Continued from Robbing Kalvo

Looking for a quiet place to discuss their business, oly and Danos head to the small conference room, currently being used by Oren, now that Vilgar has finished immediate business.
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:01, Sun 06 Mar 2022.

"So what's the deal, gentlemen?" Oren asked, feet up on the table, peeling an apple with his knife.

Danos can barely contain his excitement. "We're looking to put a small expedition together into Shevnia. We have some information that could indicate where a valuable collection is hidden."

Oren nods. "Okay. A collection of what? I need to know what kind of profit we're talking about, so we can figure out a budget, get people interested, that sort of thing."
This message was last edited by the player at 18:11, Thu 19 Mar 2015.

"We're not sure yet. But we have a map, and the clues from it suggest that it might be a missing payroll lost during the war with Shevnia. We don't have a good idea of what's there yet, so the budget should be modest - just something to investigate further. Could be a big payoff, could be nothing."
This message was last edited by the player at 18:45, Thu 19 Mar 2015.

"Makes things more difficult," Oren shrugged. "Okay, this is what I can do. I can help you write a budget, help you recruit, write up a contract, find you sponsors, acquire your supplies, and arrange transport to and from the expedition site.

"Now, I don't work for free, gents, so you have two options. One, you pay me $16 an hour for my time setting all that up. And trust me, I know the people it takes to get this done quick and cheap."

"You don't want to pay me up front, you give me 15% of what you find when you get back."

Danos looks to Oly for anything he'd like to add, before making an offer to Oren.

Well I did find diz in Kalvo'z dings...

He places a Shenavian silver coin with Prince Minsky's face in it on the table for inspection.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:25, Fri 20 Mar 2015.

"That doesn't tell us much about what we might find," Oren said. "So it's a gamble for anyone involved.

"You want my help setting it up, I need you to either pay me up front sixteen copper per hour, or you give me fifteen percent of what's found when you get back."
This message was last edited by the player at 19:14, Fri 20 Mar 2015.

"Can you give us a guess about how many hours you'd expect to bill for a job like this? Maybe we can pay you an advance and then work from there?"

"Well let's see. Call it an hour to work up the budget. Another hour or so to go over fundraising options. A few hours to meet with potential sponsors... that can be tricky, because nobles love making you wait... another hour or so putting the word out and finding partners.

"An hour or so to get a notary and write up the expedition contract. Then a couple hours to do the footwork finding you all the best bargains in Northport and making equipment requisitions. An hour or so plotting out the best course to your destination."

"You want a very rough estimate, I'd say nine to fifteen hours work, all told. $144 to $240. And that's the gamble, gentlemen. Is that more or less than fifteen percent of what you find? What's the better deal?

EDIT: Danos waits to hear Oren and Oly's discussion.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:58, Fri 20 Mar 2015.

Zeemz like a lod of dime do me... we need all dad?

Oren shrugs. "You can skip anything you think you don't need. Danos wanted an estimate, and that's what I gave him. But let's start with the basics. Pay me sixteen copper and I'll work you up a budget in an hour. We see where we can go from there."

OK...   Oly forks over $16

Oren makes the money disappear, then pulls out a stylus and parchment.

"Okay, first off, you have two funding options. One, buy-in. Everybody who goes chips in a share of the costs. More people means you need more gear, but it also means you have more people splitting the cost... I'd say that if it's just four people you're looking at... maybe $400-450 per person. If you bring eight, you're looking at $275-$300."

"I'll tell you the exact amount when we know how many people are part of the expedition. And if you already have some of the gear, you can cut that down."

"Your other option is to find a sponsor. A sponsor is a rich merchant or noble who is going to fund your expedition in exchange for a cut of the profits. How much can be negotiated, but the more he puts up, the more he'll want back. The advantage here is that you don't need to put up any money up front, so if you don't have $300-400 per person, you're going to want a sponsor."

"Usually they'll ask you for 'what I gave you plus 5-20%' and that's off the top. And, Oly, this is important, they'll usually INSIST on going to see a wizard to make sure you're not cheating them."

He wrote down some more numbers, then looked up. "Now, the figure I quoted above? That includes a pack animal. Donkey. I can get you one cheap. You might also want to hire some porters. Because all the food and gear you're carrying, just for the trip, is going to slow you down... which means you need more food, which means it takes more time."

He stood up. "So what I need from you now is to know how many people you're bringing with, if you want pack animals or porters, and if you want to fund this yourself or look for a sponsor. I'm putting the hour you paid for on hold so you can figure that out while I go get a drink down in the tavern.

"Go find people. Come get me when you're ready, and we'll finish your budget."

Danos is glad that an initial agreement has been made. Thanking Oren, Danos heads to the bar in the Adventurer's guild in hopes that they can find someone interested in a job.

Oren walks alongside Danos down to the tavern. "If you're looking for partners, spread a little coin around. Pay criers to advertise. Put up a flyer for those who can read. Tip the bartender to point people in your direction."

Danos thanks Oren for his advice, and heads to the bar to follow it.

He buys a few rounds of drinks at a couple of the local bars to spread the word, and tips the staff well and lets them know that they should send people looking for work to where he is staying at the Guild.

