The affluent, isolated archipelago of Nedroatan has known to be a politically fragmented, yet economically successful, collection of states and uncharted jungle and badlands. This was until recently, the dukes and duchesses of neighboring city states have come together to form a council of some of the greatest political minds they could find - a united front of countries combined into a nation - now aptly named the Unitary States of Nedroatan. As such, a large priority of the newly formed 'Nedroatani Council' has been to colonize the uncharted lands within their borders. One of these sparsely populated areas is known as the Ember Plateau, a geographical landmark of rolling hills, dense forests, and hostile monsters galore. It has recently been a hotbed of Nedroatani activity, as settlers are working tirelessly to gain a foothold in the region. As of late, however, they have been facing increased opposition from the native fauna and druidic circles...
That's where the party comes in. In charge of the Ember Plateau settling initiative is a relatively unknown Baron by the name of Lord Saltonstall, whom has taken up residence in the town of Olmkirk, in a grand manor titled 'Saltonstall Hall'. The man, and especially his methods, have been described as clandestine and unrelentingly strict, yet invariably rewarding to those who fulfill his will. Now, a group of four adventurers have been contracted and invited to a secretive private dinner at the coveted Saltonstall Hall, where they will discuss the problems being faced in the Ember Plateau region, and the machinations of the elusive druid 'Bisolta'...
General Information
-This is my first time running a PbP game, and as such will likely be. . . interesting. Therefore, I've come up with an adventure made for a smaller party of only four.
-PM me information about your character using this format:
Character Name:
Race:
Class:
Alignment:
Brief Backstory:
Then, I will provide a campaign link for you to put your characters into. If you think something about your character might require DM approval, just include it in your PM. I'm open to almost anything.
-Post consistency generally isn't a concern for me. In extreme cases, I'll contact the player and work something out from there.
-DO NOT, I REPEAT, DO NOT POST UNTIL I HAVE SEEN YOUR CHARACTER AND GIVEN YOU THE CAMPAIGN LINK.
-A starter post will go up once each space has been filled. Then, everybody will be free to establish their beginning posts.
-Act as you think your character would. I want my DMing style to be as least restrictive as it can.
-The party has been together for a few days at the starting point, and as such, are one a more 'name by name basis', though major character threads are mostly still mutually ambiguous.
Player Slots
1. Goodrail (Inssol)
2. RagnarRagnarsson (Reghetyr)
3. Sarcasticfury (Vesper)
4. SteveThaiBinh (Oben Thomason)
(Hopefully this will go well. If you have any comments, feedback, or corrections, PM me.)
APPLICATIONS HAVE CONCLUDED, AND OUR FOUR CHARACTERS HAVE BEEN SELECTED! Starter post incoming sooner or later, just give me some time to look over all the character applications again and send out the campaign links. Post should be up by tomorrow morning, EST time.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
CHARACTERS
Bakreag Ingotheart [Lvl. 1] Mountain Dwarf Paladin [Out of The Abyss PbP]
In the inky black shroud of darkness worn by the streets of Olmkirk, a guard detail of three heavily armed men silently escorts your party of four to Saltonstall Hall, the incredulously grand manor that watches over the frontier town. During the day, the streets are alive with motion and activity, yet once night falls, the cobblestone roads are nearly empty - save for the occasional drunkard or thief. Now, surrounded by the knights, the lack of noise is almost eerie - the hoot of an owl; gusts of wind racing among the branches are the only sounds that pierce the silence. After several minutes of travel, the path widens into a semi - circle like radius of decorated breccia and other stones. Extended up an incline is a flight of cement stairs, which finally lead to Saltonstall Hall. The woodwork, the windowpanes, and nearly every detail about the house is even more striking up close. Breaking into single file formation, you are led up to a landing at the top of the hill. The guards take a breather, their visors obscuring any notable facial features. One of them, apparently the captain of the Olmkirk City Watch, turns to you abruptly.
"My men will take up their positions outside of the mansion once again. When you enter the house, be dead silent. I will lead you to the dining room. There, you will be seated and dine with Baron Saltonstall. What is discussed their is not under my jurisdiction, nor is it my concern. I will give you further instructions once the meeting has concluded." With this, the two other guards resume their regular posts. The Captain waves you onwards.
