GM Tribute |
As you settle into your new headquarters in an ample suite on the top floor of the Lakeview Inn with an ample view of the water from a breezy balcony outside, your administrative assistant sets up a desk for Teraldan with military dispatches on them.
The Merchant Clifton Caldwell has purchased an old Castle, Antilles Castle, five miles from Threshold. Evicting the squatters will make Caldwell more favorable to the Duke.
A renegade cleric named Elwyn has been organizing orcs three days ride to the east. Stopping him will make the local clergy more loyal to the Duke.
An elvish Merchant named Sindar needs a package delivered to his partner far to the north. This will build good will for the Feather with his elvish kin.
As soon as one of these missions is selected, it will disappear from the possible missions of the other team.
Maldor Brock |
Maldor stays in the room and looks at the other Tigers. He was too shy to talk to them yet - so he watches and learns what he can...
Niamhaiofe Cu |
Nee looks out over the water and the town, and greets the newcomers as they enter.
A strong woman with a shock of white hair at odds with her obvious youth, Nee is pleasant if a little eager to be friendly. She does however have enough sense to sense when people want to be left alone...
Nee makes a nuisance of herself, badgering the administrative assistant with questions, mostly to do with the relative power of Caldwell and the Clergy...
Any social applicable: 1d20 ⇒ 7
Voting option B. Getting the clergy on side will be useful...
GM - if I purchase and wear a pair of spiked gauntlets, I can still make unarmed attacks with head, feet, elbows, knees etc? More for flavor than mechanics...
Denlin Longarm |
Denlin strides in with his newly reclaimed sword muttering about "thorn? I'll be you don't like thorns. Bah!"
He greets the others "In case you hadn't heard, I'm the hero Denlin Longarm. I don't care what we do, as long as there's fighting to be done. I do like cracking orc skulls though. The more the mullberry, as my great Aunt Molly used to say!"
At this point anyone friendly enough to say a few words will hear a repeat of the story he was telling in the common room to the people at his table.
Denlin hates orcs and would prefer to crack some skulls, but clearing out the castle is fine as well.
Aviari Kyras |
When the party first arrives in the room, Aviari quickly drops her pack on a bunk close to the window or balcony.
"I hope none of you mind if I open a window. I find the air so stuffy in these closed chambers."
Aviari spends much her time out in the balcony, letting the wind toss her golden tresses.
While her ears would mark her an elf, as well as her angular face, Aviari's eyes are an entirely human piercing blue-green.
Aviari is one who is clearly comfortable with silence, and with being alone.
However, she is not shy. She is all too happy to share her thoughts, and even has a habit of talking to herself. She eagerly joins any discussion as to the first assignment the Tigers shall accept.
"I for one look forward to the open road, sleeping beneath the stars, and greener surroundings. A long trek would do us well, and we'd be wise to seek the friendship of the elves."
Voting for the merchant option. This is mainly for the contact with the elves, as well as a long trek through the Wilds.
Teraldan |
"Well met to all of you again" - Teraldan addresses his companions - "In case it was missed earlier, my name is Teraldan, and it is a pleasure to be able to go on such a venture with all of you" - the halfling smiles.
As soon as everyone gets settled in, he takes a look at the papers and dispatches on the desk and turns to the others, listening in on their preferences - "I'm gonna assume Malthor is 'abstaining' for the time being" - he nods towards the snoring dwarf - "Personally I agree with Niamhaiofe - the church holds a lot of sway and respect in the area - making sure its ties to the Duke are strong would be a good way to start"
Casting my vote for B also, so currently it stands:
Merchant Clifton Caldwell: Linndell,
A renegade cleric named Elwyn: Nia, Denlin, Teraldan
An elvish Merchant named Sindar: Aviari
We're missing input regarding this one from Malthor, Maldor and Arya ;)
Turning to his companions who have not yet spoken their will, he continues - "Make sure to voice your opinion friends Maldor and Arya - I believe time to be of the essence in pursuing the tasks laid out before us. What are your thoughts on the direction to take?" - he inquires.
