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<blockquote data-quote="Halford" data-source="post: 4548726" data-attributes="member: 64844"><p style="text-align: left"></p> <p style="text-align: left"></p> <p style="text-align: left"></p> <p style="text-align: center"><span style="color: white">Urn Your Pay: Chapter 2:</span></p> <p style="text-align: center"><span style="color: white">Cloudsong</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">The rain trailed off to a light drizzle sometime during the night, and when dawn came, it cast a rosy haze over the sleepy streets of Orussus. The beds at the Red Dragon Inn were clean and comfortable, and the smell of frying meat wafted enticingly through the halls.</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">Erf awakened refreshed, and cheerfully luxuriated in a bed larger than his old burrow. Once dawn kissed the cobbles he opened the window and spent an hour contemplating the wonders of nature – in the form of a swallows nest on a nearby building. He came down to a near empty common room, ate an unhurried breakfast, and exchanged a pleasant - albeit one sided - conversations with several of his fellow guests surreptitiously filling a small sack with leftovers for Fenenn.</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">Gildrim was the next of the party to emerge and made his way over to the gnome, followed by a bleary eyed Cyian.</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">"Mornin', mornin', bricht an' early. Long way tae gang the-day, sae fill yer bellies," the dwarf said briskly, making the most of a final free breakfast courtesy of Joe Smith. Cyian was silent over breakfast, allowing Erf to do the lions share of the talking and letting himself get lost in a veritable tide of excited conversation. Eventually he nervously broached something that had troubled him for a while, finding a brief silence as Erf paused to drink,</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">“Er, Gildrim do I need to buy anything, or?” He trailed off and looked to the dwarf who sighed,</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">“Gie yersel' some iran rat'ns yo'll ne t' fer the road,” Gildrim says looking over the young “warrior's” gear. "Ye'll wanne ranged wepin as well, mah fingers ur too stubby, but yoo're nimble an' keen-eyed. Gie yersel' a wee bow. Ur e'en a sling. If yoo're wantin' a bow, Ah kin lend ye th' coins. We'll be rich enaw suin."</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">Cyian nods gratefully and once the meal concludes follows Gildrim to purchase supplies. Erf declines to accompany them pulling a face at the mention of rations and telling them he needs to look in on Fenenn.</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">Erf bustled over to the stables and found Fenenn sleeping on his back twitching and making a series of small huffing noises. The little gnome sat down beside him and opened the sack of leftovers, the Wolf Hound awakened instantly and after giving the druid a cursory greeting lick dove into the sack. Chuckling to himself Erf set about brushing the big dog's fur into a semblance of neatness, earning a few warning growls as he pulled through knots. Once Fenenn had finished and been rendered respectable the pair went to examine the great stone dragon that gave the Inn its name.</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">"Well pickle my onions Fenenn if that thing couldn't swallow the both of us in a single bitte bite! I wonder how it got here! Now I bet that was a grand adventure, princesses, wizards, and all that. And to think if we'd stayed home we'd just be helping keep the bloomin' pixies in line!"</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">Gildrim and Cyian appeared newly provisioned, Cyian swinging a newly acquired sling, and made for Erf who waved frantically and hurried over to them, with a warier Fenenn following behind. The Wolf hound regarded the newcomers with flattened ears and a cautious sniffing from a distance as he took their scents – less trusting than his optimistic companion.</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">Cyian repositioned his now heavier pack."There's no prin... no time to wait, the sooner there the sooner we can come back and learn how the dragon got here."</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">Erf gave the lad a funny look as he leaped into Fenenn's saddle.