Welcome To Morgan Vale!

[badams30]

James sighs and says "I got a commission from the temple for my service, and was promoted to mentor the warriors and teach them swordsmanship. I loved my duty, and put the scroll on hold, and next thing you know, here I am." He smiles and chuckles at his wit, and continues "I reckon Spencer was the same way. We'd catch up occasionally, and we'd talk about this thing, but then we'd go on our way."

When you ask about locations he gets serious and taps his finger on the table. "Well, I'd assume the Misty Wood is the same Misty Wood as is down toward the end of the Tradeway... and Dragonspear. Huge forest it is. Not sure who'd have a home out there, but it'd be like finding a needle in a big haystack. I'd brought this to the attention of the priests in the temple, and they quickly told me it was a hoax and not worth what it was printed on. But one of the temple historians asked me about it, and after he read it, he said that the Warrior and Wizard of White part sounded familiar to him. He thought it was a reference to Sir Sigmund and his friend Rolthar. Sigmund was like yourself, a Holy Warrior. Rolthar was a wizard of some power and repute. They were quite a force for good in the Daggerford and south area. That was a long time ago, and that's all I know about them. Seems they faded into obscurity as time went by." He shrugs and says "That's all I really know. Spencer was a priest until the war ended, then he went back to candlemaking like his family. He was the smart one of us. I'd bet he has some info that I don't. You might find someone in Daggerford that knows more. And no telling what Spencer knows."
(you gather that James has no knowledge of your history and base of operations being in Daggerford. You recall the candle shop near the water gate of the city, but you can't recall ever seeing the owner or noticing the place other than knowing it exists.

[Spanningtree]

Nahin - Elf

Interesting indeed. He will say cleaning his uncles spectacles on his tunic. Ja, the Misty Forest is just southeast of Daggerdale and just to the south on the main road is The Way Inn, right on the edge of the forest. The inn has quite a reputation from what I have heard but I have not been there myself. If we should take up this quest I would think we start by finding and chatting with Spencer. Then we could check other sources in Daggerdale and maybe make our way south to the inn.

Taking a tug from his ale: We do need to see what lies in store for from our current benefactors though.

OCC: I found the inn in the FG atlas, I thought it would play in nicely.

[badams30]

Feel free to quote atlas type sources on the realms, but make sure they aren't post Time of the Troubles. Lots of sweeping changes in that era, and I'm not a fan of it, so we WON'T be using that. I prefer the original boxed set Forgotten Realms.

And you do remember that Daggerford Army area of responsibility ends just past Dragonspear, so the Way Inn would be a place you could go to easily.

[badams30]

James finishes his drink and stands up to take his leave. "I wish you all luck and may Torm protect you on your travels. See what Spencer has to say, and he may have some contacts in Daggerford that I don't know about. I do know that he had put more thought into this than I did. About 5 years ago he told me he thought he'd cracked something, but didn't elaborate on it." He bids you all farewell and departs, leaving you to yourselves.

Marcus is familiar with the location of the temple of Torm, and takes Grinkle there to visit his friends and mentor, who are happy to see him and his odd companion. Marcus shares his tales of adventure, and shows his mentor the nicks and scratches of battle on his treasured sword, a sight that brings a broad smile and words of encouragement from his peers and teachers. Several of the priests and two of the more senior Paladins of the order take you both aside and ask you questions of what you saw in the valley, and seem troubled when you mention the dead and the role of the Zhentarim in the whole thing. Grinkle gets his fair share of odd looks, but seems to enjoy the attention and soaks up the sights and sounds of the temple. Your former teachers pull you aside and inform you that they are prepared to offer Grinkle a spot within the temple. His good hearted spirit earning him a place to learn and choose his path. They praise you for your trust in how you've brought him this far, and assure you that it's your choice if he stays or continues with you - assuming he's okay with it. The rest of the day you mingle and enjoy the company of your peers, who all seem determined to learn how you came to be with the Hobgoblin, and what you saw in the valley.

Nahin steps out with Rory and Jayce in tow, navigating the finer section of town, where most any shop or specialty business can be found. If you desire to purchase anything, let me know exactly what you are looking for, and there's a good chance you'll find it in this wealthy section of town. Prices tend to be slightly higher here, but the quality is equally better.

