Don-Jon's eyes dart between you both before his gaze rests on Meira. With resignation and shoulders slumped, the cowboy responds, "Don't look like I got much of a choice here, do I? How's 26% of all profits for the first year, with a 1% drop yearly thereafter sound? I don't think I can talk the mine's owner into a better deal than that."
Zephyros,
Don-Jon nods in agreement with your description of the "Vermin " and your suggestion to end their misery.
Gareth is surprised by the deal Don Jon offers. It sounds fairly generous to him, although, granted, he has little experience with such business dealings. And all they need to do is a little pest extermination.
"That sounds fair to me, but I'll defer to my companions here," the ranger says placidly, unslinging his bow. "I'm ready to eliminate the 'vermin'. I have to say though that I've never heard of such creatures before. I wonder how they came to infest your mine."
Meira offers her hand to Don-Jon to accept his offer. "I accept, presuming the rest of my companions agree. Thank you." She glances at Eldrin, hoping he can properly document this agreement.
She then steps over towards Zephyros. She pauses a moment before speaking. "You're going to put them out of the misery of... not looking friendly? How kind of you. I'm certainly glad you think I look friendly!"
She takes a breath. "Zephyros, you are likely right about the threat from these folks. But couldn't we at least try to talk to them? At least let me approach and try, with the rest of you discreetly behind me."
Zephyros nods in acknowledgement of Gareth's preparedness. He's glad the negotiation went so smoothly and quickly. A sense of admiration washes over the armored man as he watches Meira finalize the deal and thinks to himself, 'That's a fine skill to have such a way with words.'
As Meira turns her attention to Zephyros, he turns a deep shade of red, clearly embarrassed as his words are used against him. "What... no... I didn't mean it like that Ms. Meira. Please forgive my..." The sentence dies on his tongue as he fails to find the right word to use. "Yes, of course, diplomacy is worthy of the effort if such creatures are capable of such communication and are truthful in their dealings with us."
The bull of a man thinks to himself, 'Not likely'. Then says out loud, "I will be at the ready to come to your aid should it be required. Ready when you are."
As Meirasees Zephyros' reaction, a sheepish look comes to her face and she takes a step back. Her response is a bit more subdued and uncertain. "Ah, well, good you agree. Yea, of course you didn't mean..." She clearly had been bracing to press her point and was surprised at his reaction. She quickly tries to hide it though, returning to her assured demeanor. "Alright, I will go. You all stay out of sight. And let me see what I can do."
She marches right off towards the mine entrance, only slowing to a stop once she spots these rat-humans. "Oh, hello!" she says, giving them a friendly smile. "Are you folks living here? I thought this mine was empty!"
She studies them, trying to gauge their reaction to her presence and their intentions. (Insight: 9)
As she watches Zephyros go, Lyra's shoulders slump. Then she slaps her own hand with the other and mutters to herself, "Stupid hand. And stupid brain of yours, Lyra Brightspark."
Feeling dumb as a stick, Lyra returns to the others—just in time to witness the deal being struck and to hear Meira and Zephyros speaking. She doesn't interfere, and when the group heads toward the mine, she follows after them.
The cleric remains in the background as Meira does the talking, and thinks of helping as she usually does. She hesitates before extending her hand again—but this time, she believes it's appropriate.
(ooc: Guidance on Meira, which she can use during the following minute.)
You see two creatures described in the previous spoiler for Zephyros. They watch you as you approach the entrance and begin speaking to them. They converse for a moment with each other before one of them responds. In a squeaky voice, the one brandishing a shortsword says to you, "This is our mine! We prefer to be left alone, but our boss will speak with you if you desire." The creature motions for you to enter the mine and follow the second creature deeper into the mine.
You sense they are on edge at your presence, but not outright hostile.
Meira hesitates, though she tries to maintain what is now just a facade of composure. "Yes, I will speak with your boss. You should know that others make legal claims to this mine. It would be good if you don't provoke them."
With those words she follows the rat-human into the mine.
Gareth watches Meira disappear into the mine, and he moves to follow her if he's not stopped by the rat creatures. "We should stick together," he says by way of explanation.
Approaching the humanoid rat creatures, the ranger takes them in with surprise and wonderment. He didn't realize such creatures existed; they were obviously intelligent and capable of speech. He raises his hands in a gesture of peace. "I mean you no harm," he says. "May we accompany our friend to meet your boss?"
