Badger is impressed with the exotic wares available, and particularly digs the style of dress that gives the fellow dark-skinned folk such a mystical, mysterious look. He searches around until he finds a clothier that sells a gnome-sized bright red kaftan with gold trim, and a white loose turban. Mindful that his absent companions could meet their prophesied doom at any time, Badger thinks it only courteous that he secure essential supplies on their behalf. He purchases insect repellent sufficient for the rest of the party to share around, plus any extra rain-catchers that a group their size would need. Badger also examines and purchases any affordable exotic herbs with useful properties, to add to his herbalism kit.

He then accompanies Kaspaatu in the search for a guide. At the same time, he is mindful to look out for any local fortune-telling types to see what methods they use, anyone selling arcane spell scrolls, and to learn what is meant by the ‘Terror Folk’. He doesn’t show much interest in the gambling.

Kasaaptu giggles at the monkey that Barty is considering purchasing and is briefly tempted to look for a pet of her own, but then the quest they are here her brought her back to her practical self. The guide they hire can be her pet for this trip.

" Monkeys can be of real service...if you need poop thrown at an adversary." 

" I picked up this interesting local weapon, they call it a Yickle- wa...Yklwa or something. "

she holds up the 3' stick with an 18" roughly forged blade. Light enough to use in one hand, but will give her better reach and more options in close combat then just her sickle and dagger. The possible attack combinations parade through her mind and when she is alone in her accommodation tonight she will work them out.

Sir Darak Darkhall:  Nodding his head slightly in acknowledgement of the Dwarf, Darak replies, "I am Sir Darak Darkhall, Son of Dartleth Darkhall, Champion of Tyr, Warden of the Deep and Knight of the Realm." Gesturing to his companions, he adds, "These are Silas and Sickle. We have travelled to Chult to investigate this strange wasting sickness inflicting those that have been raised from the dead by magic. We believe the cause to be here. Have you heard anything concerning this sickness, or perhaps know of a likely place to begin our search?"

 "Or perhaps have you heard of a Soulmonger?" Silas added in. 

Kasaaptu hands over the 2 silver pieces for the hollowed out gourd filled with a greasy salve. The man behind the counter, with his thick accent and occasionally clucking noises says, "Very good, very good, best salve in town here. You come back when you need more. This is good for twenty times. Lasts all day, and best, doesn't wash off in the rain!  Such good, keeps the bugs off, and hey, hey, even that annoying mother in law won't stand too close. Just kidding, just kidding, no smell. Just bugs away."  He winks and passes over the small gourd.   She approaches the rain catcher stand.  They seem to be pretty straight forward devices. A light wooden frame that sits about 1 foot of the ground holds up a 5 foot by 5 foot square leather tarp. "The rain fills up the tarp, and shazaaa, you have clean drinking water!  It rains almost every day here.  Don't drink the water in the jungle my friend, very bad, very bad, mouth leeches, or catch Ubtao's revenge or shivering sickness. Use the catcher, clean water!  Very good price for you, very good.  1 gold crown."  The device folds up and fits in a cloth bag, and weighs 5 pounds.  The clothing stalls all have small curtains you can change behind and Kasaaptu comes out wearing a lovely, and alluring red bodice with with golden twines and strategic gaps in it's coverage, along with black sheer slightly puffy pants that let the air flow through them. The sandals are simple but let her feet breath.  She feels much more comfortable in the pressing heat. 

