The fight over, you stand on a deck covered in blood and littered with bodies. The barge itself seems undamaged. There are five corpses in total: three of them are Humans (a man and a woman in their mid-twenties and a man in his forties) and the other two are mutants. One has a skull face and eyestalks, the other has bird's legs, a furry tail, and a single eye on the end of its nose.
A search of the bodies will reveal: 2 Mail Coats (which will fit two of the adventurers), 2 Mail Coifs, 3 Swords (one broken), 1 Crossbow and 13 Bolts, 4 Daggers, 2 Clubs, and a total of 30 shillings in mixed coinage.
Do you want to venture below deck?
Valghaz watched as the mutant flew away. With a slight smirk he yelled out after her "Then remember the name Gotrek Gurnisson!" He had read one of the penny dreadfuls that was being sold about a slayer by the name of Gotrek. Apparently the dwarf had slaughtered his way from Karak Eight Peaks all the way to the Chaos Wastes and back, killing everything in his way. It was cheap, sensational and completely unrealistic. Though, he supposed, it was only proper for the hack of the an author to be so enamored with dwarven might as to have made up such tales. He figured that if the mutant wanted revenge on someone, let her hunt for the mythical slayer. If nothing else, he found the idea amusing.
Calmly he began searching the bodies, and his eyes went wide at the loot. "Ha! Look at this, mail coats! Complete with coifs! Bloody well amazing this is." He said, as he kicked the skull faced corpse into the river.
I'm sure you should find a talented and honorable...
Adelaida searched her memory for a few seconds
Dawi artisan able to cut the mail to your size, Brother. I'm not sure I would fit in one either, if that is a consolation to you. That warhammer is heavy, I have yet to test it in battle, I'm so much more used to my sword, which is way lighter... I hope soon to witness its impact on the foes of the Empire.
She smiles at the dwarf
As far as I remember, your name is Valghaz Ironhammer, no? So who is that Gotrek you spoke about, if you don't mind my curiosity? Probably an hero of your kin?
"Dawi, eh? Ye've got a good head. Here, keep it protected." Valghaz broke into a laugh as he tossed one of the mail coifs at Adelaia. "A for this Gotrek? Doesn't exist! Ha! Some umgi poet is publishing tales about him. Of how this slayer has slaughtered mutated trolls beneath Vala-Azril-Ungol and freed the souls of the dwarven dead, of how he's killed vampire lords, scattered beastmen herds, and even faced a greater daemon in the chaos wastes. Absurd!" He chuckled, an all-together unfamiliar sound coming from him. "Figure that if she's so keen on hunting me down, then perhaps she'd have fun tracking him." Then, with an all-together more serious voice he muttered "Didn't lie though. Just implied it." Suddenly aware that it might seem dishonorable what he had done. He made the sign of Grungni over his chest as he did so.
Oh, you didn't "lie", because it never, directly or indirectly, asked you your name. You just told her to remember the name of Gotrek. If it believes its your name, the mistake is owned by the creature. Maybe it not only has the body of a bird, but its brain too?
Adelaida seems in good humor too
Ruprecht lets out a long breath as the immediate danger passes, joining Valghaz in evaluating the metal riches found on the dead bodies, a most fortunate find , indeed! he exclaims.
As the conversation turns to literature, Ruprecht offers, "I've heard of these stories. It so happens the author, one Willhelm Rex, was hunted down by a true Trollslayer who beheaded the writer in one fell swoop in a tavern in Aldorf. Spreading falsehoods and some such , I believe!
Ruprecht casts his now practices Boatman's eye over the now captured barge, evaluating its river-worthiness and possible value.
Then his eye finds the hatch allowing access to the hold, "Shall we see what cargo lays within?
Then he spies the body of one of the mutants floating nearby in the water, and he's overcome with a case of the shivers so violent he drops the mail coif he was holding.
After a moment the spell passes, and he wipes the sheen of sweat that had erupted on his forehead.
Ruprecht lets out a long breath as the immediate danger passes, joining Valghaz in evaluating the metal riches found on the dead bodies, a most fortunate find , indeed! he exclaims.
As the conversation turns to literature, Ruprecht offers, "I've heard of these stories. It so happens the author, one Willhelm Rex, was hunted down by a true Trollslayer who beheaded the writer in one fell swoop in a tavern in Aldorf. Spreading falsehoods and some such , I believe!
