DreamLyrics™ Play-by-Post Forums Fantasy SKT: The Storm King's Thunder 3P - Arrival at Calling Horns

DM

It has been a long four days of travel, but as the sun edges toward the western horizon behind the party, bathing the landscape in a warm, golden light, the eastern horizon slowly transforms from a hint of something, to a shimmering mirage, to finally, definitely a well-maintained settlement.

Well-maintained is a relative term. The village ahead is walled, with 20-foot high stone walls surrounding it, although bits and pieces here and there are showing signs of age. The wall is still serviceable, however.

In the last mile before the city, a road can be seen branching off to the north toward a small, weather-beaten wooden hut with a thatched roof. The road leads to a wide gate entering the village proper, flanked by two armored men one would assume are keeping guard duty.

Jaliera

She sends Whisper aloft to take a closer look at the hut and then to fly over the village,

"Take no risks" she cautions her friend.

<Bern>

He spent some time as they approached, looking things over. The wall looked as if it had been there for some time and he was curious about the hut ... Why it was outside the wall.

Sindar

He continues to ride and observe. It is good to be in someplace new.

Davroar

He looks over the large wall that looks to be surrounding the entire town and says, "That merchant we met outside of Yartar, said Bern's twin was buying weapons here. Guess we should be careful."

Zindra
She simply smiles at all of the precautions being taken but as their guide on this road the scout chimes in.

"Calling Horns is a pretty isolated village out here on the edge of the Evermoors but it should be pretty safe here. Tamalin Zoar built up this town from being just a small roadside inn into what you see here now. Her deputies sees to that protection. Let's stay on their good side. Maybe we can learn something here."

Arus

He stretches his back and casts his eye about, including their six, before recounting their travel plans:

"Overnight at the inn here, then Noanar's Hold tomorrow."

The triton ponders a moment, perhaps wondering how best to enjoy these next two nights of civilisation.

"After that Bern and Davroar depart and we have at least four nights on the road before the rendezvous at Olostin's Hold."

Zhu

She glances at the cottage as they pass it by, musing about the various possible reasons someone would choose, or be forced to, live outside the walls. She can think of several. As they get closer, she frowns. Whoever is in charge of this village's defenses went to all the trouble to build a wall and then allowed the forest to close on that wall to the point any enemy who wanted to could walk right up unseen. It is normal military practice to clear cut the woods to a distance of more than a bowshot. But it is not her village. She'll offer advice if asked, but as Zindra said best not to get on the defenders bad side by criticizing.

She pulls her mount to a halt in front of the Gate Guards and nods politely, waiting for them to wave them thru or ask questions.

DM

Whisper flies ahead to gather whatever intelligence it can with its keen, avian eyes, relaying images to Jaliera. Inside the walls the settlement is large enough to support a hundred-or-so locals, but its position at the junction of Evermoor Way and Jundar's Pass makes it a prime location for travelers passing through to stop, rest, and/or trade. Small tracts of farmland, a small market area, and a few dozen homes are arranged neatly within the walls, strong enough to keep out random wildlife but likely not able to stop any organized attack.

The lone hut outside the walls does indeed exhibit signs of recent occupation. Whisper relays an image of a faint wisp of smoke rising from a crooked chimney, suggesting that a fire burns within although there is no way to discern whether anyone is currently inside or what they might be doing. Around the hut, the owl sees scattered belongings – a pair of well-worn boots left haphazardly on the doorstep, a partially unrolled bedroll propped up against one side of the hut, and a small garden of herbs and vegetables growing nearby, suggesting a somewhat self-sufficient dweller... and one not concerned about his or her safety from whatever the village-dwellers think the walls protect them from.

The pair of guards (or whatever they are) at the gate have definitely noticed the approaching party, but don't appear to be doing anything different, flanking the opening and apparently conversing with each other.

As the party approaches the gates, they are welcomed... if that's a word, by the pair of guards, although it's not clear the two are on the same page as far as what is required of travelers to enter.

The first guard, a burly and bearded fellow clad in chainmail, has a gruff demeanor and a suspicious squint in his eye. With a grumble, he thrusts his hand forward and declares, "Stop there, travelers! If you wish to enter Calling Horns, you'll need to pay the toll. Five gold pieces from each of you, and you may pass!"

