|
Post by littleork on Mar 27, 2020 9:31:24 GMT
The rutted track emerges from a wooded hillside, and you catch your first glimpse of Phandalin. The town consists of forty or fifty simple log buildings, some built on old fieldstone foundations. More old ruins — crumbling stone walls covered in ivy and briars — surround the newer houses and shops, showing how this must have been a much larger town in centuries past. Most of the newer buildings are set on the sides of the cart track, which widens into a muddy main street of sorts as it climbs toward a ruined manor house on a hillside at the east side of town.
As you approach, you see children playing on the town green and townsfolk tending to chores or running errands at shops. Many people look up as you approach, but all return to their business as you go by.
Sildar seems much more at ease.
“My friends,” he says, “let us secure lodgings. I’m told the local inn is very quaint.”
|
|
Jarovbees
Approved
Playing: Solstice (Paladin 6)/Umbrae (Sorcerer 1/Warlock 4)/Avren Wands (Rogue 2/Sorcerer 1)
Posts: 706
|
Post by Jarovbees on Mar 28, 2020 0:08:29 GMT
Avren, watching their back to be certain that there are absolutely no more goblins on their tail, finally began to relax as the town of Phandalin grew on the horizon. Her golden eyes shift from the woodlands to take in the details of the town, silently noting how it was but a shadow of its former self...and yet, there was life enough for it to count as a pleasant change of pace. The presence of civilization, such as it was, caused the half-elf to feel the weight of her weariness, now that the thrill of danger had passed. She nodded to Sildar, stifling a yawn.
"It's no North Ward, but it'll do. As long as there's a goblin-free place to rest my head, that's all I care about." Well, there were actually one or two more things on her mind aside from the immediate mission, but it could all wait after a good night's rest. She could still feel that last fight in her bones. And yet...it wasn't as bad as it could have been, not with the assistance from her companions. It was interesting, cooperating with people instead of competing with them, and even if she wasn't sure how much to trust them with, the fact that she could count on them to have her back in the heat of combat...well, it wasn't nothing. But she had no more energy to mull that over for tonight, and on the way to the inn she hoped for some mulled wine and a dreamless sleep.
|
|
|
Post by littleork on Mar 28, 2020 20:41:17 GMT
|
|
|
Post by littleork on Mar 28, 2020 20:51:48 GMT
As Lykus makes the transition from wilderness to civilization, his demeanor shifts subtly. Used to being the assumed ruffian, the foreign raider in town to cause trouble, he almost reverts to type - as if to appease the stereotype. He wears his scowl below his raised hood and strides through town with a confident swagger.
When you reach the inn, he kicks open the door dramatically and stares down anyone who would take offense.
-----------
In the center of town stands a large, newly built roadhouse of fieldstone and rough-hewn timbers. The common room is filled with locals nursing mugs of ale or cider, all of them eyeing you with curiosity.
Lykus looks around and finds a table where he can sit with his back to the corner and oversee the room.
At one end of the bar you see a man with slightly long, dirty blond hair sipping from a cup held in what looks like an arm made entirely of metal.
[The inn is the blue-roofed building on the eastern side of the clearing in the center of the town]
|
|
|
Post by 3personal5me on Mar 28, 2020 22:10:09 GMT
Anthony had traveled to Phandalin several days prior, after hearing rumors of a local alchemist who was studying rapid transmutation. Given that most of Anthonys technology relied on flash summoning and transmutation, it was only logical that he seek this person out. Unfortunately, he soon learned that the rumors were just that; rumors. Though disappointed, he did enjoy some time outside of the city. He could always search the surrounding wilderness for valuable chemicals and reagents, and he found that the quiet sometimes sparked a new idea in his head.
It was during this trip that he found himself staying at the local inn, renting a room for the week. His mornings were spent maintaining his armor, his afternoons spent exploring and searching the country side, and his evenings were spent enjoying the local cuisine. He was just finishing his drink when the door burst in. He tensed for a moment, before realizing there was no danger. While he felt safe with his armor on (sleek, form fitting, and hidden under his clothes), he was still wary of bandits and ruffians this far from Waterdeep. He sighed, and went back to his beverage. He thought he recognized a face or two, perhaps from Waterdeep.
