Medieval Madness

[intriguess]

The auguries agreed, that it was the perfect time to catch a Unicorn, soemthing about the alignment of the moons or such rubbish. It was all nonsense to those who had hunted for such creatures before. Yet at the same time it seemed a good reason to start the hunt again, as sightings had increased and information that the unicorn possessed strange magical properties as well as rumored to be a source of eternal youth lingered in the air. Summons were sent for the best hunters, and more than one leader sent out hunters.

(so this way you can work out if you are solo hunter or going in a tracking party)

Other interested parties also sent out their best, some to defend the creature, others to investigate it, perhaps capture it. And so there came a Knight, and others, to join the elusive hunt.

The forrest in question was beyond the realm of any kingdom and therefore no one ruler had authority, which pleased and irritated more than one who wanted the Unicorn. Some summons said "Dead or Alive, preferrably Alive" while others said, "Dead or Alive, preferably Dead."





The forrest was quiet as if the wind had suddenly changed. She lifted her head and listened to the sounds that remained. She was not frightened having no concept of danger, but the sky seemed omenous today and with a shimmer of color, Valondra shifted to human form. She was skyclad, and having seen enough humans to know about clothing she located her small cache of clothes and dressed.

 

[Tvayumat]

His Lord commanded, and so he followed. Claims that such a creature was of beauty, that the hunt was an act of evil, that it must be preserved, he heard not. His Lord commanded that the beast be brought before him, and so he followed. He rode from the keep the very day it was commanded, he rode forth with black plate glinting in the morning sunlight, he rode with shifting cape flown behind him, he rode with the fearsome visage of a demon's head. His mount flew like the wind, it's great legs a blur of black. His first task, to locate the beast, and then the hunt would begin. At sundown he rode before a waystation, not much more than a tavern and a stable, as good a place as any to begin. Dismounting, he tied his horse to a post and approached the door, noting the tavern name, "The Prancing Unicorn." He chuckled in his mind, for he never chuckled aloud. He swung the wooden door open with one gauntleted fist, and surveyed the bar, all conversation paused. His other hand raised to his face, and lifted away his fearsome helm, letting his dark blonde hair free to hang to the top of his neck.

 

[intriguess]

The Prancing Unicorn

The tavern had a few locals, as it was slightly out of the way, but it was on the beaten path and received decent traffic. The innkeep was a robust older man who had almost as much grease in his beard as he did on his apron. He listened to gossip and tales and in turn passed on what he knew. Information was good for business he knew. His mouth turned down at the newcomer, he would undoubtedly not be good for business. He approached him and prepared to take care of his needs as quickly as possible.

 

[Firegirl976]

Raven

From the back of the tavern I watch legs stretched out and crossed on the table as the stranger with the odd helmet walks in. My eyes widen slightly when he removes it, "A demon here?". I see the Inn keeper scurry over worry evident on his face and tune my ears to the converstion as I take another drink of mead. Focusing my gift I exclude all voices and conversaton in the background centering in on the oddly appealing man that seems to scare the humans so. My hood I know hides my identity and my figure, so thinking myself safe enough I continue to appear relaxed as I watch.

 

[Phoenix_05]

Marcas aproched the inn. There would undoubtedly be others in search of the unicorn here. Perhaps he could join a band of them to share the likely hood of finding the creature.

He took on the form of a young knight, long blonde hair cascading over his silver armor. It was all an illusion of corse. The armor was mearly his robe, and would not repel a blade any better that it should. He tuned his staff into a sword at his belt, and with Talon (his phoenix) on his shoulder, he stepped inside.

 

[Tvayumat]

As he walked to the bar of the tavern, those he passed grew quiet and watched. Partially because of the serious, humorless attitude that followed the large man, but mostly because of the sense of foreboding brought on by his ornate armor. It looked to have cost a king's ransom in gold, every inch of plate was covered in what appeared to be lines of runic symbols, tracing sharp, tribal shapes. His shoulderplates were adorned with eyes, some appearing human, some of unknown origin, staring outward always. His gauntlets and greaves looked almost organic, as though the flesh of some twisted abominable creature had hardened to black steel. The tips of his gauntlets ended in short, but wickedly sharp metal claws, which he now used to tap impatiently on the wooden counter of the bar. He set his helm beside him, it's visage that of a screaming demon, it's lips curled back to reveal sharp fangs. He waited for the innkeeper to approach and dropped a silver coin into his hand. "Ale" he spoke to the barkeep, and he rushed off to get it. With that he turned and dropped a handful of glittering golden coins on the counter. He spoke with a voice that seemed to slither through people's ears.

