Celestial Mambo - by Arislyn on 11:38 16 Apr 2003
The night is cool, clear and comfortable, a fine evening for strolling down the boulevards or sitting out on a veranda for a glass of chilled wine. In the distance, one can hear the soothing sound of the sea as it caresses the beach, shuffling sand and crabs before it as it rolls gently along the shoreline. Looking out across the grand city of Mulmaster, one can easily see the spires and walls of the nobles lit by candles and torches along a piece of land known as the Towers of the Blade. As the whole city is built upon the slopes of a mountain range, the quality of the architecture slides with that natural grade. The further down one goes from the Towers of the Blade, the more common and, eventually, ramshackle the domiciles become. The only exception to that rule is the dock area, where the decks and pylons of the harbor jut out into the Moonsea. Here, an interesting mixture of warehouses, businesses and homes creates an air of constant bustle and variety, a seeming haven to travelers and foreigners within this natural fort of a city. For, a natural fort it is, as the mountain range hugs Mulmaster, protecting it to the south while the great Moonsea itself guards it's northern boundaries.
However, today, we are not concerned so much with Mulmaster itself, but with four people who would make this their home. Or, at least, a stopping point along the journey of their lives...
--------------------------------------------
Cameron leans across the ship's railing and watches as the harbor grows nearer. All around him, sailors heave to, hauling on ropes and raising or lowering tattered sails as they try to coax their broken vessel into port. He sighs and looks longingly at shore. He had thought that the tour would be a wonderful idea, a chance to travel and see the world while enjoying the finer points of seafaring travel. And, it had been a fine ride, for the most part. The other passengers, all rich and elite, had been great company, all eager to share songs and wine and women...oh, some of the women. Cameron smiles despite the ache in his bones. Lovely, Verita. Ah, she had been most gracious company for the majority of the trip. He glances over his shoulder at the hold where those passengers who survived the storm are now recovering, Verita among them. Thankfully, only a few had been lost to Umberlee's fury, mostly sailors, for the captain had had the sense to force the passengers below deck so they would be safe and, more importantly, out of the way. Cameron's own aches are from the stress of the days after when the captain called all able-bodied men and women to aid in getting the ship back into form so that they could limp to the nearest harbor.
Once again, he looks out over the water at Mulmaster, the harbor lit with torches and lanterns. Even at this ungodly hour in the morning, he can faintly hear the sounds so common to docks everywhere...men and women talking loudly, their voices carrying on the water, hulls of boats and ships creaking in the shifting waves, music and laughter spilling from taverns.
A passing sailor stops and stands beside Cameron, nodding to himself, "We should be puttin' in in another hour or so, sirrah." The man grins, "Then, there be warm beds and hard ale fer us all. An' we be deserving it after the bashin th' Bitch gave us, I say." Despite what he says, the sailor reflexively pulls a copper coin from his pocket, kisses it and tosses it over the railing, a small sacrifice to Umberlee.
--------
Shadow curses her luck as her mark rounds a corner, walking into full view of a retinue of Mulmaster's guards, a couple of Cloaks among them. She sighs and thrusts her hands into her pockets, deciding to give up on this group as they stop to actually speak with the heavily armed and armored men. From the bits of conversation she picks up from where she hides in a darkened alley, it seems the mark she had picked is actually married to one of the guard's sisters.
Wiggling her fingers about in her pockets, her dexterous fingers easily pick out the few coins she has left. Only a few copper and some silver remain. Heaving a resigned sigh, she turns around and begins to make her way through the city to the docks. At this hour, that is where one will find the most action and it has already been a long night. Truly, she doesn't feel like taking up the challenge of actually trying to break into a house just yet. She winces at the thought, wondering when Jester will approach her again with the offer. She's been well-established here among the footpads of Mulmaster for some time, but has always worked as a cutpurse, trusting to her speed and charm to get her what she needs to survive. However, here lately, the leader of one of the more prominent gangs has taken an interest in Shadow's talents. He seems to think she would do well as a burglar should she turn her mind to it. However, Shadow is still undecided as to whether she wishes to take that risk. After all, a cutpurse is fairly small-time and well beneath the local guild's notice. Should she start breaking into people's homes...well.....there's all kinds of potential for stepping on the wrong toes. And she is fairly certain that Jester's gang is not operating with the guild's blessings. It's a wonder how they've stayed alive as long as they have.
Still musing, she makes her way through the city.
---------
Lyle stretches and yawns, ready to call it a day or, more correctly, a night. However, his superiors made it quite clear that he was to return with the supplies within a fortnight and with the storm that rolled through a couple of days ago, he is behind schedule. He sways in the wagon seat, the only thing keeping him awake being the uncomfortable pain in his butt caused by the wagon's jarring as it rolls over rocks and limbs.
The Emerald Monastery lies a good 5 day's travel to the south, across the rocky and forbidding terrain that leads up to the mountains surrounding Mulmaster. Lyle can't help but grumble to himself. A fortnight! How completely unreasonable is that? That only gives 4 days leeway to buy the monastery's supplies and to allow for anything that may go wrong….like a storm that washes away part of the trail and forces a single, terribly annoyed monk to make a horrendous detour. He shakes his head, knowing that he should be well used to it by now. Master Yong is a demanding teacher and even more demanding of his students that come to him forcibly. Lyle has no doubt that this is a test of some kind. Surely, the monastery is not so low on supplies as all that...
Just as the halfling's eyes are about to drift shut of their own accord, Lyle sees the glorious walls of the South Fort, that final stopping point before crossing into Mulmaster proper. Finally! he thinks. Grinning, he flicks the reins, urging his weary oxen to move faster. A roof and warm food is not far away.
