“Missy, you fail to understand... I want “John” to know exactly that I was behind this. I want him to know that his presence in this city is why his lady got hurt. And I don’t care if she loses her life, as long as the message gets through his skull. Now, if you want to administer aid to her to see that I’m not just lying through my teeth, you’re welcome to do so, but it’s your enpliyer’s name that’ll get you out of here, nothing else. While my resources are ample, I don’t know why you’re here. I know that your halfling friend is working with Mr Sparks, whom he so rudely alluded to before. But you... I can’t place your employer, and that irks me. So, tell me who you work for and I might let you go, with your two protégés in tow.”
————————
“Haha, Brandt, I like your no-nonesense attitude. But maybe be a bit more diplomatic when you speak to a Cannith. They are a relatively recent addition to the city’s upper class, something they hate to be reminded of. Threats are more than likely going to have them dig in their heels and refuse out of stubbornness. But making them understand the opportunity for mutual profit, and the immortal status their family would get by joining our project that might well be a very good approach. That and flattery of course. Speak about the innovations their house have brought the world, the importance they carry for Duskrock, you know yadda yadda. It’s crucial they come on board, with them we can start to produce results which will quickly convince the remaining hesitants.”
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
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
Milo kicks the bag of gold over to Tarian. “Come on, we’e more work to do, let’s not let your old employer get in the way of our business.” Turning to The greasy man “I apologize if I was rude earlier. I figured a man of your station wouldn’t have that thin of skin. We’ll deliver the message loud and clear. The only thing this John will be able to see is the metal grin as he lies his head down at night. So tell me, how much would it take to get the girl right now?” Milo knows he should stop but can’t help himself “I mean is that for fashion or necessity?” As he raises an eyebrow and makes a full open handed gesture swirling about his own mouth.
"Got it." Brandt heads back to his room, since it's not like the Canniths will be willing to speak to him at such an hour. "So, Colette. Sparks agreed to let you come along and work, but the company isn't able to pay you. But he says that his workers will be appreciative enough of your services to make you a rich woman."
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Xenophon: Topaz Dragonborn Fighter (ixi's Dragon of Icespire Peak)
“Oh, you’re a pretty funny guy for a halfling... And I’m pretty sure he got the message, in fact I’ll bet a pretty penny the first thing he’s gonna do once he’s reunited with his beloved is making a run for it to the next city, or maybe onto the railroad construction, just anything to get away from here.
And I said it before, all I want from the two of you is the name of her employer, after that you’ll walk away. And the teeth? Do you really wanna know why I have them?”, the boss smiles wickedly at this, the torchlight glinting of the silver and gold caps on a good third of his teeth.
————————
Colette gives Brandt a pittying smile: “I mean, I knew you were straightforward, but it looks like you might be a bit simple too. Of course he wasn’t gonna pay me. But you’ll see, we’ll get him to appreciate my worth in time.” She gave him a big kiss square on the lips. “It’s the first time I have a plan with my life that looks beyond tomorrow, and all thanks to my knight in shining armour. Well, mostly shining anyway.” She adds the last part with a wink.
”So, when are we leaving? I’d like your advice tomorrow, I wanna get some provisions for the journey east, and particularly with weapons I’m a bit lost. Could you possibly join me for a trip to the markets?”
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
"Sure, I can help you go find supplies at the market tomorrow. We'll be leaving soon, Sparks just needs me to take care of some business with the Canniths first."
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Xenophon: Topaz Dragonborn Fighter (ixi's Dragon of Icespire Peak)
Colette gave Brandt an encouraging smile at that. “Look at you, being sent on important errands for your boss. Do you know any Canniths? And for the market tomorrow, any suggestions what type of weapon I should buy?”
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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
"I know of the Canniths, but I don't know any. The war was good for them. When the Warforged units started to get deployed, the Canniths perfected the creation of them to a science. And then the cash flowed in. But tomorrow, you should buy a rapier like the one I have and maybe a bow or a crossbow so that you can hit things at long range. How good of a shot are you?"
