Finn rushes after the tipsy woman as she turns to leave. "Sally? Sally Struthers?" he asks as his left hand gently touches upon her shoulder. Even as he does so his right hand surreptitiously dips in and out of her handbag, taking what he can.
"Oh, sorry," he says in his best apologetic manner. "Thought you were someone else... Forgive me, please." That said he bows and backs away down the steps and back into the crowd.
Feeling elated at being admitted with all the grown-ups, Yeshil descends into the tavern area with the others. She looks around, smiling broadly at the rowdy gamblers, peering curiously over punters' shoulders at their hands of cards. The young woman bites her lower lip and begins to walk over toward the bar... she sees that Tylaerys is moving directly down to the next level and turns to follow... but then changes her mind again and hurries back to the bar. Her head and shoulders barely clear the bartop, but she calls up breathlessly to the bartender:
Um... hello? I'd like a drink please. I don't know which... Maybe that one!And points to the most brightly-colored cocktail on offer.
If served, she will take her prize and follow after Tylaerys.
(Not sure if there is a menu or list or display, but Yeshil will make a choice one way or another)
Bowl: 2sp (Served in a bowl so it's more like a meal!)
Liquor
Black Lime Gin
Cup: 1sp
Tall Cup (with water) 2sp
Big Bad Ogre Rum
Cup: 2cp
Fire Snake Whiskey
Cup: 5cp
Tall Cup (with water) 1sp
Bilge Juice (a red mixture of various liquors and juices)
Cup 2sp
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
You deftly reach into the purse and grasp an expensive-feeling necklace.
The woman seems none the wiser as she continues up the stairs, and you slip back into the crowd to assess your prize.
Curiously, the necklace seems to be made of simple iron, with a red enameled cross hanging from the end. Probably not very valuable at all.
Make a CHARISMA save, DC 18, please.
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
Tylaerys, Jararaka, Jireland Yeshil[with her chosen drink]descend to the Lounge level on the ship.
This tavern lounge fills this entire deck and is lit by oil lanterns hanging from the 8-foot-high ceiling by 1-foot-long chains. The windowless deck contains another bar, couches, coffee tables, and tables where patrons can socialize and gamble. Three of the Low Lantern's bouncers stand in plain view across the deck. Though this level isn't quite as busy, it is darker and smells just as bad, with no windows and little air flow.
The bar here is tended by yet another Kenku.
At the aft-side of the Lounge deck, there seems to be a small, private party. A well dressed, handsome human man is holding court. He has turned a pair of couches and a coffee table there into a more intimate space, and one of the bouncers is keeping out uninvited guests. The handsome man sits on the starboard couch, his feet on the table and his eyes moving between the room, and the elven couple sitting across from him on the port-side couch. But your eyes are drawn instead to the small fiend, a spined devil, perched on the back of the handsome man's couch.
Around the rest of the room, small groups drink and smoke and engage is quieter games of chance than those on the deck above. A bard, in green jacket with white frills, is warming up his lute in the corner.
At a table near the stairs, you spot your host at last; the enigmatic wizard and author Volothamp Geddarm. He is dressed in his trademark violet beret, and is engaged in conversation with three others at his table; an out of place and nervous looking common human man, a smiling and well-dressed Human man, and a dark-haired and darker-eyed young Human sorceress.
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
As you ponder what worthless trinket you just wasted your time on, there is a sudden and peculiar feeling. It is as if a bubble forms around you, insulating and isolating you from the tavern around you. The sound fades away, and the color drains from the room around you.
A voice, atonal and genderless, emanates from the necklace. If anyone around you can hear it, they do not react.
Greetings, stranger. If you're receiving this message, then my little honey-pot worked as predicted.
Earlier today, you were seen picking pockets in the Wide. You're not one of us. The Guild can't have unsanctioned privateers shearing our flock. You're indirectly stealing from us, you understand.
In the old days, we would have cut off your index fingers and thumbs as an example. Or just slit your throat and dumped you in the harbor, if we were busy. But these days, we're trying to turn over a new leaf. A kinder, gentler Guild, as it were. So you're in luck.
