Barack nods to Jor and says, "I will put in a recommendation to the General when next we meet. The Knights of Neraka will consider the services of the Brass Tigers in the near future. I believe our business is now concluded Jor. You may be on your way."
He gives a look to Cayden and says sternly, "Solider Cayden, escourt Jor to the entrance of the enclave."
Cayden salutes. "Yes Sir!" and opens the door stepping outside and guides Jor back through the encampment.
Kathalanos after addressing the party says, "Let us meet in my suite so we can settle up what is owed for your services.
As for Jor as he heads back to the Inn and RANDOM ENCOUNTER!
Jor heading back to the Five Dragon inn is stopped as woman comes from a nearby alleyway. The woman appears somewhat Khurish with her long black hair and her vague features. Her skin tone is quite fair for someone of this region however with only a slight brownish tinge to her colouring. In addition she is unusually slender and her eye color is a silver grey, not typically seen among the Khur who typically have brown or hazel eyes. She is dressed in a Khurish Courtesan outfit with a mix of whites and reds. She smiles at Jor and says.
"Hello there. You look to be rather lonely wandering the streets of Pashin at night. Perhaps you could use some company humm..."
The woman gives a sexy pose showing a bit of cleavage and looking rather hopeful.
Looking surprised and then examining the woman more closely as Jor notices the silver grey eyes but soon focuses his eyes on the goods. Deeply in his thoughs Jor comes to conclusion Well, night does appear to be cold lately even here in Pashin. Why wont we continue our journey together to Five Dragon Inn & Tavern miss. Meantime we can... discuss until we arrive there Jor suggest as he starts to walk again slowly and motioning the woman follow after him
The elf will follow his countryman back to his suite.
Gabriel as well hobbles back to the room.
The woman smiles to Jor and says, "I believe I can understand. The nights in Pashin are quite cold, expecially at this time of year. I would be willing to warm you up this evening. The Five Dragon inn is a fine establishment and I will certaintly accompany you there.
She snuggles up taking position on his arm you continue to head towards the Five Dragon inn. Jor can't help but feel a bit of pride having an attractive woman swooning over him. But this does not last for long. You've travelled less than a block when a group of two burly looking Khurite men approach. They both scream muscle bound goons, dressed in black studded leather and each with a mace, whip and dagger on their belts. Both of them bear some degree of visible battle scars.
Noticing the woman on Jor's arm the lead thug yells. "Oai! Dove. Da Blackbird sent us to find ya.
Dove as she is called shys behind Jor obviously frightened by these two burly leg breakers.
They approach closer and the lead thug locks an intimidating glare on Dove and bellows.
"You didn't pay yer full cut last pay period. Ya owe us the normal cut plus interest. Twenty-Five steel. Cough it up woman."
Dove stutters in response saying, "I...I don't have that kind of money. It has been hard... to.. to make money these days."
So does Jor do anything to involve himself in this dispute?
Alathea will follow along with the others though not thrilled to be so close to Gabriel, so long as his disguise holds all should d be well.
Back in Kathalanos's room he says, "So those foul bandits are dead. Good. That means those dammed ruffians won't be selling any more Elven Relics on the black market. Although I fear this won't be the end of it as there will always be profiteers on the misery of others in the world. As promised I owe you all some money."
He digs into his chest and tosses a sack with 100 steel pieces in the inside to the party. "Unfortunately this is all I can spare at the moment. It is expensive to live on the surface as an elf as you would imagine. I was a man of moderate wealth back in my homeland, but I had to leave my holdings behind when the Minotaurs attacked. Hopefully this an acceptable reward for a job well done."
"By the way, did you happen to recover a finely crafted elven Rapier during your search of the Bandit Camp? That sword is a heirloom and I would hate to see it gone forever. In addition, if you have the Quinari Key I would be interested in seeing it."
Terevalis will reply to the queries of his countryman, in Silvanesti We did find a rapier Cleric of Astarin. We did find other mundane items that will be of use to our people here in Pashin. The Key of Quinari has also been located.
