Your mission begins in a cramped basement on the grounds of the Grand Lodge in Absalom...
Several hours ago in the middle of the night Venture Captain Drangle Dreng had you awoken, and informed you that you would be having a breakfast meeting with former paracountess Zarta Dralneen.
Arriving at the meeting you find a small, but fancy breakfast laid out, as well as a well dressed halfling in white gloves who greets each of you in turn.
"Welcome, please have a seat and help yourself to the fresh fruit and pastries. Mistress Dralneen will be joining us shortly. In the mean time may I offer you a drink? Tea, coffee, juice?"
|
Thank you, that's really too kind smiles the tiefling woman at the halfling butler
Black tea please, no sugar or honey
She delicately picks her way through the small labyrinth of chairs and tables crammed in to the small room, her digitigrade legs making the maneuvering look more like a precision fighting drill.
She flicks her head back to survey the paintings on the walls, her wavy black hair cascading around her shoulders already escaping the leather thong supposed to keep it tied back. Her well worn scale mail is well cared for but worn and scuffed. Black swirling tattoos, creep down her arms and up her neck as she stops in front of the buffet.
Picking up a plate and hovering her hand over the fruit, she plucks up several delicacies and begins to move towards a chair, before pausing and then reaching back to grab a sweet pastry too.
She winks at the halfling
One has to keep one's strength up...
She sits and delicately begins to devour the no doubt expensive fare, delighting in every bite from her razor sharp teeth as they make short work of the breakfast feast.
|
A man strolls in casually, but upon seeing the woman and the halfing gives each a bow and introduces himself "I'm Nar Ibn Saif, a pleasure to meet you both, who might you be? A pleasant smile across his face appears bemused as he says his name.
He happily sits down and partakes of whatever refreshments are provided, politely conversing with whoever wishes.
|
|
The tiefling woman inclines her head politely to acknowledge the man.
Greetings to you Nar Ibn Saif, I am Valya Sunrider.
with a sweeping gesture of her hand she indicates the chair opposite her at the cramped table
Won't you please join me? I can recommend the starfruit, it's overripe but I feel that's when it tastes best!
After the man sits down she finishes off the last of her pastry and daintily uses a napkin to brush crumbs from her fingers on to the plate.
Have you traveled far?
she tilts her head to await an answer as she sips her tea.
|
|
After grabbing some refreshments, and making sure to find some starfruit, Nar takes a seat.
"Oh, I've been here and there in the recent past, but I'm originally from Qadira so I suppose you could say yes, I have traveled some distance. Yourself?
When he finishes, he takes a bite of the starfruit, and smiles appreciatively.
|
A thin man appearing more age than he really has, entered the room. His light brown hair touches near to his shoulders, he have a thin beard and a serious semblant, as if he was there only for formalize a compromise and go away as soon as possible. The man is wearing a robe with a falcon and a solar disk adorning it, and he approaches to the others there with a polite attitude.
"Good morning, my friends. I'm Tico Marvellos and Drangle Dreng send me here to meet the Paracountess...", he stops talking and look to the tiefling... "sorry for my manners, milady, but are you Mrs. Dralneen?", he looks like disconcerted after tell his final words.
|
Sabi frowns at Valya. Surely she could muster the energy to brew her own tea? Sabi's Tien features and slight stature make him look unimposing, perhaps part of the background. Not too long ago he was washing dishes and doing odd jobs in a place like this. One should show respect.
The others don't seem to have noticed him, secreted as he was in the corner, head down. But one should be polite, so he rises to great the others. They seems so sure of themselves, so confident. Perhaps he will be a great adventurer too, one day. As he stands, he nudges his tattered pack and worn armor further under the table, embarrassed by their low quality.
