The outpost

[gryffydd65]

The outpost sits in the Red Vale in the Iron Shield Mountains. The mountains have been long abandoned by the Iron Dwarves. The King's Adviser hand picked this group to man this long forgotten outpost that hasn't seen a visitor from the other side in over 300 years. You're not sure why you were picked but here you are.

The outpost is built right between the two mountain sides. It is three stories. Roof top with arrow slits. Second floor has four bed rooms each with ten beds. First floor has kitchen and dining hall. Basement with winery, storage and armory. Second floor has a removable ladder to the roof and four windows facing the unknown. The first floor has a back stairwell leading to the second floor and a lower stairwell leading to the basement. A double door made of iron bound oak planks is in the center of first floor which is fifty feet wide. The first floor has arrow slits five on each side of the door. A crumbling wall which is about 6 feet tall is about 200 yards from the outpost into the unknown.

Presently an old human couple and their thirty something old daughter take care of the outpost as care takers.

The old man introduces himself. " I am Zand and this is my wife Cara and my daughter Ash. Who might you be?"

[Zero Prime]

https://i.postimg.cc/bYGfXDVQ/Tariq-ibn-Al-Qureshi.png
Tariq ibn Al-Quershi, Mulhorandi exile (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2278318)
AC: 16 | HP: 21 of 21 | Ki: 3 of 3
Passive Perception: 15 | Passive Insight: 15
Conditions: None.

Tariq was dressed inappropriately for the mountain weather, light silken sandals, with cured leather soles. Wide billowing pants made of soft linen, a wide red, silken sash tied at the hip, and a light vest that covered his shoulders, but did little to hide the circular spiral of tattoos that radiated out from between his shoulder blades. His wrists were wrapped in leather and dyed cotton cloth, his left upper arm had a ring around it, engraved with a textured feather-like pattern, it's ends two stylized hawk profiles. A number of charms and medallions hung from his neck, his hair, jet black, was tied back and hung to the small of his back. In a sheath across his back was a long staff, with a bronzed spear head affixed to the tip, around the neck of the spear point, ribbons of red and white were tied.

He stood before the family, placing his left hand palm up, pressed against his sternum, followed by his right fist into his left palm. Almost reverently closing the fingers of his open palm around his fist. He nodded, a slight bow, and then spoke the common, trade tongue, with a heavy Mulhorandi accent. "I am Tariq ibn Al-Qureshi, my companions and I have been granted the honor of restoring this outpost to it's former glory, by order of the King, your own Liege and Lord."

After introducing himself he stood, maintaining the pose, head bowed, right hand clasped in left palm, awaiting the family's response.

[Izzarra]

https://media-waterdeep.cursecdn.com/avatars/10/12/636336422983071263.jpeg
Azzalix


Due to her heritage Azzalix was cursed with rather grim facial features making it so that many assume that she is angry when she is not actively expressing herself, which is most of the time. A smile does not come naturally to her face. The sweeping horns, obsidian skin, and piercing crimson eyes do little to help. In sharp contrast to her features there is a cute little fuzzy white squirrel perched on one of her horns.

She is wearing a black hooded robe and carries a lacquered staff carved with runes and topped with a red stone. The hobnail boots she has on are far better suited for trekking through the wilderness then dancing in a tavern.

Bowing her head only slightly she says "Well met, I am Azzalix, apothecary by trade." with a trace of under-common accent from her youth.

[NontheistCleric]

https://i.ibb.co/hWHkNgp/Runa.png
Runa (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2280099)
AC: 16 | HP: 25 of 25
Passive Perception: 12 | Passive Insight: 12
Conditions: —

Wrapped in a faded brown travelling cloak, Runa keeps only her face exposed to the elements. It's a thin, ashen face, the kind that seems both younger and older than it really is all at once. What little can be seen of her remaining ensemble is various shades of blue, from the dark smock barely visible through gaps of cloak to the indigo scarf that winds around her head in a makeshift turban.

"I'm Runa," she says briskly to the couple, cultured capital-city tones contrasting with her weathered clothing. As she speaks, she extends a hand to shake Zand's. "Do you know what exactly we're supposed to be doing here? The Royal Adviser didn't say."

[gryffydd65]

Well I was. Instructed that you were man this fort and restore it. My family and I will help in daily food preparation and other activities that you find you do not have the skills for.

Zand held his hand out in a warriors stance. He carried a a well worn dagger in a leather sheath made of exotic materials and a hand axe on his other hip.

The women bowed in respect. Neither one talking although the daughter's eyes met Tariq's.

Beds are upstairs. Feel free to check out the place , while we make you something to eat.

