Korrik, when Ess eventually hears about the rings, he says "dude... that's deep. Man I wish I would've known but I totally get why you didn't say anything. Dude don't worry about it we all made it out safe right bro! If you ever need to talk my homie just let me know. I'm feeling better now so yeah bro, if you need someone to talk to don't be shy ok my bro??"
((thank you all for the level up's! Cool RP!!))
Ess manages to get rid of the sea sickness and one night in the cabin he says "He guys, look how many pushups I can do now!" and he tries to break a record for the number of pushups he can do.
He breaks his record, and he feels stronger because of it. That night he gets an extra long restful sleep. (HP +7 bump plus extra attack!)
Ben and Korrik, Krell explains that he is a 'druid' but he cannot change shape. Given the charm person and whatnot, I think he'd eventually tell you everything about himself. "HUH. You not remember Krell? You have short memory. Yes, Krell study strong magics."
Ben, after you tell the captain about Krell and his magic, the captain almost insists that Krell is killed. "AYE! We toss him overboard once the deed is done. ye want to beat him up, go for it. Matters not to me. As long as he's not brought back to land I'm good with whatever ye want to do. I'd rather not waste a hand guarding him either."
Ben, Krell would've said about the cocoons "HA! No one come. Krell needed sacrifices. Krell sacrifice spidermen for queen."
Ash, Krell would indeed know what the items in that box were. It was his box, after all. "HAH! Yes Krell keep items in box. Krell's trinkets GAAAAH."
Regarding Aubreck, Ess would've said "Open it! Open it! Open it!"
Then he gets serious, more serious that you've seen him.
"Dudes. Look at what we just did. That was more intense than anything we've done yet by a longshot. Bros my vote is that we open the damn thing. We deserve to know."
As the discussion continued, he'd eventually see it your way and agree with the plan, but let it be known that he wanted to open it and if anyone also wanted to in that moment we can retro.
Ess eventually fist bumps for the plan. "Dudes, if this guy is legit we're gonna have a ton of coin. Yeah I wonder how he's doin on the weapons?"
Ben, great discussion with the captain because if that prep wasn't done, Krell would've raised hell with his thunderwave magic in the brig.
Ok so if there are no objections, Krell is killed by the dwarves (or one of you want to kill him?? lol) and dumped in the sea on the trip back. He's evil to the core and he would've started to act aggressively after the charm person magic wore off. He would be screaming that he will be more than happy to die in Lolth's honor. The dwarves would've made that executive decision to kill him if none of you did. For the safety of the crew and ship.
I assume you will be returning to Aubreck immediately upon return? Or, to the Snapping Line Inn? Or somewhere else? It is 7am, overcast. The usual scene back in the Marshswamp docks. Busy as heck, people bustling everywhere and a few ships also coming and going.
((Korrik would assist in disposing of Krell if needed.))
"I don't think the cloak helps me, I've already got a ring that does much the same. Ess's got good armor, and Ash is hard to pin down, so maybe best for Ben to take it? Or it makes Ess or Ash even more protected?"
When everyone lines up to disembark, when the party finally makes it off the ship, they find Korrik waiting in an alley for them.
"No more waiting in lines if I can help it!"
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
DM:Forged in Chaos, Spiders of the Abyss, The Sundered Way, Champions of the Citadel
Korrik, the dwarves would take you up on your offer to help dispose of Krell. No one else in the party offers to help, and so this all happens when the others are down in the cabin.
Korrik:
Krell would be blindfolded, bound and gagged and walked over to the side of the ship by two of the strongest looking dwarves that you've seen on this ship. Just built like tanks.
Krell already looks really bad considering what he's been through. The dwarves are holding him, so you'd have advantage on any attack that you might want to do as a kill before he's pushed into the sea.
Korrik, you'd notice that the wind has picked up a bit as you walk out with the dwarves and Krell. You can hear it whistling a bit, too. In a way that you've never quite heard before. Even the wind, it feels... different.
Please explain in detail the attack and then roll for it.
Prisoners returned+ 16 / 07:00AM / Marshswamp Dock
((very cool about the shadow teleportation for the lines haha, I can't wait to see that in combat.))
Ess kisses the ground once you all depart the Soul of Winter. "Duuuuudes! We made it bros!!" and he turns away trying to hide the fact that he's crying a little again. Once he clears himself up, he says "Bros, after we hit up Aubreck, let's go to the Line and grab some food bros. I can't WAIT to eat some real food my bros! I am one damn hungry homeboy let me tell ya."
I am assuming you all just go and knock on his door, if it's something different please let me know.
You're greeted by Vertheg who looks like he just woke up but then his eyes open in excitement as he remembers you and starts to yell for Aubreck. "BOSS!! WAKE UP! THEY BACK! THEY BACK!"
A few minutes later, you see Aubreck in a dirty old robe come out, eyes squinting from the emerging daylight and then he sees all of you.
"AH! BEN! All of you! You are back! By the gods I thought you all were done for! *ahem* but I am very deeply happy to see you all alive! How... how did it go?" he looks at you in a hopeful way but he is anticipating hearing a mouthful given how you all look after the 7 days of travel.
Ess starts to say something and then stops himself and waits for Ben.
He knows better by now.
You can see that Aubreck is anxiously and awkwardly looking for the box as well as he gets used to being awake for the first time today.
You'd smell booze on him, too given the passive perceptions.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Korrik will have them affix a weight to Krell, then grimly nods to the dwarves before inflicting a series of sharp blows to Krell's throat and torso. The blows are light, a jab of the finger here, a rap of a knuckle there, intended to stun, rather than harm. Once Krell is gasping and unable to draw breath, the halfling nods to the two dwarves to chuck him over where he rapidly vanishes under the waves. When the interruption to the half-orc's ki fades, and he's able to draw a breath, seawater floods his lungs and he rapidly drowns.
13 26 20 26
Will spend a ki on each hit until he fails a DC 13 CON Save vs stunning strike. Once he fails, he's stunned.