Zephyros watches as Meira and Gareth move to head inside the mine. With his trident in hand the armored warrior steps forward, intent on following. 'No way I'm letting anyone go in without me.' Zephyros thinks as he keeps his eyes on the rat creatures. He doesn't say anything. Gareth already asked for us to join Meira. All Zephyros has to do is shut up and not look intimidating to these... things. With all his will, Zephyros tries to look as meek as possible as he passes by the rats (Intimidation: 6).
If the rats move to intercept him or anyone else in the party and prevent entry after Meira, Zephyros grabs the rat and drags him outside for a discussion on proper manners (Athletics Nat 20+6=26).
As Don-Jon and Meira shake hands on their tentative agreement, Eldrin has already produced his ever-hovering quill with a flick of the wrist. His notebook open, and without waiting for approval, the young mage begins drafting.
His voice is calm but precise, each word clipped with the precision of a man deeply in his element.
“Let it be recorded: In return for services rendered beyond initial contractual obligation, namely, the clearing and reclamation of Mountain’s Toe Mine, the undersigned, one Don-Jon Raskin, hereby agrees to share a percentage of future mine profits, not less than, Meira, would you prefer a flat share or residuals tied to yield? Quarterly assessment? We could also negotiate preferred stock rights depending on how the mining operation is structured.”
Eldrin walks as he writes, his quill hovering at his side, writing with fluid strokes. As Meira turns to respond to the ratfolk's invitation, he continues muttering to himself:
“...also need a clause specifying adjudication in neutral territory, perhaps Neverwinter, and some manner of dispute resolution. I presume we’ll want clarity on whether equity includes mineral rights or just extraction profits…”
Without realizing it, Eldrin follows her steps into the cave, still writing, until a pungent scent of damp earth and rodent musk brings him back to reality. He stops mid-sentence, blinking, as he finds himself face-to-face with two humanoid ratfolk and, presumably, more beyond.
He inhales slowly through his nose, adjusting his posture as if shrugging on a less academic demeanor. “Ah. A... complication.”
He offers a slight incline of the head toward the creature with the shortsword. “Forgive the intrusion. It seems we’re operating under conflicting claims. The gentleman who hired us believes this mine belongs to his employers. You claim otherwise. I suggest, before any further assumptions are made or hostilities sparked, that we do as Meria requests and speak with your boss. With civility.” His tone carries the subtle command of someone used to academic discourse, not battlefield banter.
Eldrin slowly lowers his notebook, still half-filled with contractual notations, and sighs. “The legal language will need amending, evidently.”
The ratfolk nod in agreement as Gareth requests the party to enter with Meira (sorry Zephyros) The one carrying a shortsword watches each with beady eyes darting between each member as you walk past it. It then falls in line, bringing up the rear as you enter the mine. The entrance has two doors leading further inside—one to the east and one to the south. The creatures usher you through the southern opening that's about 8 feet tall. Inside, you pass several wooden posts that shore up the tunnels leaning against the walls and stacked up for future use.
You pass by a closed door on your right just before the tunnel wrap around to the east. Oil lanterns hang from ceiling hooks at roughly equal intervals, providing dim light throughout the mine. You are ushered through a second door that leads into a large room split into two sections. The first has several ratfolk crowding around, watching as you enter. A few of them draw blades as you enter. The second section is further away to the northeast, where you can see four [Tooltip Not Found] dozing. The stench of the place assaults your senses. Foul, stagnant air permeates the area—a mix of urine, feces, and something worse... decay and rot.
The lead ratfolk talks in hushed tones to one who has female features before stepping aside for the female to address you. She says, "Hello, strangers. Your presence here is unwanted. Why have you come?"
Don-Jon steps forward and says loudly, "This mine belongs to a business consortium based in Neverwinter. You have no claim to this mine. What have you done to the workers who were here?"
At the sound of Don-Jon, the rats in the far corner stir and begin to wake.
The female ratfolk responds to Mr. Raskin, "This mine did belong to them until we took it, just as the Shrine of Savras belonged to us before Orcs took it. Some of the miners chose violence and died as a result, some have barricaded themselves in the mine, but they are free to leave whenever they want."
