The Dark Ages - Southern Seas - Act 8 - Skalfier - Fall 11, 56AD
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The day is a crisp cool day, and the snow/rain that fell is turning to just water and puddles. The crowd around the Merchants Guild is moving with the day, everyone concentrating on their business. Harvest time is a busy time.
For those of you who are going to the Golden Coach:
The guards let you into the inn, upon inspecting your letters carefully. The Innkeeper recognizes GRAIAN and ATACIUS.
"It is a pleasure to see you again, good s'ahrs. How can I be of service ta ye?"
GRAIAN: "Well now fortune has smiled at me I would like to rent a room. Do you happen to know when the next break is scheduled for the session?"
"Of course, s'ahr, th' rate still the same. Tenday's advance required. One gold crown a day for room 'n meal provided, 'course. Iffin ye wantin' two tendays, that be 18 gold crowns 'stead o'twenty. Will ye sahrvant be stayin' wi' ye?" The innkeeper slides the register over to you and has a dipped quill in hand.
"Th' elves, they be takin' they meal in meeting." the Innkeeper answers. "Iffin ye want, ye may knock ta enter." He waits for you to sign your name and pen it. Once finished, he'll hand you a room key, which is for the 3rd floor, first room North.
GRAIAN: "Thank you, I am looking into alternative arrangements for him at the moment, of course I do expect he has free access to come and go". With that he signs the register, hands over the 10 gold crowns and takes the key. Turning to Atacius "Come, we can discuss arrangements for the next day or so". With that he heads through the door to the bar area.
ATACIUS: "Certainly my Lord." he replies with a bow and follows.
The bar is mostly empty. The innkeeper's wife is tending to the bar, filling the room at times with a loud, braying laugh as she talks to one of the wait staff. Two parties of women are gathered around several tables, eating and chatting.
Your main meal, at dinnertime, comes with the room. A lunch, made of meats, bread and soup, along with a strong tea or beer, costs two silver coins.
GRAIAN: Ordering lunch for the two of them he turns to Atacius, "While we are here do you need to see your friend? Now I have a room and you have the papers there should be relative free access for you, but I am sure there will be some raised eyebrows if you are often here on your own. After lunch I will spend some time in the meeting to see what they are discussing, we could meet later at the Merchant's Guild, say at afternoon eight bells".
ATACIUS: "I'll try to meet him, yes. And I will try also not to get into trouble. We'll meet later at the Guild and see if they others found anything suitable to stay."
Lunch is soon served and in a bit, you two are the only ones left in the bar, as the women leave.
Once finished, ATACIUS heads over to the bartender to have a word with her. You may make your way to the door where the elves are meeting and knock to enter. An elf in official robes opens the door brusquely, then sees you and nods.
"Apologies, brother, we didn't know more were coming." he says in elven. "What clan do you represent?"
GRAIAN: Nodding in acknowledgement, "Good afternnon, I am from the clan Meliamne, I have no vote but have been invited to join in and listen to the discussions"
"Ah, well met and welcome, brother! You may join the outer ring with the other non-voting ships." The elf opens the door wider and you see a table with a dozen elves gathered, and a ring of outer chairs, half filled. There are many maps, books, scrolls and other materials scattered on the table and around the room, with several elves standing, arguing, and others sitting and reading.
The elf who has opened the door straightens up and intones. "May you lend your wisdom and insight so that we may all find our Home." He then drops to a whisper. "As you are new, I will summarize where we are at. The intent at first had been to organize an expedition to the deserted human city of Ramathia. It was said that some of the earliest records of human and elf relations were kept there. However, a new development has occurred, a movement within some of the ships represented here to declare war on the humans! It's become an almost even split now. And apparently we are not the only Conclave to be considering such an action, as two other Conclaves on the northern and southern coasts of the land are also deadlocked on this issue. The past few weeks have seen us make no progress. Finding records around this forsaken land has been impossible, with the loss of an expedition to a land-based library, pirates and bandits surround us and we argue on the course of action!"
The elf sighs and motions to a seat. "So please, join us. If you have a voting ship that you are aligned with, please let them know you are here."
GRAIAN: Despite the many questions forming in his head, he takes a seat in the outer ring and tries to follow the argument going on at the table.
After listening for a couple of hours, you get the jist of what the argument is about. Two of the most powerful ships/clans represented at the Conclave in Skalfier are disagreeing on the best course of action. The Foamfollower clan wishes to continue the original purpose of the Conclave, to see about mounting an expedition to Ramathia to seek information on the elves history. The Seadreamers, on the other hand, feel that the Home is well and truly lost and that for now, elves must consolidate their power and their ability to survive, especially in light of the Doom. They wish to conquer the "weakened human filth" and establish a "true order to things." It is roughly an even split between the doves and hawks.
