Thom grimaced at the sight of Syndra. It wasn't that he was exactly disgusted with her appearance, but rather his memories. She looks just like those unfortunate fools whos only future was going mad and rot... Thom shook his head once again to get the thought out of his head.
He eyed the man who was first to address the group. Damien, he had called himself. Thom let out a soft chuckle as he recalled that Damien meant Tamed in other languages, but this man looked anything but Tamed. More like a wolf on the hunt. Couldn't be a wolfbrother, could he? Don't think those type exist in these lands. Either way a dangerous man.
Looking at the others Thom cleared his throat then spoke up. First directing his attention to the child then, the rest of the people in the room. "Sit child, you already stated that you're going, no point in delaying now. Your uncle will just have to do without you." Thom ignored the attendants bringing in the weapons. He wasn't stupid enough to hand them over like some of the others may have been. It wasn't that he couldn't fight unarmed, he just preferred not to.
I sniffed out every rumor before coming to this place and I don't think to prepare any longer would get us anywhere. Let's get a move on, the earlier the better. If we get there early enough we can find an Inn or Tavern, at this port. Plenty of information passes through those places if you know who to talk to" Thom began juggling again as if to remind the room whom they were speaking with.
Damien accepts his more obvious blades from the attendants, reattaching them to his sides. He had all he needed or could get at the moment, no reason to delay things. However, it seemed not everyone was the same.
Listening to the other's talk, he slowly tuned them out and waited in silence, with arms crossed, but fingers on his blades. He was used to it.
Quill practically vibrated in place, nervous fingers tracing her pouches along her waist, indecisive as to whom she should obey. Go and Gather or stay or hope. Flicking her eyes downward she looked at her great Hurdy -Gurdy of a cat who merely blinked at her something unspoken flickering between them as he casually bathed his face, his tail twitching idly. Closing her eyes and taking a breath, she forced her curious mind teeming with questions and torn between fighting opinions, stopping herself into a silence that never lasted long. Releasing her breath as she opened her eyes, She took in the shrunken form of Syndra a feeling of pity and the flickering need to make wrong a right growing within her heart.
Shrugging, she laid a hand on top of her cat's head, as she declared softly, "The sky is purple to wise eyes. I will do what wiser heads than mine decree but I make no promises and swear no bond , only aid freely given little help though it may be. Go or stay, the decision is not mind to make, but let it be made quickly."
Lesnalore stared back at the emotionless mask as if the warnings were meant for her alone. Her magic had yet to fail her, but still... Looking down at her gloved fist as she it had been so long from the last time she had been working with a group. Could I count on them, and more importantly could they count on me? She watched as the woman undid her bindings, the final figure tested her resolve as she tired to hide her sudden understanding of why they were being sent out.
"I guess you have never been through a jungle before Jadyn? Its like a forest but much, much worse. I can tell you that much, horses would only slow us down in the end. But I believe she has everything we need lined up for us on the island, the gnome should hurry about her business quickly then. Time is of the most importance for our benefactor. Though I do agree a for sure way back would be a good thing to know. Otherwise I am ready to leave."
Living on the road had her back lightly, and almost anything she needed was a backpack away, even if others failed her, the pack would be a final life line to her, though on a barely inhabited island, it might only go so far.
Thom cessed his juggling and once again made the balls disappear somewhere in his clock. "The sorceress is correct whether you be in a jungle or forest, there always be danger in wait." A vision of a 9-foot beast popped into Thoms mind. A twisted mix between human and beast with tusks, fur, pig snout, and a mouth full of gnashing teeth. Its feet replaced with claws and its near-human hands the size of thick tree trunks. Trollocs were a hideous site, and he was glad nobody here has ever seen one, especially the child, she would probably have died in fright at the site of one. "Either way, we won't know how dangerous until we arrive."
Gairlik breathes a genuine sigh of relief and says to the other adventurers. "Well, I'm sure glad to have some here that seem know a few things about this sort of life. I have to admit, I fairly new at being an adventurer,"a bit of embarrassment shows on his face. When Syndra unveils the large chest, the dwarf nods in approval. "Rewards are nice and all, but what about some supplies to get us started? Some of us may not be ready to a trek through a hostile jungle."
"The dwarf is correct. If we dive into this jungle without preparing, we will fare no better than the previous expeditions."
Jadyn started doing some rough math again.
"We're going to need 60 pounds of water a day, and 14 pounds of food. We can forage, of course, but there will be days we don't find anything. Enough tents for 6 people, assuming at least 1 is always on watch. Torches or lamps for the humans. Even if we don't want to ride horses, at least one pack animal would greatly reduce our chances of dying of dehydration or exposure."
She turned to Syndra.
"I don't know if you can teleport a horse or a mule, but I'm confident you can afford one. Would you be so kind as to provide a portion of payment up front, so we can get provisions and an animal to carry them when we reach Nyanzaru?"
