Those in the group who had to collect their coin for exchange did so promptly from the inn as Delfi waited on the corner, admiring her new ribbons. She begrudgingly puts them away, inside her satchel, when she sees the group returning.
"We're off to Grellen & Sons now," and she turns and leads the way forward, along Tula's Walk.
They pass by the first Smithy, but do not stop for now and move toward the two-storey building with its smoking chimney and three windows in the top storey. There is a moderate-sized/discreet but expensive plaque above the door proclaiming Grellen & Sons.
Entering through the heavy doors of the building, you see a wall of thick wood and two small windows with bars three quarters down with only a space left to pass items to the moneychanger and vice versa. Two human males sit at each "window", quite well dressed and with a similar appearance, although one is much older than the other (perhaps father and son?). Both males are fair-skinned, dark haired and eyed, and the elder is bespectacled and has a neat moustache and beard.
As you approach his window, he looks up from his ledger, "Good afternoon. I am Chosk Grellan. How may I be of service to you this day?"
As you approach his window, he looks up from his ledger, "Good afternoon. I am Chosk Grellan. How may I be of service to you this day?"
Connor moves to spread out a bit and separate himself from Riley somewhat.
On the surface this merely looks like he is giving his allies some room to see the window and the building better, but to a more seasoned veteran it also allows the rouge the chance to flank with him if something dangerous occurred.
He looks at the men for a moment, then nods his head.
"Hail and well met," he says to them with a courteous voice.
"We are travelers who have recently arrived at this town."
"We have found that gold coins are easier to do business with then the coin we have been carrying, so we wish to exchange those coins for gold coin instead."
"We were told you could help us with this service," he says, watching the man.
Riley notices Connor's discreet move and assumes formation, prepared to defend the group if needed. He awaits the response to Connor's request. He takes note of the warrior's shrewdness.
"So am I to take it that each person of your party requires a simple coin exchange this day? If so, I will require your lower denomination coins, one person at a time. If one of your companions would like to use the other window, my son, Lang, will assist them in order to make the transaction as smooth and efficient as possible."
As each person moves to the window to exchange their respective 3,700 copper pieces ad 800 silver pieces, father and son count, place the coins in neat piles of 100 and bind them, and then move away from the counters and promptly return with the gold and platinum pieces.
"Is three platinum pieces, eighty gold pieces and seven silver pieces acceptable to each person for the exchange? Or would you prefer that we exchange more of the gold for platinum pieces?"
"Is three platinum pieces, eighty gold pieces and seven silver pieces acceptable to each person for the exchange? Or would you prefer that we exchange more of the gold for platinum pieces?"
Connor nods his head at the statement.
"I am content with that," he says with a polite voice.
As he waits for the money to be counted, he looks around at the well-organized and well-maintained business.
"You have a fine House, Ghosk Grellen," he says studying the establishment.
"I am pleased to do business with you and - if my Fate allows it - I look forward to doing more business with you in the future," he adds with a courteous voice.
Upon word that the exchange is acceptable, both father and son begin to bag up the coins and hand them across to each member of the party through the designated window slots. Their hands move efficiently to bundle and circulate the coins.
A slow, small smile spreads across the face of Chosk Grellan upon the braod and tall warrior's words. "We have the honour of being one of the longest standing businesses in Belhaim and your praise is acknowledged and well received, sir. Well, if that is all we can do for you this day, thank you for your patronage; until we meet, again."
Connor nods again at the man.
"Thank you again for your service," he says to the man, then turns and leaves.
Riley nods to the gentlemen and then follows Connor to the smithy.
Riley nods to the gentlemen and then follows Connor to the smithy.
Connor glances at Riley as the Half-Elf walks with him.
"Well, that went better than I expected," he says.
"Still, we cannot always be so lucky. Let us remember we are strangers here when it comes to showing our courtesy; yet I wonder what is the best course for us should we meet a person who is not as courteous as Talia Orem or Ghosk Grellen?" he muses thoughtfully.
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Chance Smithy was much smaller in comparison to the moneychangers' shop and home.
It was a single-storey dwelling. The interior of the workshop was wooden, even the windows had thick wooden shutters. A large stone chimney took pride of place in the centre of the building, surrounded by thick stone bench, with various tools of the trade hanging on the walls and on hooks in the stone work bench. Large metal buckets filled the floor, some empty, some with water. On the far end of the workshop stood (on racks or hung from ceiling) his finished stock of armour, shields and weapons.
1 Falchion, 1 Rapier, 1 Longsword, 1 Warhammer, 1 Heavy Mace, 1 Heavy Spiked Shield, 2 Chainshirts, 1 Chainmail, 1 Masterwork Agile Breastplate, one +1 Bashing Heavy Steel Shield, a handful of Daggers and an eastern-style curved blade called a Kukri.
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The blacksmith himself was a mountain of a man - 6'5" tall and around 225 lbs of thick muscle. His shoulder-length, dirty blonde hair was pulled back with a cord, his skin was tanned and his eyes were a cold, deep blue. His shirt was half open, exposing his broad chest and his sleeves rolled - the skin on his chest, arms and face shone with sweat. The most vivid marking, however, was the long, angry scar running from under his right eye to his right jaw.
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Marcus Chance is hammering loudly as you move closer to to his forge. If he knows of your presence he does not give it away (paying you no heed) and continues to beat the metal into perfect submission.
Delfi looks at the big man and carefully approaches - placing an assured smile on her face and readying herself to interrupt the blacksmith and introduce the adventurers.
"Does your sister know you're here, lil miss?" Marcus Chance's voice is deep and the dangerous timbre resonates inside the workshop. "If she doesn't, you better be on your way. Now. I'm not in the mood to be pestered."
Delfi stands still and steels her courage. "Ah, Mister Chance, Talia has sent me with these fine folk. They are newly arrived and are eager to see your armour and weapons." The girl keeps her smile in place as if her very life depended upon it. She had crossed paths with this backsmith in town, but never dealt with him personally. "Um, Jax sends his regards."
Only the sound of hammering greets hers and the others ears for a moment or two.
"Jax gave me no trouble. I've never disliked you or your kin, lil miss, so give me no cause to."
The blacksmith turned to look at the group assembled in his workshop. He held the hammer tightly in his hand and Delfi took a step back, not remotely wanting to give Marcus Chance cause to strike her with it if he saw her as a nuisance.
Marcus Chance does not speak and continues to wait for the party to address him.
Connor listens to Delfi's interaction with the smith.
He notes the way she was treated and his eyes narrow, but he says nothing.
Looking at the limited list of goods and wares that are available here he realizes that the man has nothing he wants or needs at this time.
For now he'll wait in the back for the others to study the goods and make their decisions.
While he waits he decides to keep quiet, leaving the conversation to the others, knowing that if he opens his mouth then there will likely only be trouble as he's already not pleased with how the man interacted with Delfi.
If there are other items available for sale in the back, he will wait and see; but for now he waits to see what his friends will do first.
Riley moves over and stands between Delfi and the smithy. He had met many men like this Chance fellow before and figured he was a harmless old goat, but he positioned himself as a shield for Delfi from the man's words anyway. "Well met, mate. You do some lovely work here." He looks around and whistles at the agile breastplate. "Nice indeed. What is the chance that you could use these? I am looking to get them off my hands." He shows the man his old tools.
