Guudwyn, now surprised, sees Xanros ahead of him walking toward the inn.
"I agree with Rasmus lets get off the street and find that merchant. After we hear what he has to say I would like to go check out Braden's Boudiour to see who owns or runs it since I think that is the safe house front."
Intrigued, Guudwyn asks, "Who would have a safe house here? And Why?"
Intrigued, Guudwyn asks, "Who would have a safe house here? And Why?"
Xanros slows his pace to walk next to Guudwyn, keeping his voice low he answers him, "My guess is that either the 'family' is part of the theft and there for maybe part of a thieves guild or they are part of Cold Steel, the local resistance I hear. As I followed them it seemed that they didn't seem to know where exactly they were going, mostly following the boy, which tells me that they are not thieves, at least locally."
"I agree with Rasmus lets get off the street and find that merchant. After we hear what he has to say I would like to go check out Braden's Boudiour to see who owns or runs it since I think that is the safe house front."
Rasmus slows to join the others. "This boy is intriguing. Why would the family follow him, he's just a boy? That item in his hand, could it have been the rod from the merchant? It was silver, I believe. For the short time I have been here, I have seen many strange things already and wonder what lies ahead for us. We should pray that Heironeous watches out for us in this place as it seems more than unfriendly and, frankly, a bit spooky."
As the group draws nearer to the Sequester, Rasmus looks to the Redcast Mountains to the East and wonders how Jean is. He misses him immensely. Thinking of the heroic tales Jean told of his journeys as a Paladin of Heironeous makes Rasmus smile uneasily. Although he feels like a stranger in this land, he knows that his journey will be an exciting one, filled with many dangers. "Am I up to the task?", he thinks to himself. Despite his training and the powers that the Invincible One has granted him, Rasmus lacks confidence is his callng as a champion.
The mountains are backlit by the sun that sits high in the eastern sky. In this simple scene, Rasmus sees a dichotomy in the light of the sun and the darkness of the shaded peaks.
Rasmus slows to join the others. "This boy is intriguing. Why would the family follow him, he's just a boy? That item in his hand, could it have been the rod from the merchant? It was silver, I believe. For the short time I have been here, I have seen many strange things already and wonder what lies ahead for us. We should pray that Heironeous watches out for us in this place as it seems more than unfriendly and, frankly, a bit spooky."
"Rasmus" Guudwyn stops suddenly with new incite, "You may have hit on something. Now this is just a theory. What if the boy stole the item? And, it was the item in his hand. If this item is some type of powerful magical relic, it is possible that it has taken control of the boy. This could be why the boy seems so strange." Guudwyn glances at his companions, tightens his lips in befuddlement, and sighs. Then acknowledges, "I am probably getting way ahead of myself. I have a tendancy to over assess a situation. I guess we should just find out what the merchant is missing first before jumping to more conclusions." Guudwyn starts walking again.
As you move down the street, you do gain a bit of notice. No one seems to pick Rasmus out for his skin color however, and you make it to the Sequester with no real problems. As you approach the building, the woman you observed earlier on the porch is not within sight. The building itself is a well appointed 2 story inn with a small kitchen but advertises in elegant calligraphy on a sign out front that there is 'no alcohol served or allowed on these premises.' It seems to be catering to a higher end clientele who prefer a quieter experience.
As you climb onto the porch you notice it is well built, sturdy, and has nicely made comfortable porch furniture as well. As you open the door to enter a light scent of fresh rose petals reaches your nostrils and you glimpse fine woodwork of the interior. As your eyes adjust and you step inside you see an elegant lobby. A young, relatively attactive human female (the one you saw on the porch in fact) about 5' tall with light brown hair and brown eyes is coming down the stairs to your right. There are two exits from this room other than the stairs and the door through which you entered. She smiles welcomingly at you and says, "W-w-w-welcome to the S-s-s-sequester. Are you seeking a p-p-p-pleasant getaway?" The stutter takes you aback at first, and she seems to be a bit nervous about it. She seems a bit jumpy, like maybe others haven't been so kind to her over time. She offers to have one of her staff take you to a room or the in-house restaurant if you wish. Two such staff members, both young, well dressed, male humans step through the door on the left and stand at the ready to serve.
