"It is true, we are friends of the Prince, but we are tasked with a great burden that we must address post haste." Zubeki notices the fine stitching of golden thread on the linen dressing of Omala and judges him of fine taste. "What kind of support would you need from us? We might be able to find some time while we're still in Port for the day."
"As I said, I am Omala a master colorist at the dye works. I recently bought some dancing monkey fruit on the black market and used them to make and sell some dyes. Shortly thereafter, I received an iron token. I need to atone for my crime and I seek an audience with Kwayothé, the merchant prince who controls the legal sale of fruit. I fear if I don't go and ask for forgiveness I will surely die for my crimes. I wish for you to come with me. That is all. If he sees me with such people as yourself he may forgive my transgression and I will be spared."
Zubeki swells with excitement hearing that this is a master colorist. His all too important task that he was just given moments ago has already been shuffled to the back of his mind. “Fear not, for you have approached the right man. I shall accompany you for an audience, and if you feel that my presence alone cannot help, my traveling companions are fearsome just in stature” Zubeki proclaims. “I am Zubeki, a master tailor myself, but I am new to this city. Explain why an iron token is to be feared.”
Noting the brightly dressed man's approach the gathering group, Jolly whispers a quick apology to the vines along one of the nearby buildings, and then strides back to the others. He squints and scratches his head, not at all following a good chunk of the conversation. Nevertheless, at the request the giant-kin simply nods and says, "Yes. These ones are not from here, so knowing as much would be good." He admits and gives an affirming nod. "And while this one cannot fully speak for other friends, this one would be more than happy, no-no! More than 'Jolly' to accomadate."With a hearty chuckle and a glance back at the others to see if they got the pun, he goes over to clap a hand on the master colorists in assurance. Or so it was meant to be.
"And mayhaps after, you can tell us more of your home? Like this 'Dancing Monkey Fruit'! Does all that grow here have such curious names?" He gasps, and then squats down so that he is more at eye level. "Th-the big ones! Er, Hmm... Tortle friend back in prison called them 'Dinosaurs', this one thinks? You, uh, know of other fruits they like?" He says excitedly.And what is 'black' market, and why noone can buy from it? Is it cause prince Kwayothe does not like the color of it? Or is it cause its always dark there, and he does not like that?"
Vrak thanks Wakanga for the map. He picks it up and carefully rolls it up and stashes it in his pack.
He then follows the others out. As he exits the business he sees Zubeki speaking with a man. What is going on now?
He approaches the group as the man makes his plea for assistance.
"Perhaps your misdeeds deserve punishment?" He interjects "Yet death seems a strong penalty for such a crime." Vrak recalls the man he met in Malar’s Throat, Juma was his name.
"I will go with you and lend you my aid. But you must behave properly in the future."
"And mayhaps after, you can tell us more of your home? Like this 'Dancing Monkey Fruit'! Does all that grow here have such curious names?" He gasps, and then squats down so that he is more at eye level. "Th-the big ones! Er, Hmm... Tortle friend back in prison called them 'Dinosaurs', this one thinks? You, uh, know of other fruits they like?" He says excitedly. And what is 'black' market, and why noone can buy from it? Is it cause prince Kwayothe does not like the color of it? Or is it cause its always dark there, and he does not like that?"
Omala looks at Jolly confused and stammers a little while answering. "Um, Prince Kwayothe? A black market is a place where Chultans can acquire hard to find items as well as " Omala looks up and down the street and gets a little closer to you. " shall we say items of dubious legality."
He backs away and continues "I didn't know that Dancing Monkey Fruit was on the list on banned items for sale, you can acquire these items from the merchants in the bazaar when I went to go buy some they were out so I asked one of my contacts to get me some. I needed it to make a special order item for a customer. The next morning the iron token of the triceratops showed up at my business."
Omala shudders at the thought and you can see he is very afraid.
"When the society judges that someone has damaged the social fabric of Chult or is on the verge of committing a great wrong, it presents a warning by anonymously delivering an iron token bearing the likeness of a triceratops. It’s up to the marked individual to figure out the meaning of the token and take steps to correct the offending behavior or undo the damage. If the person ignores the warning and persists in offending the society, the Ytepka Society secure permission from the merchant princes to mete out punishment as they see fit, up to and including a sanction. I assume me buying the fruit is the reason for the token. I never break any laws. I make colors and fabrics. I slave all day in my shop for the citizens of Port."
Omala takes a deep breath. "The Ytepka Society, also known as the Triceratops Society, is based in Port Nyanzaru and dedicated to preventing any individual or group from abusing power and upsetting the natural social order. Its members are primarily neutral good Chultans. In many respects, the society’s goals are similar to those of the Harpers. The Ytepka Society was instrumental in liberating Port Nyanzaru from foreign powers and facilitating the rise of the seven merchant princes. Its members now work tirelessly to prevent the Zhentarim and other dubious factions from taking over the government or gaining undue influence. The Ytepkas also work covertly to eliminate the threat from pirates, but they’ve been unable to locate the pirates’ base or track down pirate spies in the city. A handsome reward awaits those who can definitively pinpoint the pirates’ base or capture their ships. I figure maybe they think I had dealt with the pirates and that's why they sent me this message. If I beg the prince for forgiveness maybe they will lift the token."
