After a Navy's crew brought the ship back at the docks, your group and Gilbert returned to Metrosan's Breach, then to his guildhall, the Phoenix' Nest. It takes a bit of imagination, but it does look a bit like a bird with spread wings, siting in it's nest.

Inside, you're greeted with the sight of a large dining hall with a wide bar in the back. Multiple adventurers sit and chat, though a few turn to look at you as you enter. The first voice you hear, though... "Uncle Gilbert!" ...is a small girl who jumps at Gilbert's... knee. After lifting her up to his shoulders, Gilbert looks at you and say "Welcome to the Phoenix Blades!"

"Am I correct to assume that I need to make a few more amulets?" A red-haired elf in white robes walks toward you, smiling as he holds up a wooden amulet similar to the one Gilbert wears. "I'm glad to see things went well for you, my nephew." He hands the amulet to Khaaven.

"Well, they will need to meet with the guild master first."

"Uncle , a wooden amulet. The least you could do for your favorite nephew is make it from precious metals or encrust it with gems."

"Kin, then?" Ingris raises an eyebrow. "Or is this family-not-of-blood?"

While waiting for a response, the tattooed barbarian woman takes out a waterskin filled at the docks. "Saltwater." She then tosses it to Khaaven. "Wash your hands with this til it stings. And the rest of you, too, who spilled blood on the ship. Be cautious with the amount, though. I have but the one waterskin, and I'd feel amiss if it didn't come back around to me."

When it comes to him, Istvan performs the suggested ablution with the saltwater. He hadn't checked very closely at all to see if the men he'd whacked in the head had bled or not, but he felt that this was as much in the nature of a team-building exercise as anything.

Istvan was just grateful that he wouldn't have to drink the seawater. He'd done that enough back when he'd first learned to swim.

Khaaven washes his hands and passes the skin to the others. "We are Kin by blood and even more importantly we are kin by steel. He was my mentor and instructor in the art of the blade."

"Now now, nephew. There's a reason to make it out of wood." Mortimer says as he place the amulet in Khaaven's hand. As with Gilbert's amulet, it creates an illusion of the guild's symbol above it. "This is the proof that you are a member of the Phoenix Blades, and not just a random hobo out on a killing spree. And the best way to avoid loosing it, is to make it seem worthless."

You've just finished washing your hands when a tired-looking woman in a red dress enters the hall, and stomps to the bar before planting her face on it. The barman sighs as he turns his gray eyes to the woman. "Did they have you rebuild the north wall?" She just groans, as she reaches for the drink he gives her. "You will have to wait before resting, Gilbert brought in new recruits."

The short woman forces her head back to down the drink, before turning to look at you with moss-colored eyes. "Well, that's unexpected. I see your uncle finally let you in, Khaaven. Welcome to the guild." She looks at the others. "And I think introductions are in order. I am Della Quake, guild master of the Phoenix Blades."

"Hello there-- Istvan Vanoson here, cleric of Noric, deity of um Freedom," Istvan says, once again skipping over the Darkness and part on this particular occasion.

(If there is any sort of pause before anyone else speaks, he thinks to add: "Who really, really has a problem with Vendak, the Slaver God, I want to make very clear.")

"Ah yes. I've heard of Noric in my youth." Gilbert says. "He was deemed a pest back in the days of the Caliphate, when Vendak's worship was at it's strongest."

"Well, you'll fit right at home then." Della says with a smile. "Gilbert here ran away from his tribe because he couldn't stand the slavery. He even managed to bring a dozen slave back to Metrosan's Breach, including Royce, our alchemist and Corlis' father." She nods to the girl on Gilbert's shoulder.

drifting down the river, how many days now?

Growing up in Bitbriar wasn't easy, not for the half-elf. She had to fight twice as hard to gain the respect of the elders. Not because they were unkind, but rather all they could see was her human father traits.  Her short little pointy ears, and being taller than any other elf in the village. It was her mother's, mother,r and sister, that raised her after her parents disappeared. they taught her the way of the druid. When she became of age she was sent to the seers.

"Follow the Moonstone Stream. Where the river split, is where you will find your nest."

And so, Leila left the lake of Vigilant Mirror, drifting down the river Looking for the split. {A nest? what am I doing looking for a nest? what kind of nest, a giant eagle? a dragon? if only the seers would just say outright what to look for}  She made many stops along the way.  a  night here or there in the smaller villages. inquire of the area.

There was a night where some human man sat at a tavern bar babbling to anyone who would listen, and even to those who would not. He sat there babbling about some strange guild on the river " at the fork it is.... a nest. haha, can you believe it.. seen it with mine own eyes"  The poor man annoyed some big burly oger-looking man. that started a bar fight. She did not want to get involved, but as the chairs went flying she saw the pour guy huddled on the ground in the fetal position. with a heavy sigh, she dodged and weaved her way to the man. had to knock a head or two out of the way. anyway, she helped the poor guy get out of the tavern. he mumbled his thanks and waddled off, likely to find his bed.

Later that night she found a letter in her room at the inn. it told her that there was indeed a nest at the rivers fork. the letter suggested she find her way there and introduce her self.

drifting down the river, how many days now? then there around the bend of the river. it came into view. She stopped the little raft to gaze at the sight. people milling about the docks. and the looming building. she wrangled her raft to shore, gathered up her belongings and headed to the building.



taking note of what she sees she heads to the bar. and to the bar man presents him with the letter.

"To whom do i speak about joining up with" she scans the letter again The phoenix's blades

Della looks at the new arrival with a raised eyebrow. "Well, it seems our guild is popular today. And for a change, it's not because the guards are bringing complaints!" The gathered adventurers laugh at the guild master's joke. "Tell me of yourself, traveler. Why do you wish to join our family?"

