Warant, Isle of Chalm, early springThe first ship of the year from the mainland lays into port in the city of Warant on the western shore of Chalm. Shortly after, the crew and dockworkers begin to unload crates of cargo - produce and a herd of sheep from the mainland, mostly - and the passengers disembark.
A surly dwarf points a thumb toward some ramshackle buildings near the waterfront.
"Drunken Goblin's where you folks'll be wanting to go. Only inn in the city that ain't full up this time of year. Ye might mention Ol' Bronzebelly pointed ye that way. Miss Ferra - she's the owner - might give ye a break if'n ye tell her I'm pointing business her way."
The dwarf, presumable Ol' Bronzebelly, gives much the same speech to all of the three dozen or so passengers getting off the ship. Similarly, an assortment of native islanders begin whispering rumors while mingling with the new arrivals, even before anyone's reached the Drunken Goblin Inn.
Spoiler
So, I'm assuming you guys have all gotten to know each other a little bit on the month-long ship ride from the mainland, and you'll all have heard one of the eight rumors I'm posting here. I'll roll randomly for who gets what rumor.
Rolls
1d8=3, 1d8=3, 1d8=8, 1d8=7, 1d8=1, 1d8=2 (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/4609452/)
Arkansan - 3
pspahn - 3
Daztur - 8
Spinachcat - 7
Opaopajr - 1
pbj44 - 2
Everyone gets the rumor corresponding to their number.
Rumors
1. Goblins have been plaguing the Old Hill road, besieging trade caravans. The Lord Governor of Warant has set a bounty of five silver pieces for goblin ears, and an extra bounty of 100 gold if presented with proof that the goblins are no longer a threat.
2. Rumor has it that there's a nest of owlbears in a cave just inside Blackheart Forest, five miles out of town. Everyone knows owlbear eggs are a delicacy, and their pelts make for the best leather on the island.
3. An old wizard's tower has fallen into ruin outside town. It's rumored to be haunted and the wizard's treasures are said to still lay within. The tower is perpetually shrouded in mist, and none have been brave enough to enter in years.
4. Legend has it, a tiny island known as the Fang to the north of Warant is home to an old smuggler's den that may still hold a cache of valuables left there long ago. Most sailors in Warant think the Fang is cursed with bad luck and won't go anywhere near it, however.
5. The teens of Warant insist that the local graveyard is haunted. They say that, if you spend the night in the graveyard during a full moon, a restless spirit will appear. The identity of the spirit is always changing – some say it's a half-elven woman, while some insist it's a full-blooded orc warrior (though why an orc would be buried there is another mystery altogether).
6. A local farmer, Old Man Hatchet, is willing to pay good gold to enterprising folk willing to clear any unwanted beasts from a cave on his property. Purportedly, the cave contains some sort of giant rodent or insect – Old Man Hatchet's sight is failing and his account varies from telling to telling.
7. Tales tell of a burnt elf village in the Blackheart forest east of Warant. Legend has it among the trackers and rangers that on a full moon, a secret place is revealed, filled with elven treasure.
8. A hobgoblin warlord in the village of Kane on the isle to the northwest of Warant is gathering followers and building a small fleet, supposedly to begin an incursion onto Chalm. Locals say the Lord Governor would pay a great sum to those bringing back more concrete evidence of this fleet.
Theodotos approaches Denther, "What say you Brother, shall we test the hospitality of this Drunken Goblin Inn?"
He glances with some unease at the city docks and holds fast to his holy symbol.
(http://i.imgur.com/zWO4YqA.jpg)
"Neorth guides our journey, but Dui will steady our hands."
"Well I don't know about you lot but I'm getting a drink any one that wants is welcome to tag along" Gareth says to no one in particular.
He will make for Drunken Goblin, inquire about this wizards tower he heard about on the voyage, and buy himself something to drink.
"For beasties they pay bounty to disfigure, but I wonder what they know of these goblins when is drunk." While walking his donkey off the ship, it has a moment of reluctance on the plank connecting to the pier, "Come, Polycarpos, I steer you not wrong yet. Soon we fill your saddles with fruits, luscious like before." The donkey abides.
"I need you stabling, and bed to rest for me. We go to these people who know & have seen these drunken beasties." Totters off towards the Drunken Goblin alternately muttering, "Miss Ferra, Agéd Bronzebelly, Miss Ferra, Agéd Bronzebelly..." as if to remember them.
"Come Nonik," says Borgarus in the dwarf's usual pompous tone, "let us see if there is any basement space where I can have you dig us some proper sleeping trenches. And make sure that you don't live up to the name of his disgusting hovel."
The young goblin, accompanied by a small but vicious dog, scampered around its masters fine but well-worn pants as the pair approached the inn.
