Braving the Borderlands (Inactive)

Game Master Edeldhur

"The bailiff will take all the help he can get, I'm guessing!" - a man with a crooked nose comments - "And if you don't get the job done, you get no payment, so for him it is all the same I guess" - the group of mercenaries from earlier laughs out loud at that, nodding their heads in agreement.

"I don't know if there is a merchant being more attacked than others, but the Keep is a small place by all measures - we don't really have a lot of merchants around here" - Bumbo added - "I am guessing that caravan that got robbed yesterday... Got hit pretty hard"

I try to understand what merchant owned yesterday's specific caravan.

apart from that, I guess I'm ok to go back to bed.

Taking the opportunity I ask if anyone knows where Mandrake root or Star Sapphire can be found in the wilderness.

Unfortunately Draven is unable to get any more meaningful information from the gathered group in the tavern.

They seem to not know details about which merchant owned the specific caravan which was attacked, and they definitely know nothing about the mysterious Mandrake root or Star Sapphire.

He decides to retire and get some much needed rest, even more so for a student of the Arcane.

==========

The next day you all meet at breakfast in the tavern next door, to a serving of bread, cheese, fruit and ale.

So I guess we all have a good sleep and in the morning we get together over breakfast, these news are shared and we start going around the place looking for additional info, like:

- Most immediate dangers (close to the keep or urgent) - Lizard men? Mad Hermit? Bandit raids? Others? How can we help? (preferably for coin)
- Layout of the land - What's around? What's explored and what's not? What's dangerous and what's safe? How about a map?
- Who's who around the keep? What services are here? Where can we stay that doesn't cost 1 gold a night? Where can we get supplies?

And I think that's it from me :)

Now, Pah d'Reco isn't the most charismatic man so he mostly talks to people whose job it is to know these things like merchants, staff of the keep, etc. He doesn't like approach a random stranger on the street and if anyone on the party does he listens but doesn't intervene much.

Also, I don't think we need to always go around together, if we split up sometimes we'll get this done faster.
If the assumptions I made above on the first paragraph are true, Pah d'Reco says this to the party.

So... If we're all feeling rested and strong as I am, shall we go about this? The sooner we start the sooner we finish I always say...
In his mind Pah d'Reco measures the wisdom content of this last sentence and regrets saying it. C'mon d'Reco that's not the kind of thing Zirchev would say! Next time, something about trees or beasts, probably felling trees or killing beasts. Get it together man!

Errm right. Shall we then?

Assuming Draven tell us the information he gathers, in the next morning I say:

I think we can stay toguether Drako. This is just a keep. If we are to go toguether adventuring why not accept a job toguether instead of: I need to speak with some frinds first. I don't know about you but think we'll have a paid job before lunch. We just have to speak with either the merchants by the guild house or the bailiff and we get ourselfs with an adventure.

Let me know if you have some alternate plan of action, otherwise I will go with the proposed by d'Reco, and assume you are all going together.

I tell the group what I learned last night.

Guys the bailiff seems to be a good place to start, maybe he will pay us to handle the lizardman or to at least capture some, or maybe to check out where the caravan was attacked ...

And I agree that the keep seems to be small, and we probably will be more efficient going together.

DM, I agree, go with d'Reco's plan but all together.

Both the Lizardman close to the keep or escorting a caravan seem good to me. - answers Lan

Yeah we all go together

After lunch d'Reco suggests the group chills for a while under a large tree (or some other place that offers a peaceful and somewhat secluded environment) for a smoke.

When everybody's peaceful and relaxed, he tells them how he's been wandering a bit aimless through life, how religion's been offering some needed guidance and his own personal struggle with it.

So you see, I'm not here seeking fame or riches, but challenges that can help me learn about who I really am, who Zirchev really was, and ultimately if it makes sense to walk in his footsteps or make my own.

What I don't know is where to start. And a man's gotta eat, so starting with paid work is probably a good thing.

But what if there's no coin to be had? What would you do then? What would I do then?

This is probably a good time to tell you that I'm sometimes complicated, and if I see a bear fighting an armed man I may well rescue the bear, if you know what I mean. Life isn't always black and white, and neither am I.

He pauses for a bit and then finishes.

If we find nothing more worthy today, I'd like to take whatever form of a map we can find, provisions for a few days, and venture into the wilds aimlessly to commune with the land and see what guidance Zirchev has to offer.

