[Sat Jun 09 20:28:39 GMT+00:00 2001]

You wake to another day although not sun filled like the past few days but with the skies filled with a blanket of clouds as the sun tries to peek through them. There is a brisk wind blowing in from the northwest as the waves of grass blow towards the sea. Birds of prey can be seen flying high over the land peering down with their powerful eyes in search of breakfast. With the beast dispatched and wounds tended you are ready to move on to the village.

[Isreal]: 'good city life for a little while I could use a change of pace, and time away from the wood"

Zakren stretches as he gathers his gear and says from behind his hood..."Well, we're finally back to a town."

[Isreal]: "shall we head out Russeth to the village"

[Elina]: "A trip to the village will be good."

Russeth has already begun to don his armor, tightening his sleeves he sighs, watching in direction of the town. "This looks like another fine day." He nods to himself and walks slowly towards his campsite where he has packed his gear. "Yes Isreal. We are going now." He whistles calling the dog as he begins marching forward.

You move out in the early morning light setting your course for the logging village. Strolling along the trails you talking of past deeds and how to improve your abilities, and all the small things of life that past the time. Finding yourself marching right into midday where you can see the rise of smoke from the local's chimneys of Velarsburg rolling over the hills of grass. With in the hour you find yourself entering the outskirts of the small village as the locals tend the fields with the up coming harvest. Every so often you can hear the fall of a tree off in the distance as the leaves fly into the sky above the treetops of the Velarwood.

[Isreal]: "AH that’s is a welcome sight a break from the beasts of the forest"

Elina eagerly looks around her. "Ah a peaceful little town. I wonder if they have anything of magic here."

Russeth smiles widely as he enters the town, but then narrows his eyes as he hears the tree fall off. "Here we are. In town what shall we do first, my friends?" He glares at Zakren's pouch for an instant.

[Isreal]: "no telling what riches lay in this town what new challenges lay in the humbly village " laughing loudly

Making your way into town seeing most of the locals out tending fields on the way in, you assume the children are as well since none of them are running around playing in the streets of the village like before. Just ahead is the old familiar sign of the Axe Head Inn; the sign is currently not lit as the sun still shines down upon you.

Zakren shakes his head..."I doubt it..."

[Isreal]: "well I say split the loot an get supplies remember the fallen dwarf by buying him a head stone an rest before we head out to the gem".

Russeth nods in Zakren's direction. "Say Cleric, will you see to the group's gems? See if you can find a price similar or higher to Elina's approximation alright?" He waits for an answer before he continues.

Zakren scratches his chin in thoughtful contemplation..."We need to find out what kind of shops are in town."

Zakren turns to the ranger..."That's IF there's a permanent jeweler in town."

Russeth nods, scanning the area. "Aye, that is what I meant. See if there is one. We will all meet back in the inn after our business, Alrighty?"

Zakren looks about the streets for one of Velarsburg's inhabitants.

[Elina]: "Is there any shops around where I can top up my components?

[Isreal]: "if not I could look for a guild to sale to them it will be less than a jeweler but still money in our pocket".

Zakren turns back to the ranger..."Where will you be?"

[Isreal]: "my lady you have but to look for them in the wild components are better hand selected".

Russeth raises an eyebrow, as he looks above the treetops and the sky farther. "I will be looking for information on the tower."

Looking around the small rustic village you see the inn, a bakery, blacksmith, general store, and several mills for woodcutting.

[Elina]: "Not all components can be found in the wild Isreal." Elina gives Isreal a sweet smile.

Zakren shrugs to the ranger..."You really want people to know where we're going?"

Russeth notices the general store and smiles. "No. But I want us to know where we're going."

[Isreal]: "well lets split the loot an head to the general store they would know of anyone looking to buy gems for there lovers "

Zakren leans on Russeth's shoulder..."Well...sorry to break this to you...but there isn't a jeweler in town."

Isreal looks at the people in the village

[Isreal]: "great I am like a kid in a candy shop " laughing.

Elina places her delicate hand upon Russeth. "I will go around and look for some components. Where should I meet you?"

Zakren shakes his head..."By what Elina told us...the gems aren't worth the same amount..."

[Isreal]: "my lady you should not head off alone I say we split up in 2 groups an meet back at the inn"

Russeth shakes his head at Isreal and then glares from the corner of his eyes at the hand. "The inn would be most proper." He pauses a moment to look at Elina's face more thoroughly than before and smiles, then turns to Zakren. "Well then keep them for later, Zakren."

Elina nods in reluctant agreement. "Well maybe the ranger would like to accompany me?"

[Mordineon]: "Yeah well you do what you must and give me my share later I’m going to the inn." Turning away he heads for the inn.

[Isreal]: "sure Zak you can help me look for a decent bow to acquire"

Elina gives Russeth a sweet little smile in return.

Zakren nods to Russeth..."I'll still check out the general store to see if they'll exchange them for money."

[Isreal]: "so what’s the shares?"

Feragan turns and looks to Mordineon then back again, "Yeah that sounds like a good idea." HEY Mord! Wait up." Heading off towards the inn.

Russeth raises an eyebrow and crosses his arms over his chest. He finally nods at Elina, "Alrighty, I shall. Zakren, share the money now, enough with the complaints from the greedy thief." He smiles.

Isreal "I am with you Zak maybe a well stocked general store. Well I would not be my self if I were not greedy " smiling back

Elina raise an eyebrow back at Russeth. "Well if it bothers you, perhaps I should go alone?"

Russeth shakes his head slightly. "I will come with you. Zakren, keep my share safely in your pockets until I come back."

Russeth steps aside, leaving towards wherever Elina had intentions to go. "Everyone meet at the inn, after your personal business."

[Isreal]: "well good luck"

Zakren walks over to the large building with the general store sign.

Entering into the general store you see an old dusty shop stocked with axe handles, and select, heads mounted on the wall. Bolts of cloth and ropes and several other types of household needs. Behind the counter is a large round human male of some age standing before you with a long flowing brown beard adorning his chest. The man stands up from his chair and looks toward you.

Zakren turns to the thief..."Come on...we'll get some money at the general store to exchange the shares equally."

Elina gives Russeth a smile and heads towards a sandy spot to choose some fine sand. After a few minutes of careful selection, she places her choice into her pouch.

[Isreal]: "hello sir I was wondering if you would have some need of a few gems?"

[Elina]: "What is your sword made of Russeth?"

[Shop Keep]: "Gems? What can I do with gems sir do you wish to buy something, you need coins."

[Isreal]: "My name is Isreal an yours? Yes if you would take the gems an give us a fair price".

Russeth glares down at the lady gathering components. "That's funny I figured you wanted to go to a component shop. Guess I'm not that good of a wizard." He laughs sharply and quickly stops, "Oh hmm. My sword is made of steel." He smiles.

Zakren leans on the counter..."Can you make some change first of all? And don't worry we'll buy something."

[Shop Keep]: "I know nothing about gems and there worth, go see a jeweler this is a general store." Making his way back to his chair and sitting down again.

[Isreal]: "sure we will buy something"

Elina gives Russeth a quire look. "Hmmm I don't see any such shops around. Is there one?" Elina giggles at Russeth.

[Isreal]: "well old man you never gave me your name "

Russeth shakes his head. "Well hmmm." He smiles, bringing a hand to his opposite elbow and letting the other arm falling straight down. "Guess not."

[Shop Keep]: "Blah, travelers..." Mumbling to him self as he rocks back in his chair waiting for you to buy something or leave with the look upon his face making it ever so evident.

Russeth continues looking down upon the lady gathering components. "Have you enough for now, m'lady?"

[Isreal]: "well like my friend Zak said will you make break this money for us or not?"

Elina giggles at Russeth again as she brushes the sand upon her palms at the helm of her skirt. "Well, is there an armor shop around? Maybe there will be some powdered iron. The spell I have might come in handy."

