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Union!- Errydha (Homebrew) Setting Embers in the Dark - Errydha (Homebrew) Setting Welcome to the Jungle- Far Realms Citadel of the Unsleeping Sun - Erathis (Grim Hollow) Setting
Yevelda the Mutt- 3rd Level Half-Orc Battlemaster Fighter- Far Realms Rehgys- 5th Level Satyr Bard of Eloquence- Far Realms
Nothing is more miserable than a rainy day in the Docklands. The small rooms and apartments are moist on the best of days, but now they are dripping, paying testament to the leaky roofs and the rotting timber miraculously still holding up the entire edifice. Could be a metaphor in there.
Tarian was lost in thought, and the weather wasn’t helping her mood. She had received a scrawled note on what looked like hospital stationary. The handwriting was mostly a scrawl, but the words were clear enough.
”Have information, if I live long enough. Help me and I might be able to give you information you seek. They know, need to be careful. Meet me near the White Maid, at 7 o’clock.”
She still had three hours, hopefully this wasn’t a prank or another false lead...
————————
Brandt disliked the rain, made the powder of his weapons useless. And right now, he didn’t like to have useless weapons. When he had received a letter with official stationary and sent from the Corphyrean confederation, he was taken aback to say the least. But now, having come to the spot specified in the letter, something felt off. The tall crooked houses around him were full of small windows and the alley was tight and poorly lit. Judging by the homeless veteran lying in a pool of his own piss, blissful in his drunken stupor, no one would come to his aid here. Perfect place for an ambush. Still though, curiousity weighed heavier, and he was still here.
All of a sudden a creaky small door to what looked and mostly smelled like a butcher’s shop opened up, and a large human man bursts forth, wiping a bloody cleaver on a dirty rag, with sweaty hands. His sleeves rolled up, he jerks his greasy palm outward to you and his face splits into a grin, revealing teeth more rotten and crooked than the leaning houses all around. With a voice like a oilslick, he says:
”Trevor Borrick, nice to make your acquintance. I’m sure you have some questions. Why don’t you follow me upstairs, Mr Sparks will explain...”
————————
Milo was in a chipper mood, despite the dreadful weather. A small fortune for a small package to deliver, easy money. He didn’t like the customer who gave him the package, greasy, vile type. But then many of his customers fit that description, something of an occupational hazard.
This was, what, his seventh time to Duskrock? The city still stunned him every time, with the spires and mansions of Uptown and the Northward visible for miles, and the smokestacks of the Forge providing for a very distinctive skyline.
After two more hours weaving through the narrow streets, he had gotten to the right address. Usually his packages were accepted in person, but his customer specified, that this package he was to place on the doorstep and then leave. Half the money he had gotten already, half would be sent to him a day or so after. All he had to do was to extend his stay in Duskrock until he received his payment. Simple, the way he liked it.
As he grabbed the package, ready to place it on the doorstep of this worker tenement, he noticed something unusual however. His fingers were sticky with something that was leaking out of the package. Had he broken it? Depending on what was in the package, that could mean very bad news...
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Union!- Errydha (Homebrew) Setting Embers in the Dark - Errydha (Homebrew) Setting Welcome to the Jungle- Far Realms Citadel of the Unsleeping Sun - Erathis (Grim Hollow) Setting
Yevelda the Mutt- 3rd Level Half-Orc Battlemaster Fighter- Far Realms Rehgys- 5th Level Satyr Bard of Eloquence- Far Realms
“Well that’s unfortunate.” Milo whispers to himself. Taking the time to scope the situation in a spot out of sight. Watching the area for the prime time to make the drop without anyone seeing. Anonymity is key with drops. Casting unseen servant “Jackson, be a dear and hold onto this.” Giving the leaking package to the invisible specter. “When I give the order, deliver the package on the stoop.”
This is inconvenient. Brandt thought to himself. The rain meant that his rifle would need some time to dry off before it would be of any use to him, not like it would be much good in an alley anyway. Rifles weren't really meant to be used in closed spaces. Thankfully, he had his rapier and dagger on him for situations like this. He ignores the homeless veteran, only giving enough of a glance his way to avoid stepping in the puddle of urine that he had left on the street. When the door opens to reveal a disgusting butcher named Trevor, Brandt declines his offer of a a handshake, keeping both of his hands firmly in his pockets. "I'm Brandt. Take me to Mr. Sparks, so that I can get my job."
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Xenophon: Topaz Dragonborn Fighter (ixi's Dragon of Icespire Peak)
Milo fades into the shadows easily enough. Finding a spot from where he can observe the door, he gives Jackson the order to place the package.
As Jackson enters the bright cone of a nearby Everlamp, Milo sees that the back right corner of the package is dripping and the wrapping paper is soaked up with a dark liquid. The package doesn’t seem damaged though.
————————
The mountain of a man shook abruptly with a series of short chuckles. “Hem he he. Straight to the point. Follow me, it’s just up these stairs.”, the statement underlined by an overly welcoming hand gesture, as he holds open the small door to the cramped and dark back room. Brandt notices that the cleaver has never left his hand however.
