*Graxx grins under his masking liking the effect that the it is having on the diners. He turns to Fat Mar.*
”This early I think I’ll just have water to go with the porridge. I appreciate it” says Graxx.
*Graxx then turns to the Captain and nods at the suspicious look.*
”You already know what it is Captain. It came off the dead wizard. Found out it helps me speak better and be more... talkative to folks. I’m not sure how I feel about that part. It also seems to make me a little harder to hit. It’ll come in handy next time we face off against a dragon or an assassin.” says Graxx.
”Hopefully this menacing look will serve as warning like your menacing black armor to any evil doers lurking nearby.” Graxx says with a nod.
Graxx eyes now move from person to person as he addresses everyone.
”When people feel they are being saved they will turn a blind eye to the evil their saviors may do. Now we shouldn’t count anyone in the city out as an informant to the Zhentarim.
The most important thing I took from those passages is that these dragons were found a and defeated!”
Graxx thuds his fist down on the table.
”We will be successful as well. I wish I could ask those heroes of old how they struck down these winged death creatures.”
Graxx turns to Moneus.
”These asking about Tormites. Do you have a name or description of anyone asking? Maybe we could ask them why they have such an interest in our friends.”
Doozey listened with rapt attention. And had he the extra paper and book, an error he needed to soon correct, he might've spent the time jotting down as much of their story. The fact that the pool seemed to have been rendered inert in particular catches his attention. Yet, he held his tongue towards the end.
"Brokengulk.. brokengulf... why does that name sound familiar?" He said to noone in particular while rubbing his chin. "Ah, whatever. It certainly feels as if they shot themselves in the foot a bit, considering they attacked an ally of a noble of the city. But then again, the matter hasn't exactly been brought to the big man's attention just yet." As he said offhandedly. "That said, it's probably we reconsider our base of operations in the future. No doubt word has gotten around regarding your survival, Mr. Utar, if they've been making inroads in various ways. Though, I think Villy -- *ahem*.. Ms. Villonah might've provided us the solution regarding more permanent and possibly easier to secure lodging." With that, he pulls out the scroll case, and offers it to any of the other party members to have look at.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
"Coffee, please. I feel I need a pick-me-up." Neya says to Fat Mar.
"That opens up some clearer possibilities on how my clan got involved," Neya starts, "It could be through the Zhentarim, directly, or through either or both of those noble houses as proxies of them. I have some suspicions on which it may be, but nothing concrete, yet."
Fat Mar slowly points to each of you as you place your drink orders: "Some coffees, some waters..." When it comes to Utar, he points and guesses: "... and a tea!" He nods assuming he is right and reassures the group: "I'll be right back with seven..." he looks at Biscuit"... eight bowls of barley porridge and beverages soon."
Once he moves away, Aleyd begins responding to the new info and to CRAP's take on it:
To Graxx: "I'm not sure how that broken mask would make you more charismatic, but it certainly makes it more fearsome. I'd guess it might even make a few enemies think twice before attacking you, or their hands may waver as they swing... I can see that. But, it bothers me not. As long as that mask is not in the possession of evil-doers, be my guest. You are not an evil-doer, are you Graxx? Do you have something to say about those barbarian attacks descending from the north in the story Litta just read to us?"
Listening to Doozey without being sure if he is being coy or if his short-term memory is non-existent, she shoots straight: "You must have hit your head hard. The Brokengulfs and Silmerhelves just gave each of us the largest paydays we have ever seen. No doubt this is proof that they have the means and clout to hire assassins." She nods at Neya as to support the point the monk made. "The real question is why? We Tormites have done no harm to these families. Not that I know of." She stares at Moneus, clearly insinuating that she mistrusts the Welcomers.
The tiefling responds: "Whatever we may have done or not done clearly happened in the past. Their grudge is against our group of Tormites specifically, not the Welcomers. Abot, Grewalt, Burga, and Ilim did not die because I was thieving."
Clicking her tongue and turning her face back to Utar, the captain asks: "Did I overhear you asking Seranolla about the fey lord in the Quivering Forest? Do you think he and his people are the same fey who struck a deal with the Zhentarim leader over a hundred years ago?" She points at Litta's book when asking the second question.
At this point, Fat Mar comes back with the food and drinks. Doozey uses the interruption as an opportunity to change subjects. As the server walks away, the stoutling suggests a change of HQs and offers Villonah's scroll case to (let's say...) Neya. She opens it up and, after a few seconds worth of skimming the document, reveals to the group that Villonah has just added a second name to the property title of one "Leadstopper Home." Written in fresh ink right next to the gnome's own name, Neya reads it out loud: Chaotic Relief Adventuring Party.
Utar gratefully accepts his tea from Fat Mar and cradles the mug in his hands, warming his hands.
