During the groups winter break, Aeyd had been busying herself with bettering her sneaking ability. Currently, it was acceptable at best, but she wanted to perfect it, and she would take any opportunity to practice, even if it was merely looking over someone's shoulder as they read something undetected. It also helped with her lying ability had she been caught! Though, that could definitely be worked on more...

The elfs ears would twitch at the mention of wandering around town. "Oh, that sounds fun!" She pipes in. "I agree with Narz's plan. I've heard some good things about the Yawning Portal from my walks around town. It wouldn't hurt to check it out." She also secretly was excited about maybe being able to check out that upscale spa. She'd never been to one and, well, she thought they all deserved it!

Insight: 8

Artys nods. "The Portal is always interesting, and usually full of folks who've led the types of interesting lives that we need in order to gather information. As for organizations, I'm sure there are very few who would side with the giants, though advertising ourselves as on the docket of the Lord's Alliance might dissuade some from directly helping us in praticular."

With a destination decided upon you all make your way to the Yawning Portal, a three story stone building with a slate roof. It's quite busy inside, being the most popular place for adventures to gather within the city. As you're entering a loud chorus of cheers erupts as a party made up of a dwarf, half orc, human and half elf all descend down the gaping well in the center of the inn which leads to the Undermountain. Well wishes and toasts to bravery and adventure fill the air for a few more moments before everyone goes back to their own drinking. Luckily for you, the party that just descended left their table open and you're able to grab a seat on the first floor. The owner, a retired human adventurer named Duran, comes takes any orders of food and drink you might want, at a discount for the holiday. ( 1 gold for a meal 3 silver for a drink). Looking around the possibility of finding someone whonl may have information on giant activity seems endless. Adventurers of all walks of life are here and every race seems to be represented. Besides the human owner who is sure to hear most news, there are a few individual's that stand out as being a cut above the rest. On the second floor leaning on the railing and looking down below is a male draw, his pale white hair cut short and swept to the side. He overlooks the first floor and though outwardly he appears relaxed you can tell his guard is never down should a fight begin. From his bearing you gather he is a scout or possibly a warrior, likely to have tangled with giants in his time

On the same floor as you is a group of red, blue and black scaled dragonborn. The talk quietly amongst themselves but bear the scars of many battles. One of them seems to be wearing a trophy of sorts, the thumb of a cloud giant hangs proudly around his neck. A table of dwarves, from Mithral Hall by the accent and regalia, drink and cheer loudly at a table next to you. You hear them talking loudly about having to cut down a pair of Fire giants on the way to Waterdeep. Finally a tall and muscular human wearing the furs of a tribal barbarian stands against the railing of the taverns 3rd floor. He looks decidedly uncomfortable here and bares wounds consistent with damage from extreme cold.

Torsus had spent most of his money on his study prep for the winter, leaving him with a bare satchel of barely more than ten gold. Though he knew that many urchins would consider it being well-off. Perspective is everything in life afterall. Despite Torsus' earlier comments, he would likely enjoy the respite from the 'stuffy rich home' that, as luxurious as it was, also felt very confining after enough time was spent there. Torsus watched the debacle as the group entered, a group heading into the dungeons below to claim one of three things: Riches, Death, or nothing.

Once the celebratory cheers settled back into the usual tavern-fare, and the drow became more visible... Torsus found himself curious for many reasons. They had their purpose, but this was also for fun as much as it was for intel gathering. Making his way to the grizzled and noodle-armed owner, Duran Torsus laid the requested amount on the surface, ordering for 'two' and informing the aged, and easy-to-kill Duran that he would be on the second floor where the 'drow was.'

Once the preperations were set, torsus meandered his way towards the drows location, climbing the stairs wherever they could be found. And once 'on the level' - and as he approached - Torsus mentally reached out, saying Greetings drow. I am the aged tortle hobbling towards you! We can speak like this if you wish, or if you prefer to talk normally give me but a moment. For now, I must say the obvious: Tis rare to find one of your kind outside a hole, let alone in such a busy location and not being assailed by the patrons!

Charisma: 6

Investigation: 14

Artys heads up to the third floor with two drinks of his own. "Greetings, good tribesman. You look like one who has seen harsh times and could use some ale. Here, have one of mine."

To Sidewinder/Artys:

 As dangerously low on funds as Narz had been there was little in the ay of hesitation on his part in paying for the first round of food and drink for those of a mind to partake of as much. Such was his plan upon entering at least, as he'd half expected the group to get settled in for a bit and take in the crowd before business. But some eyes were keener and he was not one to begrudge an early division to seek out knowledge and perhaps resources to tap in the coming days.

Yet if after the first minute it would appeared at least one member would hold down their table while the rest mingled, then he too would in time find himself approaching the dragonborn trio, figuring his size, race, and demeanor was the least likely to earn an immediate dismissal from the clearly more grizzled warriors. But first, there was a brief detour to the bathroom for some discrete spell weaving.

