You've developed notoriety as an adventurer, having earned the praise and acceptance of your peers ( well some of them ). During your journeys, you were happened upon by a courier whose message invited you to a meeting with the Golden Watch – a legendary group of accomplished adventurers whose deeds and exploits gave inspiration to bardic song and tale. Confident that the members of the Golden Watch could provide guidance, client connections, as well as experience, you had learned that they had last been seen in Cassomir, a city on Taldor's western border that overlooks the Sellen River and the free nation of Andoran.
While Oppara stands as the crown jewel of the empire, Cassomir holds its own as the second largest city and bustling hub responsible for Taldor's trading and commerce among the Inner Sea. After having been within the city for several days, you've learned that the Golden Watch has taken residence at The Swordpoint – an expensive inn which lies within the northwestern section of the Old Cassomir District.
At behest from an invitation, you're welcomed within a private chamber that overlooks much of the historic district – a collection of buildings that dates the city's founding. Though modest in size, the private chamber serves as a parlor complete with a small dining table containing libations and treats for the guests, several comfortable loveseats that are situated well within a small fireplace's warmth, and paintings depicting Taldor's landscapes line the walls. Upon a bench adjacent to a large window awaits a weathered couple – a caramel toned man with a warrior's body and his companion, a pale, thin woman with neatly piled platinum hair.
Allowing a small moment of time to pass, the elderly woman takes notice of your presence and beckons you forth.
“We are grateful that you came. This is my husband and long-time comrade, —we called him in our day—and I am . The two of us were once adventurers like you, and we, along with a few of our friends, have had more than our share of excitement in our youth and with our group – .”
She looks to her companion, who sits up to take a sip of ale, wiping his gray mustache with an embroidered cloth. He says in a weathered voice,
“Each year about this time, the remaining four of us gather together in this city to remember our fallen friend, , and to lend our experience to a cause worth fighting for. We can still face bullies and brigands and such, but my hammer gets heavier every time I lift it. I’ve meant for each of our last three ventures to be the end, but and I still travel here every year to meet up with and and to share a few stories with younger travelers like yourselves.”
He pauses for a long second, taking a sip from his ale and assessing the crowd of adventurers that stands before him.
“In another time, you might have been associates of my rag-tag team!” he said with a hearty laugh. “Being that you've heard about myself and Branda here, it is fitting that yall should introduce yourselves! Are we not fellow adventurers?!”
A red-headed dwarf with braided hair grins somewhat wanly at Verus and says, "I doubt I qualify as a 'younger traveler' in terms of years; these eyes have seen seventy-five summers. On the other hand, I believe you humans have a saying, something to the effect of 'it's not the years; it's the mileage.' In those terms, I most definitely am younger than the two of you, since I have only recently left my home in Janderhoff. My name is Dolth, formerly Lt. Dolth of the Janderhoff militia. Pleased to make your acquaintance. Now, where can I find some of that ale? First things first. Drinks, then warrior tales."
A halfling woman, dressed simply and for practicality--even her sparkling breastplate contains no frills or excess extravagance, bearing only a simple engraving on the front of a woman in profile with a simple mask on the back of her head--removes her tan hat and goggles, shaking out her sandy blonde hair. "Marigold Whiteroot, Cassomir native," she says by way of introduction, her voice even and surprisingly deep for a halfling.
"I try not to make my efforts known too widely, but in certain circles I am well recognized as an enemy to bullies of all kinds," she hints with a slight smirk. "In any case, I am a guide to the lost as a follower of the goddess Alseta. She has guided my hand against many evils: corrupt merchants, cruel slavers, those who consort with devils; but enough about me!" The halfling dismisses her introduction with a modest wave. "I am glad to meet such an impressive and storied group!"
The out lying woman was Qin'e. She stood obviously taller than the others so far. She was also a half elf.
She was currently splitting her attention between listening to Branda and Verus, and reading one of her scrolls. She did however look up and bow, properly as she rolled the scroll closed, her eyes not meeting them while she did so.
"Iwamizu Halpaeril Qin'e. But please, call me Wami."
She stood in full again, and fixed her robes.