Ruprecht casts his now practices Boatman's eye over the now captured barge, evaluating its river-worthiness and possible value.
Then his eye finds the hatch allowing access to the hold, "Shall we see what cargo lays within?
[dice=Cool:35+20]1d100
Then he spies the body of one of the mutants floating nearby in the water, and he's overcome with a case of the shivers so violent he drops the mail coif he was holding.
After a moment the spell passes, and he wipes the sheen of sweat that had erupted on his forehead.
As you search the boat, you hear the sound of muffled shouting coming from the hold. Searching the hold, you find many sacks of wool and 10 crates. The shouting is coming from one of the crates. Opening it up, you find a female human bound hand and foot with rope and a gag around her mouth. Someone has crudely scrawled something on a piece of parchment and stuck it next to the women
There are, if anyone wants to count them, 75 sacks of wool in total, each the equivalent of 3 Encumbrance Points.
.
Once the barge is secure, Josef comes over to look around. He shakes his head in wonder and then says, ”of all the luck, I had to pay for my barge.” When you ask him what he means, he explains that normal practice on the river is to take over a salvaged boat and work it until any next of kin can be traced, keeping any profits as salvage fees. It's not uncommon for the next of kin to pay a reward too, if they are traced.
It seems you have now acquired a boat, a cargo, and a passenger. Josef brings over a bottle of wine to toast your luck and then bids you a fond, and moderately alcoholic, farewell. ”Look me up in Weissbruck! The Berebeli will be there for a day or two. I can find you someone who’ll buy that wool from you.”
Ruprecht starts a bit when their search reveals the young woman. He snatches the note and read aloud, "Dinner meat...how droll..."
He removes the woman's gag, and gets to work on her bindings, "Well, looks like you're lucky we cam a long, lass. Those beasts were going to have you for dinner , it seems."
He helps her to her feet, and introduces himself, "Ruprecht Scheinfelder, of the Black Thorns....at your service!"
Later, Ruprecht will pull Josef aside before he leaves, "Do you think I'm ready, Josef....to help sail this boat?"
Later still, he looks about the boat for any evidence of the previous owner's identities.
”Landolf Gersun von Ubersreik, also of the Black Thorns,” Landolf introduces himself to the recently rescued woman. ”Those foul cretins are gone now, or run through. I'm...sorry if anyone else on the barge was close to you. Is there a port to which you were bound?”
After discussing the disposition of the salvaged barge with Josef, Landolf goes to check the non-mutated corpses still on deck. The chances weren't good, but with a bit of luck there might be something to identify the previous owners.
As Josef departs, Landolf will suggest making a pyre to burn away the mutant corpses. Whether found by others or left to be eaten by animals, no one needs their tainted flesh around. The others, they can bury properly.
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After learning that the Black Thorns would be taking possession of another barge, Yvonne gathered together Landolf's remaining gear along with her own and moved it to the new ship.
"Good to see no one is badly hurt," she seems unsure whether to happy about this profitable new development given the recent battle.
Krizta blinks, trying to adjust to the light after being released from the dark, cramped box.
When she is ungagged she manages
Thank you Ruprecht. My name is Krizta. Do you happen to have some water?
Responding to Landolf she says
I was on my way to Altdorf, but apparently Sigmar wanted me elsewhere. I had no family on board, but I had the opportunity to pray with the family that owns the barge when I first came aboard. The Segels, Fritz, Albrecht, and Heidi. Then those... strange creatures attacked and I suppose I was knocked unconscious. When I came to, I was bound in there.
She indicates the box.
As she looks that way, she spots her flail flung into a corner, and goes to retrieve it. As she moves you can clearly see that her tattered robes are not just that way because of any harsh treatment. This woman, though seemingly well-spoken, is wearing clothing you feel sure that only a beggar would wear.
Later, after she has identified the bodies and the team is discussing what to do with the cargo, she mentions that she believes the cargo in the hold belonged to the Segels rather than being a contract load.
I am Adelaida Lehner. I serve Sigmar and the Empire.
The woman has short dark hair, brown eyes and is solidly build. She wears a boiled leather breastplate, and has a sheated sword by her side. Her main weapon is a warhammer.
Everything in her posture screams someone with a military background.
Nevertheless, she smiles kindly at the newcomer, and looks around for some water
Ruprecht starts a bit when their search reveals the young woman. He snatches the note and read aloud, "Dinner meat...how droll..."
