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Fantasy For Astoria! - (Reboot)

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Chapter 1
  • Index

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    Chapter One: Halamead
    17th of Calder, 1032    ​
    Midsummer was always a good time of year. The refreshing breezes and warm sun putting the smile on many tired faces. Those with little income rarely had to worry about warmth and food, able to fish in the streams and the temperature never dropped enough to freeze the water. The animals roamed as if they owned the world, the insects fluttered by your face with every chance they got, and the crops were plentiful. Especially in the small town of Halamead. Their grains and fruits for making their ale were in their peak, those breezes making the fields of grains dance just like the ocean.

    And today was a very special day. Music filled the streets of Halamead, the smells of delicious foods and ale mixing with the sweet scent of summer. They were having a party! The reason was...well, the reason was unknown. It was a simple town, but they loved having a festival or two. Maybe it was someone's birthday, or maybe it was an anniversary of some sort. Or maybe they were just celebrating their craft. Which, seeing as how the booze flowed freely and the fights were encouraged and bet upon, might be the real reason. Songs were sung loud and most of the time, badly, boasting about old battles or the popular songs from the boats. Baked goods were sold on stalls, a large fire roared in the center of town, various meats roasting above it. It was a good day to be in Halamead.

    The locals weren't the only faces among the crowd. A few travelling merchants from Odelun sat with the warriors, drinking and sharing stories. Elves out to see the country sat with the local women, talking about the differences in scenery. And among the crowds, are you. It doesn't matter why your here, if you're perhaps just passing through or stopping for supplies, or maybe there for a job. No matter the reason, you may as well enjoy the festivities.
     
  • Index

    • 056e0c796102f135083c2e914da348d6~2.jpgAurelia Barrows
      Location: Halamead, Town Square
      Interaction: Open
      Mentioned: N/A
      Aurelia was having the time of her life. Antiva had festivals a lot. Public birthday celebrations, harvest festivals, the Ice Fishing festival. And she loved those, she really truly did. But this...this was a festival like she had never experienced. Halamead was known for it's alcohol, the fresh, sweet scents of Mead and wine mixed with the summer breeze and wafted over the cobblestone streets. But that was not the only scent on the air. The streets were line with various carts and stalls from all over, street foods of all variety available for sale. There were the savory scents of the meet carts, the smell of fresh bread and pies from the bakers, even the almost too rich scent of dwarven chocolate. You wouldn't know it from the bright smile and enthusiastic almost skipping around that this young woman had spent nearly an hour that morning begging her traveling companion to stay for the festival. They had been in the area to turn in a hunting request for five deer, and had learned that the animals would be used as part of the giant meal at the end of the festival. And it just sounded like so much fun...

      Aurelia was successful in convincing Roman to stay, bringing up the fact that they never knew when their next change at some down time would be. And! He would get free ale during the festival! That was the nail on the head. Aurelia let out another giggled as she went speeding by the stalls again, giving her companion a brief wave as she passed the tavern he had decided to sit down to just watch the festival. Aurelia didn't know where to start, having passed by each stall three times now, the young woman was also overwhelmed by choices. There were sweets and savory, small toys and other trinkets, jewelry and even a blacksmith. There were a few game to play as well! Tossing horse shoes and chess, plus a few challenges of skill such as axe throwing. Roman warned her against the archery challenge. "You'll win too easily and they'll think you cheated," He said.

      "Yeah right!" Aurelia replied. Much to her dismay, there was a no elves sign at said challenge. Oh well, she'd have fun other ways.

      Like finally deciding on something to eat. Aurelia on her fourth pass of the stalls, finally spotted a small stall that was almost hidden selling a filled steamed bun. Aurelia immediately headed over to stand in line, bouncing in place as she waited. These buns were an elven treat she hadn't had since last seeing her mother over two years ago. They were soft, and most of the time, had a sweet filling of some kind of fruit. They'd make a delicious breakfast. Once it was her turn, Aurelia decided to buy two, one apple filled and the other a sour-ish plum. They were warm, and smelled wonderful...Aurelia had to use all of her might will to wait until she had found a good spot to sit before digging in. Since the buns were chewy, and the insides were piping hot, Aurelia spent the next little bit enjoying her breakfast as the sun slowly rose. In the morning, the festival was lively, but not nearly as busy. But as the hours slowly ticked past...by mid-day, it was a festival exactly like you would expect.

      Not being able to partake in the archery contest meant that the majority of her time after eating breakfast was spent just wandering and looking at stalls. She wasn't the biggest fan of alcohol in the first place, but Aurelia would occasionally find herself roped into tasting some free samples of new brews. Her favorite was a dandelion whine, but not enough to actually have the woman drop 30 silver on a full bottle. Anyway, as much as she would have loved to stay for the big feast at the end...her interest was slowly dwindling. Aurelia was just a few minutes away from going to find Roman again when she suddenly heard a swell of lively music carried by the breeze. Her attention was drawn toward the town square where a band was set up on a small stage, and the young woman couldn't help a smile.

      She approached the square almost hesitantly, watching as some of the festival goers moves to the center and began dancing. Aurelia had hoped for exactly that, rushing forward to join the crowd. The steps they were using were slightly unfamiliar to her, Aurelia herself stiff an unsure about what to do and how to step. But after a few moments and some encouragement by a kind plump woman, Aurelia fell into pace with those dancing, the smile on her face refusing to fall

     
    Alixaviah Njorvid
    Location: Halamead Market Square​

    Laughter and joyous chatter filled the air around the market square, the cacophony of sound cut through by the cries of the merchants calling out to those passing by. Alixaviah tightened her grip on her spear as she leaned more of her weight onto it. Thegiantess stood near a collection of stalls, the Roalon Crest displayed prominently on her surcoat.

