Jerry Greystar (Chris1234)- Private Thread

[Chris1234]

{OOC: The "Sorry, no" is completely fine. Just making 100% sure Merrick didn't feel left out. Have read #4 and SO.}

Jerry squeezes Merrick's hand and smiles sweetly at him, saying "It's fine. Objections are not as mine and I think and hope we can respect each other's. If ever you feel sufficiently close or trusting of me, please 're-raise the subject. You are welcome to any spells that I have. But it's also fine if we never get to that point. Just never fret; just talk tome, yes?
"Now, lead on and tell me more of this place, please, 'til we reach the Toad."

[TristenC]

[OOC: right, just wanted to make sure the reasonings were clear as they would be common knowledge]

Merrick blushes again as Jerry takes his hand and ensures him that the offer still stands. It takes a few blocks before he steps back into the rhythm of 'tour guide' but the intersection with the Wayfarer's Rest jogs him back into the gig. The Wayfarer is my preferred stop. It is a little closer to the room i rent than most other places, and it has a good reputation. The songstress charges a bit more just because it can, being the first stop in town out of Skald. Many people who live there come to Harmonia for the festivals each weekend... Oh you'd love them. We must attend one before long... He grows a touch nervous, but continues as they walk along. So here we turn West just before my cousin's shop...

The look of the houses and even the street seems to degrade in quality almost abruptly here, not more than a couple of buildings off of the loop. More people can be seen lounging about in tattered clothes, and damages to the homes and shops is easy to find; with no apparent effort to repair. Merrick presses on through a star-shaped intersection of 5 roads with the brief mention that it is callled 'five points'. He leads Jerry to the dead-end of the road, just before the town wall. All of the buildings here are in rough condition save one on the north side of the street. It displays a well-worn sign in need of a fresh painting depicting a toad with one prodigiously swollen toe. There is a dim light inside, though the dingy windows seem to obscure anything specific. Merrick knocks, but there is no immediate answer. He tries the knob and feels it turn, unlocked.

He leads Jerry inside as A voice calls out e viens, un moment s'il vous plaît. A shadowed figure moves in the open doorway beyond the counter, but quickly resolves into that of an old man with wispy white hair. The top of his head is mostly bald and scattered with small tan spots and tiny purple veins here-and there. His eyes, one blue-violet and the other milky-white, regard Merrick with amusement. He wears tattered robes and one gnarled hand holds
The room is about 10’ wide, and just as deep, but the counter separates the far side. An old oaken door set in the center of the back wall stands partially open, and all manner of odd smells and bubbling sounds come from beyond, along with a faint lamplight. The front counter divides the room in two and is probably 4’high but stretches the full width of the room with no visible way to cross beyond into the back. Rows of narrow shelving adorn the back wall with dozens of books, nick-nacks, vials, scrolls, obvious spell components, mushrooms, small stone statues, lichens clinging to stones and who knows what else. Well, well... he continues in Elven, I keep seeing you in the company of pretty women... one would think you are becoming a charmer of some sort. he jests. He offers Jerry a small bow and speaks again in Harmonian; but she doesn't catch his words.

[Chris1234]

Jerry gives him a small curtsie and smale and adds, "I'm sorry, I didn't really get that last bit. I'm Jerry. Pleased to meet you."

She follows Merrick's lead, but will be happy to find out what's on offer, particularly spells and spellbooks, not least being any significant price variations.

Edit: And, a bit later on, to ask about the book that Mira had investigated..

[TristenC]

The old man quirks an eyebrow at Merrick and Jerry feels him study her features closely. Of course... my apologies miss... Jerry? My name is Rautant DuBuisson, he says with another bow. Welcome to my humble shop. I see you have found good company in our young Merrick here... he gives the male half-elf a conspiratorial wink, Take no notice of that small jest I made a moment ago. He is indeed an honest man... as much as any of us are. He chuckles a little to himself at the last. Now then. How might I assist you?

