Quivering Corruption (DM Lerus)

DM's Screen:

Senitir to Doozey: "A capable warrior? Well, maybe if I was twice as tall! No, no... I jest. I am sure my lord was not phinking of me when delivering phat message." He reaches into his droopy sleeves and procures a tome: "You see, I am only as good as my spellbook allows me to be, phough I can make good use of it from phe skies. As for phe ophers, well, phe Hammer of Impiltur is quite a famous paladin of Pelor, phough he is not phe only one in phis group phat has such a disposition. I hear Captain Aleyd Burral is quite phe capable paladin herself. As for phe remainder cohort, I am not completely sure. Phe orcish lady for instance is especially intriguing. I have never seen her before." He puts his book back where it was originally kept and adds: "Now, if you allow me to change subjects, I'd like for you to consider somephing else while you strategize. I heard phe Zhentarim spy, Chaab over phere, has embedded one of his colleagues amongst phe group of cultists phat recently attacked phe caravan. He can be recognized by a V-shaped scar on his left cheek, I was told. Phis spy could have vital information and should probably be kept safe from harm if he is indeed on our side."

@Dozzey: Now that you think of it, you have heard of the aarakocra in your youth, though you thought them to be a fairy tale creation. In the stories, not one had ever been mentioned as looking like an owl, though. It is fair to assume these creatures are incredibly rare.

Neya politely moves away from Seranolla and closer to Olisara, who is talking to Zern at the moment. The half-orc welcomes Neya to the conversation, but noticing she is initially interested in talking to the elf, he shows his well-trained sense of etiquette and allows the ladies to converse undisturbed for now. Note that he does not move away, though.

Olisara to Neya: "A pleasure to meet you, Neya. I am Olisara Lightsong, advisor to Lady Dala Silmerhelve. Regarding your question, I can only guess that after years seeking to create a dracolich and failing, some astute cultist became popular within their ranks by preaching a different tenant. Isn't that how most religions evolve? But what is really curious is the fact that at least one of these rival factions is seeking the favor of the Zartruss hobgoblins. They are known for despising humans, and the Cult's ranks are filled with them... no offense. However, our spies informed me that the band’s warlord, Garbul, is apparently willing to work with the Cult of the Dragon’s leadership. Perhaps there is some sort of kinship there. And here's something else our spies told us: somewhere within their stronghold, the hobgoblins house a large horn that may be used to alert Claugiyliamatar. Whenever the time comes to storm their headquarters, we should aim to prevent the horn from being sounded."

@Neya: Olisara is obviously a very proficient informant. She holds a wealth of information and is willing to share it in order to see the mission succeed. Despite this, you can't help but be drawn to her smooth-as-butter voice. It has a charm of its own, to the point that you find it hard to believe this elf would struggle convincing anyone of anything. You find yourself hoping that she fancies herself a songstress. It would be delightful to hear her sing.

Despite his previous animosity, Utar finds the half elf growing on him. Briefly describing the location of the village and the battle on the deck of the Third Dracolich for Harper, Utar pauses to sip a mug of a particularly delightful beer; toasted malt, citrus hops.

"...so the captain of the ship is a female tiefling, white hair, cut short, cloven hooves, dresses exclusively in purple. Calls herself Ixas, wearer of purple, and don't worry, we pointed out that is wasn't a particularly scary name.

She escaped the sinking of the ship, but given we didn't encounter any trace of her on our journey back to Phlan, I would venture she's either gone back to where they were staging their raids from, of she has some other means of travel, perhaps magical?

Now, I wonder if we might turn the attention of our conversation towards the tasks at hand. How do or friends from the Lords Alliance strike you? Either of them seem suited to speaking to Fey Lords or following and eavesdropping on Red Wizards?"

Graxx approaches Brother Keefe once more.

”Brother Keefe... My how destiny ties us all together.  Since we have been tasked with forming groups for these missions I’ve been thinking about you.  I know when we met moons ago you had seeked us out in this very place.

Graxx motions around the room.

”You had asked us to investigate rumors or necromancy.  Now I wasn’t a big fan then and I’m not a fan now of wizards especially if they play with dead folks.  This knowledge you have makes me think you may be good investigation these Thay wizards.  What do you think?  Or would your interest lie more with the Fey Lord?”

