"Cheer up, I'm sure helping the priest is the right thing to do and we'll get paid somehow."
Thats easy for you to say with a full purse, Garridan thinks to himself.
When he returns he also searches the rooms.
With nothing left to do but sit around Ederin takes one last search around the room.
With the remaining time however he approaches Lief.
"Kid I know you ain't happy 'bout what happened. I can't say I agree with you, but I understand, but rules o' combat, they ain't never existed here. Revenge, slittin' throats in the night, poison, that's Riddleports code."
He sits on the floor, still a bit winded from the combat earlier.
"If you're tryin' to change that, well, I s'pose I can get on board but we gotta talk about that in private. Easiest way to kill a group is to get them fighten' each other, and if you're gonna lecture us out in the open it aint gonna do us any good."
Lief is all too happy to join Garridan and Dimitrio, as they inform him of their plan to visit the Publican House. Taking in the atmosphere of one house of worship, compared to the most recent one, the young man can't square the circle with regards to gods and their various whims and worshippers.
As Garridan pays for a curative for the poisoned priest, Lief leans in afterwards. "Your generosity should be rewarded through the priest's returned strength, Garridan. Gold is one thing, indebtedness from a man of god, another."
...
Returning to the Church of the Poisoned, Lief remains on the first floor, allowing Garridan to bring the curative to the priest in private.
""Kid I know you ain't happy 'bout what happened. I can't say I agree with you, but I understand, but rules o' combat, they ain't never existed here. Revenge, slittin' throats in the night, poison, that's Riddleport's code. If you're tryin' to change that, well, I s'pose I can get on board but we gotta talk about that in private. Easiest way to kill a group is to get them fighten' each other, and if you're gonna lecture us out in the open it ain't gonna do us any good."
Lief considers Ederin's words, and sets his mind to fence with words this time, instead of rapiers. Lief keeps his voice low, and addresses Ederin evenly.
"Exactly what is it you don't agree on? Are you glad that Kaylayne slit their throats? If she hadn't, would you have taken up that gruesome task? Have you been disappointed that we've had to turn over all our captives at the Gold Goblin? Would you have rather slit their throats and hung their bodies outside the gambling hall, to make a point? We are not the law, Ederin, surely you understand that. Kaylayne had no right to kill men who were helpless on the floor. But what's done is done, right? Better to ask for forgiveness than permission?" Lief checks himself, his voice becoming a little too acidic.
"Look. I seek no such thing as changing Riddleport code, but I will not succumb to its corruption. I am not lecturing anyone. I'm questioning them. I question your, Garridan's, and Kaylayne's moral compass. Do not be offended when I say that. I only want to know your take on killing. Are we meant to kill arsonists intent on burning down the property? Are we meant to kill thieves aiming to steal a chest of silver? How many have you killed already?" Lief's gaze has never been more focused as he studies Ederin.
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"How many have you killed already?"
Ederin's face darkens with a mixture or regret and anger.
"Killed more 'an' you'd likely suspect. Was even my job for awhile, till I got the idea in my head that maybe savin' people was more worth it. Would I have slit their throats?" He gestures to where the bodies once lay.
"No, and I ain't convinced Kaylayne would have on a normal day either, but today ain't normal. She came here lookin' for somethin' that wasn't a fight. Even invited us along, that ain't typical for the woman we met in the Lurch not that long ago. Then Riddleport did what it does and Kays slittin' throats on a church floor. No, I wouldn't have done it, but I ain't got a problem killin' those who are willin' to kill. If the rest of you had joined me on the floor, none o' us would have gotten back up. They had a pile o' bodies somewhere too."
He sighs heavily and looks Lief in the eye, gaze unwavering.
"I worked for a man that had me stabbed in the gut for my interview. One day, it's gonna be my body piled up outside some shack, a proper Riddleport funeral that. I've been killin' and avoidin' gettin' killed since I was a boy, and it's gonna catch up to me. I don't expect more 'an' that, but I'm gonna kill any bloke that tries to make it happen until I can't fight any more. That's my take on killin', for whatever you want to make of it. You got morales kid, good ones, but leaving a trail of livin' bodies only means more knives in the dark."
As Garridan leaves, Kaylayne tries to press coins into his hands.
"This is my doing, let me bear the burden. You've done enough already..." If Garridan will take the coins, she will give them.
* * *
Kaylayne double searches the thug rooms.
Perception
* * *
Kaylayne is edgy and nervous until the group returns. She is nearby and at hand when Garridan is ready to feed the potion to the priest.
As Garridan leaves, Kaylayne tries to press coins into his hands.
"This is my doing, let me bear the burden. You've done enough already..." If Garridan will take the coins, she will give them.
"No don't worry about it now Layne we can settle up latter," Garridan says prior to leaving. Poor girl has enough to worry about right now.
* * *
Upon his return Garridan approaches Layne and shows her the stein. "This should do it," he says. He proceeds up stairs to administer the potion to the stricken priest.