His companion, a lanky and wiry guard with a perpetual smirk, responds with a hearty laugh. "Grommund, you old mountain of coin! Always trying to fill your purse! No, no, my dear travelers, you don't have to pay a thing," he says, extending his hand in a friendly greeting. "I'm Seraphim Quickfoot, and all we need is a bit of information. Any news, rumors, or tales from the outside world? That's payment enough for us!"

Grommund grumbles in protest, "Seraphim, you daft fool! We should be collecting the toll!"

Seraphim waves him off dismissively. "Oh, come now, Grommund, where's your sense of adventure? These folks might have some juicy tidbits to share!"

The back-and-forth continues. It seems likely neither would actually stop the party from passing by, although their gold vs. gossip debate is somewhat entertaining, even attracting some young villagers inside the wall to giggle at it. Still, they're not completely ignoring the party and would likely actually respond to any questions raised.

Jaliera

In a quiet voice before they are in hearing of the guards, Jaliera relates what Whisper had seen.

<Bern>

He starts to turn away when the first 'gate keeper' starts talking about an 'entry fee', but turns back when the other speaks. But he is not convinced that he wouldn't be happier ... =and= safer ... sleeping outside the walls. He decides to wait and hear what the others think.

Sindar

He smiles at both men. Not willing to pay 5 pg for the comforts of civilization just to enter. Yet not showing his feelings either.

"My good man, we have tales to tell. Would you prefer them in song tonight at the local inn over a libation or here and now in the street?" He swings his lyre forward clearly willing to entertain the pair of them as is decided.

"I am Sindar a humble wandering minstrel always happy to entertain for my keep," he finishes with a modest bow.

DM

Seraphim smiles at the bard. "Songs tonight at the inn!" he grins, turning to his gruff companion. "C'mon Grommund, how about you settle for an ale? You know Tamalin will appreciate their business."

Grommund huffs, still looking surly. "Fine," he mutters. "You're lucky my friend is here, 's all I gotta say."

Zhu

She listens to the exchange, then tilts her head back over her shoulder. "Might I ask who lives there?", she points to the house outside the walls. "I am curious why they choose to not live in the town with everyone else."

<Bern>

He smiles now that their entry has been accomplished peacefully. He then becomes intrigued with Zhu's question and turns back in anticipation of the answer.

DM

Grommund is quick to answer Zhu. "A witch," he says, adding, "Ain't right in the head. Don't go there, all sorts of magic around that hut."

"Nonsense," Seraphim counters his companion. "Wouldn't hurt a fly, and she's the only one in town if you need something enchanted."

"The blacksmith enchants his weapons," Grommond fires back.

"He buys them from somewhere else," Seraphim replies. "You think he's got magic?"

"I seen people get attacked by.... somethin' approaching that hut," Grommond answers.

"I've seen people walk right up and have tea," Seraphim counters.

Grommund huffs. "I still say she ain't right in the head," he states firmly, crossing his arms across his chest.

"That, my friend, we can agree on," Seraphim answers with a firm nod.

It seems Zhu has her answer. Or two of them, if she can pick which one.

Jaliera

"Is the blacksmith a dwarf?"

It might fit with the rumours she has heard? As to the witch, no reason to visit right now but somehow she expects they will find a reason before too long.

DM

Grommund's stern demeanor breaks and he lets out a hearty laugh. "Are any blacksmiths not..." he begins, before Seraphim, suddenly being the stern one, stops him with a shushing sound.

Seraphim turns to the adventurers, "No more questions unless you're going to answer ours..." he says, then gestures at his companion. "Or you can pay his price if you wanna keep your secrets."

Sindar

"I thought you were coming to the inn and going to hear our stories over the libations?" The half-elf offers a kind smile.

[OOC: Try to persuade if we need to push the guards along. Sindar is not paying them. ]

Jaliera

She feels they did answer the question but she is ready to move on if they can avoid the toll. She smiles at them.

<Bern>

Listening to the 'belligerent' one, he was starting to think seriously about just camping outside the walls. But he was willing to let the others continue ... for now.

Zhu

Her eyebrow rises as the label 'Witch', and she turns her head to look more closely at the cabin. That is definitely a place she plans to visit, but no rush right now. She thanks the guards and flicks her reins to move into the village and towards the indicated inn.

DM

"And stories we will share and you can ask me about dwarf blacksmiths then," Seraphim replies with somewhat of a smirk. "If you don't see him on the way to the inn."

His friendly demeanor slowly returns much as Grommund resumes a more stern expression.

