Adriel allows the Bard to do her talking, he absentmindedly pets Thrasher and peruses the scroll catalogue, looking for some particular ones.
The place was moderately well stocked, moreso than the confines would normally allow but this was not an uncommon thing in tje few magic shops that did exist in the world.I am after a Wizard or Witch Scroll of Blindness, of Mirror Image and another of True Strike and a wand of Infernal Healing. A pearl of power if you have any.
Thrasher screeches and Varrel speaks to his familiar to soothe it.
"Yes the True Strike scroll will cost you 35 gold. The mirror image is 188 gold." He shuffles through a few pages shaking his head, "I don't have the blindness on hand but I can have create it for you today for a 25% mark up from the normal price of 188."
He gets up and moves to a small drawer, "I have minor pearl of power for 1100 but I can create more powerful ones if you like."
70% chance
Astrianna casts a sidelong glance at Darius. Does the entire city know what Darius did? I may have to smooth over some raised haunches if we try to do business with the seedier parts of town- from what I gather Falken was a bit of a hero to the pirates.
The bard flips open her journal and begins a rough sketch of the map the wizard has produced, circling the locations he provided and naming them. "Excellent, thank you. I'll pass your message along to Lefty." Waiting for the ink to dry out, the bard shuts her journal and pays for her purchases.
These are overpriced, but I'd rather a wizard be scribing spells such as these. I'll head to Fiddlesticks tomorrow and make my other purchases, smooze up to the owner and get their best fiddle.
She looks over at Darius. "The Captain's Wheel sounds like our kind of place, especially if we're going to be in the Bawd anyway. I don't want to walk into the Kraken's Gullet until I know more about Shaw's upper crust, and I have a proper dress. One faux pas and... well, it will only be pleasant for whomever is making our lives hell."
"The Captain's Wheel it is then!"
__________
When you get to the haberdashery and fashion shop you see exquisite clothing all finely made.
A pleasant female greets you, "Hello." He eyes run over each of you as she places a finger to her lips. "Yes, yes you do need something more fashionable."
"Alfred we need your assistance they are quite dirty and need your magic."
Use the prices in the CRB and other supplements.
As I said in the discussion, going to buy the following:
-Gold Brooch, clasping a Silk Reversible Cloak (black on the outside, red on the other).
-Nobles Outfit, in local style but preferably also black and red in color.
Astrianna raises an eyebrow at the mention of being dirty. She takes the liberty of casting Prestidigitation and begins cleaning herself off, especially the mud on her boots from the Outskirts. I'm glad they have high standards at least, I didn't believe I was that bad...
The elf raises an eyebrow at the prices listed.
The wizard was making a pretty penny if these were the regular prices, but since he knew of no other magic shop in town, the man could charge what he liked
1,558? You have me at a disadvantage, Sir. Scribe the scroll and I will take the lot, too long at sea and I would wet my appetite for fresh knowledge. I will return as soon as you think it will be ready. Now, ladies, if we are concluded our purchases, please let's find some attire and get to the drinking and dancing and whatever else follows before I send myself broke in this shop. I would also love to see an armorer to get a leather lamellar barding for Thrasher, or better yet Darkleaf like YOURS Sath.
Not knowing much about fashion, she will take the shopkeepers advice on what to wear and check subtley with Astri to make sure of the advice.
A Dontorian special hat provides the following benefits:
250 gp = +2 on a single skill (pick which at creation): bluff, diplo, or intimidate when worn.
500 gp = +2 on two skills (pick two at creation): bluff, diplo, or intimidate.
750 gp = +2 on all three skills: bluff, diplo, intimidate.
These are circumstance bonuses.
Each hat is perfectly tailored to the customer's brow to provide either a piratical or noble flair.
Adriel boldly steps into the Habadashery.
Ho, it seems so long since I wore a decent outfit. I do love my armor however. Tell me, Madam would I be acceptable with my current armor but dressed up with sufficient accessories? A fine hat, sash and a jewelled scabbard for my sword for example?
David glances at all the gear; the massive expense for clothes doesn’t bother him. The necessity to be judged by clothes – the elitism; the class systems that such frippery recalls to his mind is another matter.
However, it seems that it is a matter of form, and he will not protest.
As he looks at the gear, he notices the uniforms and garb that some of the folk possess.