Dariel watches with interest as Syndra removes her mask, displaying right before their eyes the effects of the death curse on those who have been resurrected. The result is fascinating, the body seeming to have begun decaying even while still alive. He's never seen anything quite like it. The closest thing he can think of is when he thought he was dying himself, but he got better. He opens his mouth to ask if the woman will provide supplies since she said she would be funding the trip, but is beat to it by Gairlik.
"The same way we will get to the Port. When your mission is a success I will send you back here where it all started. Or if some of you choose to you may always hire a boat and travel home on a longer route. Perhaps some of you will decide to stay permanently? The option is truly yours after this curse has ended."
Returning her head covering and mask to its original position Syndra spoke to the young girl. "Just because someone is older does not mean they are the wisest. Even the young can exert surprising brain power given the opportunity. You may very well be the reason this party succeeds where others seemed to have failed. You are no slave. The decision will always be yours to make."As long as it is the right one, Syndra thought to herself.
Syndra listened with forced patience. At the request of pack animals and supplies Syndra shook her head with a look of hard times in her eyes. "You would be hard pressed to fit a hand cart through the Jungle. If the thick foliage of the rain-forests are not trouble enough then the swamp and muddy terrain will prevent any pack horse from making it far. I am afraid you will be very limited on what you may bring. I would suggest only taking what you can carry without the aid of pack animals and push carts." With a snap of a finger Syndra's attendants begin to hand out leather pouches to the individuals in the room. "This will help with mitigating some of your costs and travel within Chult."
OOC: All 7 Party members receive a leather pouch which holds 50GP. (Thats 50GP per party member). As "Quill" has her Uncles Merchant cart she can bring back supplies equal to 7 minor health potions. She can choose if she wants to hang on to them herself or hand them out. Those are her health potions after all.)
As four or was it five, frankly she had lost count voices piped up with permission for her to leave, Quill quickly bowed, hastily pocketed her coin and was off like a shot grabbing her dagger and sligning her bow over her shoulder from the guard as deftly ducked past them. This time, however, she went out alone, as Book with a great big stretch and purr once again resumed his place by the fire content to sleep in the warmth. He seemed very uninterested in those around him but a tell tale twitch of his tale warned any who would make the mistake of thinking him a house cat.
It didn't take Quill long to realize that Book wasn't following her, but being to busy running down the street she didn't mind much, fleet feet carefully carrying through the path she had trodden not above a few moments before. One hushed conversation in Dwavish and a hasty letter in gnomish later to her Uncle, and Quill found herself ever so hestitantly trying to decide what to bring and what to leave.
Her small frame and realitive youth limited what she could carry, so quickly decided to leave the glass vials, the large wooden box of calligraphy supplies, and instead grabbed the bare basics. Although she disliked using weapons as a general rule, the bow and the dagger would have to stay, as some beasts could not be avoided even by the best of rangers. A backpack, a bedroll, a length of sturdy rope, a change of clothes, a waterskin, a mess kit, ten days worth of rations mostly in the form of hardtack and other dried goods, and a tinder box were quickly stowed away. Given the state of the map, her cartography tools might come in handy but they were heavy too, yet she couldn't resist bringing it as the chance to chart unknown lands was too tempting to ignore. Hesitating she hovered in between the slim pouches of medicine and the healer's pack. The medicine wouldn't do much. They were designed to help with the pain associated with minor injuries, but who knew where or if she could find the herbs contained within them. The healer's pack would have to stay behind as it was more easily replaceable then the valuable medicinal herbs.
Strange how much of her life could be stored in a bag now that she was pressed to chose. Muttering a quick gnomish prayer to whatever diety would deign to listen for protection, she quickly said good bye to her companion before making her way back, her pace steady and quick, but otherwise unhurried. If the god's had any sense at all, they would leave without her, and she would be in the pleasant position of having to apologize. And the unpleasant position of having to explain yourself and why you failed a simple task and oh think of the plants just waiting to be studied...who knew what untold benefits such a treasure could provide.... As these thoughts flashed through her mind, a smile lit up her face and she found herself hurrying back a small skip in her step. A quick glance around the room revealed she hadn't seemingly missed much as they were still there, so she found herself a spot on the wall to watch and observe content at the moment to watch and observe. They hadn't left without the child it seemed, unfortunately. or was it fortunately.
Gairlik heft the coin purse before stowing it in his pack. "Well... Suppose it's better than nothing. I'll see what there is to be had over there before spending any of this." As the others discuss provisions and make their preparations, the dwarf returns to the free ale. No telling what they'll have to drink in the jungle.
Dariel holds up his bag of coins and nods his thanks to Syndra, then follows Quill out of the house, using the time while she deals with her cart to find a shop and get a set of slightly sturdier armor, trading his old set of leather armor to offset the cost by a few gold. He wants all the protection he can get before going into an unknown jungle to face unknown dangers. After grabbing a couple waterskins as well, he returns wearing the new armor.