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Xenophon: Topaz Dragonborn Fighter (ixi's Dragon of Icespire Peak)
Tarian’s jaw clenched. “You want a name? I could give you a thousand names. It doesn’t mean that any of them would be the right one, or that I was even given their real name to begin with. People lie to me all the time, Mister Blade. I told you, I don’t ask questions of my employers, and I don’t give out their information. What I do know is that almost every time I get a job, it’s either through an intermediary, someone that lies to protect their identity, or an intermediary who’s lying to protect their identity. I don’t bother checking into who they are anymore. I just assume that any name I’m given is an alias, and every employer a liar.”
Tarian stooped to pick up the bag of coins Milo kicked to her. Upon standing, she waved a hand vaguely at the Suits members behind her. “But if I could give your crew’s half-baked ‘investigator’ some advice, I’d say start by looking into whoever would benefit the most from the girl’s return. Got any enemies, Mister Blade?”
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"On the other side of the screen, it all looks so easy." --Kevin Flynn, Tron (1982)
Out of context, also applicable to Dungeons & Dragons.
“Ah, yes. What a wonderful query!” Milo turns to the group pointed out by Tarian “Let’s work this backwards, who do you think stands to benefit most getting this lass back and disrupting our fearless leader’s objectives? Who has the time to hire this fine lass’ services? Who has the resources to go against him?” Turning back to The grease man. “This is going to be a great teaching moment for your men.”
"I have no time for this. I'm sure you must have an inkling as to who gave you this contract, and I want their name. I'm a patient man, but you're starting to strain that patience, and well, once worn out, I might have to get the name from you by other means. While that would undoubtedly give me some pleasure, I'm trying to give you another chance to resolve this matter peacefully. The name of your employer, now!" The gangster seemed increasingly impatient and annoyed at the halfling and the stubborn human in front of him.
--------------------------------
Colette gave Brandt a shy smile: "I.. don't really know. I've not had much occasion to shoot a weapon yet. But you've been a great teacher so far, and I hope you'll teach me more?"
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
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
Milo sighs. “You know I’ve had enough of this myself, I can’t wait all night listening to you too bicker. Tarian, is your honor really that important to you? You have a new, much more high paying boss now. So is it all that important that you keep Clarence’s name out of it? The longer I’m kept in here, the more gold is kept out of your pocket!” As he paces back and forth slapping her on the leg at on point in time, fuming with anger. Apparently letting his cool demeanor slip.
The boss leaned back in his chair, triumphantly: "Clarence. Well, I'll see what I can dig up on this Clarence character. You should grow more patient halfling, or less cocky. Anyway, I am a gentleman, and a man of my word" turning to one of his lieutenants behind Tarian and Milo, "bring them to the prisoner. Time to let these people go and put your lazy asses back to work."
With that, the six goons started ushering Tarian and Milo out of the room and down the stairs to the bottom floor. As it was getting late, far fewer of the gang were still around, most either out in the streets or sleeping in the hammocks. Reaching the bar on the bottom floor, the gang's bar keep turned one of the taps at the nod of the head by one of the lieutenants, and with that, a secret passageway through a large cask of ale standing at the wall opened up. Being ushered through the narrow and dusty passage, Milo and Tarian got a sense of the many smuggler tunnels that must exist between and below the buildings and warehouses in the Docklands. No wonder it had become an object of such desire for several of the more ruthless gangs in town. After a half hour or so of walking through this maze of subterranean tunnels, they reached a small staircase at the end of the tunnel, illuminated by a single torch. Heading up the stairs, they reached a small cellar, seemingly from an inn or a general store, judging by the many meats that were laid out on shelves around them. In one of the corners, they saw two gang members guarding a cage, far too small for an adult elf woman, who had attempted to fall asleep with her knees tucked to the chin, her neatly bandaged left hand held closely to her chest.
"Clark, Kent, the prisoner's free! Open up and make sure to take these two and the girl outside!", barked one of the lieutenants to the two guards, who hastily opened the cage and shook the prisoner awake. Blinking, Sylvia seemed like she had no idea of where she was or what was going on, before being thrust into the hands Tarian, and being ushered out the door and through the main establishment, an inn, outside. Milo, taking a note of the establishment's name, couldn't help but chuckle about the hidden meaning behind the inn and it's connection to the Suits. "The Helping Hand", showing five aces.
