Of course when Tyrgram comes by he will give the would-be 'knight' a nod in greeting, as well as his full attention. "Hm! You did well, youngling. In spite of promises and the like, it would behooves not to act in haste, lest we rush headlong to our deaths." He nods sagely, then cants his head. "That said, have you learned anything else personally we should be aware of before setting off. Also, have you spoken with our new companions?"
'Not much.' Tyrgram says. 'I hope that our would-be guide will fill us in on that.' He gives a nod towards Jirani. 'Keep an eye on that one. He's...' He shrugs lightly and continues in an uncertain voice, 'special. The elf lady is the strong but silent type as far as I can tell. '
Naivara slowly looks towards where Vrak was looking, tilting her head at the Firbolg and the man Tyrgram had approached, before following Vrak over. She leans slightly against the bar, having relaxed the slightest bit around Vrak and Jirani, a new tension set at being close to others she could not remember the name of. However, remembering the descriptions she was given she knew these two were also members of this alleged band of adventurers. With a slight sigh, she realizes this is all six of them and looks at them all. She waits for someone to speak to her first, still distancing herself, if not in body then in mind.
"Not a phrase often used for the Unseelie." Jolly comments on offhandedly as the pary re-assembled once more. As one to rarely speak first, the firbolg will wait in complete ease and silence until Vrak has given introductions, as well as spoken his piece about the guide. Even then, rather than comment on the news first, he'll turn to elf. In what can best be described as a perfect blend of softly spoken French (or at least its equivalent in the world), the whispered yet vibrant and warm tongue from the meeting with Wakanga, and something more so communicated with the off-handed gesture or look, he will say something in elvish that any studied or native speaker may recognize as antiquated than its more 'modern' dialect.
"Be not so guarded o' sister of wolves and exuberant ones. While the land may be unfamiliar to you, friends have been found, as well as nice song to enjoy the long walk."He pauses for a moment to let the words sink in, and then with a toothy smile add, "But if words are not enough, set the dance that these ones are to step to, so that you may rekindle your spirit, if for but a breathe of the moon."
With all that said, he'll wait, gauging Naivara's reaction before looking to the tiefling next. "Hm... No, now is not the time for that. Dragon man... uhm... Vrak, you were called, yes? Sorry, not used to 'names'. *clears throat* To be frank, though you and are new companion here have been thorough, this one still finds himself somewhat ill at ease with this Salinda. At the risk of encounter the flaming fist, this one would rather not risk an incident on one of her 'secret' paths should she find our unique lot... wanting." He admits while absently pouring some of the water on his head. "Then again, this one here might have found a decent, uhm… 'trial'. One that will get most of us more accustomed to this environment without traveling too far... Hopefully." He says, pulling Tygram into a surprise side-hug.
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When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
Naivara was completely caught off guard with Jolly's words and looks at him, wide eyed in both wonder and shock. It takes her a moment to react but the faintest of smiles grace her features and she relaxes just slightly. In elvish she replies,
"I am not quite use to traveling with so many others as I am usually on my own. I barely know all of you but I do trust that given some time together I will adjust." She gives Jolly a rather rare smile, a toothy grin of her own.
Naivara then goes silent and listens to the others talk about the guides, not truly caring who they picked at all. Her mind at ease just for a moment thanks to the Firbolg's warm friendliness, not many had been kind to her in the past. She questions the last time she had been at ease like this, but then shrugs off the thought. Turning her full attention towards the others conversation.
'Not much.' Tyrgram says. 'I hope that our would-be guide will fill us in on that.' He gives a nod towards Jirani. 'Keep an eye on that one. He's...' He shrugs lightly and continues in an uncertain voice, 'special. The elf lady is the strong but silent type as far as I can tell. '
"Wait... is that eight of us now? Maybe this won't be as hard as I thought" Zubeki sloshes the last of the tej down and slides off his stool. "I'll go introduce myself then"
Naivara slowly looks towards where Vrak was looking, tilting her head at the Firbolg and the man Tyrgram had approached, before following Vrak over. She leans slightly against the bar, having relaxed the slightest bit around Vrak and Jirani, a new tension set at being close to others she could not remember the name of. However, remembering the descriptions she was given she knew these two were also members of this alleged band of adventurers. With a slight sigh, she realizes this is all six of them and looks at them all. She waits for someone to speak to her first, still distancing herself, if not in body then in mind.