Approaching Saltonstall Hall, you are engulfed in nearly blinding waves of torchlight. Once adjusted, you enter through the high doors, into a long entrance halls with doors lined about the sides of the corridor. Through here is a lavish foyer, with two sets of stairs winding upwards to several other passageways. You are led up the stairs, and past several servants who are currently occupying themselves cleaning the sofas and tables that were likely subject to rounds of drink and chatter during the course of the day. The party is led through another set of winding halls and rooms, before finally reaching a set of two gold handled doors, both opened wide. Above the threshold is noticeably the Saltonstall crest, an eagle amidst a burst of flame.
Inside is a large room with an emerald rug sprawled out on the floor. In the center of the room, upon this rug, is a long, rectangular dining table completely outfitted with fine china and other ornate pleasantries. At the opposite head of the table, is Lord Saltonstall. He can best be described as a striking, orderly man - his dark brown hair winds to a perfect curl at the bottom of his neck, and an immaculately trimmed mustache sits just below his nose. The Baron wears an equally impressive suit, and with some perceptive ability, one can even see the outline of a dagger beneath his belt. Even his silverware is organized - arrayed with unflinching perfection, like a sort of rich man's arithmetic.
The Baron smiles, and motions for the group to take a seat at the four dining chairs placed on the flanks of the table - two on the right, two on the left.
The doors are shut, and the Captain exits the room with an audible shifting of his metal armor.
"Our meeting has begun, I see."
[NOTE: YOU ARE NOW FREE TO MAKE YOUR INTRODUCTORY POSTS. I WILL LIKELY NOT BE ABLE TO POST UNTIL TOMORROW MORNING, HOWEVER, WHERE THE CAMPAIGN WILL TRULY BEGIN.]
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
CHARACTERS
Bakreag Ingotheart [Lvl. 1] Mountain Dwarf Paladin [Out of The Abyss PbP]
Indeed, says Oben, and thank you for your kind invitation, Baron.He gives the slightest of bows to the man, and then takes the chair on the right furthest from the man.
Oben Thomason is a young man of medium height, wearing dark brown leather armour that looks somewhat new and well maintained. He carries a shorts sword on his belt, and a shortbow strung over his shoulder - he rests the weapon against his chair. He sits down and leans back, slouching just enough to be out-of-keeping with the Baron's orderliness, but not enough (he hopes) to provoke a reaction. He has been friendly and talkative for the short time the rest of the group have known him, though he seems a little awkward at this moment, surrounded by such wealth. Your home is very impressive.
"Quite impressive, yes!" Inssol will shout, having, notably, kept his mouth shut the entire journey that was traversing this mansion. He just couldn't hold it in anymore. He takes a chair on the left closest to the Baron. "You are a man of extreme, exquisite taste! I can respect that! However, all the details are beginning to hurt my eyes!"
Inssol is a gnome of 3 1/2 feet in height, noted by the fact that he may need to stand on his chair. Though in case he'd get it dirty, he wears a light blue robe that drapes behind him and would stand on it. His face cannot be seen, for he wears a porcelain mask with two holes cut out so he could see out of it. Sitting against his chair is a katana(longsword) about two feet taller than he is.
"My sssweet baron, thanks for your graciousss invitation" says Reghetyr as he takes the chair closest to the baron, on the right, next to Oben. "Looking forward to hearing what your ssservant Reghetyr can do fo you."
At 7 feet tall and 260 pounds, Reghetyr is larger than your average Dragonborn. With a scar crossing his left eye, and a crooked smile, he sports leather armor and carries a quarterstaff. And with some perceptive ability, one can even see the outline of two daggers beneath his belt. He has been rather pleasant with the other members of the cadre, listening to what they have to say, and trying to engage in friendly conversation. An out-of-the-ordinary feature that some of you may have noticed is how Reghetyr appears to be talking with someone, usually at night, even though you know he's probably alone.
