Residue of Sorrow

"The text mentions the egg shivers. Taken literally, that would mean there should be some movement felt within the egg", Bryn explains once Arren retrieves the stone, regardless of whoever examines it first.

He then answers Arren's question about handling it, "It mentions placing your hands on it and stilling your pulse. But that instruction was more around letting the creature inside learn about the world, rather than for the person holding the egg to learn about the creature". He watches the egg carefully as it is held by the others, but doesn't mention the exact wording used for the four elements at this time.

"As for your question about incubation, Lieutenant. I have read nothing in the tome that mentions that as yet, but I haven't finished reading the book yet. If you are asking about a regular lizard...", he will add, stating what he knows with regards to the question about lizards.

If he is offered the chance to hold the stone, he will do so, examining it closely.

Nature: 10+3=13 (For the questions about lizard egg in general, and also I guess dragon eggs)
Investigation: 2+5=7 (For looking at the stone)

((It turns out, some lizards, like skinks, do incubate, in their own way. The wonders of nature.))

Bryn doesn't feel confident in his answer, given that it isn't based on knowledge per se, but he doesn't recall ever seeing a snake incubate its eggs. For most lizards, like geckos or skinks (OOC: Nevermind, lucky I double-checked myself), he can't even imagine that. But then again, Bryn never studied reptiles thoroughly enough to be sure.

Arren finds that the stone isn't perfectly smooth... but neither is an egg. A regular chicken's egg, to be exact, which is most likely the closest thing Arren can think of. There are no cracks, however. The elements surely aren't present, since there is no fire around. Well, unless one counts the Commandant's lantern on her desk. 

The rock remains inert as Arren and then Bryn examine it. They can't help but feel at least a little silly about the entire thing, even if there's no definitive proof that this isn't actually a dragon's egg. As much as either can tell so far, this is a mostly round, very smooth rock.

Arren shrugs.

"Well, fortunately for everyone, it looks like a perfectly normal stone. Would even make for a decent paperweight." 

He lets out a quiet chuckle.

"Definitely no wings too vast nor hunger too deep to worry about." He lifts his index and middle fingers, mimicking quotation marks as he says the words.

With little else to do for the remainder of the night, Arren offers to take the first watch instead of the last, if only to shake up the routine a bit.

"Well we know looks can be deceiving", Bryn replies with a wry smile, "But I have to agree with you. Short of performing some more invasive tests, like heating the stone to see what happens it looks like we are fussing over nothing".

"I guess separating the stone and the book isn't the worst idea in the world, just in case".

With Arren turning in but his own investigative juices still flowing, he decides to finally see what the trousers he got from the excavation site can actually do. He wanders off a little way to find a nice large empty space, or perhaps somewhere with a large rock to attempt to jump onto. He will carefully test the bounds of the magic within the trousers, starting with a small standing jump and leading up to attempts to leap onto or over a boulder. He will be careful and measured, looking for suitable landing points to aim for rather than simply jumping blind. He will be very careful, aware of the fact that his vision isn’t perfect in the low light.

Once he is done, he will clean his gear and then turn in to trance himself.

When Bryn first jumps, he jumps high, higher than he usually could, but not more than he intended. As long as he is measured, Bryn can jump to great heights all of a sudden, though the landing doesn't feel soft in particular... perhaps just a bit. As long as he doesn't jump higher than 10 feet, he can land safely, but he doesn't learn the limit of this empowered jump. If he wishes to jump to greater heights, he can find places he could jump to and then climb down from (with a successful DC10 Athletics check) safely up to 20 feet high, though he'll still not feel like he's at his limit. At greater heights, though, there is nothing he can hold onto, unless he strays farther from camp.

In any case, a mere minute after Bryn makes his first empowered jump, he feels slightly heavier. Lighter than without the pants, and he still moves faster, but his jumps are no longer empowered. This feeling of relative heaviness (or less-lightness?) will pass in the next dawn.

((Everything that happened with the book and the rock happens a day after leaving the Mountain Inn. There are several more days for travel on the mountain path. Is there anything else Bryn or Arren wish to do during that time?))

(Nothing beyond what I wrote in #1095)

Bryn will take an interest in the merchants, especially if there are any stopped at the same inn as them where he will get the chance to perhaps peruse their wares.

He is looking for bowstring and clothes that go better with his dirty trousers. Not that he wants dirty trousers, just less fancy than the ones Otis wore. Anything that can be used as material spell components he would be interested in as well, including the unlikely chance of an arcane focus.

Beyond that, he will be friendly and always ask what to expect from the road ahead from talkative fellow travellers.

He will want to talk to the Commandant about the plan for Pyorre. For example, who is he now meant to be? Will he enter with the group, or separately? What is their story, effectively?