Barty picks up all of his meal and cooking supplies, opting for some exotic spices that seem very common and smell amazing and pungent. He finds a thin, but water repellant poncho that lets air flow through and around.  He finds some non-cotton clothes that breath easily, the loose fitting in green and brown fabric that is patterned strangely.  The man behind the counter says, "Trust trust friend, looks good in town, and in the jungle, makes it hard for the terror folk to see you."   "Terror folk?" inquires Barty.   "Oh, oh, new to Chult are you!?  They are tall winged lizard folk that live amongst the tree tops of the jungle. They swoop down with no warning and steal away the small, like you, they'll pluck you up out of nowhere.  This clothing will save your life I tell you!"   The entire outfit costs 2gp.  (+1 to visual based stealth checks in forests/jungles, -1 to visual based stealth checks in the city).  The monkey is not caged, but does have a leash and is tied to a tall wooden stand.  "This monkey is trained good sir!  He will stay with you as a lifelong companion.  His name is Shasta, and he can fetch, do rolls, a little dance, he can throw, leap, climb and will stay or go where you say, he's is most well behaved!"  (the monkey grabs the mans beard and gives it a firm tug). "OW!  YOU LITTLE....uh", he looks over at you, then laughs, "ha ha, what a little raskle, very playful you see?  Very fun and nice.  I sell him to you for only 80 gold!"    Barty explores his options, coming around one corner and finding a whole section of huge pens.  A man stands on a stand yelling, "Three hundred and fifty, do I heard three sixty, three sixty, going one, going twice, sold to number 19 for three hundred and fifty gold!"  Behind him, a three horned, four legged monstrous lizard with a massive protective shell around its neck like a lions mane, whips its tail back and forth.  Barty's eyes widen as he sees the saddle on its back.  A man hops leads the giant lizard away, though seems to tug will all his might just to get the creatures attention. He's also seen large dogs, owls, bats, snakes, cats, some exotic cats, weasels and even some large spiders. He clearly can buy any manner of creature here. 

Finally you approach one of the guide stands. (I will describe this in a bit) 

The dwarf raises the back of his hand to his forehead, with an open palm towards Sir Darak and says, "Well met fellow servant of Tyr. Ahh yes, the wasting disease. At first we thought this was some new assault by the undead that rules the jungles has besot on our city.  However we've since learned that this indeed stretches out wide to as far as we've heard from. Neverwinter to Chult, and from Chult to the Shining plains all up to endless desert. There have been others that have come searching here, claiming their magics have determined the source is in Chult. I am less sure. Over a century ago a warlord known as Ras Nsi summoned a vast army of undead to invade the city of Mezro, south and east of here.  It used to be a major city in these parts.  During the spell plague, the city of Mezro was destroyed and now lies in ruins. Ras Nsi was likewise driven off, his undead army spread throughout the jungles. I am not surprised that folks would associate the trapping of souls to Chult becuase of this association with undead.  Perhaps Mezro may be a good place to look if you're set on investigating.  Soulmonger, I've heard that term from a man that came before actually.  His name was Rowan, a powerful Tyrian cleric who had come from Waterdeep on your exact quest. Last I heard, he and his party had departed south to Camp Vengeance. They were going to use it as a base of operations from which to explore the depths of the jungle.  That was several weeks ago, and I haven't heard of them since."  He seems to hestitate. Sickle's gravely voice prompts him, sounds wise and smooth, "There is something else yes?  You are among trusted friends, please unburden yourself."  

The man meets Sickles eyes, and then nods, with almost relief, "I still do not believe the source of this dying plague is here, but, i have had a couple of strange visions. Ominous visions. Deep in the heart of the jungle is a city built by minotaurs. It is now overrun by snake people, but...even worse things dwell below. I have seen strange devils screaming in the dark. I'm sorry, that's all I know."

Badger picks up another of the rain catchers, figuring two should gather enough water for the party, assuming they stop and let it fill during rainfall.  (5 gp, 5 pounds).  He also picks up a twelve gourds of bug repellant.  Already he's spotted clouds of insects floating above the streets and anything that would keep them off seems worth it.  (20 silver, bulk discount).  "Oh good gnome, bless your heart, my children will eat tonight thanks to your generous patronage.  Please come back whenever you need more, I will give you my best price!"  

He spends 3 gold on his new outfit which both him companions agree fits just fabulously.  He also finds a plethora of exotic herbs and ointments to add to his herbalism kit.  For a total of 3 gold he adds enough exotic tinctures that should assist healing those who've been injured.

 The three approach a tall well built woman at one of the guide stands.  She makes eye contact almost as if challenging each of you, her face fierce. She speaks in a strong accent, "Guide?  Do you need a guide?  If you need a guide to get you through the jungle alive, look no further. I was born in the jungle. I know its dangers well, and how best to avoid them."  She is firm and confident as she speaks.  Seeing that you show interest, she continues, "Should you choose me, you may rest assured that your party is in safe hands. I charge 5 gold coins per day and require a 30-day payment up front."  She watches each of you do the math of the costs, then shows the slightest concern, "If you aid me in a personal quest, I will waive my fee and guide you to places no one else has found!  This quest will take us to Firefinger, a roost of the evil Terror Folk! My name is Azaka!" 