In the bell tower Garridan finds another cache (apparently Beltias liked to spread his hidden loot around) which contains 132 gp, 256 sp, a quartz short sword pommel (30 gp), a silver anklet chain (22 gp), a signet ring of Korvosa’s Ornelos family (5gp), an ornate brass candelabra (15 gp), a bronze knocker in the shape of a dolphin (10 gp), a folding marlin spike (2 gp), a set of sailing charts in a leather tube (250 gp), a magical feather and a magic wand.
The party climbs the steps again to the priests quarters and administers the potion. Father Padrick seems to cough some of it back up onto his tunic, but he reflexively drinks down the bulk of it. Within a very short while, it becomes obvious this is what the priest needed. Color (not all, but some) returns to his face and he groans in his stupor.
Within moments, he opens his eyes a little and coughs some more. He tries to sit up, but cannot unaided. He whispers what must be an old standby… ”Welcome to St. Caspieran’s Salvation. I’m Father Padrick. What help do you need?” and lies back in his bed, tired from the effort. He smiles, though he looks a little bewildered and looks to the party for an explanation.
Kaylayne, noting the sputtering of the priest, focuses her attention on the magics that Garridan found while waiting for others to explain.
Spellcraft - feather
Spellcraft - wand
There is also a magic dagger and magic morningstar to ID.
Assuming you do so, and take-10 to speed things up a bit, it's a +2 dagger (!) and +1 morning star.
In the bell tower Garridan finds another cache (apparently Beltias liked to spread his hidden loot around) which contains 132 gp, 256 sp, a quartz short sword pommel (30 gp), a silver anklet chain (22 gp), a signet ring of Korvosa’s Ornelos family (5gp), an ornate brass candelabra (15 gp), a bronze knocker in the shape of a dolphin (10 gp), a folding marlin spike (2 gp), a set of sailing charts in a leather tube (250 gp), a magical feather and a magic wand.
Dimitrio nods in appreciation, "This should help offset the cost for the potion, eh? Good job."
Within moments, he opens his eyes a little and coughs some more. He tries to sit up, but cannot unaided. He whispers what must be an old standby… ”Welcome to St. Caspieran’s Salvation. I’m Father Padrick. What help do you need?” and lies back in his bed, tired from the effort. He smiles, though he looks a little bewildered and looks to the party for an explanation.
"Aha! I told you it was poison; didn't I say so?" The bard is full of himself and proceeds to let the priest know that there is a strong suspicion that he was being poisoned.
"Is someone going to tell the other priest in here?"
"You got morals kid, good ones, but leaving a trail of livin' bodies only means more knives in the dark."
Lief remains quiet for a moment, taking in the man's background. "You could just as easily argue that leaving a trail of dead bodies leads to harsh judgment and those who would avenge those you killed. But I get your viewpoint, Ederin. I don't agree with you, but I respect your justifications. I'm only glad I sleep behind a locked door. You might want to go on shifts sleeping in the same room as Kaylayne."
Lief remains vigilant on the first floor, and waits for the others to return from their ministrations.
Within moments, he opens his eyes a little and coughs some more. He tries to sit up, but cannot unaided. He whispers what must be an old standby… ”Welcome to St. Caspieran’s Salvation. I’m Father Padrick. What help do you need?” and lies back in his bed, tired from the effort. He smiles, though he looks a little bewildered and looks to the party for an explanation.
After listening to Dimitrio's explanation Garridan gets Layne's attention, "Layne your priest is awake."
"Layne, your priest is awake."
Kaylayne sighs, hoping she could escape this part.
Why did I come here?
"Welcome back, priest. Stay in the bed, you are still weak yet. But at least you are no longer on the brink of death," Kaylayne rises to pour some water for the man, creating water to fill a chalice. She hands it to the man.
"I'll make this short so you can recover...and even recall Jhonas to explain things in more detail. We...uh...I came here this morning seeking council and guidance on a private matter. I thought that Sarenrae would be able to help me...or at least listen. What I found instead is thugs and robbers in your Church. I'll let Jhonas explain that. We dispatched them when they tried to rob us." Kaylayne pours a glass of water for herself, hoping that holding a cup would ease her shaking hands.
Why is this so hard?
"As I said...our attackers...and your interlopers, met the fate they deserved. In a search of their room, we learnt that they were harvesting scorpion venom and were skillfully processing it into an ingestible. We suspect that they have been poisoning you for a while...but you'll have to speak to Jhonas about how long. We procured an elixir for you...and here we are."
Kaylayne drinks again.
"I suppose you will get better over time if the poison is no longer administered to you. As for us, with you being awake, we'll be leaving." Kaylayne sets down her cup and makes to leave.
The old priest sits up, a little, and sips at the water. He speaks slowly and with much effort. ”Was it that rat Beltias? As you may imagine, we see all sorts here, and will take in all who are in need. But that one, yes, I worried about his soul from the start.”
He rests a little while before speaking again. ”You said you came seeking council and guidance. Pray child, what is it that I can do for you?” he coughs and rests his head back down on the pillow.
" I don't agree with you, but I respect your justifications. I'm only glad I sleep behind a locked door. You might want to go on shifts sleeping in the same room as Kaylayne."
Ederin shakes his head and smiles wryly.
