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 Recent Posts
Willard and Meera
Spoiler:
Climbing up onto the roof of the inn is easy enough for Willy and he's able to help hoist Meera up as well so they can get a better perspective of the town. Very few other buildings in town are two stories, so there is a clear line of sight as far as you can see in the dim light.
It appears there are at least a few guard patrols moving around the city and several couriers moving from door to door of the public buildings, hammering up some sort of notice before stepping inside, likely giving an announcement of the martial law that is being put in effect. Not many civilians seem to be out on the streets at this point, beyond those who quickly leave the buildings after the couriers enter and swiftly return to their homes. From a distance it is difficult to tell how many guards are at the various stations, but based on silhouettes you would estimate perhaps five men standing before the gatehouse to the keep and perhaps a dozen on patrol in its upper reaches. Most of the towers along the walls look to have about a handful men in or around each of them, with the numbers slightly higher on the keeps towers. Not long after you get to the roof you see the other members of the group leave the tavern and appear to be walking a slow route towards the keep itself. Rest of the group
Spoiler:
Making your way down into the tavern itself, it seems to have almost completely cleared out at this point. It seems the announcement and final questions have been cleared up so all the soldiers have made their way to posts or home to rest, the time for revelry is at an end.
Stepping out onto the street, the keep proper isn't very far from the tavern's entrance, the Blade is in fact the last building on the street before the gate house. Approaching you are able to get a better view: There currently are 5 soldiers stationed out front of the closed gate and you can see another dozen manning the parapets at its top. When moving down the street there don't appear to be many civilians out at this hour, but there is a guard patrol moving around on the street closer to the entrance to town. DM Dice Rolls
Spoiler:
Rest of the group DC 19 Perception check
Spoiler:
Once you leave the tavern you happen to glance up and notice that Willy is crouched on the roof of the tavern peering about. Rest of the group DC 30 Perception check(use the same roll for both)
Spoiler:
Meera is up there with him hidden away.
Trying to listen in on the captain doesn't reveal too much surprising. Rather than giving details of what is to come he simply seems to be assigning guards to new posts, letting them know he will ensuring orders are passed out regularly and that normal meeting schedules will be kept. It looks like he is intending to retire back to the keep as the din of the soldiers begins to settle down.
Bidding goodbye to Ben, the older man gives the two a quick nod of his head, looking a bit nervous over the disturbance though whether that is from the threat of attack, soldiers in the city, or simply the likely disruption of business isn't totally clear. As the pair cross the town as quickly as possible they can see that true to what they were told the gate and both heavy portcullis are closed and a larger number of soldiers patrol the walls than earlier as well as a number moving around town, tacking notices to the front of public buildings before entering to likely deliver similar lines to what was just heard moments before. Entering the Conquerors Blade they find the scene a mass of soldiers, perhaps 40 of them gathered in the room with most standing and speaking among themselves. The heaviest intensity seem to be near a tall man in heavy plate armor who looks to be working to reassure the men and answer any questions they give him. A man in outlandish outdated noble garb sits in the corner watching the procession with interests, what looks like three barmaids have gathered huddled together with fearful looks on their faces, whispering back and forth. In the far corner of the room sits the other three, speaking quickly together in some deep discussion. If Sam or Zarif have Knowledge Nobility DC 12
Spoiler:
The man in the plate armor has a heraldry symbol of a murder of crows on black silk stitched in gold silk. This is the symbol of the baron and likely identifies him as holding high rank in his forces. Sam and Zarif DC 18 Perception
Spoiler:
One of the barmaids keeps her hair drawn down over her cheek but you catch a glimpse beneath of a pretty nasty bruise on the side of her face. Everyone DC 20 Perception
Spoiler:
A dirty man wearing undersized clothes and a cloak that is so long it looks like he would trip over it slips in behind Sam and Zarif a moment after they arrive, making his way through the confusion and up the stairs to the balcony above.
Sam and Zarif would recognize him from the Well.
The crowd is in disarray after the announcement comes and the soldiers seem to split between making their way out to take duty stations and moving in closer to the captain to ask questions. In the middle of the bit of chaos there doesn't seem to be any sort of trouble in slipping through the crowd and making your way up stairs and into private room. Within a few minutes everyone has managed to gather in the bed chamber.
