Flint gives a functional bow "aye, tis true we're workin' against th' giants, an' had us some scrapes wit'em as we travel. But now we're distracted as one o' our number has learnt 'is whole family is taken from their homes. Go on Rip, tell'em what we know o' where they at, maybe they can speed our search." Flint will help and will provide guidance at key moments while Rip speaks.
A minute, soft murmur between the dwarf and the Tethyrian elder is heard. The elders eyes flick briefly between Marav and Crownsguard, and a few of them seem slightly more on-guard, but they remain quiet in anticipation.
Ink nods politely and as they stare at Marav and Crownsguard, he takes note of any insignia or other symbols upon their person or in the designs of their clothes.
Would Ink recognize that the Shou woman (of Kara-Tur?) and the Illuskan woman (of the areas around Luskan, formerly in ancient time Illusk) seem far from home? Being from Silverymoon, would he have had interactions with either people and in what general context?
Ink recognizes the crest worn by the middle-aged Tethyrian human as identical to the one won by Tamalin Zoar of Calling Horns.
General Knowledge for the Sword Coast & the North c. 1490 DR:
It would be fairly common knowledge that, while humanity can be distinguished along ethnic lines (and is commonly done so as to quickly describe someone's physical traits), the North is a bit of a melting pot in terms of history, culture, language, and religion. However, ethnicity still plays a minor role in a person's upbringing, and in general one can be expected to bring the cultural expectations of their ancestry to bear in their personal outlook and way of life. Illuskans, in particular, are dominant in the North, with Tethyrians, Damarans, and Chondothans also comprising a majority of the human race in this part of Faerûn. Other ethnic groups, such as the Shou, are certainly in the minority in these parts.
As for the elders, they are all dressed in what would be considered "normal" for the North, and for the merchant city of Everlund in particular: tailored garb, muted colors, and modest cuts. The dwarf is the most ostentatiously dressed, with plenty of gemstones, silver, and gold adorning his fine raiment.
(You can make an Intelligence check to discern any additional ethnic clues, if you like!)
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
"Ahem, sorry about that I was collecting my thoughts. I'll save you the extra details being that individuals in your positions have a great many things to attend to." Rip then explains pogglestick and how he learned of its attack from his wife, finding his father and the twins as well as the conversation with the stone giants. fighting the werewolves and what they found there, ending with the information received from the scrying provided by Rhuidhen. "we come before you now seeking any aide you might be able to provide in these trying and troubled times"
While Rip speaks, and Flint prepares to cast his guidance spell, Flint finds his efforts ineffective. The Tethyrian and dwarf chuckle as they see this happen. The closest elder, the Shou woman in merchant’s garb, says to Flint, “I can appreciate you desiring to bless your friends, but magic does not work here in this room. It has been that way for generations.” You will find that spells and magic items do not function in this area.
The fire in the hearth of the Hall of the Elders crackers warmly, accompanying Rip’s recalling of events with the occasional pop, in just the right dramatic moments. After Rip finishes his speech, the elven mage Rhuidhen offers a kind correction. “I did not scry for you, my friend,” he says to Rip. “You’ve had a rough go; I know enough from hearing of your travails from Flint. It was likely my...colleague...in Moongleam Tower who performed the spell for you,” he generously assumes after Rip’s impassioned performance.
The two female elders lean towards each other, obviously moved, as they whisper a very brief exchange. The Illuskan woman in the most modest garb speaks up first. “Elder Vatrice Stormwright, at your service. I find you very convincing, sir, and were I an adventurer myself, I would readily aid you. I say we do what we can as a body to render help to this halfling and What do my colleagues say?”
The well-dressed dwarf is busy wiping his eyes and does not immediately respond, while the Shou woman nods slightly in introduction. “Elder Shen,” she says in a northern accent, with just a hint of something from the east. “Your tale is moving, to be sure. I am unclear on what we can immediately offer—we do not wish to make a rash decision.” Shen greets any willing characters with an exceptionally firm handshake.
Rhuidhen, the sun elf elder, nods at his two counterparts. “It is certainly a worthy endeavor from my point of view. We are right to question how we can act, and to measure our resources before acting. We wish to be reasonable, but I see no cause to withhold benevolence from these adventurers.” His voice is one of both reason and moderation.