Jadyn watched the gnome sprint out of the room, so quickly her cat missed it.
"I'll take this time to go get a few supplies as well. Be back soon."
That last bit could have been a lie. Jadyn didn't know the city well. But she had seen a store on her way here, and might get lucky. She wasn't looking for anything exotic... some extra rope, a spare waterskin, that sort of thing. Shouldn't be too hard to find.
Jadyn returned to Syndra's home and saw everyone else was already there. That little gnome is quick.
"Sorry to keep you all waiting. I got what I needed. Let's go fix death."
"I'll be right back, they do have the right idea though, more supplies are definitely needed."
Heading out she continued to mumble to herself extra supplies she will need to support herself and possibly others. Purchasing a set of bolts, another water-skin, and 10 days of ration. 65gp- 3.2gp=61.8gp. Passing on the healing potion for its cost, no need for any change in her current array she quickly headed back into the house, looking around as the others returned from their quick shopping.
"Alright boys and girls check your gear and get ready to head out! How can you not be excited to do this, besides the possibly dying part this is a dream come true!"
Thom waited until the other guests left before proceeding out of the hall and started down the street. Should be a few hours before the others are fully prepared for the trip. Just enough time to find some more information. Now to just find a Tavern... Thom headed by several different Taverns as he made is way through Baldur's Gate. The first, Blade and Stars, Thom left immediately after only glancing in the doorway as aside from a bar which seated a few patrons the common room was completely empty, as the clientele preferred to rent rooms rather than sit with the public.
The second he approached was near the eastern gate by the name of Elfsong Tavern, but after only a few quick words he rushed out the voice of an elf stuck in his head. That place has to be haunted! How did nobody else hear that voice!
Finally, after another twenty minutes of searching, he found himself staring at a sign only instead of having a description carved into it they had hammered actual objects to the sign. A weathered cloak hanging off one side and an oversized helmet balanced on the other. Surely they didn't actually go out and kill a titan? Letting out a small breath. This had better be worth my time. I have wasted an hour already. Pushing open the door he was immediately meet with the sound of conversation and music. Smiling to himself Thom continued to look around the room smiling to himself as his eyes scanned by Travelers and Merchants alike. This is definitely the right place!
Looking around the room Thom tried to spot the owner. "Innkeepers are always fat. Can't hide from me..."As the words left his mouth he smiled as a heavy-set man walked in front of him. "Good sir! You are in luck! I have finally arrived"Thom proceded to pull juggling balls out of his clock and began to juggle them as he continued on. "Thomodril Merrilin, greatest bard throughout all the land. For just a small fee and a meal, I will double your clientele and serenade your tavern with the music and tales no man has known before!" Thom pulled a dagger out of his cloak and added it to the balls mistakenly. "Perhaps, by the end of the night, you will find yourself richer the council of four, with a pretty las on your shoulder wherever you go." As he finished his quick speel he smiled continuing to juggle the balls and the dagger. Always good to remind them of riches and women.
Suddenly there was a roar from behind that made Thom jump, the balls scattering across the room and the dagger he had mistakenly added in flew through the air and thunked into the wood nearby. "Who the hell do you think you are! We haven't the room for a juggling nobody. Especially one stupid enough to mistake a drunk for the owner. Thom realizing his mistake tugged on his mustache for a moment.A thin innkeeper? Whoever heard of a thin innkeeper! "My apologies good sir. I just arrived in town and am quite used to something." Thom studied the man for a moment. "...different" The innkeeper studied Thom a moment then nodded to himself. Waving over a nearby worker he spoke "Newcomer Dawna, said something about serenading Geofry with sweet songs of love. Give him a seat and a meal."
Thom in the process of bending down to pick up his dropped juggling balls gave a start at the mention of serenading Geofry, but choose to ignore it. Not the time to be getting into a fight. After picking up his last ball he followed Dawna to a table near the back where the large man from earlier was sitting. As he sat down he pulled a gold coin out of his pocket and tossed it to Dawna. "Your boss mentioned that you would be helping this newcomer with supplies" As soon as the gold coin reached her hand it was out of Thoms sight. "He said no such thing Bard, and I will be keeping this coin. Consider it a stupid tax." The worker left and came back a few minutes later with Thom's meal a few minutes later. After giving him one more sour look she left him with his new friend Geoffrey to eat his meal in silence.
"Well I guess I have no choice but to shop myself" Thom mumbled to no one in particular as he left the tavern.
Having been given some time to gather whatever extra supplies we may need, Damien went out to seek some more exotic items. Walking down the side streets of Baldur's Gate, he finds the various signs that lead him to a small shop in the slums. Entering the dark interior of the store, he spots an old man with cloth wrapped over his forehead who gives him a look over.
