Corvus beats his fist against the table in frustration. Dead ends and dry leads have taken their toll over these past few weeks. What should have been a simple search and kill has turned instead into a wild badger chase. First Petarin escapes Thaydim due to an incompetent city watch, then he eludes capture by stowing away on a ship traveling down the river Blith, and now there are rumors he's leading a band of brigands on raids against the empire's trade ships. The whole thing was becoming very irritating.
“What I need is a way to draw Petarin out in the open…” he mutters to himself. “So far he’s come up relatively empty handed on the last few trade caravans he’s hit; maybe I could plant a rumor that something of extreme value will be on the next caravan that leaves Purple Falls and position myself in with the guards. When Petarin strikes, the caravan guards kill his bandit companions and I kill Petarin.”
But the caravan guards have thus far proven themselves to be little more than children with sticks, he thought to himself. If they could have taken care of Petarin and his men, Petarin’s head would already be affixed to Thaydim’s city gate. What he needed were individuals of proper stature. Men who actually knew which end of a sword to stick a man with.
The high pitched sound of fork and knife on plate disturb his thoughts and turning, he sees Lhain halfway through devouring a pheasant breast and wine stains lining his mouth.
Bartholomew decides that a hot breakfast and good stout would be just the thing to top off a successful caravan. He is going to check with the caravan boss to make sure everything is wrapping up and get his pay then he is going to head down to the Foam Fresh for chow, brew and board.
On Behalf of Lhain:
"If only I could figure out these infernal things" he says throwing the fork and knife down and grabbing what is left of the mangled breast with both hands. As he gets down to the last few bites he realizes that he is being watched. He stops eating, wipes his mouth on his sleeve.
Standing up, breast still in hand, he says "I'm not here because of my good manners, and I'm not here for your amusement, I'm here to fight and kill making sure you can enjoy the Foam Fresh safely" then he storms off to the kitchen for a stout drink in peace.
Taken aback by Lhain’s abrupt outburst, Corvus suddenly found himself grinning. The Foam Fresh enforcer, of course! He had seen the elf knock the heads together of at least a half dozen unruly bar patrons just in the last couple nights alone. He even overheard a conversation between two off-duty caravan guards discussing a gutter fight between Lhain and a burly man with a jagged scar. What was supposed to be a simple unarmed wager fight turned deadly when the man with the scar, bloodied and beaten, pulled a boot knife. Lhain, without even flinching, disarmed the man and proceeded to shove the dagger hilt deep into his chest. Here’s an individual more than capable of handling himself.
“I’ll wait until he finishes his morning repast and then address him. It’s probably best not to get between that man and a breast,” he quipped to himself.
Returning to his notes, a loud clang from the tavern door interrupted his thoughts. Two stout fellows covered head to toe with dirt from the road clambered through the entrance. They looked absolutely disheveled and if it weren’t for their arms or armor he would have thought them to be vagrants.
“Let’s sit over there by the fire,” said the older fellow with the greying handlebar moustache, “I need to warm my old bones.”
The other grunted a chuckle and nodded. They appeared to be old friends.
Sliding down into their chairs with a loud thud and a sigh, the younger gentleman motioned toward the barkeep with two fingers. Disappearing into the kitchen, the barkeep returned with two plates of cooked pheasant and potatoes and two mugs of ale.
They both ate feverishly, neither one looking up from their plate as they gorged themselves.
On Behalf of Lhain:
A few minutes later, Lhain returns from the kitchen area with three steins of ale and makes his way over to the dusty duo. Sitting down and joining the two he says, "I have been so bored, Bartholomew care to share a story about your latest trip, I have ale enough for all of us."
"Morning Daug, I see you are up early as usual." Bartholomew responds as he looks up at Lhain. "I have no tales of adventure to trade you for the ale on this trip. We decided to push through the night so we could get in here ahead of schedule. I am hoping we taught those bandits that our outfit ain't worth the fight. All been quite since that attack." Bartholomew stretches, yawns, and takes a pull of the fresh Ale Lhain set down.
"I was gonna try and talk a hunnerd gold out of the boss here but them bandits never showed for me to earn it. I guess I will have to settle for the normal rate." Bartholomew glances at his companion as the older fellow drifted off dribbling ale down his front. "I take it has been slow here for you as well? How comes the civilizing?"
"Well I am starting to understand what you can and cannot say to other men's girls, but that whole knife and fork thing is ridiculous." Lhain shrugs his shoulders and downs his ale. "Slow doesnt begin to cover it. I am so bored I have started picking fights at the door just to keep me fresh. I'm about ready to accept the next job that comes my way regardless of the dangers. Well i will leave you two to your meals, if you hear anything noteworthy, just keep me in mind."