OOC: What's a reasonable cost for that kind of thing?
Danos spends 20 copper on ale and tips.

10:30, Today: Danos rolled 10 using 3d6. Carousing 11.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:07, Tue 24 Mar 2015.

Harry, taking advantage of the public fountain once again to the obvious distress of the local women wanting to fetch water looks up when he hears Danos' voice as Danos exits a near by tavern.  "Me remember you!  Show more big things?"

Danos gives a good-natured laugh when he sees Haere again.

"I don't know about big things, but I'm sure there will be all sorts of things of all sizes where we intend to go. But we will be leaving the city and I know you came here for the big things. If you are fine leaving the city for a while, then I'm sure your strength and skills would be most welcome!"

"Me go.  Big city smell big bad."

Oly  finds Danos... Ledz dalk zum ...

Danos confers quietly with his partner.

Oly shakes his head...

Danos continues to talk.

Oly nods... Good...ledz do diz den...

Danos agrees with Oly. "Yes. Come on Haere, right now it looks like it will just be you and me actually going on the adventure. Let's see if anyone else is looking for a job."

"Where we go now?"

Oren came strolling up, joining Danos and Haere. "Sorry, couldn't help but overhear. Oly has elected to withdraw? Pity, but adventuring isn't for everyone. It takes a certain entrepreneurial attitude."

He squared his shoulders. "I'll take his place. But we'll need at least one other. And we'll need either a loan or a sponsorship to finance the trip."

"Oly is still a partner in the venture as we were the original people who found and decoded the map, but he won't be coming along. Oly's agreed to provide some money, to the tune of $800, but he's entitled to $1200 back and 1/3 of a partners percentage of any additional profits. I've got some money as well - I'd rather not take on additional outside sponsorship if we can help it."

As Danos struggles to recount the business details, he is clearly starting to get in way above his head.

"And I understand about the entrepreneurial spirit, but I had thought I had joined an adventurer's guild, not a guild of accountants!"
This message was last edited by the player at 14:32, Wed 25 Mar 2015.

"That's why men like me exist," Oren said. "To take care of those details so you can run around fighting monsters. Oly's offer is extremely generous, so let's take it and see if we can find one more to accompany us."

"Well I certainly appreciate it. Sorry Haere, I don't mean to exclude you from these negotiations - I've assumed that you are amenable to everything we're doing but please speak up if you wish."

"What is sponsorship?  We go on canoe?  Me make boat but need big tree and fire.  We go now?  Me show you big trees for boat."

"We can't get where we're going by river," Oren said. "Not from here. We're looking at a long overland trip, so we'll need supplies, and a donkey to carry those supplies. And, hopefully, to carry back all of our treasure."

"Donkey eat too tough.  Donkey slow me down.  No take more me can carry."

"A donkey slows you down? Good. You can run ahead and scout while the rest of us struggle to keep up. Because what slows me down is stopping to hunt every day or carrying a month's worth of rations on my back.

"We need food. One-hundred and sixty-eight meals to get there, the same to get back. Hunting will slow us down a lot more than a donkey."
This message was last edited by the player at 17:22, Wed 25 Mar 2015.

Harry growls at Oren.  "Little man no tell me what do.  Little man no good to eat but make good bait for bear.  Bear good meat."

"That slows me down too. Is that what we're looking at? A month's travel time?"

Oren growled at Haere. "I'm not telling you what to do. I'm telling you that you're an idiot and you should leave the planning to people who know what they're talking about. Now sit down, shut up, and let the adults talk before I turn you into a fucking rug."

ooc: Intimidation-15. Passed by 1. Resisted by Will.

He turned back to Danos. "Two weeks there. Two weeks back. We might be able to resupply... I'd need to see the map... but we're still carrying almost a hundred pounds of food per person each way. And taking the time to hunt every day only slows us down even more."

"How many moons we walk?"

While speaking he takes a stick off his belt then turns and throws, hitting a pigeon that was too careless.  Retrieving the pigeon and his stick he returns to Danos' side and offers him the bird.

"Bird not so stupid outside but still good to eat.  Much food outside."

"Food that still has to be caught and carried; little of is is waiting by the side of the road. You want to catch a bear? Spend at least a day tracking it, then you're stuck carrying hundreds of pounds of bear meat.

We walk fourteen moons there. Fourteen back. One hundred meals per person."
This message was last edited by the player at 17:46, Wed 25 Mar 2015.

Danos, having seen Haere's difficulties communicating with cityfolk before, accepts the bird.

To Haere: "I understand that you are an excellent hunter, but I still think we should bring food at least for Oren and me, and that will mean a mule. If you would prefer to hunt while scouting I'm sure you'd be capable of it."

Danos then turns to Oren, and unrolls the map with the tantalizing 'X' scrawled on it.

To Oren: "Oly translated the Shevnian notes. Apparently this X is just a few miles south of a town called Lescreu. We might be able to save some travel time and weight by resupplying there. But we will almost certainly require someone who speaks the language, even if we bypass the town."
This message was last edited by the player at 18:27, Wed 25 Mar 2015.

