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<< september: maiden voyage >>

Welcome to our Maiden Voyage log for the game! Because the grand opening is a bit different from how things will normally flow, the log is more like an event log with the MANTA Board included at the bottom. The focus of the log will be everyone getting a first taste of the home base for each armada, but not before having a farewell celebration in Eltrut to the new initiates! Since it is a little beefy, we've included navigation links to help jump between sections.

Players are welcome to use the MANTA Board as additional prompts in the log, or create your own open logs for them. There is no wrong or right way, whatever is most convenient for you.

If you have any questions about the log, comment here. If you have questions about the game in general, please comment to the Game Info.

TOPLEVEL DIRECTORY (Updated September 13)

ELTRUT: FAREWELL SENDOFF

It's been about a week or so since the newest batch of riftfarers arrived, and now the ships are ready to take them to their native armada base. But before everyone goes their separate ways, a special "sendoff" is held for the new initiates. Hosted by older, veteran riftfarers and their respective armada affiliation, two major competitions are held. One is to promote partnership between the armadas, the other is for their competitiveness.

A fan favorite for a number of years now, Legends of the Gutsy Ultimate Sailor Warrior Competition is a massive two-person obstacle course that has a whole suite of challenges to test sailor's physical and mental resolve…and teamwork. The only real rule is each pair needs one Corsair and one Paladin, which can be made voluntarily or randomly. Along with crossing a pool via spinning logs, swinging and climbing ropes, and plummeting down ziplines, there are a few notable obstacles teams will need to get through.

🚪 Steering a giant ship's wheel in order to lift the door to the next obstacle. Both partners need to take turns, one spinning it upwards and the other continuing down.
🦑 They must piece together the three parts of the Silver Squid Statue, fitting each piece properly and vertically together (have to hear the snap to ensure the pieces connected!) and then placed it into a hole in a door to move on.
⛰️ The final obstacle is called Mount Grog, where the team must climb to the peak of this hill of craggy stone. While there are footholes aplenty, there are also steam vents, "landslides" of small boulder-shaped pillows, and warm "lava" of red-dyed ale, making the terrain slippery and sticky! Mind the steam and ale, they are made of strong liquor and may make those with low tolerance a bit…intoxicated.
🐱‍👤 While some are free to spectate and cheer in the audience, others may volunteer to try and sabotage the rest of the competition by chucking wilted produce, or if you're really lucky, the showrunners will pull you from the audience to hit switches to change up the layout of the map mid-race!

The second event is Capture the Flag and takes place along a long stretch of beach using the remains of two retired ships on either end: one with each of the three masts flying a red flag, the other with three blue flags. Each player will have a small flag of their armada colors attached to a belt on their waist, along with a few very full colored water balloons. The goal is to steal as many of the other team's flags as possible and bring them back to their ship before the hourglass runs out. The only rule is no magic allowed! Have to use good ol' wit and grit. All magic will be suppressed and all weapons taken/forced to be left behind.

💧 Everyone is armed with water balloons of their respective team color. Use them to pelt your opponents and get that flag!
🚩 Some may want to try and score big by capturing one of the ship's flags. But it won't be easy. There will be a "crew" defending their ships and will have cannons filled with giant water balloons, sticky nets, and life preserver rings to deploy against attackers. They can also use the rings to quickly grab their own teammates and pull them to safety.
⛓ There is a jail that caught opponents can be taken to right next to the ship. Either escape, help a caught teammate, or defend it!

After another night of reveling in various taverns (and likely getting into more bar fights), everyone will set sail the following morning, with or without the hangovers. Everyone should be prepared to pitch in their weight, as during the trip, they will learn how to be a deckhand, learning the literal ropes of pitching sails, swabbing decks, and working the galley. There could be other areas they might have access to if they have the skill for it. They will also have a chance to practice their magic. Don't worry, the ships are fitted with special protection that even a stray spell won't cause too much damage (though if it does, they better be prepared to repair and clean it up). And since it will take a few days to get to their respective leviathans, everyone should remember their temporary cabin number. Some may even have roommates.

But the number one rule for both ships is no fighting between members. Save it for when they're back on shore!