Holding up 4 fingers, Damien speaks out, "Taking a long drive down the midnight river. Need anything to hold down the fort. As well as something for taking down the mistress." Damien glares into the man, trying to sense evil in him, this in turn seems to scare the man who, out of no where, offers a massive discount that shocks even Damien. With this he gathers a few potions of usefulness to his future prospects. After that, he makes his way back to the estate and awaits for the start of this journey.
Syndra waited with reserved patience until every last member of the group returned. It took some much longer then she considered reasonable. Many of them should have been gone for no more then just a few minutes. She gave Thom a heated glance as he entered the door making him the last to return. As if the entry of Thom was the signal her attendants began clearing the center of the room. They stacked boxes and chairs along the walls and tables until what remained was one finely decorated Rug. Satisfied with their work, Syndra waved her hand and all but two attendants vacated the room. "I will need everyone to gather in a circle around the carpet please. That's it.. together now." Content with the circle the woman lifted her arms and the two remaining Attendants helped her to her feet. Guiding Syndra to the center of the carpet her attendants lightly released their grip and took their own places within the circle. Reaching into her pocket Syndra removed a scroll and unraveled it.
Examining the scroll intently before returning it to her pocket and replacing it with chalk. Moving to her knees Syndra's boney hands traced a 10 foot wide circle around the party. Completing the circle she returned the chalk and exchanged it for a bottle of ink. Removing the ink topper she dips the end of a feather into the bottle and commences to draw a variety of symbols within the circle. After a few minutes Syndra stepped back to admire her work. Taking her own place among those gathered she spoke once more. "For those who are not aware this is known as a teleportation circle. It is linked to a similar one at Port Nyanzaru which might I add was very costly."
"This portal will only remain open for 6 seconds. So.. I need everyone to get very very close. Ensure every bit of you is within this circle. It would be a waste if I had to return and retrieve some of you who were to foolish to follow directions."
Syndra waited until she was sure everyone followed her directions perfectly. Closing her eyes and breathing deeply she slapped her hands together. The inscribed circle begins to shimmer under the parties feet before shooting to the ceiling. When the light fades away so to does an entire room full of individuals.
Syndra wasn't lying when she said it would take seconds. In the blink of an eye a group of 10 individuals and a cat leaped from a merchants quarters in Baldur's Gate to the sprawling harbor of Port Nyanzaru 2,000 miles away. After ensuring everyone was on their feet and accounted for Syndra gave a satisfied smile. "Welcome to Port Nyanzaru"
A blazing sun sat high above the tropical city as familiar sounds and sights passed by each party members vision. The sound of creaking ropes, slapping waves, heavy barrels rolling across cobblestones. All of this mingled with voices shouting and cursing in an unfamiliar language filled with clicks, inhalations, and singsongy words that make it sound almost musical. The aroma of unfamiliar spices and tropical mixes with the wharf side smells of fish, tar, and canvas pass under the groups noses. Beyond all that, Port Nyanzaru is an explosion of color. Buildings are painted in bright shades of blue, green, orange, and salmon pink, or their walls are adorned with murals portraying giant reptiles and mythical heroes. Every building sports baskets and clay urns of colorful flowers or is draped in leafy, flowering vines. Minstrels in bright clothing adorned with feathers and shells perform on street corners. Multicolored pennants and sun awnings flutter atop the city walls. A crowd of children dressed in feathered hats and capes races past you, squealing in delighted terror as a street performer costumed as a big-toothed lizard stomps and roars behind them. The whole city seems to be bustling, sweating, laughing, swearing, and singing.
Syndra's eyes shined brightly as her attendants rushed around her to support Syndra's wavering feet. A colorful two wheeled cart pulled by a dark skinned triceratops passed on the groups left. It's handler, a short fellow bared to the waist, stared at the newcomers curiously. "If your not use to it teleporting can drain your body of energy. Before setting out on your search I would recommend taking time to explore the city. Secure rooms as soon as possible. Space is limited here and if your not quick you may end up sleeping in a forest your not prepared for. If your looking for a lively atmosphere then head to the Thundering Lizard. If it is sleep you want then Kaya's House is the inn for you. Both are located near the Red Bazaar in the Market Ward. Just follow the Road to the South West and you will come right to it. If you get lost feel free to ask the locals. They know this place better than most anyone." Removing her hood she wrapped a wet cloth around her scalp which had been given to her by her attendant. "It is known to get extremely hot here. Ensure you have plenty of water before you make any kind of journey into the forest. We wouldn't want any of you to fall victim to dehydration before your mission is complete. I will be staying at the villa of the Merchant Prince Wakanga. If you need to reach me, considering the Soulmonger hasn't defeat me first, you will be able to find me there."