"That's somethin' I s'pose. I like you kid, but if you don't trust us not to kill you, well, I really got no idea what to tell you."He stands with a grunt and goes to pat Lief on the back, but thinks better of it. He mutters something about leaving him to mull things over while he goes to see how the others are faring with the priest.
As he nears the room he's relieved to see the priest has recovered and he waits quietly to see if Kay finally explains what brought them all here to begin with.
If I got one thing in common with Lief, it's wantin' answers about what the hell happened today.
”You said you came seeking council and guidance. Pray child, what is it that I can do for you?”
Kaylayne coughs on her own disgust.
"I came here with the smallest sliver that you might be able to help me. I don't have much faith in the gods...they all seem so flawed to me. But today has just proven that you can't help me. At least not as you are. I might come back. I might not. You need to get your own house in order first, Priest, before I'll let you into mine."
"As you wish my child... come back any time. Beltias hasn't killed me, nor have my many days. I'll be here for you."
He settles back into bed and, for the first time in weeks, a restful sleep.
The party, I think, makes it's way back to the Gold Goblin, perhaps a little wiser about the harshness that Riddleport can bring to bear.
Ederin puts the right spin on why you should hire on with the Gold Goblin and attracts some attention to the fighting pit. Saul still puts the idea on hold though, worrying about pushing Zincher too hard just now - even with the Gendarme. ”You keep working the angle though, and feel free to express public dismay at my holding you back. Let’s give it a couple weeks.”
Dimitrio and Zuria continue to entertain the crowds that pour into the Gold Goblin. It’s unfortunate their stage is so small, but they do a good job moving through the crowd on the hot summer nights. Dimitrio feels he could really break out if only he had more space.
Kaylayne continues to improve the bar, and the back bar procedures - as well as her own signature drinks. She has a pool of regulars now who come just for the drinks and don’t do much gambling. Larur would rather see them do both, but money is money and Kaylayne is bringing fresh blood through the doors - can’t ask for more than that!
Garridan does well to replace the damaged gambling equipment and even makes a few improvements along the way. Will his foresight be required? The Gold Goblin guards seem to nod and agree, but the Gendarme feel it’s overkill - they’re here now.
Lief continues to gather information about the opposition, and spends a little time gathering it on Saul as well. The depth of positive feeling toward Saul by some of his fans amazes him. So unreal!
Saul is impressed with how quickly things get back to normal at the Gold Goblin. Sure, you were closed for a third of a week, but the cash that rolls in at the end is nearly the same as it was the week before! This week the party earns another 30gp same as last week.
- - -
Go ahead and do another week, and another roll. There are no special events this week, unless the party goes and does something again. :)
Taking his weeks cut from Saul Garridan can't help but think, It wasn't easy money this week but it was well deserved. He begins his next week trying to figure out how they can better utilize the space down stairs. he has given up on the idea of a brewery and decides that expanding the gaming are down there might work and begins drawing up plans to present to Saul
Dimitrio's new illusion spell was put to very good use in no time. It looked like they had hired a new dancer as he went backstage and came out like a slender elf. He changed up his dance steps and presto, the Goblin had a new dance number with which to entertain its patrons.
Dimitrio took his bow and basked in the adoration, even with a very nervous Zuria next to him. this girl has no sense for show business!
"As you wish my child... come back any time. Beltias hasn't killed me, nor have my many days. I'll be here for you."
Kaylayne nods, internally wondering if the pain of her current existence will outweigh the annoyance of coming back again.
Prof (Barkeep)
She ponders it on Moonday, it sends her spiraling on Toilday, and by Oathday, she decides it's affecting her work. She decides to go check on the priest.
"I'm going back to St. Caspieran’s Salvation to check on Father Padrick. I hope it's not as exciting as last time...but I thought I'd check up on the Priest," Kaylayne hedges obviously.
"Might as well see what's become of our bloodshed."
Lief throws himself into his familiar routine, time away from the Goblin to seek correlations between establishments, from restaurants, to casinos, to brothels. He seeks out symbiosis- the establishments that seek to support each other through bundling activities, and pursues possible ventures for Saul to follow up on.
Upon return to the Goblin, he largely focuses on his alchemy kit, and sets to work on trying to produce alchemist's fires, hoping to arm himself with items that will discourage thugs from his personal space. For the expense of a single item, Lief manages to create two fires, botching the last attempt.
He also begins making modifications to his alchemy lab, hoping to stabilize his vial holders from vibrations through the floorboards, as well as add splatter shields when he can't regulate the cook temperature for his time away from the room. He visits various markets to obtain tools that can help him with fine adjustments.
Lief joins Garridan on the day he secures his altar, should the Caydenite raise no objections. "Garridan, if you don't mind, I'd like to discuss the church subject a little more. You said that you'd likely do 'the same', were it your sanctuary, but I wasn't clear about that. You'd fall into the same deference as Jhonas, if you found yourself outnumbered as greatly as he, or you'd not hesitate to defend your church against interlopers, with lethal force? What does your god say about redemption?"
The day after the church incident Ederin collects everything his group retrieved from the thugs and heads to the markets. He doesn't invite anyone to go with him, feeling that everyone could probably use some time to themselves.