Ingris, finally with her waterskin back, rubs her hands briskly with the salt water. "The dead shed no tears, and neither do we, but tears must wash away the blood." She says matter-of-factly. She pauses, however, as the half-elf arrives. "We do, indeed, seem to be a growing company! They call me Ingris. Ingris of Clan Rizwan. The name shall be known greatly some day, I thinks!"

"Indeed." Della stands, and the discussions around the room grow hushed as she speaks. "As is our tradition, to join our guild, one of our own must vouch on your behalf."

Gilbert stands near Vos and Ingris. "I'll vouch for these two. They have shown their bravery and skill, as well as their willingness to aid those in trouble."

"I'll vouch for my nephew." Mortimer says. "His training and dedication has earned him our recognition."

A man in yellow work clothes, contrasting with his chocolate-brown skin and black hair, smile as he stands near Istvan. "I will vouch for Istvan. One Who Is Free will be right at home with us."
"Daddy!" Gilbert sets down the young girl on his shoulder, so she can stand next to her father.

Della nods, and turns back to Leilatha. "Now tell me of yourself. I want to know why you came to us," she asks with a smile.

Caught a bit off gaurd. Leila stamers " well umm" she thingks {i dont guess 'the seers sent me' was not going to work here. } she shrugs. "Ever scince i was a liitle girl growing up listing to papas stories i wanted to be an adventurer befriend the dragon. Fly in to battle and rid the villagers of the tyrant. " she pause. " when the seeres called for me and told me to follow the river to the fork, find my nest. I really just could not get out of there fast enough" she thought she would leaver the whole 'im an orphan looking for a home' to herself. But truly when the seeers told her to look for a nest, and well nests are home to many a critter, it just sounded... Right." So here i am. "she presents the leter. " the writer here said they vouch for me" at this point she was not to hopefull the letter held any waight. "I dont know if it means anything to you" she held it out to the lady if she wanted to take it.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:40, Fri 23 Oct 2020.

Della looks over the parchment, before pausing as she sees the last part of it. "She's still alive? That's unexpected..." She rolls the letter back up, and returns it to Leilatha. "If she's vouching for you, there's no way I can refuse you. Welcome to the guild, Leilatha!"

The rest of the guild cheers as you are officially accepted. "We'll get your amulets ready by tomorrow. Then, when you're ready, you can pick a quest on the board. But for tonight, it's time to celebrate!" Another cheer from the crowd, as drinks are offered all around.

OOC: You can find the Board in the Game Map link, in group 9.

Istvan turns to the man in the yellow work clothes. "So Noric is well-known to you, sir?" he says, attempting to start up a conversation with the man who stood up for him (and Noric).

The man nods. "Corlis? Why don't you go ask Gilbert to tell you how he beat the slavers?" The girl nods, and runs off to grab a book and quill.

I'm Royce. You've heard how Gilbert freed a group of slaves before joining the guild? Well, I was one of them." His gaze grows distant as he remembers what his old life was like. "It was... it was tough, surviving there. I'm alive today because of two persons. Gilbert, and an old priest of Noric who taught me how to survive. From how to hide from an angry master, to how to swipe food without being noticed."

Istvan nods. "What was the old priest like? Is he or she still around? Were, or are, they human? Dwarf? Other? Just curious..."

After The Bandit Hunt

Spriggy entered the Pheonix's Nest exhausted from all of the excitement of the day. Or rather, the night. Sure, he hadn't actually done much himself other than carry the magical compass, but it had still been exciting to watch the street open up and the guards corralling all of the thieves from the thieves' guild. He hoped that he would one day be able to learn the trick to open up the street like that...

Spriggy was still daydreaming of such powers when he sat down at a table in the hall and realized he should probably pay attention to what he was doing. He had chosen a spot near the notice board so that he could consider taking up one of the challenges listed there. "You guys interested in joining me on one of those adventures?" he asked the people nearby. "They all need to be done, so they might as well be done by us, right?"

---

Istvan and Kharla, feel free to be one of the people Spriggy is talking to. Or feel free to overhearing him asking someone else.

As Spriggy says that, the guild's barman, Garth, adds another poster to the board. Before returning to his place, he pauses next to Istvan. "You should take a look at the graveyard job. You're probably better placed to help them then the other clerics."

Board is up as Game Map 9.

Istvan looks at the board. "Wow, I want nothing at all to do with 'demonic problems,' but yeah, 'solve the mystery of the graveyard' doesn't sound so bad, what with being able to turn undead (if necessary) and all (although of course it might just be ordinary grave-robbers)..."
This message was last edited by the player at 20:51, Tue 26 Jan 2021.

"So is that how the Blades work?" Kharla's head turns casually, side to side, taking in the scene and atmosphere of the Phoenix's Nest, "Mercenaries are we?"  Her eyes follow Della as she disappears deeper into the guildhall.

"Ha!  Didn't need my help at all to reach the den but she took my offer anyway.  Interesting..." she mumbles mostly to herself before focusing on her companions and the board they are before.

"Devon, Devon...I think I know Devon...wait, maybe that was Davon," she muses aloud before grinning, "Well the graveyard's as good as any I suppose.  Certainly the reward is enticing.   Is that due to the amount of danger involved?  How do we find out?"

She looks to Istvan and Spriggy awaiting to be shown how things are done.

"I think the price is determined by a multitude of factors," Spriggy mused. "Difficulty, urgency, distance, time commitment, how rich the employer is, etc. But I'm still new here too, so I can't give much detail myself..." He shrugged and looked to both Istvan and the bartender in case either had more information to lend.

