FYI: Anyone have time for a quest? I will also be posting a recruitment in both Kellen and Istan later on. People who are recruited one place are not required to post in the other two. Only ARPers (or higher) please, as we will be heading to the Dragonspine Mountains for treasure and untold wealth! And finding some! Really!
The way this will work is:

• I will post once a week or every three posts (whichever comes first) unless requested to do otherwise.
• You may join the thread at any time, aka you do not have to join at the beginning.
• Also, you may only post once between each of my posts.
• If you are skipped, you can still post later on. If you want me to wait for you to post, you have to let me know.
• If anyone has any questions, please PM me about it! Thank you! ^_^

And now we begin…

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Ornell had made an interesting discovery. It had taken a long time and a lot of work and research to find out, but now... now she was sure of it. She could see that the city of Istan, the wonderful little city so close to her temple, was not as busy as it had been. Why was a puzzle to her. The place did well enough, but there were signs that it had been more then it was now.

Then she had heard mention, mention of a wonderful assortment of things that had once come from further north, further then the Dwarven Cities and even the Dragonspine Mountains themselves. Now, she could just go up there on her own and find out what it really was, but she was very sure of what she would find. So, instead, she decided to make it interesting. That meant not going alone. That meant... A Quest!

Ornell had picked this very place because she had not been here as a deity. The people here would not know she was an Avatar. Here, she was going to be a Dragon Rider and she had dressed the part well, temporarily trading in her more simple bardic armor for one that was done in a scale pattern from silver to deep gold and then red on the farthest edge of each scale. She had her hair swept back and twisted with many mismatched hair sticks pinning it in place. Valen had even agreed to be her dragon for this. He found it amusing that she wanted to do things this way, but as long as no harm was done then nether of them found a cause to not let it play out.

So when she entered the tavern she paused to look around. Her slightly glowing red eyes scanned around the main room. It wasn’t too busy yet, but it wasn’t quite dinnertime yet, or drinking hour. Ornell was early for that crowed, but she wanted it that way. She wanted to be here when the type of people she would need to create an adventuring party decided to show. Also, this wasn’t her last stop. She had two more cities and no doubt a few more taverns she could visit in order to gather a useful group together.

She moved over to the bar and rested her elbows on the counter top. “White wine or mead. If you have something local I would like to try it.” She said. The barkeep nodded and returned with a goblet filled with a soft golden liquid. She placed a coin on the counter with one hand as she took the glass with the other. The barkeep looked at the gold coin and placed his hand over it casually. He raised an eyebrow at her.

Ornall smiled. “I’m looking for some different sorts, some who may be interested in an adventure in the mountains. If you know or recognize any, send them my way.” She then pushed herself of the counter and wove her way between a few who had drunken too much already. She found an empty table set back from the stage and sat down with her back to the wall and the entire tavern before her. ‘Time to wait and see.’ She thought to herself and took a sip of her wine. It was slightly sweet and smelled of fruit and honey. It was a local mead obviously. Ornell smiled and took another sip.

When be became a Paladin, it was all adventure and fun. But Rothardan had become responsible for many things now that he truly did understand what a Paladin was all about. Now he had a god to follow, a goal to achieve and expectations to arise to. And the Paladin wouldn't have it any other way, for now he felt like he had something to look at and something to aim for. And yet. A deep unease was within the Paladin as he was walking through the streets of Cascadia with nothing to do. Rothardan missed the days when he was adventuring as a young boy and longed to have one more adventure before he was part of the Lux Lucis Censura and helping more people than ever.

Perhaps someone was watching over him at that point, because a couple of people ran past him geared up in leather armour and swords, running towards a large inn named 'The Broken Strings'. They were muttering something about someone advertising for adventure and riches. Rothardan smiled and decided to follow the two adventurers as they entered the inn. Around the Paladin, there were sounds of chatting and talking as everyone was discussing the adventure. Rothardan looked around and saw a figure of powerful composure, a woman who looked like she was a dragonrider of some sort as she was dressed in the usual garb.

Rothardan lent against the wall of the inn and listened with great interest to what was going on. It turned out there was some sort of adventure going in the mountains that this dragon rider needed help with. At the moment, Rothardan kept silent and waited for more information, for there was plenty of things in the mountains that could arouse an adventurers tastes, gold and jewels and rare weapons etc. What was this dragon rider after?