</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">"Well of course there aren't any princesses. Not any more. It probably all happened long long ago, every story the kids in Daunton start'd that way. I wonder if another Dragon needs to kiss this one to wake it up? That'd be grand." Cyian could not be sure, but he thought the gnome might just be poking a little fun at him.</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">"Ah'm lookin' forward tae this expedition. Ah dinnae ken <u><a href="http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/1611473/" target="_blank">anythin'</a></u> aboot th' swamps ur Clan Mordren, sae Ah'll be learnin' new things aw th' time. Exactly whit Ah wis sen' awa' frae - Ah mean left mah clanhold tae do." Gildrim said, adjusting the straps on his backpack for travel.</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">Erf grinned and waggled his eyebrows at Cyian.</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">"Well any'ow I suppose there's no time like the now if we want to get there hey? Now don't ye big fellas mind if me 'n Fenenn here range out a bitte wy we're gonna try 'n nad us a few rabbits here 'n there to keep this 'n fed! Might even be able to bring back a few for the group now 'n then to supplement those rations ye all seem so fond of."</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">The Gnome touseled Fenenn's fur as he pulled a face. </span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">"It's nae that Ah dinnae troost ye tae catch a few bauties," Gildrim grumbled, "but Ah dinnae wan' tae tak' chances. An' ye eat whit ye hae tae. Noo, do we tak' th' road ur th' river ur wander across th' wild lands like gomerels?"</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">"Oh not to be worryin' Gildrim, I have enough trouble feedin' this eatin' machine ye can 'ave all the 'ard tack ye can eat! As to our path, river travel costs coin, cross country will slow us down, so looks like the road t' me!" Erf replied cheerfully. Chuckling to himself he winked at Gildrim. He then guided Fenenn over towards Ter-raen, who was just emerging from the Inn, gave the Half-Orc a wave and threw a jaunty salute pointing towards the gates enquiringly. </span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">"Hey big fella I was wonderin' if'n you might want to join us on a bitte hunt now 'n then? Ye look like ye can more than keep up with those big legs, 'n if ye'll pardon me presumption, ye look like ye know yer way about in the wilderness."</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">Ter-raen merely shook his head yawning hugely and blinking the sleep from his eyes. As one the group made for the gate with Erf trotting ahead on Fenenn. Cyian took in the sites one last time falling back. </span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">"Road sounds good, lets go. We can always take to the river another day if we want." He said to Gildrim an undertone of excitement barely audible as he attempted to appear blaize.</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">As Fenenn strode out of the City, Erf took a great breath and let out a contented sigh.</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">"Not that I mind the City ye understand, I just wouldn't want'a live there if ye know what I mean!" He rode merrily along murmuring a tune to himself, making up the words as was his want.</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">"I'll be riding on my dog. He is not a Bullwug!</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">Adventures to be had bad things to kill.</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">Big folks oh they are much fun, always moving on the run!</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">I just like to explore, from the forest to the shore.</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">I'll ride on 'till I need to snore, but a bitte fun I do adore.</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">But really I just like it where give its me some pals 'n open air!"</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">And those of the party with keen hearing learned that Forest Gnomes, or at least Erf, really aren't musically inclined.</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"></p> <p style="text-align: left">OOC: In retrospect I really do not know what I was smoking that day, set to the tune of that song "I'll be driving in my car, it is not a Jaguar." Not my proudest moment.</p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">"Hoo diz he expect tae catch anythin' makin' that awfu' mutterin' aw th' time? Mebbe he's hopin' th' bauties'll drop deid conflummixed reit at his feet..." Gildrim asked the air shaking his head.