GRAIAN: A little concerned he thinks this is not going to be resolved quickly and there is some time to act. Perhaps he and the group can assist in the mission to Ramathia and help avert what would be a useless and bloody war between Elves and Men, leaving the world open for Orcs an the rest of their kind. He moves to where the Foamfollower clan is seated and introduces himself, "Brothers, I am Graian second son of the family of Meliamne. I have travelled from the Eastern Shores over the mountains to join the Conclave. Unfortunately I do not have a ship but after hearing the recent discussion I would like to align myself with you as I believe you are right in pursuing the expedition to Ramathia. War with Men would be foolish. "
The elf's eyes turn from weary to bright and he smiles.
"Welcome Graian. I am Shaiman, Captain's Husband and currently the speaker for the Foamfollower. Your voice is a new one and well met. Would that more of the elves recently come to Conclave see it as foolish, but most of the newcomers seem to be of the mind of the Seadreamers. Their fatigue and despair is understandable, but despair is not the best place to make decisions from."
"If only I had more proof of elven writings and information in Ramathia, I could perhaps sway enough to vote on the expedition, but our searches around this countryside have turned up little, and there is not enough support to overcome the Seadreamers without some hope that such an expensive and possibly dangerous expedition would be worth it."
GRAIAN: "I understand the weariness many feel we have been searching too long, but this would not help us create a new home.I have friends here, we may be able to help a little, I will talk to them. What knowledge do we posess of Ramathian?"
"Just what is commonly known to all, the former layout of the city and its landmarks, some accounts of the final days of those living in Ramathia as they fled, and vague hints of what might have been in the library. It is that library that we seek. The Merchants Guild in Skalfier has little more on Ramathia. We had sent a team of elves to seek out a supposed library and school to the north, a day or so's walk, but we did not ever hear back and there is resistance to sending another group out there. I had hoped that this library might give us hints that there were ancient Elven documents contained there. That would be enough to prove to the Conclave that an expedition is worth the risk."
GRAIAN: "I am meeting my friends at the Guild later I will find out more then. I believe we will be able to help but it may take some time. I cannot judge when any decision will be made here but I trust you will do all you can to stall any progress towards war."
Shaiman nods and sighs. "If you have friends who'd be willing to help, I would go soon. I don't know how much longer I can hold out against the Seadreamers. They make very emotional arguments and the longer we wait, the more their paranoia becomes the Order of the Day."
GRAIAN: "I will seek you out when I return later" with that Graian takes his leave of Shaiman and heads to the Merchants Guild to meet the others.
ATACIUS, the bartender looks a bit more happy as she makes the gold crown vanish. "Gent by the name of Tarn, you say? Could be, not too many humans or non-elves these days. Most of them don't tip and they all drink that swill that the elves love." She shudders.
"Tarn, he keeps to himself, but tips well and is nice enough. He comes and goes."
ATACIUS: "Thank you for your time." he replies with a smile. With that he leaves the bar and goes upstairs and look for Tarn's room (2nd floor, 3rd room West) and, if there's nobody around, listen quietly at the door.
Unfortunately, your luck is not with you, as right now, the rooms on those floors are being tended to by the housekeeping staff.
ATACIUS: How many are they (the housekeeping staff)? Do they use a copy of the key to get in or a single masterkey?
There are two. They have rings with several keys on it, so it is hard to tell if they are using separate keys or the same one for all doors. They glance at you curiously standing there, and one reflexively puts his hand on his trouser's pocket.
ATACIUS approaches the staff, toying with a gold coin between his fingers. "Good morning. Do you know if the passenger of the 3rd room West is in his room?"
"That be a pretty coin ye carry, m'lord." the woman working with the man says. He nods. "Be it that ye let it slip and we be happy to speak w'ye."
ATACIUS: "I'm all ears." he says giving the coin to the woman. Do they have a cart or something? if so, does it has any bars of soap by chance?
They are carrying baskets and have brooms in hand. There is a rough sack with what appears to be fresh linens in it.
"Well, we ain't been to cleanin' that room yet, m'lord." the woman answers. "Don't rightly know if he's there or not. He's one that comes and goes at all hours."
ATACIUS: "Yeah, he comes and goes, that I already know. Well, maybe it's time to clean his room...", he says showing another gold crown.
The two glance at each other. The man shrugs and hands his broom to Atacius with one hand while taking the coin with the other. He pulls out a keyring and selects a key, handing it and the keyring to ATACIUS. He grins at the woman and says "Time fer a drink o' water!" and goes down the stairs. The woman coughs loudly, sniffles, wipes her nose and then turns away from ATACIUS.
Does the key has any mark that identifies it as belonging to that room? Are there candles in the corridors?
Yes, it says "2F3W" on it. The curtains are opened on the hallway windows, letting in light from outside. There are sconces for candles, the candles are not lit.
ATACIUS will get one of the candles and make a print of the key. Then pocket the candle and clean the key. After that he'll quietly move to the 2F3W door and listen.
