12 AM

There he was, a lanky child rushing to his side. Calling him uncle. Jester looked from the bartender to the boy, back to the bartender again. This kid clearly had something to gain from lying. Now, Jester had his own excuse for not getting kicked out. Truly, this was serendipity.

Jester didn’t miss a beat.

“Well, if it isn’t Little Billy!” He ruffled the lanky boy’s golden brown hair with a massive hand, leaving it standing up in all different directions. He lifted the child up and placed him on the seat next to him. “Come on, sit down next to your Uncle… Mark. Yes, your Uncle Mark.” Jester nodded enthusiastically, glad that he managed to remember the fake name.

“Always a pleasure to see you around. Don’t even feel bad about not asking ahead. Ah, but your mother. How’s she been? I hear the bookstore’s been well. Tell me you at least let her know ahead of time you’d be off adventuring with good ol’ Uncle Mark, eh Billy Boy? But enough about that. Let’s get you a tall glass of milk.”

He placed another coin down on the counter in front of the barkeep woman. She went to grab the young lad a glass, then poured him some milk. She set it down in front of the boy.

The man stopped his rambling for a moment to look expectantly at the bartender. “You wouldn’t kick a man out with a kid by his side, wouldja?” He used his best puppy-eyes.

Kris

08-05-2014, 09:49 AM

"Golden Rod" Tavern

http://www.thephotographermovie.com/images/Bartender.png

Jester stopped his rambling for a moment to look expectantly at the bartender. “You wouldn’t kick a man out with a kid by his side, wouldja?”

"Can't say I'm not tempted", said Ogg Ermin, wiping clean a glass he held in his hands.

He was eager to receive the coins before Dalegr has declare the former as a relative. Ogg Ermin gave them both a suspicious glare, but before he could even say anything else, the tavern door opened with another heavy thud, introducing few more people.

The was someone who was ordering a beer, Ogg Ermin titled his head, marking the Ale-Girl to go fill Arianrhod's and Jala's request

To everyone Ogg Ermin noted coldly, almost barking, "Just to let you all know, the pay for staying tonight is 10 coins for a room. It does not cover any extra drink or food you may order."

He seemed unbothered by the fact he might have pushed away his potential clients. Maybe because he knew the day was playing for his favor and the hour of darkness was approaching rather quickly.

They were either going to stay for the night or pass the time outside... and as much as he didn't want to think about it, he knew they were better off protected behind walls.

His walls.

***

The old man simply ignored Morana and walked from there, not giving her an answer or a second glance, leaving the poor girl standing still, shivering, her cheeks red.

"Well, hello there little flower", said a hefty voice, which made the girl flinch and shiver even more, "I wonder why someone as young as you would be interested in mean old Gilliam... ", he paused, studying her before giving a deep bow and a smile made of broken teeth, "I am rather rude, I believe, but I couldn't help hearing what you two were discussing. Did you say...", his eyes moved from side to side as he moved closer, shielding one side of his mouth as he whispered to her, "Magic?"

http://www.bestforfilm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/YourHighnessHero.jpg

***

http://imagecache6.allposters.com/LRG/40/4021/SXUWF00Z.jpg

The poor man led the way and Jormandun followed. Feeling the coins rings in his pocket the man smiled softly, "Name's Marvin. Wasn't always a poor sod, mind you. Sometimes you earn some, sometimes you lose some. Damn disease, killed the little lady, and the boy. Ate my right arm", he showed the lad the scars, "You can't fix shoes if your hands don't work like they used to... You can't do much actually... Years gone by... And you find yourself in the street. It's been already 5... or maybe 6 years..."

The sadness in his voice was visible, "But you can't cry about the past. You gotta move on. Unlike some people, take Felicia for example", he twisted his nose, "True, she wasn't always the brightest sunshine, but she was decent. Running the shop and inn takes great tool if your partner is weak and feeble. I guess her father married her off because of money... But I am sure she would rather have someone else... Everyone knew she had a dear man she loved... But fate was not kind to her...

"But she has truly changed the day she..."

He stopped talk and as he did he even stopped walking.

"Don't ask more about it... but... it was around the same time I lost my family. She had a horrible... stillborn... They say it was so terrible.... demonic... The rumors and the sadness ate at what was left of her... "

08-05-2014, 12:00 PM

He'd just leave, middle of the conversation, walk away. Morana no longer existed to him, frowning she retreated inward. A stigma she'd beheld before, people changing the instant magic was mentioned, it made her cringe. Was she insane to their eyes, or a darkness? Each time the speculation quickly turned to infliction self wounding.

However, she was startled back to her surroundings with the approach of a stranger. Huddling herself, Morana shyly eyed the man. Rarely was she approached at will, and she was in some turmoil as to how to respond. As most people, he spoke of magic in hushed tones. Witchcraft... Devilry.

Though it was pleasant to find someone at least willing to talk.

"Gilliam? Magic?" Morana quietly said, nodding, "yes, that is right."

She eyed him, uncertain to trust him, "can you tell me where he lives?"

Crazywolf

08-05-2014, 12:02 PM

Jala noticed that the tavern-keeper's disposition was not exactly friendly and welcoming. On the other hand in the place she had lived and grown up back home she had encountered numerous men whose bark was far worse. She didn't know whether she would stay yet, it really depended how far she got in finding this person or thing that had brought her here in the first place.

When the ale-girl handed over her drink she muttered her thanks and dropped a couple of coins down on the counter. She took a small sip of the liquid then turned her attention toward the newly-arrived older woman sat beside her. "Excuse me for saying it miss" she commented "but I couldn't help noticing the sword you are carrying. I am guessing therefore that you are no common housewife. Might I ask whether you are local here? Or are you perhaps a visitor to this town the same as myself."

Wattz

08-05-2014, 04:14 PM

Turning out to be a pricey trip... Jester thought as he placed ten coins on the table for Ogg Ermin. He noticed a significant change in the weight of his coin satchel. Maybe he really should lay off the drinks.

"Well, there you have it, kid--I mean, Billy. You've got a room for the night with your ol' Uncle Mark."

Vælling

08-05-2014, 11:07 PM

Well, this old barkeep was quite a character, wasn't he? Arianrhod accepted the beer brought before her by the other barkeeper with a smile and a grunt of thanks, and kicked back a healthy (as the expression goes) gulp of alcohol. She set the bottle down, and wiped across her mouth with the back of her hand, watching as the tavern owner-- Ogg, the local woman had said his name was... what a curiosity of a name, that-- announced the prices of his rooms in the sorta tone of voice that one normally reserved for one's most loathsome adversaries. Well, she couldn't say he'd be winning any 'Nicest Innkeeper In All of Ischyrr' awards any time soon, but she didn't necessarily intend on lingering about long enough in this inn to need a room anyway. After all, she was most comfortable outdoors anyway, even if it was in quite so... uh, aromatic a village as this. She'd make do.

Arianrhod downed another generous swig of booze, appreciating the way it burned down her throat and left nothing to speak for its presence-- almost as much as she resented it. It was a hell of a thing, really; now that she had no reason not to get piss-drunk-- indeed, maybe every reason to do just that-- she found she'd developed the constitution of a goddamn solid stone statue. She'd left slumland city taverns high and dry without the vaguest hint of a slur to her voice or a quiver to her step, which woulda been real helpful a long, long time ago, not so much now.

Oh well. She allowed herself another modest little smile, before finishing off the remainder of her beer and cordially asking if she might have another. It certainly came in handy when it came to drinking games and tavern betting.

She'd just raised the mouth of the bottle to her lips for another drink of its contents when-- rather out of the blue-- somebody approached her. She turned her head, the bottle already midway to her mouth, and her languid gaze fell upon... yet another slight-built attractive young woman. They're just fallin' outta the sky 'round these parts, ain't they? Arianrhod couldn't help but muse wryly. Ah, but she was not to be inurbane with somebody who'd seen fit, for one reason or another, to strike up a conversation with her, even if she found the stranger's question to be rather queer.

"Housewife? Can't really say I am, these days," Arianrhod returned lackadaisically, permitting herself that quick swig of booze before adding with a cordial smile at the one corner of her lips that could actually form the expression, "Nope. Not a local. Same as you very clearly ain't."

Froggy

08-06-2014, 03:25 AM

"Hmm...I suppose I could try my luck with either or, my previous occupation had been an apothetcary's apprentice...so I hope they might find some use of me," she said, offering a small smile. She highly doubted that Felicia, cheap as she sounded, would hire on an apprentice...but at this point, she had nothing more to go on and it was either ask or stay the night on the street. Even the man Gilliam would be better than no leads at all, and she really couldn't make judgments based off of what another person said about them without having met the shop owners at all.

"I think I'll try my luck with both, starting with Felicia. Thank you kindly for your assistance to both myself and my friend," she said, shortly after the other traveler thanked her as well. "Hopefully, with any luck I'll see you at the inn sometime," Anabeth stated, nodding respectfully to both women. "Would you care to travel with me to Felicia's?" she asked the local woman curiously, feeling that it would be rude to simply walk off from her. Who knew what else she could tell Anabeth about this strange new place...why there were so many beggars, why it stunk of fish everywhere one walked... why the place was so pristine, and yet stunk and had beggars. All of those were questions that she was hoping to get answered soon, along with whom had called her to this place.

Crazywolf

08-06-2014, 09:46 AM

Jala noticed that the other woman had quite a thirst for drink. She was already on her second while Jala had barely started the first. There were times she had drunk heavily herself but by and large her line of work required a certain level of alertness. And at that particular moment there was also the unsolved mystery of who or what had called her here playing on her mind.

She eyed the other woman's visage wondering what sickness or misfortune had left her face half paralysed. Meanwhile her reply suggested to Jala that she had in fact once been married, before she became whatever she was now.

Well whatever the older woman's story was it felt a relief to be talking to someone else, and really if she wanted to figure out what had brought her here then surely conversation was the only option. If the other woman was a new arrival in town as well perhaps their reasons to be there could be connected? Back home she was always a bit wary with strangers, again due to her own line of work, but here in this other town no-one yet had a motive to wish her ill. She took a draught of her own drink and gave a casual smile. "So what brings you here to this town?" she asked.

Juicesir

08-06-2014, 03:48 PM

The weak and warm smile which Dal gave was one of relief. "Thank you... Uncle." Dal giggled at this.

In truth, he'd never hit a mark like this before. The older boys were always the ones to take a swing at getting patrons or coins off drunks. But when Dal had needed it most, he went for it, and what's more: it had worked! He didn't quite know what he'd gotten himself into, but he was alright with it.

"So..." he sipped at his mug of milk, "what, uh, what brings you here?" He wanted to add 'mister' to the end of the sentence - it was only polite - but that would have been an odd thing to say to his supposed uncle. It would take a bit of getting used to in terms of pulling this particular con off, but Dal was weirdly satisfied with how it might go. Good feelings were all he had right now, thankfully.

Aureyon

08-06-2014, 05:32 PM

Streets of Ischyrr

“There’s no one following you. You’ve escaped her grasp; she will not find you here.” The newly turned twenty year old woman thought to herself, auburn hair alight like a warm coal in a dying fire as she passed under the various lights of the village before her. It was clear that she was far from wealthy as the clothing on her back was all but torn apart; dirt and travel caked on her apparel like icing on a cake. Soft sounds of flesh meeting earth could be heard as her bare feet carried her through the town.

She could not remember much of how she got here, only that she had escaped from someone…or something that had kept her prisoner. But, something deep within her had told her to come here and this was currently where she felt safest. The world was alive around her with scents that had never before been inhaled by her virgin senses, and with sights that she had never dreamed she would see. It was clear that she was lost and confused, but she managed to make her way through the town unseen for the most part, only seen by the eyes of those that dwell within the shadows.

She was drawn towards a building brimming with lights, music, and laughter; it was a sound of merriment in a world that was otherwise confusing to her, and it was something that drew her in. It called to her like a moth to a flame, and she would heed this call unquestioningly.

The Goldenrod Tavern

As she stepped through the threshold, feeling the abrupt change in atmosphere, she froze mid-stride in the doorway of the building; her sapphire gaze meeting many of those who were enveloped in their various activities within the establishment. She would certainly stand out among those within the building, her clothing all but falling off of her as she made her way hesitantly to a shadowy corner of the tavern, and placing herself as best she could away from the eyes of what appeared to be the owner of the building.

With luck she had escaped drawing too much attention to herself as she made her way through the some-what crowded interior to where she was now seated. Her eyes scanning her surroundings furiously, as if searching for something that was not there.

MHCreed

08-06-2014, 09:31 PM

Jormandun looked grimly towards Marvin. He could sense the pain in the poor man's voice. It was horrid that people in this town were left in such conditions. Jor started to wonder what exactly was the reason behind him being called to this village. "I'm sorry I asked such touchy questions Marvin. I didn't mean to make you remember such terrible things." Jor said consolingly. He placed his hand on the man's shoulder. "Isn't there some kind of clergy that coud help the poor of this village? Or someone?" Jor asked. Even in the glacial villages of his homeland they had people he cared for the sick or poor.

Wattz

08-08-2014, 01:30 AM

“Well Little Billy—” Jester started to speak, took a drink, and then set the glass back on the table. He wiped his mouth with the back of his hand before continuing. “—The strangest thing happened just the other day. I’m out and about, doing whatever it is I do, and then all of a sudden!” Jester snapped his fingers. “I heard it. I mean, I felt it. I felt my destiny calling me here. To this very spot. Right now.”

Jester threw his head back and laughed heartily. He only stopped himself when he noticed that Ogg fellow giving him a dirty eye. Jester smiled sheepishly. No sense in getting kicked out now. He lowered his voice.

“I know it sounds crazy. I’m not much for destiny myself, but how else can it be explained? I’ve never had a dream so compelling, never woken up with something tugging at my chest. It was almost as if I couldn’t help myself…. So, there's nothing much else to do but wait. Wait and see what happens!”

Another swig. Jester was starting to regret being this honest with a stranger, even as young as “Billy.” Saying it out loud almost weakened his resolve and made him sound crazy.

“So, uh… what about you, kid?”

Vælling

08-08-2014, 10:44 PM

Oddly inquisitive, this one, wasn't she? Arianrhod took it in her stride, though of course, she was not about to offer up the honest answer to the stranger's question; she would have been remiss to play her cards so openly. Instead, making quick work of another generous quantity of beer, Arianrhod set the bottle down, and answered, "I wander, here and thereabouts. Every now and then, I find myself happening upon a town, and figure I'll take a moment to rest my legs and have a beer. Today, it just so happened to be Ischyrr." She shrugged her broad shoulders with a wry smile. "Not very interesting, I know, but if you want interesting, you chose the wrong person to approach. If nothing else, there's always Carrothawk over there."

Arianrhod finished off her sentence with another gulp of booze, depriving the bottle of its contents once again. Idly, she shoved a hand into the pocket of her trousers, milling about for perhaps some spare coins and finding none. Guess that means I'm done drinkin' for the day, she sighed somewhat wistfully-- she had more money in her backpack, she was well aware, but even she knew better than to blow all her coin on booze, especially in such uncertain circumstances as had led her to Ischyrr.

It would have to wait until she could get her hands on more-- until she left Ischyrr for the open road again, whenever that came about. After all, there were always means of getting money with the sort of skills Arianrhod had cultivated... one way or another.

Crazywolf

08-09-2014, 09:15 AM

Jala sat and listened to the other woman's brief tale but it didn't really give her any clue as to why she herself was summoned here. She noted that the other woman said nothing of the sword she carried or what she used it for. She wondered if this unassuming older woman was in fact someone's hired muscle, a type of enforcer.

"Well I don't know" she replied, "wandering sounds more interesting than the lives of some, especially those that just stay in one place their entire lives. Excuse me though if I seem a little forward, I do not mean to pry."

She briefly considered following the other woman's example and burying herself in the drink but refrained from doing it. There was something about this place and why she was here and her mind could not stay still until she knew what it was. Her eyes drifted around the room eying the other patrons. Back home she was connected to everyone and everything via the various people she associated with. Here though she knew nothing and no-one. No doubt this town had it's thieves, road-agents and smugglars as well but she doubted she had been drawn here just to dabble in petty crime. Somehow she felt like she was waiting for something to happen.

Locke

08-09-2014, 11:40 AM

The tip of a hood peered from the darkness of the corner of Goldenrod Tavern as Omi silently observed.

There were so many faces, unusually so. Locals? No, wanderers, travellers from all corners of the world, all here. But why?

He watched with disgust as the collection of wanderers threw back their heads and let that poison slick down their throat. Alcohol was forbidden, and a sin larger than most. The Tavern roared with laughter and conversation, but for how much longer? Perhaps some of the other travellers had answers, he would have to keep out a sharp eye if was to learn more about this mysterious crusade he had been foolish enough to embark on.

His eyes darted to the adjacent corner of the tavern as a young woman plunged into its concealing darkness. Her body language highly suggested a desire to not be the subject to attention, and to many she was indeed unnoticed. But not to Omi, Omi didn't miss anything.

She had some sense of urgency, furiously searching for something. There was no doubt about it, she had had the dream too.

So many questions, so little answers. All Omi could do was silently watch, and wait. Patience is the most important virtue of all.

Kris

08-11-2014, 09:53 AM

http://www.bestforfilm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/YourHighnessHero.jpg

"can you tell me where he lives?"

To Morana's surprise the man not only grinned, but started to wonder off. For some reason he walked too fast, advancing as quick as she could master, it was still hard to follow, and she found herself panting.

