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Post by lucesi on Dec 21, 2015 12:12:07 GMT -5
...half asleep and half awake, Yarrick hears loud voices, yelling and crying, and when he squints his eyes open he's blinded by a burning light outside the window. It's noon already. His body is a ragdoll and his head soft like a sponge, and Molsany's green eyes stares intently at him. For some reason, she looks twenty years older and with red hair, but it might just be the powder. She is furious, with muscular arms and a fist that strikes him in the face like an iron gauntlet. His head spins, and Yarrick is pulled from the bed, pushed against the wall, and the crazy woman screams obscenities in Yarrick's face, spittle flying everywhere. Her words are useless since he can't hear anyway, his senses dulled, and his mind still at least twelve hours back in time, tightly held by Molsany's warm embrace. Not until the screaming redhead drags him down the stairs, through the tavern, and tosses him out on the street does he remember her face from the tavern last night when she was chatting with the tavernkeeper. "Don't you ever touch my daughter again!" she yells, looming over him, her face almost as red as her hair. Molsany comes out of the tavern wrapped in a blanket, she begs her mother to stop, but the redhead then strikes her in the face, and drags her inside. A moment later, the redhead appears in the window, tossing out Yarrick's clothes and belongings next to him. "Enjoy your bloody powder!" she yells, echoing the half-orc from the night before. "If I ever see you here again, I'll tear you open from mouth to groin!" Wincing at the pain in his head, and wiping blood from a cut lip, Yarrick wearily puts on his clothes and gathers his belongings, smiling at the blurred memories of Molsany last night through the throbbing. After checking his belongings he moves on.He makes his way back to the docks district, looking for Captain Blake. When he eventually finds him, Yarrick approaches the Captain, despite his crumpled and dishevelled state, and offers his greetings before giving him some news.
"Cap'n I reckon we're being staked out by raiders or pirates. Seems someone's got their eye on us."
He then goes on to explain to Blake the conversations with Walder and Snakes, leaving out the bawdier details of the night, how they said that it would be difficult to compete with adventurers, but that the Tub and Tethys would be rich prizes if they were going to Mazteca.
"Said they were with an Amnian ship. May be worth checking out wi' the dockmaster which ships docked 'ere are from Amn so we know who ter look out fer. Mebbe even report 'em, up to you Skipper."
He provides a description of Walder and Snakes and the hoods and robes they were wearing.
"Oh an done more thing, came across this 'ere map..or half a map". Yarrick unfolds the treasure map and shows it to the Captain. "Supposed to lead to treasure. What do ye reckon to it Cap'n?"
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Post by Defunct Fiddlesticks on Dec 21, 2015 13:13:39 GMT -5
...half asleep and half awake, Yarrick hears loud voices, yelling and crying, and when he squints his eyes open he's blinded by a burning light outside the window. //snip for space. Wincing at the pain in his head, and wiping blood from a cut lip, Yarrick wearily puts on his clothes and gathers his belongings, smiling at the blurred memories of Molsany last night through the throbbing. After checking his belongings he moves on.He makes his way back to the docks district, looking for Captain Blake. When he eventually finds him, Yarrick approaches the Captain, despite his crumpled and dishevelled state, and offers his greetings before giving him some news.
"Cap'n I reckon we're being staked out by raiders or pirates. Seems someone's got their eye on us."
He then goes on to explain to Blake the conversations with Walder and Snakes, leaving out the bawdier details of the night, how they said that it would be difficult to compete with adventurers, but that the Tub and Tethys would be rich prizes if they were going to Mazteca.
"Said they were with an Amnian ship. May be worth checking out wi' the dockmaster which ships docked 'ere are from Amn so we know who ter look out fer. Mebbe even report 'em, up to you Skipper."
He provides a description of Walder and Snakes and the hoods and robes they were wearing.
"Oh an done more thing, came across this 'ere map..or half a map". Yarrick unfolds the treasure map and shows it to the Captain. "Supposed to lead to treasure. What do ye reckon to it Cap'n?" "That would figure, Mister Yarrick." In his cabin, the Captain tells him of the hooded man he noticed. "I blessed an Amnian galleon preparing to set out for Matzica, you and me should pay the Dockmaster a visit. Find out if these rascals are on the crew manifest." He gestures to the wish list of items from the shipyard. "I need to scrape together enough coin to buy something from this list, if we're going to be kneed in the groin by pirates then I want to be ready."
He studies the map with interest. "Well, that could be real...let's take a closer look at it." He lays it out over his desk and picks up a spyglass.
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Post by fisheyes on Dec 21, 2015 14:15:06 GMT -5
"That would figure, Mister Yarrick." In his cabin, the Captain tells him of the hooded man he noticed. "I blessed an Amnian galleon preparing to set out for Matzica, you and me should pay the Dockmaster a visit. Find out if these rascals are on the crew manifest." He gestures to the wish list of items from the shipyard. "I need to scrape together enough coin to buy something from this list, if we're going to be kneed in the groin by pirates then I want to be ready."
