”What’s arm wrestle?” Lockbox asks as he sits down, listening to his friend attempt some song he’s never heard. He tilts his head waiting for the song to end but contemplated making yet another enemy. Locky didn’t know much about life, but he knew everyone seemed to be out to get him. Just as well, he’s made due thus far. Nothing has really stopped his journey, only slowed him down.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
"...Debts must always be paid, sometimes in more than blood and gold. But this is Ordo Ursa," Ren places his hand on Erakas's chest, right where the Dragonborn's heart is. "Right here. And it always has been and always will be. Don't ever forget that. Because I won't."
Serandis Mendaen (Aereni Elven Rogue/maybe one day Wizard)- Project Point Playtest
"Pretty and smart. A dangerous combination. But it seems you could use more practice with your... instrument."says Yagra as she winks at Vassa. She turns to Lockbox and explains arm wrestling to him and asks if he'd be interested in giving it a try.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
[OOC] On behalf of Codester/Aenio
'Since being revived after the battle, Aenio has been walking around the large open well in the centre of the tavern, a fascinated look upon his face, an open book and quill in hand, apparently taking notes. Hearing Lockbox's question about arm-wrestling, he calls disinterestedly over his shoulder,'
"It's a primitive and aggressive use of muscle mass for no rational purpose other than to assert, or attempt to assert, dominance against like-minded primitive and aggressive people. Err, no offence intended and present company excluded... of course."
'Having made what notes he deemed relevant, the highelf begins studying the other patrons in the tavern, hoping-against-hope that there may be other wizards or intellectuals in the establishment. While he's enjoying the fellowship of his new companions readily enough, he really would love to discuss his latest insights on spell theory with anotherarcanist, particularly as it relates to fire and the vulnerabilities of certain creatures to magically harnessed elemental flame.'
[OOC] perception check 9. He will invite Asariel into this discussion as well and if he can't find a third arcane spell-caster in the tavern, he'll try to include Tiermat in the discussion, bringing up some of the finer theoretical distinctions regarding his arcane magic and the Firbolg's divine magic.
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land DM Beyond the Bitter Shore DM Echos of a Burning Crown
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
'Vassa continues playing, his lavender coloured eyes twinkling with a good natured acceptance of Yagra's witty jibe. Those last few notes had been rather off-key, he had to admit. All well and good - he was probably just a little out of breath after the battle. Letting the last dramatic notes of the woodwind instrument fade away, Vassa expertly slips the flute back into his belt and, as he spins away from Locky and Yagra's table, pulls his trusty rosewood lute from across his back and begins to play a more merry tune (Elvish Ale and Dwarven Wine) as he makes his way through the crowd towards Durnan.
Anticipating the likely upcoming armwrestling match between Lockbox and Yagra, Vassa feels moved to give his new friend a friendly confidence boost, calling out as he moves nimbly between the Portal's tables and patrons,'
"You've got this, Locky. I've got silver on Yagra, but I've got GOLD on you, my friend!"
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land DM Beyond the Bitter Shore DM Echos of a Burning Crown
Aenio does see a few people who, based on their style of dress, he assumes are wizards but they all appear to be engaged in conversations with their companions. The ones he sees are:
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
'Aenio chooses the very old male tiefling, purely on the likelihood that due to his age and experience, he may be more knowledgeable. His research journal clutched visibly in hand, the highelf says,'
"Evening to you, good sir. Might I take a seat? It has been a most eventful night and I find myself desiring some learned company with which to enjoy a more intellectual form of interaction. I hope that you will forgive me for being so bold, but I couldn't help but notice that you look like a individual familiar with, and perhaps greatly experienced in, spellcraft. I myself am newly set upon my path to arcane mastery, but would greatly appreciate the opportunity to sit and enjoy fruitful discourse with one as accomplished as yourself."
[OOC] Aenio will discuss anything arcane related with the old tiefling, but is particularly interested in anything the spell-caster may know about researching new spells and other magics. investigation7 if required.
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land DM Beyond the Bitter Shore DM Echos of a Burning Crown
The tiefling looks Aenio up and down before smiling, "Fruitful discourse? Here?" The old man starts to laugh and then motions to his companions, "My friends and I are discussing the grain being brought into the city this year. It's enough for the winter but if the city continues to grow as it has been we'll out pace production in another 2 years. We were just discussing how we might be able to increase crop yields with the existing amount of farmland. Unfortunately, we've been quite un-fruitful thus far. Perhaps you can help. Sit here to my right, I'm hard of hearing in my left ear." and he motions to an empty seat. "My name is Aradani and these are my associates and sometimes friends," Then he begins to point to the others in turn, "Daisy, Keli, Voadia, and Munda. Now," eyeing Aenio again, "Who might you be and, more importantly, do you know anything of farming?"
