This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
History: 10
"A living doctor in the empire?" Grugga says, surprised, when Doctor Della Rosa introduces himself. "A pleasure, I am Grugga of Raven's Hill;" he reaches his hand out to shake, but worries about snapping the old man's twig-arms off. He continues introducing himself, "baccalaureate in automation from the College of Applied Divinity in Tucker Hills. As a fellow man of science, may I ask what you plan on using the hydra blood for, Doctor Della Rosa?"
Rohuzar grunts in acknowledgement of the writ on the wall and seems pretty pleased by the sound of the odd groan and grumble coming from his mouth and chest.
“Pleasure doing business. Remember us should you have other needs.”
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
History: 7
Perception: 18
Leelan is in awe during the whole visit of the Universitas Vitae. It reminds him of his years where he studied back in the North.
"A pleasure to meet you. Leelan Dapper, at your service. I am quite impressed by the research you have going on here. Out of intellectual curiosity, what purpose will those vials of blood serve?"
Leelan is in awe during the whole visit of the Universitas Vitae. It reminds him of his years where he studied back in the North.
"A pleasure to meet you. Leelan Dapper, at your service. I am quite impressed by the research you have going on here. Out of intellectual curiosity, what purpose will those vials of blood serve?"
Give us a persuasion check Leelan.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
PC - Ethel - Human - Lvl 4 Necromancer - Undying Dragons * Serge Marshblade - Human - Lvl 5 Eldritch Knight - Hoard of the Dragon Queen
DM -(Homebrew) Heroes of Bardstown *Red Dead Annihilation: ToA *Where the Cold Winds Blow : DoIP * Covetous, Dragonish Thoughts: HotDQ * Red Wine, Black Rose: CoS * Greyhawk: Tides of War
"A living doctor in the empire?" Grugga says, surprised, when Doctor Della Rosa introduces himself. "A pleasure, I am Grugga of Raven's Hill;" he reaches his hand out to shake, but worries about snapping the old man's twig-arms off. He continues introducing himself, "baccalaureate in automation from the College of Applied Divinity in Tucker Hills. As a fellow man of science, may I ask what you plan on using the hydra blood for, Doctor Della Rosa?"
Persuasion check Grugga. (Based on reading the posts, my impression is Grugga is asking the doctor and Leelan is asking the assistant).
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
PC - Ethel - Human - Lvl 4 Necromancer - Undying Dragons * Serge Marshblade - Human - Lvl 5 Eldritch Knight - Hoard of the Dragon Queen
DM -(Homebrew) Heroes of Bardstown *Red Dead Annihilation: ToA *Where the Cold Winds Blow : DoIP * Covetous, Dragonish Thoughts: HotDQ * Red Wine, Black Rose: CoS * Greyhawk: Tides of War
Grugga, before he departs, the old man looks you over and considers your question. At last he responds, "The hydra possesses certain unique qualities that set it apart. There are many beasts and monstrosities in the world with strange and wondrous properties... but many are the product of ancient sorceries or... infernal interference with the natural world. The hydra, perhaps along with dragons, are naturally occurring magical creatures. That makes them... and their properties... of particular use. Beyond that I will say no more... save this. You seem a straightforward and intelligent young man. You should apply some of your critical thinking toward that demon-god of yours, while your mind is still your own." With that he turns on his heel and departs down the side hall.
Leelan, the assistant, Audrey, adjusts her spectacles and looks down at you. Her rote demeanor shattered for a moment, she remarks, "A gnome! How wonderful! You know I just finished peer reviewing a paper on the likelihood of hybridization between dwarves, red dwarves, and gnomes, so it is just the most remarkable coincidence that I should meet you. The blood? Well, it is a really long story and would probably bore you to tears. But Doctor Della Rosa is one of the world's great experts on potions of longevity and the hydra blood, in great enough quantities and once properly refined, is one of the keys to minimizing or eliminating some of the down side drawbacks to that particular concoction." After taking another long look at Leelan, she seems to remember herself and ushers you all out the door.
PC - Ethel - Human - Lvl 4 Necromancer - Undying Dragons * Serge Marshblade - Human - Lvl 5 Eldritch Knight - Hoard of the Dragon Queen
DM -(Homebrew) Heroes of Bardstown *Red Dead Annihilation: ToA *Where the Cold Winds Blow : DoIP * Covetous, Dragonish Thoughts: HotDQ * Red Wine, Black Rose: CoS * Greyhawk: Tides of War
It sounds like the decision on the other Hydra parts was to sell the meat and heads, and convert the hide into a set of blue hydra leather armor. Aubrey, Sadeeq is unable to part with a head... his client would specifically be interested in an eight-headed hydra mount which is what makes what you have absolutely perfect. The best he can do to sweeten the pot is offer to provide you with a discount in the future if you ever elect to have something mounted.