----------------------------------------------
As the three make their way across or towards the city, they all notice a single thing: Above their heads, streaking across the night sky, is a shooting star. However, this star is far brighter than any ever seen before, nigh lighting the evening as if it were day. All three can hear a faint 'whooooosh' as it passes overhead and then disappears as all shooting stars do....
The night is cool, clear and comfortable, a fine evening for strolling down the boulevards or sitting out on a veranda for a glass of chilled wine. In the distance, one can hear the soothing sound of the sea as it caresses the beach, shuffling sand and crabs before it as it rolls gently along the shoreline. Looking out across the grand city of Mulmaster, one can easily see the spires and walls of the nobles lit by candles and torches along a piece of land known as the Towers of the Blade. As the whole city is built upon the slopes of a mountain range, the quality of the architecture slides with that natural grade. The further down one goes from the Towers of the Blade, the more common and, eventually, ramshackle the domiciles become. The only exception to that rule is the dock area, where the decks and pylons of the harbor jut out into the Moonsea. Here, an interesting mixture of warehouses, businesses and homes creates an air of constant bustle and variety, a seeming haven to travelers and foreigners within this natural fort of a city. For, a natural fort it is, as the mountain range hugs Mulmaster, protecting it to the south while the great Moonsea itself guards it's northern boundaries.
However, today, we are not concerned so much with Mulmaster itself, but with four people who would make this their home. Or, at least, a stopping point along the journey of their lives...
--------------------------------------------
Cameron leans across the ship's railing and watches as the harbor grows nearer. All around him, sailors heave to, hauling on ropes and raising or lowering tattered sails as they try to coax their broken vessel into port. He sighs and looks longingly at shore. He had thought that the tour would be a wonderful idea, a chance to travel and see the world while enjoying the finer points of seafaring travel. And, it had been a fine ride, for the most part. The other passengers, all rich and elite, had been great company, all eager to share songs and wine and women...oh, some of the women. Cameron smiles despite the ache in his bones. Lovely, Verita. Ah, she had been most gracious company for the majority of the trip. He glances over his shoulder at the hold where those passengers who survived the storm are now recovering, Verita among them. Thankfully, only a few had been lost to Umberlee's fury, mostly sailors, for the captain had had the sense to force the passengers below deck so they would be safe and, more importantly, out of the way. Cameron's own aches are from the stress of the days after when the captain called all able-bodied men and women to aid in getting the ship back into form so that they could limp to the nearest harbor.
Once again, he looks out over the water at Mulmaster, the harbor lit with torches and lanterns. Even at this ungodly hour in the morning, he can faintly hear the sounds so common to docks everywhere...men and women talking loudly, their voices carrying on the water, hulls of boats and ships creaking in the shifting waves, music and laughter spilling from taverns.
A passing sailor stops and stands beside Cameron, nodding to himself, "We should be puttin' in in another hour or so, sirrah." The man grins, "Then, there be warm beds and hard ale fer us all. An' we be deserving it after the bashin th' Bitch gave us, I say." Despite what he says, the sailor reflexively pulls a copper coin from his pocket, kisses it and tosses it over the railing, a small sacrifice to Umberlee.
--------
Shadow curses her luck as her mark rounds a corner, walking into full view of a retinue of Mulmaster's guards, a couple of Cloaks among them. She sighs and thrusts her hands into her pockets, deciding to give up on this group as they stop to actually speak with the heavily armed and armored men. From the bits of conversation she picks up from where she hides in a darkened alley, it seems the mark she had picked is actually married to one of the guard's sisters.
Wiggling her fingers about in her pockets, her dexterous fingers easily pick out the few coins she has left. Only a few copper and some silver remain. Heaving a resigned sigh, she turns around and begins to make her way through the city to the docks. At this hour, that is where one will find the most action and it has already been a long night. Truly, she doesn't feel like taking up the challenge of actually trying to break into a house just yet. She winces at the thought, wondering when Jester will approach her again with the offer. She's been well-established here among the footpads of Mulmaster for some time, but has always worked as a cutpurse, trusting to her speed and charm to get her what she needs to survive. However, here lately, the leader of one of the more prominent gangs has taken an interest in Shadow's talents. He seems to think she would do well as a burglar should she turn her mind to it. However, Shadow is still undecided as to whether she wishes to take that risk. After all, a cutpurse is fairly small-time and well beneath the local guild's notice. Should she start breaking into people's homes...well.....there's all kinds of potential for stepping on the wrong toes. And she is fairly certain that Jester's gang is not operating with the guild's blessings. It's a wonder how they've stayed alive as long as they have.
Still musing, she makes her way through the city.
---------
Lyle stretches and yawns, ready to call it a day or, more correctly, a night. However, his superiors made it quite clear that he was to return with the supplies within a fortnight and with the storm that rolled through a couple of days ago, he is behind schedule. He sways in the wagon seat, the only thing keeping him awake being the uncomfortable pain in his butt caused by the wagon's jarring as it rolls over rocks and limbs.
The Emerald Monastery lies a good 5 day's travel to the south, across the rocky and forbidding terrain that leads up to the mountains surrounding Mulmaster. Lyle can't help but grumble to himself. A fortnight! How completely unreasonable is that? That only gives 4 days leeway to buy the monastery's supplies and to allow for anything that may go wrong….like a storm that washes away part of the trail and forces a single, terribly annoyed monk to make a horrendous detour. He shakes his head, knowing that he should be well used to it by now. Master Yong is a demanding teacher and even more demanding of his students that come to him forcibly. Lyle has no doubt that this is a test of some kind. Surely, the monastery is not so low on supplies as all that...
Just as the halfling's eyes are about to drift shut of their own accord, Lyle sees the glorious walls of the South Fort, that final stopping point before crossing into Mulmaster proper. Finally! he thinks. Grinning, he flicks the reins, urging his weary oxen to move faster. A roof and warm food is not far away.
