"So. There is a library here, but it's only likely a small few tomes," he gestures over to the small building of the Faith. "But, no, I don't think anyone is going to research insane theories or out themself as a cultist to be run out of town."
He scratches his trunk a few times. "Although, I am no longer sure if your statement means you wish to duel to the death or not."
Back inside the home...
Abigail you make your way into the kitchen. It's a cluttered mess, and very warm. People coming and going. Taking small little pastries out of the ovens and placing them down on tables to cool. It looking like some kind of next round of food for the people, tiny meat pies and other savory treats. A back door leads outside where a handful of people go out to get a breath of cooler air before coming back inside. The Hobgoblin you saw earlier is in here, directing the flow of traffic. Tasting and inspecting the food before it goes out. Letting people know what plates and platters to use compared to the others. A large vault door sits along one wall - probably where the silver is kept - a slightly omnipresent feel to it.
The Hobgoblin looks over at you, a bit of a surprised expression that you're here. "Yes, Good Madam? Can I help you with something? Lost? Needing a special request?"
Meanwhile, the Matron of the house lets a smile creep from the corner of her lips. "I had heard the crew was rather skilled. I'm glad your skills are worthwhile." She begins to stroll towards one of the doors that leads down, a guard stepping out of he way. "Captain Rollo, please come..." she glances around. Not seeing the cat anywhere. "collect your crew then meet me downstairs so we can talk business."
Rollo lets out a bit of a frustrated sigh, "Someone go get Abigail. We should likely all be together if we're going to die in a cellar or hear a pitch."
Once gathered, the downstairs is cold but spacious. Carved stone hallways leading to small offices and other chambers. The Matron meets you in what seems to be a large meeting hall. The room only lit by a few candles that stand on a circular table. The middle of the table hollowed out; a cauldren there with some kind of bubbling brew rising out of it. It stinks of clay and spoiled turnips.
The shadows seem to move and dance. And you all can't help but to get the feeling that something is watching, despite not seeing anything.
"I am seeking a crew to get a package. This package was intercepted by authorities, but reclaimed. We need a crew to take the package, and bring it somewhere secure. The package is not alive, nor is it contraband in all the Kingdoms. Just where it's currently needing to be smuggled out of. The authorities are likely continuing their search, and a crew who can get somewhere fast is of the greatest importance," she reaches into her pocket, and tosses out a few items of jewelry.
Abigail, as a pirate you're able to quickly size them up. From the gemstones to their unique design, each of the items is easily worth a few thousand gold. "This is proof of what you can expect as payment. But I would expect to give a zero to your likely assessment of their worth. If all goes well." She reaches back over, grabbing the jewelry and again placing it in her pocket. "Information is only for those who accept the job. But I will answer whatever basic questions you may have. Go ahead and talk among yourselves."
Rollo pulls the crew that's here into a huddle. "All of us count on this one. Sounds illegal, but that kind of coin is hard to ignore. I will say, this is the best lead I currently have... outside a handful of small ticket ferry items. But anything this big, I need buy. So what say you?"
Mr. Firmin gives a nod of yes, his eyes clearly set on the idea of gaining that amount of riches.
Windhook Crew, what questions do you ask? How do you vote?
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Tarak looks at the Matron. “I would like to know where the item is illegal. Will we be staying close by? I personally have a task to accomplish in the area tomorrow but then as long as the group agrees I will be available to take the job.” While waiting for her reply Tarak will try to spot the hidden watcher.
Morgan sighs, "Of course not. It's never easy. And no I don't want to duel you. I'm just saying it would be easier... I don't think I'm going to make any headway here, I need a place either more cosmopolitan or more cultist underground-y... Ugh. fine... Hey I just lost a boat load of money, you want to commit some crimes? I'll split it with you 50/50."
The Matron gives a bit of a shrug to the second part of the question. "I have no issues with how much time it takes you to accomplish the objective. Last I heard, the package was secure. But if that has changed, I wouldn't know. However you and your crew mates were clever enough to see through a rouse. So I expect your deduction skills are enough to figure out the next steps if required. But where it is currently being held, the item is considered illegal. You'll have to get it, and get the contraband out."
