Looking at the document in her hand, Quill silently weighed her options until finally the need for information outweighed her momentary fear. Looking up at Rand, for once unsmiling, she gave her answer. "There is just one thing wrong you said in those statements. I am no merchant, at least not yet. " .Nodding briskly once, she shook the bard's hand, her decision made. "Very well, I'll help you anyway. Too many pieces missing from my puzzle to complete it yet. And I want those pieces. Fair warning though, I will ask for information and help. But I will not lie. I can't lie is more like it. Can't keep a secret either even when I try. Still I will try it you ask me. " Silently Quills admiration for the Bard went up a notch for his honesty. Then without a word, she released his hand striding forward without a clue where she was going, but determined to accomplish her task. "You coming Magpie?"
Damien watched from the shadows of the rooftops as the two looneys went about through the streets, not being any were near as discreet as they thought they were being.
'Note to self. Don't let them recon. Ever.'
Seeing them move on ahead, he made sure to actually stay unseen.
Thom turned and took the lead once more "I will not ask you to lie. I do that enough for both of us." For the entire party perhaps "You may reveal our meeting with Sylvan to the others, I don't expect you to remain quiet on that." The chances of their visit remaining quiet were slim to none, especially if someone else came to visit Syndra but their true purpose would be. "However the eyes and ears must be kept secret for now. We still don't know who we can trust completely, and as I already expressed, if word reaches Syndra the consequences could be...dire." Thom turned down another road nearing the Merchant Princes Villa. "We near the villa Syndra said she will stay at. When we arrive I will take the lead, after the meeting, we will request permission to view the beauties of the villa before departing for an inn. This should give us an hour to find and tip the servants. Thom realizing that he was speaking to someone who had never done something like this in their life, decided to explain a little further. "Since I estimate we only have an hour, focus on those servants who tend to banquets and give meals to the Nobles. Nobles tend to be open lipped when drunk, and servants pick up on anything. Just be on the lookout for servants carrying meals. This late at night, Nobles are bound to be eating. It's getting late, and we have delayed longer than either of us probably wishes. So the quicker we get this done the better"
As Thom and Quill approached the entrance he gave a bow to the men/women at the door. "We are here to give a report to Syndra. I apologize about the lateness but we have to leave early in the morning and believe it important that Syndra knows about the progress, instead of being left in the dark."
The Guard shook his head. "I am sorry Sir but Lady Syndra is currently asleep. Also, our Master does not permit visitors without an appointment no matter whos calling at the door. Visiting hours are over and that is that."
"I completely understand the hour is late but Syndra made it very clear we were to inform her before we left." Thom brought a look of worry and dread on his face as he continued to speak. "She made it clear that she was never to be kept in the dark on our doing so that she knows her investment is paying dividends. Thoms' eyes darted back and forth in an attempt to make himself appear even more worried. "I am afraid that our guide means us to leave well before visiting hours and we may not return for months. I would hate for her to think we ran off with her money and would hate to have her think the guards were in on it. He mumbled as he finished speaking.
The guard rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "Well.. if an order's an order... Wait here." The Guard entered and returned a few moments later. "Follow me." The guard guided the pair into a elaborate sitting room. Several chairs sat around a hearth which currently sat void of heat. A multi colored rug sat in the center of the room and several more hung on the walls. Between each Rug hung several decorative swords. The Guard offered them chairs and then stood by the entrance to the room. After several minutes Sandra entered the room followed by another man. The expression on Syndra's face appeared annoyed well that of the man seemed intrigued. Upon entering the room Sandra immediately took a chair across from the pair well the man occupied the other. "The Guards tell me I told you to come find me at any hour of the day... or night.. Give me one reason why I shouldn't have them throw you out?" The older man placed a hand on Syndra's Shoulder. "Come now, Syndra. Let's hear them out. They must have a good reason for coming at this hour of the night."
