City of Lonetree IC

[Gorgon_Heap]

On a cool breeze you scent livestock and decaying hay, with a hint of boiling barley. Your stomach rumbles, as do those of the men walking beside you. Their shoulders are slumped and their feet drag heavily through thick grasses. Their gear is tarnished, their cloth threadbare. Every inch of them seems covered in old mud or fresh dust, with visible rust-colored bits of blood stains. Sightless eyes stare out from greasy faces and matted hair, considering nothing as your companions shuffle through
endless oceans of vegetation. They are a weather-beaten and sorry lot.

You’d pity them if you were not just as sad and exhausted.

Since that desperate battle and the collapse of the command, you few survivors cared for your wounded and decided to scurry south as quickly as possible to avoid additional reprisals, though you had only been doing what you were paid to do. Still, as mercenaries – by definition disposable troops – betrayal of an employer should not have been completely unexpected. And you doubt he survived any more than your commanding officer (former commanding officer), who’d died in an elaborate trap of fired pitch and stampeding ogres.

For weeks since that terrifying day you have plodded on toward the rumored safety and job offers of the great southern trade city of Lonetree. Twenty-two survivors out of one-hundred seven soldiers.

Countless farmsteads and travelers’ inns have passed behind you in the past two days, marking the outskirt settlements of the city, but only as you crest still another of the countless small hillocks do you finally spy the city itself for the first time.

You join a steady stream of other travelers on a road of packed earth. Many are local farmers in billowing pale linens, escorting various animals or pulling small carts heaped high with vegetables or flax. They call out to each other and chatter amiably in a tongue-twisting dialect and all but ignore you despite your obvious armor and weapons.

It’s after midday yet the massive northern gate is packed with traffic passing leisurely through in both directions. Amidst the cacophony and press there are city guards – only three that you can see – who seem in no rush to speed things along. Many people they wave through, some they talk with, and they peer through the belongings of a few others. Each man, all between 20 and 30 years old, is wearing simple, thickly-padded armor and carries a spear and heavy sword at his side. Their tabards match the banners flying above the 20-foot gate: Light green with a black, white-trimmed tree in the center.

They gesture to each other, keeping a wary eye on you, and the closest steps forward and says loudly as to be heard over the din, “State your purpose,” though his accent makes it difficult to make out, sounding like Shtaht yah paw-puss.

The guardsman and his fellows look you over, seeking insignia, with a mixture of trepidation and disgust in their eyes …

[Gorgon_Heap]

All:

As we begin, feel free to make Kno(History), Kno(War), or Kno(local) checks to see what you already know about this city. Or you can wait until you're inside and see what you can ferret out.

[Quietus]

At the head of the 22 survivors, Toma hands off his spear to a nearby ally before stepping forward, unarmed but for spikes on the back of his gauntlets. Any breeze lightly ruffles the hem of his dirty cloak and tabard, showing the company's insignia. "Grayton's Black Band, here seeking food, shelter, and employment.", he answers stiffly, speaking up to match the guard's volume. He can understand their boredom, having served time at gates himself in the past. Boredom was good. Boredom means there's no trouble. By their abrupt wariness, they're clearly expecting there might be trouble here.

The weeks of marching have taken their toll on Toma. His clothing, usually well-kept, is patched with dirt and grass stains. His usually lean build is visibly thinner than it had been a month previous, and his hair has grown long enough to just begin to bother him. Even the bandages wrapping his arm beneath the cold iron chains are dingy, having been cleaned and re-used one time too many. Like others in his company, he's looking forward to getting somewhere to sleep that has a roof, and taking a nice long bath.

[Gorgon_Heap]

A look passes over the guard's face. Mercs, eh? When given confirmation he waves Toma over to a small field desk and waves at a small pile of wrinkled paper sheets held down with a helm, and a quill and inkwell.

Your name, unit and numbers. He says more quietly, And for a few coin I'll be happy to have my men spread word your Black Band means only honest, legal work in our fair city.

As filthy soldiers clot the road, villagers, merchants and various other passersby ignore or pretend to ignore the heavily-armed group.

[Quietus]

The guard's reaction to their profession doesn't faze Toma, who answers with a shrug and a bland, "It's a means to an end." When asked, he provides all the information required for the guard's logs, rattling off the names of each of the people he's traveling with. When things had gone downhill, he'd doubled his efforts to ensure he knew who all was left, and when possible, got some idea of what each was capable of.

Once the formalities are taken care of, Toma signs his name to anything that needs it, and leaves a small stack of five gold sitting on the table - the most he can afford without being on the streets at night. "It would be appreciated.", he answers, stowing his much lighter gold pouch away. "Anything else?"

[Gorgon_Heap]

The guard can't keep his surprised avarice from his face as he sweeps the coins into a purse and stuffs the paper gently into a buckled satchel bearing an embroidered "Lone Tree." Why I should say not, sergeant. He politely suggests a number of inns and gives street names, but says the Dusty Wheel Traveler's Quarter has a number of vacancies.

He gestures the entire unit through the massive gates and you enter one of the city's outer crossroads, from which a calamitous market square, warehouse districts, stables and pens, inns and taverns, temples and countless other features of healthy trade can be reached.

[Saidoro]

A smallish plain-looking man steps forward from the group, generally unremarkable apart from the snake laying across his shoulders and the fact that he is the only unarmed man in the band.
Well, come on everyone, let's get in there.
He waves the group forward, ignoring the fact that he has absolutely no authority to do so.
I'd like to sleep somewhere with a roof tonight and we aren't getting any closer to that just standing around.

[Gorgon_Heap]

The young blonde corporal turns a dissaproving eye toward the sorcerer. Adalyn is his height and her once-fine clothes are stained and sun-bleached over a slightly-rusted chain shirt. She leans wearily on a fine crafted halberd. We should await orders from the officer in charge, Cyrus. We have made it this far - we should not allow discipline to collapse while in the heart of of an unknown land.

But even as she focuses on Cyrus other soldiers are inching away, using thier meager savings on fruits and dates, fried animals on sticks, and cups of mulled wine.

[Grishnakh]

As soldiers start melting away left and right Hob takes the oppertunity to sneak away as well. A small, non-descript fellow wearing drab commoners clother exept for the Band's badge, it should not be hard to get away before anyone notices him, just blending into the crowds. He would catch up with the rest of the Band later, now he wanted to breathe the city once more, they'd spent to long in the field in his opinion.
Walking through the city he can't help but let old habits take over. Maybe he would do something about it, maybe not, but before long Hob finds himself looking at the city through the eyes of the burglar and thief he once was. While walking the citystreets, enjoying one of those roasted animals (at least he hoped that was what he was eating...), he eyes the homes and shops, trying to figure out what the city's specialties are, what it's riches. Which houses and shops would pay off if he would decide to help himself to a 'five-finger discount'? Where would he only get his ass handed to him, or turned in? Maybe he'd even hear something of use to the rest of the Band...

Soooo... just gonna make a few rolls I think would help with this, DM discretion on results :smallwink:, just take what you need, leave the rest.
Search: [roll0]
Spot: [roll1]
Gather Information: [roll2]
Knowledge (local): [roll3]
Appraise?: [roll4]
Hide: [roll5] (to get away unnoticed and remain so)

[Gorgon_Heap]

Everyone notices that not only do the locals speak a strange dialect and have their own fashions, the buildings are, for the most part, a bizarre fusion of architectural styles from the closest major nations - some of which clash horridly while other examples are quite stunning.

With everyone's attention elsewhere, Hob easily vanishes into the crowd.

Hob:

Search: This city is obviously a trade hub, and you recognize people and wares from many kingdoms and regions. The buildings' odd styles make for very interesting alleys and sidestreets, as well as rooftops. They also, however, prove a bit confusing to the burglar's mind. Each building seems wildly different and it will be challenging to learn how to operate in this city. You are extremely pleased by seeing few city guardsmen - even in the market square. Many merchants seem to employ personal security.
Spot: You do, in fact, observe a cutpurse - a thin male dwarf - marking one of your men.
Gather Information: It is hard to hear in the din of the market, and you have trouble understanding anyone anyway.
Knowledge (local): You have heard of this city - nothing more.
Appraise?: Gadgets and gizmos applenty. Whozits and whatsits galore.

[Grishnakh]

Noticing the cutpurse marking out one of his companions, Hob decides to shadow him for a bit and see what happens. On the one hand he doesn't want to interfere with his 'colleague's' business, besides maybe he could help Hob figure out the local customs among thieves, but on the other hand, the man was targeting someone from the Band and he should help him... Well, if he can't hang on to his belongings, maybe he's better of without them anyway. That was the thief in him again. With a little shake of his head and a shrug he sets of after the cutpurse.

To follow the guy without being noticed;
Hide: [roll0]
Move Silently: [roll1]
To keep an eye on what he is doing, if he signals any others or just acknowledges them, to find out any signs that might be useful, and maybe even see what he manages to take if anything;
Spot: [roll2]

[Gorgon_Heap]

Hob:

Using the roiling mass of people - mostly human but with a large minority of dwarves and a fwe other standouts - Hob remains hidden from the dwarf he's following. The dwarf is young, he realizes after a few minutes, with a short, trimmed beard and uninteresting, featureless clothes. A pair of human men, dirty-faced and rugged, wander the market in large circles, somehow always managing to get into a scuffle or stop to make conversation with a passerby just as the dwarf nears with a deft plunge of his hand into a pocket.

Hob continually turns aside behind shoppers, sometimes pulling some wares in front of his face to obscure the view. His stature works to his advantage here just as the dwarf's does. After almost an hour the two men vanish - Hob can't be sure where they go - but the dwarf slides into an alley, looking over his shoulder.

He stops abriptly when he faces forward again becasue he is face-to-chest with an unhappy-looking watchman. The watchman, a ndusky, bearded fellow, grimaces and gestures at the dwarf with his spear. Hob can't hear if they say anything, but the dwarf hands the guard something. The human almost looks pleased and then stands aside, letting the dward take off down the alley ...

[Havelock]

The young blonde corporal turns a dissaproving eye toward the sorcerer. Adalyn is his height and her once-fine clothes are stained and sun-bleached over a slightly-rusted chain shirt. She leans wearily on a fine crafted halberd. We should await orders from the officer in charge, Cyrus. We have made it this far - we should not allow discipline to collapse while in the heart of of an unknown land.

But even as she focuses on Cyrus other soldiers are inching away, using thier meager savings on fruits and dates, fried animals on sticks, and cups of mulled wine.

Like as not, the band is done for Fash being the one saying the words, ever cynical, could be no surprise. 8 out of 10 getting themselves killed, including the high command, that's a massacre rarely seen. Sellswords value their lives too much to join up with a unit with that sort of history. Unless we could pay them a lot with money we don't have.

[Grishnakh]

Storing all the new information carefully Hob continues after the dwarf, hoping he will lead him to some sort of guildhouse or something. It could be dangerous working a city where you don't know all the currents.

[Gorgon_Heap]

Adalyn grimaces at Fash. If you wanted to leave you've had weeks to do so. We are here now, so I suggest we investigate our options before considering disbanding.

The crowd continues to swirl around the group as vendors cry out for attention.


Hob:

Please give me new Hide and Search checks.

[Havelock]

Where else would I go? I make my living by stabbing people from below the belt

[Gorgon_Heap]

Two passersby glance nervously at Fash's decleration and move swiftly away. Adalyn merely nods as if he'd verified her point.

Hob:

... wanders down the alley, but gets the feeling the guard's eyes lingered on him as he slipped past. Away from the chaos fo the market, he finds following the dwarf in an unfamiliar city very difficult. And whetever happened to those other guys?

[Grishnakh]

Hmm... Hob didn't have a very good feeling about this. A shadowing target that suddenly get harder to track, guard seeming to take notice of him (even while he is trying not to be noticed), unknown factors such as the 'friends' that might suddenly pop up somewhere. It was time to be elsewhere, it never paid to be careless, certainly in his line of work. Time to get back to the Band and see if they managed to find a decent inn to stay at.


Assuming he finds his way back to the Band:

Hob looks for Adaryn. He had always been more comfortable reporting to the corporal than the sergeant, better to follow the line of command and stay beneath notice, even inside the Band.


Assuming he finds the corporal:

Hob walks up to the corporal and gives a casual salute. "I've been stroling around a bit, see what I could see." he says this with a significant glance, indicating he's been scouting. "Seems our good City Guard does not look unkindly upon those who ask favors in a monetary fashion. Of course that could be limited to some specific factions, but it might be useful." Of course, he was not about to mention why he had been looking around and he hoped the corporal wouldn't know about his past, if so he might figure it out anyway. Well, he'd reported what there was to report for the moment, time to enjoy a good mead!

[Privateer]

Trusty was tiredly stepping through the street dust, and Arrid was equally tired on top of his horse. His eyes, though, were lively, excited to finally have arrived to the city.

"What the bloody hell?" the dwarf groaned as he saw the soldiers beginning to slowly scatter into the streets. "Discipline, Band! Who is the ranking officer here?"

[Gorgon_Heap]

Hob continues to feel unease about the theives he saw, and makes his way back to the Band in about 20 minutes. The troops are all still wandering about. You report to Adalyn, who says intel is a good start.

At Arrid's outburst, mercenary soldiers give each other nervous and noncommittal glances from their respective activities.

Uncertainty in the air along with the numerous marketplace odors, Corp. Adalyn shouts out over the din, Black Band, bring it it! Black Band!

Worn out mercenaries of a half-dozen races and various abilities and experiences almost reluctantly reorient into a semicircle.

[Privateer]

A brief examination of his comrades' faces revealed the ugly truth - there really were no commanders left in charge. His beloved Band was turning into an amorphous mass of tired armed men, even sadder looking than it was during the retreat.