What you can observe about the group:
Aradani: Male Tiefling - Aradani is very short for a tiefling, has rugged, pockmarked, purple skin; long curly white hair; and black eyes. He wears well tailored but not flashy clothing.
Daisy: Female Halfling - Daisy has red hair and brown eyes. She wears fine clothing and a mink fur cape.
Keli: Male Dwarf - Keli has auburn hair and bright brown eyes, and a thick beard. He wears modest garments and several pouches hang from his belt.
Voadia: Female Elf - Voadia has a long face, with curly auburn hair and green eyes. She wears travel-stained clothing and several pouches hang from her belt.
Munda: Male Tiefling - Munda is tall and willowy, with thick brown hair and gold eyes. He wears expensive clothing and several pouches hang from his belt.
Kestrell overhears Aenio talking to the farming group and goes over to introduce himself.
"Hi, I'm Aenio's friend Kestrell. I know a little about farming. You mentioned that you wanted to increase yields with the existing amount of farmland. Why don't you use more farmland? Or import more grains and vegetables using your fabulous port?"
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
'As he moves up next to the bar near Durnan, Vassa finishes his lute number, capping what he hopes is an improved performance with a magical trick prestidigitation that causes his last few chords to echo on momentarily after he has finished playing.' performance check 17
"How're those wounds holding up, Durnan? That troll really planted one on you, not to mention that giant mosquito bite! Though you certainly gave as good as you got. Pretty impressive moves for an innkeep, to say nothing of that very fine sword of yours. Never a dull night in here though, I guess. I'm just glad that we didn't drop in on devils and demons night."
'Vassa will place a silver shard on the counter and give the burly innkeep his most comradely smile, then, with a *snap* of his fingers, summon the fresh scents of an apple orchard around the bar area, saying,'
"The smell of burnt troll is now officially on my list of 3 smells that I can live without ever experiencing again. A glass of something pungent and sweet, if you would be so kind, to help wash away that cloying odor."
'As the half-drow sips his drink, he will begin to ask Durnan about the adventures that the man must have had, as well as trying to find out more about the Yawning Portal, or more particularly the tunnels, chambers and other areas beneath the City of Splendours.' investigation check 13
Specifically, Vassa is trying to find out, without asking too bluntly, if there are tunnels beneath the city that connect with the fabled underdark and if there have been sightings of drow or word of any communities of theirs that might exist nearby.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land DM Beyond the Bitter Shore DM Echos of a Burning Crown
"Why don't we just use more land?", says Keli eyeing Kestrell, "Because there isn't more land. At least not readily available. We'll have to hire people to cut more of the forests down, then try and find an experienced farmer to work the land. And support said farmer and his family for at least the first year until they get a harvest, ifing they even get a harvest the first year. And that's assuming that cutting more forest doesn't anger a clutch of druids or unearth some lost magical ruin that has to be studied or some other such nonsense. But I agree with you on importing from overseas. Mayhaps you can help me convince the others."
"We've been over this Keli" says Voadia in a surprisingly raspy voice. "The shipping routes are fine for luxuries but it's too unreliable to bet the lives of our citizenry on. Between the storms, various sea creatures and oh, let's not forget the blasted pirates! No! I won't hear of risking.." The rest is downed out as everyone at the table starts bickering again.
A few of the drunks near Vassa catch the echoing note and clap. Durnan smirks at Vassa while handing him a drink. "If you only have 3 smells you can live without, you haven't lived yet. But me wounds are just fine. It'll take far more than that lot to bring me down. As for the portal, I hope you're not considering heading down. The Undermountain is more dangerous than you can imagine I think. The first level you get to is just the city sewer and even it has monsters as tough as those you fought tonight in it. And and further down you go the more dangerous it gets. I made my living in those tunnels and dungeons and got rich doing. But I've also seen a lot of folks die horrible deaths. No, it's best you stay out of there for now."
"Well that's kind of how it works. Pick a section of forest close to town, divide it into family sized farm plots, and come up with a program where you offer ownership of the land to a person if they can clear it and farm it for two years. Clearing and living costs are on them."
