You all arrive in Drenchport without incident again. Like it's namesake, it is pouring rain and visibility is quite poor as you reach the docks. The dockmaster asks the typical questions and writes the name of your ship in his log before letting you past.
As they come to the misery that is the aptly named Drenchport, Adular looks out at the drizzle and sighs, "I get the feeling we've found the chamberpot of the Shackles."
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Trying to keep a good face even with the bleak weather Variel counters the thought from Adular. Now, now, just because it is a bit gloomy does not mean that it is always like this or that we must assume the worst about this place. Let us give it some time to grow on us and we shall see what we can find. In the meantime though perhaps the best idea is to get out of the weather and find us a bar where we can inquire as to the individual we are looking for.
diplomacy to gather info on Jaymiss Keft
I like this weather, as long as we don't have to sail in it." Seijiro says with a smile.
"Oh, something's like to grow on us if we stay here too long, aright." He grins, "But as you two like."
Neko, via telepathy, requested to wait on the ship (in the Captain's Cabin), again, not relishing the idea of venturing around in the storm-ridden town. Rain permitted it.
Upon Adular's successive charges, Rain's expression hardened. "Ill considered words will find you killed in Drenchport, priest."
Looking to her betrothed who had attempted to temper the Half-Elf's loose tongue, Rain quietly added, "Aye, because of the proximity of the Eye of Abendego, this weather is constant", and gave Variel a small smile. Hearing Jiro's words, Rain nodded her head toward the kitsune. She was used to such weather that it did not trouble her.
"Let us move toward Carver's Hall. Best start there to find Jaymiss Keft."
She waited a moment as Variel made his own inquiries.
Rain recollected the direction of the place and set forth/led the others. Her gaze moved about the place/path, hoping to spy anything out of the ordinary or trouble.
Walks along with rain, enjoying himself in the new town
Neko, via telepathy, requested to wait on the ship (in the Captain's Cabin), again, not relishing the idea of venturing around in the storm-ridden town. Rain permitted it.
Upon Adular's successive charges, Rain's expression hardened. "Ill considered words will find you killed in Drenchport, priest."
"Pretty much has that in common with the rest o the shackles then, navigator," Adular chuckles not about to lose his good mood, "Though I appreciate the concern for my skin."
He stays near Jiro, "Mind if I walk with ye a bit, Jiro? Keen eyes and ears like yours are good companions."
"always glad for the company, and,always good to be on a quest for information... this should prove interesting if this jaymiss knows what we've heard he does, and more so if he's willing to part with said information. I only hope he doesn't need to be persuaded too much."
Seijiro keeps a sharp eye out for trouble along the way.
"Touch and go, I reckon. Every person has different ways," Adular says with a smile, "They say each man has his price, but sometimes that price isn't coin."
You are able to find Carver's Hall quickly and easily. It is a large building that looks like a warehouse from the outside but inside it is filled with stalls where master carvers ply their trade. You ask around and are directed to a stall 3/4 of the way into the building. Each stall is labeled with the name of the carver and their specialty. On Jaymiss's stall, in addition to his name, you see that his specialty is in tiny figurines. Jaymiss is a middle aged half-elf with light blonde hair and an air of gruffness about him. Right at the beginning you get the impression that he has a suspicious nature to him. He looks you over and says with a smile that never seems to touch his eyes Good day. How may I serve you? Please take a look around at my stock but I also do custom work as well.
He then returns to his carving, the one he's working on is an exquisite piece that looks to be a manticore. The detail is incredible.
Seijiro is distracted by the work the man is doing and contemplates purchasing a gift for Selenia, forgetting why they are here for the moment...
Rain's gaze moved about the hall - the occupants and respective stalls. She steadily approached the required stall; a small smile upon her face, and carefully picked up one of the more intricate carvings as if an interested buyer, and then spoke discreetly, quietly to the Half-Elf.
"Good day, Master Keft. We will indeed look closer at your fine figurines. However, we have a private matter to discuss with you. We mean you no harm, rest assured. I am Rain Taneththir - My grandfather is Varyan Taneththir of the Fury of the Rain. Is there some place we may speak that affords us some privacy, sir?"
"Exquisite work," Adular admires openly the manticore
Jaymiss smiles at you Rain, somewhat ignoring the others and says I know of Varyan, a good man that one. Not met him meself 'cept in passing. As far as talking, here's as good a place as any. Folk keep to themselves for the most part and them that don't know better than to eavesdrop on me. What can I help ye with dearie?