"If the Brokengulfs and Silmerhelves were keen to eliminate two birds with one stone, they might have wanted to use the battle against the cultists as a cover. I doubt anyone would batted an eye over a couple more casualties. Do we think they know that we are who they were looking for?"
Taking a sip of hot tea, Utar continues suddenly,
"In saying that, perhaps that it exactly what Yalek was supposed to do to me. Aleyd, who else accompanied you on your mission?"
Relaying the information on King Witchthorn for Litta and Moneus, Utar falls short in actually connecting the two.
"It's certainly possible. I don't know enough about fey creatures to say for sure, but given the description given by Seranolla I think the aims of King Witchthorn could certainly align with the Zhentarim."
Pausing for more tea, Utar looks around his former comrades, "What I think we need to know is why we specifically, among all other Tormites are being targeted. My guess would be it relates to our shared history. That something we all were part of, displeased houses Brokengulf and Silmerhelve so much that they would think nothing of tracking us all down and killing us, one by one, years after the fact?"
Fat Mar's reappearance with breakfast puts an end to Utar's line of questions, but some food is welcome, especially given the return of his appetite.
"I like to think I"m not... I try to do good deeds and try to punish those who harm others. Though I'm sure some in this world would think I'm evil as I stand against their plans."
Graxx thinks to himself.
"There are many barbarian tribes out there. My tribe the Sky Pony tribe is just one of them. It's true it could have been the Sky Ponies as they did start expanding their reach around that time. It's hard to think it's been ten years of this madness going on. So many lives impacted. So many lives lost. I normally take some things historians write with a grain of salt. Normally, I would think the writer is just some city folk who thinks of barbarians as savage animals because they never actually met a barbarian... But... Since this writer talked poorly of nobles I tend to think they are not being shadowy but instead being truthful. I do not know about other tribes but the Sky Ponies raiding will end in the next few years. They will once again worry about themselves and no longer do anyone else's bidding."
In response to the good captain, Doozey scrunches up in a thoughtful expression, before then -- alongside Biscuit -- the two in each of their own way make the motion of 'Yea, probably' in regard to her point to on Doozey. "All I know is that I'm not exactly forward to our eventual visit with the King. Which, I hate to say it, we will need his help to some extent going forward, regardless of this... connection he has with those Zhent bastards." He says frankly, still rubbing his chin, though this time at the contents of the scroll case.
"Also... did not quite expected that as the reward... Was thinking some other Order holding or other. To do this instead... hm..." He furrows his brow a moment, and then sighs and shakes his head. It's with that he quiets to eat breakfast, and let the others dictate the course of conversation.
"As we get more answers, more questions seem to come about. The torrent of questions seems to be slowing down." Neya says. "However, that sort of mentality usually proves to be fallacious."
Aleyd: "Why would the noble houses in question arm us with so much coin if they intend to kill us?"
Aleyd: "Chaab is a known Zhentarim and Olisara is an advisor to Lady Dala Silmerhelve. They both accompanied me in my mission, but you were the ones selecting the teams."
Litta: "Even if you know who the fey from this history excerpt may be, I am not sure how we'd use that information."
Moneus: "Regarding motive, it has to be something our unit of eight Tormites did after you joined, Utar. Otherwise, they'd have no reason to pursue your death."
Graxx gets the following response:
Aleyd: "You have done nothing but fight for the right side, as far as I am concerned, barbarian."
Doozey gets the following responses:
Litta: "Do you mean we need the fey's help to deal with this assassination plot, or do you have other troubles to take care of?"
Moneus: "Whoever signed your group's name on that title played a prank on you. The house was partially destroyed in a fire. Are you planning to renovate it?"
Neya gets the following response:
Aleyd: "Well, we've narrowed it down to three suspects: the Brokengulfs, the Silmerhelves, and the Zhentarim. Do we think they are all working in collusion or should we try to narrow down the list even further? What's the plan going forward?"
"That was going to be a given regardless of any fire damage. At least if we were to make such a place a sort of home base here while we conducted business in the general area." Doozey replied simply to Moneus, before then looking to Litta. "And its the latter, by the way. Believe it or not, but we've found added evidence of the dragon having a sort of, uh...Speaker or other person of invested interest somewhere in town. Or so the note we found seemed to somewhat suggest." He explained. "So, seeing as she's already proven manipulative and capable enough to use outside resources to her advantage, she'll need to be dealt with. Least we find all of ourselves with an extra set of hidden hands on our cases and after our lives."
It's at that point he frowns and looks to the remains of his porridge. "Though truthfully... even ignoring the dragon threat, a-and obviously I wouldn't wish to drag others along for so personal matter, but... The King may know something of the Redfoot -- My Kin -- passing through his forest past. And as the last of them seeking to right some old wrongs, I'd have had to speak with him or his court at some point or another anyhow." He admit, then starts massaging the bridge of his nose.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Reaching into his memory, Utar tries to recall any interactions with Houses Brokengulf or Silmerhelve in the past outside of the last few days. Or the Zhentarim. Anything from their shared pasts that might have convinced someone to bide their time and take revenge years later. The emblem on his pauldron shimmers briefly as he casts guidance. Using it feels different to his amulet, but comfortingly, the feedback tingle as he uses it is exactly the same. Just on his shoulder now.