Anyone this far out must be on a job.
He chewed his lip in thought, before finally deciding to introduce himself. Whatever it was they were working on, it would probably prove more beneficial (and entertaining) than examining another hundred mushrooms tomorrow. He gulped down the rest of his drink, set the glass on the counter, and swung himself off his stool. Dipping into his coin purse, he quickly withdrew some coin and tossed it on the counter. It was likely too much, but he found it was always helpful to be on the good side of those who provided food and shelter.
He crossed the room with quiet confidence, moving as if he had lived their his entire life. He gave everyone a warm smile as he approached the table.
"Anthony Allerton. I believe I have seen some of you around Waterdeep. What brings you out this far?"
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Spell Slots: 3/3 1st Level Spells
Spells Prepared:
Absorb Elements Cure Wounds Detect Magic Expeditious Retreat Identify Jump
Armorer Spells:
Magic Missile Shield
Infusions: Prosthetic Limb Goggles of Night
Armor Model: Infiltrator
-Lightning Launcher: A gemlike node appears on one of your armored fists or on the chest (your choice). It counts as a simple ranged weapon, with a normal range of 90 feet and a long range of 300 feet, and it deals 1d6 lightning damage on a hit. Once on each of your turns when you hit a creature with it, you can deal an extra 1d6 lightning damage to that target.
-Powered Steps: Your walking speed increases by 5 feet.
-Second Skin: The armor’s weight is negligible, and it becomes formfitting and wearable under clothing. If the armor normally imposes disadvantage on Dexterity (Stealth) checks, the power armor doesn’t.
|
|
|
Post by Calignious on Mar 28, 2020 22:12:54 GMT
Aronin stumbled through Phandalin without paying much attention to anything around him. There was only one thing on his mind, and that was several pitchers of nice cool ale. Of course, a nice scrub at a bathing house was probably a close second, followed by a bed. Regardless, the wizard cared little for his surroundings and only fantasized about his objective... getting drunk. Although he thought himself to be extremely eager to achieve this goal, it seemed like maybe it was Lykus who had him beat. The Githyanki kicked opened the door and scowled at everyone. Aronin quickly walked up to him and gave everyone a weak smile, then patted the man on the back.
"There there friend, you won't find anymore goblins in here!" He turned to face the whole group as they walked into the inn. "Friends, allow me to get the first round! What will you all be having?"
Spells Prepared: Absorb Elements Grease Tasha's Hideous Laughter Shield Misty Step Mirror Image
|
|
|
Post by littleork on Mar 28, 2020 22:35:01 GMT
Sildar frowns a little and shakes his head at Lykus before brightening at Aronin's offer.
"I'd love an ale, thank-you, Aronin. Best get one for grumpy over there too."
He goes to sit with Lykus as Anthony approaches. He smiles warmly at the newcomer, as though he's used to being recognised,
"I'm Sildar Hallwinter in town on business on behalf of The Lord's Alliance."
He shakes Anthony's hand and gestures to a seat, indicating he could join them.
|
|
Jarovbees
Approved
Playing: Solstice (Paladin 6)/Umbrae (Sorcerer 1/Warlock 4)/Avren Wands (Rogue 2/Sorcerer 1)
Posts: 706
|
Post by Jarovbees on Mar 29, 2020 4:05:49 GMT
Lykus' dramatic entrance met with a non-reaction from Avren, who was neither interested in scolding him nor egging him on. It wasn't the most diplomatic approach, but maybe it would prevent random people from trying to socialize with them. At the very least it would make some think twice about doing so, weeding out the riff-raff.
Plopping in a seat gracelessly, Avren stretched and nodded to Aronin. "If they have any spiced wine, I'll take it. Otherwise, an ale will do." That done, she paused to size up the newly-introduced Anthony. The half-elf crossed her arms, eyes as golden as the scales on her neck and arms narrowed slightly. The face wasn't familiar -not surprising, Waterdeep was a big city- but the name...the name seemed naggingly familiar, though she wasn't sure from here. Perhaps she'd heard it in passing, though couldn't pinpoint the context. At any rate, despite her weariness she wasn't going to allow herself to be completely devoid of manners.