ELAH: PALADIN BASE

Compared to the bright colors and bustle of Eltrut, Elah is much more refined and orderly, especially the capital city of Baleen. Tall, sturdy buildings of polished marble and white coral with accents of gold and mother-of-pearl, set in tiered, orderly rings of sandstone-cobbled streets organized by purpose and class. The higher it is, the more affluent, with the Chambers of Council seated at its highest point. Yet there is very little to no poverty, as the citizens are diligent in keeping everything clean and everyone taken care of. That isn't to say there aren't "dirty" parts of the city…but for the most part it's a prosperous, bustling city that takes pride not only in its Paladin force, but in the arts and pursuit of higher education and research. High above one may see gondolas seemingly sailing in the air, but they are just riding the "breath streams'' of Elah that connect to the three blowholes spiracles lining the leviathan's back. In the distant north, one may even catch a glimpse of the main blowhole spiracle releasing a huge stream of water. Access is currently under construction, but new riftfarers will be able to access it soon.

At the center is the city's pride and joy: the Plaza Fontea. Around the outer rim are daily markets and performers to help cultivate the arts and casual business, and there are a number of gardens and ponds for visitors to relax and enjoy. And at its center is a grand mosaic in the great whale's image with a series of "water spouts" that shoot water up through the ground, sometimes to music. However, something is amiss. Without warning, the water is turning different colors and making fart noises. While anyone who might know some engineering is free to help those beneath the fountain to try and figure out what happened and repair it, others can try and catch the culprits who pulled this deplorable prank (hint, bunch of Corsairs, of course).

At the Nodding Kettle, there are some special items that new Paladins can receive. These items are also available on the Rewards Shop, but new members can choose one for free. These items are also special in that they will start at a basic level, but can be upgraded and refined for better effects (for a fee).

🔪 Dowsing Blade: Lvl 1. A short sword that once fully upgraded can find special treasures and precious metals. At level 1, it will only find junk, but who knows? One man's trash is another man's treasure. And rusted metal can still hurt in a fight—
🫧 Bubble Shield: Lvl 1. A shield that will grow in size and strength once fully upgraded and provide protection in the form of a dome. At level 1, it creates a small bubble that covers a small area next to the user and can only take a few hits before it pops.
🔦 Wayfinder Torch: Lvl 1. A torch that burns brighter and can illuminate and find any path to a designated location or exit once fully upgraded. At level 1, it can only illuminate up to a few feet and must be charged with magic to continue.

The educational district is one of the many prides and joys of Elah, and especially the block containing the sprawling, U-shaped Archives framing the massive, gold-framed glass dome of the Conservatory. The core of the Archives is a blocky building of very weathered marble, with two longer and more slender wings; nearly every room inside is dedicated to some sort of specialized library, lecture hall, laboratory, or archaeological restoration room. The Conservatory, meanwhile, is teeming with the rarest of plants, flocks of birds, skittering reptiles, and even small artificial tide pools hosting reef-dwelling fauna and small schools of fish. As new members explore the complex, they may find the new items will come in handy for their tasks.

📖 There's been intel of Corsairs targeting the Archives for their next heist, especially the special collection in the library. Newer Paladins will be asked to guard the library in shifts and keep an eye out for anyone suspicious.
🦤 Oh no, Angus the Dodo has escaped the conservatory again! Capture him and bring him back unharmed. Thankfully he's peaceful and not very smart, but he is easily startled and surprisingly fast. He's a glutton for fruit, nuts, and seeds, and he's infamous for stealing fancy hats, especially if they have feathers on them.
🏰 Reports have come in of a nearby island with ruins of an ancient castle standing on them. Venture out, document the site, and retrieve any artifacts for proper cataloging at the Archives before the Corsairs break or steal anything important.

NOGARD: CORSAIR BASE

While Eltrut and Elah both have relatively smooth surfaces to build on, Nogard's back is covered in jutting ridges and spines. Between the uneven terrain, the transformation between Nogard's living sea form and skeletal land form, and the demon-ridden forest, structures here focus much more on defense and ease of repair or relocation as needed than on matching a set theme. Buildings in Fang are made from a mishmash of old metal, driftwood, and bone, but are often decorated with bright murals and graffiti, drapes of colorful fabrics, and intricate sea glass creations. Taverns and pubs can be found on nearly every corner, loud music and cheers and more than occasionally the sounds of a brawl pouring out from about noon to the wee hours of the morning.

