INTRO: Meeting with the Council

[Fulci]

Jónas Gillman

Jónas secretly studies his future mates, stealing a glance now and then. His watery and bulging eyes stop for a longer time on Alec, the dwarf. Jónas has seen him before, of course, at the blacksmith's, but he's never heard him talk. The dwarf speaks with a strong accent, rendering most words only half comprehensible. "What if Rose finds such a manner manly and attractive?" he wonders. The visage of the daughter of the blacksmith occupies his feeble mind for the next few seconds, but then it's suddenly his turn to introduce himself!

"Jónas is my name, Jónas Gillman," he says. Luckily, his voice isn't trembling or anything. "I'm looking for adventure?" Now, this sounded less lame in his head, but it's too late to take it back. "And also to help the community, Saltmarsh is my home town, I like this town," he adds quickly.

[OGRE MAGE]

As you await the last few replies, you look around and notice the other four council members sitting at the long desk, two on each side of the Mayor. They are studying your answers and movements carefully.


Short Jack, wealthy entrepreneur

His real name is Jonathan Buckstars, but he is called Short Jack by nearly everyone. He came to town with his life savings many years ago after he grew tired of the merchant life and always being on the road. He purchased a fish processing company that doubled as a makeshift tavern for the local fishermen and sailors to drink after a hard day of work. (25) He turned his fish processing business combined with a seaside pub into a highly successful operation. He made so much coin that he bought out the shop next door and turned that into another exact duplicate of his first place. That also thrived, so he kept buying buildings until he had a total of six renovated businesses that were all ran exactly the same way. He is well liked by most people but some folk say that he could do a lot more to help out the town with all of the coin that he brings in for himself.

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[OGRE MAGE]

Niel Bisbong, Dirt Farmer

Niel may look like a common beggar but he is actually quite intelligent. He is the Mayors advisor on everything related to agriculture, food stores, and weather. He is not well spoken and usually only replies quietly to the mayor whenever he is spoken to by others. He has a small but successful farm outside of town that he works with the help of his family. He also helps out the other farmers as best he can in times of need and is very well liked by the entire farming community. Not a lot is known about the Bisbongs. Neil leads a fairly quiet and unassuming life.

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[OGRE MAGE]

Jewels Hardy, High priestess of the Temple of Istus

Jewels, or Juli as she prefers to be called, is a gorgeous young woman in her early thirties. She is a High priestess and commands respect as such but, due to her looks and proportions, she has had a hard time getting some of the men in town to take her seriously. She is VERY well liked by her congregation, especially the males. She has a huge heart and helps out the people whenever she can. Since she is so young for her station, a lot of people think she saw much favoritism on her ascension up the ranks of the priesthood. It is rumored that she started out her career as an adventurer when she was only twelve years old.

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[OGRE MAGE]

Tortuga, savage/slave/pirate/sailor/shipbuilder

It is said that when Tortuga was only a boy, he was captured by pirates and stolen from a tribe of savages on a jungle island far to the south. The pirates taught him the art of sailing and of pirating. He was an extremely quick study and took to the rigging, navigating, and to the deadly ship to ship combat like a fish takes to water. He eventually learned everything he could about the modern world, including speaking and then even writing the common languages. A shipwreck that nearly killed his entire crew made him realize the dangers of the open sea. He found his way to Saltmarsh only because of the kindness of some local fisherman that found him adrift at sea and nearly dead from dehydration and exposure. He is now part owner of the Shipbuilders and still works in the overhead mast repair building from time to time, just because he enjoys it. He is a shrewd businessman and has the support of most if not all of the sailors and fishermen from town.

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[OGRE MAGE]

After greeting you, the mayor takes his seat but continues scribbling into his book while he talks.

Let's see here, Uno Mei was it? How do you spell that, please? The mayor looks up for a second. Oh yes, I'm sorry. Mr. Niederlander. I thought that was you. Hello sir! So, you are the leader of all these young lads then? You say that your interest is to keep the farm animals safe? Very good! And whatever do you mean by help? That is what you are here for, is it not?