The Baron takes a moment to welcome you all, distributing somewhat curt greetings while maintaining a polite smile. He nods humbly to the compliments of his abode, and when his eyes glance over Oben, an insightful person could detect a hint of annoyance at the irreverence of his posture. Regardless, Saltonstall continues: "Apologies for the ominous circumstance of our meeting, my friends. But there is no time for such salutations and goodbyes, I am afraid, as we have much to discuss and not much time. Please, make yourself comfortable as dinner is served." As Lord Saltonstall says this, he leans backwards in his velvet cushioned chair, and looking towards a door positioned on the far left side of the room, claps his hands above his head twice, rather loudly. In response to this, a clatter can be heard from the opposite side of the door, before about four servants come forth towards the table - bearing fine silverware and food. Each plate is adorned with a glistening slab of meat, assortments of vegetables and potatoes. The final orderly serves glasses of sweet smelling red wine to each of the guests, and Saltonstall himself, of course. This happens in a matter of seconds, as the dexterous, practiced hands of the servants complete their duty. Following this, they disappear back into the kitchen.
"Now. I am sure you are all aware of the situation within the Ember Plateau. With the formation of our glorious Nedroatani State, we have begun settling efforts within the region - however, druids and native monstrosities have rendered some areas too dangerous to even step foot in. Even setting asides the savage tribes within the region, there is little our citizens can do to protect themselves. Our military are occupied in the South, bravely battling back the Dwarven invaders - and so the Council has set me as Baron of The Ember Plateau, to take control of what is quite frankly a mess of an operation. I have made the decision to contract mercenaries and adventurers to help dispel the threat - after all, the State has plenty of wealth to support this." Saltonstall momentarily pauses, chewing on a large bite of his Steak, and seemingly taking the time to more fully collect his thoughts.
"I do not have this meeting with all of the thieves and brigands who attempt to find work here. You four have been tasked with more. The leader of the Ember Plateau Druidic Circle - Bisolta, must be eliminated. He will put the entire length of the forest before him - but I see that as a chance for your loyalty to be tested and gain experience within the region. Remember, the area is nearly lawless, and you will have to survive off of the forest and your bare wits. I will send couriers of mine occasionally so we can. . . keep in touch. Are there any questions before I continue?" The Baron has been making somewhat odd hand gestures throughout the dinner, seemingly to reinforce his expository speech.
The Baron shifts somewhat uncomfortably in his seat as Reghetyr advances, and meets the grin of the Dragonborn with one of his own. "Ah, well, do not underestimate Bisolta. He is quite the man - if you attempted to attack him now, I have no doubt you would be killed . . . of course, you will learn the Ember Plateau and her inhabitants in time. We will not throw you straight to the man at once. And, sadly, due to the secrecy of the region, I have not been able to implant many associates within the Ember Plateau Druidic Circle. Bisolta is quite the elusive target. If you could capture him, then that could serve our purposes even more." He took a moment to look over the rest of the occupants at the table, and then took a drink from his wine goblet in anticipation for more interjections.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
CHARACTERS
Bakreag Ingotheart [Lvl. 1] Mountain Dwarf Paladin [Out of The Abyss PbP]
Also an Insight check to see if he notices that he's annoyed the Baron: 2
As you suggest, Baron, this is likely to take time and careful preparation. Is there a... time limit we are working towards? Oben helps himself to the food and wine.
Arcana: As Saltonstall finishes the first phase of his speech, you feel a sudden intense buzz flash through your head, like a brief migraine or headache. Before you can even react to the pain, however, it is gone. You can't exactly place your finger on the source of the sensation, and the exact machinations of it remain quite foreign to you.
Insight: The Baron doesn't seem to be affected or annoyed in any way.
The Baron considers your question momentarily, stroking the faint stubble of facial hair that winds about his chin. "I suppose completing the tasks in a timely fashion would be . . . desirable, however my staff currently does not see it as a glaring priority. Of course, this will be much more difficult for you than I. However, for your full payment, wealth, positions of power, and all the rest. . . that will require loyalty and relative efficiency. Any further questions before I continue?" Saltonstall inquired, waiting patiently for any other inquiries that may arise.
"I have no questions on the mission at hand! Though I am curious if I can cut my food with my blade!" Beams Inssol, holding his sheathed katana over his head.
The Baron shifts a perplexed stare over to you, and looks over the blade in vague curiosity. He chuckles politely. "No, I would prefer you to use the silverware, my good gnome. As it seems we have no questions remaining on this matter, I will continue..."