The 25gp for the armor is cash on delivery. Maerwynn Darkdraft will have someone deliver the finished product to Aubrey's townhouse on the 26th or the 27th and will collect payment at that time. So there is no need to worry about it at this precise moment.
Between the blood and the other items, you've collected a total of 219gp and another 160cp.
Rohuzar:
The Red Band's cut, based on the terms they explained to you, would be 99gp, 2sp, 7cp. That leaves 24gp, 2sp and 6cp as the cut for each of the five of you.
It is very late afternoon on 12 May 2105, and for the first time in days your group has no where to be and nothing to do....
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
PC - Ethel - Human - Lvl 4 Necromancer - Undying Dragons * Serge Marshblade - Human - Lvl 5 Eldritch Knight - Hoard of the Dragon Queen
DM -(Homebrew) Heroes of Bardstown *Red Dead Annihilation: ToA *Where the Cold Winds Blow : DoIP * Covetous, Dragonish Thoughts: HotDQ * Red Wine, Black Rose: CoS * Greyhawk: Tides of War
Rohuzar seems happy to just keep looking for jobs. “I vill make run to guild hall to deposit their cut. They don’t post jobs there, really, but it is good to have face time with guild now and then if anyone is interested in joining me.”
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Aubrey history: 19 Aubrey perception: 12
As they visit Universitas Vitae Aubrey is reminded of the golden days of House Goldentide back in Amnifortis. He has to be patient but his resolve to return his house to its former glory is strengthened. He walks the halls in silence.
"Splendid, perhaps the rest of us should take the afternoon off at the The Robust Hound Inn and Tavern, and perhaps take a new look at that notice board." Aubrey suggests to the others as Rohuzar leaves for the guild hall. "Perhaps it is time for us to go goblin or lizard-folk hunting?"
Guilim quickly shoves his coin away, frowning at the rather high rate that the redbrands continue to get from their work. He shrugs and quietly moves to return to the tavern to look over the board for other jobs that make good money.
Grugga bristles a bit at the doctor's last piece of advice, but he shakes it off - even the most educated empire folk are not immune to their typical short-sightedness, it seems. He considers debating the old man, but decides to leave him as a big fish in a small pond; Grugga will prove him wrong by continuing his holy work in the empire. So far, these last few days adventuring him have helped his cause more than the last month proselytizing in the city squares.
"I think we've earned a reprieve, haven't we? I'll join you all at the Hound. Leelan, are you still thinking about getting that hydra armor made? I think you should do it - it befits a monster expert like you."
Based on the team's earnings, and assuming you report it all as expected, the Red Band will be looking at a cut of 126gp, 2sp and 7cp.
There is a remainder then between what has been paid out to the men and what is due to be paid out to the guild. Based on my math there will be 9gp, 3sp left over.
Your Red Band Lieutenant, Falstaff, keeps an office in a room above the Chenoweth Hotel in the foreign quarter of Bardstown. He's intrigued to see you so soon.
Guilim:
It is a fat cut being taken by the Red Band. But this would also be putting a larger share in your pocket than your experience with the Hook & Axe back in Lordstown. The H&A paid a flat monthly salary to all of the mercenaries, regardless of what you were actually doing that month. So if you were out hunting goblins or on bandit patrol, and another fighter was back at home base doing weapons training - you both saw the same pay for that month. At least here, you're seeing a cut commensurate with the work you are performing.
Aubrey, Guilim, Leelan and Grugga return to the Robust Hound. The dinner rush is just picking up but you are able to find two adjacent tables inside and pull them together to sit. These are the last open seats inside and the tavern is buzzing with activity and conversation. A server you haven't seen before - a young and rather thin dwarf with a beard threaded with cork beads - introduces himself as Karloff and presents you with a small chalkboard with the evening's menu.
