On her way back to the table Mialee will stop to ask Durnan, "Do you have somewhere out back or nearby where I can perform the cremation ritual of Eilistraee on the remains?" she will gesture toward the body of the troll.
When Mercy asks what to do if their patron doesn't show, "Perhaps something came up, I've heard through the grapevine that he can be quite busy. I'm willing to wait another hour at least as I find the present company quite pleasant."
Bryony sighs. "Yes, thank the gods indeed, and thank you," She replies to Lucky. "I will certainly accept the invitation for a drink. Some Shadowdark ale might soothe the frustration!"
Yagra catches Mercy's hand signal and subtly returns it. "Pleasure's all mine. Anyway, thanks again for the assist. You're adventurers for hire, right? I'll put in a word with my boss. Black Network's always looking to get things done. Speaking of, I'd better get back to work..." You follow her eyes to a handsome and well-dressed sun elf man with flowing blond hair sitting at a corner table in the taproom, watching the exchange between all of you with a curious smile. She gives you all a nod and heads back that way.
Durnan gives Mialee a slightly quizzical look upon hearing her question. "On the troll? Really?" He does not sound annoyed, more surprised. "You're kinder than I'd ever be, Sister. Not sure if it'll fit through the doors, though. Was just gonna toss it down the Well. You wanna do a cremation, might be best you do it there. Might even let you take the trip for free if it means getting this beast out of my bar."
The front door opens and in struts a foppish looking bearded man with a blue and red patterned doublet with a ruffled collar, as well as a floppy blue beret - it's Volo! He looks around the taproom until he catches sight of all of you, then approaches your table. "Ah, my good friends! I do apologize for the wait - it turns out the clock in my study is half an hour slow! Who would have thought?" He guffaws. "But my, it seems like quite the battle has been fought here! A troll carcass in the Yawning Portal taproom? The scandal! And all of you, wounded and weathered, this must be your handiwork, yes? It seems that, as ever, I have a keen eye for talent! Volothamp Geddarm, at your service, and I do sincerely hope you are at his!"
Volo flags down Durnan and says, "Durnan, dear boy, please fetch these brave souls that, ahem, special Athkatlan clarry you keep in the back." The innkeep shoots daggers down at Volo, a silent message that Volo seems to get loud and clear. "Oh, come now, these heroes just saved your tavern from becoming a troll's buffet! They deserve a special treat, do they not?"
"It's going on your tab."
Volo lets out a nervous chuckle. "Ha... of course! Splendid!"
A server eventually returns to your table with a wine bottle and several glasses, pouring each of you a cup of the scarlet liquid. Volo pipes up. "My friends, you will not want to miss this particular vintage. The bouquet is a symphony of delight, the texture smooth and velvety as Calishite silk, and that subtle vanilla and honey flavor? To die for. Cheers, to your good health, good fortune, and the beginning of your legend!"
Arcana Check DC 12:
This is no ordinary wine. With the way it shimmers in the light of the Yawning Portal, you can tell that it has been enchanted with restorative magic. Drinking this wine will give you the mechanical benefit of a long rest.
Volo takes a sip, then lets out a content sigh. "Glory! Now, to business, for the last thing we need is for the night to slip away from us like a Sharran into shadow, eh? I trust you all have noticed the violence that has gripped our fair city these past tendays. Why, the last time I witnessed this much blood in the streets was during my last visit to Baldur's Gate! But, sadly, it seems that in the odious malevolence that has plagued our beloved Waterdeep, I have misplaced a dear friend. Last night, my friend Floon Blagmaar met me for drinks at the Skewered Dragon, a seedy little dive down in the Dock Ward. I have seen neither hide nor hair of the poor boy since! He is not at home, nor at any of his usual haunts. I fear he may have taken a bad way home that night... He may have been kidnapped, or worse..." His lip trembles, a tear forms in his eye, which he wipes away with an embroidered handkerchief. "And so, I now prevail upon you capable characters in my time of need. I do not expect you to investigate out of the kindness of your undoubtedly kind, noble, and generous hearts - I can pay you ten gold dragons apiece now, then give you each ten times that once poor Floon, or his fate, has been discovered. Are we in agreement, my friends?"
Dierdre holds up a hand, palm out and looks around the group. "Before anybody rushes into agreeing anything" she looks at some of the younger members "I would liketo know more."
She looks at Volo. "Who would he associate with? Where are his 'usual haunts' and why would he be kidnapped? Is there more to this than a simple disappearance? We may be willing to help, but charging off half-cocked will do nobody any favours."She gives him a look which says I know you, and I know the eccentricity is part of the act (Insight 21)
Lucky shakes his head, asking himself, Why would this fancy rich guy ever step foot in the Dock Ward?