Teleporting was definitely not something Thom enjoyed or hoped to do anytime soon. Waygates were a much better form of travel, less strain on the body. Thom thought to himself as he tried to clear his mind and catch his bearings. "I don't know what you lot mean to do but I am going to take the man for his word, and see if I can gather some information out of this Thundering Lizard." Thom hitched his bag on his shoulder as he started heading down the road leading southwest. Tossing a gold coin over his shoulder at nobody, in particular, Thom shouted back. "and someone see about claiming us a room! Or would you prefer to start our journey in the forest early!"
Thom picked up his pace never once looking over his shoulder to see if anyone followed. His voice trailing back to the others as he shouted at the people all along his path! "If you are looking for fresh entertainment come and see me at the Thu..." As his voice trailed away from the others his juggling balls could be seen reflecting off the midday sun.
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Thom grimaced at the sight of Syndra. It wasn't that he was exactly disgusted with her appearance, but rather his memories. She looks just like those unfortunate fools whos only future was going mad and rot... Thom shook his head once again to get the thought out of his head.
He eyed the man who was first to address the group. Damien, he had called himself. Thom let out a soft chuckle as he recalled that Damien meant Tamed in other languages, but this man looked anything but Tamed. More like a wolf on the hunt. Couldn't be a wolfbrother, could he? Don't think those type exist in these lands. Either way a dangerous man.
Looking at the others Thom cleared his throat then spoke up. First directing his attention to the child then, the rest of the people in the room. "Sit child, you already stated that you're going, no point in delaying now. Your uncle will just have to do without you." Thom ignored the attendants bringing in the weapons. He wasn't stupid enough to hand them over like some of the others may have been. It wasn't that he couldn't fight unarmed, he just preferred not to.
I sniffed out every rumor before coming to this place and I don't think to prepare any longer would get us anywhere. Let's get a move on, the earlier the better. If we get there early enough we can find an Inn or Tavern, at this port. Plenty of information passes through those places if you know who to talk to" Thom began juggling again as if to remind the room whom they were speaking with.
Damien accepts his more obvious blades from the attendants, reattaching them to his sides. He had all he needed or could get at the moment, no reason to delay things. However, it seemed not everyone was the same.
Listening to the other's talk, he slowly tuned them out and waited in silence, with arms crossed, but fingers on his blades. He was used to it.
Quill practically vibrated in place, nervous fingers tracing her pouches along her waist, indecisive as to whom she should obey. Go and Gather or stay or hope. Flicking her eyes downward she looked at her great Hurdy -Gurdy of a cat who merely blinked at her something unspoken flickering between them as he casually bathed his face, his tail twitching idly. Closing her eyes and taking a breath, she forced her curious mind teeming with questions and torn between fighting opinions, stopping herself into a silence that never lasted long. Releasing her breath as she opened her eyes, She took in the shrunken form of Syndra a feeling of pity and the flickering need to make wrong a right growing within her heart.
Shrugging, she laid a hand on top of her cat's head, as she declared softly, "The sky is purple to wise eyes. I will do what wiser heads than mine decree but I make no promises and swear no bond , only aid freely given little help though it may be. Go or stay, the decision is not mind to make, but let it be made quickly."
Lesnalore stared back at the emotionless mask as if the warnings were meant for her alone. Her magic had yet to fail her, but still... Looking down at her gloved fist as she it had been so long from the last time she had been working with a group. Could I count on them, and more importantly could they count on me? She watched as the woman undid her bindings, the final figure tested her resolve as she tired to hide her sudden understanding of why they were being sent out.
"I guess you have never been through a jungle before Jadyn? Its like a forest but much, much worse. I can tell you that much, horses would only slow us down in the end. But I believe she has everything we need lined up for us on the island, the gnome should hurry about her business quickly then. Time is of the most importance for our benefactor. Though I do agree a for sure way back would be a good thing to know. Otherwise I am ready to leave."
Living on the road had her back lightly, and almost anything she needed was a backpack away, even if others failed her, the pack would be a final life line to her, though on a barely inhabited island, it might only go so far.
Thom cessed his juggling and once again made the balls disappear somewhere in his clock. "The sorceress is correct whether you be in a jungle or forest, there always be danger in wait." A vision of a 9-foot beast popped into Thoms mind. A twisted mix between human and beast with tusks, fur, pig snout, and a mouth full of gnashing teeth. Its feet replaced with claws and its near-human hands the size of thick tree trunks. Trollocs were a hideous site, and he was glad nobody here has ever seen one, especially the child, she would probably have died in fright at the site of one. "Either way, we won't know how dangerous until we arrive."
Gairlik breathes a genuine sigh of relief and says to the other adventurers. "Well, I'm sure glad to have some here that seem know a few things about this sort of life. I have to admit, I fairly new at being an adventurer," a bit of embarrassment shows on his face. When Syndra unveils the large chest, the dwarf nods in approval. "Rewards are nice and all, but what about some supplies to get us started? Some of us may not be ready to a trek through a hostile jungle."
"The dwarf is correct. If we dive into this jungle without preparing, we will fare no better than the previous expeditions."
