At any given time, there are dozens of sloops anchored near the docks at least, and ships come and go frequently. In the spring, it is many a captain's prerogative is to unload, load, and move on, taking on supply for maintenance while underway. However, some do take more of a beating than the crew can handle, and pull in for extended repair. Carpenters and smiths have a limitless amount of work at this time- not even prolific use of Mending and Fabricate could satisfy the sheer number of smaller vessels tied to piers, some still half-floating due to such mooring. This evening, a steam-powered tugboat drags away one such old caravel to be scuttled. Thuldor finds the most of such work comes to the south side of the docks, near the guild's large forge. Some of the ships at the extended southern docks have been moored for so long that they've become semi-permanent businesses as inns, brothels and clubs, something of a small floating extension of the city.
First, you have another day of work ahead of you to complete the second forge. As Karnath promised, the supplies to complete the little project arrive early in the morning, allowing Thuldor and Cobalt to complete it by mid-day. Both your efforts go very well today, knowing exactly what you need to do to finish your work. The efficiency of your work and the fresh setup of the forge attracts a small gathering of aspirants looking for an alternative to sailing work, offering to work under the two of you for 35 gold so long as you have work for them. It seems someone referenced you to them- this is a good deal if you're willing to train them later. The group of 5 are presently of poor skill as craftsmen, but at least know the names of some of the tools. Until trained, they can create labor. However, you don't need to accept them, and in so doing, can instead stockpile 2 labor for later use. Other workers have noticed your efforts, but largely remain dedicated to their own work at the first forge.
Cobalt advances his study of the process to scribe a feat into the tome. Another day or two at this pace will complete the study.
Falhorn
Today you work to fill the stall with actual goods- at least enough jewelry and wearable kick-knacks to constitute business. Hose Petiare served the letter of the contract- they do have a stock that you can use, but you easily discern that the entire guild is also a mock-up. They certainly have another agenda in mind. Your following business with Oonderbite in fencing makes the situation obvious: the rulers of Triolo, the Biblitori, are deliberately controlling this market, though you can only guess why. You find yourself in an unanticipated high-stakes position- Elven jewelry, in particular, would be your contraband.
You're merely introduced to the situation through personal observation. Still, your efforts today bear some tangible fruit, and you have about half the stock of what you'd consider to be ideal to start operating- but more significantly, noticed a few potential customers as a fence. The poor damsels of Triolo have gone too long without good attention to their needs.
Midnight
Assuming you spend 65 gold to handle the debts the scofflaws yourself, today you meet with the loan shark. It takes the entire morning just to find and arrange a meeting in the afternoon. The well-dressed man, Mearceaza, looks to be able to handle his own muscle work, but is still accompanied by two thugs when you meet. Still, he is affable, agreeing that you'll be giving them gainful employ and to leave them alone while they work for you. He likes James' personality by the sound of it, and shares a drink while enjoying the company of a dancer. You let your scofflaws know that you've settled the debts, and tomorrow you'll coordinate them for gathering information through the city.
Lailah
((Just to be sure, the cost is for a team of 5, not individuals. So if you spent 190 GP, you have 5 well trained soldiers. As long as you intend to train the hopefuls, we could cross the cost between them- 2 trained soldiers and 3 hopefuls will be 142 GP. You could hire 5 more hopefuls for 110 GP. Either way, today you'll be working with them in training!))
You gather what you need and go out the south gate, setting up training aids. Through the morning and to the afternoon, your small team makes use of the open space outside the walls before the farmland. In the evening, the soldiers celebrate your employ, remarking their luck at being hired by such a large and powerful woman, toasting to you and Mavros, the War God, husband to Hecate.
"Praise Mavros! With such luck to protect on land instead of languishing on a ship!"
Arabella
Today's work proves just as difficult, but you still earn 14 silver today as well.
The tabby takes kindly to Arabella, but seems more to visit in curiosity rather than a sense of admiration. "A rat-man arrived today. Unlike mice, this one moved like an owl, watchful and calm. Witches, walking dead, Lizard-men, Fish-men, Bird-men, Cow-men, and now Rat-men? Now I've seen everything. The rat-man was looking for something different. Waiting. I wonder what for? It was more patient than I was, though, so I came to visit you."
Unless Thuldor objects, Cobalt would not hesitate to cover the 35 gp to hire the apprentices. There was clearly plenty of work in this town and even unskilled laborers would undoubtedly prove valuable.
Besides, if they were to linger in this town for long, it would do well to become a member of the community - a fair and valued employer.
For now he would do only the bare minimum of training to make them useful around the shop - his focus was on the Tome's manual, and he suspected Thuldor would at least keep them in line. Feeling his continued progress, heb spend the next evening studying with renewed zeal - he was so close now.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Another medical problem. Indefinite hiatus. Sorry, all.