Cascadia. One of the places Sava rarely visits. She can't even remember the last time she was here, but she knew she had been here once, even if she can't remember when that was. But, she didn't care much about that, she just loved the beauty of the place. She admired the people who made this place. The buildings were wonderful, and she almost wished she had made her home like the grand houses here. And she loved the music. She had always loved listening to bards sing in tavern at times, when she had nothing else to do. She would have to play her flute one day, if she could remember how to.

She grimaced a little, as she thought about that, then smiled slightly.

She wore her simple traveling clothes, with leather armor over it. Long knee-high boots. And gloves over her hands. And then a small bag hung at her side. One blade was on each side, one, was her lightning blade, the other was her air blade. Then, on her back was her glaive. She looked prepared for battle, or anything. She was just actually traveling about again, and always prepared. She was one who never liked being taken by surprise.

She held unto to reins, which led to her horse she was leading. And the last thing was her fly dragon, Blackquill, who was curled up on Sava's shoulder.

Sava walked down a long street of the city, Cascadia. Along the street, she heard music rafting up from the buildings, and cheerful chatter. She always liked to know that there were people who were happy, and quite carefree, she wish she was like that, she was always worried about things, and annoyed about some, and most things.

She walked towards the tavern, seeing a couple people going in, and seeming to be excited. She glanced at a knight, who seemed familiar, but she couldn't place where she had seen him before. She led her horse to a post, where horses were meant to be tied to, and she did so. There was a trough near, and Jenna, went straight to drink the water, tired from the journey.

Sava went inside then, and went to the counter. She leaned against it heavily, and tried to think of what she felt like to drink. After a few moments, she called the bartender over. "Just get me some... elven wine..." She said, in a calm voice. The bartender left for a moment or so, and came back soon and gave Sava her drink, and gave her a odd look before he left. She cocked her head slightly, and smirked slightly. This person hadn't seen her before, therefore, finding the woman very strange.

She turned around, and saw something that caught her eye. She quickly looked over, and saw the dragonrider. Who was very familiar. Smiling, she took a drink of her elven wine, then made her way over to the other woman.

"Hello, Era... or... should I call you Ornell?" Sava asked, looking the other up and down, and smiled again. She found it a bit amusing how Ornell dressed up as a dragonride.

Shadeen slowed her horse to a halt in front of the Broken Strings tavern. She dismounted from the saddle and hitched up her horse next to another at the bar. It had been awhile since she had been in Cascadia, and the last time hadn’t ended very well at all. She felt memories of things should not be left as bad ones and so she had decided to come back. Even if it was a friendly drink, or just to wander around, she found the place beautiful, she was glad she came back.

Pushing open the great oak door of the tavern she stepped inside. Instantly she was hit with an air of alcohol and friendly rivalry. A smile lit her face as she made her way to the counter. She nimbly dodged a few brutish looking men exchanging smiles, laughs, and punches to the arm. It had been awhile since she had been in a bar also. The general merriment of it lifted her already high spirits. She plunked her body down in front of the counter.

“What can I get you miss?” The bartender approached her. His tone was friendly and so she returned the tone.

“I’ll have anything alcohol. You recommend anything?” She nodded when he suggested a strawberry ale and he left to get the drink. She swung herself around on the seat and faced outwards, into the crowd. There were so many different people here, some she had seen before but others she had not. She recognized a woman she had seen at the birthday party for Veronna, another, a man, she had also seen there. Both seemed to be gravitating towards a woman. She’d never seen this woman before. She looked. . .Shadeen couldn’t tell her was too far away.

When the bartender tapped on her shoulder Shadeen jumped in her seat a bit, and she heard the man chuckle behind her. “Your ale,” She turned back to face him and smiled in thanks. She took the hot liquid in both hands, happy the tender had warmed it up. “So you’re interested in yonder woman?” Shadeen gazed at the bartender a moment before she answered.

“A bit. Do you know anything about her?” She hoped she wasn’t coming off as nosey, or like a stalker, but everyone in Imythess seemed eager to help anyone with anything. Or that was the general impression Shadeen got.

“She wants to see some people interested in adventure. . .in the mountains I think it was.” He picked up a glass and scrubbed at it with a cloth. “That’s all I know, you should go speak to her yourself.”

“Thank you. I think I’ll do that,” Shadeen picked herself up and headed over to the two women and man. She weaved through the people gathered in the tavern until she was only a few feet away. She closed the distance between them in a few short steps. She smiled at the group, pulling up a chair and sitting down with them all.

