Aubreck laughs. "A bargainer! Good to see some spirit in you, my boy. How about this: If you can recover my box, I'll throw in salvage rights to the whole thing - the ship, and everything in it. I just want my box back, intact."
The bard recognises Aubrecks tone. One of a final offer. Kei had heard this tone often, but it never normally fell in his favour. On the surface, this deal had.
Not waiting for the group's decision he holds out a hand. "You've got a deal Mr Aubreck."
Happy with his negotiation, he looks to the group. "So, we have a base of operations" nodding to Dwal "and now it seems we have the start of an armada. Not bad for a group of misfits". His thoughts go back to the ship that was commandeered by the Guard.
"Say, could we get this in writing? Our last naval conquest was promptly stripped from us by...let's say people undeserving of their station." He gives Aubreck an apologetic shrug.
"Of course," responds Aubreck. He fishes around in a drawer for pen, ink, and paper, and begins to draw up a document.
"I've hired a ship, Soul of Winter. The captain is Wolgar Windrune, impressive Dwarven fighter. Crew of thirty dwarves. Of course, they won't be boarding, unless you can invest a little money in their combat pay. I'm a bit light at the moment. Also supplies stocked if you need them: studded leather armor, crossbows, healers' kits, some other equipment."
"Dwarves on the open seas?"Dwal says a bit shocked. "I can't imagine that being a ship that could sink or be boarded,"he says with a bit of pride.
"Before we set a time to go do this job."Dwal says, then nods to Aubrck, "but it should be within the next couple of days, we should find out what happens at this council meeting and what they are going to want us to do next."
Dwal turns to Aubreck. "Since we are under contract we"Dwal side glances to Kei, "We are obligated to do this so rest assured we will but, we do need to tie up a few loose ends with the council on this matter of our last contract work. If'n that is agreeable with ye then I can agree with this arrangement."
”I am honor-bound to assist the people of Saltmarsh in their possible alliance with the Lizardfolk, Master Aubreck, so that must take priority for me when it comes to scheduling. It seems your mission will take at least 11 days, though time spent at sea can be unpredictable,” responds Gerrard.
“If I am needed for their effort anytime in the next 15 days, I will have to delay my participation in this mission...However, among the resources needed by the Lizardfolk are ships, weapons, and warriors. If someone were to pledge some support for this effort during the council meeting that is, unfortunately not available for two weeks, then that could affect the timing of the alliance with the Lizardfolk and free me up to participate in your quest almost immediately,” he adds, hoping the merchant will reconsider his participation in the negotiations at the council meeting.
Persuasion: 23
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Gerrard Feldren - Human Noble in Ghosts of Saltmarsh
Kerric Brightblade - Elven Warrior in "Apocalypse"
Peri is impressed with Kei's shrewd negotiation. 10,000 gold was more than he'd ever hoped to see, so it never would have occurred to him to do more than gawp. He'd been worried that Dwal would object to another trip to sea, but the mention of a dwarven crew seems to have swayed him. He's a bit taken aback by Gerrard's response. "We were only contracted by the Council to suss out the lizardfolks' intentions. We did even more, by bringin' 'em a potential alliance. How they deal with it, whether they pooch the whole deal -- that's the Town Council's concern now. I'm willin' to go to the council to speak on behalf of the alliance, because I think that's the best for everyone involved, but then I'm for findin' this ghost ship." Already his mind is turning over the possibilities 2000 gold could open up -- 2500 if Oceanus returns to his people with word of the alliance against the sahuagin. Not enough to buy his own ship, but a good start nonetheless. And if they can recover the Emperor... He'll have to be sure they load a spare mast and sails, and whatever rigging they might need... Maybe after the council business is done he'll talk to Mrs. Owland about the possibility of fronting them some gear for the refit. Yeah, it's good they have cooler heads to negotiate because Peri is nearly jumping up and down with eagerness. No more stinkin' swamps for me; I'll be back out on the wide-open sea!
Aubreck nods and smiles. "Well, I suppose you should find out about this Council business. I have no business with the lizardfolk, and little support to pledge, I'm afraid. Do hurry back, otherwise I will need to find some new agents, and I am so hoping you will be the champions I need."
He pushes the paper and pen toward you to sign, and raises his eyebrows hopefully. The paperwork is a simple contract: if you return his box intact and to his approval, he will grant you 10,000 gold and full salvage rights to the ship.
