I'll sit down at a table in the corner, and remove the doctor's mask. I'll wait for the bar maid to finish whatever task shes doing currently and then wave her over and order a glass of wine.
Perception to see if I over heard the armored fellow talking about a gathering of adventurer types.
I'll stand up and walk towards the group of patrons and the barmaid.
Any of you heard of any work needing done?
After feeling somewhat belittled by the bar customer, I quickly engage in conversation with the man approaching.
"Yes in fact, I am here regarding a job.I Heard of a gnome that was collecting some men to guard something of importance. In my opinion, it seems like easy money. But...you can never be too sure. Sorry, I have not introduced myself. I am Damion Ettelbreck, of the Ettelbreck merchant family. And I my call you?
"I reckon' we're all here for the hairy little guys musing job er whatver? Have a seat, least that pretty lass'll come by more often with a buncha fellers sittin. Names Roderick, I aim to be a problem solver, and loved up by the end o the night."
*Cracks a half-drunken grin*
"Names Elessar, Doctor and Sailor by trade. Guess I'll wait around see if this gnome shows up with more information on this job."
* Have a seat at a nearby table and order another glass of wine.*
My gaze turns to the rough looking cowboy.
"I apologize for my rudeness.....sir....I thought you were bothering that woman. Anyway, if we are to be working together, this is no way to start a business relationship. Can I buy you a drink?"
Once Victor finally convinces the barman to give him the reccomendation by doing grunt labor (which he is quite adept at) he will head over to the same place that the others are gathering. Knowing it is likely to be crowded he enters with the hood of his cape obscuring the right half of his scarred face and sits down at a table and pushes a few silvers across it to order a drink. He sits quietly eyeing the other patrons and doesn't speak to anyone directly. He leans his massive black greatsword against the chair he is sitting on and faces the entrance, preferably with is back close to a wall.
Strength check for carrying water
With two new customers to attend to, the barmaid straightens her apron and begins serving drinks and answering questions to the best of her ability. Within a minute or two a portly bartender emerges from the dish room. He begins filling mugs and barking orders to the barmaid.
Perception to see if I over heard the armored fellow talking about a gathering of adventurer types.
You plainly discern several words pertaining to a job of some sort. It becomes clear to you that some of these strange folk are gathering in expectation of employment. After speaking with Roderick and securing a seat, the barmaid quickly brings you some wine.
"Ah, how silly of me. My name is Izyk. It's a secret location? That seems...odd. Everyone knows where it is back home. Is it hidden for any particular reason?"
Inovay smiles coyly, but drops the charade. "Nah, silly. Everyone knows where the Arcane Academy is." She inclines her head to the south, deeper into the mage's quarter. "It's beyond the inner gates, not more than ten causeways from where we stand."
"Izyk, is it? It's a pleasure to meet you, then. And what are you hoping to find in the academy? Are you an initiate?"She continues to exchange words with you, and makes mention of a place of rest that many of her colleagues frequent: an inn and tavern by the name of the Gilded Galleon. According to her explanation, many sages and scholars visit this establishment to read, relax, and discuss matters of magical import.
"You really should go there some evening, it's just over the bend in the road, on the way to the docks. And you never know, you might be lucky enough to bump into me again!"
She makes a swift apology, explaining that she must depart to attend to scholastic matters. Before taking her leave, she gives you a quick peck on the cheek.
Once Victor finally convinces the barman to give him the reccomendation by doing grunt labor (which he is quite adept at) he will head over to the same place that the others are gathering. Knowing it is likely to be crowded he enters with the hood of his cape obscuring the right half of his scarred face and sits down at a table and pushes a few silvers across it to order a drink. He sits quietly eyeing the other patrons and doesn't speak to anyone directly. He leans his massive black greatsword against the chair he is sitting on and faces the entrance, preferably with is back close to a wall.
Strength check for carrying water
1d20+4
Strength check = 17: you handily haul the barrels into their proper locations, get the information from the brewmaster (after a few more uncouth comments), and make your merry way towards the Gilded Galleon, where your fortune awaits you.
