The Silent Tide - Continuation

[Geldar]

Perceiving herself called-out before the assembly, Faunra just sits quietly in her seat. She moves little other than to smirk, but does manage to give an affirming nod to Belros. She smiles slightly, suddenly overcome with an ironic sense of pride in her incidental ability to garner such grand attention. If only the entitled youngsters at the University would engage my words half as much.

Good friends, I certainly don’t mean to incur an additional mission on all of us related to books. And to be clear, I’ve no intention of leaving this group in that regard. Apologies if my words were construed any other way. Captain, suffice to say there is perhaps a plethora of knowledge in the aforementioned, quasi-library; I’ve explained that, and I invite you to consider it. More immediately, as has been mentioned, is the matter of this ‘Nessian.’ If we’re right, he has a connection to the insurgency that should not be ignored.

She waits a bit longer until the discussion ends, and eventually returns quietly to her room to ready herself for yet another exciting day.

[Storm]

Hestrem quickly snaps his neck left and his beady eyes loom at Reyd."Oh is that so! There's no hiding the fact lad. The War Hounders are an up and coming Thieves Guild mostly comprised of a collection of wealthy and affluent merchants called the Consortium. They hired Nessian and his War Hounders cause their expendable and little is known about them. I think it's safe to say that Gill wanted services and payment from them, that's what all the hub bub was about. Am I correct in saying this? If what you say is true, Gill found a buyer of his services in such a lowly and scurvious race of them aquatic folk. I can believe the sell out would trade in his own birthright for the services of coin and land. Seems to me Rogue, world is getting worse and it's almost a called shot. So who is this John III? Anybody have a clue on how he has ties with Gill?"

"Skurvin, the War Hounders are a threat and the likes of them could very well be part of the catalyst in up rooting Absalom from it's foundation. I'd say maybe at some level they are not. The very likes of your planar friend Summoner easily frightened them. Is that so? Seems to me they are smart enough to pick their battles. Doesn't take much to set one off. A sharp dagger in the back is as easily dangerous as a earned death on the battlefield Noble. Except there is something more sinister about the prior. Not being able to know death as being inevitable is cheated that moment of resolve, composure and thought. I would tread equally careful with the Hounders as well as any others you confront on your endeavors. I know you care little with so much power Skurvin but even the mightiest warrior I seen felled cause of a small stone stone to the noggin."

A pause for a moment to let the Captains words sink in. Some may heed and some maybe brash but at least all were willing to hear the Adril's words. Then Faunra speaks and breaks the silence. A slight hand raised from the studious and articulate mage, she addresses the body with a polite representation and account of the resources at the old library located near the border of the Docks. "Aye missy! If you want to collect a few workers and scribes, they will draw cart and wagon to the location and retrieve all books and tomes. The wealth is historic and each and everyone of you will earn rewards and prestige for such a thoughtful attempt at restoring Absalom to it's wonder among the Inner Sea. We will place the new library in the Foreign Quarter. Everyone from Absalom knows the Foreign Quarter is a district which houses the people not known for wealth or power. We will build a new building to house this library so that even the Ivy and Petal district will be envious of this acquisition. Of the matter with Nessian, he will be dealt with my dear!" As the man blushes and his face turns red.

Turning his attention to Belros and Pogar's discussion,"It fine that you agree with them Belros, you are trusted among the people and of the people of Torag! For this you are a protector and must accompany Faunra and Pogar to the library. This will ensure the protection of the books, each other and the workers. Above all else, please protect the people. I implore you to their safety and without the aid of all of your weapon arm and spell hand, these dark times bode a lingering evil that is infesting like a caustic wound. I want answers and I want you take heed that there maybe powerful men and woman controlling factions and the pot is about to boil over."

Hestrem lets you finish Morton and then continues after your question. "Well how you proceed is all on you. You can deceive them the best way you know how to get answers which is a plan or you can power house your way through the whole thing which could land you some very influential enemies. I think the key is not showing your full hand. If this means staving your hand to get something then do it. Don't be afraid to be diplomatic at times if the situation calls for it. If they plain do not want to hear what you have to say then by all means fight to the bitter end. Either way, I know you'll find answers. I trust in you. Each of you. Now Nessian is said have a location near the Harbor Master. The Ship Yards is your next location! Nessian has ties with Lord Vendikon of House Deranzen. It is a local Chellish House that harbors the Cheliaxian naval ship called Hydra Fang. The location is unknown but the Harbor Master receives quite the tax and crest for offering a shipping lane to him."