"I speak the language. But hunting isn't the problem. I can hunt. I can live off the land, but it's a lot slower than just walking, unless you're hoping to rely entirely on game crossing your path. And I don't know about him, but you and I, if we just eat meat we're going to fall ill. Scurvy. Malnutrition."
This message was last edited by the player at 17:48, Wed 25 Mar 2015.

"You don't have to convince me. I'm an elf, and my coming to the city was exactly intended to avoid having to live off of the land any longer because it's a pain.

"But do you know anything about this town Lescreu? Could we buy supplies to get us to there, then stock up for the final leg in the city? Or should we bring everything with us from Northport?"
This message was last edited by the player at 18:29, Wed 25 Mar 2015.

"Never heard of the town, sorry."

"Thing is, we're going to need supplies. Tools. Camp gear. Medical supplies. Estimate another twenty pounds per person, added to your arms and armor. Then whatever food you need to carry on top of that. Ten pounds if you can hunt, twenty if you can't.

"Unless you want to lug around another twenty pounds, we're going to want a pack animal."
This message was last edited by the player at 18:58, Wed 25 Mar 2015.

"Yes, of course, we need an animal. But what's the next step?"

OOC: I think we might be having a miscommunication? I'm not arguing with Oren on any of this, I think we're both in agreement already.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:07, Wed 25 Mar 2015.

"Find a fourth partner. I'll work up a travel budget. Then we'll buy the supplies and set out."

"Excellent. I'll try to scare up some interest in the local bars. Do you have any further leads to follow?

What about you, Haere? Know anyone who might want to slog through the Shevnian lands in search of Big Things and adventure?"

"No.  Me only one who leave home."

"Me too."

Danos heads to the bar where he drinks, and waits for anyone who might have heard his news through the staff from bars in the area to come find him.

Stringfellow walked into the bar, looking for the contact he had heard about. Spotting a person that seemed to match the description, he wanders over to say hello and get more information.  "I understand you are looking for gentlemen adventurers for a worthwhile quest."

"Yes," Oren said. "But replace 'Gentlemen Adventurer' with 'Capable Professional' and 'Worthwhile Quest' with 'Lucrative Treasure Hunt.' Are you interested?"

"I am always interested in opportunities to participate in an adventure.  After all, many of the most well known epic ballads were based around 'lucrative treasure hunts'.  I welcome the chance to create my own entry into those ranks.  I think you will find my blade effective, and my ability to keep a group's spirits high, welcome during a long journey..". Stringfellow pats the woodwind poking over his shoulder, on the opposite side from a bow.

Danos greeted the bard. "Excellent, good to meet you, songsmith. I hope that our adventure ends up being one of your ballads with a happy ending for all of us."

Stringfellow takes a seat across the table. "Stringfellow Hill, at your service.  Fighter of oppression, feared by evil, friend of the masses, gentleman about town, and entertainer of all. What can you tell me about the quest, how much gear will I need, when do we leave, and what other requirements do you have?

Syvanus slides into the chair next to Stringfellow

"I'm working up the expedition's operational budget now," He pointed at Syvanus. "Are you interested as well? With five, it's around ten silver each to buy in. ($200) With six, it'd be eight silver. ($160). And so forth. The more who go, the cheaper it is for each of us, right, cuz we're all chipping in for supplies."

"Doesn't cover food, though. It's a two week trip overland, so you'll need another $80 or so for your rations. Half that if you're a hunter and can supplement what you bring with fresh meat. We're moving fast though - no time to stalk game for days. You will need to bring some food.

"I might be able to work out some sort of deals with local merchants for cheaper supplies, but it's best to plan for a worst case scenario."
This message was last edited by the player at 21:09, Fri 27 Mar 2015.

"I've worked with Syvanus here before, he is a fine fellow.  Stringfellow clasps Syvanus on the shoulder.  I can agree to the terms of the costs, as I am no hunter and would prefer to bring food with.  Splitting it more ways is nice, too.  What is the manner and estimated value of the treasure we are after?  And what would be the split, assuming we locate and recover it?. He smiles. "Oh yes, and I would like to volunteer to assist in the effort to gain our supplies.  I often enjoy good relations with merchants and other folk."
This message was last edited by the player at 21:35, Fri 27 Mar 2015.

"Coin, apparently," Oren half-shrugged. "All we really have to go on is the map. Maybe we'll find more, but there are no guarantees."

"As far as the split, we keep a record of everything we recover. When we return to Nortport, it's all appraised. Our sponsor, who is selling us the map, gets $1200 off the top - he's donating $800 to supply us, so that's only fair. He also gets a small... one-third normal... share."

"The rest is divided among us evenly. Any treasure you lose or consume is counted as part of your share.

"As far as supplies go? You can come along, but I'm a master merchant, with connections throughout the city. I don't need the help, but as long as you don't get in my way, I don't mind the company."
This message was last edited by the player at 21:48, Fri 27 Mar 2015.

I would enjoy accompanying you on the chore.

Lets hope for at least seven then, as I don't have that sort of money, after buying some useful supplies. I don't believe I have ever had to pay to go on an adventure like this... truly different.