    Normally Halamead was a tight knit and peaceful community, but the festival brought people from all parts of the world. After all, they did make the best booze in the kingdom.

    Normally Roalon would send a larger contingent of guards to aid in the peace keeping for the festival, but this year they decided to send her with only four of her men. She wasn't sure it was the best option but the mayor of Halamead insisted that having a local hero like the Bulette Breaker would offer a much more effective deterrent to would be criminals.

    Viah scanned the streets diligently, her keen eyes on the lookout for anything out of place. In truth, she was bored, and very much wishing she was off duty. "This may be the most peaceful place." She mused, "If not one of the most dull." All the giantess knew was that after this festival was over, she would be sure to bring back a few barrels of the local brew for herself.

    [Interactions open]
     
    Sweat dribbled down the hooded half-elf's forehead and neck as he approached his temporary destination of Halamead. Leo felt the heat of the mid-day sun beaming down on him as the cool, contrasting breeze wafted a mixture of scents around him. The most notable of them being the smells of cooking meats and flowing booze, causing the tired traveler's stomach to growl. He had been wandering on foot since the previous sunset, enjoying the thinking he was able to get done in the peace of night, but with the summer sun at its height Leo decided that investigating the source of these intoxicating smells and stocking up on rations took precedent. Using his unarmored arm to wipe his brow, the half-elf continued down the path between the numerous farms surrounding the town, eventually making his way toward the town square.

    Leo had heard the occasional story of Halamead from drunk companions during his days as a mercenary, but nothing that would've prepared him for the festival he stumbled upon. The half-elf's emerald eyes seemingly shining in anticipation through his squinted gaze as he observed the stalls selling cold ale and fresh food. His right hand reached down to feel the weight of his coin pouch. The ex-bandit still had mixed feelings about the idea of purchasing goods, however if he was going blend in here for a rest and recovery, then conflict with drunkards in this small town didn't seem too wise. Deciding he could make the amount he had back in a short amount of time if it came to it, Leo let his hood down and made his way through the bustling festivities.

    The number of times that the young outlaw had seen festivities like this could be counted on one hand. He kept his head on a swivel as he witnessed more and more ordinary townsfolk join in and participate in games, dancing, and drunken laughter. Although partying wasn't big on the list of things that Leo enjoyed doing, it usually meant an opportunity to let his guard down and try to enjoy himself, and that included food and beverage. The sounds and laughter and song filled streets around him as Leo made his way up to a vendor that was selling his poison... Casks of homebrewed ale. Sauntering up to the stall, the half-elf waited for a massive man, taller and bulkier than himself, to set down the two full barrels he was carrying before he turned to help the thirsty traveler. If there was one thing that Leo learned to communicate effectively after all these years, it was what kind of booze he wanted, purchasing a large glass bottle of the brew from the barrel for 25 silver. Normally forking over money would have Leo in a sour mood, but this stuff was made in Halamead!

    Making his way over to the large fire in the center of the party, Leo saw the main courses cooking up close, his stomach complaining once more. Groups of happy, dancing townspeople outside on the streets made him think about the empty, filth-ridden streets that others in this kingdom have to live in everyday of their lives. The pondering outlaw shook his head as if shooing away the depressing thoughts before finding a nice grassy area to rest. Sitting on the ground and leaning against his bedroll, Leo pulled out his new bottle of alcohol and his pad of paper ready to relax and enjoy the view of the fire and dancing until he was ready to get his hands on some pork.
     
    Alaric Hayden

    *Clack* *clack* *clack* went Alaric's boots as he walked along the rough stone pavement of Halamead. Ever since saying his farewells to his family, he had been wandering around the empire of Liomuran doing odd swordsman work with none the wiser about his true parentage. Sure it was nice not having everyone stare at you because you were a noble, but there were some perks of being one that Alaric did indeed miss. Thankfully if indeed he came into a situation where he needed to have a plan B, he had a Hayden signet ring ready to go in his rucksack hidden in a secret compartment for such an emergency. Anyone who was not in the know would see the attractive Alaric the Swordsman in shining steel plate with a longsword on his back.

    Alaric had just finished a job guarding a caravan bringing goods into Halamead, most likely for this whatever this was. Receiving his payment earlier Alaric was released to explore the town, and to figure out where he was staying the night. That could wait until he celebrated his uneventful and successful job with an ale, one of his favored pastimes. Walking around he noticed a tavern called the Fairy's Fall Inn. ~Huh, what a weird name~ he thought to himself. Entering inside his ears started to ring with the drunken singing of patrons, something he was accustomed to hearing as a mercenary. He didn't mind it as it reminded him of his travels, but it was not his primary concern. Sitting down at the bar on one of the stools the wood sagged a bit with a *creeeak.* Either the bar owner didn't care too much about maintenance or this was a popular spot. Waving over the innkeeper, he paid for a simple room for himself as well as a flagon of ale and a good sized piece of bread. The bread was an old trick his father taught him, much to his mother's chagrin, of how to mitigate the alcohol. Sighing heavily, he then began to enjoy his bread and drink his ale in peace with the loud bar patrons in the background.