Jadyn started doing some rough math again.
"We're going to need 60 pounds of water a day, and 14 pounds of food. We can forage, of course, but there will be days we don't find anything. Enough tents for 6 people, assuming at least 1 is always on watch. Torches or lamps for the humans. Even if we don't want to ride horses, at least one pack animal would greatly reduce our chances of dying of dehydration or exposure."
She turned to Syndra.
"I don't know if you can teleport a horse or a mule, but I'm confident you can afford one. Would you be so kind as to provide a portion of payment up front, so we can get provisions and an animal to carry them when we reach Nyanzaru?"
Dariel watches with interest as Syndra removes her mask, displaying right before their eyes the effects of the death curse on those who have been resurrected. The result is fascinating, the body seeming to have begun decaying even while still alive. He's never seen anything quite like it. The closest thing he can think of is when he thought he was dying himself, but he got better. He opens his mouth to ask if the woman will provide supplies since she said she would be funding the trip, but is beat to it by Gairlik.
As four or was it five, frankly she had lost count voices piped up with permission for her to leave, Quill quickly bowed, hastily pocketed her coin and was off like a shot grabbing her dagger and sligning her bow over her shoulder from the guard as deftly ducked past them. This time, however, she went out alone, as Book with a great big stretch and purr once again resumed his place by the fire content to sleep in the warmth. He seemed very uninterested in those around him but a tell tale twitch of his tale warned any who would make the mistake of thinking him a house cat.
It didn't take Quill long to realize that Book wasn't following her, but being to busy running down the street she didn't mind much, fleet feet carefully carrying through the path she had trodden not above a few moments before. One hushed conversation in Dwavish and a hasty letter in gnomish later to her Uncle, and Quill found herself ever so hestitantly trying to decide what to bring and what to leave.
Her small frame and realitive youth limited what she could carry, so quickly decided to leave the glass vials, the large wooden box of calligraphy supplies, and instead grabbed the bare basics. Although she disliked using weapons as a general rule, the bow and the dagger would have to stay, as some beasts could not be avoided even by the best of rangers. A backpack, a bedroll, a length of sturdy rope, a change of clothes, a waterskin, a mess kit, ten days worth of rations mostly in the form of hardtack and other dried goods, and a tinder box were quickly stowed away. Given the state of the map, her cartography tools might come in handy but they were heavy too, yet she couldn't resist bringing it as the chance to chart unknown lands was too tempting to ignore. Hesitating she hovered in between the slim pouches of medicine and the healer's pack. The medicine wouldn't do much. They were designed to help with the pain associated with minor injuries, but who knew where or if she could find the herbs contained within them. The healer's pack would have to stay behind as it was more easily replaceable then the valuable medicinal herbs.
Strange how much of her life could be stored in a bag now that she was pressed to chose. Muttering a quick gnomish prayer to whatever diety would deign to listen for protection, she quickly said good bye to her companion before making her way back, her pace steady and quick, but otherwise unhurried. If the god's had any sense at all, they would leave without her, and she would be in the pleasant position of having to apologize. And the unpleasant position of having to explain yourself and why you failed a simple task and oh think of the plants just waiting to be studied...who knew what untold benefits such a treasure could provide.... As these thoughts flashed through her mind, a smile lit up her face and she found herself hurrying back a small skip in her step. A quick glance around the room revealed she hadn't seemingly missed much as they were still there, so she found herself a spot on the wall to watch and observe content at the moment to watch and observe. They hadn't left without the child it seemed, unfortunately. or was it fortunately.
OOC: Ready to continue
Gairlik heft the coin purse before stowing it in his pack. "Well... Suppose it's better than nothing. I'll see what there is to be had over there before spending any of this." As the others discuss provisions and make their preparations, the dwarf returns to the free ale. No telling what they'll have to drink in the jungle.
(OOC: Ready to continue)
Dariel holds up his bag of coins and nods his thanks to Syndra, then follows Quill out of the house, using the time while she deals with her cart to find a shop and get a set of slightly sturdier armor, trading his old set of leather armor to offset the cost by a few gold. He wants all the protection he can get before going into an unknown jungle to face unknown dangers. After grabbing a couple waterskins as well, he returns wearing the new armor.
(OOC: Ready to continue)
Jadyn watched the gnome sprint out of the room, so quickly her cat missed it.
"I'll take this time to go get a few supplies as well. Be back soon."
That last bit could have been a lie. Jadyn didn't know the city well. But she had seen a store on her way here, and might get lucky. She wasn't looking for anything exotic... some extra rope, a spare waterskin, that sort of thing. Shouldn't be too hard to find.
Jadyn returned to Syndra's home and saw everyone else was already there. That little gnome is quick.
"Sorry to keep you all waiting. I got what I needed. Let's go fix death."
OOC: Ready to continue
"I'll be right back, they do have the right idea though, more supplies are definitely needed."
