Verin says, "No, don't call me master, sir, or just Verin. These bows are small for folk such as Hemmings here, you may come look at my selection for larger folk, I have a wider selection for you, as business goes. Feel free to look around and touch the bows."
"Crossbows are cumbersome weapons, I care not for them nor do I create them. The MW composite short bow with a pull strength of 2, is 45 pp or an equivalent in gems or precious wood."
Locke thanks the half-orc bartender for another one, "Thank you Crush, no you are not intruding as Arsil has said. "Yes to finding what one is wishing for!" He raises his glass once more to toast with Arsil and Seg.
"I am no Pathfinder though a cleric of healing and love. I take care of my own and those I call friends."
When Hemmings returns Vuvu approaches him
See if you can find me a Pathfinder Pouch would you? Find it and I'll send you with the money.
"With great quality comes great price, can I bargain with you on the composite bow? Or maybe you have something much affordable for a starting one. It will provide a huge help for an adventurer such as me,"
Pardon me in advance for the bad pun as i am sure you have heard it a million time but i can't resist, but you do heal broken hearts? So how does a matchmaker such as yourself finds him here?
Hemmings tries the fancy composite shortbow, but finds he doesn't have the strength to draw it properly. "Nice, but a little tough to draw for lil old me. Not sure I have the muscles to draw any composite bow, on secon' thought. No finely crafted small shortbow then? What's cost to have one made?"
To Vuvu when returned: "Pathfinder Pouch what is that? I can keep my ears to the groun' for one, but can't promise to deliver in this small place. How much you offerin' for one, or are you wantin' the five small fingers discount?"
An excellent toast i dare say. Now all one has to do is find something to look for
Segregius takes a sip of the strange brew, he smiles candidly at the pun, the corner of his eyes creasing perfectly.
Say Locke, how long have you been staying at the Dragon's Draught? Are you a friend of the Captain's? He appears to have a twin but their relationship seems... strange.
I will pay 1,000 gp for it, if you get it for less then you may keep the extra. I would prefer if you did not steal it. It is a small extradimensional bag that holds up to 10lbs.
"So you'll pay 1000 gold for a bag that holds 10 lbs? let me give you my backpack, it holds 10 pounds easy..."
Hemmings scratches his head. "Alright, I ain't promisin' anythin' un'erstand, but I'll see what I can scrounge up."
Hemmings will go to Kirren and Tali and see if this type of bag is known to be available in the community or where one might be found otherwise.
It only weighs a few ounces. And has a few other magical properties. I would not tell Kiren who this is for. And just to be safe, here take this.
He slides the CLW extract, that I assume Hemmings returned back across the table to him.
Verin says, "Well Tyrel, I see that you follow Sarenrae. I could offer you one at 2/3 the price and you get the other 1/3 when you return from your next mission or you pay 1/3 and pay 3/4 price when you return. I see you are looking at the stronger composite bow pulls. Three longbows, a +2, +3, and a +4. A composite longbow is 100gp, make it MW that is another 300gp, then each additional strength bracket more is another 100 gp. So the +4 would be 600 gp. The +2 would be 400 gp. Hemmings I will give you the same deal. Hemmings there are two MW shortbows here, 330 gp for either one."
Kirren tells Hemmings that one could be made...
"No dear Arsil it is a good one and yes I do heal broken hearts. It is hard and typically a long drawn out process but I help others heal all sorts of wounds, be they physical, emotional, or mental. Drake sequestered by services out to this locale, I have been helping and joining a group of adventurers recently. It is funny that you call me a matchmaker, that actually was my previous profession before taking heed of Drake and came here. I have been staying here for the past few weeks. Yes, they do have a strange relationship. Friends you could call us, my services are free for him to help relieve stress." Locke is enjoying himself immeasurably, he looks like he loves to talk about himself, though his eyes barely ever leave the visage of the beauty before him.
"It's a very good deal, thank you for granting the request of a man you just met. I would take the +4 Composite Longbow, here is the 1/3 of the price and the remaining will be paid when I get back."
Verin insists that you carry a stone of his, "Also make sure you don't get any blood on it. Otherwise I will start tracking down your dead corpse, and I don't want to track you down if you are alive, that could get unpleasant. Good luck in your endeavors!"
