Claire nods to Torus.  “You’re right, I just… I feel like I’ve done a lot more hurt than I have healing recently… I don’t regret it, it’s just not what I thought I was getting myself into.”  She nods to herself.

She takes the bag from Narz and agrees to his distribution of the loot.

"Hm?" Is Narz response to Torsus, as he had been in that very moment lost in thought studying one of the said tones. "Eh, hm... THought I had, but come to mention it, uh... eh. I'll deal with that a bit latter." He assured half-heartedly before practically burrowing his nose again in the newly found tomes. However, the dome wasn't so large or his mind so occupied that he hadn't heard Claire's response to Torsus.

... Or either that, Spaz was feeling sympathetic, as he'd pointedly walked over to start brushing against her until she started petting him/became distracted from grim thoughts. After an hour or two(giving the party plenty of time to get a short rest should nothing go south), Narz is able to peel himself away from his books long enough to suggest the party begin make their way back to town for the reporst.

Before the party begins to make their way back, Torsus responds to Claire. Life is all about perception. When two warring armies fight eachother, neither side is right or wrong. Both sides believe themselves fighting for justice, and their foe fighting for evil. Or equivalent things. You say you've done more hurting than healing? I disagree. You are Naieve, yes, and it's plain to see.  he said pointedly, not hiding the unabashed truth (from his perception) However you aren't a bad person. You simply lack experience.

Again, you say you've caused more harm than healing? Once again; perception. That giantess we just killed? she will harm no other person, preventing them from needing to be healed from injuries she would have caused inevitably.. whether directly, or not. Every person you strike down that is a threat to others, is one less person who will need healing in the future.

Claire opens her mouth to answer Torsus, a slight furrow to her brow as she starts to repeat herself about not regretting her actions, but as Spaz brushes against her, she just sighs and reaches down to stroke the animal’s fur.  Torsus was being supportive, as was Narz, in their own ways.  “Thanks guys,” she says.  When Narz mentions returning to town, she agrees.

You get your rest and head back to town and head right for the Calling Horns Inn where old lady Zoar sits behind the bar. Ah, Back so soon. Does this mean you have good news about our troll problem?

Narz just about opens his mouth to answer only to catch himself in time. He then glances to Claire and Torsus, and motion in a short gesture for them to go ahead and spell the beans while he made himself busy digging out the fire giantess trophies to put on display. If afterwards there were points that needed filling in or the other two weren't in much of a conversational mood, he'd then provide the cliff notes version, along with a, "Technically, I wouldn't say your troll problem is done forever. But if I had to give my best estimation, I'd say you aughta be good for a couple months at least. 'cause by all accounts them giants are searching far and searching sporadically for... well, whatever it is there after." 

 Torsus looks around, if only to see if anyone of interest might be in the area, though he doesn't look too hard. Regardless, as the lady notices them and queries about their success, Torsus gives her the bullet point nessecaries. Much as Narz has said, the trolls were under the control of a giant, and thusly harassed and goaded to attack your town for .. well.. food of all things. Th.. Torsus hesitated for a moment, considering. On the one hand to make this common knowledge would mean others may also seek things thus leading to the party being unable to find them themselves, but at the same time... to not say anything may lead to more death than needed... and thus, with a huff, a sign, and a yawn, all simultaneously he decided to open pandora's box. His hands weaving as he calls for guidance before he proceeds.

There are two things I must also say. The giants seem to be 'looking' for something... or things. They are scouring the lands for these, and I believe that it may be the reason for the sudden spat of attacks. I don't know the why, nor do I know if my theory is true... however... I believe it the most likely case. Thus I would ask you to inform any travelers of this, in hopes that more people will know so that perhaps we can find these 'things' before they do.

It would be best to assume that if a giant is in an area or attacking a settlement... that there might be something there. As such... we... well I didnt consult my friends on this first but.. perhaps creating some form of information network between cities, towns, and other settlements. Report giant activity so that hopefully ... we can find what they seek before they do, and thus prevent them from obtaining it - and if we can begin to learn what they're after and why.. more specifically.... we can end this giant threat.

I know, you're likely wonderign why am I suddenly springing this on you when your quest had nothing to do with giants..... but the idea only happened upon me now. And as a place of businesss that adventurers and travelers regular...

