RP:A Bard for the Kraken
Summary: Alex agrees to perform at The Kraken's Lair on occasion.
Fog Forest Path
The swirling mass continues to draw you deeper and deeper into this eerie place, just as the dense bushes that blocked your path slowly give way. The fog is even deeper here than to the south and completely obscured your legs from the knees down. No longer can you see where the path is below you but the occasional snap of a dried out twig and the absence of stones and tree stumps suggest you are following some dirt track. You could turn east to a gap in the trees or head northwards either way the fog continues to thicken in both directions. If fear of the unseen and unknown has taken grip of you the path south appears much more clearly.
There are a fair number of individuals that would not even consider entering the fog covered forests of Rynvale but there were limited routes across the island to Gamorg. The path through the eerie forests, were the fogs and shadows can easily play tricks on the mind and make individuals believe they are seeing and hearing things that are not really there. Take the other path to Gamorg and a traveller may run the risk encountering one of the dragons that Rynvale is notorious for. Meri is not going to Gamorg, her path is set southward toward the actual city of Rynvale, nor is she leaving Gamorg. Promises, Alex, Meri is good on her word on not venturing to that portion of the island. What she was doing out in the forest? Who knows, but they were on the island of Rynvale which she is known to frequent. So there is at least that much. Would Alex even be able to actually see her well enough to identify her? Likely not, not until they were within feet of each other. Until then Meri was just a figure in the fog, the cause behind the snap of a twig, the crunch of a leaf, another reason a sound is being made in a rather unsettling forest.
Meri, or her author, would come off as unwise in her assumption that the bard's recognition would fail him from any distance though what's far more unsettling is the calmness in his voice when he speaks, "Well, hello there" as his hand takes hold of Meri's free shoulder. The bard sporting a genuine, toothy grin as she would inevitably whip around in a huff. Freshly showered, his hair is pushed back and still damp with a towel rung around his neck and satchel holding a pair of bongo's hung down by his side, his usual animal companions not in sight. It's unclear how the human had managed to sneak up on her with all the brush on the ground but his appearance hints he'd been trying to wash something away - likely the stench of his favorite vacation spot; Gamorg. "Certainly you can smell the dung from here. I thought your nostrils to be to high and mighty for such an offensive sense."
The assumption that she would whip around in a huff is correct, yes. In whipping about, though, her right fist would seek to curve smoothly right for Alex's jaw as his voice is not recognized. She was high, they did not speak for long, these details are easily forgotten. Hopefully Alex will dodge that one, but even if he does manage to do that one her left fist is going to come flying at him next. -This- time she does have full recognition of him and it will be his shoulder that she is looking to punch, no remorse either. She's not the sort of girl that 'hits like a girl'. She can open her own jars, dammit! "The hell, Alex! Don't sneak up on me like that! What the heck is wrong with you!" Maybe Alex had clear recognition of Meri within the fog of the forest but it is clear that she did not have this skill, otherwise she would not have been so easily startled and she might have actually noticed Alex from a distance....thus saving him from her trying to punch him twice. Blue eyes narrow on the man, her temper settling as the beat of her heart returns to a normal pace again, but a few curse words are muttered and grumbled beneath her breath. "Jerk."
Alex is beyond familiar with this neck of the woods and has no complication expecting and dodging Meri's fury of attacks though he does allow the second blow to connect with his shoulder with a bit of surprising force, the widening of his eyes indicating an unexpected implication of pain as he snorts through his nose in entertainment just as he leans forwards with an extended tongue to lick straight up the side of her face leaving an absolutely beautiful trail of saliva. "That's what you obtain when wondering through my neck of the woods, lady with the art like sleeves." His tone is humorous and mocking as if he'd heard jerk as another four lettered word beginning with D. He proceeds toward Rynvale while tugging on her hand to offer a sense of companionship. "You sure you don't want to come the other way? Loads of intoxicating fruit for the sharing and plenty of nine hundred pound bodies to snuggles against for warmth."
Meri steps back, thankfully, and avoids a bulk of that lick, she only ends up with a small trail of that saliva on the side of her face. Sorry, Alex. There is a brief temptation to try and go for punch number three but that temptation is resisted. Alex is able to claim her hand long enough to set Meri into motion but soon after her appendage is pulled back and a brow is lifted, at least boots were still stepping in the direction of Rynvale. "Are you on a mission to try and piss me off tonight? I think you might be." Meri rolls her eyes blatantly at this thought but a smirk soon finds its way across red lips. "Sadly, I was actually hoping that I would run into you sooner over later. But don't get too excited by that thought, hm? I have a question for you, well more like a place I want to show you. In Rynvale." Of course it was in Rynvale. "Are you familiar with the Kraken's Lair?" Same may just call it the Kraken, but it was an establishment found well...near the Kraken Fountain in Rynvale. Presumably this is where Meri is hoping that Alex will accompany her, likely because Meri has some sort of agenda. She usually does, doesn't she?