    Possible Interactions: FireMaiden FireMaiden
     
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    The rich scents of cooked meats and good alcohol wafted past the gates of the town and was carried by the wind, along with the music and chat of the residents and visitors. Eventually it found its way to a tall vaguely elven woman perched on top of a stone, overlooking the valley and forest below her. Apples had heard the festivities of other events, but not quite like this. Chewing on a twig, she got to thinking. Typically she would either discard the human activity and retreat further into the wild, or simply sit here like an observant hawk, studying them. For whatever reason, the deity’s curiosity was peaked- or was it annoyance? Or maybe she was just interested in knowing exactly what was causing all this nonsense in the first place? People had this very irritating habit of celebrating every small thing. Perhaps it was something worth exploring.

    It took a while for her to make her way down the mountain and towards the town, but Apples paid it little mind. She liked the tranquillity of the woods, even though it was being interrupted. Reaching the treeline close to the gate, she waited a moment, watching as people went through. A small bird, a robin redbreast she had seen before (she recognised her wing shape) landed on a twig close to her, ruffling her little feathers and looking at Apples with her beady little eyes.

    “Hm, I suppose they woke you up too?” The partial-Deity asked her. The tiny bird trilled and waggled her tail, “Yes… well. I suppose it is about time to see exactly what all of this nonsense is about,” the robin tweeted once, “of course, I will just observe for a short time then I will go home. I need to finish my sleep.” As she was about to leave, the robin perched on top of her wooden staff. She sighed with a roll of her eyes but still gave the little bird a pat on the head with her index finger.

    “If you must,” she started walking again, “How are the eggs? Close to hatching, yes? I will visit soon, I promise. Yes, yes I know, I will bring more next time…”

    --

    “Friends! Brethren!” A voice would continuously ring out, belonging to a mangy looking man in a plain green tunic, flanked by three others in matching clothing, all trying the same methods in trying to convert every unfamiliar face that passed through the gate, most who which either politely waved them away or awkwardly quicken their pace and staring straight ahead.

    “Fools!” The main yeller, a man by the name of Heit Burr (but insisted upon Windsong) yelled at a young pair who were decidedly uninterested in the rotten tree bark he had tried to shove in their face, “We are surrounded by the divine work of the Mother Goddess and her kin, to deny this path is denying the world of nature itself! She is what makes the sky blue and the fires hot-!”

    “Shut up, fleabag!”

    “Repent, sir! Or face Her wrath!”

    “I’ll repent you!”

    “Huh,” Burr flicked his batted ponytail, “miscreant. May the Mother Goddess strike the roof of his house.”

    A few people turned their heads as Apples, still conversing with the robin, made her way down the cobbled street, leaving muddy footprints in her wake, not to mention that she was wearing nothing but an old pair of shorts and some leaves to cover her chest. The saplings on her ankles quivering, making her lift her feet higher. The vibrations of activity seemed to be disturbing them. Apples stopped and looked around, her nose slightly wrinkled, a little overwhelmed by all this activity. She blinked and let out a sigh and continued walking, still not entirely sure what to think. Maybe she should not have left the forest.

    Interactions: OPEN TO ANYONE!
     
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    Aloi Navi

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    Ain't no party like a Faye Party!

    Aloi was in Halamead for the same reason as all the Big Folk, to have fun. The Little Folk, the Faye, like him were very different from the more private and secluded ones of his family back home at the Academy. They were more open, more risky at getting spotted by the other races. He felt a strange kinship with them and quickly got pulled into their games and events. While the Big Folk continue to dance and celebrate, there was an equal amount of celebration going on in the shadows and underneath in the crawlspaces and unused basements of the kind folk of Halamead.

    The Faye had their own source of alcohol. Spending time around those who made it often meant that they had their own ways of creating it and just like his own family they often helped out with the locals.

    In short. Aloi was a little drunk and more likely to take risks. He and a bunch of other young Faye were playing a game. When the Big Folk started dancing, they'd use their high speed, the natural inclination to be ignored, and their skills to make small alterations to the clothing, shoes, ect, of the dancers. Aloi was leaving his signature design, a single line stitch of a mouse.

    The most recent one was the most difficult as the dancers had gotten into it as well as some new people who clearly did not know the steps. Aloi took a drink from his thimble of mead and focused, a flash of green catching his eye and he grinned. That would win him the competition. On a count of three, the group shot out towards their targets. Aloi used his agility and maybe a small burst of his magic to lighten his steps as he kicked off of feet, grabbing a skirt as it swirled and used the momentum to toss himself higher. He even kicked off of someone's head, a hand swiping up to bat at him and a mutter about oversized flies before he was tumbling through the air.

    He wiggled his tail, catching the air and righting his angle as he turned a tumble into a graceful drop. Then the woman moved slightly and instead of landing on the outside of the hood like he intended, he gently fell into a open between her shoulder and the hood and rolled into the dip. He blinked and looked around before frowning 'Great...now I'm stuck' he'd have to wait for the young woman to remove her hood at some point.

    But...it was soft and comfortable. He could nap...but first he was going to do what he set out to do.

    He spotted a small tear, either made when he landed or just wear and tear. He could in theory cut it open and get out that way...but that went against his instincts, his helpful nature wouldn't allow him to make things difficult for someone else just to make it easier for himself. Instead, he pulled out a small needle and began to do stitch work, making his signature as well as repairing the hood. Now that he was examining it, he could see plenty of places that could use improvement.