He studies the map with interest. "Well, that could be real...let's take a closer look at it." He lays it out over his desk and picks up a spyglass. The map shows Lantan, the coast of Chult to the south, and the Trackless Sea in the west. The map has been torn through the Trackless Sea, and the coast of Tethyr and Calimshan in the east have been burned off. There is no indication to what it might point to, and certainly no X. The parchment is in poor condition, and has large stains of rum, spilled candle wax, circles of ale tankards and a few drops of blood. It has the looks of a map right out of Sandabir the Seafarer and the Seven Horrors of the Sea, but it can hardly be called a treasure map. Without the rest of it, it's of little use even for navigating. On the back of the map someone has scrawled down a list: Flour Bread Tobacco Rum Salted meat Kraken killer poison
Calmseas vomit oil Onyx
Telescope Fishnet Milk Eggs
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Post by Grimnir Gurnison on Dec 21, 2015 14:32:25 GMT -5
"It is not my intent to offend sir." Gardrak retorts, "However, I've been working on more than a few designs that you may find interesting. Dumathoin has blessed me with secret knowledge some that I may not give away or sell either. However, I do wish to possibly see if you might have interest in designs such as those of my terror cock. It's a rooster with an underlying skin of metal and other features. The purpose of which is to protect the flock from predators. As for my metallurgical knowledge? There is nothing arcane about it. I can also brew alchemical mixtures that are products of knowledge and not arcane magic. I built a mechanical crossbow that used to shoot exploding ammunition, but due to an unfortunate altercation it was damaged beyond repair. I've lately been theorizing and designing ideas to create a mechanical suit of mithral armor. I might have knowledge on the wreck of a mithral golem and have been working to figure out a way to recycle it. Such is why I asked about an exchange of culture and knowledge. Perhaps you could help me with this or know someone that might be interested in collaborating with me on such a design? There's another gnome, Skittlethwart, I believe his name is where I'm from and we've worked on a couple ideas. However, we've both agreed to keep them to ourselves until such time as the invention is perfected." Beriock considers the offer, and seems genuinely intrigued by the mechanical suit and golem. "I would have to consult with the temple council and Lord Mayor Veserac SeLongrish for such an exchange. It is not a quick process, I must say. If you are very sincere in your proposal, it would be best if you wrote a formal letter to the Lord Mayor himself. He is a busy man, especially with all the pirate attacks of late. A reply will take a long time. Such requests must go through the right channels." He taps his fingers together. "Would that be all, or did you wish to make a purchase of our machine liquids?" [/quote] Gardrak says, "Perhaps after I draft and send my letter good Beriock. I hope to see you again and that my letter is well received. I think I'd enjoy working here with you for you are fellow intellectuals unlike many that surround me back home.". With that he tithes 1,000 lions to the temple of Gond and sets off to his berth in the Tub where he plans on drafting a letter to Lord Mayor Veserac SeLongrish.
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Post by Defunct Fiddlesticks on Dec 21, 2015 14:33:35 GMT -5
"That would figure, Mister Yarrick." In his cabin, the Captain tells him of the hooded man he noticed. "I blessed an Amnian galleon preparing to set out for Matzica, you and me should pay the Dockmaster a visit. Find out if these rascals are on the crew manifest." He gestures to the wish list of items from the shipyard. "I need to scrape together enough coin to buy something from this list, if we're going to be kneed in the groin by pirates then I want to be ready."
He studies the map with interest. "Well, that could be real...let's take a closer look at it." He lays it out over his desk and picks up a spyglass. The map shows Lantan, the coast of Chult to the south, and the Trackless Sea in the west. The map has been torn through the Trackless Sea, and the coast of Tethyr and Calimshan in the east have been burned off. There is no indication to what it might point to, and certainly no X. The parchment is in poor condition, and has large stains of rum, spilled candle wax, circles of ale tankards and a few drops of blood. It has the looks of a map right out of Sandabir the Seafarer and the Seven Horrors of the Sea, but it can hardly be called a treasure map. Without the rest of it, it's of little use even for navigating. On the back of the map someone has scrawled down a list: Flour Bread Tobacco Rum Salted meat Kraken killer poison
Calmseas vomit oil Onyx
Telescope Fishnet Milk Eggs
"Like so many other "treasure maps" you got to take a hard look at them, a lot of fakes out there!" The Captain chuckles infectiously as he puts down his spyglass "...this isn't real in my view, Mister Yarrick, which is a pity as we could have done with some more coinage this far away from the Company..." He pauses, reading the list "Only thing of interest on here is the fact someone is after Kraken killer poison...worth noting." He stands and picks up his hat. "Come on, we better shake a leg and see the Dockmaster about this Amnian vessel, you can tell him your tale."
The Captain orders his skiff to be lowered as he's going ashore with Yarrick to seek out the Dockmaster.
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Post by fisheyes on Dec 21, 2015 15:10:46 GMT -5
"Like so many other "treasure maps" you got to take a hard look at them, a lot of fakes out there!" The Captain chuckles infectiously as he puts down his spyglass "...this isn't real in my view, Mister Yarrick, which is a pity as we could have done with some more coinage this far away from the Company..." He pauses, reading the list "Only thing of interest on here is the fact someone is after Kraken killer poison...worth noting." He stands and picks up his hat. "Come on, we better shake a leg and see the Dockmaster about this Amnian vessel, you can tell him your tale."
The Captain orders his skiff to be lowered as he's going ashore with Yarrick to seek out the Dockmaster. Asking around, they learn the Dockmaster has his office in the mechanical lighthouse. A strange structure that can be raised or lowered with some complex cog mechanisms. At the top of the lighthouse are several crystal lenses on steam powered metal arms that reach out like branches of a tree. Outside grows peaches and olives. Dockmaster Dinker SeBelbork sits at a desk in a circular room on the second floor. He is almost hidden behind the piles of papers, books and scrolls that cover his desk. In the bookshelf behind him is a bottled ship and a sahuagin skull, carved with runes. On the walls are maps of Lantan, the Moonshae Isles, Nelanther Isles, the Sword Coast, and Chult. A stuffed parrot sits on a peg, and a large telescope is pointed at a window. Dinker adjusts his monocle and scribbles in a ledger, speaking to his visitors without raising his gaze. "Captain Blake, was it? With the Tethys? Thank you once again for cleaning up that shrine of Umberlee. How can I help you?"
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Post by offduty on Dec 21, 2015 15:15:15 GMT -5
Making sure the bird could find no way out of the room, Kathy returns to the deck briefly. She takes the wine, and gifts of food from the sailor. Writing a letter so Captain Blake before the man leaves the ship. Dear Captain Blake, I am unable to leave the ship at this time, but thank you for the gifts. I am sure I will enjoy them a great deal. I hope all has gone well on your ship. Tell Alex I send my love. Kathy.
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Post by Defunct Fiddlesticks on Dec 21, 2015 15:34:34 GMT -5
"Like so many other "treasure maps" you got to take a hard look at them, a lot of fakes out there!" The Captain chuckles infectiously as he puts down his spyglass "...this isn't real in my view, Mister Yarrick, which is a pity as we could have done with some more coinage this far away from the Company..." He pauses, reading the list "Only thing of interest on here is the fact someone is after Kraken killer poison...worth noting." He stands and picks up his hat. "Come on, we better shake a leg and see the Dockmaster about this Amnian vessel, you can tell him your tale."