"But let this be your first welcome to this town. We thrive on trade. We buy and sell information. We buy and sell food and libtations. We buy and sell weapons. We buy and sell protection and safety. We buy and sell more personal entertainment for those so inclined. Treat fairly and you'll be treated fairly."

He gestures toward the gate, indicating the party is welcome to enter.

As the party passes, Seraphim adds, "Market straight ahead if you need a blacksmith. Take your first left for the inn."

Davroar

As he enters he looks to the left and suggests, "I'm thirsty and hungry. Let's get to the inn."

Sindar

Having made an accord, the half-elf gives the guard a warm nod and proceeds into the town.

"I could do with something to wash the dirt from my throat as well," he agrees with Davroar.

Jaliera

She smiles and thanks the guards.

Then she nods to Davroar.

"Inn is a good choice. Best we secure lodgings and stabling too."

She is taking her duties for her as yet unnamed horse seriously.

<Bern>

He nodded to the guards as he entered.

He smiled, "A bit of food and drink would be most welcome."

Kriv

He nodded respectfully to the guards: A place of rational transactions, where cold, hard gold held sway, That he could work with. Onwards to the inn.

DM

The group passes through the gates, into the lively bustle of this small settlement. The late afternoon sun casts long shadows on the various buildings, around, most of them cottages, with a few stables or barns. The sight and smell of agriculture indicates the wall is probably more to protect them from critters rather than an army.

The road forks; a short distance straight ahead is a vibrant market square where a dozen or so vendors attend their carts under colorful awnings. The tantalizing scents of roasted meats, freshly baked bread, and exotic spices drift your direction. Merchants call out enthusiastically, hawking their wares to passersby. About twice as many shoppers as merchants browse the stalls, some haggling enthusiastically. A general air of commerce and camaraderie prevails.

To the left, the road gently ascends a small hill, leading you toward a large and inviting-looking inn. The distant sounds of laughter and lively music drift from the inn, promising a warm and hospitable atmosphere within.

As most of the party has indicated the inn as their destination, they head that way, where stables are available for their mounts.

Davroar

He takes in the liveliness of the local market and is pleasantly surprised with it all. Dismounting as they approach the inn, he will help Jaliera in taking her mount with his to the stable and will ask her, "I can take the horses if you want and grab us a decent table?"

DM

While the gentle slope on the road approaching the inn isn't a challenge to anyone, the slight change in elevation appears more relevant as they approach the inn. It's situated on the highest ground in the area, with a clear view over the walls to the roads approaching from the east, west, and south, and the Evermoors to the north.

The inn is large, probably able to house as many or more as all the scattered cottages inside the walls, implying that the permanent residency here may be a minority. It has two stories above ground, with a few guards visible on the upper story keeping an eye on things. They certainly don't look threatening, but combined with the guards at the gate, they seem to give the impression that "the law" is present if needed, but is mostly trying to keep the place safe for commerce.

The inn forms a "U" shape with the stables on the eastern flank, which happens to be downwind today (and most days). The western side appears to be the source of song, laughter, and an occasional curse of a gambler finding him or her self at the wrong end of a wager.

The party can enter from inside the enclosed portion, passing a small garden furnishing the inn with fresh vegetables, herbs, and spices.

So far, they've mostly blended in with the dozens of other travelers coming, going, and staying for a few days to replenish supplies in one of the few places along this stretch of Evermoor Way that seems slightly safer than the open road. But as they enter, no doubt all eyes will be on them...

Jaliera

"Sure, I can do that."

She smiles at him and adds "And if you can find out his name, that would be good."

She heads into the inn, noting firstly the garden and secondly the lively atmosphere as she heads towards the bar, looking for a large table on the way and if there is table service or not.

<Bern>

He follows Davroar to the stables to get his horse settled in as well.

Sindar

He will dismount and go to take care of his horse first, then he is interested in satisfying his own needs.

Kriv

It's been a long ride. Duty dictates seeing to the mounts first.

Arus

Though his steed isn't strictly in need of care, Arus feels that the celestial warhorse should experience stabling and grooming on the Prime Material Plane. When on Faerûn do as the Faerûnians do. As a triton, Arus follows the same creedo.

So once the steed is sorted, Arus follows his companions into the inn to secure their overnight lodging.

"Room, board and stabling for the night, if you please." he says to the attendant.