Upon entering the establishment, you notice the aforementioned characters: A weather-beaten gun for hire, a tribal spellcaster of orcish heritage, an armored human nobleman, and an elven physician who is sipping a glass of chilled wine. The barmaid approaches you, inquiring if you'd like a drink.
Victor glares up at the barmaid through one milky eye and one brown one and curls his mouth to speak "Yesh I wihl haf shome of your shwill barwensh, noshing to shtrong perhapsh a dark wine if you haf any." I slide a few silver pieces to her and look back down at the table. After I recieve my flagon of wine I curl my fingers around the handle and glower at the others quickly gathering in the bar.
Inovay smiles coyly, but drops the charade. "Nah, silly. Everyone knows where the Arcane Academy is." She inclines her head to the south, deeper into the mage's quarter. "It's beyond the inner gates, not more than ten causeways from where we stand."
"Izyk, is it? It's a pleasure to meet you, then. And what are you hoping to find in the academy? Are you an initiate?"
She continues to exchange words with you, and makes mention of a place of rest that many of her colleagues frequent: an inn and tavern by the name of the Gilded Galleon. According to her explanation, many sages and scholars visit this establishment to read, relax, and discuss matters of magical import.
"You really should go there some evening, it's just over the bend in the road, on the way to the docks. And you never know, you might be lucky enough to bump into me again!"
She makes a swift apology, explaining that she must depart to attend to scholastic matters. Before taking her leave, she gives you a quick peck on the cheek.
"I see....no, I'm not an initiate, though I was a student at the Acadamae back home. I'm on my own now, looking to learn from whatever places I can. I figured that would be as good a place as any. Thanks for your help Inovay! Maybe I'll see you around some time."
*I take a look off into the southern distance, trying to remember the layout for later, still listening to her description of the inn. Another blush washes over my cheek as she departs, and after recovering my composure, I decide that since the sun is not long to set, I should seek out a room for the night. The Gilded Galleon sounds as decent a place as any, and if Inovay frequents it, then it can only be a mark in its favor.
Upon entering, I notice the group of men gathered, offering a meek greeting to any who turn to see me enter before sitting down at the empty end of the bar, addressing the barkeep when he looks my direction.*
"I see you're rather busy, but I was wondering if you had any rooms for the night?"
I be tinking dat the gnome you guys be looking for be ma friend Dirlish. He also be havin a job for me and Gui. But I be tinking dat dis not be such an easy job. It seems we be havin many warriors here and a couple of medicine men. Dat only be meaning one of two tings, eider we be goin to get sometin or we be tryin to stop someone else from gettin it.
* perception check to see macade's character walk in*
Upon entering, I notice the group of men gathered, offering a meek greeting to any who turn to see me enter before sitting down at the empty end of the bar, addressing the barkeep when he looks my direction.*
"I see you're rather busy, but I was wondering if you had any rooms for the night?"
Victor spies what appears to be a young magic user walk meekly into the bar, after observing him sit by himself at the end of the bar Victor stands abruptly and carries his flagon of red wine over and sits down next to Izyk and begins to speak.
"You haf the look of one who dabblesh in the magical artsh, at leasht a little" Victor attempts a smile that pulls the scarred and cracked flesh on his face tight and pats Izyk on the shoulder "Are ya here foh the guard job ash well friend? Well donsha worrah I'll make shhure no harm comesh to ya." Victor slides a few gold pieces to the barkeeper and gruffly instructs the barkeep "Make shhure my friend here hash ebry thing he needsh." Victor then rises and moves back to his solitary table seeming somewhat more relaxed.
I apologize for my rudeness.....sir....I thought you were bothering that woman. Anyway, if we are to be working together, this is no way to start a business relationship. Can I buy you a drink?"
*Slaps his knee with his hat, before putting it back on.*
"Well son, why didn't you say you were a right and nice feller, have a seat and take off that metal lid and have a drink. Hmm, seems to get lively in here quick-like."
