Pardot looks up, surprised to be asked a question, and swallows his food thinking of how to discuss the stars. He then quietly says, almost the point where you need to lean in to hear him, "I've usually heard of them called The Three Sisters, but yes, Warrior Women is as good a name as any. To understand the meaning you must look at the entire picture. The Sisters alone tell us little. But when they approach the Great Tree, for example, it generally portents a strong harvest, as the Sisters bring their strength to the growth of the plants."Then, having answered the question, goes back to his food, handing pieces of it to Pocket, who is always at his side, as they share a glance which almost indicates that he and his furry companion have just shared a joke.
Daventry glances at Pardot. "Right. Strong harvest when in the tree. That's... Well I'm not sure what that implies. But... What if something more... Terrestrial bears a mark of the Three Sisters?"
Daventry looks around at the others, then sighs. She rolls up her right sleeve. "Remember when I said my runic tome almost killed me? The first time I ever touched it... Well, when I woke up it had seared this into me."
She reveals an intricate brand on her right arm, just below the shoulder. The skin underneath the brand is raised slightly, and the brand almost looks tattoo'd with light blue ink. It forms a delicate and stylized representation of the stars forming the sword and arm of one of the Warrior Women, bright points connected by curving lines on her skin.
"Yes, well, I´m just a novice really but I belive I have mastered a spell that creates a pocket plane, albeit a very small and temporary one." Ludolf says, trying his best to practice humility. "Just tell me where you are conducting your research and I will come by with these tomes Triäsa." Ludolf adds, seemingly glad for Triäsas appreciation of his offer.
"No I'm afraid I'm researching a very particular plane called the Far Realm,...or is that what you meant Triäsa." Ludolf finishes awkwardly as he realizes he might have come off as patronizing once again. "Anyway, I would very much like to see what you found Triäsa, and whether it turns out to be pertinent to my reasearch or not I appreciate your concern, a lot" He says with a sincere smile, quickly trying to smooth things over.
"What other murders?" Ludolf blurts out to Triäsa before calming down again. "I mean...I must have missed the news bulletin on this. Please tell me what you know."He adds.
Ludolf feels a little awkward again as Daventry shows that much naked skin. "Yes, yes, very interesting." he says while diverting his eyes. Arcana to recall anything relevant regarding what Daventry just displayed: 10
As you all continue your meal and conversation you all notice a familiar bouncing head of short blonde hair walk out of a door overlooking the main dining hall of the hearth. Fembris has not been around since that first day but as she looks down and spots you all she gives a big toothy smile and waves at you all emphatically. She quickly skips down the stairs and weaves through the crowd to your table. Seeing no open chairs she continues on to the next table and mightily pushes a chair over toward you all right next to Ludolf.
She climbs up on the chair again standing on the seat and says, "Ah! Friends! Such a long time and you all are quite the talk of the Keep! Saving the day like hero's your first night here! It's rather fortunate to find you here, you will NEVER guess who I was just talking to... None other than the great dragonborn and First Reader himself Bookwyrm!" While you have come to know Fembris as excitable this is a bit much for even her. "Well, HE asked ME to find YOU because HE heard I know YOU and HE wants to talk to YOU! How great is that?!" People are starting to look in her direction as the volume of her voice continues to climb and the volume is starting to rival that of the music in the hall.
"Oh no" Ludolf mutters and sighs as he sees Febris' bouncing head making it's way in their direction. He moves his chair a little bit away from her as she climbs up beside him. He is still, however making an effort to smile as she starts talking. As the Bookwyrm is mentioned Ludolf gets more interested. "Yes well thank you for that Fembris, we all heard you quite well, and so did the rest of the patrons of this place it seems."Ludolfs says dryly. "Now where can we find this Bookwyrm?" He asks impatiently.
"Heya, Fembris! The First Reader?" Daventry whistles, rolling her sleeve back down. "Certainly not what I'd expect for us, but I'm not complainin'. Any idea what he wants to see us about?"