Meirais a little dismayed as everyone seems to reveal themselves to the rat-humans and go inside with her. Though in all reality, she was relieved that she was not alone. It had seemed a better idea until she actually faced the possibility of being with all these other folks alone. When Don-Jon steps forward speaking loudly, she puts out a hand to push him back. "Just hold on a moment," she says softly. "Let's talk calmly."
The female ratfolk's words causes her to pause. 'Miners are stuck inside here too? We'll have to get them out as well,' she thinks. Giving a polite nod to the leader, she then turns to address the woman that had spoken to her. "We understand that you are here and claim the mine right at the moment. But this man is right that others have a different claim to this mine. What many would call a 'legal claim'. Fair or not, there are vast forces of people that would come here and assert that claim by force. But we are here now and are willing to talk. Surely there must be some way to come up with a solution without a fight." She thinks a moment, then asks, "Where is this Shrine of Savras? That isn't the one around Conyberry, is it?"
Lyra follows after the party toward the mine. Not having met ratfolk before, she isn’t quite sure how to react—her mouth falls open in surprise, and it takes effort to shift her expression to something more neutral when she finds herself face-to-face with the two guards at the door. She gives them a small wave and a nervous smile before hurrying inside.
The cleric visibly wrinkles her nose at the smell but does her best to stay composed and listen closely to what's being said. When the Temple of Savras is mentioned (Religion: 17) she tries to recall anything she might know about it. Then, unable to help herself, she blurts out, "The orcs took your shrine from you? That's awful! I'd hate it if anyone kept me from the shrines of my goddess!"
Zephyros' anxiety level increases as he sees how many adversaries surround the party. He knows these creatures have a tactical advantage and that worries the bull of a man. Reinforcements could come through any of those doors in a moments notice. Best to retreat and find a better approach if possible.
"Indeed, Orcs seem to be causing a lot of trouble in these parts. Tell us about this shrine and we may be able to get your home back."
The moment Don-Jon blurts out his accusation, Eldrin’s furrows his brow and reaches instinctively for the man’s sleeve, not forcefully, but as though trying to physically lower the volume with a yank.
He mutters under his breath, “Volume is not an argument, Master Raskin.”
As Meira attempts to smooth things over, Eldrin nods approvingly, but his mind is already spiraling through legal precedents, ownership law, and morally ambiguous case studies from Waterdeep and beyond.
He clears his throat and steps forward, not aggressively, but with the unshakable confidence of a man who has spent years watching people underestimate the power of a properly worded clause.
“It seems, we now have what I’d call a tri-claim dilemma,”he begins, speaking to the female ratfolk with a mixture of courtesy and clipped formality. “There is the original legal claim by the Neverwinter consortium, as represented by Mister Raskin here; a de facto claim by your people, through occupation; and, perhaps, a moral claim, if your account of the Shrine of Savras is accurate and this is a redress of prior injustice.”
He pauses, oppening his notebook to a fresh sheet with a flick of his fingers. The quill appears dutifully, poised and ready.
“Now, under Neverwinter property law, occupation without contest for more than a tenday, particularly in frontier territories, can, in some cases, fall under squatter’s claim, assuming no violent dispute, which I gather… is not the case here. However...”he raises a finger as though delivering a lecture at his old Order “...if the consortium abandoned their claim by failing to secure or maintain the property, and your people have since repurposed it, then the legalities become...how shall I put it...flexible.”
He glances up at the female ratfolk now, deep in thought.
“Are you seeking permanent residence here? Or restitution? Because if it’s the latter, and you have a legitimate grievance, particularly one concerning the Shrine, then perhaps we could broker an agreement between all parties that avoids further violence. Including the safe release of the barricaded miners.”
There’s a flicker of idealism beneath Eldrin’s practiced tone now, one he doesn’t often let slip. He gently floats the contract in progress closer to Meira, glancing to her for subtle approval.
“Of course,” he adds with a dry smile, “this all assumes that both parties here are willing to engage in diplomacy… rather than start a land war in the back end of nowhere.”
He looks to the female ratfolk with a polite tilt of the head. “I would very much like to hear your terms, Madam. And like Zephyros, your full account regarding the Shrine.”
