"I grew up here and worked as a solider for ten years. Of course that was about eight years ago and the place has changed a lot since then. Come and sit down I will buy you a drink take the edge off.""Ah. Hmmm. Yes. Thanks. But actually. I don't deal well with alcohol. I get... trigger happy, I guess you might say. Not good for my state of employment. Or health. Or the health of others. So yeah. Mostly all I drink is water. Maybe some watered down wine. Don't trust the water here. Run down. Not sanitary. Have purification system somewhere..." I start rummaging around in my bag, looking for the filter bag in my pack.
So a decade of military experience and a friendly demeanor. That's good. I make a mental note to stick close to him in case of firefight. Not too close though. Don't wanna blow him up. Don't wanna blow me up either, but I have less of a say in that.
"So what'd you do for the past eight years?" I ask, remembering that I'll be getting wine, and thus don't need the filter bag. Watered wine. More like winey water. Hm. I follow the big man over to the fire and sit down.
"We'll I don't see ya carrin a crossbow so I don't know what yer gettin trigger happy with. And that other stuff about water I don't get either. But you seem a good kid anyway. As for yer other question I had a tavern for a bit. Turns out I like the product too much! Then I joined up as a cleric of Caiden. Worshiping him IS drinking, and helping those that can't help themselves. I like one about as much as the other" Thran continues his drinking song.
As he expected the job seemed rife with risk and danger, and normally when such offers came supported by political motivations Raul was quick to decline, but this was different...The green eyes of the rogue shifted slightly from their original target, information brokers were always a special case for him, and for some reason he believed or wanted to believe that this particular man was as good as he presented himself to be.
"I assume the offer is not for me alone" Began the red haired man as he returned his gaze towards Brack "I usually try to stay out of issues like these but I think an exception can be made here" said Raul "don't misunderstand this doesn't mean I accept your offer, just that I am interested" he continued as he pulled something out of a well memorized pocket of his backpack.
"Assuming that we end up accepting and somehow fulfilling this task" He placed the object he pulled out of his backpack which upon closer inspection was revealed to be a cheap looking, worn silver bracelet with unique elven markings "What sort of reward would you offer us?" Inquired Raul "and once more assuming the reward is to my liking and my traveling companions liking, I would propose a personal deal between you and me" He pushed the bracelet across the table but still kept it within arm's length "You said part of your job involves dealing with information, so I am assuming finding news regarding people whereabouts isn't something that you are unused to, in short if you can bring me reliable news of an elven girl who wears or has worn at some point a similar bracelet, I'll only take half of the offered reward, if you actually find her and can take me to her I am willing to do this job for free" The rogue offered his terms and awaited the self proclaimed information broker's reply.
"And yes there aren't any other bracelets like this one; I've followed the trail of the craftsman's apprentice who made it, apparently this is the only bracelet he ever made, he took up smithing weaponry" He added, as he was used to the usual reply of "there could be a number of girls wearing similar bracelets" he got from people he showed the bracelet to.
"We'll I don't see ya carrin a crossbow so I don't know what yer gettin trigger happy with. And that other stuff about water I don't get either. But you seem a good kid anyway. As for yer other question I had a tavern for a bit. Turns out I like the product too much! Then I joined up as a cleric of Caiden. Worshiping him IS drinking, and helping those that can't help themselves. I like one about as much as the other"
"Oh. Yes. Well. You'll see. Maybe. If we ever get in a fight. That'd be nice. Always invigorating."
Should I have said that? Sounds a little sadistic. Oh well. Too late now. Just have to remember not to shoot him. Shouldn't be too hard.
For now though I have the opportunity to sit back and watch. It's one of my more favorite activities. There's usually a pattern, a rhythm that can be found. It's always good to be able to make accurate projections of future occurrences. Increases efficiency.
I lean back, the fire warming my back, and let it all wash over me.
So. Already being volunteered to do a job. Ah well. No other idea where to start.
Ronan. Nearly unlimited resources and powerful allies? Then why only middle district?
Possibility: exaggeration of capabilities.
Possibility: seeking something specifically in middle district.
Possibility: taking uncontested territory while bigger powers wear themselves out. Set self up for easy coup de gras.
Problem at hand though. Focus. Secure alliance.
Possibility: has resources and allies, but no intel. If true, makes negotiation relatively simple.
I spend the next few minutes running through various scenarios in my head. Biggest obstacle, at least at the moment, is the sheer number of unknowns. I debate the merits of interrupting their conversation vs not doing so, and eventually decide to wait. No need to rush things. And this way I don't have to actually try and speak to anyone. Ideal. I have plenty of things to think about now. This place is already proving to be most interesting.
