"Interesting; this seems like something that a merchant prince would be investigating. I mean, someone smuggling goods in must cut into their profits somehow. Do you have any idea what they are smuggling into the city?"
Gwen stares at the garments for a moment, "Ooh, how much?" she says, wishing to buy the item, but taking for granted the fact that she may not ever wear them.
Then for Klevin's job proposal, "I would love to help!"
Klevin looks quite happy that Gwen seems to like the clothing. "Why, I am so glad that you asked! This I would normally sell to you for around twenty-seven gold, but tell you what, since you are all helping me out on this mission I am willing to sell it to you for the low low price of sixteen gold!" He smiles before continuing. "Heeltemal 'n ooreenkoms, or: Quite a deal! Anyway, this is indeed affecting the merchant princes, but it does not seem to be enough to draw their attention. I believe the smugglers are acting in a way to ensure that they stay under the radar. Nevertheless, several of those who are quite invested in the joint prosperity of Port Nyanzaru's businesses, have been looking for a way to put a stop to this. As for what they're smuggling, I have no idea. At any rate, if you complete this job, put a stop to the smuggling ring, and recover the artifact I would be willing to reward you for your job. Does that make sense?"
"Okay. We can definitely look into this. I wonder if this is connected to what Po wants us to do. Speaking of which; could you direct us to the old city? We are meant to speak with a gentleman there by the name of Po."
Gwen hands the gold over to Klevin and folds the garment and carefully places it in her bag, "Well, the sooner we get onto this the better. I'm ready when you guys are!"
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
"The hero sought to save the world.
"If I keep trying, I'll be able to win," the hero thought.
But the harder the hero fought, the further the world seemed to tumble away.
Drowning in doubt, the hero could not even save themselves.
Hero, if you still believe in a brighter future, hold in your heart a thorn that can pierce all doubt."
As Craben mentions Po, Klevin stiffens up in distaste (something he clearly does not do too often). "Ah... yes. The most unsavory fellow in this group of factions. Po can be found in the Old City as you noted, which is to the north-west of here; although I would not stay in there any longer than you have to... only Obatu knows what those Beggar Princes are up to now." After that statement is over he seems to regain his composure and smiles broadly. "Well, the passage to the smuggler hideout is in Tiryki Anchorage to the Southwest of here. Once you enter that district simply turn left at Kabuzan way and then turn right on Nangnang street. There should be an ally somewhere there, that should be the location of the entrance to the hideout." After the transaction Klevin looks rather pleased. "I'm very glad I could be of service madam. Feel free to return to The Weave of Life for all of your clothing needs." He then bids all of you adieu.
Klevin bows deeply: "Mag die reën vriendelik op jou val. Or: May the rain fall kindly upon your head." As he bows you can't help but notice a rather large signet ring on his finger that bears what seems to be a crown of some kind.
As you all step outside of the building the sight of the Grand Souk once more greets your eyes as humanoids of all shapes and sizes brush past you eager to peruse the variety of artistry and so much more that is in this wonderous marketplace.
After the group leaves the grand marketplace they find themselves on the bustling streets of Port Nyanzaru. Chultans, Tabaxi minstrels, snow-white dwarves, and towering reptilian beasts walk along the wide pathways, each one with some destination of some kind. It is then when Craben feels a drop upon his head. As he looks up, he sees that the once-bright sky has turned into a dark one consumed by the gray clouds of rain. The single drop turns into another, and another, until you are all dashing to cover in search of solace from the downpour that has erupted from the heavens.
Nevertheless, you slowly (doing your best to maintain your current state of dryness [spoiler: it's a failure]) make your way to the north-west. As you walk through the streets of Nyanzaru you pass by several more villas far above you, towering over you with their splendor and luxury (both marked 5 on the map). Eventually, you make your way over clean flagstones that gradually begin to wear away to cobblestone streets the closer you get to the Old City (and subsequently farther from the Merchant Ward), and you find yourselves in front of another great archway, this one depicts several great monstrous beasts: A strange rabbit-like figure with a horn, a beastial frog with tentacles and eyestalks, a serpentine creature, a poisonous frog-like being that stands upon two legs, a creature that looks like a feral teddy bear, a large creature which looks like a mix between an ostrich and a heron, a jaguar but with snakes coming out of its back, a snail with several eyestalks that have ends like hammers, and a feral monkey of some kind. Either way, you pass under the archway and enter the Old City.