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    Mentions: FireMaiden FireMaiden (Inside Aurelia's Hood)

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    {Izunia Diptail: Empire of Liomura; Halamead - Outskirts}
    Izunia scowled under her hood at the town of Halamead. When her boss Decklan had said he wanted to send someone to Halamead to secure some imports of their famous variety of alcoholic beverages to have in stock, Izunia had jumped at the chance to go on a journey. Now, here she was. The excitement of being on the move damped by the knowledge that she had to deal with the gods cursed blunt ears for this. Humans, while not actually scum of the earth, still didn't rank that high in Izunia's estimation. They were at least better than goblins, though that wasn't a high bar.
    "Just get in, go drinking, get out with a contract." She muttered to herself.
    She urged her mount, a large goat that had been sold to her with the name Troll. He was an odd sort, but dependable. She had learned to enjoy such combinations as it kept things interesting but not too interesting. The goat trudged down into the town, carrying his sullen rider with him. Inzunia noticed her right hand drifting closer to one of her fire wands. She didn't trust these blunt ears farther than she could throw them, but made that was a step too far. She moved her right hand to rest on her right thigh, where it was closer to her Water Wand. It was made to be nonlethal. Handy for a bartender to have. She would at least try to not kill humans that caused trouble at first. Until they escalated it.
    The kitsune rode through Halamead, which in her rather biased eyes, seemed ugly and dirty. Still, more races about than she expected. What caught her attention was a rather strange individual walking through town, leaving muddy foot prints behind her. She didn't seem human. Maybe another faye? Well, best look out for each other. Izunia spurred Troll on a little faster till she came along side Apples.
    "Top of the morning to you." Izunia greeted the individual whose attire definitely marked her as an outdoorsy type. "Name's Izzy. You seem to be new in town too. What brings you to this rou- I mean, fine town? And could I possibly buy you a drink?"
    Izunia gave Apples a disarming smile, giving a small look at her sharp incisors. Her inhuman ears were covered by the hood, though her eyes and tail still marked her as non-human.

    Mentions: Rumble Fish Rumble Fish​
     
    Arcturus De'Rune
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    "Soak it all in, Ozzy, an entire festival dedicated to destroying livers and fuelling the worst inhibitions humanity has to offer!" Arcturus said, rather cheerfully, with his arm draped across his companion's shoulder as he steered the man along.

    "Are you drunk?" Ozzy asked, unimpressed.

    "Are you not?" Arcturus sounded genuinely taken aback, "it's a beer festival-"

    "I don't think it is-"

    "Semantics. It's Halamead, every festival here is a beer festival. It's in the name, they're rather on the nose about it, really. I met this lovely gentleman while you were at the farmer's market who gave me a mug of homebrew...something, I haven't entirely figured out what it was," It had tasted like apple cider, but it tasted like tar and chunks of tree bark as well so he couldn't be sure. It had the viscosity of syrup, and, now that he thought of it, it could've just been syrup, which would explain the taste.

    "The drink did nearly solidify in my throat and asphyxiated me, but other than that it was a very kind gesture," Arcturus said before seemingly second-guessing himself, "Oh, well, he did try indoctrinating me into a religion about a goddess named Apples that was either a tree that could turn into a woman or a woman that could turn into a tree-he was very particular about that distinction but I wasn't really listening-so he wasn't...all there. He may have been slightly insane, but other than that a very nice fellow."

    "Why would you drink it?" Ozzy asked, incredulous.

    "Because it would have been rude to refuse, Ozzy, and-Oh dear," Arcturus cut himself off as two upended the contents of their mugs on him as he walked by, coating the left side of his coat and sleeve in beer before laughing and continuing down the street. Confused, Arcturus hesitantly licked some of the liquid off his collar, making a noise of approval at the taste. "Was that a custom of the festival? It looked intentional. I didn't know humans did that-or is that native to Halamead?"

    Ozzy, to Arcturus' surprise, snatched a mug from the hands of a man too drunk to care and reared back to throw it at the back of one of the men's head before quickly steering Arcturus out of sight as the man yelled in outrage.

    "Arc, mate," Ozzy began, clearly exasperated, "They were making fun of you."

    "No they weren't," He dismissed immediately before rethinking it, "...Were they?"

    "Yes, arc, they were," Ozzy said, unfolding a piece of parchment from his pocket and beginning to read through it, "Alright, we only have a few more errands. We can buy the Hibiscus petals and Aloe Vera you need at the Apothecary, but not the Faye Lichen since I'm fairly sure it's illegal-"

    Arcturus had stopped listening, deciding sucking the beer out of his sleeve was a better use of his time.

    "-Then if we still have time, we can join a competition or go tavern-crawling. Assuming, of course, that you don't get us chased out of town-Arc, are you listening to me?"

    "Hanging onto every word," Arcturus lied through his teeth, "And I don't always get us chased-okay, well I do, but it's always a misunderstanding. Is it really a crime to practice necromancy?"

    "When you resurrect someone's uncle without telling them, then yes, yes it is."

    "One time, and I didn't even know!" Arcturus might have imprinted onto more than one wanted poster across the kingdoms, but he was being completely honest when he said he had never committed a crime with ill intent.

    "Just don't do anything rash, Arc. I've been looking to the festivities."

    "Cross my heart Ozzy," Arcturus said, hand on his heart, "Nothing will ruin today for you."
     
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    Location : Halamead | Fairy’s Fall Inn
    Possible Interactions : Open
    Mentions : Clockwork Syringe Clockwork Syringe

    “A HA ! “ Linnea slammed the wooden tankard onto the table before her, grinning triumphantly at the stout man sitting across the way. The young woman crossed her arms over her chestplate and leaned back in the chair- near far enough to topple it over. “ I believe you owe me 3 silver pieces, my good man. “

    The man, Baltor she thought his name was, grumbled something obscene as he rifled in his satchel. He tossed the coins onto the table, which were eagerly snatched up by Linnea’s gloved hands. Baltor rose, downed the rest of his drink and offered a small nod before she left her table. “Gadiel smiles on you, little one. Good match.”