Zubeki flattens down the creases in his coat and walks towards the high elf. He notices the solitary nature and holds back on a grand introduction. "So it seems we are companions on this adventure. My name is Zubeki and I'll be the group's master of the arcane, but more importantly, I am a master tailor. If you ever need help mending or cleaning your outfits, I am your wizard. May I ask will you be bringing might or magic to our party?"Zubeki's smile isn't as wide as when he introduces himself to royalty, but it is sincere.
With all that said, he'll wait, gauging Naivara's reaction before looking to the tiefling next. "Hm... No, now is not the time for that. Dragon man... uhm... Vrak, you were called, yes? Sorry, not used to 'names'. *clears throat* To be frank, though you and are new companion here have been thorough, this one still finds himself somewhat ill at ease with this Salinda. At the risk of encounter the flaming fist, this one would rather not risk an incident on one of her 'secret' paths should she find our unique lot... wanting." He admits while absently pouring some of the water on his head. "Then again, this one here might have found a decent, uhm… 'trial'. One that will get most of us more accustomed to this environment without traveling too far... Hopefully." He says, pulling Tygram into a surprise side-hug.
'What is it with Chult and hugs?!'
Tyrgram tries to squirm his way out of Jolly's embrace but with the height and weight advantage the Firbolg has over him, it is a near fruitless endeavour. With his shoulders and elbows squeezed together, he decides to just bear it out and inform the others on what Jolly is implying. 'I kinda sorta signed us up to help Zee,' He waggles his chin at the Chultan woman a table over as he can't move his arms, 'To help her clear out the ruins of a temple. Now before you get all huffy at me: it pays a hundred gold coins, we get half of whatever we find and it's only a three day journey to get there.' Tyrgram takes a deep breath to keep his ribcage from being compressed. 'Look, it's good coin and I figured it to do well to build up some goodwill around town. And like the big guy says,' Tyrgram shakes his head at Jolly, 'It's a good way to get our feet wet before we delve into the jungle for who knows how long.'
With a little bit of effort, Tyrgram manages to turn his head and look Jolly in the face. 'Please let me go?' He asks with what he hopes aren't too much of puppy dog eyes.
Zubeki flattens down the creases in his coat and walks towards the high elf. He notices the solitary nature and holds back on a grand introduction. "So it seems we are companions on this adventure. My name is Zubeki and I'll be the group's master of the arcane, but more importantly, I am a master tailor. If you ever need help mending or cleaning your outfits, I am your wizard. May I ask will you be bringing might or magic to our party?"Zubeki's smile isn't as wide as when he introduces himself to royalty, but it is sincere.
Naivara looks at Zubeki, no longer all that tense she lightly straightens her posture and puts her hands together. "I am Naivara, and I'll be bringing a little bit of magic of my own. Though my greataxe and dagger will likely be used more than a single spell I know." She speaks in a rather soft tone without the distancing edge to it, though she does not say more about herself. She is not quite comfortable with giving others information about herself (aside from her name) yet.
Zubeki raises his staff in the air, making gestures to surround him. "Let us gather together and converse about our next steps, the sunlight burns and we shouldn't doddle, no matter the next task. Let us share our knowledge together about how we should prepare."
The giant-kin quiets on that short and almost whispered note, but his chest swells in pride and happiness, crushing poor Tyrgram that much more. Hearing the request, Jolly taps his noggin a few times, feigning deep thought over Tyr's inquiry. But it's only a few seconds more of awkward hugging before the giant lets go with a soft chuckle and a pat on the back. For the most part after, he will sit back and listen, seeming to casually enjoy the exchanges without much fuss or comment.
Zubeki raises his staff in the air, making gestures to surround him. "Let us gather together and converse about our next steps, the sunlight burns and we shouldn't doddle, no matter the next task. Let us share our knowledge together about how we should prepare."
*Translated from Elvish
"Six." Jolly clarifies, sounding somewhat mystified after hearing Zubeki's elvish. Fortunately, he is not at so loss for words as to keep from clarifying things. "This one knows not where the other two have snuck off to, but suspects if they are to aid us, it'll indirect... And possibly, not for a good deal of time." He offers as a condolence as he leaned back in his seat. Blessed be the tavern owner's foresight in accommodating the large clientele that no doubt frequent the place.
*Translated from Elvish
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When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
Vrak listened to the pros and cons of each guide they had met.
"I say we hire the dwarf, Musharib. I feel more comfortable with him. We can retain his services yet today, gather the supplies he recommends and begin in the morning. Although I am not here to be a treasure hunter, the item we seek could be anywhere. We could begin with this job Tyrgram has found. We must seek clues and search ruins and mines. We would only be 3 days out. We will learn what the jungle is like first hand, finish the work and return to town to resupply and leave again with more knowledge than we have now."
