"No problem, it's just that it ended better than expected..." said Qa-Ra as he took of his weapon of choicïe. "Too good..." he muttered as the inn cleared somewhat. He made a mental note to check his surroundings when leaving the inn. Then as he looked at the counter Qa-Ra was just in time to spot Ka-Vara pocket the septims 'That greedy bastard' he thought with a smile.

Following the rest of his party inside the small room, Qa-Ra paused next to the Orc enforcer giving him a friendly clasp on the shoulder. "See, told ya we'll be done quick!" then continued on his way in, taking the last seat at the table, next to Ka-Vara. As each took turns apologising menacing the non present Nords, Qa-Ra made himself confortable by crossing his arms and leaning back on the chair.

Leaning inconspicuously towards the Argonian he whispered in his ear, "You do remember we're all a team right?" after that going back yo his confortable position and let the Altmer speak.

Actions: feels something amiss about the hasty retreat of the nords. Spots Ka-Vara pocketing gold(will bring it up less gently later if necessary).

@Eklispe Actions: Call companions over, enter side room and wait and for Bildam to start talking.

No roll necessary

@rush99999 Actions: Take the gold and approach Bildam.

No roll necessary

@WittyWolf Action: approach Bildam

No roll necessary

@Regendorf Actions: feels something amiss about the hasty retreat of the nords. Spots Ka-Vara pocketing gold(will bring it up less gently later if necessary).

No roll necessary

-------------------

The Elf looked at Ka-Vara "Do not appologize, I am well versed in the ways of the world and the occasional troubles it brings." he paused, "and I am indeed Bildam."
Looking at Metosi, Bildam said "The matter at hand indeed." He nodded at the Orc who then stepped out of the room and closed the door.

Looking at each of the companions Bildam reached down and brought up a small box. "My master has called you to find him a substance of great importance to him. It is rare, not seen for many ages, until this came to my masters attention. This is Aetherium"


He opened the box, surrounded by black velvet pillowing was a small blue stone. It emitted a soft blue glow that shimmered across the room gently, within it seemed to be a slow swirling energy.

As the light filled the room Bildam continued "You are charged with finding more of it, as much as you can find. I will pay you One Thousand times its weight in gold. I care not where you find it from, who you take it from, and what needs to be ended in order to obtain it. As for where to look, that why you where hired. You have the brawn, wits, and knowledge to get what my master needs. Although I have some interesting leads to where to start."

Bildam piked up a piece of parer and read from it as the stone shown. "A kajit named Ri'saad, a wondering trader, was the one who originally brokered this marvel into the Imperial Provence, where my master came upon it. From him you could devise his source, if there is one. Secondly is the College of Winterhold, its library has been stoked for at least two eras, some record of Aetherium must exist there. Thirdly is the city of Markarth. There Dwemer ruins are being excavated, it is believed by my master that that lost civilisation discovered Aetherium. Any research or excavations may of uncovered something. Lastly, the Thieves guild in Riften. They buy and trade all sorts of illegal goods. No doubt some pieces of Aetherium has passed hands, sits in a collection, or is in a locked chest in their stores. They would be a good source of information, something you will need.

Bildam closed the box and the blue light faded away. "Any questions for me before I take my leave of you?"

Ka-Vara tilted his head slightly at the glowing blue stone in the box. "Aetherium" he said once Bildam had finished speaking "I've heard stories about such a thing, but I never believed it existed". Ka-Vara then looked up at Bildam when the altmer asked if they had questions. "I have no questions for you" he said "The kind of payment your master is offering makes this a no questions asked job in my opinion. Though I'm not sure my associates will feel likewise". With that said, Ka-Vara leaned back on his chair, finished off his sweet rolls and awaited the end of this conversation.

Actions: Wait.

Metosi pondered the new information. It seemed an easy enough task, but where the group attained the material from would be the riskier of ventures. And that gem! If he could, Metosi would enjoy studying the stones and the source of that light. It must contain a unique energy to garner such desire for the crystal. "You know the trader's name, but have you any leads as to where he usually peddles his wares? His known acquaintances? It will be impossible to track a lone Khajiit across Skyrim if we don't know where he's been or where he might go," Metosi reasoned with Bildam, wanting to narrow down where they might search for this merchant.

Actions: Question Bildam further about wandering trader

While initially he wondered how on earth they would be able to work together, and thus attempted to make some bonds with the group. At this point it all seemed for naught. The reason why they were four was because there were four leads.

Shifting in his seat as Ka-Vara spoke he leaned forward interlocking his fingers. 'I'll have Ka-Vara part with some of his lore before separating...' then Metosi asking about the merchant. 'Would have thought that as a Guild Mage he would prefer the College.' shrugging he thought something on the line of, to each his own.

As the Altmer waited to be questioned further before answering the questions received, Qa-Ra added his own thoughts. "The most important question here is actually how do YOU want us to proceed?" taking a breath he continued, "You want us to spread out and investigate all sources at the same time or concentrate on one at a time."

