The waiter takes Elisha's order, making a grand suggestion for the wine pairing and moving on. He returns later, absent the earlier fanfare, yet still presented with all of the grace of a meal well respected. The wine is poured and the tab left.
For such a generous offering of vegetables and wine, not more than 5 sp. After eating you feel full enough that you'd not consider eating soon, and later even seems unlikely. The wine is pleasant yet not overly alcoholic.
You leave the establishment, having feasted well. Wandering about the locals searching for a bed, you can see that there are mostly druids or their kinfolk who live in this camp. They all speak about nature in reverence except for the one or two off and odd ends. In specific, you notice that the Elven church, whom conveniently placed a "WELCOME TRAVELERS" sign that advertised free lodgings, is in fact run by a very strictly NOT druid. When you walk in looking for such a deal, a very clean and well kept marble altar stood proud.
Equally gestured and elegant, a long haired priest in white robes spoke small whispers to his gods. He turned to you and rose his hands in front of the symbol hanging on the wall behind him, giving the illusion that he was lifting it into the sky. A pertinent gesture, identifying this Tree-Chapel as a Church of the Settled Soul.
Of course, the extremely thin coffin shape with three horizontal lines chiseled on each side giving it the appearance of wings on the wall, would have done that as well.
Father Olthir: "Ah, Traverlers! If you've come for the free beds, I ask only that you not sleep in the ones marked for our brother's and sister's lost in High Thane."
He returns to his gesturing and praying, unaware of your intent to stay among the restless dead or not.
(8AM)
Riding up to the Town...
(Genesh & Irenia)
There is a relaxing slow to the Elk's mighty gate and the sudden stop of the numbing wind. Heat returns to your face as does color. When your vision readjusts to the normal world, you can see the well protected river town. Riding up to its gates, the group is not stopped and proceeds directly to the stables. Once dismounted, the leader explains that the town is not physically large enough to house most of the population, so the vast majority of them live in hollowed out tree burrows. He says that he and the other three will be at Pe' Shi's Bar, located farthest from the River. Its noticeably in a tree that is also not connected to the wicker roof, just like the hall. However, unlike the hall, they explain that this place is not connected because druid's do not often visit, not because the tree was cursed and then petrified.
The Leader chuckled calmly as he waved,"Its the only spot in town where you can drink without hearing a speech!!"
When the group walks away from you, you notice a rather knightly individual watching them go towards the bar. This is odd as they carry a metal longsword, something no one in the village, not even the guards, do. They start to approach, rather aggressively.
The leader explains that the Fifth member has some business farther North, and that they were previously hunting on a sanctioned mission. The warden is dismissive of the entire story and explains that they will all need to give an official statement as they are currently suspects.
Leader: "Suspected of what?"
Warden: "You are suspected of wandering the Northern Wood and harassing the humans unnecessarily. If guilty, you will be charged for the Arson that we are currently holding a human for."
Leader: "Ridiculous! Who makes such a claim?"
Warden: "We know you were the only ones in the area at the time, and that two among you are skilled in Alchemical knowledge. You could easily procure and produce an accelerant, the likes of which are involved directly with this case. Your side of the story would clear things up."
Leader: "We are accused by a single individual and must therefore surrender to what? Interogation? Persecution? I think not. I think when you have evidence that you might arrest us, come to Pe'Shi's. Elsewise, we are through speaking."
The leader tries to walk away, and the Warden reaches out to grab him by the wrist.
10
6
The Leader is grabbed the wrist and stopped. He holds a hand out to his followers and turns around calmly.
Leader: "Release me."
There is a tense moment that lingers far too long. The warden doesn't back down.
Genesh watches as the tense moment lingers on far too long, the warden doesn't seem like he is going to back down. The tortle slowly moved closer to be within thirty feet of them if he is not already and casts Create or Destroy Water with the water created falling as rain in a 30-foot cube directly over the group in order to get their attention. Genesh stepped forward and looked at the Warden and bellowed, "release him! Neither he nor his companions have committed any crime. I am called Genesh, one of those sent to investigate the fire and I can vouch for these good men!"
(With a 19, Olwer slips away without anyone noticing. The Highest Passive Perception was 15.)
As Genesh casts the rain cloud, the water begins to pour upon the ground. Thirstily it drank, as if the dirt itself were parched, the falling liquid quenching its great need. Small green sprouts begin to grow rapidly upon the ground. As it did, Father Olthir entered his doorway, now witnessing the scene. He glared daggers at Genesh and his mystic display, displaying a ghoulish scowl upon his face. Several druids took notice of this and quickly cast drying and decaying spells, returning the earth to its dormant state. The spell does achieve the desired effect, however, and Genesh does indeed have the attention of everyone. They all stare at him, including the leader, in a puzzled look. The warden takes the initiative,
Warden: "I would very much appreciate your testimony."