----------------------------------------------
As the three make their way across or towards the city, they all notice a single thing: Above their heads, streaking across the night sky, is a shooting star. However, this star is far brighter than any ever seen before, nigh lighting the evening as if it were day. All three can hear a faint 'whooooosh' as it passes overhead and then disappears as all shooting stars do....
Celestial Mambo - by NoonChild on 10:46 17 Apr 2003
At the docks, Shadow can hardly contain her glee. A new ship has arrived and its passengers are rich. very rich. And with all the noise and confusion going on it shouldn't be too difficult to liberate a few choice purses. A slightly green looking woman in a torn but sumptuous dress is wandering away from the main group. It is the work of seconds to catch her when she faints, and simultaneously release the catch on her necklace. Its made of Lapis, finely crafted - thinks Shadow as she slips her booty in to one of the many hidden pockets she posesses. A man from the ship comes over to assist in reviving his sickly travelling companion. One more item and it'll be time to leave - thinks Shadow. However most of the new arrivals have already claimed their luggage and are moving off in carriages toward more secure and luxurious mountain accomodation. She can see a purse, not too full, but dangling freely from a mans belt. One quick slash and he'll not even know it's gone. But he's moving off, she'll have to run to catch him, and that seems too conspicuous. Sod it, it's been a slow day. Shadow runs quickly through the dispersing sailors, she's just a few feet away....almost there, she takes out her knife....suddenly the man turns to look straight at her. Shocked she just stands there not moving, she is a little too close to be just another docklander. Does this manknow what she was about to do, or is he just looking at his new surroundings?
At the docks, Shadow can hardly contain her glee. A new ship has arrived and its passengers are rich. very rich. And with all the noise and confusion going on it shouldn't be too difficult to liberate a few choice purses. A slightly green looking woman in a torn but sumptuous dress is wandering away from the main group. It is the work of seconds to catch her when she faints, and simultaneously release the catch on her necklace. Its made of Lapis, finely crafted - thinks Shadow as she slips her booty in to one of the many hidden pockets she posesses. A man from the ship comes over to assist in reviving his sickly travelling companion. One more item and it'll be time to leave - thinks Shadow. However most of the new arrivals have already claimed their luggage and are moving off in carriages toward more secure and luxurious mountain accomodation. She can see a purse, not too full, but dangling freely from a mans belt. One quick slash and he'll not even know it's gone. But he's moving off, she'll have to run to catch him, and that seems too conspicuous. Sod it, it's been a slow day. Shadow runs quickly through the dispersing sailors, she's just a few feet away....almost there, she takes out her knife....suddenly the man turns to look straight at her. Shocked she just stands there not moving, she is a little too close to be just another docklander. Does this manknow what she was about to do, or is he just looking at his new surroundings?
Celestial Mambo - by Arislyn on 11:14 17 Apr 2003
Cameron strolls down the gangplank to the docks with a grin of relief. Regardless of whether the rumors he's heard about Mulmaster are true, he's just thrilled to be on solid land again. As he takes his first steps upon terra firma, it is quite evident that he has been to sea for awhile. His gate is rolling, fluid and feels terribly odd to him, now. It will be a couple of days before he gets his land legs back, he is certain.
He shakes his head as he sees a few of his fellow passengers depart looking much the worse for wear. Most of them, he sees, are already looking for carriage houses to get transport to the finer side of town. Looking up, he has no trouble spotting where that would be. High upon a ridge above the docks, lights shimmering on the granite walls and spires of the noble's quarters. Humming to himself, he sets off along the dock, eager to find a place to be.
Just as he makes it a few feet down the docks, he hears the almost silent padding of feet behind him. Curious, he turns to find himself facing a young woman....
-----
OOC: NoonChild and Luke, I'll let you describe your characters.
Cameron strolls down the gangplank to the docks with a grin of relief. Regardless of whether the rumors he's heard about Mulmaster are true, he's just thrilled to be on solid land again. As he takes his first steps upon terra firma, it is quite evident that he has been to sea for awhile. His gate is rolling, fluid and feels terribly odd to him, now. It will be a couple of days before he gets his land legs back, he is certain.
He shakes his head as he sees a few of his fellow passengers depart looking much the worse for wear. Most of them, he sees, are already looking for carriage houses to get transport to the finer side of town. Looking up, he has no trouble spotting where that would be. High upon a ridge above the docks, lights shimmering on the granite walls and spires of the noble's quarters. Humming to himself, he sets off along the dock, eager to find a place to be.
Just as he makes it a few feet down the docks, he hears the almost silent padding of feet behind him. Curious, he turns to find himself facing a young woman....
-----
OOC: NoonChild and Luke, I'll let you describe your characters.
Celestial Mambo - by EvilLuke on 13:03 17 Apr 2003
Cameron looks down at the woman, "Ah, you snuck up on me. That is considered rather impolite where I'm from."
Cameron is a young man in his early 20's. He's six feet tall, but rather slim and looks as if hard work was never part of his day to day life. His clothes look prosperous, but not as expensive as some of the other passengers. He's wearing a pair of maroon pants, a deep brown shirt, and a large bright red pointed cap with a feather stuck in one side. His hair falls to the middle of his back and is completely white. His skin is tanned by time in the sun. He's wearing a backpack and what seem to be two whips on his hips, a flute is holstered next to one of the whips. He's carrying another pair of sacks, seemingly his possessions.
He looks the woman over and furrows his brow before inquiring, "Are you a street urchin? Would you like to make some money? I could use help carrying my things."
Cameron looks down at the woman, "Ah, you snuck up on me. That is considered rather impolite where I'm from."