With preparations out of the way, Narz made his way to the Dragonborns' table and says, "I could not help notice your friend's trophy there and wondered if you lot would mind sharing the tale of it. As I understand it, the giant that tends to belong to are the most reclusive and difficult to deal with." He requests, but quickly adds, "Perhaps in exchange for o a round of drinks or two." He added in draconic.

Torsus:  The Drow scowls at the attempted mental intrusion though its clear to you that he was able to shut out your telepathy. When you finally close in you see the Drows hand resting on the hilt of his dagger. What do you want Tortle? Can't you see I'm trying to enjoy my drink in peace?

Narz: The trip of dragonborn glance at once another and smirk at the prospect of free drinks. Sure, take a seat and order the drinks, be glad to tell ya the tale says the black scaled. Happened in the North. On the Road between Mithral Hall and Silverymoon. Well not on the road per se, off the beaten path. (how many drinks do you plan to buy for them? That will affect how much of this story they are willing to tell.)

Artys: The barbarian eyes you a bit suspiciously, clearly put off by being approached by someone clearly of nobility. In my experience in your cities and towns, your kind never give something away freely. Those buying me drinks always want something. A body guard or to try wipe out some den of creatures for them. Be upfront with me and tell me what you want.

Persuasion checks: 20 6 23 16 18 13 17 8 22 25 7 18

Artys sets the drink down on the table. "Nothing like that. I'm simply looking for information on the giant activities around the area and you seem like someone who knows about things like that."

Torsus skips most of his preamble, only adding in the part about it being rare to see a drow outside of a cave or tunnel, and not being assailed for his troubles. Adding Well then perhaps you would enjoy some food as well. I've already ordered my bribe for you, tis only a matter of waiting for it to arrive.  Torsus says plainly, wondering how the drow might react to him calling a bribe a bribe. Aside from my genuine curiosity as I've never met a drow before and I've an inquisitive mind - my assumption of you being here unharassed means you are atleast willing to parlay with surface dwellers - But you seem to have a discerning eye, and a look of confidence about you. And perhaps, there is a chance you know something about ... giants. his compliment was platonic but genuine, and he resisted the urge to say more, feeling leaving it on that last word was more dramatic.

Artys: Why would I? Why not anyone else here? He sighs and shakes his head. No, sorry, I should not be so rude. This city just makes me feel, out of place. But you are correct in your assumptions. I've had some contact with giants while up north. Fought beside a frost giant if you can believe it. Harshnag the Grim he was called. He's something of a legend up north, depending on who you ask. I always assumed he was long dead, wasn't even sure the giant I fought beside was him though theres not many of his kind that will fight alongside the Tribe of the Bear. 

Torsus: The Drow eyes you curiously bug shrugs and seems to relax, accepting the bribe for what it is. Luckily its not long before food and drink is sent up and he seems to accept it. I've no reason to hide my heritage, least not within the Portal. People here are used to seeing the odd drow, those who aren't are usually smart enough to steer clear. If its information you seek you should really just need to know who to listen in on. Luckily for you I've already done that, mostly to figure out where to avoid when I leave the city. You want that information you'll have to offer something more interesting than a meal and some drink. (Make an offer and a persuasion check)

Narz smoothly transitions into his seat, though mentally bids a nearby roaming Spaz to return to the table and keep any others there company. At the same time of the transition from standing to sitting, he quickly takes in the measure of the dragonborns. After which point he'd call back the server and request three rounds worth(3 gold for 9 drinks/3 for each dragonborn). If turning back he sees the dragonborn look even remotely surprised Narz would then chuckle and just jest, "I would never dare to insult Dragonborns by confusing them with Kobolds and being as easy to satiate at that with one drink alone."

But regardless of whether he need say as much or not, he proceeds to ask, "Off the beaten path you say? How curious! And pretell, do you all learn of what they were doing where they were? Certainly nothing as uncouth as raiding like their hill giant cousins I hope." He requests before putting a hand to his chest. "That reminds me. The name is Narz, by the way. A bit of a far traveler these days, to say the least."

The tortle puts his elbow in his hand and considers with his other on his chin. Initially, his mind goes to the dart of warning... the least valuable of his trinkets, and likely the only one he'd ever give up. He needed his ring for personal, mental safety, and his rod made up for his shortcomings... the dart was a nice trinket but not as needed as the others. Then Torsus remembered something he'd forgotten about until now. Something that would appear valuable to some... and as he chewed on a little of his meal and sipped his drink to wash it down with, he slipped an odd book from his satchel.

Hah, if only my mental powers were so strong that I could do more than listen to willing subjects thoughts how much easier life might be hmm? he says, caressing the books spine, opening it.. Perhaps a curio then. As much as I would wish to keep it for the unique thing that it is.... Perhaps you will find it enough. I do not exactly remember the operation of the item, but it is sentient as you or I. And can recall recent events, though it portrays them with its own flare. Go ahead, do your thing... he says to the book, asking it to.. do its thing.