He takes another opportunity to climb the Cyphergate, and considers his conversation with Lief while looking out at the city he both loved and hated. The blot overhead seemed a permanent fixture now.
Before heading back home he takes his share of the gold and scours the markets for any items of use. He also picks up a few travel items, thinking he might eventually take a day or two to camp out in the forests surrounding the city.
As the week goes on Ederin tries a new training approach with his guards. He brings in the would-be pit fighters to spar with them, hoping that the display will both impress Saul and get him moving on the money pit, but also introduce his men to new fighting styles so they can be better prepared for what everyone inevitably assumed was on the way, another raid.
Ederin is not antisocial, but he's not particularly social either this week, opting to spend his evenings drinking at the Goblin and quietly watching Dimitrio perform his show,which continues to elicit applause, even from Ederin himself, his natural Varisian inclination toward entertainment overtaking his glum mood. He asks Sam to identify the potion they found in the church, excusing himself shortly after to avoid explaining where they got it. He offers to follow Kaylayne to the church, as protection, given the results of the last trip.
Kaylayne nods to Ederin as she belts on her armor and weapons in preparation for going out. She is happy Ederin will be coming along given the events last time. When she leaves the Gold Goblin, she pauses at the door, looking up and down the street for things she hopes are not there. As usual, she has rocks in her coinpurse and her other coinpurse hidden under her amor.
She travels directly to the Church of Sarenrae, pausing outside to examine the exterior for differences from last time and for random thuggery before entering. She enters with trepidation, looking for the priest, but also prepared to flee quickly if things don't look right.
Lief joins Garridan on the day he secures his altar, should the Caydenite raise no objections. "Garridan, if you don't mind, I'd like to discuss the church subject a little more. You said that you'd likely do 'the same', were it your sanctuary, but I wasn't clear about that. You'd fall into the same deference as Jhonas, if you found yourself outnumbered as greatly as he, or you'd not hesitate to defend your church against interlopers, with lethal force? What does your god say about redemption?"
Garridan gladly accepts Lief's offer, "A little company would be welcome." He listens to Lief's questions and surmises, This man is a thinker and is truly having problems coming to terms with what happened the other day.
He takes some time and answers, "I meant both, I try not to put expectations on other people's actions, so given the same circumstances I might act the same way. Do I approve of what Layne did. No, I would have tried to stop her if I was there when she killed those men. Does it mean Layne is not to be trusted or a villain, I wouldn't say that either, as there are few I trust more.
He sighs and takes a deep breath, Layne made a choice and is going to have to live with it. Fortunately, everyday is a chance for redemption. And redemption is easier to find when you have good friends helping you along the way."
"I'm going back to St. Caspieran’s Salvation to check on Father Padrick. I hope it's not as exciting as last time...but I thought I'd check up on the Priest," Kaylayne hedges obviously.
"Might as well see what's become of our bloodshed."
Kaylayne and Ederin return to the scene of the crime after a few days and much has changed. The place still looks run down, but there’s a tough looking gent at the door, smiling at passers by and inviting them in - even helping the more physically disabled into the church. The graffiti on the doors has been removed, and the place has a ‘lighter’ feel to it.
Being invited, she steps inside and faces much the same as before. Lots of people, in dire need, piling up in the hallways and common areas. But, as it’s a mission of sorts, that’s to be expected - she’s not, as before, confronted with hostility and greed. Jhonas is not immediately visible, but she does see Father Padrick, being helped by a younger man, moving through the crowd.
Presuming she presents herself in some way, she is greeted warmly by the old man. ”Welcome back my child. Are you ready for help? I stand, or at least stoop, to your service.” the old priest smiles. He’s clearly not up to full strength yet, but he’s pushing.
Kaylayne edges into the church until she is sure it is not some sort of trap. In addition, she looks for things she wishes she could not and did not see.
She excuses herself from Ederin. "I'll just be a bit, Ederin. I appreciate you coming, but this I must do alone. You can wait or head back...I think...I think I'll be fine." Kaylayne says bravely but her face belies that.
"Do you have someplace where we might speak in private? Complete privacy?" Kaylayne asks, looking around and hoping there is a free room open.
Kaylayne helps ease the Priest into a chair, tending to him. Kaylayne doesn't need him strong, but attentive and focused.
"I'm sorry to bother you with this...but...but I haven't been myself. And I don't know how to handle it. I hope that you could ask Sarenrae to fix me. Can she fix me? I can pay!" Kaylayne nears gets out her real coinpurse but stops to compose herself.
"Let me explain more..." Kaylayne breathes deeply and starts from about 6 months ago when she was first leaving work and saw herself. She will detail most of the story in Kaylayne's Profile.
"And I saw my death again last week in a bar fight...<describe battle in kitchen>," Kaylayne finishes, her face pale and trying not to cry, but also relieved to have someone to speak to about it.
Kaylayne stops to breathe and compose herself.
"It's weird, I...I can do things that I couldn't do before too. I'm...I'm...not myself. Like...like...I just know that I can make you feel better. I just know it. Look..."