The Blade
Spoiler:
Iridae Spoiler:
It is difficult to judge the captains thoughts on the baron from his speech, but his inflection does indicate a firmness in his words about protecting the town from any outside threat. He's likely a man who takes his duty to the city very seriously. Liandra Spoiler:
The soldiers in the room focus on the captain completely through the speech and appear to view him with the utmost respect. It looks like most of them were caught off guard by the news of an invading force as well, but at least without knowing who the force is or who these allies are they look as if they trust the captain implicitly. The Well
Spoiler:
Ben gives a slight shake of his head and smiles a bit wistfully. "That was a bit of a slip of the tongue and not so much in regards to our Baron. Certainly I am not so pleased about his increased nosiness and would much prefer he mind his own in my tavern, but he's never pressed on me personally in any way. I've had a few run-ins before I got to the Bluff and prefer a bit of a backwater where I don't have to deal with that type but on my terms and since I won this here place some years ago its served me..."
Ben is cut off by a loud wrapping on the wall of the inn near the doorway as if someone were hammering, just as he pushes up to his feet to investigate the door swings open to a soldier standing there, calling out in a loud voice. "Citizens, by order of Baron Vendikson the town of Piren's Bluff is to be sealed as a precaution against military action. If you are a member of the militia please report to Captain Blacklock immediately for your briefing. Business may be maintained as usual within the walls of town, but passage into and out of town has been forbidden. Should you serve in a field that is deemed necessary to the defense effort you will be contacted with instructions on how you may aid your community. Otherwise, please remain off the streets as much as possible and give our soldiers a wide berth so they may fulfill their duties without trouble. Thank you for your time!" As soon as the words are finished the people remaining in the tavern take up a bit of an uproar, tossing around ideas and trying to make guesses about what this threat might be. Most of the townsfolk begin to get up to make their way out, whether to report to this Captain or to simply tend to their own families.
Over a few minutes of time more guards come into the tavern from outside until the room seems almost filled to standing room with the men gathered around the Captain. He can't clearly be seen any longer from where you sit, but after a moment a deep voice is heard through the crowd. "Men, thank you for joining me in such numbers while off duty. Tonight is a bit more than the normal appreciative speech for your service so I am glad that you were all able to make it. The on duty men have already been informed that we are moving onto alert immediately. A hostile force has been spotted by our scouts approaching the city. We expect them to arrive sometime just after dawn if they maintain their speed, which means that as of this moment no one is to come into or out of the city without further notice." "I have been assured that we will have allies against this force, but we will have to hold the walls on our own until they arrive. I have faith in your ability me. We have the high ground here. We have the defensive position and we have plenty of surprises in store for anyone who would assault us! Our patrols and postings are being increased, so expect overtime in the coming days, and men are being stationed with Smaar and Argith to ensure they operate at full capacity. If you have any chips in your gear get it to Smaar now, we are keeping his furnace going full time!" Pausing for a moment he seems to consider, moving from more specific briefing to almost a morale booster. "I don't know what will come in these next days, whether this siege will become a battle or should our allies be able to drive off these foes, but I know there are no men I would rather stand with or trust more. I am counting on you in this time to remain vigilant for enemies both within and without who would seek to bring down our city. Prove yourselves to our baron, and we cannot fail! Now men, you are dismissed. Get some rest tonight, it promises to be a full day tomorrow."
The Well
Spoiler:
Be scratches his chin a bit at the question, glancing over towards the others at the table and when he answers it is more softly spoken this time. "I don't know about real 'trouble' but you may want to be a bit wary and not hang around longer than you need to. Baron's paranoia has been translating into a bit of harassment of strangers lately. Lot more 'questionings' and people getting paid to keep their ears to the ground for anything that could be viewed as trouble. Easy to find something that isn't approved of about just about anyone if you look deep enough, suppose I should know." The Blade
Spoiler:
Over a few minutes of time more guards come into the tavern from outside until the room seems almost filled to standing room with the men gathered around the Captain. He can't clearly be seen any longer from where you sit, but after a moment a deep voice is heard through the crowd. "Men, thank you for joining me in such numbers while off duty. Tonight is a bit more than the normal appreciative speech for your service so I am glad that you were all able to make it. The on duty men have already been informed that we are moving onto alert immediately. A hostile force has been spotted by our scouts approaching the city. We expect them to arrive sometime just after dawn if they maintain their speed, which means that as of this moment no one is to come into or out of the city without further notice." "I have been assured that we will have allies against this force, but we will have to hold the walls on our own until they arrive. I have faith in your ability me. We have the high ground here. We have the defensive position and we have plenty of surprises in store for anyone who would assault us! Our patrols and postings are being increased, so expect overtime in the coming days, and men are being stationed with Smaar and Argith to ensure they operate at full capacity. If you have any chips in your gear get it to Smaar now, we are keeping his furnace going full time!" Pausing for a moment he seems to consider, moving from more specific briefing to almost a morale booster. "I don't know what will come in these next days, whether this siege will become a battle or should our allies be able to drive off these foes, but I know there are no men I would rather stand with or trust more. I am counting on you in this time to remain vigilant for enemies both within and without who would seek to bring down our city. Prove yourselves to our baron, and we cannot fail! Now men, you are dismissed. Get some rest tonight, it promises to be a full day tomorrow."