DM

For those who head to the stables with their mounts, they are welcomed by the stablehands.

A man who introduces himself as Brom is a burly and weathered man with a salt-and-pepper beard. He's the head stablehand, responsible for overseeing the operation. His leather apron is stained with hay and mud, and he has a calm, reassuring presence. He also introduces his wife Elyra, a middle-aged woman with a warm smile, who is in the process of feeding and grooming some of the other horses already here when the party arrives.

Two younger stablehands are present as well, a teenage boy apparently named "Finn" when Brom calls him from his current task. His shovel indicates he has the unenviable task of cleaning the stalls, but by the looks of the available stalls he seems to do a good job of it. And there's a younger girl, probably about twelve and somewhat shy, whom Elyra addresses as Lily. She may not be doing any actual practical work, but she is keeping a few horses company and clearly loves being here.

The stablehands offer a range of services to the party. Travelers can choose to pay for their horses to be taken care of, including feeding, grooming, and stall cleaning, or they can choose to tend to their steeds themselves. Feed, hay, and fresh water are available for sale.

On the opposite side of the stables from where the party entered, a door opens to a long hallway toward the dining area of the inn.

DM

For those who arrive in the inn, it seems a warm and hospitable atmosphere. The hum of conversation and the clinking of tankards fills the air. The common room they step into is spacious, with about twenty sturdy wooden tables, slightly over half of which are occupied by a mix of travelers, locals, and adventurers, leaving the party their choice of a half-dozen or so tables, where they can dine together, or perhaps even split up.

Two barmaids, one with fiery red hair and the other with a mischievous twinkle in her eye, deftly weave between the tables, taking orders and delivering frothy mugs of ale, hearty plates of food, and mugs of steaming cider. The redhead nods toward the party as they enter, offering a "be right with ya!" as she nods in the direction of some empty tables, indicating they are welcome to take a seat.

The patrons at the tables appear content, savoring their meals and engaging in animated conversations. In the vicinity of their parents at one of the tables, a group of younger children is engaged in a lively tag-based game. Their laughter and playful antics add an element of youthful energy to the room.

To the south of the common room, there are a couple of curtained-off rooms where the sounds of revelry can be heard. Laughter mingles with the strains of lively music, hinting at a private celebration in progress.

Near one of the walls, the innkeeper, a stout and welcoming figure with a friendly smile, maintains a wooden desk. On the desk rests the customary guestbook, where travelers can record their names and the number of rooms they require. The innkeeper is attentive, ready to assist new arrivals and answer any questions they may have.

The air is filled with the comforting scents of freshly baked bread, roasting meats, and a hint of herbs and spices. The inn's hearth crackles with a warm and inviting fire, casting a cozy glow over the room.

Jaliera

She sees Arus heading to the innkeeper so she dodges around the 'tag' children, smiling at their antics, to claim a table large enough to seat them all. Seeing there is one chair short, she grabs a free one on route and adds it to their table. Then she sits and waits for the others to catch up.

<Bern>

He takes a moment to look around the stable as he enters. He smiled. It was surprisingly clean and 'well kept' ... and the 'staff' seemed to like what they were doing. It seemed a good place to leave the mounts ... better than many places he had used.

"We would like to stable some horses. What do you charge?"

DM

"Prices are here," Brom gestures to a sign advertising stable costs. "Two silver for basic services, but you can always ask for special requests." He gestures at the young girl. "Lily'll keep 'em brushed for free, as well, if you give her their names."

Sindar

He looks to the sign wondering how it was that his life had changed so much. It was almost as much to stable his horse as it was what he lived on for a month when he was younger. He didn't begrudge it. It was something interesting to muse on.

He slipped two silvers deftly into his hand and offered them. "Here is for the basic services for my mount. I will take a peek at her when I return, and should there be extra care given, I will compensate with a nice tip." The half-elf offered a winning smile.

Davroar

Looking up at the prices Brom has indicated, he will say, "I like to take care of my horses, so I'll just pay for the feed and hay."

He will take the opportunity here to cast his spell speak to animals to ask Jaliera's horse if he/she has a preferred name. He will repeat this for his horse too since both were originally taken from the bandits.
Whether the horses give him a name or not, Davroar will add, "Oh, if there is any animal that is hurt, perhaps I can help. For free." Davroar is happy when he can help hard working folk like he sees here.

<Bern>

He pulls out a couple of silvers and hands them to Brom with a nod. But he plans to stop by later and see what sort of a job has been done.

