[@Lauder][@RedDusk][@Ariamis]

[h3][center]~The Docks~[/center][/h3]

Just as the three adventurers were becoming acquainted with each other and deciding that perhaps working together were in their best interests, a commotion was heard from the direction of the Barracks. Several guards dressed in armor of the Baumn Empire made their way through the crowded streets. Most people instinctively gave them their space, as the man at the lead was dressed in ornate black and gold armor, signifying some status among the army. A large, two handed sword rest on his back as he made his way forcefully through the crowd, though he appeared to at least try not to stumble over anyone. He was likely on a tight schedule, and in a hurry to address whatever public issue that was to be had. The black armored soldier walked over to a stack of crates that had been piled by the docks, likely almost ready for transport to somewhere else in the city.

The rather forceful nature of the soldier moving through the crowded street easily made them the center of attention, and the docks hushed at the sight. It was probably a common sight in Oars Rest, at least, this was how the Baumn Empire usually made public announcements in similar fashions.

[b]"Apologies for interrupting your work, sailors and Adventurers, I am certain all of you are quite busy."[/b] He spoke with confidence, and somehow his voice was loud enough to carry almost all the way through the docks. Some sort of enchantment, perhaps. [b]"However, it has come to our attention that a rather tragic incident that happened recently in Oars Rest."[/b] The man speaking removed his red-plumed helmet from his head, revealing a face with aged but sharp features. Friendly blue eyes stared at the mass of people gathered.

[b]"A few days ago, the guard stationed at this end of the Reef Grotto was viciously mauled by some unknown creature."[/b] There was a small murmur of comments that echoed through the crowd. For the most part, they had kept the death of the guard silent until they had figured out what exactly had caused his death. [b]"His body was found halfway through the cavern, half eaten and...I'll spare the public the rest of the details. It has come to our attention that there has also been rumors of things lurking about in the cavern given out by adventurers passing through the area."[/b] He sighed, holding his helm under his arm. [b]"In light of these recent events, we have decided to cut off travel to the outpost of Oars End until we can resolve these issues for your own safety."[/b]

There was obviously some outcry's of protest among some adventurers gathered, and rightly so.

[b]"Now, I realize this is a bit of an inconvenience as it's typically the safest path to Oars End,"[/b] He continued. [b]"As such, we would like this matter to be resolved quickly. The Baumn Empire is looking for a small group of adventurers to go into the Grotto, find whatever creature did this, kill it and report to Captain August at the outpost. There will be a reward of course - equipment and supplies, as well as information we have gathered regarding the surrounding land."[/b] He held out a hand, gesturing towards the group gathered.

[b]"As such, any volunteers from the gathered adventurers present will be given a pass into the Grotto and allowed to continue on their way, as well as compensation for your services. Do note, however, we will only be accepting a handful of outside help."[/b]


[@Superman][@ERode][@Pyromania99]
[h3][center]~Oars Rest~[/center][/h3]

As the tall man, Pheran, and woman with the oversized blade conversed, a loud argument could be heard erupting over the crowd of people. Must have been some argument, really, for it to escalate to shouting that was able to be heard over the normal hustle and bustle of the city. If they happened to look, they would notice a heavy set man dressed in fine blue robes. On his lapel was a badge being proudly worn, a gold falcon emblazoned upon. A badge worn by merchants of some standing within Caededril. Likely this man was from the embassy, doing trade work between the outpost further inland, Oars Rest, and Ailon.

The man who he was arguing with looked to be a seasoned adventurer. A tall, pale skinned man with a spear resting on his back, plate armor covering most of his body with furs of defeated animals sewn into it. Perhaps it was for looks, or he decorating his armor with his trophies. His hands rested on his hips, glaring at the short and somewhat portly merchant.

[b]"And I'm telling [i]you[/i] I'm not pickin' a fight with those trolls. I like my bones in my body, not being crunched on my a woman with a face as ugly as an Illithid."[/b] He growled. The merchant sighed at hearing this, shoulders slumping slightly.

[b]"I'll pay you double what I did for the first shipment!"[/b] He replied, sounding a tad bit desperate, but the spear wielding man had already turned to leave. The merchant took off after him, still trying to convince him to take whatever job he was suggesting. He didn't get far, unfortunately. Thankfully, the confrontation didn't escalate into violence, but the merchant still seemed quite distraught and either unfortunately or fortunately for you, his chasing after the taller adventurer brought him close to the three of them, and his eyes lit up with renewed vigor. It was obvious what he was about to say to the three of them.

[b]"Ah! Y-you three! You're adventurers, aren't you?"[/b] He asked walking up to Ophene, Tetras, and Tsukiko. [b]"If possible, perhaps would your skills be for hire?"[/b]

[color=ed145b][h3][center]~Isabella~[/center][/h3][/color]
[center]Location: Oars Rest[/center]

As soon as she stepped onto the stone path leading towards the square, she noticed the red-plumed helm of a high ranking night pushing through the crowd. Her blood froze in her veins, thinking she had been found. She kept walking however - it wouldn't do her any good to panic. If she looked like she wasn't doing anything wrong, then chances were she would be fine. Plus, it seemed like the knights were there for some other reason entirely. She kept her ears open as she walked away from the docks, heading up the gently sloping street to the town. A murder? She frowned...she would offer her services, but the risks of her being discovered were just too great. She still couldn't be sure the guards here still didn't know about him.

She felt terrible about being unable to potentially help the knights from her homeland, but...she put one foot in front of the other and continued on her way. As much as she wanted to help, she also didn't wish to end up executed because they were closed minded fools. It wouldn't be the knights fault though, they would just be following orders as they should...she allowed herself a small sigh.

And soon enough, she reached the square, passing by a rather gruff looking man with a large spear strapped to his back. She thought nothing of it, only thinking he might be in a bit of a hurry to get somewhere. Instead, she happened to catch the last part of the Merchants offer to three people, and she wasn't the type to turn down helping someone if she could help it...at least she may be able to help this merchant instead of helping find whatever murdered that guard.

[color=ed145b]"Pardon the intrusion, sir."[/color] She interrupted them, voice cool and even. [color=ed145b]"I overheard...what troubles you?"[/color] She gave the others gathered a polite nod in acknowledgement. She didn't know them, but she had no reason not to trust or like them.