[Sat Mar 31 20:25:42 GMT+00:00 2001]

You sit in the local tavern pondering the recent opening of the Halfaxe trail and the influx of more trade has spared the actions of bandits along the way. Several caravans have complained about attacks upon them and several smaller operations have disappeared all together. Some of the local trading costars has set rewards for the capture or driving off of the bandits with additional rewards for any recovered cargo that has been taken. Many still believe the trail should be kept closed and fear the reprisal of the elves of the forest while still others fill the elves are long since gone and that is what is creating the problems with the bandits. Although the silent spread of the Zhents has been cast back and fourth no one of yet, has given, or found any proof of this.

[Gremag]: "barkeep get me a ale!" Pounding on the bar.

Feragan sits in the corner watching everyone else.

The old hag Delora that has been running the tavern for years is sitting by her self spit shinning the glass along the bar. Across the room is another table of 4 older gents who are taking a break from the fields as they sip their afternoon lunch.

Gremag sits down at the bar "Get me some, tall Dwarven spirits," grunting to himself.

Hawk "Aye, an ale!" Sitting down at the bar.

Delora looking over to Gremag the old lady gets up and fills a glass slamming it before him spilling half the drink. "That’s a silver sir and we will have none of that here."

Russeth sits in plain sight in the middle of the room. He pushes his cloak back and takes a sip of a glass of wine, his eyes move from the old gents to the hag as he smiles.

Mordineon surveys the patrons of the bar.

[Gremag]: "give me a full glass and maybe ill actually pay"

Delora waits his coin she nods to your orders as she makes her way for some mugs.

Gremag motions to the half-filled mug

[Delora]:"Full glass for such a small man." The lady laughs to her self as she fetches the others their ale.

Gremag grumbles "5 coppers for 1/2 of a glass I wont pay a copper more"

Zakren looks around the room and leans back on his chair, thinking about the rumors.

Russeth swiftly grabs his glass and silently moves onto a stool at the bar. He raises an eyebrow at the dwarf as he finishes his wine. "Excuse me miss, I'd like a refill of the same ale." He smiles as he pushes the empty glass towards her.

[Delora]: "here ye go sir a nice ale for such a nice boy." Smiling towards Hawk.

Gremag drinks his spirits "small man, big money"

Mordineon moves to sit with Zakren, remaining silent.

[Hawk]: "Many thanks M’lady" Paying her for the drink.

Gremag grumbles about the service "prejudice barkeeps" Drinking his spirits.

Delora nods and takes the empty glass to get a refill.

[Feragan]: "Barkeep, a glass of wine"

Russeth looks over his shoulder at the complaining dwarf and shakes head "Sir, be polite. And add a little patience to that you might get a deal." An odd smile on his face.

Delora Upon her return grabs a small bottle, of dark liquid. "Here ye go 1 silver for the ale and two for the wine."

Feragan hands her 2 silver for the wine.

Russeth nods at the lady as he grabs a gold piece from his belt pouch. He spins it with two fingers in front of the lady, "Slide in a word to the commons that I am in town and I seek adventure." He smiles and hands her the gold piece.

Gremag sighs "show off".

[Delora]: Smiles as she takes the coins and slips them in her small purse.

Russeth turns and watches the dwarf again "Pardon me?"

Gremag grins, "so what’s a gent like you doing here anyway?"

Mordineon looks to Zakren, "What brings you here?"

Feragan sits thinking where am I, as if deep in thought, broken occasionally by a sip of wine...

Zakren scratches his chin..."I am traveling across Faerun that’s all."

Gremag looks to Russeth.

Hawk gets the Barkeeps attention and asks, " Is there any work in this town?"

Mordineon never looks up "Interesting".

[Delora]: "Aye there is plenty planting season is coming. They will need a lot of strong backs they will."

Zakren shakes his coin purse and only weak clings can be heard..."I might be looking to make some money too...I am down to my last silvers."

[Russeth]: "Well Gremag, it is normal for a Dalesmen like I to visit the greatest settlement of the Dales." He pauses and takes a sip of the new glass, "And in fact, part of the town to the north is populated of my kin. I might go there as a guest, later. What about ye?" He tastes the wine carefully as he waits for an answer.

Gremag studies Russeth from head to toe.

Russeth A young yet tall wood elf stands before you, his light brown hair shoved behind his ears vanish within the hood of his dark green cloak. His forest green eyes glimmer at all times and matches the cloak almost perfectly. He brandishes a long sword in his left hand and a morning star hangs on his right side, waiting to be grabbed. Strapped on his back are a bow and quiver, as well as his well-filled dark green hued backpack. Using the chest piece of his studded leather and the large collar of his dress, he tries to hide his pointy chin. His muscle can be perceived on his dress, seemingly worked on carefully and outlined perfectly. His belt bears a false black onyx oval gem and two similar small ones to the sides; a belt pouch clanging with gold pieces hang on his left side. His boots, crafted for riding, rise to his thighs and finish off his dress.

[Mordineon]: "I have little in the means of money as well"

Gremag shrugs "well, a wimpy elf like you can’t do much harm".

You sit back in the tavern listening to the old ladies words as you sip upon your drinks. While the other four men keep to they’re own while drinking and finishing up eating.

Russeth turns around and looks about the room, he smiles at the sight of an elf and takes another sip of his wine, calmly.

Mordineon looks to Kakren, "Have you any work in mind?"

The four men across the room get up and make their way to the door as they nod and bid good' day to the lass.

[Gremag]: "isn’t there a human here under the age of 70? Other than us I mean".

Zakren turns to Mordineon in deep thoughts..."Have you heard of the reward offered for the capture of the bandits..." He glances around the room...2Maybe we could recruit a few people and try to drive them out."

Gremag points to himself "and IM not a human".

Russeth turns his head abruptly at the comment. "A dwarf filled with prejudice I see." A broad smile on his face, "Perhaps I will get to prove you wrong, my good sir." He raises his glass to the dwarf and takes another sip.

[Mordineon]: "I have heard of the rumors, and was looking for some good companions."