The Loxodon gives out a laugh. "So, my name and stature here in town does not permit me from doing crime and stealing from my neighbors. I will have to ask you not to as well. That being said, since your friends haven't come back here yet, I expect things to be going well. And they are likely being asked to commit crimes for money. Just... not here...." he gives a broad gesture of the town, before giving Morgan a brief rundown on the smuggling operation.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Back at the kitchen - Abigail peers at the hobgoblin, debating if she should say anything about being followed, but decides to return to the mission at hand. "Actually, since you asked. I am having a bit of a rough day... off my game, so to speak. You would not happen to have anything stronger to drink?"
In the smelly bunker of doom - "The legality of the item does not matter to me so much as its purpose. Is this item going to be utilized in oppressing of destroying women and children?"
Back in the kitchen, the Hobgoblin does give a bit of a laugh. He pulls out a deep reddish container that has a few floating cherries (and similar 'sour' berries). "The house Ginjinha," he says as he pours it into a glass tumbler. Normally the drink is taken as a shot, slowly sipped, but here he seems to be giving Abigail a triple. A few of the berries bobbing around as he puts the large container away and gets back to work. It isn't necessarily the strongest thing in the world, but packs more of a punch than your standard wine or beer. The house batch is.. fair. Likely fresher and will continue to fortify and enhance in flavor over time.
Downstairs.... the Matron shakes her head. "No, that is not its intended use." You find her difficult to read and follow up on the 'intended use," but she does seem honest about it at the very least.
Captain Rollo gives a nod, hearing both Lafetha, Abigail and Firmin confirm that they would take the job. "You have a deal," he says as he puts a arm on Tarak. A small nod to him, affirming that he won't leave the Paladin stranded in town on his own mission, especially after hearing the Matron state she doesn't care on the timeline.
The Matron (and to a less detailed extent, the Loxodon Warlock by Morgan) fill in the crew...
Let me start at the beginning. I am asking you to obtain written documents, and escape to another location with them. The writer has been passing information along in secret, but, some of the local authorities have begun to pick up on how we are slipping the information through. Because of this, the most recent documents were intercepted.
The last contact I had, they were in the Patnada Region of Loxodon controlled Unity. A area called Yēkhānē nadīra śēṣa haẏa, or "Where the River Ends" for those that do not speak Loxodon. Our contact is likely in one of the surrounding villages of that area. A gnome of golden yellow eyes. The authorities that, in this case you might have to deal with, are a Fraternal Order known as the Ash Guards.
Once you have the documents, head to the Tri-River City of Ossus. (This is the city where you recruited Tarak, and spend some time) There, deliver the information to a Ms. Aly Charstone. You will likely find her at the Ossian News. From there, follow instructions to receive your payment."
Both the crew with the Matron, and the Warlock, wait for any possible questions.
What do you do?
(Some ideas! Nature to know anything about the Patnada Region. History to know anything about the Ash Guard, or Loxodon Unity. Insight to the person telling you the info. Arcana & Religion will only give cultural clues / historical insight to the region, but not any information on specifics)
Morgan sighs, "No they don't want to do crimes with me either... It ... it sucks. You want to know something really messed up? You're the closest thing I've had to a friend outside of work and I literally had to pay you not to kill me. This place where the river ends, is there a particular face I should wear that might get me preferred treatment." To Prove their point they cycle through several disguises selves. "Are the Ash guards actively looking for people like us or do are they just local law enforcement? Whats the best way of avoiding/pleasantly getting past them? Does the gnome contact hiding or if we can't find them can we ask around to find them? Is there any like 'gotcha!' things happening there. There was this one time a naked elf lady got mad at us when her gators attacked us, we had a whole thing, it was a mess, I had to give her me extensive dagger collection. Anything like that we should avoid?"
The Matron shakes her head. "I've only heard stories of a crazed old hermit who lives in the woods some odd hours from here. But I tend to be too busy to listen to stories of a person living in the wilds."
The crew, hearing her, believe she's telling the truth and does not have any information on the subject.
Nature <10
Well... it's called where the river ends. So there probably isn't a river anymore.
Nature <15
The Patnada region is a series of tributatires and shallow land that has been irragated to grow rice, and similar plants that can handle the higher amount of standing water.