"Ah, yes I forgot you all are still very new here despite having such a reputation already... I mean not that people are talking about you... I mean they are... but it's good.. mostly..." She looks around nervously obviously uncomfortable with her own ramblings. You feel like her gaze falls on Triäsa more than the rest of you. "The First Reader is very important, kind of a second in command to the Keeper in Tomes. His main job is to expand the library's knowledge and it's resources. Acquire new works and all that. I just met with him upstairs had no idea you were here!! Saved me alot of trouble really. He is going to be so impressed with how fast I got you to see him! As far as what he wants I am sure it has to do with the place you found Matreous but he didn't really say anything more."
Klin you look to your right and notice there is a new book sitting next to you. You can see the title Mazfroth’s Mighty Digressions it is seven inches wide and nine inches tall. It has a brown leather cover is worn from time and use. It is not yours and was definitely not there a few moments ago.
Group Perception Checks:
Daventry: 7
Klin: 6
Ludolf: 13
Pardot: 17
Triäsa: 5
As you look around for something or someone that might have left the book none of you see anything out of the ordinary. Well there is an ogre in the corner reading a book but he is there a lot...
Triäsa looks fascinated by Ludolf's ability with pocket planes. "You'll have to show me. Perhaps teach me! You did say something about 'teaching' me things when we first met. I hope this was the sort of thing you meant." She looks at him with a raised brow and a small grin as she says it.
When he says 'Far Realm' she gets an embarrassed look. "Yes, yes, 'Far Realm', that's what I said." She sounds a little agitated, though it passes quite quickly.
She catches Daventry showing a tatoo or something out of the corner of her eye. She is fascinated and wants to jump over to see it. But she sees the woman's discomfort, and though it's a struggle, she keeps her attention fixed on her conversation with Ludolf. She can't help but notice he's trying hard to not appear to be looking at the woman.
She clears her throat, trying to make sure she has Ludolf's attention. "Well, evidently there had been a pair of supernatural murders here..."
And then Fembris bursts into the scene and she watches with amusement. Although, when Ludolf backs his chair away a bit he comes much closer to Triäsa. She then scoots her chair away just a tiny bit as well.
As Fembris finishes, she stands."Well let's go! This will be great to meet the First Reader!"
"Well yes, teach you the secrets of how to reach the Far Realm and other dimensions, what else would it be?" Ludolf says confused, seemingly not understanding what Triäsa is implying.
As they depart for the Bookwyrm, Ludolf grabs Mazfroth’s Mighty Digressions unless claimed by someone else,and puts it in his shoulderbag for later studies. Ludolf then follows Fembris to the Wyrmspeaker upstairs. "You must tell me more of these murders Triäsa, it is important, strange things are happening within Candlekeep." Ludolf says to the half-elven bard on their way there.
Triäsa seemed noticeably uncomfortable when Fembris had mentioned people talking about the group and it was good 'mostly'. She was quite sure the gnome was staring straight at her at that point. But she quickly let that go, returning to a happy smile at the news of meeting Bookwyrm.
As folks are getting ready to go, she responds to Ludolf. "Yes, I've spoken with a number of people around the place that have mentioned it. Two scholars killed in the last two months. Just drained of their life they said."
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
"You must be careful then, who knows who could be the next victim of this dreadful stalker." Ludolf says to Triäsa and Daventry. Ludolf ponders what creatures could have sneaked up and drained these scholars of their life. Arcana:10
"Well I did not actually see any of them. And those I spoke with had not directly seen them either. I heard it was just supernatural - their life force had been sucked out. No outward signs of wounds or anything," Triäsa says.
To Daventry she adds, "Nobody seemed to have details on who exactly it was. It seems like there are not all that many folks that get to know the visitors here. Pretty easy for an absence to go undetected."
Looking to Daventry Pardot notices the clear similarities in the star brand and says quietly, "I've not heard of the Stars branding a person before. Though perhaps you'll find some of the Sisters' strength that you can use. How interesting."
He then is generally quiet as their party is approached, and spends his time simply watching and listening the others to learn about this First Reader.
Ludolf -- you would know there are many creatures that possess the ability to drain life. Most of those are undead such as wrights, liches and wraiths. Others such as vampires can also do it but they typically need to inflict some sort of physical injury as well. You would also guess there are innumerable magical/arcane methods that could be used to achieve a similar effect and with what you currently know it is rather hard to narrow the possibilities down.
