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Last time on Tavern Quest, Tallius and associates had a successful first night of business, and Santher was thrown out of the bar by an angry Sif, to the delight of everyone involved. The workmen and guards returned to Gearwatch before sunup, and now Tallius has woken from an intense dream to find himself faced with some unusual customers...

Tallius Urist

Barter: 2/5
Streetsmarts: 1/5
Strength: 2/5
Cunning: 3/5
Charisma: 4/5
Business 1/5

Inventory:

Senatorial Signet Ring

Concealed Dagger, Inscription reads "Imperator"

Two Iron Daggers.

Crossbow, 50 bolts.

Dignity

1,470 Gold

Holdings:

Fine horse-drawn cart, valued at 500 gold.

The Clock Tower Tavern, standard configuration, capacity of 50 souls. Basic Brewery on site. Estimated sale value 20,000 gold.

Deactivated Automata, type unknown, properties unknown, sale price unknown.


Employees:

Sif: Barmaid with unusual strength and little tact. Weekly Wage of 30. Insurance pool deposit of 10.

Martellus: Burly academic with brewing and barman skills. Weekly wage of 30. Insurance pool deposit of 10. Contracted for Barkeeping lessons.

Miaya: Eccentric Painter, Cook, and Huntress, in that order. Knows Tallius is actually Marcus Sertorius, seems willing to keep this to herself. For now Weekly wage of 30. Insurance pool deposit of 10. Contracted for Hunting lessons.

You have close cropped brown hair, and are clean shaven. You will remain so, lest someone recognize your once distinctive facial hair. Your wife used to call your eyes liar's blue. You and Lucretia were not on the best of terms at the time, but she has a point there. You are currently wearing high quality, but not high profile, traveler's leathers. Your clothes are beginning to smell a bit, you suppose a week without washing is a bit much even for a "commoner" like yourself.

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>>In the grim darkness of apartheid fantasy Rome there is only booze.

Holy hell I almost forgot about this. Got relatives in town so I'll be popping in and out.

You are still groggy from your disturbed sleep, but Sif has excitedly woken you and there are apparently customers downstairs. Looking to your right, it seems Martellus has stocked your closet with some modest clothes, likely smelling somewhat better than the leathers you still wear. Sif seems impatient, and you would be making customers wait, but appearances can be important.

" Come the fuck on, Boss, you really need to see these guys."

The choice is yours, Tallius. And please roll a d6 for your guests.

Rolled 6

>>24626893
Put on the decent clothing, doesn't help to make the proles make you think you're one of them.

Rolled 2

>>24626893

Intrigue!

Rolled 5

>>24626893
We should at least change into some fresh clothes, tell her we'll be down in a moment.

>>24626948

I feel like a six warrants nice clothing.

Rolled 3, 4 = 7

>>24626963
Second

Rolled 5

>>24626893
We really ought to change clothes.

>>24626948

You tell Sif to let you change for a moment. She stands in the doorway, arms crossed, foot tapping rythmically on the floor.

"Lady Sif, I do not meet guests smelling of dirt and musk. My sleep was troubled, I am covered in sweat, and at the very least I should put on some fresh clothes."

Sif nods, but doesn't move.

"...Sif. Privacy for your employer, please?"

She seems surprised for a moment, but closes the door quickly. You turn to the wardrobe, and decide to put on a simple white cotton shirt and some brown trousers, tied with a crimson sash you think provides some small level of fashion to the otherwise dull proceedings.

You walk outside, nodding to Sif who still waits in the hall, and you both head down the stairs to the taproom. The first thing you notice is that Miaya has hung her paintings, there were more of them than you thought, they tastefully line the walls and stairwell, lending the room a bit of identity.

The second thing you notice is the twenty men arrayed in the center of the room, wearing bright red uniforms with garish ornaments and tassels and brandishing crossbows at what you recognize as parade rest.

The most flamboyant of them all, a man in a uniform that can only be described as tasteless, and in a hat that threatens to scrape the ceiling with it's poofy bulk, steps forward in the long, practiced strides of an officer.

He bears his right hand to his heart in a standard salute.

" I am Reginald Britannius, and these fabulous gentlemen are the illustrious Rose Brotherhood, the finest group of well-drilled men of war this side of the Capitol! You, sir, I assume are the proprietor of this fine establishment of the road?"

Shit, you might need Martellus to translate this guy. They seem like they may speak from the same screwed up dictionary.

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>>24626800

>>24627175
>>24627178
Oh, the irony.

>>24627175
"Gentlemen! You are indeed fabulous. Let me rouse my barman, and we shall see to your needs posthaste! Take a seat, and tell me of your fine group!"

>>24627224
Say this, and fetch the barman with a flourish.

Wooh been waiting all week!
>>24627224
I like this

>>24627224

Let's not get too carried away with the foppishness lest we give give away our origins. Not that it seems like these guys are legitimate patricians ho would know us so much as high class clowns.....

Whatever, as long as they have money.

>>24627290
He has a point, we're trying not to play up our noble heritage.

>>24627224
"Gentlemen! You are indeed fabulous. Let me rouse my barman, and we shall see to your needs posthaste! Take a seat, and tell me of your fine group!"

You wave your arm across the Taproom, and you see that Martellus is already behind the bar. He whispers to you, "Apologies, Tallius, but he demanded to speak with the owner before doing business."

You nod your understanding as Reginald takes a seat at the bar. He turns to his men.

" Alright men, at ease. Enjoy yourselves and give this man your business, it's an order!"

A stomp on the floor that bounces Martellus' glassware up an inch, and causes Sif to stumble as she heads behind the bar, you smirk as she catches herself before breaking something. Better.

As one Reginald's men sling their weapons across their backs, and salute.

They then quickly break formation, yelling and moving about every which way, taking seats in the empty taproom as Sif hurries to take their orders. You wonder if you had hallucinated their previous cohesion.

Reginald turns to you after ordering the most expensive of Martellus' craft brews, and some wine to wash it down.

" You have me at a disadvantage, sir! I know not what to call you, or your barman, nor even your fine mistress!"

>>24627475
My apologies, I am Tallius, this is my Barman Martellus, and the fine lady is called Sif. So what brings your band here to the Clocktower?

Just caught up with the quest. When we get the chance a few things worth doing:
1. hide your signet ring and family knife; perhaps having Miaya bury them in the woods?
2. You got training contracts with Martellus and Miya for bartending and hunting, is there a particular reason we didn't get unarmed combat training from sif?
3. The merchant you are blackmailing about his "elf fetish"? the woman in the hood was most likely his elf wife and the kids their children. And you really should try to do right by him, maybe paying fair price for goods? both to avoid trouble down the road (him having enough and hiring assassins, or recognizing you and reporting you) and because its the decent thing to do.
4. We got to get some accent coaching ASAP.

