Lyrielle
New
Roleplay posts: 3
Age: Appears to be in her early thirties. But what is age to an elf?
Appearance: Lyrielle is average height for her people, standing around 5ft 8inches tall. Her eyes are a gleaming emerald green, and her hair stands out against her olive skin. The silvery hue of it is certainly unnatural, but contrasts well with her natural features. She is sveldt, as are most elves, her more feminine qualities not overstated, but plainly present. Her body sports several nasty scars from her childhood, and are interspersed with the geometric tattoos of the Rustwood Elves. She is beautiful by most objective standards, but nothing that would be too remarkable on its own. Her facial features usually sport a smirk or an amused expression. Her clothes are fine silk, velvet and leather. Expertly tooled and in a tunic style with long boots that provide the optimum amount of mobility to allow her to dance, should the need arise.
Full image can be found here: https://i.pinimg.com/474x/45/a8/af/45a8afc9155da4da118cabe83a2a8d6e.jpg
Equipment: Hip bag:
In Lyrielle’s pack, a variety of consumable intoxicants can be found. Everything from psychedelic mushrooms to the all too potent pipeweed, among various alchemic powders for various recreational purposes. A flask of potent liquor and various smoking accessories can also be found, among a pair of dice. Additionally there is a small collection of exotic cosmetics she utilizes for performances and daily use respectively.
> Her Person:
Lyrielle has a small coin purse that sits in her hip bag. This smaller bag contains supplies for writing such as rolled parchment, inks, and quills. A leather bound notebook is attached to her hip, and it is positively jammed full with all sorts of things ranging from play ideas to poems.
She has usually two or more instruments on her, flute, drum and harp are not uncommon choices. An assemblage of rings, necklaces, bracelets, earrings and other precious jewelry adorn her features, nothing too gaudy. She carries an ornate bejeweled shortsword at her hip, yet this is more for artistic flair than actual use. It is suitable for combat, having been a gift from a lovelorn princess but...that’s a story for another time.
Skills and Abilities: > Skills:
- Musician: Lyrielle knows a host of musical instruments and is deft in their operation and maintenance. She sings, and has the uncanny ability to learn new instruments in excessively short amounts of time.
- Writer: Lyrielle is a renowned poet, having works celebrated throughout the world she came from. Though her writing isn’t limited to poetry alone, she’s written several books that have gained acclaim as well.
- Actress: Lyrielle studied theatre under the illustrious Felzoco Rambugnes, and as such has learned the art of acting to a point where she can convincingly immerse herself in a role and play characters. She’s done so in nearly every opera she’s composed, barring the more advanced once that require her direct attention to conduct.
- Composer: You don’t get the title of songweaver without having some serious abilities in composition. Lyrielle was, in her own world, renown as one of the greatest living composers. Her works were celebrated and would draw attendance from some of the most powerful figures in civilized politics. She’s dabbled in many different forms of composition, and is always eager to learn new ways of bringing stories and music together.
-Martial training: Due to the various roles she’s portrayed in the theatre, She’s gained training from various martial orders in swordplay and the basics of combat. Though these were more for the purposes of choreography rather than practical application. It’s been many decades since she’s had to wield a blade in earnest. Most of her knowledge is academic rather than practical.
- Wood Elf: The Rustwood Elves are a strong people. Physically, they have a heartier constitution than their slight cousins. They are able to live in a variety of tough terrain, and can easily take to a nomadic lifestyle. However, a full-blooded Rustwood elf has to work on honing the art of dexterity, due to their heavier frames. Meaning that they have a human level of clumsiness at times. Like others in their elven family, they possess keen eyesight and excellent hearing above the average human.
> Abilities:
- Artistic Savant: Lyrielle is beyond gifted when it comes to music, poetry, writing and other expressive forms of creation. Her perspective of the world is far different than the average persons, and as a result she is able to capture feelings and moments in time and translate them into words and notes. Of course, this isn’t due to any inherent magical ability, but rather her own altered perception of the world.
Of course, more conventional things such as survival or practical skills are sorely lacking, and she has over the decades come to rely on servants for her more basic needs. The idea of mundane tasks is immeasurably stifling to her, and she’ll do whatever she can to avoid such dreary activity..
-Mark of starlight: It’s said that those touched by the mark manifest some sort of sign on their bodies. In Lyrielle’s case, it was the silver hue of her hair, which changed in her infancy. It’s said that those who carry the mark are harbingers of change, and while not inherently good or evil, they tend to be the eye of the storm during upheaval or turmoil. How much of this is the superstition of the Rustwoods or reality is anyone's guess, though the manifestation of the mark is undeniable.
Biography: Lyrielle the Talespinner had not always been so famous, or infamous, depending on whom you spoke to. She had begun her life in very different circumstances than the glamour and accolades that came with being a genius songsmith. Music, Poetry, Writing and composition came to her easily, but this did not mean she had always been thusly capable. Her origins were, in a word; Humble.
She began her life as Velatha Sarphyra, The third daughter of a simple orchard farmer in the southern Rustwoods. Her childhood, however, was far from idyllic. From a young age it was clear that Velatha was different. She had little patience or interest in the things a young she-elf ought to have been interested in. Nor did she have much interest in obeying her parents in their efforts to help mold her into a “proper” elf.
Beyond this was the glaring mark of starlight that had manifested at the age of four years. Amongst the elves of the Rustwoods, the touch of starlight was said to manifest in a mark upon exceptionally potent agents of change. Neither inherently blessed or cursed, these individuals would undergo strange changes in their appearance. For Velatha, it was her hair. From a deep brown to a striking silver hue, this change brought with it an added level of scrutiny that was difficult for the Sarphyra family to shoulder.
Her father and mother were simple folk, content to live simple lives. Their star-touched daughter was more a burden than a blessing on the family. Those who were star-touched were different, and different things represented danger to the simple folk of the southern forests. Theirs was a life marked by tradition, the changes of the seasons, and above all else harmony.
Velatha was certainly not an agent of harmony.
What was clear, even at an extremely young age, was that she was beyond talented when it came to the creative arts. She sang beautifully, and seemed innately keyed into communicating herself though the medium of music, writing, and creative expression. These talents would have normally endeared her to her family, were they not so prone to calling unwanted attention upon them.
It’s said that the star-touched were agents of chaos, never truly able to know lasting peace. They would almost certainly be the eye of the storm, and while their talents might buoy their families to riches and fame, they could easily lead them to death and ruin. Velatha had always had a contentious relationship with her family. Never quite fitting in. It’s small wonder why her father decided that it was better to rid himself and the Saphyra family from the burden of their star-touched child before true calamity could befall them.
It was undoubtedly cruel, the decision to take her as a child into the southern mountains and leave her at the crossroads that marked the border with the human kingdom known as the Belum Empire. While she knew her father was not keen on her behavior, she never thought he would willingly abandon her.
It’s why when they made camp she was so confused, awakening the next day, only to find her father and their wagon gone. She had paid little attention to the route there, and in the thick fog of that early morning she found herself terrified and lost, heading down the path that led deeper into the human kingdom. This terror would lead to heartbreak as she grasped the reality of the situation.
The road was not kind to a penniless elven child, but orphans of all types ended up on the streets of the empire’s capital, Greymoor. Here she found herself forced to survive as best she could, using both her innate natural talents and proclivity for theft in order to eek out a living. More often than not she was able to avoid the more savage aspects of life on the streets, but she knew the touch of true cruelty more than once, and her body and soul became marked with scars carried by those who tread the lowest rungs of society.
However, it was on those streets, caked in filth and infested by lice that she caught the attention of the acclaimed playwright and thespian Felzoco Rambugnes. She had been singing on the street, and such was the poignancy of her song that Felzoco felt compelled to enlist her into his artist’s troupe, the Company of Lady Martingale.
It was also here that she took on the mantle of Lyrielle. The troupe proved to be the crucible that forged her from a starving performer into a true artist. Here, travelling from land to land, performing for commoner and nobility alike, she was able to find herself. Being so young, (Comparable to an elf, at least), her talents were unheard of.
As was the rate in which she developed those talents. From novice to master in a mere handful of years, her compositions and writings began to filter throughout the civilized lands, inspiring and thrilling folk from the lowlands to the highest courts with equal force. Before long her name and works were celebrated even back in the Rustwoods, where the kingdom revered their wayward daughter.
Of course, the truth of why she had left the woods was unknown. Despite the pain of being abandoned, she did not seek revenge on her father, or her family. Instead she simply never acknowledged having been theirs in the first place. She was Lyrielle now, Velatha the starving orphan of Greymoor no longer existed.
The Rustwoods called to her however, her ancestral home had always held a place in her heart, and the decision to settle back in the kingdom’s capital brought with it a level of prestige the small wood elf kingdom had not known for many centuries. Such was the level of prestige that her works and name brought, that before long the king’s court began hosting visitors from nations far oustripping the kingdom’s own power. The performances and works of Lyrielle acting as a foundation on which a new source of political power moved to elevate the kingdom to a status previously unknown.