(OOC: He won't push his luck with the [Tooltip Not Found], it is just an initial test whilst he can't be seen by random passers by, hence doing it after dark)

None of the merchants sells anything that could function as a bowstring. Some, though not plenty, do sell ready-made clothes, though they're usually of a somewhat higher quality. Not exactly for the rich who can afford a tailor, nor for the poor who'll do with whatever they can find. They're more fitting for a figure like Otis, or some other person with a profession that does not include too much physical work. They might fit with the dirty trousers, except they're much cleaner. In simpler, shorter terms, none would stand out any less nor any more than Otis' attire.

(For the best fit, Bryn would be wise to look at people who wear trousers of a similar fashion. Carpenters, leather-workers, masons, smiths... even cooks. When clothes serve some functionality (commonly protection, if not more) beyond appeal and comfort.)

Commandant Nattensbarn doesn't have all the answers ready when Bryn asks her about reaching Pyorre, but at the very least, she's decisive that Bryn should enter the city separately. "If the people in Tus are any more useful than the rocks they're surrounded by, they'll have sent a pigeon or a messenger to Pyorre regarding everything that happened. I imagine that will have included Corporal Peite's death, and also your escape. I don't know how many of them noticed you left with us, but just in case, you should enter separately. They wouldn't search for someone arrested for using counterfeit coins, but they're sure to look for an impostor. You shouldn't have trouble entering as long as you do it separately. As for everything else, you're more experienced with that than I am. Think of something believable. It doesn't have to - no - it shouldn't concern us in any way. If anyone asks me, the person named Otis was found out shortly after leaving Tus but managed to escape. And if we are, after all, to travel together again... we'll cross that bridge when we get there." She doesn't offer any more details at the moment, but says that she'll tell Bryn when it's time for him to detach from their carriage.

After several days on the mountain path, the view finally clears as the road descends the mountain, leaving the massive range behind. The land, mostly, becomes flat and lush with vegetation. The last day on the mountain path and the first day off it are blessed by gentle periodic rains. And although this makes the soft earth of the plain land muddy, which slows travel, small streams that flow by or cross the roads occasionally offer a constant supply of running water to drink, clean or wash, even in the day following the rains, which is a little windy but not in a bothersome way.

Settlements are common, though not all are large. From just a house visible from the road to even small towns, the carriage passes through more populated areas more often, and naturally, meets a lot more people on the way. Farmers and shepherds are most numerous, although they are met by the road instead of travelling it. Merchants aren't uncommon here, nor are other travellers on their way to or back from Pyorre. The city itself, however, cannot be seen in the distance yet. Soldiers are also more common, and not only as travelling groups but also as permanent residencies of the law in certain larger settlements ("police stations"). In anything larger than a hamlet, it is almost guaranteed to find a sheriff and a deputy or two. The area is much safer, and it is very unlikely to run into any bandits here. The soldiers, in general, don't pay much attention to the Commandant's carriage.

It is not long before Arren recognises some of the larger settlements the crew passes through. And while he may not know any people there, or know only a few by name if they are figures with which he'd have been more likely to interact, like bartenders and innkeepers, he can soon approximate their distance from Pyorre. (OOC: Ah! Found it. About six days from Lory's to the plain, and then about four more to Pyorre. It makes sense that I remembered six and ten.) Of course, with named settlements, one can also check the Commandant's map.

It is late-afternoon of the third day after reaching the great plain. Less than a day's ride away from Pyorre. The carriage stops for the night at a village large enough to contain an inn that also serves as a tavern. The inn is a wooden building large enough to accommodate several groups of travellers in separate shared rooms. Not exactly private, but as not many use it so often, this allows the three soldiers and Bryn to share one room, usually meant for up to eight people, by themselves. Many of the townsfolk fill the tavern below, however, which serves as a great spot for relaxing with a mug of drink and good company after the day's work.

Although it is a little early to stop by the Commandant's usual standards, the soldiers stopped for the evening because riding all the way to Pyorre will take too long, and according to the Commandant's map, there's no closer settlement with an inn. For Bryn, Arren and Walnuts, this simply means time to relax and enjoy some rest, a warm albeit somewhat tasteless stew, and a drink if they wish to spend their coin on (at a normal price of four copper per mug of ale).

Once a stable is found where the carriage can be left for the night, and the horses can eat and rest, Lieutenant Tireur and the Commandant head directly to the inn. This leaves Bryn and Arren free to do as they please, though there's not much beside the inn for travellers to take interest in. "We'll leave tomorrow with first light. I hope to get to Pyorre in the early afternoon. This is where our parts separate," she turns to Bryn. "You may stay with us for the night, but you can't come with us in the morning. If you still wish to come to Pyorre, you just need to walk on the main road westwards. That shouldn't be difficult. Once you're there, I'll be too busy to see you, and I imagine they'll be busy with their own business too. Usually, I meet you in the barracks' stables, Sergeant al Nasrid, but perhaps we can try a place more open to the public this time. Three days from now, report back to me at midday at Corporal Peite's wife's bakery."