"I think if it was the Brokengulfs and Silmerhelves they would have taken the opportunity. Either in the group missions or on the battlefield or last night. I can't imagine what kind of long game they'd be playing."
(OOC I've ignored Utar's +2 proficiently on the skill check to account for the -2 from [Tooltip Not Found])
"That is a tricky question to answer. On one hand, taking more time to investigate would make us more sure, but will also give them time to strike again. On the other hand, we would get ahead of their next attack, but run the risk of alerting them if we are wrong."
"However, considering the circumstances around which we met Yalek, we could narrow down list of suspects even further. In the meeting before we started our separate missions, Senetir, Lord Valero's retainer, had suggested we oust him to enlist his aid in the fight. Which is strange as Chaab was in the same room, and it would have been more appropriate for him to give that information - given the right incentive, of course. I also recall that Senetir was not at among us last night, which was the day of Utar's attack. Too many coincidences are occurring around him." Neya finishes ash she fold her arms.
”I haven’t trust Chaab since I met him many ten day ago. Get me and Chaab in a room together. I have a certain effect on the Drow as he knows I mean business.”
Graxx laughs once and turns to AHB and Moneus.
”You know how I mentioned some probably think I’m evil. Chaab is one of them. Almost pushed his cage into the water with flesh eating fish the first time I met him.
Graxx raises one finger and smiles.
”But.. I didn’t and he still is among the living.”
I’ll question Chaab about Yalek. If Yalek is true Zhentarim and Chaab is behind this then I will get Yalek’s location from Chaab. If Yalek is not Zhentarim and acting as an agent of Senetir then surely Chaab and his fellow agents would not want to be framed by someone else and would work us to clear their name.”
Graxx looks to AHB.
”You wouldn’t know where ol’ Chaab hangs out would you?”
(OOC: Just in case it wasn't clear. The Leadstopper Home is the one building that the were-gang set on fire and Graxx and Utar helped save.)
While listening to Doozey, Litta slowly closes the book and drags it on the table toward her own chest. "It sounds like you still have many threads to pursue. May Torm guide you in all your paths."
Captain Burral shakes her head positively as Neya develops her thoughts step-by-step. "You are right. Too many coincidences. Perhaps we should seek the owlman and ask him a few questions. I am sure we've earned the privilege of requesting an audience with Lord Valero Brokengulf, although, if he is involved too, we'd be walking into the lion's den."
Moneus eats another spoonful of porridge before pointing at Graxx: "Or we could save those questions to this Chaab fella. We know he is a Zhentarim agent and it sounds like the big man here can make him talk. The trouble is... where do we find him?"
Aleyd turn to Utar and says: "I agree. They had a prefect opportunity to take two of us down but didn't. Perhaps we should focus on the Zhentarim first then. But I do not know where to find this Chaab. I had never seen him until that first dinner meeting."
Utar takes a moment to think about the circumstances under which he joined the other Tormites:
Your story is one of redemption. Utar used to revel in combat for the sake of combat. That's how all the other mercenaries in his band used to act, and it never felt out of place until Utar tasted defeat. He recovered thanks to the generosity of those he called his enemies, and when Utar opened his mind to the possibility of helping others instead of harming them, those former enemies welcomed him with open arms.
However, others might have their own take on that story. The other orc and half-orc mercenaries, after being bested once, returned to enact vengeance. Instead, those who survived left with their pride destroyed, their battle fame diminished, and the knowledge that one of them had turned coat. You'd imagine any of these few survivors could have held quite a grudge against Utar.
That said, the assassinations were carefully thought out and certainly required many resources. These are not the trademark features of a defeated band of soldiering mercenaries....
You rack your brain over and over again until what could be a small epiphany buds in your mind... Mercenaries... That is it! The orcs and half-orcs' band were mercenaries. They fought for the glory of Gruumsh, sure, but the fights were not their own. The victories at the battlegrounds were theirs, but whatever those victories enacted, their consequences, belonged to those hiring the mercenary band. The true spoils belonged to them. And the Tormites were the last hurdle in their path. They were the ones who prevented their ultimate victory. And they did it with one such half-orc mercenary fighting on their side. A symbol of betrayal. A symbol of defiance. A symbol that must be destroyed before the path to victory reemerges.
Now, who hired the mercenary band Utar used to belong to? Many battles where fought in the Moonsea Region. Their interests were in this area. What parties have grandiose plans for the region that would require battle in such a large stage?