However, Lyrielle was not the image of credulity, nor were her works exactly predictable when it came to their political messages. She often questioned societal norms, either in the Rustwoods or elsewhere in the civilized world. Her stories often causing an uproar for the poignancy or audacity of the tales that they spun. The quality of the world was undeniable, but she was unafraid to defy convention, and this earned her the ire of the more traditional conservative elements of Rustwood society.
Her work titled “The Velvetine Hand” or “The Queen’s Diversion.” earned her the ire of the royal family. Though not outright portraying the king and queen, the allegory to their more private lives, and the insinuation of the queen’s own...atypical tastes, drew sharp censure from the royal family. Though the story was beloved by the people, this earned Lyrielle the unenviable position of becoming the “Royal Songweaver”. A title that required she relocate to a tower in the kingdom’s palace.
Of course, such was this honor that she had no ability to refuse it. Effectively becoming a “guest” of the royal family and gaining the “honor” of representing the Kingdom of the Rustwoods as its official playwright, composer, and songweaver. This forced her to carry an official royal guard, and of course, submit her works to the royal family directly and privately, before they appeared before the general masses.
Being effectively imprisoned, Lyrielle found herself writing works that were summarily rejected by the royal family. The deafening silence that resonated from her was felt throughout the kingdom, and the greater world beyond. It threatened to put the political future of the kingdom in jeopardy, yet she refused to produce works that were “subpar” or sterilized versions of her original compositions.
Finally, an agreement was struck between the royal family and the Talespinner. She would produce a work immortalizing the exploits of the newly returned middle prince, this would be the medium by which he was returned to Rustwood society as a returned beloved son, rather than filthy vagrant.
In return, she would be released from her station as Royal Songweaver, and able to return to writing works she chose. Provided they did not disparage the royal family. Begrudgingly she agreed to this, and was then introduced to Ivoron Otheron of the Rustwoods.
She was not impressed. She’d found better muses in scenery, and the uncooperative prince was, in a word, boring.
She then found herself placed aboard a sailing vessel with the young prince, attempting to wring from him a tale worthy of her creative genius just as a mist began to envelop their ship.
Allegiances: None currently
Place of Residence: None currently
Registered: Nov 22, 2021 14:51:21 GMT -5
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Post by Lyrielle on Dec 6, 2021 19:43:01 GMT -5
She decided not to correct him on his point about previously blending. If he had managed to blend well he wouldn’t have been found and returned to the kingdom. Clearly, the prince had much to learn about the basics of deception, and failed to appreciate the utility it provided. She would have to be a teacher to him, she'd already made that resignation during their time in the mists together. She determined it was ultimately one of several roles she’d have to play regarding the younger prince.
As Ivoron called to her about the rope she glanced at it, then back to him. Shooting him an even look with a flat monotone to match “So it is. Should be a small matter for you to see to, shouldn’t it? ” A finality to her words making it absolutely clear she had zero intention of doing whatever trifle some manual labor the prince was trying to goad her into. By now in their voyage together he should know that simply was not her purview.
Now that they were closer to the shore she kept her voice slightly muffled. A smile blossoming over her painted lips as she moved to stand at the side of the vessel that would offer her the most uninterrupted line of sight to the rather imposing figure that stood there. A hand rising to wave with the flair and earnestness that would speak of someone of noble station. Or at least, someone of some measure of diplomatic standing. It was hard to convey that in a simple gesture, but she was nothing if not a zealous student of mannerisms and how best to replicate them for her performances.
“Ahoy there! Greetings and salutations! “ She called, her voice trilling with the pleasant tones of a singer. The elvish helped in that regard, she hoped it would be recognized by the denizens of this port. Though there were details that she would have to suss out once she had the chance to actually talk to someone at length. Too many things seemed out of place here. She was no stranger to the various ports of the world, and there were things visible in that harbor that were quite alien to her. Enough that she decided to err on the side of caution.
Still, it never hurt to be polite and friendly. Generally, most responded well to that approach. Unless they were some sort of backwards warrior people. She wasn’t getting that read off the elderly woman standing at the docks though. There was something about the imposing figure that spoke of power and authority. She’d make a fine character for a production, Lyrielle concluded to herself. She was unsure if it was the role of a protagonist or antagonist though at this juncture, but she was certain she'd get a better feel in the conversation that was about to unfold. Her friendliness in tone and demeanor matched only by the confidence she was projecting, as if she herself also carried some measure of power and authority.
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Grandma
Dedicated
Roleplay posts: 144
Age: Appears to be in her 80's
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Appearance: An elderly woman with a wiry frame who most notably possesses unnatural height, standing at well over seven feet tall even when hunched over her cane. Her hair is grayish-white and normally done up in a bun and her eyes are also gray in color. Her skin is very pale and has an almost grayish hue to it. Her nails are long, black, and sharpened at the tip.
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Equipment: She wears a deep purple robe that has sleeves that extend far beyond her hands. Her hands are covered with fine gloves of black silk and she wears one ring on each, one having a purple stone set in it and the other a piece of onyx. Carrying an ornate cane of orellium, Grandma can use it to increase her magical channeling as well as assist in deflecting others' spells with it. The cane itself is black and covered in numerous ornate, but tiny runes. The cap on the cane is a purplish-colored gem. On her wrist is a silver bracelet with a ruby in it that Grandma uses for communication with others who own similar bracelets.
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Skills and Abilities: Skilled at knitting!
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Biography: While the details of Grandma's past are shrouded in mystery, since first meeting Naoki she has served essentially one role, that of advisor. While her titles have varied as Naoki moved up the social ladder of Isra, her continued support, and assistance she offered to Naoki have never wavered.
Even following the destruction of Isra, Grandma continues to follow and offer guidance to Lady Naoki as they attempt to rebuild from the wreckage.
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Allegiances: Naoki
Place of Residence: Port Argentium
Registered: Mar 16, 2021 19:51:53 GMT -5
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Post by Grandma on Dec 19, 2021 18:37:44 GMT -5
As the vessel drew ever closer, Grandma finally got a better look at the pair. They were in much better-looking condition than most arrivals. Granted, the bar for that was just somewhere above washing up clinging to a piece of driftwood, but neither of these folk seemed to be in particularly dire straits. At this distance, the crone was also able to recognize them as elves. She didn’t have particularly strong opinions on elves as a whole, but it did make her wonder how old these two were.
“Welcome to Port Argentium! I hope you didn’t encounter too much trouble during your travels.” Grandma’s words were filled with warmth, her eyes softening as she responded to Lyrielle’s greeting.
Grandma had been wondering if there were more figures she’d simply missed on the boat, but now given how close it was… Unless there were others below deck they seemed to only be the only ones on it. Surely such a vessel would normally have a larger crew? Perhaps they’d lost some at sea? There was also the chance that when the floods came they simply were in the right place at the right time.
If she had to guess at the dynamic between the two elves… Well, she’d wager at the female one being in charge. She carried herself about with a certain level of self-assuredness. There was also the fact she was impressively well dressed given the circumstances. Grandma couldn’t imagine someone of a lower class going to such lengths to keep up appearances… Aristocrats, however, not even the end of the world would separate them from their finery.
The male one certainly wasn’t shabbily dressed, but he hadn’t taken nearly such meticulous care of himself as his companion. A servant? A family member? A friend? It was impossible at this stage to guess at their relation to each other, but perhaps conversing with them would leave some clues.
“From a distance, you both appear to be in good health, but I’ll ask nonetheless. Do either of you require any medical assistance or food and water? If so, I can send for some immediately.” Grandma didn’t think either needed anything desperately but offered anyway. In her experience, a friendly gesture could go a long way.
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Fran'garaz "Frankie"
Established
Roleplay posts: 44
Age: 30
Appearance: Frankie stands at a small 5 foot even. This is of course taller than most goblins, who average out at about 4 feet to 4'4 feet, but shes far shorter than those of her father's race, as orcs tend to average 6+ feet.
She's unmistakable as a half Goblin however, by her green skin and short darker green hair, her long, pointed ears, and her long, mischievous grin. However, some orc does creep into her features, most notably by the small tusks that jut up from the bottom of the jaw. They're small enough that they're only noticeable when she smiles.
Her face is slightly more attractive than most goblins, with high cheekbones, large orange pupiled eyes, and a slightly upturned button nose. Her hair is mostly unkempt on top with similar bangs that droop down at the top of her jaw, but the back is usually pulled into a small, messy ponytail.
Finally, she sports a handful of golden rings through her ears, as well as a ring through her septum.
Though she could be considered relatively attractive, she's still prone to goblin hyperactivity from time to time which twists her features. In such a state, her eyes and grin seem to grow larger and slightly crazed, but this state is usually one of joyfulness and mischievousness, and rarely ends in injury. Instead, it's more likely to result in mere property damage
Equipment: Frankie is a merchant vessel captain first and foremost. To keep up appearances, she can usually be found wearing a white silken shirt, a big red belt with a golden buckle, and a pair of navy pants that match her captain's coat and tricorn hat.