Russeth smiles back at the lass and looks over to the blacksmith, he looks impressed by her knowledge as he glares around and points to the blacksmith. "Perhaps there, however I doubt we will find it powered. Still, let's give it a try." He walks side by side towards the shop.

[Isreal]: "this is no good the old man can’t change his shirt how will he make change for us Zak"

Zakren leans forward on the counter..."Hey can you make some change for us...we gathered a lot of coins but we need to share it...and as I said...we'll buy something."

Zakren rolls his eyes at Isreal..."Wait outside...will ya?"

Russeth leaves Elina to her business as he just follows around, watching her every move.

[Isreal]: "no I need some things I have my own coins"

Elina tile her head side to the left, letting her blonde hair falls to one side. Giving her head a twist, her smooth blonde hair waves neatly behind her. "Ok lets take a look."

[Shop Keep]: "Hmm, what kind of change are we talking about there? Young lad." Standing up and making his way to the counter.

Druid tired of waiting outside, heads to the General store.

Zakren takes out a large pouch of coins and looks through it.

Zakren looks up..."I need 182 gold, 63 silvers and 63 coppers from this..."

Druid walks into the General store. She stops to greet Isreal with a smile and walks over to Zakren.

[Elina]: "Russeth, will you do me a favor and ask if the blacksmith could make me some powdered iron?" Elina blinks at Russeth.

[Shop Keep]: "Have you lost your mind lad? Where did you get such coins, I don't have that kind of coin here. "I be lucky to see 20 gold in a months time hehe." Laughing as he glares down at your pile of coins.

Isreal says not a word to druid and keeps shopping

[Druid]: "Then surely we will have no trouble purchasing from your fine store". She winks at Zakren.

Zakren grins at the keep and looks around the shop..."How much is this place worth then?"

Druid chuckles

[Shop Keep]: "Heh didn't say you could spend it here lass I just can't help in changing it." Smiling over towards Druid.

Zakren takes out five platinum pieces..."Can you at least change these?"

Druid returns the smile. "Nevertheless, do you have a list of your inventory I might peruse through, good sir?"

[Shop Keep]: "Heh oh its not the money I have spent many years here that to me is expensive, but if you wish to buy the stock I’m sure we can work something out." Grinning widely.

Zakren grins at the man..."I doubt I can afford it yet but maybe in two weeks..." He chuckles and attaches his pouch back to his belt.

[Isreal]: "well Zak break it out as even as you can I will take less of a share I need a few things an I need them now".

[Shop Keep]: "If you go south a day or two Harrowdale might be able to help you with your money changing but not in this village."

Zakren nods to the man..."Alright...where are the arrows?"

Isreal hands the mane his gold an asks for the goods he mentioned an then kindly asks where can one find a decent bow around these part?"

[Shop Keep]: "Hmm, don't have any arrows." Saying quickly as he points over to a rug. "That there is hand woven."

Zakren glances at it for a brief..."I don't have a house..."

[Isreal]: "well its a nice rug what about a bow where can a hard working man get one in these parts"

[Shop Keep]: "Look around you son what do you see. We have axes; we have saws this is a logging town not some rich to do good place. What you see is what’s for sale."

[Druid]: "Sir...where might I find some salt?"

Russeth bows his head at the man, looking down at what he is currently working on "Good afternoon, good sir. Me and my friend were wondering if it was possible to find powdered iron here, at your shop?"

Russeth also glares down at his belt where his short sword hangs almost freely. "I was also wondering if you provide sheaths alone, for us who might have lost one?" He smiles, looking a bit shyly, to ask.

[Isreal]: "but you live here right or did the store just pop up surely you know the people in the town an you could point me to someone that sales weapons of what I ask"

[Shop Keep]: "Is something wrong with that lad, did he not understand?" Looking to the rest of you.

[Druid]: "Isreal...try the wood mill. There may be a bowyer or fletcher there. Sir, do you sell salt and butter here?"

[Shop Keep]: "I have salt there is no butter here. The salt is in the cask over there.

Isreal shrugs at druid words an says well Zak what next?"

Zakren hands Isreal, druid and Russeth some coins..."There you go..."

Druid walks over and opens the cask, filling two vials with salt, before walking back to the counter. "How much for these two vials, sir?"

[Shop Keep]: "hmm, copper I guess never had one buy so little."

[Druid]: "Thank you Zakren". Druid grins coyly at Zakren. Well...I suppose I could get some more..."

Russeth walks past Elina, looking down the road. "Let us head to the inn and wait for the others. Shall we?" He smiles at Elina, and begins walking slowly down the street.

[Druid]: "Do you have a bigger container, then? I just have vials and a few small bottles."

[Shop Keep]: "It salt comes in sacks lass."

[Isreal]: "well thanks "

[Elina]: "I still need to get some peas and salt from the general store if I may?" Elina returns Russeth's smile.

Zakren shrugs..."Nothing else for me here...See you at the inn..." He leaves the shop and walks over to the inn.

[Druid]: "Well...I don't know if I really need that much, but I suppose others could use it."

Russeth stops midway, noticing the bakery. He nods at Elina, "I just realized I'm close to being out of rations, go to the general store with the others, I will go to the bakery."

[Druid]: "I'll take two sacks please."

Isreal heads for the blacksmiths

[Shop Keep]: "Hmm that’s one pound bags lass?" Looking at her intently.

[Elina]: "Will the journey which we are going to take be long and food scares?" Elina looks questioningly at Russeth, knowing within her heart that he will have the answer.

Druid looks back at the shopkeeper. "Yes. Two one-pound bags."

Elina shakes her head at Russeth. "No, I will come with you to the bakery first. I love the whiff of fresh bread."

Russeth heads directly towards the bakery, bowing his head politely at the peasants he might meet on his way. He turns and walks backward as he gets away from lady, "Not that I know of, but the sooner I have some, the better." He grins and waves once at the lady, "I will be right back with..." He notices the lady wishes to come and smiles, stopping his motion he waits for her before heading forward.

[Shop Keep]: "That will be two copper there lass you fill your own sack." Handing you two small sacks for the salt.

Druid walks over to the cask. While filling the two sacks, she inquires about whether the store carries any peas.

[Shop Keep]: "We do not harvest peas in this area more so your wheat’s and sweet grain for the animals."

Elina notices Russeth courteous await her and smiles. With one fluent motion, she glides pass Russeth, letting her hairbrushes pass Russeth's face.

Druid nods her disappointment. "Do you know of anyone who owns some peas then? Surely some folk in the area import some goods."

Russeth looks quite happy as she passes by; he remains motionless for a moment with a smile and then shakes himself back to reality and runs behind the lady until he catches up. "We will wait till everyone is done with their business and all go together to the bakery, what do you say?"

Elina stops her graceful stride and turns to face Russeth. "Well maybe we should meet them at the inn then?"

Isreal stops at the well to fill hit wineskins

[Shop Keep]: "I'm sorry lass but you must be mistaking me for a gypsy who can read minds and futures hehe" Laughing at your comments of peas.

[Shop Keep]: "Heh, well don't see that everyday." laughing still as he sits down in his chair once more.

Russeth glares down the road and smiles to himself. "It isn't that long of a road through town, we can just call them here as soon as they come out of shops." He continues smiling.

Druid grins at the shopkeeper. "Ah well. I must be off. Thank you very much for the salt. It will be put to good use." She gives the shopkeeper one last smile before walking sensuously out the door for the shopkeeper's benefit.

Elina giggles politely. "Silly me. Yes it’s not a big town after all." Winking her shiny, blue-greenish right eye at Russeth.

Isreal pulls the bucket from the well an fills his skins an looks up at the sky an decides to head to the inn

Russeth giggles back at Elina, with a motion of his hand he offers her a seat on the Bakery's steps. "You just rest on here, I'll keep my eyes open." He glares over at the general store's door.