Thuldor heartily approved Cobalt's choice to hire the apprentices. He set out about making a training schedule and program for their strengths and weaknesses. It was one thing to know how to use a tool, but to proficiently use the CORRECT tool for the job, was a lifetime endeavor. The strongest would heat and smith the shape, the dexterous would sharpen and polish. Those without either will be taught to make handles. In a week, everyone would take the opposite for double the amount of time. Eventually, everyone would do every job.
Or at least, that was the plan. He'd found out that he didn't necessarily have to split from Cobalt to do ship repairs. It would make good sense to bring such work here, or to setup another shop over there, and bring that work into the fold. He did, however, have suspicions about trusting apprentices to make ship repairs. Two masters was one thing, but such apprentices were unrefined, untested. If they messed up, that was much worse than a sword bouncing off. After all, you could still beat someone to death with a blunt sword, but a sinking ship is a done deal.
Thuldor's next two days...
For now, Thuldor will spend two full days finishing the forge with cobalt and instructing the apprentices.
On the first day, they will clean, learn about the different tools and how to identify good metal. It will be an all day thing as he walks around the shop going: "This is a _, it is used for _, this is how you maintain it."followed by "This type of metal is _, its good for _, and here because _"
For the two or three that really show talent with this skill, on the second day he'll trust them with going, AS A GROUP, to the best source in town they can find and buying some metal for the five to work on once the forge is done. They'll be responsible for the quality of the metal, and he trusts them to spend all day thinking about as its going to define what kind of stuff is coming out of the forge. He'll tell them so directly, so they don't think he's just giving them busy work and they take it seriously.
The two or three that stay, who aren't as gifted with metallurgy, on the second day he will be shown them the finer points of assembling a work space, including installing metal on the walls for fireproofing, making water readily available, bending metal pipes for such water and smoke\steam to escape\enter, etc. They'll be responsible for the forges continued operation, If any of these systems fail, the forge has to stop, and that means everyone just lost income. As before, he'll tell them so directly, so they don't think he's just giving them busy work and they take it seriously.
At some point the forge will be finished by the end of the second day, and he'll let them all know what he thinks of their work, and that they will each be making a sword very soon.
He's hoping these efforts will be sufficient to get a really nice shop rolling while also giving Cobalt time to research. At some point he'd also offer to pay for the apprentices as well. It was after all a team effort.
Your study of the process intensifies- you're close to completing the studies, when in review, you've found what you believe to be an inconsistency. After hours of inconclusive tackling of the problem, you hear the tiny whirring inside your head rise to a point that warns you to slow down, and turn your attention to winding the tiny bits that keep your body and mind functioning. While you've helped train on the 3rd, you end the day worrying that the tome's instructions are flawed.
The next day proves that a little time gives the opportunity for a fresh perspective. The inconsistency Cobalt observed proves to be far more simple than perceived, and with that, is easily able to wrap up his study. The book would be required to perform the work on the tome, but this book can be copied if desired.
The process follows a strict order, and the tome erases faulty - or false - entries. This is a workday to perform, requiring intimate knowledge of how to train the feat. Such understanding normally requires days of interaction with the bearer of the feat to recall all the details required, but it can be concealed that the nature of the questions is for a magic process. You and Falhorn now both understand the process.
Thuldor:
While both days could have been more productive, you're able to assure that the apprentices absorb the basic understanding required to make use of them in some of the more labor intensive aspects of metallurgy. While a far cry from being able to craft swords (profitably), this is a solid first couple steps toward that. Two of the five prove to have a stronger grasp of what it means to get metal out of rocks by throwing them in a fire, and the other three are up to the task of fireproofing and attending to critical elements of manual forge work. Both days are otherwise uneventful.
Falhorn:
On the 3rd, you finish preparing the stall as your front, but the day is otherwise uneventful.
The guild checks on you to see how you're doing on the 4th. The young man who checks on you on their behalf, Rid-vos, works with one of the wealthy merchant families associated with the Winged Lion Company. He acts discerning, noting that the stall makes a convincing front- with the same quality of goods as the other jewelry sellers. He offers himself as your first 'real' customer in Triolo, asking for an Elven circlet for the Rites of Spring late this month. He wishes it to be the crown for a child in a certain festival in the Rites, as a statement from the merchants to the Biblitori.
"The more noticeably it is, the better. Every year the merchants make a point to give the Child-King or Queen a piece to remind the Biblitori that merchants get what they want. This year isn't special, but it's been getting more difficult to make the point. Your arrival, I understand, might make this more doable. I understand it's a little more risky to get something obviously illegal- but it sure would be the way to prove you're up to the job."
Midnight:
The scofflaws understand your intent, forming the start of a branch of intelligence. All 5 already have several contacts in the city, the least they'd be able to do is if anything causes a stir, they should be up on it in short time. Their former debt turns into debt to you with the potential threat of turning Mearceaza loose on them, for now. This lot will be easy to control, so long as someone willing to take advantage of others is able to manage them. For now, that is you.
