No, Lilly absolutely did not remember that woman. She was watching (with much relief) Rasmus's return, answering to the bird's attention with a giggle and only half paying attention to the conversation. But then Demetrios mentioned the card. Yes! The card! She left the window and checked her backpack. The "special" card was still there! "... There’s a ruined temple south of Conyberry where it’s said the locals hid their gold.... " Lilly was not greedy (and proved it just a few hours ago generously giving away group's (ok, questionably group's) funds to the dwarves) but anyone would agree that "gold hidden in the ruined temple" sounds incredibly romantic and adventurous! She made a note to herself to talk about it with others in the morning, put the card back and returned to the window. Rasmus was still there and the lady looked a bit sad (or maybe it was twilight's tricks? Lilly did not see all that well in the darkness) but all and all everything seemed great! She quietly yawned - it was a long day. Days. How does one retire from eavsdropping? "We will find your dragon! I promise!" She waved to the lady, smiled to Demetrius and Rasmus, and went to bed. Her dreams were full of (kind) dragons and not very specific but definitely precious treasure.

Fae watched fondly as Rasmus flitted off from Demetrios' head to the half-ling's room. When Lilly's words hit the woman's ears, her expression would flicker to one of surprise before resting on a delighted smile, returning her farewell wave. Do they know? Perhaps just coincidence...

"It is getting late Sir Demetrios." Purple hues return to the man before her. "I believe miss Lilly has the correct idea. It may be best to retire for the night." She'd smile politely. "I am here in Sister Garaele's stead while she is away." Fae would gesture to the house next to the shrine. "You, and your companions, are welcomed to visit any time."

"Enjoy your evening, and rest well." With a bow of her head, Fae would excuse herself so the adventurer could retire for the night. Tomorrow was another day.

And a new day it was. Having been a calm and still night, morning came quite peacefully.

Though with a new day, also came that refreshing energy, and for Onu, it also came with a myriad of visions. The monk's mind was pouring with inspiration. He desperately tried to keep up with it and record it. Page after page, Onu painted with passion and purpose, allowing paintbrush and pigment to convey his thoughts. Eventually, he had enough to work from and rushed it straight to KD.

Calm and collected, the artificer did just that, she assured her uncharacteristically flustered friend that a solution could be found. So KD, with the help of her mechanized companion, got to work. Putting their heads together, Onu, KD and Hal sifted through concepts and drafts, tweaking and making adjustments in order to engineer the idea. Eventually schematics are produced allowing KD to start bringing the idea to life.

Demetrios and Lilly would be able to find their companions amongst work sprawled out over a series of assumed tables, and the floor, in a corner of the Stonehill Inn. They'd notice the redheaded bambie legged bartender doing her best to balance trays of food and drink as she'd step around to try to serve them breakfast. Which by the way, smelled fantastic.

Onu smiled as KD took the collection of sketches, doodles and paintings out of his hands and carefully sorted and organized them.  As soon as it was clear she could make sense of them, he turned his attention to Hal, wondering at the complexity and artistry of such a creature.  The artificers' creative and energy never ceases to impress Onu and once more he was grateful to have her as a friend.

When she mentions bolt thrower, he shakes his head and replies 'No, not yet, but I'm sure I could find one and anything else we need here in town - I'll just pop over to the Lionshiled and be right back!'

KD and Onu seemed really busy and Lilly caught herself at already walking to the bar to help with serving food. She had to remind herself, here she is only a guest and should not embarrass the staff by hinting they can not manage. She picked up her own food, though (and Demetrios' too, probably - that was not really the help, was it? Just a customer taking her own order).

Once everyone could pay attention to the breakfast, Lilly placed on the table the "mystery" card. "We are going to report to burgomaster today, right? And then can be all on our way. But what if we are not? I mean, it's not a real map or anything and there is a dragon somewhere there, but think - just outside the town some treasure might wait for any brave soul! And it is all ours too. I mean, not "our" ours but ... finders keepers?"

At the mention of treasure, Onu's head popped up, his mouth still full of food 'Treasure is always of interest my Dear Lilly.  I agree, let's report to the Burgomeister himself-himself today, and then I'm game to continue to poke around for this veritable dragon's horde...'