Aloud, he says, “Dock ward? I know it well, I do some of my best, ah, ‘work’ in that area. Can we also get a description of Floon? Age, ancestry, that sort of thing?”
Arcana check 20
Lucky seriously considers trying to stash some of this wine away for a rainy day, but decides that would probably be too rude. Instead he enjoys the drink and nods along attentively as the more eloquently-tongued folk in the party begin to grill the foppish man.
Elagor sups the wine and is grateful for its restorative benefits as the aches of his wounds subside. He keeps his peace for the moment, noting Dierdre's shrewd and relevant questions.
This is exactly the type of work that appeals to Elagor, yet an incomplete brief and an unexpectedly generous fee is a dangerous combination. A fact that he has learned the hard way.
"Please do not be offended, but success in this type of matter generally depends on complete candour between client and associates. Be assured of our discretion and speak as freely as you may. Your friend will benefit from it."
"Yes, of course, I'll gladly answer your questions!" Volo begins, clearing his throat. "Floon is a human, a handsome devil in his thirties with wavy red-blond hair. Last night he was wearing rather fetching, princely garb. He used to work as a freelance escort here in town, but he's currently unemployed. I believe the fellow came into a small fortune, for he's not working anymore. He's a mainstay at several bars and fest-halls in the city. He's a real, how do you say, bon vivant, likes to enjoy himself. Don't we all, eh? Anyway, I've checked all those fest-halls, bars, even his apartment, and he isn't there. I would go back to the Skewered Dragon, but... well, it is a rough part of town, and I doubt I alone would fare as well there as a hardy crew of heroes like yourselves could.
"As to why he could have been kidnapped, I frankly haven't the foggiest idea. Perhaps it has something to do with that money? He never did tell me where it came from. But it very well could be he's just gotten himself lost and will turn up again, but with all the chaos in the city, I would much rather be safe than sorry. I understand your hesitation, Miss Dierdre, but... please take into consideration that if I had the answers to all your questions, I would not need to hire a band of adventurers to find him! I would have found him myself, of course. I mean no offense, I am simply concerned for the well-being of my friend. I may not know exactly why or how he could get caught up in some trouble, but I am willing to pay you should you discover what happened to him. I have told you everything I recall from that night, everything I know about Floon, and a place to begin your search, pick up where I left off. Please, I beseech you, help my friend find his way home, one way or another!"
Dierdre's Insight check:
Volo seems genuine - he's told you everything he knows. Though an eccentric he may be, under all the bravado Volo seems legitimately concerned for this Floon character. The only part that seems suspicious is the offer of payment. When he offered 100 gold apiece upon returning Floon, there was a slight hesitation, a bit of a desperate look in his eye. You can't help but wonder if he actually has that much money to spare.
Lucky will cock his head in puzzlement and ask, “What do you mean, an escort? Like a bodyguard? Who does he escort, and from where to where? If he’s so tough that he can escort people around town, then why are we so worried about him?”
Dierdre coughs, or chokes, before quickly regaining her 'matron-in-charge' demeanour. "I don't think he meant that kind of escort."
Turning to Volo she lets some of the harshness slip away "Do not take my words to heart too much sir, my aim was merely to to settle things on solid ground before we begin getting carried away. Now that is done, I for one am ready to lend a hand."
"Eilistraee reserves burial for friends and family. Monsters such as this are to be cremated." Mialee looks at the bulk of the troll corpse, and then from the door to the well.
"I have not yet had the opportunity to perform such a ritual Durnan, but from what I understand it is not as complex as it sounds. If you and yours can hoist it up onto the lip of the well I will begin dancing around the well, you can set it aflame and sometime after my second pass dump it over. As you can see it wouldn't require much on your part as you were planning on dumping it back down where it came from anyway."
She looks to Durnan and offers a pleasant smile, "And by doing so you will bring the favor of Eilistraee upon your fine establishment as I will be sure to mention you in my prayers."
When Volo joins them at the table with his job proposal and Deirdre wisely asks her follow up questions, Mialee will partake of the fine Athkatlan clarry and also ask, "Why would you think he's been kidnapped? Was a ransom note discovered?"
Arcana: 2
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"A rightful place awaits you in the Realms Above, in the Land of the Great Light. Come in peace, and live beneath the sun again, where trees and flowers grow."
— The message of Eilistraee to all decent drow.
"Run thy sword across my chains, Silver Lady, that I may join your dance.”