The Well
Spoiler:
A round of drinks and a few purposefully folded hands does much to enhance the mood of the other players, and none of the peasants seem to notice the look of disdain offered to it. If Ben notices it it is quickly replaced by an equal look of his own at the mention of the soldiers. He speaks openly about them, obviously not caring if they can hear them though whether the two men pick up the sound across the noisy room is questionable.
"Baron runs the town so they are all his men. Damn fools started hanging around here and harassing my clients a few weeks ago. Like I can't handle my own affairs. Pah!" The Well Perception DC:14
Spoiler:
For his noisy entrance, Bumbo ate his meal quietly to himself within the tavern and was very easy to overlook. True to what Ben said about him coming and going often he appears to have left without notice at some point during the card games.
As the group regathers at their table, the door to the tavern opens and a further wave of soldiers press inside, nearly doubling their numbers, most of the new comers taking standing space around those who are gaming at the tables. In the middle of their number is a tall man wearing full plate with a longsword at his hip, strapped to his back a longbow and a shield. He wears a black tabbard trimmed in golden thread holding the design of a murder of crows. The soldiers pay him obvious respect, waiting for him to take a seat as they stand around as if waiting for something, though the man doesn't seem to be in any rush, waiting as one of the barmaids rushes over to him with a pre-readied drink and plate of food. Knowledge: Nobility DC:12
Spoiler:
The Murder of Crows is the Baron's symbol. From the man's armor you would guess he is the head of the local garrison.
The Well
Spoiler:
It seems that beginners luck is quiet a true statement in this instance and while Lucky Ben obviously holds great skill at the game the cards are simply not with him this night.
While Zarif plays a slow and easy game, allowing him to bleed chips into the pot at a leisurely pace Sam seems to be an incredible natural and within a couple of hours has a sizable stack of coin in front of him. Chatting with the other players it seems that most of them have little concern about Cheliax itself, they are a backwater enough colony that even if the rest of the country sees them as important they don't pay much attention to the politics of either country. Ben however speaks of Andoran with a hint of pride, giving a mention that in his younger years he lived in Absalom and is glad to be away from the corruption of the place, even if he is 'stuck in this backwater place bilking miners for change' though that is followed but a mutter about how he seems to be the one bilked tonight. Questions about the baron bring the rest of the table quiet and glancing towards Ben, while he simply gives a snort, his eyes turning towards the two in the corner identified as soldiers earlier, though he doesn't seem to have much more to say on the matter. When asked about the temple of Asmodeus a few of the other players give a bit of a shiver at the idea and Ben just shrugs his shoulders a bit commenting how he's seen worse in lots of places and since the funding didn't come out of his taxes he didn't care. One of the players sort of shamefully pipes in saying that he went there once and that the cleric there, Shiyara, gave him a blessing as part of a simple ritual that just involved naming himself and that ever since he's been finding better ore so they aren't so bad.
Dice Rolls
Spoiler:
Nolan
Spoiler:
Obviously you notice the small armed group of clear outsiders enter the bar(particularly since one of them is approaching you) and you will have noticed the second perception check I had the group make above about one of the barmaids.
Having spent your day talking among the guards and barmaids you will have learned that the soldiers are very on edge for some reason, they are aware that something big is happening and they are expecting to be martialed soon, but don't know why. From the barmaids you will have picked up that Rhaspar(the owner of the inn) has asked them to pay extra attention among customers and pick up what information he can from them.
