"Mhm..." she mumbles to herself. So she does it for her parent, she thinks. Then considers the story as a whole. "So what you're saying is there is someone or something and it's messing with the natural order of things... and this will be dangerous. If that is the case then I'll be in. Something like this will test my skill, increase my reknown and likely increase my financial status." She fumbles for a moment because that sounds petty and says, "By that I mean, I'd be able to afford passage home or to where every I want to go."
You search much of the afternoon for Vil, and your trail ends at Tiryki Anchorage where it's said he returned the Hadrosaur, which you confirm. Those you talk to at the dinosaur pens say he disappeared after returning the dinosaur, and they seem anxious to find him and ask his name and yours as well. You don't need an insight check to realize that these men are aggressive and asking a lot of questions, and you give them no information and quickly back away.
@Cimeri/Celtra/(Scoria?):
You loiter in the Red Bazaar for a few minutes before Somber Chord actually shows up. She plucks a vibrant chord when she sees you.
"Ah, friend of the needy! Somber Chord is good to her word, and appreciates your patience!" she draws a gold piece from a sack in her left paw.
"Your gold, borrowed…," she hands you the gold… "and invested!" She hands over the small sack. "My gratitude to a kindness when no others would help me. If I may ever be of assistance to you, find me at Kaya's House of Repose."
The sack holds 9 gold pieces.
At the Thundering Lizard:
The Thundering Lizard is full of patrons this evening; the mishap at the races is on everyone's mind and you're toasted more than once when the tale of your heroism is spread. Over the course of the evening, the prospective guides pass in and out; they are asked
the quickest way to Camp Righteous
Anything else interesting in that area or further downriver
Have you ever been lost in the jungle and if so how did you find your way back
Why do you take people into the jungle of your homeland?
We are seeking something in the jungle; will you torture natives with us to get information?
Azaka:
River. By canoe. The undead legions cannot catch you in the water. Unless undead crocodiles find you.
There is much in the jungle; depending on your bearing, I may know someone who can help you find this lost item.
More than once. Anyone saying otherwise is a liar. Re-oreient as quick as you can. Carry more food and water than you need. The idea is not to find your way back, but to survive as one with the jungle so that you may find your way forward.
I prefer the jungle over the city. My reasons are my own.
We will part ways if you harm innocents of the jungle.
Hew:
I know it. River probably.
Wyrmheart Mine. It holds riches beyond your wildest dreams.
I don't get lost. Ever.
This isn't my homeland. I do it because I have a sharp axe and an eye for gold.
You will get what you seek through whatever means are necessary.
Eku:
The woman holds up her hand and shakes her head.
"I'm sorry. My services are no longer available."
Faroul/Gondolo
Easy. The River.
We happen to have a map to a hoard of treasure. It's not near Camp Righteous, but who says no to gold?
Never. The sun tells you where you are.
Gold, of course.
We're not overly fond of that sort of thing, but we're well practiced in looking the other way.
Salida:
River.
The jungle is full of treasure, gold and otherwise. I know of more than two unplundered ruins.
Not often, but mistakes happen. Nature will tell you the way, if you open your eyes.
As I said, the jungle is full of treasure. I like treasures of all kinds (Looks Fulcra up and down with a smile). You all look as if you need gold; at least, this is what your shabby garb tells me.
You must be of stout heart to venture in Chult; sometimes distasteful things must be done to survive, but you don't have to like them.
She adds, looking at Cimeri, "What is this purple thing? Some kind of pet? An ensorcelled demon? She is too young to be in the jungle, she is not even old enough to have had her moon blood yet; you should leave her here."
Musharib:
Depends on your motivation. River is fast. Travel through jungle can yield unexpected treasure… or death.
I do.
I am a native of this land; we natives know the jungle. Even when lost, we will find our way back eventually. Key is staying alive in the meantime. Water. Food. Get what you need from the land. Berries. Roots. These are things the natives know.
Coin helps my people; also, I am looking for chosen warriors to help me.
The jungle shows no mercy.
Just as you're ready to quaff your last Tej and head to bed, Vil arrives, followed by a female human, dressed similarly to him. He clasps Fulcra on the shoulder and gives a heartfelt glance at each of you.
"Friends… more pressing business calls me away to my homeland. This grieves me; I do not abandon comrades lightly. But I have found a fellow sister to help you in my stead. Friends, meet Bryn."
To Celtra, Fulcra smiles a warm smile, "We are glad to have you pushing and dropping skills with us. Indeed, much renown. Don't forget the royalties from the plays about you. Certainly sufficient for you to get home."
Fulcra is relieved to see his friend, and then somber to hear of his pressing business. He searches his eyes for concern, and then nods, "You know why I must stay. Best of luck, I will seek you out when we return." He gives him a warm hug and shakes his hand as they part ways.
"Well met Bryn! I am Fulcra. I am from the far east. I am often told I have strange ways and speak in an odd manner. I must say, that the manners of western folk are just as strange to me, as much as your face looks strange to me. But, I suppose I'll get used to it as we travel." He offers no sign that anything he's said is untoward.
Regarding the guides, he says to the group after they've interviewed them, "Azaka and Musharib are the only options in my mind. Taman, please choose one."
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
What's the difference between a Wizard and a Sorcerer? Class.
Taman, having questioned the guides as they passed by, Agreed that they seemed to have but two choices. Since he does not know what Musharib might need warriors for, he decides that Azaka is their best bet. "I feel that Musharib might have his own agenda, and may be more worried about whatever that is, instead of helping us with our quest. Azaka seems to be quite well-versed in the jungle and is the one I believe we should go with."
