He turns to the fiendish woman. "Akate. I am sorry for your troubles. Perhaps... perhaps there is a way I might help you... Akate, the gods often bless with magic those they saddle with curses. Some cosmic sense of humor, I suppose. By any chance, are you able to heal injuries?"
**sniff, sniff** "Oh yes, I have to do it all the time. Why just last week when I was moving this carriage from the livery stable and there was this terrible accident--. And this was the last place too. I've worked on farms in the fields, and as a laborer putting up building and churches, I've worked for alchemists, stonemasons, and potters, and as servers in Cayden knows how many taverns. Now I'll have to move on again. Though, I hadn't ever thought of healing folks before I hurt them.... Do you think it could work?"
Zokon sees that the situation is well in hand but does not approach as well, he doesn't want something to fall on him.
Zokon notes the town stable leaning precariously toward its missing side.
"I do think it could work, Akate. If you just worked as a healer, and avoided handling fragile objects, that could earn you a tidy living and the appreciation of the community. I have long required compensation for my healing in these lands, as is the way of Abadar, although I have accepted coin, trade, or community service. Since you are not a servant of Abadar, you are not bound by our rates. You could ask for somewhat less than I do and thereby earn the goodwill of the people."
"The problem there would probably be the lack of potential customers in such a small hamlet. If you provided healing for free as compensation for your clumsiness before, then now only wait until someone gets hurt to charge them for your help, people will not bear much goodwill regardless of the rate."
Alia ponders the situation for a bit, then adds:"That said, even your unique...talent would probably have a market. Someone who lost the key to their home, a lockbox with the lock rusted shut...I feel there are many applications to your skills. If you wish, make your way to the Trading Post formerly owned by Olegs. We will return there within a few weeks, and I guarantee you employment henceforth and perpetually."
"Well, no, one would charge for healing right from the beginning and then use that coin to pay compensation for past damages... coin all the way through... but I do see Alia's other point. If there were less than one serious injury a month in a hamlet this small, it would be hard to make a living."
"The Trading Post might be a better destination. As to other ways for you to earn coin, I have grave doubts about trying to trick the Fates. A broken lock does not mean an open door. I also guarantee you employment, as a healer."
"Man, you guys are smart." Scarlet offers the dress while amassing buttons. "Let's just say we might have a place for you. Everyone needs their wounds mended. Back in the Company healers were always the favorite."
Victoria is amazed at this woman's ability to destroy the world around her. Quite the curse, indeed. She wishes she had some way to aid her, but it seems the others have it well in hand. And, truth be told, she was a bit afraid that her presence might have some negative effects on items she carried so doesn't plan on getting too close.
"Umm the stable looks as if it's about to collapse, I'll check if there are animals inside." Zokon runs to the stable to take a look inside
"That is what I suggested. To have her in government employ. If you are interested in that, Akate. Healing alone, as a private provider, may not be sufficient to keep you afloat."
"That said: the broken lock may not mean an open door, but it can. its function is to keep a door shut, if it is broken, there is a good chance its function is impeded. Since you don't permanently break things, there's no reason not to see and try to make the best use of your unique talent!"
Disable Device becomes a class skill for you and you can make Disable Device checks to destroy non-magical traps as a move action without the need to use tools or take any action beyond simply touching it.
At 5th level, whenever you attempt to damage an object with a melee attack, reduce its hardness by an amount equal to your oracle level before determining the damage you deal with that attack.
At 10th level, any attacks you make against objects and constructs automatically bypass any damage reduction they may possess except epic.
"Akate, if and when you get to the Trading Post, let me know what Alia offers you and give me the opportunity to beat that offer."
Durgan walks away.
Serena merely smirks and holds the bridge of her nose. Was Durgan really trying to convince her to take up clericalism or is he using that to disguise his attempt at evangelism for Abadar?
After a night in town the Party and Magister head onward to Restov--Largest City in the North* (or at least that's what the Brevans call it). From without it is an impressive stonewalled city sitting on the banks of the Shrike River surrounded by tiny farm hamlets and rolling hills of grain. The gate guard though look a bit thuggish--not that you have to worry about them with the Magister's carriage leading the way.
After a night in town the Party and Magister head onward to Restov--Largest City in the North* (or at least that's what the Brevans call it). From without it is an impressive stonewalled city sitting on the banks of the Shrike River surrounded by tiny farm hamlets and rolling hills of grain. The gate guard though look a bit thuggish--not that you have to worry about them with the Magister's carriage leading the way.
Durgan spares a glance for the thuggish gate guards.