Cameron is a young man in his early 20's. He's six feet tall, but rather slim and looks as if hard work was never part of his day to day life. His clothes look prosperous, but not as expensive as some of the other passengers. He's wearing a pair of maroon pants, a deep brown shirt, and a large bright red pointed cap with a feather stuck in one side. His hair falls to the middle of his back and is completely white. His skin is tanned by time in the sun. He's wearing a backpack and what seem to be two whips on his hips, a flute is holstered next to one of the whips. He's carrying another pair of sacks, seemingly his possessions.
He looks the woman over and furrows his brow before inquiring, "Are you a street urchin? Would you like to make some money? I could use help carrying my things."
Celestial Mambo - by NoonChild on 17:50 17 Apr 2003
Shadow thinks on her feet. Throwing back the hood of her cowl she replies "Actually I'm here to recommend accommodation, for travellers who like it simple but comfortable. If you are interested I can take you there and carry your bags. How about it?" Shadow smiles urchinlike up at the white haired traveller, hoping beyond all hopes that he believes her story.
Shadow thinks on her feet. Throwing back the hood of her cowl she replies "Actually I'm here to recommend accommodation, for travellers who like it simple but comfortable. If you are interested I can take you there and carry your bags. How about it?" Shadow smiles urchinlike up at the white haired traveller, hoping beyond all hopes that he believes her story.
Celestial Mambo - by EvilLuke on 00:36 18 Apr 2003
The red-hatted man cocks a white eyebrow, "Do I look like I want simple but comfortable? No thanks, I far prefer complex and likely to pay well for a good tale or song. If you know anywhere like that you may get some coppers for your trouble."
He looks around the docks, "Isn't it a little unsafe for a girl to be all alone in a place like this?" He seems genuinely confused.
Meanwhile he's thinking, Street urchin, my hat! She was walking way too soft for honest purposes. Oh, well, I need someone to carry my things, the Lady of Pleasure knows my back isn't up to the task.
He sighs, "Look just take the bags, okay?" He holds them out to her, "We can find a place on the way uphill. I've had a harder than expected trip and I haven't had anything worth drinking or eating, much less any companions to spend the time with worth mentioning in quite a while."
The red-hatted man cocks a white eyebrow, "Do I look like I want simple but comfortable? No thanks, I far prefer complex and likely to pay well for a good tale or song. If you know anywhere like that you may get some coppers for your trouble."
He looks around the docks, "Isn't it a little unsafe for a girl to be all alone in a place like this?" He seems genuinely confused.
Meanwhile he's thinking, Street urchin, my hat! She was walking way too soft for honest purposes. Oh, well, I need someone to carry my things, the Lady of Pleasure knows my back isn't up to the task.
He sighs, "Look just take the bags, okay?" He holds them out to her, "We can find a place on the way uphill. I've had a harder than expected trip and I haven't had anything worth drinking or eating, much less any companions to spend the time with worth mentioning in quite a while."
Celestial Mambo - by NoonChild on 12:09 18 Apr 2003
"Great," thinks Shadow "now I'm stuck with this guy, and only the promise of a few coppers for the pleasure!" Not many of the Inns she knows will pay for a bard's song. Money is too preciously needed for purchasing Mead.
Hefting her new associate's bags on to her shoulders, Shadow wonderes if maybe she could lose him in some of the alleyways nearby. Then she could make of with his property, whatever it might be.
"Do you know any Orc songs? They are about the only ones round here who will pay you, but only if you can chart their entire mythology through song. They love that nostalgic rubbish. Grog's is the nearest Orc bar...if you want to take your chances." Inwardly Shadow giggled. Grog's was one of the most violent establshments she knew, this putz would never survive it, and again she herself could then relinquish him of his belongings. Either way she'd make the most of it.
"Great," thinks Shadow "now I'm stuck with this guy, and only the promise of a few coppers for the pleasure!" Not many of the Inns she knows will pay for a bard's song. Money is too preciously needed for purchasing Mead.
Hefting her new associate's bags on to her shoulders, Shadow wonderes if maybe she could lose him in some of the alleyways nearby. Then she could make of with his property, whatever it might be.
"Do you know any Orc songs? They are about the only ones round here who will pay you, but only if you can chart their entire mythology through song. They love that nostalgic rubbish. Grog's is the nearest Orc bar...if you want to take your chances." Inwardly Shadow giggled. Grog's was one of the most violent establshments she knew, this putz would never survive it, and again she herself could then relinquish him of his belongings. Either way she'd make the most of it.
Celestial Mambo - by Arislyn on 13:36 18 Apr 2003
Meanwhile, back at the South Fort....
Another half hour rolls past uneventfully as Lyle rumbles towards the South Fort, his wagon creaking and groaning in protest. The fort itself is an impressive structure of impassive, hard granite. It stands like a forboding giant before the city gates, ready to deny any plunder of Mulmaster's riches. Dark walls tower above the road and, looking up, Lyle can easily see the outline of archers walking their length. Approaching the iron portcullis, Lyle is stopped by a wearing guard who asks his business in Mulmaster. The hin quickly tells the guard that he is there merely to buy supplies for the monastery and the guard has no trouble seeing that his wagon is quite empty, thus posing no threat of bringing illegal goods or people into the city. Thus, it is simply a matter of listening to the guardsman drone through a rather lengthy list of laws and regulations for visitors to the grand city of Mulmaster before he is escorted through the fort and let in.
Lyle sighs and looks about as he trundles along the city streets which, at this hour, are mostly empty. However, he passes patrols on a fairly regular basis. These are groups of darkly armored and heavily armed men who eye the lone hin but do not stop him. Having never been to Mulmaster before, he wonders at exactly where he should go. Lyle considers stopping to ask one of the guard but they seem none too friendly. However, as he crosses a large boulevard that runs through the approximate center of the city, he spots a few carriages headed towards him. From the looks of it, it seems that they are headed up the hill. Turning, he easily spots what is apparently the good side of town, a second inner wall sectioning off large mansions and spires from the rest of the city. Looking back down the street, he sees that other people are walking along, not fortunate enough to have been able to catch a carriage, apparently. However, despite the fact that they appear to be tired and bedraggled, their clothing seems to be quite fine. These are no poor and weary pilgrims, it seems. Judging by the lay of the land, he assumes that they are coming from the docks.