Here is how this is going to play out. You are now the proud owner of a brand new, delicious and particularly specific curse. One that will ensure you don't cause the Guild any more trouble with your sticky fingers. Congratulations.
You have yourself a couple of options... either show up at the Statue of Minsc in the Wide tonight, alone, with everything you stole today along with penalty interest. Let's call it... an extra 25gp. Do that and we will lift the curse and put this whole silly misunderstanding behind us.
Option two: you carry this curse forever and find yourself a new line of work, or a prison cell somewhere.
You get to make the call, Friendo.
Just then, the 'bubble' around you seems to pop, and the sounds and smells of the Low Lantern return. Up the stairs, you see the well-dressed woman look back, briefly. There is no malice in her expression, just the calm look of a professional making sure the job is done. Then, she continues away on the top deck, out of sight.
Standing there in the tavern, you don't feel any different. Maybe this was just a trick to scare you?
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
With a thought and a little magical effort, Misses Binklesworth is summoned back into form and instructed to follow the woman and find out where she sleeps...
Then Finn takes a moment to consider his options. Well, he doesn't really have any, does he? He certainly wasn't showing up at no Minsc statue and letting such nefarious types have a free shot at him. Besides, if he had 25 gold to throw away he wouldn't have been trying to pilfer more, he'd have won it fair and square by cheating at cards. That decided he chuckles and heads down into the ship/tavern... Hopefully the weird wizard at least is buying tonight.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
The young blonde half-elf shudders briefly with disgust as she spots the spined infernal creature, quickly averting her silvery eyes. She had heard the rumours of Baldur's Gate being a home for those making pacts with devils but she didn't expect to see one openly displayed, even in a sordid place like this one. She makes a mental note of the appearance of the handsome man holding court, most likely one of the city's more corrupted patriars.
Tylaerys is relieved to finally spot Mr. Volothamp, turning to motion for the others to follow her as she makes her way over to his table. "Nice to meet you again Mr. Volo." She says with a charming smile that she shares with the other seated at the table, waiting for Volo to introduce them to each other and offer them all a seat.
Persuasion to make a good first impression: 24 Insight to discern more about the people at the table: 21
Yeshil follows downstairs, clutching her bright-red Bilge Juice. Her first few sips cause her to choke and splutter, but she presses on with determination and by the time she reaches Volo's table the first-time drinker has swigged almost half the cup. She waves a greeting and smiles at the other patrons at the table, but hangs back quietly (on the aft side of the table, closest to the bar) as introductions are made.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
At Tylaerys' introduction, Volopauses a beat, thinking. Then he snaps his fingers. "That is where those other tickets went. Of course." He rises from his seat and fetches a couple of nearby chairs to make enough room at his table. "Please... please... join us."
"Friends," he says [addressing those seated at the table] "Allow me to introduce some young women once-accused but entirely innocent of my attempted kidnapping the other day. Their names escape me at the moment but as I recall they are on an exciting quest of some sort that should make for enchanting conversation."
[Yeshil, go ahead and make a CON save, DC12.]
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
The young blonde half-elf pouts briefly as she is introduced in a less than gallant way but quickly takes on a pleasant smile again as she takes seat at the table, charmingly looking around at the others. "I must admit I wasn't aware we were accused of any kidnapping attempts. If you refer to our meeting the other day it must have been a misunderstanding. We are indeed on an exciting quest though. My name is Tylaerys and this is Jirel, Yeshil and Jararaka." She says, motioning to her present companions, then looking curiously at Volo's friends, expecting them to introduce themselves.