</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">Ter-raen followed at the back of the party, walking with a slower pace than normal. Hardly a problem for him, it had been quite a while since he had traveled with a group. Inwardly, he was quite pleased to be with his present company. Funny group of people to go on a wild goose chase with. Both the dwarf and gnome were barely understandable and the young man was obviously wet behind the ears and over eager, despite his efforts to conceal the fact. He remained silent, stoic, and amused, guarding the parties rear – just in case.</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">The skies were bright as they rode out of Orussus. By noon, the puddles from the previous evening's storm had dried, leaving a warm, clear day. The eastward road out of Orussus was well traveled, and they pass a number of merchants and farmers, and were passed in turn by couriers, occasional guard patrols, and other travelers whose business they can only guess at. The land was green and gentle, the road wove between rolling hills dotted with stands of pine, and occasional stretches of dense forest. Game was abundant and between them Erf and Ter-raen were able to keep the party well fed without resorting to rations.</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">Towards evening, they came to a side road heading south, signposted for Lathirn. Consulting the map they took this road finding it to be much smaller and quieter; the wagon ruts were shallower and softer, and occasional weeds grew in their recesses. In fact, they seemed to have the road entirely to themselves: by the time the party began to tire they have yet to come across any other travelers on this lonely road. </span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">Picking a likely spot, they made camp. The evening was clear and pleasantly cool. Erf watched the sunset with an expression of simple contentment upon his face, as his fingers skillfully kneaded behind Fenenn's ears. On the small fire he had proudly set up a total of four rabbits, two and a half of which Fenenn will gulp down after Erf had his fill from one, and another to supplement the group's rations. He also had a couple of pheasant eggs cooking in the hot ashes to one side of the fire and and a half dozen wild onions doing the same.</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">Whilst not keeping an eye on his dinner Fenenn rolled around in the grass his tongue lolling out comically as he stalked bugs.</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">"What a great day! I got to talk to a girl whose dad killed a troll! And then me and Fenenn saw a badger mom 'n her babies and she chased us off when she thought me slobberin' friend here was eye'in the bitte ones the wrong way. I hope its this interesting everyday adventurin'!"</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">Erf said to the group as he deftly skinned the last of the rabbits and prepared its spit.</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">As he sat by the fire Ter-raen thought. Much walking we did, but feet are feeling much better now. Good food is important. With some ale it'd be better. Can't make out what dwarf says most of the time. He ate the rabbit, enjoyed the tender gamey meat and informed Erf of as much, "Your rabbit tastes good!"</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">Erf beamed,</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">"Thanks Ter-raen! I see you got quite a haul yourself! Thank Verdante's green thumb nobody has to eat those rations, bleck!"</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">Sensing a kindred spirit, and someone whose proximity would be far more restful than his energetic companion's, Fenenn moved over and lay down next to the Half-Orc. The Wolfhound's moist soulful black eyes fixed on every scrap of meat hopefully.</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">"Yes Ter-raen is right the rabbit is good, though I don't mind the rations, they can be eaten on the go." Cyian said, smiling and throwing some scraps to Fenenn who wagged his tail enthusiastically and wolfed down the proffered scraps. </span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">Erf chuckled, "I don't think I have ever seen him full, he's already had three squirrels today to!"</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">"Well he has put in some miles today with you two roaming about hunting, he's earned it. Actually I was wondering if I could go out hunting with you sometime, I think I'd like to learn a little and give my new sling a go too." Cyian said, looking to Erf as he sat back full and contented.