Alrik, you head back to the others and the three of you slowly make your way through the forest. It is currently mid-day, and at a steady pace you should reach town by early evening.
By the time you reach the stream, Tak is feeling well enough to climb down from Atriox's shoulder. He takes a minute to splash in the water, rinsing off the blood and ichor from his scales. It seems to soothe his healing burns too, which are still quite raw.
You pass by the grove you slept in the night before. However, something catches your eye. A small package sits near the remains of the fire. It is wrapped in leaves and twine and shimmers slightly. No tracks are near it, strangely enough.
Atriox stops and looks at the package already badly bloody and bruised he feels slightly paranoid yet still he walks torwards the package . ( investigating 19)
You peer closer at the package. It shimmers like moonlight, and gives off a peaceful aura. It also has a smell like the strange spices from Tommy's stew.
Picking it up, you see a note drawn on it in charcoal, in the draconic tongue:
"Thank you for clearing some evil from the forest, Atriox. Rather princely for you to help. The grove is thankful."
Inside you find several bundles of sweet herbs and seeds, along with a glistening apple.
(I dunno if you realized, but when Tommy last talked to you and you said you'd help the forest, he used your name. You never told him your name. XD
Atriox snorts loudly blowing steam out his nostrils.
"If anybody has a problem with either of you they will have to go through me, and I promise you they wont like that. All the same dont purposely go looking for trouble. Alrik not that you have anything to be ashamed of you should be cautious about your newfound appearance. Let us be away then. The city holds its own excitment and adventures."
Alrik leans on his staff and looks at Tak. "Well Flame-Scar... we're heading back to town. You and I both will probably have to be careful to not cause trouble... shall we make each other a deal? You keep me from making trouble and I'll keep you from doing so..."
He blinks at Alrik, giving a little nod. Tak fiddles with his claws. Still new to trusting these fellows, he is at least certain they'll keep their word. And... just as likely wring his neck if he were to try anything.
He resolves to spend the rest of the trip fashioning a makeshift cloak out of a horse blanket and rope from the back of the cart. Anything to help make him less conspicuous. The entire time, he eyes the large jawbone beside him.
The remainder of the journey is uneventful, and you finally exit the forest. The first stars of twilight flicker on the horizon, and the lanterns down in Dragonshore begin to glow. You can see the ships bobbing quietly in the bay.
The only thing that catches your attention on the road, is when you pass by a homestead near the outskirts of the town border. A fellow stands outside smoking a pipe, watching you carefully. He seems very curious as he observes you, but remains quiet. You pass in peace.
You finally arrive to the main plaza, Ginger, wagon, and flowers in tow.
Where would you like to go first?
"We should return Ginger and the cart." He points toward the blacksmith.
Atriox nods "I agree business first"
You head toward Ferrars Arms, sporting the dusty blacksmith outside storing his signs and shaking out his apron. Metal shavings flicker in the lamplight and he looks up when he hears the cart.
"Boys, you made it back! I was worried when I didn't see ya last--Hell, what happened to ya?!" His excitement turns to surprise as you come into the light. Your grime and bloodsoaked clothes turning quite a lot of heads.
"Goblins..." Alrik mutters. "Sorry about your horse, she got a bit injured, as well as the wagon sustained minor damage. I'll pay for repairs and woundcare." Alrik reaches into his satchel for his coin purse.
Ferrar pets Ginger's cheek, running his hand down her back to feel the healing scratches. "The fact you two look as bad as you do, and she looks as good as she does?"
He shakes his head. "You did a fine job keeping her safe. Thank you for risking your lives like that. No extra payment needed, you're fine." He holds his hand up to stop Alrik, chuckling.
(17) Tak slowly slips out the back of the wagon, ducking under and behind a wheel. He hangs back near Atriox's tail and shadow, trying to blend in.
The blacksmith glances in the wagon. "What the... What is this massive thing?" He touches the toothy jawbone.
"Jawbone of a basilisk. I brought it back from the outpost with me... a friend of mine had it."
"Wow son, this is mighty fine. You gonna carry it outa here, or? Where you taking it?"
"Hoping you can turn it into a short sword... gnome sized."
He lets loose a loud, wheezy laugh. "Now ain't that the strangest thing I've ever heard in my life! You're serious?" He looks over the bone again with a more scrutinizing eye. "I don't often deal with bone weapons, but I might be able fashion something out of this... Gnome sized, huh?"
He strokes his beard as he walks around the cart, trying to get a better look at it. "I think I'll have an easier time figuring something out in the morning, better light to see and all. I'll also need to borrow a few special tools from a friend to manage something of this structure..."
"What are you offering to pay?"
"Well, I'm sure Atriox would like something out of it. Me, I am thinking I'd just like some of the teeth fashioned with some leather into a bracer..." he holds up his gloved left arm.
"As for pay, I have no use for the rest of the jaw once we get our pieces... you're more than welcome to keep it. Basilisk bone is harder than some steel and takes an edge like mithril..."
