Grudnik nods his head as he mulls over Sur'kil's words.
"First, you can rest assured that by my honour, no word of this will leave my lips to any not present here without your conesnt. Whether I take this commission or not. Atcha ensures this", he says solemnly.
"You have covered most questions, but the matter of a guide is yet to be discussed. Do any here have the skills needed to safely navigate the jungle to this hidden temple?", he asks of the other's congregated together.
"Only a skuurz'taat rushes in without at least attempting to arm themselves with knowledge".
"I don't believe it would be too difficult for us to find ourselves a guide for the jungles. The deal will include travel expenses, will it not? If you have any recommendations for a guide, Sur'kil, that would be much appreciated. I can't speak for the others, but I'm not very familiar with where one would go to find such people in Q'Barra."
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Look at what you've done. You spoiled it. You have nobody to blame but yourself. Go sit and think about your actions.
Don't be mean. Rudeness is a vicious cycle, and it has to stop somewhere. Exceptions for things that are funny. Go to the current Competition of the Finest 'Brews! It's a cool place where cool people make cool things.
How I'm posting based on text formatting: Mod Hat Off - Mod Hat Also Off (I'm not a mod)
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Victorin mulls over this new information, considering his options. The Age of Demons was long past and he was no stranger to the jungle or finding lost relics, and the money was hard to beat.
“A guide should not be hard to find. But a competent one that can take us deep in the jungle is another story, most cater to dragonshard prospectors. The lizardfolk are a threat, but some tribes can be bargained with. We will need more information on the location of this ruin, the jungles are dotted with them.” His gaze moves back over to Sur’kil, he still feels that their mysterious benefactor was leaving out information. Insight 11 plus 3.
Secret temple, lost secrets, magical gem… Erbert is all in. He sits on the edge of his seat, taking notes, little legs dangling over the edge and subconsciously his legs begin to kick back and forth. He scribbles down every word. There is a gleam in his eye. It is clear, that he is all in, that he feels ready, despite the dangers. “Very good, very good…. I would be glad to weigh in on all things arcane of course. It is my forté. If we will be compensated in said manner and expenses are paid, if we can procure a guide and if we can keep any additional… findings… well then very well. You had me at ‘spherical magic gem.’ I would be glad to join said party and obtain said items, so on and so forth, with all arcane duties that are subsequently necessary.” Little legs kicking furiously, his eyes meet with Sur’kil and he nods, with a grin showing all of his upper teeth. He is interested in the details, but it is clear that in his mind, the cogs are turning….
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
A wizard is never late, nor is he early, he arrives precisely when he means to.
Silthras looks non-plussed at the optimism expressed by the others, "It took me days to escape the jungle, and that was only a few miles travel," he says slowly. "Being lost there again is not something I would willingly repeat."
He draws a deep breath and stares at his hands, flexing his fingers. "Vine-clogged paths, snakes, insects, not to mention the animals and the lizard-men themselves. You either lose sight of the sun completely or...worse...end up in its direct glare. The only saving grace is that food and water are plentiful."
"I am skilled with maps, and that gives me some ability to navigate from landmarks, but without the sun or stars it would be hard." He looks around and shrugs, "Perhaps with all of us working together, we should be able to find our way. Assuming we have a map?"
He turns to Sur'kil, "I assume that there is no road leading to our destination, do you perhaps have a means by which we could navigate there?"
(( @DM: Silthras has proficiency with Cartographers Kit, which (I assume) means he can take location and bearing etc based on land forms, stars etc. I have no idea how that relates to navigation, however! The docs seem to suggest "Navigator's Tools" are for navigation at sea, but to me they seem tightly linked. Would it give him advantage on Survival/Navigation checks? If so, he'd project a little more confidence! ))
After a moment more thought Silthras adds, "A local guide may be a liability if secrecy is required, but could be invaliable in dealing with the lizard-folk. Do we know anything of them?"
Ancidus takes the information in quietly, and only speaks once the others seem to come to a consensus on undertaking the mission. "If the Lizardfolk use the temple, is it not their relic? What god held dominion over the temple -- there are many who would be jealous of someone who came to take what little power remains in a fading spot of power."