Mercy's tail twitches as Volo finally arrives. His mannerisms and attire are unlike anything she is accustomed to, and she feels the urge to laugh but quickly stifles it. Is this guy for real, she thinks to herself with amusement. As he tells the tale of his lost friend, her amusement slowly transforms into concern. The Docks are indeed dangerous, especially so for someone as foppish as this Volo and by extension his friend. She knows the Skewered Dragon quite well; she would almost be considered a regular there if she had the coin.
As Mercy takes a drink of the fancy red wine, her eyes go wide. She's never tasted anything so good in her life, and she has to restrain herself from slurping it down and looking totally uncultured, which, of course, she is really. As she drinks the wine, she feels a nudge from her patron. He speaks to her sometimes, in her mind, though she has the lamp stowed in her pack; she carries it with her at all times. Azar, for that is what the genie calls himself, says inside her mind, "Drink deeply for this wine is enchanted and will restore your energy and vigor." Mercy doesn't need to be told twice. She sighs with contentment, so distracted by the wine that she has only half-listened to the conversation going around her.
Volo mentioning the payment for the task immediately draws her attention back though. Did he just say he'd pay them 100 gold pieces each upon rescuing his friend? Mercy doesn't need to hear any more.
"I too, for my part." Elagor confirms, a small smile flickers as he watches Mercy ride impulsively over Dierdre's careful negotiating position. There seems little point pretending that he is hesitating himself now. Besides, his own financial position makes refusal unthinkable. "Would you be kind enough to jot down any locations your friend is known to frequent? The location of his lodgings would be useful too. Additionally, and this is entirely hypothetical, sometimes with this type of investigation it is necessary to make certain... payments... to move things along and secure information quickly. If this was necessary, are there funds we can call upon, or would these come from our own finders' fee?" He meets Volo's eye. "I ask not by way of securing additional gold for ourselves. Any such payments would be accounted for. However, I am sure you are aware yourself that in this city a few well-placed coins can achieve more in five minutes than we could hope to in a week. Time might well be a factor here. Additionally, if his disappearance is financially motivated, such transactions often have the effect of causing the target to break cover - since the call of coin is hard for them to resist."
This will please Daenir, Elagor thinks. So many unknowns. The whereabouts of his friend, obviously, but it feels like there are deeper mysteries to be uncovered. The source of his sudden wealth for one. This will be an interesting experience.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
GM: Adventure in the Mountains GM: After The Breach PC: Elagor Tyreen, in Dragon Heist-Hell of a Summer
Lucky feels a little in over his head, probably equal parts embarrassment that he didn’t think of all the things the others are talking about, but also relief that they ARE thinking of those things. He was planning to simply go to that inn and ask around, snoop around. If that didn’t pan out, well, he had no idea what to do next…
Probably wise Diedre, or clever Mialee, or shrewd Elagor, or sophisticated Ilmrae, or well-connected Mercy, would know what to do next.
He can almost feel that 100 gold bounty already filling his purse. He can think of a lot of things he could do with 100 gold… maybe even… No, best not to get too hopeful too soon. It could still lead to disappointment. He pushes the glowing feeling down.
Mialee finishes up the cremation ritual of Eilistraee and contemplates the nature of the source of her faith: First with the bullies and then right after with the troll, opportunities presented themselves for practicing her faith in Eilistraee. Even followed by the cremation ritual for the disposal of monster corpses. Perhaps... I wonder if it could be possible to worship non-stop. To have constant faith in your goddess. To further her divine essence. Perhaps... trying to find this Floon person would provide 100 gold which could go a long way for food, weapons, and musical instruments. Others were willing to try so by joining in she would not be alone.
Looking around at her fellow compatriots at the table, "If we're going to do this we should try to pick up his trail no matter how cold it may be. We should start at his last known location. Try to find any clues or info as to where he may of gone... or possibly where he may of been taken."
Stopping to look down at her current state of dress, "I didn't expect to be fighting a troll in a tavern so didn't dress for it. I would need half an hour, maybe a quarter to grab my armor and supplies. If we're going to the docks I want to be as ready for anything as I can be."
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
"A rightful place awaits you in the Realms Above, in the Land of the Great Light. Come in peace, and live beneath the sun again, where trees and flowers grow."
— The message of Eilistraee to all decent drow.
"Run thy sword across my chains, Silver Lady, that I may join your dance.”
Lucky suggests that they hurry to the Skewered Dragon ASAP tonight before the trail goes cold. They may even have the same staff that worked last night, maybe somebody saw something.
"Before we all go rushing off into the unknown, I suggest we stop and think."