Wines
House Merlot: a house-made red wine with a bouquet that is buttery and full Glass 5sp, 8cp; Bottle 1gp, 7sp
Holy Dwarf Riesling: a finely made white wine that is described as powerful and rough Glass 1gp; Bottle 3gp
Beers
House Stout: A house-brewed dark stout, described as refreshing with an aftertaste of barley Pint 9cp; Huge Mug 3sp
Turtle King Amber Ale (chilled): copper-colored golden ale, described as a nutty golden ale with a hint of chocolate and a bitter finish, served ice cold somehow Pint 9sp, 9cp
Liquor
Hot Corn Spirit: clear and very harsh Shot 1sp
Top Hat Halfling Rum: decent rum, made from sugarcane Shot 4sp
Food:
Poached Lake Pike with potato cakes: 5sp
Vegetable Stew with beef stock: 2sp, 9cp
In place of the dwarf and elf minstrel duo from the last few evenings, a middle aged human man with a deep bronze complexion stands up on the raised patio, playing a horn. It is a deep, low sound played with a melancholy beat but not overpowering... it is just the right volume to set the mood without intruding on patron's conversations.
For those who investigate the notice board, there is only one new posting and some of the prior postings are now absent.
Postings in Common:
Wanted: Sildaren of Falinor aka ‘Sugar Wolf’ 2000gp
Wanted for questioning in a criminal matter. Reward is forfeit unless captured and delivered alive. Believed to be traveling in the region and will be using fake identity, likely traveling with other elves. Should be considered armed and dangerous. MUST BE BROUGHT IN ALIVE*. If captured, see the desk manager at the Monkfish Hotel in Bluffton.
*Or delivered within 3 days if killed during apprehension.
This poster depicts an unbelievably detailed likeness of a younger elven man with a wry smile. As you examine the image, it changes slightly showing the fugitive with different appearances; a thin beard and mustache; a shaved head; hair pulled up in a bun; clean shaven with a pony tail; etc. Whatever magic is woven into this poster, it is potent and leaves an impression on you. You feel you might have a hard time forgetting this face.
Official Notice
The Barony of Silvercreek has extended elevated bounty rewards for the following vermin:
Goblin – 2gp
Ogre – 20gp
The elevated bounty rewards shall remain in place through midsummer, or until such time as the numbers of these vermin are sufficiently culled.
Bounty: The Lizard of Dunmoore
Know all ye who read this: the good Lord Karo Viktoriia of the town of Dunmoore is hereby proffering the generous bounty of 300gp to any man who brings him the head of the monstrous lizard-man who hath these last months organised banditry and lawlessness upon the travelers of the Emperor’s highways. The fiend retreats with its lackeys ever into the Dunmoore marshes and is thought to lair theirin.
This poster includes a crude drawing of a grey-scaled lizard-folk with a large orange horn on his snout.
Recovery of Stolen Property
I am in need of a tracker who can pursue and defeat a renegade ranger. Said ranger was hired to escort a traveler returning to Bardstown from the northern trade roads. This ranger proceeded to murder the traveler and make off with a valuable item. The theft occurred two days ago on the roads northwest of town and the ranger is believed to be both capable and dangerous - he may have returned north or may still be local. Fee will depend on prompt recovery and discretion.
The note says to inquire with Esteban at the Rare Earth Materials building in Southbank for more details.
Postings in Elvish:
Postings in Dwarvish:
Expedition
Looking to hire four capable swords. Travel required. Should not be more than 3-4 weeks. Details upon hire. Rate negotiable.
Postings in Old Imperial:
CHAMPION NEEDED
A slobbish boor has crossed all societal lines and needs to be put back in his place. Alas, I am ill-suited to the martial arts and require someone with a more blunt touch to deal with this blackguard. No killing – that would be illegal and I would be forced to report you to the authorities. But the ignorant sod must be taught a lesson. This is of critical urgency and I am prepared to pay to see the job done right. – Master Tobin Borghese
Hydra Blood
Required in volume. 100gp/liter. Inquire with Doctor Ignatius Della Rosa at the Universitas Vitae.
After you have all been seated for a few minutes, a cloaked and hooded figure approaches your table. He addresses you in Elvish:
"The innkeep tells me you are partners with the Orc Rohuzar. I am out of time. If your organization will help me with the bird woman I must know now, or I must depart. My ward will surely be growing distraught with how long I have already left him alone to care for the creature."
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
PC - Ethel - Human - Lvl 4 Necromancer - Undying Dragons * Serge Marshblade - Human - Lvl 5 Eldritch Knight - Hoard of the Dragon Queen
DM -(Homebrew) Heroes of Bardstown *Red Dead Annihilation: ToA *Where the Cold Winds Blow : DoIP * Covetous, Dragonish Thoughts: HotDQ * Red Wine, Black Rose: CoS * Greyhawk: Tides of War
Having gotten a taste for adventuring now Aubrey gives in to his curiosity and quickly checks the notice board as he enters the Robust Hound before taking a seat at their tables. "There's a new job up. Someone wants help with tracking down a ranger who stole a valuable item. Sounds like it will take us north if we take it, but it seemed to be urgent." Aubrey says to anyone who not already read it. He then takes a quick look at the menu and orders Poached Lake Pike with a glass of Holy Dwarf Riesling from Karloff while enjoying the entertainment. As the cloaked man approaches them Aubrey likely recognizes the language as elvish but does not understand what the cloaked man says to them. Instead he tries to see the reactions of those who seem to do so.