Just to be clear, the candles are not lit, and not that soft. So let's do a chance, small one, but a chance that the candle crumbles. I'm assuming you want to do this quickly. The woman will see what you're doing. Roll me a d100 and tell me what you get.
Are you going to be listening as normal (which anyone can do, doesn't require a roll) or trying to hear in extraordinary fashion - requiring your hearing check?
Oh, she's still there. Failed reading comprehension check.
"Excuse me ma'am but did you suddenly catched a cold or was that some kind of warning?" he whispers.
She sniffs. "Always been, this season in the past... same thing, the nose runs. Why you ask?" she says in a low tone back.
ATACIUS: "Nevermind..." he says as he tosses her the keyring and walks away, downstairs and out of the Golden Coach.
"Suit y'self, m'lord..." she says as she catches the ring of keys.
For those of you looking for spaces to rent/buy:
Upon asking around, you are directed back into the Merchants Guild to speak with a clerk who manages the listings of rooms/buildings for sale or lease. He is happy to show you either, he merely wants to know what you are looking for.
CALLIN will head back to the Merchants Guild to find out about pricing for rooms for sale or lease. THe question is cost really. Also perhaps there is a building with enough rooms for our group we can all go in together on?
TAKASHI will accompany CALLIN to the merchant's guild as well.
TAKASHI: "I have no real idea how much it would cost to purchase or rent in a city such as this. Growing up in a yurt will do that to you..."
CALLIN: "Nor do I. I spent most of my time in the church after leaving my parents. This will be an experience."
TAKASHI grins as he speaks -
TAKASHI: "Let us hope that our work for the guild has earned us some good will. I would prefer to not be hoodwinked in our first major purchase here in Skalfier."
CALLIN: "Indeed! May the Light shine upon us in our dealings"
"Are you looking for individual dwellings or for a group? Business or living? Furnished or not? Interested in something needing work, or something ready to live in now?" the clerk inquires.
CALLIN: lookt to TAKASHI "I have never been afraid of getting my hands dirty. Would you be willing to help fix up a group dwelling?"
TAKASHI: "I am sure it can't be much worse than a yurt..."
The clerk says "You may wait here, or return in a couple of hours, searching the listings may take awhile" and goes off. You notice that other people come with questions, which are answered, or they receive papers. They slide coins over to the clerks who pocket them.
TAKASHI: "Were we supposed to pay the clerk? Hmm. Perhaps a little silver will accelerate the process."
TAKASHI will wait until the clerk that spoke with them returns, and offer 2 silver, "as we know this is a lot of paperwork for your troubles."
The clerk had already left by the time you noticed the other people. You can wait at the Merchants Guild, there are benches and chairs available in the main hall. There are also a couple of rooms with clerks putting papers on the wall, removing other papers and what appears to be people reading them intently.
TAKASHI: "Let's go take a look at the boards over there and see if there is anything interesting going on around here. It beats sitting on these wooden benches."
CALLIN: "I agree!" and with that Callin will head over and look at the papers on the wall.
Perusing the board are many ads for ordinary jobs - for craftsmen, labor, offers for jobs, those seeking to sell items.
Three ads are under the area of adventurers:
Ad for adventurers - employer is seeking someone to fetch something for them from the ruins of a village lost twenty years ago. Those taking this job are welcome to recovery of other items of value. (Former hamlet of Careb's Corner)
Ad for adventurers - missing fishermen, widows seek their return or news of their fate.
Ad for adventurers - Local sage seeks adventurers to explore an exciting location in the wastes. Fair division of treasure, chance to discover new exciting history of Skalfier and Ramathia!
A bored clerk stands at a table, answering questions. Sometimes, he will consult his book and give directions to the job seeker or employer on what to do when they are interested in an ad.
TAKASHI: "Do any of those adventuring ads interest you, CALLIN? The hamlet of Careb's Corner and a morning widow could both be interesting quests. I wonder if Notebana is the one who posted the ad regarding Skalfier and Ramathia? All tempting, to say the least..."
CALLIN: "I agree they all look interesting. I do wonder however if we mgiht be too heavy to set foot at sea, Callin says glancing down at his armor. Perhaps the ruins of a village lost.... I would like to know how someone goes about losing a village in the first place"
TAKASHI will approach the clerk at the table.
TAKASHI: "Good day. What can you tell us about the Ad for adventurers requesting something from the ruins of a village lost 20 years ago?"
The clerk nods. "Yes, that one gets several inquiries a tenday, but so far, no takers that I'm aware of. It's been up for almost a year. The old man, a silver craftsman living in the Westedge by the name of Chemor, can tell you more. Rumor has it, he wants folks to go up to some old abandoned village close to Bloody Fist territory. That's probably why the ad is still up."
TAKASHI: "Thank you very much for your assistance. What can you tell us about these other two adventuring opportunities? The missing fisherman and the local sage? That wouldn't happen to be Notebana, would it?"