Quote from: pbj44;780388Theodotos approaches Denther, "What say you Brother, shall we test the hospitality of this Drunken Goblin Inn?"
"Yes, that sounds like a good place to get our legs back under us after a month at sea. I'd like to find out more about this wizard's tower as well."
Denther tends to his animals. "Come Holly, come Molasses!"
The dog bounds off the boat and starts sniffing everything, but the horse is as obstinate as ever and does not wish to traverse the ramp. Denther tugs on the reins, pleads with the horse, and finally gets behind it and starts pushing.
One of the sailors who's been watching the spectacle says, "Oy friend, it's probably na' wise to push on an 'orse's rump like that. Try a good whistle."
Denther considers the man's advice. Wisdom has never been his strong point. He puts his fingers in his mouth and whistles. On cue, the huge draft horse trots down the ramp and onto the docks.
"Thank you!" Denther says, but the laughing sailors wave him off.
Denther looks to his new companions. "The Drunken Goblin, then?"
Sidling over to Borgarus on the way the Drunken Goblin, "Oh, there it is you are, Mister Borgarus, my friend."
Assuming a dwarvish familiarity with fellow sea traveller, "I forgot you has a said beastie, like the tavern named to which we go. Did you see ever your goblin with the drunkenness? To what I should expect?, a night sleep with much noise?"
"They rumor at Warant, by the governor!, that such beasties cause the caravans that supply problems. But so behaved was yours, we made across the ocean, yes? Misunderstood beasties, no?"
"Well, cousin," says Bogarus with an avuncular air, "goblins are naturally servile creatures. They will serve even the foulest beings in return for a pottage of gruel. But with a fair hand they are most amendable to proper discipline.
And yes, the helping of these pink-faces is quite disconcerting. However, I do hope that I will be allowed to dig a proper sleeping trench in the cellar and thus avoid the worst of the noise."
When Bogarus gets a chance, the dwarf will ask the barkeep if it would be possible to bed down in the cellar.
Theodotos finds a table where he and his new-found companions can sit and then orders a glass of wine.
"To your good health gentlemen!"
Bogarus orders a glass of whatever is cheapest, planning to dump it down Nonik's throat at the first opportunity and surreptitiously refill it from the wine bottle in his bag. Fortune hasn't smiled on this dwarf and has left Bogarus with a thin purse.
"It is certainly good for the health to be off that leaking tub. I'll drink to that."
"Pardon my question, for I am but looking for a Miss Ferra? By the Agéd Bronzebelly was I referred, to seek for room for myself & stabling for my Polycarpos, a donkey of good disposition. You would please have available?"
In a lowered whisper, "and for how many the cost in coin?"
McGinty OrcHunter, stretches to his full height (all 36 inches) and looks Bronzebelly in the eye, or more likely, his beard.
"Dwarf, spread the word. The Orchunter has arrived on Chalm. Killing time has begun for the pig men."
McGinty shrugs his empty pack and full quiver over his shoulder, double checks his wineskin (again), heft his weapons and walks down the gangplank into Warant.
With nary a silver, McGinty doubts he'll afford the fare at the Drunken Goblin, so its time to see if the street grocers have some cheap vegetables for sale.
Quote from: Daztur;780473"Come Nonik," says Borgarus in the dwarf's usual pompous tone, "let us see if there is any basement space where I can have you dig us some proper sleeping trenches. And make sure that you don't live up to the name of his disgusting hovel."
The young goblin, accompanied by a small but vicious dog, scampered around its masters fine but well-worn pants as the pair approached the inn.
Poor, long-suffering Nonik puts up with the yapping and occasional nip from the dog. He straightens his shoulders, releases an almost inaudible sigh, and resolutely follows his dwarven master.
Quote from: Daztur;780637"Well, cousin," says Bogarus with an avuncular air, "goblins are naturally servile creatures. They will serve even the foulest beings in return for a pottage of gruel. But with a fair hand they are most amendable to proper discipline.
And yes, the helping of these pink-faces is quite disconcerting. However, I do hope that I will be allowed to dig a proper sleeping trench in the cellar and thus avoid the worst of the noise."
When Bogarus gets a chance, the dwarf will ask the barkeep if it would be possible to bed down in the cellar.
The barkeep, a middle aged woman with a long, blonde braid - presumably Miss Ferra - plunks down the various drinks in front of the party after a reasonably short wait.
At Bogarus's request, she stares blankly.
"In... the cellar? I really don't think that's a good idea. I don't know how they do it in whatever dwarven hole you come from, but here on Chalm, we sleep in beds like civilized people."
Quote from: Opaopajr;780773"Pardon my question, for I am but looking for a Miss Ferra? By the Agéd Bronzebelly was I referred, to seek for room for myself & stabling for my Polycarpos, a donkey of good disposition. You would please have available?"