Insight:  20

Doozey to Senitir: Doozey crossed his arms as listened with rapt attention. "That is certainly something to consider, and I'm glad we got to talk. Though, considering how much my big friend over yonder was sort of, uhm, mean mugging him earlier, I doubt he'll be wanting to work side by side Chaab anytime soon." He starts to go to scratch his head, but catches himself in time. "Well, I have yet one more to speak to, not that I do not wish to learn more of yourself beyond just skill, as... well, you and yours were something a fairy tale for the Redfoots." Doozey cracks a wiry grin. "But curious as I am, business yet first. And that being what -you- believe yourself to be more effective with, even if only a supporting role. The entreaty with the Fey Lord as some sort of magical advisor or protector, perhaps? Or in dealing with the Thayans in the event things go hostile. Which... with so many big personalities, may yet be an issue regardless." He asked honestly.

Insight: 25.
(On Senitir. Both just in case, and seeing if there's anything he's particular reluctanct or downplaying too much to be concerning)

Perception: 11.

Once he had his answer, he would bow again in thanks, and then look around for Zhentil. No easy task being barely over three feet tall, but he wasn't planning on scaling any chairs or tables if it came to it. As soon as he was assured he had yet more time, Doozey would hustle his way either to Dorknal or Brother Keef next, bidding them a friendly wave enroute.

Neya includes Zern in the conversation, "Speaking of the hobgoblins. Zern, is there anything more to know about the Zartruss clan? I wold imagine that outside of these happenings, they would have had some level of notoriety. Otherwise the dragon likely wouldn't have considered them, correct?"

Insight: 22

Harper deeply enjoys Utar's tale, asking little questions here and there about this strange unnamed islet, their loose-screw residents, and this curious group of cultists who had taken up a bit of piracy. He then deduces: "Well, I told you the Cult of the Dragon is organized in a way to give plenty of their members thr opportunity to lead their own small war-band. They call themselves lieutenants, so perhaps this Wearer of Purple is one of them. If she is in the area and was looking for information on this dragon artifact you unveiled, then I wouldn't be surprised if she is involved in this." 

When Utar changes subjects, Harper keeps pace: "Lords' Alliance... hmm... I don't think I have met or heard of the balding priest before, but that dwarf is a strange one indeed. I have seen him in a bar brawl once, and let me tell you, he has a strange way of confusing his enemies. He strikes some of them as carelessly as he drinks, others an elegantly as he dresses. A real mystery that one..."

It turn out, Harper is quite talkative once some sort of bond has been formed, as this budding friendship with Utar is paying its dividends.

Brother Keefe is very happy to be talking to a familiar face, so his anxiety can be pushed aside at least momentarily: "Yes, yes! Indeed, my good man Graxx. It was right here we first met, and I remember also introducing you to Neya. It warms my heart to see that you all have formed a great team together." Then, when Graxx mentions necromancy, the priest cannot contain himself: "The undead are an affront to Kelemvor. I may be a member of the Lords' Alliance but I am also a priest of Kelemvor and it is my duty to stamp out the undead. Now, don't get me wrong. necromancy as a field of study is perfectly acceptable. Many healing spells have that source of magic to thank for even existing, but when used to raise the undead...no Graxx... that cannot be! You are correct in assuming my preference would be to go test my newly learned skills against these Thayans if they are indeed raising the long-dead as I fear! I'll wear my new armor, and bring my new shield too. I'll even use necromancy against them, so they learn how to properly use this gift. You see, It is likely that they will be using their foul magic to bind the spirits of the dead to their cause. Incorporeal undead will be devastating to our efforts. However, they deserve to find the peace of death without the taint of servitude. If I can, I'll free them from their torment without violence, and would be thankful if anyone else going in this mission would agree to this conditionality."

@Graxx: You have successfully riled up Brother Keefe, but in a good way. He is eager to go test out his new skills on a worthy cause, and based on his speech, you are pretty sure Kelemvor is the direct source of these new abilities. His mention of necromancy and his close proximity to the Valhingen Graveyard leads you to believe this man has become an adept follower of the balance between life and death as a tool for good. He is likely the type of cleric that can heal you or siphon the life out of you.

DM's Screen:

Senitir lets out some sort of birdish noise that makes Doozey believe he is laughing politely at the halfling's long-winded excuse to go talk to someone else. He invites Doozey to come back and talk anytime he wishes and lets him know that he is looking forward to see the hunter in the battlefield tomorrow. Senitir concludes the talk by saying: "I'll go where I am needed phe most, as judged by you and your companions, Master Redfoot."

@Doozey: The aarakocra strikes you as being fairly sincere in his approach to the conversation at hand. As for Zern, it is an easy enough task to find the tall and proud half-orc. He is just about to engage in conversation with Neya, next to Olisara, and at a considerable distance from Villonah.

