The taller guard turns to the man, replying "Oh? Well, then you wouldn't mind us searching your vessel then." Tossing a rope out to the boat, he advises "Either hold on, or tie this off. We'll pull you in and take a looks see. Where you all headed? Irrisen?"
The shorter, stockier guard grabs hold of the trailing end and readies to pull you to shore.
Meanwhile, Haltani remains silent, huddled up in the bow of the vessel.
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Taking a look at the netting in the middle of the river, the hidden guards, and their zealousness in pulling the vessel to shore, Syndra is not convinced of the plan.
[b]"Under whose authority do you commandeer peaceful vessels and spring them in your traps. It sounds more to me that you are most likely pirates than any officials of a territory.
As Haltani opens her mouth to answer John, the guard replies. "We are the border guards of Whiterook and under the authority there-in we control this region. It's our duty to ensure our enemy to the East isn't ramping up for war." Pausing to consider Faliana's words, he adds "If that's the case M'lady, you have nothing to fear from us."
The Varki woman simply nods, adding in a hushed whisper "They've watched this waterway for decades. The witches of Irrisen have been known to raid their villages and worse. As I said, the don't normally stop ships traveling in..."
The guards don't seem interested in initiating violence, but are quite wary of outsiders.
The border guards tend to only stop outgoing vessels, though they do on occasion stop incoming ones when bored. They do control this section of the river.
The closest settlement is Whiterook, with Dalunn just up the river
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"As you can see, there are seven of us, and two of you. I sense that you are not really interested in meeting your deaths today. Perhaps you should tell us what it is you fear? We are Pathfinders on a mission of great importance. Perhaps you simply have need of us negotiating a peaceful resolution to some conflict in the region? Or Perhaps I have read the situation wrong and you do wish to meet your death today." Syndra comments snidely.
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Khardum gradually recovers from his greenness. "Gads. The elf woman is about as sociable as a boar with indigestion."
He holds his hands away from his weapons. "We've really not got anything significant, as far as I know. Maybe you're worried we're bringing someone or ones in that you don't want? We're not, so you're welcome to check."
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Giving a small grimace as Syndra says 'pathfinders' and ‘mission’ John sighs and then pipes up angrily, "that’s right, we are on an important trade mission that should be incredibly profitable for your great nation. Pull us in, look at our letter of trade, cut us free and we shall be on our way. I think the last thing needed at this point is a diplomatic incident.” The last bit was said with force as John moves to the front of the boat, grabs the rope and ties it off. He steadies himself for the drag to the shore and prepares to disembark, letter in hand. He whispers to Khardum, ”ya got my back if this goes south?”
"Pathfinders?! Ha! We'd be doing you a favor, keeping you from Irrisen." he replies to the elf as his stocky companions pulls the boat in. Turning to the previously amiable man, he stammers "I...we...we have orders. I don't mean to keep you..."
As the boat reaches shore, he quickly glances over the small vessel, without stepping foot on the deck. Taking the offered letter, he skims the contents and hands it back. "All looks in order, sir."
Considering his position silently a moment, he looks to his companion. "It seems all is in order. I say we let these merchants be on their way."
Shaking his head, the stocky man speaks up. "We should take them back to the battle master at least. That black fire clay could be used against us."
Glancing back towards the human, the first guard presses. "No. They have been...uh...straight forward and there's obviously no paraphernalia in this tiny vessel." Tugging the rope loose, he gives your boat a shove. "Off with you. Don't come back."
As you drift around the next bend, Haltani breathes a sigh of relief. "John, that was amazing!"
But a few moments farther along the river, suddenly the temperature drops dramatically. Ice chunks float along in the river nearby, though the current keeps it from freezing over entirely. Looking to the southern bank, you see a lone winter wolf walking along the edge, tracking you. Unable to easily reach your meat, it seems to tire and move on.
Stone cliffs mark the border of Irrisen on the northern bank. Chill winds send flurries of snow over the edge, landing in the river and on the grassy bank of the southern shore where maple trees fight the icy doom of Irrisen’s endless winter. A long, narrow cart path winds its way up the side of the cliff from the docks to Dalun’s iron gates.
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"Unless the border guards can see inside our heads, then I think we were safe with them searching our vessel," he corrects Rerois. "We're supposed to make friends along our way, not shoot or stab anyone who's just doing their lawfully appointed tasks that happens to inconvenience us. Torag's sore thumb! We're doing a slipshod job of that."
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Faliana gives Rerois a stern look. "Rerois, I think they were the customs agents to the border of Irrisen and the White Rook. The unannounced stopping was unusual, but being able to have warning your town is under attack before the attacking group is at your town's borders isn't too much to ask."
Turning to John, her face flickers for a moment before Sasha's voice squeaks out. "Thank-you! Thank-you! I think you might have saved their lives back there! But was it really necessary to lie to... His voice cuts off abruptly and then Faliana continues, "Yes, it was. But allow me to thank-you as well. You probably also saved the Pathfinder reputation in this area."
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"We do have someone with us that could provide more details about what just happened, White Rook, and what we might encounter further down the river." Syndra says turning to Haltani.
