The woman tenses at Shautha's response, but still manages to nod and bow in apology. I-I'm sorry Ma'am... We don't get a lot of your k... Orcs, or Half-Orcs... And The Dessarim Valley is known for being attacked by them every so often... Ulric scans the room, and unlike some seedy tavern, or shady shop, no one here seems to be trying to hide very much. Among those in the lounge, a man, clearly a priest of Lathander though enjoying his meal, has a very troubled expression written on his face, as if something is weighing on him heavily. No one else stands particularly out, though Ulric does notice all the staff here seem particularly attentive. Regardless of his disposition, he could tell the staff were very dedicated to their jobs here.
Turning to Ulric when he speaks up, her smile brightens... slightly as his own visage gave her reason to pause for different reasons. However, when he asked, she would nod courteously as she put her hands together. Of course... In fact they've been seeking to show off something they found recently. They're quite proud of it. Right this way...
She said as she moved from the table itself, with a 'this way' hand motion walking to one side of the large ground floor of the establishment to a human man holding a book showing it off to an elvish woman who looks starstruck with the book itself. You see I was down by the river when.... was what was heard as the group (whoever joined Ulric and the owner there)
Ulf walked up to the bar and ordered an ale, intending to ask the same question. But hearing Ulrics question, and the response, he shrugs, nods at the others, slings his pack over his shoulder, picks up his ale and follow after Ulric.
If he does not hear Ulric's request, then when his ale is served, he says to the barkeep, "I am lookong for someone. They said he likes to drink here. Called Vallivoe. Ring any bells?"
Somewhat amused by the woman's reaction, Shautha just laughs it off. "That's normal!" She answers, before Ulric takes it from there.
Following the group, she gives the elvish woman a quick side glance, a soft growl escaping her lips, before focusing on the man. "Hello. We have some questions..." She says, her smile gone.
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Active Campaigns:
Raiketsu's Princes of the Apocalypse (DM: Raiketsu) - Shautha: Half-Orc, Level 3 Druid (Circle of Land: Mountain) ⟆ Monster Misfits Adventures (DM: ShadIn) - Vrakskan Onyxadyn: Dragonborn, Level 3 Barbarian (Path of the Ancestral Guardian) ⟆ Rime of the Frostmaiden (DM: Sarvaeth) - Rildayne Uln'hyrr: Drow Elf, Level 1 Warlock of the Archfey
Ulric adds after Shautha's comment, "Questions about the caravan that disappeared a while ago. We heard you had rumors about it." He stands fall behind the group, back straight, arms crossed behind him.
Back at the meeting with the discussion about provisions and supplies, Yrnila calmly states that her method of work requires very little equipment besides a map and basic survival equipment, which she already possesses. Seeing nothing better to do in the meanwhile, she accompanies the group towards the Swinging Sword.
Along the way, if it isn't too late, Yrnila would survey the shaken area. If anyone seems to have been injured in the minor earthquake, she will approach and offer minor medical care. As they are walking, her stern face regards the members of the party with an unmuted curiosity and judgement. She does not appear to be hostile, but she isn't hiding the fact that she is observing and making up her mind on what to think of the party's new members.
She enters alongside Shautha and the rest, polite expression tightening slightly at the hostility which was directed towards the Half-Orc. Most would only notice a calm disappointment in her eyes as she orders a tea from Kaylessa, but the true source to her displeasure in those words was far different.
(Taking liberties with Yrnila noticing the presence of the Priest of Lathander.)
Yrnila watches the three members of the party approach Endrith. Content to be filled in later, she will take a detour to seat herself near the priest. "Priest of the Morninglord," she greets, inclining her head in a makeshift seated bow. "I am Yrnila. I have wandered the country as a traveling medic, and I hold clinics devoted to your deity in my highest regards." Speaking with her usual clear voice and polite posture, she continues. "Please, tell me what troubles you, and tell me more about what is occurring," she asks in response to the mild tremor felt.
Ulf heads to the bar, requesting an ale. After some finagling on what 'specific' ale he wanted, and coin was passed (5 SP, which is 'half of 1 GP) he asks the Barkeeper about Vallivoe. Ah yes, he's... the man says, looking over to the table and seeing that there's already a small group there. He's right over here, though it seems he already has some business with others, or with the Owner, Miss Kaylessa. But he is over there where that group is gathered. I wish I could escort you myself but She will scold me if I leave my post! the man said with humor, hoping that Ulf would understand.