Better than nothing, I guess. They are technically being the eyes and ears of this city...
Rummaging in her pack, Alia counts out some of the coins they had found earlier, then returns to Akate: "As Durgan said, make your way to the Trading Post. There were some troubles with Kobolds lately - Shepherd Jhod is there, but having an extra healer is always welcome. Report to Kesten Garess and tell him we sent you. If there is no trouble, simply stand by, and think about what you wish to do. We will return in a few weeks time, and discuss options for permanent employment with you, then."
She hands the Tiefling woman a pouch inside a pouch, with 50 Gold Coins:"That should cover any debts you owe to the glassmaker and your expenses for the foreseeable future. I want you to wait for us for 100 days - if we don't send word or show up by then, you are free to do as you please."
___________________
When they arrive in Restov, before resting, Alia will find Mung in the Coppers, and ask him of news, politely declining food offered, but buying some for any street kids nearby.
Scarlet follows Alia, recalling her duty as a bodyguard. Something about that bossy elf's words stuck- she hasn't been fulfilling her contract to the best of her ability.
She hands the Tiefling woman a pouch inside a pouch, with 50 Gold Coins
"I'm sure it'll work Akate! And don't worry, I know human can be mean to those that aren't quite ... that. But they'll respect you eventually!" the half elf shares some parting words of wisdom (hopefully).
---
Illthir lights up as they get within the familiar walls of Restov. Home still held a warm place in her heart. Straightening up in her saddle she brushed her hair as best as she could with her hands. "So! I'm going to swing by home real quick. Meet you all somewhere tomorrow?"
"Your father is a merchant, correct? Convey a blessing of Abadar to him - 'May his integrity bring him prosperity.'"
"I could accompany you if you wished. I do not believe we have many enemies who would attempt to pick us off if we were split up, but there is that dark elf, who is fond of illusions."
"Otherwise, I will go to the Church of Abadar, pay a visit to the local Banker, and file a report about not only the defeat of the Stag Lord but also the recovery of various stolen trade goods."
"Aye, we'll be waiting for you, I'm not sure I want to go wandering the city .. unless you want accompaniment, either of you that is?" he says with looks around him at the relatively big city
"Actually, Zokon, I think you should come with me. It would be good for the Church of Abadar to get to know you, since I have asked them to support your designation in the Charter. I mentioned in my letter to them a fair process for restoring the stolen trade goods to the merchants. If you advocate for this plan, maybe even lowering the 15% finders fee I proposed to 10% instead, then I think the merchants and the Church would look favorably on you.
As well, there is the fact that one day Cerulean Glory may be as grand as Restov. We can walk around this city and ponder what lessons it gives for what to do and what not to do in laying out your capital. I could quote you advice and insights from the holy text The Manual of City-Building, but there is nothing like exploring a city for yourself."
"That seems fair and thus I shall accompany you. Alia do you wish to come as well?" Zokon grabs whatever he needs and gets ready to go
When they arrive in Restov, before resting, Alia will find Mung in the Coppers, and ask him of news, politely declining food offered, but buying some for any street kids nearby.
[dice=Diplomacy to Gather Information: Rumors, Mungs Brand]1d20+3+2
[dice=Hour]1d4
"MEAT PIES! MEAT PIES! FRESH, SAVORY, MEAT PIES! GET 'EM WHILST THEY ARE MEAT! Meat pie M'lords? It's 'Nearly-Two for One Toilsday!'" shouts a half-orc entrepreneur. From atop his crate perch he can be heard two streets over.
In conversation between customers, Alia learns that there is tension between some of the dueling schools in town, a centaur rebellion brewing to the south in what is now being called Varnhold, and that a number of big muckety-mucks from the Stolen Land and elsewhere are in town for something. "Why, I just saw the old Archbanker pass. He must not o' heard me, cause otherwise 'e would 'ave stopped. It's 'Nearly-Two for One Toilsday' ya know."
Mung of course thanks Alia and her friends again for saving the waterfront from an invasion of plague rats, and continues to not discuss where he acquires his 'meat' from.
Mund interrupts the interview again to shout at a passing black-lacquered coach, surrounded by a few fully-armored guardsmen in foreign-looking plate. They don't even slow down.
"Bah. Foreigners."
"I'll pass the blessing on to him, thanks." Illthir smiled. "You are welcome to follow me along but I think I'll be fine. Go and enjoy the architecture. Unless you *really* want to see mom try and stuff me full of sweet bread."
Victoria hasn't had much occasion to travel to cities. Being unaccustomed to the hustle and bustle, she tries to always keep a few of her companions in view.