"By your own words then what do you have to fear? You have received the token. Now take steps to correct the offending behavior or undo the damage. These are your words. Why beg for your life? Stop buying in the black market. Perhaps even buy some of this Dancing Monkey Fruit from a legitimate seller in penance."
“Walk with Omala, we need to gather ourselves at Kaya’s before we can do anything else. I don’t want to speak for my companions, but I feel have to formulate plans about what we do next.” Zubeki strokes his black fleur-de-lis-esque facial hair, which almost springs back into shape once his fingers leave his face. He struts northward while continuing to speak, assuming he is being listened to. “We need to gather supplies and suss out a guide while helping our new friend from an unjust punishment. Omala, who was the customer who needed this special order. Maybe they knew of this ban and are trying to clear out the competition. And that token... “ Zubeki pauses and whips around.“Omala, do you have it on you? May I see it?”
"By your own words then what do you have to fear? You have received the token. Now take steps to correct the offending behavior or undo the damage. These are your words. Why beg for your life? Stop buying in the black market. Perhaps even buy some of this Dancing Monkey Fruit from a legitimate seller in penance."
Omala sighs. "I tried buying from the normal vendor. He was out and told me his next shipment was going to be in a tenday. I couldn't wait. My customer needed his order. I guess you don't know what a sanction is. A sanction is a legal assassination that Merchant Princess Jessamine grants to people that petition if they have a worthy cause. Usually, people that get iron tokens wind up missing or get sent to executioners run."
Zhentarim? Harpers? Pirates!? Aside from the last one, seeing as how the giant-kin had more than a few run-ins with the like over the years, the rest continue to fly over head. So far, in fact, that he has to hold his head a moment to keep his eyes from spinning in his skull. Once steady again, he next turn to the man with a piteous look, only to look sharply over to the dragonborn. "Come now, friend. There is no need to be a toadstool." Jolly reprimands Vrak with a stern look. Though coming from the ever sleep-eyed giant, the effect is lessened, to say the least.
When Zubeki speaks up again, he furrows his brows and tightens his grip on the walking stick. Yet, it is with no more than a half-hearted nod that consent is given as Jolly moves to trail behind the group. "A-ah.... Hmm... Forgive this one. This one is not... Assassination?" He finally gets out, looking very much flustered. "What is this? And what is executioners run? This one is not understanding. Please, worried one. Explain?" He asks, though does shoot a glance at the others expecting at least someone to explain.
“Walk with Omala, we need to gather ourselves at Kaya’s before we can do anything else. I don’t want to speak for my companions, but I feel have to formulate plans about what we do next.” Zubeki strokes his black fluer-de-lis-esque facial hair, which almost springs back into shape once his fingers leaves his face. He struts northward while continuing to speak, assuming he is being listened to. “We need to gather supplies and suss out a guide, while helping our new friend from an unjust punishment. Omala, who was the customer who needed this special order. Maybe they knew of this ban and are trying to clear out competition. And that token... “ Zubeki pauses and whips around. “Omala, do you have it on you? May I see it?”
Omala nods "I have it on me but will not take it out in the open. I do not want people to know I have it. My business will suffer for everyone thinking I am a danger to Chult and it's people. It was some lousy fruit for crying out loud. As for the customer. I do not give out that information. I respect the privacy of all my customers. this one would not try to cripple my business. They are a repeat and loyal customer I have dealt with for years."
You make your way down the block and come to Kaya's House of Repose. As you enter the establishment you smell the fresh aromas of baked loaves of bread and exotic spices. There is a large oaken bar going across the western wall. You figure it must be very expensive since Oak is not usually found in the jungle. A petite Chultun woman stands behind the bar talking to a man that is eating some kind of meat dish with roasted vegetables. He is drinking an Amber colored drink that you have learned is called Tej. A local delicacy that tastes excellent and is very strong but refreshing.
There are 8 tables around the common room and two of them are full of Chultan locals. One table close to the back has an Albino dwarf sitting and eating something. He is 4 feet 5 inches tall and weighs 140 pounds. He carries a wooden maul and his armor is fashioned from the spatulate bones of dinosaurs, and it’s gashed and scarred by weapons, claws, and teeth.
In the middle of the room is a large oaken board that has job postings and Guide advertisements. Along the northern wall is a small stage where a Tabaxi woman is playing the harp. (Performance roll 13) As you take a seat the woman walks up to you with a smile and takes your order. Leaving you to discuss things in private.