Tribute, what time of day would it be? Morning? Afternoon? Just asking in case people want to purchase additional stuff, though I am poor as can be :D
Maldor Brock |
Astounded that anyone actually wants to hear his opinion, Maldor eagerly replies to Teraldan, "Well, sir, it seems to me that stopping a band of orcs that could hurt innocent people should be our first mission. These others can wait and no-one would be hurt, but if that renegade cleric starts an orc attack, many people could be killed. So that would be my vote. Plus, I think Denlin there really wants to crack some skulls..." He grins and nods to the barbarian playing with his big sword. 8-D
Teraldan |
That makes 4 votes for the renegade cleric and his band of orcs - we are a total of 8, so that makes a majority (sice the other votes are spread). I'm just saying this for the sake of moving things along. Anyone else wanna pipe in? :D
Aviari Kyras |
"Now that Sindar's parcel has been taken, I would be in favor of dealing with the renegade cleric. Maldor makes a good point; a band of orcs is a more immediate danger. This is especially so if they are led by one wielding magical power. What say you, fearless leader?"
Teraldan |
Astounded that anyone actually wants to hear his opinion, Maldor eagerly replies to Teraldan, "Well, sir, it seems to me that stopping a band of orcs that could hurt innocent people should be our first mission. These others can wait and no-one would be hurt, but if that renegade cleric starts an orc attack, many people could be killed. So that would be my vote. Plus, I think Denlin there really wants to crack some skulls..." He grins and nods to the barbarian playing with his big sword. 8-D
"Your reasoning is sound Brock - I would agree that the activities of this cleric would come through as the most threatening at the moment. Yours is a wise vote" - he nods at the man.
Just catching a few winks while I can. I've learned you never know when you'll need a few. As you are in charge I vote you pick and we go.
Teraldan smiles at the dwarven pragmatism - "I would, and I will friend Malthor - I have no qualms in taking a decision, but mother Thorngage had some stern teachings - and not overstepping your boundaries was one. I was giving everyone an opportunity to speak their mind, as we were approached all as equals"
"Now that Sindar's parcel has been taken, I would be in favor of dealing with the renegade cleric. Maldor makes a good point; a band of orcs is a more immediate danger. This is especially so if they are led by one wielding magical power. What say you, fearless leader?"
The halfling stares at Aviari for a few moments, then again smiles - "Very well then" - he stands up - "Let us follow the majority decision - we will investigate this cleric named Elwyn, and the plans he is trying to carry out by associating himself with orcs" - the last word seems to carry some more wight than Teraldan's already stern speech - unusual for halflings, but apparently common for this one.
"We have a three day ride ahead of us - or more than that if we are walking - perhaps we can make the best of the remaining of the morning and try to gather all the information we can regarding the one we will seek, his location, and who knows, maybe even about the orc tribes he may be associating himself with?" - he looks at his companions - "We should also stock up on travelling gear, and make arrangements to leave immediately after an early lunch"
"Haha, let's hunt that cleric down then! Time to get a few extra notches on this blade."
"Well spoken Longarm" - he nods towards the man, then turns to the others - "Are we all in agreement?"
Malthor Goldbottom |
Let's have that lunch! I don't know if I can dig up any information on them being new in town and all. I don't have a horse myself. Things make me nervous. Any idea what they cost? I've only 20ish gold. Otherwise I'm ready to go when everyone else is.
GM Tribute |
Arya returns after checking around in town and relates information and a legend.
The Church of Karmeikos is widespread and popular with the ruling class of the entire Duchy. The Order of Chardastes is quite popular with the common folk. The Order of Chardastes grew out of a 300 year old incident when there where many sites devoted to Traladaran worship. At one of these sites in Marlinev (now the capital Specularum) a sick woman went to pray to get well. A being named Chardastes appeared to her and told her the Traladaran religion of her people was false and that his religion was the true way as he laid hands on her and healed her completely.