"Aye, the widows Kayschu and Kaywhit, they lost their husbands mid-Summer. Most of us think it was pirates, but the widows want to know for sure. And the sage, aye, that be the littleling. Fiesty, curious, that one. He got some adventurers in the spring and they found some tomb, but then those ones ... they vanished. Tongues wag, so nobody wants to take another job wi' him."
TAKASHI: "Thank you very much for your assistance!"
With that, TAKASHI will sit down and wait for the other clerk to return from his research.
About an hour of waiting and the clerk comes back with a thick sheaf of papers.
"There are many properties available for groups and families to live in, both in and around Skalfier. Some are more basic and fewer amenities than others, others are more ready to live in. Some reflect a great deal of investment by the previous owners, some are abandoned land that the Town Council has claimed in the name of the Baron and is willing to sell."
The sheaf of papers lists off many properties, more than thirty. The first two:
- Former manor fallen on hard times and abandoned by the owners. Currently owned by the Town. Needs a great deal of work. Outside of city walls to the northeast by a quarter day's walk. 4,000 gold crowns ownership, 100 gold crowns/year lease.
- Small house within city walls, bare, available immediately, located in Dawnsedge. 50 gold crowns/year lease.
The latter is unusual for its low price. Most houses seem to be in the 60-75 gold crown range for a year's lease.
The clerk looks expectantly at you...
CALLIN looks to TAKASHI. "Interesting. The manor sounds interesting, but I do favor the idea of being within the City walls." Callin then turns his attention to the clerk, dropping 2 silver on the desk. "Why is the home in Dawnsedge so low priced?"
TAKASHI nods in agreement with CALLIN.
TAKASHI: "Perhaps when we find our fortune, that manor would be a good project to tackle. However, for the time being I also would prefer to stay within the confines of the city. And 50 gold is well within our means!"
The clerk shrugs. "Let me see... hmm... 5th row Northward, 20th east. Probably a rough place and hard to keep secure. Dawnsedge is a rough part of town. You could go see the owner, he's the tavern keeper of the Captains Quarters in the docks area on Portside street. Doc Tanglin's his name."
TAKASHI: "Thanks very much for your help this day, friend. We'll speak with Doc Tanglin and see if this property will fit our needs."
TAKASHI will speak quietly with CALLIN, as they turn away from the clerk at the desk.
TAKASHI: "Now, where are the others? They should be arriving soon, I hope. We have many options on what to do next, and I am eager to see what they have found out in their daya here in Skalfier as well."
CALLIN: "I would hope the arrive soon. weren't they heading to the inn? Perhaps we could send them a message to meet us at the Captain's Quarters"
TAKASHI: "Perhaps... but wait! Here they are now..."
For those of you doing something else...
What would you like to do?
It is now late afternoon and the sun hangs low to the west. The four of you are together again at the Merchant's Guild. The evening call to prayers is starting to happen as the deacons of Light walk around the town, bidding all to come pray.
CALLIN: "I will be making my way to the Temple for prayer if any of you wish to join me. Shall we meet at the Captain's Quarters after?"
GRAIAN: "Yes, I have a lot to tell you all. I will spend some time here to gather more information, this Ramathia place appears to important."
TAKASHI: "That sounds like a plan, CALLIN. We will see you at the Captain's Quarters soon. I'll let them know about the adventuring opportunities we have found so far, and also tell them about the potential lease."
GRAIAN: Looking around "There is a lot of activity here, I am wondering if these clerks could help me find some information about Ramathia, apparently the Guild has some? I will be back." Graian heads towards one of the clerks.
While GRAIAN waits in line to speak with a clerk, TAKASHI will tell both ATACIUS and GRAIAN about the three adventuring possibilities (see above or on my character sheet), as well as the property in the rough and tumble Dawnsedge neighborhood.
GRAIAN: After Takashi finishes cathing them up he tells them about the fight within the conclave, stressing the disaster if there was a war between Elves and Man. "I think a trip to Ramathia would be in order, we would have support from the Foamfollowers, they may even provide some men. Atacius maybe Notebana would provide some help."
ATACIUS: "Could be. My guess is if he knows we're going to Ramathia, he'll say we'll have better chances if we investigate this location in the Wastes. Which, I suspect, is also Apsuna's nest. Apsuna mentiones Men and Elves searching his nest, remember? Since we are in good terms with the bird, I say we investigate that place first.
I undestand the downside of a war between Men and Elves, and I'm willing to help you GRAIAN, but I rather go to Ramathia with as much information as possible."