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Union!- Errydha (Homebrew) Setting Embers in the Dark - Errydha (Homebrew) Setting Welcome to the Jungle- Far Realms Citadel of the Unsleeping Sun - Erathis (Grim Hollow) Setting
Yevelda the Mutt- 3rd Level Half-Orc Battlemaster Fighter- Far Realms Rehgys- 5th Level Satyr Bard of Eloquence- Far Realms
After Jackson places the package down. Milo will leave after dispelling his servant “Thank you, Jackson. Your services are no longer required at this time.” Making his way back to the tavern to stay and await his payment. Sticking to the shadows the best he can, while maintaining a nonchalant persona.
A nauseating smell of rotting flesh hits Brandt as he steps into the dark room, making his eyes water. He gladly headed up the small, crooked stairs to an upper room. Far too cramped for the Butcher, he waits outside. As Brandt steps into the small room, illuminated by a single candle, his gaze quickly fixes on the small gnome with the neatly trimmed beard and the clean suit. Before he could say anything, the gnome spoke up, with a soft voice, and a very deliberate manner of speech:
"Mr Brandt, sorry for this subterfuge, but what I'm proposing to you is delicate. I needed to make sure that my competitors won't be able to interfere. My name is Derbert Sparks, I believe you may know why I'm in the city. Unfortunately, that is where you have me at a disadvantage. Being a mercenary, I was unable to find your service record. Please, enlighten me, where did you serve?"
--------
Leaving the leaking package on the doorstep, Milo emerged from the shadows to follow the narrow alleys to a nearby tavern. After about fifteen minutes, he came across a small tavern nestled under an overpass. Every time the doors opened, he was met with jovial music from within, and saw the small sign hanging above the door illuminated. Deciding that the place made a friendly enough appearance, Milo entered the "Golden Gears" tavern.
Opening the door and stepping inside, his nose was quickly filled by the smell of hearty meat pies and the smell of bitter ales, and strong tobacco being smoked. Letting his eyes wander through the room, most tables were empty, though a couple of long haired and robed figures sat close to the stage towards the far end of the room, on which a warforged unit was playing an interestingly jovial yet longing tune on a small guitar. After the end of the piece, a young man from among the onlookers clapped, which was met by a courteous nod from the warforged unit.
To the left was the bar and kitchen, with a small human barkeep with big bushy whiskers pretending to be busy cleaning a few tankards. Meeting your gaze, he asks in a gruff tone: "Ale 'n pie? Rooms are all took."
------
Corti liked to perform in the Forge, mostly because the audience would change every night. Tonight, the crowd wasn't great however. It was still early she told herself. After about half an hour of playing, she noticed that a robed man clapped after every one of her pieces, seeming to pay her particular attention. Was he her contact? Trying to gage her audience, she decided to play a song of camaraderie and loss, a piece that was well known among many soldiers, but that had recently been picked up by students and reinterpreted as an anti-war classic. WIth her guitar, she decided to add a few original riffs and beats to the song, making it her own. She only noticed the halfling enter the tavern as she was finished with the song, and was again met with the singular applause from the young man.
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Union!- Errydha (Homebrew) Setting Embers in the Dark - Errydha (Homebrew) Setting Welcome to the Jungle- Far Realms Citadel of the Unsleeping Sun - Erathis (Grim Hollow) Setting
Yevelda the Mutt- 3rd Level Half-Orc Battlemaster Fighter- Far Realms Rehgys- 5th Level Satyr Bard of Eloquence- Far Realms
"Ah, you know. Here and there. I'm a mercenary, we go wherever the money is. I fought in a lot of battles for a few high-paying customers during the war."
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Xenophon: Topaz Dragonborn Fighter (ixi's Dragon of Icespire Peak)
Milo sits down at the bar straddling the seat sideways, giving him the ability to talk to the bartender and watch the entertainment. “Sure I could go for a meal and a drink. Any chance you know of a place that’s got some space available for a day or two? I’d hate to ask you about your competition, but seeing how you’re full...” Milo puts whatever the cost for the meal plus 2 gold down on the counter.
Corti sighed to herself as she finished the song, her curiosity beginning to get the better of her. I may as well go talk to that man, she thought, I should save a ballad or two for later tonight, anyhow. After receiving a silent nod of permission from the barkeep, she hopped off the stage, taking her guitar with her, and made a beeline for the young, robed man's table. She took notice of the halfling, and hoped that more patrons will follow after him. As she approached the man's table, she waved. "Hello, sir! Had an alright day?"
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Corti- Warforged bard (Union!)
Hadar Jaffe- Half-elf Knowledge Domain Cleric (Nemo's Citadel of the Unsleeping Sun)
Sparks squints at Brandt’s answer, replying in a neutral tone, like a poker player making a bet:
”So, you fought for multiple sides then?” and with a nod towards the rifle on Brandt’s back added “Have you seen the devastation that these things can wreak?”
————————
The bartender, irritated at the question, barks the order for a pie and ale to a cook in the back room, before turning back to Milo. At the sight of the considerable tip, he gives the halfling the most servile smile that he can muster and whistles: “Well, if you’re payin’ this well sir, I’m sure I could convince a customer to seek lodgings elsewhere. Pretty sure that canner over there dun’t even need ta sleep...”