Noticing what Darius has planned on purchasing, he considers it, nodding his head in appreciation at the style and colors that Darius suggested.
When he has a moment, he turns to him and speaks –
”Your gear seems like it’ll be fine… damn fine,” he says sincerely to his companion.
”But did you ever consider buying something more local – you know; to fit in with the folk around here? Some kind of local heraldry, for example?” he adds.
”It could help you with regards to types of armor, maybe; but hey – it’s just a suggestion…”
He thinks a moment.
”You know – if we’re serious about putting together a business together, maybe we want to have our own colors… The kind that’ll intimidate the rubes or help us move up in diplomatic circles, too,” he adds, then looks around.
”What do all think of that idea? You know – if we do make business for ourselves getting out own colors and heraldry?” he asks the group.
Astrianna walks into the clothing store and is quite pleased by their selection. She browses their selection to determine the latest styles from Avistan, pointing them out to Embrianna.
When she has a moment the bard engages in conversation with Alfred, or whomever the head tailor is, to place her orders. "There are two dresses I would like to have made- a stylish entertainer's dress that would be acceptable in both mid to upscale taverns and a much more noble dress for parties and general upscale events."
Astrianna touches her hat and summons an illusion of the exact dress she wishes to have made for her entertainer/courtier's outfit.
When the tailor has the idea for her performer's dress, she touches her hat again and changes the illusion to outline the much more restrictive evening dress she had been envisioning.
While shopping, Astrianna points out a dress to Embrianna. "Oh my, Embri, look at this. I feel this dress was sent by Shelyn herself for you to wear!"
As the tailor takes his measurements, Darius replies to Dirk, "That's a possibility and a good idea, Hawk, but let's worry about business after we enjoy ourselves for a night," a smile plastered across his face. This is perhaps the most relaxed you have all seen Darius since you met him.
"Though, I am partial to darker colors, though I will not force te ladies into anything they are not happy with."
As the tailor takes his measurements, Darius replies to Dirk, "That's a possibility and a good idea, Hawk, but let's worry about business after we enjoy ourselves for a night," a smile plastered across his face. This is perhaps the most relaxed you have all seen Darius since you met him.
David nods at Darius, his head cocking somewhat as he studies him.
"You alright?" he asks him, concerned a little for his friend, who seems a bit stand-offish, but doesn't try to push things.
"Though, I am partial to darker colors, though I will not force the ladies into anything they are not happy with."
"Well, I don't really mind either way - the goal is to where something that's noticed and recognized, I guess," he adds with a shrug.
He glances toward the ladies as they shop.
"Listen - it looks like they're going to take a little while with getting their dresses and all that."
"I'm going to ask around a little about a thing..." he says.
"If you'd like to come with, I wouldn't say no to some company."
"But do what you got to do," he says, clapping him on his shoulder.
"Perfectly fine, Hawk! Just ready to get to some celebrations, a good meal, and good company," he says happily, his eyes wandering to the ladies in their group at the end of his statement.
"It would be best if we at least moved about in pairs, and I would like to find a place to sell this short blade, since I have this eye catcher now," he says as he pats the long sword on his hip. "I will join you as soon as the tailor has my numbers."
As soon as the tailor is concluded with him and he had his evening's attire, he checks it in a mirror before asking, "So, ladies. Am I acceptably dressed to be in your company this evening?"
__________
Astrianna glances over at Darius, nodding her head. "Yes, quite dashing there Darius! My word- that hat is incredible! You could go in the nude and no one would even notice- all they would see is that magnificent hat!"
The bard clears her throat, however, and walks up to him. "Hold still. If you insist on wearing your backpack with your nice clothes I'm going to have to clean it so you don't get them dirty and so you don't look like you stole it... What is all of this green-yellow tar?" She sighs and uses her prestidigitation from earlier to clear off his haversack.
Darius' mood darkens, but only slightly, as he replies, "Spider ichor."
He bows with a flourish of his cape and kisses her hand and says, "Thank you, my darling, for saving me from a terrible 'faux pas' on our first night out," partly teasing her by using the same phrase she used earlier.
He pauses after rising, a smirk on his face, and adds, "Trust me, you would notice more than the hat. You would likely cast aside your song about Thalios at the sight," with a wink at the end.