He removes the woman's gag, and gets to work on her bindings, "Well, looks like you're lucky we cam a long, lass. Those beasts were going to have you for dinner , it seems."
He helps her to her feet, and introduces himself, "Ruprecht Scheinfelder, of the Black Thorns....at your service!"
Later, Ruprecht will pull Josef aside before he leaves, "Do you think I'm ready, Josef....to help sail this boat?"
Later still, he looks about the boat for any evidence of the previous owner's identities.
Josef pulls Ruprecht aside before the Berebeli gets underway for a quiet word, ”I’ve known you for a long time son and believe me when I tell you that you’re ready not to just help, but you’re ready to captain this barge. Don’t mean you won’t have trouble, everyone on these crazy rivers has trouble but you can handle whatever comes your way. Remember, come find me in Weissbruck.”
Searching the barge fails to turn up any documentation about the owners or their kinfolk.
[dice=Cool vs Corruption 45 +20]1d100
”Landolf Gersun von Ubersreik, also of the Black Thorns,” Landolf introduces himself to the recently rescued woman. ”Those foul cretins are gone now, or run through. I'm...sorry if anyone else on the barge was close to you. Is there a port to which you were bound?”
After discussing the disposition of the salvaged barge with Josef, Landolf goes to check the non-mutated corpses still on deck. The chances weren't good, but with a bit of luck there might be something to identify the previous owners.
As Josef departs, Landolf will suggest making a pyre to burn away the mutant corpses. Whether found by others or left to be eaten by animals, no one needs their tainted flesh around. The others, they can bury properly.
It takes an afternoon of hard labor to get the bodies moved on shore and dealt with. Gathering dried wood near the Bogen is difficult but after hours of looking through the area around the river you manage to find enough wood for a large bonfire.
Digging graves in the soft dirt by the river is in contrast an easy task but very messy. You all are covered in mud and blood by the time the task is finished.
As night falls, you are greeted by the warm glow of Mannslieb and no sign whatsoever of the evil moon, Moorslieb. Being well taught by Josef you anchor in the Bogen and keep a watch on deck during the night.
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Krizta blinks, trying to adjust to the light after being released from the dark, cramped box.
When she is ungagged she manages
Thank you Ruprecht. My name is Krizta. Do you happen to have some water?
Responding to Landolf she says
I was on my way to Altdorf, but apparently Sigmar wanted me elsewhere. I had no family on board, but I had the opportunity to pray with the family that owns the barge when I first came aboard. The Segels, Fritz, Albrecht, and Heidi. Then those... strange creatures attacked and I suppose I was knocked unconscious. When I came to, I was bound in there.
She indicates the box.
As she looks that way, she spots her flail flung into a corner, and goes to retrieve it. As she moves you can clearly see that her tattered robes are not just that way because of any harsh treatment. This woman, though seemingly well-spoken, is wearing clothing you feel sure that only a beggar would wear.
Later, after she has identified the bodies and the team is discussing what to do with the cargo, she mentions that she believes the cargo in the hold belonged to the Segels rather than being a contract load.
Valghaz had initially tried to keep some distance to the rescued woman, for he couldn’t stand tears and was certain that there would be a plethora of them. To his great surprise she had kept herself together and had pulled her weight. He pulled Landolf, Adelaida and Ruprecht aside.
”Y’know, mayhaps we should give the lass a job offer? Our company could use another flail, and if she can keep it together after this, then she can probably handle the mess that we usually get ourselves into.”
I am Adelaida Lehner. I serve Sigmar and the Empire.
Oh, I am so glad. I serve Sigmar as well, although I think I am often a disappointment to him. I feel sure that he meant for us to meet. Is there any way I can help?
When Valghaz suggests a job, Krizta says
... I don't know if Sigmar wants me to have a job. I will have to pray about it. ... I do feel certain that I am meant to be here for some reason. Perhaps I could agree to join you until Sigmar leads me another way?
*
As the night winds down on the banks of the Bogen, Landolf tries to get the attention of the other Black Thorns. It isn't really his intention to bring Krizta into their problems but the Lucky Lady is not a very big ship.
"It's probably time to start making plans. We left Bogenhafen in a hurry and I've been enjoying not thinking about much since but we'll need to decide what we're doing now. We need to get Valghaz back to Altdorf and I have some errands to run there, but no immediate plans after that. What do you think?"
