"19?" Finn asks incredulously, not having any idea what they were bartering over.  "And I was about to offer you double that!"

     Finn barges right up next to Jararaka giving no sign of recognition, and starts picking up and putting down the various wares and goods, sniffing them, shuffling from hand to hand as if weighing them and otherwise manhandling everything on offer.  "So what we negotiating over?  Anything good?  I can totally outbid this scaly scoundrel.  What say we start the bidding at, what did you say?  19?"

     "Was it 19 they said?" Finn quickly asks Jararaka.

     "Yes, 19!" Finn says to the man quick as a flash.  "19, 19, 19 going once, going twice... I'll bid 20.  Bid is 20, 20, 20... Anyone bidding 21?  21 anyone?  21 going once... going twice...  21 silver pieces going, going gone!  Sold to the darling young lady for 21 silver and a bargain at half the price!"

     Finn looks from the seller to Jaraka and back again with a big grin on her face and a sparkle in her eye.  "Yay!  What I win??" she asks, one hand out while the other goes to her coin purse looking for some silver to pay with.

((No magic used but Finn will use a combination of Persuasion, Deception and Performance to pull off she quick talking scam artist bit?  8 since they are all the same...))

The shopkeep is initially confused by Finn's aggressive intrusion, but then he quickly gets caught up on the excitement of the bidding war.  "Yes!  Yes!  21 it is!"  He takes the coin and pockets it without awareness of the con.

 Congratulations, Finn.  You just bought a small pouch of dust.

He looks to Jararaka forlornly.  "So sorry, dear, but once again, you have no need for such weight loss powders.  Is there anything else I could interest you in?"  he asks, gesturing toward the rest of his nick-nacks and handmade costume jewelry.

Even if just for a moment, it was nice to just stop and listen, to not hear her own voice in her head. Jirel appreciated Tylaerys’ share as she’d savour a sweet treat she’s never had before. With gentle strength she returns the half-elf’s squeeze of her hand. She was heard. Even a soft low chuckle escaped the goliath. Yes, indeed she’s pretty easy to find in crowd. The others on the other hand… They appeared to have eluded Tylaerys at that very moment, even if brief.

Jirel couldn’t help but feel that Finn had come and gone quite quickly from Sweetjen’s. Her head would tilt slightly, brow quirked. She was very tempted to go check out the place herself. There had to be a reason right? Was Jonnet not there? She couldn’t help but grumble lowly to herself as questions flooded her mind.

”This way.” The giantess decides to lead Tylaerys along through the crowd. Instead of taking the most direct path to Jararaka and Finn, Jirel takes a detour by Sweetjen’s to see if she may be able to eavesdrop through the tent on a post Finn visit. 

[Whenever Jararaka (or the others) have a chance to read it...]

Baldur's Gate Gazette    Vol. XIV 313

News

• Watch Solves Murderous Cultist Case, Casts Doubt on Flaming Fist

  BALDUR'S GATE - The Watch has successfully brought an end to a series of heinous murders committed by a malevolent cult that plagued the streets of Baldur's Gate. The rapid resolution of this dark chapter underscores the Watch's relentless dedication and superior investigative prowess, while raising questions about the effectiveness of the Flaming Fist.

  For weeks, citizens lived in fear as grisly murders unfolded, accompanied by mysterious symbols etched into the victims' flesh. Rumors spread, and anxiety gripped the city, prompting public demands for answers.

  In an impressive turn of events, the Watch, led by Captain Elara Ravenshadow, launched an exhaustive investigation. Through diligent work, they apprehended the cultists responsible for the crimes.  Exact details of the cult's origins, and whether this foreshadows some new dark power rising, are unknown at this time.

  The Watch's success highlights concerns about the Flaming Fist's ability to maintain order. Questions have arisen regarding their competence and effectiveness, given their resources and training. Critics argue that corruption, nepotism, and heavy-handed tactics have compromised the Flaming Fist's approach to law enforcement. Calls for a reevaluation of their role in maintaining order have grown louder.

  As the city breathes a collective sigh of relief, the Watch emerges as a symbol of hope. Their commitment to justice and the safety of citizens is unquestionable. With the cultists behind bars or slain, Baldur's Gate can rest easy, knowing that its guardians are capable and dedicated.

  Only time will tell if the Flaming Fist will address the concerns raised by their failure to bring the cultists to justice. The Watch's triumph serves as a reminder that they are a steadfast force, a beacon of hope in a city shrouded by shadows.