Alex is amused by Meri's disgust and general dislike of his attitude and temperament, the mainstream reaction to his company by the point and he seems unphased at her aggravation and/or frustration offering only a snicker and wink behind him as he leads the pack closer and closer to Rynvale, the city of... well, I guess it's mainly high elves but let's face it, a lot of damn drunken pirates totally called this place home too and Alex got along with them way better while wailing on a harmonica. "A mission? Hmm..." he ponders a tick or two, "Nah, it's more like my destiny. Every time I close my eyes at night I hear a thunderous voice ring out in my mind, "ALEX! YOU MUST CRAWL BENEATH THE SKIN OF THE WOMAN WHOSE ARM'S CRAWL WITH ART! BENEATH HER FLESH YOU MUST BECKON AND PLEAD FOR IRRITATION! CAUSE HER TO SCRATCH UNTIL A RASH BECOMES A SCAB OF ANNOYANCE AND ONLY THEN MAY YOU LEAVE YOUR MARK!" His amplified cry ringing out through the fog alerting a plethora of beasts and creatures though only demeaning Ogre's laugh breaks the silence to imply the relationship he had with the wandering hunter. "Kraken's lair, eh? Can't say I'm familiar. Though I'd be happy to accompany you so long as you aren't trying to murder me, that is. As devoid of fun and good spirit you are without a hefty supply of powder or booze - which, I've been clean of for several months now - I'm still inclined to help you in whichever way I can simply because..." he pauses to allow several ticks of time before scrunching up his nose and continuing along, "I like you".
Meri is just going to go right ahead and ignore a good chunk of what Alex is saying there, cringing at the way his voice carries through the forest because really? This is a must? Obviously it is part of the plan. Thankfully the two would be out of the forest before long and Meri would steer their path into the port-side town of Rynvale. "Several months now?" Alex is given a bit of side-eye at this comment. What was that scene in Cenril then, Alex? You mean you willingly run around a city like Cenril with no pants on? Truly? These thoughts are not going to be voiced because admittedly Meri does not want the answers. Who knows what Alex is going to come up with! "It is not a mission, no. It's not like this is some exciting adventure. The Kraken used to be more of a saloon." With kind of a seedy reputation, once upon a time. "But times change and it has been given a remodel. In an effort to drive up some hype, wouldn't it be nice to have a bard play there?" Alex was just one of many that Meri knew. "I mean it's not like it is entirely out of your way, just on the other side of the island that you tend to frequent buuuut..." Maybe Alex should see the place before committing to any decisions. Which means they would need to hoof it.
Alex has a certain quality about him and though it is quite an annoying trait, it isn't a bad one. The smirk that presents itself to Meri showcases his amusement to her emotions that splatter across her expression like paint. The human was teasing her, aiming to get a rise out of her both in pay back for the way she just up and left him in their previous meeting and to see if she'd bother sticking around. He also fails to mention that the Ogre's laugh was only a manifestation of the magic in his voice but he backs himself up in his mind by telling himself that Meri had already moved the topic forward and there was no point in dwindling on the past. He listens to her with intent and his demeanor becomes only a slight more somber, his eyes bouncing back and forth between hers unallowing a stable stare of comfort to set in for either party. His head tilted to the side a bit before straightening with a perked back as she explains a bit more detail of the proposal. "I'd love too!" he cries out in interruption before catching himself and calming himself. "I mean, uhm, assuming that the place is of... living condition and all." He motions forward for Meri to lead the way assuming the duo would inspect the property a bit further. If she took lead, he'd fall back to his own thoughts and in turn a smile would curl his lips once again. Alex knew Meri had seen him in Cenril, not because he remembered but because the description of his public indecency had matched her to perfection. He also knew she was aware of the lie that fell from between his teeth and even though she could call him on it, she didn't. The teasing, insulting, bickering and lie hadn't managed to run Meri off. Perhaps now he would trust her and truly listen to what she had to say.
