“There is only one kind of shock worse than the totally unexpected,
the expected for which one has refused to prepare.”
What better comforting moments is there at a bar, when a patron arrives to order a drink but is also offered a succulent meal like that of a pineapple roasted boar? I tell you, none. A renown cook from the Lucky Coin, graced the Undercellar with her chosen meal for the night. Affordable, delicious and savory, such a thing is blissful. Patrons ate with smiles, and cheers while drinking and sharing laughter and talks. But like all good and comfortable things, they soon come to an end. The marching of metal and chain links drowned out the carousing. Flaming Fist Soldiers marched with purpose , a purpose to ask questions.
"Sel?"
"that's me."
"Aye that be me how can I help ya?"
"You the barman here?"
"Aye, but I dont think yer came to drink while on duty..."
"After a murderer."
"Sorry about saying I was Sel... bit drunk."
"Murder? In our fair city? Say it ain't so!"
"Good honest worker had his house broken into, was found dead - looks like he disturbed the thief'"
"Nope, aint heard nuthing..been working most the day and night here.."
"..stole a pearl family thing might turn up in a place like this, but be five bags in it if we get our thief."
"Well ..the only pearl in here be the ones the ladies might have..Earings and all..what this murderer look like?"
"Aint got no pearls..only drinks ..more drinks ..and Pineapple Roasted Boar ..Well other than the item itself...no clue as to what the culprit look like or dressed like?"
"We do not have any descriptions...yet"
"Oh I be sure to report anythin Sir, if I find out or see this ..family item yer speak of."
"Been too much crime lately..It will end"
People say, its a sad thing to be one who eats a meal alone. Some would even say, the food tastes better when you eat with company. However why does it seem like, tonight would have been a good night to eat alone. I cant help but to admit, that roast was one of the best meals I've had in quite some time.
The bartenders mind wondered, about the previous night when he was out walking with a person. He had seen a house that seem suspicious . Had it not been for his wits and decided to tell the person next to him, that they should leave the area, it could have been them the Flaming Fist were looking for. Whom ever stole from that house, whether or not he or she or them, kilt the owner of the home. They surely are wanted for murder. Only time will tell, if theres a public hanging or not. For now, I got a bar to run, and tankards needs to be filled.
“We drink to get drunk, we get drunk to fall asleep, when we fall asleep, we commit no sin, when we commit no sin, we go to the Heaven's."
“The problem with the world,
is that everyone is a few drinks behind.”
Most bartenders dislike a slow night. Few patrons to buy drinks, means less coin to make. But sometimes..those are the nights where someone comes in and tells something interesting or even intriguing. Often the case we would call, the unlikely visitors.
"Lights have spread to the Glimmerwood now and Master Dimburrow is looking to organize a group of people to headin there and rout the wicked fey slaughtering unicorns."
"Fey slaughtering unicorns?"
"Found a possessed woman crying outside the friendly arm inn on the border of that same wood."
"Hmm bet the Guardian of the Forest nae too happy about that"
"I'm not entirely sure but we tired to coax her away from the wood and the damnedest thing happened. Each step she took her face lost color until she was almost sheet white."
"Oh yer dont say?"
"She'd have made an Illuskan man's arse look suntanned she was so pale."
But whom I a really fooling ? From my experience, a slow night never really lasts long. What I had thought a slow night, soon became busy with more patrons. And talks of rumors in the Clookwoods and the Glimmerwoods continued.
"Well well was just aint this sumthin? Say his name ,and be bloody pops in less than a candlelight"
I was mentioned, I take it?
"Aye, about them bloody creepy woods again. Just heard from a halfing about a possessed woman and yellow lights and fey stuff making folks feel all dispear and saddness and woteva. Yer need to stop fornicatin in them woods, all kinda funny stuff about."
It is not a habit of mine to fornicate anywhere. But yes, we now know the location of the laughing tree. And soon, hopefully, a stop will be put to all of this.
"Oh and something about ..Fey slaughting Unicorns ?"
It has happened. Ashling and I buried it.
"Bugger, bet she aint too happy about that."
Not at all. Took her several days to get over that. Unicorns are sacred to we Mielikkians. It's a being known as the Laughing Tree. It has possession of the lantern, and is using it to grow its power to try and take a foothold in the Cloakwoods, and spreading to the Glimmerwoods.
A night in a tavern is always interesting. Specially when your patrons keep drinkin.
I feel sorry for people who don’t drink. When they wake up in the morning,
that’s as good as they’re going to feel all day…”
“We drink to get drunk, we get drunk to fall asleep, when we fall asleep, we commit no sin, when we commit no sin, we go to the Heaven's."
“There is no greater agony,
than bearing an untold story inside you.”
Everyone tells a story about themselves inside their own head. Always. All the time. That story makes you what you are. We build ourselves out of that story. Stories you read when you're the right age never quite leave you. You may forget who wrote them or what the story was called. Sometimes you'll forget precisely what happened, but if a story touches you it will stay with you, haunting the places in your mind that you rarely ever visit.
"Are you new to the Gate miss? Or grown up here local?"
".. New. I'm. .. From further up the Way."
