You sense no recognition in her expression though the title still seems to bear weight. To looks you both over as if to get a better read of you. Anyone making a perception check DC 16 or with passive higher notices the spoiler. 

 I see. Unfortunately sir, the resident of the tower does not see guests on such short notice. We would be happy to tell him you stopped by seeking an audience. If he has the time he may request you're return at a later date.

While the second glances weren't unexpected, it did surprise him to some small degree that the guards weren't a touch more hostile from his presence alone. A more prideful hobgoblin might've even been annoyed at the lack of due respect in far more caution, if not hostility. Narz, however, simply thanked the gods and his past self for so deeply ingraining the art of 'acting as if one belonged' over the long winter months in Waterdeep. Yet nevertheless, he kept his hands clasped loosely before his abdomen as to avoid inviting further concern, and let Zack handle most of the greetings.

He'd nod where it seem appropriate, and only barely kept from grimacing at the implications of needing to explain himself at some point. Yet there was undeniable wisdom to Zack's words, and upon even minor reflection on the hobgoblin's part, Narz eventually side-eyed the man with an approving looking, before settling his gaze again upon the guards.

Perception: 17.(17)

Insight: 10.(20)
(One of the few times he doesn't have his familiar with him to keep an eye on things.)

(OOC: Adding more in separate post)

... But then something appears to catch his eye for only a second, and after a moment's consideration, he leaned in and whispered to Zack about the discovery, shielding his mouth for good measure. He then straightened up and addressed the guards, "Well, I for one must say that's a shame. Truth be told I also have a letter of recommendation from the House of *insert Artys' House name, as player cannot find it* from a contact they have s'posedly residing in the tower as well. Unfortunately, as the representative of that house was called back during our journey in a hurry, they weren't all too clear on who to direct it to, I will, uh.. confess. But if you can ask around next chance you get, that'a be appreciated as well." 

Let me see that. The guard captain says. She inspects the letter closely as does her companions. Several more guards approach at this time, keeping their distance but armed with ranged weapons. Well, this certainly appears to be genuine, and it certainly changes things. The guard Captain draws her sword. Sir Fair, I believe you are being deceived. I would ask your aid in apprehending this creature. She points the tip of her sword towards Narz. You appear to be who you say you are Sir Fair. But do you know your companion is a member of the Zhentarim? Who comes with a letter of recommendation from a house whose properties were destroyed and most if its members slain? I'm not sure what your plan here was Zhent but you can divulge it to us in the tower dungeon. Don't make this harder than it need be.

 Zack listened as Narz spoke, curious how he would handle his particular side of the story. He was getting ready to apologize and offer to come on the morrow, at a more convenient time. Initially he smiled when she said it was genuine - Nodding with his eyes closed, and arms against his hips, going  Hmm Hmm. He was fully expecting the next words to be "Come on in, we can make an exception in this case" but his eyes shot open at the first sentence, one brow furrowing and the other lifting at being told he was being deceived. 

Then his face turned to one of 'Oh jeez, here we go..' Shaking his head, he finally said Mmm... I find that hard to believe Ma'am. No offense. Perhaps you have some report, or information that I lack. But Narz here... as I just told you, assisted myself, and my now-wife, as well as Rollo Ragnarson in fighting off a Zhent plot.  he breifly considered divulging that it was the Duchess who had been kidnapped but... decided it best not to weaken her leverage by admitting to her capture... We saved a high ranking member of the Daggerford Aristocracy from a demons plot to take it over.  he said, leaving out that it was the Zhentarim who helped them break into the castle.

He was given honors for his duty, and in that selfsame event I was promoted to my current rank. Since then Narz has gone on to fight the giants while I assumed my duties, both as Master at Arms, and as a Husband. I've recieved reports that he helped Goldenfields against a giant attack, as well as several smaller locations - though I don't yet know all the details beyond Goldenfields as I left for my current objective before further reports came in.

From what I know of him in person, and by word of mouth, the one thing I'm sure of is that there is no way that Narz here lacks Honor. Zack said with full conviction. His eyes glowing that faint, faint blue color of the sky as they always did. 

I'm afraid I can't allow a friend to be taken in, and imprisoned, questioned, and who knows what else... he said, a momentary flashback memory of his own time in such conditions... just barely manifesting on his visage... On such a flimsy accusation.

