Post by Stingray888 on Nov 30, 2013 0:47:38 GMT
Meghyn, the Tale of a Cut-Purse, 'GrognarLoden'
Years ago you might have seen her mother Rebecca at the Black Dragon Inn of Port Alton. Rebecca was a well-rounded waitress in more ways than may be appropriate to mention in mixed company. Suffice it to say that Rebecca could, among other things, wait tables, cook, clean, mend linens and even tell a story or two when the traveling minstrels were 'under the weather' and the crowds wanted to be entertained.
Rebecca caught the eye of several patrons and often earned a little bit of extra for herself by providing attentive company to several of the gentlemen callers. Some of the 'Jons' were sailors passing through the port, travelers from all over Lomar, even a few nobles made their way to the Inn among the cover of night.
Rebecca told her daughter, Meghyn, that one of the most memorable patrons (and perhaps her favorite 'Jon') was a crimson clad swashbuckler who would stay at the Inn when his schedule permitted. Suave, limber and quite persuasive, this gentleman (known only as Mister Jones) managed to take his relationship with Rebecca further than any other of the patrons before.
Twas not long after that Rebecca began to swell and soon realized that she was with child. Coincidentally, Mister Jones stopped returning to the Black Dragon Inn and was not again seen in, or around, Port Alton or in fact any of Lomar. Still, months later, Rebecca gave birth to a bright-eyed girl whom she named Meghyn (after her maternal grand-mother). Alone and without the suave Mister Jones, Rebecca struggled to support herself and her newborn daughter. Eventually, she succumbed to the desires of one of the somewhat well-to-do patrons, who oft chased after Rebecca years before. Eventually Rebecca married the man, Frederick, who ran a small mobile mercantile. Rebecca had a couple other children with Frederick, before the merchant became more and more angered and disrespectful, leading to the abuse of Rebecca and later Meghyn.
As she grew to young womanhood, Meghyn became increasingly aware of Frederick's abuses; likewise Meghyn began to learn a few tricks from the patrons of the Black Dragon...
To be continued...
Re: Meghyn, the Tale of a Cut-Purse, 'GrognarLoden'
Continued from above.
In her early teen years, Meghyn realized she inherited some of her father's manual dexterity. She could flit a coin about in her hands with little to no thought. This skill helped her to procure a few coins from the patrons of the Inn while her mother worked at waiting tables. Some of the patrons taught her a few additional 'tricks' like swiping an occasional purse or remaining hidden among the deep shadowed recesses of the tavern hall.
Learning how to slip quietly and remain hidden served Meghyn well when dealing with her step-father, Frederick. Meghyn was never tolerated by her step-father as much as her two half-brothers, partly because of her shown distaste for the way Frederick treated Rebecca (in particular when the shoddy merchant has a bit too much drink).
As Frederick grew more and more abusive of her mother, Meghyn began to feel some of the abuse spill-over onto her. Frederick initially took his excess anger at a failed sale or exorbitant (in his view) cost for product, out on Meghyn. But as she began to blossom, his abuses grew to a more notorious variety...
It was this which pushed Meghyn to the brink and beyond.
Meghyn used her deft fingers, one ale soaked night, and as Frederick unlatched his belt beside her bed-mat, the would be victim slid the stiletto from her step-father's sheath and quickly slit his throat from ear to ear. Blood spilled over her, replacing the blood which he intended to spill from her spent flower. Unprepared for the horror, Meghyn cried out with the full force of her small voice. Rebecca and the half-brothers rushed in finding a partially de-pantsed Frederick slumped dead over the young woman, who quivered half in fear and half in relief.
Shocked and disoriented, Rebecca screamed, following in suit with her young daughter. Meghyn misinterpreted the scream as her mother's anger at her; and so Meghyn fled as fast as her legs could take her into the night and far far from the small room behind the Inn of Port Alton.
Meghyn ran until her legs collapsed, certain that town guards and perhaps even her mother would trail behind, readied to imprison the child for her own defense. If only she had known that Rebecca and the boys felt more open disgust at Frederick and more than just a little relief and pleasure at his being put away from their family. Even the local guard (long time patrons to the Black Dragon) were somewhat gladdened and quickly covered up the murder.
Meghyn never knew, and a fair distance from Port Alton, not far from a large lake among the wooded hills near Illium, Meghyn eventually collapsed, every bit of adrenaline exhausted from her system. She gave up on her old life and when she eventually came to, she found a new life ready to begin...
Re: Meghyn, the Tale of a Cut-Purse, 'wbjoe'
Meghyn woke up as Marvelous thrashed in his sleep. "Luca, I'm sorry! We didn't want to toss ye overboard!" The pirate captain was sweaty and shivered.
Suddenly a cold clammy hand clamped down on her arm. The room was far more familiar than Meghyn ever wanted it to be. "C'mere deary..." The stench of alcohol poured out of her stepfather's drunken maw as his weight pressed her down. Meghyn gagged, unable to breathe...
As the weight and pressure melted away...Meghyn blinked as she realized she was underwater. "Calm down", said the mermaid, "you'll be all right, just take a deep breath." Amazed, Meghyn breathed in the water as if it was air...
Then a inky-black spot in the water floated in Meghyn's direction. A rotting arm reached out and cut down the mermaid in front of her. The elf eyed the now dead mermaid with dismay. "Get away, ye cursed beast!", screamed the pirate captain at the cloud as he and the priest frantically paddled past Meghyn.
As the cloud approached, Meghyn could make out a dark figure walking slowly within it. Unable to move, she could only watch in horror as the features of the figure became more apparent. "Did you really think you could escape me?", asked Frederick, as the blood poured out of his neck, forming the ever-darkening cloud around them...
Meghyn's eyes shot wide open as a loud voice called out something unintelligible just outside the room... The foreign girl, 'Batsu-ichi' gave her a reassuring look. "It's just the sweet potato vendor, hawking his hot-baked goods. Want me to buy you one?" She smiled.
Meghyn sat up and could see the denizens of Nanjing village, busy at work early in the morning outside of their room at the inn. The strange village seemed so much safer than her dreams...
Re: Meghyn, the Tale of a Cut-Purse, 'GrognarLoden'
A Brief Afterward.
Meghyn did indeed stumble upon a rather 'Grand Market', be it divine intervention or some rare fortune that took her there. She had little coin but desired to procure some tools of her trade. She wandered about the market, speaking briefly to a few of the merchants there. Soon she found one that was interested in trade, a trap maker it turns out. She eyed the tools laid out about the merchant's stall but let the merchant make the first move.
He spotted the pair of fine rapiers and made an initial offer. Meghyn showed the merchant the one which had lost its scabbard and told a wonderfully detailed story (and I mean story...) about how the 'family heirloom' was much too valuable in a sentimental way to ever relinquish. The merchant made a second offer, much better than the first. Meghyn knew this simple trap maker had somehow gleaned the enchantment placed upon the blade. She let the matter drop, or at least seemed to do so, instead turning her attention to gathering a supply of tools and devices that she thought would aid her and her new companions. A light bag to carry much, picks for locks, basic mechanisms for snares and other concealable traps, even a fine, dry set of studded leather armor. As she reached for the small coin purse, which she knew did not contain enough coin to make such a purchase, the merchant attempted one last offer... All that she selected plus a small sum, in exchange for the rapier which lost its scabbard. He even tried a reasoned approach, stating that one might never find a suitable scabbard and she could not possibly just carry the exposed weapon everywhere she was certain to go. Taking a practiced and exaggerated sigh, Meghyn finally relented, just as she planned from the start. She even made enough coin in the deal to further procure a fine short bow, quarrel of arrows and a few of those nice throwing knives. In the end she emerged from the 'Grand Market' quite well supplied. "Still will need to 'pick up' a few more things as we go, but it's a good start. Now I can show this rag-tag band of pirates what I can really offer to their group."
