Melthune emerges, again fully decked out in her armor, her helmet carried handily at her waist in a canvas bag.
She looks out at the city.
"Its......yellow...." She states, noting the average range of colour that the sun bleached walls have become.
She turns to the others, listening.
"Aye." She states in copied 'Pirate' lingo, "Let us see to this small thing first." She agrees with Zanyan's course of action. "Business before pleasure." Though she offers Kristin a wink and wry smile,
"Who knows? Maybe the clergy here will give us a small reward or bounty for allowing them the pleasure of rendering this thing into a lump? More reward to spend is always good." Then Melthune looks thoughtfully out into the foreign city,
"Though, I do remember the last time we walked the streets together..." And her gloved hands flex.
Stefan steps from the ship, taking in the diffrent style of the port.
"Well, I think we should find a place to stay before we all split up on individual errands. After we are settled, I think I'll peruse the market. No better place to get information than that."
Hack strtches his long fortm, takes a nip from his Hipflask, then approaches Zayna and the pilot.
I am with the two of ya to get this Idol thing taken care of. Plus, maybe the priestess can bless my axe or my member, whichever she sees fit.
He throws his head back and laughs heartily. It is a disturbing and almost maniacal sound.
After changing out of her cold weather gear and into something lighter , her armour donned, weapons set in place and her animals by her side, Taissa stood on deck and scanned her eyes across the port of Osirion.
Even looking out, Taissa had heard Hack's jest and raucous laughter. It was the first time she had heard him laugh so.
Addressing them all,
"I don't think it's a good idea we split up again, especially being new to Osirion. Last time we did that, I and some of the others were attacked by bounty hunters in Korvosa. Let us see to this idol's destruction first and then we can find lodging and undertake other activities."
Then addressing John Dodger, "How many days will we be in port, Captain?"
"How many days will we be in port, Captain?"
John looks down from the quarterdeck at the others.
"We're going to be here only as long as it takes to get that idol destroyed."
"Hopefully that's no more than a day. Then we're back to the ship and we're out of here."
He glances to his own crew.
"I want Khal, Uraga, Ren and Ella on deck - ya'll are staying here just while we trek into the city proper to keep an eye on things; just in case," he says.
"Once we get this thing done we're going to head back to the ship and we're tacking west toward her father's estates a piece."
"Once we get that done we'll be away from too many unknown variables... from what we all know of her father's lands, the cove is pretty safe from outside ships, and a little secluded - unless you come from the sea proper or are willing to stab overland south a piece first to skirt those cliffs... so it's likely that we'll have some decent privacy once we get there from any folk who may try to cause trouble."
"Her dad's got food a'plenty, so we should have the chance to stock up on goods for the way home, easy."
"As for getting gear - you know the rest already," he says a bit grimly, studying the fields that pocket the wetlands of the northern part of the city.
His eyes flick to the phalanx of soldiers marching in the far south of the city and he notices that they have different banners than another company moving through the temple district and frowns a bit, recalling all the information he learned from the priestess on the way over.
"I want everyone bloody armed - this should be an easy in-and-out, but it ain't no pleasure cruise. This place ain't got no hard-core City Watch, there's lots of different lads out there with their own form of protection, see? But from what? Bandits, or simple pick-pockets? Who knows, but the thing is; I'd rather not find out the hard way, so keep your gear close and watch your step."
"Well, I think we should find a place to stay before we all split up on individual errands. After we are settled, I think I'll peruse the market. No better place to get information than that."
John glances at Stefan at this comment.
He seems prepared to say something directly to the man; giving orders and commands on what exactly is going to happen, but then he stops himself.
"You got to do what you got to do," he says with a shrug.
"But once this is done we're shoving off."
"I'd recommend being on the ship when we do," he adds and he looks up at the sun with a frown.
He turns to Polux at this time.
"This is your crew, not mine, so I ain't going to order them around."
"But I'm telling you this now: I'd get your people in line. This is a new port to me, and when I step into unknown waters I just assume be prepared for anything," he says grimly.
"Though, I do remember the last time we walked the streets together..."
Kristin looks at Melthune.
"Right... well then, I'd say we keep our powder dry and our swords sharp," she says with a nod.
Ren moves close to Taissa and listens to her observations on the land, he listens to what she says on what she sees and offers his thoughts on what she sees.
"Noble Houses will often vie with each other for matters of prestige. This place has dozens of Houses; each of them achieving their power through blood or through their connections with the gods or wealth..."
"That means that there will be many factions seeking to outdo each other with who is the greatest... spies between Houses; men lurking in the shadows to see what their competition is doing - the pretended alliance; the iron fist in a velvet glove... everyone wishes power here; they may go to dangerous lengths... be careful who you trust and stay close to those you know," he says to her.
"Other status symbols might include rare and exotic slaves; highly trained gladiators as personal bodyguards; and keeping unusual and exotic pets..." he says with a flat voice.
"Further, this is a slave nation - killing "low born" folk in the street may not trouble the members of "High Society" here, if you understand me? We are foreigners, and we are not royal or noble or of their Great Houses - stay close to the priestess, then. Hopefully her father's reputation and status will act as a shield for you," he adds.
He looks at White Fang who is rushing around the deck with his ball in his mouth.
"I would not bring the pup with you; nor would I reveal anything that could draw unusual attention," he adds.
Looking to the fields, he looks back at Taissa, his words switching to elven -
"Thou art female; and thy features are unique here... there are many who may seek a "unique" looking slave for their amusement."
"Elves are not common here - at least, not free elves... The priestess has stated that the elves in this city, if there are any, are slaves..."