>>24627546
>1. hide your signet ring and family knife; perhaps having Miaya bury them in the woods?

Hide them but dont have her bury them to much leverage on her part
>2. You got training contracts with Martellus and Miya for bartending and hunting, is there a particular reason we didn't get unarmed combat training from sif?
Nope we can look into that
>3. The merchant you are blackmailing about his "elf fetish"? the woman in the hood was most likely his elf wife and the kids their children. And you really should try to do right by him, maybe paying fair price for goods? both to avoid trouble down the road (him having enough and hiring assassins, or recognizing you and reporting you) and because its the decent thing to do.

I believe we talked about that, but we should do it later on when we have more money and can afford it

>4. We got to get some accent coaching ASAP.

Yes.

>>24627524
+1
Sounds good to me

>>24627524
"My apologies, I am Tallius, this is my Barman Martellus, and the fine lady is called Sif. So what brings your band here to the Clocktower?"

Reginald smiles as Martellus brings his drinks, and quickly takes a significant gulp of the thick brew he ordered.

" Ah, well, it seems you are no knave! Good, very good. You won't mind then, if I have a business arrangement in mind, no? The Rose Brotherhood has need of a place to encamp for the next week. I will take your stateliest room, as befitting my station, and the men will camp outside, making use of your stables for their mounts. We will operate out of the Tavern and patronize your establishment for food and drink. At the end of the week, we continue on. For this, I am willing to pay you a sum of 3,000 gold, half now, half in one week. This, of course, is besides what my men will surely pay for food and drink, the Brotherhood only covers their lodging. What say you, Tallius?"


That's a lot of money, and a seemingly fair deal.

Roll cunning, please. Three dice.

Rolled 6

>>24627722
"Well, so long as you do not pester other customers, I see no issue!"

Rolled 22

>>24627722

Rolled 82

>>24627722

>>24627753
Well, at least one of us can roll.

>>24627747
This was a 6 on a d6
>>24627750
>>24627753
these two were d100

>>24627722
At least try to swindle more money out of him I say we push for 4000

He shouldn't be offended by us trying to run a business

Rolled 5

>>24627823
Oh right, one last roll then.
In b4 nat 1

>>24627722

>>24627722
3000 gold for one room and guys buying things all week?

Can we roll for insight to see if there's something he's not telling us?

>>24627857

What do you think the cunning roll was for?

>>24627857
I think that's what our cunning roll is for.

>>24627865

Thought it was to see if we were could milk more money out of him.

>>24627857
>3000 gold for 1 week
>The building cost us 4500, asking price was 6000
>We pay our employees 30 a week.

>>24627750
>>24627753
>>24627844

You cannot help but note that Reginald neglected to inform you just why he and his men are so far north, but the deal is far too good to pass up.

"Well, so long as you do not pester other customers, I see no issue!"

Reginald laughs and clasps your hand, before handing over the agreed initial payment.

" Of course not, by good sir! I will tell the men just as soon as I can, I am sure they will be very pleases. You shan't regret this, Tallius, Reginald Britannius is famed for his integrity, and the honor of the Rose Brotherhood is lauded across the whole Protectorate."

You've never heard of them, but you suppose the man just has a taste for the grandiose. Sif walks back into the kitchen, bringing out some food for the Brothers. You assume Miaya must be out on a morning hunt, or else she would handle it. Martellus and Sif seem to be fine on their own, so you could try to find her, if you so wished.

>>24627897

Admittedly, the value of gold has shifted a bit from the earlier threads. I claim no great ability at match or economics. Apologies.

>>24627969
She will be back eventually, stay here and see if Reginald will give us any more information. Have we charged for any of the alcohol yet because we could raise our prices a little for their stay and make a little extra money.

>>24628018

They've been ordering drinks, you can see. But if you were to raise prices,it would only require you to inform Martellus without anyone noticing. Possible, but risky.

>>24628049
Let's not raise. Let's talk to Reggie, inquire a bit about him and his men.

>>24627969
If we look at the wages as being 2000$/mo then a gold coin is worth 66.67$. Nice coincidence because before the current depression (and resulting gold price increases) started I calculated it out and found that a small gold coin should be worth about 60-70$. (small like real coins not like the comically oversized gold coins on TV/comics)

Anyways, based on the wage of 2000$/mo conversion puts our building cost 300,000$ but it was fairly dilapidated. Renovations cost 53,336$. And this guy is offering us 200,010$.

>>24627969
>>24628105
I got a bit sidetracked... but anyways, the best way to keep the economy sane while still using a fictional currency is to first come up with a price in your own native money ($, yen, euro, whatever you are comfortable with). And then convert that to the fictional currency (gold coins).

>>24628105

Sullivan was very much underselling it, as well. The Military was in a hurry to rid itself of the Outpost. As for the rest, well, that's closer to my intentions than I had realized.

>>24628079
Agreed. Get him talking about himself (and by extension his company), people love talking about themselves.

Please link votes towards a course of action here, please.

...Something tells me these guys will flip out at the sight of an elf.

Anyone here take the time to consider these fine fabulous fellows could be bandits?

>>24628202
Rather too well disciplined to be bandits.

My bet is on mercenary company that made a dangerous enemy down south, possibly ripped off an employer.

>>24628191
Talk to Reggie and his men. Figure out what they do and who they are.

>>24628196
>>24628202
These two things are especially likely.

>>24628196
If that is a concern we should try to find out his views on them in casual conversation and if hostile excuse ourselves, intercept Miaya, and warn her to not let them see her (making it clear that we would stand up for her, but they ARE a mercenary company not a lone drunk).

>>24628191
Vote: talk to him, get him talking about himself/his company.

>>24628231
We should probably do a smooth "How bout those damn elves" thing to get their view on race relations

>>24628227
The could be deserters turned to banditry .

>>24628231

You find yourself second guessing this agreement. At this early stage, your Tavern might not survive association with unwholesome elements, and you need to make doubly sure your new life continues unimpeded.

You walk back up to Reginald, as the man drains the last of his mug, pinky outstretched as if it were simply an over sized teacup.

" Can I aid you somehow, my good sir?"

You nod.

" What exactly are you up here for, Reginald?"

He closes his eyes for a moment.

" Ah. I was wondering if you would ask. It's a simple question, really."

He stands, and reaches into his vest pocket, producing a scroll, sealed in red wax.

" This is a letter of intent and employment from the Capitol, you may inspect the seal if you wish. I can assure you that the Brotherhood is here on strictly legal business, and will bring no untoward association to your place of business, Tallius."