Once outside, the two gang members quickly shut the doors and locked them from inside, leaving Tarian, Milo, and a surprised Sylvia in the middle of the Eastern Fields Ward, with dawn slowly cresting the oval racing track visible about a mile off in the distance.
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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
“You got your girl, take her to safety. Consider the ten gold a down payment for your services. I’ll be expecting a discount since I got you out alive, without bloodshed AND did your job for you by getting the girl out. Meet me tomorrow at the inn, we’ve got work to do.” At this Milo pats the girl in the hand, “you’re a very strong girl, most people couldn’t live through that. He is such a hideous sort of fellow, but remember his power is only through fear. Fear is nothing to us courageous folk.” And will give her inspiration. Turning his attention back to Tarian. “All in all, I look forward to working together.” As he gives out his last inspiration to her.
Milo takes a quick stroll back to the inn he’s staying at taking note of all the shop names along the way. Walking into the golden gear he promptly goes to his room to retire for the night. (It is night, right?)
"Sure, we can do that tomorrow. But somewhere else. Your bosses won't like it if I use their furniture for target practice." And as Brandt speaks, he pokes Colette's stomach a few times.
After a late morning, having breakfast sent to his room. Milo begins writing some letters.
Matthew,
Some business plans have flowered here in Dusk Rock. I have agreed to send as much food as we sustainably can to help feed workers, as they begin a new project. Feeding some 8,000 men and their families. Continue with the growth plan and expand as possible to ensure we can meet the needs the best we can. We will receive profits up front each quarter for the deliveries.
As for our other businesses lax there is some competition in Dusk Rock; but we already knew that. I will be staying to ensure our prosperity. This involves buying housing and some warehouse to store our supplies and trade goods. I am in need of two things. 1. Something to better arm or protect myself: a wand or something for protection will do nicely. 2. On the next shipment in, cut my stipend in half and spend the money on finding some good men and women to help secure our foothold in Dusk Rock. Mercenaries that won’t mind getting their hands dirty, but also won’t mind working out food deliveries. Thank you for your hard work, I know it’s not easy but you’re filling my shoes nicely back at home.
With a brother’s love,
Milo
Letter number 2:
Tarian,
I hope you found peace in the resolution last night. I will not need your protection services until this evening. But during the day I need you to secure a storehouse for my food deliveries and other businesses. Something that can house myself as I don’t intend on staying in this Inn. You’re welcome to stay there too. Within a fortnight I will be having my own men arrive. At that time, you’re welcome to stay aboard and be their commanding officer, or take your leave. I thank you for what you’ve done already. There is a pouch of 200 gold in my room, take it to secure the store house or at least a down payment. I trust your judgement.
Milo.
Milo walks down and give both sealed letters to the tavern keep. “This one is to be mailed, this one is for that woman I left with last night. The serious one that didn’t smile. Milo gives him a gold and walks out to go to his meeting.”
Arcius is still asleep in his bed, when finally his alarm/music box, goes off, playing a annoyingly loud song. Groaning like a zombie, Arc eventually musters the strength to smack down on his alarm and get out of bed. Taking a brief moment to stretch out his body, he moves to bathe and redress himself. He opens the door to his study and picks up the platter of food that was left for him, like clockwork. Once he had done all his mortal necessities, Arc takes a breath and thinks to what he has to get done.
"To start with, there was the matter with Mrs. Krull, it was unknown if Tarian continued to look into the matter," He starts thinking out loud to himself, a habit he picked up from his Uncle, "so for now, it'd be safe to work of the assumption that she hasn't. In which case, there's still the Warforged unit. If they're really tied to the strike, I may be able to learn some more information about all of my current problems....plus they would be a good subject to study and question." Taking a moment to pause, Arc glances at his work table at his weapons and tools, "…..no. I'm not looking to start trouble, though the tools might be useful." With that, he straps his tools under his coat and prepares to leave.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Tarian dragged Sylvia through the streets of Duskrock in the early morning hours. She hailed a carriage whenever she saw one and had it take them through the city to random places. They would stay in the carriage until Tarian was startled awake by the sudden jostling of a pothole, when she would ask the cart to stop, and she would drag Sylvia through the streets again until they found another available carriage and they repeated the process again.