[NontheistCleric]

https://i.ibb.co/hWHkNgp/Runa.png
Runa (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2280099)
AC: 16 | HP: 25 of 25
Passive Perception: 12 | Passive Insight: 12
Conditions: —

"Not much more than we told, then," says Runa, "but I'm glad it wasn't something like an enemy sighting that called us here. Food would be much appreciated, thank you." She nods briefly at the bowing pair before sweeping past the family to the stairs.

On the second floor, Runa makes for the bedroom nearest the stairs and finds the bed closest to the door that has a good view through it when it's open. After a round of poking and prodding to ensure it isn't infested with parasites or liable to fall apart at a touch, she shrugs off her pack and puts it beside the bed to mark it as hers.

With the matter of sleeping space settled, Runa takes a long drink from her waterskin before climbing up to the roof. She walks around it once, noting what can be seen from every point of its perimeter, then descends back into the building to see what the others are up to.

[Zero Prime]

https://i.postimg.cc/bYGfXDVQ/Tariq-ibn-Al-Qureshi.png
Tariq ibn Al-Quershi, Mulhorandi exile (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2278318)
AC: 16 | HP: 21 of 21 | Ki: 3 of 3
Passive Perception: 15 | Passive Insight: 15
Conditions: None.

Tariq nodded towards the family, "You have our thanks, my companions and I will be glad to join you once we are done our inspection of the facility and it's fortifications." He turned, and followed the blue clad woman, seeing her take the barrack room closest the stairwell, he thought that it would do to become familiar with his companions, so he stowed his gear on a bed opposite Runa's.

He turns to his companions, "As I mentioned to the stewards of this outpost, I am Tariq ibn Al-Quershi, I serve as an Advisor to our Liege, in respect to trade routes, and the customs of my homeland, the eternal Kingdom of Mulhorand. I am, as ever, at your service." Another bow, and a strange orientation of his hands, fist pressed to palm while he did so.

"I, humbly, suggest, we begin our inspect at the foundation and the supply rooms. It is likely we may need carpenters and masons to restore this outpost to it's former glory."

[NontheistCleric]

https://i.ibb.co/hWHkNgp/Runa.png
Runa (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2280099)
AC: 16 | HP: 25 of 25
Passive Perception: 12 | Passive Insight: 12
Conditions: —

Runa checks that none of the caretakers are outside, then closes the door and returns to her bed, flopping down on it.

"Inspect, certainly," she replies, just loud enough for everyone inside the room to hear. "But if carpenters and masons were what this place needed, no doubt the Adviser would have picked them for the team. Instead he sends a man of the desert to a freezing mountain and a pair of magicians to boot. There is something we have not been told, so be on guard. For all we know, even the caretakers of this place are not trustworthy."

Then she sits up, speaking at normal volume. "Anyway, Tariq, you were saying we should check the basement? No time like the present, then."

Getting to her feet, she crosses the room to the door and opens it, gesturing as if to say, "After you."

I'm just going to assume everyone is in the room because it makes things simpler.

[Izzarra]

https://media-waterdeep.cursecdn.com/avatars/10/12/636336422983071263.jpeg
Azzalix



"I will look into any medical supplies that might be on hand and try to set up an infirmary." says Azzalix as she selects a bed and drops off her pack.

[gryffydd65]

The foundation looks solid to the untrained eye, no cracks , no loose rocks or mortar.
14 to see anything unusual.

In the kitchen which doubles as the surgery room is medium sized cabinet that holds three cure potions and two medical kits. Other bottles of dried ingredients are stored here but not labeled. 14 herbalism to tell what it is and what it does.

Runa was able to see that the outpost was built between the two mountain sides . Beyond the crumbling wall are small cacti and a dry river bed that meanders until it drops out of sight around the bend about 600 more yards.
Any information beyondthe wall will have to be explored.

[Izzarra]

https://media-waterdeep.cursecdn.com/avatars/10/12/636336422983071263.jpeg
Azzalix


After inspecting the medical kits Azzalix tries to identify the dried herbs.

