I will prepare the next post properly later this morning, but Ben, I'm going to need a second persuasion check for Kiorna to accept the offer to your private residence. That is pretty forward. If you fail this check, the 25 still stands for dinner, but you'll have to figure something else out, it will have to be in a public place.
I will post results of all of it in the next post along with the timing of the date, Ash's business results, etc. etc.
((If she isn't keen on eating there Ben wouldn't have pushed that, he just thought it would be a nicer experience than a tavern! In that case he'd ask her preference on the Goat or the Line.
"Sure, just let me know what sort of fare you have in mind... though inviting a woman to the place your house sitting, to be served a meal cooked by one of your friends... might set an odd vibe for a first date? Understand if you're not looking to parade your woman of the week in front of Hanna, but might be better to wait until a third date before you bring her back to the mansion? Give us time to get the place cleaned up, too. And if things go well, I can always go for a walk after serving dessert..."
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
DM:Forged in Chaos, Spiders of the Abyss, The Sundered Way, Champions of the Citadel
((Ben wouldn't have probably brought it up with Kay had she already been uncomfortable, but we'll roll!))
"Excellent points. She also seemed more like she wanted a more public venue for the first date. I'm glad to hear you're interested. We'll see how things go. Also, please don't call her my woman of week, that is rather disrespectful."
He thinks a while as he looks between the ships and says absently,
"I'm not so much concerned with Hanna seeing me with her, it is a very small town. I have no illusions she won't hear of the date, but I am a bit confused at her sudden change in demeanor. Normally it comes after..."
He waves away the thought,
"Well, something usually happens to precipitate the change."
Ben shifts his attention to the vessel's captain and wanders over to her waving Kay along,
"Do you often make runs to Neverwinter? How much would it cost to take passengers? How fast could you make the trip without a load?"
"You think she was upset about us - me - being gone?"
He looks down at Korrik,
"No need to speculate, really. Though, speaking of being on a boat for two weeks, when was the last time you were on a date? Or were intimate with anything beyond that giant toad you spent time in?"
He looks back up and tries to hide a smirk,
"I can inquire with Kiorna if she has a friend? Or perhaps she has a taxidermied toad?"
"I mean, she was out of town and I think you said seemed a bit off before we left without much word of when we'd return... she might just be pissed at you. Oh, don't worry about me, while you were making nice with the orc, I had a tryst with a mermaid. She wanted me to run away and join her undersea kingdom, she was a princess there, but I was worried you lot couldn't find your way back to the ship without me."
"Sure, ask if she's got a stuffed toad for your halfling friend to shove down his pants, I'm sure that'll go over well.", Korrik smirks.
"Though I suppose if the date's not going well and you need an out..."
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
DM:Forged in Chaos, Spiders of the Abyss, The Sundered Way, Champions of the Citadel
Ash, Xendros cracks a slight grin and says "Fine. If the items are late, my suppliers shall be paying the discount. Ha ha ha!" and she laughs.
She smiles fully now. "Just rolling it downhill, dear."
She shakes your hand, accepting the terms. (200gp down, and 800gp to be paid on delivery of items in 5 days from today. Subtracting 100gp for each day late.)
Ash how will you pay her the 200gp down?
Ess responds to Korrik about the money "Oh my bro. You're right. As usual! Damn my homie I'm so glad we met bro. You know, you kind of like keep me on the level, know what I'm sayin' bro? Alright I'll be more cool about the money. Never thought it'd attract thieves but come to think of it the DRG sent me on missions to look out for this exact behavior."
He ponders that for a moment.
"Woah. Full circle or what, bro! So yeah, I'll try to keep the money on the downlow."
"But bro, don't try and talk me out of the grillz. It's gonna happen next time we're in Neverwinter, bro!"
Ben, timing wise, the dinner can happen tonight for sure. It will be a late dinner is all. When you mention your private residence that you have on loan, Kiorna initially gets a bit uncomfortable, but then your explanation smooths the moment over and she responds "HA! My friend, have you ever been to the Goat? Not sure we'd be able to get a word in edgewise given how boisterous it is in there!"
"Let's go to the Line. I know the owner. Real nice woman. They usually have fine performances there too. I haven't been in probably longer than I think. Been so busy with work!"
"I've got to finish a few flats of leather, but I'll clean up after real quick and meet you at the Line, say for 9:00pm? We should be able to grab dinner and catch the last act!"
Ben, the captain says "Of course, mate. Welcome to my life! We run the northern coastline day in and day out, lad. Luskan, Neverwinter, Waterdeep mostly. Been known to take longer trips south, but not with the upcoming season."
"Ships passage? That's all ye'd need? Huh. Well there's no way I'd be sending an empty ship anywhere lad. Although I suppose you could stow aboard on a route. 15 gold." he looks at all of you. "Each."
Ess has a good chuckle at Ben and Korrik's bantering. he says "DUDES. Not sure why you're even worrying about the ladies, they're just gonna take all your money bros!!"and then he says "Er... not you, Ashy!"