"Aren't you going to invite us in for some tea or coffee? Then Ben can tell you the whole story in comfort. He tells tales much better when his throat has been properly wet."
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
DM:Forged in Chaos, Spiders of the Abyss, The Sundered Way, Champions of the Citadel
Ash would have offered to assist killing Krell if no one else had. It would have been bloodier… But when Korrik offers, she knows that’s the right move. She leaves it to him, and doesn’t interfere. She stays in the cabin, thinking the deed might at least go some little way towards closure for Korrik. She knows it won’t really… but she gives him that moment nonetheless.
Aside from that, Ash is quiet for the trip back. She’s desperate to be back on land. And she worries about the ocean-battle they’ve signed themselves up for. She will need magic to survive that. The thought of relying on magic, relying on anything other than her instinct and reflexes, isn’t in her nature.
She remains businesslike all the way up to Albreck’s place. The job not done until money’s changed hands. She leaves the initial negotiations, and telling their tale, to their expert…
She hopes they won’t need to call on HER expertise for this part… but she’s ready if they do.
"Good morning Aubreck, we're back. A tea would be lovely, mint if you have it. Yes, we're back and glad to have made it back. I must caution you that we bring both good and bad tidings."
He'll let that settle for dramatic effect and to let Vertheg take the coffee and tea orders and leave.
"We found the Widow, still afloat - if only just. There was no sign of the crew and it had been clearly ravaged by some beast and blood stained the deck."
He looks Aubreck in the eyes before continuing,
"Once we explored more we found the vessel infested with spiders. Spiders of all sizes, along with horrid purple spider monstrosities. We defeated some and found a clue to the fate of your crew."
He nods for Kay to hand Aubreck the ship's log and to read it before continuing.
"We descended into the bowels of the ship into the hold where we found it filled with water...and undead creatures. Kay and Ash secured your box as quickly as they could and began to flee from those... abominations. And that, Aubreck, is when things got honestly and truly horrific."
His gaze passes over his fellows as he continues,
"For then, yes at the very moment we touched that box, a giant octopus the size of a hill began an assault on the Widow. We only just were able to cast ourselves from the Widow before it was dragged to a watery, final end. As luck would have it a foul druid of the Spider Queen dwelling on the boat escaped as well and we interrogated him before dispatching him."
He'll explain briefly about the Lolth cult.
"The Winter and it's crew are to be commended for remaining to gather us and not simply fleeing at the sight."
He ends the story there and sips his tea before pretending to remember something and reaching down to the bag of holding and pulling out Aubreck's box. He doesn't hand it over, keeping a hand on it as he asks,
"What's in the box that's so valuable? It would be a shame to have gone through all that for nothing! It is obscenely heavy."
Then, again as if an after thought,
"Oh, and how did your acquisitions of the items on our list go? I would love to be able to pay you that promised bonus."
He sniffs the linger scent of alcohol in the air,
"If everything has gone, and will go, well, we had discussed offering you a key, lucrative position in upcoming partnership."
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
((If Ben's 20 floor for persuasion doesn't get Aubreck to tell, and preferably show them the contents of the box he'll hit him with,
"Have you been drinking?"
Mildly accusingly (-5 on his wisdom save DC 15 for the suggestion spell that he rolls into as,
"Don't you think you should at least open the box immediately to make sure the contents are okay? And since you're checking you might as well tell us about it!"))
Korrik, all of your delicate yet sharp and stunning blows all easily hit the restrained half orc who the dwarves have also tied a weight to. It's an old anchor, probably much heavier than what is going to be needed to sink Krell, but they needed to get rid of it and so they decide to use it.
After the second strike, Krell becomes stunned and gasping for air, the dwarves nod back at you and then dump Krell and the anchor into the sea. It takes 2 dwarves to lift and dump the anchor and another 2 to dump Krell! "Be gone with ye, dirty scum."one of the dwarves mumble as he wipes his hands and walks off back to the underdeck.
Korrik:
All of the dwarves eventually leave as well, and then Korrik for a moment you are alone on the deck. It is windier than before Krell was dumped and you see numerous small water/mist tornadoes emerge from the tops of some of the waves. It's quite fascinating. However, one of them in particular is a lot bigger than the others, and it seems to have smaller funnels also branching out from each side of the main swirling air/water tube. You squint at it, and notice they look more like arms than funnels. Wait, does the top of it have a head? And then in that moment it elevates from the wave and swirls upwards, vanishing as it gets 15-20 feet up.
Korrik, Aubreck responds "*ahem* yes yes please excuse me Korrik, I've just woken and haven't had my morning coffee yet. VERTHEG! COFFEE!" and then Aubreck does indeed welcome you in and you all sit in his foyer and the discussion begins with Ben leading the way.
"Tea? Yes, we've tea, but not mint. VERTHEG! THE TEA, TOO! *ahem* yes, anyhow, it is great to see you all again. To be honest I thought you were all dead. I mean it has been 14 days since you left!"
"you.. you found the Widow?! By the gods! Spiders? MONSTERS? Wait what about the crew?" and then he takes and reads the logs. He takes a deep sigh. he looks genuinely sad. "I mean, what else did I expect really."he returns the look in your eyes "Ben, thank you for this log."
"Oh my lord you FOUND MY BOX!?" he looks ecstatic and then he listens on as you tell him about the giant octopus. His excitement quickly turns to concern and then he stops looking at you in the eye. "Oh... my word. This must've been unimaginable."
"Spider Queen? Wow... this is all so much. Ben, Korrik, Ess and... er.. Ush was it? Listen I don't know what to say other than to give you my immense thanks. This is more than I would've ever imagined and I truly would not have asked you or anyone else for that matter to try and go through what you all did for me."
Ben then gets the box out and Aubreck continues to respond. The 20 floor along with the actual returning of the box is enough for Aubreck to tell what is in the box, but he doesn't open it without the suggestion spell. He failed that save, so he basically tells you everything!
Aubreck starts to tear up. "Yes. YES I have been drinking Ben. Like I said, I thought you, all of you were done for. I thought my life was done for. My entire life savings are in that box, Ben."