Unlike any of the other prominent districts within the city walls, Old City is a haphazard sprawl of bamboo huts dotted with a few makeshift tents. The entire area is built around the crumbling remains of three ziggurats, each of their terraces reworked into platforms housing numerous tents and bamboo huts.
The two largest ziggurats of the Old City stand imposingly in front of you. Shops and tenements of bamboo are jammed onto the terraces of the ziggurats in wild profusion. The upper levels are cleaner and less crowded than those near street level. A narrow wooden bridge connects the upper levels above the press and noise of the street. As you continue by the humongous ziggurats you make it to what seems to be some kind of giant pit smack dab in the middle of the road. A group of Chultans surrounds the humongous pit and cheer based on some kind of event going on inside of the pit. You maneuver your way past the crowd, but you manage to get a glimpse of what is inside. You see a skinny Chultan moving from cover to cover in some kind of long obstacle course. Except, the obstacles are not what you would commonly expect, but instead ravenous dinosaurs, ranging from tiny to some as large as a dragonborn peek their heads, looking around the long course, seeking their prey.
You do not have too much time to consider this; however, as you make your way past this deadly course of doom to the south to where Po was rumored to dwell. Passing by some of the Chultans you can clearly see that what they wear is in direct contrast to the ward that you just left from. Although not as bad as what you glimpsed in Malar's Throat, the Old City is clearly a slums district. Banner signs on bamboo posts mark several local crafts and laborers. It is then when you reach the southernmost area and the hut of Pock-Marked Po.
OOC: Holding off for now, just tell me to continue and I shall. I know that this post is long and it is quite a bit to process so I'll give you guys some time.
The hut is disheveled from the outside, but the inside is surprisingly decorated with glittering trinkets and tapestries, and also smells of fine oils.
Inside of this luxurious hut, you see a man sprawled out lavishly upon palm fronds while many Chultan servants, dressed in a description inappropriate for this forum, treat him by feeding him fruits, fanning him, and giving him massages. As he turns to the new entrances (you all) you see why he is called Pock-Marked Po. He at first seems to be a standard Chultan in his mid-30s. Dusky skin and black hair adorn what once was probably a striking figure. However, as you see him in his entirety, the nickname becomes obvious. His face is heavily scarred, and he is nearly blind in one eye. His hands and legs are gnarled and twisted in such a way that you expect movement to be practically impossible. Nevertheless, the man is helped to his feet by a couple of robed female servants. As Po slowly approaches you all, the servants walk with him in a protective escort before he waves them off and slowly approaches on his own, walking with an obviously painful stooped gait. Even so, he eventually arrives in front of you and shows you the one thing not ravaged by whatever did this to him: his tongue. Words fall out of his mouth like silky smooth honey as he greets you all. "Why hello there. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintances. I am Po, contact for the family here in Nyanzaru. As for all of you... based on your garb it is quite obvious that you are not of Chult, no? Not only that, but you have the equipping and stature of those who have seen combat.
Adventurers, then... and recent ones at that. Well, your presence here is most welcome. I hope that you are willing to aid with the... irksome situation that plagues this port, regardless of whether your calling is that of bravery, duty, or simply sheer madness. So... what do you say. Can a man like me gain some friends like you?"
The man makes a strange half-smile as he continues to speak. Half because one half of his mouth has been permanently upturned in an unsettling way. "Why, you met with old wren didn't you. Splendid, splendid. How's he doing? Drunk as a sailor, I assume... Anyway, you must know dear adventurers, that information is a currency, and currency is something that must be earned. I would be willing to grant you this morsel of information for... say, a single, tiny, little, simple, favor from people such as yourselves. So, what do you say dear old Craben, would you like some information?"