The Commandant then turns away towards the inn, whether or not Arren and Bryn choose to follow her. Ever since Arren began serving under Commandant Nattensbarn, he always had his time off-duty while in Pyorre. The Commandant made sure to check on him and the Lieutenant occasionally, but she usually gave them at least a week before the first time, and it was always in the stables where she'd also check on the horses. 

Arren's mood improves as they finally begin descending the mountain pass and start seeing more signs of civilization, more towns —even if small — and even a few familiar faces, whom he greets politely from afar as they pass.

He isn't particularly surprised when their usual free time is cut almost in half. He had imagined that would happen after the Commandant's urgent summons to the capital, and after all the time they had spent in Ersta and at the bandits' camp. He takes the news as patiently as he can, though inwardly he isn't pleased that he won't be able to rest as much as he needs. This journey has been more strenuous than others he's taken part in during his years serving under Commandant Nattensbarn, after all. In any case, he makes a point not to show it.

What he does show is his surprise at the change of meeting place.

"If I may ask, ma’am, why are we changing where we'll meet?" he says. "Is it because we'll be handing Corporal Peite's belongings to his wife?" He then glances at Bryn. "Will Bryn be joining us there as well?"

Seeing that they'll have some time to relax at the inn where they're spending the night, Arren turns to Walnuts and Bryn.

"Ale?" he suggests. "This might be the last time we’ll be able to share a drink before you leave for Mey," he adds, looking at Walnuts. "How about one last round before that happens? My treat."

If they agree, he buys a round for everyone. He even asks the Commandant if she would like to join them, given the occasion—her Lieutenant of five years retiring—though he won't be surprised if she declines. Either way, Arren gladly pays the twelve (or sixteen) coppers owed.

Once they're seated comfortably, a mug of ale in his hand, Arren raises it toward Walnuts.

"To Lieutenant Tireur," he says. "Thank you for all these years serving together. I wish you the best in Mey." Then he smiles and adds more quietly, "And don't go raising any baby dragons. I hear they're difficult to handle."

Bryn is also quite happy to finally leave the mountains behind them, although he knows things will be far from simple for him in Pyorre. Having found nothing suitable from passing traders, he still wears the mish-mash of clothing including the cargo trousers, Otis's shirt and the soldiers boots, armour and coat.

As they enter civilisation, he wonders at the usefulness of the trousers, contemplating whether they are really a more functional item designed to assist the wearer in some kind of labour. Why would they be in the cave, though? And what kind of assistance would they give? Perhaps helping a carpenter reach the top floor of a building they are helping to erect?

He focusses a little on them each night as he trances, knowing that the ability to jump and move faster is certainly transmutation. But there are far more ways to employ transmutation than that.

When he finally has the discussion about Pyorre with the Commandant, he is not surprised by the response that they need to split up. He had assumed as much.

"You know best, Commandant. I would assume they wouldn't look for someone arrested for using counterfeit coins too hard, but someone who had broken out of one of their prisons might just spur them on. I have no better plan for the moment though, the only papers I have relate to Otis", he says then seems to hesitate for a moment before continuing.

"I will be able to change that, but not without resources", he starts tentatively. "We haven't spoken of the share of what was found in the mountains yet, but it is a conversation we need to have now. I feel I earned a share, and even though I would attract attention with the gold, I could trade the gems in quite easily in the city expect".

"I realise I won't be able to take the Corporal's belongings back to Mrs Peite. That would attract far too much attention, but instead I would offer her the share I get, minus what I need to procure in the city. I am assuming that is something you would not be at liberty to do yourself, Commandant".

He has no problem meeting at the bakery after three days, one place is as good as another to him, but he is interested in the answer to Arren's question.

When Arren suggests Ale, he looks between the Sergeant and the Lieutenant.

"A kind offer, but I wouldn't want to intrude on your last drink together", he says allowing the pair some privacy. Of course, if they insist, he will happily relent and join them. Raising a mug to the Lieutenant, chuckling at Arren's comment about the dragon baby, and speaking of his disappointment that he never got that closer inspection of the firearm.

When the soldiers are ready to move out the next day, they will find Bryn has changed out of the remaining clothes and armour he was using of the Corporal's. They are cleaned and stacked neatly. He now wears just the clothes once owned by Otis. Including the trousers, assuming he has found no magical or mundane way to make the cargo trousers not stand out so much.

He will also leave the crossbow with them, but will keep the weapons that were purchased for him unless the Commandant requests them back. 

He will also get rid of the prison shirt he had kept with him, just in case.

"I am not sure what kind of city you imagine Pyorre to be," Commandant Nattensbarn answers Bryn, "but trading too many gems will attract attention in one way or another. But you're right in that it'll be less alarming than ancient golden coins. But, I suppose, they're of lesser historical significance, too."