“Hi,” She smiled at the woman. “Mind if I join you? The bartender said you were looking for an adventure.”

Ornall rose when the woman approached, setting her glass on the tabletop. “Ornell. Just Ornell.” She remembered meeting the dragon twice before. That last trip to Taras hadn’t given her a change to talk to the Goddess of blades though. She had felt like she was dropping in uninvited. Here she was, not expecting to know anyone and look who walked in. Be it luck or not, having someone who was really a dragon would be all the better for this trip, and she was not one to give away someone like that. She hoped Sava would return the favor in turn, even if she had not been given the chance to explain that she was now an Avatar. Instead, Ornell gestured for Sava to sit as she herself sat back down. “I’m heading to the Dragonspine Mountains. There is a place there that once brought great riches through down through Istan and to the rest of Imythess. They say the way was blocked long ago. I think it can be unblocked and the treasures revealed.” Ornell’s eyes seemed to brighten, she was eager to find others willing to go. She loved the idea of a real adventure. She picked up her glass and took another sip, well aware that many ears were listening even if the hearer was unwilling to go with her. “Interested?” Ornell asked with a slight smile.

Before an answer could present itself a woman came forth from the crowed. She sat down at the table that none seemed willing to sit at until now. Ornell turned her fiery eyes on the newcomer. “Welcome. And of course I don’t mind, as long as you don’t mind heading to the Dragonspine.” The mountains themselves were why she had chosen the garb of a dragon rider. It was a way to show that she was capable of traveling to and among those peaks without having to touch on any divine powers. It would also, hopefully, draw useful members. Besides, it wasn’t as much a ruse as an actually playing down of her magical powers. With little magic she still had a dragon, two blades she knew how to use, and an even more powerful weapon of her own hands. All in all, this was turning out better then she had hoped. New traveled fast when it was interesting though, and she had told the barkeep to send people her way. It was clear, not just from the full glass in her hand, that that was just where she had come from. “A name would be useful though, mine is Ornell.” She gave her glass a swirl, not watching as the golden liquid spun. She would leave it to Sava to introduce herself, if she wished to join, as introducing her now might imply that she was already part of Ornell’s quest and the dragon had yet to voice her decision. No need to try and force a friend’s decision. That was a good way to not only loose a friend, but to gain a foe.

Sava smiled slightly, and then sat down when Ornell gestured for her to. Once sitting, Ornell spoke of going to the Dragonspine mountains, looking for the treasures and such. Sava's eyes brightened at that. She wasn't a greedy one for gold, and treasure, but it did spark interest, what dragon wouldn't be interested in that? All dragons like treasures, no matter what, some were just not as greedy for it all the time like herself. She thought about it, if she would join the little adventure. It would certainly be nice, she supposed, since its felt like forever since she last went on a quest, she couldn't exactly remember the last one she went on.

Before she could answer, another woman came over. The dragon looked over at the new person who came over, and watched her a moment, before turning to look over at Ornell, who spoke to the newcomer.

"I'm Sava." She said to the newcomer, then she spoke to Ornell. "I'd love to come on this adventure. I can't quite recall the last time I went to the Dragonspine mountains." She said, and smiled a little. This would be fun, though, she thinks she might stay in dragon form most of the time, unless need be. She would have liked to take her horse, but she didn't think mountains would be good for it. And she would have to leave Felix. She'll just take Blackquill.

At that, the small fly dragon woke, and looked up at Ornell, and the other woman, quite curious. Sava took a drink of her elven wine, and reached up with one hand, and stroked the small dragon, who was Sava's best friend.

((OOC: Sorry its a bit small...))

((OoC: Sorry it’s so short but I didn’t want to make you wait any longer))

“Dragonsine Mountains. . .” Shadeen had never been there before but she was still exciting for the adventure. She could taste the fresh air and feel the earth beneath her feet already. The riches didn’t sound too bad either. She wasn’t a greedy person but she also wasn’t one to pass up the chance to make some money. This seemed a little dangerous but she liked that aspect as well.

“Mine is Shadeen.” She smiled. “Greetings Ornell and Sava.” Shadeen watched the woman pull out a small fly dragon and smiled at the sight of the creature. “I’d love to join you on this adventure. I must say I’m a little excited already.” She laughed lightly. Perhaps she’d also get to know these women as friends as well. She was a girl who could always use more friends.