Somebody had to step up, but Arrid was hardly a natural born military leader. It had to be someone with undisputable fighting prowess, a charismatic badass every soldier looked up to. Yet, there were none of those evident in what was left of the mercenary company. If he didn't act, Arrid thought, the Band would be no more.

"Listen up!" he yelled. "I, Arrid of Red Cave, take command of The Band, until an officer is located. If none are found by tomorrow, we will elect a new officer, as customary in a free brotherhood. Any objections?"

He looked over the troops, flushed with anxiety deep inside. What if they did not accept his command? Could it be that he only accellerated the dissolution of the group? He dared not show what he felt, however. In his best firm voice, Arrid continued.

"Anybody still wounded gather by that wall, I'll see to you. All capable scouts report to me immediately. Everybody else group over there and await orders."

Arrid waited, hoping his commands were being followed.

[Grishnakh]

As Arrid seems to take command, Hob is torn between his habits to don't get to close to the officers and to always make sure he is close to any clerics. In the end he steps up to Arrid, but keeps his silence, waiting for the man to adress him.

[Privateer]

Arrid gave Hob a small nod of acknowledgement as the scout approached. He appreciated the sniper's support, and felt as if he had just stepped back from the brink. Now that he had one man's support, the rest were more likely to follow.

Arrid waited, hoping for the trickle of acceptance to turn into a deluge and for the Black Band to be organized once again.

[Havelock]

Fash leaned up against a wall, standing motionless throughout the scene with a hint of amusement on his face. Sharp ears might catch him muttering something containing the words "Drow" and "flayed".

This was not unusal behavior from the gnome, his role in the command structure had always been unclear, he did not command anyone, but nobody commanded him either. At one moment, he might be in the midst of enemy lines, cutting hamstrings and achilles tendons, then turn invisible and reappear back inside the black band's ranks, spreading confusion among enemy soldiers.

Grayton had put some discipline on him after the other officers had questioned why habits such as this was tolerated, but that would seem to have accompanied the old commander to his pyre.

[Gorgon_Heap]

There is a moment's hesitation, and then soldiers begin to talk all at once. Soldiers are accustomed to taking orders, but mercenaries work for money. Arrid is surprised when a flood of goodwill and invective is suddenly hurled his way.

"Over my rotted corpse will I be led by a priest!"

"Better you than me, Arrid!"

"What's our next step?"

"And just how in the hells are you going to pay us?"

"Hey! Where's my changepurse?"

The civilian audience clears even more space between their business and the arguing mercenaries. Vendors glare as the commotion robs them of attention. Several armed individuals, only a few of them wearing the Lone Tree, start to gather in anticipation of action with the band of beaten and threadworn soldiers.

[Havelock]

If someone observed Fash, which was not all that likely, given his small stature and honed instinct to disappear from view, he would have seen the gnome suddenly vanish. His reapparance in the middle of the assembly should not be surprising, he did that all the time in battle. Without the priest, you'd be a rotted corpse by now. cold eyes with no colors but a shade of gray trailed across from one nay-sayer to the other. Who else is going to pay you? By looks of it, the city guard doesn't have the money to hire enough people, or not paying enough to hire enough people. Which noble or merchant do you think would want to hire guards from a ragged band of mercenaries who quite obviously wasn't up to the challenge, whatever it was? Oh, I'm quite sure that Toma would distinguish himself in whatever passes for a fighting pit in this place, but for most of you? They'd just throw you in to be mauled by a bear to get the crowd in good mood for the main event. Fash did not exactly make many friends in the company, and the ones he had tended to be the bad sort, those one might suspect running from some law or the other. I wouldn't fancy my chances elsewhere in your shoes, the company gets paid to put itself in harms way, and you get your share to do your best to insure that harm happens to whoever isn't us. The answer to how to pay you is easy, find someone in need of our services, not so easy to do, but that's what it is.

[Privateer]

Taken aback by the opposition, Arrid was thankful when Fash stepped in to help. This leadership stuff was going to be tougher than he thought.

"He's right," Arrid picked up Fash's speech. "By ourselves, each of us is just a ragged, broke stranger in a town where nobody knows us. Together we are a brotherhood. I don't promise you heaps of gold out of thin air. When the Band makes money, you get paid. It's up to all of us to make sure that happens."

"Nobody can stop you if you want to leave, but think about what it would be like to have to come back when the Band is back on top and raking in gold like we use do, and look your former friends in the eye, and be known as the spineless piece of dirt who deserted his brothers in the moment of need. Do you think anybody will want a man like that covering his back in a fight?"

He paused to let the words sink in.

"Now, we get the wounded healed, find a place to stay for a while, organize watches, then learn as much as we can about this city and try to find work."

"Hob and Fash will come by shortly and take some of you on missions. The rest of you sit tight, you'll have orders shortly. That is all." Arrid punctuated the period, looking over the troops, before turning to the more experienced two. He was thankful they survived. This would've been much more difficult without seasoned veterans.

"Look, guys, I'll send any free soldiers to ferret around the city and look for possible jobs, but before we take anything, we need to know about this city, who treats hired swords well and pays good money, who is strong, who is weak, who is allied and who is fighting. We can't afford to be on a losing side right now. I know it's not a straight scouting mission, but if anybody has a chance with it, it's you guys. Take a couple of loyal soldiers each and do what you can. Priority one is information, priority two is money, if some is coming your way. We will set up shop in one of these inns for now."

Then Arrid proceeded to those troops who seemed loyal.

"You, first watch. You, backup shift. You, resting shift one. You, resting shift two. Rotate every six hours. Guard the wounded and your resting comrades. Watch for pickpockets and thieves."

"Everyone else, scout the city, do your best to find the Band work, post up notices. If you get an offer, bring it back to all of us to consider. Meet up here at night. I'll try to get us shelter and food by then. If all else fails, I will feed everyone tomorrow morning with spells."

Assuming the above goes fine and nobody objects, Arrid next approaches every inn owner and tries to convince them to give common room and meals for the 22 and their animals in exchange for some of his clerical spell castings, as they lack gold to pay for it. If one fails he will try another and another, until he finds a willing owner or runs out of inns.

Diplomacy rolls (not sure how many inns there are):
[roll0]
[roll1]
[roll2]
[roll3]
[roll4]
[roll5]
[roll6]

[Grishnakh]

In stead of rushing off to find some men and scout the city, Hob hangs around Arrid until the rest of the Band starts moving (hopefully according to orders). When there are relatively few ears to hear (none would probably be to much to hope for) Hob steps up close to Arrid: "I might have some information already, if you're interested. Considering the strength of the different factions here ... I wouldn't count on the 'strong' arm of the law. It would appear they are on the pay roll of the shadier operations in the city."

[Privateer]

The cleric listens to Hob attentively then nods.

"Thank you, brother. That's one piece of good news we had in a while. I guess a city with weak law should have a use for men like us, eh?" He smiles. "Find out whatever else you can."

[Gorgon_Heap]

With nothing else to do but stay together or get lost in a strange and dangerous mix of powers and cultures, the member of the Band decide wordlessly to remain intact.

Some off with one stealthy gnome or another while others shuffle along behind Arrid and Adalyn as they slowly make their way - into the early evening - from one inn to another.

You are all amazed by the somewhat haphazard design of many of the buildings - strange and often hideous interbreedings of very different styles and methodologies. Others are more plain, and once in a while you see somehting, an obvious blending of cultures, that somehow conveys elegance and beauty in ways others do not. You see massive stained windows, gigantic supportive ionic pillars, thrusting buttresses and rising tiered rooves all vying for balance.

Other buildings are classic examples of those found in distant kingdoms, clearly displaying which elements from the mongrels could be attributed to what homeland.

You begin at the Dusty Wheel, which was suggested by the city's gate guard. An average, though spacious place, the keep tells you they certainly have room for everyone, but gives a high price for room and board, from which he will not budge. Arrid notes the otherwise obsequious man is frightened of the idea of bartering for rooms rather than taking coin.

For hours you implore, wheedle and demand. The keeps in this town certainly know their business. As dusk commences you ponder the two best choices:

Kanak's Commons, a dwarf-owned stout stone structure of three floors. His price is a single silver per person (and animal) per night, so long as Arrid does spells as needed for other customers and performs masses for fellow traveling dwarves. Kanak's offers two (very) hearty classic dwarf dishes per day, but no rooms - each floor of the building consists only of several large common rooms. (Arrid realizes this is a prefered way for traveling dwarf clans to stay together.)

The Rusty Cudgel, is an ancient, ramshackle building of two floors that couldn't rust to begin with as it's all made of timber. The two morose and ancient propietors bemoan their poor luck, lost children, foul weather and everything else they can think up as you speak with them. They offer lodging for two silver per night (nothing for the animals) and the food is piss poor. On the other hand, you would have complete run of the place as there are no other guests and won't be so long as you paying and maybe help out with some repairs.

[Privateer]

Finding stay was more exhausting than Arrid thought, and took longer. Having finally narrowed down their options, he decided to settle at Kanak's for the night. The structure looked more defensible, and prices were lower.

"As needed" clause and having to do services bothered him a little, but at least for tonight he had plenty of spells left, and would be able to say a quick prayer or two from his dwarven childhood. They needed to save money, until a source of income was found.

He handed the dwarf two gold and five silver pieces to cover tonight's stay for everyone, stabled his horse and invited the Band to move in. The dwarven-style common rooms would be a perfect, defensible position, Arrid thought. He posted a guard at the door and went down back to the square. Arrid made sure to scribble "Band at Kanak's Commons" on several building walls at the square, so that soldiers out scouting could find the rest of them.

Finally, back at the inn, he washed up for the first time in days, and went down to enjoy a wonderfully delicious dwarven meal. Feeling better, Arrid tried to strike up conversations with other patrons and the innkeeper to learn what he can about the city, waiting until his friends show up or he is needed for mass or healing.


Gather Information: [roll0]
EDIT: Sweet! :smallsmile:

[Grishnakh]

As everyone starts moving off Hob is left with a small group of soldiers, which he supposed should help him find what they could in the city. Even so Hob looked more miserably by the minute. He very much preferred working alone (or with like-minded if on a job) and he certainly never wanted any sort of command. That what you get for sticking your neck out. With a sigh he turns to the men with him. Well, I guess we had best get to it. We are supposed to find ourselves some work, so we are going into the city and talk with people. Keep your eyes and ears open. Anything you hear might lead to something so store away any rumors and stories you hear. If you hear something promising try and find out who we should see for the job and what it might gain us. Oh, and one last thing. Anyone of you get drunk in stead of doing their job will be doing the laundry for a week!" He had heard officers yell stuff like that, he just hoped it would work for him as well. Turning toward the city he had the sinking feeling this was going to be a very long afternoon.

All kinds of rolls to get info (I guess you'll roll for the men?):
Gather Information: [roll0]
Spot: [roll1]
Listen: [roll2]
Search: [roll3]
Diplomancy?: [roll4]
Sense Motive?: [roll5]

[Saidoro]

Cyrus had spent the day with Arrid, demonstrating his magic to the innkeepers.
He now sits in the common room, feeding scraps from his meal to a smallish green viper and watching Arrid ask around.
The sorcerer didn't join in his leader's questioning. As far as he was concerned, a city was somewhere you went now and again to sell your wares but otherwise didn't visit, and he wasn't about to do the extra work of investigating the place without good reason.

[Gorgon_Heap]

Hob wanders off, his shoulders slumped in self-pity as two unfortunate soldiers, one human and one elf, follow in his wake. They are tired and judging by their muffled commentary have little interest in performing this investigation right now. Why not in the morning? they grumble. He can also tell by snippets of conversation they resent Hob's ignoring them.

Still, the city proves an interesting place.

Hob learns ...

Very little he didn't pick up earlier. Though if he's interested in returning at a later time he carefully notes the purveyors of jewelry, inks and exotic spices and where they will be spending thie respective evenings. His distraction with baubles is doing little to forward their intelligence-gathering. :smallwink:

Hammel, the human, is too tired and bored to care about this search, though he's canny enough to keep his eyes on anyone armed. Shadowpine, on the other hand, swollows his not-insignificant pride to politely ask about the city. What he learns he reveals to anyone in the Band without hesitation:

Lonetree is a mere 200 years old, and is a neutral crossroads of a sort in the middle of a vast plain. Here, four mighty nations, each hundreds of miles distant, can trade safely with each other without stepping all over each others' borders. Ostensibly a free and independant entity with its own government and Watch militia, the city is controlled and partially owned just as much by those foreign powers as its own merchants and nobles.

The four nations, each nearly 300 miles away, are The Council of Thendris (generic dwarven kingdom), the Kingdom of Houn (generic Oriental Adventures nation), Khalt (generic middle-eastern/Persian nation) and Felowan (generic European Cormyr-style nation).

It is widely thought there are at any time about 19,000 living within the city walls, but depending on the season and proximity to a faire there could be as many as 8,000 more. The many tiny hamlets, road inns and farmsteads surrounding the city for miles in every direction account for perhaps another 10,000 Lonetree natives.

There has been a notable lack of Watch officers in the ccity lately, and many are the grieving families of missing officers, but none know why this may be. The call for mercenaries began leaking from many quarters of the city all at once some two months ago, and scores of them have been arriving.

[Gorgon_Heap]

Kanak himself is a furry little bear of a dwarf, with a barrel chest and long black beard and hair. He glady speaks dwarven with Arrid of all things dwarf. Happy to play host to a fine and devout fellow such as yerself, Master Arrid! The good coin of a road-weary dwarf buys all the comforts home in my Commons, even if he's got all these tall-uns carrying his luggage.