The Chultan cranes his neck towards the red-headed dwarf, and stares with his milky eye straight into hers. "Why, I'm so glad that you asked dearie. You see, there is a competition occurring tomorrow at noon-time in the Colosseum, splendid place mind you. Through my connections, I have... procured a few spots for event participants. Do not worry, the original owners of those spots will have no need of them anymore. Now, I could hire out a group of mercenaries to compete in these spots... but now that you are here, why you all would be far better suited for this task. Compete, win the events, and when you are finished there shall be a single gem called the 'Oracle's Eye.' You may keep all of the other trinkets and rewards that come from winning, but I need that gem. Is that satisfactory?" Several of the Chultan women then begin fanning him with palm fronds.
"When will this be?" Yosben asks, curious about the event, then blushes as he realizes that his question had already been answered. Yosben thinks that he and Craben might be popular participants.
"What specifically are these events? Are we going to be battling those dinosaurs are something? I want to know the dangers we will be facing in these events."
The Chultan gives a somewhat robotic (from his affliction) nod as he speaks once more: "Ah. A rather astute question Craben, there shall be two events: an allosaurus race, and a competition of combat. Have no fear about the deadliness of these events; however, for anything that might result in death has been outlawed due to... recent results. However, I warn you that this also means that all forms of elemental and spell damage have been removed, and if you plan on attacking with a ranged weapon, the target cannot be anywhere close to death. Does that satisfy you all my dearies?"
"Interesting; this seems like something that a merchant prince would be investigating. I mean, someone smuggling goods in must cut into their profits somehow. Do you have any idea what they are smuggling into the city?"
"Whatever it is, I want to check it out. Seems interesting!" Yosben says, excitement covering his embarrassment.
Gwen stares at the garments for a moment, "Ooh, how much?" she says, wishing to buy the item, but taking for granted the fact that she may not ever wear them.
Then for Klevin's job proposal, "I would love to help!"
"The hero sought to save the world.
"If I keep trying, I'll be able to win," the hero thought.
But the harder the hero fought, the further the world seemed to tumble away.
Drowning in doubt, the hero could not even save themselves.
Hero, if you still believe in a brighter future, hold in your heart a thorn that can pierce all doubt."
~ Guild Wars 2
Klevin looks quite happy that Gwen seems to like the clothing. "Why, I am so glad that you asked! This I would normally sell to you for around twenty-seven gold, but tell you what, since you are all helping me out on this mission I am willing to sell it to you for the low low price of sixteen gold!" He smiles before continuing. "Heeltemal 'n ooreenkoms, or: Quite a deal! Anyway, this is indeed affecting the merchant princes, but it does not seem to be enough to draw their attention. I believe the smugglers are acting in a way to ensure that they stay under the radar. Nevertheless, several of those who are quite invested in the joint prosperity of Port Nyanzaru's businesses, have been looking for a way to put a stop to this. As for what they're smuggling, I have no idea. At any rate, if you complete this job, put a stop to the smuggling ring, and recover the artifact I would be willing to reward you for your job. Does that make sense?"
DM of Tomb of Annihilation (and more) Group 2 and Group 3
"Yes" Yosben says, doing his best to contain his curiosity.
"Okay. We can definitely look into this. I wonder if this is connected to what Po wants us to do. Speaking of which; could you direct us to the old city? We are meant to speak with a gentleman there by the name of Po."
Gwen hands the gold over to Klevin and folds the garment and carefully places it in her bag, "Well, the sooner we get onto this the better. I'm ready when you guys are!"
"The hero sought to save the world.
"If I keep trying, I'll be able to win," the hero thought.
But the harder the hero fought, the further the world seemed to tumble away.
Drowning in doubt, the hero could not even save themselves.
Hero, if you still believe in a brighter future, hold in your heart a thorn that can pierce all doubt."
~ Guild Wars 2
(Gwen's gold totals have now been changed)
As Craben mentions Po, Klevin stiffens up in distaste (something he clearly does not do too often). "Ah... yes. The most unsavory fellow in this group of factions. Po can be found in the Old City as you noted, which is to the north-west of here; although I would not stay in there any longer than you have to... only Obatu knows what those Beggar Princes are up to now." After that statement is over he seems to regain his composure and smiles broadly. "Well, the passage to the smuggler hideout is in Tiryki Anchorage to the Southwest of here. Once you enter that district simply turn left at Kabuzan way and then turn right on Nangnang street. There should be an ally somewhere there, that should be the location of the entrance to the hideout." After the transaction Klevin looks rather pleased. "I'm very glad I could be of service madam. Feel free to return to The Weave of Life for all of your clothing needs." He then bids all of you adieu.