"You're not paying to go on an adventure," Oren said. "You're chipping in to pay for the supplies we need. Medical supplies, shovels, bags, that sort of thing. And a donkey to carry it all, that's where most of the money goes... but we can sell the donkey when we're done, so we'll recoup some of the cost."

He drummed his fingers. "I might be able to loan you a little if you're short. How much money do you have?"
This message was last edited by the player at 01:21, Sat 28 Mar 2015.

"Where donkey at?  Me hunt donkey we go now?"

In reply to Oren (msg # 64):

Bit over a hundred in coin ... alchemical fire is expensive.

Oren chuckled and shook his head. "Why on earth did you buy alchemical fire?"

I can probably loan you a bit as well, Syvanus.  I don't have a lot extra, but I can loan you $40 I think

In reply to Oren (msg # 67):

Because it  burns things regular fire doesn't ... and we had a nasty critter that it dispatched, Stringfellow can vouch for that ...I do have a bow that I am decent with  and a bit  of magic ability.

"What did you get for killing it?" Oren asked.

Slamming his fist on the table with a visible crack Harry shouts "You tell now! Get donkey, leave smelly city! No can wait for you little man. I go now!"
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:58, Mon 30 Mar 2015.

For killing the creature and it's friends we split a small amount of old jewelery that we found, $30 each.  We would both prefer to take part in a much more profitable undertaking.  Stringfellow shrugs.

Sitting back, he starts quietly humming a song.
This message was last edited by the player at 06:20, Sat 28 Mar 2015.

Oren glared at the departing wildman.

He turned back to Stringfellow. "I'd say, spending all your coin on alchemical fire to win $30 does seem like a bad deal. Well. Come up with what money you can, and we'll see who can lend you the rest. I'd like to get going as soon as possible."

He stood. "I'll see about acquiring supplies. The rest of you go and see who else we can recruit. We'll get together in the morning, pick up our goods and pay for them, and then set out.."
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:06, Mon 30 Mar 2015.

Danos, returning from the privy, sees the wildmn storm off and re-evaluates the makeup of the expedition.
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:09, Mon 30 Mar 2015.

Oren shook his head. "Okay, I'll arrange for the supplies and see if I can get some more partners for the venture. We'll meet tomorrow, I'll tell you how much of a budget we need. If everyone has a tent of their own we can skimp a little, but the donkey and provisions are going to be our greatest expenses."

"So it looks like the four of us are it, unless we can find others who are interested."

Danos heads out to go buy himself a tent.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:19, Tue 31 Mar 2015.

"I may know a young cleric trainee that might help us."

Oren stops Danos as he leaves. "If you go buy yourself a tent now it won't save us any. I can get a discount. But if you already own supplies, that saves us money."

Danos stops on his way out.

"Ah, great. Other than a blanket, a canteen, and a rope, I don't have much in the way of outdoor survival equipment. I hadn't expected to need it so much in the city."

Turning to Stringfellow, he says: "That sounds excellent." Then adds with a smirk: "A trainee - does that mean he'll work for god-credit? And he... wouldn't happen to be able to create food, would he?"
This message was last edited by the player at 20:14, Mon 30 Mar 2015.

As a Healing Initiate, I think he does know how to create food.  I have to find out if he is available though, as he is still in training.

"I might be able to find us a wizard and some more muscle," Oren said. "A group of seven is ideal. We'd only need to chip in $250 at most, plus food, unless your cleric can summon up a banquet for seven people three times a day. I'll see what bargains I can scrape up."

In reply to Oren (msg # 84):

"Did I hear someone was looking for a priest?"

A small dark man comes through the door, followed be an animated rock...

"Is this the guy, Stringfellow?" Oren asked.

"I don't know this guy, but if he is interested in joining us, it spreads the cost out more for supplies.  If you want, my friend could also join us, more healers can't be a bad thing.". Stringfellow says as he waves at the pet rock.
This message was last edited by the player at 04:17, Tue 31 Mar 2015.

"Depends on if the priests' gods are compatible." Oren rubbed his temples. "I've got a few mages to interview, and we could use some muscle more than a second healer.

"Okay, priest. Tell us about your god and your religion."

In reply to Oren (msg # 88):

"Grom is the earth god, and earthworks are his specialty. If you plan on going into the earth without his blessing, you may not be returning. I can bury your enemies, alive if need be, as well as throwing stones. But I can also heal and feed those who venture down, casting out evil spirits and turning away the dead, or resurrecting those whose service in ridding the earth of evil that troubles her if need be, thougj I may need some assistance with that last one."

"Well, as far as I know, we're heading to a swamp. How does Grom feel about swamps?"

In reply to Oren (msg # 90):

Kirpich frowns.

"Can't say I like swamps. Don't swim, you see. Grom does not have a problem with them...they are just water and earth, with some weeds. But I don't like them."

"We don't know what we'll find there," Oren said. "So what do we have to do to stay on Grom's good side? We don't want you losing your powers because we angered your god."

He nodded to the others. "Tell us about your religion. What does it ask? What does it forbid?"