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As this was Rain's home island and she knew her way about Variel let her take the lead in any talks with the carver. Variel stood close enough to Lear anything that he might say but faced out away from their conversation. He picked up a piece of carving as well to inspect it but really was looking around at anyone nearby. Not even knowing what he ding he asksJaymiss, How much for the carving?
Finding a spot some time to talk as they are traveling even if it means lagging back a bit Variel gets Adular alone. Hey Adular you got a second. The reason I ask is that I think you might have hit a little too close to home on Rain there. This being her home and calling it a piss bucket I don't think sat too kindly with her. Now I know what you meant with the rain and all but people get a bit touchy when it comes to their homes. Not saying you need to apologize but just letting you know what is what if she gives you the cold shoulder while you are here.
Rain met Jaymiss' smile with sincerity as she felt Variel's solid presence by her side. She continued to speak with some discretion, "Aye, my Grandfather is a very good Elf; I thank you. Well, Master Keft, we have come seeking information on current Chelaxian spies working clandestinely in the Shackles. We have been led to believe that you may hold such information. If this is correct, would you be willing to tell us what you know or have heard, sir? We are willing to pay coin or trade services for any useful information."
Spoiler:Finding a spot some time to talk as they are traveling even if it means lagging back a bit Variel gets Adular alone. Hey Adular you got a second. The reason I ask is that I think you might have hit a little too close to home on Rain there. This being her home and calling it a piss bucket I don't think sat too kindly with her. Now I know what you meant with the rain and all but people get a bit touchy when it comes to their homes. Not saying you need to apologize but just letting you know what is what if she gives you the cold shoulder while you are here.
Rain met Jaymiss' smile with sincerity as she felt Variel's solid presence by her side. She continued to speak with some discretion, "Aye, my Grandfather is a very good Elf; I thank you. Well, Master Keft, we have come seeking information on current Chelaxian spies working clandestinely in the Shackles. We have been led to believe that you may hold such information. If this is correct, would you be willing to tell us what you know or have heard, sir? We are willing to pay coin or trade services for any useful information."
Amen-set listens to Rain speak and turns to look at the man thoughtfully.
"My lady speaks the truth, sir. She shall be happy to repay any courtesy you can afford us," Amen-set says with a bow, hoping to aid Rain's attempts.
Horatio says nothing at this time, letting the others do their business. While he gives the wares a cursory glance as a matter of form, he spends the majority of his time watching the streets and general area.
The man seems suspicious and edgy - as if he's nervous of something, or someone. Not surprising if there are covert agents in the town working for Cheliax.
For now he will merely content himself with watching the streets for anyone that seems suspicious.
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Variel shrugs his shoulders as the priest ask him his opinion. To tell the truth I am not sure but I would eat the crow now before it goes on too much longer. Who knows who else we will run into that Rain knows and I would not want them to be negatively influenced in dealings with you by her words or reactions in your presence.
Variel pauses a moment as he looks at Rain ahead of them. I know she would not do anything to you personally but that is not to say that someone she knows would not take out any greviances upon you thinking to right a slight or wrong. This is the shackles still even if it is Rain's home.
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Sorry, I did not mean to make it sound like you would be bullied into changing your mind. Rather I would prefer to see this come to an agreeable end before a third party steps in trying to reconcile a wrong that is nothing more than a misunderstanding. The sooner we are back to an amicable or friendly nature the better we all are.
As for apologizing to any one else I do not think that is necessary. This is between y and Rain and we should be bpable to leave it at that. Thanks for your understanding Adular.
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Jaymiss looks around before lowering his voice and says Now I'm not one to normally go telling tales of folk but I've had my eye on a particular man that's got a real bad air about him. I hear tell of most things around Drenchport and there be a man named Haddon that do stink of something bad. He is a beachcomber, fisherman, and occasional smuggler. The thing is, many of Haddon’s supposed smuggling trips down south in a hired boat don’t actually involve moving goods. Now I know the black market in Drenchport pretty well, and I've noticed that Haddon seldom buys or sells any contraband goods before or after these trips. I've also heard tell of strange folk coming and going on occasion to his cottage at odd hours. That coupled with the rumors of spies makes for a likely candidate don't you think? He then gives you the location of Haddon's cottage if you want to check it out yourselves.