The blacksmith nods his head, slowly taking in your ideas. "This sounds like a fair opportunity... I suppose I could fashion a few of these small items that you're asking for and still have a lot left over..."
He stares at the jaw for a moment longer. "All right, it's a deal. Give me about a week to work with it and I'll get to your new gear. If you want anything on your person upgraded or augmented, you best leave that here with me too." Despite the low light of the evening and his bushy beard, you can tell he's smiling and excited. He seems a bit giddy to have an opportunity to work with this.
Alrik simply nods. "I'll be by tomorrow to help you unload it from the cart. We have fireblooms to deliver to the priest, so we'll be off now." He turns to leave, and gestures for Atriox and Tak to start heading the way of the temple.
Atriox smiles happily and before departing leaves his glaive and leg armor. Then joins his freinds.
Tak slinks along, sticking close to you both. As sneaky as he tries to be, his tail keeps poking out the back of his cloak. He is extremely jittery, having never once set foot in a town. He uses his javelin as a walking stick, gripping it tightly as you go.
You arrive at the whitewashed temple of Pelor. A middle aged woman holds the door open for you as you approach, giving you a warm smile. She looks like a cleric, dressed in healing robes and an apron. "You fellas need assistance? It seems you're injured. This way, this way..." she ushers you in.
Alrik holds his hand up, palm facing her as if to say wait. "While we could use something of a healer's touch, we also have business with Petvin..."
"Oh! Of course. Right this way, right this way." She leads you in past the pews and healing soldiers. Some sit playing cards, others rest on cots.
In the back she goes down a cooridor to the clerical offices. "Mr. Spiritforger is working with a patient right now but should be--" she's interrupted as a door opens near the end of the hall. You see Petvin exiting, cleaning his hands on a towel. He has a tool belt with a plethora of surgical instruments.
"Oh, Matilda, thank you for bringing these men to me." He glances between you both, eyeing your bloody clothes and picking at his teeth with his tongue. "Had a rough time eh? Gregory never did return..... Come to my office here." He holds another door open for you all. "Matilda, I'll be right up. Won't be but a few minutes."
"So, any luck? You left in such a huff I wasn't sure if you knew what to look for..." He drops his tools on his desk, turning to eye you. He glances at Tak but (4) doesn't pay him much heed, thinking him a child or friend of yours.
"Gregory is dead. Found him near the grove clutching some withered flowers." Alrik then gestures to Tak. "Give him the sack, Flame-Scar... he's the one we gathered them for."
Petvin clutches his heart, making a symbol with his hand. "May Pelor bless his soul and he find rest..." He sighs, tired. He looks very weathered given the circumstances.
He reaches out to take the bag, completely oblivious to Tak in his current state of mind. "The almost constant influx of injured here, it's a wonder we can keep up... I haven't had a proper sleep in days..."
He dumps the plants out. The blossoms have already dried and look weeks old. Petvin examines each flower closely.
After examining several of the flowers, he looks up at you and says, "Oh, dont worry! They always dry out like this. Something the grove has that keeps them alive... Fresh or dried, they still have the same healing properties."
"Here. It is as much as we can offer. Take heart in knowing that your good deeds will save the lives of many."
He hands you 10 gold per flower, coming to 70 total.
He eyes Alrik. "Say, are you trained in healing the sick? I could show you how to cure a disease if you like. And, of course, get you both cleaned up. We have some services here you are free to use."
(You guys also earned 134 exp from this, each, and 250 from the goblins! I'm keeping track of your leveling, you're close to 3rd)
Alrik shrugs. "I've done some healing in the past. Mostly wound care..." he points to the seared shut gash on Atriox. "Not pretty, but it gets the job done..." he says as he contorts his fingers and once again creates the sparking orb he used to close the wound.
He chuckles, smacking his lips. "Not bad, not bad. Definitely a rough way to go, but," he peers at Atriox's scar. "Like you say, it did the job."
Petvin glances between you both. "Well why don't you get cleaned up? We have bathing accommodations down the hall on the left, you are free to use them. When you're done, I can show you what I know." He smiles at Alrik. "And the Dragonborn here can see Matilda for assistance with his injuries."
Alrik ponders the proposal, the thought of learning something to aid him and his companions sounds intriguing... "I usually bathe at the brothels, but I'm sure I can manage here..." he smiles at the priest. "I like the fragrant soaps they usually have... plus they do my laundry." (Not even gonna roll for deception, he's blatantly lying)
Petvin gets a little flustered trying to find a proper response to that. "Well, I erm... Hmm.. Yes I suppose." He eyes Alrik with a knowing glance, not wanting to be rude to the fellows who just helped him.
Seeing how uncomfortable Tak is, Alrik clears his throat before speaking. "We're going to be in town for a while, so why don't you show me what you're willing to, and then I'll go join them at the inn?" He gestures to Tak and Atriox. "Go ahead and find us a couple of rooms. I'll catch up."
Petvin nods curtly. "Yes, uh, that sounds fair enough. Won't take long."