Zhentarim? Harpers? Pirates!? Aside from the last one, seeing as how the giant-kin had more than a few run-ins with the like over the years, the rest continue to fly over head. So far, in fact, that he ultimately just giving the man a piteous look before looking to the others. "Come now, friend. There is no need to be a toadstool." Jolly reprimands Vrak, giving the dragonborn a stern look. Though coming from the ever sleep-eyed giant, the effect is lessened, to say the least.
When Zubeki speaks up again, he furrows his brows and tightens his grip on the walking stick. Yet, it is with no more than a half-hearted nod that consent is given as Jolly moves to trail behind the group. "A-ah.... Hmm... Forgive this one. This one is not... Assassination?" He finally gets out, looking very much flustered. "What is this? And what is executioners run? This one is not understanding. Please, worried one. Explain?" He asks, though does shoot a glance at the others expecting at least someone to explain.
"Assassination is where an assassin will come and kill you. Surely you have heard of this before? As for executioners run. Well, the road through the Old City splits around a rectangular, stone-lined pit 15 feet deep, 50 feet wide, and 200 feet long. The original Amnian residents built it as an arena for a highly competitive ball game, and it still provides cheap entertainment for the locals. Velociraptors, panthers, or other hungry beasts (a juvenile Allosaurus is a guaranteed crowd pleaser) are set loose in the pit, then convicted criminals are dropped in at one end. Any criminals who make it alive through the gauntlet of carnivores to the far end of the pit can scramble up knotted ropes and win their freedom, along with the adulation of the crowd. Spectators line the walls for these spectacles — including representatives from every level of Port Nyanzaru society, not just residents of the Old City. Bets are placed on which criminals will survive, which will die, how far runners will get before a beast brings them down, and how many kills each animal will rack up." Omala is getting uncomfortable talking about this but continues.
"A handful of Chultans have become celebrities by surviving multiple dashes through Executioner’s Run. It’s been suggested that some people continue committing crimes solely because a conviction is the only way to get tossed into the pit, and betting is always heaviest on a repeat offender. Occasionally an animal manages to leap or scramble out of the pit and runs amok through the terrified crowd. Moments of such high peril provide a perfect opportunity for bystanders to become heroes in the city and earn favors from the merchant princes."
Chult has a black market? Chult has a secret society? Chult has assassinations on demand? PIRATES?!
Hearing of the death curse and soul absorbing artefacts was bad enough but Tyrgram did not figure that, upon walking out the door, his thoughts would not be clouded by any other than the focus at hand but here he was. His obligation was first and foremost to ridding this land of its undead plague and aiding Miss Syndra Silvane but a man in need could not easily be ignored. Then the practical side of his mind spoke up. Going by the man's story, he willingly broke certain rules and he was given an opportunity to make amends. Good, everyone deserves a second chance, especially in something as trivial as buying fruit. He was however puzzled as to why the man would ask them to accompany him, let alone what their presence could wrought, considering they have been but two days in town. All in all, it sounded like he would get off by paying a fine and perhaps he had asked them to be a witness to this as to not lose credibility. To that extent, having someone imposing like Sir Fancy Robes (Zubeki, was it?) would be more than enough to add weight to the matter.
Tyrgram turned his attention back to the matter at hand. He could not hazard a guess as to how long Miss Silvane was for this earth. He could hope for the best but better be prepared for the worst. Part of that preparation was to find a suitable guide and it just so happened to be that a large oaken board in the middle of this establishment advertising just that.
Tyrgram excused himself from the others and walked on over to the board to see what it had to offer.
The more that was learned about Chult and its culture, the harder it became for the firbolg to smile, let alone keep from questioning reality itself. However, as the group entered the building, the wave of scents and sights slowly but surely give him pause enough to trail to a stop a few feet end. As the hand he had busy massaging his temple falls away, Jolly takes in a deep breathe through his nose, holds it, and then out again.
Though but a ghost of its former self, the lazy smile returns as he carries on the rest of the way to the table. If the seats this time appears as strong as the Oak bar, he'll seat with the rest. Otherwise, whatever seating there is shuffled away before the firbolg pops a squat on the ground with a heavy thump and a drawn out sigh. He waves off any offer of food, still agitated at the moment.
"... Frankly speaking, one called Omala? No. You're customs are not the way of the kin. And even the people of the Moonshae -- though a rough sort at times -- are not so cruel as to starve or so violently tease their friends for the sake of entertainment." He says in a tone verging on angry as he stared the man down. After a tense moment of silence, he huffs and looks away. "But this one is no fool, nor means to be... rude... Sorry." He says awkwardly, glancing back long enough for an apologetic look. "Huh. Do you think that dwarf over there might be a guide?" Jolly asks off-handedly to the remaining group.