[coldmug]

Reyd listens intently to the discussion as he savours the tart apple. As Hestrem starts to speak he listens but also tries Good idea Belros, let's see if I roll better.

Dice Sense Motive:

1d20+6

(19)+6

Total = 25

to judge his motives. Reyd is not completely sure of this man, and would not like to end up facing a fierce dragon because Hestrem sent him on an errand of some sort.

So we can either go visit Gill or this Nessian character. Either way, I think diplomacy is a better option than swords. Looking up at Skuvin, It would be best if you could cover Kria's wings with a cloak perhaps,... we wouldn't want to panic the locals and bring the guard upon us.

[Togot]

"I always cover Kria up when we are out in public, at least until I want her to draw attention. I also agree that diplomacy should always be the first option."

[Geldar]

Right, then. Seems teams were being assigned, and Captain meant business. Or, something.

Thank you, Captain Hestrem. I shall confer with my associates and we will speak with you shortly again if that is okay. Just before returning silently to her room, Faunra catches up with Pogar and Belros.

Well, it seems we three have been detailed to spearheading the library affair. I look forward to working again with both of you. Allow me to gather my things from my bunk, and I'll be right back.

ooc Faunra leaves for a brief period, gathers her belongings and returns. Just putting that part in for continuity's sake, tying in her exit at the end of my previous post.

The elf returns in short order. Positioning herself with the other two-thirds of her trio, Faunra inquires about their new assignment.

Captain, what resources are currently available with regards to clearing-out the old library, transports and so forth? Are carts, wagons, scribes and general workers available, or do you need us to actually go forth and retain those? If this is something we must endeavor, can you recommend a company we can recruit those resources from, and also then would be the matter putting together a budget for operating expenses; paying the workers etc. Would my assistance be required in helping work-out the financial numbers, how much this'll cost and all like that?

To any watching, it was obvious the elf was excited to get started with her team.

[Storm]

Pausing again, the burly Fighter takes a sip of aged wine from a chalice as the grape liquid cascades down his kept beard. Right Reyd. visiting Nessian will procure you more answers. Maybe more than one but surely it will lead you to find out what is so damn important about this book.", as he looks confusingly at it, sifting through the pages trying to account for some sort of meaning of the archaic words and runes etched in there. Placing the book down, he begins to speak again. "Gill.....? I don't know about the likes of him. You say he met his fate in the waters didn't ya? If so, he was but a small piece in the puzzle. You got the answers from him and might I add the book!", then clumsily he raises both his arms in the air and knocks over his chalice. The wine begins to spill and spread towards the book. Befuddling the chalice to set it upright, he finally moves the Taldorian Codex before it is ruined from his mistake.

Diplomacy! Sure Noble, you can appreciate much the use of being anyway with a person or group of people with whatever motives you fancy. Some people are more appreciative having honest intentions or trying to intimidate them with harsh meanings. Whatever your fancy Wordsmith, I'm sure you would excel in leading some conversations with people that do not have your best intentions. I'll tell you my secret. It is in their eyes. You can almost read the souls of people with the look they have. It is an extension of their being. Sorry I am getting philosophical with you but if it were me, I would use my grandfathers warhammer and bash some skulls and take names later.

As Pogar, Belros and Faunra leave to prepare, it is noticed that just before you turn to leave, Adril Hestrem turns to the second in command of the Grand Lodge and the Decemvirates. His name Ambrus Valsin and he is a well muscled man as well but their is a spark of intelligence in his eyes. With a shaved mohawk and a tribal tattoo on one side of his head, the dangling gold ear hoops of his left ear and a leather wrist guard denoting his Venture status, marks him as quite the upstart. He takes Adrils words and snaps his fingers. A young squire comes to beck and call. He then leaves but as you return, the young boy with curly brown hair and a white robe marks has knowledge regarding your questions.