"I apologize Mistress, but at no time did I ever mention a time of day. Thom opened his arms as if to suggest ignorance and that it was an obvious mistake on no part of Thoms. "I merely informed them that we would be leaving for a long period of time come morning and that you would perhaps...be worried if a party you hired disappeared not even twenty-four hours after paying them? Thom finished with a look of sincere apology on his face. Thom looked at the man who had spoken standing near Syndra. It is a pleasure to meet you, sir. As I informed the guards, we are to be leaving early in the morning and I have information to share with you. Thom realizing that the earlier plan of touring the villa would probably not work this late in the night and made a quick change to it. He would have to trust Quill to get the job done. Giving Quill a look that he hoped appeared concerned, Thom spoke with worry in his voice "Before I begin sir, may I request that Quill is taken to the kitchens for a meal. I am afraid she is but a child that got excited about seeing a villa and has forgotten to eat. I would hate for her to pass out delaying in providing you with information of importance and... Thom eyed Syndra concern still on his face "...causing you to lose more sleep than necessary."
(DECEPTION CHECK! PASSED) "Marcus!" The Guard by the door stepped forward. "Please take the young girl to the Kitchen and ask the Cook to give her the best." The Guard motioned the girl to follow and the pair left the room together closing the door behind them. When the pair left the man focused his full attention on the other. "Now, you couldn't have come all this way at this hour of the night just to show a girl what a Villa looked like from the inside. You already stated to my Guard you must speak to Syndra before you head out as you have vital information for her.
For Quill:
The Guard guided the young girl through several halls until they arrived at a wooden table where he motioned her to sit. Behind the table hung several pots and pans. A fire burned in the hearth near by where a steaming Pot hung over the flames. The pot gave off the aroma of fresh beef stew and a smell of sweetly backed cake drifted throughout the room. A round fat cook flowed into the room, placed a white apron over his girth, and began preparing a plate for the girl. It only took the Cook a quick minute to set a plate of freshly cooked chicken in-front of the girl. A bowl of the Beef Stew and a plate with a slice of Chocolate Cake followed the plate. A Mug of grape juice was offered to help wash it all down."I hear it's your first time visiting a Villa. What do you think?"
Damien listens in from the room next door, having passed the guards with no real effort. He listened in on the idiocy that was Thom's plan actually working and what more, actually fooling their employer. 'Does being blood thirsty make you smarter than everyone else!? Why is his plan actually working?''
Hearing the guard take the halfling away, Damien sighs and follows stealthily after her. He had already heard the bard's ploy, so might as well see if the halfling goes through on her end.
Eyes wide and darting side from side, Quill immediately snatched at the cake, moaning at pleasure at the deliciousness that exploded in her mouth. "This is soooooo.....good! Divine! Wonderous! Oh my blessed stars, did you make this? " Shipping her mouth between bites, Quill allowed her gaze to click around the room taking in everything as she answered the jolly cook. "I wouldn't say it's my first time. I visited one once." Frowning as she chewed, she tried to remember the major from earlier. "If you can call it that. Didn't stay long. Someone called my Uncle see, only be broke his ankle, and well of course I had to come and then we'll one thing to another and I got rushed out, and never really got to see the place. From what I saw though, it is nothing compared to this though. Do you truly eat like this all the time? Ive never had the like! Of course it have to be divine, a grand place like this. Your master must be right proud having a cook like you! Have you worked here long?" Slowing down now that the sweet divine wonderful cake was gone, Quill let her natural curiosity take over, instantly at ease around the jolly cook.
Thom watched as Quill left the room. It's all up to you now child. Thom turned to the gentleman as he spoke and gave a quick bow. "Thomdril Merrilin at your service. Though many in this town know me by Rand Althor. Thom sat in the chair that was offered to him earlier. "Our party sets out for Wyrmheart Mines in the morning. There is a rumor of a Red Dragon in its depths. Thom went on confidently. " Terrible business if it proves even the least bit true. However, I am afraid we must risk it in the hopes that we find what Mistress Syndra has tasked us with. Thom studied Syndra for a moment before continuing on. Was she getting worse? "We both know that if there is a Red Dragon in its depth that our party stands little chance of succeeding. As such, I come to present a business opportunity." Thom pulled a parchment from his cloak with a detailed list of supplies needed for traveling into the forest and a few extras for dealing with the Red Dragon."Our party brings an expert calligrapher with us. That starving child, who you graciously agreed to feed, interestingly enough. As you know nothing is known about the lands of this island past this port. Thom changed the expression on his face to disgust as he said. "...And every guide we have spoken to has refused to share information, instead choosing to make coin off it themselves.With our cartographer, we will compose the one and only complete map...He hated that he was already back to Daes Dae'mar but it was necessary. "...which I will be willing to part with in exchange for the supplies that will see Mistress Syndra's party doesn't come to its sticky end once again. Thom etched a look of interest on his face. "Surely you know how valuable a map such as that would be." Thom switched to an expression of wonder. "The number of people that would latch to your side, and pay you just for the information that only you could give would reimburse you twofold."
