[IC] Chapter 1 - Concerning Orcs

Gramun responds to Veronica, "oh I don't know him, but he seemed to know why the orcs were in the woods, and that is something I would like solved. Sometimes you just have to go in the direction of the wind, even if the wind smells a bit foul." Gramun takes note of Dennan preparing to go over to the gnome. "He also seems to like sticking his nose in it." He chuckles loudly. "This is reason one of the many reasons, cities never provide a good place of rest." He downs the rest of his ale, mutters a small prayer and scans the room for folks watching the pickpocket, after all there is no guarantee she is at it alone.

The kitten snuggles into the bag after Veronica’s scratch, purring loudly.

The gnome stops talking mid sentence as Dennan speaks in Gnomish. Smiling wide he responds in gnomish "Names Quadon, Quadon Bilge. Well let Ranger! I have long ago come to trust your ilk in my journeys." The pickpocket, now forgotten by the gnome, scowls at Dennan.

"The hills are good as far as I’ve heard. It’s been many years since I’ve been to Gnomes Ferry, I doubt I would recognize the place. I have to say it’s refreshing to hear one speak the language." He smiles before looking back at the map.

"Ranger, I have a commission to make a map of the northern mountains. My patron believes the current maps are lacking in both contemporary information and accuracy. As you know north of Threshold is sparsely populated. But where are my manners, I am a cartographer, a master some might say."

He pauses for effect before continuing. "In your Ranger duties, have you travelled north? This woman here was just telling me about her excursions north and the peoples there, fascinating stuff!" He nods to the pickpocket who shifts uneasily. Those at the table can she her hand absently slipping under her cloak.

"Regardless, we will be leaving in the morning to start our survey. A marvelous adventure, and one to pad my pockets if this patron comes through with the rest." He grins through bright teeth.

"You would think it would be such a simple thing to realize that slavery doesn't work, because you're never going to have someone desiring to actually be a slave. Of course trying to explain that to an orc or an idiot human like this Sir Antonic of yours. And folks wonder why I hide away in the woods." Gramun lifts the tankard of ale once more to his lips only to realize how empty it is. He frowns and turns his attention once more to surveying the room.

The gnome replies to Dennan. "Yes, the best cartographer if I do say so myself. As for orcs, I am sure we will be able to handle ourselves." He smiles.

"A simple thief you say?" The cartographer glances at the woman; who in turn squints at Dennan and the gnome. "Well I thank you for your help in this matter, ranger, I hope to see you again. Unless you are free to accompany me and my colleague on our commission. I don’t know that we would have much to offer, financially."

The pickpocket, reading the room turns toward the door. Another man from one of the booths rises and leaves with her.

Back at the table, the waitress comes back. She’s can relay rumors that some of the garrison had been told to be ready to leave in days, some secret news apparently caused the Baronnes to send out the call to be ready. Though, she is still holding court tomorrow.