She took the few remaining coins and purchased a sewing kit and a few bolts of cloth. She though back to the lessons Auntie Marie showed her and while sitting quietly near her comrades in arms, stitched together a fine hat to wear with her new dry armor. "Never hurts to look good, and the deep hue of blue lends itself to disappearing into the shadows quite well", she thought as the Dwarf approached her.
"Good Lady", the Dwarf addressed her,"care to go exploring a bit as I try to gather a few items from the rock?" Meghyn took the moment to better introduce herself to the Dwarf, whom she came to call Will (so long as he promised to drop the 'Good Lady' bit. Soon the two were off exploring, searching for caves that might contain Salt-Peter. But before they got too far from the others, the Elf (still learning names) asked to join in the exploration. Might do well to have a superb archer in the ranks as the three went off in search of caves...
And so it was that Meghyn got an opportunity to endear herself to a couple of her new associates and show them just a little of the skills she has learned. She placed traps for them to hinder their foes in the caves, did a fair bit of sneaking and scouting, even displayed that she too had some skill with a bow. Sure the Elf was a better shot, but in a battle she could certainly assist. Similarly, she learned that the Dwarf was a Minstrel of sorts and a bit of a healer too. The Elf, she learned, was handy with more than just a bow, but still she marveled at the grace with which he shot arrows into their foes. Good company too, she soon realized. Folk that she would like venturing with, she surmised.
Meghyn took some time to thank the fates, 'The Wandering' has taken her farther than she expected, and despite the struggles, she actually enjoyed the associations she was forming with the 'crew' and the adventure she somehow stumbled upon. "This just might be a grand experience to one day share around the fire when I get back to the gypsy clan."
Re: Meghyn, the Tale of a Cut-Purse, 'GrognarLoden
Conclusion of Meghyn's background story.
She doesn't remember just how long she ran, or how far, before her body finally gave out from exhaustion and she collapsed in a wooded area near a large lake. Eventually, Meghyn woke to the gentle sounds of a brightly clad woman, "Wake now dearie. There's no more reason to run. You're safe with us travelers."
In time Meghyn would come to call that woman Auntie Marie, and the nomadic gypsies that Marie traveled with, family. Safely tucked away out of view of normal Lomarian civilization, Meghyn learned to refine those skills she picked up from tavern life. In return, Meghyn helped care for the younger members of the gypsy tribe, gathered fruits and vegetables, hunted, and an array of other 'innocent' jobs (including a few forays into the more civilized areas of Lomar during the dark of night when the locals were weary from a long day and easily distracted - and thus easily relieved of some small possessions).
In the town called Renford, Meghyn cut a couple purses and gained the notice of the guild there. She was 'enticed' to join their ranks and learned a few of their secrets. This allowed her to fence a few items that the pawn brokers would have naught to do with. As a result she was able to provide a bit more for her nomadic family, including a few toys for the young-ins. All was well for the next few years for Meghyn.
That is until it was determined by the Matriarch, that it was time for Meghyn to take 'The Wandering'. And so Meghyn left the encampment (hitched and encircled in the Lake Shale region) and made her way to the place that seemed to call her most, the port city of Alton near the western coast of mainland Lomar...
Re: Meghyn, the Tale of a Cut-Purse, 'GrognarLoden'
** A Stow-A Way's Story: Meghyn's First Adventure Beyond Lomar **
The Matriarch gleaned that it was time for the young woman, Meghyn, to take what the tribe referred to as 'The Wandering'. She was to leave her second family and find a path on her own. What the road held before her would be revealed in time, the roguish woman need only follow her most basic instincts and follow one foot with the other.
Meghyn felt some compulsion to return to her childhood home to the west, back to Port Alton, where some years ago she hastily fled the home of her mother, Rebecca, her recently departed step-father Frederick, and two half-brothers (odd, she could hardly remember the boy's names). Once upon a time, the younger version of her ran completely from Alton to Shale without stopping. Now she realized just how far that journey was.
By the time she arrived at Port Alton, Meghyn was exhausted and nearly dead on her feet. She strode in the late evening dusk and came upon the docks. Most of the moored boats had some activity, save for one that was quite welcoming in its silence. Meghyn sought a bit of quiet for her slumber and not wanting to risk a return to the town tavern, she opted for the abandoned looking sloop. Meghyn relaxed underneath some loose piles of canvas and settled in for a decent nap...
To be continued...
Re: Meghyn, the Tale of a Cut-Purse, 'GrognarLoden'
Continued from A Stow-A Way's Story.
Meghyn dreamt of cool ocean breezes and the gentle swaying of waves. She had dreamed of being aboard a ship before, escaping Lomar and the life she lived with her dear sweet mother and vile, crude, abusive step-father. Yet she had not revisited those dreams since she fled to the relative safety of the gypsy camp. Perhaps it was the salt air of Port Alton's docks that stirred those dreams... Or perhaps she really was in motion, gliding among the waves far from shore???
Meghyn woke abruptly, yes, the 'abandoned ship' she selected for her nap was indeed moving. She peered out from under her stack of canvas and saw the crew pacing about. Frozen with fear she hoped to go unnoticed, but soon those fears were brought head long to light. A voice called out, "And what do we have here, a stow-away?". She heard swords drawn from their scabbards, arrows cocked in their bows, she was found out!
Slowly and carefully, Meghyn slipped from her makeshift bedding to confront her captors. 'Please good fellows, I mean no harm, I just sought a place to bed down for the night. I am at your mercy.' She frantically looked about the ship for some dark and shadowed place to slip away into, but found none, at least none that following eyes would not penetrate.
As fortune had it, the crew of the vessel were not immediately hostile, at least not towards her. It would seem that these men were on a mission of their own, and perhaps, just perhaps, this is where 'The Wandering' wanted her to go and these were the men she was to meet... So Meghyn offered her services in exchange for fare for her voyage. The dashing Captain of the boat came forward and accepted her offer, and none too soon, for just within view was their first target, another vessel just off to the port side and drawing close.
To be further continued...
Re: Meghyn, the Tale of a Cut-Purse, 'GrognarLoden'
Continued again from above.
The two ships neared one another, Meghyn could not tell which pursued which, but soon the ships were exchanging arrow fire. Meghyn had the enchanted rapiers that she 'picked up' somewhere during her life with the Lake Shale gypsies. Damn fine blades they are, but not much use over the distances they were currently fighting. One of the crewmen tossed her a few balanced throwing daggers. Meghyn flitted them in her hand getting acquainted with the weight and balance then proceeded to send them with relative ease to the combatants on the other ship. The knives struck a couple of them in the arm, one in the chest and another in the exposed part of the neck, just below the Adam's Apple.
Her fellows, on the ship she inadvertently stowed away on, sent crossbow bolts, arrows and if her eyes did not deceive her, even a few bolts of magical energy. Soon the enemy (whoever they were) were completely dispatched and my companions boarded the other ship. No booty (she remembers that term from the stories told in the old Black Dragon Inn) was found, save for more of those throwing daggers she came to like and a couple of other odds and ends.
