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Post by TheZebraShakes™ on Jul 30, 2009 10:48:16 GMT -5
The Academy has grown concerned after a few months have passed with the dismemberment of a band of child snatching orcs not doing much to quell the rise of kidnappings and persons gone missing in the small villages which dot the countryside. Residents are not sure of exactly what is going on, but they are convinced that the cases are related and fear that their children and fellow villagers are being mistreated somehow, killed, or forced into slavery somewhere on the other side of the mountain range.
A few have managed to break away from their captors on occasion, returning home bruised and bloody. But those who have returned have not ventured farther than the closest mountain caverns, none have returned who have seen their final destination.
Despite the lack of a guaranteed payment or other such reward, a group of concerned students volunteer to investigate further and try to put an end to whatever is going on knowing that it will take them into the mountains, far from the Academy.
Ana, Garor, Noic, and Aravos make the long trek to Greenvale, a mountainside town where the group of orcs were defeated and the Academy was first made aware of the suspicious kidnappings.
After a few days of traveling, it is night time when the students of adventure finally reach Greenvale. The town guard is expecting the visit and the four are escorted to the main square where within a church/town hall, the mayor of the small village, a tall woman with light blond hair by the name of Mercy, is there to greet the adventurers.
Also present is a man clad in adventuring gear, a human called Finnius, eager to explore the case of missing persons as well.
Mercy thanks the small group for gathering together to take on what is likely to be a challenging and risky endeavor.
She will do her best to address any immediate questions or concerns and will point any in the right direction if they have any specific requests or needs to fulfill such as food, supplies, and any other help that her town can offer in order to prepare the group for the upcoming mission.
Most of the town is beginning to turn in for the night, but allowances can be made.
There is an inn where the group may rest until morning, or they can head out immediately once any issues have been resolved.
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(I'm not sure if Arcaus is still with us, but if so, he will be introduced as the ranger who will be able to help lead the group through the mountains)
Player notes:
Ana, Noic, and Garor are all characters who have played in the first half of this story. It is not necessary for the current Players to worry about any of that, but if they are interested in a brief synopsis and how their character might fit in then read on.
Group is sent to escort two jewelers to a big city, with Greenvale as a stopover. Group finds out that orcs are demanding large sums of money from local towns and if they can't pay, they take prisoners, mainly young men. Group sets up assault on orcs and takes them out successfully.
The group would remember Mercy and know that she is an Aasimar
Noic has a friend here, Taylor, a young aspiring adventurer who risked his life to save Noic's during the battle with the orcs.
Nothing in this adventure will rely on past information so everyone should feel free to start with a clean slate, and if anything should come up, I'll give TheUdjat the burden of remembering it or bringing it to light for the others since he was a player in the first part of the story.
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Post by tork8342 on Jul 30, 2009 13:06:19 GMT -5
Noic will seek out Taylor and have a drink with him tonight before bed..........assuming that everyone wants to wait till in the morning to leave.
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Post by TheUdjat on Jul 31, 2009 1:14:31 GMT -5
Nothing in this adventure will rely on past information so everyone should feel free to start with a clean slate, and if anything should come up, I'll give TheUdjat the burden of remembering it or bringing it to light for the others since he was a player in the first part of the story. [And to second that--if anyone has questions or wants filler info, just ask. I'll try to drop explanations in narrative/dialogue though if I refer to past stuff.]
Ana feels a strange sense of nostalgia on the road back to Greenvale. Despite the heaviness of their purpose and the trials and tribulations of the past visit, Ana made many fond friendships on that fateful trip with Marlowe and Edrianna. Sure, they weren't the kind of friends you knew all your life, but they were bonds born of struggle and battle and heroism, on all their parts, and their was something great in that.
These were good people that they'd helped in a time of need. It felt good to be seeing them again.
Hell. She even kind of missed the goblins.
Traveling with Garor and Noic again added a touch of nostalgia as well. The strange-colored Noic and metal-spurning Garor were odd companions, especially for dwarves, but she liked them all the same. Aravos was new to her, but if he wanted to help break up a ring of slavers for no hint of profit, then he couldn't be a bad sort.
As she rode into town on her horse, Ana found herself eyeing the beautiful bracelet covering one wrist, the very unique present sent to her following their last venture here. She'd cherished it ever since, keeping it with her even while pursuing orcs and other ill sort on a different journey. She half-hoped to see the jewelers on this trip, but of course that was silly. Those two traveled, and only stopped over in Greenvale, though Ana was sure that Jade, the nervous barmaid, wouldn't mind seeing Marlowe more frequently--if she was even still around.