I wanted to put in my interest in this game, though I will take a day or two to make my character properly. I'm on the experienced end of the scale(more often a DM than player) but have no problem with helping newer players or a DM. There was another in my in person RP group who had been intending to run Kingmaker and got us all fired up about it but then found he would be moving so it never happened. I'd love to get a taste of the campaign here. For my character I am considering someone with a more martial bent, maybe focused on ranged(I've always liked the idea of a fighter who throws daggers because its so different than the norm but I think it could be effective). Whatever class he ends up taking I see him as being a good person with a strong moral code and sense of justice(not necessarily lawful). I'll have this down in actual detail within a day or two, but I thought I'd post what I was considering so others could see it. Also, if people begin posting ideas and there seems to be something sorely lacking in the party I don't have much problem changing. Since I normally DM rather than play I have plenty of built up ideas for different types of characters that I never get to build. Thanks for the consideration and whether I get brought into the game or not, feel free to send me a private message if you have any questions or want suggestions on different methods of running a play by post. Your opening pose was great! Thanks, -Tarlane
The bathing room is communal but able to barred from within, though the tub is effectively serve yourself, a water pump worked to bring water from within and a hearth with a stovetop serving to heat it so the tub can be filled. When the room is looked into it is a simple affair, clean but not overly fancy, two simple beds and several cots stacked against one of the walls with a tall wardrobe and dresser. The rest of the party is led to a table to the side of the room a bit away from the gathered soldiers and their simple games of chance, the din of the inn making softly spoken conversation effectively private. Taking time to look around gives a better view of the assembled locals, almost exclusively they look to be guards or soldiers of the keep, though there are at least a few who appear to be merchants here and there enjoying the drink and food of the finer of the towns taverns. At the bar stands a tall man with dark hair wearing clerical vestments, a holy symbol of Abadar hanging from his neck. Food and the pitchers of drink are brought quickly by one of the taverns three barmaids and when asked about the man in the corner she drops her eyes a bit nervously, speaking softly as if nervous. "Rhasper? Oh, he owns this tavern, sir. I wouldn't speak of him in such terms as that!
Perception DC 13
Spoiler:
The man wearing the symbol of Abadar also has a small sprig of mistletoe hanging from his belt by a bit of yellow ribbon. Perception DC 17
Spoiler:
One of the barmaids seems to be doing her best to keep her face down and hair covering it but she has quite a black eye.
The Well
Spoiler:
The few men at the table smile and nod when you move to join them, motioning towards open chairs for you. Within a few minutes Lucky Ben finishes up passing out a few drinks and slips over to take a spot at the table as well.
Keeping an eye on the other two new arrivals, they seem to have returned their attention to their drinks and own conversation now that you have settled in with the locals.
A stone building looms over the surrounding homes and shops, rivaled only by the temple across the street. A peaked roof sports a massive chimney merrily exhaling clouds of smoke heavy with the pleasant odor of roasting meat. Fiendish suits of armor stand guard next to the wide entrance of a place that a wooden sign over the door names “The Conqueror’s Blade.” Inside the building is a well made tavern, fancifully decorated. Several dozen people are gathered around various tables, the majority of which seem to be soldiers or guards. About half the guards seem to be playing cards or dice, calling out raucously, while the other half appear to be simply watching the others play as if waiting here for something. In the corner of the room sits a human man dressed a bit pompously in brightly colored court garb that looks a bit out of date, his stringy black hair slicked back with scented wax and he looks over the various people in the tavern. Once inside one of the three barmaids nods towards you, but seems busy enough so as not to direct you to a table, leaving you in peace until you call to them for your order. The tavern has a flight of stairs that run to a second floor, looking as if it likely has rooms to rent.
Spoiler:
Lucky Ben nods over towards a table where a few people sit playing cards. "Poker is the main game. Things normally quiet down about this time and I sit down and get a good game going. You don't need nothing to be welcomed in for a hand than that full purse of yours!"
While he is watched, Bumbo doesn't seem to pay too much specific attention to anything, simply finding a seat at a table and sitting with his head back as if he were blankly following the lines of the rafters with his gaze while waiting for some food to be dropped off. The Blade
Spoiler:
While the discussion is held between you about arrangements for the evening the barmaid speaks to the man in the corner of the room, giving him the coin she was handed. She returns several minutes later with three different keys and a lock as requested. Flashing a smile she points to doors along one wall of the balcony. "Your rooms are right there and should be very comfortable, all next to each other. Please do tell me if you need..."
She trails off as a tall man with long dark hair enters the building, flanked by several other guards. The man wears full plate and has a longsword at his side, a longbow strapped over his back. He wears a tabard with a murder of crows stitched onto it in golden thread and makes his way over to a table amidst the various guards who set down their cards for the moment to focus their attention on them. The barmaid bites her lip lightly for a moment, giving a small nod towards his table. "If you will excuse me, sir. I must attend to the captain." The Blade Knowledge Nobility DC 12
Spoiler:
The murder of crows is the Baron's symbol.
I'm a huge herolab fanboy though there is a cost associated with it. You can net basically every Paizo book with it and overall it is very user friendly and you can put out great results(whether char sheets, statblocks or in bbcode for play-by-post).
The Well
Spoiler:
Lucky Ben returns your grin and nods his head a bit. "Fair enough. I don't water my ale like so many of the alehouses you'll find in big cities. I figure if you break even on the cup you'll make the coin at the tables, eh?"
