yep... waiting....
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*Bump* Off away now, for the week on holiday. Be back friday. Not sure how much 'net connection I will have.
Wow everyone seems so busy at the moment with Ragathiel & Raventhorn going back to college, CanyonR's new job and Hu5tru being jet-lagged, I hope everyone is doing well.
It's alright, happy to hear about the new job. Hope the trainings going well. I am here. :)
Matt leaves the Standing Ogre with his fellows enjoying the Taldorian weather. The cool sea breeze making it way through the streets; picking up the smells of the inhabitants as it goes. His pace steady he looks to the others as he makes his way towards the rendezvous.
With a smile on his face, Matt watches the others discuss fashion and heraldry whilst passing no comment. 'Red & Gold, Blood & Power. Interesting, I remember our old colours, how long has it been since I wore them with pride?' He leans upon the table, his bones feeling sudden weary. "Well, I guess we shall be going? I could accompany you to near the meeting with Tristen, if that's alright, and then we split? Or we could wait there from now." Looking up through thick honey eyelashes; "I am afraid I my fashion sense has been eroded by the harsh desert winds." said with a laconic wink. He pushes himself off the table as they leave the room.
Matt pauses thinks for a second and corrects himself; "By other party I mean any watchers or ambushers who want to spoil the deal. And by stop I mean keep an eye out for."
Congrats, hope it's better pay or more satisfying. Most I think are still in X-mas recovery mode.
Matt gives a bashful smile with a tilt of his head, as he speaks to Guen quietly to one side of the common area. "I was wanting to make sure of a fair price for the items, not just what he is willing to pay. But like all antiques and curios; their value is not inherent but transisent like beauty, or a womans smile. I was also trying to ascertain where they might enter the town, however without their estates or route that would be difficult."
Matt moves to stand taking Guens hand and lightly kissing it. He moves back to the conference room. A good 15minutes after he left Matt returns to the group, with a curiously shiny look in his eye. [b]"Alright, slight change in plan. Unsurprisingly Alika was correct. We will have to be reactive and thus are more vulnerable. Tristen, you and I with your friend wait outside the meeting tavern, whilst the others negotiate. Perhaps we can stop the other party from there?"
Matt stands looks to the others at their unspoken agreement with the plan and leaves the room. He makes his way down stairs; entering the common-room he lets out a smile at the territorial wrangling of the dwarven bar-keep and the cat. Sidling upto the bar, he asks 'Guens in the kitchen?" After being told of her location he walks over to find her and inquire if she knows anything of the ABra Grande, his Livery or where his estates are located. Or someone that might know these things. He also asks if there is somewhere that sells specialist enchanted items.
I think the plan for the meeting is as I bullet-pointed? And I favourite the mission posts, so you can see them in DSX's profile. Anyway hope you had a great time. :)
Hu5tru: Saw in your JR thread that you're reading the Gor books. Read a few of them myself. The first couple are alright in that cheesey 'Man=strong' way. In the "priest-kings" it starts getting strange and by the 5-6 its too strange. I think I started the 10th and threw it across the room in disgust.
The funniest thing is, if you do a google search I think there was a group of people in Yorkshire who lived by 'gorean principles' LOL
So, do we want to gather any information on the seller? Or just those who are go straight to the meeting? And any advise on Matts' leveling?
Hope my last post didn't come off as too analytical. Just trying to come up with some IC plan. Does it work? Trying also to cover more ground than just going straight too the meeting like 'babes in the wood', especially since this is a political campaign. Anyways wishing everyone a great new year - health and happiness for all.
Looking around at the group, Matt is stood with his hands palms down upon the table. His mind over-analyzing the possibilities. "So, do we want to do any other research about these items and the seller?" "I was thinking of asking Guen if she knows of any Heralds or Bards Guild where we could find out about the Abra Grandee (or if Guen herself knows about him). I/we could also ask for any curiosity or weapons shop, to get a value? We have 2 hours to do this, should we/I? It could give away information!" "So Matt speaks slowly and methodically as his fingers softly drum on the table.
Closing his hand into a soft fist; "So I'll take watch at a nearby area to see if anyone else is watching the inn. I was also thinking that it could be advantageous if we could find out the Abra Grandee's Livery, in case it is on the coach. Of, course it might not be, but..." "We could also find out what the worth of 3 weapons could be. I know value of antiquities is generally based on what one is prepared to pay."
Actually, just remembered, it could be useful as a skill for Matt to take Craft(Alchemy) rather than the Appraise/History? This would be the correct skill for those spell components (& I like occasionally crafting stuff).
Taking a slight sip of the liquid in his glass; "So Gawain, Mangur and Alika will meet with Abra Grandee Hardagran. Gawain as the noble go-between, Mangur as servant-adviser and Alika to ascertain their value and authenticity." He says noting off the people on his fingers. "What shall us others do, watch from the common room? Find more information?"
Matt looks at Alika carefully; "Well each of the city gates are at least half a mile apart, or they would be useless. There is no road around the city, or the gates would be pointless. Thus for them to take a different gate they would have to travel extra miles in the wilderness with an increased chance of ambush." Matt pauses. "But they could be incompetent as you say and wish to be ambushed, during the dawn traveling." Matt concedes.