"Well atleast yer aint arrive when the sky was the color of blood and metors falling from the heavens. Whole place was chaotic, magic went stupid, and all kinda other crazy stuff happened. "
"Say, you seem an in the know sort of fellow..."
"...Them two got a how ya say..fickle relationship..."
"You ran a pirate bar but are afraid of alley cutthroats? I suspect there's more to you than first meets the eye master bartender."
"Someplace I should avoid, then?"
"Aye fer now. Or at least make sure no one sees yer pointy ears. The crews see ya and they see coins. Will try to enslave ya and sale you to Calmishite slavers. Last elf came to drop me some scrolls had bottles thrown at her..."
"That's trouble I don't need.. "
"Tis nice meeting new folks , gives hope to the City somewot. "
"Always a pleasure to meet more goodly folk."
Someone needs to tell those tales. When the battles are fought and won and lost, when the pirates find their treasures and the dragons eat their foes for breakfast. Someone needs to tell their bits of overlapping narrative. There's magic in that. It's in the listener, and for each and every ear it will be different, and it will affect them in ways they can never predict. From the mundane to the profound. You may tell a tale that takes up residence in someone's soul, becomes their blood and self and purpose. That tale will move them and drive them and who knows what they might do because of it, because of your words. That is your role, your gift.
If a patron was to ask the bartender in the Undercellar of what he thought about stories he would tell you...
“We're all stories, in the end.”
“We drink to get drunk, we get drunk to fall asleep, when we fall asleep, we commit no sin, when we commit no sin, we go to the Heaven's."
“Let me sing, if I cant be allowed to fly,
If I cant be allowed to sing, than I'd rather die.”
"You're feeling the rush of anguish settling,
you cannot help showing them in Hurry up then,
or you'll fall behind and they will take control of you,
And you need to heal the hurt behind your eyes,
fickle words crowding your mind It's a hand in your hand, a shadow over yours,
a beggar for soul in your face Still it don't matter if you won't listen,
if you won't let them follow you You just need to heal,
make good all your lies, move on and don't look behind.."
When I look upon the many emotions written on faces as they became lost in a song, I wonder, what are thinking about? I can guess at their feelings, and physical gestures, but a guess is all it is. Like any good story or an intriguing rumor, songs tend to be felt rather then simply heard. If you have no interested in what you hear, you wave it off dismissively. But that is not always the case. Sometimes a person hears a song, and they suddenly seem petrified, locked into some emotion or another. A glimpse of memories, a reminder of feelings. Some people say, they never seen a grown person cry until they seen a grown person die. I'd tell them, even a good song and bring a person to teary eyes.
The Fest Hall within the Undercellar was busy this very night. A meeting between a bartender and his minstrel lead to idle talks. Sharing words, tales, and even songs. It wasnt long before the minstrel was asked to perform for the other normal frequenting patrons. With the Undercellar beaming with music and lyrics, the extended soothing sounds had soon reached to ears as far as the Wide. Not even a candle mark later, the Fest Hall was spilling life. New faces met, new minstrels paid. The bartender did what he normally does.
"Shrug off the pains of frustration , and enjoy what yer heart truly desires.
Life, was much like a song. In the beginning there is mystery, in the end there is confirmation,
but it's in the middle where all the emotion resides to make the whole thing worthwhile."
"Sleep, sugar, let your dreams flood in,
Like waves of sweet fire, you're safe within,
Sleep, sweetie, let your floods come rushing in,
And carry you over to a new morning..
Day after day...
Fickle visions...
Messing with your head...
Fickle, vicious...
Sleeping in your bed...
Fickle, vicious...
Fickle, vicious.."
You enjoy this song, it touches ...interesting
“We drink to get drunk, we get drunk to fall asleep, when we fall asleep, we commit no sin, when we commit no sin, we go to the Heaven's."
"Unlike a lot of people,
I'm not afraid of the unknown.
It intrigues me."
Some use "ambiguity" as their native language and prefer to hide behind a veil of para-social intrigue or deceit. They readily apply a strategy of a condescendingly friendly approach. Still, as we can capture arresting signals that urge us to defuse a dire threat of besiegement, we can decipher any shrouded or manipulative intentions and steer clear of unforeseen pitfalls.
"Eight hundred gold."
"Eight hundred!?"
"It's a fair price."
"Another murder by some......Strangled....."
"This related to the one in the Elfsong?
"Word has it it, was the work of.....and been going on for months. That was the forth."
"Interesting.."
"In other news...."
A messenger has a legendary aura. A knock at the door may inflame a sense of expectation, suspense, secrecy, hazard or even intrigue. Knock twice may imply a warning that trouble is on the way or an appeal to make the coast clear. Not all messengers, though, will knock twice and await an eye-catching situation. But nevertheless, when you receive vital information, you have three options. Pursue it, safekeep it, or act as if you've never heard of it. Many people in the world believe they can keep secrets. Yet what they don't realize is that, If you want to keep a secret, you must also hide it from yourself.
"....The merchant was some half-elven woman. I'm looking for her."
"....In case I need to find yer again."
"I'm a hired protection of a merchant that likes to come down here. Making sure nobody steals from him."
"And if you want anything else, remember the price, may go up."
"....of course I'd bring more coins."