Before they enter the tavern Rasmus states, "Interesting, Guudwyn. That makes sense and could explain his otherworldly gaze. What if Xanros and I go back to the door in which the boy and the family walked. I could stay by the front, Xanros in the back. Then, Guudwyn and the others talk to the merchant. I am reluctant to split up, but I would hate to lose the only lead we have."
Before they enter the tavern Rasmus states, "Interesting, Guudwyn. That makes sense and could explain his otherworldly gaze. What if Xanros and I go back to the door in which the boy and the family walked. I could stay by the front, Xanros in the back. Then, Guudwyn and the others talk to the merchant. I am reluctant to split up, but I would hate to lose the only lead we have."
Due to travel, conversation, etc you are probably 15-20 minutes removed from the place where the boy went inside. Splitting up could work, but the timing may or may not make sense based on this information.
Keeping his voice low Xanros leans toward Rasmus, "They might have left the safe house already, we have committed ourselves to this lead for now we can go look at the safe house later. Like Guudwyn said lets find out what he MIGHT have taken first." Not wanting to draw attention to his elvish heritage Xanros waits patiently for someone else to ask about the merchant.
"I do agree with Xanros on this. It is best we stay together. First most, we, as of yet, do not entirely know who or what we are dealing with. Secondly, I believe in strength in numbers at this point."
"On another note, the merchant will most likely make a monetary offer. Being of priestly grooming, my experience is minimal in these manners. Does anyone have a suggestion regarding the type of reward that we are expecting?"
"Also, unless there is objection, should I speak for our party?"
"Also, unless there is objection, should I speak for our party?"
Xanros smiles bitterly, "I would say Rasmus and I should avoid social contact as much as we can. I am out of my element here, so I am fine with you doing the talking."
As Guudwyn walks up the stairs noticing the finery and elegance of the inn, he secretly wishes that they were all better dressed and not looking like they are ready for travel and/or combat. He finally accepts the circumstances though, thinking what's done is done.
"W-w-w-welcome to the S-s-s-sequester. Are you seeking a p-p-p-pleasant getaway?"
Guudwyn smiles toward the young woman, hiding suspicion of her disability.
"Thank you for your hospitality," Guudwyn smiles and nods. "Please excuse our appearance. I realize that this is a fine establishment and we would not want to soil Your beautiful elegance," he eyes the young woman directly trying to discreetly pay her a compliment, "but we were hoping to speak to a guest of yours. I believe he is a merchant dealing in spices and gems, and has recently arrived. I would be most appreciative if you could sit us near his table."
Guudwyn smiles toward the young woman, hiding suspicion of her disability."Thank you for your hospitality," Guudwyn smiles and nods. "Please excuse our appearance. I realize that this is a fine establishment and we would not want to soil Your beautiful elegance," he eyes the young woman directly trying to discreetly pay her a compliment, "but we were hoping to speak to a guest of yours. I believe he is a merchant dealing in spices and gems, and has recently arrived. I would be most appreciative if you could sit us near his table."
To all appearances the young lady's disability seems quite real. Either it is or she is a consummate actress with much practice in the area.
As you toss the silver the two staff members catch theirs and look at you gratefully. The young woman, on the other hands, seems surprised by the action and jumps in surprise as she reaches for the coin and it falls to the floor. She toops to retrieve the token and with a swift motion tosses it towards the staff member to her right. He, looking surprised, smiles happily and gives a 'you only got one and I got two' look to the other young man.
The woman looks over the group with an appraising eye. She then looks at Guudwyn, smiles sweetly, and says, "M-m-my ap-p-pologies gentlemen. I'm a b-b-bit of a clutz, you see. You must be speaking of Tunly Sureblood. He is quite p-p-popular at the moment. He arrived just a bit ago and already has had two visitors other than yourself. You may wait in the restaurant if you wish. The food is fantastic, though..." She pauses a minute before continuing, "You're not really meeting the official dress code, are you? Hmmm. Or, if you would like, you may rent a room where you could speak with him more privately and I could have him brought to you. W-w-which d-d-do you p-p-prefer?"
Remember this is a high class location, and probably more so than most, so items aren't likely to be cheap. Just a warning. :)
Guudwyn studies the young woman, curious as to why she did not keep the coin she picked up.
"A private room is an excellent idea. This would allow us to have our conversation, and we would not disturb your distinguished clientele. I must admit, though, I am new to Barren Falls and currently with meager currency. May I ask, in advance, the cost?"