Persuasion if needed: 17

Regardless of the outcome, Zack hadn't yet summoned his sword to his hand, but at this point, he was ready to fight if need be..

How about you tell us where you got your information, and we can, y'know.... compare notes.

Theres a few more flashed of light from the tower and the guard captain doesn't respond until they finish. She nods as if understanding some new information. Yes, we heard of the incident in Daggerford. This is the Hobgoblin involved then? That certainly confuses things. The Hob, a tortle, and a young woman were reported having joined the Zhentarim in Calling Horns. The name Tamlin Zoar ring a bell Narz? Do you deny this to be true?

Seeing no problem with passing the note along, Narz certainly obliges the woman before once again assuming a non-defensive posture. At least... as non-defensive as any hobgoblin can put forth without bringing absolute shame to both his people and gods. When the guard draws steel however his eyes immediately narrow in open suspicion at first, then further still in a glare.

Fortunately before the hobgoblin can say something immediately that might only incidentally increase hostilities, Zack speaking up gives him pause enough to look warily at the man, and then slightly relax his stance as it became more apparent the swordsman's aim meant speaking more favorably on his behalf. So, he took to observing the Captain and her crew instead, and remain in mind, if not in physical action, on guard for any signs of an imminent attack or growing sense that Zack's request were falling on deaf ears.

But they never did. In fact, Narz found himself taken aback for second at mention of Callinghorn before sighing and shaking his head a little.  He then straightens out his posture posture, said in a more controlled manner, "We did -speak- with a Zoar, yes. And in exchange for pointing us towards someone that could give us intel on various topics to the giant threat, another compatriot of ours -- the young woman -- healed those injured by an upsurge of troll attacks, before we subsequently went hunting for the source. of the uptick" He leans forward to a bit, capitalizing on whatever height he might've had on the woman even if it mean letting a still extend poke a bit more into his chest or throat(if she got that close). "And we dealt with it. Unlike whatever agents of yours was in town and couldn't clearly be bothered to help the good people there, let alone get their facts straight 'fore running off at the mouth." He states frankly before straightening out once more. 

"Zoar, upon our return to the Horns, illuminated us on several things to improve the odds of our success in our overall mission, before we ultimately parted ways. But rest assured that at no point during the journey up here did we ever join the Zhentarim. Spoke with a member perhaps, if the word of your informant in the Horns can even be trusted at this point, but... never joined." He stated frankly. " Now, if your superior up top playing the game of sending with those lights are quite done with that, and our willing to speak more civilly on matters, I and hopefully Sir Fair here can maybe be accommodating." He said and that's when he clasped a hand on Zack's shoulder or tried to in a show of comradery.

"Ain't that right? Least till our other compatriot finds her way here." He adds, turning back to the Captain again. "I for one certainly would like to hear more about what happened to Sir Artys house. He'd been a traveling compatriot of mines for a time and had mentioned needing to turn back during our journey up this way to deal with problems at home. But this is the first I've heard in detail that things had been so bad, and that the Zhentarim seem under suspicion for it no less!" He stated pointedly.

"But if you and yours are still insistent on detaining me while bearing no clear markers of having authority beyond the bounds of this tower of yours, or as one might better put it, being a member of the watch or greater authority presiding over the city as a whole, then you leave us with little choice except to defend ourselves. As at that point, the situation starts to stink more and more of some weird retaliation of the fiend that made trouble up back in Daggerford."

(OOC: Above game if possible, I'd like to burn a use of Fey Gift(Hospitality) to any next check from Zack, granting advantage and 4(5) Temp HP. And if Narz also needs to roll persuasion as well, see spoiler. And he will use Fortune of the many to add +1 to the check if a fail)

No more flashes of light come from the tower and the guard Captain sighs and relaxes. It seems you will have your wish. I expect they have sent for the Moonlord. She will help clarify this situation. A zone of truth may not be off the table. Since you seem willing, you might indeed be expected to provide answers under such magic. You are correct that we may not be able to legally detain you, but I would be careful trusting the guard in this city, if you truly aren't friends of the Zhent that is.

A few moments pass before several guards exit the tower, lead by another Human wearing similar plated armor. She weilds a brilliant blade decorated with gold and silver which rests in its sheathe and sports a head of flowing golden locks. The guards you had been dealing with bow as she approaches. You may Stand down Captain. I've been briefed on the situation. I shall take it from here. 