At this, the dwarf snuffles and responds gruffly, “Having killed my fair share of giants and barbarians, and keenly acquainted with the loss of relatives, I feel your pain. Oh...and the name is Boldor, clan Steelshield. At your service.”
The Tethyrian human, the one in captain’s uniform, straightens and says, “Horix Zoar. It is quite a tale—but how much truth is there to it? Every have adventurers coming through here, exaggerating and fabricating their deeds in order to line their own pockets and increase their fame, at the expense of the common folk.” He gestures widely as he speaks, then looks pointedly from each of you to the others. “What sign have you that you are telling the truth?”
To those that offered a personal greeting, Ink responds in kind, a warmer response compared to his usual as of late.
When he gets to Zoar he extends a hand getting close, and in a lowered voice so as to not be so easily heard by any of the others, says, "How very different you are from Tamalin. She took us in, in our time of need, and, although she did her diligence, accepted our stories as truthful - especially when her second found the bodies of the fire giant and troll that had beleaguered the Calling Horns. She said we'd find a powerful friend here, I assumed that was you when I saw the crest. Am I wrong?"
"oh, well my mistake then Rhuidhen, all you tall folk tend to blend together after a time. Turns out knees aren't as unique as faces."
"If i wanted to spread false tales I would have killed at least one of the stone giants, that would make for a greater story after all. I could sell my books about our other adventures to line my pockets, I'm not expecting you to give me command of an army or a large sum of gold. Maybe a few scouts or hunters perhaps, to help look for these barbarians location. If my comrades and I know where to look we can retrieve the captives ourselves. I appreciate your caution Horix Zoar, it is a sign of a good leader."
Caught, Flint offers the Shou woman a nod, "ah meant'na disrespect."
Flint turns out his holy symbol. "As fer th' truth o' our words, ah don't normally keep company wit' those who'd call me word inta question. What proof can we offer? We got some letters o' recommendation on us, an' some spoils that would erase doubt if they was known. But, all we ask is a nudge ta th' right path. Can ye help us?"
Crownsguard looks toward the others, “We still have the weapons of Orcus from the stronghold in Noanar’s Hold, do we not? That seems like that would be a strong point toward our case.”
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
DM - Elustran Days ~ Fate/False Revelation
Rex'aliha - Hoard of the Dragon Queen ~ Mozu of Worms- The Stormpoint Mountains ~ Muireach Maon- Shepherd’s Crossing ~ Crownsguard - Storm King’s Thunder ~ Gunnar Wayland -Boats, Rocks, and Ruffians ~ POUF!- Ex-Ravens ~ Pascal LaRoux - Long Road Dragon Heist
When he gets to Zoar he extends a hand getting close, and in a lowered voice so as to not be so easily heard by any of the others, says, "How very different you are from Tamalin. She took us in, in our time of need, and, although she did her diligence, accepted our stories as truthful - especially when her second found the bodies of the fire giant and troll that had beleaguered the Calling Horns. She said we'd find a powerful friend here, I assumed that was you when I saw the crest. Am I wrong?"
“Ah—you know my sister,” Horix Zoar says. “Charity isn’t her strong suit, but she certainly does enjoy providing...protection. Again, you’ll forgive me if I don’t simply take your word for it. Our family connection is no secret among these parts. Did she happen to provide anything in writing for this ‘powerful friend’ of whom she spoke?”
(edit—just saw Flint’s post)
Zoar perks up his ears as Flint mentions the letter of recommendation. “You received a letter from my sister?”
"We did," Ink replies as he opens the bag of holding, beginning to pull it out, "but, I was hoping that it wouldn't be necessary as it could be of use in another city where none of us, personally, have any leverage whatsoever - and leverage and favors are hard to come by these days."
Ink produces the letter, unfolding it as he slips it out, but doesn't quite let it go.
Flint gives a functional bow "aye, tis true we're workin' against th' giants, an' had us some scrapes wit'em as we travel. But now we're distracted as one o' our number has learnt 'is whole family is taken from their homes. Go on Rip, tell'em what we know o' where they at, maybe they can speed our search." Flint will help and will provide guidance at key moments while Rip speaks.