Looking to Peri, Gerrard asks, "Should we sign this now, or wait to see what the Council meeting brings, Master Fenwader? What do you think, Brother Fiercehammer? I am all for taking on this honorable task, as long as it doesn't conflict with our other commitments." He doesn't bother asking Kei, as he already shook the man's hand.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Gerrard Feldren - Human Noble in Ghosts of Saltmarsh
Kerric Brightblade - Elven Warrior in "Apocalypse"
"I don't know how your noblesse oblige works, but I'm just a sailor who's about to be discharged from his contract. I'll sign on now, and let the Council know they'll need some other errand boys for the next fortnight or so." Peri makes a great show of reading the contract, but if it's anything more than plain, simple Common he has no real idea what he's looking for. He nods, indicating the document meets his high standards, and signs his name Periwinkle Fenwader - Able Seaman.
Aubreck beams and nods vigorously. "Wonderful, wonderful. Do me a favor and send word to me tonight as to the outcome of the meeting. I can have the ship ready as soon as tomorrow morning if you're ready. Tell me if you need anything special. Every hour we delay is an hour some bottom-feeding salvager might seize the Emperor!"
He stands and offers you another mint before he shows you to the door.
Dwal speaks up, "All right" he says looking to his companions then to Aubreck. "I'll sign this but only if our conditions are met." Dwal will sign after Peri. Upon looking at Peri's signature he will say nothing.
After signing. Dwal will bow and say, "Ye have to excuse me, I have a bit of business ta take care of 'fore the council meeting."Dwal will turn and say to the party as he is leaving "I'll meet ye at the council, I got to inspect the quarters we had built. I'd like to be moved in 'fore we set out on anythin' else." With that Dwal will leave and make his way back to the village and the carpenter's that he paid to fix up the two cottages. If he finds them he will see about the progress and with any luck, if they are done.
"Come on Bjorn: he will say to his pet dragon, "We got lots to do 'fore we can rest this evenin'."
"Assuming all goes well at the council meeting, I will sign in the morning, Master Aubreck," says Gerrard. Having had some experience with matters of state as the Duke's son, though he much preferred to be out in the practice yard or riding the trails, Gerrard knew that the logistics of an operation to help the lizardfolk might take weeks or longer, no matter how eager the participants were for progress--if even Saltmarsh were willing to help. With the rest of his group all in for the sea voyage, though, Gerrard could help the Lizardfolk precious little on his own. Hopefully, the elders of Saltmarsh could see the wisdom of gaining a neighbor as an ally, as it would be a long-term boon for the entire kingdom--not just the alliance, of course, but the attitude of nation building through making friends as opposed to insular individualism.
Lost in his thoughts for the moment, Gerrard follows after Dwal, spending the afternoon helping move the items as needed into their new dwelling. "If I haven't told you before, Brother Fiercehammer, I am greatly appreciative for your work in securing these dwellings and making them habitable. Have you considered naming our new homeplace?"
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Gerrard Feldren - Human Noble in Ghosts of Saltmarsh
Kerric Brightblade - Elven Warrior in "Apocalypse"
Dwal will wait for Gerrard to catch up then walk with him, letting Bjorn go as he wishes to hunt or do whatever small dragons do.
"Nay lad." he responds to the question. "I planned on waitin' fer the group ta get together and see what they wish to call it. I planned on conducting a ceremony to dedicate the land and buildings, ta ward off evil and the like, just in case." Dwal pauses for a moment. "I don't see us stayin' here too long though lad." Dwal says thoughtfully. "Too close to pryin' eyes and the ocean fer my likin'. I thought, once we get enough money together, we might try and purchase that old manor house that we was in when we first got to this place but, now that I know about the Dwarven Fort close by, I mean ta retake it an' give the local kin a foothold in the area." Dwal says.
Dwal pauses a moment then says to Gerrard. "Then there's the matter of yer nobility, rights, an' yer lady. I ain't forgot about that either. We got to get ye back to yer kin and make sure ye ain't left out in tha cold. Plus I ain't never seen any noble that ain't got enemies after 'em." Dwal says the last and gives a sidelong glance at Gerrard, gauging his reaction if he can.