"Good afternoon, Master Chance," Rhialtyra said pleasantly. She stepped forward, next to Riley. Her expression and demeanor could have been described as polite. It hadn't escaped her notice that Delfi was nervous about being near this man - or that Riley had moved forward just enough to block the blacksmith's access to her if he sought to strike her.
"The items that you've displayed do you credit," she noted, admiring the tools. She halted her speech, then, to let Riley conclude his business before asking, "Master Chance, have you a shortspear or some leather armor? Though beautifully crafted, I'm afraid the pieces you have out are a bit more complex or heavier than I can handle."
You yourself advised courtesy and yet now you let yourself become angered? Put that aside, fool! For now you are to conduct business...
The words echoed in his head as if his uncle was speaking to him, but Connor could not ignore their wisdom.
Therefore he took a deep breath and did what he could to be courteous to this person.
"Greetings, Marcus Chance," he says with a nod of his head.
"Your works are well-forged; I honor your skill," he adds as his eyes roam over the pieces.
"I am curious to see if you have any other items of note that you could show us."
"I enjoy seeing good craftsmanship," he added with a calm and polite voice.
1. MW Short Sword (should be 320 GP
2. MW Heavy Wooden Quick Draw Shield (should be roughly 207 GP)
Chance looks from the half-breed to the pretty woman to the warrior.
He takes a quick look at the Thieves' Tools in the man's hands and replies coolly, "I'll give you 15 gold pieces for 'em and no more."
The blacksmith's eyes travel the form of Rhialtyra, seemingly enjoying her feminine curves. He was not swayed by pretty words, but she did have a pretty mouth. "Sensina has your leather amour and Bacchus your shortspear. But I am much better with my hands than those two milksops", and gives a short, hard chuckle; a wicked spark in his deep blue eyes as they watch her.
Marcus Chance draws his focus back to the biggest of the group and listens to his measured, polite words.
"I got the first; the masterwork sword will set ya back 310 gold pieces - take it or leave it. I don't work with wood - try Bacchus for the shield."
"I got the first; the masterwork sword will set ya back 310 gold pieces - take it or leave it. I don't work with wood - try Bacchus for the shield."
Connor nods.
"Done," he says to the man, and hands over the coin for the weapon.
The blacksmith nods his head at the man's quick accord. He ambles to a curtained off back room and returns with a finely crafted short sword in a braided leather scabbard and hands it to the warrior. "Let her taste flesh and blood - the more the better." Marcus Chance grins and takes the coin with a hard smile.
"Let her taste flesh and blood - the more the better." Marcus Chance grins and takes the coin with a hard smile.
Connor grins darkly at the comment and lifts the sword and slides it from the sheathe and studies the blade.
Satisfied with its work, he slides it into the sheathe and buckles it on his belt.
"My thanks," he says to the man with a nod of his head.
Connor then looks at his comrades and waits for them to make their purchases, or to head to the next shop.
"I'll give you 15 gold pieces for 'em and no more."
"You have a deal. Thanks." He watches as the dirty man eyeballs Rhia. Good luck, mate. She is much too cultured for your ugly ass.
The blacksmith takes fifteen gold pieces from the coin given to him by the warrior and hands them to the half breed as he takes possession of the tools. Marcus Chance breaks his focus to look upon Delfi Orem. "Lil miss, please be sure to tell your sister I've been thinking of her, fondly," and with one final smirk, the blacksmith moved back toward his forge, and called out "Now, go."
Delfi didn't like the smith thinking of her sister one way or another, but she bit down her retort and merely nodded, "I will, Mister Chance" and turned on her heel and moved away - a little down the street from Chance Smithy. She shook off the unpleasantness of the man and looked up at Riley and the others, speaking quietly, "Pay him no heed for he knows no other way to speak." Delfi gave a small smile, settling the tension inside of her, and then announced with more eagerness "Let's move to Sensina Hides and then to Baccus Smithy. They're much friendlier."
As they walked, Delfi pulled Riley down to her and whispered up against his ear, "Please don't tell Talia what Marcus Chance said to me. She won't like it and she will go to his shop and have it out with him."
Riley takes the gold and stares at the smithy as he makes his remark to Delfi. Soon, mate, soon. He smiles and and bites his tongue.
As they walk away and Delfi speaks to him, "Your secret is safe with me, Sweet." He winks at the young girl and walks alongside her.
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Delfi's looks deeply into Riley's eyes and believes him when he says he won't tell. "Thanks, Riley. I don't want Talia near Mister Chance. Ever."
The group continue their walk back down Tula Walk, when Delfi interrupts the general silence which has fallen over the group since their meeting with the brutish blacksmith.
"I'm sorry I didn't take you to Master Sensina's earlier. Let's go there now since Mistress Rhialtyra seeks armour made from leather. His leatherwork is the finest in these parts. And then I can take Mistress Rhialtyra to the tailor, Mistress Soorey, whose shop is directly across from Master Sensina's. Then onto Baccus Smithy and finally Xemne's Tonics."
It only takes a handful of minutes to reach the leatherworker's place of business.
The shop is only a little bigger than Chance Smithy, with a little covered doorway in front. The smell of tanned rawhide and cattle hide is potent as the party move through the doorway into the shop within.
"Ah, Miss Delfi, so good of you to come see me!", the leatherworker announced as soon as he sighted the girl. "And you've brought friends! Welcome, welcome. I am Theon Sensina. How may I be of service this day?"
The proprietor is a man of medium height and build. He has a thick head of dark hair, sparkling green eyes and an amused smile on his face. He appears to be in his late 20's.
On the two long shelves there are a number of leather goods on display: belts, bags, satchels, gloves, as well as soft, ladies leather boots and leather armour hangs on the other side: three suits of studded leather, three suits of simple leather and what appears to be a finer set of armour: +1 studded leather.
"Thanks, Riley. I don't want Talia near Mister Chance. Ever."
Riley smiles at Delfi. "I'll promise you one other thing...If he every even thinks of doing harm to either of you, I will kill him."
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Delfi looked into Riley's hazel eyes, a little darker than her own, and contemplated his promise. After a few moments had passed, she simply answered, "I believe you", but did not seem disturbed by Riley's threat of death against the smith.
As they walked, Delfi pulled Riley down to her and whispered up against his ear, "Please don't tell Talia what Marcus Chance said to me. She won't like it and she will go to his shop and have it out with him."
Connor seems confused at this concern - it seemed clear that Talia was not only competent, but it seemed logical that if she confronted this man then he would certainly be corrected with either words or blood.
In short - despite the size and bluster of this Chance fellow, Connor doubted highly that Talia would loose a contest between her and the smith.
Riley smiles at Delfi. "I'll promise you one other thing...If he every even thinks of doing harm to either of you, I will kill him."
Connor glances at Riley with surprise. While he supported aiding a friend, it seemed to him that it would be more courteous to let Delfi kill the scoundrel herself.
He ponders this for a moment, then hears her response.
"I believe you", but did not seem disturbed by Riley's threat of death against the smith.
Connor considers the somewhat muted enthusiasm she had regarding Riley's support and decides to turnt he conversation to lighter matters.
The girl was both cunning and had shown herself to be brave; such cunning deserved to be praised, and rewarded...
"That man insulted you, yet you endured it well," he says with a nod at her.
"There is an old Halfling saying - Revenge - like a beer - is best served cold..."
A rare grin lights his face as they walk.
"Halfling folk are small, but doughty, and though their speech may seem odd, they have proven to be very cunning and resourceful."