Arrid learns ...

Lonetree is a mere 200 years old, and is a neutral crossroads of a sort in the middle of a vast plain. Here, four mighty nations, each hundreds of miles distant, can trade safely with each other without stepping all over each others' borders. Ostensibly a free and independant entity with its own government and Watch militia, the city is controlled and partially owned just as much by those foreign powers as its own merchants and nobles. The grandest and most deliberate and honorable of those kingdoms is, of course:

The Council of Thendris
- Generic but very large and powerful dwarf nation
- 300 miles to the southeast, massive and craggy mountaintops hollowed out for clan-cities
- Represented in the city by the Adamant clan
- Exports gems, gold, silver, iron/ore, stone, jewelry, metal pottery

There are thousands of dwarves in the city from all walks of life, and many owe their fealty to the Council. Several trade costers and merchants might well be interested in hiring mercenaries as security guards or caravan protection.


Other members of the Band are ... displeased. The 6-foot ceilings are uncomfortably low and the common room, 20 by 40 feet of emptyness broken up by only two long tables with heavy chairs, is lighted only by the massive fireplace. The food is the best Arrid has tasted in years; boiled goat in a heavy mushroom sauce filling a hollowed-out loaf of bread, with a giant mug of thick, dark ale.

The humans largely complained the sauce was too rich, while elves ate the bread and tried to remove chunks of mushroom without any sauce or meat at all.

[Privateer]

Kanak was a fine fellow, Arrid understood quickly. It was an utter pleasure to converse with their host, and he was happy to do it until other duties called.

Arrid felt at home, the comfort of a dwarven dwelling and its cozy low ceilings was uplifting. He completely failed to understand why the other soldiers failed to share his excitement of it, but did his best to comfort them.

"What are ye talking about?" he exclaimed while conversing with another soldier as he went about to check on everyone, "This is the best hospitality we've had in ages! I guess some'd have to crouch a little bit, but look at the food; and we're only paying a pittance for it all. Or, rather, I am paying. Tomorrow night, we can vote on where to stay next, and someone else can pick up the tab until we got some money coming in to the Band coffers. Which hopefully will be sooner rather than latter." He smiled knowingly and winked, reassured by his earlier findings.

In excellent spirits, the dwarf cleric went about looking to the wounded, both from the Band, and among other guests, as per their deal with Kanak. He used his healing belt first, to conserve his combat spells.

When it was time, he gathered the other dwarves and gave a simple Travel ceremony, figuring this would be uniting to all in the inn more than his other passion - War. Arrid was not much of a formal priest, as he never did get around to learning much about religion. Still, his heart was usually in the right place and the words, while not formal, were usually enough for his mercenary brothers. So he hoped they would be enough for this audience.

Arrid talked about the different paths that brought them all together, the luck that followed them all in making it alive, the need to help out your fellow travellers on the path. To close out, he wished everyone luck on their future roads, and asked the higher powers to look favourably on those present. He finished the mass with a short chant, calling for a blessing(OOC: casting Bless) on those present to fill them with courage and give them confidence for the road ahead.

After finishing mass, Arrid went to locate the scouting parties, he hoped would be returning by now, to see what they learned.

[Gorgon_Heap]

Arrid happily joins his fellow dwarves, leaving the Band in its dark discomfort. He speaks loudly and merrily for several minutes, expressing simple well-wishing to fellow dwarves while never actually invoking a deity. He blusters through, high on ale and fellowship, reminding each of the 11 other dwarves present of all the times they, too had fallen asleep at church and failed to remember anything.

[Havelock]

Fash refused to take anyone with him, and all he said was something cryptic about scouting, as if today's speech had used up whatever words he had to say for one day.

He spent the hours until nightfall exploring the city, in wider and wider circles around the inn, using his eyes and ears while moving about taking care to not attract any attention to himself. Knowing the terrain was half the battle, using it to take out the enemy before he could respond was the other half, or at least that's what his instincts honed in the deep places of the world told him.

Taking 10, so relevant checks ending up on Hide: 28, Spot and Listen: 23, Sense Motive 21. For knowledges this caps out on 10 due to being untrained

[Gorgon_Heap]

Fash disappears into the shadows of the city, and spies randomply and any and all from under carriages, deep alleys and mingled within crowds.

Fash learns ...
Quite a lot about random people's personal affairs. He overhears some minor rumors about local noble houses, of which there seems to be three to five. From what you pick up the mercantilism and business transactions that occur in this city are vast and varried - not being a businessman, you find it bewilderingly complex. The four great powers have massive possessions in Lontree, everything from properties to influence within city guilds. Trade between the four, the city, and countless other city-states and nations makes Lonetree a very busy place. One problem you have with this is the language barrier, as a dozen tongues are being spoken at any given time. At one point, near a tennement district, you observe a couple burly men threaten a poor cobbler in an obvious protection racket scheme. But you are shocked when you realize another rough customer with an eye patch, standing by himself 20 feet away whittling a piece of wood, has his sole eye directly on you. A lookout!

You creep back into the shadows of the alley with your heart in your throat, return to the market, and then Kanak's Inn. It's late, but you are given some cold stew as the others finished their meals an hour ago.

Everyone gets a fair night of sleep, thanksful to be indoors for once even with the other issues they may have with the place. Morning comes and, since there are no windows, it's well after the eighth bell before the Band begins to rise.

[Privateer]

The meditation and prayer went quite easy that morning. After a full meal and a nice, long sleep in the dark room, Arrid felt great. He even caught himself whistling a silly tune at one point while going about morning routines.

After having a private talk with the scouts, changing the guards, and designating some soldiers to go on leave and have some free time in the city today, Arrid addressed everyone.

"Alright, Band, yesterday was a fine day. We learned a bit about the lay of the land here and got some pointers on possible jobs. Today I and a few other brothers will follow up on these leads and see if we can get closer to some offers."

"Now, some of ye ungrateful sods," the cleric grinned at his friendly jab, "have been bashing our dearest Kanak's wonderful hospitality. Me, I think this is the finest establishment, but I understand some of you can get weary of crouching. So, these two soldiers," he volunteered the pair that was most vocal about their current accomodations, "are tasked with finding an inn acceptable to all of us by noon today. And if they cannot find one for the same price or lower as our dearest Kanak charges us, they will personally make up the difference every day until the Band starts making money, if they still want us to move, that is. I think it's fair, given the Band's finances."

"The rest of you have your duties, be it rest or guard."

Then Arrid assembled the more experienced fellows to talk details.

"So far we know of the four powers. By the sound of it, the dwarven Council of Thendris is the biggest and most trustworthy. It might be a safe and profitable bet to try to work for them. But before we do that, we should probably find out more on them and their enemies. At the same time, we are critically low on gold. I got some tips on merchant caravans that might need protection from Kanak. So the plan is to try a one-time caravan escort job first to fill our coffers, and then look for a better assignment with the Council, if they check out."

He looked over his friends to judge their reaction to his plan.

"Today I'm heading to the caravan merchants to see if we can get a contract. If you guys have other ideas for finding work, pursue those. If not, start asking around and scouting the Council interests. Let's make sure we won't get burnt working for them. Meet back here at sunset."

Having set things in motion, Arrid got onto his own assignment. He asked Kanak for directions to the merchants he previously mentioned and headed down there. The dwarf politely introduced himself every time and asked to speak with the owners. Once admitted, he tried his best to make a good impression without overblowing the Band's current capabilities, and get an offer. By his judgement, he tried to push a bit where applicable, to see if a better price can be get, then promised to consider it with his comrades and moved on to the next merchant. While waiting to be admitted and chatting with the owners, the cleric tried to ask a bit to learn about that particular merchant and caravan.

Once the sun is setting or he is out of leads, Arrid would return to Kanak's.


Not sure how many caravans there are and how many I'll have time to cover, but here are some rolls:

Gather Info: [roll0]
Diplomacy: [roll1]

Gather Info: [roll2]
Diplomacy: [roll3]

Gather Info: [roll4]
Diplomacy: [roll5]

Gather Info: [roll6]
Diplomacy: [roll7]

Gather Info: [roll8]
Diplomacy: [roll9]

Gather Info: [roll10]
Diplomacy: [roll11]

[mrcarter11]

Keylin was a lanky person. The type to be called "All arms and legs", the chain he carried was currently on his back as he wandered into Lonetree. He had been following a mercenary group for about a week, tracking them as it were. He'd talked to many people who'd seen them, and with that information had followed them all the way to Lonetree. A few coins slipped to the local watch, allowed him to learn the name of the mercenary band and their numbers.

From what Keylin could tell the group was without a commanding officer, which was a spot that Keylin knew he could fill. He had the smarts, the ability, and the desire. He didn't know who was attempting to lead them currently but he had hoped that whoever it was, would be willing to step down once someone presented themselves to be capable. If it came to blows, Keylin was more than confident in his own abilities of war.

It had seemed luck was on his side, as he had learned the name of the band, and someone had left several postings in the main area of the city about where the band was staying. This would allow Keylin to find them with relative ease, which is something that didn't happen often in the life of a mercenary. Finding the inn in which they stayed, Keylin decided to not make himself known at first, instead he sat and waited. Learning what he could about them all.

Keylin had noticed that one individual, a dwarf actually seemed to currently be leading the group. The dwarf also happened to step out early in the day, so Keylin did the same. He was after the same information that the company had likely been looking for themselves, but Keylin wanted to know firsthand.


Figured I'd roll a few things here.

Knowledge Local [roll0]
Knowledge War [roll1]
Gather Information [roll2]

The War check is assumed to be Keylin looking for information about conflicts near by that could use some mercenary help.


Returning a little later than wanted, Keylin was pleased to see that the dwarf it seemed he'd need to speak to, came in right around the same time he had. The dwarf seemed smart and Keylin had hoped that they'd be able to come to agreement about Keylin taking up lead here.

Keylin approaches the dwarf as non threateningly as possible to introduce himself.

"Hello there. By any chance would you be the CO of Grayton's Black Band? And if so, is there somewhere we could speak in private?"

[Gorgon_Heap]

Arrid uses what Kanak told him to find dwarf merchants, caravan masters or brokers, but doesn't stray too far from large thoroughfares - the city is huge and bursting at the seams, so it would be too easy to get lost or overwhelmed.

He learns of two possible caravan jobs. One is a massive commodities shipment due to leave in three days for Thendris. The dwarves already have employed a number of private guards, but for shipments such as this additional security can't hurt, though they will drive a hard bargain on payment.

The second job is a private merchant moving three wagons of goods to Felowan. This merchant cannot afford so many soldiers, but is interested in talented help. He wishes the goods to leave the city within the week.

Either of these contract will involve roughly two months of travel across the plains (one out and one back) as caravan protection.

Arrid is quite pleased he's opened negotiations on these contracts.

[Privateer]

Back from the long day of bargaining, Arrid was relaxing when the stranger came by. He looked the man over. Quite capable-looking, perhaps he was in charge of something and wanted to enlist the Band, or wanted to join.

"That would be me," he nodded.

There were no private rooms, of course, so Arrid took the man to a corner.

"Arrid. Good to meet ya. What can I do for you?"

[mrcarter11]

Once in the corner.

"My name is Keylin and it's a pleasure to meet you. Now, if I understand correctly this company needs a new leader. Someone who knows how to get em motivated, someone who knows how to lead from the front and from example. And well, I believe myself to be that person. I have a fine interest in taking command of this talented company of warriors.

[Privateer]

The dwarf's eyebrows lifted, as did a corner of his mouth. He looked around, thinking it a prank, but it appeared the man was perfectly serious.

"We're not a gang of peasants, see," he said in a soft, calm voice. Arrid didn't want to be confrontational, just trying to make the stranger understand. "You can't just walk off the street and expect to lead us, no matter how good you are."

"The Band will soon be electing a new leader, it's true, but we'll be electing from among ourselves, a brother in arms..." Arrid looked the man up and down for a second.

"Tell ye what, you seem capable. Why don't you join the Band, get friends with the brothers. Do something to impress them. Then, as a member, you can run for leadership, and if you really are capable, you should be able to get the support you need to win."

"If that's what you want, the scribe will write you in."

With that Arrid called the blond corporal over to process the newcomer.

[Gorgon_Heap]

Adalyn approaches, looking rather bored. When Arrid tells her his idea, she is nonplussed. A recruit? But ... we can't pay him. And there are certain contractual responsibilities you probably don't remember from your own sign-up. Assuming you bothered to read the contract. She quickly bites her tongue, though you're not sure why - seemed an honest and straightforward comment. Perhaps you should arrange a test to make certain he's not untrained, and see what he can offer us.

A few other men are present and become interested when they overhear the corporal's usually steady voice rise. Hammel and Shadowpine are not present, and in fact have been gone all day, because they complain too much and are looking at inns.

[Privateer]

"Hmm, well, tell you what, Kaylin, why don't you head over and meet everyone, chat a little, as an observer. And we'll see here what it takes to get you in."

Arrid then takes Adalyn aside.

"Explain it all to me in detail, please."

[mrcarter11]

Keylin walks over to the rest of the group and begins trying to make small talk.

[Havelock]

Who are you?

Fash was not known for subtlety. And in his mind, anyone dropping down to smalltalk was suspicious.

[mrcarter11]

Keylin shrugs

"Not for a lack of trying nor following it seems I may be a new recruit who is considerably ambitious.

[Havelock]

I don't see how we can go on recruiting people without a captain to put his seal on the contract. I don't see us having room for some random pit fighter either the last comment seemed directed at the unusual weapon.

[Gorgon_Heap]

Fash's "greeting" to the newcomer is fairly customary. Several men, out of boredom and in the interest of unity, meander to Fash's side. They don't appear angry or antagonistic, but they do begin to trade jokes about the "kid" who wants to turn merc.