Skills:
or Mage Armour (although it's a bit too ubiquitous)
+1 BAB, +1 Will Save;
I'll have to think about the choices for those for a bit. GM CanyonR are the HP randomly rolled?
"That's what I was thinking. The majority wait at the Inn ahead of him, with someone watching at the 'hopefully correct' gate. Then even if we chose the wrong gate, Tristen, or whomever, will be able to come to the Inn and meet the rest of us." Matt shifts in his seat, "Anyway, that was just an option. So Gawain you and someone posing as your observant servant meet the man to discuss the negotiations?" he queries. "We also need to work out the best tack to drive the price to a reasonable number. And someone to verify the items; I have some experience but..."
Matt raises an eyebrow to Alika's condescension, before replying. "Yes, we could hire a platoon of experts. Or we could use our intelligence. Abra Grandee Hardagran will be coming directly from his estate, he will probably take the most direct route." he pauses. "To carry such a cargo and take a circuitous route would invite ambushes. There are few gates to the city and no road that rings it; thus he will take the road from his estate. We can easily find that out and have Tristen wait at the appropriate gate." Matt inclines his head, conceding. "Of course, should the Abra Grandee take a different route and gate, then Tristen could also use his bird to help scout out the other gates for a armed carriage. Yes, there are alot of different cargoes entering the city. I would just like to know what we are to come up against before stepping into the lions mouth." Matt thanks Guen as she enters the room with the refreshments, before pouring himself a small cup. Which he leaves untouched in front of him. 'The Lady should be served first, however Alika would not like that. Already my suggestions raise her ire.'
Matt smiles at Tristan dry humour; "Aye, there is also the problem of Abra Grandee Hardagran's enemies' 'Interesting how it not our employers enemies, we are worrying about?' 'Has anyone heard of him or his affiliations? Should we try to conceal or identities? Or will that add an element of dishonesty that could cost us in negotiations?" Matt queries.
Matt enters the room and reads the notes as they are passed around; once everyone has finished he sucks air through his teeth making a sharp sound. "Interesting, I think maybe someone should shadow the seller as he enters town. That way they can spot any potential ambushes and people following him. Someone could be at the Inn already to meet the group upon arrival." Matt says looking to the others. "There is also the negotiation; what sort of tack should we take. Obviously we cannot bully the price down, however we will have to lower it with objections. This could be achieved by a bit of research which could also help with the identification process..." Matt says cautiously, making sure that everyone is hopefully on the same page. "These are just my initial thoughts."
After the performance Matt goes to bed tired after the long days activities. 'Well that hopefully went alright' he thinks as he gets changed in the shadowy room. He moves over to the window and closes the shutters before going to sleep.
As Alika takes to the stage, looking magnificent and exotic, Matt moves to a shadowed area behind her. Having got cleaned up and looking fresh with his tuned violin, Matt stays in the darkness having found a spot where the acoustics are good but he doesn't get in the way of her performance. The haunting melodies that Alika starts off with Matt quickly picks up from his near decade tour of the country. His adds a light counter-point, emphasizing the attitude she creates. 'Wow, she is good. Mustn't ruin her performance.' Matt's musical touch is light, not over-shadowing the beautiful performance. However as she starts into the up-beat songs, it give the violin a easier time. The beautiful rousing songs that Alika performs leave Matt breathless and exhausted by the end of the performance.
Matt inclines his head softly; "Well, your voice is your instrument. If you wish a little accompaniment, for any performances? I know my skills are not a ounce of your talents, but I am certain that a light melody may enhance your vocals."
Matt looks to his companions; he carefully places the box upon the table. "I thank you, milady, for your discretion and information. It was just we felt we could be more useful to our..." His tone conciliatory. With a careful tap upon the box and slides it towards the lady. "I have not thanked you for you understanding and discretion; would you care for a drink? And the rest of you?"
Matt Matt inclines his head. "Not really, the 'Captain' was a bit of a shyster. And because of the customs official I am not sure how unnoticed we were, but no blood was spilt and we have the merchandise - unopened and safe." A slow grimace crosses his face. 'Well I suppose I will be the one.' He pauses taking a breath and in a low voice so that other tables cannot hear; "I don't suppose, that is to say, we were wondering if you know when the tasks will become more challenging. I don't think any of us wants just to fetch and carry simple items. We were wondering if it may be possible to talk to the boss again." His voice is kind of tight; "I know this is not necessarily the most prudent course and that he has reasons for his actions. That my position is not really to be questioning it just, if would be useful to take of something more...." 'Useful, worthy, challenging, skillful.' Matt leaves the words hanging, having lost his thoughts.
Matt maintains a calm expression as Mangur expresses his beliefs. 'Yes answers are welcome. But as far as my place, well that was drilled into me a long time ago. Although extra money is welcome, my funds are depleting too rapidly.' Matt eyes look up as Guen enters, on the crest of the smell of warm food. "All the better for seeing you again, dear lady." Matt says inclining his head and waiting for another to voice their concerns.