"Forgive me for not introducing myself earlier. I am Masao Sabiumi. I find this Tien name is too complex for many in the common tongue, so many simply call me 'Sabi'" He bows slightly to each in turn, then returns to his plain pastry and cup of water.
|
|
Upon the entrance of Tico and the surprise appearance of Sabi, Nar stands, he looks to be more or less human but with a sunburn. His shoulder length hair appears almost fire-like and is currently pulled back into a ponytail. He's wearing a mithril chain shirt, with a scimitar at his hip and a well maintained bow slung over a shoulder. A silver pendant sits in the middle of his chest depicting a set of antlers crossed by a single arrow.Hello there Sabi, I'm sorry I missed you among such opulent surroundings. And welcome Tico, I don't believe this is the Ms. Draleen you are seeking, in my experience she tends to stay in the Chelaxian Embassy in Absalom. This is in fact Valya Sunrider and I'm Nar Ibn Saif, but Nar is fine.
|
|
It is okay to be overlooked Sabi decides. It is better than being driven out. Again. He nods slightly as Nar acknowledges him.
Sabi stands, and moves purposefully over to the refreshment table. He pours a cup of dark, steaming liquid and returns to his seat. Tentatively he tries the coffee, makes a face, and puts it down. So bitter! How can these foreigners drink this?
Surreptitiously he folds his index finger over the lip of the cup, and moves hand and cup in a complex flowing motion. He sips at the liquid again and smiles at the clear, refreshing spring water.
|
|
Valya smiles at Nar
Ah it is always nice to meet a fellow adventurer with a few leagues under their belt as opposed to all those that think they are worldy and have never strayed more than a mile from home.
she sips her tea as the thin human approaches the table and addresses them
Ah I fear you are doubly mistaken Mr Marvellos, I am neither the Paracountess, nor do I believe she is married either...
a slight raise of one eyebrow punctuates the 'married' part of the sentence, leaving no doubt to those more experienced pathfinders as to exactly what Valya is alluding to regarding the erstwhile host of this breakfast.
If Valya noticed the frown of the Tian man as he sat quietly in the corner, she does not react, continuing to sip her tea. As he makes his introduction however she turns to him and gives her fully attention.
Greetings Masao Sabiumi, called 'Sabi' by those who cannot master the subtle intricacies of the Tian tongue
she holds his gaze a moment as if weighing his words against his appearance. As he reacts to his cup of coffee, she turns away and smiles once more at Tico.
So good sir, Nar was just discussing his travels, are you the only local among us or are we all pilgrims from other climes?
The white gloved halfling gracefully prepares drinks as requested, quickly cleaning up any spills or crumbs, providing an exquisite level of service.
Zarta of course arrives fashionably late, wearing a low cut black dress more suited to a cocktail party than a breakfast meeting.
"Greetings Pathfinders. I know you are used to receiving your missions from Venture Captains, but I am working on a special project... one that the society as a whole does not believe in."
Zarta pauses for a moment to give the halfling a stern look. The halfling quickly but steadily provides Zarta a drink. She then continues.
"Fortunately Venture Captain Ambrus Valsin" Zarta blushes slightly as she speaks his name "has seen fit to lend me your services for the duration of this mission."
Zarta snaps her fingers and the halfling unfurls a map and tacks it to the wall.
Zarta points to the Emerald Spire as she continues "Here is an Azlanti ruin, known as the Emerald Spire. It's a small ruin, infested by goblins, with odd green walls. I however believe that the spire descends deep underground, hundreds of feet, and that there are many treasures of interest to the society burried there."
Zarta pauses to eat a small scone before continuing.
"I suggest that you make your way to the closest settlement to the Emerald Spire, called Fort Inevitable. I would set your base of operations there, as it is on the Crusader’s Road and are well equipped to supply both adventurers and crusaders alike. The Hellknights that are in charge there do a good job bringing order to an otherwise chaotic region."
Zarta pauses for a moment, almost as if taking a moment to remember a pleasurable moment before continuing once again.
"Paralictor Audara Drovust... She is the commanding officer of the Order of the Pike’s chapter in the Crusader Road region, ruler of the Citadel, high magistrate, tax assessor, director of public works, keeper of the treasury, and chief regulator of business and commerce in the region."