At the Vallivoe Table, the man looks up to the new folk with a bright smile, even maintaining it upon seeing Shautha, marking him as someone who likely has met with a variety of races before, though the elf woman's demeanor changes immediately when she see's Shautha's own look. Her hand instinctively goes to her pocket to touch something, though she manages to refrain from attacking if only because Kaylessa was there as her eyes dart between the two before staying on Shautha.
Vallivoe himself notes the slight tension and raises his hands to the maiden he was sharing the table with. Now now... Calm down... I'm sure they're here about my book, I asked Kaylessa to bring over anyone seeming interested in it. as the slight exchange happens between the Elf and Shautha. And you would be wrong. I have no information on this .. "Caravan" I did however discover this Dwarven Book floating down the river, there were several other supplies and chests floating when I happened upon them, but I was only deft enough to recover this.
It's quite fascinating really... It tells of some of the history of the Dessarim Valley. Unfortunately most of the pages were damaged beyond use, but I did manage to glean information that the Dessarim Valley used to be home to some ancient Dwarven Civilization. I do recall Imdarr coming by asking something similar... the man said as he put his chin in his palm, considering .. trying to remember exactly what happened, when his eyebrows shoot up with sudden remembrance Ah yes, he told me that a group had gone missing, most of them Dwarves... and I told him this may have come from their lot if somehting happened to them. Though if they were ambushed by thugs... why would the thugs then toss their spoils into the river?
Ynirla on the way in, looked about to see if anyone had found themselves on the worst side of things, even if only scuffing a knee, but it seemed that quake was too minor to cause anyone to trip, or objects to fall upon them, likely much to her relief. Ynirla had experiences several, similar occurrences, while here, a similarly weak earthquake when she first arrived, and a sudden rainstorm in the middle of the day taking up the entire valley - both seemign to effect the entire region.
Kaylessa was too busy getting ready to lead the group to Vallivoe to notice the expression, though she did pass on her order to one of the nearby servers, who nodded. It was brought to Ynirla, at the cost of (2 SP) around the time that Vallivoe was telling the party he knew nothing of caravans as she approached the priest. When greeted, the man seems to shock himself as one does when caught off-guard while deep in thought. Ah.. oh, uhm.. Hello there.. Sorry, I was mulling something over... he smiles lightly though clearly still bothered. Putting his elbows on the table and laced his fingers together to show he was focusing, and listening. His smile widened as she explained herself further, only to slip back into a frown at the mention of his troubles.
I appreciate that.. Many despite the Morning Lord as much as those who love him, so I am happy to see you place thyself in the latter. So, may you find yourself blessed by his warmth. The man was a half-elf, and young only by those standards. I too travel the countryside, specifically here, in the north aiding those I can. Travelling from town to town, passing messages, or healing when needed. I would love to chat with you about your travels sometime...
I am troubled by the missing Delegation. I was in Beliard when they left, more than two tendays ago. They intended to stop in Redlarch, and it isn't possible with my pace that I would make it here before them, even if I did take the shorter path here... I fear something terrible has happened to them, and the man over there... he says, pointing to Vallivoe Seems to have one of the books the group was carrying with them, which only compounds my fears.
Many strange things have... one of the staff move to the table, handing the priest a simple meal of semi-burnt eggs and grilled ham, to which he offers his thanks for, and gives payment placing the food on the table before continuing. Sorry, I've been peckish. But strange things have been happening in the valley for almost two months. Odd weather... Odd disasters.... an entire town was set ablaze, and the surrounding area was scorched beyond recognition. I arrived after whatever it was occurred. There have been odd, sudden rainstorms when there wasn't a cloud in the sky moments before. Earthquakes of varying intensity... or massive gusts of wind that threaten to uproot trees when the air had been still, and calm just moments before.
All of that, along with the delegation going missing.. I feel a storm is brewing.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Perception for Vallivoe lies/omissions: 12
Ulf grunts at the hefty price of the ale. Mustn't like elves, he thinks. He tastes it, to see if it is particularly good, then resolves to make it last as long as possible -- good or bad.
Sitting at the bar, he watches the human priest join the other at the table, then nods to the barkeep in thanks for his advice. He picks up his gear and his drink then walks to the small group surrounding Vallivoe. He listens intently to the mans words, trying to assess if he might be hiding anything or lying about the circumstances under which he 'found' the book.