    Linnea chuckled, pink quickly blossoming across her features as she counted her winnings. She may be a quick drinker- but holding her mead, well that was another matter entirely. But what did it matter? This was a festival, she may as well enjoy herself.

    She had arrived at the Fairy’s Fall Inn earlier that day, purchased a small room and gotten herself lost in the festivities. Her trusty rapier for once not hanging at her waist- for fear of it slicing someone while she danced in the town square earlier. The redhead looked around the Inn. She was seated indoors, away from the rather large intimidating wolf that she noticed in the outside area. The area was bustling, folks laughing and drinking, she adored being a part of the commotion. Then her eyes fell on a rather familiar figure hiding away from the crowd at the edge of the bar.

    What a treat, she hadn’t had a run in with anyone from her hometown for a while now. It would be rude of her to not say hello when the opportunity presented itself. Linnea stood from her table, and watched her seat immediately get taken by one of the standing tavern go-ers. Dang. Nevermind, after greeting Alaric she had planned to go out to the town square again. She came up behind the man and threw her arms around his neck in a hug, grinning

    “ How odd for you to have your guard down, Alaric.”
     
    Alaric Hayden
    Interactions: sxperhuman sxperhuman

    Alaric listened as what seemed to be the end of the drinking game coming to pass and quietly mused to himself as a result. ~Looks like the Inn will get a little quieter~ he thought as a small smile escaped his lips. Taking a drink from his flagon he then rapped his fingers on the bar with a *ta-tum* *ta-tum* *ta-tum* as pondered what he was going to do for the rest of the day and/or tomorrow following it up with a *crunch* of bread. Whilst chewing, he as suddenly *attacked* from behind by an unknown figure. Attacked may have been a strong word as well as he looked at the pair of feminine armored arms suddenly around his neck. “ How odd for you to have your guard down, Alaric.” came a familiar woman's voice.

    Unknown could also now be thrown out as he definitely recognized the voice as it came from a woman who grew up in the same hometown as he did. Swallowing his bread with some difficulty due to the arms around his neck, he then spoke. "You know if you wanted to actually hurt me you could have done so a number of different ways." Suddenly feeling several pairs of jealous eyes on him he quickly, and uncomfortably, began to try and extricate himself from the woman's embrace. Turning his head it was none other than Linnea Vorealis who had snuck up behind him. "I didn't realize you'd be in Halamead, what brings you here? The festival perhaps? I just got done with guard duty for a caravan myself. You also mind letting me free too so I can enjoy my food?" requested Alaric.
     
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    1656264322981.pngApples was still speaking to the robin, deep in conversation about the best nesting materials when the sight of a huge, bluish grey ram came toward her, ridden by a woman who spoke to her openly. The deity’s hawkish eyes blinked a few times in surprise and curiosity. She cocked an eyebrow at her initial greeting. She looked around a little. Nobody else seemed to have noticed her presence, not that Apples gave it much mind. She was only here to have a look around and then leave. But, she might as well be polite. She cleared her throat, slightly taken aback.

    “Morning,” she answered bluntly, taking in the woman’s appearance. The robin perched on her staff let out a little twitter and tweet of goodbye to the pair of them before fluttering away back to her nest. Apples wished the little bird would stay around, but alas. She turned her attention back to Izzy as she introduced herself. The nymph looked at her teeth and then her eyes caught sight of her tail. Her shoulders relaxed as she realised that she was indeed a fellow fae. Humans might have been low on Apples’ totem pole of tolerance but she harboured no ill will to human-like fae. Especially as she herself was using one. A small gust of wind flicked her calf length hair back and made the saplings on her legs quiver.

    “Call me Apples,” she answered finally, her face remaining stoic but her orange eyes shimmering curiously under thick brows, “it is a pleasure, Izzy. I came down from the mountains to see what all this noise is about. I have never intended to come to this town, but sadly my curiosity was peaked.” She added before looking around again. People were still staring but at this point the deity gave it very little notice. She took in her next statement, about why she had approached and she intended to answer. That is, until a voice broke through the noise and laughter, belonging to Burr as he approached.

    “HARK!” Apples blinked uneasily and glanced back at Izzy as if silently questioning if she knew this nutter, “As the prophecy foretold! The New Age has began!” he thrusted his arms up in the wake of confused stares. Apples could only stand there in confusion. She seemed to share a glance with Izzy’s ram mount, as confused as she was.

    “Breathern! Rejoice! For the Mother Goddess walks among us!” He continued as his followers circled, making Apples grip her staff in annoyance. He… knelt in front of her, “My Lady! Bless you for gracing us with your presence! Do smite these sinful hive for their lack of faith and reliance on conventional means!” He, to Apples' shock reached for her saplings, making her flinch back from him a little.

    “…What?” Apples bawked at this suggestion, scratching under her armpit. She turned her head back to Izzy, turning her back fully on Burr, “A drink? I am afraid the only sort I am familiar with is water,” she finally answered her, scratching her stomach, “but in the seemingly festive spirit of today, I will entertain the offer. Shall we?” she moved her staff a little in an ‘after you’ gesture before they began to walk, thankful to get away from these nutters. Burr stood, arms folded but did not seem put out.

    “Do not despair,” he hissed to his disciples, his eyes drawn especially to the saplings on the deity’s ankles, “The Mother Goddess shall provide what we seek.”