However, she never really forsook her tribal heritage. When out in the wilds or jn private, she sometimes can be found in her a light, leather and fur top that covers her from half way up her midsection and up to her neck, leaving her midriff and arms exposed. This is coupled with a matching skirt that reaches just above her knees, and finally a pair of wraps that cover her shins and ankles, then wraps around the middle of her feet, leaving the ankles and toes exposed, giving her better purchase when in the brush.
Frankie is an expert with a knife and always has one on her for personal protection, but she is also a great shot with a bow and arrow, having been taught by her mother. Though her father always wanted to teach her how to wield an axe, being an orc, she found that she had trouble with the weight of such weapons, and decided a quick, versatile fighting style would keep her alive longer.
Finally, though not equipment, she owns her own trade ship. A fairly large boat for a goblin, the ship is one part her home, one part transport hauler, and one part store front. She's spent a good few years collecting and trading that the hull of the ship is mostly full of all sorts of goods.
Skills and Abilities: Frankie is a merchant first and foremost. Goblins tended to do most of the trading in her mixed tribe, as the orcs weren't as charismatic nor crafty enough to trade efficiently. The goblins however used their stature and the stereotypes of their kind to their advantage, allowing their trade partners to think they're ripping them off, when the tables are actually turned.
As a half Goblin, Frankie is able to use a handful of tactics from both goblins and larger humanoids, as well as her looks. She's a fair merchant, but has a keen eye for an excellent deal. She's one to take advantage of whatever situation she comes into, and usually ends up on top.
Being the daughter of a goblin ranger and an orc warrior, she also knows how to hunt and fight with great skill, choosing range and a knife as well as her own two hands.
Finally, like most goblins, she is prone to Goblin Hyperactivity. When this occurs, starts to think, speak, and move at great speeds, often running and climbing from one thing to the other, and it usually ends with great joy and mischief as well as likely property damage. There's no time to consider not breaking something when there's fun to be had, stuff to climb, and things to do.
Enemies of the goblins often consider this akin to a berserker frenzy, but those who are friends of the goblins either join in the fun or stay out of the way.
Registered: Jan 9, 2022 23:34:33 GMT -5
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Post by Fran'garaz "Frankie" on Jan 9, 2022 23:48:55 GMT -5
It took a bit of effort to calm the excitement in the Green Queen's crew, especially the driver brothers who had been down below deck cranking away at the ship's paddle wheels, but the trade ship had finally lost enough speed that berthing her to the Port Argentum dock wasn't going to cause any damage.
At the front of the ship, with one booted foot atop the bow's railing, just above the ship's beautiful, winged orcish woman figure head, stood the captain, Captain Fran'garaz, or Frankie for short, wearing her navy coat and tricorn hat, looking triumphant in the ship's approach. Or as triumphant as a five-foot tall half-goblin could, at the very least.
Slowly, the trade ship pulled up beside the dock, and two goblins leaped over the side with a pair of ropes each and expertly tied the ship to the dock, bringing her to a complete stop.
The captain laughed as she pushed off from the railing and turned on her heel, intent on making a great first impression with the locals. After all, good first impressions meant more money spent. The half-goblin strode down the length of the ship, making sure the two trade windows near the ramp were open and ready for customers, before she ordered the ramp attached to the side of the ship to be lowered. With a long creak and the turning of gears, the wooden and iron clad ramp slowly lowered to the dock, allowing folk on and off the boat.
Frankie strode down the ramp and took a good look at the port, or whatever passed for a port these days, and felt her stomach drop just a touch, which was evident by her large ears shifting downwards a touch. The port looked… poor. Not just monetarily, but trade-wise as well. The settlement still looked like an up and comer, but it was the first one they'd found.
"Ay Mack!" She called over to the nearest, most important looking person. "How you doin? Name's captain Fran'garaz, or Frankie for short. Captain of the trade ship Green Queen." She looked around the port again. "You guys got a harbour master I'm meant to report to? The crew's anxious to get on solid ground, and me, I gotta get permission to trade, right?" Some ports along the coast of her homeland were the free trade variety, where someone could just show up and start selling, but others you needed permission. She didn't really want to step on any toes, not this early. "We got tonnes of premium goods on board that I wanna start sellin'."
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Faces in the Mist
Committed
Roleplay posts: 50
Appearance: The mist swirls and whirls, whispering its secrets to whoever may listen.
Registered: Mar 19, 2021 19:13:05 GMT -5
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Post by Faces in the Mist on Jan 10, 2022 3:38:21 GMT -5
Merrin Pike, Private Second Class of the Isran Guard, stood on duty at the dock. Raising a hand to shade his eyes, he squinted up at the sun. By his estimation, he had another hour or two before his watch ended. Would the picnic still be going on when he was free, he wondered? Would there be any crabs left? He sure hoped so, as they certainly looked a whole lot better than the biscuit he'd brought for lunch. The huge baskets and piles of crabs that the fishermen brought in seemed endless, but people were awfully hungry. The thought of food made his stomach rumble, and he turned to his partner, an old man in a rather shabby uniform that he didn't recognize.
"Say," he said, wondering why such a wrinkled old man was on guard duty. "By the time we're done with guard duty, do you think there'll be any cr-"
"Do you know what day it is, sonny?" asked the old man, staring off into the sea with dull, baggy eyes. Pike frowned, shaking his head.
"I can't say I do," he said. "Nobody was really able to keep track in the mis-"
"I do," said the old man, cutting him off again. "I always know what day it is. I've been keeping track. It's all in my head. Every day, every night, without fail. Never missed one."
There was a long pause as Pike waited for him to go on, but the ancient guard fell silent, still staring off into the waves. Eventually, though, the curiosity got the better of the younger guard.
"What day is it?" he asked, all thoughts of the picnic gone from his head. Finally, the other guard turned to him, his thin neck practically creaking as he swiveled his head slowly around to fix Pike with a stare that seemed to pierce straight through his soul.
"It's my birthday, youngster," he said. "Today. I know it to be true. I turned one hundred years old this morning. That's a lucky number, you know."
"Oh!" said Pike, surprised. "Happy bir-"
"Did you get me anything?" continued the old man, still fixing him with that same unblinking stare. "It's bad luck not to get a man something on such a lucky birthday, you know. All that luck has to come from somewhere. Maybe it'll come from you."
Pike froze, suddenly worried. It seemed like a load of nonsense...but what if the old man was right? Old people often knew things that most others didn't. He certainly didn't want to have his luck sucked away by some creepy old man. Rummaging desperately in his pockets, he pulled out the biscuit, dusting off some lint before handing it to the older guard.
"Excellent," said the old man, taking the biscuit and giving it a cautious sniff before putting it into his pocket. "Good luck be with you, youngster."
At that moment, an unfamiliar ship came into view, barreling its way towards the docks at a speed that seemed more than a little inadvisable. Pike leapt back, staring at the ship as it approached and wondering if it would crash into the docks. Thankfully, it slowed down before impact, sliding neatly against a slip and dropping a gangplank. When the strange green woman stepped out, Pike stared down at her, unsure what to make of her. He'd never seen a goblin before, but had always heard tales of strange little green cave-dwellers in dirty rags. This one was wearing clothes, so certainly she couldn't be a goblin. Some sort of foreign gnome, perhaps? She claimed to be selling things, so it was certainly possible.
"Hey, old man," he said, glancing over his shoulder. "Why don't you run and grab-"
He stopped, looking around again. The old man was gone, nowhere to be seen. Where could he have gone? Had the strange man been a hallucination? No, his biscuit was definitely gone. Pike would have debated the odd occurrence further, but he had a job to do. Turning to the newcomer, he gave her his most professional nod, standing up as straight as he could.
"I'll...have to get somebody," he said. "To tell Lady Naoki that you've arrived. Please wait right here and don't stea- ahem feel out of place. Someone will come by to greet you properly. Welcome to Port Argentium."
With that, Merrin Pike ran off to go fetch a messenger, telling the lad to tell Lady Naoki that some strange green gnomes had arrived in a boat with goods. Meanwhile, some ways off from the docks, the old man chewed happily on his biscuit. Guards sure were gullible, especially when he was wearing the old uniform he'd swiped off a clothesline. It worked like a charm every time, just like the old birthday trick. Perhaps someday someone would realize that he wasn't really a guard, but today wasn't it. It was the little thrills in life that kept him young, after all.
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Lady Naoki
Dedicated
Roleplay posts: 345
Appearance: Naoki is a curvaceous woman of average height, indeterminate age, and catlike features. Her hair is a dark auburn, often pulled back into a long braid. Her ears are both soft and fluffy, and her tail is never less than perfectly groomed.
Allegiances: New Isra
Place of Residence: Port Argentium
Registered: Mar 16, 2021 22:31:18 GMT -5
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Post by Lady Naoki on Jan 10, 2022 18:14:04 GMT -5
Naoki arrives at the docks not too long later, having just come from the picnic. With a full belly and having had a wonderful time teasing Roxanne, she’s in high spirits.
