Defenders of the Blackfeather - Tariff of Relkingham

[esparkhu]

Delornen’s seat of power is the small government town of Wyllea, where Founder Neelani, the leader of this land, resides in her palace. The leader of Delornen is chosen by Erathis, who sends visions to the chosen leader.

Although Wyllea is the government seat, the real power and wealth is in Relkingham, a port town that sides on a land bridge between two large continents. The Founder announced that Erathis wishes to impose a sacrifice tariff. This tariff would require that those wishing to cross the land bridge must make a sacrifice. Smaller groups, or those sending small contingents, are expected to sacrifice the hands or eyes of those who cross. Larger groups with bigger stakes must bring human sacrifices to the temple of Erathis. Many are skeptical of this because of the peace-loving nature of Erathis, but no one wants to argue with the holiest person in the land.

Unsurprisingly, the announcement of this policy has sent ripples through the easygoing and decadent port town of Relkingham. The citizens have already sent one group to Founder Neelani that attempted to express their distaste for this policy. Found Neelani said she would consider the request, but it has been a month and she has not sent word of her ruling.

In the time since the announcement, increasing reports of brigands and Vecnite cult activities have come to light. Citizens have trickled into town missing eyes and hands, unable to speak of what happened to them. Becoming nervous, Mayor Joren and Relkingham has asked to meet with your group to discuss the situation.

 

[esparkhu]

Meeting with the Mayor

You are well known to the mayor after dealing with the demon slime-cats. You are summoned to the impressive town hall to render assistance.

You are escorted by two guards through the lavish town hall, passing numerous statues of former mayors, town merchants, and elders. The simple opulence of the edifice bespeaks old money and a level of decadence not seen in most other lands. The guards open the doors to a sumptuous office, which is appointed with a plush leather chair, a handsome desk, stuffed animal heads, and a many cultural artifacts. You are greeted by a portly joll-looking man with a handle bar mustache, who is dressed in orange silk robes and is wearing far too much perfume and jewelry.

The man says “Thank you all for coming. Your bravery is well known to the citizens of out town. I can hardly imagine what might have happened if you have not vanquished those possessed mucus felines. Those ice fairies certainly are in your debt.

“As I am sure you know, these are trying times and the citizens of Relkingham are worried about this edict that we’re hearing about from Wyllea, as well as the violence and brigands reported in the land. There are rumors that an undue influence is at work upon the Founder, perhaps something to do with the Vecnite cult. I personally am suspicious of Phelycha. The Founder’s daughter is always hovering around her mother and she just seems too sweet to be real. I also never liked that half elf steward of hers. He runs too tight a ship, if you know what I mean. Even the high priest, Avonathemon, seems to be convinced we need to start this gruesome tax to please Erathis and stop the drought. We need respected heroes to speak with Founder Neelani, rise above this tainted influence, and convince her of the error of this new law.

“I would be more than happy to compensate you for the trip and any difficulties that might arise. We would be willing to offer 1,000 gold pieces if you would speak with her. I don’t expect miracles and you will still be compensated even if she doesn’t listen, but success in this venture would be worth an additional reward.”

 

[esparkhu]

Skill Challenge: The Mayor

Skill Challenge: The Mayor
Primary Skills: Bluff, Diplomacy, Insight Secondary skill: Streetwise

1d20 2=19, 1d20 4=5, 1d20 6=22

Initiative
Lindus = 22
Sena = 19
Hal = 5

 

[garyh]

Lindus Oakleaf, a graceful elf clad in dark brown leather armor and carrying a longbow crackling with energy on his back, steps forward. "Mayor, I assure you that the drought is not the will of Erathis. The rains that normally come to these lands this time of year have instead moved north due to the hurricane that struck the eastern coast last month. When we explain that to Avonathemon, I'm sure we will convince the High Priest that the will of Erathis has nothing to do with the lack of rain."

Nature check (1d20 12=28)

 

[esparkhu]

The Mayor responds "You misunderstand me Sir Oakleaf. You do not need to convince me or the high priest that the drought will not be lifted by this awful tariff. My requests is for you to convince Founder Neelani. I doubt your knowledge of storms and such will not do much good with her."

 

[garyh]

The dwarven woman steps forward. Serna Ironhelm's blue tabard bears a the symbol of Erathis, as does the holy symbol on a chain around her neck. The large, grim looking axe on her back and the dark gray scale armor she wears indicate she's more than just a preacher, though.

"You Honor, you can count on us. After all we did rid the town of those gooey infernal felines," Sena says. "Our assistance is exactly what will solve this new problem, and with your suggestions on possible masterminds, I'm sure we'll get back to the peace of Erathis soon."

Diplomacy check (1d20 10=14)

 

[esparkhu]

The Mayor looks skeptical. I appreciate your efforts Madam Dwarf. Of course, I have heard rumors of your exploits with those nasty cats, but honestly I don't really believe them. How could you possibly have known about their ten nipples? Let's say I'm just not convinced.

 

[garyh]

The final member of the Defenders of the Black Feather steps forward. Hal Carter is a tall, well-built human man, wearing stout black scale armor, a large sword on his hip, and a broad shield on his back.

"Look, Mayor," Hal says, "word on the street is that brigand activity has grown since this toll started. If we're going to help, we could certainly use some additional funds to upgrade our equipment."

Streetwise (1d20 7=10)

 

[esparkhu]

The mayor smiles at you. "I appreciate what you are saying my friend. I too was once a street savvy young man, although, as you can see, I have changed some since then." Chuckles some and holds his bulging belly.

"Since you seem to understand something about the ways of the world, let me fill you in on some information. A series of secret tunnels links many of the towns in Delornen. They are mostly used by smugglers, but can also be helpful in getting around the country quickly. You never know when they might come in handy."

 

[garyh]

"That sounds very useful, Mayor," Lindus says, "and it sounds like might know where the entrance to these tunnels is here in Relkingham."

Insight check (1d20+5=21)