I am sure you have lots of interesting stories about your old job. Arsil will follow up with perfect casual conversation focusing about and around Locke. in order to include Segregus in the conversation she will talk about the relationships of the gods and specifically of Aroden. Although it is clear that she hardly knows anything about religious order etc she does have an interesting theory that she puts forth for you to discuss: "Aroden willingly sacrifices himself to free humanity from the shackles of the Age of Prophecy.". Of course she would pointed out that while it is a measure of immense faith and testament to follow the belief of a dead god, one couldn't possibly hope to obtain any divine power from it.
Locke continues to ramble on about being a cleric and the orders of many of the stuffy higher ups, then again he left that order years ago. "Well it is entirely possible to gain divine power from the domains of the god, but yes since Aroden would not believe in undeath for himself, there is very little chance that you could gain divine power from Aroden himself. For Aroden is not just dead, but equivalently disintegrated. Though that is all speculation and border lining on politics." As Locke gets animated his hands do some of his talking for him and he seems to be a slightly nervous and opinionated person, a complete change in personality. Then he recognized his change and becomes laid back again though not touching Arsil at all.
By this time Locke has paid for another round after Arsil, that being 9 sp. Locke seems to have a tab with the bartenders.
She pays 1gp and leave the rest for tip.
Since you are working with the pathfinders anything interesting going to happen next?
Segregius pulls out a small wooden statue hanging from a cord at his neck, the carving is simple but potrays without a doubt the symbol of Aroden.
I do not seek the favor of a God. Aroden is dead, but he is not forgotten and His actions are surely worthy of devotion. It seems to me that there is power in faith alone. And while I know that praying to him in times of trouble wont bring about a divine miracle, the strength it gives unto me is often enough. There are many paths to power and faith is one of them, certainly. But not all men are motivated by power or wealth. I have had both, more then most men and from a young age. One day, my father shall die. It might be of old age, sickness or fate, but on that day, I will inherit all of his power and wealth. And so you see, i do not seek those things for I already have them. Aroden represents many things to me, among them the willingness to let go of earthly things and to commit myself to sacrifice. He chuckles Hopefully i have not set up on a path that will lead me to martyrdom.
Seg finishes his drink.
Strong but too sweet i am afraid. I think i might make a switch to mead. Yes, Arsil has the right of it. What does the captain have in mind for us? Are we left on our own, to determine our own fate or did he make plans?
Hemmings also takes a liking to the one of the small MW shortbows.He askes Verin:"Would ya consider this fine silver dagger in partial trade for tha' small bow? It's a little too large for me to use well, but perhaps a fellow like you might use it, eh?"
Later, Hemmings inquires from Kirren:"How would one go 'bout gettin' one made? How much does somthing like that cost a fella?"
Good. I figured you to be good for something. No Don't tell me what you did to get it. I have no desire to vomit. I appreciate your assistance, and hold onto that extract. When we head out you might need it.
Well worth a shot. Take a seat while I count my coin. Keep in mind that, that extract I gave you will be inert in the morning. So if you want to find trouble better do it tonight.
------------
Hey Locke come here! Vuvu shouts at some point when Locke is waiting for a new drink.
"Greatsword in check, an extra ranged check, hmm well I'm ready to go whenever the captain is ready. Time to enjoy a productive day with a nice toast of ale."
"I am not working with pathfinders, though just some adventurers who are working for Drake right now. It looks like we will be heading back to the Fort of the Black Knight, or so it is called. We found Trogs and other creatures about and in it. Nearby was a whole host of zombies, surrounding a nearby town, perhaps we will investigate that as well." Locke says with some enthusiasm.
Verin would accept the silver dagger in trade, taking 200 gp off the cost of the bow. "I can create a bow, though it takes time, you either provide the wood or I find it on my meanderings. You order it to some specificiations, though I let the wood speak to me on how it should be molded. Verin smiles and enjoys talking about his craft.
Lietenant Drake collects Seg, Tyrel, and Arsil on the second day you are at the Dragon's Draught. He lays it out for you, "I would like you to join a group that is looking into a Fort nearby, it is less than a days travel to the Fort. You spoke with Locke, he is in the group with a halfing rogue named Hemmings, a human alchemist named Vuvu, and likely the paladin elf named Tyrel. They are all training for the next two weeks roughly and my pathfinder that they rescued is recovering. Forsend, the pathfinder bard, will be looking for treasure and you will be escorting him and taking care of any nasty surprises. You may take one of two deals, either 150 gp up front and 100 gp when you get back, or an equal share of half of the treasure. Here is the contract for the upcoming expedition. Until then you may enjoy your stay here or around the village. I would not suggest heading out or into the hills for there seems to be a lot of goblin activity. The gobins in the area seems to have a ceremonial spear that their leader keeps on his back, I will pay 75 gp for each spear and extra for what gems you can find. Please ask any questions you have."