Early Evening - The Temple of the Light
The sun is setting beyond the hills and distant mountains, but the low light gleams through crystal glass at the top of the central dome of the Temple. Evening prayers are lightly attended this evening and consist mainly of several deacons and apprentices singing chants while people kneel around the central pool. A couple of the faithful approach one of the deacons, a woman is in obvious pain and illness. The woman accompanying her hands coins to the deacon, who waves to another priest. That priest says a blessing and prayer which you recognize as the "Call for Intercession for the Sick" and in a few moments, the woman looks much better.
This all takes place over an hour of time. You don't see Brianinov, Deneb or Otollum make an appearance, although several of the deacons look at you curiously with your holy symbol obviously displayed.
At the end of prayers, several men enter the temple who look very much out of place. Rough looking thugs with weapons, each with a necklace of silver with the symbol of the Light surrounded by a circle, enter and stroll over to the door that leads to the back chambers. It's obvious that the deacons are uncomfortable when they enter. They open the door and enter the back rooms.
(If you accompany Callin to the temple, actions go here.)
CALLIN: will head to some of the deacons that looked uncomfortable. "Hello there Deacon's. I am Callin, I am new to the area, it is a pleasure to meet you." Then in a lower tone. "Who are those men you so obviously fear? And what are they doing here?" CALLIN has a feeling these are the so called Lightbringers...but it is always good to confirm.
The deacons smile and introduce themselves - Roberto and Anton. They are delighted to meet you. "We've heard about you from Brianinov. He says you're a wonderful cleric of the Light, it's good to meet you!"
They frown at the door the toughs entered.
"Those thugs? Those are the so-called Lightbringers. Leg-breakers, if you ask me!" Roberto sniffs, but Anton shushes him. "Hush, friend! If word gets back... you'll end up like Kenshu, who looked like he took on a trio of drunken sailors!"
CALLIN places his hands on Roberto and Antons shoulders in a reasuring fashion. "Keep the faith in the Light. Darkness does indeed lurk in the shadows and it can be frightening, but remember the Light will shatter the darkness. Keep your wits about you. It will come." Callin glances back at the door and shakes his head sadly. "It is a sad time when men of virtue turn to such means to justify their cause. But the Light will shine down upon them and reveal their nature. Be patient, be strong" CALLIN then ponders. "Where is this Kenshu you speak of? Is there a chance I might meet him?"
Roberto's face brightens. "Thank you, Callin... those are the first cheerful words we've heard in weeks. The Light shine on your path always."
Anton sighs at Callin's question. "He left the Temple. I think he might have returned to his family's home in Northill, the neighborhood to the north of the old Walled City of Skalfier, but he also had a sweetheart tailor who lived in Westedge. Guy by the name of ... Rafael, I think. After the beating he got... and don't tell me it was anything but a beating! I am not surprised he left."
CALLIN: "Thank you both, may the Light brighten your path, and your hearts. I will see if I can find him. Thank You!" and with that Callin will head to rejoin his friends with this new information.
(Timing note: You can/will meet up after they're done at the library.)
(would it make sense to take this time to head to Westedge? If I have time I would do that, if not I would head back to meet my friends)
90 minutes has passed since you left your friends at the Guild hall. They are only 10 minutes into that period of time, and it's hard telling if you'd have time or not before they're done at the Guild, it depends on how long they take. I'd suggest waiting for any specific action, aside from going to where you all decided to meet, only because the time you take may put you far into the evening, and they are still in early evening. let me know if that doesn't make sense?
Yup I will head to the meeting place and wait for my friends. :)
Early evening - The Merchants Guild
The clerk answers the question with a bored monotone. "Those wanting to use our library must be a Guild member or sponsored or pay the entrance fee of half a crown."
"So, my friends, welcome to the Guild Library of Skalfier. Now, you said you were looking for information on Ramathia. We have general historical information and maps, we have some of the old shipping records from the founding of Skalfier to the present, we have various personal collections from people in Ramathia left here, or people in Skalfier who went to Ramathia left their writings here. Quite a bit of mundane information."
(If you want to follow Graian and investigate information regarding Ramathia, post actions here.)
TAKASHI, not being the most studied of individuals, will accompany GRAIAN in his studies. If nothing else, he could perhaps help him look for information.
ATACIUS will go with GRAIAN and TAKASHI.
GRAIAN: Pulling out some coins, "To save time I will pay the entrance fee, thank you."
The clerk eyes all three of you. "1 gold 5 silver" he says in a singsong voice and accepts GRAIAN's coins. He then points to the stairs. "Fourth floor, a librarian will greet you." He hands GRAIAN three wood discs.
After ascending the stairs, you come to a set of doors with one woman and two men, all looking bored, sitting in chairs. They all jump up as you approach, each of them talking over the other.
"Welcome to the library!" they all say and then each, again talking over the other, ask if you require assistance.
GRAIAN: Obviously the library was not used by many people.... speaking to all three of them "I am researching Ramathia and would like to see what information is held in the library that would help me."
All three clerks' eyes widen at Graian's statement and they excitedly begin to talk over each other.