Kaylayne gingerly puts her hands on the Priest and begins to recited words that she barely understands, but words that came to her during her morning reflections.
"That isn't right, is it? Why? WHY AM I DYING!?!" Kaylayne worries. "Can you fix me? What can Sarenrae do?"
The old man weeps with Kaylayne as she tells her story, perhaps for the first time. His are honest tears of longing to fix whatever might ail the poor woman seated before him. A longing to do what can be done…
”My child, how horrible that you should have lived through such an event. But know this - you are alive. You did live through it. By the blessed light, you are more than you were then, and you will continue to grow, and heal, with time. I do not know where your power comes from - within? without? - that is only something you can answer if it can be answered at all.”
”I am a simple man. My power comes from Sarenrae, and there is much I can do with her blessings. However, I see nothing in you that requires ‘fixing’. You are a whole woman. You are not dying, in any immediate sense. You may be changing, but change comes to us all - sometimes dramatic, sometimes in small ways - but always change happens.”
He stands over her and moves past her. He returns with a fine, but empty, bottle. ”This is the last bottle of wine I drank before Betias completely ruled in my stead here. It’s the last bottle I will ever drink. In my case, evil was allowed to flourish because I was weak, and could not protect myself. In my case, this wine helped that process along.”
He hands the bottle to Kaylayne. ”Fill it. Fill it with your failure, whatever you think it may have been. Fill it - break it - accept it. For the failures of our past are not the failures of our future. Be the change in yourself. Take an active role. Do not accept the dying.”
”I think you will have a long life, filled with adventure and strife. But in the end, you will look back on your past - successes and failures - and see the greater glory of what you have achieved. Those thugs took nothing from you you cannot replace. Forget them with time, do right, and you’ll be fine.” he ends a little flatly, but the yearning to help is still strong with him as he reaches out and pats her lightly on the knee as a father might to a child.
"You did nothing wrong."
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"Layne made a choice and is going to have to live with it. Fortunately, everyday is a chance for redemption. And redemption is easier to find when you have good friends helping you along the way."
Lief nods, looking upon the dirty road they walk. "Oh, I wasn't talking about Kaylayne needing redemption. That's between her and the gods. I was talking about the men she killed. That day was the day after their last day for a chance at redemption, wouldn't you agree?"
The young man sees a particularly odd rock, and picks it up, turning it over in his palm. "Do you ever think about why we were chosen? You, I, and the others? Why that cyphermage pointed a finger at each of us? I do. That was no random act of selection. The cyphermage knew something beyond our ken, and in some odd way, I trust him, not you, or Ederin, or Dimitrio... or Kaylayne. Oh, don't get me wrong, I'm actually growing a trust for you, of course. We've worked together, and fought together, and I haven't seen anything that makes me question you, nor you I, I hope. I can only trust that cyphermage to have chosen Kaylayne for a reason, because her actions that day were criminal, and we're guilty by association for being in her presence that day, in front of those indigents." Lief looks away from the rock for a moment to look into Garridan's eyes.
"Riddleport Law is a fickle thing, Garridan, and we're associating with a criminal. Hells, we're getting paid, more like it. If Saul ever falls from grace, we're likely to fall with him. Like Ederin says, Riddleport up and does what it does to you, and you end up slitting throats on a church floor. Just, you know..." Lief grows quiet, because for the moment, he doesn't know.
Kaylayne accepts the bottle, reasoning out the value and symbolism of it.
"I will accept this, thank you...but what about the visions?! What about them? Can Sarenrae fix that? I have coin! I'll pay!" Kaylayne asks, confused. "What about the other 'me's? What about the death that I see before me?"
”Kaylayne, your visions. Perhaps they are not ‘things to be fixed’. Perhaps they are trying to help you. When you first saw, uh, it, you said you ran past and into the ally. Where you were attacked. Maybe it sought to warn you?”
”Also, your story of the owlbear, once again, could not the vision be there to help? It scared you away, and made you safe from the owlbear.”
The priest breathes deeply, unsure how to continue, ”I think you should seek to make peace with your spirit, whatever it may be. It is clearly a part of you and perhaps a part of the change in you. I don’t pretend to know about this spirit, but I do know that not all spirits are hostile.” he looks at his collection of bottles. ”Some spirits are very welcoming.”
He drifts a while before returning, "...and about death. Fear not death. Death follows us all, and takes us all eventually. I think you see fear before you, not death. Do not bow to your fears my girl. Confront them so they hold no power over you."
He stands, and looks down on Kaylayne smiling. "Now, I have other souls to tend this day. You are not in need of my ministrations any further I think. But please" he takes your hands in his old and worn with age, "If I may help in any way, do not hesitate to call on me."
There are a few unusual events during the week, all thanks to the blot if the citizenry is to be believed.
One day, a flock of sea gulls suddenly take to the air and begin flying in a growing cacophonous spiral. This continues for several minutes as the large birds wheel above the city in ever-gathering numbers. Eventually their erratic flight brings them into proximity to the Cyphergate, where they crash into it violently by the hundreds before the few survivors continue their ragged flight out to sea. For the next two days, crushed and broken bird carcasses wash up on the beaches around Riddleport and cluster as flotsam beneath the wharves creating a horrible stench over the south portions of the city.