Looking at his companions he unclenched his fingers. "There are pro's and con's for both options..." heaving a sigh "but this feels more like choosing the lesser evil..." then he just crossed his arms again leaning back making it clear that he had nothing else to add. With a side glance he looked at Sinnon who was the last to speak.

Action: tries to gain some insight on the way their employer wants things done.

Shinon marveled at the beautiful stone. Even without its doubtless magic properties he could see why a collector would want it. He listened to the others speak, Metosi had asked the only question he had been considering asking. Ka-vara asked a question that Bildam had already answered in his opinion but he saw no reason to point that out, even more so since the altmer would likely do so. He shrugged as he personally saw this the same as Ka-vara, no questions asked. He would simply wait until it was time to begin their 'quest'.

Action: Wait

@rush99999 Actions: Wait.

No roll necessary.

@WittyWolf Actions: Question Bildam further about wandering trader

No roll necessary.

@Regendorf Action: tries to gain some insight on the way their employer wants things done.

No roll necessary.

@Eklispe Action: Wait

No roll necessary.

-------------------

Bildam Looked to Metosi. "The Trader travels with a small clan, moving between the various cities of Skyrim. He will stick to the main roadways and campus outside of the city gates for a week or two before moving on. He is known to visit all of the cities, but now as the snow is melting he will be venturing more northward."

After this he looked to Qa-Ra. "My master has no preference as to how you proceed. If you need to take on extra employment to pay for your travels, so be it. But he wished you to focus on your task. As for focus. Skyrim, though peaceful, is a dangerous place. I recommend you travel as a group and rely on each other.

After answering the questions he put all of his items into a backpack and knocked loudly three times on the table. The Orc opened the door and scanned the room. Bildam said "Now it is imperative you keep your task secret, for I only want the world to know of 4 adventurers seeking a crazy old myth, nothing more. I will take my leave of you. I have paid for your loggings in this in tonight, after that you must fend for yourselves. If you need me I will be in Whiterun. Come in person or message me by Currier, and it must be important, I care not for petty troubles or shards of information."

With that he left the tavern with the Orc following behind. Now alone in the room you where left to determine your plan of action.

"Now that Bildam is dealt with" Ka-Vara said to Qa'Ra and Metosi after Bildam left "I believe that I have some gold for you 2". With that said, Ka-Vara took out the [X] septims left by the nords and split it equally among himself, Qa'Ra, and Metosi. "As for which lead we should chase 1st, I say we go after this Ri'saad before the snow returns".

Actions: Split the nord gold equally between himself, Qa'Ra, and Metosi. Then suggest the group hunt down Ri'saad.

Listening to Ka-Vara, he couldn't help but sigh as the coins were split three ways. Then as the merchant was mentioned again he shook his head. "We'll be here for a while so, why not put those to good use?" pointing at the coins. "Metosi why don't'cha call your lass in here so we can order?"

Stretching his arms and yawning he talked again. "As for going for the merchant first, that would be a terrible waste of time if you ask me..." Tapping his finger on the table. "That s'wit's thought to travel North. We need to travel to the College of Winterfell, so let's set that as our goal. Should we meet the merchant on the way fine, if not we don't waste neither resources nor food."

Action: tries to lighten the mood in the small room. Proposes the College as a goal due to practical reasons.

Metosi laughed amusedly at Qa'Ra's suggestion even as he deposited the offered septims from Ka-Vara. "I'm not your servant and we'll have plenty of time for drinks after we set a course of action." He crossed the room and took Bildam's vacant chair, setting his elbows on the table and steepling his fingers in front of him. "I agree with you however, the College is the logical place to start. They'll have records of known Dwemer ruins in the land as well as detailed accounts of the excavation in Markarth. Doubtful that they'd leave such a valuable find to only one mage."

He rubbed his eyes for a moment, the strain of the journey beginning to weigh on him. "We'll need to pick up work on the way however, the meager gold we have between us won't last us such a lengthy trip. Are there any villages along the way? I'd prefer to keep out of main cities to keep our presence quiet. It seems discretion will be our greatest threat, at this moment anyway."

Shinon nodded, he liked the thought of going to the college. The arguments presented for it were sound and besides, he might be able to talk to some of the mages there while they were investigating and learn a thing or two. His sharp yellow eyes noted the coin changing hands but he didn't comment on it. "I also think we should head to the collage." Shinon said quietly presenting his opinion on the matter. "As for the location of villages along the way I'm sure of the locals would be able to assist us, with either verbal directions or a map. Perhaps the bartender would be a good place to start?" Shinon advised remembering how he had seen Metosi conversing with her earlier. "Though perhaps we should wait until morning, often thinking is more clear after a good nights rest."

Action: blah blah blah

@rush99999 Actions: Split the nord gold equally between himself, Qa'Ra, and Metosi. Then suggest the group hunt down Ri'saad.

No roll necessary.

@Regendorf Action: tries to lighten the mood in the small room. Proposes the College as a goal due to practical reasons.