Zhu

While not a Druid, as an Eladrin she has a natural affinity for animals and so pays for all the needed care while still anticipating doing some of it herself.

"We would also like some rooms......" She lifts an eyebrow questioningly.

DM

In the stables.

The lead stablehand laughs. "Not sleeping in a stall here?" he says, gesturing to a rather clean pile of hay.

"Brom!" Elyra chides in a stern voice, although her eyes give away some mirth at his tease. "You'll find a desk in the common room that can help you there. Lots of rooms of every size," she offers. "You can go down that hallway," she gestures to the opposite end of the stables as where the group entered "or go back out across the garden if you like."

In the common room.

Jaliera is the only one to bypass the stables, and is successful at claiming a table large enough for the party. Shortly after being seated, the redhead comes over, noticing the additional chair being moved. "Expecting others? You want anything now or should I come back?"

<Bern>

He looks a bit sad at the stablehand's comment. "I had been considering that ... since I don't like to let my mount alone. But there doesn't seem to be any 'bar service' out here", he finished then grinned.

Jaliera

She is coughing as the redheaded barmaid approaches.

"Yes there are a group of us just sorting out horses, so we will wait to order food together. I would like a drink though, I'm a little dry. What do you have that is not alcohol? And what is on the food menu tonight? I can then let the other know."

She smiles at the barmaid.

Zindra
The scout joins Bern and Davroar as they head to the stables. There were more horses than two could guide there.

OOC: PM on the way for Bern and Davroar.

DM

"Of course!" the woman serving Jaliera responds. "We have freshly squeezed fruit juices, including apple, orange, and a delightful berry blend. If you're in the mood for something a bit more refreshing, we also have chilled water infused with cucumber and mint, which is quite popular on warm evenings like this."

She continues, "As for tonight's menu, the popular choice is a hearty vegetable stew with crusty bread, mushrooms, and a grilled vegetable platter. For those who prefer meat, we're serving roasted chicken with potatoes. A few more choices than that... if you'd like, I can bring you a menu card so you can share with your friends. Would you like to order that drink now or wait for the menu?"

Jaliera

"I'll take a berry juice now please and yes a menu would be welcome."

She nods with a smile, stifling a yawn behind her hand.

As the waitress leaves a man sits beside Jaliera and they exchange a few words.

DM

Meanwhile, in the stables, the group of four stablehands attends to the rest of the party. They're happy and eager to help when asked or stay out of the way if requested. The prices are fair, the place looks reputable, and the girl Lily appears to not actually work there, just loves talking to and brushing horses. Or maybe she's keen on Finn, as she glances his way often, but he seems oblivious to her presence.

Davroar's offer of healing is met with a raised brow and an appraising nod. "We do have one here who's got a limp, but I'd want to talk to his owner before you did anything," Brom replies.

Sindar

His horse arranged for, he walks through the door that was pointed out to enter the common room of the inn.

He looks about for anyone he knows, and spotting Jaleria, he starts in her direction.

<Bern>

He smiled at the girl that seemed to like horses but was not paid for her efforts. He pulled out a silver and held out his hand. "If you could make sure they feel loved, I would appreciate it", he said offering her the coin. "They will like it", he said indicating the horses with a nod of his head, "and I would appreciate it as well."

DM

Lily's eyes widen at the offer of a coin from Bern and it may not be possible for her smile to get any bigger. "Yessir!" she replies immediately. "I'll take extra time on all your horses, I promise!"

She turns and holds up the coin to Elyra, who offers a warm, "Well done, Lily. Need me to keep that safe for you or are you going off to the market now to buy something with it?"

"I... uh...." Lily looks torn. She just promised. "I'll go right after I brush all these horses!"

"Right," Elyra replies. "Finn, go with her when she's done, so she stays out of trouble," she orders the boy, her eyes twinkling.

Lily grins even more.

Kriv

The Dragonborn noble was content to pay for services befitting rank, and leave it at that.

Davroar

To Brom he says with a smile, "Find me inside then after you talk to the owner and I'll gladly help."

Leaving the stables he will head inside to find Jaliera to see her sitting with a stranger. His eyes narrow in suspicion, but so far it seems she is not in any danger. Approaching the table he says, "Our horses are stabled. Who's this?"

DM

As the party taking care of horses arrives in the common room, they see Jaliera holding a table for them, and the innkeeper at a desk near the wall, and somewhat the same scene earlier described.

