([Completed] Luca/Troy Adventure 1): Return to Tuskdale Hall

[Kenjosephus]

Troy

The gems, i would agree with you. But the armor is a no deal for me. Furthermore, we do not know the exact price of returning Lady Tuskdale back from the curse. Unless we know how much it's cost, i would not sell the armor to a woman like her.

[Juramenta]

I actually have a better idea in mind for the armor. My plan is for the armor to be bought back, not sold to the easiest bidder. So I prefer to find one who sees the value in holding on to it until the lord himself can purchase it back for a fair price. Luca responds to Troy trying to ease his mind.

[Kenjosephus]

Troy

So you're planning to lend the armor? That's.. okay, i suppose.. but what if it doesn't returned back as promised?

Troy scratches his chin, remain unconvinced of his companion's idea.

Either way, we need to know what the cost to bring her back to life.

[Juramenta]

Another option would be to give the armor in return for the removal of the petrification. Tell him the lord will purchase it back from him later. Luca slightly reluctantly suggests as that route would remove any chances for a slice of the pie for him.

[Kenjosephus]

Troy

Troy nods, finally understand what he means
Sure, i get you now. Now we need to know who is willing to buy that kind of armor.

[archolewa]

I'm going to call the haggling a Charisma Bluff check. 1d20+18+1-3(Natasje knows you Luca) = 18 < 20 (you rolled a 2...ouch!)

Natasje rolls her eyes. "Spare me the theatrics Luca. I ain't getting these baubles for me, and you gotta know I'm gonna want a profit of my own. Look, I'll give you 22 silver each.

Her grin turns crafty. "Unless you want to give me the full details on what went down at that manor. Then I'll give you the full 3 gold for each."

More than a little of Natasje's income comes from trading in information, and Luca knows that smile. It's the smile Natasje gets when she senses some juicy gossip.

[Kenjosephus]

Troy

Troy looks at Luca, hoping he would notice him. If he does, he will simply shakes his head, a clear sign of disapproval of this new offer.

[Juramenta]

Luca's eyes briefly light up at the mention of 3 gold per gem, but the flicker of Troy’s disapproving gesture quickly draws his attention back to reality.
’’Selling them for 3 gold each does have its appeal, Natasja. But... if word got out about what truly went down, well, the place we're trying to save would be crawling with every cutthroat and vagabond within earshot. And, well, I'd much prefer to keep that honor for myself, he adds with a soft chuckle.

22 silver it is, then. You've earned a hefty discount for always dazzling the room with your pretty looks, after all. Now, I do assume that a night’s lodging for myself and my companions is part of this little arrangement? Luca adds as he raises an eyebrow, his grin spreading subtly as he tries to seal the deal with his charm.

[archolewa]

Natasje smiled. "Sure. I'll just go ahead and hang onto three silver, plus 2 copper to take care of your horse, and a copper to store your merchant wagon in my stable. So let's see, five gems at 22 silver each is 110. Minus three silver for your rooms puts us at 107. Take out three copper for your horse and wagon, and we're looking at 10 gold, 6 silver and 7 copper."

Natasje makes the gems disappear. She ducks into the back room and comes out a moment later with a small, heavy purse. She dumps the coins out into Luca's palms. "There you go. Now, you said you wanted to find someone to 'hold onto' your new suit armor hmm? Well, I know just the fella. And I'll tell you, so long as Luca here agrees to sing the next three nights," Natasje gestures to Troy and Gwen. "Agree to help work as bouncers. Luca always attracts so very, very many paying patrons. But things get rough sometimes. And he's always so hesitant to sing for me, you know?"

"Oh, and don't forget about that tax the Princess levies on such findings. Three silver on the gold. They get might touchy if you don't pay, and pay well for reports of any tax dodgers. You can pay it down in the Vault at the Castle."You owe the city 30% of your found treasure in taxes, though you still get full XP.

Note: For XP purposes, you will get the full 11 gold for the gems, since you effectively sold the gems and then paid Natasje.

Don't forget for someone to mark they're holding onto the coins! Avoid divvying them up for now. I'll write up a nice long post with all the treasure and the share sizes once you're done selling your goods.

[Kenjosephus]

Troy

Troy gives a unsure look at Natasje. He then emphasize her statement.

Only when Luca performs at this tavern. Three nights, from when he steps in the tavern until the last song are sung each night. We have things to do.

[Juramenta]

I might be willing to perform just because it's you asking, although three nights is asking a bit much. I don't know if I have the stamina he says with a misschievous grin hinting at something else.
However, I might already have a buyer. But who knows, I might even play one just because I cannot say no to you. he says charmingly but does not accept her proposal before checking out his other option first.

[archolewa]

Natasje huffs. "Oh fine. Go hunt around some, and then come on back. I'm always open to negotiation."

She gives Luca a sparkling grin. "There are few things I find more exhilarating than negotiating with my favorite roustabout."

@Juramenta not sure if you have someone or something in particular in mind. Feel free to propose an NPC if you'd like, or let me know the kind of person you're looking for and I can create someone. Or if there's someone I referenced and then forgot about, feel free to mention them too!