Dexterity (Stealth): 20 (21) as they try to lose any tail.
Wisdom (Perception): 19 (6) as Tarian tries to keep an eye out for followers.
Wisdom (Insight): 23 (11) as she tries to read any carriage driver to see if they are trustworthy.
Rolls in parentheses are for if advantage/disadvantage would apply.
Tarian quieted Sylvia’s protests sharply. “We can’t guarantee we weren’t followed out of there. Going straight home might get you into worse trouble than you already are.”
As they made their way closer to Northward, in their final carriage for the morning, Tarian pulled the long leather box from her left hip and re-bandaged Sylvia’s hand.
As she fixed the bandage, Tarian quietly said, “I saw your paintings. They were beautiful. I’m… sorry I can’t do anything more about your hand.”
Bandaging finished and carriage at the edge of Northward, Tarian asked the driver to stop. Tarian helped Sylvia out of the carriage and sent the driver on his way. They didn’t move until the driver was well out of sight. They moved quickly, and when the occasion presented itself, she asked the occasional rickshaw runner about the area, taking care to not ask anyone while still within sight of anyone she had already asked.
Wisdom (Insight): 13 to see if Tarian thinks they’re trustworthy. She won't ask anyone she thinks looks questionable.
The question was worded the same each time she asked: “I think I may be on the wrong street. Can you tell me who lives down this way?” Getting the directions this way was difficult, but gradually they made their way to the Cannith Estate. Tarian sought out a service entrance (if available) and announced herself.
“I’m Tarian, with an urgent delivery for a Mister Arc Cannith.”
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"On the other side of the screen, it all looks so easy." --Kevin Flynn, Tron (1982)
Out of context, also applicable to Dungeons & Dragons.
Before Arc gets to leave, Lucius approaches him. “Master, there’s a Lady outside, she calls herself Tarian and asked for you specifically.”
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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
Thia would startle herself awake with a snoring snort, lifting her head suddenly from the desk. Asleep at the desk again eh, Munchkin? She could hear her fathers voice in her head as she sat up, peeling the last page of last nights notes off her cheek. “It’s bad for the back...” she’d finish the reminder to herself out loud, groaning as she outstretched every limb as far as she could before slumping back into an exaggerated slouch. Thia would rub her face, then her eyes before blinking around the room. As the fog in her mind started to clear, she remembered she wasn’t in her dorm. She’d snap to an upright position, suddenly alert and begin to do an audit of her surroundings.
“Research and notes most importantly...” Thia would begin gathering her scattered documents strewn across the desk, floor, and even on the bed. She’d line them up neatly so she could tuck them away safely and securely in her bag. “Tools of the trade...” she’d carefully and methodically put away her calligraphy supplies in their designated kit before putting it in its respective pouch. She’d then head to the bathroom to take a quick look at herself. She’d splash some water on her face for a quick wash, rub some more sleep out of her eyes and finger comb the knots out of her hair. Thia would straighten up her clothes before shrugging to herself, “Presentable...” she’d huff a piece of her bangs away from her eye before turning to leave the bathroom.
Thia would grab her long hooded jacket off the chair, slide one arm in then the other, before slinging her messenger bag across her shoulder to rest snugly at her hip. ”Okay, that’s everything?” She’d gesture her arms out at her sides, pointing around as she checked off a mental check list, making sure she had everything she arrived with. Thia would pull her hood up over her head and out she’d go.
Corti comes out of her resting state suddenly. She glances around the room, stretching and working out her wooden joints as she does. Checking her bag, she adjusts the straps on her instrument and quickly organizing her satchel. Lastly, she tunes her lute and plays a quick song to warm up before heading out for the day.
I should check by the factory from yesterday, see if I can help with anything. Corti takes in the morning breeze before heading in the direction of the factory where she met Bellows the previous morning. She readies her lute as she approaches, having learned from yesterday's original confusion.
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I do both party and individual character commissions. PM me for info.
Corti- Warforged bard (Union!)