You all meet up in the small road in the center of the village.

[Isreal]: "well this town is to small to do anything in its no fun at all an all the people act like jackasses"

Russeth went to the inn, for whoever was already there, and brought them to the bakery steps. "Alrighty then. Who wants to buy some rations for our further trip?"

Druid walks over quickly to the blacksmith.

Elina approaches Druid and gives her a gentle hug. "I got some spell components for you dear."

Druid stops at Elina's approach.

Zakren shares the coins with everyone since they are all gathered.

[Druid]: "Thank you very much. I also got you some salt, my dear." She returns the hug.

Elina giggles and thank Druid heartily.

Zakren looks up as he counts and shares..."I could use some."

Russeth nods in a thankful motion at Zakren. "Thank you Zakren. Alright everyone, tonight I shall pay for everyone's food!" He smiles happily as he tosses the coins into a pouch.

[Druid]: "Perhaps we should buy the cask then?"

[Isreal]: "well isn’t this lovely get together all the hugs an what not I hope you have found all you need Elina I will head to the inn to get a bite an something stronger to drink"

Druid gives Isreal a hug. Rest, my friend. You've earned it.

[Zakren]: "So? Where can we get food again?"

[Hawk]: "FFFAAAARRRRTTT" Sniffing and looking around at the others before shrugging.

Isreal pulls away from druid lay your hands on me again woman and I will lay your jaw to the ground.

Elina smiles at Russeth's generosity. Wondering if this is the same guy whom had leaded them into battle after battle.

Russeth motions towards the bakery with his head. "We can get good food there, and tonight we'll eat at the inn. I am going there now, anything I should get you?"

[Hawk]: "I should buy an ass since you all wouldn't help me get mine back."

Isreal walks off to the inn

Druid stands stunned at Isreal's comment.

Russeth glares at Hawk in awe and shakes his head. "I was gonna buy your ass back, if it was yours, but you absolutely wanted to provoke the man."

Zakren turns to walk to the bakery and yells back..."Just food for me."

[Elina]: Leans close to Russeth, with her sweet breath upon his left ear. "Could you get me some fine bread please?"

Russeth nods at Zakren, "Just food. Geez, I'm going in a bakery, what else could I buy but food?"

[Hawk]: "Blah they were thieves." Shaking his leg he follows you to the bakery."

Russeth nods without thinking as he hears the words. He then darts within the bakery.

You make your way into the bakery getting the sweet smell of fresh breads and pastries, The shelves are lined with sweet rolls and sugar buns, and several types of round and flat breads lay upon the counters.

Isreal walks in the in an takes a place at a table an orders a wine an a meal with fresh cooked meat

Druid enters the blacksmith and looks around carefully at the store.

Russeth glares around, seeking the owner of the shop he smells all around, and brings his sight upon the sugar buns, licking his lips. "I'm definitely getting some of those."

You can hear some shuffling in the back behind the counter as an old frail lady makes her way with small steps to the front of the shop.

Zakren looks around for the baker.

Elina stares after Russeth's disappearing figure and lets out a slow sigh.

Russeth reaches into his pouch, taking out ten gold pieces and spinning one with his thumb and forefinger. "Excuse me?" He calls out as he hears the lady comes.

Elina takes out a small metal bowl and places it in front of her as she starts to sing a lovely love song. Hoping that she may gain some coppers in return for her lovely voice.

[Baker]: "Ahh yes can I help you folk today?' Speaking with an old crackling voice.

Russeth smiles at the lady and points to the sugar buns on the counters. "How much are these wonderfully smelling pastries, my good lady?"

Zakren smiles to the lady..."Aye I'd wish to have some traveling bread."

[Baker]: "They are 6 for a copper and the breads are over there young man the ones on the left are 5 copper and the ones on the right are 1 silver coin. They are fresh." Smiling to you all as she gestures at the baked goods.

Russeth smiles back at the lady and makes his picks. "I will then take twelve sugar buns, and four of the fresh breads on the right." He quickly calculates the price. "Here you go." He hands her 4 silver and 2 copper pieces.

Zakren ponders over his choice a moment and looks at the bread...

You look over the goods while Elina sings in the store over her small bowl.

[Russeth]: "Shall I carry them in my hands or you provide sacks and such?" He smiles "Oh and what about rations, can I find them here, or shall I have to look at the inn?"

[Baker]: "I only sell baked goods here sir the inn keeps its own butcher so you might have luck there."

Russeth nods at the lady, and grabs what he has paid for. "I can't wait to bite into your food, m'lady, it smells great. Thank you, and have a good day." He smiles as he heads out, strolling by Elina he throws in her bowl a gold piece with a short laugh.

Zakren finally makes his decision and asks the lady for 7 round breads from the stock in the middle. He hands her 4 silvers...

Isreal sits and drinks his wine an waits for his meals

The lady counts the coins and nods as Zakren gets his breads. She makes her way over to straighten out the counter again.

Russeth waits patiently outside for Zakren to be done.

Zakren puts his bread carefully away and walks outside to meet up with Russeth.

Russeth nods at Zakren with a smile. "You got what you need, cleric? Then we shall head to the inn and prepare for a well earned night of sleep."

Russeth motions Elina to follow them to the inn and makes his way there.

Elina collects her bowl and places it back into her pack. Nodding at Russeth, Elina, with a graceful bounce, catches up with Russeth.

Russeth quickly finds himself crossing the inn's doorway, still bowing his head briefly at each and every person he crosses. He glares within, looking for Feragan and Mord who haven't yet got their share, and then looks for an empty table they could all fit on.

Isreal starts to eat his meal and drinks his wine think of riches and what the gem may have fated for the group. Turns and looks and continues eating.

Druid walks out of the blacksmith's and heads over to the bakery.

Russeth shrugs as he notices Isreal eating, "Bah. I guess he wanted to pay his own food anyway." He smiles and walks inside the inn with a smile, heading directly towards his friends.

[Isreal]: "well good of you to join us Russeth find everything you needed?"

Elina patiently waits for Russeth to choose a table before sliding into the seat besides him.

Stepping into the inn you see four large burly men dressed in thick clothing all sitting at the bar. At the side of each man stands a large axe just as before. The keep stands behind the bar speaking with the men as he looks over to the door upon your arrival. The tables are all empty and clean waiting for the next patron to sit. The keep says a few more words before making his way back down the bar to your end. Isreal sits at the bar while Mordineon and Feragan sit at a table.

Zakren follows behind Russeth. As he enters, he spots the group and walks over to join them.

Russeth nods at Isreal, "As always. I didn't need much myself anyway." He glares at the all empty room, "Alright let's get a table of our own shall we?"

[Barkeep]: "Ah can I get ye anything my good lads oh and lass's? I see you made it back from your little Trail hunt. Looking good I might add maybe you defeated the bandits. Or maybe you never went at all." Grinning widely at the two young ladies.

Isreal grabs his plate and heads to the table

Elina shyly slides away from the keep, hiding behind Russeth's tall figure.

[Isreal]: "well keep how much do I owe ya for the food an drinks?"

Zakren grins at the innkeeper...

Druid enters into the inn. She looks at the burly men for a while before moving over to join her friends.

Russeth smiles at the bartender and nods at the man. He draws his sword, placing it before the man to show him the blood stains still remaining. "We found the bandits. Or some of them however in all that action we have lost a friend." He shakes his head sadly.

[Barkeep]: "That will be hmm." Counting in the air with his fingers. " 7 silver coins sir."

Russeth continues smiling at the bartender, "Perhaps we can have a party meal, or should we wait till later tonight to feast?" He grins.

