Fantasy The First Curse |Crimson Order Campaign IC

[Ryse]

"What? Trouble? In Falwood? Darlin, nothin ever happens out in these woods~" The Old Mill Innkeeper​

Enigmatic hell hounds croon havoc, vexation upon the sands, while the predatory, apex of the beast remains nestled within the safety of sovereign jungle walls. They suckle, drink heavily at thee breast of life, birthed into a world of lecherous animosity and fevered bedlam based upon the preaching of depravity. Based within the throes of primeval world, of primal instinct and fervid inamorata. The old testaments, and wills upon which the livid enchantments of history confound upon, ligaments and tissues of a lascivious heart of archaic, rustic mystery. How profound, this Bible of deceit, it bids you welcome adventurer. Stay, if but for the breath of a moment and let us welcome you, o' gracious guest, unto the very enthralling lips of enigmatic Eden. Walk among those of barbaric enticement, lingering primeval ghosts. Prolific monoliths of times well passed, and yet still they remain, straying remnants of a world which refuses to change. Taste the euphoric rapture, the bitter, acrid knife of betrayal slipping amorously between lithe, dulcet ribs. Enthrall in the cataclysmic mutiny of two worlds expanding, imploding, clashing against one another in a heated affair. Walk in the wake of monstrous beasts, their paths unfurled as if coaxing closer, closer still the rush of a curious mind until gnashing severity of fangs sever all thought from a feeble stem and cerebral musings. This is the world of beast and monsters~

And speaking of monsters, it seemed one in particular was on the move. Keen eyes shifting back and forth over the evergreen as the wind whistled overhead with a gentle gust of wind. A lone wolf, a woman traveled along the dirt path quietly. Observing her surroundings and dreading every step she took forward. The sun had stalked her since the day began and exhaustion was quickly overwhelming the dark huntress as sweat trickled down her forehead and her breathing became heavier as the journey went on. Luckily however the sun was finally sinking into the depths of the horizon ahead and allowing the moon to slowly take its place in the night sky after the brief period of twilight. The Huntress did not typically visit southern lands, especially the war torn country of Sirius. But her prey had forced her to the bleeding land and as a result she found herself dodging bandits and avoiding the military by sticking to the woodlands just a few miles off from the main road.

The raven haired woman inhaled deeply through her nostrils and clenched her fist around the handle of her briefcase in irritation.

'How much further?' She thought aloud, a hymning sound flaring within her mind as the link to her Familiar reached back to communicate a reply.

'Not far, my beloved wolf. However, this one sees trouble ahead, would you like to divert our course?' A soft, warming voice informed, making the woman quirk a brow as she began to sniff the air in attempts to catch a scent. She noticed it then, just barely masked by the smell of fresh water. The fresh scent of recently spilled blood, although...not human from what she could gather.

'Oh? A beast? I smell blood' The huntress questioned, finding her heart thrashing within her chest at the thought of a new hunt so soon. There was a brief silence before the familiar replied.

'The most violent beast of all, dear wolf.' She mused before chuckling darkly, clearly amused by whatever she was witnessing. 'Humans~'

The Wolf paused, stopping in her tracks as a grimace flickered across her face.

Trouble in these woods? And by humans? Getting involved might not of been the best idea for her now but she had come way to far to simply tuck tail and go the other way. The sun was also still up and the heat that beamed upon her flesh through the treeline kept her exhausted and particularly vulnerable, last thing she needed was a conflict right now.

'Show me~' She demanded, remaining still on the dirt path as a flood of energy pulsed within her eyes. Those crimson optics fluctuating with energy as her pupils tightened and a blue shine could be seen emanating from within the crimson lens of her glasses. Her own sight began to grow dark as the vision from her familiar overshadowed her own sight. The Familiar flew overhead in the shape of a raven, its eyes peering down at the sight of a group of men and a couple of women gathered around what looked to be a traveling Elven family. The Huntress found it hard to see any further details from the sheer height her familiar was flying. 'Get closer, can't make much out from that height.' She ordered, the Raven slowly descended closer to the earth before flying to a nearby branch just above the scene taking place.

With this position the whole situation just became a lot more clearer. The group were standing around three bodies which were gruesomely strangled to death which explained why The Wolf had failed to catch a scent sooner, the only blood that was spilled was from one of the bodies that had apparently smashed their head against a stone when falling down. A boy, probably a teenager given how young he appeared for an elf, a mother, clearly the elder of the family...and a child. Buried within her mothers arms as the men all stood beside one another. Her heart tightened at the display, clenching her jaw tightly as she focused her attention on the men who she presumed to be the culprits.

"Well, at least we got a little coin and some supplies. Think they're from around here? Maybe they've got a house or somethin?" One of the men asked, counting through a couple coin purses that must have come from the unfortunate souls who were unlucky enough to cross their path. A larger man stroked his grizzled beard, one whole side of his face practically burned away and horribly scarred.

"Maybe, if they do then they might also have some more stuff we can take sell. We need money to get to Tortuga, especially since we lost our damn ship even getting over here. They came from that way and i remember hearing about some old Elves running some kind of inn at an old mill. We can head up that way, get some rest and maybe if no one else is there we can ya know...do our thing. Out in these woods i doubt the place will be too occupied." The man explained, making the others simply nod their heads in agreement. After they all decided what to do next a couple of women in their group grabbed the bodies they had murdered and dragged them off to the river beside them, tossing the bodies into the water and watching them float downstream before climbing back up the hill, climbing into the back of a well decorated wagon being pulled by a couple of horses and continued off the dirt path and onto a stone road leaving up the river.

The Huntress closed her eyes and severed the visual link connecting she and her familiars eyesight.

'Shall this one follow? Hunt them, the wolf shall?' Her familiar asked, making the young wolf sigh deeply before continuing on the dirt road.