Later in the week, a minor temblor strikes the city, causing only a little damage, but shaking everything pretty well for a few seconds.
The blot itself, as if in defiance, does not change.
When Garridan goes to pick up the altar he is quite pleased. The wood grain all cuts the right way, the scroll work is sublime, and in some areas seems to come from the very wood itself rather than imposed by a woodworkers chisel. A very fine piece of art for the bar. Very fine indeed.
Also, a loss. Samaritha is accepted by the Cyphermages and announces her departure. She’s there for very little of the week before leaving for bigger and better things, and so fails to contribute positively to the bottom line. Saul relies on her, and she is not there... .
Her departure is bitter sweet, as she has grown, at least a little, to like the group of you and what she’s been doing. But her future awaits, and she cannot delay it - nor does she want to. She promises to keep in touch, and asks that you each in turn do the same. She is most apologetic at her sudden departure, but it was known to be a possibility.
Garridan catches a couple confidence swindlers trying to mark a few regular players, and the reputation of ‘an honest game’ at the Gold Goblin continues to fester. He thinks about the various basement uses, but always Saul is hesitant, and puts you off, ‘just another week or two’.
Dimitrio once again dances his heart out - this time taking on another persona to boot! As he says, Zuria has some trouble following, but she manages to make Dimitrio look good in the end.
Kaylayne works, but is distracted by her need. Mid week she goes back to the church to resolve her problems - or at least confront them.
Lief falls into his routine and provides much meat for Saul to chew. So much in fact that Saul is hard pressed to work all the leads he’s providing. (your purchases/manufactures are fine)
Ederin seems to focus most of his time on himself, but still manages to aid Saul’s forces almost absent-mindedly. (your purchase options are all available.)
Sadly things do not fall into place as well with Saul. He is absent much of the time, ostensibly following up on leads for Lief, or other Goblin business. However Larur is having trouble getting time with Saul, and things are falling through the cracks. Though the underlying infrastructure continues to grow, the daily payouts remain flat on the week. If it weren't for the excellent week the party had, Saul may well have dragged the operation backwards...
You gain merely the same 30gp you gained from the prior week.
- - -
Please feel free to continue chatting, etc. and engaging a few more days, but no further. Let me know if you have any more shopping to do as well before the next scene - which I'll start tomorrow if there's no further discussion.
"Riddleport Law is a fickle thing, Garridan, and we're associating with a criminal. Hells, we're getting paid, more like it. If Saul ever falls from grace, we're likely to fall with him. Like Ederin says, Riddleport up and does what it does to you, and you end up slitting throats on a church floor. Just, you know..." Lief grows quiet, because for the moment, he doesn't know.
At a loss for words Garridan puts his arm around the young man, "Sounds like you could use a drink."
""Sounds like you could use a drink."
Lief smiles, nodding at the Caydenite. "I salute your solution. Lead on. Take care with altar. It's a thing of beauty. Let's see it safely back to the Goblin, shall we?"
Upon return, Lief watches with interest as the altar is installed. He's as interested in Garridan's pride over his new creation as he is in others' reactions to the addition.
"So, what is the drink of choice this side of the Varisian Bay?"
"So, what is the drink of choice this side of the Varisian Bay?"
With a genuine smile he says, "Anything wet." As he heads to the bar to order an ale.
"Something, uh, fruity, if you don't mind. My tastebuds haven't figured out the bitters yet, and a good drink should be enjoyable, right?"
He takes what Garridan orders, no matter, and either openly enjoys it, or forces himself to appear as if he is.
"So, how much longer do you see yourself working here? Since Samaritha's departure, I've been thinking of something similar. I've seen my fill of blood, so perhaps I should take up studies at the Lodge. I might just keep working for the money, get a little padding, then find work scribing or researching. I think it would suit me. Do you think you've found your calling here?"
Dimitrio spent the day at the Goblin trying to work some show-business sense into Zuria. All his gold made him happy, and he was seriously considering buying himself a superb weapon.
He ripped out his rapier and lunged at the air. He shadow fenced for a while, even working up a sweat. Truth be told, the young man had bloodied his blade more in the past few weeks here in Riddleport than he had ever in his whole life.
The loss of Sam hadn't affected him much, but he saw how it had affected his boss. He decided to train Zuria as a hostess on the nights they were not performing. A natural performer, he himself was an excellent host so he hoped that the girl watched and learned.
Other than following Kaylayne back and forth from the church Ederin hadn't seen much of the group, as the week closed out he stopped by Sam's room to ask her about the potion, but seeing she was out he went to look elsewhere.
She's really run away with this Cyphermage thing, good for her.
He heads into the main hall where he sees Garridan and Lief at the bar, apparently talking about their future with the Goblin.
"Mind if I join you?" He asks, pulling up a seat, finally fed up with solitude for the week. He slides the potion onto the table, not mentioning where it's from hoping not to upset Lief with more mention of the church.