"I have a map that leads to the temple's location, which I transcribed from an ancient tablet found during my own research. A scout I hired indicated that the map is accurate, but they were not prepared to face the lizardfolk that live there. If you feel you need a guide, I could make arrangements with one of them. Or you can use the money I've given you to hire one, if you would prefer that. The lizardfolk of the jungle are a bit of a... mixed bag. Settlers in New Galifar and Hope alike have butted heads with them over territory disputes as often as they have traded with or ignored them. Attempts to communicate with them have not reaped much fruit. They speak a dialect of the draconic tongue that makes no sense to even House Sivis translators. Some of the tribes avoid contact with the settlers entirely. Others regularly raid settlements. I believe this particular section of the jungle is home to a tribe known as the Poison Dusk. They are among the most militant of the tribes, and from what I've heard from survivors of their raids is that they worship a fiend that lurks somewhere in the jungle.
"The temple dates back to the Age of Demons. The dragons and their servants built it on the site where a demon was struck down in those ancient times, supposedly. Whatever god it was built to originally has likely been lost to the ages. But that is no matter. I am not asking you to reclaim the temple. I only wish for you to claim ancient artifacts that are possibly stored within the temple itself. The Poison Dusk are likely unaware that such relics even reside in the temple, considering that they lay in a secluded chamber within it. At the end of the day, the lizardfolk are merely an obstacle. Deal with them as you see fit. The real objective is the acquisition of the relics in the temple."
"Well... my vote is for finding a guide. But anyways, I'm in."
Adran stretches out a hand towards Sur'kil, to finalize the deal.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Look at what you've done. You spoiled it. You have nobody to blame but yourself. Go sit and think about your actions.
Don't be mean. Rudeness is a vicious cycle, and it has to stop somewhere. Exceptions for things that are funny. Go to the current Competition of the Finest 'Brews! It's a cool place where cool people make cool things.
How I'm posting based on text formatting: Mod Hat Off - Mod Hat Also Off (I'm not a mod)
"I have also heard enough to make my decision", Grudnik says formally on hearing from the others and Sur'kil.
"The map is a boon but might also complicate things. The fact it was verified by a scout means there is at least one other party who is aware of the location we seek. That knowledge, no matter how much you trust this person Sur'kil, would lead me to recommend speed in leaving on this endeavour".
He looks at Sur'kil, as if appraising him.
"You have called us each here for a particular purpose, due to a particular skill set and reputation. That suggests that together we have the best chance of completing the task. Therefore you will have my services on the condition that each of those you called upon also accept, as has Adran the Watcher", after he says this he looks from face to face of the others present.
He last looks upon the face of Silthras, "If you say you can get us to the temple with the aid of a map, I will take you at your word Silthras. Although I sense your hesitancy. If you have any doubt, I would then agree with the Watcher that we should requisition a guide", he concludes.
"Gods do not tend to go quite so easily as that,"Ancidus demurs placidly. "But so long as there is no one to lay claim to the objects therein, I have no qualms with seeking the temple, and to ensuring no lasting harm comes to those present."
"Confident?" Silthras considers Grudnik 's for a moment. "Perhaps. But a guide does more than find a place; they also understand which locals can be dealt with and which must be avoided. The know the wildlife and the ways of the forest or jungle. I think we still need one."
He turns to Sur'kil, "If you can find that guide -- you obviously trust them -- then that might be best."
"As to the artifacts; they sound heavy. Stone tablets and all. Would you perhaps have a means of lightening the load when carrying them back, should we need to beat a hasty retreat?"
Victorin stands up, responding to Grudnik “You have my acceptance as well.” He looks to the others “If the group insists on a guide, I recommend procuring the services of one of the scouts that have already confirmed the location. Better than starting from scratch with another.”He turns to Sur’kil “If you can direct us to your scouts, and provide your upfront payment, we can get started. Unless the others have questions that are not satisfied?”
"Excellent. I took the potential bulk of the relics into account when concocting this plan, and as such, I will be providing you with one House Cannith standard issue bag of holding to accommodate what you happen to find. You may, of course, use it for your own items, but prioritize storing any relics you find in this bag before considering anything else. I will reach out to my pathfinder and tell them to prepare for an expedition posthaste," Sur'kil says as he produces the aforementioned bag and places it on the nearby table.