(Cimeri would not fight for her opinion, but Azaka won her over with disgust to torturing - so much so, she would consider going with her should such an event occur. That's kids for you, what can you say.)
Fulcra looks around the table, "So be it. Azaka it is." Fulcra seeks to let Azaka know that they "would be proud to have you lead our important mission into the jungles of Chult. Taman is in charge of paying your fee. We would be pleased if you could attend our trip to the market tomorrow in order to purchase appropriate supplies and canoes."
"Taman, we will wait for you to have your ...ahem...visit....to the elder lady tomorrow, but otherwise we will be prepared to leave by noon. Everyone else, tomorrow we go shopping for supplies, canoes, and everything else we need to make sure we don't die in the jungle. The goal is to head out along the river towards Camp Righteous."
To Azaka, "As an aside, Azaka, you mentioned you know someone who might be able to help us find this lost item? Can we go meet them tomorrow before we leave?"
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
What's the difference between a Wizard and a Sorcerer? Class.
Azaka roars with laughter and claps Fulcra on the back roughly [DC 10 CON save or spew Tej all over Taman's robes].
"Silvertongue," she names Fulcra, "we cannot talk to my friend tomorrow. Let your somber, robed friend speak to his elder first. You do not know where you wish to go yet, yes? Wait for that. My 'friend'," she chuckles, "is very far away and there is great cost to speak with her. But if you cannot find your way, she would be a last resort. Now," she takes Fulcra's mug and quaffs it, slamming it back down on the table, "to negotiate. Along with meeting my friend, I will waive my fee completely if you help me get my lost mask. No mask, no friend, and a fee; 150 gold up front for thirty days, 5 gold per day beyond that. Should you choose to help me, my ask is that we get what I need first, I will then guide you for as long as it takes to find this item you seek. What say you? You have my word, the word of Azaka Stormfang, that I will not abandon you after I get the mask; do not question the word of a Stormfang.
Agree to this and I can take you to sights none have seen for many years, and treasures the ******* Fist has not yet plundered. I will let you ponder this as I find someone worthy to share my bed tonight." She drinks Cimeri's Tej in one gulp and moves to the bar to speak with Benin the Barkeep.
Bryn would bow her head in a respectful greeting to everyone when introduced. She was a tall fair skinned female with piercing green eyes that resembled emeralds. Wild, but tamed, the half-giant's hair is a mix of braids and dreadlocks, tied back in a ponytail.
After being silent for an awkward amount of time, Bryn would nod to Fulcra, "Some find me strange as well.I can be a woman of few words." she would shrug, "Would be boring if we were all the same."
The druid would look to everyone, "It will be interesting to join you all on this journey."
"Cimeri," politely introduced herself tiefling girl. //Description of the group under the cut with gigantic picture of Cimeri, sorry//
Cimeri - young tiefling, dark purple skin, white elaborated tattoos, horns, black hair, black eyes. Fulcra - tall thin half-elf, pale, with a kind face and curious eyes under a tangled mess of dark black hair. Taman - a quiet confident human, with storm-grey eyes and black hair. Celtra - ? Warrior-woman.
Judging by the looks, Bryn did not require any explanations - Vilvandor probably filled her inn, but there was something interesting said, better left for another time to ask. For now Cimeri stoically ignored casually expropriated Tej (she did not drink that stuff anyway) and asked new guide (while she was enjoying free drink) if she knows how to find Kaya's House of Repose.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Con save: 9
Fulcra coughs a bit but manages to avoid spraying his drink everywhere. He rubs his shoulder where she hit, "Great, with man hands like yours I'm sure you'll find someone robust for your bed tonight." After Azaka wanders off, he sighs heavily, "I'm regretting our choice already. Anyway, I have no interest in helping her find some mask in the jungle. We're on an important quest. Let's pay her the fee and go where we seek. Ya, Taman, once you have your chat, we'll decide which way we head. Bryn, glad to meet you. I'll make sure I fill in the silence you leave with some words so you don't feel uncomfortable. I have many stories to tell, including about this one time...wait....no, not in mixed company. Anyway..."
With that, Fulcra gives Cimeri a squeeze on the shoulder, "Early to bed, early to rise, makes a person healthy, wealthy and wise. Off to bed with you." Fulcra then retires himself, looking forward to finally seeing the jungle tomorrow.
"And just how much gold does everyone have, that we can afford to pay this fee?" Taman speaks up as the group is alone for a moment, their new guide over talking to the barkeep. "It seems everyone has their own agenda, which I guess we should have expected. As long as it does not delay things too much I am not against helping her get what she wants, especially if it gains us more good-will with our guide... I will wait to decide on that until after my meeting tomorrow though." He bids the others a good night then and also retires.
OOC: Good question about money - can we use Scoria's? On the other hand, Flynn did not share his part :) Right now Cimeri has 194 gold and willing to spend it all on the expedition.
Rest was well deserved. Still feeling responsible for Celtra's invitation, Cimery asked for two more rooms (expecting Bryn to stay as well) and went to her room. There was not much space but you can do basic excises practically anywhere as long as you can stretch there. With all shenanigans Cimeri missed her regular training, but mornings and evenings were secret. Exercises - bath - sleep - exercises - bath - breakfast. Simple routine that never fails. At the morning the girl was ready to go. Though, still hoped to visit Kaya's House of Repose - she was not sure why, but a local willing to talk felt like a worthy lead.