[Barkeep]: 'Ahh yes right a way party feast indeed." As he makes his way to get the goblets and mugs. While speaking to someone behind the back wall through a hole cut in the wall. He appears to be placing your orders as he pours your drinks. In the mean time the four of men seem to stare over at you eyeing you all up and down, more so then your first visit here.

[Isreal]: "you can bay for mine now Russeth "laughing

Russeth nods at Isreal, reaching into his pouch and taking out the exact amount of silver pieces. "You'll pardon me bartender, but I'll have to tip you at the end of the evening." He grins.

Zakren glances quickly at the men from behind his hood before looking back to the group.

Druid sits next to Elina and begins whispering something in her ear.

The four men greet the keep as they grab their axes and make for the door talking about falling, another tree or two before the days out.

Elina shyly slides her delicate right hand into Russeth's left hand. "The band at the table seems suspicious."

Druid giggles at Elina.

Russeth looks the other armed men over as much as they leave. "They not suspicious, they just rarely see a group of adventurers like us around. This is more of a wood mill town." He smiles at how shy the lady is and motions her to take a seat at the closest table. "Seems like the bartender has prepared something for us already."

Zakren turns his head to Russeth..."Adventurers? We've been on one adventure..." He grins and shakes his head.

Elina giggles. "Well I guess I am over cautious then." Elina winks at Russeth as she slides into the seat besides him.

Barkeep returns to your table with drinks. "The meal will be a short bit, fresh food takes a while to prepare."

Barkeep places ales down and two wines. "I believe one of you likes the wine from your last visit." Smiling as he gives a quick bow and returns to where the men were and wipes down the area and cleaning away old goblets.

Russeth nods politely at the bartender. "This is great, sir?" He leans forward, as if asking the man's name.

[Elina]: "May I have some wine please?"

Isreal finishes his food an asks if the man has anything to smoke behind the bar "keep cigar’s or anything to smoke behind there?"

[Barkeep]: "Aye I have a few but they will cost you!" Yelling over towards Isreal while he cleans.

Druid quickly sits down and begins her eager sampling of the food.

Russeth shrugs as the man leaves, "I guess we'll know his name another time." He glares around making sure the tavern is empty and takes a seat besides Elina, placing his hands upon the table. "Well my friends, how about we take a look at that map of ours before our meals arrive?"

Barkeep makes his way behind the bar into a small box and returns with two cigars. "They come from the south not bad little harsh but beats anything around here."

[Isreal]: "do you have enough for the hole party I will buy one for each of us an 3 more if you have them?"

Elina nods attentively at Russeth as she takes small sips of wine from her goblet. "Where are we off to?"

Barkeep looks in his hands at two cigars then back to Isreal.

Russeth smiles at Isreal, "Sorry I don't smoke cigars." He sighs, "Nothing against it however."

Zakren shrugs..."Sure..." He rummages through his pack and takes out the map but doesn't unroll it since the barkeeper is at the table...he eyes him quietly.

[Isreal]: "I will take them

[Barkeep]: "They will be two silver," as he lies them a top your table.

Elina shakes her head at Isreal, flinging her blonde hair around. "Neither do I Isreal. But thank you."

Russeth notices Zakren waits for the bartender to leave and understands, he reaches in the middle of the table for the other glass of wine and slides it to his end of the table.

[Barkeep]: 'anything else I can help you with?" As he waits for payment on the cigars.

Isreal gets up an walks to get them an leaves 4 silver on the keeps bar "thank you I also need a keg of you finest ale an is there a church near by?"

Zakren hands the unrolled map to Russeth and closes his pack.

Russeth glares down at the map and shakes his head, sliding the map back across the table. "I'm not talking of this map, where's the information on where we are heading next?" He doesn't mention the exact place.

Russeth seems absent for a moment as he looks up above Zakren's head but then he looks back upon the table, grabbing his glass and taking a quick sip of wine.

[Druid]: "What is your selection of beer, keep?"

Zakren opens his pack again and stuffs the map in. He takes out the other scrolls and looks them over discreetly, as he finds the scroll in question; he hands it to Russeth and closes his pack.

Barkeep bows and takes the coins from Isreal and goes back to his chores. As Eh turns to look at the lass "We have mead, Harrowdale black ale, and some stuff from the south that I couldn't give away hehe." Laughing at his remarks to your comment.

Elina seems to stare into the table as she starts to blush.

Russeth nods thankfully at Zakren, bringing his left hand from below the table to unroll the aforementioned scroll. He reads it over for a more in depth description of the location.

Druid smiles at the innkeeper. "Give me a tall glass of your Harrowdale ale".

[Barkeep]: "Aye," He turns and grabs a small goblet and fills it with dark ale as he makes his way back to the table. "Here you go lass."

Russeth rises the scroll in front of himself, hiding him from the others he smiles, holding it now one-handedly. "Well hmm. Are you sure we shouldn't ask more information concerning this place, Zakren?"

The keep once again leaves and makes his way into the back.

A short time later he returns with your large meal of sorted roast beasts and grains along with some fruit of the lands, and several rolls of breads.

Zakren sighs and whispers back..."I don't like this town...it's too poor. Anyone would say everything we'd say for money."

[Elina]: turns slowly and gives Russeth a shy smile.

Druid takes the goblet, wafting its strong scent. He quickly gulps it down, and requests another as the keep comes out again with the food.

Isreal walks to a lit candle and lights his cigar and steps to the door and steeps outside to watch for sunset

The keep takes the empty goblet and returns to the bar to refill the lass's drink.

Barkeep returns again as he hands Druid a goblet full of dark ale. "Anything else I can get for you?" Looking over the table.

Isreal looks down the street waiting for the people to start flowing in for the night

Druid whispers to the innkeeper.

Russeth glares with awe at the feast and then it turns into a smile. "How much will that cost, barkeep?"

Zakren draws his dagger and begins to hack away a piece of meat for himself.

Elina gingerly choose small helpings of the feast with her left hand, taking small delicate bites, chewing them slowly. She keeps her right hand hidden under the table.

Barkeep begins to count in the air again as he looks over to you. "That will be 5 gold pieces sir."

Russeth notices Zakren's maneuvers with the meat and finds it interesting, however he does not follow after. He reaches into his pocket with his right hand, and withdraws six gold pieces; he hands tem to the man. "Keep the change, good bartender."

[Barkeep]: 'Aye thank you sir thank you, anything else?"

Russeth reaches over the table for a nice piece of meat with his right hand, he takes strong bites out of the piece, his left hand remaining under the table. "Well, I have to say I am glad we have all met on this adventure. This is an interesting turn of events." He turns his head slightly towards Elina and smiles.

[Druid]: "Keep!'

Isreal steps back inside an takes a seat at the bar an asks for some water

[Barkeep]: "Yes lass what is it something wrong with the food?"

Elina blushes again, and gives Russeth a shy smile in return, quickly returns her eyes to her food again.

Barkeep turns looking over his shoulder at Isreal remark for water.

[Druid]: "No, no. The food is excellent in fact. But, I think will be wanting, some of your strongest drinks. One for me, and two for my friends over there". He points to Elina and Russeth.

Zakren chuckles silently.

Russeth remembers what had been thinking all the way on the road back to town. And then pauses his thoughts to look over at Druid, "Hmm, Druid. I am sorry but I am fine with this wine."

Isreal lays 2 copper on the bar "I have no wish to get drunk today"

Elina looks up from her food at Druid. "I am fine with mild wine dear. I can't handle strong drinks." Elina smiles.

[Barkeep]: "Very well then lass more drinks it is, and if nothing else I shall get his water and return to my cleaning." Smiling once again as he goes and fills a water for Isreal then the ales.

Zakren grins..."That's the idea Elina..."

Barkeep makes his way over with some more Harrowdale Black and places them upon your table.

Elina raises an eyebrow at Russeth as he speaks her same thought and giggles.

Russeth grins at the similar reply; he resumes his thoughts and looks over to the barkeep. He is about to speak but then he cocks his head, deciding not to. He continues chewing on the meat.

