Milleen laughed her sly snicker. She stepped forward quickly, causing both the single and the group of wolves to scatter back. Clearly, their respect for their mistress was absolute. "It seems you've been claimed, Son of Dag," she chuckled again, while the remaining wolves started back to their homes.
The one before him began to roll back and forth in the snow on its back, right at his feet. "And by a very special bitch, too."
Sævil's voice lowers and becomes throaty as he reaches for the belly of the wolf before him, "Hello lovely," he says while giving her a good rub.
Njord made sure his voice could be heard by Ohrin, to fill him in on the young visitors. "It is amazing that you can sense the gnome-lings. They came here earlier today -- the Ruddyfoot children: Hoddy, Goodwin, Marta and Matildya. They bore gifts. Food and drink. And brave, dear Matildya was kind enough to give me warrior to help in battles." Njord had moved toward his cot and held out a hand to present the owlbear-doll that sat at station against his pillow. Smiling with full-heartedness, he introduced the creature. "This is Olivia Owlbear. I am told she is fierce fighter!"
Oddly, Ohrin looked askance at the doll before saying, with a forced smile, "That was...very nice of them." He then turned back to his lists and maps.
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Njord stepped back toward Crow Jane. "Speaking of food, if you are hungry, perhaps we have something you like?"
Sævil's voice lowers and becomes throaty as he reaches for the belly of the wolf before him, "Hello lovely," he says while giving her a good rub.
The wolf seemed delighted by his affections. She rolled back and forth, seemingly oblivious to the bitter cold of the snow – provided he continue his ministrations, her salmon tongue lolling happily from her mouth. The northman watched her tail wag while he rubbed her stomach, reveling in the sensation of the surprisingly soft fur there. The whole of her demeanor belied the danger implicit in the act: Her teeth seemed immense in her mouth and shockingly sharp.
In the moment, everyone seemed pleased. Except Milleen. She stood at Sævil's side and made a little face. Her small scaled hand went to her chin in a thoughtful gesture. “Hmm,” she mused. “A problem. I might have known it would be this one.”
Stretched out as she was, the wolf was almost as long as Sævil was tall. “It's a very interesting pup that's chosen you, Son of Dag,” she said. Her grey fur was almost the exact color of slate stone.
Njord made sure his voice could be heard by Ohrin, to fill him in on the young visitors. "It is amazing that you can sense the gnome-lings. They came here earlier today -- the Ruddyfoot children: Hoddy, Goodwin, Marta and Matildya. They bore gifts. Food and drink. And brave, dear Matildya was kind enough to give me warrior to help in battles."
Jane was so strange. She was absolutely impossible to read. Her expression never seemed to change. Her utterly black eyes reflected no sort of emotion. “I smell them. Their scent is all about the room. Strongest, there,” she nodded in the vague direction of Njord's chosen bed. “I can smell the freshness of the bread and the water they brought. It comes from the bakery of the halfling, Flowerfield.”
Njord had moved toward his cot and held out a hand to present the owlbear-doll that sat at station against his pillow. Smiling with full-heartedness, he introduced the creature. "This is Olivia Owlbear. I am told she is fierce fighter!"
Jane took a half-step in the direction of the bed, where the stuffed animal had rest. She stared upon it, even as he held it aloft for her inspection. “It is magical?” she asked. “I smell your hands and those of one of the gnome-hatchlings upon it. And the Creeping One, too. He made it, I suppose?”
Oddly, Ohrin looked askance at the doll before saying, with a forced smile, "That was...very nice of them." He then turned back to his lists and maps.
“This is perhaps not so strange,” Jane remarked. “I am told it is a custom amongst you featherless ones to offer the finest food and drink to those condemned to die.”
Njord stepped back toward Crow Jane. "Speaking of food, if you are hungry, perhaps we have something you like?"
“No,” she said, instead staying right where she stood. Njord watched her eyes scanning around the room while Ohrin continued the labor of examining his papers. He expected that she might say something more, but instead a prolonged silence fell over the room, instead. So strange.
Finally: “We leave to tread Black Ice,” she said. “Soon, I think.”
Njord found Crow Jane's certainty interesting, but incorrect. "Uh, very sorry, Jane. Please forgive. We are here to find group of travelers to head to Black Ice. We await Saevil, our companion, so that we may question you about journey, to find if you may be suitable for such long trek. Unfortunately, decisions have not yet been made. We will wait little while. If Saevil does not return soon, i guess we begin without him." Njord had smiled as cordially as he could while speaking.
But what he did not say was that, surprisingly, he was starting to not only tolerate, but even to like, this strange creature. What he found favorable most, Crow Jane seemed no-nonsense and as blunt as one could be. And Njord was hoping to deal with as little horseshit as possible on the Black Ice. In addition, she seemed to share his assessment that the journey was merely a saunter to their graves. Yes, he could see her on the expedition.
Njord returned to a question she had posed. He turned again to look at and to indicate the owlbear doll at his pillow. "As far as Olivia is magical, she certainly is to me." He smiled broadly. "But if you mean dweomered, i doubt this. Is Dark One known for making such things?"
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In the moment, everyone seemed pleased. Except Milleen. She stood at Sævil's side and made a little face. Her small scaled hand went to her chin in a thoughtful gesture. “Hmm,” she mused. “A problem. I might have known it would be this one.”
Stretched out as she was, the wolf was almost as long as Sævil was tall. “It's a very interesting pup that's chosen you, Son of Dag,” she said. Her grey fur was almost the exact color of slate stone.
"Oh?" Sævil looks up from the wolf, but continues to give her a good scratch, "Is there a problem Milleen?"
In the moment, everyone seemed pleased. Except Milleen. She stood at Sævil's side and made a little face. Her small scaled hand went to her chin in a thoughtful gesture. “Hmm,” she mused. “A problem. I might have known it would be this one.”
Stretched out as she was, the wolf was almost as long as Sævil was tall. “It's a very interesting pup that's chosen you, Son of Dag,” she said. Her grey fur was almost the exact color of slate stone.
"Oh?" Sævil looks up from the wolf, but continues to give her a good scratch, "Is there a problem Milleen?"
Njord found Crow Jane's certainty interesting, but incorrect. "Uh, very sorry, Jane. Please forgive. We are here to find group of travelers to head to Black Ice. We await Saevil, our companion, so that we may question you about journey, to find if you may be suitable for such long trek. Unfortunately, decisions have not yet been made. We will wait little while. If Saevil does not return soon, i guess we begin without him." Njord had smiled as cordially as he could while speaking.
But what he did not say was that, surprisingly, he was starting to not only tolerate, but even to like, this strange creature. What he found favorable most, Crow Jane seemed no-nonsense and as blunt as one could be. And Njord was hoping to deal with as little horseshit as possible on the Black Ice. In addition, she seemed to share his assessment that the journey was merely a saunter to their graves. Yes, he could see her on the expedition.
She paused for a moment, her black eyes fixed on the fire as if lost in thought. Then, she turned to Njord and at last spoke: "I will remain, I think," she replied. "It makes little sense to return home. You will choose me soon enough. Wasteful, to walk in the cold, instead."