During the time you're with him, you learn a ritual for removing diseases. It is cast as a ritual, and can help kill parasites and certain diseases. He provides you with the material components with which you'll be able to perform this moving forward.
Heading back outside with Tak, you wander along the promenade, eyeing the business fronts. Several general stores have closed, but the smells of cooking food and sounds of raucous laughter lead you toward the bars and inns. Tak tails behind nervously, keeping in your shadow.
One building with a narrow storefront catches your eye, The Velvet Fang. It has a hazy sort of mage light illuminating the dooreay, along with a sign indicating vaccant rooms and washing services available. Next door, you see a sign for Fool's Gold, a noisy gambling hall.
You head inside and see it is far bigger than appearances lead on. Much of the decor centers around soft cushions and poufs, with a hookah lounge and buffet serving customers. A matron approaches, smiling kindly. "Hello there, welcome! Are you in need of services this evening?"
Atriox looks around nodding slightly then to the matron
" yes I could do with two of your finest rooms and all your other services madam. If you would be so kind we also are in need of healing if you know of anyone capable."
She nods happily, not at all bothered by your soiled attire. "As you wish, kind soldier. This way, if you please."
She airily leads you to a small service desk, withdrawing from a basket a set of intricate looking keys. She also retrieves a pair of tied, silk bundles. "That'll be 10 gold for the night, Sir. 4 for the rooms, 2 for the dining services another 4 for the healing and bathhouse courtyard. Will that be acceptable?"
Atriox grins "of course madam thank you for your kind hospitality. Here's 3 more gold peices for your trouble."
He hands her 13 gold
"If you would be kind to show us first to the where we may get some healing and baths ? And by the way madam we will have a third joining us shortly the other room is for him. A man by the name of Alrik. He look as dirty as us and a scar on his face that you couldn't mistake. Thank you."
She beams. "Our pleasure! We will take good care of you. I will watch for your friend, Alrik, and provide for him when he arrives."
Handing you a key and a package, she says, "This is for your room, third floor on the right. His will be on the left. And these are for you to change into after you bathe." She pats the silk, containing a towel and silvery robe.
"Baths are out the back doors just there. A server will collect and launder your belongings for you in the meantime. We can arrange for someone to meet in your room afterward to... address your wounds." She smiles again. "The buffet and lounge are unlimited. Feel free to enjoy all our services as you please. Just ask if you need anything."
Atriox grins again "Thank you madam for your hospitality. Our kind dont always get such kindness. It is appreciated."
Atriox heads to the baths with Tak
She shakes her head and her eyes twinkle. "Nothing is strange at the Velvet Fang. We aim to please all our customers, no matter who."
You enter the bathhouse and find several springs of water, full of fragrant steam. Several other patrons are bathing, ranging from human to orc, and even another dragonborn.
Almost instantly a server approaches, a youthful half elf maid. It seems the servers here already know of your higher end purchases. "Welcome! I'll be assisting with your laundering this evening."
Tak peeks up at you from under his cloak, a nervous look in his eye. He glances at the girl and back at you as if waiting for an order.
Atriox looks at Tak " its alright Tak my freind there is nothing to be afraid of here. Look around there are many other races here. None of them afraid. Even that other dragonborn. We are here to relax and get clean and healed. So let us do that. Give this kind woman your clothes so she can wash them
Alrik strolls down from the temple, his gnarled staff thumping on the hard trodden roads. Spying The Velvet Fang, a smirk creeps into the corner of his mouth. "My kind of place..." he mutters as he walks toward the doorway, illuminated by the pale red magelight. As he opens the door, he pushes his hood back and checks again to see that his gloves are indeed covering his new scales.
Taking a deep breath, he lets it out with a long sigh. "Always liked the variety of incense these places always seem to have." He says to no one in particular
Tak hesitates, then awkwardly tries to disentangle himself from his robe, pulling it off over his head. He glances up at the server nervously, seeing her waiting with a happy smile. She doesn't seem hardly at all surprised.
He blinks, a little taken aback. Noticing the look on Atriox's face he hurriedly unlatches the rest of his battered armor. Handing it to the lady he withdraws rather quickly and slips into the water up to his eyes. He looks like a little crocodile.
A woman's voice pipes up near your arm Alrik. "We have many flavors to please. Tonight we have several blackroot specialties at the lounge..."
You turn to see the matron, who has a key and silk robes ready. "Welcome. Alrik, I persume?" She smiles knowingly, admiring your scar. "Your compatriots have already secured your rooms, and are out bathing now. All our services have been paid for, so please, enjoy your stay."
Alrik smiles in return. "Thank you, Madam. I'd enjoy a bottle of your finest house brandy." He reaches into his satchel and pulls out his coin purse, fishing out a small handful of coins. (15 gold coins) "I think we would also like some food, later. Perhaps you could have a nice meal prepared for us?" He winks, placing the coins in her hand.
She flashes a knowing smile, taking the coins. "But of course, good Sir... I'll have it all pleasantly arranged. I hope you enjoy the buffet in the meantime, but, we will provide private meals for the three of you."