————————
The man was half-elven, Corti now saw. Probably didn’t like that fact about himself though, judging by the locks of hair placed to cover his pointed ears. His clothes were simple, but well made and clean, apart from the right sleeve, which had a half-washed out ink blot just below the wrist which stained the otherwise white shirt of the student. The man, looking her up and down, answered in a cryptic tone: “The days are long and the nights are cold. But a good song can lift spirits and change hearts.”
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Union!- Errydha (Homebrew) Setting Embers in the Dark - Errydha (Homebrew) Setting Welcome to the Jungle- Far Realms Citadel of the Unsleeping Sun - Erathis (Grim Hollow) Setting
Yevelda the Mutt- 3rd Level Half-Orc Battlemaster Fighter- Far Realms Rehgys- 5th Level Satyr Bard of Eloquence- Far Realms
"Of course I know how dangerous these things are. I once shot off a man's head from 400 feet away using this. I don't need anyone to lecture me about the destructive capabilities of my weapons. Now, what do you need me to do for you?"
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Xenophon: Topaz Dragonborn Fighter (ixi's Dragon of Icespire Peak)
“Oh yes, just fine.” Noticing the nod between bartender and performer “Hopefully the patrons are treating you well with songs as good as that. It would be a shame to see that talent go unappreciated.” Spinning in his seat to be fully facing the warforged. “Tell me, is there something I can get you; food, drink?”
« Mr Brandt, I feel you are missing the significance of your position here. Corphyra is in a fragile place now, and unless wefind a way to forge a new unity, the ceasefire won’t last.
Mercenaries like yourself know soldiers from all sides of the war. Who better to negotiate between them? Plus, I could always use a trained gunner in my service, Mr Borrick is a somewhat ... cruder... tool.
Tomorrow I will unveil two new inventions to the Corphyrean Council. Together, they will bring the nations of Corphyra together in commerce, peace and harmony.
The first I call they Railcoach, a stage coach propelled not by the power of a draft animal, but by the power of fire itself. On iron roads, it will enable transport and travel over the entire continent in unmatched speeds.
The second is the Telescribe, a machine by which I can send messages through wires across vast distances without the need of a caster. Information could be verified in an instant and rumours would no longer dominate Corphyrean politics.
Together, I will propose a project to link all of Corphyrea by building a metal artery across the entire continent. I will get the votes from the Confederation, but I will need people who can open doors that are closed to me on the way. And with what you’ve seen, who better to advocate for the use of technology to finally advance the cause for peace? What do you say Mr Brandt, can I count on your services to build this iron road? »
As he was speaking his eyes lit up with a passionate fire of a creator seeing the potential of his inventions carried forward across the land and beyond. His outstrechted hand is trembling with excitement.
————————
The half-elven male turns around surprised at the halfling that had joined their group unannounced and now sat in the middle of the group of students. Taken aback, he didn’t really know what to say.
»Pardon me sir, but I don’t have the pleasure of having made your acquaintance, my name is Carlo Merrix. «, he stammered out, hand outstretched to the Halfling, but eyes fixed on the Warforged, whom he had intended to speak with.
Union!- Errydha (Homebrew) Setting Embers in the Dark - Errydha (Homebrew) Setting Welcome to the Jungle- Far Realms Citadel of the Unsleeping Sun - Erathis (Grim Hollow) Setting
Yevelda the Mutt- 3rd Level Half-Orc Battlemaster Fighter- Far Realms Rehgys- 5th Level Satyr Bard of Eloquence- Far Realms
"It's not the job that I was expecting to do when I got called in, but sure, I'll do it." Brandt wasn't exactly excited about his new job, but he didn't really have anything else to do with his life right now, so he took it up. I hope that the pay is good, at least.
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Xenophon: Topaz Dragonborn Fighter (ixi's Dragon of Icespire Peak)
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Tarian turned the paper over and over, looking for some hidden message she knew she would never find. Finally she folded the paper back up and tucked it into her vest pocket.
Seven, hmm? she thought. I’ve got some time to kill. She stared out the open window, down to the sodden streets below. While the view was nice on occasion, the top floor wasn’t where the best business was conducted. The top floor, drafty, wet, and cold, was where people who weren’t needed paid the front desk to be stored. If this doesn’t pan out, forget moving the office down to a better floor, I might not even be able to stay in a proper living space.
She grabbed her room key and went to the door, pushing past the stray cat that had been coming through the window for a place to sleep the last few days. “You’re on your own today, cat.”
Her own words resonated within her mind. You’re on your own today. Tarian stopped, turned back around, and took the two paces over to her makeshift armor rack in the one corner of the room that always stayed dry. If I’m going to have an evening out, I’d better get dressed for the occasion.
Gambeson, check. Belts properly fastened. Chain mail, check. Fitted, adjusted, no damage that would affect performance. Waterproof cloak, check. Can’t have rusty armor. Shield, arming sword, check and check. Crossbow string is tight, plenty of bolts.
Alright. Go time.
Tarian left her room, locked the door, and headed down the three flights of stairs to the bottom floor.
