"Right. If they were both equally clear and achievable tasks I say we find Gort. But they're not. We know we can trail the Serpents and I'm confident that we can harass, slow, delay or otherwise waylay thier progress. But Gort? Who knows. Maybe if we had a real clue where he was going, or why, specifically. But it is all guesses." Cal speaks as though he's thinking through all their options and forming a firm opinion finally. "We can do the most good following the serpents."

Cal strongly prefers Serpents. Is open to Gort. Actively avoiding the desert.

On the Hunt

As the night stretches on, the party begins to align on their next course of action. Gort, while intriguing, is probably long gone and well on his way to Sembia and they all agree, over the protests of Cal, that a trip into Anauroch is more than they could handle. They decide to pursue the remnants of the Black Serpent Brigade in hopes that they can find more information about the attack and perhaps bring some justice to the people of Shadowdale.

The next day, Shadowdale rises from the ashes of the attack. Townsfolk run about, trying to rebuild and searching for survivors. Outside of the castle, Lord Varden has assembled the remnants of the militia and the military of Shadowdale. Flanked by Captain Relnor and Sir Ironheart, he walks down the line. 

“Yesterday, on a day of celebration, a day of peace, we were attacked. Our homes demolished, our people put to the sword. Today, Shadowdale rises from the ashes. Today, we seek justice against those who would trample us. The Sembians think that they can attack us using their cat’s paws and that we will, as is our nature, sue for peace and accept this as the way of the world. Today, we show them how wrong they are.

I have dispatched riders to Cormyr, Cormanthyr, and the other Dales to spread word of this attack and those behind it. Within the month, we will march to war and before the next Harvest Feast, the banner of Shadowdale will fly over the the pit of avarice and malice that is the vile Sembian capital, Ordulin!”

With this, the soldiers of Shadowdale erupt into raucous cheers. 

The party bids Harben farewell and goes about preparing for their departure.

You may use this time to prepare for your search/journey, gather information, and do anything else you need to in town. We will be playing using rations and hunger. One day of travel will take you two hexes by road, one hex in plains and desert, 1/2 a hex in forest, and 1/3 of a hex in mountains. We will do a survival check at the start of each day to determine whether you get lost, adding another day of travel. (journeying to shadowmantle will actually take 12 days, my mistake)

Seeing as we are undertaking this mission at the behest of Lord Varden, Galdric doesn't think it would be too much to ask for him to supply us for our journey. As such, once his speech is over and he is available, Galdric will approach Varden. 

“An excellent speech my Lord. Speaking of the Sembians, my troupe have discussed it and we have decided to accept your offer and will depart soon to pursue these invaders. However, we have little in the way of provisions. We were hoping that his Lordship would be able to assist us in this matter, to ensure the success of our assigned task.”

Quote from nightbird1219 >>

Seeing as we are undertaking this mission at the behest of Lord Varden, Galdric doesn't think it would be too much to ask for him to supply us for our journey. As such, once his speech is over and he is available, Galdric will approach Varden. 

“An excellent speech my Lord. Speaking of the Sembians, my troupe have discussed it and we have decided to accept your offer and will depart soon to pursue these invaders. However, we have little in the way of provisions. We were hoping that his Lordship would be able to assist us in this matter, to ensure the success of our assigned task.”

As Galdric approaches Lord Varden with his request, Varden's expression is one of deep contemplation, shadowed by the burdens of leadership and the recent turmoil.

"Galdric," Varden starts, his tone more measured than before, reflecting the weight of the situation. "Your initiative in pursuing these invaders is commendable. It is indeed our duty to equip you for this task."

He signals subtly to Captain Relnor, who quickly steps up with a list. Varden continues, his words carefully chosen, "We will provide your party with the necessary provisions for your journey. This includes ample rations to last each of you a month and a selection of healing potions to ensure your wellbeing."

His eyes briefly flicker, betraying a hint of concern, before he regains his composure. "Additionally, we can spare two horses from our stables. Their strength will be vital to your expedition."

There's a slight hesitation before he adds, "I shall also provide you with a sealed letter bearing my seal. It will serve to procure assistance from allies within the Dalelands, should you need it."

His supportive words are genuine, yet there's an unspoken distance, perhaps a deliberate effort to maintain focus on the mission at hand and away from other sensitive matters.

He concludes with a solemn nod, "Your journey is crucial to us all. Shadowdale's hopes are with you. May fortune favor your path." His farewell, while encouraging, is tinged with the complexity of a leader navigating through a maze of challenges and expectations.