Lord Saltonstall proceeded to the last section of his speech: "Now, tomorrow, at sharply noon, you will return to Saltonstall Hall. There, you will be provided transportation to an outpost of mine within the Ember Plateau. That will serve as a sort of. . . hub for your travels. Proponents of mine will designate assignments there. The road to the plateau will likely take several hours, however I don't expect any complication with adventurers of your kind. I have already booked lodgings for you at a local inn, which you will return to subsequently following this meeting. Help yourself to the drink and entertainment there if you will, however I do not desire for any of you to present yourselves tomorrow with a hangover." He ceased talking, and returned to eating. Several moments pass. "And with that, I conclude my part in this discussion. Feel free to ask any questions. Finish your meal and leave whenever it suits you."
Arcana: You feel no noticeable sensation, though out of the corner of your eye catch Oben momentarily recoil, seemingly in shock.
EVERYONE
At about this time, the meal provided by Saltonstall (or more accurately, his workers) is beginning to wind down, and the atmosphere of the room clearly shifts to be expectant of your departure.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
"Thisss food wasss great your grace" says Reghetyr as he stands up. He tries to take a last look at the room (Perception check 14) trying to gauge the degree of the baron's wealth and power.
"Reghetyr will take his leave now and shall be here again tomorrow. Have the sweetest dreamsss" accompanied by another large grin, as he leaves the room.
There is the small matter of remuneration,notes Oben. Of course, service to the glorious future of Nedroatini is a fine reward in and of itself, I dare say, but a fellow has expenses you understand. And it's good to get these details cleared up in advance, so there's no misunderstanding later on. He looks at the Baron directly. How much for Bisolta's head, and how much for his capture?
Perception: Trying to accurately determine the wealth and reach of the Baron, it's very obvious he is firmly within the upper class of Nedroatan, judging from the ornamental decorations around the room, quality of the food, and number of servants he possesses. To your guess, he likely gained this position through a healthy mix of political connection, savvy business, and potential nepotism.
Saltonstall smiles, waving you farewell. "It was my pleasure. I'm sure your friends will be soon to accompany you outside. Remember, 12 o'clock sharp!"
Outside is the guard Captain, whom bids you no salutation as you exit and await the rest of the party.
The Baron seems to consider Oben's inquiry for several moments. "Of course, my fine man, payment for your service is in the work. I am still determining the exact payment with my superiors, however I promise you that there will be a monetary payment - as well as perhaps other dealings with the Nedroatani government. For the head of Bisolta, expect at least 300 gold pieces each. For his capture, well . . . that would certainly yield some consideration of reward. You would be doing such a service to our nation in that case." Saltonstall returned to his dinner, finishing it in several bites. "Yet, this all is assuming you prove yourself loyal to Nedroatan and her people..."
'DRUIDIC EMBERS'
[READ BEFORE POSTING]
Background
The affluent, isolated archipelago of Nedroatan has known to be a politically fragmented, yet economically successful, collection of states and uncharted jungle and badlands. This was until recently, the dukes and duchesses of neighboring city states have come together to form a council of some of the greatest political minds they could find - a united front of countries combined into a nation - now aptly named the Unitary States of Nedroatan. As such, a large priority of the newly formed 'Nedroatani Council' has been to colonize the uncharted lands within their borders. One of these sparsely populated areas is known as the Ember Plateau, a geographical landmark of rolling hills, dense forests, and hostile monsters galore. It has recently been a hotbed of Nedroatani activity, as settlers are working tirelessly to gain a foothold in the region. As of late, however, they have been facing increased opposition from the native fauna and druidic circles...
That's where the party comes in. In charge of the Ember Plateau settling initiative is a relatively unknown Baron by the name of Lord Saltonstall, whom has taken up residence in the town of Olmkirk, in a grand manor titled 'Saltonstall Hall'. The man, and especially his methods, have been described as clandestine and unrelentingly strict, yet invariably rewarding to those who fulfill his will. Now, a group of four adventurers have been contracted and invited to a secretive private dinner at the coveted Saltonstall Hall, where they will discuss the problems being faced in the Ember Plateau region, and the machinations of the elusive druid 'Bisolta'...