"Ramathia! Are you part of the elves who want to go there? We had a couple of visitors after the Conclave started. Of course we know about Ramathia, that's why Skalfier was built..."
"Oh Ramathia, that's the biggest pirate haven ever. Nobody goes there, but it was a wonderful place. Very dangerous now.."
"ENOUGH!" the woman bellows at the two men and they clamp their mouths shut.
"You two twits are going to drive them off and then what will the Master say?!" she snaps and she then turns back to Graian with a smile.
"Yes, Sir Elf, we have records on Ramathia and old texts on the city itself. I don't know that we have an index to their library, as it was the largest aside from the library in the King's City. Please come in and I (she shoots a glare to the two men) will assist you."
She extends her hands for the disks while another hand pulls a huge key from under her tunic. She looks at all three carefully, hands them to one of the other men and turns to the door. To Graian's trained eye and Atacius's observant eye, the key seems to glow with an arcane power for the briefest of moments as it touches the lock. She pushes it in, twists it back and forth in what appears to be a deliberate manner. The sounds of bolts and gears comes from behind the door and eventually it seems to loosen.
"If you'll follow me, gentlemen." she says with a smile and opens the door.
TAKASHI boogles at the sounds that emenate from the door as it slowly opens.
TAKASHI: "Most interesting, indeed."
GRAIAN: Looking questioningly at Atacius he replies "Thank you Ma'am, we truly appreciate your help and guidance. I see the library is well protected."
ATACIUS returns the look with a slight nod. "Ma'am, do you know when was the last expedition from here that made it back? Maybe there's someone in town we can speak to."
Beyond the door is a small antechamber, just barely big enough for the four of you. As you enter, GRAIAN and ATACIUS feel a distinct difference in the air. GRAIAN would recognize it as an arcane energy in this small room. There is a small door opposite the large vault-like door, looks very ordinary.
The woman hands you your discs back.
"Keep these on you at all times. If you lose them or drop them... the results could be unpleasant." she explains. "Oh, and my name is Kellina. Now, just a moment."
She reaches out and shuts the vault door behind you. A candle flickers into being lit, casting a very dim glow into the room. She then takes a different key, unlocks the smaller door and opens it.
Beyond is a heaven for a bibliophile. The ceiling is probably twelve feet high, and there are shelves along the walls and interspersed around the room that are crammed full of books, ledgers, scrolls, papers, folios, journals and all sorts of loosely bound and tightly bound books. The smell is a thick musty odor. There are reading chairs and tables spread out in the middle. Crystals in the ceiling let the sunlight in, and enclosed globes of radiant light act as lamps and lightsources for the tables and chairs. A man sits at one table, a woman sits at another, both accompanied by a librarian. One is setting several scrolls in front of the woman and murmuring to her.
ATACIUS: "Ohhhh..."
TAKASHI is stunned by the magnificense of the room, and the sum total of all knowledge contained in the shelves and shelves of books.
She listens to your questions.
To GRAIAN: "Yes, it is. The Guild recognizes that the true currency of a civilized society is knowledge and information. Some is here. If you can imagine many buildings containing this same library, that was the library of Ramathia. Truly a wonderful thing. I would give so much to see it. But yes, the library is well protected." she sighs.
To ATACIUS: "Not since the Doom, I'm afraid. There were refugees that made it back to the mainland after the volcano erupted next to Ramathia, but aside from a few foolish fishermen who sailed within visual view of the island, nobody has been brave enough to fight the monsters and pirates to get there. The King and Marshalls have had their attention to here, and the Guild hasn't seen need to spend the money to go back."
GRAIAN: Looking around the room, he determines that he must come back and spend many hours reading and learning in this great room. "Kellina, I am interested in understanding more about the history of the island, what it used to be like to live there. Also you mention monsters and pirates, what knowledge is there of them?. I would happily spend many an hour in this place researching, but at this time I would appreciate some guidance on finding the information quickly."
She nods and smiles.
"Of course, Sir Elf. There are many treatsie's and biographical accounts that share what it was like to live in Ramathia. Were you looking for something closer to the Doom, or further back in history? We have few of the more older texts, but a great many of more recent writings."
She thinks for a moment. "There was only the one account, of a wrecked ship that was found further up the coast at Rainbow Point. I believe Notebana, a littleling scholar and sage who lives here in Skalfier, wrote the account. I can locate that one right away, Sir Elf, if you wish. Just let me know about your history preferences and I'll find both."
TAKASHI: "Ah yes, we have had the pleasure of meeting Notebana very recently ourselves. Perhaps that would be a good place to start."
ATACIUS: "Any maps of the area surrounding Skalfier, from the coast to the Keep? What about of Ramathia?"
"Oh, aye, Master... Littleling." she answers. "Many different maps of the surrounding area, and of Ramathia, at least as it stood prior to the Doom. What exactly were you interested in seeing?"