Measuring both thugs from head to toes and seeing how they are handling themself Jor was confident of taking both of them out if he had to. However being all alone and not really in the mood to start fight over some dispute not concerning him Jor decided to quickly speak Well, it must be your lucky day my men. This beautiful flower is currently working and trying to earn her steel for you? I also happen to be in a quite good mood so why not. I can pay it for her
Jor chatters without worry while his other hand fishes 2 platinum coins with 5 steel along them. Here you go my friends. You are happy, I am happy and for sure for a long time. She is also happy and costs covered. What you say, we are fine and good here? Smiling and flicking the coins to one of the bandits as his other hand squeeses with assurance the girl they just called Dove.
The head thug takes the money from Jor, checks it and and looks at him and gives him an approving nod. The thug then looks back to Dove and says, "This will cover the debts you owe to the Blackbird. Remember Dove to pay your cut on time lest we'll have to pay ye another visit."
He gives a toothy smile showing a number of missing teeth. He then pockets the money and gestures for his partner to move on saying, "Come along Hisham. We've got some other fresh meat to shake down tonight." His partner grunts and nods and then they both head off to continue other shakedowns.
Dove looks back to Jor and says looking relieved, "Thank you! Thank you for paying off my debt. Musad and Hisham work for the Blackbird as his collectors. He requires a cut from my earnings every fortnight. Those who can't pay their cut..." She shutters at the thought before getting back to business.
"Well then, as you know I am Dove and as you have paid my debt I am at your service." She bows, "Shall I continue to provide you company this evening?
Kathalanos says in elvish to Terevalis, "Ah that is good to hear. Could you return my rapier to me as well as show me the key so that I can look upon its beauty once again?
Well, as I have already paid something in advance might as well enjoy the night. Come with me, beautiful desert flower. Night is still young and I do feel hungry. Let us grab something to eat and drink in the tavern. I do feel curious also about you smiling at her as Jor resumes his walking and brings Dove next to him while having his arm around her waist
We can continue talking during a meal, my treat of course. and gives her his most charming smile
Of course your property will be returned to you. What do you mean see its beauty again?
Kathalanos says, "I looked upon the key back when I served the royal court in Silvanost and heard its beautiful song and saw its beautiful craftsmanship. I would like to listen to its song so that I can cherish the melody again."
The elf will bring out the music box.
Alathea will watch intently but not say anything, she will remove her steel, the 20 pieces that were hers to keep and hand slide 10 back to Kathalanos. The other 10, she will leave at the Temple when she visits the next day.
So Jor takes Dove towards the 5 Dragon Inn talking to her among the way on whatever subject he wants to bring up.
Kathalin's eyes widen as he looks upon the box. He goes to it and almost reverently opens the box. When he does so a very beautiful and lifelike figurine of an elven dancer pops up out of the box. Indeed the figurine looks almost like a living person (Except small enough to fit into a box) A song echos from the box, a beautiful song that brings tears to Kathalin's eyes as he stares wonderosly at the figurine as it dances a beautiful dance to the music. Eventually the song ends. Kathalin whiping a tear from his eye closes the box gently and says in elven "Hantanyel" (Meaning I Thank You in Elven)
He then looks to Terevalis and says in elven, "I put my trust in you Terevalis to see that this relic is protected. Its value is beyond words to describe. In time I would like to see it returned to the Royal House when we once again can claim a homeland as our own."
Perhaps we will both be there the day that that takes place.
In elven:
"Can you tell us what you know of the herald? We saved him the other day and he stated he had seen all of us in one of his vision. We found this key and went on to do great things. Can you tell us anymore of what this thing represents?"
I understand that the Herald is actually Astinus of Palanthus in another form. Perhaps he is also the god Gilean of the Book.
Terevalis says in response to the questions, "Yes I have heard the rumors of the Hearld. He is a wise man who sings songs and tells tales of the history of Krynn. While I doubt he is Astinus or Gilean considering he was active during the absence of the Gods, he certainly has a knack of showing up in places and times of significance, he must have some degree of foresight. Beyond that there is little else I know of him. He is an Enigma to be sure."
For the question of the Key, Kathalanos says, "As for my knowledge Quinari Key itself it was a personal relic of Quinari Goldeneye, the wife of Silvanos, the first speaker of the Stars of our people. She was alive to see the legendary First Dragon War and at its conclusion married Silvanos and was the mother of the royal line of Silvanos. Thus the value of the Quinari Key is beyond measure for it is one of a kind. As for what the key unlocks, that unfortunately has been lost to the ages it seems."