Bowing slightly, she points the way to the baths. "We will bring your drink to you there. I'll fetch the finest in the house." She gives a wink and pats his shoulder, heading toward the kitchens.
Alrik nods and steps into his room to change. Leaving his dirty, bloodsoaked uniform at the door to be cleaned, he heads in to the baths. Heading toward a pool with a slight blue tint to the steam, Alrik climbs in and lets out a content sigh.
Atriox just chuckles and shakes his head. He follows Tak into the water.
Once comfortably in the baths next to him Atriox looks to Tak
"Why are you so agitated little one. Why not let yourself enjoy this huh ? That's what we payed for....to relax enjoy ourselves and have fun as we mend."
Tak looks dubious. He pokes his mouth out of the water to speak in draconic. "We got coin to spend on weapons. But you did manage to talk the bearded one into free labor..." He trails off and eyes you, then turns away. "You are the leader, you are allowed to do what you wish with your coin."
"This is opposite of fun... There are so many humans..." He sinks into the water and blows bubbles from his nose.
You can tell from the look on his face though that the bath is soothing to his injuries. He just looks miserably comfortable.
Alrik, after a few minutes a lovely woman with curly hair walks over to you. "Hello, Sir. Your drink," She stoops to hand you a crystal glass of brandy, and sets a metal tray nearby with the bottle.
Alrik calls across from his nearby bath at Tak. "Don't be afraid. These humans are good humans. They mean you no harm. They're here for the same reason we are. To enjoy themselves." Unbeknownst to Alrik, he replied in perfect Draconic
Alrik smiles at the woman. "Thank you, Miss..." he gestures to the water next to him with his right arm. "Care to take a dip? The jasmine pool is quite lovely this evening..."
Tak scrambles a bit in surprise, glancing at Alrik. He had no idea the storm mage had joined them already. The kobold sinks down and exhales more grumpy bubbles.
His eyes narrow and he looks at Atriox. Popping up a little, he mumbles, "Has the soft skin always known our tongue? He pretended not to yesterday..."
The server near Alrik smiles warmly. "I would be glad to, Sir. Whatever you wish. We are here to please." She steps into the pool beside you, her attire very accommodating to being in or out of the water.
You actually see more servers waiting on others in the water, refilling drinks and offering food. Another walks by, setting down an extra towel for the both of you.
Atriox looks around then to Tak "we can speak of this more later but just know what ever happened at that place with the bones.....it changed him. Now it's time to relax AND enjoy our selves."
Atriox looks around at the different server girls. ( what all server girls are there ? Like race etc.)
Tak looks melancholy thinking about it again. You see his claws clutching something in the water... It looks like his coin, which he fished out of his gear before handing it over. The kobold just grumbles and floats around in the steamy mist, leaving you be.
As you relax in the water, you admire the view. The bathing pools here are in a walled, outdoor garden, a roof of stars over your head. Several servers catch your eye in and out of the water. You see they vary greatly: mostly human, others of elven descent. One or two look like they could be half-orc, another, of dwarvish blood.
You then spot a server greeting the other Dragonborn. The fellow is unimpressed, declining a drink as he remains thoroughly engaged in a conversation with an orc. The server appears human, but has a tail, scaled legs and arms, and golden eyes. She seems to be half Dragonborn.
Meanwhile, Alrik's server appears fully engaged with her patron. "It's Alrik, correct?" She relaxes next to him. "What brings you to Dragonshore, Sir?"
Alrik shrugs. "Just got out of the military and was tired of the desert... figured a nice coastal town would be a good change of scenery."
"Military, huh? I bet you saved a lot of lives out there... I'm glad you made it back to civilization safely." She glances at your scar with a soft smile. "We're happy you're here."
"Any plans now that you're back?" She gently moves to massage Alrik's shoulders and neck, as if it's a natural thing to do for her job.
He leans his head down as she begins to massage his shoulders. "Go where I want. Do what I want. Not take orders from anyone."
The girl with Alrik laughs, a light happy laugh. "Sounds like a lovely way to live. Freedom is the most beautiful thing in this world." She works on a hard knot, pausing only momentarily as she feels his backbone.
"Are you staying for only one night, Alrik? Or will you be in Dragonshore for some time?"
"We'll be here at least a week or so." He points in the direction of Atriox and Tak
The woman looks over at where Alrik points, spotting his friends. "Is that a...?" She muses outloud, pausing as she looks at Tak with curiosity.
"I don't think I've ever seen a kobold before. The soldiers who visit talk about them from time to time." Realizing she stopped, she continues the massage. "You seem to have quite the adventurous life."
Yeah, that's a kobold. Tak is his name. Good enough fellow..." Alrik chuckles at her saying he's had an adventurous life. "Well, some would agree with you. I've sure had my fair share of scrapes with death..."
He points at the large scar on his face. "Basalisk." Then points to a jagged set of claws on his upper chest. "Gnoll raider." He lifts his right leg out of the water showing a large cut scar. "Lizardfolk sword."
