To Torsus the Magistrate answers Well there are any of the old Walking Statues, He gestures vaguely towards the city where you can see the tops of several gargantuan statues whose heads peek over the inner walls. There's Eights of them and all offer excellent views though should Waterdeep ever be in peril the magic in them should bring them to life so I wouldn't recommend being on them if that happens. Regardless you'll be assigned to a unit of makes should the need arise, we wouldn't want you doing your own thing while everyone else is coordinating a defense, and having you fly would likely put you in the way of the Griffin Calvary. No any attacks by air will be dealt with my the Calvary with support from mages. But this is all information that you'll learn should you ever be called upon. For now just enjoy your stay in the city.

With everyone signed in you enter the city proper, entering the courtyard beyond the gate and into the field ward. For those of you familiar with Waterdeep you know this is a slum and only unofficially considered a wars of the city. You quickly make your way to the inner walls and through the inner gate, entering the North Ward. A mostly residential ward containing most of the Middle to Middle upper class homes in the city. Though its considered the quietest and most peaceful of the wards there are still thousands of people here and the roads are quite busy with people going on with their days. Where's the first place you'd like to go?

Narz quirked a brow at the mention of the statues. But wanting not to waste any more of the magisters and their own time in too much idle conversation, the hobgoblin let the matter stew in the back of his head. Later -- Perhaps even much later at that, there would be time to further research Waterdeep. Until then, all of his focus would be to split in taking in what sights there were along the way into the upper ward and keeping an ear out for any interesting gossip overheard, in the unlikely event there were plenty about doing so while hustling to various domiciles. 

As the group nears the upper district, Narz glances over to Artys and asks, "You mentioned before about land and title and all of that sort of things. I assume as well that means you have some permanent residence in town? If so, and if you are willing to extend the hospitality, a quick stop there to get more freshened up would not be so out of line, eh? Then, once we've finished the matter of the jeweler, we can set about seeking out the Lord's alliance member I.. hm.. I pretty sure I mentioned on the way here. If not, well, you know now." He said to Artys before snorting in mild amusement. 

Torsus nodded, though he did not respond. He was nonplussed in that he apparently wouldn't be able to make decisions for himself in the fight - if there was to be one - And for now listened to Narz and Artys speak as he followed along. 

Artys nods. "My family has a small home that we maintain in the city for the times we needed to be here. My mother was a private person so she liked some place she could go and get sway from everyone. This way." He says as he starts leading them through the city.

"Thank you for all your kindness and hospitality, Artys," Aeyd pipes in, following behind the ser. "Did you and your family need to be here often?" 

While you talk Artys leads down the High Road until you reach Hassantyrs Street. Turning onto this side street and following it another block you soon turn down a narrow but clean and well kept alley. A small painted sign at the entrance reads "The Street of the Manticore." About a quarter way down the alley is a small villa belonging to Artys's family. There's a modest garden around back nestled between other upper scale homes which face the Street. The alley isn't cramped but its certainly no room to store a horse and you notice there's no where to rest a mount. You'll likely have to find some stables later for the animals but for now you can reign them in the Street.  The door to the interior is of simple oak wood and iron. The windows at either end have small planters that seem to be empty due to the cold weather. Inside the two story village is a fine and modestly decorated home of polished stone and wood. It has a small kitchen and dining area complete with a hearth. Theres a sitting room and a library also on the first floor each with a fireplace. Upstairs are four bedrooms, one master and 3 smaller rooms for guests each with a fireplace as well. A small servants quarters connects to the garden though it is currently unoccupied and could provide more room.

"Fortunately not. We are country folk at heart and enjoy the open skies more. But there is always something happening in this city and frequently that needed our attention. And so, this." He ushers them inside and shows them around. "Feel free to take any of the bedrooms, I will take the servants quarters. We never had need for the whole family to be here so there are not too many rooms. You should find clothing in the wardrobes that will be more appropriate for our meeting with the jeweler, and perhaps this Lord's Alliance member as well. And as to your concerns, my dear tortle, I think you will find that some of my fathers clothes might fit. He was a strong man in his youth but he enjoyed his pleasures and over time that showed on his body." As he says this Artys backtracks and takes only one thing out, a small golden ring with a yellow stone set into it among prongs that look like antlers, which he slides into an inside pocket in his doublet. "Make yourselves at home. Just please don't destroy anything. Funds are needed elsewhere."

