"We've come looking for an inn. Be a good man and let us in." Telurion calls out.
If he gets shot down the second time he turns to Variel, "So be it, let's try your door."
"We've come looking for an inn. Be a good man and let us in." Telurion calls out.
If he gets shot down the second time he turns to Variel, "So be it, let's try your door."
” well it is payday. And who am I to keep a fellow warrior away from a soft bed. Buy me a beer if you see me later”.
You all hear a boat being jumped back and the door is pulled aside for your entry.
You enter passing beneath the thick walls of the city and find a bored guard sitting behind a cluttered desk. There is another sitting across from her... feet propped up on the desk. As the door creaks open the relaxing guard drops his feet from the desk and stands trying to look like he's actually doing something. The female guard behind the desk, looks over at the gate guard questioningly, then seeing he seems to have allowed entry picks up a ledger from the desk, opens it to a marked page, and spins it around facing the party.
"I'll need you each to provide a name, where you're from, and what your business in Bards Gate is. If you have where you'll be staying locally then you can note that as well. We have a policy of declaring trade goods at the gate to ensure proper taxation". The speech seems rote and often repeated. She then looks at the box Telurion is toting. "Do you have any goods to declare"?
Telurion writes his name and town of Raven. ”Nothing to declare unless busted fiddle parts count.” he says and opens the box to show the pieces or piece if it has stitche its parts back together.
Telurion writes his name and town of Raven. ”Nothing to declare unless busted fiddle parts count.” he says and opens the box to show the pieces or piece if it has stitche its parts back together.
"Maybe these gentlemen know where we can get it fixed Telurion. We could set out straight away in the morning."
Caks will write in the ledger. It's really hard to decipher. She must have terrible handwriting.
The man who had been lounging when you first approached looked at the fiddle parts with a bored expression, and quickly put the lid back on. "Just a bunch of junk. Good luck getting it fixed. Must be important to travel all the way to Bards Gate just to get an old fiddle fixed... but whatever".
The woman behind the desk turns the ledger to look at what you wrote down, starts to question the final signature, then just sighs and motions you onward.
"Don't know if you're familiar with the city, but you'd stand the best chance of getting a room at the Nightgate over there". She points at a large building up the street on the left (M2). "Not the best place to stay, but you might still be able to get a room there. If you plan on crossing over the Market Bridge out of the Market District, you'd better plan on having a coin or two handy".
Then with a smile that reveals her missing two front teeth... "Good Evening, and welcome to Bards Gate".
”Thanks, and enjoy the evening.” Telurion says as he steps out the door. On the street he turns to his friends, ”What do you think? Nightgate, at least for this evening?”
”Thanks, and enjoy the evening.” Telurion says as he steps out the door. On the street he turns to his friends, ”What do you think? Nightgate, at least for this evening?”
"Not sure that sounded like a strong referral, but sure."
"It didn't but I figured a bed for the night and then we can look around town during the day." Telurion responds. If no one seems to be against the idea, he heads toward the Nightgate.
"There's a place between Prayer and Presitigation that can make almost anything okay; we'll get there."
The Nightgate is just up the street from the Market Gate at the intersection of Redmon Way and Market way. There is noise spilling from the common room, and laughter and boisterous singing fill the air. Standing outside the inn is a wiry halfling with a thin moustache and oily hair. He catches the eyes of the new arrivals, as though he kept watch on the gate to see any late arrivals to the city.
"Ah Friends! Welcome to Bards Gate, and it's finest Inn the Nightgate. I'm the proprietor of this fine inn and tavern and am pleased to offer you as new arrivals our special "First Timers" discount of only 1-Harp (SP) per night for your own room".
He then smiles and goes to place a friendly arm around the first of you in line and attempts to lead you into the inn.
"We welcome late arrivals, and have hot porridge available, and if you've got the coin and appetite perhaps a little left-over Hare... and of course the Brin Zwiescher Ale is always fresh and cold here".
Perception DC 15
Catty corner to the Night gate is a much quieter tavern with a Shield on the Door of the Duchy of Waymarch. There is a sign underneath which might be readable under daylight... or if under closer inspection.
Perception DC18
The lettering underneath the shield sign reads "Private Club". There is also a line of smaller script underneath this declaration.
