Difference between revisions of "Unti Family/Nerta/A6S2"

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{| class="infobox" style="margin: auto;" border="2" cellpadding="4"
 
{| class="infobox" style="margin: auto;" border="2" cellpadding="4"
 
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| [[File:AgyrTemple.jpg|500px]]
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| [[File:Blackjaw.png|500px]]
 
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}}</center>
 
}}</center>
 
|-
 
|-
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|-
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! Restoration
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[[File:RomanTemple.png|200px]]
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|-
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|-
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|colspan=1 | <center> {{Message2
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|Width=100%
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|Type=Roleplay
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|Sender=Nerta the Weaver
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|Recipients=Everyone in Agyr
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|Content=Dropping a few more sacks of gold in the temple vault, Nerta signals for the rest of the Equities from the bank to drop the rest.
 +
 +
Her Majesty certainly was, generous. The donation was almost enough for the final restoration of this old building.
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 +
The libraries and labs had been refurbished years ago, but coaxing old Masters from exile had been tricky. Many of the alchemists, librarians and of course Augurs had turned up without prompting, but the disciples of Veber Klotz and his Factorium were no where to be seen.
 +
 +
When they'd been lost, few tears were shed, and yet.... man's experiments had been as horrifying as they were effective. In this Age of Shadow such genius had it's potential.
 +
 +
Or so the Old Man tried to convince the perpetually scowling woman.
 +
 +
"I don't care how brilliant the butcher was, he chopped up my people. Just so he could make crude copies."
 +
 +
Arguing with her shadow, the woman steps out into the icy square across from the Eternal Flame only to smirk at the familiar figure walking up the road.
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 +
"Well, well... Still alive thrice-blessed fool?"
 +
|Title=[[Melhed/Foederati|Foederati]]
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}}</center>
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|-
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|-
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|colspan=1 | <center> {{Message2
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|Width=100%
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|Type=Roleplay
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|Sender=Tyler Thrice-Blessed
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|Recipients=Everyone in Agyr
 +
|Content=Tyler wanderers his way down the street admitting all the sites and sounds of this city so far away from his own home. Ever since his encounter with the mysterious wolf he's had an urge to travel to the very end of the continent.  Some force urging his mind and body to make all haste.
 +
 +
Could it be the eternal flame he was sent here for? Perhaps another round of meditation and reflection as he did with the seeping giant.
 +
 +
Little did he know the reason for his arrival was about to call him a fool.
 +
 +
Tyler snapped out of his thoughts  as the sounds of a familiar preistess echos in his ear.
 +
 +
"Aye I'm still alive preistess though to be honest I was almost food for that mighty tree you sent me to.  Seems our paths cross again and once again it seems this was the gods doing.  Cant rightly say why we crossed paths again  perhaps you have some idea.  When you have time perhaps we can talk I have quite the story to share.
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|Title=Adventurer
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}}</center>
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|-
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 +
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|-
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|colspan=1 | <center> {{Message2
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|Width=100%
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|Type=Roleplay
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|Sender=Nerta the Weaver
 +
|Recipients=Everyone in Agyr
 +
|Content="Had some trouble with the wards did you?"
 +
 +
Eying him critically she walks across the square to stand in the shadow of the Eternal Fire.
 +
 +
"Did you get the blessing you sought?"
 +
|Title=[[Melhed/Foederati|Foederati]]
 +
}}</center>
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|-
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|-
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|colspan=1 | <center> {{Message2
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|Width=100%
 +
|Type=Roleplay
 +
|Sender=Tyler Thrice-Blessed
 +
|Recipients=Everyone in Agyr
 +
|Content=Tyler nodded at the preistess  removing the shield from his back and pointing to the image of a hinge. The hinge is unchanged from the last time he showed off his prized possession but whats different is there is now a fercious wolf with it's jaws held open as I'f trying to bite down and crush the hinge between it's jaws. 
 +
 +
"I found this on my shield upon waking up from a nasty fight with  a strange wolf twice my size and made of thick roots. I suspect your wolf god decided to see if I was worthy of living." Tyler summarize the fight with the wolf ( I can repost the old rp if Bob decides he wants to get involved in the rp)
 +
 +
" Since then I have had the urge to head to the far shores agyr. Sometimes I swear I can see the same wolf speaking to me in my dreams urging me on demanding I set out immediately. Probably an overactive imagination I thought. But once again I arrive and find out paths cross and I'm not so sure it's my imagination anymore. Is it unusual to have one of your gods speak to a mortal? Even fulcrum has never tried to speak directly to me  certainly he does not invade my dreams. And the dreams are only getting more intense. Some nights I choose not to sleep rather then risk having another dream.  Im here hoping you'll tell me I'm simply losing my mind. But I doupt my luck will hold in that regard
 +
|Title=Adventurer
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}}</center>
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|-
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 +
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|-
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|colspan=1 | <center> {{Message2
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|Width=100%
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|Type=Roleplay
 +
|Sender=Nerta the Weaver
 +
|Recipients=Everyone in Agyr
 +
|Content="So, you got the attention of the Gods... I'm sorry."
 +
 +
Shadows dance as the woman looks away.
 +
 +
"You're not alone in this. [[Unti Family/Nerta/A1S4|Jacinda]], my... friend was drawn here by the Wolf Lord two years ago. We've been on a fool quest to save the world ever since." Bob, may as well be an avatar of the hunt at this point. [[Unti Family/Nerta/A4S1|Grante]] was personally saved by the Trickster, who also visited Ra of Thalmarkin on the road. I hear they played [[Unti Family/Nerta/A4S4|chess]]..."
 +
 +
Scrubbing her face the woman slips into her practiced scowl.
 +
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"All while I have the attention of the Dark Mistress and her agent, the Old Man."
 +
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The Eternal Fire crackles in the silence.
 +
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"Now that you're here the dreams should fade, for a time. Eventually they will call upon you again, and send you to work on something of significance. In the mean time, some of the Augurs here at the temple can train you on how to interpret prophetic dreams, and sleep despite them."
 +
 +
"I know it's a lot to take in so... if you want to just kill some things: I've been summoned to [[Seven Rivers]], by mundane letter, to help Soren handle some trouble down in the Sick."
 +
 +
​​​​​​​"Welcome to the faith, even if you've not chosen it, it's chosen you."
 +
|Title=[[Melhed/Foederati|Foederati]]
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}}</center>
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|-
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|-
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|colspan=1 | <center> {{Message2
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|Width=100%
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|Type=Roleplay
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|Sender=Tyler Thrice-Blessed
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|Recipients=Everyone in Agyr
 +
|Content=Tyler nodded at the preistess  removing the shield from his back and pointing to the image of a hinge. The hinge is unchanged from the last time he showed off his prized possession but whats different is there is now a fercious wolf with it's jaws held open as I'f trying to bite down and crush the hinge between it's jaws. 
 +
 +
"I found this on my shield upon waking up from a nasty fight with  a strange wolf twice my size and made of thick roots. I suspect your wolf god decided to see if I was worthy of living." Tyler summarize the fight with the wolf ( I can repost the old rp if Bob decides he wants to get involved in the rp)
 +
 +
" Since then I have had the urge to head to the far shores agyr. Sometimes I swear I can see the same wolf speaking to me in my dreams urging me on demanding I set out immediately. Probably an overactive imagination I thought. But once again I arrive and find out paths cross and I'm not so sure it's my imagination anymore. Is it unusual to have one of your gods speak to a mortal? Even fulcrum has never tried to speak directly to me  certainly he does not invade my dreams. And the dreams are only getting more intense. Some nights I choose not to sleep rather then risk having another dream.  Im here hoping you'll tell me I'm simply losing my mind. But I doupt my luck will hold in that regard
 +
|Title=Adventurer
 +
}}</center>
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|-
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|-
 
|-
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That said, I've seen your limp. You probably won't be on the front lines. So if you want to be a Guardian it'll be up to you to decide what that even means. How can you help people? What speaks to you?
 
That said, I've seen your limp. You probably won't be on the front lines. So if you want to be a Guardian it'll be up to you to decide what that even means. How can you help people? What speaks to you?
 
|Title=[[Melhed/Foederati|Foederati]]
 
|Title=[[Melhed/Foederati|Foederati]]
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}}</center>
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|-
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|-
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! Grant Le Monte
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|-
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|-
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|colspan=1 | <center> {{Message2
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|Width=100%
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|Type=Report
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|Sender=Grante Le Monte
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|Recipients=Personal message to Nerta the Weaver
 +
|Content=Priestess,
 +
 +
It is a pleasant surprise to hear from you. It fares quite well, with Heen slowly regaining its population. Though what is slightly worrying is that despite closing down the Daishi temple here, it seems the faith still has a strong foothold here. In terms of needing anything, that would be what comes to mind first.
 +
|Title=Duke of Land's End, Earl of Heen
 +
}}</center>
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|-
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|-
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|colspan=1 | <center> {{Message2
 +
|Width=100%
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|Type=Request
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|Sender=Nerta the Weaver
 +
|Recipients=Personal message to Grante Le Monte
 +
|Content=A dusty desert town eh? What's it like? I'll not be there any time soon since I'm currently in Hopidrii...
 +
|Title=[[Melhed/Foederati|Foederati]]
 +
}}</center>
 +
|-
 +
 +
|-
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|colspan=1 | <center> {{Message2
 +
|Width=100%
 +
|Type=Report
 +
|Sender=Grante Le Monte
 +
|Recipients=Personal message to Nerta the Weaver
 +
|Content=A town for now, but soon it will be the small city that lights the way to those lost in the desert and displaced by the necromancers of the south.
 +
 +
And understandable. I believe it has been tough in Irondale to secure a priest for our realm. I have even considered it once or twice, but I am needed at the helm of our military still.
 +
|Title=Duke of Land's End, Earl of Heen
 +
}}</center>
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|-
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|-
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|colspan=1 | <center> {{Message2
 +
|Width=100%
 +
|Type=Request
 +
|Sender=Nerta the Weaver
 +
|Recipients=Personal message to Grante Le Monte
 +
|Content=Each finds their own way, and really given your background fighting with the army is probably your calling. Perhaps you'd like some sort of official title to that end?
 +
|Title=[[Melhed/Foederati|Foederati]]
 +
}}</center>
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|-
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 +
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|-
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! Felix
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|-
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|-
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|colspan=1 | <center> {{Message2
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|Width=100%
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|Type=Request
 +
|Sender=Nerta the Weaver
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|Recipients=Everyone in the Old Gods
 +
|Content=Welcome Felix,
 +
 +
What brings you to the temple, monster killing or something else?
 +
|Title=[[Melhed/Foederati|Foederati]]
 +
}}</center>
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|-
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|-
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|colspan=1 | <center> {{Message2
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|Width=100%
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|Type=Letter
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|Sender=Felix the Fickle
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|Recipients=Everyone in the Old Gods
 +
|Content=I was originally already part of the sanctum. However, a illness came to me which put me out of commission for a said bit of time. Now that I gave recovered I wish to rejoin. These continuing where I left monster killing and such others.
 +
|Title=Adventurer
 
}}</center>
 
}}</center>
 
|-
 
|-
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Care to go for a hunt?
 
Care to go for a hunt?
 +
|Title=Count of Seven Rivers
 +
}}</center>
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|-
 +
 +
|-
 +
! Black Jaw's Conquest
 +
[[File:BlackJaw.png|200px]]
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|-
 +
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|-
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|colspan=1 | <center> {{Message2
 +
|Width=100%
 +
|Type=Roleplay
 +
|Sender=Nerta the Weaver
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|Recipients=Everyone in Seven Rivers
 +
|Content=Spear slung across her shoulders, Nerta approaches the Shieldborn Manseas dawn breaks. Time to hunt.
 +
|Title=[[Melhed/Foederati|Foederati]]
 +
}}</center>
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|-
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|-
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|colspan=1 | <center> {{Message2
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|Width=100%
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|Type=Roleplay
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|Sender=Tyler Thrice-Blessed
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|Recipients=Everyone in Seven Rivers
 +
|Content=Tyler looked around idly. At first glance he saw very little  different then any other region. However he's sure the preistess is here for more then mundane monster hunting. As he was making his way back to turn in another 14 kobold heads for his reward he spots the priestess readying for a hunt  " glad to see you made it in one piece. I have been slaughtering the monsters here a dozen at a time I almost dare say there won't be much left for you to kill. Unless your here for more then kobolds or undead. Eaither way I'd hardly be an adventurer worth my salt if I did not join you. What are we off to kill today?"
 +
|Title=Adventurer
 +
}}</center>
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|-
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|-
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|colspan=1 | <center> {{Message2
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|Width=100%
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|Type=Roleplay
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|Sender=Soren Navaar
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|Recipients=Everyone in Rivers
 +
|Content=Around the Shieldborn Manse was a handful of guards fussing about. Soren's Captain, Oldred, was assuring them that the lord would be fine on his own regardless of their many, many concerns. He noted the clear skies, and gestured to the Sennex speaking with what he assumed was an adventurer. He rolled his eyes, but paid the group no mind as a man with dark hair and gray eyes made his way from the garrison. Soren Navaar, stood tall, and despite his slim figure, his clothes hid muscles well trained for combat. A spear on his back matched Nerta's, but he also carried a sword on his hip. A bow would have been too cumbersome with the pack of supplies for the road.
 +
 +
The Count made his way across the main road and with a smile waved a hand toward Nerta. "I see you've got a friend today," he commented, acknowledging Tyler with a nod. "Today, we'll cross the bridge into the swampland of Black Jaw's Conquest. The last time I was in there, I had a run in with a wolf the size of five regular wolves with black fur and golden eyes that seemed to look into my very soul. I got away, but I had just fought off a dozen of its pack. Now I want to finish the job." Looking between the pair, he gestured over to the garrison once more. "If either of you need supplies, arrows, an extra knife, go get them," he said, specifically casting his gaze on the adventurer. He didn't know what the man carried with him in his gear, but Soren had funding the man didn't.
 +
 +
The grind and squeal of metal sounded as the gate at the end of the stone bridge slowly pulled open. Two heavy wooden doors splitting apart from each other to allow their party through. Soren grinned, energized at the prospect of the hunt ahead, and turned his attention back to Nerta. "How've you been?" he asked, innocently enough. It felt as though the Sennex had been avoiding him for a while, the only question was the occasional letters. He hoped they hadn't all been from Aldo, though he held in the laugh that it was likely.
 +
|Title=Count of Seven Rivers
 +
}}</center>
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|-
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|-
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|colspan=1 | <center> {{Message2
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|Width=100%
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|Type=Roleplay
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|Sender=Nerta the Weaver
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|Recipients=Everyone in Seven Rivers
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|Content=Nerta's glittering eyes sweep from the adventurer to the count. After a long pause she lets the spear slip from her shoulders.
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 +
"Soren Silver Hawk and Tyler Thrice-Blessed on a hunt for a big wolf in the swampy grounds of [[Seven Rivers|Black Jaw's Conquest."]]
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The woman smirks and strides past the pair to the wagon of supplies.
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"Balin will be sorry he missed the fun." 
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Sorting through what items there were, Nerta pointedly ignores Soren's question for the first few moments and instead speaks with Tyler. 
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"Though this region seems peaceful it has been the target of multiple attacks by the [[Sunken Kingdom|Dread Necromancer.]] Even [[Baceolus Family/Bob|Bob]] has struggled to throw them back into the sea. Be alert and perhaps you'll be able to put those new visions to the test." 
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The woman's pivot away from Tyler, to pack a few extra knives, brings her dangerously close to the count. Dangerous for him anyway. They were almost close enough to embrace, but she didn't seem to bothered by it.
 +
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"I've been fine, Soren. Busy helping people, like Tyler there. The Old Man read some of your letters," pausing she idly scratches her chin, "I deciphered the pictures eventually. You were obviously having fun with the sketch pad."
 +
|Title=[[Melhed/Foederati|Foederati]]
 +
}}</center>
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|-
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|-
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|colspan=1 | <center> {{Message2
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|Width=100%
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|Type=Roleplay
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|Sender=Tyler Thrice-Blessed
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|Recipients=Everyone in Seven Rivers
 +
|Content=Tyler could feel the tension between the two something was clearly going on but it was none of his business and decided it was best to move on. He looks to the well dressed person before him.
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 +
" I don't imagine you have much I will need.  My dagger and my shield will be enough to get me through.  Believe it or not I had my own run in with a giant wolf not long ago. Thing came out of the ground it was made of thick roots and vines larger the our  forearms combined. Nasty fight barely made it out in one piece.  Guess you get what you get when you seek out the wolf gods attention.  Regardless you have the closest thing to an expert when it comes to fighting oversized wolves. And if this one actually bleeds  it might involve alot less luck on my part this time I hope . "
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 +
Tyler goes his best to remain stoic. He downplayed the fight but in reality the though of fighting another giant beast had him on edge. The last one nearly bit him in half. He slowly slips into his own thoughts as he takes his place behind the man getting ready to follow them on their journey.
 +
|Title=Adventurer
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}}</center>
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|-
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|-
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|colspan=1 | <center> {{Message2
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|Width=100%
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|Type=Roleplay
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|Sender=Soren Navaar
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|Recipients=Everyone in Rivers
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|Content=Soren could never help giving Nerta a smile. "I'm glad you deciphered them," he said, a little distance in the conversation created by time. "I can't regale you with stories all of the time, so now you can take them with you for when you have a moment." So he said, but they both knew how much she hated relying on the Old Man. He did it for her. "I bet Balin is doing well. I'll have to invite him on the next hunt."
 +
 +
He didn't say anything about the plant wolf, but nodded in approval of the adventurer's skills. Following up on Nerta's words, he  added. "I can't say I saw it bleed, but I felt it when my sword connected. It wasn't a hallucination. I was forced to flee with an opening though. It had too many other wolves with it. You'll know it when you see it. A wolf unlike any size you've seen before with black fur and golden eyes. It matches the legend of Blackjaw from this region."
 +
 +
Seeing the pair were ready, Soren started first toward the gate. The great stone bridge connected from the Shieldborn Manse arching up over the river and out to their destination. The heavy sounds of the gate closing behind them signaled they were on their own from that point forward. Turning his head, the Count took a moment to appreciate the view down the river as they walked. Soon they would reach lands thick with mud and sinkholes, where a town was still slowly being swallowed by the earth, and where a strange and mythical wolf made its home. Nerta would probably roll her eyes if he put it to song now, but maybe later.
 +
|Title=Count of Seven Rivers
 +
}}</center>
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|-
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|-
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|colspan=1 | <center> {{Message2
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|Width=100%
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|Type=Roleplay
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|Sender=Nerta the Weaver
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|Recipients=Everyone in Seven Rivers
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|Content=If the tension bothered Nerta, she gave no sign.
 +
 +
"A wolf hunt, is a wolf hunt. Tyler's experience with the sentry at the Seeping Giant will no doubt prove helpful. Though when we're in the fight Soren, just stab it this time."
 +
 