((take 5 potions of healing, two horses, a letter bearing the Seal of Shadowdale, and a months worth of rations per party member))

“You are most generous my Lord. We hope to repay your kindness by bringing you news of the Black Serpents’ defeat!”

Galdric still doesn’t trust the lord, but is pleasantly surprised at how freely he gave. Galdric will collect the supplies and distribute them among his companions. Galdric will then approach Horros.

”The Lord has given us 5 potions of healing to divide among a troupe of 7. I suggest you and I abstain from taking them as we have a bite more ability to heal on our own. What day you? I wanted to get your opinion before I passed these out.”

After the group decided on their course of action of hunting down the brigands, Zyzix retires early, bidding everyone a, "Goodnight," in Drax's jovial manner. As he goes through his nightly routine to prep for slumber, his mind races with the events of the day. While he had been on several other official missions since becoming an official member of the Veil, none had been quite as action-packed as today. Many of his prior tasks were primarily infiltration operations, none of which involved violence. He would sneak in under a disguise, do whatever he was supposed to do (usually obtain some vital information), and then sneak out. They were simple tasks, void of any real danger, and Zyzix quite enjoyed not putting himself in harm's way. Yet, there was something... exhilarating about the dangers he faced today. While he didn't participate in any combat, facing the flames of the tavern was battling the primal force of fire in a way. Normally, he never would have done anything so risky, but Drax was supposed to be a kind-hearted character, even if he was a bit pompous and airheaded. After they had rescued the villagers, there was something in their exhausted and grateful expressions that gave Zyzix pause. Remembering the way they looked at him made him feel... something. He couldn't quite put a finger on what it made him feel like. He almost felt warm inside, a little bit... happy? No, that's not the right word. He struggles to describe how he felt after rescuing the villager as sleep slowly begins to override his thoughts. Just before sleep takes him, he realizes the feeling he had, though simple it may be. I felt... good. 

Zyzix rises early in the morning, a habit from his days on the street; when the sun woke up, so did he. He yawns and stretches as the sun begins to peak over the brightening horizon. There was something beautiful about way the sky changed colors when the sun rose, purples and blacks giving away for warm yellows and oranges. After watching the sun rise for a bit, he starts packing up all of his supplies in preparation to depart later today. As his body goes busies itself preparing and cleaning up, his mind is awhirl with thoughts. I need to find someone here who I can trust. Unfortunately, I only slightly know Cal and Bell, and I know next to nothing about the others. I shouldn't have been so preoccupied with my mission so I could have inserted myself a little bit better with the members of the caravan!

Once most of the group is up and going, Zyzix says to everyone, "I believe it would be a good idea to inspect the bodies of the slain brigands to see if we can find any clues upon them. I was planning on going to look them over this morning by myself, but I realized that having another set of eyes would be a great asset. Would anyone care to join me?"

Regardless if anyone decides to come or not, Zyzix sets out soon after his announcement and makes his way into town. He asks around to see where the bodies were gathered and then makes his way over to the corpses. He begins rummaging through their belongings, searching for any clues or other useful items. After he finishes, he selects a human corpse that isn't too badly mangled and begins removing their outer clothing and gear. As he does, he begins memorizing their body and face to use for later. He also keeps an eye out for any tattoos or markings on their body that would identify them as a member of the Black Serpent Brigade. If anybody is with him, he cheerfully explains his actions as he disrobes the corpse. "While I may not be the most capable warrior, I can contribute to the group in other ways. You see, I have decent acting skills. Before I was a glassworker, I was a member of a troupe of thespians back in Waterdeep. One of my fellow actors often wove a bit of magic into our performances, and I learned a bit of magic that allows me to change how I look. If it comes down to it, I can disguise myself as this dead fellow."

Quote from nightbird1219 >>

“You are most generous my Lord. We hope to repay your kindness by bringing you news of the Black Serpents’ defeat!”

Galdric still doesn’t trust the lord, but is pleasantly surprised at how freely he gave. Galdric will collect the supplies and distribute them among his companions. Galdric will then approach Horros.

”The Lord has given us 5 potions of healing to divide among a troupe of 7. I suggest you and I abstain from taking them as we have a bite more ability to heal on our own. What day you? I wanted to get your opinion before I passed these out.”

 Haj overhears the conversation. "I too have a healing ability, although not as advanced as yours, so I am happy to leave my potion in reserve for whoever may need it."

"Also, whilst we travel we should be able to supplement our rations with some foraged food; dried rations may be nutritious but they're not what I would call 'enjoyable'.