You take the scroll from him, suspicion burning inside. Examining the seal, you realize exactly why the seal sat you on edge. The seal is a sigil, an eagle perching atop of a solitary grave. The Lady Protector herself.

Of course, it's unlikely the Lady deals with mercenaries personally. Likely one of her lackeys or generals, perhaps even Father. No matter.

" I trust everything is in order, Tallius? I will have you know I went through quite the gauntlet to acquire that contract."

He runs a hand idly through his close cropped, pointed goatee, awaiting your reply.

>>24628231
Though even if they are we could use their protection and patronage.

>>24628287
Not all that smooth if he hates bigots and we just came off as one.
>>24628383
If that is the case then rather then paying us the other half when they leave, they will clean us out. However, we might be overthinking it.
Besides, they are getting drunk right now and as the old saying goes "in went the wine out went the secret"

>>24628287

erm... If he likes elves that could turn bad. Get him drinking get him talking and we will find out enough soon enough

>>24628416
Ah crap, they're probably here looking for us as well.

Oh well, it'd be too suspicious to kick them out now, so just agree that everything is in order.

>>24628416
... you were supposed to drink with him and get him talking not outright accuse him. However that went well enough. return the scroll to him apologize for being so suspicious and offer to buy him (not everyone) a drink.

>>24628416
Shit. They're looking for you, probably. Hand it back, stay smooth. Note to self - talk to the cook, hand her off the ring. Maybe see if you can't get a different dagger.

>>24628451
>
Not sure if this is better than bandits but lets accept our offer. If they are after us the last place they will expect is right under their noses. Also we may overhear things from them that could be useful for evading capture.

>>24628416
Why thats perfectly fine Reginald, let me get you another glass, on the house this time, looking towards a good week with you and your men.

Pour drink- "What brings you this far North on Capitol Business? If you dont mind my inquiry"

>>24628487
Also yes to this get rid of that fucking knife and ring. Put it somewhere they wont find

>>24628416

Let's find out if this guy is as dumb as he seems. Pump drinks into him and information out of him. Chances are this isn't about us but then again, daddy did have a history with the Lady Protector. Could be we're a loose end to her.

>>24628487
If anybody is getting searched the elf will be the first one.

>>24628509
>>24628608
Nice and easy with the interrogation. We don't want to get into serious business until he's nice and pickled.

>>24628509
"Why that is perfectly fine, Reginald, let me get you another glass, on the house this time, looking towards a good week with you and your men."

He seems pleased with that, at least.

" I knew you were a patriotic sort, ha!"

As Martellus pours his free drink, you decide to probe further.

"What brings you this far north on Capitol business? If you don't mind my inquiry"

He shrugs.

" I do not mind, but nor am I free to tell you. We are searching, hunting if you will. Do not trouble yourself about it, if we find what we seek you will see no more of us, and your pay will remain the same, you have my word as a gentleman."

You suppose that will have to suffice, it would not do to seem too curious about such things. Tallius Urist is but a simple Tavern Keeper, after all.

You decide to wait and see if his tongue loosens after more alcohol, but he only has one more drink before standing.

"Rose Brotherhood! Standard formation, move out! You know the routes for tonight!"

His men arrange in the middle of the room, brandish their weapons, and march out two by two. Reginald nods to you as he makes to follow, directing the tight parade formation from the rear.

Sif walks around, collecting the payment Reginald's men had left on their tables, as Martellus sets to cleaning the Mugs the leader left on the bar.

" What an eccentric man. And did I hear correctly, we are hosting them this week?"

Sif walks over after collecting the money, an interested look on her face. Miaya is no where to be seen. It's still early morning, but you are beginning to wonder.

>>24628703
>We are searching, hunting if you will.
Try not to drop into paranoia that automatically adds "FOR YOU." to the end of that. Excuse yourself with the excuse that your employee seems to have gone missing.

>>24628703
"And quite dashing if I do say so, and yes for this whole week."

>>24628703
"Yes they will be living in the yard for the week, Reginald will be taking our "finest room" on that note I guess we better make sure its stately and clean."

"Have either of you seen Miaya?"

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>>24628703

Bugger all, we blew it. Getting the contents of that letter is mission critical, so let's make a plan. Nothing too risky, we have plenty of time. Also finding out why these guys have so much cash and are willing to blow it here (we HURRR DURR'd on the skill check) would be nice.

>>Miaya missing.
We really need to put a bell on her or something. Could be she just stayed clear of a group of heavily armed capital thugs, which is probably for the best. I forget, is it illegal for her to work here?

>>24628789
Nero Sertorius was the Lady Protector's personal... uh.... problem solver. That makes us a liability to her. Until we know otherwise we have to assume this is a threat to us.

>>24628809
I have to say I like this wording.

It is a little troubling that Miaya does her little disappearing act while we are in this situation.
On the other hand she could just be out hunting.

>>24628830
>Bugger all, we blew it. Getting the contents of that letter is mission critical
What? no it isn't

>>24628809
This.

>>24628830
We already have a vague idea about the contents of the letter, but if we feel like confirming our suspicions we can go about doing that one way or another.

>>24628908
Humble tavern-master Tallius Urist doesn't care. Outlaw fugitive Marcus Sertorius should. If the Lady Protector herself is sending mercenary companies to find us that is information relevant to our interests (living).

I'm not saying we should take any huge risks to get it, but let's keep on it.

>>24628830
>>24628996
Clearly we need a Bard, someone that can entertain our patrons, but can freely converse with them aka extracting information.

>>24628809

"Yes they will be living in the yard for the week, Reginald will be taking our "finest room". On that note, I guess we better make sure it's stately and clean."

Martellus nods.

" I'll see to it after I'm done with the Taproom, Master Tallius."

Sif speaks up.

" Boss, where are you going to stay, then?"

You roll your eyes.

"Somewhere else, Lady Sif. This is a Tavern and the rooms are all for sale, mine included."

She nods.

" I'll move your stuff into one of the empty ones, then."

You could do that yourself, you almost say, but you remember there is something else on your mind.

" Either of you seen Miaya this morning?"

Sif shakes her head, but Martellus nods.

" She left right after I started opening up, put some skewers over the fire for customers and went out the back with her bow, not even a word to fill the space. She must have been up very early, seeing as how she got all of her paintings up before I even woke."

Martellus, always reliable. The bow indicates she is just hunting, the silence either Miaya's standard eccentricity, or perhaps something more problematic.

No customers just now, and the others have chores to attend. Seems as good a time as any to handle this, if you so choose.

>>24628996
>
This..."man" speaks sense. We don't want any more attention.