The Commandant will find a chance to give Bryn three sizable gems that look like they could fetch a fair price. "I am not acquainted with anyone who'd be interested in buying them from you. Not that there aren't, but I cannot direct you to anyone in particular. Nor do I know much about gems, but I imagine these should do for you." If Bryn seems dissatisfied with the few gems he was given, the Commandant adds, "At the moment, it's more going into your pocket than any of ours. And if we're awarded any bonuses for our efforts, I'll make sure you get your cut. In legal, normal coins, that is."

When Arren asks about changing the meeting location, the Commandant answers somewhat impatiently. "Whether he'll be there or not no longer depends on me. But he'll have to risk a lot to get to the stables in the barracks, and we all better hope he keeps himself out of trouble while we're still in Pyorre, at the bare minimum."

The Lieutenant has actually served under the Commandant for longer than five years, since he's been there before Arren joined, but the Commandant still declines the offer. She's been sleeping and eating even less than usual, as she always does when nearing Pyorre. Trying to cram every moment she can to finish a little more work, she does not have time to drink.  Walnuts, meanwhile, makes sure to enjoy the evening to its fullest. He'll buy the second round if anyone still wants to drink.

((I planned to move forward today, but it seems I've gotten to writing this post a little late, and perhaps it'll be easier to separate the two posts to avoid yet another lengthy wall of text. You have a chance to post anything more if you want, until I get to post again sometime tomorrow, or just wait until I do. Then, we'll finally arrive at the capital of Katto.))

Bryn accepts the gems without fuss, tucking them away securely. He is keenly aware that in many versions of this journey he would have ended up with nothing but a pair of manacles for his troubles.

"That sounds fair," he says, meeting the Commandant's gaze. "As for Pyorre, I have not been before, but as it is the capital, I expect to find a large city with all that comes with it. Nobility, trade, military... and the seedier underbelly of society where all things are possible" he adds with a grin that suggests he’s already looking forward to reintroducing himself to the latter.

The next day is warm for the season. The sky is clear of clouds, and the wind that blows softly feels refreshing rather than chilling. By the time the soldiers depart for the last stretch of the journey, many of the townsfolk are already headed to their fields, or to meadows with their cattle, sheep or goats. 

Commandant Nattensbarn is up as early as ever, with first light. She stands impatiently waiting for either Arren or Lieutenant Tireur to be ready before heading to the carriage to prepare Choco and Mocha for the last day, leaving the other soldier behind if they aren't ready yet. She won't leave without them, but she doesn't need to wait for them either.

Once on their way, it doesn't take long for the carriage to reach the Viilto river. For Bryn, it takes a few hours, especially without the magical trousers on. The Viilto river is a wide river that flows westwards to the sea. Pyorre was built on its bank, and as it is wide and deep enough, even ships can sail through it. ((Since it's large enough, you can even see it on the map, being the river that reaches to the lower left "leg" of the letter 'K' of Katto.)) Once the road reaches the river, it leads parallel to it all the way to Pyorre. Although many walk the road, few use the river on this side of Pyorre. A small raft or a barge can still be seen occasionally.

The carriage arrives at Pyorre in the early afternoon, as the Commandant hoped. Arren must slow the carriage down in the city, but the carriage enters Pyorre and travels towards the central military's quarters without any unexpected delays. As usual, once the carriage reaches the front doors of the building, two lower-ranked soldiers already wait in anticipation to unload all of the Commandant's papers, and later, drive the carriage to the stables. Arren can leave his gear inside or take it with him, but he knows it'll be safe.

"Sergeant, you're free now. Don't forget, overmorrow at midday." Commandant Nattensbarn looks at the two soldiers who carry her work out of the carriage with some tensity but doesn't interrupt their work. Arren may notice she's holding the book she took from the cave, covered with some cloth. "Lieutenant, keep an eye for a moment, on the cargo in the back. I'll call some more hands to help with that. Afterwards, find me and we'll finalize your retirement." 

If Arren stays, he'll see the usual boring display of soldiers going back and forth into the building carrying empty boxes out, filling them with the Commandant's work, and carrying them back inside. It won't take long before the carriage is left empty. At some point, as promised, two more men appear, of a higher rank than the other two, though still lower than Arren's, to carry out the gold and gems that the crew brought with them. If Arren stayed until then, or when he was about to leave earlier, Lieutenant Tireur will bid him goodbye. "I suppose it'll be a few more days before I finally leave this place. Maybe we'll meet again before then, but otherwise... it wasn't too bad having you as my underling, Chuckles."

Once Arren leaves the military's station, he knows he has a cot in the barracks, and there are plenty of inns more comfortable if wishes to spend a few coins, but there'll always be a bed made ready for him in his mother's house, though it'll be some walk to get there. 