Fembris leads the group of you up the wooden stairs to the balcony that over looks the main hall below. You walk around a short distance to the door she had exited from a moment ago. Before entering she pulls herself up as tall as she can, runs her hands down her robes to remove any wrinkles and quickly fixes her hair. She takes a deep breath in and you hear her whisper to herself, "You got this Fembris no need to be nervous just the second most important person in all of Candlekeep...." With that she confidently opens the door.
Proudly, she walks into what appears to be yet another pocket dimension. This one outfitted as a large and ornate study. The room has deep cherry floors with an ornate golden rug. The center of the rug is an huge cherry desk with large wing back chair. The room is dimly lit but candles scatter along the walls as well as an ornate golden chandelier. There stacks upon stacks upon stacks of books. The room has a unique odor some mixture of freshly cut wood, incense and expensive alcohol.
Behind the desk sits an old Green Dragonborn. He wears deep blue robes with a gold trim and on his snout he wears small round spectacles with a gold chain that wraps loosely around his neck. When Fembris enters he looks up from his book and notes; smiling a big toothy grin as he stands, "Ah Fembris you continue to impress with your work. I should be careful or perhaps you will take my position before I am ready to give it to you." He jests in a deep voice that time and age have weakened. Fembris blushes and tries her best to maintain her composure.
The Dragonborn continues, "Welcome to Candlekeep dear Seekers. Those around here call me Bookwyrm and I have the honor to be the First Reader of Candlekeep. I have been here many many years and I can not recall a group that had such a.... productive.... first night as you all. Thank you once again."He takes a drink of some dark liquid and continues, "But as you have probably guessed I have not called you here to sing your praises. I have been tasked with a number of responsibilities. One of them is protecting both Avowed and Seekers while they are here. We are actively investigating the Mansion you all uncovered and have dedicated most of meager resources to that task. It is a rather remarkable place..."
He seems to lose himself in thought for a moment before returning to his speech. "Unfortunately, there have been a few other incidents lately that we have not been able to adequately address and I would like to enlist your help. You have proven yourselves quite capable. I want you to understand this a very unusual circumstance and as far as I can tell the Keep has never needed to ask Seekers or adventurers to solve problems but frankly we don't have a lot problems. If you can promise me some discretion and you will help with our.... mystery... I am willing to compensate you all for your time as well as extend your stay in the keep substantially to make up for any lost time while you are investigating."He lets you ponder this before concluding. "Obviously you do not need to feel obligated to help I would never force you to do so but I think this could be a very productive relationship. I am sure you have questions and I will answer them but no details on the 'problem' until you agree to help. So, what say you?"
Daventry nods to the man in greeting. "A pleasure, Bookwyrm. Twas certainly unexpected, our first night in Candlekeep, and I'm glad we did some good that night. While I'll let my friends decide their own path, I know my own... studies, if you will... have not found their end just yet, nor am I wantin' to be scuttled back to Baldur's Gate anytime soon. It's a good thing we've got goin' on, here, and it's nice to sleep without a knife pressed in my back."
She pats her rapier's hilt. "So you've my blade and my wit, for as keen as either might be."
The young bard steps forward as she introduces herself. "My name is Triäsa Galadon, from the University of Silverymoon and a member of the College of Fochlucan. It is a great honor and pleasure to meet you First Reader Bookwyrm. It would be my privilege to provide whatever service is within my power to assist Candlekeep." She gives the dragonborn a smile. "However, I do think a bit more information is in order. Your offer appears generous, and I do not doubt Candlekeeps' magnanimity after our previous reward, which was given without any obligation to do so. But I must ask, just how much additional time would you allow us at Candlekeep, and just what is the compensation for our time?"
She pauses, looking back at the rest of the group, then back to the First Reader. "Given the danger, I am sure you understand that we would want to be assured a just reward. In addition to the compensation, given our discretion and service to this grand library, I would think perhaps you could grant us mere Seekers the rare glimpse of what lies beyond the Emerald Door. Of course we would acquiesce to any requirements, necessary chaperones, or other rules as you might see fit."
Over the last few days here, Pardot, though still often off on his own, or with Pocket, has been opening up a lot. Being back in 'civilization' as it were, is bringing the social halfling out of him more and more. After listening carefully to the Dragonborn's request, he says simply with a grin, "I'd love to help and to hear more. Though perhaps a drink while we listen would help our understanding?"