Utar throws his mind back to times he'd rather not dwell in for too long. He's certainly a target for whichever group or groups is looking to put his former unit in the ground, so it stands to reason that the reason behind it would stem from when he turned his coat.
"I keep running things through my mind. I think you're right. I think that whoever holds this grudge against us likely gained it after I joined up, otherwise why would I be a target too?"
His hand drifts to the scars quietly healing on his chest and neck, settling in his armour somewhere between the two.
"Before I joined up and I was running as part of a horde that mother's would warn their children about, we weren't some unchecked rabble. We'd take jobs, ones that paid well. I was never given a seat at that table and never needed it either, I just needed to be given a direction and something to swing. But I can't help but think, whoever was wealthy enough to point that particular weapon in a given direction is likely powerful enough to pay off any number of assassins."
Draining his mug of tea, he winces as he swallowed the cold and slightly sour dregs.
"To make matters worse, when we stood against them and turned them back, we likely put paid to whatever scheme was being put in motion. Back then, did any of you have any idea who was pulling the strings of, you know, the other side?"
Graxx frustratingly runs his fingers through his black hair.
”Ugh! What are we to do!” says Graxx as he sits back in his chair.
”I don’t know what we are to do. We need Chaab but don’t know where Chaab is. The nobles who would know how to get in touch with Chaab may be the ones trying to kill us so going to them makes things difficult.”
Graxx sighs.
”Surely us coming and asking for the Zhentarim wouldn’t be too much of a surprise. Since Utar survived those who sent Yalek must know Utar saw him since he is among the living.”
Graxx looks to Utar.
”Sounds like we both have a rough history. We’re on the right side of the fight now and we will prevail.”
Graxx shakes his head.
”Are we to sit and wait every night for another assassin to strike to hope to catch them and get answers from them?”
Apart from a faint nod in agreement to Litta, Doozey had not much the heart to continue along that thread. Again, even ignoring the dragon business, the other was more personal. The same could be said of the islanders as well, as it felt something of a dangling thread that yet needing nipping from the rest.
"Though it is the longest shot, could always just ask him when you're ready Mr. Utar. Chaab, I mean. It's not as if they don't by now know Yalek screwed up the job. Or perhaps... perhaps the "screw up" was intentional?" Doozey thumbs his chin a moment, and then shrug. "Just a thought as well. Don't mind me."
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
As Utar uses information from his past to narrow down possible motives, he concludes that the faction whose plan's were foiled by the actions of the Tormites would also have the means to procure a resolution to said motives. The half-orc's question hangs in the air for a bit, until Aleyd breaks the silence: "We've learned that the Cult of the Dragon has some sort of plan for the region, so their schemes would meet the scope of the necessary actions. We also know they are in the habit of hiring mercenaries."
Moneus interrupts her: "None of the evidence we uncovered so far points to the Cult of the Dragon. And for what it's worth, it already sounds like our suspicions are steering away from the two noble families. If not these three groups..."
Litta places her hands on the book and pushes it back to the center of the table. She completes the tiefling's conclusion for him: "Then the Zhentarim. They have been around for long enough, are likely aiming at regaining lost power, and a faction that size certainly has the means to fund assassinations."
Graxx picks up the conversation at this point, clearly stating that the next point of action would be to find and question one of only two confirmed Zhentarim agents that the group is aware of: Chaab. The barbarian jokingly suggests that the group's best option might be to simply wait for the next attack and Aleyd builds on top of that point: "That is perhaps not such a bad idea. We could make sure one of us Tormites always goes to sleep in a somewhat vulnerable position. We choose their next target for them. The others would remain hidden but nearby. There is no certainty that the killer would be a Zhentarim agent, though." She looks at Neya as to reference her tribe's involvement, but she does not do so maliciously.
It is then Doozey's turn to interrupt. He suggests a more direct approach: sending a message to Chaab. The stoutling instinctively reaches into his pocket and feels the statuette of a certain brown raven, which could achieve similar results.
This reminds Aleyd of something. She reaches into one of her pouches and puts the borrowed half of CRAP's Sending Stone on the table. "I should probably return this, but I have to admit that being able to reach your group instantly is quite a tactical benefit."She then turns to Doozey and says: "If we are going to send a magical message, we could send one to the the other Zhentarim you have met too, this Yalek you keep mentioning. Or others..." She looks at the ceiling pensively.
Doozey rubs chin at the last suggestion and even cocks his head to the side a little. "Hmm... No, it can't be Yalek that gets the message. Far too tempting for it turn into a hackling sort of thing given what he did to Mr. Utar here." He counters. "Though, it probably would be funny if Utar can somehow get him to shit his pants with a 'Yalek. Your arse is grass when I next see you. And it will be soon! Bayhahah!'" He adds, prompting biscuit to bring his paws up to his face and let out some mirthful sounding "Boofs".