"Does this sort of thing happen here often?"
"Tis Baldurs Gate love. Some would call it ...common."
"I should really shape up. I got too relaxed because I thought nothing would happen out here. Lesson learned."
"Oi you work fer me..remember? I got ya. Gonna reduce it from yer pay or Im collecting clothes!" *He barked a laugh*
"Get some rest, Sel."
*Rest? When do I ever get rest? Perhaps maybe when I end up in a box.*
“We drink to get drunk, we get drunk to fall asleep, when we fall asleep, we commit no sin, when we commit no sin, we go to the Heaven's."
“I’d heard you were dead.”
"I heard you wear a red lace corset,”
“But I don’t believe every bit of nonsense that gets rumored about.”
When you hear a story of a woman plunging to her death from the roof of the Friendly Arms Inn, what are your thoughts? Is it like mine where I wonder the who, and the why?. Did the woman go to the roof alone only to be met by the culprit? Or did they go up together and some confrontation escalated? Why did the culprit push her to her death? What was to be gained? Or what was to be hidden? Rumors and tales...
((DM Whisp))
In the darkest parts of the city within Baldur's Gate, a ship foreman named Frand Fellman was found dead in his home. An item stolen. Does your mind work like mine? Was it a contracted hit? Or was it a mere burglary gone wrong? Did the home owner come home early that night, only to realize it was his last night? What was the item? A pearl, an amulet, a gem? Or what is some special magical artifact? The only that truly knows that answer is the culprit. Was this case related to the others? Rumors and tales...
((DM Spartacus))
The Elfsong heard a different tune on the 27th day of Ches. Word on the streets of Baldurs' spoke of a woman strangled to death in the Elfsong. The culprit was said to have been merely a simple common man. Or was it? Whispers spoke of how the man was possessed and magically dominated. It was said the possessed man died after the assassination crumbling into a pile of ash. Darker whispers say, the ones responsible were Sharrans. Why were they targeting Selunites? Was it true that this has been ongoing for months? Was the woman that plunged to her death from the roof of the Friendly Arms Inn related? Was the murder in the Heapside related? Or was this a separate case? Rumors and tales...
((DM Soulcatcher))
Deep within the eerie Cloakwoods, an army rises of flesh and vines. Word from the Archdruid himself spoke of a troublesome fey called the Laughing Tree. The killing of unicorns will never be accepted by the Green Enclave, nor will it allow the dark forces that trouble the woods to go unchecked. What stirs the evil in the Cloakwoods? Surely the patrols from the Enclave must be hard pressed if not taxing. Will they seek allegiance? Will they search out for more helping hands from adventurers? Will the forest elves in the Glimmering woods aid against the threat? Rumors and tales...
((DM Ink))
If a patron asked the bartender what he thought of all these rumors, he would tell them...
“Never settle for half the story, and make up and imagine the rest. Get the full Story! Or yer ain't gettin no free rum!”
“We drink to get drunk, we get drunk to fall asleep, when we fall asleep, we commit no sin, when we commit no sin, we go to the Heaven's."
“People will rather pass by the weak, the lame, the beggars, the orphans, the tormented, the widows,
and take their large offerings to church, to the men and women of Gods who already has a palace and wealth beyond
their comprehension. What a shallow mindedness.”
There's a story about two men and a beggar, as they were walking, a beggar came up, holding his hand out and crying, "Spare a coin friend?"
The first man kept on going but the second man stopped to digging into his pocket, and pulled out a few coins and placed it in the beggar's dirty hand.
The first man said, "I used to give to beggars when I first came here. But then I realized, it's hopeless. It never stops." "You should always give to those that ask," the second man said. "Yeah, well," the first man said, "Obviously the nobles nor Gods cared enough to take them out of poverty.”
More often than naught, nobles and would be Kings and Queens sit upon thrones made of gold, indulging in their wealth given by the common people who strive just to survive. One would think that as much as they feed off the lesser, once in awhile, they could at least spare the excess coins to feed the hungry. I know what its like, to be home less, hungry, always wondering if you will eat something within the day. When a person is starving, primal instincts soon takes over. And the person will end up doing anything or everything just to even get a meal. Even if that meal were merely scraps tossed by the Kings and Queens.
And many ol times, I've seen people simply ignore me, or another, sometimes jest in mockery. The worse feeling is when your starving, and your begging for a single coin, yet people walk by you as if you don't even exist. Some would think death would be far less miserable. When I see such now, it upsets me. No longer do I feel hunger. But still, I remember what it was like. Begging in the streets of Neverwinter, begging in the streets of Baldurs, and people just kept walking by with scowls, glares, stares. But the worse was pretending I wasn't even there. I wonder what a King would do, if he looked upon poverty with a considerate mind. What if it was mere children that he passed by. Did he look at them? Did he make a promise to himself to feed them? To clothe them, to put a roof over their heads? Or did he merely continued walking past pretending he never saw the innocent faces?
“Those dear to me took fright for my safety and, perhaps, my sanity. Kings, they explained, do not walk like beggars for hundreds of miles. My response was that if a beggar could managed the feat, then why not a king? If wishes were horses, I would say to you. beggars would ride. No matter whom I am or what I became, or where I came from. I look upon a beggar and see my youth.