"Six people rushing in, armed to the teeth is going to be very noticeable, and possibly scare off the people we need to talk to. I suggest that a couple of us go in to ask around, whilst the rest of us stay outside and watch the doors in case somebody tries to slip away unnoticed."
"Elagor, I believe this is your field of expertise. I suggest that you go inside, with one other to ask questions."
Lucky nods, “Of course, a plan, that’s what we need! I have some ideas. First off, I could turn someone invisible, they could go in with the others and watch people without having to be sneaky, like get their facial reactions to questions and stuff. That way we’d have another person in there observing things. Could be useful. But I think it’s a good idea to watch the doors including the back door. I volunteer for the back door. At least I think there’s a back door… You know, actually I never really checked before.”
"Can I meet you somewhere is half an hour and we go from there. I would like to get my armor and backpack. My weapons."
Mialee pauses but a moment before continuing, "I am a priestess of Eilistraee but aspire to the rank of Sword Dancer. I can't very well do that without my weapon."
(ooc: Mialee is going to get her armor and weapons before going anywhere, so if that makes her a little late so be it.)
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
"A rightful place awaits you in the Realms Above, in the Land of the Great Light. Come in peace, and live beneath the sun again, where trees and flowers grow."
— The message of Eilistraee to all decent drow.
"Run thy sword across my chains, Silver Lady, that I may join your dance.”
Volo seems quite relieved to know you are all on board. "Thank you, most generous and magnanimous of beings! I have the utmost faith in your abilities!" He all but cries as he produces a series of pouches from his belt. "For all of you, a down payment, if you will! 10 golden dragons to all of you. You needn't go to his residence, I have already checked there thoroughly - I have a key, feed his cat from time to time. No clue of where he might have gotten off to. The only place I have not yet inquired about Floon's whereabouts is the very tavern we visited last night, the Skewered Dragon in the Dock Ward. I highly suggest starting there! Oh, and do watch your backs, fronts, sides, tops, and bottoms - the Dock Ward is much more dangerous these days than it usually is. I do not know why anyone would take the fellow, but... I can't help but fear for his safety. It is not like him to disappear like this."
You each gain 10 gold pieces from Volo!
"Ah, well, if it comes to the point you must spend money to find poor Floon... I don't carry much more than I have already given you on my person, you see," Volo explains to Elagor. "I don't want any street urchins or thugs to pickpocket me of all I'm worth. Rest assured, I will have the money to pay you once all this is done, plus cover any necessary expenditures, of course! Meet me back here when you find him."
Mialee has enough time to grab her equipment before the group sets off. The night is still young. The sky is a deep blue tapestry dotted with stars, and a waning gibbous moon hangs in the sky. Basking in the lunar glow, you feel a pleasant warmth - the Dark Dancer's embrace. She is pleased with your work, you just know it.
Dierdre looks around the group and sighs "Tabaxi, Drow, Tiefling and a white haired elf, not the most inconspicuous group are we?" she winks to take any offence out of the words.
"Elagor, it looks like you have a chance to redeem yourself and escort a lady into a tavern."
"I suppose if we're trying to be inconspicuous somebody had best take my shield."
"Oh, from what I've heard of the Skewered Dragon, a shield will hardly seem out of place!" Elagor smiles. "Indeed, it might seem oddly ill-equipped to be without one! Perhaps if we have an unseen - invisible - companion also, they can glean information we might otherwise miss? I'm not saying our earlier experience at the Portal was typical, but just on the very off-chance that things go slightly awry, that same companion could, in an emergency, summon us help." Elagor takes his recently-filled gold pouch and tucks it somewhere no pick-pocket will willingly delve (at least not without detection!). A second pouch, containing a few small denomination coins is secured on a strap that runs beneath his armpit (also a hard place to get to without detection). Dock Ward taverns have seen many an adventurer relieved of their coin and Elagor has no wish to join that number. He checks that his swords are loose in their scabbards and easily drawn. These and a deep breath complete his preparations.
He bows to Dierdre. "My Lady, when you are quite ready, might I escort you into this establishment? Ladies first, naturally."
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
GM: Adventure in the Mountains GM: After The Breach PC: Elagor Tyreen, in Dragon Heist-Hell of a Summer
On her way back to the table Mialee will stop to ask Durnan, "Do you have somewhere out back or nearby where I can perform the cremation ritual of Eilistraee on the remains?" she will gesture toward the body of the troll.
When Mercy asks what to do if their patron doesn't show, "Perhaps something came up, I've heard through the grapevine that he can be quite busy. I'm willing to wait another hour at least as I find the present company quite pleasant."