I am no merchant. But going to Altdorf first make sense, as Valghaz needs us there. There is probably a guild of traders where we can find some information (costly information, probably, as they are in for the money) about the major trade routes, the prices of items, and how the system works. If we don't want to become traveling merchant, we could sell the barge for a profit, at least, or maybe give it to the Emperor's fleet so the riverwardens can use it.
Krizta doesn't contribute to the conversation about goals for the party, since she still doesn't understand why Sigmar has brought her here... unless, ... unless he wanted her to earn money now, so she could serve him in bigger ways? When she had a moment she explained to the others that she needed to pray privately for guidance, and ducked back into the storeroom where she had been imprisoned, closing the door and taking off her robes, and then she proceeded to beat herself ritually with her flail, trying to cleanse herself and find Sigmar's will through the purifying pain.
Later, she nods when she is asked to take a turn on watch, glad for the fresh scabs on her back that she can still feel rubbing against the cloth of her robes. Sigmar was always easier to hear when she had this kind of clarity.
With the night coming and the danger passed, Valghaz looked for anything resembling alcohol to drink. He was feeling good. They had slaughtered mutants, and in doing so he had finally gotten some real armor! It would need to be adjusted, of course, but it felt good to have more than just leather on his shoulders. Not only that, but they were heading to Altdorf on their own barge, with trade goods, and there he was finally going to be on the path towards respectability. It all seemed almost too good to be true.
As usual, he was not all that aware of his surroundings. Rather, he was too focused on thoughts of what they had accomplished and what was yet to come. He couldn't help but think of seeing Altdorf again, it's spires rising in the distance, beckoning him. He prayed to the Ancestors for them to smile upon him, for he did not yet know why he had been called. He hoped that it was to be inducted into the Order, for doing so would mean that when he returned to Karak Azgaraz, it would be with head held up high. But he feared, given on how they had left Bogenhafen wanted for arson and murder, that it was to give an account of his actions lest he be found...wanting. Not knowing what awaited him made it hard to sit put, a problem when on a barge.
It's a quiet first trip on the Lucky Lady as you travel with down the Bogen and with a fresh breeze that keeps the mainsail filled. You sail in daylight and anchor in the river before dark. Occasionally you hear what sounds like the hooting language of the beastmen but if they are indeed out there in the forest they never come to the shoreline as far as you can tell.
On Day 3 of the voyage you spot a headland looming over the river that seems hauntingly familiar. You slowly sail past the burned out ferry house and spot the burned remnants of the Hooded Man Inn on the cliff overlooking the river. You almost can smell a taint of Chaos that seems to cling to the area.
After six days of sailing, you spot Weissbruck on the north bank of the Bogen and looming past it the lock that leads into the Weissbruck Canal. As usual the docks are teeming with riverwomen and men who roam from tavern to tavern that line the docks.
Common Knowledge About Weissbruck
Weissbruck is a swiftly growing town on the River Bögen. It is ruled by the recently ennobled House Gruber, a family that may be rich because of its deep mines in the Skaag Hills, but has little in the way of status. Less than a century ago, Wiessbruck was just another small farming and fishing village, but with the opening of the nearby mines and the construction of the canal it has expanded rapidly. It is now a bustling merchant town, and the sound of construction rings everywhere as new buildings expand the outskirts to all sides. Warehouses line the canal and river banks, storing coal and iron ore from the nearby mines, wool and wine from Bögenhafen, and all manner of goods from Altdorf, Carroburg, and the Vorbergland Canals.
It must be a thrill as you spot your old home, the Berebeli, tied up to the docks in front of the Black Gold Tavern. Gilda Gratz stands at the stern of the barge holding Elsa and both are waving happily at you. Elsa seems particularly thrilled to spot Valghaz aboard the Lucky Lady.
Wolmar Gratz waits on the docks as Ruprecht handles docking a river barge for the first time without Josef coaching him. There's a loud scraping sound as the Lucky Lady jolts along the edge of the dock before settling into position behind the Berebeli. Wolmar catches the lines as you throw them over and gets you tied securely to the dock. With a smile on his face, Wolmar calls out "Welcome to Weissbruck everyone!" He lets you know that Josef is waiting for you at the Black Gold Tavern.
You're stopped by a couple of pedlars on your way to the tavern. They seem friendly enough and start explaining what boating supplies they have on hand for a discount. While one of the pedlars carries on with a normal sales pitch, the other scratches the right-hand side of his nose with the little finger of his left hand while inserting the thumb of his right hand into his right ear, palm to the front and the fingers fully extended.