"Then there's the matter of Qivys."he continues. "He up an' disappeared after an odd night. I don't like it an' I'm suspicious about it all, especially since we had them run ins with Pirates."
Dwal travels on. 'That reminds me. One of ye, I think it might have been the halfling, mentioned something about coming up with a name fer our little group. " he says. "I've been thinkin' on it and I agree. It'll be good fer business if'n we have a name that folks can identify with. What that name should be, I haven't figured that one out yet."
It is mid-afternoon. The sun is low in the winter sky, peeking out occasionally between laden clouds. You still have a couple of hours before the Council meeting.
Dwal checks on the cottages. They are ready to occupy, if basic and sparse. Stoves, beds, tables, benches, some built-in storage. You could use some blankets and fuel - all readily available at the green market. (Both at negligible cost and/or can be rolled into daily living expenses.) The crabs are completely gone, although there is evidence of rats in the dirt yard.
Does Gerrard, Kei, or Peri have any business they want to attend to before the Council meeting at sunset?
Gerrard moves all his possessions into his room in their cottage, getting everything settled. He helps Dwal with whatever else needs to be moved in as well, speaking a few words in conversation as they go along.
"Truth be told, Brother Fiercehammer, I am not well-known enough to have personal enemies, though anyone who is a foe of the Duke would see me as such by extension. So far, we have managed to not make an enemy of the Lizardfolk, and hopefully that will continue. You have been a friend and ally, and I will support you in all the causes you have mentioned, though I do not have any idea where to start looking for Master Qivys," he says.
Taking out the golden rose, Gerrard looks at it longingly and says, "Ah, yes, the fair Lady Esmerelda. She knows of my family, surely, but little of me personally. I was smitten by her beauty, her lovely voice, her generous...ah, nevermind." Reddening slightly, he continues, "I have said that she tends to favor the dashing adventuring types, and I have found that I am enjoying the transformation into such a person--for myself as well as to be a more appropriate match for her."
Gerrard's face darkens as he continues, "Unfortunately, her family and mine have had a rocky relationship through the generations, and it has gotten recently worse. Though not outright war, the wounds are deep and the grudges are long-standing. My father would never approve of my courtship, which was why I was riding alone when I was ambushed by the ogre," he adds. "Perhaps someday I will be able to pay her court and woo her with the tales of our adventures, and the two of us can help our families to reconcile," he finishes hopefully.
OOC: Gerrard's Bond: "I am in love with the heir of a family that my family despises."
Gerrard will clean himself up and dress in his formal noble's attire for the council meeting.
Peri heads back to the Wicker Goat to gather his effects, beaming with good humor at the thought of their next mission. Open sea, a frankly ridiculous bounty, and maybe even the opportunity to get our own ship, though she'll likely need some expensive repairs and we won't be putting her to sea any time soon. But still, Captain Fenwader...? It was a lark, playin' at captain to bring the smugglers' ship to port, but what might it be like to command an entire ship and her crew, day in and day out?
Before going upstairs he grabs a pint and speaks to Lankus to get a recommendation for a trustworthy housekeeper to mind their cottages while they're away (though he doesn't mention that they may be departing as early as tomorrow). "This adventurin' life is unpredictable, so even we won't know our comin's and goin's sometimes. And they have to be a good cook! If we're ever able to round up some good ingredients, I want someone who'll know what to do with 'em." He'll also see if he can get some brewer's supplies from Lankus. "I'll take second hand if it's what's available, anythin' you're not usin' any more.We might could be here a while, so I figure I oughtta take up a hobby. And don't worry; I won't go stealin' your customers away! Personal use only." He winks to let the innkeeper know he's joking. He knows it'll take a few batches to get up to Lankus's standards. He pays for the brewer's kit (if Lankus can provide one) and gives the man an extra gold piece for a tip. "You're one of the good ones, boyo, and there's scant few we've met here. Say... you don't happen to know where Captain Sal hangs out, do you?"
He moves his stuff into an unclaimed bedroom -- no preference for which -- and meets up with the others to go to the Council meeting.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Dwal
During the time before the meeting, Dwal will sort out what little he owns and move them to Cottage A. He will set Bjorn's nest up and then inspect the handiwork of what has been done on the cottages. Investigation: 11
Dwal will also look into where he can improve and make a list of things he wants to improve on and do his own estimating of the costs.