Guided Persuasion: 10 + 3

Zoar listens to all the information laid out before her with due consideration. Her eyes linger on the trophies placed before her and she "hmm"s aloud as ideas are tossed her way. She finally holds up a single hand to halt any further discussion. I see, well, a giant is certainly not what I expected, but it certainly explains the erratic and strange behavior by the trolls. The trolls attacking our town didn't seem to be looking for anything but rather fleeing something, a giant it seems. I've certainly heard about the increase in giant activity from travelers but I hadn't thought...well no matter. The giant is dead it seems and my problems are solved for the time being. I know not what these creatures would be searching for in the swamp but I believe you were looking for a certain Frost Giant yes? I bet he would know. While I don't know where he is Indo have a friend who does. But we'll get to that shortly. Come with me, we should talk in private.

Zoar leads you to behind the bar into her private rooms. Here she has set up a small living quarters for herself decorated with the spoils of her trade. Decoration the walls are dark banners with a symbol that's become familiar to you and your predecessors, a white flying snake on a black background, the symbol of the Zhentarim. Zoar walks over and pulls out a set of gold goblets from a cupboard and sets them out alongside a bottle of fine wine, finer than anything you've seen on offer behind the bar. An old crossbow and dagger hang on the wall above the fireplace and the furniture and fine mesh silks decorating them are of a quality you would expect of a waterdavian nobles home. 

As you can see, Innkeeping isn't my only trade. In my world information is amd has always been the most valuable commodity to trade. You've done me a service, so I'll give you the information you seek, but the information you provided me will be useful, perhaps to all the North. While I prefer to stay in the line of trading information, I've contacts all over the North with associates who've been concerned about these giant attacks. While we live in the frontier and a certain amount of risk and uncertainty is expected, this is beyond anything we've had since the dragon cult was causing problems. Its bad for buisness and gold doesn't flow to or from towns that have been destroyed by rampaging giants. They've been at a loss as to what may be the cause of these giant attacks, but the fact that they may be looking for something, or multiple somethings, may prove illuminating. I wish to thank you properly, for the information and for dealing with a giant when asked to only deal with trolls. I can give you your information network, but it will come with a cost. The blacknetwork does not usually part with information for free, and they are also particular about the outsiders they trust. If you'd like unfettered access to our information network the best way is to join. So, and I'll only offer this once so think wisely about your answer, I would offer you membership into the Zhentarim. She gestures to the wealth she's accumulated that decorates her small room. As you can see, if you're smart it can be quite profitable, and this is only a small taste. Our organization has been growing too, there's plenty of opportunity for those ambitious enough to seize it. If that doesn't interest you then you can at least make use of our information network, one that spans both the seedy underbellies and the Noble houses of nearly every major settlement from Neverwinter to Calimport.

The phrase 'You had my curiosity, but now you have my full attention' can best describe Narz' train of thought ever since seeing the oppulance possessed by Zoar, followed by the spiel. Unlike with his predecessors the hobgoblin began stroking his chin in genuine consideration of the offer. And while granted it hadn't passed his notice that the network might already have something on the party, and by extension their connection to their previous employers, the thought is almost immediately dismissed in a small shake of the head.

Realizing, however, that the motion could be misconstrued, Narz cleared his throat and made ready to speak up. "Before any decisions are made, and apologies if this seems a foolish question. But I presume you would wish for all three of us to be members in order to avoid this, uh, additional fee for the information we seek? And if you would pardon the boldness of this next question... what would be expected of us in joining the Zhentarim? Beyond of course doing what we've already been doing, which had up to no entailed helping resolve the driving force behind the giants rampaging about, of course."

Torsus' brow furrows as he takes this all in. He honestly hadn't expected this turn of events. The last thing he or his player had expected was some random, semi-racist innkeeper to be a member for the Zhentarim. Then again, he supposed that was the point, now wasn't it? His eyes look about the room as he takes in all the things around him. Riches had never necessarily been a motivating factor for the tortle. He sought wisdom, and when threatened with no recourse... power. Though that was what had gotten him here, wasn't it? The information network could be useful...both for himself, and for this mission.

His eyes swirling around in his sockets like one thinking of everything quickly. His chin in his palm, rubbing it. Narz interjects, asking some fair questions... ones he would have asked otherwise. And though the tortles mind was mostly made up at that moment, he waited only to see what the woman would answer before finalizing his own decision. 