"I would not cross her if I were you. She's ruthless in dealing with lawbreakers, although I hear she can be quite reasonable to those who do follow proper licensing procedures and file regular reports."
At this point the halfing puts a sizable purse on the table, and Zarta speaks once more.
"This should be enough to apply for a license to delve into the Spire. I presume you'll also be assessed a %, a necessary evil at this time. If I am right and this adventure turns out to be profitable it might be worth looking for a less expensive way to get relics out, but that's putting the cart before the halfling."
Zarta leans back and sips her beverage.
"Any questions Pathfinders?"
Fort Inevitable was founded on the village once known as Southwood. After goblins of the Kingdom of Zog were driven off the land 400 years ago, the village of Southwood was established. The village was under constant attacks by bandits until 4681 when a Hellknight decided to protect the village and basically eradicate banditry.
Fort Inevitable was built later by the Hellknights of the Order of the Pike. They have ruled the area with an iron fist for years. Any form of banditry is grounds for arrest, and they maintain a long list of “wanted” or suspected criminals. At a given time, there are around 60 hellknights stationed at Fort Inevitable. There is no difference there between martial law and civil authority. There is a strict curfew, 2 hours after sunset.
Slavery is legal at Fort Inevitable… assuming it is lawful slavery. Anyone caught dealing in illegal slavery is thrown into the pits along the rest. Adventurers are welcome in Fort Inevitable, except that some common actions done by adventurers are often illegal. Most adventurers operating out of Fort Inevitable purchase a letter of warrant in order to comply with the law.
|
|
Nar sits back listening to the Paracountess speak, thinking through his own travels for any useful memories.
I'm no expert in these things but I've met some Hellknights in the past, they follow the law though generally Cheliax's laws. The Order of the Pike tend to be the frontline monster fighters. Decent lot overall. Anything more we should know about Audara before meeting her?
|
|
Sabi listens intently. It is odd the Society would pay for him to travel here to Absalom then again to return him back to where he started. He will never pretend to understand rich people and their money.
Sabi shares what he knows of the Hellknight orders and Fort Inevitable with the others. "These Hellknights are swift and merciless in their ‘justice,’" he concludes.
He turns to the Paracountess. "If there anything further you can tell us about the spire, or the goblins you say may be inhabiting it?"
The Paracountess responds to Sabi
"It is said to have odd green walls as one might expect from the name. Most maps list it as a curiosity, but through extensive research I believe it descends deep underground, a dozen levels or so.
The goblins I'm not even entirely certain of, other rumors include bandits, undead or even giant spiders. Goblins seem the most plausible, but things change in the River Kingdoms. Take your time and get to know the lay of the land, I'm certain the locals at Fort Inevitable have more up to date news and rumors."
|
|
“Wow, well...”, he looks even more embarrassed after Nar and Valya's words.
When the oriental arrives, the cleric greets him, "welcome, Sabi".
Tico enters the room and places his backpack in the ground, close to him "it is heavy", he says while puts one hand on his shoulder, indicating pain there.
He sits on the table and looks interested in hear what the burning man has to say about his travels, when they are interrupted by the Paracountess' arrive.
Tico heard her words carefully, and waited for the right moment to ask her some questions...
"Milady, I'm here to serve you and the Society. I had heard somethings about this organization, the Hellkinghts Orders, but nothing special about their occupation in the River Kingdoms, judging that they are a Chelaxian organization...", he coughs lightly, then continues, "so, as Sabi asked, what can we expect from this commander? And what about the goblins? Maybe they are refugees at that "Emerald Spire", huh? They keep any slaves guarding this place or the city, or makes some other kind of vigilance over there?"
Then he drinks another cup of tea, while look to the others reactions.
The halfling takes a moment to straighten Tico's backback and looks Tico up and down and then adjusts the straps to a more comfortable length.
The halfling then makes sure to refresh everybody's drinks and clears away any plates people are obviously done with.