(Did the insight on the others at the table give anything at all? :-)
Finn squeezes his way through the crowd and down into the ship looking for the others. His eyes linger long upon the gaming tables but with just six copper to his name he must, alas, restrain himself for now. As he weaves through the crowd he considers the iron necklace with the red enameled cross. He wonders if perhaps it is Jirel's style. She seems like she may appreciate style and craftsmanship over value and the rarity of the metal it is crafted in... But Finn quickly shakes that thought out of his head. There could be a spell or enchantment upon the thing beyond what he's already triggered and he'll be damned if he blindly passes that off to Jirel. And it is with that thought that he grabs a drink off the tray of a passing waitress and drops the necklace upon it in exchange. He uses Minor Illusion to make the jewelry look more valuable than it is... at least long enough for the exchange to be made.
Soon enough he catches up with the others, spotting them gathered around a table as they are being offered seats. "There you are," he says to Yeshil, giving he a small bump to get her attention. "Who's these folk?" He notices the kid with a drink in her hand and he widens his eyes and makes it clear that he notices... But then he smiles and shrugs to show it's fine. She's not his kid, after all...
Yeshil looks up at Finn with a broad smile and flushed cheeks as she answers his question: That's Volo, silly! I don't know who the others... oh, what's that drink you've got? Is that the ogre one? She continues to smile at Finn for a few uncomfortable seconds before turning her attention back to the table conversation.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
This drink isn't bad. It sort of tastes like someone poured a bunch of juice into a hollowed-out potato, set it on fire, then poured it into your cup, but otherwise its ok. You can definitely handle it.
In fact, you can tell a lot of the people here are noticing how grown up and sophisticated you are. There is not really any good reason to hide your thoughts and opinions about things, as you can tell everyone here is really starting to respect you and will likely be impressed the more forward you are.
Yeah, you can probably handle 4 or 5 more of these drinks if you feel like it. For sure.
Tylaerys:
Of the two men, one man looks like he wants to crawl under the table and hide. He is woefully underdressed, even for grungy pirate-bar standards, and he seems to be aware that he is out of place here. The other man, dressed in much finer clothes, seems to be enjoying himself and is fairly deep in his cups.
The sorceress doesn't appear to be drinking. She is taking all of this in, and watches the newcomers with a cool, detached gaze.
Vologives a slight bow at Tylaerys' introductions. "Of course, I remember the names now. Yes, I had caught them in a little security trap outside my hotel room door. Just a silly misunderstanding, as it happens. They were quite reasonable about the whole thing."
He laughs, then turns back to the table. "Allow me to introduce my other guests this evening. This," he points to the well dressed man, "Is Isaac Belt, of the Belt Patriars."
The man steps up from his seat, and offers to kiss the hands of all the ladies. "It is my pleasure to make your acquaintance," he says in turn to each, before returning to his seat.
"Yes... well, if you've bought a horse anywhere near Baldur's Gate, odds are excellent you bought it from his family. Fine horse breeders and... yes. All that."
"And his friend, Mr..." Volo trails off, gesturing toward the other man and obviously hoping he will introduce himself. The man merely smiles awkwardly and waves.
The other man jumps in. "Jorunn Nighbury. Don't be afraid Jorunn, they won't bite. Jorunn here has been one of our finest horsebreeders, and just made me a small fortune on a trade. He's joining us for a bit of drinking and gaming tonight... he's earned every copper spent."
With a bit of dramatic flourish, Volo walks behind the last guests chair, and then turns slowly to face you all. "And last, but certainly not least... coming all the way from Waterdeep, taking a much needed break from her duties at the Blackstaff Academy, I present to you, Laraelra Harsard, close friend and adviser to the Blackstaff herself." He lets that hang in the air with a look of gravitas.
"Now... who still needs a drink?"
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
Jirel just grunts as she's introduced. She'd then look each individual up and down as they're introduced. Naturally she'd be committing their appearance to memory and comparing them to the bark document. The goliath preferred to be standing, so she would take position behind her seated companions. Simply listening and observing, she'd keep her face neutral for the most part until it was mentioned that they wouldn't bite. Jirel would grin, having her fangs show. And when the Little One would enthusiastically ask for another drink, her grin would hold a moment longer knowing the many directions this could, and will go. The giantess is keeping an eye on her, and the others, much like the others would also look out for the Little One. Jirel was prepared to do a little lifting. She'd shake her head no to any beverages this evening.