</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">“Sure thing Cyian!” Erf enthused, “Anythin' te help a man from havin' te eat trail rations in 'is future!”</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">Gildrim looked up from setting up his bedroll and grumbled, "Naethin' wrang wi' traiveler's rations; they'll keep jer jaws strang and tell ye if ye hae a bad tuith. But Ah coud fin' mah ain fuid, if Ah haed time enaw, ye ken. Ah kin fin' puddock-stuils an' scuttlin' gollachs an' ruits tae chew, an' wirms are awwhaur! Ah'd hae had ain ay them brock bairns tae, if Ah'd bin verra hungert...." His voice trailed off as he settled down in his makeshift canvas bedroll with his backpack as a pillow. "Wak' me up whan it's time tae watch."</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">Erf regards Gildrim skeptically,</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">"Well I'll leave the jaw strengthening to ye Gildrim pal! My jaws just fine as it is. I'm on last watch right? Wake me if ye need anythin'."</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">So saying the little Gnome stretched and snuggled into his bedroll. Fenenn soon moved over and Erf draped an arm around his companion's neck - green skin contrasting with grey fur.</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">Ter-raen watched as both the gnome and the dwarf settle off to sleep. He wondered why spell masters must always slept so much. His weapons were heavy, but he could make do with less sleep. Maybe their spells were heavier, somehow? Maybe he would ask one of them some day. Maybe the young man knew? He glanced over at the Cyian, trying to decide if he should enquire. The night was still relatively young, and he could spare a little time to chat,</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">"Cyian. Why must spell masters sleep so much?"</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">Cyian looked up at the Half-Orc surprised to be addressed, and shrugged, “Don't ask me Ter-raen, maybe they have to concentrate real hard? I used to get quite tired when I had to study. Or maybe the spells use up their energy and make them tired?”</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">The two sat in silence for a while until Ter-raen turned in. The watches passed uneventfully, the next day dawned, overcast but not immediately threatening rain, and they resumed their journey southward. The forests here were thicker and closer to the road, and the land began to flatten. They passed one guard patrol and one large merchant party, both headed the other way.</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">A couple of uneventful days pass. The party get to know one another talking on the road and around the camp fire – most of them get to know more than they could have imagined about Erf, Erf's Grandmother, Fenenn's ancestry, why trees are fascinating, and various topics of interest to the gnome- and usually only the gnome. They camped under the stars, and generally enjoyed the pleasant camaraderie of the road.</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">On the third day Cyian trudged along with the party taking in the scenery. “How long will it take to get to this village anyway?” He asked, “I didn't know adventuring would be like this, all this walking. You never hear about this in the stories or balla...," he trips catching himself before falling over. "Well how far is it?"</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">"Then ye main nae be listenin' tae th' reit tales, lad; ye want tae hear th' story ay Thogrim Vonthur, wha socht fur his lost wife Olbrynn Glanisi in th' tunnels an' caverns ay th' underdeeps fur aichty twalmonths withoot a rest afair he foond her, an' wore oot aicht pairs ay adamantine shaes in th' seekin'." Gildrim responded with a far eyed look in his eyes,</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">"But tae answer yer quaisten - nae mair than a week fur us."</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">Cyian watched Gildrim expectantly for a while, but finally realized the dwarf was not going to elaborate much to his disappointment. Finally he summons up the courage to ask, “Will you tell me, us, the story Gildrim?”</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">"Och, laddie, firs' ye'll need tae be learnin' Dwairrrven sae Ah kin dae it justice," Gildrim snorted, waving dismissively.