[5e IC] The Storm on the Horizon

[Dragodar]

OoC thread is here (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?581441-5e-OoC-The-Storm-on-the-Horizon&p=23719505#post23719505).
When last we left our intrepid adventurers, they were sneaking through Farindahl, the orc-occupied elven city, to rescue the Falcons, an elite force of elven commandos, from the clutches of their orc captors.

The alarm bells are ringing and as the orcs muster up search parties, the party's time grows shorter and shorter. Bendron has just boosted Gideon over the wall into the garrison district. As the companions near their goal, there are dozens of orcs on patrol searching for them.

A: Your current location
B: Dozen or so guards in market square
C: Original gate you came through
D: Where the guard who escaped climbed down a ladder
E: The garrison
Dotted Line: Route taken from last gate to current location.

https://i.ibb.co/dbjwG50/marketmapperimeter.png
https://i.ibb.co/xGsqKtb/marketmap.png
It is just after 11:00 PM on Tuesday, Iru 16th.

[Nightwing32193]

Gideon is taken aback at the strength of the dwarf but shakes off the initial surprise and looks around, seeing what’s around him. He rummages through his haversack and pulls out some rope and looks around for a place to tie a solid knot.

[Graehamkracker]

Bendron whispers up "What can you see?"

[Dragodar]

Gideon is able to very little through the darkness and rain, but he is able to make out several points of light on a wall about three hundred feet away. It appears to be the garrison, but between them is about three hundred feet of inky blackness, what Gideon can only assume to be empty field. As he observes this scene, he also see several groups of orcs walking along the roads through the district, most of them carrying torches.
The rain continues to pour down heavily as Gideon sits atop the wall, squinting into the darkness. The orcs near the gate appear to be splitting up, as half of them head through the gate, into the garrison district, and out of sight.

[Nightwing32193]

Gideon lets some of the rope down to his companions. If he can’t find a spot to secure a knot, he will attempt to drag Bendron up first, then the rest of the party.

[Dragodar]

The district walls are smaller then the walls on the outside of the city, only about two feet wide with no parapets or handholds. Gideon tosses the rope down and attempts to hoist his companions up after him.

Uamm DC 8: (1d20+7)[13]
Bendron DC 10: (1d20+7)[16]
Demryon DC 8: (1d20+7)[21]
Chadwick DC 14: (1d20)[12]
Gideon hauls Uamm, Bendron, and Demryon up with ease, but as he pulls Chadwick up, the heavy paladin struggles to breach the crest of the wall, and the wet rope slips from Gideon's hands. Chadwick falls almost ten feet and slams into the ground, his chain shirt rustling noisily.

Loud rain, dark night, wet grass, in the shadows. DC 20

Orc Perception WIS check: (1d20+2)[9]
Orc Perception WIS check: (1d20+2)[15]
Orc Perception WIS check: (1d20+2)[8]
Orc Perception WIS check: (1d20+2)[12]
Orc Perception WIS check: (1d20+2)[11]
Orc Perception WIS check: (1d20+2)[17]
There is no indication that the orc guards heard or saw anything. Aside from Chadwick getting the wind knocked out of him, the party seems to be doing fine.

[Nightwing32193]

Gideon mutters something that sounds like a string of foul curses in what everyone can assume is his Ul Vadr, ”Ben, can you help me drag that fat fûck up here? Does anyone have more rope?”

[Graehamkracker]

Bendron pulls out his rope and tosses an end down, aiming for the back of Chad's head.

[Dragodar]

The rope plops down squarely on the back of Chad's head, but for some strange reason he doesn't respond, and remains lying face down in the mud; most likely trying to recover some of his lost dignity before getting up.

[Nightwing32193]

”Chad, we don’t have all fûcking night. Get your fat âss movin’ brother!” Gideon calls down, making sure his voice isn’t heard by the SURROUNDING ORC SEARCH PARTIES.

[RealZachKraus]

Chadwick hisses back at Gideon, "Wouldn't be a problem if you could hold on to the damn rope." He grabs hold of the rope and tugs at it, feeling very distrustful of his companion's competence.

[Graehamkracker]

Bendron grabs the rope behind Gideon and braces for Chad's weight

[RealZachKraus]

Chadwick begins climbing the rope.

[Dragodar]

With their combined strength, Gideon and Bendron easily pull Chad up onto the wall with them.

Sitting atop the wall, they are able to very little through the darkness and rain, but are able to make out several points of light on a wall about three hundred feet away. It appears to be the garrison, but between them is about three hundred feet of inky blackness, what they can only assume to be empty field. As they observe this scene, they also see several groups of orcs walking along the roads through the dark garrison district, most of them carrying torches.

To the southwest, across the caravan district, the red glow of the burning building can be seen through the pouring rain. The guard plattoons still seem to be mustering their forces and milling about in slight disarray, not yet aware of the cause for alarm. Several civilians have begun opening their doors and peering out at the sound of the alarm bells.

[Graehamkracker]

Bendron studies the view. 'So we sneak in, open up some cages, and arm the prisoners. Are we hoping to break out one group of prisoners, or hit both garrisons?"

[Dragodar]

"Ideally both," says Uamm. "But we'll cross that bridge when we come to it."

[Graehamkracker]

"There's a bridge across? That could make the trip easier. Are we wanting to sneak into both, or sneak first then attack the second?"

[Nightwing32193]

”We should worry about that once we get over this wall and across that open space. It won’t be long til the entire city comes down on our heads. Bendron you and I can lower everyone down on the other side, then you lower me down, you jump, I’ll catch you.”

[Dragodar]

"A figure of speech, cáraía mión," Uamm says to Bendron as they begin preparing to descend the wall. "In other words, we'll solve that problem when it arises."

[Nightwing32193]

”Chad should go first in case he falls again.” says Gideon, handing the rope to Chad.

[RealZachKraus]

"Oh no bud, I'm lowering YOU down this time."

[Nightwing32193]

”Well that’s up to Bendron, he’s the one that has to lower your fat armor clad butt down.”

[Graehamkracker]

Bendron has already grabbed the rope and braced, motioning for the elves to start down.

[Dragodar]

As Gideon and Chadwick thoughtfully discuss their course of action, Uamm and Demryon slip nimbly down the rope while Bendron holds it. The two elves stand close to the wall below while Bendron waits for the humans to follow.

[Nightwing32193]

”Ok, hold on to the rope Chad.”Gideon waits then slides down after the elves, making sure stick to the shadows.

[Dragodar]

Gideon quickly joins the elves below, immediately followed by Chadwick, leaving Bendron alone at the top of the wall.

Bendron can make a STR (Athletics) check DC 15 to climb down or a DEX (Acrobatics) check DC 17 to jump down.

[Nightwing32193]

”We should probably try and break his fall.” Gideon whispers to Chad.

[Graehamkracker]

Bendron sits on the edge of the wall, taking one more look at the city they are to traverse, before climbing down to join his companions.


[roll0]
[roll1]

[Dragodar]

Climbing down alone without rope proves difficult for Bendron, and his grip slips, causing him to drop like a stone. The heavy, compact dwarf slams into Gideon and Chadwick, knocking them both over. All three wind up lying in the ankle-deep puddle, completely soaked and thoroughly covered in mud.

[Graehamkracker]

Bendron rolls a bit as he gets up. "Excellent, now we'll be harder to spot. Good idea. Off down that way then?" he adds as he points down a street towards the garrison

[Nightwing32193]

Gideon takes the deepest of breaths, ”Harder to spot, right, right, harder. To. Spot. Of course. Why didn’t I fûcking think of that.”

[Dragodar]

The party stands shivering in the chilly rain for a moment, and then Bendron heads across the field toward the garrison, moving at half speed so as to avoid detection. As the party follows him, they have little trouble scurrying stealthily across the dark field.

However, as they reach a point about halfway across, a brilliant flash of lightning illuminates the sky for several seconds, though it feels like a lifetime, exposing the group completely. An intense feeling of vulnerability washes over them as they note their total lack of cover. The darkness of the night sky is their only ally.

As the lightning fades, several seconds of tension pass without incident. They seem to remain undetected for now, but another flash of lightning like that, especially once they get closer to the garrison, could be their undoing. They have another hundred or so feet between them and the nearest wall of the garrison.


Red X = Your Location

https://i.ibb.co/QFFjBJh/garrisondistrict.png

[Nightwing32193]

”Well, lightning still exists, still very bright. At least I’m covered in mud so they won’t see me.” with that Gideon flops down and rolls around in the mud, completely covering himself.

[Nightwing32193]

”We should start moving.”Gideon gets up and starts running across the open space, looking for cover as he gets closer to the garrison.

[Dragodar]

Gideon takes off ahead of the party, sprinting in an attempt to make the most of the cover of darkness while it lasts.

[Graehamkracker]

Bendron spring up and follows, quietly cursing the betrayl of weather and his shorter legs.

[Nightwing32193]

As Gideon nears the fort he looks for a place to take cover and let the others catch up.

[Dragodar]

Sprinting through the pitch black, Gideon almost doesn't see the wall of the garrison, nearly colliding with it. Coming to a sudden halt, Gideon sees that he is just underneath the overhang of a parapet on the wall above him. From where he stands he can see the faint glow of the guards' torches from atop the wall. Within moments, the rest of the party catches up, and not a moment too soon.

Almost as soon as Bendron brings up the rear, huffing and puffing, another crack of lightning lights up the field, sending every detail of the onion and cabbage crops into sharp relief and creating stark shadows across the wet ground.

[Nightwing32193]

”I thought dwarves were supposed to be natural sprinters.” whispers Gideon with a giant grin on his face as he continues in hushed tones, ”The moat runs through the garrison, does anyone have sunrods, or a light source that’s not a torch?”

[Graehamkracker]

"Light will be seen. Be of the dark."

[Nightwing32193]

”Not all of us can see in pitch darkness. Can you lead us around the wall to where the moat enters the fort?”

[Graehamkracker]

Bendron produces his rope and hands an end to Gideon as he loops a bowline around his waist. "If you feel two tugs, pull me back out." Once he's confident Gideon and Chad are ready, he slips into the moat


[roll0]
[roll1]
+3 if Athletics, +5 if Survival

[Nightwing32193]

Gideon wraps the rope tightly around his forearm and digs his heels in waiting for the dwarf’s signal.

[Dragodar]

As you push off from the edge, you immediately feel the weight of your armor dragging you down. You press forward, using your strength to keep yourself above water. You are able to swim forward ten feet per round.

Bendron soon reaches a small drainage culvert in the wall, about three feet across. It is almost fully submerged in the water, and seems to be the conduit for the water that feeds the moat.

As Bendron pushes out into the water, Gideon almost immediately feels the rope tighten against his grip. The dwarf is far from buoyant, and his armor is no help at all, but he seems to be making very gradual progress. Within moments the dwarf is out of sight. Every now and then, lightning flashes, and the party can see Bendron's head bobbing above the water as he slowly make his way further along the wall.

[Nightwing32193]

”Should we be following him down the river?” Gideon asks the party as he slowly lets out the rope to give Bendron slack.

[Graehamkracker]

Finding the hole in the wall, Bendron takes a couple deep breaths before starting to swim through, hoping to come up on the other side near the wall, shrouded in darkness. Ready for invisible if needed

[Dragodar]

Bendron gets about fifty feet along the wall and then runs out of rope. So far he's found nothing but solid wall and wet moat.

[Graehamkracker]

Bendron unties the rope and gives it a slow firm pull, then releases. He heads to the edge of the water and climbs out, sneaking towards where the cells may be, checking corners for guards. He has invisibility ready as soon as he thinks he may have been spotted by guards.

Stealth Check: [roll0]

[Nightwing32193]

[roll0] and this to lengthen the post so it posts

[Dragodar]

Gideon feels the rope tighten and pull, but it is a steady pressure, not two tugs. There is a brief pause, and then the pressure resumes before stopping once again. The barbarian intuitively knows that the dwarf is trying to swim further but is out of rope. The pressure stops as Bendron, fifty feet away and obscured by darkness, begins treading water, waiting patiently.

[Nightwing32193]

”Oh, right.” Gideon begins walking toward Bendron, almost as if he has him on a leash and is taking him for a walk.

[Dragodar]

Gideon begins walking along the moat, alongside the swimming dwarf. From where he is, Gideon feels extremely exposed as he looks up at the guards on the wall. Any second, lightning could flash and reveal his position to the watchful orcs. Slowly but surely, Gideon makes his way along the moat's edge as Bendron swims along the wall.

[Nightwing32193]

[roll0]
Gideon attempts to stay hidden.