But I'd rather not do this alone and this gathering here offers some promise, if I'm any judge of character. So I propose we go around and say what's on our minds. Can we travel together? Are we of one mind, or will we bicker constantly over the next step to take? Now is the time to speak friends, if you please...

You think to much Draco - answers Lan with a laugh - I'm more simple. I'm here for the fun, but I also need the coin. I stick to your plan, first try to get some paid job but if that's not possible then go out on our own.

Regnar listens to everybody before he chimes in

I've got a wee bit o' gold, so I won't be starvin' anytime soon. But if it's all the same to ye, I'd rather head straight into the caves. We know for certain there's danger in there, and what's not to love about monster-infested tunnels?

He then looks around making sure nobody's listening and he comes closer to the group speaking in hush tones Also, I've heard whispers of ancient dwarven halls in these parts, so I say, the deeper, the better!

I also need coin, but above all, I would like to further my knowledge about the magical arts.

On the other hand, being able to properly bind the magical energies to cast a spell is very exciting, so I aim to learn how to cast ever more powerful spells.

I'm also a student of the magical arts but I'm Just an aprentice. Maibe we can exchange knowledge and learn with One another Draven.
But for now guys, you better count only with my archery and sword play.
Regnar, for me the caves Will be a place to go for sure but right now I'd stick with a paid job. If there is any in the caves then its as good for me as any other one.

The group spends some time getting to know each other after breakfast, in a rare moment of harmony and sharing. Then they are off in search of adventure and inspiration!

It is immediately obvious people are more responsive to the most charismatic of the elements of the group - Al'Lan and Draven, mostly steering away from Regnar's gruff demeanor, and remaining somewhat neutral toward d'Reco.

Not too far from the Inn and Tavern, on the way to the Bailiff Tower, they come across two merchant houses - the first dealing in all manner of armor, weapons, and large quantities of goods such as salt, spices, cloth, rare woods, etc. Surprisingly (or maybe not), both the trader - a man by the name of Khalidd - and his two grown sons who assist him, all are protected by leather armor, and carry swords.

The other merchant house is a provisioner, selling typical equipment used by adventurers during wilderness and dungeon exploration. He does not sell weapons other than a few spears, daggers, arrows, and bolts. He has several shields, but does not sell armor or mounts. The owner is a man named Ellias.

Further down the same avenue you find the smithy and armorer. The lower floor is occupied by a forge, bellows, and smith tools such as hammers, chisels, and tongs. At this location, horses and mules are shod, weapons forged, armor repaired, and similar work done. The smithy is a bulky man named Ghor, who works here with his two apprentices.

As you approach the formidable structure known as the Bailiff's Tower, you can't help but notice its impressive height, towering 40 feet above the ground with a battlement crowning its peak. The walls, marked with slits for archery, suggest a stronghold prepared for defense.

Upon entering, you find yourself in the office of the bailiff, the superintendent of the fortress. The room is shared with a scribe, and you see a longbow and a quiver of arrows hanging on the wall, suggesting readiness for any conflict. The scribe's desk holds an inkpot that, despite its dirty appearance, catches your eye with a subtle glint.

The bailiff, a seasoned veteran of many campaigns, carries the weight of his responsibilities with a stern yet fair demeanor. His presence commands respect; his posture is as sturdy as the tower he oversees. His head, though balding, shines with the wisdom of his years, and his black-gray beard is a testament to his experience. His eyes, sharp and observant, miss nothing - a trait that has undoubtedly served him well in his duty. Despite his grizzled appearance, there's an air of approachability about him, perhaps a nod to the many battles he's weathered, both on the field and within these walls. He moves with purpose, each step a silent promise to protect and manage the fortress with unwavering dedication.

As you take in your surroundings, you realize this tower is not just a place of residence, but a key defensive position, ready to protect the fortress at a moment's notice.

I have decided to divide the 'exploration of the Keep' in chunks which are more manageable - as if you guys were walking along the street coming from the Inn. Let me know if and how you want to interact with any of the people/structures you come across, or if you want to continue along. GO!

Good morning sir Baliff. - says Lan adressing the baliff - Some men at the tavern toled us that you were contracting adventurers. We are interested to know to what jobs are you hiring sir.