He proceeds to open up about a few things to explain what exactly is in the box. ((there's a bit of repeat but a good refresher))
Aubreck Drallion once counted himself among the richest folk of his city. His trade fleet was one of the largest and most prosperous of its kind, with hundreds of ships under his banner dodging storms, pirate raids, and aquatic monsters to carry goods across the world.
Yet Aubreck’s success perhaps came too fast and too easily; although his profits eventually stabilized, his ambition kept expanding. Years ago, his contacts in Chult reported that he could monopolize trade in rare spices and herbs by making heavy investments in the area. Aubreck took the opportunity as a sure thing and leaped at the chance to get even richer. He sold off many of his assets and converted the proceeds to property deeds and promissory notes, then secured that portable wealth aboard the Widow, the foremost ship in his fleet.
Aubreck’s plan was to convert these notes back into cash when the ship reached its destination in the south, but fate introduced a cruel twist, and the Widow disappeared. A storm separated the ship from its escort, and it was never heard from again. Aubreck was devastated by the financial loss.
If you recall, the deeds and notes total 100,000 gp. His initial odder to you was 10%, and that was bumped to 25%.
Ben, you pull out the box and see once again that it's made of shiny blue metal.
Aubreck eyes it. "YES! That's it! Yes Ben, I will show you what's inside. Please hold it on your lap. It's heavy because it's magical."
And Aubreck says the word "Tildivarias" and you hear a *click*. "Ok Ben, go ahead and open it."
Ben, the box opens when you try.
Inside, you all see Aubreck’s deeds and promissory notes like he explained, still sealed in waterproof wrappings.
Aubreck says "YES! I can't believe this. I am BACK BABY!"
He would explain that those notes are drawn from a lawful good temple in Waterdeep where he bought the Widow from Trestan that will pay them out only after the original owner of the assets gives permission.
"VERTHEG! WE BACK BABY! Prepare our things, we're taking a trip South!"
((it's a little under 300 miles FYI))
"Um, could... could I have the documents, Ben?"
"Ben, Korrik, Ess and Ush, I shall pay you your reward upon my return to Marshswamp. Did you have a preferred method of payment? 25,000gp is a lot of coin! Or, perhaps you all want to accompany me to Waterdeep and we can decide on the way? I could use the protection! HA!"
Vertheg grunts.
Lastly, Aubreck responds to the arms order.
"Ben... I did it. You see, Vertheg has quite the past. And without getting into details, he was able to help me acquire the entire lot on your list. It's all downstairs in the cellar. I was going to get him to sell it back next week as I was afraid you were not coming back."
"But yes Ben, I have it all. VERTHEG! Show Ben the order downstairs."
Ben, the half orc butler would take you down there and you'd see everything is there.
Aubreck doesn't even mention asking about his 300gp bonus for getting the full order. He's so focused on having his deeds back.
OK what is next? I can lay out some of the pending stuff although I think it's all in our Marshswamp quests tab. Will you now to the town council and see Eliander and the other council members? Or maybe to the Snapping Line Inn? Ben maybe Hanna is back? Or perhaps something else in town? Maybe bring the weapons to the Lizardfolk Queen Othokent? Or a Waterdeep trip?
Ben is very pleased to hear the order was filled in full.
"Excellent, excellent!"
If the 300 gold isn't mentioned he won't remind Aubreck.
He examines the contents of the box before shifting it to a table for the others to check. His eye twitches faintly at the mention of going to Waterdeep.
"While we could head south with you we have outstanding obligations here that would make that kind of trip difficult to take, or at least immediately. I suspect you're interested in going today?"
He drums his fingers on the box thoughtfully but doesn't hand it over to Aubreck, though it is close enough for him to grab it if he wants.
"Not to say we don't trust you, but I am concerned you will be tempted to head south and keep going that direction. You likely don't need to cash out the full hundred thousand at once? Would you be amenable to leaving 25,000 of the notes here with us and when you get back with our payment we'll do a hand-off? Anything happens to the documents we are holding, no trade, so you're out nothing but an extra trip. Oh, and I think we're happy with gem equivalents of the money, or as much as possible and platinum."
He checks with the others.
"Unless we want to request items?"
((Let me know if the 20 floor don't cut it.))
"We are besides interested in providing you a business opportunity in town. Do you (what's his name?). Kay, if you wouldn't mind laying out our thoughts."
Ben would have Ess and Ash check the weapons so Aubreck isn't alone with the box.
---
((Ben would like to get the lizardfolk folk their weapons and the rest of that money but breakfast at the Line and checking on Hanna would be in order. After that a talk with the council and boat ride today so we can get back and do other things without a deadline hanging over our heads?))
"Ahem. Am I correct in assuming you have a competitive relationship with the other business folk in town? Marshswamp, by all accounts is an up and coming town, do you see yourself staying a player in this scene, or are you looking to relocate to the south?"
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
DM:Forged in Chaos, Spiders of the Abyss, The Sundered Way, Champions of the Citadel
Ash is delighted with how all of this goes down. And she doesn’t mind ‘Ush’ in the slightest. She thinks it’s kind of cute.
She was about to suggest that the party held on to their share of the papers until Aubreck returned, but Ben already had that angle covered.
She would check on the weapons order: meticulously checking and counting each item, to be sure they have it spot on.
And she’s totally up for the plan of: Inn >> Council >> boat >> Lizardfolk >> and back (within the day?). (Or any variation on that theme). That way, she can close enough of the cases in her mind to rest easy tonight.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Prisoners returned + 16 / 08:00AM / Aubreck's mansion
Ben, Aubreck will indeed not mention the 300gp bonus. Honestly, his mind is elsewhere and he simply doesn't remember the bonus.
He responds "Yes, today. I would like to leave right after this conversation actually. I... I just am so excited to get my life back on track and I have all of you to thank." he has a tear again.
Ben, Aubreck would slowly reach out and take the box if you'd let him. He'd say "Ben, Korrik, Ess, Ush. After what you've all explained to me about what you've done to retrieve this box for me, I wouldn't think twice about crossing you. This will be an extra trip for me though... hmmm...."