  Byline: Thaddeus Stonehand

Business

• Iron Shortage Looms, Raising Concerns for Businesses

  BALDUR'S GATE - The city faces a pressing concern as rumors of an impending iron shortage circulate within business circles. The potential scarcity of this vital resource has raised concerns among local businesses and trade associations, casting a shadow of uncertainty over the future of various industries that heavily rely on iron.

  The demand for iron, a key component in the production of weapons, armor, tools, and infrastructure, has steadily increased in recent years. However, supply issues coupled with disruptions in the iron mining industry have sparked worries of a looming shortage. Some industry experts have attributed this predicament to labor disputes, transportation challenges, and dwindling ore reserves.

  The potential impact of an iron shortage would reverberate across numerous sectors, including blacksmithing, construction, and weaponry. Business owners are already bracing themselves for potential price hikes, reduced production capabilities, and the need to explore alternative materials or sourcing options.

   

  Byline: The Business Desk of The Baldur's Gate Gazette

Lifestyle

• Countdown to Highharvestide Festival: Baldur's Gate Prepares for Spectacular Celebrations

  BALDUR'S GATE - Excitement is palpable as the city eagerly anticipates the upcoming Highharvestide Festival, set to commence in just three days. With inns brimming with visitors and public squares adorned with vibrant decorations, Baldur's Gate is poised to host a spectacular celebration that promises joy, merriment, and a vibrant showcase of local culture.

  As the harvest season reaches its zenith, the Highharvestide Festival marks a time of thanksgiving and abundance. The streets are already abuzz with preparations, with local artisans and merchants adorning storefronts with colorful bunting and seasonal motifs, adding a delightful charm to the city's already picturesque scenery.

  Visitors and residents alike will find themselves immersed in a myriad of festivities and events taking place throughout the festival. The city's renowned taverns and inns are working tirelessly to accommodate the influx of guests, with rooms booking up rapidly. Those lucky enough to secure accommodations will be treated to lavish feasts, live musical performances, and captivating storytelling sessions that transport listeners to realms of wonder and enchantment.

  One of the festival's highlights is the Grand Parade, a lively procession that winds its way through the heart of Baldur's Gate. Expect to be dazzled by elaborately designed floats, vibrant costumes, and a vibrant display of talent from local performing arts groups. 

  For those seeking a taste of adventure, the Festival Market -taking over The Wide - offers a delightful array of local delicacies, crafts, and unique treasures. From mouthwatering street food to intricately crafted trinkets, the market is a treasure trove of sensory delights, where visitors can immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Baldur's Gate's cultural heritage.

  Amidst the revelry, it is important to remember the underlying significance of Highharvestide. It is a time for reflection and gratitude, where the community comes together to honor the bounty of the land and express appreciation for the abundance that sustains them throughout the year. A special Harvest Blessing Ceremony will take place, where attendees can join in a solemn moment of thanks and reflection, paying homage to the deities of the harvest.

  As the days grow shorter and the seasons change, the anticipation in Baldur's Gate reaches a crescendo. The Highharvestide Festival serves not only as a celebration of abundance but also as a testament to the city's vibrant spirit and sense of community. With its captivating events, bustling markets, and warm hospitality, the festival promises to be an experience that will create lasting memories for all who partake.

  So mark your calendars, gather your loved ones, and prepare to immerse yourself in the magic of Highharvestide. Baldur's Gate awaits, ready to offer an unforgettable celebration that will leave you enchanted and yearning for more.

  Byline: The Lifestyle Desk of The Baldur's Gate Gazette

Editorial

• EDITORIAL: Flaming Fist's Failures Demand Contract Termination

  The recent handling of the cultist apprehension by the Watch has exposed the Flaming Fist's alarming inadequacies in safeguarding Baldur's Gate. This editorial asserts that their contract renewal must be seriously reconsidered due to the pervasive corruption, incompetence, and unjustified violence inflicted upon citizens. The time has come to address these issues and terminate their contract.

  The Flaming Fist's inability to solve the heinous murder spree that gripped our city for weeks cannot be ignored. While the Watch swiftly pursued justice, the Flaming Fist stood idle, effectively complicit in the perpetuation of these crimes. Their lack of action raises doubts about their competence and commitment.

  Additionally, corruption allegations plague the Flaming Fist. Reports of nepotism, favoritism, and illicit dealings have tarnished their reputation, eroding public trust. Whispers of officers engaging in abuse of power, turning a blind eye to criminals, and participating in bribery are all too common. Baldur's Gate deserves a force that prioritizes the safety of its inhabitants over personal gain.