I take the opportunity as we pass by the merchant houses and talk to them to try to understand better what happened.

Good morning sir. Sorry to bother you, I've heard that a merchant caravan was attacked and arrived at the gates with no one driving it.
If the caravan is yours I would like to express my deepest sympathy.

I give some time to see if the person comments.

I'm new here and was wondering if the roads are that dangerous or if it's the first time something like this has happened.

Also, I was wondering, is there anyone doing anything about it?

For now, Pah d'Reco hangs back without participating in the conversations, just listening. He's particularly interested in hearing from the bailiff, but doesn't do anything to speed or break up the conversation with the merchants.

Good morning sir Baliff. - says Lan adressing the baliff - Some men at the tavern toled us that you were contracting adventurers. We are interested to know to what jobs are you hiring sir.

"Good morning to you" - the bailiff replied, his eyes sharp and assessing as they move over the group. He leans forward slightly from where he stands, hands resting on the table that separates them, indicating his interest - "I guess the tavern folk have been speaking of our need for adventurers, have they? But indeed it's true. We're always in need of courageous lads and lasses" - he straightens up, crossing his arms, but the intensity of his gaze does not waver - "There is no lack of challenges around these parts, that much I can tell you. If you can prove your abilities that is, and you survive, for sure there will be ample opportunity for valor and reward. So tell me, what CAN you do?"

I take the opportunity as we pass by the merchant houses and talk to them to try to understand better what happened.

Good morning sir. Sorry to bother you, I've heard that a merchant caravan was attacked and arrived at the gates with no one driving it.
If the caravan is yours I would like to express my deepest sympathy.

I give some time to see if the person comments.

I'm new here and was wondering if the roads are that dangerous or if it's the first time something like this has happened.

Also, I was wondering, is there anyone doing anything about it?

"Morning to you young man. Thanks for the kind words. Yep, that caravan was ours, and it's hit us hard. It's not just the stuff we lost, but knowing the roads ain't safe no more. They've always been rough, with all sorts of trouble waiting out there. But lately, it's getting to be too much, even for us pioneer like folks" - he shakes his head.

"As for what's being done... Well... Usually the bailiff looks into these sorts of troubles. He's the one keeping us safe here. The Guild House, they handle the coin and keep track of comings and goings. They're not usually the ones to handle such matters, but this time, they might step in too, seeing as it's bad for business and all" - the man shrugged.

"Are you some sort of adventurer type, friend?" - he seems to be observing you more attentively.

Indeed we are searching for ways to make some coin.
But since I'm not from around here I also wanted to understand the type of challenges we can expect.

And the guild house where is it? Not sure if we should go to the bailiff or the guild house first, who should we talk to in the Guild House?

I'm trying to be polite and get to know him (local people) a bit.
Who knows maybe he shares something interesting about merchants, guild house or any bit of local knowledge.

Regnar tags along with the group a bit impatiently

His a hand is always on his purse and he keeps looking over his shoulder checking for thieves

Are you some sort of adventurer type, friend?

Of course, laddie! We're true adventurers, seeking fortune and unraveling mysteries in the treacherous Caves of Chaos. Coin and valuable knowledge are what drive us forward on this perilous journey!

Indeed we are searching for ways to make some coin.

But since I'm not from around here I also wanted to understand the type of challenges we can expect.

And you're telling me that things have been getting worse lately. Do people know what or who has been attacking the travelers and caravans?

And the guild house where is it? Not sure if we should go to the bailiff or the guild house first, who should we talk to in the Guild House?

I'm trying to be polite and get to know him (local people) a bit.
Who knows maybe he shares something interesting about merchants, guild house or any bit of local knowledge.

The merchant, sensing Draven's genuine interest and perhaps seeing an opportunity for help, replies with a mix of caution and hope - "An adventurer, eh? Well, you've come at a time when brave souls are needed. The attacks, they've been more frequent, and nobody's quite sure who's behind them. Some say it's bandits, emboldened by the lack of patrols. Others whisper of darker things... creatures that aren't just after coin, but after blood."