DM of Tomb of Annihilation (and more) Group 2 and Group 3
"Thanks for the info."
Craben will then turn to Gwen and Yosben.
"Do you want to go to Po first or find some information about guides next?"
Klevin bows deeply: "Mag die reën vriendelik op jou val. Or: May the rain fall kindly upon your head." As he bows you can't help but notice a rather large signet ring on his finger that bears what seems to be a crown of some kind.
As you all step outside of the building the sight of the Grand Souk once more greets your eyes as humanoids of all shapes and sizes brush past you eager to peruse the variety of artistry and so much more that is in this wonderous marketplace.
DM of Tomb of Annihilation (and more) Group 2 and Group 3
Day 31, 902 hours
After the group leaves the grand marketplace they find themselves on the bustling streets of Port Nyanzaru. Chultans, Tabaxi minstrels, snow-white dwarves, and towering reptilian beasts walk along the wide pathways, each one with some destination of some kind. It is then when Craben feels a drop upon his head. As he looks up, he sees that the once-bright sky has turned into a dark one consumed by the gray clouds of rain. The single drop turns into another, and another, until you are all dashing to cover in search of solace from the downpour that has erupted from the heavens.
Nevertheless, you slowly (doing your best to maintain your current state of dryness [spoiler: it's a failure]) make your way to the north-west. As you walk through the streets of Nyanzaru you pass by several more villas far above you, towering over you with their splendor and luxury (both marked 5 on the map). Eventually, you make your way over clean flagstones that gradually begin to wear away to cobblestone streets the closer you get to the Old City (and subsequently farther from the Merchant Ward), and you find yourselves in front of another great archway, this one depicts several great monstrous beasts: A strange rabbit-like figure with a horn, a beastial frog with tentacles and eyestalks, a serpentine creature, a poisonous frog-like being that stands upon two legs, a creature that looks like a feral teddy bear, a large creature which looks like a mix between an ostrich and a heron, a jaguar but with snakes coming out of its back, a snail with several eyestalks that have ends like hammers, and a feral monkey of some kind. Either way, you pass under the archway and enter the Old City.
Unlike any of the other prominent districts within the city walls, Old City is a haphazard sprawl of bamboo huts dotted with a few makeshift tents. The entire area is built around the crumbling remains of three ziggurats, each of their terraces reworked into platforms housing numerous tents and bamboo huts.
The two largest ziggurats of the Old City stand imposingly in front of you. Shops and tenements of bamboo are jammed onto the terraces of the ziggurats in wild profusion. The upper levels are cleaner and less crowded than those near street level. A narrow wooden bridge connects the upper levels above the press and noise of the street. As you continue by the humongous ziggurats you make it to what seems to be some kind of giant pit smack dab in the middle of the road. A group of Chultans surrounds the humongous pit and cheer based on some kind of event going on inside of the pit. You maneuver your way past the crowd, but you manage to get a glimpse of what is inside. You see a skinny Chultan moving from cover to cover in some kind of long obstacle course. Except, the obstacles are not what you would commonly expect, but instead ravenous dinosaurs, ranging from tiny to some as large as a dragonborn peek their heads, looking around the long course, seeking their prey.
You do not have too much time to consider this; however, as you make your way past this deadly course of doom to the south to where Po was rumored to dwell. Passing by some of the Chultans you can clearly see that what they wear is in direct contrast to the ward that you just left from. Although not as bad as what you glimpsed in Malar's Throat, the Old City is clearly a slums district. Banner signs on bamboo posts mark several local crafts and laborers. It is then when you reach the southernmost area and the hut of Pock-Marked Po.
OOC: Holding off for now, just tell me to continue and I shall. I know that this post is long and it is quite a bit to process so I'll give you guys some time.
DM of Tomb of Annihilation (and more) Group 2 and Group 3
The hut is disheveled from the outside, but the inside is surprisingly decorated with glittering trinkets and tapestries, and also smells of fine oils.