Hearing that Rasmus checked in with Fae often was a relief. He didn't want it to seem as if they were stealing the bird, or caging him in. The warrior does notice her forlorn look though at his question, and he was about to apologize to her for perhaps prying too much, but he stops when she speaks, his look softening into one of sympathy. He extends his hand once more, this time giving her a comforting pat on the shoulder.

"I thank you for seeing such potential in us, Miss Fae." He bows his head with eyes closed, bringing the hand over his heart. "I do hope that we meet and perhaps exceed your expectations."  Cognac hues open once more to meet her gaze with a gentle smile tugging at the corner of his lips. "And if you want to tag along with us... I don't think anyone of us would truly mind the extra company." 

With Rasmus flitting off to Lilly, he took it as a sign that it was time to go back to bed, and it seemed like Fae agreed. "I'll discuss dropping on by with my group. Perhaps you know some things we don't? But that is to be discussed tomorrow, hopefully. Thank you, Miss Fae. Please travel safely and have a good evening."

He also bows his head and departs back into the inn, a little more optimistic and awake than before.

Thankfully, Demetrios rises in the morning without too much of a headache, and manages to do some stretches before washing up and donning his armor once more. Today would possibly be another busy day for the group, and he ensures that he has everything secured on his person before heading downstairs to join the rest of the team. 

However seeing the state a particular two had left a specific corner of the inn leaves him a bit stunned to say the least. "Woah..." If allowed to, he picks up some of the parchment strewn about and gives them quick glimpses before carefully stacking them and putting them on the table. "Busy morning, huh?" He questions Onu and KD, a hint of jest within his words. 

Seeing Lilly grab a plate for him gets him to smile to the halfling. "Thank you, Lilly. I appreciate it." He sits himself down with the group, listening to their course of action for the day, nodding along with the idea of poking around a dragons horde. "We need to be careful though," The paladin pipes in after chewing on some delicious eggs. "Dragons are dangerous, to say the least... Perhaps we should gather some intel about the creature? I know someone we could inquire. Met them just last night with Lilly. A friend of Rasmus'."

'Learning as much as possible about an adversary is always a good first step! Yes, yes let's ask around and see what we can uncover about this fell creature.  I believe KD and I are largely finished here..?' a glance at the artificer to see if they were indeed ready to wrap up and move on even as the monk stacks and then rolls a handful of paintings he intends to keep and piles the others into his pack to be reused as needed.

KD nods at Onu. "I can accompany you to ensure it's of sufficient quality," KD says, beginning to organize the different schematics, though pausing when Demetrios begins taking an interest. "Happy to explain. No, actually, it'll take too long. Still getting my head wrapped around it myself. But maybe we can find a way to build on that magnificent martial structure you so effortlessly use to perambulate Faerun. I'm taking notes. Always open to suggestions. Anyhow, did someone say dragon? Might be a little out of our league, but I've always been curious. Ready to go when you all are." She has no idea who Fae is, but is open to meeting her, going to the mayor, going shopping, or going snooping.

Having been raised in hospitality, Lilly was definitely familiar with the roles and demands associated with serving the public. It was painfully obvious to her that the red headed bartender was not well versed in the sector. The halfling did her best to inconspicuously tend to her companions to satisfy her itch, as well as to ensure they each got their meals hot, and safely. It wasn’t until Lilly sat down to begin her meal that she’d notice that the bambi bartender actually had a large scar along the side of her head. It was then that she was hit with the epiphany that that’s why she was forgetful and clumsy. It also could account for Toblen’s patience and leniency with the woman. It was like she was literally just trying to get back on her feet. 

Returning her attention to the excitement at hand, Lilly was sure to present the spare card to the group. Some of the group continued to work as they ate, while others simply enjoyed the meal and discussion presented at the table. As the conversation carried on, Rasmus would busy himself with poking around at Lilly and her meal for ‘pieces of candy’. Eventually when he was finally satisfied with provisions, he’d move on to clamouring all over Demetrios’ armour to check himself out for the day. And of course it wasn’t without his chiming confirmations that Rasmus was in fact, a pretty bird. 

KD finalized her thoughts and gathered her documents once she, and the others, finished their meals. It was decided! The Lionshield Coaster first, and quickly. Then once Onu was outfitted with a new rapier and crossbow, they’d pay a visit to the mayor and then to this new friend Demetrios made.