 +
Muttering to herself about foolish bards, Nerta heads deeper into the swamp with the pair. They make good time at first but, Nerta was originally from the Roof of the World and isn't familiar with such boggy ground. An hour in, and the woman is struggling to drag her mud caked cloak out of another tangled tree, only to misstep and sink up to her thighs. 
 +
 +
"Trickster curses..." Snarling in frustration at the God of travel delay. "I guess you didn't have a vision about that little sink hole, Tyler?" 
 +
 +
Struggles only encourage the soft ground to swallow Nerta, soaking her clothes from the waist down in icy water. Eventually she's forced to grab both Tyler and Soren for help, and her cloak doesn't make it. 
 +
 +
Stripped of her customary covering, the woman avoids Tyler's gaze and busies herself with everything else imaginable. The usual grumpy self confidence has been replaced with hunched unease while she balances with one hand against Soren, and a second holding her spear to the side. A third runs through her hair. A fourth tugs her blue silk shirt up from the clinging trousers, while the fifth and sixth try in vain to scrape mud.
 +
 +
"So," Nerta's tone is level, but with obvious tension, "Now you know why I wear a cloak."  
 +
 +
Finally she meets the thrice-blessed adventurer's gaze.
 +
 +
"We going to have a problem?"
 +
|Title=[[Melhed/Foederati|Foederati]]
 +
}}</center>
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|-
 +
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|-
 +
|colspan=1 | <center> {{Message2
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|Width=100%
 +
|Type=Roleplay
 +
|Sender=Tyler Thrice-Blessed
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|Recipients=Everyone in Seven Rivers
 +
|Content=The bugs were horrendous. There's a reason Tyler doesn't visit swamps  fighting even normal monsters in these conditions much less a wolf the size of a peasent hut.  Tyler hardly noticed at first as the preistess sunk into the mudd.  Tyler nearly loses his own balance as the priestess uses him for support to get out of the mud. After a brief moment of disbelief Tyler begins to physically count on his hands while looking at the preistess and her extra appendages.  After a moment Tyler gives a stern and serious look at the preistess saying nothing for a few moments before speaking.
 +
 +
" Let me guess you asked the gods to give you a hand and they took it literally? You  would think with all that extra support you could keep yourself upright in a bit of mud."
 +
Tyler's voice was clearly surprised but still friendly and maybe a little sarcastic. 
 +
 +
" Relax a little your extra arms don't bother me any. Though the fact you don't use more then one weapon is a bit disappointing. You could be the world's first dual wielding spear user."
 +
 +
Tyler looks as of he's about to speak again  when suddenly he stops clutching his head as a piercing howl echos through his head. He looks to his two companions as he falls to his knees.  The two seem unfazed and perhaps a little confused. The howling becomes louder and more high pitched. He has what feels like a wakening dream as images flash before his mind. Leaving the town and heading for the swamp and their whole journey up until moments before he fell to the ground. But he was not seeing it through his own eyes but something else's. Something that has been following them this entire time.  Something big and something hungry. The howling stops and pain starts to subside. He only has the wits to get out a few words barely a whisper hoping someone can hear him. " Something is following us and I don't think it's friendly. Ready yourselves."
 +
|Title=Adventurer
 +
}}</center>
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|-
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|-
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|colspan=1 | <center> {{Message2
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|Width=100%
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|Type=Roleplay
 +
|Sender=Rin the Rabbit
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|Recipients=Everyone in Rivers
 +
|Content=The reeds and bushes rustled. The sounds of mud squelching beneath boots from beyond them came first, and then through them erupted a young woman. "Wolf!" she shouted at the group. "Wolf! Wolf! Wolf!" Her feet sliding out from under a step, the  woman fell into the mud and slid along the ground to a stop just before the group. Taking barely a moment to catch her breath she scrambled to her feet, almost falling back down once more in the process, caught by the helping hand of the Count. A small mask covered the lower half of her face.
 +
 +
Rin froze as her head swiveled around like an alert sentry searching for the noise it heard. "Left. No, right. It's gonna come from the right!" A howl cried out from behind them and a small, reddish wolf poked its head in their direction. "It has friends!" The daggers at her hips were useless, but if she found a tree and avoided the big one...
 +
 +
|Title=Adventurer
 +
}}</center>
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|-
 +
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|-
 +
|colspan=1 | <center> {{Message2
 +
|Width=100%
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|Type=Roleplay
 +
|Sender=Soren Navaar
 +
|Recipients=Everyone in Rivers
 +
|Content=From the lack of an initial reaction, and Nerta using Soren for support, it was clear this was not his first time seeing Nerta without her cloak, though he had shifted his sword ever so slightly in the event Tyler turned on her. He was one of the continent's better swordsmen if the academy instructors were anything to gauge against. Before he could make his own comment though he tensed. Something... Then Tyler fell.
 +
 +
Confusion and chaos. A new adventurer, Tyler collapsed, and Nerta still struggling to shake off the mud. Dammit! he cursed in his head. He reaches over Rin and pulls Tyler to his feet by his cloak. "This is a terrible place for a fight. The old village isn't far from here," he told the group as he pulled his spear from his back. Eyes focused on the ground, he stepped past everyone and jabbed the butt of his spear into firm earth. "Follow me, and walk where I do," he told them as he started at a quick pace, guiding the group, more than once he reached back and pulled the skittish newcomer along, making sure she didn't bolt to her death. Every few steps he sticks the ground with the spear once, maybe twice, watching how the earth tried to eat it each time, determining whether it was safe to walk there.
 +
 +
The thunderous howls grew louder as they grew in size and number. He saw the stones before they hit them, the remnants of the old road, and suddenly they had firm footing again. A half-collapsed tower loomed over them around the trees outside the village, tilted as its materials returned to the earth that birthed them. The town wasn't in much better shape, but it would do. The cacophony of wolves was endless. Was the whole swamp one pack?
 +
 +
Guiding them to the tower, Soren pushed open the door and pointed for Rin to go inside. "Use your bow," he ordered, hoping she was a better shot than he was expecting. He closed the door behind her and hoped she would survive. Flashing a grin to Nerta his eyes moved to the gray swamp, and then to the back of the wolf pack where the dire wolf stood waiting, with golden eyes and black fur unlike the reddish swamp wolves. "Might as well give you one last chorus, right?" he asked with a laugh.
 +
 +
"Halfway between the black and gray
 +
Is no place for a life to waste away
 +
I'll take the road with all the sta~a~akes,"
 +
 +
He sang, mentally readying himself for the attacks that would come as the pack circled and closed in.
 +
|Title=Count of Seven Rivers
 +
}}</center>
 +
|-
 +
 +
|-
 +
|colspan=1 | <center> {{Message2
 +
|Width=100%
 +
|Type=Roleplay
 +
|Sender=Tyler Thrice-Blessed
 +
|Recipients=Everyone in Seven Rivers
 +
|Content=Tyler quickly shook off his daze whatever warning or vision he had seemed to pass.  Just as he bagan to get his wits about him he was roughly yanked to his feet.  As they began running he noticed the panicking adventurer another bow or blade never hurt.  As Soren leads them through the swamplands Tyler begins to formulate a plan of attack. It's clear his weapon while a powerful unique artifact was still a dagger not the best weapon for a regular sized wolf much less one several times larger.  He would need to find a different approach then a head on fight. He could rely on his companions and there much longer spears for the reach neccasaary to effectively fight such a beast head on. He on the other hand had a different idea.
 +
 +
As Soren led them closer and closer to the old village  Tyler took to opportunity to slip away. He should stop and let them  what he plans to do but there was just no time for conversation as the howling becomes louder and from more directions.  He quickly veererd just off course just before they broke the tree line from the swamp to the old village he threw himself into a smaller patch of mud covering most of his body in an attempt to cover his scent. Then he scanned the tree line. He needed a position where he could be concealed  from the horde of wolves until he was ready to strike. He spotted a thick tree with many heavy branches. A few of the branches looked a little dried and dead but only near the top.
 +
 +
 +
As Tyler reaches the tree  he digs through his pouch hanging from his belt and begins throwing many small metal spikes called caltrops around the base of the tree. Certainly it won't kill any of the wolves but they might think twice about hanging around the base of it.
 +
 +
Just as Tyler finishes his ascent to the middle of the tree he spots it. A mighty wolf eyes yellow as the sun.  And with him  more wolves then he can count.  And most of them gather just Infront of his hiding spot amoung the trees. He spots Soren as he ushers the young adventurer to the  old tower and returns his gaze to that massive beast.  He can only hope that the priestess or her friend can see him peeking out from thick foliage just behind the giant monster they are about to face. He places his finger upon his lips as he stares in there direction. Right now he can do nothing. Not without a distraction. Here's hoping his companions  can provide exactly that.
 +
|Title=Adventurer
 +
}}</center>
 +
|-
 +
 +
 +
|-
 +
|colspan=1 | <center> {{Message2
 +
|Width=100%
 +
|Type=Roleplay
 +
|Sender=Nerta the Weaver
 +
|Recipients=Everyone in Seven Rivers
 +
|Content="Thrice-Blessed comedian, is it?"
 +
 +
The relieved and amused woman had her many hands full, so when Tyler drops to the muck it's up to Soren to help. Not that he had much chance when the panicked young woman skids to a stop among the trio. Nerta's surprise doesn't last for long, and she settles into a wide stance to scan the marshy ground where the new arrival had pointed. Freed of the cloak, the nimble Nerta acts as vanguard while the count leads them through the bog and into the crumbling remains of the old village. 
 +
 +
"This place isn't much better for a fight, Soren." A howl echoes, "Especially with numbers like that."
 +
 +
As the bard breaks into song, a crooked smile sneaks onto her face. No hood to hide behind now.
 +
 +
"Did you choose this tower for the archer, or for your final performance?"
 +
 +
Before Soren could respond the audience arrived. The mangy things were near starved. With patchy brown fur highlighting sleek muscles and the angular bones underneath. The first of the beasts hurls itself at the door in a mad dash only to catch a sweep of Nerta's spear across one flank. As the thing pivots and snarls to earn a dagger in the eye while another flashes through the open door into the haunch of a second beast. 
 +
 +
"Because I'm not ready for your finale, and you don't have my permission to die."
 +
 +
Grinning as she springs from her crouch, Nerta fights like no one else. Balancing fluidly from foot to hand, from door jam to floor, her many hands are a blur of motion that sees her twist like a tree. Like a whirlwind of death that stabs, strikes and dodges the first wave of beasts. She even catches herself when a bit of stray mud from her trousers threatens to toss her into the wall of the tower. Puffing aside stray hair she casts a glance up as the archer makes a clean shot, saving Nerta from a toothy necklace. 
 +
 +
"I like her..."
 +
 +
Yet though the pawns might have been sacrificed, where were the rest of the pieces?  
 +
|Title=[[Melhed/Foederati|Foederati]]
 +
}}</center>
 +
|-
 +
 +
|-
 +
|colspan=1 | <center> {{Message2
 +
|Width=100%
 +
|Type=Roleplay
 +
|Sender=Rin the Rabbit
 +
|Recipients=Everyone in Seven Rivers
 +
|Content=From the tower window came a cry. "Two more from behind the tower." In a one two beat, the thwip of two arrows zip-lined from the tower and the first wolf slumped and skidded to a halt as the second took it in its shoulder and kept charging. The next round of wolves were larger and significantly healthier. The runts knew they hadn't stood a chance and scattered, so Rin focused her fire on one then another, hoping to bring them down quickly. One. Two. Three. These wolves were soaking up arrows with heavy muscle. She got the throat of one and it even tried to snap its jaws in Soren's direction one last time before it collapsed.
 +
 +
She watched as Soren rounded on the next one, his own spear dancing. It was a sight to behold, the strange woman and the noble seemed to be in tune with each others movements. As the woman danced around, the man drove his spear into a beast, and when he was on defense, she picked right up where he left off.
 +
 +
Thwip.<br>
 +
Thwip.<br>
 +
Thwip.<br>
 +
...<br>
 +
 +
Nothing?
 +
 +
"I'm out of arrows!" Rin looked around. The patter of another wolf came around the tower again and she panicked. It was bigger than any so far. Left. Right. The other adventurer was stuck in a tree, the big wolf looked on, looming over the victims it watched, waiting for exhaustion to set in. Next came the throwing knives. She had one shot she could take, did she dare with the others around?
 +
|Title=Adventurer
 +
}}</center>
 +
|-
 +
 +
|-
 +
|colspan=1 | <center> {{Message2
 +
|Width=100%
 +
|Type=Roleplay
 +
|Sender=Soren Navaar
 +
|Recipients=Everyone in Rivers
 +
|Content=Soren moved easily with Nerta, the two neved once colliding as they kept the wolves pushed back. This may not be so bad, he thought as the tip of the spear found flesh. He twisted and drove the tip in deeper and with a jerk extricated the butt straight into another wolf's snout.
 +
 +
Two more of the larger wolves came at them, one bearing down on the priestess. She blocked only to hear the cry from the tower that the adventurer was out of arrows. Both front paws threatened to push her down into the muck as the spear kept the beast at bay. The other charged Soren. He stepped back as the beast's jaws snapped at air. Instead of protecting himself he flipped the spear and drove it into the belly of Nerta's attacker. "You don't get to die on me either," he told her, with a grin. "I've got at least one more song for you," he teased as he pressed his spear into one of her free hands and drew the sword at his hip. Was he crazy, or did he get a small smile in return? "And maybe a real dance," he added as he brought the sword down on the wolf that had come for him.
 +
 +
The big wolf, Blackjaw itself stands on high alert, watching, waiting. It seemed aware of the nearby adventurer, offering a low hum of a growl the whole time it was near. Slowly, it turned its attention toward Tyler, smelling more human in the tree nearby. The first step was immediately halted by a yelp as it stepped on the caltrops scattered below. The growl went from hum to a battlecry. If it could give a look, this one said -
 +
 +
Blackjaw's head whipped around toward Nerta and Soren as Tyler got the distraction he needed. Focusing on the man's sword, a thing that partially looked like the smith had used crude metals hastily melted into a blade, and constantly giving off a feeling of something wrong. That sword was back. It knew it. The beast crouched and prepared to join the fight itself.
 