[Juramenta]

It completely ruins my plans to make something off the side with it, which normally goes against everything Luca stands for. But seeing how much it means to Troy, he is planning on using the plate directly as payment for the removal of the petrification. Explain to him the plate is worth way more than the spell and the lord will buy it back with interest. That would lower the chance of the plate being sold further and we would know where the plate is located.

[archolewa]

It completely ruins my plans to make something off the side with it, which normally goes against everything Luca stands for. But seeing how much it means to Troy, he is planning on using the plate directly as payment for the removal of the petrification. Explain to him the plate is worth way more than the spell and the lord will buy it back with interest. That would lower the chance of the plate being sold further and we would know where the plate is located.

Ahh, ok. You're going to try to barter the field plate for services from the old elf you learned about the ritual of plenty (and Dreadlord) from?

[Juramenta]

That's the plan as he feels Troy would appreciate this way better over finding some shady dealer for it.

[archolewa]

"Uncle Lucky, you umm, run with an interesting crowd," says Gwen, throwing one last look at Natasje as they leave. "My mother's tone of voice every time she talked about you makes a lot of sense right now."

I'm going to assume you left the wagon in Natasje's stables. Luca knows she can take care of herself, and it is obvious to everyone ages 3 and up that bringing a wagon full of occult fetishes into someplace as closely watched and protected as the Academy is unwise.

The three make their way to the magic academy. A bit of inquiry at the gate, some back and forth with a young lad serving as runner, and an hour later the trio are sitting in Korin's office. Korin is an ancient elf, easily more than seven hundred years old. His shoulder-length hair is a dark, dark red. His skin is pale, and his body thin and frail. He moves gracefully, but very slowly. His eyes, though they track the trio easily enough, are a washed out, pale blue. If it weren't for the shock of red hair, one might almost think Korin were a ghost. It is said that elves don't die of old age like humans do. Rather, as they age they start to fade, until finally one day friends or family may find nothing more than a pile of clothing where once the elf had been.

The old man smiles gently. When he speaks, his voice is soft and thin, almost fading away as well. "Ahh, Luca. How are you? I don't suppose you've stumbled upon any new songs or manuscripts hmm?"

[Juramenta]

Luca looks up and offers a warm smile when Gwen mentions her mother. Knowing they have a long walk ahead, Luca decides to share something he normally would’ve kept secret. Troy and Gwen were no longer just traveling companions; they were becoming friends, and with that trust comes a willingness to reveal more of himself.
Your mother is the wisest woman I've ever met. Just... don't tell your father I said that. She’d never believe it, and he’d just mock me for admitting the truth. Luca chuckles, hinting at the peculiar yet strong chemistry between himself and Gwen's parents.
But your mother, well, she understands people like Natasja even if she never met her. And I hope you will as well after what I am about to tell you. When I say people like her, I suppose, I mean myself as well. Don’t ever tell Natasja I said any of the following, and I’d humbly ask you both to keep this between us.
Unlike you or Troy, who can be proud of your upbringing, our childhoods were... different. Natasja would’ve been better off if she'd been thrown to the streets even sooner than she was. As for me, the streets were all I’ve known, literally born there and never had a home since. Luca’s voice softens as he reflects on his past.
When Natasja and I met, there was an understanding. The streets will separates the wheat from the chaff for sure, but they aren't as bad as people think. There's an entire community living in the shadows. So if you ever get pigeon-dipped. Sorry, pickpocketed... Luca catches himself using street slang as he reminisces on his past.
It might help knowing that the person who took from you probably needed it more than you did.
However as he raises his pointer finger. there are those destined for more than what society would shove them into. And no, I’m not talking about myself. I love the road, the freedom, wherever the wind takes me. But Natasja... she clawed her way out of our life and built something meaningful. She’s helped more children in this town than the temple ever has. I’m not joking, Gwenny. That woman’s done more good than anyone I know, well, save maybe Princess Flora herself. Luca speaks with uncharacteristic seriousness.

Troy Luca turns his attention to the warrior, his tone lightening a bit.
I hope you won’t take this the wrong way, but it's because of Natasja that I didn’t treat you as a 'Tili'.Please do not take this the wrong way, but it is because of Natasja I did not treat you as a tili. Well, that one might be difficult to explain, how shall I explain better. It’s similar to being a mark, just more specific to your type of personality. If mark isn’t known, just see it as a target of a con. It is because of her I actually listened and observed you. Those holier than thou have always rubbed me the wrong way and is the reason I actually feel nerves knowing we are going into the lion’s den soon.