Said so matter-of-factly. As if it were foregone conclusion.
Njord returned to a question she had posed. He turned again to look at and to indicate the owlbear doll at his pillow. "As far as Olivia is magical, she certainly is to me." He smiled broadly. "But if you mean dweomered, i doubt this. Is Dark One known for making such things?"
"I do not know," she replied, gazing at Olivia's soft down. "I only know that he is of the Creeping Folk. They are a magical sort. If she is as fierce as you say, then I presume that she must be enchanted."
She looked back to at Njord as if for answers. Clearly, mannish humor eluded her.
It was something the northman could empathize with.
"Oh?" Sævil looks up from the wolf, but continues to give her a good scratch, "Is there a problem Milleen?"
The kobold merely shrugged. "Even if there was," she said in her raspy voice, barely above the roar of the frigid wind, "there is aught either of us could do about it. She has chosen you, and that is that. Now, it falls to you to name her and allow her to remain at your heel."
Milleen smirked slightly. "We will need to bring much meat on our voyage across Black Ice," she opined. "If not before, then surely now."
"A pup like her will eat your weight in fresh kill every day, you know."
She paused for a moment, her black eyes fixed on the fire as if lost in thought. Then, she turned to Njord and at last spoke: "I will remain, I think," she replied. "It makes little sense to return home. You will choose me soon enough. Wasteful, to walk in the cold, instead."
Said so matter-of-factly. As if it were foregone conclusion.
Njord found Crow Jane's self-assurance both amusing and a bit unsettling at the same time. He flicked his eyes toward Ohrin to see if he was having any reaction to her confidence, but the mage simply continued to examine the papers before him.
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"I do not know," she replied, gazing at Olivia's soft down. "I only know that he is of the Creeping Folk. They are a magical sort. If she is as fierce as you say, then I presume that she must be enchanted."
She looked back to at Njord as if for answers. Clearly, mannish humor eluded her.
It was something the northman could empathize with.
Njord thought it might be pointless, but he tried an explanation nonetheless. "Jane, i think it merely...eh...exaggerative...," Njord missed the correct word, but continued, "way of speaking. Like the child pretends that doll has real abilities. So Olivia seems fierce to little Matildya. I don't think is more than such."
Njord, while waiting for a possible response, began thinking of things to ask Crow Jane that weren't directly related to the journey. In addition, though he mostly found this creature interesting and possibly trek-worthy, he was beginning to wonder whether she was trying some sort of sorcery on them, to convince them to take her -- and the evening had been going so well.
She paused for a moment, her black eyes fixed on the fire as if lost in thought. Then, she turned to Njord and at last spoke: "I will remain, I think," she replied. "It makes little sense to return home. You will choose me soon enough. Wasteful, to walk in the cold, instead."
At this, Ohrin raised his head.
"Hopefully Saevil will return soon and then we can discuss the matter further. To be frank, I was expecting to discuss all of our petitioners with my comrades before meeting with any of them, on the morrow. But, seeing as you are here and live outside of town, it is prudent that you remain."
"Now, it falls to you to name her and allow her to remain at your heel."
Milleen smirked slightly. "We will need to bring much meat on our voyage across Black Ice," she opined. "If not before, then surely now."
"A pup like her will eat your weight in fresh kill every day, you know."
Sævil looks back down at the she-pup, "Astafrejlva is her name," he playfully grabs her muzzle, "Astafrejlva is your name."
He stands and faces Milleen, "She's beautiful, thank you Milleen. I've no idea how we can possibly feed her so much meat - certainly we cannot carry so much unless you have near a hundred teams of wolves to pull our sleds. Let us hope the hunting is fair.
"I should return to my peers to further discuss the mission. I ask that you prepare as many teams of dogs are you are able, and what supplies you need. Anything you require that you do not have, we shall set to finding once you meet us in town."
Sævil carefully describes where the team is staging, and turns to head back to town.
She paused for a moment, her black eyes fixed on the fire as if lost in thought. Then, she turned to Njord and at last spoke: "I will remain, I think," she replied. "It makes little sense to return home. You will choose me soon enough. Wasteful, to walk in the cold, instead."
At this, Ohrin raised his head.
Njord found Crow Jane's self-assurance both amusing and a bit unsettling at the same time. He flicked his eyes toward Ohrin to see if he was having any reaction to her confidence, but the mage simply continued to examine the papers before him.
"Hopefully Saevil will return soon and then we can discuss the matter further. To be frank, I was expecting to discuss all of our petitioners with my comrades before meeting with any of them, on the morrow. But, seeing as you are here and live outside of town, it is prudent that you remain."
Jane nodded. It was difficult to say what she thought of what he'd said. Perhaps she was satisfied that he had, essentially, agreed with her. It was just as easy to suppose that she met the comment with disdain. As ever, she was completely inscrutable. "Sævil now trafficks with the wolfmonger," she offered. What she thought of the arrangement, she did not say. "Her name decorates your list, I think." Said as a statement of fact; not an absent musing.
Njord thought it might be pointless, but he tried an explanation nonetheless. "Jane, i think it merely...eh...exaggerative...," Njord missed the correct word, but continued, "way of speaking. Like the child pretends that doll has real abilities. So Olivia seems fierce to little Matildya. I don't think is more than such."
Njord, while waiting for a possible response, began thinking of things to ask Crow Jane that weren't directly related to the journey. In addition, though he mostly found this creature interesting and possibly trek-worthy, he was beginning to wonder whether she was trying some sort of sorcery on them, to convince them to take her -- and the evening had been going so well.
"Dangerous," the black-feathered kenku replied, "to assume. There are things that children see with their new eyes that slowly become invisible with the passage of days. May be there is more to the playtoy than you might suspect, I think. Already, you have lent it magic of your own kind. It shows in your eyes when you brandish it."
She turned her dark eyes over towards Ohrin. "You are a sorcerer," she said. "You can spy such things with your weird eye, I think?"
"A pup like her will eat your weight in fresh kill every day, you know."
Sævil looks back down at the she-pup, "Astafrejlva is her name," he playfully grabs her muzzle, "Astafrejlva is your name."
The wolf became still for a moment, gazing at Sævil down the length of her long, vaguely pointed muzzle. Her incredible blue eyes seemed depthless: A vast, icy ocean of pure color held within their quality. In his grasp, he could feel her breathing, The soft tactility of her fur was warm to the touch. He knew it was foolish, but he found himself thinking that it was as if she was pausing to mull the quality of the name she'd been given.
All at once, she abruptly shook her head, rolling off her back and standing upright. The wolf began to push her head up against his hand, brushing the sides of her face against it in long strokes. A pause, to gaze up into his eyes once again with her incredible wintery stare.
Astafrejlva. This is my name. And it is a good name.
She found the bare flesh at the union of his furred glove, licking it intently and energetically. It made him smile.
He stands and faces Milleen, "She's beautiful, thank you Milleen. I've no idea how we can possibly feed her so much meat - certainly we cannot carry so much unless you have near a hundred teams of wolves to pull our sleds. Let us hope the hunting is fair.