Kyras takes the time to discretely make the other members of the party aware of the man in the black cloak and the fact that the Raul is now in deep conversation with him.
"Thank you kindly Thran, for the drink, but I wish to make sure the rogue is not getting us into something I disagree with"
Kayras takes a seat within earshot of the stranger and sips his beer very slowly. It's not a drink that agrees with his half-elf body, however he has learned that to refuse is considered rude.
As Raul appears to be coming to an agreement Kyras approaches his the table.
"Excuse me..." Kyras stop's himself from calling the man stranger "Sir... A word with my friend, alone, if you don't mind."
When he gets Raul alone
"Friend Raul, I believe that any agreement that you are making on behalf of the group should be discussed with them... Us..." he glances at The Stranger "In Confidence perhaps. It is only polite, no?"
He does not lack confidence, but Kyras is clearly not used to talking to people in a friendly manner. Indeed it seems he is not used to talking to people at all.
"Of course, that is what I intended to do" Said Raul as they talked hopefully out of earshot of the hooded stranger "I realize that from listening to the conversation you would think that I would agree on behalf of the group, and I don't blame you for doubting me" continued the rogue, honestly not bothered by the barbs of doubt that were thrown his way, their sting was not a strange sensation.
"I was merely discussing a personal matter with the man.." He stopped short, unwilling divulge any further details, the others have probably heard most of the proposal anyway, it was his fault for not trying to be discreet "He offered his help in resolving the matter, should we accept his proposal" He finished, his voice slowly regaining its calm and confidence as he distanced himself from the subject of his quest.
"Shall we gather the group and see what they have to say?" He asked as he looked at the common room, and awaited the answer of Kyras.
"Indeed we should" Kyras nodded.
"My concern is this. I have no problem in helping these two men find each-other, but the moment we are asked to help a 'warlord' to 'carve out a territory'..." Kyras struggled for the words "I have no will to be the tool of evil men."
"I understand your concern, and I would honestly be happier to work for men with less dubious reputations" Spoke Raul, trying to calm the half-elven ranger, who seemed flustered by the mere possibility of being involved with a warlord "Our job is to simply have these men meet and hopefully engage in business with each other" He continued as he walked with Kryas to the fire place where two of their companions were resting at.
"Convincing this warlord that he needs this Brack person won't necessarily mean that we will become his lapdogs, there is more than one way to make someone think they need the services of another" Said Raul, his voice calm and confident, it almost felt like he was talking about something he has done before "And not all of these ways will be beneficial to this warlord" He spoke that last in a voice that was only loud enough for his friends to hear.
Thran thinks to himself, these young men seem very worried and overly cautious. I am more of a man of action, but that has gotten me into trouble over the years...
When his companions come over Thran stops singing and quickly sobers up. As he has not had much at all to drink...
"I came back to this city to help its people. The way I see it I can't help until I get involved. Lets do what the guy wants to a point. We are smart enough to know good from evil and we can change plans and or sides when that time comes. We sure can't help if we just sit in this tavern and talk all night."
"I agree with you in all things, friend Raul. It is good that I could discuss my concerns with you" Kyras felt calmed "On the other hand we should keep in mind that 'warlord' and 'carve out a territory' are only words. We have seen nothing to prove that these men are either good or evil..."
Kyras glances over his shoulder as he approaches the group
"Although it is difficult not to judge this 'The Stranger' by how he looks and how he speaks"
"I came back to this city to help its people. The way I see it I can't help until I get involved. Lets do what the guy wants to a point. We are smart enough to know good from evil and we can change plans and or sides when that time comes. We sure can't help if we just sit in this tavern and talk all night."
"It is exactly as you say Thran, our options are many, but nonetheless we should be wary of what we choose to do" Raul agreed with the older man, feeling a small pang of guilt for having much more selfish reasons for wanting to accept the offer of Brack. The red haired rogue looked around himself "I seem to remember a dwarf traveling with us to this town, where is he now?"
"I came back to this city to help its people. The way I see it I can't help until I get involved. Lets do what the guy wants to a point. We are smart enough to know good from evil and we can change plans and or sides when that time comes. We sure can't help if we just sit in this tavern and talk all night.""It is exactly as you say Thran, our options are many, but nonetheless we should be wary of what we choose to do" Raul agreed with the older man, feeling a small pang of guilt for having much more selfish reasons for wanting to accept the offer of Brack. The red haired rogue looked around himself "I seem to remember a dwarf traveling with us to this town, where is he now?"
