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Re: The Broken Goblet
Posted: Mon Jul 24, 2023 10:37 am
by selhan
Promise's
"I want what was promised to me."
"What was promised to you?"
"Revenge. And the destiny that I have beheld in my dreams."
It is often said, hell hath's no hurry like a woman scorned. But when you meet a Ruathen woman who's seek retribution for a promise not kept, her very demeanor can send chills reaching your bones. And I know such a woman. Her pale complexion and medium height could easily fool a man. If they were not directly looking up on her. The oddly rugged appearance equals the tone of her voice. The braids in her golden blond hair was surly not fashion by the hands of hairdresser, but more so by seasoned hands of a tribal warrior. In her casual attire, she often wears white fur coats , more to symbolize the furs of white wolf than merely seeking warmth from the cold. Don't let the appearance fool you. She would preferably attempt to hack your head off with a crude axe than to cut your throat with a sleek blade.
"If I see or hear of anyone of them stepping foot on the coast. I will seek you to let you know."
"I think I have told you already, I do not trust your words.. even if you think yourself genuine. But you may yet prove me wrong, I need information beyond that of Wulfrik and his ragtag crew of honor less mercenaries."
"Don't trust me. Just wait until the moment happens. I will most enjoy proving you I am the better mainlander"
"You are not all as useless as some of my kin think, nor as dumb as Wulfrik thought. But I need to know if there are others from my island here in this part of the Coast, do you think you can figure that out?"
"And what is your island called?"
"Ruathym, my home."
"Not lately no there was one other Sigrid I had met, claim to be of the same region as Volstagg. Red of hair, had a thing for bears."
"And there have been no others then?"
"Nae"
"Pity. I had hoped to find them here on the mainland. I do not wish to employ pirates or worse.. do you know what ships and their captains are in the Shore at present?"
"Why the interest?"
*She looks around the ships cabin again, her eyes settling on Virin briefly, then the windows and the faint moonlight streaming through* "I told you.. I want what was promised to me, revenge. And not what you think bartender" *She states in an irritated voice, her eyebrows narrow a bit as she leans against the table* "I need a ship, fully crewed and capable.. and not by you mainlanders standards. Eighty man strong, all hardened sailors, if we are talking Ruathen.. mainlanders, perhaps the double."
"The only ships that I know of current are few"
"This is what Wulfrik promised me and he could not deliver, instead he would wash the Dukes rear ends with his tongue and pretend that his legacy was realized and he wasn't just sold like a common (germbag). I do not want pirates, they will only have eye for the plunder. And though I care not what they take, this is about something far greater. Most mainlanders fear the Nelanther pirates, ever reaving and raiding along the Sword coast.... some fear the few savages that set sail from Mintarn or Gundarlun.. . most of them fear the Ruathen sails.. when they do see us. .. but if you have any wits about you bartender.. pull up that map and look further north."
"I fear you yet I still welcome you" *He grins*
"To you I am probably just some angry girl from a remote island and I imagine you are truly more scared of the muscular men you have seen me with in the past ja?"
"I wouldnt quit say it ..like that.."
"It matters little to me what you truly think of me bartender, but I shall indulge with my advise all the same. I am Sigrid, daughter of Grímr son of Grímnir. It is and yet even there, many men know not of me, but of my father. That feeling tingling in the back of your mind? That I am indeed dangerous?"
"Knowing your dangerous only give me caution. I for one judge by what I observe not whom they are. .."
"I need a crew and a ship capable of sailing to Tuern. With men that will not cower as they look their own deaths in the eyes. Now you know what I seek. I want revenge for my father and brother, Wulfrik promised he could deliver, yet when the time came.. he would rather settle in a stone house given by the Dukes, than aid his own kin."
"A man that breaks his word is no man at all."
"And his promise to burn my ship and me with it.. I shall not forget either, but he is an insignificant vermin, that I will simply take pleasure in strangling. .. I must find them bartender.. here or in another place. For this I will pay you handsomely, far beyond what you spend on this little boat. And I want to speak with Volstagg as well"
"You make me very curious what such a reward would be. Somethings ..are.....Far more worth than any amount of gold I think"
*She scoffs as she appraised* "Wulfrik and Jandar were less blunt, but equally stupid.. you do not fathom what you are dealing with at all bartender"
*He grins* "Careful Wolf..I'm savvy"
".. in any case...We have an agreement?"
"Deal"
"I must admit your ship surprises me a little."
"Why is that?
"I had thought it would be taking on water, with a torn sail and a crooked mast. At least it floats. I need my kin.. or I can not travel to Tuern" *She concedes with a melancholy and sadness in her voice*
"Patience, we will find them"
*She nods once, seemingly distraught her eyes frantically look around the cabin for a moment, then settles on Sel as she gives a firmer acknowledging nod of appreciation* "If you can help me, I will not only pay you. You will have my gratitude.. eternally. And that of my mother, uncle and all my kin."
"That is most Honorable"
"It would surprise them as much as I.. a mainlander who would care about our ancient ways and traditions."
"As I said..I fancy people."
I do fancy people. I was sincere to the woman that stood before me within the cabin of my ship. Was is really a habit or a liking of my feats to fancy people? I often wondered that many times. Other times, I wonder if it was due to a particular training so long ago, in another life, another time another generation. Regardless, the hidden pain on his woman's pride pains myself oddly. And strangely I feel inclined to keep my promise and ensure she gets what was promised to her. In truth I would have the means to provide what she needed. But nae that is not a promise I had made to the woman. Other's had to answer for that. Not I. I myself am a man of my word. I hold it in the highest regard no matter what anyone may think of me. I always keep my word, even if I must kill someone in order to do so.
Re: The Broken Goblet
Posted: Fri Jul 28, 2023 5:45 am
by selhan
Weary
"My eye's feel heavy, so does my spirit.
Like an aged man, with old injuries I feel every hurt upon waking in the morning.