Without a much of a word exchanged, Vigo dutifully posted up to the side of the alleyway like some kind of giant guard dog; and with a soft and absentminded clap, Narz pulls Spaz from a pocket dimension to keep Worg company. "I will endeavor to adhere to your request but cannot make any promises. It was not but days ago that an Inn turned out to be the den of a 'vampire' in the common tongue. But, I'm sure there's nothing of the sort to concern ourselves with here, eh?" He commented while taking in the place in passing. 

"If we're to make good time for both places, we should get cleaned up a fair bit quickly though, eh?" He turned at that point intending to head up to start searching the guest rooms, but then stopped short and look back at Artys. Yet though his lips part as if to say something, he instead closes them in a small grin, then gave final nod before proceeding the rest of the way upstairs. "Let's meet back in the entryway once we're done." He called back to the others.

(If montaging the next bit...)

Following as close to a half an hour to an hour's preparation, Narz eventually returns to entryway wearing a smooth shirt and left unbuttoned at the top for a more casual look. On top of the shirt, he's wearing a trendy vest with 7 buttons, it has a narrow v-line, which allows for the top to remain visible even when the suit's jacket is buttoned up. The jacket is a bit snug on his six-foot seven frame, yet he didn't appear to bother by this. It has an elaborate checked plaid pattern which gives the suit a fancy affluent look. The 5 buttons of his single-breasted jacket are all buttoned up with the exception of one, a subtle but very effective touch of informality. The jacket is the same length all around, it has no vent, there are two pockets on one side and one pocket on the other and there's a breast pocket which contains a stylish pocket square.

He's wearing pants which have a different style than the jacket, but they complement each other perfectly and they create a perfect balance with his shoes. He's wearing a graceful pair of brogue monkstraps. To top it all off he's wearing a graceful belt, which are accompanied by gloves and cuff links, as well as a belfry top hat. Although apparently devoid of the heavy backpack and other exploratory essentials on his person, the party would know that all too likely that everything had been fitted into the black and brown satchel perpetually always slung over hsi shoulder.

Artys raises an eyebrow. "If you are insinuating that I am keeping some sort of dark creatures in my house then I would ask you to provide some evidence of why you think I would do such a thing, or rescind your accusation."

Prior to moving along and getting dressed, an nonplussed Narz looked back to Artys, opened his mouth to say something, then seem to reconsider the words before ultimately saying aloud, "My words were not meant to be taken as an accusation. Trust me when I say you would -know- when I would make such a claim and could skip the formality of demanding proof or rescinding of words. For rest assured, the former would accompany my claims, or I'd never speak to begin with." 

"I was merely being frank and honest regarding what a best should be an absurd scenario. That said, you are not omniscient, and a lot can change during the time one spends on the road, especially in these uncertain times... But if I offended you and your house all the same, good sir, then... I do apologize for my candor. As much as me and the tortle can at times find ourselves at... odds, I do to a degree share his wariness about any given situation." He admits. "Comes with the training most hobgoblins receive if raised by their kin. I'm just more open about it, so there are no, uhm, surprises."

Torsus took in the sights as they walked, trying to see what was different than his last visit nearly half-a-century ago, leading him to his first patron after a deal of mutual benefit. The city was a wendy and lengthy as he remembered it, he mused to himself. Though he had never before come across this particular street. His eyes wandering the shapes of everything (Especially the architecture, good OR bad) around him in the same way one might caress a lover. He had been caught in his own thoughts, his body on autopilot as he followed the others vaguely in the same way as when one drives to work day, after day.

He had made sure his pony was off to the side, far from the worg, if only due to the fact that the pony would likely look like a delicious appetizer. He breifly studied the architecture here before entering.