    Interactions: RikuXIII RikuXIII
     
    056e0c796102f135083c2e914da348d6~2.jpgAurelia Barrows
    Location: Halamead, Town Square
    Interaction: Grimmlock Grimmlock (Leo)
    Mentioned: Seraph Darkfire Seraph Darkfire (Aloi)
    As she continued to dance, the young half elf would let her hood fall away completely (but something might still find it inconvenient to escape), her light hair and ears exposed to the world. She had been warned by the important people of her life to be careful. Roman would even warn her despite the comments and the way he acted around non-humans. But this wasn't like Grayport, or Dewgate, or even the capital. This was Halamead, everyone was welcome. This was the safest she had ever felt in a town. That being said... occasionally, she'd catch a glimpse of the hateful looks of visiting merchants or guards. It wouldn't kill her joy, Aurelia wouldn't give them that satisfaction. That being said, she'd slowly migrate away. But that unintentionally put her in the path of an unknown creature. Not that Aurelia had quite noticed his presence, but she noticed her hood felt a little heavier. At roughly the same time, she heard a loud laugh from nearby. "Look! The wee thing got me this year!"

    The voice in question was a short, plump woman who had her skirt hitched almost all the way up to show off something on the hem. Aurelia expected her to be shouted out for doing something so "indecent" but instead the small group she was showing off too were all silent for a few moments...before suddenly erupting in a series of cheers. Aurelia cocked her head as she watched. One of the group seemed to notice and beckoned her over, the woman showing off her skirt quickly turning to show Aurelia. There on the hem was a small, looping stitch of what appeared to be a frog. "What's that? A taliors mark?" The younger woman asked. Instead of laughing at her cluelessness however, the other woman just smiled.

    "Nah lass, this festival attracts more than us bigguns it does, the wee creatures come to celebrate too! Every year, some people notice their marks, we think it's a game they play!" She said, gesturing to what seemed to be a little table of offerings made for easy grabbing. "The Faye enjoy parties as much as we do! And 'ere in Halamead, they're as welcome as everyone else! Don't socialize much, but can't blame 'em. If you're sticking around for the feast, make sure to fix a tiny plate too!" The woman explained, her voice slowly getting louder as she was pulled away to join a new wave of dancers. Aurelia couldn't help a smile. But either that smile, the young woman realized she was rather thirsty, and quickly turned to approach a nearby stall. From it, she ordered a tankard of some sort of sweet ale that was more refreshing than usual. Aurelia giggled to herself as a few bubbles popped against her nose while she sipped, looking around to see where she could sit to enjoy said ale.

    After a few moments, Aurelia spotted a man sitting by himself. There were other festival goers sitting nearby him, but keeping their distance from the hooded and somewhat intimidating looking stranger. But Aurelia saw no problem in approaching him. "Hello!" The woman chirpped. "Mind if I sit for a few minutes? I don't know the steps to this song, so I'd just spill my ale."
     
    dwarf.jpgBruin Kingfisher

    Bruin let out a sigh as she savored the last drop of her very first glass of Halamead ale. This truly was some of the best brew in the continent, she thought to herself. Sweet like honey, but with a pleasant earthy kick like blackcurrant. She leaned back with a content smile as she placed her empty tankard on the bar, crossing her legs that dangled from the seat that was far too tall for her dwarven frame.

    “I gotta give it to you, mate.” She purred at the barkeep. “You lot sure know how to brew a fine mead.”

    She gave him a wink and tossed a coin his way.

    “I’ll have another!”

    Although she was here on Odelun business, she acted nothing like it. For all it was worth she might’ve been a tourist. She might’ve liked it better that way, anyhow. She admired this town’s propensity for jollity and parties, which is something that she wishes she could partake in more in her homeland. She gazed with a smile painting her freckled face as the townsfolk danced, taking in every swirl of skirt and rhythmic click of heel upon pavement with a twang of longing.
     
    Leo Donahue​
    Leo was entranced by the view before him. Flames dancing and embers flying as cooks kept the fire roaring. Groups of people dancing together, some rather impressively coordinated and others, not so much. Scattered throughout the background were plenty of satisfied tavern crawlers, full tables of diverse people sitting around eating and socializing, and happy couples stopping at different stalls and merchants. The captivated half-elf's hand was gliding over the paper in his lap, doing his best to sketch the scene with charcoal. Drawing the dancers was difficult due to the dances changing so often, the missing half of his bottle of ale probably also contributing to the increasing difficulty. With a rough outline sketched, Leo slid the pad back into his bag before taking another pull from his drink.

    As the hooded half-elf was setting his bottle back next to his belongings, he heard a woman's voice call out to him and ask him for some space to rest for a short while. Leo looked up and right away noticed that the woman was a half-elf as well. He was taken aback for a short while that she would be so open about it in the middle of a town, before remembering he was in the middle of the most tolerant festival he'd been to. Leo's emerald green eyes connected with the woman's, meeting her with a rather penetrating gaze. He waited a couple of seconds, studying the half-elf's features and demeanor before nodding his head and raising his own ale to her as he brought it back in front of him, popping the cork off.

    Holding the bottle by the neck, Leo stated to swing it softly in circles, watching the liquid inside swirl around with it before looking back over at his temporary drinking buddy. "I guess us half-elves enjoy our ale," The outlaw commented as his free hand reached up to his head to pull down the hood hiding his shaggy white hair and pointed ears. Leo held his gaze as he raised up his bottle, tilting the bottom end out to her for a toast. "I'm Leo."