Victor spies what appears to be a young magic user walk meekly into the bar, after observing him sit by himself at the end of the bar Victor stands abruptly and carries his flagon of red wine over and sits down next to Izyk and begins to speak."You haf the look of one who dabblesh in the magical artsh, at leasht a little" Victor attempts a smile that pulls the scarred and cracked flesh on his face tight and pats Izyk on the shoulder "Are ya here foh the guard job ash well friend? Well donsha worrah I'll make shhure no harm comesh to ya." Victor slides a few gold pieces to the barkeeper and gruffly instructs the barkeep "Make shhure my friend here hash ebry thing he needsh." Victor then rises and moves back to his solitary table seeming somewhat more relaxed.
*Before the bartender has had a chance to attend to me, one of the larger of the strange men approaches. I am instantly on-guard, hand slipping down to the dagger on my belt. He seems to have good intentions, but his disfigured face and odd speech make the hairs on the back of my neck stand on end.*
"I don't know what gave you that impression, sir. I have no clue what 'guard job' you're talking about, I'm only here to acquire a room for the evening. And while your generosity is appreciated, it is unnecessary. I have my own money...."
*Once he departs, I ensure the barkeep returns the man's gold, paying for my room and board myself.*
"I don't know what gave you that impression, sir. I have no clue what 'guard job' you're talking about, I'm only here to acquire a room for the evening. And while your generosity is appreciated, it is unnecessary. I have my own money...."
As Victor is headed back to his table he hears the young mage mention he doesn't know the job being discussed, he turns around and attempts another smile "Truly you donnah about the johb? Itsh likely for the besht then, coub get quite dangeroush I shuppose. I hear we will be guarding shome musheum or carnival or shome shuch." Realizing that the young man will actually speak with him Victor retakes his seat next to him and picks back up his coins.
"Of coursh, of coursh you have your own money I'm shorry for presuming otherwishe. Magic is an amashing thing, mush more important than what a man like me doesh." His eyes narrow quickly. "You don't conshort with devilsh or the like do ya?"
"I will take a stout ale for this gentleman."
Anyway sir, I have not seen you around the city, are you specifically here for this job? Could you fill me in on any details you may have.
As Victor is headed back to his table he hears the young mage mention he doesn't know the job being discussed, he turns around and attempts another smile "Truly you donnah about the johb? Itsh likely for the besht then, coub get quite dangeroush I shuppose. I hear we will be guarding shome musheum or carnival or shome shuch." Realizing that the young man will actually speak with him Victor retakes his seat next to him and picks back up his coins."Of coursh, of coursh you have your own money I'm shorry for presuming otherwishe. Magic is an amashing thing, mush more important than what a man like me doesh." His eyes narrow quickly. "You don't conshort with devilsh or the like do ya?"
*Just as I had begun to relax, the scarred man returns and sits down next to me. His speech is just as disconcerting as his first words, but I attempt to remain civil, looking up for the barkeep in hopes that he will assist me and I can be on my way*
"Truly, I have no idea what job you speak of. I was referred here by someone I met...."
*It is at this point that I think of Inovay, wondering if these were truly the people she consorted with...they did not seem that versed in the arcane...certainly not this hideous slurring man...*
"Sir, I must ask you not to infer such things of me. I have made no offense to you, and I would appreciate you not offending my sensibilities...I've made no mention of magic, nor devils and certainly would not consort with one."
"Sir, I must ask you not to infer such things of me. I have made no offense to you, and I would appreciate you not offending my sensibilities...I've made no mention of magic, nor devils and certainly would not consort with one."
The grim smile returns to Victor's face after Izyk denies any hellish affiliation. "I'm glad to hear you're not one to conshort wish that group but you can't hide your magic from me. I had me a brother once..." Victor's voice trails off for a moment before he snaps back "I had me a brother once and he involved in that sort of thing and I can see the markersh in your mannerishims, but I can tell you'd mush rather hide it sho I won't shay anything to anyone." Victor takes another long swig from his flagon.
The grim smile returns to Victor's face after Izyk denies any hellish affiliation. "I'm glad to hear you're not one to conshort wish that group but you can't hide your magic from me. I had me a brother once..." Victor's voice trails off for a moment before he snaps back "I had me a brother once and he involved in that sort of thing and I can see the markersh in your mannerishims, but I can tell you'd mush rather hide it sho I won't shay anything to anyone." Victor takes another long swig from his flagon.