"But yeah, I would be up for investigating a graveyard if you guys are." The Fantom Orchid mission also sounded intriguing, but he opted to remain silent about it. He wasn't ready to start a debate about it when a perfectly wonderful consensus seemed to have already been made about the graveyard job. Besides, Spriggy always did love a good mystery. He absentmindedly patted the strange songbook tucked in a pouch at his side while he was reminded of all the undeciphered magical knowledge it undoubtedly held.

Garth nods. "It's in the town of Chestnut Hollow. A small mining village about a day's travel from here. They had an earthquake a couple of days back, then... they noticed a bunch of bodies tried to unearth themselves from their cemetery." You frown at that comment, causing Garth to sigh. "They're Buryers."

Suddenly, you understand why he said Istvan, a cleric not affiliated with the Ghostwalk, would be the best for this quest.

And you can learn that reason in the World of Arete thread, under the Ghostwalk entry.

Otherwise, you can move to the Graveyard Mystery thread for your trip.

A week passes, after you've returned from Chestnut Hollow...

Since they're a bit hard to read, the two new posters are saying:

Red kobolds are laying traps in the mines. 5$ per head. Ask Werdrid Cleaverhorn, captain of the guard of Terrill.

The Village of Tonnsborg needs help. 512$. I found this letter on a frozen barbarian, on the plains of Nuat, west of Standing Stone Keep. -Drake

"I'm not interested in collecting bounty on the heads of beings who have enough brains to construct traps," says Istvan. "A village that needs help seems like it might be worthy of assistance, though..."

By the time their group was ready to discuss their next mission, Spriggy had gone on a shopping spree or two between the mining camp and home. He even had purchased a trusty little pony to help him carry supplies. Sure, it might not be as impressive as Kharla's horse, but Lydia (the pony) seemed perfect to him.

More notably though, Spriggy had taken some time to add extra sheets of paper to his trusty songbook. He wanted more space for notes and new compositions. In the mine, when he had added the demonic words to his spellbook, it eventually caused his mind to make several intuitive connections that had eluded him before. He connected some of the demonic syllables to the some of the sounds from the mysterious song lyrics within and managed to create some new and potent words of his own. He had unlocked the capacity to cast a few actual spells! He hadn't had a lot of time to experiment yet, but he was certain his new skills would come in handy on their next mission.

And speaking of which...

"I would be up for helping the village," Spriggy replied to Istvan. "Or any of the older ones too, if they are still available. "Demonic Problems" pays well and we have experience with demons now, but... it is still pretty intimidating. I am good with whatever Kharla picks though, I suppose." He wasn't necessarily opposed to doing the kobold mission, especially since they had Kharla to deal with any traps. However, to make much money on it would involve a lot of killing. They would need to kill 103 kobolds to make more than they would on the frozen barbarian mission.

As the trio entered the Blades guildhall the red head shouted, "Hear ye you warriors, defenders, and avengers of wrongs! The town of Chestnut Hollow no longer lives in fear thanks to efforts of we of the Blades!"

To the bar she went and dropped a sizable purse there, "Twas my inaugural quest and a resounding success it was though undead of all manner and an actual demon rose to face us.  But none were a match for my companions and I.  Not to celebrate such a victory would be a grevious wrong!"

"And so we shall!"

She happily discussed with the barkeep how to organize the party
This message was last edited by the player at 14:36, Sat 06 Mar 2021.

Spriggy grinned at Kharla's gusto and slapped ten coins down on the counter when she went to plan a party with the bartender. "I'll gladly donate a keg to your celebration. That way everyone can help us party." He gave Kharla and the bartender a mischevious wink, then went back to his seat.

The redhead makes a point of speaking to all and ensuring everyone's cups remain full.  She recounts the adventure, describing how Istvan held the undead horrors at bay and both he and noble Spriggy counter the doom called forth by the Word Demon.  Everyone seems to have a grand time of it and she ensures the staff's tip is generous at the end of the event.

13:21, Today: Kharla rolled 11 using 2d6+1 ((6,4)).
- woohoo!
✴ On a 10+, choose 3.
• You befriend a useful NPC.

Istvan pick one!
Spriggy you as well as this benefits us all

(I'll pick You are not entangled, ensorcelled, or tricked. Because that would be bad.

So... how much money was spent? Just 50 from me?)

I'll Choose: You gain useful information.

Your tale draws a lot of interest. Corlis notes down your adventure, while Mortimer quizzes you on the altar and the demon. He congratulates you on your method to defeat the Word Demon, and explains that the mine's shape probably weakened the altar's spell, and stopped it from fully reanimating the bodies in it's reach.

During the party, you also get to know Nicholas Drake, one of the guild's rangers. He's a slender guy, with neck-length black hair. He's a long-time member of the guild, who usually works north of the Sunrise Peaks.



Later on, when you talk about the village needing help, you easily find Drake to ask about it. "That? Yeah, I found the message just yesterday. The messenger had the guild's fee on him, barely, so I brought it to Della. I'm not sure how he died, as cold as the nights are these days, they weren't 'arms fall off and shatter on the ground' kind of cold yet. And it didn't look like he was in a fight either.

I do know about Tonnsborg, though. It's a small hamlet on the northern shores of the Mistshroud Ocean. They're of the Zeai tribe, and more interested in fishing and hunting then by the slaving and raiding that gave barbarians their bad name. Heck, they worship Gianam the Sword! That's a rarity north of here.

If you decide to go there, I'd be willing to join you. We're not exactly friends, but I've traded a few times with their headsman Ventas, and I'd hate to know he's in trouble."

If you take the Raiders quest, you can hire Nicholas Drake as a henchman for a share of the loot.