He nods his head at that and then glances back up towards the cloaked man indicated. "Who, Bumbo? He works with Shenk running the kennels, probably for the best. He's Vendikson's nephew but doesn't have much of a brain in his head. Wanders around a lot but doesn't get into much trouble so he's pretty much left in peace." The Blade
Spoiler:
Looking between the two girls the barmaid gives a quick nod. "Three rooms and there will two more guests? I can fetch the keys for you of course. The rate is 5 silver each room per night, or a full gold for a private lock. A meal is included with the room of course."
Tweiford turns back to the group, tilting his head a bit "The Conqueror's Blade is a higher end establishment, more likely to have what you are looking for in comforts. The Dead Well is a bit more personable of a place to me. I personally like the Lodge Myself, it is where I spend the free time I have, but Tandifor is a picky sort and doesn't often welcome those who aren't a woodsy sort."
Tweiford nods his head at that, looking over the dog. "He seems well enough behaved. It will be a gold a week to have him kenneled here and I can promise he'll have the best care possible. Good food, he'll have his own house and proper attention. Bumbo back there may not be the brightest but he's good with the animals and I'll be there to keep an eye on it personally."
Hugh
Spoiler:
When you detect evil, you don't spot anything from Tweiford but Bumbo does detect as evil. The animals in the yard are beautifully well tended to, all look to be pureblooded mastiffs and are enormous. There look to be five dogs total along with a few pups. When Meera asks about the services he glances back towards the other and nods to him. "Put the dogs to bed, Bumbo. I'll handle this." The younger man gives a bit of a dopey nod though he keeps a wary eye on the group as he moves and starts to lead the dogs each into their own large doghouse, all the pups crowding in with one of the others before he makes his way to what amounts to a lean-to against the main shack. Moving inside and pulling a curtain across the entrance you can see him peeking out and keeping an eye on you all. The owner gives a small smile, looking down towards the dog at Meera's side. "That is a fine animal you have there. Are you looking for kenneling or training? To kennel is a gold a week. Training depends on the difficulty of what needs be taught." He pauses as if realizing he is paying more attention to the animal than the people and glances up to the group. "The name is Tweiford Shenk and I maintain the kennels here. Raise the best dogs in... Well as far as I have ever seen."
The Blade
Spoiler:
The barmaid nods her head a bit, seeming to accept the explanation evently before flashing a smile back to Omaz. "A pleasure to meet you both and thank you, sir, you really are too kind. I don't know that my problems are something which can so easily be solved. There isn't much work here and Rhaspar isn't one I would wish to be on the wrong side of..." At the question about the room she brightens and steps back to the table with a smile. "You intend to stay the night then? I can certainly help you." She looks for a moment to the kind fighter and then towards the two who accompany him, asking softly "How many rooms would you be needing?" The Well
Spoiler:
Lucky Ben makes his way back over to the table when motioned for, bringing a pitcher though he just holds it as he looks down at the two mugs which still are mostly filled. He raises a brow, glancing towards the pair in the corner with a curled lip of displeasure. "Who, them? Nah, you wouldn't know them unless you worked around here. Just a couple guard flunkies that Vendikon things its worth paying to sit around and get drunk harassing my customers rather than doing any actual work. Not like everyone in a town this size doesn't know who they are anyway so I don't know what he expects to get out of them."
He pauses a moment and glances again from the pitcher to the mugs. "Something wrong with the booze? If you don't drink up how am I supposed to earn my name in cards? He flashes a bit of a grin at that.
The Blade
Spoiler:
The girl gives a small shake of her head as she finishes wiping down the table, stepping back a bit as if trying to come up with some further reason to remain there if she is to continue talking. "I... I don't know, sir. He's been asking lots of questions lately is all, I just should know better than bringing something pointless that wastes his time."
She gives a small smile to the fighter after the two of you have tried to be kind to her, adding "I have no doubt that there is plenty interesting about you, sir..." Pausing a moment she glances back towards the man in the corner before looking back to you three. "I should get back to work if you don't need anything more."
Making your way towards the back of the town in order to kennel the animal the group is able to talk over their plans a bit, though there hasn't been any set plans given for where you are to stay or order of your actions. Crouched in the shadows of the tall northern wall of the keep proper, a humble shack occupies one corner of an open yard surrounded by a crooked iron fence. A row of doghouses lines the western side of the yard, while kennels occupy the space along the fence opposite them. Several mastiffs wearing spiked iron collars roam the yard, masters of their small patch of land, while younger ones pace back and forth within the confines of the kennels. A sign fastened to the gate in the southern portion of the fence reads, “Shenk’s Dog Yard.” In the dusk light two people are out trying to hurry and finish feeding the dogs and getting them tended to for the night. One is a young man, dressed in dirty undersized clothes with a long brightly colored cloak that he keeps tripping over as he moves around the yard. The other is a tall dusky skinned human wearing thick leathers with a dagger on his belt. As the group approach he turns and moves over to the fence, tilting his head a bit. "Greetings, outsiders. What I can I do for you?"