Vrak looks to the others to see what they have to say. A decision needed to be made.
"Aye, I vote for Musharib too. He grew up in this jungle and his clan still thrives in it. He has also given us a lot of information for free, and I want to know what else he knows."
When the conversation was over Jirani got up and glanced in the direction the dragonborn was walking, spotting the two men at the bar next to Tyrgram. "So these are the magnificent two." The bronze tiefling greeted in cheer, offering a theatrical bow with outstretched hands before straightening up. His golden eyes moved to look at the firbolg in all his glory. "You must be Jolly. You look exactly like the force of nature I've envisioned you as. Kind, but fair."He then turned towards the man with the very sophisticated and handsome dress. "Zubeki, am I right? I liked the little I heard about you from Silvane, but I must say you're even more stunning than her words gave credit. I'm Jirani, and it's a pleasure to meet you all."Given that he and Naivara had joined their ranks a bit haphazardly, it wasn't surprising that their knowledge about the current situation wasn't quite as vast. "Would you care to enlighten me about Musharib? I've only met with Salinda, so I'm not going to pretend like I've got a very good grasp of the guides so far."
As your group is talking amongst yourselves you hear a person at the bar talking to his friend "Some city folk were expecting the arrival of a Halruaan airship called the Star Goddess. It never arrived. I bet it crashed in the jungle somewhere."
"Yup, I also heard that the airship was carrying some precious gems and art objects that them people found in Arghu."
"Arghu? Where is that?"
"How would I know. I guess it's one of them lost cities people are always discovering out in the jungle. You'd never catch me going out there."
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
"Hm. This one feels more Excited, actually. But the compliments are appreciated from one called Jirani." The Firbolg smiles and bows his head to the Tiefling. "The one known as Musharib is an 'albino' dwarf native, a guide, and is very, very kind and honorable and honest. Oh! And he has big hammer, and is guide working under same prince as all guides. But, uhm--" He glances off to the others. "Others probably explain better. Either way, this one will vote for him as well. He is good people, as they say, yes?" Jolly ends on that note chuckling and settling in to observe again.
Of course after hearing word of the Star Goddess however, he'll listen in for a moment or two before excusing himself from the party. As he turns away, with a snap of his fingers magical mist will seep out from the greenery growing from him, enveloping and masking him for but a few seconds, then fade out of existence. What now strode towards the conversing bar folk is... well, can best be described as human Jirani, though dark-skinned like so many chultans, almost Niavara size in height, and in place of jewelry the tiefling wore, his clothing was more garish color and loose-fitting.
"Greetings friends! And apologies, for this spirit here could not help but overhear. But, you know of Star Goddess, yes? Maybe even things of its crew, or what might make it crash in the jungle? Inarij, by the way." He asks, thoughtlessly flitting between flamboyant and curious to concerned and a little less... Jolly. In fact, one can say he was more on the attentive side than usual. A possible side-effect of invoking more of his native firbolg magic, perhaps?
Tyrgram decided to chime in. 'I'm fine with Musharib. He is motivated to reclaim his home from these Firenewts which is an honourable endeavour. Going by his looks and scars, he has also been in his fair share of scrapes so I think he'll know what to do should we run into anything out there. Besides,' Tyrgram lowers his voice and leans a little bit in. 'Salida's card was just her bad-mouthing the other guides and we don't need that kind of negativity in the group.'
"Greetings friends! And apologies, for this spirit here could not help but overhear. But, you know of Star Goddess, yes? Maybe even things of its crew, or what might make it crash in the jungle? Inarij, by the way." He asks, thoughtlessly flitting between flamboyant and curious to concerned and a little less... Jolly. In fact, one can say he was more on the attentive side than usual. A possible side-effect of invoking more of his native firbolg magic, perhaps?
Vrak looks at the others. Hope is in his eyes as it looks like they have come to a decision. Its time to get started.
"OK, let's head back to Kaya's. I will let the dwarf know that we wish to aid him in his quest. Once he is hired I am sure he will help us choose supplies. He also said he would have questions for us if we hired him. We will need to spend the afternoon shopping for supplies and making plans. We can start in the morning unless Musharib thinks otherwise is better."
Vrak then addresses Tyrgram directly.
"Let Zee know to meet us at Kaya's in the morning and we should be ready to go. We will send word if that changes, or she can join us now. Whatever works."
Vrak then settles the tab at the bar and heads out. Something about the city is more vibrant, alive than it was when they came to the Thundering Lizard. Decisions had been made, they had a direction to go. Hopeful that this quest could finish quickly Vrak really didn't think that was the case. If the article was that close to port it would have been found by now. No, it would be deep in uncharted depths of the jungle. But this ruin Zee spoke of was a place to start and something that was new, unexplored. It may hold clues, or death. No matter. It would be done in service to the Talons and to Bahamut and that is what was important.