Time had passed. Things could be very different now.
Bearing that in mind as the group rides into town, Ana nods cordially to the guards, and is happy when they are brought to Mercy, remembering the aasimar from before. "Good to see you again," Ana says. Shadow, her dog, greets Mercy in a somewhat more affectionate manner. "And nice to meet you, Finnius. Our cause could always use more." She offers him a smile.
When the usual greetings and small talk are out of the way--mostly asking after the other villagers she met before--Ana steers the conversation back to the purpose of their journey. "We'll be leaving in the morning," she says, "working off of what information we have from escapees. It's not much to go on, but it's something. I don't suppose you've heard anything new that might be useful--who the leader of this ring might be, for instance." She's not hoping for much--she figures all the information is probably already in their hands, leaving them to do the rest the hard way--firsthand. "Even if someone might remember what weapons they have, or whether there are spellcasters among them. Anything could be useful." Otherwise, Ana has nothing terribly pressing to do. She'll enjoy a round of drinks with the others if they're inclined, and will chat amiably with townfolk, retiring semi-early to get a good night's rest--possibly the only one she'll have for some time. Shadow, of course, sleeps outside her door as is his habit.
She hopes there are no surprises in the night this time. |
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Post by Wicksy on Jul 31, 2009 7:11:46 GMT -5
Finnius trudges through town somewhat dejected. Having lost his horse at a game of cards, he was ill equipped to aquire a new one. Deciding that stealing back what he'd lost was not a good idea he decided that a brisk stroll instead would be fine. However seeing the ruffians and idiots face to face made him rethink. With a sigh he pushes past the door to the local tavern and sits down. Eying a few potential maidens, Finnius saunters to the bar and orders a drink. Unfortunately all that was on offer was a foul ale or an even fouler wine. Deciding that wine was more a of a gentlmenly choice, he leans back in his chair to watch the others. It seemed that most were just locals. Half wits and inbreds. However the group at one of the tables....two dwarves and a half elf. Interesting...they had to be adventurers.....perhaps they would provide a welcome distraction.
Making idle chit chat with the serving girls Finnius eventually sits down on a table next to the group. He pulls a small book from his bag and begins to study its pages though he keeps his ears peeled listening for gossip. Discussions of the academy and reaquainting themselves with the town stir a memory....a story told by one of the inbreds of a mercanary group who slew a band of orcs, dispatched supposedly from an adventuring academy.
Deciding they were likely a group of like minded, if poorly bred individuals Finnius walks to the table, bows slightly and introduces himself "Greetings fellow travellers, i am Finnius Abernecht. I too seek out adventure and fortune. I have heard much of your exploits from the greatful populice. I would be honoured if you would furnish me with tales of your travels. I can but offer only an ale or two from the bar keep, though perhaps you are looking for a warrior with a keen eye?"
OOC description of Finnius: Finnius appears to be a rather fopish dandy. Dressed in some of the latest court fashions he looks quite out of place. You would be tempted to dismiss his offers of his 'warrior' skills outright were it not for the well crafted repeating crossbow on his back, his finely wrought matched rapier and dagger on his belt and mithril chainshirt barely visible beneath his well cut jacket and neck ruffle.
OOC 2: Finnius will, if invited to stay buy a few rounds of drinks for all and tap them for information regarding their prior travels. Mainly as he's bored and also because he smells potential.
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Post by at on Jul 31, 2009 7:48:49 GMT -5
Garor had grown restless at the academy, with no more word of the metal sickness few had the inclination to heed his warnings.
Perhaps this expedition would uncover some new clue. It had been too long since he had visited the mountains, a obvious starting point in hindsight.
The kidnappings too concerned him as it spoke of some greater activity just beyond view, one that may spread suddenly into the lands just as the sickness that hid in wait for his people.
It was pleasant to be out in the open again, and the free drink at their destination a welcome start to their adventures. This man Finnius seemed one of intellect, he would appreciate the dwarf's wisdom.
Long into the night, or at least as long as he can hold him, Garor speaks of the great curse, the fall of his people, and the sickness that lay hidden within the metal.
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Post by TheZebraShakes™ on Jul 31, 2009 10:49:51 GMT -5
(Sheesh Wicksy. . . it's a short, work with me, not against me  haha) ----- ----- ----- Before everyone heads off to the inn for some drinks and relaxation, Ana tries to get as much info as she can from Mercy. Unfortunately, the mayor knows about as much as the adventurers. " We have no way of knowing who is behind all of this and why it is happening. We haven't much contact with the cities and towns on the other side of the mountains aside from the caravans which travel through and those are few and far between. All we know is that different villages are being targeted, ones which are now less prepared than those such as Greenvale which already have knowledge of the kidnappers and are beginning to form defenses."