In RL: how do you get the Bold again??
Corvus watches the old man shuffle towards the rear of the room and disappear in a dimly lit hallway. Guess I better take care of this now before the tavern fills up with all manner of eyes and ears.
Rolling up his maps and loose leaf papers scribbled with notes, Corvus slides his chair back and rises from the table. Not bothering to push his chair in he strides purposely towards Lhain and the young caravan guard Lhain addressed as Bartholomew. Or was it Bartholomeow? It doesn’t matter; a man is not defined by his name. His sword arm is all Corvus cares about.
“Lhain, do you mind if I join you gentlemen?” Corvus asks, interrupting the two mid-laugh. "I may have something you'll both be interested in."
Bartholomew reaches over and slides the bag of silver over so its right on front of him. He eyeballs the newcomer, glances over at Lhain and says "I've never turned anyone away from my table and I am not starting today. Please good sir, have a sit."
Corvus nods towards Bartholomew and slides into the empty wooden chair across from the two acquaintances.
“It’s Bartholomew isn't it?” Corvus asks, “I couldn't help but overhear your conversation while seated at my table. It seems you've lived an adventurous lifestyle, and if you’re half the swordsman your stories make you out to be there’s more where that came from.” Corvus motions towards the money pouch on the table.
“For both of you, I might add.” Corvus looks in the direction of Lhain. “If you’re still interested I’ll continue.”
"Well, I can't promise my sword but I'll listen to your offer" Bartholomew responds. "I am sure my friend Daug here is in as long as the pay is good and there are skulls to knock around. Well maybe just as long as there is pay. He is mostly concerned with the knocking skulls part." Bartholomew leans forward tries to adopt a hard edged stare and says "I will not be a bandit nor will I harm innocents. I am no huge do-gooder but I have lines I won't cross."
"I will have to agree with my associate...I wont be hurting peaceful folk. But if there is adventure to be had, it should be me thats havin it." Lhain says, as he tips his cup to his lips, then frowns as he realizes he has drained it already. Lhain waves off the barkeep. "No refill for me" He says, then turns to his current company, There are times to drink, and times to not. Talking business is not something you do with a swirling head and a gut full of ale.".
Corvus motions with his hands and shakes his head. “Don’t worry my friends, if you agree to be involved your honor will remain intact. It’s not common peasant folk I’m after it’s a group of outlaws.”
Corvus looks at them both.
“As you guys are already aware trade caravans and ships leaving both Bophram and Thydim have seen a sudden rise in successful bandit attacks in the last several weeks; while they’ve yet to steal anything of real value, their destabilizing presence leaves scorch marks across the territory.”
Corvus glances around the room before continuing in a quieter voice.
“The individual I’ve been tracking these past long weeks is named Petarin. He’s the former Captain of Security for a prominent merchant guild in Thydim and, rumor has it, is now leading this particular bandit gang. Which may attest to the current success rate of the group.”
Corvus pauses.
“Petarin is smart, conniving, and a cold-blooded killer. In addition to being a criminal leader, he’s wanted in connection with the murder of the Merchant Lord’s only daughter, Alyrah.” Corvus sighs and looks at Bartholomew. “I have a plan, and with your current profession Bartholomew I believe there’s a strong chance of luring Petarin out and ending his reign of terror for good.”
Corvus glances between them.
“As I mentioned before, there is honor to be found, name to be made, and coin to be earned in this undertaking. A lot of coin...” Corvus pauses. “Still interested?”
Bartholomew thinks about it for a couple moments then nods. "I had been wondering why the bandits had been more active. Your Petarin just may be the reason. Plus avenging a fair maiden is always a noble quest. And if these merchant lords are anything like my father, then there will be a handsome reward indeed." He stretches and yawns, drains his mug and waves off the barkeep. " Let us hear your plan. I have enough energy for a little strategy then I must go clean myself and my equipment and get a least a nights rest."