The place was not in town, or at the edge of town.

It was far off some walking distance.

By the time they stopped it was already dark.

The two stared at the weird house (http://artysmorris.files.wordpress.com/2014/02/house-on-the-hill-2.jpg) at the distance.

"You may want to go there and knock", the man said, smiling, "I hope he would let you in...", he nodded, "That's as far as I can go... you better head there".

***

http://img4.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20131001211741/storywikmaine/images/9/97/Peasant_Girl_220.png

"Would you care to travel with me to Felicia's?"

"Of course, follow me", said the young lady, jumping rather happily as she led Anabeth, "Sooooo... What are you doing here in town anyway? If I may ask?"

***

http://imagecache6.allposters.com/LRG/40/4021/SXUWF00Z.jpg

"Isn't there some kind of clergy that coud help the poor of this village? Or someone?"

"No", said the poor man to Jormandun, "This place is done for... I don't care what that crazy Gilliam is hoping to do.... but...", he sighed, "Foolish me, talking about such Crap... Listen, I got you here, alright?", he said, pointed to the Tavern, "Just get there, put yourself in some warm bed, and may tomorrow you leave and forget about this place forever", the poor man forced himself to smile, "I would rather leave now, if possible", he said kindly, but Jormandun could tell he just wanted to get out of his sight.

***

The Goldenrod Tavern

More new comers entered the Tavern (http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oR6cXMu-vuA/T3N8OtRPDEI/AAAAAAAAA7Q/jC8nVTyPbPo/s1600/artworkTavern.jpg).

The situation was rather suspicious by that time to Ogg Ermin. He was not used to seeing his tavern this full with strangers.

The only three people he knew were Robin, a tall dark man, sitting by himself at the edge of the western wall, and the twins middle-aged blonds, Dion and Lion sitting by a table alone.

As he polished yet another glass, he sighed.

"Don't worry, it's going to get dark soon and Dion, Robin and Lion will leave", whispered his Ale-Lady.

"I know Marin, and yet..."

"You fear for them? Don't worry... They will be safe here, as long as we keep the doors closed".

Ogg Ermin nodded

08-14-2014, 02:04 PM

For the second time in a few minutes, the person decided to walk off mid conversation. Morana was spurred into following by a smile, one full of teeth and nastiness. But it was at least something. She followed him almost at a run, as much pace as her robe allowed, but the stranger was always ahead of her and seemed to move with ease. Hard of breath she eventually caught him halted before a path.

Morana took a moment to catch her breath. She eyed the man, considering probing him with otherworldly senses. He was not normal, this whole town was beginning to feel abnormal. It puzzled her, irked her that she lacked the knowledge to understand. It gave her faith the vision was real.

She was a touch wary and dismissed the idea. Perhaps later, if she was still puzzled after talking with Gilliam.

Looking up the path Morana began to frown, perhaps the man beside her began to feel a little colder. She took of, practically stamping up the path. The further along and over the sea she went, the more she felt cold wind slash at her.

How, absurd. Why, that wasn't flaunting a sense of power at all, showing off to the villagers. It also, to her, seemed rather ridiculous and dangerous to build on such terrain. A small sliver of stone connecting to the main land.

Soon, feeling very frustrated at this Gilliam, Morana was banging on the door with her staff. "I could see those lights on, Gilliam! I have questions."

"I will break the door down if you don't let me in." She added loudly. It was beginning to feel very cold around her.

Kris

08-14-2014, 02:31 PM

"SHHHHH!", cried a voice from behind the door, "Not so loud! You will wake the dead... Not that it will matter anytime soon...".

The door slammed open and before Morana could react she was pulled inside, the door locked behind her.

The room was rather gloomy, few candles beside the windows and that was about it. She squeezed her eyes trying to see the man before her.

Only once he lit few more candles was she able to see all that was within the room.

And the man known as Gilliam.

http://i1089.photobucket.com/albums/i358/livnatkris/UKC/tobenamed6a.png

He was looking around, suspiciously, unsettled...

As if waiting for some monsters to crawl out of the basement or break the window*. As unfocused and alerted as he seemed to be he looked rather impressive. He was about 6 foot tall and he carried himself in a strange dignity that she has yet to see anyone in the city behave as.

His house was... impressive.

http://robattack.files.wordpress.com/2012/01/luxury-home-living-room-design-mega-mansion.jpg

To anyone passing by the house may have seemed to be simple, but it was much different once you were inside. There were paintings on the walls, books in every corner and magnificent mahogany desks.

The sophisticated look of that place must have indicated of this Gilliam as being a scholar or a scribe.

Probably someone who knew magic, or something about it.

Before she could ask however, he grabbed her by her shoulders, glaring deep into her eyes. That made her flinch, but she found herself unable to walk way, much less resist his eyes.
"Where are the others?", he seemed puzzled as he titled his head, his long hair falling around his shoulder's line, "Were you the only one?... How did you find me here? Who led you here?!"

* No "Alone in the Dark" pun was intended. Maybe...

MHCreed

08-14-2014, 03:11 PM

Jor sighed. "Very well friend. I shall prey for you." Jor said removing his hand from the man's shoulder and entering the tavern. Jor worried about what he was told. Just what was wrong with this place? In order to brighten his spirits, Jor let out a hearty laugh as he entered the inn, scanning it as he walked in. He felt a bit tense.

Dnafein

08-15-2014, 12:56 AM

In the darkened section of the tavern Caris sat, a snore was interrupted by a hearty laugh.In old man in a ratty het and travel weary robes stood up and bowed, "Thank you thank you, I'll be here all week. Don't forget to tip your waitress."

He blinked groggily around at his surroundings. His eyes finally landing on Caris, "Well well, what have we here? Are you next on stage?"

Froggy

08-16-2014, 02:23 AM

"Sooooo... What are you doing here in town anyway? If I may ask?"

Anabeth smiled as the two walked along the path, taking note of every shop, every stall, every food stand... and every person that she could, trying to remember as much of it as she could for later. "Just passing through...life was becoming rather...difficult where I was before. Something told me I might have better luck here," she answered, which was mostly true but construed in a way that wouldn't make her seem crazy.

A voice in my head told me to come here.

Yeah, that would fly over real well with the locals if they knew she had come because she was hearing voices. "I'm Anabeth by the way, and you are?" she asked, smiling softly as she realized that she hadn't even introduced herself. They were getting closer to the Lakeside now, the shops were dwindling down and spacing out. They had passed the market at the end, and Anabeth hoped, hoped that Felicia would be the one she sought... but somehow she doubted she would be that fortunate.

Juicesir

08-16-2014, 07:24 PM

This was incredible. This man had experienced the same thing he had! A sort of calling, a drawing to this place. He couldn't believe it. Dal had choked down his drink, trying to not give anything away, but now he stared at this man with open-mouthed wonderment.

"Me too."

He set his glass down. "No really. Everything you just said? About, like, destiny and stuff? About feeling a call or pull? That's why I came here!" He got a little too excited with that last comment, just about shouting it. Thankfully the din of the tavern somewhat covered him. He looked around as if someone might here, suddenly scared and very put off.

"What do you think it means?" He didn't know who this man was, but he knew that this was fated. This meeting of theirs was supposed to happen. Gone was the trepidation he had felt in the alleyway, gone was his uncertainty of what this all was. Whatever it was, this was where he was supposed to be. And that simultaneously frightened and exhilarated him more than he ever had been in his whole life.

Vælling

08-17-2014, 03:19 AM

"Well, I don't know," the young woman mused as Arianrhod drew her hands from their diligent search through the recesses of her pockets in pursuit of coin. "Wandering sounds more interesting than the lives of some, especially those that just stay in one place their entire lives. Excuse me though if I seem a little forward, I do not mean to pry."

"Not at all," Arianrhod shook her head, and waved aside those concerns good-naturedly. "I don't mind. Good conversation's in short supply off the beaten path, so I enjoy it when I come upon it." She leaned back in her seat a little, the poor little wooden thing creaking beneath her considerable weight, before adding, "I suppose anything's more interesting than simply living out the whole of your life beneath the same sky and over the same soil. But that sort of sedentary existence was..." A wry smirk curled at the corner of her lip. "Never quite for me."

She left it at that-- what more was there really to say, after all?-- and took another glance around the tavern. The place was taking in customers like a ship with a gaping hole through the hull takes on water. Mostly foreigners, too, at that, Arianrhod observed lukewarmly; it was very much evident, as much in their mannerisms as in their accoutrements. Anybody walking around for an evening on the town attired from the neck down in full plate armour was either the laughingstock of the town-- somebody looked upon as much with pity by the kindly for their obviously diminished mental faculties as with derision by the cruel-- or simply not from around here. In the particular case of the carrot-topped individual here, Arianrhod was going to presume the latter.

It didn't hurt that the kid beside him was pretty much hollering to the entire tavern about exactly that. Arianrhod permitted a reserved little chuckle, and might have grunted something to the tune of 'kids, eh?' if not for the fact that she caught just what that kid was hollering about.

Destiny. A call. A pull. Arianrhod's brow quirked just a tad bit upward in curiosity: it sounded an awful lot like whatever had brought the kid, and the one in the armour at that, to this town was the same thing that'd led Arianrhod from her aimless ramblings throughout the land to the very same place. The plot thickens, she noted drolly, and wondered how many other foreigners she'd encountered around here had ended up in Ischyrr compelled by much the same force. Perhaps Anabeth, from before-- maybe Arianrhod would bring it up if she did meet her here later-- and perhaps....

Arianrhod leaned forward, elbows resting upon the bar as she turned to face the young woman beside her again. "Don't reckon any of this talk of destiny and calling means anything to you, does it," she drawled, as dispassionate an inquiry as it was calculated.

Crazywolf

08-17-2014, 09:40 AM

Jala too had heard the kid raising his voice. She had felt it curious from that start that a kid so young was travelling alone like that. And of course the mohawk guy, supposedly his uncle, was an exotic specimen all unto himself. And then of course there were others in the room that seemed out of place as well. To hear the kid say those things out loud gave her a sense of affirmation.

Still though she hesitated at the older woman's question, looking her carefully in the eye and wondering how far she could trust her. She couldn't see any direct risk to opening up but still felt a slight bit cautious, after all she didn't want to give off an impression to her new companion of being crazy, she'd done that already with Raimon and once was bad enough. "What if I said it did" she replied slowly. She looked carefully at the other woman to see her reaction.

Dnafein

08-17-2014, 11:17 AM

The old man slipped away from the quiet woman, abandoning the char he was napping in. His own eyes darted about the room; he too noticed the large number of uncommonality to the common room. His eyes scanned the main door as he over heard Arianrhod's dispassionate question as he wandered the room.

He leaned over sticking his head between the two women talking after Jala responded. "Fate, Destiny, Predestination, Chance; Fllm Flam and poppycock! Curiousity... That what drives." He leaned back and scanned the room again eyeing his fellow strangers. "Does anyone else smell a buffet?"

08-17-2014, 12:14 PM

Waking the dead, it won't matter soon?

Words that worried her but Morana did not have a moment to dwell. Quickly she was dragged inside to a dully lit room. There she could only barely make out the man, Gilliam. Her eyes did not wander from him to inspect the living quarters of his home, already she had been impressed by his housing.

Had he expressed just the sense of arrogance she'd depicted from spying his home prior she might have wilted back to her socially awkward self. Instead he displayed a skittish de-meaner, unsettled and concerned by something. It seemed to cling to him and diminished what might have been overbearing pride. She remembered his initial words.

He grabbed her tight and asked some vague questions at her, glaring into her soul. Morana glared back, shoving him hardly in the stomach. The air around her remained cold.

"Talk sense, I know of nothing you speak of," she said at him. "I have come to speak to you, and I am alone. And I am mighty curious. About this," she lifted a hand up waving it to indicate the house, "what insanity is this?

"This dwelling of yours, upon a cliff face no sane person would have ever build on. Have you ever spoken to the villagers - 'Crazy, crazy Gilliam' - I thought it was common practice for us magical people to not draw attention to ourselves. Be as normal as we could be." She accused staring intensely at him.

Kris

08-25-2014, 06:50 PM

http://img4.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20131001211741/storywikmaine/images/9/97/Peasant_Girl_220.png

"Just passing through...life was becoming rather...difficult where I was before. Something told me I might have better luck here"

"Ah! yes! yes! Of course!", the young lady smiled, "That's why most of the people are even appearing at our door steps, mind you not many stay..."

She bit her lips and forced herself to smile when she realized she might have said too much, "Of course... No one wants to stay in such poor place", her smile seemed... convincing...

They walked further before Anabeth spoke again, "I'm Anabeth by the way, and you are?"

"Oh! How silly of me, I have completely forgot to introduce myself, my name is-", Before the woman could speak, she noticed Felicia's inn (http://www.historywebsite.co.uk/articles/oldhouses/BarrelInn.gif), right outside, waited a stern looking woman.

http://thecount.com/wp-content/uploads/w-magazine-drew-barrymore-04.jpg

The young lass that walked Anabeth to the Inn looked nervous. She swallowed hard before taking few steps back, "Well, Miss Anabeth, if you'll excuse me..."

"Don't bother going after her", said Felicia, "It would be better if you just let her be". Felicia looked around, "It's going to get dark, but you sought me out. I have only one condition. You stay the night here and won't leave until morning... don't ask any questions, if you were few hours early I wouldn't have minded... But... I won't take it upon me to send you off at night... Now come inside, or leave me be", she told Anabeth.

***

http://i1089.photobucket.com/albums/i358/livnatkris/UKC/tobenamed6a.png

Gilliam looked at Morana, "If you are here, the rest most be here as well. I have summoned many... I wonder how many answered the call...".

He walked few steps and took out a leather bag (http://eurochooice.com/ac2.jpg) from one of the many cupboards. He quickly filled it up with few books, quills, inks, potions... other stuff that Morana couldn't catch glimpse of... but all of that led her to believe that Gilliam indeed knew a thing or two about magic.

"Forgive my rudness, but there isn't much time. If they are outside they shall come to harm", he opened the door of his house, "I promise to explain once we save whoever we can tonight... Now let us make haste to town".

Wattz

08-26-2014, 04:37 AM

“It means… well…” Jester tapped his chin as he tried to parse out the child’s words. This was more than he could have ever hoped for. Fate, indeed! “Well, I’m not sure what it means! But I suppose that’s half the journey, right? Who knows what lies in store for us. For everyone here. Perhaps we should let our words ring clear. What if there are others just like us? What if they’ve heard the very same call we have? I mean just look at these folks.”

Jester pointed around the tavern, trying to gather as much attention as possible without singling anyone out in particular. “Destiny could be calling each and every one of us!” Jester let his voice rise just a bit above the noise of the crowd. At this point, he didn’t care who noticed or not. It was his hope to gather any and all attention to this very spot. He didn’t even mind the angry stare he got out of Ogg.

“Whatever it means, Little Billy, it means we’ve got quite a bit cut out for us!” He laughed, long and loud and clear.

Vælling

08-26-2014, 06:57 AM

Now, Arianrhod had seen some shit in her years, and she liked to think she'd taken a fair bit of wisdom from that shit. Living on the road as long as she had, you kinda get a... a sense for things, so to speak. You come to glimpse a thing or two about the way the world works. Arianrhod wasn't much one for books, but she reckoned it wasn't much unlike how if you read enough books, you eventually found yourself picking up on particular tropes and turns that seemed to consistently rear their heads across the pages, with similar consequences unique to each. Sorta like how whenever the villain, in their penultimate battle with the protagonist of the story, declares that they cannot be destroyed, that they are invincible and indestructible, they're pretty much guaranteed to kick the bucket about five minutes later-- call it the law of narrative standards if you will.

But I digress. Point was, over the years, Arianrhod had gotten a pretty good idea about when it was about time to get the fuck outta Dodge: as it turned out, it was right around the time the nutcase in full-suit pitch black plate armour and flaming orange mohawk took to hollering at everybody within a mile's radius.

"Well, that's my cue to exit stage left," she mused pleasantly, turning back to face the woman beside her with a good-natured smile. "I hate to so unceremoniously drop a good conversation-- and I particularly hate to leave a question hanging-- but I've seen enough taverns to know that a drunken crackpot bellowing their lungs out at everybody around 'em ain't exactly the augur of good fortunes. But thanks for the company, nonetheless." She offered up a cursory little motion of the hand in farewell as she clambered back on up to her feet, heaving her bulk from the bar seat and turning to make her leave, out from the warmth and din of the tavern into the cool, quiet air of the Ischyrr evening.

Of course, it was not just that said drunken crackpot had seen fit to begin raving over the din of the tavern-- the content of his rambling was no less... disquieting? No, that placed more capacity to affect than Arianrhod generally assigned to anything beyond her own skin. Irksome, perhaps more accurately. Destiny, calling-- these words had come up more times this past evening than Arianrhod liked, certainly too frequently for her to write it off as nothing much more than mere happenstance, coincidence, a mundane bit of chance. The world didn't work that way. Something must have been going on here.

But whatever it was, it had nothing to do with Arianrhod. She was just a plain old patron of the open road, after all. Destiny wanted nothing to do with her.

Crazywolf

08-26-2014, 01:16 PM

Jala found her conversation with the other woman abruptly interrupted by a strange old man with tatty brown robes and waggly grey beard. A man who bizzarely also appeared to be wearing a nightcap. With his comments she wasn't quite sure how to respond. Neither was she sure how to react to the Mohawk guy who was now talking loudly on the same subject. She had to admit never really believed in the idea of destiny, but neither could she attribute her feeling to mere curiosity. Even if it was not destiny itself that called her here then it was definitely something or someone.