Jerry asks about spells and spellbooks, which brings an amused smile and another look at Merrick. Rautant presents a small slate tablet with various items listed in chalk with prices. When she asks about the book he blinks and turns to Merrick again. My my... that one is getting quite popular... I'm not certain if you'll be able to read it, but you're welcome to examine it... He takes a small wooden but hefty looking wooden box bound in iron straps with a silver faced lock from the shelf behind and sets it on the counter. It looks quite like an old wooden box that some men kept very nice cigars in, if an extremely fortified one. The catch isn't currently locked, and opening the lid reveals that the 'box' actually is a book, rather than containing one. The cover consists of two hollowed out blocks, double-hinged in the back so the spine is not damaged. The pages are old but fine, and the script is formal and written in an elegant hand. Several pages have images in bright inks and gold leaf. The language is totally alien to Jerry, and doesn't even resemble the few writings in Harmonian she has seen about town.

=====
Toad’s Toe supplies: (CW means it is in Complete Wizard, CB in Complete Bard, ToM tome of Mag. All of these should be on the purple worm site.)
1st lvl spells (100gp): Phantasmal Force, Sleep, Shocking Grasp, comprehend languages
2nd lvl spells (200): Forget, continual light, Past Life (ToM), ESP
3rd lvl spells (300): Alacrity (ToM), Protection from Evil 10' rad, Gust of wind
Potions: Healing (200), Extra-Healing (400), Polymorph self 2x(200), Invisibility (250), Oil of fiery burning (500), Oil of Slipperiness (400), Clairvoyance (300), Plant Control (250), Gaseous form (300), ESP (500)]

[Chris1234]

Jerry curtsies again, replying, "Thing nothing of it. Yes, it's 'Jerry'. May I call you 'Rautant'?"
She laughs freely, "Yes, Merrick is a good man. You have the right of it."

Looking around the shop, the half-elf compliments Rautant on his shop and adds, "I'd be interested in 'Shocking Grasp'; the harder ones are beyond me at this time. Unfortunately I do not have that amount of coin. Are other methods of payment acceptable?"
===> If barter, she asks if he's interested in any of: Armour, Colour Spray, Copy, Detect Magic, Protection from Hunger & Thirst. Failing which, any jobs or chores {OOC1: plot hooks? }

On the wooden box-book, Jerry enquires, "It is a truly beautiful thing. You are blessed to have it. What, if you please, can you tell me of its story; its origins?"

{OOC2: SO the writing is not magical writing of any kind? - Jerry can understand such at will, and, of course, most definitely does so will it here.}

[TristenC]

The old man smiles, Yes, of course you can. Call me whatever you like so long as it’s fit for print. he laughs at his own joke. Glad you like the place. I do accept barter in the unusual or magical occasionally, but I’ve no need for those particular spells at this time. The only job I have right now is gathering some alchemical supplies, but I think Merrick’s other friends are working on that one. Perhaps they would split the profits if you helped them. He suggests. When she goes on about the book, he nods in agreement. Yes, I found that some decades ago. Traded for it from one of the Vistani I think… he scratches the side of his head as if he can’t really remember. Beyond that I don’t really know, nor do I know where it came from originally. Mira was after it these last few days, brought the whole lot of her friends around to read it. She had to use that language spell to understand it…

[OOC: The writing is not magical in any way, only an utterly unfamiliar language.

[Chris1234]

Jerry gives Rautant a polite chuckle at his joke and a smile to let him know that she knows that he knows that she was being polite.
"Thank you, I will talk to them when I get a chance. I am very good with herbs though, so perhaps there's a possibility I could help you there?"

After hearing about the book, she adds, "The book does look extremely interesting. I would like to come back, probably tomorrow, to try and read it, if you wouldn't mind. Of course, I'd be more than happy to help you with some translation work in future, if that would help you. I'm especially good with magical texts. If I might ask, how did Mira know that you had the book? Chance? Or..?"

After this, she's happy to let the conversation peter out and continue with Merrick on any remaining sightseeing.

[TristenC]

Hmm... I don't usually need assistance in the lab... do you have any experience in Concocting and Alchemy? Regarding translations, the language spell is sufficient for anything I need. When Jerry asks about the book it is Merrick who answers, She came to the Silver Scale asking about silver... particularly weapons. Serath directed her here, as she had already searched in The Hall... She must have asked about something else... Rautant nods along interjecting, Savage Beasts, she said, when the half-elf winds down.