It takes Bryn much longer to reach Pyorre. It may seem like hitching a ride with one of the rafts might shorten the time it takes, but even if he tries, none will pick him up. And why would they? There are plenty of travellers on the road not unlike him, and they can't take them all. People have paid to get on those rafts, or paid for what is loaded on them.

By the time Bryn reaches the city's suburbs, it is already evening. There's another hour of light, more or less. A key distinction from cities in Levicka is that these residential areas outside the city's walls can rightfully be called suburbs, rather than slums. Yes, the houses are small and simple, and it is doubtful that their owners are particularly rich, but the streets are clean and ordered, people seem dignified and pleasant, and the carriages and other travellers on their way to Pyorre travel through them rather than around, and don't look too much on edge. If anything, and security personnel look rather carefree nearby, but not without reason. Soldiers patrol the area occasionally, watching for any trouble. People regard them pleasantly, though, rather than suspiciously. Many seem to know them by name even, suggesting these soldiers are posted regularly.

Nobody minds Bryn too much, as long as he keeps to himself. He is not the only traveller heading into the city at this hour. Even when he gets to the walls, nobody checks him for anything. There are walls, yes, and soldiers at the open gates, but they let people in and out without asking for papers or permits or whatnot. This would never happen in Levicka, where one needs to prove their identity just to enter any city.

Despite the hour, the streets are still busy, and yet in a very orderly fashion. There are clear paths made for carts and riders, and separate sidewalks for pedestrians. Between the city's walls, soldiers on duty are seen more often, but they don't appear any more intimidating than those outside. Nevertheless, it is apparent that wherever a person stands, somebody is watching. Bryn also notices there aren't any beggars around. At least none that he had noticed, and once again, that the streets are very clean. In fact, he sees people cleaning them occasionally, sweeping away fallen leaves from trees that grow around the city. Oil lamps stand in the corener of every street, not lit yet, but surely that too will happen soon.

And yet, to Bryn, it all seems a little lifeless. People are outside but they all look very... behaved. Even those whose look suggest they do not hail from a particularly wealthy family. People who surely couldn't receive proper education. The buildings, the streets, the walls... everything is very orderly, clean, but also plain. Perhaps it is because most of the trees' leaves have fallen by now, but Bryn sees no art, no special architecture, nothing that appeals to the eye. Almost all buildings look the same. The poles of the street lamps are straight and clean. Even the city's walls look like a collection of large, rectangular rocks. It is strange to Bryn, who only ever knew either the slums of the poor or the extravagant neighbourhoods of the nobility.

But then again, maybe it's just this side of the city. After all, he's close to the docks, which is where trade happens, and surely where people from Mey first arrive to Dite. Perhaps other areas, farther from the heart, are also farther from the eyes and the reach of the law?

Arren notices the Commandant's impatience and takes it as a clear sign that he shouldn't ask much more. Of course, they are about to reach Pyorre, and that always troubles her. He should have remembered.

He accepts Walnuts' second round, which is definitely more than he usually drinks, but since it is a special occasion he decides not to make a fuss about it.

Arren briefly considers telling Bryn where he lives, in case he wants to get in touch before those two days pass, but then refrains, thinking it might be best if they aren't seen together again before they leave the capital.

The next day, he makes sure to not increase the Commandant's impatience, and gets up as early as her and prepares very quikly, so he is by the carriage as soon as she is, if not before.

Once they make it to the central military's quarters, he waits until the carriage is taken away, and he will leave most of his gear inside. As for weapons, he'll keep the dagger on him, but will leave everything else behind. 

He nods towards Commandant Nattensbarn, saying, "I'll be there, ma'am." He watches her go, with the usual concern on his mind that she will not rest for a second and will strain herself even harder while in Pyrorre, but at the same time, he knows there's nothing he can do about it but let these days simply pass.

He will then turn to Walnuts. "Chuckles?" he repeats surprised, "So you had another nickname for me? Don't tell me you've been calling me that behind my back" He pauses, scratches the back of his head and then smiles a little, "Well, I guess I deserved that. I do prefer Sand, though". He then looks a bit more serious, and adds, "It wasn't too bad, eh? I think I'll take that as a compliment. It wasn't too bad having you as my superior, Walnuts. Quite the opposite," he extends his arm to clasp Liutenant Tireur's forearm and gives him a nod of respect, "Let's hope we still see each other again before you leave. But if not, then, best of lucks to you, Poule."

Before leaving the quarters, Arren will make sure to have a proper bath using the military's facilities. Nothing he can do about his clothes at the moment, but he'll make sure to clean his uniform - and the spare set - before they depart. He'll definitely sleep at his mother's house. Not just because she'd have him murdered if she learnt he's been in the city and hasn't visited, but because he does want to see her. It's his only family and his work doesn't allow to visit often, so he doesn't want to miss this chance.