When there is a break in the conversation he asks if the Vallivoe could point to the location at which he found the book on the map. If he agrees, he carefully pulls the map from his pack, and holds it up -- fearful of food or grime on the table -- asking him to indicate where it was, and for any other information he knows about the area. If the man has more detailed knowledge, Ulf uses his recently acquired tools to make a sketch and notes.
The ale was a little better than average. Tasting of a higher quality than that of most locations, and the price was far more likely due to the upper-class-airs of the place than of racism, whether Ulf would figure this out or not was another thing. The barkeep nodding in response with a warm smile as Ulf does, then leaves to meet up with the rest of his group. As Ulf approaches and gets within decent earshot, starting to listen as the other elf takes notice of him before her eyes fall back on Shautha.. just in case.. Ulf is.. fairly certain that the man is simply telling his story as best as he's aware of it goign down, nor does Uld detect any falsehood or omission outside of the usual such as 'and there was a butterfly nearby' type... stuff that wasn't relevant to the story.
As Ulf brings up the question of the location the man says Ah, certainly. Though I won't need to mark it... It's just north of Ironford, Along the river. See here? where it says Womford and shows the Bargewright inn? A little north of there, along the banks. Though I doubt you'll find the rest of it. It was being washed down stream when last I saw it, and that was well over two tendays ago, I'd be shocked if it wasn't in Waterdeep... or the Ocean by now.
The correct check for deciet would be Insight. WHich is 2 less than your roll there. Perception is like... what you can see with a passive or fast scan.. or 'i saw a shadow out of the corner of my eye'
Investigation: 4 for any information he can gain from the book directly, or how long it was in water (perhaps based on how far ink ran)
Ulf nods and thanks the man, "This book..." he says, pointing. "When you found it, was it totally soaked through, or recently wet? May I..." he says, reaching for it.
"I wonder how long it was in the water..." he muses as he flips through the pages, trying to make out any writing.
Summary:
Learn what he can about the timing of the attack
Read as much of the book as is legible (in a short period of time!)
Ulfarion must have had little to no experience with books.. as he flips through the pages, once Vallivoe willingly hands it over, as he opens it, he notes that many of the pages are stuck together, but dry. Obviously the book has been out of water for a long while, but as he flips through it, to investigate, particles of dust float irritatingly into his eye, making it extremely difficult through the forming tears as if sawdust had gotten in them. Taking several more long moments of eye rubbing and head shaking before he could look once more. What few of the pages weren't dry-waterlogged, or otherwise destroyed, read much as the man had said - referring to the fact that there used to be an ancient dwarven kingdom in the area, though the entrance to it was long lost. Most of the rest was missing or illegible.
Ulf can, however gather that its been atleast a set of days since the attack, considering the pages have dried, and hardened to the point of dusting.
Ulf hands the book back and takes a larger sip of his ale to get rid of the musty taste and smell. He sits, pondering the map for a time, listening to see if the conversation leads to any other insights.
As Ulric listens to the man's story, a distant expression come across his face while he rubs his chin thoughtfully. He says, "It doesn't make sense that brigade would would dump or leave belongings behind. Whoever did this were no ordinary thugs. Perhaps those who where attacked through that book into the river to keep it from the hands of their aggressors."
He pretends to be deep in thought for a while and halfway hears the rest of the conversation as he muses to himself. I think these two wild folk will be lead along quite easily. He gaze flickers to the other human of the group. She will be a problem, however. I must have tipped her off somehow when we met. He smirks to himself. I should have been more cheery when we met. People don't like grumps.His smirk fades away into his usual stern countenance as he continues, Now how will I win her over?
directed at everyone except Ulrics player - Just remember, Italics text is either a whisper or a thought. In this case a thought. So it's not somehtign your character can know without some level of mind reading! Will wait for a few more posts before fully posting.
Shautha chuckles a little at the elf's expense when he gets dust on his eye. "What was that?" She asks to Ulf mockingly a moment later. "It's just a book, not a snake spitting poison at you."
After that, she says, adding to what Ulric said. "It could have also been the aggressors. Water can be as destructive as fire, but it's slower. Maybe they wanted that information destroyed, but they were in a hurry..."