Prisoners returned + 16 / 2:00PM / Docks, departing to Lizardfolk cave, arms delivery
After the ship is loaded, the captain does his final preparations and you all depart for the Lizardfolk cave to deliver Queen Othokent's arms order that you brokered.
The trip takes 3 hours, one way.
Regarding the Queen, if you want to RP this by all means let me know and we will. Otherwise, the queen would be very pleased with the order after it is offloaded from the ship and then she would pay you the remaining amount owing for the order. She would also tell you the same information about the upcoming conflict and meeting that Eliander did (it's in the spoiler below) and she hopes very much that she will see all of you at that meeting. She promises to keep this arms deal confidential.
She pays you the remaining balance for the weapons and armor. 27 electrum ingots. She has one of her officers wheel them out on a cart.
So they are paying 2,715 gp (54.3 ingots) 27 up front,27 upon delivery for those weapons and armor, specifically.
Again, happy to RP more with the Queen if you have questions for her!
So you arrive back in town at 8:15pm. The captain was able to catch some nice winds and so Ben has time to get ready for his date. If he's still going?
Also, what will the others do? Ess will just head up to a room at the Line. The arrangement you had has kind of fallen off the radar since you've been gone for two weeks, but there are rooms available at the Line should you want to stay there.
Prisoners returned + 16 / 8:15PM / Marshswamp
Over to you!
AUBRECK:
(So it is approximately 300 miles to Waterdeep although Aubreck and Vertheg are going to catch a lift on a ship travelling out of Marshswamp today (Prisoners returned + 16) Likely on a sailing ship. The travel time for them to get there, exchange the documents, get the money and stones and then come back will be 6 days.)
ELIANDER:
He would explain that final plans are being put into motion and that there will be a final meeting in 7 days from today (Prisoners returned + 16) which will include representation from all allies including Marshswamp council, Lizardfolk leadership and head representatives from the Merfolk and Locathah. At this meeting, the final plans will be determined and then set into motion. The meeting will take place here in Marshswamp at the council hall in 7 days.
XENDROS:
She shakes your hand, accepting the terms. (200gp down, and 800gp to be paid on delivery of items in 5 days from today Prisoners returned + 16. Subtracting 100gp for each day late.)
"I suppose if anyone could sweet talk their way out of a question like that, it's you."
Korrik will head up to the Line for dinner, and see if he can glean anything from Hanna's behavior in general, but towards the party in particular.
Insight: 15
After, he'll head down to the Empty Net and sit at the bar and chat with Kreb a bit, just trying to get a low down on if anything of note has happened while they've been gone. Ess or Ash are welcome to join him.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
DM:Forged in Chaos, Spiders of the Abyss, The Sundered Way, Champions of the Citadel
Ash responds to Ess with a grin, “I WOULD take all your money, to be fair… just without any of that messy relationship business in between! Ha!”. She gives him a wink, and a sly grin, and looks more like a thief somehow than usual.
With Xendros, Ash shakes her hand, and counts out 200gp in good, old, honest-to-goodness gold. “Pleasure doing business with you. If this transaction proceeds smoothly, I may have more dealings with you in the future”. ((200gp removed from personal funds)).
Ash will take far too long bathing at the Inn (and washing and drying and brushing her fur) before eventually catching up with Ess and Korrik at the Empty Net. It might be her first time there. I don’t recall. “My kind of place!”, she says, approaching the boys already well settled in there.
"Ess, bro, I am fairly certain you can have your teeth magically enchanted to glow on command for a similar price to getting them covered in gold or exchanged for gold. I am not exactly sure how a grillz works. If you are going to be flashy, maybe also be useful? Bro."
---
Ben smiles and replies to Kiorna,
"No, I have never been to the Goat. Good to know!"
When she suggests the Line Ben will nod,
"The Line is pleasant, it is where I have been staying since coming to Swampmarsh. I have performed there a few times in fact, though you've likely been too busy to attend. Hanna is very nice indeed, she was very welcoming when we first arrived. I normally encounter a bit of prejudiced and mistrust but she was both friendly and forthright. I will see you there at 9 tonight, Hanna mentioned she had a good act coming in?"
---
Ben bows to Queen Othokent on arriving and says,
"Everything is here, as promised. Unfortunately only slightly ahead of schedule. It has been busy!"
He smiles and continues,
"Speaking of busy, I understand from Eliander that there is a meeting in Marshswamp in 7 days to discuss the plans? I am curious what you can tell us in advance. Should we expect that our attack will come directly after the meeting? The reason I ask is because my companions and I need to take trip to prepare ourselves better for the coming war. A week, in all honesty. We would go now but we worry about not getting back in time for the meeting."
---
He will go and claim himself a table for two and have a waiter get things setup and prepare a nice bottle of wine before trying to find Hanna. He'll open with,
"I hope you're doing well tonight! I see things are as busy always."
Before jumping into the ask,
"Is there any chance I can get a few minutes of time on the stage?"
((He is definitely looking to out perform whoever is currently playing!))
Korrik will let Ben handle the negotiations with the Queen, but he'll give an acknowledging nod to the warrior that accompanied them to take out the croc, if she's around.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
DM:Forged in Chaos, Spiders of the Abyss, The Sundered Way, Champions of the Citadel
((Oh, missed the captain's thing for passage...You know what, it is something that can be negotiated on the way back after we know what kind of timeline we'll have after the meeting.))