Ancidus:
The Age of Demons was so long ago that most of its events have passed from legend into myth. The popular retelling of those stories involves a war between the powerful fiendish entities known as Overlords and a group of champions now known as the Sovereign Host. The Overlords could not be defeated, but they were bound deep within the earth by the power known as the Silver Flame. If a great demon was defeated on the site of this temple, it is most likely that it was too powerful to be destroyed and was bound within Khyber, the Realm Below, instead.
Sur'kil does not seem to be hiding anything. He wholeheartedly believes that the temple is a relic of the Age of Demons and that no great power, divine or otherwise, has laid claim to it aside from the lizardfolk that inhabit it. He seems to believe that the lizardfolk are none the wiser about the relics within.
Silthras nods slowly, "It seems you have planned this well. You have my support."
"But I look forward to seeing the map and meeting the guide you recommend at the soonest opportunity -- if we have questions, getting answers before we leave would be critical."
He leans back in his chair and eats another piece of cured meat, pondering the future. He had not enjoyed his first jungle encounter, but this would be different. A map and a competent team would make a big difference. Nevertheless, provisions would be important.
Pointing to the bag on the table, "I am sure that there are a few things we will need on the journey outward and your bag will be useful for that as well."
"What do you all think?" he asks his new companions, "Spend the day planning and buying provisions, speak to the guide and -- assuming our questions are answered -- leave in the morning?"
Adran nods upon hearing Silthras's suggestion. "If we collect our upfront payment now, then we can spend it as we please, including for travel equipment and armaments. We can come back here later on to discuss with the scout that Sur'kil shall summon, and then rest ourselves to prepare for travel the next dawn." Adran asks both Sur'kil and Victorin, "Do you know the location of any artificers, magic shops, or smithies in Adderport? I'd like to put my funds to good use."
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Look at what you've done. You spoiled it. You have nobody to blame but yourself. Go sit and think about your actions.
Don't be mean. Rudeness is a vicious cycle, and it has to stop somewhere. Exceptions for things that are funny. Go to the current Competition of the Finest 'Brews! It's a cool place where cool people make cool things.
How I'm posting based on text formatting: Mod Hat Off - Mod Hat Also Off (I'm not a mod)
"It seems your conditions have been met", Grudnik says to Erbert.
"And therefore, with you on board, so have mine. It is decided, I shall undertake this commission of yours, Sur'kil", he says formally accepting.
"I too will need to provision some supplies for delving deep into the jungle. At what time and place shall we meet this pathfinder?", he asks. The others would likely notice that not only is his armour spotless, he also wears clothes that are of excellent quality, certainly not the sort to go trudging through jungles.
"In terms of general equipment for an expedition such as this, I assume your pathfinder will procure the necessary. Tents, climbing equipment if such will be necessary and anything else they deem to be needed", he says to Sur'kil as more of a statement than a question.
"Very well. Meet here tomorrow morning, same time as today's meeting. I will have my pathfinder ready and waiting for you. Procure whatever provisions and supplies you need with this," Sur'kil says as he reaches into the bag of holding and procures six coin purses, each with 200 gold in them. "Now, if you all will excuse me... I will see you tomorrow before you head off."
With that, the man heads out of this room and heads upstairs, no doubt to his personal chambers within this inn.
Before he leaves, Erbert stands and strides forward to Sur’kil and extends his hand upward, saying in the stiffest voice he can muster, “I would be delighted to accompany this group, and your terms seem very agreeable. I will make efforts to procure items that I require and we will sally forth in search of your artifacts tomorrow.” He turns to the rest of the crew, saying “Though I may be diminutive in size, my magical prowess hopefully will make up for any disadvantages that might create. I wish to obtain a mount that would be appropriate for my size. I look forward to our upcoming adventure!” Erbert says with infectious enthusiasm, taking a mock bow, which puts his bulbous nose dangerously close to the ground.
Grudnik nods his head as he mulls over Sur'kil's words.
"First, you can rest assured that by my honour, no word of this will leave my lips to any not present here without your conesnt. Whether I take this commission or not. Atcha ensures this", he says solemnly.
"You have covered most questions, but the matter of a guide is yet to be discussed. Do any here have the skills needed to safely navigate the jungle to this hidden temple?", he asks of the other's congregated together.