As you all depart on your journey about the city, an odd trio of priests arrive at the inn, obviously priests of Tymora, judging by their curious dress. One is a Halfling, one is a one-armed man who has no hair visible (eyelashes, eybrows, or anything...) and an elderly man with his long white hair in a tall topknot. They approach the innkeep, who directs them to Han. "Brother Han! We are pleased to see you have survived the trials of the valley! Brother Baltus has requested your presence at the church." Han offers the men a brace of cheese and chats with them for a few minutes, and departs with them, telling you he'll return later.

Edwin has recovered enough to walk, and is anxious to see his family, and Dak volunteers to escort him to their residence, about 20 blocks distant.

You are free to venture about the city for a few hours, let me know if there is any special destination or actions, if not, reply and let me know what your plans are up till bed time.

[Spanningtree]

Nahin - Elf

Nahin will shop for magic. Specifically: bow, arrows, scroll of magic missile and/or potions of healing. Other than that he'll just sire see a bit.

OCC: Any XP awarded?

[kjc]

Jayce - Fighter
Although Jayce knows he and his comrades will be safe enough in this area of the city, he finds it hard to relax as he continuously scans the crowd for familiar faces. "I believe I may know some merchants nearby who can meet our needs. It's this way brothers," Jayce grins as he points down the street.

ooc: Jayce is looking for items/gear that will boost his archery skills. Also items that aid in healing...such as a ring of regeneration!

[badams30]

Meeting Day

After some late day wandering and socializing (you find no shortage of well-heeled Waterdhavian residents willing to listen to your tales) you retire to your rooms and sleep a pleasant, quiet sleep that you haven't enjoyed in a long time. You are all awakened by polite but insistent knocks at your doors, and find the innkeep smiling and with hot water and linens. "Good morning, Sirs. I have been instructed to rouse you and get you to your breakfast. You are to meet with some of the council this morning. They will be sending an escort for you in a bit. Here are some towels to clean yourselves up. Once you are done, breakfast awaits!

Once you get up and around, you find a large spread of piping hot breakfast ready for you, and an unexpected surprise - Therman and Edith Morgan, and their lovely daughter Isabel smiling and seated at your table. They rise to their feet as you enter, and you are treated to rounds of hugs and congratulations, and each of you gets a special treat of a kiss on the cheek from Isabel. Even Grinkle, who giggles and blushes like a schoolboy. Once you've settled in for food, Therman stands and says "We arrived late yesterday, Buck and the others have appraised us of what transpired. You have our thanks, as well as that of the people of Red Larch. And if you ever return to our fair town, you won't have to pay for a room or drink as long as you stay. Almost on cue, Buck enters the room. He's clean and well groomed, and for the first time you've seen him, not in armor, but rather a more plain outfit. But his trusty dagger and axe hang reassuringly from his side. He carries several sacks, and places one in front of each of you. Inside each sack is 60 platinum. Therman smiles and says "A bit extra, as a token of our thanks."

You have a couple of hours to chat and get yourselves ready to meet the council. The Morgan's tell you that they will be taking their leave, along with Buck and the other rescued men and heading back to Red Larch, trying to avoid the certain snows that are coming. They wish you luck, and urge you to come and visit when you have time. With a wink and a nod, Therman says "Lots of treasure and that sort up in the trackless north, eh?"

Any last preparations? Once you wrap up things with the Morgan clan, two wagons and a squad of soldiers arrive to gather you. The wagons aren't ornate, but they are clearly painted in the livery of Waterdeep, and you get many curious stares as you enter. The drivers welcome you and tell you that the ride will be about 15 minutes, and you'll be heading to the Hall of the Moonsea, a gathering place and feast hall adjacent the official buildings and garrison barracks of the city. As you arrive, there are two soldiers outside the large double doors who motion you all in. You enter the room, which is over 150ft long with long table and many chairs, and at the head of the room is a large ornate table with several people at it, including some familiar faces. One of the men is the wizard who rode with the cavalry in the valley, one is a Paladin clad in bright, shining armor with the symbol of Torm on it (the Capt of the Torm Brigade, and mentor of Marcus) a man attired in obviously expensive clothing - one look at him and something strikes you as familiar, but you can't quite place it. And 6 ordinary but important looking (I.E. wealthy) men, all with sigils of Waterdeep on their robes. As you take in the gathering, all of whom are staring at you, in strides a tall man in blue robes with a broad smile on his face, and he says "Welcome, Dutybound. Thank you for coming. We are anxious to hear your report."