[Gremag]: "aye lad, if you try real hard you might actually get me to think of you as a fighter"

Russeth looks into the eyes of the other elf as he scans the room and waits for him to do the same.

Gremag raises his glass in cheer and drinks it

[Feragan]: "Who is a fighter?"

[Delora]: can be heard giggling to her self at your comments as she takes a quick break of her own to drink down her ale.

Mordineon looks over his shoulder at the dwarf and elf then back to Zakren; "They seem to get along just great."

Hawk " Aye be a fighter.

[Feragan]: *Looks at Hawk* "Well, I'll suppose I'll have to take your word for it..." *grins*

Zakren nods..."I haven't met many dwarves in my days but I hope they aren't all that way."

[Russeth]: "Pardon me a minute." He curtseys to the dwarf and moves away towards the table of Mordineon and Zakren "Excuse me, I couldn't help but hear your conversation, and I have to say it sounded interesting. Bandits... I heard too." He grins as he takes a sip of his ale and puts the glass on the corner of the table.

Gremag is a muscular dwarf with Splint mail covering him from the shoulders down. A large pack is on his shoulders and a sword at his belt. Also there is a large rope across his shoulders diagonally and crampons on his feet

Hawk Aye "

Mordineon raises his head and quickly surveys the patrons, "I have never met one, but he seems rather peculiar"

Gremag has a ruddy brown complexion and his hands are callused.

Gremag follows "IM not letting you have all the fun".

[Feragan]: "Excuse me good sirs, are you all talking about the bandits?"

Russeth rolls his eyes in front of Zakren and Mordineon, hiding it from Gremag.

Zakren looks up at the elf..."Aye...bandits...We'll need a scout to find their trail. I wonder if we can convince one to come with us."

Mordineon is covered from head to toe by a Black hooded robe that covers every part of his body from head to toe.

Hawk to Zakren " Aye I'll scout for ya "

Mordineon looks at Russeth; "do you know these parts?"

[Gremag]: "I don’t care for tracking, but I do hope we get to behead some of those scoundrels"

Russeth smiles as he looks at the surrounding chairs "Mind if I take a seat, there are great chances I am who ye seek." He pushes his cloak back and reveals a sword and morningstar, both sheathed and hanged.

[Gremag]: "hey, a elf with a tooth have you bitten with it yet?"

[Russeth]: "These parts, well I know most everything - geographically speaking - in between here and Scardale, to the south." He shrugs as he pauses for another sip.

Zakren glances at the dwarf..."Why would you want to follow elves, from what you said earlier, you don't care much for my kind." He silently awaits an answer.

Gremag shrugs "I don’t care about you, I just want the battle, and the profit if need be" grinning.

[Feragan]: "A hem, a hem!" *I walk towards the growing group* "If my ears aren't deceiving me, I would say your topic of conversation is very interesting and I would like to join you"

Mordineon sits back and recluses into his robe

[Gremag]: "if I have to travel with elves, so be it"

Russeth smiles at the sight of confrontation "Well, Gremag, if you do not care about elves, you might want to find battle on your own?" He raises his glass again, smelling provocation in the air. He brings the glass up to his mouth and finishes his glass once again.

[Gremag]: "besides, you pansy’s need the protection wouldn’t want to let you get killed now". Gives a mock bow

Zakren scratches his chin..."Hmm. why would I want someone who doesn't even like me...why lose a share of wealth for that? I believe I can find other muscles..."

As you ponder your thought about the table in walks a mature burly man as he makes his way to the bar. He is glad in chain armor and has a large axe across his back.

Gremag grumbles

Russeth smiles at the dwarf "You wouldn't want me to get killed, because that would mean you - that were hiding behind - would also perish."

Mordineon looks to the man

Gremag takes out his sword

Feragan looks over speaking to the dwarf in dwarf common. "Why don’t you calm down friend...elves are worthy allies..."

Gremag glares at Feragan "would you like to bet on that?"

Hawk to the man who just walked in " What a fine weapon ya have there "

Zakren raises an eyebrow..."Be careful what you will do in the next seconds of your life..."

A short bit later the lady loads up a small keg upon the bar as the man nods, and pays her with a gold coin for his drink, before sitting at a table.

Gremag looks to Zakren. "Maybe I should just go now and forget about it anyway"

Russeth brings his elbows to the table and supports his head in both his palms.

Mordineon speaks to Russeth in elven "Forget the dwarf, he is not worth your effort friend."

[Gremag]: "you will just hoard the gold from me anyway"

Feragan Speaks to Zakren in elven common "Please calm down and prove you’re worth working together rather than against each other.

Hawk ' and what a large mug ya drink from "

Turning ever so slowly and looking upon Feragan the man speaks briefly. "Yes, yes it is." As he sits at his table.

Gremag storms out the door

Russeth turns and shrugs at Mordineon and replies in the same language "I have no bad intentions here, this dwarf provokes my kind."

The man nods to Hawks comment. As he fills a personal mug he sets on the table.

[Mordineon]: "I understand, he seems rather sturdy and could prove useful if he can control himself"

Russeth peers over his shoulder at the armored man and then back to Gremag leaving. "Oh well. What fly has stung him?"

[Feragan]: "When will dwarves and elves learn to forget their rivalry..."

Gremag looks around outside

Hawk " what are you drinking?"

Zakren shrugs..."I don’t want to have to watch my back from allies while I will be chasing another enemy." He turns to Feragan..."I don't know much about dwarves but this one openly said he didn't like my kind...I cannot trust him."

Russeth shrugs "I have nothing against dwarf, my good sir. But I do not like to be treated this way." He explains.

Staring at the keg and the now full mug of dark ale he looks up at Hawk and shakes his head with out a word.

[Feragan]: "Dwarves are like that, but I doubt that they would betray a traveling companion... I do not take to kindly of drows... doesn’t mean I cant be friends with you, does it?"

[Russeth]: "Anyway, where were we? Oh. Yes. The bandits, have you people had any plans? They say they will reward high for recovery of caravans."

Mordineon looks around, "why don't we all sit down and try this again, I am Mordineon, who are all of you"

Russeth motions Feragan a seat in front of him at the table "Have a seat, my friend. Or you might want to go get your Dwarven friend?"

