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"I could go and check to see what may be available for me to do. I haven't been back for all that long and there is some tension between the enclave and I but that is a long story. I will go there and see what I can come up with."
Sari returns to the Deneith enclave, which is uncharacteristically small here in Stormreach. As she approaches, she sees one of the house members argunig with appear to be two seperate groups, a small, bookish looking man in an allegedly regal looking robe that seems much more like a dress, and a half-orc.
Listen Check: DC 16
You manage to listen in on the conversation from an unobtrusive distance. It is apparent that the bookish man is attempting to hire guards for an expedition. The half-orc works for Tharashk and is convinced that the man would find more value in a Tharashk guide, who could provide the same, or better in his opinion, service as a guard. Finally the Deneith agent is trying to get the man inside to negotiate rates, but the half-orc is blocking the way.
If you fail the listen check, you can avoid the confrontation, or you can walk up and participate, your choice.
"Excuse me!" I say stepping towards the half-orc and the bookish man.
"We are travelers who are at the moment unemployed and seeking a source of income. What would we be doing? I asure you our rates are quite reasonable and we are quite flexible in what roles we can perform." with a smile.
"I could go and check to see what may be available for me to do. I haven't been back for all that long and there is some tension between the enclave and I but that is a long story. I will go there and see what I can come up with."Sari returns to the Deneith enclave, which is uncharacteristically small here in Stormreach. As she approaches, she sees one of the house members argunig with appear to be two seperate groups, a small, bookish looking man in an allegedly regal looking robe that seems much more like a dress, and a half-orc.
Listen Check: DC 16
** spoiler omitted **If you fail the listen check, you can avoid the confrontation, or you can walk up and participate, your choice.
"Excuse me!" I say stepping towards the half-orc and the bookish man.
"We are travelers who are at the moment unemployed and seeking a source of income. What would we be doing? I asure you our rates are quite reasonable and we are quite flexible in what roles we can perform." with a smile.
Sari walks up to Merrick. "I am Sari d'Deneith and we are indeed looking for work. I am with the bladesmark guild and I think we will indeed offer you the services that you are looking for." Sari looks over at the Deneith agent. "I will perform the services needed assuming that will not be a problem." Sari then turns to the half-orc. "Is there something that I may help you with?"
Beren, restless about losing his quarry, was unable to look at the bigger picture. He had a task, but lacked the means and was unable to come to a feasible conclusion on how to carry out the job. It was Rokko and Ruuz with clearer heads to offer alternatives. Beren like the goblin’s idea regarding exploring a cleft. He also didn’t mind it if Sari found him work. As long as it paid. While Sari searched out her house enclave, Beren practiced. Down in the basement, Beren moved equipment and furniture to have open space. He started some stretching exercises which turned into double sword maneuvers to keep his skills focused and his muscles tone. After a work out, he went back to his room and looked out the window to search for the eagle that sometimes visited the tree outside.
"Yeah, I'm not sure that we're cut out for head hunting Sahuagin under the ocean just yet ... I'm for Rokko's idea."
When Beren picks up his training routine again, Valessa asks is he can teach her a few things about tracking, and give some more archery lessons.
"Would someone like to accompany me to the local hostelries - we can "research" this mysterious hole in the ground?"
“Yeah, we never did get that drink before, so let’s head to the bar, and Rokko, you can tell us more of your mysterious crevice…” Valessa is feeling in somewhat of a silly mood.
“Oh, and when we get back, we had better sign that contract and put aside two fifty gold for Q, and the rent.”
“Yeah, we never did get that drink before, so let’s head to the bar, and Rokko, you can tell us more of your mysterious crevice…”
Hmmm, thinks Rokko, if you play your cards right tonight....
"Yes indeed - drinks on me, Valessa."
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For Sari, and anyone with her:
The Deneith agent seems quite happy to see anyone intervene, and especially a marked member of the House. Not that anyone in the House currently considers Sari to be the first choice of rescuer, but there is a time to beg and a time to choose.