If it was a mountain then she would have to leave Fury behind, which was a little disappointing. She would just have to make it without him. She got a little too attached to her animals anyway. She moved the chair closed to the table and studied the two women she was with. Sava and Ornell seemed to know each other already so she was a bit of an outsider in this whole adventure.

“When do we leave?”

((OOC: My posts are sadly short lately too. And if you want me to wait a day or two for you to get a good post, I don't mind. *points to rules above* My apologies for the short delay though… :( ))

Ornell smiled to herself as she took a sip. Yes, this was going to be fun. She simply had to make sure the adventurer's she found made it across the desert. They would most likely be traveling at night... but she was getting ahead of herself. One step, one thing, at a time. She set down her now empty glass. She took a moment to look over the two woman who sat at the table with her. The more common people seemed to be just lingering about, practically eavesdropping openly. Sava was a dragon, and Ornall had a great respect for them. They had a power at their birth that seemed so much stronger then many others in this plane. They also lived very long lives and gained a lot of knowledge with that. She had no idea how old Sava actually was, but age was of little matter. She had known Valen since he was small enough to perch on her shoulder. Now, she was the one perching on his.

Shadeen was very eager to go, more interested in the adventure then any reward. A bit of a warrior in training perhaps. It would be a good idea to keep an eye on her, just in case. Ornall didn’t want to loose any of her adventure party before they even started. The girl seemed to be capable to taking care of herself at least. So it wouldn’t be a babysitting job. Shadeen seemed to just want to do something, and do something they would.

"I would be glad to have you Sava and Shadeen. We will have to cross the Istan Desert to get where we want to be, so we will meet in the City of Istan to make sure we have enough supplies to make it across safely. So we will be leaving from Istan in two weeks. Is that enough time for both of you to make any necessary arrangements and get to the city?"

She knew it was more then enough time for Sava. Dragon wings was how she traveled across the land, though they were Valen's wings and not her own red ones. Those couldn't even carry her if she wanted them to. She had wings in her true Goddess form, so she simply considered them an expression of that. What Ornell wasn’t sure of was how Shadeen could travel or how fast she would be.

It wasn’t the sea, but Iolanthe was glad to do some sight seeing at the falls. She had heard it was a lovely place, and though it wasn’t exactly up to her standards, she shrugged and made way for the local tavern: The Broken Strings. Sounds like a happy place, right? Iolanthe entered with a smug grin, ready to entertain herself with a nice mug of rum. She walked through the threshold, the air singing behind her, while her hair seemed to dance along her neck. Her black attire camouflaged the scattered stains and things along her tunic and pants. She tugged on the multiple black threads that hung on her neck as she ordered a pint.

Looking around, she noticed a trio of women discussing something. Iolanthe’s nose itched with the possibility of adventure. She could have sworn on her life they had said something about money, so she turned, asking the barkeep a question: “Aye, barkeep, what’re those ladies over yonder doin’?” The barkeep raised an eyebrow, leaning slightly to see whom Iolanthe was indicating towards. “Sumfin ‘bout an ‘venture, eh.” Iolanthe grinned, partially from the barkeep’s wonderful use of grammar, and the thought of profit. She took a long gulp of her rum as the barkeep presented it to her.

Casually, Iolanthe picked up her mug, and sauntered over to the fine group of ladies. “Ello lassies,” she said, “I ‘eard the lot of ya were planning on some sort of adventure that…” Her voice trailed of as she leaned in close, her voice only a whisper. “Promise gold, eh?” Her grin widened as she could hardly wait to leave the city and make some cash. She turned, and pulled up a seat, an invitation unnecessary. You didn’t need to ask her twice for her to sit in.

She sat near the one with an eager face, and a bit of awkward standings. Maybe she wasn’t well acquainted with the bunch but… That never stopped Iolanthe from making some money, so why should it stop the other young lass? Iolanthe nudged her slightly with her elbow, ready to get herself known in the bunch and on their way. “I be called Iolanthe; you can count me in!” She slapped her hand down lightly in excitement, her grin now at a wide smile.

The other lass, who seemed to have a bit of a wee glow in her eyes, Iolanthe deemed the leader of this whole shenanigan. Iolanthe would submit to anyone who looked like they’d fry her brains in a heartbeat. “So, would we be ‘appen ta cross the big blue?” Iolanthe’s voice was full of hope. Perhaps this whole ‘adventure’ would pay off, not only literally, but bring Iolanthe closer to the one thing she loved more than booze – the sea. Plus, these lassies didn’t look like sailors, and Iolanthe was the perfect pirate. She wasn’t sure if she was ready to admit her standings, but she was wearing black, right? That meant something, right? It didn’t seem too important to Iolanthe. She wasn’t a backstabber or something foul such as that.