Nature 17
The Patnada region is a series of tributatires and shallow land that has been irragated to grow rice, and similar plants that can handle the higher amount of standing water. The ground itself is rather rocky, making navigating around dangerous and why a good portion of your journey will have to go out on foot once reaching the best docking location. You'll likely have to check a map to know more.
History 6
You've never heard of the Ash Guard, and know little of the history of Unity. Outside they have been rebuilding from a civil war.
History 20
Loxodon Unity is more Matriarchal. The fact there is a Fraternal Organization is strange of it's own right. The Ash Guard are more of a whisper, some stories and reports stating they played pivotal roles in the defense of Unity during times of need. Unity itself is a Confederation, with the Loxodon being the group that controls the western side. Loxodon Unity is held together by Matriciarchal families - in which Diadochi was in exile from - and have a firm belief in the power of stories and recording one's deeds. A good tale, or recognition, goes further than coin.
Religion 14
Loxodon Unity, like most of the Kingdoms, does follow the Faith. Especially in the past few decades.
Arcana 25
Somewhere in the mountain range between Ethuria and Unity rests the Bulb. Legends speak of it being a place of wonder and great power. To get there, you would have to head off to the city of Mythros - and likely venture in the rolling mountains. But you don't think this journey is taking you anywhere close to there.
The Warlocks trunk wiggles in the air a bit and gives off a trumpeting sound. "Your looks won't be as much of a concern as it is your smell. The nose never lies."
"But, for the Ash Guard. I do not know. They are simply.. in the way. So I would advise being as clever as possible. They're skilled. But understand. Information I have is segmented. I simply know of the gnome, and where the last location was. I don't have more information on that. It's why the pay is so high."
Off in the distance, people can be seen leaving the party from the dock. The Warlock turns his head to the side. "Well... I should be going. It's been a, eventful night."
Back at the home, Rollo shakes the hand of the Matron. "We have a deal."
"I appreciate a group that doesn't ask many questions," she says with a nod. Before gesturing you all out the door. The party upstairs seeming to break up. A few of the guests confused as to why they're leaving when the 'other people' are still doing their thing. Seemingly unaware of their illusion nature.
That night....
Bobby, your Morgan impersonator, is being lead down by the docks. Shatter stands behind him; armored gauntlet on the back of Bobby's neck. Pushing him along while his other hand holds a pistol to the man's spine.
"There... that's the boat they're all in," Bobby words stumble out. His knees shaking in fear. "They said something about the forest near here, and a job out of here, and I don't know. I didn't pay that much attention..."
Shatter nods. "That'll do. Now get out of town. I don't want to have to deal with you later." He lets Bobby go, who panic and runs. Vanishing into the streets of the town. Shatter lingers a moment, looking over the Windhook, before turning and heading back to where he parked his bird.
Morning comes... a slight breeze in the air. A few rainclouds over head but looking like they'll stay away for a few hours.
Captain Wednesday stands on the deck, looking over at the crew. "Yeah yeah yeah, I know. Job to do and other such nonsense. Make it quick. This job has me nervous about wasting too much time."
There are a few stables that you could likely rent a horse, or a mule, for the day (Per Horse: 100 gold deposit. Will get 90 back if horse comes back alive. 60 feet travel / doubling your speed) (Per Mule: 30 gold deposit. Will get 27 back if mule comes back alive. 40 feet travel / shave off an hour)
You know you could likely hire a Huntsmen to navigate you there for the right price (2 gold)
As you all grab a ration and some water for the day, just in case things go wrong.... what do you do?
((Overland travel uses the slowest person's speed. Let me know who's Front / Middle / Rear. Whoever is guiding, roll Survival)) ((Person rolling survival, let me know if the group is going Fast / Normal / Slow. Fast; -5 to passive perception and loud. Slow; group can make stealth rolls))
Morgan smacks their head, "That's right, smell... I remember now... wait you can't do that? I thought everyone who was like us has the same set of powers... that's interesting. Well, You've been very helpful, sir. I will reach out to you again if I find anything I think you can use. Have a great day." Morgan watches him leave, "What a nice man..."
Morgan suggest everyone get's horses and then checks their funds. "huh? I thought I had more money. oh well. Hey Abigail, darling. Want to double up on a horse?" If she says no Morgan offers to pay someone back for renting a horse. Morgan suggests they go fast and stays in the middle.