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
Utar responds to Graxx with a solemn nod and lets himself have a chuckle at Doozey's suggested message to Yalek.
"I agree that pulling on the Zhentarim thread is most likely our best bet. Either they're behind this or can point is in the right direction to identify whose heads we need to bust next. Chaab is a likelier target than Yalek, he's already indebted to us for freeing him from a Kuo Toa cell and he's terrified of Graxx. I think we could get him to talk. The question is how do we set the trap and how to we bait it?"
*Graxx grins under his masking liking the effect that the it is having on the diners. He turns to Fat Mar.*
”This early I think I’ll just have water to go with the porridge. I appreciate it” says Graxx.
*Graxx then turns to the Captain and nods at the suspicious look.*
”You already know what it is Captain. It came off the dead wizard. Found out it helps me speak better and be more... talkative to folks. I’m not sure how I feel about that part. It also seems to make me a little harder to hit. It’ll come in handy next time we face off against a dragon or an assassin.” says Graxx.
”Hopefully this menacing look will serve as warning like your menacing black armor to any evil doers lurking nearby.” Graxx says with a nod.
Graxx eyes now move from person to person as he addresses everyone.
”When people feel they are being saved they will turn a blind eye to the evil their saviors may do. Now we shouldn’t count anyone in the city out as an informant to the Zhentarim.
The most important thing I took from those passages is that these dragons were found a and defeated!”
Graxx thuds his fist down on the table.
”We will be successful as well. I wish I could ask those heroes of old how they struck down these winged death creatures.”
Graxx turns to Moneus.
”These asking about Tormites. Do you have a name or description of anyone asking? Maybe we could ask them why they have such an interest in our friends.”
Doozey listened with rapt attention. And had he the extra paper and book, an error he needed to soon correct, he might've spent the time jotting down as much of their story. The fact that the pool seemed to have been rendered inert in particular catches his attention. Yet, he held his tongue towards the end.
"Brokengulk.. brokengulf... why does that name sound familiar?" He said to noone in particular while rubbing his chin. "Ah, whatever. It certainly feels as if they shot themselves in the foot a bit, considering they attacked an ally of a noble of the city. But then again, the matter hasn't exactly been brought to the big man's attention just yet." As he said offhandedly. "That said, it's probably we reconsider our base of operations in the future. No doubt word has gotten around regarding your survival, Mr. Utar, if they've been making inroads in various ways. Though, I think Villy -- *ahem*.. Ms. Villonah might've provided us the solution regarding more permanent and possibly easier to secure lodging." With that, he pulls out the scroll case, and offers it to any of the other party members to have look at.
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
"Coffee, please. I feel I need a pick-me-up." Neya says to Fat Mar.
"That opens up some clearer possibilities on how my clan got involved," Neya starts, "It could be through the Zhentarim, directly, or through either or both of those noble houses as proxies of them. I have some suspicions on which it may be, but nothing concrete, yet."
Extended Signature
Fat Mar slowly points to each of you as you place your drink orders: "Some coffees, some waters..." When it comes to Utar, he points and guesses: "... and a tea!" He nods assuming he is right and reassures the group: "I'll be right back with seven..." he looks at Biscuit "... eight bowls of barley porridge and beverages soon."
Once he moves away, Aleyd begins responding to the new info and to CRAP's take on it:
To Graxx: "I'm not sure how that broken mask would make you more charismatic, but it certainly makes it more fearsome. I'd guess it might even make a few enemies think twice before attacking you, or their hands may waver as they swing... I can see that. But, it bothers me not. As long as that mask is not in the possession of evil-doers, be my guest. You are not an evil-doer, are you Graxx? Do you have something to say about those barbarian attacks descending from the north in the story Litta just read to us?"
Listening to Doozey without being sure if he is being coy or if his short-term memory is non-existent, she shoots straight: "You must have hit your head hard. The Brokengulfs and Silmerhelves just gave each of us the largest paydays we have ever seen. No doubt this is proof that they have the means and clout to hire assassins." She nods at Neya as to support the point the monk made. "The real question is why? We Tormites have done no harm to these families. Not that I know of." She stares at Moneus, clearly insinuating that she mistrusts the Welcomers.
The tiefling responds: "Whatever we may have done or not done clearly happened in the past. Their grudge is against our group of Tormites specifically, not the Welcomers. Abot, Grewalt, Burga, and Ilim did not die because I was thieving."
Clicking her tongue and turning her face back to Utar, the captain asks: "Did I overhear you asking Seranolla about the fey lord in the Quivering Forest? Do you think he and his people are the same fey who struck a deal with the Zhentarim leader over a hundred years ago?" She points at Litta's book when asking the second question.