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When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
After Zubeki explains how he likes his duck crisped and served with fresh greens, he returns his focus to the table. "Dwarf? I thought that was some kind of ghost of a Duergar who haunted this place. I mean, he looks the part of a rough and tumbled jungle guide." Zubeki then smiles a sly smile and leans towards Omala. "You see, my associates are honorable and believe in justice. I could be persuaded by them that you should be punished by the laws of your land." Zubeki places his hands together in front of him, fingers steepled like a tent. "Unless you have something of value that you could offer us, be it information or supplies we can use on our journey into the jungle, I think you're..." Zubeki lifts his hands to reveal a small golden figurine of Omala with a face of agonizing pain."...out of luck." (Intimidation: 8) Zubeki snaps and dismisses the prestidigitation. The figurine is snuffed out as if it was made of flame, with only gentle wisps of smoke rising into the humid tropical air.
Terrance wanted a great deal to set a plan with his new friends, the Lady did not look like she had much time left. But this man, this man of honor (Can i roll Insight?) who has been hit with this misfortune. Now seeks to reclaim his honor, Terrance could not in good conscience walk away from such an honest plea. He strides up next to the man listening to him explain as his fellow traveling companions questioned him. When there was a lull in the conversation Terrance chimed in with what he hoped was encouragement "This thing, I will do for you. And if I fail, I will see you through these pits. So you see, there is no worry. Besides, it seems a good test of honor this thing you speak of." Terrance smiles broadly at the nervous man and looks to the others seeing if they share in his earnestness to help.
After a moment Terrance speaks to Vrak, whispering "You seem to hold ones Honor in high esteem Dragon-man Vrak, I Terrance do to value the worth of ones self. Let us help this man reclaim what he has lost, then be about our business. Lady Syndra's faith in us must be repaid."
"Assassination is where an assassin will come and kill you. Surely you have heard of this before? As for executioners run. Well, the road through the Old City splits around a rectangular, stone-lined pit 15 feet deep, 50 feet wide, and 200 feet long. The original Amnian residents built it as an arena for a highly competitive ball game, and it still provides cheap entertainment for the locals. Velociraptors, panthers, or other hungry beasts (a juvenile Allosaurus is a guaranteed crowd pleaser) are set loose in the pit, then convicted criminals are dropped in at one end. Any criminals who make it alive through the gauntlet of carnivores to the far end of the pit can scramble up knotted ropes and win their freedom, along with the adulation of the crowd. Spectators line the walls for these spectacles — including representatives from every level of Port Nyanzaru society, not just residents of the Old City. Bets are placed on which criminals will survive, which will die, how far runners will get before a beast brings them down, and how many kills each animal will rack up."Omala is getting uncomfortable talking about this but continues.
"A handful of Chultans have become celebrities by surviving multiple dashes through Executioner’s Run. It’s been suggested that some people continue committing crimes solely because a conviction is the only way to get tossed into the pit, and betting is always heaviest on a repeat offender. Occasionally an animal manages to leap or scramble out of the pit and runs amok through the terrified crowd. Moments of such high peril provide a perfect opportunity for bystanders to become heroes in the city and earn favors from the merchant princes."
Terrance really wants this man to have his honor reclaimed, though earning will always go further than pleading in his opinion. He will walk with him and stand by him as he made his plea. But no tear will be shed if he is denied and sentenced to the Executioner's Run.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Eider, Level 13 Human Abjurer Wizard - Colosseum of Conquest (11W-3L) (Tougher than he looks)
Vrak dips his head slightly at the words Terrance whispers to him. In a whispered voice he answers him. "This man has dishonered himself. But his punishment seems severe for what appears to be a minor offense and yet he appears to truly be in fear. If I can aid him I will. He could prove to be an ally to help us in this strange city if he is in our debt."
Omala watches the golden figurine of himself burst into flame and gulps. His eyes wide with terror, he gets up and bows his head. "It seems you cannot help me after all. I have nothing to offer except my gratitude. I got myself into this mess so I will get myself out. I am sorry to have bothered you." With that Omala dashes out the door not looking back.
As Tyrgram walks over and examines the board he sees a whole lot of information to digest. On one side of the large board are small postcards with pictures of people and a little 'blurb' about them with the word Guides over them, on the other side of the board, it says odd jobs.
There is one post in flowing handwriting that looks out of place on the board.
The great god Ubtao once guided the people of Chult, be he tired of their constant warring and abandoned them. Since then, Chultans have turned to the worship of other gods, some of which were tricksters and deceivers. Ubtao is not pleased and will seek his revenge.
Odd Jobs
You think you're tough? You think you're stronger than everyone else? Do you love to fight? If you think you have what it takes to become a champion and maybe a legend and wish to earn a minimum 50 gold and up then seek out Dengo at the Southern gate in the Coliseum between the hours of 7 am till 11 am
K’lahu is seeking people to help collect owed debts to her. She will pay 10% on each debt collected Seek her out at the Thundering Lizard after 5 pm weeknights
Zindar the Harbormaster is seeking people to hunt down the three pirate captains. Three pirate captains are attacking merchant ships heading to and from the Bay of Chult. The pirate ships are called the Dragonfang, the Emerald Eye, and the Stirge. Zindar has permission from the merchant princes to offer a bounty of 2,000 gp for each pirate ship that is captured and brought into port, and a bonus 500 gp for the capture of each pirate captain.