Another new ship at the docks, she sees. Big paddlewheels, with trade windows on the side? That’s a new one. There on the dock, that must be the ‘green gnome’ she was told of. A goblin, as far as she can tell from here, good.
Naoki approaches, raising a hand in greeting. “I am Lady Naoki, leader of this settlement. I’m told you have goods — tell me of them?”
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Ms. Tilly Vanderbilt
Established
Roleplay posts: 37
Age: now now, it's rude to ask a woman her age
Appearance: From her flaming locks to her sultry hazel eyes, Miss Vanderbilt is an extraordinary woman. She is of average height at about 5'5 and weighs about, oh that's a secret. The boys usually have a bad habit of looking at something other than her eyes. Her body is well maintained and often compared to that of a dancer.
Equipment: She wears black sleek clothing that hugs her curves and a pair of long gloves to avoid touching things with her bare hands. Tilly is the type of person who enjoys adding a little bit of color to her outfits. Her favorite piece of clothing is always the fur shawl she wears if the day isn't too humid. Along her hip sits a rapier finely polished and ready to pierce whatever is in range.
Skills and Abilities: Tilly comes from a family of merit and from that family learned to efficiently use her rapier. Her rapier a gift from her late father just before his passing. She hones her abilities of agility and elegance similar to a rose. People see her beauty but not the thorns that will prick their skin. It's not their fault there, Tilly can be quite the sweet talker and often talks her way out of tight corners.
Biography: Matilda Vanderbilt born into a wealthy merchant family is now off on her own. She dreams of one day owning a boat with her own crew. The wind in the hair, the smell of salt in her nostrils, and the freedom of adventure. She was never meant to have a desk job and sit around all day. Tilly currently is in the business of handling other people's money. She dreams often about the sound of coins clanking together and hoping one day those will be her coins.
Registered: Mar 24, 2021 15:54:47 GMT -5
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Post by Ms. Tilly Vanderbilt on Jan 12, 2022 19:57:59 GMT -5
From a distance, a fiery redhead views the boats in fascination dreaming of the day she can dock a ship of her own here. She raises an eyebrow as she sees quite the famous face, Lady Naoki. Miss Tilly has been walking around this little place to know that she's the head around these places. Tilly's eyes follows the woman like a hawk as she introduces herself to. . . a goblin. That goblin is the captain of a ship!? The sight of it boils young Tilly's blood. If that runt can get a boat than why can't she? She scoffs and watches the two interact as she pretends to be looking at whatever fish is for sale.
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Fran'garaz "Frankie"
Established
Roleplay posts: 44
Age: 30
Appearance: Frankie stands at a small 5 foot even. This is of course taller than most goblins, who average out at about 4 feet to 4'4 feet, but shes far shorter than those of her father's race, as orcs tend to average 6+ feet.
She's unmistakable as a half Goblin however, by her green skin and short darker green hair, her long, pointed ears, and her long, mischievous grin. However, some orc does creep into her features, most notably by the small tusks that jut up from the bottom of the jaw. They're small enough that they're only noticeable when she smiles.
Her face is slightly more attractive than most goblins, with high cheekbones, large orange pupiled eyes, and a slightly upturned button nose. Her hair is mostly unkempt on top with similar bangs that droop down at the top of her jaw, but the back is usually pulled into a small, messy ponytail.
Finally, she sports a handful of golden rings through her ears, as well as a ring through her septum.
Though she could be considered relatively attractive, she's still prone to goblin hyperactivity from time to time which twists her features. In such a state, her eyes and grin seem to grow larger and slightly crazed, but this state is usually one of joyfulness and mischievousness, and rarely ends in injury. Instead, it's more likely to result in mere property damage
Equipment: Frankie is a merchant vessel captain first and foremost. To keep up appearances, she can usually be found wearing a white silken shirt, a big red belt with a golden buckle, and a pair of navy pants that match her captain's coat and tricorn hat.
However, she never really forsook her tribal heritage. When out in the wilds or jn private, she sometimes can be found in her a light, leather and fur top that covers her from half way up her midsection and up to her neck, leaving her midriff and arms exposed. This is coupled with a matching skirt that reaches just above her knees, and finally a pair of wraps that cover her shins and ankles, then wraps around the middle of her feet, leaving the ankles and toes exposed, giving her better purchase when in the brush.
Frankie is an expert with a knife and always has one on her for personal protection, but she is also a great shot with a bow and arrow, having been taught by her mother. Though her father always wanted to teach her how to wield an axe, being an orc, she found that she had trouble with the weight of such weapons, and decided a quick, versatile fighting style would keep her alive longer.
Finally, though not equipment, she owns her own trade ship. A fairly large boat for a goblin, the ship is one part her home, one part transport hauler, and one part store front. She's spent a good few years collecting and trading that the hull of the ship is mostly full of all sorts of goods.
Skills and Abilities: Frankie is a merchant first and foremost. Goblins tended to do most of the trading in her mixed tribe, as the orcs weren't as charismatic nor crafty enough to trade efficiently. The goblins however used their stature and the stereotypes of their kind to their advantage, allowing their trade partners to think they're ripping them off, when the tables are actually turned.
As a half Goblin, Frankie is able to use a handful of tactics from both goblins and larger humanoids, as well as her looks. She's a fair merchant, but has a keen eye for an excellent deal. She's one to take advantage of whatever situation she comes into, and usually ends up on top.
Being the daughter of a goblin ranger and an orc warrior, she also knows how to hunt and fight with great skill, choosing range and a knife as well as her own two hands.
Finally, like most goblins, she is prone to Goblin Hyperactivity. When this occurs, starts to think, speak, and move at great speeds, often running and climbing from one thing to the other, and it usually ends with great joy and mischief as well as likely property damage. There's no time to consider not breaking something when there's fun to be had, stuff to climb, and things to do.
Enemies of the goblins often consider this akin to a berserker frenzy, but those who are friends of the goblins either join in the fun or stay out of the way.
Registered: Jan 9, 2022 23:34:33 GMT -5
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Post by Fran'garaz "Frankie" on Jan 13, 2022 8:51:09 GMT -5
He was gonna say steal, weren't he? Frankie lets out a small, disgruntled snort at the very idea. Too many people clung stereotypes of her kind, but she and her crew weren't corsairs, liars, or cheats, they weren't damn cave goblins. No, they were noble sort! Tribal at the roots, perhaps a little mischievous around the edges, but fair peddlers in all things mercantile. Fran'garaz wasn't even a full goblin!
Still, as the guard scampered off, Frankie turned back to her ship, then plugged two fingers between her teeth and cheeks and blew a shrill whistle. A bowler hat, followed by the face of another half Goblin peered over the side. "Skazza!" Frankie called out. "Get the ship ready for market, I gots me a hellova good feelin'!" The male, Skazza, threw out a crisp salute before barking orders at the team of lean green sailing machines that scurried about the deck.
By the time Naoki had arrived, hatches had been thrown open, banners were being put up, and even the crane that sat before the main sail had been assembled and was busy pulling something from the main cargo hatch near the front of the vessel, manned by a pair of goblins pulling and pushing at wheels and levers. Though small, their strong arms, stubbly jaws, and cigars made them more than qualified for the heavy lifting.
Frankie beams with pride from the dock and occasionally threw out a wave and an order from her perch on a mooring pillar. The attention given to her ship was quickly stolen when Naoki made herself known. The half goblin peered over and grinned a toothy grin before hopping down from her perch, bringing herself down to her full five feet of height, though that didn't seem to bother her one bit.
She greets the cat woman with outstretched arms, a cross between a greeting and presenting herself to one of her stature. "Ay, there goes me thinkin' I was gonna have to deal with a harbour master, but instead I get the head honcho of the whole town? Now that's what I call an honour!" Her hands quickly go to her own hips, standing with the utmost confidence. "Nice ta meet ya, Lady Naoki. Name's captain Fran'garaz, but most humans call me Frankie. Or Franny, but I ain't so fond of it."
Impressive as she may be, she didn't hold a candle to her ship, and when she turned to hook a gloved thumb back at the Green Queen it showed. The ship itself is an odd design, and could be somewhat described as a stretched galleon of sorts. It's overall design matched the description, but the deck seemed longer and slightly wider, enough to host a small market if need be. The deck consisted of three masts with impressive, white sails and a crows nest perched atop, and a crane sat over its main cargo hatch between its fore and middle sails, still buried in the depths below. The back of the deck hosted a large set of stairs going below deck, but ultimately ended in a large cabin, flanked by stairs that lead up to the ship's wheel.
From the dock, one could estimate that the ship had two, perhaps three decks under the surface, denoted by the small, closed hatches on the lower deck, and a line of longer, more fancy hatches that were beginning to open, looking closer to market stalls directly accessible via the dock.
Most notable, however, were the two large paddle wheels that sat just behind the back half of the ship, a unique propulsion method that could only come a slightly more creative mind. Considering the speed of the ship's approach, they had certainly proved their worth.