Cliff notes for Nov 18 session:
Lhain, Corvus, and Bartholomew discuss the plan and decide that the easiest way to draw the bandits out is to work with Joash to set up a fake caravan and spread the rumor that it will be a wealthy target. That night Bartholomew brings Joash to a meeting with Lhain and Corvus in Corvus' room. They discuss Petarin's history and their plan for confronting him. Following successful Diplomacy checks Joash is convinced that it is a sound plan. Lhain is going to drop hints during his normal rounds that he is leaving for a little while to help guard a lucrative caravan. Bartholomew with assist Joash in outfitting the caravan as usual. Joash is able to bring a merchant on board. Bartholomew, Lhain and Joash will be guards while Corvus will pose as a civilian along with the merchant. Bartholomew and Joash confide in and hire Darrin a guard that often works with them and they know to be trustworthy as a fourth guard. The rumors are successfully spread and Corvus is disguised as a merchant. The caravan is prepped to head out on Friday. The first couple of the days pass with no incident. Then early in morning on the 3rd day two strangers approach during breakfast and request food. Corvus recognizes one of the guys as Petarin. He welcomes them in and as they pass he attacks. After a short battle, the bandits were slain and Petarin captured.
Cliff notes for Nov 18 session:
After the battle, they loaded the bandits bodies into the wagons and tracked their prints back to a small camp that contained a couple tents. Lhain was able to continue tracking and as dusk was falling they came across a small house. Bartholomew charged through the door knocking it off his hinges, Lhain and Corvus followed. After a short battle, the heroes defeated the 5 bandits. After the battle Corvus uncovered Petarin's journal. They pack up all loot, head out and travel until well into nightfall and make camp to ensure no one followed. After traveling 8 hours the next day they meet back up with the caravan to find everyone there and waiting. Corvus reviews the journal while the caravan continues its journey.
Then early in morning on the ## day two strangers approach during breakfast and requests food.It was the morning of the third day after two days of travel from Purple Falls.
Fixed. I forgot to go back and put that in. Good catch.
Well after that battle, I know the first thing I'm looking for when we get to town. Potions of Cure. Lhain said to his friends. Hopefully this is the biggest action we see until I can heal these wounds and pick up some potions. The last few days had brought a lot of exciting new experiences, and Lhain had learned alot about how to handle himself in combat.
Well gentlemen, I will leave you to your business in town, I have some sites to see, and some deals to make. Lhain parts with his company for a couple of hours to see some of the town, and to locate the maret, where he would barter with the local merchants, selling the excess loot from the bandits, and also procuring some much needed adventuring supplies.
Corvus reaches down and checks the knots tied around Petarin’s wrists and ankles. Reassured of their secureness, he grabs Petarin’s sword and proceeds toward the room’s door.
“Make sure he doesn’t escape,” Corvus says as he turns his head towards the group. “I’m going to collect what we are owed.”
Opening the door slightly, Corvus peers into the hallway. Not seeing anyone, he slips into the hall and disappears from view as the door closes with a soft thud.
Lhain spends time at the market offloading the extra gear recovered from the bandit raiders, and locating a few choice items for himself. After finishing his business in the market, he chooses to take a different route from the market to the tavern. Along the way he enjoys the sights, sounds and smells of Thaydim.
After Corvus and Lhain leave, Bartholomew braces the door shut and stays to guard Petarin. He doesn't unbrace and open the door unless he is sure it is one of the party.
Lhain arrives back at the tavern via his altered route, and gives a knock on the door to Bartholomew's room. "Hey Bart, it's me Lhain". He then waits for Bartholomew to answer the door.
Bartholomew cleared the door, drew his sword, and told Lhain to open the door and come in slowly. After confirming it was Lhain, Bartholomew sheathed his sword and relocked the door. "How has your dealing been?"
"I did better than average, there's a few extra gold than normal. Found a couple of things I think we could use." Lhain hands Bartholomew a newly acquired bandolier. "There's a Cure Light Wounds potion in there for you, incase we need it, and your share of the profits, 87 gold pieces." He also sets out the bandolier he purchased for Corvis, and the one he bought for himself. Each bandolier contains one Cure Light Wounds potion. "And you have to see this, I saw it in the market, and couldnt pass it up. It's called an ioun torch. The merchant said it will follow me around and make sure I keep my hands free to swing my sword. I just had to get one."
“Looks like I have a new friend,” Corvus mumbles to himself as he ducks through an alley and heads towards the main street.
Looking around, Corvus thinks to himself, I need to find a tavern popular with dwarves.
Hah! Corvus snaps his fingers. The Stoneforge, of course! It has always been the first choice among Thydim’s dwarven population. And lucky for me it's close.
As Corvus enters Thydim’s main street he is immediately engulfed in a sea of people. All manner of races from every walk of life pass around him. Unwashed vagrants line the sidewalk seeking handouts, lords and ladies ride in single caravans along the cobbled road, and commoners talk among themselves as they pass by. Turning right, Corvus follows the throng of people and after a short distance arrives at the Stoneforge.