>>24629041
Now we take our time to help sif with the room and in the process hide our knife and ring somewhere in the tavern for now. No customers, the others doing chores, I dont think we will have a better moment

>>24629041
Miaya being gone could merely be a coincidence, but it never hurts to be certain.

Plus since the mercs are going to be here for a week, no need to rush for the letter just yet. Whoever they're searching for is obviously elsewhere *nudge nudge*

>>24629128
>>24629143
How about we help Sif, hide our dagger and ring, and if Miaya still hasn't showed up we take our crossbow along with our normal daggers to go look for her.
Just to make sure everything is OK.

>>24629128
We could hide them with our automaton. I don't think patrons will go in there.

So, helping Sif, hiding the evidence at the top of the Tower, and then heading out with the crossbow to search for Miaya?

Any opposed?

Rolled 6

>>24628996
what information? we are hunted, that's it.
And getting caught because we are too aggressive here would be bad.
Also its a sealed scroll he must present his employer, it is implausible that it contains a description of us.

>>24629302
No opposition.

>>24629302
No, but I wouldnt hide it in the top of the tower, or at least plan to move it later on. I believe in a previous thread we discussed turning this into an even nicer room.

>>24629302
I still think we should just hide it in our room at the moment just to make sure no one finds it in the tower.

>>24629359
the room we are letting their captain sleep in?

>>24629413
Of course not.
The room we are moving to and we just slip it in with our normal things.

>>24629302
>>24629338
>>24629359
What if...
hear me out...
we hide it.
INsidethe automaton.

>>24629446
That is a neat idea. Although I still think we should just have Miaya bury it in the woods.

>>24629446
That's crazy enough to work!

>>24629446
Crack it open and jam our shit inside.

>>24629446
It might have a compartment to hold things so it might be worth looking into.

>>24629335
>>24629338
>>24629359

" Hold, Lady Sif, I will help you with the room."

She smiles, and waits for you to join her before heading upstairs, as Martellus begins cleaning the rest of the Taproom.

" Ya know, Tallius, you looked troubled when I woke you. Are you okay, it seems like something's been bothering you."

Yeah, you suppose that's true. But you don't want Sif to think you a liar, and you told her last night that the past was behind you. So it is, at least as far as she knows.

" Just getting used to the new home, is all. Trouble yourself not, Lady."

Her smile remains, but you can tell she remains unconvinced.

Moving your belongings, few though they may be, takes only a few moments between the two of you. Sif lifts the heavy stuff, to your mild embarrassment, but a life of luxury in the Capitol did not bless Marcus Sertorius with exceptional strength.

" Well, that's it, Boss. I should get back to work, and so should you."

She walks off, leaving you staring oddly. How difficult must she be?

You take your crossbow from the trunk by the bed, walk downstairs, past your employees in the taproom, and outside. It's raining, and you can see the tracks Reginald and his men left as they departed. Trudging though the mud, you make your way to the tower. Moving past the brewey, you walk up the spiral stairs, and find yourself before the Automata, as still as ever.

In your hands you suddenly find Father's dagger, and the ring glints in the dim light upon your finger.

" Let us see if we can get inside you, friend."

Cunning roll, three dice.

Strength roll, two dice.

Need both.

Rolled 18

>>24629634
Dice, don't fail me now.

This is a Cunning roll.

>>24629669
Well bugger.

Rolled 47

>>24629634
Jam it in.

Rolled 64

>>24629634
Cunning

Rolled 4

>>24629634
Faith in the Machine Spirit!

Strength rollan.

Rolled 33

>>24629634
Strength roll

>>24629699
in my defense, at least this wasn't a 1.

Rolled 76

>>24629699
>>24629704
Tallius is a weanie.

Rolled 17

Roll to locate the vagoo

>>24629634
>mfw my idea gets used

Oh my-
>these rolls

It was a good idea ;_;

>>24629669
>>24629687
>>24629689
>>24629699
>>24629715

The automata has a number of protrusions and knobs across it's chest and back. No way to know just what they do, but one catches your eye. Your signet ring fits over a knob on the right shoulder fairly easily, and the metal is a similar color. It would take very close inspection to tell them apart. You don't see anywhere to put your knife. There seems to be some sort of compartment in the chest, but you fail to open it, it seems to be opened mechanically.

You return down the stairs, and stop at the door. The rain has intensified, and you hear thunder in the distance. It's unlikely Miaya would hunt in these conditions, you are concerned for her, but you still need to hide the knife.

>>24629859

Muh trip

>>24629859
Head out into the woods. There may be a place to hide the knife.

>>24629859
Hide the knife, go see if maiya has come in yet if not take a peak outside

>>24629859
In our room for now.
Check to see if Miaya has come back.
If not go out searching.

>>24629859
Does the tower have a lock?
Going back into the inn from the rain after being gone a short time only to go into your room and back out real quick is going to be suspicious and there are too many eyes. Its better to take it with you into the forest. Conceal carry for now.

The ring being on the outside is unacceptable for the long term. If you can't get it inside then bury it in forest along with the knife. I say we take both with us and go look for Miaya.

>>24630004

The tower can be locked, but Martellus prefers to keep it open, as he often comes and goes to use the equipment.

>>24630056
Muh trip. Again.

>>24630056
When did op become newfag?

>>24630056
You show your true colors yet again!

>>24630063
You seem to be having some issues tonight, Barkeep.

>>24630081

I assure you I am completely attentive and sober at 8:30 on a Saturday.

>>24630063
Leave the poor guy alone shit happens, lets just go find Maiya

You decide you've put this off long enough, and return your knife to it's place on your person before you set out into the storm to find Miaya. You don't bother returning to the Taproom, but you peek inside and see the huntress has yet to return, so you are not wasting your time.

Around the back of the Tavern, near the door Martellus claimed Miaya left through, you find something odd. A small stone, a pebble really. But the area around it is nothing but mud, and another is a bit further away. And another. It seems these white stones are evenly spaced in the mud, leading into the forest.

Someone is playing a game. It's up to you whether Tallius Urist is going to humor them.

>>24630195
Follow those stones. They lead to treasure.

>>24630195
follow the stones.
>>24630209
is that a euphemism?

>>24630229

Would you consider Elven booty a treasure?

>>24630195
Follow the stones

>>24630260
yes, yes I would :)

>>24630260
Thats a good way to show her we dont have the same hate our father did.

>>24630276
But their doubloons are worthless on the market.

>>24630291
Not necessarily. Its fairly common for bigoted men to go after the booty of those they oppress.

>>24630307
Some men prefer smaller doubloons

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>>24630195

>>All these fuckin rolls.
/tg/ dice are forcibly reinterpreting our character from a suave politician to a mentally handicapped orc kicking crimefighter. I'm not sure if I'm ok with this yet.