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
As they enter the pocket plane of the First Reader Ludolf at first studies his surroundings intently, while listening to the Fembris, the Bookwyrm and the responses of his associates. As Triäsa mentions the request regarding entry beyond the emerald door he nods and smiles briefly. "Yes, an arrangement for us to be able to enter the grand library would also most likely help us immensely with the task of solving your mystery, something like probationary Avowed if you'd like. We all have the greatest respect for your traditions but desperate times would call for desperate measures First Reader." He says in a sincere tone, his piercing grey eyes looking into the Bookwyrms. Persuasion to help Triäsa, and the others to get access to the library:12 "But where are my manners. I am Ludolf Crowley, from Luskan. It is an honor to be here and I am confident that we will be able to solve this mystery for you First Reader" He adds with a slight bow, trying not to make it too obvious that he is very pleased with the prospect of working together with the others again.
Daventry glances at Pardot. "Right. Strong harvest when in the tree. That's... Well I'm not sure what that implies. But... What if something more... Terrestrial bears a mark of the Three Sisters?"
Daventry looks around at the others, then sighs. She rolls up her right sleeve. "Remember when I said my runic tome almost killed me? The first time I ever touched it... Well, when I woke up it had seared this into me."
She reveals an intricate brand on her right arm, just below the shoulder. The skin underneath the brand is raised slightly, and the brand almost looks tattoo'd with light blue ink. It forms a delicate and stylized representation of the stars forming the sword and arm of one of the Warrior Women, bright points connected by curving lines on her skin.
Aldrik Reinholdt in Dragon Heist
Daventry in The Candlekeep Mysteries, and her bag
"Yes, well, I´m just a novice really but I belive I have mastered a spell that creates a pocket plane, albeit a very small and temporary one." Ludolf says, trying his best to practice humility. "Just tell me where you are conducting your research and I will come by with these tomes Triäsa." Ludolf adds, seemingly glad for Triäsas appreciation of his offer.
"No I'm afraid I'm researching a very particular plane called the Far Realm,...or is that what you meant Triäsa." Ludolf finishes awkwardly as he realizes he might have come off as patronizing once again. "Anyway, I would very much like to see what you found Triäsa, and whether it turns out to be pertinent to my reasearch or not I appreciate your concern, a lot" He says with a sincere smile, quickly trying to smooth things over.
"What other murders?" Ludolf blurts out to Triäsa before calming down again. "I mean...I must have missed the news bulletin on this. Please tell me what you know." He adds.
Ludolf feels a little awkward again as Daventry shows that much naked skin. "Yes, yes, very interesting." he says while diverting his eyes.
Arcana to recall anything relevant regarding what Daventry just displayed: 10
As you all continue your meal and conversation you all notice a familiar bouncing head of short blonde hair walk out of a door overlooking the main dining hall of the hearth. Fembris has not been around since that first day but as she looks down and spots you all she gives a big toothy smile and waves at you all emphatically. She quickly skips down the stairs and weaves through the crowd to your table. Seeing no open chairs she continues on to the next table and mightily pushes a chair over toward you all right next to Ludolf.
She climbs up on the chair again standing on the seat and says, "Ah! Friends! Such a long time and you all are quite the talk of the Keep! Saving the day like hero's your first night here! It's rather fortunate to find you here, you will NEVER guess who I was just talking to... None other than the great dragonborn and First Reader himself Bookwyrm!" While you have come to know Fembris as excitable this is a bit much for even her. "Well, HE asked ME to find YOU because HE heard I know YOU and HE wants to talk to YOU! How great is that?!" People are starting to look in her direction as the volume of her voice continues to climb and the volume is starting to rival that of the music in the hall.
DM -- The Candlekeep Mysteries 1 & 2 Discord PCs -- Christian Dembele Forum PCs -- Edryd Breckon, Fizzlebit Forton Thornberry the Fourth
"Oh no" Ludolf mutters and sighs as he sees Febris' bouncing head making it's way in their direction. He moves his chair a little bit away from her as she climbs up beside him. He is still, however making an effort to smile as she starts talking. As the Bookwyrm is mentioned Ludolf gets more interested. "Yes well thank you for that Fembris, we all heard you quite well, and so did the rest of the patrons of this place it seems." Ludolfs says dryly. "Now where can we find this Bookwyrm?" He asks impatiently.