The cook let out a joyous laugh. "My Girl, you have placed a smile on this mans face. I cook each meal for everyone who dines at this Villa. I have been doing so since before Master Wakanga purchased it. It sounds like you are not from Chult. are you? May I ask where you are from?"
Thom:
"A Cartographer you say?"The man leaned forward in his seat. "And the map is mine when it is complete? That would be some offer. What do you think, Syndra?" Syndra leaned forward with annoyance in her eyes. "When we departed I had already provided your party with 50GP for your trips expenditures. Second off, why do you believe the Soulmonger would be in Wyrmheart mine and guarded by a Dragon? Do you have any reliable sources stating as such?" Closing her eyes Syndra breathed deeply before opening them again. "How would giv..." She cut off at the man's raised hand. "Now Syndra, this man comes offering us a great treasure. A map of the entire island? And a Cartographer to do it! What a treat that would be. But you must understand this Bard. What you ask is very costly. Even with a Map not many would venture more then is required.. And as Syndra mentioned. She already provided you with Gold. What did you do with the Gold she graciously provided you?"
Thom smiled, perhaps this would work after all. "I will offer an answer to both questions. As I believe Syndra deserves to know where her investment has gone. Thom placed his arms in his lap, a solemn expression on his face. "You did provide 50 gold pieces for our trip but we were under the impression the pack animals we requested would not be needed. Thom switched his expression to shock. "Now that we are to set out for the mines we find that not only are they needed but, they are extremely costly." As my estimates show a months supply of rations for a party of seven would be 120 gold. Water would be 42 gold. The barrels to hold the water would be 6 gold. Thom began holding up fingers as he listed off the costs of supplies needed for the party. Pack animals are going to be upwards of 50 gold, as we would need at least three to hold all the rations and water we need to make the trip. Thom quickly added up the total in his head double checking what he had written down on the parchment he had given earlier. We are looking at a total of 212 gold and that is a very rough estimate. There are many things which I have not included such as a months worth of feed for each pack animal, cooking supplies, water skin replacements, lamps, candles, or lanterns, oil for those lanterns, rope, tinderboxes, torches, tents..." Thom continued to list everything he knew would be important for the trip that others may not have thought of. "...if I were to leave off all of those we are looking at over 30 gold a person. Throw in the necessary equipment such as armor and weapons for the task you are asking us to undertake is nowhere near enough for the trip." Thom adopted an expression of worry mixed with appreciation. "Allow me to pick up the things we need whenever we set out for the jungles, with you picking up the tab and I will present myself before you with every new addition to our map the moment I arrive in port. This will allow you to see that your investment is well worth, and provide you with an opportunity to earn what I spend back, and then some."
The Cook and the Girl mingled as she ate. She explained to him about Baldur's Gate and how she was now here doing work her Uncle would normally do for her. How she had somehow found herself here and did not feel prepared for it yet she was going to try her best anyways. The Cook enjoyed her story and offered up another piece of cake for her to enjoy. When Quill changed the subject to Mistress Syndra and began to compliment her hoping it would cause the Cook to open up about the woman. However, the cook had nothing to share. Apparently the Woman was a friend of the Merchant Prince and rarely came to Chult. He had no information to offer up to her on the subject of Syndra. (PERSUASION CHECK: FAILED)
Though disappointing on learning little about Syndra, Quill did not give up. Instead she turned her focus on the other Merchant Princes and Nobles of the land. She asked for information about them. Asked for any detail she could think about. From the locations of the Villas to how they liked their drinks in the morning. Who they conversed with... anything which might be useful to Rand and the rest of the Group. At the hail of questions the Cook growled under his breath and gave a hard look at the girl. "Something tells me your up to something and I do.. not.. like.. it.. I think you should finish your meal and get back to your friend. Marcus will escort you when you finish eating. (PERSUASION CHECK: CRITICAL FAILURE!, ALL OTHER PREPARED QUESTIONS CANCELED OUT AND NO FUTURE QUESTIONING OF THE COOK PERMITTED.)" The Cook slammed his apron on the table and walked out of the room angrily. Marcus stood closely behind Quill and watched her closely as she finished her meal silently.