"I know that thou art capable of defending thyself; but look at thy pilot - notice that she covers her features so as not to attract unwanted attention?"
"I would see thee equally cautious - if folk try to assail thee and thy companions... Thou are not of a Great House - the authorities may not elect to aid thee overmuch as I suspect that they place more stock on Title rather than a respect for life and freedom..." he adds.
"I know that thy can defend thyself well; but I would rather not see thee have to fight at all."
Ren turns and looks at everyone, speaking loud enough for them to hear him.
"Be careful, all of you."
"And do not wander far from the priestess. You are not native to this land; without the reputation of a Noble House to shelter you, you are all merely commoners; and they do not share Beacon's respect for life here," he adds as he watches the fields.
Noting the seriousness in Ren's voice and believing he is concerned for her and her animals' welfare, Taissa turns to Daya and White Fang. She instructs them to stay on the ship, preferably below deck (and out of sight and especially not to talk in Common top deck for any to hear) and explains why -- that she does not want them captured and sold as pets to Osirion noble houses. She especially instructs White Fang to do as he is told and listen to Daya and await, on the ship, out of sight, for her return.
She takes the scarf from her pack and wraps it about her copper-red hair and face; hiding her obvious half-elf ears, with only her sapphire eyes on show.
Short rant on Dueling Dagger for Dain:Dain, maybe you want to hold off on offering that dagger to Polux, for two main reasons:
- He is terribly focused on Kukris in particular;
- Being an Exotic Weapon, means that even being Masterwork, his attack with it will be at +1 when dual wielding it with another dagger (ok, this can be brought up to +3 if he is flanking but...) - basically I am trading +4 to hit for +2 to AC, which is not a good deal for Polux when compared to stuff like Combat Expertise or Crane Style. So he will most likely never use it :(
- If it was some sort of Kukri, perhaps my Weapon Focus could kick in, and I could ponder getting Exotic Weapon Proficiency at level 5 (was planning on Dodge for an additional AC point, then Mobility, etc... But I am actually quite tight on feats atm)Just wanted to let you know.
Snaga hefts his gear over his shoulder. His face is covered with long strips of cloth that wrap around his entire face, even shrouding his eyes like a veil. It seems the sunlight here is too bright for his eyes.
He is armed as usual, and he lopes over to Polux.
”Where to next, chief?” he asks with a dry rasp to his voice.
Polux looks at Snaga and his attire as he changes into the hot weather gear he had purchased in Beacon - "I'll be honest with you Snaga - I'm not sure how you will be seen here around these lands, being you a goblin" - he states bluntly.
Pondering for a moment he adds - "I guess if you don't mind playing the silent game, we can always tell anyone who asks that you are a slave bodyguard..? Not the most pleasant of guises, but one that will probably work" - he shrugs - "Up to you, I will understand if you don't feel up to it"
Refitting his gear around him, he follows up - "Anyways, from here we should be escorting Amen-Ta to the temple, so they can go over the idol and whatnot. At least that is the deal"
"Look, the way I see things is that these guys will be here all day trying to decide what to do - and there's a good bet that after you ask them they'll end up looking around at everyone else and ask everyone what they want to do, and while the sun is climbing in the sky we'll waste the day in some kind of committee because no one says something like - This is what we're doing, now let's do it!," she adds with a little frustrated shake of her head.
"Looks to me the ship is not even docked yet, and you are already throwing around too much fuss" - Polux nods at Kristin - "We have been taken on board for a reason - the next steps are sort of decided upon, but perhaps if you can hold yourself for a split second, we'll get to that - if not, you are of course free to jump on land and go about whatever business you want to" - the man states flatly - "We are under commission to do a specific task, so that is what we will do"
"But enough of such dross - we go then, therefore, to the great temple of the Sun - there we shall discover them that can snuff from the idol the dark flame which possesses it so, and perhaps we shall recognized for our achievements."
"There you have it" - he shrugs at Kristin.
"Anyone feel like coming with us; or are ya'll planning on staying here on the ship, or - I don't know... I'm just curious if you got any plans," she asks.
"Of course we are going - that is what we are here for" - he now looks at the woman seriously - "Mind giving people time to respond?"
"Though, I do remember the last time we walked the streets together..." And her gloved hands flex.
Turning to Melthune, Polux says - "That reminds me..." - going to a corner in the deck, he picks up a musket, some gunpowder and ammunition, and hands them over to the woman.
"I was thinking about your participation in our last fight" - he stares at her - "Actually, your lack of participation" - he raises an eyebrow - "I don't want to get into an argument about how smart it may be to wear a full armour at sea, or some other stuff. But I want to give you a piece of my own opinion - I was jumping around, but kept an eye on you, and you gotta show more than you did" - he states - "I was kinda pissed at the start that you got your thousand gold without moving a muscle, but hey, everyone deserves a second chance, so I am going out on a limb and assume you didn't do better because you didn't try, but because you were ill-equipped to deal with the fight - so for starters, here is a ranged weapon, since you have none" - he hands her the musket - "This is me giving you a second chance" - he nods - "Grab it if you want, else we'll leave it as it is"
Polux nods in agreement with both Hack and Taissa - "Let's get this done to start with - we can take it from there, as Taissa and Hack have just put"
He turns to Polux at this time.
"This is your crew, not mine, so I ain't going to order them around."
"But I'm telling you this now: I'd get your people in line. This is a new port to me, and when I step into unknown waters I just assume be prepared for anything," he says grimly.