Right away they start revealing some contacts to you, largely inconsequential now, but enough to show that they can get information on operations and behaviors in several places in the city- including the Winged Lion Company. With so much dealing in bulk, they care little for internal security beyond personnel protection and asset management. Unlike the many other wealthy in the city, they care little for secrets and are largely concerned only with the caravan leaders and captains. The one with the contact in the Winged Lions doesn't seem to think much of them as being important to the information net. They would be good for news and details from abroad, but little more than that.
By the end of the 4th, they've worked to reinforce their own contacts and picked up on scheduled departures in the near future where large sums of value are involved- including some mercenary companies. While the scale of the information they've started with is good, you notice a lack from the more secretive organizations- notably including any working for the Biblitori, the ruling state of Triolo. It is as if a lot of noise is being generated to hide other agendas.
Not counting the contact in the Winged Lion Company, you generate 3 influence with them.
Arabella:
You continue two more days of work. On the 3rd, you're given a supply of an uncommon herbs to work with, which you make good use of to earn 27 silver. The next day is back to difficult work, gaining a 15 silver split for the day's work. You're able to envision a way to adjust the workspace to better suit you temporarily- but it really would be better to make a new one, or expand the room available, which would take you considerable effort... unless...
The orange tabby visits again on the 4th day.
"I caught the scent of the rat-man again at night. It must have something to do with you. He is looking for a witch who sells spells that stay on things, like your potions. That is why he was not speaking to others! Should I show you to the rat-man? He is so easy to find."
Lailah:
Finishing the training of the 3 young aspirants consumes 24 gold in the days leading up to the end of the 4th, but you feel the effort was worth it. The five of them should be prepared to face threats that commoners would flee from without hesitation- and fight with cohesion that many adventurers lack. While they are not of the caliber of adventurers, they will do their part with bravery and grit. For now, they have their own homes to go to while in Triolo. The five of them are eager to prove their prowess- they know you're much stronger than them, but seem to think they might give you a challenge, one vs five.
You know they wouldn't. Even holding back on your powers, you could take them on single-handedly with their current equipment. It's not that they're weak... you're just that strong.
Arabella rewards the tabby with some fish. "You are such a helpful kitty," she says. She considers its offer. There's certainly a risk when it comes to dealing with magic, but she can always wild shape into something small and run away if things go south. She smiles. "Take me to this rat-man. If he is looking for me, I might as well surprise him instead."
James goes over his desires for the network, the kinds of people who would be good choices for possible inclusion into the network, stretching through every strata of society.
He also goes over the structure of the network, how they are directly central to the network here in Triolo. He makes sure that they understand, that those in the network are to be looked after, and helped to get ahead, but if anyone tries to leave, well, the implications are clear, no one leaves the network.
"As you gather information I expect you to use your initiative, if the information is time critical, reach out to those who we could possible sell it to."
"Keep good working relations with the local thieves guild, I expect they will be one of our primary customers."
"But also keep your eyes and ears open for other opportunities, sometimes we may have information we could sell, or trade for future collaborations, with merchants or the like."
"If we can help some to get ahead with inside information, we may build better relations with them, or possibly gain some leverage over them."
"And don't pass up opportunities to acquire both short term and long term income, when blackmail opportunities arise."
"Don't be greedy though, we are playing for the long game. Better to milk the cow every day, than to kill it and feast for only a night."
"Also, be careful, not every blackmail target is to be trifled with, make sure you and the rest of the network are safe."
"If a target gets dangerous, cut all contact and release the information, we want the word to get around that we are true to our word."
James also shares his own information, about possible targets for investigation for inclusion into the network, collected from his time spent exploring the city over the last few days.
Seeing the network is well under way, James decides to make contact with the members of the undertaking, starting with Falhorn.
"So this is your new place, nice. How's trade."
James gives Falhorn a big smile.
"Can we talk, perhaps in the back?"
James indicates the tent/wagon at the rear of the stall.
Cobalt spends a little more time helping Thuldor and the apprentices the next day. He had less of an eye for people and for traditional craftsmanship but he could tell the master smith's guidance was bearing fruit.
He does take an hour or two to inquire about Falhorn at the tavern where they all first met. If he finds some success, he would return the booklet personally, explaining that curiosity had gotten the better of him and he had meant to return it immediately but that work at the smith had distracted him. Obviously Falhorn was meant to utilize it when necessary.
He would also provide Falhorn with the address of their forge (though the intelligent man undoubtedly already knew) in case they had to get in touch again.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Another medical problem. Indefinite hiatus. Sorry, all.
Thuldor will focus some of his efforts on training the two apprentices that showed talent in selecting quality ore and smelting quality metal bars directly. He'll begin testing them, putting each bar made under heavy scrutiny and collecting only the best of their works. He'll total their "worthy" amounts, and let them know how they did, before shoving the rejects back into the foundry, and starting them over again.