"She will hunt for herself, when she needs to," the kobold said, folding her arms across her chest. "You are very fortunate that you have chosen one another when she is so small. For now, she will eat no more than might a normal wolf. In a few months, though, you will see. But this is not necessarily a bad thing, I suppose. If the hunting is good and you treat with her well, Astafrejlva will bring you back enough kill for the both of you to share. If the hunting is poor or you are cruel to her...you should know now to beware."
"I should return to my peers to further discuss the mission. I ask that you prepare as many teams of dogs are you are able, and what supplies you need. Anything you require that you do not have, we shall set to finding once you meet us in town."
Milleen offered a bit of a smirk. "Am I to assume that I have been chosen, then?" she asked. "Even before your grand meeting with your fellows?"
Sævil carefully describes where the team is staging, and turns to head back to town. "Very well," she nodded. "I will prepare my pack. And when you call for us -- I will be sure that we are ready."
Sævil turned and began to walk away from the imitation of a mine, set in a wolf-infested honeycomb of caverns. As he did, Astafrejlva did not move. Instead, she looked up at Milleen, as if confused.
"Go with your master," the kobold bade her. "His path is yours now."
The northman got a few feet further away, his head turned back towards the wolf. Another step and she turned away from Milleena, jauntily beginning to follow the steps Sævil crushed in the snow, in the direction of his fellowship's headquarters.
Even before they set off upon their grand expedition, he couldn't help but feel like another journey had just begun.
"Dangerous," the black-feathered kenku replied, "to assume. There are things that children see with their new eyes that slowly become invisible with the passage of days. May be there is more to the playtoy than you might suspect, I think. Already, you have lent it magic of your own kind. It shows in your eyes when you brandish it."
She turned her dark eyes over towards Ohrin. "You are a sorcerer," she said. "You can spy such things with your weird eye, I think?"
"Can you not say for certain?"
Once again, Ohrin looked up from his lists. "Er, what? You want me to ascertain if a child's doll is magical? Exactly why do you think it might be? Magic is not to be used frivolously; it is a gift from the Lord of All Magic."
"Dangerous," the black-feathered kenku replied, "to assume. There are things that children see with their new eyes that slowly become invisible with the passage of days. May be there is more to the playtoy than you might suspect, I think. Already, you have lent it magic of your own kind. It shows in your eyes when you brandish it."
She turned her dark eyes over towards Ohrin. "You are a sorcerer," she said. "You can spy such things with your weird eye, I think?"
"Can you not say for certain?"
Once again, Ohrin looked up from his lists. "Er, what? You want me to ascertain if a child's doll is magical? Exactly why do you think it might be? Magic is not to be used frivolously; it is a gift from the Lord of All Magic."
Jane glanced in the direction of his fellow and nodded. Every time she did so, the length of her rapier-beak made the gesture look exaggerated. "Is not Njord's word enough?" she asked, fixing him with her utterly dark eyes. In the moment, Ohrin could understand why it was that she had earned for herself a poor reputation within the settlement. Her gaze was the stuff of mysterious curses and ill omens, regardless of any intent.
"It matters not," she decided in the end. "We shall see for ourselves soon enough, yes? And in any case, the Son of Dag comes approaching your stone nest." How she might have known that was not apparent. All either Ohrin or Njord could hear was the sound of the wind and the crackling of the fires in their pits.
Crow Jane was claiming that she knew Saevil was on his way? With a friend? She had called Ohrin a sorcerer. Maybe she was the same? Or had some sort of magical gifts? She was indeed an enigma. Njord knew that taking her along would prove either a great boon or a calamity. He had no idea, however, why he wasn't more averse to this crow-woman. It had him rather baffled. He also knew he'd find out soon enough if she had such power: Saevil, and his friend, would signal sooth. And if she bore such ability, what other secrets lay in wait behind those dark eyes? He spoke to her, almost cautiously.
"Jane, you have mentioned Ohrin's magic and his wierd eye. Maybe you have same? Some second-sight, as is called? You make claims of things that have yet to happen as though already have come to pass. You have such a gift?"
"Jane, you have mentioned Ohrin's magic and his weird eye. Maybe you have same? Some second-sight, as is called? You make claims of things that have yet to happen as though already have come to pass. You have such a gift?"
She returned her attention to the northman. "No," she said in her odd caw-croak of a voice. "We are not alike, you and I. I can see things you cannot, hear things you cannot. This is the way of nature, not the way of the weird. It is another reason why you will soon decide it best if I accompany you, I think."
She paused for a moment. "Hrm," she considered. "Wolf."
A breath after she'd said it, the headquarters' door opened. Instantly, the temperature of the room dropped several degrees, courtesy of the bitter wind that blew in through its open frame and the icy white it swept along its invisible path. Sævil quickly entered past its threshold, shaking a heavy blanket of snow from his shoulders and cloak. Behind him, only a few steps from his heel, a large grey wolf followed, lean and sleek.
Jane looked at Njord for a moment, then down towards the animal.
The warrior closed the door behind himself. Never once did his new companion stray from his side. His companions were there in the headquarters he saw, Ohrin and Njord. Only Kahss seemed absent. Instead, he had been replaced by perhaps the strangest being he'd ever seen in all his days. It was a short thing, thin of frame, wrapped in heavy swaths of dark fabric to protect against the frigid clime. It was about the size of a young woman or an olve, perhaps. The head of a raven, covered in utterly black feathers rest upon the figure's shoulders, however. Gazing back at him with unblinking eyes of utter jet. The wolf gazed right back at it, unblinking herself. Watching; wary.
It said nothing at all by way of greeting.
Subtly, Astafrejlva strode forward, interposing herself between he and the bird-creature.
...the headquarters' door opened. Instantly, the temperature of the room dropped several degrees, courtesy of the bitter wind that blew in through its open frame and the icy white it swept along its invisible path. Sævil quickly entered past its threshold, shaking a heavy blanket of snow from his shoulders and cloak.
Ohrin looked up when the door opened, clearly relieved when Saevil entered. He was about about to greet him when...
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Behind him, only a few steps from his heel, a large grey wolf followed, lean and sleek.
Ohrin's look changed to one of slight nervousness and confusion.
Kraftwerk wrote:
...Subtly, Astafrejlva strode forward, interposing herself between he and the bird-creature.
Standing up, Ohrin said, "No one said anything about any pets. Let alone large, carnivorous ones." Turning to face Jane, Ohrin added, "Crow Jane, is there somewhere in the town you might retire to for an hour or two? I think my companions and I have much to discuss."
As the wolf moved toward Crow Jane, Njord made a similar motion, reaching the bird-woman's front flank. He would be ready to intervene in case the canine opted for an avian dinner. He held up an outstretched hand with a slight wave toward Sævil, hoping it would also act as a signal for the wolf to stop. With a wary smile, Njord addressed the warrior.
"Good Sævil, glad you return. I hope this is friend we have been told about." Njord nodded toward the wolf.