Arren will actually enjoy the long walk home. He loves Choco and Mocha, but his body protests loudly after so many hours sitting in the carriage, and the walk will help him stretch his legs. Not only that, but he also enjoys that the can take this time slowly, without the rush of their daily routine as soldiers. He'll walk the familiar streets at a calmed rate, stopping at some shops from time to time to make sure he purchases a few of the things he wants to have when they leave the capital again (*)  He will also pick a few things for Samira, as he always does when he visits her. He will pick fresh fruit to have at home, and a simple bouquet of marigold and daisies. 

Once he reaches home and steps through the door, he'll call, "Ummi? I'm home."

(*)  I'd like Arren to purchase cooking supplies beyond the seasonings he bought in Ersta. I'm thinking of ingredients that can last a long time such as nuts, dried fruit, long-lasting vegetables (like garlic, carrots, onions, a few potatoes. Real potatoes, not stones). Maybe peas and rice as well. He'd purchase an extra backpack to keep all these together. If you need a specific list I can prepare it.

Can he buy as well a few traps so he can leave them during the nights and perhaps catch small game (instead of having to hunt for them, which is something he's not good at?)

Bryn is quite happy with the slow pace of the walk to Pyorre, mostly because this is the first time in many months he has been able to relax in his own company. He isn't locked up or masquerading as someone else, and he isn't in the company of those he is trying to prove himself to. And so he takes it slow and steady, stopping for breaks along the way to pick at his rations, and drink from his waterskin.

When he gets to the suburbs of the city, he adjusts his pack, the weight of the gems feeling suddenly heavier in his pack. He keeps his pace steady, matching the well-behaved rhythm of the populace, but his eyes are doing the work his feet cannot.

It's too clean, too quiet . A city this orderly doesn't just happen. It’s enforced. Is this what the Commandant meant? I must have sounded quite ignorant with my reply.

As he treks along, he doesn't look for the obvious—the shadowed alleys or the hooded figures. In a place like this, the real underworld wouldn't be in the shadows; it would be hiding in plain sight, mimicking the order of the city above. He looks for the glitches in the perfection: a scratch on a lamp pole that looks like a stray mark but sits at eye level, or a specific pattern of fallen leaves that hasn't been swept away yet. Perhaps there is an unusual item in a shop window that would seem inconspicuous to those not versed in Thieves' Cant.

That might have to be a search for tomorrow, it's getting late.

He also keeps an eye out for a safe place to stay. One where few questions will be asked, and fewer answers required. It needs to be something decent, that will match the fine clothing I am wearing. At least for tonight. Perhaps frequented by merchants.

He keeps an eye out for other visitors, people of means but not too rich, that he might discreetly follow. Right now, he is stranger in a new city, and he tries to drink in every nuance, anything that might help him acclimatise.

This surface level of the city is so regimented, but folk like me don't just disappear. They adapt, and they thrive, likely in plain sight.

"Oh, I fully intended to, but never had the chance," Walnuts answers in all honesty. "Between you and the Commandant, there was never anyone to call you anything behind your back. I couldn't help but think of it at some point, I can't remember when, sitting silently on a carriage for so long." He takes Arren's arm, but instead of shaking his hand, pulls Arren for a brief hug, tapping his back twice before releasing. "Though I'd say you've opened up a little over the past weeks, Arren. Maybe the presence of someone who is not a soldier pulled you out of your comfort zone, and I think that's a good thing for you. I'd better hurry now, before the Commandant's too busy to sign my papers."

((I'd say Arren will have a clean change of clothes if he wishes for it. Whether it is to a clean set of uniforms or a more casual, civilian set. Walking the streets in a soldier's uniform technically means Arren's on duty, which means there are certain standards he must uphold. Dressing as a civilian, though, restricts Arren from certain actions (anything related to enforcing the law) except for certain emergencies. Either will also have some effect on how others treat him, which varies from person to person. I'm not going to detail it, but use your imagination based on everything you know, and choose how Arren walks the streets. Oh, and certain shops give discounts for soldiers in uniform.))

Most prices are standard based on the 2024 PHB/DMG listings, but tell me what you want to buy, just in case. If Arren is in uniform, he'll have a small discount on certain things (but I can't list everything because there are just too many. If there's a discount, I'll tell you, and it'll usually be about 5-20% of the normal price). For supplies (as in, food), I'd say, for simplicity, that the cost for a day's worth of food is equal to the price of a single ration. In your character sheet, though, make sure to make a distinction between the two. As for such a "ration" of food contains, I'll leave the flavour up to you, to describe when Arren uses it.

The flowers cost Arren two silver coins (it is a beautiful bouquet, and flowers are, for some reason, never cheap).