I feel tired, I feel bored....perhaps it's time to move on"
The wind was at his back, so was the docks. And beyond the dock well pass into deeper waters his ship was anchored. Heading to the Broken Goblet the bartenders mind raced with many things. Things personal to him, things within the Shore, things within the city, things down near Amn. When it comes to things in Roaringshore, often the thoughts should be simple. But like any other place it had its complications.
"Greetins Captain!"
"Hi Captain"
"Farewell Captain."
"Do they really see a Captain in their eyes when they look upon me? They must be blinded with imagination. I am no Captain. I barely have a crew, hired men to keep my ship in working order has been all I needed. I have my home, I have occupations and I've had my share of adventures. I begin to notice I hardly have a need in coins, maybe, the edge of age has finally touched me, maybe I begin to feel old. I had wanted to live a thousand years but alas, it seems without necromancy, there's no doing so."
After changing into his apron , he started to clean around the bar. Likely often hearing Captains Pikes grumbling about his lack of presence, but he kept his mouth shut and simply took it. Pike knew the man useful, but he still had a tavern to manage. The bartender was sweeping by the window when he decided to look out to the ocean and spotted his ship. He wondered if he moved from the Shore, where would he take it? Or if he hired more locals, what adventures could be had? Hidden treasures to find? Ghost ships with mysterious past?
Our labor preserves us from three great evils, weariness, vice, and want. Rest when you're weary. Refresh and renew yourself, your body, your mind, your spirit. Then get back to work. I do not struggle against the world, I struggle against a greater force, against my weariness of the world. I have started to feel that I no longer had a taste for anything, a wish for anything, a love for anybody, a desire for anything whatever, any ambition, or any hope. Was it really my weariness? Or do I feel that there is no longer anything else to do? I've done far more than any average scoundrel. I've rebuilt an empire, I've brought scattered waste back to the usefulness. What was once dead, had been started to breath the air of life. I've found lost relics and return them to owners even if they were not rightful. Numerous tasks I've completed when many would cower from such or question their humanity. I've faced evil at their front door, I've sat with good that was more corrupt than a disease. Had it not all been enough? Ambitions? Never. I was the puppet, the tool that simply did. I've accomplished many things yet I still feel weariness deep within my heart. As if I've never done a thing.
"Searching my heart for its true sorrow,
This is the thing I find to be,
That I am weary of words and people,
Sick of the city, perhaps wanting the sea"
Re: The Broken Goblet
Posted: Tue Aug 01, 2023 2:00 pm
by selhan
Returning Pack Leaders and Crews
"Under a black flag we sail,
and the sea shall be our empire."
The Broken Goblet had been quite peaceful of late other than the common patrons and occasional fights. The bartender had took a break to take a stroll down to the docks. But then he seen a familiar face, one he's not seen in many years, one someone he know was also looking for.
"Well bugger me, am I seeing wot I think I seein?" *He looked shocked*
*The Ruathym warrior idled on the shore in the fog - a barbaric regality to his iron gaze as it turned even and slowly upon the speaker. He look the fellow once up and down.*
"The leader of the pack has return eh?"
"I remember a man in darks," *the sea wolf spoke slow and thoughtful as he approach Sel, there, on the wharf.* "and mischief that were afoot." *a stern smile creased the barbarian's face as he reach to offer his arm and hand to the rogue.* "Hail to you."
*He reached out and clasp the mans forearm in a greeting hold while offering the devilish smile* "Been quite awhile since I seen yer face. Much has change, much has change. Somethings didnt others..very much"
"So I suppose," *the Barbarian gruffed. That icy shard of mirth passed, and he regard the man in darks somberly.* "I should like to learn the matters of the land - sparing the nonsense... Have you the time?"
"Sure"..*He raises brow looking at he other arrival then gave a chin nod* "One of yers too? Dont think I remember that one."
Although soon behind him, where was another body, a woman with a brown fur cloak. Her face barely visible, but the tattoo upon them was clearly notices. Was she a companion the bartender wondered, but after some inquiry it she had not been. But all can change within a tavern with delectable throat soothers that could soon open a strangers lips for conversation.
"Well, come on , let me offer yall something to drink. Seems like yer can use some from the travel returned." *He tips his hat* "And I can give you a bit of whats changed this part of the Coast."
"I'll take drink."
"....welcome to Roaringshore, a lawless village, run by the High Captains themselves. A place of pirates, thieves, and smugglers and wot other lot you might find." *He grins* "And this is the Broken Goblet. Do mind the rules what few there is."
"They call me Herewith Wildeye of the Frozenfar, or once was of. I don't know much about no high captains fraid'. Long as nobody tries to steal from me we'll all just keep our teeth in the right places."
"What do you have that is worth of stealing?"
"Well if anyone does, you can cut their hand off and no one will say much about it" *He chuckles* "Freedom land and all." *He looks to Wulf and barks a laugh at his comment*
It was soon they were around the bar, in which it had become an important place, a place to gather the word of old and the word of new. Rumor's were the peoples way of learning what was often going on in the world we live in. Sometimes there were accurate, other times like any tale told through many lips, details gets drowned out, or over exaggerated. Talks of the fall of Gods, war in the peaks and other tales were shared along with a good drink. Until however...a goblet was broken.
What is the worse thing that can happen in the Broken Goblet?..Fights? Nae. Murder or the cutting of a man throat? Nae once gain. A man could have his neck snapped without much of a reaction other than a cheer. But thee worse thing that can happen is allowing one of the precious goblets made of blown glass that rests upon an elegant stems with the many various designs shatter. And it has happened before. But it happened this night. And the bartender became furious, and stricken with panic and he looked to Captain Pike with an expression and plea for help.