When the conversation dies out a bit, Merrick speaks up again. It is nearing lunch... I know a nice little cafe across town if you'd like...

[Chris1234]

After admitting that she has no real still in Concocting or Alchemy, Jerry thanks Rautant for his help and then responds to Merrick, "Sounds wonderful, Merrick. I'd love to go there for lunch."
On the way she asks if he's noticed any shortage of silverware around the town.

[TristenC]

Rautant thanks her for coming in and waves off her admissions, Even most magic users I've met don't. Think nothing of it. Merrick offers his arm in escort and leads her Eastward back to The Loop, then south and east along the main road. He looks at her askance when she asks about silverware, but then realizes what she must mean. Mira had been hunting for a silver weapon, and wanted to know why she needed one. Apparently one of the Vistani told her it would be necessary...

They continue past the Wayfarer and the Enchanting Lute, all the way to the base of South Hill. The T-shaped building looks almost like a residence from the street. Once the pair draw closer, Jerry can see far too many people inside for it to be a simple home. Merrick leads them inside. It was clearly once a fine home, but the entryway has been broadened and fine mahogany furniture with blood red cushions stand ready to accomodate those waiting beneath a small chandelier of silver and clear crystal. A trio of exits lead farther into the building, cordoned off by red velvet ropes. Each area seems to have a theme. To the Right boasts dark stained oak and Brass with hunting trophies and rich leather furniture. To the Lefit vibrant green fabrics and burnished copper adorn the polished bramble-wood furniture, with potted plants and magnificently painted landscapes skillfully distributed. To the fore lies a room of sky blue painted plaster walls bordered with wide white crown and base moldings, impressively intricate white wicker furniture, and white painted cast-iron tables with polished marble tops.

A tall Mahogany podium stands nearby and a very pretty young woman with platinum blonde hair smiles and greets them in Harmonian. Merrick blushes a touch and holds up two fingers to indicate how many they will be for lunch. The girl smiles warmly at each of them and unclasps one of three red velvet ropes, leading them forward through the white room. The food they pass is beautifully executed and smells delicious. The pair follow through a hum of politely coversing diners to the outside, where wrought iron tables and chairs rest on a marvelous redstone patio beneath a fine bleached canvas awning. A young man is at hand to distribute blankets and cushions for the guest's comfort. A low, wrought-iron gate separates the patio from the intimate view. To the Right towers the stately Harmonic Hall with it's own marble patio. Rising above the town to the fore proudly stands the the hexagonal stone walls surrounding the Meistersinger's Mansion. Fine houses and shops fence in the park-like area between behind The Hall, providing a feel of relaxed seclusion.

The hostess leaves them and they have only a moment to enjoy the intimate view before a server comes to receive their drink order. Merrick orders each of them a fine Meekulbrau and asks if Jerry would like anythin else as well. Once done, the young man comes by to offer them blankets against the mild chill or cushions for the ironwork seats.

[Chris1234]

"Vistari? I've heard the name but can't quite place it. Can you refresh me?" Jerry asks her boyfriend.

{OOC1: Entrancing description. Top quality; TY.}

Jerry smiles back to the blonde but says nothing.
"This place is really special, Merrick. Thank you for bringing me. Tell me, do you come here often?" Jerry inquires innocently.

"So that's the Meistersinger's Mansion? How difficult is it to get in there? You know, to try and find out about what I mentioned before," the female half elf ponders, brain rarely standing still.
After he's ordered drinks, she whispers to Merrick, "Well, there is one thing I would like, but this isn't the place, is it?" She raises her eyebrows twice and runs her hand over his thigh. "Oh and if they offer, I'd like a cushion and a blanket. But will you do the talking? I still feel a awkward not being able to speak."