The dragonborn do indeed look surprised however pleasantly slow and seem more than open to telling the full tale. Well yes, we thought we'd cut through the Moonwood to save on time but ended up getting turned around ya see. Ended up heading too far north and right into the Coldwood, right where the wood and the mountain range called the Ice Spires meet. Ended up finding an encampment of fire giants cutting down large swathes of the forest. Not sure what he was doing there but a lone cloud giant seemed to be held prisoner. We thought maybe we save the cloud giant and he'd share some of that cloud giant treasure I hear they carry. 

We may not look it but we are more adept at stealth than one would think when we need to be. Managed to unlock the cage and cut our way out with the cloud giants help. Of course, turns out his gratitude was short lived. Soon as I demanded payment he turned on us the bastard! 

That's because you were an ass about it. Shoulda just asked all polite like. I guess cloud giants get uppity about that sorta thing. Anyway, we had the upper hand what with him weakened from all the starvation and torture and what not so even though he was so big he didn't standa chance three on one. Had shit all for treasure but we managed to take a little trophy of our own.

The book doesn't speak but words can be clearly seen scribbling across the pages on their own. ...and finally the old Tortle opened me after so long in a stuffy bag. The ungrateful peasant offered me up to a drow of all things as payment. But I did not mind, for a life of recording the jumbling of various items in a back was starting to drive me mad. If only I were not a book and had the means to kill myself I could be free of this torment. Perhaps the sketchy looking drow will have better use of me or perhaps he will toss me in the fire to burn. Either would be a release. Still it is good to see the outside world again. The goblin in the purple dress totally just stole that half elfs coin off the table and I'm pretty sure she's going to try and, yes yup she just took the drows coin too. The drow, reading this quickly turns around and hits the goblin on the head, knocking her out and taking back his coin. 

I'll take the book. Hand it over. He takes the book and resecures his coin before clearing his throat. If you're looking for giant activity I've heard there's a tower in the Dessarin Valley, in the hills just off the road to Longsaddle. A female hill giant has been spotted going to and frfro the old ruin but no one knows why.  Most are too afraid to go near due tonstrange sounds that come from the tower at times. Its far enough off the road that most people seem to just avoid it but who knows whats truly going on there. Could be worth looking into.

Artys raises a brow in surprise. "Fought beside him? That's new to me. All of the giants I've met seem more intent on not being friendly. Any chance he mentioned something about why all the others have suddenly gotten so active and uppity?"

Something about the All Father being upset with his kin. I'm not quite sure what that means amd didn't think to ask at the time. Had my own worries and they took me elsewhere. But yes I do agree it was strange, though he said he was a member of the city watch here in Waterdeep. That seems too far fetched for me to believe, but he didn't seem the type to lie either. Artys, history check if you'd like (or you can spend some of the lore you've earned)

"I see then, hm... Coldwood, wasn't it? Interesting... hmm... By all accounts, it sounds as if those fire giants are in the process of building fortifications, or something far more worrying. Were there any hobgoblin, eh, underlings among this encampment of fire giants?" He asked, and upon recieving an answer be it good or ill, simply nodded and rubbed his chin in thought for a bit. "Either way, I wouldn't feel too regretful about the whole thing. From what I understand of giants -- cloud giants in particular at that, trickery and deception are something of a virtue for them. So likely it was any 'reward' was to be bound up in that, even if the riches promised were indeed to be great."

"And speaking of rewards for that matter, I hope you don't mind me inquiring into your plans once winter breaks? No promises just yet, but I might have a job for you by its end. One that can either take advantage of your adeptness in stealth as you put it or be as straightforward as a bit of guard work, if you three are interested. And if not, I would understand, but find myself yet curious of if you had any other interesting tells of happenings in the north."

(I'll spend the lore check)

Narz: Goblinkin eh? No can't say I remember seeing any of your brethren among their ranks. Looked to be just the giants themselves though I suppose there may be small folk among them for fodder elsewhere. 

Artys, you've heard stories of forcegrey, a group of adventurers/highly experienced city guardsmen that have often come to the cities defense during times of great crisis. You've heard they had a giant in their ranks however that was likely a hundred or more years ago. Well within a frost giants lifetime of course so its possible this is the same giant in question. If so that would make him aligned with the forces of good, unlike his kinsmen.

Artys nods. "I've heard stories of someone like that. I always thought they were just stories. Interesting to know they're not. Well, thank you for your time, I'll let you drink in peace." He heads back to their table downstairs.

Torsus nodded, though he did seem sad to part with the sarcastic tome. Not wanting to offend the drow further, he says I may one day come back for it, as I had nothing else to offer at present. Thus why I did.. So should the day come I wish to reclaim it, is there a way I can get in contact with you again? And I assure you the reward will be worth relinquishing it. If not, then I suppose there is naught to be done. Thank you for this information regardless.