Meghyn sighed in relief, she had survived her first full adventuring battle, with few marks or bruises, and her fellows came through similarly unscathed. Unfortunately, the next ship to ship confrontation would not go as well for the fearless crew...
To be further continued...
Re: Meghyn, the Tale of a Cut-Purse, 'GrognarLoden'
Continued from above.
It wasn't till the second ship came into view that Meghyn noticed the flag that flew on the bow of the ship she was now aboard. The patrons of the old tavern referred to the design as 'Jolly Roger', the mark of a pirate; black background with white skull and crossed bones. That would somewhat explain why the 'crew' did not seem to view her with much more trepidation than each other. As they drew closer to the second ship, Meghyn noticed that the others, aboard the ship she was on, did not exhibit much familiarity with one another, or even their Captain for that matter. All in all, it was a rather ramshackle crew.
She had not taken the time to study the others, though she knew she must. There was a peculiar Dwarf, a bit less stocky than those she saw sailing to and from Portsmith; he was no miner she surmised, and doubted he was much of fighter either. There was an exotic lady, a bit more mysterious than the others, who had the look of what some passers-through described of the refuge on the Isle of Tokaro. There was a strange mystic, Elven perhaps but she was not certain as she never truly laid eyes on an Elf (she had often though of visiting the shop owned by the bowyer, Lemay, but was always somewhat afraid of the immortal folk). An archer with more noticeable fine features that she though must indeed be Elven, and the way the arrows flew from his bow amazed her to no end, such grace and ease, it was like a natural extension of his limbs. And then there was their Captain... Strong in appearance, but charismatic in demeanor, still he was a mystery to her; as truthfully they all were.
Before she realized the two ships were close enough to lock in battle, again she had no bearings to determine which ship approached which. She had a full compliment of the finely weighted and balanced knives which she steadied point first in her delicate hands before flinging into the flesh of what she determined must be an enemy. When she allowed herself, she wandered which side she was truly on; ultimately, she did not care, for her survival seemed to rest within the hands of her shipmates so that was the side she would support.
This battle raged and she noticed that her companions were running low on ammunition yet more of the 'foes' came onto the deck of the enemy ship. Scrambling for missiles of any sort, the 'crew' of the ship she was on began to fall in pain from their wounds. Her last knife thrown, Meghyn grabbed a piece of loose rigging from the other ship and swung over to the other ship where one or two of her shipmates now fought in close quarters. With one of the enchanted rapiers in hand, Meghyn slashed and stabbed at the enemy. Unfortunately, the butt of the hilt from an enemy's sword caught her on the back of the head and she fell to unconsciousness.
She woke with the mystic sputtering something about death and knowing its course standing nearby either praying or spell-casting as another shipmate roused from his slumber. Uncertain whether she was magically healed (she hardly believed in such things despite the claims of those from the tavern who claimed to be healed by the Avarian priests) or had she simply come back to consciousness of her own. Either way, the bruises were painful reminders that she did not fare too well in this last battle. Few of the crew appeared any better, and, as it turned out, neither did the ship. It was sinking...
Dizzy from all the fighting and all the wounds she suffered, Meghyn wasn't completely sure if it was only two enemy ships they tangled with or if there was a third or fourth mixed in among all the fighting. She never claimed to be much of a fighter, typically escaping confrontations by hiding and fleeing when the odds got to great. Meghyn wasn't able to hide and flee in the mid day sun aboard the ships when no land was visible. No land visible! Gasp! The ship they were on was sinking... the dizziness returned greater than before and when she again came to, Meghyn found herself under water with something or someone approaching. Was it her step-father come to take his revenge? No, it was some manner of fish-human thing trying to calm her and convince her it was safe to breath.
To be concluded...
Re: Meghyn, the Tale of a Cut-Purse, 'GrognarLoden'
Conclusion of The Stow-A Way's Story.
Meghyn breathed at long last, more of an involuntary action than at the reassurance of the mer-creature. She was in the deep ocean water, no land visible; however her new companions, including the Captain, were there as well. She still held one of her enchanted rapiers, the second tucked tight to her opposite side. There were no more of the throwing knives, which oddly she missed having. Her studded leather armor was heavy from the water that it absorbed, but somehow she was able to swim quite well. Swim? Meghyn thought of all the times the gypsies swam in Lake Shale when their nomadic ways brought them back to that location; she was always fearful of the water, doubting that she could master the skill of staying afloat. Now, she reveled in it and was soon swimming circles around her fellows How did this come so easily to her and what were they discussing? She cared little about the later, focusing instead on the former. "I can swim! I really can, and its a delight! Who knew?"
Meghyn did realize that the mer-creature made mention of a shipwreck, the Captain made references to some 'She' coming for him if he didn't get out of the water. None of it really made sense to her, so she continued to swim, holding one of the rapiers tightly in her right hand as she did so. She searched for the empty scabbard, thinking how much faster she might swim if fully using two hands, but could not find the second scabbard. "Damn", she thought to herself, "the matched set is ruined! Bah, who needs two such fine weapons anyway, never could get the hang of wielding both at once anyway."
Her focus on the act of swimming was soon shattered as word reached her (how could she hear so clearly underwater?) that zombies were approaching. Zombies?!? It turned out that they too were little affected by the fact that they were underwater, apparently the dead, or undead had no need to breath... Eventually, another battle broke out, but her swift swimming and the ease at which she wielded the rapier underwater, combined with the slow pace of the zombies made the battle one of the easier ones that day. She and her allies emerged victorious despite the sheer number of walking corpses that came at them.
The group explored for quite some time, but eventually with little more difficulty along the way, discovered a strange vortex that perhaps mystically transported them to the shore of some strange land. Meghyn later learned this place was called Nanjing Village. Inhabited by exotic folk not entirely unlike the strange warrior woman that she now traveled with. On the shore the group discussed what to do next. Meghyn though it would be simple enough to merely 'commandeer' one of the vacant sea vessels off shore or moored to the docks, but that idea was quickly dismissed by one of the companions. "Hmm, some honor in this group. That's not entirely bad for one who travels with them is it?", she thought to herself. Eventually she agreed to seek another way of the isle on which they found themselves.
As the companions debated, Meghyn strode off in search of a merchant. She had very few coins, but considered bartering with one of the enchanted rapiers, after all, she had only one scabbard...
Thus ends the story for now, although there is a bit to tell about her walk around the village and the 'Grand Market' she eventually found, plus the little bit of Salt Peter gathering that she and a couple of the crew did out on their own...
Re: Meghyn, the Tale of a Cut-Purse, 'GrognarLoden'
Continued from 7-31-11.
Captain Marvelous informed his makeshift crew that they would be sailing to the Island of Tokaro to make a brief delivery for the Shogun. During the voyage they happened upon a ship loyal to the evil pirate... something... Meghyn couldn't recall the evil pirate's name. Another ship to ship battle commenced, but this time Meghyn (and she suspected the rest of the crew) was better prepared. She hid amongst the decking and rigging launching a volley of arrows from the small bow she acquired in barter. The others sent projectiles as well, but perhaps most devastating was the blast of mystical energy which weakened or brought down just about all the foes.
The remainder of the trip to Tokaro did not take as long as Meghyn expected and the seas were free of other vessels after that first encounter. So when the ship reached land again, the Captain pitched a tent and quickly gave us the mission details: deliver a scroll to a monk named Renkon in the monastery down the road from the docks area.