Currently Nogard has settled on a remote island, its skeletal structure nestled deep within the island's cove, creating a natural barrier that will only allow Corsair ships in and out. They will be there for a while, taking advantage of the beasts that inhabit the island and provide valuable materials to be sold. But of course it can get boring, so it's not surprising to see the more "reckless" ziplining from one curved rib to another high above the city. There are also some makeshift fighting arenas for members to test their strength. Those who prefer to actually learn about Nogard's current settlement set out to canvas and explore the island, hoping to find some other ruins or resources that could be useful.

At the Leviathan's Maw, there are some special items that new Corsairs can receive. These items are also available on the Rewards Shop, but new members can choose one for free. These items are also special in that they will start at a basic level, but can be upgraded and refined for better effects (for a fee).

🧥 Camouflage Cloak: Lvl 1. A cloak that once upgraded will allow the wearer to shift and blend into their surroundings. At level 1, it's a bit ratty looking and only useful if hiding in shadows. Even then it's only for a few seconds, but better than none.
🔁 Ring of Returning: Lvl 1. A ring that once upgraded will allow the wearer to return to a specific location upon activation. At level 1, it can only be used once per day and returns you to a public space.
🔀 Ring of Evasion: Lvl 1. A ring that once upgraded will allow the wearer to have increased movement speed and dodging ability. At level 1, it is only effective in avoiding small objects and getting through crowds easier. Not useful for combat until upgraded.

While there are some "respectable" stores and merchants around Nogard, the Black Market is what the city of Fang is best known for. And as part of their initiation, new members are sent to the literal underbelly of the leviathan's skeletal remains where the Black Market exists. Those new free items offered by the Leviathan's Maw may be useful…

💍 Several sellers have put up requests for certain "special rare items" to help restock their wares, but these items are "special" and "rare" for a reason. From needing to kill monsters on the island Nogard has settled on and harvesting for certain materials, to stealing from certain ships and rich houses in Elah (oops).
🏰 On a certain island, there are some castle ruins that has been recently discovered and there are some artifacts and relics that could catch a hefty price if brought back. Just ignore the Paladins who may be excavating…and perhaps take their finds.
📦 Some merchants have special wares that need to be delivered to their clients all over Nogard and on some neighboring islands. Of course, there are many others who might try to steal it…whatever is inside it. Wait—did the box just shake? What, protect the package and deliver it safely!

MANTA BOARD

As mentioned above, usually the Quest Board will be posted separately as we won't normally have logs like these. But for everyone's convenience, we've included it here for additional prompts. Players can either use the quest board here in their toplevels, or create their own open log for them if they prefer to keep it separate and spread things out more.

GENERAL

PALADINS

CORSAIRS

BOUNTIES

𝕊ℙ𝔼ℂ𝕀𝔸𝕃𝕊

» GENERAL (4pts)

Dockside Repairs

Reward: 100 dubloons and a serving of cinnamon sugar grog for each day of hard work.

A recent tempestuous storm wreaked havoc upon Eltrut’s main port, leaving many of its docks in dire need of repair.

We are seeking dedicated workers to lend a helping hand in restoring the damaged docks. We encourage those with specialized abilities in carpentry, construction, or any related field (magic, physical or otherwise) to join in the collective effort to repair the docks as soon as possible.

As we are not sure how many newcomers we will have in the future we must restore the port to its former glory, ensuring it serves as a steadfast foundation for our maritime activities! Please help out!

Seahorse Whisperers

Reward: 100 dubloons and a seahorse charm that allows you to bond with gentle sea creatures easily. Doesn’t appear to work well on the angry ones.

Atnam Island has been graced with the arrival of a spirited new batch of young seahorses.

These magnificent creatures are wild and energetic and difficult to tame. We are seeking daring individuals who are up to the challenge of calming and training these giant temperamental seahorses to become reliable and majestic mounts in the water.