"OI!" *He glared at the woman* "Yer out yer fokin mind?" *He looks back at Pike with a look of worry* "Fok me..If ..*He looks back to the woman* "Nae the glass never the glass!. Break bones, noses, necks even! Nae the glass! Me boss cherish them things"
Captain Pike: "He speak the truth woman ya drink now is double the coin till end of day"
"Look rules in here simple..no breaking the glass nor the furniture , thats the first and most important rule. Boss dont care if someones face get smashed in so long its not the furniture or the glass." *Winces* "Pike can we not let Miss jackie know?"
Captain Pike: *Eyes Sel* "I aint be tellin her"
The bartender quickly cleaned up any evidence of shattered glass. The blood spilled from the womans hands was quite ignored by the bartender, for blood stains on the bar often happens and it be considered normal. But shards of glass, that only invites a very upset Miss Jackie. But there was a new presence at that hysterical moment that sent away any feelings of panic from the bartender. It was a familiar voice, a familiar face of a vibrant and cheeky she devil. Someone very close to him.
*She reaches up and touches her hat with two fingers and lifts them away in greeting* " ello Pike, Ello luv... ello people"
*He grabs whole bottle of rum then walks over to his woman and hands it over while popping the cork, a look of hunger, a look of longing*
"My guess is she likes em glasses a certain way.... *Smirks and takes the bottle giving it a swig* and dun like people breakin hard ta replace glasses"
"Aye call it strange. some parts I can agree..but it still not as bad as the city." *He gave her a playful spank* Nice of yer to stop by, hows yer venture luv?'
"She laughs and sways her tail back and fort a bit behind her* "Venturous.... full of darin do's.. and doing dares."
But regardless of the night of returning faces, and new ones, or the breaking of glass or the reunification of intimate hearts. Goblets still had to be filled and stories and rumors needed to be shared.
Such is the way in the Broken Goblet.
But in the back of his mind, he knew there was another wolf to meet, and it will have to be soon.
Re: The Broken Goblet
Posted: Tue Aug 01, 2023 7:41 pm
by selhan
Bartender's Promise
“I know it is a bad thing to break a promise,
but I think now that it is a worse thing to let a promise break you.
There's one bartender that always keeps his promise, by any means,
....necessary.”
Sometime, people have a past they rather forget. How pleasant it would be to all of us, if we could simply take bad memories and discard them without ever remembering them soon after. Some pasts are haunting, dreadful. Not all are pleasantries that we would rather embrace closely to our hearts. Nae, I say onto you, the dark and dreadful past that nearly each of us has, can never be forgotten. You can try, but the attempt is futile. I know one woman who never made such a foolish attempt as to forget her past. No she did quite the opposite. ...She embraced it!
No matter what demons they were, nor how long of a time had gone by, her plan was to face it. And that moment was near....very near.
*She idly inspects her nails a moment, her icy gaze squinting at the Skeid moored by the dock*
The slender physique of a man walked down towards the docks with a light step, with intentions to see to his ship. But something caught his ever observant eyes. A familiar face, a face he knew he'd run into soon. He owed that particular face that beheld a smooth and nearly unblemished surface, accompanied by a pair of cold icy blue eye's. And he knew he had to pay his promise this day.
"Oh fok me.." *He rubbed his face then glances around before approaching the known figure but his steps where slow, his eyes trained on the wolf*
*A golden brow lofts as she turns her head, eyeing Sel in the dense fog* "Bartender.."
*He continued glancing around as if worried someone else might happen upon them* "Aye..we need that talk.."
"She motions to the ship by the pier* "If this is what I suspect.. then indeed. *She turned her head towards the white wolf by her side* "Freki, dont bite him.. come, we will feed you after. *she says in a commanding tone to the beast at her side.*
*The white coated wolf who knew not the man, gritted his teeth and let out a snarl as the figured approached*
"No.."
"Great.."
*Between that hungry wolf and a soon to be emotional woman I doubt this will go good.*
*She takes a deep breath of the sea air as she peers over the water, adjusting one of the many golden armbands on her wrist, she turns to Sel and taps her foot* "We rowed for a while, now we are here on your surprisingly still floating ship.."
*He removed his hat and scratched the back of his head letting out a long sigh after they boarded the ship*
*Of course it bloody still floats, It cost me nearly a million in gold*
"Wulfrik arrived last night. Stepped onto the docks when I met em. He's staying in the Village, fer now." *He regarded her eyes to see her expression*
*Her brows narrow a moment, she stares at Sel with an indifferent expression, then forces a brief smile, her eyes wander about the deck of his ship, she takes another deep breath and exhales through her nostrils* "And what did you tell him?"
"Nothing. Other than what he wanted to heard in regards to the latest of news, and happenings along this part of the Coast. I naught mentioned your name if that is your worry."
*She still doesn't trust me*
*He turned on his heel* "Each time that I tried to press about him rebuilding the pack, he seems to dodge the question or seemed like he had no heart in doing so.." *He suddenly spun back around on the heel of his boots while lifting a finger* "However.. There was another woman. They spoke the same tongue. And later into the night, that is how they spoke to each other. I don't understand the language.."
".. is that so? .. so he was not alone.. *she seems to muse to herself, her gaze drawn to the horizon a moment, then snaps back to Sel* ".. a woman you say? Did she have any markings, upon her face?"
"He was alone, but this other woman, arrived soon after. And they had just met. But they left together.
*Hmm, she seems worried if he's had allies*
*She nods twice* "And you are certain they had just met ja? How do you know this bartender? Tell me everything."
"Aye some tattoos but I wouldnt know its meanings, Her name was Herewith"
*She echoes the name* "Herewith, hm.. *she rolls her shoulder in a brief shrug* "Not Mjöll ja?"