The others remain silent for a moment. Father Olthir, satisficed with the other Druids swift actions, revokes his intended rebuke and returns to his Church. The other druids continue about their day and the town resumes as the warden lets the leader loose. Surprisingly, he sticks around now, possibly wanting to see what Genesh has to say.
The tortle seeing the Warden release the leader, his gaze locks on the Warden and politely responds, "I am most happy to answer any questions that you may have and provide testimony at the time and the place of your choosing. If now is not the time then you will find me and my companion(s) with our friend there at Pe' Shi's Bar."If the Warden has no questions or sets a time and place the tortle will motion to the leader to lead the way to Pe' Shi's...
The Warden would like to separate you from the Group to ask your opinion, she doesn't trust their presence not to influence you. The leader doesn't seem to mind too much, but the others seem weary. To reassure them, the leader states,
Leader: "I believe he would speak well of us, but, I fear this has gotten out of hand. We will go for questioning."
The others, greatly annoyed, let out a collective groan. They begrudgingly follow him and the Warden away. The leader looks back and shouts to Genesh,
Leader: "Hey! If you get a chance, still go see Pe' Shi! He's a really cool guy! Ask him about"the bearded dragon!"
He makes a jokingly terrifying face with his teeth bared, hands raised like cat claws, and a huge smile.
Genesh silently watches as the leader and his companions are lead away by the Warden. The tortle does not acknowledge or respond to the leader's last words but rather without speaking heads off in the direction of Pe' Shi's Bar, as he was earlier informed was located farthest from the river. The others may follow or not, the choice is entirely up to them.
OLWER makes for the docks, where he looks into the cost of passage for a single person and for a party of four.
While there, he passes on to boatmen and travelers the sordid tale of John the Adulterous Arsonist. He adds an invented, yet plausible detail- the tavern/inn fire accidentally set in the brawl burned hot and fast because it set off a cask of distilled spirits and some jars of lantern oil that a servant left in unsafe proximity to a tub of greasy kitchen rags.
Walking about town, you are having some difficulty finding this mythical bar at the back. There's just as many trees and doors as there were by the Tavern and Hall, however, they are less welcoming here. The doors are much heavier, and often closed instead of being left invitingly open.
When you do come across what clearly must be the bar, as there are broken glasses all about the front with a feint but ever pleasant smell of spilled booze.
The door appears solid, unable to be opened from the outside. You knock, and an extremely stocky looking dwarf answers the door. His shoulder muscles so large and clearly well used, it was hard to say if he even had a neck.
Dwarf: "How can I help ya?"
(Olwer)
(At the Docks)
There is a general belief in what you are saying. The four or five people here seem to be getting genuinely convinced by the 2 or 3 that you've totally deceived already. The rumors is spreading like wildfire, and within a day or two your contract should be fulfilled as long as nothing arises to combat the misinformation.
You look around and think about things. You have the option to continue spreading the rumors, head to Pe'Shi's, or, as always, the ever present third option of whatever suits your fancy.
The tortle unfazed by the sight of the dwarf merely asked, "are you Pe' Shi? I'm here to see Pe' Shi, a mutual friend suggested I ask him about the bearded dragon."
Olwer stifles a yawn as he thanks the boatmen for information about fares.
He then looks for someone selling pearls. And feathers, too, if such wares can be had for sale in this Elf town.
investigation
15
If he finds the goods, he will buy what he needs.
Materials or no materials, he next heads for the church that offered free beds for weary travellers. He needs rest after last night's wakefulness and strange experiences.
As his eyes close, he clutches something hidden under his cloak close to his breast and whispers,
The Dwarf responds, "Aye, its a bit early for that but give Andy me best when ya see him next. Yer free ta sit, drink, and laugh as long as yer able."
He opens the door fully and you can all see a treasure trove of adventurers loot and trophies. Whoever owns this bar clearly has a passion for collecting tales of far away lands. The dwarf bristles proudly as you gawk in aw at some of the things on the wall. Dragon's teeth, giant's weapons, and Sea Monster Scales all adorn the wood paneling. He is most proud of a large spear that hangs over where he stands himself at the bar to serve. He pours a mug of ale, and enjoys it.