The Paracountess responds to further questions, pursing her lips slightly as she speaks "I am not... personally familiar with the commander but I would expect her to have a sense of law and order. Tough but fair."
The paracountess pauses for a moment to frown
"Of course, if I still had access to the Imperial Registry it would be a simple matter of pulling her file, but instead I have been granted resources... far sweeter." Zara's frown turns into a grin as she opens her palm and points around the table.
|
|
Tico turns to the halfling "thank you, mr...?" and after he says his name, the cleric smiles to him.
When Zarta answered his questions he pauses for a while, "and what about the slaves, you damned?!", then he smiles to her and asks "granted resources, you said? For what? Of course, if I can know, milady..."
|
|
"I believe she's referring to us, Master Tico. As little as I know of this Society, it is unusual for one who is not an officer to direct an expedition, is it not?"
"No offense intended, of course, honorable Paracountess."
"Of course, there are also the financial resources she has seen fit to provide for use in funding this expedition."
Turning to Zarta, Sabi inclinces his head slightly. "One more question, please, if I may. You mentioned the cost of an exploration license, and graciously provided funds. Can you share any intelligence regarding the typical cost of a license, and what factors, if any, might reduce such cost? You clearly feel that a license is important. If you will indulge my ignorance, what is the cost of exploring without one?"
The halfling will pull out a sheathe of travel papers and lays it gently on the table.
"Mistress Zarta has provided you with transit. You will take a Rahadoumi trading vessel to Cassomir where you will transfer to a river barge who owes Mistress Zarta... a favor. This barge will take you north through the River Kingdoms to Mosswater on the West Sellen River. From there you will need to hike to Fort Inevitable, about a 15 mile trip, over road at least."
Zarta smiles at the resource comment "Why you delectable Pathfinders of course. Sure I miss the Imperial connections, but there's just something more pleasing about flesh than paperwork." Zarta smiles and winks as she runs her hands down her sides.
Answering another question "I'm unfamiliar with the particulars of how Fort Inevitable interacts with the Emerald Spire, but I do know they consider it part of their domain."
Looking at the travel papers you see your ship is scheduled to sail at noon giving you several hours to get anything you want done in Absalom before setting sail.
|
|
Sabi smiles genially, and pretends not to have noticed Tico's barded words.
Sabi smiles again at Zarta's forthrightness. He has little to prepare, and a distraction would be welcome. "I am, of course, completely at your service, milady, should you have ‘questions’ that can only be ‘handled’ in ... a more private setting.
Zarta glances a sly smile at Masao's comment.
|
|
"Thank you for the trust in us and for the answers, milady. Will be a pleasure for us to help you and the Society", "...and the people of that place".
Tico rises from the chair, thanking again the halfling for the tea, he looks to his backpack... he sighs and take it. "Well, see you in the port at the scheduled time, fellows. I hope we'll have a nice trip together".
The cleric pretends not notice the disgusting exchange of glances between Sabi and Zarta, "for Ra...", then he leaves the Paracountess' domains.
|
|
"Well, it was a pleasure to meet you all especially you Ms. Draleen. If you all don't mind I have some seeds to sow before we make our way out of civilization," And with that Nar takes his leave and meets up with the party at the port, where he arrives approximately 15 minutes early.
|
|
Sabi nods knowingly at the Paracountess.
He collects the bag of coins and his portion of the travel documents. "With no objections, I hold this, yes? No one suspect ‘poor Tian worker’ of carrying the party gold, yes? Deception is a great defense."
Seeing no other business, he excuses himself politely, bowing to each of the others in turn, and more deeply to the Paracountess. "I will be in my room, making preparations, should I be required," he says, eyes focused knowingly on Zarta.
With that, he departs, ‘accidentally’ leaving his room key on the table.
Once back in his quarters, he washes in a small basin, magically refilling or cleansing the water as needed. He then shaves the sides of his head clean, and then his chest. Perhaps one day he will be rich enough to afford pleasingly scented oils. His cleansing complete, Sabi wills his small hand towel dry, and relaxes by the window, waiting.