As the others move in Dwal will hold a Dwarven Ceremony for dedicating a home and mark the doors with Dwarven Runes. Dwal will also say a few things to the party here and there:
"I think I can build upon what we have here and create a respectable Longhouse out of the two. Giving us a common room along with our places to rest." "I'll start designing shelves for our little museum." "I'll start sorting out how to create a vault for gold and more valuable items to be stored that we can carry on ourselves." "We will need a bath of some sort as well. And an outhouse." Are just some of the things he will say.
Once everyone else starts getting ready Dwal will use Prestidigitation to clean his clothing and himself. He will change into leather boots, blue leggings, a kilt of his family colors, a long-sleeved shirt with a jacket. He will carry his gear in the Bag of Holding, wearing the headband-a bit nonsensical to his liking (most of these crafters lack the proper sense when it comes to crafting items) and carry his staff with him. He will have Bjorn with him, resting on Dwal's shoulders.
During the Council meeting, Dwal will remain silent, letting the others speak for the group but paying attention to all that attend.
Lankus has an affordable employee lined up for you - his name is Armand, and he can cook and maintain the household for one gold per day. He can start tomorrow.
Lankus is a little reluctant to part with brewing supplies, but he is appreciative of the party's service during the gnoll raid. "Please don't put me out of business," he requests. Captain Sal is an occasional customer - she comes by once a week or so. He doesn't know when she'll be around next.
The houses look quite sturdy - the carpenters appear to have done a very good job - solid construction, if without much finesse.
Your houses are the two green-roofed ones next to the "24". The red roofed one to the west (down) is in complete ruins. The one to the east (up) is abandoned but standing, but has an unwholesome look to it. #23 is the Carpenters’ Guildhall, run by the gnome Jilar Kanklesten, from whom you hired your house carpenters.
The sun is setting. It is time for the Council meeting.
Once again you pass the weatherbeaten gallows and into the large brick building in the center of town, up the wide stairs and into the old Council Chamber. The five Town Council members are again assembled behind the long bench: Eda Owland, Gellan Primwater, Eliander Farbern, Manistrad Copperlocks, and Anders Salomar. Garurt and Vyth are seated nearby, warily eyeing their surroundings. The rest of the chamber is empty. Owland gives a signal to the elderly guard, and the proceedings begin.
The Council is impressed and appreciative of the party's work, explains Owland. Furthermore, the Council recognizes the party’s role in the negotiation of an agreement with the lizardfolk, and is prepared to deliver on the gold they were promised: 700 gp. The old guard formally delivers a sack to Dwal. They have also agreed to release the weapons cache to Garurt and Vyth, and to make amends for the death of one of their comrades and the disappearance of the other. Clearly much discussion and negotiation has taken place in the past day. But there seems to be no signs of dissent among the council members.
The lizardfolk duo has clearly been well received by the Council, and an alliance has been unanimously agreed to regarding the sahuagin. Oweland reviews the situation: The lizardfolk are preparing to go to war against the aggressive horde that a year ago drove them from their ancestral home, and they have invited the town to join in the attack on the sahuagin fortress. Alliances have already been negotiated against the sahuagin with the merfolk and the locathah. The town seems agreeable to assist in the attack, as they all feel the chilling threat of the sahuagin.
The council may soon offer to hire the characters one more time, Owland explains — to launch an attack on the sahuagin forces and explore their fortress. But first they are awaiting reinforcements from Seaton. They have already sent an envoy to Seaton to discuss the situation with Duke Marik Feldren, governor of the southern province (and near relative to Gerrard.) They anticipate it will be several weeks at least before an attack may be attempted.
The Council continues to be concerned about the gnoll attack as well, and the bizarre and hostile antics of the Priest of Xolor. In addition, they are concerned about the billowing smoke seen recently rising from Abbey Isle, known to be inhabited for decades by a cult of evil clerics who are believed to do business with the Sea Princes and other pirates. Whether they are connected with Xolor, or whether the smoke is good news or bad, is yet unknown.
"Saltmarsh is much obliged," concludes Owland. "We appreciate your continued assistance in these matters."
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
To post a comment, please login or register a new account.
Aubreck laughs. "A bargainer! Good to see some spirit in you, my boy. How about this: If you can recover my box, I'll throw in salvage rights to the whole thing - the ship, and everything in it. I just want my box back, intact."