Perception DC20
In addition, there is a line in fainter script that reads Spellcasters and other undesirables unwelcome.
Caks nudges the others, trying surreptitiously to indicate a different tavern he sees.
Noticing the other inn and Caks gesture, Telurion says, "That's good to know. We're going to shop around a bit. We may be back. Take care now." the broad man says and turns to follow Caks but first checks to ensure his purse is still where it should be.
Variel glances about, clearly getting that Caks was on about something, just not quite sure what.
"You know, it could be lovely, but it does say 'Private' on that sign as well."
"You won't find a better deal... and are even less likely to find hot food at this hour. Keep in mind this is a limited time offer. Once we're full the rates skyrocket".
He lets you go and moves on to the next wandering group of people.
As you get closer you can make out the rest of the signs on the building.
Looking at the sign, Telurion begins to have second thoughts, ”What do you think? I’m not sure what they might consider undesirables and you can surely drop a spell or two.” he says looking at Variel.
"I think that whether or not it's Bard's Gate's finest inn, Nightgate at least isn't discriminating about where its silver comes from. Let's stay here."
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"Sounds good" Telurion says and heads back to Nightgate. "Sir, we are going to take you up on your fine offer."
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"Ah! wonderful. I know you'd be back. You'll not find a better deal in town. Of course at these rates we'll require payment in advance. That will be (4) Harps for the rooms, (3) Copper each for the Porrige, and 1-CP per mug of delicious, cold, Brin Zwiescher Ale".
He then smiles and attempts to reach for any carried items to take them inside. If allowed he'll scurry to carry in any belingings (Including the box), then step behind the bustling bar, and grab (3) keys off a pegboard, and hand them to you.
"It's late of course and we've only a few rooms left. These are in the eaves to the right at the top of the stairs. A bit of a sloping ceiling challenge for those carrying height, but secure and warm at least. There is a common washroom on the floor below you, and we can arrange a bath if you have the coin".
He then hands you a thin towel that's mostly clean.
"So are you ready for that hot porridge? Any questions, Torrie Dixsons the name. That's me".
As you look around the common room you notice that it's a little over half full. Looks like many weary travelling merchants, and perhaps a more eclectic mix of races than you are accustomed to in Raven. A group of Dwarves are playing cards in a corner with a strange spider like individual dealing at the moment. There are two old women passed out on the table in front of them in the corner, and a young serving girl limps around on a bad leg serving this mostly indifferent group of patrons.
Caks will not let anyone carry her belongings -- she fought too hard to get them to let them out of her sight.
After acquiescing to the porridge, Caks will say to the others, "Let's get rid of this fiddle. Any ideas on who might know about it?"
"Thanks, but I'll carry my own stuff. But the key is welcome. Thank you, we'll do with the porridge as well. Enjoy your evening Mr Dixsons." Telurion says to their host as he sits down with Caks.
When Caks brings up the fiddle...
"Father Grimble mentioned a former associate of his, Abysthor at the Thyrr temple. I figure we can start there in the morning. Once we dump this thing then we can see if there is any good way to make some coin around here. Taverns and food are going to get expensive."
A low-lying fog covers the street as the party dines on the only slightly stale raisin Scones and butter served for breakfast. After getting quick directions to the temple the party begins their trek down Market Street crossing over West Canal on the Market Bridge. They enter the Grand Plaza which is quite today as it's a holiday, and the market is closed they pass a business with a sign out front of a mortar and pestle with Mar's Magical Poultices (M12) displayed. On the left just before crossing into the Guilds District you pass a large tavern called Helman's Bar (M5)
They then cross over the West Canal, which is surprisingly clean this early morning and venture onto Guild Street. The streets are quieter here as the citizens of the district are more settled and serious. While the market district is a wheeling dealing maze, the Guild district is full of individual permanent shops, and guild houses. Travelling east you pass first on the right The Leaded Lantern (G5) . The beautiful glass windows, and glass wind chimes gently tinkling in the slight morning breeze give this away as a purveyor of glass goods.
Past the intersection of Arneson way you continue east and just before Petersen Road you pass what appears to be a lavishly decorated palace. The strong smell of exotic perfumes, and the red light out-front give this away as the headquarters of the Harlot's Guildhall (G18) .