</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">The party cross a narrow stone bridge across a wide, but sluggish river and then the road widens, though it remained deserted. The forests thinned, replaced by flat, grassy land with banks of dense brush. The air was still for the most part, but when the breeze came from the southit carried the scent of stagnant water. Hunting remained still easy for the group's experienced wanderers, and when the time came to camp for the night again, no one had to eat trail rations – to Erf's relief. </span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white"></span></p> <p style="text-align: left"><span style="color: white">The next days blurred into a routine. Erf, Fenenn and Ter-raen continued to enjoy success in their hunting efforts, and the weather held, clear and cool, with clouds drifting reluctantly across the sky like adventurers leaving a tavern. On the fourth day, shortly after noon...</span></p> <p style="text-align: left"></p> <p style="text-align: left">OOC: I will post the rest of this chapter tomorrow.</p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="Halford, post: 4548726, member: 64844"] [LEFT] [/LEFT] [CENTER][COLOR=white]Urn Your Pay: Chapter 2:[/COLOR] [COLOR=white]Cloudsong[/COLOR][/CENTER] [LEFT][COLOR=white] [/COLOR] [COLOR=white]The rain trailed off to a light drizzle sometime during the night, and when dawn came, it cast a rosy haze over the sleepy streets of Orussus. The beds at the Red Dragon Inn were clean and comfortable, and the smell of frying meat wafted enticingly through the halls.[/COLOR] [COLOR=white] [/COLOR] [COLOR=white]Erf awakened refreshed, and cheerfully luxuriated in a bed larger than his old burrow. Once dawn kissed the cobbles he opened the window and spent an hour contemplating the wonders of nature – in the form of a swallows nest on a nearby building. He came down to a near empty common room, ate an unhurried breakfast, and exchanged a pleasant - albeit one sided - conversations with several of his fellow guests surreptitiously filling a small sack with leftovers for Fenenn.[/COLOR] [COLOR=white] [/COLOR] [COLOR=white]Gildrim was the next of the party to emerge and made his way over to the gnome, followed by a bleary eyed Cyian.[/COLOR] [COLOR=white] [/COLOR] [COLOR=white]"Mornin', mornin', bricht an' early. Long way tae gang the-day, sae fill yer bellies," the dwarf said briskly, making the most of a final free breakfast courtesy of Joe Smith. Cyian was silent over breakfast, allowing Erf to do the lions share of the talking and letting himself get lost in a veritable tide of excited conversation. Eventually he nervously broached something that had troubled him for a while, finding a brief silence as Erf paused to drink,[/COLOR] [COLOR=white] [/COLOR] [COLOR=white]“Er, Gildrim do I need to buy anything, or?” He trailed off and looked to the dwarf who sighed,[/COLOR] [COLOR=white] [/COLOR] [COLOR=white]“Gie yersel' some iran rat'ns yo'll ne t' fer the road,” Gildrim says looking over the young “warrior's” gear. "Ye'll wanne ranged wepin as well, mah fingers ur too stubby, but yoo're nimble an' keen-eyed. Gie yersel' a wee bow. Ur e'en a sling. If yoo're wantin' a bow, Ah kin lend ye th' coins. We'll be rich enaw suin."[/COLOR] [COLOR=white] [/COLOR] [COLOR=white]Cyian nods gratefully and once the meal concludes follows Gildrim to purchase supplies. Erf declines to accompany them pulling a face at the mention of rations and telling them he needs to look in on Fenenn.[/COLOR] [COLOR=white]Erf bustled over to the stables and found Fenenn sleeping on his back twitching and making a series of small huffing noises. The little gnome sat down beside him and opened the sack of leftovers, the Wolf Hound awakened instantly and after giving the druid a cursory greeting lick dove into the sack. Chuckling to himself Erf set about brushing the big dog's fur into a semblance of neatness, earning a few warning growls as he pulled through knots. Once Fenenn had finished and been rendered respectable the pair went to examine the great stone dragon that gave the Inn its name. "Well pickle my onions Fenenn if that thing couldn't swallow the both of us in a single bitte bite! I wonder how it got here! Now I bet that was a grand adventure, princesses, wizards, and all that. And to think if we'd stayed home we'd just be helping keep the bloomin' pixies in line!"