// While this is happening, what are the rest of you doing? //
DM - Storm King's Thunder PbP | Yet Another Storm King's Thunder PbP
Current: Eogard Duramastar, Human Twilight Cleric/Star Druid | Eiren Lathrana, Shadar-Kai Eldritch Knight/Bladesinger | Arugula, Rabbitfolk Armorer
Survivor: CrispyDM's Saltmarsh as Syltra | SarcasticFury's Strahd as Hadrian Frozenspark | Forge of Fury as The DM
Crownsguard will also bow, “Greetings, I am Crownsguard. As a member of the Order of the Gauntlet, I am privileged to supply my aid.”
Crownsguard will allow Rip to speak.
DM - Elustran Days ~ Fate/False Revelation
Rex'aliha - Hoard of the Dragon Queen ~ Mozu of Worms - The Stormpoint Mountains ~ Muireach Maon - Shepherd’s Crossing ~ Crownsguard - Storm King’s Thunder ~ Gunnar Wayland - Boats, Rocks, and Ruffians ~ POUF! - Ex-Ravens ~ Pascal LaRoux - Long Road Dragon Heist
Marav walks up next to Crownsguard, carefully lowers his hood. Meeting everyone's gaze one at a time.
"I am Marav of the Emerald Enclave, and I'm here to help."
Marav(Druid/Ranger) -Storm Kings ThunderDontontion(Rogue/Warlock) - Storm Kings Thunder
DM - Stormpoint Mountains :: A Critical Role Adventure ( Map of Trunau )
A minute, soft murmur between the dwarf and the Tethyrian elder is heard. The elders eyes flick briefly between Marav and Crownsguard, and a few of them seem slightly more on-guard, but they remain quiet in anticipation.
DM - Storm King's Thunder PbP | Yet Another Storm King's Thunder PbP
Current: Eogard Duramastar, Human Twilight Cleric/Star Druid | Eiren Lathrana, Shadar-Kai Eldritch Knight/Bladesinger | Arugula, Rabbitfolk Armorer
Survivor: CrispyDM's Saltmarsh as Syltra | SarcasticFury's Strahd as Hadrian Frozenspark | Forge of Fury as The DM
Ink nods politely and as they stare at Marav and Crownsguard, he takes note of any insignia or other symbols upon their person or in the designs of their clothes.
// Perception 22 //
---
Would Ink recognize that the Shou woman (of Kara-Tur?) and the Illuskan woman (of the areas around Luskan, formerly in ancient time Illusk) seem far from home? Being from Silverymoon, would he have had interactions with either people and in what general context?
Storm King's Thunder - Ink, Elven Bladesinging Wizard
Core City: APbPA - Ormond, Human Twilight Cleric
The Inferno - BG:Dia - DM
They keep me rollin'
Ink recognizes the crest worn by the middle-aged Tethyrian human as identical to the one won by Tamalin Zoar of Calling Horns.
It would be fairly common knowledge that, while humanity can be distinguished along ethnic lines (and is commonly done so as to quickly describe someone's physical traits), the North is a bit of a melting pot in terms of history, culture, language, and religion. However, ethnicity still plays a minor role in a person's upbringing, and in general one can be expected to bring the cultural expectations of their ancestry to bear in their personal outlook and way of life. Illuskans, in particular, are dominant in the North, with Tethyrians, Damarans, and Chondothans also comprising a majority of the human race in this part of Faerûn. Other ethnic groups, such as the Shou, are certainly in the minority in these parts.
DM - Storm King's Thunder PbP | Yet Another Storm King's Thunder PbP
Current: Eogard Duramastar, Human Twilight Cleric/Star Druid | Eiren Lathrana, Shadar-Kai Eldritch Knight/Bladesinger | Arugula, Rabbitfolk Armorer
Survivor: CrispyDM's Saltmarsh as Syltra | SarcasticFury's Strahd as Hadrian Frozenspark | Forge of Fury as The DM
// General inteligence check 10 //
Storm King's Thunder - Ink, Elven Bladesinging Wizard
Core City: APbPA - Ormond, Human Twilight Cleric
The Inferno - BG:Dia - DM
They keep me rollin'
Ink can tell that some conversation will need to be had to better deduce things about these people.