"My swordplay will surely thrill and excite you should you see it."
Qin'e smiled and did a graceful twirl, brandishing a scroll in each hand.
Dolth nods at Bromen as he sees the other dwarf sizing him up. "And what's this 'Spellbane Prophecy' ye're speaking of, laddie?"
Dolth nods at the other adventurers. "Pleased to meet ye," he says. Then he turns to the host and hostess: "Aye, business. I see ye've prepared a right princely spread. May we be seated?"
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A short man dressed as a noble, who so far has been standing quietly at the back, steps forward and bows smoothly. He bears no discerible weapons, but approaches with enough grace and confidence that you have no doubt he can take care of himself.
"My apologies, I have neglected to introduce myself. I go by the name of Lex Reicher, I am an information broker, troubleshooter,agent provocateur and infiltrator. Anything you need recovered, I can do for the right price."
“To think we weren't much different then..., am I right my dear?” remarked Verus as his hand found its way around his wife's waist. Less amiable than her companion, Branda spared a moment to stare at each of the adventurers, sizing each one up. “I suppose, Verus.”
A red-headed dwarf with braided hair grins somewhat wanly at Verus and says, "I doubt I qualify as a 'younger traveler' in terms of years; these eyes have seen seventy-five summers. On the other hand, I believe you humans have a saying, something to the effect of 'it's not the years; it's the mileage.' In those terms, I most definitely am younger than the two of you, since I have only recently left my home in Janderhoff. My name is Dolth, formerly Lt. Dolth of the Janderhoff militia. Pleased to make your acquaintance. Now, where can I find some of that ale? First things first. Drinks, then warrior tales...."Aye, business. I see ye've prepared a right princely spread. May we be seated?" "
To the thirsty dwarf, Verus points to a small table bearing a miniature keg, a finely crafted vessel bearing Cayden's sigil and situated by a small stack of mugs.
”Please, help yourselves to refreshments and find a seat. I believe this should put yall in better spirits as we've business to discuss” said Verus as he helped himself to a hearty gulp.
After the heroes' introduction, Verus continues after another pause. Worry hangs heavy in the air as he clears his throat.
“Our two friends have not made their appearance yet this year. We’ve learned that one, , is laid up in a place called , in nearby . The other one is more curious— is a half-elf, so he’s a bit more active and nimble than the rest of us. And he never really took to retirement, so this gathering started as his idea. It worries us that he hasn’t shown, especially as we’ve made our share of enemies over the years. We think it’s best we stay here, should arrive, but ask that you would check his home for us just in case—and bring word back of , as well.”
Seeing Cayden's mark on the keg, Dolth nods approvingly. Now there's a god what ken how to party. I wonder if he takes better care o' his followers than the 'Father of Dwarves'? 'Father', my arse. Ye serve 'im faithfully all your days, and he can nae (or will nae) help ye when y'need 'im most. He grabs a mug, fills it and sits down to listen to Verus' explanation. At its conclusion, he knocks back what little remains in the mug and saunters over to the keg for a refill. After he returns to his chair and Lex asks his questions, Dolth chimes in: "Aye...Lex, y'said yer name was?" He looks squarely at Verus and Branda and says, Ye would nae be hirin' veterans for a simple visit to check up on a couple of friends. Since ye've called us here--in place o'some wet behind the ears kids--ye must have at least some ken o' what's up."
Lex sits as Verus details the reasons for the summons. "So, some questions if I may; Where does Taergan Flinn live? Are there any particular enemies that you had in mind, and what sort of remuneration package are you offering?"
glared at Lex Reicher. ”Enemies, hah! Only a few actually posed a threat!” Turning to face her husband, a wry smile formed on her face and there was a suggestion of former glory as they reminisced. Picking on the cue, Verus continued. “There was who thought all the world's money and an army of Steel Golems could grant him power.” Branda emitted a small laugh, pantomiming the villian's mannerisms earning a beaming smile from her lover. ” heck, even a small group of mercenaries known as the .” chimed in Verus.