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Active Campaigns:
Raiketsu's Princes of the Apocalypse (DM: Raiketsu) - Shautha: Half-Orc, Level 3 Druid (Circle of Land: Mountain) ⟆ Monster Misfits Adventures (DM: ShadIn) - Vrakskan Onyxadyn: Dragonborn, Level 3 Barbarian (Path of the Ancestral Guardian) ⟆ Rime of the Frostmaiden (DM: Sarvaeth) - Rildayne Uln'hyrr: Drow Elf, Level 1 Warlock of the Archfey
Ulf looks at Shautha, still rubbig one eye absent-mindedly, "And what do the orcs know of books?" he asks. "I'm surprised you don't call them fire-lighters!"
To her last comment, he nods grudgingly, and agrees. "We will know more when he find where they were attacked."
Shautha gives Ulf a quick glance and replies with an amused smirk. "Well, then I guess I'm not like the orcs you must be thinking about."
Then she focuses all her attention on the conversation at hand. She could have expanded on that and lied about her being different from her tribe and the other orcs, about being 'good', but ultimately she couldn't care less about what the elf thinks about her, so she doesn't bother in doing so.
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Active Campaigns:
Raiketsu's Princes of the Apocalypse (DM: Raiketsu) - Shautha: Half-Orc, Level 3 Druid (Circle of Land: Mountain) ⟆ Monster Misfits Adventures (DM: ShadIn) - Vrakskan Onyxadyn: Dragonborn, Level 3 Barbarian (Path of the Ancestral Guardian) ⟆ Rime of the Frostmaiden (DM: Sarvaeth) - Rildayne Uln'hyrr: Drow Elf, Level 1 Warlock of the Archfey
The elf maiden at the table seems to calm a bit, removing her hand from her pocket as Shautha interacts with the group -not entirely trusting her, but no longer perceiving her as a direct, intentional threat- before saying herself as she leans back into her chair, if only to relieve the built up tension that had accrued during the long several minutes. That may be true... But guessing won't get you anywhere. All of your suggestions are possible. Hiding it.. destroying it... trying to keep it from being claimed.... In the end, one way or another, it ended up in the river and Vallivoe here was able to grab atleast one object floating from the river. Nine hells... It's possible that one of the windfalls that have been plaguing us lately, or perhaps even a timely earthquake knocked some possessions loose from a cart if they weren't properly tied down... It may not be brigands but simple misfortune.
Excited but tepidly, Vallivoe interjects at the end of the elf maidens speech, crossing his arms for a moment, as if disappointed with the girl, clucking his tongue once as he reaches to be handed his book back from Ulf I am dissappointed in you Shasta. I thought you had a more adventurous mind! Certainly your suggestions are plausible, but far less interesting. I don't want misfortune to befall anyone, but I atleast want a more interesting story than "The wind blew!" Augh... Either way, as you can see, and perhaps, by now have deduced, I am trying to bring awareness to this, in hopes that someone will look into it and report to me what they discover. I will give ten gold to each participant, as I don't want anything else beyond a good story, but thus far no one has taken up the torch, and so I am forced to sit here drinking decent ale, with fine maidens sharing theories.
Anyone can make a Perception check. DC 15. Ynirla will have advantage on this check.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Shautha's Perception check: 14
Shautha rolls her eyes. "Sometimes, the boring explanation is the true one..." She says, not liking this man's unnecesary theatrics. "Real life is not some 'interesting story'."
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Active Campaigns:
Raiketsu's Princes of the Apocalypse (DM: Raiketsu) - Shautha: Half-Orc, Level 3 Druid (Circle of Land: Mountain) ⟆ Monster Misfits Adventures (DM: ShadIn) - Vrakskan Onyxadyn: Dragonborn, Level 3 Barbarian (Path of the Ancestral Guardian) ⟆ Rime of the Frostmaiden (DM: Sarvaeth) - Rildayne Uln'hyrr: Drow Elf, Level 1 Warlock of the Archfey
RachelEvening's Tyranny of the Dragon Queen - DM
RachelEvening's Tomb of Annihilation - DM
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Ulric Perception: 8
The woman tenses at Shautha's response, but still manages to nod and bow in apology. I-I'm sorry Ma'am... We don't get a lot of your k... Orcs, or Half-Orcs... And The Dessarim Valley is known for being attacked by them every so often... Ulric scans the room, and unlike some seedy tavern, or shady shop, no one here seems to be trying to hide very much. Among those in the lounge, a man, clearly a priest of Lathander though enjoying his meal, has a very troubled expression written on his face, as if something is weighing on him heavily. No one else stands particularly out, though Ulric does notice all the staff here seem particularly attentive. Regardless of his disposition, he could tell the staff were very dedicated to their jobs here.