Abigail looks sideways at Morgan, "Ass." She says.
She lets the word linger in the air for a moment before letting a smile creep onto the side of her lips and clarifying, "I think we should rent a mules instead. I do not trust that our band of merry miscreants won't get the beasts killed."
"We should probably also hire ourselves a guide. I am not wanting to get lost on some personal affairs, and mess up the larger job at hand."
Abigail will pay for a guide, and the leasing of a mule. She also goes and suites up for an excursion.
Morgan purses their lips, "You tease... delightful. I really hope we get paid again soon, I've got a lot of people I need to bribe not to get revenge, on me... Hey, Tarak! are we still seeing your dude? Is this on the way or are we coming back here?" Morgan rents the fattest mule they can find, "I will name you, Badonkadonkey."
Tarak gets up in the morning after a quick prayer and meditation session he begins to pack his gear. He looks up as Morgan calls his name “Yes I am leaving soon but I would appreciate the company. I think we should rent mules to move faster than by foot.”
Once he knows who is going with he will go get his mule with a grateful nod to Abigail for paying for the guide. Tarak will be near the front with whoever is leading.
Morgan will follow Tarak if he separates from the group since they did promise ((they remember promising at any rate)) and want to talk to this mysterious Iron Queen guy.
The crew does a bit of prep work - hiring the local hunter (2 gold) to bring them to the forest and back, along with three mules (120 gold retainer for the saddles, bags, and mule itself.) The agreement being that if brought back alive and well, their deposit will be returned. Morgan and Abigail sharing one mule, while Lafetha and the Hunter share another. Tarak, being heavier in the armor, having their own. But it will also likely be the one to possibly carry anything extra back as well....
The Huntsmen is a rather skilled guide. Leading you across the fields and to the woods a few hours away. It's a fairly easy ride to the woods, but his expertise pays off once you enter. Knowing the paths through the twisted trees that grow on top of one another. The forest itself quite dense, and easy to get lost in. Eventually he stops, and points out in the distance, between a small thicket of shrubs and trees.
"There," he says as he begins to climb off the mule. "I'm not taking you any further to that crazed hermit. Come back here when you're ready to head back." In any conversations about the Hermit, he simply just shrugs. Seeming to know he's a hermit, and the animals stay away from him - that's enough for him to know that he shouldn't approach.
Through the clearing is a mount of earth, pushed up and covered with a thicket of bark and leaves. Deep stone lined pits sit in the ground near a circular opening. A deep purple-blue viscous liquid bubbles up, splashing just a bit as it appears to be at a light boil. The liquid sizzling on the ground where it splashes, and reeks. The cracks of twigs hails your arrival as the crew approaches. A woman stepping out from the circular opening; standing about as tall as a Goliath but her skin appears to be made of rocks and stones. Her clothing is mostly skins of animals, but well kept. Her head half shaved, with chin length slate hair falling down across her face on the other side. She jams a stone headed spear into the ground as stays by the opening of the home; near the odd pits in the ground.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
"hey, you're very cool! You like being hermit? Because nothing is lonelier than a life at sea... River... Something. I'm very cursed, some sort if super sword eating my soul. It was very cool until I had to deal with literally a consequence so now I want to be saved... Literally. Can you help?"
If the aren't Atholessa they ask they do roughly the same spiel.
Morgan, you see the Loxodon blink a few times.
"So. There is a library here, but it's only likely a small few tomes," he gestures over to the small building of the Faith. "But, no, I don't think anyone is going to research insane theories or out themself as a cultist to be run out of town."
He scratches his trunk a few times. "Although, I am no longer sure if your statement means you wish to duel to the death or not."
Back inside the home...
Abigail you make your way into the kitchen. It's a cluttered mess, and very warm. People coming and going. Taking small little pastries out of the ovens and placing them down on tables to cool. It looking like some kind of next round of food for the people, tiny meat pies and other savory treats. A back door leads outside where a handful of people go out to get a breath of cooler air before coming back inside. The Hobgoblin you saw earlier is in here, directing the flow of traffic. Tasting and inspecting the food before it goes out. Letting people know what plates and platters to use compared to the others. A large vault door sits along one wall - probably where the silver is kept - a slightly omnipresent feel to it.