“Therefore, I will always feed them.”
“And the woman along side me, choose to offer healing and medicine.”
Yet what is everybody else doing?
“We drink to get drunk, we get drunk to fall asleep, when we fall asleep, we commit no sin, when we commit no sin, we go to the Heaven's."
“Maybe, if you can't get someone out of your head they were never meant to leave.
Perhaps, they were meant to help change you into the person you have been waiting to become.”
Late in the evening after a particular man had recently woken up, he decided to check on things at the bar. However along his way after stepping off the ship and planting his boot upon the docks of the harbor, he ran into a blonde haired woman standing in the rain with her cat. After an inquiry and a brief conversation, the three soon became four in company and shared a room with drinks and talks. And not before long, they were else where gambling.
Many people in the world do what they like or need to do, in order to make coins to feed their bellies. Some seek treasures in hidden dungeons, others set sail seeking plunder. Some are slippery talkers and others have the skills to be a good merchant. Some steal, some extort, and theres even some that gamble.
Gamblers are people that thrive on risk taking. The chance to bust, or the profitable win. The game of chance often fruits curiosity as well as greed. A fun game with good intentions. But sometimes such a game has driven men to debts and violence, and families to poverty. The game of chance can become addicting, it is said its best to praise the Lady Luck before you gamble. But then again..win or lose she would still smile upon your profits or demise.
“It's hard to walk away from a winning streak,
even harder to leave the table when you're on a losing one.
Better to seek out the Tymorian Gambit if yer want to change yer luck some.”
“We drink to get drunk, we get drunk to fall asleep, when we fall asleep, we commit no sin, when we commit no sin, we go to the Heaven's."
"It's only gossip if you repeat it.
Until then, it's gathering information."
Information, the only stuff worth more than gold. People feast upon it, strive for it. Others could care a kobolds arse for it. But how does people gain such a thing like information? Do they eavesdrop for it? Exchange services for it? Pay for it? If they eavesdrop, how do they determine what's important or not? If they exchange services , how do they determine what's services is equal in worth? If they pay for it, how does one measure the cost?
I believe everyone has their own ways. Even I. One of the perc's of being a bartender is often, travelers come with tales and rumors to conversate about. A drunk tongue often makes a person spill more words than they intended. Sometimes a local bartender is just the person one may need to go to , in gain a bit of information. After all, their all about the business in enticing customers to their establishments. A good drink, entertainment, music, gambling tables, and of course..a good rumor. Other times, simply walking in the right place, during the right time, can get you an unlikely encounter filled with information.
"Selune isn't a popular faith here, no one else is attacked or killed but those Selunites. Chances are the ...........are trying to establish a cult here. But hard to find anything about them, you know how they are."
"Aye, very secretive and elusive. Anything else happening in the City worthy of note?"
"We are looking towards a good year, Baldur's Gate is pretty secure in all accounts. There was that other group trying to get a foothold in the city but that seemed to fizzle out."
"Dont ferget to pay for a woman and a room, gotta keep patrons happy."
"Heh, maybe after work. I do have one I fancy...."
"Her father is a righteous bastard but I respect the man, dont think Im good enough for her"
I've always found it interesting in the type of troubles that are in the minds of men and women. Sometimes their the smallest of troubles or the most dire of troubles. But to each and everyone of them regardless...its of importance to them.
*A pat on the shoulder and reassuring words were left in the dark tunnels of the Undercellar this night*
"Will see what can be done"
“We drink to get drunk, we get drunk to fall asleep, when we fall asleep, we commit no sin, when we commit no sin, we go to the Heaven's."
“The possession of knowledge does not kill the sense of wonder and mystery.
There is always more mystery.”
The most beautiful experience we can have is the mysterious. It is the fundamental emotion that stands at the cradle of true art and knowledge. The important thing is not to stop questioning. Curiosity has its own reason for existence. One cannot help but be in awe when he contemplates the mysteries of eternity, of life, of the marvelous structure of reality. It is enough if one tries merely to comprehend a little of this mystery each day.
"Just lost in thought tis all. How yer doin?"
"Nae bad, you manage ta track down anytin'?"
"Word was things gone quiet. Its like those attacks on yer folks just stopped suddenly."
"Aye, fer da moment, but we gained a new lead when I communed with da Lady o' Silver"
"Oh? What this Lady o' Silver had to say of it?"
Mystery. It plagues us by keeping us up at night, it causes us to pick at our food, become lost in thought so much that we forget to pay attention to what's right before our very eyes. When I had turned around to see the fair woman known as the Moon Knight, I suddenly just then, and only then, had remembered a woman who had worried for her lost peoples. Aye, it was a series of assassinations of the followers of her church, this Lady o' Silver. I felt ashamed having nearly forgotten it all. So much was going on in my own life back in the Shore with pirate crews racing to place their Captains on the high seats , or looking over my shoulder for a particular crew that wished me harm. The woman must had thought me embracing or shameful with my expression of forgetting. I had forgotten, and that was the truth. I had been focus on my own life that I forgot about the lives already lost. But those lost life wasn't even my business. Hmph, and more shameful of me, that the only thing I could offer the woman, was a drink.