“Looks like someone’s headed to a fancy dinner party.” A stout-looking woman leaned over the counter at the entrance. Tarian suspected the building owner may have had some dwarf blood in her some generations back.
“Sure, Elise. A nice date with the White Maid.”
Elise narrowed her eyes, quirked a brow, and turned sidelong to eye Tarian for a moment, then the proprietress quickly got back to chiseling the dovetail joint she had been working on before Tarian came downstairs. “Just be careful. If you’re not back in a few days I’m selling your stuff to pay for your room.”
“Gotcha.” Tarian made a brief salute as she strode past Elise. “Say hi to Dannar for me, and let him know my room still has that leak.”
Tarian wasn’t going to march into the White Maid unprepared. It took a while, but she tracked down an orc she was acquainted with at one of the rougher bars in the Docklands.
“Look, Grumm,” Tarian growled in orcish, “all I need you to do is just be there, and maybe help me out if it looks like I’m in trouble. Keep an eye on me.”
“Dun wanna.”
“You love the White Maid.”
“Not listening.”
“No orc woman’s gonna bare her tusks at you if you aren’t gonna throw a punch when someone wants you to. Look, I’ll even keep quiet about the dreamroot incident, alright? Just watch, maybe hit some people.”
Grumm gave a noncommittal grunt and his usual inscrutable scowl.
“I’m going to take that as a yes. See you around seven.” Tarian stepped away, hoping she had convinced the orc to act as her backup. I guess I’ll find out around seven.
The White Maid was everything Tarian’s parents said was exactly the wrong place to be. Also not a place she preferred to go, even for a case. The local dockworkers might know her face, but any sailors from ships not from Duskrock have the tendency to mistake any female as one of the White Maid’s ladies. She had even seen a sailor drunkenly propositioning a lost warforged with a slight build in the street in front of the building once.
But the note said “near,” and not “in,” so at least today Tarian wouldn’t have to go inside. She was early, but she wanted to check out the situation, perhaps get an eye on her contact, or one of the “they” that “know,” or hopefully spot Grumm there to back her up.
Now reading his social faux pas, not realizing he jumped into an intended private conversation conversation. “My apologies, my name is Milo, as another who enjoys the study of music and art, I simply wanted to talk to the performer. But I will let you two converse, it appears the tavern keep and I have some business after all.” Looking to the warforged who just played. “Maybe we will get a chance to converse a bit later?”
Making his way back to the barkeep “Only if it’s not too much trouble... I will require fresh linens of course.” As he waits for his meal.
Tarian looked out into the crooked alleyways, no sight of Grumm. Perfect. She waited as the clocks around the docks struck seven, she waited until they struck a quarter past. Just as she was heading back into the alley that would lead her back home, a figure rushed at her from a shadowy niche, pulling her into the shadows. She drew her knife in a split second, putting it to the throat of her assailant.
Her eyes widened in shock. Though gaunt and frail, with wild tufts of matted grey hair and an unruly stubble, she still recognised the man before her. His was one of five faces she’d never forget. He was sergeant Marcellus Riley, who had brought the mortally wounded officer to her mother all those years ago. None of the pride and strength of that man remained however. The man before her was broken, his eyes opened wide in sheer terror, and darting about in paranoia. At the sight of her recognition, he squeaked firth a whisper, a cruel shadow of the once booming voice of this man.
« I hoped you’d recognise me. You need to help me, please. They got several of us already. Hector has left the city, trying to get away. They’re going to get me too, if you don’t help me. Please, I’m begging you, I’ll die without your help. »
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Union!- Errydha (Homebrew) Setting Embers in the Dark - Errydha (Homebrew) Setting Welcome to the Jungle- Far Realms Citadel of the Unsleeping Sun - Erathis (Grim Hollow) Setting
Yevelda the Mutt- 3rd Level Half-Orc Battlemaster Fighter- Far Realms Rehgys- 5th Level Satyr Bard of Eloquence- Far Realms
« Great, I’m glad to have you on board. » Sparks gleamed at Brandt’s words. « Now then, I’m sorry, but I need to make some last prepartions for tomorrow. Before leaving, Borrick will pay you for your first week. You will find the pay adequate, I’m sure. Be in front of the Confederation building tomorrow at noon, and you’ll see the railcoach with your own eyes. »
Heading outside, the vile butcher handed Brandt a small pouch of coins. A quick look and heft of the purse tells him that Sparks had set his weekly wage around fifty gold pieces.
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Union!- Errydha (Homebrew) Setting Embers in the Dark - Errydha (Homebrew) Setting Welcome to the Jungle- Far Realms Citadel of the Unsleeping Sun - Erathis (Grim Hollow) Setting
Yevelda the Mutt- 3rd Level Half-Orc Battlemaster Fighter- Far Realms Rehgys- 5th Level Satyr Bard of Eloquence- Far Realms
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Note: Please write here only in character, anything that isn’t clear or where you would like more information is better handled via PM
Union!- Errydha (Homebrew) Setting
Embers in the Dark - Errydha (Homebrew) Setting
Welcome to the Jungle- Far Realms
Citadel of the Unsleeping Sun - Erathis (Grim Hollow) Setting
Yevelda the Mutt- 3rd Level Half-Orc Battlemaster Fighter- Far Realms
Rehgys- 5th Level Satyr Bard of Eloquence- Far Realms
Nothing is more miserable than a rainy day in the Docklands. The small rooms and apartments are moist on the best of days, but now they are dripping, paying testament to the leaky roofs and the rotting timber miraculously still holding up the entire edifice. Could be a metaphor in there.