Sava's eyes darkened at the thought of going across the desert again. It would be the third time there, but this time she would have a reason, but that didn't help her dislike of the place, and she had a doubt she'd ever see Shain in Istan again. She looked down into her drink, before she took another drink. Two weeks. Thats longer then Sava needed, all she needed to do was tell her servants of her home to keep the place clean, and make sure no one steals while she's gone, though, she had always made sure no one could get into her treasury. She smirked slightly. If someone ever did steal from her, she would make them pay, if they were smart, no one would even dare steal from a dragon.

"Two weeks is fine with me. I'd like to stay away from that blasted desert for as long as I can." She said, and it was very clear that she disliked the desert. Sure, she sometimes liked the feeling of sand over her scales when in dragon form, but when in her human form out there, she found it terrible. She shifted slightly in her chair, and took another drink of the wine.

Then, another person came over. A another woman. Sava watched this one with a mistrustful look. She had a bet it was a pirate, just by the way the woman went. How she spoke, and dressed in black, and she just looked like one to Sava. Though, she often herself wore black, like today. Sava stroked Blackwuill once more, then the fly dragon curled around her wrist, making the small dragon look like a bracelet. She put her hand on her lap, as she watched the woman who said she was called Iolanthe.

She watched Iolanthe a moment, before turning her gaze over at Ornell a moment, then she looked down into her wine again. She would cross Istan desert in dragon form, she knew that. There was no way she would ever cross that desert in human form again, once was enough for her. She heard the newcomer ask if they would go over the ocean, and Sava had a doubt they would, but who knows what this adventure would bring. She continued to look down, thinking of things she would have to do before this trip, but as she thought, she continued to listen to the other people talk.

Ornell found herself reminding herself once again that not everyone could take the heat of the desert. She would have to make sure they would be traveling at night and that they had some sturdy tents, like those used by traders perhaps, to protect everyone from the sun during the day. And plenty of water, and a stop by that one oasis would do everyone good. She should also get a map to leave with somebody in case something came up. Better safe then sorry… Then another joined the table.

The big blue? Ornell stopped a moment to look at this woman. There was no way Ornell was going anywhere near the ocean. Avatar or not, she didn’t know how to swim. Not until she knew that would she ever dare to get on one of those flimsy little wooden tubs. More was better then less though and if this woman decided to come then Ornell wasn’t going to tell her no. “There may be gold there, we have yet to lay our eyes on it though. What we shall find is worth more then a pretty copper piece. The goal is a place far north of here, the Dragonspine Mountains, and between it and us is the Istan Desert. We’ll be meeting up in the City of Istan. If you would like to join us there, as Sava said, in two weeks… we will see what sort of treasure really lies up there. Are you interested in joining us in this little venture, Iolanthe?”

Without waiting for an answer she raised her and to catch a barmaid’s attention. Before the woman could even turn about she called out, “Another round for the table!” Turning back to the women sitting before her she focused her gaze on Iolanthe, waiting for her answer.

“Are you interested in joining us in this little venture, Iolanthe?”

A big grin spread across Iolanthe’s face as she backed away to spaces to allow room for an elaborate bow. Her face dipped down to her boots, showing off her obvious flexibility. As she came up, her hair seemed to sing softly, hinting at her air genasi heritage. “I would be honored if you would take someone as humble as myself…” Her green eyes flashed with excitement. “On your little adventure. I promise to submit all of my skills in all that might aide you.” To show that she was educated, and not just a stupid pirate as Savarkael obviously viewed her as, she spoke in quite the loquacious tongue.

Iolanthe’s ears seemed to perk up as Ornell spoke of gold and expensive findings. The She-Pirate was sure that she would be acquiring a few things to make her pockets a bit heavier. It was true; Iolanthe was suffering the downside of Piracy. No vessel, which meant no plundering on the open sea. Which in the big scheme of things meant that her abundances of coin was a little lacking.

Two weeks in Istan… Iolanthe could manage that. She’d have to contact her ‘ol pal Theron to see if he wanted to come along… Or, she could be selfish and toss a pretty coin in his face to see how jealous he could become. Iolanthe’s grin became wider as she thought of such a rotten thing. She’d most likely let him know. Besides, there was still a whole two weeks to allow herself to fall into a mischievous mood.