[Feragan]: "Ill be right back..." *I walk outside*

Hawk to Zakren " I said I'd scout for ya, and that should settle this don't ya think? "

Gremag is sitting down thinking outside the bar

[Feragan]: "Dwarf!"

Russeth looks over at Hawk "Sir, what experience do you have with scouting...?" He smiles sharply and quickly becomes serious.

[Mordineon]: "What is everybody's name?"

Zakren shrugs..."I guess we just head down the Halfaxe trail...looking for tracks or until we are attacked I guess."

[Russeth]: "I will let you begin, sir." He motions Mordineon to start.

[Feragan]: "Give me your name dwarf, and I will give you mine..."

[Gremag]: "Gremag"

Hawk " Ah know the area well enough and ah have survival skills "

[Mordineon]: "I am Mordineon"

Gremag looks at the other dwarf

[Feragan]: "Mine is the Arch-mage Feragan"

[Gremag]: "mage aye? "First mage of our kind I have seen in a while"

Hawk ' ah be hawk "

[Feragan]: "Aye"

Russeth takes a deep breath "I wish to offer my own skills as a scout, perhaps we could combine the effort to find these bandits. My skills listed by importance... I am a good tracker, I know a whole lot on woodlands surviving and their inhabitants, on water, I am unbeatable." He sighs and looks over at the man in chain mail.

[Feragan]: *I stand a bit over 6ft, cloaked in a dark blue cloak...definitely human*

Zakren quickly says his name and gets up to go talk to the axe man.

The man peers up at your ramblings as he swallows down his drink and begins to pour another one.

[Gremag]: "bah"

[Feragan]: "Let’s go back inside.... Those other fellows could use us and we could use them to collect that reward..."

[Russeth]: "The name is Russeth, I am Apprentice to Espiegle Galadonel, proud Ranger of the House of Belintar Sharnraven. Pleasure to meet you here today."

Gremag ponders "rewards I don’t care for"

Mordineon keeps his facial features hidden and explains to Russeth "I am a healer, and an average fighter."

Gremag shakes his head "though I am a bit short of cash."

Russeth follows Zakren with his eyes until he reaches the axe man "Who do you think that man is?" As he gets up and ready to move back again to the bar to speak with the barkeep.

[Gremag]: "no, not with elves I won’t get my cash anyway"

Mordineon looks to Russeth; "your skills will be very useful"

[Gremag]: "they will just disappear into the forest. Why should I trust them?"

[Mordineon]: "Probably an adventurer, or a guard of some sort."

Russeth nods as he grabs his glass and moves over to the bar "M'lady, another of this fine wine please, and could you tell me who that man at the table is?" He glares over at the axe man without pointing.

Gremag sighs and looks to the mage

Mordineon gets up and moves outside to Gremag, "Please come back in my friend, we could use a sturdy fighter if we are to venture after these bandits."

[Feragan]: "listen..."

Mordineon turns and walks back to his seat in the bar

[Feragan]: "The elves think you will backstab them, while you think they will backstab you"

Gremag looks offended "I would never backstab"

Zakren makes his way back to the table and leans back against his chair thinking.

[Feragan]: ""Exactly...and neither would they...this is the problem..."

Mordineon sits next to Zakren..."Do you think this is going to work out?"

[Delora]: "He is Shea, and he likes to drink alone." As she slides you you’re drinks looking over at the others?

[Gremag]: "ok, ill give it a shot" walks back into the bar

Zakren turns to Mordineon..."What is?"

[Mordineon]: "This group of people"

[Russeth]: "Shea." He looks back at the man and smiles "Important, possibly informed about those bandits?" He asks keeping his eyes on the man's armor and axe.

[Feragan]: "Now listen to me, we will go in there, and join them, and I give you my word that the elves will not betray us..." I offer my hand to shake and walks back in the tavern.

Gremag walks to the group "I will, but only because I want to" and plops down into a seat

Russeth notices Gremag coming back in and gives him a warm smile from the bar. He then turns back to the lady.

[Feragan]: "Gentleman, my name is Arch-mage Feragan, and this is the stout warrior known as Gremag" *sits down*

[Mordineon]: "What is your name Dwarf, Mine is Mordineon"

[Feragan]: "We would like to join you"

Gremag sulks and mutters an agreement

Feragan observes the group.

Mordineon Looks to Feragan and Gremag, "Can we all get along?"

Zakren shrugs..."Fine..." He gets up and yells to Russeth..."Come on, I know where we have to go." He slowly makes his way towards the door.

Gremag gives Mordineon a withering look

Russeth walks back to the table with his full glass of wine and smiles "Welcome back. Dwarf, by the way, my name is Russeth." He raises his glass again "I didn't mean no offense earlier, you did."

[Feragan]: "Yes"

Mordineon turns his head, "I guess not." Gets up and follows Zakren

Russeth nods at Zakren slowly trying not to spill the drink "Why don't we clink our glasses to this newly formed alliance before Heh?" He takes a sip of the fine wine.

[Feragan]: "We give our word to get along...we would never betray any companions we joined unless betrayed first..."

[Gremag]: "Stop! This is between me and him"

[Russeth]: "I did not speak of betraying. I do not think of dwarves this way at all." He shakes head as he puts the wineglass on the table.

Mordineon moves to the door

[Gremag]: "Maybe this isn’t the best thing, but for now this is the way it will have to be"

You stand talking and toasting as the other leave the tavern.

Hawk sits with the stranger watching.

Russeth pushes the glass in the middle of the table and trots outside the tavern following Zakren "Where are we going?" He shouts once outside.

Gremag gives a wary smile "in time, it might change" looks to Zakren," where are we going anyway?"

You find yourself outside into the dismal weather. With the recent snow and rain the roads are nothing but mud and a few puddles.

Russeth looks over his shoulder "When you see how different I am than you think, dwarf, we will be great friends, I am sure." He nods to himself.

Zakren looks back at the elf..."To the trader costar...there's two in town...let's start with Harrowdale coaster House." He looks to see if all the others followed.