Isreal puffs on his cigar an pulls his book from his back an looks it over

The keep returns back to his cleaning as you eat you’re long a waited meal.

[Druid]: "Keep, do you have any rations?"

Elina looks questioningly at Zakren's remarks. Upon realization, she blushes scarlet and lets down her shiny blonde hair to cover her face.

Mordineon stands "I have decided to return to Harrowdale in the morning, and Feragan will be coming with me. I'm not cut out for this adventure life, I may just start a small worship."

Feragan nods. "Aye I thought the studies were bad enough but is better then this." Sipping off his ale.

Russeth nods towards Druid at the pertinence of her question. "Ah. I almost forgot about the rations." He exclaims as he throws an apple about a foot over his hand, grabbing it as it falls again, and taking a big bite out of it.

[Isreal]: "well Mordineon I will be sorry to see you leave I wish you could stay on but I understand"

Druid turns her attention quickly to the departing duo.

[Barkeep]: "We carry standard rations lass if you like to purchase some." Looking over towards Druid.

Russeth watches Mordineon and Feragan leave and looks a bit sad. "Have you had your share of the loot, my friends?"

Zakren turns to his cleric friend..."Where will you settle down my friend?"

[Mordineon]: "I will settle in Harrowdale and when you all return you can stop in and tell me of your stories."

Zakren smiles to Mord..."Count on it my friend"

Russeth nods firmly at Mordineon, "Will be glad to!" He smiles as he watches him standing.

[Feragan]: 'No Russeth we are waiting for our cut before we go but you could just give us the 500 gold piece gem and we'll call it even." Smiling at you from across the table.

Russeth pulls his head back and moves the apple aside. "Well now. That’s asking a bit much." He grins, "We will not be able to sell the gem before a while, this will be in Harrowdale, perhaps we can sell it to you then?"

[Russeth]: "I meant, give it to you." He grins.

[Feragan]: "Why not you have the others to get your split its only 250 a piece for the both of us."

Russeth nods "Ain't 250 gold pieces a quarter of the total amount we have?"

[Feragan]: Shrugs at your comment, "I don't know how much is it?"

Zakren nods. "Around that..."

Russeth raises an eyebrow at Mordineon, "A little above a thousand gold pieces."

Feragan leans in ok but who gets a cut of it we found those a while back."

Russeth counts quickly the people who are allowed a cut "Seven of us."

Zakren sighs..."Should we all head to Harrowdale then?"

Isreal hums a tune to him self wile drinking his water

Zakren counts on his fingers..."We split the gold...get the gold for killing the bandits...buy arrows..."

Sitting back eating and talking a middle aged man comes in covered in dirt and mud as he makes his way to the bar.

Isreal speaks up "and a good bow" and laughs.

Isreal nods at the man. "Working hard out in the fields are we?"

[Local]: 'Aye I have to get it in before the winter can't have it going bad."

[Isreal]: "I see let me buy the hard working man a drink. Keep get the man a drink what will it be?"

[Druid]: "How much more do you need to do, my good man?"

Russeth glares over at Elina and the man and sighs, "Well hmm. What shall we do for the rest of the night?" He smiles.

The keep nods and serves up the local his ale.

Elina ponders at Russeth question for a moment and leans close to Russeth, whispering into his ear. "Hmmm maybe a moonlight walk?"

[Isreal]: "how much keep?"

[Barkeep]: "2 copper my good sir" waiting for his payment.

Russeth stands up from his spot, bowing his head to the party and staring at Elina for a moment, he doesn't give a clear answer yet. "Perhaps..."

Isreal hands over the money.

[Barkeep]: "Thank you sir anything else?" Looking over at Isreal.

Russeth finds a seat besides Isreal and the worker. "What you doing alone, Isreal?"

[Isreal]: no that’s all and hands the keep another silver.

Elina rises with Russeth showing in clear view the two's hands interlock together.

Zakren speaks up..."Well are we going back to Harrowdale?"

Mordineon watches their hands separate as Russeth, goes to the bar and laughs slightly to him self shaking his head.

Russeth shrugs, as he continues walking in the bar's direction, apparently dragging Elina with him.

Elina gracefully follows Russeth to avoid being tow along.

[Isreal]: "well I am a little hot under the collar at the moment an I thought it bets if I keep my distance for the party Russeth an this man may know something of the village an it never hurts to talk to the common folk "

[Mordineon]: "Nah no need for that just pay us when you return to town from your next adventure. I trust you." Mordineon smiles across the table.

Feragan grunts to him self at his comment.

Zakren nods to Mord..."Those who survive will..." He grins at Mord.

Russeth nods at Isreal confidently. " 'Tis true. And what may be this man's name?" He peers over Isreal's shoulder with a smile.

[Isreal]: "great more for us Mordineon" laughing

[Mordineon]: "Ah yeah that do hehe sure you don't wish to settle down and plow some fields. Maybe we can have a double chapel." Laughing at his words.

[Isreal]: "people in this burg don’t seam to give that out freely". Laughing at Russeth.

Russeth smiles, "Alright then." He looks over at the bartender, leaning over the bar, and waiting for him to get close. "Excuse me, bartender, but I was wondering, you do hear some rumors during your job don't ye?"

[Elina]: With her emerald green skirt flittering around, revealing her smooth delicate legs, Elina glides to a stop besides Russeth.

[Barkeep]: "Ah of course I hear all kinds of stories."

[Isreal]: "they don’t like to give the news either Russeth " laughing

Druid looks over to the burly men to see what they are up to.

Zakren gets up and walks over to the barkeep..."How much for a room?"

Russeth shakes his head at Isreal; "Perhaps you should ask the right people about the news?" He turns his head towards the bartender again. "Have ye heard anything about giants who may be causing trouble and their whereabouts?" He narrows his eyes at his own mention of giants.

[Barkeep]: "Rooms are 7 silver sir."

Elina raises an eyebrow at Russeth. "Giants Russ?" Elina clings to Russeth's arm with her left hand.

[Barkeep]: "Giants I haven't heard of any news of giants in these areas as of late."

Zakren fishes out 7 silvers from his pouch and hands them to the man, awaiting the key.

Barkeep taking the coins and hands over a room key to Zakren. "Its up on the left 3rd door down."

Russeth nods at Elina slightly, turning his head to the left. "I have heard of what they can do, and some things are just unbelievable. Maybe sometime I can tell you about it." He faces the man again. "Alrighty then, perhaps there is anything else you have heard about recently that could interest us?" He smiles widely.

Zakren nods to the 'Keep..."Thanks." He moves over to the table and says..."I'm going off to pray in my room and then sleep...See you in the morning."

[Barkeep]: "Well I don't know?" Shrugging. "What is it you are seeking?"

Zakren goes back to the bar, grabs the key and moves up the stairs.

Elina nods at Russeth, frowning at the mention of giants. "Do you hate giants? I don't really like any thing large."

Russeth smiles towards the bartender, "Adventure or a job, that requires adventuring." He pauses and smiles ". Apart from the bandits."

Barkeep shrugs again 'Sorry I don't understand what you mean sir I’m just a bar keep I hear stories from sick animals to lonely wives down to bandits."

Druid tries to usher Elina away from Russeth for a moment to talk with her for a moment.

[Isreal]: "well keep let me tell you a story about how our hardy band of men an women who defeated the bandits in the wood. There we where in the cave after tracking them for days and facing danger unbelievable danger in the wood we fought hardly an killed many of them an lost one member of the party. We met up with more bandits in the days to follow but we dealt with them all now and we are on or way to the dale to collect our reward. But at no small cost we lost our funny dwarf in the melee of combat with this vine creature now that’s a tail for you to tell you patrons" smiling an laughing.

Elina reluctantly lets go of Russeth's hand. "I will be right back."