"I doubt Syndra has told you much about me. I am a man intrigued by knowledge, information, and lost lore." The man reaches into his pocket and pulls out a tattered, water damaged book. "This book was brought out of the Jungle 15 years ago. It's a heavily damaged Explorers Journal. Inside it describes various places within Chult but not enough to pinpoint any exact location. The unnamed Author, however does make many mentions of his only traveling companion. A shield guardian named Vorn controlled by an Amulet it is bound too." Opening the book, the man hands it over to Thom. "This Amulet is the one which controls Vorn. Now, I dont know where the Amulet is but I do know where Vorn can be found." The man pulled a piece of parchment out of his pocket and handed it to Thom. "I will provide you with a Pack Animal and a months Rations of Food and Water for your party and the Animal. In exchange you will find the Amulet, retrieve this Shield Guardian, and bring it back to me. You do this for me and I will let you keep the Pack Animal and provide you with one more month of Food and Water. Do we have a deal?"
Thom thought for a moment. Trying to contemplate the information he was receiving. Tracking down this amulet would be difficult. Perhaps if he took a look at this Vorn. "Very well, we have a deal. I will track down this amulet and bring you Vorn. We depart Kayla's in the early morning. If you would not mind having the supplies brought there. Thom didn't bother asking how long he had. If the man wasn't going to make mention of it then, he wasn't going to bring it up With a bow Thom headed towards the door new information in hand.
Thom meets Quill as he was being led out, only partly saddened to hear that her task wasn't successful. At least we got something out of it. Perhaps I will have to try for eyes and ears elsewhere thought Thom.
OOC: Assuming nothing happens on our way we head to the Inn for rest.
Damien watches as Thom and Quill leave the villia. He came with them in search of something to fill the madness in his mind. He was glad to say he had. Sadly though, it was replaced by the singular notion that follows.
"Everyone of them are idiots." He muttered to himself from his spot on the roof of Kaya's. He was massaging the bridge if his nose in agony over his discovery of how stupid everyone involved was. With a heavy sigh, he closes his eyes and rests.
The sun rises high over the Island of Chult as our Party members slowly rise from sleep. In front of Kayla's sits two Triceratops attached to a Wooden Wagon. Jammed pack with Barrels of Food and Water, the Merchant Prince Wakanga stands waiting to deliver as agreed upon. Syndra stands next to him in order to wish the Party off with high spirits. Xandala arrives shortly after Wakanga and waits patiently for the Druid from the previous night with a backpack at her feet. Her pet lazily rests on her right shoulder, basking in the early morning sun. Salida arrives moments later, a backpack and supplies strapped to her back and ready for a long journey.
Taking a moment to stretch out his body, Damien peers over the edge of his perch, on the roof to spot the many visitors that the groups had. Deciding to go greet them. he pulls up his red hood and goes down the side of Kaya's. However, he finds that his attempts to do so quietly, aren't as he'd like, with his body still waking up from its slumber. He is noticed by the various guests, but ignores most of them and walks over to Salida, "You're early. Not a bad thing, but still, glad to see you I guess." He glances at the chart and dinos that are with it, than at the two persons whom's vilia he had entered unnoticed. Not caring much he looks over to the lady with the pseudo-dragon, placing a hand on his hip and leaning slightly to get in full view of her, he asks,"So what are you here for?"
Looking at the document in her hand, Quill silently weighed her options until finally the need for information outweighed her momentary fear. Looking up at Rand, for once unsmiling, she gave her answer. "There is just one thing wrong you said in those statements. I am no merchant, at least not yet. " .Nodding briskly once, she shook the bard's hand, her decision made. "Very well, I'll help you anyway. Too many pieces missing from my puzzle to complete it yet. And I want those pieces. Fair warning though, I will ask for information and help. But I will not lie. I can't lie is more like it. Can't keep a secret either even when I try. Still I will try it you ask me. " Silently Quills admiration for the Bard went up a notch for his honesty. Then without a word, she released his hand striding forward without a clue where she was going, but determined to accomplish her task. "You coming Magpie?"