After reaching Kaya's he returned to where Musharib had been sitting earlier.
"We are back. We would like to retain your services as a guide. In exchange for these services we will aid you in your quest to retrieve the gauntlet when the time comes."
Vrak looks at the dwarf expectantly.
"Are your services still for hire, or has another hired you since we left?"
Vrak looks at the others. Hope is in his eyes as it looks like they have come to a decision. Its time to get started.
"OK, let's head back to Kaya's. I will let the dwarf know that we wish to aid him in his quest. Once he is hired I am sure he will help us choose supplies. He also said he would have questions for us if we hired him. We will need to spend the afternoon shopping for supplies and making plans. We can start in the morning unless Musharib thinks otherwise is better."
Vrak then addresses Tyrgram directly.
"Let Zee know to meet us at Kaya's in the morning and we should be ready to go. We will send word if that changes, or she can join us now. Whatever works."
Zee agrees to meet you at Kaya's and said she will be there by sunrise (5 am)
Vrak then settles the tab at the bar and heads out. Something about the city is more vibrant, alive than it was when they came to the Thundering Lizard. Decisions had been made, they had a direction to go. Hopeful that this quest could finish quickly Vrak really didn't think that was the case. If the article was that close to port it would have been found by now. No, it would be deep in uncharted depths of the jungle. But this ruin Zee spoke of was a place to start and something that was new, unexplored. It may hold clues, or death. No matter. It would be done in service to the Talons and to Bahamut and that is what was important.
The bar tab was a measly 2 gold
After reaching Kaya's he returned to where Musharib had been sitting earlier.
"We are back. We would like to retain your services as a guide. In exchange for these services we will aid you in your quest to retrieve the gauntlet when the time comes."
Vrak looks at the dwarf expectantly.
"Are your services still for hire, or has another hired you since we left?"
Musharib smiles and jumps out of his chair and grabs your hand. "Twill be a pleasure guiding you in the jungles and many thanks for helping me reclaim my home or at least the gauntlet. Your thoughtfulness will not go unrewarded. There are a couple of things you need if you're heading out into the jungle. One of them is a rain-catcher. A rain catcher is a simple contraption consisting of a 5-foot-square leather tarp and a wooden frame with legs. When the tarp is stretched across the wooden frame, it forms a basin that can catch 2 gallons of drinking water per inch of rainfall and hold up to 8 gallons. The tarp and wooden frame fold up for easy transport. A rain catcher costs 1 gp and weighs 5 pounds. The Merchant prince Ekene-Afa controls the sale of rain catchers in Port Nyanzaru and can be found in the Red Bazaar. I suggest the party have at least two of these. They are heavy but can save your life considering the amount of rain that falls in the jungle."
Musharib sits back down and takes a sip of his drink looking at Vrak with a big grin on his face. Obviously, he is very happy about you helping him reclaim his home.
"The second thing you will need is insect Repellent. Insect repellent can be purchased in Port Nyanzaru in two forms: blocks of incense or a greasy salve. The merchant prince Kwayothé controls the sale of both. Neither kind of repellent protects against giant insects or the vile swarms of insects but it will protect you from many diseases that can be caught in the jungle. A block of incense sells for 1 sp. When lit, it burns for 8 hours and repels normal insects within a 20-foot-radius centered on it. A gourd or vial of salve, which sells for 1 gp, contains 20 applications of odorless grease. One application protects its wearer against normal insects for 24 hours. The salve is waterproof so it doesn’t wash off in rain. I suggest the salve. Unless you want to carry around a stupid candle all day. And if it rains you're screwed. I would suggest at least each person buy three. That would be enough for 2 months out in the jungle."
Musharib takes another sip of his drink and grabs some kind of meat on a stick and takes a bite. "Dino meat, very flavorful. As for Zee, I've heard of her. Very honest and respected. She's been out exploring the Jungle for a very long time. She might know a thing or two about surviving. Now speaking of surviving, Food. Food is not as important as water in the jungle. Food can be found easily enough if you're skilled enough in foraging. Even if you have no luck in foraging if you bring down one dinosaur you could get enough meat off of it to feed the whole group for at least 2-3 days."