But a drink she accepted. But even before I could even admit to the woman that I had forgotten, one patron had just exited the back private rooms grumbling and complaining about being itchy. Amusing...
*Itches and scratches at himself* "These beds got bugs !"
"Or maybe was that lass that had the bugs...." *Scratches and scratches* "It itches so !"
"....I wasnt sheep herdin no elves. I was just trying to buy scrolls. They seen the elf and threw bottles at her. And because I spoked up fer her, they aint like me too much..*He looks to the man* "Should've poured some ale on yerself first!" *He barks a laugh watching the scratching patron leave to the back exit*
((DM Summers))
Soon after more patrons had arrived. And one I remember that was a leaf water drinker. I'm one man that will measure a person by their drinks. And when a person drinks leaf water, I pity them and nae trust them.
"Welcome to the Undercellar, Mister Teris."
*Looks uncomfortable as he glances around*
"Mister Sel. Were you aware that there is an entire ambulatory bovine currently loitering bear the Enclave entrance to the tunnels?"
" A entire wot?"
"A cow, Mister Sel. I figure'd you might wish to know, in the event anyone comes asking for a lost head of cattle in the sewers."
*He sees Teris then suddenly lifts a shaking finger* "Oi I warnin ye right now, yer aint gon' find no bloody leaf water in here!"
*Fidgets with his scarf*
"He's blowing smoke. Let me know if you need anything brewed."
"...What if I .. um.. bring my own..leaf water...?"
"Then yer can drink it!"
"Oi! Sayushi! This your butter churner here?"
"It arrived, did it?"
"I sure aint need it, I do my own churnin " *He rapidly raises his brow twice along with a devious grin*
"Yes, well, I'm sure you know how it works. Pump the cream until it becomes difficult to handle."
*He side glances at Katli* "Was that a blimey come on?"
*Chuckles* "Nae"
Nothing whets the intelligence more than a passionate suspicion, nothing develops all the faculties of an immature mind more than a trail running away into the dark. I had always known the sky was full of mysteries but not until now had I realized how full of them our world was. If any patron came to me to ask what I had thought about mysteries, I would tell them..
“The sweetest smiles hold the darkest secrets...”
“We drink to get drunk, we get drunk to fall asleep, when we fall asleep, we commit no sin, when we commit no sin, we go to the Heaven's."
Surprised Visits Rynn / Ken-
As I walk through the lighted sections within the Undercellar to head to the festhall, my mind was filled with the previous night. Gods I hope I have a more relaxing day today. But just as I entered the drinking area of the festhall, I had notice the place had more than the usual amount of customers.
One of the new faces around that I've seen, a bodyguard to someone in the Shore. Yet...why was he lingering here came the first thought. Business more or less he said. A bartender measures a man by his drinks. A whiskey drinker he was, but a man that seems weary of drinks being served to him. A untrusting sort obviously which is a good trait to have. Helps a person live longer. Even I am a person who trusts everyone yet no one. A man with many names is surely a man hiding something.
"So what brings ye? Woman or a drink? Rooms cost ten gold. Pay to Mirinda here"
"Is me home. Near as one somethin' like me can claim anyway. Reckon is the quiet I like. The noise 'o some place like this has a tendency to drown out all the bullshite ya find."
"...Use to live here meself..but things change. Like the Shore better. Got tired of all the prissy folks thinkin it a must I learn about who they are, where they came from and their fokin upbringing. "
Sera-
Ah there she was, the thick horned bardess. An apprentice with a promising talent. I've known a few minstrels or even people that could play the lute. This one surely knows how to make her fingers fly with one without skipping a beat. Nae much the singer yet, but that can always be compensated. But as I watch the exchange between the two I see the bond, it was feint but it was there. Well given with whom they work for or server it would be expected. The mere thought tells me theres still hope within this part of the Coast. Where companions can still take shape.
"What yer want to wet that throat Sera?"
"Um, just an ale really, Have you seen Rose lately Sel?"
"Oi Aye..just before I got here nae long ago. She back at the Shore last I know."
"She sent me a...well, sending, hope she's okay, need to catch up with her..Ok, let's get this show going I guess"
"Now we talkin!"
Maevyn-
The reader, the bardess, the tired woman. And another patron that brings their own drink. I've met this woman a few times in the past. Might even had been a companion but the road she seemed to had take, wouldn't make that quite likely. I'm a man of independence, I care not for the greater good nor the greater evil. My faith is in myself. I don't trust in Gods. After all, I've seen Gods die. And this one, whom I've heard puts a lot of faith in her. Yet..I've seen her sat idle alone on a full moon night once down in Beregost. Seeming to simply need to breath. What I like about an Independent life, is that I can do what I want, went I want, how I want and not have to give a kobolds rotten arse of what others may think.
"So Mae..hows yer peoples.? The Selunites."
"Not all that great."
"Mhm I heard what happen. Spoke to that Katli lady"
"Something about the threat of being strangled when going about your day tends to stir up some. . . Emotions."
*He walked over to Mae then set a few bags on the counter* "Call it tips. "
"I'll do another than!"
"oi oi that for the night! Blimey woman trying to empty my coin purse in my face!"