At this point, Fat Mar comes back with the food and drinks. Doozey uses the interruption as an opportunity to change subjects. As the server walks away, the stoutling suggests a change of HQs and offers Villonah's scroll case to (let's say...) Neya. She opens it up and, after a few seconds worth of skimming the document, reveals to the group that Villonah has just added a second name to the property title of one "Leadstopper Home." Written in fresh ink right next to the gnome's own name, Neya reads it out loud: Chaotic Relief Adventuring Party.
Utar gratefully accepts his tea from Fat Mar and cradles the mug in his hands, warming his hands.
"If the Brokengulfs and Silmerhelves were keen to eliminate two birds with one stone, they might have wanted to use the battle against the cultists as a cover. I doubt anyone would batted an eye over a couple more casualties. Do we think they know that we are who they were looking for?"
Taking a sip of hot tea, Utar continues suddenly,
"In saying that, perhaps that it exactly what Yalek was supposed to do to me. Aleyd, who else accompanied you on your mission?"
Relaying the information on King Witchthorn for Litta and Moneus, Utar falls short in actually connecting the two.
"It's certainly possible. I don't know enough about fey creatures to say for sure, but given the description given by Seranolla I think the aims of King Witchthorn could certainly align with the Zhentarim."
Pausing for more tea, Utar looks around his former comrades, "What I think we need to know is why we specifically, among all other Tormites are being targeted. My guess would be it relates to our shared history. That something we all were part of, displeased houses Brokengulf and Silmerhelve so much that they would think nothing of tracking us all down and killing us, one by one, years after the fact?"
Fat Mar's reappearance with breakfast puts an end to Utar's line of questions, but some food is welcome, especially given the return of his appetite.
Graxx sighs to Captain AHB.
"I like to think I"m not... I try to do good deeds and try to punish those who harm others. Though I'm sure some in this world would think I'm evil as I stand against their plans."
Graxx thinks to himself.
"There are many barbarian tribes out there. My tribe the Sky Pony tribe is just one of them. It's true it could have been the Sky Ponies as they did start expanding their reach around that time. It's hard to think it's been ten years of this madness going on. So many lives impacted. So many lives lost. I normally take some things historians write with a grain of salt. Normally, I would think the writer is just some city folk who thinks of barbarians as savage animals because they never actually met a barbarian... But... Since this writer talked poorly of nobles I tend to think they are not being shadowy but instead being truthful. I do not know about other tribes but the Sky Ponies raiding will end in the next few years. They will once again worry about themselves and no longer do anyone else's bidding."
In response to the good captain, Doozey scrunches up in a thoughtful expression, before then -- alongside Biscuit -- the two in each of their own way make the motion of 'Yea, probably' in regard to her point to on Doozey. "All I know is that I'm not exactly forward to our eventual visit with the King. Which, I hate to say it, we will need his help to some extent going forward, regardless of this... connection he has with those Zhent bastards." He says frankly, still rubbing his chin, though this time at the contents of the scroll case.
"Also... did not quite expected that as the reward... Was thinking some other Order holding or other. To do this instead... hm..." He furrows his brow a moment, and then sighs and shakes his head. It's with that he quiets to eat breakfast, and let the others dictate the course of conversation.
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
"As we get more answers, more questions seem to come about. The torrent of questions seems to be slowing down." Neya says. "However, that sort of mentality usually proves to be fallacious."
Extended Signature
Utar gets the following responses:
Graxx gets the following response:
Doozey gets the following responses:
Neya gets the following response:
"That was going to be a given regardless of any fire damage. At least if we were to make such a place a sort of home base here while we conducted business in the general area." Doozey replied simply to Moneus, before then looking to Litta. "And its the latter, by the way. Believe it or not, but we've found added evidence of the dragon having a sort of, uh...Speaker or other person of invested interest somewhere in town. Or so the note we found seemed to somewhat suggest." He explained. "So, seeing as she's already proven manipulative and capable enough to use outside resources to her advantage, she'll need to be dealt with. Least we find all of ourselves with an extra set of hidden hands on our cases and after our lives."
It's at that point he frowns and looks to the remains of his porridge. "Though truthfully... even ignoring the dragon threat, a-and obviously I wouldn't wish to drag others along for so personal matter, but... The King may know something of the Redfoot -- My Kin -- passing through his forest past. And as the last of them seeking to right some old wrongs, I'd have had to speak with him or his court at some point or another anyhow." He admit, then starts massaging the bridge of his nose.
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
Reaching into his memory, Utar tries to recall any interactions with Houses Brokengulf or Silmerhelve in the past outside of the last few days. Or the Zhentarim. Anything from their shared pasts that might have convinced someone to bide their time and take revenge years later. The emblem on his pauldron shimmers briefly as he casts guidance. Using it feels different to his amulet, but comfortingly, the feedback tingle as he uses it is exactly the same. Just on his shoulder now.
History - 15 plus 2
"I think if it was the Brokengulfs and Silmerhelves they would have taken the opportunity. Either in the group missions or on the battlefield or last night. I can't imagine what kind of long game they'd be playing."