The Hobgoblin looks over at you, a bit of a surprised expression that you're here. "Yes, Good Madam? Can I help you with something? Lost? Needing a special request?"
Meanwhile, the Matron of the house lets a smile creep from the corner of her lips. "I had heard the crew was rather skilled. I'm glad your skills are worthwhile." She begins to stroll towards one of the doors that leads down, a guard stepping out of he way. "Captain Rollo, please come..." she glances around. Not seeing the cat anywhere. "collect your crew then meet me downstairs so we can talk business."
Rollo lets out a bit of a frustrated sigh, "Someone go get Abigail. We should likely all be together if we're going to die in a cellar or hear a pitch."
Once gathered, the downstairs is cold but spacious. Carved stone hallways leading to small offices and other chambers. The Matron meets you in what seems to be a large meeting hall. The room only lit by a few candles that stand on a circular table. The middle of the table hollowed out; a cauldren there with some kind of bubbling brew rising out of it. It stinks of clay and spoiled turnips.
The shadows seem to move and dance. And you all can't help but to get the feeling that something is watching, despite not seeing anything.
"I am seeking a crew to get a package. This package was intercepted by authorities, but reclaimed. We need a crew to take the package, and bring it somewhere secure. The package is not alive, nor is it contraband in all the Kingdoms. Just where it's currently needing to be smuggled out of. The authorities are likely continuing their search, and a crew who can get somewhere fast is of the greatest importance," she reaches into her pocket, and tosses out a few items of jewelry.
Abigail, as a pirate you're able to quickly size them up. From the gemstones to their unique design, each of the items is easily worth a few thousand gold. "This is proof of what you can expect as payment. But I would expect to give a zero to your likely assessment of their worth. If all goes well." She reaches back over, grabbing the jewelry and again placing it in her pocket. "Information is only for those who accept the job. But I will answer whatever basic questions you may have. Go ahead and talk among yourselves."
Rollo pulls the crew that's here into a huddle. "All of us count on this one. Sounds illegal, but that kind of coin is hard to ignore. I will say, this is the best lead I currently have... outside a handful of small ticket ferry items. But anything this big, I need buy. So what say you?"
Mr. Firmin gives a nod of yes, his eyes clearly set on the idea of gaining that amount of riches.
Windhook Crew, what questions do you ask? How do you vote?
DM PbP Series (Completed) : The Blackmire Company, Voyage of the Windhook ,Shanty of Soulripper, The Streets of Dunnour
"Guys, we haven't tried to die lately. I think we should do it."
Tarak looks at the Matron. “I would like to know where the item is illegal. Will we be staying close by? I personally have a task to accomplish in the area tomorrow but then as long as the group agrees I will be available to take the job.” While waiting for her reply Tarak will try to spot the hidden watcher.
perception 13
Morgan sighs, "Of course not. It's never easy. And no I don't want to duel you. I'm just saying it would be easier... I don't think I'm going to make any headway here, I need a place either more cosmopolitan or more cultist underground-y... Ugh. fine... Hey I just lost a boat load of money, you want to commit some crimes? I'll split it with you 50/50."
The Matron gives a bit of a shrug to the second part of the question. "I have no issues with how much time it takes you to accomplish the objective. Last I heard, the package was secure. But if that has changed, I wouldn't know. However you and your crew mates were clever enough to see through a rouse. So I expect your deduction skills are enough to figure out the next steps if required. But where it is currently being held, the item is considered illegal. You'll have to get it, and get the contraband out."
The Loxodon gives out a laugh. "So, my name and stature here in town does not permit me from doing crime and stealing from my neighbors. I will have to ask you not to as well. That being said, since your friends haven't come back here yet, I expect things to be going well. And they are likely being asked to commit crimes for money. Just... not here...." he gives a broad gesture of the town, before giving Morgan a brief rundown on the smuggling operation.
DM PbP Series (Completed) : The Blackmire Company, Voyage of the Windhook ,Shanty of Soulripper, The Streets of Dunnour
Back at the kitchen - Abigail peers at the hobgoblin, debating if she should say anything about being followed, but decides to return to the mission at hand. "Actually, since you asked. I am having a bit of a rough day... off my game, so to speak. You would not happen to have anything stronger to drink?"