Lady Zoar considers for a moment and nods her head in the affirmative. Normally I would not ask for you all to join as a group, but, well, I'm aware our organization has had run ins with you and your predecessors before. We would like to consider our past encounters water under the bridge, should you deny there will be no retribution. But if we are going to open up our resources to you then yes, you must join together, as a show that you take this offer seriously. As for expectations, it really depends. The Black Network often works in isolated cells. The goals of one cell may have nothing in common with the goals of another. If you're operating in an area and whoever is in charge of a local cell demands your help with something, then you would be expected to help. What might be asked of you thus depends on a lot of factors, what job is needed, your particular skill sets, the best perceived approach at accomplishing a task. However that would be for the future. Right now we would consider your task to be putting an end to the giant threat and bringing some semblance of stability back to the north. That would be your priority, which luckily is already your priority.

 Torsus mind links to both Narz and Claire for a moment. I am sorry Narz but this is the only way to do this without speaking aloud directly to our company. Hopefully this will also open your mind to being more open minded to having your mind open. he said, a bit of humor-vibes emanating through the mental link. I think we should agree. But I cannot speak for the rest of the group. Ultimately, Narz sought to find these teleportation circles to achieve this or atleast I think thats what you wanted.... either way, this would allow such a network to exist now. However I can see on the other side this being a detriment if we later open those teleportation circles but still... owe the black network.

Other downsides I can see is that the black network knowign the giants are looking for something.... means they might seek and obtain them first which.. i cannot say is better or worse than the giants having them.

So please, quickly think of your decision and reasonings, and then... I will speak the answer.

Narz raises a brow, as he could not recall having any personal run-ins with... No. There -was- the whole debacle with the missing noble and castle attack of theirs. Not to mention the fairly public fanfare afterwards, which now had him grimacing and rubbing his forehead over the realization before again straightening up and giving Lady Zoar his apparent full and undivided attention.

... Or was she referring to the whole burning Inn incid--'Focus, brain. Focus' He thought to himself.

Then came the mental intrusion that elicited an immediate frown from Narz. However, as someone used to putting on a poker face Narz seemlessly played it off with looking thoughtful at some nearby finery in at least consideration of the offer. Mentally, he projects a sigh through the link before speaking up. 'This... linking of mind can be discussed later. But as of their offer, I cannot say I'm particularly fine with it's open endedness with some parts, beneficial though they seem on the surface. But allies and information is far more important than the what ifs of what they might profit from this whole mess... for the moment, at least.'

'I'll stall a bit with other pertinent questions. See if there's more to this than a simple yes or no. So take that time to think and consider more, if either of you wish to' Narz then lets out a sigh and fluffs out his collar a bit. "So, I'm not sure if you're at liberty to say without us crossing of t's and dotting of i's first. But given the nature of our current and main concern, and how it might require interfacing with, uhm... notable organizations, I find myself having to ask just how visible will our, uh...affiliation will be with the Network? Because even if things being water under the bridge with our particular cell, the powers that currently associated with us be might be a touch... concerned? And preferably, I would like to keep things as discrete we can for as long as we can, which I'm sure a lady of your profession can appreciate." He said. "For that matter, how wide-spread would are affiliation be known within the network?"

An understandable concern, we would not want to risk tarnishing your reputation with certain Noble allies of yours, especially when those connects may prove useful. We wouldn't be much of a spy organization if our members were all overt. Though groups like the seven snakes operated more openly, their purpose was always meant to be one of intimidation and force. Most agents blend in with their surroundings. Innkeepers, stableboys, merchants and the like. You'd never know who they were unless you knew what to look for, the same can be true with you. I'll share with you our codes and signs, you can use them to identify yourselves as being a part of the Black Network. As for how widespread your membership will be, I'll send notice to the prominent members and cell leaders in the north. Normally this wouldn't be necessary, but I think a bit of added security is needed on our end to avoid any betrayal. We'll know your faces, and should you misuse this gift and betray our trust, well, we will will address that should you ever be foolish enough to cross that bridge. 

Through the mental link Claire reminds the others: ‘This is the organization that was harboring a vampire in that village… the one that turned…’ Claire swallows and flexes her jaw, but otherwise does her best to keep a poker face. ‘The one that killed Rollo.  I understand the concept of different cells having different goals, and if the annihilation of the Vampire and the Zhentarim’s hideout in that village can be made water under the bridge, that’s good I suppose, but if we ever had to bow to a Zhentarim leader and help with a similar plot in the future… well, I would have to refuse.  A refusal of such sounds like it comes with a cost.’