If Locke excuses himself from whoever he was entertaining and gets over to Vuvu. "You called sir? Actually I had a question, how many cure light potions can you create for the group with 300 gp?
Well some outdoor exercise will do me some good after all those library research, you can count on me for that expedition to Fort of the black Knight. I'll sign the contract for equal share of treasure. When is Forsend the bard schedule to leave? oh and when you say lots of goblin how many are we talking about?
"Hmm, what is so important there that he really needs to come back? I mean he almost got slain right? Are those goblins beginning to be a nuisance to the town?"
After ordering another ale, and thinking hard,
"I will agree on the equal share of treasure, I will do my best to help you with your goblin infestation problem."
Lieutenant Drake replies to Arsil quiet and collected, "Forsend the Bard will be leaving in less than two weeks, once everyone is done training, I am sure that he will inform each of you personally the night before he is ready to go. Presently the three tribes in the area have been seen moving towards the Dragon's Draught, their main forces should get here in more than two weeks. Each tribe consists of at least 3 dozen goblins. The goblins are normally seen causing mischief in the area but never in these numbers before, my scouts say that the entire tribe is moving not just a raiding party. Forsend is staking every last copper piece to his name to find this treasure, he has been waiting for the Fort to open, he swears a mighty treasure just awaits. I was thinking if the three of you and Locke wanted to go South and thin the herd for a few days that would be most excellent."
Splendid, i'll go for that.After all with a cleric and a big and strong knight i should be safe i am sure.
Forsend meets with each of you individually welcoming you to come to eat with him and the other participants of the expedition. Everyone has already signed a contract at this point with Drake, co-signed by Forsend.
Feel free to describe yourself when you enter the spacious side room left for meetings. Candles light the room with a low burning fire on the opposite side of the door to keep the room warm. It seems that perhaps there was a small meeting before hand as more of you join. Drake sits in front of the fire with Forsend on his right and Locke on his left.
Arsil is a lean 5.8 blond rather stunning (see picture) elven woman, she appears to be rather young (mid twenties). She is wearing a simple white dress at this time, she moves gracefully toward one of the big couch and nods to the three people already inside.
Vuvu pauses does a little math in his head. 12. You are a worldly fellow and despite your bluster, I trust you. I wanted you to take a look at Ash here. He likes to hang out in the fire. He does not get harmed, he just buries his nose in the coals and hangs out happy as a pig in poo.
Come with me quickly.
Vuvu calls to the rest Don't worry I will return him momentarily! Vuvu calls to the others at the bar.
Vuvu leads Locke up stairs and lets Ash lay down in the fire. What do you think? He is neither a creature of magic, or of nature.
I will gladly sign for an equal share and join the goblin hunt. Their very presence threatens every man, woman and child in the region. Besides, the way they panick when they see Priest has always amused me in a sordid kind of way
Segregius walks into the room, he stands tall and straight, his presence is immediately felt. At 6'5", few man stands as tall as he does but with his riding boots on he is nearly 6'7". His hair is long for a man, swept back but otherwise loose. Today he is impeccably shaved, showing a solid chin, wide blue eyes, a nose that was broken but has set in a pleasant way and good cheekbones. Being Chelaxian, his armor bears several ornaments, in this case acid etchings that shows gothic patterns. Underneat a wears a black and red slashed shirt and plain black pants with worn riding patches. His long sword hangs scabbarded at his side from a baldric covered in text etchings. A closer looks reveals them to be the names of man and woman. Taking a few steps into the room, he stops to survey the room taking in each individual person one at a time, the way he smiles makes it seem like such a natural thing to do. The last person he evalutates this way is Arsil. He gives her the old up and down with an unabashed cocked head. She is unded a beautiful sight in that white dress.
He makes his way to sit at the right of Forsend.
Ladies, gentleman He says in a formal way before taking a seat.