Don-Jon takes a step back at Meira and Eldrin's request and allows the group to lead negotiations.
Meira,
The female ratfolk nods, agreeing, "Yes, we used to live in a temple just south of Conyberry."
Lyra,
You remember from your religious lessons that Savras is the god of divination and fate. Many years ago, the shrine’s priest-seers foresaw a barbarian attack on Conyberry, giving the townsfolk time to escape. Not all the townsfolk chose to flee, but those who did went to the shrine and brought much of the town’s gold with them. The barbarians eventually tracked the townsfolk to the shrine, besieged it, and slaughtered everyone inside. You believe it's the same temple Halia spoke of while conducting business with the group.
Zephyros & Eldrin,
The female ratfolk listens in confusion as Eldrin recites the legalese of ownership of the mine, but recognition reignites in her expression as you ask about their former home. "Yes, the Orcs came down from the mountain with a murderous rage and drove us from our home. Fortunately, we are not so easy to kill. We found this mine and claim it as our new home." Her gaze shifts to the other ratfolk in the room before adding, "If you drive away the Orcs that took our shrine, we will return the mine to the loud one you call Master Raskin."
This last bit about returning the mine causes several ratfolk around the room to shift and look around at each other. They clearly don't like the idea of leaving the mine, but a harsh look from the female brings them back in line.
At the mention of Don-Jon's name, Eldrin is a bit surprised. He was sure he uttered the words quietly so only the cowboy could hear them.
Gareth shifts on his feet nervously. He doesn't like being surrounded like this. The ratfolk weren't hostile at the moment, but they weren't exactly friendly either. Thankfully Don Jon had quieted down before things got too heated.
"It sounds like that's the best course of action then, driving away the orcs," the ranger says. "Can you tell us any more about this Shrine of yours?"
Meira looks to the ratfolk woman that seems to be speaking for her people. "You are just looking for a living space? Would you be open to moving back to the shrine?"
She gives Gareth a little nod, agreeing with his idea of clearing the temple. But she is a little wary, as it seems there were orcs back at the dwarf temple, orcs attacking the ranch north of Conyberry, and orcs attacking this temple. That and the rumors of orcs makes it seem they are quite a threat.
"Eldrin, I think you have a lot of great legalese put together. But we might just need to be flexible here. Come to a handshake agreement with details worked out later." She now turns to the ratfolk woman that seems to be speaking for her people. "You mentioned miners trapped in here. They have food and water? They are safe for now? Can we speak with them?"
Meira & Eldrin,
Don-Jon's eyes dart between you both before his gaze rests on Meira. With resignation and shoulders slumped, the cowboy responds, "Don't look like I got much of a choice here, do I? How's 26% of all profits for the first year, with a 1% drop yearly thereafter sound? I don't think I can talk the mine's owner into a better deal than that."
Zephyros,
Don-Jon nods in agreement with your description of the "Vermin " and your suggestion to end their misery.
DM for Tyranny of Dragons and Phandelver and Below, two in-person campaigns that meet weekly on Friday and Saturday nights.
Gareth is surprised by the deal Don Jon offers. It sounds fairly generous to him, although, granted, he has little experience with such business dealings. And all they need to do is a little pest extermination.
"That sounds fair to me, but I'll defer to my companions here," the ranger says placidly, unslinging his bow. "I'm ready to eliminate the 'vermin'. I have to say though that I've never heard of such creatures before. I wonder how they came to infest your mine."
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
Meira offers her hand to Don-Jon to accept his offer. "I accept, presuming the rest of my companions agree. Thank you." She glances at Eldrin, hoping he can properly document this agreement.
She then steps over towards Zephyros. She pauses a moment before speaking. "You're going to put them out of the misery of... not looking friendly? How kind of you. I'm certainly glad you think I look friendly!"
She takes a breath. "Zephyros, you are likely right about the threat from these folks. But couldn't we at least try to talk to them? At least let me approach and try, with the rest of you discreetly behind me."