On the altar was left a magical bell of ordinary size of pure platinum but lacking a clapper. It rang magically when picked up and became a relic of the converted Church of Karameikos shrine.
Every year on the anniversary of this event, many people flocked to this sanctuary hoping to be healed as the clergy sings sacred words and lifts the magic bell. Many are disappointed, but enough healed to spread the word and the Order of Chardastes has grown and flourished to this day.
Five years ago Elwyn took charge rewarded for his dedication to the church. But, he was seen learning arcane magic and swordplay rather than practicing divine magic. Before heresy charges could be levied, he and the bell disappeared without a trace. For five years no cures have been granted as the Order of Chardastes has many people flocking to a church with no bell, and their numbers have dwindled.
The Feather's administrative assistant adds to the conversation filling you in on recent events. Then a monstrous fortress was rumored to have been built three days ride to the east by this Elwyn. Sherlane wants the fortress investigated, any traces of Elwyn's involvement found, and the BELL located and returned if possible. The Feather has negotiated with the leader and high cleric of this town! Your payment is 1000gp up front to undertake this task, 1000gp for eliminating the fortress as a threat, 1000gp to bring back Elwyn alive, and 1000gp to bring back the BELL!
GM Tribute |
The Feather's factotum, a capable young man in his twenties says:
"You look like folks who just met."
He produces dark violet traveling cloaks with a clasp of silver with a gold tiger on a bright red background and gives one to each of you.
He produces a bag of 1000gp and hands it to the diminutive paladin. "Seems you chose the task with an advance payment. Well done."
Malthor attempts to pay for lunch, but it turns out that all expenses at the Inn have are already paid for. He is tempted to order Sturm's Private Reserve, a strong, expensive ale of high quality favored by dwarves everywhere. The Inn charges ten times more than the lesser ales, but, if it is paid for........
Teraldan |
HOLY cr**, I wasn't expecting that :D
So... How many are we? Should be eight with Arya - is she still on board Tribute?
"This is most fortunate" - Teraldan comments - "And it will go a long way in allowing us to equip properly my friends"
Turning to the factotum, he adds with a bow - "Thank you for this" - he adds, proudly putting on the travelling cloak, and locking the clasp.
If we are still eight, that's 125gold each. If we are down to seven (hope not as we will miss Arya), it will amount to 142,85 gold each.
Denlin Longarm |
After trying on the cloak Denlin nods hi head approvingly. "These should prove handy to sleep on, and help keep the rain off. Anything you want to take care of before we leave little boss? If you'd be willing to share some of that now, I can think of a few ways to spend it. Ha!" he asks Teraldan, gesturing to the up front money.
Arya Muir |
Checking in, misread which group I was in
Well done Teraldan.This jobs seems like a one for a group of heroes. I just hope we are not in over our heads. That parcel job seemed like a good starting quest but nobody sings songs about couriers.
Teraldan |
The halfling nods at his companions, reaching for the bag and splitting the coins equally.
Welcome aboard Arya :D
"Very well then - now that we have this initial funding, let us make haste in acquiring the supplies we may need, gather for a hearty meal at lunch, and depart" - Teraldan smiles - "The road awaits us"
Am finishing up on my purchases - I gotta say these 125 gold have been a godsend for me. Apart from that, am ready to move out.
Malthor Goldbottom |
Are we all buying horses for the journey or is the money going elsewhere? If we all need horses we may be able to get a discount for a bulk purchase if eight are available for us and someone can negotiate for them.
Malthor puts on his new cloak and thinks one should never forgo good ale, never know it may be your last.