Doozey then approaches Dornal Whitebeard, who welcomes the stoutling by offering him a mug of beer while holding one of his own, so they can clink them together: "Ah, finally. You have come to talk to me! I was starting to feel a little left out, you know! Bwahahaha! How can I help, beast master?"

Zern to Neya: "Notorious just as far as the Quivering Forest goes. The Zartruss clans used to mainly keep it to themselves besides a few raids here and there on smaller villages or caravans. Some group of brave adventures would always be put together whenever the hobgoblins were getting a bit to greedy. Sometimes they'd succeed in curbing them, others not so much. Now that we have learned that they serve the dragon, we are paying closer attention to this otherwise unremarkable group. I'll give them this though: they are very well organized. A group of hobgoblins was intercepted recently. Scouts by the look of them, likely seeking a safe route to the lands of this dark fey lord. We learned the hobgoblins have a system of alarms to alert their stronghold of intruders. A large horn, it seems. We also learned that the Zartruss clans have especially good archers among their ranks, and have constructed siege weapons as well. If so, those must be destroyed for our eventual attack on their stronghold to be successful."

@Neya: The Hammer of Impiltur strikes you as being worthy of his fame. The half-orc is well-informed and strategically inclined in his thinking. You have no doubt that Pelor has selected a wise and loyal warrior for his holy ranks. These particular skills could be very useful in different scenarios as well, such as leading an army or advising a monarch. In fact, you wouldn't be surprised if he did both of those things on top of being a member of the Order of the Gauntlet. If Impiltur were to still be ruled by a king, he'd certainly be loyal to that crown, you'd wager.

Doozey to Whitebeard: Though he left the aarakocra's side feeling both satisfied and little disappointed, Doozey would soon after accept the mug gratefully and at least shared in the toast. It's consumption he delayed in replying, "Well, you know what they say about saving the best for last, and I do believe extends to company as well." He smile, if but only faintly so. "Not that your peers... hmm... I suppose most of -our- peers now haven't been pleasant company enough... Ahem.. be all that as it may, I seek to get a sort of better feel of as many as I can, in what limited time we have, and you from what I hear, well... you seem to be bit of a mystery. Can you enlighten me perhaps on the sort of warrior you are? And, if there are, uhm... minor gripes you've had with others to be considered?"

"Well if you get the chance see if you can join his table at the festhall. The food isn't quite the same as the Tea Kettle, but I imagine you would enjoy watching Dornal work up close."

Utar takes a moment to survey the work the other members of CRAP are undertaking, as well as to get a fix on Aleyd.

"The priest is a Kelemvorite. Based just outside Phlan. A good man, but a little unsure of himself at times. Not sure how he comes to represent the Lords Alliance. Now, as much as I have enjoyed this exchange, I do need to check in with Captain Burral. Out of interest, you would happen to know how she ended up in Phlan, would you?"

Graxx gives a slight bow to Brother Keefe.

”Thank you Brother Keefe.  You will get your wish.”

Graxx goes to Lord Valero.

”Lord Valero... I appreciate you trusting this task to us.”

Graxx motions to all the people present engaging in conversation.

”I’m sure many of these brave warriors would succeed in any mission given.  But we’ve talked to them to find their strengths and feel we know where they would be best suited.”

Graxx points to himself.

”My party of CRAP will take Villonah Leadstopper and cut off the supply chain.”

Graxx then points out those he names individually.

“Visiting the Fey Lord will be Senetir, Seranolla, Zern Xerkstill,  Dornal Whitebeard and Buhrell Caah.”

”Getting to know the Thayans better will be Captain Aleyd Burral, Harper, Chaab, Olisara Lightsong, and Brother Keefe.”

 Graxx makes a fist.

”These groups will crush those missions laid before them.  It’s time to put these fancy clothes to the side and pick up the blades of war!”

Dornal to Doozey: "I like it that you can go straight to business when needed! My skills, you say? Very well. I am a brawler! I have spent years learning how to neutralize someone's pressure points, but I find that punching them right in the kisser works just as well. Bwhahahaah!"

While talking to Dornal, Doozey realizes that the dwarf is wearing a very similar belt to the one Graxx just purchased. 

Dornal continues in between beverages: "And no, no gripes to speak of. Or at least none that I can recall now that I am 7... no... 11 tankards in... I think." He is counting on his fingers, and showing Doozey the number four. "Oh, and there was something I meant to tell you too. The stronghold will contain a great amount of stolen cargo. We should aim at retrieving it without it being destroyed either by us or its captors. We should enter the stronghold without raising suspicion or an alarm, if possible."