>>24630195
Follow carefully. This could be a trap.

You follow the stones, ignoring the mud that begins to spatter on the fresh clothes you had just put on, and the cold rain that begins soaking into the cotton of your shirt. Well, maybe ignore is the wrong word, its damned uncomfortable, not that you can do anything about it.

You enter the evergreen forest, chasing the stones. They begin to decrease in frequency, and before long stop altogether. You are a good ways into the woods now, but could leave by retracing your steps or following the stones. That would, however, almost certainly, be abandoning what you came to do, and that does not sit well.

This is a test, you realize, so it's time to pass. What little you know of tracking was taught to you at parties by soldiers whom you did your best to ignore, usually because you'd rather talk with Lucretia or hear more of Marcel's stories.

Cunning, three dice.

Rolled 1

>>24630483
Look for broken branches and the like.

Rolled 33

>>24630483

>>24630505
Looks like I killed us.

Rolled 37

>>24630483

Rolled 48

>>24630505
HURRRR DURRR. I guess Marcus Sertorius peaked early in life.

Rolled 42

>>24630483
>a test
Well your deal included her teaching you to track

>>24630505
Hahahahaholy shit

Time for Hatchetquest

>>24630505
>>24630513
>>24630527

You examine trees, bushes, branches, anything you can think off. In Gracchus' novel Where The Crimson Weed Is Culled, you remember an old tracker sniffing the ground in order to chase down a fox. You try it, and stand back up with only a distinct suspicion that you just sniffed a pile of boar dung to show for it. So much for learning from fiction.

Yeah, you are totally lost. If anyone is watching, you suppose the comedy is not lost on them, at the least. Add fool to your resume.

You hear something behind you, and assume the ruse must be up. Turning, you find only that you were correct indeed about the boar dung.

That's a Boar, a large one, and it's pawing at the ground, preparing to charge from less than thirty feet away.

Shit.

>>24630648
Well, any good trees near by for climbing?

>>24630648

Damn you liberal arts education! Ok we have a crossbow. Maybe we should try shooting it in the face. That way if our current luck keeps up we at least reserve the option to run like a girl.

>>24630648
Stomp and yell at it a bit. If it doesn't back down, shoot it with the crossbow.

>>24630683

There are plenty of trees. Whether you could climb them at all, much less in time, isn't really something you could hazard to guess.

>>24630700
Especially not with our soft, senatorial hands.

>>24630648
Clearly we must shoot it in the face and dodge out of the way when it charges.
Aim for the eyes!

>>24630648
"Come on then!"

Prepare the knife it's time to live.

>>24630688
Boar wont back down trust me, especially if its preparing to charge

Shoot the fucker

>>24630733

We've been trying to live this whole thread! It has not been going well!

>>24630731
This seems legit. We have historically been better at violence than thinking. Dad would be proud, if we hadn't destroyed everything he worked for anyways.

>>24630731
Cue basic video game bossfight mechanics. Dodge until it hits it's head on a tree 3 times, then coup de grace.

>>24630733
We are armed with a crossbow why knife?
Also, you want to try knifing a boar? that's certain death! We should at least run for it.

>>24630648
Shoot it in the face with our crossbow.

And if that doesn't work, run like a bitch.

>>24630784
I dont think we can outrun a boar, they are nasty mother fuckers

>>24630648

As the boar makes it display, you shoulder your crossbow, make your own.

" Hey! HEY! HEYAHHHHHHH!"

Well, it's not moving, was worth a try.

" Come on then!"

... what? Did you just say that? Seriously, the excitement must have gone to your head the last few days...

... oh fuck it's charging. That speed, it will be on you in mere seconds, and you don't like your chances up close.

You take aim, and pull the lever. Luckily you remembered to keep the damn thing loaded and cranked, and the bolt flies towards the boar...

Roll 1d100 for Marksmanship.

Rolled 66

>>24630821
TALLIUS SMASH!

Rolled 20

>>24630821

Rolled 39

>>24630821

Rolled 7

>>24630821
better be on target...

Rolled 54

>>24630821

Rolled 74

>>24630821
Shoot the dam thing

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>>24630838
>>24630840

Rolled 75

>>24630821

Rolled 46

>>24630821
!

>>24630836
Just imagine explaining this shit to Marcellus or Sif.

"So I went into the woods, following a path of white stones, which lead me to a boar, so I had to fight it..."
"And that's why you're in your room with forty stitches."

Rolled 1

>>24630836
>>24630838
>>24630840
>>24630842
>>24630843
>>24630844
>>24630850
>>24630858

Rolled 26

>>24630821

>>24630877
HA! YES

>>24630877
I HOPE THAT WAS THE FUCKING BOAR ROLLING! FUCK YOU BOAR

>>24630877
Lets hope this means that the boar is just as incompetent as us!

>>24630877
...Nice roll

>>24630877
The boar falls into a spike pit, lodging an apple in it's mouth once it hits the bottom.

>>24630877

So basically this happens?

www.youtube.com/watch?v=MoMXovAuCKA&t=2m1s

>>24630877

The bolt buries itself into the boar's head, just above the left eye. A sharp squeal of pain, and the beats' legs give out, it's momentum carrying it across the ground, tumbling. You almost yelp in triumph, but the boar corrects it's chaotic fall, and continues charging, blood streaming from it's open maw!

You turn to flee, but realise there is no place nor time to run. Instead, you take out your knife, dropping the crossbow, and prepare to meet it head on. Just then, you hear a rustling above you, and turn just in time to see a blur fall form the branches, and slam into the boar mere seconds before it strikes into you. The boar falls yet again, it's side colliding into you, and knocking you form your feet.

The boar, whatever fell on it, and Tallius Urist, are rendered into a flailing ball of chaotic movement and muddy flailing. Coming to a stop, you are face to tusk with the Boar, it's blood dripping form the very mouth that then attempts to rip out your throat. You reach up to attempt to hold it off, before you hear the sound of a blade entering flesh, and the light drains from the boar's eyes. The creature slumps off of you to the side, coming to rest in the mud, and you see Miaya, a curved knife in her hands and mud smeared across her body.

She licks the blood and brain from her knife, causing you to gag, before cocking her head to the side, as if the action were the most natural in the world.

" The first rule of boar hunting, Tallius Urist: Use bait."

The elf stops straddling you, and helps you to your feet. Words fail to come, at first. You'll think of something.

>>24631048
"Do you know how to make bacon?:

>>24631048
>The elf stops straddling you, and helps you to your feet. Words fail to come, at first. You'll think of something.
Try your damndest not to think of the weight of her body resting on yours, the clothes sticking to her skin from the wet mud, the weird grace of her movements, and instead just say:

>>24631081
"You know how to make bacon?"