"My young friend Nodwin Zideqick is a initiate at the Healer Temple, I believe his path is with Pharmaka, the goddess of medicine. From what I have heard, her followers not only heal those that ask, but they also produce salves, potions and other medical supplies. They often travel around to get experience with different terrains and how to find and prepare medicinal herbs."

Stringfellow answers.

"Nodwin was always good for a scrap as a youngster, he may not be a front line fighter, but he is able to defend himself in combat."


ooc:  Stringfellow hasn't had a chance to actually go get his cleric, since the topic just came up at the meet and greet.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:50, Tue 31 Mar 2015.

"Excellent to meet you, good priest. An stone priest would likely find it easy to find or make solid paths through a swamp."

"We don't need two healers," Oren told Stringfellow. "I can get us a wizard and some muscle."

"As you wish. He can spend his time at the temple, with his studies."

"With the five of us and the mage and warrior I'm going to recruit, and the money Oly is offering, that brings the cost per person down to $160. Can we all manage that?"

I'll find a way...

"How much are you short?" Oren said. "I might be able to loan you some."

In reply to Oren (msg # 99):

"Grom's followers always spend time in contact with the ground, and loose powers if not in contact with earth or stone (ie they cannot fly or float/swim). Mining is exploring the earth, so not necessarily bad, but despoiling the elements or using earth to honour other Gods would likely piss him off. Hence, other gods that claim elements as just part of their domain, like the local Plutocracy, are seen as heretics because they do not show earth the proper respect. Likewise, breaking gems. Clerics are called to celibacy and must not drink alcohol. They like to sleep on the earth.

I can move through earth and shape and form it, though it takes time. But it sounds like you have someone else and do not require my services. As you wish..."

He will pause for confirmation before departing once it is given.

"No, you're in," Oren turned back to the priest. "I'm counting you as one of the five here. But I was more interested in your god's morality. What's Grom's moral code? Does he care about human behavior at all? That sort of thing."

In reply to Oren (msg # 101):

"Ah, he is concerned for the welfare of humanity, if that is what you mean. They should be caretakers of the Earth. He is one of the 'good' gods. I have $125 I can loan you."
This message was last edited by the player at 19:56, Tue 31 Mar 2015.

In reply to Oren (msg # 101):

"Looking for a spellcaster I hear you are," says a dark dressed goblin, bearing a shield and peacebonded sword.
"I am Razakeel, called Shadowcloak, and although I have yet to
Raise any new undead, I have been of use deterring some and teaching how to
lay and limit them."
This message was lightly edited by the GM at 00:33, Wed 01 Apr 2015.

"I don't know if we'll be facing any undead," Oren said. "Do you have other magical skills that would be useful without them?"

Danos grinned as the motley crew began to assemble. This was the kind of thing he had left his pastoral homeland in the mountains for: strangers of rare and unique skills meeting in a smelly bar to face danger and pursue treasure. He took another swig of ale and listened as the group got to know one another.

"Syvanus, let me know what you are short, I will loan you what you need". Stringfellow nods.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:54, Tue 31 Mar 2015.

In reply to Stringfellow Hill (msg # 106):

I think about $60

He pulls out5 silver.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:18, Tue 31 Mar 2015.

"Here you are my friend."
Stringfellow hands Syvanus $60.  He then turns to Oren and hands him $160
"And here is my own buy in."
This message was last edited by the player at 16:20, Wed 01 Apr 2015.

Oren takes the coins. "Danos, I'll also need the coins from Oly. Be ready to depart in the morning. And don't forget to purchase rations for yourself if you don't want to live off of magical food - our new priest friend is not a walking pantry, nor is he our personal chef."

Danos produces a large purse of silver and hands it to Oren.

"That's from Oly."

He then fishes into the purse at his belt and removes six silver coins and a fistful of coppers.

"And there's my contribution. I'll see you all in the morning!"

He then leaves and heads out to the merchant district to purchase rations.

OOC: Oly contributed $800.
Danos pays $160 for himself.


This message was last edited by the player at 00:21, Wed 01 Apr 2015.

In reply to Danos (msg # 110):

  A cinnamon hued woman wearing travel leathers and carrying a staff steps
into the office and does a bit of a double take at the black clad goblin.
"Monsieur Oren I believe?... Razakeel, is that you? How is your cousin
Zeelzeel?"

"Oh, here's our other arcane candidate," Oren said. "Marlena, Razakeel, we'll only be taking one of you on this expedition. Consider this an interview... go ahead, each of you, and tell us why we should take you along."

In reply to Oren (msg # 112):

" I will fight, if I must, and can put down that which I, or any
can call up. If we need...reinforcements those I can provide."

In reply to Razakeel Shadowcloak (msg # 113):

Kirpich smiled.

"The food is plain, but not very tasty. You wont die from it, but it won't make you feel alive either..."

"I'm sure your god has better use for your magic than feeding a bunch of non-believers," Oren laughed.

In reply to Oren (msg # 115):

"Perhaps, though if they are ridding the earth of despoilers or heretics, perhaps not!"