Alrik's server shows genuine surprise and interest at the exploits he shares. "How fascinating! I've heard of lizardfolk and gnolls, but a basalisk, you say? What is that?"
"Basalisks are large snakes. They frequent the desert sands. Gave us a helluva time..." he instinctively reaches up and touches the scar with his left hand
She gazes at it, tracing the edge with her fingertips. "Miraculous you still have your eyesight. I had a friend in my childhood who had died from a snake. Nothing this large.. Though... It looks like it left you with something?" She notices the slight flickers of electricity when you touch it.
Alrik nods to her. "Sort of. It managed to slash my face with one of it's fangs as I pushed my friend out of the way... it hurt more than anything I've ever felt, and that made me angry."
He lifts his hand and flutters a spark between his fingers, almost like he's twirling a coin. "I was part of the mage guard, and I did something we aren't supposed to do. I cast a reckless spell, which means I poured all my magical energy into a single spell."
Me puts his hand down, but as he tells the story his eyes begin to reflect a massive storm within, and the scar glows faintly. "A great storm came from nowhere and a bolt of lightning arced down and killed the basalisk... but it ricocheted into me. Seared the wound shut and crystallized the basalisk venom... and also damaged me. I can no longer call on all the elements."
She nods, eyes wide and enraptured in your story. You can tell with most places like this, that the escorts are always there to be polite and feign interest... But something about her makes it seem like she is honestly engaged.
"I've heard a great many stories of battle wounds, Alrik, but never one quite like yours."
"I'm sorry, I've been rude this whole time. I apologize. I forgot to ask your name, miss..." Alrik looks at her sincerity in his eyes with his apology.
"It's no bother, Sir. I go by Zinnia." She smiles serenely. "And pardon my manners, would it please you to have food brought to you yet? Or do you wish to dine in your room?" She reaches over to refill his cup of brandy.
"I'll eat later, thank you Zinnia." He sips his brandy and lays his head back with a sigh. "It's been too long since I've sat in a jasmine pool..."
Zinnia leans against Alrik, stroking his hair. "As you wish. We are happy for you to rest as long as you like. There's even an enchantment over the courtyard, should it rain... Rolls right away, like a clear ceiling. Though you probably don't mind the storms." She chuckles.
Alrik chuckles. "Quite right... storms don't bother me." He sips his brandy again. "So, what would you recommend for a meal? Any favorites I can have brought in later?"
Zinnia seems contemplative. "The buffet is rather nice, but the head chef here makes a beautifully glazed salmon. They catch them fresh up at the river, and have a half dozen or so hauled in each day. We only make it on request." She smiles. "Do you like fish, Alrik?"
Alrik smirks and chuckles. "I like food, regardless of it's origins... glazed salmon sounds wonderful.
Zinnia beams, patting your chest. "I'll be happy to go and place an order for you. I hope your bath continues to be rejuvenating. Are you also in need of any healing services, sir? As your friends were? I am not a healer myself, but I can find you someone with capable skill if so."
Alrik laughs slightly louder than he should. "Thank you for the offer, Zinnia. I'm quite fine. None of the blood on me is my own."
"Of course, I should have known. Such a capable soldier you are. Your nimble muscles must be fast from your many battles..."
She touches the scales on your left arm delicately. "Do these have a story? And the spines on your back... You seem to share many traits with your friend there." Her eyes twinkle with curiosity.
(Granted Chantry, you had no idea before you had spines. XD that was what happened with the headache in the grove, when you pressed your back against the rib bone.)
"Spines? That's new..." he shrugs. "I always had a small patch of rough skin on my shoulders and down by spine, but something happened earlier today... more power than I've ever felt coursed through me. It happened in the grove when we were attempting to collect fireblooms for the priests at the temple." He holds up his left arm, admiring the scales to himself as well as letting her get a better look. "This happened then, too... when I slammed a goblin into the ground and poured energy into a spell."
Zinnia's eyes widen again, observing the glistening, dark scales. She rubs her hand along your back, and you distinctly feel her trace the spines there now. They're not extremely sharp, but rather bony, like plates.
"It's so kind of you to help our little city here. We've been okay, but in the recent year things have just been a bit more... Dismal. More injured, more wars, more raids on caravans outside the city... We really needed a fellow like you."
Alrik nods. "You're welcome, miss..." he adds with a chuckle, "mind you, I didn't think I'd be doing military work so soon again."
"Perhaps it sounded... Familiar, and comfortable in a way? Like you said, you do what you want." She climbs up and sits on the edge of the bathing pool, stroking Alrik's hair. "Part of you knows what those men go through, and you wish to help them. That's admirable."
Zinnia stands, bowing to you. "So it is ready for when you retire to your room, I will place your dinner order now sir. I hope that is all right. Would you like me to bring you any further drinks from our selection upon my return? Or would you prefer me to bring your dinner to your room presently?"
Alrik stands, tipping the remainder of his brandy into his mouth and swallowing. "I think I'll head to my room, now. Thank you, Zinnia. Dinner would be lovely. Make sure to put in an order for a couple pieces of that glazed salmon. I look forward to sharing with you!"