'Oh no, not doing that shit again. Last time i got involved with such affairs during the daytime i ended up locked in a bloody cage, so no, leave them be. I don't want to get mixed up in anything they have going on. But i do need to rest, we've been on the move for days and the next town is still a few days away. So we'll be going to the inn that they're heading too as well. If anything maybe my presence can keep them in check...if not, theeeeeen i guess i'll just try and avoid them. I'd rather not risk a fight this deep into Sirius Territory, especially not with the Sirius Military just looking for an excuse to throw people in jail. So just calm your ass down and fly ahead m'kay? I swear your hunger for blood outshines mine ya make it look like yer fuckin starvin. Just keep me informed.' The Wolf explained, rolling her shoulders and making her way to the stone road and slowly heading up towards the Old Mill Inn.

After about an extra hour of time had passed the moon was finally overhead and the night had speckled the obsidian sky with flecks of silver. Eventually the wolf found herself approaching the Inn at long last, and stationed at the stable were the horses who were originally pulling the wagon she had seen flee the scene of the crime. It was parked off to the side of the inn and smoke emanated from the chimney. The smell of freshly cooked meals filled the air and the bustling of chatter radiated from within the lit up Inn.

The fluttering of wings flapped nearby as the old Raven came flying down from the sky and landing upon her shoulder as a black cat, shifting forms now that they were going to be settling within a confined, populated space. The Huntress could smell others within the inn, so at the very least the thugs and the Inn Owners weren't the only ones inside. Good, this lifted some of the tension from her shoulders and maybe she could actually get a meal and sleep without keeping an eye open.

And so she made her way to the Inn, approaching the front door and pushing it open with an audible 'creeeeeeek'. Forcing some of the individuals inside to shift their gaze over to the mysterious young woman who made her way inside, draped in High Class clothes of a fashion clearly not a commoner and nor was she a simple traveler. And carrying a large Briefcase by her side with a black cat perched on her opposite shoulder made it clear to anyone who merely observed the woman that she was clearly not from around here. Silver framed sunglasses concealing her eyes behind crimson lenses as her coat fluttered slightly in the breeze. She was well dressed, her hair tied back into a ponytail with a red ribbon holding it back nice and neat. Dark colored lipstick graced upon full lips and a silver cross dangling from black and red beads wrapped around her forearm and wrist. She was an...unusual character to say the least, especially in Sirius.

"Oh my, another one huh? Such a busy night this is! Go on and take a seat honey we'll be right with ya!" An older lady' voice rang, a tall elf with a head of silver locks. Clearly either the Innkeeper or a Barmaid...or both, finding employees must not of been an easy thing to do this far out. She carried several platters along her arms and within both hands masterfully, serving the patrons ale and food one table at a time. Surprisingly the Inn was well populated despite being so far away from the main city, supposed she wasn't the only one traveling out this way. There were a couple older men in cloaks, sitting alone at their own table playing some sort of card game. A woman off to the far corner sleeping in her chair, some elves blabbering about something or another and even the thugs she had seen earlier sitting in the back whispering among themselves. Her eyes did not linger of them long, she found herself looking back at the white haired elf as she finished delivering her payload and pulled he hair back and wrapped it up with a rubber band. Quickly marching back to the front of the inn and vanishing into the kitchen where she could see some other, similarly appearing Elves working.

So this was a family establishment...how lovely. The Wolf chuckled softly to herself, finding an empty table and setting her briefcase down beside her leg and pulling off her jacket. Revealing a dark burgundy colored shirt and a black corset with silver trimmings hugging her waist. Silver chains hanging from her hips and down her thighs as the Huntress took a seat and huffed, the cat on her shoulder now resting on the table and grooming herself as the dark haired woman waited for the Bar Maid to return.

It was going to be a very interesting night~

Xio
Epiphany
Probably George
Blitzer

(For those of you who have put up your character sheets you are now free to introduce yourselves to the scent. The first major phase will begin later in the scene, get them social juices flowing and remember to have fun.)

 

[Probably George]

With the sun finally breaking the Horizon, a group of adventurers deep into their travels have finally awoken. Rays of light danced through spaces between the trees with no care for the destination. One of these rays managed to strike a young boy in the eye. But this wasn't your typical boy, he was a Kenku. Unlike most of the others he was with, the bird was already fully matured. Just physically. Mentally, he was still a child. As such, the light striking his eye brought him into a poor awakening.

As he got up, the bird checked to make sure his companion was alright. As it turned out, the small stuffed bear was just a good as it was the night before. In general, the stuffed toy was in poor shape. The figure was many years old, almost as old as the bird himself. It was the first token of kindness he'd received from another, so he would protect it with his life. "Vanna!" He called out to the bear. He did this every single morning since he acquired the toy. He did this so that he could always remember the kind lady whom granted him the gift.

The bird's squawk woke one of the other adventurers. A young tiefling boy. The boy got up and greeted the bird. "Good morning Dink." He called the Kenku. It was the closest thing to a name he had. In reality, Dink would say the word "Dink" as a threat to those he was trying to mug. Most of the time though, he would randomly say it, like a twitch. Eventually, the Kenku adopted it as his name and the biggest word in his vocabulary.

With the others now up, they enjoyed a bit of breakfast and went back to their travels. The majority of the day had passed before the group came upon a fork in the road. "This is it-" the old Oread called to Dink. "We're gonna continue north to Jhal. If you take the east road, you should hit a village soon. Good luck Dink." The young bird squawk in compliance. As he split from the group, they waved goodbye to each other. Maybe he'd get to meet them again.

Just as gracefully as it broke the horizon, the Sun was now succumbing to it. Dink would have to find shelter soon. Luckily, as he climbed past a hill, he saw a decently large village lit up. Filled with joy, Dink started running down to the village. Once he arrived, he immediately started looking for a warm place to sleep. After wondering for a bit, Dink decided to tug at a stranger's clothes to grab their attention. "Go to sleep!" He imitated the Oread from before. At first dumbfounded, the man eventually understood what the Kenku was talking about. "Oh, sleep? There's a tavern just down the road. The one with the sign." He pointed Dink in the direction.