Kei
The bard recognises Aubrecks tone. One of a final offer. Kei had heard this tone often, but it never normally fell in his favour. On the surface, this deal had.
Not waiting for the group's decision he holds out a hand. "You've got a deal Mr Aubreck."
Happy with his negotiation, he looks to the group. "So, we have a base of operations" nodding to Dwal "and now it seems we have the start of an armada. Not bad for a group of misfits". His thoughts go back to the ship that was commandeered by the Guard.
"Say, could we get this in writing? Our last naval conquest was promptly stripped from us by...let's say people undeserving of their station." He gives Aubreck an apologetic shrug.
"Of course," responds Aubreck. He fishes around in a drawer for pen, ink, and paper, and begins to draw up a document.
"I've hired a ship, Soul of Winter. The captain is Wolgar Windrune, impressive Dwarven fighter. Crew of thirty dwarves. Of course, they won't be boarding, unless you can invest a little money in their combat pay. I'm a bit light at the moment. Also supplies stocked if you need them: studded leather armor, crossbows, healers' kits, some other equipment."
"When can you depart?"
Dwal
"Dwarves on the open seas?" Dwal says a bit shocked. "I can't imagine that being a ship that could sink or be boarded," he says with a bit of pride.
"Before we set a time to go do this job." Dwal says, then nods to Aubrck, "but it should be within the next couple of days, we should find out what happens at this council meeting and what they are going to want us to do next."
Dwal turns to Aubreck. "Since we are under contract we" Dwal side glances to Kei, "We are obligated to do this so rest assured we will but, we do need to tie up a few loose ends with the council on this matter of our last contract work. If'n that is agreeable with ye then I can agree with this arrangement."
Gerrard:
”I am honor-bound to assist the people of Saltmarsh in their possible alliance with the Lizardfolk, Master Aubreck, so that must take priority for me when it comes to scheduling. It seems your mission will take at least 11 days, though time spent at sea can be unpredictable,” responds Gerrard.
“If I am needed for their effort anytime in the next 15 days, I will have to delay my participation in this mission...However, among the resources needed by the Lizardfolk are ships, weapons, and warriors. If someone were to pledge some support for this effort during the council meeting that is, unfortunately not available for two weeks, then that could affect the timing of the alliance with the Lizardfolk and free me up to participate in your quest almost immediately,” he adds, hoping the merchant will reconsider his participation in the negotiations at the council meeting.
Persuasion: 23
Gerrard Feldren - Human Noble in Ghosts of Saltmarsh
Kerric Brightblade - Elven Warrior in "Apocalypse"
Peri:
Peri is impressed with Kei's shrewd negotiation. 10,000 gold was more than he'd ever hoped to see, so it never would have occurred to him to do more than gawp. He'd been worried that Dwal would object to another trip to sea, but the mention of a dwarven crew seems to have swayed him. He's a bit taken aback by Gerrard's response. "We were only contracted by the Council to suss out the lizardfolks' intentions. We did even more, by bringin' 'em a potential alliance. How they deal with it, whether they pooch the whole deal -- that's the Town Council's concern now. I'm willin' to go to the council to speak on behalf of the alliance, because I think that's the best for everyone involved, but then I'm for findin' this ghost ship." Already his mind is turning over the possibilities 2000 gold could open up -- 2500 if Oceanus returns to his people with word of the alliance against the sahuagin. Not enough to buy his own ship, but a good start nonetheless. And if they can recover the Emperor... He'll have to be sure they load a spare mast and sails, and whatever rigging they might need... Maybe after the council business is done he'll talk to Mrs. Owland about the possibility of fronting them some gear for the refit. Yeah, it's good they have cooler heads to negotiate because Peri is nearly jumping up and down with eagerness. No more stinkin' swamps for me; I'll be back out on the wide-open sea!
Aubreck nods and smiles. "Well, I suppose you should find out about this Council business. I have no business with the lizardfolk, and little support to pledge, I'm afraid. Do hurry back, otherwise I will need to find some new agents, and I am so hoping you will be the champions I need."
He pushes the paper and pen toward you to sign, and raises his eyebrows hopefully. The paperwork is a simple contract: if you return his box intact and to his approval, he will grant you 10,000 gold and full salvage rights to the ship.
Dwal
Dwal will nod to Aubreck then turn to go. He will only go a few steps before he stops and waits on the rest of the party.