(The floor 20 is fine for that particular request.)
"Yes. Fine. You can keep 25,000 of the notes, and I shall cash the rest, return here with your funds and then we can make the final exchange. Gem equivalents? Right. Vertheg can handle the changing of the money for us. We will do what we can for you. I'm not keen on carrying bags and bags of coins either so yes I will do what I can."
He responds to Ben and Korrik "Business opportunity you say? To be honest, I came here because it was the cheapest spot I could find that was still half decent. I haven't been doing any business here as I've had no capital to do so. However, with my capital back in action I am planning on returning to Waterdeep to reestablish myself."
"I mean, sure this place might be *ahem* up and coming... but it's no Waterdeep." he kind of looks down on Marshswamp now that he's back in the money.
Fleeting loyalty to the town!
((If you were to try and persuade him to stay in Marshswamp for the time being to set up shop here, it will require a higher roll than the floor of 20, for sure. He had no intention of staying here whatsoever and has bigger plans elsewhere.))
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. 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 7 days.
Ok, please confirm about Aubreck and if you want to continue with the discussions about him staying in Marshswamp. Roll if necessary as well.
And then I will process this:
Inn >> Council >> Sell PPE skins >> Get rocks identified >> Find travel (boat) >> Load boat >> Lizardfolk >> and back (within the day?)
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Ben go through the box and pull out 25k worth of notes and place them, carefully, in the bag of holding.
He'll look up from that once its down and slide the box over to Aubreck to cuddle with. He understands.
He checks with Kay if he should give Aubreck a nudge, if he Kay gives him a nod or a sign, he'll turn to Aubreck while absently holding an eagle feather (enhance ability),
"I fully agree this is no Waterdeep but, like with this Chult place you were talking about, the places to make money are always going to be those that are up and coming. You can return to Waterdeep and fight tooth and nail to keep what you have or take another, smaller risk here. It is your call."
Persuasion: 30
((If Kay shrugs or doesn't care Ben is happy to call it a closed deal and head on.))
Korrik grins, meeting Ben's eyes and giving the barest shrug before he stands up to shake Aubreck's hand. "We wish you all the best in getting set up in Waterdeep, and look forward to your return. As Ben says, there are likely lots of opportunities for a fellow with the right nose for them... Especially if he had some associates to tell him where to sniff... but I understand the draw of big city life, I've felt that pull myself. If you feel you're better positioned to take up trade in Waterdeep, I'm sure you know best. I'm sure the contacts you must have been in correspondence with in the city will help get you set up in no time."
Ash gives Aubreck a deep curtsy-bow and wishes him well, “And if you ever need assistance with something that no one else can set right, you know who to ask for“. She gives him a big slow cat’s blink with a toothy Cheshire Cat grin.
"Safe travels, see you soon again. Should I let Eliander know you're leaving? Oh, and can we get a key to the house to get the weapons and armor in case you're gone before we have a moment to collect it? Shouldn't take more than a couple of hours, but I understand you're in a rush."
He gives Ash a glance and wink adding,
"Or we can let ourselves in and lock up behind? Your preference."
At Ben’s comment, Ash’s grin gets wider, if that’s even possible.
She can hardly believe they have a promise of 25,000gp from a thankful ally, and ALL the weapons and supplies for the Lizardfolk.
This is why she does what she does, for the moments when things seem to be coming up roses! The trauma of the boats is slowly fading, and her time held at the pleasure of the city of Neverwinter is gradually becoming a distant memory!
Some of the sentiment of this, would be visible in her grin.
Prisoners returned + 16 / 08:30AM / Aubreck's mansion
Ben, Aubreck ponders what you tell him. Probably for an awkwardly long time.
Then Korrik jumps in and again Aubreck thinks more about it and after probably longer than it should've taken (his mind is preoccupied with getting his documents cashed!!) he says "Hmm... Ben, you make an interesting point. You'll have to excuse me. I've been out of the 'game' so to speak ever since I lost everything. Now that you all have helped me I will be able to get back on my feet and make sound business decisions."
He rubs his chin.
"Perhaps like the one you're suggesting right now."
He looks at Korrik and tilts his head a bit and responds a bit quieter than he was just talking, but loud enough for everyone to still hear "and by chance would you know where to sniff around here, lad?"and he smiles at you.
Then he jokes "Hopefully not down at the docks - it reeks of dead fish!"
Ash, Aubreck responds "Well thank you, Ush. That is very kind and I shall keep that in mind."
Ben, Aubreck responds "Eliander! You know what, the man must be busy as I haven't seen or heard from him since the day I asked him for help.*hiccup*Although I've been holed up here in the mansion with those bottles of shine so he could very well be looking for me."
"I mean if you're headed that way, you could mention that I'm headed to Waterdeep?!"
(he really wants to leave ASAP.)
Lastly, he says "VERTHEG! go get that spare key we have in the study." The half orc returns with the key and gives it to Aubreck who then gives it to Ben.
"After everything, what's not to trust? Here, Ben. Please lock up when you're done. Perhaps I'll end up fixing this place up and staying here after all."and he winks at Korrik.
"Anyhow, I shall be back in a weeks' time! Perhaps we shall discuss matters more at that time. Thank you once again, everyone. VERTHEG! TO THE DOCKS!"
I'll let you respond to that then push it forward!
Just bringing this here
(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. 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.)
Also:
Inn >> Council >> Sell PPE skins >> Get rocks identified >> Find travel (boat) >> Load boat >> Lizardfolk >> and back
Korrik, when Ess eventually hears about the rings, he says "dude... that's deep. Man I wish I would've known but I totally get why you didn't say anything. Dude don't worry about it we all made it out safe right bro! If you ever need to talk my homie just let me know. I'm feeling better now so yeah bro, if you need someone to talk to don't be shy ok my bro??"
((thank you all for the level up's! Cool RP!!))
Ess manages to get rid of the sea sickness and one night in the cabin he says "He guys, look how many pushups I can do now!" and he tries to break a record for the number of pushups he can do.