Once each of you have returned, Hestrem begins to speak." The information you seek is here but there is bad news. The scribes you need are tending to dutiful patronage at their local Temples. There is one who will accompany to value the worth of each book. He will help Faunra catalog all pertinent tomes and therefore research your find. The news gets even worse. We cannot afford workers to your cause. Ambrus tells me that even getting our benefactors to pay for a new library will be like pulling teeth. Very discomforting. I have even worse news. The Society is gearing up for the new library and has sent all wood crafters, masons, lifters and general workers to the Foreign Quarter. With the help of Thamivian.

The Adept walks in denoting his half elven features with a brown robe depicting earthen tones. It is tied at the waist by a gold silk corded rope. He has long white hair with dark black eyes. His hands are folded in the creases and he walks with a light step into the room. Tham is stoic and upright given from time spent with the Elves. Hestrem introduces him as he nods to all without a smile. His pale complexion is white almost ghostly in appearance and he waits for any introduction, mostly keeping his eyes on Faunra.

[Belros]

Belros listens quietly and takes in all the conversation. He furrows his brow a bit as he watches Hestrem heartily drinking his wine and the man's lack of manners and decorum. It seemed a bit too early for such hearty drinking; at least for anyone that wasn't a dwarf. As the wine nearly destroys the Codex, the cleric's heart stops for a moment before he sees it safe once again. He prays that Torag will protect the tome until they can uncover its secrets.

"You are right, Captain, we need to protect the folk of this fair city from the ill-conceived and deadly plans of many sides. To that, I am committed." The warrior-priest of Torag puts a fist to his heart and bows his head in acknowledgement.

Faunra asks some very important questions of Hestrem and Belros is impressed with her ability to lead such an endeavor but he is momentarily saddened at the disappointing news Hestrem leaves them with. Apparently they were to get little help for their efforts. He frowned at the thought of having to carry the books and other items while slogging through the mire of the Puddles again. At least it appeared this Tham would be able to help them identify what books would be of value and lighten their burden.

"Well met, Tham," Belros says with a bow of his head to the half-elf. "I am Belros Dhallen, priest of Torag. We are thankful to have your help in this matter."

Belros is glad that Porag will be assisting he and Faunra and Tham. The priest knew that he was not really suited to clandestine missions or pursuing deceptive conversations in seeking knowledge. He felt pretty sure that Porag didn't really feel comfortable in that regard either. He and the dwarf could make sure that Faunra was protected as she and Tham did their work.

"I am ready when you all are," Belros finally says with a nod to Faunra, Porag, and Tham. "Daylight is burning, hay in the barn, and all that," he says with a smile. He waits for his friends and is ready to depart once they are.

[doggius]

"Stone!" Pogar bellows unexpectedly. "Ye ougt ta be build'n it wi' stone, nae wi wood." he continues. His short outburst draws forth a memory from decades past. Long dark hallways illuminated by the black iron sconces lining the stone wall. Intricate stonework reveals the master craftmanship of the dwarven kingdom from whence he came. Massive door frames are etched with deeply carved dwarven runes that glow a soft silver hue, the magic of their clan set forth for protection.

Flecks of stone dust, so small they are unseen to the naked eye, coalesce into an almost mist-like quality that shadows the darkness the further along the hall one looks. Echos of hammer being put to steel, shaping the hot metal into artisan crafts as well as armor and weapons. A lingering heat from the fires of the furnaces fills the dimly lit halls and there is a background murmuring of voice of his peoples.

Such a memory draws himself deeper and deeper into his reflections, his eyes have a far away look to them. Slowly, the memories of his childhood, inevitably draw him to a time not so far removed. The background murmur turns to the sounds of heavily booted feet, thumping on the stone as the warriors rush from one breach to another. Mingling with the thumping steps are the cries of pain, the shouted orders and prayers. Steel clashes with steel, and soft clicks can be heard as shadowed forms seemingly step into reality to let loose tiny poison tipped darts from small hand crossbows.