[Dragodar]

Gideon begins walking along the edge of the moat, stepping out from under the cover of the parapet. As a distant flash of lightning dimly lights up the sky for a brief moment, Gideon is able to see the dark silhouettes of the guards along the top of the wall.

Guards PP: 18
Moving slowly, and dropping his mud-saturated body to the ground every time there is a flash of lightning, Gideon is somehow able to evade the watchful eyes of the guards along the wall. The pair make their way down the moat ever so slowly. Ten feet, pause. Twenty feet, pause. Five feet, pause again. Soon they are out of sight of the rest of the group.

After several minutes of this, they reach the southwest corner of the garrison. As Gideon watches as Bendron swims up to a small hole in the wall, a drainage culvert mostly submerged underwater, and disappears out of sight as he swims inside it.

Bendron swims through the culvert and surfaces on the other side. He estimates the wall to be about ten to twelve feet thick.

Inside the garrison, Bendron finds himself at the southwest corner. The wall behind him abuts with the west wall about twenty feet to his left, and ahead of him there appears to be a guardhouse, possibly a captain's quarters, standing on a tiny islet in the moat. The windows of the house are lit from within. A small bridge spans the ten or so feet of moat between the house and the yard.

To his right, the garrison yard sprawls out before him. All along the walls of the garrison, barrack buildings stand side by side, while the middle of the yard is open area. From where he is, Bendron can see the guards patrolling the top of the wall, but the garrison yard itself seems deserted. A couple of the barracks buildings windows are lit, but most of them are dark.

There are torches burning every few yards around the fringes of the garrison yard, and glowing lanterns at the door of each building. The yard itself is grass, but with all the rain it has essentially turned into one big mud puddle.

=============

Bendron unties the rope and gives it a slow firm pull, then releases. He heads to the edge of the water and climbs out, sneaking towards where the cells may be, checking corners for guards. He has invisibility ready as soon as he thinks he may have been spotted by guards.

Stealth Check: (1d20+2)[9]

=============

Almost as soon as Bendron reaches the edge of the water, there is a shout from the wall behind him as an orc calls out to his companions, pointing at the figure of the dwarf. Immediately, Bendron mutters a few arcane words and his figure shimmers and dissolves as he fades into invisibility.

The orcs, however, are on guard duty, and despite losing sight of the dwarf, continue to converse and point. Four orcs have gathered at the corner of the wall and are conversing animatedly and holding their torches aloft.

From the limited Orcish that Bendron is able to understand, they seem to be discussing what one of them had just seen. One of the orcs is pointing at where Bendron had been visible just moments ago, while the others are questioning him on what he saw and where.

Two of the orcs, one of them being the one who had originally spotted Bendron, head east along the south wall, making for the steps that lead down into the yard below, while the other two stay on the parapet and hold their torches high, gazing searchingly at the place where Bendron is standing.

Gideon waits while Bendron swims through the culvert. About twenty seconds later, he hears a shout from the top of the wall and sees, by the light of their torches, several of the Orcs on the wall gather together near the corner. They don't seem to have spotted Gideon, but they are pointing at something inside the garrison and conversing animatedly.

Chadwick, Demryon, and Uamm wait patiently by the gate. Several minutes pass as Bendron swims away with Gideon following along on land. After a few minutes of waiting, a couple muffled yells can be heard from the other end of the garrison, nearly three hundred feet away. There is no sound of combat or duress, and after the first couple shouts, there is quiet again.

To their left along the road, two orcs with torches begin walking down the road in their direction. The three companions are safely hidden from the watchers on the wall underneath the parapet, but if these two patrolling guards get too close, they may very well spot them.

Chadwick, Demryon, and Uamm are about twenty feet off the road, huddled next to the wall. There is a chance the orcs will pass by without noticing them,
but there is also a chance the orcs will glance over and see them.

The orcs will be within sight of them within thirty seconds.

The alarm bells throughout the surrounding districts continue to toll out over the droning sound of the steady rainfall, and every few moments a distant flash of lightning will streak across the sky and a low rumble of thunder will roll across the plains.

[Graehamkracker]

As the orcs close in on his location, Bendron tries to slink away quietly towards the prisons and gate, hoping to open one of them and get some reinforcements.

[Dragodar]

As soon as he steps out of the water and onto land, despite his attempt to move slowly and sneakily, Bendron's invisible feet begin to leave deep, squelching depressions in the saturated, muddy ground.

The orcs have reached the bottom of the steps about thirty yards away and are heading for the edge of the pond. Looking down, Bendron can see two very deep, very clear boot prints where his feet should be. The orcs will be upon his position in less than ten seconds.

Ahead of Bendron stretches the wide, muddy expanse of soaking yard, behind him lies the pool of water he just emerged from.
Demryon leans over to Chad and urgently whispers, "What should I do? I can get off two shots before they're upon us but the guards on the wall will see the torch fall." Demryon waits for Chadwick's direction, confident in the paladin's leadership.

Chadwick presses a finger to his lips and whispers back, "Hold tight and stay still, bud. Let's ride this one out. Nock a couple of arrows though, just in case."

[Dragodar]

The three companions stay totally still, waiting while the orcs slowly approach.

Disadvantage:https://i.ibb.co/svVkqhp/Chad-Stealth.png
As the orcs close in, a distant bolt of lightning streak across the sky, the light briefly glinting off of Chadwick's armor. One of the orcs glances over and for an instant, his face seems to contort in a frown of confusion, as though he doesn't quite believe what he saw. In a flash, the lightning is gone and the three companions are hidden again. The orc nudges his companion and they both hold up their torches higher, staring into the shadows under the parapet. They turn to each other and appear to be conversing in whispers for a moment, as though debating whether or not they should investigate. After but a a few seconds, they turn back toward the hidden companions and step off the road, beginning to advance toward the hiding spot.

Instantly, two bowstrings snap and two arrows buzz over Chadwick's shoulders.

Demryon Attack: (1d20+9)[21]
Demryon Damage: (1d8+5)[9]

Uamm Attack:(1d20+9)[24]
Uamm Damage: (1d6+5)[10]
Both arrows find their marks, landing with two loud meaty smacks, directly in the necks of both orcs. For a brief moment, the two guards stand still, looks of shock on their faces, before falling flat on their faces. Both torches drop to the ground, sizzling as they land on the saturated grass. They do not go out completely but fizzle and smolder on the ground.

There is a shout of alarm from above them.
As he watches the orcs on the wall pointing down into the garrison and excitedly talking, Gideon also hears the distinct snap of two bowstrings followed immediately by two meaty thuds. The sound originates from two to three hundred feet to his right, in the direction of Chadwick, Demryon, and Uamm.

[Nightwing32193]

Gideon waits to see if he hears any noises after that while looking up at the orcs above him.

(If it’s apparent the the arrows were hostile OR if he can’t tell either way) He curses quietly and gives the rope two quick but distinct tugs and waits for twelve seconds for Bendron to reappear. After the twelve seconds he drops the rope and quietly draws his greatsword before slowly (but not too slowly) and quietly making his way back towards the rest of the party, alarmed over what he heard.
(If they’re for sure friendly for some reason, or if they hit the it’s above him, he stays put.

[Graehamkracker]

Bendron quickly reverses his steps along the more solid ground, placing his feet in the old footprints to try to reverse them. When he reaches the last few footprints that look more lasting, he walks backwards away from the moat, in his own steps where they already exist, veering closer to the north wall away from the hunting orcs. (He's hoping to leave a trail of prints leading towards the moat.) As he moves further away and the orcs move closer, he pulls his grappeling hook from his pack and prepares to throw it into the moat as a decoy when the orcs are about 20 feet from it.

[Dragodar]

RECAP OF 02-12-19 LIVE SESSION
=============
========
===

After Bendron and Gideon left, Bendron swimming in the moat and Gideon following along on the shore with the rope, Chadwick and the elves stayed put under the parapet overhang. For a minute or so, this seemed a safe plan. But all too soon, another problem presented itself: walking down the road from the east were two orc guards, both holding torches and spears. Their trajectory would take them directly past the hiding infiltrators, within mere feet of them. Looking at each other frantically, Chadwick and the elves began to converse urgently in low whispers.

"What should I do? I can get off two shots before they're upon us but the guards on the wall will see the torch fall," Demryon whispered to Chadwick.

The paladin hesitated for brief moment, then responded quietly: "Hold tight and stay still, bud. Let's ride this one out. Nock a couple of arrows though, just in case."

=============

Gideon knelt next to the moat, waiting for some sign of Bendron's return. Hearing commotion on the wall above him, he gave the rope two tugs to signal the dwarf to abort, but the rope felt slack. At that moment, Gideon heard the distant thrum of bowstrings and made a snap decision. Yanking on the rope, he hauled it in hand over hand, feeling a disturbing lack of resistance. As he pulled, his dread grew, until his fears were confirmed when the loose end of the rope slipped out of the water with no Bendron attached. Hesitating for but a second, Gideon cursed under his breath and quickly stowed the rope as he took off east along the moat, running as quickly as he could back toward his companions while staying low and hidden.

As Gideon ran along the moat to return to his companions, two of the guards on the wall began shouting and pointing at him. Pausing for a moment, Gideon wracked his brains for some snatch of Orcish. Spitting out a garbled version of something he'd heard before, Gideon crossed his fingers, hoping it meant something hat made sense.

The orcs immediately called out in affirmation and turned around, heading back to the southwest corner of the wall, where there seemed to be a good deal of confusion and furor.

Gideon breathed a sigh of relief as all of his nerves tingled with adrenaline. Putting his head down, he sprinted back to Chadwick and the elves. As he reached the east end of the moat, he heard two more bowstrings snap taut just ahead and out of sight.

=============

Tip-toeing through the courtyard and sticking to the shadows, Bendron made his way toward the front gate. To his left, he was able to spot three guards standing outside one of the barrack buildings, keeping a tight watch. "Welp, that's where the prisoners are I'll reckon," the dwarf thought to himself, making a mental note of the building.

Continuing forward, Bendron soon made his way to the east end of the yard, peering in through the windows of the barrack buildings as he passed. Most were bunk rooms, full of sleeping orc soldiers. Some were kitchens and small mess halls. The lights were all off.

Approaching the front gate, Bendron spied two guards standing inside the gate, and four more on the parapets above. As he watched them, he noticed the guards on the wall begin to shout agitatedly and point at something outside the gate. The two guards inside the gate shouted up at the orcs on the parapet, and few words were bandied between the two groups.

Bendron recognized phrases like "intruders" and "go look" but could not discern much more than that. The two guards by the gate opened a small door in the main gate, and Bendron watched as they were both immediately felled by arrows. Within seconds, Chadwick, Gideon, Demryon and Uamm came rushing around the corner. As they approached the gate, several guards on the wall who had noticed the scene below were already rushing toward the door.

As Bendron watched, he saw Gideon and Chadwick take defensive positions behind either side of the door. But upon seeing their two dead companions with arrows in their chests, the backup guards immediately slammed the door and barred it shut.

=============

The orcs continued along their path, only feet away from the group hiding in the shadows. At the most inopportune moment possible, a flash of lightning streaked across the sky, illuminating the area and glinting brightly off of Chadwick's armor. The orc stopped in their tracks, suprise evident on their faces as the lightning faded and darkness returned.

The guards began to move toward the group, unsure of what they'd seen. But before they could make it more than few steps, Demryon and Uamm had released a pair of arrows into their throats. Both orcs dropped instantly, their torches rolling from their lifeless hands and fizzling on the muddy ground.

From above, several shouts of alarm could be heard from the guards atop the parapet. The sound of a door could be heard opening around the bend of the parapet.

"Now's our shot," Uamm said, ducking for cover and sprinting around the bend. As He and Dermryon rounded the bend, they saw a door opening in the main gate. Not wasting any time, they quickly fired and took down the orcs who had opened the door.

=============

As his thoughts raced with ideas for how to proceed, Chadwick saw a dark shape rush around the edge of the moat. As he closed in, they recognize it to be Gideon.

"Where the fock is Bendron?" Chadwick hissed at Gideon.

"He might actually be dead," Gideon responded abruptly. "We have to move."

"This way," Chadwick responded, following Uamm and Demryon around the bend. Gideon followed and the two of them soon saw the scene in front of them. Two dead orcs on the road behind them, an open door in the gate before them, and two more dead orcs inside the doorway.

"Follow my lead," Gideon said, quickly taking up a hidden position just behind the door frame. Chadwick immediately stationed himself on the other side, and they waited.

A moment later, the door slammed shut, and, despite Gideon's attempt to shove it open, was barred before they could react.