Our new player should be posting up here to introduce himself soon, he said that he's finishing up his character now. On to the money, realistically a lot of what you are going to be spending on in town will probably be minor things or stuff that helps the group as a whole(bribes, potions, dealing with people, picking up gear you decide you need to get into the keep) so as long as we know where it is things don't even have to be totally split up. I leave those things in the groups hands with whatever they feel comfortable with and I realize most of your characters are somewhat mercenary and so trying to make sure they get evenly paid has importance. However as long as everyone agrees with such purchases and there aren't problems with giving things to those who could most use them we shouldn't have too much trouble since you will be together through both modules. Edit: Ah, he beat me to it. Welcome.
The Well
Spoiler:
When the newcomer enters the two men spare him a quick glance but then seem to be attempting to subtly returning their attention to you while keeping up a bit of quiet conversation between them. Whoever the new arrival is, for all his garish appearance the locals seem quite used to him and don't pay him much mind. The Blade
Spoiler:
The barmaid blushes a bit at Iridae's stammered request, the oracles own awkwardness seeming to do much to put her at ease. She spares a quick glance towards the fancily dressed man in the corner before turning her focus to wiping down the table, speaking softly as she does.
"Its nothing, truly, Miss... Just spoke a bit without much thought is all. Rhasper has been wanting us paying extra attention to the passer-bys for some reason lately, but he's not one to tolerate rumors or wasting his time. I should 'ave minded my tongue better..."
As the wagon approaches the gate the guards call for it to stop. Three of the guards are dressed in heavy chain with spears in hand and crossbows over their backs, the last who must be a superior of some sort has a breastplate over his chain and a longsword at his belt in addition to the other weapons. Approaching it seems obvious that he knows Gaskar and speaking to him for a moment. It seems he is giving him a hard time about being late and the terrible old food they have had to eat in the last week while waiting delivery. Keeping even, the merchant talks to him for a moment, promising that the 'Bounty' will soon be well stocked and tossing him a fresh apple from the back of the wagon in demonstration which seems to be enough for the guard and he calls to the others to open the gate. Once inside, Gaskar looks to each of you and then nods down Keep Road. "I need to drop my goods at the Forest Bounty. If you don't mind I intend to unload quick and get out of town..." He clears his throat a bit before adding. "I have no wish to be here in the morning. I should be safe enough in the town walls and the Tuckets are good people. They will no doubt help me unload if you all have places to be."
The Blade
Spoiler:
The barmaid nods to the group, fetching the two ale's requested and bringing it to the table. Now that attention has been brought to it, its easy to see the solid bruise on the side of her face mostly hidden by hair. As she sets down the mugs and Omaz asks his question she flushes darkly and turns her face away, doing her best to better cover the mark. In response she gives a small murmur "There was just some trouble the other day, I managed to get in the way is all." The Well
Spoiler:
The man nods his head and moves over to fetch the two mugs of ale, bringing them to your table once you have settled in. He flashes you a smile, tipping his head a bit towards the pair. "Welcome to my establishment. Name is 'Lucky' Ben Willhuff. If you need anything else, give me a call. Once things settle down maybe you'll join in a game of cards, eh?" He grins a bit at that before moving to help other customers.
For their part, the two in corner seem to continue to go about their drinks, talking quietly between each other, but particularly with attention drawn to it they seem to be focusing a good deal on the two of you. After a few moments the door to the tavern swings open an a tall young man enters making quite a sight, though few of the others seem to pay much attention to him. His clothes are filthy and he wears an extravagantly colored cloak that is far too long which he trips on as he makes his way over to a table.
Packing up and setting out just after dawn the first day of the trip is extremely easy going, riding through rolling hills and beautiful farmland. The second day gets harder as you enter the mountains, though being on horseback makes things easier on your legs at least. By the afternoon the trail is steep enough that the horses are obviously straining to bring the wagon up and when the town is sighted not long before nightfall its a relief. Gaskar for his part proves an amiable companion on the trip. A consummate salesman he has a knack for reading people well enough to put them at ease and spends much of the journey telling stories of his travels which in his youth were quite extensive. Stopping far enough away that the high stone walls of the town can be seen where it sits tucked in a natural cove of the mountain, surrounded on three sides by sheer cliffs rising up to the peaks above. While the trail has been lightly wooded the area immediately around the town is cleared to give the men(from the distance it appears there are at least several in each tower) plenty of time to leave any approaching force riddled with arrows. The single entrance into town is a solidly built gatehouse complete with portcullis, a group of 4 guards waits outside, greeting the small trickle of miners returning from their day's work. Just beyond the town the trail narrows sharply along one of the mountain's walls, a perfect place to barricade and hold the trail against large numbers, the fact that makes this village so important.