The smell of humidity and stone melt into the coppery smell of spilled blood and the distinct stench of death. Alchemical fire pierces the nose and covers the runes, ruining their magical properties of protection, gives off a faint, unusual smell that is overwhelmed by the smell of burnt flesh. Bodies litter the halls of both friend and foe. As his minds eye drifts over the black bodies of the invading drow, it pauses at a familiar face, his father, twisted in the rage of his own demise. Bodies of hearty dwarfs, convulse on the ground, as the dark elven poisons run their course through the veins.

Clearing his throat quite gruffly, Pogar mutters "Um, yeah." His sunken eyes seem to glint slightly, as he sniffs and looks about. "So, me job's ta watch o'er tha lass, eh?"

[Togot]

Listening to heir commanding officer was always such a linguistic adventure. Skurvin wasn't sure if the man's maze of words was due to a lack of education, or one too many blows to the head. Probably both. He is pleased that he won't be dealing with the flaky elf or the socially inept dwarf for the day, and with a bonus to boot! The two lesser races, and the one who questioned me? That worked out better than I'd hoped.

To his own teammates, Skurvin offers his council. "When we meet with their leader, it would be unwise to mention the codex unless they do. We are only assuming that that is what they were after. No sense in giving them information for free. Our two groups had a run in, there were casualties on neither side, so they shouldn't be too angry with us. This is simply a meeting between two groups of professionals," though it pained Skurvin to describe a bunch of thugs with that word, "to touch base and establish where we stand with each other in order to avoid such problems in the future." Skurvin smiles. "While we learn just how much they know, and what they really want."

[Geldar]

Faunra was slightly late introducing herself to Thamivian while the duo of Belros and Pogar greeted the half-elf in a very expeditious manner. Actually, the elf wizard's mind had harkened back to cold winters. In those hard times, her father would trudge through many inches of snow and spend much time with shovel and spade. He would be tired after a long day's toil, and would be blessed to finally find time to relax with cold-brewed ale and warm-hearted friends.

In any case, Faunra returns Thamivian's kindly gaze with kind words. And I am Faunra Deltarn; well met.

She exchanged pleasantries a bit longer. Actually, "a bit" would be only little more than her typical impatience and overeagerness would allow. Indeed, she was excited to get underway; but like her associates, she was not looking forward to hand-carrying book after book after book from the old, run-down building where they'd bested the lizards.

When the now-four adventurers are gathered together, Faunra addresses the cleric of Torag. Regarding hauling of the tomes. Belros, I know you have a steed, and that Farstrider is a trusted companion. I wonder if we might purchase a cart, and affix it to Farstrider, that he might lighten our load? We might be able to load a good number of books at a time, at least enough to minimize our trips. I don't mean to presume that is okay though; how do you feel about it, and how might Farstrider feel about it? I will gladly ante-up the fifteen or so gold pieces for the cart myself. Another option might be for us to pay a wizard more spellbound than me to teleport a bunch of books en-masse, although that might be pricy indeed.

She waits for Belros to consider a cart for Farstrider to pull, before she continues her thoughts aloud. I would suggest we grab the books that seem of most value, load those and leave the rest for now. It's not as though the new library is ready to receive them anyway; if I understand correctly, the new library is still under construction. Most important, as I see it, is to protect the most important books among, perhaps, more trivial and novel ones. We could start with one load and see how it goes. I'll just need to look at the books once we're there, to know what we're dealing with.

Merrr. Satisfied that the Lodge offers asylum to no mice whatsoever, Amolas jumps into Faunra's arms. She strokes his furry back and issues her final current concern. In any case men, we need to be on-guard. Hestrem seemed to convey a sense of danger ahead. I'll have spells on my lips to stun, blind and daze multiple minions, if the rest of you can tend to more-prominent threats. We can discuss strategy however you like. I will defer further thoughts in that regard to our nods to Pogarprimary man at arms.

The elf wizard smiles and waits for her companions to discuss further. If appropriate, she can go shopping for a cart. Again, her thoughts return to her father in those hard winters. He sure did shovel a lot of snow.

 

Says hi to Tham.
Speaks to Belros, asks his thoughts on using Farstrider with a cart for precious books. If agreeable, Faunra will go buy a cart (SRD prices them at 15 gp).
Appeases her cat's need for attention.
Defers security matters to Pogar.