=============

Seeing his friends just outside the gate, Bendron quickly sprinted across the yard and up the stone steps to the parapet, where the orc guards had been standing just moments before. To his right, three more orcs were quickly approaching his position, running toward him with their weapons drawn.

"Rope!" the dwarf called down to his friends. There were several moments of silence during which Bendron waited with bated breath, and then a small short sword came sailing over the battlement. Tied to its pommel was the end of a rope.

Bendron wasted now time in securing the rope to the battlement, and his companions had soon joined him on the parapet, just in time to greet the orc guards who were rushing down upon them.

[Nightwing32193]

Damian Backstory (Gideon 2)

Damian was born the illegitimate son of Jacen, king of the tribe Ul Vadr and Ana, a roaming Shieldmaiden. Despite her warrior ways, Ana settles down to give her son a good and peaceful life. Using the money she had earned over her years of mercenary work she was able to give Damian a comfortable upbringing. Nonetheless Damian was restless. Between a quick temper, petty theft and scrappy fist fights at a young age it seemed Damian was always getting into trouble, always with someone bigger, older, or with higher social status. When he was 15 Damian stole the local magistrate’s horse to impress a girl, the mayors daughter. When he was caught with both the horse and the daughter the mayor overreacted and sentenced Damian to execution at the chopping block.
While sitting in his prison cell the night before his execution, he began to hear a commotion in the jail, short, sudden screams then muffled thuds. Before he could count to 10 a figure appeared in front of his cell and unlocked the door, grabbing him unceremoniously by the scruff of the neck he was led out of the jail and out of the city to two packed horses ready to go. His savior finally unmasked herself and Damian was stunned to see his mother, fully armed. Her eyes were so disapproving that Damian could literally feel his penis getting smaller.
They rode in silence for a long while before Damian started bombarding Ana with questions. After he was done Ana stayed silent until the made camp. Once a fire was going Ana started deep into the flames before recalling her past life. Damian’s eyes grew wide with both awe and surprise at the woman his mother was.
The next morning Ana woke her son up at the crack of dawn by tossing a scimitar at Damian’s rib cage. “Defend yourself.” She cried and began attacking him.
For having no official training Damian lasted about 7 seconds before being disarmed. “Again.” She said, “If you’re going to be causing me this much trouble I can’t afford to be killing every jail guard in Aezelon to keep you safe.”
Days went by, Ana hunted and scavenged to keep them fed, while also teaching her son how to fend for himself.
At last they entered the next town/city. While still very green, Damian could still handle himself better then most 15 year olds.
The next few years were very different from the last few. Leaving much of what they had behind they had to scavenge and make their way on the streets. This helped Damian develop incredible stealth and pickpocketing skills as well as the ability to read people and know their motives before sometimes even they did.
Seven years passed, Damian and Ana had made quite a name for themselves as bounty hunters as well as protectors of the helpless and less fortunate. Wether it was invading bandits or a crooked city guard, mother and son were there to deal with them.
While Damian was just getting into the life, Ana was getting older and tired of it. One day not far removed from his twenty-third birthday, she sat him down like she used to do when he was a small boy.
Ana told him she was retiring her sword, but if Damian so much as stepped one hair out of line, or went against anything she’d taught him, she would come out of retirement to hunt him down. With that she handed him a beautiful, ornate scimitar. “This is a gift your father gave to me. If you should ever find him, he’ll know and he’ll finally get to see the man you’ve grown into.”
With that she sent Damian out on his own.
Slightly shaken about his mother’s retirement and being out on his own for the first time, he bucked up, did a few bounty jobs to get a substantial amount of coin before heading to..........once there he began walking around the streets, mingling with the locals and quickly made several important contacts in the city.

Lying: bends the truth to get what he wants.

Cheating: Cheat to win.

Stealing: Yes.

Killing: Often kills for money

Authority: Total loaner for the most part.

Regime/Politics: no, unless they’re paying me.

Philosophy: the ends justify the means. we free to choose our actions

The Law: Hunts bounties, but also breaks the law almost habitually for

The Unknown: Cynic, doesn’t really care for any of that.

Other People: Preferring to work alone, he uses people and manipulates people to get what he wants.

Habits: Temper, drinking, fornicating, pretty standard.

Secrets: He May have knocked up that mayors daughter.

Class: While he doesn’t hate or resent the rich, he’s defiantly always stood up for the little guy.

Pride 3
Avarice 1
Lust 2
Gratitude 1
Gluttony 2
Wrath 1
Diligence 3

Short Term:
Make money.
Medium:
Sell out
Long:
Bro down, possibly find and meet his father.

[Graehamkracker]

After a long quiet morning spent packing up camp, overshadowed by the sword piercing the nearby hill, Bendron breaks the days silence. "We can't say out in this wilderness, and there's a long trip to any other city." The last words are tinged with a slight disgust and glance back to Farindahl. "It's either more elves at Suldetta or across the mountains to Urdale"

[Graehamkracker]

After no response and realizing that Chad is still in the denial of grief, Bendron adds: "Either way, we need to head north. It's time to get moving." Bendron gets up and stretches, walking away from the camp to give Chad some space and prepare for the trip.

[RealZachKraus]

Chad stares off into the distance, but shakes himself enough to stammer out a few cold words "I have had quite enough of elves."

[Dragodar]

Having made himself perfectly clear, Chadwick begins wordlessly packing his belongings. The elegantly decorated short sword stands in noble salute over the soft mound of freshly disturbed dirt and casts a somber shadow on the spirits of the two companions as they prepare to leave their friend behind in his new and final resting place.

The sun peeks over the horizon, its merry rays blissfully unaware of the tragedy that it missed over the night. The wet ground steams as the warm glow lifts the humidity from the grass and into the air. The day is muggy and the air is thick as the sun slowly rises higher in the sky.

[Dragodar]

Chadwick finally stirs, gathering up his things. He pauses over Gideon's memorial and lays one hand on the hilt of the sword, his other hand clutching the symbol of Hyroneus around his neck. He lets out a single tear as he mutters a prayer under his breath. After what seems like an age, he turns around and meets Bendron's gaze. "Let's get as far away from here as possible."

As the two of them begin to pack of their things and break camp, A beam of sunlight breaks through the clouds and reflects off of the short sword in Gideon's grave. A fierce breeze rushes in, cool and refreshing, and dispels the thick humidity in the air. From somewhere behind them, Chadwick and Bendron hear a soft whinnying. Turning around, they see a majestic white warhorse cantering toward them, a massive beast nearly seventeen hands tall.

As it comes nearer, they see a dark spot on it's forehead. Upon closer inspection, they can see that it is the only dark hair on the entire beast, and it forms the shape of a shield, the symbol of Hyroneus.

Chadwick and Bendron gaze at the celestial creature in utter awe and fascination while it gives off an otherworldly glow in the reflection of the morning sun. It is several moments before Chadwick is able to speak. "Never before in my life have I seen such tangible and miraculous evidence of the providence of Hyroneus," he whispers in amazement, as he reaches out a hand to the beast's muzzle. The absolute surprise and shock is evident on the paladin's face. It is clear he had no expectation of such a boon.

The horse saunters directly up to Chad and nuzzles his hand affectionately.

https://i.ibb.co/5F59mzw/steed.jpg
As the horse nuzzles your hand, you also feel a soft nudge on the edge of your consciousness, like a voice inside your head. Gingerly reaching out with your mind, you feel the mind of the warhorse. It is strange and animalistic, thinking in images and emotions with no words, but you feel an immediate sense of familiarity and understanding. You feel close to this beast, as though you have known it for a very long time. It's consciousness, though bestial, is intelligent for a horse, and you get the acute feeling that it can understand your mental commands.

[Graehamkracker]

Bendron keeps a fair distance away and looks up at the horse, awed. "It seems that we've been blessed on our course - perhaps something awaits us at Urdale."

[RealZachKraus]

Chadwick, still in shock himself, notices Bendron's obvious trepidation. Attempting to calm him down, he says, "I'm gonna keep it real with you, this has never happened to me before. But I felt the power flowing through me when it happened so this is definitely a gift from Hyroneus... And plus, free magic horse. Let's ride." He blinks away his remaining tears and forces a smile.

[Graehamkracker]

"I.... I have no idea how to.

[RealZachKraus]

"I'll give you a boost."

[Graehamkracker]

Bendron accepts Chad's help and awkwardly sits atop the horse, grabbing onto it's mane to stabilize himself. "This cannot be the best way to travel."

[Dragodar]

After situating themselves upon Chad's new steed, the pair set off northeast. As they travel, Farindahl slowly shrinks in the distance. Stealing small glances over his shoulder every now and then, Chadwick soon loses sight of the short sword stuck in the mound of fresh dirt. The sun rises higher in the sky as they continue forward, leaving the occupied city and their old friend behind them.

=============

Hours pass, mostly in silence, as the two unlikely friends make their way toward the Sudrin Mountains. As the sun passes its peak and begins to dip toward its bed in the west, the mountains become visible on the horizon far to the north.

=============

After what feels like ages of gradual progress, the trio find themselves in the foothills of the Sudrin Mountains. The sun is dipping low toward the western horizon, and the evening songbirds have begun to sing. Already they have gained altitude just entering the foothills, and the air feels colder and thinner here. Chadwick's steed seems tired.

[Graehamkracker]

As the cooler evening air came in and the mountains rose to reach the sun on the horizon, Bendron perks back up and eventually breaks the silence. "That orc - the one who ran off with my halberd - you seemed to have some history. Who is he?"

[RealZachKraus]

Chadwick eyes the sun sinking low, "it's late, and Gideon is getting tired. We should make camp for the night, I think." Reaching out with his mind he beckons for the horse to crouch down to its knees, making an easier dismount for the dwarf.

[Graehamkracker]

As the horse nears the ground Bendron happily jumps off, mussing his feet in the dirt. "You're right, but that's not answering the question." Bendron starts to look around for a good patch of ground to camp in. "Also, Is it common to name horses after people? Even those who have just passed?"

[RealZachKraus]

"I wasn't avoiding the question. It's a sore subject, for sure but I owe you that much. And yes. All the time."

[Graehamkracker]

"How about just a name and how he knew you then?"

[Dragodar]

As the two friends speak with one another, they come to a stop near a small grove of four spruce trees. There is an open space between them about twenty by twenty feet, and it appears to be a comfortable and relatively safe place to make camp.

Having ridden without a saddle all day, both Chadwick and Bendron take one level of exhaustion.
Gideon whinnies and nickers softly as Chadwick dresses him down for the night.

You feel a mental message from your steed that can only be described as a strong feeling: HUNGRY.
They continue their conversation as Chadwick tethers Gideon to one of the trees and Bendron sets up camp.

[Graehamkracker]

Eventually realizing that now was not the time for Chad, Bendron sets to setting up camp, and preparing a mental list of things to do once they reached the city.

As the sun rises, Bendron and Chad pack up the camp and head back onto the road. Bendron is still uncomfortable upon the horse, and less comfortable with the silence, but is able to find paths through the mountains that ought to be relatively safe. During the quiet ride, his mind wanders, trying to discern the qualities of the mountain stone and wondering if there would be any dwarves in Urdale and what they might remember of the Lifstill

[Nightwing32193]

”You know mountains pretty well right? How long do you figure it will take us to get through them? Or over them.” he says, remembering what happened last time they took the path through mountains.

[Dragodar]

As the pair heads into the mountains, the air begins to thin and the ground becomes rockier. The grass here is sparser, and where there is vegetation it is coarse and rough, adapted to the dry and cold conditions.

The further up and in they travel, the colder it gets. Despite the sun rising higher in the sky, the temperature drops rapidly as they ascend, and soon it is difficult to breath. They find themselves stopping more and more frequently as they continue their journey, growing tired far more quickly. The wind is stronger up here, coming in powerful gusts and never settling to anything less than a strong breeze.

They realize, gazing up at the peaks far above them and realizing what little progress they've seemingly made in the last several hours, that the elements here are extremely unforgiving. They are already at about the same altitude they were when they discovered the entrance to the city of Dorôwil, and they are hardly more then a fifth of the way up the mountainside. The peaks tower above them, seemingly miles away. This journey will be highly treacherous to say the very least.

Soon it is faster to walk than to ride Chadwick's steed, and both companions realize that if they trek much higher, the horse will not be able to accompany them.

You recognize the igneous stone of the mountains. The Sudrin Mountains housed the cities of the Yundri many centuries ago, and unlike most of the rest of the world, the stone feels the same. Having grown up underground, however, the outsides of the mountains are entirely unfamiliar to Bendron.