His tone sounds soft yet sincere in what he is about to say next.
When we met, you showed nothing but grace, more than any paladin I’ve encountered. And to my surprise, you actually meant it. I would never have realized that without Natasja in the back of my mind, yelling at me to change. Do something good for once. For us meeting is not just for altruistic gains even if I led my introduction by that, but that is a story for another time. Gwenny, you’re far too much like your mother, you’re pulling more out of me than I’m comfortable sharing. Luca laughs as he tries to brush off the depth of his confession with humor.
I truly consider both of you my friends. Not the kind of ‘friend’ I greet just to get a discount or a favor, but actual friends. Luca clarifies.
Now, Gwenny was always good in my book because of who she’s related to, but Troy... I would have taken advantage of you when we first met. Now, I can admit that, and I promise it won’t happen in the future either. he says staying in a very sincere tone seeing as he means it.
And it’s all thanks to Natasja. She’s rough around the edges, sure, but she’s as real as they come. Cross her, and she’ll tear into you like a rabid dog. But if she deems you worthy, she’ll be the one saving your hide when you least expect it. Trust me on that, Gwenny. I wouldn’t be surprised if you two end up great friends, well friends, I give it a fifty-fifty chance on that or end up locked in an epic bar brawl I wouldn’t dare to wager on. he ends with a lighthearted chuckle, hoping to ease the weight of his earlier revelations with a playful joke.

Arriving at the Academy.
My friend! My mentor into the ways of the arcane. Luca smiles slightly exagerating as the man never took him in as a actual apprentice.
I have some far better this time. This might shake up this entire academy and you are first to know. But before we dive into things, how have you been my most intelligent of friends? Luca actually believes the man is the most intelligent person he knows even if he says it in a humorous way.

[Kenjosephus]

Troy

Troy ponders when Luca mention his upbringing.

My upbringing is not as priviledged as you think it is. I was not born by the Tuskdale family, that i remember. I did remember my mother, only of the taste of her breastmilk and the softness of her embrace, yet not the face nor even name. Only be with her, until i last saw her on that other side of the manor. Lord Tuskdale said that i was sold so that i can live a better life. Yet, that is a first time i do not believe her as she should've joined me in the manor. A mother should be with her son all the time, correct?

Troy laughs at the mention of him being a paladin
You have a way with words, mister Silvercharm. If i am one, i should annoint you as a knight. Perhaps i can absolve your sins from birth to now. No no.. i am no paladin nor a knight. I am just me. A dog trying to survive the war of men. Now, i'm grateful now the war is over, i got.. i wish i got my lucky break after all this time.

Natasja, no wonder i do not saw her as an cutthroater. Just a woman who knew this place a little bit better than we all do, maybe just better than i do. I do appreciate the friendship that we made, mister Silvercharm. Your company is not a dull moment. And... thank you for saving me back in the village. I don't know if i can stand fighting against three men, or an entire village.

Arriving at the academy, Troy gives a bow towards Korin, the old man. This is a discussion amongst scholars, so Troy will shut his mouth for now.

[archolewa]

My friend! My mentor into the ways of the arcane. Luca smiles slightly exagerating as the man never took him in as a actual apprentice.
I have some far better this time. This might shake up this entire academy and you are first to know. But before we dive into things, how have you been my most intelligent of friends? Luca actually believes the man is the most intelligent person he knows even if he says it in a humorous way.

"Hah!" Korin slaps his knee. "It never fails to astound me how you, a human who hasn't even seen his fourth decade, can make me, a 700 year old elf, impatient! I have been better than I ever imagined. It's wondrous, to see the Kinslayer fall. After over three hundred years of defeats, of always giving ground. Of watching Immortals fall, civilizations wiped out. Watching friends and family fall, either in glorious sacrifice, or hopeless despair. To think that now, we all have hope again, a chance for a tomorrow better than today. It's something. So much was lost, but perhaps now we can find it again. Ahhh, I feel four hundred years younger! Like an elf just coming into the prime of his life! But come now. Tell me what this big, earth shattering discovery is."

[Juramenta]

With age comes responsibility Luca begins, flashing a quick grin. But for those of us whose lives are more fleeting, we worry only about the next sunrise, not centuries of loss. And maybe that's why I always seem lighthearted and you carrying the weight of the next century. His tone carries its usual lightness, but beneath it is the respect Korin commands. Luca is definitely focused on making a deal even if he genuinely likes seeing the ancient elf again. Even Luca cannot hide the genuine respect he carries for an elf of venerable age. It is a different breed that commands respect.

This might take a while, so bear with me. What I’m about to tell you, I do so in full trust. There are details I need you to hear, all of them, so that when the time comes, you understand why I’m asking what I will.
Luca offers an almost theatrical bow, but stops just short of making it too much, keeping it respectful for Korin’s age and wisdom. He straightens and begins his tale.
His words, while never straying from the truth, are crafted with a storyteller’s flair.
The words greatly elevate Troy and Gwen to near-legendary status, presenting them as heroes worthy of songs in every tavern from Thorncity to the far reaches of the kingdom.
Luca especially spends extra time on the petrification, his voice growing somber as he recounts the horrors they uncovered and finally ends shifting his story to mentioning the plate armor.
The plate armor, I still feel shaken realising I was a witness to perfection, now there’s a thing that will make even the oldest of ancient elven blacksmithing connoiseurs raise their eyebrows. It’s not just any ordinary set, Korin.
This piece, it's more valuable than I can begin to describe. The lord who seeks it back is ready to pay a king’s ransom to see it returned. I truly understand you would not require any payment to remove the petrification after hearing our tale, but I feel you should be compensated for your hard work Luca’s eyes glint with mischief, testing how far he can go on Korin’s curiosity.