Matt laughs dryly at Alika's comment. "So were we giving these to Gueneph or as per Mangur suggestion try and hand them over to our employer?" Matt questions.
Entering the tavern, box securely positioned under his arm and a whimsical smile upon his face. He looks to the couple and moves to sit beside them. He taps the box. "The expected amount of deceit required. The captain tried to shake us down, but... Anyway, how was the temple? Did you avoid midday prayers and the accompanying sermon?"
Move on, I was just musing to see if Mangur had any ideas; as if I show more doubts, or question before Alika again, she will get even more annoyed with me.
"Nay, I believe they are components for certain arcane rituals." Matt replies. "There was some affectation with his replies and actions. I wonder what he was talking about with de Rossi. Tristen your eyes are sharp and subtle, is anyone following us." "It would not surprise me if de Rossi is also in our employers pay and was grading our display when we present forged or false documents. Alternatively, he could be a competitor of the Lords, which we were meant to meet." Matt muses.
"Thank you and good-day to you, sir!" Matt responds politely, as he packs up the crate again and tucks it under one arm. He steadily moves back down the gang-plank and onto the docks. Once they are out of sight and ear-shot of the boat, Matt looks to his companions.
Matt rolls his eyes cordially; "Exactly gentlemen like him. Apparently it will hopefully give a subtle piquant flavour, or so I was told." Matt tries to put a hint of scorn in his voice for the rich nobles that would pay so much for fripperies like oil.
Matt nods and moves over to the crate. "Certainly, sir. It's a sample of the finest oils, so if you will please be careful. The merest drop split is more than a weeks pay. Hopefully opening them won't make them spoil." He almost whispers the last to himself as Matt walks over to the crate and places down the case. With the utmost care, Matt opens the crate. "This one is a fine pungent oil distilled from the ut-gara fruit." Matt says pointing out a vial. "We are taking them to chef to see if they are suitable for his cuisine. He demands only the best, you know what their type is like." He says conspiratorially. "Although we have high hopes, that if these are upto standard we can place a larger order."
I have assumed the documentation is the manifest and authorisation, not a forged/altered customs signature. Oh, well - shows what happens when you assume & Matt hasn't done much merchanting.
Matt pulls on an ingratiating smile. And moves towards the official the box under on arm. "Good day, this box? Because it is not part of de Rossi's consignment of goods, that is why it was kept separate. I believe he prefers that we are not rooting through his items for our particular cargo." Matt nods. Matt waits for the man to catch up with him; "We have the documentation required for shipping and customs."
Sorry for not posting yesterday, Pc was down - then had to got out for a SW game and party. (Always fun when the Jedi mis-reads his +11 to hit as a +17, when every other party member has a +4 & no weapons. I wonder who dominated that combat?)
"Oh, good eating venison. Beaver that would make a warm cloak. Did your master teach you the curing and skinning processes." Matt says trying to be gentle whilst not loading his voice with emotions. 'I wonder what his story is.' Matt slowly leaves the cabin with the box, trusting Mangur to get and check the appropriate documentation. As he walks and talks gently, Matt avoids the eye of the officious/weaselly looking man.
"What creatures did you skin?" Matt asks curious about the quiet man.
I though we had papers, for if we needed to go through customs (ie show them to the weaselly man.) Edit: You're correct, I'll edit my post. Thanks for that.
Matt nods to the Captain, looking him in the eye and at his general demeanor. 'Is he lying, so that he can talk to these other 'interested parties'? Matt wonders. With a mollifying tone Matt responds. "Just make sure you have a bit extra contingency next time. The boss won't begrudge an honest trust-worthy merchant that!" insinuating that the Captain needs to keep his mouth shut. Matt picks up the box, with a nod of his head and moves to leave the cabin; going out onto the fore-deck and the afternoon sun. He looks back to Mangur, "Friend, can you get the papers from the Captain? Thus enabling our visit to be 'official', you have more experience than I in such matters."
Sorry, was out this evening trying to keep my PC alive in the final session of my Call of Cthulhu campaign. Which I did, but not with his sanity intact ;p Anyway, Matt is really not the intimidating type. Not really going to threaten, especially considering his obvious frailties. Sorry about the 5gp concession, but I am willing to pay for this out of my own pocket if needful (& if I actually have it lol). Obviously he is a scam merchant, but I am not really wanting to quickly sour our employers contacts. However he does know more than we about what is going on. Lol @ Charm Person, Alika, yeah Matt's spells don't include useful things like that.
Matt raises an eyebrow at the words of the Captain. "Really, other 'interested parties', you would be willing to do that. A braver man than me you are then. Wanting it be known that you are a rat and welshing on deals. I couldn't do that, lose my livelihood and more over a few sails." The scorn and pity is evident in his voice. "These, others, what would they do once you have proven your worth as a gossip. I hope you can swim once they slit your throat, so that you don't tattle on them." His hands are gently placed before him on the wooden table surface as he leans forward. "Look how about we throw an extra 5 sails for your trouble and we won't inform our employer about this. Thus you might earn some extra money in future." His voice, tries to be consolatory but underneath it there is a sharp edge.
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