Musharib offers you one of the sticks of Dino meat. "if you wish to buy a canoe it will cost you 50 gold and can hold 6 people. It will double our movement on rivers and are easy enough to carry over land. It would only take two people to carry it if we need to go into the jungle. You could get what they call a barge if you wish. That holds 10 people and it is a bit harder to carry over land. but it has enough room on it for a chest or two to store your gear. It's basically a large floating square with oars and a sail. That would cost you 150 gold."
Musharib takes another bite of the dino meat and washes it down with Tej. "The last thing I want to mention is navigation. Navigation in the jungle is very hard and I will do my best but even Eku gets lost out there and with her 200 years of trecking through the jungle that has to tell you how hard it really is. If someone wishes to help me navigate then it would be advantageous to us all but I can do it on my own. Otherwise, I really have nothing else to say at the moment and I will be ready when you wish to leave in the morning. Unless you have any questions for me?"
Musharib pulls out a contract for you to sign stating Musharib will waive his fee if you will help reclaim his homeland or the gauntlet. If you fail to follow through on your promise you are subject to the punishment prescribed by the Merchant Princes of Port and will be hunted down and thrown into Executioners Run for your crimes.
"I need your group to sign this and bring it to me in the morning before we head out. If everyone doesn't sign then I cannot take you into the jungle. All guides get a written contract signed and it is passed along to Jobul the Guide master so he knows what his guides are doing and what money is coming in etc..."
"One other thing. Who is in charge of your party? I will only answer one of you. I am not going to be waiting for everyone to make a group decision when time could be of the essence if it is something important I will follow the leaders lead, Let me know in the morning before we head out.
The Contract
It says you agree to help Musharib reclaim his home or help him reclaim the gauntlet. In exchange, he will waive his fee and pay Jobul himself out of his pocket. If you do not help Musharib with the said quest by the laws of the Merchant princes a bounty will be put on your head where you will be hunted down and found and thrown in executioners run for your punishment. The length of this contract is until the homeland is reclaimed or the gauntlet is reclaimed. Once that is done Musharib agrees to take you right back to port. Once in Port, the contract is terminated.
"Hmm Vrak, how to feel about those responsibilities? You have a vote of my confidence." Zubeki gives a thumbs up and smiles, hoping that responsibilities don't fall upon his shoulders.
"So, we need to organize and get supplies. Other than what Mushrairb has mentioned, rations and waterskins if anyone doesn't have any. How do we feel about carrying a canoe? I for one will not be lugging around something so heavy, but if we have volunteers who want to carry it, I have no problem paying for it as a thank you. Is anyone proficient with a compass and mapping tools? That would surely help up out keep track of where we are going and help fill out the map. And how do we want to shop? Do we want to split up into equal groups, or shall we travel as a group and split our gold evenly?"
Zubeki looks down and places his hand on his chin, thinking pensively. "And at last, if anyone has any letters they want to send back home or those who want some time tonight for solidarity to pray, study, sharpen a blade, or tune a... flute, then we should finish collecting our inventory quickly so we'll have that free time. Musharib, do you know if Port has a place where mages and wizards collect? I might need to pick up a few rare supplies."
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'Not much.' Tyrgram says. 'I hope that our would-be guide will fill us in on that.' He gives a nod towards Jirani. 'Keep an eye on that one. He's...' He shrugs lightly and continues in an uncertain voice, 'special. The elf lady is the strong but silent type as far as I can tell. '
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
Naivara slowly looks towards where Vrak was looking, tilting her head at the Firbolg and the man Tyrgram had approached, before following Vrak over. She leans slightly against the bar, having relaxed the slightest bit around Vrak and Jirani, a new tension set at being close to others she could not remember the name of. However, remembering the descriptions she was given she knew these two were also members of this alleged band of adventurers. With a slight sigh, she realizes this is all six of them and looks at them all. She waits for someone to speak to her first, still distancing herself, if not in body then in mind.
"Be not so guarded o' sister of wolves and exuberant ones. While the land may be unfamiliar to you, friends have been found, as well as nice song to enjoy the long walk." He pauses for a moment to let the words sink in, and then with a toothy smile add, "But if words are not enough, set the dance that these ones are to step to, so that you may rekindle your spirit, if for but a breathe of the moon."
With all that said, he'll wait, gauging Naivara's reaction before looking to the tiefling next. "Hm... No, now is not the time for that. Dragon man... uhm... Vrak, you were called, yes? Sorry, not used to 'names'. *clears throat* To be frank, though you and are new companion here have been thorough, this one still finds himself somewhat ill at ease with this Salinda. At the risk of encounter the flaming fist, this one would rather not risk an incident on one of her 'secret' paths should she find our unique lot... wanting." He admits while absently pouring some of the water on his head. "Then again, this one here might have found a decent, uhm… 'trial'. One that will get most of us more accustomed to this environment without traveling too far... Hopefully." He says, pulling Tygram into a surprise side-hug.