Grugga orders the pike and a pint of house stout. He nods along to Aubrey's assessment of the job, "and urgent jobs, I suppose, necessarily bring better pay."
When the hooded man approaches, Grugga looks bewildered for a moment and then translates for his colleagues who can't understand, "This man wants a decision on whether we're taking the job to help with the 'bird woman'," he looks at his companions, "I vaguely remember Rohuzar telling us about this. Do we know if he had plans to take this job or not? He wants a decision now." he says, gesturing to the cloaked man with his head.
The man is indeed willing to wait, though perhaps misinterpreting your intentions he pulls up a seat and joins you at your table. As the time passes he thrums his fingers on the table top but does not initiate conversation.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
PC - Ethel - Human - Lvl 4 Necromancer - Undying Dragons * Serge Marshblade - Human - Lvl 5 Eldritch Knight - Hoard of the Dragon Queen
DM -(Homebrew) Heroes of Bardstown *Red Dead Annihilation: ToA *Where the Cold Winds Blow : DoIP * Covetous, Dragonish Thoughts: HotDQ * Red Wine, Black Rose: CoS * Greyhawk: Tides of War
Rohuzar will knock before going to see Lieutenant Falstaff. Upon entry (however long that takes), he’ll salute and provide a written report as well as itemized account of money earned and paid for all they’ve done so far. “I have question before I return to vork, sir. Looking for information on Blue Crowns. You’ll see in my report there vas confrontation. They seem… unprofessional, but connected. Not looking to cause trouble, sir, but I should like advice of someone more experienced in guild matters.”
Robust Hound:
When Rohuzar returns to the inn, he recognizes the elf and his expression falls somewhat. In elvish: “Sir, I cannot take this job. I looked for interested backer, and it failed. I’m sorry, but I must take paying jobs. Your current offer is just not enough.”
The office maintained by Falstaff reminds you a bit of the room maintained by Lady Shelley... if instead of books, art and scrolls, the walls were decorated with knives, maces, and animal hides. Maps are common to both, as Falstaff has several different maps of the region hanging from his walls. When you are shown into his office, Falstaff is at his desk, looking over reports with a dour expression on his face. He looks up at you with interest, which improves to an impish grin when you deliver your report and your coin.
"Hot damn. I knew you were going to pan out. Less than 3 days and you've already earned back more than the monthly stipend and the signing bonus we paid to your crew. That's the kind of initiative we're looking for right now." He rises from his desk and moves over to a low cabinet. As he reaches inside, you hear the rings on his fingers clinking against glass. "Ah. There she is." He returns with a small glass bottle filled with a brown liquor. He sets it in front of you on the desk. "For you and your team. Kindlewood Bourbon... finished in old brandy casques recovered from the first Amnifortis expeditions in 2091." He grins. "Consider it a bonus to celebrate mutual success. Don't let that go to waste now," he adds in case Rohuzar is not familiar with spirits. "That little bottle could easily fetch 12, maybe 15gp."
He considers for a moment more then looks at your hands. "Here. One more thing." He removes a ring from his hand and tosses it across the desk to you. It is a black steel ring with a ribbon of dark red gemstone, perhaps pyrope garnet. Though the elf pulled it off of his thumb, it looks like it would comfortably fit your ring finger. "Wear that with pride. We are recruiting aggressively right now and some of the teams we are fielding... frankly they leave a lot to be desired. But if you run into any other team leads or Lieutenants out in the field, they'll see that ring and know you're legit. Good work. I look forward to your next visit."
The 'Red Band Ring' is worth 5gp.
Back at the Robust Hound, the wild elf stiffens at Rohuzar's declination... then sags his shoulders. Without another word he rises from the table and departs out the tavern door. Karloff returns with Aubrey's and Grugga's drinks and to take any other orders.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
PC - Ethel - Human - Lvl 4 Necromancer - Undying Dragons * Serge Marshblade - Human - Lvl 5 Eldritch Knight - Hoard of the Dragon Queen
DM -(Homebrew) Heroes of Bardstown *Red Dead Annihilation: ToA *Where the Cold Winds Blow : DoIP * Covetous, Dragonish Thoughts: HotDQ * Red Wine, Black Rose: CoS * Greyhawk: Tides of War
To post a comment, please login or register a new account.