"I assume that avoiding more of a confrontation with the guards was your preference? Syndra says exiting the baton the docks. "Anything you'd like to add before we attempt to enter Dalun?"
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With an understanding smile John replies, "haste is not always a detriment, no offense taken. We are just fortunate the guards saw merit in not pushing the issue." He gives a nod of understanding to Faliana, "bloodshed is rarely worth the cost, for many reasons."
He turns and watches their approach to Irrisen intently. "I doubt the same bluster will do much for us here, as Rerois pointed out succinctly there are likely enemies everywhere. I think we should tread carefully and move quickly through town."
He turns and walks over to Haltani as the boat pulls up to the docks. "Thank you for expertly guiding us up the river. Our next task is to get through town. What would be the easiest way to complete such a goal?"
Quietly listening to the discussions as they approach, she takes a moment to consider their questions of expectation. "Well, once we make our way to the city gate, we'll meet a few guards. They'll likely ask of our intentions...who we are..."
Turning to Syndra, she adds "There's a good chance they'll want to search us. It's standard. They won't be hiding though. John, I wouldn't suggest getting as gruff with these guards as the others."
"Once inside, we'll have to take the letter to one of the Jadwiga to gain our permissions. Please remember, those that live here are use to rough customers and they don't like pathfinder."
As you follow the winding path up the cliff face, the bitter winds press in around you. Ultimately coming around a blind bend in the path, the gates to Dalun tower before you. Two cityguards stand out front with crossbows in hand, pointed down. In front of each are small, heavily armored ice bears. Their red eyes, blanch white fur and sharp claws make them formidable companions in the region.
"You there! What business have you in Irissen?" Hollers out one.
"Hey, that's not polite. Welcome! Who might you be?" states the other.
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Syndra presents herself with a bow of reverence. "Greetings to the humble warriors of the the Dalun. May the gods shine on you." she says in a grand gesture. "We present ourselves humbly to enter your gates, and come in reverence to your people. Might you however find the kindness to make haste as we are not from this lands, and the chill bites through us quite deeply, and the ability to warm ourselves would be much appreciated." she continues.
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John moves up next to Rerois and smiles at the guards, "a good day to you both! I am John and these are my companions. We are investigating a profitable opportunity. My companions are here to assist with this venture. We do have a letter of trade if you wish to see it." He slowly reaches into his pocket, showing the corner of the letter.
As you make your introductions, Haltani moves up to get a better view of the situation, though she remains silent.
The first guard eyes you wearily "Merchants you say? Seem a bit....prepared for a simple merchant collective." He replies motioning to the weapons you carry. Turning to John, he smiles "Now, I can readily believe you may be seeking profit. We need not see your letter, that would be for the Jadwiga's approval."
The second guard steps forward, smiling at the dwarf and Faliana. "Seems you are an amiable couple. Lets take a look at what you carry and we'll let you on your way. Any contraband you wish to divulge before we find it? Twould be best to dispose of it now before we find it ourselves."
Both guards turn to their snarling pets and mumble a few words in Irrisen before approaching the group. Starting wtih Khardum and Reyrois, they quickly pat each of you down, taking a cursory glance into your packs. The bears maintain their position, watching each of you intently.
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Faliana gladly opens her bag and accepts the patting down nattering away the entire time, "Oh feel free to search, I don't have anything to hide... In my bag over here I have lots of food and your basic adventuring supplies... In this small pouch I have a few candles and some chalk I use for religious purposes. I also have a small bag of knickknacks here, I just love collecting small parts of broken things!... Now, I do have a lot of weapons, but I can't use them myself. I was mostly hired on to carry things, this was before the group found the Chelish fellow and his horse, mind you, but at that point I'd already inked and sealed a contract and I don't ask for much anyways, just a few gold and meals.... Actually, if you know anybody who is looking to hire someone to carry things, I'd be glad to come back when I finish this contract! I may not look it but I'm quite strong." with this last claim she thumps her chest and the dull ring of covered metal sounds out.
Looking over the rest of the party, the guard replies to Rerois, "Now, that seems likely."
The second guard eyes Falina critically, "You sure talk a lot. That much I could attest to. Aye, dwarf. We do have a few critters out in these lands. Not all are friendly."
A few more moments and the two return to their post. "Alright, you lot can go on in. Safe travels."
Entering the city you find, the grey stone buildings of Dalun stand huddled together, as if the stonework was attempting to withstand the cold. Snowy cobblestone streets lead to a tall white spire in the center of town, its sharp point piercing the blue sky; an icy sheen covers the surface, glistening in the muted sunlight. Colorfully dressed merchants stand out against the blue, grey and white clothing worn by the citizens of Irrisen, who trot through the white cobblestone streets with immediacy. The occasional ice troll lumbers along, giving non-Jadwiga humans a disdainful snarl.
"Before we can arrange to travel farther in, we must gain the Jadwiga's permission to trade. This is when that letter would become useful. Alexei Kartov, Iskar Alexstrava...or Nishka Keldova would be my recommendations. All have shops in the market place." Haltani informs you. "If there were any last minute supplies you wanted, you could attempt to purchase them as well, though if you don't make a good impression...the prices can vary."