"Nae not that name"
*I remember Mjöll Herewith she was not. Something is bothering her*
One moment of patience may ward off great disaster. One moment of impatience may ruin a whole life. It's not uncommon that people are not trusted. Many of times, people are not whom they appear to be. A rare few that I even know of, do not hide behind a mask of manipulation or lies or misdirection. There has been tales of brothers betraying each other. I myself know that all to well. For even I once had a man I considered a brother, and I had to kill him. It is why, I often pull away to companions whom I feel is getting too close. I hesitate each time yet I can not help watching people and their tight nit companions form the solid bond of family and brotherhood. It is how I met this woman before me. Her pack, her friends, the Northerners was a force that trembled the very ground they walked on. Brash, rowdy, prideful. I've lost count to the many places they were ushered or kicked out of an establishment. But regardless I use to watch them, envy even. And I had even admitted that to the women. I myself will never be able to fit in with her people. I'm not from the north, nor could I ever hold their culture as one of mine. No, I've lived a far different life, that seems to lead to a far darker path. *His hand rests upon the hilt end of his sword* Dark indeed.
*He chuckles then takes a slow step closer * "A bartender isn't a good bartender, if he doesn't have rumor's and secrets..am I right Sigrid? I'm sure you found me useful. And loyal ." *He inclined his head*
"So far, how do I know you didnt spin the same pretty story for the First Axe ja?"
*He bent at the hips and leaned forward* "That be bad fer business. After all, I'm one of those special kind of bartenders. You paid me for a job, I was in your service. The task complete, just as you instructed yes? And the best kind of bartender is one that gets many words without having to go anywhere. Your request kept secret, I shared with no one."
*You would never know if I had spin the same tale to the First Axe, your just got no choice but to trust me*
*She crosses her arms huddling under her furs in the night wind upon the deck* "How well do you really know him bartender? I remember you, those years back.. what do you know of Wulfrik the Deceiver, the Icewalker, Son of Ruathym?"
"Nae to much. those many years ago when you had seem me linger around your pack, I did so with curiosity , with amusing interest. To see such a bond ...I admit..I had envy'd. But regardless, your culture, I could never fit in nor adapt to your ways."
*She barks a guttural laugh and grins at him* "Envy? Truly?"
"Tis been a very long time, when I use to have ..I guess you could call a pack. But that was a decade ago. And it was ill fated. I refuse to allow myself such a thing again. Somethings are too painful to repeat."
"A bond as thin as water it would seem bartender, the allure of gold seemed greater for some, glory for others. There was a bond ja.. and he is.." *she wrinkles her nose* "charismatic.. hmph." *she grumbles to herself, muttering her breath a moment, her expression slowly softens as she exhales a long drawn breath*
"Well, what ever your intentions is with him..to collect on the promises made, or to befriend him again or kill him..that is nae my business. I do hope to still see you around .Such a face belongs in the world"
*What's this?..she fancy's him? well well so she's a woman after all, her admittance to merely that makes her shift uncomfortably*
"My intentions with him? *she offers him a bemused expression for a moment, then cants her head* "You think I would want to kill him ja? And you would rather I did him, than he me?"
"What are you thinking of doing?"
"Not what you expect perhaps. I wanted to know if others of my kin came this way, the things that have transpired on our island the past years have been.. unkind. There are few of us left now bartender."
"If he sees you, what is the likely reaction from him?"
".. that is what I do not know and what worried me, he may well strangle me perhaps ja. But *she pauses a moment and looks at Freki* If he is alone you said.. or with some other woman? Her-.. Herewith?"
*He approached boldly with a curious expression that soon turned to a smile* "So is that what this is about? Guess your a normal woman after all.."
*She exhales a breath* "I.. I dont even know any more bartender, it was about surviving at first ja? Which may just have become a lot more difficult.. but promisses that I can not run from hmph. Not to him, to my kin back home, if any is left..*her expression turns grim, her voice echoes with bitterness* "For a time I wanted to kill him.. now I am not so certain."
*He smiled a friendly smile and spoke softly realizing what is revealing before him* "Sigrid. I no doubt you a great warrior. With much pride in your heart. But your still a woman, and a woman lonely. And I dont mean that you seek merely a man. You seek kindred spirits. A pack. Your people. All this time you are surrounded by mainlanders..city folks. That is not what your heart desires."
"My hearts desire was taken from me many years ago bartender.. but you are in part right *she concedes with a grimace* especially now."
As I looked into her cold icy blue eyes, I no longer was looking at a harden warrior. Not that she wasn't, but just not at this moment. As the moonlight fell upon her face when she turned to overlook the horizon, and the sea winds blowing at her golden hair. I realize the mere thought of her being alone and not around her people, or people like her was what troubled her most. Her grip to vengeance seemed more of an excuse to simply have the man in her presence once more. In truth I knew not the details of their fallouts, but I know this, she has come to terms that her death might be near or a broken bond might be renewed. And she seems to be willing to risk her very life for either outcome, so long as she was no longer alone. A woman like her would take pride in her death if it came at the hands of Wulfrik the First Axe. But bloody hells, that would also be a sad day. She's been alone all these many years, simply seeking her kind, her people, others like her. And all she manage to find was a bartender that worked out of the Broken Goblet.
"See to it that she returns to where ever she wishes to go to...safety"
*As the rowboat pulls away from the pier, Sigrid would shout back at Sel
"Next time you see Wulfrik.. ask him where his wife is bartender."
*She misses them all including Wulfrik*
If a patron was ever to ask the bartender of the Broken Goblet, what he thought about old companions and their grudges. He would tell them..
"Mistakes are made once.
If its often repeated, then it was a decision"
Re: The Broken Goblet
Posted: Thu Aug 03, 2023 11:02 am
by selhan
A Goblet Returned
I've had many patrons that often frequents the Broken Goblet. Some that are even employed there. As time goes on, they come and go. And other times they return. Much like my hired Bruiser. The known bouncer that was a mountain of muscles that often threw out unwanted patrons or patrons that violated rules within the Broken Goblet. And he was allowed to do so with violence. It was how we did things in Roaringshore.
"Lo sea rat."
"Oi Shite yer big bugger!" *He barks a laugh and jump and hugs the man!*
*Gives Sel a crushing man hug for a moment then pats his greasy dark hair* "Ow are ya?