"Ol' Queenie's full to the brim, ma'am," Frankie says as she gestures to the ramp up to the main deck. "We're just gettin' her set up now, but I think I could give you an early run down." She gestured for Naoki to follow her aboard as she walked up the ramp and onto the deck. Upon closer inspection, the shipwrights who had made the ship knew their stuff, and the crew itself did a damn fine job, even by human standards. Frankie barked out something in a foreign tongue, sending a goblin scurrying towards the captain's cabin.
"We got a bit of everything, Lady Naoki," Fran'garaz says as she spins on a heel. "I was just finished loading her up for a long coastal trip before the floods came. I was gonna make a friggin fortune! We got everything between food and booze, furs and linens, tools of damn near every kind, timber, varnish, ores, ingots, anything we can move for a profit, and legally. Only thing we don't carry is dangerous goods, or illegal weaponry. All we got is our own."
As she speaks the goblin quickly runs back from the captain's quarters and hands her a large ledger. "Ay thanks Bob." She opened the ledger and handed it to Naoki. "I don't normally share this around, but as the boss of these parts I think I can make an exception. Its your call if we get to trade here or not, right?" She offers a wink.
The ledger was well maintained, catalogued, categorised, and valued, completed with the stock levels of each item. It was true what she had said, it seemed the ship truly was loaded for profig.
Barrels of wine, ale, and whiskey, sat near the top of the list, then foods of all sorts from meats to fruits along with the amount of ice wraith teeth assigned to each container to keep them frozen. Sacks of grain and barley must have been stacked high down below as well by the looks of it. It wasn't just food and drink though, as the manifest moved into an agricultural section, with seeds and tools ready to be bought and sold.
It wasn't just agricultural tools as the list continued on and on, with a rack or two of mining tools, artisanal pieces for crafting with the likes of leather, clay, and wood. At a glance the Green Queen likely had the materials loaded to make use of those tools too, with lists of pelts, furs, stacks of leathers and spools of cloth and linens, and even a few barrels of varnish deep in the Queen's hold.
For those discerning tastes, they seemed to be carrying some valuables and finished products too, with furniture listed as well as metal ingots ready for the forges. Mostly iron and steel, but some ingots that would be rarer finds after the end of the world.
The list continued on and on with all sorts of items, between efficient and fancy, chic and drab, useful and novelty. There were even some smaller luxuries aboard, such as already made clothing and jewellery, trinkets and knick knacks easily sold at the ship's market windows, and so much more. When Frankie said she was loaded for a windfall, she wasn't kidding.
"I'm what you'd call a procurement specialist," Frankie says as she waits for her ledger back. "Kinda a talent of mine, if you need it I either have it or I can get it. It was easier when I had my pick of the litter of ports and knew the cats who ran 'em all, but I think I can get my mojo back, even if I gotta rely more on my Finder Bugs."
She then clapped her hands together and gave them a rub. "So whaddya say, bosslady? We in business or what?" The half goblin grinned up at Naoki, ready to start seeing some profits from her investment in her goods. She must have spent thousands loading up the Green Queen, and she had initially intended to make that investment back over a hundred-fold.
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Lady Naoki
Dedicated
Roleplay posts: 345
Appearance: Naoki is a curvaceous woman of average height, indeterminate age, and catlike features. Her hair is a dark auburn, often pulled back into a long braid. Her ears are both soft and fluffy, and her tail is never less than perfectly groomed.
Allegiances: New Isra
Place of Residence: Port Argentium
Registered: Mar 16, 2021 22:31:18 GMT -5
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Post by Lady Naoki on Jan 17, 2022 11:45:57 GMT -5
Lady Naoki nods as Fran'garaz introduces herself. “Good to meet you, Captain. Welcome to Port Argentium, such as it is.”
Following Fran'garaz aboard, Naoki looks about, noting goods here and there as they pass. What she’s thinking is hard to say, but she doesn’t carry herself like someone who’s never been aboard a trading vessel before.
As Fran'garaz goes on about legality, Naoki smiles a bit to herself. This is their first stop since the flood, and it shows. Still, she nods along, preferring an upstanding sort of merchant to the alternative.
When she’s handed the ship’s manifest without any prompting whatsoever, Naoki’s eyes light up and she nods in thanks, accepting it and immediately cracking it open to examine the contents.
“Would that you had come with ten of these ships,” Naoki says, scanning page after page of the ledger. “But even this will be a great boon. I’m certain we can come to some manner of arrangement.”
“And you’d want, what, gold for most of these items?” Naoki quirks an eyebrow at Fran'garaz.
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Fran'garaz "Frankie"
Established
Roleplay posts: 44
Age: 30
Appearance: Frankie stands at a small 5 foot even. This is of course taller than most goblins, who average out at about 4 feet to 4'4 feet, but shes far shorter than those of her father's race, as orcs tend to average 6+ feet.
She's unmistakable as a half Goblin however, by her green skin and short darker green hair, her long, pointed ears, and her long, mischievous grin. However, some orc does creep into her features, most notably by the small tusks that jut up from the bottom of the jaw. They're small enough that they're only noticeable when she smiles.
Her face is slightly more attractive than most goblins, with high cheekbones, large orange pupiled eyes, and a slightly upturned button nose. Her hair is mostly unkempt on top with similar bangs that droop down at the top of her jaw, but the back is usually pulled into a small, messy ponytail.
Finally, she sports a handful of golden rings through her ears, as well as a ring through her septum.
Though she could be considered relatively attractive, she's still prone to goblin hyperactivity from time to time which twists her features. In such a state, her eyes and grin seem to grow larger and slightly crazed, but this state is usually one of joyfulness and mischievousness, and rarely ends in injury. Instead, it's more likely to result in mere property damage
Equipment: Frankie is a merchant vessel captain first and foremost. To keep up appearances, she can usually be found wearing a white silken shirt, a big red belt with a golden buckle, and a pair of navy pants that match her captain's coat and tricorn hat.
However, she never really forsook her tribal heritage. When out in the wilds or jn private, she sometimes can be found in her a light, leather and fur top that covers her from half way up her midsection and up to her neck, leaving her midriff and arms exposed. This is coupled with a matching skirt that reaches just above her knees, and finally a pair of wraps that cover her shins and ankles, then wraps around the middle of her feet, leaving the ankles and toes exposed, giving her better purchase when in the brush.
Frankie is an expert with a knife and always has one on her for personal protection, but she is also a great shot with a bow and arrow, having been taught by her mother. Though her father always wanted to teach her how to wield an axe, being an orc, she found that she had trouble with the weight of such weapons, and decided a quick, versatile fighting style would keep her alive longer.
Finally, though not equipment, she owns her own trade ship. A fairly large boat for a goblin, the ship is one part her home, one part transport hauler, and one part store front. She's spent a good few years collecting and trading that the hull of the ship is mostly full of all sorts of goods.
Skills and Abilities: Frankie is a merchant first and foremost. Goblins tended to do most of the trading in her mixed tribe, as the orcs weren't as charismatic nor crafty enough to trade efficiently. The goblins however used their stature and the stereotypes of their kind to their advantage, allowing their trade partners to think they're ripping them off, when the tables are actually turned.
As a half Goblin, Frankie is able to use a handful of tactics from both goblins and larger humanoids, as well as her looks. She's a fair merchant, but has a keen eye for an excellent deal. She's one to take advantage of whatever situation she comes into, and usually ends up on top.
Being the daughter of a goblin ranger and an orc warrior, she also knows how to hunt and fight with great skill, choosing range and a knife as well as her own two hands.
Finally, like most goblins, she is prone to Goblin Hyperactivity. When this occurs, starts to think, speak, and move at great speeds, often running and climbing from one thing to the other, and it usually ends with great joy and mischief as well as likely property damage. There's no time to consider not breaking something when there's fun to be had, stuff to climb, and things to do.
Enemies of the goblins often consider this akin to a berserker frenzy, but those who are friends of the goblins either join in the fun or stay out of the way.
Registered: Jan 9, 2022 23:34:33 GMT -5
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Post by Fran'garaz "Frankie" on Jan 17, 2022 18:07:54 GMT -5
The half goblin laughs as Naoki reads the manifest, then she places a hand on her hip with a wide grin. "Honey, it I had ten ship's, I'd be sitting in a castle on a pile of gold. I ain't there yet, but hey, I've made it this far."
She waits patiently as the cat woman peruses her wares, occasionally looking over at her crew as they assemble and pull goods from the depths of the ship. So much cargo to sell, so much money to make… the prospect made her feel a little giddy inside. While she aimed to sell in the more wealthy ports back home, if they were still around, this one would do for now. Maybe Isra was still around. Hey, that was lead by a cat woman too! Frankie never got her name though, maybe they're related?
Then she looks back to Naoki, her eyebrow raised and looking a little puzzled. "Uh… well yeah. Gold. Unless you guys use something else as currency?" She wouldn't put it past them, considering she'd never seen nor heard of such a place before. Could be a whole other world. She leans over the side of the ship and looks towards the settlement, taking in what she assumed was the context of why she would ask such a question. It didn't look particularly rich...