He breaks his record, and he feels stronger because of it. That night he gets an extra long restful sleep. (HP +7 bump plus extra attack!)
Ben and Korrik, Krell explains that he is a 'druid' but he cannot change shape. Given the charm person and whatnot, I think he'd eventually tell you everything about himself. "HUH. You not remember Krell? You have short memory. Yes, Krell study strong magics."
https://www.dndbeyond.com/monsters/krell-grohlg
Ben, after you tell the captain about Krell and his magic, the captain almost insists that Krell is killed. "AYE! We toss him overboard once the deed is done. ye want to beat him up, go for it. Matters not to me. As long as he's not brought back to land I'm good with whatever ye want to do. I'd rather not waste a hand guarding him either."
Ben, Krell would've said about the cocoons "HA! No one come. Krell needed sacrifices. Krell sacrifice spidermen for queen."
Ash, Krell would indeed know what the items in that box were. It was his box, after all. "HAH! Yes Krell keep items in box. Krell's trinkets GAAAAH."
Scrolls
gust of wind
protection from poison
Potions
potion of heroism,
potion of water breathing,
Cloak
cloak of protection
Regarding Aubreck, Ess would've said "Open it! Open it! Open it!"
Then he gets serious, more serious that you've seen him.
"Dudes. Look at what we just did. That was more intense than anything we've done yet by a longshot. Bros my vote is that we open the damn thing. We deserve to know."
As the discussion continued, he'd eventually see it your way and agree with the plan, but let it be known that he wanted to open it and if anyone also wanted to in that moment we can retro.
Ess eventually fist bumps for the plan. "Dudes, if this guy is legit we're gonna have a ton of coin. Yeah I wonder how he's doin on the weapons?"
Ben, great discussion with the captain because if that prep wasn't done, Krell would've raised hell with his thunderwave magic in the brig.
Ok so if there are no objections, Krell is killed by the dwarves (or one of you want to kill him?? lol) and dumped in the sea on the trip back. He's evil to the core and he would've started to act aggressively after the charm person magic wore off. He would be screaming that he will be more than happy to die in Lolth's honor. The dwarves would've made that executive decision to kill him if none of you did. For the safety of the crew and ship.
Let me know if I missed something.
Prisoners returned + 16 / 07:00AM / Marshswamp Docks
I assume you will be returning to Aubreck immediately upon return? Or, to the Snapping Line Inn? Or somewhere else? It is 7am, overcast. The usual scene back in the Marshswamp docks. Busy as heck, people bustling everywhere and a few ships also coming and going.
((Korrik would assist in disposing of Krell if needed.))
"I don't think the cloak helps me, I've already got a ring that does much the same. Ess's got good armor, and Ash is hard to pin down, so maybe best for Ben to take it? Or it makes Ess or Ash even more protected?"
When everyone lines up to disembark, when the party finally makes it off the ship, they find Korrik waiting in an alley for them.
"No more waiting in lines if I can help it!"
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 would have shrugged to the Captain's suggestion,
"Killing him is easier, he is guilty of murdering the crew of the Widow. If you don't have any issue with it I certainly don't."
---
He watches Ess do pushups because he has nothing else to do. He'll even clap a rhythm to help he is so bored.
"Wooo."
---
To Ess opening up the box,
"We're going to see, we just need to have patience. Bro."
---
At the dock he'll thank the captain and the crew for their fine sailing.
"I will spread the word about the quality of the Winter's crew and capabilities."
To the rest,
"Let's go see Aubreck."
((Okay, so Aubreck is clean on his sending us there.))
Korrik shivers as he considers how he likely would have cut the bundles loose if he'd have had time.
"To Aubreck then."
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
Korrik, the dwarves would take you up on your offer to help dispose of Krell. No one else in the party offers to help, and so this all happens when the others are down in the cabin.
Korrik:
Krell would be blindfolded, bound and gagged and walked over to the side of the ship by two of the strongest looking dwarves that you've seen on this ship. Just built like tanks.
Krell already looks really bad considering what he's been through. The dwarves are holding him, so you'd have advantage on any attack that you might want to do as a kill before he's pushed into the sea.
Korrik, you'd notice that the wind has picked up a bit as you walk out with the dwarves and Krell. You can hear it whistling a bit, too. In a way that you've never quite heard before. Even the wind, it feels... different.
Please explain in detail the attack and then roll for it.
Prisoners returned + 16 / 07:00AM / Marshswamp Dock
((very cool about the shadow teleportation for the lines haha, I can't wait to see that in combat.))
Ess kisses the ground once you all depart the Soul of Winter. "Duuuuudes! We made it bros!!" and he turns away trying to hide the fact that he's crying a little again. Once he clears himself up, he says "Bros, after we hit up Aubreck, let's go to the Line and grab some food bros. I can't WAIT to eat some real food my bros! I am one damn hungry homeboy let me tell ya."
Prisoners returned + 16 / 07:30AM / Aubreck's mansion
I am assuming you all just go and knock on his door, if it's something different please let me know.
You're greeted by Vertheg who looks like he just woke up but then his eyes open in excitement as he remembers you and starts to yell for Aubreck. "BOSS!! WAKE UP! THEY BACK! THEY BACK!"
A few minutes later, you see Aubreck in a dirty old robe come out, eyes squinting from the emerging daylight and then he sees all of you.
"AH! BEN! All of you! You are back! By the gods I thought you all were done for! *ahem* but I am very deeply happy to see you all alive! How... how did it go?" he looks at you in a hopeful way but he is anticipating hearing a mouthful given how you all look after the 7 days of travel.
Ess starts to say something and then stops himself and waits for Ben.
He knows better by now.
You can see that Aubreck is anxiously and awkwardly looking for the box as well as he gets used to being awake for the first time today.
You'd smell booze on him, too given the passive perceptions.
Over to you.