The tortle nods and peered down at the Dwarf as he responded and invited Genesh and his companions inside. "Thank you for your hospitality... you are most kind,"the tortle replied politely as he walked inside the establishment struck with the sight before him. Genesh paused for a moment or two and admired the Dwarf's most impressive collection then moved deeper into the bar. "Actually if... um, Andy is not kept too long by the Warden I fully expect him to join us here so with luck you will be able to give him your best directly. If not trust that I will be sure to let him know."
As the Dwarf drank from his mug of ale at the bar Genesh moved closer to stand beside him, "is the establishment serve yourself or is there a serving wench hidden somewhere about,"the tortle respectfully inquired as he glanced about to see if there was anyone else in the place? The tortle's eyes continued to admire the contents of the room, "I am most impressed with your collection. One does not often come across such an eclectic assortment of treasures, trinkets, and knick-knacks! You no doubt must have some interesting tales to tell that relate to each and every item."
The tortle nodded, "yes the Warden wished a word or two. No telling how long it will take as one never knows so I could not say for sure when he might show up."
Genesh shook his head at the Dwarf's next question and gestured to his associates, "my companions are most capable fellows. I, on the other hand, not so much."
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(7:30 AM)
At the Tavern:
(Olwer & Elisha)
The waiter takes Elisha's order, making a grand suggestion for the wine pairing and moving on. He returns later, absent the earlier fanfare, yet still presented with all of the grace of a meal well respected. The wine is poured and the tab left.
For such a generous offering of vegetables and wine, not more than 5 sp. After eating you feel full enough that you'd not consider eating soon, and later even seems unlikely. The wine is pleasant yet not overly alcoholic.
You leave the establishment, having feasted well. Wandering about the locals searching for a bed, you can see that there are mostly druids or their kinfolk who live in this camp. They all speak about nature in reverence except for the one or two off and odd ends. In specific, you notice that the Elven church, whom conveniently placed a "WELCOME TRAVELERS" sign that advertised free lodgings, is in fact run by a very strictly NOT druid. When you walk in looking for such a deal, a very clean and well kept marble altar stood proud.
Equally gestured and elegant, a long haired priest in white robes spoke small whispers to his gods. He turned to you and rose his hands in front of the symbol hanging on the wall behind him, giving the illusion that he was lifting it into the sky. A pertinent gesture, identifying this Tree-Chapel as a Church of the Settled Soul.
Of course, the extremely thin coffin shape with three horizontal lines chiseled on each side giving it the appearance of wings on the wall, would have done that as well.
Father Olthir: "Ah, Traverlers! If you've come for the free beds, I ask only that you not sleep in the ones marked for our brother's and sister's lost in High Thane."
He returns to his gesturing and praying, unaware of your intent to stay among the restless dead or not.
(8AM)
Riding up to the Town...
(Genesh & Irenia)
There is a relaxing slow to the Elk's mighty gate and the sudden stop of the numbing wind. Heat returns to your face as does color. When your vision readjusts to the normal world, you can see the well protected river town. Riding up to its gates, the group is not stopped and proceeds directly to the stables. Once dismounted, the leader explains that the town is not physically large enough to house most of the population, so the vast majority of them live in hollowed out tree burrows. He says that he and the other three will be at Pe' Shi's Bar, located farthest from the River. Its noticeably in a tree that is also not connected to the wicker roof, just like the hall. However, unlike the hall, they explain that this place is not connected because druid's do not often visit, not because the tree was cursed and then petrified.
The Leader chuckled calmly as he waved, "Its the only spot in town where you can drink without hearing a speech!!"
When the group walks away from you, you notice a rather knightly individual watching them go towards the bar. This is odd as they carry a metal longsword, something no one in the village, not even the guards, do. They start to approach, rather aggressively.
(8:15AM)
In the Middle of Town...
(Olwer, Elisha, Irenia, & Genesh)
You all hear the Warden try to stop the group.
Warden: "You four, where is the fifth among you?"
Olwer orders fish (pike , for good luck) and wine.
(8:15AM)
Center of Town...
The leader explains that the Fifth member has some business farther North, and that they were previously hunting on a sanctioned mission. The warden is dismissive of the entire story and explains that they will all need to give an official statement as they are currently suspects.
Leader: "Suspected of what?"
Warden: "You are suspected of wandering the Northern Wood and harassing the humans unnecessarily. If guilty, you will be charged for the Arson that we are currently holding a human for."
Leader: "Ridiculous! Who makes such a claim?"
