"Yes.? new to Helmport, but not to markets.... " answered Flynn shrewdly.? "An Inn...of decent quality would be helpful." inquired Flynn, fully used to the interaction between Amnian merchants.? ?At the offer of tea, Flynn turned to the others.? "Perhaps we
can split up and return together for dinner. I know William wishes to check on our further passage and North...well... will want to do what North does."
DM/
20 Eleasis, Highsun (summer)
Helmsport, Maztica
Midafternoon
Making your way across the serene farmland to a well traveled hardpack road, you feel at ease finally back in ¡®civilization¡¯. As you navigate through the bustling market area of the exotic
port city, you are greeted by a local merchant, a stout man with a jovial demeanor. He is clad in a vibrant array of layered garments, their colors and patterns reflecting the rich tapestry of the city¡¯s culture. His dark, bushy beard and warm smile further
emphasize his welcoming nature.
The merchant¡¯s stall is a kaleidoscope of colors, brimming with an assortment of goods. Vials of glowing liquids in various hues are arranged meticulously, their luminous contents casting a soft,
mesmerizing glow. Exotic fruits, some with iridescent skins and others shaped in unusual forms, are piled high, their aromas mingling in the air. Intricate trinkets¡ªcarved wooden figures, ornate jewelry, and delicate metalwork¡ªcatch the light and sparkle enticingly.
With a grand, sweeping gesture towards the array of goods, the merchant exclaims,
¡°Greetings, my friends! First time in our fine city, I see. May I assist you in finding anything? Perhaps some local delicacies or unique curios?¡±?His accent, thick yet melodious, underscores his genuine enthusiasm for his city and its treasures.
As you approach him, you notice how his eyes light up with curiosity and pride, revealing a deep connection to both his merchandise and the bustling city around him. His eagerness to help and apparently
extensive knowledge of the local wares suggest that he is not just a vendor but a passionate ambassador of the city¡¯s vibrant culture.
¡°Never you mind ¡®im,¡±?a voice calls from a stall across the road.
¡°I kin do better¡¯n fancy fruits and childish doodads,¡±?the man says with a distinct
East Sembian?accent. A weathered, ruddy face wearing an eyepatch leans out to add,
¡°And at a better price as well.¡±
The welcoming Amnian merchant waves off the competitor with some colorful local language.
¡°Ju¡¯baril, mind your own, you lame Quasit. Keep your contraband for your Sahuagin Pirates, filthy swamp dog.¡±
Turning his attention back to you, he says,
¡°Come. I bring you tea. Look around. Mahta! Tea! We have guests!¡±?
A few moments later, a dark haired young woman also dressed in brightly colored layers brings out a silver tray of tea with several cups and a pile of roasted nuts.
And what do you do?
/DM