ATACIUS: "I'm looking for the location of former settlements in the near lands. As for Ramathia, it would be nice to know what lays in the surrounding waters."
GRAIAN: "I am interested in the shipwreck account and pre Doom history woould be a good starting point I think. thank you."
She smiles. "Of course! Let me see what I can find to start you off with." and she goes running off.
The clerk darts from shelf to shelf, flipping through papers, opening books, dismissing a couple, holding onto a few and depositing them in front of you. She finishes up with two maps.
"I have brought you the book written by Sage Notebana on 'Various Accounts of Mysteries Surrounding the Skalfier Point." she says. "It has the story of the fishermen who saw Ramathia after the Doom."
"I've also brought you a book that is a diary of life in Ramathia, a merchant who liked to write about himself."
"Finally, here is a popular map of Ramathia, that was widely reproduced. It's basic, but gives you the layout of the city and island. I have the most recent map and survey of Skalfier and surrounding lands, but it is 56 years out of date, it was completed only tendays before the Doom. None have updated it since."
She takes a deep breath. "So, is there anything else I can get you?"
GRAIAN: "Thank you Kellina, I think this will keep us busy for a little while. Is this the only copy of the map, we may be travelling the area somewhat and could update it as we go?"
Kellina frowns. "Unfortunately, it is the only copy. A copy could be scribed for 10 gold, it would take halften to finish."
GRAIAN: "Hmm a little steep given it may be wrong and we will be updating it for the Guild."
TAKASHI: "Perhaps we could make a rough sketch of the map, enough to navigate by and note anything important?"
"True." Kellina answers. "But I have no doubt you'd be rewarded for updates." She smiles. "I'd love... I mean, we'd love for you to come back and help us get the best information possible!"
This is the map that Kellina has found for you of Skalfier and the areas surrounding (as it was recorded prior to the Doom)
Here is the map of Ramathia - it looks, for lack of other description, like a tourist or visitor map.
GRAIAN: Looking at the map of Skalfier "Let's see when we were attacked it was South of the Inn and we met Athuna before that and his nest was North West in ruined buildings, close by, maybe Athenum?" he asks the others. "Takashi, I agree we just need a roough sketch of this to guide us."
TAKASHI: "Perhaps we could first journey to Meadow Watch, and once investigated, we could make our way from that area to the places further out, such as Athenum.
Kellina, do you know anything about these settlements marked on the map around Skalfier?"
ATACIUS: "Apsuna's nest is either in Meadow Watch or Athenum, most probably the last one. It wouldn't hurt took pass by Meadow Watch first on our way to Athenum. As for the Orcs my bet is they are to the East, either this unnamed tower (points in the map) or Dawn's Keep.", he says to his friends.
Speaking to Kellina, "Do you know if there was a library also in Athenum?"
"If you'll give me a bit of time, I can tell you what has been written about Athenum." Kellina answers. "In the meantime, if you have paper and ink available (or wish to purchase it...), you may make a copy of these maps." With that, she goes off and starts pulling out books and reading.
The light from the Sun coming through ceiling crystals is dimming quickly as Kellina finally returns.
"OK, it was an odd reference, but I finally found a scrap of something written. It seems that Athenum might have been owned by the old Mage's Guild before the Shriving!" she exclaims excitedly. She passes the old book to you, which is not in good shape. You can barely make out the writing...
"... Grand Master F'shal hosted a symposium on the efficacies of hostile magicks versus more passive magicks. The symposium, held at Mage Shalesh's new library located north of Skalfier, featured some of Shalesh's apprentices demonstrating several of his newer techniques. Shalesh has been known to dabble into more dark magicks thank F'shal is comfortable with, but it was an impressive demonstration, and more impressive were the number of tomes located at this "Athenum". Skalfier, the port city to Ramathia, has never been known as a hub of magickal knowledge, that belonging to the Diamond City of Irecia, and the Kingdom Center, but Shalesh has clearly established a fascinating repository of knowledge. I will be returning to investigate some of his new directions ..."
"And with that, gentlemen, I must inform you that the library is closing." Kellina says. "If you want to come back to finish your copies of maps, I'd be happy to keep them accessible. Thank you for such a wonderful afternoon of research!"
TAKASHI: "You have been most helpful, Kellina. Thank you very much."
TAKASHI (to others): "I bet that Athenum is the nesting area Apsuna spoke of!"
GRAIAN: "Yes, thank you Kellina, this has been most enlightening, I am sure we will be back to look through the other information you found earlier on Ramathia." turning, "Takashi, Atacius I think it is time to go and meet Callin, we have much to discuss."
ATACIUS: "You've been most helpful Kellina, thanks. Should we find any book, tome or scroll in our endeavors, we'll gladly bring it to the Guild, knowing they'll be taken care by such an enthusiast as yourself." he tells her. "I think I'd like a copy of the Skalfier map scribed. How much you said it was?, he adds with a smile.