Hadar Jaffe- Half-elf Knowledge Domain Cleric (Nemo's Citadel of the Unsleeping Sun)
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“Missy, you fail to understand... I want “John” to know exactly that I was behind this. I want him to know that his presence in this city is why his lady got hurt. And I don’t care if she loses her life, as long as the message gets through his skull. Now, if you want to administer aid to her to see that I’m not just lying through my teeth, you’re welcome to do so, but it’s your enpliyer’s name that’ll get you out of here, nothing else. While my resources are ample, I don’t know why you’re here. I know that your halfling friend is working with Mr Sparks, whom he so rudely alluded to before. But you... I can’t place your employer, and that irks me. So, tell me who you work for and I might let you go, with your two protégés in tow.”
————————
“Haha, Brandt, I like your no-nonesense attitude. But maybe be a bit more diplomatic when you speak to a Cannith. They are a relatively recent addition to the city’s upper class, something they hate to be reminded of. Threats are more than likely going to have them dig in their heels and refuse out of stubbornness. But making them understand the opportunity for mutual profit, and the immortal status their family would get by joining our project that might well be a very good approach. That and flattery of course. Speak about the innovations their house have brought the world, the importance they carry for Duskrock, you know yadda yadda. It’s crucial they come on board, with them we can start to produce results which will quickly convince the remaining hesitants.”
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
Milo kicks the bag of gold over to Tarian. “Come on, we’e more work to do, let’s not let your old employer get in the way of our business.” Turning to The greasy man “I apologize if I was rude earlier. I figured a man of your station wouldn’t have that thin of skin. We’ll deliver the message loud and clear. The only thing this John will be able to see is the metal grin as he lies his head down at night. So tell me, how much would it take to get the girl right now?” Milo knows he should stop but can’t help himself “I mean is that for fashion or necessity?” As he raises an eyebrow and makes a full open handed gesture swirling about his own mouth.
"Got it." Brandt heads back to his room, since it's not like the Canniths will be willing to speak to him at such an hour. "So, Colette. Sparks agreed to let you come along and work, but the company isn't able to pay you. But he says that his workers will be appreciative enough of your services to make you a rich woman."
Xenophon: Topaz Dragonborn Fighter (ixi's Dragon of Icespire Peak)
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“Oh, you’re a pretty funny guy for a halfling... And I’m pretty sure he got the message, in fact I’ll bet a pretty penny the first thing he’s gonna do once he’s reunited with his beloved is making a run for it to the next city, or maybe onto the railroad construction, just anything to get away from here.
And I said it before, all I want from the two of you is the name of her employer, after that you’ll walk away. And the teeth? Do you really wanna know why I have them?”, the boss smiles wickedly at this, the torchlight glinting of the silver and gold caps on a good third of his teeth.
————————
Colette gives Brandt a pittying smile: “I mean, I knew you were straightforward, but it looks like you might be a bit simple too. Of course he wasn’t gonna pay me. But you’ll see, we’ll get him to appreciate my worth in time.” She gave him a big kiss square on the lips. “It’s the first time I have a plan with my life that looks beyond tomorrow, and all thanks to my knight in shining armour. Well, mostly shining anyway.” She adds the last part with a wink.
”So, when are we leaving? I’d like your advice tomorrow, I wanna get some provisions for the journey east, and particularly with weapons I’m a bit lost. Could you possibly join me for a trip to the markets?”
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
"Sure, I can help you go find supplies at the market tomorrow. We'll be leaving soon, Sparks just needs me to take care of some business with the Canniths first."
Xenophon: Topaz Dragonborn Fighter (ixi's Dragon of Icespire Peak)
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Colette gave Brandt an encouraging smile at that. “Look at you, being sent on important errands for your boss. Do you know any Canniths? And for the market tomorrow, any suggestions what type of weapon I should buy?”
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
"I know of the Canniths, but I don't know any. The war was good for them. When the Warforged units started to get deployed, the Canniths perfected the creation of them to a science. And then the cash flowed in. But tomorrow, you should buy a rapier like the one I have and maybe a bow or a crossbow so that you can hit things at long range. How good of a shot are you?"