Seeing Gilda and Elzsa, Valghaz waved to them, a smile on his face. It was indeed good to see them again, especially given the circumstances.
As the barge docked, and the group made their way to the Black Gold Tavern, Valghaz kept a wide berth from the peddlars and kept his hand firmly on his coin purse, lest they try to steal it. Life was going far too well for disaster to strike now. He gave them a look designed to say 'stay well away, I'm not interested.'
Unfortunately all it served to do was make eye contact with them.
Seeing Gilda and Elzsa, Valghaz waved to them, a smile on his face. It was indeed good to see them again, especially given the circumstances.
As the barge docked, and the group made their way to the Black Gold Tavern, Valghaz kept a wide berth from the peddlars and kept his hand firmly on his coin purse, lest they try to steal it. Life was going far too well for disaster to strike now. He gave them a look designed to say 'stay well away, I'm not interested.'
[dice=Intimidate 51]1d100
Unfortunately all it served to do was make eye contact with them.
The pedlars smile and nod at the surprisingly pleasant dwarf and one restarts his sales patter. His partner begins his odd act again and scratches the right-hand side of his nose with the little finger of his left hand while inserting the thumb of his right hand into his right ear, palm to the front and the fingers fully extended. He looks at all of you expectantly.
Over the days of sailing, Landolf outlines his thoughts. ”I'm having a difficult time accepting that our names are being dragged through the mud yet again over a false accusation. This is Ubersreik all over again, notwithstanding the fact that we departed from Bogenhafen. If we're united in this, I think we should do what we can to lay out our side of the story to those that might still listen to us in Bogenhafen.”
”Beyond that, we should see that this communication we received from Teugen arrives in the appropriate hands. His letter from this Etelka Herzen, whoever she might be, suggests that his perfidy in Bogenhafen may not be an isolated incident. Perhaps he is only the first of many that will seek to enact their dark rites in the cities of the Empire.”
”I'd propose that we use our stop in Weissbruck to make our case to the Cult of Sigmar in the city. They are best positioned to see about this Etelka Herzen, and they will have interest in our side of the story about the events in Bogenhafen. Assuming they find us credible, we can ask them to contact the dignitaries of Bogenhafen in our behalf. Even if the civic authorities there resist our explanation, we deserve a hearing with Captain Gellor. Heinrich Steinhager may also be willing to listen. Hopefully others.”
*
Later at the Weissbruck docks, Landolf was eager to attend the reunion with Josef and return to what he hoped would be something like normalcy, despite their impending errands. The oddly-behaving pedlar caught his eye however, and he groaned inwardly.
This nonsense is what happened when we got into trouble with that bounty hunter. Ignoring it didn't work last time...
Cringing, he nonetheless imitated the man's ridiculous gesture.
Adelaida is happy to see friendly faces, and a rare, genuine smile appears on her lips. She helps secure the boat while chatting about their maiden sailing.
Soon, she asks around about a potential spiritual place to worship Sigmar in the small town, before the strange duo of peddlars gets in their way
There is something odd in this man's act.. these precise gestures...It's too calculated to be spontaneous.
She tries to recall if she has ever seen something like that, as Landolf mimics the pantomime
But she is as baffled as everyone else to pinpoint any memory
Over the days of sailing, Landolf outlines his thoughts. ”I'm having a difficult time accepting that our names are being dragged through the mud yet again over a false accusation. This is Ubersreik all over again, notwithstanding the fact that we departed from Bogenhafen. If we're united in this, I think we should do what we can to lay out our side of the story to those that might still listen to us in Bogenhafen.”
”Beyond that, we should see that this communication we received from Teugen arrives in the appropriate hands. His letter from this Etelka Herzen, whoever she might be, suggests that his perfidy in Bogenhafen may not be an isolated incident. Perhaps he is only the first of many that will seek to enact their dark rites in the cities of the Empire.”
”I'd propose that we use our stop in Weissbruck to make our case to the Cult of Sigmar in the city. They are best positioned to see about this Etelka Herzen, and they will have interest in our side of the story about the events in Bogenhafen. Assuming they find us credible, we can ask them to contact the dignitaries of Bogenhafen in our behalf. Even if the civic authorities there resist our explanation, we deserve a hearing with Captain Gellor. Heinrich Steinhager may also be willing to listen. Hopefully others.”