Help the Lords’ Alliance. Lerek Dashlynd, an agent of the Lords’ Alliance, offers to trade a sailing ship for an accurate map of Chult that shows the exact location of the ruins of Nangalore and Orolunga. Lerek can be found in Kaya's House of Repose
Seeking adventurers for help in clearing out a newly discovered Ruined Temple. I'm offering 100 gold and half the treasure. Seek out Zee in the Thundering Lizard.
The Merchant Princes is offering 5 gold for a pair of ears from each undead killed in the jungle. Bring the gruesome trophies to Ikbar in the Red Bazaar for payment.
Guides
Musharib-Can be found in Kaya's
Salida- Can be found in the Thundering Lizard
Shago- Can be found in Fort Beluarian
Faroul and Gondolo- can be found in the Thundering Lizard
Qawasha and Kupalué- Can be found in Fort Beluarian
Kwilgok- Leave word at either Inn and he will get back to you in a few hours
Vrak looked up as the man suddenly bolted from the inn and disappeared out the door. He then looks over at Zubeki. "So what happened there? He left in a hurry."
Zubeki watches as Omala hurry out and shrugs. "Omala couldn't afford our services, but now I can focus. I am fine with any guide upon that board, though I am not entirely interested in fulfilling their quests for them. If we are worried about time, we can just approach Musharib now. And if we feel like we'll run into Flaming Fist territory, maybe we stick with a guide from Fort Beluarian, but that is a few days travel north."
"As we don't have the first clue on where to start other than 'The Jungle', we're going to need to get out of Port and start exploring the camps and forts that are deeper down the rivers. I've heard the Order of the Gauntlet has been shipping soldiers and supplies constantly up the Soshenstar River, maybe we can take a shortcut with them"
Zubeki watches as Omala hurry out and shrugs. "Omala couldn't afford our services, but now I can focus. I am fine with any guide upon that board, though I am not entirely interested in fulfilling their quests for them. If we are worried about time, we can just approach Musharib now. And if we feel like we'll run into Flaming Fist territory, maybe we stick with a guide from Fort Beluarian, but that is a few days travel north."
"As we don't have the first clue on where to start other than 'The Jungle', we're going to need to get out of Port and start exploring the camps and forts that are deeper down the rivers. I've heard the Order of the Gauntlet has been shipping soldiers and supplies constantly up the Soshenstar River, maybe we can take a shortcut with them"
"I agree. I thought that Mezro may be a place to go, but hearing it has been cleared out it is unlikely that we will find what we seek there. I also have no interest in going north to deal with the Flaming Fist. The ruined city of Orolunga is of interest to me and that is south. If we could go down river with the Order that would be safer and save us time. We could then explore from there. We would still need a guide though."
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"As I said, I am Omala a master colorist at the dye works. I recently bought some dancing monkey fruit on the black market and used them to make and sell some dyes. Shortly thereafter, I received an iron token. I need to atone for my crime and I seek an audience with Kwayothé, the merchant prince who controls the legal sale of fruit. I fear if I don't go and ask for forgiveness I will surely die for my crimes. I wish for you to come with me. That is all. If he sees me with such people as yourself he may forgive my transgression and I will be spared."
DM Tomb of Annihilation X2
DM Curse of Strahd
Redleaf Moutain Dwarf Circle of land(Moutain) Druid
Zubeki swells with excitement hearing that this is a master colorist. His all too important task that he was just given moments ago has already been shuffled to the back of his mind. “Fear not, for you have approached the right man. I shall accompany you for an audience, and if you feel that my presence alone cannot help, my traveling companions are fearsome just in stature” Zubeki proclaims. “I am Zubeki, a master tailor myself, but I am new to this city. Explain why an iron token is to be feared.”
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
Vrak thanks Wakanga for the map. He picks it up and carefully rolls it up and stashes it in his pack.
He then follows the others out. As he exits the business he sees Zubeki speaking with a man. What is going on now?
He approaches the group as the man makes his plea for assistance.
"Perhaps your misdeeds deserve punishment?" He interjects "Yet death seems a strong penalty for such a crime." Vrak recalls the man he met in Malar’s Throat, Juma was his name.
"I will go with you and lend you my aid. But you must behave properly in the future."
Omala looks at Jolly confused and stammers a little while answering. "Um, Prince Kwayothe? A black market is a place where Chultans can acquire hard to find items as well as " Omala looks up and down the street and gets a little closer to you. " shall we say items of dubious legality."
He backs away and continues "I didn't know that Dancing Monkey Fruit was on the list on banned items for sale, you can acquire these items from the merchants in the bazaar when I went to go buy some they were out so I asked one of my contacts to get me some. I needed it to make a special order item for a customer. The next morning the iron token of the triceratops showed up at my business."