Bryony sighs. "Yes, thank the gods indeed, and thank you," She replies to Lucky. "I will certainly accept the invitation for a drink. Some Shadowdark ale might soothe the frustration!"
Yagra catches Mercy's hand signal and subtly returns it. "Pleasure's all mine. Anyway, thanks again for the assist. You're adventurers for hire, right? I'll put in a word with my boss. Black Network's always looking to get things done. Speaking of, I'd better get back to work..." You follow her eyes to a handsome and well-dressed sun elf man with flowing blond hair sitting at a corner table in the taproom, watching the exchange between all of you with a curious smile. She gives you all a nod and heads back that way.
Durnan gives Mialee a slightly quizzical look upon hearing her question. "On the troll? Really?" He does not sound annoyed, more surprised. "You're kinder than I'd ever be, Sister. Not sure if it'll fit through the doors, though. Was just gonna toss it down the Well. You wanna do a cremation, might be best you do it there. Might even let you take the trip for free if it means getting this beast out of my bar."
The front door opens and in struts a foppish looking bearded man with a blue and red patterned doublet with a ruffled collar, as well as a floppy blue beret - it's Volo! He looks around the taproom until he catches sight of all of you, then approaches your table. "Ah, my good friends! I do apologize for the wait - it turns out the clock in my study is half an hour slow! Who would have thought?" He guffaws. "But my, it seems like quite the battle has been fought here! A troll carcass in the Yawning Portal taproom? The scandal! And all of you, wounded and weathered, this must be your handiwork, yes? It seems that, as ever, I have a keen eye for talent! Volothamp Geddarm, at your service, and I do sincerely hope you are at his!"
Volo flags down Durnan and says, "Durnan, dear boy, please fetch these brave souls that, ahem, special Athkatlan clarry you keep in the back." The innkeep shoots daggers down at Volo, a silent message that Volo seems to get loud and clear. "Oh, come now, these heroes just saved your tavern from becoming a troll's buffet! They deserve a special treat, do they not?"
"It's going on your tab."
Volo lets out a nervous chuckle. "Ha... of course! Splendid!"
A server eventually returns to your table with a wine bottle and several glasses, pouring each of you a cup of the scarlet liquid. Volo pipes up. "My friends, you will not want to miss this particular vintage. The bouquet is a symphony of delight, the texture smooth and velvety as Calishite silk, and that subtle vanilla and honey flavor? To die for. Cheers, to your good health, good fortune, and the beginning of your legend!"
Arcana Check DC 12:
This is no ordinary wine. With the way it shimmers in the light of the Yawning Portal, you can tell that it has been enchanted with restorative magic. Drinking this wine will give you the mechanical benefit of a long rest.
Volo takes a sip, then lets out a content sigh. "Glory! Now, to business, for the last thing we need is for the night to slip away from us like a Sharran into shadow, eh? I trust you all have noticed the violence that has gripped our fair city these past tendays. Why, the last time I witnessed this much blood in the streets was during my last visit to Baldur's Gate! But, sadly, it seems that in the odious malevolence that has plagued our beloved Waterdeep, I have misplaced a dear friend. Last night, my friend Floon Blagmaar met me for drinks at the Skewered Dragon, a seedy little dive down in the Dock Ward. I have seen neither hide nor hair of the poor boy since! He is not at home, nor at any of his usual haunts. I fear he may have taken a bad way home that night... He may have been kidnapped, or worse..." His lip trembles, a tear forms in his eye, which he wipes away with an embroidered handkerchief. "And so, I now prevail upon you capable characters in my time of need. I do not expect you to investigate out of the kindness of your undoubtedly kind, noble, and generous hearts - I can pay you ten gold dragons apiece now, then give you each ten times that once poor Floon, or his fate, has been discovered. Are we in agreement, my friends?"
Dierdre holds up a hand, palm out and looks around the group. "Before anybody rushes into agreeing anything" she looks at some of the younger members "I would like to know more."
She looks at Volo. "Who would he associate with? Where are his 'usual haunts' and why would he be kidnapped? Is there more to this than a simple disappearance? We may be willing to help, but charging off half-cocked will do nobody any favours." She gives him a look which says I know you, and I know the eccentricity is part of the act (Insight 21)
Nyli Bemblade - Gnome Arcane Trickster
Portia Thornleaf - Halfling Rogue
Lucky shakes his head, asking himself, Why would this fancy rich guy ever step foot in the Dock Ward?
Aloud, he says, “Dock ward? I know it well, I do some of my best, ah, ‘work’ in that area. Can we also get a description of Floon? Age, ancestry, that sort of thing?”