History: 10
"A living doctor in the empire?" Grugga says, surprised, when Doctor Della Rosa introduces himself. "A pleasure, I am Grugga of Raven's Hill;" he reaches his hand out to shake, but worries about snapping the old man's twig-arms off. He continues introducing himself, "baccalaureate in automation from the College of Applied Divinity in Tucker Hills. As a fellow man of science, may I ask what you plan on using the hydra blood for, Doctor Della Rosa?"
Rohuzar history 4
perception 19
Rohuzar grunts in acknowledgement of the writ on the wall and seems pretty pleased by the sound of the odd groan and grumble coming from his mouth and chest.
“Pleasure doing business. Remember us should you have other needs.”
Paladin - warforged - orange
History: 7
Perception: 18
Leelan is in awe during the whole visit of the Universitas Vitae. It reminds him of his years where he studied back in the North.
"A pleasure to meet you. Leelan Dapper, at your service. I am quite impressed by the research you have going on here. Out of intellectual curiosity, what purpose will those vials of blood serve?"
Give us a persuasion check Leelan.
PC - Ethel - Human - Lvl 4 Necromancer - Undying Dragons * Serge Marshblade - Human - Lvl 5 Eldritch Knight - Hoard of the Dragon Queen
DM - (Homebrew) Heroes of Bardstown * Red Dead Annihilation: ToA * Where the Cold Winds Blow : DoIP * Covetous, Dragonish Thoughts: HotDQ * Red Wine, Black Rose: CoS * Greyhawk: Tides of War
Persuasion check Grugga. (Based on reading the posts, my impression is Grugga is asking the doctor and Leelan is asking the assistant).
PC - Ethel - Human - Lvl 4 Necromancer - Undying Dragons * Serge Marshblade - Human - Lvl 5 Eldritch Knight - Hoard of the Dragon Queen
DM - (Homebrew) Heroes of Bardstown * Red Dead Annihilation: ToA * Where the Cold Winds Blow : DoIP * Covetous, Dragonish Thoughts: HotDQ * Red Wine, Black Rose: CoS * Greyhawk: Tides of War
(I can't speak for Leelan, but mine is directed at the doctor)
19
(If Grugga is directing his at the doctor, mine will be for the assistant I guess)
Persuasion: 20
(Woo!)
Grugga, before he departs, the old man looks you over and considers your question. At last he responds, "The hydra possesses certain unique qualities that set it apart. There are many beasts and monstrosities in the world with strange and wondrous properties... but many are the product of ancient sorceries or... infernal interference with the natural world. The hydra, perhaps along with dragons, are naturally occurring magical creatures. That makes them... and their properties... of particular use. Beyond that I will say no more... save this. You seem a straightforward and intelligent young man. You should apply some of your critical thinking toward that demon-god of yours, while your mind is still your own." With that he turns on his heel and departs down the side hall.
Leelan, the assistant, Audrey, adjusts her spectacles and looks down at you. Her rote demeanor shattered for a moment, she remarks, "A gnome! How wonderful! You know I just finished peer reviewing a paper on the likelihood of hybridization between dwarves, red dwarves, and gnomes, so it is just the most remarkable coincidence that I should meet you. The blood? Well, it is a really long story and would probably bore you to tears. But Doctor Della Rosa is one of the world's great experts on potions of longevity and the hydra blood, in great enough quantities and once properly refined, is one of the keys to minimizing or eliminating some of the down side drawbacks to that particular concoction." After taking another long look at Leelan, she seems to remember herself and ushers you all out the door.
PC - Ethel - Human - Lvl 4 Necromancer - Undying Dragons * Serge Marshblade - Human - Lvl 5 Eldritch Knight - Hoard of the Dragon Queen
DM - (Homebrew) Heroes of Bardstown * Red Dead Annihilation: ToA * Where the Cold Winds Blow : DoIP * Covetous, Dragonish Thoughts: HotDQ * Red Wine, Black Rose: CoS * Greyhawk: Tides of War
It sounds like the decision on the other Hydra parts was to sell the meat and heads, and convert the hide into a set of blue hydra leather armor. Aubrey, Sadeeq is unable to part with a head... his client would specifically be interested in an eight-headed hydra mount which is what makes what you have absolutely perfect. The best he can do to sweeten the pot is offer to provide you with a discount in the future if you ever elect to have something mounted.