Going through the door, Dink saw how bustling the Inn was. Normally not a fan of crowds, Dink decided this was better than nothing. So many different voices, all in their own conversations. There were some that were off on their own though. Maybe Dink could get some free food with some pity points. Scanning the room brought a few options. The thugs at the bar were an immediate no. The men playing cards? Probably not. He didn't trust people covered by drapes. Oh! There was middle aged woman with what seemed like her pet cat. Bingo!

From his experience, women were a lot more generous, so his chances were much better. Not to mention the cat on her shoulder. If she loved animals, then this would be more than perfect. Dink gripped tightly onto the latches of his bag as he made his way closer to the woman. Once he approached her, Dink hesitated a bit. She had an intimidating aura surrounding her. But he'd already made it this far. Nothing to lose. "Dink!" He called out to her. Forgetting the word 'food', Dink clacked his beak to imitate eating.

Ryse

 

[Epiphany]

With a stretch, Vrutha woke from her late nap and blinked sleep out of her eyes. Judging by the darkness outside, she'd missed sunset. Perhaps she should just go back to bed? But then her stomach rumbled and the orc sighed before rising out of her bed.

She'd taken an escort job from a distant city to a border city in Sirius. Given all the conflict in this country, there was good coin to be made in the mercenary work. But after several bloody engagements with bandits and a roving pack of goblins, Vrutha had enough coin to indulge some curiosity and make the trek to Demaci. Not that someone like her would fit into a place like that. She'd spent enough years around humans and elves and the like to know how little they cared for her kind. But she'd also learned that an orc by herself, with a weapon handy and a steady pace towards business was rarely bothered. Vrutha had even managed accommodations at this village inn by simply presenting herself at the door and politely asking for a room. The elves running the place looked shocked enough she might have gotten lodgings for free!

Vrutha yawned as her stomach growled again before slinging her leather coat on. Concealing the chainmail kept nervous pink-skins a little calmer. Especially since she took the Skullsplitter with her. At least she kept the blade wrapped in peacecloth while in Sirius lands. Kept the military from being too jumpy and did wonders for letting taverns like this one put up with taking it everywhere. Truth was, it was all that remained of her tribe and the thought of letting it out of her sight pained her in ways she couldn't describe.

The orc woman descended the stairs from her small, private room and peered into the common room, noticing a mix of humans, elves and a...

Was that a Kenku? She hadn't seen one in a year and had spoken to one never. The small bird looked busy accosting the matron of the establishment. Catching the elf's eye, Vrutha inclined her head towards the far bar stool where she'd taken her lunch upon arrival and the woman nodded, looking a bit relieved.

Not surprising. Just walking across the room slowed the flow of conversation as people took in the tusks and greenish hue of her skin. If she'd taken a table in the middle of the room, Vrutha knew she'd end up with a buffer zone around her, costing the establishment valuable seating space. The far bar stool meant they'd only lose out on the seat next to her.

As the orc woman settled into her chair, her eyes landed on the remarkable woman sitting by herself. That was city garb, the kind a noble might wear, and traveling with a briefcase and a cat was somewhere a league south of eccentric. Yet there was an elemental ferocity in the striking traveler that explained somewhat her lack of guards. A human woman alone invited predators but something suggested bandits would find themselves prey if they tried.

"Huh," Vrutha said softly to herself before turning back to the bar counter. Spying a pot of stew, the orc caught the attention of a spare waitstaff and simply pointed at it. She'd be served soon enough.

In the meantime, Vrutha turned back to study the most unusual traveler she'd seen in months besides herself.

 

[Ryse]

Mothers warn your sons, the woods was a dangerous place; the dark forest of every fairy tale, where the terrible old monster was lurking and waiting for unsuspecting prey to be led into its vicious jaws. Naivety of youth always drove them in, towards the look alike goblins that lured with smiling faces. But beyond the perfume this was no fairy tale: the only lurking demons she knew were right in front of her in the shape of a harmless black cat. Cinder was always such a bemusing little familiar, always preferring to take the shape of animals rather than horrifying form that Vanessa summoned her in. Perhaps it was for the best though, last thing she needed while sitting in a tavern full of easily spooked humans was a wraith radiating from her very own shadow. God she could see the fire now just imagining the scene.

'BURN THE WITCH' they'd say.

'In league with the devil she is!' they'd accuse.

And in the end...they weren't completely wrong. The Wolf was indeed a wicked Witch, and she had indeed made a deal with the devil. It was this simple truth that led to the complete genocide of the Valentine Family and for that reason alone Vanessa found it best to just lay low. Very few knew who or what she was and she planned on keeping it that way, hell, most of her clients only suspected her of being a simple beast hunter and that suited her just fine. Her thoughts were pushed aside when Cinder purred audibly and pressed her head against Vanessa' forearm. Likely sensing that The Huntress was getting lost in her mind again. And so the Gothic woman lifted a hand and began to run her fingers along the spine of her eternal companion.

Taking a deep breath Vanessa reached down to grab her suitcase and pull it up onto the table with her. Popping it open and lifting up one end she'd look at the pile of clothes, tools, cases, and other such items she had neatly organized within before reaching within and pulling out a small bottle of ink, a quill, and a booklet. After gathering the three items she closed the case and put it back down beside her. Rolling up the sleeves to her crimson shirt she then popped open the ink and dipped the quill inside as she opened the booklet which appeared to simply be a lot of gibberish. A language thought to be lost that she and a handful of others actually knew. Scribbling into the journal and documenting the most recent happenings of the last few days she focused intently on her work when suddenly a word hit her ears.

"DINK!"