Dead Well
Spoiler:
A two-story construction of stone and timber towers above the rooftops of nearby buildings and rivals the watchtowers for prominence. A sign near its entrance depicts a stone well surrounded by weeds. Bronze letters affixed to the sign above the picture read “The Dead Well.”
Long-railed hitching posts frame a wide stoop and tall, narrow pine doors providing entrance into the inn. Wood smoke wafts from stone chimneys rising from the steep, wood-shake roof, carrying the promise of warmth and a hot meal within. Inside the building is a large tavern built around what looks to be a dried out well. About a dozen peasants sit at scattered tables around the large room sipping from what looks like watery ale. Two doors sit behind the bar, likely leading to a kitchen or private room of the staff. A flight of stairs leads up to a balcony that runs around the entire length of the building offering access to a handful of rent-able rooms. An elderly man with a dagger at his hip wearing an apron moves from table to table, speaking quickly to the various customers and dropping off a mug here and there. When he see's you enter the man gives a small nod of his head and motions towards a table, sizing you up with sharp eyes. "Welcome to the Well. What can I get you?" Sense Motive DC 20(for those in the Dead Well)
Spoiler:
While most people in the room turn to pay attention to strangers as they enter, two sitting in the corner seem to pay particular attention to you. Their hands touch the hip of their tunic comfortably as if either accustomed to weapons or having some beneath the loose clothing. Conqueror's Blade
Spoiler:
A stone building looms over the surrounding homes and shops, rivaled only by the temple across the street. A peaked roof sports a massive chimney merrily exhaling clouds of smoke heavy with the pleasant odor of roasting meat. Fiendish suits of armor stand guard next to the wide entrance of a place that a wooden sign over the door names “The Conqueror’s Blade.”
Inside the building is a well made tavern, fancifully decorated. Several dozen people are gathered around various tables, the majority of which seem to be soldiers or guards. About half the guards seem to be playing cards or dice, calling out raucously, while the other half appear to be simply watching the others play as if waiting here for something. In the corner of the room sits a human man dressed a bit pompously in brightly colored court garb that looks a bit out of date, his stringy black hair slicked back with scented wax and he looks over the various people in the tavern. Once inside one of the three barmaids nods towards you, but seems busy enough so as not to direct you to a table, leaving you in peace until you call to them for your order. The tavern has a flight of stairs that run to a second floor, looking as if it likely has rooms to rent. DC 18 Perception Check(Conqueror's Blade)
Spoiler:
One of the barmaids keeps her hair drawn down over her cheek but you catch a glimpse beneath of a pretty nasty bruise on the side of her face.
The guard seems to consider seems to consider giving a bit more of a hassle, anything to spice up the boring job after all but then he looks down at the apple in hand. Its obvious the idea of fresh food is a bit too much to pass up so he simply turns back to the others and calls for them to open up the gates and a moment later the wagon is within. Gaskar looks around at the party, motioning straight down the keep road. "I need to drop off my goods at the Forest Bounty, though I should be safe within the gates if you all wish to take your leave. The Tucket's at the bounty are good people and should help me unload. I intend to drop stock and get out of here as quick as possible, would rather not be in town in morning." He gives a bit of an extra nod at that, making clear what he expects to come then.
As the wagon approaches you get a better look at the guards, three of them seem to be in standard dress, chain shirts with crossbows slung over their backs and spears in their hand. The last is obviously a superior with a finely fitted breastplate and a longsword at his hip in addition to the standard fare of the others. It is this one who approaches, raising a hand for you to stop. He looks up at Sam's address with a quirk of his brow, giving a slight smirk. "My my, aren't we formal?" He glances over towards the merchant, grinning as if pleased with himself. "How did some huckster like you pick up such a pretty boy, Gaskar? Sounds like he should be wiping a princes' bottom not sorting your messes!" Gaskar for his part laughs along with the man and dips a hand in the wagon, tossing the guard a fresh green apple. "Come now, I'm behind on getting to the bounty and need to get on to my next shipment. I bet you haven't eaten anything that wasn't browning in a week, keep up your jokes and you'll be explaining to your men why they are living on salted pork for a month when I run this cart back down the hill!"