In a lowered whisper, "and for how many the cost in coin?"
Miss Ferra, previously stumped by Bogarus, appears even more bewildered, to the point where she actually cocks her head to one side.
"Uh, yes. I'm Miss Ferra. You say that Bronzebelly sent you? Damn dwarf, always sending me the foreigners..."
At the mention of coin, she perks up a bit.
"That'll be two silver a night per room. Each room has two beds, two chamberpots, and a key for the water barrels downstairs."
Quote from: Spinachcat;780806McGinty OrcHunter, stretches to his full height (all 36 inches) and looks Bronzebelly in the eye, or more likely, his beard.
"Dwarf, spread the word. The Orchunter has arrived on Chalm. Killing time has begun for the pig men."
McGinty shrugs his empty pack and full quiver over his shoulder, double checks his wineskin (again), heft his weapons and walks down the gangplank into Warant.
With nary a silver, McGinty doubts he'll afford the fare at the Drunken Goblin, so its time to see if the street grocers have some cheap vegetables for sale.
The dwarf stares for a moment, then bursts into laughter.
"Ye hear that, lads! We've got us an Orchunter here! Thinks he can take on the whole damn island himself, I reckon!"
While most of the surrounding dockworkers chuckle along, a gray-skinned fellow with prominent tusks - an orc! - just shakes his head and scowls in the party's general direction.
"You are very generous, Miss Ferra, for offering a bed for my donkey as well as I. But though well behaved, Polycarpos, will have the trouble on using your establishment's steps, even if he may have the aim for the chamberpot. Stabling, for how many the coin?, would his nature better suit, yes?"
Faradonas looks at his money and counts and recounts and fusses with the silver & copper, as if money leaving him makes him sad. Ten copper and a silver are pinched off, then back with 20 copper instead, and finally two silver are shuffled out and placed out towards Miss Ferra. "He is a good beast, but not a pet for the houses indoors so much."
Denther empties his entire purse on the table. "A round of drinks for my friends, please." He scoops the remaining coins back into his belt pouch oblivious to the greedy stares of others.
Quote from: pspahn;781129Denther empties his entire purse on the table. "A round of drinks for my friends, please." He scoops the remaining coins back into his belt pouch oblivious to the greedy stares of others.
"HO! HO! You are a man of adventure I see!"
Quote from: pbj44;781159"HO! HO! You are a man of adventure I see!"
"In truth, the adventuring trade is quite new to me," Denther says. "I have been fortunate enough to save a few coins here and there from my work as a scribe and I hope to make more in search of treasure, particularly any treasure dealing with books and scrolls. If we're to explore this island, I'd like to learn more of this wizard's tower."
Denther flags down the barmaid. "Missus, have you heard aught of a magician's tower on this isle?"
Bogarus gives Miss Ferra a long-suffering sigh at her typical human foolishness, "Beds? Up high in the sky? That will never do. If there is a beaver infestation it will all come tumbling down! I would be happy to have Nonik dig any sleeping trenches that are required."
If the innkeeper isn't cooperative then after finishing talking to the rest of the party Bogarus will go outside and have Nonik dig them a trench in some quiet spot. Once Nonik gets tired and starts whining, the dwarf will reluctantly pitch in with the digging.
After paying — and finding stabling for my donkey? — I will go settle my gear within my room, get water from the basement barrels, and finally return to the common area to ask where the nearest vegetable market is.
"Pardon, you the maiden serving drinks to us travelers, a moment time for question?"
"A half pitcher of light beer, please. And happen you to know if guests can cook specialty dish or maybe serve you to us the famous aubergine in a style local? Interested in the vegetable market to where I can supply with the jeweled fruit for my travels, I would be interested in. You are very kind to listen to me."
Quote from: pspahn;781415"In truth, the adventuring trade is quite new to me," Denther says. "I have been fortunate enough to save a few coins here and there from my work as a scribe and I hope to make more in search of treasure, particularly any treasure dealing with books and scrolls. If we're to explore this island, I'd like to learn more of this wizard's tower."
Theodotos nods, "A wizard's tower does sound fascinating. I'm certainly game to venture inside as well!"
Quote from: Opaopajr;781116"You are very generous, Miss Ferra, for offering a bed for my donkey as well as I. But though well behaved, Polycarpos, will have the trouble on using your establishment's steps, even if he may have the aim for the chamberpot. Stabling, for how many the coin?, would his nature better suit, yes?"
Faradonas looks at his money and counts and recounts and fusses with the silver & copper, as if money leaving him makes him sad. Ten copper and a silver are pinched off, then back with 20 copper instead, and finally two silver are shuffled out and placed out towards Miss Ferra. "He is a good beast, but not a pet for the houses indoors so much."