Quote from Dimir_MTG >>

---

Once most of the group is up and going, Zyzix says to everyone, "I believe it would be a good idea to inspect the bodies of the slain brigands to see if we can find any clues upon them. I was planning on going to look them over this morning by myself, but I realized that having another set of eyes would be a great asset. Would anyone care to join me?"

Regardless if anyone decides to come or not, Zyzix sets out soon after his announcement and makes his way into town. He asks around to see where the bodies were gathered and then makes his way over to the corpses. He begins rummaging through their belongings, searching for any clues or other useful items. After he finishes, he selects a human corpse that isn't too badly mangled and begins removing their outer clothing and gear. As he does, he begins memorizing their body and face to use for later. He also keeps an eye out for any tattoos or markings on their body that would identify them as a member of the Black Serpent Brigade. If anybody is with him, he cheerfully explains his actions as he disrobes the corpse. "While I may not be the most capable warrior, I can contribute to the group in other ways. You see, I have decent acting skills. Before I was a glassworker, I was a member of a troupe of thespians back in Waterdeep. One of my fellow actors often wove a bit of magic into our performances, and I learned a bit of magic that allows me to change how I look. If it comes down to it, I can disguise myself as this dead fellow."

 

Haj agrees to accompany Zyzix. As they check the bodies for anything useful he speaks; "My people would see your actions as deceptive and dis-honourable, but since I left that life behind and began to travel I have observed that deception is sometimes a useful tool."

He begins to strip another of the corpses. "My features, and the fact that I am unaccustomed to deception will rule me out of this, but I'm sure another may be able to do it if required. Hopefully Bell will be able to perform his mending and make these look less battle stained"

Bell is not in love with the idea of waking up, and immediately setting out, to inspect corpses. But the suspicion lingers, that the mercenaries were hired to start a war. Nevertheless, scientific method demands more than suppositions, even seeming corroborations; he must collect further evidence.

“I’m your huckleberry. But coffee, first, yes?” The scholar had avoided the medical curriculum at university, almost entirely, with the exception of mortuary science. The embalming processes of some ancient civilizations were truly fascinating… And his anthropological studies could help discern the true origins of these brigands, perhaps find clues to their geographical affiliations, at least?

The looks he receives from Drax and Haj, confirm that coffee will have to wait. Perhaps an empty stomach is best for this work, after all. Rolling up his sleeves, he sets about performing the grim task, at hand. He inspects the bodies for scars, tattoos, documents, articles of clothing or armor, unique weapons- anything that might identify them, or tie them to a particular place. Most items with any real value had already been looted, naturally, but he hoped to discover something useful in his Investigations: 8

Once all the supplies have been distributed, Galdric would like to go and find the acolytes again. He would just like to thank them for their assistance (vaguely as to give any spies the impression that he’s taking about yesterday’s battle) and to let them know he’s leaving and where he’s going. He’s also doing this to provide them with one final opportunity to pass on any info they can without causing suspicion.

While at first Taya was unsure how her future would look like after the unexpected dismissal of her service by Harben, fate seemed to provide a new opportunity promptly. Though not very keen to engage with an entire mercenary band - as worn down as they might be - Taya is content that this group of ex-caravan guards formed an unlikely bond. A bond that she is more than happy to cement and nurture. 

She thanks Galdric courteously for the supplied healing potion and stows it carefully in her pack, "I'll bring this to good use, I promise." Then she helps to fetch and pack supplies onto the two horses, "I guess we use them for transport, right?"

In the early hours of the morning, as the town of Shadowdale slowly stirred to life, Zyzix, Haj, and Bell set out on a somber mission to examine the bodies of the fallen mercenaries.

As he sifted through the bodies, Zyzix's keen eye spotted a suitable candidate - a relatively unscathed corpse with a distinct serpent tattoo, a symbol of the Black Serpent Brigade.

Haj unearthed a crucial find - three sets of mercenary uniforms that were relatively undamaged. These garments could prove invaluable, either as disguises for other members of the group or as evidence of the mercenaries' affiliations.

Bell's careful analysis revealed a curious mix of origins among the mercenaries. Some were indeed Sembian, identifiable by specific weapons and items. However, he also noted that most of the mercenaries were not true Sembians. Intriguingly, all of them were adorned in Sembian garb and wielded weapons of Sembian make, but in an exaggerated, almost caricatured manner. It was as if they were trying to emulate an over-the-top version of a Sembian mercenary.

Quote from cyreon >>

While at first Taya was unsure how her future would look like after the unexpected dismissal of her service by Harben, fate seemed to provide a new opportunity promptly. Though not very keen to engage with an entire mercenary band - as worn down as they might be - Taya is content that this group of ex-caravan guards formed an unlikely bond. A bond that she is more than happy to cement and nurture. 