The couple had gone on for a short while before they realized their reminiscing had reached a tangent. Taking a quick sip, Verus continued the conversation. ”The point is kids, that you'll never know who's feet you've stepped until they've become sore, create a grudge, and spend their entire life trying to ruin yours."
Sensing that her husband had been pondering their comrade's fate, Branda took over, trying to address the curious nature of their audience.
”The annual meeting had been idea, being that he had taken residence here in Cassomir, it was only natural that we'd come his home town. It's been this way for the past four years. “ Allowing a small break, she had motioned towards the refreshments table and poured a small snifter of brandy while eying the dwarves suspiciously. ”To be frank, this isn't anything like or to be late. I can only imagine that one of his latest alchemical pursuits has gone afoul or that an old enemy had intercepted him.” Enjoying a small sip from the finest had to offer, she paused and thought about her past with the group.
Ye would nae be hirin' veterans for a simple visit to check up on a couple of friends. Since ye've called us here--in place o'some wet behind the ears kids--ye must have at least some ken o' what's up."
Sensing confusion from the crowd, Verus clarified matters. ”While remains late, it is who we're also concerned about. He has yet to arrive from his hospice in , a relatively short journey without peril.” Clearing his throat with a swig of ale, he continued. ”I know...our request may seem trifling, and you're probably wondering – If their friends are so important to find, why can't they do it themselves - well, our request is not without reward.” Piggy backing on her husband's statement, Branda follows suite. “We’ve talked about mentoring a few younger pioneers, maybe even handing down a few secrets we never quite explored. We’d be willing to lend you our company and more if you’d be good enough to check on our two friends. If they need help, we’d rather someone younger and up to a challenge discover them. Once we know they’re safe, we’ll look in on them ourselves. If you could, please check on which lies over in the , and then head towards ”
"Sounds mystifying. Perhaps we should start with the residence to our north east, guys?"
Qin'e addressed the rest of the ones she was with.
"After all, the circumstances are very unusual."
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some secrets mused Lex They might be worth a bit. He raised a glass of wine to his lips and sipped politely to mask his whirling thoughts. "Is there to be no payment for expenses, at least? You understand that a trip to Hope's Hollow and investigation in the city often incurs expenses - Travel expenses, Bribes and so on. Are we to be expected to support ourselves? Then there is the possibility that something has indeed happened to your comrades. Are we to be expected to risk life and limb for some secrets of undetermined worth? I don't object to the risk, you understand; it is part of the chosen career path, but I would prefer something a little more concrete than intangible assets of uncertain value. While they may be the key to a lost dragon's hoard, they might also be completely worthless, and we need to live, which is not cheap."
some secrets mused Lex They might be worth a bit. He raised a glass of wine to his lips and sipped politely to mask his whirling thoughts. "Is there to be no payment for expenses, at least? You understand that a trip to Hope's Hollow and investigation in the city often incurs expenses - Travel expenses, Bribes and so on. Are we to be expected to support ourselves? Then there is the possibility that something has indeed happened to your comrades. Are we to be expected to risk life and limb for some secrets of undetermined worth? I don't object to the risk, you understand; it is part of the chosen career path, but I would prefer something a little more concrete than intangible assets of uncertain value. While they may be the key to a lost dragon's hoard, they might also be completely worthless, and we need to live, which is not cheap."
The elderly couple exchanged glances with each other before bursting into a fit of laughter. Branda took the lead, eying the adventurer who had made this bold claim.
”Your petition is cute, was it Rex? Oh sorry, I mean, Lex. You see, the mere fact that I, a member of the have asked politely and offered my services as a mentor, contact, and ally who can share my experience as an adventurer. What you seem to misunderstand that a meeting with my group isn't for your convenience, we're not traveling minstrels looking for a following. Honey, we're established adventurers unlike you".
Chuckling, Verus smiled and placed a hand on his knee. ”What my better half means is that we come from a period where our younger peers would marvel at this opportunity and hope to learn from it, not throw pearls before the swine because of no quick cash. What we're asking for isn't a freelance job as a Guild would offer, but rather a favor for another”.
Rising from the bench, Verus scans the room, searching for inspiration within the adventurers. ”I do hope that this man hasn't deterred your actions on aiding my missing friends.”