Turning to Ulric when he speaks up, her smile brightens... slightly as his own visage gave her reason to pause for different reasons. However, when he asked, she would nod courteously as she put her hands together. Of course... In fact they've been seeking to show off something they found recently. They're quite proud of it. Right this way...
She said as she moved from the table itself, with a 'this way' hand motion walking to one side of the large ground floor of the establishment to a human man holding a book showing it off to an elvish woman who looks starstruck with the book itself. You see I was down by the river when.... was what was heard as the group (whoever joined Ulric and the owner there)
Occassional Dungeon Master.
Ulf walked up to the bar and ordered an ale, intending to ask the same question. But hearing Ulrics question, and the response, he shrugs, nods at the others, slings his pack over his shoulder, picks up his ale and follow after Ulric.
If he does not hear Ulric's request, then when his ale is served, he says to the barkeep, "I am lookong for someone. They said he likes to drink here. Called Vallivoe. Ring any bells?"
Somewhat amused by the woman's reaction, Shautha just laughs it off. "That's normal!" She answers, before Ulric takes it from there.
Following the group, she gives the elvish woman a quick side glance, a soft growl escaping her lips, before focusing on the man. "Hello. We have some questions..." She says, her smile gone.
Active Campaigns:
Raiketsu's Princes of the Apocalypse (DM: Raiketsu) - Shautha: Half-Orc, Level 3 Druid (Circle of Land: Mountain) ⟆ Monster Misfits Adventures (DM: ShadIn) - Vrakskan Onyxadyn: Dragonborn, Level 3 Barbarian (Path of the Ancestral Guardian) ⟆ Rime of the Frostmaiden (DM: Sarvaeth) - Rildayne Uln'hyrr: Drow Elf, Level 1 Warlock of the Archfey
RachelEvening's Tyranny of the Dragon Queen - DM
RachelEvening's Tomb of Annihilation - DM
Ulric adds after Shautha's comment, "Questions about the caravan that disappeared a while ago. We heard you had rumors about it." He stands fall behind the group, back straight, arms crossed behind him.
Perception, in general: 14
Back at the meeting with the discussion about provisions and supplies, Yrnila calmly states that her method of work requires very little equipment besides a map and basic survival equipment, which she already possesses. Seeing nothing better to do in the meanwhile, she accompanies the group towards the Swinging Sword.
Along the way, if it isn't too late, Yrnila would survey the shaken area. If anyone seems to have been injured in the minor earthquake, she will approach and offer minor medical care. As they are walking, her stern face regards the members of the party with an unmuted curiosity and judgement. She does not appear to be hostile, but she isn't hiding the fact that she is observing and making up her mind on what to think of the party's new members.
She enters alongside Shautha and the rest, polite expression tightening slightly at the hostility which was directed towards the Half-Orc. Most would only notice a calm disappointment in her eyes as she orders a tea from Kaylessa, but the true source to her displeasure in those words was far different.
(Taking liberties with Yrnila noticing the presence of the Priest of Lathander.)
Yrnila watches the three members of the party approach Endrith. Content to be filled in later, she will take a detour to seat herself near the priest. "Priest of the Morninglord," she greets, inclining her head in a makeshift seated bow. "I am Yrnila. I have wandered the country as a traveling medic, and I hold clinics devoted to your deity in my highest regards." Speaking with her usual clear voice and polite posture, she continues. "Please, tell me what troubles you, and tell me more about what is occurring," she asks in response to the mild tremor felt.
Ulf heads to the bar, requesting an ale. After some finagling on what 'specific' ale he wanted, and coin was passed (5 SP, which is 'half of 1 GP) he asks the Barkeeper about Vallivoe. Ah yes, he's... the man says, looking over to the table and seeing that there's already a small group there. He's right over here, though it seems he already has some business with others, or with the Owner, Miss Kaylessa. But he is over there where that group is gathered. I wish I could escort you myself but She will scold me if I leave my post! the man said with humor, hoping that Ulf would understand.