"...buuuuuut," she begins, swinging herself back up to full height, an impressive five-foot-nothing. "I can maybe be persuaded to barter. I've never been out this way before, if you guys have got some unique stuff I can take back with me when the fog clears, I'm sure the Highland folk will pay more gold for it than my current load is worth. I'm sure they have ports now, considering… well. Y'know." Obviously she didn't know about the mist. That could complicate things…
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Lady Naoki
Dedicated
Roleplay posts: 345
Appearance: Naoki is a curvaceous woman of average height, indeterminate age, and catlike features. Her hair is a dark auburn, often pulled back into a long braid. Her ears are both soft and fluffy, and her tail is never less than perfectly groomed.
Allegiances: New Isra
Place of Residence: Port Argentium
Registered: Mar 16, 2021 22:31:18 GMT -5
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Post by Lady Naoki on Jan 25, 2022 0:05:47 GMT -5
Naoki shrugs, noncommittal. “If it works for you, it works for me, but my people don’t yet have much gold, so I’ll likely purchase goods on their behalf and distribute them.”
“The only thing is -- and you may want to sit down,” Naoki begins, closing the ledger and setting it aside, “I don’t believe that the Mist will clear. We landed here a few months ago, and everything that I’ve seen and learned suggests that there was a cataclysm, and we are its survivors.”
Speaking in a low tone so as not to alarm any members of the crew that may be nearby, Lady Naoki seems to be quite serious.
“I don’t believe that the Mist will clear or that we will ever be able to return to the world we knew,” Naoki continues. “We were fortunate enough to be on ships when the cataclysm took the form of a flood, but not everyone was. My Empire was swallowed by the waves, and I doubt the ports you’re thinking of fared much better.” There is, of course, more, but that’s quite enough to drop on someone in one go, Naoki thinks.
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Fran'garaz "Frankie"
Established
Roleplay posts: 44
Age: 30
Appearance: Frankie stands at a small 5 foot even. This is of course taller than most goblins, who average out at about 4 feet to 4'4 feet, but shes far shorter than those of her father's race, as orcs tend to average 6+ feet.
She's unmistakable as a half Goblin however, by her green skin and short darker green hair, her long, pointed ears, and her long, mischievous grin. However, some orc does creep into her features, most notably by the small tusks that jut up from the bottom of the jaw. They're small enough that they're only noticeable when she smiles.
Her face is slightly more attractive than most goblins, with high cheekbones, large orange pupiled eyes, and a slightly upturned button nose. Her hair is mostly unkempt on top with similar bangs that droop down at the top of her jaw, but the back is usually pulled into a small, messy ponytail.
Finally, she sports a handful of golden rings through her ears, as well as a ring through her septum.
Though she could be considered relatively attractive, she's still prone to goblin hyperactivity from time to time which twists her features. In such a state, her eyes and grin seem to grow larger and slightly crazed, but this state is usually one of joyfulness and mischievousness, and rarely ends in injury. Instead, it's more likely to result in mere property damage
Equipment: Frankie is a merchant vessel captain first and foremost. To keep up appearances, she can usually be found wearing a white silken shirt, a big red belt with a golden buckle, and a pair of navy pants that match her captain's coat and tricorn hat.
However, she never really forsook her tribal heritage. When out in the wilds or jn private, she sometimes can be found in her a light, leather and fur top that covers her from half way up her midsection and up to her neck, leaving her midriff and arms exposed. This is coupled with a matching skirt that reaches just above her knees, and finally a pair of wraps that cover her shins and ankles, then wraps around the middle of her feet, leaving the ankles and toes exposed, giving her better purchase when in the brush.
Frankie is an expert with a knife and always has one on her for personal protection, but she is also a great shot with a bow and arrow, having been taught by her mother. Though her father always wanted to teach her how to wield an axe, being an orc, she found that she had trouble with the weight of such weapons, and decided a quick, versatile fighting style would keep her alive longer.
Finally, though not equipment, she owns her own trade ship. A fairly large boat for a goblin, the ship is one part her home, one part transport hauler, and one part store front. She's spent a good few years collecting and trading that the hull of the ship is mostly full of all sorts of goods.
Skills and Abilities: Frankie is a merchant first and foremost. Goblins tended to do most of the trading in her mixed tribe, as the orcs weren't as charismatic nor crafty enough to trade efficiently. The goblins however used their stature and the stereotypes of their kind to their advantage, allowing their trade partners to think they're ripping them off, when the tables are actually turned.
As a half Goblin, Frankie is able to use a handful of tactics from both goblins and larger humanoids, as well as her looks. She's a fair merchant, but has a keen eye for an excellent deal. She's one to take advantage of whatever situation she comes into, and usually ends up on top.
Being the daughter of a goblin ranger and an orc warrior, she also knows how to hunt and fight with great skill, choosing range and a knife as well as her own two hands.
Finally, like most goblins, she is prone to Goblin Hyperactivity. When this occurs, starts to think, speak, and move at great speeds, often running and climbing from one thing to the other, and it usually ends with great joy and mischief as well as likely property damage. There's no time to consider not breaking something when there's fun to be had, stuff to climb, and things to do.
Enemies of the goblins often consider this akin to a berserker frenzy, but those who are friends of the goblins either join in the fun or stay out of the way.
Registered: Jan 9, 2022 23:34:33 GMT -5
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Post by Fran'garaz "Frankie" on Jan 25, 2022 1:27:54 GMT -5
As Naoki speaks, the half-goblin’s long pointed ears begin to droop towards her shoulder. She’d suspected the mists weren’t natural, but she’d definitely hoped those suspicions were wrong. She paused a moment when Naoki finished before turning about on a boot heel and looking out to the horizon far beyond, where the mist stopped the ocean from meeting the skies. She’d never sail unto the horizon again?
Her face scrunches a little in thought as she mulls over this new information. She’d made peace with never seeing friends or family again, it certainly helped that she had a different family in her crew, but to never make a fortune again? That thought tugged at her heart a little. All of her plans had become void. The fleet she’d build, the castle she’d buy, the solid gold bed and the super comfy mattress she’d always wanted…
Finally, she broke her still composure to put her hands on her hips. “Fuck.” She remained still for a few moments more, processing the new and tragic facts… then she shrugged. “I guess that means all my enemies are dead.” She turned back around to Naoki, hands still on her hips. “Silver linings. Good thing I collected debts before I set sail.”
She pulled a long pipe from her overcoat and gave it a once over, filled it with a little pipeweed, and lit it with a match before discarding the match overboard. She took a puff with a thoughtful look and plucked the ledger up from where Noaki had placed it and quickly leafed through it.
“So, new plans,” she says, sharp teeth holding the pipe still between her lips. “Adapt, improvise, overcome, eh? Running trade ain’t gonna work out like I planned, but I still got my ship, still got my crew, and still found land.” Flick flick flick, the pages of her ledger felt and looked different to her now. They didn’t carry the weight of gold behind them, no dreams of outrageous wealth, instead she was starting to see question marks beside the values.
She snapped the ledger shut and took another puff. “I gotta do some thinking on what our next step is here, bosswoman,” she says with an honest tone. “I got some ideas, just gotta work logistics. In the meantime…” The goblin looked off to the town once more. “You ain’t got much gold, that sucks first of all, but it IS the end of the world. I knew it, just didn’t know I’d be trapped on this side of the mist. After months going through it, I ain’t gonna go back into it any time soon, so I guess we’re stuck.”
She pulled the pipe out of her mouth and tapped her chin with it. “So here’s what I’m gonna do.” She offered the ledger to Naoki once more. “Gimme a cargo order for any essentials you’re desperate for, and I’ll see what I can hand over on credit. I’ll write up a contract, have you sign it, make sure the debt is noted until we can figure out a better deal.” She pointed the end of her pipe towards the town. “Looks like your town could use some resupply, and if I’m gonna be stuck here… I ain’t gonna be known as the green goblin bitch that didn’t wanna help when I had the means to, and then some.”
The stem of the pipe was quickly deposited back in her mouth. “In the meantime, I need to figure out our next step, let the crew know what’s up once we've set up the deck market for local trade. Once that's done, I’ll write up a proposal or two and bring ‘em to you, we’ll take another look at the contract, and we can hammer down something more permanent. If it all works out, I’ll get what I’ll want, and you can keep your town supplied with whatever I’ve got on board. Not like I’ll find any big buyers for it anymore.” There’s a twitch in her eye at that. It really hurts to admit.
She put her hands on her hips once more and grinned up at Naoki. “Whaddya think, big cheese? That sound like something you’d go for?”
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Lady Naoki
Dedicated
Roleplay posts: 345
Appearance: Naoki is a curvaceous woman of average height, indeterminate age, and catlike features. Her hair is a dark auburn, often pulled back into a long braid. Her ears are both soft and fluffy, and her tail is never less than perfectly groomed.