Dolth stroked his beard thoughtfully as he considered the situation before him. After a few moments, he nodded decisively. "Friends 'n information are two of the most valuable things around; it does nae seem like we'd be going too far afield to help these fine folk. I say we head t'this Taergan's place now.". He pauses, and then a wry grin breaks out on his face. "Well, on second thought, I'll be gettin' another round a'fore we go." After saying this, Dolth got up and made a beeline for the keg.
Qin'e paused for a moment.
"Our compatriot does pose a good point that is valid in every way. Most of the time, when work is given, the terms of are discussed prior to the task actually seeing action performed to solve it.
Additionally, favor or not, everything has a price and due negotiations to be made. So far, you disregarded a valid point and looked down the nose at us, who may or may not be as skilled as you claim to be, for you know not our pasts.
I will give you guys the grace in knowing that this request is actually made more of heart than of business. I'd be willing to let issues of rewards slide for the sake of accomplishing a minute and trivial task. It's something we should all be obligated to do regardless of circumstance."
She opened a scroll again.
"However, I will disagree with your statement regarding marveling at an opportunity to learn something. I think you'd be surprised at how knowledgeable I already am; further teachings would need to be incredibly advanced and thorough so as to be new in value to me.
Perhaps this is something I differ in compared to some of my compatriots. Perhaps they too have knowledge already. This would be the actual reason we'd suggest negotiation of physical rewards, for we may not entirely benefit of mental rewards depending on our own studies. So far, the rewards mentioned are based in knowledge.
Or am I wrong in that observation? Entirely a possible outcome. If I am wrong, please speak so. But please do understand, oh so experienced ones, that there is a balance to everything."
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"The lady speaks truly." Lex executes a small bow in her direction. "You must understand that I have made it my business to uncover secrets, so I am not discounting their value in any way, and the offer of contacts is also one that I would value highly in my business; but both of those represent an investment reaping a future reward. If we cannot survive to reach that future, there is no point in the investment. To quote an old Varisian proverb; Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day. Give him a fishing rod and he will starve to death before he learns how to use it. You offer a fishing rod, but it is useless to those who are starving. That is why I ask for the fish.
Now, you are great adventurers, and therefore you have gathered to yourselves a large fortune; will you not release just a small portion of your largesse to cover at least daily expenses, that we may be guaranteed of feeding ourselves while we are unable to pursue other means of financing our lifestyles."
"Pleased to meet you, Victoria. I am Marigold Whiteroot," the halfling says with a smile. A servant of Sarenrae it seems. I've never turned down helped from those who serve the Dawnflower before. "Our gracious hosts, two members of the illustrious Golden Watch, have asked us to find a couple of their friends, who are even later than you are." This last phrase is said with a coy smile, rather than any sort of chastisement. She explains the details of the request to Victoria, about finding Taergan and Dorn.
"Some of our friends here were just discussing our reimbursement. For some, it seems, the honor of helping the famous Golden Watch and earning their respect and a favor in return is not enough. It seems like a simple enough task. I do not think it will require more than our combined effort can muster to simply check up on a few old friends." Marigold gives her more reluctant companions a soft smile. "If it is mere gold you seek, there is certainly work in Cassomir for you, and I'd be glad to assist you in finding it. Lex, if you're in need of literal sustenance--I apologize, I am no good with lengthy metaphors--I'd be happy to assist in that area as well. But here is a golden door of opportunity! Surely you don't think that Branda and Verus got to where they are without a little help." The halfling turns to address the hosts. "I offer my services as a follower of The Welcomer. I hope that we find your friends well."
Dolth returns to the table with another mug of ale and sits down as Victoria enters the room. As Marigold is explaining the situation to Victoria, Dolth listens and drinks his ale. After Marigold concludes, Dolth replies:"Aye, I hope so too, and 'tis more likely t'be the case the sooner we get to it. Time's a'wasting.".
Allowing an exchange of dialogue to occur between the adventurers, Branda signed to her husband in secret. After a brief nod, Verus took a seat near a table, produced an ink pen and several sheets of yellow vellum and went to work while Branda Tulles addressed the crowd.