Arcana check 20
Lucky seriously considers trying to stash some of this wine away for a rainy day, but decides that would probably be too rude. Instead he enjoys the drink and nods along attentively as the more eloquently-tongued folk in the party begin to grill the foppish man.
Elagor sups the wine and is grateful for its restorative benefits as the aches of his wounds subside. He keeps his peace for the moment, noting Dierdre's shrewd and relevant questions.
This is exactly the type of work that appeals to Elagor, yet an incomplete brief and an unexpectedly generous fee is a dangerous combination. A fact that he has learned the hard way.
"Please do not be offended, but success in this type of matter generally depends on complete candour between client and associates. Be assured of our discretion and speak as freely as you may. Your friend will benefit from it."
(Persuade 14)
GM: Adventure in the Mountains
GM: After The Breach
PC: Elagor Tyreen, in Dragon Heist-Hell of a Summer
Feel free to check out my Period Fantasy novella: Storm on the Cathe
"Yes, of course, I'll gladly answer your questions!" Volo begins, clearing his throat. "Floon is a human, a handsome devil in his thirties with wavy red-blond hair. Last night he was wearing rather fetching, princely garb. He used to work as a freelance escort here in town, but he's currently unemployed. I believe the fellow came into a small fortune, for he's not working anymore. He's a mainstay at several bars and fest-halls in the city. He's a real, how do you say, bon vivant, likes to enjoy himself. Don't we all, eh? Anyway, I've checked all those fest-halls, bars, even his apartment, and he isn't there. I would go back to the Skewered Dragon, but... well, it is a rough part of town, and I doubt I alone would fare as well there as a hardy crew of heroes like yourselves could.
"As to why he could have been kidnapped, I frankly haven't the foggiest idea. Perhaps it has something to do with that money? He never did tell me where it came from. But it very well could be he's just gotten himself lost and will turn up again, but with all the chaos in the city, I would much rather be safe than sorry. I understand your hesitation, Miss Dierdre, but... please take into consideration that if I had the answers to all your questions, I would not need to hire a band of adventurers to find him! I would have found him myself, of course. I mean no offense, I am simply concerned for the well-being of my friend. I may not know exactly why or how he could get caught up in some trouble, but I am willing to pay you should you discover what happened to him. I have told you everything I recall from that night, everything I know about Floon, and a place to begin your search, pick up where I left off. Please, I beseech you, help my friend find his way home, one way or another!"
Dierdre's Insight check:
Volo seems genuine - he's told you everything he knows. Though an eccentric he may be, under all the bravado Volo seems legitimately concerned for this Floon character. The only part that seems suspicious is the offer of payment. When he offered 100 gold apiece upon returning Floon, there was a slight hesitation, a bit of a desperate look in his eye. You can't help but wonder if he actually has that much money to spare.
Lucky will cock his head in puzzlement and ask, “What do you mean, an escort? Like a bodyguard? Who does he escort, and from where to where? If he’s so tough that he can escort people around town, then why are we so worried about him?”
Dierdre coughs, or chokes, before quickly regaining her 'matron-in-charge' demeanour. "I don't think he meant that kind of escort."
Turning to Volo she lets some of the harshness slip away "Do not take my words to heart too much sir, my aim was merely to to settle things on solid ground before we begin getting carried away. Now that is done, I for one am ready to lend a hand."
Nyli Bemblade - Gnome Arcane Trickster
Portia Thornleaf - Halfling Rogue
"Eilistraee reserves burial for friends and family. Monsters such as this are to be cremated." Mialee looks at the bulk of the troll corpse, and then from the door to the well.
"I have not yet had the opportunity to perform such a ritual Durnan, but from what I understand it is not as complex as it sounds. If you and yours can hoist it up onto the lip of the well I will begin dancing around the well, you can set it aflame and sometime after my second pass dump it over. As you can see it wouldn't require much on your part as you were planning on dumping it back down where it came from anyway."
She looks to Durnan and offers a pleasant smile, "And by doing so you will bring the favor of Eilistraee upon your fine establishment as I will be sure to mention you in my prayers."
When Volo joins them at the table with his job proposal and Deirdre wisely asks her follow up questions, Mialee will partake of the fine Athkatlan clarry and also ask, "Why would you think he's been kidnapped? Was a ransom note discovered?"