Most of those who pay attention to Waterdeep political and social structures are aware of the Blackstaff, a title passed down not by heredity or election, but by the whim of a sentient staff of power. The most famous of these was the legendary Khelben Arunsun. The current Blackstaff is one of the youngest ever, a studious woman by the name of Vajra Safahr. One of Vajra's first actions as the Blackstaff was to elevate an unknown sorceress, Laraelra Harsand, to the position of her first apprentice and heir.
Outside of her role as master of the students and apprentices in the Blackstaff Tower, little is known about her. Much has been made of the young ages of these two - though considering Vajra may well serve as the Blackstaff for many decades, Laraelra's age is perhaps less important. Laraelra is seen as a steadfast ally, advisor and confidant of the Blackstaff, and is often sent out in Vajra's place and speaks with her master's authority.
Through your own inquiries and some stories heard from other Harpers, Tylaerys has heard quite a bit more. Laraelra's background is not that of a cloistered sage or wealthy debutante. She is the daughter of a steward in the Waterdeep sewerkeepers guild, and had made no name for herself prior to a chance encounter with Vajra a decade ago. The previous Blackstaff had been murdered, and political rivals had kidnapped Vajra Safahr, with plans to use her to bring down Blackstaff Tower. Laraelra risked her life to rescue Vajra and nursed her back to health, and together the two of them defeated the plot and brought the schemers to justice. Once she was properly installed as the Blackstaff, Vajra's first act was to name the young Laraelra as her apprentice and her.
In addition to her public duties speaking on behalf of the Blackstaff and running the academy, you have also heard she is one of the chief supporters and leaders of Force Grey, a quasi-military order that protects Waterdeep from dangers that are too much for the regular Watch to handle. While not an active member, Laraelra is said to supervise and provide intelligence to the group.
You have also heard that, as the heir to the Blackstaff, Laraelra is capable of channeling the Blackstaff's power through herself when needed - though what that means exactly, you don't know.
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
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Finn rushes after the tipsy woman as she turns to leave. "Sally? Sally Struthers?" he asks as his left hand gently touches upon her shoulder. Even as he does so his right hand surreptitiously dips in and out of her handbag, taking what he can.
"Oh, sorry," he says in his best apologetic manner. "Thought you were someone else... Forgive me, please." That said he bows and backs away down the steps and back into the crowd.
Sleight of Hand: 17
Feeling elated at being admitted with all the grown-ups, Yeshil descends into the tavern area with the others. She looks around, smiling broadly at the rowdy gamblers, peering curiously over punters' shoulders at their hands of cards. The young woman bites her lower lip and begins to walk over toward the bar... she sees that Tylaerys is moving directly down to the next level and turns to follow... but then changes her mind again and hurries back to the bar. Her head and shoulders barely clear the bartop, but she calls up breathlessly to the bartender:
Um... hello? I'd like a drink please. I don't know which... Maybe that one! And points to the most brightly-colored cocktail on offer.
If served, she will take her prize and follow after Tylaerys.
(Not sure if there is a menu or list or display, but Yeshil will make a choice one way or another)
How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
There is a menu!
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
Finn:
You deftly reach into the purse and grasp an expensive-feeling necklace.
The woman seems none the wiser as she continues up the stairs, and you slip back into the crowd to assess your prize.
Curiously, the necklace seems to be made of simple iron, with a red enameled cross hanging from the end. Probably not very valuable at all.
Make a CHARISMA save, DC 18, please.
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
Tylaerys, Jararaka, Jirel and Yeshil [with her chosen drink] descend to the Lounge level on the ship.
This tavern lounge fills this entire deck and is lit by oil lanterns hanging from the 8-foot-high ceiling by 1-foot-long chains. The windowless deck contains another bar, couches, coffee tables, and tables where patrons can socialize and gamble. Three of the Low Lantern's bouncers stand in plain view across the deck. Though this level isn't quite as busy, it is darker and smells just as bad, with no windows and little air flow.