“Another round for the table!”

Iolanthe wrapped her arm around Ornell, giving her a soft pat on the back and cheered. “I like this lass a’ready!” She eagerly pulled up a chair, and sat down, eagerly awaiting her pint. Anyone who was willing to buy her crew a round was a hearty captain if Iolanthe ever saw one. Well, she wasn’t exactly ‘captain’ but it was close enough; a leader, putter-together of quests, ect. All the same thing when the beans were boiled. She leaned back slightly, and crossed her arms. “Two weeks it is…”

((OoC: Sorry its a little short =S ))

Shadeen had two weeks to get ready for this adventure. She’d have to ask Varonen for some advice on what to bring and what was to be expected in the mountains. Mountain Lions? But the desert. The desert made her smile, despite what others thought about it. She’d never seen the ocean but Io seemed to have a passion for it. She liked the woman. She was odd, quirky, odd again. She smiled and laughed a little internally.

“I’ll be ready in time,” Shadeen smiled, still happy to be out and about. She wasn’t much for sitting around home, although she did enjoy it every now and then. Shadeen was also very much for meeting people. Perhaps they would bond, perhaps they wouldn’t like her. She was curious about the mountains and who the women who would be travelling with her were. It was curious that it was only women here. Shadeen wondered if any men would be joining them on this trip. Men wise she really only knew Varonen and Kyrus, it might be nice to meet some more.

“Another round for the table,” Shadeen snapped back to reality and laughed when she saw Io sling her arm around Ornell.

“All it takes is a drink eh?” She said to Io and smiled.

Sava drained the last of her wine, and leaned back in her chair, he gaze flitting over all of the woman at the table. They stayed on the pirate a while though, then to Shadeen. She knew Ornell, and trusted her, but the other two, she believed she will not be able to trust them for a while, that was how she was. Every warrior has to be careful, especially when being hunted by knights, and dragon slayers, even her mother. She looked away from the group, her gaze wandering over the faces of the people in the tavern. She probably should tell the group that she was a dragon, so then no one would freak out when she suddenly changes into one sometime in the desert, or even when they depart, but then there was to many people about who could hear, as she saw many were listening to the group speak.

She looked back at Ornell, when she heard her call for another round for the table. She shifted in her chair. She would stay for a little while longer, but then she should get going, as she knew she would have to get to a meeting she had to with a noble in a couple days. She had to start heading for Taras sometime. She could be there in a matter of hours, but she was riding a horse this time, and Jenna wasn't used to be carried by a dragon, so Sava decided to ride.

Once more she glanced at some people around the tavern, and glared at a occupant who was watching, but seeing her glare, he looked away. She turned her gaze back to the group.

"Well, after a little thought, I thought I'd let those who do not know me, know what I am, so your not shrinking in fear once you see me change." She said, and grinned a bit evilly. "I'm a dragon. Black and green dragon. Supposedly the colors black and green are supposed to be evil colors, but... I'm not like other black or green dragons, but I won't say I don't kill, because I do, when need be." She grinned once more a little, her eyes glinting a bit menacingly. She liked to be good most of the time, but there were times she couldn't help being evil.

When Io threw her arm around Ornell, the avatar had to resist the urge to throw the woman's arm off her. She managed and was relieved when the woman took a seat at the table. Two weeks seemed to fit them all fine. There would be more then enough time for her and for a human on foot the time should still be adequate. That day would be the second day after the moon’s first quarter. There should be plenty of light to cross the desert at night then. Daylight travel would be preferable, but just because she didn’t mind the sun it didn’t mean she should make others suffer.

She saw Shadeen was going to get along fine though. The barmaid was on her way over with her hands full as Nightwind made her announcement. The silence followed by that announcement was quickly filled by the show of drinks. Ornell accepted hers and the barmaid made her way around the table.

She took a grateful drag on her mead and closed her eyes for a moment. When she opened her eyes she spotted a man with black hair, gray eyes, and who was dressed much more like a scholar then they type who would go on an adventure. He was walking right for them and came up behind Ornell. Valen flashed an almost shy smile at Sava before bending gracefully at the waist to mummer something softly into Ornell's ear. She simply nodded. "Yes, that will be fine. Sava, you have met Valen. Shadeen, Iolanthe," she gestured to each in turn, "this is Valen. He will also be accompanying us on this venture.” She set down her cup before her, rested her elbows on the table, and steeple her fingers together so it almost looked as if she was framing the cup. “So, any other questions? Anyone?"