"I seek information about a beast known as the "Unicorn", providers of useful information will be handsomely rewarded."

 

[Phoenix_05]

"It's a creature of great power," Marcus responded as he entered the door. "And it looks as if it is much sought after by many for quite a few reasons." He added as he walked to the bar. "What reason would a dark soul like yourself have with it good Sir Knight?"

 

[Tvayumat]

Telereth Veratha

He looked the newcomer over, he appeared to be a young man of pleasant disposition, long blonde hair, shining armor, but the image did not seem right to him. A small shimmer of light danced across the man's face, almost too subtle to notice. 'A mage, this one could be useful' He thought to himself.

"My Lord commands that the beast be brought before him, his reasons are his own, and not for me to question. What know you of this beast, traveler?"

 

[Phoenix_05]

"My lord has quite a liking toward rare and powerful creatures. He has such a collection that he gives them as gifts to his favored servents; Hence my Talon here." Talon at the sound of his name flared up a bit, warming Marcus's neck nicely. "My lord has sent me to investigate rumors of a unicorn. He has one already and may want to breed, if indeed it be the right gender."

The lie had been thought out in advance. Marcus would rather not have many know of his true calling. Not every one is a fan of those that wield magic. Besides, he didn't want any probing questions about what his experimentations with the unicorn could entail...

 

[Tvayumat]

Telereth Veratha

He raised one eyebrow at hearing the story of the mage.

"Interesting, and have you discovered any clues as to the beast's whereabouts?"

 

[Phoenix_05]

"I've only just gotten here myself, so no, I haven't. The only thing I know is that rumor has it that it resides in the forest somewhere. My bet would be in some sort of glade."

A strong warrior might make a good companion. He could use a strong arm if competition for the creature arrises. Of corse a bargain must be struck if anything is to work.

He felt a tap on his sholdure from Talon. The phoenix's head was turned toward the tables at which many of the patrons were sitting. Something was amiss. Marcus soon realized what it was.
"Perhaps we should ask the young lady who is taking quite an intrest in our conversation if she knows anything."

 

[Firegirl976]

Raven

I grin slightly under my hood realizing that the phoenix has divulged my identity and as I push back my hood revealing both my smile and my slight fangs I raise my mug. "Come join me......". I stand my full six feet and nod at the phoenix as well as the men, "Perhaps we all have something useful to t he other...." I pause a moment glancing knowingly at both the mage and the halfling.....again the smile caressing my features, "It seems we all have things that are best discussed quietly...yes?" THat said I briefly send a mental caress to the bird, thanking him for gaining his masters attention.

 

[Phoenix_05]

"Not amid other prying ears my lady" Marcus replied with a short, graceful bow. He hailed the tavern keeper and set some silver on the counter. "I'll take your largest room for the night. My companions and I are not to be disturbed."

Marcus turned to the intriguing woman witht he fangs "Come, we may discuss this in my room. Oh!" he said quickly turning to the tavern owner, still counting the silver. "And send up a bottle of your finest wine, there should be enough there for that as well."

"Right, lets get to it then" he said ascending the stairs with the key that the owner had given him, gesturing for the other two to come with him.

 

[intriguess]

the prancing unicorn

The innkeep wisely kept his thoughts to himself, brought a pitcher of ale (not the watered down stuff) and left the odd band of adventurers to talk amongst themselves.


(as the thread starter I will occasionally take on a role of a NPC to move story along, feel free to use NPC's as needed)






Valandra, the night was chilly as she stepped lightly along the forrest floor. It was odd to not hear the thoughts of her animal friends. Instead she was seeking out the nearest humans. Her feet were perfect, despite the fact that she wore no shoes, her silver hair covered for moment by a hooded cloak she had acquired from a frightened traveller in exchange for leading him out of the forrest.