The bar here is tended by yet another Kenku.
At the aft-side of the Lounge deck, there seems to be a small, private party. A well dressed, handsome human man is holding court. He has turned a pair of couches and a coffee table there into a more intimate space, and one of the bouncers is keeping out uninvited guests. The handsome man sits on the starboard couch, his feet on the table and his eyes moving between the room, and the elven couple sitting across from him on the port-side couch. But your eyes are drawn instead to the small fiend, a spined devil, perched on the back of the handsome man's couch.
Around the rest of the room, small groups drink and smoke and engage is quieter games of chance than those on the deck above. A bard, in green jacket with white frills, is warming up his lute in the corner.
At a table near the stairs, you spot your host at last; the enigmatic wizard and author Volothamp Geddarm. He is dressed in his trademark violet beret, and is engaged in conversation with three others at his table; an out of place and nervous looking common human man, a smiling and well-dressed Human man, and a dark-haired and darker-eyed young Human sorceress.
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
((sigh, what I get myself into now?))
Charisma Save: 12... uh oh
Finn:
As you ponder what worthless trinket you just wasted your time on, there is a sudden and peculiar feeling. It is as if a bubble forms around you, insulating and isolating you from the tavern around you. The sound fades away, and the color drains from the room around you.
A voice, atonal and genderless, emanates from the necklace. If anyone around you can hear it, they do not react.
Greetings, stranger. If you're receiving this message, then my little honey-pot worked as predicted.
Earlier today, you were seen picking pockets in the Wide. You're not one of us. The Guild can't have unsanctioned privateers shearing our flock. You're indirectly stealing from us, you understand.
In the old days, we would have cut off your index fingers and thumbs as an example. Or just slit your throat and dumped you in the harbor, if we were busy. But these days, we're trying to turn over a new leaf. A kinder, gentler Guild, as it were. So you're in luck.
Here is how this is going to play out. You are now the proud owner of a brand new, delicious and particularly specific curse. One that will ensure you don't cause the Guild any more trouble with your sticky fingers. Congratulations.
You have yourself a couple of options... either show up at the Statue of Minsc in the Wide tonight, alone, with everything you stole today along with penalty interest. Let's call it... an extra 25gp. Do that and we will lift the curse and put this whole silly misunderstanding behind us.
Option two: you carry this curse forever and find yourself a new line of work, or a prison cell somewhere.
You get to make the call, Friendo.
Just then, the 'bubble' around you seems to pop, and the sounds and smells of the Low Lantern return. Up the stairs, you see the well-dressed woman look back, briefly. There is no malice in her expression, just the calm look of a professional making sure the job is done. Then, she continues away on the top deck, out of sight.
Standing there in the tavern, you don't feel any different. Maybe this was just a trick to scare you?
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
With a thought and a little magical effort, Misses Binklesworth is summoned back into form and instructed to follow the woman and find out where she sleeps...
Then Finn takes a moment to consider his options. Well, he doesn't really have any, does he? He certainly wasn't showing up at no Minsc statue and letting such nefarious types have a free shot at him. Besides, if he had 25 gold to throw away he wouldn't have been trying to pilfer more, he'd have won it fair and square by cheating at cards. That decided he chuckles and heads down into the ship/tavern... Hopefully the weird wizard at least is buying tonight.
The young blonde half-elf shudders briefly with disgust as she spots the spined infernal creature, quickly averting her silvery eyes. She had heard the rumours of Baldur's Gate being a home for those making pacts with devils but she didn't expect to see one openly displayed, even in a sordid place like this one. She makes a mental note of the appearance of the handsome man holding court, most likely one of the city's more corrupted patriars.
Tylaerys is relieved to finally spot Mr. Volothamp, turning to motion for the others to follow her as she makes her way over to his table. "Nice to meet you again Mr. Volo." She says with a charming smile that she shares with the other seated at the table, waiting for Volo to introduce them to each other and offer them all a seat.