The halfling cleans up the food and beverages efficiently as Zarta heads off to take care of other matters and (un?)fortunately for Masao does not visit.
---
It is no trouble completing your various tasks prior to heading out.
The first leg to Cassomir is quick and uneventful, there you are met by a Razmiran barge captain named Rasadi. Traveling up the Sellen river is slow and takes almost 2 weeks, but the advantages of your unusual barge captain are made obvious when you pass through Razmirian check points without trouble.
Surprisingly Rasadi does not bring you all the way Mosswater, he explains that Orges slaughtered the townsfolk several decades ago and have been occupying the town ever since. He is not particularly surprised that Zarta's intel is out of date, as situations are changing all the time in the River Kingdoms.
Luckily he knows a good spot to make land near the Valley Road and Crusade Road intersection.
He explains it's only a 10 mile walk to Fort Inevitable from here.
|
|
Ah, even this detour is fortunate, as it has brought us closer than originally planned. Alas, such fortune is rarely sustained. It is not surprising that intelligence should change, but to be decades out of date suggests deeper problems. What might be lacking in Zart's intelligence regarding the Fort or the Spire?, Sabi wonders.
A 10-mile walk is easily less than three hours, and even then at a leisurely pace. But given the strife in the area, it might not be wise to be on the road too long.
"What can you tell us of the road to Fort Inevitable? And do you know anything of the Emerald Spire?" Sabi asks Rasadi during the journey.
Sabi nods to the party as they arrive. The trip has surely helped them be, if not friends, then more than brief acquaintances. "Perhaps our best solution is the direct one. Shall we move quickly to the Fort, by road, and secure lodgings there?"
|
|
As we depart the boat Nar adjusts and double checks all his gear making sure everything is in place and with him and makes his way ashore.
Looks like we've got a bit of a hike ahead of us. I'll be happy to stretch out these muscles after that boat ride. I'd suggest we form a small marching party and get on our way. My thought would be to put Valya in the front, myself and Sabi in the middle and Tico in the back, but I'm of course open to suggestions.
Something like this, although definitely non-traditional:
empty |Valya| empty
------------------------
Nar |empty| Sabi
------------------------
empty | Tiko| empty
Rasadi is able to answer a few basic questions "Anywhere within about 10 miles of the Fort is generally safe. They've stung up enough bandits that any bandit with any sense has taken to plundering a bit further afield. I've never been to the fort or the spire though, both are too far inland for my taste."
|
|
Tico was not a fan of sailing trips getting to have many nauseous and vomited several times along the way. "Per Ra, we'll never arrive to this place?"
After they arrives solid ground, the cleric feels relieved.
"Perhaps our best solution is the direct one. Shall we move quickly to the Fort, by road, and secure lodgings there?"
"For sure, my friend. Let's do this as fast as we can."
"Looks like we've got a bit of a hike ahead of us. I'll be happy to stretch out these muscles after that boat ride. I'd suggest we form a small marching party and get on our way. My thought would be to put Valya in the front, myself and Sabi in the middle and Tico in the back, but I'm of course open to suggestions".
"I'm agree with you. Seems honest.", he stops for a moment, then continues "can someone carry this backpack for me, please?", he smiles kindly to his teammates.
|
|
Boats, always with the boats...
Valya's legs, not eminently suited to naval travel, cause her some balancing issues when she gets on board but she bears the discomfort stoicly.
So fort inevitable seems to be the only bastion of civilisation roundabout the Spire. Have any here been that way before know?
She checks her gear as she talks
I've some familiarity with Dagger.ark, but I imagine the two places, whilst geographically close, couldn't be more different...
Responding to the order of march she nods
I am happy to take point, however I think it best if we each carry our own gear Tico...
The road is surprisingly well maintained and fortunately free of bandits, both likely due to Fort Inevitable.
Arriving at Fort inevitable, you are greeted by the following scene.