"Reports are still telling of small bands of armed orcs, and at times with a hideous ogre or two looming in the back to further instill fear and intimidation. The added muscle could very well be the precaution taken after suffering a defeat here. But still, they do not state what their business is or what they hope to gain through taking these young people."The group has enough information from the escapees to point them in the right direction in terms of the mountain paths traveled up to a certain point, but after that it seems that they will be left to their own devices, putting their skills and talents to the test. Noic and Ana ask after their friends at the inn and those who helped in the battle. Mercy is glad to inform the two that all are well. Taylor, Jade, and Jasper are still keeping the Mockingbird Inn up and running. Eager to drink and reunite with old friends the group head toward the inn, candle light shining through the windows and the scent of sapid food in the air. Taylor, the young human who tends to the inn's stables is there to greet the group and put up the horses. He is especially excited to see his friend Noic and gives the dwarf a heartfelt hug and hello. Inside it is warm and the fire burns brightly. The innkeeper Jasper says that the rooms and food are on the house tonight, obviously grateful for what the young heroes are doing and have done in the past. Garor shares stories of his clan and their search for a cure with Finnius. Taylor is happy to sit and talk over a meal with Noic. He asks about the Academy and any quests that Noic has been assigned with lately. He is glad to report that his injuries from the orc fight have fully healed. "I wanna come out with you all and kill more of those orcs, but my uncle Jasper, I know it'd just upset him, and I don't really wanna upset him right now, y'know. I know you'll figure out what's goin' on out there and maybe when you get back. . . maybe I can come with you to that Academy." the boy (15 years of age or so) clearly looks up to Noic and the dwarf knows that Taylor would probably be the first one into the mountains leading the way with his enthusiasm if he had the opportunity to join the group. Ana is greeted with a big hug from Jade, the red haired daughter of the innkeeper. She appears to be in good spirits despite the fact that Finnius keeps giving her the eye. She wishes Ana good luck in getting to the bottom of things and if asked about the jewelers Edrianna and Marlowe, she smiles and her green eyes brighten. "They are well. Marlowe came through town a few more times and we were able to talk together for hours. We write letters now and he says that he will bring me to see the ocean soon. I think he trusts me, he knows I won't hurt him like that other girl did." Jade cannot offer much more help in regard to the kidnappings, but she too has heard of the ogres venturing out from the mountains and into the villages with the orcs. There have also been more reports of goblins wrangling bears, but somehow that seems completely unrelated. Aravos is of course free to do as he wishes as well. The group may carry on with their night as they wish. In the morning it will be time to head out. ----- (Last call for more replies, any further interaction, plans / prep for the morning's journey.) |
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Post by TheUdjat on Jul 31, 2009 13:11:28 GMT -5
There have also been more reports of goblins wrangling bears, but somehow that seems completely unrelated.
Normally, a man like Finnius heading her way would be both perplexing and not altogether confidence-inspiring. Ana's used to working with dwarves--the wise druid and uncouth-but-brave warrior, and even is that wizard who was a bit like a liquor-laden dwarf himself. Aravos is even a bit of a change, and this one?
But she's in a good mood. Old friends, new starts, free food... sure, why not? Besides, if Finnius if around her, he'll be spending less time ogling Jade, which will give Ana herself less cause to start an incident. "Hey Finnius," she says to his rather elaborate introduction. "I'm Anaqualia--or just Ana. The green dwarf's Noic, the other's Garor, and our quiet elf is Aravos." She smiles. "A keen-eyed warrior, you say? Well, we're not exactly hunting a bounteous fortune, but if you've an interest in charging into the lion's den, as it were, to rescue farmers and townspeople enslaved by ruthless orcs, you're welcome aboard." She watches the man closely. Adventurers strictly after profiteering really weren't her style. Ana joined the business because bandits killed her father, not because she wanted fame and riches--though there is an oddly steep compliment of gold that seems to come with the work. Adventurers out for themselves struck her as little better than bandits themselves.
The job had no pay, high danger. What would Finnius say to that?