>>24631048
"Uh... I... did you.... nevermind. Thank you for the timely rescue."
Hop up to your feet quickly and brush yourself off as you say this.

Rolled 93

>>24631048

Roll for having the weirdest boner right now.

>>24631101
The waifu plague strikes.

>>24631048

"Well I guess that makes you...."

( •_•)
( •_•)>⌐■-■
(⌐■_■)

"The top of the food chain."

YEAAAAAAAAAAAA!

>>24631101
Can we consider that a crit?

>>24630877
>>24631016
"I'M GLAD YOUR'RE DEAD YOU FAGGOT CUNT NIGGER BOAR"

>>24631101
So does rolling high mean we AVOID a socially awkward boner?

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>>24631048
>Elf huntress fully straddling you as she licks the blood of a fresh kill off her knife

Rolled 9

>>24631181

No.

>>24631190

I'm holding out for our hot, crazy, brown, paladin, ex-wife who wants to interrogate us.

But back to the REAL quest. I'd say go with the bacon line and tell her about the situation with the mercs. Maybe she could help us filch that letter. At the very least we need another person running interference on them.

>>24631048
Ask with the straightest face we can manage if this is our first lesson in the hunting arts.

>>24631190
Don't forget the mud.

The mud is important.

>>24631048
Laughing "Well thats a good first lesson, next time can I get a little warning before I am the bait? Lets get this pig back to the tavern"

On the road back "Oh by the way this outfit is coming out of your pay for next week."

>>24631190
We should beg her to kill us so we die in ecstasy

>>24631235
Best dialog!

>>24631234
I do too... Although Sif and Miaya are oh so tempting.

>>24631250
>>24631124
just to be safe, I am downvoting those two outbursts

>>24631272
It's wasted effort I know the OP he'll ignore it either way.

>>24631272
Ignore me I mean

You think for a moment, and decide on exactly what you want to say.

" So, Miaya, do you know how to make bacon?"

She stares at you, face covered in blood and muck, and a blank expression on her face. The moment drags, and you begin to wonder if the witticism was wise.

She begins giggling, and you decide maybe it was after all.

" Tallius, I never took you for a comedian. That was actually an impressive shot, but boars have small brains and thick heads. Much better to shoot for the heart, or the eye. You have to go for a clean kill, or else you're getting personal with the beast. I like it that way, but not everyone can handle it."

You nod, remembering her licking the blood of the knife, and suppressing a shiver.

" I take it that was my first lesson?"

A grin you can only describe as predatory as Miaya kneels down to inspect the kill.

" Come Tallius, I made it obvious, did I not? Now help me carry this thing, it's bigger than I thought. Half of hunting is making use of what you kill."

You actually remember your father saying something similar, his collection of trophies revealed his meaning. Miaya is likely more practical.

" Well, it's bad weather for hunting. We should get back, Tallius. I am sure you will be in need of a cook before too long, and I need new clothes and a bath."

She has a point there. Being covered in mud and grime yourself, you hardly look like any sort of businessman.

You shrug, and help her carry the boar. Between the both of you, you begin to make progress. Miaya knows the way back, even if you do not.

Roll a d6 for what you find on the return.

Rolled 1

>>24631375
Something decent i hope

Rolled 6

>>24631375
oh boy

Rolled 2

>>24631375

>>24631398
>>24631391
Well then...

Rolled 3

>>24631375
Maybe if the boar is of decent size we should have it's head mounted in the tavern.

>>24631406

It should be noted these type of rolls are on a table, and not necessarily good or bad.

>>24631416
I like that idea.

Rolled 4

>>24631375
!

>>24631416
Only if it's impressive and she doesn't mind.

>>24631375

After a good deal of wet, filthy tudging through the woods with Miaya, you begin to suspect hell is the scent of dead boar. Nonetheless, you soon reach the edge of the forest, and come out in sight of the Tavern.

A red line moving across the road tells you that Reginald's men must be returning as well. Well, you don't mind, you can actually feed them with this much meat.

" Guests, Tallius?"

" Yes, some mercenary types working for the Capitol."

" Ah. There are worse, I suppose."

You tend to agree, and are about to when you hear a sharp whistle from the Rose Brotherhood.

" Turn face, men! Insurgents, coming out of the treeline! Form ranks, raise arms! Prepare to fire on my mark! Range in at 100 yards!"

Oh shit, are they forming a line? Why? And leveling crossbows!?!

They must think you and Miaya are bandits of some sort, covered in blood and muck as you are.

" Tallius, I hope you can talk your new friends down, the boar is the only one of us I want skewered tonight."

>>24631607
>>24631416
Depends on if it clashes with the paintings.

>>24631661
"For god's sake, Reginald, it's me, Tallius!"

Roar this out with your best projection. Come on, you were a senator, you have to know how to really toss that shit across a noisy room. "Stand down or Sif will be very upset!"

>>24631696
+1

>>24631696
+2

And at some point we really do need to bring Miaya fully up to speed regarding the mercenaries and their charge from the capital.

>>24631696
This, but without the mention of Sif.

>>24631661
"For God's sake Reginald if you shoot me you'll be sleeping in the outhouse, and taking your meals there too!"

>>24631760
Oh I didn't even see that part.
Yea no mentioning Sif.

>>24631762
>DAMN WE FORGOT TO BUILD AN OUTHOSE
I like this threat though

>>24631762
That's a good line.

Rolled 2

>>24631762
This

Rolled 1

>>24631762
backing this too

>>24631762

"For God's sake, Reginald, if you shoot me you'll be sleeping in the outhouse, and taking your meals there too!"

*Thunk*

A bolt buries into the ground mere feet from where you stand, quivering from the impact.

Reginald jumps in front of his men, his arms waving a marching baton.

" WHO DID THAT? WHO FIRED? TELL ME NOW!"

Silence for a few moments, and then some inaudible conversation. Likely someone confessing.

" That's thirty lashes, Private Rico! Lieutenant, take him to the stables and throw him over a saddle!"

He turns around.

" My sincerest apologies, Tallius, you can't be too careful in these parts! I assure you Private Rico will be properly reprimanded and give punishment duty!"

Well, at least he seems apologetic.

You hear Miaya besides you.

" Tallius, if he's here for Insurgents this is likely the last trouble you shall have from his hands. Best he and his men get on their way, as soon as possible."

Ah, well, it would have been nice to know all this several hours ago.

>>24631974
>this is likely the last trouble you shall have from his hands

Was that meant to be 'least'? Because I don't understand what she's saying.

>>24631974
Mental note: Insurgents = elves.