"Guudwyn, I could certainly help with the cost of a private room. I think it would make the merchant feel more at ease to speak to us in private."
Guudwyn turns and nods at Rasmus in agreement, "You are right my friend. A private audience is important." He turns back to the young woman. "Please reserve the room in question. Thank you again for your gracious hospitality."
Rasmus doesn't hear Guudwyn's comment. He is struck by the simple beauty of the inn. The scent from the rose petals, the fine woodwork, and the luxurious furniture consume his attention. What strikes him most is the scrollwork on one of the hardwood chairs. Its curves are delicate, belying the intrinsic strength of the rosewood from which it was hewn. The deep, golden red of the woodgrain seems to glow from within, only interrupted by the areas of heavy wear which Rasmus sees as a mark of distinction caused by numerous patrons seeking comfort in its arms. The convent Rasmus grew up in was a utilitarian place. The function of items was their only concern; aesthetics were useless and only served as distraction. This chair, albeit functional as well, had a quality that resonated deep within Rasmus. This human land, this society filled with rascism, fear, and bitterness was still capable of producing an object of sublime beauty. His heartbeat quickened as he felt the slightest touch of hope. It slowed only when he thought of his own dark appearance, his lack of outward beauty. The brief feeling of hope vanished quickly as Rasmus wondered if he would ever know the root of his curse.
Boeler stands near Rasmus quite confused, not being the best of listeners he only has a dim grasp on what is going on. He turns to Rasmus and tugs at his . Who is this baron fellow? Are we concerned with him? Who are we trying to talk to?
The young woman leaves to prepare the room. When Guudwyn views Rasmus, he notices he is distant and follows his gaze. 'I guess he has not seen elegance and the furnishings of high-society before,' he thinks to himself. Guudwyn has a hard time comprehending the amazed and appreciative expression on his friend's face. Guudwyn thinks again, 'I guess there is beauty in these furnishings.' Growing up in the minimalist atmosphere of the hidden shrine in Crag, the lectures on survival and secrecy took precedence over finery. 'I could probably learn alot from my new friend. I guess there is a joy to life that can be found even if it does not include the completion of finite goals.'
Then he notices Boeler tugging at Rasmus making inquiries as to why we are here. "My friend," he starts, "We are seeking an audience with the merchant who had an item stolen." Then whispering, "This item may or may not have a significance involving the appearance of Rasmus and/or the strangness of the boy earlier today."
"Yes, Boeler, what Guudwyn says is true. This merchant may know more about my...situation. If not, we at the very least, have a wrong to right. Something was stolen from him and we should try to retrieve it for him."
Rasmus looks at his little friend curiously. He had read about the small races in a book in the convent library but had only witnessed one such person, a dwarf delivering stones for the convent wall. Boeler was much smaller, both in height and width.
"So, my little friend Boeler, you said you were a monk carrying on in the traditions of a long line of similarly thinking individuals. Where did you receive your training? Do you believe in a deity or follow a strict code of ethics of your own? I have always admired people such as yourself, with the discipline to train body as well as mind." Rasmus hopes the stuttering lady takes her time coming back so that the relatively quiet Boeler has time to answer.
Boeler stands up proudly, "I was taught by my father. He was a great warrior but alas, his greatness went unnoticed by the big folk." His expression changing rapidly, he looks somewhat downcast and suddenly very bright. "I follow no god, I believe that depending on a deity is a sign of weakness and should never get very far in my adventures if I have to rely on some God."
He look at you contently and says "is there any thing else you would like to know?"
Guudwyn views the halfling with surprise at his last statement. "Boeler, I am saddened to hear your lack of faith in a higher being. Heironeous, the Invincible One, has great honor and shows great courage to destroy the evil and wicked and aid those in need. I am a minor vessel of his power, but when I feel his presence, I am always comforted by the knowledge that I am doing good in this world. Hopefully we never see battle, but if this occurs, I will show you his blessing." Guudwyn hopes that he has not offended the halfling, and if the time arises that Boeler needs Heironeous's granted powers, the halfling will not shy away.
Boeler stands up proudly, "I was taught by my father. He was a great warrior but alas, his greatness went unnoticed by the big folk." His expression changing rapidly, he looks somewhat downcast and suddenly very bright. "I follow no god, I believe that depending on a deity is a sign of weakness and should never get very far in my adventures if I have to rely on some God."