Vanessa stopped her writing almost instantly as she blinked from behind her red tinted sunglasses. Her gaze shifting down beside her to see a lone Kenku clacking its beak at her and making the woman smack her lips suspiciously. "Uhhhhhh~" She began, both Cinder and Vanessa exchanged confused glances before returning their eyes to the black bird. "Dink? You need somethin sweet pea?" She asked curiously before looking around the inn to see if there was anyone who looked to be with him. There were so many scents in the air it made it hard to identify many of them but from what she could gather the bird did not seem to have the scent of anyone else in the Inn on him. That means he was either waiting for someone outside or he was solo and for some reason decided to just cling to her.

Vanessa typically favored her privacy but fuck it, little guy seemed friendly enough. Reaching down she would attempt to simply grab the Kenku by the back of his hook and pull him up into the air, lifting him over the table and around to the other side of her where there was an empty seat, putting the lad down and puffing some air from her lips. "Alright so it's your lucky day darlin...don't touch my shit, be good, and i'll share whatever i get to eat with ya, deal?" She mused, giving the Kenku a pat on the head.

The Huntress had come across a few of his kind before today, even knew a couple personally. She was familiar with their struggle to live and thus today she was feeling rather generous. It was obvious why he approached her out of everyone else in here, didn't take a genius to see that the people occupying the inn didn't look like the types who wanted to be bothered yet alone deal with a Kenku of all things.

She lifted her eyes from the bird and examined the Inn once again, her sight drifted from patron to patron who each seemed to be doing their own little thing when suddenly her gaze landed on a tall Orcish woman who had come down from the upstairs. And she seemed to be interested in what was happening over at this particular table considering how long her eyes lingered on The Wolf and The Crow. Vanessa couldn't distinguish which of the two she was focused on. Not that it really mattered, the three of them were probably the only ones who stuck out in the Inn. A Kenku, An Orc, and a Shadar-Kai that was a loooooong way from home. Still, The Wolf was growing restless and hunger was rising within her gut. Closing up her journal and putting her quill and ink to the side Vanessa slid off the chair and made her way towards the front of the bar. Cinder the black cat however kept an eye on the Kenku who remained at the table, clearly watching the bird with a focused gaze.

The Wolf approached the bar, her eyes falling upon the Orc lass who also occupied the space and Vanessa curved her eyes to her, then the elves working the back before leaning on the wooden counter and lifting a hand as if to gesture to them, giving a light whistle to get one of the Bar Maidens attention.

And it worked...just not in the way she had hoped.

The same silver haired woman who had be serving the other patrons when she entered twisted around with a quickness and her eyes fell on Vanessa whom she gave the death glare to. The elf quickly made a B-line for the bar and when she arrived she slammed her hands into the counter and stood her full height which was only a few inches shorter than Vanessa herself. The Elf leaned in, almost nose to nose with The Wolf as she stared into those reflective, crimson lenses.

"Who in the HELL do you think your whistling at!? I don't know what mansion you came from but you wait your turn here like everyone else! We aren't your servants and we sure as hell ain't your dogs either! Now get a drink or go back to your table!" The white haired woman roared ferociously, making Vanessa blink rapidly from behind her glasses. Clearly taken aback by the sudden rage displayed by the elf wench before slowly clenching her jack and giving a wicked grin.

With a single motion Vanessa lifted a hand and placed it upon her chest as if she had been wounded.

"Oh my, so scary! I'm terribly embarrassed!" She wailed as she swung her head around dramatically before shaking her head. "From the bottom of my heart ma'am i apologize. That was rude of me and a hard working woman such as yourself deserves respect. And normally i'd ask you to forgive me but in this case~" She began, suddenly snatching the Barmaid up by the hair and pulling her up over the counter with an impressive display of physical domination as Vanessa bared her pearly white fangs at the girl. "I'm gonna have to ask YOU to apologize. I don't know who the fuck your yelling at like that but it sure as fuck ain't me. Now listen here sweetie pie, your gonna straighten up your FUCKING attitude, take your flat ass back to the kitchen and your gonna bring our table a nice...lovely bowel of that stew ya got cookin. We clear? We crystal? We transparent?" She hissed with a venom that shook the barmaid cold as she rapidly began to nod and try to pull away from The Wolfs firm grip. Clearly intimidated and caught off guard from Vanessas apparent apologetic response to a sudden violent one with such speed it would give anyone whiplash.

Vanessa felt her heart sink again, almost instantly regretting what she had done as her grip loosened on the Barmaids hair and she sighed deeply.

"Damn, alright look. I've had a really long couple of days." She explained, bringing her hand down from her hair and taking the elfs hand within her own, holding it tenderly as she began to have a heart to heart. "Been hunting for weeks, no luck with it. Sirus Military has been breathing down everyones necks, its hot and humid. I even witnessed a murder, imagine that. I'm just tired and really, really not in the mood to be yelled at like i'm a child ok? So here~" She reached into her pocket and pulled out a small coin purse. Opening it up and showing about thirteen gold pieces within it...no silver, no copper, only gold. Putting the coin into the barmaids hand and closing her fist around it. "Take this, as a token of my appreciation for what you do. And an apology for being so rude...but if ya could bring that stew like i asked i'd be really grateful. About three or four bowls will do, also i'd like a room for the night. Oh, and if you come at me with that bullshit again i'm gonna smack you back to your bloody ancestors~" She told the elf girl clearly and with a cheerful bemusement before patting her hand and letting her go, the woman sliding off the counter and back onto the other side as she swallowed the lump in her throat, looking at the coin in her hand and giving a quick nod, clearly still in shock from having that backfire in her face and turning around and heading back into the kitchen to round up the girls.

"Four bowls of stew and some wine, lets go!" She demanded, making Vanessa shake her head and scrunch her eyebrows together before looking over at the Orc woman beside her.