Yes ma'am, of course ma'am. The Captain stands aside and the new arrival approaches. I am Moonlord Davianna Yalrannis. Master of this tower and charged with its defense. I apologize for rough greeting but I assure you, our information is correct. My agent within the elder Zoars inn tells me you agreed to, what was it, a "provisional" partnership? Do you continue to deny that is true? Shall I fetch a wizard to ensure the truth? I'll let you know now, no matter how provisional you might have intended that partnerships to be, we cannot abide agents of the Blackhand attempting to gain entry to this tower. We may not be able to detain you but you will find no aid here unless you can prove you've no ties with the Zhents 

She turns to Zack and bows slightly. You I know have no ties. My agents in Daggerford told me of the new Captain of the Guard and put together some pieces of rumors we heard of the seven snakes finding an untimely end. I assume that was your work? If so, good job. The world is better off. But back to the matter at hand. Your companion here stands accused of consorting with members of the Blackhand. Do you continue to deny this?

Despite knowing the gesture might at best be ignored, Narz nonetheless gave his own if albeit slighter head bow in deferrence to the Moonlord even before she introduced herself, having judged both by the Captain's response and her own resplendent gear that she held at least some position of actual import. But while he tried to continue holding fast to a respectful if though neutral expression throughout her opening remarks and questioning, anyone perceptive enough could see the slight tightening of jaw and the flicker of a narrowing of eyes on certain points being emphasized.

When at last there seemed an opportunity to speak, Narz risked closing his eyes and taking a deep breath through the nose as if steadying himself, then said to her, "It seems your agent is due an apology to some extent. Though I doubt they'd care, if you could send my regards to them all the same, that would be appreciate. And if -you- would prefer to have a wizard present as well, I, for one, will not deny your acquisition of further assurances. But I will say it is... unnecessary."

He then looks to Zack. "I had hoped to speak to you privately on more matters of Calling Horns, as one of the things illuminated there pertained to you and Lady Nadia in a positive light, among a few other things. Well founded paranoia it seems sealed my lips; but nevertheless, even if the end results would've been the same, I...." He trails off there appearing at a loss of words and trying to find others, before letting out a small sigh and turning to the Moonlord again.

"I ain't a politician. I ain't a spy. And as Helm and Bargrivyek as my witness, I sure ain't no silver tongue devil or bard." He stated frankly and a bit dryly to boot. "It was asked if I was a member of the Zhentarim by your guards below. I denied this on the grounds that 'association' through a provisional partnership did not make one a member. Now, I could go on to list plenty of examples, theoretical or historical, showcasing the clear distinction between association and full membership within an organization and the likes in hopes of setting your minds at ease. I might even be inclined to share the more exacting details of this 'partnership' to the same end... But I won't insult your intelligence, Moonlord Davianna, by trying to coerce your assistance in that manner or any other. If you and yours are truly set to deny what is ultimately at the end of the day a neutral party's genuine request for assistance in dealing with a growing, and, eh... well frankly far more important threat then an old power struggle, rivalry, or... whatever your issues with the Zhents is this days, again well justified or not, then... so be it. I'd simply like to then thank you fer your time, sincerely apologize for overstepping any bounds with my bluntness, and hope someday if interest do realign that we might work together." 

Claire listens quietly as Natasha speaks, struggling a little to both listen and prepare a response at the same time.  As Natasha finishes, however, a moment of inspiration comes to the cleric.  She lets silence hang for a few moments, and then nods.  "You're right, as young as I am and as... human, as I am, I don't and probably won't have an experience I could relate to that... but, it does make me think of something.  Most of my experience with forces of the divine revolve around nature.  Back home, I traveled around the local villages and bless their gardens and their fields.  Plants are beautiful, you know.  Some more than others I personally think, but really they all are beautiful in some way.  Flowers can entertain us with their bright colors, their scents can remind us of places or people, wheat and berries feed us and give us the energy we need to survive and thrive.  They have such an impact, such an important place in our lives.  Most of them don't last very long, but that doesn't devalue the effort we put into taking care of them, or the contribution they make to us in return."