On the other side of Petersen Road stand an Inn known as The Bards Lute (G4) and across from it the hexagonal Stoneworkers Guildhall (G13) , with it's finely crafted bas reliefs. Beside the Stoneworkers Hall begin a row of armorers punctuated by a chainmail specialist called Rings of Steel (G9) .
Just before you enter the sprawling Guildhall Court you pass The Wheelwrights guild (G10) on the left, with its huge doors carved to resemble cartwheels, and a across the street another armorer specializing in Plate armor known as Scaled Down (G8) . The sign out front shows a man standing firm as a dragon breathes fire on him with no obvious effect.
An Octagonal stage dominates the center of Guildhall Court, but it seems a bit early for speeches. You see several guild houses opening their doors and setting out tables displaying products outside their opulent buildings.
Going right on Geilman Street takes you past a temple to some god that has been converted into a dining establishment with the name "Wicked Sisters (OT18) Prominently displayed.
DC 18 RK: Religion
This was once a temple to Pan deserted years ago and repurposed.
Finally, you arrive at two vast temples that seem to have seen their better days. While the basic designs are similar with soaring columns surrounding them, the signs of wear and not enough upkeep reveal them to be temples of declining interest. The first temple you pass on the Left and fronting Guildhall Court is The Shrine of the Uplifted Sword (OT3) which you all know is devoted to the worship of Muir, and just past it the almost identical Exalted Temple of Thyr the Lawgiver (OT2)
You're up!!!
Telurion walks up to the door of the Temple of Thyr and attempts to open the door. If it opens he goes on in and calls out, "Hello, anybody here?" If the door does not open he pounds on it and waits.
"Let's go in. I'm tired of waiting."
This large temple is still solid despite the effects of limited maintenance over the years. The group enters through the open first half of the temple (See image). that once hosted masses of worshipers that overflowed the interior. Telurion approaches the massive double doors that show signs of recent graffiti removal, and despite their weight they are little challenge for his strength.
The door swings open interrupting some type of morning service that was taking place. The sermon immediately ceases as the party makes their presence known. The vast inner room echos with Tellurion's booming voice and the faces of about 60 souls turn to see what the interruption is.
There is an alter at the opposite end of the room behind which stands the obvious high priest of Thyr. He is flanked by four lesser priests on each side in silver and dark blue robes. At the end of each seated row stands a warrior clad in brilliantly polished Plate mail and holding forth a halberd topped by a banner dedicated to the lawgiver. There is a choir area to the right with about 20 younger acolytes seated there, and 6 other plate clad warriors are spread around the walls of the room... including two who move to cross polearms and bar the party's entrance.
Rows of wooden benches fill the empty space between the entrance and the alter, and wooden benches line the walls. Only the first few rows are filled with worshipers... about 30 in total.
After a moment of silence, the high priest shouts out.
The remaining champions of the faith hustle to support the holy warriors at the door, except for the two near the alter who move to guard the High Priest.
"Hey, Alorea. Try to tell them that we didn't want to interrupt. But, we're here about the fiddle."
"I didn't know. Put up a sign next time or post a greeter. I have a missive from Father Grimble in Raven. If you don't mind we'll sit on the back bench until you are done." Telurion offers.
"Your Grace might imagine we meant absolutely no harm whatsoever, arriving only as supplicants sent from Raven after it was ravaged by a foul and unholy relic."
Team Raven can feel that the bow which follows is difficult for Variel, suffering insufferable humans was not so much his thing.
"I am Elder Variel Quinn, sworn to the service of Darach-Albith since my childhood; please take no offense at our interruption, in fact, let us withdraw and stand watch over your doorway until your ceremony is complete. The artefact is dormant for now, all our gods be praised."
[dice=Aid to Alorea's Diplomacy]1d20+4
You can see that the high priest is angry but is holding his temper. He looks at you... then at the crowd, and his demeanor changes from anger to concealed anger.
Perception (Sense Motive) DC18
He is still seething... but wishes to come across to the gathered faithful as forgiving and benign.
"Of course. While Thyr preaches following procedures and laws they must be informed before they can be enforced. Wait outside or at Wicked Sisters across the street, and I'll send for you as time allows. Thyr watch your steps".