Damien watched from the shadows of the rooftops as the two looneys went about through the streets, not being any were near as discreet as they thought they were being.
'Note to self. Don't let them recon. Ever.'
Seeing them move on ahead, he made sure to actually stay unseen.
Thom turned and took the lead once more "I will not ask you to lie. I do that enough for both of us." For the entire party perhaps "You may reveal our meeting with Sylvan to the others, I don't expect you to remain quiet on that." The chances of their visit remaining quiet were slim to none, especially if someone else came to visit Syndra but their true purpose would be. "However the eyes and ears must be kept secret for now. We still don't know who we can trust completely, and as I already expressed, if word reaches Syndra the consequences could be...dire." Thom turned down another road nearing the Merchant Princes Villa. "We near the villa Syndra said she will stay at. When we arrive I will take the lead, after the meeting, we will request permission to view the beauties of the villa before departing for an inn. This should give us an hour to find and tip the servants. Thom realizing that he was speaking to someone who had never done something like this in their life, decided to explain a little further. "Since I estimate we only have an hour, focus on those servants who tend to banquets and give meals to the Nobles. Nobles tend to be open lipped when drunk, and servants pick up on anything. Just be on the lookout for servants carrying meals. This late at night, Nobles are bound to be eating. It's getting late, and we have delayed longer than either of us probably wishes. So the quicker we get this done the better"
As Thom and Quill approached the entrance he gave a bow to the men/women at the door. "We are here to give a report to Syndra. I apologize about the lateness but we have to leave early in the morning and believe it important that Syndra knows about the progress, instead of being left in the dark."
The Guard shook his head. "I am sorry Sir but Lady Syndra is currently asleep. Also, our Master does not permit visitors without an appointment no matter whos calling at the door. Visiting hours are over and that is that."
"I completely understand the hour is late but Syndra made it very clear we were to inform her before we left." Thom brought a look of worry and dread on his face as he continued to speak. "She made it clear that she was never to be kept in the dark on our doing so that she knows her investment is paying dividends. Thoms' eyes darted back and forth in an attempt to make himself appear even more worried. "I am afraid that our guide means us to leave well before visiting hours and we may not return for months. I would hate for her to think we ran off with her money and would hate to have her think the guards were in on it. He mumbled as he finished speaking.
The guard rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "Well.. if an order's an order... Wait here." The Guard entered and returned a few moments later. "Follow me." The guard guided the pair into a elaborate sitting room. Several chairs sat around a hearth which currently sat void of heat. A multi colored rug sat in the center of the room and several more hung on the walls. Between each Rug hung several decorative swords. The Guard offered them chairs and then stood by the entrance to the room. After several minutes Sandra entered the room followed by another man. The expression on Syndra's face appeared annoyed well that of the man seemed intrigued. Upon entering the room Sandra immediately took a chair across from the pair well the man occupied the other. "The Guards tell me I told you to come find me at any hour of the day... or night.. Give me one reason why I shouldn't have them throw you out?" The older man placed a hand on Syndra's Shoulder. "Come now, Syndra. Let's hear them out. They must have a good reason for coming at this hour of the night."
"I apologize Mistress, but at no time did I ever mention a time of day. Thom opened his arms as if to suggest ignorance and that it was an obvious mistake on no part of Thoms. "I merely informed them that we would be leaving for a long period of time come morning and that you would perhaps...be worried if a party you hired disappeared not even twenty-four hours after paying them? Thom finished with a look of sincere apology on his face. Thom looked at the man who had spoken standing near Syndra. It is a pleasure to meet you, sir. As I informed the guards, we are to be leaving early in the morning and I have information to share with you. Thom realizing that the earlier plan of touring the villa would probably not work this late in the night and made a quick change to it. He would have to trust Quill to get the job done. Giving Quill a look that he hoped appeared concerned, Thom spoke with worry in his voice "Before I begin sir, may I request that Quill is taken to the kitchens for a meal. I am afraid she is but a child that got excited about seeing a villa and has forgotten to eat. I would hate for her to pass out delaying in providing you with information of importance and... Thom eyed Syndra concern still on his face "...causing you to lose more sleep than necessary."