Standing outside the Stoneforge Corvus hears all manner of noises echoing from within. Loud belches, the sound of things smashing, and a plethora of other noises all terrible sounding wash over him. Well, let’s just get this over with. Corvus says to himself as enters the establishment.
Corvus enters the Stoneforge and immediately walks up to the bar. Ignoring some of the ogling eyes, Corvus orders a pint of ale and positions his body in such a manner so as he can observe those who enter and leave the main entrance.
Downing the last gulps of his ale, Corvus looks about the room. While most patrons of the tavern are rather subdued there is one group of dwarves in particular which are clearly having a good time. Since Corvus’ arrival, one member of the dwarven entourage had been knocked out cold after betting he could take a series of punches to the face, another dwarf passed out on the floor after leaning back in his chair too far while downing a mug of wine, and a third dwarf had his hand skewered by his companion after his friend tried to see how fast he could stab between his fingers with a dagger.
This was clearly the group Corvus was looking for.
Standing from his bar stool, Corvus maneuvers towards the rowdy group. Just as they are about to crack open another cask of wine Corvus approaches and says, “I’m just about to head out, but I wanted you to know, do you see that gentlemen sitting at the table over there?” Corvus looks in the direction of his tail. “After he walked in he came up to me and said he hated drinking with bearded gnomes but this was the only place in town where he could get a good mug of Hammersteen ale.”
Corvus looks at them and studies their reactions.
Corvus continues talking, “Yeah, this guy walks into a dwarven establishment and has the nerve to call you guys bearded gnomes. Unless you guys are fine with a human looking down on you and calling you a bearded gnome, you should probably go over there and teach him a lesson that humankind will never forget.”
Corvus watches as the group of dwarves, angry and cursing, rises from the table and begins to move to confront the man who followed him thus far. ”I think this is my cue,” Corvus says to himself as he begins to move towards the entrance.
Corvus takes one last look toward his follower and, winking at him, he disappears into the street as the sound of shouting and chairs falling over drown out the other patrons in the tavern.
Convinced no one followed him this time, Corvus heads into the non-descript out-of-the-way tavern and walks into the back hallway where the guest rooms are located. Approaching the group’s room, Corvus knocks on the door and waits for a reply.
Bartholomew unblocks and opens the door when Corvus knocks. After Corvus enters, Bartholomew locks the door, turns to Corvus and says "Good news I hope."
“Mixed,” Corvus replies. Taking out a pouch of gold coins, Corvus tosses it onto the nearby table. “Our group’s earnings for Petarin; divide it five ways and it comes out to twenty gold a piece.”
Corvus looks around and sees Lhain sitting on a bed next to extra gear while playing with a shimmering object.
“I take it the sale of our surplus equipment went well? Are Joash and Darrin all paid up from those earnings?” Corvus asks to no one specifically.
I did well, each person's share is 87g. I have coin bags for you, Joash and Darrin over on the table. That bandolier is yours, and a CLW potion in one of the pouches. Lhain responds to Corvus' questions.
Corvus nods. “So, that makes 107 gold pieces per person. Not bad for a couple weeks work. Certainly beats a bag of silver.” Corvus grins at Bartholomew. “Well, let me get you guys what you’re owed.”
Corvus approaches the money pouch he tossed on the table. Picking it up, he empties its contents and divides up five separate piles of twenty gold coins. He then hands each person their stack.
“There, that should settle what we’re each owed. Joash and Darrin, I don’t have any other work lined up at this time but if the need arises know you’ll hear from me. You guys did a remarkable job and I absolutely look forward to working with you guys in the future.”
"Tonight's the night. Are you guys ready?" Corvus asks.
Bartholomew looks down at Petarin and back up at the other two. "Ready as I can be. Is there any reason to think that we may be double crossed? Or is this just a precaution?"
"Lord Belforst would be smart to not double cross us, one thing I may not have noted in detail before is on my way back here the other day I was followed by a not so discreet individual. I only noticed him after I had left Lord Belforst's residence, but it's possible I could have picked him after I retrieved our bounty at the city guard's administrative office." Crovus says aloud as he replays the day's events in his head.
Corvus chuckles to himself and then shrugs.
"The worst case at this point is Lord Belforst only expects me to be there. I took care of the individual who decided to follow me and no one tracked me here. However, as a precaution, I suggest you guys keep to the shadows while I meet with him. If the deal starts to go south I'll cough twice, loudly, and you guys move in with swords drawn. We should leave a couple hours early to get situated."
"Sounds good. I am ready to head out when you are." Bartholomew responds.