Xoblob, I'm so sorry about this. We're a work in progress here - I'm sure you can understand, having built up such a magnificent shop. I'll get Lok here sorted out - thanks for your time.
I'll be back with the ring. Would you mind keeping an eye out for any other items that you think might help me in my journey of investigating, detecting, and conquesting - that would be hugely appreciated. Even without this ring, I can tell that we are men of a kind - we like awesome items. And I'd like to bring the world to your items - and then the world to your shop.
Are you looking for any outside investors? Need anything for lunch?
I'll be back with the ring. Would you mind keeping an eye out for any other items that you think might help me in my journey of investigating, detecting, and conquesting - that would be hugely appreciated. Even without this ring, I can tell that we are men of a kind - we like awesome items. And I'd like to bring the world to your items - and then the world to your shop.
Are you looking for any outside investors? Need anything for lunch?
VashTheStampede
Sorry Jawneh
Xoblob, momentarily taken aback by the unexpected offer of investment, strokes his purple beard thoughtfully. "Well, that's quite the proposition, Mr. Zine," he says with a hint of surprise in his voice. "I must admit, the idea of expanding or diversifying has crossed my mind from time to time. However, my shop is my own little world, and I've been cautious about changing the balance. That being said, I'm not opposed to discussing potential opportunities. Your offer is most intriguing, and I'd be interested in hearing more about what you have in mind."
As for the offer of lunch, Xoblob's eyes light up with delight. "And as for lunch, that's very kind of you! I rarely have the chance to step away during the day. If it's not too much trouble, I have a fondness for the smoked salmon from the Skewered Dragon nearby. It's a simple pleasure, but one I enjoy greatly."
As for the offer of lunch, Xoblob's eyes light up with delight. "And as for lunch, that's very kind of you! I rarely have the chance to step away during the day. If it's not too much trouble, I have a fondness for the smoked salmon from the Skewered Dragon nearby. It's a simple pleasure, but one I enjoy greatly."
Cookie's head turns at the sound of smoked salmon.
I love smoked salmon! What kind of seasoning do they use? What do the serve it with? We were on our way to the Skewered Dragon ourselves! We are looking for a friend of a friend. Do you know of a Mr. Floon? He's friend is very worried about him.
I love smoked salmon! What kind of seasoning do they use? What do the serve it with? We were on our way to the Skewered Dragon ourselves! We are looking for a friend of a friend. Do you know of a Mr. Floon? He's friend is very worried about him.
VashTheStampede
Sorry Jawneh
"The salmon is first cured with a mixture of salt, sugar, and a touch of dill, which helps to draw out the moisture and infuse it with flavor. After the curing process, it's rinsed and then smoked over cherry wood, which gives it that distinctive, rich taste and a lovely, delicate texture," Xoblob explains, clearly savoring the memory of the dish.
"As for serving, it's quite versatile, but I personally enjoy it with a side of cream cheese spread on a warm, toasted bagel. A few capers, some thinly sliced red onions, and a sprig of fresh dill on top, and you have yourself a meal fit for a king—or a hungry shopkeeper," he adds with a chuckle.
"As for your friend's friend...Floon you say?" Xoblob muses, tapping his chin. "The name does ring a bell, though I can't say he's frequented my shop. However, I do hear bits and pieces of gossip from those who pass through. Floon is known to be quite the socialite, often seen in the company of various figures in the taverns around here. He has that sort of charm and charisma that draws people to him."
Xoblob leans in closer, lowering his voice as if sharing a secret. "A few nights ago, there was some talk among my customers about a commotion involving Floon. It seems he was enjoying an evening out with a friend—not an uncommon occurrence for him—when they found themselves in a bit of trouble. Unfortunately, the details are murky, and rumors in the Dock Ward are as plentiful as the fish in the sea."
He straightens up, offering Cookie and the rest of the party a sympathetic look. "I wish I could provide more concrete information. My advice? Keep asking around, especially in the taverns. Someone must have seen something. And Floon's well-known enough that his disappearance won't go unnoticed for long."