Rabbit Sebrica, Sorcerer || Skarai, Monk || Lokilia Vaelphin, Druid || Liivi Orav, Barbarian || Vanizi, Warlock || Britari / Halila Talgeta / Jesa Gumovi || Neital Rhessil, Wizard
Iromae Quinaea, Cleric || Roxana Raincrest, Rogue || Meira Dheran, Rogue || Qirynna Thadri, Wizard || Crisaryn Melkial, Sorcerer
Zephyros nods in acknowledgement of Gareth's preparedness. He's glad the negotiation went so smoothly and quickly. A sense of admiration washes over the armored man as he watches Meira finalize the deal and thinks to himself, 'That's a fine skill to have such a way with words.'
As Meira turns her attention to Zephyros, he turns a deep shade of red, clearly embarrassed as his words are used against him. "What... no... I didn't mean it like that Ms. Meira. Please forgive my..." The sentence dies on his tongue as he fails to find the right word to use. "Yes, of course, diplomacy is worthy of the effort if such creatures are capable of such communication and are truthful in their dealings with us."
The bull of a man thinks to himself, 'Not likely'. Then says out loud, "I will be at the ready to come to your aid should it be required. Ready when you are."
As Meira sees Zephyros' reaction, a sheepish look comes to her face and she takes a step back. Her response is a bit more subdued and uncertain. "Ah, well, good you agree. Yea, of course you didn't mean..." She clearly had been bracing to press her point and was surprised at his reaction. She quickly tries to hide it though, returning to her assured demeanor. "Alright, I will go. You all stay out of sight. And let me see what I can do."
She marches right off towards the mine entrance, only slowing to a stop once she spots these rat-humans. "Oh, hello!" she says, giving them a friendly smile. "Are you folks living here? I thought this mine was empty!"
She studies them, trying to gauge their reaction to her presence and their intentions. (Insight: 9)
Rabbit Sebrica, Sorcerer || Skarai, Monk || Lokilia Vaelphin, Druid || Liivi Orav, Barbarian || Vanizi, Warlock || Britari / Halila Talgeta / Jesa Gumovi || Neital Rhessil, Wizard
Iromae Quinaea, Cleric || Roxana Raincrest, Rogue || Meira Dheran, Rogue || Qirynna Thadri, Wizard || Crisaryn Melkial, Sorcerer
As she watches Zephyros go, Lyra's shoulders slump. Then she slaps her own hand with the other and mutters to herself, "Stupid hand. And stupid brain of yours, Lyra Brightspark."
Feeling dumb as a stick, Lyra returns to the others—just in time to witness the deal being struck and to hear Meira and Zephyros speaking. She doesn't interfere, and when the group heads toward the mine, she follows after them.
The cleric remains in the background as Meira does the talking, and thinks of helping as she usually does. She hesitates before extending her hand again—but this time, she believes it's appropriate.
(ooc: Guidance on Meira, which she can use during the following minute.)
Peindre l'amour, peindre la vie, pleurer en couleur ♫
Auriel | Shenua | Arren | Lyra
(Meira will use the guidance on her Insight check - +3 for Insight: 12)
Rabbit Sebrica, Sorcerer || Skarai, Monk || Lokilia Vaelphin, Druid || Liivi Orav, Barbarian || Vanizi, Warlock || Britari / Halila Talgeta / Jesa Gumovi || Neital Rhessil, Wizard
Iromae Quinaea, Cleric || Roxana Raincrest, Rogue || Meira Dheran, Rogue || Qirynna Thadri, Wizard || Crisaryn Melkial, Sorcerer
Meira,
You see two creatures described in the previous spoiler for Zephyros. They watch you as you approach the entrance and begin speaking to them. They converse for a moment with each other before one of them responds. In a squeaky voice, the one brandishing a shortsword says to you, "This is our mine! We prefer to be left alone, but our boss will speak with you if you desire." The creature motions for you to enter the mine and follow the second creature deeper into the mine.
You sense they are on edge at your presence, but not outright hostile.
DM for Tyranny of Dragons and Phandelver and Below, two in-person campaigns that meet weekly on Friday and Saturday nights.
Meira hesitates, though she tries to maintain what is now just a facade of composure. "Yes, I will speak with your boss. You should know that others make legal claims to this mine. It would be good if you don't provoke them."
With those words she follows the rat-human into the mine.