And next we have the charmingly overzealous Gallant Jervis is it? A boy who also aspires to be the groups leader no less? The Mayor smiles at the prospect. With Ermulf, son of Jormund? Did the two of you practice your greetings outside? The mayor chuckles a little. Well, luckily you are only looking into an old house for us and there shouldn't be any hordes from any netherworlds to deal with. You can stand at ease boys! Thank you.

The mayor looks around at the other 4 council members when Keilif inquires about his uncle and the recently uncovered abomination. He gets nothing back but blank stares. Well Keilif Zythanthus, humble fisherman, we will most certainly be looking into your uncle's findings. But for now, let's concentrate on the task at hand, shall we? You follow the ways of the Sea Mother then? He continues to write in his book. Very well, Keilif. Thank you for your willingness to help out your home town.

The mayor continues on down the list.

Ah yes, Vhing Cranepool, the racketeering half-orc. How could we forget? I hope you've learned something from hanging out with your last group. I also hope you pick up a few new traits from these nice boys that you will be with now. I hear that you are cooperating nicely with the jailers, let's keep the positivity up and if you are successful with your mission, we may be able to find even more lenience in your sentence.

Alec Thunderfist? We don't have many dwarves in Saltmarsh, how is it that I haven't seen you around town before? Oh well, no matter. Well met master dwarf! Thank you for volunteering your services!

Oooooohh! Another bakery in town sounds delightful! Greetings Burleson Sword. Wait......you are a Sword? As in the Sword family of bakers from Seaton? The breads and rolls from that place are to die for. I don't suppose you brought any with you?

The mayors eyes widen as he gets to young Jonas.

Good heavens boy! Are you sick or something? The mayor cups his free hand over his mouth to stop any possible germs from entering. Jonas Gillman you say. I am glad that you like it here, Jonas. We all like it here very much too. And thank you for volunteering. Are you sure you are feeling ok, son?

The mayor waves his hand in front of his face to fan away the invisible germs.

Does the brave lad with the loudly snoring uncle have a name and a reason for being here? And what about you young sailor?

The mayor and his fellow council members continue to visually size up your group while they wait for the final responses.

Do any of you have questions pertaining to this mission we are asking you to complete for us?

[Mant72]

Keilif Zythanthus:

Keilif continues to address the Council in a most respectful tone, "Yes, your honor. I, and my family, follow the path of the Sea Mother. May she smile upon our upcoming endeavor." He proceeds to make a five pointed star-like gesture over his chest which is common to those devoted to Shileil. The pattern represents the starfish, which is her holy symbol. Keilif then presses on, "Being a citizen of Saltmarsh all of my life, I have heard some of the rumors surrounding the old manor, but could you elaborate on any of the occurrences of late and tell us about the history of the place?"

Does Keilif know if his Uncle Darn told the Council about the episode on the beach? Can Keilif tell if the council members seem to be tight-lipped and holding something back?

[OGRE MAGE]

Darn said he would tell the council but you don't know if he did yet. The council members don't seem tight lipped in the least which makes you believe that they don't know what you are talking about.

[Fulci]

Jónas Gillman

The mayors eyes widen as he gets to young Jonas.

Good heavens boy! Are you sick or something? The mayor cups his free hand over his mouth to stop any possible germs from entering. Jonas Gillman you say. I am glad that you like it here, Jonas. We all like it here very much too. And thank you for volunteering. Are you sure you are feeling ok, son?

The mayor waves his hand in front of his face to fan away the invisible germs.

Jónas is used to such reactions to his appearance. That doesn't mean he's not annoyed by it, of course.
"I'm feeling okay, sir, perfectly, thank you for your concern. It's only my, ummm, looks, I have a pale face I know, but I'm a good worker, capable of many things," he says qiuckly.