It was at that point that the other woman politely made her excuses and left. God she must think I'm crazy as well Jala thought to herself. At the same time though she knew in herself she wasn't going mad, after all the kid and Mohawk guy had both quite clearly felt the same thing. Even so there were still so many unanswered questions.

She looked over again at the old man in brown robes. "So mister you seem to know a lot about the human condition" she replied. "What brings a fellow like you to a place like this?"

08-27-2014, 12:22 PM

Morana froze, letting her previous line of questioning fall through. So it was this man who had summoned her to town, her vision had been a real manifestation opposed to a dream as proposed by her master. Yet, he did not know her. Does he know any of these other supposed summons?

She watched him quickly put together some form of pack, materials her master might have used at some point. She may have understood more of Gilliam's intentions had she shown more attention in lessons.

Morana didn't even bother saying that she might forgive him. She was too perplexed, too concerned all of a sudden. The air around her cooling again. Tugging gusts once more catching her robes, she lead the way down the stone path. Shouting over the sounds of the waves below and to keep the wind from snatching her words away, she voiced her newest concerns without looking at Gilliam.

"So. You send out this calling. To people you don't know, not their name, nor what they look like, nor who they are. And then you do not wait for them. Do not meet them in town." There was more coldness in the air, not just from the wind. "And you just informed me, that there is some form of danger in town during the night, correct?"

Incompetence. "You looked old in the vision."

Froggy

08-27-2014, 01:16 PM

Anabeth looked quizically at the woman when she said that was the reason why most came, though few stayed. She was curious, and was about to ask for the woman to elaborate, but then she said nobody wanted to stay in such a poor town. She seemed...strange, but Anabeth couldn't help but wonder what reason she had been summoned here for.

She was just about to introduce herself when they finally came upon the Inn, a stern looking woman standing outside as though she had been expecting her. The woman she had spent the evening with looked nervous, taking a step back from the inn. Part of her wondered just how safe she would be at the inn, given her reaction.

Another part, as Felicia told her to leave the woman be, wondered how safe the woman would be. In front of her was shelter for the evening, perhaps longer, and hopefully food. Maybe even employment and the answers to her summons. Behind her, though...she couldn't help but feel the need to stay with the woman, placing herself in a position of self doubt. Something told her to protect the woman, but from what? And what about Felicia?

Anabeth sighed and looked back at Felicia, smiling softly. "I am sorry for your time, madame...it wouldn't feel right toleave my companion alone," she said, frowning a little. "Perhaps, if you are willing, we could meet again tomorrow?" She asked, looking hopeful. She thanked Felicia for her time and ran off after the woman. "Why did you look so nervous back there?" She asked her. She looked around her surroundings and noticed that it was getting rather dark, and that there was a bit of a chill in the air. "Where are you going for the evening?" She asked, looking concerned.

Dnafein

08-29-2014, 02:00 AM

Jala looked over again at the old man in brown robes. "So mister you seem to know a lot about the human condition" she replied. "What brings a fellow like you to a place like this?"

He blinked at the question. After a moment he began, "I heard tales of your.. No no that'll never work shes not a local... hmm" his fingers stroked his beard as he tried to come up with an appropriate answer. "Nope; nope; never believe that... AHA!"

He refocused his eyes on Jala and smiled at her. "Hello dearie, could you tell me where I am?"

Crazywolf

08-31-2014, 09:09 AM

Co-post by Crazywolf & Dnafein

Jala wondered if the old man she had taken for a mild eccentric might actually be senile, or perhaps he had just been smoking the wrong kind of leaf.

"This town is Ischyrr" she replied politely. "I take it then that you don't actually live here."

"Live here? Ha ha... No. Might die here" he nodded, "Haven't decided yet, lots of options at my age. Where, why, what sauce to marinate in, what to serve on the side; So many pot roast recipes include vegetables what do you serve?"

Jala gave a sigh and rolled her eyes. Why did she always attract the crazy ones.

"Sorry but I'm afraid I don't work here" she replied. "Umm in fact if you would possibly excuse me I think I see a couple of my friends over there."

Finbaz nodded, "Yes, yes, imaginary friends. We all have a few of those. You'll be back." He tapped the side of his nose and winked. "They all come back. At the very least you'll come back to find out what I'd serve with a pot roast...." His eyes darted around the room again. "I still don't know where the buffet is."

Juicesir

09-02-2014, 11:30 PM

Dal laughed nervously as his newly adopted uncle laughed harder. The man had the look of a riotous lunatic, even more so now that the boy was up close to his side. And yet, discouragement did not come, nor intimidation. He could only feel safe. A very strange safe.

The nervousness dissipated with the laughter, and a buzz came about his head. His life was turning very odd. "So..." he said, anxiously aware that he had not a singular idea about how to handle the new road of fate now laid before them, "what do we do, now that we know what it somewhat means?" It was awkward phrasing, but he was still young. A life of linguistic usage was not behind him. Many phrases and understandings of speech were still to come, and his voice now struggled to encapsulate this idea which was so much larger than he had the capacity to enunciate upon.

Crazywolf

09-05-2014, 10:24 AM

Edging herself away from the robed figure Jala approached the table where the young boy and the huge guy with the Mohawk were sitting. "Hi" she introduced herself, "I heard you guys talking a second ago about being called here. I myself was called here as well. If you would permit me to join you then perhaps somehow we can try and figure out the answers between us."

Kris

09-06-2014, 04:12 PM

http://cdn.desktopwallpapers4.me/media/thumbs_400x250/2/17069.jpg

Ischyrr-night

Morana looked at the city that unfold before her eyes. It had been just few hours ago that she had first entered and the nightfall was more than enough to change the city appearance completely.

She took few steps only to find out that something was blocking their path.

"I suspect you can feel it", Gilliam said. He bent down and lifted his two hands before him, his eyes never averting from what lies before him, "I was the one to put the barrier... a safe measure... for keeping them in..."

http://i1089.photobucket.com/albums/i358/livnatkris/UKC/tobenamed6a.png

The danger. The danger was in town.

He sighed, "By the elements, I do hope we are not too late... ", he took a deep breath, "As for your questions, yes, I have summoned a wide call... and I believe they are here and will need my guidance. The same goes for you".

While he was working Morana couldn't help ans notice that he had completely ignored her remark about him appearing older in the vision.

Was this Gilliam... a trustworthy fellow?

***

http://thecount.com/wp-content/uploads/w-magazine-drew-barrymore-04.jpg

Felicia shook her head and tossed her hands in the air. Whatever was to befall the lass was not of her concern. She closed the door behind her and never looked back.

***

"Where are you going for the evening?"

http://img4.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20131001211741/storywikmaine/images/9/97/Peasant_Girl_220.png

The girl turned for Anabeth and without even understanding why Anabeth felt the need to hug herself, to try and brush away waves of cold.

Was it because of the night strange's breeze? Was it because of... fear...!?!

The girl before her smiled and Anabeth noticed that her smile appeared to be a bit too wide, slowly crossing over the edge of possible smile lines. Anabeth legs were flinching back, but aside of small steps her body was frozen solid.

It was getting even colder.

The girl now place a hand over Anabeth's cheeck and Anabeth gasped. It was unnaturally cold. This feeling urged a suppressed memory. Once, at some point, Anabeth felt this touch. A patient touch.... A dying patient touch...

Another gasp.

The girl before her was turning to be blurry... as if the lines on her body were ethereal. She could see the skulls and bones... As if her body was just a reflection upon a corpse...

Was she a ghost?!

Anabeth felt tired. Her legs trembled and her body was icy cold. Her breathing turned into steam and her lips purple.

She was dying.

The girl before her opened her mouth few times and she saw some kind of energy waves stream from her into this girl's lips.

She was draining her... draining her life... She was killing her....

She had to fight... fight to stay awake...

Help was sure to be found... help was sure to be..

to be found...

***

http://www.thephotographermovie.com/images/Bartender.png

At last they left.

Ogg Ermin watched as Robin, Dion and Lion stepped outside leaving only his new respected guests inside the tavern with him.

Another man came by the doors and he was the last to enter. Ogg Ermin heard him say that his name was Fulgrim Davinori, a Mercenary for hire.

Ogg Ermin marked his Ale-girl to bolt the doors, watching with some degree of sadness as one of the guest left.

"That silly girl leaving outside", he sighed, "Marin", he said to the Ale-girl, "The fucking noises are about to begin... don't let anyone out of here! They can and will get inside if they smell flesh... and blood". He knew what was waiting outside and he feared for the worse.

Not long after he finished his warning that inhuman screeches and Hallowing were sounded outside.

Ogg Ermin gave all his guests a deep stare, but provided no explanation, "Best you go rest...", he gave them a friendly advice, his hands shaking as he was cleaning yet another glass, "All should clear comes morning".

***

If she didn't already, Arianrhod was to meet them... to hear them... to know their hunger...

http://www.cbc.ca/daybreaksouth/images/ghosts.jpg

But there was no escape out of town, the city's magical barriers were making sure of it. She may run into Gilliam and Morana soon, or maybe meet and aid Anabeth? Or maybe meet the same fate?

Vælling

09-08-2014, 10:00 PM

"Now this, you don't see every day."

Arianrhod stared at the odd figures just a stone's throw away from her-- ghosts of some sort? They certainly looked the part. Granted, Arianrhod had never seen a ghost before, and so she was hardly an authority on the subject-- but she had heard her fair share of folklore and fables in her travels, and ghosts figured into quite a number of them. The general consensus of those old tales, passed down from storyteller to storyteller, perhaps around a campfire, or in the warmth of a tavern alongside a glass of mead, appeared to be that when ghosts showed up, it was a pretty good indication that the gig was up and it was right about time to get the fuck out.

Those stories had also illustrated, to varying lengths of detail, just what happened to the unfortunate whelp who found themselves in the clutches of ghosts, and sure, Arianrhod liked to think herself something of a curious sort, but she was gonna have to pass on investigating the veracity of those claims herself. "This is normally where I'd fire off some sort of witty one-liner before making a swift and slick getaway," the aging wanderer mused. "But frankly, I think I'll have to make an exception here and skip to the swift and slick getaway." And with that, very swiftly and very slickly, Arianrhod turned right around and took off sprinting.

She wasn't quite sure just how long she was running-- she'd figured she'd stop once the sound of otherworldly screeching became more and more distant, and then finally abated, except as far as she ran it never quite did. Typical. She couldn't help but be just a little bit amused at her own predicament-- Wandered right on into a fish-town full of the dead. Well, I guess after this many years of walking around, it was bound to happen. Well, call or no call, she sure as hell wasn't stickin' around here any longer: the stench of fish she could stomach, but ghosts-- that was some shit Arianrhod wasn't gonna put up with. That was some 'fuck that I'm out' shit right there. That was--

Alas, the world would have to go ignorant of what else that was, because right about that moment Arianrhod slammed full-speed ahead right into a whole lotta nothing at all that seemed to lie between herself and the road out of town.

She staggered back, disoriented for just a flash of a second before she recovered. Huh. She reached a hand out tentatively, cautiously, and continued to extend her arm until she found her fingertips pressing up against... something. Some barrier that she couldn't see-- she walked from side to side, running her hand along the length of the barrier, just long enough to realise that it could very well have extended around the whole of the town. "Now that's just not fair," the wanderer insisted, but there was nothing to be done of it: those ghosts were still out there, after all. They'd probably already made quick work of the folks back in that i--

Wait. Arianrhod's brow furrowed as a thought occurred to her. Now granted, she hadn't exactly stuck around long enough to get a good look, but none of the ghosts had seemed willing to try and get into the inn-- hell, if anything, they'd shied away from it. Because... perhaps because there was light in there? Warmth-- or more accurately, fire? And to think that they had also emerged only after the sun had long since vanished beyond the horizon... which was kinda cliche, sure, but then again, Arianrhod hardly thought a ghost going 'OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO' in broad fucking daylight was exactly a thing of horror and legend. Not the point!

It was worth a try, if only because she was beginning to suspect somebody had gone to a certain length to guarantee nobody could get out of this town alive, not if this barrier was any indication. She knelt down onto the ground on one knee and slung her backpack off of her shoulders, setting it down before herself. Her sword would be of no use to her here, she was sure, but a traveler was always prepared for all eventualities... even if they didn't know it. She pulled open its largest pouch, and reached into it, pulling out a wooden stave, one end tightly wrapped in a length of wax-soaked hessian, and along with it a small box of matches. Well, I was planning on using this to check out those caves off west, but I'm sure the caves'll understand that I came down with a bad case of 'magically trapped in a literal ghost-town'... Arianrhod struck the match, and then brought it to the hessian head of the torch, and the white fabric went alight in a blaze. She allowed a wry half-smile, and replaced the matches before clambering up to her feet and slinging her backpack over her broad shoulder once again.

Now to do a little exploring. She turned, and made for the road back into town.

The streets were devoid of life by the time Arianrhod had made her way back into the main body of Ischyrr. I suppose the townsfolk must have known about this whole ghost gig, she mused-- a recurring event, maybe? Some warning might have been nice, y'know. Nothing too big: maybe a little sign by the road leading into town, something to the tune of 'Ischyrr: Come for the world-famous stench of fish, stay because ghosts have devoured your soul'. Something helpful like that.

Though the incessant shrieking of what Arianrhod presumed to be the dead remained heavy on the air, she encountered neither living nor dead souls as she returned to the fringes of town and traced down its dark and empty streets, the flame of her torch illuminating her way. Kind of a bummer, really; she'd been rather looking forward to testing out her hypothesis and seeing if the flame would either drive the ghosts away or... uh, just end with her getting ignominiously killed. One or the other, really.

Right on cue, just as she began to wonder if she needed to find the 'chic' part of town-- y'know, the place where all the cool ghosts hung out-- she turned a corner and came upon a familiar face. Namely, Anabeth, though it was just a little difficult to be certain since Arianrhod's view happened to be obscured by a healthy helping of ghost in the way. From this vantage point, however, Arianrhod could definitely tell that Anabeth was hardly in the most advantageous of situations: she could see little wisps of something emerging from the pores of her skin, draining into the ghost's mouth, and with each one that left her body, Anabeth seemed to be growing frailer and frailer.

Arianrhod smiled. Seemed like a good opportunity to test her little theory out.

"Well, I sure hope this works," she drawled as she strode on up to the ghost and then shoved the flame of the torch into its incorporeal body. "'cause otherwise I reckon I'm gonna look pretty damn silly."

09-11-2014, 01:19 PM

Morana was having trouble containing her frustrations. Becoming more aware of Gilliam's actions caused her agitation to be felt in the cooling air around her. Stomping down the track after he'd allowed her entrance back into town Morana's thoughts were a savage tirade directed toward him.

Well. Yes. Surely keep all of them in. Excellent idea, perfect, works wonders. Perfect sense to keep those summoned inside too, don't want them to fall prey to them. Oh wait. Wait, wait, wait.

Not sure if I fucking want your guidance.

Yet curiosity still urged her forward as he lowered the barrier momentarily. Even with her lacking awareness Morana could still notice the difference Ischyrr, an eerie unnerving sensation now mixed with her confusion of the township. She was sure they would meet the danger soon.

Letting out a breath Morana made another attempt to question him. "Explain as we walk, I need more information. What is this danger?"

Dnafein

09-14-2014, 05:48 PM

Finbaz tilted his head as the sounds echoed through the walls. He sat up straighter and nodded as if along to a beat. When the inn keep spoke of rest the old man looked at him startled. "Are you suggesting I need more sleep because I'm old?"

Finbaz shook his head, "Nope, you'd be wrong sir. Anyway the band just started playing." He gave a firm nod his hat sliding over his eyes. "Dramatic extinguishing of the light. This is gonna be a good show."

Crazywolf

09-16-2014, 03:16 PM

Jala also heard the sound from outside the tavern and was immediately alert and on edge. The disturbing inhuman noises sent a chill running down her spine. She wondered what the hell could be out there.

"Best we go rest?" she challenged Ogg. "That doesn't seem very likely, not until you tell us what the frack is outside making that noise."

Wattz

09-27-2014, 05:05 AM

An excellent question raised by the boy. Unfortunately, he had no idea how to answer. “Perhaps… the answer will have to wait for morning. But… who knows if there will be an answer at all! It is a calling, after all. With any luck, the ‘answer’ will simply come from within ourselves…. Hmm…” Jester trailed off and tapped the side of his head, trying to sort out the thoughts spilling over all at once. There were so many possibilities to consider and not enough time.

Then a stranger approached. She had shoulder length brown hair and one earring peaking out from beneath it. Jester was so ecstatic to have another join the group, he could hardly contain his smile.

“Well of course! Me and Little Billy here could use a third party member—“

But as the tavern emptied out, a chilling sound came from the outside. Jester’s smile disappeared for a moment, then returned with a slight smirk. Even as a necromancer, he never truly got used to the sound of true sorrow from the dead. But what did the sound truly mean? Was it an isolated instance? Was it another addition to the call of destiny? It wouldn’t be safe to roam the city at night.

“But dear old Ogg here,” Jester said in response to the newcomer, “It would be wise to follow his words. Destiny can wait after a good old fashioned siesta, hm?”

He turned to the young boy. Jester dreaded the thought of a young boy facing whatever should be out there. “Are you prepared, Little Billy? To look danger square in the face? To fight against the unknown?”