“Eh, seems a little high priced for a monkey..” as he walks away, turning the corner he begins to inspect the dogs. “How much for one of these?”  He begins to pet the dog if allowed by both owner and dog.

The "dog" is about 180 pounds of solid muscle and its eyes glare at at Barty, challenging him to get within chomping distance.  The owner gives Barty a firm look as he tries to approach the dog, "This mastiff is trained for combat little one, you wouldn't be able to control him.  Please stay back."    He turns back to a dark skinned human wearing a golden arm band and light blue robes that flow loosely around him, "Look, he's well trained. 30 gold is the cheapest he could go for. I've raised him from a pup." 

Barty pulls out his coin purse and tosses it in the air before catching it.  “Tell me something, does their attire mean their money spends better than mine?” He says with a raised eyebrow.  “This is no way to talk to a customer.”

 "Azaka,  that's a strong name and you look capable. Do you have knowledge of a thing called the Soulmonger? Or information on likely powerful necromancers operating in these Jungles?  Likely there would be increased amount undead near such a device.  If you can lead us to it, I am sure my compatriots would be glad to aid you in ridding this place of the horrible sounding terror folk. "

Kasaaptu looks for any sign of deception or trickery. That's a lot of money up front before any service  has been provided. Is she attempting to take advantage of outsiders?

Perception:14

" Any decision would have to be made when we gather this evening. We would have to let you know tomorrow morning."

Regardless of the stated fee, Badger thinks that securing the free services of a guide in exchange for helping with a small personal matter sounds like a bargain. But one can never be too careful...

Urgh, excuse me Azaka. I'm certain we could aid you to our mutual advantage. But Fate is like a strange, unpopular restaurant filled with odd little waiters who bring you things you never asked for and don't always like. Surely you would want to be certain that our assistance would turn to your benefit, as we would for you. Would you permit me to examine the palms of your hands that I may see into your future?

Perception: 8

(Sorry, I meant to write Persuasion)

The store owner turns and looks at Barty, "Look little guy, I didn't mean to offend. It's nothing to do with your dress.  Nor your money.  I'd gladly accept it, but, I mean."  He motions to the dog.  He motions back to you. He motions back to the dog.  "He outweighs you by a good margin. He's well trained, but...I just feel like you may have trouble controlling such a beast."  The other patron walks off as he is facing you.  He turns back to face him, "Oh...sir..."  he sighs heavily then back at Barty.  "Look what you've done."  He frowns and turns away.  (There are other folks selling dogs, this is a big market, if you are interested in buying one you could find one.  If you want to really try and convince this guy, roll Persuasion). 

Azaka seems confident, fierce, a bit wild, but doesn't seem to be lying.  (btw, rolls to determine lying are "insight" not "perception" for the future)  She looks down at the strange turban wrapped gnome and extends her hands wordlessly.  

Badger pulls Azaka's hands close to his face and mumbles almost inaudibly while examining them:

Hmm, interesting. Heart and head lines short but strong. Life line long but faint. Hmm. Decisive, passionate and dedicated. Strong attachment but not to others. Suffered loss and fear. Conceals a lingering pain. Will achieve success in goals, but will not enjoy the peace enjoyed by others.

Then dropping her hands and looking up at her face, seemingly unperturbed by her gruff demeanour, he smiles warmly and says:

Urgh, you will live a long and fruitful life! I see you are a trustworthy ally, and I hope you can be satisfied that we are too.

Sickle studied the dwarf as he spoke, seeing the mix of exasperation and nervousness in his face as he spoke about the wasting.  How many have come before us, he wondered to himself. Seeing the hesitation at the end of his description, Sickle pressed, and found the additional information. Dreams could be unreliable, but still, given the nature of what they sought...

“This Minotaur city, is it a place that is known? Would you know where to find it, or is it only from your dreams?”