[Graehamkracker]

"I don't know much about the outside of them. I'd imagined there would be a road, but it seems our horse and driver have a poor sense of direction. We may want to search for safer passage."

[Nightwing32193]

”Ya know what? That is so uncalled for, you douche bag. Maybe we should go through the mountains after all. Or maybe around them? What do you think?” asks Chad between heavy breathing.

[Dragodar]

About a hundred yards away, Chadwick and Bendron spot a figure approaching them. It appears to be a bear standing on its hind legs and waving at them as it ambles toward them.

You feel a prodding mental message from your steed that can only be described as an urgent feeling: VERY HUNGRY.

[Graehamkracker]

Bendron, doubled over from laughter and shortness of breath, points at the figure, words punctuated by laughs and gasps. "I think.... I'm seeing... things.

[Nightwing32193]

Chad grips his medal and stares blankly.

[Graehamkracker]

Peering at the figure, Bendron continues: "Is that a 'I also see the friendly bear?' Because it's not clear."

[Nightwing32193]

Chad sacks up and readies his great axe that he also named Gideon after his fallen brother.

[Dragodar]

As the shape gets closer, the pair can see that it is a humanoid figure wrapped liberally in thick furs and hides. The figure continues to wave as it approaches. When it is within earshot, maybe forty or fifty yards away, it shouts out in a muffled voice through the furs on its head: "Ho there! Wrong way!"

Like this except he also has furs over his face and hands.
https://static01.nyt.com/images/2016/02/14/fashion/14TRAPPER4/14TRAPPER4-articleLarge.jpg

[Graehamkracker]

Bendron yells back: "Are you sure? I think this is west!"

[Nightwing32193]

”Hold up there bud, explain yourself!” Chad responds, keeping Gideon handy while also positioning closer to Bendron.

[Dragodar]

The furry shape hustles forward, stopping about twenty feet away. It bends over, putting its hands on its knees to catch its breath. After a moment, it reaches up and pulls the fur scarf from its face, revealing an older looking human male face, replete with full gray beard and piercing blue eyes.

"Keep going that way," the man says in a gruff voice, gesturing in the direction they were headed, "And you'll either end up dead or turning around anyway."

He pauses, still breathing heavily, and pulls a large waterskin from his belt, struggling with his cumbersome furs for a moment to open the stopper. He takes a long drink and then replaces the stopper.

"That path will lead you up that hill for another five hundred feet or so, then it flattens off into a plateau with sheer walls on either side. That'll go on for almost two miles before it drops off at a cliff, probably about almost a hundred foot drop. What the hell are a couple of downcountry folks like you doing in these mountains anyway?" he asks, eyeballing the pair and their distinct lack of warm clothing.

As the icy wind bites at their exposed skin, Chadwick and Bendron feel slightly envious of the man's copious amounts of furs.

[Graehamkracker]

"Looking for a road."

[Dragodar]

The man shakes his head.

"No roads around here for miles. Closest one's about twenty miles east. I suggest you head back down to lower altitude before nightfall. Wouldn't want to be caught up here wearing what you're wearing when the sun starts to go down. Good luck fellas."

The man turns away, wrapping his face with the scarf as he does, and begins to head back in the direction he came from.

[Nightwing32193]

Chad looks at Bendron and shrugs. ”I have a feeling he’s not wrong. Might not be a bad idea to try and go around these here mountains.”

[Graehamkracker]

"Fjandinn. Let's try this again." Bendron turns to walk back the way they came

[Nightwing32193]

Chad follows.

[Dragodar]

The pair dejectedly turns around and heads back down the mountainside. The sun is dipping lower in the sky and evening is approaching. The thought of having spent most of their day climbing only for it all to have been a waste has understandably put them in less than jolly spirits.

Soon they find themselves back at their previous campsite, tired and hungry.

You feel a forceful mental message from your steed that can only be described as a singular feeling: STARVING. In the almost two days since Hyroneus granted him to you, the horse has not eaten.
It is late afternoon on Sunday, Iru 14th.

[Nightwing32193]

”Well that was a giant fûcking waste of time. What’s the plan, Ben. What should we do. Where should we go?”

[Dragodar]

Gideon lays down, breathing heavily, and rests his head on the ground, his tongue hanging out just slightly.

[Graehamkracker]

"Apparently there's a road to the east. We should probably look for that tomorrow morning." Bendron awkwardly pets the horse


Rolled an 16+2 = 18

[Dragodar]

Gideon lets out an almost imperceptible whimper. He appears amenable to Bendron's touch but there seems to be something wrong.

You recall that this horse has not eaten anything more than a few mouthfuls of grass since you first laid eyes on it almost two days ago.

[Nightwing32193]

Chadwick takes some trail rations out of his pack and gives them to his horse.

[Graehamkracker]

"What does one feed a horse?"

[Nightwing32193]

”Normally hay or grass, an apple here or there. But we must make do with what I’ve got here.”

[Dragodar]

Gideon happily munches on the beef jerky, whole grain crackers, and assorted nuts.

[Nightwing32193]

Chad strokes his horse’s mane thoughtfully, ”We need fresh supplies and I for one could use a rest in a real bed. The sooner we get to the next town, the better. Let’s rest up tonight and make the trek around these mountains and far away from these fûcking elves.”

[Graehamkracker]

"I'd imagine that towns would be along the road? That's probably our best bet"

[Nightwing32193]

”I’m sure there are some smaller villages along this main road we could rest and resupply at. By the way, I’m a homosexual. Just thought I’d put that out there.”

[Graehamkracker]

"I knew both of those things. But now is still time to rest."

[Dragodar]

Bendron and Chadwick rest for the night, determined to make better use of the next day. After arising early and setting off, they cover almost 30 miles by nightfall on Monday.

As the sun is starting to drop on Monday, they come upon the road through the mountains. Following it into the foothills, they find it leads through a small town about a half mile across. The buildings are all simple one or two story wooden structures, likely built with timber from the many pine trees in these foothills, and the town is surrounded by a simple wooden wall, about eight feet tall, formed from sharpened boughs. The town itself appears busy with hustle and bustle, even in the late evening. It seems to serve as a sort of last stop for those about to head into the mountains and a restful haven for those just coming out.

Chadwick and Bendron find themselves approaching the town as the sun is dropping below the horizon. They arrive at the gate as it is closing for the night, but the guards are friendly and let them in.

[Graehamkracker]

The pair enter town and begin the search for lodging - along the way Bendron keeps an eye out for a forge, and pays special attention to the few dwarves he sees

[Dragodar]

Bendron finds a smith's forge, but it is small and mainly used for repairs rather than the crafting of new armor. From what he can tell, the few dwarves in the town are Thandi, quite far from their home in the Nordin Mountains.

Soon, the pair find an inn with cheap lodging and, after Chadwick stables Gideon, they bed down and sleep for the night. The following day, they embark on the mountain road. During their three day journey, they come across two small villages along the road, nestled deep within the Sudrin Mountains, seemingly with the same purpose as Mountaintown, to act as a respite for those making the journey through the mountains.

They are able to obtain food and shelter on both Tuesday and Wednesday night, and by the time it is beginning to get dark on Thursday night, they can see Urdale in the distance.

=============

The city sits atop a high mesa amidst the foothills of the Sudrin Mountains, affording it a commanding view of the lowlands beyond. Urdale's construction clearly emphasizes function over form. The buildings consist mostly of stone, and the few wooden structures are far away from important edifices or tactically significant routes. The roofs of major buildings (and even most homes) are built flat to serve as archery platforms or even, in the case of larger structures, bases for heavy projectile weapons. Most such roofs are crenellated to some degree, providing some cover to citizen-soldiers firing on invaders. Most of the buildings have narrow windows and heavy doors built to withstand battering.

It is exceedingly clear that, before the current peace time, Urdale was originally designed as a military city. Chadwick and Bendron approach the city from the south road as the sun is setting.

https://i.ibb.co/cx8K5Qy/urdalemap.png
https://i.ibb.co/2jsssfQ/urdalekey.png
It is about 8:00 PM on Thursday, Iru 18th.

[Graehamkracker]

"Finally! Let's go find an in to get some food and rest - I want to ask around for a decent healer and a serviceable forge to make some repairs."

[Dragodar]

Bendron and Chadwick enter Urdale as it is growing dark. Asking around, they soon find a town guard who is able to point them in the direction of the Inn District, which is on the west side of town. Exhausted from their journey and eager for comfortable beds, they make their way there and choose an in with little deliberation. A brief conversation with the innkeeper, a clink of coins, and a stomp up the stairs later, they are snuggled warmly into their beds at The Dancing Otter Inn and enjoying the first good night's sleep they've had in days.

=============

The next day, they arise well rested and begin to go about their business. Wandering around town, they very quickly pick up on the talk of the town. A new disease is going around the Western Marches and a cure has not yet been found. Orcs are mobilizing in the south, sacking more and more elvish cities with every passing week. The governor of Urdale has put out an advertisement for mercenaries and monster hunters, to deal with the suspected cause of the recent upswing of livestock death. The local undefeated pit fighting champion is scheduled to fight his toughest challenger yet, but the match has been delayed until a place can be found where the town guard won't break up the fight. The Guildmaster of the Carpenters Masons and Builders Guild (a respected member of Urdale society) recently received a ransom note demanding 500 guildings for his son, who has been missing for almost a week now.

=============

Bendron makes his way around town, looking for a smith's forge, while Chadwick sits himself on the nearest barstool and begins drinking until he can't see.

From what you can gather, there are several forges in the city. One of them is at the headquarters of the Smiths and Armorers Guild, one is a private armory in the warehouse district, and one is a small blacksmith business between the civic district and the fine shops that typically only does minor repairs, touch ups, and cosmetic embellishments.
You find yourself in The Busty Rusty Pub, putting away one beer after another. The beer is sour but strong, and you barely taste it anyway. Your thoughts are many miles away, as in your mind you watch and rewatch Gideon falling to his knees and bleeding out. At one point the bartender shakes you and you realize that you had fallen asleep on the bar, but you order another and continue to drink yourself into a stupor.

At some point around your fifth or tenth pee break, you find yourself standing outside behind the pub, aiming for a broken piece of pottery but hitting everything else. As you give yourself two shakes and begin to put it away, an older looking gentleman walks by a couple buildings down. Seeing you, he does a double take and stops, turning to approach you. He raises his hand in a friendly wave. "Friendo, you look like shít. Do you need some help?"
It is about 10:00 AM on Friday, Iru 19th.

[Graehamkracker]

Bendron likes the idea of the private armourer, and heads there to ask for forge time, willing to work odd hours and complete some of the shop jobs in return.

[Dragodar]

Bendron makes his way through the crowded streets of Urdale, pausing when necessary to ask for directions, and taking in the sights, sounds, and smells of the city. He soon finds himself in the warehouse district, surrounded by massive buildings on every side. Squeezed between the large warehouses are smaller businesses and enterprises, but this district is decidedly less busy than the rest of city.

Bendron soon finds Falvorn and Gwynnym, a small and unassuming armory run by a human and a dwarf, named Falvorn and Gwynnym, respectively. Falvorn is tall and well muscled, about six foot four and two hundred and sixty pounds, with heavily tattooed forearms, a gleaming bald head, and patchy black facial hair. Gwynnym is barely an inch short of five feet tall and at least two hundred pounds, also heavily muscled and sporting a waist length red beard that is braided extremely tightly. Neither of them is wearing a shirt and they are both sweating profusely from the physical exertion of their job.

Gwynnym is hammering a piece of red hot metal on an anvil near the back of the shop when Bendron approaches, but Falvorn greets him with a wave. The large man is panting heavily, having just been hard at work. He wipes his hands on his apron as he walks toward Bendron.

"Hi there. Lookin' for anythin' in particular?" he asks in a heavy Hynnican accent.

[Graehamkracker]

"Yes, for somewhere I might work on a few things. I have some repairs and replacements I ought to make." he gestures at his motley gear as he explains.

[Dragodar]

"There isn't a whole lot of time that our forge isn't in use," Falvorn responds, wiping the sweat off his brow with the back of his hand. "We work full time. If you're willing to use it at night, you're welcome to, for a fee. But you'd have to use your own tools, unless you want to put down a deposit to borrow ours."

[RealZachKraus]

Chadwick closes one I to focus on the old man. He waves dismissively at him, upsetting his balance and causing him to stumble further towards him. "mmmfnnne," he mumbles.

[Graehamkracker]

Bendron laughs a bit. "I do my best work in the dark! And I have the tools. What I don't have is much coin, but I could do some cleaning or of your work instead?"