*
Later at the Weissbruck docks, Landolf was eager to attend the reunion with Josef and return to what he hoped would be something like normalcy, despite their impending errands. The oddly-behaving pedlar caught his eye however, and he groaned inwardly.
This nonsense is what happened when we got into trouble with that bounty hunter. Ignoring it didn't work last time...
Cringing, he nonetheless imitated the man's ridiculous gesture.
Once Landolf imitates the oddly gesturing pedlar, both men wink knowingly, and the one who had been making the sales pitch holds out his right hand to shake hands which Landolf does automatically. It turns out the man's palm is coated with purple ink, and after the handshake, the two pedlars quickly disappear into the crowd roaming the docks leaving Landolf with a purple ink covered palm.
Adelaida is happy to see friendly faces, and a rare, genuine smile appears on her lips. She helps secure the boat while chatting about their maiden sailing.
Soon, she asks around about a potential spiritual place to worship Sigmar in the small town, before the strange duo of peddlars gets in their way
There is something odd in this man's act.. these precise gestures...It's too calculated to be spontaneous.
She tries to recall if she has ever seen something like that, as Landolf mimics the pantomime
[dice=Int check? (31)]1d100
But she is as baffled as everyone else to pinpoint any memory
It is easy to get directions to the local temple of Sigmar which is located only a couple of blocks away from the docks.
A short walk from the docks is the central square of Weissbruck. There is a small humble wooden temple dedicated to Sigmar which is topped by the familiar holy comet symbol. However, next door a new temple is under construction. The wealth that flows into Weissbruck is obviously being used to construct a new impressive temple. In fact it looks like it will be a smaller version of the High Temple in Altdorf complete with a golden dome that towers over the central square. The dome gleams in the sun even though there are sections that lack the gold leaf. Workmen swarm over the dome busily applying gold leaf which other workmen and artisans work to carve the facades of the temple with depictions of great moments in the mortal life of Sigmar. Giving the size of the facades it will likely be the grand or great-grand children of the workers that finally complete the great work.
Besides the Sigmar temple complex, the central square contains a town hall that is also being renovated and enlarged. There's a temple of Verena which also seems to double as the courthouse. There's also another temple building that seem to be shared by Taal and Rhyla. There's a brand new hospital that is also the temple of Shallya. Finally, the merchant guild headquarters vies with town hall and the new temple of Sigmar as the largest and most ornate buildings in town.
Seeing the strange handshake, which left the ink on Landolf's palm, Valghaz raised an eye. As the men left he looked at the noble and said "That some kind of merchant thing?"
As Adelaida (and he presumed Krizta) went to the temple, Valghaz went off to get his armor adjusted. While it was possible to wear it, he wanted to look good for when he got to Altdorf. Granted, he did not have much when it came to money, but he hoped that he would be able to cover it without dipping into company funds.
Landolf stares at his now-inked hand for a moment before shaking his head. "No, it isn't a normal thing Valghaz. You remember those men back in Altdorf who kept touching their noses, right? They wanted us to do...something. We never did figure out what that lot was up to: I'd assumed that they were part of the fake-Talther group or tied in with that bounty hunter somehow. But we aren't done with them it seems. I'm tired of their games and decided to play along. Maybe we can get some answers this way."
"Enough with the pedlars, though. We shouldn't keep Josef waiting."
*
Not sure who the people were that Landolf was talking about, Krizta drifted towards the small wooden temple to Sigmar.
Kneeling inside with her face touching the ground, she asks for help to know his will, and where to go from here. After her brief prayer, she found herself thinking about the people she had been traveling with, so she returned and reattached herself to the group, wondering who Josef was and interested to learn more about the future that Sigmar had set before her.
Adelaida was in the temple of Sigmar, too, and prays the protector of the Empire with fervor
Don't be afraid to ask for help, Krizta, if you need. Should we go to the Shallyan to treat your wounds?
[dice=Int check 32]1d100
Seeing the strange handshake, which left the ink on Landolf's palm, Valghaz raised an eye. As the men left he looked at the noble and said "That some kind of merchant thing?"
As Adelaida (and he presumed Krizta) went to the temple, Valghaz went off to get his armor adjusted. While it was possible to wear it, he wanted to look good for when he got to Altdorf. Granted, he did not have much when it came to money, but he hoped that he would be able to cover it without dipping into company funds.