DM

Horses cared for, the remainder of the party arrives in the common room, some earlier as they simply paid for services, and others slightly later as they exchange various pleasantries with the stablehands.

Arus and Zhu are among the first to arrive, heading for the innkeeper's desk to arrange rooms for themselves and the rest of the party. They may be surprised to find out the inn is rather large, with a full basement below the floor they're on, mostly with rooms for rent, as well as a kitchen and store rooms. Rooms are available at reasonable prices, with a simple bed for the thrifty, and more luxurious surroundings or larger beds for those so inclined to share a bed with a companion. A wink implies companionship is also available for a fee for anyone who doesn't have one.

At the table, Jaliera seems to be conversing with a stranger that nobody has met, with Davroar being the first to approach and inquire about him.

And there are plenty of others in the tavern, from a mixed race table gambling to various families dining to various individuals apparently drinking alone and observing the crowd to pairs or threesomes engaged in their own private conversations.

The bar is serving drinks, but no one is seated there; a pair of barmaids are circulating among the tables handling the orders from there and the kitchens.

Jaliera

She looks up as Davroar approaches, smiling.

"Good. Did you get a name?"

Then she turns to her companion.

"This is Pavel. We briefly made acquaintance in Phandalin."

<Bern>

He entered common room, looked around then moved to the bar to secure a beverage. "What do you recommend", he asked the bartender.

DM

The bartender gives Bern a stern look. "I recommend you tip more than a copper next time," he replies, and moves to the other end of the bar, studiously ignoring him.

<Bern>

"A tip is for =good service= ... which =I= have not received", he called to the ... alleged ... bar tender. He turned and joined the others at the table.

Zindra

When Zindra walks into the inn and sees Jaliera talking to a stranger she simply raises her eyebrows with surprise and mutters, "interesting..."

She turns her attention over to Bern who is having a hard time with the bartender.

"What's that all about? You haven't been here before. Do you think he took you for someone else?"

<Bern>

He shrugged. "Just an over worked, under paid, under appreciated fella", he said and then gave Zindra a wink and a grin.

Zindra

"Maybe? Hey, we never found that doppelganger that's been messing with your good name, have we? Maybe we're on his tail?"

<Bern>

He shrugged. "It didn't sound like he was reacting to me 'personally' ... rather that he is just not a very good bartender", he said with a wicked grin. "But maybe you could 'chat him up' after I get a drink and go to the table."

Zindra
"Yeah. I'll do that. I'll use my girlish charm!" she says, lifting an arm up and smelling her pit. "Not too bad."

She interlocks her arm into Berns by the elbow and pulls him with her towards the bar.

"Hey, barkeep, over here!" she waves.

When he returns she says "I wanna apologize for this guy. He's been a bit wonky lately. A beer for me and one for him too. And here's an extra gold for you to make up for that copper! His memory ain't too good. Can you remind my pal when he insulted you like that?"

<Bern>

He raised an eyebrow when Zindra 'takes his arm', but he was willing to 'go with the flow'.

He listens to her 'presentation', but waits to hear from the barkeep.

Stranger

He rises when Davroar approaches to move to another chair and make room for the man who appeared to be a druid. He recognized the man from briefly seeing the party before the festivities celebrating the "Heroes of Phandalin."

"Well met" says to the man. "Any of the other still "Heroes of Phandalin" traveling with you? From there myself I worked at the Miner's Exchange for Halia. Not often you get to see people you recognize so far from the place you call home."

DM

As the party arrives at the table, the red-headed barmaid is already on her way over with a few menu cards and the fruit juice Jaliera ordered. "Here you are," she smiles, clearly giving friendlier service to the crowd than the bartender gave Bern. "Let me know if you need anything, I just need to fetch drinks for another table."

Meanwhile, at the bar, Zindra's offer of a gold piece brings a raised eyebrow from the bartender, who graciously accepts it and as is customary for such an exchange, provides the requested information. "He was in here a week or two ago," the man tells Zindra. "Sat over there," he gestures toward the far corner of the room, "with a dwarf and some other ne'er-do-wells. They all clearly had coin, and were rude enough to my girls," he gestures broadly at his pair of serving girls "that I served 'em myself. Three rounds for a copper tip."

He turns his stern gaze on Bern. "And don't deny it, I don't forget a face."