"Ah, Sari, glad you are here. This gentleman, Professor Ghorkin, of Morgrave has arrived just today. Apparently Morgrave factors here in town have reported to him the opening of a sink hole nearby, and the ramblings of the only one of the original 'explorers'," the last carries a derisive tone which is stretched out by rolled eyes and an eventual sigh. "No matter," the agent continues, "since the Professor seems to have the location well in hand, he doesn't need a guide, what he does need is some strong sword arms to protect him and his party." It is clear that at least some of what is being said is directed at the half-orc, who responds with a snort.
"Professor, this is Sari d'Deneith, who has only recently returned from an extended expedition into the jungles. She is a warrior in good standing with the blademarks guild, and a House Heir, of which we expect great things."
The professor, an elderly human of obviously scholarly endeavour looks you up and down, then turns to look at the half-orc, and then finally back to the Deneith agent, "we'll take her."
For the group looking for info on the Sink hole
You skate from tavern to tavern, tasting of a dozen different taps. You are amazed by the number of times you meet the 'Heroes of the Tethered Wench' each of which single handedly fought of the Sahuagin and saved the lives of--. You are collectively not impressed.
With everyone out of the house looking into their next adventure Ruuz starts gathering the boxes of alchemy gear that was delivered this morning and moves them to the basement.
Ruuz is pleasantly surprised that some one has already cleaned most of the stuff up and he starts setting up his lab. 'Always wanted a lab in the basement of some house. Seems more sinister and mysterious.'
Ruuz grabs several of his alchemy books and gets to work making some potions.
After a couple attempts and only one minor explosion, 'Good thing I can just grow my hair back on command' Ruuz has a small collection of potions sitting on a table in the basement.
After the man hires us I ask "How much are you paying? When and where does our job begin?"
Later I go down to the basement and say "Impressive. I'm surprised at the amount of progress you've made in o little time. At some point, if its not to much trouble, could you make a few potions of Eagle's Splendor and Owl's Wisdom for me? It would help boost my ability to talk my way out of sticky situations."
Hmmph - I hope there is loot. That certainly isn't going to pay the rent.
"I hope we find another source of income and mabye some treasure as we go." I think "3 gold a day isn't going to cut it.". "I smile at the Deneith representative and ask "How long is this assignment expected to last?"
Beren is happy to give Valessa any hands-on-training she requests.
While waiting for the others to return, Beren looks out his window for the eagle. If the eagle is spotted, he tries to coax it closer with some food. If the eagle does show interest, he uses his Wild Empathy ability in an attempt to form a bond.
Pay will be handled through House Deneith, apparently Sari has just hired all the volunteers on as temporary Gray Blades of the Blademarks. Your pay, given the expected rough conditions of a slight jungle trek, is 3gp/day each.
Sari looks towards Merrick. In a whisper, "I know this does not pay much but at least it is a start and you never know what other services will arise while we are doing this. I think this is a wise decision and we should do this. What do you think, Merrick?"
"I agree we should take it. 3 gold a day isn't much but it is better than what we're earning wandering the streets of Stromreach."
"I agree we should take it. 3 gold a day isn't much but it is better than what we're earning wandering the streets of Stromreach."
"Professor, this is Sari d'Deneith, who has only recently returned from an extended expedition into the jungles. She is a warrior in good standing with the blademarks guild, and a House Heir, of which we expect great things."
The professor, an elderly human of obviously scholarly endeavour looks you up and down, then turns to look at the half-orc, and then finally back to the Deneith agent, "we'll take her."
Sari turns back to the Professor and the Deneith agent. "We will take this task that has been laid out in front of us. When and where do we start?"
“Shyea know …. Rokkoko… I ashctually don hate you tha musch, shya know?”
Valessa after a few drinks…. However, before she gets to that stage, she and Rokko ask around at various bars, seeking further information.
"Alas, my beautiful lady, I mean to take me and my assistants out to the site at first light tomorrow, on a scouting foray, we will determine exactly what gear we need, return to purchase it, then off again as soon as possible."
"Meet us here at an hour past dawn, and we'll see if your delicate flower wilts in the morning chill."