Those who dare to embark on this training journey will be rewarded for their efforts. Alongside the profound satisfaction of witnessing the growth and development of these magnificent creatures, you will receive a special token of appreciation for your successful training.

Caviar Conundrum

Reward: 100 dubloons and one tin of orange lanternfish caviar. The caviar itself is said to induce vivid lucid dreams.

A fresh shipment of rare live orange lanternfish has arrived.

There are barrels of them ready to be harvested for their delicious caviar. We are looking for able hands to help collect the fish eggs from this rare fish. You’ll be equipped with the buckets and scoops needed.

However, be forewarned, for these fish are highly territorial and possess a potent electrical bite. Slowly navigating their space and avoiding their electrifying defences will require careful strategy and patience. The tales caution that even a single bite from these remarkable creatures can induce paralysis lasting an hour.

Woody Rarities

Reward: 100 dubloons and a piece of crystal wood that faintly glows when it is about to rain.

A cluster of ancient trees has piqued curiosity, as they appear to defy nature's laws by remaining dry during rainfall.

This phenomenon has caught the attention of keen observers, and we now seek crafty individuals to investigate further.

Venture to the tops of hills or mountains on Eltrut Island and examine these remarkable trees, and gather samples of their purportedly waterproof bark and wood for thorough testing. If proven true, this extraordinary property could revolutionize shipbuilding techniques and open new horizons for maritime exploration.

Bottle Voyage!

Reward: Probably some bad advice. Or a love letter. Or maybe a new friend?

Have you heard of messages in a bottle?

Embrace the sea's powerful enchantment! Pen a heartfelt letter, place it in a glass bottle and release it into the ocean's waves to see what happens.

Rumour has it that within three days, the bottle will return to you with a reply. Discover personal advice, fortunes, or messages from far away. Perhaps even find a lifelong pen pal through this method! Unleash your heartfelt words into the water and let the sea work its wonders!

Results may vary. (Optional: For added flavour attempt posting your bottle message to a random character's inbox.)

» PALADINS (4pts)

Paws of Valor

Reward: A voucher for a free dagger at The Nodding Kettle: Blacksmith and Wares.

Hello, aspiring recruits! We are in need of your assistance to gather iron ore at the local mines, a vital resource for crafting cannonballs to fortify the armada. Although the task at hand may be arduous, it is of utmost importance!

However, we must provide one gentle warning. One of our captains recently lost his pet wildcat, Whiskerbeard, and she has been left to roam freely. Whiskerbeard has a mischievous streak and enjoys playing pranks on new recruits. While she may pose a playful challenge during your ore collection, we trust that you young and agile newcomers will find ways to work around her more violent antics. Please do not harm her or your coin will be cut in half for an entire month!

Five Finger Discount-inued

Reward: The sheer satisfaction of doing the right thing.

Reports have emerged of pickpockets and thieves falling victim to a frustrated shop owner–turned–vigilante, resulting in severed fingers and a growing stain on the Paladin’s reputation for maintaining order among the various port marketplaces.

In order to address this issue and uphold the principles of justice, we need your expertise to delve into the local shops and uncover the truth behind these vigilante actions. It is crucial to identify the shop owner responsible as well as apprehend any theives and restore a sense of balance and fairness to the markets.

However, it is essential to approach this investigation with a focus on fairness and adherence to the law. Our aim is to ensure a just and lawful resolution, and a few fewer fingers being cut off, including yours.

Chasing Tuna Titans

Reward: A casket of fine wine. The bigger the fish, the bigger the casket.

The recent influx of newcomers has led to an increased demand for foodstuffs, placing a strain on our hardworking fishermen. To aid them in meeting these demands, the fishermen have requested assistance from the Paladin's vessels to catch a fresh supply of large tuna fish until new fishermen can be trained.

Join the fishing ships in procuring a bountiful supply of giant tuna fish. Be prepared for the challenge, for these magnificent creatures can grow to sizes ranging from sixty pounds to a staggering four hundred pounds. Good luck reeling them in!

» CORSAIRS (4pts)

Traded Secrets

Reward: A recipe for a dubious-looking soup made to be highly addictive and whatever else you steal from the ship.