(Would anyone else like anything from the Lionshield Coaster prior to me setting up the scene for visiting the Mayor?)

Time flew fast and Lilly did not mind staying in the Inn a bit longer. She thought for a few moments if it will be appropriate to ask about the scar but shook this idea off. Instead, Lilly helped around - as inconspicuously as she could but if caught simply smile and explain it by old habits.

Other than that, Rasmus was a great company. So was Demetrios. "You mean that Lady? Would be great if she knows something about the dragon. Or, better yet, about the ruins and the treasure. No, better about all of it... You know, someone else about can know about that ruins." And if there is anyone who knows everything (or suppose to) it's the innkeeper! Travellers talk (when they do not eat and sleep). And from her experience, they love to talk more than the last two activities combined, or at least as much. Lilly put yet another tray aside and walked to Toblen. "Have you ever heard about the ruined temple south of Conyberry?" She climbed on the closest sit and prepared to listen.

Hearing the sound of a tray being set down and sensing curious eyes looking at him, Toblen would turn around from his task to find the red headed halfling. He’d smile warmly, inclining his head in greeting and without skipping a beat, Lilly asked her question. The man would let out a low chuckle from her enthusiasm. He’d then place down the mug he was drying and toss his rag onto his shoulder. “Hmmm…” The owner rubbed his chin as he thought. “Aye… Well Miss Lilly.” He’d start. “I know more of Conyberry itself than that there shrine south of it.” Toblen would admit with a bit of a sigh, not wanting to disappoint her. “Truth be told, the only other person who’s ever asked about that place was Fae.” He’d let out a deep sigh shaking his head. “Poor girl…” He’d muse. “She’s been trying to find answers for a long time… Searching for…” He’d wave his hand to stop himself as it wasn’t what Lilly asked, nor was it his place. “What I do remember from the times she spent working on her research here…” He’d lift a finger. “Something about a special altar.” He’d say. “She’s wanted to go there herself, but threats come and go, inhabiting that place, preventing safe access.”

'Safe access? Well that just happens to be our specialty!' Onu would chime in from over Lilly's shoulder, having followed her over to the bar as much to get himself a refill as to listen in on her converation with the innkeep. 'We''d be happy to help the Lady Fae find whatever - or whoever - she may be searching for' especially if there is treasure to be found the half-elf would think to himself

"You don't think the altar is... you know?" Lilly looked meaningfully at Ono. She was not disappointed and the perspective to get someone who actually knows something about the ruins was great. "Yes, we sure can help. Did we tell you about the temple we practically cleaned up from threat two days ago?" Lilly did not plan to brag it just happened naturally. Is that how all the tall tales that travellers tell happen? Well, their tale was a pure truth! And others had to know about the great deed!

On the other hand, Ono was already here, so the group could begin their visits - shop, the lady and the mayor.

Toblen couldn’t help but smile and allow a low chuckle to escape from the their continued enthusiasm. “Aye, she’d be happy to hear that.” He’d nod.

When their bellies were full, and their bags packed, the group of adventurers would take their exit from Stonehill in. The morning was overcast and a bit cloudy, though it didn’t appear to dampen their bright spirits as they made their way across the town square. Onu knew exactly where to go, he was just there yesterday after all. 

Entering the Lionshield Coaster, Onu would be greeted with a warmer smile. “My, my, you’ve come early today.” Linene would wink to the half-elf before chuckling from her own joke. “Come, come.” She’d wave them in as she made her way across the store to her counter. “What is it that I can assist you with today?” 

If anyone were to wait outside the establishment…

"Hello," KD says, matter-of-factly, though with a serviceable charming smile. "I'm KD, and I believe this gentleman is first interested in looking at your bolt throwers. Do you make them yourself?"

Lionshield Coaster

Everywhere one would look in the Lionshield Coaster, there was something there to adorn the space. Though, it did not give a sense of clutter. Everything appeared to have a place. As expected, all of the common items were easily accessible for purchase. If one were to look for something a little extra special, there was this draw that perhaps one could find it if they looked hard enough or could persuade the owner for the inconspicuously hidden items.