((again, apologies all! Work is very busy for me these days, so the game will be slower for right now))
((some of this might not be in chronological order))
Korrik, Ess comes with you and you go for dinner at the Line. (-5sp, same for Ess. The free meals deal has kind of dropped off the radar/has been forgotten about and hasn't been set back up yet.) Korrik, Hanna is different. You aren't sure why, but with that roll you just get a sense that she is acting different. Not mean, not rude. She's being pleasant and everything. She's just different than before.
Korrik, afterwards you head to the Empty Net and have a chat with Kreb. "Korrik, right yeh I remember ya. What's been going on 'round here lately?" he leans in a bit, looking for you to pay him some gold like you did the last time you spoke with him. (I am going to assume that you flip him a coin or two, just let me know how much)
"I kept my ear to the ground like we talked about, my friend." he pats you on the shoulder and takes your coin(s) you give him. "There's whisperings of war. Something about Marshswamp joining forces with the Lizards? I dunno. Not familiar with the details, although I'll tell you one thing my friend, it's been keeping my establishment busy though let me tell ya!"
He leans in even further."With all the talk of war, the attention of the smuggling rings has essentially dropped off the radar. I mean, after the bust and all, how can you blame them. It's just... IF one still did exist, I bet now'd be the time for their prime action, if you know what I mean. No one likes attention you know. You ever speak to G like I said?"
and then he raises his eyebrow, goes and helps someone else at the bar and continues as it starts to get quite busy with a larger group of folks entering the establishment.
Ash, you could also speak with Kreb if you'd like as you came with Korrik"Ash, pleasure. You part of the whole smuggling bust a few weeks ago yes?"
Ash and Korrik, Kreb tells you that there is a special even in the basement of the Empty Net tavern tonight if you're interested.
It's prize fighting.
"Lads put on a helluva show. Heck so do the lasses. Good bit of coin usually up for grabs with the betting. We run it later on, usually 11 or so."
Ess looks at the two of you with eyes wide. (he came with you to the Empty Net) "DUDE! Live fights! Bro, Ashy, I'm down if you guys are. Ben's gonna be busy tonight anyways, hahaha!"
Ash, Xendros takes the gold coins. "Most excellent. Return in 5 days and you shall have your cap and ring and I shall have the remaining balance paid."and she grins at you and escorts you out of the building.
Ben, Ess would've responded "DUDE. Magic isn't going to cut it. I want the real thing. Extraction of the teeth and replacement with gold ones, my bro. the grillllzzzzzzz my man!!" and then he makes the gang sign again.
Ben, Kiorna is surprised but happy when you tell her your experience at the Line and that you know Hanna, etc. etc. "You.. you perform?! Ben! Why didn't you say anything! You will have to perform tonight then!" she kind of bows her head when you mention the prejudice "Yes. This town has never been able to rid itself of it's prejudices. That's one thing I've always loved about Hanna. She's different. Always has been since I've known her anyway. Although she'd be an idiot to turn down a customer regardless, haha!"
Ben, the queen is so happy with everything that maybe she overshares a bit. I mean, why wouldn't she. Given your 20 floor persuasion and the relationship that you've all built with her. "Yessssssss. Marshswamp, the final meetings. Final preperationsssssss. Representaions from all allies to attend. You Heroes of Marshswamp to attend as well!?" she smiles. "Yes. final preparations to happen during meeting. Then plan put to action. Yes. Right away."
"Meeting cannot be delayed! Offensive cannot wait. The time is now."
She explains that they need to move immediately to avoid the sahaugin finding out about their offensive.
She would thank you again for the weapons deal and hopes to see you at the meeting.
Oh, Korrik, the lizardfolk who helped with the croc, Aryte. She is there and she gives you a nod. Wait, did she crack a smile too? Yep, she did.
Ben, you are able to find a table for two and get the wine. The waiter presents you with a 1gp, a 5gp and a 10gp bottle. There are other more expensive ones as well the waiter explains if you're interested. So you get this all set up and then speak with Hanna. "Ben! Yes, busy as always! Ummm... tonight? Well, I do have an act booked. Beautiful elven harpist from Neverwinter...."
OK eventually Kiorna would enter, and you would sit. It would just be the waiter who comes over to help you throughout the night, but Hanna sees you sitting with Kiorna for sure. Kiorna would also eventually go and speak with Hanna, and it seems they just have a normal friendly "hi, hello, how are you" type of deal and then Kiorna comes back and sits.
Ben, I need some rolls.
- Insight for Hanna
- Persuasion to Hanna for opportunity to perform (20 doesn't cut it, the elven harpist is well known)
- Maybe another CHA based check depending on what you might want to say to Kiorna during the date?
((Let me know if I missed anything!))
Prisoners returned + 16 / 9:00PM / Various locations in Marshswamp
AUBRECK:
(So it is approximately 300 miles to Waterdeep although Aubreck and Vertheg are going to catch a lift on a ship travelling out of Marshswamp today (Prisoners returned + 16) Likely on a sailing ship. The travel time for them to get there, exchange the documents, get the money and stones and then come back will be 6 days.)