Rabbit Sebrica, Sorcerer || Skarai, Monk || Lokilia Vaelphin, Druid || Liivi Orav, Barbarian || Vanizi, Warlock || Britari / Halila Talgeta / Jesa Gumovi || Neital Rhessil, Wizard
Iromae Quinaea, Cleric || Roxana Raincrest, Rogue || Meira Dheran, Rogue || Qirynna Thadri, Wizard || Crisaryn Melkial, Sorcerer
Gareth watches Meira disappear into the mine, and he moves to follow her if he's not stopped by the rat creatures. "We should stick together," he says by way of explanation.
Approaching the humanoid rat creatures, the ranger takes them in with surprise and wonderment. He didn't realize such creatures existed; they were obviously intelligent and capable of speech. He raises his hands in a gesture of peace. "I mean you no harm," he says. "May we accompany our friend to meet your boss?"
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
Zephyros watches as Meira and Gareth move to head inside the mine. With his trident in hand the armored warrior steps forward, intent on following. 'No way I'm letting anyone go in without me.' Zephyros thinks as he keeps his eyes on the rat creatures. He doesn't say anything. Gareth already asked for us to join Meira. All Zephyros has to do is shut up and not look intimidating to these... things. With all his will, Zephyros tries to look as meek as possible as he passes by the rats (Intimidation: 6).
If the rats move to intercept him or anyone else in the party and prevent entry after Meira, Zephyros grabs the rat and drags him outside for a discussion on proper manners (Athletics Nat 20+6=26).
As Don-Jon and Meira shake hands on their tentative agreement, Eldrin has already produced his ever-hovering quill with a flick of the wrist. His notebook open, and without waiting for approval, the young mage begins drafting.
His voice is calm but precise, each word clipped with the precision of a man deeply in his element.
“Let it be recorded: In return for services rendered beyond initial contractual obligation, namely, the clearing and reclamation of Mountain’s Toe Mine, the undersigned, one Don-Jon Raskin, hereby agrees to share a percentage of future mine profits, not less than, Meira, would you prefer a flat share or residuals tied to yield? Quarterly assessment? We could also negotiate preferred stock rights depending on how the mining operation is structured.”
Eldrin walks as he writes, his quill hovering at his side, writing with fluid strokes. As Meira turns to respond to the ratfolk's invitation, he continues muttering to himself:
“...also need a clause specifying adjudication in neutral territory, perhaps Neverwinter, and some manner of dispute resolution. I presume we’ll want clarity on whether equity includes mineral rights or just extraction profits…”
Without realizing it, Eldrin follows her steps into the cave, still writing, until a pungent scent of damp earth and rodent musk brings him back to reality. He stops mid-sentence, blinking, as he finds himself face-to-face with two humanoid ratfolk and, presumably, more beyond.
He inhales slowly through his nose, adjusting his posture as if shrugging on a less academic demeanor. “Ah. A... complication.”
He offers a slight incline of the head toward the creature with the shortsword. “Forgive the intrusion. It seems we’re operating under conflicting claims. The gentleman who hired us believes this mine belongs to his employers. You claim otherwise. I suggest, before any further assumptions are made or hostilities sparked, that we do as Meria requests and speak with your boss. With civility.” His tone carries the subtle command of someone used to academic discourse, not battlefield banter.
Eldrin slowly lowers his notebook, still half-filled with contractual notations, and sighs. “The legal language will need amending, evidently.”
Adventurers,
The ratfolk nod in agreement as Gareth requests the party to enter with Meira (sorry Zephyros) The one carrying a shortsword watches each with beady eyes darting between each member as you walk past it. It then falls in line, bringing up the rear as you enter the mine. The entrance has two doors leading further inside—one to the east and one to the south. The creatures usher you through the southern opening that's about 8 feet tall. Inside, you pass several wooden posts that shore up the tunnels leaning against the walls and stacked up for future use.
You pass by a closed door on your right just before the tunnel wrap around to the east. Oil lanterns hang from ceiling hooks at roughly equal intervals, providing dim light throughout the mine. You are ushered through a second door that leads into a large room split into two sections. The first has several ratfolk crowding around, watching as you enter. A few of them draw blades as you enter. The second section is further away to the northeast, where you can see four [Tooltip Not Found] dozing. The stench of the place assaults your senses. Foul, stagnant air permeates the area—a mix of urine, feces, and something worse... decay and rot.
The lead ratfolk talks in hushed tones to one who has female features before stepping aside for the female to address you. She says, "Hello, strangers. Your presence here is unwanted. Why have you come?"