Zindra

"I don't doubt it. However, you were deceived. This man here has just come into town with me from Yartar. We were there just a few nights ago and before that we were in Triboar. I am absolutely sure that you saw someone that looks like my friend because there is a master makeup artist, he uses magic I believe, to impersonate this fine man!"

Zindra Deception (or persuasion - same bonus)
Neptune rolled 1d20+1 and got 6

DM

The bartender looks unconvinced by Zindra's argument, stopping just short of rolling his eyes at the convoluted explanation. But holding a grudge is bad business.

"Look, you've made it right," he tells Zindra, holding up the gold coin and turning to give Bern a curt nod. "So I'll forget what happened. If you're really someone else I'll believe it when I see it. Now.... did you two want a beverage?"

Davroar

He gives Pavel a smile and says, "Hello. You're aways from Phandalin too. We just arrived. Jaliera you know. I'm Davroar", he looks up and points to Kriv as he enters, "it's hard not to miss Kriv, and Bern was just with me at the stables." Davroar does a quick look around to find Bern and quickly adds, "Ahh, he's over at the bar."

Thinking back for a moment he adds, "The other's... old man Chandan left sometime before the celebration ended. Haven't seen him since. Ryssa went back home to train I think. Luminmorn, still in Phandalin when you left?"

He won't forget Jaliera's question about her horses name, but for the moment will wait for Pavel to answer.


[ooc: I can't remember if Luminmorn took over the mayor's position in Phandalin or not?]

Jaliera

She is smiling and listening to the conversation but also watching the others at the bar.

"Got a menu card too."

She pushes it in Davroar's direction.

<Bern>

He give Zindra a thankful nod of appreciation. He probably would not have been able to resolve the situation so peacefully.

Pavel

Pavel looked over at the bar where the bartender seemed to be angry at one of the travelers. Frowning for a second before answering the question

"Luminmorn... one of the heroes and your friend at the manor? I worked with him a few times when we were clearing out the mines. He was still there when I left. I think I was on the next caravan out of Phandalin to Triboar so last I saw of him he was fine which was only a few days after all of you left the town. He was still widely popular and well respected the last I saw of him."

"Speaking of following you, I can say the smoke was still rising from the ashes following that giant attack at Triboar when I got there. That looked like some nasty work. Glad all of you made it alright."

As they are talking Pavel's eyes flit between Davroar and the man that Davroar had indicated was Bern. Following the near altercation Pavel looked over at the two, "He normally get that reaction from people you meet?"

Zhu

She nods thanks for the information about the rooms. "I expect we'll need 2..., no, make that three rooms", she says, with a quick glance at Davroar and Jaliera. "I am fine with the current company, but I'll ask my companions if they desire any."

Moving back to where the others are gathered she relays the information. Upon hearing some of the banter about the Doppleganger she tries to think back to their earlier stops where he put in an appearance to try to determine if they are gaining or losing any ground on catching up to him.

DM

The innkeeper makes some notations in his guest book, assigning three comfortable rooms and quoting a fair price. "How long will you all be staying?" he inquires, as he opens a drawer to find the keys for the assigned rooms.

The bartender serves a pair of beers to Bern and Zindra, not asking for any additional payment; apparently the gold piece sufficed for both forgiveness and as paymente for the round.

The red-headed barmaid returns to the table with a smile, looking around to those gathered. "Drinks? Food? Entertainment?"

And a young boy about ten or eleven years old trots over to the table from some table nearby. It's not obvious who he's with, but with the handful of children milling about the place it doesn't seem his visit to the new table is of concern to anyone. "You're the heroes of Phandelver?" he asks, wide-eyed, looking around the group. "And I heard you made giants run away in Triboar! Which one of you made the thunder thing happen and disappeared? That magic sounds sooooooo aweseome!"

<Bern>

He gives the bartender an appreciative nod then raises his glass in salute towards Zindra.

Zindra

She clanks her goblet against Bern's. Some drops of foam fell to the floor before she took a big gulp. "Ahhhh! Great after a long day on the road!"

Then she turns back to the barkeep.

"Thanks!" she says with a big smile aas she raises her flagon a second time. This time towards the bartender. "Hey. I know my story is weak. I mean why impersonate this guy here?" She turns and sniffs Bern and then shakes her head in mock disgust. "Did that guy that was here a tenday ago smell like Bern too? Look. I'm interested in what that guy was doing. And what about that dwarf? Did he have a name? Do you know where either of them were going after here?"