Shaking his head, Polux just smiles - "They are not my crew - they were my crew on board of The Scorpion as far as decisions were needed - out here, I am part of a team. We already went through this" - he looks back at his companions - "Besides, the crew is well aware of what we are here to do, and the first step is escorting Amen-Ta to the temple" - he hops on to the side of the ship - "Shall we get going?"
"Be careful, all of you."
"And do not wander far from the priestess. You are not native to this land; without the reputation of a Noble House to shelter you, you are all merely commoners; and they do not share Beacon's respect for life here," he adds as he watches the fields.
"Got it Ren" - Polux puts in, checking his kukris - "Move out"
Let's go, already.
Turning to Melthune, Polux says - "That reminds- going to a corner in the deck, he picks up a musket, some gunpowder and ammunition, and hands them over to the woman.
"I was thinking about your participation in our last fight" - he stares at her - "Actually, your lack of participation" - he raises an eyebrow - "I don't want to get into an argument about how smart it may be to wear a full armour at sea, or some other stuff. But I want to give you a piece of my own opinion - I was jumping around, but kept an eye on you, and you gotta show more than you did" - he states - "I was kinda pissed at the start that you got your thousand gold without moving a muscle, but hey, everyone deserves a second chance, so I am going out on a limb and assume you didn't do better because you didn't try, but because you were ill-equipped to deal with the fight - so for starters, here is a ranged weapon, since you have none" - he hands her the musket - "This is me giving you a second chance" - he nods - "Grab it if you want, else we'll leave it as it is"
As Polux walks over and offer the weapon to her Melthune takes it, holding it simply before herself as the man begins to talk. She listens stoically -making no comment nor does she flinch, back down or other wise physically react- to Polux's words. When he finishes she is silent for a moment...then, with a slight nod she replies,
"Your..opinions," And she offers a slight arching on an eyebrow of her own in return, "Are noted. Though they are presented bluntly, like yourself, and are just as self centered." She finishes.
"But, it is as you say. We have things to do, places to be and people to see. If you want to have a get together and nail out this little issue later, that'd fine, but as you've said we've things to do about town." She finishes with a nods and with that Melthune moves to begin asking Zayna for ideas/help in slinging/shouldering/holstering said musket that she's been given.
1. The dueling dagger –
Okay; sorry about that. I thought it was something handy, but if it’s not to your taste, I’m sorry. I’m supposing that you’re going to tap up things like Weapon Focus: Kukri and so on, but in either case, that’s your weapon of choice.
That said, I’ll have to come up with something else that is unique for you later. But I’ll keep your interest in kukris for later. Of course, if you have something else that you’re interested in, too, let me know.
2. Snaga –
He was already included in the group for his cut. To be fair, since the Halflings weren’t paying much attention to what everyone was doing, they split the loot equally with every demi-human. Of course, Snaga wouldn’t turn down any extra loot ;)
Currently he’s already wearing a full veil over his face and a turban over it; not even his eyes are visible as it covers his face completely (to protect his eyes a bit from the sun, but also from being identified as a goblin). But yeah, he’s already prepared to travel in disguise. However, that’s out of loyalty to you. On the other hand, he’ll stay on the ship if you think it’s a better move.
Let me know what you’d like him to do.
3. Regarding Kristin –
Kristin’s main concern that night wasn’t leaving instantly, her concern was that when it came time to make a decision that the group wouldn’t make a hard decision and stick to it and move forward but instead spend days in OOC making a decision. She was just looking for someone to say – ”Let’s do this!”, that’s all.
4. Knowledge: Local check –
I went back over your posts but I didn’t see a Knowledge: Local check. While you’d have a penalty to it because it’s on the other side of the world and you’ve never been to Osirion I would certainly have allowed a roll for it, but I think I may have missed the post. If I did, I apologize and can give you some other information, I just hadn’t noticed it.
5. Regarding the muskets –
No, unfortunately the cost of the musket has to be paid for. The Halflings took all of the gear, including the weapons, armor, supplies, and so on. They took everything and pooled it and then elected to give you gold for it, knowing that they could sell it and get the money for it later.
In other words, whoever takes a musket does not get 1,000 GP from their “Cut”. They get 250 GP and the musket as in this version muskets are worth ½ the book price, and the book price has them at 1,500.
"I guess if you don't mind playing the silent game, we can always tell anyone who asks that you are a slave bodyguard..? Not the most pleasant of guises, but one that will probably work" - he shrugs - "Up to you, I will understand if you don't feel up to it"
Snaga looks at Polux and shrugs.
”You are chief – I can help you if you want, or I can stay here if you want.”
”You decide that; I will do what you think is best. You are my chief; you command, I’ll obey,” he answers simply.
"They are not my crew - they were my crew on board of The Scorpion as far as decisions were needed - out here, I am part of a team."
John looks at Polux, studying him.
”Right – so you’re not the captain and they're not your crew; you’re just a bunch of mates who are all part of a team?” he adds.
”Alright, no worries.”
He seems to think a bit how Polux has acted, and after a moment he smils a little.
"You know, you keep up that attitude then you and me are going to get along just fine," he says with a small chuckle at Polux's courage.
Johnny lights up a smoke and then watches Polux turn to talk to Melthune about her actions in the combat.
Taking a long pull from the smoke he glances to Melthune and listens to her response.
"Your..opinions," And she offers a slight arching on an eyebrow of her own in return, "Are noted. Though they are presented bluntly, like yourself, and are just as self centered."
John eyes narrow and he flings his cigarette over the side of the ship and his hand dips to the hilt of his whip and he moves over to Melthune.
”The only problem with his opinions was that he was too gods damn polite,” he says with a voice as dry as tinder.
”You were hired with good coin to do a service and you didn’t come across.”