|Title=Count of Seven Rivers
 
|Title=Count of Seven Rivers
 
}}</center>
 
}}</center>
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|colspan=1 | <center> {{Message2
 
|colspan=1 | <center> {{Message2
 
|Width=100%
 
|Width=100%
|Type=Request
+
|Type=Roleplay
 +
|Sender=Tyler Thrice-Blessed
 +
|Recipients=Everyone in Seven Rivers
 +
|Content=A single branch. That's all it took to get the wolfs attention. It seemed sturdy enough to grab onto for support but almost immediately snapped I'm half when he reached out to grab it.  The wolf bright eyes met his and for just a moment it seemed it was going to snap the very tree he stood in in half. He saw the irritation turn to bloodlust in the beasts eyes when it stumbled into his little trap. The only problem now was the beast knew exactly where he was. Luckily the wolf attention snapped to his two companions.  Well if he was going to make a move it needed to be now.
 +
 
 +
Tyler tested the strength of the branch he stood on. It seemed sturdy enough though if he's wrong he will be too dead for it to matter.  He took a long deep breath and steadied his nerves. And then he two quick steps as far out as he dared be on the branch and leaped from the top of it.
 +
 
 +
He had only one thought as he plummeted his  dagger held firmly  in both hands towards the massive wolfs back. Please don't miss.
 +
 
 +
​​​​​​The daggers pierces the wolfs  back leg from the base of the tail and the weight of Tyler's body dragged the blade down nearly a foot before the flesh held the blade firmly in place. The wolf let  out a defending howl causing Tyler's ears to ring  nearly making him lose his grip on the blade.  The wolf began to flail violently  in an attempt to shake off his attacker which unfortunately for Tyler was working  inch by inch he could see the dagger sliding from the wound and when he finally got dislodged he would be falling into the middle of a waiting and hungry pack. All he could do now was hold on and see what happens next.
 +
|Title=Adventurer
 +
}}</center>
 +
|-
 +
 
 +
|-
 +
|colspan=1 | <center> {{Message2
 +
|Width=100%
 +
|Type=Roleplay
 +
|Sender=Nerta the Weaver
 +
|Recipients=Everyone in Seven Rivers
 +
|Content=The whirling dance of blades is a far cry better than what The Sun in Iron & Gold managed during the Equinox Masquerade. Weaving and ducking around the more stable Soren, the woman spares him another fleeting smile as he strikes down a beast inches from snapping at her leg.
 +
 
 +
"A real dance?" Wolf blood splashes across an arm. "What's more real than death."
 +
 
 +
Bracing the second spear to form a crude pike wall, the woman's glittering eyes are drawn away from Blackjaw and toward the twisted slag of a blade in Soren's hand.
 +
 
 +
"Crystal Cursed! What ''is'' that?"
 +
 
 +
Soren's response is cut off by the piercing howl of the huge wolf. Tyler had made his move and now the pack was closing in.
 +
 
 +
"I hope it cuts better than it looks or else Tyler's going to be consecrated in his own blood."
 +
 
 +
Nerta's skittering run toward the pack brings the taste of musk and blood. She adds to the bounty with a slash of Soren's spear, but there were a dozen yet, and even she couldn't get eyes on the back of her head. She needed an edge though, and reaches for a Graft. The pain is sharp, like claws tearing through her darkening skin. She manages a convulsing stab into a second beast, but the shuddering hiss of pain pins her in place while glossy chitin hardens around her.
 +
|Title=[[Melhed/Foederati|Foederati]]
 +
}}</center>
 +
|-
 +
 
 +
|-
 +
|colspan=1 | <center> {{Message2
 +
|Width=100%
 +
|Type=Roleplay
 +
|Sender=Soren Navaar
 +
|Recipients=Everyone in Rivers
 +
|Content=Like her bare arms, this was not the first time Soren had seen this, but seeing her vulnerable... Soren glanced between Tyler and Nerta and he made his choice without a second thought. A dark shadow hung over Soren as he took the twisted weapon and, surprisingly, he carved through the first wolf like parchment. It looked like twisted and scarred metal, but it held what he thought was an unmatched edge. A master swordsman in his own right, he weaved a defense around Nerta.The wolves growled and started circling, adopting a pattern where they found a way to close in and back out, testing his reactions. The next one to attack tried to dart in from behind, but Soren went low and around Nerta, crippling the creature as it's leg cracked from the impact of the sword. The rest of the circle spread out as the next strike ended the attacking wolf.
 +
 
 +
The sound of another yelp caught everyone's attention, even the other wolves as Soren turned to see Rin struggling with one of the wolves. Out of arrows she had decided to leave the tower and pounce with her own weapons. "Watch yourself, girl!" Soren yelled to her. "Help Tyler if you can!"
 +
 
 +
Soren took the opportunity to attack another wolf, hoping to hold them long enough for Nerta to finish her transformation. The shadow over him seemed to revel in the chaos though, as he reached his next target. Dodging back a half step, his arm shot forward and tugged the wolf forward by the scruff of the neck and pulled it straight into the blade.
 +
|Title=Count of Seven Rivers
 +
}}</center>
 +
|-
 +
 
 +
|-
 +
|colspan=1 | <center> {{Message2
 +
|Width=100%
 +
|Type=Roleplay
 +
|Sender=Rin the Rabbit
 +
|Recipients=Everyone in Seven Rivers
 +
|Content=It had seemed like a good idea at the time, but now, as she plummeted down towards an unsuspecting wolf, Rin regretted her decision, not that she had long to. Crashing down with daggers on top of the wolf, she drove the blades into its neck and then leapt free with a fluid movement. The wolf growled and tried to give one last strike in its death throes, and she was forced off of her feet.
 +
 
 +
Soren called out to her as she managed to push the beast away, and she suppressed the growl. No good came from insulting nobles. "My name is Rin, not girl," she shouted back.
 +
 
 +
Unusually quick on her feet, she bounded across the chosen battlefield much like a rabbit would to escape its predators, right up until another large wolf blocked her path and forced her to twist aside to avoid its strike. She hit the ground and immediately found herself set upon by her attacker, but scrappy could just as well be her name in that moment. Grabbing its paws, she gained leverage and rapidly pummeled her feet into the belly of the large wolf, delighting as it struggled to go free. One last powerful kick sent it staggering back as she tucked her legs back and shot them out to leap back to her feet. The wolf started forward again, but Rin was unfazed as she backhanded the creature in the snout.
 +
 
 +
"No!" She shouted at it, but it growled in return. The second slap got a whimper, but it was the third one where the wolf finally backed down. It was debating whether or not to slink off when Rin hopped on its back. "Like the wolves of old, you're mine now." The beast didn't put up a fight as she rode the large wolf towards Tyler.
 +
 
 +
Blackjaw bucked and kicked, spinning once in a while to try and snap at Tyler, only causing the daggers to slice further into the flesh, as it rampaged once more in a vicious cycle. Rin had to admit she was impressed the man had held on as her wolf trotted up almost beneath them without resistance. Pulling a rope from her belt with a claw on the end, she swung it up and hooked it in place. The beast roared again as she scrambled up, leaving the wolf to escape. She reached out and offered Tyler a hand pull him back up. "Maybe don't try to take the big one alone," she suggested as she clung tight to the back fur. "Want a hand back up? We can kill this thing together."
 +
|Title=Adventurer
 +
}}</center>
 +
|-
 +
 
 +
|-
 +
|colspan=1 | <center> {{Message2
 +
|Width=100%
 +
|Type=Roleplay
 +
|Sender=Tyler Thrice-Blessed
 +
|Recipients=Everyone in Seven Rivers
 +
|Content=Tyler's ears are still ringing as a hand reached out above him. When did they get there?  Not in much of a position to turn down help he released his grip with one of his hands  and uses the new support to drag himself on top of the beast and dislodge the dagger from the now gaping wound on the beasts back leg. It won't be moving quite so fast or nimble now. 
 +
 
 +
Gathering his wits and  his next plan of action. He looks to rin. "I'm happy to have a company the view from up here is amazing"
 +
 
 +
Tyler glances in the direction  of the wolfs head " if we're going to do any real damage we're going to need to get to the things vitals  stay close maybe we live another day.
 +
Tyler begins burying his dagger into the wolfs back using it for support as he slowly inches his way to the beasts skull.  Every time he pulls the blade out and inches his way forward before sliding it back into  the wolf causing  new screams of rage and anger.  He glances back to check on rins progress as he drew ever closer to his goal. Those shining yellow eyes
 +
|Title=Adventurer
 +
}}</center>
 +
|-
 +
 
 +
|-
 +
|colspan=1 | <center> {{Message2
 +
|Width=100%
 +
|Type=Roleplay
 +
|Sender=Nerta the Weaver
 +
|Recipients=Everyone in Seven Rivers
 +
|Content=Nerta sways upright drunkenly as Soren steps in to clear some space.
 +
 
 +
“Dumb bard. The hero is supposed to kill the monster and save the girl.”
 +
 
 +
The spears leap up to jab around the dashing swordsman, warding off wolves as she covers his back.
 +
 
 +
“Thanks though. Chitin is… hard.”
 +
 
 +
An apt phrase given the distraction of the bounding Rin atop her involuntary steed. It gave one wolf time enough to pounce, but though claws tear her blue shirt they leave nothing but rough scratches on the hard shell.
 +
 
 +
“You’re too static Soren. This isn’t a waltz.”
 +
 
 +
Weaving around Soren’s left, the spears ward some of the pack from helping the great Blackjaw. Had to give the pair time, but it was a delicate dance. Armoured or no, fighting a dozen wolves was hard. Too long focused in one direction and a surprise would creep up…
 +
 
 +
…Dropping to the ground as a pair of beasts lunge, one sails overhead while the other comes in low to bite at her leg. Nerta’s last dagger finds better purchase than the teeth, but Nerta still grimaces at the glancing blow shreds her muddy trousers. Chitin or no, that was The Trickster repaying her dunk in the mud.
 +
 
 +
Yet as much pressure as there was on the nimble woman, Soren had it worse. The Count of Seven Rivers had apparently offended both Gods and beasts today, because as the woman lost her spears one of the wolves sunk teeth into the man’s sword arm. A small blessing that it didn’t break bone, but the bite of wolves bleeds something fierce.​​
 +
|Title=[[Melhed/Foederati|Foederati]]
 +
}}</center>
 +
|-
 +
 
 +
|-
 +
|colspan=1 | <center> {{Message2
 +
|Width=100%
 +
|Type=Roleplay
 +
|Sender=Soren Navaar
 +
|Recipients=Everyone in Rivers
 +
|Content=The grunt of pain as Soren's sword was short and harsh. The longer the pair kept the wolves from swarming Rin and Tyler, the worse shape they were in. Lashing out, Soren brought his fist straight into the wolf's nose and forced it to leg go before he got swarmed. Blood ran in rivulets down his arm, pooling into scarlet droplets. Damage done, Soren tore the sleeve from his shirt and harmlessly cast the muddy cloth at the nearest wolf before doing the same to the other sleeve, though he wiped some of the blood from his arm before tossing it aside, barely prolonging how long it would take for the blood to reach his hand. Would he be able to hold the blade?
 +
 
 +
The brief moments stretched for eternity as Soren took a deep breath and studied the wolves, all circling in unison, more organized than some soldiers he'd met. Well Emperor, if you liked messing in my life, now would be the time to do it if you wanted me to live. He stepped toward the wolves again, blade raised wincing as pain lightninged down his arm. A coin toss, and an illusion replied to him, at least he thought it was. For the briefest moment it seemed like the sword he held, was a different weapon. White steel, almost pure with its bloodstains, existed for just a moment, too quick to notice, as steel tore into flesh. Had the wolf hesitated at that same moment?
 +
 
 +
The circle of wolves tightened and Soren found his back against Nerta's. It was reassuring to know she was still there, still in the fight. With his free hand, Soren pulled a spare push dagger from his belt and passed it back to her, but as she closed her fingers around the spare weapon, Soren lingered and closed his own fingers around her hand. A soft squeeze and he pulled away. 'Don't die,' perhaps? 'Be safe,' maybe? Something more? He didn't say, and took a step toward the beasts.
 +
 
 +
Remember your training, he told himself as charged the smallest wolf. Break the line, and give Nerta some breathing room.
 +
 
 +
Each step slick with mud and the first drops of blood reaching his hand, he switched to a two handed stance as he swung the blade, looping it around in a feint and slicing across the wolf's eyes. He didn't stop moving and broke the line of wolves as he sent the blind one skittering away. The nearest wolves faced him, but a high pitched howl caused more wolves to break off and turn toward the Count. Great. They're after me.
 +
|Title=Count of Seven Rivers
 +
}}</center>
 +
|-
 +
 
 +
|-
 +
|colspan=1 | <center> {{Message2
 +
|Width=100%
 +
|Type=Roleplay
 +
|Sender=Rin the Rabbit
 +
|Recipients=Everyone in Seven Rivers
 +
|Content=Rin nodded, the mask over the lower half of her face was suffocating from the moisture, and she finally pulled it down taking several cool breaths of air and tucking reddish-brown hair back into her hood. On her face she revealed a few freckles and a tight smile as she followed after Tyler. "Too bad I can't properly ride this wolf. It'd be great to see my father's expression if I tamed and brought this home," she said with a musical laugh, though she carefully hid her mouth behind her hand. Even bringing home the one she had gotten to ride briefly probably wouldn't give her the rights to one of the family riding wolves, though she dreamed of it someday.
 +
 
 +
Following his path, Rin makes sure to add new holes to the beast's back as it started to trail in circles, jaws coming close as they climbed onward. More than once she found herself clinging to fur and one dagger as she dodged snapping teeth and more than once she was glad that she was not getting sick from the spinning. When Tyler looked back, she smiled and gave a determined nod. "Just tell me what you need! I can swing back down if you need a distraction," she offered, letting the more experienced adventurer take the lead.
 +
|Title=Adventurer
 +
}}</center>
 +
|-
 +
 
 +
|-
 +
|colspan=1 | <center> {{Message2
 +
|Width=100%
 +
|Type=Roleplay
 +
|Sender=Tyler Thrice-Blessed
 +
|Recipients=Everyone in Seven Rivers
 +
|Content=Inch by inch he drew closer  to the head of the wolf. the beast flails and howls as it receives one new wound after another from dragging himself dagger first along the monsters back. Right behind him Rin was sure to leave new marks on the beast.
 +
 
 +
Turning toward Rin Tyler would say " When we get to the head first take out it's eyes then we go for the throat and hope we can penetrate the skin enough that it suffocates" Tyler pauses for a moment before adding " if it needs to breathe at all that is. If not we'll just improvise it's worked well for me so far"
 +
 
 +
As Tyler neared the neck of the wolf the violent shaking only intensifies Tyler quickly slides his shield from his back onto his arm having to just for a moment  hold himself with just his dagger in the beasts flesh.  Just as he felt the straps of his shield he realized his mistake. He had drifted too far to the right while ​​​​​focusing on not being shaken off during the climb and hanging on.  However the wolf had noticed that He was within biting range.
 +
 
 +
Within just a moment the wolf violently snapped it's jaws in Tyler's direction. Just in time Tyler brought his shield just above his head. The wolf jaws snapped down on the shield. And with a mighty yank of it's head tore Tyler free of its side dagger and all.
 +
 
 +
Tyler quickly found himself flung straight up  in the air directly above the now open mouth of the wolf.  Tyler aimed his dagger to catch the light from his sunlight dagger. As it struck the metal the light seemed to intensefy into a  nearly solid beam of light. One that struck the wolf directly in its eyes. The beast was blindly flailing now disoriented from the concentrated flash of light. And as Tyler fell his dagger plunged into the side of the beasts neck causing another gaping wound as he drags to a stop his feet dangling in the air.  Tyler examines the wound he created. While certainly nasty it doesn't look like he hit any of the arteries or the  asphogys meaning a beast like that may be hurting but it probably won't die. Looking to Rin he can only hope she can help finish the job before the wolf regains it's wits and finishes him off. Once again he does the only thing he can. Pray to the gods he comes out of this Alive.
 +
|Title=Adventurer
 +
}}</center>
 +
|-
 +
 