ELIANDER:
He would explain that final plans are being put into motion and that there will be a final meeting in 7 days from today (Prisoners returned + 16) which will include representation from all allies including Marshswamp council, Lizardfolk leadership and head representatives from the Merfolk and Locathah. At this meeting, the final plans will be determined and then set into motion. The meeting will take place here in Marshswamp at the council hall in 7 days.
XENDROS:
She shakes your hand, accepting the terms. (200gp down, and 800gp to be paid on delivery of items in 5 days from today Prisoners returned + 16. Subtracting 100gp for each day late.)
Korrik makes note of Hanna's behavior, and mentions it to Ben if he encounters him before heading to the Net.
Korrik will down his first mug and set it down on top of a gold coin that he slides across the bartop for Kreb.
"Yeah, been busy. There's sharkfolk in the ocean round these parts, the lizardfolk thing is to try contain them before they start causing more trouble. Been a bit busy to be taking meetings, but thanks for the heads up."
"Live fights? Any rules? If one were to want to join in, what would they need to do?"
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
DM:Forged in Chaos, Spiders of the Abyss, The Sundered Way, Champions of the Citadel
"If you're set on rending the teeth from your head, I completely understand. Bro. But perhaps while you're at it you can have those new teeth enchanted as well?"
Ben watches Ess do the sign and tries to smile but he... He just can't.
---
Ben gives Kiorna a wink and smile at not mentioning he performs and pats his lute.
"I'll speak with Hannah, she said she had another performance scheduled when I saw her this morning. I know I wouldn't like it if my show was cut short because someone else just showed up and knew the owner! If not, I would be glad to give you a private performance?"
He nods at Kiorna's understanding of business,
"A client is a client, whether they've got hooves, horns or tusks! Business first."
---
Ben will do his best to convey his concern at the timeline,
"We would very much like to attend the meeting, I think we are in an excellent position to lend council. The issue we have is that if we are going to participate in the conflict after the meeting we'd like the time to prepare ourselves. Even a delay of a day would likely be sufficient for us to do that."
He will conclude with,
"A day's delay could potentially be what we Heroes need to successfully fill whatever roll the alliance certainly has for us."
((Guessing there is no point in arguing it with her based on the text so I won't roll anything.))
---
At the inn Ben would choose the 5 GP wine to start with and preorder some appetizers.
Ben would inquire as to the name of Hanna's performer, does he know of them?
Dunno, history?:6
He does wonder at her odd attitude,
Insight: 13
Persuasion: 27
He'll keep the conversation light with Kiorna during the evening. Asking her about her business, what brought her to town, her plans and goals. He'll probe a bit about her thoughts on the town council and get a feel for her politics.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
((Well probably going to need a performance roll with that.))
Ben will cast enhance ability, and using the magic of his lute, sing and show a song he calls, "The Fate of the Widow".
It has some recognizable characters *cough*, all of whom are heroic. There is no mention of treasure and a lot of focus on finding family heirlooms and learning the fate of the poor, lost sailors.
"I think we need to get to Neverwinter to get some better equipment and I can finally get rid of the silk. If we leave tomorrow we can manage it in time to be back for the meeting. I can talk to the Abbey interests and explain the situation and guarantee we'll address their situation after whatever is decided at the meeting. Should be enough to secure their support and not tie us up between. If not, I am not inclined to accept the job."
He taps a bit of the ship's hull,
"Pending the size of their payment, of course."
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I will prepare the next post properly later this morning, but Ben, I'm going to need a second persuasion check for Kiorna to accept the offer to your private residence. That is pretty forward. If you fail this check, the 25 still stands for dinner, but you'll have to figure something else out, it will have to be in a public place.
I will post results of all of it in the next post along with the timing of the date, Ash's business results, etc. etc.
((If she isn't keen on eating there Ben wouldn't have pushed that, he just thought it would be a nicer experience than a tavern! In that case he'd ask her preference on the Goat or the Line.
Sorry Spider, no cooking for Kay it seems!))
"Sure, just let me know what sort of fare you have in mind... though inviting a woman to the place your house sitting, to be served a meal cooked by one of your friends... might set an odd vibe for a first date? Understand if you're not looking to parade your woman of the week in front of Hanna, but might be better to wait until a third date before you bring her back to the mansion? Give us time to get the place cleaned up, too. And if things go well, I can always go for a walk after serving dessert..."
DM: Forged in Chaos, Spiders of the Abyss, The Sundered Way, Champions of the Citadel
Active Characters:
Breldo, Halfling Ranger | Kathryn, Wood Elf Rogue/Ranger | Kroshav, Dragonborn Paladin | T'laren Farsiel, Wood Elf Fighter | Trill, Kenku Bard | Val "Janellae", Mark of Shadow Elf Warlock
((Ben wouldn't have probably brought it up with Kay had she already been uncomfortable, but we'll roll!))