Meanwhile, near the entrance to Kanak's, Adalyn speaks quietly with Arrid. First, we have no chain of command. That makes it rather difficult to make any agreements binding. Second, our basic contracts more or less guarantee mutual support of brothers-in-arms. We can't just leave someone to die if he isn't popular, for instance, because it could bring litigation from next-of-kin or other interested parties. As we operate in civilized areas we're beholden to civilized laws, and if we start hiring without even being able to pay people for risking their lives, it would appear ... disreputable. I think our ability to take on contracts would dwindle.

She shrugs. But I'm no barrister. I'm a soldier. Though I loath the idea of democracy in a military command - and in general - I think we should get an idea of who is best suited ... or we should agree to let you continue to at least get us our first contract.

OOC: The conversation is not exactly private, and anyone nearby and interested can pick up what they're saying with a DC 15 Listen check without being so obvious as to simply walk over and stand next to them.

[mrcarter11]

OOC: [roll0] Listen

Keylin looks to Fash and any others who seem to doubt him.

"Look I could lead this company with out to much trouble. And I know it. Now whether or not, you believe that is up to you. I'm no pit fighter, but I'd be happy to show what I know. Anyone wanna go for a nice friendly duel, one verse one. My ability will prove itself, sound fair?

[Dorni]

Leaving the stable where he'd left his horse, Osric gave the stone building before him an appraising look. Short and solid-looking, Kanak's Commons closely adhered to traditional dwarven architecture. Given the lack of influences from other styles, this inn was probably one of the older buildings in the city. Its ownership may or may not have changed hands over the years, but it he'd heard good thing about it under its current ownership from some of those he traded with. Reputation or not, it was still an usual place for a group that included humans and elves, as they were often uncomfortable with the low ceilings that the dwarves favored. Osric chuckled to himself; those low ceilings had never been much of a problem for him.

Striding into the Inn, a quick scan proved that his contacts had given him accurate information. The common room housed a good number good number of tough looking patrons, many of which were armed and likely to be the remnants of Grayton's Black Band. A number of soldiers were gathered in a semicircle around a young man, looking at him although he was amusing.

Not more than a few steps from him stood a dwarf and a young woman, their conversation easily carrying to him. He knew and opportunity when he saw it and joined them.
"Pardon me, but I couldn't help hearing your conversation. I would certainly agree that failing to pay a man who fights for you is a sure way to damage a reputation." It went without saying that a mercenary band's reputation was often what allowed it to take on new jobs and drove recruitment. The same was true for a merchant, Osric thought, although not quite to the same extreme.
"However, if a contract is what you are looking for, perhaps I can offer you an alternative."

[Gorgon_Heap]

Keylin - Two men are distracted by something toward the door, and you start to listen in on that conversation, but the others look like they admire your bravado and start counting out some coins and discussing opponents. They ask Fash what he thinks.

Osric - The pretty blonde casts a look at you that, for an instant, you swear would send a commoner to his knees in contrition. But then it's gone and she merely looks annoyed.

[Privateer]

Arrid listens to Adalyn, pondering over the implications. She certainly knew the contract better than he did. And it did seem to imply their inability to recruit anybody until the leadership is settled. He might have taken command, but that hardly gave him official powers.

"Hmm, point," he grunted a bit unhappily having to agree Adalyn's argument. "What of contracts, then, Ada? Supposing we found somebody willing to offer us a job, can we even accept it without an official leader?"


When the other stranger came up, Arrid at first was annoyed as well. They had their hands full of problems, and in an area he never thought they would encounter them, law... But then then man mentioned a job and a solution; he had Arrid's ear.

"Hmm, I'm listening," he said.

[Dorni]

"It's quite simple," replied Osric in the clipped accent of a Lonetree native. "I intend to start a mercenary company and I'm looking for capable individuals. Not many mercenary bands stay in the business as long as Grayton's Black Band has, which speaks well of both Grayton and those who served under him. I am willing to hire the Black Band."

[Privateer]

The local seemed to have had an interesting proposition, or perhaps he was just delusional and knew nothing of mercenary business. Still, Arrid was in no habit to dismiss possible leads. He lead the man to a table where they could comfortably discuss his proposition.

"So, you wish to hire the Band?" Arrid replied after the introductions were over. "Far be it from me to object to any contract that pays good gold, Osric, but the devil is in the details. The men expect to be paid and to have clear duration and objective, so that it may be compared to other jobs. Tell me what exactly you have in mind."

[Steckie]

Roqoan

Roqoan The Stirrup entered Lonetree.
It had been an exhausting journey, but he finally made it. The Band retreated to this town and, according to the people at the gate, they were staying in some dwarven inn owned by a man named Kanak.

He had been a member of the Black Band for more than 7 years now, 3 of those years he was a Mounted Lieutenant. He used to be in charge of the horses and mounted scouts. Now? The horses are dead, the scouts were dead or betrayed them and the Captain was dead as well.
His horse, the animal he had a special bond with, was killed and he barely survived and was seperated from the Black Band.
But, following the rumors that went around, he was able to follow them to Lonetree. And here he would be rejoined with his brothers, here they would rebuild.

Roqoan walked between the buildings towards the inn, he didn't feel very comfortable in the city, but he'd survive it. He had always felt better in the open field or around horses. But the horses were dead and the band lived on, that's all that mattered.

Approaching the inn of Kanak, he became very exited. Finally he would see his brothers again! It had been weeks since they got separated. He wondered who had survived the slaughter. Perhaps some officers would remain and he wouldn't be forced to take the lead. He really didn't want to end up the leader of the remaining men, but if he was the only officer left he's do what he needed to do.
His hand on the knob of the door he hesitated for a moment, he would meet up with the survivors, but he would also be remembered of all those who died.

But there was no sense in waiting here, afraid of opening the door. He pushed the door open and entered. He saw a lot of faces he recognised, but it was barely enough. Maybe 20 people survived, out of more than 100. That's more than 80 of his brothers dead.

He saw Fash, trying not to stand out too much in the crowd. He never really cared for much attention. Roqoan gave him a little nod. He also nodded to several other of his brothers that he considered friends
Than he saw him. Arrid was talking to some guy he didn't know, but by the way Arrid was talking, Roqoan immediatly saw that he took temporary command. That was great, Arrid was a trustworthy man and could be trusted with the leadership of the band. Maybe he wouldn't need to take command after all.

Roqoan ran over to him and gave him a bear hug while yelling in his ear: "ARRID! You ale-covered dwarf, am i glad that you survived all this!"

[Havelock]

OOC: [roll0] Listen

Keylin looks to Fash and any others who seem to doubt him.

"Look I could lead this company with out to much trouble. And I know it. Now whether or not, you believe that is up to you. I'm no pit fighter, but I'd be happy to show what I know. Anyone wanna go for a nice friendly duel, one verse one. My ability will prove itself, sound fair?

Battle isn't done one on one. A fair test is to put you on the front line and see if you come back alive without pissing yourself.

[Privateer]

Arrid grunted in surprise as somebody grabbed him into a hug, but a split second later he realized who it was. The stout dwarf shook Roqoan and grinned.

"Aaaaaaah!" he laughed loudly enough for the whole room to hear. "Roqoan, you lucky dog! And I thought you were dead!"

"It's damned good to have you back!"

He looked back to the room and yelled out jubilantly: "Ye all see that, you bastards? We got a Black Band officer present!"

He turned back to Roqoan.

"Best I can figure, everyone else is dead. You're ranking, friend. I took up command for the time being, but it's yours now. Let me bring you up to speed."

Arrid quickly went over how they found this inn to stay in for cheap, what the scouts found out about the city and its factions.

"We've got two leads on possible caravan contracts, which I mean to continue following on, and we need to elect a new captain. And this good man is, apparently starting his own mercenary company and wishes to either hire or lead us."

[Steckie]

Roqoan

Roqoan listens intently while Arrid Explains what happened to the Black Band. When he hears Arrid say that this stranger wants to lead the Band, his face hardens.
"I hope he's here to hire us, because the Band should be led by one of the brothers, not by an outsider.
Arrid, are you sure that you can't keep on leading the band? You know me, i'm great with horses and a good Lieutenant, but leading the whole Band may be a bit much, especially during these times.
As far as i can see you've been doing a great job here, why don't you remain temporary leader and i'll just give you some advice.
I'd even back you for permanent leadership."

[Privateer]

The cleric's eyes widened a touch when Roqoan suggested he keep leading.

"It'll be tough," he admitted. "Without discipline we are nothing. And discipline will fall if I command over you. You've got to be officially in charge, at least until a captain is elected. But don't you worry, I got your back. You command me to keep negotiating on our behalf, and that's what I'll do." Arrid winked knowingly.

[Gorgon_Heap]

Corp. Adalyn looks Roqoan over appraisingly. I'm glad to see you, lieutenant. I realize you've only just arrived but things are chaotic and we can't seem to work out how to take a contract or reestablish leadership. There are two men here with proposals. If you don't mind, I suggest we three meet with them together and make a decision. She says very quietly, Fash may have a point. We should perform interviews and then see what mettle our newcomers are made of.

She speaks up again.

We must take a contract - even a simple one - to keep from disintegrating for any number of reasons.

[Steckie]

Roqoan

"Dammit, you're both right. It's just that i prefer handling horses to handling men. But i'll try to make the best of it. And you're right Adalyn, we need to handle the situation about these contracts. Let me adress the men first."

Roqoan turns to the group of men present at the inn.
"LISTEN UP MEN! Apparantly i'm the highest ranking officer still left alive. And that means that, for the moment, i am the captain of the Black Band.
A few things that you need to know:
One. I will not change the name to 'Roqoan's Black Band', for now we will just be named 'The Black Band'.
Two. Arrid is hereby promoted to First Lieutenant, he'll be my second in command. The two of us will negotiate all Black Band contracts.
Three. I'll need one or perhaps two sergeants, volunteers can go to Arrid to attempt to become one.
Four. I'll need a full list of the number of people we have here and what equipment you have left, we need to be organised to get the contracts coming in.

That'll be all. Me, Arrid and Adalyn will now go negotiate with these newcomers to see what they have to offer. Keylin, Osric come wit me and we'll talk. Fash, you come with us too, i'll need you're eye on this one.
The rest of you, start counting your gear and numbers. And if you know some people in town that might want to join the Black Band, contact them. We'll need the recruits."

Gesturing the 6 people he pointed out to follow him, Roqoan looks for an empty room and walks inside to meet in private.

Roqoan is asking for a list on what we have, but it doesn't need to be complicated. All i want to know is how many men have survived, and do they still have their weapons? How many are specialised archers and how many melee.
And if they are missing a lot of their gear, how much would it cost to outfit all of them?

[mrcarter11]

Keylin will follow eagerly.Seen in his eyes is his drive. This man clearly wants power and will likely fight happily alongside until he can take it.

[Privateer]

Arrid followed Roqoan and others to negotiate with the newcomers. He knew the captain may need his help on this; Fash, too, would come handy. But while the man's proposal was somewhat interesting, Arrid really wished he could get back to negotiating the caravan jobs. He felt he was close earlier in the day, and a contract like that would come in really handy right about now.

On the way, he brought up the new recruits situation with Roqoan. After explaining Adalyn's earlier reservations, he added:

"I think we should sign them up as provisionary members for now, clearly stating that they get no rights save to get paid, and can be thrown out of the Band or promoted at any time per our discression. Once we've seen them in action, we can decide if they're worth their salt."

Once in a private enough spot, he returned his attention to the well-dressed man that wanted to hire them.

"So you were saying you wished to enlist the Band's services. I assume you have a job in mind, a set duration and pay that we can consider?"

[Steckie]

Roqoan

"I agree with you Arrid, but since we need all the members we can get we're going to be forced to give every recruit full membership immediatly. So how about this: they both sign as full members, with all the same rights, but until one year after they sign their contract they can be kicked out of the band when the officers decide to do so, without the right to demand any more payment.
Now, i realise that both of you are eager to lead. And since at the moment we're low on officers, there are certainly opportunities for you. Prove yourself capable on our next mission and their might already be a promotion for you. Think about it for a moment and let me know."

Turning to Arrid, Roqoan says: "Arrid, i'd like you to go to the caravans and get us some work. I'm giving you full authority to choose the right job. There are only two things that you will certainly need to negotiate: We get fed 3 meals per day on their expenses and we get paid a part up front.
We're going to need to repair our weapons or buy some new ones, i've seen that some of the weapons the men are carrying are in bad shape.
Take Fash with you if you want.

And if these men agree to our terms, you can take one of them with you as well."

[Privateer]

"Right on, captain!" the dwarf grunted happily.

Arrid took along those who wanted to follow him, and headed out to the caravaners again. The dwarven caravan was his preferred choice. They'd have enough work for the whole company, even if they'd be tougher to negotiate with. He headed there first.

Seeking out the person in charge, Arrid continued the negotiation. Now that he had full authority from the captain, he hoped to get a concrete offer in hand. Making sure to lay out the conditions captain insisted on, Arrid focused on talking price. He knew it would be tough, and hoped his tongue was silver enough today.

The only thing better than one offer was two, and Arrid next went to follow the other lead. There his focus was different. He knew the merchant may not need the entire band, and so tried his best to tell stories of his past bandit encounters to convince the man there's never such a thing as too much protection.


Dwarf resources caravan:
Diplomacy: [roll0]

The smaller caravan:
Diplomacy: [roll1]

[Gorgon_Heap]

Arrid walks out, intent on his mission.

But all the while dwarves are coming and going, giving dirty looks to the heavily armed mercs clogging the doorways, chatting and smoking.