"Civilization at last." cries the Magister from the window of his carriage. "Well, I'm off to my home come by the office when you get a moment as I will go over the support that Restov--err, Brevoy will be sending back with you. Also it is my understanding that the Lord Mayor is arranging a little party to mark the occasion of your yours and the other exploratory group's successes."
And with that his carriage and guardsmen depart.
"Civilization at last." cries the Magister from the window of his carriage. "Well, I'm off to my home come by the office when you get a moment as I will go over the support that Restov--err, Brevoy will be sending back with you. Also it is my understanding that the Lord Mayor is arranging a little party to mark the occasion of your yours and the other exploratory group's successes."
And with that his carriage and guardsmen depart.
"A party you say?" Posh asks with a wide grin as he seemed to already be putting together what he wanted to do "Plenty of women I hope?"
Zokon will go off with Durgan and then from there wherever seems the most popular opinion, To shops to get some nice clothes would be one and maybe even take Alia so we can get matching outfits for a united from\nt
Zokon also advises each of the others that they as having large roles in the new lands should also get appropriate clothes so we can all make a good impression.
Zokon will go off with Durgan and then from there wherever seems the most popular opinion, To shops to get some nice clothes would be one and maybe even take Alia so we can get matching outfits for a united from\ntZokon also advises each of the others that they as having large roles in the new lands should also get appropriate clothes so we can all make a good impression.
Posh gives a smirk as he thinks about what he could potentially buy. He seems to go into a daydream of somesort before he looks for robes that are both fairly extravagant and with flashy colours that scream the element of Chaos. Something incredibly garish and would be a head-turner.
"I'll pick up something appropriate. Smell ya laters!" Illthir waves and heads over to spend the day with her family.
Alia makes sure to share her new-found knowledge with the others. The centaur rebellion in Varnhold seemed particularily worrysome - if they succeed, the border to Varnhold would be unstable. If they lost, they might cross the border to escape Varnhold justice. Either way, it seemed worth to stay informed about that one.
The tension between duelling schools was also something to keep in mind...so not to accidentally step on someones toes, and for politics in general.
Afterwards, Alia will accompany Victoria trying to remember where Arcane Scrolls might be available for sale. Of course, that also gave her some time to talk with the woman. There were few specific topics that needed to be talked about, but after Victorias rescue, everything was quite hectic. Strolling on the streets, idly chatting, stopping for a drink and getting a chance to relax made for a much different atmosphere for getting to know each other.
Of course, Scarlet was also with them. She seemed...different, in her mind already with her brothers company. Alia had managed to retrieve the map, and the contract, as such, was fulfilled. She had hoped to renew it, but considering what had happened with the Blue Beetle...it was probably for the better. It would not be fair to force Scarlet to choose between duty and family.
On the next day, she accompanies Zokon to a clothier.
As she stands in a backroom getting her measurements taken, she asks: "Is this really necessary? I will do it, for you, but I am not used to dresses. They make me feel both clumsy and vulnerable...I will need to look into enchantments to counteract that if I am to wear them more often to formal occasions."
She sighs audibly with acceptance of her fate.
The First Temple of Abadar of Restov is an impressive structure looks like many other temples dedicated to the Master of the First Vault. Thick white walls, huge columns supporting triangular pediment inset with relief sculptures showing the many of the god's works and other symbols of progress. The vaulted interior is no less impressive. All in all the place exudes a sense of holiness and authority that much of the rest of the city does not.
A tithe taker greats you in the narthex to remind you that time is money and that the clerics within are busy people. Indeed each office door has it's own little built-in offering box made of the same rich wood as the rest of the door and stained the same dark, dark brown.
"You've been to a temple of Abadar before, right Zokon? Business, laws, civilization, trade. All the things you have heard me talk about. You don't have to worship Abadar to earn their support, but you will need to convince them that you can bring order and prosperity to the realm without threatening the order and prosperity of the neighbors."
Durgan greets the tithe taker. "May your ventures prosper." He puts a few coins in the box. At the tithe taker's presumed skeptical look, he adds, "I have a far more significant contribution to make."
"Who is the ranking Banker here at the moment? We have a matter of some importance to discuss."
Upon seeing Illthir returning to her neighborhood, old Mr. Shallowaters, a fishmonger and longtime neighbor rushes out with a heavy sledge hammer and demolishes the torch post that lights the lane at night.
With a few blows he fells the post. Then he tosses the bludgeon to the cobbles, sniffs at Illthir in apparent triumph, and then proudly marches back to his warehouse shop.