Flynn and Cimeri hug one last time before parting. "Oh, niece…," he begins. "Here. You will need this." He hands over 100 gold to Cimeri, keeping 25 of his portion for himself. "Best of luck."
After Celtra met the group:
Scoria turns to Cimeri. "You're brave, Cimeri. Watch yourself. I must abandon this cause, for the time being. I have word that my tribe is in peril. She turns to Celtra. "This is an honorable cause." She turns back to Cimeri. "Should this one join the cause, give her my part of the supply money." She hands Cimeri a sack of 50 gold, which is eventually given to Celtra.
Before Vil left, he and Bryn clasped hands.
"You're taking my place; this belongs to you." He hands over a sack of 50 gold to her.
Before Azaka, your guide, walked away to speak to the barkeep:
She turns around at Cimeri's question regarding Kaya's House of Repose. "Far end of the Red Bazaar. Look for the clean building with liveried bouncers." She turns to Fulcra. "Ah, yes, Silvertongue, when I hear where we are headed I will buy our supplies with you, certainly." She turns away.
[Everyone please update your sheets w/ these gold amounts; Cimeri, the two beds come to 10 silver so in all for one more night the cost is 36 silver.]
Back to the present…
You wake to the squeaking of wheels upon axles as traders of the Red Bazaar begin hauling in their wares for the day. Grunts of giant reptiles mix with shouts from drivers and laughter of children. You rub your eyes and crack your jaws with a yawn; the Thundering Lizard is raucous on the quietest of nights and the revelry noise kept you from sleep for a bit last night.
You gather in the common room to break your fast. After a simple meal; Cimeri heads to Kaya's House of Repose.
@Cimeri:
Cimeri gathers her courage outside the very fancy inn with two goliath bouncers dressed in livery standing at the door. She's never seen a sillier sight of these two burly creatures stuffed into purple tunics bearing an image of a divan on the front, matching the sign above the door, but is still intimidated by the glares from the bouncers. She gulps and traipses past in her green dress (the yellow needs a bit of a cleaning…) and into the inn.
She's reminded a bit of the Merchant Prince's Villa and Syndra Silvane's mansion; 'Kaya', if that's a real person, seems to enjoy covering every surface with gaudy gold and silver paint. Marble columns and floors shine brightly amongst plush, velvet upholstered furniture, all the color purple, matching the livery of the servants who rush about. After slipping past the interrogations of a third doorman, a lizardfolk putting a monocle to his eye, she finds Somber Chord finishing a tune for a finely dressed half-orc and halfling consort.
"Purple One!" the grey furred Tabaxi plucks a wondering diminished chord as she speaks. "Somber Chord is delighted to see you! To what do I owe the honor?"
Meanwhile at the Thundering Lizard:
Benin the Barkeep speaks at you as he polishes tankards, seeing you passing the morning loitering about the common room. "Nothing on the agenda today, eh? Well… gonna be a 'Run' in the Old City at the next bell; some fool went and murdered a rival without getting a sanction from Merchant Prince Jessamine first. Should be a good one, folks say he looks quick. Maybe he'll make it. Also there's a matinee fight at the Arena. You could get to either if you hurry."
You discuss plans as Taman excuses himself and heads for the Temple of Savras.
@Taman:
Your stomach does backflips as you enter the Temple and are instantly greeted by Sister Picla; you're immediately seen and whisked away. Her face looks blank and she says nothing but motions you to follow; your breath comes harder as you try to keep up with her quick steps across the grand hall under the dome. Taking the same path as before you are brought to Grandfather Zitembe's quarters; he sits in the same place you left him, but he stands as you enter.
You bow before the venerable old man, who appears thoughtful. He paces slowly as he speaks.
"Cleric Taman, I'm sure you understand that Savras' guidance is… often left to much interpretation. The ritual was a success. The vision I received… was not pleasant. There was a heaviness to the vision… a heaviness I feel when something of great import is being divined. Savras is telling us to pay attention. There will be no further divining on this… what I saw was more than I usually see."
He pauses. "Savras showed me a jungle city far to the south, enclosed by cliffs and crawling with snakes. These were not snakes of nature; I believe Savras was telling me these snakes were evil, or magical, I cannot be certain. In the city was a black obelisk, covered in vines. The pure evil coming from the obelisk… I dared not delve deeper. Whatever you are searching for, this obelisk is central to finding it, as is the city." He frowns apologetically. "I know much of Chult… and I do not recognize this place. The snakes… it's not clear. There seemed to be no people living there… this is all I can tell you of this issue. Your god has sent you to me and Savras has sent me this vision… you must find this city. You must find this obelisk and this item you seek… something horribly evil is happening there…"
Sister Picla comes forward to lead you from the chamber.
Fulcra, "Cimeri, why don't we go with you to the house of repose. We'll do a bit of browsing around the area while you meet whomever you're looking to meet, then all of us can walk around the city a bit. I"m not particularly into watching a theatrical execution, or a gladiatorial fight. Bryn, Celtra, sound ok? I think it's a good idea for us to stick together."
To Taman before he leaves, "We'll expect you to be back after lunch here so we can plan. Good luck my quiet friend."
If people are into that plan, after Cimeri's meeting, we'll start wandering around the city, exploring and hitting up any of the interesting sites in the city such (in order) : Temple of Tymora (Malar's throat), Fort Nyanzaru, Public Baths, Dye Works, then the Hall of Gold before heading back to meet Taman.