General Information
-This is my first time running a PbP game, and as such will likely be. . . interesting. Therefore, I've come up with an adventure made for a smaller party of only four.
-PM me information about your character using this format:
Character Name:
Race:
Class:
Alignment:
Brief Backstory:
Then, I will provide a campaign link for you to put your characters into. If you think something about your character might require DM approval, just include it in your PM. I'm open to almost anything.
-Post consistency generally isn't a concern for me. In extreme cases, I'll contact the player and work something out from there.
-DO NOT, I REPEAT, DO NOT POST UNTIL I HAVE SEEN YOUR CHARACTER AND GIVEN YOU THE CAMPAIGN LINK.
-A starter post will go up once each space has been filled. Then, everybody will be free to establish their beginning posts.
-Act as you think your character would. I want my DMing style to be as least restrictive as it can.
-The party has been together for a few days at the starting point, and as such, are one a more 'name by name basis', though major character threads are mostly still mutually ambiguous.
Player Slots
1. Goodrail (Inssol)
2. RagnarRagnarsson (Reghetyr)
3. Sarcasticfury (Vesper)
4. SteveThaiBinh (Oben Thomason)
(Hopefully this will go well. If you have any comments, feedback, or corrections, PM me.)
CHARACTERS
Bakreag Ingotheart [Lvl. 1] Mountain Dwarf Paladin [Out of The Abyss PbP]
Dungeon Master - [Druidic Embers PbP]
1 SLOT LEFT! Starter post incoming once we've secured the fourth!
CHARACTERS
Bakreag Ingotheart [Lvl. 1] Mountain Dwarf Paladin [Out of The Abyss PbP]
Dungeon Master - [Druidic Embers PbP]
APPLICATIONS HAVE CONCLUDED, AND OUR FOUR CHARACTERS HAVE BEEN SELECTED! Starter post incoming sooner or later, just give me some time to look over all the character applications again and send out the campaign links. Post should be up by tomorrow morning, EST time.
CHARACTERS
Bakreag Ingotheart [Lvl. 1] Mountain Dwarf Paladin [Out of The Abyss PbP]
Dungeon Master - [Druidic Embers PbP]
PROLOGUE - "SALTONSTALL HALL"
In the inky black shroud of darkness worn by the streets of Olmkirk, a guard detail of three heavily armed men silently escorts your party of four to Saltonstall Hall, the incredulously grand manor that watches over the frontier town. During the day, the streets are alive with motion and activity, yet once night falls, the cobblestone roads are nearly empty - save for the occasional drunkard or thief. Now, surrounded by the knights, the lack of noise is almost eerie - the hoot of an owl; gusts of wind racing among the branches are the only sounds that pierce the silence. After several minutes of travel, the path widens into a semi - circle like radius of decorated breccia and other stones. Extended up an incline is a flight of cement stairs, which finally lead to Saltonstall Hall. The woodwork, the windowpanes, and nearly every detail about the house is even more striking up close. Breaking into single file formation, you are led up to a landing at the top of the hill. The guards take a breather, their visors obscuring any notable facial features. One of them, apparently the captain of the Olmkirk City Watch, turns to you abruptly.
"My men will take up their positions outside of the mansion once again. When you enter the house, be dead silent. I will lead you to the dining room. There, you will be seated and dine with Baron Saltonstall. What is discussed their is not under my jurisdiction, nor is it my concern. I will give you further instructions once the meeting has concluded." With this, the two other guards resume their regular posts. The Captain waves you onwards.
Approaching Saltonstall Hall, you are engulfed in nearly blinding waves of torchlight. Once adjusted, you enter through the high doors, into a long entrance halls with doors lined about the sides of the corridor. Through here is a lavish foyer, with two sets of stairs winding upwards to several other passageways. You are led up the stairs, and past several servants who are currently occupying themselves cleaning the sofas and tables that were likely subject to rounds of drink and chatter during the course of the day. The party is led through another set of winding halls and rooms, before finally reaching a set of two gold handled doors, both opened wide. Above the threshold is noticeably the Saltonstall crest, an eagle amidst a burst of flame.