Standing up, Ohrin said, "No one said anything about any pets. Let alone large, carnivorous ones." Turning to face Jane, Ohrin added, "Crow Jane, is there somewhere in the town you might retire to for an hour or two? I think my companions and I have much to discuss."
As the wolf moved toward Crow Jane, Njord made a similar motion, reaching the bird-woman's front flank. He would be ready to intervene in case the canine opted for an avian dinner.
The kenku made something like a snorting noise from her beak. Whatever emotion it was meant to reflect, the wolf was unmoved by it. For her part, Crow Jane averted her gaze from it, turning instead towards Ohrin. "Hrm," she seemed to consider for a moment before deciding. "I will go to see Milleen, I think. When you are ready, you can find me with the wolfmonger."
She started toward the door, giving the wolf a wide birth. On her way, she met Sævil's eyes with her emotionless black stare. The gesture seemed to discomfit Astafrejlva, but fortunately, the kenku made the portal and slipped out before his new friend could protest overmuch. With a sudden appearance and disappearance of the wind and cold, she was gone from their presence. Immediately, the wolf seemed to relax, gradually meandering back towards Sævil's heel.
Njord held up an outstretched hand with a slight wave toward Sævil, hoping it would also act as a signal for the wolf to stop. With a wary smile, Njord addressed the warrior.
"Good Sævil, glad you return. I hope this is friend we have been told about." Njord nodded toward the wolf.
The beast was a beauty: Sleek and powerful. She looked up at Njord with bright blue eyes, full of life and intelligence. He had been about wolves long enough to know that she was a young one, yet absolutely immense for her age.
Once Crow Jane had departed, Ohrin looked a little bit relieved, clearly eager to move forward with discussing the petitioners.
The three of them have a long talk about the petitioners with Ohrin taking extensive notes (chat between Ohrin and Saevil occurred on #greytalk earlier tonight. Waiting on Njord's votes. Once correlated, will share the results).
Sævil reaches absently for the wolf as the Kenku passes out the door, then turns back to his new compatriots.
"Njord, Ohrin! This beauty is Astafrejlva, one of Milleen's pups. She chose me, or so Milleen has explained." He glances back at the door again, "Why was Crow Jane here? And why did she leave?"
Njord more carefully examined the wolf. "She is beauty, true. Astafrejlva is also lovely name." Apparently, Sævil had also been given a gift. His, without a doubt, capable of brutal ferocity. "You are blessed with such an offering."
Njord then responded to Sævil's questions. "Jane was walking out in snow when i return from visit with Captain. She seemed cold. I invite her in to interview her, and to allow her warmth of fire. We were waiting for you." Njord glances at the mage with a head turn and tilt. "Seems, Ohrin wishes discussion before we speak with her. I will go fetch her when we are ready."
After a pause, Njord reflects, "I never asked Jane where she headed. I wonder if she was on way to our head-quarters."
Ohrin finishes taking notes and says, "Ok, here is what we have so far. Using our voting system wherein we each gave a petitioner a score ranging from negative three to positive three, we get the following results and what we know or have heard about each:
With five points:
Soren Stormcloud, male elf priest of The Winged Mother, an elven goddess of air and weather.
Milleen, female kobold trainer of wolves. According to my sources, she is NOT a druid. She is friends with Altansarnai.
A'sila T'shanna, female human Bakluni monk dedicated to Xan Yae, a skilled martial combatant.
With four points:
Asranith Lasiniir, gender unknown to me elf, possibly a cavalier who uses arcane magicks as he/she is reported to ride a spectral steed, deadly archer per Master Retlishin.
Lady Armiger Marissa Osson of Almor, brave and true per Verenna.
Kelvan Farstrider, male half-elf training as a Defender of fishing boats, so a likely martial combatant, I am friendly with him, Saevil believes him to have promise and likes his free spirit.
Altarnarsai, no one has told me his or her gender, human Tiger Nomad, experienced traveler, friends with Milleen, Saevil like his tracking and survival abilities.
Lukasz Ravel, gender unknown to me, human former constable in the Free City of Greyhawk, Saevil says he is a promising fighter but a bit simple minded.
Crow Jane, female kenku, former henchman of a powerful assassin who went missing, has never shirked her duties to Corus, Verenna strongly vouched for her, Saevil said Captain Fireheart said she is dedicated to our community.
Johanna Swiftstoat, female halfling, likely a sneaky practitioner of illusory magicks, Saevil likes her attitude and abilities.
With three points:
Slava, male half-orc, very strong, helped me when I first moved here, friends with Hjalmar Frjalsmour.
Lars Loga, presumably male, judging by the name, human town guardsman, Njord gave him a two but didn't say why.
Hjalmir Frjalsmaur, presumably male human, friends with Slava, dull-witted by very strong, Saevil says he is a stoic human pack mule.
Nevin Stoutshield, male hill dwarf, friendly to me, interested in volatile alchemy, skilled architect and/or engineer.
That gives us thirteen, so far. As we have ten petitioners receiving two points, I believe we will need to eliminate three of the two-pointers, whom I will list in a moment, from consideration. Before I do so, does anyone have any last objections to any of the previously mentioned names?
(OOC: I have to go to work, will post the two-pointers' info when I get home tonight.)
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"Ok, moving on to the two-pointers. There are twelve of them. That would put our number at twenty-five, which seems unwieldy. I suggest that we cull at least five of them, if not more.
Kharaz Stonemilker, male hill dwarf bartender.
Lertan Stonemilker, male hill dwarf chef.
Minek Stonemilker, male hill dwarf security and book keeper. All three bothers are friendly to me.
Idriel von Fluss-Amberhill, gender unknown to me gnome, presumably female, Veranna mentioned something about being royalty, I have no idea what skills she would bring with her and would prefer to interview her before we select her.
Karstren Esil, gender unknown to me human, presumably male, former quartermaster for a mercenary company according to Master Retlishin, which I think would be very useful.
Jonas Cerny, male human military mountaineer, married to Peta Cerny, friendly to me, friend of Yrist Vrabrenn, whom we do not seem to want to invite to join us.
Lucion Inmarial, male high elf, some sort of spellcaster who is attempting to mix the natural with the arcane, possibly a druid and magic-user. Would like to speak with him to determine the extent of his abilities, if any, before removing from our list.
Gerrit Lashander, male human mage, oddly respected in town, might be powerful with magic but a bit lacking in control.
Renada Rabbitwarren, female gnome mage, skilled alchemist.
Merrick Flowerfield, male halfling, pleasant to me, skilled chef, Saevil is not sure he would be useful.
Faeranna Nightsky, female half elf, I believe she mixes martial skill with arcane magic, Saevil is not sure what she brings to the table.
Markus Restantin, gender unknown to me elf, assuming male, I believe he is a sneaky martial devotee of Erevan Ilsere, elven god of mischief.
Right now, if we had to cut five from the two-pointers, I would suggest cutting the Stonemilker brothers as it just seems like bad luck to tempt fate by bringing all three along, perhaps we should just invite Lertan to be company cook, Idriel von Fluss-Amberhill, and Merrick Flowerfield.