Valghaz roams the city for a while taking in the sites and listening for familiar sounds of a hammer striking an anvil. Not far (though no on realizes it) from Krizta and Adelaida, Valghaz finds what he's looking for in a shop a block away from the town center. It's not a dwarven smith but at least the man has impressively large muscles and seems to have all of the necessary equipment at hand.
Once you explain the problem to him, the smith takes a few quick measurements and does some mental math, "well sir, it's like this, altering the Mail Shirt is not too difficult a problem...I'd do it for 10 shillings if I get to keep the left over links of mail. Otherwise it'd be a crown. Even better though for 2 crowns I can make you a pair of Mail Chausses using the leftover bits from the shirt and some chainmail I have at the shop. It'll take a day to alter the Mail Shirt to fit and then if you want the Mail Chausses that'll take me another day. What'cha think?"
Valghaz was glad to have met the man, and gladly agreed to the offer. Having some skill in metallurgy and smelting, he asked if the price could be somewhat lowered if he joined the smith and aided him in the process. He said, that if nothing else, it would make a good story for how a dwarf had come to him for smithing and had been his second as the man worked his craft. He reasoned that such a sight would do wonders for his business. Many a man would pay good gold for that kind of boon to his name.
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The smith listens with a smile on his face as Valghaz makes his offer to pitch in. "That'd be something sir, you helping me and all, you've got yourself a deal," the smith says happily and then spits on his hand and holds it out to Valghaz for a shake. Valghaz does notice that there's no purple ink on this man's hands, just good callouses from hard-work.
Landolf stares at his now-inked hand for a moment before shaking his head. "No, it isn't a normal thing Valghaz. You remember those men back in Altdorf who kept touching their noses, right? They wanted us to do...something. We never did figure out what that lot was up to: I'd assumed that they were part of the fake-Talther group or tied in with that bounty hunter somehow. But we aren't done with them it seems. I'm tired of their games and decided to play along. Maybe we can get some answers this way."
"Enough with the pedlars, though. We shouldn't keep Josef waiting."
*
[dice=Day 1 Recovery Toughness (Endurance) 40 +20]1d100
You find Josef sitting at a table with an older man who's hair is completely white. The man is well dressed and he and Josef seem to be friends.
"Landolf, Landolf...over here, come join us," Josef says as he motions to Landolf to attract his attention in the crowded tavern. "Landolf this is Herr Waltram Mauss, who in spite of being a greedy merchant who is always trying to cheat me," Josef explains with a smile, "is a friend of mine. I've told him about your salvage of the abandoned barge and your cargo of wool. Waltram says he'll happily take it off your hands." Introductions done, Josef put a shilling on the table to cover the cost of his drinks and stands and adds, "Come find us on the Berebeli tonight. I'll catch you up on what've I heard." With that, Josef give you both a sloppy salute and makes his way from the tavern
After chatting a bit, Waltram makes his offer. "I'll take that wool off your hands for 22 Crowns and 10 Shillings. I promise you'll not do any better than that in Weissbruck. Do we have a deal?"
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Not sure who the people were that Landolf was talking about, Krizta drifted towards the small wooden temple to Sigmar.
Kneeling inside with her face touching the ground, she asks for help to know his will, and where to go from here. After her brief prayer, she found herself thinking about the people she had been traveling with, so she returned and reattached herself to the group, wondering who Josef was and interested to learn more about the future that Sigmar had set before her.
As Krizta makes her way through Weissbruck she is acknowledged by almost everyone she passes as they make the sign of the Hammer. Some seem reverent, some seem frightened and some seem like they just want to make sure not to make the flagellant mad and be accused of being a heretic. Merchants come out of their shops to press food on her and she can take her pick of meats or cheeses or breads or wine or sweets.
Inside the temple she is greeted by a young priest (it seems all the other priests found pressing business that took them away from the temple just before she arrived). "Welcome Holy One. I am Father Theobald Herr and we are honored by your presence. It is unusual for us to see one of the Holy Ones in Weissbruck as most are on the frontiers where the fighting with the cursed greenskins is the thickest. But Sigmar is wise and he clearly has brought you here for a reason," Theobald stops to think for a moment, trying to come up with the reason and then his eyes widen and he says, "our local pharmacist, Elvyra Kleinestun, just returned from the Schaffenfest in Bogenhafen has been kidnapped! If Sigmar brought you to us then this most be more than just a regular crime, there must be something else that hides from view. In Sigmar's name, I ask you to find Elvyra Kleinestun." Theobald of course does not insult Krizta by offering a reward.