"Excellent points. She also seemed more like she wanted a more public venue for the first date. I'm glad to hear you're interested. We'll see how things go. Also, please don't call her my woman of week, that is rather disrespectful."
He thinks a while as he looks between the ships and says absently,
"I'm not so much concerned with Hanna seeing me with her, it is a very small town. I have no illusions she won't hear of the date, but I am a bit confused at her sudden change in demeanor. Normally it comes after..."
He waves away the thought,
"Well, something usually happens to precipitate the change."
Ben shifts his attention to the vessel's captain and wanders over to her waving Kay along,
"Do you often make runs to Neverwinter? How much would it cost to take passengers? How fast could you make the trip without a load?"
"Noted.", Korrik raises his hands in a placating gesture before grinning.
"Besides, we were on a ship for the last two weeks.
DM: Forged in Chaos, Spiders of the Abyss, The Sundered Way, Champions of the Citadel
Active Characters:
Breldo, Halfling Ranger | Kathryn, Wood Elf Rogue/Ranger | Kroshav, Dragonborn Paladin | T'laren Farsiel, Wood Elf Fighter | Trill, Kenku Bard | Val "Janellae", Mark of Shadow Elf Warlock
"You think she was upset about us - me - being gone?"
He looks down at Korrik,
"No need to speculate, really. Though, speaking of being on a boat for two weeks, when was the last time you were on a date? Or were intimate with anything beyond that giant toad you spent time in?"
He looks back up and tries to hide a smirk,
"I can inquire with Kiorna if she has a friend? Or perhaps she has a taxidermied toad?"
"I mean, she was out of town and I think you said seemed a bit off before we left without much word of when we'd return... she might just be pissed at you. Oh, don't worry about me, while you were making nice with the orc, I had a tryst with a mermaid. She wanted me to run away and join her undersea kingdom, she was a princess there, but I was worried you lot couldn't find your way back to the ship without me."
"Sure, ask if she's got a stuffed toad for your halfling friend to shove down his pants, I'm sure that'll go over well.", Korrik smirks.
"Though I suppose if the date's not going well and you need an out..."
DM: Forged in Chaos, Spiders of the Abyss, The Sundered Way, Champions of the Citadel
Active Characters:
Breldo, Halfling Ranger | Kathryn, Wood Elf Rogue/Ranger | Kroshav, Dragonborn Paladin | T'laren Farsiel, Wood Elf Fighter | Trill, Kenku Bard | Val "Janellae", Mark of Shadow Elf Warlock
"Hmm. I have always wondered about mermaid autonomy and how the... fish parts functioned. I don't suppose your mermaid tryst cleared that up?"
He chuckles merrily,
"I was thinking a giant toad but you've clearly got your preferences! It would certainly be a hard question to recover from."
Ash, Xendros cracks a slight grin and says "Fine. If the items are late, my suppliers shall be paying the discount. Ha ha ha!" and she laughs.
She smiles fully now. "Just rolling it downhill, dear."
She shakes your hand, accepting the terms. (200gp down, and 800gp to be paid on delivery of items in 5 days from today. Subtracting 100gp for each day late.)
Ash how will you pay her the 200gp down?
Ess responds to Korrik about the money "Oh my bro. You're right. As usual! Damn my homie I'm so glad we met bro. You know, you kind of like keep me on the level, know what I'm sayin' bro? Alright I'll be more cool about the money. Never thought it'd attract thieves but come to think of it the DRG sent me on missions to look out for this exact behavior."
He ponders that for a moment.
"Woah. Full circle or what, bro! So yeah, I'll try to keep the money on the downlow."
"But bro, don't try and talk me out of the grillz. It's gonna happen next time we're in Neverwinter, bro!"
Ben, timing wise, the dinner can happen tonight for sure. It will be a late dinner is all. When you mention your private residence that you have on loan, Kiorna initially gets a bit uncomfortable, but then your explanation smooths the moment over and she responds "HA! My friend, have you ever been to the Goat? Not sure we'd be able to get a word in edgewise given how boisterous it is in there!"
"Let's go to the Line. I know the owner. Real nice woman. They usually have fine performances there too. I haven't been in probably longer than I think. Been so busy with work!"
"I've got to finish a few flats of leather, but I'll clean up after real quick and meet you at the Line, say for 9:00pm? We should be able to grab dinner and catch the last act!"
Ben, the captain says "Of course, mate. Welcome to my life! We run the northern coastline day in and day out, lad. Luskan, Neverwinter, Waterdeep mostly. Been known to take longer trips south, but not with the upcoming season."
"Ships passage? That's all ye'd need? Huh. Well there's no way I'd be sending an empty ship anywhere lad. Although I suppose you could stow aboard on a route. 15 gold." he looks at all of you. "Each."
Ess has a good chuckle at Ben and Korrik's bantering. he says "DUDES. Not sure why you're even worrying about the ladies, they're just gonna take all your money bros!!" and then he says "Er... not you, Ashy!"
Prisoners returned + 16 / 2:00PM / Docks, departing to Lizardfolk cave, arms delivery
After the ship is loaded, the captain does his final preparations and you all depart for the Lizardfolk cave to deliver Queen Othokent's arms order that you brokered.
