Chief Sull responds to Gabriel. "There is indeed. The fastest way back up to the surface lies to the south of our square. It will still take you a few hours to reach it, but it will get you somewhere in the southern portion of the city. However, in order to do that, you'll need to go through another clan of mongrels, traitors, really. They are a bit expansionist for my tastes, and they have been cavorting with other cults for some time now. You'll likely have to take care of the threat before you can move forward.' Sull pauses to collect his breath, then continues. "Given that, the clan is not an immediate threat, so if you need to stay and finish recovering before moving on, you may do so as our guests." He offers what passes for a smile, allowing you to respond.
"Your offer for a place to rest is accommodating, and I am sure we all agree in accepting it" - Akkramar nods - "As for these neighboring mongrels, do you believe they will be immediately hostile towards us? And if I may ask, do you know the nature of these other cults they have been contacting with? It may give us an idea of their overall posture" - the android adds.
Many thanks for your hospitality!
"Your offer for a place to rest is accommodating, and I am sure we all agree in accepting it" - Akkramar nods - "As for these neighboring mongrels, do you believe they will be immediately hostile towards us? And if I may ask, do you know the nature of these other cults they have been contacting with? It may give us an idea of their overall posture" - the android adds.
Chief Sull reaches down into a pouch built into the side of his seat, and pulls out something into the palm of his hand; you cannot yet tell what it was. "I and my scouts have seen several of these 'cultists' running around in the tunnels. They wear the symbols and clothing of the Iomaedae faction, but I had my suspicions. Then, the day before last, one of mine found this on a cultist, not very long after the quakes subsided." Sull opens his hand to reveal a religious symbol, the same one found on those other dead soldiers, indicating Baphomet.
Looking at you with his one good eye, Sull says, "I must ask, but you are free to say no. Are you and yours willing to kill those cultists and mongrels in the southern tunnels for us?"
"Faith allegiances seem to run strong with some of us" - Akkramar retorts - "And while I know others do not immediately share in the same beliefs, our purpose is to gauge what we can offer in terms of cooperation to the Crusader forces" - the android voices carefully, not intending to disclose their main 'mission' in the area fully - "I am not sure any of us had yet equated what our role may now be, after the attack, but it is definitely not in league with followers of the entity that symbol represents, nor its associates"
Looking first around at his traveling companions, he concludes - "Thus, I find no impediment to the path you suggest - either neutralizing or disabling the opposing force"
Turning back to Chief Sull, Akkramar adds - "Would there be the possibility of establishing commercial trading with those from your community? We have come across some items that can perhaps be exchanged, or sold for supplies or other gear. Would this be acceptable from your part?"
If no one has need for rest, let's move.
I would not mind an opportunity to review my program selections. I had not initially planed for spelunking. An opportunity to load an appropriate set of programs and replenish my energy reserves would be of use.
Dakkar starts thinking about what programs he had that would be better for their current situation. Not to mention those injured would do well with some rest.
Contemplating Lann's earlier words in the caves & Chief Sull's words now, Iacobus turns to Lann. "Friend Lann, would this renegade tribe be the same that you spoke of earlier? The allies of those false crusaders whose bodies we found?"
By his furtive demeanor, it is obvious that Iacobus is trying to be covert in his inquiry.
Contemplating Lann's earlier words in the caves & Chief Sull's words now, Iacobus turns to Lann. "Friend Lann, would this renegade tribe be the same that you spoke of earlier? The allies of those false crusaders whose bodies we found?"
By his furtive demeanor, it is obvious that Iacobus is trying to be covert in his inquiry.
"Yes, Iacobus, it would be the same tribe. I've had to deal with a few of those traitors, along with some of their cult friends. That being said, it was only today that I had discovered evidence showing that they were not of Iomaedae." Lann shakes his head in wonderment.