Tarian was lost in thought, and the weather wasn’t helping her mood. She had received a scrawled note on what looked like hospital stationary. The handwriting was mostly a scrawl, but the words were clear enough.
”Have information, if I live long enough. Help me and I might be able to give you information you seek. They know, need to be careful. Meet me near the White Maid, at 7 o’clock.”
She still had three hours, hopefully this wasn’t a prank or another false lead...
————————
Brandt disliked the rain, made the powder of his weapons useless. And right now, he didn’t like to have useless weapons. When he had received a letter with official stationary and sent from the Corphyrean confederation, he was taken aback to say the least. But now, having come to the spot specified in the letter, something felt off. The tall crooked houses around him were full of small windows and the alley was tight and poorly lit. Judging by the homeless veteran lying in a pool of his own piss, blissful in his drunken stupor, no one would come to his aid here. Perfect place for an ambush. Still though, curiousity weighed heavier, and he was still here.
All of a sudden a creaky small door to what looked and mostly smelled like a butcher’s shop opened up, and a large human man bursts forth, wiping a bloody cleaver on a dirty rag, with sweaty hands. His sleeves rolled up, he jerks his greasy palm outward to you and his face splits into a grin, revealing teeth more rotten and crooked than the leaning houses all around. With a voice like a oilslick, he says:
”Trevor Borrick, nice to make your acquintance. I’m sure you have some questions. Why don’t you follow me upstairs, Mr Sparks will explain...”
————————
Milo was in a chipper mood, despite the dreadful weather. A small fortune for a small package to deliver, easy money. He didn’t like the customer who gave him the package, greasy, vile type. But then many of his customers fit that description, something of an occupational hazard.
This was, what, his seventh time to Duskrock? The city still stunned him every time, with the spires and mansions of Uptown and the Northward visible for miles, and the smokestacks of the Forge providing for a very distinctive skyline.
After two more hours weaving through the narrow streets, he had gotten to the right address. Usually his packages were accepted in person, but his customer specified, that this package he was to place on the doorstep and then leave. Half the money he had gotten already, half would be sent to him a day or so after. All he had to do was to extend his stay in Duskrock until he received his payment. Simple, the way he liked it.
As he grabbed the package, ready to place it on the doorstep of this worker tenement, he noticed something unusual however. His fingers were sticky with something that was leaking out of the package. Had he broken it? Depending on what was in the package, that could mean very bad news...
Union!- Errydha (Homebrew) Setting
Embers in the Dark - Errydha (Homebrew) Setting
Welcome to the Jungle- Far Realms
Citadel of the Unsleeping Sun - Erathis (Grim Hollow) Setting
Yevelda the Mutt- 3rd Level Half-Orc Battlemaster Fighter- Far Realms
Rehgys- 5th Level Satyr Bard of Eloquence- Far Realms
“Well that’s unfortunate.” Milo whispers to himself. Taking the time to scope the situation in a spot out of sight. Watching the area for the prime time to make the drop without anyone seeing. Anonymity is key with drops. Casting unseen servant “Jackson, be a dear and hold onto this.” Giving the leaking package to the invisible specter. “When I give the order, deliver the package on the stoop.”
Stealth: 21
Perception: 17
This is inconvenient. Brandt thought to himself. The rain meant that his rifle would need some time to dry off before it would be of any use to him, not like it would be much good in an alley anyway. Rifles weren't really meant to be used in closed spaces. Thankfully, he had his rapier and dagger on him for situations like this. He ignores the homeless veteran, only giving enough of a glance his way to avoid stepping in the puddle of urine that he had left on the street. When the door opens to reveal a disgusting butcher named Trevor, Brandt declines his offer of a a handshake, keeping both of his hands firmly in his pockets. "I'm Brandt. Take me to Mr. Sparks, so that I can get my job."
Xenophon: Topaz Dragonborn Fighter (ixi's Dragon of Icespire Peak)
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Milo fades into the shadows easily enough. Finding a spot from where he can observe the door, he gives Jackson the order to place the package.
As Jackson enters the bright cone of a nearby Everlamp, Milo sees that the back right corner of the package is dripping and the wrapping paper is soaked up with a dark liquid. The package doesn’t seem damaged though.
————————
The mountain of a man shook abruptly with a series of short chuckles. “Hem he he. Straight to the point. Follow me, it’s just up these stairs.”, the statement underlined by an overly welcoming hand gesture, as he holds open the small door to the cramped and dark back room. Brandt notices that the cleaver has never left his hand however.