He look at you contently and says "is there any thing else you would like to know?"
"Your father, he was a monk as well? Interesting. And am I to believe that neither of you studied at a monestary? What city did you grow up in and was this the same place that failed to notice your father's deeds?"
After Rasmus asks this of Boeler, Guudwyn responds with his statements above. As he does, Rasmus' red eyes stare at the floor as he considers his small friend's other statements about deities. Rasmus remembers the covert nature of his worship of Heironeous in a place wholly devoted to Wee Jas and the fear of discovery it perpetuated. Although, initially, he feels Boeler's statements may be derisive of his own piety, Rasmus understands that all beings have their own beliefs and that no one paradigm suits all.
"As for religion, Boeler, I have very deep feelings. But clearly understand this, I am no more dependent on Heironeous than he is on me. That would equate it with a relationship between people and it is much more divine and beautiful than any could be between say, a man and a wife or one friend to another. I do not depend on his presence, it is merely there, always with me and its power is very great. I have no fear of dependence, that would imply that the relationship is terminable. My relationship with the Invincible One is not."
"Please understand that I take no offense to your own beliefs, mine simply differ. It is unfortunate that the leaders of this land do not share the willingness to accept the differences inherent in all of us. I will someday see if I can do something about that."
"Please understand that I take no offense to your own beliefs, mine simply differ. It is unfortunate that the leaders of this land do not share the willingness to accept the differences inherent in all of us. I will someday see if I can do...
Guudwyn nods in agreement.
I look at the pyramid with wonder for a minute before my expression changes to one of both warieness and greed "I've never seen anything like it. Have any of you? What could be inside?"
"Your father, he was a monk as well? Interesting. And am I to believe that neither of you studied at a monestary?
Boeler looks slightly shocked that you may have doubted him, but carries on in a cautious tone. "I grew up in Lindendale a town far off of your maps. I follow no god simply because I was never taught to, But shall hold nothing against you if you do the same for me." He looks at you suspiciously for a moment and says:" Why so inquisitive? By the looks of it you have explaining to do yourself! How did you come by this town any way?" He looks at you patiently awaiting your answer.
"I follow no god, I believe that depending on a deity is a sign of weakness and should never get very far in my adventures if I have to rely on some God."
Xanros watches the exchange between Rasmus and Boeler, 'The little halfling definitely show some heart and I can relate with his religious beliefs. While stalking through the brush on a flanking maneuver while on patrol I never wanted to be relying on some god I couldn't see or hear.'
Xanros walks over to the wall and positions himself so he can keep an eye on the door to their back.
While keeping watch Xanros falls into his own thoughts, 'I know some people say they can feel and hear their gods and I have been on the healing end of their power, but these people are built differently or something. I will leave the Theology to others and depend on my skills to keep me alive.'
Guudwyn studies the young woman, curious as to why she did not keep the coin she picked up.
"A private room is an excellent idea. This would allow us to have our conversation, and we would not disturb your distinguished clientele. I must admit, though, I am new to Barren Falls and currently with meager currency. May I ask, in advance, the cost?"
As far a Guudwyn is aware there is no reason for her not to accept the money. It may simply be that she only deals in 'larger' denominations or it may be that she likes to promote certain competition amongst those who work for her.
For Guudwyn:
She answers, "A r-r-room can c-c-certainly be arranged for your gentlemen." She smiles and continues, "The cost, and very fair for such comfort in this day and age I might add, is a mere 5gp per day for accomodations that rival those obtainable in Carik, the fair capital of our land. And," She pauses for a moment, "include a private sitting area, snacks, juices, and the like. You may also have d-d-dinner served in your room if you like. Though the dinner is an additional fee, the service is not."
She takes a moment to collect your payment and then sends the gentleman who received 2sp before up to prepare the room and has the other one (the one you would like to deliver the letter) wait with you. A few minutes later she has the messenger show all of you to your room. As you walk up the stairs you can't help but be impressed by the fine woodwork. It seems to, if possible, increase in quality as you ascend. The young man takes you past what you suspect are smaller rooms to the end of a well appointed hallway. You stand before a beautiful and what appears to be almost magicically so, door. The boy opens it for you and leads you in. You are now in what, for this day and age, is a palatial series of rooms. It consists of three rooms (bedroom, dining room, sitting room), a walk in closet, and a private privy. The sitting room currently contains a mahogany table and chairs. Fresh fruit and carafes of fresh melon juice and water sit upon the table along with a vase of fresh daffodils.