Kris

09-27-2014, 10:15 AM

Gilliam's voice became raspier by the minute.

Morana couldn't help but noticing the wrinkles that now appeared over the man's hands... For a moment, just briefly... his face appeared somewhat older too...

It looked... a bit like the way he looked in the vision...

He gasped as his hands passed through something unseen, and soon he fell some steps away as he panted under his breath.

He looked up to her, looking his normal self again, "Let us go child... now!"

***

The flames ate at the visage of the girl, and her scream was so deafening that both Arianrhod and Anabeth knelt under the heavy burden of the sound.

Their ears rang long after the sound was gone but they were thankful to learn that there was no sign of the ghost.

Then more voices followed from the near alley. Heavy roars and whistles of the wind. More of these things were coming after them for sure...

The two girls looked at each other and realized there was only one thing left for them to do.

Before long they started to run.

***

Gilliam continued to lead Morana into the local graveyard. Oddly enough, the strange voices and odd eerie feelings she had ever since entering the city had stopped here.

Looking about she noticed few people wondering, but found their walking manner to be somewhat odd.

"Don't rise up your voice... They might notice us and I am not sure I can fight even two of them right now...", said Gilliam.

Morana frowned. Was he going to fight people now too? Is this town really that wicked?! They looked pretty normal to her-

She flinched as she caught a quick glance at few of them.

They looked terrible.. unhealthy... ghosts....

http://www.cbc.ca/daybreaksouth/images/ghosts.jpg

She wanted to vomit, their sight alone was unsettling. She shivered terribly, "What are they?"

"My failure", Gilliam said with a grim expression.

He bent down to pick a small stick. Whisphers escaped his lips as he poured some kind of a red liquid from a small glassy bottle. The stick was on fire, "There is a torch beside the tree, use it to set it on fire".

Morana did as he asked.

With fire guiding their way in the dark they both marched into the graveyard, until Gilliam stopped beside a nameless marble stone. He pressed on it, until it fall down, revealing a hole leading into a hidden stairs.

Morana seemed unsure... Following this guy into the grave, literally, was not the kind of an idea she fancied at the moment.

But then she heard heavy panting and whimpers. Looking around she noticed the swift rustle of steps that belonged to two girls. They looked human enough.

Gilliam eyes opened with a surprise, learning that some of the ghost were after their trail.

"Damn!", he cried, "They are going to bring THEM straight here...", thinking what to do he waved his hands, "Quickly!", he called them and the two followed into the stairs. Before Morana could protest he pushed her deep into the hole.

"Are there any more of you around!?!", Gilliam shouted, "Were there any new people to appear in the town?!".

"I am not sure what to answer...", said Arianrhod, "But there were people staying in the Tavern..."

Gilliam seemed to be considering something as the ghosts were storming toward them, "I have no choice... if you two were out in the night, I fear the others may have gone outside as well..."

"What are we going to do?", Anabeth asked.

"We... Just... just follow the stairs, they won't follow you down there, but please hurry, get down as fast as you can.... Something there can help... go!"

"What about you?"

"I can't free this power anyway... I trust you. If all goes according to plan, we may survive this night!", he put the tombstone back in place and watched as the ground was burying them, "Use the torch and descend", he shouted to the earth, "Quickly".

The growling made Gilliam turned around slowly. Now alone, he looked at the face of the 12 demon spawn wearing human skin that looked at him with dead... yet hungry gazes.

He chuckled, sending his hands into his pocket, removing a scroll, "So... Let us say... that they are all in the tavern... I have just one shoot of teleportation here, and I do want to trust my judgment", he said.

The ghosts looked somewhat confused.

"I mean... Between Ogg Ermin and Felicia I would have picked the former myself... ", he shook his head, "God help me, I hope I won't miss a few tonight... Their deaths will be on my head...", he pulled the scroll, stretching it with his hands to both sides while sweeping the dust clean with a blow from his mouth. He then started to chant, his fingers trailing over words that were written in a language most humans have already forgotten by now.

"Do you know what you say to death?", he smiled as he felt his body disappearing.

The ghost charged but he was already gone.

"Not today!"

***

How rude of him! How rude of him!

The very thought of this arrogant wizard made Morana angrier by the minute. But she had the torch and frankly, she didn't had anything better to do aside of leading the way into the rabbit hole, down, down the stairs, into another unknown.

"Look!", Anabeth called.

http://www.photocase.com/stock-photos/140534-stock-photo-hand-dark-sadness-fingers-sleep-empty.jpg

The tunnel underground was very dark but that being's presence alone was enough to light the whole cave.

The girls stepped closer admiring in awe the sleeping man. He was surrounded by some kind of a transparent magical barrier but his featured were visible.

Maybe a bit... TOO visible...

Exposed even...

Much to their embarrassment, they noticed that his figure was somewhat... very unnatural. His skin was unreasonably pure and smooth, the kind you might expect to see on a new born. He also radiated an aura of peace.

Now the question was... What were they going to do now... if at all...

Maybe Gilliam will just be back and everything will be done with?

***

The Golden Rod Tavern

“Are you prepared, Little Billy? To look danger square in the face? To fight against the unknown?”

WHOOSE!!!

A gust of wind appeared in the middle of the chamber declaring the arrival of a new person, "Now, now, hold on... you might want to wait with this thought a bit", Gilliam chuckled.

http://i1089.photobucket.com/albums/i358/livnatkris/UKC/tobenamed6a.png

Gilliam looked around him. By the number of the people sitting at the tables and the surprise upon Ogg Ermin's face, he realized he came just in time...

Or maybe not in a very good time.

His head slammed hard against the wall as the colossus of muscles, known as Ogg Ermin thrust him hard and rough, "What the fuck are you doing here wizard", his words were full of venom and hate, "Haven't you done enough".

Trying to breath under the squeeze collar shirt, Gilliam twiddle his legs that were now few feet above ground, "Can't... breath.."

Ogg Ermin pressed stronger, "Good. Maybe in your next life you will learn to knock first instead of bursting into someone else's property!"

Gilliam pulled his hand into his coat, removing a shiny golden coin, "I... can... pay...", he tried to smile while gasping for air.

Ogg Ermin tossed him hard and spit some distance away, "Don't need your stinky money, get out!".

Gilliam slowly rose, dusting away his sleeves and pants, "In a moment... I will...", he bowed slowly. He looked around himself and sighed, "Well... I don't know how to better put this, but... if you were called into this town, you were looking for me. Fancy introduction will have to wait for we have three lovely ladies outside waiting for us to aid them... Although I suspect they will be aiding us...", he tried to smile, but the puzzled expressions he gained from all around him made him cough and speak more seriously, "I need your help, would you follow me?"

Juicesir

10-07-2014, 08:36 PM

There were a lot of things said to Dal. A lot of things that happened around him. The welcoming of a new stranger and apparent friend, the screams and somber question of his supposed uncle, and the sudden appearance of a purported wizard. The thing that stuck in Dal's mind, however, was the phrase "three lovely ladies outside waiting for us to aid them."

Now this was a journey worth having. Damsels in distress! Forget what his adopted uncle had said. In Dal's young, very excitable mind, this was the best way any adventure could go!

"To the ends of the earth," said Dal, with a little more wonder and excitement than should the situation warrant.

Froggy

10-08-2014, 02:09 AM

One moment, everything was fine...her greatest concern was wondering where she would lay her head that evening, wondering where her newfound friend would lay their head that evening...then everything turned upside down. Anabeth watched, her facial features slowly but surely mirroring that of shock and horror, as she simply stood there... the woman who's name she never even knew slowly began to shift. It began with her lips, how they seemed to disappear from her face altogether. Then, her very shape became disfigured, her skin dissolving into bone.

She was staring at a ghost, the likes of which she had never even heard of. Yet...there was nothing she could do as her own face became cold, her eyes glossed over, and her body itself began to freeze...she had not the ability to run, only seemingly to stand there as her very life was sucked out of there. She now understood why she had been called there...to be drained by a ghost.

How sad that this is what fate has planned for me, Annabeth thought as she watched the white stream come forth from her lips, an expression of sadness on her face. She was fighting though, trying to stay awake...trying to seek as much life as she could before it was extinguished in itself.

Then something changed.

A bright light came forth, piercing the very center of the ghost and a hellacious scream came forth from the woman's mouth. Anabeth's breath was returning, slowly but surely as color returned to her face and her eyes regained their vibrant hues. There before her stood Arianrhod, wielding a torch of flame that had been used to save her life. Anabeth felt weak, her legs shaking to the core. There were no lights about them now, the city itself had changed completely and she knew it not. Still, she could hear the screeching and it became apparent that they needed to run, and to find a place to stay quick...before they struck again.

Now they were running, running into a graveyard that seemed to be the only place untouched by these...fiends. A man was shouting at them, and a woman was with him. Who were these people and why were they out in this? He told them that they would be safe further down the tunnels, that the ghosts couldn't get them there...but what lay within the tunnels? How far down could they possibly go as they had been dug from underneath the grave?

She heard screeching from above and shivered at the thought of meeting them again, turning to face the others. "Go!" she whispered, taking off down the hall and being willing to find out first- that way at least they knew. Anriahnod had already saved her life once, and she should have died that evening...she was willing to find out what lay beyond, that way...be it good or bad, at least they would know and have a chance out if it turned out for the worse...

Naraness

10-08-2014, 02:48 AM

East. Why did it have to be East? Why couldn't her dream have called her to the North? The West? Anywhere but here. However, as much as the woman willed it to be different... She was stuck here now. The darkness had closed in, and there was no way to escape. Standing in a tiny alleyway between two buildings a foot apart, the rogue laid in the shadows. Her violet hood was drawn over her face, giving her some measure of comfort... A misleading feeling that she could hide. A lump of fear rose in her throat.

Anna Rose was not the type to get scared easily. She had been chased by guards, threatened by bandits, and starved on the streets. She was familiar with the feeling that she could die. But seeing these... these creatures. It chilled her like nothing else. Cold pierced her heart like a blade of ice. A part of her said to run, to seek shelter before she was discovered. But the other half of her screamed to stay, to remain hidden and not draw attention to herself. Frozen in fear, her hands shook as they rested against the cold brick wall to her side, while her body was pressed close to them so that she could remain within the shadows. Her breaths came out in brief white puffs. As she shifted ever so slightly, her short red hair brushed her cheek.

A pair of footsteps rushed in her direction. They were panicked, frenzied... Rose would recognize the pattern of those footsteps anywhere. It was a pattern she knew well. They were running for their lives. The girl froze, her green eyes dancing across the street, searching for those she could hear. Soon their shadows appeared, surrounded by the glow of torchlight. Two women. One older, one younger... Both equally terrified. Surely they were going somewhere safe.

As quiet as a mouse, Anna Rose stepped out from her hiding place, swiftly following just far enough behind that she couldn't be seen. Her soft, supple leather boots made not a sound on the cobblestone road, and the only distinguishable sound she made was the occasional ruffle of her cloak. It fluttered behind her as she ran, keeping about the same pace the other women were.

In the shadows, indistinguishable faces lurked... Reaching for her, causing the chill in the air to grow more and more painful. Maybe it was her fear, or some unknown knowledge inside her... But Anna Rose knew one thing beyond a shadow of a doubt. If they caught her, they would kill her, and she wouldn't be able to protect herself.

Ahead, a graveyard appeared. Her eyes flashed across the scene, but... The women she was following had vanished. Rose gasped as fear struck her. I shouldn't have left. I should have stayed in the alley, no, I should have stayed home! I shouldn't have answered this call. Behind her, she could hear the ghastly moans of the undead. A moment more, and she would have been paralyzed with fear. But Anna Rose broke free, and rushed to the nearest door she could find. It looked like a residence, or a shop... She didn't know, but she pounding on the oak door with all her might, praying that someone inside would help her. "Please! Please help me!" She shouted, looking behind her in terror. "Anyone!"

Chat Noir

10-08-2014, 07:21 AM

This town was bat shit insane. And poor! Why was he here again? No wealthy men to steal from, no ladies to bed, and not even a single person who wasn't incredibly paranoid or out of their minds! Though really, living in a place like this Oberan could almost forgive them. Almost. Fucking crazies. Then again, he was actually here because he'd had a dream. Damn, was he a crazy too? Nah, he was way too smooth to be crazy.

The first person he'd met in this God forsaken town had given him the stink eye and spit at his feet. If that was any indication of the hospitality of the place, which he had indeed taken it as, well then he couldn't trust a single soul that resided here. Hell, he'd almost been willing to stay at the tavern except when he walked past he could hear angry growling and really, who wanted to deal with that?

So instead of just sucking it up, he'd decided that, hey, the smell is awful but the streets are free! You might even find a beggar to swindle! Wow, he was pretty desperate for cash wasn't he. Well that's what happened when you spent all of your (hard and legally earned) money coming to a place in the middle of nowhere that smelled like a fish asshole. Probably. Who knows what a fish asshole smells like.

Anyways, that was a bad fucking idea because, evidently, not only were the people rude, so were the motherfucking ghosts. Ghosts! Real live ghosts with crazy vendettas against people they've never met before! His mind was still stuck on ghosts, honestly. Because ghosts, man. Ghosts!

Still, he had his magic and that had saved his life. Thus far. Good thing he was good at illusions, though, because throwing a bolt of lightning was cool and all but would it really help against ghosts? Would it? Would it really? He didn't think it would. But being able to conceal yourself in plain sight? Yeah that was pretty damn useful. So that's what he did. A simple glamour and boom, no ghost could sense him. Boom. Boom again.

Or that was the idea. It may or may not have worked. He was actually kind of scared, because the ghosts were rather terrifying, so he stayed mostly in the shadows. Of the alleys. Which were also kind of scary. So in all actualities, he was running from one alley to the next because staying in one for too long freaked him out. And no, that isn't a reason to call him a scaredy cat. Being brave is great and all, but not if it gets you killed. If a healthy dose of fear can keep him breathing, then fuck yeah, he's all game for that.

He'd been scurrying around for what seemed like hours, and man did he need to work on his endurance, when he heard frantic shouting. Of the female variety. Never one to leave a lady in distress, he hurried towards the voice and prayed that his magic actually kept him from being noticed. He turned a corner to see a cloaked woman, or so he assumed from the voice, pounding on a door and looking around scared.

His cape billowed behind him as he rushed to her side and grabbed her arm, keeping it from pounding on the door. In a swift motion, he pulled her to the side of the home and into a dark alley which was not much different from any of the others that he'd spent the night in. And didn't that just sound pitiful. He placed his palm over her mouth and moved in close, pushing her against the clay the house was made of.

“Shh,” he whispered. “Yelling and shouting like that, it's as if you want to get bad touched by a freaky apparition. Or do you? Was that the point? My bad if it was. If not, well then you should probably stop letting them all know where you are.” He took his hand back, but stayed close. He wasn't some back alley rapist, after all, and those were the kinds of people associated with pulling ladies into alleys, shoving in close, and covering their mouths. Awkward.

A rustle came from the end of the alley they were closest too and in a panic, he snapped his fingers and cast a glamour on the mystery woman as well. God he hoped that noise wasn't a ghost.

They were just really, really, really fucking creepy.

Crazywolf

10-08-2014, 02:21 PM

"Destiny can wait til after a good old fashioned siesta, hm?”

Jala was about to respond to her new companion that she couldn't possibly sleep until she knew what the frack was making the unearthly noise. But before she could articulate those thoughts she was distracted by the sudden arrival of Gilliam. She had seen wizards performing minor conjouring tricks before, but never like that, never someone who just teleported in out of thin air.

She watched the confrontation between Ogg and Gilliam with interested curiosity wondering what could be the cause of the tavern-keepers obvious hostility. Then came the revelation, the fact that the wizard was the one responsible for calling her there. Of course she had a dozen questions, but right then the man seemed in rather a hurry. But urgency or no she wasn't just going to walk blindly into gods knew what, not without at least some assurance.

"You want us to follow you out there?" she replied. "With those creatures or whatever the heck they are? There had better be a damn good explanation behind all of this."

Dnafein

10-10-2014, 12:43 PM

With a snort Finbaz seemingly jerked back to consciousness. His hat fell from his head his hair wildly sticking up in all directions. His eyes flickered from Gilliam to Jester, Jester to Dal, and Dal to Jala. "Correct me if I'm wrong, but did you not voluntarily show up here as he requested? Are you really going to start questioning him now? This is why we wizards don't socialize..."

The old man got up from his seat and turned his gaze to Ogg. His voice rose sharply as he spoke. "And you! You dare accost a customer who not only showed up to assist you but tripled the amount of custom you normally see in a night. You should be disappointed in yourself, and if this is how you normally behave I shall bid you adeiu." He turned away from Ogg and the others making his way towards the door.

Wattz

10-11-2014, 04:50 AM

“Good lad!” Jester exclaimed as he patted the boy on the shoulder a little too hard. He stepped over to the stranger Gilliam and extended his hand, intending to shake his hand. “Of course we’ll follow you! Destiny awaits, does it not? The name’s Jester, stranger.”

He did not blame the old man for scolding Ogg Ermin as he did. The Innkeeper had been nothing but ornery to each person that wished to stay at the inn. And attacking the wizard? No sense for tact! But Jester sensed the aura of death from all around coming from the outside. “Wait,” he said to the old man. “It would be dangerous for anyone to go alone out there. It may be best if we all face the danger. Together.”