"Even the worst iron ore can be steel, if worked hard enough."
In every moment he can around that, he'll assist the other three with their duties. He is aware that they'll need further actual blacksmith training like the others but right now he needs to make this place a working forge and secure good metal in that order. He can afford to only use two on metal for now.
Unlike other days, this day is due additional interactions before proceeding.
Cobalt and Thuldor:
Falhorn shows up, but only briefly- he informs you that he'll be focusing on his own work and remain in touch on this project as a secondary endeavor- and he'd like to be paid for his services if it's too dangerous. Essentially, he tells you that he's quitting. He lets you keep the booklet, and promises he'll offer his services insomuch as to wash his hands of it.
The specialized instruction between the both of you is slow today, as it seems your laborers have the wrong ideas on a lot of things and it takes some figuring out. Cobalt's more scientific thinking is especially handy here. Still, they've reached a point that they're a capable team in the forge. You have been noticed as an upcoming team of highly capable craftsmen, as Karnath (the dwarf guild representative) mentions.
"The other smiths saw that group of sailors turning out steel. Concisely, they've asked that they look the part and dress appropriately- stop coming in haphazardly washed rags and hire the dentist. I'll show them to her right away, before they go home, if you're keen on them continuing. I've already made the arrangement. And, good work. I have something else arranged for them, and you..."
The materials and other expenses over the last 3 days comes to 44 gold total including some recovery and today's expenses for both of you, but at the end of the day, you're now confident they can produce quality steel and ordinary metal craft. In addition to labor, they now can produce goods and are considerably more competent (from a +2 to the daily check to their results to a +4. by comparison, you guys work at least at +6 on a d10 roll).
Work for your small team has already been qued by Karnath: a merchant ship, the Teviot, is upgrading with swivel cannons, and require appropriate mounts to specification. The guns are behind schedule, so your team doing this would speed things up. Triolo continues operating at high capacity, continually serving the unending line of ships coming and going. There are no guild fees for this.
"Are you ready for it tomorrow?" Karnath asks.
Otherwise, the day is uneventful.
Midnight:
Falhorn accepts your self invitation.
"James. I'll be up-front. This tome gig isn't exactly what I had in mind. Triolo has some lucrative options for me. So I'll offer my service at a discount for you. I'll be around for a while, and if the gearforged needs some help working that tome, I can help you out."
It is clear by the brief interaction that Falhorn is not interested in directly working with you as a party member, but as an associate. He might be useful, but it's clear that he's working toward his own, separate goals now. At least he seems to have no intent in sabotaging you.
Your team expands their nets with particular focus on potential informants on influential persons. You've gained 3 more influence, totaling 6. You now have enough contacts within reach to find most available specialists without much effort- including the magic wielding and less-than-lawful sort. Already they've made some coin for themselves, working for you, but not to your profit. Your daily expense continues.
Otherwise the day is uneventful.
Arabella:
This morning the tabby leads you to where it last saw the ratman and begins searching. He's found in the middle of breakfast by some dock warehouses belonging to the Winged Lion Company, nibbling slowly on a slice of cheese while sitting on an empty crate. The ratman wears clean clothes and studded leather, a rapier laying across his lap as he looks westward to the ocean. Despite being the only ratman around, his relaxed demeanor and combed fur makes him seem a natural part of Triolo, paying little mind to workers as they load carts and sort goods. The tabby looks to you to be sure you see the creature, then dashes off. While the ratman sees Arabella from down the street, it seems to care little more for her than the dock hands, continuing to nibble contentedly.
Perception: Although he outwardly seems at ease, the ratman is alert of the surroundings. The way it puts a hand on the rapier between nibbles indicates an underlying sense of danger, like an animal at a watering hole.
With a smile on his face and a proud aura about him, Thuldor cheerfully toasts to the days successes. The smiths had been trained and he could now turn his attention elsewhere for a moment. The ships seemed to be a good source for connecting with people, and the guild appeared to be his way into the social graces. Following Falhorn's lead, maybe it would be a good idea for Thuldor to get involved with politics.
While this runs through his head, Thuldor mentions nothing of it. He smiles at Karnath and accepts.
Arabella approaches the ratman cautiously. As he approaches, she leans heavily on her staff, trying to give a false impression that she is frailer than she actually is. She coughs to get his attention. “I hear we might have commercial interests in common, sir,” she says. ”What can old Arabella do for you?”