*Hearing his explanation, I nod. It is conceivable that I do act a certain way because of my arcane education, but I had not noticed until now. It had never come up. With a half-smile, I respond to the stranger*
"I see, that makes sense. Thank you for your consideration. My name is Izyk. What's your name, sir? And why do you say 'had a brother'? Is he no longer your brother?"
"I see, that makes sense. Thank you for your consideration. My name is Izyk. What's your name, sir? And why do you say 'had a brother'? Is he no longer your brother?"
Victor sits his flagon down on the bar and his eyes glaze over for the hint of a moment "Victor, thatsh my name, and I still have a brother somewhere I think but the lasht I shaw of himb he was being pulled through fiery hole in nothingnesh ash our housh burned..." Victor's voice sounds hollow as he tells the story "...thatsh how I came by theesh scarsh you shee." He pulls of a leather glove and flexes his maimed hand before Izyk before putting the glove back on. "I know hesh shtill out there shomewhere, but like I shaid shometimesh it doeshn't feel like it."
Victor sits his flagon down on the bar and his eyes glaze over for the hint of a moment "Victor, thatsh my name, and I still have a brother somewhere I think but the lasht I shaw of himb he was being pulled through fiery hole in nothingnesh ash our housh burned..." Victor's voice sounds hollow as he tells the story "...thatsh how I came by theesh scarsh you shee." He pulls of a leather glove and flexes his maimed hand before Izyk before putting the glove back on. "I know hesh shtill out there shomewhere, but like I shaid shometimesh it doeshn't feel like it."
"Pulled into a fiery hole? Ah, that explains your inquiry about devils. Sounds as though your brother made a deal without considering the cost...I'm sorry for your loss, but if you believe him to still be out there, then good luck in finding him."
*I very nearly shudder at the sight of Victor's hand, just as gruesome as his face. Whatever did that to him was certainly cruel and vile. After a moment, I look down the bar at the rest of the patrons, careful not to look like a snoop*
"So you are here with your band of guards? And you're going to be guarding some sort of museum? It seems an odd bunch to have for such a duty....particularly the orcish fellow with the toad...."
*Upon seeing Morgra and Gui, I ponder the possibility of his magical aptitude. Most orcs I've encountered have been warriors, but they are not without their arcane specialists...I make a mental note to speak with him later, though probably not alone. Sludge and Snarl will more than likely be enough back-up*
*I am a bit taken back and disappointed in myself for not noticing the large man and kid walk in. I grab up Gui and head over to new company*
How you be doin. My name be Morgra.
* I'll hold out Gui*
And dis be my partna Gui. I assume you guys be here for da job too?
*I am a bit taken back and disappointed in myself for not noticing the large man and kid walk in. I grab up Gui and head over to new company*
How you be doin. My name be Morgra.
* I'll hold out Gui*
And dis be my partna Gui. I assume you guys be here for da job too?
*Yet another man with strange speech...even back home, the dialects were not so diverse. I offer a smile to the orcish man, who seems to only be half orc by his features. His toad is rather large, but it is not dangerous-looking. I reach a tentative hand out to pet it.*
"Hello Morgra, my name is Izyk. No, I only just heard of this 'job' from Victor. I have no idea what it's to be about, but I am not here for that purpose anyway. A giant toad is an interesting pet to have along for travels..."
How you be doin. My name be Morgra.
* I'll hold out Gui*
And dis be my partna Gui. I assume you guys be here for da job too?
Victor looks up as well when the Orc approaches. "Ah another practishoner of the magical arts." Victor flashes his grizly smile at Morgra "Good to meet you and yesh I'm here about the job and I wash jusht toking to my new friend here about a few thingsh, sheemsh he is completely in the dark about the job." Victor's eyes narrow as he looks from Morgra to his toad. "You don't conshort with any devilsh or the like do ya Orc?"
*Yet another man with strange speech...even back home, the dialects were not so diverse. I offer a smile to the orcish man, who seems to only be half orc by his features. His toad is rather large, but it is not dangerous-looking. I reach a tentative hand out to pet it.*
"Hello Morgra, my name is Izyk. No, I only just heard of this 'job' from Victor. I have no idea what it's to be about, but I am not here for that purpose anyway. A giant toad is an interesting pet to have along for travels..."