Shrugging to himself, Lyle thinks, Must be a ship late coming in.
--------------
Blood Street. That is the name of the district where our dear Shadow doth plan upon leading the man in red. And, it has come by the name quite honestly. The streets there have been bathed in the blood of many a human or elf or individuals of any other race, for that matter, who would dare take on the half-orc community that holds firm sway here.
You see, the half-orcs who live here are the very ones that give all half-orcs a bad name. Years ago, a single, brutally charismatic half-orc by the name of Garlok One-Thumb sought to rally a force to his side to take on the Thayvians who had captured his family and sold them into slavery. During his campaign, he sought out those half-orcs who felt stronger ties to their orcish blood than to their human. Those who would give over to their human blood were marked as weak and cowardly, as unfit to wield the true power and fury that belongs to orc-kind. Surprisingly, Garlock managed to amass quite an army and set forth upon his mission. Unfortunately, it failed. What was left of his forces limped back to Mulmaster, the closest city to their fray.
Those who were of Garlock's band settled here. In staying, they formed a "tribe" of their own, claiming a few houses along one street. Years passed and families grew. However, each of these families maintained their ideals of orcish superiority even though they lived in a thriving, human community. This was no deterant to them. Rather, they held so strongly to their orcish heritage that many of them adopted orcish custom and attitude completely, eschewing their human blood entirely.
This is not to say that all of the half-orcs who live on Blood Street are raving, primitive heathens with no sense of self-control or honor. It is merely that most people do not fully understand orc custom and, thus, tend to offend them a lot. Offending an orc usually results in a fight...and bloodshed.
Meanwhile, back at the South Fort....
Another half hour rolls past uneventfully as Lyle rumbles towards the South Fort, his wagon creaking and groaning in protest. The fort itself is an impressive structure of impassive, hard granite. It stands like a forboding giant before the city gates, ready to deny any plunder of Mulmaster's riches. Dark walls tower above the road and, looking up, Lyle can easily see the outline of archers walking their length. Approaching the iron portcullis, Lyle is stopped by a wearing guard who asks his business in Mulmaster. The hin quickly tells the guard that he is there merely to buy supplies for the monastery and the guard has no trouble seeing that his wagon is quite empty, thus posing no threat of bringing illegal goods or people into the city. Thus, it is simply a matter of listening to the guardsman drone through a rather lengthy list of laws and regulations for visitors to the grand city of Mulmaster before he is escorted through the fort and let in.
Lyle sighs and looks about as he trundles along the city streets which, at this hour, are mostly empty. However, he passes patrols on a fairly regular basis. These are groups of darkly armored and heavily armed men who eye the lone hin but do not stop him. Having never been to Mulmaster before, he wonders at exactly where he should go. Lyle considers stopping to ask one of the guard but they seem none too friendly. However, as he crosses a large boulevard that runs through the approximate center of the city, he spots a few carriages headed towards him. From the looks of it, it seems that they are headed up the hill. Turning, he easily spots what is apparently the good side of town, a second inner wall sectioning off large mansions and spires from the rest of the city. Looking back down the street, he sees that other people are walking along, not fortunate enough to have been able to catch a carriage, apparently. However, despite the fact that they appear to be tired and bedraggled, their clothing seems to be quite fine. These are no poor and weary pilgrims, it seems. Judging by the lay of the land, he assumes that they are coming from the docks.
Shrugging to himself, Lyle thinks, Must be a ship late coming in.
--------------
Blood Street. That is the name of the district where our dear Shadow doth plan upon leading the man in red. And, it has come by the name quite honestly. The streets there have been bathed in the blood of many a human or elf or individuals of any other race, for that matter, who would dare take on the half-orc community that holds firm sway here.
You see, the half-orcs who live here are the very ones that give all half-orcs a bad name. Years ago, a single, brutally charismatic half-orc by the name of Garlok One-Thumb sought to rally a force to his side to take on the Thayvians who had captured his family and sold them into slavery. During his campaign, he sought out those half-orcs who felt stronger ties to their orcish blood than to their human. Those who would give over to their human blood were marked as weak and cowardly, as unfit to wield the true power and fury that belongs to orc-kind. Surprisingly, Garlock managed to amass quite an army and set forth upon his mission. Unfortunately, it failed. What was left of his forces limped back to Mulmaster, the closest city to their fray.
Those who were of Garlock's band settled here. In staying, they formed a "tribe" of their own, claiming a few houses along one street. Years passed and families grew. However, each of these families maintained their ideals of orcish superiority even though they lived in a thriving, human community. This was no deterant to them. Rather, they held so strongly to their orcish heritage that many of them adopted orcish custom and attitude completely, eschewing their human blood entirely.
This is not to say that all of the half-orcs who live on Blood Street are raving, primitive heathens with no sense of self-control or honor. It is merely that most people do not fully understand orc custom and, thus, tend to offend them a lot. Offending an orc usually results in a fight...and bloodshed.
Celestial Mambo - by EvilLuke on 17:16 18 Apr 2003
"No, I do not know Orcish, however I do know Dwarven and Elven if you know any inns that cater to those two races. If nothing else I'll pay you just to carry my things up to the more prosperous areas of town where a gentleman such as myself can make more money."
He continues walking, thinking for a moment, "By the way, I'm Cameron the Varied, teller of tales and adventurer extraordinaire. I'm also a fair hand at magic if I say so myself. What are you called by?"