[Dragodar]

The man steps forward and catches you before you can hit the ground. "Woah there, buddy. Time to sit down."

As Chadwick's vision blurs and his memory fades, he feels the man duck under his arm and lead him away.

It is just after noon on Friday, Iru 19th.
=============

When Chadwick's memory fades back in, he finds himself lying on an absurdly soft cushion. The blurry sight of silk curtains. Soft feminine laughter in the distance. An intoxicatingly warm smell of perfume or scented oils. His memory fades again and he passes out.

=============

After what could have been a few minutes or several hours, Chadwick wakes up again. He still feels extremely drunk, but is slightly more aware of his surroundings. He is lying on a large cushion in a room full of similar cushions. In the middle of the room is a table covered in decadent food and jugs of wine. On several of the other cushions, scantily clad or almost naked women are making out heavily with men in various states of undress.

Everything about the environment is geared toward physical comfort. The soft lighting, the warm smells, even the temperature of the air is exceedingly comfortable. Despite having never spent coin at one, Chadwick immediately realizes that he is in a brothel, but feels entirely unable to stand up on his own.
"Sounds reasonable enough. Give me a minute to talk it over with Gwynnym though."

The man nods at Bendron and then turns toward the back of the shop. "Gwyn!" he shouts loudly, causing the dwarf to pause his hammering. "Fella here here says he wants to use our forge. He's got his own tools and he's willin' to work at night. Wants to pay us with labor instead of coin, though. What do you think? Any jobs you need help with?"

The dwarf ambles up to the front, also short of breath, and wipes his brow. He reaches out a hand to Bendron. "I'm Gwynnym. You?"

Falvorn steps forward. "Ach, me manners. I'm Falvorn." He offers his hand as well.

It is just after noon on Friday, Iru 19th.
Individually notated by character.

[Graehamkracker]

Bendron shakes the hands - not very well, since it's still pretty new. "Bendron. I've made most of what I have with me - except for this garbage." he adds, pointing to the spear. "It all used to look a lot neater though. Should be enough too see if I can do the work."

[RealZachKraus]

Looks around getting his bearings. He doesn't see the man from the other night, whom he guesses must have brought him there. He sees one door and attempts to get up and head for it.

[Dragodar]

Falvorn and Gwynnym eye Bendron up and down. After a moment or two, they are apparently impressed with his handiwork and exchange a nod with each other.

"You can work here," Gwynnym says. "I'll need you to put in some hours during the day on the weekends, but you can use weeknights for your own work. If Fal has anything he needs you to do, we'll work that into your schedule as well. What would you say to two full ten hour work days on the weekends in exchange for five full weeknights to use the forge as you see fit?" Gwynnym asks.

Falvorn adds, "If we were to charge you four scepters per day to use our forge, and pay you one guilding per day for your work, then that comes out even. Fair?"
As you stand and attempt to walk, you realize that you are still drunk and collapse to the floor. There is a quick pattering of feet and a womans' arms skillfully help you up and bring you back to the cushion.

"There now," she says with a timid giggle. "You've had a bit too much to drink to be going anywhere. Have a seat here, my lord. I'll keep you company."

She helps Chadwick back onto the cushion and sits down beside him, one arm draped across his shoulders and the other hand on his chest. At this point, Chadwick realizes that, though he is still fully clothed, thank Hyroneus, he certainly is not wearing his armor.

[Graehamkracker]

"More than. It'll be nice to work again."

[RealZachKraus]

Chadwick shudders the girls arms from around his shoulders. Blinking he asks "Where is this place?"

[Dragodar]

"It's settled then," Falvorn says.

"We won't be here at night," Gwynnym adds. "You'll have to work the bellows and maintain the forge by yourself. You're sure that won't be too much trouble?"
The woman removes her arm. She is not pushy or assertive, but simply kind and demure. "It's The Velvet Glove, my lord. Benji brought you here. He said you were drunk in the street and needed to rest."

She sits back, waiting for Chadwick's response. Her chestnut brown hair is loosely braided and shines as though slightly oiled. She looks at Chadwick with impossibly large brown eyes, and her soft feminine features are accentuated by professional-quality makeup, though it is not overdone. She wears a thin, pale yellow night dress, and overall her simple look is stunningly beautiful.

If this is a brothel, it is certainly a fancy one. The girls here do not appear dirty or even promiscuous, but elegant and refined. Chadwick almost marvels at how such a place can appear so classy and dignified when its entire purpose is so thoroughly the opposite. Even the girl's mannerisms are kind and seemingly genuine, not lewd or bawdy.

"My name is Mireen, my lord. What is yours?" she asks sweetly.

[Graehamkracker]

Bendron takes a minute to walk around the forge. "It could use a few improvements, but I can make it work"

[RealZachKraus]

Chadwick coughs a bit, his mouth absurdly dry. Remembering his manners, and mustering what grace he can, he vocalized, "You'll pardon the rudeness, ma'am. It's been awhile since I've woken up in a place this... upscale." Feeling someone vindicated he pats himself along his body. "I believe I came here with some... items? Where is this Benji fellow"

[Dragodar]

Falvorn lets out a bark of laughter.

"Improvements, huh?" Gwynnym asks sternly, raising one eyebrow in spectacular fashion.

"Speaks 'is mind, dun 'e?" Falvorn says, chuckling.
"Ah yes, your armor. Don't fret, it's all here. It's downstairs, in the coat room," she says reassuringly.

Hearing Chadwick's cough, she nimbly leaps up from the cushion and crosses the room in two light bounds, her feet barely seeming to touch the floor. She pours a large cup full of water and brings it back to Chadwick. She hands it to him with a caring smile. "Drink, my lord. You seem quite thirsty." She raises the cup to his lips, and gently places her hand on the back of his head.

"Benji is likely out and about in the city. He's sort of one of our "promoters" if you will. He brings us business," Mireen responds. "But you still haven't told me your name?"

[Graehamkracker]

"Apologies. Not intended as an insult, just not what I'm used to."

[RealZachKraus]

Chadwick tries his best to hide his otherwise obvious look of relief. He greatfully accepts the water. Regaining some of his smoothness, smooths his hair back a little bit and says, "Well you ladies have been incredibly kind to me. I wish there were something I could do to repay that kindness."

[Dragodar]

Gwynnym scoffs a bit but doesn't seem too upset. Falvorn is still chuckling to himself.

"None taken," Falvorn says good naturedly.
"You can start tonight if you like," Gwynnym adds.
Mireen glances down demurely. "Well my lord," she says slowly. "I suppose there is one thing..."

[Graehamkracker]

"That would be perfect, thank you. Some interruptions may come up as I settle into town, but I will keep our deal square." Bendron awkwardly tried to initiate another round of handshakes, then departs to find out more about the missing boy and the hiring of adventures, and eventually to find Chad back at the inn.

[RealZachKraus]

Chadwick laughs nervously, "Um don't take this the wrong way but.. well.. I wouldn't say I'm a.. patron." He scratches his arm and blurts out, "Not that I'm not interested!"

[Dragodar]

Stepping back out into the brisk winter air, Bendron heads into the heart of the city to see what he find out.

From what he can gather from the rumors, the missing boy is the son of Goodwin Cutter, the Guildmaster of the Carpenters Masons and Builders Guild. The boy went missing about a week ago, leaving his parents severely distressed. The ransom note, which arrived only two days ago, upset the parents even more, especially the boy's mother, and has been the talk of the town ever since.

Everyone is interested to see how the sordid situation plays out.
Mireen looks disappointed for a moment, then smiles at Chadwick's additonal words. "You mean you've never been to a brothel before?" she asks with an amused laugh that sounds almost like the tittering of a songbird.
It is about 3:00 PM on Friday, Iru 19th.

[Graehamkracker]

Bendron goes to the guild to investigate, and see if they might hire help instead of ransoming.

[RealZachKraus]

"It was never my scene."

[Dragodar]

Bendron makes his way to the Guildhall District, where he is greeted by wide streets, large buildings, and brightly colored pendants and flags. Every building in the area seems associated with some guild or another, of which there is a countless number. After much asking around and redirection, Bendron finally finds himself on the steps of the Carpenters Masons and Builders Guildhall. Brilliant golden trim on a deep brown background forms the basis of the large banners that hang over the doorway, and the symbol upon them is that of a hammer, a saw, and a chisel all crossed over one another.

Making his way inside, he finds himself in a small front room with a desk in the middle. Behind the desk sits an aged man wearing spectacles and writing in a ledger.
"Well I suppose a man like you isn't exactly the type who needs to seek out an establishment like this," Mireen says, subtly placing her hand on Chadwick's bicep and gazing at his chest for a moment.

"But there's a first time for everything I suppose," she says with a smile. "I'd be happy to be your introduction. Five scepters get you an hour, and one guilding gets you the whole night. We don't have to do anything you're uncomfortable with. It could even just be sitting and talking. All you're paying for is my time."

Mireen speaks very plainly and openly. She is extremely friendly, and has kind eyes, and seems perfectly comfortable with Chadwick. He almost finds himself forgetting from moment to moment that she is a prostitute.

As she explains the brothel to him, she stands from the cushion and casually walks to the table in the middle of the room. She pours herself a glass of wine and sips on it.

"And don't worry," she says with a laugh, seeing Chadwick's glance around the room. "We don't have to stay out here with these silly fools. There are private rooms for those of us with some sense of dignity." Her eyes twinkle as she sips her wine and stares at Chadwick flirtatiously.

[Graehamkracker]

Bendron strolls up to the desk. "I'm here for a Goodwin Cutter about a ransom?" After a moment, Bendron tries to clarify "Helping with a kidnapping, I mean."

[Dragodar]

The man starts at Bendron's introduction and his glasses almost fall off his face. "I beg your pardon?!" he says, staring at the dwarf with wide eyes and readjusting his glasses. Bendron gets the impression that the man actually did not hear him correctly, rather than that he is reacting with incredulity.

[RealZachKraus]

Chadwick sighs, "It's not just that. I've been through a lot in the last year. I am very far from home. I don't think I'll be comfortable here."

[Graehamkracker]

Bendron repeats himself. "I'm looking for a Goodwin Cutter, to talk to him about a kidnapping." he pauses briefly. "I'm hoping I can help with the whole thing."

[Dragodar]

"Ah. Yes. Well, um..." the man uncomfortably adjusts some papers on his desk as he tries to process what Bendron is saying.

"So... you're saying you have information about the kidnapping?" he asks, flustered, looking up at Bendron through his glasses.
A disappointed but understanding look crosses Mireen's face. "I suppose I won't try to convince you. I don't like my clients to leave disappointed, even if that means disappointed in themselves." She pauses for a moment, biting her lip.

"But I must say, I was looking forward to you. You seem different from the others. I hope you find what you're looking for, my lord. But you still haven't told me your name?"

[Graehamkracker]

"No..." Bendron's face shows a scowl of frustration. "I'm wondering if they're looking to pay for any help in catching the kidnappers and freeing the boy."

[Dragodar]

"Ah, I see," the man responds, still a bit flustered. "Well, just... give me a moment, will you please?" He stands up and once again straightens the papers on his desk before turning to his left and walking through a doorway, leaving Bendron waiting in the foyer.

[RealZachKraus]

Chadwick pauses for a moment, embarrassed, "Yes, what's wrong with me. I am Chadwick Bronzecut. I'm from Hemburg, up north. I used to be a soldier in the royal army."

[Dragodar]

The man returns shortly with two large men dressed in simple clothing. "These men are Rickas and Telvin. They will take you to Goodwin. And I don't believe I caught your name, sir?"

The two men stand by, waiting for Bendron.
"What do you mean, you were a soldier?" Mireen asks curiously. Her bluntness is refreshing to Chadwick, as people often tiptoed around this subject.

Before he can answer, there is a rather shrill call from downstairs. "Mireeeen! Client!"

Looking back at Chadwick, she says, "Look, I need to be making money or I'll get in trouble. If you can't pay, I understand, but I need to go do my job or I'll lose my livelihood." Chadwick can hear the regret in her voice.

She hesitates for a moment before leaving, then stands on her tip toes and kisses him, her warm, soft lips pressing firmly against his, the scent of her perfume in his nostrils. She holds the kiss for a moment, then pulls away.

"I am sorry Chadwick, truly. Another time perhaps." Mireen turns and flits away, out the door and down the stairs.

[Graehamkracker]

"Bendron. Just got into town and trying to figure out what's going on." Bendron follows the two guards.

[RealZachKraus]

Chadwick stares longingly after her. Feeling a deep sense of remorse or maybe I'm just still drunk he reaches into his pocket and grabs 2 gold coins and runs after her, hoping downstairs is just a lobby of sorts.