Claire smiles.  "The first batch of crops I ever blessed... I remember them.  I remember how excited I was that I had discovered my magic, how appreciative the villagers were, and how proud my family was.  I remember the lush green color and the earthy scent of healthy life... and even though those particular crops are long gone, withered and turned to dust, or cooked up and eaten... I still carry them with me, here."  Claire sets a hand against her chest as she speaks, and then moves it up to her her head.  "And here.  I know it seems a little silly to compare plants to people, but I hope what I'm saying makes some sense.  Zack and his child... and even I won't be here in this world for long, compared to you, but that doesn't make us any less beautiful.  Honestly, it gives me a small measure of peace knowing that there will be people like you who will remember us long after we're gone."  Claire sets a hand on Natasha's shoulder.  "It will be sad.  You and your sister will grieve.  And then you will remember us."

For Narz (will catch up with Claire in another post.)

Moonlord Davianna listens intently to your response. A wizard it shall be then. If only to confirm your intent. Though our agents haven't been reporting on you specifically, you've come up on several occasions it seems. Its a bit unusual to have a hobgoblin wandering around so freely along the sword coast. From what the reports have mentioned before now, I would very much like to believe you can be trusted. But I must be sure before I allow you entry to Moongleam tower. If what you say is true, and with the assurance of Sir Fair here, then perhaps we can enter the tower for a more, friendly conversation. Captain, fetch Archmage Valharrow. 

Right away ma'am.

The Captain leaves and a shortwhile later she returns with a human male who appears in his late 70s, with thinning white hair and a dark complexion. He carries a staff and on his shoulder rests a sleeping Tressym which he pets with his free hand. Now hold still young man. When you feel the spell take affect, be sure not to resist. He pulls a scroll from his robe and begins to cast the enchantment. You feel the spell take effect immediately. The Moonlord steps into the radius as well and says Now please, reconfirm with us the nature of your relationship with the Zhentarim. After, please tell us your intent with their organization. Afterwards, what it your intent here at Moongleam tower?

(Welp, missed my chance to make a response due to work, so I'll sit out till this plays out or something else relevant happens for him to respond to)

For Claire:

Natasha quietly listens and seems to nod along in places as you speak. When you finish shes quiet for a long moment as she contemplates things before nodding again. Thank you. I think I get your meaning, and you are correct. It won't entirely remove my concerns, not sure anything but time will, but I suppose you are correct. I shouldn't shy away from friendships out of fear of some future pain. Still, I'm not sure how other elves deal with such things. I'm sure there is still some more insight I could learn from my people. I'm sure its obvious but I haven't exactly spent much time around other elves. It was pretty much exclusively humans in the orphanage, and well, I guess this isn't exactly the kind of thing people talk about with each other anyway. Maybe ones with ones parents or family but, well. She shrugs. But thank you. I appreciate your words and will consider them carefully. Its good to be able to talk about it. Since meeting Zack its been on my mind more and more recently and well, its not that I don't trust him but I'm not sure I could talk to him about that specifically, at least not without possibly offending him. 

In the wake of the Captain's departure, Narz, who had found himself a bit taken aback by the Moonlord's less than aggressive counter to his claims, finally recovered enough to gently clear his throat. "While there were certainly some less than kind looks and suspicion leveled my way during the journey, and understandable so given the relationship most of us goblinoids share with, uh, societies outside our own, uh... it certainly helped that my traveling compatriots were largely able to smooth things over." He offered by way of explanation during the wait.

After that, Narz fell silent unless more was asked of him during the wait. During this time he'd also took care not to so much as side-eye Zack, least he set the man off. Not tha the hadn't necessarily trusted the man to keep his cool. But given what he little he knew of the man's relationship with the Zhents, goblinoid wisdom pushed aside curiosity towards trying to gauge the swordsman's current mood. For now.

When at last the wizard arrived prepared with magic for the inquiry, Narz unhesitatingly nodded in acceptance of the wizard's request. But being a hobgoblin, he needed to take a quick but steadying breath, suppressing the instinctive need to resist. Although after which he still studied himself as if to make sure nothing untoward happened as a result of the spell, before straightening out his stance again. "The nature of my relationship with the Zhentarim is as I said before. A provincial alliance in which information may be shared where it concerns the giant menace, at little to no financial costs depending on a given cell in an area.  As well as potentially coordinate efforts towards dealing with Giants. As far as more personal intent with their organization, that one is just as straight forward. I would make use of their information network to gain advantages over the giants, and those... that conspire with them." He said with a bitter tinge to his towards the end. After taking a breath to compose himself, Narz continues.