Seemed simple enough to Meghyn, so she immediately knew better, it would hardly be a simple mission. She glanced at the ground where the Captain dropped the scroll, and seeing no one retrieve it, she slipped over and picked it up for herself. She wondered at just how competent these companions would prove to be...
To be further continued...
Re: Meghyn, the Tale of a Cut-Purse, 'GrognarLoden'
Continued from above.
Meghyn struggled to recall the name of the notorious evil pirate, was it Jinni? Jimmi? Jin-Ra? Aargh!!! She could not recall, so many names and faces she tried to commit to memory as of late...
At any rate, the companions, led now by Batsu, made way for the monastery. Meghyn drew the enchanted rapier that she had kept, the one that fitted so nicely in its custom scabbard; she melded into the shadows but stayed at pace with the others while treading lightly and staying hidden as best she could. She heard one of the new ones ask about where she was and smiled curtly. The gypsy matriarch and Auntie Marie would be pleased to know that she could walk so near the others without being seen or heard.
The evil pirate must have sent forces onto the island for soon they met with some along the road. While the others charged or let fly arrows and bolts, Meghyn drew her own short bow, but before she could get off a shot she fell unconscious. Was it a spell that brought her down so quickly? She awoke with no bruises so she could eliminate a blow to the head. Soon she realized that one of the new companions had cast a sleep spell at the enemy without knowing Meghyn was in the line of her fire. Drats, the perils of being hidden from ones allies.
Still, the foes were dispatched and they were again off toward the monastery and the Monk named Renkon. They found the monastery and regrouped outside before entering. Batsu issued a warning that any who defiled the Temple would answer to her. Meghyn had no intention of getting on the bad side of the exotic woman, for she felt there was a guarded strength within the small frame, but the Mystic did not seem to take the same warning.
Inside they found Renkon and Meghyn delivered the scroll (apparently none of the party knew where it was, odd that none would be concerned until twas time to deliver it). The scroll apparently contained a plea from the Shogun, asking for the monasteries allegiance during the upcoming conflicts with the Evil Pirate... Dang, what was his name...
To be further continued below...
Re: Meghyn, the Tale of a Cut-Purse, 'GrognarLoden'
continued from above.
There was a minor disruption inside the monastery. Despite Batsu's warnings, the Mystic went and lit up his pipe. I wondered if it was a deliberate act of defiance as I've not noticed him smoking previously. Batsu shot him a stern look while talking with the Monk. The Mystic seemed to not notice, or perhaps was exhibiting some manner of defiance. Never-the-less, he continues to smoke until the Monk yelled "No smoking in the Temple!" to which the Mystic tapped the tobacco out on the floor and dispersed the ash with his boot.
I was half surprised that Batsu didn't strike at him, but I guess she didn't want to further defile the Temple. The group gathered as Meghyn again melded away into the shadows. Meghyn wondered just how daft her companions were...
The group left the Temple and were making their way back to the docks when an entirely different group of thugs came upon them...
To be further continued...
Re: Meghyn, the Tale of a Cut-Purse, 'GrognarLoden'
Continuance from tale of 7/31/11 - see previous page.
The group left the Monastery, Batsu leading the way. Meghyn was back in the mode of stealth as she followed behind. The companions made such a ruckus while traveling, perhaps they were more comfortable or even arrogant as they traveled; Meghyn was not. She was still leery of the strange land and perhaps, honestly, of any travel beyond the area surrounding Lake Shale. She knew she was not as stout as the Dwarf, nor as battle hardened as Batsu, nor as keen eyed as the Elf, nor as comfortable around death as the Mystic. Meghyn knew hiding and remaining cautious and vigilant were her personal best options.
It was that bit of vigilance that helped Meghyn first spy the brightly colored bird as Batsu and the others were debriefing with the Captain after the delivery and return. Meghyn spotted the bird near the tent which the Captain set for them. The bird seemed hungry, begging for some cracker. Meghyn searched her food pack finding only a bit of apple, which the bird did not take to. So the creature flew off to the main body of the group seeking its favored treat.
Though it was fed, it soon became apparent that the bird was no simple tropical creature. For it began conversing with Batsu, eventually issuing a warning from the exotic woman's master. Some group called the Black Lotus was nearing on Batsu and all those in her company. Batsu explained that the Black Lotus were a group of assassins sent by her sister. The group now began to debate where best to prepare for the battle that was forthcoming. The debate went on for some time (and Meghyn wondered just how much time would they have to finally prepare after the debate settled before the assassins came) but eventually it was decided that the group would make its stand from within the walled city between the docks and the Monastery.
The decision was made with no time to spare, as the first of the assassins came at the group just near the make-shift camp. Meghyn fired a volley of arrows into their midst as the others sent their respective missiles (more arrows, bolts and even mystical energy). Then the foes closed in for a full on melee exchange before the group emerged victorious. Batsu informed the others that these were perhaps fodder, sent to provide an initial distraction while the main force was readying. Batsu believed that the first batch were not meant so much as a challenge, but to eliminate the weak from Lotus. A better breed or warrior would soon find them, Batsu assured.
So with little more delay, the group rushed to the walled city and made crude preparations. The guard of the city offered their own support and the bulk of refugees retreated into the buildings. Meghyn could not help but think that things were about to get messy. She still had a few tangle traps that she crafted from bits of rope scattered about the boats they battled with on the sea, perhaps that would slow down the would-be assassins just enough to allow her companions a chance to send a few volleys of missiles into them? Meghyn even accumulate a few more bits of rope in hopes that if time permitted she could fashion a couple more such traps and lay them before the gate.
Prepared as best they could, the group stood at the ready watching the gate to the city. The sense of uncertainty grabbed them all. What were they in for? Just how potent might these Black Lotus people be? It wouldn't be long before the answers came and the battle would be engaged.
To be concluded...
Re: Meghyn, the Tale of a Cut-Purse, 'GrognarLoden'
The band of would-be Pirates prepared for the Black Lotus as best they could within the walled encampment on Tokaro. A few traps were laid at the gate, the party rested and ate while one at a time stood watch. Meghyn melded back into the dark, bow in hand, ear trained to the distance. The Mystic seemed to be preparing some spells as he isolated himself from the rest. Batsu and the others readied their weapons (or selves in some cases) while the Dwarf prepared by playing what he intended as an inspirational tune.
It was not long before the first of many waves of Black Lotus warriors hit the gates. Wave by wave the Black Lotus were defeated and sent in retreat, those who survived anyway. And though victorious, the party was increasingly weakened by each assault. Ammunition began to grow low in supply, wounds began to stack-up, and spells became diminished. Batsu and the others thought there may be no end in sight, until at long last a solitary dark-clad assassin approached her under sign of truce.
The First-Mate of the Pirate Crew met with the Black Lotus representative and after some deliberation (most likely amid several threats) the exotic lady snapped the assassin's neck in a fit of anger, frustration or displeasure to say the least. Batsu informed the rest that the Lotus would continue to haunt her and those she traveled with, but for now, the victory was theirs. They should rest and enjoy what peace they could while it lasted.
Meghyn, tending to her own wounds and bruises began to reflect on all that the Wandering has already shown her. Back with the Gypsies of Lake Shale, she would never imagine being at sea nor being caught up in a several fronted war. Evil Pirates, Black Lotus assassins from a far away land, what else would she find herself mixed in with? Well, this is what the Wandering is meant to do, though Auntie Marie never prepared her for quite this.