Persuasion to make a good first impression: 24
Insight to discern more about the people at the table: 21
Yeshil follows downstairs, clutching her bright-red Bilge Juice. Her first few sips cause her to choke and splutter, but she presses on with determination and by the time she reaches Volo's table the first-time drinker has swigged almost half the cup. She waves a greeting and smiles at the other patrons at the table, but hangs back quietly (on the aft side of the table, closest to the bar) as introductions are made.
How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
At Tylaerys' introduction, Volo pauses a beat, thinking. Then he snaps his fingers. "That is where those other tickets went. Of course." He rises from his seat and fetches a couple of nearby chairs to make enough room at his table. "Please... please... join us."
"Friends," he says [addressing those seated at the table] "Allow me to introduce some young women once-accused but entirely innocent of my attempted kidnapping the other day. Their names escape me at the moment but as I recall they are on an exciting quest of some sort that should make for enchanting conversation."
[Yeshil, go ahead and make a CON save, DC12.]
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
The young blonde half-elf pouts briefly as she is introduced in a less than gallant way but quickly takes on a pleasant smile again as she takes seat at the table, charmingly looking around at the others. "I must admit I wasn't aware we were accused of any kidnapping attempts. If you refer to our meeting the other day it must have been a misunderstanding. We are indeed on an exciting quest though. My name is Tylaerys and this is Jirel, Yeshil and Jararaka." She says, motioning to her present companions, then looking curiously at Volo's friends, expecting them to introduce themselves.
(Did the insight on the others at the table give anything at all? :-)
Finn squeezes his way through the crowd and down into the ship looking for the others. His eyes linger long upon the gaming tables but with just six copper to his name he must, alas, restrain himself for now. As he weaves through the crowd he considers the iron necklace with the red enameled cross. He wonders if perhaps it is Jirel's style. She seems like she may appreciate style and craftsmanship over value and the rarity of the metal it is crafted in... But Finn quickly shakes that thought out of his head. There could be a spell or enchantment upon the thing beyond what he's already triggered and he'll be damned if he blindly passes that off to Jirel. And it is with that thought that he grabs a drink off the tray of a passing waitress and drops the necklace upon it in exchange. He uses Minor Illusion to make the jewelry look more valuable than it is... at least long enough for the exchange to be made.
Soon enough he catches up with the others, spotting them gathered around a table as they are being offered seats. "There you are," he says to Yeshil, giving he a small bump to get her attention. "Who's these folk?" He notices the kid with a drink in her hand and he widens his eyes and makes it clear that he notices... But then he smiles and shrugs to show it's fine. She's not his kid, after all...
CON save: 10
How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
Yeshil looks up at Finn with a broad smile and flushed cheeks as she answers his question: That's Volo, silly! I don't know who the others... oh, what's that drink you've got? Is that the ogre one? She continues to smile at Finn for a few uncomfortable seconds before turning her attention back to the table conversation.
How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
Yeshil:
This drink isn't bad. It sort of tastes like someone poured a bunch of juice into a hollowed-out potato, set it on fire, then poured it into your cup, but otherwise its ok. You can definitely handle it.
In fact, you can tell a lot of the people here are noticing how grown up and sophisticated you are. There is not really any good reason to hide your thoughts and opinions about things, as you can tell everyone here is really starting to respect you and will likely be impressed the more forward you are.
Yeah, you can probably handle 4 or 5 more of these drinks if you feel like it. For sure.
Tylaerys:
Of the two men, one man looks like he wants to crawl under the table and hide. He is woefully underdressed, even for grungy pirate-bar standards, and he seems to be aware that he is out of place here. The other man, dressed in much finer clothes, seems to be enjoying himself and is fairly deep in his cups.
The sorceress doesn't appear to be drinking. She is taking all of this in, and watches the newcomers with a cool, detached gaze.
Volo gives a slight bow at Tylaerys' introductions. "Of course, I remember the names now. Yes, I had caught them in a little security trap outside my hotel room door. Just a silly misunderstanding, as it happens. They were quite reasonable about the whole thing."