With the curt dismissal he motions for the two guards at the door to urge you towards the entry. As you step out the doors close firmly behind you.
Telurion, waves sheepishly at the crowd and departs as requested. Unless everyone else wants to go across the street, Telurion would prefer to mill about outside the door.
Caks will leave with Telurion.
"Let's go across the street; I have some experience with both churches and clergy, waiting there will make us seem more compliant. Rest assured whoever forgot the "do not disturb" sign will be receiving a hearty flogging."
"Fair enough, across the street it is." Telurion says and follows Variel.
@ Wicked Sisters (OT18)
This eatery is one of the most lucrative examples of the urban renewal
happening in the Old Temple District. The original temple decorations seemed to largely embrace excess and a bit of debauchery, and the more recent renovations only expanded upon this theme.
As it is still before the Noon meal, the tavern is sparsely populated, with only a couple of tables in the back occupied by seemingly groups of students judging by the books and scrolls loosely scattered on the shared tables.
A burly man seems to be tidying tables, while two younger barmaids wipe down tables and check on the students. From behind the bar comes a female voice.
"Seat yourselves and I'll send someone over. I'm Ewa and me and my sister Tessa run the place".
After a few moments one of the attractive barmaids approaches to serve you.
It's a little early for mid-day meal... but there might be some leftovers from last night if you're not too picky. What can I get you"?
Except for the two tables of students there is only a lone elf sitting alone at the bar scribing something on a piece of parchment. A musical instrument case occupies the stool beside him, and as you watch he seems to have inspiration and smiles noting some random thought on the page.
"Some bread, some cheese, some coffee. Just the basics if you would be so kind."
Perched on the edge of a roof overlooking the entrance to the tavern is a ragged-looking raven, his dark eyes watching as the three travelers enter. They certainly *seem* the adventuring type--mismatched armor, multi-species, traveling in a small group even in the city.
Once they enter, the raven searches for another perch, one where he can watch them through a window. It'd be preferable to be able to listen, but just flying into the tavern seems... ill-advised. Still, at some point he'll have to approach them. He'd rather get a feel for their group dynamics and goals first if he can, though.
”Coffee is good for me,” Telurion said distractedly as he watched out the window for someone to come across for them. As he turns his head to look out the window he notices the fellow with the instrument case and instinctively puts his foot in the crate.
The elf at the bar looked over as the adventurers entered. This place was popular with college kids and locals and these folks were neither. He didn't usually hang out in the Old Temple district but his mother had wanted to talk to Yun at the Excriptory down the street and he'd heard about a funny sounding play happening after lunch at the Forum so he had tagged along.
It had been years since Rail had time to be bored, and the novelty was starting to wear off. He'd even started carrying his guitar and a notebook around like he was back in college just in case inspiration struck. Getting run out of Endhome the way he had was embarrassing, nearly career ending, and potentially deadly to boot but at least he hadn't been bored. Weeks of no contact even had him thinking about signing with the Society of Arms (a Lyreguard contract was out of the question since he was still technically working for the city's diplomatic corps).
Sometimes he wondered how "adventuring" worked. They were like mercenaries but self-directed. That could be interesting, he supposed. But how did you even start? Did you just pick up a sword and walk around until you chanced upon a gnoll eating a baby?
Huh. Maybe he could just ask if these people didn't look busy. Rail decided to give it a few minutes then introduce himself.
As the serving girl brings over the ordered food and drink both the group of three and the elf at the bar notice that they keep looking at each other from time to time sizing each other up perhaps?
After a few moments the thin elf rises from his stool and approaches the three Raven travelers with a smile.
Perception DC17
You can't help but notice a strange ruffled looking black Raven seems to be watching you all. The behavior is strange as most birds take off when noticed but this one seems to be almost studying you.
@ Brennus
As you watch through the window a tall elf at the bar comes over and introduces himself to the three travelers you had watched enter earlier. From the corner of your eye, you see a small rat scurry across the hallway between the bar and the kitchen.
You also notice after about an hour a youth wearing the colors of the Temple across the street hustles towards the tavern after stopping for a moment outside the main entrance and looking about. He holds a rolled up scroll in his hand.