"As for serving, it's quite versatile, but I personally enjoy it with a side of cream cheese spread on a warm, toasted bagel. A few capers, some thinly sliced red onions, and a sprig of fresh dill on top, and you have yourself a meal fit for a king—or a hungry shopkeeper," he adds with a chuckle.
"As for your friend's friend...Floon you say?" Xoblob muses, tapping his chin. "The name does ring a bell, though I can't say he's frequented my shop. However, I do hear bits and pieces of gossip from those who pass through. Floon is known to be quite the socialite, often seen in the company of various figures in the taverns around here. He has that sort of charm and charisma that draws people to him."
Xoblob leans in closer, lowering his voice as if sharing a secret. "A few nights ago, there was some talk among my customers about a commotion involving Floon. It seems he was enjoying an evening out with a friend—not an uncommon occurrence for him—when they found themselves in a bit of trouble. Unfortunately, the details are murky, and rumors in the Dock Ward are as plentiful as the fish in the sea."
He straightens up, offering Cookie and the rest of the party a sympathetic look. "I wish I could provide more concrete information. My advice? Keep asking around, especially in the taverns. Someone must have seen something. And Floon's well-known enough that his disappearance won't go unnoticed for long."
Cookie grabs Ben by each arm and stares intensely into his eyes.
I am eating that smoked salmon today.
She lets go and turns back to Xoblob.
You are more than welcome to join us for some of that wonderful sounding salmon! Also, do you know of any shops around here that sell large sized cleavers or something of the like? I've used mallets a lot in getting a proper texture before, but never while also holding a shield and I feel my littler arms are not up to the task, so I'm looking for something that can be more nimble. I sadly left my best knife back at home and I'm completely regretting it.
I am eating that smoked salmon today.
She lets go and turns back to Xoblob.
You are more than welcome to join us for some of that wonderful sounding salmon! Also, do you know of any shops around here that sell large sized cleavers or something of the like? I've used mallets a lot in getting a proper texture before, but never while also holding a shield and I feel my littler arms are not up to the task, so I'm looking for something that can be more nimble. I sadly left my best knife back at home and I'm completely regretting it.
Obviously we are eating that fish. Let's go!
And thanks muchly for the info, Xoblob, we appreciate it. Let us buy you lunch for the trouble, and we can continue our discussions! We'd love for your perspective on the folk in the area while we eat, we love people watching, and don't spend as much time on this side of town.
Really, any excuse to keep hanging out with you Xoblob, I'm loving our time together.
Zine walks over to Lok sadly, puts a hand on him, and holds an orange beyblade towards him.
And thanks muchly for the info, Xoblob, we appreciate it. Let us buy you lunch for the trouble, and we can continue our discussions! We'd love for your perspective on the folk in the area while we eat, we love people watching, and don't spend as much time on this side of town.
Really, any excuse to keep hanging out with you Xoblob, I'm loving our time together.
Zine walks over to Lok sadly, puts a hand on him, and holds an orange beyblade towards him.
VashTheStampede
Sorry Jawneh
Xoblob, ever the font of local knowledge, nods understandingly, recognizing the dual nature of Cookie's request. "Ah, a meat cleaver, you say? Indeed, I might know just the place. There's a place not too far from here that should have just what you're looking for. It's a blacksmith's shop known as 'The Keen Edge.' They specialize in all manner of blades, from the finest kitchen cutlery to more... martial implements. Tell them Xoblob sent you—they know me well."
As the party gathers their things and prepares to leave, Xoblob steps forward, his expression a mix of fondness and concern. "My friends, it's been a pleasure assisting you today. I wish you all the best on your journey and in your search for Floon. Remember, the Dock Ward can be a dangerous place, so keep your wits about you. And do return safely, both for your sakes and for the sake of the items you've borrowed."
He offers them a warm smile, his eyes twinkling behind his spectacles. "I look forward to hearing of your adventures when next you visit. And who knows? Perhaps you'll have even more interesting stories to share—or intriguing items to add to my collection."