"I'm Avren Wands." She spoke plainly, not seeing a reason to hide such information when her companions knew and she was quite frankly too tired to make something up. "We're here on paying work, of course. Same as you, right? Or is this your vacation getaway?" There was a note of light sarcasm as she gestured around the tavern.
|
|
|
Post by 3personal5me on Mar 29, 2020 4:44:12 GMT
Anthony shook Sildars hand, before slipping into the offered seat. "No, not my vacation getaway", he laughed. "That's miles from here. I'm visiting on a personal errand, though it has proven less than fruitful". His metal fingers drummed the table idly, each tap producing a dull thud. "It would seem the tales of the gifted alchemist were greatly exaggerated". He considered the group before him carefully. He had never encountered a gith that wasn't intent on attacking everyone in sight. And the half-elf with the scales... interesting. At least the human seemed straight forward. He had seen enough court wizards in his life to recognize the bearings of a wizard, regardless of how they carried themselves.
"Not to downplay anyones talents, but you look like you could use a little more metal on the front lines. And I could do with some excitement. This little town isn't the most engaging place".
|
|
|
Post by Calignious on Mar 29, 2020 19:20:42 GMT
Aronin was still preoccupied with completing his first objective in Phandalin, and thus didn't heed much attention to the newcomer speaking to the group. He went over the drink requests in his head, and excitedly strolled over to the bartender. On the way over, he barely overheard this Anthony's request to join their merry group on their quest. The wizard's eyes narrowed upon hearing this, but quietly continued on his way over to the bartender.
"Three pitchers of your coldest Ale, and some spiced wine if you have it!"
He mindlessly rummaged through his pockets to locate a coin purse, and started to count out what he had in his head. He then looked over to the bartender questioningly. "Also, how much would it cost for four of us to stay the night?" As he awaited a response, Aronin's thoughts wandered to Anthony's request. It started to seem a little suspicious to get singled out so quickly in this town and approached by someone asking to join them. What exactly did this Anthony know? Could he even be trusted? Could he also be after Gundren Rockseeker's map?
|
|
|
Post by littleork on Mar 29, 2020 22:02:18 GMT
The innkeeper, smiles warmly as you approach. " Morning stranger, welcome to the Stonehill Inn. The name's Toblen Stonehill. You can stay here the night for a gold piece each and the board's included. Pip or Elsa will bring 'em out to your table. Trilena's cooked up a rabbit stew if you're hungry. What brings you to town?"----------Sildar listens and nods as Anthony speaks, " If you're looking to help out, I, on behalf of the alliance would certainly extend an invitation to meet me in the morning to discuss business. I will establish my office in the Townmaster's Hall. That goes for the rest of you too. Unfortunately, these old bones are aching something fierce, I think I'm just going to rest up in my room for the rest of the day. If you'll excuse me?"Sildar stands up and books a room with the innkeeper before retreating upstairs. ---------- Lykus scoffs at the suggestion that they need help. " We just cleared out an entire cave complex full of goblinkin. I think we can handle ourselves. Who are you anyway?"Just then a teenage girl in a simple dress and mostly clean apron approaches the table with the drinks. "Hi there folks! Here's your drinks, the stew won't be but a moment. Ya'll having the stew ain't ya? You should, it's the best! Ooooh, goblin-slayers! Are you lot adventurers? You sure look like adventurers. You know, old Daran Edermath, the orchard keeper? He used to be an adventurer too!"