Gerrard:
Looking to Peri, Gerrard asks, "Should we sign this now, or wait to see what the Council meeting brings, Master Fenwader? What do you think, Brother Fiercehammer? I am all for taking on this honorable task, as long as it doesn't conflict with our other commitments." He doesn't bother asking Kei, as he already shook the man's hand.
Gerrard Feldren - Human Noble in Ghosts of Saltmarsh
Kerric Brightblade - Elven Warrior in "Apocalypse"
Peri:
"I don't know how your noblesse oblige works, but I'm just a sailor who's about to be discharged from his contract. I'll sign on now, and let the Council know they'll need some other errand boys for the next fortnight or so." Peri makes a great show of reading the contract, but if it's anything more than plain, simple Common he has no real idea what he's looking for. He nods, indicating the document meets his high standards, and signs his name Periwinkle Fenwader - Able Seaman.
Aubreck beams and nods vigorously. "Wonderful, wonderful. Do me a favor and send word to me tonight as to the outcome of the meeting. I can have the ship ready as soon as tomorrow morning if you're ready. Tell me if you need anything special. Every hour we delay is an hour some bottom-feeding salvager might seize the Emperor!"
He stands and offers you another mint before he shows you to the door.
Dwal
Dwal speaks up, "All right" he says looking to his companions then to Aubreck. "I'll sign this but only if our conditions are met."
Dwal will sign after Peri. Upon looking at Peri's signature he will say nothing.
After signing. Dwal will bow and say, "Ye have to excuse me, I have a bit of business ta take care of 'fore the council meeting." Dwal will turn and say to the party as he is leaving "I'll meet ye at the council, I got to inspect the quarters we had built. I'd like to be moved in 'fore we set out on anythin' else."
With that Dwal will leave and make his way back to the village and the carpenter's that he paid to fix up the two cottages. If he finds them he will see about the progress and with any luck, if they are done.
"Come on Bjorn: he will say to his pet dragon, "We got lots to do 'fore we can rest this evenin'."
Gerrard:
"Assuming all goes well at the council meeting, I will sign in the morning, Master Aubreck," says Gerrard. Having had some experience with matters of state as the Duke's son, though he much preferred to be out in the practice yard or riding the trails, Gerrard knew that the logistics of an operation to help the lizardfolk might take weeks or longer, no matter how eager the participants were for progress--if even Saltmarsh were willing to help. With the rest of his group all in for the sea voyage, though, Gerrard could help the Lizardfolk precious little on his own. Hopefully, the elders of Saltmarsh could see the wisdom of gaining a neighbor as an ally, as it would be a long-term boon for the entire kingdom--not just the alliance, of course, but the attitude of nation building through making friends as opposed to insular individualism.
Lost in his thoughts for the moment, Gerrard follows after Dwal, spending the afternoon helping move the items as needed into their new dwelling. "If I haven't told you before, Brother Fiercehammer, I am greatly appreciative for your work in securing these dwellings and making them habitable. Have you considered naming our new homeplace?"
Gerrard Feldren - Human Noble in Ghosts of Saltmarsh
Kerric Brightblade - Elven Warrior in "Apocalypse"
Dwal
Dwal will wait for Gerrard to catch up then walk with him, letting Bjorn go as he wishes to hunt or do whatever small dragons do.
"Nay lad." he responds to the question. "I planned on waitin' fer the group ta get together and see what they wish to call it. I planned on conducting a ceremony to dedicate the land and buildings, ta ward off evil and the like, just in case."
Dwal pauses for a moment. "I don't see us stayin' here too long though lad." Dwal says thoughtfully. "Too close to pryin' eyes and the ocean fer my likin'. I thought, once we get enough money together, we might try and purchase that old manor house that we was in when we first got to this place but, now that I know about the Dwarven Fort close by, I mean ta retake it an' give the local kin a foothold in the area." Dwal says.
Dwal pauses a moment then says to Gerrard. "Then there's the matter of yer nobility, rights, an' yer lady. I ain't forgot about that either. We got to get ye back to yer kin and make sure ye ain't left out in tha cold. Plus I ain't never seen any noble that ain't got enemies after 'em." Dwal says the last and gives a sidelong glance at Gerrard, gauging his reaction if he can.