The man speaks like my history professor in college who averaged 5 words per second for the entire 50 minute class, and said so much of substance that i determined he said an average of 5 words per second during a 50 minute class... YMMV
Spot for Sari and Merreck
28+
You notice that although he has turned and walked away, the Tharashk half-orc has deliberately lingered on the edge of ear shot.
"First light will be no trouble for us. Where should we meet you? Here?" I ask him in a respectful manner. Out of the corner of my mouth I mutter "Sari, that half-orc is still loitering around. I think he's listening to us. I think we should be ready for trouble. I don't trust House Tharashk at all."
Valessa and Rokko:
** spoiler omitted **
Right. Since I missed any previous information on the sink hole (must have been a spoiler I didn't get), Valessa will also ask Rokko to fill her in (to use a turn of phrase) on what he already knows.
"First light will be no trouble for us. Where should we meet you? Here?" I ask him in a respectful manner. Out of the corner of my mouth I mutter "Sari, that half-orc is still loitering around. I think he's listening to us. I think we should be ready for trouble. I don't trust House Tharashk at all."
"I agree, I am not fond of the House of Tharashk as well and I do feel there is something strange about that half-orc. We will warn the others about him so that if there are problems in the morning we will all be prepared."
"Yes yes, an hour past dawn, right here," his tone makes it obvious he does not like you.
Then he turns to Sari, and in a much softer tone, "and you my dear shall have the opportunity to adventure with a scholar of the finest caliber." He moves as though to kiss your hand, then thinks better of it, and awkwardly shakes with you instead.
Finally he turns to the Deneith agent, "Let us go sign your papers and contracts and whatever."
The two of them start to walk inside, last chance for questions.
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Right. Since I missed any previous information on the sink hole (must have been a spoiler I didn't get), Valessa will also ask Rokko to fill her in (to use a turn of phrase) on what he already knows.Valessa and Rokko:
** spoiler omitted **
In that case you have collected that a Sinkhole was discovered by some "explorers" a few days before the Tethered Wench incident. Only one of the group came out, and he was driven mad by the "horrors" inside.
The people who heard about it on the boat know enough to find the place.
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Beren is happy to give Valessa any hands-on-training she requests.
While waiting for the others to return, Beren looks out his window for the eagle. If the eagle is spotted, he tries to coax it closer with some food. If the eagle does show interest, he uses his Wild Empathy ability in an attempt to form a bond.
The eagle lands on a post nearby, responding to your lure, and your gentle nature.
You notice a string tied around one foot, but it is not yet ready to let you that close to it.
"Oh, I pocketed something when we were checking out those bodies. I figured that it would be more likely that we could make se of it, whether its a clue or not, than the gaurds. Do you have any insight into what it is? Anything special or is it just a ring?" I ask Ruz.
.... any insight into what it is? Anything special or is it just a ring?" I ask Ruz.
Ruuz looks at the ring using the magic inside him to look at the rings inner workings.
"Well that should be useful for when we go hunting the Sea Devils." I say as Ruz tells me what the ring is.
Ruuz takes the ring and climbs upstairs and find Merreck "It helps you swim, which should come in handy in a couple months I am guessing."
I am.
Beren looks at Sari at the mention of a paying job. Before he even knows what it is, he says, "Ye, I'll go. It pays, and it will get me out of this city. How I long for freedom of this house and civilization." (Patented toothy grin on face)
“Oooh, I am going to hate myself in the morning,” groans Valessa, as she and Rokko stumble back in later that night. “Sorry Beren, I think that training session is going to have to wait till morning.”
She sighs as she plonks herself down into a stuffed armchair. “So, how’d the shopping go Ruuz? Get everything you need? Oh, Rokko and I tried to find out more about the sinkhole you heard about on the boat … not much, hole in the ground, unimaginable horrors, you get the idea. No real idea if unimaginable treasures come as part of the package.”
As she gets herself a mug of water, she hears talk of a paying job. “Oh, Sari and Merreck got us a job? Well done, I knew we could trust those two. When do we leave? Who are we working for?”
Valessa waits expectantly for an answer.
Dragonmann:
...
...
oh well, I knew that would be coming sooner or later!