(DECEPTION CHECK! PASSED) "Marcus!" The Guard by the door stepped forward. "Please take the young girl to the Kitchen and ask the Cook to give her the best." The Guard motioned the girl to follow and the pair left the room together closing the door behind them. When the pair left the man focused his full attention on the other. "Now, you couldn't have come all this way at this hour of the night just to show a girl what a Villa looked like from the inside. You already stated to my Guard you must speak to Syndra before you head out as you have vital information for her.
For Quill:
The Guard guided the young girl through several halls until they arrived at a wooden table where he motioned her to sit. Behind the table hung several pots and pans. A fire burned in the hearth near by where a steaming Pot hung over the flames. The pot gave off the aroma of fresh beef stew and a smell of sweetly backed cake drifted throughout the room. A round fat cook flowed into the room, placed a white apron over his girth, and began preparing a plate for the girl. It only took the Cook a quick minute to set a plate of freshly cooked chicken in-front of the girl. A bowl of the Beef Stew and a plate with a slice of Chocolate Cake followed the plate. A Mug of grape juice was offered to help wash it all down. "I hear it's your first time visiting a Villa. What do you think?"
Damien listens in from the room next door, having passed the guards with no real effort. He listened in on the idiocy that was Thom's plan actually working and what more, actually fooling their employer. 'Does being blood thirsty make you smarter than everyone else!? Why is his plan actually working?''
Hearing the guard take the halfling away, Damien sighs and follows stealthily after her. He had already heard the bard's ploy, so might as well see if the halfling goes through on her end.
Eyes wide and darting side from side, Quill immediately snatched at the cake, moaning at pleasure at the deliciousness that exploded in her mouth. "This is soooooo.....good! Divine! Wonderous! Oh my blessed stars, did you make this? " Shipping her mouth between bites, Quill allowed her gaze to click around the room taking in everything as she answered the jolly cook. "I wouldn't say it's my first time. I visited one once." Frowning as she chewed, she tried to remember the major from earlier. "If you can call it that. Didn't stay long. Someone called my Uncle see, only be broke his ankle, and well of course I had to come and then we'll one thing to another and I got rushed out, and never really got to see the place. From what I saw though, it is nothing compared to this though. Do you truly eat like this all the time? Ive never had the like! Of course it have to be divine, a grand place like this. Your master must be right proud having a cook like you! Have you worked here long?" Slowing down now that the sweet divine wonderful cake was gone, Quill let her natural curiosity take over, instantly at ease around the jolly cook.
Thom watched as Quill left the room. It's all up to you now child. Thom turned to the gentleman as he spoke and gave a quick bow. "Thomdril Merrilin at your service. Though many in this town know me by Rand Althor. Thom sat in the chair that was offered to him earlier. "Our party sets out for Wyrmheart Mines in the morning. There is a rumor of a Red Dragon in its depths. Thom went on confidently. " Terrible business if it proves even the least bit true. However, I am afraid we must risk it in the hopes that we find what Mistress Syndra has tasked us with. Thom studied Syndra for a moment before continuing on. Was she getting worse? "We both know that if there is a Red Dragon in its depth that our party stands little chance of succeeding. As such, I come to present a business opportunity." Thom pulled a parchment from his cloak with a detailed list of supplies needed for traveling into the forest and a few extras for dealing with the Red Dragon."Our party brings an expert calligrapher with us. That starving child, who you graciously agreed to feed, interestingly enough. As you know nothing is known about the lands of this island past this port. Thom changed the expression on his face to disgust as he said. "...And every guide we have spoken to has refused to share information, instead choosing to make coin off it themselves. With our cartographer, we will compose the one and only complete map...He hated that he was already back to Daes Dae'mar but it was necessary. "...which I will be willing to part with in exchange for the supplies that will see Mistress Syndra's party doesn't come to its sticky end once again. Thom etched a look of interest on his face. "Surely you know how valuable a map such as that would be." Thom switched to an expression of wonder. "The number of people that would latch to your side, and pay you just for the information that only you could give would reimburse you twofold."