She gracefully takes your empty glass, trading it for a soft towel. Retrieving the tray and empty bottle on the ground she nods, "As you wish, soldier." With a wink, she bustles back to the kitchens.
Alrik strolls out from the baths and grabs a bowl of fruit from the buffet. "Fruit is always good." He mutters as he heads to his room
A few servers wave in greeting to you as you pass by. An extremely bearded fellow, smoking from a tall hookah, nods in hello.
You arrive at your room, across the way from Atriox's. You find it in the same beautiful fashion as he did, all the details rather impressive. As you expected, your military garb has been cleaned of the blood splatter and dirt. It looks almost brand new, aside from the missing patches and slightly faded trim.
Before you can close your door, the server Zinnia comes up behind you. "Dinner is served, sir. And another bottle of brandy, courtesy of the head mistress." She bears a platter with all you could want.
(Unless you guys wish to rp or say anything further, I can fade those two scenes to black and have you start your next day XD lol)
(I'm good to fade to morning)
Atrioxs admires the woman all around him but of course he cant help his curiosity. He gets the attention of the nearest serving girl and call her over. " can you fetch the madam of the house for me. Its nothing serious just want to ask her something. Thank you." He gives her one gold coin for her help
The server Atriox flagged down nods, happily fetching the matron of the establishment. The woman from earlier appears, a glass of firebrandy for him. "Hello again Sir. Is everything to your liking?"
Atriox smiles up at the madam and says "tell about the women with the tail trying to serve the dragonborn over there."
The matron talking with Atriox chuckles. "You mean Dahlia? Quite the sweetheart, isn't she? She came to Dragonshore several years ago. Seems to have some Dragonborn blood in her. Quite a lot, actually... Beautiful red scales... Easily one of our more exotic servers. The master of the house, Oxious, met her at the time and introduced her to our business. Would you like me to send her to meet you?"
Atriox watches this Dahila for a moment before answering the madam with a smile.
"Indeed I would.....in fact should she be agreeable enough I'll pay for her for the week.
"Most certainly, Sir. I'll speak with her presently... It will work out nicely, seeing as she is one of our resident healers as well." The madam smiles benignly and departs.
Atriox, you watch from a distance as the matron stops Dahlia before she heads back to the kitchens. Unable to hear what they're discussing, you do catch the young woman's eyes turn in your direction for just a moment. You see her nod, before the matron leaves carrying the girls tray. Dahlia gracefully makes her way over.
"Hello sir," she croons, her voice like dark honey. "You requested my presence with you this evening?" Up close she seems even more interesting. Her eyes almost glow with the light they reflect. You spot small ivory horns along her jaw, and her canines are noticeably more pointed. Her physique is almost a perfect mix of human and draconian.
Atriox throws her a charming smile. "Hello there my lady." He stands and takes her hand "I was told your name is Dahlia, what a beautiful name." He formally kisses the top of her hand.
He sits back into the pool relaxing once more.
"I'm told you are a healer ? That's good as you may be able to see I will need some of that later." Atriox chuckles "But for now how about you come into the water with me and relax Dahlia. Tell me some things about yourself."
Dahlia smiles, accepting your offer. "My, you are quite the gentleman. And the fighter... I can see you've been through a few scrapes."
She settles into the pool, taking a nearby towel and wetting it in the water. She begins to bathe your scales, wiping dried blood from your face. "As for me... you seem to already know I am a healer here. I've been in Dragonshore some time, and often assist the other soldiers who stop by."
She cleans off your neck slowly, looking at the fresh scar. "You don't seem like a recruit from Stonebreak... Are you?"
Atriox enjoys the feeling of Dahlia washing him and his wounds. After a moment of pleasure he looks at her again. "Indeed I have been to Stonebreak but Nay I am not a recruite. We have a.....unsteady contract with them to help protect the town and scout the ruins."
He breaks a moment and just enjoys the water and the sight of this magnificent creature in front of him.
"They rather did not like that I spared a certain Kobold and recruited him. They are very closed minded... granted I suppose they have reason to be but still.....it limits how much we can work together. In fact I am from a far off kingdom of my kind" ......he states at her for a second...."our kind"
He reaches up and gently grabs her chin to angle her face so that he can better see her amazing golden eyes.
After a second he let's go and says with a chuckle "forgive me my lady your eyes are just simply magnificent. Like two golden rare Jewels."
Dahlia takes the advances with grace and poise, playfully turning away her gaze. "You have a silver tongue, good sir... It is very kind of you to say such lovely things. And you have a gentle heart it seems, for all of our kind, given the history of your new... Squire."
She continues cleaning your horns and hair, using her hands with care. You look and feel quite a bit more refreshed. "I've heard the exploits of the soldiers, usually from my friends. They don't all to often seek my company, seeing as... Well," Dahlia smirks. "they are often too busy slaying scaly beasts to be laying--"
She chuckles, "Pardon me... Forgive my detour of the conversation. A far off land, you say? How far have you traveled?" She quickly changes the subject from the soldiers, not wanting to persue an unpleasant or uncomfortable conversation for you.