    FireMaiden FireMaiden (Aurelia)
     
    4f0fd5d7b1ce10db49e5f60592892a77.jpg
    Chapter One: Halamead
    17th of Calder, 1032    ​
    As the festival carried on, those on the outskirts of Halamead would hear what at first, reminded them of distant thunder. Gazes shifted upward, searching the clear sky for any sign of rain or storm. But all they saw were the white whisps of clouds streaking across the sky with the wind. For the moment they though nothing of it, returning to whatever it was they were doing until they heard it again. This time, closer. Confused once more, those that heard it paused what they were doing and began to look around. The thundering only got louder over the next few minutes until someone was finally able to place it. "Are those horses?" One man asked, hobbling around to the front of his cart to see. His confused was cleared immediately when he spotted what had caused the other's to go silent. He immediately backed away, giving the new arrivals a wide berth.

    That silence would spread as large, armored horses trotted through Halamead, bar fights and haggling put on pause as empire colors invaded the lovely decorations the citizens had put up. The dancing and music would be the last to stop as the man at the head of the pack stopped in the middle of the town square. Halamead was almost never this silent, even at night. There was always something, the animals, the inn and tavern, the kids who snuck out to do whatever it was they wanted. But for now...it was dead silent. The man seated upon the lead horse was older, salt and pepper brows hair and clearly wearing a set of distinguished armor. "Good afternoon everyone," He spoke, his voice holding the flat, regal tone of Terberis "I apologize for interrupting your good times, but I'm afraid I come on urgent news. So long as you cooperate, we will be on our way as quickly as possible." The crowd watching would give him no answers, but the man would take that as acceptance.

    He would reach to the left side of his saddle, opening one of the saddlebags. And front it, he pulled a rolled piece of parchment, the green wax seal bearing the Liomuran Empire seal. "Where is the mayor?" The question would spark the locals turning heads, searching the crowd for their mayor.

    "Just a moment!" A man would call out, the tapping of a cane breaking the silence. The crowd would part in some places then grow closer once again as a short man hobbled forward. "Right her sir, I am Gerald Oswald, to what do we owe the pleasure?" He asked, the man in the horse handing down the parchment.

    "All business I'm afraid," He'd reply as Gerald popped the wax seal and began to read. "It is a shame really, my family use to make the trip yearly to enjoy the first brews of the season," He spoke, readjusting in the saddle as Gerald read. The accommodating smile on the man's face slowly fell, his eyes darting between the paper in his hand and the man in horse back.

    "N-no this, this has to be a mistake," The mayor spoke, the man on horse back focusing on him once again, brows narrowed.

    "Are you saying that his Majesty is wrong?" The man questioned, the tone of his voice changing to that of poorly hidden anger. After a few seconds, Gerald stumbling to find the right words, the other man's face soften and returned to the neutral expression he had previously. "The decree on that parchment is correct, I expect you to follow through with it peacefully."

    "But how, how can it be correct? There has to be a mistake, surely you-" The man on horse back would not let him speak further, leaning down to take the parchment away from Gerald with a scowl.

    "Enone does not look favorably upon cowards," He growled in a low tone before straighting up and clearing his throat. "People of Halamead, we are here to aquire rebel mage Malachi Fields, and take him back to Terberis where he will stand trial for his crimes against King Sebastian." As soon as that name had fallen from his lips, gasps of disbelief and concerned murmurs managed to hide a heartbroken sob from somewhere in the crowd. But the man would be met with no answers. Nobody moved to give up this Malachi person, and those visiting would be left confused by his identity. Silence had once more taken over the usually lively streets of Halamead. Slowly, the soldier's face would redden as his request, the king's request, went ignored. "Your defiance is not amusing," the man warned, "Give us Malachi Fields, and you may resume the festival."

    But still, nobody moved. A minute would.pass, the silence persisting until finally the man balled the parchment in a fit and was dropped to the floor. "I see...Lieutenant!" He called, looking behind him as another man in well taken care of armor pulled ahead to the front of the pack.

    "Yes General?"

    "I want Malachi Fields found at any cost," He spoke, turning slightly to look at the lieutenant. "Burn it down." The command caused gasps, the soldiers behind him already moving to set their torches ablaze, lobbing them into the roofs of nearby buildings. They split as the general turned his horse, "I leave the search to you lieutenant!" He spoke, digging his spurs sharply into the sides of his horse, causing it to neigh before it ran off, the General leaving Halamead to his subordinates.

    The fire would spread quickly, leaping from home to home, building to building as the soldiers spread out, weapons drawn. The screams of the town folks replaced the silence that once hung so heavy over the streets. "Quickly!" The mayor yelled. "Get to the town hall! It can withstand the flames!" The crowd was already moving, the large stone building on the far side of the town the citizen's destination.

    And seemingly, only hope.
    ​
     
    Location : Halamead | Fairy’s Fall Inn
    Possible Interactions : Open
    Mentions : Clockwork Syringe Clockwork Syringe

    "
    “You know, if i actually wanted to hurt you, i would have done” She retorted. It was only somewhat of a boisterous buff, 4 out of 10 times in their training sessions she did land a good hit or two on the swordsman. The other 6 times may or may not have landed with Linnea on her ass. The smile still played on her lips as he tried to weasel his way out of her grasp. A couple more moments, then she retracted her arms- instead crossing them over her chest. “ You’re no fun. “

    “ I finished up a job in Roalon, some goblins took a liking to one of the gold mines and they needed clearing out.” Linnea shrugged, leaning forward, resting her elbows atop the bench.”I heard chatter about the festival and figured- why not check it out. I heard that halamead ale doesn’t compare…”

    The smile drifted off of her face as she turned her head towards the entrance of the inn. The crowd had always been loud in this area, but she could of sworn something had changed in the air. Raised voices in the distance no longer sounded like the merriment of festival goers- but screaming. Cries for help.