Durgan greets the tithe taker. "May your ventures prosper." He puts a few coins in the box. At the tithe taker's presumed skeptical look, he adds, "I have a far more significant contribution to make."
"Who is the ranking Banker here at the moment? We have a matter of some importance to discuss."
"Why, I am, of course." says the Archbanker from a second floor balcony. "I did not expect to see you arrive for another day or two, Banker Far-Walker. Come up, so we may talk in the comfort of my office."
Whispering back to Durgan.. "I may have been to an Adadaran temple before... in my youth, yes I stand for order and fairness, I want to setup a new prosperous settlement and nation where there was none before, with all the associated trade and prosperity for all that accompanies such ventures."
Zokon follows up to the office
"Greetings, Archbanker. May I present Zokon Santyev. Everything I have to say is for his ears as well; if there is any private Church business I would ask that we deal with it afterwards."
Durgan heads up to the office.
"I wasn't certain that I would make it here as quickly as the Magister, so I gave him a sealed letter to deliver. If he has delivered the letter, I would like to verify that it was not damaged in transit. An accidental rip or waterstain could change the meaning of what I wrote.
And if he didn't deliver it, here is what I have to report."
Durgan produces a copy of the letter.
"Feel free to take a look, Zokon."
The bandit king known as the Stag Lord is dead, slain by my axe and the swords of Serena Mistcastle, Scarlet Scarab, and the elf known as Alia of the Blade. This is the truth of the matter, by Abadar.
His father, a fell druid, is also slain.
One of his lieutenants, the drow wizard known as Salzarus, escaped. He has a preference for invisibility, illusions and necromantic spells. He also has a fondness for gunpowder and is responsible for explosion that caused the death of Oleg Leveton. Salzarus is cunning and has been known to turn the tables on those who track him, but as with all wizards, his magic is limited. He is also devoid of allies at the moment but may seek to link up with other drow. I will pledge 1,000 gold towards a reward for his head, and encourage the Church to contribute further. He is more dangerous than any other brigand or bandit in the Stolen Lands.
The bulk of the Stag Lord's followers were starving peasants, suffering from the inadequate economy of the Stolen Lands. Given the scarcity of manpower here, the general absence of laws, the lack of hard evidence tying them to specific acts of banditry, and the sensibilities of my comrades, I have decided to extend to them the opportunity to pay their debt to society through work. This was the most profitable course of action. Should they return to banditry there will be no mercy.
We found numerous trade goods that were looted by the bandits. Please direct merchants' claims to me, with a description of the goods and assessed value, and they can come here to have their goods returned for an appropriate reclamation fee of 15% of the value.
I am under consideration for inclusion in a new Charter to govern this part of the Stolen Lands. While the human Zokon Santyev is likely the best candidate to take precedence, I will do my part to ensure that these lands are governed responsibly and thrive economically. I request the support of the Church of Abadar in my inclusion, and that of Zokon Santyev, who I vouch for.
Trade with Brevoy and Restov will be essential, and I welcome the ideas of my fellow Bankers as to how to best nurture that commerce. I will visit the various cities of Brevoy and the Free City of Restov as soon as I am able, and send word when this region of the Stolen Lands are ready to receive guests. Through the grace of Abadar, we have the ability to bring civilization and prosperity to the Stolen Lands. May our ventures thrive.
Durgan adds, "Archbanker, if you have any concerns about our lenient treatment of the Stag Lord's men, I stand ready to answer for it as you see fit.
As to inclusion in the Charter, we will need ties to Brevoy to assure our patrons, but there is merit in not being too close. In order to keep the peace. Your home of Mivon might prefer that we were a bit more autonomous, and not fully subservient to the Dragonscale Throne. As well, the Free City of Restov might like that. I ask your advice in navigating these matters of politics."
"Greetings, Archbanker. May I present Zokon Santyev. Everything I have to say is for his ears as well; if there is any private Church business I would ask that we deal with it afterwards."
Durgan heads up to the office.
"Of course." says the Archbanker inviting the pair up to his sumptuous office. He shakes Durgan's and Zokon's hands at the door and waves them in. The place is large and comfortable looking with patterned, yellow, gold, and sepia stained-glass windows letting in a glorious diffusion of warm light. Barasav bids everyone else to be seated before taking his own seat behind his boat-sized desk.
"I wasn't certain that I would make it here as quickly as the Magister, so I gave him a sealed letter to deliver."
The Archbanker produces his copy of the letter. "Yes. It seems all in good order."
Durgan adds, "Archbanker, if you have any concerns about our lenient treatment of the Stag Lord's men, I stand ready to answer for it as you see fit.