"As for that dungheap?" he says as he glances back to the smithy in the distance as they walk down the dirt road together "Your time with him shall come, never fear. And then you may have a proper reckoning," he says with a friendly clap of his heavy hand on her shoulder.
"That said, this is for you."
Then he unhooks his old short sword and holds out the sheathed weapon to her.
"It took three Ustalavian cavaliers; twelve Brevoyian men-at-arms and seventeen orcs of Clan Grishnak to the ground during its time with me."
"Treat it well and it shall serve you well in equal measure," he says to her.
When he arrives at the new shop, he pauses and notes the store owner come to greet them.
"Ah, Miss Delfi, so good of you to come see me!", the leatherworker announced as soon as he sighted the girl. "And you've brought friends! Welcome, welcome. I am Theon Sensina. How may I be of service this day?"
"Hail and well met, Theon Sansina," he says to the man with a friendly smile.
"I am Connor son of Ceorl, a guest of the Lady Delfi of House Orem," he says with a nod at Delfi.
"That said, this is for you." Then he unhooks his old short sword and holds out the sheathed weapon to her.
"It took three Ustalavian cavaliers; twelve Brevoyian men-at-arms and seventeen orcs of Clan Grishnak to the ground during its time with me."
"Treat it well and it shall serve you well in equal measure," he says to her.
The girl listened to Connor speak of the smith and her endurance and a possible need for vengeance.
Delfi smiled at the warrior and shook her head. "It's a fine sword, but I cannot accept it, Master Connor. I do not possess the aptitude to wield it as it should be wielded. I would only cause more harm than good with it. I prefer smaller, simpler weapons, and I'm good with them. Your offering is most generous, but you should keep it or sell it and use the coin to acquire other weapons for yourself." She gave the warrior a reassuring smile, hoping his heart would not be injured by her refusal.
"As for vengeance, I seek none. His words were a brute's bluster. I'll not become him; a dark and twisted creature."
"Hail and well met, Theon Sensina," he says to the man with a friendly smile.
"I am Connor son of Ceorl, a guest of the Lady Delfi of House Orem," he says with a nod at Delfi.
"Well met, sir. House Orem is a fine and honourable house and any guest of theirs is welcome in my store. Look around, if you have an interest, and I am certain we can strike an accord if something is to your liking." Looking to the group at large, he adds, "To any of your liking."
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After your purchases are completed at Sensina's, your party heads toward the building displaying the white painted plaque Soorey's Garments.
The shop is two storey - with the trade hall and foot-pedalled sewing machines on the bottom floor and the bed chambers and living quarters on the top storey. The interior is neat and bolts of vivid cloth line the shelves of the walls in many colours.
These are displays with ready-made dresses, skirts, tunics and blouses - pretty yet simple.
Other smaller shelves house buttons of every shape and colour, and trim - ribbons and lace. Parchment paper is strewn on the work tables. Toward the back of the lower floor, men's shirts and trousers are hanging, with their own shelf of cloth for custom made men's suits and other articles of clothing.
There are six people working inside the shop - three Humans and three Half-Elves. A Half-Elven female looks up from one of the sewing machines and adjusting her spectacles, she smiles, stands and approaches the group.
She is of average height and slim, with long, wavy, copper-red hair pulled up in a messy bun. There is a charcoal stick pushed into the knot. Her eyes are a lovely warm green behind the spectacles. She appears to be in her mid 40's.
"Oh, good afternoon, and welcome to Soorey's Garments. I recognise Miss Delfi, so you must be the strangers recently come to town. I'm Dorcas Soorey! Come closer, I don't bite!"
"If you're interested in my garments, ready-made or custom-made, I'd be too happy to help. For the ready-made garments, I can make alterations and add any trimmings you'd like. I can measure you up while you're in the store. If you'd like something fancier, I can sit and design a dress or suit, and my people and I will get to work on them. This of course may take a little time ... It's always quicker to pick something from the stands and we can measure and alter - takes only but a day. Let me know what you'd rather. Come, look around."
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The blacksmith's eyes travel the form of Rhialtyra, seemingly enjoying her feminine curves. He was not swayed by pretty words, but she did have a pretty mouth. "Sensina has your leather amour and Bacchus your shortspear. But I am much better with my hands than those two milksops", and gives a short, hard chuckle; a wicked spark in his deep blue eyes as they watch her.
Rhialtyra hid her thoughts behind a polite smile and said only, "It is a shame then, good sir, that you handle neither the leather armor or the shortspear in them. I imagine a man as great as you would be more than capable in the crafting of either regardless, though." Such utterances had been commonplace in the slums while she took the time to heal the wounded or help the sick, so she'd quickly learned to sidle past them to keep things civil.
Let others think that she was simple or sly - her only task was to achieve what she needed and be gone, anyways. In the slums, that had been healing. Here, it was learning that neither of her desired purchases were available here.
"Good day, Master Chance," she said, nodding to him politely before slipping out to wait outside, occupying herself with considering which god would handle him after he passed. Some said it was the gods that balanced out the scales, after all.
"Let's move to Sensina Hides and then to Baccus Smithy. They're much friendlier."
Rhialtyra felt less slimy the further they got from the man's smithy, and given the way Delfi lightened as they moved away, she assumed the girl felt similarly. She didn't catch what she said to Riley, but given what Riley said back, she assumed they were well enough.
At the girl's announcement, Rhialtyra smiled, "That would be wonderful, Delfi, thank you." She was happy to think about the equipment she would be outfitting herself with rather than their encounter with the Chance Smithy.
The group fell quiet for a bit, then, but only for a few moments.
The group continue their walk back down Tula Walk, when Delfi interrupts the general silence which has fallen over the group since their meeting with the brutish blacksmith.
"I'm sorry I didn't take you to Master Sensina's earlier. Let's go there now since Mistress Rhialtyra seeks armour made from leather. His leatherwork is the finest in these parts. And then I can take Mistress Rhialtyra to the tailor, Mistress Soorey, whose shop is directly across from Master Sensina's. Then onto Baccus Smithy and finally Xemne's Tonics."
It only takes a handful of minutes to reach the leatherworker's place of business.
The shop is only a little bigger than Chance Smithy, with a little covered doorway in front. The smell of tanned rawhide and cattle hide is potent as the party move through the doorway into the shop within.
"Ah, Miss Delfi, so good of you to come see me!", the leatherworker announced as soon as he sighted the girl. "And you've brought friends! Welcome, welcome. I am Theon Sensina. How may I be of service this day?"
The proprietor is a man of medium height and build. He has a thick head of dark hair, sparkling green eyes and an amused smile on his face. He appears to be in his late 20's.
On the two long shelves there are a number of leather goods on display: belts, bags, satchels, gloves, as well as soft, ladies leather boots and leather armour hangs on the other side: three suits of studded leather, three suits of simple leather and what appears to be a finer set of armour: +1 studded leather.
She tried to shake off the dark feeling that had fallen on her since the previous shop and smiled at the leatherworker's kind greeting for Delfi. As she had said, he appeared to be much kinder.
"Hello, Master Sensina," Rhialtyra greeted, "I am Rhialtyra Sunaki of Oppara. I'm looking to obtain a suit of leather armor for myself. Will you tell me a bit about these suits here and how much you're selling them for?" She gestured towards the simple leather, the studded leather, and the particularly nice looking studded leather armor.
--
There are six people working inside the shop - three Humans and three Half-Elves. A Half-Elven female looks up from one of the sewing machines and adjusting her spectacles, she smiles, stands and approaches the group.