"Alive at least. Took care of some local boys trying to kill me. His ass rotting in my ship"
*Your ship? *Raises a thick brow then huffs deeply.*
"Wot didn't I tell ya I buy a ship?!" *He grins* "Well Shana's claimin it you know how that goes"
"..I know I poofed on ya like some amn thief, Needed space ta mold things over."
"Hey yer back thats all that matters and yer alive. Come on, lets go take ya to the big lass."
My Bruiser and I had many moments, many adventures, and a whole lotta fun. We've crashed parties, shocked nobles, did the unthinkable, and drank a whole lot. Some called us outrageous, some looked at us as if we were a pair of bad habits. We agree.
And no sooner had we reunited, and ate a hearty meal and drank while discussing stories , we had already found ourselves in a plot of intrigue. An abundance of undead rats where becoming more than simply an annoyance. Something foul was afoot and someone was responsible. However, such a thing is now how I welcome my bruiser home. Oh no never. Need to find him a wench. That is the Goblet's way and we both will drink to that.
Re: The Broken Goblet
Posted: Tue Aug 08, 2023 6:55 pm
by selhan
Difference in Opinions
"When seeking any information, the best start is in a tavern"
"I'd rather not linger in this town."
"Why you don't want to linger here?
"You do know this is Amn, right?"
"Yet you were goin to fight for them..."
"Not for them. For the people."
"Tis the same"
"It is not."
"Killing an Amn soldier is not different than killing an Amn farmer other than, one's trained to fight the other is not."
"Depends on the person. There are some good folks even here."
"The same can be said in Roaringshore..."
"The few good ones that are there, maybe. But that's very few."
"Then I guess I'm merely a pirate after all.."
Do not think of knocking out another person's brains because he differs in opinion from you. It would be as rational to knock yourself on the head because you differ from yourself ten years ago. All conflict can be traced back to someone’s feelings getting hurt. People often silence themselves, or "agree to disagree" without fully exploring the actual nature of the disagreement, for the sake of protecting a relationship and maintaining connection. But when we avoid certain conversations, and never fully learn how the other person feels about all of the issues, we sometimes end up making assumptions that not only perpetuate but deepen misunderstandings, and that can generate resentment.
You said it, not I.
"Amn hunted and executed mages for simply being mages , they didn't even caused any transgressions."
Aye, one of the things to not like the place.
"Yet you were willing to fight for them in order to defend their people, the SAME people that cheers for the death of mages"
Roaringshore doesn't have a temple of Helm, does it?
"As you said. not everyone is bad...some good people in Amn as you stated ..SO..My question to you is.."Will you say the same of Roaringshore?" "And IF you do..if ever it needed defending..would you assist?
Pirates plunder. Would that not be deserved?
"Amn execute people for being mages would that not be deserving?
I'd send a warning. I'd trust you to get your arse out.
"And if you were asked to join in on the raid....on Roaringshore...would you?
Why would I?
"Friends maybe?
I don't see it happening. They aren't that stupid. If I had a reason, I would. That reason could have been the elves.
The logic of people always had perplexed me. Amn killed mages because of Amn's ignorance to understanding the cause of the dead or wild magic. And because the Auril's threaten the people of Amn, people ran to the call to defend Amn. Yet by all accounts, it was they that marched through the cold mountains to destroy the Aurils Temple. Defense of Amn? Or an Assault on the Aurils? *The figure smirked as he walked off into the darkness of the night with Roaringshore for his destination.* If patrons was to ask the bartender whom would he had sided with if asked to have joined the war between Aurils and Amn he would tell them...
"In my days, I wouldn't attack anyone unless I was paid too."
Re: The Broken Goblet
Posted: Sat Aug 12, 2023 8:04 am
by selhan
Crew's
“A ship's crew was like a family,
and together they had done what others,
never could have managed alone.”
Many ol time's the bartender of the Broken Goblet has been encouraged to start his own crew in the Shore. He was no pirate nor a Captain. He had enjoyed the living in the Shore and it's freedom ways. And as a bartender he couldn't be more happier. But sometimes, friends and patrons always tried to push the idea to him because they too sought adventures like a pirate.
The mere thought was intriguing, but could he be a worthy Captain he wondered? The Hellstorms was by far the best pirate crew in the Shore. Their standards, their ways was what the Shore needed. He truly had believed that regardless of his own difference of opinions. But the Shore lacked more of that. He knew that all he had to do was put out a flyer to hire and he'd get more than enough lads and lass that would surely jump aboard. But his life would surely change. Question was..would he do it? Did he want to make such a life changing decision? He'd lose friends, gain others. And the risks, the risk was real. Yet the thought of voyage, piracy, raids to plunder would surely be an experience new.
Passion needs to be at the heart of the project. Passion is infectious, so the more people who are enthusiastic about the project the better. Where and when a solution or answer does not easily present itself, there needs to be enough belief and energy for the project that still drives the production forward. Without the passion to go through whatever it is that will be thrown your way, you will not make it to opening night.
If a patron asked the bartender of the Broken Goblet, what he thought of having a crew of his own, he would tell them...
"Nae sure mate, nae sure...but a man got's ta admit, the think'n ol it sounds interest'n'
Re: The Broken Goblet
Posted: Sun Aug 13, 2023 5:28 am
by selhan
Tempting Ones Faith
When boiling desires burns like the embers of a fire and we temp the fate right before us, and challenge it, dare it, we take a serious risk. For every action there is a reaction. Not always will you get the reaction you had hoped for. Other times, you get just what you provoked.
Like when a man tempts a woman of love with desires of lust or desires of love without commitment, he provokes a dangerous risk. Lust is harmless to my eyes, love is dangerous.
Can a person merely engage in love a real intimate affection for a person without commitment? Would it be like tempting the gods daring them to cross their limits?