As the party gathers their things and prepares to leave, Xoblob steps forward, his expression a mix of fondness and concern. "My friends, it's been a pleasure assisting you today. I wish you all the best on your journey and in your search for Floon. Remember, the Dock Ward can be a dangerous place, so keep your wits about you. And do return safely, both for your sakes and for the sake of the items you've borrowed."
He offers them a warm smile, his eyes twinkling behind his spectacles. "I look forward to hearing of your adventures when next you visit. And who knows? Perhaps you'll have even more interesting stories to share—or intriguing items to add to my collection."
VashTheStampede
Sorry Jawneh
Well, with this ring you should have a much better chance.
This ring should make solving this problem of ours a lot easier. We can get more coin from Volo, and that will really kick off the amount of cash we can gamble with. Then who knows what.
How should we use this ring to gain information? We could do good cop, bad cop, polygraph test cop?
This ring should make solving this problem of ours a lot easier. We can get more coin from Volo, and that will really kick off the amount of cash we can gamble with. Then who knows what.
How should we use this ring to gain information? We could do good cop, bad cop, polygraph test cop?
"Hm. Well that's comforting to know actually. Could be pretty useful for confusing people or freaking them out though. Maybe they'll be less likely to lie if you make'em think you can already hear their thoughts.
...Gambling aint a horrible idea, but you better know what yer doin'. Because with all these gangs, you make one enemy and you might be makin' several enemies. Maybe we save that idea for a less dangerous town"
((Damn all this time I thought I was the Insight guy, but it turns out I'm the worst in the group because we're all proficient in it. I'm so unwise))
...Gambling aint a horrible idea, but you better know what yer doin'. Because with all these gangs, you make one enemy and you might be makin' several enemies. Maybe we save that idea for a less dangerous town"
((Damn all this time I thought I was the Insight guy, but it turns out I'm the worst in the group because we're all proficient in it. I'm so unwise))
((I'm just on Benzine's wild ride))
VashTheStampede
Sorry Jawneh
Before heading into blade shop, Lok casts Message on the store keeper. With a booming, powerful voice, says:
"This is God, speaking. The world is in danger, and the 4 strangers about to enter your shop are the only ones that can save it! Do everything in your power to equip them in their fight against evil and you will be beyond blessed!"
"This is God, speaking. The world is in danger, and the 4 strangers about to enter your shop are the only ones that can save it! Do everything in your power to equip them in their fight against evil and you will be beyond blessed!"
VashTheStampede
Sorry Jawneh
Upon leaving the Old Xoblob Shop, the party makes their way through the winding streets of the Dock Ward, their footsteps crunching on the snow-covered cobblestones. Their destination is The Keen Edge, a blacksmith's shop recommended by Xoblob for Cookie's quest to find a large meat cleaver. As they approach, the sound of metal striking metal rings out from within, a testament to the blacksmith's skill and diligence even in the cold of winter.
Entering The Keen Edge, the party is greeted by the warmth of the forge and the sight of blades of various shapes and sizes lining the walls—each one a masterpiece of craftsmanship. The shopkeeper, a burly man with soot-streaked arms and a leather apron, looks up from his work at the anvil, a curious expression on his face.
"Welcome to The Keen Edge. How can I—" he begins, but suddenly pauses, his eyes widening as if struck by a sudden revelation. He stares at the party, a look of awe slowly spreading across his face. "By the gods... I just heard a voice, clear as day, telling me that you're the ones. You're here to save the world, aren't you? And you need my help to do it."
Entering The Keen Edge, the party is greeted by the warmth of the forge and the sight of blades of various shapes and sizes lining the walls—each one a masterpiece of craftsmanship. The shopkeeper, a burly man with soot-streaked arms and a leather apron, looks up from his work at the anvil, a curious expression on his face.
"Welcome to The Keen Edge. How can I—" he begins, but suddenly pauses, his eyes widening as if struck by a sudden revelation. He stares at the party, a look of awe slowly spreading across his face. "By the gods... I just heard a voice, clear as day, telling me that you're the ones. You're here to save the world, aren't you? And you need my help to do it."
Lok gives a wink to his mates.
"Aye! We have been sent by the gods! We are but humble servants the the Almighty. We are in desperate need of arms. Are you able to show us your...special selection?