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What's the difference between a Wizard and a Sorcerer? Class.
Taman leaves the temple and seeks out the one guide who turned them down flat... Eku.
"I do not know why you refused to be our guide, but I wanted to pick your brain if you don't mind." He thinks she is most likely someone who he doesn't have to worry about bad feelings, and he wants a second opinion before he goes to Azaka with what he has found out.
"I would much appreciate it," agreed Cimeri, who was not that fond of idea wandering around still unknown city in order to meet with someone, she actually did not know. "I can not even explain why do I want to meet that bard. She seems to know a lot about what is going on around here. And the place is so overwhelming I still feel like I need a guide to cross the road. May be nothing will come of that talk, but I want to see her. I'll try to be quick"
The house of repose was surely impressive. Some might call excessive gilding/silvering a bad taste, but for a humble monk from a small village it looked incomprehensibly rich. The only thing she would personally object - the coloration. She began to feel like a piece of furniture and was relieved to find Somber Chord. "I am not sure why I came," admitted Cimeri from the start. "You said we can talk and there are things I do want to ask someone about. You see, my friends and I are going into the Jungle. There is a curse, sucking very soul from people, that we believe is affecting every land and source of it is somewhere on Chult. On the continent people are very concerned, yet here, at the origin of things, nobody seems to even understand what we are talking about. And yet again, yesterday there were armies of undead storming the gates. People reacted as if this was some part of natural order of things, that has nothing to do with any curse. I am confused and need someone explain to me what do you see here as "normal"? Why no one is worried about undead's invasion and so surprised we call it curse?" She tilted her head looking at Chord's reaction "Do my questions make any sense to you?"
[OOC: After reading the below, which I'll open to everyone for sake of brevity, I'll need everyone but Taman and Cimeri to choose an alignment on their character sheet]
After asking Azaka where the guide Eku might be found (and calming her worries about going to a competitor), Taman heads to the Old City, one of the three areas of PN outside the city gates.
Three ancient, vine-covered ziggurats tower above the crumbling ward. The whole district is a juxtaposition of ancient and decaying (but still occupied) stone structures interspered with flimsy new huts and longhouses of bamboo and thatch. It's clear this is one of the areas where the middle and lower classes make their homes.
Passing under a rope bridge between two of the ziggurats and before the end of the stone-block trench dug into the ground know as Executioner's Run, you find Eku quietly passing out bread to young children, a smile on her face. She looks up as you approach, and her smile fades.
"Cleric of Azuth," she nods at you in acknowledgement. "What brings you outside the safe walls of the city?"
You answer as she continues breaking loaves of bread and handing them out.
"I thought I made it clear what my mission is," gesturing to the children, and at the crumbling walls of the Old City. "I do not get the impression from you or most of your troop that we share the same values. Convince me otherwise and perhaps I can answer some questions for you; you seem to me a Neutral man, but I do not yet see Good in you."
[For reference, Eku's handout is on Page 18, Post #357]
[@'The Others of youse']:
You all seem a bit out of place amidst the finery and well-dressed folk lounging about the open common area of Kaya's; more than one liveried servant raises an eyebrow as you track mud inside.
Somber Chord answers, "Ahhh…sense is made of your words, well, some of them." She shifts her weight, flicks her tail out of the way and rests her backside on the edge of a divan, daintily crossing her legs, lute across her lap.
"Let me begin by saying I am not from here, originally, so I do not know the minds of all Chultans. Regardless…I think Chultans know of this curse, all of us do, but none know how to stop this, yes? I would ask why you think it starts here in Chult, or why anyone would or should believe you. Do not suppose Chultans are obtuse or unhelpful, but to some ears your words would be preposterous or even threatening. Chultans have great pride in their land; they may not want to believe that horrible curses come from it." She arpeggiates a minor chord as she speaks.
"You are young, my friend. You want to move quickly; I sympathize, I really do. But I believe a wise cat once purred, 'A long journey starts with many small steps'. I am no longer an adventurer but did learn in my time seeking riches that preparation of mind, body, and equipment was essential. Beware anyone telling you otherwise. Should you find whatever evil is causing this, do you think you and your comrades would be equal to the task of taming it? Do not rush to certain death, Purple One."
"You mention the Scourge, the undead legions… I think people are more worried about these day to day attacks than the death curse. Common folk cannot afford a resurrection; death is death for them, so they seek to stay alive. Your words tell me you may be confused. The undead… the scourge… they are not caused by this death curse. They have been here… as long as I've been here, so at least ten years. Chultans do not like to talk overmuch about this, so I have not gotten the story. But the undead attacks… yes, commonplace. The riches of Chult that I found were in the areas of the jungles far from these undead; I am no cleric and had no desire to fight them. Have I answered your question? And how rude of me, who are your friends, and your name again?"
At this point, there's a disturbance at the door as one of the goliath bouncers ends an argument with a haughty human woman with a shaved pate but for a thin braided ponytail that starts at the nape of her neck. She wears more armor than most adventurers in Chult you've seen despite the heat but doesn't appear to sweat; her sunburned, pale skin is dry. Clearly a warrior of some kind, she bears an iron club on her belt, which she puts a hand on as she shoves past the goliath bouncer, followed by three nondescript Chultan natives in dark loincloths. She strides to Celtra and stands eye to eye with her, mere inches away.
"I need you to come with us. Merchant Prince Ifan Talro'a wants to see you regarding a racing Allosaurus."