"Regarding existing farmland, when I was growing up way up north, I worked for a farmer. He couldn't find a druid to make his land more fertile so he would take manure and spread it over the fields in the spring. The manure did something to the crops and they produced about 25% more than they would have otherwise."
Kestrell pauses.
"Wait, you are concerned for the townsfolk, are you part of the surprise council or whatever its called that governs Waterdeep?"
'Aenio confidently states, looking around at his bickering tablemates. Noting their frowns and puzzled glances, he continues,'
"You farm UP! Only so much can be done with each square foot of land, even taking into account improvements to irrigation, aeration and fetilisation techniques. Why, even magic cannot force the soil itself to hold more yield potential and should magic be used to attempt this, you risk irrevocably harming the land and destroying your agricultural economy. So you farm UP! Vertical gardens, roof-top gardens, hanging gardens... considering the sheer size of this city, if you were to utilise existing wall space, roof space and perhaps construct areas of latticed frameworks in suitable locations throughout Waterdeep, I believe that you could probably transition all non-grain and orchard crops to this new farming paradigm, thereby freeing up sufficient land to double, perhaps even triple your existing grain yields. And with the magic that the lords of this city have at their disposal, creating said new infrastructure should not prove overly difficult ortime-consuming."
'The elvish wizard looks pleased with his proposed solution and begins making notes about potential new spells that could be used to help bring about this new agricultural wonderland.'
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land DM Beyond the Bitter Shore DM Echos of a Burning Crown
"Pretty and smart. A dangerous combination. But it seems you could use more practice with your... instrument."says Yagra as she winks at Vassa. She turns to Lockbox and explains arm wrestling to him and asks if he'd be interested in giving it a try.
"I would break you," Lockbox says very pointedly. He cocks his head and looks at her muscular arms. They would have no match for his plated arm. And he liked this one, she seemed eager to show her skill in many forms. He didn't realize that he was possibly challenging her even more, anyone who talked this one could tell she wouldn't turn away from a fight or a challenge.
"...Debts must always be paid, sometimes in more than blood and gold. But this is Ordo Ursa," Ren places his hand on Erakas's chest, right where the Dragonborn's heart is. "Right here. And it always has been and always will be. Don't ever forget that. Because I won't."
Serandis Mendaen (Aereni Elven Rogue/maybe one day Wizard)- Project Point Playtest
A few of the drunks near Vassa catch the echoing note and clap. Durnan smirks at Vassa while handing him a drink. "If you only have 3 smells you can live without, you haven't lived yet. But me wounds are just fine. It'll take far more than that lot to bring me down. As for the portal, I hope you're not considering heading down. The Undermountain is more dangerous than you can imagine I think. The first level you get to is just the city sewer and even it has monsters as tough as those you fought tonight in it. And and further down you go the more dangerous it gets. I made my living in those tunnels and dungeons and got rich doing. But I've also seen a lot of folks die horrible deaths. No, it's best you stay out of there for now."
"Wise words and good advice, no doubt, Durnan. You're a credit to innkeeps everywhere! And fear not, I'll not be delving too deep anytime soon, lest not before I'm good and ready to do so. At the very least, I'll need to considerably improve my flute fingering before I'm fit to tackle the dangers of Undermountain!"
'Vassa gives Durnan a wink and takes a another sip of of his beverage. Taking a moment to gaze around the tavern while sureptitiously studying his new compainons, the bard taps his chin absentmindedly, briefly lost in contemplation.
The half-elf's thoughts consider, as his eyes take in the forms of, the battle-ready warforged, the rugged human ranger, the self-assured elvish wizard, the astute looking firbolg cleric and the young but vivacious tiefling sorcerress. What might they accomplish together, this strange but fascinating group of adventurers? What evils might they destroy? What depths might they delve...?
Then, as though suddenly remembering something, Vassa clicks his fingers, turns back to the burly human and says,'
"That reminds me. As you are no doubt aware, bards are given to composing great songs and stories as a means of spreading both joy and culture throughout the lands. I myself am currently working on an epic poem, or possibly a series of poems, which focus on revealing the wonders and beauty of hidden worlds and peoples to the common folk of the realms. On account of my own drow heritage, I have decided that my first works shall focus on the little known darkelves of the underdark. As such, I am in the process of researching the roots of my ancestry and would greatly appreciate it if you could let me know of anyone or anything that you know of that could shed some light, however slight, on the topic of the drow.