Mordineon follows

Russeth nods at Zakren "As you wish." He smiles and reaches his side.

Gremag snaps his fingers, "and I thought we were gonna dual"

[Feragan]: "You shouldn't duel over stupid misunderstandings..."

Zakren looks down at the dwarf and he shakes his head in annoyance as he makes his way to the Trading house.

Russeth simply follows, whistling a joyful rhythm that follows his footstep's noise.

Mordineon follows a few steps behind the rest of the party

You stand waiting for the others too see some still missing.

[Feragan]: "So, we are all going to work together to get the reward"

Gremag looks to Russeth; "don’t you ever get sad?"

Russeth smiles at the greed of the humanoid. "You can get the reward, I want the notoriety." He takes a deep breath and looks over the surrounding buildings.

You make your way through town where you come across the local trading costar. You make your way into a small foyer area some 20x20 wide ending at a counter separating the back area. Behind the counter at a desk is a middle aged human male reading over some paperwork.

[Feragan]: "Well, it’s not really the money IM after...it’s the spells I can learn with that money..."

Hearing you enter the man looks up from his thoughts "May I help you?" Speaking as he gets up and makes his way over to the counter.

Gremag shrugs "and I need a stock pile..."

Russeth nods at Feragan "Then you are still after the money, the money that will help you pay the scribes."

[Gremag]: "I probably know less about that than you"

Russeth looks over at Zakren as the man gets up, awaiting their conversation.

Zakren walks up to the desk and smiles to the man..."Aye...I seek information on the recent caravan raids on the Halfaxe trail."

Gremag takes out his sword and starts sharpening it

Mordineon moves over to Feragan. "So you are a mage, very interesting."

"So you here for the trail job are ye? Well sure you young bloods, can you handle such a task?" Smiling as he looks over the lot of you.

[Gremag]: "Us youths need SOMETHING to do" grinning.

Starts writing down upon a piece of paper while dipping his quill between comments. "Yes, I understand the job pays 50 gold for proof of the death or proof the bandits have been run off. Another 75 gold will be paid for every ton of goods retrieved from the raids."

[Mordineon]: "I have always been fascinated with magic."

[Feragan]: "Well, I have a long way to go before I...I mean. Until I am a powerful mage..."

Zakren rubs his ears, I have been across half the realms..."I do lack experience but I am older than you are sir" He smiles to the middle aged man.

[Gremag]: "you know...I have heard that if you drink the blood of a mage you gain their powers..." shrugs

Mordineon well, I wish you luck in your endeavors."

[Feragan]: "I also heard that dwarves make for good stew...don't believe everything you hear..."

Russeth pushes his cloak aside, revealing his weapons. "I can handle myself, when the need be. But I prefer to avoid trouble." He smiles and lowers his head to read what the man is scribing. "We are indeed interested."

"Well gentlemen if you would please sign this." Sliding forward a piece of parchment of the job requirements at hand. "This says you agree to keep your end of the bargain in order to collect the rewards. Just in case you can't read. Oh one more thing if you use a fake name I hope you have proof or you will not get paid."" Smiling as he hands over the quill and ink jar.

Gremag scratches his head "how do I write my name?"

"Yes I’m sure you can." Snickering as he waits your mark.

Zakren scratches his chin and tales the quill..."Do you provide wagons for the retrieval?"

[Feragan]: "Ill show you it in Common and you can copy the marks..."

Russeth smiles as he looks over at Feragan "Especially not from a dwarf hey!"

Mordineon moves to the table and signs his name

"No sir we do not have wagons for you to use."

Russeth leans down at the table after Mordineon is done and signs his name at the bottom "I am glad finding employment was so easy."

Feragan signs his name and show Gremags written out in common to Gremag.

Gremag copies it to the paper

Mordineon looks to Zakren, The goods were probably taken in wagons."

Blurting out towards you as spittle lands upon you.

[Feragan]: "Copy these marks on the clerks sheet"

Russeth looks over the clerk's shoulder at Mordineon "And the wagons saccade."

Gremag whistles a tune

Zakren dips the quill into the ink and signs the piece of parchment with the mark of his goddess before handing it to Russeth.

The man waits quietly for the paper to be signed. "You know you really need to learn this." Crossing his arms and shaking his head.

Gremag looks at the man puzzled

[Russeth]: Russeth quickly steps outside in an urge "If you'll excuse me a second." He looks nervous and mutters a few words from outside. "How could I forget."

[Gremag]: "IM a fighter, not a scribe"

[Mordineon]: "Unless the bandits carry everything, I am sure the wagons will be useable."

[Feragan]: "Gremag, from what parts are you from?"

[Mordineon]: "As far as how to pull the wagons is something we shall need to figure out."

[Feragan]: "Well gentlemen, shall we embark tomorrow morning?"

Mordineon turns and walks to the clerk, "is there a library that I could use?"

[Feragan]: "I need to memorize a spell before we set out..."

Zakren shrugs..."Might as well start the journey today and sleep in the wilds...I doubt I could afford a room anyway."

[Russeth]: A minute later, Russeth comes back in, a dog jumps up and down excitedly by him, trying to bite at his arm gently "Everyone meet Catch, my personal little friend." He kneels down by the dog. "Oh yeah, catch is good, yeeeeah, good dog!"

[Gremag]: "the mountains actually...got any poison?"

Looking over the paper making sure it is done to the best of your crude writings. "Well bring back the proof and you have made your self some coin. Is there any thing else you need?"

[Mordineon]: "Where is a library?"

[Feragan]: "How much is the reward?"

[Gremag]: "A vial of it"

Zakren rolls his eyes and hides his face with his hand.

[Feragan]: "Forget the poison..."

"Heh your funny there is no library here sir." Taking the ink and quill and returning them to their shelf.

Russeth grins as he listens to the conversion, petting his dog. "It's your decision guys, do you wish to leave as soon as possible?"

[Gremag]: "I need poison" crosses his arms

[Mordineon]: "Well, thank you."

"50 gold for proof of the death or proof the bandits have been run off. Another 75 gold will be paid for every ton of goods retrieved from the raids."