Atriox looks intently at her. His sharp eyes monitoring every aspect of her, drinking it all in.
"I may tell you about my homeland.....or at least what I remember of it. But I'm more interested in continuing our conversation."
"So is that how you feel that the kobolds.....maybe even me.....are just scaly beasts ?"
Though Atriox is mixed with emotions he is doing his absolute best to keep a cam and level charming smile.
She gently leans Atriox forward to wash his back. "I'm sincerely sorry, sir, I meant no disrespect at all. I am ashamed of my sharpness." She bows her head, as she would to any patron she might upset. She seems to be used to it, like she is often a bit more abrasive than most visitors enjoy.
"I only meant it lightheartedly, but in poor taste. Some visitors prefer using that term, or prefer that style of server even... I've heard it on occasion." She looks away. "You are no beast, fair sir."
Atriox looks at her from the side as she scrubs his back."I hope you are not ashamed of that part of your heritage. It would be such a shame. Your a beautiful being. A perfect balance between human and dragon if there where such as thing."
He looks at her a moment longer.
"Let's make a deal. Though I do want you for your services I also find you very intriguing and alluring. But that mean nothing if you hide behind these words and acts such as bowing your head. Be truthful and be honest. Let us have real talk between us and this will be so much more enjoyable I promise you that." (Charisma 15+2)
Dahlia glances up at Atriox and gives him a long look. You can tell she's really mulling over your words, as if being asked something like this is unheard of for her.
She straightens, lifting her head up more confidentially. There's an incredible change in demeanor with her, and her eyes flash in the reflective water. "As you wish, sir. I aim to please."
Dahlia seems to contemplate her words before she speaks. "I know not of my draconian heritage... My mother was a captive during the wars in the east. She escaped and had me not a few months later in a small village near Southspire. My birth was... an anomaly."
She waits a moment, then continues. "The people cared not for the dragons invading their homeland, and one among them..." she shakes her head. "But I understood it. And ill-gotten though my features be, I never hated who or what my father was. I knew who I was, and that's all that mattered to me."
She goes back to scrubbing Atriox's back, taking delicate care of his fins and spikes. "I was raised as a priestess in my youth, and by-and-by... found myself here."
Atriox continues to let her do her job as he senses it is helping her by being focused on something.
"I am glad that you are ok with how your body is......it is most beautiful. I'm glad you do not hate your father who ever or wherever he may be. If these people cant see you beauty than they are even more close minded than I thought !"
He says the last bit with a growl blowing some steam out of his nose.
He regains his composure though and stands. He looks to her and says with a smile "your turn to relax and let me wash you."
Dahlia looks slightly taken aback at Atriox, but the expression is so quick it was almost non-existent. "But of course. Whatever you desire, I desire." With a smile she moves in the water to be in front of him.
"So tell me of your history. Where is your family?"
Atriox starts at her feet and legs. He cleans her a little even though he knows she doesn't need it. He then puts the aside what he was using to clean her and just rubs her feet and legs all the while smiling at her.
He contemplates what to tell her. Finally he sees no harm in telling her. He did after all say he wanted honesty between them.
As he massages her feet and legs he starts to tell his tale. " I am from a far off kingdom called Skyhold. It was a place ruled by Dragonborn but all were welcome through its gates. The city had outlining camps of Kobold villages. Prouder creatures than the ones this town are accustomed to. I left when I was but 8. You see the kingdom was attacked.....by what I dont know. I dont even know if the kingdom still remains or was utterly destroyed. I know not what happened to my family for we were separated amid the battle and chaos."
"I had a sister and parents of course. I was always trying to make my father the king happy and proud though I wonder if I have failed in that."
He sighs "I am a Prince without a home or nation"
He realizes hes not looking at Dahlia or massaging her. Hes just sitting there holding one if her feet gently while looking into the water as if searching for something.
Finally he snaps out of it with a smile "ah but I am truly sorry my lady. I have thickened the air with my sorrows when this is supposed to be a chance for us to relax and enjoy ourselves. Forgive me my lady I beg of you. " he finishes by continuing to rub her feet and planting a kiss on the top of them.
Dahlia eyes Atriox, wondering if she can believe such a tale. A far off prince from a lost kingdom? She'd heard many tales, but not one quite so wild as that...
She politely nods, "There is nothing to forgive. You are relaxing and enjoying yourself. I as well, though, it is my duty here to provide for our patrons."
She gestures to his wounds. "Why don't we get you bandaged up, sir prince? It seems you're thoroughly bathed, so the healing should proceed smoothly. What is your wish?"
Atriox laughs "ahhhh a skeptic mind who doesn't believe my tale. That's alright. It makes no difference here who I am. Prince or no Prince I'm still just the man in front of you.
"Aye you may tend to my wounds but let us take the task to my room shall we ? I need to make sure Tak is alright on our way."
He stands and gets out of the water showing all his glory. Not ashamed of showing his body or the marks on it that show his journey. "Hand me my robe would you Dahlia?"