After some time Kanak appears and approaches the "command staff" (ie.e, anyone within the sounds of his near-shouting voice). He looks around miserably and growls in annoyance. "Dunno where that fine Arrid fellow got to, but you Talls are are infringing on my customers' peace of mind. Ya gotta either spend yer time out in the city or up in your common chamber."

[mrcarter11]

Keylin doesn't seem to be openly happy about the way things have happened, so many new people coming at once. His chance at perhaps taking over such a group seems smaller now. Decision time.. He could attempt to kill everyone in the room, he had a small chance of it working, go for the weak ones and purge the band of a few members if he could. Die a happy traumatic death. He could go along with this, become a normal merc. The pay wasn't likely to be outstanding and the hours would probably be terrible, but killing is killing. Weighing his options, neither seemed all that great really. In the end, killing is killing though.

"So what exactly is going on with all the new people and propositions for leadership?

[Steckie]

Roqoan

Seeing the struggle on Keylin's face, Roqoan is curious what the man will decide. And when he hears him ask his question, he relaxes, knowing that the man has accepted his position in the band. But he's still not sure on how much he can trust this man, so he'll have to keep him very close just to keep an eye on him. But what would be the best way to do that?
Suddenly he had it, he knew how to keep this man close and still keep him focused on other things than leadership.
He says to him: "The new people are hopefully recruits, we've been trough some rough times. And the people hoping to become leader can now put their ambitions away since we've arranged the leadership already.
Keylin, as a new recuit i'm now giving you your first assignment. You are hereby promoted to my personal bodyguard. You'll protect me from harm and give me advice if you feel it's needed. You're also promoted to Corporal.
Oh, and if i die in mysterious circumstances or with your knife in my back, Arrid will kill you. I'll make sure of that.
Got that, Corporal?"

While waiting for an answer, Roqoan suddenly hears their Dwarven host complain. Not wanting to anger their host, he doesn't wait for Keylin to answer and immediatly walks over to him.
"Arrid is arranging our contracts, Kanak. But i'll make sure your customers will no longer be disturbed by us. One second please.

MEN! All of you will first get your equipment in order, make sure everything is clean and behave like a well mannered guest of this establishment.
Once that is done you will all leave this tavern and have a good time in the city. Relax a little, visit one of the 'houses of pleasures', do whatever you want. Make sure you're in your bed before midnight, since if all goes well Arrid will have some work for us tomorrow.
Dismissed!"

Roqoan sighs, being captain is exhausting.

[mrcarter11]

Keylin seems in a new happy mood.

After the captain is done barking orders, Keylin approaches him.

"Do note two things. First, if you need anyone killed without getting the whole band in on it, I'm your man. Second, you'll never find my dagger in your back, but if you were to be a cruel person to Me, you may find a chain around your neck. I do hope you understand. I don't wish to go killing the person I'm to protect after all.

[Steckie]

Roqoan

"I'm not cruel, Keylin. I expect from my bodyguard to be able to fight better than all the other men, while still being able to give me some intelligent advice when needed. And if we need somebody dead quickly and quietly, i'll be sure to think of you."

[Dorni]

Osric

Events had happened quickly with the arrival of the band's last surviving officer, more quickly than Osric would have liked. While the new captain hadn't struck him as a natural, he was handling the immediate concerns well enough that Osric discarded his original plan. But what now?


Osric scratched his beard thoughtfully. His fine-spun green woolen coat was embroidered with a gold scrollwork pattern at the collar and cuffs. He'd left it open at the front, revealing a blue vest, again with a gold scrollwork design, and plain linen shirt underneath. A rolled up soft leather sack hung from his belt at his right and was balanced by a longsword on his left. The scabbard was black leather with owls stamped along the length and capped with steel at the base and top, while the hilt and handle had no concession to ornamentation. Although Osric knew that in other lands, owning a blade or having any embroidery was reserved for the wealthy, in Lonetree his was more common to someone of moderate success.

The captain's offer of a job with the Black Band was unexpected, given the band's lack of resources. From the report he'd overheard, the band was barely equipped, and would need to work hard to build itself back to its previous strength. The gold he would make as a conscript would be almost inconsequential, certainly less than if he walked out now and built his own band. Would it be better to start from scratch, or cast his lot helping rebuild the Black Band? Osric glanced around at the departing men and the captain's new bodyguard. The one who took no risks never won. He joined Keylin and the captain.

"I'm afraid that killing a man in his sleep was never something I was fond of. I have some skill with a blade, but my talents lie more in the area of acquiring things - goods, supplies, information. What terms are you offering recruits?"

[Steckie]

Roqoan

"Every man has his skills, Osric.
And your skills will be usefull as well. So congratulations, you've just been promoted to Corporal Osric, the supply officer.
Your first task will be to find a blacksmith that's willing to repair the men's equipment at a decent price. Find one, negotiate a good deal and send him here to take a look at the gear. Perhaps Kanak knows one?
Once you've found a blacksmith, perhaps a little bit of recruiting is in order. I'll trust your judgement on where you can find some decent fighters. I don't care if they're former baker apprentices or convicted criminals. As long as they can fight and we can get them to follow orders in combat and be decent people that wont bring shame to us out of combat, they will probably be good enough for us.
Terms are: 1 year probational contract with an option for a 5 year contract if we approve of them. First piece of armor and weaponry is given by the Band, if they lose or break it, they need to pay for it themselves.
Fighting recruits receive 5 sp per day, group laborers like cooks etc 2sp per day. They need to sign up before tomorrow because i'm hoping Arrid will have a decent contract ready for us. Got all that, corporal?"

[Gorgon_Heap]

Everyone moves back - noisily - to the Band's common room, where most of the men dump the majority of their belongings and dash back out the door into the city.

Somewhat taken aback by this turn of events, Corp. Adalyn lights a number of candles and sits at the dinner table, furiously writing on a sheaf of papers with quill and inkjar at her right hand.

[Dorni]

Osric

"Captain, I can name you a dozen smiths right now who would do the work at a fair price and none of them could do what you're asking. If the equipment that I've seen so far is the norm, it will take any decent smithy some time to complete the job. If you want the repairs done, the Band will need to sit in Lonetree for a few days. A break would probably do the Company well in any case. I know this city and there are better jobs available than guarding trade caravans. If you keep the band in Lonetree for 3 days, I can arrange the repairs and check with some contacts. I will pay for payroll during that time."

[Steckie]

Roqoan

Roqoan thinks about Osric's offer for a moment.
"It's a deal Osric, we can use a little time to rest and relax anyway. I mean, it's been hard on all of us. I just got in this town today. Or was it yesterday? I don't even remember what day it is, it's just been so damn busy.
We'll see what contract Arrid can bring in, and you can go talk to your contacts if you like."

[mrcarter11]

Keylin seems to be weighing options in his head again. Something he seems to do frequent as of late. He'll go to Roqoan to speak his piece of what he thinks the Band should do.

"I've head the offer we were given, and I'd like to offer my opinion. I feel the common soldiers could be sent without cause for alarm. Most of these men can handle themselves and sending them away will give them experience and a warm meal. Perhaps upon their return one of them, can also step up to being an officer. Going to the city guard is a possible idea, but I'm not sure it's for the best. We don't know how trustworthy they are. However our new friend seems to be in with the right circles so, perhaps he can find a more private entity wishing to hire us.

[Dorni]

Osric

"It won't get any easier, Captain. If you can't handle the job, you do your men no favors," Osric responded. There was no sympathy in his voice.
It was a good thing the men hadn't been around to hear that exchange. "Now, please excuse me. I need to get to work on getting our equipment fixed up and I'll need to coordinate with the Lieutenant. Please inform me when Arrid returns. I'll report to you if something develops."

As Osric took his leave of the Captain, he ordered his tasks. He'd inspect the remaining equipment first so he knew what he had to work with. He needed to find the Lieutenant and see if there was an inventory that survived. Riding around the city to negotiate with the smiths they'd need would take time, as would ..



Osric is going to be running errands for awhile after this. He'll inspect the equipment the men left behind, see about pricing for getting it fixed, and check with his contacts to see if he can find work for the band. Rolls are already in OOC.

[Steckie]

Roqoan

"I can handle my job just fine, thank you very much." Roqoan answers Osric. "Every man would be tired after following his brothers halfway trough the continent and after that being in tow for several hours trying to get things arranged.
The day i can't handle it anymore, you'll be the first to hear it......Corporal."
Arrid has already returned actually, he said they offered 4 silver per person per day for 8 people on a 3 month job. I'm going to send him to try and get 6 silver per day. If we earn less than that, we're not even making a profit.
If they don't accept that we'll need to find something different.
Now, where did Arrid wander off to?"

Roqoan will go look for Arrid and tell him what he just told Osric, sending him back to the dwarf leading the caravan to ask for 6 silver per day.

[Gorgon_Heap]

Corp. Adaly doesn't stop writing, but does speak up. "Actually, sir, we have always made a modest profit on four silver per man per day. We make real money from collecting spoils, of course, but we previously had little trouble making ends meet.

It was called 'success.'"

[Gorgon_Heap]

Arrid, if you do as suggested (which you might not, given we've figured out pay rates) you arrive at Ironroot's in the early evening and are told he's no longer in the office.

On the other hand, once you return to Kanak's, you get a terrible earful as he and some of his staff members lambast the "Talls" you travel with. "I tell you I'm a fair-minded dwarf, but these folk have no respect fer our ways ... and what's with all this hangin' about?" he grumbles to you in dwarven. "We dwarves wouldn't waste a good day away standin' about accomplishing nothing! My customers are finding your Talls lounging all about complaining about every little thing - it makes them uncomfortable and makes me look bad. I'll ask you to keep'em in their common room fer now on."

Two soldiers appear in the door just then. Hammel and Shadowpine return the withering look Kanak gives them and hurry upstairs, looking exhausted.

"Say, that reminds me," he says of nothing in particular, "I'm meeting some associates for dinner soon fer an annaversary. Told'em you'd come along to give a blessing."

Just about then another group of Talls walks in, led by a middle-aged man with tremendous mutton-chops. He wears nice chainmail under a Lonetree tabard, and a lustrous purple velvet cape hangs from his shoulders. Kanak's eyes just about pop from his face.

He says not impolitely, in a somewhat growling voice, "I am Jessenian, captain of the Watch. I understand a mercenary company called Grayton's Black Band is billeted here?" Kanak is dismayed and furious, and shows the commander upstairs to the Hand's common room.

Here Jessenian reintroduces himself and, with a glower that brooks no argument, demands to speak with the commanding officer. Corp. Adalyn instantly points at Roqoan.

He takes in the Band's general condition with disgust and approaches Roqoan with an air of complete dissapproval. "Captain, I have a dozen of your men in custody for inciting a drunken brawl at a brothel. They will remain in the watch's custody for the night. Come morning you may come to claim them, and discuss with a magistrate to discuss the pending fines - fortunately nobody was badly hurt. I expect more discipline from sellswords in my city, captain."

[Havelock]

They break, they pay Fash's voice came out of the shadows. Though maybe, if we have work, it may be prudent to give them some advance to cover those fines.

Assuming the eight does not include any of our specialists, and meals and other expendables are included, 4SP would in fact be the going rate for hired muscle with the training and equipment the men have, at least if it's in proper order, provided the mission parameters does not warrant extra danger pay. We're used to more, sure, but you get paid more when fight is guaranteed, which we are accustomed with, a lot more than a job to discourage a fight to begin with.

[Steckie]

Roqoan

Roqoan lets out a great sigh when he hears the Captain's report.
Between Kanak's whining about troubles and all the troubles with getting the band back on it's feet he's already pretty tired, and now this is dumped in his lap.
"Captain, i apologise for the behavior of my men. I know that excuses wont matter much here, but let me try to explain it nonetheless. We were betrayed by our employer a few weeks ago. Out of more than 120 men, only 23 survived. Travelling for days or weeks we finally made it here, settled ourselves in this inn. Today i gave the men the first leave they've had in months and apparently they tried to drink away their frustrations.
So i'd like to ask you for some mercy on your part. I agree that they should be kept in prison for the nigth, but i hope the magistrate will show some mercy in this case. These men have gone trough a hell, and without some steady work to keep money in their pockets they're going to relive those events in their mind time after time.

I obviously do have a proposal in mind to solve this situation. I've heard that the watch lost a lot of men some time ago. And all 25 members of the Black Band are available at the moment to do various tasks. We prefer to work together as a group, but we are also willing to split up.
And don't let the fact that a dozen of my men are in prison at the moment colour your judgement on the Band. When we're at work we are absolute professionals.
We can negotiate with you right here if you want, or with the magistrate if that's needed.
Our Lieutenant Arrid is the one that negotiates all contracts, and we'll send him to whoever you want. He does have one previous engagement though, there's an anniversary where he's been asked to give the blessing to all dwarves present.
Thank you for listening, captain."

Roqoan gestures to Keylin to come to him.
"Keylin, go to the prison where our twelve men are being held. Let them all taste my anger, the watch captain's anger and your own anger if you want to. Yell at them as much as you want. If they try to talk back to you, yell at them some more. And if one of them keeps challenging you, make an example of him using your fists or a whip. Make sure they know that this will NOT be tolerated."

[mrcarter11]

Keylin takes his orders well. Once everything has been explained he first walks to the city watch captain to speak to him.

"I was wondering if you could direct Me to your holding facility for prisoners? I have things to discuss with those you locked up. I hope you don't mind?

[Gorgon_Heap]

Roqoan - Watch Captain Jessenian continues to glower at you as you talk. Though it doesn't seem he's moving any muscles in his face, the depth of the menace in his eyes grows profoundly as you ramble. Your mouth turns dry. You begin to sweat. Your limbs feel cold.