[Feragan]: "Well if you want to make any use of a wizard I suggest we wait until tomorrow"

Zakren nods to Russeth..."I believe we should leave now."

[Mordineon]: "I care not when we leave"

[Gremag]: "do you have some poison or not?"

Zakren shrugs..."We can do without your spells for one afternoon..."

[Feragan]: "Where's the rush? One night will not make the bandits escape us..."

[Feragan]: "But if you insist, fine lets go"

The man frowns at the words of poison are mentioned in his place of business. "I suggest you get going from here." Nodding towards the door.

Gremag shrugs and exits grinning. "Glad you feel that way"

[Feragan]: "Your going to be a lot of trouble Gremag..."

[Feragan]: *goes outside*

Mordineon walks out the door

Zakren bows to the middle aged man..."Thank you...we will see you again." He comes closer to him and whispers something to him.

[Russeth]: "We have a better chance of finding bandits at night, what do you think? And if we find an encampment, we can also get the effect of surprise." He smiles again and raises back up. "I am in favor of leaving, perhaps we can stop at Velarsburg for the night."

"Aye just have proof or you waste my time." Waving you out as you leave.

Zakren then makes his way out of the Trading house.

[Feragan]: "Lets go than..."

Russeth follows behind Zakren calling his dog that jumps in his direction and then moves in front of the group, looking behind every now and then.

Mordineon follows behind the group

[Russeth]: "Do you think we should seek more people, to join us that is?"

[Russeth]: "Why not kill two birds with one stone, perhaps others seek to help with the cause." He shrugs his arms crossed.

Zakren looks to the others..."I think we're enough...do you know anyone else that could join?"

Russeth shakes head "Not to my knowledge. But who knows." He shrugs again. "We can go now, if you guys all wish."

Zakren scratches his chin..."It might not be a good idea to go around town asking for people to take out the bandits...for all we know, there could be some bandits in town."

[Feragan]: "Well, we can wait a day, you guys can look for others, I can memorize my spell, and we could leave tomorrow morning"

Russeth scratches his chin. "Well that's a really good way of seeing the situation, Zakren, let us depart towards Velarsburg now then!"

Russeth ignores Feragans comment as he looks into the streets and brings his arms to his hips.

[Gremag]: "so what are we doing?"

[Feragan]: "I guess leaving."

Zakren scratches his head..."On to Halfaxe trail then." He follows the roads to head east.

Gremag shrugs "ok"

Russeth nods and decides to reply "You can prepare your spells in Velarsburg tomorrow as well."

Gremag grins, "let’s get ourselves some bandits"

You all follow Zakren down the road heading east where you walk for a short bit before finding yourself down at the docks. There are several ships here and all appear in for the night.

Russeth points in a general western direction "This way, my friends!"

Zakren sighs..."Wrong way." He heads to the opposite direction in search of Halfaxe trail.

Russeth shakes head at Zakren "What did I say... I think I'll show you the way around." He smiles.

Gremag sighs, "well...now is the time to see if these elves can do something useful"

Mordineon looks to the group and says, "I say we let Russeth lead due to his expertise in the woods and this area."

Russeth follows behind is overly excited dog, once they see the edge of town and the farmlands the dog gets a little less excited and finally walks in a straight line.

You make your way to the western side of town as you can see the sun sinking off below the horizon. There is a small two-rut trail cutting through the steep.

Mordineon walks to Russeth and whispers something to him

Russeth decides to take the front of the party as they follow the trail. His dog straight in front of him, he whistles when he gets too far.

[Mordineon]: "Why don't we let Russeth scout ahead, then have Gremag in the front, Feragan in the middle, me on the right, and Zakren on the left

[Russeth]: "Once we are outside Harrowdale, we will do that, I suppose." He shrugs.

You travel better part of the day where you can see the sun heading farther onward into the western skies. A gentle breeze blows across the land as the steep sways back and fourth from the swirling winds. Many small birds can be seen flying up into the air only to land again in the fields not far off as they hunt for their dinner before the night skies.

[Feragan]: "Shall we camp?"

Russeth carefully watches in the distance, hoping his eyes will meet the houses of Velarsburg, as he is a hundred feet ahead of the others, he has his bow in hands in case of emergency.

Russeth looks back at the others and stops.

Zakren looks at the elf..."Well...found anything?"

[Russeth]: "No, but I thought since the night was about to come, we should get closer."

Zakren hums to himself..."Closer to what?"

Russeth raises an eyebrow "Closer from each other, if I stay that far you won't see me anymore when the darkness comes... Which is no good." He rubs his eyes and looks at the surroundings "Maybe we could camp for the night instead."

You sit about talking of moving or not as you hear the wine of an ass near by.

Mordineon brings his sling to the ready

Russeth puts his hands to his hip and looks about for the ass in question. "Good, I hear an ass it must be a caravan."

Looking around you sees a lone figure pulling a mule in tow towards you.

[Feragan]: "I should have memorized something...."

Zakren coughs..."Weren't you the scout?"

[Russeth]: "Yeah, " he pauses and sighs "But if you haven't yet realized I stopped to wait for you. And I'm not scared of a man with his mule."

Hawk " ya never said I was hired "

Zakren shrugs at the ass man..."Well...we aren't actually paying you either..."

Mordineon moves to Feragan, "we should have let you memorize a spell"

Russeth looks up at the man "And whatever. He was behind us!"

Hawk " then who is paying me? "

Hawk yeah, and would have walked up on ye if my ass hadn't bayed"

[Russeth]: "Have you been contracted by the clerk?" He stretches his arm. "We should not stay here, we are an easy target." He looks around.

[Zakren]: "Hmm. no one now, you had to sign the parchment at the trading house..." He scratches his chin...

The screeches of bats can be heard as they dart about in the sky chasing down their food for the night.

[Russeth]: "Well, sir. If you wish to help us in this crusade against the bandits, I will give you my share of the contract." He smiles and nods his head once.

Hawk " well shit! "

[Mordineon]: "I would prefer it if we did not argue about this in the middle of the road when Bandits are know to frequent the area."