And if the merchant's family is elves... We need to talk to Reginald.

>>24631974
Too bad he's here for the week. Can't exactly throw him out now.

>>24632003

She meant exactly what she said. Read a bit more into it.

>>24632017
Where are you getting elves = insurgents? I don't see anything that inferred that in the posts

>>24632057
Human kingdom killed off a shitload of elves, relationships with elves are taboo enough to be blackmail, and there's been issues with our cook and our architect relating to human officials in the past.

>>24632017
>>24632024
Well we could get Sif or Martellus to go into town on a beer/grocery run to tell Reggie and his family

>>24632057

While elven insurgency is common in the wake of the Sylvan Suppression, Insurgents could really be of any race, and this far north they are just as likely men or dwarves as elves.

>>24632057

The sylvan uprising a few decades ago was lead by the elves and involved other non-humans. Our father opened the leader ear to ear, but race relations have less than stellar ever since.

>>24632087
>>24632132
>>24632149
Thanks for the clear up gents. I forget details like that at times

>>24632170

Of course. As always, I will answer any questions or criticisms you might have.

I still need a course of action.

>>24632017
>We need to talk to Reginald.
To be more specific: We need to show him a lineup of our people, and drill in his head WE ARE NOT INSURGENTS.

Think it'd be wiser to try and weather Reginald's attention for the week than to shoo him off. If he's searching for you, he'll likely be looking for a person trying to be a nobody in the background, a vagrant or a migrating laborer. The best disguise is sometimes the bright orange clown suit. Plus it could only help to make an ally with "flexible" mercs.

Softly whisper to Miaya:
"Men less suspect friends"

Try to give Reginald some ease with a nervous humour, so he knows that he's clearly put himself into a bit of debt to you but that you're not holding it against him:

"Well atleast bandit raids won't be a key concern of mine while your men are around, ha ha. But honestly I really would have put you there if your man landed his shot. Here get us some help with this boar."

>>24632222
This

>>24632222
I'll back this

>>24632222
Legit.

>>24632222
Dem Quads.

>>24632222
This

>>24632222
yes but
>whisper : "Men less suspect friends"
in front of the entire company? lets not, we can tell her that discretely later. And maybe phrase it less suspiciously like "they will only be here for the weak and then leave, we already made a deal".

>>24631974
>Private Rico

Not sure if intentional, but I would like to know more.

>>24632350
They aren't elves are they?

I thought they're still a good distance away?

>>24632222

You whisper to Miaya, leaving your eyes on the Brothers.

" Men less suspect friends, let us be his friend."

" You misunderstand, I am not worried what that fool will do, I am worried what he will bring..."

" I already made a deal. He and his stay the week. I cannot tell him to leave now, I already took his money."

She shakes her head.

" Tallius, I ask you, please be on guard. These are the sorts of men who bring far worse in their wake."

Worrying, but you made a deal. If you have one thing, besides your dignity of course, it's integrity.

You shout to Reginald.

" Well, at least we won't need to worry about bandits with you men around. But, honestly, I really would have put you in the outhouse if your man landed that shot!"

He laughs.

" Come, Reginald, get us some help with this boar!"

The officer comes over himself, perhaps seeking to mend any damage to your relationship, along with two other of his men. You easily bring the carcass into the kitchen with their help.

Reginald salutes, and leads his men back outside, you hear him mention beginning to set up camp.

You look up from the boar and see Miaya's grin.

" What?"

" Your first kill?"

" Yeah, it was. How'd you know?"

" You're still smiling."

She's right, and you are embarrassed for a moment, before realizing that she has already turned around, and is beginning to skin the boar, humming some tune you don't recognize.

You decide to leave her to it, and head upstairs to get this damned grime off of you. Unfortunately, there is no way to do this without walking through the Taproom, and perhaps disturbing customers, not to mention surely face Martellus' disappointment at the treatment of the clothes he provided. Well, you could climb to the second floor window...

>>24632401

Was originally going to be led away by a lieutenant Rasczak, thought it too on the nose.

>>24632510
[X] Climb to the second floor window

There is no way this can possibly go wrong.

>>24632510
>Well, you could climb to the second floor window...
As if we want to make an excuse for a broken leg, AND a fussed outfit.

>>24632510
[X] Climb through the second floor window
I mean what is the worst that could happen?

>>24632557

This is effectively a choice between personal and professional injury.

>>24632510
Is it still raining? you could at least get the mud and blood off before going in sopping wet. Also, the customers are soldiers.

>>24632579
The choice is clear. We must never sully the tavern's name.

Rolled 7

Roll for athletics
wait no that's stupid just use the stairs and explain it later

>>24632510
Onward to the window! We still have our dignity.

Out of shape, fat, tired (from dragging the board), its raining, and covered in slippery mud...
The only reason we won't break a leg is because we will keep on falling off before getting more than 1 foot off the ground. We might still twist our leg though.

>>24632550
>>24632572
>>24632598
>>24632640

You decide you'd rather risk a little pain than track blood and shit through your place of business. The side of the building has some hand holds in the form of creases in the wood and ornamental lantern holders. You can make the ascent, whether you manage to...

Roll two dice for strength.

Rolled 96

>>24632685

Rolled 46

>>24632685
This window has nothing on us.

Rolled 83

>>24632685

>>24632702
>96
WE ARE SPIDERMAN
>>24632704
>46
ALMOST

>>24632702
>>24632704

The climb is more arduous than you thought, a fact you attribute to your own poor shape coupled with the rain-slick surface. However, despite almost losing your grip at the windowsill, you manage to climb inside the room. Well, this is convenient. You had not given it much thought, but you have ended up in your own room, or rather the one you are using while Reginald has the suite. The iron bathtub from the suite is right there, and you waste no time throwing off your soiled garments and getting down to business.

A half hour later, you rise from the bath, dry yourself, and don clothes largely similar to what you had worn previously. You'll have to remember to have Miaya wash the clothes later.

The taproom is abuzz with activity, which is good, as it's early afternoon. Seems some other travelers have stopped by, as the bright red of the Rose Brotherhood is met by the dull browns and grays common to damn near every traveler on the road. Martellus and Sif seem to have things well in hand, and Sif places an order of drinks upon a table before walking over to you.

" Where ya been, Boss? And how the fuck did you get upstairs."

You not Martellus eyeing you from behind the bar, an eyebrow raised as Sif questions you.

>>24632914
Through mysterious tavern master ways.

Whisper to Sif "I soiled Martellus's nice clothing with mud and pig blood giving Miaya a hand, so I had to sneak past you all." Just to see if she believes you.

And back to business: if Martellus's isnt too busy ask Sif and him "hows the patrons and the stock?"