 +
|-
 +
|colspan=1 | <center> {{Message2
 +
|Width=100%
 +
|Type=Roleplay
 +
|Sender=Rin the Rabbit
 +
|Recipients=Everyone in Seven Rivers
 +
|Content=I did not sign up for this today. Rin thought to herself as she started scrambling up the wolf. What is with these lands? First I get sent to the middle of nowhere, and then I try to tackle a bounty and now I'm scaling a wolf like a tree! The wolf, was flailing harder now, and - Is that Tyler in the air? The world seemed to float as she lifted into the air, barely holding on to the wolf by angling her dagger before she lifted too much. The resistance of flesh and fur held her in place, and the young woman crashed back down with a grunt as the grip of one of her daggers jabbed into her chest.
 +
 
 +
Tyler distracted the beast. She clambered up the rest of the way, pausing as she reached the neck. Once she stepped onto the head, all bets were off. She swallowed hard and looked down at Tyler dangling. She wanted to pull him up again. Stop it! She scolded herself. You're the next princess of thieves. Act like it! She closed her eyes to take stock of her gear once more. Rope. Knives. Three daggers. A bow with no arrows. Rags, oils... A striker. A plan formed in her mind as she started readying her tools, working as if someone's life depended on it. It did. Hers. Tyler's. The Foederati Lady. The noble. What was his name again? Soren... Navaar? Rin paled and worked faster.
 +
 
 +
Jaws started snapping as Rin made her way on to the wolf's head and sprinted for the nose. The wolf flipped its head upward sending Rin airborne. The view would have been grand, seeing for miles in every direction, if it weren't for the gaping jaws below her. First came the oils, rags were shoved into three bottles and had already been lit, she threw two them down into the toothy maw below, praying to the Gods that she was successful. The first went left, but burst on the beast's tooth erupting in a spray of fire. The second went straight into the gullet, the creature whipping its head around to save itself. Falling like she was taught, she plunged right back onto the snout dagger first. Blade embedded in thin flesh before snapping, but the girl kicked off like a beast herself and darted forward.
 +
 
 +
The eyes came next. Throwing knives in one... Two... As one of the glowing orbs opened, her dagger launched and she changed directions toward the other with a dagger and plunged it through the eyelid. As the wolf opened its eye the dagger dragged upwards spilling more fluids in the process. reaching behind her, she pulled out the third bottle of oil and shoved it into the eye wound, grimacing as it burst. The wolf threw its head up once more as its howl resonated through the swamp sending Rin tumbling back down to the neck before she found purchase with a dagger.
 +
 
 +
She looked down at Tyler still struggling to hold on and offered a hand for the second time that day. "This isn't the right way to ride a wolf," she told him with a grin as the beast started to stumble.
 +
|Title=Adventurer
 +
}}</center>
 +
|-
 +
 
 +
|-
 +
|colspan=1 | <center> {{Message2
 +
|Width=100%
 +
|Type=Roleplay
 
|Sender=Nerta the Weaver
 
|Sender=Nerta the Weaver
|Recipients=Personal message to Soren Navaar
+
|Recipients=Everyone in Seven Rivers
|Content=
+
|Content=Nothing about Nerta was soft. A hard woman, with a hard expression, from hard mountains and covered in hard chitin. Yet on occasion she would smile or laugh, a hint of who she could be.
 +
 
 +
Encased in that hard shell, she barely feels the bard's gentle squeeze. But their fingers entwine around the handle of the knife.
 +
 
 +
"Holding out on me? Fine time to come clean. I'll go for the spears, you cover."
 +
 
 +
The woman weaves between the wolves, daggers flashing as she rolls around one and ducks under another. The new knife tears through fur as the howl echos, yet as she collects her spear she discovers Soren is not behind her. He's harried the other way by the pack.
 +
 
 +
And ''bleeding''.
 +
 
 +
"Crystal Cursed Idiot! You don't run from wolves!"
 +
 
 +
Hissing in frustration and fear, the pair of adventurers were faring better with Blackjaw, but only just.
 +
 
 +
His shield saving his neck, Tyler's heroics were indeed blessed. He even managed to land quite the blow. Perhaps that little dagger was enough after all.
 +
 
 +
And if not, the conflagration couldn't hurt.
 +
 
 +
It did force the spear wielding silhouette to focus on the great beast. No rushing to Soren's aid while the wolf yelps and staggers around. Those snapping jaws were just as deadly as the beast dies in agony. There's no dodging this. All Nerta could do was brace her spear on the ground and let the blinded beast impale itself before collapsing atop her
 
|Title=[[Melhed/Foederati|Foederati]]
 
|Title=[[Melhed/Foederati|Foederati]]
 
}}</center>
 
}}</center>
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|-
 
|-
! Grant Le Monte
+
|colspan=1 | <center> {{Message2
 +
|Width=100%
 +
|Type=Roleplay
 +
|Sender=Soren Navaar
 +
|Recipients=Everyone in Rivers
 +
|Content="You do when you want to do something stupid for someone!" The only words he called back.
 +
 
 +
The wolves closed in and Soren stumbled in the thick muck as he sprinted straight for the tower. His steps hobbled, but he threw himself into it, sliding across mud. He held back the wince as his shin scraped stone, tearing a new hole in his pants leg. He spun on his knee and brought his sword around. The closest wolf was taken off guard as it's skull cracked and went tumbling away, but the next wolf was on him before he could come back with the blade.
 +
 
 +
Dripping the sword, an uppercut dug a second push dagger into the wolf's throat and was pulled in time for the next one. Soren’s off arm caught the next wolf's bite with no cloth to protect him. One, two jabs with the dagger, and before the life could fade out, he swung the wolf to shield himself from the fourth, the attack caused the teeth to tear out as he stood and found enough firm earth to punt the beast with a solid kick.
 +
 
 +
The wolves paused long enough for Soren to get his blade back, though this tome he struggled to even hold it in two hands. Let them come to you, he told himself. Don't waste the energy.
 +
 
 +
The next wolf to charge met Soren’s blade. He came in low from an angle, and as the wolf leapt aside, it was caught in the swing. The next one followed immediately as Soren reversed the blades direction and crashed it back down killing another wolf.
 +
 
 +
The ground rumbled, and both wolves and Soren turned as Blackjaw fell to the earth. The largest of the remaining wolves howled, a piercing cry that painted the air with responses. The wolves fled. Soren grinned as he backed against the tower and slid down against the stones before slumping on the ground.
 +
|Title=Count of Seven Rivers
 +
}}</center>
 +
|-
 +
 
 +
|-
 +
|colspan=1 | <center> {{Message2
 +
|Width=100%
 +
|Type=Roleplay
 +
|Sender=Nerta the Weaver
 +
|Recipients=Everyone in Seven Rivers
 +
|Content=Nerta works herself free of the still smoldering bulk of the beast with only a few hairs singed, but otherwise in one piece. Yanking her last arm free with a grunt, one hand runs through her hair while another fumbles for one of the scattered weapons.
 +
 
 +
The Crystal Cursed bard...
 +
 
 +
Heart in her throat at the howl, those glittering eyes rise to find Soren not pinned, bloody and torn, but slumped against the tower a muddy mess. Slumping to the ground with a clicking laugh, relief is palpable as the wolves scatter.
 +
 
 +
"Crystal bard, Crystal... Too close."
 +
 
 +
Leaning on her arms, she twitches and hisses as the Graft starts to fade. It left her shuddering, sweaty and sluggish to rise to her feet.
 +
 
 +
"You run... off. Take all... the... fun." Panting, she paws at the ruined attire, "And co... copy my Tricks-ter... granted clothes? Have you no shame."
 +
 
 +
Grinning, and dressed in more mud than cloth, she takes a staggering step and sits hard on the ground.
 +
|Title=[[Melhed/Foederati|Foederati]]
 +
}}</center>
 
|-
 
|-
  
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|colspan=1 | <center> {{Message2
 
|colspan=1 | <center> {{Message2
 
|Width=100%
 
|Width=100%
|Type=Report
+
|Type=Roleplay
|Sender=Grante Le Monte
+
|Sender=Soren Navaar
|Recipients=Personal message to Nerta the Weaver
+
|Recipients=Everyone in Rivers
|Content=Priestess,
+
|Content=Soren laughed, a harsh bark, forced only to get the sound out. "No shame for you," he told her, a tired grin stretching across his face. He eased a hand up and undid the clasp on his cloak. It was in rough shape, but mostly intact in a deep purple. He passed it over to her and looked for her eyes. "At least you look good wearing it," he added. "Though you can have my cloak if you want to cover up your arms," he offered.
 +
 
 +
Shifting against the stone, Soren leaned against Nerta. "I know you're tougher than me anyway," he said with a nod toward the smoldering wolf.
  
It is a pleasant surprise to hear from you. It fares quite well, with Heen slowly regaining its population. Though what is slightly worrying is that despite closing down the Daishi temple here, it seems the faith still has a strong foothold here. In terms of needing anything, that would be what comes to mind first.
+
He sighed, closing his eyes and just enjoying the moment, how close she was. "You know, you never did give me permission to die. Have I ever betrayed you before?"
|Title=Duke of Land's End, Earl of Heen
+
|Title=Count of Seven Rivers
 
}}</center>
 
}}</center>
 
|-
 
|-
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|colspan=1 | <center> {{Message2
 
|colspan=1 | <center> {{Message2
 
|Width=100%
 
|Width=100%
|Type=Request
+
|Type=Roleplay
 
|Sender=Nerta the Weaver
 
|Sender=Nerta the Weaver
|Recipients=Personal message to Grante Le Monte
+
|Recipients=Everyone in Seven Rivers
|Content=A dusty desert town eh? What's it like? I'll not be there any time soon since I'm currently in Hopidrii...
+
|Content=A few deep breaths later and Nerta pushes herself to her feet and stretches. There's a lot of her to stretch so it takes a little while and gives Soren ample opportunity to admire her, ''attire''. She was used to oblique comments about her appearance, though this was the first time anyone had meant it as a compliment.
 +
 
 +
If the admission of his scrutiny made her self-conscious, she doesn't show it and instead stalks over to inspect his wounds. Prodding at the arm she frowns.
 +
 
 +
"These are pretty bad... we need to get you to a doctor. Might scar."
 +
 
 +
The offer of the deep purple cloak caked with mud does cause her to pause. Wandering the swamp had been a nightmare of mud, flies and wolves; but she hadn't needed to ''hide.'' Now he was offering, to hide her so they could return across the bridge. That... brought mixed feelings.
 +
 
 +
Really? ''Now'' you're feeling squeamish?" Her hands gesture all along her body. "I was covered in ''chitin''..."
 +
 
 +
The heated words are cut short by a sigh, and she tosses the cloak over a shoulder while leaning in close enough for her scent to mingle with that of the mud and blood. One hand stabs his chest, a few more tear her remaining silk shirt into a crude tourniquet.
 +
 
 +
"You're honourable, for a patrician; but you certainly got close to dying today. Didn't you?"
 +
 
 +
Puffing aside a stray hair she twists the silk into a cord and ties it, '''tightly''', around his arm. While the hand on his chest rises to tilt his chin up.
 +
 
 +
"That would be annoying. I almost like you..."
 +
 
 +
Despite the words, she smiles faintly and clicks her tongue. Probably, her tongue.  
 
|Title=[[Melhed/Foederati|Foederati]]
 
|Title=[[Melhed/Foederati|Foederati]]
 
}}</center>
 
}}</center>
 
|-
 
|-
  
 +
|-
 +
|colspan=1 | <center> {{Message2
 +
|Width=100%
 +
|Type=Roleplay
 +
|Sender=Tyler Thrice-Blessed
 +
|Recipients=Everyone in Seven Rivers
 +
|Content=The wolf was falling. The wounds sustained were far too much for even a beast that large. He quickly grasped Rin's hand and dragged himself on top of the beast as it tumbled over barely avoiding being crushed. As he stumbled his way off the beast he looked to Rin replying "huh well I'm not much of a wolfrider if we're being honest. I'd like to say I better at killing them but lately it's been more luck then skill keeping me alive I'm afraid. Thanks for save...again."
 +
 +
Tyler gestures to the other two having their own conversation. " Let's go gloat shall we? " Giving the dead wild one last kick he made his way over to both Soren and Nerta.
 +
 +
"Well that was certainly fun thanks for dealing with the small fry for us I took care of the big one so you don't mess those fancy clothes of yours too much." Glancing back at Rin " she helped a little" Tyler smiles obviously a jest.
 +
 +
"Well this has been fun and all I must be off soon. When I had my visions earlier there was something else I saw besides that monster stalking our trail. I saw Creasur walls fall. A sea of undead. I saw a man clearly a noble stand unflinching as an endless see of monsters swallowed him whole. I fear the necromancer may be making his move. If your travels take you that way be sure to send me a letter if I'm not a walking corpse by then."
 +
|Title=Adventurer
 +
}}</center>
 +
|-
  
 
|-
 
|-
! Restoration
+
|colspan=1 | <center> {{Message2
[[File:RomanTemple.png|200px]]
+
|Width=100%
 +
|Type=Roleplay
 +
|Sender=Soren Navaar
 +
|Recipients=Everyone in Rivers
 +
|Content="I was honestly more afraid of losing you," he admitted. "So I suppose 'almost' is a start. I've always liked you. You're a good person, Nerta, and I'm proud to call you friend."
 +
 
 +
Soren chuckled, despite the pain. "It'll take a lot more than that to get rid of me," he said, gesturing to his own beaten form as she lingered. Impressive wasn't the word to describe him. Maybe resilient? That would work. Slightly crazy? Possibly.
 +
 
 +
She was so close now that he wondered if she could hear his heartbeat pumping faster. Could she feel it? She had a hand on his chest. There was no way she would miss it. With his chin in another of her hands he couldn't break eye contact as their breaths mingled and sweat left a salty tang to the air. He remembered that she had once told him about patricians always wanting something, and he had tried to avoid making her feel that way with him. She was important to him, a friend, even more. But this close, he could only wonder one thing... Would she still be a friend if the words escaped?
 +
 
 +
"We just survived whatever crystal damned fate this swamp could throw at us." He reached out and found one of her hands, lacing his fingers with hers. "Are you going to just stare at me this close all day, or are you going to kiss me?"
 +
 
 +
As the words left his mouth he wondered if he would regret it. Would she do it? The moment froze as a thousand possibilities came to a collision point. Which one would make it first?
 +
|Title=Count of Seven Rivers
 +
}}</center>
 
|-
 
|-
  
Line 311: Line 1,079:
 
|Type=Roleplay
 
|Type=Roleplay
 
|Sender=Nerta the Weaver
 
|Sender=Nerta the Weaver
|Recipients=Everyone in Agyr
+
|Recipients=Everyone in Seven Rivers
|Content=Dropping a few more sacks of gold in the temple vault, Nerta signals for the rest of the Equities from the bank to drop the rest.  
+
|Content="You never did have good sense, but obviously the blood loss is worse than I thought. Let's get you out if here..."
 +
 
 +
The lacing fingers stop her from pulling away and that final question brings a smile.
 +
 
 +
"A kiss? And you probably want to survive too." Her tongue clicks, he can see it this time as she leans in just a bit closer. "So demanding."
  
Her Majesty certainly was, generous. The donation was almost enough for the final restoration of this old building.  
+
The kiss is hard, almost an assault, and she nips his lower lip. Yet as brief and sharp as it is, he does survive.
  
The libraries and labs had been refurbished years ago, but coaxing old Masters from exile had been tricky. Many of the alchemists, librarians and of course Augurs had turned up without prompting, but the disciples of Veber Klotz and his Factorium were no where to be seen.
+
In no small part thanks to Tyler and Rin joining them to critique their contributions. The crack about her clothes earns Tyler a laugh and a scraped handful of mud flung his way.
  
When they'd been lost, few tears were shed, and yet.... man's experiments had been as horrifying as they were effective. In this Age of Shadow such genius had it's potential.
+
"That's two giant wolves, Tyler. You're becoming an expert."
  
Or so the Old Man tried to convince the perpetually scowling woman.  
+
The news about Creasur dampens the mood.
  
"I don't care how brilliant the butcher was, he chopped up my people. Just so he could make crude copies."
+
"You do know what those visions mean, right? You're Augur Blooded. Maybe you always were, or maybe it's after that mess at the Seeping Giant."  
  