"I think we would be fools not to accept your assistance," Spriggy said to Nicholas. "With your skills and knowledge added to our team, I think our chances of success just skyrocketed. Perhaps we can convince one or two others to join our cause as well. If you happen to know anyone who would be a good fit for our journey to Tonnsborg, let them know we are looking. We'll share our spoils appropriately, of course." Following his own advice, Spriggy went to spread the word around the guildhall and town that they were looking for some assistance. Particularly in the magical-skill area. He felt it would be great to have someone to help give a bit of equilibrium to his newfound wizarding skills...

---

Recruit roll. Hoping for an Adept. Is Nicholas Drake a Protector and/or Warrior-type hireling?
22:02, Today: Spriggy Glompgut rolled 11 using 2d6+3 with rolls of 3,5.  Recruit roll.
On a 10+, you’ve got your pick of a number of skilled applicants, your choice who you hire, no penalty for not taking them along.

Who do we have available to choose from? What are their Skills, Cost, and Loyalty? (I don't mind helping to flesh out the characters if you provide their stats. Making interesting and unique hirelings can be a ton of fun! For instance, a "Priest" could take the form of a medical doctor, an herbal witch, or even thread-and-needle necromancer. The possibilities are endless!)
Hirelings: https://www.dungeonworldsrd.co...-the-game/#Hirelings

At Drake's advice, you make sure to gear yourselves up for a trip into the cold. The next morning, the three of you, accompanied by Drake and Charlotte, head off toward the coast...

OOC: And into the 'Raiders of the Black Ice' thread.

(Inside Gorrid's dream...)

Dark green all around, the looming shapes of the pines of Death Forest...
Small trails, sneaking through the trees...
Hidden in the dark, a low temple...
Chains and blood, prisoners sacrificed by dark shapes...
An evil scythe, floating before a glowing crystal...

'Help me...'


------

You sit together in the guild's main room, a week after you returned from your trip through the frozen wastes. Mortimer has been studying the construct you brought back ever since, but it seems he's far from done figuring it out.

You're discussing what job you could take, when a very pensive Gorrid walks into the room, heading toward your table.

The knight had been happy enough to join the guild, and with the vouching of his teammates, and especially Drake, he'd been accepted as a member.  The yarns he'd spun of his time in the service hadn't hurt either.

The man who walked down the stairs that morning looked different.  Much less certain than the group had ever seen him.  He motioned for everyone to join him at a table.

"Something has happened to me.  Gianam.  He spoke to me.  I mean really spoke to me, not just impressions.  And not just him, someone else too..."

He looked around at the uncertain glances of his friends.  It wasn't that they didn't believe him, but it was obviously somewhat of a stretch.

"Look!"  He touched the table with his finger and suddenly it took on a purple glow.  "The protector has long blessed me with the gift of healing, but never have I had such powers as this, and I know somehow that I can do more too.  But that's not what matters.

There is a place.  A dark place.  Even in my dream, I could smell the decay.  A forest where the sun never touches the earth.  And somewhere, deep in that forest lies a temple.  A temple of dangerous evil.  There are prisoners, sacrifices, a crystal.  And there is a woman.  She called to me, somehow in the dream.  She is in danger.  She needs me.  She needs *us*.

I know this is Gianam's will.  I have no choice but to follow, but I fear this task may be too much for me to face alone.

I cannot promise payment, though if it would help, I will offer my share from our last adventure, though I doubt it would compensate for the risks we will face.  But I fear if this evil is not confronted soon, it bodes ill for us all."

The paladin looked around the table, his face a mix of fear, determination and hope - hope that his friends might accompany him.

"I was given a name.  'Death Forest' - does anyone know it?"

The redhead regarded her companion with some concern, recognizing the weight Sir Gorrid struggled with.  But once payment was mentioned her familiar grin spread once more, "Posh!  I never became a Blade for coin but to serve against tyranny and oppression.  Put your coin purse away and think no more of payment to we."

"But death forests....I have heard of that recently when I was," she appeared to catch herself and glanced quickly to each before hesitantly continuing, "aaaat the...library.  Yes.   It was definitely at the library."

22:57, Today: Kharla rolled 11 using 2d6 with rolls of 6,5.  Spout Lore.
- holy &@!# that may be the first Spout Lore roll she's actually made
This message was lightly edited by the player at 04:34, Sat 17 July 2021.

Death forest is indeed well known to everyone in the province, as it marks the entire southern frontier. It's also reputed as a hideout for bandits, dark elves, and strange monsters. Crossing it on the road usually requires some protection, but exploring it's depths is a task for experienced adventurers like you.

Kharla, you can have a +1 to serve as scout while traveling through the forest.

Spriggy raised an eyebrow at Kharla skeptically, but didn't comment on her alleged library excursion. He knew better. He shared a similar sentiment as her toward Gorrid's need for help though.

"If your need is genuine, say no more. My skills are at your service. Just let me know what I can do to help." The bard definitely enjoyed getting paid, but it certainly was not a requirement for him to help a friend and spread some good on the world.

"Of course I'll come too. It not only sounds important, but if there are prisoners, let alone sacrifices-- that sounds like the purview of the god of Freedom."

Sir Gorrid smiled.  When the barbarians and goblins had overrun him and trussed him up like a turkey, he had never imagined that things would turn out so well.  This was truly a fine group of comrades - even friends.  He'd been astounded when, after he'd mentioned a week ago he planned to save his coins to eventually pay for some better armor, Istvan and Spriggy had immediately offered to loan him the funds to purchase it now.  The three's quick agreement to go chasing after what many would have interpreted as an old man's bad dream reinforced his view.

"It's decided then.  I need to go check on my armor.  It was supposed to be done today.  Someone should also pick up some extra rations, some spare gear and perhaps some additional medical supplies, though I seem to have more skill in that area now than I did yesterday...  Anyhow, I fear we don't have much time.  Can you all be ready to leave in a couple of hours?  I'd like to get a few miles under our belt before nightfall if we can."