"Only a skuurz'taat rushes in without at least attempting to arm themselves with knowledge".
"I don't believe it would be too difficult for us to find ourselves a guide for the jungles. The deal will include travel expenses, will it not? If you have any recommendations for a guide, Sur'kil, that would be much appreciated. I can't speak for the others, but I'm not very familiar with where one would go to find such people in Q'Barra."
Look at what you've done. You spoiled it. You have nobody to blame but yourself. Go sit and think about your actions.
Don't be mean. Rudeness is a vicious cycle, and it has to stop somewhere. Exceptions for things that are funny.
Go to the current Competition of the Finest 'Brews! It's a cool place where cool people make cool things.
How I'm posting based on text formatting: Mod Hat Off - Mod Hat Also Off (I'm not a mod)
Victorin mulls over this new information, considering his options. The Age of Demons was long past and he was no stranger to the jungle or finding lost relics, and the money was hard to beat.
“A guide should not be hard to find. But a competent one that can take us deep in the jungle is another story, most cater to dragonshard prospectors. The lizardfolk are a threat, but some tribes can be bargained with. We will need more information on the location of this ruin, the jungles are dotted with them.” His gaze moves back over to Sur’kil, he still feels that their mysterious benefactor was leaving out information. Insight 11 plus 3.
.
Secret temple, lost secrets, magical gem… Erbert is all in. He sits on the edge of his seat, taking notes, little legs dangling over the edge and subconsciously his legs begin to kick back and forth. He scribbles down every word. There is a gleam in his eye. It is clear, that he is all in, that he feels ready, despite the dangers. “Very good, very good…. I would be glad to weigh in on all things arcane of course. It is my forté. If we will be compensated in said manner and expenses are paid, if we can procure a guide and if we can keep any additional… findings… well then very well. You had me at ‘spherical magic gem.’ I would be glad to join said party and obtain said items, so on and so forth, with all arcane duties that are subsequently necessary.” Little legs kicking furiously, his eyes meet with Sur’kil and he nods, with a grin showing all of his upper teeth. He is interested in the details, but it is clear that in his mind, the cogs are turning….
A wizard is never late, nor is he early, he arrives precisely when he means to.
Silthras looks non-plussed at the optimism expressed by the others, "It took me days to escape the jungle, and that was only a few miles travel," he says slowly. "Being lost there again is not something I would willingly repeat."
He draws a deep breath and stares at his hands, flexing his fingers. "Vine-clogged paths, snakes, insects, not to mention the animals and the lizard-men themselves. You either lose sight of the sun completely or...worse...end up in its direct glare. The only saving grace is that food and water are plentiful."
"I am skilled with maps, and that gives me some ability to navigate from landmarks, but without the sun or stars it would be hard." He looks around and shrugs, "Perhaps with all of us working together, we should be able to find our way. Assuming we have a map?"
He turns to Sur'kil, "I assume that there is no road leading to our destination, do you perhaps have a means by which we could navigate there?"
(( @DM: Silthras has proficiency with Cartographers Kit, which (I assume) means he can take location and bearing etc based on land forms, stars etc. I have no idea how that relates to navigation, however! The docs seem to suggest "Navigator's Tools" are for navigation at sea, but to me they seem tightly linked. Would it give him advantage on Survival/Navigation checks? If so, he'd project a little more confidence! ))
After a moment more thought Silthras adds, "A local guide may be a liability if secrecy is required, but could be invaliable in dealing with the lizard-folk. Do we know anything of them?"
Ancidus takes the information in quietly, and only speaks once the others seem to come to a consensus on undertaking the mission. "If the Lizardfolk use the temple, is it not their relic? What god held dominion over the temple -- there are many who would be jealous of someone who came to take what little power remains in a fading spot of power."