Arguing with her shadow, the woman steps out into the icy square across from the Eternal Flame only to smirk at the familiar figure walking up the road.  
+
Patting down Soren's bandages, Nerta runs a hand through her hair.
  
"Well, well... Still alive thrice-blessed fool?"
+
"The Dread Necromancer is a symptom of a larger problem. Ever since The Blight, Beluaterra has been dying. The Seeping Giant, it used to be the Sleeping Giant. All the sacred sites and loci used to be more vibrant and enduring. We've been trying to figure this out for years now, but it's been slow going. Maybe that's where you come in Tyler. The visions, the shield, it might be connected to that mess down south."
 
|Title=[[Melhed/Foederati|Foederati]]
 
|Title=[[Melhed/Foederati|Foederati]]
 
}}</center>
 
}}</center>
 
|-
 
|-
 +
 +
|-
 +
|colspan=1 | <center> {{Message2
 +
|Width=100%
 +
|Type=Roleplay
 +
|Sender=Rin the Rabbit
 +
|Recipients=Everyone in Seven Rivers
 +
|Content=Rin rolls her eyes as she listens to Tyler's jokes. "Next time you can scale the wolf yourself," she teases back, but he's already going on about visions. That was more than she signed up for. So were giant wolves, swamp adventures, slapping wolves in the face - she hoped she hadn't knocked out a tooth or something - and dealing with people who might recognize her for what she is. A thief. Her grin, more toothy than anticipated as she revealed a pair of sharp front teeth, and if her legwork was any indicator, a rabbit totem gave her her power.
 +
 +
Nerta's words threw her for a loop next. She was not good at adapting. In fact, if it weren't for the Calanars, she doubted she would even be free of her mountain. So she forced the shock down, but her mouth hung open just a little as Nerta spoke of The Plight, and Necrodancers, and Sweeping Giants, and did she have mud in her ears? She plucked at a bit of clean cloth on her shirt and pulled some from her ear. "This has been fun and all," she commented, "but I might be out of my league with dead fencers and giants. If any of you need a hand, I'm happy to help though," she with that light grin and a slight bounce to her movements. "Even if it's just keeping your Augur alive!"
 +
 +
The nervous laugh that she let slip at that moment definitely didn't give anything away. Nope.
 +
 +
"My name is Rin, my... Lady? Sister?" The Count was exhausted, and given the intimacy she had been fairly certain Nerta was a patrician too until she thought about her arms.
 +
|Title=Adventurer
 +
}}</center>
 +
|-
 +
 +
|-
 +
|colspan=1 | <center> {{Message2
 +
|Width=100%
 +
|Type=Roleplay
 +
|Sender=Soren Navaar
 +
|Recipients=Everyone in Rivers
 +
|Content=Soren felt left out. He also felt...panic? A good panic? He sat stunned, Nerta still holding his hand, touching his face, fiddling with her bandage work. Weren't spiders good at wrapping things up? He didn't voice that thought. His lower lip still stung as his three companions spoke of visions and far off threats, already moving on to the next fight. He shook his head, and using Nerta and the wall for support, he struggled to his feet, stopping only to pick up the wicked sword he had been using, the blade the beasts were drawn to, and sheathed it once more.
 +
 +
"I'm sure you'll be called on again Rin," he said, finally chiming into the conversation."Anyone capable of some of what I saw today would strike fear into many men and women alike. The creatures stand less of a chance."
 +
 +
Now that he was upright, he leaned, just noticeably into Nerta and tried not to laugh at what a pair they probably looked like. As she adjusted his bandage again, he was grinning at the foolish thoughts in his head, but slowly drew himself back to reality.
 +
 +
He cleared his throat and appeared to have collected himself, for now. "Tyler, my family history is tied to that of the Sophos of Nothoi. If you need an introduction for safe passage, say the word and I'll have a letter sent."
 +
|Title=Count of Seven Rivers
 +
}}</center>
 +
|-
 +
 +
|-
 +
|colspan=1 | <center> {{Message2
 +
|Width=100%
 +
|Type=Roleplay
 +
|Sender=Tyler Thrice-Blessed
 +
|Recipients=Everyone in Seven Rivers
 +
|Content=Tired hungry and dirty Tyler father's up his belongings before taking a more serious tone.  Augur blood giant wolves what a life we live in. I'll have to reach out to you in the future nerta should anymore visions happen. In the meantime I have received a letter from the emperor of the vales it seems he has a contact about to open a portal amdist the hordes of undead. A very familiar tale indeed. I will be Makeing  my way there to aid him now. If one of you happens to have a portal stone it would be a great help. If not your blades would beore then welcome as well. Farewell and good luck until then.
 +
|Title=Adventurer
 +
}}</center>
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 +
[[Category: Roleplay]]

Latest revision as of 01:30, 18 May 2022

Blackjaw.png
Magic
Request from Aibhlidhn Dubhaine
Message sent to Personal message to Nerta the Weaver
Lady Nerta,

The adventurer Deve has a Ring of Power of Agyrian origin for which he seeks 1,000 gold crowns. I already possess the Cruel Ring of Melhed which is part of the Crown Jewels so I'm seeking another to bear this ring in my stead.

The item is of sufficient power that the Crown will underwrite the entire cost if you are interested.
Aibhlidhn Dubhaine (Queen of Ar Agyr)
Request from Nerta the Weaver
Message sent to Personal message to Aibhlidhn
Your majesty, The Old Man would rather have the Cruel Ring, but I can certainly take this trinket if you need it stored safely.
Nerta the Weaver (Foederati)
Letter from Aibhlidhn Dubhaine
Message sent to Personal message to Nerta the Weaver
Lady Nerta, I think you'll be pleasantly surprised. The Ring in question exceeds even the power of the Crual Ring of Melhed and that is no small thing.
Aibhlidhn Dubhaine (Queen of Ar Agyr)
Letter from Nerta the Weaver
Message sent to Personal message to Aibhlidhn
Your majesty, I'm not much interested in power at the best of times, and the Old Man is more wrapped up in his past than anything else. But I can take it.
Nerta the Weaver (Foederati)
Letter from Aibhlidhn Dubhaine
Message sent to Personal message to Nerta the Weaver, Deve the Adventurer
Master Deve,

Lady Nerta would indeed be interested in caring for the Ring and I'll underwrite her purchase as this is a matter of importance to the Crown.

There's a horde in Bil Havil I'm keeping an eye on so how would you feel about meeting in Agyr? That way I can stay close to the border.
Aibhlidhn Dubhaine (Queen of Ar Agyr)
Letter from Nerta the Weaver
Message sent to Personal message to Aibhlidhn
I just arrived in Agyr. I'll be at the temple to the Old Gods by the old Senate house.
Nerta the Weaver (Foederati)
Letter from Aibhlidhn Dubhaine
Message sent to Personal message to Nerta the Weaver
Lady Nerta, My own interest in power is the defence of the realm and of humanity. Hence why I'm generally cautious in my use of the tools available to me. However I think it's about time we had a second noble schooled in the mystic arts and I've long wondered if you might be suited to such study.
Aibhlidhn Dubhaine (Queen of Ar Agyr)
Letter from Nerta the Weaver
Message sent to Personal message to Aibhlidhn
Your majesty,

Is funny. Sound like a Dalesman.

OOC: most amusing. Though the ever grumpy Nerta will harumph about it. What would mystic training even mean?
Nerta the Weaver (Foederati)
Letter from Aibhlidhn Dubhaine
Message sent to Personal message to Nerta the Weaver
Lady Nerta, Mystic training would primarily consist of scroll work but could include other elements if you wish.
Aibhlidhn Dubhaine (Queen of Ar Agyr)
Trade Offer

Deve traded you the Holy Band of Ar Agyr

Letter from Nerta the Weaver
Message sent to Personal message to Deve
Quite the find lad. What's the story behind getting it?
Nerta the Weaver (Foederati)
Letter from Deve
Message sent to Personal message to Nerta the Weaver
Lady Nerta, I had to journey south to the fallen kingdoms to find the item. I heard a rumour about the item while I was down there last time. I wonder why an item related to our realm was hidden in the rubbles of the fallen kingdoms. May the gods are playing tricks again.
Deve (Adventurer)
Letter from Nerta the Weaver
Message sent to Personal message to Deve
Wrestled it from the grip of the Dread Necromancer did you? That's good, but ominous. What are they up to with such powerful artifacts.... Have you spent much time hunting monsters then? You'll find the bird loving sage around here...
Nerta the Weaver (Foederati)
Letter from Deve
Message sent to Personal message to Nerta the Weaver
I've visited collapsed cities, collapsed temples, and ruined palaces of fallen kingdoms and theocracies. You usually find a lot of skulls and bones. Sometimes lurking monsters. Sometimes walking bones which you want to avoid as they seek to more bones, preferably newer ones.
Deve (Adventurer)
Letter from Nerta the Weaver
Message sent to Personal message to Deve
Ahhh more splunking than fighting. See anything interesting? Besides this of course
Nerta the Weaver (Foederati)
Restoration

RomanTemple.png

Roleplay from Nerta the Weaver
Message sent to Everyone in Agyr
Dropping a few more sacks of gold in the temple vault, Nerta signals for the rest of the Equities from the bank to drop the rest.

Her Majesty certainly was, generous. The donation was almost enough for the final restoration of this old building.

The libraries and labs had been refurbished years ago, but coaxing old Masters from exile had been tricky. Many of the alchemists, librarians and of course Augurs had turned up without prompting, but the disciples of Veber Klotz and his Factorium were no where to be seen.

When they'd been lost, few tears were shed, and yet.... man's experiments had been as horrifying as they were effective. In this Age of Shadow such genius had it's potential.

Or so the Old Man tried to convince the perpetually scowling woman.

"I don't care how brilliant the butcher was, he chopped up my people. Just so he could make crude copies."

Arguing with her shadow, the woman steps out into the icy square across from the Eternal Flame only to smirk at the familiar figure walking up the road.

"Well, well... Still alive thrice-blessed fool?"
Nerta the Weaver (Foederati)
Roleplay from Tyler Thrice-Blessed
Message sent to Everyone in Agyr
Tyler wanderers his way down the street admitting all the sites and sounds of this city so far away from his own home. Ever since his encounter with the mysterious wolf he's had an urge to travel to the very end of the continent. Some force urging his mind and body to make all haste.

Could it be the eternal flame he was sent here for? Perhaps another round of meditation and reflection as he did with the seeping giant.

Little did he know the reason for his arrival was about to call him a fool.

Tyler snapped out of his thoughts as the sounds of a familiar preistess echos in his ear.

"Aye I'm still alive preistess though to be honest I was almost food for that mighty tree you sent me to. Seems our paths cross again and once again it seems this was the gods doing. Cant rightly say why we crossed paths again perhaps you have some idea. When you have time perhaps we can talk I have quite the story to share.
Tyler Thrice-Blessed (Adventurer)
Roleplay from Nerta the Weaver
Message sent to Everyone in Agyr
"Had some trouble with the wards did you?"

Eying him critically she walks across the square to stand in the shadow of the Eternal Fire.

"Did you get the blessing you sought?"
Nerta the Weaver (Foederati)
Roleplay from Tyler Thrice-Blessed
Message sent to Everyone in Agyr
Tyler nodded at the preistess removing the shield from his back and pointing to the image of a hinge. The hinge is unchanged from the last time he showed off his prized possession but whats different is there is now a fercious wolf with it's jaws held open as I'f trying to bite down and crush the hinge between it's jaws.

"I found this on my shield upon waking up from a nasty fight with a strange wolf twice my size and made of thick roots. I suspect your wolf god decided to see if I was worthy of living." Tyler summarize the fight with the wolf ( I can repost the old rp if Bob decides he wants to get involved in the rp)

" Since then I have had the urge to head to the far shores agyr. Sometimes I swear I can see the same wolf speaking to me in my dreams urging me on demanding I set out immediately. Probably an overactive imagination I thought. But once again I arrive and find out paths cross and I'm not so sure it's my imagination anymore. Is it unusual to have one of your gods speak to a mortal? Even fulcrum has never tried to speak directly to me certainly he does not invade my dreams. And the dreams are only getting more intense. Some nights I choose not to sleep rather then risk having another dream. Im here hoping you'll tell me I'm simply losing my mind. But I doupt my luck will hold in that regard
Tyler Thrice-Blessed (Adventurer)
Roleplay from Nerta the Weaver
Message sent to Everyone in Agyr
"So, you got the attention of the Gods... I'm sorry."

Shadows dance as the woman looks away.

"You're not alone in this. Jacinda, my... friend was drawn here by the Wolf Lord two years ago. We've been on a fool quest to save the world ever since." Bob, may as well be an avatar of the hunt at this point. Grante was personally saved by the Trickster, who also visited Ra of Thalmarkin on the road. I hear they played chess..."

Scrubbing her face the woman slips into her practiced scowl.

"All while I have the attention of the Dark Mistress and her agent, the Old Man."

The Eternal Fire crackles in the silence.

"Now that you're here the dreams should fade, for a time. Eventually they will call upon you again, and send you to work on something of significance. In the mean time, some of the Augurs here at the temple can train you on how to interpret prophetic dreams, and sleep despite them."

"I know it's a lot to take in so... if you want to just kill some things: I've been summoned to Seven Rivers, by mundane letter, to help Soren handle some trouble down in the Sick."

​​​​​​​"Welcome to the faith, even if you've not chosen it, it's chosen you."
Nerta the Weaver (Foederati)
Roleplay from Tyler Thrice-Blessed
Message sent to Everyone in Agyr
Tyler nodded at the preistess removing the shield from his back and pointing to the image of a hinge. The hinge is unchanged from the last time he showed off his prized possession but whats different is there is now a fercious wolf with it's jaws held open as I'f trying to bite down and crush the hinge between it's jaws.

"I found this on my shield upon waking up from a nasty fight with a strange wolf twice my size and made of thick roots. I suspect your wolf god decided to see if I was worthy of living." Tyler summarize the fight with the wolf ( I can repost the old rp if Bob decides he wants to get involved in the rp)

" Since then I have had the urge to head to the far shores agyr. Sometimes I swear I can see the same wolf speaking to me in my dreams urging me on demanding I set out immediately. Probably an overactive imagination I thought. But once again I arrive and find out paths cross and I'm not so sure it's my imagination anymore. Is it unusual to have one of your gods speak to a mortal? Even fulcrum has never tried to speak directly to me certainly he does not invade my dreams. And the dreams are only getting more intense. Some nights I choose not to sleep rather then risk having another dream. Im here hoping you'll tell me I'm simply losing my mind. But I doupt my luck will hold in that regard
Tyler Thrice-Blessed (Adventurer)
House Keeping
Request from Nerta the Weaver
Message sent to Personal message to each member of the Old Gods
How fares? I'm curious if you need anything, or have any goals in mind for the future.
Nerta the Weaver (Foederati)
Report from Anyte Luitolf
Message sent to Personal message to Nerta the Weaver
Good Priestess Nerta,

I have been doing a lot of thinking lately, and the more I see in noble life the more it sickens me. It is nothing but people calling each other daimon worshipers without justification, and senseless, ages old hate.