The group eventually reaching Arty's abode. Once inside, and instructions given, Torsus couldn't help but slow down and listen to the exchange between the two, ultimately ending in a snort of a laugh as Arts effectively experienced a deja vu of the moment he'd just had with the tortle himself at the gates. Though not exactly, it was close enough that one could draw a comparison. It comes variously Artys. he said, adding in a cap to the conversation... In my case, my own long life has led me to many experiences that have made me wary .. and admittedly weary. While As Narz said, he .. quite lit'rally had it drilled into him to expect branches to contain a foe... or some-such. Ultimately, I believe the best response would be "We will not harm the property without due cause" and I am sure Narz would agree that the wording possesses a bit more tact, and is fairly more concise.

he says then, going to wherever he was informed the 'Lard Father's attire was. Ultimately settling on something less flashy. Simply, and perhaps a bit fluffy at the hems and reaches where his wrists would be. Something a nobleman might wear to a party that was expected to be cold. Choosing to wear something akin to a kilt to finish it off. Finding a top-hat, and monocle to make himself dapper before seeming to approve. Though his expression showed he was clearly worried about tearing it whenever he moved. Eventually returning to the Foyer. But yes, unless our host has reason to delay us whether for himself or us, I say we get as much of our business dealt with so we can return our borrowed clothing, and finish our business within the city. Though I do recommend we all keep our eyes out for theives. For as great of a city as this is, it has an underworld too. And we're all about to gallivant in fine attire.

(So moving forward we are going to be entering downtime as winter shuts down most of the north. You'll have about 3 months of downtime before spring and thus being able to go on the road again. Not everyone has to come with Torsus to see the gem dealer though you can if you'd like. But I'd like people to think about what they want their character to do in the next 3 months. If you have questions poke me in discord and we can find something there for you to do.)

You all find some formal clothing that, while not a comfortable fit, is serviceable for a one off outing. Those of you choosing to Follow Torsus to his meeting with the Jewler head out to the High Road and head south for quite aways until you reach a shop made of silvered polished stone and shaped like a large multifaceted jewel. The sign out front reads Olmhazan's Jewels.

The inside contains several displays with an enormous selection of gemstones that seem to sparkle from every angle. At the far end from the door is a dark oak counter with a glass display showing off several more gems, behind which is an older human who greets you. Ah Welcome to my shop. I am Jhauntar Olmhazan, proprietor of some of the finest gemstones in North! Please feel free to browse or if you have something you are looking for, please do not hesitate to ask.

(anyone who doesn't wish to go to the jewelry store and wants to find something else to do or already has something in mind feel free, more than happy to do two things at once.)

Narz, if not out of solidarity than at least to scope out the place for the possibility of returning to acquire his own gem-based focus, naturally would join Torsus in the visit. Additionally, he hadn't gone out of his way to get cleaned up for nothing. Although if the others had a mind not to rest, but instead wish to be more active elsewhere, he'd suggest they link up with their Lord's alliance contact in the city about possible aid and the whole dragon business. He would head meet them there in such an instance.

Irregardless, Narz found himself at the shop greeting the older human in a small bow and respectfully replying, "Greetings, Mr. Olmhazan. A pleasure to make your acquaintance." As he came out of the bow, he shares a look and a nod to Torsus, and then drifted off to browse the wares while keeping close enough to listen and observe Torsus interaction with the shop keep. 

Torsus was as much all-business as a century old turtle could be. His hands -both- in front though, instead of in back (Which he personally found less comfortable) but he didn't wish the man to think he was up to something bad. The gem was already in his palms however, if only to facilitate the issue. He did spare a moment to admire the many shiny rocks in the mans business, some prettier than others in the tortles mind. However, once addressed he would bow gently before approaching, lifting the gem to the counter as he did. Indeed, greetings Master Olhmazan. I was told you were one of -if not the- foremost expert on gems and gemcraft.  I'll not waste much of your valuable time with overmuch flattery though, and I shall get straight to the point. I have need of your excellent services in order to ... make this gem facilitate my spellcraft. I'm sure you've had potions for one reason or another, ultimately to contain one liquid or another -preferably without the liquid removing itself- and I require just that self-same ability of this gem. I understand it seems as though it will devalue the gem, and perhaps in a collectors eye it will - But there is a spell I wish to cast that requires no less.