In the smelly bunker of doom - "The legality of the item does not matter to me so much as its purpose. Is this item going to be utilized in oppressing of destroying women and children?"
Insight: 7
If 'Yes'... "I am not sure about this one captain... I am not sure I want to be party to such things."
If 'No' and I believe her... "Well, assuming we do not get a knife in the back, the payoff looks good. I say we take it, captain."
Abigail:
Back in the kitchen, the Hobgoblin does give a bit of a laugh. He pulls out a deep reddish container that has a few floating cherries (and similar 'sour' berries). "The house Ginjinha," he says as he pours it into a glass tumbler. Normally the drink is taken as a shot, slowly sipped, but here he seems to be giving Abigail a triple. A few of the berries bobbing around as he puts the large container away and gets back to work. It isn't necessarily the strongest thing in the world, but packs more of a punch than your standard wine or beer. The house batch is.. fair. Likely fresher and will continue to fortify and enhance in flavor over time.
Downstairs.... the Matron shakes her head. "No, that is not its intended use." You find her difficult to read and follow up on the 'intended use," but she does seem honest about it at the very least.
Captain Rollo gives a nod, hearing both Lafetha, Abigail and Firmin confirm that they would take the job. "You have a deal," he says as he puts a arm on Tarak. A small nod to him, affirming that he won't leave the Paladin stranded in town on his own mission, especially after hearing the Matron state she doesn't care on the timeline.
The Matron (and to a less detailed extent, the Loxodon Warlock by Morgan) fill in the crew...
Let me start at the beginning. I am asking you to obtain written documents, and escape to another location with them. The writer has been passing information along in secret, but, some of the local authorities have begun to pick up on how we are slipping the information through. Because of this, the most recent documents were intercepted.
The last contact I had, they were in the Patnada Region of Loxodon controlled Unity. A area called Yēkhānē nadīra śēṣa haẏa, or "Where the River Ends" for those that do not speak Loxodon. Our contact is likely in one of the surrounding villages of that area. A gnome of golden yellow eyes. The authorities that, in this case you might have to deal with, are a Fraternal Order known as the Ash Guards.
Once you have the documents, head to the Tri-River City of Ossus. (This is the city where you recruited Tarak, and spend some time) There, deliver the information to a Ms. Aly Charstone. You will likely find her at the Ossian News. From there, follow instructions to receive your payment."
Both the crew with the Matron, and the Warlock, wait for any possible questions.
What do you do?
(Some ideas! Nature to know anything about the Patnada Region. History to know anything about the Ash Guard, or Loxodon Unity. Insight to the person telling you the info. Arcana & Religion will only give cultural clues / historical insight to the region, but not any information on specifics)
DM PbP Series (Completed) : The Blackmire Company, Voyage of the Windhook ,Shanty of Soulripper, The Streets of Dunnour
Thinking while she is talking Tarak tries to place what she is talking about.
Nature 14 Patnada Region
History 0 Ash Guard
Insight 19
“Can you tell me anything about the Hermit I seek? The quicker I get there the quicker I can return and begin this task”
Insight 3
Nature: 17
History: 20
Insight: 24
Morgan sighs, "No they don't want to do crimes with me either... It ... it sucks. You want to know something really messed up? You're the closest thing I've had to a friend outside of work and I literally had to pay you not to kill me. This place where the river ends, is there a particular face I should wear that might get me preferred treatment." To Prove their point they cycle through several disguises selves. "Are the Ash guards actively looking for people like us or do are they just local law enforcement? Whats the best way of avoiding/pleasantly getting past them? Does the gnome contact hiding or if we can't find them can we ask around to find them? Is there any like 'gotcha!' things happening there. There was this one time a naked elf lady got mad at us when her gators attacked us, we had a whole thing, it was a mess, I had to give her me extensive dagger collection. Anything like that we should avoid?"
arcana 28 (25)
religion 17 (14)
insight 8
history 7
nature 23
The Matron shakes her head. "I've only heard stories of a crazed old hermit who lives in the woods some odd hours from here. But I tend to be too busy to listen to stories of a person living in the wilds."
The crew, hearing her, believe she's telling the truth and does not have any information on the subject.