I have considered dawning the robes in service to my Dark Mistress in a more direct way. What are your thoughts on this? Where would I be useful if I did so? What would the responsibilities be?
Anyte Luitolf (Duchess of the Bathory)
Request from Nerta the Weaver
Message sent to Personal message to Anyte Luitolf
Being a Guardian doesn't change the hatred and lies of Patricians, it just means you spend more time with the Plebeians. They're more honest, for the most part. That said, I've seen your limp. You probably won't be on the front lines. So if you want to be a Guardian it'll be up to you to decide what that even means. How can you help people? What speaks to you?
Nerta the Weaver (Foederati)
Grant Le Monte
Report from Grante Le Monte
Message sent to Personal message to Nerta the Weaver
Priestess, It is a pleasant surprise to hear from you. It fares quite well, with Heen slowly regaining its population. Though what is slightly worrying is that despite closing down the Daishi temple here, it seems the faith still has a strong foothold here. In terms of needing anything, that would be what comes to mind first.
Grante Le Monte (Duke of Land's End, Earl of Heen)
Request from Nerta the Weaver
Message sent to Personal message to Grante Le Monte
A dusty desert town eh? What's it like? I'll not be there any time soon since I'm currently in Hopidrii...
Nerta the Weaver (Foederati)
Report from Grante Le Monte
Message sent to Personal message to Nerta the Weaver
A town for now, but soon it will be the small city that lights the way to those lost in the desert and displaced by the necromancers of the south. And understandable. I believe it has been tough in Irondale to secure a priest for our realm. I have even considered it once or twice, but I am needed at the helm of our military still.
Grante Le Monte (Duke of Land's End, Earl of Heen)
Request from Nerta the Weaver
Message sent to Personal message to Grante Le Monte
Each finds their own way, and really given your background fighting with the army is probably your calling. Perhaps you'd like some sort of official title to that end?
Nerta the Weaver (Foederati)
Felix
Request from Nerta the Weaver
Message sent to Everyone in the Old Gods
Welcome Felix, What brings you to the temple, monster killing or something else?
Nerta the Weaver (Foederati)
Letter from Felix the Fickle
Message sent to Everyone in the Old Gods
I was originally already part of the sanctum. However, a illness came to me which put me out of commission for a said bit of time. Now that I gave recovered I wish to rejoin. These continuing where I left monster killing and such others.
Felix the Fickle (Adventurer)
Soren Navaar
Report from Soren Navaar
Message sent to Personal message to Nerta the Weaver
Things are well enough.

When I found that old Melite ring I sent you, I had a run in with some wolves in The Sick. one of them, I could have sworn was the legendary Blackjaw itself. I've been contemplating a hunt these days to go and find it, and if I'm lucky, I'll get some clues as to what causes the undead to spawn there so frequently. Seven Rivers has always attracted necromancers and I have the scrolls to prove it.

Care to go for a hunt?
Soren Navaar (Count of Seven Rivers)
Black Jaw's Conquest

BlackJaw.png

Roleplay from Nerta the Weaver
Message sent to Everyone in Seven Rivers
Spear slung across her shoulders, Nerta approaches the Shieldborn Manseas dawn breaks. Time to hunt.
Nerta the Weaver (Foederati)
Roleplay from Tyler Thrice-Blessed
Message sent to Everyone in Seven Rivers
Tyler looked around idly. At first glance he saw very little different then any other region. However he's sure the preistess is here for more then mundane monster hunting. As he was making his way back to turn in another 14 kobold heads for his reward he spots the priestess readying for a hunt " glad to see you made it in one piece. I have been slaughtering the monsters here a dozen at a time I almost dare say there won't be much left for you to kill. Unless your here for more then kobolds or undead. Eaither way I'd hardly be an adventurer worth my salt if I did not join you. What are we off to kill today?"
Tyler Thrice-Blessed (Adventurer)
Roleplay from Soren Navaar
Message sent to Everyone in Rivers
Around the Shieldborn Manse was a handful of guards fussing about. Soren's Captain, Oldred, was assuring them that the lord would be fine on his own regardless of their many, many concerns. He noted the clear skies, and gestured to the Sennex speaking with what he assumed was an adventurer. He rolled his eyes, but paid the group no mind as a man with dark hair and gray eyes made his way from the garrison. Soren Navaar, stood tall, and despite his slim figure, his clothes hid muscles well trained for combat. A spear on his back matched Nerta's, but he also carried a sword on his hip. A bow would have been too cumbersome with the pack of supplies for the road.

The Count made his way across the main road and with a smile waved a hand toward Nerta. "I see you've got a friend today," he commented, acknowledging Tyler with a nod. "Today, we'll cross the bridge into the swampland of Black Jaw's Conquest. The last time I was in there, I had a run in with a wolf the size of five regular wolves with black fur and golden eyes that seemed to look into my very soul. I got away, but I had just fought off a dozen of its pack. Now I want to finish the job." Looking between the pair, he gestured over to the garrison once more. "If either of you need supplies, arrows, an extra knife, go get them," he said, specifically casting his gaze on the adventurer. He didn't know what the man carried with him in his gear, but Soren had funding the man didn't.

The grind and squeal of metal sounded as the gate at the end of the stone bridge slowly pulled open. Two heavy wooden doors splitting apart from each other to allow their party through. Soren grinned, energized at the prospect of the hunt ahead, and turned his attention back to Nerta. "How've you been?" he asked, innocently enough. It felt as though the Sennex had been avoiding him for a while, the only question was the occasional letters. He hoped they hadn't all been from Aldo, though he held in the laugh that it was likely.
Soren Navaar (Count of Seven Rivers)
Roleplay from Nerta the Weaver
Message sent to Everyone in Seven Rivers
Nerta's glittering eyes sweep from the adventurer to the count. After a long pause she lets the spear slip from her shoulders.

"Soren Silver Hawk and Tyler Thrice-Blessed on a hunt for a big wolf in the swampy grounds of Black Jaw's Conquest."

The woman smirks and strides past the pair to the wagon of supplies.

"Balin will be sorry he missed the fun." 

Sorting through what items there were, Nerta pointedly ignores Soren's question for the first few moments and instead speaks with Tyler. 

"Though this region seems peaceful it has been the target of multiple attacks by the Dread Necromancer. Even Bob has struggled to throw them back into the sea. Be alert and perhaps you'll be able to put those new visions to the test." 

The woman's pivot away from Tyler, to pack a few extra knives, brings her dangerously close to the count. Dangerous for him anyway. They were almost close enough to embrace, but she didn't seem to bothered by it.

"I've been fine, Soren. Busy helping people, like Tyler there. The Old Man read some of your letters," pausing she idly scratches her chin, "I deciphered the pictures eventually. You were obviously having fun with the sketch pad."
Nerta the Weaver (Foederati)
Roleplay from Tyler Thrice-Blessed
Message sent to Everyone in Seven Rivers
Tyler could feel the tension between the two something was clearly going on but it was none of his business and decided it was best to move on. He looks to the well dressed person before him.

" I don't imagine you have much I will need. My dagger and my shield will be enough to get me through. Believe it or not I had my own run in with a giant wolf not long ago. Thing came out of the ground it was made of thick roots and vines larger the our forearms combined. Nasty fight barely made it out in one piece. Guess you get what you get when you seek out the wolf gods attention. Regardless you have the closest thing to an expert when it comes to fighting oversized wolves. And if this one actually bleeds it might involve alot less luck on my part this time I hope . "

Tyler goes his best to remain stoic. He downplayed the fight but in reality the though of fighting another giant beast had him on edge. The last one nearly bit him in half. He slowly slips into his own thoughts as he takes his place behind the man getting ready to follow them on their journey.
Tyler Thrice-Blessed (Adventurer)
Roleplay from Soren Navaar
Message sent to Everyone in Rivers
Soren could never help giving Nerta a smile. "I'm glad you deciphered them," he said, a little distance in the conversation created by time. "I can't regale you with stories all of the time, so now you can take them with you for when you have a moment." So he said, but they both knew how much she hated relying on the Old Man. He did it for her. "I bet Balin is doing well. I'll have to invite him on the next hunt."

He didn't say anything about the plant wolf, but nodded in approval of the adventurer's skills. Following up on Nerta's words, he added. "I can't say I saw it bleed, but I felt it when my sword connected. It wasn't a hallucination. I was forced to flee with an opening though. It had too many other wolves with it. You'll know it when you see it. A wolf unlike any size you've seen before with black fur and golden eyes. It matches the legend of Blackjaw from this region."

Seeing the pair were ready, Soren started first toward the gate. The great stone bridge connected from the Shieldborn Manse arching up over the river and out to their destination. The heavy sounds of the gate closing behind them signaled they were on their own from that point forward. Turning his head, the Count took a moment to appreciate the view down the river as they walked. Soon they would reach lands thick with mud and sinkholes, where a town was still slowly being swallowed by the earth, and where a strange and mythical wolf made its home. Nerta would probably roll her eyes if he put it to song now, but maybe later.
Soren Navaar (Count of Seven Rivers)
Roleplay from Nerta the Weaver
Message sent to Everyone in Seven Rivers
If the tension bothered Nerta, she gave no sign.

"A wolf hunt, is a wolf hunt. Tyler's experience with the sentry at the Seeping Giant will no doubt prove helpful. Though when we're in the fight Soren, just stab it this time."   Muttering to herself about foolish bards, Nerta heads deeper into the swamp with the pair. They make good time at first but, Nerta was originally from the Roof of the World and isn't familiar with such boggy ground. An hour in, and the woman is struggling to drag her mud caked cloak out of another tangled tree, only to misstep and sink up to her thighs. 

"Trickster curses..." Snarling in frustration at the God of travel delay. "I guess you didn't have a vision about that little sink hole, Tyler?" 

Struggles only encourage the soft ground to swallow Nerta, soaking her clothes from the waist down in icy water. Eventually she's forced to grab both Tyler and Soren for help, and her cloak doesn't make it. 

Stripped of her customary covering, the woman avoids Tyler's gaze and busies herself with everything else imaginable. The usual grumpy self confidence has been replaced with hunched unease while she balances with one hand against Soren, and a second holding her spear to the side. A third runs through her hair. A fourth tugs her blue silk shirt up from the clinging trousers, while the fifth and sixth try in vain to scrape mud.

"So," Nerta's tone is level, but with obvious tension, "Now you know why I wear a cloak."  

Finally she meets the thrice-blessed adventurer's gaze.

"We going to have a problem?"
Nerta the Weaver (Foederati)
Roleplay from Tyler Thrice-Blessed
Message sent to Everyone in Seven Rivers
The bugs were horrendous. There's a reason Tyler doesn't visit swamps fighting even normal monsters in these conditions much less a wolf the size of a peasent hut. Tyler hardly noticed at first as the preistess sunk into the mudd. Tyler nearly loses his own balance as the priestess uses him for support to get out of the mud. After a brief moment of disbelief Tyler begins to physically count on his hands while looking at the preistess and her extra appendages. After a moment Tyler gives a stern and serious look at the preistess saying nothing for a few moments before speaking.

" Let me guess you asked the gods to give you a hand and they took it literally? You would think with all that extra support you could keep yourself upright in a bit of mud." Tyler's voice was clearly surprised but still friendly and maybe a little sarcastic.

" Relax a little your extra arms don't bother me any. Though the fact you don't use more then one weapon is a bit disappointing. You could be the world's first dual wielding spear user."

Tyler looks as of he's about to speak again when suddenly he stops clutching his head as a piercing howl echos through his head. He looks to his two companions as he falls to his knees. The two seem unfazed and perhaps a little confused. The howling becomes louder and more high pitched. He has what feels like a wakening dream as images flash before his mind. Leaving the town and heading for the swamp and their whole journey up until moments before he fell to the ground. But he was not seeing it through his own eyes but something else's. Something that has been following them this entire time. Something big and something hungry. The howling stops and pain starts to subside. He only has the wits to get out a few words barely a whisper hoping someone can hear him. " Something is following us and I don't think it's friendly. Ready yourselves."
Tyler Thrice-Blessed (Adventurer)
Roleplay from Rin the Rabbit
Message sent to Everyone in Rivers
The reeds and bushes rustled. The sounds of mud squelching beneath boots from beyond them came first, and then through them erupted a young woman. "Wolf!" she shouted at the group. "Wolf! Wolf! Wolf!" Her feet sliding out from under a step, the woman fell into the mud and slid along the ground to a stop just before the group. Taking barely a moment to catch her breath she scrambled to her feet, almost falling back down once more in the process, caught by the helping hand of the Count. A small mask covered the lower half of her face. Rin froze as her head swiveled around like an alert sentry searching for the noise it heard. "Left. No, right. It's gonna come from the right!" A howl cried out from behind them and a small, reddish wolf poked its head in their direction. "It has friends!" The daggers at her hips were useless, but if she found a tree and avoided the big one...
Rin the Rabbit (Adventurer)
Roleplay from Soren Navaar
Message sent to Everyone in Rivers
From the lack of an initial reaction, and Nerta using Soren for support, it was clear this was not his first time seeing Nerta without her cloak, though he had shifted his sword ever so slightly in the event Tyler turned on her. He was one of the continent's better swordsmen if the academy instructors were anything to gauge against. Before he could make his own comment though he tensed. Something... Then Tyler fell.

Confusion and chaos. A new adventurer, Tyler collapsed, and Nerta still struggling to shake off the mud. Dammit! he cursed in his head. He reaches over Rin and pulls Tyler to his feet by his cloak. "This is a terrible place for a fight. The old village isn't far from here," he told the group as he pulled his spear from his back. Eyes focused on the ground, he stepped past everyone and jabbed the butt of his spear into firm earth. "Follow me, and walk where I do," he told them as he started at a quick pace, guiding the group, more than once he reached back and pulled the skittish newcomer along, making sure she didn't bolt to her death. Every few steps he sticks the ground with the spear once, maybe twice, watching how the earth tried to eat it each time, determining whether it was safe to walk there.

The thunderous howls grew louder as they grew in size and number. He saw the stones before they hit them, the remnants of the old road, and suddenly they had firm footing again. A half-collapsed tower loomed over them around the trees outside the village, tilted as its materials returned to the earth that birthed them. The town wasn't in much better shape, but it would do. The cacophony of wolves was endless. Was the whole swamp one pack?

Guiding them to the tower, Soren pushed open the door and pointed for Rin to go inside. "Use your bow," he ordered, hoping she was a better shot than he was expecting. He closed the door behind her and hoped she would survive. Flashing a grin to Nerta his eyes moved to the gray swamp, and then to the back of the wolf pack where the dire wolf stood waiting, with golden eyes and black fur unlike the reddish swamp wolves. "Might as well give you one last chorus, right?" he asked with a laugh.

"Halfway between the black and gray
Is no place for a life to waste away
I'll take the road with all the sta~a~akes,"
He sang, mentally readying himself for the attacks that would come as the pack circled and closed in.
Soren Navaar (Count of Seven Rivers)
Roleplay from Tyler Thrice-Blessed
Message sent to Everyone in Seven Rivers
Tyler quickly shook off his daze whatever warning or vision he had seemed to pass. Just as he bagan to get his wits about him he was roughly yanked to his feet. As they began running he noticed the panicking adventurer another bow or blade never hurt. As Soren leads them through the swamplands Tyler begins to formulate a plan of attack. It's clear his weapon while a powerful unique artifact was still a dagger not the best weapon for a regular sized wolf much less one several times larger. He would need to find a different approach then a head on fight. He could rely on his companions and there much longer spears for the reach neccasaary to effectively fight such a beast head on. He on the other hand had a different idea.

As Soren led them closer and closer to the old village Tyler took to opportunity to slip away. He should stop and let them what he plans to do but there was just no time for conversation as the howling becomes louder and from more directions. He quickly veererd just off course just before they broke the tree line from the swamp to the old village he threw himself into a smaller patch of mud covering most of his body in an attempt to cover his scent. Then he scanned the tree line. He needed a position where he could be concealed from the horde of wolves until he was ready to strike. He spotted a thick tree with many heavy branches. A few of the branches looked a little dried and dead but only near the top.


As Tyler reaches the tree he digs through his pouch hanging from his belt and begins throwing many small metal spikes called caltrops around the base of the tree. Certainly it won't kill any of the wolves but they might think twice about hanging around the base of it.

Just as Tyler finishes his ascent to the middle of the tree he spots it. A mighty wolf eyes yellow as the sun. And with him more wolves then he can count. And most of them gather just Infront of his hiding spot amoung the trees. He spots Soren as he ushers the young adventurer to the old tower and returns his gaze to that massive beast. He can only hope that the priestess or her friend can see him peeking out from thick foliage just behind the giant monster they are about to face. He places his finger upon his lips as he stares in there direction. Right now he can do nothing. Not without a distraction. Here's hoping his companions can provide exactly that.
Tyler Thrice-Blessed (Adventurer)
Roleplay from Nerta the Weaver
Message sent to Everyone in Seven Rivers
"Thrice-Blessed comedian, is it?"

The relieved and amused woman had her many hands full, so when Tyler drops to the muck it's up to Soren to help. Not that he had much chance when the panicked young woman skids to a stop among the trio. Nerta's surprise doesn't last for long, and she settles into a wide stance to scan the marshy ground where the new arrival had pointed. Freed of the cloak, the nimble Nerta acts as vanguard while the count leads them through the bog and into the crumbling remains of the old village. 

"This place isn't much better for a fight, Soren." A howl echoes, "Especially with numbers like that."

As the bard breaks into song, a crooked smile sneaks onto her face. No hood to hide behind now.