Omala shudders at the thought and you can see he is very afraid.
"When the society judges that someone has damaged the social fabric of Chult or is on the verge of committing a great wrong, it presents a warning by anonymously delivering an iron token bearing the likeness of a triceratops. It’s up to the marked individual to figure out the meaning of the token and take steps to correct the offending behavior or undo the damage. If the person ignores the warning and persists in offending the society, the Ytepka Society secure permission from the merchant princes to mete out punishment as they see fit, up to and including a sanction. I assume me buying the fruit is the reason for the token. I never break any laws. I make colors and fabrics. I slave all day in my shop for the citizens of Port."
Omala takes a deep breath. "The Ytepka Society, also known as the Triceratops Society, is based in Port Nyanzaru and dedicated to preventing any individual or group from abusing power and upsetting the natural social order. Its members are primarily neutral good Chultans. In many respects, the society’s goals are similar to those of the Harpers. The Ytepka Society was instrumental in liberating Port Nyanzaru from foreign powers and facilitating the rise of the seven merchant princes. Its members now work tirelessly to prevent the Zhentarim and other dubious factions from taking over the government or gaining undue influence. The Ytepkas also work covertly to eliminate the threat from pirates, but they’ve been unable to locate the pirates’ base or track down pirate spies in the city. A handsome reward awaits those who can definitively pinpoint the pirates’ base or capture their ships. I figure maybe they think I had dealt with the pirates and that's why they sent me this message. If I beg the prince for forgiveness maybe they will lift the token."
DM Tomb of Annihilation X2
DM Curse of Strahd
Redleaf Moutain Dwarf Circle of land(Moutain) Druid
"By your own words then what do you have to fear? You have received the token. Now take steps to correct the offending behavior or undo the damage. These are your words. Why beg for your life? Stop buying in the black market. Perhaps even buy some of this Dancing Monkey Fruit from a legitimate seller in penance."
“Walk with Omala, we need to gather ourselves at Kaya’s before we can do anything else. I don’t want to speak for my companions, but I feel have to formulate plans about what we do next.” Zubeki strokes his black fleur-de-lis-esque facial hair, which almost springs back into shape once his fingers leave his face. He struts northward while continuing to speak, assuming he is being listened to. “We need to gather supplies and suss out a guide while helping our new friend from an unjust punishment. Omala, who was the customer who needed this special order. Maybe they knew of this ban and are trying to clear out the competition. And that token... “ Zubeki pauses and whips around. “Omala, do you have it on you? May I see it?”
Omala sighs. "I tried buying from the normal vendor. He was out and told me his next shipment was going to be in a tenday. I couldn't wait. My customer needed his order. I guess you don't know what a sanction is. A sanction is a legal assassination that Merchant Princess Jessamine grants to people that petition if they have a worthy cause. Usually, people that get iron tokens wind up missing or get sent to executioners run."
DM Tomb of Annihilation X2
DM Curse of Strahd
Redleaf Moutain Dwarf Circle of land(Moutain) Druid
Zhentarim? Harpers? Pirates!? Aside from the last one, seeing as how the giant-kin had more than a few run-ins with the like over the years, the rest continue to fly over head. So far, in fact, that he has to hold his head a moment to keep his eyes from spinning in his skull. Once steady again, he next turn to the man with a piteous look, only to look sharply over to the dragonborn. "Come now, friend. There is no need to be a toadstool." Jolly reprimands Vrak with a stern look. Though coming from the ever sleep-eyed giant, the effect is lessened, to say the least.
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
Omala nods "I have it on me but will not take it out in the open. I do not want people to know I have it. My business will suffer for everyone thinking I am a danger to Chult and it's people. It was some lousy fruit for crying out loud. As for the customer. I do not give out that information. I respect the privacy of all my customers. this one would not try to cripple my business. They are a repeat and loyal customer I have dealt with for years."
You make your way down the block and come to Kaya's House of Repose. As you enter the establishment you smell the fresh aromas of baked loaves of bread and exotic spices. There is a large oaken bar going across the western wall. You figure it must be very expensive since Oak is not usually found in the jungle. A petite Chultun woman stands behind the bar talking to a man that is eating some kind of meat dish with roasted vegetables. He is drinking an Amber colored drink that you have learned is called Tej. A local delicacy that tastes excellent and is very strong but refreshing.
There are 8 tables around the common room and two of them are full of Chultan locals. One table close to the back has an Albino dwarf sitting and eating something. He is 4 feet 5 inches tall and weighs 140 pounds. He carries a wooden maul and his armor is fashioned from the spatulate bones of dinosaurs, and it’s gashed and scarred by weapons, claws, and teeth.
In the middle of the room is a large oaken board that has job postings and Guide advertisements. Along the northern wall is a small stage where a Tabaxi woman is playing the harp. (Performance roll 13) As you take a seat the woman walks up to you with a smile and takes your order. Leaving you to discuss things in private.