Crazywolf

10-11-2014, 10:06 AM

"Correct me if I'm wrong, but did you not voluntarily show up here as he requested?"

Jala recalled the calling she had felt inside her head. The calling had been powerful and irresistible. Voluntarily was hardly the word she would have used for it. It was more like mental coercion. She stared incredulously at Finbaz as he headed toward the door. Inside she could feel her temper rising. If she didn't get answers very soon then either Gilliam or someone else would feel the consequences and those consequences would not be pretty.

10-11-2014, 12:34 PM

Morana did not look at her new companions. Did not utter words to the pair of them. She held the torch as they descended the stairs. She still felt the cold, not of the ghosts but her own assertion of emotion freezing the air around her.

Rigid, she followed the first woman down. One step after the other, deeper down until it opened further into a tunnel. She did not care for their surroundings at all and kept her eyes on each step as they came. Her thoughts seethed. Taking her away from reality into a morbid realm where upon her wrath raved Gilliam's figure. Denial of information, of understanding, of anything related to an explanation was breading contempt within her.

The torch was flickering as a response to her harsh state. But with light unnaturally already filling the dark void, they no longer required its service. Morana found a place amongst the tunnel stone walls for it to rest.

They had come upon the 'thing' that could help them. On object to Gilliam, like herself, like the others. A man.

Behind a barrier of sorts, he lay resting. Ignoring him altogether Morana's interest was sparked by the barrier. Dark thoughts dropped for more academic pursuits, but a hint of sarcasm remained as she uttered aloud, "of course. Our help is behind a barrier. Wonderful."

The harsh chilling globe that had surrounded her had faded away, the barrier inciting her curiosity. She wondered, what would occur if she touched the barrier, her hand reached out for it...

Kris

10-13-2014, 04:55 PM

Eyes slowly opened.

Arianrhod was bewitched. What was it about this gentle face that looked at her from behind the magical veil?

Their eyes met with expressionless faces from both sizes.

Arianhod's hand reached forward, passing that of Morana by mere seconds, feeling the palm of her hand melting into that of the barrier…

Wait… it wasn't just a feeling of hitting a block… it was more like… her hand was glued into the spell.

Arianhod's eyes grew with a surprise, she wanted to cry for her help, but was too busy trying to free her hand with her other one…

Too afraid to move the girls watched with horror as her friend was slowly sucked into the barrier, her body rising in steams. The process was too quick, before they could even start to react and help the girl a bright explosion sent them both back. They waited for the smoke to drift away before they noticed that Arianhod was no more and so has the barrier.

The man was free, tossed like a rag on the ground.

He was awake now, moaning with pain and confusion.

***

A man's scream was heard as few of the visages were circling around him, eyeing him like mad vultures. And then they jumped on him and started to feed in their unusual manner which made sure nothing was left… not even the dust of the bones.

The sixth victim already.

Gilliam and the men and women who followed him looked from the side and watch with horror at the sight that unfold before them. As much as he tried to look calm, his clothing clearly showed he was terribly shivering.

He already told them the basic; Be slow, breathe less, make less sudden moves. If the worse comes to pass find a source of light or fire.

He told them that they must reach for the near cemetery, but the road seemed dangerous the more paces they took.

"I will explain more later!", was all that he was willing to say to those who were willing to follow. He praised their courage but was sure some of them were probably wishing they had never left.

"To the cemetery, make it as quick as you can, but be careful!", he said, eyeing them all and then he started to run, "GO! GO!", he cried.

As if sensing them, the horrible figures of demonically looking human turned softly around….

And started to give chase.

Naraness

10-13-2014, 09:18 PM

A hand grabbed her wrist, stopping her from banging on the door any further. Rose gasped, but it was too late to do anything. She was swiftly drawn into a dark alley, and her hood fell away from her face as she was pressed against the wall. Her breath caught in her throat, and her peridot eyes were wide with shock. The man's hand covered her mouth, and she discovered that she couldn't move because he was so close to her.

On any normal occasion, she would have assumed he was some alley rapist. But she assumed that when ghosts were floating about, trying to suck the life out of their victims, most people weren't looking for girls to snatch.

She rolled her eyes when he started to chastise her for yelling and screaming, bringing the ghosts right to her. "No I was going to invite them to my house for tea." She muttered as he removed his hand, and she wiped her mouth off. Despite how annoyed she was at him, she was also grateful that he had grabbed her before a ghost did. "For your information, I was hoping someone would let me in to the safety of their house-"

A sudden rustle startled her, and she went absolutely quiet. The man, who appeared to be a rogue just as she was, snapped his fingers and she felt the tingle of magic glide across her skin. He was a magic user? She never would have guessed. But if it was something that would protect her from the undead bobbing around the streets, waiting with their death kisses, then she was thankful for it.

Anna Rose crept towards the alley entrance, peeking down the cobbled streets. Oddly enough, she did see the ghosts, but they weren't coming their way. They were going somewhere else, with hungry looks in their eyes. Did they even have eyes? It was hard to tell beyond the darkness covering their faces.

"They're... Going towards something." Rose whispered, taking a deep breath. She crept back into the alleyway, and looked back at her (rescuer?) companion. "Well what do we do?" She asked, running a hand through her auburn hair. "It sounds like they're chasing other people. We should help them, or find somewhere safe. We can't stay here."

By this time, she had brushed off the initial terror she'd felt when pulled into the alley and was more than happy to take charge and put her foot down. "You have five seconds to decide, dear." Anna said, brushing some dust off her pants. "I don't think it's a good idea for either one of us to be alone with those things out there." Anna jabbed a finger back, towards the open streets. With that, she pulled her hood up and smiled charmingly.

10-14-2014, 10:54 AM

Bright whiteness forced Morana backward, her hand still hovering as if to touch the barrier. Her feet caught in her robe, she staggered and fell to the tunnel floor. Dazed she lay watching smoke dissipate around her. Emotionless she used her staff to rise upward once more.

She noted the barrier gone and the other woman also. She did not account for the other, instead took steps to approach the now freed. He appeared in pain.

She let out a breath. Followed by sarcasm through gritted teeth.

"Of course. Our help causes a death amongst us. Truly wonderful, Gilliam."

Crazywolf

10-14-2014, 06:41 PM

Jala wavered but eventually followed the others out of the tavern the door. The irony was she hadn't been particularly keen to stay at Ogg's place anyway. It reminded her too much of the tavern her mother used to drag her to when she was a small girl. The same mother who had abandoned her to the street when she was just eight years old. But compared with the noises outside Ogg's tavern had suddenly seemed rather more welcoming. On the other hand the thought of simply going back home without any answers was unbearable. For now the only way to get those answers was to follow the wizard. If he didn't live up to his promise then she supposed she could always beat them out of him.

As they moved through the streets she stared round in fear at the ghostly apparitions. It was like a madness risen from the ground. She could feel her heart pounding inside her chest. It reminded her of her worst nightmares, the ones involving the ghosts of sailors, men who many years ago she had helped send to their deaths. It was the one sin she'd committed in her life that she knew could never truly be forgiven, no matter how much she regretted doing it.

She did her best to follow Gilliam's advice and move slowly even though her instincts were screaming at her to run and flee. She stopped and watched in horror as a man caught by the spectres had the life force sucked out of him and then his full body consumed.

When Gilliam told them to run she needed no second invitation. She fled alongside the others heading towards the cemetery as fast as she could.

Minkasha

10-14-2014, 07:32 PM

Icarus was slowly coming to his senses, he was used to the world of forced darkness. But he no longer felt the binds holding him, a sudden jolt of energy striking him in his freedom.

Standing tall, it was almost foreign, yet refreshing to be control of his own body. Looking down, he noticed the two women, beings he had no memory of - in fact, his memory was terrible. His past circled on a man with long flowing hair. But the importance of him lost.

"Are you in any danger?" The women looked confused and worried, while he couldn't help himself perhaps he could help them.

Juicesir

10-21-2014, 08:51 PM

Life was moving too quickly for the boy. What had one moment been a wonderful happenstance wherein he had met the man named Jester had thence developed into many another person congregating with them. More people came, and his mind could not bear the commotion. He felt anxious, the way he did when he had been dragged along to that party so long ago. All the terrible horrors and feelings of that night crept back.

Yet no truly wretched feeling had ever been felt by the boy as when he saw the apparitions. Whatever they were, they seemed to have stepped directly from the darkest nightmare any man could conjure. Dal felt himself shiver and overwhelmed, he did the only thing that was spoken to him. The one thought he could comprehend in the vast, tumultuous happenings which had just occurred.

Run.

He did not recall the start of it. He just knew that some moments after he had witnessed the hellish sight, he was barreling along with the rest of them. On down the roads, on and on. Moving forward without hesitation. He had been towards the front at the start, he was sure of it, but now only coattails and the backs of skirts and leggings were his sight. His short legs, fast as they were, could not keep pace.

His foot nicked the corner of a loose stone, and he was sent sprawling to the ground. More fear gripped the boy now than he had ever had when running from the coppers. This was not dinner or destitution; this was life or death. He tried to stand, but pain only cried from his leg and his mouth. He tumbled back to the ground, now falling away from the safety of the crowd.

Naraness

10-22-2014, 01:46 AM

“I haven’t got all day, come on.” Rose looked back at the man who was standing with her. Her brow creased with worry. Another chilly breeze sweep through, and she shivered as goose bumps prickled her arms. Anna watched the street beyond the safety of the alley, listening to the sound of panicked footsteps and urgent voices.

Torch light flickered between the buildings, and she could hear the always present moaning of the ghosts. They seem awfully friendly. Anna thought as she bit her lip. The longer she stood still, the more she felt like something was crawling under her skin, burrowing down to somehow steal her soul… While the thought was a little bit dramatic, it wasn’t out of the realm of possibility. If ghosts were real, maybe other things were too. Demons, dragons, wraiths… Anything was possible. Anna Rose gulped, shrinking against the wall as if it might protect her. The cold stone offered her no comfort, sadly.

A group of people ran past, but she did not move. The group’s voices faded, and the sound of another pair of feet reached her ears. This one was faster, lighter, smaller… They were a child’s feet. Rose mentally pleaded that the lad or lass was with someone else; someone who could keep them safe.

It was then that she saw the boy, who was probably about thirteen or fourteen years old. He was alone, left behind by the others he had been running with. His eyes expressed fear, panic… Emotions she was well acquainted with. Anna Rose ceased breathing, and stood still as she watched him. She felt the need to pull him out of the street, into the relative safety of the alley, but hesitated just a moment too long.

It had only been a second since she first saw him, when his foot caught on an uneven part of the cobbled road. Her heart leapt in fear as he fell to the unforgiving stone pavement.

Come on, come on Lad! Get up. Run! She pleaded in her mind. But it was clear that he was in too much pain to stand. “Hang on.” She whispered, pulling her hood a little more snugly over her face. Anna quickly glanced back at the other rogue. “Thanks for saving me, sorry if I kill myself. You’re free to come if you like.” She said, smiling charmingly. Annabel stepped out of the safety of the alleyway, and then ran down the road toward the fallen boy.

The ghosts were just moments behind, Rose was sure. If she didn’t hurry they would both perish. It slipped her mind that she had been enchanted back in the alleyway, and she felt as vulnerable as ever.

Anna skid to a stop, and small clouds of dust formed below her delicate feet. “Hurry Lad, we’ve got to get you out of the open.” Rose spoke urgently, trying to keep her voice low in the hope that the ghosts hadn’t seen her. It was a very slim chance. “Hurry, put your arm around my shoulders, I’ll help you up.” She reached down for him, her eyes darting around the street, and then back to him.

The boy’s condition was uncertain. From what she could tell, it was possible he had a broken ankle. Anna Rose prayed to her God that it was just a sprain.

Chat Noir

10-22-2014, 08:42 AM

Oberan scoffed and stuttered for five seconds, apparently using up all the time allotted to him by the strange woman. Who, really, hadn't even given her name. Honestly, were manners such a foreign concept in this neck of the woods? She must be a native to the town – or not, because who in their right mind would stay out here with the ghosts and ghouls floating around like they owned the place. Which they probably did. Oppression was an ugly color on them, he had to say. Still, manners.

“Yes,” he mumbled under his breath, “you're welcome for saving your ass from the soul sucking ghosts. No it wasn't a big deal. No, I don't want a reward. No, I don't need your name.” He rolled his eyes, but did offer to an opinion to her question. He didn't really care, as long as they didn't attract the attention of the ghosts who had just passed by. Well, he started at least to give his opinion before yet another commotion moved past their alleyway. Please, whatever deity that listened to his pitiful and far between prayers, let it not be more ghosts. Please.

Wow, the deity listened. He'd have to pray to that one more often. If he lived, anyways.

It wasn't ghosts, it was a giant group of crazy people. Only they lacked the pitchforks and torches of a true angry mob. Disappointing. Still, he quieted his voice lest he bring his existence to attention. Yes they were people, but they didn't exactly look like they'd be much help against a horde of ghosts. Then again, looks could be deceiving. Like this woman he was in the alley with, she seemed like a very nice well mannered girl. Clearly she wasn't. Okay, so maybe he was still irked about not getting her name. But how much more suave could have been? If saving her from imminent danger didn't even get him her name then how high maintenance was she?

Oh and there she ran, right out into the street. He swore and moved to the mouth of the alley to see what on Earth she was doing. She hadn't seemed too keen on letting the mob know they were there before, so what changed? Did she decide that he wasn't worth her time and was just leaving him alone again? Rude! And scary, too. Who wanted to be alone in this hell hole? Although, she did apologize. Maybe there was hope yet for her manners.

Peering into the dimly lit street, he watched as she ran to a prone figure lying on the ground. And not just any prone figure, it was that of a child. Oberan felt a pang of sorrow and righteous fury in his heart of gold. No, truly, he did. He supposed he couldn't just leave a child out in the middle of the street with the amount of shit going on in this town right now. Or a maiden, because the further from him she got, the less his magic protected the hooded woman.

With a sigh, he sprinted over to the two figures. He could feel his magic settle more comfortably around the girl, and with a quick mumbling of words and a snap of his fingers he cast the same spell on the boy. Man, he still didn't know if it worked, but hey, it was better than nothing right? He moved to the other side of the boy and leaned down to grab his other arm.

“Man, you just love trouble don't you,” he grunted at the woman, looking over his shoulder at the large group of approaching ghouls. “I'd say marry it, but since we seem to have this damsel and hero dynamic going on right now, I'll have to refrain.”

Looking at the boys leg, Oberan winced. Ouch. Man, this was going to be troublesome. He hoped he wouldn't have to carry the kid. There was totally a reason he wasn't a lumberjack. And yes, that was completely relevant to his current predicament. Kid, log, what was the difference really. Not much at the moment.

Crazywolf

10-22-2014, 08:17 PM

Jala heard a cry behind her and glanced back some way to see that little Billy, if that was indeed his real name, had fallen. Immediately she stopped and turned round ready to go back and assist him. But before she could act something weird happened. The boy just shimmered and disappeared into thin air. It was like he had suddenly gone somewhere else. She stood a moment staring bewildered at the space where he had been wondering if she should to go back and look for him.

Froggy

10-25-2014, 12:52 AM

Anabeth was stunned... the viel had consumed their thoughts, their minds...Anabeth noticed the others reaching for it, but before she could step forth first...the unthinkable happened. Anirhod reached her hand into the viel and disappeared, and when she vanished... a man appeared on the floor and looked to be in pain.

"No...she can't be dead," Anabeth said, a look of horror on her face. The woman had saved her life just moments ago, but now...she hadn't been quick enough. All she could do was hope, pray that the woman was still alive.

In the meantime she took notice of the man before them, wondering how he was supposed to be of help to them. He seemed to need their help, so she took a step forward and kneeled down in front of him. "What can I do to help you?" She asked, keeping a safe distance in which she could scramble away if needed,but at the same time remaining close enough if he needed her aid.

Dnafein

10-26-2014, 11:30 AM

Finbaz smiled and tried to chatter amicably when he discovered himself surrounded by others who had walked out of the establishment. He then found himself shooshed. He tried to complain only to receive a dirty look for opening his mouth. With a hmph he contented himself to hum under his breath.

Shortly after finding himself running Fizban heard an uncomfortable and familiar sound. Sliding to a stop the wizard turned around. He saw the boy sprawled out and the woman rush to his side. Fizban blinked as they disappeared.The old mans eyes cleared, his hand extended from inside his sleeve. A whitish dust flowed from his fingers as the old man muttered beneath his breath. Suddenly there was a flash of bright light between the hidden trio and the ghouls pursuing them.

The wizard extended his other hand directly at the hidden boy. A feather in the hand burst into fluff as the wizard muttered again. His eyes regained the glint of insanity as the old man shouted, "Fly you fools."

Minkasha

10-26-2014, 12:06 PM

Icarus stared at the woman kneeled before him and quickly offered his hand, the architecture of his body flexed with his movement.

“You need not kneel, good woman” he had kept a hard focus on the blonde’s face, seeing that she was distressed. “My name is Icarus, though that is all I know” While a disheartening truth, it didn’t shake his heroic charisma nor his self-confidence.

Kris

10-27-2014, 09:00 AM

http://i1089.photobucket.com/albums/i358/livnatkris/UKC/tobenamed6a.png

As Gilliam was still advancing He heard pants, screams, maybe even battle sounds, which hardly reached over the sound of his beating heart.

He gritted his teeth when he felt the, oh so familiar, presence of the young man, Icarus. He had awaken far too early for Gilliam's liking which meant someone lost their life in the process...