There is a popular merchant ship that sells soup out of its main deck that is travelling the seas lately. Its tantalising flavours have ignited such fervent desire that people are willing to engage in battles and even sink ships to secure a coveted bowl. And you’ll be damned if you don’t get a bowl of it before it’s all gone! Find the secrets behind the renowned travelling ship's irresistibly delectable soup!

Surely, there has to be a trick to it. Begin by infiltrating the merchant’s ship, whether by legitimate means or through becoming a discreet passenger and find out what that secret ingredient is. What makes this soup so tantalising that people are willing to give someone a black eye to get it. Is it a frog's legs? Eye of newt? Some kind of illegal drug? Paprika?

Unconventional Couture

Reward: A silk dress of your choice and a pocket gun that can be concealed in a boot.

A renowned mistress from the lantern light district in Naughtilust seeks diverse bodies to showcase her exquisite collection of rare silks and gowns. Don’t worry, she disregards conventional standards and welcomes individuals of any body type or gender, recognizing the beauty in diversity. The more types the better, actually!

However, it is imperative to maintain utmost discretion, as these precious garments were acquired through unconventional means (they were stolen). This gathering is intended for a select group of haughty guests who will appreciate the opulence and allure of these clandestine treasures. So keep it hush-hush! There are dubloons to be squeezed!

Pickpocketing Practice

Reward: A lesson learned for every pocket picked.

With the influx of new scallywags on our shores, the Corsair ships have taken it upon themselves to impart their expertise in the art of pickpocketing. If you're ready to master the craft and enhance your acting, lying, and sleight-of-hand skills, then step forward and join their pickpocketing seminars!

Under the guidance of experienced Corsairs, you'll learn the tricks of the trade, honing your abilities to make a quick dubloon when navigating crowded streets or lively gatherings.

Remember, with great power comes great responsibility. As you venture out to test your newfound skills, exercise caution and subtlety. A successful pickpocket knows the importance of being undetected. The Corsairs will not come to your aid should you find yourself hanging around in the gallows. Or losing a few fingers.

» BOUNTIES (6pts)

Giga Mantis Shrimp

Reward: 500 dubloons.

Said to be as large as a horse with a sting as powerful as a hundred stinging jellyfish. This creature has somehow grown larger than most other mantis shrimp and it has been hunting down and eating the heads of male prey. Find this creature in the ocean and kill it before it hunts and eats more innocent sailors.

Read More.

✦ Size: Medium
✦ Type: Sea creature
✦ Strengths: Powerful pincers, Swift swimmer, Carnivorous, Stinging spines
✦ Weaknesses: Lightning, Sharp weapons, Piercing weapons

Horned Dolphin

Reward: 1000 dubloons. An extra 500 dubloons for the horn.

A rare dolphin with a strange magical glowing horn has been sighted in the ocean. Although some of the rumours are saying that the dolphin is merely a lost narwhal. It seems to only appear when the weather is foggy which makes it particularly difficult to find. Find it and record proof of its existence or kill it and farm the horn for an extra bounty.

Read More.

✦ Size: Large
✦ Type: Sea creature
✦ Strengths: Light magic, Swift swimmer, Omnivourous, Peaceful
✦ Weaknesses: Wind magic, Darkness magic, Blunt weapons

» SPECIALS (12pts)

None

Reward: None

No special quests at this time.

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

[ Can't believe Xenk keeps rolling low against these nat 20s, he doesn't stand a chance. But he does try, and that's where he will never fail.

Xenk takes off with similar grace, though 'catlike' is far from what you'd call Xenk's movements. He is expedient, not a single movement wasted as he dashes over the logs with swift steps. If his armor weighs him down, he doesn't show it. He's keeping time with Jarlaxle for now, but whether that will last remains to be seen. (It won't.)

His direct approach has it pitfalls, and it's sure to get him in trouble as they clear the logs and reach their next set of obstacles. Ropes for swinging, though the path isn't clear here. One wrong choice and he'll have to backtrack.

The pause to think, and plan, will cost him precious time. ]

[As long as he gives it his all, he can always hold his head high! No matter how many nat 20s get in the way!