The 25gp for the armor is cash on delivery. Maerwynn Darkdraft will have someone deliver the finished product to Aubrey's townhouse on the 26th or the 27th and will collect payment at that time. So there is no need to worry about it at this precise moment.
Between the blood and the other items, you've collected a total of 219gp and another 160cp.
Rohuzar:
The Red Band's cut, based on the terms they explained to you, would be 99gp, 2sp, 7cp. That leaves 24gp, 2sp and 6cp as the cut for each of the five of you.
It is very late afternoon on 12 May 2105, and for the first time in days your group has no where to be and nothing to do....
PC - Ethel - Human - Lvl 4 Necromancer - Undying Dragons * Serge Marshblade - Human - Lvl 5 Eldritch Knight - Hoard of the Dragon Queen
DM - (Homebrew) Heroes of Bardstown * Red Dead Annihilation: ToA * Where the Cold Winds Blow : DoIP * Covetous, Dragonish Thoughts: HotDQ * Red Wine, Black Rose: CoS * Greyhawk: Tides of War
24 gold pieces is doled out to everyone.
Rohuzar seems happy to just keep looking for jobs. “I vill make run to guild hall to deposit their cut. They don’t post jobs there, really, but it is good to have face time with guild now and then if anyone is interested in joining me.”
Paladin - warforged - orange
Aubrey history: 19
Aubrey perception: 12
As they visit Universitas Vitae Aubrey is reminded of the golden days of House Goldentide back in Amnifortis. He has to be patient but his resolve to return his house to its former glory is strengthened. He walks the halls in silence.
"Splendid, perhaps the rest of us should take the afternoon off at the The Robust Hound Inn and Tavern, and perhaps take a new look at that notice board." Aubrey suggests to the others as Rohuzar leaves for the guild hall. "Perhaps it is time for us to go goblin or lizard-folk hunting?"
Guilim quickly shoves his coin away, frowning at the rather high rate that the redbrands continue to get from their work. He shrugs and quietly moves to return to the tavern to look over the board for other jobs that make good money.
Grugga bristles a bit at the doctor's last piece of advice, but he shakes it off - even the most educated empire folk are not immune to their typical short-sightedness, it seems. He considers debating the old man, but decides to leave him as a big fish in a small pond; Grugga will prove him wrong by continuing his holy work in the empire. So far, these last few days adventuring him have helped his cause more than the last month proselytizing in the city squares.
"I think we've earned a reprieve, haven't we? I'll join you all at the Hound. Leelan, are you still thinking about getting that hydra armor made? I think you should do it - it befits a monster expert like you."
Rohuzar:
Based on the team's earnings, and assuming you report it all as expected, the Red Band will be looking at a cut of 126gp, 2sp and 7cp.
There is a remainder then between what has been paid out to the men and what is due to be paid out to the guild. Based on my math there will be 9gp, 3sp left over.
Your Red Band Lieutenant, Falstaff, keeps an office in a room above the Chenoweth Hotel in the foreign quarter of Bardstown. He's intrigued to see you so soon.
Guilim:
It is a fat cut being taken by the Red Band. But this would also be putting a larger share in your pocket than your experience with the Hook & Axe back in Lordstown. The H&A paid a flat monthly salary to all of the mercenaries, regardless of what you were actually doing that month. So if you were out hunting goblins or on bandit patrol, and another fighter was back at home base doing weapons training - you both saw the same pay for that month. At least here, you're seeing a cut commensurate with the work you are performing.
Aubrey, Guilim, Leelan and Grugga return to the Robust Hound. The dinner rush is just picking up but you are able to find two adjacent tables inside and pull them together to sit. These are the last open seats inside and the tavern is buzzing with activity and conversation. A server you haven't seen before - a young and rather thin dwarf with a beard threaded with cork beads - introduces himself as Karloff and presents you with a small chalkboard with the evening's menu.
Wines
House Merlot: a house-made red wine with a bouquet that is buttery and full Glass 5sp, 8cp; Bottle 1gp, 7sp
Holy Dwarf Riesling: a finely made white wine that is described as powerful and rough Glass 1gp; Bottle 3gp
Beers
House Stout: A house-brewed dark stout, described as refreshing with an aftertaste of barley Pint 9cp; Huge Mug 3sp
Turtle King Amber Ale (chilled): copper-colored golden ale, described as a nutty golden ale with a hint of chocolate and a bitter finish, served ice cold somehow Pint 9sp, 9cp
Liquor
Hot Corn Spirit: clear and very harsh Shot 1sp
Top Hat Halfling Rum: decent rum, made from sugarcane Shot 4sp
Food:
Poached Lake Pike with potato cakes: 5sp
Vegetable Stew with beef stock: 2sp, 9cp
In place of the dwarf and elf minstrel duo from the last few evenings, a middle aged human man with a deep bronze complexion stands up on the raised patio, playing a horn. It is a deep, low sound played with a melancholy beat but not overpowering... it is just the right volume to set the mood without intruding on patron's conversations.