[Feragan]: "Well, we have two options...keep moving or camp here"

Zakren glances at his surroundings..."I doubt the bandits are between Velarsburg and Harrowdale. I think they will be west of the small logging town."

Gremag looks around grunting.

[Mordineon]: "Never the less, I say we camp in a more secure place"

Zakren points north..."Let's go 30 feet in that direction and set up camp."

Hawk takes out is lantern and lights it up

Mordineon shrugs, "very well"

Gremag looks around the forest with infra vision

Gremag makes sure his back is to the lantern when he does it

Hawk " we camping or not?’

Zakren shies away from the light and blinks repeatedly..."Ahh damn...warn me next time." He rubs his eyes.

[Feragan]: "lets camp"

Zakren begins to head north to camp.

Russeth nods in agreement "I will make sure the area around is not too occupied." He silently moves away from the party and inspects the ground in the surrounding, looking for tracks in the area.

Hawk " pray ah don't fart around this lantern, I have been drinking! "

Mordineon moves around and looks for a comfortable place to set up

Gremag follows quietly after Russeth looking around.

[Zakren]: After about 30 feet north of the road, Zakren stops and settles against a tree..."Well this is as good a place as any."

Feragan sets up a small tent, while eating some bread.

Hawk sets up his camp and looks for some fire wood

Russeth turns around and looks at Gremag "You should stay with the others." As he begins making his way toward Zakren. "Good camping spot?"

Zakren shrugs..."There's a tree for me and places for the tents...it's fine."

Mordineon sets up his blanket about 10 feet away from the group and begins praying

Gremag sets up his tent "just because I am journeying doesn’t mean I have to trust you"

Hawk returns with fire wood and builds a fire

You talk about your ideas and plans as you pitch tents for the night.

[Gremag]: "anyone got some spare metal?"

Russeth assembles his tent not far away from the tree with his usual smile impregnated upon his face. "I will take our first watch of the night." He takes out a folded sheet and unfolds it, revealing enough rations for a couple of days. He takes a chunk of dried and spiced meat and shoves it in his mouth. "Ah, this is very good."

Gremag takes out a ration and eats the dried bar, "Anyone?"

[Feragan]: "I was wondering if anyone could spare a ration?"

Zakren sits against a tree and dozes off.

Mordineon finishes praying and takes out a ration and eats it

Hawk " I’ll take second watch " and cooks his ration over the fire

[Mordineon]: "I will take last watch"

Russeth tosses a chunk of meat at Feragan "Have at it, my friend."

Russeth admires his wineskin for a second and pours some of its content down his throat; he wipes the remaining around his mouth with his surcoat sleeves.

Gremag finishes the bar then takes a long swig from the water skin shrugging.

[Feragan]: "Thank you" Takes the ration and drinks some of my water.

[Feragan]: "How long until morning do you suppose?"

[Russeth]: Once he is done with his dinner, Russeth leaves the range of sight of the fire.

Mordineon looks around to see who has fallen asleep

You sit by the fire talking as Zakren sleeps and Russeth wonders just outside the campfire light.

Feragan goes to bed in his tent.

Gremag retreats to his tent and sleeps "call me when it is my watch"

Hawk goes to bed

Russeth lurks around the camp a bit, looking for the perfect spot as he looks up the tree. "Maybe I can establish myself up there." He smiles "I will give it a try."

Mordineon moves away from the group to his blanket and tries to go to sleep

Everyone finally gets settled down for the night as Russeth stands watch peering out into the darkness.

Hawk " ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZzzzzzzzz FFFEEEEERRRTTTT! "

Gremag wakes up startled "what is it?" grabs for his sword

Hawk" zzzzZZZZZFEEERRRTTTT! " cough, cough! "

Russeth climbs back down the tree and comes by Gremags tent; he wakes him up and informs him it is his turn. He then makes his way to his tent and lies peacefully and with grace, his dog also by the tent's door.

You wake to see your comrade sleeping as you feel the early morning dew that covers you. The sun peaks into the sky in the east giving you a little warmth upon your bones. With the night being all but quiet you are able to move onward after a good nights sleep.

Gremag lies asleep snoring into the wind.

Mordineon packs up his belongings and has a quick prayer

Zakren gets up with a yawn and he stretches as he looks at his surroundings.

Russeth stretches his neck and legs, after what he wakes his sleeping hunting dog and gathers his things. "I can sense some good weather today." He looks up the sky, "We should get moving quickly."

Hawk Breaks camp and packs it on his ass

Russeth disassembles his tent quickly and stuffs it within his pack "I think we should keep this area in mind, with this single tree, it's a very good encampment location for any further travel to Harrowdale."

Mordineon moves to the group, "I think we need to elect a leader to make some common decisions, such as where to camp, marching order, etc."

Russeth raises an eyebrow and stays silent.

Mordineon remains under his hood; "It is essential to have some structure."

Feragan packs up his stuff and drink some water*

Zakren shrugs..."I don't believe we have to have structure...we'll make it up as we go along..."

[Mordineon]: "Our group has promise, but every good group needs a leader and we have done nothing but bicker since we met!"

[Feragan]: "I say a simply vote between our members is enough when we have to make decisions"

Russeth rinses his mouth using his waterskin and spits the water in an opposite direction of the group. "I think what Zakren says is right."

[Mordineon]: "very well"

[Russeth]: "What makes you think we need a leader this bad Mordineon? I think we can live without one... Each of us will be leader in a given situation."

[Mordineon]: "Very well then, we shall each be a leader."

[Feragan]: "Agreed, but I think we should settle another issue"

Russeth throws his backpack over his shoulders with a smile "There, you got it. I say we move westward now, before night falls again!"

[Feragan]: "What shall be the name of our band?"

Russeth pauses and looks Feragan over carefully.

Zakren looks to the west and answers without turning..."We can think about that as we walk."

[Feragan]: "Alright, than lets move on...shall we?"

Mordineon moves to the west a ways then waits for the group

You travel along the beaten trail now on a north ward trek as the trail turns when around midday you see off to the east on the horizon small billows of smoke trailing into the sky, maybe ten in all. When before to long you see another trail breaking off the northern path heading eastward.