”As of right now he can wax philosophical on whether he wants to call himself "captain" or not, but that don't make a gods damn difference."
"He hired you to do a job, so he’s your bloody boss. When he says jump you say "Yes sir!", got me? Because the way I see it, you work for him, that's the deal you made."
He widens his feet into a loose fighting stance and looks at Melthune intently.
"I'll tell you something else; he can deal with your lip how he wants later, but I'm telling you this now, no matter what he decides to do; on my ship folks stick by their deals, or they can swim home, savvy,” he says with a flat voice.
He turns and looks at Polux and gives him a raised thumb.
”Go team,” he says to Polux with a friendly nod.
She especially instructs White Fang to do as he is told and listen to Daya and await, on the ship, out of sight, for her return.
"Oh man...." he says, his little tail drooping forlornly.
"The ship is so boring, I want to go run around all over the beach and dig for bones, not stay here... stupid ship" he says as he lowers his head to his paws and pouts.
"Okay, I guess... You are the Alpha," he says continuing to pout a little more.
When you leave he does whine for you until you are out of sight, then he rushes below and snuggles in your Cold Weather Clothes and chews on his ball.
Let's go, already.
The company moves forward to landfall. You see that there is a stone wharf that seems to be much higher than the bulk of the lands near it. The walkway from the pier extends deep into the city itself and as you advance into the town you move together with Johnny and Amen-ta on point.
You see dozens of people around you. Most of them move out of your way as you advance down the street, mainly because you all seemed to be armed.
Beyond that though there is a sense of something unusual in the movement in general. A certain way of carrying yourself that half the community seems to have and the other half does not.
The variation is divided between free man and slave. The slaves tend to have lowered eyes, bowing involuntarily and moving aside for others in front of them. The free man walk and move forward much like you do.
In short, your very presence conveys a sense of command – you move as if you were important and act as if you were important, and so people tend to step aside.
Eventually you push forward through the crowded streets until you reach a massive temple with golden glyphs stamped into sandstone. The glyphs are not legible to you, but Amen-ta seems to know them and she indicates that you follow her.
As you advance you smell the scent of strong incense and you hear the sound of rhythmic chanting. It grows in volume as you enter the main foyer of the temple.
There are various guards carrying bronze tower shields and large polearms that have bronze, crescent-shaped spearheads that look like glaives.
Quickly eight of them advance toward you with the weapons resting on the bridge of the shields, but after a quick word from Amen-ta, they look around at each other and recede back from you.
You eventually enter a large room with various golden statues that flank it. Priests chant their almost hypnotic mantra and she indicates that you wait for a moment until they recognize you.
When you are given the chance to speak, she addresses the priests in a calm and respectful voice which somehow maintains a level of command as well.
She tells them who she is; where you have hailed from and she says she has returned to bring forth a dark relic to be destroyed.
Despite her confidence, she does not seem to be getting the reception she expected for some reason.
You are not sure why this is, but it seems almost as if the priests do not seem very impressed with her or the information that she is given.
She seems a bit surprised by this, but moves on; enlarging on the artifact as well as the work that you have all done defeating the dark cultists. She nods to Vale and he lifts the chest that holds the relic and offers the notes that were decoded from the journal.
Still the conclave of priests seem less than impressed for some reason.
She glances at you, somewhat confused at the reception, hoping for help.
Not certain her contribution would sway the Sky Priests, Taissa attempts to do her best and adds to Amun-ta's explanation.
"We seek your aid, revered priests, in quashing this darkness which means to spread and infect the good lands, creatures and people. You have power with which to destroy this dark, ancient Thassilonian relic. Help us."
[dice=Diplomacy to aid Amun-ta]1d20+5
Amun-ta glances at you somewhat thankfully, her eyes flicking to the others.
"Your..opinions," And she offers a slight arching on an eyebrow of her own in return, "Are noted. Though they are presented bluntly, like yourself, and are just as self centered." She finishes.
"But, it is as you say. We have things to do, places to be and people to see. If you want to have a get together and nail out this little issue later, that'd fine, but as you've said we've things to do about...
Polux is somewhat taken aback by the cold reception Amen-Ta is receiving, but stays silent for most of the exchange. When it seems that they are making no progress, he decides to step forward - "We are but outsiders in your country, and defer to your judgment, but we have travelled this far not only for advice regarding what threat may loom over our own lands, but also because this may be a common problem"
Looking at the chest containing the idol, and back at the assembled priests, he adds - "Mayhaps the same threat that looms over the regions where we hail from has reared its ugly head here in Osirion also? And if so, perhaps we could assist each other - if you deem us worthy of it, we would welcome any information and cooperation in addressing this matter, and destroying this artifact. In exchange, we would extend our cooperation to you, if needed, and perhaps uncover here in your own backyard some hidden tentacles of what seems to be an organization spanning the very sea itself"
Polux's voice is unusually calm, and shows a diplomatic side of the man he does not frequently tap into.
Hack simply watches the interplay between his companions and the priestess. His hand rests comfortably on his Axe, waiting to see how this plays out.
Seems like old Polux has their attention.
"We have travelled far at the advice of a native of these lands and have been assured that this threat would be taken seriously by you. I fwe have been misinformed, we apologize and would ask that you point us in the right direction. Myself, I find it hard to understand why such a blight would not be important to you. All we seek is aid or information."
Zayna says nothing, not being the diplomatic sort and frankly not really caring what happens to the idol. She'd only come along to this country because the others wanted to. She does however watch closely how her new companions handle this situation.
Melthune stands calm and ready. She watches and waits.