Miss Ferra blinks, trying to take in what Faradonas has said. Eventually, she figures it out.
"An extra silver for the beast. Three total, two for the room, one for the stabling."
Quote from: pspahn;781129Denther empties his entire purse on the table. "A round of drinks for my friends, please." He scoops the remaining coins back into his belt pouch oblivious to the greedy stares of others.
The coins on the table, however brief the time before they're scooped up, catches the attention of several inn patrons, and naturally, a brunette barmaid.
"Whatever you say, hon. A round of drinks, coming up." The barmaid quickly returns with ale all around.
Quote from: pspahn;781415"In truth, the adventuring trade is quite new to me," Denther says. "I have been fortunate enough to save a few coins here and there from my work as a scribe and I hope to make more in search of treasure, particularly any treasure dealing with books and scrolls. If we're to explore this island, I'd like to learn more of this wizard's tower."
Denther flags down the barmaid. "Missus, have you heard aught of a magician's tower on this isle?"
The barmaid shakes her head.
"Never heard of any magician's tower. You might want to head over to the Mage's Guild, two streets over on the north side of town. Can't miss it, it's a big marble building across the street from Gods' Row."
Quote from: Daztur;781418Bogarus gives Miss Ferra a long-suffering sigh at her typical human foolishness, "Beds? Up high in the sky? That will never do. If there is a beaver infestation it will all come tumbling down! I would be happy to have Nonik dig any sleeping trenches that are required."
If the innkeeper isn't cooperative then after finishing talking to the rest of the party Bogarus will go outside and have Nonik dig them a trench in some quiet spot. Once Nonik gets tired and starts whining, the dwarf will reluctantly pitch in with the digging.
Miss Ferra doesn't even bat an eyelash.
"Do not dig up my basement."
That said, there appears to be some relatively soft ground across the street from the inn in a rat-infested alley.
Quote from: Opaopajr;781575After paying — and finding stabling for my donkey? — I will go settle my gear within my room, get water from the basement barrels, and finally return to the common area to ask where the nearest vegetable market is.
"Pardon, you the maiden serving drinks to us travelers, a moment time for question?"
"A half pitcher of light beer, please. And happen you to know if guests can cook specialty dish or maybe serve you to us the famous aubergine in a style local? Interested in the vegetable market to where I can supply with the jeweled fruit for my travels, I would be interested in. You are very kind to listen to me."
Unlike Miss Ferra, the barmaid doesn't even try to decipher Faradonas's speech.
"Tonight we have beef stew, honey bread, and chicken pot pie for dinner. Vegetable market is down the road on the waterfront side. You'll see the stalls."
Quote from: Carcharodon;782013"Never heard of any magician's tower. You might want to head over to the Mage's Guild, two streets over on the north side of town. Can't miss it, it's a big marble building across the street from Gods' Row."
Turning to Denther, "Sounds fascinating! Care for a stroll to visit them?"
Bogarus decides to spend the night in the rat-infested alley, trusting in Squeak (a most skillful ratter) to keep the rodents at bay. As the dwarf digs a sleeping trench (much to Bogarus' frustration Nonik's spindly goblin arms proved unequal to the task), Nonik gets treated to an extensive lecture about the various failings of humans, chief among them their bizarre desire to sleep high enough above the ground that a simple fall would be deadly which is quite likely considering the poor quality of human engineering and their unwillingness to be the beneficiaries of free basement improvement.
Denther - Magic-UserQuote from: pbj44;782099Turning to Denther, "Sounds fascinating! Care for a stroll to visit them?"
"Certainly!"
Denther sips his drink and makes sure their companions know their destination. He listens in on several conversations and if nothing interesting occurs, he pays his tab* and prepares to leave. He notices several patrons eyeing his purse and suspects they admire the craftmanship. He has never been very wise when it comes to assessing strangers and their intentions.
"Come, friend Theodotus. We shall check out this Mage's Guild together. And I suspect this God's Row may be of some interest to you as well."
Quote from: Daztur;782121Bogarus decides to spend the night in the rat-infested alley, trusting in Squeak (a most skillful ratter) to keep the rodents at bay. As the dwarf digs a sleeping trench (much to Bogarus' frustration Nonik's spindly goblin arms proved unequal to the task), Nonik gets treated to an extensive lecture about the various failings of humans, chief among them their bizarre desire to sleep high enough above the ground that a simple fall would be deadly which is quite likely considering the poor quality of human engineering and their unwillingness to be the beneficiaries of free basement improvement.