(OOC I've ignored Utar's +2 proficiently on the skill check to account for the -2 from [Tooltip Not Found])
"That is a tricky question to answer. On one hand, taking more time to investigate would make us more sure, but will also give them time to strike again. On the other hand, we would get ahead of their next attack, but run the risk of alerting them if we are wrong."
"However, considering the circumstances around which we met Yalek, we could narrow down list of suspects even further. In the meeting before we started our separate missions, Senetir, Lord Valero's retainer, had suggested we oust him to enlist his aid in the fight. Which is strange as Chaab was in the same room, and it would have been more appropriate for him to give that information - given the right incentive, of course. I also recall that Senetir was not at among us last night, which was the day of Utar's attack. Too many coincidences are occurring around him." Neya finishes ash she fold her arms.
Extended Signature
Graxx growls through his mask.
”I haven’t trust Chaab since I met him many ten day ago. Get me and Chaab in a room together. I have a certain effect on the Drow as he knows I mean business.”
Graxx laughs once and turns to AHB and Moneus.
”You know how I mentioned some probably think I’m evil. Chaab is one of them. Almost pushed his cage into the water with flesh eating fish the first time I met him.
Graxx raises one finger and smiles.
”But.. I didn’t and he still is among the living.”
I’ll question Chaab about Yalek. If Yalek is true Zhentarim and Chaab is behind this then I will get Yalek’s location from Chaab. If Yalek is not Zhentarim and acting as an agent of Senetir then surely Chaab and his fellow agents would not want to be framed by someone else and would work us to clear their name.”
Graxx looks to AHB.
”You wouldn’t know where ol’ Chaab hangs out would you?”
(OOC: Just in case it wasn't clear. The Leadstopper Home is the one building that the were-gang set on fire and Graxx and Utar helped save.)
While listening to Doozey, Litta slowly closes the book and drags it on the table toward her own chest. "It sounds like you still have many threads to pursue. May Torm guide you in all your paths."
Captain Burral shakes her head positively as Neya develops her thoughts step-by-step. "You are right. Too many coincidences. Perhaps we should seek the owlman and ask him a few questions. I am sure we've earned the privilege of requesting an audience with Lord Valero Brokengulf, although, if he is involved too, we'd be walking into the lion's den."
Moneus eats another spoonful of porridge before pointing at Graxx: "Or we could save those questions to this Chaab fella. We know he is a Zhentarim agent and it sounds like the big man here can make him talk. The trouble is... where do we find him?"
Aleyd turn to Utar and says: "I agree. They had a prefect opportunity to take two of us down but didn't. Perhaps we should focus on the Zhentarim first then. But I do not know where to find this Chaab. I had never seen him until that first dinner meeting."
Utar takes a moment to think about the circumstances under which he joined the other Tormites:
Your story is one of redemption. Utar used to revel in combat for the sake of combat. That's how all the other mercenaries in his band used to act, and it never felt out of place until Utar tasted defeat. He recovered thanks to the generosity of those he called his enemies, and when Utar opened his mind to the possibility of helping others instead of harming them, those former enemies welcomed him with open arms.
However, others might have their own take on that story. The other orc and half-orc mercenaries, after being bested once, returned to enact vengeance. Instead, those who survived left with their pride destroyed, their battle fame diminished, and the knowledge that one of them had turned coat. You'd imagine any of these few survivors could have held quite a grudge against Utar.
That said, the assassinations were carefully thought out and certainly required many resources. These are not the trademark features of a defeated band of soldiering mercenaries....
You rack your brain over and over again until what could be a small epiphany buds in your mind... Mercenaries... That is it! The orcs and half-orcs' band were mercenaries. They fought for the glory of Gruumsh, sure, but the fights were not their own. The victories at the battlegrounds were theirs, but whatever those victories enacted, their consequences, belonged to those hiring the mercenary band. The true spoils belonged to them. And the Tormites were the last hurdle in their path. They were the ones who prevented their ultimate victory. And they did it with one such half-orc mercenary fighting on their side. A symbol of betrayal. A symbol of defiance. A symbol that must be destroyed before the path to victory reemerges.
Now, who hired the mercenary band Utar used to belong to? Many battles where fought in the Moonsea Region. Their interests were in this area. What parties have grandiose plans for the region that would require battle in such a large stage?
Utar throws his mind back to times he'd rather not dwell in for too long. He's certainly a target for whichever group or groups is looking to put his former unit in the ground, so it stands to reason that the reason behind it would stem from when he turned his coat.
"I keep running things through my mind. I think you're right. I think that whoever holds this grudge against us likely gained it after I joined up, otherwise why would I be a target too?"
His hand drifts to the scars quietly healing on his chest and neck, settling in his armour somewhere between the two.