[/COLOR] [COLOR=white] [/COLOR] [COLOR=white]Gildrim and Cyian appeared newly provisioned, Cyian swinging a newly acquired sling, and made for Erf who waved frantically and hurried over to them, with a warier Fenenn following behind. The Wolf hound regarded the newcomers with flattened ears and a cautious sniffing from a distance as he took their scents – less trusting than his optimistic companion.[/COLOR] [COLOR=white] [/COLOR] [COLOR=white]Cyian repositioned his now heavier pack."There's no prin... no time to wait, the sooner there the sooner we can come back and learn how the dragon got here."[/COLOR] [COLOR=white] [/COLOR] [COLOR=white]Erf gave the lad a funny look as he leaped into Fenenn's saddle. "Well of course there aren't any princesses. Not any more. It probably all happened long long ago, every story the kids in Daunton start'd that way. I wonder if another Dragon needs to kiss this one to wake it up? That'd be grand." Cyian could not be sure, but he thought the gnome might just be poking a little fun at him.[/COLOR] [COLOR=white] [/COLOR] [COLOR=white]"Ah'm lookin' forward tae this expedition. Ah dinnae ken [U][URL="http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/1611473/"]anythin'[/URL][/U] aboot th' swamps ur Clan Mordren, sae Ah'll be learnin' new things aw th' time. Exactly whit Ah wis sen' awa' frae - Ah mean left mah clanhold tae do." Gildrim said, adjusting the straps on his backpack for travel.[/COLOR] [COLOR=white] [/COLOR] [COLOR=white]Erf grinned and waggled his eyebrows at Cyian. "Well any'ow I suppose there's no time like the now if we want to get there hey? Now don't ye big fellas mind if me 'n Fenenn here range out a bitte wy we're gonna try 'n nad us a few rabbits here 'n there to keep this 'n fed! Might even be able to bring back a few for the group now 'n then to supplement those rations ye all seem so fond of." The Gnome touseled Fenenn's fur as he pulled a face. [/COLOR] [COLOR=white] [/COLOR] [COLOR=white]"It's nae that Ah dinnae troost ye tae catch a few bauties," Gildrim grumbled, "but Ah dinnae wan' tae tak' chances. An' ye eat whit ye hae tae. Noo, do we tak' th' road ur th' river ur wander across th' wild lands like gomerels?"[/COLOR] [COLOR=white] [/COLOR] [COLOR=white]"Oh not to be worryin' Gildrim, I have enough trouble feedin' this eatin' machine ye can 'ave all the 'ard tack ye can eat! As to our path, river travel costs coin, cross country will slow us down, so looks like the road t' me!" Erf replied cheerfully. Chuckling to himself he winked at Gildrim. He then guided Fenenn over towards Ter-raen, who was just emerging from the Inn, gave the Half-Orc a wave and threw a jaunty salute pointing towards the gates enquiringly. "Hey big fella I was wonderin' if'n you might want to join us on a bitte hunt now 'n then? Ye look like ye can more than keep up with those big legs, 'n if ye'll pardon me presumption, ye look like ye know yer way about in the wilderness."[/COLOR] [COLOR=white] [/COLOR] [COLOR=white]Ter-raen merely shook his head yawning hugely and blinking the sleep from his eyes. As one the group made for the gate with Erf trotting ahead on Fenenn. Cyian took in the sites one last time falling back. [/COLOR] [COLOR=white] [/COLOR] [COLOR=white]"Road sounds good, lets go. We can always take to the river another day if we want." He said to Gildrim an undertone of excitement barely audible as he attempted to appear blaize.[/COLOR] [COLOR=white] [/COLOR] [COLOR=white]As Fenenn strode out of the City, Erf took a great breath and let out a contented sigh. "Not that I mind the City ye understand, I just wouldn't want'a live there if ye know what I mean!" He rode merrily along murmuring a tune to himself, making up the words as was his want.[/COLOR] [COLOR=white] [/COLOR] [COLOR=white]"I'll be riding on my dog. He is not a Bullwug! Adventures to be had bad things to kill. Big folks oh they are much fun, always moving on the run! I just like to explore, from the forest to the shore. I'll ride on 'till I need to snore, but a bitte fun I do adore. But really I just like it where give its me some pals 'n open air!"[/COLOR] [COLOR=white] [/COLOR] [COLOR=white]And those of the party with keen hearing learned that Forest Gnomes, or at least Erf, really aren't musically inclined.[/COLOR] OOC: In retrospect I really do not know what I was smoking that day, set to the tune of that song "I'll be driving in my car, it is not a Jaguar." Not my proudest moment. [COLOR=white] [/COLOR] [COLOR=white]"Hoo diz he expect tae catch anythin' makin' that awfu' mutterin' aw th' time? Mebbe he's hopin' th' bauties'll drop deid conflummixed reit at his feet..." Gildrim asked the air shaking his head.