Vanessa gestured towards the girls in the kitchen and shrugged innocently. "I uh...don't normally do stuff like this i swear. Long day, hungry, tired, bloody cold. You know the struggle right darlin?" She asked, trying to be friendly as she nudged the womans arm and mouthed a kiss to her. "Yeah you know the struggle. Care to join us? Your over here standing around like a bloody loner and yer makin me nervous, smile a bit why don't ya?" Vanessa teased, turning back to where her table was and making her way back over as her hips swung back and forth almost hypnotically. Many eyes were on her after that heated display and while most of them put up with the Bar Maidens harshness they were kinda surprised that she just folded so easily. Others were just staring at the raven haired womans ass, was rare to get such a view considering the bar maids wore large, loose dresses and nothing quite as 'form fitting' as The Wolfs noble attire. And what a view it was~

Vanessa quickly took her seat beside Kenku again and brushed some of those dark bangs from her vision and adjusted her glasses. Cinder stared at her and spoke aloud this time.

"Dear wolf, What happened to laying low?" The Feline accused, making Vanessa make a face and suck in through her teeth.

"Alright look, it wasn't my fault all right she came at me first. Self defense, i'm not gonna let her talk to me like i'm some bitch." She remarked with a wave of her hand.

"What you did looked pretty bitchy to me, my wolf." Cinder countered. Making Vanessa roll her eyes.

"And you look like a pussy so there's that as well~" She quipped with a scoff, making Cinder flick her tail in annoyance.

Oh what a night this was turning out to be.

Epiphany
Probably George
Blitzer
Xio
Blaire Wisteria

 

[Probably George]

Being picked up was always nice. It seemed Dink's planned had worked. Now to just wait for his free food to come by and gorge himself out. "Alright so it's your lucky day darlin...don't touch my shit, be good, and i'll share whatever i get to eat with ya, deal?" Dink quickly nodded to her offer/threat. Just follow her orders and tonight would be easy. Maybe he could convince her to let him bum a room with her tonight. It's been over a week since he's slept in an actual bed. Since his venture started, Dink has been sleeping in a small sleeping bag that occupied a majority of his sack. It wasn't terrible; Dink has slept in worse conditions.

While waiting for hi- their food, Dink quickly got bored. He started slapping his hands against the table and swung his legs from the bench. All he's had to eat today was the breakfast with the other travelers and some berries he found on his way here. A warm, prepped meal sounded amazing about now.

Dink watched the older woman intently. When she got out of her spot, Dink tried to follow her up, but quickly stopped as he felt the cat's gaze on him. He slowly got himself back in the seat and waited patiently. The cat's own stare was giving him bad vibes. Being attack by a Tabaxi before, Dink didn't trust cats. Just to be safe, Dink gripped onto one of the daggers on his side.

While waiting on the cat's owner to return, he heard a couple screaming. Dink quickly turned to see Vanessa and the wench screaming at each other. The woman was truly terrifying. Maybe sharing a room with her would be a be terrible idea. But as their fight came to an end, Dink noticed the fortune she gave away to the bar maid. She must be loaded! You know what, never mind. Dink could nab a pretty penny from the woman while she slept.

The woman came back to the table. With each step, Dink felt more and more anxious of her. He was conflicted. While her and the cat were conversing, Dink occupied himself with some parlor tricks. After messing around with some lights, he started forming said lights into animals. When it turned into a cat, Dink quickly smacked at it. That's when Dink heard what he thought was the woman's name. He pointed to her and asked "Bitch?" in the tone of the cat.
Ryse

 

[Epiphany]

The noble woman's decision to let the Kenku park it at the table surprised her. Far more surprising was the encounter at the bar.

With a simple whistle, the pale woman received more scorn than Vrutha herself typically received. Clearly, the elf didn't fear her, which didn't make a great deal of sense in the orc's estimation. While the noble seemed to travel alone, no one with clothes and gear like that survived on their own without being lethal in their own right. Not in Sirius. Not with the bandits and worse dangers on its roads. Not wearing that outfit.

Vrutha couldn't say she didn't look either. Humans were curvier than orcs, and this woman was curvier than most humans. Then the noble had to go and expose fangs and an enticing display of force. It'd been a while since she'd met anyone who ticked the right boxes but so far the noble had a lot going for her. Not that a woman like that, of that station, had any interest in an orc.

Or did she? The noble's innocent shrug and turn of conversation brought an answering smile to Vrutha's face. The nudge and blown kiss widened the smile, exposing surprisingly polished tusks. "Most humans don't like it when I smile," the orc admitted, sliding off the bar stool at Vanessa's offer. "But yes, I do know the struggle." Her words had a surprising lack of accent.

Accepting the noble's invitation to the table, Vrutha stepped across the inn floor and took a chair next to the Kenku, across from the noble woman. "I enjoyed your handling of dinner," the orc commented, after listening to Vanessa and her cat banter back and forth. "Display your dominance. Then bring on the charm. The threat at the end might have undid some of the charm, though. Either way, it was brave."

Vrutha glanced back at the bar before returning her gaze to the noble, her Kenku and her cat. She smirked and said, "After all, they have every opportunity to spit in your food now."

Clearing her throat, the orc brushed her hair back and put her palms on the table. "I'm Vrutha. Call me Ruth."

 

[Blaire Wisteria]

With a sigh of relief, Breebi Berrybeam approached what appeared to be sunlight shining through a crack in a wall up ahead of her. She had been deep underground for the past two days investigating some rumors of a sunken city lost to time. What she happened to find was less of a city and more so a single temple, but it sure wasn't easy to find. There were so many twists and turn in naturally formed cave systems that she admittedly got lost more than a few times. But now it appeared that she had finally found her way out of that mess.

The Gnomish woman squeezed her way through the small crack in a cliff face and back into the open air. Using her arm to shield her eyes from the bright sunlight while they adjusted to being back outside. Taking her pack off her back, she slumped up against the cliff wall and started rummaging through it. She didn't happen across any secret advanced technology like she had hoped, but she did find a pair of stone tablets she could get translated somewhere, so that was neat. Once she was sure she had all of her belongings, she hopped to her feet and slung her pack back on and headed off into the wilderness. It was a few hours of trekking before the sun started to dip down below the horizon. She was going to need to find a nice place to camp out it seemed. There was no chance an inn would be randomly placed out here in the middle of nowhere.