The trip takes 3 hours, one way.
Regarding the Queen, if you want to RP this by all means let me know and we will. Otherwise, the queen would be very pleased with the order after it is offloaded from the ship and then she would pay you the remaining amount owing for the order. She would also tell you the same information about the upcoming conflict and meeting that Eliander did (it's in the spoiler below) and she hopes very much that she will see all of you at that meeting. She promises to keep this arms deal confidential.
She pays you the remaining balance for the weapons and armor. 27 electrum ingots. She has one of her officers wheel them out on a cart.
So they are paying 2,715 gp (54.3 ingots) 27 up front, 27 upon delivery for those weapons and armor, specifically.
Again, happy to RP more with the Queen if you have questions for her!
So you arrive back in town at 8:15pm. The captain was able to catch some nice winds and so Ben has time to get ready for his date. If he's still going?
Also, what will the others do? Ess will just head up to a room at the Line. The arrangement you had has kind of fallen off the radar since you've been gone for two weeks, but there are rooms available at the Line should you want to stay there.
Prisoners returned + 16 / 8:15PM / Marshswamp
Over to you!
AUBRECK:
(So it is approximately 300 miles to Waterdeep although Aubreck and Vertheg are going to catch a lift on a ship travelling out of Marshswamp today (Prisoners returned + 16) Likely on a sailing ship. The travel time for them to get there, exchange the documents, get the money and stones and then come back will be 6 days.)
ELIANDER:
He would explain that final plans are being put into motion and that there will be a final meeting in 7 days from today (Prisoners returned + 16) which will include representation from all allies including Marshswamp council, Lizardfolk leadership and head representatives from the Merfolk and Locathah. At this meeting, the final plans will be determined and then set into motion. The meeting will take place here in Marshswamp at the council hall in 7 days.
XENDROS:
She shakes your hand, accepting the terms. (200gp down, and 800gp to be paid on delivery of items in 5 days from today Prisoners returned + 16. Subtracting 100gp for each day late.)
"I suppose if anyone could sweet talk their way out of a question like that, it's you."
Korrik will head up to the Line for dinner, and see if he can glean anything from Hanna's behavior in general, but towards the party in particular.
Insight: 15
After, he'll head down to the Empty Net and sit at the bar and chat with Kreb a bit, just trying to get a low down on if anything of note has happened while they've been gone. Ess or Ash are welcome to join him.
DM: Forged in Chaos, Spiders of the Abyss, The Sundered Way, Champions of the Citadel
Active Characters:
Breldo, Halfling Ranger | Kathryn, Wood Elf Rogue/Ranger | Kroshav, Dragonborn Paladin | T'laren Farsiel, Wood Elf Fighter | Trill, Kenku Bard | Val "Janellae", Mark of Shadow Elf Warlock
((Definitely on for dinner still! Will post more later when I get a moment.))
Ash responds to Ess with a grin, “I WOULD take all your money, to be fair… just without any of that messy relationship business in between! Ha!”. She gives him a wink, and a sly grin, and looks more like a thief somehow than usual.
With Xendros, Ash shakes her hand, and counts out 200gp in good, old, honest-to-goodness gold. “Pleasure doing business with you. If this transaction proceeds smoothly, I may have more dealings with you in the future”. ((200gp removed from personal funds)).
Ash will take far too long bathing at the Inn (and washing and drying and brushing her fur) before eventually catching up with Ess and Korrik at the Empty Net. It might be her first time there. I don’t recall. “My kind of place!”, she says, approaching the boys already well settled in there.
GILLAIN OF ATHKATLA - Human Paladin - Into the Mists PHILLIP THE GRUNG - Grung Eldritch Knight - Tomb of Annihilation
ROBWIN WINDROBE - High Elf Wizard - Dragon of Icespire Peak EVE DARKSHORE - Tiefling Warlock - Rime of the Frost Maiden
ASH OF THE FIRE - Tabaxi Rogue - Ghosts of Marshswamp LIA STARBORN - Aasimar Bard - Out of the Abyss
"Ess, bro, I am fairly certain you can have your teeth magically enchanted to glow on command for a similar price to getting them covered in gold or exchanged for gold. I am not exactly sure how a grillz works. If you are going to be flashy, maybe also be useful? Bro."
---
Ben smiles and replies to Kiorna,
"No, I have never been to the Goat. Good to know!"
When she suggests the Line Ben will nod,
"The Line is pleasant, it is where I have been staying since coming to Swampmarsh. I have performed there a few times in fact, though you've likely been too busy to attend. Hanna is very nice indeed, she was very welcoming when we first arrived. I normally encounter a bit of prejudiced and mistrust but she was both friendly and forthright. I will see you there at 9 tonight, Hanna mentioned she had a good act coming in?"
---
Ben bows to Queen Othokent on arriving and says,
"Everything is here, as promised. Unfortunately only slightly ahead of schedule. It has been busy!"