"Then there's the matter of Qivys." he continues. "He up an' disappeared after an odd night. I don't like it an' I'm suspicious about it all, especially since we had them run ins with Pirates."
Dwal travels on. 'That reminds me. One of ye, I think it might have been the halfling, mentioned something about coming up with a name fer our little group. " he says. "I've been thinkin' on it and I agree. It'll be good fer business if'n we have a name that folks can identify with. What that name should be, I haven't figured that one out yet."
It is mid-afternoon. The sun is low in the winter sky, peeking out occasionally between laden clouds. You still have a couple of hours before the Council meeting.
Dwal checks on the cottages. They are ready to occupy, if basic and sparse. Stoves, beds, tables, benches, some built-in storage. You could use some blankets and fuel - all readily available at the green market. (Both at negligible cost and/or can be rolled into daily living expenses.) The crabs are completely gone, although there is evidence of rats in the dirt yard.
Does Gerrard, Kei, or Peri have any business they want to attend to before the Council meeting at sunset?
Gerrard:
Gerrard moves all his possessions into his room in their cottage, getting everything settled. He helps Dwal with whatever else needs to be moved in as well, speaking a few words in conversation as they go along.
"Truth be told, Brother Fiercehammer, I am not well-known enough to have personal enemies, though anyone who is a foe of the Duke would see me as such by extension. So far, we have managed to not make an enemy of the Lizardfolk, and hopefully that will continue. You have been a friend and ally, and I will support you in all the causes you have mentioned, though I do not have any idea where to start looking for Master Qivys," he says.
Taking out the golden rose, Gerrard looks at it longingly and says, "Ah, yes, the fair Lady Esmerelda. She knows of my family, surely, but little of me personally. I was smitten by her beauty, her lovely voice, her generous...ah, nevermind." Reddening slightly, he continues, "I have said that she tends to favor the dashing adventuring types, and I have found that I am enjoying the transformation into such a person--for myself as well as to be a more appropriate match for her."
Gerrard's face darkens as he continues, "Unfortunately, her family and mine have had a rocky relationship through the generations, and it has gotten recently worse. Though not outright war, the wounds are deep and the grudges are long-standing. My father would never approve of my courtship, which was why I was riding alone when I was ambushed by the ogre," he adds. "Perhaps someday I will be able to pay her court and woo her with the tales of our adventures, and the two of us can help our families to reconcile," he finishes hopefully.
OOC: Gerrard's Bond: "I am in love with the heir of a family that my family despises."
Gerrard will clean himself up and dress in his formal noble's attire for the council meeting.
Gerrard Feldren - Human Noble in Ghosts of Saltmarsh
Kerric Brightblade - Elven Warrior in "Apocalypse"
Peri:
Peri heads back to the Wicker Goat to gather his effects, beaming with good humor at the thought of their next mission. Open sea, a frankly ridiculous bounty, and maybe even the opportunity to get our own ship, though she'll likely need some expensive repairs and we won't be putting her to sea any time soon. But still, Captain Fenwader...? It was a lark, playin' at captain to bring the smugglers' ship to port, but what might it be like to command an entire ship and her crew, day in and day out?
Before going upstairs he grabs a pint and speaks to Lankus to get a recommendation for a trustworthy housekeeper to mind their cottages while they're away (though he doesn't mention that they may be departing as early as tomorrow). "This adventurin' life is unpredictable, so even we won't know our comin's and goin's sometimes. And they have to be a good cook! If we're ever able to round up some good ingredients, I want someone who'll know what to do with 'em." He'll also see if he can get some brewer's supplies from Lankus. "I'll take second hand if it's what's available, anythin' you're not usin' any more.We might could be here a while, so I figure I oughtta take up a hobby. And don't worry; I won't go stealin' your customers away! Personal use only." He winks to let the innkeeper know he's joking. He knows it'll take a few batches to get up to Lankus's standards. He pays for the brewer's kit (if Lankus can provide one) and gives the man an extra gold piece for a tip. "You're one of the good ones, boyo, and there's scant few we've met here. Say... you don't happen to know where Captain Sal hangs out, do you?"
He moves his stuff into an unclaimed bedroom -- no preference for which -- and meets up with the others to go to the Council meeting.
Dwal
During the time before the meeting, Dwal will sort out what little he owns and move them to Cottage A. He will set Bjorn's nest up and then inspect the handiwork of what has been done on the cottages.