"Perhaps a mystery we will unravel. Please take that steel to aid your people. If there is nothing else, I think it is high past time to get some rest!"
"Thank you for your time and answers. I do feel it is time to rest as well. The road was long and now with a warm meal in my belly a good nights sleep is in order. Thank you Kathalanos."
With the Gabriel retires for the night taking care to wrap up and hide his armor in the cloak and stash it under the bed.
Kathalanos bids you all good evening an everyone retires to their rooms to rest for the evening. Other than Jor of course who arrives back at the inn with Dove firmly in his good graces. Eveline sets you both up with a table and meal and Jor now has Dove to himself to do what he wishes with her for the evening.
Showing interest at the woman Jor is eating slowly and pointing out some things in his life and adventures so far as a Mercenary until turning questions more towards Dove "Well, do enlighten me, my Goddess, how did you find yourself in this situation. Also would you delight me and tell me more about this Blackbird person as there might be some things I have to" Jor thinks as his hands twirls the utensils in his hands "talk some things out with him. If you do however find it bad, do tell me about yourself. Is there something you love, like to do? How about family?" curious and during his questions Jor caresses Doves arm "I would like to know more about you"
Dove having been won over by Jor answers his questions honestly. She tells him the following:
1. She admits she is a half-elf, born of a Khur mother and an elven father and has lived in Pashin for 5 years having migrated to the town from the city of Ak-Krin. She works as a courtesan because she could not get a husband to take care of her and she could not find work as no one wanted to hire a half-elf. As for her family, she was a disgrace as she is a Half-Breed so her extended family hated her and her mother although died from illness, forcing her to make life on her own.
2. The Blackbird is the head of the criminal underworld in Pashin. He is a ruthless man who seeks to profit off of the criminal activity in the city. To that end he demands a cut of her earnings every two weeks. She couldn't fully pay the last time so the debt was added onto the next period. Those girls who continue to not pay their cut are forced to work off their debt at the Wounded Crow Tavern or are thrown out of town to the desert.
3. As for her hopes, she's looking just to survive day by day and earn enough to keep herself alive in these hard times. She used to make good money in her business due to her exotic features as well as dexterous techniques but ever since the Dark Knights came to town and started cracking down on illegal activities its been hard to make a living as a Courtesan.
Jor feeling a little bit touched by the story of girl and feeling the sincerity does find his heart aching. That was a strange feeling which Jor had not really had before. Not sure what to say but still curious Jor kept asking various topics regarding her life in Pashin.
Hm... I do need to talk with Terevalis and maybe through him with elven council. I will own a favor but then better that than having her suffer. Otherwise I do now have contacts with Dark Knights so there is always a way pondering for a moment before grasping her hand between his and looking in her eyes This will sound strange and maybe it is, but I am maybe able to help you out here. I do have connections and regarding also my position I can offer something Jor laughs a bit comically as he hears himself ah, what happened to me. I am totally not myself
If you trust me, please stay with me and in my company for a couple days squeezing a bit and smiling comfortably at Dove We can discuss about this more tomorrow. I do feel a bit tired Jor suggest with rised eyebrow
Dove says in response to Jor's offer for help "I am willing to accept any help you are willing to give Jor. As for the offer of Company... well you did pay off my debts and you are a rather dashing man to say the least. I can give you a few days of my time and other things you might wish." She smirks.
The next day our heroes awaken refreshed from a night of rest at the inn and head downstairs for breakfast. You are all given a fine Khurish breakfast meal including croissants, berry jam, goat cheese, Za'atar herbs, Desert fruits as well as Khurish Tea or Coffee. You all also notice Jor there sitting with a sultry looking lady and talking away although her appearance is somewhat unusual for an average Khurite.
After breakfast the elf will excuse himself and retire to his room in order to look at the scrolls that he got. It would serve better if I had them in my spellbook he says He pulls out his spellbook and looking at the scroll of lesser orb of fire will pray to the gods of magic to help him to scribe it into his book.
Seeing that he can scribe the scroll into his book he is very happy. Thus the gods of magic show me their favor. as the scroll he was copying disintegrates.
OK.