The Captain orders his skiff to be lowered as he's going ashore with Yarrick to seek out the Dockmaster. Asking around, they learn the Dockmaster has his office in the mechanical lighthouse. A strange structure that can be raised or lowered with some complex cog mechanisms. At the top of the lighthouse are several crystal lenses on steam powered metal arms that reach out like branches of a tree. Outside grows peaches and olives. Dockmaster Dinker SeBelbork sits at a desk in a circular room on the second floor. He is almost hidden behind the piles of papers, books and scrolls that cover his desk. In the bookshelf behind him is a bottled ship and a sahuagin skull, carved with runes. On the walls are maps of Lantan, the Moonshae Isles, Nelanther Isles, the Sword Coast, and Chult. A stuffed parrot sits on a peg, and a large telescope is pointed at a window. Dinker adjusts his monocle and scribbles in a ledger, speaking to his visitors without raising his gaze. "Captain Blake, was it? With the Tethys? Thank you once again for cleaning up that shrine of Umberlee. How can I help you?" "Valkur sir, the sea goddess is a sworn enemy..." The Captain tips his hat cordially, not offended at the slip. "Mister Yarrick is on my crew, Dockmaster. He thinks we may have attracted the attention of some pirates hoping to attack The Tethys and our sister ship, The Tub as we resume our journey...it would seem we have have attracted stalkers."
They would detail the conversations Yarrick told him he had with Walder and Snakes along with descriptions of both and that they are with an Amnian vessel. Blake also mentions the man in the dark hood.
"I blessed a Amnian galleon preparing to go to Matzica. Perhaps it is one and the same and their crew manifest might be worth a look? If not, then maybe there's another Amnian vessel aside from the two I have seen, the one in the shipyard with the lightning cog is not yet leaving, I'd assume." The Captain scratches his chin and looks at the crumpled map shopping list again. "....what are your thoughts, Dockmaster? You know what goes on here more than anyone, I reckon."
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Post by fisheyes on Dec 21, 2015 17:19:16 GMT -5
"Valkur sir, the sea goddess is a sworn enemy..." The Captain tips his hat cordially, not offended at the slip. "Mister Yarrick is on my crew, Dockmaster. He thinks we may have attracted the attention of some pirates hoping to attack The Tethys and our sister ship, The Tub as we resume our journey...it would seem we have have attracted stalkers."
They would detail the conversations Yarrick told him he had with Walder and Snakes along with descriptions of both and that they are with an Amnian vessel. Blake also mentions the man in the dark hood.
"I blessed a Amnian galleon preparing to go to Matzica. Perhaps it is one and the same and their crew manifest might be worth a look? If not, then maybe there's another Amnian vessel aside from the two I have seen, the one in the shipyard with the lightning cog is not yet leaving, I'd assume." The Captain scratches his chin and looks at the crumpled map shopping list again. "....what are your thoughts, Dockmaster? You know what goes on here more than anyone, I reckon." "Valkur, of course, that's what I meant." Dinker stops writing and squints at them, stroking his moustache as he listens to Captain Blake. When the captain is done talking, Dinker makes a few notes on a paper which he puts in the pile of other papers, and flips through a few ledgers. He says that he normally wouldn't discuss other ship crews, but due to the recent pirate attacks and as thanks for Captain Blake's help with the shrine he will make an exception. "No, the names Walder and Snakes are not in here, not on any Amnian ship." he taps a finger in a ledger. "The Amnian galleon headed for Maztica is the Mithral Queen of the Westshore Company, and the one in the shipyard is the Glittering Swan of House Alibakkar. They both have warehouses here in Semport, and are our most prominent Amnian traders. There are also a few smaller ships of individual Amnian merchants." He licks his thumb and turns a page, rattling off a few names. "Captain Garmolkas 'Copperbeard' Tashmander, with his caravel the Drowning Siren, Voskar Mellkabbar of the Golden Redeemer carrack, and Sontos Tir'Kos of the Priceless, a small trade cog." He hops off his chair and walks over to the telescope, peering out at something outside. "I will investigate this further, and send word if I find something. I doubt House Alibakkar or the Westshore Company would be involved in piracy, as they have both lost ships to pirates. If there was nothing else, I have ships to inspect."
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Post by lucesi on Dec 21, 2015 19:54:59 GMT -5
"Valkur, of course, that's what I meant." Dinker stops writing and squints at them, stroking his moustache as he listens to Captain Blake. When the captain is done talking, Dinker makes a few notes on a paper which he puts in the pile of other papers, and flips through a few ledgers. He says that he normally wouldn't discuss other ship crews, but due to the recent pirate attacks and as thanks for Captain Blake's help with the shrine he will make an exception. "No, the names Walder and Snakes are not in here, not on any Amnian ship." he taps a finger in a ledger. "The Amnian galleon headed for Maztica is the Mithral Queen of the Westshore Company, and the one in the shipyard is the Glittering Swan of House Alibakkar. They both have warehouses here in Semport, and are our most prominent Amnian traders. There are also a few smaller ships of individual Amnian merchants." He licks his thumb and turns a page, rattling off a few names. "Captain Garmolkas 'Copperbeard' Tashmander, with his caravel the Drowning Siren, Voskar Mellkabbar of the Golden Redeemer carrack, and Sontos Tir'Kos of the Priceless, a small trade cog." He hops off his chair and walks over to the telescope, peering out at something outside. "I will investigate this further, and send word if I find something. I doubt House Alibakkar or the Westshore Company would be involved in piracy, as they have both lost ships to pirates. If there was nothing else, I have ships to inspect." [/quote] Yarrick leaves the Captain to lead the conversation, merely chipping in to confirm details and minor points. Towards the end he pipes up.
"The half-orc called Walder. Said he'd be in the Rusty Cog if I wanted to see 'im, or play a game o' cards. Reckon it might be worth takin' a few of the lads over to find out what e's got to say fer 'imself Captain? Unless Master Dinker himself wants the authorities to deal wi' it."