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
Naivara was completely caught off guard with Jolly's words and looks at him, wide eyed in both wonder and shock. It takes her a moment to react but the faintest of smiles grace her features and she relaxes just slightly. In elvish she replies,
"I am not quite use to traveling with so many others as I am usually on my own. I barely know all of you but I do trust that given some time together I will adjust." She gives Jolly a rather rare smile, a toothy grin of her own.
Naivara then goes silent and listens to the others talk about the guides, not truly caring who they picked at all. Her mind at ease just for a moment thanks to the Firbolg's warm friendliness, not many had been kind to her in the past. She questions the last time she had been at ease like this, but then shrugs off the thought. Turning her full attention towards the others conversation.
"Wait... is that eight of us now? Maybe this won't be as hard as I thought" Zubeki sloshes the last of the tej down and slides off his stool. "I'll go introduce myself then"
Zubeki flattens down the creases in his coat and walks towards the high elf. He notices the solitary nature and holds back on a grand introduction. "So it seems we are companions on this adventure. My name is Zubeki and I'll be the group's master of the arcane, but more importantly, I am a master tailor. If you ever need help mending or cleaning your outfits, I am your wizard. May I ask will you be bringing might or magic to our party?" Zubeki's smile isn't as wide as when he introduces himself to royalty, but it is sincere.
'What is it with Chult and hugs?!'
Tyrgram tries to squirm his way out of Jolly's embrace but with the height and weight advantage the Firbolg has over him, it is a near fruitless endeavour. With his shoulders and elbows squeezed together, he decides to just bear it out and inform the others on what Jolly is implying.
'I kinda sorta signed us up to help Zee,' He waggles his chin at the Chultan woman a table over as he can't move his arms, 'To help her clear out the ruins of a temple. Now before you get all huffy at me: it pays a hundred gold coins, we get half of whatever we find and it's only a three day journey to get there.' Tyrgram takes a deep breath to keep his ribcage from being compressed. 'Look, it's good coin and I figured it to do well to build up some goodwill around town. And like the big guy says,' Tyrgram shakes his head at Jolly, 'It's a good way to get our feet wet before we delve into the jungle for who knows how long.'
With a little bit of effort, Tyrgram manages to turn his head and look Jolly in the face. 'Please let me go?' He asks with what he hopes aren't too much of puppy dog eyes.
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
Naivara looks at Zubeki, no longer all that tense she lightly straightens her posture and puts her hands together. "I am Naivara, and I'll be bringing a little bit of magic of my own. Though my greataxe and dagger will likely be used more than a single spell I know." She speaks in a rather soft tone without the distancing edge to it, though she does not say more about herself. She is not quite comfortable with giving others information about herself (aside from her name) yet.
"A pleasure to meet you"*
Zubeki raises his staff in the air, making gestures to surround him. "Let us gather together and converse about our next steps, the sunlight burns and we shouldn't doddle, no matter the next task. Let us share our knowledge together about how we should prepare."
*Translated from Elvish
"Six." Jolly clarifies, sounding somewhat mystified after hearing Zubeki's elvish. Fortunately, he is not at so loss for words as to keep from clarifying things. "This one knows not where the other two have snuck off to, but suspects if they are to aid us, it'll indirect... And possibly, not for a good deal of time." He offers as a condolence as he leaned back in his seat. Blessed be the tavern owner's foresight in accommodating the large clientele that no doubt frequent the place.
*Translated from Elvish
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
Vrak listened to the pros and cons of each guide they had met.
"I say we hire the dwarf, Musharib. I feel more comfortable with him. We can retain his services yet today, gather the supplies he recommends and begin in the morning. Although I am not here to be a treasure hunter, the item we seek could be anywhere. We could begin with this job Tyrgram has found. We must seek clues and search ruins and mines. We would only be 3 days out. We will learn what the jungle is like first hand, finish the work and return to town to resupply and leave again with more knowledge than we have now."
Vrak looks to the others to see what they have to say. A decision needed to be made.
"Aye, I vote for Musharib too. He grew up in this jungle and his clan still thrives in it. He has also given us a lot of information for free, and I want to know what else he knows."