Taman nods to the woman. "You are very wise." He says as he considers things. "A close friend of mine was laid low by the death curse that festers across the land." He informs her with a grave look. "I am leading the group you met in hopes of forestalling this curse from taking any more good people. We have heard that there is an evil artifact in these lands, called the soulmonger, which is working as a lich's philactory, but pulling in souls from across the entire world. I do not know what purpose such evil is being used for, but I would hope that any good-aligned person would be willing to help aid in the destruction of such an artifact. that is my goal and current mission." He goes on to explain what the elder of the temple told him of his vision, as well as the fact Azuth himself had contacted Taman in regard to this matter.
Celtra stares at this woman and frowns. "He wants to see me and he sent you and three others. That's hardly courteous." Turning to Fulcra she continues, "From the display it seems that hostile intent looms in our future."
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"Mhm..." she mumbles to herself. So she does it for her parent, she thinks. Then considers the story as a whole. "So what you're saying is there is someone or something and it's messing with the natural order of things... and this will be dangerous. If that is the case then I'll be in. Something like this will test my skill, increase my reknown and likely increase my financial status." She fumbles for a moment because that sounds petty and says, "By that I mean, I'd be able to afford passage home or to where every I want to go."
@Fulcra:
You search much of the afternoon for Vil, and your trail ends at Tiryki Anchorage where it's said he returned the Hadrosaur, which you confirm. Those you talk to at the dinosaur pens say he disappeared after returning the dinosaur, and they seem anxious to find him and ask his name and yours as well. You don't need an insight check to realize that these men are aggressive and asking a lot of questions, and you give them no information and quickly back away.
@Cimeri/Celtra/(Scoria?):
You loiter in the Red Bazaar for a few minutes before Somber Chord actually shows up. She plucks a vibrant chord when she sees you.
"Ah, friend of the needy! Somber Chord is good to her word, and appreciates your patience!" she draws a gold piece from a sack in her left paw.
"Your gold, borrowed…," she hands you the gold… "and invested!" She hands over the small sack. "My gratitude to a kindness when no others would help me. If I may ever be of assistance to you, find me at Kaya's House of Repose."
The sack holds 9 gold pieces.
At the Thundering Lizard:
The Thundering Lizard is full of patrons this evening; the mishap at the races is on everyone's mind and you're toasted more than once when the tale of your heroism is spread. Over the course of the evening, the prospective guides pass in and out; they are asked
Azaka:
Hew:
Eku:
The woman holds up her hand and shakes her head.
"I'm sorry. My services are no longer available."
Faroul/Gondolo
Salida:
She adds, looking at Cimeri, "What is this purple thing? Some kind of pet? An ensorcelled demon? She is too young to be in the jungle, she is not even old enough to have had her moon blood yet; you should leave her here."
Musharib:
Just as you're ready to quaff your last Tej and head to bed, Vil arrives, followed by a female human, dressed similarly to him. He clasps Fulcra on the shoulder and gives a heartfelt glance at each of you.
"Friends… more pressing business calls me away to my homeland. This grieves me; I do not abandon comrades lightly. But I have found a fellow sister to help you in my stead. Friends, meet Bryn."
[@Ixi: please describe yourself, etc.]
To Celtra, Fulcra smiles a warm smile, "We are glad to have you pushing and dropping skills with us. Indeed, much renown. Don't forget the royalties from the plays about you. Certainly sufficient for you to get home."
Fulcra is relieved to see his friend, and then somber to hear of his pressing business. He searches his eyes for concern, and then nods, "You know why I must stay. Best of luck, I will seek you out when we return." He gives him a warm hug and shakes his hand as they part ways.
"Well met Bryn! I am Fulcra. I am from the far east. I am often told I have strange ways and speak in an odd manner. I must say, that the manners of western folk are just as strange to me, as much as your face looks strange to me. But, I suppose I'll get used to it as we travel." He offers no sign that anything he's said is untoward.
Regarding the guides, he says to the group after they've interviewed them, "Azaka and Musharib are the only options in my mind. Taman, please choose one."
What's the difference between a Wizard and a Sorcerer?
Class.
Taman, having questioned the guides as they passed by, Agreed that they seemed to have but two choices. Since he does not know what Musharib might need warriors for, he decides that Azaka is their best bet. "I feel that Musharib might have his own agenda, and may be more worried about whatever that is, instead of helping us with our quest. Azaka seems to be quite well-versed in the jungle and is the one I believe we should go with."
(Cimeri would not fight for her opinion, but Azaka won her over with disgust to torturing - so much so, she would consider going with her should such an event occur. That's kids for you, what can you say.)
Meili Liang Lvl 5 Monk
Dice
Fulcra looks around the table, "So be it. Azaka it is." Fulcra seeks to let Azaka know that they "would be proud to have you lead our important mission into the jungles of Chult. Taman is in charge of paying your fee. We would be pleased if you could attend our trip to the market tomorrow in order to purchase appropriate supplies and canoes."
"Taman, we will wait for you to have your ...ahem...visit....to the elder lady tomorrow, but otherwise we will be prepared to leave by noon. Everyone else, tomorrow we go shopping for supplies, canoes, and everything else we need to make sure we don't die in the jungle. The goal is to head out along the river towards Camp Righteous."
To Azaka, "As an aside, Azaka, you mentioned you know someone who might be able to help us find this lost item? Can we go meet them tomorrow before we leave?"
What's the difference between a Wizard and a Sorcerer?
Class.