Inside is a large room with an emerald rug sprawled out on the floor. In the center of the room, upon this rug, is a long, rectangular dining table completely outfitted with fine china and other ornate pleasantries. At the opposite head of the table, is Lord Saltonstall. He can best be described as a striking, orderly man - his dark brown hair winds to a perfect curl at the bottom of his neck, and an immaculately trimmed mustache sits just below his nose. The Baron wears an equally impressive suit, and with some perceptive ability, one can even see the outline of a dagger beneath his belt. Even his silverware is organized - arrayed with unflinching perfection, like a sort of rich man's arithmetic.
The Baron smiles, and motions for the group to take a seat at the four dining chairs placed on the flanks of the table - two on the right, two on the left.
The doors are shut, and the Captain exits the room with an audible shifting of his metal armor.
"Our meeting has begun, I see."
[NOTE: YOU ARE NOW FREE TO MAKE YOUR INTRODUCTORY POSTS. I WILL LIKELY NOT BE ABLE TO POST UNTIL TOMORROW MORNING, HOWEVER, WHERE THE CAMPAIGN WILL TRULY BEGIN.]
CHARACTERS
Bakreag Ingotheart [Lvl. 1] Mountain Dwarf Paladin [Out of The Abyss PbP]
Dungeon Master - [Druidic Embers PbP]
Indeed, says Oben, and thank you for your kind invitation, Baron. He gives the slightest of bows to the man, and then takes the chair on the right furthest from the man.
Oben Thomason is a young man of medium height, wearing dark brown leather armour that looks somewhat new and well maintained. He carries a shorts sword on his belt, and a shortbow strung over his shoulder - he rests the weapon against his chair. He sits down and leans back, slouching just enough to be out-of-keeping with the Baron's orderliness, but not enough (he hopes) to provoke a reaction. He has been friendly and talkative for the short time the rest of the group have known him, though he seems a little awkward at this moment, surrounded by such wealth. Your home is very impressive.
"Quite impressive, yes!" Inssol will shout, having, notably, kept his mouth shut the entire journey that was traversing this mansion. He just couldn't hold it in anymore. He takes a chair on the left closest to the Baron. "You are a man of extreme, exquisite taste! I can respect that! However, all the details are beginning to hurt my eyes!"
Inssol is a gnome of 3 1/2 feet in height, noted by the fact that he may need to stand on his chair. Though in case he'd get it dirty, he wears a light blue robe that drapes behind him and would stand on it. His face cannot be seen, for he wears a porcelain mask with two holes cut out so he could see out of it. Sitting against his chair is a katana(longsword) about two feet taller than he is.
"My sssweet baron, thanks for your graciousss invitation" says Reghetyr as he takes the chair closest to the baron, on the right, next to Oben. "Looking forward to hearing what your ssservant Reghetyr can do fo you."
At 7 feet tall and 260 pounds, Reghetyr is larger than your average Dragonborn. With a scar crossing his left eye, and a crooked smile, he sports leather armor and carries a quarterstaff. And with some perceptive ability, one can even see the outline of two daggers beneath his belt. He has been rather pleasant with the other members of the cadre, listening to what they have to say, and trying to engage in friendly conversation. An out-of-the-ordinary feature that some of you may have noticed is how Reghetyr appears to be talking with someone, usually at night, even though you know he's probably alone.
PART I - "SALUTATIONS AND GOODBYES"
EVERYONE
The Baron takes a moment to welcome you all, distributing somewhat curt greetings while maintaining a polite smile. He nods humbly to the compliments of his abode, and when his eyes glance over Oben, an insightful person could detect a hint of annoyance at the irreverence of his posture. Regardless, Saltonstall continues: "Apologies for the ominous circumstance of our meeting, my friends. But there is no time for such salutations and goodbyes, I am afraid, as we have much to discuss and not much time. Please, make yourself comfortable as dinner is served." As Lord Saltonstall says this, he leans backwards in his velvet cushioned chair, and looking towards a door positioned on the far left side of the room, claps his hands above his head twice, rather loudly. In response to this, a clatter can be heard from the opposite side of the door, before about four servants come forth towards the table - bearing fine silverware and food. Each plate is adorned with a glistening slab of meat, assortments of vegetables and potatoes. The final orderly serves glasses of sweet smelling red wine to each of the guests, and Saltonstall himself, of course. This happens in a matter of seconds, as the dexterous, practiced hands of the servants complete their duty. Following this, they disappear back into the kitchen.