Korrik will have them affix a weight to Krell, then grimly nods to the dwarves before inflicting a series of sharp blows to Krell's throat and torso. The blows are light, a jab of the finger here, a rap of a knuckle there, intended to stun, rather than harm. Once Krell is gasping and unable to draw breath, the halfling nods to the two dwarves to chuck him over where he rapidly vanishes under the waves. When the interruption to the half-orc's ki fades, and he's able to draw a breath, seawater floods his lungs and he rapidly drowns.
13
26
20
26
Will spend a ki on each hit until he fails a DC 13 CON Save vs stunning strike. Once he fails, he's stunned.
"Aren't you going to invite us in for some tea or coffee? Then Ben can tell you the whole story in comfort. He tells tales much better when his throat has been properly wet."
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
Ash would have offered to assist killing Krell if no one else had. It would have been bloodier… But when Korrik offers, she knows that’s the right move. She leaves it to him, and doesn’t interfere. She stays in the cabin, thinking the deed might at least go some little way towards closure for Korrik. She knows it won’t really… but she gives him that moment nonetheless.
Aside from that, Ash is quiet for the trip back. She’s desperate to be back on land. And she worries about the ocean-battle they’ve signed themselves up for. She will need magic to survive that. The thought of relying on magic, relying on anything other than her instinct and reflexes, isn’t in her nature.
She remains businesslike all the way up to Albreck’s place. The job not done until money’s changed hands. She leaves the initial negotiations, and telling their tale, to their expert…
She hopes they won’t need to call on HER expertise for this part… but she’s ready if they do.
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
"Good morning Aubreck, we're back. A tea would be lovely, mint if you have it. Yes, we're back and glad to have made it back. I must caution you that we bring both good and bad tidings."
He'll let that settle for dramatic effect and to let Vertheg take the coffee and tea orders and leave.
"We found the Widow, still afloat - if only just. There was no sign of the crew and it had been clearly ravaged by some beast and blood stained the deck."
He looks Aubreck in the eyes before continuing,
"Once we explored more we found the vessel infested with spiders. Spiders of all sizes, along with horrid purple spider monstrosities. We defeated some and found a clue to the fate of your crew."
He nods for Kay to hand Aubreck the ship's log and to read it before continuing.
"We descended into the bowels of the ship into the hold where we found it filled with water...and undead creatures. Kay and Ash secured your box as quickly as they could and began to flee from those... abominations. And that, Aubreck, is when things got honestly and truly horrific."
His gaze passes over his fellows as he continues,
"For then, yes at the very moment we touched that box, a giant octopus the size of a hill began an assault on the Widow. We only just were able to cast ourselves from the Widow before it was dragged to a watery, final end. As luck would have it a foul druid of the Spider Queen dwelling on the boat escaped as well and we interrogated him before dispatching him."
He'll explain briefly about the Lolth cult.
"The Winter and it's crew are to be commended for remaining to gather us and not simply fleeing at the sight."
He ends the story there and sips his tea before pretending to remember something and reaching down to the bag of holding and pulling out Aubreck's box. He doesn't hand it over, keeping a hand on it as he asks,
"What's in the box that's so valuable? It would be a shame to have gone through all that for nothing! It is obscenely heavy."
Then, again as if an after thought,
"Oh, and how did your acquisitions of the items on our list go? I would love to be able to pay you that promised bonus."
He sniffs the linger scent of alcohol in the air,
"If everything has gone, and will go, well, we had discussed offering you a key, lucrative position in upcoming partnership."
He smiles and lets Aubreck answer.
((If Ben's 20 floor for persuasion doesn't get Aubreck to tell, and preferably show them the contents of the box he'll hit him with,
"Have you been drinking?"
Mildly accusingly (-5 on his wisdom save DC 15 for the suggestion spell that he rolls into as,
"Don't you think you should at least open the box immediately to make sure the contents are okay? And since you're checking you might as well tell us about it!"))
Korrik, all of your delicate yet sharp and stunning blows all easily hit the restrained half orc who the dwarves have also tied a weight to. It's an old anchor, probably much heavier than what is going to be needed to sink Krell, but they needed to get rid of it and so they decide to use it.
After the second strike, Krell becomes stunned and gasping for air, the dwarves nod back at you and then dump Krell and the anchor into the sea. It takes 2 dwarves to lift and dump the anchor and another 2 to dump Krell! "Be gone with ye, dirty scum." one of the dwarves mumble as he wipes his hands and walks off back to the underdeck.
Korrik:
All of the dwarves eventually leave as well, and then Korrik for a moment you are alone on the deck. It is windier than before Krell was dumped and you see numerous small water/mist tornadoes emerge from the tops of some of the waves. It's quite fascinating. However, one of them in particular is a lot bigger than the others, and it seems to have smaller funnels also branching out from each side of the main swirling air/water tube. You squint at it, and notice they look more like arms than funnels. Wait, does the top of it have a head? And then in that moment it elevates from the wave and swirls upwards, vanishing as it gets 15-20 feet up.
Korrik, Aubreck responds "*ahem* yes yes please excuse me Korrik, I've just woken and haven't had my morning coffee yet. VERTHEG! COFFEE!" and then Aubreck does indeed welcome you in and you all sit in his foyer and the discussion begins with Ben leading the way.
"Tea? Yes, we've tea, but not mint. VERTHEG! THE TEA, TOO! *ahem* yes, anyhow, it is great to see you all again. To be honest I thought you were all dead. I mean it has been 14 days since you left!"
"you.. you found the Widow?! By the gods! Spiders? MONSTERS? Wait what about the crew?" and then he takes and reads the logs. He takes a deep sigh. he looks genuinely sad. "I mean, what else did I expect really." he returns the look in your eyes "Ben, thank you for this log."
"Oh my lord you FOUND MY BOX!?" he looks ecstatic and then he listens on as you tell him about the giant octopus. His excitement quickly turns to concern and then he stops looking at you in the eye. "Oh... my word. This must've been unimaginable."
"Spider Queen? Wow... this is all so much. Ben, Korrik, Ess and... er.. Ush was it? Listen I don't know what to say other than to give you my immense thanks. This is more than I would've ever imagined and I truly would not have asked you or anyone else for that matter to try and go through what you all did for me."