She hands him the robe, politely keeping eye contact with Atriox. "I didn't say I doubted your tale, and it would be unfair of me to do so if I did..." Dahlia shakes her head.
"But I agree. Let me fetch my tools, and I will meet you at your room. Best of luck with your friend." She bows slightly and makes her way out.
Tak swims about lazily, watching the two of you with a bored look. He snorts out an exasperated sigh and paddles toward the other pools for a while.
Tak eventually climbs out at the edge of the far pool, near a blossoming tree. It seems enchanted to drop petals every now and then. He sticks his tongue out and gags at it.
Shaking off the perfumed water, he slowly, cautiously makes his way indoors. He feels trapped being within walls with humans, but the growling of his stomach is too great.
He slips under the chairs, (13) peeking up from below the buffet. Tak grabs half a roasted chicken without anyone noticing, clutching it to himself under a table in the corner. He slowly gnaws on it, almost not tasting it given his mood.
He just watches the crowds move about, the servers bus tables, and a musician pluck out a lulling melody. Every so often, he grabs at his coin again to make sure it's still there.
Atriox watches her leave confused his tail thrashes around slowly......he doesn't know exactly what to make of this woman. He shakes his head blowing some steam out of his nostril as he does and heads to look for Tak.
Tak meanwhile is sneaking back outside with a whole pie, (3) and you easily spot him making his way up a tree. He slumps down in a branch, picking out handfuls of food.
Atriox approaches Tak. "Having fun I trust my little freind ?"
He jumps at your voice, looking red eyed. "Sure, sure..." he mumbles with a slur as he shoves a handful of the apple filling in his mouth. You figure he's snatched a few bottles of alcohol during his time away from you.
Atriox smirks knowingly. "That's good my freind you look better believe it or not. You have all the food you want. Do you mind if me and the lady from earlier retire up to my room ?"
He waves a claw, flicking apple bits around. "Go, shoo, have your fun." Tak drunkenly clutches to the pie, biting out chunks of it.
Atriox laughs one last time and heads torwards his room.
When you arrive, you find a modest sized suite--larger than most inns you've stayed at. The furniture is all of an intricate elven design, and it sports a small bathroom and wood burning stove. Your coin definitely paid for the best rooms here... and it shows.
On the table you spot your armor and clothing, carefully washed and even mended. This has got to be one of the nicest brothels you've ever enjoyed a stay at.
Dahlia knocks at the door, a bag of herbs and linens with her. She smiles, holding it up in a clawed hand. "Hello again. Is everything to your liking?"
Atriox sits in a chair and looks at Dahlia. "Come do your work madam." As he lets her do her work he debates if there is anything here remotely between the two of them. Not just romantically but anything.
He finally makes his mind up. " I have a proposal for you Dahlia. I already discussed it with the Matron but I wont go forward with it if you do not like. I propose that you attend and accompany me the next week I'm in town. Requiring you see no other patron or man during that time. You do not have to sleep with me for your job. I only would like that if you want it to I suppose. Just your company is what I'm buying if you'd allow me. What do you think?"
Working a salve into the damaged scales across his abdomen and chest--puncture wounds from the spider in the forest--she glances up at him with a strange look. She can't seem to hide it this time.
"Forgive me for being blunt, but," she sits back, setting the salve down and wiping her hands clean. "You paid for the top tier services of our establishment, and--mind you, I don't take you for fool in the slightest, I know you're aware of what type of business this is--"
Dahlia cocks her head to the side, her eyes glinting. She gestures with her hand as she bandages him up. "You really wish for me to just... Spend time with you? In town? Not here?"
Atriox chuckles "indeed in town and also here at times. But only to talk eat and drink etc. If that's what you wish that is."
She contemplates the offer. You can tell she is especially thoughtful, not jumping to a yes purely because it is your request as the guest.
She chances a question first. "The matron stated the bill for an entire week would be... Easily 20 gold. Is that... Affordable for you? Do you still wish such a thing?"
"Not including the charge for the rooms, should you wish to stay in our best quarters for the whole week... That would add up to another 60. Not that I doubt your pocketbook, Dragonborn. Only..." she hesitates.
Atriox says "go on"
"That's a fair lot, that's all." She brushes some of her black hair behind her ear. "For something so simple."
She keeps watching you, almost as if she questions if it a joke. "But you wish this?"
Atriox nods to her "aye I wish it. I wish your company for as long as I'm in this town. For as long as you find mine pleasing that is"
He pauses for abit " as for the price me and the Matron will negotiate that dont you worry."
She nods slowly. "Alright. It is well with me." A small smile grows at the corner of her mouth. "Pray tell, what would you wish for me to call you by?"
Atriox chuckles "My name........is Prince Atriox of the kingdom of Skyhold. But of course you may just call me Atriox......or handsome I dont particular mind with way." He winks at her and chuckles again
Dahlia can't help it, she lets out a laugh. Genuine this time. "You are something else. Prince Atriox of Skyhold..." she uses his title, putting playful emphasis on the words.
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