Denther is appalled when he realizes what Bogarus is doing. "Friend Bogarus, no need to sleep in this alley. I am happy to pay for your accommodations. If a second story room is not to your liking, I'm sure we can negotiate a stay in the tavern's wine cellar to make you feel more at home."*
*OOC: Cost for the drinks and lodging for myself and Bogarus if he agrees?
Faradonas - dwarf
After stabling Polycarpos and taking a furtive look around the block to get his bearing and suss out where the vegetable market will be, Faradonas will return to the safety of the tavern and familiar faces from the boat. Puts his gear away in his room and secures the door, hiding any excess funds in little packets all about his pack and person (and even a coin under two bed posts). He comes back into the common area, takes a deep breath as his language barrier is disheartening him, and tries to remember the menu.
Sits tentatively with his fellow travel mates, looking about if it is OK, "It is with the permission, boat fellows, that may I take this seat?" Sits and tries to hail the barmaid with confidence, but a bit too loud, "A singular pie with chicken in the pot and ouzo, with your pleasure!" Smiles and looks about like he is successfully blending in.
Quote from: pspahn;782214Denther - Magic-User
"Come, friend Theodotus. We shall check out this Mage's Guild together. And I suspect this God's Row may be of some interest to you as well."
Theodotus nods and rises, "I am sure the Mage's Guild will have the most up-to-date information about this tower. Normally my order would frown upon such a visit by a lesser priest like myself, but I was fortunate enough coin-wise when planning this trip to have purchased an indulgence."
Quote from: pspahn;782214Denther - Magic-User
Denther is appalled when he realizes what Bogarus is doing. "Friend Bogarus, no need to sleep in this alley. I am happy to pay for your accommodations. If a second story room is not to your liking, I'm sure we can negotiate a stay in the tavern's wine cellar to make you feel more at home."
"Kindly done sir! Dear me! It strikes me that I should take a moment and arrange for an accommodation myself!"
Turning to Miss Ferra, "Good host, I would like to rent one of your rooms if one is available."
When all business is done he is ready to take a stroll with Denther down to the guild.
Bogarus would happily sleep in the wine cellar and thanks his companion profusely.
Quote from: pspahn;782214Denther - Magic-User
"Certainly!"
Denther sips his drink and makes sure their companions know their destination. He listens in on several conversations and if nothing interesting occurs, he pays his tab* and prepares to leave. He notices several patrons eyeing his purse and suspects they admire the craftmanship. He has never been very wise when it comes to assessing strangers and their intentions.
"Come, friend Theodotus. We shall check out this Mage's Guild together. And I suspect this God's Row may be of some interest to you as well."
Denther is appalled when he realizes what Bogarus is doing. "Friend Bogarus, no need to sleep in this alley. I am happy to pay for your accommodations. If a second story room is not to your liking, I'm sure we can negotiate a stay in the tavern's wine cellar to make you feel more at home."*
*OOC: Cost for the drinks and lodging for myself and Bogarus if he agrees?
The Mage's Guild is an ugly single-story building made of white marble. A wood sign proclaims its status as the Mages' Guild, but the typical stereotype of a wondrous tower filled with marvels is, sadly, completely absent. The building looks more like a bank or town hall than a magical locale.
As for Gods' Row, the entire road across from the Mages' Guild is lined with shrines, temples, and even a small wood shack that appears to be dedicated to some nature goddess.
OOC: Lodging is 2sp per room and anywhere from 5cp to 2sp for drinks, depending on what you want to spend.Quote from: Opaopajr;782226Faradonas - dwarf
After stabling Polycarpos and taking a furtive look around the block to get his bearing and suss out where the vegetable market will be, Faradonas will return to the safety of the tavern and familiar faces from the boat. Puts his gear away in his room and secures the door, hiding any excess funds in little packets all about his pack and person (and even a coin under two bed posts). He comes back into the common area, takes a deep breath as his language barrier is disheartening him, and tries to remember the menu.
Sits tentatively with his fellow travel mates, looking about if it is OK, "It is with the permission, boat fellows, that may I take this seat?" Sits and tries to hail the barmaid with confidence, but a bit too loud, "A singular pie with chicken in the pot and ouzo, with your pleasure!" Smiles and looks about like he is successfully blending in.
The food arrives rapidly. The drink is closer to vodka or gin than ouzo. Ouzo might be hard to find on the islands, given its distance from the mainland.
Quote from: pbj44;782235Theodotus nods and rises, "I am sure the Mage's Guild will have the most up-to-date information about this tower. Normally my order would frown upon such a visit by a lesser priest like myself, but I was fortunate enough coin-wise when planning this trip to have purchased an indulgence."
"Kindly done sir! Dear me! It strikes me that I should take a moment and arrange for an accommodation myself!"
Turning to Miss Ferra, "Good host, I would like to rent one of your rooms if one is available."