>>24632914
>I leave for dinner and we make the best decision and we get the best outcome

"I found our cook" smiling to Sif, dont give away our Tavern Magic, have an air of mystery about us. Walk up to Martellus and ask him how it has been going

>>24632914
"Come now! I am a man of many talents, and anything is possible for a tavernmaster inside his own tavern!"

Trollface.

>>24632959
I support this. We should waggle our fingers like a mock wizard as we say it.

>>24633014

I like this. Seconding.

>>24632959
I like it.

>>24633014
I hate it because he is the Dirty Dirty Cartsalesman

>>24633133
The cart salesman shall be our greatest foe. When our tavern has flourished, when the law has been reformed, when men and elves walk freely in each others company, when we have wooed back the embrace of our lost love... then shall we have our vengeance, then shall we purchase a sensible and modest cart at what can only be described as "a pretty good bargain!" And lo, shall he weep.

>>24632914

You smirk, should dear Lady Sif not know that anything is possible through the mysterious arts of the Tavern Master?

" I found our cook!"

" That's not an answer, Tallius."

You waggle your fingers like some charlatan.

" Come now, Lady Sif! I, Tallius Urist, am a man of many talents, and anything is possible for a Tavern Master within his own Tavern!"

She stares at you, the one eye visible behind her locks wide in utter disbelief. Then she smacks you on the side of the head.

You think it was meant to be a light hit, but tell that to your blurring vision, and throbbing skull.

" You know, Tallius, it's kind of worrying when friends disappear into the Automata infested woods! We were worried, I almost had Martellus scry you!"

You didn't know Martellus was a magician, or that you were anything other than her employer, but you get Sif's intent. It was only a few hours, though considering your location that's enough to worry, you likely should have mentioned you were leaving.

She looks aside for a moment.

"... sorry for hitting you so hard. You know I don't know my own strength sometimes."

>>24633258
"Think nothing of it Lady Sif. I'm sure the spinning bright stars will stop any moment now."

>>24633258
"It's fine. I was being an ass. On a more serious note, how's business?"

There wouldn't be enemies that close would there?

>>24633315
This and then go see Martellus about the affairs of the Tavern in our absence. How many people have come and gone, any trouble, etc. etc.

>>24633258
No, I apologize. Sometimes I can't help but jest. And what was that about scrying me? Martellus is a magician?

>>24633360
>>24633315
I do indeed like it.

Right well everything is order now isn't it? I think it's time to look into our business. We need a better stock of beers, an an actual stock of wine and liqueur yes? And I believe a secondary source of groceries is also in order. Maybe strike up the notion with Martellus and see if has any ideas.

While we're at it, hang-over remedies could certainly sell and help sell. Atleast see if Martellus can brew up some willow-bark tea for the worst gnawing headaches.

>>24633258

If we're going to keep them in the dark we need to start coming up with better alibis. We're nearing a point where claiming we're a fugitive senator would seem -less- suspicious.

Still think we should find the contents of that letter.

>>24633492
The problem is that the letter is still sealed, and we lack the skills to replicate the seal again after we look at the letter.

>>24633523
Actually, it's the Lady Protector's seal. Would we have the same thing on our signet ring or our dagger? Or would that just be our family seal?

>>24633523
Then we should keep working them for information. Not so obviously this time, and maybe try the rank and file for clues. We won't get as much but they'll be easier to loosen up.

>>24633613
The ring has the Sertorius sigil on it I think.

>>24633465
The best hangover cure is more booze. Just ask the dwarves.

>>24633637
>Then we should keep working them for information. Not so obviously this time, and maybe try the rank and file for clues. We won't get as much but they'll be easier to loosen up.

Then the best way is to just keep doing our job, being a friendly and approachable tavern master and sticking around while they drink.

People love to talk when they drink, soldiers doubly so.

>>24633492
Maybe we can play a drunken curiosity angle: down a few beers with Reggie and start some idle conversation. Then move it to sensational topics, tell him how special patrols have been passing with some important purpose, and how he seems related. "I figure it was a dangerous criminal on the run, but with all the hush-hush and your man-power I'm thinking maybe it's spies and rebel intrigue, eh?" Keep it frivolous and only tangentially relevant.

>>24633315
>>24633360

"Think nothing of it Lady Sif. I'm sure the spinning bright stars will stop any moment now..."

You think for a moment.

" ...Wait. Martellus is a magician?"

" They teach you things in Meridia. He learned some spells before he decided to be a brewer. I don't know, he doesn't like to talk about it."

She nods, and returns to work without another word. You decide to check in with your Barman.

" How is business today, Martellus?"

" Fairly good. The Brothers drink and eat as well as any soldier, and we've been getting some decent road business. No more rooms sold, but it's early for that. Stock is holding exceptionally well, I see no issues before our next supply caravan from Karth arrives."

" ...Are you a magician?"

He adjusts his glasses.

" ...this conversation is over, Master Tallius."

Well, that's that. The Taproom is fairly busy, but there is nothing you personally need to do. It's up to you, Tallius.


We'll be wrapping in the next few posts, and have a Q and A. Last action aside from time skipping here.

>>24633755
Head out side and contemplate in the rain. We've got nothing better to do.

>>24633755
Hang around, chat to the customers, just loiter in a Tavern Master-y sort of way.

Adventurers aren't the only ones who can pick up interesting rumours in taverns.

>>24633755
>He doesn't like to talk about it.
>Ask immediately.

We really are a politician

>>24633755
Raise price of drinks slightly. If anyone notices, blame the economy and the rampart inflation that is ruining your business.

>>24633755
Chat it up with the customers. We could do well with a reputation as a friendly tavern master, and possibly glean some useful information.

>>24633867

And it's nice to see that high charisma really coming through for us.

>>24633868
Our tavern is still far too new to be driving away business like that.

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130 KB JPG

>>24633755
>>24633754

Do this. Work the room using our AMAZING PATRICIAN ORATORY SKILLS.

>>" ...Are you a magician?"
As in not this.

>>24633882
>>24633849

Loitering around, chatting up customers or just listening to their conversations, is a pretty good way to gain information, you bet. You've got all day, anyway. Might as well get something out of it.

Please roll charisma, six dice.

Rolled 68

>>24633950

Try to reconcile with Martellus: "Hey, ok won't ask about that again. Let's talk about our booze variety, can we? For the hard stuff I think we need atleast a stock of whiskeys and brandies, right? You ever try your hand at distilling?

We should also have some decent to fine wines. Oh and definitely a sizable cask of good cider or twenty. If you can produce those I'll certainly won't complain, otherwise I'll head into town tomorrow to see if we can find a supplier."

Rolled 76

>>24633950
Time for nat 1?