Well, what do you know! As she came to the top of a hill, she spied an old mill next to a river a little ways below her. "Well that's convenient!" She thought allowed as she slowly descended the hill. The Old Mill Inn, it had a nice ring to it. With all her Gnomish might, she pushed open the wooden door and entered the common room of the inn. Much to Breebi's surprise, the place was quite busy, you know, for being in the middle of nowhere. Scanning the room, it appeared that most of the patrons were what you'd expect. All except for one peculiar table of misfits towards the center. There was what looked to be an eccentric human in fancy clothing, a big orc lady, and a cute little Kenku! Well, relatively little... They were still a good foot taller than her.

"Those guys look like they'd be fun to talk to." She said to herself as she approached their table. "Howdy! I hope this seat isn't taken." She says to the group as she quite literally climbs onto the chair next to Vanessa and takes a seat. "My name's Breebi Berrybeam, it's nice to meet you all!"

 

[Blitzer]

Varimal glided down the road not caring to hide his slightly blue face. It didn't matter. Very little around here could hurt him and even so, the military knew better than to mess with him at this juncture, he'd done his part in helping them, they had a solid ally. They had a give take relationship nothing more nothing less. For now at least, one never did know the future, he'd be just as likely to stab one of them in the back if the price was right. As the wind wills it so he went. What some might not notice with him was the fact that his cloak and a fine cloak of course, but his cloak whipped around him in a slow dance not moving with the wind with with his walk. If one looked more carefully, one might recognize the glide of his feet and the constant circle of air.

Nonetheless, he made his way down the dirty streets absolutely free of dust, a trivial use of magic but an effective and powerful one. Not a hint of sweat marred his face as he slipped into the tavern. He was just in time to see a Shadar-Kai let down a barmaid. His hand instantly slid over to his double barrelled pistol but thought better of drawing without context. Nevertheless, Varimal's eyes remained watching her carefully ignoring her over sexualized saunter instead watching where no one usually would. Where her hands and eyes were and went just in case. He didn't want trouble tonight... Once, he was sure her intentions for the moment were not dangerous, he made his way to an empty table, still on high alert. Even as he cased everyone in the tavern, his face slid back into his usual seeming non-caring. Which honestly he didn't. If there was a fight that didn't disturb his stay here or any dangerous individuals, he would be perfectly satisfied. The price of travelling was the whole need to spend a lot of money and ear that money some how. Usually it was blood.

Tonight however the blood was on the air. Those rough houses in the back, that Shadar-Kai, that half-Orc, they reeked of it. Well what was Varimal to say? He wasn't the cleanest in here from blood tonight.

 

[Ryse]

Bright crimson eyes would stare down towards her feline companion as the Black Cat stared menacingly in return. Despite the two being bonded to one another they tended to treat each other in such a way that made others think they could have been siblings, especially when the two got into arguments or bantered in public. Vicious insults and inside jokes being tossed back and forth between the two as if they had known each other their whole lives...which, in a way they kind of did. Vanessa and Cinder had been inseparable since she was a child and the two of them had always been similar in age. Either way, the last thing she wanted to do was continue their trash talking in front of the guest who formed at the table, adjusting her gaze back to the Orcish lass to took a seat across from her and mentioned the handling of dinner which made Vanessa roll her eyes and groan as she lowered her head and practically dropped her face into her forearms which were folded on the table.

"Ugg, that wasn't really supposed to happen i kind of just felt provoked...was kind of a reflex, i'm so embarrassed~" She mused, slowly pulling her hands together and burying her face into them before rubbing her eyes. "And i swear to the All Father if i smell saliva in my food i'm gonna riot~" She growled lowly, leaning back into her chair and slowly pulling her hands down her face, stretching her cheeks a bit. "But hiiiiiiiii Ruth, glad i made a bloody impression i suppose. People call me The Black Wolf. Not my name, its what the humans like to refer to me as. And my enemies...but we're friends yes? And my friends call me V, or Vivi if ya wanna be 'really' friendly." She mused with a teasing grin as she hooked an arm over the back of her chair and began to tap the surface of the table when suddenly a small Gnome took the seat beside her and greeted the group. Vanessa immediately looked down at the Gnome, back to the Kenku, up at the Orc, and continued to shift her gaze to the three in a repeated, rapid cycle before shaking her head. "Whaaaat, the fuck is happening right now?" She asked bluntly, lifting a hand and gesturing to everyone at the table. "I mean seriously, what are the bloody odds of this exact group sitting at this exact table, at this exact moment in this exact location? Like, what, did the fuckin stars decide to align today?" She rambled, tapping the table and looking around the Inn as if searching for something. "Ladies quick, lets see how many freaks we can gather at one table." She joked, her eyes searching before finding the dark robed individual who had strolled in moments before while Vanessa was still at the bar. Radiating a brooding edginess that Vanessa immediately picked up on and decided to chime in on. "Hey, brooding loner in the corner! I bet you have an incredibly depressing backstory and lovely personality! Why don't ya come take a seat over here, we're seeing how many weirdos we can gather at a single table." Vanessa called out whimsically, kicking out one of the extra chairs and gesturing to it. "C'mon Mysterio, no one wants to be eating and drinking alone." She mused, returning her gaze back to the Gnome and lowering her hand. "Also, sup. I'm V, thats Ruth...this is...eh...Bird Person." She gestured to everyone else at the table before gesturing to the Gnome to give the girl a high five...

As high as one could get with a Gnome anyway.