Before we decide on the two-pointers, please let me know if we are all accepting of the previously listed petitioners. What say you?"
Njord wonders if there might be a problem bringing "shorter" characters, if we might be running into deep snow, snowdrifts, etc. He's no "height-ist", but it may be a concern?
Njord's first thoughts (good / bad-in-italics) about the +2-group. These are in order from favorite to least-desired.
Karstren Esil: Quartermaster
Jonas Cerny: Military Mountaineer.
Merrick Flowerfield: Chef. Friendly. / Short.
Faeranna Nightsky: Fighter Mage. (Just like the name, tbh)
Idriel von Fluss-Amberhill: Cap'n F certified. / Short.
Lucion Inmarial: Druidic.
Lertan Stonemilker: Chef. / Short.
Renada Rabbitwarren: Alchemist. / Short.
Minek Stonemilker: / Short.
Kharaz Stonemilker: / Bartender?Short.
Markus Restantin: Fighter/Thief? / Sneaky, as in duplicitous?
Gerrit Lashander: / Mage without control?
If we can get it down to a definite 20 without interviews that would be cool. But willing to interview any and all to get it right. Also open to interviewing definite picks or non-picks. For instance, if we definitely want Jonas Cerny, we might take a look at Yrist Vrabrenn. Etc.
Also, if having shorter folks along won't be an issue, please explain why.
"Yes. Captain Jinmiir scored negative three, Rusland Heatherplans negative one, Monek Friedrich negative two, The Dark One negative one, and Narend Martracin negative two."
[* Ok. Probably my last post for the weekend. I didn't quite finish as i am tired... *]
Here is a list of a) the group order, in suborders within ranks (given +/-) according to Njord's current viewpoints. Asterisks indicate which one's he might have caveats about, depending on certain conditions. Basically ones he thinks would be a good idea to interview.
Code:
01. +5 Milleen: Female Kobold
02.* +5 A'sila T'shanna: Female Human (Baklune) Monk (Xan Yae)
03. +5 Soren Stormcloud: Male Elf Priest.
04. +4 Asranith Lasiniir: Male High-Elf Ranger?
05.* +4 Altarnarsai: Female Human (Tiger Nomad / Bak.) Ranger?
06. +4 Lukasz Ravel: Male Human (Oerid/Flan) Fighter/Thief?
07. +4 Johanna Swiftstoat: Female Halfling Illusionist/Thief?
08.* +4 Crow Jane: Female Kenku Assassin/Mage?
09. +4 Kelvan Farstrider: Male Half-Elf Ranger?
10. +3 Lars Loja: Male Human (Suel/Flan) Fighter?
11. +3 Hjalmir Frjalsmaur: Male Human Fighter?
12. +3 Nevin Stoutshield: Male Hill-Dwarf Alchemist?
13.* +3 Slava: Male Half-Orc Fighter?
------------------------------------------------------
14. +2 Karstren Esil: Quartermaster
15. +2 Jonas Cerny: Military Mountaineer.
16.* +2 Merrick Flowerfield: Chef. Friendly. / Short.
17.* +2 Nightsky: Fighter Mage. (Just like the name, tbh)
18.* +2 Idriel von Fluss-Amberhill: Cap'n F certified. / Short.
19. +2 Lucion Inmarial: Druidic.
20.* +2 Lertan Stonemilker: Chef. / Short.
21. +2 Renada Rabbitwarren: Alchemist. / Short.
22. +2 Minek Stonemilker: / Short.
23. +2 Kharaz Stonemilker: / Bartender? Short.
24.* +2 Markus Restantin: Fighter/Thief? / Sneaky, as in duplicitous?
25.* +2 Gerrit Lashander: / M
-------------------------------------------------
26.* ?? Marissa Osson: Female Human (Oerid) Cavalier?
27. ?? Sir Montgomery Persides: Male Human (Flan) Paladin (Hieron.)
28. ?? Yrist Vrabenn
29. ?? Ballatia Wishilde: Female Human (S/F) Monk?
30. ?? Fantisek Mannenheim
31. ?? Khandraz
32. ?? Sammi Vasternaan
33. ?? Morin Thistlefoot
34. ?? Mirka Dano
--------------------------------------------------
35.* -1 The Dark One
36. -1 Ruslana Heatherplans
37. -2 Narend Matracin
38. -2 Monek Friedrich
39. -3 Jinmiir Ristolier: Male Human?
[*
Did i miss anybody?
Aurdraco,
Would also like to see posted similar lists for Ohrin and Saevil's individual viewpoints, if possible.
*]
Sævil participates in the back and forth of the conversation. During this time he plays with Astafrejlva, encourages her to interact with Njord - and Ohrin if he seems open to it, sips a beverage, and clearly enjoys the time spent discussing the people of Corus. Often he expresses delight at learning something new about someone. Even when he expresses a downvote, he expresses it without rancor or denigrating the person in question.
Code:
Ranked via Syz's system, meta comments in trailing parens.
01. +5 Milleen: Female Kobold
02. +5 A'sila T'shanna: Female Human (Baklune) Monk (Xan Yae)
03. +5 Soren Stormcloud: Male Elf Priest.
04. +4 Altarnarsai: Female Human (Tiger Nomad / Bak.) Ranger?
05. +4 Johanna Swiftstoat: Female Halfling Illusionist/Thief?
06. +4 Lukasz Ravel: Male Human (Oerid/Flan) Fighter/Thief?
07. +4 Kelvan Farstrider: Male Half-Elf Ranger?
08.* +4 Crow Jane: Female Kenku Assassin/Mage?
09. +4 Asranith Lasiniir: Male High-Elf Ranger?
10. +3 Hjalmir Frjalsmaur: Male Human Fighter?
11. +3 Lars Loja: Male Human (Suel/Flan) Fighter?
12. +3 Nevin Stoutshield: Male Hill-Dwarf Alchemist?
13.* +3 Slava: Male Half-Orc Fighter?
------------------------------------------------------
14. +2 Karstren Esil: Quartermaster (a quartermaster by profession is basically a necessity for an expedition of this sort - the knowledge he possesses will also assist in determining if we've found a place that will support our population)
15.* +2 Jonas Cerny: Military Mountaineer. (leaving behind a professional military mountaineer is probably insane, unless there's some disqualifying factor)
16.* +2 Merrick Flowerfield: Chef. Friendly. / Short. (a quality chef may have a huge impact on team morale. i'm in favor of merrick simply because he's the one I know)
17.* +2 Nightsky: Fighter Mage. (Just like the name, tbh)
18.* +2 Idriel von Fluss-Amberhill: Cap'n F certified. / Short.
19. +2 Lucion Inmarial: Druidic.
20.* +2 Lertan Stonemilker: Chef. / Short.
21. +2 Renada Rabbitwarren: Alchemist. / Short.
22. +2 Minek Stonemilker: / Short.
23. +2 Kharaz Stonemilker: / Bartender? Short.
24.* +2 Markus Restantin: Fighter/Thief? / Sneaky, as in duplicitous?
25.* +2 Gerrit Lashander: / M
-------------------------------------------------
26. ?? Marissa Osson: Female Human (Oerid) Cavalier?