The High Priest glances at Taissa, Polux and Stefan, regarding them with cool, appraising eyes, his pudgy lips puckered into a slight frown.
As you addressed him in the Common Tongue he responds in kind for your benefit.
”Mmm… yes,” he says to Amun-ta.
”Thy return is noted; surely thy father would receive you with some praise, perhaps. But what is this? Thou art a priestess of our grand and holy order and what did thou achieve in thy journeys?”
”Thou were taken in battle; yet not as a hostage for thy father’s house; rather, as a slave to be bled for some dark cult? Further, thou did not die with glory, nor did thou achieve some great escape by thy own hand. Rather, thy deliverance was at the hands of foreigners. Thy cannot even ascribe thy rescue to our Lord’s divine workings as they were not His servant but un-believers from the west,” he says in an almost sleepy voice, laced with a condescending tone that it is obvious to all.
Amun-ta looks almost stricken at this point, but she quickly tries to cover it.
”But surely – this cult of shadows; the folk who worship the Great Serpent – they are manifold enemies of our god; surely their power is such that even the greatest warrior would be hard pressed…” she says, trying to explain.
The High Priest shrugs his fleshy shoulders and waves his hand to silence her voice.
”Perhaps, yet we shall never know,” he says with a small, smug smile.
”The reputation of thy father’s House, by thy own actions, is lowly in our eyes. Perhaps thy would now seek to find some reward for thy labors? Eh… it shall be; for let none say that the servants of our Lord are not men of justice – we shall indeed pay thee and thy companions for thy labor; but to give high praise to a child who was made as a slave?” he chuckles a bit, and the other priests who flank him chuckle as well.
”Nay! We shall examine this dark trinket that thou has brought us; if indeed the value that thy ascribe is worth something, rest assured we shall deliver you a fair compensation for thy labors,” he adds with a somewhat bored voice.
”For now, thy ship is marked in the harbor. We shall send a runner to it when a true value of this thing that thou has brought us has been discovered and assessed. Until then, enjoy the pleasures of the city,” he adds, the tone a dismissal.
Taissa had listened, quite perplexed (and curious) by the outward attitude of the Sky Priests to Amun-ta's plight and the presence of Thassilonian relic. She pondered what was going on here.
| 1 person marked this as a favorite. |
You notice that the heraldry of the priest does indeed match the heraldry of the temple. However, you also notice that the guards that moved forward had a symbol on their shields identical to the one on the High Priest’s sash.
In other words, those aren’t temple guards, they’re his personal guards.
You sense that he’s far too arrogant to surround himself with personal guards out of fear in this temple. Instead, you sense that he’s doing it as a show of power. But what prompts his need for a such a show? He’s already the High Priest; does he really need to show it off?
You sense that the real motivation is due to the fact that this person is consolidating his power. These aren’t formal “Temple Guards” – they’re his own private troops. He’s feeling self-satisfied, over-confident and filled with pride. He believes he cannot fail at whatever it is that he is planning, and he will not tolerate anyone who may compromise his position.
You suspect that his “position” is one of great importance but recently achieved.
He acts like he just won an important game; like he’s just conquered some difficult obstacle and things are all coming together for him.
He seems like a man who’s knocked over his enemies somehow, and recently achieved something important and special.
You don’t think he’s in league with any dark cultist – per se – but at the same time you suspect that he’s enjoying the fact that Amun-ta is no longer an important person. That her position of power in the temple seems to have been compromised somehow; but you’re not sure how.
You don’t think it’s as simple as being taken prisoner, though; never mind the fact that she was a slave for a while. If her father is still important then it’s likely that his reputation – as others suggested earlier – should act as a shield to you all.
But this High Priest is treating her like that reputation isn’t important anymore.
He hasn’t done anything with dark cultists – that much is clear when you sensed his contempt for any dark cults.
He’s got his own plots and schemes going. He’s been maneuvering for some time to gain more and more power. He’s got it.
If Amun-ta comes in and informs the priests of the city that a dark cult is on the rise, her own reputation will suddenly skyrocket, obviously.
She’ll look far more impressive than he will – people will want to know what she has to say and think about the issue. They’ll be coming to her and asking her what’s up and treating her like a minor celebrity for a while - which is exactly what you assumed when you came here.
That being the case, this High Priest is clearly doing everything he can to marginalize anyone that could jeopardize the pecking order that he’s established. He’s no dark cultist – he’s just a extremely arrogant man who’s got a big set of insecurities (hence the guards clearly marked as his own men) and he’s doing everything he can to show off his power.
Amun-ta’s father is located on an isthmus near cliffs. His estates have been called powerful. You suspect that’s likely because he has connections with mineral resources given the location.
Therefore it’s likely that he has connections with weapons making, armor making, and potentially rare ores and gems.
This would make him a very important person in the city – a priest and arms dealer is likely to have a substantial amount of wealth and power.
This city has no real central army.
Each Noble House has its own troops or bannermen; that much is clear. In an effort to outdo each other, an arms dealer could make a great deal of money by playing each House off each other, if it so chose.
Given the fact that Amun-ta’s father should have this power, it seems like if someone doesn’t respect his position, there must be a really good reason.
There’s a lot of military forces in this place. Someone who can sell weapons would be very rich.
Someone who is situated in a deep isthmus is away from the general passage of ships, and beyond tall cliffs they’re beyond the reach of most troops marching overland.
This doesn’t make them too remote; but something doesn’t seem right.
If Amun-ta was formally captured by a dark cult and her father was so wealthy, why couldn’t he send forces to try to retrieve her himself?
He’s either done so already and expended a great deal of resources that could have humbled his House financially, or he’s lost his daughter because someone attacked his House to begin with. If that’s the case, they may have attacked again.