"You're going broke tonight SEL! ...I see why Rose likes playin for you!."
Ria-
Now what in the blimey worlds was this before my eyes? I've seen a good fair share of tiefer's, and my own is about the most vibrant one. But this one..blue of flesh? Flashy, looks delicate, flarin and obvious. To the normal eye, one may not had noticed it, but the closeness between a man and woman is not too difficult to spot. Specially if knees are damn near rubbin' against each other. I know the feelin, standing next to yer woman, ain't want to cause an attraction within a crowd, but yer fighting the urge of desire that want's to make you grasp for your woman. That's the difference between me and these folks from the Gates however. If I got a urge to grab my woman, I'mma do it. I'm a man that sleeps comfortably a night, even when knowing there's men that I live with, that wants my neck.
*He gave a chin nod and a two finger salute to the incoming patron* "What yer drinkin lass?"
"Hello there! Do you have what was it....Raspberry Milkshakes?"
"Milk..shake..?"*He suddenly raises a pointing finger at Ria* "Oi..look here lass, I got but four things in here..Women, minstrels, card tables, and strong drinks..wot the fok is a milk shake?"
"I do not know! But I liked it."
"Only thing shaken in here is arse , bossoms and a good drink!"
"Do you have a selection I can view then?"
*He sets a bottle of Moon wine on the bar in front of Ria since he was being afraid anything else would have her dead drunk* "Dont ask me fer leaf water either."
I've always said, it's interesting to meet folks. The difference in cultures, and traditions, accents and habits. I do wonder of the new people that arrived in the City, get to experience it like I had. I still remember that very night like it was merely yesterday.
1345 DR Baldur's Gate
He woke up in the Elfsong tavern, a new arrival and in need of coins. Only a few patrons were near the bar and some in the booths eating a meal and sharing tales over drinks. The look of someone lost was the appearance he gave off. While debating to linger or step out to explore, a little halfing woman walked up to him with a widen grin.
"Hey fresh feet, need any directions?"
"More like just tell a man where he can make some coins?"
"Not lookin like that fella. Even the cats would make easy pickins off yer. Best you head down the street and visit old man Maltz for some equipment. From there he will offer you some work. Better find some friends. Traveling alone will make you see the Fugue quick like."
"You have my thanks"
"Don't die boy, oh and welcome to Baldur's Gate."
As he stepped outside the Elfsong, the night was dark with little street lights. The atmosphere was immersive. He glanced around for street signs and shop signs looking to find Maltz shop. He wasn't going to ask for directions, for the man wasn't keen in being in debt with anyone. A figure was approaching, a man clad in dark clothes, with a black hood and cloak. Darkness that travelled in darkness was the only thought that had came to mind. He waved to the dark figure, but the dark figure walked pass without even a glance. Interesting he thought. Within a candle mark, he experienced the two best sort of greeting he would ever expect. He looked at the large statue in front of him and admire its sculpture. Yes indeed, he landed in Baldur's. The bulletin board caught his eye. He slowly walked up to it, and read the many postings and flyers. It wasn't the contents he was looking for. He was gauging the personalities of the hand writers. Such an observation would tell him, just what kind of people he would soon be running into. After he took in enough of the board, he seen the sign that said Malt'z. Old and worn boots pressed onto the cobble stones in the direction of the store. Those steps lead him to a new life, a new beginning a new adventure.
“We drink to get drunk, we get drunk to fall asleep, when we fall asleep, we commit no sin, when we commit no sin, we go to the Heaven's."
From my short experience as a bartender I will admit, one of thee most favorite ways that I enjoy a good sharing of rumors..is with a drink in my hand, and sexy woman along side of me. Makes me feel like a bloody king. I mean lets be serious and not be prissy and carry the face of lying nobles.
Why should be live a life oppressing's our emotions and feelings? I find such a thing annoyances. By any gods, if I want a drink of my rum, your bloody well be sure I will drink me rum. And what makes it sweeter than the sound of telling rumors. Such a thing is always pleasure in my ears. Shadows deep with in the Reaching Woods, creatures that devour magic, a horse trader that was suppose to be employed by the Dukes that was killed and the only possible suspect is a woman in grey robes. Maltz offering of a bounty for the culprit who's stolen one of his goods, and the lists goes on and on.
And yet, we still have many other unsolved problems in this world. Selunites targeted, yet that has seem to have gone silent. Was it forgotten? Or did trails grow too cold? Trouble in the far reaches of Neshkel and the conflict with the Frost Maidens people, the unrest in the North with residence in Soubar unhappy with the Radiant Hearts. Corrupt lords slipping away for their political crimes and punishment, pirate crews showing their brutality only to rise to status. Drow women whos much filled with regret, she was becoming dangerously reckless. And speaking of drows, there has been many talks of them walking boldly upon the surface in the south, and for what purpose? Trade? Expanding of business? Or was it mere plots to cause ill to surfacers?
Only time will tell and for now, I'm going to enjoy my rum, and the lovely company that surrounds me.
“We drink to get drunk, we get drunk to fall asleep, when we fall asleep, we commit no sin, when we commit no sin, we go to the Heaven's."