"I have a question." Boots pounded on the wooden floor of the tavern as a young, shirtless, muscular fellow walked up behind Iolanthe and Shadeen. Placing a hand on both of the women's shoulders, he asked, "What would I have to do to save each and every one of your lives..." He pointed at each woman at the table individually and his words were very clear for him being of the pirate persuasion as he's had little alcohol in the passed couple of days, "...and allow each you to return the favor?" He cocked an eyebrow with a grin that only graced the left corner of his mouth. His hand snaked up Shadeen's shoulder to the back of her neck, but Theron was sure that is exactly what this woman would think of it; a snake climbing her arm to asphyxiate the poor lass.

He quickly took his hand off of Shadeen, but not without a wink. His thought was that if his hand was near her and unwelcome, there was a mighty fine chance he would lose it, especially with this crowd. He kept his other hand on Iolanthe's shoulder and used the other one to wave dismissively. "I kid, I kid." And with a shrug and a laugh, he added, "Undoubtedly, each and every one of you could boot me in the arse, especially if what Iolanthe tells me is true." And with that, he swiped Io's drink out from her very fingers and took a long swig before setting it right back where he found it. His clear ponunciation would soon plummet if he continued on with drinks, slipping into something very much like Iolanthe's. He knew this, and tried to keep that from happening. He was sure his first-mate would help him with the matter, as she would undoubtedly love to keep ahold of her drink without him interjecting.

He looked over to the one that asked if anyone had any questions, as he assumed she was the woman in charge of this whole thing. "Well, if you're still lookin' for people to come with ya," He patted Io on the shoulder, probably a little too hard, while looking at Ornell. "I can keep this fair lass out of trouble while she keeps me out of your tents at night." He smiled a sweet, innocent smile. "What say ya to that?"

“All it takes is a drink eh?”

A crooked grin appeared on Iolanthe’s face and she made a little shrug, “oi, maybe just a lil hop over the line, eh?” Iolanthe wasn’t saying she’d go and die for this lass who’d bought her a drink… But she would definitely consider returning a favor for her. But Iolanthe wasn’t above practicing a little piracy. She couldn’t help it; it was in her nature. A ‘liberator’ as Theron called it. Though, she wasn’t a killer, only a defender.

The other lass, who soon confessed herself a dragon, seemed a bit reserved, and unwilling to speak unless she found the need to. Iolanthe picked up her mug, and walked over to where the dragon was sitting. Iolanthe turned her head to the side, and resisted tapping on the dragon-lady’s jaw. “Whatcha teef look like, eh?” Iolanthe had never met a dragon before, and would have loved to see some huge dragon teeth. She knew a human form wouldn’t have the gargantuan teeth of a dragon… But maybe if Io were lucky, she’d have pointy ones. Wouldn’t that be wicked?! Iolanthe shrugged, backing up a few paces so the dragon-lady could show them off. Hell, if Io had pointy teeth she’d show them off to everyone who’d look. And do a little chomping, too.

Eventually returning to her own seat, Ornell didn’t seem to happy about being buddy-buddy with Iolanthe. She didn’t mind though, she wasn’t really into the idea of getting particularly close to anyone on this quest. Only as close as she thought might be beneficial. Then, a man, soon named Valen, approached. Iolanthe raised an eyebrow, curious as to why this bookworm of a lad would want to come. However, after seeing the look her threw the dragon-lady, Iolanthe couldn’t help but grin. She handed out a wave to the man as Ornell introduced her. Though it was hard for Iolanthe to picture why an ‘ol bookworm would fancy a snappy lass as Savarkael, it didn’t bother her too much; it wasn’t her problem. Iolanthe just pitied the kid for when the ‘ol fire-breath became angry.

Then, seemingly out of nowhere, Theron, her old captain showed up. Iolanthe knew down in her pirate senses he would, eventually. She shook her head as he continued with his antics about the ladies, and jutted him in the rib playfully. Though, it turned to a bit more dangerous as Theron snagged a swig of her ale. “Oi, cap’n, do ye have ta do that?” She whisked the mug back and down the rest before Theron could make any more moved on her beloved liquid.

"I can keep this fair lass out of trouble while she keeps me out of your tents at night."

Iolanthe bursting into laughter, realizing how true such a statement was. “Aye! Cheers!” She threw her empty mug out for a clanking toast, though, thinking no one would really respond, she quickly threw the empty mug down, as she leaned back in her chair. “Good ta see ya cap’n.” She murmured.