Astrianna glances over at Darius, nodding her head. "Yes, quite dashing there Darius! My word- that hat is incredible! You could go in the nude and no one would even notice- all they would see is that magnificent hat!"
David glances at Astrianna thoughtfully, his eyes flick over to Embrianna, too.
He turns back to Darius.
"I envy you," he says to him after a moment.
"I guess I'll see you outside," he says, then pauses.
"Sath - you want to hang out here, or do you want to do some questioning?" he asks the young woman.
He waits a moment for her answer, then swings his kit over his shoulder and heads outside to start the questioning.
Astrianna does not seem fazed by the mention of spider ichor. "Ah, yes, in our profession we often get covered in strange substances... You know I once had toe beat a rust monster to death with a violin case, and the goop that they bleed simply does not come out of clothes. It's rather frightening."
She finishes cleaning the haversack off and gives him a nod. "You're welcome. I don't want you thrown in jail for offending some rich woman's sensibilities. You and Hawkins have fun. We're probably going to head to the bath house after we finish here, meet us there. Adriel would be terribly disappointed if he had to bathe alone. If we're not there, we've went to the Broken Skull, probably."
"Indeed. I wouldn't miss that for the world, it's been far too long since I've enjoyed a proper bath!"
He turns to Dirk and says, "Alright, let's go see what we can see!"
He turns to Dirk and says, "Alright, let's go see what we can see!"
When David sees Darius get out of the place he glances at him.
"So I'm thinking that guy that tried to get away this morning? I'm thinking that he's likely not as guilty as the copper's made it out," he says to him.
"It doesn't seem right to me, is all."
"I mean - why would the legal authorities say that a captain who put his crew down for 'mutiny' is wrong? Normally authorities back the captain of a ship, not the dead men who may or may not have been mutineers but aren't here to testify..."
"I just figured - given as popular as the man was - if he's formally guilty than the law can seize his assets, that might be handy for the law. You know, if the captain's successful and has lots of assets to seize, that is," he says with a shrug.
"But like I said - it's just hunches; and generally my hunches are way off."
"But I guess we'll see what happens next," he adds as he heads out.
"Aye, but my little 'show' was just that, a show. If I have to choose who to have on my side in a pinch, the folks in charge are the ones I'd choose every time. So, if they wanted that man arrested, I at least want them to think I tried to help," He leans close and whispers, "Honestly, I'm glad he slipped away. But if he has a problem with me over it, I'll have to just deal with that should the time come," Darius says casually, as if he hadn't given it anymore thought since it happened.
As they speak with locals, Darius allows Hawk to do his inquiries, but eventually turns the conversations they spark towards a more inquisitive bent regarding life here in the Razor.
__________
"Aye, but my little 'show' was just that, a show. If I have to choose who to have on my side in a pinch, the folks in charge are the ones I'd choose every time. So, if they wanted that man arrested, I at least want them to think I tried to help," He leans close and whispers, "Honestly, I'm glad he slipped away."
David's eyes are on the people on the streets, but it's clear he is listening.
"But if he has a problem with me over it, I'll have to just deal with that should the time come,"
He turns to Darius and looks at him, clapping him on the shoulder, pulling him close so that others are not overhearing their words.
"Not alone," he says to him sincerely "you are my friend - I stick by my friends. If you run into trouble, I'll back you."
"Good to know," Darius replies with a smile. "So, let's get our ears to the ground and find out how we can milk this port for all it's worth, eh?"
"Good to know," Darius replies with a smile. "So, let's get our ears to the ground and find out how we can milk this port for all it's worth, eh?"
David smiles.
"Aye - sounds good," he says.
Adriel will happily remain with the women and discuss options for dressing up his armor as much as possible, with posh scabbards for his scimitar, and some Silken Ceremonial armor that could be worn over his lammellar.
Used for ceremonial displays or occasionally worn (albeit with no additional benefit) over heavier armor, these robes consist of several layers of cloth and an outer layer of silk intricately woven with gold brocade designs and covered with metal studs.
The elf sits down to examine patterns and colors with the Habadasher.
I need it to be worn over my lammellar or perhaps even a breastplate. It will provide no additional protection of course, but look beautiful and not impede my movements. I have gotten into more than one fight at parties. Silk, with alternating shades of Green and brown. It will stand out against an urban setting but blend magnificently in natural surroundings. I am proud of my elven heritage and so it should look elven, lithe and fast.