Xenophon: Topaz Dragonborn Fighter (ixi's Dragon of Icespire Peak)
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Tarian’s jaw clenched. “You want a name? I could give you a thousand names. It doesn’t mean that any of them would be the right one, or that I was even given their real name to begin with. People lie to me all the time, Mister Blade. I told you, I don’t ask questions of my employers, and I don’t give out their information. What I do know is that almost every time I get a job, it’s either through an intermediary, someone that lies to protect their identity, or an intermediary who’s lying to protect their identity. I don’t bother checking into who they are anymore. I just assume that any name I’m given is an alias, and every employer a liar.”
Tarian stooped to pick up the bag of coins Milo kicked to her. Upon standing, she waved a hand vaguely at the Suits members behind her. “But if I could give your crew’s half-baked ‘investigator’ some advice, I’d say start by looking into whoever would benefit the most from the girl’s return. Got any enemies, Mister Blade?”
"On the other side of the screen, it all looks so easy." --Kevin Flynn, Tron (1982)
Out of context, also applicable to Dungeons & Dragons.
“Ah, yes. What a wonderful query!” Milo turns to the group pointed out by Tarian “Let’s work this backwards, who do you think stands to benefit most getting this lass back and disrupting our fearless leader’s objectives? Who has the time to hire this fine lass’ services? Who has the resources to go against him?” Turning back to The grease man. “This is going to be a great teaching moment for your men.”
"I have no time for this. I'm sure you must have an inkling as to who gave you this contract, and I want their name. I'm a patient man, but you're starting to strain that patience, and well, once worn out, I might have to get the name from you by other means. While that would undoubtedly give me some pleasure, I'm trying to give you another chance to resolve this matter peacefully. The name of your employer, now!" The gangster seemed increasingly impatient and annoyed at the halfling and the stubborn human in front of him.
--------------------------------
Colette gave Brandt a shy smile: "I.. don't really know. I've not had much occasion to shoot a weapon yet. But you've been a great teacher so far, and I hope you'll teach me more?"
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
Milo sighs. “You know I’ve had enough of this myself, I can’t wait all night listening to you too bicker. Tarian, is your honor really that important to you? You have a new, much more high paying boss now. So is it all that important that you keep Clarence’s name out of it? The longer I’m kept in here, the more gold is kept out of your pocket!” As he paces back and forth slapping her on the leg at on point in time, fuming with anger. Apparently letting his cool demeanor slip.
Deception: 15 , if dis/advantage 16
The boss leaned back in his chair, triumphantly: "Clarence. Well, I'll see what I can dig up on this Clarence character. You should grow more patient halfling, or less cocky. Anyway, I am a gentleman, and a man of my word" turning to one of his lieutenants behind Tarian and Milo, "bring them to the prisoner. Time to let these people go and put your lazy asses back to work."
With that, the six goons started ushering Tarian and Milo out of the room and down the stairs to the bottom floor. As it was getting late, far fewer of the gang were still around, most either out in the streets or sleeping in the hammocks. Reaching the bar on the bottom floor, the gang's bar keep turned one of the taps at the nod of the head by one of the lieutenants, and with that, a secret passageway through a large cask of ale standing at the wall opened up. Being ushered through the narrow and dusty passage, Milo and Tarian got a sense of the many smuggler tunnels that must exist between and below the buildings and warehouses in the Docklands. No wonder it had become an object of such desire for several of the more ruthless gangs in town. After a half hour or so of walking through this maze of subterranean tunnels, they reached a small staircase at the end of the tunnel, illuminated by a single torch. Heading up the stairs, they reached a small cellar, seemingly from an inn or a general store, judging by the many meats that were laid out on shelves around them. In one of the corners, they saw two gang members guarding a cage, far too small for an adult elf woman, who had attempted to fall asleep with her knees tucked to the chin, her neatly bandaged left hand held closely to her chest.
"Clark, Kent, the prisoner's free! Open up and make sure to take these two and the girl outside!", barked one of the lieutenants to the two guards, who hastily opened the cage and shook the prisoner awake. Blinking, Sylvia seemed like she had no idea of where she was or what was going on, before being thrust into the hands Tarian, and being ushered out the door and through the main establishment, an inn, outside. Milo, taking a note of the establishment's name, couldn't help but chuckle about the hidden meaning behind the inn and it's connection to the Suits. "The Helping Hand", showing five aces.