DM

"Weevil," the bartender replies, reaching for a rag to wipe up the bar in front of Zindra. "Forkbeard," he adds. "Sometimes people show up here with wanted posters for 'him, but he's got more friends here than enemies, I guess."

Taking a step back, he adds, "as for the rest, can't say I know. But if you're lookin' for information in this town, there's no better source than the market's seamstress. Aye, that's right, old Miss Abigail. She's got a tongue sharper than any dagger, and she knows every thread of gossip that passes through these parts."

He leans against the bar. "But mind you, she's a bit... eccentric, let's say. Finds joy in patching up folks and unraveling their stories all in one go. She's usually set up near the fruit stand. Can't miss it. Probably closed for the day but you'll catch her tomorrow no doubt."

Davroar

He shakes his head and replies to Pavel, "No. Bern has a doppleganger that's giving him, and us, troubles."

Davroar smiles his thanks to Jaliera for handing him a menu as he mumbles, "Mmm, food...", as he looks at the menu trying to decide what to order while his empty stomach grumbles even more at him. When the barmaid arrives he will ask for the vegetable stew and a mead.

The attack on Triboar was chaotic and Davroar will ignore the young boy's question as he does not know who had casted the loud spell. It was probably Zhu or Sindar, but he will let either of them to answer.

With his food and drink order done with, he casually taps his fingers over Jaliera's back of her hand to grab her attention and says, "About your horse's name. The bandit that last rode her, called her a name I shouldn't say in front of children. I then asked what name she would like, and the mare describe to me her earliest memory of growing up in a wide field of tall grass and sunflowers with four siblings that she would run around with amongst her herd. I suspect she wants a name that will bring back memories of happier times."

Jaliera

"Thanks."

She smiles at Davroar.

"Think she would like the name 'Meadow'? And I'll have the stew too! With a hunk of bread too I think. Hungry.. Are you eating with us Pavel? Good to hear Luminmorn is doing well."

Then she is distracted by the child. She turns to him smiling. "Who are you with lad?"

Kriv

The Dragonborn noble spent a while listening to the goings-on around, before beckoning for a beverage and taking a seat. It seemed Zindra had the hunt for the doppelganger well in hand, so he turned his attention to a child with the bravery and inquisitiveness to approach a group of hardened adventurers. Traits that could take one far, or all too short a way. Jaliera's question was astute, so he awaited its resolution before addressing the boy. There was always the possibility that the Doppelganger was brazenly seeking intelligence on the group, but the information requested was innocent enough.

"You've an interest in the Art, boy?" Kriv punctuated the question with a cantrip of flame safely dancing over the claws of one hand. "I believe the effect you describe falls under my colleague's purview," He gestured towards Zhu, "But there were at least three of us slinging various kinds of magic around, myself included. I was somewhat preoccupied at the time so can't be completely certain to whom you refer."

Zhu

She smiles softly at the boy and his enthusiasm and nods as Kriv indicates the effects the boy mentioned were probably her doing and that several of them used magic during that fight.

DM

The boy's eyes widen and he nods enthusiastically. "Wow! That's awesome! I can do magic too, you know?" he brags. "Anyone got a copper, I'll show you!"

Pavel

He remains with the group as the party slowly gathers at table. Observing them and their interactions.

At the boy's approach he quietly observes the party as they address the child.

After a bit he addresses the party. "When I left Phandalin they were still talking about the doppleganger. I take it you keep running into it along your travels?"

<Bern>

He sat quietly, trying to maintain a 'low profile' in case there were others that his nemesis had offended.

Zindra

She could see that the conversation was bothering Bern and he had good reason to be upset, but this was a solid lead. Zindra doesn't recognize the name of that dwarf but she wasn't surprised to hear that the doppelganger was dealing with people that had their face on wanted posters.

"Thank you for the information, and the notes of cautions," she said, flicking another gold coin at the barkeep. "For the information". She leans in to quietly add, "and if you come across any information about those two that you might learn while we're in town, I'll be generous again."

With that she put a reassuring hand on Bern's back and said, "Let's join our friends at their table and share what we've learned, eh?"

<Bern>

He did his best to ignore the 'conversation'. It seemed more productive than getting 'into it' with the bartender.

He accepted Zindra's 'suggestion' of joining the others with a nod and a smile. "And another drink or two". he said with a wink.