2nd day, 3rd month of Spring, 470 AR
Thuldor and Cobalt
At any given time, there are dozens of sloops anchored near the docks at least, and ships come and go frequently. In the spring, it is many a captain's prerogative is to unload, load, and move on, taking on supply for maintenance while underway. However, some do take more of a beating than the crew can handle, and pull in for extended repair. Carpenters and smiths have a limitless amount of work at this time- not even prolific use of Mending and Fabricate could satisfy the sheer number of smaller vessels tied to piers, some still half-floating due to such mooring. This evening, a steam-powered tugboat drags away one such old caravel to be scuttled. Thuldor finds the most of such work comes to the south side of the docks, near the guild's large forge. Some of the ships at the extended southern docks have been moored for so long that they've become semi-permanent businesses as inns, brothels and clubs, something of a small floating extension of the city.
First, you have another day of work ahead of you to complete the second forge. As Karnath promised, the supplies to complete the little project arrive early in the morning, allowing Thuldor and Cobalt to complete it by mid-day. Both your efforts go very well today, knowing exactly what you need to do to finish your work. The efficiency of your work and the fresh setup of the forge attracts a small gathering of aspirants looking for an alternative to sailing work, offering to work under the two of you for 35 gold so long as you have work for them. It seems someone referenced you to them- this is a good deal if you're willing to train them later. The group of 5 are presently of poor skill as craftsmen, but at least know the names of some of the tools. Until trained, they can create labor. However, you don't need to accept them, and in so doing, can instead stockpile 2 labor for later use. Other workers have noticed your efforts, but largely remain dedicated to their own work at the first forge.
Cobalt advances his study of the process to scribe a feat into the tome. Another day or two at this pace will complete the study.
Falhorn
Today you work to fill the stall with actual goods- at least enough jewelry and wearable kick-knacks to constitute business. Hose Petiare served the letter of the contract- they do have a stock that you can use, but you easily discern that the entire guild is also a mock-up. They certainly have another agenda in mind. Your following business with Oonderbite in fencing makes the situation obvious: the rulers of Triolo, the Biblitori, are deliberately controlling this market, though you can only guess why. You find yourself in an unanticipated high-stakes position- Elven jewelry, in particular, would be your contraband.
You're merely introduced to the situation through personal observation. Still, your efforts today bear some tangible fruit, and you have about half the stock of what you'd consider to be ideal to start operating- but more significantly, noticed a few potential customers as a fence. The poor damsels of Triolo have gone too long without good attention to their needs.
Midnight
Assuming you spend 65 gold to handle the debts the scofflaws yourself, today you meet with the loan shark. It takes the entire morning just to find and arrange a meeting in the afternoon. The well-dressed man, Mearceaza, looks to be able to handle his own muscle work, but is still accompanied by two thugs when you meet. Still, he is affable, agreeing that you'll be giving them gainful employ and to leave them alone while they work for you. He likes James' personality by the sound of it, and shares a drink while enjoying the company of a dancer. You let your scofflaws know that you've settled the debts, and tomorrow you'll coordinate them for gathering information through the city.
Lailah
((Just to be sure, the cost is for a team of 5, not individuals. So if you spent 190 GP, you have 5 well trained soldiers. As long as you intend to train the hopefuls, we could cross the cost between them- 2 trained soldiers and 3 hopefuls will be 142 GP. You could hire 5 more hopefuls for 110 GP. Either way, today you'll be working with them in training!))
You gather what you need and go out the south gate, setting up training aids. Through the morning and to the afternoon, your small team makes use of the open space outside the walls before the farmland. In the evening, the soldiers celebrate your employ, remarking their luck at being hired by such a large and powerful woman, toasting to you and Mavros, the War God, husband to Hecate.
"Praise Mavros! With such luck to protect on land instead of languishing on a ship!"
Arabella
Today's work proves just as difficult, but you still earn 14 silver today as well.
The tabby takes kindly to Arabella, but seems more to visit in curiosity rather than a sense of admiration. "A rat-man arrived today. Unlike mice, this one moved like an owl, watchful and calm. Witches, walking dead, Lizard-men, Fish-men, Bird-men, Cow-men, and now Rat-men? Now I've seen everything. The rat-man was looking for something different. Waiting. I wonder what for? It was more patient than I was, though, so I came to visit you."
Unless Thuldor objects, Cobalt would not hesitate to cover the 35 gp to hire the apprentices. There was clearly plenty of work in this town and even unskilled laborers would undoubtedly prove valuable.
Besides, if they were to linger in this town for long, it would do well to become a member of the community - a fair and valued employer.
For now he would do only the bare minimum of training to make them useful around the shop - his focus was on the Tome's manual, and he suspected Thuldor would at least keep them in line. Feeling his continued progress, heb spend the next evening studying with renewed zeal - he was so close now.
Another medical problem. Indefinite hiatus. Sorry, all.
Thuldor heartily approved Cobalt's choice to hire the apprentices. He set out about making a training schedule and program for their strengths and weaknesses. It was one thing to know how to use a tool, but to proficiently use the CORRECT tool for the job, was a lifetime endeavor. The strongest would heat and smith the shape, the dexterous would sharpen and polish. Those without either will be taught to make handles. In a week, everyone would take the opposite for double the amount of time. Eventually, everyone would do every job.