"Don't give it a second thought, Dugran. After all why waste good material."
As to inclusion in the Charter, we will need ties to Brevoy to assure our patrons, but there is merit in not being too close. In order to keep the peace. Your home of Mivon might prefer that we were a bit more autonomous, and not fully subservient to the Dragonscale Throne. As well, the Free City of Restov might like that. I ask your advice in navigating these matters of politics."
"If I may be so bold, you have come to the right place." The Archbanker stands and paces to the window and looks out through a clear pane and over the city. "All the lands around us are in chaos. Brevoy, Mivon, Pitax, Galt, Numeria, and all of the other River Kingdoms. It is a constant battle every day to maintain the stability needed for rational people to survive and thrive to become something larger than themselves. To that end, we are prepared to help you become the shining beacon of hope that these war-weary north-lands have been aching for. I want you to know that you both may count upon the Vault of the Wealthy Father to aid you in taming the untamed vastness of this new discovered land."
Serena notes a woman exiting a carriage along near an intersection of streets. She steps out of the shadows of the surround buildings in the dusklight and into the intersection near its small central fountain. The woman's sun-tanned skin and night-black hair is enough to make her stand out here in Brevoy. But it is her blue and gold garments cut in such a foreign way and the symbol of the Dawnflower that sits upon her breast that draws Serene's attention. The sun's red-gold light turns the gold symbol dazzling for a moment as the woman kneels down for evening prayer--to give thanks for the day that was to the Healing Flame and the westering sun.
"I thank you for your time and your support, Archbanker. I understand that the Lord Mayor will be holding some sort of celebration in honor of the exploratory groups. Perhaps I will see you there.
Zokon, do you have any questions or requests?"
"Thankyou Archbanker Siguard, I am sure the people of Avalon will benefit greatly from the prescense of the faithful of Abadar. I must warn you that I intend to give voice to at least three religions in the area, being the faiths of Abadar, Erastil and Sarenrae and I intend to show no bias for or against any. That will not preclude me from acknowledging the positive accomplishments and earning of goodwill of such faiths though. " Zokon stops before he goes any further as he knows he has a tendency to waffle
Durgan looks nervous. Zokon... did you have to go there?
The dwarf ponders how to approach this sensitive subject. He settles on the straightforward approach.
"Yes, Sarenrae. A Sarenrite paladin fights beside us.. Serena Mistcastle, mentioned in the letter. Just as Sarenrae herself fought alongside Abadar to cast down the Rough Beast, or as Sarenrite paladins fight today in the Worldwound alongside our faithful and those of Torag and Iomedae. Serena cares for justice and mercy, but not for spreading the faith of the Sarenrae at the point of a sword, as might be feared in Taldor. I can bring her here for you to meet yourself if you wish, or you can speak to her at this party."
Serena does likewise before approaching the woman. "It has been long since I have seen another worshipper of the Dawnflower. I am Serena Mistcastle. Whom do I have the pleasure of addressing?"
"I thank you for your time and your support, Archbanker. I understand that the Lord Mayor will be holding some sort of celebration in honor of the exploratory groups. Perhaps I will see you there.
"Certainly."
Zokon, do you have any questions or requests?"[/b]
The Archbanker looks pleasantly over at Zokon.
"Thankyou Archbanker Siguard, I am sure the people of Avalon will benefit greatly from the prescense of the faithful of Abadar. I must warn you that I intend to give voice to at least three religions in the area, being the faiths of Abadar, Erastil and Sarenrae and I intend to show no bias for or against any. That will not preclude me from acknowledging the positive accomplishments and earning of goodwill of such faiths though. " Zokon stops before he goes any further as he knows he has a tendency to waffle
"Yes, well, of course."
After some pleasantries the Archbanker sees both men to the door of his office shakes their hands and offers the blessing of Abadar upon them both. Then he suddenly remembers a bit of church business that he promises won't take long and invites Durgan back in.
"We won't be, but a moment." assures the Archbanker to Zokon.
"Durgan. Let me be frank, while we in the church applaud diversity leaving one's door open to everyone can only invite chaos in as well."
"It is important that a state--most especially a state born in the turbulent River Kingdoms--have a vision for the future, not only for themselves, but for their neighbors, and civilized people as a whole. Few if any kingdoms survive for very long in the lands you have claimed. You know that. You and your companions will need to bring all of your focus to bear on crafting this fledgling Avalon of yours. Too many voices might only serve to distract. Zokon seems a fine young man, but he is still a very young man, and will need your tempered guidance to see this project through. Do not let him down."
"We will speak more of this at the Mayor's ball."