He smiles and continues,
"Speaking of busy, I understand from Eliander that there is a meeting in Marshswamp in 7 days to discuss the plans? I am curious what you can tell us in advance. Should we expect that our attack will come directly after the meeting? The reason I ask is because my companions and I need to take trip to prepare ourselves better for the coming war. A week, in all honesty. We would go now but we worry about not getting back in time for the meeting."
---
He will go and claim himself a table for two and have a waiter get things setup and prepare a nice bottle of wine before trying to find Hanna. He'll open with,
"I hope you're doing well tonight! I see things are as busy always."
Before jumping into the ask,
"Is there any chance I can get a few minutes of time on the stage?"
((He is definitely looking to out perform whoever is currently playing!))
Korrik will let Ben handle the negotiations with the Queen, but he'll give an acknowledging nod to the warrior that accompanied them to take out the croc, if she's around.
DM: Forged in Chaos, Spiders of the Abyss, The Sundered Way, Champions of the Citadel
Active Characters:
Breldo, Halfling Ranger | Kathryn, Wood Elf Rogue/Ranger | Kroshav, Dragonborn Paladin | T'laren Farsiel, Wood Elf Fighter | Trill, Kenku Bard | Val "Janellae", Mark of Shadow Elf Warlock
((Oh, missed the captain's thing for passage...You know what, it is something that can be negotiated on the way back after we know what kind of timeline we'll have after the meeting.))
((again, apologies all! Work is very busy for me these days, so the game will be slower for right now))
((some of this might not be in chronological order))
Korrik, Ess comes with you and you go for dinner at the Line. (-5sp, same for Ess. The free meals deal has kind of dropped off the radar/has been forgotten about and hasn't been set back up yet.) Korrik, Hanna is different. You aren't sure why, but with that roll you just get a sense that she is acting different. Not mean, not rude. She's being pleasant and everything. She's just different than before.
Korrik, afterwards you head to the Empty Net and have a chat with Kreb. "Korrik, right yeh I remember ya. What's been going on 'round here lately?" he leans in a bit, looking for you to pay him some gold like you did the last time you spoke with him. (I am going to assume that you flip him a coin or two, just let me know how much)
"I kept my ear to the ground like we talked about, my friend." he pats you on the shoulder and takes your coin(s) you give him. "There's whisperings of war. Something about Marshswamp joining forces with the Lizards? I dunno. Not familiar with the details, although I'll tell you one thing my friend, it's been keeping my establishment busy though let me tell ya!"
He leans in even further. "With all the talk of war, the attention of the smuggling rings has essentially dropped off the radar. I mean, after the bust and all, how can you blame them. It's just... IF one still did exist, I bet now'd be the time for their prime action, if you know what I mean. No one likes attention you know. You ever speak to G like I said?"
and then he raises his eyebrow, goes and helps someone else at the bar and continues as it starts to get quite busy with a larger group of folks entering the establishment.
Ash, you could also speak with Kreb if you'd like as you came with Korrik "Ash, pleasure. You part of the whole smuggling bust a few weeks ago yes?"
Ash and Korrik, Kreb tells you that there is a special even in the basement of the Empty Net tavern tonight if you're interested.
It's prize fighting.
"Lads put on a helluva show. Heck so do the lasses. Good bit of coin usually up for grabs with the betting. We run it later on, usually 11 or so."
Ess looks at the two of you with eyes wide. (he came with you to the Empty Net) "DUDE! Live fights! Bro, Ashy, I'm down if you guys are. Ben's gonna be busy tonight anyways, hahaha!"
Ash, Xendros takes the gold coins. "Most excellent. Return in 5 days and you shall have your cap and ring and I shall have the remaining balance paid." and she grins at you and escorts you out of the building.
Ben, Ess would've responded "DUDE. Magic isn't going to cut it. I want the real thing. Extraction of the teeth and replacement with gold ones, my bro. the grillllzzzzzzz my man!!" and then he makes the gang sign again.
Ben, Kiorna is surprised but happy when you tell her your experience at the Line and that you know Hanna, etc. etc. "You.. you perform?! Ben! Why didn't you say anything! You will have to perform tonight then!" she kind of bows her head when you mention the prejudice "Yes. This town has never been able to rid itself of it's prejudices. That's one thing I've always loved about Hanna. She's different. Always has been since I've known her anyway. Although she'd be an idiot to turn down a customer regardless, haha!"
Ben, the queen is so happy with everything that maybe she overshares a bit. I mean, why wouldn't she. Given your 20 floor persuasion and the relationship that you've all built with her. "Yessssssss. Marshswamp, the final meetings. Final preperationsssssss. Representaions from all allies to attend. You Heroes of Marshswamp to attend as well!?" she smiles. "Yes. final preparations to happen during meeting. Then plan put to action. Yes. Right away."
"Meeting cannot be delayed! Offensive cannot wait. The time is now."
She explains that they need to move immediately to avoid the sahaugin finding out about their offensive.
She would thank you again for the weapons deal and hopes to see you at the meeting.
Oh, Korrik, the lizardfolk who helped with the croc, Aryte. She is there and she gives you a nod. Wait, did she crack a smile too? Yep, she did.