Once outside, the two gang members quickly shut the doors and locked them from inside, leaving Tarian, Milo, and a surprised Sylvia in the middle of the Eastern Fields Ward, with dawn slowly cresting the oval racing track visible about a mile off in the distance.
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
“You got your girl, take her to safety. Consider the ten gold a down payment for your services. I’ll be expecting a discount since I got you out alive, without bloodshed AND did your job for you by getting the girl out. Meet me tomorrow at the inn, we’ve got work to do.” At this Milo pats the girl in the hand, “you’re a very strong girl, most people couldn’t live through that. He is such a hideous sort of fellow, but remember his power is only through fear. Fear is nothing to us courageous folk.” And will give her inspiration. Turning his attention back to Tarian. “All in all, I look forward to working together.” As he gives out his last inspiration to her.
Milo takes a quick stroll back to the inn he’s staying at taking note of all the shop names along the way. Walking into the golden gear he promptly goes to his room to retire for the night. (It is night, right?)
"Sure, we can do that tomorrow. But somewhere else. Your bosses won't like it if I use their furniture for target practice." And as Brandt speaks, he pokes Colette's stomach a few times.
Xenophon: Topaz Dragonborn Fighter (ixi's Dragon of Icespire Peak)
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After a late morning, having breakfast sent to his room. Milo begins writing some letters.
Matthew,
Some business plans have flowered here in Dusk Rock. I have agreed to send as much food as we sustainably can to help feed workers, as they begin a new project. Feeding some 8,000 men and their families. Continue with the growth plan and expand as possible to ensure we can meet the needs the best we can. We will receive profits up front each quarter for the deliveries.
As for our other businesses lax there is some competition in Dusk Rock; but we already knew that. I will be staying to ensure our prosperity. This involves buying housing and some warehouse to store our supplies and trade goods. I am in need of two things. 1. Something to better arm or protect myself: a wand or something for protection will do nicely. 2. On the next shipment in, cut my stipend in half and spend the money on finding some good men and women to help secure our foothold in Dusk Rock. Mercenaries that won’t mind getting their hands dirty, but also won’t mind working out food deliveries. Thank you for your hard work, I know it’s not easy but you’re filling my shoes nicely back at home.
With a brother’s love,
Milo
Letter number 2:
Tarian,
I hope you found peace in the resolution last night. I will not need your protection services until this evening. But during the day I need you to secure a storehouse for my food deliveries and other businesses. Something that can house myself as I don’t intend on staying in this Inn. You’re welcome to stay there too. Within a fortnight I will be having my own men arrive. At that time, you’re welcome to stay aboard and be their commanding officer, or take your leave. I thank you for what you’ve done already. There is a pouch of 200 gold in my room, take it to secure the store house or at least a down payment. I trust your judgement.
Milo.
Milo walks down and give both sealed letters to the tavern keep. “This one is to be mailed, this one is for that woman I left with last night. The serious one that didn’t smile. Milo gives him a gold and walks out to go to his meeting.”
Arcius is still asleep in his bed, when finally his alarm/music box, goes off, playing a annoyingly loud song. Groaning like a zombie, Arc eventually musters the strength to smack down on his alarm and get out of bed. Taking a brief moment to stretch out his body, he moves to bathe and redress himself. He opens the door to his study and picks up the platter of food that was left for him, like clockwork. Once he had done all his mortal necessities, Arc takes a breath and thinks to what he has to get done.
"To start with, there was the matter with Mrs. Krull, it was unknown if Tarian continued to look into the matter," He starts thinking out loud to himself, a habit he picked up from his Uncle, "so for now, it'd be safe to work of the assumption that she hasn't. In which case, there's still the Warforged unit. If they're really tied to the strike, I may be able to learn some more information about all of my current problems....plus they would be a good subject to study and question." Taking a moment to pause, Arc glances at his work table at his weapons and tools, "…..no. I'm not looking to start trouble, though the tools might be useful." With that, he straps his tools under his coat and prepares to leave.
Tarian dragged Sylvia through the streets of Duskrock in the early morning hours. She hailed a carriage whenever she saw one and had it take them through the city to random places. They would stay in the carriage until Tarian was startled awake by the sudden jostling of a pothole, when she would ask the cart to stop, and she would drag Sylvia through the streets again until they found another available carriage and they repeated the process again.