Allegiances: New Isra
Place of Residence: Port Argentium
Registered: Mar 16, 2021 22:31:18 GMT -5
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Post by Lady Naoki on Jan 29, 2022 20:57:28 GMT -5
“I’ve got some gold,” Lady Naoki corrects Fran'garaz as she takes the ledger. “You think a ship like that would sail with empty vaults?” Again, she gestures toward The Depravity. With how much trouble it was to get the stuff aboard, much of the treasure she loaded it with hasn’t so much as had eyes laid upon it in decades.
“That, and whatever you might have used gold for, I can have supplied to you,” she adds. “In this time of survival and initial construction, I’m making sure everyone who contributes gets what they need. If you would have property, start a business, some bit of industry, I’m sure we can arrange something. I’m sure you’ll have some brilliant idea before long if you’ve not already, and if it would avail my people, I would be wise to see it to fruition. … This is far from my first joust, as it were,” Lady Naoki says. “As such, I’ll look at whatever agreement you might wish to draw up, but if you would see me sign it, I would be involved in crafting the terms,” Naoki says, shooting Fran'garaz a significant look. It’s not a lack of business acumen that brought the floods, that much is certain.
“And I’ll tell you now: I would sooner avoid the concept of quantitative debt altogether. It’s a concept best suited for a stable world where values are known. A slip of paper saying I owe you some sum of gold is less than worthless when that sum of coinage may not even exist in this world at all, and especially when there is no higher power to collect that debt from me. I would rather see you reimbursed with something I know can be provided — if not immediately, then in the coming years as my society grows. Perhaps you wish to operate some sort of mercantile business. Perhaps you would fancy yourself first among New Isra’s trade fleet, or some manner of official in trade or industry. Perhaps you’d just like to retire — though you seem far too spry for that — if you’ll pardon my saying. Regardless: figure out what you want from this new world, and we’ll figure out an arrangement that satisfies us both.”
Pulling a set of spectacles from the pouch on her hip, Naoki opens the ledger again and tarts flipping back to where she left off before remembering something more.
“Oh, and further,” she adds, gesturing to Fran'garaz, “I would rather you not open for ‘local trade’. The people of New Isra have precious little to offer you in trade. Most, we fished out of the water with only the clothes on their back, and some with even less than that. What they need, I will buy for them and distribute. Save your crew the trouble and close those windows, if you would — the trade will go through me,” Lady Naoki states, tapping her chest.
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Fran'garaz "Frankie"
Established
Roleplay posts: 44
Age: 30
Appearance: Frankie stands at a small 5 foot even. This is of course taller than most goblins, who average out at about 4 feet to 4'4 feet, but shes far shorter than those of her father's race, as orcs tend to average 6+ feet.
She's unmistakable as a half Goblin however, by her green skin and short darker green hair, her long, pointed ears, and her long, mischievous grin. However, some orc does creep into her features, most notably by the small tusks that jut up from the bottom of the jaw. They're small enough that they're only noticeable when she smiles.
Her face is slightly more attractive than most goblins, with high cheekbones, large orange pupiled eyes, and a slightly upturned button nose. Her hair is mostly unkempt on top with similar bangs that droop down at the top of her jaw, but the back is usually pulled into a small, messy ponytail.
Finally, she sports a handful of golden rings through her ears, as well as a ring through her septum.
Though she could be considered relatively attractive, she's still prone to goblin hyperactivity from time to time which twists her features. In such a state, her eyes and grin seem to grow larger and slightly crazed, but this state is usually one of joyfulness and mischievousness, and rarely ends in injury. Instead, it's more likely to result in mere property damage
Equipment: Frankie is a merchant vessel captain first and foremost. To keep up appearances, she can usually be found wearing a white silken shirt, a big red belt with a golden buckle, and a pair of navy pants that match her captain's coat and tricorn hat.
However, she never really forsook her tribal heritage. When out in the wilds or jn private, she sometimes can be found in her a light, leather and fur top that covers her from half way up her midsection and up to her neck, leaving her midriff and arms exposed. This is coupled with a matching skirt that reaches just above her knees, and finally a pair of wraps that cover her shins and ankles, then wraps around the middle of her feet, leaving the ankles and toes exposed, giving her better purchase when in the brush.
Frankie is an expert with a knife and always has one on her for personal protection, but she is also a great shot with a bow and arrow, having been taught by her mother. Though her father always wanted to teach her how to wield an axe, being an orc, she found that she had trouble with the weight of such weapons, and decided a quick, versatile fighting style would keep her alive longer.
Finally, though not equipment, she owns her own trade ship. A fairly large boat for a goblin, the ship is one part her home, one part transport hauler, and one part store front. She's spent a good few years collecting and trading that the hull of the ship is mostly full of all sorts of goods.
Skills and Abilities: Frankie is a merchant first and foremost. Goblins tended to do most of the trading in her mixed tribe, as the orcs weren't as charismatic nor crafty enough to trade efficiently. The goblins however used their stature and the stereotypes of their kind to their advantage, allowing their trade partners to think they're ripping them off, when the tables are actually turned.
As a half Goblin, Frankie is able to use a handful of tactics from both goblins and larger humanoids, as well as her looks. She's a fair merchant, but has a keen eye for an excellent deal. She's one to take advantage of whatever situation she comes into, and usually ends up on top.
Being the daughter of a goblin ranger and an orc warrior, she also knows how to hunt and fight with great skill, choosing range and a knife as well as her own two hands.
Finally, like most goblins, she is prone to Goblin Hyperactivity. When this occurs, starts to think, speak, and move at great speeds, often running and climbing from one thing to the other, and it usually ends with great joy and mischief as well as likely property damage. There's no time to consider not breaking something when there's fun to be had, stuff to climb, and things to do.
Enemies of the goblins often consider this akin to a berserker frenzy, but those who are friends of the goblins either join in the fun or stay out of the way.
Registered: Jan 9, 2022 23:34:33 GMT -5
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Post by Fran'garaz "Frankie" on Jan 29, 2022 21:28:19 GMT -5
Frankie stands and listens to Naoki, hands back on her hips. Her expression changes slightly between each part of her speech, an eyebrow raise here, a blink of surprise there, but nothing overly egregious. For the most part, she seems perfectly fine with her words. Once she’s finished though, Frankie turns towards her crew and cups her hands around her mouth.
“Ay boy!” she calls out, then sticks to fingers in her mouth and blows a shrill whistle. “Pack ‘er up! We ain’t trading yet! Shut ‘er down!” The goblins look to one another with confusion and surprise, most putting down crates they were carrying. “What, did I stutter? It ain’t the time, put whatever you got back in the hold and sit tight! Situation ain’t what we thought it would be.”
A rumble of grumbles emanates between the menagerie of goblins and half goblins as they begin to pack the crates and stalls away once more. “They ain’t gonna be happy,” Frankie says as she looks back at Naoki. “But they’ve just gotta deal with it for now.”
She gestures to the cat woman with the end of her pipe and continues. “I hate dealin’ with newbies who don’t know what they’re doin’, so colour me glad you’re more experienced than some might think. Now, this ain’t my first roll around either, so when you say I gotta meet you halfway, that’s pretty much what I was gonna do.” She throws a hand out, gesturing towards the settlement. “Your town needs help, and I know we goblins have got a rep for being swindlers and assholes, but I assure you that ain’t us. I ain’t the type to take advantage of these kinds of situations, whatever I come up with will be mutually beneficial. Property, business, industry, I got ideas for all your suggestions.” She grins at the cat woman, pleased that they seem to be on the same boat about the situation.
“As for the debt,” she says, adding some air quotations around ‘debt’. “We’re in agreement there too, I just like to have it in writing that I’d still need paid for my goods, even if it ain’t gonna be cash. Services, barter, goods, we can figure that out later, I just don’t want people to turn around and say I ain’t done nothing to earn it. It’s happened before, and we just met, gotta keep my ass covered, even without some sort of governing figure to say otherwise.” She taps the end of her pipe against her thoughtful lips. “More of a contract than debt, so’s we know exactly what was traded, the current value, and who’s agreein’ to what, so’s nobody comes back a year from now rememberin’ something different when we’re tryin’ to come to a mutually agreeable trade for whatever I give you now.”
The goblin puts her hands on her hips once more as she shifts her attention away from the cat woman and outwards towards The Depravity. “I think I’m gonna like dealing with you, Naoki. You got balls, know what you want, ain’t nobody gonna tell you otherwise. It’s gonna be fun.” She then lets out a low whistle. “Now that’s a fine ship… could move a lotta cargo with it. Vault must be huge too.” She thinks about her own vault down below and the riches she’d accumulated within, but doesn’t feel the need to mention it. “Flagship material. Kinda ship I could have seen myself buying in a few years. The heart of my trade empire.” The half goblin shook her head and muttered something to herself, her long ears swishing through the sea air. “Dreams have gotta change at some point, right?”
“So,” she says, coming out of her regretful thoughts. “Other than wording and misunderstandings, we in business?” She rubs her hands together as the grin returns to her face. “I’ve been six months at sea without the hint of action, and not in the sense you might think, little miss ‘you seem far too spry’.” She offers a wink at that along with her grin.