"Before I joined up and I was running as part of a horde that mother's would warn their children about, we weren't some unchecked rabble. We'd take jobs, ones that paid well. I was never given a seat at that table and never needed it either, I just needed to be given a direction and something to swing. But I can't help but think, whoever was wealthy enough to point that particular weapon in a given direction is likely powerful enough to pay off any number of assassins."
Draining his mug of tea, he winces as he swallowed the cold and slightly sour dregs.
"To make matters worse, when we stood against them and turned them back, we likely put paid to whatever scheme was being put in motion. Back then, did any of you have any idea who was pulling the strings of, you know, the other side?"
Graxx frustratingly runs his fingers through his black hair.
”Ugh! What are we to do!” says Graxx as he sits back in his chair.
”I don’t know what we are to do. We need Chaab but don’t know where Chaab is. The nobles who would know how to get in touch with Chaab may be the ones trying to kill us so going to them makes things difficult.”
Graxx sighs.
”Surely us coming and asking for the Zhentarim wouldn’t be too much of a surprise. Since Utar survived those who sent Yalek must know Utar saw him since he is among the living.”
Graxx looks to Utar.
”Sounds like we both have a rough history. We’re on the right side of the fight now and we will prevail.”
Graxx shakes his head.
”Are we to sit and wait every night for another assassin to strike to hope to catch them and get answers from them?”
Apart from a faint nod in agreement to Litta, Doozey had not much the heart to continue along that thread. Again, even ignoring the dragon business, the other was more personal. The same could be said of the islanders as well, as it felt something of a dangling thread that yet needing nipping from the rest.
"Though it is the longest shot, could always just ask him when you're ready Mr. Utar. Chaab, I mean. It's not as if they don't by now know Yalek screwed up the job. Or perhaps... perhaps the "screw up" was intentional?" Doozey thumbs his chin a moment, and then shrug. "Just a thought as well. Don't mind me."
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
As Utar uses information from his past to narrow down possible motives, he concludes that the faction whose plan's were foiled by the actions of the Tormites would also have the means to procure a resolution to said motives. The half-orc's question hangs in the air for a bit, until Aleyd breaks the silence: "We've learned that the Cult of the Dragon has some sort of plan for the region, so their schemes would meet the scope of the necessary actions. We also know they are in the habit of hiring mercenaries."
Moneus interrupts her: "None of the evidence we uncovered so far points to the Cult of the Dragon. And for what it's worth, it already sounds like our suspicions are steering away from the two noble families. If not these three groups..."
Litta places her hands on the book and pushes it back to the center of the table. She completes the tiefling's conclusion for him: "Then the Zhentarim. They have been around for long enough, are likely aiming at regaining lost power, and a faction that size certainly has the means to fund assassinations."
Graxx picks up the conversation at this point, clearly stating that the next point of action would be to find and question one of only two confirmed Zhentarim agents that the group is aware of: Chaab. The barbarian jokingly suggests that the group's best option might be to simply wait for the next attack and Aleyd builds on top of that point: "That is perhaps not such a bad idea. We could make sure one of us Tormites always goes to sleep in a somewhat vulnerable position. We choose their next target for them. The others would remain hidden but nearby. There is no certainty that the killer would be a Zhentarim agent, though." She looks at Neya as to reference her tribe's involvement, but she does not do so maliciously.
It is then Doozey's turn to interrupt. He suggests a more direct approach: sending a message to Chaab. The stoutling instinctively reaches into his pocket and feels the statuette of a certain brown raven, which could achieve similar results.
This reminds Aleyd of something. She reaches into one of her pouches and puts the borrowed half of CRAP's Sending Stone on the table. "I should probably return this, but I have to admit that being able to reach your group instantly is quite a tactical benefit." She then turns to Doozey and says: "If we are going to send a magical message, we could send one to the the other Zhentarim you have met too, this Yalek you keep mentioning. Or others..." She looks at the ceiling pensively.
Doozey rubs chin at the last suggestion and even cocks his head to the side a little. "Hmm... No, it can't be Yalek that gets the message. Far too tempting for it turn into a hackling sort of thing given what he did to Mr. Utar here." He counters. "Though, it probably would be funny if Utar can somehow get him to shit his pants with a 'Yalek. Your arse is grass when I next see you. And it will be soon! Bayhahah!'" He adds, prompting biscuit to bring his paws up to his face and let out some mirthful sounding "Boofs".
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
Utar responds to Graxx with a solemn nod and lets himself have a chuckle at Doozey's suggested message to Yalek.
"I agree that pulling on the Zhentarim thread is most likely our best bet. Either they're behind this or can point is in the right direction to identify whose heads we need to bust next. Chaab is a likelier target than Yalek, he's already indebted to us for freeing him from a Kuo Toa cell and he's terrified of Graxx. I think we could get him to talk. The question is how do we set the trap and how to we bait it?"