I anticipate spending considerable time in your fine establishment over the weeks and months ahead, so I can check in with you or be easily found should you have any information of this kind. Should you generously agree to assist me in this way, I promise that I shall first perform the poem here for you and your customers, free of charge. Indeed, should you be willing to provide rooms and board for my companions and I, either for free or at a suitably discounted rate, I would be most willing to perform for your patrons as time and tide allows. I believe that you've already noted the usefulness of my companions when it comes to unwanted guests. What say you?"
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land DM Beyond the Bitter Shore DM Echos of a Burning Crown
"Well that's kind of how it works. Pick a section of forest close to town, divide it into family sized farm plots, and come up with a program where you offer ownership of the land to a person if they can clear it and farm it for two years. Clearing and living costs are on them."
"Regarding existing farmland, when I was growing up way up north, I worked for a farmer. He couldn't find a druid to make his land more fertile so he would take manure and spread it over the fields in the spring. The manure did something to the crops and they produced about 25% more than they would have otherwise."
Kestrell pauses.
"Wait, you are concerned for the townsfolk, are you part of the surprise council or whatever its called that governs Waterdeep?"
Several of the group glares at you and Voadia says, "We know how it usually works. We don't need some nobody to interrupt our conversation telling us how it usually works. We were hand chosen by the Open Lord to find a better way to solve this issue"
'Aenio confidently states, looking around at his bickering tablemates. Noting their frowns and puzzled glances, he continues,'
"You farm UP! Only so much can be done with each square foot of land, even taking into account improvements to irrigation, aeration and fetilisation techniques. Why, even magic cannot force the soil itself to hold more yield potential and should magic be used to attempt this, you risk irrevocably harming the land and destroying your agricultural economy. So you farm UP! Vertical gardens, roof-top gardens, hanging gardens... considering the sheer size of this city, if you were to utilise existing wall space, roof space and perhaps construct areas of latticed frameworks in suitable locations throughout Waterdeep, I believe that you could probably transition all non-grain and orchard crops to this new farming paradigm, thereby freeing up sufficient land to double, perhaps even triple your existing grain yields. And with the magic that the lords of this city have at their disposal, creating said new infrastructure should not prove overly difficult ortime-consuming."
At first the committee just looks at you. But then as you expound on your idea they start to get excited. By the time you've finished with your description you see that nearly all of them are scribbling hurried notes. Except Aradani. He's staring straight at you with an appraising look in his eyes. "You, Mr. Aenio, may have potential. I doubt this idea of yours will survive the full review we will put it through but I would like to see more of how you solve problems. Would it be ok with you if I were to invite you to other meetings, to get your thoughts on other topics?"
Yagra appraises him and nods. "That you may, but damn it sounds fun. Let's do it." She puts her elbow on the table and extends her hand up, waiting on Lockbox."
"That reminds me. As you are no doubt aware, bards are given to composing great songs and stories as a means of spreading both joy and culture throughout the lands. I myself am currently working on an epic poem, or possibly a series of poems, which focus on revealing the wonders and beauty of hidden worlds and peoples to the common folk of the realms. On account of my own drow heritage, I have decided that my first works shall focus on the little known darkelves of the underdark. As such, I am in the process of researching the roots of my ancestry and would greatly appreciate it if you could let me know of anyone or anything that you know of that could shed some light, however slight, on the topic of the drow.
I anticipate spending considerable time in your fine establishment over the weeks and months ahead, so I can check in with you or be easily found should you have any information of this kind. Should you generously agree to assist me in this way, I promise that I shall first perform the poem here for you and your customers, free of charge. Indeed, should you be willing to provide rooms and board for my companions and I, either for free or at a suitably discounted rate, I would be most willing to perform for your patrons as time and tide allows. I believe that you've already noted the usefulness of my companions when it comes to unwanted guests. What say you?"
"I'm no historian. I know the Drow used to live in Undermountain. As did several other races. And I can tell you that they built a few things that still exist, such as the outpost of Kyorlamshin and The Crystal Labyrinth. But they've been absent from Undermountain for nearly a thousand years and a crazy wizard tends to run things down there now. If you need more than that, head to the library. As for the room, you and your friends can stay tonight on me. But tomorrow you pay like everyone else."