Dexterity (Stealth): 20 (21) as they try to lose any tail.
Wisdom (Perception): 19 (6) as Tarian tries to keep an eye out for followers.
Wisdom (Insight): 23 (11) as she tries to read any carriage driver to see if they are trustworthy.
Rolls in parentheses are for if advantage/disadvantage would apply.
Tarian quieted Sylvia’s protests sharply. “We can’t guarantee we weren’t followed out of there. Going straight home might get you into worse trouble than you already are.”
As they made their way closer to Northward, in their final carriage for the morning, Tarian pulled the long leather box from her left hip and re-bandaged Sylvia’s hand.
Wisdom (Medicine): 18
As she fixed the bandage, Tarian quietly said, “I saw your paintings. They were beautiful. I’m… sorry I can’t do anything more about your hand.”
Bandaging finished and carriage at the edge of Northward, Tarian asked the driver to stop. Tarian helped Sylvia out of the carriage and sent the driver on his way. They didn’t move until the driver was well out of sight. They moved quickly, and when the occasion presented itself, she asked the occasional rickshaw runner about the area, taking care to not ask anyone while still within sight of anyone she had already asked.
Wisdom (Insight): 13 to see if Tarian thinks they’re trustworthy. She won't ask anyone she thinks looks questionable.
The question was worded the same each time she asked: “I think I may be on the wrong street. Can you tell me who lives down this way?” Getting the directions this way was difficult, but gradually they made their way to the Cannith Estate. Tarian sought out a service entrance (if available) and announced herself.
“I’m Tarian, with an urgent delivery for a Mister Arc Cannith.”
"On the other side of the screen, it all looks so easy." --Kevin Flynn, Tron (1982)
Out of context, also applicable to Dungeons & Dragons.
Before Arc gets to leave, Lucius approaches him. “Master, there’s a Lady outside, she calls herself Tarian and asked for you specifically.”
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
Thia would startle herself awake with a snoring snort, lifting her head suddenly from the desk. Asleep at the desk again eh, Munchkin? She could hear her fathers voice in her head as she sat up, peeling the last page of last nights notes off her cheek. “It’s bad for the back...” she’d finish the reminder to herself out loud, groaning as she outstretched every limb as far as she could before slumping back into an exaggerated slouch. Thia would rub her face, then her eyes before blinking around the room. As the fog in her mind started to clear, she remembered she wasn’t in her dorm. She’d snap to an upright position, suddenly alert and begin to do an audit of her surroundings.
“Research and notes most importantly...” Thia would begin gathering her scattered documents strewn across the desk, floor, and even on the bed. She’d line them up neatly so she could tuck them away safely and securely in her bag. “Tools of the trade...” she’d carefully and methodically put away her calligraphy supplies in their designated kit before putting it in its respective pouch. She’d then head to the bathroom to take a quick look at herself. She’d splash some water on her face for a quick wash, rub some more sleep out of her eyes and finger comb the knots out of her hair. Thia would straighten up her clothes before shrugging to herself, “Presentable...” she’d huff a piece of her bangs away from her eye before turning to leave the bathroom.
Thia would grab her long hooded jacket off the chair, slide one arm in then the other, before slinging her messenger bag across her shoulder to rest snugly at her hip. ”Okay, that’s everything?” She’d gesture her arms out at her sides, pointing around as she checked off a mental check list, making sure she had everything she arrived with. Thia would pull her hood up over her head and out she’d go.
just an unstable unicorn.
Corti comes out of her resting state suddenly. She glances around the room, stretching and working out her wooden joints as she does. Checking her bag, she adjusts the straps on her instrument and quickly organizing her satchel. Lastly, she tunes her lute and plays a quick song to warm up before heading out for the day.
I should check by the factory from yesterday, see if I can help with anything. Corti takes in the morning breeze before heading in the direction of the factory where she met Bellows the previous morning. She readies her lute as she approaches, having learned from yesterday's original confusion.
I do both party and individual character commissions. PM me for info.
Corti- Warforged bard (Union!)
Hadar Jaffe- Half-elf Knowledge Domain Cleric (Nemo's Citadel of the Unsleeping Sun)