Herbalism: [roll0]

[HelixIconix]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Dc9ezIEVwAESQB7.png
Kier meandered around calmly, watching what everyone else did and considering the likelihood of decent privacy. Before the others disperse and he's left to his own devices, a mellow voice comes from his average-looking face, "I'm going to scout our surroundings, and if necessary exterminate any pests that may contest local resources. I know a small variety of tiny insects that infest cacti and make them inedible, for example."
Kier then takes a stroll outside, and once he is far enough away to avoid being seen, he folds his cloak up nice and neat in his pack and unfurls his wings. "Gods, it took so long to get stretching room!"
Launching into the air, he explores the landscape "as the crow flies", using his bird's-eye view to take note of minor landmarks or potential hideouts (for bandits, goblins, or anything else).
Perception: [roll0]

[Zero Prime]

https://i.postimg.cc/bYGfXDVQ/Tariq-ibn-Al-Qureshi.png
Tariq ibn Al-Quershi, Mulhorandi exile (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2278318)
AC: 16 | HP: 21 of 21 | Ki: 3 of 3
Passive Perception: 15 | Passive Insight: 15
Conditions: None.

Tariq nodded towards Runa, "Then let us inspect the foundation, and take store of the supplies." He ventured through the keep, descending to the stairs, taking note of store rooms, ante chambers, and defensive measures, putting together an image of the keep and it's interior in the event that he needed to navigate it during a crisis.

He turned to his companion, "I am unsure if we should be splitting up, our companion, Kier, should not be alone in unknown territory. It seems ...," he paused, choosing his words carefully, "unwise."

As they entered the foundation of the keep, he ran a hand over the walls, his eyes half closed, allowing his intuition to guide him. "So tell me Runa, what brought you to the Advisor's attention? He seemed a most enigmatic man."

OOC: Perception check taking inventory & checking the foundation [roll0]. Whelp, that looks like a natural 20!

[Holy-hunter]

DARHSAN IRONTOOTH
AC: 20 | HP: 38 of 38
Passive Perception: 14 | Passive Insight: 12
Conditions: —

It was quite sometime after the others that Darhsan Irontooth finally made an appearance. The cold of the mountains once again creeped into the building as he threw open the door and the chilling, whistling winds billowed in around his tall muscular physique.

Standing in the entrance, the mountain air continued to ruffle the hairs of the many furs strewn over his heavily tattooed body.
Around his neck hung carved ornaments of wood and bone. Similar designed crafting’s pierced his ears and nose. He had long, disheveled dirty blonde hair that hung around his shoulders and an unkempt beard bearing various beads.
Despite the hardness of his body, his eyes were soft and sorrowful. Both deep and soulful yet also wild and tortured, they whispered of his inner torment. Almost glowing orange with inner flecks of green.
He wore no armour but carried a large shield over a bow on his back along with an assortment of supplies. A sword hung at his side. In his hand were two freshly killed rabbits, the results of his delay.

Curling his bottom lip in, Darhsan let out a loud shrill whistle. A moment later his dog, Feraj, a large mastiff came eagerly bounding in behind him. Her short dark coat dirty from the long trip. Eyes wide with excitement she circled around, her scar laden nose twitching as she sniffed at the rabbits in hopeful anticipation. Instead she was greeted with a rough pat and some pre-dried meat and then left to her own vices.
Darhsan made his way around the building and would eventually settle in the kitchen with his catch.

[gryffydd65]

https://media-waterdeep.cursecdn.com/avatars/10/12/636336422983071263.jpeg
Azzalix


After inspecting the medical kits Azzalix tries to identify the dried herbs.

Herbalism: [roll0]

It seems to be a poison kit without the carrying case.

[gryffydd65]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Dc9ezIEVwAESQB7.png
Kier meandered around calmly, watching what everyone else did and considering the likelihood of decent privacy. Before the others disperse and he's left to his own devices, a mellow voice comes from his average-looking face, "I'm going to scout our surroundings, and if necessary exterminate any pests that may contest local resources. I know a small variety of tiny insects that infest cacti and make them inedible, for example."
Kier then takes a stroll outside, and once he is far enough away to avoid being seen, he folds his cloak up nice and neat in his pack and unfurls his wings. "Gods, it took so long to get stretching room!"
Launching into the air, he explores the landscape "as the crow flies", using his bird's-eye view to take note of minor landmarks or potential hideouts (for bandits, goblins, or anything else).
Perception: [roll0]

Small rocks that could hide a small creature. A couple cacti that could give half cover. The river bed is about 1 foot drop from the sides. Nothing else is noticeable.

[gryffydd65]

https://i.postimg.cc/bYGfXDVQ/Tariq-ibn-Al-Qureshi.png
Tariq ibn Al-Quershi, Mulhorandi exile (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2278318)
AC: 16 | HP: 21 of 21 | Ki: 3 of 3
Passive Perception: 15 | Passive Insight: 15
Conditions: None.

Tariq nodded towards Runa, "Then let us inspect the foundation, and take store of the supplies." He ventured through the keep, descending to the stairs, taking note of store rooms, ante chambers, and defensive measures, putting together an image of the keep and it's interior in the event that he needed to navigate it during a crisis.