If her father’s House could not call on a central army to protect itself if it was attacked that means that other forces in the city – even if they were aware of what was happening to her father’s House – could simply sit back and let it happen and reap the rewards of assuming the new place of power in the city.
In other words, it’s likely that if something bad happened to her father’s House, that other forces – if they were aware of it – deliberately did nothing to aid the House.
His House may need to be examined and quickly.
Zayna notes her observations about the high priest and makes ready to leave with the others.
Taissa made her observations and assessments regarding the High Priest, but held her tongue until such a time they were well away from the Temple, and assured privacy to speak openly.
Turning to Amun-tu, Taissa laid her hand carefully on the Priestess' arm and expressed quietly and diplomatically, "You spoke well. Mayhap we should return you to your Father's house now, for there is nothing more we can do here, at this time." Taissa looked over to Polux, Hack and the others to see if they were ready to leave the Temple.
Then facing the High Priest and his personal guards, Taissa inclined her head to the spiritual leader, in a show of politic respect, and considering his arrogance. "Our gratitude for granting us an audience, and, we shall await your runner and further news on the relic."
The company then turns and exits the temple.
Amun-ta keeps her face completely neutral as she moves fast through the streets as the others move with her.
"You spoke well. Mayhap we should return you to your Father's house now, for there is nothing more we can do here, at this time."
She glances as you as you all move down the streets.
”Aye – thou speaks with wisdom,” she says in answer to your compliment.
Johnny glances at Amun-ta, and stifles his tension as best as he can.
”Yeah, well that fat basterd better come across when he gets that gods damned relic broken,” he says with a low growl.
”Aye…” the priestess responds again, and Johnny glances at her, grinding his teeth a bit at spending this long trip for wealth and reward and so far enjoying neither.
”Alright – how far is your dad’s place by land?” he says with a tense voice.
”It is not far… if thou would travel overland on foot thy should arrive by sundown, perhaps later, perhaps sooner… I do not often travel by foot, though,” she asks.
”Yeah – well, it seems we’re kind of marooned on the pier until that scumbag decides to send for the artifact,” Johnny growls.
”And in the meantime, we can’t stay here forever,” he adds squinting at the docks, seeing the prow of The Seahawk, the sight mellowing him a little.
He pauses in his fast pace, and rolls up a cigarette.
”I need a smoke – anyone fancy a gods damned smoke?” he says glancing around, then lighting up, taking a long inhale and glances at the water, then turns back to the temple.
Blowing out the smoke from his nostrils he looks to the west and sees the jut of cliffs several miles from the city limits. He pauses and turns to his companions, studying them.
”Alright – this is what we’re going to bloody do,” he says briskly, still irked from the foul reception from the High Priest, the frustration clearly coloring his mood.
”Polux – you and your… your team – ya’ll are going to go with Amun-ta and stab overland.”
”My folk can sail circles around yours, but you’re all handy on the ground, right? Good!” he adds somewhat rhetorically.
”That said – Amun-ta; you’re going to get some poxing escort and you’re going to stab west to your dad’s place. You said you can get there by around sundown, right? Well, it’s about an hour until noon – so that should mean you got time.”
”The folk around you have been jawing enough about their need to do some leg work over the ground rather than stick on a ship; so they’re going to come with you.”
”As soon as we get the tip from that stupid priest, we’ll take the coin and set sail to your dad’s estates and meet you there with the loot.”
”By then you’ll have buttered your dad up proper and whatever he’s going to give us will be all set. Then we either square the deal with him and the coin that the priest gives over, or we head back to that temple and take what we’re owed the hard way,” he says somewhat ominously as his hand moves to rest on the butt of his pistol.
Amun-ta looks at him, somewhat surprised that his tone has become so mercenary.
”Why do thee speak so…” she says to him with surprise.
”Hey princess, relax,” he says taking another draw from the cigarette ”We tied up a whole crew’s life on this venture and that jerk-off in the temple brushes you off without even a bloody – How do you do? – So I’m sorry that I’m a little pissed off,” he adds, then takes a deep breath and wipes his hand over his face.
Johnny looks at you all.
”Right – so the thing is; we’re going to get this done proper.”
He glances at Polux and Taissa, his eyes flicking over the hodge-podge of people that are moving around you all and are clearly not spying on you for the various Houses who may be wondering what the collection of strange foreigners may be talking about.
Remembering what Amun-ta said about elves in this place, he decides to try something to forestall the chance of being overheard or spied on.
”Do not fear about the plans of that High Priest. I swear to you all, before we leave this land we will all receive our due.”
He looks at Amun-ta and says something briskly to her.
”That I have offended you was not my intent. My blood was riled; but make no mistake – the rage which burns in me shall burn hotter when we cause him that has given you grief to suffer for it.”
He places his hand on her shoulder gently, and she raises her own hand to touch his for a moment tenderly.
Then he removes his hand, takes another drag from the smoke and looks at your company.
”Right – that said; you’re the lads who wanted to do things on the land, right? Well the way I figure it walking this lass back to her dad’s place will get things done faster than sitting around on the ship waiting for the temple folks to get things done.”
”Plus, it’s overland, you know? So that should be clean sailing for ya’ll,” he says to you all as he looks to his ship.
He pauses and glances back to Taissa –
”Oye – you want me to send your bird pal from the ship to catch up with ya’ll? She can spot you from overhead – if she sees you, she can fly down and catch up with you,” he adds.
”Well – good luck!” he says, then takes his crew back to the ship and leaves you with Amun-ta as she looks at you all.