There were many other things in the forrest that were not so naive as Valandra and many a wary hunter had found themself facing more than just peaceful critters.

 

[Firegirl976]

RAven

I nod slightly at the mage then turn to the halfling, "What say you warrior?" I look at him measuringly almost eye to eye, knowing it must be an unfamiliar feeling for him to meet a female of his stature. I keep my cloak closed so no one can see my body or the weapons I carry and eagerly lick my lips as we await his reply.

 

[Vibro repairman]

Darris tied the last loop of his jerkin, and picked up his lyre, made from ivory and moonwood. He had been staying at the Prancing Unicorn for near on a week, and his music had been his pay to the innkeeper, entertaining the other patrons and guests. It was time to earn his keep again.

Making his way downstairs, a tune already playing in his mind, he glanced over the common room, noting the unusual group present as he made his way to the small raised platform in one corner. He made his usual bow to the room before seating himself on the stool there. He wore his favoured forest-green jerkin and leggings with silver brocade, and fine deerskin boots.

"Ladies and gentles, I bid you fair welcome and hope the day finds you well at the Prancing Unicorn. For those new amongst us, I am Darris Silverbranch, pleased to be here for your entertainment." His fingers were already plucking lightly at the strings of his lyre, sending a quiet melodious tune about the room.

"My first song tonight is entitled My sweetheart's dainty lips..."

Nimble fingers began to dance over the strings of his lyre now in earnest, sending the tune proper sweeping about the inn, as his voice sang out,

"My sweetheart's dainty lips are red,
With ruby's crimson overspread;
Her teeth are like a string of pearls;
Down her neck her clustering curls
In ebony hue vie with the night,
And over her features dances light.

The twinkling stars enthroned above
Are sisters to my dearest love.
We men should count it joy complete
To lay our service at her feet.
But oh what rapture is her kiss!
A forecast 'tis of heavenly bliss!"

 

[Tvayumat]

Telereth Veratha

He eyed the changeling as she stood, noting her grace and stature, he began mentally undressing her, imagining her body beneath her cloak, then mentally chastised himself. It was difficult, having the voice of a demon constantly whispering it's lustful desires in your ear, and he had fought long and hard to tame that side of himself. He looked to the mage, then to the changeling again, and nodded solemly, he took up his helm in one hand, then dug the claws of his gauntlet into the countertop, scooping up his gold and leaving deep gouges in the wood. He followed the other two to the stairs, tossing a few gold at the bard who had begun playing in the corner. He had a certain soft spot for bards, something few would guess, his human brother had been a bard, but that was long ago. And so they entered the largest room in the inn, which was little more than a largish bedroom with a circular table and several chairs, he set his helm on the table, and awaited the beginning of this discussion.

 

[Phoenix_05]

"Well I guess there's no need for this front any longer" Marcus said as he pulled at the edge of his "armor." The effect was the sight of metal being pulled like a cloak, covering his head and the rest of his body. When it settled, he appeared as he should. His normal form appeared not that much older than his facade. He looked to be only in his mid thirties, although he was really much, much older. He had short, black hair and a gotee. He was now garbed in an elegant black robe with crimson trimmings and a rope belt at his hip, strung through it were several pouches containing ingredients for potions or spell tools. Hidden in the inner pockets were more powerful magical items. In his left hand was a smooth ebony staff, topped with a large ruby to focus it's power. Marcus had, infact, bought his robe to match his staff.

Talon had fluttered to the table when Marcus had moved to shift his appearence, and was now pecking at the table for a scrap of bread. Looking around with little interest, but infact, he was alert as ever, keeping an ear open to anyone who would intrude.

Marcus smiled at his soon-to-be companions. "My name is Marcus, and this is my friend, Talon. We are here to learn more about the unicorn, that I may study it's magic, and perhaps learn to copy it in some manner. Now then, who are you?"