Or at least, that was the plan. He'd found out that he didn't necessarily have to split from Cobalt to do ship repairs. It would make good sense to bring such work here, or to setup another shop over there, and bring that work into the fold. He did, however, have suspicions about trusting apprentices to make ship repairs. Two masters was one thing, but such apprentices were unrefined, untested. If they messed up, that was much worse than a sword bouncing off. After all, you could still beat someone to death with a blunt sword, but a sinking ship is a done deal.
Thuldor's next two days...
For now, Thuldor will spend two full days finishing the forge with cobalt and instructing the apprentices.
On the first day, they will clean, learn about the different tools and how to identify good metal. It will be an all day thing as he walks around the shop going: "This is a _, it is used for _, this is how you maintain it." followed by "This type of metal is _, its good for _, and here because _"
For the two or three that really show talent with this skill, on the second day he'll trust them with going, AS A GROUP, to the best source in town they can find and buying some metal for the five to work on once the forge is done. They'll be responsible for the quality of the metal, and he trusts them to spend all day thinking about as its going to define what kind of stuff is coming out of the forge. He'll tell them so directly, so they don't think he's just giving them busy work and they take it seriously.
The two or three that stay, who aren't as gifted with metallurgy, on the second day he will be shown them the finer points of assembling a work space, including installing metal on the walls for fireproofing, making water readily available, bending metal pipes for such water and smoke\steam to escape\enter, etc. They'll be responsible for the forges continued operation, If any of these systems fail, the forge has to stop, and that means everyone just lost income. As before, he'll tell them so directly, so they don't think he's just giving them busy work and they take it seriously.
At some point the forge will be finished by the end of the second day, and he'll let them all know what he thinks of their work, and that they will each be making a sword very soon.
He's hoping these efforts will be sufficient to get a really nice shop rolling while also giving Cobalt time to research. At some point he'd also offer to pay for the apprentices as well. It was after all a team effort.
3rd-4th day, 3rd month of Spring, 470 AR
Cobalt:
Your study of the process intensifies- you're close to completing the studies, when in review, you've found what you believe to be an inconsistency. After hours of inconclusive tackling of the problem, you hear the tiny whirring inside your head rise to a point that warns you to slow down, and turn your attention to winding the tiny bits that keep your body and mind functioning. While you've helped train on the 3rd, you end the day worrying that the tome's instructions are flawed.
The next day proves that a little time gives the opportunity for a fresh perspective. The inconsistency Cobalt observed proves to be far more simple than perceived, and with that, is easily able to wrap up his study. The book would be required to perform the work on the tome, but this book can be copied if desired.
The process follows a strict order, and the tome erases faulty - or false - entries. This is a workday to perform, requiring intimate knowledge of how to train the feat. Such understanding normally requires days of interaction with the bearer of the feat to recall all the details required, but it can be concealed that the nature of the questions is for a magic process. You and Falhorn now both understand the process.
Thuldor:
While both days could have been more productive, you're able to assure that the apprentices absorb the basic understanding required to make use of them in some of the more labor intensive aspects of metallurgy. While a far cry from being able to craft swords (profitably), this is a solid first couple steps toward that. Two of the five prove to have a stronger grasp of what it means to get metal out of rocks by throwing them in a fire, and the other three are up to the task of fireproofing and attending to critical elements of manual forge work. Both days are otherwise uneventful.
Falhorn:
On the 3rd, you finish preparing the stall as your front, but the day is otherwise uneventful.
The guild checks on you to see how you're doing on the 4th. The young man who checks on you on their behalf, Rid-vos, works with one of the wealthy merchant families associated with the Winged Lion Company. He acts discerning, noting that the stall makes a convincing front- with the same quality of goods as the other jewelry sellers. He offers himself as your first 'real' customer in Triolo, asking for an Elven circlet for the Rites of Spring late this month. He wishes it to be the crown for a child in a certain festival in the Rites, as a statement from the merchants to the Biblitori.
"The more noticeably it is, the better. Every year the merchants make a point to give the Child-King or Queen a piece to remind the Biblitori that merchants get what they want. This year isn't special, but it's been getting more difficult to make the point. Your arrival, I understand, might make this more doable. I understand it's a little more risky to get something obviously illegal- but it sure would be the way to prove you're up to the job."
Midnight:
The scofflaws understand your intent, forming the start of a branch of intelligence. All 5 already have several contacts in the city, the least they'd be able to do is if anything causes a stir, they should be up on it in short time. Their former debt turns into debt to you with the potential threat of turning Mearceaza loose on them, for now. This lot will be easy to control, so long as someone willing to take advantage of others is able to manage them. For now, that is you.