”Hey – wait – what about all the rest of our stuff and the chance for some proper preparation before we head out…” someone asks.
”No time for that hash now – right now you got business; time to head out,” he says to you as you all get moving quickly at the sound of that advice.
”Aye – so; thou art my escort to my father’s estates? And moreover thou art skilled in the ways of travel overland?” she adds studying you.
”I should think that it should be a fairly simply journey… in your reckoning from here to my father’s estates is barely… eight… no – ten miles,” she says.
”If we hurry we should get there soon,” she adds.
At the mention of Daya, Taissa looked directly at John and asked, "White Fang is onboard, too. I will not split the pack. Daya can fly with him to us -- the pup does not weigh that much. Thank you, Captain John." Taissa hoped the animals would not be spotted by possible enemies as they made their way to them.
She was grateful she brought along all her weapons and backpack. If they were indeed to go by foot to Amun-Ta's father's estates, then they had better be on the lookout for all manner of threat, especially since John and his crew were headed back to The Seahawk.
"Aye, we are skilled in land travel, Amun-Ta", Taissa answered the Osirian's question.
Addressing John in discreet manner, "If things are not as expected at the Priestess' home, I will send word via Daya."
"Let's get going. The sooner we leave, the sooner Amun-Ta can speak to her father. Be on the look out. Something's not quite right in this town."
Daya will fly to Taissa, following John Dodger's directions. She will carry the pup gently in her claws.
As Daya flies, White Fang eyes scour the streets, people and land below, while remaining as quiet as possible so as to not draw attention to them as Taissa had advised earlier. The cool wind blew his white fur as Daya clutched at him as she flew forward toward their Alpha.
As the high priest speaks, and even though Polux has no particular reasons to like or dislike Amun-Ta, apart from the predicament she was dragged into, almost dying to some sacrifice in a far off land, the man flexes his hands several times, feeling the will to pounceon him welling up within in an almost impossible way to overcome - yet he stays put and silent.
Having to bite back several acidic retorts, he leaves with the others, an acrid metallic taste in his mouth, after having been on his best behaviour with someone that instead should receive a different kind of treatment - one involving a spiked club... That's Diplomacy for you - he ponders as they exit the temple.
----------------
As John lays down the plan, Polux nods - "Very well then - we've got a path ahead of us, so let's get it done" - he confirms, pulling his hood over the head, against the sun - "A couple of questions though before we leave - is that kind of attitude back there from the priest normal?" - he addresses Amun-Ta - "I mean, I was expecting some arrogance - many times it comes with power - but that guy was insulting and dismissive" - he pauses for a moment, then adds - "I wonder how your father will react to that? I'm thinking he won't be happy?"
"Don't we have a chance to pass by The Seahawk?" - Polux questions - "I think Snaga would most likely be interested in tagging along with us" - he looks at John, and the others.
At his half-elf companion, the man adds - "Agreed Taissa - lets get on the move" - then casually turning back to Amun-Ta, he adds - "Is this a well travelled path? And well marked, by a road or something similar?"
Hack lights up his pipe with Johnny, and he listens to the rambling plan of action.
Aye, it will be good to work on some solid ground again.
He looks at Polux,
Let's have at it, then. I will take point. Point me in the right direction, lady.
Ahoy! Yeah, in a spoiler I wrote to you after your post I wrote a lot of responses to your stuff, but some of them needed extra clarification from you. I think that may have gotten lost in the shuffle, though.
For example – the musket you gave Melthune – she can have it and the ammo; but it would have required whoever formally took it to lose 750 GP from their formal cut. Was that something you were willing to do? Or Melthune willing to do (via the cut of money), or did you guys decide against giving her the musket after all – I’m still not sure what’s going on with that.
Regarding the Knowledge: Local check – in a previous post you indicated that your roll didn’t reveal anything. At the time I hadn’t seen your roll result, but I did indicate that if I missed it, I would give you results on the nation/culture/political scene in general (a broad overview in ways it deviated from the Core Book), but I didn’t see the roll or result. If I missed it, please let me know.
Regarding Snaga – I know you suggested he could stay behind or come with you, but in this case he’ll kind of follow your orders. Since I know what’s going to happen later, I didn’t want to take the choice for what he does away from you.
Also, you don’t formally have the stats on him yet; I was planning on giving you those when you had done some “Getting to know you” RP with him, but I think that may have gotten lost in the shuffle.
I’ll have his stats later tonight as I suspect you will need them; unless you’d like to RP it out during the afternoon, if you have time?
Is there any way you could PM me your email – I can just email you his character sheet. It would be easier for me, but if not, I’ll do my best to get you a copy later tonight.
Okay – sorry for any confusion.
As the company prepares to set off, Zayna glances at Johnny, immediately catching his drift about what he plans on doing if the High Priest doesn’t “Come Across”, and correctly deduces why he’s suddenly deciding to push for speed even though they just got here.
”In that case, sir, I think my skills may be more useful to you on the ship,” she says.
Johnny squints at her.
There seems to be an entire unspoken conversation between the two glances – each of them communicating more with subtle expressions and the ability to understand each other’s plans than long speeches can.
”Gotcha,” he says with a nod.
”Alright – come along, then. We could use to scrub the decks and sort supplies while the others leg it overland and we wait to deal with this priest,” he adds with a flat voice.
With a mere lifting of her eyebrow and nod of her head she indicates that she understands completely and offers her response.
He glances at you all.
”Polux; as you’re heading overland and Zayna here is planning on trekking with us, I’m sending your boy Snaga to give you a hand. As Taissa’s going to be bringing her pal Daya, I reckon the bird can help guide him to ya’ll.”