"Did you choose this tower for the archer, or for your final performance?"

Before Soren could respond the audience arrived. The mangy things were near starved. With patchy brown fur highlighting sleek muscles and the angular bones underneath. The first of the beasts hurls itself at the door in a mad dash only to catch a sweep of Nerta's spear across one flank. As the thing pivots and snarls to earn a dagger in the eye while another flashes through the open door into the haunch of a second beast. 

"Because I'm not ready for your finale, and you don't have my permission to die."

Grinning as she springs from her crouch, Nerta fights like no one else. Balancing fluidly from foot to hand, from door jam to floor, her many hands are a blur of motion that sees her twist like a tree. Like a whirlwind of death that stabs, strikes and dodges the first wave of beasts. She even catches herself when a bit of stray mud from her trousers threatens to toss her into the wall of the tower. Puffing aside stray hair she casts a glance up as the archer makes a clean shot, saving Nerta from a toothy necklace. 

"I like her..."

Yet though the pawns might have been sacrificed, where were the rest of the pieces?  
Nerta the Weaver (Foederati)
Roleplay from Rin the Rabbit
Message sent to Everyone in Seven Rivers
From the tower window came a cry. "Two more from behind the tower." In a one two beat, the thwip of two arrows zip-lined from the tower and the first wolf slumped and skidded to a halt as the second took it in its shoulder and kept charging. The next round of wolves were larger and significantly healthier. The runts knew they hadn't stood a chance and scattered, so Rin focused her fire on one then another, hoping to bring them down quickly. One. Two. Three. These wolves were soaking up arrows with heavy muscle. She got the throat of one and it even tried to snap its jaws in Soren's direction one last time before it collapsed.

She watched as Soren rounded on the next one, his own spear dancing. It was a sight to behold, the strange woman and the noble seemed to be in tune with each others movements. As the woman danced around, the man drove his spear into a beast, and when he was on defense, she picked right up where he left off.

Thwip.
Thwip.
Thwip.
...

Nothing?

"I'm out of arrows!" Rin looked around. The patter of another wolf came around the tower again and she panicked. It was bigger than any so far. Left. Right. The other adventurer was stuck in a tree, the big wolf looked on, looming over the victims it watched, waiting for exhaustion to set in. Next came the throwing knives. She had one shot she could take, did she dare with the others around?
Rin the Rabbit (Adventurer)
Roleplay from Soren Navaar
Message sent to Everyone in Rivers
Soren moved easily with Nerta, the two neved once colliding as they kept the wolves pushed back. This may not be so bad, he thought as the tip of the spear found flesh. He twisted and drove the tip in deeper and with a jerk extricated the butt straight into another wolf's snout.

Two more of the larger wolves came at them, one bearing down on the priestess. She blocked only to hear the cry from the tower that the adventurer was out of arrows. Both front paws threatened to push her down into the muck as the spear kept the beast at bay. The other charged Soren. He stepped back as the beast's jaws snapped at air. Instead of protecting himself he flipped the spear and drove it into the belly of Nerta's attacker. "You don't get to die on me either," he told her, with a grin. "I've got at least one more song for you," he teased as he pressed his spear into one of her free hands and drew the sword at his hip. Was he crazy, or did he get a small smile in return? "And maybe a real dance," he added as he brought the sword down on the wolf that had come for him.

The big wolf, Blackjaw itself stands on high alert, watching, waiting. It seemed aware of the nearby adventurer, offering a low hum of a growl the whole time it was near. Slowly, it turned its attention toward Tyler, smelling more human in the tree nearby. The first step was immediately halted by a yelp as it stepped on the caltrops scattered below. The growl went from hum to a battlecry. If it could give a look, this one said -

Blackjaw's head whipped around toward Nerta and Soren as Tyler got the distraction he needed. Focusing on the man's sword, a thing that partially looked like the smith had used crude metals hastily melted into a blade, and constantly giving off a feeling of something wrong. That sword was back. It knew it. The beast crouched and prepared to join the fight itself.
Soren Navaar (Count of Seven Rivers)
Roleplay from Tyler Thrice-Blessed
Message sent to Everyone in Seven Rivers
A single branch. That's all it took to get the wolfs attention. It seemed sturdy enough to grab onto for support but almost immediately snapped I'm half when he reached out to grab it. The wolf bright eyes met his and for just a moment it seemed it was going to snap the very tree he stood in in half. He saw the irritation turn to bloodlust in the beasts eyes when it stumbled into his little trap. The only problem now was the beast knew exactly where he was. Luckily the wolf attention snapped to his two companions. Well if he was going to make a move it needed to be now.

Tyler tested the strength of the branch he stood on. It seemed sturdy enough though if he's wrong he will be too dead for it to matter. He took a long deep breath and steadied his nerves. And then he two quick steps as far out as he dared be on the branch and leaped from the top of it.

He had only one thought as he plummeted his dagger held firmly in both hands towards the massive wolfs back. Please don't miss.

​​​​​​The daggers pierces the wolfs back leg from the base of the tail and the weight of Tyler's body dragged the blade down nearly a foot before the flesh held the blade firmly in place. The wolf let out a defending howl causing Tyler's ears to ring nearly making him lose his grip on the blade. The wolf began to flail violently in an attempt to shake off his attacker which unfortunately for Tyler was working inch by inch he could see the dagger sliding from the wound and when he finally got dislodged he would be falling into the middle of a waiting and hungry pack. All he could do now was hold on and see what happens next.
Tyler Thrice-Blessed (Adventurer)
Roleplay from Nerta the Weaver
Message sent to Everyone in Seven Rivers
The whirling dance of blades is a far cry better than what The Sun in Iron & Gold managed during the Equinox Masquerade. Weaving and ducking around the more stable Soren, the woman spares him another fleeting smile as he strikes down a beast inches from snapping at her leg.

"A real dance?" Wolf blood splashes across an arm. "What's more real than death."

Bracing the second spear to form a crude pike wall, the woman's glittering eyes are drawn away from Blackjaw and toward the twisted slag of a blade in Soren's hand.

"Crystal Cursed! What is that?"

Soren's response is cut off by the piercing howl of the huge wolf. Tyler had made his move and now the pack was closing in.

"I hope it cuts better than it looks or else Tyler's going to be consecrated in his own blood."

Nerta's skittering run toward the pack brings the taste of musk and blood. She adds to the bounty with a slash of Soren's spear, but there were a dozen yet, and even she couldn't get eyes on the back of her head. She needed an edge though, and reaches for a Graft. The pain is sharp, like claws tearing through her darkening skin. She manages a convulsing stab into a second beast, but the shuddering hiss of pain pins her in place while glossy chitin hardens around her.
Nerta the Weaver (Foederati)
Roleplay from Soren Navaar
Message sent to Everyone in Rivers
Like her bare arms, this was not the first time Soren had seen this, but seeing her vulnerable... Soren glanced between Tyler and Nerta and he made his choice without a second thought. A dark shadow hung over Soren as he took the twisted weapon and, surprisingly, he carved through the first wolf like parchment. It looked like twisted and scarred metal, but it held what he thought was an unmatched edge. A master swordsman in his own right, he weaved a defense around Nerta.The wolves growled and started circling, adopting a pattern where they found a way to close in and back out, testing his reactions. The next one to attack tried to dart in from behind, but Soren went low and around Nerta, crippling the creature as it's leg cracked from the impact of the sword. The rest of the circle spread out as the next strike ended the attacking wolf.

The sound of another yelp caught everyone's attention, even the other wolves as Soren turned to see Rin struggling with one of the wolves. Out of arrows she had decided to leave the tower and pounce with her own weapons. "Watch yourself, girl!" Soren yelled to her. "Help Tyler if you can!"

Soren took the opportunity to attack another wolf, hoping to hold them long enough for Nerta to finish her transformation. The shadow over him seemed to revel in the chaos though, as he reached his next target. Dodging back a half step, his arm shot forward and tugged the wolf forward by the scruff of the neck and pulled it straight into the blade.
Soren Navaar (Count of Seven Rivers)
Roleplay from Rin the Rabbit
Message sent to Everyone in Seven Rivers
It had seemed like a good idea at the time, but now, as she plummeted down towards an unsuspecting wolf, Rin regretted her decision, not that she had long to. Crashing down with daggers on top of the wolf, she drove the blades into its neck and then leapt free with a fluid movement. The wolf growled and tried to give one last strike in its death throes, and she was forced off of her feet.

Soren called out to her as she managed to push the beast away, and she suppressed the growl. No good came from insulting nobles. "My name is Rin, not girl," she shouted back.

Unusually quick on her feet, she bounded across the chosen battlefield much like a rabbit would to escape its predators, right up until another large wolf blocked her path and forced her to twist aside to avoid its strike. She hit the ground and immediately found herself set upon by her attacker, but scrappy could just as well be her name in that moment. Grabbing its paws, she gained leverage and rapidly pummeled her feet into the belly of the large wolf, delighting as it struggled to go free. One last powerful kick sent it staggering back as she tucked her legs back and shot them out to leap back to her feet. The wolf started forward again, but Rin was unfazed as she backhanded the creature in the snout.

"No!" She shouted at it, but it growled in return. The second slap got a whimper, but it was the third one where the wolf finally backed down. It was debating whether or not to slink off when Rin hopped on its back. "Like the wolves of old, you're mine now." The beast didn't put up a fight as she rode the large wolf towards Tyler.

Blackjaw bucked and kicked, spinning once in a while to try and snap at Tyler, only causing the daggers to slice further into the flesh, as it rampaged once more in a vicious cycle. Rin had to admit she was impressed the man had held on as her wolf trotted up almost beneath them without resistance. Pulling a rope from her belt with a claw on the end, she swung it up and hooked it in place. The beast roared again as she scrambled up, leaving the wolf to escape. She reached out and offered Tyler a hand pull him back up. "Maybe don't try to take the big one alone," she suggested as she clung tight to the back fur. "Want a hand back up? We can kill this thing together."
Rin the Rabbit (Adventurer)
Roleplay from Tyler Thrice-Blessed
Message sent to Everyone in Seven Rivers
Tyler's ears are still ringing as a hand reached out above him. When did they get there? Not in much of a position to turn down help he released his grip with one of his hands and uses the new support to drag himself on top of the beast and dislodge the dagger from the now gaping wound on the beasts back leg. It won't be moving quite so fast or nimble now.

Gathering his wits and his next plan of action. He looks to rin. "I'm happy to have a company the view from up here is amazing"

Tyler glances in the direction of the wolfs head " if we're going to do any real damage we're going to need to get to the things vitals stay close maybe we live another day.

Tyler begins burying his dagger into the wolfs back using it for support as he slowly inches his way to the beasts skull. Every time he pulls the blade out and inches his way forward before sliding it back into the wolf causing new screams of rage and anger. He glances back to check on rins progress as he drew ever closer to his goal. Those shining yellow eyes
Tyler Thrice-Blessed (Adventurer)
Roleplay from Nerta the Weaver
Message sent to Everyone in Seven Rivers
Nerta sways upright drunkenly as Soren steps in to clear some space.

“Dumb bard. The hero is supposed to kill the monster and save the girl.”

The spears leap up to jab around the dashing swordsman, warding off wolves as she covers his back.

“Thanks though. Chitin is… hard.”

An apt phrase given the distraction of the bounding Rin atop her involuntary steed. It gave one wolf time enough to pounce, but though claws tear her blue shirt they leave nothing but rough scratches on the hard shell.

“You’re too static Soren. This isn’t a waltz.”

Weaving around Soren’s left, the spears ward some of the pack from helping the great Blackjaw. Had to give the pair time, but it was a delicate dance. Armoured or no, fighting a dozen wolves was hard. Too long focused in one direction and a surprise would creep up…

…Dropping to the ground as a pair of beasts lunge, one sails overhead while the other comes in low to bite at her leg. Nerta’s last dagger finds better purchase than the teeth, but Nerta still grimaces at the glancing blow shreds her muddy trousers. Chitin or no, that was The Trickster repaying her dunk in the mud.

Yet as much pressure as there was on the nimble woman, Soren had it worse. The Count of Seven Rivers had apparently offended both Gods and beasts today, because as the woman lost her spears one of the wolves sunk teeth into the man’s sword arm. A small blessing that it didn’t break bone, but the bite of wolves bleeds something fierce.​​
Nerta the Weaver (Foederati)
Roleplay from Soren Navaar
Message sent to Everyone in Rivers
The grunt of pain as Soren's sword was short and harsh. The longer the pair kept the wolves from swarming Rin and Tyler, the worse shape they were in. Lashing out, Soren brought his fist straight into the wolf's nose and forced it to leg go before he got swarmed. Blood ran in rivulets down his arm, pooling into scarlet droplets. Damage done, Soren tore the sleeve from his shirt and harmlessly cast the muddy cloth at the nearest wolf before doing the same to the other sleeve, though he wiped some of the blood from his arm before tossing it aside, barely prolonging how long it would take for the blood to reach his hand. Would he be able to hold the blade?

The brief moments stretched for eternity as Soren took a deep breath and studied the wolves, all circling in unison, more organized than some soldiers he'd met. Well Emperor, if you liked messing in my life, now would be the time to do it if you wanted me to live. He stepped toward the wolves again, blade raised wincing as pain lightninged down his arm. A coin toss, and an illusion replied to him, at least he thought it was. For the briefest moment it seemed like the sword he held, was a different weapon. White steel, almost pure with its bloodstains, existed for just a moment, too quick to notice, as steel tore into flesh. Had the wolf hesitated at that same moment?

The circle of wolves tightened and Soren found his back against Nerta's. It was reassuring to know she was still there, still in the fight. With his free hand, Soren pulled a spare push dagger from his belt and passed it back to her, but as she closed her fingers around the spare weapon, Soren lingered and closed his own fingers around her hand. A soft squeeze and he pulled away. 'Don't die,' perhaps? 'Be safe,' maybe? Something more? He didn't say, and took a step toward the beasts.

Remember your training, he told himself as charged the smallest wolf. Break the line, and give Nerta some breathing room.

Each step slick with mud and the first drops of blood reaching his hand, he switched to a two handed stance as he swung the blade, looping it around in a feint and slicing across the wolf's eyes. He didn't stop moving and broke the line of wolves as he sent the blind one skittering away. The nearest wolves faced him, but a high pitched howl caused more wolves to break off and turn toward the Count. Great. They're after me.
Soren Navaar (Count of Seven Rivers)
Roleplay from Rin the Rabbit
Message sent to Everyone in Seven Rivers
Rin nodded, the mask over the lower half of her face was suffocating from the moisture, and she finally pulled it down taking several cool breaths of air and tucking reddish-brown hair back into her hood. On her face she revealed a few freckles and a tight smile as she followed after Tyler. "Too bad I can't properly ride this wolf. It'd be great to see my father's expression if I tamed and brought this home," she said with a musical laugh, though she carefully hid her mouth behind her hand. Even bringing home the one she had gotten to ride briefly probably wouldn't give her the rights to one of the family riding wolves, though she dreamed of it someday. Following his path, Rin makes sure to add new holes to the beast's back as it started to trail in circles, jaws coming close as they climbed onward. More than once she found herself clinging to fur and one dagger as she dodged snapping teeth and more than once she was glad that she was not getting sick from the spinning. When Tyler looked back, she smiled and gave a determined nod. "Just tell me what you need! I can swing back down if you need a distraction," she offered, letting the more experienced adventurer take the lead.
Rin the Rabbit (Adventurer)
Roleplay from Tyler Thrice-Blessed
Message sent to Everyone in Seven Rivers
Inch by inch he drew closer to the head of the wolf. the beast flails and howls as it receives one new wound after another from dragging himself dagger first along the monsters back. Right behind him Rin was sure to leave new marks on the beast.

Turning toward Rin Tyler would say " When we get to the head first take out it's eyes then we go for the throat and hope we can penetrate the skin enough that it suffocates" Tyler pauses for a moment before adding " if it needs to breathe at all that is. If not we'll just improvise it's worked well for me so far"

As Tyler neared the neck of the wolf the violent shaking only intensifies Tyler quickly slides his shield from his back onto his arm having to just for a moment hold himself with just his dagger in the beasts flesh. Just as he felt the straps of his shield he realized his mistake. He had drifted too far to the right while ​​​​​focusing on not being shaken off during the climb and hanging on. However the wolf had noticed that He was within biting range.