Inside of this luxurious hut, you see a man sprawled out lavishly upon palm fronds while many Chultan servants, dressed in a description inappropriate for this forum, treat him by feeding him fruits, fanning him, and giving him massages. As he turns to the new entrances (you all) you see why he is called Pock-Marked Po. He at first seems to be a standard Chultan in his mid-30s. Dusky skin and black hair adorn what once was probably a striking figure. However, as you see him in his entirety, the nickname becomes obvious. His face is heavily scarred, and he is nearly blind in one eye. His hands and legs are gnarled and twisted in such a way that you expect movement to be practically impossible. Nevertheless, the man is helped to his feet by a couple of robed female servants. As Po slowly approaches you all, the servants walk with him in a protective escort before he waves them off and slowly approaches on his own, walking with an obviously painful stooped gait. Even so, he eventually arrives in front of you and shows you the one thing not ravaged by whatever did this to him: his tongue. Words fall out of his mouth like silky smooth honey as he greets you all. "Why hello there. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintances. I am Po, contact for the family here in Nyanzaru. As for all of you... based on your garb it is quite obvious that you are not of Chult, no? Not only that, but you have the equipping and stature of those who have seen combat.
Adventurers, then... and recent ones at that. Well, your presence here is most welcome. I hope that you are willing to aid with the... irksome situation that plagues this port, regardless of whether your calling is that of bravery, duty, or simply sheer madness. So... what do you say. Can a man like me gain some friends like you?"
DM of Tomb of Annihilation (and more) Group 2 and Group 3
"Yes, our contact at the House of Repose informed us that we could get a little information from you about whats going on here."
Craben is unsure if he can trust this man for more than information. He also thinks to himself.
Who is this family he talks about here? Does he mean the Harpers or someone else?
The man makes a strange half-smile as he continues to speak. Half because one half of his mouth has been permanently upturned in an unsettling way. "Why, you met with old wren didn't you. Splendid, splendid. How's he doing? Drunk as a sailor, I assume... Anyway, you must know dear adventurers, that information is a currency, and currency is something that must be earned. I would be willing to grant you this morsel of information for... say, a single, tiny, little, simple, favor from people such as yourselves. So, what do you say dear old Craben, would you like some information?"
DM of Tomb of Annihilation (and more) Group 2 and Group 3
"Favor? What do you want?" Gwen says, trying her best not to stare.
"The hero sought to save the world.
"If I keep trying, I'll be able to win," the hero thought.
But the harder the hero fought, the further the world seemed to tumble away.
Drowning in doubt, the hero could not even save themselves.
Hero, if you still believe in a brighter future, hold in your heart a thorn that can pierce all doubt."
~ Guild Wars 2
The Chultan cranes his neck towards the red-headed dwarf, and stares with his milky eye straight into hers. "Why, I'm so glad that you asked dearie. You see, there is a competition occurring tomorrow at noon-time in the Colosseum, splendid place mind you. Through my connections, I have... procured a few spots for event participants. Do not worry, the original owners of those spots will have no need of them anymore. Now, I could hire out a group of mercenaries to compete in these spots... but now that you are here, why you all would be far better suited for this task. Compete, win the events, and when you are finished there shall be a single gem called the 'Oracle's Eye.' You may keep all of the other trinkets and rewards that come from winning, but I need that gem. Is that satisfactory?" Several of the Chultan women then begin fanning him with palm fronds.
DM of Tomb of Annihilation (and more) Group 2 and Group 3
"When will this be?" Yosben asks, curious about the event, then blushes as he realizes that his question had already been answered. Yosben thinks that he and Craben might be popular participants.
"What specifically are these events? Are we going to be battling those dinosaurs are something? I want to know the dangers we will be facing in these events."
The Chultan gives a somewhat robotic (from his affliction) nod as he speaks once more: "Ah. A rather astute question Craben, there shall be two events: an allosaurus race, and a competition of combat. Have no fear about the deadliness of these events; however, for anything that might result in death has been outlawed due to... recent results. However, I warn you that this also means that all forms of elemental and spell damage have been removed, and if you plan on attacking with a ranged weapon, the target cannot be anywhere close to death. Does that satisfy you all my dearies?"
DM of Tomb of Annihilation (and more) Group 2 and Group 3
Yosben frowns at the spell restrictions. "So... if I were to do the racing event, I can use my spells as long as it does not hurt them, correct?"