He glances at Tortuga, the morose owner of the Shipbuilders.
"Guv'nor Tortuga can tell you that! I worked at some sails and whatnot at his shop a few times. He can tell you, I'm good at things. I have the muscle and will in me, it's just not very visible."

[coil23]

Doubtful

By help I only meant some supplies for the newer folk, Mr. Mayor. But Keilif brings up a good point. Some words on the history as well as recent happenings would be useful, and not just for the new ones of us. You know, forearmed is forewarned or...however that goes.

* awkward pause*

We'll talk to others too but just to get some starting direction.

Doubtful stares at the floor a few moments, starting to wonder at the wisdom of even coming here in front of the council. Staring at us is doing no damn good, that's for sure. Well, the farm may be a good starting point after we talk to some people. You know...if I reinforce the fence at those two spots on the east side then that may take care of that whole rickety section...huh...

[hedgeknight]

Oooooohh! Another bakery in town sounds delightful! Greetings Burleson Sword. Wait......you are a Sword? As in the Sword family of bakers from Seaton? The breads and rolls from that place are to die for. I don't suppose you brought any with you?

Burly blushes at the praise and then frowns as he answers the Mayor. "Sorry to say, m'lord, I do not. That is why I want to help with this venture > to get enough coin to start up the bakery. I can make 'em just like my Pa."

[OGRE MAGE]

Jónas Gillman

He glances at Tortuga, the morose owner of the Shipbuilders.
"Guv'nor Tortuga can tell you that! I worked at some sails and whatnot at his shop a few times. He can tell you, I'm good at things. I have the muscle and will in me, it's just not very visible."

Tortuga stands up and takes a long look at Jonas.
Hello there Jonas! How are you son? How is your mother doing?

Mayor, Council members, I know this young man. He would make a fine addition to any group. He is smart, very smart, and great with his fingers too. His skills with the needle are very impressive, especially for his age. He is a better worker than most of my full time employees that have been repairing sails for many years.

Tortuga smiles awkwardly and sits back down.

[OGRE MAGE]

Because this part is mostly informational, I feel that we can continue on without having to hear from each player. Please feel free to jump in anytime you want with questions or comments to the council. (This won't happen in actual gameplay. Once I call for "actions", you will each be required to make a post before I continue.)


The council meeting continues...

A quick look of disappointment crosses the Mayors face when he hears Burly say that there are no fresh pies or rolls for them to consume at this time. He does give the man a smile for his brazen determination, however.

He then addresses Doubtful.
We have no intention of equipping you at this time. However, if your findings prove that more actions need to be taken, we might be able to help with some minor things in the future.

They council listens intently to your questions and comments.

Ah yes, the history of the place. Great idea!

The mansion was built several years ago for an old man that was a complete stranger to this town. Nobody really knew who he was and he never came around much. He had a bit of a sinister reputation. It was well known that the old man dabbled in magic and made his fortune as a practiced alchemist.

The old man has not been seen in over twenty years now and is presumed long since dead. Some folks think he may have simply abandoned his house and moved on. Others think he went insane and committed suicide by jumping from the tall cliffs that the house sits on into the rough seas below. The majority of opinion is that the old mans ghost still roams the halls of his beloved home, scaring off any who try to intrude.

Although once a beautiful home, it has since fallen into serious disrepair. The building is now dilapidated and has a frightening, unwholesome appearance. We have received multiple reports of fearsome hauntings, ghastly shrieking, and eerie flashing lights emanating from within the house. Most of the reports come from folks that were out in the area and just passing by the place. We know of no one who has been inside the place recently. That is why we called for your group, to investigate the strange noises and flashing lights. It's good to hear that some of you don't scare too easily.

Are there any other questions from any of you?

[Stirling]

Vhing is leaning back against the wall, soot from his cloak brushing the furnishings like a shadow. Seeing a spitoon in the corner, Vhing clears his throat and speaks up.