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Post by DOT on Dec 21, 2015 21:13:50 GMT -5
"A... steamy... day to you as well."
Ahmed would dip his head politely as he pays for the snack. He slowly gets up, clearly enjoying the fineries of his surround... and then casually makes his way over to the merchant stall that was pointed out. He would take the time to look over any obvious signs of merchant folk and their wares. "Goo-... a steamy day to you. I welcome the opportunity to peruse your wares... might there be any items of note? I had just seen quite the display of those... clockwork crossbows."
There are several merchants further down the street, but they mostly deal in food, non-magical jewellery, pottery, carpets, textile, and leather. In the merchant stall that was pointed out stands a tall Tethyrian man dressed in rich colours, with a thick black beard and dark eyes. His name is Sharim, and he has a number of weapons for sale, most of which seems imported, but also a fair few Lantan made. Scimitars, spears, swords and daggers are the most common. There is also the Lantan clockwork crossbow, and kraken killer tridents; barbed and coated with contact poison, and yours for a special price, only today, of ten thousand gold pieces, the merchant says. When reminded about the clockwork crossbows, he picks one up, turns it over, pats it, and explains how it functions with wide gestures. "Pull the pin back here, put the bolts in the slot here, but not too many or you'll get it all in your face. Put the pin back. See? Simple, yes?" He demonstrates, pulling the pin back and putting in half a quiver of bolts. He points it at an archery target in the back of his stall, and pulls the trigger. With a rustle of metal and whirl of cogs, the bolts slam into the target. It's not very accurate, and the bolts are spread all over, some even missing, but they are stuck deep in the target. "Five thousand gold pieces, five thousand." he says, patting the crossbow. "Five hundred gold pieces for a large quiver of magnetic bolts. A thousand for explosive magnetic bolts. Can only use it with magnetic bolts, only magnetic bolts. Yes?" He gestures wildly. "I will consider the crossbow, but not for today. My thanks for your time, a steamy day to you." Ahmed would nod slightly, and meander through the streets… slowly making his way elsewhere...
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Post by DOT on Dec 21, 2015 21:17:06 GMT -5
Frederak the Younger says the large fishing net is a hundred gold pieces. The rusty sextant however, is three thousand gold pieces. While rusty, it is of a very fine design, and has been in his shop for a long time. The diving suit is ten thousand gold pieces. The Captain happily buys the net out of his own coin as he knows it will come in useful for adding fresh seafood to the supplies. He thanks Frederak and blesses him, sharing a bottle of his favorite Seafoam rum brought from Cormyr before he summons a sailor to the shop to help him get the large net aboard the Tethys.The Captain scours the list closely and agrees about the prices being sent to his ship, he returns to the Tethys by the waiting skiff with his net, in a very good mood to show the Quartermaster what's on offer.
Unsure of what happened to Kathy he sends a sailor over to the Tub to check up on her and bring a bottle of wine from his own stash as well as a small taste of the local fruits.
Ahmed would eventually make his way...to the Tethys by way of the Docks. "Where might I find Captain Blake." He would ask a crewman.
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Post by Defunct Fiddlesticks on Dec 22, 2015 3:50:29 GMT -5
"Valkur, of course, that's what I meant." Dinker stops writing and squints at them, stroking his moustache as he listens to Captain Blake. When the captain is done talking, Dinker makes a few notes on a paper which he puts in the pile of other papers, and flips through a few ledgers. He says that he normally wouldn't discuss other ship crews, but due to the recent pirate attacks and as thanks for Captain Blake's help with the shrine he will make an exception. "No, the names Walder and Snakes are not in here, not on any Amnian ship." he taps a finger in a ledger. "The Amnian galleon headed for Maztica is the Mithral Queen of the Westshore Company, and the one in the shipyard is the Glittering Swan of House Alibakkar. They both have warehouses here in Semport, and are our most prominent Amnian traders. There are also a few smaller ships of individual Amnian merchants." He licks his thumb and turns a page, rattling off a few names. "Captain Garmolkas 'Copperbeard' Tashmander, with his caravel the Drowning Siren, Voskar Mellkabbar of the Golden Redeemer carrack, and Sontos Tir'Kos of the Priceless, a small trade cog." He hops off his chair and walks over to the telescope, peering out at something outside. "I will investigate this further, and send word if I find something. I doubt House Alibakkar or the Westshore Company would be involved in piracy, as they have both lost ships to pirates. If there was nothing else, I have ships to inspect." Yarrick leaves the Captain to lead the conversation, merely chipping in to confirm details and minor points. Towards the end he pipes up.
"The half-orc called Walder. Said he'd be in the Rusty Cog if I wanted to see 'im, or play a game o' cards. Reckon it might be worth takin' a few of the lads over to find out what e's got to say fer 'imself Captain? Unless Master Dinker himself wants the authorities to deal wi' it." "One moment" The Captain's head goes up at one of the names the Dockmaster says, his eyes narrowing "Voskar Mellkabbar of the Golden Redeemer carrack? Any relation to Captain Rolessa Mellkabbar, of the accursed Black Jewel? We ran into her on the way here."
He nods to Yarrick "I am keen to speak to each of these Captains, Voskar Mellkabbar in particular...to assess their vessels and if they pose a threat to us. Let us wait to hear what the Dockmaster has to say first" All the same, the Captain's expression to Yarrick would seem agreeable.
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Post by Defunct Fiddlesticks on Dec 22, 2015 3:54:43 GMT -5
Ahmed would eventually make his way...to the Tethys by way of the Docks. "Where might I find Captain Blake." He would ask a crewman. "Captain's gone ashore sir" The crewman would say. "Gone to see the Dockmaster, he has."
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Post by fisheyes on Dec 22, 2015 7:32:03 GMT -5
"One moment" The Captain's head goes up at one of the names the Dockmaster says, his eyes narrowing "Voskar Mellkabbar of the Golden Redeemer carrack? Any relation to Captain Rolessa Mellkabbar, of the accursed Black Jewel? We ran into her on the way here."