Epiphany
Probably George
Blitzer
Xio
Blaire Wisteria

 

[Probably George]

All the new faces brought a smile to Dink. Maybe a new group of adventurers? It's been a while since Dink has had a good raid. But first, he had to make a good impression. He cawed a couple times to get their attention before making the illusion of diamonds filling his hands. As quick as they appeared, Dink dropped them on the table. As each one hit the table, they disappeared.

When a halfing came by and introduced herself, Dink imitated her. "My name's Breebi!" But his cheerful manner seemed to have gone past V as she seemed stuck in a bit of frustration. When he heard V refer to him as bird, Dink quickly corrected her with a sharp "Dink!" Usually, it took a while for people to pick on the fact that it was his name. There was even a human who just gave him the name of his old bird. Dink didn't understand the sincerity of the sentiment, and just felt annoyed by it at the time.

 

[Blitzer]

Varimal sighed when the woman called him over. Well, he wasn't exactly a brooding loner, but of all the nights when he didn't really care about being that charming, this had to happen. Well it didn't matter, he could flirt some. She wasn't his type thankfully. He softly chuckled to himself as his frown melted off his face and all of a sudden his cloak was just whipping around him in a more relaxed manner, giving him some breathing room. "The name is Varimal, to Miss V whatever that stands for."

Varimal nodded at the other occupants of the table and bent his knees to look the gnome and bird thing in the eye and nodded. "Hello Breebi. Pleasure to meet you," He winked and turned to the bird, "And hello Dink. Its been along time since I've seen one of your kind."

Swiftly he pulled a little bauble out of his pocket, a metal disc with the shape of the wind carved into it and threw it to Dink. "Here ya go, I think you'd like this. Now, that I've introduced myself, what brings all of you to this tavern out here in the middle of nowhere in these troubled bloody times."

His cloak waved lazily around his face, and for a moment he wondered if he should try to calm down the woman, V. Just breeze into places and back out that was his motto.

 

[Epiphany]

Ryse
Vivi's reaction to Vrutha's pointing out the risks of her outburst amused the orc immensely. For such a volatile, expressive woman, V had a sense of humor. And she had an inviting way about her that an Orc wasn't used to seeing. The clothes, the money suggested a high social station. Normally the kind of person well out of the reach of an Orc woman orphaned from her own people. Still, V had made the 'really' friendly offer and Vrutha could play along with that.

"Then Vivi it is," Vrutha said and leaned back in her chair and smiled slightly, her tusks glinting in the firelight.

When the noble turned her attention back to the table and began calling them all freaks, Vrutha immediately stiffened up. Was the human trying to provoke her? But then she looked again and chuckled. It was an unusual mix. Virtually everyone at the table came from a people who didn't mix much outside of their own kind.

Blaire Wisteria
In the spirit of being friendly, Vrutha leaned out of her chair and reached out a hand in a plain invitation to shake to the gnome. "Breebi? I'm Vrutha. Call me V." Then, with a playful wink at Vivi, she corrected herself by saying, "Actually just call me Ruth."

Probably George
The Kenki's entry into the conversation was confusing. Vrutha's brows drew close as she tried to discern why the bird imitated the gnome. But then she shrugged. Maybe the species wasn't especially intelligent. Certainly her own kind had that reputation. Or perhaps he was just...different. Still, it cost her nothing to be cordial with the diminutive being, no more than it did to be polite to the gnome. When you were an Orc on your own, you didn't make enemies casually. Not without cause.

Besides, how seriously could she take someone named 'Dink'? Even if he did have some kind of magical illusionary abilities...

Blitzer
Varimal's arrival drew her attention away from the two child-sized members of the table. She gave him a look of frank appraisal before shifting slightly in her chair to make a little more room for his arrival. That he omitted her from his greetings and introductions didn't escape her notice but Vrutha wasn't especially surprised. She'd had differential treatment from many, many peoples of various races over the years.

Instead, the Orc was the first to respond to his question. "It's on the way to Demaci. But you'll have to ask the others for their reasons."

 

[Ryse]

What a lovely night this was becoming. Despite the obvious negative circumstances that inevitably led to each and every one of the individuals gathered to take shelter at this single location it seems the group that had gathered had a relatively positive air about them. Although, within the back of The Wolfs mind she knew that making attachments like this were dangerous to her and those who dared to even bother breathing the same air as the cursed Huntress. She knew how this tended to end, she had been here before not so long ago. But still, despite the danger it was practically a primal instinct to seek out any form of closeness or companionship among others. Undoubtedly it was her instinct to be apart of a pack that kept unconsciously driving her to be so open and social with complete strangers at any given moment as if she were actively trying to make friends.

So as brief as this little game would be, Vanessa opted to enjoy it. Moments like these were so rare in her life and she'd be a fool not to take advantage of the fleeting moments such as these. And as the Orcish lass referred to her as 'Vivi' an audible gasp would escape the pale womans lips as she lifted a hand and placed it over her generous bosom, just over her heart and imitated a feinting motion as if she had been struck right through her beating heart. A grin spreading across her grim colored lips as she mouthed a playful kiss at the lass and chuckled impishly. Vanessa, despite the way she dressed and carried herself was almost whimsically friendly to anyone and everyone, making her appear almost unnaturally cheerful at first glance. One might not even guess the bloodthirsty savagery lurking beneath that grinning exterior, only ever catching a glimpse of her cruelty in brief moments of outburst when she felt offended or directly provoked like how Ruth witnessed earlier with the barmaid.