Dworkin was busy warming himself by the fire and reviewing his wares for water damage.
He turns around.
"You can count me if there is a profit in it." He says. "It seems the rain damaged some of my items and I will need some additional capital for new wares."
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I believe Raul asked earlier how much water costs. My prices are preset. All drinks listed are price per pint
Water (Good old H2O) - 5cp
Grog (a cheap form of ale) - 2sp, 5cp
Ale (Classic medieval bar drink) - 5sp
Wine (It's just wine) - 1gp
Fine wine (For expensive parties) - 5gp
Your average poor farmer makes (if he's lucky) 2gp/day.
An average guard's/man-at-arms's salary is 5gp/day.
I ponder quietly as the others discuss what they should do. What we should do. Teamwork, group dynamics. All new things to me. Will have to adjust. Hmmm...
"Well... I guess... it couldn't hurt. I mean, like you said. We can change our mind. Or do whatever. Gives me the chance to learn more about this place anyway. So, that is to say, I'm amiable towards reconnaissance. If that's all it's going to be," I say.
Urban environment. New terrain. Lots to learn. Never scouted in this kind of territory before. Nervous, but a little bit excited. New things are always exciting. I smile faintly.
"Raul lets tell him we accept his job. You take the lead as you have two have spoken already"
"If you insist" Raul looked back to the hooded man and walked towards him at a slow pace, hoping that his companions were at his side "We have agreed to take on your request Brack, only if the reward is worth while of course" Said Raul as he took the seat he had been in before.
"So not counting my personal deal with you what can you offer this group for helping you with your business with this so called warlord?" Inquired the rogue as he kept his eyes on the shadow covered face of the cloaked stranger.
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Note: This is Brack's starting offer. He may come up a bit if you give ample reasoning.
Also, it may not sound like a lot now, but this guy is seriously packing a lot of money. To be able to freely shell out 200 gp when you're a non-adventurer typically involves having some high position in society.
Kyras hangs to the back listening to the others negotiate price with the black-robed man. When that part is completed he will ask about the mission
"What can you tell us about this warlord Ronan? His looks? How he dresses? His movements and activities? His last known location? Anything that can help us track and find him.”
”Another thing. How do you suggest we convince him to see you as an ally. We can hardly speak for your character, you’re a stranger to us”
"Forty gold seems rather low. If your hiring 5 armed men for this task you must be expecting us to run into trouble. Not to mention how many palms we will have to grease to see this guy. What can you do to sweeten the pot?"
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"50 is the highest I feel comfortable handing over. You have to understand that we've never worked together before, and I don't know how well you will end up doing. I'll give you half now, and the other half after you've completed the task."
He's giving the group as a whole 250 now. As lower level characters you can't expect huge profit right off the bat. I'd say you should accept his offer. He may get slightly agitated if you want him to rack it up more.
"Shall we confer together for a minute?" Dworkin says, gesturing to his fellow travellers.
Once closer together, he whispers: "This sounds good to me. I say we take it. I'll need a portion for some alchemy supplies."
"Hell I'd have taken half that!" Thran says to the party out of ear shot of there new employer. "Nothing ventured nothing gained, right?"
"The deal is fine with me" Whispers the red haired young man, as he takes a quick glance at their possible future employer with the back of his eye "Kyras? Roland?" He looks to the two half-elves and awaits their reply I hope he is as good of an information broker as he lets off he is Thought the rogue, the sound of the rain outside still filling his his ears.
"Well, as that would more than double my current funds, I'm decidedly in favor," I whisper to the group. Maybe I can finally buy some more ammo. Possibly acquire some new spells. Well. Maybe shouldn't be that optimistic. We'll see.
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As you all decide on the final price, Roland (since Raul is intent on discussions with The Stranger) can't help but notice someone new enter the inn out of the corner of his eye. I'll need a perception check from Roland only if he wishes to take a closer look at the individual without making it obvious.
Note: You all probably should make a lot more checks, especially on this campaign. There are a lot of subtle clues as to offshoots in the story around the city.
"I will follow your judgement, friends." Kyras knowing his skills do not lie in human interaction takes a happy back seat in the discussion, at least until it comes to discussing how to find the warlord.
"I will follow your judgement, friends." Kyras knowing his skills do not lie in human interaction takes a happy back seat in the discussion, at least until it comes to discussing how to find the warlord.
Dworkin takes a step toward Brack. "It seems we are all in agreement to take this offer," he says, "Is there anything else you need to tell us before we start?"