  Equally concerning are incidents of excessive force employed by the Flaming Fist against innocent citizens. Officers have been documented resorting to unwarranted violence, causing harm to those they should protect. Their unchecked aggression and disregard for citizens' rights and dignity are unacceptable.

  The city administration must take a firm stance against such incompetence and malfeasance. Renewing the Flaming Fist's contract would perpetuate a system that undermines our safety. An immediate investigation into their practices, a leadership overhaul, and a comprehensive review of their code of conduct are imperative.

  The recent success of the Watch in resolving the cultist case underscores the availability of alternative options to ensure our city's safety. The Watch has exhibited integrity, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to justice. Investing in this capable force would bring about necessary change and restore faith in Baldur's Gate's protectors.

  We must sever ties with the Flaming Fist and seek a new path forward. Baldur's Gate deserves a law enforcement organization that upholds the highest standards, devoid of corruption and genuinely dedicated to our well-being. Let us prioritize the safety and prosperity of our city by bidding farewell to an unworthy organization.

  Byline: The Editorial Board of The Baldur's Gate Gazette

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Jararaka is about to haggle further before Finn appears. She blinks in confusion, then quickly hops on the ride, as if being swept along as well. "Huh, 20 and 5 silver!" She shakes her head in mild disappointment when she loses the bidding, but she does blink rapidly at Finn, trying to convey that there is something in that dust. "Thins you down, apparently." She then shakes her head again at the shopkeep, "looks like it's not mine t' have, boss. Thanks for your time anyways."

She then saunters off, slow enough that Finn can easily catch up, stopping just before the gate to Wyrm Rock. She tilts her head to the changeling, "dunno what's in the pouch, but it's not what the shopkeep said it was. I'll hafta check what it is tomorrow. How did the meeting go?"

Waiting to reconvene, she hands the gazette to anyone else who wants to take a gander. "Some local news. There's talk of some cult murder cases, don't know if it's the one we are interested in though."

[WOO that's a lot on the gazette!! heading to sleep as I post this, I'll probably have to reread it more carefully when I have time haha]

Insight: 17

As Jirel approaches the tarp to attempt to listen in on whatever conversations may be taking place post-Finn, the flap rolls back quickly and a human man almost crashes into her as he steps out quickly.

He deftly pulls to a stop before impact, looking up at the towering giantess in surprise, his eyes narrowing briefly before relaxing, settling into annoyance rather than alarm.  "Pardon me, Ma'am," he says and sidesteps her to continue past and up the bridge toward Wyrm Rock.

Jirel and Tylaerys, you see Misses Binklesworth rise from her perch in the sun, stretch, and saunter off in quiet pursuit of the man through the crowd.

     Finn bows and thanks the salesman as she accepts the bag.  She quickly opens it, looks at the contents skeptically, takes a sniff and then scrunches up her nose.  "Oh dear.  This isn't what I wanted at all... I was looking for cinnamon!"  With a sheepish smile, Finn bounces the bag up and down in one hand and then turns and wanders off towards Jararaka.

     "All yours," Finn then says tossing the bag to the Lizardperson with a wink.  "Just saw the chance for a bit of fun is all..."

     "I didn't get the right vibes from the meeting at all," Finn admits with a bit of a shrug.  "Jonnet, if that was actually who I was talking to, didn't seem all that interested but also claimed it wasn't his decision.  He wanted to lead me to some other location to meet yet someone else...  Seemed like a set up so I scuttled off.  I think I was partly hoping they'd chase after me more interested than I thought but..." Finn shrugs rather than bothering to explain further.

     "But I did by some cinnamon and ginger.  So there's that..."

     "A cult, huh?" Finn asks, going up on tiptoe to try to read over Jararaka's shoulder, or at least around the side of her arm.  "How many cults can one city have?  We would inquire with this Watch...  Though I think we should check with this Flaming Fist.  Always check with the underdogs, I say!  They need the most help so likely also give the most..."

Tylaerys follows the blonde giantess, staying close by her side, letting Jirel decide where to head next but keeping her wary silvery eyes on the surroundings to see if anyone would take an unhealthy interest in the couple. "You know I bet there is an excellent view if one had the pleasure of sitting on your shoulders. But maybe not so discreet." She says with a wink and a playful smile to the goliath.

Perception: 22
Insight: 11

Jararaka catches the pouch and tucks it away. Not looking too perturbed by what, or the lack of, they got out of the meeting with Jonnet, she shrugs, "a private meeting like that does sound shady. There's a place in Sow's Foot, a pawn shop, they could probably help us find out more about all the main gangs here. Better to find them on our terms anyway."