He nods to Yarrick "I am keen to speak to each of these Captains, Voskar Mellkabbar in particular...to assess their vessels and if they pose a threat to us. Let us wait to hear what the Dockmaster has to say first" All the same, the Captain's expression to Yarrick would seem agreeable. The Dockmaster narrows his eyes, and cogs seems to turn behind his eyes as he pieces things together. Then he laughs and wipes his eyes. "You take me for a fool, do you? You met the Black Jewel? I don't believe in ghost stories, I'm sure it's just a coincidence. Voskar Mellkabbar is an honest merchant from Athkatla. I bought this very telescope from him a year ago." His expression turns more serious, more irritated. "I cannot send any guards at this moment, but I will look into it as I said. If you want to go speak to these captains and look for Walder, please do. I am quite busy as you can see, and you've taken enough of my time with your fairytales." He turns back to his desk, adjusts his monocle once more, and begins sorting through a pile of papers. "Good steam to you."
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Post by Defunct Fiddlesticks on Dec 22, 2015 7:52:37 GMT -5
"One moment" The Captain's head goes up at one of the names the Dockmaster says, his eyes narrowing "Voskar Mellkabbar of the Golden Redeemer carrack? Any relation to Captain Rolessa Mellkabbar, of the accursed Black Jewel? We ran into her on the way here."
He nods to Yarrick "I am keen to speak to each of these Captains, Voskar Mellkabbar in particular...to assess their vessels and if they pose a threat to us. Let us wait to hear what the Dockmaster has to say first" All the same, the Captain's expression to Yarrick would seem agreeable. The Dockmaster narrows his eyes, and cogs seems to turn behind his eyes as he pieces things together. Then he laughs and wipes his eyes. "You take me for a fool, do you? You met the Black Jewel? I don't believe in ghost stories, I'm sure it's just a coincidence. Voskar Mellkabbar is an honest merchant from Athkatla. I bought this very telescope from him a year ago." His expression turns more serious, more irritated. "I cannot send any guards at this moment, but I will look into it as I said. If you want to go speak to these captains and look for Walder, please do. I am quite busy as you can see, and you've taken enough of my time with your fairytales." He turns back to his desk, adjusts his monocle once more, and begins sorting through a pile of papers. "Good steam to you." The Captain says smoothly "I did not believe that tale myself until I saw it with my own eyes...but as you wish, good Dockmaster, on behalf of the Tethys crew I thank you and express my appreciation for you looking into our problem and await your prompt findings, please send for me if you discover anything. We shall find these Captains in the meantime and assess the situation."
The Captain looks meaningfully at Yarrick and gives him a nod."Come Mister Yarrick, let us get to it. Good steam to you, Dockmaster." He tips his hat again as they leave and mutters lowly to Yarrick "Rusty Cog, first...I want to know who their Captain is. I've not forgotten that flappin' bit of evidence on the Tub either...we'll pick up some hands on the way."
They head off in search of the inn.
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Post by fisheyes on Dec 22, 2015 8:48:12 GMT -5
The Captain says smoothly "I did not believe that tale myself until I saw it with my own eyes...but as you wish, good Dockmaster, on behalf of the Tethys crew I thank you and express my appreciation for you looking into our problem and await your prompt findings, please send for me if you discover anything. We shall find these Captains in the meantime and assess the situation."
The Captain looks meaningfully at Yarrick and gives him a nod."Come Mister Yarrick, let us get to it. Good steam to you, Dockmaster." He tips his hat again as they leave and mutters lowly to Yarrick "Rusty Cog, first...I want to know who their Captain is. I've not forgotten that flappin' bit of evidence on the Tub either...we'll pick up some hands on the way."
They head off in search of the inn.
The Rusty Cog Inn and Tavern is located along the boardwalk and has a large rusty cog above its door. It is a simple building with ivy-covered white stone walls and clay tiles for roof, with many tables outside where sailors and guests from both Old and New Semport enjoy steamed shrimps and squid soup. There are a fair few guests here today, and two large horse carriages stands outside. Inside, the Rusty Cog is simple and cosy, with wax candles in bottles on small tables. Walder is nowhere to be seen, and neither is Snakes or any robed figures. A portly woman by the name of Arizolda Delladefleour welcomes them and introduces herself as the owner while simultaneously supervising the two wenches hurrying between guests. Arizolda has tanned skin, dark curly hair tied in a fancy knot, and purple eyeshadow. She wears a blue gown, and a bronze cog hanging in a chain around her thick neck. "Drink? Room? We're all out of shrimps I'm afraid, but we do have vacant rooms." she says, smiling widely, her large green eyes sizing up her guests. She shouts at the tavern wenches, and gestures for them to hurry up. "How can Arizolda help?"
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Post by Defunct Fiddlesticks on Dec 22, 2015 10:12:35 GMT -5
The Rusty Cog Inn and Tavern is located along the boardwalk and has a large rusty cog above its door. It is a simple building with ivy-covered white stone walls and clay tiles for roof, with many tables outside where sailors and guests from both Old and New Semport enjoy steamed shrimps and squid soup. There are a fair few guests here today, and two large horse carriages stands outside. Inside, the Rusty Cog is simple and cosy, with wax candles in bottles on small tables. Walder is nowhere to be seen, and neither is Snakes or any robed figures. A portly woman by the name of Arizolda Delladefleour welcomes them and introduces herself as the owner while she simultaneously supervises the two wenches hurrying between guests. Arizolda has tanned skin, dark curly hair tied in a fancy knot, and purple eyeshadow. She wears a blue gown, and a bronze cog hanging in a chain around her thick neck. "Drink? Room? We're all out of shrimps I'm afraid, but we do have vacant rooms." she says, smiling widely, her large green eyes sizing up her guests. She shouts at the tavern wenches, and gestures for them to hurry up. "How can Arizolda help?" "A thousand blessings upon your fine establishment, dear lady, much better class of inn than the Squeaky Wheel eh, lad?" The Captain nods to his crewman before elegantly doffing his hat to her. "Drink for certain and some of the fine squid soup I keep hearing so much about if the shrimp is not available...we're hungry as starving sharks...and perhaps some pleasant local gossip? I'm very interested in ships currently in port, extremely interested." His deep-blue eyes twinkle at her "Particularly any Amnian ones and their captains - my competition, you know." He winks." Any interesting news going around a well-connected lady like yourself would have heard? Betting you get some officers in here."