Linene Greywind

"Hello KD." The woman would turn her attention to KD, inclining her head in a respectful welcome. "I'm Linene Greywind." She'd introduce herself to her new patron shopping on behalf of her companion. "Ah." As she'd take her time getting up from her seat, Linene would gesture to the section. "No, I must admit that I do not make them myself." Resting her arms behind her back, the woman would follow from behind to allow her customers to browse freely. "The days before this dragon, we were fortunate enough to have had adventurers escort a shipment, as well as discover and return stolen stores from Cragmaw." For a straightforward woman there was a hint of fondness in her voice. "Ah yes, and a very talented artificer amongst them... You radiate a similar spirit." The experienced woman could recognize one when she saw one.

KD allows a small, but well-meaning smile. “I dabble. Thank you. I’d love to see what you have, and I believe Onu here has some other things he had on his list. And yes, this is Hal. Say hello Hal. Hal can’t talk but he does wave. There you go. Gotta, refine that later. Anyhow, I can browse for some spare parts - I’m mainly interested in castoffs and odd pieces you might not know exactly how to market, collecting dust on the shelf. Plus, of course, anything special. And I believe we are always in the market for healing potions. Rough line of work and some of us are still learning how to duck.”

Onu pulls out the notes he and KD made, details on a slender double edged blade, a hard wood sheath and an ingenious blot thrower. 

"My dear friend here is helping me realize my vision - my literal visions - and I'm hoping you can help us find a few bits and bobs here to make it work'

Lilly did not need anything specific here and indeed used the shop as a museum. She greeted Linene Greywind, elbowed KD, whispering about the gemstones in case the group has not had enough money for the project and moved along the shelves. Looking at all these toys she was beginning to understand the attraction of a fighter career. 

"The days before this dragon? Do you mean the one that was spotted recently?" Lilly immediately reacted to the word occupying all her thoughts right now. "Who has actually seen him?"

Linene's eyebrows raise in slight surprise when she would be introduced to this mechanical monkey. She's only witnessed this level of detail work once before. "My, my." The woman grins to herself. Similar to the famed Master Artificer himself... "Pleased to meet you Hal." She nods respectfully to them before returning her attention back to it's creator. Nodding along to KD's requests and Onu's adds she'd pause thoughtfully for a moment. She'd put her hand up then gesture for them to follow her a few feet over.

"Feel free to take your pick from these racks here. Some may have a design feature you may prefer over another." Linene would provide the up sell line as she passed by, giving them room to browse various crossbows and rapiers. As they looked, she continued her way back towards her desk. "As for healing potions, you are in luck. Nova delivered a batch from the healer yesterday."

When the little redhead would pipe up Linene would pause in her tracks. A small smirk tugged at her lips. Her eyes glanced to the halfling, "This dragon, oh yes." She emphasizes. Who doesn't love a little gossip? "My little birds whisper rumours that the healer, Adabra, and company spotted it recently." She'd then lean in to whisper to Lilly, "Word has it..." Lowers her voice even more to barely a whisper. "That young wizard has seen two."

"TWO!" Rasmus chimes, popping out from Lilly's hair.

Linene startles clamping her hand over her chest. "Edgar!" She gasps in surprise. "You sneaky raven-" The woman exhales in a sigh, working on catching her breath.

"Rasmus!" The raven corrects the woman. "Rasmus. Pretty bird!" Repeating himself until the old woman corrects herself.

Linene, still wide eyed, chuckles to herself more. "Rasmus." She breathes. "Yes. Pretty bird." Then points to a random shield. "Look. Shiny."

"Ou! Piece of candy!" Rasmus immediately flutters off to go strut around in front of a shiny shield. Of course he'd continue his affirmations about how much of a pretty bird he was.

Linene shakes her head in amusement to herself. After a moment she gestures for any one to follow her back the rest of the way to her counter. She glances over her shoulder to them. "We don't tell Barthen about this, hmm?" Her brows pop, waiting for confirmation. Once she got it, the woman pulls a dusty old dark cloth off a large object presenting a large red chest with hand painted flowers of many colours. "Let's see what the Tickle Trunk can do for you..."

Persuasion Check
(If you're purchasing or selling something please roll.)

Roll Call: Anyone!