There is a large timber door, sheathed in iron plates. There are arrow slits and murder holes. There are 2 figures in full hell-knight plate with pikes who are visibly on guard as well as the sound of several more guards from behind the various arrow slits.
A woman with pale skin wearing a breastplate in Hellknight style over red and black robes steps forward out of the gate as your approach.
"I am Maralictor Kiera Wirt, and this is Fort Inevitable. Speak your business travelers." There is a subtle gentleness to her voice.
[spoiler=Perception 20+]You can clearly see the gallows, but they are empty at the moment, just a few ropes blowing in the wind.
|
|
Nar's plan and formation is a sensible one. Sabi suggests he might be better suited for rear guard than Tico. Besides, with Tico's healing abilities, it would be sensible to give him close access to all party members.
Ah very good Sabi, much appreciated. My own backpack is pretty full - just can't seem to ever have enough arrows you know. Tico, I think Valya's got a point, but I can take some of the weight if you need.
empty|Valya|empty
-------------------
Nar |empty |Tico
-------------------
empty|Sabi |empty
As we arrive
Ma'am, I'm Nar Ibn Saif, my compatriots have come from down south to do a bit of exploring on that green tower you have in the woods near here, but we've been informed that we should first stop here to speak with Paralictor Audara Drovust and requisition the necessary permits. Would that be possible?
, if necessary
|
|
Sabi take a moment and looks at Tico's pack. "Perhaps when we secure lodgings, there are some things there that you could leave behind? I intend to do the same."
"Although maybe you could have left that heavy pot in Absolom," Sabi chuckles.
"Still, I think Valya has the right of it. We should carry our own weight for now."
Sabi is pleased that the march is uneventful. He is a bit uncomfortable being back within the reach of the Hellknights, as they are quite intimidating.
Kiera Wirt nods at the explanations but takes a moment to stare you down, her gaze lingering on Sabi for a moment.
She then speaks "You have done well to come to Fort Inevitable first, the Paralictor does not take kindly to 'adventurers' and vigilantes slaying whatever 'villains' they meet and taking their stuff. Around here, we call that murder."
Kiera pulls out what looks like a datebook and consults it before continuing.
"Paralictor Audara Drovust has space in her schedule today at precisely 1 bell past sundown. If you wish to speak with her, I suggest you don't be late."
Kiera will also point out a few helpful places to go.
"Just inside the gate here you will find the town market.
Just across the market, the big red building is Juliver Arms, best inn in Fort Inevitable."
|
|
Kiera Wirt nods at the explanations but takes a moment to stare you down, her gaze lingering on Sabi for a moment.
Sabi gives a friendly, toothy grin in return, and winks at her. Surely this Tian immigrant is what he appears to be: a common laborer in used armor, with no visible weapons.
"Yes, please, it would be well to have an appointment."
"If you please, what is the second-best inn in your fine Fort? Sometimes such places are more comfortable."
Sabi is a bit unused to the opulence of the finer inns, and cringes at the thought of paying premium rates for what amounts to a bed with a roof. Having the meal served warm is a considerable step up from his usual fare. Still, wherever the party chooses to go, he will follow.
----
Whenever we get settled (but before we visit the Paralictor), Sabi suggests splitting the gold into three sacks (30gp/10gp/10gp) as a negotiation tool. It's never the best to pull out a sack and then only give the other party only *some* of what's in it! He has a sack that may be used for this purpose.
|
|
Tico seems disappointed because nobody helps him with his heavy load, and agrees with all of those who said to set the "dispensable" gear free when they arrive in Fort Inevitable.
When they are addressed by the Hellknights, the cleric remained silent while Nar speaks for them. "Juliver Arms. Sounds good.". After they passes through the gates, he pays attention in the people of the city, if they look happy, if there is any apparent slave walking in the streets.