Chatting with Jade, Ana is glad to hear about Marlow and Edrianna, and further pleased that he's kept in contact with the sweet barmaid. "You haven't seen the ocean?" she remarks unthinking. Of course the girl hasn't. Most villagers seldom go far from home. "Well he definitely should take you sometime. And I know you wouldn't be like that other girl. Tell him hello for us in your next letter, would you? And Edrianna, too." She inwardly wonders if the rather brusque Marlowe would care or pass on such word anyway, but the thought's there.
For the rest of the evening, Ana listens to stories and chats, taking more water than ale, and pays particularly close attention to Garor's story. She's always been fascinated by the dwarf's reasons for adventuring, and would love nothing more than to help him figure out a cure to his clan's peculiar curse. It seems elusive, though, as ever. But who knows what tomorrow will bring?
Ana tells few of her own stories. Most of them already know about them, and Noic tells them in a far more entertaining way.
When morning comes, Ana is up and ready to go at break of dawn, eager to use as much daylight as they have, no doubt infuriating her comrades. |
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Post by tork8342 on Jul 31, 2009 13:45:16 GMT -5
"I wanna come out with you all and kill more of those orcs, but my uncle Jasper, I know it'd just upset him, and I don't really wanna upset him right now, y'know. I know you'll figure out what's goin' on out there and maybe when you get back. . . maybe I can come with you to that Academy." "Well Taylor my boy while I'm sure your eager to go off throwing yourself into danger for anothers sake. Your family will always be just that family and they are the ones that matter most. While I will miss having you on this journey, I understand why you can not go. And as long as it's ok with your uncle Jasper when I return I will take you to the academy with me." Seeing finnius coming towards them dressed in such an snobish fashion. He eyes him up and down. Never liking his type. he lets ana do the talking and nods when he's introduced. And returns to drinking and telling Taylor stories of past adventures. The next morning Noic rises early. Before the sun is completely up and cleans his armor and shield and sharpens his axe. And is ready to leave when the sun is completly up. |
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Post by similar on Aug 1, 2009 6:13:33 GMT -5
OOC: my graphics driver died just as this started. I have failed to resurrect my computer since so am trying to pen a reply between customers today at work. I may have something up by the end of today unless we are busy. Sorry for the delay.
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Post by TheZebraShakes™ on Aug 4, 2009 12:31:20 GMT -5
(If anyone has anything else to add so I know who's definitely with us, please get on that. Otherwise I'm gonna be away and won't get a chance to update again until Monday.)
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Post by Wicksy on Aug 5, 2009 7:14:15 GMT -5
Finnius raises an eyebrow at Ana's response. Danger and no pay....not the greatest of heroic endeavors. "Ah.....the noble act of selfless charity. I would join you then if you would have me. My soul requires that, which money cannot buy"
This was true.....for the last three weeks he'd worked his way around every seedy tavern. There were more than a few annoyed husbands and fiances that would like a long discussion with Finnius. Perhaps a trip to the countryside would be a welcome distraction. It may even further enhance his reputation.
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Post by TheUdjat on Aug 5, 2009 10:22:15 GMT -5
Ana raises an eyebrow at his choice of words, but nods acquiescence anyway. He can come along. Gods know they need every swordarm they can get. "We're glad to have you, then." She smiles welcoming. "I hope you like the smell of orcblood." She intends to spill a great deal of it, if it comes to it.
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Post by similar on Aug 5, 2009 16:00:34 GMT -5
There were good and bad sides to studying at the academy. Aravos had learnt some useful magic during his daytime studies there. However socially it was a very limited community. He must have tried to entertain every good looking woman there, plus a few others. It was getting boring, possibly even for them. He needed fresh stories or fresh women.
Hearing about a mission to save kidnapped children Avaros decided it was just what he needed. What maidens heart would not soften on hearing heroic tales of child rescuing? The travelling time away from distractions would give him time to work on a song he had had in his head for days.
As they came to the village Avaros was still working on his piece and seeing as the others had all been here before he left them to it. They did not seem to find out anything new though.
Things looked up as they made the way to the inn. It turned out to be a fairly dreary rural affair however. It made Avaros realise maybe the academies bars were more lively then he gave them credit for.
He had to chuckle as a ridiculously dressed man, obviously trying to listen in to them whilst trying to remain nonchalant, produced a copy of an awfully written book. Surprisingly the man with bad taste in books volunteered to help. His advance seemed to make Ana uneasy.
Avaros lent over to Ana and in a jolly tone offers her a suggestion “My dear lady, you should give the poor guy a chance, he is just trying to get on your good side... I can completely understand him. Who wouldn’t? I can see many reasons to be on that side of you myself.” With a wink he goes back to jotting in his lyrics book.
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haha)