She is of average height and slim, with long, wavy, copper-red hair pulled up in a messy bun. There is a charcoal stick pushed into the knot. Her eyes are a lovely warm green behind the spectacles. She appears to be in her mid 40's.
"Oh, good afternoon, and welcome to Soorey's Garments. I recognise Miss Delfi, so you must be the strangers recently come to town. I'm Dorcas Soorey! Come closer, I don't bite!"
"If you're interested in my garments, ready-made or custom-made, I'd be too happy to help. For the ready-made garments, I can make alterations and add any trimmings you'd like. I can measure you up while you're in the store. If you'd like something fancier, I can sit and design a dress or suit, and my people and I will get to work on them. This of course may take a little time ... It's always quicker to pick something from the stands and we can measure and alter - takes only but a day. Let me know what you'd rather. Come, look around."
Rhialtyra perked up at the sight of the busy shop - it made her think of the bustle of home... or where home used to be, anyways. "This is wonderful!" she said, feeling oddly light.
"Mistress Doorey, your shop reminds me of some of the best shops in Oppara!" she enthused - which, actually, it did. It wasn't as fancy as maybe a noblewoman's personal seamstress, but it made her think of the particularly well clothed gentle men and women that she often saw on the streets or who visited her father's store.
She drew out the dress she'd ruined by tearing strips from it and held it out a bit sheepishly for the woman's inspection.
"Is there any way to repair this without undoing all of the seams?" she asked. "I know having to tear out all of the stitches takes time, so if that can't be done, I'd like to see about having a sling made of it and the rest made into bandages, if possible."
She peered at the stands and the assortment of materials in the store and added, tone curious, "Will you tell me your prices for garments and such? I should probably at least try to replace this soon if I can't get it repaired."
You know from your studies that Pharasma, the Lady of the Graves, views all souls that come before her with a cold and uncaring attitude and then decides where a soul will spend eternity.
As to what Marcus Chance believes in and whom will claim his soul upon death, you cannot truly determine. But the man is certainly not good.
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"Hello, Master Sensina," Rhialtyra greeted, "I am Rhialtyra Sunaki of Oppara. I'm looking to obtain a suit of leather armor for myself. Will you tell me a bit about these suits here and how much you're selling them for?" She gestured towards the simple leather, the studded leather, and the particularly nice looking studded leather armor.
"Good afternoon, Mistress Sunaki. A pleasure to meet you. Aye, if you come closer I will show you each piece and demonstrate their safeguard value."
He waits for the lady to move first and follows until they stand before the armour.
"The value of each rises with their benefit to the wearer. Let me explain." The leather worker gives a quick explanation of the benefits of each armour type.
"Since you are friends of the House of Orem, I am willing to give you a small discount on the more expensive of the leather armours - the studded leather you may have for 20 gold pieces and the +1 Studded leather for 1020 gold pieces."
He then stands quietly and waits for the lady's decision.
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"Is there any way to repair this without undoing all of the seams?" she asked. "I know having to tear out all of the stitches takes time, so if that can't be done, I'd like to see about having a sling made of it and the rest made into bandages, if possible."
Diplomacy: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (9) + 10 = 19
She peered at the stands and the assortment of materials in the store and added, tone curious, "Will you tell me your prices for garments and such? I should probably at least try to replace this soon if I can't get it repaired."
"Your high praise is very lovely to hear. My humble gratitude for your ardent patronage."
Dorcas Soorey takes the ruined dress and looks it over.
"My dear, the tear is only in the bottom of the dress and is easily remedied with an added piece to the hem and no need to touch the seams. However, these small stain marks appear to be burned cloth and cannot be washed out or repaired without it looking unusual. I would suggest you buy a new gown. Let me show you what we have and the cost of each..." Dorcas Soorey shows Rhialtyra her dresses and skirts and discusses any additional trims and alike. "Alternatively, tell me how much you'd like to spend, and I will take one of the ready-made dresses and alter them to suit your purse." The Half-Elven female smiles.
She stepped forward so Master Sensina could explain the value of the armor to her. As he spoke, she looked at the armor he described and took mental notes. She wished her father would've spent a bit more time with leather goods, but then, she supposed, he tended more towards things that would sell to anyone, whether it be odds and ends and fine jewelry or as common as a rope or torch.
"Since you are friends of the House of Orem, I am willing to give you a small discount on the more expensive of the leather armours - the studded leather you may have for 20 gold pieces and the +1 Studded leather for 1020 gold pieces."
She immediately removed the particularly fine piece of studded leather armor as an option, aware that it was well beyond her current funds. Ack, she'd never though to encounter monsters and centipedes and the like. At least with bandits, they didn't always kill the healers so they could make them tend to their wounded.
She considered the way the studded leather would get in her way as she moved about but shrugged. Considering she'd - somehow - survived the Witch's Tower with her current companions whilst feeling awkwardly stiff all the while, she assumed she'd be able to do it again.
"Might I take the studded leather?" she inquired quietly. "The fine one is beyond what I can afford just yet, but I will remember it should I acquire the funds."
She withdrew the necessary funds from her purse - twenty gold coins - and asked, "Do you have anyone that might be able to deliver it to the Wise Piper Inn later this evening?"
--
Rhialtyra sighed, disappointed. "Well, I can't say I was too hopeful," she said mournfully. Still, the colorful gowns before her and Mistress Soorey's own suggestion kept her spirits up.
She eyed the fabrics for a moment or two before nodding sharply and pointing at two that she particularly liked the colors of - one was a pale pink and the other a rich purple that she knew would bring out her eyes.
"Might I have those two dresses? I can pay one gold piece each." Rhialtyra asked. Considering where on the dress the stains had been, she thought to ask, "Might you have any good linen aprons?" If she ever got caught without the armor, at least she'd be able to snag the apron next time. It was better safe than sorry, or so she'd heard.
Riley is shocked when Connor offers the young girl a sword. He realizes that the man's culture must be far different from anything he had experienced. Sure there were woman pirates on the ship, but the were usually much different types of woman than Delfi and her sister.
He follows along and watches the others as they go to the leather worker and tailor shops. He smiles as Rhia purchases the studded leather armor. That plus a shield should protect her in the future should she adventure again.
"Might I take the studded leather?" she inquired quietly. "The fine one is beyond what I can afford just yet, but I will remember it should I acquire the funds."
She withdrew the necessary funds from her purse - twenty gold coins - and asked, "Do you have anyone that might be able to deliver it to the Wise Piper Inn later this evening?"
"A very good selection, Mistress Sunaki. I will have my runner bring it to the inn this eve."
Looking to the group, Theon Sensina, smiled and bid them thanks, "Thank you for your patronage. If you require other leather goods, please do visit us again. Good day to you."
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She eyed the fabrics for a moment or two before nodding sharply and pointing at two that she particularly liked the colors of - one was a pale pink and the other a rich purple that she knew would bring out her eyes.
"Might I have those two dresses? I can pay one gold piece each." Rhialtyra asked. Considering where on the dress the stains had been, she thought to ask, "Might you have any good linen aprons?" If she ever got caught without the armor, at least she'd be able to snag the apron next time. It was better safe than sorry, or so she'd heard.
Dorcas Soorey walked to a shelf and removed a folded linen apron in crisp white.
She drew her measuring tape and brought a sheathe of paper and pulled the charcoal from her hair. The tailor quickly set to measuring Rhia for any alterations to the two chosen ready-made dresses.