She thanks Galdric courteously for the supplied healing potion and stows it carefully in her pack, "I'll bring this to good use, I promise." Then she helps to fetch and pack supplies onto the two horses, "I guess we use them for transport, right?"

As Taya busies herself with the supplies, the heavy tread of boots on the ground signals the approach of two familiar figures. She looks up to see Thorne and Garrick, the spearmen she fought alongside during the recent siege.

Thorne, his face weathered and beard streaked with gray, steps forward. "Taya, I'm Thorne. Yesterday, fighting alongside you in the siege, that was something else. You've got a way of leading that's... different. Harben never had that. You make choices that matter, not just for coin."

Garrick, with his close-cropped dark hair and piercing gaze, adds, "And I'm Garrick. Never thought our first real fight together would be in a siege. You've got a knack for this, leading in the thick of it. It's rare to see that kind of courage. We're done with the caravan. We want to follow someone who fights for more than just pay."

((two guards have joined the party))

Quote from nightbird1219 >>

Once all the supplies have been distributed, Galdric would like to go and find the acolytes again. He would just like to thank them for their assistance (vaguely as to give any spies the impression that he’s taking about yesterday’s battle) and to let them know he’s leaving and where he’s going. He’s also doing this to provide them with one final opportunity to pass on any info they can without causing suspicion.

Galdric found the acolytes in the midst of hurried preparations. The male acolyte noticed Galdric approaching and stepped forward with a nod of recognition. "Ah, Sir Galdric. I am Caelum," he said, his voice low but clear. Beside him, the female acolyte gave a slight, cautious smile. "And I am Elara," she added, her eyes briefly scanning their surroundings for any eavesdroppers.

"We are departing for Dagger Falls," Caelum whispered, his gaze fixed on Galdric. "The events here in Shadowdale... they're merely the surface of deeper currents."

Elara continued, her voice barely above a whisper, "What unfolds may seem like the machinations of kingdoms, but there are... older forces at play, resonant with a time long past."

Caelum glanced around again before leaning in closer. "Remember the map we provided you," he said cryptically. "The site marked is more than a mere location. It’s a key a to understanding these ancient forces."

Galdric nodded subtly, recalling the map they had given him earlier in secret. He recognized the importance of their words and the need for discretion.

Elara added, "If you seek deeper knowledge, find us in Dagger Falls. There, away from prying eyes, we can speak more freely."

“I thank you for your assistance and your input. Perhaps when my current task is completed, my company can visit Dagger Falls. We may have more information to exchange by then. But until that time, I wish you good fortune and safe travels.”

Galdric shakes both of their hands and takes his leave to rejoin his party. He passes on the acolytes’ warnings as they prepare to leave.

Galdric is ready to depart

Quote from ArlingLongsword >>

Quote from cyreon >>

While at first Taya was unsure how her future would look like after the unexpected dismissal of her service by Harben, fate seemed to provide a new opportunity promptly. Though not very keen to engage with an entire mercenary band - as worn down as they might be - Taya is content that this group of ex-caravan guards formed an unlikely bond. A bond that she is more than happy to cement and nurture. 

She thanks Galdric courteously for the supplied healing potion and stows it carefully in her pack, "I'll bring this to good use, I promise." Then she helps to fetch and pack supplies onto the two horses, "I guess we use them for transport, right?"

 

As Taya busies herself with the supplies, the heavy tread of boots on the ground signals the approach of two familiar figures. She looks up to see Thorne and Garrick, the spearmen she fought alongside during the recent siege.

Thorne, his face weathered and beard streaked with gray, steps forward. "Taya, I'm Thorne. Yesterday, fighting alongside you in the siege, that was something else. You've got a way of leading that's... different. Harben never had that. You make choices that matter, not just for coin."

Garrick, with his close-cropped dark hair and piercing gaze, adds, "And I'm Garrick. Never thought our first real fight together would be in a siege. You've got a knack for this, leading in the thick of it. It's rare to see that kind of courage. We're done with the caravan. We want to follow someone who fights for more than just pay."

((two guards have joined the party))

 

"Nice seeing you again!" Taya looks up surprised to see the two guards approaching her and even more surprised about their praise. "You fought valiantly and together we saved a number of civilians and probably some guards, too. I remember well." She turns to the one that had fallen to the orc's devastating blow and asks, "I see that you are feeling better. I bet Horros saw to your wounds, we're fortunate to have him with us." She makes a welcoming gesture and continues, "You're welcome to join us but I warn you, we are setting out to follow the mercenary band and their leader. If we do encounter them, it could be dangerous. That said, we can use every sword and spear that we can muster and you already have proven your value in battle."