The Zakharan slides 150 gold over the counter.
//sending a roll.
lucesi When she is not in earshot, he murmurs to Yarrick "It occurred to me the Squeaky Wheel is going to know your face, we will try there next if this inn bears no fruit, but if I go in there with you at my side those two - if they are there - will spot you soon as we set foot in the door. We may have a fight on our hands and I'd rather not warn the bastards we're coming. Eat your soup, pour on the charm with the wenches - these girls know who comes and goes, if the good lady knows not who we're looking for then maybe one of them does."
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Post by fisheyes on Dec 22, 2015 13:15:14 GMT -5
"A thousand blessings upon your fine establishment, dear lady, much better class of inn than the Squeaky Wheel eh, lad?" The Captain nods to his crewman before elegantly doffing his hat to her. "Drink for certain and some of the fine squid soup I keep hearing so much about if the shrimp is not available...we're hungry as starving sharks...and perhaps some pleasant local gossip? I'm very interested in ships currently in port, extremely interested." His deep-blue eyes twinkle at her "Particularly any Amnian ones and their captains - my competition, you know." He winks." Any interesting news going around a well-connected lady like yourself would have heard? Betting you get some officers in here."
The Zakharan slides 150 gold over the counter.
//sending a roll.
lucesi When she is not in earshot, he murmurs to Yarrick "It occurred to me the Squeaky Wheel is going to know your face, we will try there next if this inn bears no fruit, but if I go in there with you at my side those two - if they are there - will spot you soon as we set foot in the door. We may have a fight on our hands and I'd rather not warn the bastards we're coming. Eat your soup, pour on the charm with the wenches - these girls know who comes and goes, if the good lady knows not who we're looking for then maybe one of them does."
Arizolda claps her hands and calls for a wench, directing her with orders in Lantanese like the captain of her own ship. A little while later, the tavern wench serves hot squid soup with lemon and strong foreign spices, crispy garlic bread sprinkled with olive oil and thyme, and tall tankards of dark foamy ale. Arizolda is more than happy to talk, especially to such generous and charming gentlemen. The gossip floods out like from a broken dam, and sprawls like a starfish. After two hours with much hand waving, and a glass of wine herself, Arizolda has revealed that Shyroch 'Whalekiller' SeKolb, owner of the tavern and gambling hall Whalekiller's Dice Den, recently lost a large bet to Captain Herion Tusk of the Westshore's Mithral Queen, but won a bet against the Amnian captain Garmolkas 'Copperbeard' Tashmander. The alchemist Zerok has been arguing with Dockmaster SeBelbork several times, apparently over a bardess by the name of Olvig the Cat Singer, who makes the most unique music. They were making such a disturbance that even old Madame Ma'saze came out of her shop, hitting them with SeBelbork's own cane, and told them they would bring doom upon themselves if they didn't stop immediately. Lord Mayor Veserac SeLongrish has been taken strong measures to fight the recent wave of piracy, such as doubling the guards in certain districts, and setting examples with public sunbeam executions and taking a large loan from Whalekiller to fund the construction of new sun lens towers along the coast. Watchmaster Prisk Angalstrand has not been happy with the Lord Mayor's methods, warning that they might provoke acts of revenge and more violence, or create a false sense of security. More guards in New Semport and the Palace District won't protect any ships at sea, and just take away guards where they might be needed. It's just politics he says, to show the rich merchants that something is being done. And then there was that umbrella merchant who tried to sell adamantine umbrellas, how ridiculous, and a foreign priest of Mystra who drank liquids from the Temple of Gond and turned into a bronze machine that could produce four flavours of fruit juice. "Stranger things have happened." says Arizolda and shouts at a wench to not linger with Yarrick. Arizolda remembers what Blake was most interested in, and steers the conversation back to Amnian captains and ships. The handsome gentleman sitting outside eating shrimps with the calishite bodyguard is Voskar Mellkabbar, captain of the Golden Redeemer, who recently sold a large supply of copper to the Lord Mayor. Captain Kerrod Windsmith of the Glittering Swan has stayed at the Siren's Abode for days now, lost in a mushroom powder stupor, while his ship is being repaired by Tiskas Valentos. Speaking of Tiskas, he burned down a Westshore warehouse last month in an experiment with his horrible cannons, and owes them a great debt. Dockmaster SeBelbork and Watchmaster Angalstrand were furious with him, and threatened to have the shipyard closed and weapons confiscated if there were any more accidents. Captain Garmolkas 'Copperbeard' Tashmander lost a shipload of Chultan ivory to pirates recently, his caravel half-sunk, and now spends his days drinking and gambling away his last coins at Whalekiller's. The Mithral Queen's captain, Herion Tusk, is a skinny fellow with a taste for gambling, and betting on armoured crab fights. There has also been rumours of undead pirates, but Arizolda dismisses such stories for drunken nonsense. She rambles on and on, some rumours more relevant than others. She only pauses to take gulps of wine, shout orders, or welcome new guests, turning on the charm as quickly as she can ramble gossip. She does recall an ugly half-beast with a nose ring and a scrawny woman with sea serpents on her face. "They came here to eat just the other day, played cards and drank for hours. Then they left, wanted to go somewhere quiet." She shrugs, and takes a gulp of wine. "Said they'd come back, but I haven't seen them since. They be friends of yours?"
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Post by timenewton on Dec 22, 2015 13:43:36 GMT -5
*Rumus comes up to the nearest in charge after doing a check over of The Tub, Ahmed.*Well what me suppose be doin? Standin ere with de ship er goin bout wit ye since Licios be gone. Ye have ta tell me where ye wants me… Otherwise me just gonna stay near de ship since I be hired as a guard.
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Post by lucesi on Dec 22, 2015 19:50:37 GMT -5
Yarrick smiles and nods at the serving wenches as their duties bring him near their table, waiting for moments when Arizolda is otherwise engaged.