When all business is done he is ready to take a stroll with Denther down to the guild.
"Two silver for the room, good sir. Drinks or dinner for you tonight? Dinner is on the house with a room."
Miss Ferra speaks rapidly, then moves to another table as quickly as possible, trying to get as much money out of her patrons as possible without being rude about it.
McGinty Orchunter - Halfling
McGinty joins the dwarf in his raucous laughter. "Oh you funny bearded barrel! I love a good jest. But you're right! Ho ho! This whole damn island is going to drown in orc blood!" The pint sized warrior doubles over giggling some more, but then stops suddenly and icily stares at the orc dockworker while licking an arrow from his quiver.
After an awkward moment, McGinty Orchunter wanders into the streets looking for the vegetable stalls. "Ah, nothing but coppers in my pouch, but chewing on two dozen carrots beats chewing on my leathers."
Once he's done at the market, McGinty will make his way back to the tavern to socialize with the rest of the party, but he'll be paying careful attention to the trees in the area. He'll be sleeping in the branches tonight.
Faradonas
"Of work, my friends, you speak of for which to gain coin. This is something to my mind that will be useful to me, yes? Join, perhaps together, we can for profit?"
Has a shot of the gin and winces, looks about to see of throwing the glass is traditional and takes the room's cue to just set it down.
"For myself of to hear, about Lord of Warant, he give 5 silver bounty for goblin ears. The caravans they thwart, which stops the precious vegetables I am sure! A bonus of 100 gold for goblins no longer a threat, the proof we need. Good opportunity, then make fortune can we in the vegetable trade!"
Quote from: Carcharodon;783004The Mage's Guild is an ugly single-story building made of white marble. A wood sign proclaims its status as the Mages' Guild, but the typical stereotype of a wondrous tower filled with marvels is, sadly, completely absent. The building looks more like a bank or town hall than a magical locale.
As for Gods' Row, the entire road across from the Mages' Guild is lined with shrines, temples, and even a small wood shack that appears to be dedicated to some nature goddess.
Theodotus smiles and turns to Denther, "After you, my friend!"
Quote from: Carcharodon;783004"Two silver for the room, good sir. Drinks or dinner for you tonight? Dinner is on the house with a room."
Miss Ferra speaks rapidly, then moves to another table as quickly as possible, trying to get as much money out of her patrons as possible without being rude about it.
Theodotus nods and quickly places a single gold coin in her hand, "I will take the room. Please let me know when this is exhausted."
Exhausted by digging the abortive sleeping trench, Bogarus is now snoring soundly in the cellar alongside his goblin servant watched over by a still-wakeful Squeak.
Denther - Mage
Quote from: pbj44;783056Theodotus smiles and turns to Denther, "After you, my friend
Denther purses his lips as he looks at the shoddy guild house. "Certainly not what one would expect of a wizard's haven, but perhaps the guild has fallen on ill times." A thought occurs to him. "Or perhaps it is simply an illusion to fool the eyes of the uninitiated?"
Denther peers closely at the building. If it does not shimmer, and wave, and morph into a magnificent Tower of the Arcane Arts, he will shrug and enter through the front door.
OOC: 2 gp paid for room and board for himself, cellar rental, and a round of drinks for his friends.
Theodotus nods in agreement, "Hard times indeed!"
"I have heard rumor that many years ago the guild was the organizational home to a number of powerful mages. Let us hope that at least one knowledgable one still bides here."
He follows Denther inside.
Unfortunately, the Mages' Guild does not transform into a wondrous tower. Instead, the interior looks more like a plush tavern than a place of arcane knowledge. A few books lie scattered about on tables, but nothing that looks like a spellbook can be seen. In a reclined chair in one corner, a human in ridiculous blue robes with stars on the sleeves snores loudly. On the other side of the room, nursing a drink and perusing a copy of "Owlbears and Assorted Transmutation Accidents" is a female elf in more sensible plain robes.
"Can I help you gentlemen? Welcome to Warant's Mages' Guild. We are the only licensed practitioners of magic in the city, and the only guild here on Chalm."
Theodotus bows, "Good afternoon, both my companion, mage Denther, and myself, are interested in the local history of the area and were wondering if you could assist us".
Quote from: Carcharodon;783813Unfortunately, the Mages' Guild does not transform into a wondrous tower. Instead, the interior looks more like a plush tavern than a place of arcane knowledge. A few books lie scattered about on tables, but nothing that looks like a spellbook can be seen. In a reclined chair in one corner, a human in ridiculous blue robes with stars on the sleeves snores loudly. On the other side of the room, nursing a drink and perusing a copy of "Owlbears and Assorted Transmutation Accidents" is a female elf in more sensible plain robes.