""
"Faith allegiances seem to run strong with some of us" - Akkramar retorts - "And while I know others do not immediately share in the same beliefs, our purpose is to gauge what we can offer in terms of cooperation to the Crusader forces" - the android voices carefully, not intending to disclose their main 'mission' in the area fully - "I am not sure any of us had yet equated what our role may now be, after the attack, but it is definitely not in league with followers of the entity that symbol represents, nor its associates"
Looking first around at his traveling companions, he concludes - "Thus, I find no impediment to the path you suggest - either neutralizing or disabling the opposing force"
Turning back to Chief Sull, Akkramar adds - "Would there be the possibility of establishing commercial trading with those from your community? We have come across some items that can perhaps be exchanged, or sold for supplies or other gear. Would this be acceptable from your part?"
Chief Sull gives this a moment's thought, in great concentration. "I will go one better. My people, of course, will be more than willing to trade with you. However, if you can vanquish those traitors in the tunnels, I can bring the other clans together, and we can even show our support for those above, both in trade and arms. Do you think, upon arriving on the surface, that you can find someone who can speak for the city above in negotiating an agreement?"
""
** spoiler omitted **
"I am glad to hear that you and the 'Strong Man' are willing to fight for us," says the Chief.
Chief Sull looks at you expectantly, wondering if you are considering the implications of what he just said.
Chief Sull gives this a moment's thought, in great concentration. "I will go one better. My people, of course, will be more than willing to trade with you. However, if you can vanquish those traitors in the tunnels, I can bring the other clans together, and we can even show our support for those above, both in trade and arms. Do you think, upon arriving on the surface, that you can find someone who can speak for the city above in negotiating an agreement?"
Akkramar ponders the chief's words for some time - again he reasons to himself he had not pondered their actions once reaching the surface, but at that moment something stirred his circuits, and he found a purpose beyond what had brought him to Kenabres - he would understand why the majestic silver dragon spared him an almost certain cease of existence.
The android found himself answering - "Your offer is much valuable than anything we could barter for. I believe I speak in the name of all when I accept it" - he looks around at his travelling companions.
Certainly. Let us continue, time is of the essence.
"Destroying the mortal servants of demons is next best to destroying the demons themselves. I accept the task, and that you would be willing to help us fight on the surface afterwards is an added bonus. Count me in." Sarasanna adds to the discussion, hefting her halberd, ready for the fight.
Before Chief Sull could respond, Horgus steps forward. Trying to feign a look of interest, he says to the leader, "It's an honor that you wish to trade with us up top. However, while Akkramar here says that he speaks for all, that is not entirely true. Although it is to say that many of his warrior friends would not say anything to his boast. I, on the other hand, and Horgus Grimm, and I would represent the merchants in Kenabres," his face falters, remembering just what had happened up there, but then he goes on, "at least, what would remain of them. In trade ventures, we would need to sit down and work out some details. Perhaps, after my hirelings have taken me back up to the surface so that I may confer with my colleagues, we could then sit down to work out arrangements?"
Chief Sull's face starts to grin in a lopsided way, at least until Horgus spoke up. His face falls and becomes serious again. "Certainly, sir. We can speak of trade, once the traitors have been cleared. Good day to you. You may ask my guards where you can put up your gear if you need to rest. Lann, please remain behind so that we can speak of matters." Sull sits back in his chair, the conversation apparently over.
As each of his newfound companions steps forward to answer the call against villainy, Iacobus' grin grows wider and wider. Boisterously, he claps each of them across the back. To Horgus & Chief Sull's haggling, he pays little heed, instead making his way to assist Anevia & Aravashnial to the resting places provided.
"I have missed... affection," Sarasanna muses as Iacobus claps her on the back as well as the others. Memories of her former life and the camaraderie with the women and men of the Numerian frontier play across her neuro-circuits.
Then another thought forms, "soon, my brother, I shall begin the fight to avenge myself."
Although Sarasanna seems to anticipate the fight her focus quickly returns to the present. She likewise helps the wounded, Anevia in particular, get situated in the camp, showing no further interest in the talk of merchants.