I was told there seems to be seven types of love. And today, I've learned two out of the seven.
*A book was pulled from the shelf, on the spine is was title The Seven Forms of Love*
Our previous heartwarder compiled the seven different types of love.
"Seven?"
The one you seem to practice often, if my assumptions are correct, is Ludas.
"Whats a Ludas?"
"Ludas is a playful or uncommitted love. It can include activities such as teasing, dancing, flirting, seducing, and conjugating. The focus is on fun, and sometimes on conquest, with no strings attached." *She shows him the passage, tracing a finger underneath the lines she's reading*
"That sounds very fitting..." *He said peering closer reading the text*
"....Problems arise when one mistakes Ludas for Eros, whereas Ludus is, in fact, reciprocated by Eros."
"I'm a man that likes fun..toy with me, and I toy back, indulge in me, and the effect will be returned. But..sometimes.." *He took a slow step forth* "Its not enough, it stimulates my body, my blood, but nae my heart."
W-Well... arrangements for more loving elements tends to be the basis of most romantic relationships. Are you saying you wish for a relationship with commitment?
"What I mean is..what if I wanted a woman to spend schedule moments but not of just lustful desires..something with more..intimacy..romance...passion? But without commitment..for I seem to find myself enjoying ...love...at times.."
I-I... suppose that is a possible arrangement. So long as all parties involve understand the boundaries of such an arrangement and respect them. Many often find it difficult to feel that kind of love without developing an attachment, so you would have to tread carefully with whom you choose to make such an arrangement with.
"Lust, Love without commitment, I find both fascinating and invigorating. So tell me, does not your Goddess allows such a thing?"
She does allow it. The act itself even without commitment is still a form of love that is pleasing to Lady Firehair. *She pauses briefly to take a breath, trying to keep the shakiness out of it as she did* So long as the arrangement is communicated effectively and everyone is on the same page. It can certainly be a... rewarding experience...
A rewarding experience I was told in my private counseling session. Would it really be I wonder? I presume its possible. But then again, love is unpredictable, it is just as powerful as it can be weak. Forever changing the influence of a person, allowing emotions to overwhelm the mind and reasoning. But I cant judge now. I still have five more forms of love to learn about. And I be a lying bartender if I said I surely didn't fancy the form of Ludas.
Re: The Broken Goblet
Posted: Wed Aug 16, 2023 9:13 pm
by selhan
A Night in the Office
Between the late night and early morning hours, the tavern known as the Broken Goblet had more than their normal amount of patrons. Some visitors didn't come for rumors nor to quench their thirsts with the delectable throat soothers. Instead they came in regards to the recent notice posted around in the Shore. A notice of hiring fitting bodies for a crew. A crew for the Sparrowhawk.
With the first interesting body, questions and knowledge where shared, talks of possible expectations and questions to why the interest. To each their own for any man, woman or dog that wants to be part of a crew. But I'd tell ye, no matter what sort of scallywag comes in the Goblet wanting to sign up fer' a crew....they all will need to understand the ways of the Shore.
As the night went on and goblets of rum touched lips, more and more interesting minds arrived in regards to the notice. Experienced shipwrights offering their service. Hired arms seekin to make coins. Aye to each their own.
Either it be a lass with experience in sailing,
Or a swordarm looking fer' sum action,
The Goblet had its patrons and the first night of interviews. But to their surprise the man interviewing them was not the person to be their Captain. Nae, the bartender in the Broken Goblet had a specific job to gather a crew. Once there's enough abled bodies, they will all be summoned to face the Capt'an whom they will serve under.
Who that will be? Well only a few within the Shore would be know'n the answer to that. For the others, well that with be in a surprise fer them mate.
As the interview was over and the back room emptied, four figures stepped out into the drinking area one by one to see the many pirates, smuggler's and thieves drink to their hearts content or until their dwindling coin purse was emptied. Some left with hopes for a job, others left with thoughts of adventures. But the bartender in the Broken Goblet knew one thing, the nights are going to be very interesting.
Re: The Broken Goblet
Posted: Fri Aug 18, 2023 7:19 pm
by selhan
Shore Lore Again
Roaringshore...a small, isolated village on the Sword Coast.
Geography,
The village nestled in a small deepwater cove on the coast, with the Winding Water river and Lathtarl's Lantern located north of the village and Baldur's Gate to the south.
Government,
Roaringshore was known for being a lawless place, much like the neighboring village of Lathtarl's Lantern to the north. Ruled by the High Captains and High Admiral. Seasoned pirates with notable deeds of various sort. Some say they can be considered equal to the Dukes of Baldur's. Word is they are quite brutal when want or even need be.
History,
Though such tales have grown in the telling, this is still a place raided at least once every summer by mercenary armies of 70 or more lancers or horse archers, hired by Amn and Baldur's Gate.
Rumors & Legends,
One agent of the Harpers claimed the local tavern, the Broken Goblet, was run by mind flayers who used the establishment to gather information about illicit doings occurring around the Sword Coast. One thing that could be verified, the bartender's there seem to know a good many rumors in and out of Roaringshore in regards to the North and the South.
The traveler should be aware that many pirates here are runaways, local thieves, and adventurers all out to make an impression, and perhaps attract some business as mercenary hirelings. A lot of posing goes on. This can make Roaringshore a very dangerous place for the visitor who isn't in a large, well-armed group, or obviously powerful.
The Broken Goblet,
When pirates and lawless folk come to brawl and carouse, their first thought is to roll into the Goblet swords drawn, and swagger as they promenade along the raised entry dais and down toward the bar. It's the place to be seen -- and the place to be killed in, if the body count of the last few years is any indication. Don't go here unless you're very good with a blade, alert, have a lot of well-armed friends with you, and are protected against poisons. beware, this place is strongly warded, and the defenses permit only existing defensive spells to continue. Newly cast spells are twisted and lost, without effect. The defenses also whisk all missiles like, hurled glasses, daggers, darts, bolts, and arrows alike up into gentle contact with the ceiling. This prevents broken glasses -- for drink is served here in ornately carved and blown glasses, some of which are exquisitely beautiful, and rather more of which are simply rude.