He waited to see if there were any questions or concerns, then hurried out.  The town's armorer was a short man, but his lack of height was more than made up for in the breadth of his arms.  The paladin was unsure how he kept his dark bushy mustache from being singed as the sparks flew from the piece of molten metal he was hammering at.
"Ach, Gorrid.  Glad yer 'ere.  Suits over on 'at trunk at a back.  Gots ta sword engravin just what ya asked.  Puter-on an I'll fix up ta straps, final like."

The armor actually wasn't overly ornate.  Very much focused on function over appearance, but there was a small shield/sun/sword emblem on the breast plate that made the old fighter's heart feel warm.  He'd had plate like that once, but it had been destroyed in a battle he preferred to forget.  It would be good to feel the weight of well-forged steel on his frame again.

Once properly outfitted, he thanked the man and paid what he was owed, including his former set of scale.  "May it protect your next customer as well as it has me."  Then he hurried back to the small room above the tavern where he'd been given a bed.  He carefully unbuckled each piece of the plate, checking the pieces and making sure all was in order.  His hands weren't quite as nimble with the buckles as they once had been, but he did well enough.  Armor removed, he then continued to strip the remainder of his clothing, standing body and sword both bare to the room.

Taking the pitcher of water and a cloth from the corner of the room, he washed himself clean, then took up the sword and knelt such that the sun from the room's small window could fall on both the blade and his body.

"White sword for justice, White shield for the weak, White light in darkness.  I shall not eat nor sleep until the woman whose voice I heard is made safe or those responsible for her fate have met justice.  So I vow!"

He kissed the sword, then stood and returned it to its sheath and quickly re-garbed.  At least he'd had a few days off...

Down to just 5 coins, and no more scale mail, but I've now got a nice shiny set of plate!
(and owe 100 coins each to Istvan & Spriggy)
Boons:
- An unwavering sense of direction to the location of the woman whose voice I heard                       - A freedom from hunger, thirst, and sleep

The group finish their preparations for the day, ready to leave early the next morning...

In the Ghostwalk Rescue thread.

It's been about a week since you've returned from your necromancer hunt... and just a day since you've finally gotten your just reward for stopping the trio of assassin. It was faster for Buckthorn to be accepted into the Phoenix Blades, than it was to get the bureaucrats ruling this place to count your coins.

Things have been pretty calm lately, and you're getting the urge to get back on the road. And in the corner of the room, the job billboard is almost calling out to you...

OOC: For the new players, the Group 9 Map is the billboard announcing current jobs offered to your guild.

Are we able to sell the mirror?

In addition to the 20 coins each reward for the assassins which is evenly dispersed, I believe the unexpended loot we gathered is currently as follows:
Animated bird and racquets, (worth 6 coin)
Necromancy notes
Enchanted Mirror
Kharla's map
2 Bags of books
Gem (5 coin)
12 coins from assassins
a few daggers
three vials of poison
medallion of iron in the shape of a feline skull
10 coins from sniper & mage
alchemical bolts (3 uses - beat monsters resistance or damage small objects)
Spirit Shackle Bola

We had also collected the following, though I believe these are now used up/worthless:
Components, (worth boat passage)
Cursed scroll
Teririgt's Book

What can we get for the mirror?  What can we find out about the medallion - is it magic?  Is it worth anything?  Are the notes or map worth anything?  Who is laying claim to the other stuff?

Sir Gorrid perused the board.

"I'd rather protect villagers than chase cabbage thieves or get involved in chasing jewelry"

Buckthorn curiously eyed the group's adventure haul, from a respectable distance, he certainly didn't want to step on any toes and felt largely undeserving of much reward regardless.

After a great deal of thought, it was a difficult decision on his part to speak up and ask about retaining the spirit-shackle bola. He had quickly become fond of the simple weapon since discovering it amongst the deceased aqua-mage's belongings at the height of the assault on the town. It was much more natural to wield than any forged weapon and most children of the Stinking Mire had some experience with them from an early age.

He stepped forward, gesturing toward the rune inscribed hunting instrument and spoke;

"Might I?" he asked in an unsure manner, looking first to Sir Gorrid who seemed preoccupied reading the postings on the board and then around the room at the others for any confirmation or disagreement.

Russel picked up some daggers, "I can replenish with these and give Spriggy his back."
"Oh, any others among us know the proper usage on these poisons? If not, I hold on to them till they are needed."

"I am fine with you keeping that bola, Buckthorn, so long as you are okay with me keeping the bags of books we found. Same with those poisons, Russel. Good books are always useful. And Russel, feel free to keep the daggers. I haven't really been using physical weapons lately and still have a couple spares anyway. You will make much better use of them, I'm sure." The bard then took a good long look at the jobs board. "Honestly, all of these tasks seem just fine to me. I'm just itching to get back out there again."

---

I believe the necromancy notes were destroyed during Idi's prayers to gain insight from their deity. I would like to keep the two bags of books in my cart. Anyone can use them. I have a lot of books now. Just let me know and I will mark off a use for you. (Or if you want to claim an entire bag to carry yourself, that's fine too.)

I would like our guild wizard to examine the mirror before we sell it to ensure there is no way we can access the pocket dimension. There could be a little treasure hoard in there. Or information about other enemies. Or a portable secret hideout/treasure vault for our party now that the necromancer is dead. GM, is the guild mage able to confirm or deny any of these possibilities?

I am adding 20 coin to my sheet for now for the assassin bounty. I will add the rest when we know what the final total is.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:38, Mon 21 Mar 2022.

The mirror is nicely made, but not inherently magical. There's no way to use it to reach wherever the necromancer fled to. Still, you can get 8 coins for it.

The medallion is a holy symbol of Olgienar the Predator Lord, a rival of Thovis who achieved 'godhood' thanks to demonic powers. It's not magical, and not really worth anything in this country.