DM - Storm King's Thunder PbP | Yet Another Storm King's Thunder PbP
Current: Eogard Duramastar, Human Twilight Cleric/Star Druid | Eiren Lathrana, Shadar-Kai Eldritch Knight/Bladesinger | Arugula, Rabbitfolk Armorer
Survivor: CrispyDM's Saltmarsh as Syltra | SarcasticFury's Strahd as Hadrian Frozenspark | Forge of Fury as The DM
Ink gently nudges Rip upon realizing a full twenty seconds of stunned silence have passed since Crownsguard's and Marav's introductions.
Storm King's Thunder - Ink, Elven Bladesinging Wizard
Core City: APbPA - Ormond, Human Twilight Cleric
The Inferno - BG:Dia - DM
They keep me rollin'
"Ahem, sorry about that I was collecting my thoughts. I'll save you the extra details being that individuals in your positions have a great many things to attend to." Rip then explains pogglestick and how he learned of its attack from his wife, finding his father and the twins as well as the conversation with the stone giants. fighting the werewolves and what they found there, ending with the information received from the scrying provided by Rhuidhen. "we come before you now seeking any aide you might be able to provide in these trying and troubled times"
persuasion if needed 26
Rip Dangerfield- Halfling Bard, Storm Kings Thunder (retired)
Matrix- Human Monk/fighter, Storm Kings Thunder
Ink was completely enraptured by Rip's presentation.
Storm King's Thunder - Ink, Elven Bladesinging Wizard
Core City: APbPA - Ormond, Human Twilight Cleric
The Inferno - BG:Dia - DM
They keep me rollin'
Crownsguard leans over to Ink, “I was there for most of it, but he says it in a way that makes me think I wasn’t. He is very good at this.”
DM - Elustran Days ~ Fate/False Revelation
Rex'aliha - Hoard of the Dragon Queen ~ Mozu of Worms - The Stormpoint Mountains ~ Muireach Maon - Shepherd’s Crossing ~ Crownsguard - Storm King’s Thunder ~ Gunnar Wayland - Boats, Rocks, and Ruffians ~ POUF! - Ex-Ravens ~ Pascal LaRoux - Long Road Dragon Heist
While Rip speaks, and Flint prepares to cast his guidance spell, Flint finds his efforts ineffective. The Tethyrian and dwarf chuckle as they see this happen. The closest elder, the Shou woman in merchant’s garb, says to Flint, “I can appreciate you desiring to bless your friends, but magic does not work here in this room. It has been that way for generations.” You will find that spells and magic items do not function in this area.
The fire in the hearth of the Hall of the Elders crackers warmly, accompanying Rip’s recalling of events with the occasional pop, in just the right dramatic moments. After Rip finishes his speech, the elven mage Rhuidhen offers a kind correction. “I did not scry for you, my friend,” he says to Rip. “You’ve had a rough go; I know enough from hearing of your travails from Flint. It was likely my...colleague...in Moongleam Tower who performed the spell for you,” he generously assumes after Rip’s impassioned performance.
The two female elders lean towards each other, obviously moved, as they whisper a very brief exchange. The Illuskan woman in the most modest garb speaks up first. “Elder Vatrice Stormwright, at your service. I find you very convincing, sir, and were I an adventurer myself, I would readily aid you. I say we do what we can as a body to render help to this halfling and What do my colleagues say?”
The well-dressed dwarf is busy wiping his eyes and does not immediately respond, while the Shou woman nods slightly in introduction. “Elder Shen,” she says in a northern accent, with just a hint of something from the east. “Your tale is moving, to be sure. I am unclear on what we can immediately offer—we do not wish to make a rash decision.” Shen greets any willing characters with an exceptionally firm handshake.
Rhuidhen, the sun elf elder, nods at his two counterparts. “It is certainly a worthy endeavor from my point of view. We are right to question how we can act, and to measure our resources before acting. We wish to be reasonable, but I see no cause to withhold benevolence from these adventurers.” His voice is one of both reason and moderation.
At this, the dwarf snuffles and responds gruffly, “Having killed my fair share of giants and barbarians, and keenly acquainted with the loss of relatives, I feel your pain. Oh...and the name is Boldor, clan Steelshield. At your service.”
The Tethyrian human, the one in captain’s uniform, straightens and says, “Horix Zoar. It is quite a tale—but how much truth is there to it? Every have adventurers coming through here, exaggerating and fabricating their deeds in order to line their own pockets and increase their fame, at the expense of the common folk.” He gestures widely as he speaks, then looks pointedly from each of you to the others. “What sign have you that you are telling the truth?”