Union!- Errydha (Homebrew) Setting
Embers in the Dark - Errydha (Homebrew) Setting
Welcome to the Jungle- Far Realms
Citadel of the Unsleeping Sun - Erathis (Grim Hollow) Setting
Yevelda the Mutt- 3rd Level Half-Orc Battlemaster Fighter- Far Realms
Rehgys- 5th Level Satyr Bard of Eloquence- Far Realms
Brandt grows suspicious of the disgusting butcher and he moves one of his hands out of his pockets and puts it on his rapier as he enters the room.
Xenophon: Topaz Dragonborn Fighter (ixi's Dragon of Icespire Peak)
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After Jackson places the package down. Milo will leave after dispelling his servant “Thank you, Jackson. Your services are no longer required at this time.” Making his way back to the tavern to stay and await his payment. Sticking to the shadows the best he can, while maintaining a nonchalant persona.
A nauseating smell of rotting flesh hits Brandt as he steps into the dark room, making his eyes water. He gladly headed up the small, crooked stairs to an upper room. Far too cramped for the Butcher, he waits outside. As Brandt steps into the small room, illuminated by a single candle, his gaze quickly fixes on the small gnome with the neatly trimmed beard and the clean suit. Before he could say anything, the gnome spoke up, with a soft voice, and a very deliberate manner of speech:
"Mr Brandt, sorry for this subterfuge, but what I'm proposing to you is delicate. I needed to make sure that my competitors won't be able to interfere. My name is Derbert Sparks, I believe you may know why I'm in the city. Unfortunately, that is where you have me at a disadvantage. Being a mercenary, I was unable to find your service record. Please, enlighten me, where did you serve?"
--------
Leaving the leaking package on the doorstep, Milo emerged from the shadows to follow the narrow alleys to a nearby tavern. After about fifteen minutes, he came across a small tavern nestled under an overpass. Every time the doors opened, he was met with jovial music from within, and saw the small sign hanging above the door illuminated. Deciding that the place made a friendly enough appearance, Milo entered the "Golden Gears" tavern.
Opening the door and stepping inside, his nose was quickly filled by the smell of hearty meat pies and the smell of bitter ales, and strong tobacco being smoked. Letting his eyes wander through the room, most tables were empty, though a couple of long haired and robed figures sat close to the stage towards the far end of the room, on which a warforged unit was playing an interestingly jovial yet longing tune on a small guitar. After the end of the piece, a young man from among the onlookers clapped, which was met by a courteous nod from the warforged unit.
To the left was the bar and kitchen, with a small human barkeep with big bushy whiskers pretending to be busy cleaning a few tankards. Meeting your gaze, he asks in a gruff tone: "Ale 'n pie? Rooms are all took."
------
Corti liked to perform in the Forge, mostly because the audience would change every night. Tonight, the crowd wasn't great however. It was still early she told herself. After about half an hour of playing, she noticed that a robed man clapped after every one of her pieces, seeming to pay her particular attention. Was he her contact? Trying to gage her audience, she decided to play a song of camaraderie and loss, a piece that was well known among many soldiers, but that had recently been picked up by students and reinterpreted as an anti-war classic. WIth her guitar, she decided to add a few original riffs and beats to the song, making it her own. She only noticed the halfling enter the tavern as she was finished with the song, and was again met with the singular applause from the young man.
Union!- Errydha (Homebrew) Setting
Embers in the Dark - Errydha (Homebrew) Setting
Welcome to the Jungle- Far Realms
Citadel of the Unsleeping Sun - Erathis (Grim Hollow) Setting
Yevelda the Mutt- 3rd Level Half-Orc Battlemaster Fighter- Far Realms
Rehgys- 5th Level Satyr Bard of Eloquence- Far Realms
"Ah, you know. Here and there. I'm a mercenary, we go wherever the money is. I fought in a lot of battles for a few high-paying customers during the war."
Xenophon: Topaz Dragonborn Fighter (ixi's Dragon of Icespire Peak)
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Milo sits down at the bar straddling the seat sideways, giving him the ability to talk to the bartender and watch the entertainment. “Sure I could go for a meal and a drink. Any chance you know of a place that’s got some space available for a day or two? I’d hate to ask you about your competition, but seeing how you’re full...” Milo puts whatever the cost for the meal plus 2 gold down on the counter.
Corti sighed to herself as she finished the song, her curiosity beginning to get the better of her. I may as well go talk to that man, she thought, I should save a ballad or two for later tonight, anyhow. After receiving a silent nod of permission from the barkeep, she hopped off the stage, taking her guitar with her, and made a beeline for the young, robed man's table. She took notice of the halfling, and hoped that more patrons will follow after him. As she approached the man's table, she waved. "Hello, sir! Had an alright day?"
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Corti- Warforged bard (Union!)
Hadar Jaffe- Half-elf Knowledge Domain Cleric (Nemo's Citadel of the Unsleeping Sun)
Sparks squints at Brandt’s answer, replying in a neutral tone, like a poker player making a bet:
”So, you fought for multiple sides then?” and with a nod towards the rifle on Brandt’s back added “Have you seen the devastation that these things can wreak?”
————————
The bartender, irritated at the question, barks the order for a pie and ale to a cook in the back room, before turning back to Milo. At the sight of the considerable tip, he gives the halfling the most servile smile that he can muster and whistles: “Well, if you’re payin’ this well sir, I’m sure I could convince a customer to seek lodgings elsewhere. Pretty sure that canner over there dun’t even need ta sleep...”