Right away they start revealing some contacts to you, largely inconsequential now, but enough to show that they can get information on operations and behaviors in several places in the city- including the Winged Lion Company. With so much dealing in bulk, they care little for internal security beyond personnel protection and asset management. Unlike the many other wealthy in the city, they care little for secrets and are largely concerned only with the caravan leaders and captains. The one with the contact in the Winged Lions doesn't seem to think much of them as being important to the information net. They would be good for news and details from abroad, but little more than that.
By the end of the 4th, they've worked to reinforce their own contacts and picked up on scheduled departures in the near future where large sums of value are involved- including some mercenary companies. While the scale of the information they've started with is good, you notice a lack from the more secretive organizations- notably including any working for the Biblitori, the ruling state of Triolo. It is as if a lot of noise is being generated to hide other agendas.
Not counting the contact in the Winged Lion Company, you generate 3 influence with them.
Arabella:
You continue two more days of work. On the 3rd, you're given a supply of an uncommon herbs to work with, which you make good use of to earn 27 silver. The next day is back to difficult work, gaining a 15 silver split for the day's work. You're able to envision a way to adjust the workspace to better suit you temporarily- but it really would be better to make a new one, or expand the room available, which would take you considerable effort... unless...
The orange tabby visits again on the 4th day.
"I caught the scent of the rat-man again at night. It must have something to do with you. He is looking for a witch who sells spells that stay on things, like your potions. That is why he was not speaking to others! Should I show you to the rat-man? He is so easy to find."
Lailah:
Finishing the training of the 3 young aspirants consumes 24 gold in the days leading up to the end of the 4th, but you feel the effort was worth it. The five of them should be prepared to face threats that commoners would flee from without hesitation- and fight with cohesion that many adventurers lack. While they are not of the caliber of adventurers, they will do their part with bravery and grit. For now, they have their own homes to go to while in Triolo. The five of them are eager to prove their prowess- they know you're much stronger than them, but seem to think they might give you a challenge, one vs five.
You know they wouldn't. Even holding back on your powers, you could take them on single-handedly with their current equipment. It's not that they're weak... you're just that strong.
Arabella rewards the tabby with some fish. "You are such a helpful kitty," she says. She considers its offer. There's certainly a risk when it comes to dealing with magic, but she can always wild shape into something small and run away if things go south. She smiles. "Take me to this rat-man. If he is looking for me, I might as well surprise him instead."
James goes over his desires for the network, the kinds of people who would be good choices for possible inclusion into the network, stretching through every strata of society.
He also goes over the structure of the network, how they are directly central to the network here in Triolo. He makes sure that they understand, that those in the network are to be looked after, and helped to get ahead, but if anyone tries to leave, well, the implications are clear, no one leaves the network.
"As you gather information I expect you to use your initiative, if the information is time critical, reach out to those who we could possible sell it to."
"Keep good working relations with the local thieves guild, I expect they will be one of our primary customers."
"But also keep your eyes and ears open for other opportunities, sometimes we may have information we could sell, or trade for future collaborations, with merchants or the like."
"If we can help some to get ahead with inside information, we may build better relations with them, or possibly gain some leverage over them."
"And don't pass up opportunities to acquire both short term and long term income, when blackmail opportunities arise."
"Don't be greedy though, we are playing for the long game. Better to milk the cow every day, than to kill it and feast for only a night."
"Also, be careful, not every blackmail target is to be trifled with, make sure you and the rest of the network are safe."
"If a target gets dangerous, cut all contact and release the information, we want the word to get around that we are true to our word."
James also shares his own information, about possible targets for investigation for inclusion into the network, collected from his time spent exploring the city over the last few days.
Seeing the network is well under way, James decides to make contact with the members of the undertaking, starting with Falhorn.
"So this is your new place, nice. How's trade."
James gives Falhorn a big smile.
"Can we talk, perhaps in the back?"
James indicates the tent/wagon at the rear of the stall.
David Gearlock | Human | Artificer | Revenge Heist
Knox | Warforged | Cleric | Shadowthorn's Out of the Abyss
Cobalt spends a little more time helping Thuldor and the apprentices the next day. He had less of an eye for people and for traditional craftsmanship but he could tell the master smith's guidance was bearing fruit.
He does take an hour or two to inquire about Falhorn at the tavern where they all first met. If he finds some success, he would return the booklet personally, explaining that curiosity had gotten the better of him and he had meant to return it immediately but that work at the smith had distracted him. Obviously Falhorn was meant to utilize it when necessary.
He would also provide Falhorn with the address of their forge (though the intelligent man undoubtedly already knew) in case they had to get in touch again.
Another medical problem. Indefinite hiatus. Sorry, all.
Thuldor will focus some of his efforts on training the two apprentices that showed talent in selecting quality ore and smelting quality metal bars directly. He'll begin testing them, putting each bar made under heavy scrutiny and collecting only the best of their works. He'll total their "worthy" amounts, and let them know how they did, before shoving the rejects back into the foundry, and starting them over again.