"There's no evidence that our quest has anything to do with heretics or despoilers. It's just a treasure hunt. Is Grom good with you using your magic for something that has nothing to do with his church or religion?

"I don't want you losing your powers because you were using Grom's miracles to make a quick buck, because let's be honest here. There's no great cause, there's no holy crusade, there's no great evil to vanquish. This is business."

"I plan on bringing a two week supply of food for myself."

I thought that was what we just chipped in for?

"No," Oren said. "We're buying a donkey, tools, camp gear. Shovels. Sacks to carry our loot. The donkey is the expensive part."

"Two weeks travel is 42 meals. $82 worth of rations. I can lend you some extra cash for food, Stringfellow."

"Hmmm?   No, I'm fine.  Syvanus would probably be appreciative though."
Stringfellow hands Syvanus another $40.  "Put this towards your food supplies."

"If you can hunt, you can probably get by with half that many supplies."

"And before we leave tomorrow we can break our fast with porridge at the guild."

"Oren, you are getting shovels, picks, rope and other treasure hunting tools, correct?"
This message was last edited by the player at 16:36, Wed 01 Apr 2015.

"Picks, shovels, crowbars, that sort of thing."

I'll hunt some and buy some rations... I saved a few coin for such.

"Good, good."

He turned to Kirpich. "Oh, what's your name by the way? And how does your god feel about the undead and necromancy?"

In reply to Oren (msg # 126):

"Where exactly are you guys heading? I know Aral pretty well, but I haven't been in the hetlands much, just picked up the tongue in little Shevnia."

In reply to Oren (msg # 126):

"Oh, my terrible manners, I am Kirpich Rockson, and this is chunky..." he turns and refers to his small earthen elemental friend.

"Treasure hunting is not exactly Groms favourite activity, but removing that which was entrusted to his care is not irksome to him. Removing undead abominations is a much more worthy cause..."

"Undead abominations." Oren nodded.

He turned to the goblin necromancer. "Thanks for coming out, but raising the dead isn't compatible with our priest's faith. We're going to go with Marlene this time, but I will keep you in mind for future expeditions."

In reply to Oren (msg # 129):

"No hard feelings, Razakeel. Good luck on the hunt, as your cousin would say."

"I'll see you all later tonight, or tomorrow morning.  Nice to meet you."
Stringfellow heads out to purchase supplies.

Oren turned to Kirpich. "So, if you want in, you'll need to contribute $160 towards supplies. In return, you'll receive an equal share of what treasure we recover."

Syvanus also heads out to buy rations.

In reply to Syvanus (msg # 133):

"Likewise, nice to meet you all. May Grom be with you. I will be in my room until our meeting tonight."

"Before you go, I'll need the money so I can buy our supplies," Oren said, putting out his hand.

In reply to Oren (msg # 135):

"Of course. Here is $100. I only have $126, and I may need the rest later."

Oren took the money, but just stared at it. "It's not $100. It's $160. You think the merchants are going to accept $1640 when I have to pay them $1700? No. They need to be paid, and it's not fair if you pay $100 when everyone else pays $160. You short me $60, and that $60 comes out of my pocket."

He poked Kirpich in the chest. "You get that other $60 by morning. I don't care how. If I gotta cover your broke-ass I will, but you gotta pay me back when we're done... with interest. I cover you for $60, then you're gonna pay me back $100."

"This ain't no charity. Got it?"

In reply to Oren (msg # 137):

"This is setious then. Good thing I just sold a couple of light stones.
 Here is the $160, and while I get that we are getting a tent and some food out of this, I would like to know what we are looking for in the Hetlands."

In reply to Marlena DuBois (msg # 138):

"What we are doing is seeking out the lost Paytrain of the September Desertion, in Lescrue. Here is my share."

"Good on you, Snorri."

In reply to Oren (msg # 140):

"Chunky already has group basics, and we have a lantern and 2 small casks of oil."

"Let me first say that you, Kirpich, are the one who's part of this expedition. Not Chunky. I mean, if he wants to follow you around for free and help out he's welcome, but he doesn't get a share of what we find."

"That said, if you want to give me Chunky's group basics as part of the $160 you owe that will knock off $50 from what you owe, but I'll still need $110 in cash."
This message was last edited by the player at 00:17, Fri 03 Apr 2015.

In reply to Oren (msg # 142):

"Chunky is my assistant, given by Grom, and we go everywhere together. We are glad to carry it for the group, though see no need to give it away. Of course it is our contribution, as is my ability to create food. I can offer $110 for other goods if that is needed, but I need very little myself, and Chunky needs nothing. He is living earth."

Oren waved his hands. "Listen, the buy in for this adventure is $160. You can pay in cash, or you can pay in equipment, but it all becomes the property of the group. That's just the way it works. I'm paying $160, Snorri is paying $160, Danos is paying $160. If you want in, you gotta pay $160, and part of that can be the group basics... but you're giving it to the group."

He shook his head. "Shit, you can probably have it back when we're done, kid, but you have to put in just as much as everyone else, or it's not fair. During the expedition, it belongs to the group. That way if you die or quit, we're not stuck without group basics. Understand?"