The map is barely more than scribbles, and hardly worth spending money on.

The poison are one vial of Belladona extract (causes paralysis for a while), while the other two are vials of Serpent's Tears (lets you roll damage twice, and take the better roll).

So total extra coin with selling the mirror and gem is 35 coin.  So that should be 5 coin each I think?

"More than just jewelry; disrupted commercial negotiations? I'd bet there's more to it than an opportunistic theft. But the villagers plight does seem a noble cause. Hmm." Idi turns away from the board to ponder, and distract himself with loot goods.

"I tell you friends, that medallion is a foul thing, we'll all be better without it. I'll see to its destruction, to the glory of Thovis."


Spriggy gave me those Necromancy notes as a sacrifice, yes. I'd like to get rid of the medallion too from a purely IC perspective, unless anyone objects. Probably have it melted down or otherwise ruined, with a blessing.

I'll wait until we have a final accounting on the bounty $$!

After reviewing the option available, "I'm ready for whatever the rest of you want to do."
"I'll just keep an eye on Spriggy's cart if that's what needs doing. Not being on the town watch's hunted list for a while is fine by me."
Russel added with a grin, "Man needs a break once in a while."

"So, what are the group's thoughts on bringing some extra help along with us for our next mission? I personally think we probably have enough on our team as it is. But if anyone has a specific reason we should bring more along, I am certainly willing to entertain the idea." Kharla, Leo, and Irene were certainly helpful on the last mission, but Spriggy didn't think they would be necessary for the next one. Besides, those particular three might be busy with other things anyway.

"Also, I was planning on buying another healing potion and a couple extra antitoxins before we leave town. However, those supplies would be a bit superfluous. So if anyone is a bit short on cash for some gear that would really help them out, I might be convinced to share some of my earnings. All of you surviving improves my own chance of surviving."

"Kind of you to offer, but I can see to what I need for now."

"I'm comfortable with the composition of this particular squad.  Only thing that might be useful is a tracker - if we're chasing animals, might be helpful in trying to track them down or find their lair."

"I think Buckthorn and I can maybe help with that," said Spriggy. "There are plenty of animals with keen senses of smell that should be good at tracking. Like a a dog. That is one of the few shapes I know. I am sure Buckthorn has a lot of additional options too."

The paladin shrugged.  "Works for me..."

He went to the temple to pray before the party left, cleansing himself and undergoing his ritual preparations.

Gianam, I go now to protect those of a village from the predations of a beast or set of beasts that may be unnatural.  Please Guide my sword to defend the innocent there until the threat is resolved.  Defend me from tooth and protect me as is your will.  I will not eat nor rest until the villagers are freed from this threat

Quest: Defend the village from the 'beast'(s) and remove the threat
Boons: Invulnerability to tooth & claw; A freedom from hunger, thirst, and sleep

You go over your preparations one last time, before heading out to the harassed village...

OOC: In the Animal Frenzy thread.

It's been a few days since you returned from Freefield, well rested from your trip and the small party that followed.

As you gather in the main hall for a late breakfast, you notice the small Corlis standing on her tip-toes at the bar, to talk to Garth. "She's still not back?" She asks, a worried look on her face. The barman, only shakes his head, the only sign of worry his stoic demeanor allows.

The voice attracted the paladin's attention, so he wandered over to the bar to see what was wrong.  "Who were you expecting to be back?"

Who, or what, is a Corlis? (Google is not being helpful :>)

"Yes, who?" echoed Spriggy. He had enjoyed relaxing over the last few days, but was now beginning to get the itch to do something again. Shopping for odds and ends for his cart and befriending chipmunks in the park could only preoccupy the bard for so long. He was starting to want to feel useful again.

---

I had to look it up too. She is the daughter of the guild alchemist.

Corlis turns her blue eyes toward you. "It's Charlotte! She didn't come back!"

"She took a job for a noble." Garth explains. "Simple translation works. I'd expect her to write to us if the work takes longer than normal, but we didn't get any news."

"Something went wrong!" Corlis adds.

"Could be something mundane; a lost letter, a challenging set of work," Idi says just for those sitting near him at the table. He regards the delicate pastry in his hand with a slight scowl though, thinking. "But, it may not be. And it wouldn't hurt to check, would it?"

"We can check on your friend, if it's worrying you," Idi offers more loudly, then quickly looks around at his companions realizing he'd spoken before actually checking. But he continues nonetheless. "Charlotte, right? What noble is she working for?"


Would we know who "Charlotte" is? I didn't see the name listed anywhere, but maybe I missed it.

Buck is only half listening, seated at the table, he's been quietly busying himself playing with the flame of a cheap wax candle.

By the time his concentration breaks, Idi has taken the words right out of his mouth, it likely was a matter of lost letters. Buck licks a finger and thumb, snuffs out the hot wick and fully tunes back into his surroundings.

Spriggy looked concerned about the news regarding Charlotte. "Charlotte? She helped us with the Black Ice mission up north. That's where I found the amulet that lets me speak with animals. She was a big help back when I was still new to casting spells. Even if there is no danger, I would still really like to check in on her. I feel like I owe her at least that much."

---

Charlotte is a hireling (Adept 2, last we knew) that helped in a previous mission. Spriggy and Gorrid know her for sure.

"Do you know which noble, or where she went"

"It's sir Tiariai. A minor noble who makes his money through his brewery. His job request was rather vague, only mentioning he needed someone to do translation work." Garth explains, before giving you the directions to Tiariai's estate.

"Thank you, Garth," Spriggy said before addressing his fellow party members.