Quinn:
The cook let out a joyous laugh. "My Girl, you have placed a smile on this mans face. I cook each meal for everyone who dines at this Villa. I have been doing so since before Master Wakanga purchased it. It sounds like you are not from Chult. are you? May I ask where you are from?"
Thom:
"A Cartographer you say?" The man leaned forward in his seat. "And the map is mine when it is complete? That would be some offer. What do you think, Syndra?" Syndra leaned forward with annoyance in her eyes. "When we departed I had already provided your party with 50GP for your trips expenditures. Second off, why do you believe the Soulmonger would be in Wyrmheart mine and guarded by a Dragon? Do you have any reliable sources stating as such?" Closing her eyes Syndra breathed deeply before opening them again. "How would giv..." She cut off at the man's raised hand. "Now Syndra, this man comes offering us a great treasure. A map of the entire island? And a Cartographer to do it! What a treat that would be. But you must understand this Bard. What you ask is very costly. Even with a Map not many would venture more then is required.. And as Syndra mentioned. She already provided you with Gold. What did you do with the Gold she graciously provided you?"
Thom smiled, perhaps this would work after all. "I will offer an answer to both questions. As I believe Syndra deserves to know where her investment has gone. Thom placed his arms in his lap, a solemn expression on his face. "You did provide 50 gold pieces for our trip but we were under the impression the pack animals we requested would not be needed. Thom switched his expression to shock. "Now that we are to set out for the mines we find that not only are they needed but, they are extremely costly." As my estimates show a months supply of rations for a party of seven would be 120 gold. Water would be 42 gold. The barrels to hold the water would be 6 gold. Thom began holding up fingers as he listed off the costs of supplies needed for the party. Pack animals are going to be upwards of 50 gold, as we would need at least three to hold all the rations and water we need to make the trip. Thom quickly added up the total in his head double checking what he had written down on the parchment he had given earlier. We are looking at a total of 212 gold and that is a very rough estimate. There are many things which I have not included such as a months worth of feed for each pack animal, cooking supplies, water skin replacements, lamps, candles, or lanterns, oil for those lanterns, rope, tinderboxes, torches, tents..." Thom continued to list everything he knew would be important for the trip that others may not have thought of. "...if I were to leave off all of those we are looking at over 30 gold a person. Throw in the necessary equipment such as armor and weapons for the task you are asking us to undertake is nowhere near enough for the trip." Thom adopted an expression of worry mixed with appreciation. "Allow me to pick up the things we need whenever we set out for the jungles, with you picking up the tab and I will present myself before you with every new addition to our map the moment I arrive in port. This will allow you to see that your investment is well worth, and provide you with an opportunity to earn what I spend back, and then some."
FOR Quill:
The Cook and the Girl mingled as she ate. She explained to him about Baldur's Gate and how she was now here doing work her Uncle would normally do for her. How she had somehow found herself here and did not feel prepared for it yet she was going to try her best anyways. The Cook enjoyed her story and offered up another piece of cake for her to enjoy. When Quill changed the subject to Mistress Syndra and began to compliment her hoping it would cause the Cook to open up about the woman. However, the cook had nothing to share. Apparently the Woman was a friend of the Merchant Prince and rarely came to Chult. He had no information to offer up to her on the subject of Syndra. (PERSUASION CHECK: FAILED)
Though disappointing on learning little about Syndra, Quill did not give up. Instead she turned her focus on the other Merchant Princes and Nobles of the land. She asked for information about them. Asked for any detail she could think about. From the locations of the Villas to how they liked their drinks in the morning. Who they conversed with... anything which might be useful to Rand and the rest of the Group. At the hail of questions the Cook growled under his breath and gave a hard look at the girl. "Something tells me your up to something and I do.. not.. like.. it.. I think you should finish your meal and get back to your friend. Marcus will escort you when you finish eating. (PERSUASION CHECK: CRITICAL FAILURE!, ALL OTHER PREPARED QUESTIONS CANCELED OUT AND NO FUTURE QUESTIONING OF THE COOK PERMITTED.)" The Cook slammed his apron on the table and walked out of the room angrily. Marcus stood closely behind Quill and watched her closely as she finished her meal silently.