At the Vallivoe Table, the man looks up to the new folk with a bright smile, even maintaining it upon seeing Shautha, marking him as someone who likely has met with a variety of races before, though the elf woman's demeanor changes immediately when she see's Shautha's own look. Her hand instinctively goes to her pocket to touch something, though she manages to refrain from attacking if only because Kaylessa was there as her eyes dart between the two before staying on Shautha.
Vallivoe himself notes the slight tension and raises his hands to the maiden he was sharing the table with. Now now... Calm down... I'm sure they're here about my book, I asked Kaylessa to bring over anyone seeming interested in it. as the slight exchange happens between the Elf and Shautha. And you would be wrong. I have no information on this .. "Caravan" I did however discover this Dwarven Book floating down the river, there were several other supplies and chests floating when I happened upon them, but I was only deft enough to recover this.
It's quite fascinating really... It tells of some of the history of the Dessarim Valley. Unfortunately most of the pages were damaged beyond use, but I did manage to glean information that the Dessarim Valley used to be home to some ancient Dwarven Civilization. I do recall Imdarr coming by asking something similar... the man said as he put his chin in his palm, considering .. trying to remember exactly what happened, when his eyebrows shoot up with sudden remembrance Ah yes, he told me that a group had gone missing, most of them Dwarves... and I told him this may have come from their lot if somehting happened to them. Though if they were ambushed by thugs... why would the thugs then toss their spoils into the river?
Ynirla on the way in, looked about to see if anyone had found themselves on the worst side of things, even if only scuffing a knee, but it seemed that quake was too minor to cause anyone to trip, or objects to fall upon them, likely much to her relief. Ynirla had experiences several, similar occurrences, while here, a similarly weak earthquake when she first arrived, and a sudden rainstorm in the middle of the day taking up the entire valley - both seemign to effect the entire region.
Kaylessa was too busy getting ready to lead the group to Vallivoe to notice the expression, though she did pass on her order to one of the nearby servers, who nodded. It was brought to Ynirla, at the cost of (2 SP) around the time that Vallivoe was telling the party he knew nothing of caravans as she approached the priest. When greeted, the man seems to shock himself as one does when caught off-guard while deep in thought. Ah.. oh, uhm.. Hello there.. Sorry, I was mulling something over... he smiles lightly though clearly still bothered. Putting his elbows on the table and laced his fingers together to show he was focusing, and listening. His smile widened as she explained herself further, only to slip back into a frown at the mention of his troubles.
I appreciate that.. Many despite the Morning Lord as much as those who love him, so I am happy to see you place thyself in the latter. So, may you find yourself blessed by his warmth. The man was a half-elf, and young only by those standards. I too travel the countryside, specifically here, in the north aiding those I can. Travelling from town to town, passing messages, or healing when needed. I would love to chat with you about your travels sometime...
I am troubled by the missing Delegation. I was in Beliard when they left, more than two tendays ago. They intended to stop in Redlarch, and it isn't possible with my pace that I would make it here before them, even if I did take the shorter path here... I fear something terrible has happened to them, and the man over there... he says, pointing to Vallivoe Seems to have one of the books the group was carrying with them, which only compounds my fears.
Many strange things have... one of the staff move to the table, handing the priest a simple meal of semi-burnt eggs and grilled ham, to which he offers his thanks for, and gives payment placing the food on the table before continuing. Sorry, I've been peckish. But strange things have been happening in the valley for almost two months. Odd weather... Odd disasters.... an entire town was set ablaze, and the surrounding area was scorched beyond recognition. I arrived after whatever it was occurred. There have been odd, sudden rainstorms when there wasn't a cloud in the sky moments before. Earthquakes of varying intensity... or massive gusts of wind that threaten to uproot trees when the air had been still, and calm just moments before.
All of that, along with the delegation going missing.. I feel a storm is brewing.
Occassional Dungeon Master.
Perception for Vallivoe lies/omissions: 12
Ulf grunts at the hefty price of the ale. Mustn't like elves, he thinks. He tastes it, to see if it is particularly good, then resolves to make it last as long as possible -- good or bad.
Sitting at the bar, he watches the human priest join the other at the table, then nods to the barkeep in thanks for his advice. He picks up his gear and his drink then walks to the small group surrounding Vallivoe. He listens intently to the mans words, trying to assess if he might be hiding anything or lying about the circumstances under which he 'found' the book.