"No, I do not know Orcish, however I do know Dwarven and Elven if you know any inns that cater to those two races. If nothing else I'll pay you just to carry my things up to the more prosperous areas of town where a gentleman such as myself can make more money."
He continues walking, thinking for a moment, "By the way, I'm Cameron the Varied, teller of tales and adventurer extraordinaire. I'm also a fair hand at magic if I say so myself. What are you called by?"
Celestial Mambo - by NoonChild on 18:40 18 Apr 2003
"Never mind that," answers Shadow "we are entering Blood Street and if your Orc customs are rusty you'd better keep your head down" She pauses for a second and looks at Cameron "AND take off that hat!" she adds.
They turn left to find themselves in a fairly badly lit street. It's not too shabby, but it is definately not to human tastes. Further down a pewter mug flies out of a doorway followed by two half-orcs locked in combat.
"Never mind that," answers Shadow "we are entering Blood Street and if your Orc customs are rusty you'd better keep your head down" She pauses for a second and looks at Cameron "AND take off that hat!" she adds.
They turn left to find themselves in a fairly badly lit street. It's not too shabby, but it is definately not to human tastes. Further down a pewter mug flies out of a doorway followed by two half-orcs locked in combat.
Celestial Mambo - by EvilLuke on 20:21 18 Apr 2003
"I am NOT taking off my hat."
Cameron does pay more attention to his surroundings however.
"I am NOT taking off my hat."
Cameron does pay more attention to his surroundings however.
Celestial Mambo - by Arislyn on 20:39 18 Apr 2003
Looking down the street, the two can clearly see that at least a couple of the establishments along the way are in full swing. The petwer mug that crashes against a building opposite the window it emerged from is quickly followed by the body of a fully grown, half-orc male who looks to be beaten near to a pulp. He hits the street and rolls until he smacks into a rainbarrel with a resounding crack. The barrel bounces against a wall, teeters for a moment and then tips over, drenching the poor sod in days old, stale water. Hoots and howls echo up and down the street, along with jeers in a harsh, guttural language that can only be orcish. Growling fiercely, the half-orc staggers to his feet, and turns to face the now open doorway of the tavern where several other half-orcs point and laugh. The offended one, growls low in his throat...a dangerous sound....before hurling himself at the party who mocks him.
Looking down the street, the two can clearly see that at least a couple of the establishments along the way are in full swing. The petwer mug that crashes against a building opposite the window it emerged from is quickly followed by the body of a fully grown, half-orc male who looks to be beaten near to a pulp. He hits the street and rolls until he smacks into a rainbarrel with a resounding crack. The barrel bounces against a wall, teeters for a moment and then tips over, drenching the poor sod in days old, stale water. Hoots and howls echo up and down the street, along with jeers in a harsh, guttural language that can only be orcish. Growling fiercely, the half-orc staggers to his feet, and turns to face the now open doorway of the tavern where several other half-orcs point and laugh. The offended one, growls low in his throat...a dangerous sound....before hurling himself at the party who mocks him.
Celestial Mambo - by Rychaerde on 21:19 19 Apr 2003
Pulling out a piece of paper from his pouch, he unfolds it, turning it this way and that till the sketch of the city is oriented to the way he is currently facing. Noting where he is and where the line is drawn, leading to a circle indicating his distination, he proceeds, briefly pondering from where the ship came and that it must have quite a time in that storm.
| Quote (Arislyn @ April 18 2003,12:36) |
| Lyle sighs and looks about as he trundles along the city streets... |
Pulling out a piece of paper from his pouch, he unfolds it, turning it this way and that till the sketch of the city is oriented to the way he is currently facing. Noting where he is and where the line is drawn, leading to a circle indicating his distination, he proceeds, briefly pondering from where the ship came and that it must have quite a time in that storm.
Celestial Mambo - by NoonChild on 15:37 20 Apr 2003
"OK..er Cameron...we've got two choices," Shadow whispers. "We can either take a lengthy detour round this area, or we can try to sneak past this brawl without attracting attention. If your going to insist on that hat I'd recommend the detour, but it'll cost you. I'm not a city tour guide you know."
Shadow is really fed up at this point. Why did she get herself in this situation. She scans the street ahead where orcs are gathering and laughing at their bedraggled colleague. Passing her had through her red hair she lifts her hood back over her head and turns back to face the bard. "Well" she says "what do you want to do?"
"OK..er Cameron...we've got two choices," Shadow whispers. "We can either take a lengthy detour round this area, or we can try to sneak past this brawl without attracting attention. If your going to insist on that hat I'd recommend the detour, but it'll cost you. I'm not a city tour guide you know."
Shadow is really fed up at this point. Why did she get herself in this situation. She scans the street ahead where orcs are gathering and laughing at their bedraggled colleague. Passing her had through her red hair she lifts her hood back over her head and turns back to face the bard. "Well" she says "what do you want to do?"
Celestial Mambo - by Arislyn on 16:28 20 Apr 2003
Looking down at the piece of paper in his hand, Lyle can barely make out the lines and words that mark routes in the dim lantern light from posts along the boulevard. Squinting, he holds the paper a bit closer to his face. There, he can see the name of the shop he's supposed to go to circled about six streets over....The Fruit n' Rope. They are a general store located between the dock district and the marketplace. According to the monastery's quartermaster, they have just about everything that a person could ever require and if they don't have it, well, they can get it. The Emerald Monastery has been doing business with the man who runs the establishment, Dargon, for pert near forever, as far as Lyle knows. However, this is the first time he'll actually be meeting the man in person. In fact, it's his first foray into Mulmaster, ever. He wonders if all the bad rumors he has heard of the city are true.