DM - Storm King's Thunder PbP | Yet Another Storm King's Thunder PbP
Current: Eogard Duramastar, Human Twilight Cleric/Star Druid | Eiren Lathrana, Shadar-Kai Eldritch Knight/Bladesinger | Arugula, Rabbitfolk Armorer
Survivor: CrispyDM's Saltmarsh as Syltra | SarcasticFury's Strahd as Hadrian Frozenspark | Forge of Fury as The DM
To those that offered a personal greeting, Ink responds in kind, a warmer response compared to his usual as of late.
When he gets to Zoar he extends a hand getting close, and in a lowered voice so as to not be so easily heard by any of the others, says, "How very different you are from Tamalin. She took us in, in our time of need, and, although she did her diligence, accepted our stories as truthful - especially when her second found the bodies of the fire giant and troll that had beleaguered the Calling Horns. She said we'd find a powerful friend here, I assumed that was you when I saw the crest. Am I wrong?"
Storm King's Thunder - Ink, Elven Bladesinging Wizard
Core City: APbPA - Ormond, Human Twilight Cleric
The Inferno - BG:Dia - DM
They keep me rollin'
"oh, well my mistake then Rhuidhen, all you tall folk tend to blend together after a time. Turns out knees aren't as unique as faces."
"If i wanted to spread false tales I would have killed at least one of the stone giants, that would make for a greater story after all. I could sell my books about our other adventures to line my pockets, I'm not expecting you to give me command of an army or a large sum of gold. Maybe a few scouts or hunters perhaps, to help look for these barbarians location. If my comrades and I know where to look we can retrieve the captives ourselves. I appreciate your caution Horix Zoar, it is a sign of a good leader."
Rip Dangerfield- Halfling Bard, Storm Kings Thunder (retired)
Matrix- Human Monk/fighter, Storm Kings Thunder
Caught, Flint offers the Shou woman a nod, "ah meant'na disrespect."
Flint turns out his holy symbol. "As fer th' truth o' our words, ah don't normally keep company wit' those who'd call me word inta question. What proof can we offer? We got some letters o' recommendation on us, an' some spoils that would erase doubt if they was known. But, all we ask is a nudge ta th' right path. Can ye help us?"
Crownsguard looks toward the others, “We still have the weapons of Orcus from the stronghold in Noanar’s Hold, do we not? That seems like that would be a strong point toward our case.”
DM - Elustran Days ~ Fate/False Revelation
Rex'aliha - Hoard of the Dragon Queen ~ Mozu of Worms - The Stormpoint Mountains ~ Muireach Maon - Shepherd’s Crossing ~ Crownsguard - Storm King’s Thunder ~ Gunnar Wayland - Boats, Rocks, and Ruffians ~ POUF! - Ex-Ravens ~ Pascal LaRoux - Long Road Dragon Heist
“Ah—you know my sister,” Horix Zoar says. “Charity isn’t her strong suit, but she certainly does enjoy providing...protection. Again, you’ll forgive me if I don’t simply take your word for it. Our family connection is no secret among these parts. Did she happen to provide anything in writing for this ‘powerful friend’ of whom she spoke?”
(edit—just saw Flint’s post)
Zoar perks up his ears as Flint mentions the letter of recommendation. “You received a letter from my sister?”
DM - Storm King's Thunder PbP | Yet Another Storm King's Thunder PbP
Current: Eogard Duramastar, Human Twilight Cleric/Star Druid | Eiren Lathrana, Shadar-Kai Eldritch Knight/Bladesinger | Arugula, Rabbitfolk Armorer
Survivor: CrispyDM's Saltmarsh as Syltra | SarcasticFury's Strahd as Hadrian Frozenspark | Forge of Fury as The DM
"We did," Ink replies as he opens the bag of holding, beginning to pull it out, "but, I was hoping that it wouldn't be necessary as it could be of use in another city where none of us, personally, have any leverage whatsoever - and leverage and favors are hard to come by these days."
Ink produces the letter, unfolding it as he slips it out, but doesn't quite let it go.
Storm King's Thunder - Ink, Elven Bladesinging Wizard
Core City: APbPA - Ormond, Human Twilight Cleric
The Inferno - BG:Dia - DM
They keep me rollin'