"Aye, sometimes all it takes fer evil ta spread,
is fer people ta nae do anytin' bout it"
"...I find dat dey get lost in bein' a victim, 'n start seekin' vengence 'r strength ta nae be in dat position 'gain. "
"Over at the Goblet I meet all kinda of ..evils..Some I pity, some I understand why they are they way they are. Others...shouldnt be allowed to breath..but thats not for me to do. But ah, dont yer forget about some that go callin themselves good. I've seen good do plenty ol evil."
"Bout Selune's dogma though... if'n ye like ta 'ear it"
"Do tell."
"Let all on whom Selune's light fall be welcome if'n dey desire.
As the silver moon waxes 'n wanes, so too does life.
Trust in Selune's radiance, and know dat all love alive under 'er light shall know 'er blessin'
Turn ta da moon, and she will be yer true guide.
Promote acceptance 'n tolerance.
See all oder bein's as equals.
Aid fellow Selunites as if dey were yer dearest friends."
"I know of some might say love nae a blessin, bad experience them" *He chuckles*
"Aye, 'n den dey play da victim, 'n nae find a way ta forgive, start seekin' vengince, 'n start down a dark path lured by promise o' causin' pain dey feel on oders. Misery loves company if'n ye let it take 'old"
"Misery loves company..ah now I get it."
"Aye, ye e'er notice miserable people tend ta make dose around dem da same way?"
*He barks a laugh and slaps the bar then points at her with a mirth* "Aye! That be true, seen it ol' plenty I tell ya!"
"Aye, Misery spreads, simply bein' round dem, 'earin' dem complain endlessly, brings misery on oders, den dey speak ill, 'n it simply spreads."
I was never a religious one, I told the woman how I do enjoy reading, and history. But she seemed surprised I hardly knew of her religion. I told her I was not a religious sort. Truth be told, I am not a man that likes limitations. Faith? Well..I believe in myself and what I can accomplish versus relying on some dogma or what ever other case it may be. In my opinion, so long as I keep faith in myself, I'm the only one that can disappoint myself. If I had a sending spell that would reach the minds of everyone in the world breathing , I would tell them..
"Believe in your infinite potential. Your only limitations are those you set upon yourself."
----------------------
"Well, well, well, well"
"Oh blimey.." *He glances at the patron he was just speaking with* " Misery just walked in me front door...."
"And wot do I owe for your visit? Trouble.."
"..how perceptive!"
"Best mind yer manners, or I have my guard throw yer slender arse out onto the cobbles"
"...'n'yways, should see ta some rest meself, Moonlight guard ye paths."
"..she has abandoned you."
"Naw we were just finish fokin , aint none yer business anyways."
".. is that how you treat paying customers? oh wait it is! you tell them to get out then ignore them when they need help"
"You even know what this place is?'
"A place where degenerates go"
"Happy degenerates..Ten gold for a key pay to Mirinda here"
"I am not looking for disease, and do you have any idea what giving me alcohol can do? I weigh under one hundred pounds, I'd lose control"
"Good, just make sure yer do it on a mans lap and business be good" *smirks*
"What would i do on a mans lap?"
"Gods.." *He shakes his head slowly* "Nuthin...just nuthin..drink yer juice.."
The term going from one extremity to another couldn't be more defined in that moment. If the Dark Maiden of Misery can bring forth this kinda of misery that just walked in my bar, I'd think I'd repent a thousand times for what ever sin I may had cause that warrants such a punishment..
“We drink to get drunk, we get drunk to fall asleep, when we fall asleep, we commit no sin, when we commit no sin, we go to the Heaven's."
The Undercellar was a clump of chambers in a network of storage cellars beneath the city of Baldur's Gate that housed a sleazy tavern and festhall. There were at least twenty-four ways in and out of this popular establishment, half of which connected to other buildings, one of which was through the Blushing Mermaid tavern.
The rainy weather around the coast can be cursed at. But to a bartender, its a blessin. After all, its lures them indoors and most times to a tavern.
Sometimes a person needs to be away from work, a break, a respite, a chance to re invigorate ones self so that they can continue on with renewed motivation and energy. The results can often times be promising.
Such is the case like early in the morning before the sun had its chance to rise, the festhall was filled with patrons of old and far. Tankards of ale and cups of wine passed around, lips wet from the bitter flavors, throats quench from the delectable throat soothers. Conversation swirls back and forth, jokes and laughter aplenty.
But this bartender was short on satisfaction. He hasnt heard of anything interesting rumors , or a good tale. Has the coast gone dormant? Did everyone suddenly become too dull to insight anything of interest? Or is this one of them moments of quietness and calmness before a raging storm? Time will only tell. For now, tis best to keep the drinks going and enjoy the pleasing sight of finely dressed lasses.
When not a single rumor enters a tavern, a bartender might say...
"Tis a sad day at a bar when not a single rumor spills from drunken lips. Means times aint interesting, or folks got sumthin to hide."
“We drink to get drunk, we get drunk to fall asleep, when we fall asleep, we commit no sin, when we commit no sin, we go to the Heaven's."
"When someone wants to learn your craft,
teach them, for its how you will always be remembered."
"I'll take a wine if you please. If you have something of Thayan stock all the better."