"Heya, Fembris! The First Reader?" Daventry whistles, rolling her sleeve back down. "Certainly not what I'd expect for us, but I'm not complainin'. Any idea what he wants to see us about?"
Aldrik Reinholdt in Dragon Heist
Daventry in The Candlekeep Mysteries, and her bag
"Ah, yes I forgot you all are still very new here despite having such a reputation already... I mean not that people are talking about you... I mean they are... but it's good.. mostly..." She looks around nervously obviously uncomfortable with her own ramblings. You feel like her gaze falls on Triäsa more than the rest of you. "The First Reader is very important, kind of a second in command to the Keeper in Tomes. His main job is to expand the library's knowledge and it's resources. Acquire new works and all that. I just met with him upstairs had no idea you were here!! Saved me alot of trouble really. He is going to be so impressed with how fast I got you to see him! As far as what he wants I am sure it has to do with the place you found Matreous but he didn't really say anything more."
Klin you look to your right and notice there is a new book sitting next to you. You can see the title Mazfroth’s Mighty Digressions it is seven inches wide and nine inches tall. It has a brown leather cover is worn from time and use. It is not yours and was definitely not there a few moments ago.
Group Perception Checks:
As you look around for something or someone that might have left the book none of you see anything out of the ordinary. Well there is an ogre in the corner reading a book but he is there a lot...
DM -- The Candlekeep Mysteries 1 & 2 Discord PCs -- Christian Dembele Forum PCs -- Edryd Breckon, Fizzlebit Forton Thornberry the Fourth
Triäsa looks fascinated by Ludolf's ability with pocket planes. "You'll have to show me. Perhaps teach me! You did say something about 'teaching' me things when we first met. I hope this was the sort of thing you meant." She looks at him with a raised brow and a small grin as she says it.
When he says 'Far Realm' she gets an embarrassed look. "Yes, yes, 'Far Realm', that's what I said." She sounds a little agitated, though it passes quite quickly.
She catches Daventry showing a tatoo or something out of the corner of her eye. She is fascinated and wants to jump over to see it. But she sees the woman's discomfort, and though it's a struggle, she keeps her attention fixed on her conversation with Ludolf. She can't help but notice he's trying hard to not appear to be looking at the woman.
She clears her throat, trying to make sure she has Ludolf's attention. "Well, evidently there had been a pair of supernatural murders here..."
And then Fembris bursts into the scene and she watches with amusement. Although, when Ludolf backs his chair away a bit he comes much closer to Triäsa. She then scoots her chair away just a tiny bit as well.
As Fembris finishes, she stands. "Well let's go! This will be great to meet the First Reader!"
Rabbit Sebrica, Sorcerer || Skarai, Monk || Lokilia Vaelphin, Druid || Liivi Orav, Barbarian || Vanizi, Warlock || Britari / Halila Talgeta / Jesa Gumovi || Neital Rhessil, Wizard
Iromae Quinaea, Cleric || Roxana Raincrest, Rogue || Meira Dheran, Rogue || Qirynna Thadri, Wizard || Crisaryn Melkial, Sorcerer
"Well yes, teach you the secrets of how to reach the Far Realm and other dimensions, what else would it be?" Ludolf says confused, seemingly not understanding what Triäsa is implying.
As they depart for the Bookwyrm, Ludolf grabs Mazfroth’s Mighty Digressions unless claimed by someone else, and puts it in his shoulderbag for later studies. Ludolf then follows Fembris to the Wyrmspeaker upstairs. "You must tell me more of these murders Triäsa, it is important, strange things are happening within Candlekeep." Ludolf says to the half-elven bard on their way there.
Triäsa seemed noticeably uncomfortable when Fembris had mentioned people talking about the group and it was good 'mostly'. She was quite sure the gnome was staring straight at her at that point. But she quickly let that go, returning to a happy smile at the news of meeting Bookwyrm.
As folks are getting ready to go, she responds to Ludolf. "Yes, I've spoken with a number of people around the place that have mentioned it. Two scholars killed in the last two months. Just drained of their life they said."