Birgit | Shifter | Sorcerer | Dragonlords
Shayone | Hobgoblin | Sorcerer | Netherdeep
"I have a map that leads to the temple's location, which I transcribed from an ancient tablet found during my own research. A scout I hired indicated that the map is accurate, but they were not prepared to face the lizardfolk that live there. If you feel you need a guide, I could make arrangements with one of them. Or you can use the money I've given you to hire one, if you would prefer that. The lizardfolk of the jungle are a bit of a... mixed bag. Settlers in New Galifar and Hope alike have butted heads with them over territory disputes as often as they have traded with or ignored them. Attempts to communicate with them have not reaped much fruit. They speak a dialect of the draconic tongue that makes no sense to even House Sivis translators. Some of the tribes avoid contact with the settlers entirely. Others regularly raid settlements. I believe this particular section of the jungle is home to a tribe known as the Poison Dusk. They are among the most militant of the tribes, and from what I've heard from survivors of their raids is that they worship a fiend that lurks somewhere in the jungle.
"The temple dates back to the Age of Demons. The dragons and their servants built it on the site where a demon was struck down in those ancient times, supposedly. Whatever god it was built to originally has likely been lost to the ages. But that is no matter. I am not asking you to reclaim the temple. I only wish for you to claim ancient artifacts that are possibly stored within the temple itself. The Poison Dusk are likely unaware that such relics even reside in the temple, considering that they lay in a secluded chamber within it. At the end of the day, the lizardfolk are merely an obstacle. Deal with them as you see fit. The real objective is the acquisition of the relics in the temple."
"Well... my vote is for finding a guide. But anyways, I'm in."
Adran stretches out a hand towards Sur'kil, to finalize the deal.
Look at what you've done. You spoiled it. You have nobody to blame but yourself. Go sit and think about your actions.
Don't be mean. Rudeness is a vicious cycle, and it has to stop somewhere. Exceptions for things that are funny.
Go to the current Competition of the Finest 'Brews! It's a cool place where cool people make cool things.
How I'm posting based on text formatting: Mod Hat Off - Mod Hat Also Off (I'm not a mod)
"I have also heard enough to make my decision", Grudnik says formally on hearing from the others and Sur'kil.
"The map is a boon but might also complicate things. The fact it was verified by a scout means there is at least one other party who is aware of the location we seek. That knowledge, no matter how much you trust this person Sur'kil, would lead me to recommend speed in leaving on this endeavour".
He looks at Sur'kil, as if appraising him.
"You have called us each here for a particular purpose, due to a particular skill set and reputation. That suggests that together we have the best chance of completing the task. Therefore you will have my services on the condition that each of those you called upon also accept, as has Adran the Watcher", after he says this he looks from face to face of the others present.
He last looks upon the face of Silthras, "If you say you can get us to the temple with the aid of a map, I will take you at your word Silthras. Although I sense your hesitancy. If you have any doubt, I would then agree with the Watcher that we should requisition a guide", he concludes.
"Gods do not tend to go quite so easily as that," Ancidus demurs placidly. "But so long as there is no one to lay claim to the objects therein, I have no qualms with seeking the temple, and to ensuring no lasting harm comes to those present."
Birgit | Shifter | Sorcerer | Dragonlords
Shayone | Hobgoblin | Sorcerer | Netherdeep
"Confident?" Silthras considers Grudnik 's for a moment. "Perhaps. But a guide does more than find a place; they also understand which locals can be dealt with and which must be avoided. The know the wildlife and the ways of the forest or jungle. I think we still need one."
He turns to Sur'kil, "If you can find that guide -- you obviously trust them -- then that might be best."
"As to the artifacts; they sound heavy. Stone tablets and all. Would you perhaps have a means of lightening the load when carrying them back, should we need to beat a hasty retreat?"
Victorin stands up, responding to Grudnik “You have my acceptance as well.” He looks to the others “If the group insists on a guide, I recommend procuring the services of one of the scouts that have already confirmed the location. Better than starting from scratch with another.” He turns to Sur’kil “If you can direct us to your scouts, and provide your upfront payment, we can get started. Unless the others have questions that are not satisfied?”
DM: What does know about the Age of Demons or any demon that might have been sealed away in the manner described? History check: 19
Insight check to see if Sur'kil is hiding any knowledge about any who may lay claim to the temple or its contents: 14
Birgit | Shifter | Sorcerer | Dragonlords
Shayone | Hobgoblin | Sorcerer | Netherdeep
"Excellent. I took the potential bulk of the relics into account when concocting this plan, and as such, I will be providing you with one House Cannith standard issue bag of holding to accommodate what you happen to find. You may, of course, use it for your own items, but prioritize storing any relics you find in this bag before considering anything else. I will reach out to my pathfinder and tell them to prepare for an expedition posthaste," Sur'kil says as he produces the aforementioned bag and places it on the nearby table.