Barty puts one gold piece down.  “Just give me a chance, please.”

persuasion - 5

following animal handling? - 6

"Strange does not even begin to describe these lands. Looks like the jungle itself is where we shall venture but a  possible destination seems to be many," Silas holds his head from information overload. Silas grabs crowbar, Sledgehammer, Shovel, Block and Tackle and a two-person tent whenever they come across a market. 

The dwarven priest smiles a grim mirthless smile at Sickle, "The minotaur city is indeed a place.  It is the lost city of Omu. Though, as you may have guessed, being lost, people do not know where it lies.  Somewhere out amongst the vast stretches of the peninsula's jungles, inhabited by undead, disease, venomous creatures and worse." 

Silas picks up his goods for market price, soon lugging a significantly heavier pack for travel through the jungle. 

Barty makes his plea.  The man snorts and turns back to the crowd, refusing the coin, "The very best trained mastiff's! Guard your property, improve your chances in the jungles, these animals are guaranteed to give a thief pause!"  Barty ignores him and approaches the Mastiff which seems near to growling before a few clucks and a outstretched hand let it sniff in curiosity.  A few moments later Barty is scratching the animals neck behind the ear as the muscle bound beast licks Barty's face enthusiastically.  The man turns back from the crowds, and his mouth practically falls open. A deep confused furrow stretches across his brow, and then a long thoughtful look.  Finally a lopsided frown appears on his face, and he holds out his hands, "Very well little man. It would seem I've misjudged you. You can take him for 23 gold."  

Azaka nods seriously at the small gnome, "Thank you. Well, as your female companion has said, it seems you must discuss with your group this evening. If I have not been spoken for by tomorrow, then you will be able to find me here." 

Barty, Kasaaptu, and Badger continue their walk, passing by many other guides hawking their services, as well as what shortly becomes a blur of vendors selling goods of all types. They stop for a small taste of some honey based fermented drink called Tej along with some roasted skewers of strange yellow vegetables and white spongy turtle meat.  A middle aged Chultan woman with a wide flat nose wearing light blue robes, "Do not fall for evil imposters seeking to blind you with the promises of gold, I know the jungle! If you wish to rid this world of evil, I am your guide!"   A non-Chultan native with an odd accent along side a fare skinned halfling stand together as the man yells to the crowd, "Why pay for one guide when you can have TWO for the same price! We have the smarts, the goods, and our own triceratops! Treasure abounds!"  Another, a dwarf with deep scars down his head and across his face, and with only one arm, the other just a scar covered stump, looks grimly out at the ground, gruffly speaking in a booming voice, "I've stood atop every mountain in Chult!.  I know every gorge and crevice, every plateau and trail. A dwarf will never steer you wrong!"   All of them seem to be "Jobal" guides.  A quick inquiry, "The merchant prince Jobal runs the guide services of the city. We all pay him a portion of our earnings else we can not sue for work here." 

What do Sickle, Silas, and Sir Darak do once they're done talking with the dwarf?  Same question for Barty, Badger, and Kasaaptu, though they may have more digging to do here at the largest market called "the grand souk".  Apparently the inn you're staying in is in the southern part of the city around the "Red Bazaar" in the market ward which occupies most of the southern portion of the city. The city has the harbor ward where you started, a northern merchants ward, the hill with the temple ward, and "old city" that sounds like a slum outside the main walls to the north, a warehouse district in the center of the city down by the water, an area outside the walls to the west in a narrow gorge called "Malar's throat".  To the west of the southern part of the city, outside the main walls, is a poor area called "Tirkyki Anchorage".  The city sports a gladiatorial colosseum, dinosaur pens, three large markets, numerous temples, bathhouses, and of course the estates of seven merchant princes that rule the city.  

 Silas, as soon as they have a room, will proceed to leave his heavy armor and stuff in the room. He will keep his shield and axe on his person just in case. Silas will wander around the inn asking about Camp Vengence and any word on the Cleric, Rowan. 

Barty smiles back, “Thank you.” As he continues to scratch the dogs ears.  “I’ll make it a flat 25 for some food to start out with.  What’s your recommendation for a balanced diet.  I’m not familiar with the food and wildlife here.”

Making his way to the Jobal guides , he points with his nose and asks his companions “What do you think? We should probably talk to each.” Barty makes his way to the halflings, naturally.  “That sounds more than fair.  How long you been in these lands?”