Cole is of course with the party and shares a room with Terevalis for the night and is with the group for breakfast. Of course as you cleaned him out of money you have pay for everything. Everyone please pay 1 steel each to cover room costs and food & drink costs.
The elf will pay his cost as well as that if Cole. After he scribes the spell into his spellbook he will ask Cole Did the Academy teach you the basics of scroll writing?
Cole says, "I know how to read scrolls but I do not know how to make them. I have written magical text into books though as part of my training.
I don't understand why Majere did not show his students how to do these basics which would have been part of his rudimentary training. Your teacher will have to show you such things.
Cole says, "Well from what I heard, scrolls could not be created through use of Sorcery. The rare scrolls we had at the academy were ones left over from the times before the departure of the Gods. Sorcery involves learning a technique and then forcing the magical energy to take that shape. This allows me to use any spell that I know at will but only until I have expended the magical energy within me."
High sorcery is like the gentle embrace of a lover. During the War of Chaos I began my training. When the Dragon Queen stole the world the lover left. Now that the moons have returned so did the magic. To have studied wild sorcery would be like adultery.
Alathea finishes her breakfast and is energized, "What say we go to the Market ad dispose of the goods we no longer need. Then we can find the Herald. If what he says leads us to stay together, if not, so be it".
I'm good to go.
Chatting away with Dove happily until seeing others coming down for breakfest and greeting them. Thinking for a moment Jor excuses himself as he appraoches others "I hope each of you had a pleasant night. I for sure had and also got some interesting information" Jor explains as he arranges one stool nearby for sitting
"I do however like to question, if I can get rest of the equipments regarding Dark Knight. I did visit them yesterday evening and seems like also wished to receive them due to possible "infiltration" attempts. Any objections against that?"
Couching a bit and looking at Terevalis "Terevalis, there is a favor I do would like to ask of you and I, Jor Majere of Brass Tiger Company, would be personally indepted to you" speaking in a serious tone as Jor adopts his official face and mannerism "You see that woman there? She happens to be a Half-Elf. I would like for you to introduce her to the elven and offer place or protection as well not to shun her away from others. I do know how long it would take but" thinking his words for a moment "I already saw the situation and what happened with that Derg fellow. As a Human I do not understand this or why, but it doesnt matter to me now" and at this moment Jor is looking directly at Terevalis eyes "If this does not work of pleases, I will see and arrange something with Dark Knights. As I told you already, Brass Tigers Company is a famous organisation and someone like Dark Knights surely will accept something like this from a high-ranking member of them in order to get their favours. I would think about this before answering" Jor finishes with last words weighing heavily down
Hearing the request made by Jor the elf will ponder it for a bit.
The elf will look to the Dove and speaking in elven
Dove responds in elvish to Terevalis, although Terevalis can tell she probably learned the language second hand rather than from actual elf tutelage. "My elven father is one of the Silvanesti. From what I heard he was a tradesman who was caught outside the elven shield when it went up and thus forced to live and work among humans. Still I don't think he knows or even cares about me as my birth was a result of a brief one night stand between my Barmaid mother and my elven father who was probably drunk at the time. He did not stay for long afterwards and he never saw my mother again.
"I will head to the temple and await the rest of you. It is best I don't spend alot of time in the streets."
Those going out to sell goods spend next few hours going to the right sellers and trading merchandise for coin. If Jor goes and drops off the Armor, Shield and Sword to the Dark Knights he is usured to see Lieutenant Barack again thanked for returning dark knight equipment and given 35 Platinum for the equipment (Equivalent of 350 Steel). Jor also will get another point in the Knights of Nekara faction rating for doing this as well. Of course Dove waits back at the inn when Jor goes as she would not be welcome anywhere near the Dark Knight Enclave.
Althea can easily get a horse, camel, donkey or whatever pack animal she wants as there is a vibrant market for animal selling in the Bazaar. Rations are also readily available for purchase. Use the normal book purchasing prices, remembering that "Steel" replaces "Gold" on the purchase chart.
As for Gabriel he heads to the temple and offers his prayers to whatever deities he choses as there is a shrine to all of them somewhere in the temple. As for the Herald, fortunately he has not left the temple this morning and if Gabriel wishes to speak to him he is currently at the shrine of Gilean sitting quietly reading a book.