He's got just enough time to really appreciate it, the sight of a man running in armor as if he were in naught but a shirt and trousers. It was always just so impressive, really... And concerning for his bet, he was kind of hoping that the armor would slow him down a little more. He's going to keep this in mind just in case he ever has to book it from Xenk.

The swinging ropes are next, and Jarlaxle doesn't pause for even a second. Deftly he leaps, snags a rope, and throws his weight against it, easily snagging the next one and clambering upwards for a better shot at the next one. Every movement is practiced and fluid, as if he'd run this precise course a thousand times before, and he doesn't look like he's going to slow it down any time soon. Hell there's even a delighted whoop as he swings to the next rope, as giddy as a goddamn child up there.]

[ Always good to keep an eye on the competition, eh? Xenk sees Jarlaxle advance and knows he can tarry no longer. He makes his decision and leaps for the ropes (yes, even in armor, he can do that) and begins a more measured, careful attempt to make it across this particular obstacle.

He can do graceful, but he can also do precise. Xenk focuses entirely on the direct path once again, serious as ever. He is precise as he leaps and stays in continuous movement, for slowing down will likely drop him in this state. The added weight of his armor means his swings on the rope go wide -- something he starts to use to his advantage to bound a bit farther, in hopes of perhaps catching up with Jarlaxle and shortening his lead. ]

[It really was fascinating to see Xenk work here. Not precisely the same as a charging bull, but the same idea was there. Well, straight as an arrow did tend to be the swiftest method, he couldn't fault him there!

Jarlaxle was far more maneuverable in his own motions. It was almost like watching a trapeze artist make their way around the ropes, one might almost imagine the brigand simply learned how to fly part way through.

The ziplines were fast approaching though, and Jarlaxle, as tempted as he was to do a little bit of showboating, opted instead to stick to the outrageous pace he'd already set. Frankly, it was almost showboating enough just keeping things where they were at.

... Okay a little bit of showboating, he couldn't help himself. Catching the final rope before the ziplines, he spun about to sweep off his hat, beaming as he gestured at Xenk with it in a flourish.]

I'll meet you at the wheel, my friend!

[And with that, he leapt from the rope, scarcely spending even a second on the ground before he snagged the zipline.]

[ Xenk makes it to the end of the rope section without missing a single one. He's determined, and driven, and he is relentless. He may have rolled low and will therefore lose this race, but he isn't about to look anything but flawless while doing it.

Unlike Jarlaxle however, he isn't so deft as to make the jump from one section to the other. He lands on the ground with a single hand to steady him (it's the Blade pose, I have to call it that,) and wastes only a moment to look up and ahead and see Jarlaxle already zip-lining his way to the finish line, so to speak.

He smirks. He hasn't given up by far. It will be a worthy race indeed. Without a word, Xenk hurries to the zipline and grabs hold as he lunges into it. The added weight of his armor and the force of his jump make the pulleys of the line screech with tension, but Xenk trusts in his will and in Tyr's guidance here. The line will not break simply because Tyr does not want it to break. And so it is.

Jarlaxle is still ahead, but Xenk is gaining ground. It would be a close call, with anyone else, but the drow has nearly more dexterity in him than Xenk has virtue. This is a foregone conclusion, but one that Xenk will see through to the end all the same! ]

[It was a good race against a worthy opponent, and this would be a well earned meal and drink, as far as he was concerned. Winning was important, naturally, but even more so: what fun!

The only thing between himself and one free meal was the ziplines, and while he still had every expectation that he'd make it to the wheel before Xenk, he wasn't about to hit the breaks now. Off and away he went with a kick of his heel, clinging to the zipline with a single arm. He made sure that he never truly gave the paladin his back, the drow's head turned just so to keep the other man in sight even should it only be out of the corner of his eye.

The zipline, for all it screamed and shuddered under the weight of Xenk's half-plate, refused to give way, which honestly might damn well be a little bit of divine intervention right there. He'd call it cheating but mid-race was no time to discuss theology.

The zipline terminated and he hit the ground running, keeping an ear out for the telltale sound of jangling metal and thumping boots as he darted for the wheel. With a crow of victory, Jarlaxle leaped to slap the closest handle on it, cementing his win and free food for him yaaaaay.]