DM Tomb of Annihilation X2
DM Curse of Strahd
Redleaf Moutain Dwarf Circle of land(Moutain) Druid
"Assassination is where an assassin will come and kill you. Surely you have heard of this before? As for executioners run. Well, the road through the Old City splits around a rectangular, stone-lined pit 15 feet deep, 50 feet wide, and 200 feet long. The original Amnian residents built it as an arena for a highly competitive ball game, and it still provides cheap entertainment for the locals. Velociraptors, panthers, or other hungry beasts (a juvenile Allosaurus is a guaranteed crowd pleaser) are set loose in the pit, then convicted criminals are dropped in at one end. Any criminals who make it alive through the gauntlet of carnivores to the far end of the pit can scramble up knotted ropes and win their freedom, along with the adulation of the crowd. Spectators line the walls for these spectacles — including representatives from every level of Port Nyanzaru society, not just residents of the Old City. Bets are placed on which criminals will survive, which will die, how far runners will get before a beast brings them down, and how many kills each animal will rack up." Omala is getting uncomfortable talking about this but continues.
"A handful of Chultans have become celebrities by surviving multiple dashes through Executioner’s Run. It’s been suggested that some people continue committing crimes solely because a conviction is the only way to get tossed into the pit, and betting is always heaviest on a repeat offender. Occasionally an animal manages to leap or scramble out of the pit and runs amok through the terrified crowd. Moments of such high peril provide a perfect opportunity for bystanders to become heroes in the city and earn favors from the merchant princes."
This was said before you got to kaya's
DM Tomb of Annihilation X2
DM Curse of Strahd
Redleaf Moutain Dwarf Circle of land(Moutain) Druid
Chult has a black market?
Chult has a secret society?
Chult has assassinations on demand?
PIRATES?!
Hearing of the death curse and soul absorbing artefacts was bad enough but Tyrgram did not figure that, upon walking out the door, his thoughts would not be clouded by any other than the focus at hand but here he was. His obligation was first and foremost to ridding this land of its undead plague and aiding Miss Syndra Silvane but a man in need could not easily be ignored. Then the practical side of his mind spoke up. Going by the man's story, he willingly broke certain rules and he was given an opportunity to make amends. Good, everyone deserves a second chance, especially in something as trivial as buying fruit. He was however puzzled as to why the man would ask them to accompany him, let alone what their presence could wrought, considering they have been but two days in town. All in all, it sounded like he would get off by paying a fine and perhaps he had asked them to be a witness to this as to not lose credibility. To that extent, having someone imposing like Sir Fancy Robes (Zubeki, was it?) would be more than enough to add weight to the matter.
Tyrgram turned his attention back to the matter at hand. He could not hazard a guess as to how long Miss Silvane was for this earth. He could hope for the best but better be prepared for the worst. Part of that preparation was to find a suitable guide and it just so happened to be that a large oaken board in the middle of this establishment advertising just that.
Tyrgram excused himself from the others and walked on over to the board to see what it had to offer.
William Brackwater: Human Fighter - The Windward Isles
Tyrgram, the Butterfly Knight: Dwarf Warlock - Secret of Greenwold
Iòlinder Corrach: Half Elf War Cleric - Allansia Adventure
Valerius Sergius Publius: Dhampir Paladin - Vae Victus
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
After Zubeki explains how he likes his duck crisped and served with fresh greens, he returns his focus to the table. "Dwarf? I thought that was some kind of ghost of a Duergar who haunted this place. I mean, he looks the part of a rough and tumbled jungle guide." Zubeki then smiles a sly smile and leans towards Omala. "You see, my associates are honorable and believe in justice. I could be persuaded by them that you should be punished by the laws of your land." Zubeki places his hands together in front of him, fingers steepled like a tent. "Unless you have something of value that you could offer us, be it information or supplies we can use on our journey into the jungle, I think you're..." Zubeki lifts his hands to reveal a small golden figurine of Omala with a face of agonizing pain. "...out of luck." (Intimidation: 8) Zubeki snaps and dismisses the prestidigitation. The figurine is snuffed out as if it was made of flame, with only gentle wisps of smoke rising into the humid tropical air.
"Assassination is where an assassin will come and kill you. Surely you have heard of this before? As for executioners run. Well, the road through the Old City splits around a rectangular, stone-lined pit 15 feet deep, 50 feet wide, and 200 feet long. The original Amnian residents built it as an arena for a highly competitive ball game, and it still provides cheap entertainment for the locals. Velociraptors, panthers, or other hungry beasts (a juvenile Allosaurus is a guaranteed crowd pleaser) are set loose in the pit, then convicted criminals are dropped in at one end. Any criminals who make it alive through the gauntlet of carnivores to the far end of the pit can scramble up knotted ropes and win their freedom, along with the adulation of the crowd. Spectators line the walls for these spectacles — including representatives from every level of Port Nyanzaru society, not just residents of the Old City. Bets are placed on which criminals will survive, which will die, how far runners will get before a beast brings them down, and how many kills each animal will rack up." Omala is getting uncomfortable talking about this but continues.