He turned to his companion, "I am unsure if we should be splitting up, our companion, Kier, should not be alone in unknown territory. It seems ...," he paused, choosing his words carefully, "unwise."

As they entered the foundation of the keep, he ran a hand over the walls, his eyes half closed, allowing his intuition to guide him. "So tell me Runa, what brought you to the Advisor's attention? He seemed a most enigmatic man."

OOC: Perception check taking inventory & checking the foundation [roll0]. Whelp, that looks like a natural 20!
With that roll you find that the floor grate is loose in the basement floor. Although it hasn't been moved in many years, you find that there is leather bag. It seems to have something in it.

[NontheistCleric]

https://i.ibb.co/hWHkNgp/Runa.png
Runa (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2280099)
AC: 16 | HP: 25 of 25
Passive Perception: 12 | Passive Insight: 12
Conditions: —

Runa listens to Tariq express his concerns about Kier.

"Ah, well," she says dryly, "he is a wizard. Needs to preserve a bit of mystique and all that. Really, though, he was the Advisor's choice, so I assume he knows what he's doing. And if he doesn't, then better he show it now than later."

Down in the basement, Runa rootles about in every nook and cranny for anything untoward. She gives special attention to the armory, making note of any abnormalities among the weapons, and in the wine cellar, she jostles and taps each barrel, trying to determine if anything solid is hidden inside.

"Enigmatic?" she echoes Tariq's comment. "I suppose he can be, but it's only his job: telling people what they need to know and nothing else. Even the King, sometimes. But it's no mystery why I'm here; I'm His Majesty's own soldier, and anything that warrants the Advisor's personal attention can hardly be trusted to foreigners—at least not completely. He asked the brass for someone suitable, and they chose me."

"What about you?" she asks, cocking her head inquisitively at him. "Man from the burning sands, come to work for a foreign King—makes for a better story than mine, I'm sure."

Investigation: [roll0]

[Izzarra]

https://media-waterdeep.cursecdn.com/avatars/10/12/636336422983071263.jpeg
Azzalix



After determining the identity of the different herbs Azzalix frowns, these should not be stored so haphazardly. She carefully labels everything before compiling a list of recommended medical supplies that should be sent with the next shipment should they determine that the outpost be restaffed.

[HelixIconix]

Satisfied with the renewal of his wing muscles, Kier drifts down to the same place he took off from, and walks his way back into the fort.
He wasn't paying too much attention once he entered the building, and nearly ran into Azzalix.
Instead, he ducked to the side just in time to avoid knocking off her strange familiar, and walked past her awkwardly.
He was interested to talk with her about her heritage, eventually. He figured that he shouldn't approach the subject with her carelessly -- he'd probably have to reveal his own fiendish blood to her first, with discretion.
If Kier could learn anything interesting about the drow, he knew his mentor would surely be pleased to find out.
Recovering from his misstep, Kier sat down and pulled out his spellbook, and began studying.

[gryffydd65]

https://i.ibb.co/hWHkNgp/Runa.png
Runa (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2280099)
AC: 16 | HP: 25 of 25
Passive Perception: 12 | Passive Insight: 12
Conditions: —

Runa listens to Tariq express his concerns about Kier.

"Ah, well," she says dryly, "he is a wizard. Needs to preserve a bit of mystique and all that. Really, though, he was the Advisor's choice, so I assume he knows what he's doing. And if he doesn't, then better he show it now than later."

Down in the basement, Runa rootles about in every nook and cranny for anything untoward. She gives special attention to the armory, making note of any abnormalities among the weapons, and in the wine cellar, she jostles and taps each barrel, trying to determine if anything solid is hidden inside.

"Enigmatic?" she echoes Tariq's comment. "I suppose he can be, but it's only his job: telling people what they need to know and nothing else. Even the King, sometimes. But it's no mystery why I'm here; I'm His Majesty's own soldier, and anything that warrants the Advisor's personal attention can hardly be trusted to foreigners—at least not completely. He asked the brass for someone suitable, and they chose me."

"What about you?" she asks, cocking her head inquisitively at him. "Man from the burning sands, come to work for a foreign King—makes for a better story than mine, I'm sure."

Investigation: [roll0]
Three barrels are full and the smell of pure grain alchohol.

It seems that all simple and martial weapons can be found in groups of 5. 5 short swords, 5 long bows etc.
The same with armor except no plate. All armor is made for medium sized.

[Holy-hunter]

Darhsan welcomes aid in the kitchen from the residents as long as it was only to assist and show him where things are.
Surprisingly for a barbarian he knew a bit about cooking and was very particular in his methods.