Ben, you are able to find a table for two and get the wine. The waiter presents you with a 1gp, a 5gp and a 10gp bottle. There are other more expensive ones as well the waiter explains if you're interested. So you get this all set up and then speak with Hanna. "Ben! Yes, busy as always! Ummm... tonight? Well, I do have an act booked. Beautiful elven harpist from Neverwinter...."
OK eventually Kiorna would enter, and you would sit. It would just be the waiter who comes over to help you throughout the night, but Hanna sees you sitting with Kiorna for sure. Kiorna would also eventually go and speak with Hanna, and it seems they just have a normal friendly "hi, hello, how are you" type of deal and then Kiorna comes back and sits.
Ben, I need some rolls.
- Insight for Hanna
- Persuasion to Hanna for opportunity to perform (20 doesn't cut it, the elven harpist is well known)
- Maybe another CHA based check depending on what you might want to say to Kiorna during the date?
((Let me know if I missed anything!))
Prisoners returned + 16 / 9:00PM / Various locations in Marshswamp
AUBRECK:
(So it is approximately 300 miles to Waterdeep although Aubreck and Vertheg are going to catch a lift on a ship travelling out of Marshswamp today (Prisoners returned + 16) Likely on a sailing ship. The travel time for them to get there, exchange the documents, get the money and stones and then come back will be 6 days.)
ELIANDER:
He would explain that final plans are being put into motion and that there will be a final meeting in 7 days from today (Prisoners returned + 16) which will include representation from all allies including Marshswamp council, Lizardfolk leadership and head representatives from the Merfolk and Locathah. At this meeting, the final plans will be determined and then set into motion. The meeting will take place here in Marshswamp at the council hall in 7 days.
XENDROS:
She shakes your hand, accepting the terms. (200gp down, and 800gp to be paid on delivery of items in 5 days from today Prisoners returned + 16. Subtracting 100gp for each day late.)
Cap of water breathing and the Ring of swimming
Korrik makes note of Hanna's behavior, and mentions it to Ben if he encounters him before heading to the Net.
Korrik will down his first mug and set it down on top of a gold coin that he slides across the bartop for Kreb.
"Yeah, been busy. There's sharkfolk in the ocean round these parts, the lizardfolk thing is to try contain them before they start causing more trouble. Been a bit busy to be taking meetings, but thanks for the heads up."
"Live fights? Any rules? If one were to want to join in, what would they need to do?"
DM: Forged in Chaos, Spiders of the Abyss, The Sundered Way, Champions of the Citadel
Active Characters:
Breldo, Halfling Ranger | Kathryn, Wood Elf Rogue/Ranger | Kroshav, Dragonborn Paladin | T'laren Farsiel, Wood Elf Fighter | Trill, Kenku Bard | Val "Janellae", Mark of Shadow Elf Warlock
To Ess about the grillz,
"If you're set on rending the teeth from your head, I completely understand. Bro. But perhaps while you're at it you can have those new teeth enchanted as well?"
Ben watches Ess do the sign and tries to smile but he... He just can't.
---
Ben gives Kiorna a wink and smile at not mentioning he performs and pats his lute.
"I'll speak with Hannah, she said she had another performance scheduled when I saw her this morning. I know I wouldn't like it if my show was cut short because someone else just showed up and knew the owner! If not, I would be glad to give you a private performance?"
He nods at Kiorna's understanding of business,
"A client is a client, whether they've got hooves, horns or tusks! Business first."
---
Ben will do his best to convey his concern at the timeline,
"We would very much like to attend the meeting, I think we are in an excellent position to lend council. The issue we have is that if we are going to participate in the conflict after the meeting we'd like the time to prepare ourselves. Even a delay of a day would likely be sufficient for us to do that."
He will conclude with,
"A day's delay could potentially be what we Heroes need to successfully fill whatever roll the alliance certainly has for us."
((Guessing there is no point in arguing it with her based on the text so I won't roll anything.))
---
At the inn Ben would choose the 5 GP wine to start with and preorder some appetizers.
Ben would inquire as to the name of Hanna's performer, does he know of them?
Dunno, history?:6
He does wonder at her odd attitude,
Insight: 13
Persuasion: 27
He'll keep the conversation light with Kiorna during the evening. Asking her about her business, what brought her to town, her plans and goals. He'll probe a bit about her thoughts on the town council and get a feel for her politics.
Cha roll if needed(?): 10
((Well probably going to need a performance roll with that.))
Ben will cast enhance ability, and using the magic of his lute, sing and show a song he calls, "The Fate of the Widow".
It has some recognizable characters *cough*, all of whom are heroic. There is no mention of treasure and a lot of focus on finding family heirlooms and learning the fate of the poor, lost sailors.
Performance21
Oh, and on the boat back from the queen meeting,
"I think we need to get to Neverwinter to get some better equipment and I can finally get rid of the silk. If we leave tomorrow we can manage it in time to be back for the meeting. I can talk to the Abbey interests and explain the situation and guarantee we'll address their situation after whatever is decided at the meeting. Should be enough to secure their support and not tie us up between. If not, I am not inclined to accept the job."
He taps a bit of the ship's hull,
"Pending the size of their payment, of course."