"A handful of Chultans have become celebrities by surviving multiple dashes through Executioner’s Run. It’s been suggested that some people continue committing crimes solely because a conviction is the only way to get tossed into the pit, and betting is always heaviest on a repeat offender. Occasionally an animal manages to leap or scramble out of the pit and runs amok through the terrified crowd. Moments of such high peril provide a perfect opportunity for bystanders to become heroes in the city and earn favors from the merchant princes."
Terrance really wants this man to have his honor reclaimed, though earning will always go further than pleading in his opinion. He will walk with him and stand by him as he made his plea. But no tear will be shed if he is denied and sentenced to the Executioner's Run.
Eider, Level 13 Human Abjurer Wizard - Colosseum of Conquest (11W-3L) (Tougher than he looks)
Vrak dips his head slightly at the words Terrance whispers to him. In a whispered voice he answers him. "This man has dishonered himself. But his punishment seems severe for what appears to be a minor offense and yet he appears to truly be in fear. If I can aid him I will. He could prove to be an ally to help us in this strange city if he is in our debt."
Omala watches the golden figurine of himself burst into flame and gulps. His eyes wide with terror, he gets up and bows his head. "It seems you cannot help me after all. I have nothing to offer except my gratitude. I got myself into this mess so I will get myself out. I am sorry to have bothered you." With that Omala dashes out the door not looking back.
As Tyrgram walks over and examines the board he sees a whole lot of information to digest. On one side of the large board are small postcards with pictures of people and a little 'blurb' about them with the word Guides over them, on the other side of the board, it says odd jobs.
There is one post in flowing handwriting that looks out of place on the board.
Odd Jobs
You think you're tough? You think you're stronger than everyone else? Do you love to fight? If you think you have what it takes to become a champion and maybe a legend and wish to earn a minimum 50 gold and up then seek out Dengo at the Southern gate in the Coliseum between the hours of 7 am till 11 am
K’lahu is seeking people to help collect owed debts to her. She will pay 10% on each debt collected Seek her out at the Thundering Lizard after 5 pm weeknights
Zindar the Harbormaster is seeking people to hunt down the three pirate captains. Three pirate captains are attacking merchant ships heading to and from the Bay of Chult. The pirate ships are called the Dragonfang, the Emerald Eye, and the Stirge. Zindar has permission from the merchant princes to offer a bounty of 2,000 gp for each pirate ship that is captured and brought into port, and a bonus 500 gp for the capture of each pirate captain.
Help the Lords’ Alliance. Lerek Dashlynd, an agent of the Lords’ Alliance, offers to trade a sailing ship for an accurate map of Chult that shows the exact location of the ruins of Nangalore and Orolunga. Lerek can be found in Kaya's House of Repose
Seeking adventurers for help in clearing out a newly discovered Ruined Temple. I'm offering 100 gold and half the treasure. Seek out Zee in the Thundering Lizard.
The Merchant Princes is offering 5 gold for a pair of ears from each undead killed in the jungle. Bring the gruesome trophies to Ikbar in the Red Bazaar for payment.
Guides
Musharib-Can be found in Kaya's
Salida- Can be found in the Thundering Lizard
Shago- Can be found in Fort Beluarian
Faroul and Gondolo- can be found in the Thundering Lizard
Qawasha and Kupalué- Can be found in Fort Beluarian
Kwilgok- Leave word at either Inn and he will get back to you in a few hours
Eeyal-Can be found in Fort Beluarian
DM Tomb of Annihilation X2
DM Curse of Strahd
Redleaf Moutain Dwarf Circle of land(Moutain) Druid
Vrak looked up as the man suddenly bolted from the inn and disappeared out the door. He then looks over at Zubeki. "So what happened there? He left in a hurry."
Zubeki watches as Omala hurry out and shrugs. "Omala couldn't afford our services, but now I can focus. I am fine with any guide upon that board, though I am not entirely interested in fulfilling their quests for them. If we are worried about time, we can just approach Musharib now. And if we feel like we'll run into Flaming Fist territory, maybe we stick with a guide from Fort Beluarian, but that is a few days travel north."
"As we don't have the first clue on where to start other than 'The Jungle', we're going to need to get out of Port and start exploring the camps and forts that are deeper down the rivers. I've heard the Order of the Gauntlet has been shipping soldiers and supplies constantly up the Soshenstar River, maybe we can take a shortcut with them"
"I agree. I thought that Mezro may be a place to go, but hearing it has been cleared out it is unlikely that we will find what we seek there. I also have no interest in going north to deal with the Flaming Fist. The ruined city of Orolunga is of interest to me and that is south. If we could go down river with the Order that would be safer and save us time. We could then explore from there. We would still need a guide though."