He lacked in social etiquette and pleasantries but still made for small talk despite using few words.

”What do you hunt here?
How long you lived here?
Any attacks, threats? ”
He asks his questions randomly, speaking bluntly without provocation or warning in his deep gravelly voice.

After some time and some more small talk, a warm stew will be waiting for all. Hopefully it would be better than the rations of the last days travel.

”EAT.” he calls loudly as he finds a seat and beckons to his pet.

[roll0] cooking[roll1]

[Izzarra]

https://media-waterdeep.cursecdn.com/avatars/10/12/636336422983071263.jpeg
Azzalix


After nearly being run over, Azzalix gives Kier an icy stare.

While Darhsan prepares stew she goes and retrieves a block of pressed black tea wrapped in cloth and a teapot from her pack. She carefully shaves off some tea and brews a pot.

[Zero Prime]

https://i.postimg.cc/bYGfXDVQ/Tariq-ibn-Al-Qureshi.png
Tariq ibn Al-Quershi, Mulhorandi exile (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2278318)
AC: 16 | HP: 21 of 21 | Ki: 3 of 3
Passive Perception: 15 | Passive Insight: 15
Conditions: None.


"What about you?" she asks, cocking her head inquisitively at him. "Man from the burning sands, come to work for a foreign King—makes for a better story than mine, I'm sure."

Tariq paused, as he inspected the contents of the satchel he removed from it's niche. Almost absently, he responded, "When said King has agreed to shelter an exiled student of Irori's teachings from the retribution of the Red Council, it is not so far fetched." He replaced the contents into the satchel, "Though perhaps a tale for another time."

He bowed to Runa, "It appears some gear of exceptional quality lay hidden in this storeroom for some time. Perhaps we should venture upwards and meet with our fellows, to learn what they have discovered."

[gryffydd65]

Zand , Cara and Ash come into the kitchen. Cara and Ash start bringing out bowls and spoons. Ash goes to a cupboard and brings out a long wrapped shape while Cara pulls out a jar of honey. Zand goes down to the basement and returns with a wine bottle. " I thought we could celebrate the opening of this outpost. Maybe you all can regale us with tales of your exploits. We recieved word of your coming but not much else. We have lived here since Ash was five. She would like some one younger than her parents to talk to." Zand said looking at the group.

[NontheistCleric]

https://i.ibb.co/hWHkNgp/Runa.png
Runa (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2280099)
AC: 16 | HP: 25 of 25
Passive Perception: 12 | Passive Insight: 12
Conditions: —

A flash of pity crosses Runa's face when Tariq mentions exile. "Perhaps 'better' is not the word, then," she says apologetically. "Still, it does sound worth hearing—if you ever feel like sharing."

Hearing Zand coming down the stairs, she stretches out a hand for the satchel. "Let me hide that," she mutters hurriedly. "We should reveal it at the table and watch that family's reactions; I can't imagine a good reason they would hide this."

[Izzarra]

https://media-waterdeep.cursecdn.com/avatars/10/12/636336422983071263.jpeg
Azzalix


Despite looking like a young adult, Azzalix is in fact almost a half century old. However she has not quite gotten the knack for estimating the age of humans so she is unsure if she is older then Ash.

Never the less she tries to be friendly to Ash "This is Nibbles." as she holds out her arm as her familiar runs down to sit in her hand. Unfortunately she ends up giving off the demeaner of an angry librarian that has had to tell somebody to be quiet one too many times.

https://images2.imgbox.com/ae/a0/a8IItQ3x_o.png

[Holy-hunter]

”And how old is Ash now?”
Darhsan asks while still filling his mouth with stew and unapologetically eyeing Ash up and down.

Going back to one of his earlier questions, he repeats it. Still seeking an answer.
”Had any troubles here in that time? ”

Then Azzalix and Nibbles caught his attention. He and his now alert dog look at the squirrel with the same hungry curiosity.
”Ah, if I had known you had that long rat we could of had some more meat in this stew.”
He says to the drow. A wide teasing yet friendly smile followed his words.


“And Zand, I hope there’s more wine than that, or it may be a short and sad celebration.”

[Zero Prime]

https://i.postimg.cc/bYGfXDVQ/Tariq-ibn-Al-Qureshi.png
Tariq ibn Al-Quershi, Mulhorandi exile (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2278318)
AC: 16 | HP: 21 of 21 | Ki: 3 of 3
Passive Perception: 15 | Passive Insight: 15
Conditions: None.