[Barkeep]: " I know the Velarwood is home to many a strange beings and nasties. We have lost quite a few woodsmen for going in to deep."

Russeth smiles and nods to the bartender, "I understand sir, sorry for my disturbance." He bows his head, strolling back to the table he nods at Elina, leaving her with Druid.

[Russeth]: His eyes widen at the mention of nasties, but he continues walking to the table, taking a seat silently, thoughtful.

Barkeep stares in shock all most at Isreal's comment. "Well sorry about the loss of your friend."

Druid continues conversing with Elina.

[Isreal]: "well this night with this great feasts with us in spirit so be sure to raze a glass to remember him"

[Local]: "Heh I wonder if that old crazy mage still lives in there. Give me another Racor." The patron speaks to the keep.

[Isreal]: "what mage be that my friend? I will pay for that drink keep"

Elina nods at Druid and returns to Russeth's side leaning close to him and whisper into his left ear.

[Local]: "Hmm, oh some nut from back in the day." pulling upon his beard as he waits for his next drink. "Way before your time I would think."

[Isreal]: "well tell me of the man you speak of what do you know of him?"

Russeth turns around and looks at Elina strangely, he replies in whisper.

Isreal sets 4 coppers down on the bar for the keep an the mans drink"

[Local]: "Me nah I do not you would have to talk to Kaldais he would know. That old timer has seen many a sun rise."

[Isreal]: "an where is this Kaldais now does he stay near her?"

Druid motions Russeth and Elina over.

Elina looks at Russeth with pleading eyes.

[Local]: "He lives out at the old farm north of town. He doesn't come into town much." Taking his drink and getting a nice swell of it.

Russeth walks up to Druid and speak with her and Elina softly; he adds a last thing.

[Isreal]: "really how would I know this farm if I was to come upon it?"

Druid nods at Russeth and Elina and breaks away.

Elina nods at Druid and shyly slides her hand into Russeth's again, finding comfort in it.

[Local]: "Hmm, well the north trail ends at it since he made it back in the day hehe." Laughing at your words as he swells down another drink.

Russeth walks back with the others with a smile, he sits in his spot. "I think I will get to my room now. I hope everyone has had good food."

Druid walks over to the table where Feragan is sitting with Mordineon.

Elina being drag along once again stumbles after Russeth.

Isreal hands the man a silver piece an "thank you sir have a drunk on me?"

Druid leans over the table to talk to Feragan.

[Local]: "Aye sure will. Racor another round please." Taking the coin and giving it to the keep.

Isreal walks over to the group an says I have found something to do anyone want to join me?"

Russeth walks over to the bartender, nodding once. "Alrighty, I guess I will get my room now." He tosses a gold piece to the man and motions him to keep the change as he waits for indications.

[Local]: "Hmm, I would wait until morning before you go a calling upon him, he is old and set in his ways." Turning back towards Isreal.

[Isreal]: "thank you for the info my friend"

[Local]: "Thank you for the ale hehe." Laughing and waving you off as the keep sets him up another drink.

[Elina]: "Well you go get some well deserved rest Russ darling." Elina winks with her shiny bluish green eyes and approaches Druid.

Russeth smiles at Elina, he continues walking towards his room, you hear him mumbling something about 'darling' happily as he disappears into the stairs.

Isreal calls up the keep I will take a room also an hands him a gold peace an says keep the change an he grabs the key when it is comes an heads for the General store

Druid grabs Elina and rushes towards Isreal.

Elina stumbles after Druid and mutters something about being drag around a lot these days.

Druid runs up with Elina to Isreal. "Isreal, could you come with us for a moment to see Feragan?"

Elina nods, too out of breath to speak.

Isreal say no I don’t think I will go with you druid I will say my good byes tomorrow morning before I set out to gather info"

Druid looks crestfallen at Isreal's declination.

Elina grabs Isreal's arm and starts to drag him back towards the inn without a second word.

Druid looks up as Elina drags Isreal to the inn.

Isreal follows the tug not wanting to offend the lady

Druid runs after them.

[Isreal]: "I will be back to pick up the goods my good man". Why are we going to see Feragan?"

Elina with Isreal in tow enters the inn and places him before Feragan.

Druid runs up behind them, this time, she herself being winded.

Elina turns to Isreal. "You need to learn a spell from Feragan here." Smiling at Isreal.

Druid smiles at Elina's straightforwardness.

[Isreal]: "well thank you for thinking of me my good lady."

Elina curtsey to Isreal. "I wish you better luck then the two of us." Motioning gracefully towards Druid and herself.

Mordineon and Feragan sit at their tables as Russeth, and Zakren have retired for the night.

Druid nods curtly.

Isreal says, "let me see the spell my good friend"

Feragan opens his book and slides over to Isreal as he watches the ladies intently.

[Isreal]: "what is this spell".

Elina playfully fondles with a blade of her hair, stroking it hand over hand as she waits for Isreal.

[Druid]: "It is an identify spell, my friend".

[Feragan]: It's the identify spell, they both failed to learn it."

[Druid]: "Yes, Elina already mentioned that. Thank you."

[Isreal]: "well I guess I will give it a shot should you not just right it down am study it later my ladies?"

Elina nods in agreement as she continues to play with her hair in a childish, yet attractive fashion.

You sit around the inn for several hours as Isreal studies the spell.

[Druid]: "Unfortunately, we are not experienced enough yet to scribe spells." Druid drops her head sadly.

Elina takes a seat at an empty table and studies her book again reading through them intently.

Isreal studies it for some time and looks up I don’t think I have got it

Druid drops her head into Elina's shoulder.

Elina concentrates deeply in her studies, not feeling Druid's head upon her shoulders.

Isreal stops in mid sentence an says "wait, wait I think I have it taldos zormac indifrensy doros" an the words echo an the mage has learned the spell

Druid lifts her head up quickly...a bit too quickly. She ignores the pain however, and her face lights up.

[Mordineon]: "Well folks I’m off to bed." Gets up and goes over to the keep to get a room and then makes his way off to bed.

[Isreal]: "good night, sleep well an I wish you luck in you priest way of life"

[Druid]: "Good night Mordineon".

The keep tends the bar speaking with the other man as you slowly one by one decide to go off to bed while others sit in the inn talking and drinking.

[Druid]: "I am heading off to bed to study and sleep, my friends." She gives Elina a big hug, and gives an apologetic smile to Isreal before heading off upstairs.

Feragan stands. "That sound like a fine idea, now that you are done." Grabbing his book back rather quickly he makes his way to the keep. "I may see you all in the morning I may not but safe travels either way." Takes the key and goes up stairs.

You rest through the night after praying, studying, eating, and drinking you wake to the pounding of the keep upon your doors. "Time to get up check out time!" You hear him go down the hall banging upon each door.

Isreal looks around the inn after studying in his new spell

Zakren makes his way downstairs and sits down at a table, waiting the morning breakfast.

Elina wakes at the sound of the pounding and approaches the wash basin. She gently combs out her hair and plaits it. Making sure that she is presentable, Elina walks with little skips out of her room and down the stairs, carrying her stuffs with her.

Russeth opens his left eye, hearing the rambling on the door he shakes his head. "He could at least let us wake on our own..." He speaks to himself, as he rolls to the side of the bed, and gathers his equipment in a pack with one of his hands, still lying.

Once again the morning meal sits at the end of the bar for you to self serve as the keep and his help clean and get everything in order for the new day.

Russeth opens up his door to see Elina pass by, he is armed and armored, his backpack atop his shoulder and ready for more travel. He strolls down behind her silently, and walks downstairs into the main room, with a wide smile on; he sniffs the food and finds himself a chair quickly. "Good food, again. Heh."

Isreal comes down an stretches an grabs some food an hands the man the cost for the meal an looks around the inn

Zakren yawns as he makes his way over to the bar to gather some food. He grabs a good a good portion and goes back to his table to eat.