Waiting with you in the open square, she leaves the choice up to you.
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Syndra has no need of buying additional supplies. "Those of you ill prepared for the chill that is sure to come, might want to consider a cold weather outfit. Otherwise use the credits that we have to find favorable trade in goods less common in the souther provinces. Make haste as we should continue on. We also need to convince whoever is in charge of passage to let us continue on our journey. Someone perhaps a little more skilled in the art of words than myself."
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John stands for a brief moment, eyes lingering on the glistening spire, then speaks, "I think any of those would do well unless our 'diverse' group would be disliked by one more than others. If that is not the case we shall check with Alexie Kartov first. I am more than willing to attempt this negotiation if no one objects."
John lowers his voice when it appears no one is in earshot. "If none disagree I will also build on the story we have going already. Rerois and Khardum as the muscle, Syndra as the money behind this venture, Faliana as our spirit whisperer who tipped us off to an opportunity here and of course Haltani as our local guide."
When they start heading towards the chosen Jadwiga, he asks Haltani for specific details about their mark, including any honorifics, vices, points of pride or anything else they might be able to use as leverage.
Considering the inquiry a moment, she whispers back. "Interesting choice. She deals primarily in special gems..." The woman involuntarily strokes the jewel hanging from her neck before continuing, "Anyone that can appreciate precious stones will have a leg up with her. Remember she is a Jadwiga, so you'll want to be extra polite. Here she is better than you and she knows it."
Pausing as a massive troll lumbers by to glare at your group, the woman turns and holds her pinky high in it's direction. The creature returns the gesture as it continues on.
Turning back to John, the woman blushes. "Apologies, that was a bit rude...as for the merchant, I don't know what else could be helpful. Though her bloodline is of the ruling class, she is certainly a merchant at heart."
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Faliana just smiles at the guards and continues chatting at them until she has to rush after her friends.
While in the city, Sansa quickly takes over and starts taking everything in with wide eyes and barely suppressed excitement. He gives an occasion inaudible coo over the architecture and the buildings. After a few minutes of this, Faliana takes back over and starts watching the clothes the merchants are wearing form the corner of her eyes.
"With the skis and extra rations form the Captain's boat I don't need anything else. Some good but cheap candles are always good to find, but I have enough for now."
"I have no particular care for the order we go in, all three names hold no meaning for me. Also, I would gladly let you take the forefront with the talking, John." Faliana comments After John's announcement. She then continues in a lower voice, "The cover story also sounds good to me."
"As long as she is willing to deal with us fairly, I have no problems with her status. Although, I do have to admit I don't have the eye for precious stones."
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John smiles as Haltani turns back, "oh, no apologies necessary. If it helps us avoid trouble I'm more than happy to let you step in to handle cultural activities. What exactly did that hand signal mean?" He pauses for the answer and then asks another question, "gems don't mean much to me other than how much they are worth. Do the other two Jadwiga have any preference in what they deal?"
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He gives Syndra a doubtful, sidelong glance at her imperious tone. "I think we're getting quite experienced dealing with Jadwiga attitudes."
"I'm more an ore man, myself, than a fancier of crystals, but they all come from under the ground," Khardum tells John, "Though if one's a smith, I'd probably have more to chat about."
"Oh, John it was a rude symbol. I wouldn't recommend worrying about it much. Nishka deals in furs and the last deals in cleats, skiis, and snowshoes." Replies the woman.
Without another word, she leads you to the market place and points to a sign that reads, The Finer Things.
Inside rows and rows of different gems line the ways inside locked shelves. A woman wearing a monocle sits behind a desk, studying a blue gem. Barely glancing up she inquires "May I help you?"
-Posted with Wayfinder
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John walks in confidently, ”good day, we are looking to speak with Alexei Kartov. We are looking to expand our markets and hoping to tour your great country seeking beneficial trade deals for all involved. ” He emphasizes the word ‘all’ as he smiles at the lady. ”We do have an official letter of trade as well.”
As John speaks, the woman's ears perk up. Setting down the stone she'd been inspecting, she walks around the desk to the man. Grabbing the offered parchment, she begins examining it as Faliana adds her thoughts.
"Well, looks to be in order. Have you tried to get approval with any of the other noble blood?" she inquires. "What goods do you peddle? If it be precious stones, I may be inclined to crush your spirits in the market."
Offering her right hand to John, palm down, a large signet ring stands upon her finger. "I am Ms Kartov"
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John takes the proffered hand gently, bowing at the waist and brushing his lips upon the ring. ”Ms Kartov, it is excellent to meet you. I am John Carlos and my advisor here is Faliana Galina. You are the first of noble blood that we have had the great opportunity to meet in this fine nation.” He waves back at the others in the group and points out Syndra, ”these are the rest of my compatriots, most notably Syndra Gwavirin who is helping fund our endeavor.”
The greetings finished, he continues, ”as to the goods, we do not currently deal in gemstones. Though if you were interested in expanding your market to the south I would certainly be at your service. We have useful alchemical items and are seeking permission to look for trading partners inland that have unique items not found in our markets back home.