Tariq nodded as pity flitted across the woman's face when he spoke of his past. "I thank you for your sincerity, it is an old wound, but even yet, still not fully healed, however, we must remove the bindings and allow the injury to heal, lest rot set in. So perhaps," a pause, "in time."

Runa more fully explained her intention, Tariq could only shrug, he did not truly expect that the family above were aware of the hidden cache, however, the woman may be right, and caution the best approach. He handed her the small satchel, "It was well hidden, they could well have walked over the flag stone for years, unaware of it's presence. Though I will defer to your judgement on the matter." He looked up the stairs, as he heard sounds of conversation from the kitchens, "Perhaps we best re-join our companions then?"

[Izzarra]

https://media-waterdeep.cursecdn.com/avatars/10/12/636336422983071263.jpeg
Azzalix


The glare that Azzalix gives Darhsan as she protectively holds Nibbles away from him is absolutely glacial.

[NontheistCleric]

https://i.ibb.co/hWHkNgp/Runa.png
Runa (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2280099)
AC: 16 | HP: 25 of 25
Passive Perception: 12 | Passive Insight: 12
Conditions: —

"Yes, let's." Runa stows the satchel under her cloak and follows Tariq up, giving Zand a small quirk of a smile as they pass him on the stairs.

"Causing trouble, Master Irontooth?" she drawls with mock exasperation, entering the kitchen to see Darhsan ogling Ash while Azzalix glares daggers at him. "No bad thing to be on guard, but best not to put people on the wrong kind."

Then Zand re-enters the room with the bottle of wine. "Ah, Zand!" she exclaims. "Good, the whole family's here. I was hoping you could explain this—and while you're at it maybe tell me why the bottles in your cellar are filled with poison." Drawing the satchel from under her cloak with a flourish, she dumps it on the table, letting its contents spill out. "A hidden cache of such obviously high-end equipment is suspicious enough, but placing poison in any kind of foodstuff is tantamount to murder in this kingdom."

Runa sits down, fixing Zand, then Cara and finally Ash with her coldest stare. "Part of me hopes you three are responsible, just because at least then we're not facing some mysterious enemy. But jumping to conclusions never helped anyone, so let's hear your side of it."

[gryffydd65]

https://i.ibb.co/hWHkNgp/Runa.png
Runa (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2280099)
AC: 16 | HP: 25 of 25
Passive Perception: 12 | Passive Insight: 12
Conditions: —

"Yes, let's." Runa stows the satchel under her cloak and follows Tariq up, giving Zand a small quirk of a smile as they pass him on the stairs.

"Causing trouble, Master Irontooth?" she drawls with mock exasperation, entering the kitchen to see Darhsan ogling Ash while Azzalix glares daggers at him. "No bad thing to be on guard, but best not to put people on the wrong kind."

Then Zand re-enters the room with the bottle of wine. "Ah, Zand!" she exclaims. "Good, the whole family's here. I was hoping you could explain this—and while you're at it maybe tell me why the bottles in your cellar are filled with poison." Drawing the satchel from under her cloak with a flourish, she dumps it on the table, letting its contents spill out. "A hidden cache of such obviously high-end equipment is suspicious enough, but placing poison in any kind of foodstuff is tantamount to murder in this kingdom."

Runa sits down, fixing Zand, then Cara and finally Ash with her coldest stare. "Part of me hopes you three are responsible, just because at least then we're not facing some mysterious enemy. But jumping to conclusions never helped anyone, so let's hear your side of it."
Zand looks squarely at Runa. " I know nothing about bootles of poison in the basement just three kegs of pure grain alchohol, as for that bag, I have never seen it and if I had I would have used what I could and sold the rest." He looks at his wife and then his daughter. "They have done nothing wrong, I am responsible for the upkeep of this outpost, if you have the authority to relieve me of my duties then do so, young lady."

[HelixIconix]

Still looking at his spellbook, Kier's eyebrows raise. Well that escalated quickly.

[Izzarra]

https://media-waterdeep.cursecdn.com/avatars/10/12/636336422983071263.jpeg
Azzalix



Things were much simpler wandering through the forests collecting medicinal herbs. Now people are wanting to eat Nibbles and throwing bags of stuff on the dinner table.

"May I examine these bottles you speak of?"

I doubt they are lying but I will make a roll just in case.
Insight: [roll0]

[NontheistCleric]

https://i.ibb.co/hWHkNgp/Runa.png
Runa (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2280099)
AC: 16 | HP: 25 of 25
Passive Perception: 12 | Passive Insight: 12
Conditions: —

"Don't call me young lady, Zand, unless you'd prefer I address you as 'old man'," says Runa icily. "But while I do have that happy power, it is not mine alone."