Arren doesn't know any place that sells "traps". He'll have to search (now or in the following days). Describing how he goes about searching will also help the DM decide what he finds.

Arren finds his mother at home, overjoyed to see him as always. No, even more so, since it hasn't been as long as it usually is. Although she hadn't been expecting him, she quickly prepares dinner for him, which, despite the rush, tastes better than anything Arren had eaten since he left home. In the end, nothing beats a mother's cooking. She is, as always, in good health, even though her age is showing. She's interested in hearing about Arren's travels, as always, and in any details he chooses to share.

Bryn notices a few signs, but they are discreet, minimal, and he's not always certain whether they're intentional or not. Sometimes, it is as simple as a "this way" at an intersection, pointing in some direction, with no hint at what might lie down that path. Not only that, but since many of these might seem like imperfections to the normal person, Bryn gets the feeling that they'd often be cleaned/removed, making such signs ephemeral in nature. Following these signs might lead to something, or it might not, and in either case, Bryn's intuition that it'll take some time and effort is justified.

Despite some of its faults and its sharp differences from other cities, some things never change. Inns are common enough that Bryn can choose the one that fits him best (you can choose to pay on a per-day basis rather than per week, based on the section below the linked one. Each day paid counts for the night that precedes it, so Bryn can pay for tonight and the following day). Arren (OOC: I hope you're reading each other's parts, yes?) can live modestly for free in his mother's house/in the barracks, but will need to pay normally for anything above that.

You each have some time to spend in the city. We can play it in detail, or you can tell me what your character wants to do/achieve in these few days (until meeting the Commandant, to start), especially if it's an activity that takes time. Whichever you choose.

Arren hadn't considered that he had opened up a bit lately, but perhaps Walnuts is right. Perhaps he has shifted from a quieter demeanor to being a bit more talkative. And he agrees that is a good thing. Perhaps it wasn't so bad that Bryn didn't turn out to be who they imagined. Perhaps the journey ahead with him would be good as well, if it happens. They still have to meet at Kone Peite's bakery for that to happen.

Despite knowing that wearing his uniform would get him a few discounts, Arren chooses civilian clothing, as he considers this part of the small disconnection he will have from his work for a couple of days. If he had the usual week, he wouldn't mind staying in uniform a little longer. But since he only has a couple of days, he wants to make the most of them to relax.

As for traps, Arren begins by asking in places where practical tools are more likely to be sold. First, he checks the general market, looking for merchants who sell tools for farmers or travelers—things like rope, knives, or hunting gear. If he finds such a stall, he will ask the merchant whether they sell snares or small hunting traps, or if they know a craftsman who makes them.

If that does not lead anywhere, he will try places where such things are more likely to exist: a blacksmith, since metal traps would likely be made there; a leatherworker, who might sell cord suitable for snares, or perhaps direct him to hunters, since they are the ones who provide the hides and furs used in their trade; or a woodworker or carpenter, in case they make simple spring traps or deadfall mechanisms. If needed, Arren will also ask other soldiers in the barracks, since they might have had the same need during their travels.

Arren enjoys the time with his mother. As always, he tells her a little about his travels, but without going into much detail. First of all because some things should remain within military bounds, and secondly, so as not to worry her. He does tell her about the visit to Tus, how they fell several meters down after an earthquake tore the ground open, which led to his Lieutenant breaking his arm. The Lieutenant who, by the way, is finally retiring, and this will be their last journey together.

He tells her with sadness about Ersta, and how they had to imprison a woman for the murder of her husband "by accident". That she was a good person and they are worried for her. That they found more bandit activity than usual. But as mentioned, he doesn't go into detail.

He does tell Samira, however, that meeting Emma led him to learn a bit about cooking, and he demonstrates this by helping her prepare dinner. Hopefully, he will be more careful with the salt this time.

Arren also asks her how things are in Pyorre, and whether anything interesting has happened lately.

For the remainder of days, Arren mostly rests. But he also pays a visit to a local library, where he searches for information about the two possible destinations Bryn mentioned (Pohja or Etanna). He wants to read a bit about their history, customs, and notable people. He also looks for anything about druids—if there is any information at all about them, since they are so reclusive—and if he can find anything related to the strange root they found, all the better.

(ooc: I don't feel it necessary to play this to the detail. 
Regarding rations, I added 10 rations to my inventory, gave them the name "Long lasting ingredients" and removed 5 gold. Hope I understood correctly)

Bryn will spend his first night in Pyorre in a comfortable inn, not too indulgent but treating himself to a decent evening meal and breakfast before heading out once again the following day. He firstly wants to get the lay of land around Pyorre, so he will be up and out fairly early in order to make the most of the day. Some of the things he requires will be in the posher districts, and some will be in the poorer districts, and he will need to manage his time and appearance such that he fits in wherever he is. He will also not want to expose his real appearance to any underworld types, or risk being seen by the military police during illicit trades. This can perhaps be achieved with the use of some magic alongside simply dressing to fit.