By the time you are finished, barely whispering now, you feel a need to go huddle by the fire and sleep with your eyes open.

"The magistrate will decide in the morning. As for work I will bear it in mind but at the moment you cannot curry favor with me." He looks at Keylin. "Come along. I'll give you ten minutes to instill some discipline, but then your commander must return in the morning." You leave together and walk a quarter-mile to the nearest Watch station, where the dirty dozen, battered and stinking of booze and perfume, await you.

Fash - Hammel and Shadowpine show only amusement at the situation, but at your comment raise mugs and gulp ale in salute to shared feelings. "I hate boredom and I hate this place," says Hammel. "Good ale, but it's otherwise like living in a cave. We looked around for better bargains, but I'm stickin' with that Cudgel place. Them old folks'll bend over backwards to keep us happy. Said their sons died and they got nothin' left. And the place reminds me of my old mam's." Shadowpine, nods in agreement. "Yes." The black-haired man gives the elf a dirty look. "You ain't never seen my old mam's." The elf merely looks back sternly. "Yes." They both shrug and drink some more.

[Havelock]

You complain about boredom? Fash shrugged. Better bored than dead.

[Gorgon_Heap]

Shadowpine says quietly, "But death may offer adventures of its own."

"Pffft," says Hammel, "I'm sure the pay sucks." He refills the mugs.

[Privateer]

Arrid groaned in frustration after walking all that way only to proverbially kiss the locked doors of the merchant's office. He returned in a foul mood. The price the merchant offered was an insult, and even for that price, they still did not have a signed contract.

He appologized politely to their host, and made sure to convey it to the captain.

"We're in a bit of a bad way, my dear Kanak," he explained. "Being far from where our reputation is, it's not easy to find work; and so the men are bored and idle. Quite a sad and annoying sight, truly unfortunate for anyone to have to see. I will tell the captain we need to step up discipline and keep the soldiers in the room or outside. But, I tell you, you should've seen them in action when they have a goal!..." he drew dreamily.

After talking with the captain, Arrid came along with Kanak for the celebration. He would be happy to bless those present, but also tried to get introduced to as many people as possible and make a good impression, hoping somebody important would take notice.

[mrcarter11]

Keylin follows the captain of the guard to the holding area.

"If you don't mind, I'd like some alone time to talk to them. I hope that's okay.

Once the captain leaves, Keylin begins to pace along in front of the soldiers. Left to right in front of the holding cell.

"Alright men. The good and kind captain isn't here, so your stuck with Me for the next 10 minutes. Now, once your all freed in the morning and I can get my hands on you, I'm sure we can shape you all up. Personally I'm hoping for combat drills with each of you. For now though, I can only yell at you all for the being the stupidest, most worthless mercenaries I've ever seen. In a town, that we are looking for work in, you all decide to get drunk and make fools of yourself. Growing up, if I had been that stupid, my parents took a sack filled it with rocks and then they beat me with the sack. Now lucky for all your scum, I don't have a sack of rocks to beat you all with. I do have this chain though, and come tomorrow, I'm going to instil some discipline into each and every one of you with my sharp chain.

Now you worthless lot, I'm leaving since the pure sight of you makes Me sick. A bunch of worthless animals is all you are. Causing trouble in a town that we need to like us. I hope your all ashamed and embarrassed to call yourself men. I know at this exact moment, I'm embarrassed to say that I know any of you stupid fools. I hope you sleep good, because come tomorrow, I will haunt you in your sleep.

With that said, Keylin will leave and head back to the in. First though he'll stop at any shops he comes across and ask for a free sack.

[Gorgon_Heap]

The Band spends its second night in a dark, cavelike room and all awaken stiff and disoriented.

A breakfast of poached eggs in a heavy-creamed raddish sauce, and ale, is served and everyone prepares to go on their appointed tasks.

The names of the arrested men are recorded and the magistrate decrees each shall pay a fine of six silver, which shall be repaid in cash or work hours to the city within one year, and are under probation until such payment is rendered.

Eight mercenaries of the Band are signed to a contract with Master Ironroot, and once it is indicated who they are, they leave eight days later.

Kanak's lacks outdoor space for any training, and doing so indoors causes a near-riot from other guests.

[Privateer]

After concluding negotiations with Ironroot, Arrid prepares his swankiest summoning spell as well as a Remove Disease spell. He asks around to locate the temple district.


Gather info: Take 20 for total of 20.


Once there, he approaches priests in temples, trying to find those short on spellcasters and willing to pay for a cleric, and convince them to hire him. He uses Guidance spells to help himself negotiate with those who seem interested.


Dip: [roll0]
Dip: [roll1]


If there appears to be nobody willing to pay for clerical spells at the temples, Arrid heads to the arena, and attempts to interest them in his summoning spell services.

[Gorgon_Heap]

Arrid-

You easily ask around or folow road signs to the city's huge temple district, which is, fortunatley, only about a half-mile away. You walk through some fairly night residential neighborhoods on the way, all keeping with the strange mixing of cultural styles and preferences, and get lost only twice.

In a city this size you can find temples all over, but here is the main grouping, and it is a rich area, with priests, clerics, citizens and heretics walking, shouting and harranguing in a clatter or conflicting languages.

You approach a number of temples, rather at random since you scarcely know the difference. Some turn you away because of your race, some because you don't understand the language, and still others because of your sheer ignorance. A couple invite you in to talk, but ultimately say that while they appreciate the thought, you would have to actually join their faith for them to permit you to operate there.

The sole exception is at the open-air tample of Fharlaghn. Really a huge shrine under a roof - a vestibule - the lazy-looking and road-worn traveling clerics lounging about occasionally perform some prayers or spells for travelers, and don't seem to mind of you do the same. They ask, though, that (since you lack a religion in general) you don't try to actually discuss the subject, and you give a donation to them from any sale you make.

[Gorgon_Heap]

Osric -

You receive a note from your uncle Osman, asking you to lunch. When you arrive he greets you warmly - if warily - as always, and asks what strange request you are making of him.

He listens to your scheme and questions, and shows concern. "This is a dangerous proposition, young man. I know you are trained and see yourself as a warrior, but I'm not sure I can allow you to enter violent situations without your parents' knowledge..."

I have, for obvious reasons, not put any thought into this, but I do know of one man, the owner of several residential buildings, who was just the other day complaining of squatters. He's been unable to evict them legally and may be persuaded to pay your friends to do so in a more intimidating fashion.

His name is Garvin Buunk. Do not mention my name." He gives you an address."And do be careful. I really know little of this situation, and should be most put out if if your parents wonder how you became involved in sich an event." He smiles at you knowlingly.

[Steckie]

Roqoan

Roqoan is finally able to get a good night's rest. The moment his head hits the bed, he falls asleep and sleeps until the rest of the men start waking up to get breakfast.
He quickly eats his breakfast and walks over to the prison to make the arrangments with the magistrate. He accepts the verdict of 6 silver per person without any comments, but asks the magistrate a question: "Your honor, you mentioned that 6 silver should be paid in cash or hours work for the city. Do you perhaps have some kind of work in mind that the men could do? At the moment we have 17 people available to do various kinds of work. We could quickly work off our debt to the city, and perhaps afterwards even continue the work we are doing.
After all, the Black Band is looking for work and if you have work available, we're more than happy to do it for you. If you have something available, i'll send my Lieutenant Arrid to you to negotiate the contract."

[Gorgon_Heap]

The magistrate, a clean, crisp, refined and snobbish sort, is agast and infuriated by your slovenlyness, demeanor and lack of respect.

"Those men shall pay their fines or perform the services themselves! To suggest otherwise is to suggest a circumvention or disrespectul neglect of the law! And you will seek work through proper governmental channels, not by soliciting a magistrate in open court. Now begone or be held in contempt!"

[Privateer]

Arrid

Elated that luck seemed to finally be changing, Arrid set up shop at the Fharlaghn's temple. The prospect of earning some gold he loves so much made the dwarf appear happy and welcoming.

He took inventory of his remaining spells that may interest buyers. In cantrips, he still had one Guidance and one Detect Magic someone might be interested in. He had two Blessings left to give, a Command, and Shield of Faith that might be of interest to magic item makers. A Zone of Truth, he expected to find its buyer in a merchant city. Finally, the Cure Disease he prepared earlier just for this purpose, was his big-ticket item.

To avoid conflicts, Arrid deliberately set his prices around the same level as other casters at the temple. He then watched carefully to see what portion of their earnins other clerics were donating to the temple, intending to match that. In general, he tried to attract customer attention to himself as other clerics did, but not to stick out so much as to make enemies.

Arrid chated up with other clerics when there were no clients, and tried to listen in on conversations as much as he could without appearing to eavesdrop, trying to find out rumors, but most importantly trying to judge which spells were most in demand.

He also vowed to finish and head back to Kanak's before dusk, and to keep sober and alert. If all went well, he might have a handsome sum of gold on his hands and the last thing he needed was to get robbed.


And a couple of random rolls that may be needed:
Gather Info: [roll0]
Diplomacy: [roll1]
Diplomacy: [roll2]
Diplomacy: [roll3]
Diplomacy: [roll4]
Diplomacy: [roll5]
Diplomacy: [roll6]

[Gorgon_Heap]

Arrid has a spectacularly successful day. He sells Guidance, Detect Magic and one Blessing. Take level-appropriate money and provide a donation of ten percent to the temple of Fharlaghn.

(The DM is in the market for lower-rolling d20s ...)

[Privateer]

Arrid

When the day was starting to wind down, Arrid counted up his precious shiny coins with a big grin. After giving the customary donation to the temple, he was still left with ninety beautiful shiny chunks of gold.

"Come on now," he invited some of his new cleric acquaintances that may or may not have been as successful that day. "Tomorrow will bring better luck. As for today, let us go drink. First round is on me!"

He spent an hour or so with those from the Fharlaghn crowd that agreed to join him, paying for a round of ale for everyone, and chatting up. Here Arrid tried to find out what he could about the temples in this city and the organizations that run them, as well as build some rapport with the other clerics. Of course, many of them were travellers, knowing as much about this place as he did, and perhaps not even intending to stay here for long, but what harm was there to ask, especially while relaxing over a nice, full mug of ale?


Gather Info: [roll0]


When the sun was starting to set, Arrid excused himself and headed back to Kanak's. He left 5 silver coins on the counter before going, to cover his drinks and his new friends'.

Happy at finally having a full purse and warmed up by the ale, he dreamed of showing up before the band with enough ale and wine to fill up every one of his brothers in arms and with a dozen lusty wenches from a nearby brothel hanging off him for a grand party. But all it took was remembering Kanak's complaints about his boys merely hanging around, and he knew it would be a bad idea. Not to mention, he heard some of the men were still locked up for a drunken brawl earlier.

Still, Arrid didn't want to show up empty-handed. He dropped by a baker's shop, which was probably about to close for the night, and figured he could get a good last-minute deal on some sweet treats. With a budget of 2.5gp, he tried to get as many decent pastries as he could for his buddies. Then, at Kanak's he spent another 1gp on five one-gallon jugs of ale, which he took back to the common room.

"Guess who's back, ye bastards," he half-laughed and half-groaned, entering.

Spilling his goods on the big table at the center of the room, he invited everyone to enjoy.

Finally, he took a mug of ale and a piece of cake to the captain.

"Well, we may not have a good contract, but at least we ain't broke now!" he grinned, handing Roqoan the treat. I'll get the money to Adalyn and have her write me an IOU for 50 gold, if ye're fine with it. That should keep us afloat for a while until a good contract comes along.

[Steckie]

Roqoan

"The Black Band will be happy to be able to pay your 50 gold back. And i hope it wont take us too long to get that kind of money. I hate being in debt with somebody.
Oh and Arrid, earlier today i got chewed out by a magistrate because i asked him if he knew where we could get work for the men to pay of their debt. Now, it turns out there's something like 'proper government channels' we have to work trough to get some work for them.
If you're feeling up for it tomorrow, could you go find out what we need to do to get some work for the city.
For now just get the info, i'm waiting on what Keylin finds so we can decide what job suits us best."

[Gorgon_Heap]

Arrid -

So heady is the experience of once again having a full changepurse, and so invested are you in the jocularity of the moment, that once your stops spinning and you sit down with Roqoan, you realize you completely confused everything you were told.

The Church of Pelor was holding a spring fair, right? And the clerics of Fharlaghn were going to help monitor the north road? The head of the local temple of Wee Jas is rumored to be bribing a city official to get more property. Er, what was his name - Thunderbones?

[mrcarter11]

Keylin will find the captain and report in =.
"I couldn't find any information about any jobs for the Band. I do ask though, is the punishment of the drunks being placed solely in my hands?

[Privateer]

"With pleasure, captain," Arrid grinned.

He may have had a little too much ale between going out with the clerics and celebrating here with his mates. He tried to recall what it was he found out to tell Roqoan, but... forgot. Only silly things came up in his mind regarding that conversation.

"I heard that... ah... umm... well, there was something... or other... yeah..." and with that, he wandered off back to the table, without relaying anything useful.

Later, Arrid did seek out Adalyn and exchanged fifty of his gold pieces for a note, as he promised Roqoan.

[Havelock]

Fash studied the piece of cake offered him And here I was, thinking Dwarves were prudent with their wealth

He ate the cake anyways, evidently deciding that it wasn't likely to be poisonous. Usually, he only ate the food from his everlasting rations and the liquid from his everfull mug. Including at the inn. Mumbling something about corpses dropped in wells or other such story that made green boys shiver and all but the most well-traveled mercs think him manically paranoid.