Russeth smiles sheepishly "We shall be named the West walkers."

Russeth calls his dog, which comes running in his direction and slides on the ground at his feet, he then proceeds onward as well.

Zakren looks to the path to the east..."Do we stop in Velarsburg?" He looks to the others for a response.

Hawk " why not"

[Feragan]: "ok"

[Russeth]: "If you think we will be able to gather some important information there we will go, else there is no reason to widen our trip."

[Mordineon]: "I think we should continue our search for the bandits"

[Feragan]: "We can learn of the recent events in the area...and I can prepare a spell..."

Hawk " we might catch the bandits there"

[Zakren]: "There is...I need rations." On that last word, he begins to make his way towards the small hamlet.

[Feragan]: "I need rations also"

Russeth shakes head at Feragan "Why didn't you do that back at the campsite?" He turns to Zakren "Alrighty then."

Feragan follows Zakren

Mordineon follows reluctantly

You travel down the eastern trail a few hours or so when you see the smoke pillows spew out of the tops of several small wooden cabins and buildings.

Hawk follows group

[Feragan]: "How long shall we stay?"

Russeth nods to himself as he walks side by side with Zakren "This must be Velarsburg, I suppose."

Hawk investigates

Zakren nods to Russeth..."Must be...I heard of this place in the rumors...Let's find a tavern for some rations and information’s." He walks around the town in search of a tavern or Inn.

Feragan follows Zakren

You make your way down into the small village where you see the local kids running about in the shadows of the falling sun as you stroll down the main trail.

Russeth shrugs "As you wish, Zakren."

Mordineon follows about 20 feet behind the group looking for anything of interest

Looking down one of the side trails you see the lit sign of the Axe Head Inn.

Moving up to the structure you can hear from with in the sounds of laughter and heavy tones of speech.

Russeth smiles at the sight of the running children and sighs. His attention is then brought back to Zakren and the Inn. He looks into the street for any chariots or caravans.

Hawk " shall we "

Feragan enters the inn

Zakren nods to the human and enter the tavern.

Hawk follows them in after tying up his ass.

[Russeth]: After a quick inspection of the road he penetrates the inn behind the others.

Mordineon sees the group enter the inn and follows them in

Feragan looks for the owner

Hawk heads straight for the bar

Stepping into the inn you see a half dozen large burly men dressed in thick clothing all sitting at the bar. At the side of each man stands a large axe. The keep stands behind the bar speaking with the men as he looks over to the door upon your arrival.

"Ah can I get ye anything my good lads?" Walking to the end of the bar near the door.

Hawk " aye an ale "

[Feragan]: "Yes, I need a cheap room, and a week of rations if you can."

Zakren moves up to the bar..."Hello Keep, do you sell dry rations here?"

Russeth raises his hand a bit in approval "A pitcher of wine for my friends, perhaps?"

"Ahh I can help you there but that will cost you 6 gold for the food and room. Might you have such coin their lad?" The man leans in with a growing smile.

[Feragan]: "All I have is 5 gold, is that enough good sir?"

Russeth takes out 3 gold pieces and gives them to Zakren, "I will pay for half, maybe we can share room. And you will owe me some food later!" He smiles and walks to a table.

Mordineon moves towards the bar, observing the men and keeping his face well hidden

The man reaches below the bar and pulls out a pitcher vase and several mugs as he places them on the bar. "5 Silver sir."

Zakren leans against the bar..."How much for one day's rations?"

Russeth spins a gold coin in the direction of the bartender and walks over to him. He grabs the pitcher and waits for his change.

[Feragan]: "OK, take the 3 and add 3 gold of mine and gives it to the barkeep."

Mordineon looks over to Zakren and says, "I will give you a day or two of rations."

Hawk " do ya serve dinner here too?'

"1 gold for three good meals dried breads, meats and fresh picked gus-gus."

[Russeth]: Once the deal has been made he moves to the earlier table and sets the mug in front of the chairs "Get over here when you are all done, we can discuss further plans."

"Aye we have meals what is it you wish sir?"

Zakren sighs and shakes his head to the barkeep..."Never mind."

[Feragan]: "Well, gentlemen, IM going to my room to do a bit or preparation, come get me if anything important happens"

Hawk " some roast beast and spuds "

Russeth nods at Feragan, a little sad he doesn't want wine, and then pulls back a chair for himself.

Feragan goes to his room, pulls out his spell book, and begins to memorize magic missile

Mordineon walks from the bar to the table and sits down, carefully watching the men at the bar

"Good choice it will be up shortly. Please have a seat and enjoy." He makes his way back down to the others and refills their drinks.

Zakren looks to the man sitting at the bar..."Does anyone have dices to gamble...I've got some silvers to lose."

Hawk " nay "

Soon after the keep goes into a back room calling out some food orders to someone else in the back as you hear the shuffle of crates and things being moved around.

[Russeth]: Once the atmosphere has calmed a little bit he glances at Zakren "Hey, there's something I've been wanting to try, it would require me to know your birth date, Zakren."

Zakren sighs..."Well there's goes my chance of getting some easy money." He goes to sit down at a table.

Zakren tells him his birth date, wondering why he wants to know.

[Russeth]: As he waits for an answer he adds, "Oh and by the way, are we staying here for a day?"

A short time later the keep returns bringing over a large plate of roasted beast and potato’s covered in some sort of glaze. On the side is a half of loaf of bread. "Here you go sir sorry for the wait."

Hawk No problem "

[Mordineon]: "So we are staying for the night?"

[Hawk]: " what do ah owe you? "

Russeth raises his glass as usual. "To a good and long friendship!" He smiles and turns at Mordineon "I think so."

Hawk " aye we can stay a night"

Zakren shakes his near empty purse..."I'm sure am not...I'll camp by the road."

"5 silver sir, that will do it. Any thing else I can get you?"

Mordineon stands up, walks over to the barkeep and asks "How much for a room for the night?"

[Russeth]: "Alright Zakren, I will camp with you, and you can then know why I requested your Birth Date." He grins sheepishly

[Hawk]:" what's a room cost? "

"The room is one gold sir. " Telling Mordineon as he walks to the bar while the keep serves Hawk.