He leans in closer, lowering his voice. "The Guild House is just on the other side of the Keep, can't miss it – big wooden building with the guild's crest. If you're looking to offer your sword, maybe talk to clerk Harrow. He's the one managing the coin and the contracts. As for the bailiff, well…He's a good man, but overwhelmed with the troubles of late. If you think you can lend a hand, I'm sure both might be interested in what you have to say"

”I know not much of these Caves of Chaos master dwarf” - he replies to Regnar - ”But I am sure some of the mercenaries who mill about the tavern would know something of it. Maybe some have actually been there even? Alls I know is it’s a dangerous place, infested with monsters” - he finished with a shiver.

Dobin, having worked many times as a caravan guard, once again finds himself at the local merchant guild looking for a contract. The halfling and old man he joined up with over the last job are also here looking for work.

”Why, these fellows just came in moments ago looking for work themselves” - the merchant looks from Draven and Regnar to Dobin, Rizana and Kallum - ”Mayhaps you are looking for the same?”

A good chance for the ‘newcomers’ to introduce themselves :)

Rizana stood her shoulder slimped and arms folded under her chest. The red haired halfling girl looked bored, perhaps itritated as she seemed to tap her foot.

Strangely her belt held a wicked looking mace well kept and also well used. She also had decent clothes and her red hair was up on a tosseled bun.

She looks up hesring newcomers and she stiffens slightly as well as her hand goinf to her mace. She stops herself and then huffs blowing a stay lock from her cute face. Though once again she looks bored and resigned.

The man the merchant refers to stands just over 6 feet and is powerfully built. He wears well-used chainmail and a great axe hangs from his belt. He has an air of competency as he looks you up and down.

"Dobin Cur is the name. These here are Rizana and Kallum. We are looking for employment if you are hiring. What say you?"

The wiry, sand-haired, older man reaches inside his vest and pulls out a flask of whatever rotgut was the cheapest at the time and takes a swig.

"Dobin's got the right of. Living is expensive, so sadly a job it is."

A middle aged man donning a chain mail and a holy symbol of the Church of Traladara shuffles nervously and says in faltering voice:

Well met I'm sure. I'm Pah d'Reco (he pronounces it Draco) and these are Al'lan, Regnar and Draven. We arrived only yesterday, trying to get a feel for the area.

He seems more than a bit uncomfortable and glad to slip back and let the others carry on with the introductions.

A middle-aged man, reserved at first, but eventually moves forward and presents himself:
Hail and well met, I am Draven.
Indeed, I agree with thee; the toll of existence is truly burdensome, and we are in need of means to procure some coin.

" I just wanna smash skulls in ans get paid for it" Rizana says as she looks up still hunched slightly and a wide smile on her face.

" If you have a job like that Im willing to take it on" she says as she seems to look at the others assessing them each. Slowly and methodically, before stopping on one spot or another lingering on it as if contemplating something. She then moves on in her scan. Only her lingering eyes and face alights on those pauses. As if a hunter watching its prey.

Regnar paces slowly around the newcomers eyeing them up and down suspiciously

Our fellowship be mighty and true, stout-hearted and fierce in battle. But if ye seek to join our quest into the darkness of the Caves of Chaos, ye have to prove yer mettle and show us ye can stand firm alongside us. This journey be no place for the faint of heart! Think long and hard before ye venture forth, for only the bold and the brave shall emerge victorious.

"Bold's not a problem." Kallum says gruffly, glancing toward his two companions - the fire-haired halfling in particular.

"Brave? I guess that depends on your definition now doesn't it? There's a fine line between bravery and stupidity, a line I'm not likely to cross. If you're not foolhardy and you and yours hold up your end of the bargain, we'll do the same."

You gotta love a man with this atitude - says a confident elf stepping forward and giving a friendly punch on Regnar's shoulder - I'm Lan and I'm here for the pleasure of adventuring

Rizana looks at the Dwarf and then to Kallum. " Brave? True?"

" Look here beardy, I just want to beabel to smash in knees, elbow, hands feet and lastly the skull..." she pauses and slumps havinf risen during her speech.

"...Oh and for coin, thats legal" she adds slumping again and looking as if resigned ro having to say and do something she really doesnt want too.

"Don't pay Riz no never mind. Her mace is in the right place...most of the time!"

He laughs at the private joke before going on.

"Seriously, she is a wonder to behold on the battlefield. You bring us along and you will be as safe as a wee babe in its mother's arms."

By the hand of fate do our paths entwine at this very hour, and in this land, we shall encounter ordeals that will assay each of us.