Heading out she continued to mumble to herself extra supplies she will need to support herself and possibly others. Purchasing a set of bolts, another water-skin, and 10 days of ration. 65gp- 3.2gp=61.8gp. Passing on the healing potion for its cost, no need for any change in her current array she quickly headed back into the house, looking around as the others returned from their quick shopping.
"Alright boys and girls check your gear and get ready to head out! How can you not be excited to do this, besides the possibly dying part this is a dream come true!"
OOC: Ready to go.
Thom waited until the other guests left before proceeding out of the hall and started down the street. Should be a few hours before the others are fully prepared for the trip. Just enough time to find some more information. Now to just find a Tavern... Thom headed by several different Taverns as he made is way through Baldur's Gate. The first, Blade and Stars, Thom left immediately after only glancing in the doorway as aside from a bar which seated a few patrons the common room was completely empty, as the clientele preferred to rent rooms rather than sit with the public.
The second he approached was near the eastern gate by the name of Elfsong Tavern, but after only a few quick words he rushed out the voice of an elf stuck in his head. That place has to be haunted! How did nobody else hear that voice!
Finally, after another twenty minutes of searching, he found himself staring at a sign only instead of having a description carved into it they had hammered actual objects to the sign. A weathered cloak hanging off one side and an oversized helmet balanced on the other. Surely they didn't actually go out and kill a titan? Letting out a small breath. This had better be worth my time. I have wasted an hour already. Pushing open the door he was immediately meet with the sound of conversation and music. Smiling to himself Thom continued to look around the room smiling to himself as his eyes scanned by Travelers and Merchants alike. This is definitely the right place!
Looking around the room Thom tried to spot the owner. "Innkeepers are always fat. Can't hide from me..." As the words left his mouth he smiled as a heavy-set man walked in front of him. "Good sir! You are in luck! I have finally arrived" Thom proceded to pull juggling balls out of his clock and began to juggle them as he continued on. "Thomodril Merrilin, greatest bard throughout all the land. For just a small fee and a meal, I will double your clientele and serenade your tavern with the music and tales no man has known before!" Thom pulled a dagger out of his cloak and added it to the balls mistakenly. "Perhaps, by the end of the night, you will find yourself richer the council of four, with a pretty las on your shoulder wherever you go." As he finished his quick speel he smiled continuing to juggle the balls and the dagger. Always good to remind them of riches and women.
Suddenly there was a roar from behind that made Thom jump, the balls scattering across the room and the dagger he had mistakenly added in flew through the air and thunked into the wood nearby. "Who the hell do you think you are! We haven't the room for a juggling nobody. Especially one stupid enough to mistake a drunk for the owner. Thom realizing his mistake tugged on his mustache for a moment. A thin innkeeper? Whoever heard of a thin innkeeper! "My apologies good sir. I just arrived in town and am quite used to something." Thom studied the man for a moment. "...different" The innkeeper studied Thom a moment then nodded to himself. Waving over a nearby worker he spoke "Newcomer Dawna, said something about serenading Geofry with sweet songs of love. Give him a seat and a meal."
Thom in the process of bending down to pick up his dropped juggling balls gave a start at the mention of serenading Geofry, but choose to ignore it. Not the time to be getting into a fight. After picking up his last ball he followed Dawna to a table near the back where the large man from earlier was sitting. As he sat down he pulled a gold coin out of his pocket and tossed it to Dawna. "Your boss mentioned that you would be helping this newcomer with supplies" As soon as the gold coin reached her hand it was out of Thoms sight. "He said no such thing Bard, and I will be keeping this coin. Consider it a stupid tax." The worker left and came back a few minutes later with Thom's meal a few minutes later. After giving him one more sour look she left him with his new friend Geoffrey to eat his meal in silence.
"Well I guess I have no choice but to shop myself" Thom mumbled to no one in particular as he left the tavern.
(OOC: Ready)
Having been given some time to gather whatever extra supplies we may need, Damien went out to seek some more exotic items. Walking down the side streets of Baldur's Gate, he finds the various signs that lead him to a small shop in the slums. Entering the dark interior of the store, he spots an old man with cloth wrapped over his forehead who gives him a look over.
Holding up 4 fingers, Damien speaks out, "Taking a long drive down the midnight river. Need anything to hold down the fort. As well as something for taking down the mistress." Damien glares into the man, trying to sense evil in him, this in turn seems to scare the man who, out of no where, offers a massive discount that shocks even Damien. With this he gathers a few potions of usefulness to his future prospects. After that, he makes his way back to the estate and awaits for the start of this journey.