Don-Jon steps forward and says loudly, "This mine belongs to a business consortium based in Neverwinter. You have no claim to this mine. What have you done to the workers who were here?"
At the sound of Don-Jon, the rats in the far corner stir and begin to wake.
The female ratfolk responds to Mr. Raskin, "This mine did belong to them until we took it, just as the Shrine of Savras belonged to us before Orcs took it. Some of the miners chose violence and died as a result, some have barricaded themselves in the mine, but they are free to leave whenever they want."
What do you do?
DM for Tyranny of Dragons and Phandelver and Below, two in-person campaigns that meet weekly on Friday and Saturday nights.
Meira is a little dismayed as everyone seems to reveal themselves to the rat-humans and go inside with her. Though in all reality, she was relieved that she was not alone. It had seemed a better idea until she actually faced the possibility of being with all these other folks alone. When Don-Jon steps forward speaking loudly, she puts out a hand to push him back. "Just hold on a moment," she says softly. "Let's talk calmly."
The female ratfolk's words causes her to pause. 'Miners are stuck inside here too? We'll have to get them out as well,' she thinks. Giving a polite nod to the leader, she then turns to address the woman that had spoken to her. "We understand that you are here and claim the mine right at the moment. But this man is right that others have a different claim to this mine. What many would call a 'legal claim'. Fair or not, there are vast forces of people that would come here and assert that claim by force. But we are here now and are willing to talk. Surely there must be some way to come up with a solution without a fight." She thinks a moment, then asks, "Where is this Shrine of Savras? That isn't the one around Conyberry, is it?"
Rabbit Sebrica, Sorcerer || Skarai, Monk || Lokilia Vaelphin, Druid || Liivi Orav, Barbarian || Vanizi, Warlock || Britari / Halila Talgeta / Jesa Gumovi || Neital Rhessil, Wizard
Iromae Quinaea, Cleric || Roxana Raincrest, Rogue || Meira Dheran, Rogue || Qirynna Thadri, Wizard || Crisaryn Melkial, Sorcerer
Lyra follows after the party toward the mine. Not having met ratfolk before, she isn’t quite sure how to react—her mouth falls open in surprise, and it takes effort to shift her expression to something more neutral when she finds herself face-to-face with the two guards at the door. She gives them a small wave and a nervous smile before hurrying inside.
The cleric visibly wrinkles her nose at the smell but does her best to stay composed and listen closely to what's being said. When the Temple of Savras is mentioned (Religion: 17) she tries to recall anything she might know about it. Then, unable to help herself, she blurts out, "The orcs took your shrine from you? That's awful! I'd hate it if anyone kept me from the shrines of my goddess!"
Peindre l'amour, peindre la vie, pleurer en couleur ♫
Auriel | Shenua | Arren | Lyra
Zephyros' anxiety level increases as he sees how many adversaries surround the party. He knows these creatures have a tactical advantage and that worries the bull of a man. Reinforcements could come through any of those doors in a moments notice. Best to retreat and find a better approach if possible.
"Indeed, Orcs seem to be causing a lot of trouble in these parts. Tell us about this shrine and we may be able to get your home back."
The moment Don-Jon blurts out his accusation, Eldrin’s furrows his brow and reaches instinctively for the man’s sleeve, not forcefully, but as though trying to physically lower the volume with a yank.
He mutters under his breath, “Volume is not an argument, Master Raskin.”
As Meira attempts to smooth things over, Eldrin nods approvingly, but his mind is already spiraling through legal precedents, ownership law, and morally ambiguous case studies from Waterdeep and beyond.
He clears his throat and steps forward, not aggressively, but with the unshakable confidence of a man who has spent years watching people underestimate the power of a properly worded clause.
“It seems, we now have what I’d call a tri-claim dilemma,” he begins, speaking to the female ratfolk with a mixture of courtesy and clipped formality. “There is the original legal claim by the Neverwinter consortium, as represented by Mister Raskin here; a de facto claim by your people, through occupation; and, perhaps, a moral claim, if your account of the Shrine of Savras is accurate and this is a redress of prior injustice.”
He pauses, oppening his notebook to a fresh sheet with a flick of his fingers. The quill appears dutifully, poised and ready.