"Can I help you gentlemen? Welcome to Warant's Mages' Guild. We are the only licensed practitioners of magic in the city, and the only guild here on Chalm."
" Licensed? Since when does one need a license to practice the arcane art? As my good companion has said, we are interested in information, particularly any information about an abandoned wizard's tower we have heard about."
McGinty Orchunter - Halfling
McGinty wanders about the vegetable market, looking for something fresh, filling and most importantly, really cheap. Being short as a child, he goes unnoticed in the hubbub of the marketplace, keeping a keen ear out for interesting conversation...and a keen eye out for pickpockets...
Among the merchants, McGinty hears excited talk about a torched elf village in the Blackheart forest to the east of Warant, but more interesting still was a grizzled woodsman telling his nodding fellows that on a full moon, a secret location in the forest abode is revealed, filled with elven treasure.(*)
"Treasure? Hmm, I could use some of that about now", thinks McGinty. "And I know who burnt it down, orcs...orcs who need bleeding..."
*[OOC: this is the rumor McGinty started with]
Bogarus wakes up and gives his body a good and thorough scratching. It wasn't a proper sleeping trench but it was better than nothing. After giving the goblin a gentle kick to wake it, Bogarus goes up in search of the dwarf's companions.
Faradonas, feeling a bit alone as his companions have gone to do their own thing so rapidly after the meal, looks furtively at other tables for a chance to join in the conversation.
He will make several tentative attempts with his faltering grasp of the language. If he feels shot down, he will smile nervously and get up dejected to go back to his room. Once there he will pick up 8 or so copper pieces to cheer himself up at the vegetable market!
Bogarus, not finding any companions will head off to look for jewelers and ask them where jewels can be found in these distant isles. Maybe up in some mountains? Perhaps the humans would be willing to go dig some out.
Quote from: pbj44;784282Theodotus bows, "Good afternoon, both my companion, mage Denther, and myself, are interested in the local history of the area and were wondering if you could assist us".
Quote from: pspahn;784349" Licensed? Since when does one need a license to practice the arcane art? As my good companion has said, we are interested in information, particularly any information about an abandoned wizard's tower we have heard about."
The mage snorts.
"Always needed a license on Chalm. Damn mainlanders, you never bother to learn our laws, do you? Mages here either get licensed by the guild or they get thrown in jail. Can't go practicing magic without the guild certifying that you know what you young fools are doing."
He points a thumb over his shoulder toward a door.
"History texts are back there. Too bad only licensed mages get access to guild resources, isn't it?"
Quote from: Spinachcat;784561McGinty Orchunter - Halfling
McGinty wanders about the vegetable market, looking for something fresh, filling and most importantly, really cheap. Being short as a child, he goes unnoticed in the hubbub of the marketplace, keeping a keen ear out for interesting conversation...and a keen eye out for pickpockets...
Among the merchants, McGinty hears excited talk about a torched elf village in the Blackheart forest to the east of Warant, but more interesting still was a grizzled woodsman telling his nodding fellows that on a full moon, a secret location in the forest abode is revealed, filled with elven treasure.(*)
"Treasure? Hmm, I could use some of that about now", thinks McGinty. "And I know who burnt it down, orcs...orcs who need bleeding..."
*[OOC: this is the rumor McGinty started with]
About the most McGinty can recognize is that the woodsman talking about the forest is, despite being completely and utterly drunk, apparently believed by his companions. A small group, three or four, look like they might even be considering going out and finding this village, at least as far as McGinty can tell from their excited whispers.
Quote from: Opaopajr;784629Faradonas, feeling a bit alone as his companions have gone to do their own thing so rapidly after the meal, looks furtively at other tables for a chance to join in the conversation.
He will make several tentative attempts with his faltering grasp of the language. If he feels shot down, he will smile nervously and get up dejected to go back to his room. Once there he will pick up 8 or so copper pieces to cheer himself up at the vegetable market!
The market is packed with people, both new folks from the mainland and local farmers. Vegetables, meat, poultry, and an overwhelming amount of various fish pack tables and stalls for nearly the whole length of the city. And, of course, sales people: farmers, fishmongers, con men, and even kids holding signs for the local inns and taverns. If it's on Chalm, it can probably be found in the market in Warant.
Quote from: Daztur;784694Bogarus, not finding any companions will head off to look for jewelers and ask them where jewels can be found in these distant isles. Maybe up in some mountains? Perhaps the humans would be willing to go dig some out.
Bogarus's search leads him to a small building with an armed, armored man standing outside. The sign on the building says "Black Hand Jewels."
Denther - Magic-UserQuote from: Carcharodon;785135The mage snorts.
"Always needed a license on Chalm. Damn mainlanders, you never bother to learn our laws, do you? Mages here either get licensed by the guild or they get thrown in jail. Can't go practicing magic without the guild certifying that you know what you young fools are doing."