She looks around the room at her colleagues. "So what do we all think? Anyone in favor of Zand's guilt or innocence? Azzalix, you might as well check those bottles—if he stops you, he's guilty anyway."

Is Tariq still going to make an Insight check with Runa's help? If yes, then ignore what's below, but if no, then Runa will make her own.

Insight: [roll0]

[gryffydd65]

" I am 48 years old if that makes me an old man in your eyes then so be it. You can look at any bottle in the basement you want. I know nothing about poisons. " Zand says looking at Tuna.

[HelixIconix]

Kier lets out a sigh, and closes his spellbook. To Runa, he says, "I'm not in favor of firing anyone who can potentially be of help, especially in the middle of nowhere. We are here to build an institution of solidarity, not harass the only caretaker who's stuck around ever since this place was otherwise abandoned. Even if there was significant incontrovertible evidence that he was aware of illegal or harmful contraband, I'd be willing to weigh years of dedicated upkeep against such charges and still rule in his favor, were the king to appoint me a judge. But I'm not a judge, and neither are you."
Then he turns to Zand, "Don"t get me wrong, this looks pretty suspicious to our eyes as newcomers. But I'd really like to avoid getting off on the wrong foot any more than we already have. If the accusations turn out to be false, I apologize in advance. If they're not, the consequences will have to wait until this fort is more secure anyway... And we would have to immediately appoint a new cook." He grins wryly at his own joke.

[Zero Prime]

https://i.postimg.cc/bYGfXDVQ/Tariq-ibn-Al-Qureshi.png
Tariq ibn Al-Quershi, Mulhorandi exile (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2278318)
AC: 16 | HP: 21 of 21 | Ki: 3 of 3
Passive Perception: 15 | Passive Insight: 15
Conditions: None.

Tariq watched the exchange, almost passively, his eyes taking in their hosts actions, and his reactions, to Runa's accusations. As Kier rebuffed Runa, then turned his attention back to the man, he watched keenly. The exchange had provided him with a useful degree of information about the man, and his response to the threats and accusations.

"You understand, of course, that my companions and I, simply by being here, are placed at risk. And so we must ascertain the loyalty, and intent, of the Crown's servants, yourself, your family, even one another, before we can properly do our job." He nodded towards the satchel, "An odd assortment of extremely valuable gear, the kind which may be used by the Crown's agents, discovered beneath a flagstone in the store rooms, is ... curious. A cache, hidden to assist the Crown's agents, or the belongings of agents waylaid because they were not as cautious as our dear Runa."

"These are considerations we must take, for the Crown has supplied precious little, in either directive, or information regarding this keep, or our goals. Preferring instead, to allow us to excercise judgement, and wisdom, in the dispensation of our duty. Do not take the accusations personal, Maester, we seek to ensure, firstly, our safety, and then the safety of the Crown and it's loyal agents." A pause, "And that includes you and yours, does it not?"

OOC: Sorry for the late reply, rolling Insight, with Advantage for Runa's aid, Insight +5, [roll0] for a total of 16.

[Izzarra]

https://media-waterdeep.cursecdn.com/avatars/10/12/636336422983071263.jpeg
Azzalix



After going down to where the others said they found the poison, Azzalix opens her Book of Shadows and begins chanting quietly.

Casting Detect Poison and Disease as a ritual. Let me know when you feel 10 minutes have gone by and I can return to the rest of the party with an answer.

[Holy-hunter]

”Erhh!“ The barbarian grumbles deep and loudly, not amused by the conversation, as he stands up tall. At his full height, he flexes his muscles and looks down on the old man as he moves to tower over him.
Darhsan snatches the wine bottle from the mans hands and bites out the cork spitting it to the ground. He sniffs the opening, taking in the aroma of the liquid and then brings it to his lips and throws back his head to chug a large mouthful.

”Ahhh, not so bad old man.“ he says as a smile erupts across his face. His intimidating demeanour instantly softens and he lets out a slight chuckle.
”Just to be safe, no one else should drink tonight. ‘cept maybe Ash.“ he nods and guestures to her with the bottle.
”And if I don’t wake tomorrow, well...“ he turns and heads for the stairs.
”the world will be a better place.“

With bottle of wine in hand, Darhsan heads to the roof of the lookout to, well lookout.

[gryffydd65]

https://media-waterdeep.cursecdn.com/avatars/10/12/636336422983071263.jpeg
Azzalix



After going down to where the others said they found the poison, Azzalix opens her Book of Shadows and begins chanting quietly.