(OOC: Ready)
Syndra waited with reserved patience until every last member of the group returned. It took some much longer then she considered reasonable. Many of them should have been gone for no more then just a few minutes. She gave Thom a heated glance as he entered the door making him the last to return. As if the entry of Thom was the signal her attendants began clearing the center of the room. They stacked boxes and chairs along the walls and tables until what remained was one finely decorated Rug. Satisfied with their work, Syndra waved her hand and all but two attendants vacated the room. "I will need everyone to gather in a circle around the carpet please. That's it.. together now." Content with the circle the woman lifted her arms and the two remaining Attendants helped her to her feet. Guiding Syndra to the center of the carpet her attendants lightly released their grip and took their own places within the circle. Reaching into her pocket Syndra removed a scroll and unraveled it.
Examining the scroll intently before returning it to her pocket and replacing it with chalk. Moving to her knees Syndra's boney hands traced a 10 foot wide circle around the party. Completing the circle she returned the chalk and exchanged it for a bottle of ink. Removing the ink topper she dips the end of a feather into the bottle and commences to draw a variety of symbols within the circle. After a few minutes Syndra stepped back to admire her work. Taking her own place among those gathered she spoke once more. "For those who are not aware this is known as a teleportation circle. It is linked to a similar one at Port Nyanzaru which might I add was very costly."
"This portal will only remain open for 6 seconds. So.. I need everyone to get very very close. Ensure every bit of you is within this circle. It would be a waste if I had to return and retrieve some of you who were to foolish to follow directions."
Syndra waited until she was sure everyone followed her directions perfectly. Closing her eyes and breathing deeply she slapped her hands together. The inscribed circle begins to shimmer under the parties feet before shooting to the ceiling. When the light fades away so to does an entire room full of individuals.
Ends Part 1: Prologue
Port Nyanzaru
Syndra wasn't lying when she said it would take seconds. In the blink of an eye a group of 10 individuals and a cat leaped from a merchants quarters in Baldur's Gate to the sprawling harbor of Port Nyanzaru 2,000 miles away. After ensuring everyone was on their feet and accounted for Syndra gave a satisfied smile. "Welcome to Port Nyanzaru"
A blazing sun sat high above the tropical city as familiar sounds and sights passed by each party members vision. The sound of creaking ropes, slapping waves, heavy barrels rolling across cobblestones. All of this mingled with voices shouting and cursing in an unfamiliar language filled with clicks, inhalations, and singsongy words that make it sound almost musical. The aroma of unfamiliar spices and tropical mixes with the wharf side smells of fish, tar, and canvas pass under the groups noses. Beyond all that, Port Nyanzaru is an explosion of color. Buildings are painted in bright shades of blue, green, orange, and salmon pink, or their walls are adorned with murals portraying giant reptiles and mythical heroes. Every building sports baskets and clay urns of colorful flowers or is draped in leafy, flowering vines. Minstrels in bright clothing adorned with feathers and shells perform on street corners. Multicolored pennants and sun awnings flutter atop the city walls. A crowd of children dressed in feathered hats and capes races past you, squealing in delighted terror as a street performer costumed as a big-toothed lizard stomps and roars behind them. The whole city seems to be bustling, sweating, laughing, swearing, and singing.
Syndra's eyes shined brightly as her attendants rushed around her to support Syndra's wavering feet. A colorful two wheeled cart pulled by a dark skinned triceratops passed on the groups left. It's handler, a short fellow bared to the waist, stared at the newcomers curiously. "If your not use to it teleporting can drain your body of energy. Before setting out on your search I would recommend taking time to explore the city. Secure rooms as soon as possible. Space is limited here and if your not quick you may end up sleeping in a forest your not prepared for. If your looking for a lively atmosphere then head to the Thundering Lizard. If it is sleep you want then Kaya's House is the inn for you. Both are located near the Red Bazaar in the Market Ward. Just follow the Road to the South West and you will come right to it. If you get lost feel free to ask the locals. They know this place better than most anyone." Removing her hood she wrapped a wet cloth around her scalp which had been given to her by her attendant. "It is known to get extremely hot here. Ensure you have plenty of water before you make any kind of journey into the forest. We wouldn't want any of you to fall victim to dehydration before your mission is complete. I will be staying at the villa of the Merchant Prince Wakanga. If you need to reach me, considering the Soulmonger hasn't defeat me first, you will be able to find me there."
Teleporting was definitely not something Thom enjoyed or hoped to do anytime soon. Waygates were a much better form of travel, less strain on the body. Thom thought to himself as he tried to clear his mind and catch his bearings. "I don't know what you lot mean to do but I am going to take the man for his word, and see if I can gather some information out of this Thundering Lizard." Thom hitched his bag on his shoulder as he started heading down the road leading southwest. Tossing a gold coin over his shoulder at nobody, in particular, Thom shouted back. "and someone see about claiming us a room! Or would you prefer to start our journey in the forest early!"
Thom picked up his pace never once looking over his shoulder to see if anyone followed. His voice trailing back to the others as he shouted at the people all along his path! "If you are looking for fresh entertainment come and see me at the Thu..." As his voice trailed away from the others his juggling balls could be seen reflecting off the midday sun.