[/COLOR] [COLOR=white] [/COLOR] [COLOR=white]Ter-raen followed at the back of the party, walking with a slower pace than normal. Hardly a problem for him, it had been quite a while since he had traveled with a group. Inwardly, he was quite pleased to be with his present company. Funny group of people to go on a wild goose chase with. Both the dwarf and gnome were barely understandable and the young man was obviously wet behind the ears and over eager, despite his efforts to conceal the fact. He remained silent, stoic, and amused, guarding the parties rear – just in case.[/COLOR] [COLOR=white] [/COLOR] [COLOR=white]The skies were bright as they rode out of Orussus. By noon, the puddles from the previous evening's storm had dried, leaving a warm, clear day. The eastward road out of Orussus was well traveled, and they pass a number of merchants and farmers, and were passed in turn by couriers, occasional guard patrols, and other travelers whose business they can only guess at. The land was green and gentle, the road wove between rolling hills dotted with stands of pine, and occasional stretches of dense forest. Game was abundant and between them Erf and Ter-raen were able to keep the party well fed without resorting to rations. Towards evening, they came to a side road heading south, signposted for Lathirn. Consulting the map they took this road finding it to be much smaller and quieter; the wagon ruts were shallower and softer, and occasional weeds grew in their recesses. In fact, they seemed to have the road entirely to themselves: by the time the party began to tire they have yet to come across any other travelers on this lonely road. [/COLOR] [COLOR=white] [/COLOR] [COLOR=white]Picking a likely spot, they made camp. The evening was clear and pleasantly cool. Erf watched the sunset with an expression of simple contentment upon his face, as his fingers skillfully kneaded behind Fenenn's ears. On the small fire he had proudly set up a total of four rabbits, two and a half of which Fenenn will gulp down after Erf had his fill from one, and another to supplement the group's rations. He also had a couple of pheasant eggs cooking in the hot ashes to one side of the fire and and a half dozen wild onions doing the same. Whilst not keeping an eye on his dinner Fenenn rolled around in the grass his tongue lolling out comically as he stalked bugs. "What a great day! I got to talk to a girl whose dad killed a troll! And then me and Fenenn saw a badger mom 'n her babies and she chased us off when she thought me slobberin' friend here was eye'in the bitte ones the wrong way. I hope its this interesting everyday adventurin'!" Erf said to the group as he deftly skinned the last of the rabbits and prepared its spit.[/COLOR] [COLOR=white] [/COLOR] [COLOR=white]As he sat by the fire Ter-raen thought. Much walking we did, but feet are feeling much better now. Good food is important. With some ale it'd be better. Can't make out what dwarf says most of the time. He ate the rabbit, enjoyed the tender gamey meat and informed Erf of as much, "Your rabbit tastes good!"[/COLOR] [COLOR=white] [/COLOR] [COLOR=white]Erf beamed, "Thanks Ter-raen! I see you got quite a haul yourself! Thank Verdante's green thumb nobody has to eat those rations, bleck!" Sensing a kindred spirit, and someone whose proximity would be far more restful than his energetic companion's, Fenenn moved over and lay down next to the Half-Orc. The Wolfhound's moist soulful black eyes fixed on every scrap of meat hopefully.[/COLOR] [COLOR=white] [/COLOR] [COLOR=white]"Yes Ter-raen is right the rabbit is good, though I don't mind the rations, they can be eaten on the go." Cyian said, smiling and throwing some scraps to Fenenn who wagged his tail enthusiastically and wolfed down the proffered scraps. [/COLOR] [COLOR=white] [/COLOR] [COLOR=white]Erf chuckled, "I don't think I have ever seen him full, he's already had three squirrels today to!"[/COLOR] [COLOR=white] [/COLOR] [COLOR=white]"Well he has put in some miles today with you two roaming about hunting, he's earned it. Actually I was wondering if I could go out hunting with you sometime, I think I'd like to learn a little and give my new sling a go too." Cyian said, looking to Erf as he sat back full and contented.[/COLOR] [COLOR=white] [/COLOR] [COLOR=white]“Sure thing Cyian!” Erf enthused, “Anythin' te help a man from havin' te eat trail rations in 'is future!”