When the conversation was over Jirani got up and glanced in the direction the dragonborn was walking, spotting the two men at the bar next to Tyrgram. "So these are the magnificent two." The bronze tiefling greeted in cheer, offering a theatrical bow with outstretched hands before straightening up. His golden eyes moved to look at the firbolg in all his glory. "You must be Jolly. You look exactly like the force of nature I've envisioned you as. Kind, but fair." He then turned towards the man with the very sophisticated and handsome dress. "Zubeki, am I right? I liked the little I heard about you from Silvane, but I must say you're even more stunning than her words gave credit. I'm Jirani, and it's a pleasure to meet you all." Given that he and Naivara had joined their ranks a bit haphazardly, it wasn't surprising that their knowledge about the current situation wasn't quite as vast. "Would you care to enlighten me about Musharib? I've only met with Salinda, so I'm not going to pretend like I've got a very good grasp of the guides so far."
As your group is talking amongst yourselves you hear a person at the bar talking to his friend "Some city folk were expecting the arrival of a Halruaan airship called the Star Goddess. It never arrived. I bet it crashed in the jungle somewhere."
"Yup, I also heard that the airship was carrying some precious gems and art objects that them people found in Arghu."
"Arghu? Where is that?"
"How would I know. I guess it's one of them lost cities people are always discovering out in the jungle. You'd never catch me going out there."
DM Tomb of Annihilation X2
DM Curse of Strahd
Redleaf Moutain Dwarf Circle of land(Moutain) Druid
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
Tyrgram decided to chime in. 'I'm fine with Musharib. He is motivated to reclaim his home from these Firenewts which is an honourable endeavour. Going by his looks and scars, he has also been in his fair share of scrapes so I think he'll know what to do should we run into anything out there. Besides,' Tyrgram lowers his voice and leans a little bit in. 'Salida's card was just her bad-mouthing the other guides and we don't need that kind of negativity in the group.'
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
"Ok. It looks like we are in agreement? We hire the dwarf? Tyrgram can let Zee know we'll help her out?"
The two Chultans look up at Jolly and their mouths open a little and they stare just a bit too long. "Um... What are you?" the first man asks.
"I haven't heard anything about the Star Goddess except for rumor and hearsay."
DM Tomb of Annihilation X2
DM Curse of Strahd
Redleaf Moutain Dwarf Circle of land(Moutain) Druid
Vrak looks at the others. Hope is in his eyes as it looks like they have come to a decision. Its time to get started.
"OK, let's head back to Kaya's. I will let the dwarf know that we wish to aid him in his quest. Once he is hired I am sure he will help us choose supplies. He also said he would have questions for us if we hired him. We will need to spend the afternoon shopping for supplies and making plans. We can start in the morning unless Musharib thinks otherwise is better."
Vrak then addresses Tyrgram directly.
"Let Zee know to meet us at Kaya's in the morning and we should be ready to go. We will send word if that changes, or she can join us now. Whatever works."
Vrak then settles the tab at the bar and heads out. Something about the city is more vibrant, alive than it was when they came to the Thundering Lizard. Decisions had been made, they had a direction to go. Hopeful that this quest could finish quickly Vrak really didn't think that was the case. If the article was that close to port it would have been found by now. No, it would be deep in uncharted depths of the jungle. But this ruin Zee spoke of was a place to start and something that was new, unexplored. It may hold clues, or death. No matter. It would be done in service to the Talons and to Bahamut and that is what was important.
After reaching Kaya's he returned to where Musharib had been sitting earlier.
"We are back. We would like to retain your services as a guide. In exchange for these services we will aid you in your quest to retrieve the gauntlet when the time comes."
Vrak looks at the dwarf expectantly.
"Are your services still for hire, or has another hired you since we left?"
Zee agrees to meet you at Kaya's and said she will be there by sunrise (5 am)
The bar tab was a measly 2 gold
Musharib smiles and jumps out of his chair and grabs your hand. "Twill be a pleasure guiding you in the jungles and many thanks for helping me reclaim my home or at least the gauntlet. Your thoughtfulness will not go unrewarded. There are a couple of things you need if you're heading out into the jungle. One of them is a rain-catcher. A rain catcher is a simple contraption consisting of a 5-foot-square leather tarp and a wooden frame with legs. When the tarp is stretched across the wooden frame, it forms a basin that can catch 2 gallons of drinking water per inch of rainfall and hold up to 8 gallons. The tarp and wooden frame fold up for easy transport. A rain catcher costs 1 gp and weighs 5 pounds. The Merchant prince Ekene-Afa controls the sale of rain catchers in Port Nyanzaru and can be found in the Red Bazaar. I suggest the party have at least two of these. They are heavy but can save your life considering the amount of rain that falls in the jungle."
Musharib sits back down and takes a sip of his drink looking at Vrak with a big grin on his face. Obviously, he is very happy about you helping him reclaim his home.