[Captain K]

Morton listens and nods along with what Skurvin is saying. He points his finger in acknowledgement.

"Yes indeed, Skurvin knows. To the docks, weapons in their sheaths, let's make our presence known at a tavern or other public area. Let's meet this 'Consortium' with open hands. We will go there under the guise of it being a clear-the-air meeting, an opportunity for a couple of - gangs, I suppose - to establish some mutual respect. Play your cards close.

I also suggest we take a carriage there. It will look good to anyone watching that we are not just dregs from the street, and besides, the weather is awful."

OOC We are PCs. Even with the change we had from our 3rd level purchases, we are significantly richer than most city commoners. What is the point in walking? In the Paizo published adventure, "In Service to Lore" which takes place in this city of Absalom, taxi carriages are 2cp per person. It is up to our DM whether he thinks that is too cheap (it might well be) but if there are taxis available, Morton is taking one. DMs are rule 1 however, and perhaps they just aren't available today...

[Belros]

Belros chuckles a bit at the thought of his war-trained companion pulling a common cart. Not wanting to offend Faunra though, who has no idea what has made him laugh he then nods his head. "We shall see how much he likes that idea. He might put up a bit of a fuss but I think I can convince him to pull the cart." Belros again smiles at the very thought of the steed pulling the cart but he knows that if he can convince him to put on the necessary gear to pull the cart that it would be more than capable of pulling it. It carries his large frame around and into battle all the time.

"I will go to the stables now and get him ready," he says to Pogar, Faunra, and Tham, taking his leave of the trio for now.

 

Belros will head to the stables and get Farstrider ready for the trip. He'll wait on the others there until they have secured a cart and then he'll get the animal hooked to it.

[Totentanzen]

Molrim chuckles as he puts a hand on morton's shoulder. "My friend I like your idea, we might as well save some energy before we get to the docks."

[Togot]

As his downsized group travels in comfort, Skurvin passes the time with conversation to get a better handle on his companions.

“Why don’t we play a mind game,” he says with a congenial smile. “Something to help hasten the trip, my mother had me do it all the time when I was young. I will put forth to you all a scenario, and you will tell me how you would resolve it.”

“You are on a mission with some new friends, people you’ve never worked with before. Along the way you discover that one of you may be a spy. Only you know this. What do you do?”

[Storm]

 

Out of Character Please be advised this post is to move the game forward so if there is anything related as a question directed at anyone or me, then silence from Adril Hestrem as he and all of you return to your duties.