Lady Zoar walks over to the fire and stares into it for a moment. Your predecessors killed the seven snakes back in Nightstone. I've only heard of their reputation but when the effect of that was felt across the Network. Bounties were placed on their heads as one would expect. Though some of you were involved with them briefly, you helped our organization by stopping the succubus in Daggerford. When you're new group was formed it seems our interest in you ceased until you appeared in Bargewright Inn. I admit I don't know all the details of what happened, seeing as you killed the ones I charge there and those agents who were spared and didn't flee ended up on the gallows soon after. The higher ups weren't pleased with loosing that foothold. Needless to say a Bounty was placed on your heads as well, one that still goes unclaimed. If you deny, I'm afraid that bounty will likely remain until claimed. 

Turning she walks back over to the table. I don't mention this as a threat, but simply so you have all the information before you. You helped the people.of this town, my people, by dealing with the giant and healing our injured. The people of this town may not be part of the Zhentarim but they are still important to me. So regardless of your choice here you'll have safe passage through town so long as I'm in charge. But just be warned, that others will be looking to claim that bounty. I suppose if I'm being honest, there's no guarantee a few won't still seek revenge for Bargewright, but they would be betraying the Zhentarim if they attacked you, something I doubt any but the most foolhardy would dare. 

With the elephant in the room addressed, Claire speaks aloud. “Your cohats… cordets… co… er.  The Zhentarims in Bargewrite were hiding and helping a vampire prey on the local population. He killed one of our friends.  That’s why we burned the inn down and killed many of those associated.  If there’s a bounty on our heads, I suppose you can consider the feeling mutual… or so I would have said prior to this conversation.”

Claire huffs and crosses her arms, thinking.  “… you say the Zhentarim work in independent cells, so I guess the bastards in Bargewrite don’t necessarily reflect the rest of you… but if we were ever tasked by a local cell to participate in some kind of evil machination like supporting a vampire, I guarantee you I would not hesitate to burn another building to the ground.  If we join… can you guarantee we would not be expected to participate in such nonsense?”

She doesn't react at first other than a simple nod in understanding. I see, harboring a vampire eh? Never really trusted working with vampires myself, can't trust them and they look at you like food. Sure they can be useful but never worth the risk. If they were truly harboring a vampire then they were idiots who got what was coming. I'm sorry about your friend lass, for whatever thats worth. Unfortunately I can't guarantee anything, I don't know what the other cells are doing and I prefer it thet way, its safer. I don't think it likely but its clearly not impossible. That said we usually try to assign the job to someone who would be best suited to the task, clearly in a case like that you would not be an ideal choice.

Claire glances at the others, conveying her lack of interest in taking the offer.  In her head to the others (via Torsus’ telepathy) ‘If we join, it will probably only be a matter of time before our ideals clash with theirs… or at least mine will.  I’m not sure if that would be better or worse than just dealing with the current bounty.  If we join and betray them… we make an enemy of a powerful group.  Perhaps we could argue for a provisional allegiance… just to act as agents against the Giants, then we’d be aloud to cut ties.’

As the woman went on, Claire and Narz could feel through the mental link initially just neutral tones. As she went on about the bounty on their heads they could feel faint shadow surrounding his thoughts, including a mental We could feign to join them... learn their signs and gain that benefit, and then... deal with her if we struck hard and fast.... Before she could scream.... though as she went on the shadow dulled to a thin outline as her later words clearly set slightly at ease whatever dark thoughts he had been pondering. Torsus was neither evil nor Good. For him, everything depended on circumstance, and context. On the outside his face only slightly betrayed his internal thoughts.

Then, to Claire Torsus adds in..; While true, they may already see us as enemies on the whole. The Zhentarim from what I've come to know are built on deception. Perhaps they accidentally do some good as collateral, but they could simply be deciding to use us. Thus I propose we use them.  Let us join, if possible as you said as a provisional cell to mitigate risk. We must simply always be ready to be betrayed by them at any moment. Is that acceptable? Join them and should they betray us, crush them. Regardless, We could use their information network to more quickly pass around leads. Hell, we could even use them to find one or two of our objectives... we can continue on our way as we were, and perhaps they can scour the forest for my druid, Hmm? Just as an example.