"Would you mind lookin' at this before the drinks start? Been carrying it a while and I ain't got a clue what it is." He nods at the bartender who by now knows to bring him something dark and heavy.
"Lodge work might be good for you. That brain o' yours is goin' to waste here. Maybe Sam could get you in cheaper so you ain't spending all your sweets on entrance fees."
”I think you should seek to make peace with your spirit, whatever it may be. It is clearly a part of you and perhaps a part of the change in you. I don’t pretend to know about this spirit, but I do know that not all spirits are hostile. Some spirits are very welcoming.”
Kaylayne stands staring at the 'spirit' bottle, waves of emotions crashing over her at the priest's wisdom batters her with truth and insight. She drinks and examines her recent life with different goggles, seeing things from another aspect.
Overcome, Kaylayne barely nods assent as the priest leaves. She sits and thinks for several minutes before she even thinks to go downstairs. Her emotions are mixed, her thoughts a jumble of conflicts.
Sniffling, she leaves 100 gold under the priest's pillow. She considers it a small down payment for the priest for his thoughts and honesty. Trembling, she walks out.
Kaylayne walks downstairs on trembling legs to find Ederin. Smiling a forced smile, she is ready to go.
"I'm done here, Ederin. Let us swing by the markets on the way back...I could use some time to clear my mind and shopping seems to do that."
Lief welcomes Ederin to the counter, glad for more company. As he hands over the potion, the young man accepts it willingly, turning his attention on fully.
Lief hands it back, nodding confidently. "That consistency is remarkably similar to the concoction Garridan obtained from the Publican House. Looks like you have yourself another means of restoring someone's health, should it take another turn for the worse."
Lief takes a sip, holding it is his mouth to let the taste sit down. "So, Ederin, how was your week? Any word from the gendarme about the slaughter in the church? I hope not." Lief takes another sip.
"So, how much longer do you see yourself working here? Since Samaritha's departure, I've been thinking of something similar. I've seen my fill of blood, so perhaps I should take up studies at the Lodge. I might just keep working for the money, get a little padding, then find work scribing or researching. I think it would suit me. Do you think you've found your calling here?"
"Perhaps," he shrugs. "This is what I thought I've always wanted," he says as he looks around the Goblin. His eyes stop and rest on the new alter, "Lately, I can't help but think there is something more. That I am missing something, to be honest with you I think the Cyphermage had more in mind for us, more than us focusing on turning a profit for Saul. I just can't figure out what it is." He abruptly stops and takes another drink of his ale.
I'm done here, Ederin. Let us swing by the markets on the way back...I could use some time to clear my mind and shopping seems to do that."
Ederin stands up quickly when he hears the sound of footsteps on the stairs. When he see's it's the priest he nods politely and waits for Kaylayne.
Should probably stop comin' to this place. He thinks when he sees the state she's in.
"Yeah love, we can go shoppin'. Done a bit o' my own earlier this week for the same reason, but I figure there's always somethin' new for sale, eh? My daddy always said my mum would go shoppin' when she was shook up too. Must be somethin' in the Varisian blood."
He walks quietly beside her for awhile, never good with situations like this. Finally he looks up at the taller woman and asks what surely everyone must have been thinking for days.
"You want to talk about what went on in the church? Today, or the last time, don't much matter I figure, seems to me they're related either way."
-------------------------------------------------------------------
"So, Ederin, how was your week? Any word from the gendarme about the slaughter in the church? I hope not."
"Thanks kid, sure we could all appreciate having 'nother o' these on hand. My week? Pretty quiet, got m'self a new bow, ain't crossed any Gendarme since the raid here. Honestly I ain't sure they even care, unless we directly crossed the overlord, just more o' that Riddleport charm, eh?" He laughs but shakes his head at the same time.
"I did have the misfortune of almost slippin' on gull blood climbin' down the Cyphergate. Might not be sittin' here today if I had. What've you been up to? Hear you been bringin' all sort of weird tools into the Goblin."
"To be honest with you I think the Cyphermage had more in mind for us, more than us focusing on turning a profit for Saul. I just can't figure out what it is."[/b] He abruptly stops and takes another drink of his ale.
Ederin nods at Garridan. "Does seem a bit odd we ain't seen him again in the last month. Gave us potions and information but ain't asked anythin' in return? Smells funny to me."
Also, a loss. Samaritha is accepted by the Cyphermages and announces her departure.
Kaylayne hastens to find Samaritha when she learns the news.
"Sam! You can't leave us!" Kaylayne pounces quasi-playfully. "I haven't learned all I could learn from you yet!"
Kaylayne sets in to help Sam pack, happy for her despite her words.
"You know that your leaving will make Lief cry a bit? I think he fancied you, he did. Not sure he had the guts to mention it, but he did...but I'm sure you get that all the time," Kaylayne gossips.
"You promise you'll keep in touch, right? Maybe you'll come by for drinks some nights? It's on me if you do...and you know I'll make the best drinks for you."
Kaylayne enjoys the company of Samaritha for as long as she can before the woman goes to her newer and better life. Kaylayne sighs as the woman leaves, leaving her to face her reality without another woman friend.