He then gives you the location of Haddon's cottage if you want to check it out yourselves.
Horatio does not respond, for now he will allow the others to decide what they're going to do, though he certainly is focused on the information.
Meanwhile, he continues to observe the surrounding streets for any trouble.
Horatio continues to stare at the streets with a scowl.
While he can't see anything, something doesn't feel quite right.
The fact that everyone, including Jaymiss, is speaking in such hushed whispers - as if they don't want someone to overhear them...
Though he doesn't see anything of note, he continues to watch the streets until the others are ready to act.
Now I know the black market in Drenchport pretty well, and I've noticed that Haddon seldom buys or sells any contraband goods before or after these trips. I've also heard tell of strange folk coming and going on occasion to his cottage at odd hours. That coupled with the rumors of spies makes for a likely candidate don't you think? He then gives you the location of Haddon's cottage if you want to check it out yourselves.
Rain had not heard the name before. She listened to Jaymiss' account of the man's activities and nodded her head at the end. Still speaking in quieter tones, "Aye, I would like to know the location of his cottage. Apart from the strange people coming and going from his cottage, does Haddon have any known associates? Others we should worry about in Drenchport or beyond?"
Since his chat with Variel, Adular has grown quiet. He is now focused on the interaction between Rain and Jaymiss.
The man shakes his head before saying None that I can give you a name for. There is a feeling of unease about the Shackles of late. Can't put my finger on it but people seem just generally a little more nervous than usual without knowing why. Could be all these rumors of spies and such but who knows. With that he goes back to his carving.
The man shakes his head before saying None that I can give you a name for. There is a feeling of unease about the Shackles of late. Can't put my finger on it but people seem just generally a little more nervous than usual without knowing why. Could be all these rumors of spies and such but who knows. With that he goes back to his carving.
Horatio turns a glance from his place to the man, and a frown is on his face as he listens, especially to the words about spies from Cheliax.
What manner of folk are these to fear Cheliax so much? Sargava defeated them; surely they can, too...
Unless it is something more insidious?
He turns a glance to Amen-set and his eyes narrow as he considers the stone that she had found, but he says nothing about it at this time.
Well, now we know where to find this person. That said - what more are we waiting for?
At Jaymiss' last words before he returned to his whittling, Rain gave a nod, "We will look into this Haddon and you have our gratitude for the information."
A small, grey wood dolphin among Jaymiss' collection of carvings caught her attention and she picked it up. "How much for the dolphin, Master Keft?" If the price was not unreasonable, Rain paid the Half-Elf the coin and carefully placed the carving in her cloak pocket before inclining her head and bidding the carver farewell.
By the door of Carver's Hall, Rain motioned for the others to draw near and whispered to them over the sound of the rain outside, "This Haddon's cottage is located on the outskirts of town, on the cliff overlooking the harbour. We should scout it out before figuring out what our next move will be. Are we all in agreement?"
Adular delayed a second as well, "If you do custom requests, Master Carver, I may have one for you as well. I'll be in with a description and pay you well."
By the door of Carver's Hall, Rain motioned for the others to draw near and whispered to them over the sound of the rain outside, "This Haddon's cottage is located on the outskirts of town, on the cliff overlooking the harbour. We should scout it out before figuring out what our next move will be. Are we all in agreement?"
"Sounds sensible to me. I've an invisibility spell I can cast to increase our odds...."
"Sounds sensible to me. I've an invisibility spell I can cast to increase our odds...."
Rain had heard Adular's inquiry into a custom carving and gave the priest space to conduct his business.
At his reply to casting invisibility, she inclined her head. "If we move closer by foot, it will be an advantage. Or perhaps we may send in Dhaavan's thrush, Jack, first and he can report back to his master what he sees and then we may take the next step. I know Amen has Horus, Rain looked to the girl and Flynn, but I was uncertain if the bird could relay information via speech, as Dhaavan's bird can. If he can, then either bird may scout ahead, from the air."
At his reply to casting invisibility, she inclined her head. "If we move closer by foot, it will be an advantage. Or perhaps we may send in Dhaavan's thrush, Jack, first and he can report back to his master what he sees and then we may take the next step. I know Amen has Horus, Rain looked to the girl and Flynn, but I was uncertain if the bird could relay information via speech, as Dhaavan's bird can. If he can, then either bird may scout ahead, from the air."