[/COLOR] [COLOR=white] [/COLOR] [COLOR=white]Gildrim looked up from setting up his bedroll and grumbled, "Naethin' wrang wi' traiveler's rations; they'll keep jer jaws strang and tell ye if ye hae a bad tuith. But Ah coud fin' mah ain fuid, if Ah haed time enaw, ye ken. Ah kin fin' puddock-stuils an' scuttlin' gollachs an' ruits tae chew, an' wirms are awwhaur! Ah'd hae had ain ay them brock bairns tae, if Ah'd bin verra hungert...." His voice trailed off as he settled down in his makeshift canvas bedroll with his backpack as a pillow. "Wak' me up whan it's time tae watch."[/COLOR] [COLOR=white] [/COLOR] [COLOR=white]Erf regards Gildrim skeptically, "Well I'll leave the jaw strengthening to ye Gildrim pal! My jaws just fine as it is. I'm on last watch right? Wake me if ye need anythin'." So saying the little Gnome stretched and snuggled into his bedroll. Fenenn soon moved over and Erf draped an arm around his companion's neck - green skin contrasting with grey fur.[/COLOR] [COLOR=white] [/COLOR] [COLOR=white]Ter-raen watched as both the gnome and the dwarf settle off to sleep. He wondered why spell masters must always slept so much. His weapons were heavy, but he could make do with less sleep. Maybe their spells were heavier, somehow? Maybe he would ask one of them some day. Maybe the young man knew? He glanced over at the Cyian, trying to decide if he should enquire. The night was still relatively young, and he could spare a little time to chat, "Cyian. Why must spell masters sleep so much?"[/COLOR] [COLOR=white] [/COLOR] [COLOR=white]Cyian looked up at the Half-Orc surprised to be addressed, and shrugged, “Don't ask me Ter-raen, maybe they have to concentrate real hard? I used to get quite tired when I had to study. Or maybe the spells use up their energy and make them tired?”[/COLOR] [COLOR=white] [/COLOR] [COLOR=white]The two sat in silence for a while until Ter-raen turned in. The watches passed uneventfully, the next day dawned, overcast but not immediately threatening rain, and they resumed their journey southward. The forests here were thicker and closer to the road, and the land began to flatten. They passed one guard patrol and one large merchant party, both headed the other way.[/COLOR] [COLOR=white] [/COLOR] [COLOR=white]A couple of uneventful days pass. The party get to know one another talking on the road and around the camp fire – most of them get to know more than they could have imagined about Erf, Erf's Grandmother, Fenenn's ancestry, why trees are fascinating, and various topics of interest to the gnome- and usually only the gnome. They camped under the stars, and generally enjoyed the pleasant camaraderie of the road.[/COLOR] [COLOR=white] [/COLOR] [COLOR=white]On the third day Cyian trudged along with the party taking in the scenery. “How long will it take to get to this village anyway?” He asked, “I didn't know adventuring would be like this, all this walking. You never hear about this in the stories or balla...," he trips catching himself before falling over. "Well how far is it?"[/COLOR] [COLOR=white] [/COLOR] [COLOR=white]"Then ye main nae be listenin' tae th' reit tales, lad; ye want tae hear th' story ay Thogrim Vonthur, wha socht fur his lost wife Olbrynn Glanisi in th' tunnels an' caverns ay th' underdeeps fur aichty twalmonths withoot a rest afair he foond her, an' wore oot aicht pairs ay adamantine shaes in th' seekin'." Gildrim responded with a far eyed look in his eyes, "But tae answer yer quaisten - nae mair than a week fur us."[/COLOR] [COLOR=white] [/COLOR] [COLOR=white]Cyian watched Gildrim expectantly for a while, but finally realized the dwarf was not going to elaborate much to his disappointment. Finally he summons up the courage to ask, “Will you tell me, us, the story Gildrim?”[/COLOR] [COLOR=white] [/COLOR] [COLOR=white]"Och, laddie, firs' ye'll need tae be learnin' Dwairrrven sae Ah kin dae it justice," Gildrim snorted, waving dismissively.[/COLOR] [COLOR=white] [/COLOR] [COLOR=white]The party cross a narrow stone bridge across a wide, but sluggish river and then the road widens, though it remained deserted. The forests thinned, replaced by flat, grassy land with banks of dense brush. The air was still for the most part, but when the breeze came from the southit carried the scent of stagnant water. Hunting remained still easy for the group's experienced wanderers, and when the time came to camp for the night again, no one had to eat trail rations – to Erf's relief. The next days blurred into a routine. Erf, Fenenn and Ter-raen continued to enjoy success in their hunting efforts, and the weather held, clear and cool, with clouds drifting reluctantly across the sky like adventurers leaving a tavern. On the fourth day, shortly after noon...[/COLOR] OOC: I will post the rest of this chapter tomorrow.[/LEFT] [/QUOTE]
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