One mug of Sturm's Private Reserve please
Teraldan |
"I already possess a mount - he's a well trained war pony named Thunder - he was born in my parent's farm, and we noticed he was different since day one" - Teraldan seems to remind a not so distant past - "He should be in the stables munching on some greens right now"
After dividing the money, he adds - "As for purchasing horses - it would be helpful, but each one of you will know better how to complement your abilities - if a mount is a secondary concern, we'll just adapt our pace to it"
Aviari Kyras |
When the money is first delivered, Aviari's eyes go wide, "That is more coin than I have ever seen in my life," she mumbles.
She quickly regains her composure. "I could purchase a good quality healer's kit with my share. As to the mount, while a horse would be valuable for speeding the journey, I am uneasy about trading coin for a creature raised in captivity. My mule was a feral whose trust and loyalty I earned over time."
Aviari gazes and looks out the wind for a moment, thinking as she watches the river. Without turning away from the view, she continues sharing her thoughts. "Perhaps I could find a suitably wild horse, of good breed and beauty, though less sullied by a life time in captivity. I believe I saw a light mare like that on the edge of the farm lands as I arrived in the city. If I could trade some coin for one like that, I could teach the horse to ride into combat over time, on my own. I am not sure how this would work with a group purchase, however."
Niamhaiofe Cu |
Though Nee's eye likewise bulge at the sight of the proffered coins, the cloak, being less potential, and more real interests her more. She immediately dons the rich apparel.
I'm fine with buying a horse if it will move us quicker - Ni-Cu will overcome her trepidation...
CLW potions - are they 25gp each?
Arya Muir |
Arya uses the advance to buy a horse and relevant gear.
Upon arriving at the stables Arya is reminded of the pony rides she enjoyed as a child. She names her mare Nymeria and feeds her a lump of sugar.
Aviari Kyras |
Aviari ventures out to the edge of the farmlands surrounding Threshold, and finds an old yeoman with a a horse he raised himself. Found as a wild colt, this horse has been trained to ride, but has a tendency to gallop a bit too far, and seems to love feeling the wind blowing in her mane. She is perfect for Aviari!
Aviari returns with the horse Zephyr as a mount, a healer's kit, and other gear purchased for the adventure. With Zephyr saddled, tiger cloak donned, her mule Tarn packed, and gear gathered Aviari is ready to go.
I didn't get any potions, though I do have a healer's kit. Updated Aviari's gear section in profile. The half-elf druid is ready to ride!
Denlin Longarm |
After seeing that everyone else is buying a horse Denlin goes looking and eventually ends up buying a whiny nag for too much from a shifty local. "Flea bag, at least you'll keep me from getting too tired. Let's get out of here!"
Maldor Brock |
Maldor goes with the others and buys a light horse, a bit and bridle, a saddle and some saddle bags. That left him with 39 gold from the advance, which he tucked away in his backpack and belt pouch for spell components later...and maybe some good food and ale when they returned!
Niamhaiofe Cu |
Nee takes advice from local veterans and buys a combat trained horse that won't panic if a less than optimal situation presents. A saddle and saddlebag burns the rest of her advance, she spends some of her own coin for a horse blanket, bit/bridle and feed.
Combat trained Light Horse. Saddle. Saddlebag. Bit/Bridle. Horse Blanket. Feed.
GM Tribute |
If Lindell does not post by Monday you will be given a 'house' rogue by the Feather.
After you purchase your supplies, the friendly factotum of the Feather hires a guide to start you on your journey.
You have traveled far into the wilderness for three days and finally arrive at your destination--the mysterious fortress you suspect may house the mystic bell of Chardastes and harbor the fugitive Elwyn.
Your guide has pointed out the final direction, and you follow a lone path that leads to a clearing in the forest. There before you is an enormous building and it appears to be made out of iron.
Niamhaiofe Cu |
After a long three days ride Nee feels no small amount of discomfiture, and aches in places she didn't know she had. Upon arrival at the fortress she stares in disbelief at the pile composed entirely of iron.
"What manner of being built this place?" she asks no one in particular.
Nee is happy to go second, third or fourth rank.