As soon as they have settled (Tico prefers the best inn, but have no problems to go to another one) and Sabi talks his idea about the gold, he don't hesitate, "of course, my friend. We can do it as well, I have no problem with this."
|
|
As the party moves through the guard post and on to the main street, Valya nods in approval at Sabi's suggestion with the sacks of gold
It's a wise idea, good suggestion. Also, as much as I enjoy the feel of a feather bed, if we're after a base of operations and don't know how long we'll be foraying each time, I'd prefer the cheapest we can manage without skimping on security.
Valya looks around to make sure everyone heard her
Let's hunt for a reasonable place and secure lodgings, then we can take a stroll around the town, familiarise ourselves before visiting the Paralictor
She hefts her backpack and watching Tico struggle with his load, sighs and grabs his pack too.
Just till we find an inn, can't have you slowing us down eh?
|
|
"Another thought occurs to me," say Sabi, as the party walks the town streets. "Zarta's intelligence on the area was old. Very old. This may indicate she has few friends here. It may be wise not to mention her as patron until we discover whether her name carries weight for good or ill in these parts."
|
|
This may be a wise decision Sabi, I concur, we should keep our affiliations private if possible. We can be a simple adventuring band, recently formed to explore the Spire.
Valys taps one clawed finger thoughtfully on her lips
In fact we should all agree on a name now so there is no delay when we're asked... perhaps 'The Company of Strangers' or 'The Jade Fellowship'...
she trails off
Really I'm not fussed what is picked, but we should pick something and stick with it
|
|
Just till we find an inn, can't have you slowing us down eh?
Tico thanks the tiefling for her help with his backpack, "thank you for your kindness, milady.", he smiles to her.
Zarta's intelligence on the area was old. Very old. This may indicate she has few friends here. It may be wise not to mention her as patron until we discover whether her name carries weight for good or ill in these parts.
"Seems you are a wise man, Sabi. Is that your first mission for the Society?" the cleric asks, showing curiosity about Sabi's origins and experiences.
In fact we should all agree on a name now so there is no delay when we're asked... perhaps 'The Company of Strangers' or 'The Jade Fellowship'... Really I'm not fussed what is picked, but we should pick something and stick with it.
Tico starts to laugh after Valy's words, then he notices that she was speaking seriously. "Really? Is that really necessary? We just can´t be adventurers here in the name of the Society? All we have to do is not pronounce the Paracountess' name...or not?", he seems contemplative for a while.
Maralictor Kiera Wirt almost smiles at the second best inn question.
"The Helmed Lady, on North way. It is mostly a tap room, but they've been known to make room for travelers."
Maralictor Kiera Wirt will wave you into town to go about your business.
The inside of Fort Inevitable is clean and well maintained. The road is made from cobblestone, there are clearly labeled street signs. Nothing particularly colorful though. Everything is painted in drab muted colors.
This first thing you encounter coming into town is the Gate Market. It's got little booths with mostly foodstuffs for sale. It's busy, but quiet. Rather than having criers to attract shoppers, prices are clearly labeled, although a bit more expensive than you might be used to.
|
|
"I have spent much time traveling, but only recently did the Society offer their invitation."
"What of you, Tico? Surely you've had grand adventures and vast rewards? Those who spoke to me of the Society promised such things."
Sabi responds to Valys as well. "Alas, anything with the name ‘Fellowship’ reminds be too much of an old halfling legend. Truly, any name makes us seem more a band of traveling players or troubadours than adventurers. ‘Nar-Val-Sab-Ti Holdings’ may be as good a name as any." He chuckles. "Or ‘Nar-Val-Sab-Ti, Co.’" Sabi avoids vocalizing his next thought. Although, should we have to incorporate, “Inkabink, Inc.” has a nice cadence,
|
|
"Hmm. Both inns seem about the same distance from the Citadel, for better or worse. Shall we try our luck at 'The Helmed Lady'?"
Sabi marvels at the silent market. How strikingly different from Absalom, or his home in Tien. "The Knights have a more stringent definition of 'order' than other cities, it seems," he mutters quietly. He browses the wares briefly as they pass, seeking nothing in particular.