Ben then gets the box out and Aubreck continues to respond. The 20 floor along with the actual returning of the box is enough for Aubreck to tell what is in the box, but he doesn't open it without the suggestion spell. He failed that save, so he basically tells you everything!
Aubreck starts to tear up. "Yes. YES I have been drinking Ben. Like I said, I thought you, all of you were done for. I thought my life was done for. My entire life savings are in that box, Ben."
He proceeds to open up about a few things to explain what exactly is in the box. ((there's a bit of repeat but a good refresher))
Aubreck Drallion once counted himself among the richest folk of his city. His trade fleet was one of the largest and most prosperous of its kind, with hundreds of ships under his banner dodging storms, pirate raids, and aquatic monsters to carry goods across the world.
Yet Aubreck’s success perhaps came too fast and too easily; although his profits eventually stabilized, his ambition kept expanding. Years ago, his contacts in Chult reported that he could monopolize trade in rare spices and herbs by making heavy investments in the area. Aubreck took the opportunity as a sure thing and leaped at the chance to get even richer. He sold off many of his assets and converted the proceeds to property deeds and promissory notes, then secured that portable wealth aboard the Widow, the foremost ship in his fleet.
Aubreck’s plan was to convert these notes back into cash when the ship reached its destination in the south, but fate introduced a cruel twist, and the Widow disappeared. A storm separated the ship from its escort, and it was never heard from again. Aubreck was devastated by the financial loss.
If you recall, the deeds and notes total 100,000 gp. His initial odder to you was 10%, and that was bumped to 25%.
Ben, you pull out the box and see once again that it's made of shiny blue metal.
Aubreck eyes it. "YES! That's it! Yes Ben, I will show you what's inside. Please hold it on your lap. It's heavy because it's magical."
And Aubreck says the word "Tildivarias" and you hear a *click*. "Ok Ben, go ahead and open it."
Ben, the box opens when you try.
Inside, you all see Aubreck’s deeds and promissory notes like he explained, still sealed in waterproof wrappings.
Aubreck says "YES! I can't believe this. I am BACK BABY!"
He would explain that those notes are drawn from a lawful good temple in Waterdeep where he bought the Widow from Trestan that will pay them out only after the original owner of the assets gives permission.
"VERTHEG! WE BACK BABY! Prepare our things, we're taking a trip South!"
((it's a little under 300 miles FYI))
"Um, could... could I have the documents, Ben?"
"Ben, Korrik, Ess and Ush, I shall pay you your reward upon my return to Marshswamp. Did you have a preferred method of payment? 25,000gp is a lot of coin! Or, perhaps you all want to accompany me to Waterdeep and we can decide on the way? I could use the protection! HA!"
Vertheg grunts.
Lastly, Aubreck responds to the arms order.
"Ben... I did it. You see, Vertheg has quite the past. And without getting into details, he was able to help me acquire the entire lot on your list. It's all downstairs in the cellar. I was going to get him to sell it back next week as I was afraid you were not coming back."
"But yes Ben, I have it all. VERTHEG! Show Ben the order downstairs."
Ben, the half orc butler would take you down there and you'd see everything is there.
Aubreck doesn't even mention asking about his 300gp bonus for getting the full order. He's so focused on having his deeds back.
OK what is next? I can lay out some of the pending stuff although I think it's all in our Marshswamp quests tab. Will you now to the town council and see Eliander and the other council members? Or maybe to the Snapping Line Inn? Ben maybe Hanna is back? Or perhaps something else in town? Maybe bring the weapons to the Lizardfolk Queen Othokent? Or a Waterdeep trip?
Let me know if I missed anything. Over to you!
Ben is very pleased to hear the order was filled in full.
"Excellent, excellent!"
If the 300 gold isn't mentioned he won't remind Aubreck.
He examines the contents of the box before shifting it to a table for the others to check. His eye twitches faintly at the mention of going to Waterdeep.
"While we could head south with you we have outstanding obligations here that would make that kind of trip difficult to take, or at least immediately. I suspect you're interested in going today?"
He drums his fingers on the box thoughtfully but doesn't hand it over to Aubreck, though it is close enough for him to grab it if he wants.
"Not to say we don't trust you, but I am concerned you will be tempted to head south and keep going that direction. You likely don't need to cash out the full hundred thousand at once? Would you be amenable to leaving 25,000 of the notes here with us and when you get back with our payment we'll do a hand-off? Anything happens to the documents we are holding, no trade, so you're out nothing but an extra trip. Oh, and I think we're happy with gem equivalents of the money, or as much as possible and platinum."
He checks with the others.
"Unless we want to request items?"
((Let me know if the 20 floor don't cut it.))
"We are besides interested in providing you a business opportunity in town. Do you (what's his name?). Kay, if you wouldn't mind laying out our thoughts."
Ben would have Ess and Ash check the weapons so Aubreck isn't alone with the box.
---
((Ben would like to get the lizardfolk folk their weapons and the rest of that money but breakfast at the Line and checking on Hanna would be in order. After that a talk with the council and boat ride today so we can get back and do other things without a deadline hanging over our heads?))
"Ahem. Am I correct in assuming you have a competitive relationship with the other business folk in town? Marshswamp, by all accounts is an up and coming town, do you see yourself staying a player in this scene, or are you looking to relocate to the south?"
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
Ash is delighted with how all of this goes down. And she doesn’t mind ‘Ush’ in the slightest. She thinks it’s kind of cute.
She was about to suggest that the party held on to their share of the papers until Aubreck returned, but Ben already had that angle covered.
She would check on the weapons order: meticulously checking and counting each item, to be sure they have it spot on.
And she’s totally up for the plan of: Inn >> Council >> boat >> Lizardfolk >> and back (within the day?). (Or any variation on that theme). That way, she can close enough of the cases in her mind to rest easy tonight.
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
Prisoners returned + 16 / 08:00AM / Aubreck's mansion
Ben, Aubreck will indeed not mention the 300gp bonus. Honestly, his mind is elsewhere and he simply doesn't remember the bonus.