"Even the worst iron ore can be steel, if worked hard enough."
In every moment he can around that, he'll assist the other three with their duties. He is aware that they'll need further actual blacksmith training like the others but right now he needs to make this place a working forge and secure good metal in that order. He can afford to only use two on metal for now.
5th day, 3rd month of Spring, 470 AR
Unlike other days, this day is due additional interactions before proceeding.
Cobalt and Thuldor:
Falhorn shows up, but only briefly- he informs you that he'll be focusing on his own work and remain in touch on this project as a secondary endeavor- and he'd like to be paid for his services if it's too dangerous. Essentially, he tells you that he's quitting. He lets you keep the booklet, and promises he'll offer his services insomuch as to wash his hands of it.
The specialized instruction between the both of you is slow today, as it seems your laborers have the wrong ideas on a lot of things and it takes some figuring out. Cobalt's more scientific thinking is especially handy here. Still, they've reached a point that they're a capable team in the forge. You have been noticed as an upcoming team of highly capable craftsmen, as Karnath (the dwarf guild representative) mentions.
"The other smiths saw that group of sailors turning out steel. Concisely, they've asked that they look the part and dress appropriately- stop coming in haphazardly washed rags and hire the dentist. I'll show them to her right away, before they go home, if you're keen on them continuing. I've already made the arrangement. And, good work. I have something else arranged for them, and you..."
The materials and other expenses over the last 3 days comes to 44 gold total including some recovery and today's expenses for both of you, but at the end of the day, you're now confident they can produce quality steel and ordinary metal craft. In addition to labor, they now can produce goods and are considerably more competent (from a +2 to the daily check to their results to a +4. by comparison, you guys work at least at +6 on a d10 roll).
Work for your small team has already been qued by Karnath: a merchant ship, the Teviot, is upgrading with swivel cannons, and require appropriate mounts to specification. The guns are behind schedule, so your team doing this would speed things up. Triolo continues operating at high capacity, continually serving the unending line of ships coming and going. There are no guild fees for this.
"Are you ready for it tomorrow?" Karnath asks.
Otherwise, the day is uneventful.
Midnight:
Falhorn accepts your self invitation.
"James. I'll be up-front. This tome gig isn't exactly what I had in mind. Triolo has some lucrative options for me. So I'll offer my service at a discount for you. I'll be around for a while, and if the gearforged needs some help working that tome, I can help you out."
It is clear by the brief interaction that Falhorn is not interested in directly working with you as a party member, but as an associate. He might be useful, but it's clear that he's working toward his own, separate goals now. At least he seems to have no intent in sabotaging you.
Your team expands their nets with particular focus on potential informants on influential persons. You've gained 3 more influence, totaling 6. You now have enough contacts within reach to find most available specialists without much effort- including the magic wielding and less-than-lawful sort. Already they've made some coin for themselves, working for you, but not to your profit. Your daily expense continues.
Otherwise the day is uneventful.
Arabella:
This morning the tabby leads you to where it last saw the ratman and begins searching. He's found in the middle of breakfast by some dock warehouses belonging to the Winged Lion Company, nibbling slowly on a slice of cheese while sitting on an empty crate. The ratman wears clean clothes and studded leather, a rapier laying across his lap as he looks westward to the ocean. Despite being the only ratman around, his relaxed demeanor and combed fur makes him seem a natural part of Triolo, paying little mind to workers as they load carts and sort goods. The tabby looks to you to be sure you see the creature, then dashes off. While the ratman sees Arabella from down the street, it seems to care little more for her than the dock hands, continuing to nibble contentedly.
Perception: Although he outwardly seems at ease, the ratman is alert of the surroundings. The way it puts a hand on the rapier between nibbles indicates an underlying sense of danger, like an animal at a watering hole.
With a smile on his face and a proud aura about him, Thuldor cheerfully toasts to the days successes. The smiths had been trained and he could now turn his attention elsewhere for a moment. The ships seemed to be a good source for connecting with people, and the guild appeared to be his way into the social graces. Following Falhorn's lead, maybe it would be a good idea for Thuldor to get involved with politics.
While this runs through his head, Thuldor mentions nothing of it. He smiles at Karnath and accepts.
"Yes, we are ready."
Arabella approaches the ratman cautiously. As he approaches, she leans heavily on her staff, trying to give a false impression that she is frailer than she actually is. She coughs to get his attention. “I hear we might have commercial interests in common, sir,” she says. ”What can old Arabella do for you?”
James nods solemnly at Falhorns confession.
"Ok, well your potential direct involvement will be missed, but I will count you as a contact here in Triolo if we need assistance."
"If you like I will make contact with the other to let them know, if you haven't already let them know."
David Gearlock | Human | Artificer | Revenge Heist
Knox | Warforged | Cleric | Shadowthorn's Out of the Abyss