"seems to me an old abandoned mansion outside the town should be no one's business. If something scary haunts the place, burn it down, ghoulies, ghosties and things that go bump in the night will soon move on. Unless someone has a vested interest in the place?. Before the faces get startled at Vhings pyromaniac suggestions, he continues raising his hand. "okay, no more needless blazes. Like the honest firemen we are, we all rush in while everyone else rushes out. I understand you want to create some Saltmarsh Academy. So we are the first fruits of Saltmarshs' young, brave and foolish. Well I have two requests, firstly furnish us with some kind of deputies badge. The authority to ask questions and snoop around on the councils behalf. And secondly,"Vhing looks at priestess Juli's 'jewels' and gesticulates at the group gazing lustfully in her direction."I'm sure the council don't envision sending young boys to their early demise, but I reckon most haven't had the chance to become full 'men' yet if you get my mean. At least give these virgin soldiers a beer. Last chance for a bit of brotherhood bonding before we head off into the unknown."

(Vhing pictures that moment from Shawshank where the prisoners quaff a beer on the jail roof.)

[Mant72]

Keilif Zythanthus:

Growing up around the raucous and bawdy sailors of the Saltmarsh docks, Keilif is accustomed to Vhing's crude style of humor, and he is typically quick to share in the laughter; however, he disdains the suggestive nature that borders on the inappropriate in which the half-orc addresses the priestess.

He raises an eyebrow at Vhing's suggestions then hastily speaks up in an attempt to return a sense of honor and decorum to the conversation, "What my...candid friend might lack in eloquence, he most certainly makes up for in forethought. His suggestion that we be permitted to ask questions around town holds merit. Now, I am by no means suggesting that we be allowed free-reign to infringe upon citizens' rights, but a document, a seal, or badge authorizing the Council's approval of such inquiries might prove providential in our investigation." He finishes up his thoughts asking, "Have any of you personally ever seen or heard anything related to the manor?" He patiently waits with his hands folded before him, hoping that he has returned the discussion to more dignified matters.

[hedgeknight]

Burly hastens a glance at the high priestess of Istus and wonders if all priestesses look like that. He feels the heat flush to his face again and looks away before he is caught gawking. He can't remember even kissing a girl before - weren't no time for it with all the work he was doing for his father.
Still, if he survives this venture, he will definitely check out her church. You never know...

But he keeps these thoughts to himself and lets the others talk. He's learned a lot by listening...

[ravenn4544]

At least give these virgin soldiers a beer

Ben the sailor pipes up at this after watching the goings on with a mischievous smile "Aye! A bit o' grog for us before we make way! Won't argue with that! I'll even toast to your health Tortuga - the salty dogs of the Blighted Fortune speak highly of you and that our ship is in good hands while she undergoes her repairs. Speaking of this haunted house and such - anyone in town we can talk to that may have a bit more information for us..?"

[Urson]

Alec

You say this man was an alchemist- does anyone know how good he was at it? Or perhaps whether he was a Follower of Law or Chaos?

Alec tosses a sneer in Vhing's direction, muttering something about not having been a virgin for many turns of The Stone.

[Fulci]

Jónas Gillman

Jónas' pale face becomes purplish for a second at the topic of virginity, his own version of blushing. Tortuga's mention of his mother doesn't make him comfortable either.

He gathers all his thoughts, gulps, and asks a question too: "Were there any disappearances there? Anybody going in the house, not coming back? Any suspicious activity around the place? I know our town is one of the gooder places, but things happen!"

[wolfpack]

Jervis whose atention seemed to be wandering snaps back to the conversation when the word Sinister is mentioned.

No doubt the evil sorcerer dabbled in the summoning of demons and there is a gateway to the abyss itself somewhere in that blasted abode. We must find it and stop it before it spews forth the horde of evil to devistate the good people of this city.

he says clenching his fists

At the metion of the priestess Jervis looks to her for the first time and seeing her beauty gives and akward smile bows.