He says, realizing he still rambled quite a bit. But less than he otherwise would. If you are willing to do business with this trivial task (for you) please let me know what would be required of me. he says, avoiding for now to mention the old lord, if only due to the old lords own words of the man not being particularly fond. 

He looks you up and down before considering the gem. He takes a lens off the counter to further inspect it before looking back to you. I See. I could do this though first I must ask, I received a letter from a local 'lord'. More of a country bumpkin but Nobility still runs through his veins so I deign to listen to him only so much as is polite. Regardless, he told me I should expect a few customers, among whom would be a Tortle requesting my services. You wouldn't happen to be that same Tortle would you?

A single burst-laugh, as one might do if they had held their breath, though in this case it was more of a 'hah' escaped by reflex, if nothing else as he simply nodded, not trying to pad it with lies. I would. I admit he had told us you would likely feel as much, so I was attempting to avoid bringing up a potentially sore - or otherwise potentially-percievably negative. But if the Tressym is already out of the bag I see no need to fret over it. But yes, that is the case. And I shall be more blunt about mine need. It is, in fact for a spell.. a rather potent one in certain circumstances. Though we are trapped here in Watersdeep for winter, our goal is ultimately to deal with the literal-giant problem before it effects the realm, whteher it be simply informing local lords of what we find, or should my friends and I find ourselves in a pinch deal with it ourselves... and that is where the spell comes in. And thus why I turn to you, for your service.

While you may or may not dislike the man we both have spoken of, he did talk you up as quite the reliable man for such a task. 

Buttering up: 18

Olmhazan doesn't seem to impressed with you but he sighs and grins. I see, well, if it's going to be done right I'll have to do it. Besides, the cost has already been paid for in advance so it would be unseemly for me to ignore the request. It will take me a few days to gather the necessary components but I will have the gem sent to you as soon as its ready.

(can assume you give him the address of the home you're staying in. Or you can come pick it up on your own time. Either way we can hand wave it. Going to do any RP of Narz and Artys and anyone else wishing to meet with the Lords alliance member before fast forwarding in time)

(Handwaive it we shall)

Narz cannot help but give a small smile as he turned away from wares to adress Olmhazan. "Why my good sir, I do not believe that if anything, none can question your integrity as well. It is a shame that I cannot at this time make my order without seeing to certian assurances myself beyond this lovely store. But I would gladly return, if you would entertain the thought further business." He says, hoping to further smooth things over, if nothing else.

Persuasion: 13.
(Using Saving Face for the +1, since Torsus is the only 'ally' visible)

Come what may of that however, with the matter settled for the moment, he exit along presumably with Torsus to meet back with the others back at the manor. His initial hope having been to discuss plans for their winter stay and assuring to those concerned over the giant threat that the wintry conditions would limit them almost as assuredly as it would most of their own people. With the obvious exception of any frost giant shenanigans. Which on the subject of which, Narz would reiterate, if only for Artys sake at that point, "Speaking of which, we need to find Immar Street and Tower March, I believe they were called. There is suppose to be some type of Stone Tower there in which Chazlaugth Yarghorn resides within. With any luck, they had not parted from the city on some extended leave, as they would be our in with the Lord's Alliance." He looks to Artys with a grin. "I doubt I need remind you of their reach or standing, being a nobleman yourself. Or how they might further supply us with coin, armor, spells, or even further reinforcements for the task ahead of us. But we need to speak with them before getting too settled in. In this way, we won't be scrambling to put together plans towards the end of our stay, eh?"

"The only real question is... do you know of this tower or of Immar Street? If not, I suppose we can ask around. But either which way, this should be our next step."