*** Concluded for now, another story to come in due time ***
Years ago you might have seen her mother Rebecca at the Black Dragon Inn of Port Alton. Rebecca was a well-rounded waitress in more ways than may be appropriate to mention in mixed company. Suffice it to say that Rebecca could, among other things, wait tables, cook, clean, mend linens and even tell a story or two when the traveling minstrels were 'under the weather' and the crowds wanted to be entertained.
Rebecca caught the eye of several patrons and often earned a little bit of extra for herself by providing attentive company to several of the gentlemen callers. Some of the 'Jons' were sailors passing through the port, travelers from all over Lomar, even a few nobles made their way to the Inn among the cover of night.
Rebecca told her daughter, Meghyn, that one of the most memorable patrons (and perhaps her favorite 'Jon') was a crimson clad swashbuckler who would stay at the Inn when his schedule permitted. Suave, limber and quite persuasive, this gentleman (known only as Mister Jones) managed to take his relationship with Rebecca further than any other of the patrons before.
Twas not long after that Rebecca began to swell and soon realized that she was with child. Coincidentally, Mister Jones stopped returning to the Black Dragon Inn and was not again seen in, or around, Port Alton or in fact any of Lomar. Still, months later, Rebecca gave birth to a bright-eyed girl whom she named Meghyn (after her maternal grand-mother). Alone and without the suave Mister Jones, Rebecca struggled to support herself and her newborn daughter. Eventually, she succumbed to the desires of one of the somewhat well-to-do patrons, who oft chased after Rebecca years before. Eventually Rebecca married the man, Frederick, who ran a small mobile mercantile. Rebecca had a couple other children with Frederick, before the merchant became more and more angered and disrespectful, leading to the abuse of Rebecca and later Meghyn.
As she grew to young womanhood, Meghyn became increasingly aware of Frederick's abuses; likewise Meghyn began to learn a few tricks from the patrons of the Black Dragon...
To be continued...
Re: Meghyn, the Tale of a Cut-Purse, 'GrognarLoden'
Continued from above.
In her early teen years, Meghyn realized she inherited some of her father's manual dexterity. She could flit a coin about in her hands with little to no thought. This skill helped her to procure a few coins from the patrons of the Inn while her mother worked at waiting tables. Some of the patrons taught her a few additional 'tricks' like swiping an occasional purse or remaining hidden among the deep shadowed recesses of the tavern hall.
Learning how to slip quietly and remain hidden served Meghyn well when dealing with her step-father, Frederick. Meghyn was never tolerated by her step-father as much as her two half-brothers, partly because of her shown distaste for the way Frederick treated Rebecca (in particular when the shoddy merchant has a bit too much drink).
As Frederick grew more and more abusive of her mother, Meghyn began to feel some of the abuse spill-over onto her. Frederick initially took his excess anger at a failed sale or exorbitant (in his view) cost for product, out on Meghyn. But as she began to blossom, his abuses grew to a more notorious variety...
It was this which pushed Meghyn to the brink and beyond.
Meghyn used her deft fingers, one ale soaked night, and as Frederick unlatched his belt beside her bed-mat, the would be victim slid the stiletto from her step-father's sheath and quickly slit his throat from ear to ear. Blood spilled over her, replacing the blood which he intended to spill from her spent flower. Unprepared for the horror, Meghyn cried out with the full force of her small voice. Rebecca and the half-brothers rushed in finding a partially de-pantsed Frederick slumped dead over the young woman, who quivered half in fear and half in relief.
Shocked and disoriented, Rebecca screamed, following in suit with her young daughter. Meghyn misinterpreted the scream as her mother's anger at her; and so Meghyn fled as fast as her legs could take her into the night and far far from the small room behind the Inn of Port Alton.
Meghyn ran until her legs collapsed, certain that town guards and perhaps even her mother would trail behind, readied to imprison the child for her own defense. If only she had known that Rebecca and the boys felt more open disgust at Frederick and more than just a little relief and pleasure at his being put away from their family. Even the local guard (long time patrons to the Black Dragon) were somewhat gladdened and quickly covered up the murder.
Meghyn never knew, and a fair distance from Port Alton, not far from a large lake among the wooded hills near Illium, Meghyn eventually collapsed, every bit of adrenaline exhausted from her system. She gave up on her old life and when she eventually came to, she found a new life ready to begin...
Re: Meghyn, the Tale of a Cut-Purse, 'wbjoe'
Meghyn woke up as Marvelous thrashed in his sleep. "Luca, I'm sorry! We didn't want to toss ye overboard!" The pirate captain was sweaty and shivered.
Suddenly a cold clammy hand clamped down on her arm. The room was far more familiar than Meghyn ever wanted it to be. "C'mere deary..." The stench of alcohol poured out of her stepfather's drunken maw as his weight pressed her down. Meghyn gagged, unable to breathe...
As the weight and pressure melted away...Meghyn blinked as she realized she was underwater. "Calm down", said the mermaid, "you'll be all right, just take a deep breath." Amazed, Meghyn breathed in the water as if it was air...
Then a inky-black spot in the water floated in Meghyn's direction. A rotting arm reached out and cut down the mermaid in front of her. The elf eyed the now dead mermaid with dismay. "Get away, ye cursed beast!", screamed the pirate captain at the cloud as he and the priest frantically paddled past Meghyn.
As the cloud approached, Meghyn could make out a dark figure walking slowly within it. Unable to move, she could only watch in horror as the features of the figure became more apparent. "Did you really think you could escape me?", asked Frederick, as the blood poured out of his neck, forming the ever-darkening cloud around them...
Meghyn's eyes shot wide open as a loud voice called out something unintelligible just outside the room... The foreign girl, 'Batsu-ichi' gave her a reassuring look. "It's just the sweet potato vendor, hawking his hot-baked goods. Want me to buy you one?" She smiled.
Meghyn sat up and could see the denizens of Nanjing village, busy at work early in the morning outside of their room at the inn. The strange village seemed so much safer than her dreams...
Re: Meghyn, the Tale of a Cut-Purse, 'GrognarLoden'
A Brief Afterward.
Meghyn did indeed stumble upon a rather 'Grand Market', be it divine intervention or some rare fortune that took her there. She had little coin but desired to procure some tools of her trade. She wandered about the market, speaking briefly to a few of the merchants there. Soon she found one that was interested in trade, a trap maker it turns out. She eyed the tools laid out about the merchant's stall but let the merchant make the first move.
He spotted the pair of fine rapiers and made an initial offer. Meghyn showed the merchant the one which had lost its scabbard and told a wonderfully detailed story (and I mean story...) about how the 'family heirloom' was much too valuable in a sentimental way to ever relinquish. The merchant made a second offer, much better than the first. Meghyn knew this simple trap maker had somehow gleaned the enchantment placed upon the blade. She let the matter drop, or at least seemed to do so, instead turning her attention to gathering a supply of tools and devices that she thought would aid her and her new companions. A light bag to carry much, picks for locks, basic mechanisms for snares and other concealable traps, even a fine, dry set of studded leather armor. As she reached for the small coin purse, which she knew did not contain enough coin to make such a purchase, the merchant attempted one last offer... All that she selected plus a small sum, in exchange for the rapier which lost its scabbard. He even tried a reasoned approach, stating that one might never find a suitable scabbard and she could not possibly just carry the exposed weapon everywhere she was certain to go. Taking a practiced and exaggerated sigh, Meghyn finally relented, just as she planned from the start. She even made enough coin in the deal to further procure a fine short bow, quarrel of arrows and a few of those nice throwing knives. In the end she emerged from the 'Grand Market' quite well supplied. "Still will need to 'pick up' a few more things as we go, but it's a good start. Now I can show this rag-tag band of pirates what I can really offer to their group."