    “ Alaric. “ Her voice hardened. Well, that was a sobering thought. A pit formed in her stomach- she left her rapier upstairs, packed away. This was supposed to a time “ Do you hear that ?”
     
    Alaric Hayden
    Interactions: sxperhuman sxperhuman
    Nearby FireMaiden FireMaiden
    As Alaric was successfully free from Linnea's grasp he turned around to see her crossing her arms across her chest while uttering "You're no fun."

    "Hah" Alaric muttered in response. "I can be fun when I want to be." He further listened as he listed off how she had cleared out some gold hungry goblins and decided to come to Halamead to try out the town's named ale. "Well I'm here to-" Alaric then noticed Linnea turn her head towards the door asking him if he was hearing the noise outside. Craning his neck he turned an ear to the door to try and make out what was going on. He did start to hear a couple of anguished cries as he listened further. *Sniff, Sniff* ~Oh lords thats smoke.~ Alaric thought to himself. Turned to address Linnea Alaric started, "Linnea we need to-." He paused for a moment, "Where's your favorite rapier?" He questioned. "Never mind, we need to leave, I smell fire. Meet me outside when you are ready, but be quick." Draining the last of his ale, he quickly slammed it on the counter and hurriedly said, "thank you for the ale" before leaping off the barstool. In doing so, the poor sagging stool fell over and exploded with a loud *CRASH* as Alaric ran out the door not paying attention.

    Running outside, Alaric was dumbfounded; fire spread from rooftop to rooftop and the screams could be heard all around him. ~CONCENTRATE~ Alaric mentally yelled at himself. ~You're dead if you lose focus in a situation like this. ~Stay calm and wait for Linnea, THEN the two of you can figure out what in Enone's name is going on here.~
     
    b2a86d3652b0b25563d8e29a4f0a6db2.jpg

    {Izunia Diptail: Empire of Liomura; Halamead}
    Izunia nodded her understanding to Apples explanation. Curiosity made people do strange things, even visit places like this. Before the conversation could go further, the pair were interrupted by some sort of zealous crazy person. He was going on and on about Apples being the "mother goddess". Izunia wasn't that knowledgeable about human deities, so no idea if this was one of the established religions or if this was drifting into cult territory. Considering the man's look, she would bet on cult. At least Apples seemed equally put off. Hopefully this guy would take the hint.
    "Absolutely!" Inzunia answered, pausing only a moment to give Burr a withering glance. "I'll be happy to give you a taste of more tasty beverage options. I'm feeling, for you, something in the cider range, if they have it. Come on."
    Izunia started leading the way, trying to figure out where best to start. She had been thinking of starting with a stout, but her promise to her new friend had her actually craving an apple cider.
    "Ah, here we are." She exclaimed, stopping her mount and sliding off.
    The fox eared faye marched up to a stall and was about to inquire about their alcoholic wears when there was a commotion coming up the street. Human soldiers were spreading out and lighting the town ablaze. While Izunia didn't have much good thoughts about humans, there was still a class thing that took precedence over that.
    "Seal the good stuff and get to ground." She told the vendor in a low, urgent tone.
    She remounted Troll, then glanced down to Apples.
    "You might need to forgo your curiosity." Izunia said, still keeping her voice low. "This could get messy to be in the middle of. Better make it out while you can."


    Mentions: Rumble Fish Rumble Fish ​
     
    1658615814548.png

    1658615786260.png
    Apples' relaxed demeanour was quickly shattered by a commotion further from where she and her newfound companion stood. Within minutes, the sight of flames erupting from one of the thatched roofs, quickly spreading as a man, who the deity assumed to be in charge, began shouting for the citizens to flee. The fire spread as people panicked, yelled and ran- it seemed that nobody had any idea what was going on. Only that this once joyous day was descending into chaos.

    The cataclysm of flame and panic sent the deity’s senses into a frenzy. The fighting that had broken through the chaotic atmosphere only made it worse. Too many dangerous weapons, too much heat and smoke billowed from burning wreckages all around. Apples only knew one thing and that was that this “town hall” they seemed to speak of was some kind of refuge. She looked around quickly, trying to remain calm, but the heat in the air was already stressing her and causing her nerves to fly.

    "What is this!" she yelled up to Izzy, but before she could ask anything further, a sudden pressure on her saplings caused the deity to leap back, yanking her foot away. To her horror and frustration, Burr was on his hands and knees and mud was smeared on his fingers, clearly from Apples' own legs, "What in the name-?!" she spat angrily at him as he stood up. Burr appeared strangely calm throughout all of this.

    "It is said," he spoke having to raise his voice to be heard, as Apples anxiously checked the sapling he had tried to grab. Thankfully it was unharmed, "that if one takes a sapling from the Mother Goddess, he would be blessed with immortality."

    "Do you realise what you could have DONE?!" She bellowed at the stupid man, her hair suddenly flailing as if alive behind her. For such a... "educated" mortal he seriously had no clue! But that meant very little. Things were becoming more and more chaotic by the second. Grabbing her staff, the nymph turned in an attempt to leave, but the rushing crowd made that exceedingly difficult. She looked up at Izzy, "Get yourself to safety, I will find my own way." That was becoming more unlikely by the second. She looked up at the blazing fires and her throat went tight. She could not stay here, if so much as an ember touched her, it would swiftly lead to a full burning.

    RikuXIII RikuXIII
     
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