[OCC] Lots of updates. Y'all making me earn my keep. :D
At first the committee just looks at you. But then as you expound on your idea they start to get excited. By the time you've finished with your description you see that nearly all of them are scribbling hurried notes. Except Aradani. He's staring straight at you with an appraising look in his eyes. "You, Mr. Aenio, may have potential. I doubt this idea of yours will survive the full review we will put it through but I would like to see more of how you solve problems. Would it be ok with you if I were to invite you to other meetings, to get your thoughts on other topics?"
'Aenio is chewing the end of his pencil while contemplating an intriguing but frustratingly elusive thought that he'd had earlier while watching Asariel and Tiermat each casting fire at the dying troll, something regarding the potential combination of arcane and divine magics... when he realises that the old tiefling is talking to him again.'
"Err, sorry, what was that? A review? Problem solving? Meetings, you say? Well... I guess that I'd be happy to share ideas, in the spirit of increasing productive fields of knowledge that is, as long as I'm not busy with my work or other activities..."
'The elvish wizard starts to wonder what he's getting himself into - first friends and now committee meetings? Well, so long as it doesn't interfere with his real work, all would be fine...'
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land DM Beyond the Bitter Shore DM Echos of a Burning Crown
"I'm no historian. I know the Drow used to live in Undermountain. As did several other races. And I can tell you that they built a few things that still exist, such as the outpost of Kyorlamshin and The Crystal Labyrinth. But they've been absent from Undermountain for nearly a thousand years and a crazy wizard tends to run things down there now. If you need more than that, head to the library. As for the room, you and your friends can stay tonight on me. But tomorrow you pay like everyone else."
'Vassa nods appreciatively and makes a mental note of this outpost and Labyrinth that Durnan mentions, as well as this library that he spoke of. Not that he was a bonafide book worm or anything, preferring as he did the oral traditions of story-telling, as well as visual and performance art forms, but he could certainly appreciate the efforts of those who sought to collect and preserve knowledge. Smiling at this most-useful of barkeeps, the half-drow responds with a wink, as he stands to return to Lockbox and Yagra's table,'
"My thanks, Durnan. I'll let you know when the poem is complete... you know, so that you can publicize the event and alter decor for the reading. An initimate atmosphere would work best, I'd imagine. Velvet curtains, lots of candles, that sort of thing. And most fair of you to offer us rooms for the night. I'll take the largest one, preferably with a balcony if you have it!"
'In good spirits, the bard spins away into the crowd before the Innkeeper can respond. Seeing Lockbox and Yagra eyeing each other up, Vassa smiles the secret little smile that tends to emerge when he's about to do something that may have unforseen consequences. Leaping with a flourish of his cape onto a nearby table acrobatics check 20 the half-drow rings a bell loudly with one hand and holds up his newly acquired pouch of gold in the other, shouting in his best 'come and get it, folks' voice,'
"Have you ever wondered who the strongest person in this marvelous city is? Have you ever wanted to see TWO titans of physcial power tested against each other right before your very eyes? Or, like me, do you just love the thrill of a friendly wager over a nice refreshing beverage? If you'd say yes to any of these questions, or a dozen others besides, then ladies and gentlemen, do WE... HAVE... A... TREAT... FOR...YOU!"
'Pocketing both bell and coin, Vassa casts prestidigitation to make the lantern or torch nearest to Lockbox and Yagra's table flare up and burn brighter, while dimming those other light sources immediately around them, before hopping down to stand with his back to the two of them, facing the crowd,'
"I give you, Lockbox RUSTBUCKET and Yagra EYEPUNCHER, two behemoths of armwrestling who might very well smash this here table with the feat of mighty strength that they are about to perform! Who will triumph? Who will break? And more to the point... who among you will enjoy the show and maybe make a coin or two? I've got 10 dragons here, split any which way you want them, on the dented warforged, dear friend of mine that he is. Who'll step up and put their coin against mine on the FEROCOIUS and DEADLY, YAGRA?!?"
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land DM Beyond the Bitter Shore DM Echos of a Burning Crown
'Over the (hopefully) growing din of enthusiastic yelling and shouted bets, Vassa whispers over his shoulder to the Warforged,'
"You've GOT this, Locky. Just force the lovely half-orc lady's hand back, over and down onto the table. Easy, right? Do me proud and I'll get you a nice room in this lovely inn for the night."
'A wink and a half apologetic, half 'game on' smile is sent Yagra's way.'