Warden: "We know you were the only ones in the area at the time, and that two among you are skilled in Alchemical knowledge. You could easily procure and produce an accelerant, the likes of which are involved directly with this case. Your side of the story would clear things up."
Leader: "We are accused by a single individual and must therefore surrender to what? Interogation? Persecution? I think not. I think when you have evidence that you might arrest us, come to Pe'Shi's. Elsewise, we are through speaking."
The leader tries to walk away, and the Warden reaches out to grab him by the wrist.
10
6
The Leader is grabbed the wrist and stopped. He holds a hand out to his followers and turns around calmly.
Leader: "Release me."
There is a tense moment that lingers far too long. The warden doesn't back down.
Olwer hides his surprise as best he may. At first he thinks the Warden refers to Artemisia Euclid. He asks the others about her.
But then he sees the Warden's confrontation with the stranger who had brought the others to the riverport.
What's going on? He doesn't have enough information. That's dangerous.
He attempts to sneak away when the Warden grabs the ranger Leader.
stealth
19
Genesh watches as the tense moment lingers on far too long, the warden doesn't seem like he is going to back down. The tortle slowly moved closer to be within thirty feet of them if he is not already and casts Create or Destroy Water with the water created falling as rain in a 30-foot cube directly over the group in order to get their attention. Genesh stepped forward and looked at the Warden and bellowed, "release him! Neither he nor his companions have committed any crime. I am called Genesh, one of those sent to investigate the fire and I can vouch for these good men!"
(With a 19, Olwer slips away without anyone noticing. The Highest Passive Perception was 15.)
As Genesh casts the rain cloud, the water begins to pour upon the ground. Thirstily it drank, as if the dirt itself were parched, the falling liquid quenching its great need. Small green sprouts begin to grow rapidly upon the ground. As it did, Father Olthir entered his doorway, now witnessing the scene. He glared daggers at Genesh and his mystic display, displaying a ghoulish scowl upon his face. Several druids took notice of this and quickly cast drying and decaying spells, returning the earth to its dormant state. The spell does achieve the desired effect, however, and Genesh does indeed have the attention of everyone. They all stare at him, including the leader, in a puzzled look. The warden takes the initiative,
Warden: "I would very much appreciate your testimony."
The others remain silent for a moment. Father Olthir, satisficed with the other Druids swift actions, revokes his intended rebuke and returns to his Church. The other druids continue about their day and the town resumes as the warden lets the leader loose. Surprisingly, he sticks around now, possibly wanting to see what Genesh has to say.
The tortle seeing the Warden release the leader, his gaze locks on the Warden and politely responds, "I am most happy to answer any questions that you may have and provide testimony at the time and the place of your choosing. If now is not the time then you will find me and my companion(s) with our friend there at Pe' Shi's Bar." If the Warden has no questions or sets a time and place the tortle will motion to the leader to lead the way to Pe' Shi's...
The Warden would like to separate you from the Group to ask your opinion, she doesn't trust their presence not to influence you. The leader doesn't seem to mind too much, but the others seem weary. To reassure them, the leader states,
Leader: "I believe he would speak well of us, but, I fear this has gotten out of hand. We will go for questioning."
The others, greatly annoyed, let out a collective groan. They begrudgingly follow him and the Warden away. The leader looks back and shouts to Genesh,
Leader: "Hey! If you get a chance, still go see Pe' Shi! He's a really cool guy! Ask him about "the bearded dragon!"
He makes a jokingly terrifying face with his teeth bared, hands raised like cat claws, and a huge smile.
Genesh silently watches as the leader and his companions are lead away by the Warden. The tortle does not acknowledge or respond to the leader's last words but rather without speaking heads off in the direction of Pe' Shi's Bar, as he was earlier informed was located farthest from the river. The others may follow or not, the choice is entirely up to them.
OLWER makes for the docks, where he looks into the cost of passage for a single person and for a party of four.
While there, he passes on to boatmen and travelers the sordid tale of John the Adulterous Arsonist. He adds an invented, yet plausible detail- the tavern/inn fire accidentally set in the brawl burned hot and fast because it set off a cask of distilled spirits and some jars of lantern oil that a servant left in unsafe proximity to a tub of greasy kitchen rags.
if applicable:
deception
16
Elisha looks around and sees that Owler vanished. Not knowing where he went he will go with Genesh and the others. He has a few questions for him.
Do the Druids look familiar? ......... are they the same ones that had John stuffed in a sack?
investigation: 17
perception: 12
Irenia follows Genesh as well.
I have an intelligence of six, I know what I'm doing.
The three of you follow Genesh to the bar, and Elisha notices something curious.