[Ixi, you there?]
Azaka roars with laughter and claps Fulcra on the back roughly [DC 10 CON save or spew Tej all over Taman's robes].
"Silvertongue," she names Fulcra, "we cannot talk to my friend tomorrow. Let your somber, robed friend speak to his elder first. You do not know where you wish to go yet, yes? Wait for that. My 'friend'," she chuckles, "is very far away and there is great cost to speak with her. But if you cannot find your way, she would be a last resort. Now," she takes Fulcra's mug and quaffs it, slamming it back down on the table, "to negotiate. Along with meeting my friend, I will waive my fee completely if you help me get my lost mask. No mask, no friend, and a fee; 150 gold up front for thirty days, 5 gold per day beyond that. Should you choose to help me, my ask is that we get what I need first, I will then guide you for as long as it takes to find this item you seek. What say you? You have my word, the word of Azaka Stormfang, that I will not abandon you after I get the mask; do not question the word of a Stormfang.
Agree to this and I can take you to sights none have seen for many years, and treasures the ******* Fist has not yet plundered. I will let you ponder this as I find someone worthy to share my bed tonight." She drinks Cimeri's Tej in one gulp and moves to the bar to speak with Benin the Barkeep.
Bryn would bow her head in a respectful greeting to everyone when introduced. She was a tall fair skinned female with piercing green eyes that resembled emeralds. Wild, but tamed, the half-giant's hair is a mix of braids and dreadlocks, tied back in a ponytail.
After being silent for an awkward amount of time, Bryn would nod to Fulcra, "Some find me strange as well. I can be a woman of few words." she would shrug, "Would be boring if we were all the same."
The druid would look to everyone, "It will be interesting to join you all on this journey."
Bryn imagery:
just an unstable unicorn.
"Cimeri," politely introduced herself tiefling girl. //Description of the group under the cut with gigantic picture of Cimeri, sorry//
Fulcra - tall thin half-elf, pale, with a kind face and curious eyes under a tangled mess of dark black hair.
Taman - a quiet confident human, with storm-grey eyes and black hair.
Celtra - ? Warrior-woman.
Judging by the looks, Bryn did not require any explanations - Vilvandor probably filled her inn, but there was something interesting said, better left for another time to ask. For now Cimeri stoically ignored casually expropriated Tej (she did not drink that stuff anyway) and asked new guide (while she was enjoying free drink) if she knows how to find Kaya's House of Repose.
Meili Liang Lvl 5 Monk
Dice
Con save: 9
Fulcra coughs a bit but manages to avoid spraying his drink everywhere. He rubs his shoulder where she hit, "Great, with man hands like yours I'm sure you'll find someone robust for your bed tonight." After Azaka wanders off, he sighs heavily, "I'm regretting our choice already. Anyway, I have no interest in helping her find some mask in the jungle. We're on an important quest. Let's pay her the fee and go where we seek. Ya, Taman, once you have your chat, we'll decide which way we head. Bryn, glad to meet you. I'll make sure I fill in the silence you leave with some words so you don't feel uncomfortable. I have many stories to tell, including about this one time...wait....no, not in mixed company. Anyway..."
With that, Fulcra gives Cimeri a squeeze on the shoulder, "Early to bed, early to rise, makes a person healthy, wealthy and wise. Off to bed with you." Fulcra then retires himself, looking forward to finally seeing the jungle tomorrow.
What's the difference between a Wizard and a Sorcerer?
Class.
"And just how much gold does everyone have, that we can afford to pay this fee?" Taman speaks up as the group is alone for a moment, their new guide over talking to the barkeep. "It seems everyone has their own agenda, which I guess we should have expected. As long as it does not delay things too much I am not against helping her get what she wants, especially if it gains us more good-will with our guide... I will wait to decide on that until after my meeting tomorrow though." He bids the others a good night then and also retires.
OOC: Good question about money - can we use Scoria's? On the other hand, Flynn did not share his part :) Right now Cimeri has 194 gold and willing to spend it all on the expedition.
Rest was well deserved. Still feeling responsible for Celtra's invitation, Cimery asked for two more rooms (expecting Bryn to stay as well) and went to her room. There was not much space but you can do basic excises practically anywhere as long as you can stretch there. With all shenanigans Cimeri missed her regular training, but mornings and evenings were secret. Exercises - bath - sleep - exercises - bath - breakfast. Simple routine that never fails. At the morning the girl was ready to go. Though, still hoped to visit Kaya's House of Repose - she was not sure why, but a local willing to talk felt like a worthy lead.
Meili Liang Lvl 5 Monk
Dice
Previously on Boba's Tomb of Annihilation…
Flynn and Cimeri hug one last time before parting. "Oh, niece…," he begins. "Here. You will need this." He hands over 100 gold to Cimeri, keeping 25 of his portion for himself. "Best of luck."
Scoria turns to Cimeri. "You're brave, Cimeri. Watch yourself. I must abandon this cause, for the time being. I have word that my tribe is in peril. She turns to Celtra. "This is an honorable cause." She turns back to Cimeri. "Should this one join the cause, give her my part of the supply money." She hands Cimeri a sack of 50 gold, which is eventually given to Celtra.
"You're taking my place; this belongs to you." He hands over a sack of 50 gold to her.
She turns around at Cimeri's question regarding Kaya's House of Repose. "Far end of the Red Bazaar. Look for the clean building with liveried bouncers." She turns to Fulcra. "Ah, yes, Silvertongue, when I hear where we are headed I will buy our supplies with you, certainly." She turns away.