He responds "Yes, today. I would like to leave right after this conversation actually. I... I just am so excited to get my life back on track and I have all of you to thank." he has a tear again.
Ben, Aubreck would slowly reach out and take the box if you'd let him. He'd say "Ben, Korrik, Ess, Ush. After what you've all explained to me about what you've done to retrieve this box for me, I wouldn't think twice about crossing you. This will be an extra trip for me though... hmmm...."
(The floor 20 is fine for that particular request.)
"Yes. Fine. You can keep 25,000 of the notes, and I shall cash the rest, return here with your funds and then we can make the final exchange. Gem equivalents? Right. Vertheg can handle the changing of the money for us. We will do what we can for you. I'm not keen on carrying bags and bags of coins either so yes I will do what I can."
He responds to Ben and Korrik "Business opportunity you say? To be honest, I came here because it was the cheapest spot I could find that was still half decent. I haven't been doing any business here as I've had no capital to do so. However, with my capital back in action I am planning on returning to Waterdeep to reestablish myself."
"I mean, sure this place might be *ahem* up and coming... but it's no Waterdeep." he kind of looks down on Marshswamp now that he's back in the money.
Fleeting loyalty to the town!
((If you were to try and persuade him to stay in Marshswamp for the time being to set up shop here, it will require a higher roll than the floor of 20, for sure. He had no intention of staying here whatsoever and has bigger plans elsewhere.))
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. 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 7 days.
Ok, please confirm about Aubreck and if you want to continue with the discussions about him staying in Marshswamp. Roll if necessary as well.
And then I will process this:
Inn >> Council >> Sell PPE skins >> Get rocks identified >> Find travel (boat) >> Load boat >> Lizardfolk >> and back (within the day?)
((Yes, you could get back within the same day.))
Over to you!
Ben go through the box and pull out 25k worth of notes and place them, carefully, in the bag of holding.
He'll look up from that once its down and slide the box over to Aubreck to cuddle with. He understands.
He checks with Kay if he should give Aubreck a nudge, if he Kay gives him a nod or a sign, he'll turn to Aubreck while absently holding an eagle feather (enhance ability),
"I fully agree this is no Waterdeep but, like with this Chult place you were talking about, the places to make money are always going to be those that are up and coming. You can return to Waterdeep and fight tooth and nail to keep what you have or take another, smaller risk here. It is your call."
Persuasion: 30
((If Kay shrugs or doesn't care Ben is happy to call it a closed deal and head on.))
Korrik grins, meeting Ben's eyes and giving the barest shrug before he stands up to shake Aubreck's hand. "We wish you all the best in getting set up in Waterdeep, and look forward to your return. As Ben says, there are likely lots of opportunities for a fellow with the right nose for them... Especially if he had some associates to tell him where to sniff... but I understand the draw of big city life, I've felt that pull myself. If you feel you're better positioned to take up trade in Waterdeep, I'm sure you know best. I'm sure the contacts you must have been in correspondence with in the city will help get you set up in no time."
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
Ash gives Aubreck a deep curtsy-bow and wishes him well, “And if you ever need assistance with something that no one else can set right, you know who to ask for“. She gives him a big slow cat’s blink with a toothy Cheshire Cat grin.
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
Ben rises and offers his hand to Aubreck,
"Safe travels, see you soon again. Should I let Eliander know you're leaving? Oh, and can we get a key to the house to get the weapons and armor in case you're gone before we have a moment to collect it? Shouldn't take more than a couple of hours, but I understand you're in a rush."
He gives Ash a glance and wink adding,
"Or we can let ourselves in and lock up behind? Your preference."
At Ben’s comment, Ash’s grin gets wider, if that’s even possible.
She can hardly believe they have a promise of 25,000gp from a thankful ally, and ALL the weapons and supplies for the Lizardfolk.
This is why she does what she does, for the moments when things seem to be coming up roses! The trauma of the boats is slowly fading, and her time held at the pleasure of the city of Neverwinter is gradually becoming a distant memory!
Some of the sentiment of this, would be visible in her grin.
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
Prisoners returned + 16 / 08:30AM / Aubreck's mansion
Ben, Aubreck ponders what you tell him. Probably for an awkwardly long time.
Then Korrik jumps in and again Aubreck thinks more about it and after probably longer than it should've taken (his mind is preoccupied with getting his documents cashed!!) he says "Hmm... Ben, you make an interesting point. You'll have to excuse me. I've been out of the 'game' so to speak ever since I lost everything. Now that you all have helped me I will be able to get back on my feet and make sound business decisions."
He rubs his chin.
"Perhaps like the one you're suggesting right now."
He looks at Korrik and tilts his head a bit and responds a bit quieter than he was just talking, but loud enough for everyone to still hear "and by chance would you know where to sniff around here, lad?" and he smiles at you.
Then he jokes "Hopefully not down at the docks - it reeks of dead fish!"
Ash, Aubreck responds "Well thank you, Ush. That is very kind and I shall keep that in mind."
Ben, Aubreck responds "Eliander! You know what, the man must be busy as I haven't seen or heard from him since the day I asked him for help. *hiccup* Although I've been holed up here in the mansion with those bottles of shine so he could very well be looking for me."
"I mean if you're headed that way, you could mention that I'm headed to Waterdeep?!"
(he really wants to leave ASAP.)
Lastly, he says "VERTHEG! go get that spare key we have in the study." The half orc returns with the key and gives it to Aubreck who then gives it to Ben.
"After everything, what's not to trust? Here, Ben. Please lock up when you're done. Perhaps I'll end up fixing this place up and staying here after all." and he winks at Korrik.
"Anyhow, I shall be back in a weeks' time! Perhaps we shall discuss matters more at that time. Thank you once again, everyone. VERTHEG! TO THE DOCKS!"
I'll let you respond to that then push it forward!
Just bringing this here
(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. 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.)
Also:
Inn >> Council >> Sell PPE skins >> Get rocks identified >> Find travel (boat) >> Load boat >> Lizardfolk >> and back