————————
The man was half-elven, Corti now saw. Probably didn’t like that fact about himself though, judging by the locks of hair placed to cover his pointed ears. His clothes were simple, but well made and clean, apart from the right sleeve, which had a half-washed out ink blot just below the wrist which stained the otherwise white shirt of the student. The man, looking her up and down, answered in a cryptic tone: “The days are long and the nights are cold. But a good song can lift spirits and change hearts.”
Union!- Errydha (Homebrew) Setting
Embers in the Dark - Errydha (Homebrew) Setting
Welcome to the Jungle- Far Realms
Citadel of the Unsleeping Sun - Erathis (Grim Hollow) Setting
Yevelda the Mutt- 3rd Level Half-Orc Battlemaster Fighter- Far Realms
Rehgys- 5th Level Satyr Bard of Eloquence- Far Realms
"Of course I know how dangerous these things are. I once shot off a man's head from 400 feet away using this. I don't need anyone to lecture me about the destructive capabilities of my weapons. Now, what do you need me to do for you?"
Xenophon: Topaz Dragonborn Fighter (ixi's Dragon of Icespire Peak)
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“Oh yes, just fine.” Noticing the nod between bartender and performer “Hopefully the patrons are treating you well with songs as good as that. It would be a shame to see that talent go unappreciated.” Spinning in his seat to be fully facing the warforged. “Tell me, is there something I can get you; food, drink?”
« Mr Brandt, I feel you are missing the significance of your position here. Corphyra is in a fragile place now, and unless wefind a way to forge a new unity, the ceasefire won’t last.
Mercenaries like yourself know soldiers from all sides of the war. Who better to negotiate between them? Plus, I could always use a trained gunner in my service, Mr Borrick is a somewhat ... cruder... tool.
Tomorrow I will unveil two new inventions to the Corphyrean Council. Together, they will bring the nations of Corphyra together in commerce, peace and harmony.
The first I call they Railcoach, a stage coach propelled not by the power of a draft animal, but by the power of fire itself. On iron roads, it will enable transport and travel over the entire continent in unmatched speeds.
The second is the Telescribe, a machine by which I can send messages through wires across vast distances without the need of a caster. Information could be verified in an instant and rumours would no longer dominate Corphyrean politics.
Together, I will propose a project to link all of Corphyrea by building a metal artery across the entire continent. I will get the votes from the Confederation, but I will need people who can open doors that are closed to me on the way. And with what you’ve seen, who better to advocate for the use of technology to finally advance the cause for peace? What do you say Mr Brandt, can I count on your services to build this iron road? »
As he was speaking his eyes lit up with a passionate fire of a creator seeing the potential of his inventions carried forward across the land and beyond. His outstrechted hand is trembling with excitement.
————————
The half-elven male turns around surprised at the halfling that had joined their group unannounced and now sat in the middle of the group of students. Taken aback, he didn’t really know what to say.
»Pardon me sir, but I don’t have the pleasure of having made your acquaintance, my name is Carlo Merrix. «, he stammered out, hand outstretched to the Halfling, but eyes fixed on the Warforged, whom he had intended to speak with.
Union!- Errydha (Homebrew) Setting
Embers in the Dark - Errydha (Homebrew) Setting
Welcome to the Jungle- Far Realms
Citadel of the Unsleeping Sun - Erathis (Grim Hollow) Setting
Yevelda the Mutt- 3rd Level Half-Orc Battlemaster Fighter- Far Realms
Rehgys- 5th Level Satyr Bard of Eloquence- Far Realms
"It's not the job that I was expecting to do when I got called in, but sure, I'll do it." Brandt wasn't exactly excited about his new job, but he didn't really have anything else to do with his life right now, so he took it up. I hope that the pay is good, at least.
Xenophon: Topaz Dragonborn Fighter (ixi's Dragon of Icespire Peak)
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Tarian turned the paper over and over, looking for some hidden message she knew she would never find. Finally she folded the paper back up and tucked it into her vest pocket.
Seven, hmm? she thought. I’ve got some time to kill. She stared out the open window, down to the sodden streets below. While the view was nice on occasion, the top floor wasn’t where the best business was conducted. The top floor, drafty, wet, and cold, was where people who weren’t needed paid the front desk to be stored. If this doesn’t pan out, forget moving the office down to a better floor, I might not even be able to stay in a proper living space.
She grabbed her room key and went to the door, pushing past the stray cat that had been coming through the window for a place to sleep the last few days. “You’re on your own today, cat.”
Her own words resonated within her mind. You’re on your own today. Tarian stopped, turned back around, and took the two paces over to her makeshift armor rack in the one corner of the room that always stayed dry. If I’m going to have an evening out, I’d better get dressed for the occasion.
Gambeson, check. Belts properly fastened. Chain mail, check. Fitted, adjusted, no damage that would affect performance. Waterproof cloak, check. Can’t have rusty armor. Shield, arming sword, check and check. Crossbow string is tight, plenty of bolts.
Alright. Go time.
Tarian left her room, locked the door, and headed down the three flights of stairs to the bottom floor.