Two of the four people that just walked off, were exactly the two that had kidnapped Chris.
They appear to be cohorts with Genesh & Irenia's new allies.
(8:30 AM)
(Genesh, Irenia, &, Elisha)
Walking about town, you are having some difficulty finding this mythical bar at the back. There's just as many trees and doors as there were by the Tavern and Hall, however, they are less welcoming here. The doors are much heavier, and often closed instead of being left invitingly open.
When you do come across what clearly must be the bar, as there are broken glasses all about the front with a feint but ever pleasant smell of spilled booze.
The door appears solid, unable to be opened from the outside. You knock, and an extremely stocky looking dwarf answers the door. His shoulder muscles so large and clearly well used, it was hard to say if he even had a neck.
Dwarf: "How can I help ya?"
(Olwer)
(At the Docks)
There is a general belief in what you are saying. The four or five people here seem to be getting genuinely convinced by the 2 or 3 that you've totally deceived already. The rumors is spreading like wildfire, and within a day or two your contract should be fulfilled as long as nothing arises to combat the misinformation.
You look around and think about things. You have the option to continue spreading the rumors, head to Pe'Shi's, or, as always, the ever present third option of whatever suits your fancy.
The tortle unfazed by the sight of the dwarf merely asked, "are you Pe' Shi? I'm here to see Pe' Shi, a mutual friend suggested I ask him about the bearded dragon."
AT THE DOCKS, OLWER
Olwer stifles a yawn as he thanks the boatmen for information about fares.
He then looks for someone selling pearls. And feathers, too, if such wares can be had for sale in this Elf town.
investigation
15
If he finds the goods, he will buy what he needs.
Materials or no materials, he next heads for the church that offered free beds for weary travellers. He needs rest after last night's wakefulness and strange experiences.
As his eyes close, he clutches something hidden under his cloak close to his breast and whispers,
"Arbella, don't be afraid..."
(At the Bar)
The Dwarf responds, "Aye, its a bit early for that but give Andy me best when ya see him next. Yer free ta sit, drink, and laugh as long as yer able."
He opens the door fully and you can all see a treasure trove of adventurers loot and trophies. Whoever owns this bar clearly has a passion for collecting tales of far away lands. The dwarf bristles proudly as you gawk in aw at some of the things on the wall. Dragon's teeth, giant's weapons, and Sea Monster Scales all adorn the wood paneling. He is most proud of a large spear that hangs over where he stands himself at the bar to serve. He pours a mug of ale, and enjoys it.
The tortle nods and peered down at the Dwarf as he responded and invited Genesh and his companions inside. "Thank you for your hospitality... you are most kind," the tortle replied politely as he walked inside the establishment struck with the sight before him. Genesh paused for a moment or two and admired the Dwarf's most impressive collection then moved deeper into the bar. "Actually if... um, Andy is not kept too long by the Warden I fully expect him to join us here so with luck you will be able to give him your best directly. If not trust that I will be sure to let him know."
As the Dwarf drank from his mug of ale at the bar Genesh moved closer to stand beside him, "is the establishment serve yourself or is there a serving wench hidden somewhere about," the tortle respectfully inquired as he glanced about to see if there was anyone else in the place? The tortle's eyes continued to admire the contents of the room, "I am most impressed with your collection. One does not often come across such an eclectic assortment of treasures, trinkets, and knick-knacks! You no doubt must have some interesting tales to tell that relate to each and every item."
The Dwarf heartily replies in agreement,
"It is! It is! I am the sole tender o' this bar, and its keeping. There's only two drinks, the one in the glass, and the one in the gut!"
He laughs loud and long,
"Ah, good times. But no, we don't do self serve or have a wench. It's only me, and there's only three: Beer, Water, and Whiskey. What'll it be?"
He slams the mug, taps the floor with his shoe, and clicks his teeth.
"Ya don't get far in the Merchant Marine without a few trophies ta show off. It was me profession for many years, and the salt still shows."
He looks down the long, empty, bar, looking at you low, in a hushed and more serious tone while sliding the mug over with your choice.
"So you say the Warden is the reason he's not here then?"
He pulls at his beard, lining his mustache with his index finger and thumb.
"So I take it you're all capable fellows then?"
He raises an inquiring eyebrow.
The tortle nodded, "yes the Warden wished a word or two. No telling how long it will take as one never knows so I could not say for sure when he might show up."
Genesh shook his head at the Dwarf's next question and gestured to his associates, "my companions are most capable fellows. I, on the other hand, not so much."