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land DM Beyond the Bitter Shore DM Echos of a Burning Crown
Kestrell looks down sheepishly from Voadia's scolding, listens politely to the praise for the vertical farming and backs slowly away from the table. He heads over to the arm wrestling table to watch Lockbox and Yagra, listening to the conversations at each table as he passes.
Yagra appraises him and nods. "That you may, but damn it sounds fun. Let's do it." She puts her elbow on the table and extends her hand up, waiting on Lockbox."
Lockbox puts his elbow down and grips her hand. Planting his feet he stands up to get a good position. He didn't want to hurt this one, but he probably would if he wasn't careful.
"I am ready."
Athletics check: 18
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
"...Debts must always be paid, sometimes in more than blood and gold. But this is Ordo Ursa," Ren places his hand on Erakas's chest, right where the Dragonborn's heart is. "Right here. And it always has been and always will be. Don't ever forget that. Because I won't."
Serandis Mendaen (Aereni Elven Rogue/maybe one day Wizard)- Project Point Playtest
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”What’s arm wrestle?” Lockbox asks as he sits down, listening to his friend attempt some song he’s never heard. He tilts his head waiting for the song to end but contemplated making yet another enemy. Locky didn’t know much about life, but he knew everyone seemed to be out to get him. Just as well, he’s made due thus far. Nothing has really stopped his journey, only slowed him down.
"...Debts must always be paid, sometimes in more than blood and gold. But this is Ordo Ursa," Ren places his hand on Erakas's chest, right where the Dragonborn's heart is. "Right here. And it always has been and always will be. Don't ever forget that. Because I won't."
Serandis Mendaen (Aereni Elven Rogue/maybe one day Wizard)- Project Point Playtest
Campaigns:
DM - Waterdeep Dragon Heist PbP
[OOC] On behalf of Codester/Aenio
'Since being revived after the battle, Aenio has been walking around the large open well in the centre of the tavern, a fascinated look upon his face, an open book and quill in hand, apparently taking notes. Hearing Lockbox's question about arm-wrestling, he calls disinterestedly over his shoulder,'
"It's a primitive and aggressive use of muscle mass for no rational purpose other than to assert, or attempt to assert, dominance against like-minded primitive and aggressive people. Err, no offence intended and present company excluded... of course."
'Having made what notes he deemed relevant, the highelf begins studying the other patrons in the tavern, hoping-against-hope that there may be other wizards or intellectuals in the establishment. While he's enjoying the fellowship of his new companions readily enough, he really would love to discuss his latest insights on spell theory with another arcanist, particularly as it relates to fire and the vulnerabilities of certain creatures to magically harnessed elemental flame.'
[OOC] perception check 9. He will invite Asariel into this discussion as well and if he can't find a third arcane spell-caster in the tavern, he'll try to include Tiermat in the discussion, bringing up some of the finer theoretical distinctions regarding his arcane magic and the Firbolg's divine magic.
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist
DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land
DM Beyond the Bitter Shore
DM Echos of a Burning Crown
'Vassa continues playing, his lavender coloured eyes twinkling with a good natured acceptance of Yagra's witty jibe. Those last few notes had been rather off-key, he had to admit. All well and good - he was probably just a little out of breath after the battle. Letting the last dramatic notes of the woodwind instrument fade away, Vassa expertly slips the flute back into his belt and, as he spins away from Locky and Yagra's table, pulls his trusty rosewood lute from across his back and begins to play a more merry tune (Elvish Ale and Dwarven Wine) as he makes his way through the crowd towards Durnan.
Anticipating the likely upcoming armwrestling match between Lockbox and Yagra, Vassa feels moved to give his new friend a friendly confidence boost, calling out as he moves nimbly between the Portal's tables and patrons,'
"You've got this, Locky. I've got silver on Yagra, but I've got GOLD on you, my friend!"
[OOC] Bardic Inspiration 2
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist
DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land
DM Beyond the Bitter Shore
DM Echos of a Burning Crown
Aenio does see a few people who, based on their style of dress, he assumes are wizards but they all appear to be engaged in conversations with their companions. The ones he sees are:
a somewhat young female human
a very old male tiefling
a young female wood elf wizard
a middle age male hill dwarf
Campaigns:
DM - Waterdeep Dragon Heist PbP
'Aenio chooses the very old male tiefling, purely on the likelihood that due to his age and experience, he may be more knowledgeable. His research journal clutched visibly in hand, the highelf says,'
"Evening to you, good sir. Might I take a seat? It has been a most eventful night and I find myself desiring some learned company with which to enjoy a more intellectual form of interaction. I hope that you will forgive me for being so bold, but I couldn't help but notice that you look like a individual familiar with, and perhaps greatly experienced in, spellcraft. I myself am newly set upon my path to arcane mastery, but would greatly appreciate the opportunity to sit and enjoy fruitful discourse with one as accomplished as yourself."