He swallowed.

Fuck, he shouldn't have let the girls down without proper guidance.

But that was not important right now, if he was to rid of this menace in the town he needed to reach the tombstone leading downstairs... and somehow convince the people down there, especially, Icarus, to help.

Crazywolf

10-28-2014, 03:04 PM

Jala stared down the darkened street. She couldn't see anyone beside the distant shapes of advancing ghosts, but clearly Finbaz was convinced that someone was there. Maybe he wasn't quite so mad as she'd first thought. Just then she heard an inhuman hissing sound and turned to catch sight of more spectres moving towards them from the left.

Well much as it pained her to leave the kid behind there wasn't much she could do to help those she couldn't see. "Come on" she urged Finbaz reluctantly. "We'd better get moving ourselves or both of us will get caught."

Urging Finbaz to follow she turned her course back toward the cemetery.

11-02-2014, 12:22 PM

Scowling, Morana glared at the man and ignored the actions of the other woman. Her curiosity had not been sated, nor had her action dissipated. While she seethed she had returned inward mulling over this man's words. Are you in any danger. Oh the vitriol that spun around her mind, ire which was tangled with thought of Gilliam.

Frail, she brought conversation to Icarus. "You do not know Gilliam?

"You do not know the murderous barrier which had been placed around your being?" Her voice no longer fragile. More biting. "You do not know you are the help which we need."

She turned from him. Unconvinced.

Dnafein

11-03-2014, 05:34 PM

THe old man turned at the woman's urgings and followed, he stepped his pace up a bit and leaned towards her. "Excuse me dearie, what would be caught by?"

As he realized they were heading towards a graveyard he added to his question. "Are we visiting someone you know?"

Wattz

11-07-2014, 04:43 AM

Jester noticed far too late for his liking the sudden absence of smaller footsteps beside lumbering armor clanks. Where was little Billy? Damn his foolishness! How could he be so careless? Perhaps he had overestimated the child. Perhaps he had gotten caught up in the cry of destiny. But curses, Billy was just a boy! They could not afford to stop running, not with the scent of death on the air. This was the power of something far beyond his control, even as a necromancer. It was beyond virtually anyone's control.

He turned to look behind him. But Billy was nowhere to be seen.

"Where is he? Where's Billy?!" he asked the others. Curses! Jester felt he deserved to be left behind with the hissing specters.

He faced the mysterious stranger, Gilliam, who lead them now through the city. "Did you see him? Did you see where the boy went?" he asked frantically.

Minkasha

11-07-2014, 04:57 AM

Icarus looked down at the woman with little understanding of what she was talking about. In his nude glory, he turned around to see the barrier, was this where he was held? He could remember the hours spent awake, in a lucid like state.

Gilliam, it struck familiarity in a way most foul. Whoever Gilliam was, Icarus had an instant dislike. But what pulled at him even more was the state the angry woman was.

“I will do everything in my power to help” the man had nodded to the woman to affirm his words.
“I do not understand now, but I will…" a feeling was striking his heart, loneliness. “I must”

11-07-2014, 02:08 PM

"Okay," she said at him. Eyes elsewhere or not seeing.

It was more then Gilliam offered.

She recollected the torch, held the light in front of her in one hand and her staff in the other. Morana paused, when she felt her voice would be calmer she told him. "Above is a town, another barrier-" Likely malicious, "- surrounds it keeping inside deathly ghouls or spectres." She did not utter that it kept them inside also, but her hands held her objects tight.

As she walked back toward the stairs, through gritted teeth she said into darkness, "Gilliam did not explain."

Minkasha

11-13-2014, 01:28 PM

Icurus, in his nude glory, followed behind the woman. The mention if the undead made him angry - wishing violence upon them.

"If I find a blade, I can hopefully prove to be of some use to you" his skin started to feel the pricking sensation of harsh chills, goosebumps spreading across his body. Yet, he kept silent, letting his bare feet slap against the stone of the crypt.

Froggy

11-17-2014, 04:13 AM

"Another barrier?" Anabeth asked the woman, realizing that she still didn't even know her name. The two seemed to be talking, and the man that had come from behind the barrier seemed unaware of where he was, who he was, or who this Gillam man was. Anabeth was confused, wondering if her companion would ever return from the barrier that had sucked her inside. Anabeth's face hardened and gave a look at the space, what it was now, and looked towards the naked man and the woman with the staff.

They were leaving the crypt, and Anabeth was not too keen to return up there again. "Wait!" Anabeth said, careful not to shout as she took off into a sprint. "If we're going up there, we should probably light as many torches as possible- that's the only way I know to kill these things," she said, looking along the hall for any signs of torches- spotting one not far down. She grabbed it and used the fire from the woman's torch to light hers. "What is your plan?" she asked, looking more than a little uncertain about this.

Kris

11-18-2014, 08:18 PM

"Did you see him? Did you see where the boy went?"

Gilliam panted and shook his head at the cries of Jester.

"I... I haven't seen anyone".

He seemed troubled by the loss of the boy. Looking back he saw them... well their shadows... of the group members who followed him till this point.

"Damn this hell!", he said before dashing to the nearest tomb. Jester persisted, and with each and every plea of urgency it was clearly known that the boy would take priority, but it was then that Gilliam lost it.

"LOOK AROUND YOU!", he said, grabbing Jester's shoulders, "If we don't do something now, this whole plan was for nothing!". He pushed Jester, almost dropping him, and with a quick wave of his hands he pressed the tombstone, once again revealing the secret stairs which led below.

He gave Jester one last meaningful look before he descended down.

Jester knew, and anyone who caught up with the event up till this point, that whatever lies below would save them.

Rather to follow or not was a choice left to Jester and the others.

Crazywolf

11-19-2014, 01:35 PM

"Are we visiting someone you know?"

"Umm not exactly." Jala sighed slightly as they ran, realizing that spending time with Finbaz was likely to test her patience.

She caught up to the others just as Gilliam was opening the tomb. Why on earth had he brought them there? Entering a crypt in the middle of the night did not exactly appeal to her. On the other hand she knew that they couldn't just stay outside. She glanced sideways at Jester. "I'm afraid your nephew has disappeared" she said. "He just seemed to vanish. I can't really explain it."

Though she used the word nephew she still wasn't convinced the pair were actually related. Back in the tavern it had seemed more like a ruse invented by the kid for his own purpose. However right then the exact truth didn't particularly matter. They all had bigger issues to think about.

Naraness

11-19-2014, 07:52 PM

What was wrong? Was the boy stunned, was he in too much pain to speak or move? Anna couldn't tell. A glance behind her revealed that if she waited any longer, they could be killed. By her side was the man whom she met in the alley. He had cast a spell of concealment over them, but would it protect them from the ghosts which were fast approaching? "Please lad, please get up." She pleaded, trying to get a response from the injured boy.

Long, ghastly faces floated towards her, close enough that she could hear the unearthly moans. Anna Rose's eyes widened, her gaze fixed upon them. Their robes dusted the cobbled streets, and the air grew colder with every passing second. Her instinct to survive kicked in, and she wanted to run. She wanted to hide, flee, and scream. But instead she just stood there, unable to move. The boy wouldn't survive on his own.. and would never forgive herself if she ran, leaving him to be devoured.

"I h-hope that spell of yours works." Anna said, looking up at the rogue. She gulped, and waited, her breaths forming in the air as white puffs.

Dnafein

11-20-2014, 12:37 PM

"Umm not exactly."

"Ahh..." Zifnab said knowingly. "Your late second cousin. Removed at least once now." He finished with a chuckle.

He listened as Jala explained what she saw to the distraught man and nodded. "He's entertaining living guests right now. One of them knows a fairly handy spell." The old man scratched his head. "I know it too, but i only use it in emergencies to keep me from running too much. I am getting old you know."

The open tomb caught his attention and he stared into its depths for moment before speaking in a calmer less cheerful tone. "You know they say what comes out of a grave is seldom the same thing that went in." He turned his eyes away from it and his tone altered back to his usual cheerful one. "Who knows maybe we'll all come out insane, that should be entertaining." And with that statement he followed his fellow wizard into the depths.

11-21-2014, 02:20 PM

Morana knew nothing of weapons, of blades, she did not care for them. She was not interested in weapons.

"Would my staff suffice." It wasn't a question. Just barely an offer that Morana did not wish to make. Still, as they walked through the crypt she held the staff in his direction. For moments this action lost Morana within herself.

This is yours what are you doing. What are you doing. Courage. Morana. Courage. Morana-

"Another barrier?"

The woman's question jerked Morana to the cold present and away from brooding. The question burned and the seething returned. With grit, "yes. Covers the entire town. Nothing leaves, everyone trapped within."

An idea burst from the other lady, creating weapons from the torches. "Fire doesn't like me." Morana said to no one. Allowing the other to create a second torch she ponder the words. She did not have a plan.

"Gilliam must return, the only entrance that I know exits at the graveyard. I will wait for him there. And then I will get answers." The words grew more venomous as she spoke, they were not directed to the companions instead toward the open space ahead of her.

Minkasha

11-22-2014, 03:23 PM

Icarus took the staff, holding it in a firm grasp as he accustomed himself to the balance of its weight.

“Thank you” He kept his low voice quiet, seeing her lost in thought. However, when she brought up the suggest of where the three of them may go, Icarus nodded.

“Then we head to this graveyard”

Crazywolf

11-24-2014, 01:25 PM

Jala gave Jester a final glance. "I don't know who's got the kid but right now I don't see anything else you can do for him. Follow or stay here, your choice I guess."

With that she turned and followed Finbaz down into the crypt.

Kris

11-26-2014, 01:16 PM

Around Jester few more people gathered now. One of them was Excul.

Gilliam, however, was too busy finding the right switch, "It should be here."

What are you doing?

At first Gilliam turned around swiftly, thinking it may be someone beside him that was adressing him, but he realized too quickly who that voice belonged to and soon after he turned to put his hands on the tombstone.

The boy was called back to life.... A woman lost hers in the process....

"I know...", Gilliam bite his lips.

They will want an explanation

"I know..."

How long are you going to trick them?

"Stop"

Fine, we will talk later... Better to keep your voice down now... We don't want them to think we are talking to ourselves, are we?

Gilliam pressed the stone and the moment the staircase was visible he walked down the path, soon meeting up with the group below.

He swallowed when he saw Icurus standing and untied.

There was still a chance that he doesn't remember anything.

"We need to get you up, now", said Gilliam, "We can talk later, but right now we need to drive the demons back... Don't do anything, it's enough that you go up. I'll do the ritual to make sure everything works out well"

Minkasha

11-26-2014, 01:33 PM

Icarus took lead, pointing his staff at the ritualist, his eyes narrowed. There it was again, an angry familiarity. To gaze on this long haired man brought a frustrating sense of powerlessness and he did not know why. However he had to focus on the urgency in the man's voice, and what the blonde woman had told him. There was a greater danger at the moment.

He dropped the staff down, keeping it to his side as he walked by, still unshaken by his nudity.

"Fine, if I can help, I will"

Kris

11-26-2014, 01:47 PM

Isn't he cute?

The voice whispered to Gilliam

I can feel his rage burning, but everything reduced at ashes before the need to repel evil... His kind... ever so predictable...

"Stop!", Gilliam hissed.

MAHAHAHA... Take the boy up... Finish the task... But don't lower your guards just yet...

Gilliam waited for the fog in his mind to clear before he looked at Icarus, "Thank you, your aura will be helpful enough... Once we are up and I am able to finish the ritual, the dead will finally find peace... at least in this town".

Crazywolf

11-26-2014, 02:04 PM

Jala had followed Gilliam and Finbaz down to the bottom of the stairs. Entering the cavern she beheld the other group. She noticed the two women however the figure that really caught her attention was the naked male holding the staff. It was a sight that took her rather aback and she couldn't help but stare at him.

As he walked past them onto the stairs her face turned to Gilliam. "Who the frack is that?"

Drakkon

11-26-2014, 02:18 PM

Excul watched the hurried group delve downwards, obviously missing something he followed them cautiously. As he would follow a deer in the wild, his left hand lowered towards his daggers hilt, his right hand barely held in a defensive position. Just in cause. Hunger gnawed at his consciousness. While he had little knowledge of the civilized world he recognized this place for what it was. He slowed his own descent when he heard the commotion, keeping himself above sight from the entry way. He didn't know these people. They didn't know him. He swallowed, gazing slightly at his white knuckles and the blade that was sliding ever so boldly from it's sheathe. The dagger thirsting for violence to come, instead of the infinity better peace.
Excul listened patiently. Desiring to know more about this hurried group.

Naraness

11-28-2014, 05:49 AM

Part of Rose wanted to wait and see if Oberon's spell worked, but the other half screamed 'heck no.' The moment she could feel the air growing cold from the ghasts' presence, she wrapped her arms around the boy and took off running. "Come on!" She shouted to the others, her eyes flashing in fear.

The lad was heavy, but lighter than she expected. Does he get enough to eat? She thought. Anna supposed it wasn't the best time to wonder. She made a beeline for the graveyard, since that was where the mysterious man had vanished. He was the only one who seemed to know what was going on, and she was determined to get answers out of him.

"Stupid voices," She muttered under her breath, "Telling me to go East. Ha! Don't expect me to listen to you again." Cold air rushed past her as she ran. "If I survive, I'm heading straight for the West and never looking back."

Anna slowed down as she came to the edge of the graveyard. The streets were dark, but this place was even deeper in the shadows. Trees hung overhead like talons reaching out to grab her. They seemed to choke out what little light the moon provided. A breeze rustled the leaves, and footsteps sounded behind her. Ahead, stairs trailed away, down into the darkness. "Something tells me they went down there." She put the boy down, knowing that they were relatively safe for a moment.

Rose looked back, her green eyes searching the streets for those whom she'd become familiar with. Were they okay?

11-30-2014, 10:41 AM

Turmoil spread within her, she was unsure how she felt about the return of Gilliam. The way he assumed command, told Icarus what to do irked her. Yet perhaps if what he had said was true, this town would be saved. Which returned her to other frustrations - this was his fault to begin with!

"Peace. In this town." Morana echoed Gilliam and stared at him. It was a new shock, and perhaps that was the only thing that kept her from howling obscenities at him immediately.

"Who the frack is that?" Another lady spoke.

"Our savour, the one to rid us of the dead." Sarcasm tore from her throat. "Isn't that right Gilliam? Though I do wonder why you would need to summon the rest of us. Perhaps you enjoy bringing people to their deaths - there wasn't even a piece of her. She's just fucking gone.

"Did he tell you all?" Morana continued, but her words were for Gilliam alone. "A barrier keeps us all in town - with those ghosts. And now you say there are other towns? Will you enclose us there too? Summon more people for your scheme?"

Her coldness eked into the dark chamber.

Kris

11-30-2014, 11:33 AM

Gilliam swallowed

I like her...

'Shut up'

No, seriously, I do.... MAAHAHAHA

Gilliam shook his head, trying to keep up his balance as he did, "Look. I... I will explain... everything", Gilliam stuttered.

Was it because he was lost for words? Did the mage girl hit the spot with him?

Or maybe he just didn't care and wanted to rid himself of the voices of his mind?

Whatever it was, they needed to move.

NOW.

Crazywolf

11-30-2014, 04:39 PM

Finally Jala had found another person who shared her sense of annoyance. "You fracking well had better explain everything" she retorted to Gilliam. "Don't think I'm trusting you here for a second."

She waited for Gilliam to move so she could follow directly behind him.

Wattz

12-06-2014, 06:06 PM

Jester prided himself in his flexibility. But at this point, his patience was wearing thin. He was frustrated that he had let the boy down, frustrated that there was nothing he could do but follow. But at this point, there was nothing left he could do. He walked ahead of the group, knowing not was else to do. He stayed silent, following the path and hoping that Little Billy was okay.

Kris

12-06-2014, 09:39 PM

Ischyrr- Graveyard

Up above the ground, Gilliam scanned left and right. The hour was far from dawn, but light escaped into the sky the moment he raised his hands up to the air.

You need my help...?

'Please...'

Very well...

Gilliam's body shone with terrible light which disappeared and follow into the body of Icarus, who was no longer naked for he was wearing one of Gilliam's robes.

Icarus felt as if something was entering his very inner being as soul... and something... was being pulled out... It was so quick...

Before he realized what it was, that light flow up above them and spread all around them hitting the graveyard ground.

Icarus fell on his knees, the might of which-ever charm it was, drained him out of his power.

"You'll recover before you know it...", Gilliam smiled, he was using a near tree to support himself. It seems that whatever he just do, took some tool upon him. For just a moment, his body aged, but it was slowly recovering to youth.

That, however, did not escape Morana.

***

Ischyrr- The Town

Wherever they were, the shadows stopped to be. Their horrible death screeches echoed all over the place.

People looked from the windows, as they saw the bright light.

The malice of this town... the horrible hatred that was carried in the air... was... no more...

They allowed themselves to smile

***

Somewhere.... in some faraway kingdom

A young tanned lady was slowly fondling the mirror upon her drawer with her long, shiny red nails.

http://www.arabiaweddings.com/sites/default/files/tips/2012/08/29/cleopatra-572423l.jpg

Smoke arose as the images of the town reflected in the glass before her.

She smiled.

"You are coming for me next, are you not?", she said to herself and chuckled, "I can't wait...."

"Do ya need anythin' elze?", asked the man who entered her room.

http://www.bestforfilm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/YourHighnessHero.jpg

"No, William, that would be all. However, keep following him... and make sure our young mage will head for me next", the woman said with a low voice.