Gui likes ta be petted, but assure ya he's ma partna and no pet.
*I give Izyk a smile*But dats nieder here or dere. You said ya here for no purpose. Well if you be interested den maybe I can talk ta Dirlish bout da job if you want ta be making some money.
Victor looks up as well when the Orc approaches. "Ah another practishoner of the magical arts." Victor flashes his grizly smile at Morgra "Good to meet you and yesh I'm here about the job and I wash jusht toking to my new friend here about a few thingsh, sheemsh he is completely in the dark about the job." Victor's eyes narrow as he looks from Morgra to his toad. "You don't conshort with any devilsh or the like do ya Orc?"
Ahh and you have a good eye for picking out people's professions. It will serve us well on da job we gonna be doin. And as for consorting wit devils, I don't if you exclude da giant bugs in da swamps back home. Dat how Gui be growin into a big toad.
*Morgra bellows with laughter at his own joke, as he pats Gui on the head*
"I will take a stout ale for this gentleman."
Anyway sir, I have not seen you around the city, are you specifically here for this job? Could you fill me in on any details you may have.
"Not much, just some hairy lil' fella named Morphosed or somesuch wants some adventurious types to watch some place or look at something, and he might pay well. Also I reckon him bein gnome might help get me back in the good graces of the tinkerin bastiches. We've been on, uh, unfriendly terms since an insa'dent with one of their cousins a couple days back. Not good t'all."
*Tries to notice the gist of the other conversation*
Perception
no posts tonite ?
I'm not gonna reply to myself... lol
no posts tonite ?
After several rounds of drinks and conversation, Dirlish Pennywhisker finally arrives at the tavern. At three foot even, he's average size for a gnome. Bushy eyebrows, curly brown hair, and exquisitely styled and waxed mustachios complement his gregarious and wolfish expression as he surveys the bar patrons. He enters with three human initiates at his heels, each bearing a glowing candle.
"Well, here we are, eh, gents? Dirlish Pennywhisker at your convenient service, representing the esteemed and venerable Morpheo Brasshandler. I've come to secure exactly eight able-bodied, educated, and willing individuals to guard the eastern wing of his exhibit while he gives a private tour to a host of guests."
Dirlish slowly walks around the bar while talking, gesturing and articulating. He pauses from time to time to sample a piece of food from a table, borrow a sip of wine, or give the barmaid a playful pinch. All the while the initiates shadow his steps, candles aglow. The gnome continues, making sure to turn and face each bar patron as he speaks.
"The pay will be substantial. Morpheo has very deep pockets and his exhibits are like his children. He wishes to take every measure that they are guarded against intrusion. His usual security measures will be in effect, but your job will be to make sure any guests don't come wandering into other exhibits during the tour. There's been many a whisper and foul portent that's got the old gnome expecting some kind of a fox-in-the-hole scenario. For any of you fine prospects, I'm willing to offer a five hundred gold piece advance for your services, with a three thousand gold piece payment at the end of the tour."
He halts, clasps his gloved hands together behind his back, and turns around to gain the full attention of the bar. Raising an eyebrow, he leans forward as though expecting a whispered response.
"...well, what do you say, gents?"
"Reckon that's quite a haul from o night a werk. What kind of problems the ole gnome expectin if he's payin that much? Had many threats like this before? Also, any o this stuff we're ta be guardin dangerous? Either way I'm in, just like to know the stakes is all"
*Stands, and tries to compose himself of his tipsy situation*
If I fail I'll try and brace myself and sit back down. If I suceed, I'll walk over to the gnome and put my hand out to "shake on it"
Ahh Dirlish. You know Me and Gui be in. We be making sure dat no baddies be gettin into Mr. Morpheo's tings.
As I rise from my seat, I offer a hand to Roderick if he stumbles. I remove my helm, walk towards the gnome, and gently bow my head,
"I stand ready, sir gnome. Damion Ettelbreck at your service."
I raise my head, re don my helm and say "I have served the people of this city well, and I will serve your employer the same. I do ask, however, exactly what are these security measures he has in place? What is the nature of this exhibit?"