The boy says, "Sirs, would you prefer me to wait or to return at an appointed time?" He then stands and patiently waits upon your answer.
After the young woman describes the accomodations, Guudwyn smiles and says, "The accomodations sound delightful. As for dinner, my companions and I will decide after our meeting with Mr. Sureblood." Guudwyn then reaches into his coinpouch and retieves 5 gold pieces to give to her.
The male attendant then takes them upstairs once the room is prepared. This time, remembering Rasmus's keen eye for art, Guudwyn does take notice to the intricate beauty of the woodworked bannisters and walls. Guudwyn is slightly more impressed by the room, or he should think rooms, arranged for them.
To the boy's inquiry of staying, Guudwyn responds, "I would like some time to draft a letter of introduction for the good merchant. Please return in fifteen minutes."
When the boy exits, Guudwyn hastly pulls out 2 pieces of parchment, his vial of ink, pen, wax, and signet ring. On the first piece of parchment to quickly scrawls...
Keep silent. Do not eat the food. Look for spies. Gimble, if you are able to search for magic, please do so.
Guudwyn shows the letter to his companions then folds it and puts it in his cloak pocket. He then prepares the other paper to start drafting his letter. Before he sits, he starts searching the walls, paintings, rooms, and anything else he can think of. Guudwyn thinks, 'Back in Crag, we always had to be wary of spies.'
After his search, Guudwyn sits to draft his letter while his companions complete their search or other tasks of their choosing.
Part way through his letter, Guudwyn sits up and walks over to the display of food. He puts the food as close together as possible, reaches into the folds of his clothing to touch his holy symbol, and prays quietly to Heironeous. "Oh, Great Invincible One, Bless this food and drink so it is safe for your loyal followers, so we may serve your future needs." Then he rearranges the food and drink as best he can to their original locations.
As the companions walk up the stairs towards their room the look on most of their faces was kind of puzzling. 'Why do they seem to like this place so much? I agree it is fancy but what a waste of money to build and stay here.'
Xanros looks around and remembers his day spent in the military. Everything is built for functionality and purpose nothing like this, he is used to bare walls and simple cots in his old barracks. He hated being in those barracks, but not because they were plain and undecorated, he hated them for the same reason he disliked any enclosed space.
Nothing compares to the open freedom of taking the watch in the open night sky or finding a soft patch of ground to make you bed, indoors your options are limited, your senses constrained, not so in the forest. Xanros looks out one of the windows and wonders what Brom is doing right now, probably scolding some poor kid for not seeing the smallest detail. That thought brings a small smile to his face, 'Hate to admit it but I kind of miss that harsh military life, a lot simpler that is.'
Xanros snaps back from his reminiscing and the boy leaves and Guudwyn starts writing his letter.
Keep silent. Do not eat the food. Look for spies. Gimble, if you are able to search for magic, please do so.
'Excellent he is preparing for the worst, my kind of man. He doesn't seem like he has had any military training but some one in his life must have.'
Xanros nods at Guudwyn and starts searching the room for peep holes or secret doors.
Why so inquisitive? By the looks of it you have explaining to do yourself! How did you come by this town any way?" He looks at you patiently awaiting your answer.
As they walk towards the room, Rasmus tells Boeler of his past.
Hearing Guudwyn's suggestion to search the room, Rasmus casts Detect Magic, standing near the door aiming it near the center of the room. He is pleased that he is able to use his divine powers freely in this room, something he was unable to do in the street.
Keeping in mind that you are all currently not talking, what you choose to share may be limited, so:
The group sees Rasmus quietly utter a prayer of some sort and then observe in his features a look of intense focus as he scans the room. His eyes come to rest on the ceiling above the rooms and he stares intently for nearly half a minute without moving.
For Rasmus:
Xanros moves cautiously around the room studying each portion closely. Something in the corner of the ceiling between the sitting and dining rooms catches his attention.
For Xanros:
The food now purified, Guudwyn feels confident it would be good to eat. In fact, it's mere appearance makes the mouth begin to water. Clearly this is the best of the best from the local, and possibly far away, markets.