"If everyone is alright with it, I would love to go investigate this matter. I am ready to leave immediately, but understand if anyone has any last minute details to take care of before we leave." The bard also went to grab one of his books about nobles to see if it had any other relevant details about Tiariai or their family.

---

Do I know anything else about Tiariai?
13:46, Today: Spriggy Glompgut rolled 6 using 2d6+4 with rolls of 1,1.  Sprout Lore, with book - Tiariai.
Haha, fail! +1 XP!

"If there's a chance she ran into trouble, probably best to leave sooner rather than later.  I can grab my gear and be back here in about 10 minutes."

Looking through your books, you find a mention of the Tiariai family, dated about three decades ago. Apparently, the family was very interested in Dwarven brewing practices, and tried to replicate some of their equipment in the capital.

The explosion shattered so many windows, that in punishment the family was ordered to move their operations where their still landed, about two hours east of the capital.

After gathering your gear, you're ready to head there...

OOC: In the Missing Guildmate thread.

Buck packs a few tasty sundries into a cheese cloth for the trip out of town. He subtly tips Garth a coin as he leaves to join the others and begin the next journey.

Russel stashes a few lumps of sugar away for the pony and follows the others.

Wondered the forests for many years in bear form. It took a long time to dig her mind out of a bad transformation. Finaly she stumbled upon The fork in the river, the Phoenixes Nest. "My first mission and i failed terribly." She said to her self. She say there on the rivers edge for a long time, days even, before she mustered the courage to face the phoenix again.

With Charlotte safely returned, Buck wastes no time dwelling on the unsavory sides of their latest endeavor and heads straight for a hot bath and whatever fragrant oils he can procure. After a good soak he gets himself a bottle of mead, a whole roast fowl, and an entire loaf of sour bread before he slips away from the group for awhile.

Garth just nods solemnly at Leilatha's downcast look, serving her a sweet berry tea. "The first tasks are always the hardest. I recommend finding a few companions, while practicing some simple quests. It will give you a chance to learn more about yourself, and your strengths."

Almost as if on cue, Spriggy slid into a seat near Buckthorn, which also put him near Leilatha by default. He opened his spellbook/songbook/shapeshifter-forms picture book in front of his friend on the table. It showed some detailed spell notes with all kinds of intricate diagrams and symbols. The bard was visibly excited and spoke with a lot of energy. "Buckthorn, I think I have had another breakthrough! Remember when you were coaching me on how to turn into a mire centipede? Well, I used those lessons and think I have managed to come up with a new spell. It's my most advanced one yet, and not without flaws, but I think I have figured out how to turn just about anyone into something else! At least temporarily. It's not as reliable as the animal bonds we have, but it could still prove to be useful, I think. Think Gorrid will let me test it out by turning him into a ladybug?" He grinned at the thought of his own rhetorical question.

"Oh, and speaking of that mire centipede, I learned another new form too! A rattlesnake that scared the bejesus out of me when I was strolling along a trail agreed to let me share its form after I helped it build a little shelter out of some rocks. I could try teaching the shape to you, if you would like. Or perhaps one of the other ones I know?"

Almost as if he had only just now noticed Leilatha, he turned and smiled to the woman and decided to get her opinion. "If you could be any animal, what would it be?" Perhaps it would help him choose future polymorph shapes or shapeshifting shapes to seek. Little did he know that Leilatha was already skilled in the shapeshifting arts as well.

---

If it is relevant, I would like to use my A Port in the Storm move. I was last here before our latest mission.

quote:

A Port in the Storm
When you return to a civilized settlement you’ve visited before, tell the GM when you were last here. They’ll tell you how it’s changed since then.

Sir Gorrid raised an eyebrow at Spriggy's gest, but did not comment.  In truth, being a ladybug wouldn't necessarily be a horrible thing if he could retain his own senses and make it to the other side of the appropriate door before materializing.  He'd seen similar spells used to good effect in past sieges.

He enjoyed the comradery of the pub from the side, nursing his mug and absorbing the friendly atmosphere without actively participating, knowing that the road would be calling again before long.


In terms of loot:

#67:

The gyro is worth 15c, with a weight of 1.

#95:

Once you've gathered the three gyros

#102:

metal keg of dwarven stout, a box of hardtack, and a forgotten gold bracelet (worth 50c)

#307:

Tiariai has a good looking dwarven-made broadsword that could be sold for 25c, as well as a pouch containing 100c, two vials Bloodweed, and his signet ring worth 75c.

#307:

The bottle itself is made of brass, covered in dark bumps. As you pick it up, you realize some of them are decorative beads, but the rest are drops of condensation. Despite how hot the place is, the bottle is unusually cool to the touch. It also has an impressive stopper made of Lapis Lazuli, worth at least 20c on it's own.

4 gyros x 15 coin = 60 + 50 + 25 +100 +75 = 310 coin + whatever the dwarven stout and bottle are worth.  Is anyone at the Phoenix Nest able to identify the bottle?  (Or even Spriggy now that he's got more time to investigate)

I presume Russel wants the Bloodweed?

"The Bloodweed could be useful and having it already could save having to find a vendor of it," stated Russel. "However, if it is more useful to have the coin, I'm not against selling it."

I could use some more arrows. Having a way to strike from a distance is always a good idea."

Buck gives the assembling crowd a narrow side-eye as his head hangs low over the pile of food before him. He continues to heartily stuff himself through Spriggy's short speech and takes a long drink of mead in relief when the elf turns his attention to Leilatha, ultimately dodging the bard's question of him.

Buck fights the impolite urge to change tables and doubles his efforts to remain busily eating.