Elina turns around and smiles shyly at Russeth. "Morning Russ darling. Did you sleep well?" Elina picks small pieces of food from the bar into her plate as she looks at Russeth.

Isreal eats quickly an sits with Zak you want to go with me to Kaldais house you can help me carry the goods I have bought for him"

Russeth nods with a smile back at Elina, "Indeed. It had been a while since. And you, dear?" He follows along, picking small bits of food to fill his plate.

Zakren looks away from his food to watch Isreal..."Who?"

Elina smiles and slips her little hand into Russeth's arm. "It’s been some time since I slept in a warm bed."

Russeth raises an eyebrow at Isreal as he sits down and bites into a toast. "Certainly we will, Isreal. Just give us a few moment." He grins, as he quickly stuffs the food in his mouth and chews rapidly.

[Isreal]: "Kaldais house he knows of a mage he would be what you would call a wise man here in the village"

Russeth grins as he looks in front of him self, "I see." He continues eating slowly.

Elina takes her seat besides Russeth and starts putting little pieces into her mouth, chewing slowly and carefully as she listens intently.

[Zakren]: "What mage? What are you talking about?"

[Isreal]: "well I am done when you get through you come to the general store I have some good to help the man talk hopefully"

[Isreal]: "the old crazy one the man talked of last night I don’t know but I think we have be fated to meet Kaldais"

Elina swallows her well-chewed food. "Is this Kaldais a mage?"

Isreal makes for the door want to be the one who gets the worm by getting an early start"

Russeth raises his left hand to his chin and scratches in a thinking position. "You say it is fate huh. So hmmm, in what will that man help us? Do you know exactly where we will find him?"

[Isreal]: "I think you can wait here an I can go check it out I don’t think we should roll up there like bruisers but the good I have bought for his farm may help you get some info on the land around here"

Isreal heads for the door ready to make his mark

Russeth shrugs, "I say it would be more wise to stick together, however. But if you absolutely want to go alone." He turns around and looks over at Elina but continues speaking to Isreal. "Well I've seen how you acted with merchants, and well. You might need help getting information?" He smiles.

Elina giggles at Russeth's comment. "Is he really that bad with merchants?"

Russeth shrugs, "Nah. He’s just direct."

Isreal stops an turns "I would like the group to come I may need some one to watch my back but I am good at gathering info look the title to that ship an the map would not have been taken if not for me"

Elina looks into Russeth's eyes and blinks. "I tends to be pretty direct too." Elina giggles.

Isreal keeps walking after stating his peace

Druid stands on that note. "Well we are wasting time if we are going lets go see this Kaldais."

Russeth smiles at Elina, "Different ways of being direct." He turns and watches Isreal going, "Aye, we will all go see the mage, I think it's important for everyone to be there."

Russeth stands up with Druid, and looks down at Elina with a wide grin. "Come on, Hun."

Isreal is on his way to gather the good's he bought last night

Elina nods at Russeth and smiles at his mention of Hun. Giggling, Elina stands from her seat.

After a nice rest you are ready to learn more about this gem in a tower, or mage as you get the supplies and make your way just north of the village where topping over a small ridge. You see a farm just up ahead of some three buildings in all. Along with the masters house you are able to make out the barn sitting off to the south east of the house and what looks like a smaller barn for the chickens setting off to the west of the house. There is no one in view as you make your way down to the small rickety fence that pens of the farm from the surrounding lands.

Elina follows Russeth with her small delicate hand in his. With her Emerald green skirt flittering around her, she struggles to catch up with Russeth's pace. "Russ darling, please slow down. My limbs are not as strong as yours."

Zakren walks alongside Russeth..."Why are we going to there again?"

Russeth slows down as she asked, still keeping a short distance between him and Isreal, he squeezes her hand tightly. "Isreal thinks it would be wise to go. Is that the place, Isreal?"

Isreal has taken the lead "singing a song his mother used to sing. "I think so the path ends there at the home, that’s what the man at the bar said " Hurries to the door of the mane house to knock on the door.

Russeth shrugs, "You're the one who knows, we're following you now." He smiles at the thief, and closes with him.

You approach the front of the home as you see a small roof sticking several feet out of the home, and a porch underneath covers the door. Making your way to the door as the small wooden porch crackles and creaks underfoot.

Elina lets out a sigh of relieve, no longer needing to run, she places her head upon Russeth's strong arm and hugs it with both hands.

Isreal knocks on the door trying to rouse someone inside

You knock and wait a short bit as the door slowly opens revealing a short hunched over human man of some age. He stands stooped over before you with cane in hand as he looks up with his balding head of white hair. "Yes may I help you?" The man peers up with old beady eyes of green.

Russeth glares down as Elina hugs his arm and smiles, he releases it, but only to put it around her shoulder. Pressing her against him he smiles even more, he looks around and then back at Isreal and the man.

[Kaldais]: "Well what is it? Why do you bother me?" Looking up and out of the door to you all.

[Isreal]: "yes sir are you Kaldais if so I would like to ask you some questions I have brought you goods from the general store if you will take the time to answer some questions I would give you this feed an other goods"

Elina giggles and snuggles up to Russeth's manly scent. She places her arm around Russeth's waist and hugs him closer.

[Kaldais]: "What questions might that be laddy?"

Russeth glares over at Isreal, wondering if he will be ok with diplomacy. He looks interesting by the question. He walks closer to him, his arm still around Elina's shoulder.

[Isreal]: "well you see we have found a map to a place where a mage lives and I was told if any one knew about the mage you would sir since you are so wise"

Elina approaches with Russeth, waiting to see how Isreal will handle the situation.

[Kaldais]: "Mage what mage there are many mages about these parts." looking out through the crack of the door still not opening it fully.

Russeth sighs as he repeats Isreal's words softly. "A place with a mage."

[Isreal]: "Russeth hand me the map please"

Russeth shrugs at Isreal, "I would if I had it."

Isreal lies the goods down on the steps "these are yours".

Isreal holds his hand to Zak asking for the map.

Kaldais peers down at the supplies, before once again looking up for an answer.

Russeth glares Isreal directly in the eyes as he turns again, "Isreal, seriously, would you like me to handle this?" He looks rather serious.

[Elina]: "Is it with Zakren?" Elina turns her head in the embrace of Russeth and looks expectantly at Zakren.

Zakren opens up his pack..."Hmm the map or the scroll about the gem?"

[Isreal]: "I have it my ranger friend. The map to the tower where the gem is"

Russeth nods at Isreal and smiles, "Alrighty then Isreal. It is a scroll, not a map."

Zakren gets the scroll referring to the gem and looks to Isreal suspiciously..."Why do you need it again?"

[Isreal]: "well then scroll what ever if you wood Kaldais take a look at this an tell me what you know of the place. To let the man look at it he may know something about the place"

Elina looks up at Russeth with shiny eyes. "Darling are we going to hunt the mage?"

[Russeth]: "No need to show him the scroll. Ask a simple question."

Zakren hands it out the scroll to the old man.

Russeth shakes his head at Elina, "Are you insane." He says so with a smile. "There was no mention of a mage anywhere, anyway, I don't know where Isreal has got that from."

The old man takes the scroll and begins to look it over.

[Isreal]: "it would not hurt to let the man see what we have he is not going after the gem"

Elina giggles at Russeth's comment. "Well I have only heard about it from Isreal this far." Elina winks at Russeth lovingly.

[Isreal]: "I will fill you all in later

[Kaldais]: "Ahh this speaks of Tormaq's Tower the old mage of the west. Aye, I indeed know a tale or two about him. Please come in from the chill." As he steps aside allowing you to enter the small home. Once you are all inside he shuts the door and slides a wood bolt across it to secure it. The smell of cooked pig fills the home as he leads you to another room.