 

[Vibro repairman]

Darris's deep green eyes momentarily flicked to the gold coins that clattered at the foot of the stage, thrown there by the dark armoured warrior. More than he had earned from the commonfolk the last few days - the man with the demon-helm held in the crook of his arm was obviously a man of means. The company he had with him - a tall, cloaked woman, and a brightly armoured knight, also made it clear they were not here for the ale, which was admitedly pretty good. And that peaked Darris' curiousity.

However, that could wait. He still had to finish his evenings entertaining, so after the light applause and clatter of lesser coins faded he continued into his next song, a cheery tale of a humble peasantfolk man and his beloved.

 

[Firegirl976]

Raven

I nod in again look to the halfling sensing his thoughts and turn away as I remove my cloak with a flourish laying it gently on the bed. I remove a pin from my hair and allow the braid to fall down my back, then turn back to my companions. I notice shock on the mages face, and curiosity on that of the halflings. My green and beige garb is the perfect blend to hide me in the forest and lovingly hugs my body as I move. The knives I have attatched to my arms and legs are obvious but to the naked eye there is no way to see the other weapons and artifacts I have hidden in my cloak. My medallion carved from moonstone and set in silver rests between my ample breasts, a great cat the symbol of my family carved into it. I reach into my cloak and remove a pouch and taking out some jasmine blossoms turn back to the others. "Your friend appears hungry mage, if I may offer talon something more than bread?". The room is dimly lit and I alter my eyes, the pupils becoming slitted and dialated to allow more light.

 

[Phoenix_05]

Marcus watches in a slight daze as the changling takes off her cloak and undoes her braid. Talon sees her aswell, and sends a knowing look at Marcus. Talon knows all too well what a lovely girl can do to his master. Her words snap him out of his daze, and he covers by apologizing. "Sorry, I was looking at the medalion around your neck. Moonstone isn't it?" Yah, the medallion conveniently placed between what he was really looking at. "I'm sure Talon would love some bread."

Talon looked at him with the same look he had given him many times before. A look that just said: "Keep your head." Marcus had no need to fear any man with a sword, and he had little to fear from even the greatest magi, but his one weakness was being flaunted in his face now. He was putty to a beutiful woman.

 

[Tvayumat]

Telereth

As the changeling removed her cloak and turned to face the men, his primal side took over once more. His eyes flashed briefly with a demonic fire, and drank in her form, savoring every curve of her undeniably attractive body. Her feline grace duly noted, filed, and lusted over. With a snap he brought himself back from his demonic lust. With unfeeling eyes he noted her strong stance, her well muscled body, and confident air. He noted several obvious weapons attached at strategic points, no doubt she concealed several other weapons about her person, she instilled in him a respect reserved for few. He unconsciously dragged the metallic claws of his left gauntlet across the rough wood of the table.

"Your familiar is not the subject of this meeting, mage. You would have me believe that you posess information pertaining the location of this one-horned beast, I would have that information."

 

[Firegirl976]

Raven

SMiling softly at the mage I nod and turn my attention to Talon, "For you my friend.......for I know bread is not what you crave." I set the petals on the table my gaze returning to Marcus, "Yes moonstone, rainbow moonstone actually." then going to the warrior. "And you warrior??" I smile at him as I reverse a chair and focus my violet and amber gaze onto his eyes, "Do you have a name?" I seat myself straddling the chair and grinning at him, thinking them both handsome but there is a darkness in this one that calls to the darkness in me. "There is no harm in sharing that much with us."

 

[Phoenix_05]

"Actually, Talon is very pertinent to our meeting. You see, I don't actually know where the unicorn is, and I can't find it. But Talon can. he has the ability to sense onther magical creatures, and will have no trouble in locating this one." Talon puffed with pride.

Marcus had their attention, and he baited his lure. "I will soon have the information that we require, but I'm not in the habit of giving charity. In return, I need to know who you are, what you want with the unicorn, and I'll need a gaurd while I do what I need with it." Marcus gave a sly smile to the knight and the changling. Both appeared strong enough to fulfill his requirements. "Do we have a deal?"

 

[Firegirl976]

Raven

Tearing her eyes away from the halfling she listened intently to the mage, purring softly in the back of her throat. She glanced towards talon, then back to the mage. "A deal??" , "Perhaps the warrior needs your help but what akes you think I do mage??"