Jayce, Marcus, and Rory recognize the man - he's Khelbun "Blackstaff" Arunson. Arguably the most powerful wizard in Waterdeep, and the only openly known Lord of Waterdeep.

(they wish to hear a report of what happened and what you found. You don't have to recap everything here, just tell me what you wish to emphasize, or omit.)

[greyarea]

Marcus looks about the room, his eyes locking briefly with his old mentor, and then looks directly at Blackstaff. He steps forward, never breaking eye contact, and places his hand on the symbol of Torm, as is his custom to emphasize that he speaks truth.

We, the Dutybound, have much to report on the recent happenings... he begins. He recounts the entire trip, emphasizing the undead, the servants of the Black, and the ghostly assistance they received. He tells of the accomplishments of each member of the Dutybound when it makes sense, mentioning Grinkle multiple times, to emphasize that this was a group effort and that all participated.

When he is done, he steps back among his fellows and waits for questions.

[badams30]

Blackstaff stands for your entire narrative, listening intently, as do the rest of the people present. He nods grimly when you elaborate on the undead and the grisly prison chambers, and you have his complete attention when you mention the plan of the undead to disrupt the north, and eventually be a threat to Waterdeep. A couple of the councilmembers ask you random questions about number of dead, description of Daltor, and in particular anything you know about the one called the Master. When you confirm that the Zhentarim are behind this in some form, it elicits a murmur of chatter and shaking heads. Clearly, this is shaking news to those assembled.

Blackstaff nods in approval and the assembled group at the table stand. He says with an air of authority, "Dutybound, approach." And he motions you to line up in front of him. As he does this, the Captain, the oddly familiar man, and Victor (the other mage) approach.

"The city of Splendors and it's people are grateful for your service and sacrifice on it's behalf. With this information, we should be able to blunt the nefarious purposes of the Black Hand, and with luck we'll learn more of their goals. You have made powerful friends with the city, and we won't forget your valor." He whisks a small polished box from beneath his cloak, and hands it to the Captain, who opens it, revealing several shiny silver medals on bright blue ribbons. He approaches Marcus first, and smiles at him in clear approval. "Fine work, Marcus. You are a credit to Torm, and the order. Congratulations." And he pins one of the medals on your cloak. He does the same for Grinkle next, patting him on the head as he pins the medal to him. "Little one, you are lucky to be a part of this band, and your mentor is teaching you well. Good luck and fair travels, Grinkle." Grinkle beams with pride, and he stands a bit taller as he glances at his medal. One by one, each of you is pinned, and Khelbun takes a moment to pin the medal on Nahin "Squire Nahin. Congratulations." Once done, Khelbun nods and applauds, as do the rest of the assembled. He says politely "I must take my leave and report to the Lords. They'll be interested to learn this. I will be watching you, keep up the good work. And before you go, Victor has some things for you." With that, he shakes your hands and is off, accompanied by the rest of the council members.

As you watch Khelbun leave, the man in wealthy attire approaches and bows slightly. "Good day. Please allow me to thank you. My name is Winston Grovesman. You men freed my Edwin, and for that I am in your debt. (hearing this, you can see that he bears a striking resemblance to his son Edwin) Jayce and Nahin recognize his name - he is probably one of the top 10 wealthiest and influential merchants in the North. "I don't know how to repay you, if it's coin, name your price. If you require something, tell me what it is, and I'll do my utmost to meet your request. Otherwise, I am in your debt. Should you need my assistance, or if there is something I can do on your behalf, all you must do is ask." He stands listening and waiting. Victor smiles and stands behind him, accompanied by two porters with several sacks...

Lots of long lines of text. Now's your chance to chime in.

[Spanningtree]

Nahin - Elf

Nahin looks down at the medal and then back up with a smile. Why thank you, what a nice gesture. He will take in the rest of the pageantry.

When asked for anything he might want he will reply: I have been looking for a blessed bow, maybe a scroll that contained a low level offensive magic spell. He will say with a shrug and smile.