When there is a break in the conversation he asks if the Vallivoe could point to the location at which he found the book on the map. If he agrees, he carefully pulls the map from his pack, and holds it up -- fearful of food or grime on the table -- asking him to indicate where it was, and for any other information he knows about the area. If the man has more detailed knowledge, Ulf uses his recently acquired tools to make a sketch and notes.
Summary:
The ale was a little better than average. Tasting of a higher quality than that of most locations, and the price was far more likely due to the upper-class-airs of the place than of racism, whether Ulf would figure this out or not was another thing. The barkeep nodding in response with a warm smile as Ulf does, then leaves to meet up with the rest of his group. As Ulf approaches and gets within decent earshot, starting to listen as the other elf takes notice of him before her eyes fall back on Shautha.. just in case.. Ulf is.. fairly certain that the man is simply telling his story as best as he's aware of it goign down, nor does Uld detect any falsehood or omission outside of the usual such as 'and there was a butterfly nearby' type... stuff that wasn't relevant to the story.
As Ulf brings up the question of the location the man says Ah, certainly. Though I won't need to mark it... It's just north of Ironford, Along the river. See here? where it says Womford and shows the Bargewright inn? A little north of there, along the banks. Though I doubt you'll find the rest of it. It was being washed down stream when last I saw it, and that was well over two tendays ago, I'd be shocked if it wasn't in Waterdeep... or the Ocean by now.
The correct check for deciet would be Insight. WHich is 2 less than your roll there. Perception is like... what you can see with a passive or fast scan.. or 'i saw a shadow out of the corner of my eye'
Occassional Dungeon Master.
Investigation: 4 for any information he can gain from the book directly, or how long it was in water (perhaps based on how far ink ran)
Ulf nods and thanks the man, "This book..." he says, pointing. "When you found it, was it totally soaked through, or recently wet? May I..." he says, reaching for it.
"I wonder how long it was in the water..." he muses as he flips through the pages, trying to make out any writing.
Summary:
Ulfarion must have had little to no experience with books.. as he flips through the pages, once Vallivoe willingly hands it over, as he opens it, he notes that many of the pages are stuck together, but dry. Obviously the book has been out of water for a long while, but as he flips through it, to investigate, particles of dust float irritatingly into his eye, making it extremely difficult through the forming tears as if sawdust had gotten in them. Taking several more long moments of eye rubbing and head shaking before he could look once more. What few of the pages weren't dry-waterlogged, or otherwise destroyed, read much as the man had said - referring to the fact that there used to be an ancient dwarven kingdom in the area, though the entrance to it was long lost. Most of the rest was missing or illegible.
Ulf can, however gather that its been atleast a set of days since the attack, considering the pages have dried, and hardened to the point of dusting.
Occassional Dungeon Master.
(( lol ))
Ulf hands the book back and takes a larger sip of his ale to get rid of the musty taste and smell. He sits, pondering the map for a time, listening to see if the conversation leads to any other insights.
As Ulric listens to the man's story, a distant expression come across his face while he rubs his chin thoughtfully. He says, "It doesn't make sense that brigade would would dump or leave belongings behind. Whoever did this were no ordinary thugs. Perhaps those who where attacked through that book into the river to keep it from the hands of their aggressors."
He pretends to be deep in thought for a while and halfway hears the rest of the conversation as he muses to himself. I think these two wild folk will be lead along quite easily. He gaze flickers to the other human of the group. She will be a problem, however. I must have tipped her off somehow when we met. He smirks to himself. I should have been more cheery when we met. People don't like grumps. His smirk fades away into his usual stern countenance as he continues, Now how will I win her over?
Ulf snorts, clearly sceptical. "Or they dropped the book when they were attacked while crossing the river."
directed at everyone except Ulrics player - Just remember, Italics text is either a whisper or a thought. In this case a thought. So it's not somehtign your character can know without some level of mind reading! Will wait for a few more posts before fully posting.
Occassional Dungeon Master.
Shautha chuckles a little at the elf's expense when he gets dust on his eye. "What was that?" She asks to Ulf mockingly a moment later. "It's just a book, not a snake spitting poison at you."
After that, she says, adding to what Ulric said. "It could have also been the aggressors. Water can be as destructive as fire, but it's slower. Maybe they wanted that information destroyed, but they were in a hurry..."