He laughs, then turns back to the table. "Allow me to introduce my other guests this evening. This," he points to the well dressed man, "Is Isaac Belt, of the Belt Patriars."
The man steps up from his seat, and offers to kiss the hands of all the ladies. "It is my pleasure to make your acquaintance," he says in turn to each, before returning to his seat.
"Yes... well, if you've bought a horse anywhere near Baldur's Gate, odds are excellent you bought it from his family. Fine horse breeders and... yes. All that."
"And his friend, Mr..." Volo trails off, gesturing toward the other man and obviously hoping he will introduce himself. The man merely smiles awkwardly and waves.
The other man jumps in. "Jorunn Nighbury. Don't be afraid Jorunn, they won't bite. Jorunn here has been one of our finest horsebreeders, and just made me a small fortune on a trade. He's joining us for a bit of drinking and gaming tonight... he's earned every copper spent."
With a bit of dramatic flourish, Volo walks behind the last guests chair, and then turns slowly to face you all. "And last, but certainly not least... coming all the way from Waterdeep, taking a much needed break from her duties at the Blackstaff Academy, I present to you, Laraelra Harsard, close friend and adviser to the Blackstaff herself." He lets that hang in the air with a look of gravitas.
"Now... who still needs a drink?"
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
Yeshil's hand shoots up and waves in the air, but the girl doesn't reply verbally as she is busy draining the last of her first drink.
How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
Tylaerys History: 17
Jirel just grunts as she's introduced. She'd then look each individual up and down as they're introduced. Naturally she'd be committing their appearance to memory and comparing them to the bark document. The goliath preferred to be standing, so she would take position behind her seated companions. Simply listening and observing, she'd keep her face neutral for the most part until it was mentioned that they wouldn't bite. Jirel would grin, having her fangs show. And when the Little One would enthusiastically ask for another drink, her grin would hold a moment longer knowing the many directions this could, and will go. The giantess is keeping an eye on her, and the others, much like the others would also look out for the Little One. Jirel was prepared to do a little lifting. She'd shake her head no to any beverages this evening.
just an unstable unicorn.
Tylaerys:
Most of those who pay attention to Waterdeep political and social structures are aware of the Blackstaff, a title passed down not by heredity or election, but by the whim of a sentient staff of power. The most famous of these was the legendary Khelben Arunsun. The current Blackstaff is one of the youngest ever, a studious woman by the name of Vajra Safahr. One of Vajra's first actions as the Blackstaff was to elevate an unknown sorceress, Laraelra Harsand, to the position of her first apprentice and heir.
Outside of her role as master of the students and apprentices in the Blackstaff Tower, little is known about her. Much has been made of the young ages of these two - though considering Vajra may well serve as the Blackstaff for many decades, Laraelra's age is perhaps less important. Laraelra is seen as a steadfast ally, advisor and confidant of the Blackstaff, and is often sent out in Vajra's place and speaks with her master's authority.
Through your own inquiries and some stories heard from other Harpers, Tylaerys has heard quite a bit more. Laraelra's background is not that of a cloistered sage or wealthy debutante. She is the daughter of a steward in the Waterdeep sewerkeepers guild, and had made no name for herself prior to a chance encounter with Vajra a decade ago. The previous Blackstaff had been murdered, and political rivals had kidnapped Vajra Safahr, with plans to use her to bring down Blackstaff Tower. Laraelra risked her life to rescue Vajra and nursed her back to health, and together the two of them defeated the plot and brought the schemers to justice. Once she was properly installed as the Blackstaff, Vajra's first act was to name the young Laraelra as her apprentice and her.
In addition to her public duties speaking on behalf of the Blackstaff and running the academy, you have also heard she is one of the chief supporters and leaders of Force Grey, a quasi-military order that protects Waterdeep from dangers that are too much for the regular Watch to handle. While not an active member, Laraelra is said to supervise and provide intelligence to the group.
You have also heard that, as the heir to the Blackstaff, Laraelra is capable of channeling the Blackstaff's power through herself when needed - though what that means exactly, you don't know.
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