She took the few remaining coins and purchased a sewing kit and a few bolts of cloth. She though back to the lessons Auntie Marie showed her and while sitting quietly near her comrades in arms, stitched together a fine hat to wear with her new dry armor. "Never hurts to look good, and the deep hue of blue lends itself to disappearing into the shadows quite well", she thought as the Dwarf approached her.
"Good Lady", the Dwarf addressed her,"care to go exploring a bit as I try to gather a few items from the rock?" Meghyn took the moment to better introduce herself to the Dwarf, whom she came to call Will (so long as he promised to drop the 'Good Lady' bit. Soon the two were off exploring, searching for caves that might contain Salt-Peter. But before they got too far from the others, the Elf (still learning names) asked to join in the exploration. Might do well to have a superb archer in the ranks as the three went off in search of caves...
And so it was that Meghyn got an opportunity to endear herself to a couple of her new associates and show them just a little of the skills she has learned. She placed traps for them to hinder their foes in the caves, did a fair bit of sneaking and scouting, even displayed that she too had some skill with a bow. Sure the Elf was a better shot, but in a battle she could certainly assist. Similarly, she learned that the Dwarf was a Minstrel of sorts and a bit of a healer too. The Elf, she learned, was handy with more than just a bow, but still she marveled at the grace with which he shot arrows into their foes. Good company too, she soon realized. Folk that she would like venturing with, she surmised.
Meghyn took some time to thank the fates, 'The Wandering' has taken her farther than she expected, and despite the struggles, she actually enjoyed the associations she was forming with the 'crew' and the adventure she somehow stumbled upon. "This just might be a grand experience to one day share around the fire when I get back to the gypsy clan."
Re: Meghyn, the Tale of a Cut-Purse, 'GrognarLoden
Conclusion of Meghyn's background story.
She doesn't remember just how long she ran, or how far, before her body finally gave out from exhaustion and she collapsed in a wooded area near a large lake. Eventually, Meghyn woke to the gentle sounds of a brightly clad woman, "Wake now dearie. There's no more reason to run. You're safe with us travelers."
In time Meghyn would come to call that woman Auntie Marie, and the nomadic gypsies that Marie traveled with, family. Safely tucked away out of view of normal Lomarian civilization, Meghyn learned to refine those skills she picked up from tavern life. In return, Meghyn helped care for the younger members of the gypsy tribe, gathered fruits and vegetables, hunted, and an array of other 'innocent' jobs (including a few forays into the more civilized areas of Lomar during the dark of night when the locals were weary from a long day and easily distracted - and thus easily relieved of some small possessions).
In the town called Renford, Meghyn cut a couple purses and gained the notice of the guild there. She was 'enticed' to join their ranks and learned a few of their secrets. This allowed her to fence a few items that the pawn brokers would have naught to do with. As a result she was able to provide a bit more for her nomadic family, including a few toys for the young-ins. All was well for the next few years for Meghyn.
That is until it was determined by the Matriarch, that it was time for Meghyn to take 'The Wandering'. And so Meghyn left the encampment (hitched and encircled in the Lake Shale region) and made her way to the place that seemed to call her most, the port city of Alton near the western coast of mainland Lomar...
Re: Meghyn, the Tale of a Cut-Purse, 'GrognarLoden'
** A Stow-A Way's Story: Meghyn's First Adventure Beyond Lomar **
The Matriarch gleaned that it was time for the young woman, Meghyn, to take what the tribe referred to as 'The Wandering'. She was to leave her second family and find a path on her own. What the road held before her would be revealed in time, the roguish woman need only follow her most basic instincts and follow one foot with the other.
Meghyn felt some compulsion to return to her childhood home to the west, back to Port Alton, where some years ago she hastily fled the home of her mother, Rebecca, her recently departed step-father Frederick, and two half-brothers (odd, she could hardly remember the boy's names). Once upon a time, the younger version of her ran completely from Alton to Shale without stopping. Now she realized just how far that journey was.
By the time she arrived at Port Alton, Meghyn was exhausted and nearly dead on her feet. She strode in the late evening dusk and came upon the docks. Most of the moored boats had some activity, save for one that was quite welcoming in its silence. Meghyn sought a bit of quiet for her slumber and not wanting to risk a return to the town tavern, she opted for the abandoned looking sloop. Meghyn relaxed underneath some loose piles of canvas and settled in for a decent nap...
To be continued...
Re: Meghyn, the Tale of a Cut-Purse, 'GrognarLoden'
Continued from A Stow-A Way's Story.
Meghyn dreamt of cool ocean breezes and the gentle swaying of waves. She had dreamed of being aboard a ship before, escaping Lomar and the life she lived with her dear sweet mother and vile, crude, abusive step-father. Yet she had not revisited those dreams since she fled to the relative safety of the gypsy camp. Perhaps it was the salt air of Port Alton's docks that stirred those dreams... Or perhaps she really was in motion, gliding among the waves far from shore???
Meghyn woke abruptly, yes, the 'abandoned ship' she selected for her nap was indeed moving. She peered out from under her stack of canvas and saw the crew pacing about. Frozen with fear she hoped to go unnoticed, but soon those fears were brought head long to light. A voice called out, "And what do we have here, a stow-away?". She heard swords drawn from their scabbards, arrows cocked in their bows, she was found out!
Slowly and carefully, Meghyn slipped from her makeshift bedding to confront her captors. 'Please good fellows, I mean no harm, I just sought a place to bed down for the night. I am at your mercy.' She frantically looked about the ship for some dark and shadowed place to slip away into, but found none, at least none that following eyes would not penetrate.
As fortune had it, the crew of the vessel were not immediately hostile, at least not towards her. It would seem that these men were on a mission of their own, and perhaps, just perhaps, this is where 'The Wandering' wanted her to go and these were the men she was to meet... So Meghyn offered her services in exchange for fare for her voyage. The dashing Captain of the boat came forward and accepted her offer, and none too soon, for just within view was their first target, another vessel just off to the port side and drawing close.
To be further continued...
Re: Meghyn, the Tale of a Cut-Purse, 'GrognarLoden'
Continued again from above.
The two ships neared one another, Meghyn could not tell which pursued which, but soon the ships were exchanging arrow fire. Meghyn had the enchanted rapiers that she 'picked up' somewhere during her life with the Lake Shale gypsies. Damn fine blades they are, but not much use over the distances they were currently fighting. One of the crewmen tossed her a few balanced throwing daggers. Meghyn flitted them in her hand getting acquainted with the weight and balance then proceeded to send them with relative ease to the combatants on the other ship. The knives struck a couple of them in the arm, one in the chest and another in the exposed part of the neck, just below the Adam's Apple.
Her fellows, on the ship she inadvertently stowed away on, sent crossbow bolts, arrows and if her eyes did not deceive her, even a few bolts of magical energy. Soon the enemy (whoever they were) were completely dispatched and my companions boarded the other ship. No booty (she remembers that term from the stories told in the old Black Dragon Inn) was found, save for more of those throwing daggers she came to like and a couple of other odds and ends.