{OOC2: Having a spare language proficiency slot, how long is that likely to take to fill? I'd kind of assumed that the slot could be filled in more or less the same manner as a WP slot. Anyway, if it's no faster than anyone without that capability (spare language slot), then maybe I should just ask to back fill them with somethng random, like dragonspeak, or an elemental tongue.. Just a thought}

[TristenC]

[OOC: As I’ve said before, for Harmonian it would take at least a couple weeks in-game (far faster than learning it otherwise) and a fluent teacher or someone with 90% (but fluent is much better). For another language (one that exists on Faerun) we could say she has been studying it for years and just needs someone to help her get clarifications and some details, so just a couple of days. It’s up to you whether you want to take the time to learn Harmonian or try another. Honestly it’s intended to make navigating the area a challenge, but eventually you can get it without the NWP so it is up to you if you want to spend one or not.]

The Visitani are a group of gypsies native to Ravenloft. They are said to have the power to see the future and 'tread the mist'... he seems a little unsettled by the last admission. Mira has been half-posing as one of them in town...

Merrick obtains a cushion and blanket for Jerry and a cushion for himself. This is actually only the second time I’ve been here. Shortly after moving to Harmonia Serath brought me around for a lunch. Eating here is a bit of a luxury for me, so I don’t make a habit of it. He nods at the octagonal walls, Yes, that’s the outer wall. I’ve been past the gate when it was open, the mansion itself is magnificent… at least what I could see from the street was. I suppose you’d have to be invited, or one of the city guards to go there. The entire guard-force is housed within. It’s a massive structure.

When Jerry whispers to and caresses him, Merrick’s face turns beet red and he clears his throat. Has anyone told you that you can be quite frank at times? Latching on to the change in conversation, he continues. I would be happy to translate for you, as well as I can. Rautant is a native, and my cousin is fairly fluent after living here a few decades…

[Chris1234]

{OOC: As Harmonian is intended to be a challenge, [hadn't realised that tbh] I won't try to wriggle around the challenge. For the other two slots, how about Undercommon? And either Draconic or Air Elelmental? [Not sure which, if either, of these you're using.]}

"Hmm that's interesting. I don't recall having heard of the Visitani. The mist thing sounds like something I need to know about, but probably a topic for somewhere with less people around," Jerry comments thoughtfully.

After receiving them, the priestess of Mystra smiles at the provider and then thanks Merrick. "So, you've broaght me somewhere special. Somewhere where you don't bring all the other pretty girls that you know?" she teases, (fishing for a compliment too, of course.)

She nods again about the octagonal building, "Seems that I won't be looking around in there any time soon then. Fair enough."

"Me? Frank? No. I'm Jerry. And, my, isn't it warm in here?" she teases again and, unfazed by the mild accusation, gently rubs the rack of two fingers along his cheek. "No, my mother always told me 'Honesty is the best policy' and 'Those that don't ask, don't get'."
Continuing after Merrick's change of subject, "Thank you, your translations are marvelous. And that means I'll be able to keep you out of the clutches of all your admiring floozies." She chuckles quietly, letting him know that she isn't serious. "But I take your point, if I spend some time with either of them then I may pick up the language a little faster. Perhaps a good opportunity would be whenever I get to work with your cousin on bookbinding."

"So, what did you have in mind next?"

[TristenC]

[ooc: you're certainly welcome to take it as a nwp, it just takes tome to acquire since it's so alien. A week spent learning bookbinding could be combined with lessons, certainly. Undercommon or draconic would be fine. The language of air elememtals is too rare for now.]

He seems oblivious to her jest about other women, Oh, no I... I don't get out much... he stammers as his face continues to heat. He settles down a bit as she goes on about learning the language, After we eat? Well, I thought we might take a walk by the river near the bridge. It's really quite interesting if you like that sort of thing. Unless you want to look around The Hall. It's quite nice inside and parts are open to the public. the waitress returns with their wine and a small plate of snails stuffed and braised with butter and parsley. I've never had these before, but they're supposed to be a delicacy...

[Chris1234]

"Well, you try one and tell me what you think.. I'm not sure I'm terribly keen on the idea of putting something that wriggles down my throat," Jerry answers carefully, trying not to wince at the thought. "Oh! You mean they're dead already? Well, after you then..."

"Seeing the Hall would be interesting. But seeing something that you find interesting would be even better. So, tell me, what do you find interesting?" she explores.