He points a thumb over his shoulder toward a door.
"History texts are back there. Too bad only licensed mages get access to guild resources, isn't it?"
"Yes, isn't it," Denther says through gritted teeth. "So tell me, good sir. How does one go about joining the Mage's Guild of Chum so that I may partake of this impressive establishment?"
For some reason when Denther voices "the Mages Guild of Chum" Theodotus bursts into a fit of coughing.
"Pardon me folks! A bit of road dust!"
Holding a handkerchief to his mouth conceals a smile that threatens to explode into gales of laughter.
Bogarus walked up to the door of Black Hand Jewels, hoping to engage the proprietor in a friendly discussion of jewel supply sourcing. If challenged by the guard, the dwarf attempts to explain that he is a skilled master dwarf jeweler and would enjoy talking shop with the master of the house and would perhaps even be willing to share dwarfish jewel-crafting lore.
Quote from: Carcharodon;785135The market is packed with people, both new folks from the mainland and local farmers. Vegetables, meat, poultry, and an overwhelming amount of various fish pack tables and stalls for nearly the whole length of the city. And, of course, sales people: farmers, fishmongers, con men, and even kids holding signs for the local inns and taverns. If it's on Chalm, it can probably be found in the market in Warant.
Aubergines!
I beeline to the aubergines (eggplant) and scour for the most firm, plump, jeweled-skin examples I can find. I start talking shop to the stall owner. I engage onlookers about how luscious and delicious these fruits are, with but a mere trifle of effort. I speak recipes of frying them, roasting them, baking them, substituting meat texture with them. I speak myths and legends where aubergines were present...
I linger as much as my eight coppers worth allows.
McGinty Orchunter - Halfling
McGinty takes a hard look at the whispering companions of the drunken woodsman, noting if they either fools, mercenaries or adventurers like himself and his companions.
He considers asking them about their plans, but suddenly hears Faradonas at a nearby vegetable stall waxing poetically about eggplants, especially those romantic lyrics about frying, roasting and baking! Ah, the songs of cooking no half starved halfling can ignore!
"My good Faradonas, perhaps this purveyor of fine eggplants knows someone willing to cook them up for us? I am absent any gold, but I can shake some coppers out of my purse! Oh, and that besotted woodcutter over there is mumbling about a torched elven village full of hidden treasure. But first, the aubergines!"
"Oh, with lament to those poor elven refugees. A belly full of babaganoush, perhaps, and safe escort to destroyed village of theirs, a thing it would be to just raise their spirits! Reward us they, from their hidden treasures, maybe — but of the good will, think!
You, Mister McGinty, a generous soul you have to think of unfortunates, while your belly growls from here!"
To the stall owner, "Where to have cooked these precious jewels from the earth? A stall with special requests that takes them, nearby?"
Back to McGinty Orchunter – Halfling, "Heard all I was about goblins and caravans besieged on Old Hill Road. Five silver per ears of a goblin, Lord Governor of Warant is said to give, and more for removal of threat, with proof! But cruel work... Kind hearted you are, your lead is better, to save elven refugees & hope to be restored. So noble."
OOC: How many aubergines do I buy? And perhaps find a stall to cook up veggies for my pal McGinty.
I want to help the elvish refugees now, because it is a good thing -- and I get to cook aubergines for them.
OOC - Carcharodon, are you still with us? Denther and Theodotus need your assistance.
McGinty Orchunter - Halfling
McGinty eyeballs the drunk woodsman, his excited friends and muses on Faradonas' words.
"Faradonas, I agree on the belly full of babaganoush, but I haven't heard if there are any surviving elves. Perhaps we should chat with the tree chopper and his drinking fellows? If goblins are to blame, we might be able to loop off heads for silvers while we find this elven gold."
McGinty strides (waddles?) over to the woodsman, walking into the middle of their conversation, "Alright now humans, listen here. I'm the Orchunter and that there dwarf is Faradonas. If you are serious about trekking to this elf village, come to the Drunken Goblin tonight. We have others, killers and sorcerers, who would be interested in what you have to say."
Timidly following behind McGinty, "Assistance of your kind to aid refugees of the elves, if they exist from whoever attacked them, and rebuilding of the village, would be a kindness worthy of the most praise. To be honored with your presence will my pleasure to be."
I place an aubergine upon the wooden table — and then I hit it with my scimitar!
Theodotus smiles at the mage, "Yes, Yes! Rules are very important I say! We can't live without 'em!"
He carefully sets 3 gold coins in front of the mage..."Perhaps an interim license..."
As he awaits the mage's response he begins to dance the Sailor's Hornpipe.
He then sways to the left and performs the Shimmy.