Let us bind our journeys together until the hour our sagas must part ways once more.

" Interesting more flowery words..." She says as she seems to still slouch. She sighs and walks over to the dwarves.

" I'm Rizana," She awkwaedly holds out her hand " Pleasure"

The merchant strokes his beard thoughtfully as he surveys the motley crew before him - "It seems fate has brought together another band of hearty souls" - he comments to his sons - "Let us hope the Fates smile upon them" - the man added, then urging them back to work, and busying himself with the shop's affairs.

Please feel free to continue with the introductions, or interact with NPCs, or whatever else may suit your fancy :)

Turning to the group Lan says - Guys, what you say we go speack with the bailif and clerk Jarrow to see what jobs they have to offer. I'm feeling restless already

" Whats the quarry? Is it goblins, orcs, a twisted man? Worse things like Trolls or maybe a tax collector?"

" What everyone hates taxs" She says at the looks.

Kallum shakes his head and allows himself a chuckle at Rizana's comment, ready to follow along to find out what the job actually entails.

d'Reco laughs a somewhat exaggerated, nervous laugh at the halfling's comment
Hahah yes, a tax collector would fine prey!

Then more settled, But yeah, first let's see if clerk Harrow has any coin to offer for the job...

And in a lower tone, more to himself than others, he chuckles
Let's just hope he doesn't do taxes... Pffft

Recently, a caravan has been attacked; additionally, as I recall it, some lizardmen have attacked people. Both may present themselves as fortuitous chances to amass gilded coins.

"How much will the guild pay for us to remove these threats?"

If the problems are increasing so will be the payment. We can skip the bailif by now and go strait to the guild house.

Shall we then?, d'Reco says motioning the group towards the guild house

So we are ignoring the chat which was initiated with the bailiff? This:

Al'Lan Mandragoran wrote:

Good morning sir Baliff. - says Lan adressing the baliff - Some men at the tavern toled us that you were contracting adventurers. We are interested to know to what jobs are you hiring sir.

"Good morning to you" - the bailiff replied, his eyes sharp and assessing as they move over the group. He leans forward slightly from where he stands, hands resting on the table that separates them, indicating his interest - "I guess the tavern folk have been speaking of our need for adventurers, have they? But indeed it's true. We're always in need of courageous lads and lasses" - he straightens up, crossing his arms, but the intensity of his gaze does not waver - "There is no lack of challenges around these parts, that much I can tell you. If you can prove your abilities that is, and you survive, for sure there will be ample opportunity for valor and reward. So tell me, what CAN you do?"

That was before Draven went to the merchant and we "gain" more ppl in the group. I don't know why Draven didn't finish at the bailif before going there but we continued at the merchant... I thought we ignored this parte. So... we can continue from the merchant

Solid. You are 7 players in total, so from now as 'general procedure' to keep the game moving, I will assume you are taking a course of action once I have four votes in favor, to allow everyone a chance to participate. If I understand correctly, so far we have two votes to go check the Guildhouse right away.

Make that 3!!

4 it is.

Settled!

As you stride through the Keep, the first hints of early spring surround you. The chill of winter lingers in the air, but the promise of warmth and new growth can be felt. You walk along the cobblestone paths, which lead you past the various buildings of the Keep, each one solid and functional. The Keep is a hive of activity, with guards on patrol and residents going about their daily routines.

Approaching the Guild House, you observe its utilitarian design. The building is well-maintained but lacks the ornate decorations usually found on more welcoming establishments. The wooden door, reinforced with iron bands, swings open with a creak, revealing a functional reception area inside.

This room is sparsely furnished, with ledgers and records of trading and accounting neatly arranged on a large desk dominating one side. A young clerk, dressed in simple but neat attire, sits behind the desk, diligently making entries in a thick ledger. He looks up as you enter, offering a brief but courteous nod. The room is otherwise quiet, save for the soft rustling of parchment and the distant murmur of voices from deeper within the building.

Near the back of the room, two merchant representatives are engaged in a low conversation, likely discussing their latest transactions. They glance your way briefly, their expressions focused and serious, before returning to their discussion.

The clerk rises, smoothing his tunic, and steps forward to greet you. "Good day, travelers" - he says, his tone professional - "How may the Guild House assist you this morning?"

I am assuming you guys are walking around fully armed and armored?