[Dragodar]

The two men lead Bendron through a series of hallways and corridors. The building is quite large and made of stone, and it feels spacious and luxurious. After makign their way into a large central room with a massive round table and up the wide staircase behind it, the eventually arrive at a grand office. One of the men knocks, and after a moment a voice from inside softly calls, "Come in."

Telvin opens the door and gestures politely with his hand, allowing Bendron to enter first.

"This fellow's name is Bendin. He has information about your son," says Rickas.

The man at the desk is tall and burly, with a reddish brown beard and kind eyes. He appears to be in his forties or fifties. At the words of Rickas the man stands suddenly, a look of hope and shock on his face.

"Surely not?" he cries out with a desperate smile of relief. Composing himself, he adds, "Thank you, Rickas, Telvin. Please wait outside."
Chadwick bounds after Mireen, the coins clutched tightly in his fist.

Skipping down the stairs two at a time, he catches up to her before she reaches the front foyer. He finds himself in a living room of sorts, replete with plush sofas and a roaring fireplace. There are several other harlots in the room, laying on the sofas and kissing or petting their clients. Grasping her by the wrist, Chadwick catches Mireen before she can open the door to the foyer.

She turns around, and her look of surprise quickly melts into another of her warm smiles. "Changed our mind, have we?" she asks, that now-familiar twinkle in her eye.

[Graehamkracker]

Bendron looks a little stunned. "I.... I'm afraid there has been some sort of misunderstanding. I'm here to try to help, but I was hoping to get information from you."

[RealZachKraus]

"I just wanted to thank you for the kind words, and the hospitality. It has been awhile since I've... I will be in town for awhile..." Chadwick trails off awkwardly.

[Dragodar]

Goodwin looks crestfallen but tries not to show it. "Ah," he says, "I see. Well, I appreciate your offer but I really don't know how much there is you can do for me. I suppose the news is all over town at this point?" he asks, looking somewhat ashamed.
Mireen smiles and looks down at Chadwick's hands. She picks up one of the guildings, leaving the other in his hand. "I'll take this one," she whispers. "Save that other one for tomrrow night."

She gently takes him by the hand and starts to lead him down the hallway, but he stops her. "Keep the money Mireen. Maybe I'll see you around."

She looks extremely crestfallen but nods silently. As she leads him to the front door, she greets the man waiting in the foyer. He appears skeevy and gross, but she takes him wordlessly by the hand and leads him into the living room, completely stony faced. As the foyer door swings shut, Chadwick catches one last glance of her big brown eyes gazing wistfully at him.

The door closes, and Chadwick is alone in the foyer. To either side, there are doors to coat rooms, wherein one of which Chadwick finds his armor.
It is about 4:00 PM on Friday, Iru 19th.

[Graehamkracker]

"It is - my friend and I just arrived in town yesterday and have already heard of it. Doing some good would likely serve us well, so I figured I'd see if there were some we could do here. We're more skilled at fighting than diplomacy, but that may yet be of use."

[Dragodar]

Goodwin strides to the window behind his desk and stares out of it. "I would be eternally grateful if you could bring my son back. Though I don't even know if he is still alive. He turns around and sits down at his desk.

"Please," he says, gesturing at the chair across from him. "Have a seat."
Chadwick retrieves his armor from the coat room off of the foyer, and stumbles out into the afternoon sun. The chilly winter air nips at his nose, and he can see his breath as he stands in the road.

Looking around, he realizes that he must be in the red light district. Prostitutes, lowlifes, and drug dealers are the only people he sees on the street. As he stands there trying to get his bearings, a hunched over man missing several teeth shuffles up to him. "Wanna buy some marching powder?" he asks, in a high pitched, drug addled voice. "Purest stuff you'll find north of the mountains. I'll let you try a bump first if you want."

[Graehamkracker]

"Of course." Bendron grabs a seat and tries to fit comfortably into it. "How long has he been gone? And are there any leads?"

[RealZachKraus]

"Pure my ass, you wouldn't know a man's matching powder if if it slapped you upside the head. Looks like life already did though." Chadwick pauses, sighs, then tosses him a gold piece. "I'm sorry I've had a frustrating morning. Here. You want to go home and rethink your life."

[Dragodar]

Goodwin sighs deeply, as if to compose himself. Then he begins. "Melton went missing about a week ago. We didn't realize for the first day or two; we just assumed he spent the night out with his friends; he's at that age, you know. We had actually just reprimanded him for that kind of behavior a couple days before he went missing, so at first we were ready to whip him when he got back. You can imagine how quickly that anger turned into sick worry."

Goodwin sighs again and rubs his eyes. The stress and worry have taken a toll on the man, and he appears older than he is.
The man snatches the guilding out of the air and slips it into his pocket. "I rethink my life every day, soldier." he says with a cackle. He tosses Chadwick a cloth pouch and then scurries off around a corner.

[RealZachKraus]

Despite himself, Chadwick chuckles at the man's antics. Then he checks the contents of the pouch before stashing it and walking back to the inn.

[Dragodar]

"We sent out search parties, everywhere. Throughout the hills, into the woods, along the river... nothing. We must have covered fifty square miles. We don't have any leads. The note arrived on our home's door, not three days ago. Have a look."

Goodwin lifts a piece of paper off his desk and hands it to Bendron. The paper is good quality, and the ink is dark and clear.


=============
LEAVE 500 GUILDINGS IN THE WATCHMAN ONE WEEK FROM NOW
OR YOU WILL NEVER SEE YOUR SON AGAIN.
IF YOU TRY TO SET A TRAP, HE DIES.
=============

"The Watchman is a large windmill on a tall hill about five miles north of Urdale. It's surrounded by flatlands for over a mile, so it provides a clear view of anyone approaching from any direction. There's no way we could try anything without them seeing us from a long way off. We don't know what to do."
Opening the pouch, Chadwick is immediately greeted with the familiar pungent smell of marching powder. Perhaps he hadn't given the man enough credit after all.

Looking inside, Chadwick sees a ball of pure white powder about the size of a walnut, firmly condensed into a rock. Squeezing it through the bag, he feels it break off in thin sheets, like shale. Holding it up to the light, he can see that it sparkles. It appears to be of high quality, but there is only one way to know for sure.

Chadwick pockets the pouch and attempt to find his way back to the inn, but the streets are winding and confusing, and he needs to ask for directions several times before finally making it back to The Busty Rusty Pub. When he enters, the bartender looks up and chuckles.

"Back already, huh? You look like you had a good time," he says, staring at the drunken paladin who is holding all of his armor haphazardly.
It is about 5:00 PM on Friday, Iru 19th.

[Graehamkracker]

"Hmmm... any enemies who might have done this?"

[Dragodar]

Goodwin runs both hands through his hair.

"I've been wracking my brain for the last few days wondering just that. I honestly can't think of anyone who would want to do this to hurt me. Aside from a few business rivals and a couple members of the Guild who are less than pleased with decisions I've made, I don't have any actual enemies. There is no dispute I've had in the last quarter century for which something like this would be an even remotely proportionate response. It must be for the money alone; I can think of nothing else."

The man slumps back in his chair, staring distantly at the ground between his feet.

[Graehamkracker]

"Not all folk are proportionate or proportional, but I'll see if my friend and I can figure anything out. We know where to find you." with that, Bendron excuses himself and returns to try and find Chad.

[Dragodar]

As Bendron stands to leave, Goodwin speaks up.

"Thank you, Bendin. Anything you can do to help will no go unrewarded."

Bendron leaves the guildhall and makes his way back to the inn district. He finds Chadwick exactly where he had left him, at the Busty Rusty Pub, a tavern directly across the street from The Dancing Otter Inn where they had spent the night. The only difference is that Chadwick is no longer wearing his armor and it is sitting in a heap beside him while he drinks.
Chadwick sits himself down at the bar once more and begins to order drinks and drops his armor on the floor beside him. While he's still on his first beer, the door opens and Bendron enters.
Bendron opens the door of The Rusty Busty to find Chadwick slurping on another beer, his armor lying on the ground beside him.

[Graehamkracker]

Bendron eyes Chad's disheveled state curiously. "Looks like you've been busy. I got us a job - we're helping with a kidnapping"

[RealZachKraus]

Chadwick looks back and forth between the beer and Bendron. "Just having a lil breakfast. He quaffs it and belches loudly. "But uh, pass." He wipes his mouth with his sleeve.

[Graehamkracker]

"Still breakfast? That'll make for a short day. But no matter, I'll do some work on it and let you know when we should move on that kidnapping. I probably should get back to the room and prep it a bit for tonight's work."

[Dragodar]

The bartender stares back and forth from Bendron to Chadwick, his mouth hanging slightly agape and his brow slightly furrowed. He clears his throat. "Uh, kidnappin's against the law 'round here..." he says, trying to be helpful.

[Graehamkracker]

Bendron turns to the barkeep, unbothered. "Of course it is. Doesn't mean that will stop everyone if the payout is high enough." he continues, talking more to himself "Though 500 gold seems a bit low in my mind... Perhaps there's more to come."

[RealZachKraus]

"Can't we just rescue some damsels instead?

[Dragodar]

The bartender stares at Bendron, mouth still hanging open. At the words "500 gold" a slight look of realization seems to dawn on his face, followed by fear, followed by an attempt to stop displayinig everything he's feeling through his facial expressions. He looks down at the mug he's polishing and concentrates intently on it while scrubbing furiously.

At Chadwick's question the bartender glances up quickly and then back at the mug while nodding rapidly to himself, as though agreeing with the paladin.

[Graehamkracker]

"Pretty sure he said it was his son, but we might get to that too. I'm sure we could build up a bit of a reputation with this job that we could use to open some other doors"

[Dragodar]

Every time Bendron speaks, the bartender's brow furrows more deeply as he concentrates harder on the mug.

[RealZachKraus]

Chadwick rolls his eyes and laughs, "Let's go back to the inn real quick my guy. I have to drop off my gear. We'll come back to tie one on and you can tell me all the funny stories you heard around town today." He pats Bendron on the back.

[Graehamkracker]

"Aye, I can do that. But not too much - I need to work tonight, and was hoping to do some snooping around to find who we might try to stop."

[Dragodar]

At Bendron's words, the bartender chokes and starts coughing as he attempts to catch his breath. He appears extremely interested in a stubborn stain on the inside of the mug.

The pair cross the street to The Dancing Otter, where Chad deposits his armor and gear. They are about to leave The Dancing Otter to return to The Busty Rusty.

[RealZachKraus]

Chadwick stops Bendron from leaving, "Listen chief you can't be talkin about kidnapping people in public. What the hell kinda job you got for us anyway?" Chad hiccups.

[Graehamkracker]

"No, we're helping with the kidnapping. Someone kidnapped the guildmasters son and wanted a 500 gold ransom - I think we can help retrieve the boy."

[RealZachKraus]

Chadwick's ears perk up. "So it's a rescue mission?"

[Graehamkracker]

"Exactly. I just finished talking to the guildmaster - Goodwin - about it. We'd be doing some good, and won't go unrewarded."

[RealZachKraus]

"Ok I'm in for sure. I don't think we can go back to that bar though. You already brought a lot of attention to ourselves. No sense in sharing the reward money with dead weight."

[Graehamkracker]

"We need to at least pay your bill - you've been doing nothing but drink that poor man's beer all day. I wouldn't want them thinking us criminal."

[RealZachKraus]

"Paid this morning. I've been... out and about for a good chunk of the day."

[Graehamkracker]

"Alright then, let's start investigating. Should we head to the home, or somewhere else? The kidnappers are requiring a ransom to be paid at a location out of town in 4 days, so we don't have too long." having said his piece, Bendron heads back out to the street

[RealZachKraus]

Chadwick opens the door and says sternly to Bendron, "Wait here while I suit up, who knows what we're gonna run into."

[Dragodar]

For the next five minutes, Chadwick straps on his armor. Once he is satisfied with it, they step outside.

They are greeted by half a dozen town guards with their weapons drawn. Standing behind them is the bartender from The Busty Rusty Pub. As soon as Bendron and Chadwick step into the street, the bartender points at them and says something to the one who looks like the sergeant. The man makes a signal to his men and they stride forward, forming a semicircle around the pair. The sergeant steps forward and addresses them in a loud, clear voice.

"In the name of the governor and by the power of the the city of Urdale, you are under arrest for questioning about the disappearance of Melton Cutter."

[RealZachKraus]

Chadwick steps forward, "'scuse me gentlemen. I dunno a thing about a Melon Cutter and neither does my friend. This is our first day here, he has been browsing your local smithies, whereas I have spent most of my time in there." He points to the bar.