Admittedly, Meri had been trying to ignore that laugh and it may be the reason she is trying to hoof it out of the forest quickly. Alex offers no explanation, Meri is content to not receive one so long as they make it out of the forest without being plucked up by an Ogre. It seems that they will. The path from the forest they were in to the destination Meri was leading them would not be a quick one, but it would not take all day either. The lies were noticed and observed but if Alex wants to convince the world of his sobriety than that was his business, not Meri's. Their route would take them away from the forest, their path would veer east for a time, and then it would finally curve northward. They had effectively walked in a U-shape, thanks to the terrain of an island. "No, Alex, I am trying to downgrade you from where you are presently performing regularly at. " A beat. "I hear you are also offering lessons at the college Brennia has established." The one that was too much of a mouthful for Meri to actually even bother spitting out. It's name was usually reduced to some variation of what Alex just heard. Brennia's college. "Moving on up in the world." Meri ultimately leads the duo toward the fountain with the looming and large statue of a kraken, a creature that is feared and revered. Behind the fountain and often hidden in the shadows is a building, stairs leading up. It is those stairs that Meri points to, indicating that Alex should travel up them.
The Kraken's Lair
The Kraken. Aptly named, not just because this two story building rests within the shadows of the fountain but also because of the behemoth bar which stretches across the southern wall of the establishment. Constructed of black walnut to match the rest of the furniture, the face of a kraken has been etched into the bar and the beast stares ominously out at the patrons who dare to enter. The bar is kept well stocked with a variety of liquor from across the realm and you may find yourself wanting something specific or if you're feeling a bit more adventurous, feel free to ask the bartender for a surprise from a certain city. While the selection of alcohol is sure to delight a wide range of regulars and connoisseurs alike, don't expect a five-star meal if you're hungry. It will be bar food or bust. A giant glass jar of salt water features an upside down shot glass at its bottom, surrounded by a few pieces of copper. A sign nearby reads 'Copper Drop - free shot if your coin lands on the glass'. Aside from this little gimmick, dice and cards can be easily found on tables and it is not uncommon to find patrons engaging in a game of 'Ship, Captain, Crew' or a hand of poker. The western wall features a set of dart boards, the area mostly free of tables and chairs to allow ample room for play without someone losing an eye. Two pool tables, a shuffleboard table and a roulette table have all been given homes around the floor to encourage a bit of socialization. Entertainment seems to be the main goal and while not required, bets are not at all discouraged amongst friends. That in mind, bouncers are present just in case things get out of hand. Tables and chairs have been scattered about the room for those wanting to enjoy a bit of relaxation while an elevated platform along the eastern wall serves as a stage for live performers, adding a bit of ambiance to the establishment. The girls serving food and drink wander the floor offering other services as well- for the right price. But while The Kraken's second story may boast a few rooms for rent by the hour, most of the second floor has been closed off to the public.
Alex cannot contain the laugh that escapes his lips when Meri proclaims him 'moving up in the world' though he is quick to suppress it with a smile. This man hadn't moved from rock bottom in years. The witty and snarky reply loaded on his tongue is disarmed when he beholds the bronze statue of the legendary beast known as the Kraken, a tinge of fear in his heart as he contemplates every actually encountering the beast. Though before he can comment he's being directed to the staircase that leads up to the two story establishment Meri had mentioned in the forest. Providing her only a glance before abiding by the instruction, Alex moves up the stairs and into the bar, the sight something to behold and unfaltering to that small bit of fear he feels in his heart as he finds the decor to compliment the statue outside. "Well then, a place for pirates, boozers, the seedy and the sea sick." A smirk, "No wonder you seem so fond of it." He jokes while moving through the place to run his slender fingers across the fine walnut furniture while unable to divert his eyes from the second Kraken.
Though Meri found the artwork of both statue and bar to be admirable, by now neither of them claimed any amount of fear in Meri. Both fountain and bar were frequent sights for Meri, during the times she is actually on the island. Once they are in the establishment, the woman's booted feet trail after Alex. The bard was given room to explore while Meri followed behind, having already been to this establishment numerous times and feeling no need to take the lead by showing him around. Most important to him was the raised platform that would serve as a stage. "Right, exactly. The boozers and the seedy." This point is made as a look cuts straight toward Alex, if she makes eye contact even better. "Just to be clear though, we do appreciate the seedy folks who frequent this joint to keep their pants on at all time while in public areas." Red lips twist up into a smirk to punctuate her final sentence, someone was making fun. This smirk fades and a brow is lifted, "So we know that this place is to my liking. Is it to your liking enough to leave Gamorg for a performance or two?" In exchange for whatever pay and perks the joint usually offers it's playing musicians, probably the standard unimpressive amount of gold, a free meal, a free beer, and maybe a discount on a room...depending on how well the bard is liked by both employees and customers alike, of course. The bigger the crowd, the better the perks?