Shadeen heard the boots pound behind her and a voice speak out. When she turned around to be confronted with a topless man she quickly turned her eyes back down to the table top. She tried to hide her blush, since it was dark she was sure she had gotten away with it. Then she felt his hand on her shoulder then snaking up the back of her neck. It made her blush more and she wrung her hands together under the table. She laughed a little nervously at his comment. When he removed his hand Shadeen caught him winking. She took a swig on her alcohol and tried to focus on something else.

She sipped at her mug for a moment, thinking over the whole adventure. It looked like a huge turnout, must be good for Ornell. She hadn’t gotten the chance to greet Valen with a smile and a nod of hello. Then she tuned back into what Iolanthe and Theron were saying. She thought they would probably make the adventure a somewhat interesting one, as well as test everyone’s patience. She wanted to see what Ornell and Sava would think of Iolanthe. Shadeen could almost giggle just thinking about it.

“How long do you think this trip will take Ornell?”

“Whatcha teef look like, eh?”

"Like any other human teeth around here. It wouldn't be much of a disguise if I had rows of sharp, deadly teeth, now would it?" She said, in a steady voice, though, there was the faintest sound of annoyance in the voice also, her gaze never wavered from the pirate woman, the odd colors in her eyes though, didn't really seem human like though, but the dragon tried as best she could to act human, even if there were also many times she would look like a dragon, just a human.

When the woman returned to her chair, Sava's gaze looked over the group again, before she turned her head slightly, noticing Valen coming over.

She smiled slightly. She remembered meeting the steel dragon in Taras, on a fine day, though, Sava's bag had been stolen that day, but Valen and Era and herself managed to catch the thief. Sava hated thieves, if it had not been a child, she would have swallowed the thief whole. She saw him smiled at her, and she merely smirked slightly, then took a drink of her new wine that had come. She was going to say something to Valen and even opened her mouth, but then, another person showed up, a man, who was shirtless, and who seemed also like a pirate to Sava also. She frowned in disgust as he spoke.

She stayed silent, even long after the newcomer stopped speaking. She didn't like talking when there was nothing to really say. She hoped no more pirates would jointhis adventure, but oh well, she figured, if the male pirate even tried to flirt with her, she'd rip his head off. She smirked at the even thought of it.

She looked up, and at Shadeen as she asked her question. How long indeed... she wondered a moment. She lifted her hand up to her neck, where the fly dragon once more changed places, moving from its bracelet looking likes form on her wrist to looking like a bracelet around dragon womans neck. I'm coming with you. Blackquill stated in Sava's head, then And Felix. Sava shook her head.

"Not Felix. He doesn't like being away from home for a long time, sides, I need him to guard the palace." Mumbled Sava, to those who heard her, would think her talking to herself, which she didn't care if they did or didn't. She leaned back in her chair, listening.

Valen let his eyes travel from Sava to each of the other members of the group. This group was all women? How unusual… they better find some men or he was going to feel like the odd man out, quite literally. Then, another prospective adventurer decided to show up. Valen’s eyed Theron as the man approached. Instantly, he didn’t like the man. He seemed way too confident of himself and was a show off to boot. Another like the pirate lady then? He didn’t really favor their type, being unruly and unpredictable… He was about to speak when Ornell did.

“You’re welcome to come with, and I’m sure these fine ladies will be able to answer you questions, but I’m not about to repeat myself. As for what you would need to do to save my life.” Ornell rose to her feet then, her tone serious. “You would have to best a dragon, my dragon. You would also have to get past him to reach my tent. I wouldn’t mind seeing someone try.” Valen grinned. She pushed in her chair with one hand and let her gaze shift to Shadeen. “It shouldn’t take more then five nights travel, unless you want to travel the desert during the day, to reach our goal. It may take longer to get back depending on what we find. Don’t worry if you don’t have everything to make it across. I’ve called in some favors owed to get us across the desert and back in one piece.” The avatar graced them with a smile. “I will see you all there then. Until then, fare thee well.” Ornell started for the door, drifting by the bar to hand the barkeep one more coin. “Thank you. I’ll be off now.” She tucked her hair behind her pointed ear absently as Valen escorted her out of the Tavern and into what was now coming on midnight.

((OOC: you may not post as you wish now, as Ornell will not be posted here again. See you all in the City of Istan! I will be PMing the link to everyone.))