Arcana: 2
Mercy's tail twitches as Volo finally arrives. His mannerisms and attire are unlike anything she is accustomed to, and she feels the urge to laugh but quickly stifles it. Is this guy for real, she thinks to herself with amusement. As he tells the tale of his lost friend, her amusement slowly transforms into concern. The Docks are indeed dangerous, especially so for someone as foppish as this Volo and by extension his friend. She knows the Skewered Dragon quite well; she would almost be considered a regular there if she had the coin.
As Mercy takes a drink of the fancy red wine, her eyes go wide. She's never tasted anything so good in her life, and she has to restrain herself from slurping it down and looking totally uncultured, which, of course, she is really. As she drinks the wine, she feels a nudge from her patron. He speaks to her sometimes, in her mind, though she has the lamp stowed in her pack; she carries it with her at all times. Azar, for that is what the genie calls himself, says inside her mind, "Drink deeply for this wine is enchanted and will restore your energy and vigor." Mercy doesn't need to be told twice. She sighs with contentment, so distracted by the wine that she has only half-listened to the conversation going around her.
Volo mentioning the payment for the task immediately draws her attention back though. Did he just say he'd pay them 100 gold pieces each upon rescuing his friend? Mercy doesn't need to hear any more.
"I'll help," she says quickly.
Arcana - 18
Extended Signature
Characters: Bryony Alderleaf (Phandelver and Below) ♦ Vesta Trevelyan (Vecna: Eve of Ruin) ♦ Ada Kendrick (Curse of Strahd) ♦ Gareth Blackwood (Dragon of Icespire Peak) ♦ Karys Velthune (Out of the Abyss) ♦ Surina Xarith (Simple, Heroic Adventure)
DM: Baldur's Gate: Descent Into Avernus
"I too, for my part." Elagor confirms, a small smile flickers as he watches Mercy ride impulsively over Dierdre's careful negotiating position. There seems little point pretending that he is hesitating himself now. Besides, his own financial position makes refusal unthinkable. "Would you be kind enough to jot down any locations your friend is known to frequent? The location of his lodgings would be useful too. Additionally, and this is entirely hypothetical, sometimes with this type of investigation it is necessary to make certain... payments... to move things along and secure information quickly. If this was necessary, are there funds we can call upon, or would these come from our own finders' fee?" He meets Volo's eye. "I ask not by way of securing additional gold for ourselves. Any such payments would be accounted for. However, I am sure you are aware yourself that in this city a few well-placed coins can achieve more in five minutes than we could hope to in a week. Time might well be a factor here. Additionally, if his disappearance is financially motivated, such transactions often have the effect of causing the target to break cover - since the call of coin is hard for them to resist."
This will please Daenir, Elagor thinks. So many unknowns. The whereabouts of his friend, obviously, but it feels like there are deeper mysteries to be uncovered. The source of his sudden wealth for one. This will be an interesting experience.
GM: Adventure in the Mountains
GM: After The Breach
PC: Elagor Tyreen, in Dragon Heist-Hell of a Summer
Feel free to check out my Period Fantasy novella: Storm on the Cathe
Lucky feels a little in over his head, probably equal parts embarrassment that he didn’t think of all the things the others are talking about, but also relief that they ARE thinking of those things. He was planning to simply go to that inn and ask around, snoop around. If that didn’t pan out, well, he had no idea what to do next…
Probably wise Diedre, or clever Mialee, or shrewd Elagor, or sophisticated Ilmrae, or well-connected Mercy, would know what to do next.
He can almost feel that 100 gold bounty already filling his purse. He can think of a lot of things he could do with 100 gold… maybe even… No, best not to get too hopeful too soon. It could still lead to disappointment. He pushes the glowing feeling down.
Mialee finishes up the cremation ritual of Eilistraee and contemplates the nature of the source of her faith: First with the bullies and then right after with the troll, opportunities presented themselves for practicing her faith in Eilistraee. Even followed by the cremation ritual for the disposal of monster corpses. Perhaps... I wonder if it could be possible to worship non-stop. To have constant faith in your goddess. To further her divine essence. Perhaps... trying to find this Floon person would provide 100 gold which could go a long way for food, weapons, and musical instruments. Others were willing to try so by joining in she would not be alone.
Looking around at her fellow compatriots at the table, "If we're going to do this we should try to pick up his trail no matter how cold it may be. We should start at his last known location. Try to find any clues or info as to where he may of gone... or possibly where he may of been taken."
Stopping to look down at her current state of dress, "I didn't expect to be fighting a troll in a tavern so didn't dress for it. I would need half an hour, maybe a quarter to grab my armor and supplies. If we're going to the docks I want to be as ready for anything as I can be."