Zakren hums to himself as he follows the man..."Is the mage still alive?"

Russeth giggles back at Elina as he steps in, behind Zakren. "Maybe Isreal knows a little more."

Isreal follows him.

[Kaldais]: "One is said that he is dead and has been for many of year lost somewhere in the murky woods of the inner forest. They say he was working on some sort of arcane magic, some believe it was to try and bring him back after death."

Russeth nods at the man and quickly replies; "Do you think he would've succeeded?"

Zakren sighs..."I've heard that in a bard's tale...something about leeches..."

[Isreal]: "yes, yes go on Kaldais we are on the edge of our seat's"

[Kaldais]: "No one rightly knows for they don't venture into the woods to deep. "The other is that he plans to use the amber gem of Luho against the mighty wizard Fesspel who lives in the mountain caves somewhere to the east across the waters. But neither has been seen for sometime some say the crazy fools blew each other into another realm. Hahaha." Finishing in laughter he settles down and sits calmly listening to your questions and interest of the man of the woods. But this was many years ago.

[Elina]: "Such magic takes long and tedious work. A slight mistake will be hazardous." Elina points this out as she settles herself upon Russeth's lap.

Zakren grins to the others..."I'm sure we all want to know what that stone can do."

[Kaldais]: "But ye be a fool to venture deep into them there woods for they are full of nasty beast and UN-natural things. They say men that turn into wolves right before your eyes before it rips open your chest and tearing out your heart." Gesturing the attacks with his hands as if to be pulling out his own heart.

[Isreal]: "yes but what if he completed it I say he is still alive an the bandits work for him an they had the ship to go fight the other mage across the waters"

[Kaldais]: "Many a lumber cutters have ventured deep into the woods and have never return, my old dear friend disappeared a few years back while searching for some old wood for harvest. He is seen from time to time stalking camps of other woodcutters who venture into the forest to far, they say he is aged, pale, and weak looking when he was once a strong man with arms out to here." Spreading his arms open in gesture of the man's size and build.

[Isreal]: "well this be true we will have to take special steps to avoid these beasts"

[Kaldais]: "If I were you I would take these lovely ladies and go settle down make some babies and work the lands, don't go into the woods or you will all die there. Never to be seen again and with such beauty the lass's have would truly be a shame." As he moves, in forward over the table grabbing Elina's hand and caress's it gently with his wrinkled old fingers.

Russeth puts his arm around the lady's waist; "You know a lot about this, dear." He presses her against his body again. He listens to the mention of beasts and werewolves with great interest, and then looks at Elina, winking with his right dark green eye. "What ye think of these beasts, dear?"

[Isreal]: "great more wolfs that’s all we need Russeth"

[Russeth]: "Wolves. That’s nothing about wolves. Isreal."

[Isreal]: "you said it your self werewolves we can’t handle that"

[Kaldais]: "Ah yes what a lovely lass you are. But enough of that." As he releases her hand. "You wish to know where the tower is I can not help you there, what I can help you with is the surrounding area. Go into the woods for two moons. Soon you will reach a clearing or used to be one with some rocky crags; there should be a small village there. You can get food and drink. From there you must go one day south through the forest leaving from the eastern edge of the village. There should be a small mill there. Once you have made the days travel south start looking for the tree of lights and there you will find Tormaq's Tower. But be warned if he is still about he won't take kindly to trespassers such as your selves." Leaning back into his chair shifting to get more comfortable.

Zakren takes this opening to ask about the gem once again.

Elina shakes her head at Russeth. "Why of course darling. I am schooled in magic after all. These creatures to me are legends, creatures that only appear in children books. I have yet to see one." Elina cuddles Russeth close with her arms around his neck.

Russeth ponders a moment, taking the man's thoughts into consideration.

Elina clinches at the old man's touch. "Thank you for your comment sir. Is there anything you can offer us to aid us in this quest which we are about to partake?"

[Kaldais]: "Heh I see you think that is not important there lass, well let me tell you a little story a long time ago, may I see a long sword?" Looking around to wards all of you.

Russeth sees how the man of great wisdom is sure seeking that gem is suicide he lowers his head, thoughtful. "Now that he presents it this way. This seems like suicide. " A corner smile ". To the normal man."

Zakren shakes his head..."You might be right but when adventure calls...you have to seize it or you'll regret it the rest of your life."

[Isreal]: "well I only hope to be as wise as you Kaldais "

Zakren draws his sword and hands it over to the old man.

Kaldais takes the sword the weight of it almost pulls him over as he catches his balance with the aid of his cane. "Heh maybe I can see a dagger hehe I think I'm a little old for the likes of this these days." Hobbling closer to return the sword.

Russeth draws his longsword quickly, putting it on the table and sliding it to the man. But then he notices Zakren has already done it, he sheaths it back and shrugs.

Isreal takes out a gold the goods are not good enough for the info you gave us here take this also

Zakren smiles at the man and takes his sword, and replaces it with his dagger.

Kaldais steps back away with the dagger in hand he flexes his old wrist as he stares at the blade. Looking up towards you all holding the dagger out before him. "Ok now bring it on one of you young whippersnappers get up here. Back in the day I could cut your geezerts and hold them before your face before you drop dead lifeless I did. Come I show you, hehe don't be afraid I won't hurt you." Saying in jest as he side steps with the dagger before him.

Zakren shrugs and steps up before the man, in a parrying position.

[Isreal]: "we did not come here to fight you old man".

Zakren makes a slow slice towards the old man's side.

[Isreal]: "but if you really want to teach us something teach us of the land and of farming".

Kaldais steps back towards an old stand turning away as Zakren gets up to confront the old man and with almost blinding speed of and old man he turns and stabs Zakren in the chest. Before Zakren as realized he has been struck the man steps back holding the entrails of Zakren dropping them upon the floor, as he bursts into laughter.

Russeth glares at Zakren with a smile, not wanting to prove anything for this day. He leans his head against the lady's shoulder and sighs, "So, Elina, what do you want to do about that gem yourself?"

Isreal says "you bastard you will die for such a thing and to do this to a friend".

[Kaldais]: "Hehe I got ye I got ye never fails does it?" Standing there you can see Zakren isn't harmed at all. "Hehe I got ye that there was Din." Pointing down to the floor at the entrails, "That's short for Dinner hehe," pointing up towards the pig upon the table. The dagger lay behind him upon the small stand.

Elina strokes Russeth's hair with her hand. "Hmm I have yet to think about it. If its magic, maybe I will be able to use it."

Zakren scratches his chin..."What was that?"

[Isreal]: "oh well you have more talent than I thought old man".

Russeth glares at the man furiously, "You fool, what have you done?" He grabs Elina by the chest and putting her on her feet on the floor, he is about to draw his blade, and he looks down at the entrails and curses. "Crazy old people."

[Kaldais]: "Hehe you young folk think you know it all, hehe you know nothing but you will learn one day I guess if you're lucky. Well sorry to be inhospitable but we old folk need our rest. I hope, I have helped you some if not to bad get out hehe," saying in jest as he shows you do the door.

[Kaldais]: 'Ahh here you go laddy." Handing back the dagger.

[Isreal]: "thank you for the information may I have the dagger back"

Zakren grabs the scroll and his dagger as he leaves..."Well thanks a lot Kaldais."

Russeth notices it wasn't all that useless to get up he quickly makes his way to the door. "Good night, mage."

[Isreal]: "thank you for everything I hope the goods help you on your way my friend Kaldais"

Zakren sheaths his sword as he makes his way to the door.

You make your way outside back onto the farm as the old coot waves you off and shuts his door. You can hear the bolt drop from behind it as you leave the crackling porch behind as you begin your way back into town.

Isreal follows the others out of the old mans house "see I told ya I was good at getting info now what Russeth?" Smiling at the others.