"It does say the cult has been committing grisly murders, doesn't sound like our target... unless it's the Red Wizards?" She scratches her head as she reads, and then nods to Finn's suggestion, "Flaming Fist first sounds good, looks like they've been handling security for a while."

A soft grunt escapes Jirel from the unexpected. She stands a bit stunned from the human man that abruptly came out of the tent. Honey hues watch him, and then Finn's kitty, head off. Then with a look to Tylaerys, and a shrug, she eventually starts making her way with Tylaerys through the crowd towards the others. "It'sa favourite amongst children." The giantess responds quietly with a nod to the half-elfs musings.

Should they arrive while the pair, Jararaka and Finn, are huddled over some paper with words, Jirel can't help but look over both their shoulders from her tall vantage point. Hearing a bit of what they're talking about, the giantess leans in and squints at the print. It takes a while, her eyes scanning over the print several times as she soundlessly mouths the words to herself. Eventually her eyes go squirly and she picks out some of the references Jararaka and Finn are making. She agreed they should speak with both parties if they could, the Watch and the Flaming Fist, which were different from the Crosser's and the Rats? It was getting hard to keep track of who they were looking for, who they wanted to speak to, who they should speak to first... Jirel scratches her head. She was thankful for those willing to pick/lead a way through the web that is social networks.

Following Jirel close and catching up with Jararaka and Finn as they read the Baldur's Gate Gazette she agilely slides up by the lizardfolk's side to have a peek of her own. She only visitied the City of Blood once, just passing through, but she knew well that this city was infamous for being a viper's nest of schemes and schemers so there would likely be quite a few cults operating in the city. "Did you find anything out so far?" She discreetly and quietly asks Jararaka and Finn without taking her eyes from the news in front of them.

     Finn looks about her with a bit of a start and notices the whole gang is back together.  At least the gang that is left.  

     "Oh?  Oh... No.  Nothing," Finn says with a frown answering Tylaerys.  Finn then pauses a moment and places a hand on Jararaka's arm to steady herself as she closes her eyes and concentrates a moment or three and looks through Misses Binklesworth's eyes to see if she is being followed by Jonnet or the woman.  If Finn determines that she is not in eyesight of either then she will change her face to that of a young male raconteur  type - Handsome, perpetually amused and always quick with a joke, a song or a good insult.  

     "Best not be too careful," he says before continuing to reveal the details of the short meeting.  "Just wasn't feeling the right mojo.  Too interested in how many of us there was, where the others were, wanting to bring me somewhere else...  Maybe it wasn't a set up but a young girl has to be careful and trust her gut.  Me though?  I'd have probably gone and trusted myself to find a way out if need be..."

     Finn checks in with Misses Binklesworth again and then goes through some exaggerated stretches and readjusting of his clothes.  It's amazing how much difference it can make to just readjust the fold of a cloak, or the tuck of a shirt... Just wear your clothes a bit different, shape a new face and add a flashy bandana and bingo!  After the adjustments he is ready to get on the move again.  "So we were thinking maybe checking out the Flaming Fist.  With that much bad press they must be good at pissing people off.  Maybe it's the right people?"

     "Say...  Anyone know a place to buy a good whip?"

((Wearing same clothes but Finn now going more for this kind of appearance...))

Jararaka blinks in fascination as Finn transforms into a completely different person, still not used to this ability. She looks at the setting sun, then nods, "check out Flaming Fists first, then somewhere to stay? Probably too late for proper business now. A city this big, there should be a good leathersmith somewhere along the way."

A soft grumble emits from Jirel and she visibly shifts her weight in discomfort. Even though she’s aware of Finn’s abilities, it doesn’t make it any less unsettling for her. Of course to Finn this was incredibly natural, but to the goliath, it wasn’t. To become comfortable with the fluidity of these illusions almost felt like becoming comfortable with deception. While she understood the advantages of it, and that it is a survival mechanism, it didn’t make it any easier for Jirel to adjust. And as much as she believed that gender should not make a difference, and as much as she didn’t want to admit it, from her experience, it did make an unconscious difference. There was this instilled sense of distrust towards the opposite sex which was hard to shake. While she grew to trust Finn, it didn’t change her guard from going up, at least temporarily, with this new face. 

So they were going to just let that lead go due to bad mojo? Jirel’s lips purse. “Flamin’ Fist it is.” She says. “Then an inn of sorts.” She agrees with Jararaka’s assessment if the day was fading away from them.