[Dragodar]

The sergeant eyes Chadwick up and down.

"This man," he says, gesturing at the bartender behind him, "is the proprietor of that establishment," -- pointing at The Busty Rusty Pub -- "and he has reported that he personally overheard the two of you," -- pointing at Bendron and Chadwick -- "discussing participation in a kidnapping and a ransom of five hundred guildings, which just so happens to be the ransom demanded for Melton Cutter."

The sergeant places his hands on his hips.

[RealZachKraus]

Chadwicks eyes widen. "500 guildings?" He lets out a long low whistle. "He must be an important man. But I promise you, were are simple adventures, and we recently lost a dear member a party. A man I fought the orcs with for many years when I was with the royal Army. We have only recently come to your beautiful town to rest and patronize your various shops and restaurants." He points to Bendron. "My friend was just relating to me some of the gossip he heard around town. He said something about a new deadly disease and an increase in orc movement down in elvish country too, but rumors are rumors." Chad shrugs.

[Dragodar]

Chadwick Persuasion Check: (1d20+7)[15]
The sergeant appears somewhat convinced and hesitates for a moment, turning back to the bartender with an unsure look on his face.

The bartender is quick to chime in. "They said they were helping with a kidnapping! I specifically heard them talking about taking part!"

The sergeant turns back to Chadwick and Bendron, raising an eyebrow and tapping his foot as though waiting for an explanation.

[Graehamkracker]

"Is that not how you say it? Helping with a kidnapping? We're not committing a kidnapping, someone else did that and we're trying to help by figuring out who it is, and stopping them. Helping with a kidnapping. How are you supposed to say it?

[RealZachKraus]

Chad shrugs again. "Language barrier. I suppose we can go somewhere that's a little more tolerant of other cultures."

[Dragodar]

The sergeant gets an exasperated look on his face and turns to the bartender.

"Helping SOLVE the kidnapping, Barney!" he shouts frustratedly.

Turning back, he addresses the companions. "My apologies. This matter has been high priority for us so we take every report seriously. This has clearly been a misunderstanding. Please enjoy your time in Urdale."

The sergeant motions to his men and they sheath their weapons, falling into formation. He looks at the bartender, shaking his head, and mutters something under his breath to the effect of "Paranoid maniac" and then leads his men away down the street.

The bartender gives the pair a hesitant half-smile and shrugs slightly. "Uh. Can't be too careful?"

[RealZachKraus]

Chadwick stares menacingly at the barkeep for a half a minute, then breaks into foot-wide smile, "Thanks for the drinks, super chief. Bendron, let's go."

[Dragodar]

"Free round on the house?!" he yells after them. Then in a quieter tone, "For the inconvenience?"

[Graehamkracker]

"Can't say no to that! We'll be back!" Bendron calls out over his shoulder as the pair head to investigate the guildmasters home

[RealZachKraus]

Chadwick continues walking until he stubs his toe on something hard. He looks down and it's a bag containing 500 gold pieces. "Wow, how lucky are we!! I have also have a satchel of marching powder, wanna just go back to the bar and get ripped?"

[Dragodar]

Bendron watches in somber silence as the alcohol poisoning begins to wreak its permanent damage on Chadwick's brain. The paladin stubs his toe on a rock and begins manically insisting that it is a bag of gold. Bendron notices a slight white foam at the corners of his friend's mouth.

[Dragodar]

Suddenly, one of two things happens. Either Chadwick is miraculously cured and stops behaving like a disabled person, or Bendron takes him back to the inn, has him look out the window at the sunset, and puts him down Of Mice and Men style.

[Dragodar]

Investigation Check: (1d20-1)[11]
After several hours of asking around, Bendron and Chadwick find their way to what they believe to be the house of Guildmaster Cutter. At this point, Chadwick is still unsure of the details, but dutifully follows his friend.

They find themselves in the wealthy residential neighborhood, in the northeast quadrant of the city. The houses here are large and spacious, with a luxurious amount of green grass between them. Unlike the cramped feel of the inner city, this area feels relaxed, almost suburban. The buildings are almost all two story houses here, with the odd three story here and there. Bendron and Chadwick notice a significant increase in the guard patrols on the streets here, almost certainly due to the lobbying of the wealthy residents.

The sun is low in the sky and will likely set in the next hour or two. Bendron and Chadwick get a few sideways glances from the guards who pass them, but nothing amiss occurs.

https://i.ibb.co/cx8K5Qy/urdalemap.png
https://i.ibb.co/2jsssfQ/urdalekey.png
It is almost 7:00 PM on Friday, Iru 19th.

[Graehamkracker]

Along the way, Bendron fills Chad in on the details: "So the son, Melton, has been missing about a week. Only noticed a few days later - apparently he's 'of that age' when children vanish that I didn't know was a thing you humans did. Three days ago there was a ransom note left on their door that demanded 500 gold pieces be left out at the watchman - some windmill out of town - four days from now. Warnings about following directions and not setting traps or else the boy will stay invisible. The father doesn't think he has any real enemies, maybe some rivals in business or the guild. He also couldn't pronounce my name."

[RealZachKraus]

"Yes, sometime children tend to run off, it's part of growing up. This seems very serious though. We should probably check out the windmill... if that's where they're hiding him. Also we don't even know who they are.."

[Dragodar]

Chadwick and Bendron open the large wrought iron gate and stride up the gravel path to the large front door of the house. A pair of guards on the street stop their patrol and watch them, but do not interfere.

Chadwick steps forward and knocks loudly and clearly on the heavy wooden doors, using one of the ornate brass doorknockers near the center of it. Several moments pass, and then a small panel, about eight by eight inches and five feet off the ground, opens in the middle of one of the doors. A old man with gray hair, many wrinkles, and a stuffy look about him peers out.

"May I help you?" he asks with practiced politeness.

[RealZachKraus]

"Evening sir! Chadwick smiles warmly, "Is this the estate of Goodwin Cutter?"

[Dragodar]

"It is indeed, sir. May I ask if you have an appointment with Master Cutter? I only ask because it is an unusual hour for business calls, and Master Cutter has only just finished having supper with his wife."

[Graehamkracker]

"I saw him earlier today - if you let him know that a 'Bendin' is here I'm sure he'll be amenable."

[Dragodar]

"Certainly. If you'll excuse me for but a moment..." he responds, before closing the panel. Two or three minutes pass while the guards waiting on the street light up their pipes and smoke. Soon enough, the door opens and the old man steps out.

"I'm very sorry, but Master Cutter is otherwise occupied at the moment. He sends his sincere apologies and requests that you please make an appointment to see him at a more convenient hour, as he is eager to meet with you. Is there a time tomorrow that suits you?" he asks, producing a small notepad and a pencil.

[Graehamkracker]

Turning to Chad: "That's strange... I thought he would have been more invested. Perhaps tomorrow afternoon? I won't be up until then."

[RealZachKraus]

Chadwick scratches the back of his head with his unarmored left hand, "Jeez I really would have thought so too. Oh well, I guess we have four days to figure it out, whenever is convenient for him. Well I guess three now.. Anywho, we're staying at the Dancing Otter." Chadwick turns to go.

[Dragodar]

The butler stands on the stoop, holding his notepad and watching Chadwick leave with a slightly confused look on his face. He turns to Bendron for affirmation of some sort.

[Graehamkracker]

"Tomorrow morning, if he has time to spare to help save his son."

On the way back to the inn, after telling Chad of the appointment, Bendron excuses himself to head to the forge for a few hours.


While there, Bendron makes an extension to the bellows to make it pedal operated, and starts work on a brandistock. He also writes a short letter and leaves it with a gold piece: "May be busy helping with helping solve the kidnapping of Cutter. This should start off our accountings"

[Dragodar]

Bendron makes an appointment with the butler for Chadwick to meet Goodwin Cutter at 10:00 AM on Saturday at his office in the Guildhall. He then turns and follows Chadwick down the road.

About halfway back to the inn, near the southern wall of the keep, they part ways. Before they do, Bendron mentions Chadwick's appointment the next day. Then Chadwick heads to The Dancing Otter to get some sleep, while Bendron goes to the forge to work.

By the end of the night, your halberd is 25% complete.
=============

Chadwick wakes up early, refreshed and ready for another day of binge drinking, but with a grumble of displeasure he remembers that Bendron signed him up for an appointment today. He notices that Bendron is in the bed next to his, and that the dwarf has pulled a thick blanket over the window, making the room almost completely dark. Startled, Chadwick pulls back the curtain to check the clocktower at the end of the road. The hands read 8:06, and Chadwick breathes a sigh of relief, realizing that he has not missed the appointment.
Benron returns to The Dancing Otter to find the bright sunlight streaming through the window of their room. As Chadwick rolls over in his sleep, Bendron shuffles in, dropping his things at the foot of his bed and stripping off his armor before hanging a blanket over the window for darkness and collapsing on his mattress. Within minutes, the pair are both snoring.

[RealZachKraus]

Chadwick gets a quick 45 min workout in before putting on his armor and heads to the house of Mr. Cutter.

[Dragodar]

By the time he finishes his workout and makes his way to the Cutter's house, it is almost 9:30 AM. Once again he knocks on the door, and once again, the butler answers. "Is everything in order, sir?" he asks politely, with a hint of confusion in his voice.

[RealZachKraus]

"Good morning! My name is Chadwick Bronzecut. I have a meeting with Mr. Cutter at 10 didn't want to keep him waiting, I'msure he's very busy man."

[Dragodar]

"Ahh" the man begins, with an uncomfortable look of understanding on his face. "I see. Your friend must have failed to give you the proper details. You see, Master Cutter is at the Carpenters Masons and Builders Guildhall. He is expecting you there. Do you know where the Guildhall is or would you like directions?"

[RealZachKraus]

"Directions, if you please. I apologize for the miscommunication, my assistant gave me the wrong information."

[Dragodar]

"Ah, of course. Give me but a moment," the butler responds, before beckoning Chadwick into the foyer.

As he steps inside, Chadwick is greeted with the sights and smells of wealth. A marble staircase spirals up to the second floor and the foyer ceiling is two stories tall. The air smells faintly of butter and cinnamon, and the early morning sunlight seems to take on a warmer hue as it shines through the windows. The butler produces a piece of parchment and a pen from a beautifully carved wooden table and proceeds to sketch something quickly, using two different inkpots. He brings the parchment to Chadwick, blowing on it gently as he does.

"I recommend cutting across the green around the keep, it will save to time as opposed to taking the streets. You should be able to reach it in under ten minutes if you walk briskly. Good luck, sir." The butler hands Chadwick the parchment with a smile.

https://i.ibb.co/Bt8Xb2f/guildhalldirections.png

[RealZachKraus]

Chadwick take the note and sets off, but remembering his court days, elects to take the streets rather than risk being hassled by guards for cutting through the green.

[Dragodar]

Chadwick elects to take the streets, and sets off down the road, trying to make sense of the butler's sketch.

As he enters the Guildhall District, Chadwick is greeted by wide streets, large buildings, and brightly colored pendants and flags. Every building in the area seems associated with some guild or another, of which there is a countless number. After much asking around and redirection, Bendron finally finds himself on the steps of the Carpenters Masons and Builders Guildhall. Brilliant golden trim on a deep brown background forms the basis of the large banners that hang over the doorway, and the golden symbol upon them is that of a hammer, a saw, and a chisel all crossed over one another.

Chadwick arrives at the Guildhall when the clocktower reads 10:04. Making his way inside, he finds himself in a small front room with a desk in the middle. Behind the desk sits an aged man wearing spectacles and writing in a ledger.

[RealZachKraus]

Chadwick inclines his head politely, "good morning, I am Chadwick Bronzecut, I am here to speak with Goodwin Cutter, are you he?"

[Dragodar]

"Good morning! No sir, I am Elminster Drudge, the clerk, coordinator, and affairs administrator for the guild. Please give me one moment," the man responds in a friendly voice. He checks a logbook for a moment, then looks up at you, then at the grandfather clock behind his desk, which reads 10:06.

"Ahh, yes..." he says with forced politeness and an air of disapproval. "You had an appointment for ten o'clock sharp, correct?" he asks, emphasizing the time obnoxiously.

[RealZachKraus]

Chadwick bristles, but counters with the same forced politeness, "Yes, are you denying me entry?" He smiles warmly.

[Dragodar]

The man assumes a taken aback expression. "Of course not, sir! If you have an appointment, Master Cutter will honor it. He takes these things very seriously."