Vuvu appears unimpressed with Seg's beauty and trappings.
Vuvu himself is a highly unattractive man, seeming to analyze all the newcomers as a scientist would, potential strenghts and weaknesses.
***In the meeting room***
Locke, seems to be in a good mood, eating nuts.
Drake is serious as always.
Forsend is humming, he appears to be in a very good nature. He stands up when a new person enters says their name and offers them a seat, he goes and pulls a chair for Arsil.
once locke leaves
Well boy. Are you really a shapechanger? Care to show me? Perhaps we can speak.
The dog shakes his head side to side then barks at you.
Why thank you, you are most gracious Forsend she says as he pulls a chair
Vuvu enters the meeting and plops down with a thud. He places a couple potions in Lockes hands. The red one is your special, I will have the rest finished tomorrow.
Vuvu gives a half wave to the table. And buries his nose in a book as is his won't.
Hemmings will make the deal with Verin Cutwright , the silver dagger and 130gp for a MW shortbow. Will update page in a moment. He gets back and finishes up his training.
Hemmings attends the dinner as well. He is a halfling, average height, but a good looking, smiling fellow with nimble fingers and quick movements.
He is friends with Tali one of the staff at the Draught and spends most of the time whispering in the corner at her.
Later, Hemmings inquires from Kirren:"How would one go 'bout gettin' one made? How much does somthing like that cost a fella?"
I was talking with kirren about making a Pathfinder's Pouch to fill Vuvu's order. Anything come of that?
Drake yawns a bit, "We can start the meal, though we will wait for Tyrel to arrive before any business is discussed."
At that a half dozen servers come into the room and drop off a soup for each participant. It has scallops and a spice to it, also a bit creamy.
I am sure Tyrel will post sometime. Though it will be up to him when he pops in for the meal. It is a seven course meal. Any suggestions on dishes that we will see soon enough?
Bananas Foster is a favorite especially with magical fire
Need a soup - lobster bisque is nice
something flambayd (no idea how to spell tgat)
or something healthy
Second dish is a salad with berries and other fruits in with the greens.
Third dish is lobster bisque, with large chunks of lobster in it.
Fourth dish is bread with a creamy goat cheese and cranberries in it.
Fifth is lamb on the rack with a wide variety of grilled vegetables with it.
Sixth dish is a Herring fire cooked, the meat just comes right off the bones.
The final dish is Bananas Foster, each small plate of it has a fire upon it. Each a different color flame.
"Well that was delightful! Too bad the cook is a recluse and wants nothing to do with the living but she can cook a fabulous feast, I must give Kirren my regards." Locke says.
Forsend concurs with Locke, and hums a few lines to a song of some sort. "Well I guess Tyrel was not hungry. Lass would you go and fetch him." He loudly says to the handmaiden at the door.
Drake appears to have eaten way too much, for he leans back and holds his hands over his belly rubbing it.
Vuvu has also overeaten and actually looks a little I'll. He pulls out a few bottles and takes 1 minute exactly to mix and extract which he swallows and immediately he seems to feel better
"My apologies my friends, I was in the middle of daily prayers. The breeze was nice and before I know it, I'm already running late for this meeting."
If asked what dish he wants,
"May I get lamb please,"
The handmaiden goes and gets a slice of lamb with a hearty portion of vegetables for Tyrel.
Drake gets straight to the point, "Now that we are all here. First order of business is to introduce each of you to your new companions. You all know me in a sense, I am lieutenant Drake. I will be running operations closer to the vest while my counterpart takes care of the broader schemes. I may be joining your group or heading up a goblin hunting group. I set two missions before you, first to take out the Black Stick Clan of goblins, and they could already be in your way, getting back to your second mission the Fort. Which you are to protect Forsend and help him find any other treasures that can be found. We will be going around the talble, please introduce yourself and your specialty."
Locke stands up and smiles as he looks around at each of you, "I am Locke Vernariah, you all know me, I am a cleric and I will be doing my best to keep you all alive." His smile gets a little bigger when he sees Arsil. He then sits down waiting for the next person to introduce themself.
The elven woman slowly but gracefully rises from her seat and addresses everyone in a warm crystal voice:
I am called Arsil Dawnsinger a linguist and historian by trade and a follower of the way of the Magi. Its is my pleasure to meet you all. She curtsey before sitting down again.