"... As far as my intent for the Moongleam tower, it is to make use of your teleportation network, or failing that, contacts the tower has that might facilitate its use, as the Giant threat is a far ranging one, and we may not have the weeks or months it would take to navigating the roads all the time to deal with it 'fore things get far too out of hand." He stated frankly.

Hmm, so the reports the Zhents are looking for ways to deal with the giants appear to have some merit. Well thats good at least. Do you intend to report any information you may gleam within the tower to the Zhentarim? Should we allow you access to the tower, do you swear to keep anything you might learn a secret from the Zhentarim, even if selling the information could aid you in some way?

Zack had no real reaction, but at this point he kept his mouth closed during the intervening time. Something seemed to be bothering the human, but he kept tight lipped. The only reaction he took was crossing his arms during the event. The spell being cast, and then the question asked, followed by Narz's semi-succinct response. Zack was more interested in the first chink of Narz's reply, as it was more detail into what happened than 'this group of adventurers helped this town against this enemy' with sparse details - And Zack wasn't surprised that Narz had met with some degree of racism cast against him.

The other half of Narz's response being expected, as Narz had somewhat told him of his intent already. Zack idly scanned around the room, for no real reason, not looking for anything specific. In the same way a prisoner might count the stones just for something to do.

With Davianna's response, he looked to Narz to see how he would reply. This was his interrogation after-all. Zack idly considered asking Davianna if he could use her weapon to enchant his own... after he learned he could do such things, but doubted it would go over well.

Although he would bitterly come to lament it to some extent or another later, Narz hesitated in answer, and instead combed his beard in thought. "... Put simply, no. I intend not to report any information I may gleam within the tower to the Zhentarim, nor sell any of it, secrets or otherwise, as both would defeat part of the point of why I made that provincial alliance with them in the first place. I will even swear by this." He assured the wizard, and by extension the Moonlord as his gaze turned towards her.

"... But on that note, it is my hope that given the nature of the threat to all that... Mn... that frankly at least information regarding the giants might be shared, in so far where it would not compromise the tower or your agents abroad. Despite clear distrust, if not animosity against them, I assume you have at least some go betweens for just that sort of thing, yes? If not, permit myself and those that journey with me to be that possible link. Though if this is not possible, then I understand and... we'll have to make adjustments to how we approach the greater matter."

"He does strike me as very prideful, though whether he would actually take offense, I don't know.  If you're not comfortable with it, I don't think you need to talk to him about it at all.  There's nothing wrong with shouldering certain burdens on your own, but keep in mind the people you can turn to when you do need support.  I doubt our journeys will have us travelling together for long, but whenever I'm around you're always welcome to chat."  Claire smiles brightly, and then chants a short blessing for Natasha, holding her hand above the elf's head.

Zack seemed to just be listening for now, as this wasn't his interrogation on either end. And he didn't want it to seem like he was attempting to influence anything. Besides, the hoblin seemed to be holding his own in this 'fight.' Once done speaking though, Zack added in at the end.. I do feel this would also Benefit my own mission, and I'm sure I can come to a defense pact between here and Daggerford.. And I can keep an eye on him if you feel the need in my official capacity.

The Moonlord nods, seeming satisfied with the answers she been given thus far. The wizard looks to her, anticipating another question. After a moments consideration she shakes her head and the wizard let's the spell fade.

Alright, I've heard plenty, and I'll take the Master at Arms word to back up your own. From my reports I dont think I'll need to worry about him being a Zhent spy. So, now that we all understand each other, why don't we take this conversation inside, away from any unwanted attention. Then we may talk more freely and openly.

She gestures toward the tower, the guards around her seem to have visibly relaxed, reverting back to regular guard mode and no longer worried about an immediate threat.

Thank you Claire. There is much wisdom in your words. Though as you said, I doubt our paths will cross for long, I'm glad they did. For now though it seems we have a mutual goal. My friend was seeking Harshnag the Frost Giant as well, and since he's not here I've no other leads than that. It seems the four of us can seek out this Harshnag and hopefully find what we each are looking for. Shall we catch up with the boys? I can't imagine they got too far but I can imagine the trouble they might get into if left alone.