“Looks like someone’s headed to a fancy dinner party.” A stout-looking woman leaned over the counter at the entrance. Tarian suspected the building owner may have had some dwarf blood in her some generations back.
“Sure, Elise. A nice date with the White Maid.”
Elise narrowed her eyes, quirked a brow, and turned sidelong to eye Tarian for a moment, then the proprietress quickly got back to chiseling the dovetail joint she had been working on before Tarian came downstairs. “Just be careful. If you’re not back in a few days I’m selling your stuff to pay for your room.”
“Gotcha.” Tarian made a brief salute as she strode past Elise. “Say hi to Dannar for me, and let him know my room still has that leak.”
Tarian wasn’t going to march into the White Maid unprepared. It took a while, but she tracked down an orc she was acquainted with at one of the rougher bars in the Docklands.
“Look, Grumm,” Tarian growled in orcish, “all I need you to do is just be there, and maybe help me out if it looks like I’m in trouble. Keep an eye on me.”
“Dun wanna.”
“You love the White Maid.”
“Not listening.”
“No orc woman’s gonna bare her tusks at you if you aren’t gonna throw a punch when someone wants you to. Look, I’ll even keep quiet about the dreamroot incident, alright? Just watch, maybe hit some people.”
(PERSUASION ROLL)5
Grumm gave a noncommittal grunt and his usual inscrutable scowl.
“I’m going to take that as a yes. See you around seven.” Tarian stepped away, hoping she had convinced the orc to act as her backup. I guess I’ll find out around seven.
The White Maid was everything Tarian’s parents said was exactly the wrong place to be. Also not a place she preferred to go, even for a case. The local dockworkers might know her face, but any sailors from ships not from Duskrock have the tendency to mistake any female as one of the White Maid’s ladies. She had even seen a sailor drunkenly propositioning a lost warforged with a slight build in the street in front of the building once.
But the note said “near,” and not “in,” so at least today Tarian wouldn’t have to go inside. She was early, but she wanted to check out the situation, perhaps get an eye on her contact, or one of the “they” that “know,” or hopefully spot Grumm there to back her up.
(PERCEPTION ROLL)7
(INSIGHT ROLL)22
"On the other side of the screen, it all looks so easy." --Kevin Flynn, Tron (1982)
Out of context, also applicable to Dungeons & Dragons.
Now reading his social faux pas, not realizing he jumped into an intended private conversation conversation. “My apologies, my name is Milo, as another who enjoys the study of music and art, I simply wanted to talk to the performer. But I will let you two converse, it appears the tavern keep and I have some business after all.” Looking to the warforged who just played. “Maybe we will get a chance to converse a bit later?”
Making his way back to the barkeep “Only if it’s not too much trouble... I will require fresh linens of course.” As he waits for his meal.
Tarian looked out into the crooked alleyways, no sight of Grumm. Perfect. She waited as the clocks around the docks struck seven, she waited until they struck a quarter past. Just as she was heading back into the alley that would lead her back home, a figure rushed at her from a shadowy niche, pulling her into the shadows. She drew her knife in a split second, putting it to the throat of her assailant.
Her eyes widened in shock. Though gaunt and frail, with wild tufts of matted grey hair and an unruly stubble, she still recognised the man before her. His was one of five faces she’d never forget. He was sergeant Marcellus Riley, who had brought the mortally wounded officer to her mother all those years ago. None of the pride and strength of that man remained however. The man before her was broken, his eyes opened wide in sheer terror, and darting about in paranoia. At the sight of her recognition, he squeaked firth a whisper, a cruel shadow of the once booming voice of this man.
« I hoped you’d recognise me. You need to help me, please. They got several of us already. Hector has left the city, trying to get away. They’re going to get me too, if you don’t help me. Please, I’m begging you, I’ll die without your help. »
Union!- Errydha (Homebrew) Setting
Embers in the Dark - Errydha (Homebrew) Setting
Welcome to the Jungle- Far Realms
Citadel of the Unsleeping Sun - Erathis (Grim Hollow) Setting
Yevelda the Mutt- 3rd Level Half-Orc Battlemaster Fighter- Far Realms
Rehgys- 5th Level Satyr Bard of Eloquence- Far Realms
« Great, I’m glad to have you on board. » Sparks gleamed at Brandt’s words. « Now then, I’m sorry, but I need to make some last prepartions for tomorrow. Before leaving, Borrick will pay you for your first week. You will find the pay adequate, I’m sure. Be in front of the Confederation building tomorrow at noon, and you’ll see the railcoach with your own eyes. »
Heading outside, the vile butcher handed Brandt a small pouch of coins. A quick look and heft of the purse tells him that Sparks had set his weekly wage around fifty gold pieces.
Union!- Errydha (Homebrew) Setting
Embers in the Dark - Errydha (Homebrew) Setting
Welcome to the Jungle- Far Realms
Citadel of the Unsleeping Sun - Erathis (Grim Hollow) Setting
Yevelda the Mutt- 3rd Level Half-Orc Battlemaster Fighter- Far Realms
Rehgys- 5th Level Satyr Bard of Eloquence- Far Realms