[mrcarter11]

Keylin nods his head and smiles. The twinkle in his eyes tells of how the idiot mercenaries shall pay for their stupidity.. It tells that they shall pay in blood, sweat, and more than likely lots of tears.

[Steckie]

Roqoan

"Let them eat cake this evening." Roqoan whispers to Keylin. "Tomorrow you can start training them."

[mrcarter11]

Keylin looks to Roqoan, and then shrugs. It seems clear that misery will fall to the soldiers no matter what, so Keylin is fine with waiting a night.

"The cake may be a bad idea. Cake isn't very good coming back up. And their blood will drench the ground tomorrow, I'd advise perhaps having the rest of the company watch. A warning of sorts.

[Privateer]

Arrid

The evening went on, and more and more alcohol was consumed. The dwarf cleric, already quite heated up from earlier, was starting to get quite loud and roudy in their large private room. Suddenly, he remembered the summoning spell he had prepared to possibly make money at the arena, but never used. It will regenerate by tomorrow anyway... The drunken brain considered it an excellent idea.

"Now, lookie right here, ye all!" He roared, climbing up on the table. "We're gonna have a drinking buddy joining us."

With that he made the passes and said the magic words, then eyed the room, laughing at the reactions he saw. A fully grown black bear appeared not far from Arrid on one of the empty chairs.

"Say hello, Band!" he laughed, grabbing a jug of ale and placing it to the magic animal's snout.

"Chug, Boris, chug!" Arrid appeared quite wasted, and laughed as the bear obediently licked up the tasty drink flowing into its mouth.

"That's enough for you, buddy," Arrid said after a short while. "Now dance for us!"

The bear, made compliant with the same magic that summoned it, proceeded to perform. Kicking back the chair, and stretching almost to the low ceiling of the dwarf inn, the animal bounced comically from one hind leg to another, then spun around a few times.

"You're a good, good, bear, you know that?" Arrid hugged the animal and patted it on the snout.

Just then, the thirty seconds of the spell's duration expired, and the bear disappeared in a poof.

"Eh, now ye all can go tellin' stories about how you drank with a bear!" he laughed.

[Steckie]

Roqoan

When Roqoan sees Arrid summon the bear and have fun with the beast and the men, he quickly heads up to his bedroom to get some sleep.
The sight of a man and his animal having fun makes him relive the death of his horse, his companion, his bonded animal. Joam, that was his name and he died in the same ambush that got most of the Black Band killed.
Roqoan is still often overwhelmed with great sorrow when he thinks about Joam. The moment that the bond between him and his horse snapped has been burned into his mind. The way he felt when the Band was betrayed and slaughtered was amplified by the breaking of that bond in his mind.

While he did have the Band to take care of now, the grief still often crept up and surprised him when he least expected it. It would be something he had to learn to live with. The Band was all that mattered now.
"And to think they say that when your dog dies, you need to get a new pup as soon as possible...." Roqoan mumbles to himself while getting under the covers of his bed.

[Dorni]

Osric

Osric will thank his Uncle for the lead and enjoy the rest of their lunch together. When the meal is concluded, Osric will have a look at the residences at the address he's given, and then see what information he can turn up on Garvin Buunk and the dispute. I'll take 10 on the Gather Information check for a result of 20. Osric will return to Kanak's that evening.

When Osric had left in the morning to finish arranging for the fixing of the band's weaponry, he had not expected to be greeted with cake upon his return. Surely the captain could wait a few minutes.

Osric helped himself to one of the few remaining cake pieces and took a seat beside a group of the men talking about the day's events and the job to come. As the stories came, Osric hurried through his cake. First the Captain insults a magistrate, then Arrid summoned a bear into Kanak's establishment? That wouldn't do at all - they didn't need to upset the innkeeper any more than they already had.

Osric rose and excused himself, heading toward the Captain's room. Supposedly the Captain had retired shortly before Osric's return. With any luck, the man would still be awake. But to offer the carrots or the stick first?

Upon reaching the Captain's room, he gave three sharp raps on the door.

[Steckie]

Roqoan

Roqoan, who was just about to drift away in a deep sleep, was suddenly woken up by somebody knocking on the door. Whispering a curse, he gets up from his warm bed, puts on some pants and opens the door.
"Osric, good to see you back. I didn't see you at the party downstairs. You don't like cake and dancing bears?"

[Gorgon_Heap]

OOC - Remember, guys there is no door. Y'all are in one big room with your sheets rolled out on the floor.

IC

Osric finds the neighborhood easily enough - it's in a fairly run-down residential area, though a far sight better than tenements. It is one of a half-dozen seperate dwellings in one long structure. (think medieval row-homes) The address in question is a single three-story home, rather than several apartments or businesses. The street is about 20 feet wide and the opposite building is similar. All these buildings have an ugly stone face with sweeping clay-tiled roofs.

Buunk is easy enough to track down. A middle-aged human, successful though not terribly wealthy landowner, this is one of about a dozen similar homes he owns and rents out. Rumors abound in the neighborhood of comings and goings at all hours from this home (number 5), and the people who are living there - unknown in number or composition - are usually nice enough but don't talk much and dislike questions.

[Privateer]

Arrid

Like all good things, his ale had eventually run out. Arrid considered going to get some more in the middle of the night, but ultimately decided that would be too much. Tired, but happy with how the day went, the dwarf climbed into his bedding and drifted asleep, remembering the night fondly.

Tomorrow, he would go the see the city clerks first thing in the morning, he planned. Then, with luck, he would still have time left to return to the temple and sell some spells. He smiled, thinking about the gold he would make the next day and the party he would throw at night.

[Dorni]

Osric

"Nay Captain, I've just returned. I deemed it more important to speak with you than stuff myself with cake," replied Osric with a wry smile. He supposed the cake hadn't been bad, but it paled in comparison with the work of the chefs his family employed. They were some of the finest in the city - the doing of his father, who loved his food.

"I did miss the bear, but I am a bit glad of it. I can't see that Kanak would be pleased find out that the Band had brought a bear into his establishment." With any luck, Roqoan will remember it in the future. Even if we control the men, Kanak won't host us for much longer. "But I wish to discuss something else. I have a job, although it may not be the one we're looking for."

[Steckie]

Roqoan

"Tell me about the job. I don't really care if it's not something we're looking for, it's not like we have much choice in the matter."

[Dorni]

Osric

"Perhaps. The potential employer is a man named Gavin Buunk. He owns several residential properties within the city. The properties look like they're in ok condition, but I've heard word that he has been having problems with squatters that he hasn't been able to evict. Legally. I've also heard that he may be ready to pay to have the squatters removed anyway." The officer paused a moment before continuing.

"I'd like your leave to look into the job. I know the law in this city, and more to the point I know the factions in play. The Watch Captain already sent us a message that he has his eye on our band - informing us in person that our men spent the night locked up after that fight was work for one of his underlings. The incident with the magistrate couldn't have improved his mood. Until the Band is on more stable footing, it would be beneficial to avoid antagonizing him more."

[Steckie]

Roqoan

Roqoan rubs his chin for a moment, thinking about the things Osric told him.
"Well, i'm not one to turn down a job just because it's not legal. If we make sure we're not caught an illegal job is usually more lucrative than a legal one.
The only problem here is trying not to get caught. You say that the captain has his eye on us. So if we go out at night with the Band and start doing something illegal, will he notice? Does he have enough men to spare to folluw us around the city?
So, i'm giving you permission to check in on the job. I'm willing to take some risks, if there's a reasonable chance we can do this undetected we'll take the job, but if the risks are too high we're turning it down.
And we obviously want to get payed very well.

In fact, now that i'm thinking about it, this might turn out very well for us.
We need to start looking for a more permanent place to stay. And it looks like Gavin Buunk owns several properties in the city.
I'm sure he has something he can spare for us. We can try to rent something from him, or purchase it once we get some money.

Do you need some help tomorrow? You can take Fash or Arrid with you if you want. Keylin if you need protection.
I'd like you to at least take one of them with you, we need more people in the Band that know their way around the city and you're the best person to teach them about Lonetree."

[Dorni]

Osric

Osric gave a satisfied nod. "Very well, I'll make the necessary inquiries. As for taking payment in lodging, I would consider carefully. Its true that Buunk may own other properties, but the ones I know of are all located in residential districts. Putting our HQ in the middle of a residential district will get us less notice than a more visible location and would leave us no nearby area to drill the men or stable the animals. In addition, setting up any permanent HQ, lest we abandon the building, would restrict our operations to only within Lonetree's immediate area." Although, that would suit my purposes just fine.

"As far as sharing some of the finer points of Lonetree, I'm willing to share my expertise as needed. Taking a partner along to meet with Buunk would also be a good idea." But which one to take? Osric discarded Keylin. The man looked like he knew how to handle the chain he carried, but his eyes made Osric uneasy. They were the eyes of a butcher, looking at others as though they were little more than cows to be butchered. He'd do a good job of scaring someone, but he was best kept away from respectable clients. Arrid seemed like a reasonable dwarf and might make a good companion, but he wasn't a very shrewd bargainer if the contract with Ironroot was telling. It wouldn't do to have Arrid pull rank during negotiations. "I request that you assign Fash to accompany me when I seek out Buunk tomorrow. I'll teach him what I can of Lonetree and we can guard each others backs."

[Steckie]

Roqoan

"Well, i am actually in favor of letting the band stay here permanently or semi-permanently.
What i was thinking about is a headquarters in the city to get our business arranged. And a second headquarters a little while outside of the city where the men reside. There we can stable the animals, arrange the training, etc. And it has to be something defensible, since i don't want the Band to be betrayed again and have no safe haven to regroup.
And while i personally am not very fond of living in a city, it's the best chance for the Band to survive.
So you can arrange for a deal you think is good, if it involves a more permanent place for us to stay, that's great. But if you can't arrange that or you think it would be a bad deal, we can use the money he gives us to find something better. While in the city keep your eyes open for other places to stay. Tell Fash to do the same, two pairs of eyes are better than one."

[Gorgon_Heap]

Having avoided the ale but still nibbling on cake, Adalyn speaks up for the firt time this evening. "Sir, I shouldn't think there is cause for legal concern with this Buunk fellow. I've never heard of property owners who did not have the right to evict tennants for non-payment. His inability to do so with a simple writ or warrant may be more because of lack of personnel or inefficiency of the courts.

Our men may have been processed quickly only because the Watch commander himself was involved."



Night passes, and conversation resumes in the morning. You may go about your tasks.

Osric returns to Kanak's and takes Fash with him fo the meeting ... anyone else doing something?

It is now six days until your troops leave with Master Ironroot's convoy.

[Gorgon_Heap]

Buunk's home is in an upper-class neighborhood, complete with small strips of grass, trees and groomed flower patches seperating groups of properties. These aren't mansions, but they are certainly a far cry from the dilapidated, rat-infested and muck-filled streets the Band usually is accustomed to. There is a noticible Watch presence here, but the numbers don't seem greater - it's just the streets are empty of wagons, vendors, animals and travelers.

It's only around ninth bell when Osric and Fash arrive at the address. It's a spacious two-story building split into two halves, each with a seperate, outdoor rooved patio and large yard enclosed behind a four-foot wall. You can hear dogs running around in the yard.

[Gorgon_Heap]

Double-post.

[Havelock]

Your move?

Fash seemed to prefer letting Osric take the lead on his "turf", his predatory gaze scanning everything as if expecting an ambush to happen at any time.

[Dorni]

Osric

"We make our approach. With luck, he'll be in and he shouldn't be expecting us. We'll have the advantage."

Osric checked that his sword was clear in its scabbard. With a curt nod Osric headed up the walk to the front door, hand well clear of his weapon. "I don't expect to be attacked, so lets try not to start anything."

[Privateer]

Arrid

The head hurt. Really hurt.

Grumbling that spending too much time with his human friends must have degraded his ability to hold liquor, the dwarf got up and found a bit of leftover ale. It was only then that he felt well enough to focus for his magic.

He would have liked to head straight back to the temple and see if he could make some gold with fellow travellers, but the Captain's orders had him travelling to the local city hall, in hopes of finding an official.

He figured it should be simple enough to find out which official was responsible for hiring mercenaries to fill city's needs and set up an appointment, after all, one could just walk up to a clerk and ask. What could go wrong? And that was exactly what he did.


Dip: [roll0]

[Havelock]

Fash didn't betray much reaction, just enough to hint that he didn't need such advice.

[Gorgon_Heap]

Osric/Fash

A smartly-dressed butler, a human in his middle years, answers the door and betrays only a modicum of displeasure at your appearances. He registers acknowlegment and respect at your name when you announce yourself and allows you into a well-funished sitting room, which displays imported furniture and several pieces of pretty sculptures on shelves. There are also a few books, though by the titles they seem to be of dubious utility.

Master Buunk arrives about ten minutes later. He also is a human in his middle years, severely balding and bearing a thin, drooping mustache. His clothing is impeccable and of perfect cut, if also made of plain local material.

"Young Master Osric," he says politely in a thin, reedy voice. He looks at the gnome for introductions. "I had word from your uncle you had an endeavor in the offing that could be of use to me. I've finished breaking my fast but do please join me on the veranda have some tea. Please leave your arms here with Immorl," he says pointedly.

Buunk leads you through several small but well-appointed and spotlessly clean rooms to the shaded porch, where he seats himself at a small round table, indicating chairs for you.

"You are aware of my situation, I think. If you have questions, ask. What resources have you, and what offer have you?"

[Gorgon_Heap]

Arrid discovers simply by chatting up a few government drones that the current increased need for mercenary services in the city has been "temporarily" solved by posting contract ads at the local Adventurers' Guildhall.