"So, wot brings a fancy honorable Red to my bar when yer got yer own nice pretty place across the district?"
"I seek a man named Sel. You look similar to the man I met back in the Trollclaws. Perhaps you are him?"
"Hey, everyone!"
"Miss Wintertal. Didn't expect to see you here of all places. A pleasure."
"Why is it every time I make a bit of coins yer arse pops up?
"Well the bar is made brighter by your presence. I'm sure your employers pay you well for your services no doubt. Your music does have a way of raising spirits. Whether by soul or by the cup."
"How is the Khazark doing? I know she was planning on some big ol party"
"She is doing well enough. Often times she is away on business so I tend to run the day to day operations of the Enclave until she returns. Business has been a struggle due to our. . . dark reputation."
"Well it was a good move yall did giving food and supplies to the hungry over in Soubar
"Yes we seek to do our in helping the coast in it's time of need. To guide it's people toward a better future."
"I must ask...isnt it by Thayan law to sale all product at a ten percent discount to standard prices?"
"You're offering discounts?"
"Just a little something someone mention to me recently. Nae sure if its true but might help with reputation hmm?"
"I do believe it is true. As part of the negotiation with those in authority we require them to agree to the Law of Trade which is a 10 percent off all our magical wares. So, yes, I do believe it to be true."
"M-mae?"
"Sel, you alright?"
"Dont get any ideas dirty barkeep"
*He waves Mae over behind the bar then shot Karai a shush look*
I wonder, if I ask this woman beside me who plans to bartend at her own bar soon, if she sees the magic unfold before her? It's not hard to see, nor is magic required to see it. But its there, right there in front of us. Patrons around the drinking area, all here for their own reasons. To drink, to socialized, to listen to songs played by a minstrel. A man wanting to learn what he does not know. Subtle eyes observing the many patrons waiting to hear something of importance. A woman troubled and needed a drink and song to reset her emotions. Is all right here..you wont find it anywhere else. Only in a tavern.
"Look around and tell me wot yer see?"
"A few things. The two by the fire are more than likely having a somewhat private converstation. Bulby here has no respect for personal space or he would have set another stool down. Rose is enchanting as always. . Sera. . is lost to her completely."
"Good good each and everyone of em patrons are here for something. Drinks, a break, meetins, entertainment, a rumor or simply socializing. Question is, how do you keep that up?"
"As a gur. . There are about. . Four pockets too full of gold. But as the Paladin's wife, we do not steal from patrons. Most folk will tell if you ask. People like to talk, even more so about themselves. Show interest. Keep their lips loose with drink."
"Tell me this. Why did you become a bartender?"
*Why did I become a bartender?*
If I was rewarded a crowns treasure for every time that question was asked of me, I'd be filthy rich. To the common man, any work is work. After all, its better than not having one. But to sit behind a wooden bar, serving drinks to those wishing to relax their bodies and cloud their minds, someone will always say , "The pay cant be that great" . Oh but how they are so blind and not see the treasure before them. In this pitiful and odd world we liv in, there is only one thing more valuable than coins. And it can best be found in a bar.
"I use to spend alot of time tavern hoppin. Drinking to memories. And in true, I was planning to leave the Coast fer good. Was nearly completed in my volumes of books of my life and adventures. And on my last stop, I was at the Goblet..Sitting there drinking..looking around ..then I remembered something...I remember a woman who use to work at a bar over at the Fort Prominence. Not the likely of places but she was always there. No matter what..if I wanted a drink and talks..I just go there and on the same time, no matter the day, she was there. If I wanted to learn about rumors ..often times I'd just ask her. However she only knew the stuff in the North. So I thought to myself..the Goblet is a very well laid position to hear both from the North and South. And since I was planning to leave..well why not try at it"
"I can understand. Information has its uses. You know that as well as I do."
*Your bloody right I do.*
"You were smart to extend yourself to the Undercellar as well."
*A bunch of dead elves wasn't going to stop my work*
"I only came here cause of that bloody mess with the Pirates and that killin of Elves. That alone reduced my customer base from the South. Had to make up for that loss."
"Sleep, sweetie, let your floods come rushing in,
And carry you over to a new morning.
Sleep, sugar, let your dreams flood in
Like waves of sweet fire, you're safe within
Sleep, sweetie, let your floods come rushing in,
And carry you over to a new morning.
And carry you over to a new morning."
Dark eye's lifts slowly to watch the minstrel let fly her lute and spill forth lyrics that grasp the hearts of many patrons. That very minstrel does not preform merely for the paid coins. No, not with I. I found her, I encouraged her, I help create which that she's become. Regardless of the teases, regardless of the playful jests, or even the rudest of gestures or even the debates. We share a bond a friendship other's could not penetrate. Mathilde choose well in making her a wife. And I choose well walking into the Blade and Stars that one late night.
((Happy B Day Deragnost))
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Somewhere beneath the streets of Baldur's, a Festhall was filled with music, drinks and patrons.
And a pirate looking man in blue clothing, who was asking around for the bartender known as Sel...
((DM Ink))
“We drink to get drunk, we get drunk to fall asleep, when we fall asleep, we commit no sin, when we commit no sin, we go to the Heaven's."