Adular thinks on it further, "Mind you, that only affects one of us, but I also have a silence spell. I'm good with whatever plan our experts on stealth," He gestures to Jiro and Rain "have in mind."
"Mind you, that only affects one of us, but I also have a silence spell. I'm good with whatever plan our experts on stealth," He gestures to Jiro and Rain "have in mind."
Rain gave another nod of approval. "Jiro has a great advantage with his ever-changing skin to blend with the background. I stand out more - especially with these silver dragon wings - yet, I do know how to move quietly. Let us be prudent with our spells lest this Haddon starts a fight, and whomever he is allied with join in. If Jiro is willing, then he and I can move forward first and observe the cottage and its inhabitant. What say you, Jiro? Or is the scouting bird option more to the group's liking?" Rain's turquoise eyes scanned the faces of the officers present, eager to hear their thoughts and to make a decision.
Looking at Rain he says Normally ten gold but for you my dear, 5 will do nicely.
Looking at Rain he says Normally ten gold but for you my dear, 5 will do nicely.
"You are generous. Thank you, Master Keft."
Seijiro will look over the wares, looking for a pair of merfolk in a single carving. If there is none like it, he'll address Jaymiss... "WIll you take a second commission? I'd like a pair of merfolk, entwined sort of, if you get my drift... How much would that be to be ready also as quickly as possible."
He turns to Rain.. "Scouting would be fine.. perhaps have the bird scout first if it can speak and tell Amen what it saw, if not, just us then."
Rain had noted Jiro's particular interest in the carvings on Jaymiss' table and waited until the kitsune had conducted his business and was ready to move along.
Looking to Amen-set once again, Rain asked the question anew, "Amen, is Horus able to communicate his observations to you? If so, are you willing to have him scout out the cottage? If the answer is no, then we must go, as it is a long walk to the cliffs. Unless..."
Rain goes on to explain how she could attempt to use the mule cords she recently purchased to fly Jiro closer to the clifftop cottage and they could then move in, quietly on foot.
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Variel puts down the carving he was holding as it seemed the discussion was wrapping up. Nodding to Jaymiss in appreciation for the information Variel waits to discuss further avenues in a more secluded area. As Rain, Adular and Jiro discuss option Variel listens in but doesn't not have much to add. He is not stealthy nor can he communicate with animals nor a kinship with nature. His spell preparation was also not too useful unless someone wanted to fly. As such he waits and listens to the others trying to glean any possibility to help them scout ahead.
Jaymiss looks at the Kitsune and says Not sure. I can't promise I'll have it ready before tomorrow. How long you folks staying in town?
He turns to Rain.. "Scouting would be fine.. perhaps have the bird scout first if it can speak and tell Amen what it saw, if not, just us then."
Horatio’s attentive vigilance at the street is suddenly checked and he turns slowly around, his eyes flat.
Amen-set glances at Horatio and watches him, she starts to speak, then seems unsure as what she might say, which seems uncharacteristic.
Looking to Amen-set once again, Rain asked the question anew, "Amen, is Horus able to communicate his observations to you? If so, are you willing to have him scout out the cottage? If the answer is no, then we must go, as it is a long walk to the cliffs. Unless..."
Amen-set glances at Horatio, who has turned back to look at the streets.
”Aye! It is so, senet. Indeed, it is a certainty that I know his tongue and can understand his speech,” she answers quickly, her eyes flicking to Horatio’s back as she glances suddenly back to Rain.
”He can explore far, aye, if it is requested…” she adds.
Horatio pulls out a cheroot and suddenly lights it.
Given the wood carvings, the wood chips and shaving, and the various lacquers, stains and dyes for the woodworking – most of them highly flammable - the action prompts many stern glares from merchants.
Observing the looks Horatio apparently sees them as a invitation to leave and takes the cue. He turns to the company and tips his hat and strides from the shops and leaves without a word.
Amen-set watches him leave and turns to Rain.
”Apologies, senet! I will wait for thee and thy company outside…” she says hastily and then follows Horatio outside quickly, her expression somewhat nervous as she hurries out.
Seijiro looks to variel for some input on how long we'll be here. He shrugs to Jaymiss and says simply "Not sure yet"