“Now, under Neverwinter property law, occupation without contest for more than a tenday, particularly in frontier territories, can, in some cases, fall under squatter’s claim, assuming no violent dispute, which I gather… is not the case here. However...” he raises a finger as though delivering a lecture at his old Order “...if the consortium abandoned their claim by failing to secure or maintain the property, and your people have since repurposed it, then the legalities become...how shall I put it...flexible.”
He glances up at the female ratfolk now, deep in thought.
“Are you seeking permanent residence here? Or restitution? Because if it’s the latter, and you have a legitimate grievance, particularly one concerning the Shrine, then perhaps we could broker an agreement between all parties that avoids further violence. Including the safe release of the barricaded miners.”
There’s a flicker of idealism beneath Eldrin’s practiced tone now, one he doesn’t often let slip. He gently floats the contract in progress closer to Meira, glancing to her for subtle approval.
“Of course,” he adds with a dry smile, “this all assumes that both parties here are willing to engage in diplomacy… rather than start a land war in the back end of nowhere.”
He looks to the female ratfolk with a polite tilt of the head. “I would very much like to hear your terms, Madam. And like Zephyros, your full account regarding the Shrine.”
Don-Jon takes a step back at Meira and Eldrin's request and allows the group to lead negotiations.
Meira,
The female ratfolk nods, agreeing, "Yes, we used to live in a temple just south of Conyberry."
Lyra,
You remember from your religious lessons that Savras is the god of divination and fate. Many years ago, the shrine’s priest-seers foresaw a barbarian attack on Conyberry, giving the townsfolk time to escape. Not all the townsfolk chose to flee, but those who did went to the shrine and brought much of the town’s gold with them. The barbarians eventually tracked the townsfolk to the shrine, besieged it, and slaughtered everyone inside. You believe it's the same temple Halia spoke of while conducting business with the group.
Zephyros & Eldrin,
The female ratfolk listens in confusion as Eldrin recites the legalese of ownership of the mine, but recognition reignites in her expression as you ask about their former home. "Yes, the Orcs came down from the mountain with a murderous rage and drove us from our home. Fortunately, we are not so easy to kill. We found this mine and claim it as our new home." Her gaze shifts to the other ratfolk in the room before adding, "If you drive away the Orcs that took our shrine, we will return the mine to the loud one you call Master Raskin."
This last bit about returning the mine causes several ratfolk around the room to shift and look around at each other. They clearly don't like the idea of leaving the mine, but a harsh look from the female brings them back in line.
At the mention of Don-Jon's name, Eldrin is a bit surprised. He was sure he uttered the words quietly so only the cowboy could hear them.
DM for Tyranny of Dragons and Phandelver and Below, two in-person campaigns that meet weekly on Friday and Saturday nights.
Gareth shifts on his feet nervously. He doesn't like being surrounded like this. The ratfolk weren't hostile at the moment, but they weren't exactly friendly either. Thankfully Don Jon had quieted down before things got too heated.
"It sounds like that's the best course of action then, driving away the orcs," the ranger says. "Can you tell us any more about this Shrine of yours?"
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
Meira looks to the ratfolk woman that seems to be speaking for her people. "You are just looking for a living space? Would you be open to moving back to the shrine?"
She gives Gareth a little nod, agreeing with his idea of clearing the temple. But she is a little wary, as it seems there were orcs back at the dwarf temple, orcs attacking the ranch north of Conyberry, and orcs attacking this temple. That and the rumors of orcs makes it seem they are quite a threat.
"Eldrin, I think you have a lot of great legalese put together. But we might just need to be flexible here. Come to a handshake agreement with details worked out later." She now turns to the ratfolk woman that seems to be speaking for her people. "You mentioned miners trapped in here. They have food and water? They are safe for now? Can we speak with them?"
Rabbit Sebrica, Sorcerer || Skarai, Monk || Lokilia Vaelphin, Druid || Liivi Orav, Barbarian || Vanizi, Warlock || Britari / Halila Talgeta / Jesa Gumovi || Neital Rhessil, Wizard
Iromae Quinaea, Cleric || Roxana Raincrest, Rogue || Meira Dheran, Rogue || Qirynna Thadri, Wizard || Crisaryn Melkial, Sorcerer