Meghyn sighed in relief, she had survived her first full adventuring battle, with few marks or bruises, and her fellows came through similarly unscathed. Unfortunately, the next ship to ship confrontation would not go as well for the fearless crew...
To be further continued...
Re: Meghyn, the Tale of a Cut-Purse, 'GrognarLoden'
Continued from above.
It wasn't till the second ship came into view that Meghyn noticed the flag that flew on the bow of the ship she was now aboard. The patrons of the old tavern referred to the design as 'Jolly Roger', the mark of a pirate; black background with white skull and crossed bones. That would somewhat explain why the 'crew' did not seem to view her with much more trepidation than each other. As they drew closer to the second ship, Meghyn noticed that the others, aboard the ship she was on, did not exhibit much familiarity with one another, or even their Captain for that matter. All in all, it was a rather ramshackle crew.
She had not taken the time to study the others, though she knew she must. There was a peculiar Dwarf, a bit less stocky than those she saw sailing to and from Portsmith; he was no miner she surmised, and doubted he was much of fighter either. There was an exotic lady, a bit more mysterious than the others, who had the look of what some passers-through described of the refuge on the Isle of Tokaro. There was a strange mystic, Elven perhaps but she was not certain as she never truly laid eyes on an Elf (she had often though of visiting the shop owned by the bowyer, Lemay, but was always somewhat afraid of the immortal folk). An archer with more noticeable fine features that she though must indeed be Elven, and the way the arrows flew from his bow amazed her to no end, such grace and ease, it was like a natural extension of his limbs. And then there was their Captain... Strong in appearance, but charismatic in demeanor, still he was a mystery to her; as truthfully they all were.
Before she realized the two ships were close enough to lock in battle, again she had no bearings to determine which ship approached which. She had a full compliment of the finely weighted and balanced knives which she steadied point first in her delicate hands before flinging into the flesh of what she determined must be an enemy. When she allowed herself, she wandered which side she was truly on; ultimately, she did not care, for her survival seemed to rest within the hands of her shipmates so that was the side she would support.
This battle raged and she noticed that her companions were running low on ammunition yet more of the 'foes' came onto the deck of the enemy ship. Scrambling for missiles of any sort, the 'crew' of the ship she was on began to fall in pain from their wounds. Her last knife thrown, Meghyn grabbed a piece of loose rigging from the other ship and swung over to the other ship where one or two of her shipmates now fought in close quarters. With one of the enchanted rapiers in hand, Meghyn slashed and stabbed at the enemy. Unfortunately, the butt of the hilt from an enemy's sword caught her on the back of the head and she fell to unconsciousness.
She woke with the mystic sputtering something about death and knowing its course standing nearby either praying or spell-casting as another shipmate roused from his slumber. Uncertain whether she was magically healed (she hardly believed in such things despite the claims of those from the tavern who claimed to be healed by the Avarian priests) or had she simply come back to consciousness of her own. Either way, the bruises were painful reminders that she did not fare too well in this last battle. Few of the crew appeared any better, and, as it turned out, neither did the ship. It was sinking...
Dizzy from all the fighting and all the wounds she suffered, Meghyn wasn't completely sure if it was only two enemy ships they tangled with or if there was a third or fourth mixed in among all the fighting. She never claimed to be much of a fighter, typically escaping confrontations by hiding and fleeing when the odds got to great. Meghyn wasn't able to hide and flee in the mid day sun aboard the ships when no land was visible. No land visible! Gasp! The ship they were on was sinking... the dizziness returned greater than before and when she again came to, Meghyn found herself under water with something or someone approaching. Was it her step-father come to take his revenge? No, it was some manner of fish-human thing trying to calm her and convince her it was safe to breath.
To be concluded...
Re: Meghyn, the Tale of a Cut-Purse, 'GrognarLoden'
Conclusion of The Stow-A Way's Story.
Meghyn breathed at long last, more of an involuntary action than at the reassurance of the mer-creature. She was in the deep ocean water, no land visible; however her new companions, including the Captain, were there as well. She still held one of her enchanted rapiers, the second tucked tight to her opposite side. There were no more of the throwing knives, which oddly she missed having. Her studded leather armor was heavy from the water that it absorbed, but somehow she was able to swim quite well. Swim? Meghyn thought of all the times the gypsies swam in Lake Shale when their nomadic ways brought them back to that location; she was always fearful of the water, doubting that she could master the skill of staying afloat. Now, she reveled in it and was soon swimming circles around her fellows How did this come so easily to her and what were they discussing? She cared little about the later, focusing instead on the former. "I can swim! I really can, and its a delight! Who knew?"
Meghyn did realize that the mer-creature made mention of a shipwreck, the Captain made references to some 'She' coming for him if he didn't get out of the water. None of it really made sense to her, so she continued to swim, holding one of the rapiers tightly in her right hand as she did so. She searched for the empty scabbard, thinking how much faster she might swim if fully using two hands, but could not find the second scabbard. "Damn", she thought to herself, "the matched set is ruined! Bah, who needs two such fine weapons anyway, never could get the hang of wielding both at once anyway."
Her focus on the act of swimming was soon shattered as word reached her (how could she hear so clearly underwater?) that zombies were approaching. Zombies?!? It turned out that they too were little affected by the fact that they were underwater, apparently the dead, or undead had no need to breath... Eventually, another battle broke out, but her swift swimming and the ease at which she wielded the rapier underwater, combined with the slow pace of the zombies made the battle one of the easier ones that day. She and her allies emerged victorious despite the sheer number of walking corpses that came at them.
The group explored for quite some time, but eventually with little more difficulty along the way, discovered a strange vortex that perhaps mystically transported them to the shore of some strange land. Meghyn later learned this place was called Nanjing Village. Inhabited by exotic folk not entirely unlike the strange warrior woman that she now traveled with. On the shore the group discussed what to do next. Meghyn though it would be simple enough to merely 'commandeer' one of the vacant sea vessels off shore or moored to the docks, but that idea was quickly dismissed by one of the companions. "Hmm, some honor in this group. That's not entirely bad for one who travels with them is it?", she thought to herself. Eventually she agreed to seek another way of the isle on which they found themselves.
As the companions debated, Meghyn strode off in search of a merchant. She had very few coins, but considered bartering with one of the enchanted rapiers, after all, she had only one scabbard...
Thus ends the story for now, although there is a bit to tell about her walk around the village and the 'Grand Market' she eventually found, plus the little bit of Salt Peter gathering that she and a couple of the crew did out on their own...
Re: Meghyn, the Tale of a Cut-Purse, 'GrognarLoden'
Continued from 7-31-11.
Captain Marvelous informed his makeshift crew that they would be sailing to the Island of Tokaro to make a brief delivery for the Shogun. During the voyage they happened upon a ship loyal to the evil pirate... something... Meghyn couldn't recall the evil pirate's name. Another ship to ship battle commenced, but this time Meghyn (and she suspected the rest of the crew) was better prepared. She hid amongst the decking and rigging launching a volley of arrows from the small bow she acquired in barter. The others sent projectiles as well, but perhaps most devastating was the blast of mystical energy which weakened or brought down just about all the foes.
The remainder of the trip to Tokaro did not take as long as Meghyn expected and the seas were free of other vessels after that first encounter. So when the ship reached land again, the Captain pitched a tent and quickly gave us the mission details: deliver a scroll to a monk named Renkon in the monastery down the road from the docks area.