27. ?? Sir Montgomery Persides: Male Human (Flan) Paladin (Hieron.)
28. ?? Yrist Vrabenn
29. ?? Ballatia Wishilde: Female Human (S/F) Monk?
30. ?? Fantisek Mannenheim
31. ?? Khandraz
32. ?? Sammi Vasternaan
33. ?? Morin Thistlefoot
34. ?? Mirka Dano
(Who the bloody hell are these people?)
--------------------------------------------------
35.* -1 The Dark One (Probably worth interviewing just in case there's something hidden and useful we dont know about?)
36. -1 Ruslana Heatherplans
37. -2 Narend Matracin
38. -2 Monek Friedrich
39. -3 Jinmiir Ristolier: Male Human?
"Friends, I spent enough time among Perrenlanders to recognize that supply ought not to be traced farther than it must. I suggest we invest less time in worrying at the numbers we bring out of Corus. We should expect to set up a base camp among my people along the Tusking Strand, and perhaps another smaller camp at the very border of the Black Ice.
"From these camps a constant flow of fish and better yet - seal and walrus blubber will keep us supplied. We will have a safe place to retreat in the event of danger or supply shortage. With luck a careful chef and quartermaster will ensure our food is palatable for those of you less used to eating blubber; and mark my words - where we go no amount of conjured food a priest is likely to provide will be enough to keep us going. Out there we will eat many times more than usual; or we..will..die.
"Fair trade goods to my people will ensure their cooperation. Good steel tools are ever in short supply. They will help us make good our losses: Torn parkas, worn out boots, wind and waterproof gear... they can teach and trade with those we leave at camp.
"I know we've been cautioned that too large a group is a risk - I agree - but spread across a camp or two, besides those of us penetrating the Black Ice itself shouldn't be so bad."
Ohrin is half-wary of the wolf, half curious. He will let his left hand hang down so that the creature may approach and sniff it, if it so chooses.
"My father's people have very close bonds with the animals of the Fellreev Forest. However, I grew up in Rookroost, a large city. As long as I am not bitten, we will get along just fine." Ohrin then gets a faraway look for a second before rhetorically asking himself, "I wonder if the spell of strength would work on such a creature..."
Ohrin then continues, "The height worry is a good one! I am unfamiliar with the terrain this far north, and the dangers. While I have not had many dealings with dwarves, I would be surprised if snow was much more of a hindrance to them than it is to us. Halfings, on the other hand, would probably need to be transported with gear and supplies."
"Regarding interviewing, I don't particularly feel it would be useful the interview the petitioners we all agree on. However many you two think we should speak with though, I will not object should the number be no higher than ten. I do not want us to be tied up in committee for a fortnight settling this company. Fair warning: I do plan on asking the Uncaring One to allow me to peer into the souls of any we do interview tomorrow. As a courtesy, I will not examine you, the co-chairs of this expedition, the same way...unless you do something quite alarming in the future."
"On the subject of magic, what do you two think of me turning one member of our company invisible per day? The effect lasts until the recipient acts aggressively towards another creature. I quite like the idea of our company appearing to be smaller than it actually is, unless that eventually attracts more trouble than it's worth."
"In the same vein, which of you two would benefit more from having your strength magically enhanced for several hours per day? I know this spell that I think you might quite enjoy...if I don't save it for myself. Makes it easier to swing this sword around, you see."
"Will unexpected crevices be a likely danger? If so, I can prepare a spell to help save a falling character. However, I do not have the ability to prepare a lot of arcane spells, so each choice must be made carefully."
"Oh, I can also levitate someone. Could be very handy for scouting the terrain ahead, especially an invisible someone."
"Regarding my divine magic, I plan on creating sixteen gallons of water per day (and asking our other divine spellcasting companions to do the same). The rest of my prayers will likely be devoted towards healing spells, just in case (although I do plan to continue to protect myself from the cold for the better part of each day. I will have my cold weather gear with me, I just prefer not to have to wear it!)."
"While I am feeling talkative, how do you two gents prefer to fight? I am very, very proficient with the hand-a-half sword, especially if I have enhanced my strength, and passable with a longbow."
Once the ensuing discussion of the above points has completed, Ohrin will then say, "Now, there was apparently some question as to whether or not the doll is magical. I might as well find out...stay behind me if you do not wish me to know which items you carry are magical."
Ohrin then pulls out his holy symbol and begins to pray to the Uncaring One, "Oh Lord of the Archmages, reveal to your humble servant's eyes the light only you can see, reveal that which is not mundane but is rather magical..." blah blah blah, this continues for a full minute. Upon the casting's completion, Ohrin gazes at the doll for a minute. Then, for good measure, he turns 60* for a minute and examines his surroundings, then repeats this five more times. If his compatriots do not move, he examines them. If they stand behind him as he rotates, he does not appear to examine them. (OOC: KW, please privately share the results with me, Ohrin will decide what he shares)
Ohrin is half-wary of the wolf, half curious. He will let his left hand hang down so that the creature may approach and sniff it, if it so chooses.
It seemed to mirror his sentiments exactly. Ohrin watched the wolf wind its way between Sævil's legs, careful to brush up against the northman several times before making its way in his direction. All the while, it looked up at Ohrin with its incredible blue eyes, completely devoid of white sclera. Only after it had performed the silent ritual, it began to carefully stride in his direction, always sure to interpose itself between him and Sævil. He had seen that type of behavior before. It was marking him as hers -- and letting Ohrin know it in its own wordless way. He'd been told that it was rather commonplace amongst uncommonly intelligent animals, like the Cooshee that ran at the heels of the Sylvan folk during their hunts.
The wolf arrived at Ohrin's side. It was tall enough -- had Sævil called it a pup? -- to sniff at his fingers without craning its neck upward. He felt the soft sensation of its fur grazing his flesh, the wet leather of its nose contacting once or twice. Than, as if it decided its opinion of him, it rubbed it muzzle against his hand affectionately, offering the tips of his fingers a quick lick of its tongue.
"My father's people have very close bonds with the animals of the Fellreev Forest. However, I grew up in Rookroost, a large city. As long as I am not bitten, we will get along just fine." Ohrin then gets a faraway look for a second before rhetorically asking himself, "I wonder if the spell of strength would work on such a creature..."
As he wondered it aloud, the wolf -- a bitch, to see its hindquarters -- turned back towards Sævil and sat patiently at his heel again. Their introductions, it seemed, were complete.
Ohrin then continues, "The height worry is a good one! I am unfamiliar with the terrain this far north, and the dangers. While I have not had many dealings with dwarves, I would be surprised if snow was much more of a hindrance to them than it is to us. Halfings, on the other hand, would probably need to be transported with gear and supplies."
"Regarding interviewing, I don't particularly feel it would be useful the interview the petitioners we all agree on. However many you two think we should speak with though, I will not object should the number be no higher than ten. I do not want us to be tied up in committee for a fortnight settling this company. Fair warning: I do plan on asking the Uncaring One to allow me to peer into the souls of any we do interview tomorrow. As a courtesy, I will not examine you, the co-chairs of this expedition, the same way...unless you do something quite alarming in the future."