"I'll have the two chosen dresses altered to fit you like a glove, my dear. I will add some delicate trimmings and I will wrap them and your linen apron and have them delivered to the inn this evening."
She wrote down the details on the parchment and then added the instruction and amount.
"It was a pleasure to attend to you, this day. If you ever have need of new clothing, you are all welcome to return! Good day, my dears!"
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After leaving the tailor's shop, you all move along Tula's Walk and then turn onto Canteclure Road and you find the second Smithy with no trouble and in little time. The workshop is a little larger than Chance's and the structure has two sections: one side for living and one for trading.
There are five Half-orcs in the workshop. One looks up from the forge and rubbing his hands on a cloth sticking out from his smith's apron, he approaches with a gentle "toothy" smile.
"Good day, sirs and ladies. They call me "Big Bull" Baccus. How may I help you this fine day?"
The Half-Orc smithy stands just over six feet tall. He has grayish skin covered in dirt in places and pale blue eyes. Even though his tusks look dangerous as does his impressive build, you do not get the sense that he means to do harm.
On display, your group can see the following armour, weapon and shield.
You can see hide, rosewood and wooden armour. There are two shields on display: a masterwork light wooden quick draw shield (203gp) and a heavy darkwood shield (257gp). He has spears, shortspears, a composite shortbow, a masterwork composite longbow (+1) (500gp), a stonebow with a bag of bullets (10), a light crossbow with a bag of 10 bolts.
"Good day, Master Baccus. My name is Rhialtyra Sunaki and we are guests of Talia Orem. I have come to see that I am in need of a shortspear. Can you tell me how much one would cost, please?"
The tall Half-orc looked upon the delicate-looking, pretty woman and smiled at her request. "A shortspear would suit a fine lady of your stature, Mistress Rhialtyra. Here is one, you may hold it in your hand and test its feel and weight. It is just a gold piece."
Rhialtyra took hold of the weapon and attempted to look as though she knew how to hold or wield it. It did not feel overly heavy and the fighters in the party could show her how to use it well enough in case she had to defend herself in battle.
"I will take it, Master Baccus." The oracle removed a gold piece from her purse and handed it across to the smithy. She appreciated his demeanour much better than the last blacksmith's, Marcus Chance.
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Delfi turns to Rhialtyra, "Mistress Rhia, I will show Riley to the apothecary and then return to take you to the Shrine of the Seven Roses. I will be not be long."
Rhialtyra nods, amiable to the plan.
Turning to Riley, she says, "I'll take to you to Mistress Xemne for the other item you wanted to purchase. Her shop is not far from the inn." Bidding the others a short goodbye for she would return soon, Delfi took Riley's hand and showed him the way to Xemne's.
They arrive at a single-storey building with a large, fenced off garden. A pretty sign in front front announces Xemne's Tonics and they move inside the cool and fragrant interior. Delfi lets go of Riley's hand and rushes toward the counter where a female stands. Delif throws her arms about the woman and hugs her, "Xemne, we are here. This is Riley - he's a friend of mine and Talia's. He's looking for some fine perfume." The girl's face was bright with happiness as it was obvious the woman was a close friend of hers.
The apothecary held the girl affectionately and then looked back at the handsome Half-Elven male with a curious glint in her blue eyes.
A human woman of average height and feminine curves stands before you. She has olive skin, black wavy hair and pretty blue eyes. She appears to be in her early 30's.
"So, you're a friend of Talia and Delfi, eh? You are most welcome. I am Xemne of Demgazi. So fine perfumes, eh? Come let me show you my perfumes."
Delfi lets go of the apothecary, "I have to get back to take another to the shrine, but I will see you soon, Xemne."
To Riley, she adds, "I'll see you back at inn, Riley" and squeezes his hand before skipping out of the apothecary and running back up the road toward the smithy.
Xemne shows the Half-Elf to a counter where a number of vials stand, their liquid contents in various pretty shades.
"I create my own fragrances. You may be interested in these four in particular since Delfi said you were seeking fine perfumes? I will let you smell a sample of each and you can select your favourite."
Vial 1 with a pinkish-orange liquid: The scent reminds you of a flowering garden with its petals, warm earth and herbs. It possesses a bold, spicy and woody scent which softens into something more velvety and lush. It combines wild roses, apricot, honey blossom and sandalwood.
Vial 2 with blueish-purple liquid: The scent is fresh and peaceful in the same breath. It combines lavender, violets and rosemary.
Vial 3 with deep purple - reddish liquid: The liquid smells of the woods and of sweet home-baked pie. It combines blackcurrants, juniper berries and cinnamon.
Vial 4 with yellow-orange liquid: The liquid smells of an orchard. It combines lemons, oranges and pomegranate mingled with sage.
"How I combine the scents is my secret, and, I have yet to meet a woman or man who does not enjoy my fragrances upon the skin of a woman. These four perfumes I sell for 1 gold piece a vial. I promise you, you will not go wrong with any one of these. Would I know the intended recipient or are they new to town as well?" A friendly smile lit Xemne's mouth and face.
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Delfi runs back into the Half-orc's workshop and politely calls to Rhialtyra, "Mistress Rhia, I am ready to take you now. Let us go and then we may return to the inn afterward."
The walk is longer this time - up Canteclure Road and then left onto Belhaim Road - but uneventful. The temple is one of the larger structures in town and so beautifully framed by wild roses in different shades of red. The temple's interior/courtyard is spacious and beautiful in design, filled with paintings and pottery of various sizes in pretty frames. There is music, too, soft and peaceful, like bells on the wind flowing from somewhere above the Shrine in the back.
A handsome man in his mid 30's approaches, with long dark hair partially pulled back, dark brown eyes, with rich blue leggings covered by a tunic of rich blue and deep red and a cape of silver. He wears on a cord around his neck a symbol of a multicoloured songbird. He carries two red roses in one hand and stops before you, inclining his head and speaks in a melodic voice, "May love, music and beauty fill your days. Welcome to the Shrine of the Seven Roses. I am Father Nilos Genser", the latter was addressed to Rhialtyra. He hands each of you a red rose. "Delfi, it is good to see you, again, my child." It is evident that the Shelynite is familiar with Delfi. You recollect Talia saying her House followed Shelyn.
Delfi smiled at the priest and then smelled the fragrant rose.
Rhialtyra stepped forward and introduced herself. She relayed the information of her malady and how it had depleted her so. She inquired if the priest knew a spell to heal her condition.
"My lovely dear, worry no more, for Shelyn is bountiful and I possess a spell to heal you of this infirmity. I only ask that you leave some token by the Shrine in gratitude of Shelyn's bounty before you leave this day. It can be anything you deem worthy of The Eternal Rose. Now come," and with that he slowly draws the oracle toward the Shrine and lays his hand upon her arm and begins the incantation, which sounds like a hushed song, so sweet and melodious in his fine voice. After a time, a deep blue light moves between his hand, onto the oracle's skin and within, and she feels its spreading warmth like an air current, correcting her agility and inner balance. Nilos Genser casts the divine spell a second time to ensure the beautiful woman is restored in full.
The priest smiles at the beautiful woman before him. "The Eternal Rose is bountiful. Praise her name." He gallantly bows his head to you and then moves gracefully to a nearby group of acolytes.