The staff here go armed with daggers, boot knives, and steel knuckle spikes. Overly amorous patrons are warned that the large men with many scars are large men with many scars, but the buxom wenches with the long lashes and ready smiles are doppelgangers. They often respond to overly familiar touches with a dagger strike and a shift in the form of one hand into a loose curtain of flesh that can be slapped over a patron's face to smother or blind him. The Goblet sells no food, but patrons can bring in all they like. One free glass per patron per evening is included in drink prices.
Traveler's Lore,
The anonymous owners of the Goblet keep many treasure maps, wills, and written deals hidden in vaults for pirates, who pay 100 gp per page for long storage. The items are stored from when they are left until they are retrieved by the surrender of a symbolic key (usually a brass token). Rumor has it that the tokens look like brass sea shells, but no one has ever been able to definitively prove this.
I mean come on now, what's there not to really like about the Shore? It's lawless, there's no prissy people, rum aplenty and the Goblet even sales Orc Grog. I mean just look at Captain Pike and Sally, don't they seem happy?
Savvy?
Re: The Broken Goblet
Posted: Sat Aug 19, 2023 12:38 pm
by selhan
Gobleteer's!
“There comes a time in a person's life when they hears the call of the sea. "
It was another evening within the Broken Goblet with carousing pirates, smugglers and thieves. But what made this evening different was a woman signing up to join a crew. And she was meeting the very person she would in the future call Captain Sparrowhawk.
*Saunters over and lifts one bottle from the counter, pulling the cork out with her fang and then spitting it into her palm before taking a deep drink*
*He chin nods to Sheren as he looks to Shana* "This the lass I told yer about, interested in signing up fer the crew., she got some experience in sailin too."
"Aye? lookin fer a crew? Sharen eh? What ye searchin fer out at sea?"
"Out at sea? my destiny."
Inherited Will, The Destiny of the Age, and The Dreams of the People. As long as people continue to pursue the meaning of Freedom, these things will never cease to be. Everyone has a destiny and its only a matter of time before they find it.
"Well I ain't gonna contradict that... Destiny be what ye make of it though.... so win or loose... ye found it." *Gives a laugh and shakes her head with a bit of mirth* "Still ain't that much different from my own reasons."
"I would leave the crew if you make profit with slave-trade. Thats my own limit."
"Aye? Well let me ask ye this. If I raid a slave ship.. make money from their coffers.. aint that profit off of slave trade?" *Raises a brow* "Would ye have me not?"
"What would you make with slaves an this ship?"
"Crew em maybe?"
"Depends. If tha slaves be wanting freedom, sure... if they be where they want ta be..." *Shrugs* "Ain't going to force someone ta free themselves... just another sort of slavery that"
*Stomps his way down the stairs, then to the bar. He eyes Sel then gives a cheeky wink to Shana.* "Lo there ya lowly scum." *He rumbles.*
"Eh.... tithe yer way ta some semblance of safty at sea. I follow other divine paths meself.... Ello Diremule" *Waves the bottle of rum to Volstagg*
"Welcome mate." *He made a drink for the Goblets Bruiser while passing a large some of coins* "Back pay."
*Takes the coin in a meaty paw, towing it off his thick belt. Picking up the ale he takes a long swig then back on the counter. He looks to the new face.* "Who's this now?"
"This here Sheren, she was the first outsider to sign up to join the crew. Just meeting Shana now too" *He chin nods to Volstagg* "This the Bruiser of the tavern, he throws out or pounds out unwanted folks that cause too much trouble. Also part of the family"
"Well... do ye have the wherewithal ta stand yer ground and follow orders in tha face of certain death? Able ta remain calm in tha most chaotic of situations and nay mind tha madness that surrounds events?"
"In a sail the cap's orders I will follow, even I don't understand them fully in that moment, that's the sea-law. But I will ask after the action and after a tour I'm used to speak free about what's happened"
*He nods towards Sheren* "Liking this lass already." *He barks a laugh*
"Perfect!" *She nods a bit* Stopping to explain or come up with an explanations often takes too much time in tha moment."
It surely was a different evening in the Broken Goblet. But like most times, its interesting with a lot of drinking and some fun. But there she was the woman in pursuit to have her own crew and to become a Captain. Either a pirate or a privateer who's to say, just like the wind, directions and change. But if you were to ever ask this particular lass what's her purpose as a pirate she would tell you...
"To pilfer and pillage and scoundrel my weasley black guts out."
Re: The Broken Goblet
Posted: Sun Aug 20, 2023 9:28 am
by selhan
Another Arrival
The smoke was thick the smell of spilled ale and rum heavy in the air, brawny and hard leather faced men stood or sat around carousing or telling a tale. But there was a new face, a tailed one, with short reddish hair and one good eye. Thick horns and bit of attitude with swords on her back.
The notice seems to have been taken serious as more and more scallywag's enter the Broken Goblet seeking to sign up to join a crew. Able men and women would surely be needed for the near future. However a mage is still needed. Some wonder why a pirate crew would be in need of a mage. The answers simple, wards to protect the ship, water breathing spells incase of mishaps or other reasons, and most of all, to control the winds to help the ship sail to its course.
With friends and the common patrons enjoying their ordered drink, the Goblet was having it's normal night. The bartender could only hope to find the necessary people to add to the crew, for the thoughts of sea adventures is becoming enticing. And as he looked around the Goblet he couldn't help but also wander was there gonna more woman joining the crew or some men. Cause as of now, its more women than anything.
But then again, this bartender surely wouldn't be complaining. I mean how can you go wrong with a pirate lass? Their sexy filled with flare and seen or been in enough fights to be able to hold their own. A woman that's willing to cut a mans throat to protect their man and drink rum? I call it a Shore way of paradise.