"On the subject of magic, what do you two think of me turning one member of our company invisible per day? The effect lasts until the recipient acts aggressively towards another creature. I quite like the idea of our company appearing to be smaller than it actually is, unless that eventually attracts more trouble than it's worth."
"In the same vein, which of you two would benefit more from having your strength magically enhanced for several hours per day? I know this spell that I think you might quite enjoy...if I don't save it for myself. Makes it easier to swing this sword around, you see."
"Will unexpected crevices be a likely danger? If so, I can prepare a spell to help save a falling character. However, I do not have the ability to prepare a lot of arcane spells, so each choice must be made carefully."
"Oh, I can also levitate someone. Could be very handy for scouting the terrain ahead, especially an invisible someone."
"Regarding my divine magic, I plan on creating sixteen gallons of water per day (and asking our other divine spellcasting companions to do the same). The rest of my prayers will likely be devoted towards healing spells, just in case (although I do plan to continue to protect myself from the cold for the better part of each day. I will have my cold weather gear with me, I just prefer not to have to wear it!)."
"While I am feeling talkative, how do you two gents prefer to fight? I am very, very proficient with the hand-a-half sword, especially if I have enhanced my strength, and passable with a longbow."
Once the ensuing discussion of the above points has completed, Ohrin will then say, "Now, there was apparently some question as to whether or not the doll is magical. I might as well find out...stay behind me if you do not wish me to know which items you carry are magical."
Ohrin then pulls out his holy symbol and begins to pray to the Uncaring One, "Oh Lord of the Archmages, reveal to your humble servant's eyes the light only you can see, reveal that which is not mundane but is rather magical..." blah blah blah, this continues for a full minute. Upon the casting's completion, Ohrin gazes at the doll for a minute. Then, for good measure, he turns 60* for a minute and examines his surroundings, then repeats this five more times. If his compatriots do not move, he examines them. If they stand behind him as he rotates, he does not appear to examine them.
Both Njord and Sævil watched as gentle violet and gold lights began to trail after the movements of Ohrin's hands, twinkling starmotes like crushed gemstones dripping from his fingers, disappearing before they hit the ground.
Astafrejlva looked up at Sævil as if to assess his opinion of the strange ritual taking place before them. Even as the unblinking eye of Boccob began to manifest itself in the center of his gesticulations, because the northman did not move, neither did the wolf. It continued to watch the sparkling lights with interest -- as they all did.
Njord and Sævil watched Ohrin raise the eye -- seeming composed of glowing curves and lines, cut into the flesh of the air; the vibrant, glowing composition left by the spell was its very blood made visible -- before his face. He closed one eye and leaned close to the magical construction.
Through his open eye, he regarded the doll anew....
[* Wow, lots to reply to, gonna summarize to get thru it. Replying in roughly temporal order (as best as i can guess). All of this is, of course, from Njord's perspective. *]
Astafrejlva
Njord would try to pet the wolf if it/Sævil allows. He has an affinity for animals, probably more-so than he does for people.
Kahss:
Njord would ask Sævil if he knows what has happened to our (ex-)fourth, given that Kahss just up and left the place.
Olivia Owlbear (and the Ruddyfoot kids)
Njord fills Sævil in on the visit by the Ruddyfoot kids, their gifts of nourishment, and Matildya's offering of Olivia (the owlbear doll). Njord will display her with pride for Sævil.
Ohrin speaks of magic:
Njord is noticeably a bit concerned or uncertain about all of this. He has trepidations. As far as all the tactical uses for spells, he doesn't have all that much experience with that. He offers the following communication to Ohrin:
"Good Ohrin, i know your magicks will be of great use, but I may or may not be willing to have such cast upon me. It will depend on situation. But one thing," and he intones this nearer to an imperative than to a request, "please do not put spell on me unless i give ok." Noticeably tensed, he relaxes. "As for using abilities to look into hearts or minds of candidates, i do not have problem with such. But interesting, what if you ask each before doing so? Might give other insight?"
The Doll (Ohrin):
If Ohrin openly examines Olivia, Njord will pay attention.
Fighting (Ohrin's Q):
"I have skill with bow, swords, hand-and-half, other blades. Willing to fight with bare hands, if comes to such."
POST DISCUSSION/FIRST-TALLY
Group Size: BIG QUESTION
Njord wonders if it might even be better to take most of the candidates (like 30+, instead of 20). As, i think it was Sævil, mentioned supplies and such from the Tusking Land -- maybe it would be best to bring alot of extra people in case we need to set up multiple camps, and leave people as relay and/or rally points. We might even just take all those candidates we have any positive (+1) vibe toward whatsoever. We can always (and this may seem harsh, but ya know what desperate times call for) send people back if they aren't working out. Is there reason(s) we couldn't take that many?
Individual Size (Short):
Njord doesn't know how to resolve this. He's on the fence. If he had to choose he'd say we'll just deal with it if we have to, and be prepared with some sort of sled/toboggan system just in case. Which might also be needed for wounded people anyway. ? Maybe we could just do a three-count vote (yea/nay) to even worry about it. Njord would go with NAY.
Interviews:
Njord agrees (with Ohrin) that we should try to minimize the interviews if possible, but it might be a good idea to at least do a few to get a feel for some of the members. We can even ask what each of those thinks of the other candidates so we start to get a feel for potential friendships/friction.
Altansarnai:
We should meet her, especially to get a feel for how she will get along with Njord (and vice versa).
Crow Jane:
At some point after initial discussions revealed the group's general first-consensus (tally), and seeing that Crow Jane seems to be a fairly definite choice, Njord would offer to:
a) Go get her and bring her back for an interview.
b) Go and simply tell her that she has been accepted.
He could do the same for Milleen (a or b). He doesn't want to keep Crow Jane waiting. As it's probably 8pm or so by the time the first round of talks end. ???
Milleen:
See above (Same situation as Crow Jane).
Others To Interview
Here's a list of some others that have been mentioned for interview (by Njord or Sævil). We need to now simply make a list of people we definitely want to interview. Here's a start (N means Njord desires, S for Saevil, N/S both). With some notes.
Code:
+5 A'sila T'shanna: (N): She is loner? Work well in group?
+4 Altarnarsai: (N) -- Make sure they will get along.
+4 Crow Jane: (S)
+3 Slava: (N/S)
------------------------------------------------------
+2 Jonas Cerny: (S) Military Mountaineer.
+2 Merrick Flowerfield: (N/S) Chef, Is he Stout enough for journey?
+2 Faeranna Nightsky: (N/S)
+2 Idriel von Fluss-Amberhill: (N/S): Cap'n F certified.
+2 Lertan Stonemilker: (N/S) Chef.
+2 Markus Restantin: (N/S)
+2 Gerrit Lashander: (N/S)
-------------------------------------
?? Marissa Osson: (N) Cap'n F recommended. She may be quite tough?
-1 The Dark One: (N/S) (Same reason, curiosity), Also CapN F okayed.