This has apparently kept the city's civic heart from being clogged with armed mercs but has led to numerous fights between mercs and adventurers.

The Adventurers' Guildhall can be found in the Inn district near the city's South gate. From where you are staying at Kanak's, it's at the opposite end of the city - about 2 miles away.

[Privateer]

Arrid sighed on his way back. Red tape everywhere, such a waste of good daylight... Since the Adventurers' Guild was on the other side of the city, he decided to drop by Kanak's and round up a couple of mercs to come along. These reports of fights were interesting, and he didn't want to be stuck face to face with unfriendly competition alone half way across the city.

With the gang in tow, he then made the way to the Guild, where he chatted up whoever seemed friendly and looked for posted notices of available jobs.

[Dorni]

Osric

He wastes no time"I'll first thank you for seeing us so soon, but I can see you're interested in going straight to business," replied Osric congenially as he settled into a chair. He hadn't blinked at leaving his sword with the butler.

"Very well. I understand that you have been having issues with unwanted guests on several of your properties. My offer is to see to it that these squatters are removed from the premises." Osric paused momentarily to accept a teacup. "The details, as they say, are negotiable. To help you, I will need to know what properties are having the problem and the nature of the squatters."

[Gorgon_Heap]

"No, no. Just one property, which it is why this is all so vexing. It's been some six weeks since these terrible rascals chased out my paying tenants and took over the building. I've attempted on several occasions to have city officials intervene, but my calls continue to fall on deaf ears.

I must show that I cannot be bullied, lest other n'er-do-wells decide to wreck my remaining properties. At this point, since no one else is willing to take action, I must do what I must to extricate these hooligans.

So long as you are properly contracted, you can act as necessary to see them removed," Buunk says passionately.

[Havelock]

What do you know of them?

Fash broke his silence, up until this point, it was all about negotiations and politics, that was territory he wouldn't venture into when accompanying someone that should know that better.

But he was not so sure about Osric's ability to determine what tactical info would be relevant, and there must be some reason why he was told to tag along.

[Gorgon_Heap]

"Know of them? As I said, hooligans and ruffians. Cutpurses and street thugs. They're scaring the neighbors and I, personally, am not capable of intimidating them."

[Havelock]

civilians

So you do not know their numbers or what weapons they might have?

[Gorgon_Heap]

The man glares at Fash. "As I had already intimated, gnome, the arts of war or criminality are beyond my sphere of experience. Were that not the case I would hardly be in the market for those possessing such skill sets."

[Havelock]

Even a civilian can count heads

Fash held his tongue though, he had done enough antagonizing of prospective clients for the day.

[Dorni]

Osric

"Please excuse my companion's lack of eloquence. What he means is that such ruffians and street thugs as have moved into your property band together in order to feel tough. They understand threats of violence and lose the better part of their courage when they don't out number those they intend to bully. While the Black Band is comprised entirely of veteran soldiers, the likes of which are more than sufficient to the task of fighting a band of street thugs, it would be simpler to simply intimidate and disperse their gang. To that end, it would be helpful to determine how many men the Band should assign to the task. One squad may be sufficient, two squads certainly so. If your wish is to have the job done as quickly as possible, I can commit two squads to the task. The other factor that would figure into the job is the property itself. What is the size and nature of the property itself?"

[Gorgon_Heap]

Arrid

You make your way across the city, stopping to check signs and ask directions every now and them, attempting to decipher the seemingly countless languages you're bombarded with along the way.

Finally you arrive in the southern districts and find, amongst a number of taverns and inns, outfitters and utility shops, a surprisingly large signpost jutting up next to he street, reading "Lonetree Adventurers' Guild Headquarters." On the sign is carved a scroll crossed by a sword.

It is, in fact, two large nearly-identical four-story buildings connected by two 20-foot foot bridges on the second and fourth floors. It's strong and butressed heavily, but is made of both wood and stone.

It is midmorning by this the time you walk in the door of the building on the right - which sports the more visible and welcoming entrance. The wide, battered swinging doors part squeekily before you and you are struck by the intense smells of sweat, liquor, smoke, sulfer and roasted meats.

Just inside the door is a fairly mistreated sitting room with a scarred old desk, behind which sits a halfling with feet raised and his hands behind his head. He's wearing loose-fitting local cloth and looks exceedingly bored, but his eyes take in every detail of your appearance and bearing in a flash. An open doorway, blocked only by some strips of cloth and strings of beads, to your right leads to a huge dining area half-filled with strange, armed beings of every description sharing meals and talking of a thousand subjects.

"Well? Wadda ya want?" asks the halfling disinterestedly.

[Privateer]

Arrid took in the sights of the guild hall and found it an impressive structure. The organization must be more than a ragtag band. It figures that the city posted contracts with the. He grins at the halfling's question.

"I want what everyone wants," he replied. "A good, hearty fight and good gold to be gotten from it."

"That's a nice guildhouse you got here. Well, I hear the city's been posting contracts up through ye. Me an' some boys were wantin' to get in on some of that action. Ye got jobs for some seasoned blades?"

[Gorgon_Heap]

Arrid

"You're not a member," the halfling declares. He points at the unit patch you're wearing and grimaces. "You're a merc. Yeah, the city posted some jobs on the wall in there." He sands up and meanders around the desk to show you through the tattered beaded curtain. "Make it quick," he says, pointing at the nearest wall on the right.

As you pass by you see one of the bead strings the halfling was holding pass back into place. You look back and see your coin purse in his hand. He looks you in the eye as if daring you to call him out, and then shakes the bag. "I dunno, merc. You seem to be doin' all right for yourself."

[Dorni]

Osric

Osric listened politely as Bunnk described the three story building that he needed cleared out. The details matched up with what Osric had already seen. Now its just haggling over price.
"A three story building with an unknown number of occupants. Two squads would be best, that way we can avoid bloodshed. The Black Bland's rate is 4 sp per day for each soldier and we have a 3-day minimum. For 10 men, the job would cost 12 gold pieces. In addition to clearing the building, I will make certain the Black Band posts a guard detail for the 3 days after the building is secured. It wouldn't do to clear the occupants just to have them return the next night." And if Bunnk is clever, he'll see it also gives him time to assess the building and sort out any goods the ruffians leave behind.

[Gorgon_Heap]

The negotiations are brief as Buunk seems eager - almost desperate - to evict these ruffians with utmost haste and agrees to your bid of 12 gp instantly. You work him a little harder on salvage/confiscation rights, and concedes all items found within the building that he cannot prove he owns (mostly furnature, etc.) with the stipulation he has the right of first refusal on items and the Band will be compensated the items' worth following an appraisal.

[Havelock]

Off scouting, then

Fash seemed intent on heading straight to the location.

[Gorgon_Heap]

Fash OOC - I assume you want to scout the place out properly. Do you want to discuss it with Osric, include him at all, or just dash off and get to work? Please tell me your exact plan once you're there.

[Havelock]

OOC: He'll give Osric time to say something, suggestions/advice/objections/wish to accompany. If he doesn't, the plan is to circle around the area, figure out how the streetview is, possible apporach/escape routes. First impressions, nothing too deep, not yet.

[Dorni]

After wrapping up the negotiations with Bunnk, Osric will head back to Roqoan and the HQ (such as it is) to announce that we have a contract. He'll consent to Fash going to scout the building and advise him to watch for persons entering and exiting the building to count inhabitants. Osric will order Fash not to infiltrate the building on his own. When Osric returns to the Band, he'll start by informing Roqoan of the job and the terms.

[Steckie]

Roqoan

Roqoan lets out a huge sigh of relief. This job couldn't have come at a better time. Iit would keep the men busy, keep their thoughts away from the crushing defeat they suffered and aimed towards a more constructive purpose.
"Good work, Osric.
Did Buunk mention how many people are inside the building or what kind of people? There are multiple ways of getting people out of that building. Violence is one way. But negotiations are another, or hiring some of them, or directing them to a 'better place'. We'll try to do it as fast as possible so we have plenty of time to loot the building."

[Gorgon_Heap]

Cpl. Adalyn approaches and stands at parade rest.

"Shall I choose the men who will participate in this forray? I can also see to orders for those not going."

[Havelock]

OOC:

So plan:
1. Scout out the area around the building so he can draw a map of the place and the streets leading to and from it.
2. Get a good look at the building, first impressions, visible defenses/guards, sounds coming from within, the number and location of possible entrances/exits.
3. Attempt to find a good observation post, so that he can get a decent idea on the numbers of occupants, their activities, what weapons they might be carrying and whether or not they are experienced combatants, expecting trouble and anything else of interest.

By taking 10, I get the following results on skills I think might be relevant:
Hide: 28
Listen: 23
Move Silently: 24
Sense Motive: 21
Spot: 23

[Gorgon_Heap]

Fash:

It's only lunchtime on a fairly nice day, and the neighborhood is much higher-class than you are used to. The residence in question is one of several in the same overall building. It is sturdy stone with a heavy wooden front door. The back of the residences have even heavier doors in a small (5-10-foot) alley facing the backs of similar homes. The alley is dark absolutely filthy. There are no other exits, but there are windows (about 2'x3') on each floor. You aren't sure what sort of chimney setup the building has, though there are two stacks from each residence. You peruse for an hour or so, and observe a comings and goings of three people, and you count two others as they walk past windows. Your stomach clenches when you realize a man you'd seen carrying a package had walked the same route around the block three times and definately noticed you quietly moving from one darkened perch to another. A lookout! Again!!

[Havelock]

Make absolutely certain that their lookout isn't about, then find a good hideout to sit tight and watch. Assuming no indication of him being spotted occurs, he will maintain his post until such a time that he'll need to go back in order to get enough sleep to function throughout the next day, and also be able to head out a couple of hours before the others if necessary.

[Dorni]

Osric

"No Captain, Bunnk did not appear to know how many men it was who took over his building," Osric replied, not quite keeping the incredulity out of his voice. "But they're street thugs. They've unlawfully seized the building, and you want to negotiate? I talked Bunnk into hiring 2 squads so that we could intimidate them out, not offer them jobs."

[Gorgon_Heap]

Fash -

"definately noticed you quietly moving from one darkened perch to another"

The man, from about 50 feet away, crosses the street to the residence's side and glances at the house ... probably intending to go inside.

[Havelock]

Blech, do I need to spell it 100% clearly:

Wait until the lookout that apparently can pull a spot check of 30 is in a position where he can't see Fash at all, then move to some nice place with plenty of cover bonuses to hide and observe the place. If no indication of Fash being spotted at that place, no searching parties or whatever, he'll stay and observe until he needs to get back for reporting and sleep.

[Gorgon_Heap]

Fash -

Ok. The man with the package - the lookout - walks to the house, glacing around from the corners of his eyes, and walks inside. At that moment you are no longer under anyone's observation, and you make a dash from a shrubbery into a nearby alley. Within moments three people, two men and a woman - all human and wearing forgetable clothing - exit the front door and begin a quick and professional search of the whole street. They move fast and you are surprised -You scramble and hunch yourself up into a ledge corner provided by one of those hideous tiered roofs and watch as the walk beneath you. They look around carefully for about 15 minutes, even talking with passersby, before going back inside. One of them takes over as lookout, however, and it is not the original. Within a half-hour you feel safe enough to leave your hiding spot and return to the Band.

[Havelock]

I should have high enough listen to hear what they are saying, yes?

Anyway, I use cloak of deception (swift action, invisible for one round, takes a full round action to refresh, why didn't I remember that I had it before, heh) to be absolutely certain that nobody manages to follow the trail. Basically trusting tumble at 15 and move silently at 19 (taking 10 and penalties for full speed) to get through the crowd without bumping or otherwise attracting attention, 60 feet movement to a new hiding spot, sit there a round for maneuver refreshment, then do it all over again until he's a couple of blocks away. Head for the closest crowded street (while walking in the general direction away from the building), then follow the main traffic veins back to the inn.

At the inn, he goes straight to the captain and motions to Adalyn "we'll be needing an officer meeting"

As those present was gathered, he'd get on with it.
There are at least X* of them, a reasonable assumption would be twice that, combat capability and weaponry unknown. They are organized, with at least one competent lookout. Fash was drawing up a crude sketch as he was speaking.I would recommend asking our employer if he has available rooms in adjacent buildings for safer observation. To be on the safe side, I believe our best course of action is a nightly surprise raid. Should our employer have spare keys, that might be of use.

*OOC: I am not entirely sure how many Fash saw, it was the lookout, two inside, three coming/going, three going on search of him. That could be five, it could be eight.

[Gorgon_Heap]

Adalyn nods appreciatively. "Keys certainly would simplify entry, though I hesitate to gather an assault force on a stairway and wait for the door to open. I should think one rushes forth with the key and after, say, five seconds the rest of the group follows from across the street in this alley." She points at the alley Fash included in his crude map.


OOC:
That could be five, it could be eight.

Right you are. :smallamused:

[Gorgon_Heap]

OOC: DOn't know if y'all are just waiting for a map. Didn't think it was needed considering the simplicity of the area but put together a rough one... not sure how it's going to come out and the grid seems to have vanished ...

http://i1096.photobucket.com/albums/g326/Gorgon_Heap/RPG%20Maps/LonetreeResidentialnice.png

[Dorni]

Osric

Osric listens attentively to Fash's report. "It seem like they're well organized. I concur with Adalyn, the entrance needs to be quick. Sending someone forward to open the door and hitting the entrance right after sounds like a good option. Night would also be the best time to do this, both for surprise and because going in during the day would make a big scene. I can speak with Bunnk about keys, as for the assault, we're going to need someone quick and quiet to open the door. Fash or Keylin would be better for that than any of the men. As for the assault team, perhaps we want some of the other officers present considering how organized the occupants seem."