Over the comm Anyone else concerned we are being used to handle house cleaning? I've been listening in while I review my book of programs, but I am concerned that we may be accepting a task greater than our ability to complete.
Dakkar looks to each of his original companions. He packs his things up and makes ready to follow the others.
Akkramar raises an eyebrow at Horgus' words, then after a moment adds - "it was merely an expression master Horgus" - strangely the deferent nomenclature does not come so easily to the android, but still he continues - "I do not pretend to represent Kenabres, or what may be left of it. Yet, as you are free to speak your mind, so am I, and thus I reiterate my intentions and will convey Chief Sull's people as potential allies to any representative of the surface I meet" - he finishes with the usual matter of fact tone.
Turning again to chief Sull, he adds - "Regardless, and since we are not yet on the surface, we would still welcome the immediate possibility of trade and barter with your people, may hasp we can find items to assist us in navigating the underground"
At Iacobus display of agreement, he smiles and nods, acknowledging Sarasanna's words but not reacting to the remark about affection - to the last part he does however respond as he passes her by - "You will not be alone in the fight"
Gabriel seems anxious, and begins to move in place... somersaults and practicing running up walls.
Dakkar nods agreement . He then grins as he realizes that their unspoken communication is likely a surprise to the mongrelmen.
As they move away from the meeting, the android looks for the guards they were indicated - "Well met. Chief Sull informed us we could inquire with you where to rest?" - he asks - "But we also have some equipment to barter - is there somewhere where such transactions can be made?"
As they move away from the meeting, the android looks for the guards they were indicated - "Well met. Chief Sull informed us we could inquire with you where to rest?" - he asks - "But we also have some equipment to barter - is there somewhere where such transactions can be made?"
The guard looks at you, as if appraising your worth. All that's missing is the jeweler's eyepiece. "Yea, we can do some trade, I suppose. Let me know what you have in mind." Suddenly, the mongrelman looks nervous; he looks around for a moment, then stage whispers, making sure that some of the people near you aren't listening. "We know what your 'merchant' friend said to the chief. It likely put him off. However, we have some additional resources that you can use, if you're planning to take on those cultist types up the tunnel there." With this, he gestures in the direction that you are supposed to go.
The guard looks at you, as if appraising your worth. All that's missing is the jeweler's eyepiece. "Yea, we can do some trade, I suppose. Let me know what you have in mind." Suddenly, the mongrelman looks nervous; he looks around for a moment, then stage whispers, making sure that some of the people near you aren't listening. "We know what your 'merchant' friend said to the chief. It likely put him off. However, we have some additional resources that you can use, if you're planning to take on those cultist types up the tunnel there." With this, he gestures in the direction that you are supposed to go.
"During our travels we came across some usable armor and weaponry - we wish to sell them, or barter for provisions"[b] - Akkramar explains - [b]"What master Horgus has said has no impact on the course of action we will take now, so yes, we will be addressing the threat to your community" - he adds.
At the indication of the direction to follw, he offers a short nod - "Thank you" - then moves along.
The group is led to a bazaar, two rows across from each other, and perhaps seven on each row. The guard explains, as he leads you towards the marketplace, that Neathholm is what passes for a trade hub in the underground, with several clans coming on a regular basis to trade. Even the 'traitors,' as Chief Sull called them, would come here on occasion, to trade for food and such. Since the cultists have been spotted, however, trade with them has dwindled to nothing.
A quick glance at the stalls in front of you show that there are many items to choose from, although none are what you would consider 'exceptional' quality, at least from a cursory glance.
"If we want to sell or barter, we need to find some buyer interested in weapons or armor - if direct trade is engaged, what items do you believe should be purchased?" - he asks of the others.
Gabriel let's the others deal with any commerce that needs take place. He currently only had his rudimentary gear. Not to be forlorn...
...it was all he needed.
"Ova' her', gents. I has the fines' weap'ns an' metal you c'n fin' anywheres in the Unnergeround."