Seemed simple enough to Meghyn, so she immediately knew better, it would hardly be a simple mission. She glanced at the ground where the Captain dropped the scroll, and seeing no one retrieve it, she slipped over and picked it up for herself. She wondered at just how competent these companions would prove to be...
To be further continued...
Re: Meghyn, the Tale of a Cut-Purse, 'GrognarLoden'
Continued from above.
Meghyn struggled to recall the name of the notorious evil pirate, was it Jinni? Jimmi? Jin-Ra? Aargh!!! She could not recall, so many names and faces she tried to commit to memory as of late...
At any rate, the companions, led now by Batsu, made way for the monastery. Meghyn drew the enchanted rapier that she had kept, the one that fitted so nicely in its custom scabbard; she melded into the shadows but stayed at pace with the others while treading lightly and staying hidden as best she could. She heard one of the new ones ask about where she was and smiled curtly. The gypsy matriarch and Auntie Marie would be pleased to know that she could walk so near the others without being seen or heard.
The evil pirate must have sent forces onto the island for soon they met with some along the road. While the others charged or let fly arrows and bolts, Meghyn drew her own short bow, but before she could get off a shot she fell unconscious. Was it a spell that brought her down so quickly? She awoke with no bruises so she could eliminate a blow to the head. Soon she realized that one of the new companions had cast a sleep spell at the enemy without knowing Meghyn was in the line of her fire. Drats, the perils of being hidden from ones allies.
Still, the foes were dispatched and they were again off toward the monastery and the Monk named Renkon. They found the monastery and regrouped outside before entering. Batsu issued a warning that any who defiled the Temple would answer to her. Meghyn had no intention of getting on the bad side of the exotic woman, for she felt there was a guarded strength within the small frame, but the Mystic did not seem to take the same warning.
Inside they found Renkon and Meghyn delivered the scroll (apparently none of the party knew where it was, odd that none would be concerned until twas time to deliver it). The scroll apparently contained a plea from the Shogun, asking for the monasteries allegiance during the upcoming conflicts with the Evil Pirate... Dang, what was his name...
To be further continued below...
Re: Meghyn, the Tale of a Cut-Purse, 'GrognarLoden'
continued from above.
There was a minor disruption inside the monastery. Despite Batsu's warnings, the Mystic went and lit up his pipe. I wondered if it was a deliberate act of defiance as I've not noticed him smoking previously. Batsu shot him a stern look while talking with the Monk. The Mystic seemed to not notice, or perhaps was exhibiting some manner of defiance. Never-the-less, he continues to smoke until the Monk yelled "No smoking in the Temple!" to which the Mystic tapped the tobacco out on the floor and dispersed the ash with his boot.
I was half surprised that Batsu didn't strike at him, but I guess she didn't want to further defile the Temple. The group gathered as Meghyn again melded away into the shadows. Meghyn wondered just how daft her companions were...
The group left the Temple and were making their way back to the docks when an entirely different group of thugs came upon them...
To be further continued...
Re: Meghyn, the Tale of a Cut-Purse, 'GrognarLoden'
Continuance from tale of 7/31/11 - see previous page.
The group left the Monastery, Batsu leading the way. Meghyn was back in the mode of stealth as she followed behind. The companions made such a ruckus while traveling, perhaps they were more comfortable or even arrogant as they traveled; Meghyn was not. She was still leery of the strange land and perhaps, honestly, of any travel beyond the area surrounding Lake Shale. She knew she was not as stout as the Dwarf, nor as battle hardened as Batsu, nor as keen eyed as the Elf, nor as comfortable around death as the Mystic. Meghyn knew hiding and remaining cautious and vigilant were her personal best options.
It was that bit of vigilance that helped Meghyn first spy the brightly colored bird as Batsu and the others were debriefing with the Captain after the delivery and return. Meghyn spotted the bird near the tent which the Captain set for them. The bird seemed hungry, begging for some cracker. Meghyn searched her food pack finding only a bit of apple, which the bird did not take to. So the creature flew off to the main body of the group seeking its favored treat.
Though it was fed, it soon became apparent that the bird was no simple tropical creature. For it began conversing with Batsu, eventually issuing a warning from the exotic woman's master. Some group called the Black Lotus was nearing on Batsu and all those in her company. Batsu explained that the Black Lotus were a group of assassins sent by her sister. The group now began to debate where best to prepare for the battle that was forthcoming. The debate went on for some time (and Meghyn wondered just how much time would they have to finally prepare after the debate settled before the assassins came) but eventually it was decided that the group would make its stand from within the walled city between the docks and the Monastery.
The decision was made with no time to spare, as the first of the assassins came at the group just near the make-shift camp. Meghyn fired a volley of arrows into their midst as the others sent their respective missiles (more arrows, bolts and even mystical energy). Then the foes closed in for a full on melee exchange before the group emerged victorious. Batsu informed the others that these were perhaps fodder, sent to provide an initial distraction while the main force was readying. Batsu believed that the first batch were not meant so much as a challenge, but to eliminate the weak from Lotus. A better breed or warrior would soon find them, Batsu assured.
So with little more delay, the group rushed to the walled city and made crude preparations. The guard of the city offered their own support and the bulk of refugees retreated into the buildings. Meghyn could not help but think that things were about to get messy. She still had a few tangle traps that she crafted from bits of rope scattered about the boats they battled with on the sea, perhaps that would slow down the would-be assassins just enough to allow her companions a chance to send a few volleys of missiles into them? Meghyn even accumulate a few more bits of rope in hopes that if time permitted she could fashion a couple more such traps and lay them before the gate.
Prepared as best they could, the group stood at the ready watching the gate to the city. The sense of uncertainty grabbed them all. What were they in for? Just how potent might these Black Lotus people be? It wouldn't be long before the answers came and the battle would be engaged.
To be concluded...
Re: Meghyn, the Tale of a Cut-Purse, 'GrognarLoden'
The band of would-be Pirates prepared for the Black Lotus as best they could within the walled encampment on Tokaro. A few traps were laid at the gate, the party rested and ate while one at a time stood watch. Meghyn melded back into the dark, bow in hand, ear trained to the distance. The Mystic seemed to be preparing some spells as he isolated himself from the rest. Batsu and the others readied their weapons (or selves in some cases) while the Dwarf prepared by playing what he intended as an inspirational tune.
It was not long before the first of many waves of Black Lotus warriors hit the gates. Wave by wave the Black Lotus were defeated and sent in retreat, those who survived anyway. And though victorious, the party was increasingly weakened by each assault. Ammunition began to grow low in supply, wounds began to stack-up, and spells became diminished. Batsu and the others thought there may be no end in sight, until at long last a solitary dark-clad assassin approached her under sign of truce.
The First-Mate of the Pirate Crew met with the Black Lotus representative and after some deliberation (most likely amid several threats) the exotic lady snapped the assassin's neck in a fit of anger, frustration or displeasure to say the least. Batsu informed the rest that the Lotus would continue to haunt her and those she traveled with, but for now, the victory was theirs. They should rest and enjoy what peace they could while it lasted.
Meghyn, tending to her own wounds and bruises began to reflect on all that the Wandering has already shown her. Back with the Gypsies of Lake Shale, she would never imagine being at sea nor being caught up in a several fronted war. Evil Pirates, Black Lotus assassins from a far away land, what else would she find herself mixed in with? Well, this is what the Wandering is meant to do, though Auntie Marie never prepared her for quite this.
*** Concluded for now, another story to come in due time ***