Investigation: 11
Dwal will also look into where he can improve and make a list of things he wants to improve on and do his own estimating of the costs.
As the others move in Dwal will hold a Dwarven Ceremony for dedicating a home and mark the doors with Dwarven Runes. Dwal will also say a few things to the party here and there:
"I think I can build upon what we have here and create a respectable Longhouse out of the two. Giving us a common room along with our places to rest."
"I'll start designing shelves for our little museum."
"I'll start sorting out how to create a vault for gold and more valuable items to be stored that we can carry on ourselves."
"We will need a bath of some sort as well. And an outhouse."
Are just some of the things he will say.
Once everyone else starts getting ready Dwal will use Prestidigitation to clean his clothing and himself.
He will change into leather boots, blue leggings, a kilt of his family colors, a long-sleeved shirt with a jacket. He will carry his gear in the Bag of Holding, wearing the headband-a bit nonsensical to his liking (most of these crafters lack the proper sense when it comes to crafting items) and carry his staff with him. He will have Bjorn with him, resting on Dwal's shoulders.
During the Council meeting, Dwal will remain silent, letting the others speak for the group but paying attention to all that attend.
Lankus has an affordable employee lined up for you - his name is Armand, and he can cook and maintain the household for one gold per day. He can start tomorrow.
Lankus is a little reluctant to part with brewing supplies, but he is appreciative of the party's service during the gnoll raid. "Please don't put me out of business," he requests.
Captain Sal is an occasional customer - she comes by once a week or so. He doesn't know when she'll be around next.
The houses look quite sturdy - the carpenters appear to have done a very good job - solid construction, if without much finesse.
Your houses are the two green-roofed ones next to the "24". The red roofed one to the west (down) is in complete ruins. The one to the east (up) is abandoned but standing, but has an unwholesome look to it. #23 is the Carpenters’ Guildhall, run by the gnome Jilar Kanklesten, from whom you hired your house carpenters.
The sun is setting. It is time for the Council meeting.
Once again you pass the weatherbeaten gallows and into the large brick building in the center of town, up the wide stairs and into the old Council Chamber. The five Town Council members are again assembled behind the long bench: Eda Owland, Gellan Primwater, Eliander Farbern, Manistrad Copperlocks, and Anders Salomar. Garurt and Vyth are seated nearby, warily eyeing their surroundings. The rest of the chamber is empty. Owland gives a signal to the elderly guard, and the proceedings begin.
The Council is impressed and appreciative of the party's work, explains Owland. Furthermore, the Council recognizes the party’s role in the negotiation of an agreement with the lizardfolk, and is prepared to deliver on the gold they were promised: 700 gp. The old guard formally delivers a sack to Dwal. They have also agreed to release the weapons cache to Garurt and Vyth, and to make amends for the death of one of their comrades and the disappearance of the other. Clearly much discussion and negotiation has taken place in the past day. But there seems to be no signs of dissent among the council members.
The lizardfolk duo has clearly been well received by the Council, and an alliance has been unanimously agreed to regarding the sahuagin. Oweland reviews the situation: The lizardfolk are preparing to go to war against the aggressive horde that a year ago drove them from their ancestral home, and they have invited the town to join in the attack on the sahuagin fortress. Alliances have already been negotiated against the sahuagin with the merfolk and the locathah. The town seems agreeable to assist in the attack, as they all feel the chilling threat of the sahuagin.
The council may soon offer to hire the characters one more time, Owland explains — to launch an attack on the sahuagin forces and explore their fortress. But first they are awaiting reinforcements from Seaton. They have already sent an envoy to Seaton to discuss the situation with Duke Marik Feldren, governor of the southern province (and near relative to Gerrard.) They anticipate it will be several weeks at least before an attack may be attempted.
The Council continues to be concerned about the gnoll attack as well, and the bizarre and hostile antics of the Priest of Xolor. In addition, they are concerned about the billowing smoke seen recently rising from Abbey Isle, known to be inhabited for decades by a cult of evil clerics who are believed to do business with the Sea Princes and other pirates. Whether they are connected with Xolor, or whether the smoke is good news or bad, is yet unknown.
"Saltmarsh is much obliged," concludes Owland. "We appreciate your continued assistance in these matters."