Shrugging to himself, Lyle decides not to worry about it too much right now. As it stands, he is exhausted, he knows his oxen are dead tired and the shop is most likely closed at this hour. So, the only sensible thing to do is find a bed for the night and worry about shopping tomorrow. His hand drops down to the pouch at his side, resting protectively over it for a moment as he considers his chioces for lodging. A colleague at the monsatery, Kyra, who had made this run numerous times before recommended the Salt Ship, an inn down by the docks. According to Kyra, it is a fine establishment with equal parts good food and entertainment for a reasonable price. However, Kyle also knows that Kyra's idea of "good entertainment" is a bit questionable. She had often made it a point to tell him that "disciplined does not equate to dead." Lyle sighs. If only he had had her as a teacher instead of Master Yong! Another inn that had been recommended by the quartermaster is the Tin Lantern....mostly because it's cheap. The man is a known pinch-copper and not without good reason. The monastery isn't exactly rolling in money.
Lyle looks up, knowing that there are other establishments that he can probably find along the way, should he wish to look. The two that were recommended, however, are clearly marked on the map. All he needs to do, now, is make a decision as to where to go.
Looking down at the piece of paper in his hand, Lyle can barely make out the lines and words that mark routes in the dim lantern light from posts along the boulevard. Squinting, he holds the paper a bit closer to his face. There, he can see the name of the shop he's supposed to go to circled about six streets over....The Fruit n' Rope. They are a general store located between the dock district and the marketplace. According to the monastery's quartermaster, they have just about everything that a person could ever require and if they don't have it, well, they can get it. The Emerald Monastery has been doing business with the man who runs the establishment, Dargon, for pert near forever, as far as Lyle knows. However, this is the first time he'll actually be meeting the man in person. In fact, it's his first foray into Mulmaster, ever. He wonders if all the bad rumors he has heard of the city are true.
Shrugging to himself, Lyle decides not to worry about it too much right now. As it stands, he is exhausted, he knows his oxen are dead tired and the shop is most likely closed at this hour. So, the only sensible thing to do is find a bed for the night and worry about shopping tomorrow. His hand drops down to the pouch at his side, resting protectively over it for a moment as he considers his chioces for lodging. A colleague at the monsatery, Kyra, who had made this run numerous times before recommended the Salt Ship, an inn down by the docks. According to Kyra, it is a fine establishment with equal parts good food and entertainment for a reasonable price. However, Kyle also knows that Kyra's idea of "good entertainment" is a bit questionable. She had often made it a point to tell him that "disciplined does not equate to dead." Lyle sighs. If only he had had her as a teacher instead of Master Yong! Another inn that had been recommended by the quartermaster is the Tin Lantern....mostly because it's cheap. The man is a known pinch-copper and not without good reason. The monastery isn't exactly rolling in money.
Lyle looks up, knowing that there are other establishments that he can probably find along the way, should he wish to look. The two that were recommended, however, are clearly marked on the map. All he needs to do, now, is make a decision as to where to go.
Celestial Mambo - by EvilLuke on 16:46 20 Apr 2003
Cameron cocks an eyebrow, "I see no reason to detour and I do NOT sneak. That is for those of lower caliber and moral fiber. Besides, its just people acting up, if you stop thinking of them as orcs and start thinking of them as people it makes it MUCH easier."
He opens one of the packs that the girl is holding and pulls out eight small bones of various lengths, "I've found that these help calm the more savage peoples. Harkens back to ancestors and such forth."
He speaks a few words and passes his hands over the bones casting a spell on them.
OOC: Fine-Tuning: +2 to perform checks with instrument, no reason to try to activate the bonus to fear saves, so I'll take the bonus to perform instead.
IC:
He then places the bones between his fingers and thumbs and starts shaking them into each other. A tune comes forth. Then he starts to walk past the bar while singing:
"There was a brave orc-kin lad,
His thews as strong as a hart,
He fought for good and for bad,
Philosophy wasn't his art.
"He held off cavalry in Barstock's Pass,
He beat 12 hobgoblins with only a knife,
He then one the heart of a nice human lass,
And months later made her his wife.
"He rose to power amongst orc and man,
Both gave respect to his strength of arms
A full township his to command,
He then went searching for greater charms.
"He lived a full two score of years,
And not a one past his 15th at peace,
He fought well and had no fears,
And he only died in grief.
"His wife past on one summer night,
From sickness no beauty is safe,
Our now older lad could no longer fight,
For he was afraid for his wife's fate.
"So die he did but one month later,
But the story does not end there,
For his wife's soul was lost in Baator,
And for her even this he would dare.
"He sought long and hard, Hells high and low,
He sought for the woman he loved,
He fought demons, devils, and others below,
But not a sign of the woman he loved.
"He fought on despite ache,
He fought on despite pain,
He killed til his axe did break,
Some say he was not sane.
"Once he found the daemonic fiend,
His fury was completely unchecked,
See, he killed the Yugoloth with his teeth,
For all his weapons had been wrecked.
"And so ended the story of that brave orc-kin lad,
A match for him may never live again,
But look upon your heritage and be glad,
Such feats have never been done by mere human men.
He really hopes this is working.
OOC: Perform skill is 4 ranks + 3 CHA bonus +2 masterwork bonus= +9 to roll. I hope this works. Oh, and could you roll and determine the result, Oh, great Dungeon Mistress?
Cameron cocks an eyebrow, "I see no reason to detour and I do NOT sneak. That is for those of lower caliber and moral fiber. Besides, its just people acting up, if you stop thinking of them as orcs and start thinking of them as people it makes it MUCH easier."
He opens one of the packs that the girl is holding and pulls out eight small bones of various lengths, "I've found that these help calm the more savage peoples. Harkens back to ancestors and such forth."
He speaks a few words and passes his hands over the bones casting a spell on them.
OOC: Fine-Tuning: +2 to perform checks with instrument, no reason to try to activate the bonus to fear saves, so I'll take the bonus to perform instead.