There are several areas in each room in which to make yourselves comfortable and this apartment could easily house all of you.
Rasmus clears his throat loudly to get the attention of the others. Drawing close to Guudwyn, he silently beckons for the pen, ink, and parchment on which his cleric friend wrote his earlier warnings. Rasmus quickly scrawls "illusion...very large...on ceiling" on the parchment and covertly shows it to the rest one by one.
Rasmus thinks that this is actually fairly expected. A place such as this, with such finery, certainly has the gold to pay for powerful magics. He guesses that the illusion is used to watch over the shady dealings that occur behind these closed doors. Perhaps this is how the unscrutable Baron and his minions keep a firm hold over the city. He will have to watch his words carefully. Rasmus decides to keep his red eyes downcast on the floor and his helmet covered face looking away from the ceiling illusion.
Rasmus then states slightly louder than his normal speaking voice that, "This room seems secure. I have performed a scan for magic and have found no such auras."
Rasmus quickly scrawls "illusion...very large...on ceiling"
Whispering, Boeler says "Hiding what?"
*Knock*
"Please Enter." Seeing the boy enter, Guudwyn says, "Hello again, my young friend. What a wonderful room and spread of food you all have laid out for us. Tell me, out of these different juices, which is your favorite?" After the boy answers, "Guudwyn states, please take a break and have a glass." Guudwyn watches the boy's reaction. If the boy is reluctant, he tries to determine if it is just because the boy is working, or if the food and drink was really poisoned, would the boy know such a thing.
Guudwyn insists for another minute either until the boy takes a drink or Guudwyn says, "Ah, my boy, your manners are too well kept. I am beginning to think the juices are no good." Guudwyn says this with a smile and a slight laugh.
"Alright then," Guudwyn continues, "Now for the reason that you are here. Please deliver this letter to Mr. Tunly Sureblood who is resting in your dining area." Guudwyn hands the boy a rolled up piece of parchment sealed with wax. "And this is for you." Guudwyn flips the boy a gold piece. "Now save that for your future." Guudwyn finishes with a wink.
The letter to Mr. Tunly Sureblood:
It is my understanding you were robbed of a special artifact this morning. At your convenience, I invite you to my rooms to discuss the matter and enjoy some appetizers. I believe we can come to an agreement to gain the item's safe return to its owner.
The boy relaying this message can lead you to my quarters.
Sincerly,
Guudwyn Valoenus
Once the boy leaves, and the companions are relatively alone.
"So my friends. What kind of fee do we expect to ask from this wealthy merchant? Does anybody have expertise in these matters or know a going rate? I figure there should be some type of retainment fee and then a larger completion fee. Any suggestions? I realize that an amount we come up with now may change depending on our meeting with the merchant, but I do believe that it would be prudent to have a base amount to negotiate with that will satisfy our requirements."
*Knock*
"Please Enter." Seeing the boy enter, Guudwyn says, "Hello again, my young friend. What a wonderful room and spread of food you all have laid out for us. Tell me, out of these different juices, which is your favorite?" After the boy answers, "Guudwyn states, please take a break and have a glass." Guudwyn watches the boy's reaction. If the boy is reluctant, he tries to determine if it is just because the boy is working, or if the food and drink was really poisoned, would the boy know such a thing.
Guudwyn insists for another minute either until the boy takes a drink or Guudwyn says, "Ah, my boy, your manners are too well kept. I am beginning to think the juices are no good." Guudwyn says this with a smile and a slight laugh.
"Alright then," Guudwyn continues, "Now for the reason that you are here. Please deliver this letter to Mr. Tunly Sureblood who is resting in your dining area." Guudwyn hands the boy a rolled up piece of parchment sealed with wax. "And this is for you." Guudwyn flips the boy a gold piece. "Now save that for your future." Guudwyn finishes with a wink.
The letter to Mr. Tunly Sureblood:
** spoiler omitted **
The boy at first states very clearly that his boss has made it very clear that he is not to sample any of the wares as they are for his 'betters' as she puts it. Guudwyn (nor anyone else for that matter) doesn't sense anything untoward about his resistance. When it becomes clear that he will offend you if he doesnt try a bit, he reluctantly agrees and with no wincing whatsoever takes the smallest drink, apparently to appease his client.