"Thak you Garth," she took the tea and watched the coming and going of the Phoenixes. As a merry band of adventures joined her,she heaf them speaking of their loot. She tried not to listen but find his topic of pollymorphing. She did not know if the elf speaking about turning someone named gorrid in to a lady bug was in jest or in truth. But then he directed his next question at her. "NOT a bear" she blurted out with out thinking. "Really it depends on the task at hand. If you need a fighter wolves and bears. Scouting. Birds of pray if you need an aireal. Or i do like squirrels or chipmunks if you need somthing small. Ther are so many its hard to say "
This message was last edited by the player at 02:19, Tue 02 May 2023.

Spriggy was a bit surprised by Leilatha's adamant response at first, but got the sense it would be a good idea not to pry. At least not yet. But when she got to the part about chipmunks, he couldn't help but grin. "Oh, yes. Being a chipmunk is fantastic. As long as the area is safe. It sounds like you speak from experience?"

Spriggy, having been focused on Leilatha, hadn't taken note of Buckthorn's peculiarities. He did, however, pause his conversation about chipmunks just long enough to respond to Russel. "I think it would be good if you keep the Bloodweed, if you can make use of it. We'll be fine on cash, I'm sure."

Turning back to Leilatha, he commented, "Our team tends to end up with more coin than we can easily spend. Unless we get frivolous, of course." Which was certainly fun sometimes.

The paladin ambled over to the table

"What matters most is the good that we do, not the material rewards.

That said, there's one job on the board that seems to promise some of each.  A malevolent weapon that is difficult to destroy seems like something that would be best dealt with before it causes serious problems.  And given the size of the reward, someone apparently sees it as a significant problem already..."

He then turned to half-elf and gave a partial bow.  "Sir Gorrid of Torr at your service milady.  Pleased to meet you"

"Let's hope the amount offered isn't also written in error" Buck responds to the big knight between bites off a large leg of fowl, referring to the mistakes in the posted bill. He coughs, pausing a mere second before tearing back into it.

"Let's also hope that it is actually wanted to be destroyed and not just located for someone to then use", added Russel.
"The reward does look too good." After a thoughtful pause, "or there are details we really need to know ahead."

"Aye, i do have some experince, i am a druid by trade." Raiase her eyebrow at the words more coin than we can easily spend. "Is that so? Do you get frivolous often then? "

She smiles at Sir Gorrid of Torr "likewise good sir. I am Leilatha Xilfina of Bitbriar. It is nice to met you aswell. It is good that you do good works not just for coin. I find i don't have much need for it myself." Leila had not yet looked at the jobs yet. "Do you think this powerful weapon can in fact BE destroyed?"

"It is most important to know all the facts before you set out. Who posted the job? Are they wealthly enough to pay? Are they honest enough to truly want it destr3 or are they dirty enough to seceratly want it for them self." she jusy voice the thought as they came to get mind. "If you don't mind a little company i might join you?"

Sir Gorrid glanced over at the barkeep questioningly, nodding his head toward the druid.  When he got an affirmative nod in reply, he smiled at her.
"Additional hands are always welcome, from my perspective."  He looked around to see if his companions had a similar perspective.

"Certainly meeting with the one who posted the job would be our first step.  We can make a firm decision once we know more.  As for how to destroy it, if the gods wish it gone, there will surely be a way.  The first step will be to acquire it.  Once we have it in our hands, it's likely that the path to ridding the world of it will be more clear."

"Buckthorn, pleased to meet you." Buck says and adds a polite nod to Leilatha, introducing himself after finally finishing his large meal. He drinks the last of his mead, pushes a platter of bones to the center of the table and wipes his hands, then for the first time turns his focus to the ongoing conversation.

"And I am Spriggy Glompgut," added Spriggy when introductions were being made to Leilatha. "I would also welcome your assistance. If fact, I believe your assistance will save us having to hire any assistants for assistance." He smiled kindly, then returned o the subject of the task at hand.

"I agree that we will need to ask some questions before officially taking the job, but I think we can manage to find a way. If nobody has any objections, should we head over to talk with our prospective employer?"

Sir Gorrid nodded his assent, then stood back to give those at the table some room to stand up themselves.

It had only been a brief respite, but it was better to be out doing good than holed up in a tavern.  He'd known too many good men who'd ended their days in drink.  His final day would have his hand around his sword.

"It's been posted by the church." It takes you a moment to find where the voice is coming from... mostly because the ghostly knight, Irene, forgot to make herself visible. "The captain of the temple must have used his squire to write the poster. I'm quite certain the reward is accurate... though for such an amount, the church most be completely out of ideas..."

Garth, the barman, nods solemnly. "From my understanding, the scythe is some sort of artifact. They've been searching for it's weakness, with no luck."

"Hmm," said Spriggy as he thought about what Irene and Garth had told them. "We might not end up being successful, but I do still think we should try. If nothing else, we could probably rule out a few more options for them. Should still ask a few questions of them first though."

He looked around at the assembled team. "Is everyone alright with trying our hand at this job posting? New crew included?" He looked at Leilatha to make sure she knew he was considering her a part of the team as well. "If so, we should probably finish up any errands we might have and head over to accept the job soon. Anyone need to do anything before we head out?"

"My inclination is to learn about the job and then decide what additional preparations might be useful."

"Yes, most prudent." Buck says in agreement with Sir Gorrid. Despite his sincere tone, Buck's slumped shoulders and lack of expression bely his expectations of at least a few more nights of oiled baths and a luxurious mattress.

"I'll check the cart and make sure that it is ready for another trip."
With that Russel went ensure that the cart and pony were in good shape. He grabbed some hard sugar candy to treat the pony with during the upcoming trip.

Well it seamed the merry band of adventures have welcomed her in to the team She Finished up her tea and thanked Garth. "So, to the church then?"

Sir Gorrid nodded.  A visit to the church was a welcome notion even without the prospect of work.

With your next decided, you head out to the church...

OOC: In the thread 'Scythe of Innomable Rites'