For those who investigate the notice board, there is only one new posting and some of the prior postings are now absent.
Postings in Common:
Wanted for questioning in a criminal matter. Reward is forfeit unless captured and delivered alive. Believed to be traveling in the region and will be using fake identity, likely traveling with other elves. Should be considered armed and dangerous. MUST BE BROUGHT IN ALIVE*. If captured, see the desk manager at the Monkfish Hotel in Bluffton.
*Or delivered within 3 days if killed during apprehension.
This poster depicts an unbelievably detailed likeness of a younger elven man with a wry smile. As you examine the image, it changes slightly showing the fugitive with different appearances; a thin beard and mustache; a shaved head; hair pulled up in a bun; clean shaven with a pony tail; etc. Whatever magic is woven into this poster, it is potent and leaves an impression on you. You feel you might have a hard time forgetting this face.
The Barony of Silvercreek has extended elevated bounty rewards for the following vermin:
Goblin – 2gp
Ogre – 20gp
The elevated bounty rewards shall remain in place through midsummer, or until such time as the numbers of these vermin are sufficiently culled.
Know all ye who read this: the good Lord Karo Viktoriia of the town of Dunmoore is hereby proffering the generous bounty of 300gp to any man who brings him the head of the monstrous lizard-man who hath these last months organised banditry and lawlessness upon the travelers of the Emperor’s highways. The fiend retreats with its lackeys ever into the Dunmoore marshes and is thought to lair theirin.
This poster includes a crude drawing of a grey-scaled lizard-folk with a large orange horn on his snout.
I am in need of a tracker who can pursue and defeat a renegade ranger. Said ranger was hired to escort a traveler returning to Bardstown from the northern trade roads. This ranger proceeded to murder the traveler and make off with a valuable item. The theft occurred two days ago on the roads northwest of town and the ranger is believed to be both capable and dangerous - he may have returned north or may still be local. Fee will depend on prompt recovery and discretion.
The note says to inquire with Esteban at the Rare Earth Materials building in Southbank for more details.
Postings in Elvish:
Postings in Dwarvish:
Looking to hire four capable swords. Travel required. Should not be more than 3-4 weeks. Details upon hire. Rate negotiable.
Postings in Old Imperial:
A slobbish boor has crossed all societal lines and needs to be put back in his place. Alas, I am ill-suited to the martial arts and require someone with a more blunt touch to deal with this blackguard. No killing – that would be illegal and I would be forced to report you to the authorities. But the ignorant sod must be taught a lesson. This is of critical urgency and I am prepared to pay to see the job done right. – Master Tobin Borghese
Required in volume. 100gp/liter. Inquire with Doctor Ignatius Della Rosa at the Universitas Vitae.
After you have all been seated for a few minutes, a cloaked and hooded figure approaches your table. He addresses you in Elvish:
"The innkeep tells me you are partners with the Orc Rohuzar. I am out of time. If your organization will help me with the bird woman I must know now, or I must depart. My ward will surely be growing distraught with how long I have already left him alone to care for the creature."
PC - Ethel - Human - Lvl 4 Necromancer - Undying Dragons * Serge Marshblade - Human - Lvl 5 Eldritch Knight - Hoard of the Dragon Queen
DM - (Homebrew) Heroes of Bardstown * Red Dead Annihilation: ToA * Where the Cold Winds Blow : DoIP * Covetous, Dragonish Thoughts: HotDQ * Red Wine, Black Rose: CoS * Greyhawk: Tides of War
Having gotten a taste for adventuring now Aubrey gives in to his curiosity and quickly checks the notice board as he enters the Robust Hound before taking a seat at their tables.
"There's a new job up. Someone wants help with tracking down a ranger who stole a valuable item. Sounds like it will take us north if we take it, but it seemed to be urgent." Aubrey says to anyone who not already read it. He then takes a quick look at the menu and orders Poached Lake Pike with a glass of Holy Dwarf Riesling from Karloff while enjoying the entertainment. As the cloaked man approaches them Aubrey likely recognizes the language as elvish but does not understand what the cloaked man says to them. Instead he tries to see the reactions of those who seem to do so.