Lucky suggests that they hurry to the Skewered Dragon ASAP tonight before the trail goes cold. They may even have the same staff that worked last night, maybe somebody saw something.
"Before we all go rushing off into the unknown, I suggest we stop and think."
"Six people rushing in, armed to the teeth is going to be very noticeable, and possibly scare off the people we need to talk to. I suggest that a couple of us go in to ask around, whilst the rest of us stay outside and watch the doors in case somebody tries to slip away unnoticed."
"Elagor, I believe this is your field of expertise. I suggest that you go inside, with one other to ask questions."
Nyli Bemblade - Gnome Arcane Trickster
Portia Thornleaf - Halfling Rogue
Lucky nods, “Of course, a plan, that’s what we need! I have some ideas. First off, I could turn someone invisible, they could go in with the others and watch people without having to be sneaky, like get their facial reactions to questions and stuff. That way we’d have another person in there observing things. Could be useful. But I think it’s a good idea to watch the doors including the back door. I volunteer for the back door. At least I think there’s a back door… You know, actually I never really checked before.”
"Can I meet you somewhere is half an hour and we go from there. I would like to get my armor and backpack. My weapons."
Mialee pauses but a moment before continuing, "I am a priestess of Eilistraee but aspire to the rank of Sword Dancer. I can't very well do that without my weapon."
(ooc: Mialee is going to get her armor and weapons before going anywhere, so if that makes her a little late so be it.)
Volo seems quite relieved to know you are all on board. "Thank you, most generous and magnanimous of beings! I have the utmost faith in your abilities!" He all but cries as he produces a series of pouches from his belt. "For all of you, a down payment, if you will! 10 golden dragons to all of you. You needn't go to his residence, I have already checked there thoroughly - I have a key, feed his cat from time to time. No clue of where he might have gotten off to. The only place I have not yet inquired about Floon's whereabouts is the very tavern we visited last night, the Skewered Dragon in the Dock Ward. I highly suggest starting there! Oh, and do watch your backs, fronts, sides, tops, and bottoms - the Dock Ward is much more dangerous these days than it usually is. I do not know why anyone would take the fellow, but... I can't help but fear for his safety. It is not like him to disappear like this."
You each gain 10 gold pieces from Volo!
"Ah, well, if it comes to the point you must spend money to find poor Floon... I don't carry much more than I have already given you on my person, you see," Volo explains to Elagor. "I don't want any street urchins or thugs to pickpocket me of all I'm worth. Rest assured, I will have the money to pay you once all this is done, plus cover any necessary expenditures, of course! Meet me back here when you find him."
Mialee has enough time to grab her equipment before the group sets off. The night is still young. The sky is a deep blue tapestry dotted with stars, and a waning gibbous moon hangs in the sky. Basking in the lunar glow, you feel a pleasant warmth - the Dark Dancer's embrace. She is pleased with your work, you just know it.
"So, who's going inside?"
Dierdre looks around the group and sighs "Tabaxi, Drow, Tiefling and a white haired elf, not the most inconspicuous group are we?" she winks to take any offence out of the words.
"Elagor, it looks like you have a chance to redeem yourself and escort a lady into a tavern."
"I suppose if we're trying to be inconspicuous somebody had best take my shield."
Nyli Bemblade - Gnome Arcane Trickster
Portia Thornleaf - Halfling Rogue
"Oh, from what I've heard of the Skewered Dragon, a shield will hardly seem out of place!" Elagor smiles. "Indeed, it might seem oddly ill-equipped to be without one! Perhaps if we have an unseen - invisible - companion also, they can glean information we might otherwise miss? I'm not saying our earlier experience at the Portal was typical, but just on the very off-chance that things go slightly awry, that same companion could, in an emergency, summon us help." Elagor takes his recently-filled gold pouch and tucks it somewhere no pick-pocket will willingly delve (at least not without detection!). A second pouch, containing a few small denomination coins is secured on a strap that runs beneath his armpit (also a hard place to get to without detection). Dock Ward taverns have seen many an adventurer relieved of their coin and Elagor has no wish to join that number. He checks that his swords are loose in their scabbards and easily drawn. These and a deep breath complete his preparations.
He bows to Dierdre. "My Lady, when you are quite ready, might I escort you into this establishment? Ladies first, naturally."
GM: Adventure in the Mountains
GM: After The Breach
PC: Elagor Tyreen, in Dragon Heist-Hell of a Summer
Feel free to check out my Period Fantasy novella: Storm on the Cathe
Lucky tags along. "So does anyone want to be turned invisible? Mialee, perhaps?"
Metagaming table talk:
Mialee has the highest insight score among the remaining PC's