Rabbit Sebrica, Sorcerer || Skarai, Monk || Lokilia Vaelphin, Druid || Liivi Orav, Barbarian || Vanizi, Warlock || Britari / Halila Talgeta / Jesa Gumovi || Neital Rhessil, Wizard
Iromae Quinaea, Cleric || Roxana Raincrest, Rogue || Meira Dheran, Rogue || Qirynna Thadri, Wizard || Crisaryn Melkial, Sorcerer
"Drained, like how?" Daventry asks. "Like, shriveled up husk? Dead asleep at a desk? And are we talking Avowed or Seekers?"
Aldrik Reinholdt in Dragon Heist
Daventry in The Candlekeep Mysteries, and her bag
"You must be careful then, who knows who could be the next victim of this dreadful stalker." Ludolf says to Triäsa and Daventry.
Ludolf ponders what creatures could have sneaked up and drained these scholars of their life. Arcana:10
"Well I did not actually see any of them. And those I spoke with had not directly seen them either. I heard it was just supernatural - their life force had been sucked out. No outward signs of wounds or anything," Triäsa says.
To Daventry she adds, "Nobody seemed to have details on who exactly it was. It seems like there are not all that many folks that get to know the visitors here. Pretty easy for an absence to go undetected."
Rabbit Sebrica, Sorcerer || Skarai, Monk || Lokilia Vaelphin, Druid || Liivi Orav, Barbarian || Vanizi, Warlock || Britari / Halila Talgeta / Jesa Gumovi || Neital Rhessil, Wizard
Iromae Quinaea, Cleric || Roxana Raincrest, Rogue || Meira Dheran, Rogue || Qirynna Thadri, Wizard || Crisaryn Melkial, Sorcerer
Looking to Daventry Pardot notices the clear similarities in the star brand and says quietly, "I've not heard of the Stars branding a person before. Though perhaps you'll find some of the Sisters' strength that you can use. How interesting."
He then is generally quiet as their party is approached, and spends his time simply watching and listening the others to learn about this First Reader.
PbP 🎲: Tyekanik; Moneo Noree; Korba Muris; & occasional DM:
Ludolf -- you would know there are many creatures that possess the ability to drain life. Most of those are undead such as wrights, liches and wraiths. Others such as vampires can also do it but they typically need to inflict some sort of physical injury as well. You would also guess there are innumerable magical/arcane methods that could be used to achieve a similar effect and with what you currently know it is rather hard to narrow the possibilities down.
Fembris leads the group of you up the wooden stairs to the balcony that over looks the main hall below. You walk around a short distance to the door she had exited from a moment ago. Before entering she pulls herself up as tall as she can, runs her hands down her robes to remove any wrinkles and quickly fixes her hair. She takes a deep breath in and you hear her whisper to herself, "You got this Fembris no need to be nervous just the second most important person in all of Candlekeep...." With that she confidently opens the door.
Proudly, she walks into what appears to be yet another pocket dimension. This one outfitted as a large and ornate study. The room has deep cherry floors with an ornate golden rug. The center of the rug is an huge cherry desk with large wing back chair. The room is dimly lit but candles scatter along the walls as well as an ornate golden chandelier. There stacks upon stacks upon stacks of books. The room has a unique odor some mixture of freshly cut wood, incense and expensive alcohol.
Behind the desk sits an old Green Dragonborn. He wears deep blue robes with a gold trim and on his snout he wears small round spectacles with a gold chain that wraps loosely around his neck. When Fembris enters he looks up from his book and notes; smiling a big toothy grin as he stands, "Ah Fembris you continue to impress with your work. I should be careful or perhaps you will take my position before I am ready to give it to you." He jests in a deep voice that time and age have weakened. Fembris blushes and tries her best to maintain her composure.
The Dragonborn continues, "Welcome to Candlekeep dear Seekers. Those around here call me Bookwyrm and I have the honor to be the First Reader of Candlekeep. I have been here many many years and I can not recall a group that had such a.... productive.... first night as you all. Thank you once again." He takes a drink of some dark liquid and continues, "But as you have probably guessed I have not called you here to sing your praises. I have been tasked with a number of responsibilities. One of them is protecting both Avowed and Seekers while they are here. We are actively investigating the Mansion you all uncovered and have dedicated most of meager resources to that task. It is a rather remarkable place..."