[Everyone please update your sheets w/ these gold amounts; Cimeri, the two beds come to 10 silver so in all for one more night the cost is 36 silver.]
Back to the present…
You wake to the squeaking of wheels upon axles as traders of the Red Bazaar begin hauling in their wares for the day. Grunts of giant reptiles mix with shouts from drivers and laughter of children. You rub your eyes and crack your jaws with a yawn; the Thundering Lizard is raucous on the quietest of nights and the revelry noise kept you from sleep for a bit last night.
You gather in the common room to break your fast. After a simple meal; Cimeri heads to Kaya's House of Repose.
@Cimeri:
Cimeri gathers her courage outside the very fancy inn with two goliath bouncers dressed in livery standing at the door. She's never seen a sillier sight of these two burly creatures stuffed into purple tunics bearing an image of a divan on the front, matching the sign above the door, but is still intimidated by the glares from the bouncers. She gulps and traipses past in her green dress (the yellow needs a bit of a cleaning…) and into the inn.
She's reminded a bit of the Merchant Prince's Villa and Syndra Silvane's mansion; 'Kaya', if that's a real person, seems to enjoy covering every surface with gaudy gold and silver paint. Marble columns and floors shine brightly amongst plush, velvet upholstered furniture, all the color purple, matching the livery of the servants who rush about. After slipping past the interrogations of a third doorman, a lizardfolk putting a monocle to his eye, she finds Somber Chord finishing a tune for a finely dressed half-orc and halfling consort.
"Purple One!" the grey furred Tabaxi plucks a wondering diminished chord as she speaks. "Somber Chord is delighted to see you! To what do I owe the honor?"
Meanwhile at the Thundering Lizard:
Benin the Barkeep speaks at you as he polishes tankards, seeing you passing the morning loitering about the common room. "Nothing on the agenda today, eh? Well… gonna be a 'Run' in the Old City at the next bell; some fool went and murdered a rival without getting a sanction from Merchant Prince Jessamine first. Should be a good one, folks say he looks quick. Maybe he'll make it. Also there's a matinee fight at the Arena. You could get to either if you hurry."
You discuss plans as Taman excuses himself and heads for the Temple of Savras.
@Taman:
Your stomach does backflips as you enter the Temple and are instantly greeted by Sister Picla; you're immediately seen and whisked away. Her face looks blank and she says nothing but motions you to follow; your breath comes harder as you try to keep up with her quick steps across the grand hall under the dome. Taking the same path as before you are brought to Grandfather Zitembe's quarters; he sits in the same place you left him, but he stands as you enter.
You bow before the venerable old man, who appears thoughtful. He paces slowly as he speaks.
"Cleric Taman, I'm sure you understand that Savras' guidance is… often left to much interpretation. The ritual was a success. The vision I received… was not pleasant. There was a heaviness to the vision… a heaviness I feel when something of great import is being divined. Savras is telling us to pay attention. There will be no further divining on this… what I saw was more than I usually see."
He pauses. "Savras showed me a jungle city far to the south, enclosed by cliffs and crawling with snakes. These were not snakes of nature; I believe Savras was telling me these snakes were evil, or magical, I cannot be certain. In the city was a black obelisk, covered in vines. The pure evil coming from the obelisk… I dared not delve deeper. Whatever you are searching for, this obelisk is central to finding it, as is the city." He frowns apologetically. "I know much of Chult… and I do not recognize this place. The snakes… it's not clear. There seemed to be no people living there… this is all I can tell you of this issue. Your god has sent you to me and Savras has sent me this vision… you must find this city. You must find this obelisk and this item you seek… something horribly evil is happening there…"
Sister Picla comes forward to lead you from the chamber.
What do you (all) do?
Fulcra, "Cimeri, why don't we go with you to the house of repose. We'll do a bit of browsing around the area while you meet whomever you're looking to meet, then all of us can walk around the city a bit. I"m not particularly into watching a theatrical execution, or a gladiatorial fight. Bryn, Celtra, sound ok? I think it's a good idea for us to stick together."
To Taman before he leaves, "We'll expect you to be back after lunch here so we can plan. Good luck my quiet friend."
If people are into that plan, after Cimeri's meeting, we'll start wandering around the city, exploring and hitting up any of the interesting sites in the city such (in order) : Temple of Tymora (Malar's throat), Fort Nyanzaru, Public Baths, Dye Works, then the Hall of Gold before heading back to meet Taman.
What's the difference between a Wizard and a Sorcerer?
Class.
Taman leaves the temple and seeks out the one guide who turned them down flat... Eku.
"I do not know why you refused to be our guide, but I wanted to pick your brain if you don't mind." He thinks she is most likely someone who he doesn't have to worry about bad feelings, and he wants a second opinion before he goes to Azaka with what he has found out.
"I would much appreciate it," agreed Cimeri, who was not that fond of idea wandering around still unknown city in order to meet with someone, she actually did not know. "I can not even explain why do I want to meet that bard. She seems to know a lot about what is going on around here. And the place is so overwhelming I still feel like I need a guide to cross the road. May be nothing will come of that talk, but I want to see her. I'll try to be quick"
The house of repose was surely impressive. Some might call excessive gilding/silvering a bad taste, but for a humble monk from a small village it looked incomprehensibly rich. The only thing she would personally object - the coloration. She began to feel like a piece of furniture and was relieved to find Somber Chord. "I am not sure why I came," admitted Cimeri from the start. "You said we can talk and there are things I do want to ask someone about. You see, my friends and I are going into the Jungle. There is a curse, sucking very soul from people, that we believe is affecting every land and source of it is somewhere on Chult. On the continent people are very concerned, yet here, at the origin of things, nobody seems to even understand what we are talking about. And yet again, yesterday there were armies of undead storming the gates. People reacted as if this was some part of natural order of things, that has nothing to do with any curse. I am confused and need someone explain to me what do you see here as "normal"? Why no one is worried about undead's invasion and so surprised we call it curse?" She tilted her head looking at Chord's reaction "Do my questions make any sense to you?"