The general moves in to answer the questions. "The trip will take about two days and I would have you leave as soon as possible, bright and early in the morning will get you there before dusk the following day if all goes well. And Gaskar won't be staying with you in town. His skill as a merchant doesn't necessarily extend to more martial matters. The idea is that you will be able to escort him into town and then he will depart before the siege is laid. Leaving behind guards when there is no more merchandise to protect won't draw much attention, it is likely expected you will be remaining behind to await the next caravan. Once the troops arrive, I would expect the town to be sealed and you will have a bit more time. The panic of being under siege may leave you openings to infiltrate further and should buy time as it is unlikely the chelish backup will come while we are stationed outside. However, we only can hold around the town for so long before we need launch our attack so you will need to move quickly."
Packing up and setting out just after dawn the first day of the trip is extremely easy going, riding through rolling hills and beautiful farmland. The second day gets harder as you enter the mountains, though being on horseback makes things easier on your legs at least. By the afternoon the trail is steep enough that the horses are obviously straining to bring the wagon up and when the town is sighted not long before nightfall its a relief. Gaskar for his part proves an amiable companion on the trip. A consummate salesman he has a knack for reading people well enough to put them at ease and spends much of the journey telling stories of his travels which in his youth were quite extensive. Stopping far enough away that the high stone walls of the town can be seen where it sits tucked in a natural cove of the mountain, surrounded on three sides by sheer cliffs rising up to the peaks above. While the trail has been lightly wooded the area immediately around the town is cleared to give the men(from the distance it appears there are at least several in each tower) plenty of time to leave any approaching force riddled with arrows. The single entrance into town is a solidly built gatehouse complete with portcullis, a group of 4 guards waits outside, greeting the small trickle of miners returning from their day's work. Just beyond the town the trail narrows sharply along one of the mountain's walls, a perfect place to barricade and hold the trail against large numbers, the fact that makes this village so important.
The general gives Willy a look with a bit of a raised brow though he doesn't truly disagree. "Assassins if that is what is required and in this situation it may well be. If you can find a way to bring the Baron out of power without his death and return the town to Andorani hands, you have my full support in exercising it and I would be pleased to see even that bloodshed missed. It seems unlikely that the Baron will give us that option however." Pausing a moment, the general drops a pouch onto the table with a clink of coin. "Partial payment in advance, you may use it for any gear you may be needing or in the event of bribes changing hands or the like. You'll recieve a more full payment if you can complete this mission and spare the town the attack and of course you will hold looting rights to the keep itself. Any ill gotten goods the Baron has acquired are free to your hands. Do remember that while the Baron most certain has those who are actively seeking to promote Cheliax among his people, most are simply people obeying their liege, including the guards. The less blood on your hands the better." Finally stepping aside so Gaskar can approach, the older man rolls out a map with a detailed sketch of the city on it and passes around a sheet of parchment with notes jotted upon it. "I trade regularly with the town, so while I have never been into the keep proper I do have a good idea of the prominent folk and the layout of the village which may help you come up with a better idea of where to start when you arrive. I only intend to stay long enough to drop my wares and then depart before the siege begins, it shouldn't draw much attention having a merchants guards stay behind when there is nothing left to protect."
Notes about the map
Spoiler:
1. - Watch Towers - Wooden towers which are always manned even in peacetime.
2. - The Dead Well - Inn built around a dried well and run by a gambler 'Lucky' Ben. 3. - Shenk's Dogyard - Tweiford Shenk trains dogs famously and keeps track of the Baron's fool of a nephew. 4. - Graden's - Simple supply shop, owners are very rough people. 5. - The First Light - Run down Temple of Aroden all but the old priest tend to leave it be. 6. - Terron's Yard - Terron Redgrove maintains a family stable business here. 7. - Forest Bounty - Grocer in town. Family of halflings is very friendly and those I deal with most. 8. - The Bucket & Bellows - Blacksmith Smaar Janderfut and his sons are always busy trying to keep up with the mines. 9. - The Lodge - Cantina for hunters and rangers who look after the hills. Never been welcomed in to see the inside. 10 - The Black Candle - Herbal Remedies and Alchemy. Viaren is skilled with plants and potions. 11 - The Conqueror's Blade - Tavern which serves the off duty guard. Often filled with soldiers and occasionally even their captain to boost morale. 12 - Pact Hall - Temple of Asmodeus built a few years ago when the Baron converted. Townsfolk complained but with no real change its become part of life. 13 - Almir Estate - Chelish house that never left town, House Almir runs all the mining ventures around the town. Very influential. 14 - Argith's Alchemy Shoppe - Argith is a young but talented Alchemist who has obsessions with experimenting with various compounds.
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