The man rings a small bell on his desk and after a few seconds a tall man in a simple leather jerkin emerges from one of the doors behind the desk.

"Please show Chadwick Bronzecut to Master Cutter for his 10 o'clock," the clerk says. The tall man nods and beckons to Chadwick.

"Right this way sir."

[RealZachKraus]

Chadwick follows the man, and waves to the secretary on his way in, "Thanks my good man. I assure you it's of the utmost importance."

[Dragodar]

The man leads Chadwick through a series of hallways and corridors. The building is quite large and made of stone, and it feels spacious and luxurious. After making their way into a large central room with a massive round table and up the wide staircase behind it, they eventually arrive at a grand office. The man knocks, and after a moment a voice from inside says, "Yes, come in."

The man wordlessly opens the door and gestures politely with his hand, allowing Chadwick to enter first.

"Chadwick Bronzecut for your ten o'clock appointment, sir," the man says, before closing the door behind Chadwick and leaving him alone with Goodwin Cutter.

Cutter is tall and burly, with a reddish brown beard and kind eyes. He appears to be in his fifties. Seeing Chadwick, he stands and extends his hand in greeting. "Good morning! I am Goodwin Cutter. I understand that you, and your friend with whom I spoke yesterday, are willing to help find my son?"

[RealZachKraus]

Chadwick nods vigorously, "Yes sir, you got it. If anyone can find your son it would be me and my.. associate, who you met yesterday. He was pretty vague on the details though."

[Dragodar]

Goodwin sighs deeply, as if to compose himself. Then he begins. "Melton went missing about a week ago. We didn't realize for the first day or two; we just assumed he spent the night out with his friends; he's at that age, you know. We had actually just reprimanded him for that kind of behavior a couple days before he went missing, so at first we were ready to whip him when he got back. You can imagine how quickly that anger turned into sick worry, especially for his mother."

Goodwin sighs again and rubs his eyes. The stress and worry have taken a toll on the man, and he appears older than he is.

"We sent out search parties, everywhere," Goodwin explains, as he beckons Chadwick to have a seat opposite him across the desk. "Throughout the hills, into the woods, along the river... nothing. We must have covered fifty square miles. We don't have any leads. The note arrived on our home's door, not four days ago. Have a look."

Goodwin lifts a piece of paper off his desk and hands it to Chadwick. The paper is good quality, and the ink is dark and clear.


=============
LEAVE 500 GUILDINGS IN THE WATCHMAN ONE WEEK FROM NOW
OR YOU WILL NEVER SEE YOUR SON AGAIN.
IF YOU TRY TO SET A TRAP, HE DIES.
=============

"The Watchman is a large windmill on a tall hill about five miles north of Urdale. It's surrounded by flatlands for over a mile, so it provides a clear view of anyone approaching from any direction. There's no way we could try anything without them seeing us from a long way off. We don't know what to do," Goodwin says, resting his head in his hands in a defeated pose.

[Dragodar]

RECAP OF 03-05-19 LIVE SESSION
=============
========
===

Bendron and Chadwick spent their Saturday looking into the circumstances leading up to the disappearance of Melton Cutter. The morning began with Bendron in bed and Chadwick meeting Goodwin Cutter at 10:00 AM. The Guildmaster explained that he had no idea who would want to harm his family, but he offered to be of any help possible during the investigation. Chadwick then excused himself and spoke with Elminster Drudge, the guild clerk. Drudge was forthcoming and mentioned that the guild has been enjoying great success lately, and that there is little in the way of turmoil or conflict amongst its members.

After speaking with Drudge, Chadwick left the guildhall and made his way to the Cutter's home around 11:00 AM. There he spoke to the butler, Alfred, and learned that Melton would sometimes sneak out at night to hang out with his friends, but that this was not an uncommon occurrence and was not initially cause for alarm. Typically these episode would not last more than a day, but having recently been in an argument with his parents over something trivial, it was assumed for the first two days that he was staying with a friend. When the ransom note came he had already been gone for two days.

Chadwick thanked Alfred and left the Cutter's home around noon to return to the The Busty Rusty Pub and speak with Barney. From the bartender, he learned that this was a fairly isolated event and that crime in the city was actually very low. According to Barney, petty street crime made up the vast majority of the crime in Urdale, and occurrences such as kidnappings and ransoms were essentially unheard of. Chadwick also learned that the Cutters were a respected family and had done some good for the community, and that Barney was unsure of who would want to do them wrong. He wrapped up his conversation with Barney and headed to the bathroom for a long, relaxing dump.

=============

Around 1:00 PM, Chadwick exited the restroom, thanked Barney for the drinks and the information, and headed across the street to wake up Bendron. Once Bendron was awake and ready to go, Chadwick filled him in on the details and they decided to try to speak to some of Melton's teenage friends. The pair made their way back to the residential district and began knocking on doors. They had soon gathered a list of the children Melton tended to associate with: Abanach Eaglewood, Natalia Colter, Dalton Wilmer, Stemma Kenford, Asher Dyerton, and Tia Stobard.

They began with Abanach, around 2:00 PM. He seemed to be about fourteen or fifteen, and was sullen and far from excited to have visitors. He also seemed slightly nervous. They asked Mrs. Eagleton if they could speak with him alone, to which she acquiesced. While Chadwick flirted with the maid, Bendron questioned the lad. After much pressing, Abanach admitted that they would sometimes frequent the red light district for weed.

Chadwick and Bendron left the Eagletons' around 3:00 PM and headed to the home of the Kenfords to speak with Stemma. She was younger than Abanach and seemed very timid and nervous. They learned little from her, except that she wished the Cutters would pay the ransom to get the whole thing over with.

=============

Around 4:00 PM, they made their way across town to the red light district to do some investigating. They met Mireen and Benji, whom Chadwick already knew and of whom Bendron newly made the acquaintance. Mireen was a prostitute for The Velvet Glove and Benji was a promoter for the same. From these two, Chadwick and Bendron learned that teenagers often frequented the red light district but so many people passed through on a regular basis that it was hard to know who was who.

Benji pointed out that teenagers typically bought from a dealer named Maladrici because he charged lower prices due to lower quality product. Ben and Chad thanked Benji and set off to find Maladrici.

At about 5:00 PM they found Maladrici selling his wares and began to question him. He cooperated just enough to avoid trouble but seemed very annoyed that they were cutting into his business time. From Maladrici, they learned that the youth who typically bought the drugs with their pooled money was a blonde haired blue eyed lad who seemed older than the others and was likely the ringleader.

=============

By abut 6:00 PM, they were back in the wealthy residential district to question more children. Chad and Ben made their way to the Dyerton's home, where the maid told them that Mr. and Mrs. Dyerton were not home and that Ash was not willing to speak with visitors at the time.

They then visited the Wilmer residence, and met Mr. and Mrs. Wilmer around 7:00 PM as they were leaving. The Wilmers had somewhere to be and seemed rather dismissive, and so Chadwick and Bendron knocked on the door and made the acquaintance of Gerald, the Wilmers' ancient butler. He got sidetracked several times before finally revealing that Dalton was the spitting image of his father, the dark haired man they had seen leaving.

Remembering that Abanach had black hair and Dalton had brown hair caused them to realize that the blonde lad must be Ash Dyerton, and so they made their way back to the Dyerton household, where the maid informed them that Ash was now no longer home. They immediately left for the red light district.

=============

By 8:00 PM they were once again in the red light district and confronting Maladrici. After some vigorous questioning and thinly veiled threats, they decided that he was telling the truth when he said he had not seen the boy since they had last spoken.

At this point, Chad and Ben returned to the Dyerton house to hatch a new plan. After studying the property briefly, they decided to return to the The Dancing Otter and continue the next morning.

By 9:00 PM, the sun had set, and the dark blue sky was quickly growing darker as it fades to black and the twinkling stars appear. Chadwick and Bendron collapsed onto their beds and fell into a deep and restful slumber.

It is 9:00 PM on Saturday, Iru 20th.
=============

The arise the next day to continue their investigation.

https://i.ibb.co/cx8K5Qy/urdalemap.png
https://i.ibb.co/2jsssfQ/urdalekey.png
It is 8:00 AM on Sunday, Iru 21st.

[Dragodar]

Chadwick and Bendron arise early the next morning to continue their investigation. Stepping outside, the cold winter air greets them with a bitter breeze and they see their breath hang in the air in front of them. The temperature has dropped significantly overnight and the change is noticeable. The early morning sun shines across the rooftops of the city but provides little warmth, and the few people in the streets hurry to and fro on their business, keen to be outside as little as possible.

It is almost 8:00 AM on Sunday, Iru 21st.

[Graehamkracker]

The pair head back to the Ash's family estate and knock ok the door, hoping to find him this time.

[Dragodar]

Walking briskly through the cold wind, they soon arrive at the Dyerton house. Knocking on the door, they are greeted once again by the middle aged maid.

"Good morning and hello again," she says. "How may I help you?" Her mousy face is all they can see through the small window.

[Graehamkracker]

"Hoping to speak to Ash - or his parents, if he is not available. I'm afraid it's a matter of some urgency."

[Dragodar]

She nods. "One moment please," she says. The window closes and the door opens.

"Please come in from the cold while you wait," she says. "May I know your names and business, please?"

[Graehamkracker]

Bendron enters warily. "Bendron. And this is Chad. We're helping the Cutters with the kidnapping"

[Dragodar]

"Oh, I see," she responds, a look of concern appearing on her face. "Of course. Give me just a moment."

She exits down a corridor, leaving them in the foyer. For a few minutes they wait in silence, and then the maid returns. Behind her, a tall blonde youth slumps into the room. He is wearing expensive clothes but they are loosely and sloppily thrown over his frame. The maid gestures at Chadwick and Bendron.

"Bendron and Chad, Master Ash. Here to speak with you about Melton." She smiles at him and then recuses herself, leaving the three of them standing in the foyer. The lad stands before them, his eyes wandering back and forth between them, waiting for them to speak. His expression is unreadable and his posture terrible.

[Graehamkracker]

"Find anything good last night? I've heard there's a new blend of marching powder in town." Bendron starts, eyeing the youth for his reaction

[Dragodar]

The boy squints at the question, glancing back and forth from Bendron to Chad. "What?"

[Graehamkracker]

"No need to play coy, we've already met your dealer. Says you're their favorite customer, and just saw you a couple days ago. More important, on the day when Melton disappeared."

[Dragodar]

Ash frowns slightly and slowly responds, "Yeeeaaaah... I don't use marching powder; I'm not a washed up middle aged soldier," he says, throwing a less than respectful glance from Chadwick to Bendron. "I think you've got some bad info."

Bendron Insight Check: (1d20+5)[16]
As far as you can tell, the boy is either a very good actor or is being genuine.

[Graehamkracker]

"Alright then, let's assume I was misinformed. Then where were you the night Melton was snatched? And last night, and all the other nights you sneak out?"

[Dragodar]

"Well if you tell me what day he got snatched, I might be able to tell you. That question is pretty vague. Last night I was out with friends." Ash stands with his arms crossed, tapping his foot, an exasperated look on his face. "And do you want list of every place I go every night? I don't keep a journal so I can't help you there."

[RealZachKraus]

Chadwick furrows his brow, "Pretty sure you know exactly what we're talking about? What you so angry for? We're trying to find your friend. That puts us on the same team, yeah?"

[Dragodar]

"Yeah, a lot of people are trying to find my friend. Not a lot of them have come to my house and started interrogating me about where I go and what drugs I do," Ash says, squinting at Chad sullenly. "Now unless you have any further questions, I'm tired of the way you're speaking to me and I think you should go."

[Graehamkracker]

Bendron turns to Chad. "Maybe we should get the folks, and just show them the evidence. I don't know why you care about sparing this strákur from the consequences of his stupidity." As he says evidence, Bendron points at where Chad has his powder stashed.

[RealZachKraus]

Chadwick holds up his unarmored left hand. "It don't have to be like that. Just help us out. Any information helps."

[Graehamkracker]

"He's already shown he's less than helpful. Denies everything, even though we know he was out there that Saturday, and again just a few days ago."

[Dragodar]

"I don't know when he went missing, but I last saw Melton a little over a week ago. Thursday or Friday. We were hanging out in the woods east of the temple district. We got home late. That's all I know."

Ash shrugs and turns away. He walks down the corridor that the maid had left through, calling, "Auphelia! Our visitors were just leaving. Will you show them out, please?"

As the boy disappears from view, the maid comes scurrying into the foyer. She rushes to open the door for Chadwick and Bendron, and bids them farewell with a tight lipped smile.

"Have a good day, gentlemen," she says, with a slight curtsy.