The man nodded and left the room.

Drakkon

12-07-2014, 12:49 AM

Hunger still watched the group. Having kept his distance from them before he still stalked them. Whether or not they noticed due to his inexperience in civilized terrain, he cared little. This hurried group intrigued him as the one had a certain air about him. He practically glowed of trouble.. which is what Hunger craved now a days. Excul on the other hand.. wanted nothing to do with the group, and wanted to go back to their own path. So be it.. they can compromise. Hunger stalks.. Excul hides. Hunger kept his knife out just in case they retaliated against his not-so-peaceful intentions. Though he knew Excul would take the stage should they simply desire to talk.
'talk talk TALK! That's we've ever done. I need. nourishment.' Hunger thought, gazing at them through his hiding place.

Crazywolf

12-07-2014, 01:03 AM

Jala watched as the bright light passed from Gilliam to Icarus then spread out to fill the graveyard. Compared to the lowly conjouring tricks she had seen from other wizards this display of power was like nothing she had ever witnessed. She stared at Icarus wondering who or what he was. From the town beyond she heard the terrible screeches which sent chills down her spine until finally they went silent.

For a moment her eyes lingered on the dark buildings and rooftops beyond the graveyard then her gaze turned to Gilliam leaning against the tree. She wondered if the spell had indeed succeeded. Til she knew that she couldn't feel secure. "Are they all gone?" she asked somewhat warily.

Naraness

12-07-2014, 02:49 AM

Silence. Sudden, incredible silence. Rose turned around, only to see the streets were empty. The howls were gone, the chill in the air had vanished... The whole world had returned to normal. Was it all a dream? She wondered. Have I finally gone crazy?

Despite the incredibly tangible idea that she had gone mad, there were still questions to be answered. There was a gaping hole in the ground which lead deep into the darkness. There was a young boy who was injured without a family. And there was also the question as to why she came here in the first place. "I swear, I'm out of this town by morning." She muttered.

Anna Rose rested a hand on the boy's shoulder. "I think it's safe now. You stay here, I'll be right back."

With that, she pushed her sleeves up and plunged down the stairway. Rose wanted answers, and by golly, she would get answers!

Froggy

12-09-2014, 12:22 AM

Just as the trio had reached the top of the staircase, the entrance opened and Gillaim was there with others. These were those whom he had summoned, for whatever reason... as the scene that unfolded after left her with more questions than answers. The screeches were morbid and terrifying, reminding her of the ghost when the fire had met her earlier in the evening. Anabeth looked to the mage woman when it was over, she seemed furious with the man and she still didn't know why.

There was a barrier keeping them all in town, that much was certain.... but what of the ghosts? Why were they needed if Gillaim had been able to do it? "Explain. Why did she have to die in for you to rid of the ghosts?" Anabeth asked, stepping up to see Gillaim, her own eyes flashing with anger and emotion as it truly hit her that the woman would never return. That this man, now wearing Gillaim's robe, had needed her sacrifice in order to rid the ghosts.

"And who is he? Why do you need us if you were able to destroy the shadows on your own?" Anabeth asked, still holding the torch in her hands. Maybe...maybe it wasn't just fire that destroyed the shadow spirits. Maybe it was an act of light that would destroy them, since they came out in the day. "That's what kills them. It isn't just fire- light is what destroys them...isn't it?" she asked, now looking more curious than anything.

12-11-2014, 09:24 AM

She was unimpressed.

She tucked her hands into her sleeves and stared at Gilliam. Icarus held no concern for her, the spectres held no concern for her. Just the mage.

The other woman who had witnessed the harsh quick demise of another took to questioning him, taking the words out of her mouth. Except perhaps spoken with nicer tones.

Her eyes were on the man's frame the whole time, she watched him noting irregularities. Morana ignored that, ignored her curiosity to the woman's claim about light. Morana commanded. "Answer her now.

"Tell us everything." As she spoke Morana took steps in his direction.

Naraness

12-12-2014, 09:51 PM

Anna Rose muttered to herself as she descended. "Ghosts. Yeah, stinking brilliant. Who's idea was that?" She rolled her eyes. "I'd like to smack them upside the head." The young rogue gritted her teeth against each other as the staircase grew darker, forcing her to slow down so she wouldn't fall on her face. That didn't stop her from continuing her little rant, though. Her bitter ramblings echoed softly while she made her way down.

Soon the floor leveled out before her, and she reached a small room which was lit by torches. There were a few figures standing there; the wizard, two women, and an incredibly naked man. Rose averted her eyes quickly, and turned her attention to the conversation taking place. The women seemed as mad as she was, and they too were demanding answers from Gilliam.

"You know what, I'm with them!" Anna said, standing beside the two strangers. "What the heck is going on?" Her eyes flashed. "Are you the reason we all came here? Are you the one who kept sending me dreams and whispers of this place? There are better ways of getting peoples' attention, you know." She stuck her hands on her hips, leaning forward slightly as if to prove her point.

Rose's voice took on a mockingly sweet tone. "So if you could very kindly explain what just happened and why you dragged us into it, that would be great." She leaned back and folded her arms, staring at the wizard expectantly.

Kris

12-24-2014, 02:10 PM

Ischyrr- Graveyard

Gilliam was cornered.

"Yes, the demons are gone...", He answered Jala's question. Then he sighed and considered what to do next.

At the end he just nodded, "Fine, I will explain... but I won't do it here... Let us be away from this foul place... Please... follow me to the Golden Rod Tavern... "

http://i1089.photobucket.com/albums/i358/livnatkris/UKC/tobenamed6a.png

***

Ischyrr- "Golden Rod" Tavern

It was dawn by the time they arrived but the whole town was already on their feet.

They were celebrating, drinking, rejoicing.

"The dead going to stay in their grave for now?", asked Ogg Ermin

http://www.thephotographermovie.com/images/Bartender.png

Gilliam nodded, "I would advice you to burn the bodies just in case... But they should remain in the deep soil... at least until another mage decides otherwise".

Ogg Ermin dumped down a heavy looking bottle full of beer on the table, "For your sake I hope not", he said as he narrowed his eyebrows with anger, "The drinks on me. You may celebrate. Comes noon and I want you lot all gone from here, forever".

Gilliam nodded.

He waited for whoever that decided to follow him to grab a cup full of liquor and then he sighed. He seemed unwilling to speak at first, but the gazes that were thrown at him from every corner of the table drew him to open his mouth, "This is going to be a long story", he sighed, "Hard to think of where to start... I'll try to make it brief"

He cleared up his throat and then spoke, "I am... running away... from a rather powerful group of mages, which runs by one powerful man. May we never speak or meet with them... or with their leader... He... and they... well... they want me back....".

He looked at Icarus, "They had a rather... personal interest in you as well... You must have know by now... that you are... a bit more special... don't even ask me why... I.. I don't know myself.... I... brought you here... but it was not... much against your will, for you were still pretty much unconscious even back then", Another pause, "I have arrived to this town some months ago. I wanted to hide... at least until I knew where my next steps were... but your aura was so powerful, and active even if you were not... I had to seal you away, at least until I knew where I was going to next... frankly, I wasn't even sure if you were ever going to wake up.

"I had to keep a low profile, so I tried to help the townsfolk as best as I could. They were fighting a terrible illness that seemed to be taking victims for many years now.

"I used magic... I realized now... that I shouldn't... have....", Gilliam looked at Icarus, "Your aura... somehow... messed up my spells, instead of healing, it was reviving the dead and those that were close to it, were becoming something that was never to be part of this world.

"In my desperation, I summoned a call... hoping to fight the demons and free you, young Icarus... and maybe make whoever that wished to follow me to save this world from the group I am running from".

Gilliam picked up his glass and drank as he was waiting for them to take it all in.

***

Somewhere in the deep corners of the tavern, a man was smirking, "Gilliam, Gilliam... How long are you going to lie to them... and you consider us to be the bad guys? tsk tsk", as he vanished into the shadows, only his bright smile was left hanging some more, "Naughty, naughty boy... Father will punish you for sure..."

http://www.bestforfilm.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/YourHighnessHero.jpg

Crazywolf

12-24-2014, 07:14 PM

One minute Jala was about to get answers the next Gilliam insisted on going first to the tavern. Walking back through the street behind him she saw the town-folk celebrating but as a stranger their celebrations didn't really mean much to her, the past problems of this town were theirs and not hers.

Inside the tavern she sat opposite Gilliam with a fixed stare and listened to every word he had to say. The revelation that he had caused the undead himself perhaps explained why he seemed to be so messed up and in particular why Ogg didn't much like him.

The last line of his explanation threw up a couple of clear questions in her mind. "How are they a threat to the world?" she demanded to know. "And more to the point why did you choose me?"

Inside she felt angry not only for the fact she had nearly been killed but also the fact the summons had inadvertantly torn apart her relationship with Raimon. In her mind Gilliam still had quite a lot of things to answer for.

Minkasha

12-24-2014, 07:24 PM

Icarus had still a look of fading shock in his face even after sitting down in the tavern. The soul sucking sensations his body went through and the slow ebbing flow of life back in made him shiver. It felt unholy. If anything were to raise his suspicions anymore, Gilliam had done it. Not only did he practice dark crafts , he also acted recklessly, endangering so many others.

"Staying here is selfish of you. If you bring trouble, it cause it yourself, it is your responsibility to seek exile"

Kris

12-24-2014, 08:42 PM

"How are they a threat to the world?" Jala asked. "And more to the point why did you choose me?"

"They just are... Please understand... I cannot simply involve you in this... you asked and I answered. They are powerful mages that seek only more and more power. If you are not to be joined into my cause, there is no real reason to drag you into this and explain further... truth to be told the less questions you ask, the better", he lowered his head into his palms, as he tried to relive the pain in his forehead, "I... didn't choose who to summon... it doesn't work like that... I just sent a cry... if your soul responded it meant that you were powerful enough to be joined by it... nothing more... I'm sorry that my explanation is not more... miraculous... But this is what it is".

"Staying here is selfish of you. If you bring trouble, it cause it yourself, it is your responsibility to seek exile", Icarus added.

"I know...", Gilliam said slowly, "... at least trust me when I say that I thought I had it all under control...", he sighed, "However, I don't think I will be allowed to stay here any longer either way..."

12-26-2014, 01:11 AM

Morana stood, a little apart. She did not take a drink, simply huddled in her robe watching Gilliam. She paid little heed to the others. His words didn't resonant with her, his constant pauses irritated her. Morana convinced herself he was filtering his knowledge, displaying which he felt would benefit himself.

Morana would walk if he did not offer more.

"So who the fuck are these people? Do they have names? Or are they faceless?"

She was deadly amused by his comment about his cry going to strong individuals. Her magical affinity seemingly was just an Ice Aura - she made a wonderful apprentice.

Naraness

12-28-2014, 01:21 AM

Anna sighed in exasperation upon arriving at the inn. Gilliam's explanation was far from satisfactory.

As it turned out, they were all here to help the mage get himself out of the mess he had made... The idea made her want to stomp out of the inn and go home. Despite this, she felt like there was more to the story. Maybe it was important that they helped him. Why?

For whatever the reason, his spell had called them. Even though they were an odd and mismatched bunch of individuals, there had to be a reason why they were chosen out of thousands in the surrounding provinces.

"Alright, you need our help. That's fine. But... Look." Rose said shortly, approaching the small group. "You can't have expected your spell to summon people who knew what to do." Anna Rose took a seat at a nearby table, laughing with disbelief. "We're here, yeah. But that doesn't mean you've won our loyalty! If you want our help, at least, if you want my help... You're going to need to honest with me, and ensure me that I'm not going to walk into a slaughterhouse for your sake." Anna scoffed, rolling her emerald eyes. She turned away for a moment, catching the eye of a serving boy. A little flick of her finger told him to bring some ale her way. A drink to take the edge off would do her good.

Anna turned back to Gilliam. "I'm sorry if this seems abrasive, but. I don't know you. I have no reason to want to help you at this point. So please, give me a reason. Tell me why I can trust you, why I should do anything for you." The serving boy arrived at her side, and she cast him a flirtatious smile, taking a mug of ale. Rose flicked him a coin, and turned her gaze back to Gilliam.

"Otherwise, I'm going to buy a horse and ride home tomorrow morning." A sweet little smile danced on her lips, and she took a sip from the frothy mug in her hands.

Crazywolf

12-29-2014, 08:38 PM

Jala listened to Gilliam's reply. The part about souls seemed fairly remarkable and yet in her own mind she did not know how else to explain it for she herself had heard the summoning from far away while countless others around her or many even closer evidently had not.

Meanwhile however it was hard not to share the frustration of the other two women with the rather limited answer about the mages.

"The others are right" she said. "You can't expect anyone to join your cause if you don't even explain how these guys pose a threat or what those that join you might be up against."

Kris

01-02-2015, 04:39 PM

"Alright, you need our help. That's fine. But... Look." Rose said shortly, approaching the small group. "You can't have expected your spell to summon people who knew what to do." Anna Rose took a seat at a nearby table, laughing with disbelief. "We're here, yeah. But that doesn't mean you've won our loyalty! If you want our help, at least, if you want my help... You're going to need to honest with me, and ensure me that I'm not going to walk into a slaughterhouse for your sake." Anna scoffed, rolling her emerald eyes. She turned away for a moment, catching the eye of a serving boy. A little flick of her finger told him to bring some ale her way. A drink to take the edge off would do her good.

Anna turned back to Gilliam. "I'm sorry if this seems abrasive, but. I don't know you. I have no reason to want to help you at this point. So please, give me a reason. Tell me why I can trust you, why I should do anything for you." The serving boy arrived at her side, and she cast him a flirtatious smile, taking a mug of ale. Rose flicked him a coin, and turned her gaze back to Gilliam.

"Otherwise, I'm going to buy a horse and ride home tomorrow morning." A sweet little smile danced on her lips, and she took a sip from the frothy mug in her hands.

"The others are right", Jala said. "You can't expect anyone to join your cause if you don't even explain how these guys pose a threat or what those that join you might be up against."

Gilliam nodded in silent, carefully placing his chin over his hands.

"So who the fuck are these people? Do they have names? Or are they faceless?"

Startled, Gilliam looked up at Morana, "They call themselves 'The Monastery'. Their religious principles consist of joining in the "house of the dead" and building a strong pillar for one man. Their leader. He is long gone from this world, of course, but they think they can bring him back... in a way... they are... leftover of the man he used to be... They tried to reach for the gods' world for guidance, but so far failed. They did held a strong card in their hands. But it is no longer theirs"

Gilliam looked briefly at Icarus and sighed, "Look, are you sure you want to get involved in this?", he shook his head, "I won't be staying here much longer, and I have a feeling the moment I leave here I'll end up at one of their door steps. They are that good at finding me... or making me find them...", he looked around himself, "In fact, I won't be surprised if they already have spies here...."

Crazywolf

01-03-2015, 08:00 PM

Jala listened to the reply as Gilliam gave more information. Her anger toward him had now softened somewhat. At least he had tried to help the town with the disease, she had to give him credit for that one. Looking around at her companions each of them clearly had their own story but with the exception of Icarus they were really just ordinary people like her.

"If these wizards are threatening to destroy the land then why just us" she said. "Why don't you go to the lords that rule the kingdoms and then tell them the information you have."

Kris

01-04-2015, 10:37 AM

"I have never planned... to fight them.... Maybe... I did.... But... not now...", Gilliam considered his words, "When I called upon you, I thought only about sealing the undead of this town... however now... I feel like... I won't be able to keep it to myself...."

Gilliam looked long and hard at Jala and smiled softly, "I think you are right. Maybe the lords will heed us... and aid... I should consider it... I have to admit, one part of me just wishes to get away from here and never be caught by any human eye... But I fear I cannot run anymore, can I?"

Naraness

01-04-2015, 06:13 PM

Anna sighed, setting her mug down. She hadn't gotten a very satisfying answer, and it upset her, but maybe this wizard really just needed help. Perhaps he didn't have the answers himself.

A bad feeling settled in her stomach. Somewhere, deep inside, she had decided that she was going to help him. But in the same moment, she hated it. She hated not knowing, and fighting for a cause which was foreign to her. Even though she knew very little, however, it was certain that the people causing this were evil. If they were allowed to succeed, many people could be killed. Anna Rose's heart burned to prevent that.

"Alright, I'll help you. For now." Anna sighed, tucking her legs beneath the stool she sat on. "But I don't trust you. Not yet. Maybe not ever." Anna shrugged. "Despite that, I want to help stop these people. If it means saving lives and fighting for a valiant cause, then you can count me in." Another gulp of ale reaffirmed her courage, and she nodded slowly.

"Yeah... I'll probably regret it later, but I reckon that you only get one chance to really help people in your life. Whether or not it's a mistake to do so, I think you should take it... And I will."

Minkasha

01-04-2015, 06:20 PM

When Gilliam had spoken to him, Icarus chose silence, eyes leering in suspicion. He continued to simply listen, keeping distance from the others. Gilliam dragged him into all of this, and with no memory but only a name Icarus had very limited options.

But his moral code was giving him guidance, it wished to strike evil with heavy prejudice. And just where Gilliam himself was within the spectrum of evil had yet been seen fully. Gilliam at least brought evil wherever he went, and that was reason enough to follow. Something running through his very blood told him it was his inherent responsibility to do this.

When the woman agreed to help, Icarus spoke up.