Victor stumbles to his feet and examines the gnome. "I accshept the offer ash long ash thish Morpho fellah ish on the up and up..." Victor walks over and collects his blackened greatsword and takes an appraising glance at the rest of the people gathered. "I'd like to know whatsh in this eashtern wing we'll be guarding."
*After Dirlish's speech, I raise both a curious brow and a hand, still in the habit of being selected to speak in class.*
"Mr. Pennywhisker, I believe I've been confused with the rest of these fine gentlemen. I'm no guardian, nor a bouncer. But now that you mention them, I am interested in seeing the exhibits. Might I tag along for the tour?"
"Reckon that's quite a haul from o night a werk. What kind of problems the ole gnome expectin if he's payin that much? Had many threats like this before? Also, any o this stuff we're ta be guardin dangerous? Either way I'm in, just like to know the stakes is all"
*Stands, and tries to compose himself of his tipsy situation*
The effects of the alcohol hit you as you stand, but the armored nobleman lends you a hand, preventing you from overturning a barstool. Dirlish accepts your handshake, and retrieves a hefty pouch of gold. He grins, tosses you the pouch and declares, "Now we're talking business!"
"As to your inquiries, Morpheo has creeping suspicions concerning the rival curator's guild. He suspects a saboteur might be among his guests. In my humble opinion, the old codger is jumping at shadows. The displays are completely harmless: ritual masks from cultures of antiquity, lifelike jade carvings of anthropods, all impressive and priceless but completely innocuous, I assure you."Ahh Dirlish. You know Me and Gui be in. We be making sure dat no baddies be gettin into Mr. Morpheo's tings.
Dirlish chuckles. "Morgra, I'd be pleased to have you and your estimable companion amongst the employ. Your experience with alternative magics might give us the upper hand should intruders try their luck using obscure or forgotten arcana."
As I rise from my seat, I offer a hand to Roderick if he stumbles. I remove my helm, walk towards the gnome, and gently bow my head,
"I stand ready, sir gnome. Damion Ettelbreck at your service."
I raise my head, re don my helm and say "I have served the people of this city well, and I will serve your employer the same. I do ask, however, exactly what are these security measures he has in place? What is the nature of this exhibit?"
"The exhibit is an aquatic display, filled with wildlife from the crushing depths of the Trackless Sea. Angler fish, glowing squid, phosphorescent anemone. All very rare and difficult to acquire. You'll be guarding the eastern wing during the tour, which houses mostly artifacts and burial relics from Empires of Sand. As for the security measures, the displays are shielded by invisible walls of force, in addition to symbols of fear and weakness. Morpheo's personal spellguard will be attending, which includes invisible stalkers and other elementals bound to his service."
Victor stumbles to his feet and examines the gnome. "I accshept the offer ash long ash thish Morpho fellah ish on the up and up..." Victor walks over and collects his blackened greatsword and takes an appraising glance at the rest of the people gathered. "I'd like to know whatsh in this eashtern wing we'll be guarding."
Dirlish narrows his eyes at you while his smile grows. "Yes lad, I assure you, Morpheo is on the up and up.
The gnome looks at your greatsword inquiringly, then continues. "The eastern wing houses artifacts and burial relics from the Empires of Sand. Mostly old bones, jars of preserved organs, and stone tombs. Very interesting stuff."*After Dirlish's speech, I raise both a curious brow and a hand, still in the habit of being selected to speak in class.*
"Mr. Pennywhisker, I believe I've been confused with the rest of these fine gentlemen. I'm no guardian, nor a bouncer. But now that you mention them, I am interested in seeing the exhibits. Might I tag along for the tour?"
The gnome regards you quizzically, raising an eyebrow at your question. "My dear friend, I assure you this job is not a simple guardian's task, nor a task fit for a bouncer. This job will require attentiveness and a keen wit. Educated individuals, such as yourself, are the kind I'm looking for. You're more than welcome to tag along, if you're willing to accept the terms and conditions. And of course, there's the pay. As for observing the exhibits, you are more than welcome to peruse the displays at your leisure, as long as you maintain focus on keeping them undisturbed and safe. Between you and me, Morpheo usually gives his employees complimentary invitations to forthcoming exhibitions."