Still, she pushed these thoughts aside, shifting her crystal blue eyes back and forth among those who gathered at the table from behind those reflective, crimson lenses. Some might wonder why someone would wear such accessories when indoors during the night but Vanessa had reason to keep her peepers concealed. At least for now while all the burning candles surrounded the Inn keeping everything well lit. She averted her gaze down to the Kenku who called himself 'Dink' and then proceeded to do a little magic trick which made Vanessa chuckle with amusement. Lifting her hands and giving a little round of applause for the bird as she gave an approving nod. "Oh how lovely darling, you must be popular with the children." She teased, then turning her gaze towards Varimal as he introduced himself, his statement regarding her name merely evoking a shrug from the lady in black. "Can call me Wolf...or Huntress if you'd like. Thats what she calls me~" She mused, gesturing to the black cat who had begun to paw at the little specks of light that Dink had formulated. Vanessa then gasped and snapped her fingers as she shook her head as if she were disappointed in herself. "That reminds me! This little stroke of bad luck right here is my companion Cinder. Cinder be a darling and introduce yourself~" Vanessa encouraged, the black cat glaring back at the raven haired woman and giving a fierce hiss before swiping her claws towards her.

"Why would i when you have done so already dear Wolf?" She cooed back aloud, tossing her nose towards the air and turning her back to Vanessa as she lifted a paw and began to needlessly groom herself. Vanessa rolled her eyes from behind her sunglasses and scoffed. Looking at the others and giving an innocent shrugging gesture with her hands.

"Eh, she's not 'always' that sassy i swear." Vanessa muttered, attempting to make Cinder look like less of a pain than she actually was. Attempting to change the subject when Ruth shared the reason why she had come to the Inn Vanessa lifted a hand and opened her mouth to speak only to end up releasing a long, jaw popping yawn. Those pearly, ivory fangs placed perfectly on her upper and lower rows of teeth on full display as they glinted in the light. "Aw man, getting tired. But uh, i'm came here because the military here likes to harass people they see on the road, tax innocent people who are passing by, and god forbid you look like a foreigner cause then your liable to get thrown into bloody jail for looking 'suspicious'. So i channeled my inner 'nope' and made my way right through the woods until i got here." She explained, rolling her shoulders and exhaling deeply through her nose. "As for WHY i'm here to begin with. The Allfathers have blessed me with a proper hunt, so like i followed the trail which is leading me to Demaci as well." She admitted truthfully, figuring it was obvious at this point that the woman was some kind of hunter given the titles she was given such as 'Huntress' and 'Black Wolf'. Ultimate question was, what kind of prey was she hunting that could be leading her to one of the great major cities of the western hemisphere~

Supposed that would come up at a later date...

Epiphany
Probably George
Blitzer
Blaire Wisteria

 

[Probably George]

As everyone else was in conversation wit each other, Dink blankly looked across them. He wasn't too sure what was going on, but he was excited for the chance of a new group of adventurers. In the meantime, Dink was waiting for his promised food. The anticipation was awful. Dink wanted food, and wanted it now! The demand was answered as the wench came by with the soups. Dink's eyes gleamed as he saw her carrying the plate. He was on the verge of drooling. Once she arrived to the table, Dink grasped in the air towards her, gasping out. The wench finally came to him, putting the soup in front of him. Dink didn't even give it a second before he started diving into the soup.

Dink was always a messy eater, and this wasn't an exception. Soup kept tipping onto the table as well as Dink himself. As quick as Dink started, he finished the meal after picking it up and tipping it down his beak. Just to finish it off, he started licking the bowl clean. After he was done, Dink slammed the bowl onto the table and left out a breath of relief. The soup quickly stuffed his small stomach. Dink decided to take an appropriate nap as soon as the itis set in.

 

[Epiphany]

Ryse
When Vivi blew a kiss in Vrutha's direction, the orc's eyes widened in surprise. Then she smiled and if the expression showed a little tusk, it wasn't the fear-inspiring smile she typically reserved for other races. Occasionally she'd dallied with a human who had a taste for something strong and exotic but never someone as obviously well-dressed and well-off as this noble. But then, much of the room wasn't especially human and Vivi was a traveler, like all of them. Perhaps she felt safe to indulge in impulses she wouldn't otherwise. Especially given the mixed company.

The talking cat added to the woman's air of mystery. Wizards had such familiars, but Vanessa didn't seem much like a student of sorcery. Especially not with those rather admirable fangs. Not human then? Vrutha wasn't especially familiar with other races, having mostly met humans, elves, dwarves and the occasional gnome. Seeing the set of incisors made her a bit wistful for her own kind. But then, orcs lacked that flawless skin or the delightfully pleasing plumpness of humans. Vanessa seemed to have the best of both worlds.

Her report of the road was concerning, though. Vrutha hadn't found much hassle getting here but then she hadn't run into any military patrols either. It seemed this nation was even less friendly than she'd heard. Vanessa clearly had skill in the woods...

"A hunt then?" she spoke up. Leaning forward in her chair, the orc warrior folded her hands together on top of the table. "Sounds like a good story. I suppose it is late but, seeing as we're headed the same way, perhaps you'd share that story tomorrow on the road? Assuming you don't mind the company."

Vrutha leaned back once more, uncertain for once of the other's response. Most avoided her kind. Vanessa didn't seem to mind her but then Vanessa also seemed the independent sort. Which would prevail?

Probably George
The Kenku's reaction to being served food was almost as amusing as actually watching him eat it. Vrutha stared in amazement as the small bird-man bolted the soup in literally record time. When he finished and leaned back for a nap, the orc just shook her head.

 

[Blitzer]

Varimal turned the half orc, not really noticing her... how had he passed over her. Perhaps it was the winds of magic. They did will things he did not understand sometimes. He noted her words and said nothing much He was not one for companions however it seems the winds had guided him to this set of people. The only thing that bothered him was the woman's title, the Huntress. Something tickled the back of his memory; something from his time serving with the military as a guide and... well. Those times. His flightiness drew him to the interesting nature of the little bird, Dink. Strange little creature. Hmm, he should probably focus on the conversation. "I'm so sorry Vrutha, my my, the winds do tend to distract me."
Varimal pursed his lips ever so slightly. "I really do like a good story! Maybe the winds have blown us together to share a true story." He paused and turned to V, " A hunt is always welcome." Through his blue eyes, a for a moment a sheen of horror shown through the casual light.​

Ryse Epiphany