VashTheStampede
Sorry Jawneh
A smile spreads across his face. "Indeed, there are several pieces that stands apart from the rest—blades not just of exceptional quality, but of unique provenance."
He leads the party to a secure area of the shop, where he carefully retrieves a covered item from a locked cabinet. With a dramatic flourish, he unveils the piece—a beautifully crafted sword, its blade shimmering with an almost ethereal light. The hilt is adorned with intricate designs, and the balance of the weapon speaks to the skill and care taken in its creation.
"This," the shopkeeper announces, "was crafted to be the first prize of a local competition, a tournament held annually in Waterdeep to test the mettle of warriors from across the realms. It's not merely a sword; it's a masterpiece, imbued with enchantments to enhance its wielder's prowess in battle. The winner of the tournament has yet to be decided, so for now, it remains in my care."
"Would you like to see the second prize? Second prize is a set of steak knives. Third prize is--"
"You're fired!!!"
The door to The Keen Edge swings open with a force that draws the attention of everyone inside. A man, physically much different from the burly, soot-streaked shopkeeper they've been dealing with, steps into the forge. He's thin, wiry, with an intensity in his eyes and a gait that speaks of purpose and authority. The air in the shop shifts, tension crackling like the fire in the forge.
"I've had enough of this nonsense!" the newcomer exclaims, his voice sharp and commanding. The party and the shopkeeper turn to him, surprised by the sudden interruption. "You've been minding the shop in my stead, and look at the state of things! Selling replicas as if they were the grand prize itself? That sword is meant for the champion, not for any passerby with a purse!"
The man's gaze lands on the shopkeeper, who shrinks back slightly under the scrutiny. "I've wanted to fire you for your incompetence for a long time now, but you're my sister's boy, and she begged me to give you a chance. Well, I've given you chances, and this is the last straw."
"I'm sorry, Uncle," the shopkeeper stammers, his earlier confidence evaporating under his relative's disapproval. "I thought I was helping, bringing in more business..."
"By compromising the integrity of my work? No, I will not have it," the owner interrupts. He then turns to the party, an apologetic look on his face. "My apologies for this scene. I assure you, the craftsmanship and honor of The Keen Edge are of the utmost importance to me. If you were offered any misleading deals, know that it was not with my approval."
The owner, despite his stern demeanor, then softens slightly. "If there's anything you truly need, I'm here to ensure you receive quality and honest service. And as for you," he says, turning back to his nephew, "we will discuss your future away from the shop."
He leads the party to a secure area of the shop, where he carefully retrieves a covered item from a locked cabinet. With a dramatic flourish, he unveils the piece—a beautifully crafted sword, its blade shimmering with an almost ethereal light. The hilt is adorned with intricate designs, and the balance of the weapon speaks to the skill and care taken in its creation.
"This," the shopkeeper announces, "was crafted to be the first prize of a local competition, a tournament held annually in Waterdeep to test the mettle of warriors from across the realms. It's not merely a sword; it's a masterpiece, imbued with enchantments to enhance its wielder's prowess in battle. The winner of the tournament has yet to be decided, so for now, it remains in my care."
"Would you like to see the second prize? Second prize is a set of steak knives. Third prize is--"
"You're fired!!!"
The door to The Keen Edge swings open with a force that draws the attention of everyone inside. A man, physically much different from the burly, soot-streaked shopkeeper they've been dealing with, steps into the forge. He's thin, wiry, with an intensity in his eyes and a gait that speaks of purpose and authority. The air in the shop shifts, tension crackling like the fire in the forge.
"I've had enough of this nonsense!" the newcomer exclaims, his voice sharp and commanding. The party and the shopkeeper turn to him, surprised by the sudden interruption. "You've been minding the shop in my stead, and look at the state of things! Selling replicas as if they were the grand prize itself? That sword is meant for the champion, not for any passerby with a purse!"
The man's gaze lands on the shopkeeper, who shrinks back slightly under the scrutiny. "I've wanted to fire you for your incompetence for a long time now, but you're my sister's boy, and she begged me to give you a chance. Well, I've given you chances, and this is the last straw."