He glances again at the ship, and then at the cliffs in the far distance.
”Right – let’s do this,” he adds with a intent voice.
Johnny and the others head back to the ship and you head out to the outskirts of the city…
Taissa – while White Fang at this size is normally about seven or eight pounds, all that Bacon he ate put him at precisely One-Hundred and Fifty ONE pounds! No, just kidding; he’s roughly 7-8 lbs and this time (he’s a little guy, but he’s big enough to do some damage).
However a young Roc carrying a White Warg in its talons all the way over a populated city that’s filled with thousands of people, and at least hundreds of people whose sole purpose is to work and function as spies, watching everyone for clues and mysteries and report any strangeness; this will certainly raise questions and be noticed, even with the natural 20, as there’s really no cover for the Daya to hide in, and this city is really full of expert spies.
However, with Zayna going and you guys needing some backup and Polux requesting Snaga, and Snaga already liking the pup, and Daya explaining your desire to bring White Fang with you, Snaga will volunteer to carry White Fang on his person as he rushes through the city to catch up with you guys.
It will be a lot easier to hide White Fang that way and much easier for Daya’s “Stealth” roll to confuse people into thinking she’s just a regular bird at a high height. In other words, her "Natural 20" via the Stealth Check succeeds easily and no one notices that she is a young Roc, thinking instead that she's probably just a large eagle, if anything.
Again, there’s nothing wrong with Daya carrying White Fang normally (after all, in time she can carry people, she is a Roc after all) but at the same time, this town is a lot more like “King’s Landing” from "Game of Thrones". With thousands of people here it's very likely that someone will notice the two of them and definitely want to find out what’s up.
I hope that is alright if Snaga carries him; if not, please let me know.
The company is roughly a mile outside of the city limits when the majestic Daya banks her flight and slowly circles to the company, easing herself to land nearby.
Taissa looks at her feathered friend, expecting to see White Fang poke his head out of the packs the bird is carrying, but he is not there.
The Roc looks at Taissa –
”Creee Sister,” she says with a proud cry.
”Our warg brother is carried by goblin… They here soon,” she says.
The company turns and sees about a quarter of a mile away is a small, heavily robed and burdened figure running hard that all assume to be Snaga.
”Ship man says to bring things… He is not of flock, but I bring still,” she says as she glances to the packs on her back.
As the water-skins are distributed among the company, they wait and soon Snaga has arrived.
He is indeed carrying White Fang in the “Pooch Pouch” and other various odds and ends.
He moves to Taissa –
”Grond likes to ride too much, I think. I do not mind; one day he will be bigger. Then he can carry us,” he says to Taissa with pleasure at the thought of White Fang being bigger.
White Fang pokes his head out and looks at Taissa and instantly begins a quiet and polite rant about his opinions on the trip –
”Alpha, I am happy to see you, but I am NOT happy because I was not allowed to bring my ball, and that is not fair, because having a ball is not bad, and it is very helpful on adventures when there are no rabbits to chase because pups – I mean – big boys – need to have lots of practice with hunting things and chasing things and chasing balls is very good practice and it’s very hot and I do not like the heat. Can I have some water, because I am thirsty; and I need to pee, and also, do you have bacon? Because bacon is very good to give you lots of strength in the desert, I think, and it has magical power of, um… extra, um… bacon is very good. Can I please have some?”
”Oh – and also, I am very please – I mean, I am pleased to see you are good,” he says the last, as if suddenly remembering that you are his Alpha and like polite pups.
”Now can I have some water, and bacon, and I still need to pee – and I miss my ball; but I am happy to see you. Can you carry me now? I like it when you carry me, it is very snuggly!”
Clearly White Fang has a veritable litany of important and essential information for Taissa…
Snaga looks at Polux –
”Chief – I hear you are not pleased with fighting knife earlier, eh? Do not worry; when I hear that I make you something special – it is almost finished; when it is done, you will like,” he says with a pleased nod.
”Also; priestess gave me these,” he says holding a bag that contains several scrolls.
Amun-ta seems surprised at the presence of Snaga, White Fang, and Daya, but she is pleased at the extra water.
”I thank thee – my allies. My father shall surely reward thee for thy help and efforts; be assured of that!”
”His estates are not far, we should arrive at nightfall,” she says looking at the sky.
”Yet it would be wise, I deem, to be prepared for any eventuality. We have miles to go and the badlands between here and my father’s House are filled with natural difficulties. Further, as it is cooler this time of year, the chance for bandits may be greater. And as the sun travels below the horizon predatory beasts shall begin their hunt for meat in greater numbers, we must be cautious.”
That said, Amun-ta frowns, thinking a bit on why the dangerous journey overland. Clearly she understands, but looking at you all, she decides to elaborate.
”Traveling oversea to my father’s home would indeed have been faster and safer – but I sense that my Captain has other plans for his vessel and his crew tonight. Also, I am certain that his loud cries and big speeches in the streets before all were clearly on purpose to declaim to the foul spies who linger near the Great Temple.”
”Therefore, those same spies shall see us part company and journey overland to my father’s House even as his own folk rest on the ship in view of those who watch him. As we are gone from the city and have journeyed far, then they will not bind our two companies together when whatever he does tonight occurs… Aye! He clearly does not wish any of us near him and his vessel that could be identified with my father’s House if his plans tonight go amiss…” she says with bit of a frown, then shakes her head and sighs.
”I do not fear overmuch for him… I know the disposition of the sailing vessels in this port. When the winds come after the sun sets then it is true that none our native vessels can catch his ship in the open sea…” she adds.