[OOC] Aenio will discuss anything arcane related with the old tiefling, but is particularly interested in anything the spell-caster may know about researching new spells and other magics. investigation 7 if required.
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist
DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land
DM Beyond the Bitter Shore
DM Echos of a Burning Crown
What you can observe about the group:
Campaigns:
DM - Waterdeep Dragon Heist PbP
Kestrell overhears Aenio talking to the farming group and goes over to introduce himself.
"Hi, I'm Aenio's friend Kestrell. I know a little about farming. You mentioned that you wanted to increase yields with the existing amount of farmland. Why don't you use more farmland? Or import more grains and vegetables using your fabulous port?"
Kestrell looks at Voadia:
"Are you a farmer, yourself?"
'As he moves up next to the bar near Durnan, Vassa finishes his lute number, capping what he hopes is an improved performance with a magical trick prestidigitation that causes his last few chords to echo on momentarily after he has finished playing.' performance check 17
"How're those wounds holding up, Durnan? That troll really planted one on you, not to mention that giant mosquito bite! Though you certainly gave as good as you got. Pretty impressive moves for an innkeep, to say nothing of that very fine sword of yours. Never a dull night in here though, I guess. I'm just glad that we didn't drop in on devils and demons night."
'Vassa will place a silver shard on the counter and give the burly innkeep his most comradely smile, then, with a *snap* of his fingers, summon the fresh scents of an apple orchard around the bar area, saying,'
"The smell of burnt troll is now officially on my list of 3 smells that I can live without ever experiencing again. A glass of something pungent and sweet, if you would be so kind, to help wash away that cloying odor."
'As the half-drow sips his drink, he will begin to ask Durnan about the adventures that the man must have had, as well as trying to find out more about the Yawning Portal, or more particularly the tunnels, chambers and other areas beneath the City of Splendours.' investigation check 13
Specifically, Vassa is trying to find out, without asking too bluntly, if there are tunnels beneath the city that connect with the fabled underdark and if there have been sightings of drow or word of any communities of theirs that might exist nearby.
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist
DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land
DM Beyond the Bitter Shore
DM Echos of a Burning Crown
Campaigns:
DM - Waterdeep Dragon Heist PbP
"Well that's kind of how it works. Pick a section of forest close to town, divide it into family sized farm plots, and come up with a program where you offer ownership of the land to a person if they can clear it and farm it for two years. Clearing and living costs are on them."
"Regarding existing farmland, when I was growing up way up north, I worked for a farmer. He couldn't find a druid to make his land more fertile so he would take manure and spread it over the fields in the spring. The manure did something to the crops and they produced about 25% more than they would have otherwise."
Kestrell pauses.
"Wait, you are concerned for the townsfolk, are you part of the surprise council or whatever its called that governs Waterdeep?"
"Up...",
'Aenio confidently states, looking around at his bickering tablemates. Noting their frowns and puzzled glances, he continues,'
"You farm UP! Only so much can be done with each square foot of land, even taking into account improvements to irrigation, aeration and fetilisation techniques. Why, even magic cannot force the soil itself to hold more yield potential and should magic be used to attempt this, you risk irrevocably harming the land and destroying your agricultural economy. So you farm UP! Vertical gardens, roof-top gardens, hanging gardens... considering the sheer size of this city, if you were to utilise existing wall space, roof space and perhaps construct areas of latticed frameworks in suitable locations throughout Waterdeep, I believe that you could probably transition all non-grain and orchard crops to this new farming paradigm, thereby freeing up sufficient land to double, perhaps even triple your existing grain yields. And with the magic that the lords of this city have at their disposal, creating said new infrastructure should not prove overly difficult or time-consuming."
'The elvish wizard looks pleased with his proposed solution and begins making notes about potential new spells that could be used to help bring about this new agricultural wonderland.'