"I doubt Syndra has told you much about me. I am a man intrigued by knowledge, information, and lost lore." The man reaches into his pocket and pulls out a tattered, water damaged book. "This book was brought out of the Jungle 15 years ago. It's a heavily damaged Explorers Journal. Inside it describes various places within Chult but not enough to pinpoint any exact location. The unnamed Author, however does make many mentions of his only traveling companion. A shield guardian named Vorn controlled by an Amulet it is bound too." Opening the book, the man hands it over to Thom. "This Amulet is the one which controls Vorn. Now, I dont know where the Amulet is but I do know where Vorn can be found." The man pulled a piece of parchment out of his pocket and handed it to Thom. "I will provide you with a Pack Animal and a months Rations of Food and Water for your party and the Animal. In exchange you will find the Amulet, retrieve this Shield Guardian, and bring it back to me. You do this for me and I will let you keep the Pack Animal and provide you with one more month of Food and Water. Do we have a deal?"
Thom thought for a moment. Trying to contemplate the information he was receiving. Tracking down this amulet would be difficult. Perhaps if he took a look at this Vorn. "Very well, we have a deal. I will track down this amulet and bring you Vorn. We depart Kayla's in the early morning. If you would not mind having the supplies brought there. Thom didn't bother asking how long he had. If the man wasn't going to make mention of it then, he wasn't going to bring it up With a bow Thom headed towards the door new information in hand.
Thom meets Quill as he was being led out, only partly saddened to hear that her task wasn't successful. At least we got something out of it. Perhaps I will have to try for eyes and ears elsewhere thought Thom.
OOC: Assuming nothing happens on our way we head to the Inn for rest.
Damien watches as Thom and Quill leave the villia. He came with them in search of something to fill the madness in his mind. He was glad to say he had. Sadly though, it was replaced by the singular notion that follows.
"Everyone of them are idiots." He muttered to himself from his spot on the roof of Kaya's. He was massaging the bridge if his nose in agony over his discovery of how stupid everyone involved was. With a heavy sigh, he closes his eyes and rests.
And so our Party Members sleep.
The watchful Rogue fights the Wolf within ever seeking it's never ending thirst for blood.
The Bard somehow manages to convince a Merchant Prince to supply their expedition and he didn't even have to roll around in Dino Poo.
Quill's innocence continues to show as her inadequacy causes part of the Bards plans to fail.
The Druid finds himself one with nature and with a damsel in distress.
The Cleric follows the call of the Raven Queen and seeks guidance from an all seeing God.
A Dwarf drowns himself out in ale thus holding back his natural primal rage.
The Sorcerer prepares her spells for there is much more out there for her then a Dinosaur Boneyard.
As the party rests a snake flies in the night sky and a stone shares a message to another stone.
So Ends the First Night on Chult Island
The Next Day
The sun rises high over the Island of Chult as our Party members slowly rise from sleep. In front of Kayla's sits two Triceratops attached to a Wooden Wagon. Jammed pack with Barrels of Food and Water, the Merchant Prince Wakanga stands waiting to deliver as agreed upon. Syndra stands next to him in order to wish the Party off with high spirits. Xandala arrives shortly after Wakanga and waits patiently for the Druid from the previous night with a backpack at her feet. Her pet lazily rests on her right shoulder, basking in the early morning sun. Salida arrives moments later, a backpack and supplies strapped to her back and ready for a long journey.
Taking a moment to stretch out his body, Damien peers over the edge of his perch, on the roof to spot the many visitors that the groups had. Deciding to go greet them. he pulls up his red hood and goes down the side of Kaya's. However, he finds that his attempts to do so quietly, aren't as he'd like, with his body still waking up from its slumber. He is noticed by the various guests, but ignores most of them and walks over to Salida, "You're early. Not a bad thing, but still, glad to see you I guess." He glances at the chart and dinos that are with it, than at the two persons whom's vilia he had entered unnoticed. Not caring much he looks over to the lady with the pseudo-dragon, placing a hand on his hip and leaning slightly to get in full view of her, he asks, "So what are you here for?"