"I'm sorry, Uncle," the shopkeeper stammers, his earlier confidence evaporating under his relative's disapproval. "I thought I was helping, bringing in more business..."
"By compromising the integrity of my work? No, I will not have it," the owner interrupts. He then turns to the party, an apologetic look on his face. "My apologies for this scene. I assure you, the craftsmanship and honor of The Keen Edge are of the utmost importance to me. If you were offered any misleading deals, know that it was not with my approval."
The owner, despite his stern demeanor, then softens slightly. "If there's anything you truly need, I'm here to ensure you receive quality and honest service. And as for you," he says, turning back to his nephew, "we will discuss your future away from the shop."
Cookie starts to bounce up on her toes in both excitement and nervous anticipation.
I need a large cleaver! You see...
She pulls out her giant meat mallet mace.
this mallet I have is great and all, but I've realized I'm not used to using it one handed. I'm afraid my smaller arms need something more nimble. I used to have a beautiful large cleaver in my kitchen. So many folds in the metal. It could cut through a whole pig in two chops and still slice a tomato without holding the tomato with your other hand. Sadly, I left it at home. I think I could do much better at fighting trolls out of the troll well in the Yawning Portal with it. Do you have something like that? I'll trade you this giant meat mallet for one!
I need a large cleaver! You see...
She pulls out her giant meat mallet mace.
this mallet I have is great and all, but I've realized I'm not used to using it one handed. I'm afraid my smaller arms need something more nimble. I used to have a beautiful large cleaver in my kitchen. So many folds in the metal. It could cut through a whole pig in two chops and still slice a tomato without holding the tomato with your other hand. Sadly, I left it at home. I think I could do much better at fighting trolls out of the troll well in the Yawning Portal with it. Do you have something like that? I'll trade you this giant meat mallet for one!
VashTheStampede
Sorry Jawneh
The owner, eager to restore the shop's reputation for quality and craftsmanship after the earlier incident, nods understandingly at Cookie's request. "Of course," he says, his voice firm but friendly. "I appreciate your patience amidst that... unpleasantness. Let me show you what true craftsmanship looks like."
He moves to a display case near the back of the shop and carefully selects a piece wrapped in a soft, leather cloth. Unwrapping it with a reverence that speaks to the pride he takes in his work, he reveals a meat cleaver that immediately captures the party's attention.
The cleaver is indeed beautiful, its blade forged from the finest steel, with a shine that suggests meticulous care in its making. The handle is crafted from dark, polished wood, contoured to fit comfortably and securely in the hand. The balance between the blade and handle is perfect, promising precision and ease of use whether in the kitchen or in combat.
"This," the blacksmith announces, presenting the cleaver to Cookie, "is one of my finest pieces. It's not only sharp enough to cut through the toughest meats but also durable enough to withstand the rigors of adventuring. I've treated the steel with a special process to ensure its edge remains keen for as long as possible."
The owner, intrigued by the Cleric's proposition, asks to see her mallet more closely. Cookie presents it, and he examines the tool with an expert eye, appreciating its quality and the care with which it has been maintained. After a moment of consideration, he nods in agreement.
"Your mallet is indeed a fine piece, and I can see it has been a valuable companion in your culinary endeavors. I respect the sentiment behind this trade and your appreciation for good craftsmanship," the owner says, his voice conveying a deep understanding of the tools of any trade. "In light of this, I'm willing to make the cleaver available to you for half its price as part of our deal. I believe that's a fair exchange for both of us. 3 gold pieces for the cleaver, including the trade."
The blacksmith pauses at the question. He gives Nootie a thoughtful look, clearly considering his inventory. "A hand crossbow, you say? Yes, I believe I have just the thing. Give me a moment."
Turning away for a short while, the owner rummages through a storage area behind the counter, moving aside various pieces of equipment and weaponry. After a brief search, he returns with a hand crossbow in tow. It's a solidly built piece, with a straightforward design that prioritizes function over form. The crossbow is compact, making it easy to handle and conceal if necessary, but its construction promises durability and reliability.