In reply to Oren (msg # 144):

"My unit did not riot, as our commandant paid half shares from his own
pocket, but the deserters had not been paid for at least a month when the train was lost. They were a company of fifty stalwart men. If what we seek
 is there, you would not begrudge a cookpot."

"Right. When we're done we'll be rich or we'll be dead, so there's no point in being stingy now."

In reply to Oren (msg # 144):

"Ok, that is fair. I was not aware of the group buy in. I guess that comes from coming in late. But for the adventure, it makes sense to have it as part of the groups equipment. Any reason chuncky should not carry it for the group? He could probably help in carrying other stuff as well..."

"He can carry whatever he agrees to carry," Oren said. "But if he's going to be fighting, it might be better keeping it on the donkey."

Having collected everybody's money, he goes off to buy the equipment and supplies.

In reply to Oren (msg # 148):

"Oh, chunky is not much of a fighter. I can call some other Earth elementals for that though..."

Stringfellow returns later that evening.  If there is someone waiting to talk, he will join them, otherwise he heads to bed to rest up for the long journey.

In reply to Stringfellow Hill (msg # 150):

The mage's eyes widen at some of the figures.
"Um, the going rate for even a common soldier for a month is $750.
If Snorri is right, we could be looking at a few pounds of silver. If the pay
 train was late when it went missing, or if some of the deserters were being
paid at a higher rate, it could be a lot more than that. Fifty elite soldiers
would have been paid twice that, over seven pounds of silver, and if it was nore than a month's pay..."

"And bear in mind that these coins may be worth more than their face value to coin collectors and historians."
This message was last edited by the player at 15:36, Fri 03 Apr 2015.

"Definitely a worthwhile quest.  I'm looking forward to the challenge.". Stringfellow smiles.
"I have 87 lbs of gear for the donkey, is that ok?  Two pouches of food, two spare wineskins of water, and my normal backpack."
This message was last edited by the player at 17:11, Fri 03 Apr 2015.

In reply to Stringfellow Hill (msg # 153):

If there are vital supplies, I would suggest Chunky here carry them, as a mule is likely to run from danger, right when we would need the supplies!

"The mule is going to be carrying a full load with just the gear I'm buying for the group," Oren said. "Anything extra, you carry yourself, unless you want the elemental to carry it for you... but even then, a backpack only carries so much weight, and with all the lamp oil its carrying, all it takes is a single stray spark and the whole damn thing is going to explode."

"My advice? Pack light."

"The reason we are bringing a donkey is to carry all of the supplies, food, water, tools, equipment, loot, and treasure, so that we can make the journey quickly without delays to get supplies, hunt, carry heavy weight, and such."
Stringfellow smiles at Chunky.
"The supplies needed by all of us to travel quickly would dwarf Chunky."
Turning to Oren.
"I am pretty sure I remember you mentioning that food and supplies could be carried by the donkey.  I can bring less, but the food and water still weighs 60lbs.  It is two weeks there and two weeks back, right?  That is 80 meals total, in case we can't resupply."
This message was last edited by the player at 22:29, Fri 03 Apr 2015.

In reply to Oren (msg # 155):

Kirpich laughs.

"It will take more than a spark to light a wooden casket with lamp oil in a backpack, and even if it lit, it would not explode. It simply is not volatile enough! But I will get him a larger pack, all the same. Come get me when we are ready to depart."

Kirpich puts a frame backpack on Chunky, and transfers some items to it. He then waits in his room until informed they are departing.

"I originally hoped to buy a larger mule," Oren said. "But with most of you barely able to afford $160, we had to go with a smaller animal. A small mule is $1000, a large one is $2000."

He sounded a little annoyed by the fact. "We could hire some porters, but then we have to carry food for them as well, which sort of defeats the purpose."

In reply to Oren (msg # 158):

"Why not buy Oxen? They are only $1500, and are stronger than mules?"

"Not as suited to swamps. I'm impressed that you knew how much oxen cost off the top of your head, though."

In reply to Oren (msg # 160):

"I know much about travelling, as travel around spreading the good word about Grom. Actually, some oxen are the best possible in the swamps. I have known of water buffalo being used, and they live in swamps given the option. But I could not tell you if they are available here, or how much they would cost...like I said, I don't care much for swamps myself."

"Nope, they're rubbish when it comes to any kind of rough terrain."

"Are you sure this mission is okay with Grom? I don't want you having your powers stripped away because you were off treasure hunting instead of spreading the word of Grom. That would be unfortunate."

In reply to Kirpich Rockson (msg # 161):

"Gorm or Crom matter not to me. Let us feast tonight, because tomorrow we march."

"Kirpich, would you mind if Chunky carried a food pouch for me? It's about 21 lbs.  The rest of the food & water I will carry. I would appreciate it and endeavor to keep you entertained during the trip."

In reply to Stringfellow Hill (msg # 164):

"Chunky can carry another 14 lbs before becoming heavily encumbered. He would be glad to carry 14 lbs of supplies though.