"Praise The Eternal Rose. How do you feel, Mistress Rhia?" Once the oracle has answered, Delfi moves to one of the beautiful, painted clay bowls lined with rose petals by the Shrine and taking out one of the pretty ribbons Riley gifted her - the shiny blue satin one - and a coin from her purse - she wraps it around the silver coin and places the offering inside the bowl. She waits for Rhialtyra to make her own offering as "payment" for the healing rendered.
Delfi smiled at the warrior and shook her head. "I prefer smaller, simpler weapons, and I'm good with them..." She gave the warrior a reassuring smile, hoping his heart would not be injured by her refusal.
Connor's eyes widen at the statement and then he grins as he reclaims the blade.
"I shall remember that, Delfi of House Orem," he says with a nod.
"As for the size of the weapon? You speak with wisdom; for size matters little if the weapon finds it mark, eh?" he adds, then chuckles guessing that in that girl's hands even a Needle can be deadly...
"As for vengeance, I seek none. His words were a brute's bluster. I'll not become him; a dark and twisted creature."
Connor's laugh abates as his eyes widen, then he makes an embarrassed expression as he nods sympathetically at her remark.
"Of course," he says, understanding her completely.
"Vengeance like that could be dark indeed, and there is no cause for it."
"But I shall understand if you do not brood overmuch should this Twisted Creature stumble upon a dreadful accident," he says.
"Still, there is no sense fretting over what might be. For now I suppose we shall just have to wait and see what Fate has woven for him," he adds with a thoughtful expression under glittering eyes as he turns his gaze back to the Smith's residence in the distance.
Then he turns his gaze back to Delfi and gives her a wink.
"Good day, sirs and ladies. They call me "Big Bull" Baccus. How may I help you this fine day?"
Connor studies this smith move carefully then the others, having some experience with orcs in the past.
However, seeing that this Half-Orc doesn't appear to be overtly dangerous causes his suspicions to ebb somewhat and he tries to be courteous to the smith, but perhaps with not as much enthusiasm as he had before...
"Greetings, Master Baccus," he says to the Half-Orc with a polite voice.
He bends down and peers at the shields for a moment, studying the two that catch his eye.
"As for the size of the weapon? You speak with wisdom; for size matters little if the weapon finds it mark, eh?" he adds, then chuckles guessing that in that girl's hands even a Needle can be deadly...
Her words were low now as she spoke with the warrior, "Master Connor, I will continue to practice with my daggers when my chores are done as my execution could do with improving. I am no fighter, like you, but I would protect my person and those I love."
"Greetings, Master Baccus," he says to the Half-Orc with a polite voice.
He bends down and peers at the shields for a moment, studying the two that catch his eye.
Rhialtyra was impressed by the beauty of the roses and the structure of the temple. It was, she mused, very fitting for Shelyn. The gentle tinkle of bells and the scent soothed her and relaxed her in a way not too different from the luxurious bath she'd had that morning.
A handsome man in his mid 30's approaches, with long dark hair partially pulled back, dark brown eyes, with rich blue leggings covered by a tunic of rich blue and deep red and a cape of silver. He wears on a cord around his neck a symbol of a multicoloured songbird. He carries two red roses in one hand and stops before you, inclining his head and speaks in a melodic voice, "May love, music and beauty fill your days. Welcome to the Shrine of the Seven Roses. I am Father Nilos Genser", the latter was addressed to Rhialtyra. He hands each of you a red rose. "Delfi, it is good to see you, again, my child." It is evident that the Shelynite is familiar with Delfi. You recollect Talia saying her House followed Shelyn.
The aasimar accepted the rose with a smile before speaking to introduce herself and relay the information.
"My lovely dear, worry no more, for Shelyn is bountiful and I possess a spell to heal you of this infirmity. I only ask that you leave some token by the Shrine in gratitude of Shelyn's bounty before you leave this day. It can be anything you deem worthy of The Eternal Rose. Now come," and with that he slowly draws the oracle toward the Shrine and lays his hand upon her arm and begins the incantation, which sounds like a hushed song, so sweet and melodious in his fine voice. After a time, a deep blue light moves between his hand, onto the oracle's skin and within, and she feels its spreading warmth like an air current, correcting her agility and inner balance. Nilos Genser casts the divine spell a second time to ensure the beautiful woman is restored in full.
3 rounds of casting time per each spell.
Restoring the Dex damage: 1d4 ⇒ 3
Restoring the Dex damage: 1d4 ⇒ 3The priest smiles at the beautiful woman before him. "The Eternal Rose is bountiful. Praise her name." He gallantly bows his head to you and then moves gracefully to a nearby group of acolytes.
"Praise The Eternal Rose. How do you feel, Mistress Rhia?" Once the oracle has answered, Delfi moves to one of the beautiful, painted clay bowls lined with rose petals by the Shrine and taking out one of the pretty ribbons Riley gifted her - the shiny blue satin one - and a coin from her purse - she wraps it around the silver coin and places the offering inside the bowl. She waits for Rhialtyra to make her own offering as "payment" for the healing rendered.
Rhialtyra breathed deeply, feeling the stiffness of her body leaving, her body growing more relaxed and limber in its wake.
She closed her eyes, accepting the priest's gentle healing with a sigh of pleasure.
At last, he spoke and she managed to utter a quiet, "Thank you," as he moved on. The gods had been kind and she was just as blessed as he to have full use of her limbs so quickly again.
To young Delfi, Rhialtyra smiled. "I feel much, much better, Delfi," she said. "I thank you for bringing me here."
Delfi lay a ribbon in place and she made a mental note to obtain a replacement of some sort for it. She considered what she might have that was both beautiful and appropriate. She thought for a long moment before going into her belt purse and placing one of the moonstones she had claimed in the bowl. It was pretty and had the potential to be useful in some way.
She hoped that the goddess Shelyn thought it to be a fitting gift.
Shall we be off?" she suggested, pleased. Then, as they started on the path back, she asked, "Is the general store on our way back? There's something I forgot to purchase. If it's not, I can obtain it another time."
Delfi's eyes brightened as Rhialtyra placed a moonstone in the offering bowl. She believed Shelyn would approve of the pretty gemstone.
"We can return to Tymek's, but if we are to go the quickest route, it would take us past Chance Smithy. I suggest we cross the field behind the temple and tavern to get back onto Tula's Way. Come," and holding onto Rhialtyra's hand, the females move out of sight of Marcus Chance and his five thugs.
By the front door of Tymek's, Delfi remarked, "I'll wait out here for you, Mistress Rhia."
This time it was Katarin Tymek who greets Rhialtyra as she enters the store. "You have returned. Is there something else I can help you with, mistress?"
Rhialtyra enquired after a blue satin ribbon like the one Delfi had bought earlier and some sweets for the girl. Katarin smiled and moved to the rack with the pretty ribbons and looking through found a perfect match. By the side of the front counter, neatly in a row, stood small jars filled with hard-boiled candy in fruity flavours. "The ribbon and sweets are a silver piece each. That will be two silver pieces, please, mistress."
As the oracle handed over a gold coin, the shopkeep's wife noted the purchase in the ledger and returned 8 silver pieces to Rhialtyra. "Please come again" and she smiled and waved as the pretty woman left the store.
"Master Connor, I will continue to practice with my daggers when my chores are done as my execution could do with improving. I am no fighter, like you, but I would protect my person and those I love."
Connor nods his head at her response.
"In this we are of one mind," he says to her.