An excellent showing, but just a few seconds too late.

[ Precisely! What could be better than a hard-earned win, and a job well done? Xenk reaches the end of the zipline with a loud clang and thunk of his weight hitting the ground, but in the time it takes him to steady himself, Jarlaxle has reached the wheel and claimed his victory.

Xenk can only smile as Jarlaxle basks in his win. The drow didn't even cheat!! Xenk is so proud. ]

Well done. The race was well-fought, and you proved a worthy challenge. Congratulations.

[ He walks over and holds out his hand to shake. He sets his other hand on the wheel. They're supposed to take turns opening it, right? Or they can just go. Either way works. ]

I shall reward your efforts with a meal, as promised.

[Look at him, pretty much a model member of society now, drinks all around. The hat was swept off to be used as a makeshift fan, though the drow hardly looked too warm. Chances were it was simply theatrics but also, it was a tighter race than he'd expected.]

You're an excellent sport, Xenk. Undoubtedly one of the better one's I've had the pleasure of competing against. What a fine race indeed.

[He placed the hat back on his head and took the offered hand for a quick and firm shake. Oh no, they're going to complete this course, he can't leave anything half done, and once he was through with the handshake he went to place it upon the wheel.]

Once we're through here, of course! We can't leave a job half finished after all. Push upwards upon it if you will, I'll follow through downwards.

[Because between the two of them, he was fairly certain Xenk would have better luck with getting that momentum started.]

[ Truly an honorable race! See, Xenk knew Jarlaxle couldn't be all bad. There are plenty of thieves whose hearts are pure, and Jarlaxle is proving himself to fall closer and closer to that lot. ]

Of course. It was a wager in good faith. Your victory deserves recompense.

[ He smiles as they shake, then sets his eyes back to the course. Nothing worth doing is worth doing by halves, after all! ]

Indeed. Let us continue our efforts together, that we might complete this course.

[ He happily takes hold of the wheel and pushes upwards, jostling the wheel and getting them started. ATHLETICS CHECK: SUCCESS! (25) It's no trouble at all for him, he's got +8 so he wasn't about to fail. ]

I would certainly agree! A fine farewell to this place, until we all meet upon it again. Who knows, maybe next time I'll be paying for your meal.

[He doubts it but the chance is still there! Xenk's push upon the wheel is a powerful one, just enough so that Jarlaxle doesn't have to labor too hard to keep the momentum going. That doesn't necessarily mean it's effortless, but a sight better than it would have been without the other man.

The wheel creaks and groans, and the door beyond it shudders and then slowly lifts, revealing the way for the rest of the course. With a heavy THUD, it locks into place.]

Lovely! As promised, this will be a joint effort from here on out. I dare say we might end up having one of the better time scores out of the lot with our combined talents.

Speaking of which, [And he was off yet again, striking out for the very next set of obstacles with a smile and a spring in his step] Time waits for no one. Along we go, Xenk, to victory and acclaim!

Only if you so wish, my friend.

[ Look at that, he got upgraded! But of course the truth is that Xenk will miss Jarlaxle too. Xenk has an affinity for rogues, ~~it's because he wants to keep them on the path of goodness, and they so often dance on the knife's edge of lawlessness and lawfulness.~~ ]

We shall see! Do not let your victory cloud your mind with hubris, for such way lies folly.

[ He says that, but he follows along with a similar spring in his step. He's excited to work together with someone as skilled as Jarlaxle. And their first joint task is... to put together a statue? The silver pieces lie scattered across the room. Somehow Xenk thinks Jarlaxle will make quick work of this. ]

It seems they wish for us to build some manner of illithid idol?

I'd like to think of it as reasonable self-confidence.

[He'd been kind of hoping for more obstacle courses, honestly. Walking in to see it's just a jigsaw puzzle is a little disappointing, not gonna lie. Hell, it's disappointing enough to actually make it to his face, that's a visible pout right there. Booooooooo boring.]

So it would seem. Oh surely that can't be it.

[Are they booby trapped? Is there a puzzle to get the puzzle? Anything? No? He's examining at least one of the pieces currently, trying to spot any sign of pressure plates or strings.]