It takes some time to get it right. When the elf FINALLY emerges his hair is pulled back from his ears and brushed.
He looks like this
and this
Looks like this
”It could help you with regards to types of armor, maybe; but hey – it’s just a suggestion…”
He thinks a moment.
...
"yes...yes we can fit you ceremonial robes and parade armor is worn by the wealthy. Especially in the Jade district."
"My I touch the kitty?" She reaches to stroke the cat. "It should be no problems getting him fixed up proper attire."
Several merchants come out and you're magically cleaned before permitted to touch anything. The tailors begin to measure, pin, and take notes. 'Nice...nice. Take in here, let out there." a few hmphrphs later and a "a bit thicker in the waist." and they have you all set to go for fine quality outfits. "they should be ready tomorrow late day." The colors, trends, and fashion style is all in line with what is being worn now. Red and black is fine along with most other colors.
They are able to get Adriel with appropriate dress robes, sash, and bedazzled jeweled belt. Of course several of the female merchants are flirtatious and suggestive when they do the fitting. making sure they are properly tipped. One whispers, "I'll be at the Pig’s Whistle later this evening."
After the formal wear is done they fit you all with causal clothes and the Dontorian special hats. They take care of Dirk and Darius first since he wanted to go wandering.
When all is said and done it takes 3 hours to fit everyone with clothes and the women being satisfied (temporarily) with their purchases.
Astrianna advises the magus on his parade armor. "Adriel, I know you can get the bare minimum parade armor but I implore you to spend more. We can get you some jewelry or perhaps some gem-studded epualets- they're all the rage now. The upper crust have a keen sense about how much money one puts into appearances, they won't hesitate to point out and berate your minimalism if they even let you into their group."
I forgot there were some squeals and jumping when they tailors began fitting Bri with her outfits. Nobody wants to work with the snake around her neck.
Bri would have asked one of the others still in the shop to hold Emmy when it is her turn to be fitted.
As Darius and Dirk roam the streets listening and chatting to people they pick up the following information, it's talk, whispers, rumors so it may be real, false, or tidbits of truth.
"Falken Drango made a dashing escape today."
"The Dragoons planned his escape, chains just popped off."
"Some pole wielding fool broke Falken out."
"There is new sergeant who almost stopped the escape today....wonder where they brought him in from. Already has 150 gold on his head."
"There's a big Dragonsmoke drop tomorrow night. Idiot t'git caught wit that stuff. Lot's of jail time."
Falken's crew were loyal, he paid well, no reason for him to go on the rampage they claim...he's being framed.
"Falken's a greedy bastard he loves his loot, women, and he has killed before.
'Damn roaches have been swarming at night, they eat everything we need those sewers cleaned out.
"Sam's enchanting a new cutlass for me expensive but he is the best."
"Dugan's fighting tonight he kicked that brawler's off the Flyfish arse the other night. I hear Varion's fightin the winn'r."
That is all you pick up form the street.
Adriel shakes his head at the suggestion of useless jewellery.
I don't mind finery at all, Dear Songbird but I would not wear accroments I have not earned. The armor is beautiful and functional. And of course, I will buy a hat. A Fedora would look splendid on me, I think. One of the 750gp ones. Should be expensive enough for their tastes.
He didn't say as much, but that damn mage shop had been significantly more expensive than he'd liked and hanging out with this lot meant he did not know where his next job was coming from.
He bows.
I will be dressed just well enough to be your and Embrianna's bodyguard and consort for the night. I am a sellsword and will take no offense of being seen as your guard. Trust me, there are plenty of women who are more than found of consorting with paid warriors. They like a dangerous man for a dalliance with no strings attached. Makes them feel privileged you see. You two both look more than stunning enough to steel the show. The less attention I draw, the better.
Since Sath has not been on I will reveal what she saw at the wizard's shop.
She caught a glimpse of the shop keeper, Samuel, drafting a treasure map to Garr Bloodbane's hoard. He quickly pushed it under some papers on his desk.
Darius leads Hawkins back towards where the bath house was supposedly located to meet up with the rest of the group and to enjoy a bath of his own.