Casting Detect Poison and Disease as a ritual. Let me know when you feel 10 minutes have gone by and I can return to the rest of the party with an answer.
No poison is found in the basement.

[gryffydd65]

Zand sits down and ladles out stew into three bowls. "Family sit and give grace ." The two ladies sit down immediately and bow. Zand starts his blessing naming the God of Justice (lawful neutral) and ends with the Mother of All (Chaotic Neutral). He starts to eat and then Cara starts and lastly Ash who seems to be looking up at the ceiling when ever Zand is looking down at his bowl.

[gryffydd65]

The family finished their dinner and Cara starts to wash the dishes. Zand makes his way outside towards the barn. Ash heads upstairs.

Ash greets Darhsan. "Can I join you? "

[Holy-hunter]

Darhsan was on the far end of the roof, furtherest from the ladder, and was using the arrow slit to casually relieve himself while still gulping wine when Ash appeared.
Beside him two bows rested on the floor along with a quiver of arrows. Surprisingly the bottle was still yet empty.
”O’course“ He replies in his warm gruff voice, finishing up and turning around to give her that daring devilish grin. He placed down the bottle and notioned towards it, offering it, as he picked up a bow, drew some arrows and moved to the next arrow slit.

”Can you shoot?“ he asks, swiftly drawing, loading and releasing an arrow at an unknown target somewhere outside.

[Izzarra]

https://media-waterdeep.cursecdn.com/avatars/10/12/636336422983071263.jpeg
Azzalix



After spending several minutes on her spell and finding no poison Azzalix returns to the dining area and reports to the rest of the group.
"I found no poison, only alcohol."

[gryffydd65]

Darhsan was on the far end of the roof, furtherest from the ladder, and was using the arrow slit to casually relieve himself while still gulping wine when Ash appeared.
Beside him two bows rested on the floor along with a quiver of arrows. Surprisingly the bottle was still yet empty.
”O’course“ He replies in his warm gruff voice, finishing up and turning around to give her that daring devilish grin. He placed down the bottle and notioned towards it, offering it, as he picked up a bow, drew some arrows and moved to the next arrow slit.

”Can you shoot?“ he asks, swiftly drawing, loading and releasing an arrow at an unknown target somewhere outside.
Ash moves closer and gets in front of the arrow slit. Can you hit any target? she says a few words and gestures while holding something in her hand . Four glowing balls of light can be seen 120 feet away on the left side of the mountain.

[NontheistCleric]

https://i.ibb.co/hWHkNgp/Runa.png
Runa (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2280099)
AC: 16 | HP: 25 of 25
Passive Perception: 12 | Passive Insight: 12
Conditions: —

Runa doesn't eat. After all, it would be unwise to accept food from people who might be poisoners.

"Really?" she says when Azzalix makes her report. "Well, that's a little embarrassing." Her eyes flick briefly to Cara, still washing the dishes. "You're sure there was no poison at all?"

[HelixIconix]

As the others filter out of the room, Kier decides to get up and find a quiet spot to perform a ritual of his own. He conjures an unseen servant, and gives it the task of tidying up around him; wherever he goes, dirt is dispersed from the floor, furniture, rugs, and drapes, plus any cleaning supplies (carpet soap, scrubbing brush, etc.) or simple tools (hammer and nails, wrench, etc.) that were potentially left out by the caretakers are placed into proper storage.
A fort is hard to maintain with so few people, and therefore in order to maintain important upkeep tasks they likely had to give up some of the lesser day-to-day chores like dusting for their own safety -- after all, masonry gets cracked by rain and weathered by wind, and it doesn't repair itself.

[Holy-hunter]

Ash moves closer and gets in front of the arrow slit. Can you hit any target? she says a few words and gestures while holding something in her hand . Four glowing balls of light can be seen 120 feet away on the left side of the mountain.

Darhsan draws the bow and takes aim, then, lowers it.
”Maybe I can, maybe I can’t. What’s in it for me if I do hit your little magic lights?” he asks.

[Izzarra]

https://media-waterdeep.cursecdn.com/avatars/10/12/636336422983071263.jpeg
Azzalix



"There was no poison in the rooms you mentioned. I found some ingredients that can be used to make poisons stored up here with the medical supplies. They were unlabeled."

[gryffydd65]

Darhsan draws the bow and takes aim, then, lowers it.
”Maybe I can, maybe I can’t. What’s in it for me if I do hit your little magic lights?” he asks.

A kiss for each one. she says with a flirty smile.

[gryffydd65]

Zand returns from the barn. The horses are fed and groomed. Tomorrow we need to remove any cacti from dry ravine. he looks at all present in the kitchen. Where is Ash?