Nature <10
Well... it's called where the river ends. So there probably isn't a river anymore.
Nature <15
The Patnada region is a series of tributatires and shallow land that has been irragated to grow rice, and similar plants that can handle the higher amount of standing water.
Nature 17
The Patnada region is a series of tributatires and shallow land that has been irragated to grow rice, and similar plants that can handle the higher amount of standing water. The ground itself is rather rocky, making navigating around dangerous and why a good portion of your journey will have to go out on foot once reaching the best docking location. You'll likely have to check a map to know more.
History 6
You've never heard of the Ash Guard, and know little of the history of Unity. Outside they have been rebuilding from a civil war.
History 20
Loxodon Unity is more Matriarchal. The fact there is a Fraternal Organization is strange of it's own right. The Ash Guard are more of a whisper, some stories and reports stating they played pivotal roles in the defense of Unity during times of need. Unity itself is a Confederation, with the Loxodon being the group that controls the western side. Loxodon Unity is held together by Matriciarchal families - in which Diadochi was in exile from - and have a firm belief in the power of stories and recording one's deeds. A good tale, or recognition, goes further than coin.
Religion 14
Loxodon Unity, like most of the Kingdoms, does follow the Faith. Especially in the past few decades.
Arcana 25
Somewhere in the mountain range between Ethuria and Unity rests the Bulb. Legends speak of it being a place of wonder and great power. To get there, you would have to head off to the city of Mythros - and likely venture in the rolling mountains. But you don't think this journey is taking you anywhere close to there.
The Warlocks trunk wiggles in the air a bit and gives off a trumpeting sound. "Your looks won't be as much of a concern as it is your smell. The nose never lies."
"But, for the Ash Guard. I do not know. They are simply.. in the way. So I would advise being as clever as possible. They're skilled. But understand. Information I have is segmented. I simply know of the gnome, and where the last location was. I don't have more information on that. It's why the pay is so high."
Off in the distance, people can be seen leaving the party from the dock. The Warlock turns his head to the side. "Well... I should be going. It's been a, eventful night."
Back at the home, Rollo shakes the hand of the Matron. "We have a deal."
"I appreciate a group that doesn't ask many questions," she says with a nod. Before gesturing you all out the door. The party upstairs seeming to break up. A few of the guests confused as to why they're leaving when the 'other people' are still doing their thing. Seemingly unaware of their illusion nature.
That night....
Bobby, your Morgan impersonator, is being lead down by the docks. Shatter stands behind him; armored gauntlet on the back of Bobby's neck. Pushing him along while his other hand holds a pistol to the man's spine.
"There... that's the boat they're all in," Bobby words stumble out. His knees shaking in fear. "They said something about the forest near here, and a job out of here, and I don't know. I didn't pay that much attention..."
Shatter nods. "That'll do. Now get out of town. I don't want to have to deal with you later." He lets Bobby go, who panic and runs. Vanishing into the streets of the town. Shatter lingers a moment, looking over the Windhook, before turning and heading back to where he parked his bird.
Morning comes... a slight breeze in the air. A few rainclouds over head but looking like they'll stay away for a few hours.
Captain Wednesday stands on the deck, looking over at the crew. "Yeah yeah yeah, I know. Job to do and other such nonsense. Make it quick. This job has me nervous about wasting too much time."
There are a few stables that you could likely rent a horse, or a mule, for the day
(Per Horse: 100 gold deposit. Will get 90 back if horse comes back alive. 60 feet travel / doubling your speed)
(Per Mule: 30 gold deposit. Will get 27 back if mule comes back alive. 40 feet travel / shave off an hour)
You know you could likely hire a Huntsmen to navigate you there for the right price (2 gold)
As you all grab a ration and some water for the day, just in case things go wrong.... what do you do?
((Overland travel uses the slowest person's speed. Let me know who's Front / Middle / Rear. Whoever is guiding, roll Survival))
((Person rolling survival, let me know if the group is going Fast / Normal / Slow. Fast; -5 to passive perception and loud. Slow; group can make stealth rolls))
DM PbP Series (Completed) : The Blackmire Company, Voyage of the Windhook ,Shanty of Soulripper, The Streets of Dunnour
Morgan smacks their head, "That's right, smell... I remember now... wait you can't do that? I thought everyone who was like us has the same set of powers... that's interesting. Well, You've been very helpful, sir. I will reach out to you again if I find anything I think you can use. Have a great day." Morgan watches him leave, "What a nice man..."