... I'm almost positive that's it.

[And he couldn't sound more dissatisfied.]

[ Xenk grabs one of the pieces (the body perhaps? There's tentacles on it.) and steps over to the dias where a base and shaft are inlaid. The piece he holds has a hole through the middle, so one assumes this is the correct method.

He'd never find it boring to have a task to do, but he is somewhat surprised that there isn't more to it, after that obstacle course. ]

It seems so. Perhaps the formation of the idol is the challenge? Do the pieces repel one another?

[ He slides his in, the piece not quite slotting in correctly. Oh, hm. This might not be the right one. He pulls it back out -- the piece snags a bit on the bar but Xenk is a Strong Dude, he has no trouble wrenching it free. ]

Hm. Perhaps not.

It's merely a puzzle.

[He sounds so put out! He expected more! The pieces don't even push each other away! He watched as Xenk fiddled with the pieces for a moment, and while nothing particularly bombastic happened, at the very least it seemed they wouldn't be so easily slotted together.

He gestures for the other man to bring the pieces to him.]

Here, let me see. It seems there may be a precise fashion in how to fit them together, they won't merely snap into place.

[Eventually maybe, but there seemed like there might be some finesse involved in it.]

These will not be strong-armed into place.

You are not fond of puzzles?

[ Jarlaxle really does strike him as the type to enjoy them, though perhaps a more elaborate kind. Edgin seemed much the same.

Still, Xenk hands Jarlaxle the piece, then moves to gather what remains to at least make himself useful. Xenk is good at obstacles and traps, puzzles not so much. ]

In matters of finesse, I defer to you.

I'm quite fond of puzzles.

[He took the piece, and then the rest as Xenk arrived with them, still looking a bit put out.]

Interesting puzzles. Which this, [he gestured with the puzzle pieces, all three of them, two clutched in one hand and the last in the other] fails to be. Finesse does not equate to challenge, they're not even in remotely perilous places. I didn't even have to answer any riddles!

[He's almost offended! But he's slipping them together, his touch careful and light as he eyes up the vertical slots they fit into.]

Perhaps the difficulty was the obstacle course we completed along the way. I'll grant it this... It's fine work. Artisan craft. I'd wager perhaps mostly silver, though as to it's purity I couldn't say...

[That tone is sounding very thoughtful now, he's definitely not looking at the pieces the same way he did when he walked in here.]

... Check the hole where this is to be placed in for a moment. Is there a pressure plate?

[He's asking for reasons. Just Reasons. Not Important Reasons. Definitely not Theft Related Reasons.]

[ I need you to know that Xenk rolled a natural 1 on this Insight Check, so he's just going to assume Jarlaxle is asking for academic purposes. ]

It seems to contain a pressure plate of some kind, why do you ask?

[ With a natural 1, Jarlaxle could literally convince Xenk to steal this idol and he wouldn't even notice they're stealing it. ]

[RIP to Xenk's roll, one man's critical failure is another man's Big Buckaroo's Pay Day. He grinned, swiftly slotting the three pieces together in three swift and efficient clicks.]

Nothing of consequence, I merely wondered how putting this together might see us forward.

[He hefted the statue in one hand with a hum before casting his gaze around the room. Rocks... He's gonna need some rocks. Preferably one rock roughly as heavy as this idol, hmmmmm.... He nudges around a few nearby, before scooping a stone off the floor to weigh it against the idol.]

Is that the only weighted platform in the room? It's been far too simple after all, hasn't it? I'd hate to think that hole was merely a trigger for a trap. Help me check for any other potential pressure plates.

[Because either A: he finds out that there's more to this room than meets the eye, or B: he has one conveniently distracted paladin.]

[ Xenk believes everything Jarlaxle says, because a natural 1 is a natural 1. ]

It does appear to be quite simple thus far... I will reassess the chamber and see if there is anything more than all of these rocks.

[ He says this and points out a stack of rocks that are roughly the same weight as the idol, because that's how critical failures work. That said, Xenk is well and suitably distracted, paying extra attention to the other side of this room now. He really has no clue! ]

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