The things he is looking to find / achieve, some dependent on selling the gems:

• Find Kone Peite's bakery, Knead-a-Break. If there is seating, he will enter dressed as Otis and purchase a pastry and hot beverage in order to observe the flow of the neighbourhood whilst maybe interacting a little with Kone and seeing if Carmelo is there. He will not mention his past or Tace at this time. He will likely return if he manages to sell the gems, and possibly on the last day before leaving.
• Purchase some clothes that will match his cargo trousers so as to be able to wander the poorer districts as well as the more affluent ones without standing out like a sore thumb. This will probably be in the fashion of a long overcoat to match his fine clothes and perhaps a long travellers coat when he is dressing down, even better would be something that is reversible. He wants to do this before any illicit dealings, in case he needs the powers of the cargo pants to make a quick exit.
• Sell the gems in a safe fashion (likely starting with just one to make sure the illicit dealer is at least honest in their dishonesty), that won't attract official attention, ensuring that he doesn't offend any local organised crime by ensuring they take their cut or tithe. Likely use of disguise self here, probably with the look of a down on their luck minor noble selling the last of the family jewels to pay off a gambling debt, or whatever story fits best in Pyorre. He would also want to determine whether one of the gems can be cut to fashion an arcane focus, even better if it can be mounted into a ring. If all seems safe, he will do the full deal.
• Find some good quality bowstring for Emil's bow, looking for either a bowyer or fletcher, or even a more generalist weapon store. He wants something of decent quality, and will avoid military supply stores. He will also need a supply of arrows and a quiver.
• Purchase a forgery kit, possibly under the counter from a seller of calligraphy supplies he will have previously scouted. Perhaps he will buy some quality inks and paper at a little above market price if he can afford it, slipping in a extra few gold for the more specialised sealing wax, gold and silver leaf and the small tools to sculpt the wax to mimic a seal. He will likely try and badge this as a hobbyist making the procurement.
• Purchase a proper disguise kit, possibly bits at a time from makeup at a theatre to wigs from a barber. He will want to be able to not just disguise himself, but Arren and the Commandant in order to be ready for anything to come.
• If he failed to acquire an arcane focus, then he will look to purchase two lodestones from a smithy or general store.
• All the while he will be keeping his eyes and ears open, and his head figuratively down, trying to the read the mood of the city.

If he can afford some studded leather armour Bryn would want to purchase that as well.

 (Fully understand this is quite a list, so will have to prioritise if necessary)

Walking as another civilian allows Arren to blend into the populace. Especially after leaving behind most of his gear that would stand out. In uniform, people are always aware of him. It is not because they've done anything wrong, but the clothes themselves attract attention because of what they represent. Sometimes, attention one could welcome, and other times, the opposite. But in casual clothes, Arren is just one among many.

Some smiths make tools for the common folk: pickaxes, hoes, ploughs, et. cetra. Asking around, Arren is told that, for hunting rabbits, the best practice is probably to lay a snare, which usually doesn't require much more than a thin yet strong rope or wire. Perhaps a few sticks, but nobody sells sticks. Larger animals might justify something specially made, like a bear trap, but that's hardly necessary for rabbits or even deer. There exist traps that are meant to trap mice and other pests at one's home, but Arren feels this isn't exactly what he needs either.

However, the smith doesn't know how to make snares himself and suggests that Arren look for someone who hunts for a living, or someone who lives outside the city. Unfortunately, he cannot direct Arren to anyone specifically. When Arren gets to the leatherworker, he can find a cord that would work for a snare. The leatherworker would sell three metres (~10 feet) of cord for three silver coins. He can sell a longer length, but not shorter. Arren is certain he doesn't need the entire length for one snare, but the leatherworker assures him it will be useful if one gets torn.

Samira offers her own perspective on cooking, watching Arren as he works and making suggestions on occasion, but is happy to see Arren is trying his best. She wasn't pleased to hear about increased bandit activity on Arren's journey, and much less when Arren tells her about how the earth almost swallowed him, saying she'll have to talk to Gaitha herself if the goddess harms her baby boy in any way. She tells him a little of what she's been doing recently, which isn't particularly exciting, but she seems to be doing well even in Arren's absence.

As for reading in a library, since print has not yet been invented, books are expensive and not just anyone can enter any library. The military has its collection, which Arren could probably gain access to, but the military's bureaucracy usually takes time. If he asks for the Commandant's help, she might be able to pull some strings for him, but it is unlikely Arren will see her before the designated time. Especially not in the first few days. Other libraries might request payment, and the best libraries often work on an invite-only basis. 

((I'll be splitting posts since I imagine your characters won't meet before meeting with the Commandant, and I don't want to make my posts too long. Bryn's post will be coming soon.))