He seems to lose himself in thought for a moment before returning to his speech. "Unfortunately, there have been a few other incidents lately that we have not been able to adequately address and I would like to enlist your help. You have proven yourselves quite capable. I want you to understand this a very unusual circumstance and as far as I can tell the Keep has never needed to ask Seekers or adventurers to solve problems but frankly we don't have a lot problems. If you can promise me some discretion and you will help with our.... mystery... I am willing to compensate you all for your time as well as extend your stay in the keep substantially to make up for any lost time while you are investigating." He lets you ponder this before concluding. "Obviously you do not need to feel obligated to help I would never force you to do so but I think this could be a very productive relationship. I am sure you have questions and I will answer them but no details on the 'problem' until you agree to help. So, what say you?"
DM -- The Candlekeep Mysteries 1 & 2 Discord PCs -- Christian Dembele Forum PCs -- Edryd Breckon, Fizzlebit Forton Thornberry the Fourth
Daventry nods to the man in greeting. "A pleasure, Bookwyrm. Twas certainly unexpected, our first night in Candlekeep, and I'm glad we did some good that night. While I'll let my friends decide their own path, I know my own... studies, if you will... have not found their end just yet, nor am I wantin' to be scuttled back to Baldur's Gate anytime soon. It's a good thing we've got goin' on, here, and it's nice to sleep without a knife pressed in my back."
She pats her rapier's hilt. "So you've my blade and my wit, for as keen as either might be."
Aldrik Reinholdt in Dragon Heist
Daventry in The Candlekeep Mysteries, and her bag
The young bard steps forward as she introduces herself. "My name is Triäsa Galadon, from the University of Silverymoon and a member of the College of Fochlucan. It is a great honor and pleasure to meet you First Reader Bookwyrm. It would be my privilege to provide whatever service is within my power to assist Candlekeep." She gives the dragonborn a smile. "However, I do think a bit more information is in order. Your offer appears generous, and I do not doubt Candlekeeps' magnanimity after our previous reward, which was given without any obligation to do so. But I must ask, just how much additional time would you allow us at Candlekeep, and just what is the compensation for our time?"
She pauses, looking back at the rest of the group, then back to the First Reader. "Given the danger, I am sure you understand that we would want to be assured a just reward. In addition to the compensation, given our discretion and service to this grand library, I would think perhaps you could grant us mere Seekers the rare glimpse of what lies beyond the Emerald Door. Of course we would acquiesce to any requirements, necessary chaperones, or other rules as you might see fit."
(Persuasion: 9)
Rabbit Sebrica, Sorcerer || Skarai, Monk || Lokilia Vaelphin, Druid || Liivi Orav, Barbarian || Vanizi, Warlock || Britari / Halila Talgeta / Jesa Gumovi || Neital Rhessil, Wizard
Iromae Quinaea, Cleric || Roxana Raincrest, Rogue || Meira Dheran, Rogue || Qirynna Thadri, Wizard || Crisaryn Melkial, Sorcerer
Over the last few days here, Pardot, though still often off on his own, or with Pocket, has been opening up a lot. Being back in 'civilization' as it were, is bringing the social halfling out of him more and more. After listening carefully to the Dragonborn's request, he says simply with a grin, "I'd love to help and to hear more. Though perhaps a drink while we listen would help our understanding?"
PbP 🎲: Tyekanik; Moneo Noree; Korba Muris; & occasional DM:
As they enter the pocket plane of the First Reader Ludolf at first studies his surroundings intently, while listening to the Fembris, the Bookwyrm and the responses of his associates. As Triäsa mentions the request regarding entry beyond the emerald door he nods and smiles briefly. "Yes, an arrangement for us to be able to enter the grand library would also most likely help us immensely with the task of solving your mystery, something like probationary Avowed if you'd like. We all have the greatest respect for your traditions but desperate times would call for desperate measures First Reader." He says in a sincere tone, his piercing grey eyes looking into the Bookwyrms.
Persuasion to help Triäsa, and the others to get access to the library:12
"But where are my manners. I am Ludolf Crowley, from Luskan. It is an honor to be here and I am confident that we will be able to solve this mystery for you First Reader" He adds with a slight bow, trying not to make it too obvious that he is very pleased with the prospect of working together with the others again.