"While it is true that fighting can be seen like a sport to some, and that some men love to fight merely to test their skill and strength - others still will fight to help them release what trials plague their inner mind - yet my uncle has always said that the first duty of anyone learning to fight is to learn to defend another."
He gives her a dry smile as if the process of recalling his uncle's wisdom evoked mixed emotions, yet whatever his own private thoughts are do not dissuade him from continuing.
"My uncle told me that a warrior must learn to defend first; else he shall be killed sooner and be no good to anyone."
"He also told me that men who fight for sport or anger are men who do not put their mind to victory. Those who fight for sport will overlook a victory that seems "unfair" and those who fight for emotion will overlook an opportunity because their minds are bent and they cannot think well when fighting."
"Further, it is the duty of the tribe to protect itself, else the tribe shall fall - and that is unforgivable," he adds with a serious voice, as if this is something he truly agrees with.
"With my people women and men both learned to be effective killers, for that is best."
"When the men went to hunt or raid then the women would be left protecting the village - for it was sensible that women who were nursing young or women who bled during their time of the moon would not be the best to help on the trail; yet, to be fair, women who were not held to these issues did come with the men to hunt and raid if they could."
"In any case, with my people it was said that a mother who did not try to defend her young from an enemy was not a good mother and thus did our women learn to fight - indeed, even our children would fight - for what goodly son or daughter would refuse to help defend his home or kin if his mother or father were cut down before him?" he asks somewhat rhetorically.
"Even so, both men, women and children learned to fight along side their companions as any of our tribes would."
"For these strategies it was true that some men - being larger and stronger than others - some of those would use a heavy axe or longsword and cleave the shields of their enemies before they struck."
"Other folk were sometimes leaner or more nimble and they would take for themselves the dagger and slide behind enemies - either to distract an enemy from their allies with heavy weapons, or at least to find a vital spot that even a dagger could do much damage to."
He looks at her thoughtfully.
"In you a see a girl who I think shall become a wise women, for you are already clever," he says the last word somewhat strangely.
Of course, that was not unusual, for with Connor it was cleat the word "Clever" seemed to have a far greater range of subtlety than the usual meaning of the word to most civilized people.
"Now, there is no harm in learning the dagger, but I am not learned in the style of this weapon. Perhaps our friend Riley knows more of how to handle the blade better?"
He turns to gesture to Riley and then pauses, as if a sudden thought has entered his mind and his eyes linger - studying her carefully.
"Of course..." he says slowly as he looks at her "weapons of iron and steel are said to be no match for the power of the gods - and they often avail little against sorcery..." he adds, his mind suddenly wondering again at her background - and her bloodline.
"Perhaps you may have other gifts unguessed beyond the weapons we are skilled in - and if not, perhaps you may learn of them?" he says as he rubs his chin thoughtfully.
"In which case, if you feel you have the Gift," he adds, an odd emphasis on the word "gift" "then I would advise speaking to either of the women in my company, for I deem that they may be better at teaching you to harness those powers then I am."
He continues then to walk with the company to the next shop.
Rhialtyra offered Delfi the candy as soon as they were on the path back to the Wise Piper Inn. "Thank you for the tour today," she smiled at the child. "I feel much better than I did earlier and I think I'll be better prepared for the next bit of adventure we go out on." She chuckled at the thought of the next centipede trying to bite into her. "You've done me a great service! I know this is but a little, but I thought it might be a good start."
As they got closer to the Inn, Rhialtyra paused before passing the ribbon over to Delfi. It had occurred to her to give it to Riley, to help him earn more favor with the child, but she wanted to see Delfi smile. Plus, she didn't know how the male would feel about his gift becoming an offering to Shelyn. She didn't think he'd feel bad about it or anything, but it could still be a bit offputting.
"Here," she said as she offered it to Delfi. "To replace the ribbon you offered the goddess." She knew it wouldn't be expected, per se, but she thought it would be a nice gesture, if nothing else.
Besides, in this way, Riley needn't ever learn and there wouldn't be any secrets or cause to ask.
Rhialtyra's thoughts turned on herself and she couldn't help but be amused. Honestly, what was she doing, playing at secrets. Who cared what happened so long as everyone was happy? She shook her head at her own folly and smiled at Delfi. "Let's go show your sister all of the ribbons you got today - I bet that'll make her smile, don't you think?"
45 gp for mw backpack, 20 gp for studded leather, Two dresses and linen apron for 2 gp and 2 sp, Bandages + sling for free, Shortspear for 1 gp, Used 1 gp, received 8 gp back for ribbon + candy
"Them shields are special and I can see they've caught your eye. I can put them aside for you until the morrow, if you care to think on them this night. Send word to me with your coin when you've made your mind up and I will have the preferred shield delivered to the Wise Piper. Do we have an accord?"
Connor does not answer at once, his attention clearly focused on the fine craftsmanship before him.
He shakes his head and looks up at Baccus as if just realizing the Half-Orc had addressed him.
"I thank you for that courtesy, Master Baccus," he says to the Half-Orc, yet his voice is clearly respectful and polite,e especially after being impressed with the work he has just seen before him.
"You are right; I am undecided as to which shield I should prefer, yet it is true that they are both of fine make and goodly quality. But I suspect that in the morning my head shall be clearer and I may give you a better answer."
"So, indeed, we do have an accord," he says with a nod.
He leans back and looks at the various wares and recalls that in larger cities many folk who practiced the same trade would share those secrets with no one, except other craftsmen who they could trust.
Some would form guilds and with the establishment of those organizations would ensure that others beyond a particular guild would not try to undercut the market by sharing secrets with customers at a lower price.
Indeed, with his own people the secret to bending iron into steel was a clandestine secret in the lands of his forefathers; for a man who knew that skill would be counted as especially valuable to the tribe and would enjoy high honor offered to few.
It was only when his people started to migrate south into more civilized land that the prestige that a metalworker enjoyed slowly waned as steel was far easier to come by.
Connor doubted highly that any of those considerations of guilds from a metropolis such as Saraville would matter much to the folk in this town - nor did he think that men this far south who knew the trick to bend iron into steel would be seen with the respect often afforded to someone like a shaman or priest.
However, it did occur to him that it was logical that the only two Smiths in the town, especially in a town as small as this, would surely know of each other.
Leaning back he studies Baccus thoughtfully.
"My company and I are new to your town, as you may have guessed, yet we are a curious bunch and hunger for knowledge," he says with a small shrug of his shoulders.
"Tell me, Master Baccus, if you do not mind overmuch, why does the Smith named Marcus Chance have such an ugly reputation in your community?"
Connor is eager to direct the question better - wishing to know why someone like Marcus is so rude to potential customers. Or even more; why the townsfolk have not protested his threats or expelled him from their community?
Was this Marcus simply a bully, or did he act rudely because he was perhaps protected by powerful friends? And why should Marcus's business thrive while being so close to Baccus if the man abused his customers so? Why should a town this small have two different Smiths? Was this a mere coincidence, or something else entirely?
However, he keeps his questions to himself, realizing it is better not to "lead" someone regarding the nature of answers. Instead, Connor hopes that by saying little that Baccus will give free vent to his personal thoughts and - possibly - share information that Connor did not think to ask.
Naturally he intends to ask Delfi follow-up questions, but for now he is curious to know what an adult who is less likely to be bullied and possibly afraid or angry - and so have a less emotional answer - might have to say about this Marcus Chance.
For now he leans back and simply waits to hear what Baccus will say before asking follow-up questions.