No roll necessary.

@WittyWolf Action: None noted

No roll necessary.

@Eklispe Action: blah blah blah

No roll necessary.

-------------------

No narrative needed.

"Sorry Metosi, t'was but a friendly request. But truthfully with that lass, you would be the best suited to get some information." then scratching the nape of his head "Also Sinnon's right, tomorrow's gonna be long. We should turn in." Looking at the Argonian, "Well that's if you agree with us, if not I'm open for other options."

Action: None

Ka-Vara nodded when Qa'Ra addressed him. "In retrospect, a college of mages is a lot easier to track down than a khajiit merchant" he said "As for turning in for the night, you all go ahead if you want. But I have a feeling that we haven't seen the last of those nords, so I think I'll keep an eye open for a while".

Actions: Agree with the rest of the party.

Shinon's ear twitched irritably at Qa'Ra's incorrect production of his name, but he was not annoyed enough to bring it up. "Well if that's settled then I'm going to go to sleep." Shinon stated and left to do just that, luckily Bildam had already paid for their rooms so that was taken care of. He inquired as to where his room was and then left to sleep, un-stringing his bow and leaning it against the wall and placing his short-sword underneath his pillow.

Action: Ask for room location/number and go to sleep.

Metosi admired the Argonian's discipline. Those Nords could very well be trouble if they returned. The Dark Elf stretched almost like a cat for a moment before addressing Ka-Vara and Qa'Ra. "Shinon has half of the right idea, I plan to head to bed as well. Hopefully, not alone." Winking at his companion, he left the room and went back to the counter and bartender. "It's getting late sweetheart, wouldn't you like to.. go to bed?" Then he remembered Qa'Ra's request. "But before that, could you send one of your waitresses into that side-room? My companion is positively parched." He wore a charming smile and had a twinkle in his eye as he gazed at the bartender.

Action: Once again, attempt to seduce the bartender and ask for service for Qa'Ra and Ka-Vara.

@Regendorf Action: None

No roll necessary.

@rush99999 Actions: Agree with the rest of the party.

No roll necessary.

@Eklispe Action: Ask for room location/number and go to sleep.

No roll necessary.

@WittyWolf Action: Once again, attempt to seduce the bartender and ask for service for Qa'Ra and Ka-Vara.

Charm check required: (2 green VS 1 purple) = s = Success

-------------------

Shinon was led to his room by one of the barmaids who then closed the door behind her as she left him to rest. Meanwhile the barmaid nedded, sent one of the other barmaids to tend to Metosi's companions. She smiled and leaned across the bar table "That all depends," she replied, "If it is true what they say about dark elves."

The barmaid delivered Ka-Vara and Qa'Ra their drinks. They spent a few more hours drinking and conversing until sleep took them as well...

The next morning the companions stood outside of the Dead Man's Drink felling well rested and refreshed. In the early morning light the town was starting to come back to life. As the companions checked there gear, The bartender walked up to Metosi and touched his arm. "Have a safe journey, and remember next time you are in Falkreath to ask for Narri." She shot a wink at him and returned back inside of the tavern.

Metosi had everything in order and felt ready to take on the world at this moment. After such a long time on the road, a different kind of exercise had been just what the healer had ordered. His companions looked to be in good spirits as well. They had finally got a good night's rest in an actual bed under a real roof. None of those makeshift camps the driver had pulled from his chest. He yawned, shaking out the final remnants of grogginess from his mind and limbs.

"That was a fine tavern indeed! We must make a point to come back and celebrate once this venture is completed. Wouldn't you say, men?" His smile was one of a cat whom had gotten into the cream. "How was everyone's night, restful?" And the woman's name... Narri! Metosi made a point to himself to never forget that woman's name.

Action: Greet his companions after a spectacular night.

Shinon rubbed his eyes, he hadn't slept nearly as well as Metosi had apparently. The bed was... too soft for him, halfway though the night he had just ended up taking out his pad, laying it on the floor, and sleeping on that instead. After that though he had slept like a log, ableit for half as long as he would've liked but still not as bad as some nights. "Restful enough. I don't suppose anyone found out anything about villages along the way before you all turned in for the night?" Shinon inquired expecting a 'no'. Oh well, they could doubtless find something along the way and it wasn't that big of a deal. He was just excited at the prospect of visiting the collage of Winterhold.

Actions: Greet

Qa-Ra had slept well, while he usually enjoyed sleeping outdoors better than indoors, it was a welcomed change of pace. As they all met in front of the in the girl was just leaving. Then as one of them started vaunting about their great night at the inn "Yeah, yeah...rub it in playboy," Qa-Ra answered feigning jealousy at Metosi.

Then turning to Shinnon," T'was his job," nodding towards the Dunmer."If not we need to buy some provisions anyway, we'll ask the grocer for directions." Scratching his chin he continued "we'll hunt the meat I suppose but we'll still need at least some stale bread to go with it"

Action: Idle chatting, proposing a course of action