Then to his friends, "Agreed, Takashi, that's what I think. Yes Graian, let's go find Callin and tell him of our findings."
"Ten gold." she says, blushing at your words. "But... I'll make sure it's done in four days, instead of five! Lazy sluggards... " she grins.
Fall 11, Early Evening - Skalfier
"THREE BELLS LAST DOG!" bellows a town guard as you find yourself on Dockside Street in the harbor neighborhood of Skalfier. Warehouses, fisheries and other buildings line the two streets of the harbor, wood and brick buildings built right next to each other. It almost feels claustrophobic. Sailors, fishermen and women, porters and dock workers are making their way out of the harbor area or milling about at the taverns that are found mainly at the ends of the streets. That is where you are headed, to the Captain's Quarters which lies at the eastern end of Portside Street, which is right next to the actual docks and ship slips. There are some taverns to either side, with a more rough looking crowd entering than what is going into your destination.
The two bouncers standing outside the doors to the Captain's Quarter warn you to keep your weapons in their sheaths or you'd find yourself floating in the waters. You walk in and it's a fairly nice looking inn for the area. Many tables and stools are around and beyond the bar, you can see the Inn keep's desk and stairs leading up into the building. The crowd is a good one, and the general discussion you pick up is the excitement of most fishermen for the "Blues Run." Apparently, the local blue-fish are starting their Fall Season migration to deeper waters and this is the last time most fishing will happen before winter.
ATACIUS sees a familiar face sitting at a table, engaged with a man and a woman in a dice game. CALLIN is here waiting for the rest of you to arrive.
CALLIN: Stands and greets his friends as they arive. "Hail friends. How were your endeavors? Fruitful I hope!"
GRAIAN: "Indeed friend, I feel we had a productive afternoon, yet there is still much to learn."
TAKASHI: "And many decisions need to be made here tonight. GRAIAN, would you like to summarize what was heard at the convocation?"
GRAIAN: Finding a table for them he takes a seat and brings Callin up to date on their finds at the library ".... so based upon the maps we were shown and the knowledge that there was a library at Athenum, owned by the Mage Shalesh, we believe that Aspuna's home is Athenum. I have a rough copy of the maps of the area around Skalifer and of Ramathia, Ataicus is getting more accurate copies made. Pulling out his copies Graian puts them on the table, "Here is Athenum, West of the road before the Inn, so less than a days walk, assuming there is some raltive scale on this. I think if we follow the road North until we reach the valley and then head West we should find it."
CALLIN: "We should attempt to visit Aspuna then! If nothing else, it will be a fun trek. I could use a day of travel"
As you all talk, a man and a younger woman standing behind him are transacting a deal right next to you. At first, it looks like it might go sour, as a man is inspecting what look like harnesses for some sort of animal is skeptical at first, but then smiles and nods. A pouch of gold is exchanged from the man to the sellers. The man selling the harnesses quickly counts the gold and silver coins, nods and moves to another table.
Shortly after, a strange sight occurs. Three men come into the bar area. They appear weary and their pants are caked with mud or dirt. They look like ordinary laborers, but many of patrons, especially sailors, give them dark glares, but don't say anything to them. A table is quickly vacated for them and they order several ales.
ATACIUS: Does the familiar face reacts in some way to those newcomers or just keeps rolling dices?
The familiar person pays no mind and keeps rolling dice.
The man and younger woman finish up their meal quickly and leave.
The three dirty laborers seem to have bottomless pits in their stomachs, consuming ale after ale. The comments grow darker around them and the glares get more angry as the evening progresses and drinking continues. You catch snatches of comments: "damn diggers", "leave the dead in peace and go away", "bad luck seein' 'em before a sail."
ATACIUS motions whoever is serving the tables for another round of drinks. When the drinks arrive, he'll ask about those three are and why they're not liked, adding a silver coin to the drinks for the information.
The waiter, a short stocky man, scurries over and takes your coins. He glances at the three and back at you.
"They be gravediggers and movers o' th' dead, sahr." he says in a thick accent. "Noboddy likes 'em, when they take the dead offo ships or outto houses and moves them to the chambers."
"... and... " he whispers. "It be said that these three be doin' somethin' worse. My friend's cousin's sister's husband's shipmate said that he saw them movin' the dead to a house inna Dawnsedge, instead o' the Temple or chambers." Your coins disappear.
CALLIN scowls at that. "The Dead deserve there rest. I would like to see what these men are doing with the fallin they take to Dawnsedge, if we can catch them in the act."
GRAIAN: "There is no shortage of things to do around here, I would suggest that we start with going to Athenum amd seeing what we can find there, hard to tell the distance but how about an early start in the morning?"
ATACIUS: "I agree on the early start only if we have a suitable breakfast before!"
TAKASHI: "Agreed. There are many avenues that invite us to follow, but we may only take one at a time."