As she gets herself a mug of water, she hears talk of a paying job. “Oh, Sari and Merreck got us a job? Well done, I knew we could trust those two. When do we leave? Who are we working for?”Valessa waits expectantly for an answer.
Sari whom has returned to the house with Merreck sits down for a bit of a rest and a mug of water with Valessa. Sari fills in Valessa about the strange encounter they had at the Denieth Enclave. "Merreck and I met and were hired by a gentleman, a Professor Ghorkin,of Morgrave to be exact. Apparently Morgrave factors here in town have reported to him the opening of a sink hole that is nearby. Since the Professor seems to know where the sink hole is he doesn't need guides but rather need us as strong sword arms to protect himself and the rest of his party. We are getting paid 3gps/day each and are hired as White Blades of the Blademarks. Yes I know that is not much but I am hoping that something else will come along while we are "guarding" them that will spark an interest in us earning more money. We are to met an hour past dawn at the Deneith Enclave. We would be honored to have you accompany us on this little task, Valessa."
“What!?” says Valessa sharply, looking up in horror at Sari. “Did you say Professor Ghorkin? Horrible, lecherous old pervert, white beard, talks at a thousand words a minute? Falsely charming? Thinks he’s the gods’ gift to women and Xendrick history? Oh no…” Valessa groans, looking quite ill, and not just from the amount she had to drink tonight.
“This is terrible! I know this guy, and not only is a he a disgusting, dirty old lecher, he once tried to tell me that I would never amount to anything in the field of Xendrick archaeology! And now he’s going after our sink-hole? Olladra’s grin, I can’t believe this! Rokko and I have just spent all night researching this place, and Professor bloody Whore-kin is going there in the morning?! Unbelievable!!”
Valessa has worked herself into a right rage, but takes a few deep gulps of air and manages to calm down a little.
“Alright, I’m sorry, I’ll try to be calm. But Sari, you better give me all the details… You two have signed on as guards? Is it a binding contract? Is there any way …. Any way we can get there before him? What about it people, Prof Dorkin wouldn’t be hitting this place if he didn’t think there were some valuable artefacts there … What if we beat him to it? It shouldn’t be hard, the man once got lost in the Morgrave Library! All I want is my name to a significant find, then I’ll go and shove it up his …. I mean, you know what I mean!
“I’ve half a mind to go with him as guards and then do away with him once we get out into the jungle … but beating him to the prize might be better. What do you people think? I can tell you this much, I don’t think Bore-kin’s going to let us keep any loot we find, he’ll tag it all as “finds of archaeological significance”, depend on it.”
Valessa slumps back into her chair, looking at the astonished faces of her companions.
I sit in stunned silence for a minute, thinking "I haven't known her for long but she didn't seem the type to have outbursts like that." Then I look around at everyone else and say "Well... I'm not opposed to beating the proffessor to the Sinkhole. You don't seem like the typical Morgrave student (no offense, but most of your kind that I've run into before haven't been the most upstanding of characters). I wouldn't mind making sure that the stuff got into the right hands, particularly not if it meant that some gold got intomy hands. The only snag I can see is that Sari and I have just been hired as Deneith whiteblades. While not the ideal job I'd prefer not to burn any bridges, if you know what I mean. I imagine not showing for our first job would but a stain on our record." After a few moments I say "Wait, here's an idea; does anyone have any moral or ethincal issues with using poison? Cuz if no one does than we could poison the proffessor (not to kill him!) just to make him a little ill. That would get the expedition cancelled for a few days and then we could all go and explore this Sinkhole and then once the professor recovered we could charge him to pay us, becuase I'm guessing he would still want to go, so he would be paying us to guard him a while he explored somehwere we'd already explored. Then we'd even (hopefully) retain a good reputation with the House. We could even hit him witha poisoned dart while on our wy and make it look like a scorpion bit him or something. Well what do you think?"
<shrugs> "I'd prefer to go without the Professor, so we can claim any loot. What are the terms in the Deneith contract about who owns any finds? And I'm no great friend of Morgrave either. Not sure about poisoning him - though it may work...."