Morgan suggest everyone get's horses and then checks their funds. "huh? I thought I had more money. oh well. Hey Abigail, darling. Want to double up on a horse?" If she says no Morgan offers to pay someone back for renting a horse. Morgan suggests they go fast and stays in the middle.
Abigail looks sideways at Morgan, "Ass." She says.
She lets the word linger in the air for a moment before letting a smile creep onto the side of her lips and clarifying, "I think we should rent a mules instead. I do not trust that our band of merry miscreants won't get the beasts killed."
"We should probably also hire ourselves a guide. I am not wanting to get lost on some personal affairs, and mess up the larger job at hand."
Abigail will pay for a guide, and the leasing of a mule. She also goes and suites up for an excursion.
Morgan purses their lips, "You tease... delightful. I really hope we get paid again soon, I've got a lot of people I need to bribe not to get revenge, on me... Hey, Tarak! are we still seeing your dude? Is this on the way or are we coming back here?" Morgan rents the fattest mule they can find, "I will name you, Badonkadonkey."
Tarak gets up in the morning after a quick prayer and meditation session he begins to pack his gear. He looks up as Morgan calls his name “Yes I am leaving soon but I would appreciate the company. I think we should rent mules to move faster than by foot.”
Once he knows who is going with he will go get his mule with a grateful nod to Abigail for paying for the guide. Tarak will be near the front with whoever is leading.
Morgan will follow Tarak if he separates from the group since they did promise ((they remember promising at any rate)) and want to talk to this mysterious Iron Queen guy.
The crew does a bit of prep work - hiring the local hunter (2 gold) to bring them to the forest and back, along with three mules (120 gold retainer for the saddles, bags, and mule itself.) The agreement being that if brought back alive and well, their deposit will be returned. Morgan and Abigail sharing one mule, while Lafetha and the Hunter share another. Tarak, being heavier in the armor, having their own. But it will also likely be the one to possibly carry anything extra back as well....
The Huntsmen is a rather skilled guide. Leading you across the fields and to the woods a few hours away. It's a fairly easy ride to the woods, but his expertise pays off once you enter. Knowing the paths through the twisted trees that grow on top of one another. The forest itself quite dense, and easy to get lost in. Eventually he stops, and points out in the distance, between a small thicket of shrubs and trees.
"There," he says as he begins to climb off the mule. "I'm not taking you any further to that crazed hermit. Come back here when you're ready to head back." In any conversations about the Hermit, he simply just shrugs. Seeming to know he's a hermit, and the animals stay away from him - that's enough for him to know that he shouldn't approach.
Through the clearing is a mount of earth, pushed up and covered with a thicket of bark and leaves. Deep stone lined pits sit in the ground near a circular opening. A deep purple-blue viscous liquid bubbles up, splashing just a bit as it appears to be at a light boil. The liquid sizzling on the ground where it splashes, and reeks. The cracks of twigs hails your arrival as the crew approaches. A woman stepping out from the circular opening; standing about as tall as a Goliath but her skin appears to be made of rocks and stones. Her clothing is mostly skins of animals, but well kept. Her head half shaved, with chin length slate hair falling down across her face on the other side. She jams a stone headed spear into the ground as stays by the opening of the home; near the odd pits in the ground.
"What." Her voice is soft, but harsh.
DM PbP Series (Completed) : The Blackmire Company, Voyage of the Windhook ,Shanty of Soulripper, The Streets of Dunnour
Tarak looks up at the woman “I seek Atholessa are you she?”
He dismounts from his mule “My name is Tarak Duskbane and I have been sent to deliver her a letter.”
Insight 16
If she says she is Atholessa and isn’t lying I will give her the letter.
"hey, you're very cool! You like being hermit? Because nothing is lonelier than a life at sea... River... Something. I'm very cursed, some sort if super sword eating my soul. It was very cool until I had to deal with literally a consequence so now I want to be saved... Literally. Can you help?"
If the aren't Atholessa they ask they do roughly the same spiel.
insight 18