Finn:

 You reach a bottleneck in traffic on the bridge as you continue to work toward Baldur's Gate.  At the lower gate of Wyrm Rock, the Flaming Fist fortification in the middle of the bridge, passing foot traffic is gathered into two lines.  One moves quickly and contains the porters from Rivington, who show a stamp or strip of paper fixed to the items they are carrying, and are allowed to pass through the fort and onto the upper half of the bridge.  There are a few non-porters in this line as well, and these people either flash badges or toss coin to the Flaming Fist guard manning that checkpoint.

The other line contains the rest of the pedestrians and moves much slower.  More Flaming Fist guards here interview the pedestrians.  Some produce paperwork while others pay a few coin and are allowed to pass.  A few are asked to step aside to be searched.

The guards are dressed in either heavy chain or scale mail, covered in red tabbards.  The tabbards display a teardrop-shaped image of a closed fist, wreathed in flame.  The same image hangs from banners on the sides of Wyrm Rock.  Of the fort itself, it casts an imposing and formidable shadow over the rest of the bridge.  Its walls look to be granite, at least one foot thick.  Past the guards, the only way through to the other side is a single, 15' wide hallway running the length of the fort.  Even from here, you can see the many small openings in the hall's walls through which hidden defenders would be positioned to fire bolts and arrows at any would-be invaders.

If you wait in the longer line, it takes about 20 minutes to get to the front and meet the guards.  

"We should settle for a story on why we're coming to Baldur's Gate in case we are asked and searched." Tylaerys quietly and discreetly says to the others as they approach the lines with their steeds in tow. "Maybe we are simply passing through to the north?" She suggests with a slight shrug. "I should mention I might be able to find out more of any cult activities in the city through a contact I've been given. We, or at least I, would have to visit a certain lending house inside the city, I think it might be worth a try." She says with a hopeful smile, looking around at the others. "I would prefer someone to have my back so maybe I can go there with Jirel and you two can see what you can get out of the Flaming Fists and then we meet up at a decent inn?" She suggests, looking at Jararaka and the male Finn. She didn't know much about changelings and she found herself wondering if Finn had a true form, or at least one they  preferred over the others. "So, do we try to pay our way through the fast lane?" The young blonde half-elf adds after a while, not sounding overly concerned with what choice will be made.

     Finn will wonder why the familiar has changed targets but will trust Misses Binklesworth and that she knows what she is doing.  Losing contact with her Finn decides to give her more time before summoning her back and trying to find out what is going on.

     "If we're not in a hurry I see no reason to be," Finn says with a grin as he pulls out his fiddle and starts tuning it.  "Not sure the rules here so why risk angering the guards on the quick lane breaking them?  Besides, those sorts on that side generally don't tip very well anyway..."

At Tylaerys' suggestion to come up with a story, Jararaka considers, "hm, like if we said we were adventurers? Adventuring takes you to jobs everywhere." She then shrugs, "day's not over yet, you might as well go get one more thing done today. Jirel'll be easy to find. I'll stick with Finn."

When they are about to meet the guards, Jararaka murmurs a quick prayer and claps Finn on the shoulder. "Let's hope these guys have some info."

[casting guidance on Finn just before we see the Flaming Fist guards, add a d4 to an ability check!]

Tylaerys & Jirel:

[We will wait a bit to confirm Jirel is down with the 'cut through the speedy pass line' plan.]

Finn and Jararaka:

You reach the front of the line.  The last group in front of you, a trio of well-dressed humans, was subjected to withering questioning by two Flaming Fist guards.  When one of them resorted to questioning the motivations of these delays, the guards almost immediately point to a third guard, who directed the three men off to the side of the bridge where they were subjected to a search.  As you keep an eye on that, you step forward and the guards address you. 

While one of them takes a long hard look at Jararaka and mostly ignores Finn, the other says, "All right, now... Holiday rates are in effect.  8 coppers each for use of the bridge and another 4 coppers each for security and other festival expenses.  If you possess any magical weapons or wondrous items, now is the time to declare them and present them for inspection.  Likewise for any bottled or barreled alcohol, wine or spirits.  Taxes and tariffs may apply."

He sighs and continues, "Be advised, the following items are strictly prohibited within the city confines: the eggs of monsters, fertilized or otherwise; humanoid body parts, organs, or fluids; traveler's dust, party worm, or pink rhinoceros powder; animated dead, including servants and/or experiments; or holy symbols or scriptures of the dead gods Bane, Bha'al or Myrkul.  Such items, should they be unwittingly in your possession, may be surrendered here without penalty."

"Do you have any items to declare or surrender?"