"Here we are," the blacksmith announces, presenting the hand crossbow to Nootie for inspection. "This should suit your needs perfectly. It's sturdy, accurate, and easy to maintain—a no-nonsense weapon for someone who appreciates practicality. It has seen some use in the past, but I gave it a good going-over after collecting it. It will kill. Because it is not a Keen Edge original, and has seen battle already, I can give you a steep discount from the typical 50-75 gold most armorys would ask for a piece like this. I can sell it to you for 25 gold."
VashTheStampede
Sorry Jawneh
The blacksmith, nodding in understanding, takes the cleaver from Cookie to assess its size and shape. "A wise choice," he comments, appreciating Cookie's foresight. "A good sheathe not only protects the blade but also ensures the safety of its bearer. Let me see what I have."
He moves to a section of the shop dedicated to protective gear and scabbards, searching through his inventory for a sheathe that would perfectly accommodate the size and form of the meat cleaver. After a brief search, he selects a sturdy leather sheathe, its craftsmanship evident in the quality of the material and the precision of the stitching.
"Here we are," the blacksmith says, sliding the cleaver into the sheathe. It fits snugly, the leather providing ample protection for the blade while also allowing for easy access. "This sheathe is made from durable leather, treated to resist moisture and wear. It'll keep your cleaver safe and secure. 25 silver should cover it."
He moves to a section of the shop dedicated to protective gear and scabbards, searching through his inventory for a sheathe that would perfectly accommodate the size and form of the meat cleaver. After a brief search, he selects a sturdy leather sheathe, its craftsmanship evident in the quality of the material and the precision of the stitching.
"Here we are," the blacksmith says, sliding the cleaver into the sheathe. It fits snugly, the leather providing ample protection for the blade while also allowing for easy access. "This sheathe is made from durable leather, treated to resist moisture and wear. It'll keep your cleaver safe and secure. 25 silver should cover it."
"Hmm... I'm a bit short on gold. But I'll admit I got way more bolts than I'll ever need." Nootie says, pulling out his overpacked quiver. "Ya think I could talk ya down to 20 if I throw in, say 60 bolts?"
((I should have offered less lmao. Also that blue is near impossible to see on dark mode just fyi))
((I should have offered less lmao. Also that blue is near impossible to see on dark mode just fyi))
VashTheStampede
Sorry Jawneh
The blacksmith, intrigued by the proposal, takes a moment to consider Nootie's offer. After a brief pause, he nods thoughtfully. "A fair proposition," he says, acknowledging the Bard's resourcefulness. "However, I appreciate your honesty and willingness to negotiate. In fact, I'm willing to go a step further and offer you the hand crossbow for 15 gold. Consider it an investment in our potential future business together."
VashTheStampede
Sorry Jawneh
(( So, first you're going to have to attune to the ring. That's totally not a big deal, just the next time the party takes a short rest, lemme know that you're going to spend that time trying to figure out how to use the ring.
After you successfully attune to the ring, you'll get Advantage on any Insight checks you make to determine if someone is lying.
The ring isn't passive and its not 100% that you'll never be lied to successfully, but it makes it a lot less likely for someone to mislead you. ))
VashTheStampede
Sorry Jawneh
The blacksmith extends his hand to meet Nootie's. "Of course, my apologies for not introducing myself sooner. My name is Garrick. Garrick Ironhand, I opened this shop all on my own...oh, about 30 years ago." he replies, his firm handshake reflecting the strength and precision of his craft, as well as the accuracy of his name.
VashTheStampede
Sorry Jawneh
(( Just wanna make sure whether @Local Hero wants to do anything here before we move on ))
((Poor?? You have 80 gold. I think you have more gold than the rest of us combined. Is your character one of those rich kids that thinks a banana is like 50 gold?))
((I have visions of glory and eldritch blasts))
VashTheStampede
Sorry Jawneh
We step outside, likely heading to the Skewered Dragon, but definitely trying extra hard to take in the sights - not just for fun, but for our impending investigation. Zine becomes Floon Blagmaar... to the best of his abilities, anyway, he's new to this adventuring, detecting stuff, and has a lot to learn.