He is very attentive as you describe his task. When you flip him the gold, his eyes go wide and he thanks you profusely before nearly running into the doorway in his excitement to deliver the message. He says over his shoulder that he is "sure that Mr. Sureblood will be pleased to meet you very soon," and that he will return shortly.
Not surprisingly, everything looks the same to you. :)
Taking a moment to inconspicuously look up, Gimble and Xanros can make out that the ceiling seems to be false. They have a hard time seeing through the illusion however . Without interacting with the object, it is difficult to tell more than that about 1/4 of the ceilings are false.
"I would suggest that we ask for at least 20 gold peices each and no more than 50 gold peices each."
Xanros reads Ramus's note, 'That explains some things, those holes must be used to hear the conversations they are spying on'.
Xanros takes another piece of paper and writes They can hear us too and shows it to everyone as discreetly as possible.
After the boy leaves with the note to the merchant Xanros settles in a seat against the wall and listens to the conversation.
"I don't really care what we get paid as long as it's something but I have no bases for this type of thing, I am just used to serving a country without pay. I am fine with what ever you decide."
"It would be best to find out what it is we are seeking before negotiating a price for its retrieval. Regardless of what the item is, however, 20 gold would seem too little for such a dangerous task, we would be dealing with thieves...or worse. Plus, I believe it is proper in negotiations to start high. But, saying this, I trust in your fine diplomatic skills, Guudwyn, and feel comfortable having you speak for us as a group."
As Rasmus is saying this, he grabs a piece of fruit of the table and paces around the room. As he walks, he throws the piece of fruit up in the air, catching it a moment later. When he makes his way under the illusionary ceiling, he throws the fruit harder, with enough force to make it strike the fake ceiling. His red eyes watch the fruit closely to see the result.
Guudwyn, thinking about Rasmus's spellcasting, walks over to his companion shortly after the boy leaves. "My friend, I know your devotion is strong, but I did not realize that you share similar blessings. I still have much to learn about you. Hopefully, our adventures will keep us strong and together for a long while so we can discuss and discover who you really are."
"It would be best to find out what it is we are seeking before negotiating a price for its retrieval. Regardless of what the item is, however, 20 gold would seem too little for such a dangerous task, we would be dealing with thieves...or worse. Plus, I believe it is proper in negotiations to start high. But, saying this, I trust in your fine diplomatic skills, Guudwyn, and feel comfortable having you speak for us as a group."
"You are right in regard to negotiations. I let the question rest on the air to gather a feel of your reactions to monetary gain. I have an idea in mind and will adjust it accordingly during our meeting with the merchant. Hopefully my decision will be satisfactory."
After Xanros provides additional information about the room's flaws, Guudwyn takes out and unfolds the used piece of parchment and writes.
Unless better ideas, when merchant arrives, discuss normally any questions, but vaguely, Rasmus, maybe stay in the corner or another room to avoid questions directed at you. I will try to have the merchant write details down. If they are listening, we should say only what we need to. Any thoughts?
Then Guudwyn shifts the parchment for any of his companions to write any thoughts or ideas. He also brings out a fresh piece of parchment for when the merchant arrives.
"Perhaps one of us could pretend to be mute and deaf, allowing us to ask him to write things down without seeming overly odd."
"Perhaps one of us could pretend to be mute and deaf, allowing us to ask him to write things down without seeming overly odd."
Boeler turns to Gimble and says brightly "I could do that! I don't like speaking much anyway."
"Perhaps one of us could pretend to be mute and deaf, allowing us to ask him to write things down without seeming overly odd."Boeler turns to Gimble and says brightly "I could do that! I don't like speaking much anyway."
Looking at his little companions and speaking quietly, "We could do this, but I am loath to giving fabricated information. I believe as long as we keep important information away from prying eyes and ears, we can still have a normal and casual conversation with Mr. Sureblood. By doing this, it will help alleviate suspicion from our potentially listening hosts and our perspective client. As long as we can get him to write down the details of the object in question, information to secondary parties can hopefully be kept to a minimum."
"On another thought," Guudwyn responds a moment later. He pulls out his used parchment again, looking for enough space to write. He then picks up the ink pen and scrawls...
Do we all share a language other than common? I also speak celestial & halfling.
Guudwyn then gives his companions a turn.