The 'man' calling you over to his stall looks the most malformed that you have seen yet. His initial appearance seems very intimidating, yet his hunched shoulders and passive demeanor offset that. That, and he appears to be almost as tall as a dwarf. His stall is also the closest to approximating a shop: while his weapons are laid out on a long table, there are four mannequins total to his sides, holding up some chain mail and leather. While they are certainly not of the finest quality, it does appear that some care has been taken to keep the rust and dirt off of the items.
Akkramar observes first the man, quite intently, as he had never seen such a deformed one - there is no apprehension or hesitation on his face though, but instead mere curiosity. His attention then shifts to the wares on display, and back on the man - "Well met sir, I am Akkramar. I did not catch your name, but we are indeed looking for some possibilities of barter" - he begins - "This is what we have to sell, while interested in buying some other wares" - he places the studded leather, chain shirt and two glaives on the stand.
"For now, we are looking for a shield, and any implements that can assist us in climbing, or otherwise navigate the caves"
Iacobus looks over the 'man's' wares, but it is clear from his demeanor that he has little personal interest in either weapons or armor, though he nods in agreement at Akkramar's mention of climbing gear.
Dakkar waits patiently as the others barter and haggle over the goods displayed.
While Akkramar and any others buy and sell with the merchant, Sarasanna quietly looks at the the armor on the mannequins, comparing its quality with her own.
While Akkramar and any others buy and sell with the merchant, Sarasanna quietly looks at the the armor on the mannequins, comparing its quality with her own.
Akkramar observes first the man, quite intently, as he had never seen such a deformed one - there is no apprehension or hesitation on his face though, but instead mere curiosity. His attention then shifts to the wares on display, and back on the man - "Well met sir, I am Akkramar. I did not catch your name, but we are indeed looking for some possibilities of barter" - he begins - "This is what we have to sell, while interested in buying some other wares" - he places the studded leather, chain shirt and two glaives on the stand.
"For now, we are looking for a shield, and any implements that can assist us in climbing, or otherwise navigate the caves"
The 'person' looks over the items very carefully. Despite his deformities, he does seem rather skilled in his craft, going over each item to look for cracks or other damage to the armors given. He notes with a grunt a line of rusted links along one side of the chain, a buckle starting to come loose of its stitching on the leather, and the lack of padding where the glaives would normally be gripped. He looks up at you and says, "The name's Bor, and I'd offer you say, sevend' gold for the lot? Als', I'm afraid that I don' deal with climbing gear; I guess you coul' say da' I'm just not equipped for the task." His face brightens and he barks out a sharp, yet raspy laugh. "Dere's a guy tree stalls down, goes by Jebbie, who could prob'bly help you beder on da' one."
"The price seems adequate" - Akkramar offers with a nod - "And we will accept it. We will peruse your stall for any items that may interest us, and let us find the terms of the trade in the end" - he adds, turning his attention to the wares, looking for a shield.
"Sarasanna, have you found anything interesting?"
As the others peruse the stall's martial wares, Iacobus wanders through the rest of the marketplace, nodding genially to the citizenry & pursuing small acts of aid & kindness whenever the opportunity arises.
[dice=Perception, armor shopping] 1d20 + 10
"The price seems adequate" - Akkramar offers with a nod - "And we will accept it. We will peruse your stall for any items that may interest us, and let us find the terms of the trade in the end" - he adds, turning his attention to the wares, looking for a shield.
[dice=Perception]d20+7
"Sarasanna, have you found anything interesting?"
Bor reaches into a metal case and pulls out the agreed upon amount. He slides the coins into a small canvas pouch and hands it over. "G'ad to do bidness wit' ya. Come back an'time you got more to sell." He nods his head in lieu of a smile.
As the others peruse the stall's martial wares, Iacobus wanders through the rest of the marketplace, nodding genially to the citizenry & pursuing small acts of aid & kindness whenever the opportunity arises.
"And what about that wooden shield - is it for sale?" - Akkramar asks directly to Bor.