[* Haven't yet figured how to whittle this down. Will think more soon. Things are moving, gents! *]
Njord offers this possible order for interviewees (possibly after going to get/inform Crow Jane / Milleen -- as that should be done pronto). This list may be moot if we decide to go with alot of volunteers (30+, see BIG Q in prev. post), as that may simply mean automatically taking all the +2 candidates, so interviews might even become less relevant. ? The order is mainly based on the fact that both Njord and Saevil indicated the individual for interview (except for Altarnarsai). Those below the cut (-------) are those that Njord thinks we could probably neglect to interview. (Doesn't mean they aren't coming -- see Jonas Cerny.) Above the cut makes the 10 max that Ohrin suggested (it's 9, methinks).
Code:
+4 Altarnarsai: (N) -- Make sure they will get along.
+3 Slava: (N/S) -- Make sure the half-orc is indeed friendly enough.
+2 Merrick Flowerfield: (N/S) Chef, Is he Stout enough for journey?
+2 Faeranna Nightsky: (N/S) Curiosity.
+2 Idriel von Fluss-Amberhill: (N/S): Cap'n F certified.
+2 Lertan Stonemilker: (N/S) Chef.
+2 Markus Restantin: (N/S)
+2 Gerrit Lashander: (N/S)
+5 A'sila T'shanna: (N): She is loner? Work well in group?
--------------------------------------
?? Marissa Osson: (N) Cap'n F recommended. She may be quite tough?
-1 The Dark One: (N/S) Njord thinks he likely won't be chosen.
+2 Jonas Cerny: (S) Mountaineer. Njord thinks he's probably a lock.
+4 Crow Jane: (S) (Nj and Oh have already met her)
For a 10th interview, Njord would suggest Marissa Osson. He is pleased that the evening has been so productive.
Ohrin speaks of magic:
Njord is noticeably a bit concerned or uncertain about all of this. He has trepidations. As far as all the tactical uses for spells, he doesn't have all that much experience with that. He offers the following communication to Ohrin:
"Good Ohrin, i know your magicks will be of great use, but I may or may not be willing to have such cast upon me. It will depend on situation. But one thing," and he intones this nearer to an imperative than to a request, "please do not put spell on me unless i give ok."
Ohrin listens politely and nods. "It is your right, of course, to make such a request, and I shall honor it. Does this also include the use of magicks upon your person if you have been rendered unconscious, paralyzed, catatonic, non-responsive, or any and all other similar conditions, up to, and including, death? Also, how do you feel about the use of healing magic? It would not be very efficient if I had to ask for your permission to heal you while we are fighting against some foe for our lives."
Syzygyst wrote:
Noticeably tensed, he relaxes. "As for using abilities to look into hearts or minds of candidates, i do not have problem with such. But interesting, what if you ask each before doing so? Might give other insight?"
Ohrin thinks carefully for a second before replying. "I do not feel it prudent to give any petitioner such warning. They are volunteering for a mission led by us; I believe we have the right to use any non-harmful methods at our disposal for determining the final make up of our team. Also, should any of them refuse, what then? Would that be enough grounds to not invite them to join us? What if they all refuse? As a divine servant of the Lord Archmage, it is my right to use the magic gifts he bestows upon me as I see fit. No warning shall be provided and I ask that you refrain from giving them one. The goal here is simply to determine if any of them are black-hearted and to remove them from consideration, nothing more."
Syzygyst wrote:
Fighting (Ohrin's Q):
"I have skill with bow, swords, hand-and-half, other blades. Willing to fight with bare hands, if comes to such."
Ohrin nods his appreciation of the reply.
(OOC: I believe the below points should all be posted in the OOC thread, so I am moving them there as Ohrin does not know Njord's thoughts unless Njord shares them in-character.)
Kraftwerk wrote:
Through his open eye, he regarded the doll anew....
Ohrin completed his scan of the doll and the room (and I assume both Njord and Saevil, along with the wolf, remained behind him to avoid being scanned). "Well, that's...interesting." Ohrin looks at Njord. "Either a druid, or perhaps a priest of a nature god, has enchanted this doll with some sort of nature magic. Never seen anything like it and, before you ask, no, I have no idea what the enchantment does or is doing. How did you get the doll, again? I confess I wasn't paying attention earlier."
Ohrin listens politely and nods. "It is your right, of course, to make such a request, and I shall honor it. Does this also include the use of magicks upon your person if you have been rendered unconscious, paralyzed, catatonic, non-responsive, or any and all other similar conditions, up to, and including, death? Also, how do you feel about the use of healing magic? It would not be very efficient if I had to ask for your permission to heal you while we are fighting against some foe for our lives."
Njord seems to lose himself in some thinking. He lifts up his hands and coated arms slightly in front of himself, almost in examination, then replies, "These healings...will probably work. I give permission to use them. But, we will have more time to speak of such things on journey."
Quote:
Ohrin thinks carefully for a second before replying. "I do not feel it prudent to give any petitioner such warning. They are volunteering for a mission led by us; I believe we have the right to use any non-harmful methods at our disposal for determining the final make up of our team. Also, should any of them refuse, what then? Would that be enough grounds to not invite them to join us? What if they all refuse? As a divine servant of the Lord Archmage, it is my right to use the magic gifts he bestows upon me as I see fit. No warning shall be provided and I ask that you refrain from giving them one. The goal here is simply to determine if any of them are black-hearted and to remove them from consideration, nothing more."
"Very well." Njord responded. "I will say nothing. Will be curious what is revealed. I have been told of difference between magic of knowing and magic of...controlling." With that Njord seems to get lost in thought, in his memories, perhaps.
Quote:
Ohrin completed his scan of the doll and the room (and I assume both Njord and Saevil, along with the wolf, remained behind him to avoid being scanned). "Well, that's...interesting." Ohrin looks at Njord. "Either a druid, or perhaps a priest of a nature god, has enchanted this doll with some sort of nature magic. Never seen anything like it and, before you ask, no, I have no idea what the enchantment does or is doing. How did you get the doll, again? I confess I wasn't paying attention earlier."
Njord is rather amazed at Ohrin's assessment, and is surprised he hadn't heard him speak to Crow Jane. "I was given Olivia by lovely Matildya, one of the Ruddyfoot children. Those same who brought us food and drink." Then, after a brief ponder, he asks, "Do you know if The Dark One is a druid, or priest of nature?"
[* Njord should receive Ohrin's reply to Njord's Q about the Dark One and druidism, as that was probably from an earlier exchange, anyway. After that... *]
Njord prepares to leave, heading toward Milleen's to inform both her and Crow Jane that they have been accepted into the group.
Njord seems to lose himself in some thinking. He lifts up his hands and coated arms slightly in front of himself, almost in examination, then replies, "These healings...will probably work. I give permission to use them. But, we will have more time to speak of such things on journey."
"Understood."
Syzygyst wrote:
"I was given Olivia by lovely Matildya, one of the Ruddyfoot children. Those same who brought us food and drink." Then, after a brief ponder, he asks, "Do you know if The Dark One is a druid, or priest of nature?"
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