Engaging in stories of his exploits at sea(with the healthy exaggeration of an experienced seaman) he would eventually ask one of the wenches, should he get the chance:
"So I'm looking fer me pals, ones a half-orc, ugly fella with a nose ring. T'other ones a lass wi' lots of Snake tattoos. Ye seen 'em about round 'ere or by any o' the ships?"
He would casually pat his coin purse as he did so.
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Post by DOT on Dec 22, 2015 20:15:58 GMT -5
Ahmed would eventually make his way...to the Tethys by way of the Docks. "Where might I find Captain Blake." He would ask a crewman. "Captain's gone ashore sir" The crewman would say. "Gone to see the Dockmaster, he has."
Nodding briefly to the crewman, Ahmed would make way to The Docks in search of Captain Blake... momentarily pausing at the crowded seafood eatery.
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Post by purgatori69 on Dec 22, 2015 20:45:49 GMT -5
*Alexandria would go to see how Kathy is holding up and spend time with her* "Hope that bird isn't giving you to much trouble dear."
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Post by purgatori69 on Dec 22, 2015 20:51:04 GMT -5
*Alexial would spend all her time in the docks distract inquiring about exotic items of value merchants are seeking to acquire.* She asks few of the merchants "Is there an alchemist or perhaps an apothecary within the docks or one of the distracts here?" *She would be inquiring to alchemist or apothecary for acquire rare or exotic poisons if there happens to be either*
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Post by mkable on Dec 22, 2015 22:07:10 GMT -5
Leaving the ship Dain has changed into his 'adventuring gear' (leathers, cloak and pack) though he is armed lightly with two single edged shortswords on his hips.
He tours the dock district, visiting the offices of the trading companies and the shipwright yards. He inquires about travellers to Maztica, looking for information on that strange land, and the people and creatures in it.
He will spread some gold around if it seems likely to help. Unless given information that will take him elsewhere he ends his time at the most popular tavern where he will make the same inquiries, buying information with drinks.
Dain is aging, the latter time of his life spent tracking criminals. He is used to 'seedier' areas, keeping a keen eye around himself.
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Post by Defunct Fiddlesticks on Dec 23, 2015 4:42:38 GMT -5
After two hours with much hand waving, and a glass of wine herself, Arizolda has revealed that Shyroch 'Whalekiller' SeKolb, owner of the tavern and gambling hall Whalekiller's Dice Den, recently lost a large bet to Captain Herion Tusk of the Westshore's Mithral Queen, but won a bet against the Amnian captain Garmolkas 'Copperbeard' Tashmander. The alchemist Zerok has been arguing with Dockmaster SeBelbork several times, apparently over a bardess by the name of Olvig the Cat Singer, who makes the most unique music. They were making such a disturbance that even old Madame Ma'saze came out of her shop, hitting them with SeBelbork's own cane, and told them they would bring doom upon themselves if they didn't stop immediately. Lord Mayor Veserac SeLongrish has been taken strong measures to fight the recent wave of piracy, such as doubling the guards in certain districts, and setting examples with public sunbeam executions and taking a large loan from Whalekiller to fund the construction of new sun lens towers along the coast. Watchmaster Prisk Angalstrand has not been happy with the Lord Mayor's methods, warning that they might provoke acts of revenge and more violence, or create a false sense of security. More guards in New Semport and the Palace District won't protect any ships at sea, and just take away guards where they might be needed. It's just politics he says, to show the rich merchants that something is being done. And then there was that umbrella merchant who tried to sell adamantine umbrellas, how ridiculous, and a foreign priest of Mystra who drank liquids from the Temple of Gond and turned into a bronze machine that could produce four flavours of fruit juice. "Stranger things have happened." says Arizolda and shouts at a wench to not linger with Yarrick. The Captain notes names and relationships keenly, with a smile. He is not partaking of too much wine himself and seems relaxed, listening to her gossip with an interested, attentive air."Hard times we live in, Mistress." The Captain nods, noting the Mellkabbar name he looks towards the dining Captain and tips his hat in greeting to a fellow sailor. "So many owing so much to so few, many must be desperate for coin to pay off all these debts.""Acquaintances of my crewman, I believe, he played cards against some fitting that description - he's looking for them to arrange a rematch, do you recall which ship they're with?" The Captain gives her a charming smile and pours her another glass. "Far be it from me to tell him not to gamble, folks and their money are soon parted in such a game but my crew work hard and play hard, you know how it is."
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Post by offduty on Dec 23, 2015 10:42:39 GMT -5
Seeing Alexandria boarding the ship, Kathy runs to her. The first night that bird drove me crazy. After it bit me I cast control undead on it. Now it's quiet at least. All that silly bird squawks about is sinking ships. Taking Alex to her room, she sits on the corner of the bed. The dark circles under her eyes tells that the young mage hasn't been sleeping. A stack of books sits on the floor. Half a bottle of wine sitting on the night stand, along with various fruits. She pours each of them a glass, and offers Alex some fruit. Captain Blake sent me over the wine and fruit. How has things been going on board his ship? You enjoying your trip? Wraps her arms around Alex, hugging her tightly. I've missed you. She looks up at the picture she hung on the wall. I miss him too. I should of gone with him, but I wanted to make sure this damn bird was safe. This is the second time I've had to ensure his safety. I think when we return home I'm going to take the three of us on a trip. A nice warm sunny beach where we can relax sounds good. Perhaps Captain Blake knows of a beautiful place we could go? Tell me all about your trip so far. They keeping you busy?
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Post by fisheyes on Dec 23, 2015 11:22:38 GMT -5
Yarrick smiles and nods at the serving wenches as their duties bring him near their table, waiting for moments when Arizolda is otherwise engaged.
Engaging in stories of his exploits at sea(with the healthy exaggeration of an experienced seaman) he would eventually ask one of the wenches, should he get the chance:
"So I'm looking fer me pals, ones a half-orc, ugly fella with a nose ring. T'other ones a lass wi' lots of Snake tattoos. Ye seen 'em about round 'ere or by any o' the ships?"