"Now. I am sure you are all aware of the situation within the Ember Plateau. With the formation of our glorious Nedroatani State, we have begun settling efforts within the region - however, druids and native monstrosities have rendered some areas too dangerous to even step foot in. Even setting asides the savage tribes within the region, there is little our citizens can do to protect themselves. Our military are occupied in the South, bravely battling back the Dwarven invaders - and so the Council has set me as Baron of The Ember Plateau, to take control of what is quite frankly a mess of an operation. I have made the decision to contract mercenaries and adventurers to help dispel the threat - after all, the State has plenty of wealth to support this." Saltonstall momentarily pauses, chewing on a large bite of his Steak, and seemingly taking the time to more fully collect his thoughts.
"I do not have this meeting with all of the thieves and brigands who attempt to find work here. You four have been tasked with more. The leader of the Ember Plateau Druidic Circle - Bisolta, must be eliminated. He will put the entire length of the forest before him - but I see that as a chance for your loyalty to be tested and gain experience within the region. Remember, the area is nearly lawless, and you will have to survive off of the forest and your bare wits. I will send couriers of mine occasionally so we can. . . keep in touch. Are there any questions before I continue?" The Baron has been making somewhat odd hand gestures throughout the dinner, seemingly to reinforce his expository speech.
[EVERYBODY, ROLL A DC 15 ARCANA CHECK]
CHARACTERS
Bakreag Ingotheart [Lvl. 1] Mountain Dwarf Paladin [Out of The Abyss PbP]
Dungeon Master - [Druidic Embers PbP]
"Aaah Bisssolta, yesss, he will be no match for Reghetyr, and his companionsss of course" and pulling a few inches closer to the baron:
"Presssumably, your mighty spies must know more about this character" with a large grin in his face.
Arcana check: 3
REGHETYR
The Baron shifts somewhat uncomfortably in his seat as Reghetyr advances, and meets the grin of the Dragonborn with one of his own. "Ah, well, do not underestimate Bisolta. He is quite the man - if you attempted to attack him now, I have no doubt you would be killed . . . of course, you will learn the Ember Plateau and her inhabitants in time. We will not throw you straight to the man at once. And, sadly, due to the secrecy of the region, I have not been able to implant many associates within the Ember Plateau Druidic Circle. Bisolta is quite the elusive target. If you could capture him, then that could serve our purposes even more." He took a moment to look over the rest of the occupants at the table, and then took a drink from his wine goblet in anticipation for more interjections.
CHARACTERS
Bakreag Ingotheart [Lvl. 1] Mountain Dwarf Paladin [Out of The Abyss PbP]
Dungeon Master - [Druidic Embers PbP]
Oben's Arcana check: 13
Also an Insight check to see if he notices that he's annoyed the Baron: 2
As you suggest, Baron, this is likely to take time and careful preparation. Is there a... time limit we are working towards? Oben helps himself to the food and wine.
OBEN
Arcana: As Saltonstall finishes the first phase of his speech, you feel a sudden intense buzz flash through your head, like a brief migraine or headache. Before you can even react to the pain, however, it is gone. You can't exactly place your finger on the source of the sensation, and the exact machinations of it remain quite foreign to you.
Insight: The Baron doesn't seem to be affected or annoyed in any way.
The Baron considers your question momentarily, stroking the faint stubble of facial hair that winds about his chin. "I suppose completing the tasks in a timely fashion would be . . . desirable, however my staff currently does not see it as a glaring priority. Of course, this will be much more difficult for you than I. However, for your full payment, wealth, positions of power, and all the rest. . . that will require loyalty and relative efficiency. Any further questions before I continue?" Saltonstall inquired, waiting patiently for any other inquiries that may arise.
CHARACTERS
Bakreag Ingotheart [Lvl. 1] Mountain Dwarf Paladin [Out of The Abyss PbP]
Dungeon Master - [Druidic Embers PbP]
"I have no questions on the mission at hand! Though I am curious if I can cut my food with my blade!" Beams Inssol, holding his sheathed katana over his head.