Active Campaigns:
Raiketsu's Princes of the Apocalypse (DM: Raiketsu) - Shautha: Half-Orc, Level 3 Druid (Circle of Land: Mountain) ⟆ Monster Misfits Adventures (DM: ShadIn) - Vrakskan Onyxadyn: Dragonborn, Level 3 Barbarian (Path of the Ancestral Guardian) ⟆ Rime of the Frostmaiden (DM: Sarvaeth) - Rildayne Uln'hyrr: Drow Elf, Level 1 Warlock of the Archfey
RachelEvening's Tyranny of the Dragon Queen - DM
RachelEvening's Tomb of Annihilation - DM
Ulf looks at Shautha, still rubbig one eye absent-mindedly, "And what do the orcs know of books?" he asks. "I'm surprised you don't call them fire-lighters!"
To her last comment, he nods grudgingly, and agrees. "We will know more when he find where they were attacked."
Shautha gives Ulf a quick glance and replies with an amused smirk. "Well, then I guess I'm not like the orcs you must be thinking about."
Then she focuses all her attention on the conversation at hand. She could have expanded on that and lied about her being different from her tribe and the other orcs, about being 'good', but ultimately she couldn't care less about what the elf thinks about her, so she doesn't bother in doing so.
Active Campaigns:
Raiketsu's Princes of the Apocalypse (DM: Raiketsu) - Shautha: Half-Orc, Level 3 Druid (Circle of Land: Mountain) ⟆ Monster Misfits Adventures (DM: ShadIn) - Vrakskan Onyxadyn: Dragonborn, Level 3 Barbarian (Path of the Ancestral Guardian) ⟆ Rime of the Frostmaiden (DM: Sarvaeth) - Rildayne Uln'hyrr: Drow Elf, Level 1 Warlock of the Archfey
RachelEvening's Tyranny of the Dragon Queen - DM
RachelEvening's Tomb of Annihilation - DM
The elf maiden at the table seems to calm a bit, removing her hand from her pocket as Shautha interacts with the group -not entirely trusting her, but no longer perceiving her as a direct, intentional threat- before saying herself as she leans back into her chair, if only to relieve the built up tension that had accrued during the long several minutes. That may be true... But guessing won't get you anywhere. All of your suggestions are possible. Hiding it.. destroying it... trying to keep it from being claimed.... In the end, one way or another, it ended up in the river and Vallivoe here was able to grab atleast one object floating from the river. Nine hells... It's possible that one of the windfalls that have been plaguing us lately, or perhaps even a timely earthquake knocked some possessions loose from a cart if they weren't properly tied down... It may not be brigands but simple misfortune.
Excited but tepidly, Vallivoe interjects at the end of the elf maidens speech, crossing his arms for a moment, as if disappointed with the girl, clucking his tongue once as he reaches to be handed his book back from Ulf I am dissappointed in you Shasta. I thought you had a more adventurous mind! Certainly your suggestions are plausible, but far less interesting. I don't want misfortune to befall anyone, but I atleast want a more interesting story than "The wind blew!" Augh... Either way, as you can see, and perhaps, by now have deduced, I am trying to bring awareness to this, in hopes that someone will look into it and report to me what they discover. I will give ten gold to each participant, as I don't want anything else beyond a good story, but thus far no one has taken up the torch, and so I am forced to sit here drinking decent ale, with fine maidens sharing theories.
Anyone can make a Perception check. DC 15. Ynirla will have advantage on this check.
Occassional Dungeon Master.
Ulf perception: 15
Shautha's Perception check: 14
Shautha rolls her eyes. "Sometimes, the boring explanation is the true one..." She says, not liking this man's unnecesary theatrics. "Real life is not some 'interesting story'."
Active Campaigns:
Raiketsu's Princes of the Apocalypse (DM: Raiketsu) - Shautha: Half-Orc, Level 3 Druid (Circle of Land: Mountain) ⟆ Monster Misfits Adventures (DM: ShadIn) - Vrakskan Onyxadyn: Dragonborn, Level 3 Barbarian (Path of the Ancestral Guardian) ⟆ Rime of the Frostmaiden (DM: Sarvaeth) - Rildayne Uln'hyrr: Drow Elf, Level 1 Warlock of the Archfey
RachelEvening's Tyranny of the Dragon Queen - DM
RachelEvening's Tomb of Annihilation - DM