Main Story - Reyd, Skuvin, Morton, Molrim & Naum Finishing up the central chamber, Hestrem returns to work, a cohesive band of adventurers ready to tackle the investigation at hand. Find Nessian and return with any information that could garner help from the Pathfinder Society. This information will greatly aid in finding reasons why the Taldorian Codex is so important to Gill. As stated, the Shipyards boast a conglomerate of shipping lanes, adequate business and vendors. Local rumor of the port area, is massed with a teeming hubris of navy men, wealthy business and also the few vagrants that riddle the area with criminal activity. Prostitution and Brothels are intermingled among the small shipyards as well as a inter mixed group of trading merchants from all over the world. Chelixian aristocrats vie for port authority against Andoran commoners. Networking Taldorian agents vie to infiltrate the folk of Absalom. Standing outside the Grand Lodge among the Foreign Quarter District, the heart of this district houses Skyreach a combined group of tall spires and buildings dedicated to Captains alike as well as housing the different factions of the Society,comprised beyond the open gate the carriages are flagged down by Skurvin and Morton who snap their fingers and a large black carriage with four horses trollops down the cobblestone road. To get where your going, it will take two hours to travel the four mile distance. The path is pretty straight forward. Going directly south through the Foreign Quarter and then hanging a left into the Docks District and then South again to get to the Shipping Lanes. The travel is met in initial silence as Skurvin's humor is not met well almost sarcastic in tone but none the less received . The view from the carriage shows proud Commoners milling about their business, tending to meat vendors selling stocks of beef, poultry, lamb, venison and fish. They are dressed in earthen tones much like Tham but with brown suspenders, dark brown caps, light and off white long sleeve shirts and grey slacks with dirty boots. Their hair is natural and unkempt and as the carriage passes a few shops. A cafe, homes littered by the dozen pass with each glance. The smell of forges and smoke burn as an old man sweeps in front of his shop, the carriage turns left heading into the Docks. Here the smell becomes more nautical. The smell of salt, Sea and brine meet your senses and the look of faces becomes more concern as people are more in a rush to get to their location. Water flooding is more evident in this District as the earthquake ten years prior has flooded from the Puddles and the back wash of the Inner Sea. In some areas it is worse than others and in some spots, their is only a sheen of water coating upon the cobblestone ground. The mortar and brick is made of different shades of stones. Some red, grey, brown and white are a consistent theme of main roads in Absalom. As you gain closer to the Shipping Lanes, the sound of faint bells toll in the distance, a lone Light Tower spans its light among the Sea to warn sailors of lurking land. The Carriage begins to stop, slowly recessing into a slower speed and then silence. Stepping from out of the carriage, you pay the total 14 copper pieces as the driver nods in assurance and gratitude. The sight of the Shipping Lanes is marked by four large and wide wooden docks, with two major ships. The Hydra Fang and an unknown Andoran Ship. There are a few small boats among the port, times for recreation are only for the rich and luxurious. Wayfarers and mixed races of men and woman from all over candidly take to the streets. This place is called Misery's Row. A place for the down trodden and ill out of luck. A Tavern called the Crimson Coin is directly south on the main strip connected to land. The Harbor Master Quarters is next to the Tavern. There is a dock stretching out from it. Then next to the Harbor Masters Quarter, there is a Inn called Nautica. This has a dock stretching out from it. On the other side of the three docks is a small floatsam or wooden dock of activity. There is even a small wooden crane used to load boxes an crates over seas. You are off the right dock, just within a long stretch of walking to the Tavern, Harbor Masters Quarters and Inn.

Side Adventure - Faunra, Pogar, Belros & Tham Each of you leave with the others, but separate in time to depart with Belros cart and steed. Pogar and Tham walk and Faunra is invited to ride the majestic horse with her feline companion Amolas present. The trip is met through the same path as the others have took. As they travel ahead of you, your see them clearly making quick progress towards their destination as your progress is much slower but more friendship and meeting old acquaintances in the streets. Word has spread that your part of being responsible for the Pathfinder Society starting up a new Library in the Foreign Quarter. They smile and greet you as your entourage passes by. They shake hands as your fame and prestige grows among the people. It is hard to say who are Secessionists these day. Active rebellion is not tolerated by the Grand Council and will be considered punishable by the strictest laws applicable. These folk have rights and they feel they are being systematically targeted for higher taxes and harsher penalties and laws. The Commoners feel that the Loyalists get better treatment because of their financial status and would like to see them treated just like they are. A basic belief but one that many differ in cause. Instead of taking the left like they do, you can faintly see them travel on a different path you continue South. As you back track, you find the same people in the same places. Begging for coin and trying to hustle their net before the evening starts. The building looks more impressive during the day light hours then the previous night. Even though the old sign is still weather worn, you wonder why this building was closed down in the first place. Lady Nel is in her usual spot as she approaches your gathering. With the cart and horse stopped, the door is opened by Tham who hurried enters the building to begin the process of researching the books. Nel asks where your Rouge friend is and smiles as she butts out a finished cigarette. She buds in your business once more and mentions something she didn't the previous night." "You know why they closed down that book place right? The Owners were spooked out by some underground dwellings in that there place. I'd say one of their siblings met his death by the touch of the undeath. Place is supposed to be haunted you know so keep an eye out?" Finishing some more small talk with Lady Nel, you find Tham inside browsing over several books, quickly scribing them on parchment for cataloging. He smiles and mentions that the find is quite impressive and starts listing some of the book titles in succession. "History of Absalom, perfect. Author Sigfreed Morieux." " "Life as a Commoner, year, 831 DR. Quite old and might I add the book is in great shape. There is also this one!"" As Tham begins to pull the book from the shelf, the bookcase collapses and a dark and dank corridor going downstairs opens up. He looks confused." Might I ask what this is about Mage?"