”It seems that you have passed our test, albeit an initial one. While many claim the mantle of adventurer, few would fight for their right. To be truthful, it was more of a measure to see who among you has initiative and that belongs to the young miss, Marigold.” Walking closer towards the Paladin, Branda eyed the crowd for a reaction and continued. ”My friends and are dear to us, and if nothing is wrong, we'd be willing to compensate you all for your time.”
Verus then strides forth bearing the fruits of his labor – renderings of both and , as well as a small map of detailing where Flinn resides. Pointing towards the renderings, Branda begins explaining their relevance.
“ a who's blessed by his pedigree, the little darling's gotta be entering his now and might not even show it. I suppose he still has his , though it's his attire that should give him away – a stylish and such.”Allowing for a small sip of brandy, Branda then talks about Dern.”As for , he's...fared the worse of us. He's a , and a good one! His talents had helped us in tight moments in the past. He's an ”
”Drawing's been a recent discovery of mine. Outside of ranch handling, Branda encouraged me to pick up a hobby. Not bad if I say so myself.” said Verus with a beaming smile as he handed the renderings to Marigold. ”So little lady, is your group in agreement, or must we dilly dally while my friends are missing?”
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Lex shrugs. Doubt if there's any real danger to the old man. Probably tucked up in his bed. The Half-Elf is more of a mystery. Still, shouldn't take long, and hopefully it'll keep me going until something better comes along. Out loud he adds, "Don't worry ma'am, we'll find your friends. I am an expert in retrieving missing items and people."
Dolth stands up, checks to make sure all of his equipment is in place, and follows Victoria out of the room.
The journey to house was a short walk as Verus had doodled a quick map pointing to where his companion had lived. On the way, locals gave mixed reactions at the sight of the companions.
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Located on the northeast side of , townhouse appears worthy of a lifelong adventurer. overlook manicured bushes, presenting a posh face to the front drive. .
The townhouse’s second floor is constructed of wood, and has many windows. The building’s of some kind. The house is as quiet as the neighborhood surrounding it.
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Pleased with her fellow adventurers' cooperation, Marigold smiles pleasantly on the way to Taergan's, greeting various locals (mostly halflings) on the way.
Once before the townhouse, Marigold admires the lion's head knocker with a wry smile. "Normally I'd say we should just knock," the halfling starts, "but things seem a little too quiet. Perhaps he is simply in his lab, though? In any case, I'll see if there's any hidden foul play about..." Marigold concentrates for a second, then her irises sparkle a brilliant gold as she calls on Alseta to grant her vision of evil.
Qin'e sighs, and takes the more sensible route once they arrive; she goes up and uses the ornate knocker, knocking a few times.
Then, she waited.
Dolth waits behind Victoria with his left hand resting on his scimitar.
Confident in your patron's devotion to doorways and the such, you're the most reasonable person within your group to not BREAK and ENTER.
Allowing a pool of confidence to pour within your soul, Alseta's grace emboldens your resolve, giving you the sight to look for evil and it's portents. Concentrating on the facade's windows, you weren't able to detect even the slightest evil.
You believe you are sneaky.
Advancing towards the Servant's Building, you were certain that any passerbyers didn't notice you. Doing a small tumble and roll, you found a window that overlooked a small hedge. Creeping behind the foliage, you spot It appeared that they seemed ingrossed in their task...
Diligence and Commitment, two principles hammered into your upbringing prepared you for this trying moment. While your companions squabbled about, you separated yourself from them and focused on the series of large windows that stood before you. Moments passed and you spotted nothing.
Whether by earnest knock, loud yelling, or time honored patience, the party's efforts were in vain.
Dolth rubs his beard pensively. "It is possible they heard and chose to ignore us. In any case, I vote that we investigate," he says.
"Subterfuge would probably be better. We need to make it known we're merely visitors, and don't mean trouble."
Qin'e covered her mouth with a scroll held akin to a fan.
Dolth follows the other dwarf. Somebody's got t'keep an eye on the youngster. Only Torag kens wha' he might be gettin' us into...an' I dinnae expect 'im t'be tellin'.