Ancidus:
The Age of Demons was so long ago that most of its events have passed from legend into myth. The popular retelling of those stories involves a war between the powerful fiendish entities known as Overlords and a group of champions now known as the Sovereign Host. The Overlords could not be defeated, but they were bound deep within the earth by the power known as the Silver Flame. If a great demon was defeated on the site of this temple, it is most likely that it was too powerful to be destroyed and was bound within Khyber, the Realm Below, instead.
Sur'kil does not seem to be hiding anything. He wholeheartedly believes that the temple is a relic of the Age of Demons and that no great power, divine or otherwise, has laid claim to it aside from the lizardfolk that inhabit it. He seems to believe that the lizardfolk are none the wiser about the relics within.
Silthras nods slowly, "It seems you have planned this well. You have my support."
"But I look forward to seeing the map and meeting the guide you recommend at the soonest opportunity -- if we have questions, getting answers before we leave would be critical."
He leans back in his chair and eats another piece of cured meat, pondering the future. He had not enjoyed his first jungle encounter, but this would be different. A map and a competent team would make a big difference. Nevertheless, provisions would be important.
Pointing to the bag on the table, "I am sure that there are a few things we will need on the journey outward and your bag will be useful for that as well."
"What do you all think?" he asks his new companions, "Spend the day planning and buying provisions, speak to the guide and -- assuming our questions are answered -- leave in the morning?"
Adran nods upon hearing Silthras's suggestion. "If we collect our upfront payment now, then we can spend it as we please, including for travel equipment and armaments. We can come back here later on to discuss with the scout that Sur'kil shall summon, and then rest ourselves to prepare for travel the next dawn." Adran asks both Sur'kil and Victorin, "Do you know the location of any artificers, magic shops, or smithies in Adderport? I'd like to put my funds to good use."
Look at what you've done. You spoiled it. You have nobody to blame but yourself. Go sit and think about your actions.
Don't be mean. Rudeness is a vicious cycle, and it has to stop somewhere. Exceptions for things that are funny.
Go to the current Competition of the Finest 'Brews! It's a cool place where cool people make cool things.
How I'm posting based on text formatting: Mod Hat Off - Mod Hat Also Off (I'm not a mod)
"It seems your conditions have been met", Grudnik says to Erbert.
"And therefore, with you on board, so have mine. It is decided, I shall undertake this commission of yours, Sur'kil", he says formally accepting.
"I too will need to provision some supplies for delving deep into the jungle. At what time and place shall we meet this pathfinder?", he asks. The others would likely notice that not only is his armour spotless, he also wears clothes that are of excellent quality, certainly not the sort to go trudging through jungles.
"In terms of general equipment for an expedition such as this, I assume your pathfinder will procure the necessary. Tents, climbing equipment if such will be necessary and anything else they deem to be needed", he says to Sur'kil as more of a statement than a question.
"Very well. Meet here tomorrow morning, same time as today's meeting. I will have my pathfinder ready and waiting for you. Procure whatever provisions and supplies you need with this," Sur'kil says as he reaches into the bag of holding and procures six coin purses, each with 200 gold in them. "Now, if you all will excuse me... I will see you tomorrow before you head off."
With that, the man heads out of this room and heads upstairs, no doubt to his personal chambers within this inn.
Before he leaves, Erbert stands and strides forward to Sur’kil and extends his hand upward, saying in the stiffest voice he can muster, “I would be delighted to accompany this group, and your terms seem very agreeable. I will make efforts to procure items that I require and we will sally forth in search of your artifacts tomorrow.” He turns to the rest of the crew, saying “Though I may be diminutive in size, my magical prowess hopefully will make up for any disadvantages that might create. I wish to obtain a mount that would be appropriate for my size. I look forward to our upcoming adventure!” Erbert says with infectious enthusiasm, taking a mock bow, which puts his bulbous nose dangerously close to the ground.
A wizard is never late, nor is he early, he arrives precisely when he means to.