INSSOL
The Baron shifts a perplexed stare over to you, and looks over the blade in vague curiosity. He chuckles politely. "No, I would prefer you to use the silverware, my good gnome. As it seems we have no questions remaining on this matter, I will continue..."
CHARACTERS
Bakreag Ingotheart [Lvl. 1] Mountain Dwarf Paladin [Out of The Abyss PbP]
Dungeon Master - [Druidic Embers PbP]
EVERYONE
Lord Saltonstall proceeded to the last section of his speech: "Now, tomorrow, at sharply noon, you will return to Saltonstall Hall. There, you will be provided transportation to an outpost of mine within the Ember Plateau. That will serve as a sort of. . . hub for your travels. Proponents of mine will designate assignments there. The road to the plateau will likely take several hours, however I don't expect any complication with adventurers of your kind. I have already booked lodgings for you at a local inn, which you will return to subsequently following this meeting. Help yourself to the drink and entertainment there if you will, however I do not desire for any of you to present yourselves tomorrow with a hangover." He ceased talking, and returned to eating. Several moments pass. "And with that, I conclude my part in this discussion. Feel free to ask any questions. Finish your meal and leave whenever it suits you."
CHARACTERS
Bakreag Ingotheart [Lvl. 1] Mountain Dwarf Paladin [Out of The Abyss PbP]
Dungeon Master - [Druidic Embers PbP]
REGHETYR
Arcana: You feel no noticeable sensation, though out of the corner of your eye catch Oben momentarily recoil, seemingly in shock.
EVERYONE
At about this time, the meal provided by Saltonstall (or more accurately, his workers) is beginning to wind down, and the atmosphere of the room clearly shifts to be expectant of your departure.
CHARACTERS
Bakreag Ingotheart [Lvl. 1] Mountain Dwarf Paladin [Out of The Abyss PbP]
Dungeon Master - [Druidic Embers PbP]
"Thisss food wasss great your grace" says Reghetyr as he stands up. He tries to take a last look at the room (Perception check 14) trying to gauge the degree of the baron's wealth and power.
"Reghetyr will take his leave now and shall be here again tomorrow. Have the sweetest dreamsss" accompanied by another large grin, as he leaves the room.
There is the small matter of remuneration, notes Oben. Of course, service to the glorious future of Nedroatini is a fine reward in and of itself, I dare say, but a fellow has expenses you understand. And it's good to get these details cleared up in advance, so there's no misunderstanding later on. He looks at the Baron directly. How much for Bisolta's head, and how much for his capture?
REGHETYR
Perception: Trying to accurately determine the wealth and reach of the Baron, it's very obvious he is firmly within the upper class of Nedroatan, judging from the ornamental decorations around the room, quality of the food, and number of servants he possesses. To your guess, he likely gained this position through a healthy mix of political connection, savvy business, and potential nepotism.
Saltonstall smiles, waving you farewell. "It was my pleasure. I'm sure your friends will be soon to accompany you outside. Remember, 12 o'clock sharp!"
Outside is the guard Captain, whom bids you no salutation as you exit and await the rest of the party.
CHARACTERS
Bakreag Ingotheart [Lvl. 1] Mountain Dwarf Paladin [Out of The Abyss PbP]
Dungeon Master - [Druidic Embers PbP]
OBEN
The Baron seems to consider Oben's inquiry for several moments. "Of course, my fine man, payment for your service is in the work. I am still determining the exact payment with my superiors, however I promise you that there will be a monetary payment - as well as perhaps other dealings with the Nedroatani government. For the head of Bisolta, expect at least 300 gold pieces each. For his capture, well . . . that would certainly yield some consideration of reward. You would be doing such a service to our nation in that case." Saltonstall returned to his dinner, finishing it in several bites. "Yet, this all is assuming you prove yourself loyal to Nedroatan and her people..."
CHARACTERS
Bakreag Ingotheart [Lvl. 1] Mountain Dwarf Paladin [Out of The Abyss PbP]
Dungeon Master - [Druidic Embers PbP]