Within just a moment the wolf violently snapped it's jaws in Tyler's direction. Just in time Tyler brought his shield just above his head. The wolf jaws snapped down on the shield. And with a mighty yank of it's head tore Tyler free of its side dagger and all.

Tyler quickly found himself flung straight up in the air directly above the now open mouth of the wolf. Tyler aimed his dagger to catch the light from his sunlight dagger. As it struck the metal the light seemed to intensefy into a nearly solid beam of light. One that struck the wolf directly in its eyes. The beast was blindly flailing now disoriented from the concentrated flash of light. And as Tyler fell his dagger plunged into the side of the beasts neck causing another gaping wound as he drags to a stop his feet dangling in the air. Tyler examines the wound he created. While certainly nasty it doesn't look like he hit any of the arteries or the asphogys meaning a beast like that may be hurting but it probably won't die. Looking to Rin he can only hope she can help finish the job before the wolf regains it's wits and finishes him off. Once again he does the only thing he can. Pray to the gods he comes out of this Alive.
Tyler Thrice-Blessed (Adventurer)
Roleplay from Rin the Rabbit
Message sent to Everyone in Seven Rivers
I did not sign up for this today. Rin thought to herself as she started scrambling up the wolf. What is with these lands? First I get sent to the middle of nowhere, and then I try to tackle a bounty and now I'm scaling a wolf like a tree! The wolf, was flailing harder now, and - Is that Tyler in the air? The world seemed to float as she lifted into the air, barely holding on to the wolf by angling her dagger before she lifted too much. The resistance of flesh and fur held her in place, and the young woman crashed back down with a grunt as the grip of one of her daggers jabbed into her chest.

Tyler distracted the beast. She clambered up the rest of the way, pausing as she reached the neck. Once she stepped onto the head, all bets were off. She swallowed hard and looked down at Tyler dangling. She wanted to pull him up again. Stop it! She scolded herself. You're the next princess of thieves. Act like it! She closed her eyes to take stock of her gear once more. Rope. Knives. Three daggers. A bow with no arrows. Rags, oils... A striker. A plan formed in her mind as she started readying her tools, working as if someone's life depended on it. It did. Hers. Tyler's. The Foederati Lady. The noble. What was his name again? Soren... Navaar? Rin paled and worked faster.

Jaws started snapping as Rin made her way on to the wolf's head and sprinted for the nose. The wolf flipped its head upward sending Rin airborne. The view would have been grand, seeing for miles in every direction, if it weren't for the gaping jaws below her. First came the oils, rags were shoved into three bottles and had already been lit, she threw two them down into the toothy maw below, praying to the Gods that she was successful. The first went left, but burst on the beast's tooth erupting in a spray of fire. The second went straight into the gullet, the creature whipping its head around to save itself. Falling like she was taught, she plunged right back onto the snout dagger first. Blade embedded in thin flesh before snapping, but the girl kicked off like a beast herself and darted forward.

The eyes came next. Throwing knives in one... Two... As one of the glowing orbs opened, her dagger launched and she changed directions toward the other with a dagger and plunged it through the eyelid. As the wolf opened its eye the dagger dragged upwards spilling more fluids in the process. reaching behind her, she pulled out the third bottle of oil and shoved it into the eye wound, grimacing as it burst. The wolf threw its head up once more as its howl resonated through the swamp sending Rin tumbling back down to the neck before she found purchase with a dagger.

She looked down at Tyler still struggling to hold on and offered a hand for the second time that day. "This isn't the right way to ride a wolf," she told him with a grin as the beast started to stumble.
Rin the Rabbit (Adventurer)
Roleplay from Nerta the Weaver
Message sent to Everyone in Seven Rivers
Nothing about Nerta was soft. A hard woman, with a hard expression, from hard mountains and covered in hard chitin. Yet on occasion she would smile or laugh, a hint of who she could be.

Encased in that hard shell, she barely feels the bard's gentle squeeze. But their fingers entwine around the handle of the knife.

"Holding out on me? Fine time to come clean. I'll go for the spears, you cover."

The woman weaves between the wolves, daggers flashing as she rolls around one and ducks under another. The new knife tears through fur as the howl echos, yet as she collects her spear she discovers Soren is not behind her. He's harried the other way by the pack.

And bleeding.

"Crystal Cursed Idiot! You don't run from wolves!"

Hissing in frustration and fear, the pair of adventurers were faring better with Blackjaw, but only just.

His shield saving his neck, Tyler's heroics were indeed blessed. He even managed to land quite the blow. Perhaps that little dagger was enough after all.

And if not, the conflagration couldn't hurt.

It did force the spear wielding silhouette to focus on the great beast. No rushing to Soren's aid while the wolf yelps and staggers around. Those snapping jaws were just as deadly as the beast dies in agony. There's no dodging this. All Nerta could do was brace her spear on the ground and let the blinded beast impale itself before collapsing atop her
Nerta the Weaver (Foederati)
Roleplay from Soren Navaar
Message sent to Everyone in Rivers
"You do when you want to do something stupid for someone!" The only words he called back.

The wolves closed in and Soren stumbled in the thick muck as he sprinted straight for the tower. His steps hobbled, but he threw himself into it, sliding across mud. He held back the wince as his shin scraped stone, tearing a new hole in his pants leg. He spun on his knee and brought his sword around. The closest wolf was taken off guard as it's skull cracked and went tumbling away, but the next wolf was on him before he could come back with the blade.

Dripping the sword, an uppercut dug a second push dagger into the wolf's throat and was pulled in time for the next one. Soren’s off arm caught the next wolf's bite with no cloth to protect him. One, two jabs with the dagger, and before the life could fade out, he swung the wolf to shield himself from the fourth, the attack caused the teeth to tear out as he stood and found enough firm earth to punt the beast with a solid kick.

The wolves paused long enough for Soren to get his blade back, though this tome he struggled to even hold it in two hands. Let them come to you, he told himself. Don't waste the energy.

The next wolf to charge met Soren’s blade. He came in low from an angle, and as the wolf leapt aside, it was caught in the swing. The next one followed immediately as Soren reversed the blades direction and crashed it back down killing another wolf.

The ground rumbled, and both wolves and Soren turned as Blackjaw fell to the earth. The largest of the remaining wolves howled, a piercing cry that painted the air with responses. The wolves fled. Soren grinned as he backed against the tower and slid down against the stones before slumping on the ground.
Soren Navaar (Count of Seven Rivers)
Roleplay from Nerta the Weaver
Message sent to Everyone in Seven Rivers
Nerta works herself free of the still smoldering bulk of the beast with only a few hairs singed, but otherwise in one piece. Yanking her last arm free with a grunt, one hand runs through her hair while another fumbles for one of the scattered weapons.

The Crystal Cursed bard...

Heart in her throat at the howl, those glittering eyes rise to find Soren not pinned, bloody and torn, but slumped against the tower a muddy mess. Slumping to the ground with a clicking laugh, relief is palpable as the wolves scatter.

"Crystal bard, Crystal... Too close."

Leaning on her arms, she twitches and hisses as the Graft starts to fade. It left her shuddering, sweaty and sluggish to rise to her feet.

"You run... off. Take all... the... fun." Panting, she paws at the ruined attire, "And co... copy my Tricks-ter... granted clothes? Have you no shame."

Grinning, and dressed in more mud than cloth, she takes a staggering step and sits hard on the ground.
Nerta the Weaver (Foederati)
Roleplay from Soren Navaar
Message sent to Everyone in Rivers
Soren laughed, a harsh bark, forced only to get the sound out. "No shame for you," he told her, a tired grin stretching across his face. He eased a hand up and undid the clasp on his cloak. It was in rough shape, but mostly intact in a deep purple. He passed it over to her and looked for her eyes. "At least you look good wearing it," he added. "Though you can have my cloak if you want to cover up your arms," he offered.

Shifting against the stone, Soren leaned against Nerta. "I know you're tougher than me anyway," he said with a nod toward the smoldering wolf.

He sighed, closing his eyes and just enjoying the moment, how close she was. "You know, you never did give me permission to die. Have I ever betrayed you before?"
Soren Navaar (Count of Seven Rivers)
Roleplay from Nerta the Weaver
Message sent to Everyone in Seven Rivers
A few deep breaths later and Nerta pushes herself to her feet and stretches. There's a lot of her to stretch so it takes a little while and gives Soren ample opportunity to admire her, attire. She was used to oblique comments about her appearance, though this was the first time anyone had meant it as a compliment.

If the admission of his scrutiny made her self-conscious, she doesn't show it and instead stalks over to inspect his wounds. Prodding at the arm she frowns.

"These are pretty bad... we need to get you to a doctor. Might scar."

The offer of the deep purple cloak caked with mud does cause her to pause. Wandering the swamp had been a nightmare of mud, flies and wolves; but she hadn't needed to hide. Now he was offering, to hide her so they could return across the bridge. That... brought mixed feelings.

Really? Now you're feeling squeamish?" Her hands gesture all along her body. "I was covered in chitin..."

The heated words are cut short by a sigh, and she tosses the cloak over a shoulder while leaning in close enough for her scent to mingle with that of the mud and blood. One hand stabs his chest, a few more tear her remaining silk shirt into a crude tourniquet.

"You're honourable, for a patrician; but you certainly got close to dying today. Didn't you?"

Puffing aside a stray hair she twists the silk into a cord and ties it, tightly, around his arm. While the hand on his chest rises to tilt his chin up.

"That would be annoying. I almost like you..."

Despite the words, she smiles faintly and clicks her tongue. Probably, her tongue.
Nerta the Weaver (Foederati)
Roleplay from Tyler Thrice-Blessed
Message sent to Everyone in Seven Rivers
The wolf was falling. The wounds sustained were far too much for even a beast that large. He quickly grasped Rin's hand and dragged himself on top of the beast as it tumbled over barely avoiding being crushed. As he stumbled his way off the beast he looked to Rin replying "huh well I'm not much of a wolfrider if we're being honest. I'd like to say I better at killing them but lately it's been more luck then skill keeping me alive I'm afraid. Thanks for save...again."

Tyler gestures to the other two having their own conversation. " Let's go gloat shall we? " Giving the dead wild one last kick he made his way over to both Soren and Nerta.

"Well that was certainly fun thanks for dealing with the small fry for us I took care of the big one so you don't mess those fancy clothes of yours too much." Glancing back at Rin " she helped a little" Tyler smiles obviously a jest.

"Well this has been fun and all I must be off soon. When I had my visions earlier there was something else I saw besides that monster stalking our trail. I saw Creasur walls fall. A sea of undead. I saw a man clearly a noble stand unflinching as an endless see of monsters swallowed him whole. I fear the necromancer may be making his move. If your travels take you that way be sure to send me a letter if I'm not a walking corpse by then."
Tyler Thrice-Blessed (Adventurer)
Roleplay from Soren Navaar
Message sent to Everyone in Rivers
"I was honestly more afraid of losing you," he admitted. "So I suppose 'almost' is a start. I've always liked you. You're a good person, Nerta, and I'm proud to call you friend."

Soren chuckled, despite the pain. "It'll take a lot more than that to get rid of me," he said, gesturing to his own beaten form as she lingered. Impressive wasn't the word to describe him. Maybe resilient? That would work. Slightly crazy? Possibly.

She was so close now that he wondered if she could hear his heartbeat pumping faster. Could she feel it? She had a hand on his chest. There was no way she would miss it. With his chin in another of her hands he couldn't break eye contact as their breaths mingled and sweat left a salty tang to the air. He remembered that she had once told him about patricians always wanting something, and he had tried to avoid making her feel that way with him. She was important to him, a friend, even more. But this close, he could only wonder one thing... Would she still be a friend if the words escaped?

"We just survived whatever crystal damned fate this swamp could throw at us." He reached out and found one of her hands, lacing his fingers with hers. "Are you going to just stare at me this close all day, or are you going to kiss me?"

As the words left his mouth he wondered if he would regret it. Would she do it? The moment froze as a thousand possibilities came to a collision point. Which one would make it first?
Soren Navaar (Count of Seven Rivers)
Roleplay from Nerta the Weaver
Message sent to Everyone in Seven Rivers
"You never did have good sense, but obviously the blood loss is worse than I thought. Let's get you out if here..."

The lacing fingers stop her from pulling away and that final question brings a smile.

"A kiss? And you probably want to survive too." Her tongue clicks, he can see it this time as she leans in just a bit closer. "So demanding."

The kiss is hard, almost an assault, and she nips his lower lip. Yet as brief and sharp as it is, he does survive.

In no small part thanks to Tyler and Rin joining them to critique their contributions. The crack about her clothes earns Tyler a laugh and a scraped handful of mud flung his way.

"That's two giant wolves, Tyler. You're becoming an expert."

The news about Creasur dampens the mood.

"You do know what those visions mean, right? You're Augur Blooded. Maybe you always were, or maybe it's after that mess at the Seeping Giant."

Patting down Soren's bandages, Nerta runs a hand through her hair.

"The Dread Necromancer is a symptom of a larger problem. Ever since The Blight, Beluaterra has been dying. The Seeping Giant, it used to be the Sleeping Giant. All the sacred sites and loci used to be more vibrant and enduring. We've been trying to figure this out for years now, but it's been slow going. Maybe that's where you come in Tyler. The visions, the shield, it might be connected to that mess down south."
Nerta the Weaver (Foederati)
Roleplay from Rin the Rabbit
Message sent to Everyone in Seven Rivers
Rin rolls her eyes as she listens to Tyler's jokes. "Next time you can scale the wolf yourself," she teases back, but he's already going on about visions. That was more than she signed up for. So were giant wolves, swamp adventures, slapping wolves in the face - she hoped she hadn't knocked out a tooth or something - and dealing with people who might recognize her for what she is. A thief. Her grin, more toothy than anticipated as she revealed a pair of sharp front teeth, and if her legwork was any indicator, a rabbit totem gave her her power.

Nerta's words threw her for a loop next. She was not good at adapting. In fact, if it weren't for the Calanars, she doubted she would even be free of her mountain. So she forced the shock down, but her mouth hung open just a little as Nerta spoke of The Plight, and Necrodancers, and Sweeping Giants, and did she have mud in her ears? She plucked at a bit of clean cloth on her shirt and pulled some from her ear. "This has been fun and all," she commented, "but I might be out of my league with dead fencers and giants. If any of you need a hand, I'm happy to help though," she with that light grin and a slight bounce to her movements. "Even if it's just keeping your Augur alive!"

The nervous laugh that she let slip at that moment definitely didn't give anything away. Nope.

"My name is Rin, my... Lady? Sister?" The Count was exhausted, and given the intimacy she had been fairly certain Nerta was a patrician too until she thought about her arms.
Rin the Rabbit (Adventurer)
Roleplay from Soren Navaar
Message sent to Everyone in Rivers
Soren felt left out. He also felt...panic? A good panic? He sat stunned, Nerta still holding his hand, touching his face, fiddling with her bandage work. Weren't spiders good at wrapping things up? He didn't voice that thought. His lower lip still stung as his three companions spoke of visions and far off threats, already moving on to the next fight. He shook his head, and using Nerta and the wall for support, he struggled to his feet, stopping only to pick up the wicked sword he had been using, the blade the beasts were drawn to, and sheathed it once more.

"I'm sure you'll be called on again Rin," he said, finally chiming into the conversation."Anyone capable of some of what I saw today would strike fear into many men and women alike. The creatures stand less of a chance."

Now that he was upright, he leaned, just noticeably into Nerta and tried not to laugh at what a pair they probably looked like. As she adjusted his bandage again, he was grinning at the foolish thoughts in his head, but slowly drew himself back to reality.

He cleared his throat and appeared to have collected himself, for now. "Tyler, my family history is tied to that of the Sophos of Nothoi. If you need an introduction for safe passage, say the word and I'll have a letter sent."
Soren Navaar (Count of Seven Rivers)
Roleplay from Tyler Thrice-Blessed
Message sent to Everyone in Seven Rivers
Tired hungry and dirty Tyler father's up his belongings before taking a more serious tone. Augur blood giant wolves what a life we live in. I'll have to reach out to you in the future nerta should anymore visions happen. In the meantime I have received a letter from the emperor of the vales it seems he has a contact about to open a portal amdist the hordes of undead. A very familiar tale indeed. I will be Makeing my way there to aid him now. If one of you happens to have a portal stone it would be a great help. If not your blades would beore then welcome as well. Farewell and good luck until then.
Tyler Thrice-Blessed (Adventurer)