"The second thing you will need is insect Repellent. Insect repellent can be purchased in Port Nyanzaru in two forms: blocks of incense or a greasy salve. The merchant prince Kwayothé controls the sale of both. Neither kind of repellent protects against giant insects or the vile swarms of insects but it will protect you from many diseases that can be caught in the jungle. A block of incense sells for 1 sp. When lit, it burns for 8 hours and repels normal insects within a 20-foot-radius centered on it. A gourd or vial of salve, which sells for 1 gp, contains 20 applications of odorless grease. One application protects its wearer against normal insects for 24 hours. The salve is waterproof so it doesn’t wash off in rain. I suggest the salve. Unless you want to carry around a stupid candle all day. And if it rains you're screwed. I would suggest at least each person buy three. That would be enough for 2 months out in the jungle."
Musharib takes another sip of his drink and grabs some kind of meat on a stick and takes a bite. "Dino meat, very flavorful. As for Zee, I've heard of her. Very honest and respected. She's been out exploring the Jungle for a very long time. She might know a thing or two about surviving. Now speaking of surviving, Food. Food is not as important as water in the jungle. Food can be found easily enough if you're skilled enough in foraging. Even if you have no luck in foraging if you bring down one dinosaur you could get enough meat off of it to feed the whole group for at least 2-3 days."
Musharib offers you one of the sticks of Dino meat. "if you wish to buy a canoe it will cost you 50 gold and can hold 6 people. It will double our movement on rivers and are easy enough to carry over land. It would only take two people to carry it if we need to go into the jungle. You could get what they call a barge if you wish. That holds 10 people and it is a bit harder to carry over land. but it has enough room on it for a chest or two to store your gear. It's basically a large floating square with oars and a sail. That would cost you 150 gold."
Musharib takes another bite of the dino meat and washes it down with Tej. "The last thing I want to mention is navigation. Navigation in the jungle is very hard and I will do my best but even Eku gets lost out there and with her 200 years of trecking through the jungle that has to tell you how hard it really is. If someone wishes to help me navigate then it would be advantageous to us all but I can do it on my own. Otherwise, I really have nothing else to say at the moment and I will be ready when you wish to leave in the morning. Unless you have any questions for me?"
Musharib pulls out a contract for you to sign stating Musharib will waive his fee if you will help reclaim his homeland or the gauntlet. If you fail to follow through on your promise you are subject to the punishment prescribed by the Merchant Princes of Port and will be hunted down and thrown into Executioners Run for your crimes.
"I need your group to sign this and bring it to me in the morning before we head out. If everyone doesn't sign then I cannot take you into the jungle. All guides get a written contract signed and it is passed along to Jobul the Guide master so he knows what his guides are doing and what money is coming in etc..."
"One other thing. Who is in charge of your party? I will only answer one of you. I am not going to be waiting for everyone to make a group decision when time could be of the essence if it is something important I will follow the leaders lead, Let me know in the morning before we head out.
The Contract
It says you agree to help Musharib reclaim his home or help him reclaim the gauntlet. In exchange, he will waive his fee and pay Jobul himself out of his pocket. If you do not help Musharib with the said quest by the laws of the Merchant princes a bounty will be put on your head where you will be hunted down and found and thrown in executioners run for your punishment. The length of this contract is until the homeland is reclaimed or the gauntlet is reclaimed. Once that is done Musharib agrees to take you right back to port. Once in Port, the contract is terminated.
DM Tomb of Annihilation X2
DM Curse of Strahd
Redleaf Moutain Dwarf Circle of land(Moutain) Druid
"Hmm Vrak, how to feel about those responsibilities? You have a vote of my confidence." Zubeki gives a thumbs up and smiles, hoping that responsibilities don't fall upon his shoulders.
"So, we need to organize and get supplies. Other than what Mushrairb has mentioned, rations and waterskins if anyone doesn't have any. How do we feel about carrying a canoe? I for one will not be lugging around something so heavy, but if we have volunteers who want to carry it, I have no problem paying for it as a thank you. Is anyone proficient with a compass and mapping tools? That would surely help up out keep track of where we are going and help fill out the map. And how do we want to shop? Do we want to split up into equal groups, or shall we travel as a group and split our gold evenly?"
Zubeki looks down and places his hand on his chin, thinking pensively. "And at last, if anyone has any letters they want to send back home or those who want some time tonight for solidarity to pray, study, sharpen a blade, or tune a... flute, then we should finish collecting our inventory quickly so we'll have that free time. Musharib, do you know if Port has a place where mages and wizards collect? I might need to pick up a few rare supplies."