“I will help as well” He kept his eyes heavy on Gilliam, a judgment.

01-05-2015, 10:05 AM

Great. Religion. Necromancy. Other pathetic magical nonsense. All of them aspects of one? Sure. Why not. About as reasonable as Gilliam's other answers. Which all seemed to be constructed through delicately chosen words. No, she didn't trust him, no she didn't like him, no she couldn't care about his plight.

Morana glared and hugged herself closer. Though she was curious, endlessly so, how could this group 'threaten the world' was something she would like to learn more about.

"Why do they want you?"

Crazywolf

01-06-2015, 06:35 PM

Jala listened to Anna Rose and Icarus and realised that they were both better people than herself. She had grown up in a hard environment where self-preservation was paramount. Such idealism did not come naturally to her.

She nodded at Morana's question having wondered the same thing herself and waited to hear the reply.

Naraness

01-09-2015, 06:06 PM

Anna leaned back in her chair. The ale was beginning to seep into her bones, relaxing her from the inside out. The dangerous edge of the situation had dulled, and she seemed hopeful that they weren't all going to die. "I think we all still have a lot of questions, but from my point of view... We're stuck together now."

The realization dawned on her that she was sitting with a group of a strangers. She straightened in her chair. "I imagine that we should probably introduce ourselves, and get to know each other. If we're going to be a team, we should know each other's strengths and weaknesses. That way we can work together through whatever we're going to be facing." She reasoned, holding a hand out. "If we want to live, that is." Sarcasm hung on the edge of her voice.

Anna Rose cleared her throat, running a hand through her chin-length red hair. "I'm Anna, Anna Rose." Her eyes flicked about the group. "I don't know where any of you have come from, or what you do for a living, but I won't judge you if you don't judge me." By this point she had found the bottom of her mug, and she set it down with a tone of disappointment. "I live off of the streets. You could say that I acquire things..." She paused, searching for the right words. "...Outside of the normal procedures of society." Her shoulders lifted with a small shrug.

What she was really saying was that she was a thief, a rogue, and a criminal. She was a trader in secrets and stolen goods. But there were much more eloquent ways to say such things.

"The point is, I think we all have skills that will benefit everyone else. As for me, those skills involve sneaking, climbing, cleverness, and getting past locks. I'm not so great at fighting, or horse riding, and I don't know the first thing about magic." Her eyes swiveled to Gilliam and Morana, then to Jala. "But I'm hoping that that's where the rest of you will come in. So, your turn." She waved her hands, as if signaling that she was done. Just in time, the serving boy brought her a fresh mug of ale.

"Ah, Bless you." Anna said, taking a sip of the foamy head.

Kris

01-10-2015, 12:23 PM

"Why do they want you?"

Gilliam swallowed. He licked his teeth as he searched his mind for a satisfying answer, but nothing crawled into his mind.

Anne, god bless the girl, started talking.

He was very intrigued by her conversation and questions and decided to glare long and hard at Morana and the others, as if saying, 'Give me few more minutes, answer the girl, and I will show my cards'.

Dnafein

01-10-2015, 01:52 PM

When the others turned back to witness Icarus' actions in stopping the dead, Finbaz continued to the room in which the young man had been held. The old mans curiousity out shone the interest in seeing things put to an end. He stopped at the entrance to the small cave that held Icarus and closed his eyes.

Finbaz stood a moment his scattered thoughts aligning. When he opened them the madness had not retreated from them instead it was joined by the deeper wisdom often associated with those who call themselves wizards. He stepped forward with purpose.

The old man crouched nimbly, his fingers tracing the symbols carved in the very rock of the small cave. With a huff he scraped brown stains away from a few of the sigils his brow creasing in concentration. Biting his finger in a long forgotten habit he jerked it away and frowned at it. Holding it close he could see nothing that explained the taste of blood that crept into his mouth.

Brushing the thought of an uninjured finger tasting of blood away Fizban spun where he stood, the spot in which Icarus had floated. The wizened eyes of the wizard flickering over the symbols and their pattern. Biting his finger in thought again he chased his thoughts down, and discovered an unhealthy opinion.

With a flourish Finbaz headed for the exit. He would demand to know why the young man was sealed away, sealed with magic that could hold something far more powerful then an ordinary person. Finding no one in the graveyard the old man proceeded back through the town. He dodged celebrating drunks and found himself occasionally dragged into a dance.

By the time Finbaz found himself outside the tavern, the wisdom was hidden behind the crazy twinkling in his eyes. He wasn't sure why but he still felt the need to kick the tavern's door open. Entering quickly behind the door the old man took what he thought was a heroic pose. Then blinked "This isn't where I parked my horse."

01-10-2015, 02:19 PM

Morana simply stared back at Gilliam, his smug mouth held firmly tight. Let him hide his untruths and twisted calculating words for a few more moments. No doubt he will give unsatisfactory answers regardless of the pause.

Holding her sides, Morana's eyes briefly and perhaps shyly glancing at the speaker. This young person spoke of introductions, Morana's eyes turned downward and she did not look directly at the others. Part of the resolve within her was fading, she didn't want to be there, didn't want to know these people. They held little interest to her.

Despite the crippling walls beginning to enclose her she listened. The words in her head were biting, venom remaining perhaps only due to Gilliam's presence. Was she expecting them to work together and further fix this intolerable idiot's issues? Anna Rose, how pathetically naive you are. There was little within her that could possibly trust any of these, she found it hard imagine working with them. Morana found it rather ironic that the group was receiving the speech from a thief, perhaps one the most despicably self centred groups of individuals she could think of. Perhaps because this one was drunk.

Oh, wait, Morana, this is judging.

She found her eyes on this Anna Rose now, her socialisation fear held at bay. Most of what the girl had said was irrelevant to her. Morana would only continue her journey if she found evidence that someone was ambitious enough to perform resurrection. None of this nonsense about sticking together.

It churned in her stomach however that she should be courteous.

Courage Morana. Courage. Courage. Courage.

She took the few steps she required to stand by the seated Gilliam, quickly she gathered her robe together and took a seat on the wizard's lap.

"I am Morana," she said, her face turned slightly toward Gilliam. She hoped she was making him terribly uncomfortable. "I'm completely broke, I know magical theory, and I killed a boy once.

"Let's all be friends."

The sarcasm dripped from her mouth. Courtesy.

Minkasha

01-10-2015, 02:40 PM

Icarus was not in the mood for social lightness that the drinking redhead had started up. Even more so as she explained herself to be villainous in lifestyle, which somehow provoked him. Deep down into the core of his heart did he discover a bubbling rage and disgust for her as she unveiled herself. And Gilliam took this opportunity to keep his mouth shut.

He gripped the staff given to him and it was the actual owner of the wooden weapon that just openly admitted to the murder of a young one. Physically did Icarus show a fierce and aggressive glare, those handsome eyes now filled with judgment in their brown beauty.

But turning his head quickly, his hair swooping, to Gilliam, he stepped closer to the table. Looming over the long haired man he dropped the staff, letting it slap against the table and then roll a bit on the ground of the tavern.

“I will not take arms from the murderer of the young” He shot a glance at Morana, now his fist grabbing into Gilliam’s robes, bent down so they were only inches apart, his eyes right into his former capturer’s. “And I will not accept silence from the secretive” There was a great charismatic power entwined in his proud voice. He was strong, bold, and confident. This straightforward force aimed now all at Gilliam.

“Speak, answer the question. Why do they want you?”

Naraness

01-13-2015, 03:21 AM

"Hey, hey, hey!" Anna exclaimed, shocked when the man, who was still a stranger to her, stood and refused to take arms with them. She thought it was crude that he could judge them for their imperfections when he clearly had issues of his own to work out.

Her eyes narrowed when he gripped Gilliam's tunic, snarling in his face. The way he demanded answers seemed callused and aggressive. "Get off of him, you barbarian! God!" Anna hopped out of her stool, attempting to shove him off of the wizard. It was fairly unsuccessful, as the brutish man seemed to be made of rock.

Feeling he might've been angered by her touch, Rose ducked, expecting him to strike her or lash out in some way.

Kris

01-14-2015, 11:58 AM

"I... Look... The thing is....", Gilliam mumbled under his breath, feeling the heavy aura, and hands that pulled at his robes, "I... this is a bit... I have something that... they want but-".

Anna's pleading were a merciful song, but no divine cared to listen..

Suddenly, Gilliam felt a great desire to rub his eyes. He did it few times before realizing that whatever that stuck in them wasn't planning to leave.

His eyes became watery and red, and soon even the air became somewhat suffocating. His vision became darker and his tongue felt like it was tasting...

Sand...

http://ak.picdn.net/shutterstock/videos/2849677/preview/stock-footage-sand-flying-through-fingers.jpg

Shit

"It's her...", he mumbled, and then looked at everyone, "So she knows....", he swallowed and then looked at Icarus, "Tabula rasa... The principle by which individuals are born a blank slate... I stole this from them...".

Everyone's eyes were faced at Gilliam, "Don't look too surprised, I told you they were trying to revive someone... I stole his vessel... well part of it anyway... I wouldn't consider it even stealing but...".

The sand got thicker.

Gilliam ran outside, hearing footsteps following him.

A sole blue portal was outside the Golden Rod.

http://www.thelivingmoon.com/42stargate/04images/Time_Tunnel/Sliders_Vortex.jpg

"I hate to do it, but I must go", he said, "This sand is unnatural, and will keep spreading... It's her way to summon me. Once I leave this village I will be carried away... If you truly wish to follow... or help... do it now, there will be a short time window for this sand portal to work, after which you won't be able to.

"The more I delay, the worse it will get....", he looked at Icarus, "Frankly, if I were you, I'd stay out of it, but it's up to you", he then looked at everyone, "And you", Gilliam then noticed Finbaz, "Same for you, the portal won't hold more than few minutes".

Crazywolf

01-14-2015, 12:56 PM

Jala had watched the drama unfold around her. The dark haired woman in robes seemed like the craziest one of the lot. Jala didn't know if the other woman was serious about having killed a boy but if so then that admission was somewhat disturbing. If she had had to sum it up right there and then she would have said that all of them were completely crazy.

It was at that moment she first noticed the sand filling the air around the table. She could also feel her eyes and nose starting to itch as the sand-dust got into them. Gilliam's reference to individuals as blank states only confused her. But with the ominous sand increasingly filling the air she had no intention of staying where she was.

Following Gilliam outside she stood and stared at the portal.

"Help with what" she replied. "You haven't even told us yet why the leader they are bringing back is such a threat. How does this one guy threaten the whole world?"

Dnafein

01-15-2015, 08:56 PM

Finbaz crossed his arms and glowered at the arguing compatriots he had recently acquired. Not only did none of them want to help him find his horse but they also were also getting angry at each other over the most ridiculous things. As he opened his mouth to comment on their silliness Gilliam started rubbing his eyes.

As the other wizard explained what he took, Finbaz recalled a question he asked himself in a cave and his eyes were drawn to Icarus. As the crowd moved outside Finbaz was pulled with them, silent as a war waged in the depths of his psyche.

The remaining sanity screamed at him to run, to turn his back and flee. It also demanded he do everything in his power to ensure Icarus never falls into the hands of those seeking Gilliam, especially if Icarus is what the old man thinks he is. The old man's eyes began to clear.

Finbaz opened his mouth and turned to Jala, "Imagine a being more powerful then anyone you ever met, who not only wields the power of a mage who has crossed into death and returned. But one who can also take anyone, or anything and strip from it everything that made it who it was. Turn it into a blank canvas it can then fill with whatever it wants to. Imagine someone who can take the you right out of you and turn your empty vessel into something you would never willingly be."

Inside his head however calm the exterior Finbaz battled against his raging insanity, which was coincidentally cackling like a mad man. Buried deep in the laughter was the source a single thought that was introduced and lost as his insanity saw the immediate humor in it. Unfortunately for the old wizard laughter is oft contagious.

Suddenly the thought returned, and his serious demeanor cracked. "And as you can tell by the sand, our time is running out." He started laughing at the reference, muttering to himself Finbaz walked towards the portal.

01-22-2015, 11:20 AM

Wearily Morana lowered her body to lift the staff from the tavern floor. Words of Icarus in her ears as her fingers scraped dust along the wooden surface, her eyes blind white. Her heart beat with terrible jolts, over and over. Despite the loud conversation around she could hear her fingers grip the pole, she refused the conversation occurring and moved steps away to the window.

She saw nothing. She felt her body shake. Her mind echoed. In weakness she may have uttered, “assumptions.”

Murderer.
Murderer.
Murderer.
Murderer.

In the blankness of recession she had no answer, no defense, for the emerging self hate.

All the darkness of her inner voice found the outlet it most desired. Willingly it began to strike over and over again.

Once more pathetic. Once more what you deserve.
Using the dark catalyst of your existence to... what?
Such a flippant expression used in the most foolish of ways.

They have every right to assume incorrectly.

Murderer.

Morana closed her eyes, feeling the sand assaulting her physical body.

She remembered. She remembered the crowd. She remembered them all around her. She remembered smoke.

She wiped her eyes, the sand burning.

She remembered his mother. Her face so broken. She remembered her, the mother she had wanted to please, spit the word in her face.

Witch.

It was chanted. The smoke, sand, in her eyes.

It was all an accident.

Does not matter.

Naraness

01-23-2015, 12:39 AM

Having ducked and moved away, Rose now noticed something... Strange. There on the ground, where she was now crouched, sand dusted the floor. She had to blink several times, trying to discern whether or not she was seeing correctly. "Maybe I did drink to much." She murmured, frowning. However, as she swept her hand over the floor, she could feel that the sand was indeed corporeal. Anna slowly rubbed the grains between her thumb and forefinger, glancing up when Gilliam started talking again. Her eyes widened when he ran out the door, towards an ethereal blue light.

Curious, Anna crawling under the table and then dashed outside. A cold breeze struck her as her eyes fell upon the object. "What is it?" She asked, her eyes wide with wonder as she gazed upon a luminescent gateway. Knowing nothing about magic, Anna could only assume that she knew what the circle of light did. Gilliam's words soon confirmed her suspicions. It was a portal... By the sounds of things, it wasn't going to a very nice place. Gilliam was being summoned by someone. Somehow, Anna didn't think that person would be happy to see him, or anyone else for that matter.

Anna Rose stared at the portal, her cloak fluttering in the wind. The people around her, who she still felt were strangers to her, seemed to fade away in her mind. Before her laid a single choice: Go or stay. If she stayed, she would return home to the people she knew and live out the rest of her life as a thief and a trickster. If she went through the portal, then she had the chance to become a hero. Anna slowly gulped, and stepped forward. She said nothing, simply going to stand by Gilliam's side. After a long moment of contemplation, she spoke.

"I'll go." Anna readjusted her cloak around her shoulders, standing up straight. Her sandy red hair brushed her cheek as a stray wind swept across her face. "Look, you all might have your reasons to stay or go. You might feel like your past is holding you down, or you don't want to be in the company of people like.. Me." Anna folded her arms, her gaze hardening. "But this is bigger than any one of us. I... I think we can do this, together." Anna swallowed hard, looking at the faces of the others who stood there. Jala, Morana, Iscarus... What would they choose?

Minkasha

01-23-2015, 04:08 AM

Icarus had stared at the woman who laid her hands upon him. She ducked, and he was more offended that she thought him to hit her than anything else. Her words were poison, but not a drop made him sick.

Gilliam was ambiguous, but then feats of magic became him. Yet again it only proved how much a danger the man was to this world. A victim who drew trouble to him.

“Tabula Rasa…” the man’s words slowly whispered. Gilliam’s advice wasn’t noted. The man had stripped him of choice once, should he come or stay was only up to himself now.

Everyone was running to the portal. The strong morality took hold his heart again, to save others, he must save Gilliam.

Rushing, he went into the portal.

Kris

01-23-2015, 10:14 PM

"Shouldn't you go with them?", said Ogg Ermin.

http://www.thephotographermovie.com/images/Bartender.png

Morana hardly cared and seemed only busy with her thoughts.

That only got Ogg Ermin to be even more angry. He just wanted them all gone. The others have already left and some of them that still decided what to do next waited outside.

He wanted that girl gone too.

He picked her up by the cloths as he rushed to the door with her, holding as if she was a trash he needed to throw out.

Well, Of course, the inn keeper only cared for her to be thrown outside, but what happened next took even him by a surprise.

***

Gilliam was about to answer Jala when Morana was tossed outside.

The sand got thicker, and for some reason so did the wind.

Without understanding what followed, Morana got thrown into the portal.

Ogg Ermin looked surprised. He sure didn’t want the poor girl to be thrown at the portal… just outside.

Gilliam rushed after her trying to grab her hands. After all, it didn't look like she was willing to leave. But it failed.

"Damn!", Gilliam cursed as he jumped after her, without knowing if anyone else followed.

He was sure he felt Anna, Icarus and Finbaz, but was split from them as he was sucked into the worm hole.

http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd181/shifted_reality/WormHole.jpg

Next… he found himself hitting sand.

It was rough and hot…

http://www.pen.org/sites/default/files/nubian-desert-2-of-2.jpg

He felt himself drained and despite the fact he didn't know where he was, he realized he was alone. The others were sent here as well, but most likely had been isolated as well. He had to find them and guide them before....

"Get up!", he heard a familiar voice. He sighed.

He knew where he was now.

It was going to be complicated from here on out, and he only hoped the others, whoever that decided to follow him that is, were safe and in one piece.

To be continued…