Dirlish plucks a pouch of gold from somewhere in the folds of his clothing, and holds it before you in an open palm. "A simple task, you'll even have time left over to get a good night's rest. What do you say, friend?"
"I've been told it's always good to have a doctor nearby."
I'll stand before the gnome giving a gracious bow, when handed payment.
"So how large is Mr.Morpheo's eastern wing, will we be in patrols or stand posts?"
With an expression changing from one of curiosity to one of concern.
"And this rival guild has it ever tried any sort of sabotage before at one of these viewings?"
The gnome regards you quizzically, raising an eyebrow at your question. "My dear friend, I assure you this job is not a simple guardian's task, nor a task fit for a bouncer. This job will require attentiveness and a keen wit. Educated individuals, such as yourself, are the kind I'm looking for. You're more than welcome to tag along, if you're willing to accept the terms and conditions. And of course, there's the pay. As for observing the exhibits, you are more than welcome to peruse the displays at your leisure, as long as you maintain focus on keeping them undisturbed and safe. Between you and me, Morpheo usually gives his employees complimentary invitations to forthcoming exhibitions."
Dirlish plucks a pouch of gold from somewhere in the folds of his clothing, and holds it before you in an open palm. "A simple task, you'll even have time left over to get a good night's rest. What do you say, friend?"
*With ever-widening eyes, I listen to Dirlish's offer. Like a greedy child, I snatch the pouch from his hand, grinning like an idiot. The money isn't even on my mind as I stuff it into my backpack. All the wonders to be seen fill my mind.*
"I say I'm in! This exhibition sounds truly wonderful!"
*Takes the pouch and tucks it away*
"Mighty abliged, I'm in. Guardin stuff is a bit easier work than shootin people for a livin. Could be intrestin."
*I''ll take the bag of money and put it in my bag*
I be gettin prepared if I be you guys. Hopefully dere be no bloodshed, but ya never know. Me and dis elf fellow be patchin ya up if it comes down to it. And as an extra bonus Gui might give ya a big toad kiss ta make it feel betta.
*Morgra lets out his bellowing laugh again*
Victor accepts the pouch of coins after being assured of the curator's good intentions and paws happily through the coins as he mumbles to himself "Yesh thish shoub be jusht enuf for thoshe greedy buggersh..." his voice trails off and he waits paitently to be escorted to exhibit, making a mental note to follow up on his personal lead later when he notices Dirlish looking at his sword, he spins it in his hand and says "Even a charred blade is shtill usheful wouldn't you shay?"
"I've been told it's always good to have a doctor nearby."
I'll stand before the gnome giving a gracious bow, when handed payment.
"So how large is Mr.Morpheo's eastern wing, will we be in patrols or stand posts?"
With an expression changing from one of curiosity to one of concern.
"And this rival guild has it ever tried any sort of sabotage before at one of these viewings?"
"Glad to have your assistance, doctor! As for the size of the eastern wing, it's fairly immense. It has a terrace that overlooks the main hall, and twin sweeping stairs that lead from the main hallway up to the terraced overlook. I'll explain the posts when we get there, some patrolling will be involved. Previous attempts at sabotage have all been foiled, but you can never be too careful with a museum full of priceless relics."
Dave how much is my friends bail?
"Even a charred blade is shtill usheful wouldn't you shay?"
Dirlish winces as you whirl the blade, as though he expects it to go crashing into the bar. "I'd agree with you friend, but I'd also ask for a refund from your blacksmith. Looks like he left it in the furnace for too long."
The streets become free of filth, and the buildings here are all resplendent. The night watchmen approach twice during your travels, but they shortly leave everyone to their tasks after some words from Dirlish.
As you continue strolling, the gnome whispers loudly enough for everyone in attendance to hear:
"There's four main wings. Morpheo has hired other professionals to see to the north, west, and southern wings. Each of these wings will have a contingent similar to this one, eight trained and alert experts. They've all been instructed to keep to their respective wings, and the same goes for you lot. Stay in the eastern wing, and if you see any trouble, report to me. I'll be in the northern wing keeping close to Morpheo. Don't go exploring any of the other wings, the guards there are likely to get jumpy if you do. I recommend you inspect your wing upon arrival, get familiar with the layout. Remember to remain focused and alert."