Meili Liang Lvl 5 Monk
Dice
[OOC: After reading the below, which I'll open to everyone for sake of brevity, I'll need everyone but Taman and Cimeri to choose an alignment on their character sheet]
After asking Azaka where the guide Eku might be found (and calming her worries about going to a competitor), Taman heads to the Old City, one of the three areas of PN outside the city gates.
Three ancient, vine-covered ziggurats tower above the crumbling ward. The whole district is a juxtaposition of ancient and decaying (but still occupied) stone structures interspered with flimsy new huts and longhouses of bamboo and thatch. It's clear this is one of the areas where the middle and lower classes make their homes.
Passing under a rope bridge between two of the ziggurats and before the end of the stone-block trench dug into the ground know as Executioner's Run, you find Eku quietly passing out bread to young children, a smile on her face. She looks up as you approach, and her smile fades.
"Cleric of Azuth," she nods at you in acknowledgement. "What brings you outside the safe walls of the city?"
You answer as she continues breaking loaves of bread and handing them out.
"I thought I made it clear what my mission is," gesturing to the children, and at the crumbling walls of the Old City. "I do not get the impression from you or most of your troop that we share the same values. Convince me otherwise and perhaps I can answer some questions for you; you seem to me a Neutral man, but I do not yet see Good in you."
[For reference, Eku's handout is on Page 18, Post #357]
[@'The Others of youse']:
You all seem a bit out of place amidst the finery and well-dressed folk lounging about the open common area of Kaya's; more than one liveried servant raises an eyebrow as you track mud inside.
Somber Chord answers, "Ahhh…sense is made of your words, well, some of them." She shifts her weight, flicks her tail out of the way and rests her backside on the edge of a divan, daintily crossing her legs, lute across her lap.
"Let me begin by saying I am not from here, originally, so I do not know the minds of all Chultans. Regardless…I think Chultans know of this curse, all of us do, but none know how to stop this, yes? I would ask why you think it starts here in Chult, or why anyone would or should believe you. Do not suppose Chultans are obtuse or unhelpful, but to some ears your words would be preposterous or even threatening. Chultans have great pride in their land; they may not want to believe that horrible curses come from it." She arpeggiates a minor chord as she speaks.
"You are young, my friend. You want to move quickly; I sympathize, I really do. But I believe a wise cat once purred, 'A long journey starts with many small steps'. I am no longer an adventurer but did learn in my time seeking riches that preparation of mind, body, and equipment was essential. Beware anyone telling you otherwise. Should you find whatever evil is causing this, do you think you and your comrades would be equal to the task of taming it? Do not rush to certain death, Purple One."
"You mention the Scourge, the undead legions… I think people are more worried about these day to day attacks than the death curse. Common folk cannot afford a resurrection; death is death for them, so they seek to stay alive. Your words tell me you may be confused. The undead… the scourge… they are not caused by this death curse. They have been here… as long as I've been here, so at least ten years. Chultans do not like to talk overmuch about this, so I have not gotten the story. But the undead attacks… yes, commonplace. The riches of Chult that I found were in the areas of the jungles far from these undead; I am no cleric and had no desire to fight them. Have I answered your question? And how rude of me, who are your friends, and your name again?"
At this point, there's a disturbance at the door as one of the goliath bouncers ends an argument with a haughty human woman with a shaved pate but for a thin braided ponytail that starts at the nape of her neck. She wears more armor than most adventurers in Chult you've seen despite the heat but doesn't appear to sweat; her sunburned, pale skin is dry. Clearly a warrior of some kind, she bears an iron club on her belt, which she puts a hand on as she shoves past the goliath bouncer, followed by three nondescript Chultan natives in dark loincloths. She strides to Celtra and stands eye to eye with her, mere inches away.
"I need you to come with us. Merchant Prince Ifan Talro'a wants to see you regarding a racing Allosaurus."
Fulcra stands to address the warrior, "Celtra will of course attend with you to Prince Ifan. May we also escort her along side you?"
What's the difference between a Wizard and a Sorcerer?
Class.
Taman nods to the woman. "You are very wise." He says as he considers things. "A close friend of mine was laid low by the death curse that festers across the land." He informs her with a grave look. "I am leading the group you met in hopes of forestalling this curse from taking any more good people. We have heard that there is an evil artifact in these lands, called the soulmonger, which is working as a lich's philactory, but pulling in souls from across the entire world. I do not know what purpose such evil is being used for, but I would hope that any good-aligned person would be willing to help aid in the destruction of such an artifact. that is my goal and current mission." He goes on to explain what the elder of the temple told him of his vision, as well as the fact Azuth himself had contacted Taman in regard to this matter.
Celtra stares at this woman and frowns. "He wants to see me and he sent you and three others. That's hardly courteous." Turning to Fulcra she continues, "From the display it seems that hostile intent looms in our future."