IC:
He then places the bones between his fingers and thumbs and starts shaking them into each other. A tune comes forth. Then he starts to walk past the bar while singing:
"There was a brave orc-kin lad,
His thews as strong as a hart,
He fought for good and for bad,
Philosophy wasn't his art.
"He held off cavalry in Barstock's Pass,
He beat 12 hobgoblins with only a knife,
He then one the heart of a nice human lass,
And months later made her his wife.
"He rose to power amongst orc and man,
Both gave respect to his strength of arms
A full township his to command,
He then went searching for greater charms.
"He lived a full two score of years,
And not a one past his 15th at peace,
He fought well and had no fears,
And he only died in grief.
"His wife past on one summer night,
From sickness no beauty is safe,
Our now older lad could no longer fight,
For he was afraid for his wife's fate.
"So die he did but one month later,
But the story does not end there,
For his wife's soul was lost in Baator,
And for her even this he would dare.
"He sought long and hard, Hells high and low,
He sought for the woman he loved,
He fought demons, devils, and others below,
But not a sign of the woman he loved.
"He fought on despite ache,
He fought on despite pain,
He killed til his axe did break,
Some say he was not sane.
"Once he found the daemonic fiend,
His fury was completely unchecked,
See, he killed the Yugoloth with his teeth,
For all his weapons had been wrecked.
"And so ended the story of that brave orc-kin lad,
A match for him may never live again,
But look upon your heritage and be glad,
Such feats have never been done by mere human men.
He really hopes this is working.
OOC: Perform skill is 4 ranks + 3 CHA bonus +2 masterwork bonus= +9 to roll. I hope this works. Oh, and could you roll and determine the result, Oh, great Dungeon Mistress?
Celestial Mambo - by Arislyn on 17:08 20 Apr 2003
The bones set a haunting rhythmn, a perfect accompaniment to the words of valor and praise that fall from Cameron's lips. As he nears the gaggle of half-orcs, the bones rattling in his hands as he sings, one or two stop to turn curiously and look at the brightly clad, pale haired human who is moving into their midst. However, the vast majority of the crowd is still rather intent upon their hapless colleague. Cameron, however, does not give up hope. He is only into the second stanza and it would, of course, take a couple of moments for them to notice his singing over the hullabloo.
Enthusiastically, he moves into the third stanza, his voice booming his tale with vigor and pride. More of the crowd turns to him, and now, others are poking their companions in the ribs and pointing. At the back of the crowd, one of the half-orcs begins to stomp in rhytmn to the song and th sound is quickly picked up by more as they begin to nod in appreciation of such a fine and worthy song. Granted, a few of them look a bit surprised and one even raising his voice, calling out "Who's the red bird that comes among us?" This gathers a few laughs from friends, but there is no hostility displayed as they listen and, amazingly, begin to sing along.
The only one who doesn't seem happy to see the bard, at this point, is the poor fellow who was getting a beating in the first place. However, this is only to be expected. He stands slightly back from the rest of the stomping, singing, ale-sloshing half-orcs and runs a fist under his bloodied nose. He still growls under his breath, watching several of the others through hooded and angry lids.
The bones set a haunting rhythmn, a perfect accompaniment to the words of valor and praise that fall from Cameron's lips. As he nears the gaggle of half-orcs, the bones rattling in his hands as he sings, one or two stop to turn curiously and look at the brightly clad, pale haired human who is moving into their midst. However, the vast majority of the crowd is still rather intent upon their hapless colleague. Cameron, however, does not give up hope. He is only into the second stanza and it would, of course, take a couple of moments for them to notice his singing over the hullabloo.
Enthusiastically, he moves into the third stanza, his voice booming his tale with vigor and pride. More of the crowd turns to him, and now, others are poking their companions in the ribs and pointing. At the back of the crowd, one of the half-orcs begins to stomp in rhytmn to the song and th sound is quickly picked up by more as they begin to nod in appreciation of such a fine and worthy song. Granted, a few of them look a bit surprised and one even raising his voice, calling out "Who's the red bird that comes among us?" This gathers a few laughs from friends, but there is no hostility displayed as they listen and, amazingly, begin to sing along.
The only one who doesn't seem happy to see the bard, at this point, is the poor fellow who was getting a beating in the first place. However, this is only to be expected. He stands slightly back from the rest of the stomping, singing, ale-sloshing half-orcs and runs a fist under his bloodied nose. He still growls under his breath, watching several of the others through hooded and angry lids.
Celestial Mambo - by NoonChild on 09:57 21 Apr 2003
Shadow sidles along next to Cameron with her mouth slightly agape. That bone thing is really working. Maybe this bard is a usefull companion after all? Strangers never recieve this kind of cheer from Orc kind. If it works on Orcs, maybe it could be used to distract other more lucrative audiences. A few enthralling songs here and there and shadow could clean up - they'd never notice their purses or jewels going missing among such revelry. Hehe...a plan is forming.
Shadow sidles along next to Cameron with her mouth slightly agape. That bone thing is really working. Maybe this bard is a usefull companion after all? Strangers never recieve this kind of cheer from Orc kind. If it works on Orcs, maybe it could be used to distract other more lucrative audiences. A few enthralling songs here and there and shadow could clean up - they'd never notice their purses or jewels going missing among such revelry. Hehe...a plan is forming.
Celestial Mambo - by EvilLuke on 13:14 21 Apr 2003
Cameron bows to the crowd sweeping his large hat off of his head and in front of his body, "Thank you, it is always nice to have an appreciative audience, but I really must go. I'll be in town for a few weeks at a so far undecided location. I may return to perform again.
"If that's okay with you of course."
Cameron bows to the crowd sweeping his large hat off of his head and in front of his body, "Thank you, it is always nice to have an appreciative audience, but I really must go. I'll be in town for a few weeks at a so far undecided location. I may return to perform again.
"If that's okay with you of course."