Alex is suddenly the one being teased and his grin widens with an audible laugh as he tugs on his pants leg, the recollection of that breezy day fresh in his mind. Her look is caught by his own and the red tint that flushes over his cheeks while he laughs is a small confirmation that the man can indeed feel a tiny bit of embarrassment once in a while. She steers the topic to the perks of a performance and his hand is quickly raised in dismissal to the notion, "I only perform for coin when I'm close to starvation. Despise the stuff to be honest, root of all evil and what not." The truth being that Alex was rather wealthy but often preferred to help others with his riches, the idea of some inanimate object dictating the lives of people a disgusting one to him. "However, I am always grateful for free food, warm or otherwise and am willing to take whatever scraps are thrown my way. Otherwise, I perform for fun. Free of charge." It isn't an offer, it's a statement. Alex wouldn't accept any payment for his services and if they tried, he'd likely toss the coin into the crowd just to watch the chaos unfold. "What kind of music do you have in mind? When I perform for the Ogre's they prefer the heavy beat of the drum to bash their bodies against too while the folks in Kelay often enjoy the sound of a violin, piano or guitar and back home in Frostmaw horns tend to do the trick." He glances around to inspect the surroundings further while his feet carry him about, unable to sit still for even a moment. Picking himself up on the elevated stage he walks the edges as his eyes scurry across the floor to measure up the range. "I assume a shanty is always in style out in these parts. But I'm open to suggestions." Seemingly more comfortable with the bar he turns to look at Meri from the stage, "I'll also require room for three guests. Rattimus, my rat. Adagio, my bear, and Boulder... my Ogre." He smiles but the demand is completely serious. He didn't like to perform without the companionship of Rattimus, supervision of Adagio and... well, for Boulder, he just really wanted to see Meri's reaction as well as not be the only source of entertainment during the opening. Boulder was... quite the character to say the least but not a monster - more like... well, a boulder.
"Get the hell out of here," she comments, to his request that he and his three guests be accommodated. "I am sorry but this is a business and not a zoo." This could be why Alex was accepted in Gamorg! They probably did not mind the company of his companions, not that Meri took offense to the rat and the bear herself. Why, she has even conversed with an ogre once upon a time...! Which mostly consisted of her humoring requests to draw so he did not get upset and lose his temper temper. "This is not even my business, you would have to take that up with the owner of the place." Who is some unnamed NPC at this point. These requests were evidently too lofty for even Meri to commit to. "I just happen to know this place is looking for some music, name dropped you, and the owner said he'd have you if you were interested. So if leaving your companions behind for the night is a deal breaker?" Tattooed shoulders rise and fall in an 'it is what it is' sort of shrug. "Having a bear in here alone is probably enough to rile up some sailors, would not take long before they start talking about what a fine pelt that bear would fetch I bet you. Sometimes it is best to leave our friends in the wildnerness where they belong." Cue another shrug from Meri, as she goes on to explain. "As far as what to play, if you decide to play here, given that most of the customers are travelers? I bet they would like a healthy array of styles and sounds. Never know when something might remind someone of home."
Alex is smiling at Meri's reaction and if he were a man with self respect he'd find himself offended at her remark and absolute denial of entertaining his request, thankfully he had none. His left hand raises to wave away the notion and that's all that is offered on the topic of his companions. He's considering her tune suggestions carefully and nodding with a more serious expression as she makes a valid point of the travelers variety. "Right. Well then, what is the planned date?"
Tattooed shoulders rise and fall in a shrug, for there was no planned date in specific. "I mean I guess that is something that is fairly flexible. It's not like you don't perform at a few locations, no?" And as Meri has already expressed, she herself does not -technically- own this place (though it is the Row HQ so she is allowed to do this! She and Lita wrote this place!). "Just a matter of communication, I suppose." Though if Alex does not actually care about gold and such because he is secretly wealthy, the incentive for repeat performances seems to be minimal. Especially if his friends can't come hang out. Hm. Well, ultimately that is not Meri's problem. The Kraken is looking for musicians and Alex is a bard, she is just trying to connect the dots with faces that she knows. "I am going to leave you here to work out those fine details with the staff of this establishment? I've got places I need to go, people to see, yada yada yada." There is a smile for Alex but barring any final words or reasons for Meri to be delayed, she would head out the door of the Kraken and leave Alex to figuring out the details she doesn't care to concern herself with. Artists. Flaky. Alex should know, musicians are kind of flaky too (likely because they are also artists in their own right).
Alex returns the smile and offers a short wave while watching Meri go and as the blond escapes through the door he turns on his heel to pull a chair out, plop his slender frame into it and kicks his feet up on the edge of the table while balancing the seat on it's hind legs. Blue eyes cover the walls and decorations as a menacing smile spills across his features, "Not a zoo. Sure." he whispers to himself with a chuckle.