Morpheo's estate eventually comes into view, and it is a magnificent building indeed. A marble stonework building, chased in golden scrollwork, the museum looks to be situated into three tiers, with the topmost tier capped in an intricately embossed brass dome. Statuary and shrubwork stand outside in the courtyard, and an eerie silver glow of moonlight covers the entire domain, giving it a strange and surreal feel. In the dimmed windows of the museum you notice shadowy outlines of the various displays: looming skeletal beasts, esoteric murals, and hanging tapestries of archaic origin. The entire estate is palatial and grand. The old gnome must have sunk his entire life's fortune into maintaining and collecting the various pieces for this museum.
At the gates, two heavily armored guards approach. Upon recognizing Dirlish they part the gates. Ushered in, you take a few moments to survey your surroundings.
"Here we are, gents." Dirlish does a quick head count, then claps his hands together, his eyes gleaming with a mysterious light. "Onwards, to the eastern wing we go."
The inside of the museum is even more magnificent than the outside. The central hall is circular with a domed ceiling. By the moonlight you can discern a collection of lifesize models of gnomish balloons and flying devices suspended by wires 40 feet above you. A lifelike marble bust of an aged and wrinkled gnome stands in the center of the circular hall, and directly behind the bust is a polished oak table that extends from one side of the hall to the other. Signaling you to follow, Dirlish lifts up a hinged section of the table. As you walk through the opening into the eastern wing, Dirlish points to the other wings. "Past this barrier are the other wings. Nothing on the inside is locked, aside from the actual displays. Come signal me immediately if an intrusion is detected."
The eastern wing is filled with over fifty displays. Stone sarcophagi, ancient tablets with inscriptions of an unknown tongue, clay canopic jars, bronze spearheads, blackened glass ritual daggers, burnished golden incense bowls, the list goes on, with each treasure more marvelous than the next. Your gnomish accomplice points to the arching ceiling that towers above you. "See those windows? When the moon moves from that one to that one, the tour should be nearly over. Just remember to keep your eyes peeled, and should you get any interlopers, subdue them using whatever force necessary. The guards from the other wings are given similar instructions, so don't wander off. The safety of the displays is your first priority, take whatever precautions you must to ensure they aren't disturbed or damaged."
*As the group gets closer to the museum Morgra becomes wide-eyed*
Gui look at dis ting. It be bigger den da whole village. Mon we gonna be havin some stories to tell Hugro.
*at the mention of Hugro, Morgra becomes sullen*
Dat is if he even be carin bout anyting we be tellin.
*After the group makes it inside and Dirlish asks if we have any questions Morgra will speak up*
Dirlish, I be wonderin if me throwin me hexes at intruders will be hurtin any of dese art pieces. I dont tink me and Gui could be payin for de damage of any one piece in 4 lifetimes.
Victor lets out an impressed whistle on the approach to the palatial mansion and lets his eyes wander over all the exhibits in sight. He pays close attention when Dirlish explains when its time to quit and inspects the entrances for any major weaknesses.
(Perception to check for vulnerable areas)
After having a quick look around Victor turns back to Dirlish. "You shaid shomething about ush having routesh to walk, eh? Woub you mind giving ush that information now sho shome of ush can get shet up?"
"I propose we split into teams to patrol the wing. Who is in which, I care not, but it is the best way to make sure everything is safe. Teams of 2 or 3 shall suffice. Should any group see anything suspicious, instead of turning headlong into the moment,should alert the other groups."
I reach in my pack. Pulling out a small copper whistle.
"This whistle should alert the entire wing if I blow it. Does anyone else have anything that would work as the same?"
As we approach the building, I'll take a look around to study the building in all of its beauty.
[spoiler=Perception]
"Mr. Morpheo does indeed have a marvelous building."
As we walk into the eastern wing, I'll take note of any ancient texts and tablets to read during my rounds with the use of trusty medicines.
"Has all the text on these exhibits been translated, Mr. Pennywhisker?"