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Lady Naoki
Dedicated
Roleplay posts: 345
Appearance: Naoki is a curvaceous woman of average height, indeterminate age, and catlike features. Her hair is a dark auburn, often pulled back into a long braid. Her ears are both soft and fluffy, and her tail is never less than perfectly groomed.
Allegiances: New Isra
Place of Residence: Port Argentium
Registered: Mar 16, 2021 22:31:18 GMT -5
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Post by Lady Naoki on Jan 30, 2022 16:15:21 GMT -5
Listening, Naoki nods along with Fran'garaz’s reply. “I see,” she says. They’re certainly on the same boat in several ways. “You seem a fine sort yourself. A trader of inferior character might have insisted on the prices as they were, or put up more of a fuss about trading preserved fruit for my people’s heirloom jewelry and the like.”
At Frankie’s comments on The Depravity, Naoki shakes her head. “Mmmh — maybe, but I wouldn’t. Too big by far. The operating and maintenance costs, the size of the necessary crew merely to sail it — not to mention the marines you’d need to defend it against boarding by smaller craft, offsets the size of the hold immediately and overwhelmingly. The majority of ports don’t have a dock that reaches deep enough for it, and the draft stops it from going up rivers entirely. Managing the contents of its holds was a huge job, even when it was sitting in port for years at a time. It’s been a huge gold-sink since the day construction was started, and had you asked me frankly, the day before the floods, I would have told you a hundred other things that would have been better investments. Full glad am I now that I kept it around, but…” Trailing off, Naoki shrugs.
“For trade, you’re much better off with a vessel like this,” she continues, rapping her knuckles on the ship’s wood. “My Depravity was built for landing invasion armies and taking to the sea in the event of a disaster. It’s served well in both capacities, now, but for the same upfront and magnitudes less in maintenance, you could also establish a wonderful little enclave, armed to the brim, on some little rock out in the ocean and use that as a headquarters instead.” Again, Naoki shrugs. The point is mostly moot, but it’s not every day she meets someone who might empathize with the exuberant upkeep costs of her fleet.
“In any case, yes, I believe we’re in business. There are some minutiae to sort out, and I’d like to have one of my people examine some of these goods before I sign off on them, but yes. I’ll draw up a list and we’ll go from there.” Shifting the ledger to her other hand, Lady Naoki extends her hand to Fran'garaz for shaking.
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Fran'garaz "Frankie"
Established
Roleplay posts: 44
Age: 30
Appearance: Frankie stands at a small 5 foot even. This is of course taller than most goblins, who average out at about 4 feet to 4'4 feet, but shes far shorter than those of her father's race, as orcs tend to average 6+ feet.
She's unmistakable as a half Goblin however, by her green skin and short darker green hair, her long, pointed ears, and her long, mischievous grin. However, some orc does creep into her features, most notably by the small tusks that jut up from the bottom of the jaw. They're small enough that they're only noticeable when she smiles.
Her face is slightly more attractive than most goblins, with high cheekbones, large orange pupiled eyes, and a slightly upturned button nose. Her hair is mostly unkempt on top with similar bangs that droop down at the top of her jaw, but the back is usually pulled into a small, messy ponytail.
Finally, she sports a handful of golden rings through her ears, as well as a ring through her septum.
Though she could be considered relatively attractive, she's still prone to goblin hyperactivity from time to time which twists her features. In such a state, her eyes and grin seem to grow larger and slightly crazed, but this state is usually one of joyfulness and mischievousness, and rarely ends in injury. Instead, it's more likely to result in mere property damage
Equipment: Frankie is a merchant vessel captain first and foremost. To keep up appearances, she can usually be found wearing a white silken shirt, a big red belt with a golden buckle, and a pair of navy pants that match her captain's coat and tricorn hat.
However, she never really forsook her tribal heritage. When out in the wilds or jn private, she sometimes can be found in her a light, leather and fur top that covers her from half way up her midsection and up to her neck, leaving her midriff and arms exposed. This is coupled with a matching skirt that reaches just above her knees, and finally a pair of wraps that cover her shins and ankles, then wraps around the middle of her feet, leaving the ankles and toes exposed, giving her better purchase when in the brush.
Frankie is an expert with a knife and always has one on her for personal protection, but she is also a great shot with a bow and arrow, having been taught by her mother. Though her father always wanted to teach her how to wield an axe, being an orc, she found that she had trouble with the weight of such weapons, and decided a quick, versatile fighting style would keep her alive longer.
Finally, though not equipment, she owns her own trade ship. A fairly large boat for a goblin, the ship is one part her home, one part transport hauler, and one part store front. She's spent a good few years collecting and trading that the hull of the ship is mostly full of all sorts of goods.
Skills and Abilities: Frankie is a merchant first and foremost. Goblins tended to do most of the trading in her mixed tribe, as the orcs weren't as charismatic nor crafty enough to trade efficiently. The goblins however used their stature and the stereotypes of their kind to their advantage, allowing their trade partners to think they're ripping them off, when the tables are actually turned.
As a half Goblin, Frankie is able to use a handful of tactics from both goblins and larger humanoids, as well as her looks. She's a fair merchant, but has a keen eye for an excellent deal. She's one to take advantage of whatever situation she comes into, and usually ends up on top.
Being the daughter of a goblin ranger and an orc warrior, she also knows how to hunt and fight with great skill, choosing range and a knife as well as her own two hands.
Finally, like most goblins, she is prone to Goblin Hyperactivity. When this occurs, starts to think, speak, and move at great speeds, often running and climbing from one thing to the other, and it usually ends with great joy and mischief as well as likely property damage. There's no time to consider not breaking something when there's fun to be had, stuff to climb, and things to do.
Enemies of the goblins often consider this akin to a berserker frenzy, but those who are friends of the goblins either join in the fun or stay out of the way.
Registered: Jan 9, 2022 23:34:33 GMT -5
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Post by Fran'garaz "Frankie" on Jan 30, 2022 21:00:43 GMT -5
"A lesser trader wouldnt understand the situation she finds herself in," Frankie says with a point of her long nailed finger. "I owe my success to being able to adapt and overcome. I'd have failed years ago if I didn't, this situation is no different." She beams with pride as she finds the opportunity to talk herself up. "My old prices don't mean squat anymore and are gonna be adjusted, and while I intended to sell them I've got enough fine heirlooms and jewellery in my hold that I can just keep. Make myself up to be a queen." She pauses, then chuckles. "A green Queen in name for both captain and ship."
Naoki raised several good points about the Depravity, points Fran'garaz had already figured as they spoke, but didn't feel the need to bring them up. When Naoki described them though, she couldn't help but feel a little more respect for the ruler. Someone who knew their way around a ship instead of paying others to do that thinking for her, was due a fellow seafarer's respect. "Probably not worth leaving her out there, huh," she says. "You considered doing what the northlanders do? When they're done they drag their ships into land, flip em, and turn 'em into homes. You could make a palace outta that beaut." Naoki would probably find the tools to cut windows from the hull and to convert the decks inside Frankie's ledger if she were so inclined.
When it came time to make a deal, Frankie took the extended hand and gave it a firm, practiced shake. The art of the handshake was one any trader worth their haul would practice until they had perfected it, and the half goblin was no different. "Pleasure doing business with ya then, Naoki. Since all our business is going through you, feel free to hang onto that copy. I reserve that one for customers, but I gotta ask that you don't write or change anything in it, not without telling me. Gotta make sure it matches my copy at all times, keeping accurate books across the board is important to my operation." She grins at the cat woman. "It ain't anything personal, I'm gonna trust you and all, its just good business practice."
Her hands go back to her hips but the grin never leaves her face. Her teeth are very well maintained, and the two larger lower canines are very telling of her orc second half. "Whenever you're ready for an inspection of our haul, you let us know. I'll have my first mate take your guys around. We've done one hell of a job keeping everything safe and secured, it's all in great condition." She takes a puff on her pipe, savouring the moment of a successful business partnership being made for just a moment.
"Guess without anything left to do, I'll get the crew to start cookin' and preparin' that feast I promised them," she muses. "Got a good haul of fish on our way in. Crack open a cask of the good stuff, get some of the meat outta the ice wraith lockup. The teeth ain't as powerful as they were before, the food'll probably keep another month or two, but I ain't gonna be selling the volume I thought I was." She rubs her chin in thought before looking back up at Naoki. "Feel free to join us later if you wanna sample the foods we brought and some good old fashioned green-skin cooking. Actually, hold on-"
"Ay! Blasko!" She calls over to one of the crane operators, who grunts as he comes to a stop on the controls. "Bring up cask one-three-nine!" The burly goblin nods and shouts down into the hold, relaying the orders.
"One-three-nine is one of our wine casks that we got last time we were up north, Correan special reserve number 4. Consider it a gift and a toast to a fruitful exchange, eh?" As she speaks, a fine barrel of wine is winched up from the hold below, then it's swung around and placed down on the deck. "I can get my guys to transport it with you, if you want. Might give em a chance to take a look around."
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