He would casually pat his coin purse as he did so. The tavern wench shakes her head. "Ain't seen 'em since last mornin'. Went to Old Semport, me thinks." She hurries off as she gets a stern look from Arizolda, but looks back over her shoulder, winking. Nodding briefly to the crewman, Ahmed would make way to The Docks in search of Captain Blake... momentarily pausing at the crowded seafood eatery.
On his way to the Docks, Ahmed gets the feeling he's being followed. When walking through the alleys between New Semport and the Docks, a robed figure seems to be watching him, but is eventually lost in the crowd. Ahmed recalls seeing a similar robed figure in New Semport. As Ahmed pauses at the seafood eatery with a large cog above it's door, he spots Captain Blake and Yarrick inside. They seem to be talking with a portly woman in a blue dress. *Alexial would spend all her time in the docks distract inquiring about exotic items of value merchants are seeking to acquire.* She asks few of the merchants "Is there an alchemist or perhaps an apothecary within the docks or one of the distracts here?" *She would be inquiring to alchemist or apothecary for acquire rare or exotic poisons if there happens to be either* Going about the docks, Alexial learns that the Westshore Trading Company is seeking exotic wares in Maztica, and that the SeLongrish Enterprises is Semport's largest Lantan company, and is run by the Lord Mayor's father Sambrac SeLongrish. The company seeks rare metals, crystals and gemstones, presumably for their sun mirror technology. The captain of the Golden Redeemer is always on the look out for exotic goods, but has recently finished business with the Lord Mayor, and is not known to share his plans in advance. House Alibakkar are seeking ivory, magical components, and gold. Several local merchants are looking for gemstones, metals, spices, coffee and cocoa. A fishmonger outside the Siren's Abode points the way to Zerok's Wondrous Alchemical Elixirs, where legal poisons can be bought, and perhaps more rare substances. He also notes that maybe Madame Ma'saze just a few doors away from Zerok may also have some tinctures and brews. Leaving the ship Dain has changed into his 'adventuring gear' (leathers, cloak and pack) though he is armed lightly with two single edged shortswords on his hips.
He tours the dock district, visiting the offices of the trading companies and the shipwright yards. He inquires about travellers to Maztica, looking for information on that strange land, and the people and creatures in it.
He will spread some gold around if it seems likely to help. Unless given information that will take him elsewhere he ends his time at the most popular tavern where he will make the same inquiries, buying information with drinks.
Dain is aging, the latter time of his life spent tracking criminals. He is used to 'seedier' areas, keeping a keen eye around himself.
Among the trading companies, Dain hear tales of Maztica's vast savannah's where spotted cats prowl, hot deserts where dwarves and dog-people feast on intruders, and of jungles so dark and deep, that many who set foot within them never return, having become absorbed by the trees themselves. Those few who do come back are forever changed, and tell stories of ancient ruins full of cursed gold and cat-people known as the tabaxi. There are orcs, ogres, and displacer beasts too, all as terrible or worse than their eastern cousins. Markas Velantos, an old squint-eyed sailor with a scraggly beard, and pipe in mouth says he was there with Cordell himself, when they discovered the 'New World' almost twenty years ago. Markas and a few of his crew mates became lost from the rest of the expedition, and wandered the lands for months, losing one friend after the other. Eventually he managed to return home, and he wish he had never gone there in the first place. He says the natives are mostly primitive barbarians, but yet some have built fantastic stone cities the likes of no one in Faerûn has ever seen. Stepped pyramid temples, hanging gardens, observatories and ball court arenas where strange games of life and death are played. They worship evil gods that ask for blood sacrifices upon obsidian altars, the gods granting their priests spells that can reach across mountains and seas. The warriors are vicious and fearless, and wear jaguar skins and eagle feathers. "The black robed priests of Zaltec, their spiky hair dripping with blood... That's when I knew I had seen enough. All the gold in the world wasn't worth it anymore, and I just wanted to go home." the old sailor says, puffing on his pipe. "Seein' that skull-clad fiend of a priest dig his teeth into the heart of me mate..." He shakes his head. "The heart eaters will forever haunt me." He puffs on his pipe, and resumes mending a fishnet. "Maztica... It is beautiful too, and I've heard there are kinder gods, but I didn't see any. There is great wealth, but is it worth it? Ye don't need to look so far to find treasure and beauty." He smiles, his eyes glazing over. "There was one thing though... After twenty days of rain, we saw something in the jungle. Like a rainbow, a winged serpent of magic and beauty..." He trails off, and tires of this talk, saying he must get back to work. In the large Westshore Trading Company office, there are stuffed animals; spotted cats with teeth like kukris, and parrots in all colours, with large beaks, and powerful talons. From the ceiling hangs an eagle with the wingspan the length of a rowboat. Feathered masks and painted skulls hang on the walls alongside obsidian daggers and arrows coated with dried frog venom. Locked behind iron bars is a gold mask set with sapphires and emeralds. The Rusty Cog seems to be the most popular tavern in the docks, and when Dain gets there, he can see Ahmed, Neckan and Yarrick. "Acquaintances of my crewman, I believe, he played cards against some fitting that description - he's looking for them to arrange a rematch, do you recall which ship they're with?" The Captain gives her a charming smile and pours her another glass. "Far be it from me to tell him not to gamble, folks and their money are soon parted in such a game but my crew work hard and play hard, you know how it is."
Arizolda thinks for a moment, but then shakes her head. "Oh, I know about gambling and folks, me sons do it all the time. But I'm sorry, darling, your acquintances didn't mention a ship. I told they might be interested in Whalekiller's Dice Den, but they didn't seem interested. Too many sharks there, they said, which I guess is true." She chuckles a little.
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Post by timenewton on Dec 23, 2015 11:37:28 GMT -5
*rumus with no reply from the next in charge, loads his pack up makes sure its secure and tightens his armor. He makes his way off the ship to the best in town weapon smith* Hey dere me's just browsin ye scimitars...
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Post by Grimnir Gurnison on Dec 23, 2015 11:46:02 GMT -5
Gardrak drafts a letter to Lord Mayor Veserac SeLongrish and sends it to his office.
PM sent
Then he leaves the ship looks about for metal merchants nearby browsing wares as he does so.
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