Dworkin tries to determine if Brack is concealing information.
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Brack is not withholding information from what you can tell. He merely turns to Dworkin saying, "Not really."
Roland notices the Half-Elf guard from the gate, the one who rote down names on piece of parchment. He looks as if he is looking for something himself.
Sorry for the long wait. My computer is having problems, and i'm stuck using my brother's laptop for now.
Fire is nice. Clothes drying. I shift my ammo pouch a little farther away from the fire. The others are busy negotiating with Brack, but I can hear them easily over the quiet din of the room. My eyes slide over the room. Clockwise. Bar, stairs, window, door, window, tables, and repeat. It's all about the pattern. Easy place to observe. Small, enclosed.
Third time through the scribe from the gate walks in, glancing around. Appears to be searching. Inefficient eye movements, darting glances rather than deliberate sweeps. Should I tell him about Grover's search algorithm? Less accurate than the Deutsch–Jozsa algorithm, true, but also much less complicated, and thusly quicker. He seems to favor quickness over thoroughness. Hmmm... wonder what he's searching for? Constrain to possibilities dealing with self and group.
Possibility: warning about potential repeat of altercation at gate.
Possibility: delivering message.
Possibility: spying on us.
Possibility: assassination.
I run through a few more possibilities that aren't likely enough to bother calculating. Hmmm... alert allies? Negligible probability of undesirable action/reaction. Give chance to work on group dynamics. Best to alert Raul or Kyras. Most likely to involve them. Interrupt negotiations? Acceptable, seem to be finished/dying down anyway.
I walk over to the group and tap Raul on the shoulder, whispering.
"Scribe from gate at door. Likely to do with us. Thought you ought to know."
I helped. Hopefully. Don't preempt. Observe. Focus.
"You there," Dworkin calls out to the scribe in the friendliest voice he can muster, "Are you looking for us?"
"Then I guess we are all--" Raul stopped short when he felt a tap on his shoulder he looked back and he saw Roland.
"Scribe from gate at door. Likely to do with us. Thought you ought to know."[/b]
The red haired rogue immediately shifts his eyes to the door, recognizing the half-elven guard who was writing down their names, many possibilities ran through Raul's mind, some were bad and some were good, but he knew one thing, he could not risk this deal going sour.
"thank you, I'll find out why he's here" Replied the rogue, his words equally low in volume I am going to need someone to help me out, just in case the guard is planning on being unfriendly the rogue looked through his friends and noticed that Kryas was simply waiting for the negotiations to end, his hand snaked its way to his shoulder and he tapped it.
"I think I am going to need your help" He whispered then he motioned towards the guard with his eyes.
"Stay with Brack, if the deal is to your liking agree, Kryas and I are going to discuss something with that guard" He whispered to the group, as he moved towards the guard at a normal pace, hoping not to get him nervous.
It was only then that he noticed Dworkin call out to him Well I guess a direct confrontation could help Thought the rogue.
"What can you tell us about this warlord Ronan? His looks? How he dresses? His movements and activities? His last known location? Anything that can help us track and find him.”
”Another thing. How do you suggest we convince him to see you as an ally. We can hardly speak for your character, you’re a stranger to us”
So as not to be to obvious Kyras doesn't look straight away. Instead his response is based on trust
"I will follow your lead, friend Raul"It's only when he turns to follow Raul that Kyras's eyes find the guard.
"Hello, you were one the guards at the gate, yes?" Said Raul when he was within reasonable range of the guard, hoping to draw his attention from the rest of his group.
"Is there anything we can help you with?" Asked the rogue, his calm demeanor affecting every word he utters. Despite the calmness of his voice Raul was still worried about what could the guard want, he just hoped that whatever it was it didn't concern them...or Brack for that matter, it isn't everyday that he meets information broker's.
What were his options if the guard was going to cause them trouble? That question echoed through his head, killing him was out of the question, he didn't do them any harm and the last thing they'd need is an army of guards chasing them through town Maybe we could convince to walk away or if all else fails knock him out... Raul hoped he wouldn't have to resort to the latter option.
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The Scribe looks over and nods, before moving over to your area. He stops suddenly when he sees Brack, but doesn't make a deal out of it. He simply sizes himself up to Raul before speaking.
"Gate Captain Penn wants to know if you'd be interested in meeting with him down here tomorrow morning. He'd like to give you the full rundown on the state of the city. Seems to trust you."
Brack has not answered Kyras's questions about Ronan, likely because he doesn't know the answers himself.
"Just Raul, or all of us?" Dworkin asks.