Not sure who the people were that Landolf was talking about, Krizta drifted towards the small wooden temple to Sigmar.
Kneeling inside with her face touching the ground, she asks for help to know his will, and where to go from here. After her brief prayer, she found herself thinking about the people she had been traveling with, so she returned and reattached herself to the group, wondering who Josef was and interested to learn more about the future that Sigmar had set before her.
Don't be afraid to ask for help, Krizta, if you need. Should we go to the Shallyan to treat your wounds?
Oh Adelaida, you are very kind, and I thank you, but the pain helps me to forget my own selfishness and focus on Sigmar's voice. ... I'm afraid it is difficult to get through my hard-headedness sometimes, and I need the purification to be worthy. Otherwise I would be constantly looking after my own comfort. I guess I need to be reminded that my needs are lesser than his.
When she is approached by the priest, she listens and then bows and says
If it be his will, then I will seek her.
She returns to Adelaida, explaining what the priest has asked, and says
Do you think that the group would help me in this effort?
hoping that Sigmar had intended them to help, and also, more selfishly, that she doesn't have to try doing this alone.
Taking a break from the sales negotiation with Waltram Mauss, Landolf goes to see what else he can learn about the tavern. Even if the sale goes well, they needed something to buy if they wanted to keep their sudden new hauling enterprise afloat.
Adelaida nods to Krizta
After what happened in Bogenhafen, you can be sure the rest of the group will want to know about the whereabouts of Frau Kleinestun. Beside, a Sigmarite priest asked you, and that's all the reasons I need to help you.
After a pause, she adds
It's nice to have another woman around.
Honestly, it's nice to have you around too.
Krista smiles at Adelaida, glad that Sigmar had sent her such a companion.
Are you done paying your devotions? Should we go find the others?
I think I'm only starting paying my devotions to Sigmar. I've always been a faithful, but felt even more drawn to Him only recently. Maybe fighting the enemies of the Empire strenghtened not only my body, but my soul too. It's only by following his commands that we can find solace.
The usualy stoic soldier seems more peaceful, as if her own words soothed her soul
Mind you, I had fervently wished to be able to learn to write, and read. We were roaming in the street of Bogenhafen-it was only last week, and feel so far all the same-when I spotted a man preaching the crowd, trying to spread the words of Sigmar Heldenhammer, blessed be the Comet. I stopped dead in my tracks, so to speak, and listened. On the crude barrels surrounding the street preacher, there were pamphlets nailed. As my eyes wandered over the sheets, half torned by the winds as they were, the shapes on them started forming words, the words made sentences, the sentences made sense. I can't call what happened a miracle, its not my place to say. It was a calling, and I answered. Now I have to prove myself worthy of Sigmar's grace, I have to shield the faifhful with my sword and armor and to protect their souls with my prayers.
That's an amazing story, and a noble goal. You have been truly blessed with the gift of literacy... a gift I think that Sigmar desires to share with all, that they may read his holy words and know of his life... the good and the bad of it, and the way forward for us all. I know it is just a dream, but I've always thought that a school for children, teaching them to read through sharing the literal words of Sigmar, would be a good work. Having access to Sigmar's word for ourselves is valuable far beyond just listening to another preach--it shows that Sigmar touches our lives directly and personally, as you clearly already know.
Taking a break from the sales negotiation with Waltram Mauss, Landolf goes to see what else he can learn about the tavern. Even if the sale goes well, they needed something to buy if they wanted to keep their sudden new hauling enterprise afloat.
[dice=Gossip 44]1d100
Unfortunately the gossip in the tavern isn’t useful to the budding merchant as the talk is dominated by two topics. The first is the disappearance of the local pharmacist. The feeling in tavern is divided between the pharmacist being an upstanding citizen or a swindler who wouldn’t know real medicine from fake if she got hit in the head with a potion bottle. The other hot topic is the news just in from Bogenhafen. It seems that a traveling cult murdered the town councilors and leading merchants while also setting half the town on fire. Supposedly the cult disappeared down the Bogen after causing devastation. Everyone seems to agree that there are exactly four people in the cult and they’re led by an insane bloodthirsty dwarf. Some of the old codgers tut at this tidbit saying back in their day no dwarf would join a cult, ”don’t know what’s wrong with these youngsters nowadays.”