Re: The Broken Goblet
Posted: Tue Aug 22, 2023 4:51 am
by selhan
Enemy of my Enemy
“I ask you to judge me,
by the enemies I have made.”
Stepping over thick roots and moss, he was careful to set his foot down quietly not wanting to disturb the forest. He soon came upon a stream, the water clear and clean filtered by rocks. Refreshing it had tasted. If one even attempted to try to be in tune with the forest, they could understand why the elves make it their home. Filled with its natural resources and the ambient sounds, some would claim it was magical.
I've meet plenty of elves, most often the ones that had left their settlements to live a city life for what ever reasons they have. But I was far out of my comfort zone, I was looking for their home. And I found it. I knew the general location of where it was, but the forest always feels that its ever changing to me. As if each time I enter it, things simply appear different compared to the last. Once I found the entrance of the Elven village, I had to try my best to look harmless and civil. After all, I'm human and an outsider. Greeted by elven archers who were at the ready to fill me with arrows if I so much as appeared hostile is the normal thing. I was now entering their domain. They allowed me passage and as I walked up the narrow path, I couldn't help but stare at the beauty of such a place. If I had to describe it in a single word, it be tranquility.
*Her eyes look to Sel* "Is this a private matter, or something in which you can sit and join me here for?"
*Definitely private*
"Very ..private" *He side glances looking at the man with suspicion* "If you two got business I can wait."
"I was merely on patrol in the Sharpteeth, and I haven't been to the village in some time."
*A silvery white brow raises at Sel.* "He is one of the Heart's... well, about to be one of our new squires.. Lysander, this is Sel. A bartender of Roaringshore with a fashionable hat."
*Informative*
"Lysander Goodman, Dawnbringer of the Morninglord, And, as Vanira stated, hopeful new squire for the Radiant Heart"
*Gods*
*He appraises the man as he sucked air in throught his teeth in a task* "Morninglord eh? " *He mutters something under his breath* "Another Kelian I see."
*He gave Sel a look* "Is there an issue you have with my faith and my role?"
*I care not for your faith nor your role*
*He waved a hand in the air* "Just someone I once knew. Morninglord in all that. Quite a famous man really."
"No, he is nothing like Kelian, thank the gods."
*Well well now this is interesting*
*He looks up to Vanira* "Then there's Hope." *He grins*
"He was a pomus arse of man... that swooned over anything with tits." *Slaps a hand over her mouth*
*Oh my..guess she's had her encounter before*
"I see"
*She coughs softly... with a soft grimace at the ... lack of diplomacy that burst out of her mouth there*
A man of human origins would have been seeing entering the tavern in Doron Amar, escorted by an Elven woman. Whatever the reason for their met or discussions, would be between them and likely soon other members of Doron Amar...maybe.
"....The most recent being the ones we spoke about earlier. Before I commit to anything though, I want information...."
*He slowly shakes his head to her request* "Sorry Luv,...I just want to make sure in the event something fails, there's another option. Nae askin you and your People to commit to anything."
"I will let the other Councilors know and see how they feel. Though, odds are Feleron is a solid no. I refuse to let the village play as a pawn in a game being played in which I am not seeing the other moves being made. Tactical moves can't be made without all the information."
"....I really don't need to be here but " *He smiled devilishly* "I was just thinking maybe ...they might have an interest ...and I an opportunity. If the interest is there ...I'm sure you will know how to inform me." *He winks then tips the brim of his heat and spun on his boots to make his leave* "Thanks for your time luv..stay savvy hmm?"
*The elf stands, slipping out of the chair with natural grace.*
As I stepped out of the tavern within the Even sanctuary, I looked around amused by the grand mystical sights within my view. Once upon a time, long ago I could have frequented this magical place many of times. Would have even tried to become close friends with all the Elves. But that is a chance in my life forever lost. When one steps on the roads or cobblestone streets, there many bends and turns and even detours. Each path leads to a journey, different from each other. Lucky ones will reach the same destination no matter the difference in the path. But the unlucky ones, will see a different ending. No matter what they had wished for. And as much as it had pained me to be unable to turn back the hands of time, I will still admit, the life that I had lived thus far, has be very adventurous. Would I wish that things had gone differently? I can't say, after all I've been have too much fun.
If any of my patrons in the Broken Goblet, ever told me they had no enemies I would tell them...
"You have no enemies, you say? Alas, my friend, the boast is poor.
He who has mingled in the fray of duty that the brave endure, must have made foes.
If you have none, small is the work that you have done. You’ve hit no traitor on the hip.
You’ve dashed no cup from perjured lip. You’ve never turned the wrong to right.
You’ve been a coward in the fight."
Re: The Broken Goblet
Posted: Thu Aug 24, 2023 6:13 am
by selhan
Dark Journey
"Walking with a friend in the dark,
is better than walking alone in the light."
There's a place that's always been around. We just never see it because its right below us. Many don't even realize its there. Others do. Some wont dare to go there. But others, been there...often. In a place where the sun light never touched, and where mushrooms glow and stalagmites aplenty, is a world known as the Underdark. The bartender of the Broken Goblet has dared venture there a few times in his human life. The first few was never friendly. But each time it's always about business.
If a patron ever asked the bartender of the Broken Goblet, if venturing down to the Underdark was any fun? He would tell them...
"Fun is wot yer make of it. Know the right people,
and don't make the wrong moves,
and you'll be in for a ride of yer life."
((Thank DM Summers that little bit was hilarious! And to the New player and to the returning one Welcome to BGTSCC!))
Re: The Broken Goblet
Posted: Thu Aug 24, 2023 3:02 pm
by paragon_nemesis
// Super fun bumping into a DM my first login returning! Still getting my bearings on everything. Amidst working on a router about to die while they finish configuring my new one.
We'll have to go on some more adventures very soon. It'll be way better next time!