This mission is fine with Grom as long as I remain in contact with the earth at all times and you all get to hear about him, and see the benefit of his blessings."
This message was last updated by the player at 04:47, Sat 04 Apr 2015.

"Thank you, that's perfect."

In reply to Stringfellow Hill (msg # 166):

"We are meeting in the morning? Let me see if I can sell Ashbury
another light stone and get a little extra scratch."

"Good. All I ask is that you respect our religious differences and don't get pushy about trying to convert us. It's rude."

Syvanus looks for a few merchants who seem a bit into their drink and have useful looking purses to bolster is own finances.


18:34, Today: Syvanus rolled 12 using 3d6. Pickpocket 2.

18:33, Today: Syvanus rolled 10 using 3d6. Pickpocket.


Made both
This message was last edited by the player at 01:34, Sat 04 Apr 2015.

In reply to Oren (msg # 168):

Kirpich smiles.

"I assure you, I will let my actions do the talking. Grom is not a god of idle are manipulative words. All I ask is to give credit where credit is due, and I will do the same. No more, and no less."

Stringfellow decides to go and get a last bit of practice in before the journey.  He heads to a tavern that he had spotted earlier that was quieter than others. He sits himself in a corner near the doorway and proceeds to see if he can draw in more customers.

He warms up by playing the flute, performing some of the more popular songs among the working class.  This is usually a good way to draw in a crowd.

Then he tells some of the ever expanding tales of the near mythical Su and his fabulous bow.  The true story of Su has been lost through the ages, but bards have long since created many tales of adventures of the legendary man named Su.

These are followed by a rendition of the ballad of Jayne versus the evil boss Higgins.  A classic narrative where the outsider hero sees the townfolk struggling against the yoke of oppression, so he stands up for them and steals everything that the evil leader has, and he then distributes it amongst the downtrodden before he leads the pursuit out of town and disappears into legend.


21:36, Today: Stringfellow Hill rolled 13 using 3d6. Musical Instrument Woodwind - 15.
21:36, Today: Stringfellow Hill rolled 7 using 3d6. Singing - 15.
21:36, Today: Stringfellow Hill rolled 9 using 3d6. Public Speaking - 16.
21:37, Today: Stringfellow Hill rolled 12 using 3d6. Performance - 15.

Syvanus shows up and gives Stringfellow his $60 back.
Had a bit of luck...

From the prior night:

"Before we all split up, there's one last issue I wish to discuss. Contracts. Now, I have a standard contract that covers the basics of our arrangement - everyone gets a fair split, we share expenses, anyone who doesn't pull their weight gets a lower share, that sort of thing - as well as penalties if anyone tries to cheat the others."

"I'd like to remind you that the Adventurer's Guild was the Thieves' Guild too long ago."

"However, a mage friend of mine presented me with the opportunity to test out a magical contract he's developed. It would make those who sign it literally unable to cheat the other members of the party. We would be guaranteed to not have to worry about any of us taking a little bit extra."

He folded his arms. "It's $200. I'm willing to cover most of the cost myself, but I'm $40 short. So I ask two questions:"

"One: Are you willing to sign a magical contract that prevents you from cheating the rest of us?"

"Two: Are you willing to give me $6 for the security that none of the rest of us are going to cheat you?"

In reply to Oren (msg # 173):

"I'm in. Is this Spielgud's multiperson version of Oath? I definately need to read that over before signing."

"Sure, I'll have a copy prepared when we depart in the morning."

I'd like to read it too, before signing, but I am not against the idea.

I've spent all I have in preparation, I'll not borrow any more either... so if it costs, I won't participate... andI do want to read anything I do sign.

"The standard contracts I like to use are pretty simple. It lays out the terms of our shares. Let me break it down."

"First, our take is made up of everything we come across from the moment we leave. When we get back, we get everything appraised, and this includes the mule and whatever supplies remain."

"First we deduct Oly's $1200, then we divide the value of our take by the number of surviving party members. That's the value of a share."

He clapped his hands. "Note that this total is based upon everything we find. If we find a potion, and you drink it, that potion's value is part of the total, and will be considered part of your share."

"Anyway, after we have the value of shares, you can opt to take any art or weapons or magical items or books instead of coins, at the value they're appraised at. Everything else will be sold for as much as I can get for it."

He put his hands in his pockets. "Anyone caught trying to cheat the others will face severe penalties. We'll level charges against you with the guild, and I will personally set out to ruin your reputation and make sure nobody ever works with you again."

"Does anyone have anything else they want added to the contract?"

"Sounds ok so far, but I would like to know what supplies are on the mule."

Oren pulled out his shopping list. "Sure thing. You can inspect it tomorrow morning."
This message was last edited by the player at 20:15, Sat 04 Apr 2015.

Seems logical enough...

In reply to Syvanus (msg # 181):

"I can sign a contract, and spare the $6 you ask for. But I will have no more cash. Grom takes a dim view of his servants cheating, and I have no intention of doing so."

In reply to Kirpich Rockson (msg # 182):

"The terms sound reasonable, with the risks... shares determined by number of survivors."




Continued in On the Road to Shevnia
This message was last edited by the player at 16:58, Sun 06 Mar 2022.