Mordineon reaches into his pouch, hands the man a gold coin and asks which room is his

Hawk pays the keep for the meal and the room

"You may take the one on the left near the end. Your other friend should be in the end one." pointing to the old stairs leading up.

[Mordineon]: "what time is it sir? Are the rooms locked?"

The keep walks by the door and looks out before returning to the bar. "Its night time."

[Russeth]: "Good night guys, we will see you tomorrow morning and we can discuss further." He turns at Zakren "Shall we go?"

"The rooms lock from the inside sir have a good night sleep."

Hawk finishes his meal and heads to bed

Zakren turns to Russeth..."We forgot one thing." He walks over to the barkeep and asks him something quietly.

Most of you retire for the night if not already done so as Russeth and Zakren stay and speak with the keep.

Mordineon turns to Zakren and Russeth, "if you need me I will be in my room" then walks off

Russeth leans close to the barkeep with Zakren and hides him from the men at the bar.

Zakren scratches his chin and talks some more.

Zakren nods to the barkeep.

You sit about talking as Mordineon returns from his room.

Zakren turns to Russeth..."I'm ready...shall we go?"

Zakren waves to Mordineon..."We'll see you tomorrow."

Mordineon sits down at the bar and asks for some beef and stew

Russeth nods as he follows Zakren to the door "Aye, we go. Fare thee well Mordineon."

Mordineon doesn’t look up. "Good night"

"Ahh good choice it will be a few they are cleaning up in the back. Here have a drink while you wait." Slides, the mug, down to in front Mordineon and fills it.

[Mordineon]: "Thank you sir."

Mordineon brings his head up, "Barkeep, have you heard any news about the bandit raids?"

Hawk " zzzzzzzZZZZZZZZ "

You are all woke up by the banging upon your door. "Time to get up every body up!" As the sound echo’s in the hallway as he makes his way to the other rooms.

Feragan gets up, washes his face, gets dressed, and puts on his gear, and than heads downstairs...

Hawk " yawn BUUURRPPP! " scratches " FEEERRRRTTTT! "

Hawk gets up and dress's and goes down stairs for some breakfast

Mordineon prepares himself for the day and goes down to the main bar

Feragan orders a large breakfast

Making your way back down to the bar you see a large pot of eggs and several plates stack next to it with some mugs and a large pitcher. On a smaller plate you see what appears to be smoked links.

Feragan eats until his heart is content

"Foods free help your self we don't cook any thing special in the mornings." The keep goes back to wiping down the bar and the tables from the night before.

Hawk bellies up to the bar and sys " Morning " to the barkeep

Mordineon makes himself a plate and sits by himself thinking about what to do

Hawk has a plate of breakfast

Zakren eats his fill since he knows his next meal might be awhile away.

[Russeth]: As you all make your way down into the tavern, Russeth walks in by the front door and greets everyone with a warm smile. "How is everyone doing this fine morning?"

Hawk " good "

[Feragan]: "Your cheerfulness is amazing to say the least"

Hawk 'He must of found a wench last night. "

[Feragan]: "... Russeth, next time let me know, I'll come with ya..."

Russeth blushes a bit and sits down at the table; he takes a deep breath. "Hmmm." he rubs his hands together "... what to taste first?"

Mordineon finishes his meal, then moves over to the group. "When are we leaving?"

[Feragan]: "As soon as we are done eating"

Hawk finishes breakfast

Zakren says between two mouth fills of food..."When we finish eating."

[Mordineon]: "The barkeep said the bandits have been raiding about a days travel back and up the northern trail."

Hawk " then lets go and give them the GIFT "

[Feragan]: "So we can catch em' in a day or two...What gift?"

Russeth drops an egg onto his plate and raises his voice "Then there we shall go, and reveal their hideout!"

Hawk ' The gift of COMBAT! "

[Mordineon]: walking out the Inn door says, "I will be waiting."

[Feragan]: "Alright, IM ready to unleash some damage, let’s go"

Again you wake to a fine sunny day as a gentle breeze blows down from the north bringing some of the chill with it. As you eat and prepare for another day along the trail. If your calculations are correct you should reach the edge of the Cormanthor Forest by nightfall with the small detour to Velarsburg costing your daylight approach.

[Russeth]: "Here is an idea that I have come up with during my meditation last night." He pauses, takes a bit of eggs and smiles ". We could find the next caravan that wishes to pass by this trail and we could hide within it, when the bandits bring themselves into the trap, we will have the advantage of surprise even more!"

Hawk gets his ass " sounds good."

[Feragan]: "That’s actually a pretty good idea..."

Russeth grabs a small bit of egg and drops it into his dog's mouth. "Good dog." He rubs his hands and removes the remains "The question is, which caravan will try and travel with us on the Halfaxe trail?"

Mordineon walks back into the Inn and sits near the group

[Russeth]: "Perhaps the tavern keeper can help us there, and provide us with a chariot or something of the like."

Hawk walks back in

[Feragan]: "What are we going to do with a chariot?"

[Mordineon]: "That is what I was wondering?"

Zakren scratches his chin..."Maybe someone should ask the keep if travelers vanished too or only caravans."

Hawk stretches " FEEERRRTTT!" " Aye "

[Russeth]: "Pretend we are a caravan. Hide our strength. And <BOOM>." he claps his hands together ". Done with the bandits!"

[Feragan]: "Nothing is ever that easy in life..."

[Mordineon]: "That is unless, there are 20 bandits."

[Feragan]: "Exactly.... If we go just as ourselves, we will be able to use stealth"

Russeth nods with a smile "That could always be true Mordineon. But that's just an idea I had during my sleep you know."

Hawk "FFEEERRRTTT ", " Aye, stealth is good "

[Mordineon]: "I agree with Feragan, our best chance is to find their camp and deal with them with better odds, not all of them verse all of us."

The keep makes his way by cleaning up the plates and mugs that you have used.

Russeth nods as he reaches for his waterskin and pours some down his throat. He then closes his eyes.