Grugga orders the pike and a pint of house stout. He nods along to Aubrey's assessment of the job, "and urgent jobs, I suppose, necessarily bring better pay."
When the hooded man approaches, Grugga looks bewildered for a moment and then translates for his colleagues who can't understand, "This man wants a decision on whether we're taking the job to help with the 'bird woman'," he looks at his companions, "I vaguely remember Rohuzar telling us about this. Do we know if he had plans to take this job or not? He wants a decision now." he says, gesturing to the cloaked man with his head.
"Ask if he can wait for Rohuzar, the orc he spoke with earlier, he will be here soon, I think" Aubrey says to Grugga.
The man is indeed willing to wait, though perhaps misinterpreting your intentions he pulls up a seat and joins you at your table. As the time passes he thrums his fingers on the table top but does not initiate conversation.
PC - Ethel - Human - Lvl 4 Necromancer - Undying Dragons * Serge Marshblade - Human - Lvl 5 Eldritch Knight - Hoard of the Dragon Queen
DM - (Homebrew) Heroes of Bardstown * Red Dead Annihilation: ToA * Where the Cold Winds Blow : DoIP * Covetous, Dragonish Thoughts: HotDQ * Red Wine, Black Rose: CoS * Greyhawk: Tides of War
Red Brand HQ
Rohuzar will knock before going to see Lieutenant Falstaff. Upon entry (however long that takes), he’ll salute and provide a written report as well as itemized account of money earned and paid for all they’ve done so far.
“I have question before I return to vork, sir. Looking for information on Blue Crowns. You’ll see in my report there vas confrontation. They seem… unprofessional, but connected. Not looking to cause trouble, sir, but I should like advice of someone more experienced in guild matters.”
Robust Hound:
When Rohuzar returns to the inn, he recognizes the elf and his expression falls somewhat. In elvish:
“Sir, I cannot take this job. I looked for interested backer, and it failed. I’m sorry, but I must take paying jobs. Your current offer is just not enough.”
Paladin - warforged - orange
Rohuzar:
The office maintained by Falstaff reminds you a bit of the room maintained by Lady Shelley... if instead of books, art and scrolls, the walls were decorated with knives, maces, and animal hides. Maps are common to both, as Falstaff has several different maps of the region hanging from his walls. When you are shown into his office, Falstaff is at his desk, looking over reports with a dour expression on his face. He looks up at you with interest, which improves to an impish grin when you deliver your report and your coin.
"Hot damn. I knew you were going to pan out. Less than 3 days and you've already earned back more than the monthly stipend and the signing bonus we paid to your crew. That's the kind of initiative we're looking for right now." He rises from his desk and moves over to a low cabinet. As he reaches inside, you hear the rings on his fingers clinking against glass. "Ah. There she is." He returns with a small glass bottle filled with a brown liquor. He sets it in front of you on the desk. "For you and your team. Kindlewood Bourbon... finished in old brandy casques recovered from the first Amnifortis expeditions in 2091." He grins. "Consider it a bonus to celebrate mutual success. Don't let that go to waste now," he adds in case Rohuzar is not familiar with spirits. "That little bottle could easily fetch 12, maybe 15gp."
He considers for a moment more then looks at your hands. "Here. One more thing." He removes a ring from his hand and tosses it across the desk to you. It is a black steel ring with a ribbon of dark red gemstone, perhaps pyrope garnet. Though the elf pulled it off of his thumb, it looks like it would comfortably fit your ring finger. "Wear that with pride. We are recruiting aggressively right now and some of the teams we are fielding... frankly they leave a lot to be desired. But if you run into any other team leads or Lieutenants out in the field, they'll see that ring and know you're legit. Good work. I look forward to your next visit."
The 'Red Band Ring' is worth 5gp.
Back at the Robust Hound, the wild elf stiffens at Rohuzar's declination... then sags his shoulders. Without another word he rises from the table and departs out the tavern door. Karloff returns with Aubrey's and Grugga's drinks and to take any other orders.
PC - Ethel - Human - Lvl 4 Necromancer - Undying Dragons * Serge Marshblade - Human - Lvl 5 Eldritch Knight - Hoard of the Dragon Queen
DM - (Homebrew) Heroes of Bardstown * Red Dead Annihilation: ToA * Where the Cold Winds Blow : DoIP * Covetous, Dragonish Thoughts: HotDQ * Red Wine, Black Rose: CoS * Greyhawk: Tides of War