|
|
Jarovbees
Approved
Playing: Solstice (Paladin 6)/Umbrae (Sorcerer 1/Warlock 4)/Avren Wands (Rogue 2/Sorcerer 1)
Posts: 706
|
Post by Jarovbees on Mar 30, 2020 0:00:47 GMT
Avren raised her eyebrows at Anthony's expressed desire to join them but looked over to Sildar and shrugged. If he wanted to extend trust and take responsibility for it...well, that was his right. She didn't say anything against it, and indeed sighed when she looked over to Lykus. "Yeah, we cleared out the goblinkin--and almost died several times doing so. That last battle was cutting it really close, you know. Face it, all that would have been a lot easier with a fourth person. Let's not have our pride get in the way of survival. That reminds me, we'll need to see what potions we can find in town since we used all of--"
She glanced up and nodded to the server as their drinks arrived. "Stew's fine." A mental note was made to go easy on it, though. The last thing Avren wanted was to have a fitful sleep because her meal sank to her stomach like a stone. She shakes her head, not recognizing the name but filing it away for later. "Then he'd be a good person to ask about the area, wouldn't he? I hope he likes morning visitors."
|
|
|
Post by Calignious on Mar 30, 2020 2:55:18 GMT
The hospitable innkeeper's voice snapped Aronin out of his questioning thoughts. "Ah yes!" The red head pulled up four gold pieces, but realized that it appeared Sildar would be covering for himself. The wizard then placed three gold pieces on to the bar. "It is wonderful to meet you Toblen, I'm Aronin Havenscar." Before the barmaid could leave with the drinks, he plucked off one of the ale pitchers and quickly took a long drink. Placing the mug onto the counter top, he wiped the foam from his mouth and sighed with relief. "Nothing's better than nice cool ale after a long journey on the road." The absent-minded Aronin realized he hadn't answered Toblen's question, so he politely smiled and continued. "The three of us set off from Waterdeep on a job. We were supposed to meet our employer here in Phandalin, but he was abducted by goblins on the road. So now we're looking for him." Aronin paused and observed the innkeeper's reaction before continuing, "We believe he may have been taken to Cragmaw Castle, have you ever heard of it?"
|
|
|
Post by littleork on Mar 30, 2020 8:15:06 GMT
The innkeeper's brow wrinkles with concern. "Goblin's abducting travelers on the road? What a world! If it ain't hard enough around here with them bloody Redbrands terrorisin' folk we gotta look over our shoulders for goblins now, too! TRILENA! HOW'S THAT STEW COMING ALONG?"
A homely looking woman bustles out of the kitchen carrying a large pot of steaming stew, she plops it down on the bar and turns to leave again - obviously annoyed at being nagged. She decides to turn back and give Toblen a telling off, "I told you to keep that big mouth o' yours shut 'bout them gangsters! Thel couldn't help himself, he wanted to be a big man and now look where that's got him. Keep your trap shut and don't cause no trouble."
She storms back into the kitchen. Toblen chuckles, obviously embarrassed, he starts ladling stew into bowls. "Sorry 'bout that, everyone's just a little tense lately. I'm sure it'll be fine. Enjoy your meal."
A young lad almost trips you over as you turn to bring the bowls to the table, he's waving a wooden sword about and shouting, "I aint 'friad of no Deadbrand! YA ya YA! Carp said he found a secret tunnel in the woods and nearly got caught by 'em but they couldn't catch him, Deadbrands are too slow! ahha!"
Toblen looks over his shoulder, hoping his wife hasn't heard their son spouting off about what she just told him to be quiet about and quickly herds his son back behind the bar. "That's enough, boy. Put that thing down and fetch a cloth for them tables."
|
|
|
Post by Calignious on Mar 31, 2020 3:37:58 GMT
Aronin took another drink out of his ale mug, and listened to the outbursts by the innkeeper's family. Redbrands? It started to seem like the group was being tossed out of one fire and into another, or maybe into a stew. He stirred the spoon into the hot stew, and tried to resist the temptation to try it before it cooled off. It had been quite awhile since he had a good meal, and he wanted to relish it without burning his tongue. In an attempt to keep his mind off of the food, Aronin leaned closer to the innkeeper before he could walk away, and then spoke in a hushed voice so that his wife and son couldn't hear.
"Can you tell me more about these Redbrands? If we're going to be staying in town for the night, we should at least get a fair warning."
With that, Aronin took a nice pile of stew and started to feed himself. Of course he burnt his tongue, and couldn't taste a thing.
|
|