Harper laughs at Utar's comment on joining Dornal at the festhall: "I shall not! You know, Utar, you are much better company without that grumpy dwarf around. No, no, not Dornal. The other one you used to adventure with. And you are quite good at this sharing-information game too. You'd make a good agent for the Harpers, if you ever become so inclined."

He then takes Utar's next comments as an invitation to do what he does best: "Hmm... I'll sea what I can find out once today's business is all dealt with. I agree that being insecure and a member of the Lords' Alliance seems a bit contradicting. I'll check on this captain's past as well, if it is of interest. I have my ways of finding out where she came from."

He then nods at Utar and raises his chalice as the half-orc begins to make his way to Aleyd.

After deliberating quickly with the rest of CRAP and sharing information, Graxx demands the floor's attention and delivers the team assignments. CRAP gets a few reactions:

• Lord Valero raises a glaass in approval of the formed teams. Lady Dala follows suit.
• Villonah seems happy to be joining the professional adventurers, or perhaps she is just relieved she was not assigned to the same team as Zern.
• Senitir seems fairly neutral, and Seranolla quite serene. They both look at Doozey.
• Zern approaches Utar and tries to invoke some sort of half-orc camaraderie: "I had hoped to fight by your side and learn more about you, brother. But an assignment is an assignment!"
• Dornal laughs out loud.
• Caah looks around, identifying her assigned team members. She looks at Aleyd for a second but diverts her eyes quickly once Neya meets her gaze.
• Aleyd looks stoic. She is likely avoiding giving any signs of approval or disapproval.
• Harper catches Utar's attention for a brief second and points discreetly at Brother Keefe, indicating he'll have a chance to look into his team mate sooner than expected.
• Chaab seems relieved that Graxx kept his word and that he won't need to accompany CRAP directly.
• Olisara keeps her feelings to herself. It is hard to say what she might be thinking.
• Brother Keefe sweats profusely, looking at the wall sconces as to blame them for a sudden rise in temperature.

(OOC: At this point you are welcome to continue conversing and gathering info or we can move forward.)

Being intercepted by Zern before he crosses to Aleyd, Utar returns the greeting, "Assignments are assignments, but for now we likely have time for a drink and to swap some stories. What are you drinking?"

Doozey to Dornal: Even Doozey couldn't help but grin at Dronal's assertions, though it is a fleeting one. As for the belt, it gets quietly filed away without a word. For as odd as it was to see on a dwarf, funnily enough, Graxx' more robust figure spoke for itself.

The matter aside, Doozey only sips his ale every now and then, if only to out to hospitable. But he listens with rapt attention. "I see... Well, with Neya's help and a bit of Luck, we aughta be in and out within a long tune." He said, slipping into some halfling idiom without really thinking about it. When next he tried to continue on, there's a moment's hesitation, followed a simple shake of the head. "But thank you, Mr. Whitebeard. For everything.  I'll be sure to pass this along to the others. Which speaking of which, and given the limited time we have to plan, I should be gathering them up for the final decision. I would say try not to enjoy yourself too much now, but this is supposed to be a party I suppose." He jests, and then following a final bow, again would look for Villonah to make sure little changed prior to meeting up with the others.

When it would later come to Graxx' exuberant announcement, Doozey cannot help but cringe and rub at an arm for the final -- and in his opinion, perhaps a little cheesy -- line. Discomfort grows into confusion upon noting some looks directed at him. But they are soon brushed aside to focus on looking to the others with a 'what now' kind of look.

Graxx slowly puts his back to a wall and scans the room over his drink.

What a group of individuals that have gathered.  So many have appeared in his life before which has lead to this moment.  It must be destiny...  He hopes that we will all be gathered around together again once the Dragon is dead... Surely some will fall... Maybe even himself... But the battle will be mighty.

Graxx looks at Chaab once more.  He’s tempted to press the Drow for more information.  Chaab may know more about these Northern Tribes allying with the Cult.  This Northern Tribe... His tribe... If they survive the next mission maybe he will ask him then.

Graxx keeps his back to wall and smiles and nods as people pass by allowing his more social companions to converse as long as he likes.

Just before Graxx's announcement:

"I suppose it makes sense that the dragon is attempting to get support from local threats. But, outside of the Cult of the Dragon and whomever they have coerced to join them, it doesn't seem to be reaching out very far, if at all, outside of the forest. Maybe it's to hide its and its allies action until strike? But, it still seems rather limiting."

After Graxx's announcement:

After hearing Graxx suddenly call out the assignments in a boistrous manner, Neya gives a resigned sigh.

"I guess we now know the general plans. It's time to speak specifics for each, yes?" She says, speaking to no one in particular.