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist
DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land
DM Beyond the Bitter Shore
DM Echos of a Burning Crown
"I would break you," Lockbox says very pointedly. He cocks his head and looks at her muscular arms. They would have no match for his plated arm. And he liked this one, she seemed eager to show her skill in many forms. He didn't realize that he was possibly challenging her even more, anyone who talked this one could tell she wouldn't turn away from a fight or a challenge.
Locky wasn't anyone, though.
"...Debts must always be paid, sometimes in more than blood and gold. But this is Ordo Ursa," Ren places his hand on Erakas's chest, right where the Dragonborn's heart is. "Right here. And it always has been and always will be. Don't ever forget that. Because I won't."
Serandis Mendaen (Aereni Elven Rogue/maybe one day Wizard)- Project Point Playtest
"Wise words and good advice, no doubt, Durnan. You're a credit to innkeeps everywhere! And fear not, I'll not be delving too deep anytime soon, lest not before I'm good and ready to do so. At the very least, I'll need to considerably improve my flute fingering before I'm fit to tackle the dangers of Undermountain!"
'Vassa gives Durnan a wink and takes a another sip of of his beverage. Taking a moment to gaze around the tavern while sureptitiously studying his new compainons, the bard taps his chin absentmindedly, briefly lost in contemplation.
The half-elf's thoughts consider, as his eyes take in the forms of, the battle-ready warforged, the rugged human ranger, the self-assured elvish wizard, the astute looking firbolg cleric and the young but vivacious tiefling sorcerress. What might they accomplish together, this strange but fascinating group of adventurers? What evils might they destroy? What depths might they delve...?
Then, as though suddenly remembering something, Vassa clicks his fingers, turns back to the burly human and says,'
"That reminds me. As you are no doubt aware, bards are given to composing great songs and stories as a means of spreading both joy and culture throughout the lands. I myself am currently working on an epic poem, or possibly a series of poems, which focus on revealing the wonders and beauty of hidden worlds and peoples to the common folk of the realms. On account of my own drow heritage, I have decided that my first works shall focus on the little known darkelves of the underdark. As such, I am in the process of researching the roots of my ancestry and would greatly appreciate it if you could let me know of anyone or anything that you know of that could shed some light, however slight, on the topic of the drow.
I anticipate spending considerable time in your fine establishment over the weeks and months ahead, so I can check in with you or be easily found should you have any information of this kind. Should you generously agree to assist me in this way, I promise that I shall first perform the poem here for you and your customers, free of charge. Indeed, should you be willing to provide rooms and board for my companions and I, either for free or at a suitably discounted rate, I would be most willing to perform for your patrons as time and tide allows. I believe that you've already noted the usefulness of my companions when it comes to unwanted guests. What say you?"
[OOC] persuade check 11
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist
DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land
DM Beyond the Bitter Shore
DM Echos of a Burning Crown
[OCC] Lots of updates. Y'all making me earn my keep. :D
Campaigns:
DM - Waterdeep Dragon Heist PbP
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist
DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land
DM Beyond the Bitter Shore
DM Echos of a Burning Crown
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist
DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land
DM Beyond the Bitter Shore
DM Echos of a Burning Crown
'Over the (hopefully) growing din of enthusiastic yelling and shouted bets, Vassa whispers over his shoulder to the Warforged,'
"You've GOT this, Locky. Just force the lovely half-orc lady's hand back, over and down onto the table. Easy, right? Do me proud and I'll get you a nice room in this lovely inn for the night."
'A wink and a half apologetic, half 'game on' smile is sent Yagra's way.'
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist
DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land
DM Beyond the Bitter Shore
DM Echos of a Burning Crown
Kestrell looks down sheepishly from Voadia's scolding, listens politely to the praise for the vertical farming and backs slowly away from the table. He heads over to the arm wrestling table to watch Lockbox and Yagra, listening to the conversations at each table as he passes.
Lockbox puts his elbow down and grips her hand. Planting his feet he stands up to get a good position. He didn't want to hurt this one, but he probably would if he wasn't careful.
"I am ready."
Athletics check: 18
"...Debts must always be paid, sometimes in more than blood and gold. But this is Ordo Ursa," Ren places his hand on Erakas's chest, right where the Dragonborn's heart is. "Right here. And it always has been and always will be. Don't ever forget that. Because I won't."
Serandis Mendaen (Aereni Elven Rogue/maybe one day Wizard)- Project Point Playtest