The warrior had spoken of killing, but that was not her way - not the way of the House she belonged to and not the way of the goddess she worshipped.
"Your womenfolk sound fierce, Master Connor. And to be honoured for their part in protecting their community. Wise women are to be revered and honoured, too, even if they do not learn to fight or are trained killers. I'll ask Riley to show me some tricks with daggers. I may not make use of them, but at least I will have them to fall back on, if all else has failed." The girl smiled warmly at the warrior, her hazel eyes holding his pale ones for a moment for skipping ahead.
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"Thank you for the sweets." Delfi took one of the hard-boiled candies - a yellow one - and popped it into her mouth - enjoying its lemony taste. She extended her arm toward Rhialtyra and offered her a sweet.
"Here," she said as she offered it to Delfi. "To replace the ribbon you offered the goddess." She knew it wouldn't be expected, per se, but she thought it would be a nice gesture, if nothing else.
"You didn't have to do that, Mistress Rhia, but thank you all the same. The offering was a just one and there is no misdeed or sadness. I would've explained it to Riley since the ribbon was now mine to do as I wished. And what could be better than laying it as gift for such divine service? You are all well now, thanks to the will of the goddess and that is happy news."
She shook her head at her own folly and smiled at Delfi. "Let's go show your sister all of the ribbons you got today - I bet that'll make her smile, don't you think?"
"Aye. She likes pretty ribbons, too," and with that the girl opened the door of the Wise Piper and ran inside, calling her sister's name.
Leaning back he studies Baccus thoughtfully.
"My company and I are new to your town, as you may have guessed, yet we are a curious bunch and hunger for knowledge," he says with a small shrug of his shoulders.
"Tell me, Master Baccus, if you do not mind overmuch, why does the Smith named Marcus Chance have such an ugly reputation in your community?"
Diplomacy check to Gather Information(+2 modifier to that roll factored in) -
1d20 + 4 + 2 ⇒ (15) + 4 + 2 = 21
Not one to enjoy talking about others, especially to strangers, the smith did his best to answer the question without slandering a fellow townsmen.
"Ugly reputation in the community? I'm certain not all the locals feel as you do, Master Connor. A man only knows what he is accustomed to. The Chances are a fierce family with strong minds, fists and dispositions. They are also gifted smiths and have lived in these parts for generations. They belong to no faction in town for they do not believe in obedience to the gods. Best keep your distance from any of the Chances or at least your judgement from reaching their ears."
Giving a polite nod, the blacksmith takes the two shields from their place and moves them to behind the curtain of the backroom. "The shields will stay there until you make your choice on the morrow, Master Connor. Until then, good day to you and your people." The Half-orc gave a small "toothy" smile and retreated into his workshop and toward the other Half-orcs in his employ.
"So, you're a friend of Talia and Delfi, eh? You are most welcome. I am Xemne of Demgazi. So fine perfumes, eh? Come let me show you my perfumes."
Riley smiles and nods to the lady. "Good afternoon, Xemne. As this lovely young lady just said...I am Riley. I arrived in town with the caravan."
"I have to get back to take another to the shrine, but I will see you soon, Xemne."
To Riley, she adds, "I'll see you back at inn, Riley" and squeezes his hand before skipping out of the apothecary and running back up the road toward the smithy.
As Delfi squeezes his hand, Riley reaches over with his other hand and tousles her hair a bit. "See you at the Inn, sweet." He watches with a broad smile on his face as she skips away. He turns to the proprietor after the young girl leaves, "She is a piece of work. Isn't she?"
"I create my own fragrances. You may be interested in these four in particular since Delfi said you were seeking fine perfumes? I will let you smell a sample of each and you can select your favourite."
Vial 1 with a pinkish-orange liquid: The scent reminds you of a flowering garden with its petals, warm earth and herbs. It possesses a bold, spicy and woody scent which softens into something more velvety and lush. It combines wild roses, apricot, honey blossom and sandalwood.
Vial 2 with blueish-purple liquid: The scent is fresh and peaceful in the same breath. It combines lavender, violets and rosemary.
Vial 3 with deep purple - reddish liquid: The liquid smells of the woods and of sweet home-baked pie. It combines blackcurrants, juniper berries and cinnamon.
Vial 4 with yellow-orange liquid: The liquid smells of an orchard. It combines lemons, oranges and pomegranate mingled with sage.
"How I combine the scents is my secret, and, I have yet to meet a woman or man who does not enjoy my fragrances upon the skin of a woman. These four perfumes I sell for 1 gold piece a vial. I promise you, you will not go wrong with any one of these. Would I know the intended recipient or are they new to town as well?" A friendly smile lit Xemne's mouth and face.
Riley steps up and starts smelling the four vials the lady presents. He starts with the first. "Wow." is all he can say. He smells the second. "Oh...I like this." Then the third. "I think this lovely one just made my stomach rumble. It smells like pie!" Lastly, he smells the fourth. "Nice! These are amazing. The best I have ever smelled."
"Well..."He blushes a bit at the lady's question. Umm...I was thinking about buying something for Talia. I mean...she has been so hospitable and all..." He clears his throat and changes the subject. "Is there one you think she may like? The second one reminds me of her the most..."
As Delfi squeezes his hand, Riley reaches over with his other hand and tousles her hair a bit. "See you at the Inn, sweet." He watches as she leaves with a broad smile on his face. He turns to the proprietor after the young girl leaves, "She is a piece of work. Isn't she?"
Xemne smiled at the interplay between the Half-Elf and Delfi. At his question, she responded, "From the moment she arrived, Delfi has been a gift from Shelyn herself. The child embraces all in this life and makes the best of it."
The apothecary watches as the man opens the samples and smells the fragrant contents one at a time, sharing his immediate opinion. Upon his disclosure the perfume was meant as gift for friend, Talia, the apothecary was at first bemused and then curious but held off remarking on the intended recipient. Instead she considered his question as to the best choice for Talia.
"Either the one with the wild roses or the one with the lavender. With either of the two, you cannot go wrong, Master Riley. If your heart tells you that the lavender, violets and rosemary is more Talia than you should heed your own feelings on the matter." The woman smiled, again, amused by the man's reluctance to speak his true intent regarding the gift. How she wished she could be there when he presented Talia with the perfume. She wondered how Talia felt about Riley...Maybe I should pay my friend a visit, soon.
Entering the inn you immediately note that the dining hall is set up for the evening meal ahead - fresh linens, flowers and candles are set in place and a low fire burning in the hearth. You can smell something deliciously fragrant wafting from beyond the kitchen.
Talia is standing by the bar, talking with Jax and Jorje. It appears she has recently bathed and changed her clothing. Her hair is slightly damp still but braided to the side in a long, thick plait. She has a white shirt, ruffled a little at the neck and sleeves and a long cornflower blue skirt cinched in with a brown belt and matching brown boots on her feet. She wears some fine jewellery - delicate silver and small sapphire earrings and a matching ring on the ring finger of her right hand.
As soon as she sees Delfi rushing in, Talia opens her arms and embraces her sister, listening to the girl speak of the tour around town and the pretty ribbons Riley gave her and the sweets bought for her by Rhialtyra.
Looking up at her adventurer guests she smiled, "I hope your walk about town was fruitful?" And then turning to Riley and Rhia, "Thank you for your gifts for Delfi", her eyes lingering just a little longer on Riley, before turning back to the group as a whole.
"Will you be supping early before you go to see Lady Origena? I can have your meals out in an hour, if it is your will."