Quote from nightbird1219 >>

“I thank you for your assistance and your input. Perhaps when my current task is completed, my company can visit Dagger Falls. We may have more information to exchange by then. But until that time, I wish you good fortune and safe travels.”

Galdric shakes both of their hands and takes his leave to rejoin his party. He passes on the acolytes’ warnings as they prepare to leave.

Galdric is ready to depart

"Well, I for one think it is definitely worth travelling through Dagger Falls and hear them out. It's practically on the way," Taya offers as a solution for meeting the acolytes and follow the brigade. "Which way we go anyway? Follow the road south and then back north through Dagger Falls, or do we head directly north-west from here, passing by the woods and then crossing the river into Dagger Falls? I'd say we go the direct way, which is probably the way that they take, too."

Taya comments to the others that two more caravan guards wish to join them and proposes that they could be in charge of the horses.

With this Taya is ready to depart.

(As a side note, I'll keep renewing Taya's +1 Armor until I say otherwise) Horros agreed with the notion that he didn't need a healing potion, "I'm a tough son of a gun anyways, If I go down, we've got bigger problems hehe." 

Before leaving the town, Horros would stop by the local smith and seek supplies, "Smith to smith, we're going after the bastards that attacked this town and I know I'll be maintaining our arms and armor. Got any spare supplies we can use for the journey? I ain't got much to pay for em, but a few gold pieces and Moradin's blessing right now, but I can give my word of paying you back and time working with you for payment..." (Persuasion if needed + guidance 3 )

Depending on how the conversation goes, Horros will spend the rest of the time saying his farewells to the villagers he helped heal, giving his blessing and promising to return with good news. He then reunites with the group giving insights on his abilities, "I'm best on the front line, supporting those around me. Outside of combat, I can work on gear that folks need when I have the supplies and time. Obviously, I'm a devout follower of Moradin so I know a thing or two on the spiritual side of things."

After returning from the morning's search, Haj spends his time checking and preparing his gear, saying little.

Haj is ready to depart.

Quote from Vedar >>

Quote from Dimir_MTG >>

---

Once most of the group is up and going, Zyzix says to everyone, "I believe it would be a good idea to inspect the bodies of the slain brigands to see if we can find any clues upon them. I was planning on going to look them over this morning by myself, but I realized that having another set of eyes would be a great asset. Would anyone care to join me?"

Regardless if anyone decides to come or not, Zyzix sets out soon after his announcement and makes his way into town. He asks around to see where the bodies were gathered and then makes his way over to the corpses. He begins rummaging through their belongings, searching for any clues or other useful items. After he finishes, he selects a human corpse that isn't too badly mangled and begins removing their outer clothing and gear. As he does, he begins memorizing their body and face to use for later. He also keeps an eye out for any tattoos or markings on their body that would identify them as a member of the Black Serpent Brigade. If anybody is with him, he cheerfully explains his actions as he disrobes the corpse. "While I may not be the most capable warrior, I can contribute to the group in other ways. You see, I have decent acting skills. Before I was a glassworker, I was a member of a troupe of thespians back in Waterdeep. One of my fellow actors often wove a bit of magic into our performances, and I learned a bit of magic that allows me to change how I look. If it comes down to it, I can disguise myself as this dead fellow."

 

 

Haj agrees to accompany Zyzix. As they check the bodies for anything useful he speaks; "My people would see your actions as deceptive and dis-honourable, but since I left that life behind and began to travel I have observed that deception is sometimes a useful tool."

He begins to strip another of the corpses. "My features, and the fact that I am unaccustomed to deception will rule me out of this, but I'm sure another may be able to do it if required. Hopefully Bell will be able to perform his mending and make these look less battle stained"

 Zyzix nods that Haj's words. "I would much rather weasel my way out of a fight than actually participate in any sort of violence," he comments idly as he takes a closer look at the tattoo, committing it to memory. "I don't necessarily see it as deceptive, but more as a theatrical performance with high stakes," he continues with a grin.

As he continues to rummage around, he watches Haj work out of the corner of his eye. Well, he's a sullen fellow, he thinks. He'll warm up to me eventually. Part of the reason why Drax was such an effective persona is because people often felt comfortable around him because of his affable nature. He was a good guise to get people to confide their secrets and information with him, which was exactly the reason the Veil assigned him to be Drax for this mission. Of course, he was still allowed to assume other forms as needed, but Drax was meant to be his primary form until noted otherwise by the Veil.

Zyzix is ready to skedaddle.