"You want to talk about what went on in the church? Today, or the last time, don't much matter I figure, seems to me their related either way."
Kaylayne smiles, finding the topic of her actions at the church a *much* better topic than discussing the revelations from the priest.
"Oh that?" Kaylayne brushes the hair from her face. "The priest said 'You did nothing wrong.' I don't fully understand the tenants of Sarenrae, but I just might find out. I don't feel badly about what I did. I feel good, Ederin. I feel fine about that...I really do. There are three thugs that will never, ever hurt another. I know it's a small drop in the bucket of 'fixing' Riddleport...but taking their lives is not something I regret."
Kaylayne walks in silence, her mind bouncing between revelations and her past actions.
"If the priest didn't mind what I did, why would I carry that burden?"
Kaylayne breathes deep as they approach the shops and market stalls.
"Do you know what I want, Ederin?" Kaylayne asks but answers before Ederin can reply. "I want some books on Sarenrae...on all the gods. Maybe it is time I found religion."
Ederin listens to Kay, nodding along as she explains her rationale.
"I don't expect you to feel bad, Kay, hell I don't disagree with what you did, but that ain't exactly what I'm askin' either."
He sighs, not sure how to say what he means, he just spits out whatever comes to mind.
"You weren't you when we first went to the church. We been workin' together an' even livin' in the same room for awhile now, and I ain't ever seen you angry like that. We been attacked plenty o' times an' you never been..."
He rubs the back of his head awkwardly and looks down at the ground as they walk.
"Sorry, maybe it ain't any o' my business. Just wanna make sure you're okay is all. Where do you s'pose we find your books? You got a god in mind? Ain't never been shoppin' for beliefs before."
He smiles a crooked smile and laughs while he waits to see where Kay thinks they should go.
'Dimitrio' comes down and joins his friends at the bar. It is Dimitrio but his hair is longer and tied back in ponytail and he has a full grown beard where there was nothing there yesterday.
He smiles, showing pearly white teeth, and gets his usual light ale.
"Oh c'mon. What's all this mumbling? Why aren't you all bursting at the seams with happiness? I dare say these past few weeks have been my best yet and I think it can only get better."
He lowers his voice and turns to Lief, "You missing that smarty-pant wizard. I tell you I can probably hook you up with one of the succubi. I know for sure one of them has been asking around about 'that pretty smart boy'... Eh, how does that sound? She may not be the brightest out there but I bet she can show a thing or two."
Before Ederin or Garridan say anything, the bard smiles, "Sorry fellows but I didn't hear anyone ask about you. Not even ugly, old Mrs. Drury. You know her, the one with lots of money looking for... younger gentlemen."
"You weren't you..."
Kaylayne smiles as Ederin hones in on *exactly* what the problem has been.
"No, I haven't been me in a while, Ederin. I haven't been me in six months. I think...I think...I'm going to be better now. I think it's going to be okay," Kaylayne agrees. "I had some things happen to me...things that changed me. One thing was definitely bad, another thing I'm still working out. But...but...I think I could be better now. I just need some time."
"Where do you s'pose we find your books? You got a god in mind? Ain't never been shoppin' for beliefs before."
Kaylayne laughs.
"No, I haven't been shopping for beliefs before. Heck, there are only three to choose from in this entire horsepiss town. But that priest, no, not that jackwad Jhonas, the elder priest...maybe he's not as rife with stupidity as the rest. I just want to learn more, that's all. I want to know what's what. Ain't nothing wrong with learning, is there?"
Kaylayne heads into the first bookshop she finds, dragging Ederin along.
"Nothing wrong with learning, is there, Ederin? By the way, is there a god you favor? One that keeps your soul protected and your spirit warm? Maybe I'll need two books."
"Sorry fellows but I didn't hear anyone ask about you. Not even ugly, old Mrs. Drury. You know her, the one with lots of money looking for... younger gentlemen."
Ederin rolls his eyes at his flamboyant friend then pokes Garridan in the ribs and mimics stroking a beard, with an eyebrow raised.
"What Lief needs is a trip to the Calistrian Church, get himself a quickwife. Way I hear, the Tieflings can, well, I'll let him find out!"
Ederin pushes a seat out to Dimitrio and waves down the bartender so he can get a drink.
-------------------------------------------------------
"But...but...I think I could be better now. I just need some time."
"Well, that's something, innit? Glad your gettin' better Kay. Hope all this helps."
"Nothing wrong with learning, is there, Ederin? By the way, is there a god you favor? One that keeps your soul protected and your spirit warm? Maybe I'll need two books."
"Been known to swear to Ol' Deadeye on occasion. More cause that's what my dad did, less cause I got any strong beliefs. He's been around awhile though, seems a proper god if you're gonna believe in one. Hardwork, family type o' god. What was the priest like, one above Jhonas I mean, all I saw of him was spittin' up. Don't make much of an impression on a bloke, that."
Ederin scours the shelves for anything that might be helpful, muttering book titles to himself as he moves along. Anything relevant he pulls out and holds onto to show Kay.
Kaylayne smiles. It is a deep and pure smile of someone who has hope. (Such smiles are a rare thing in some cultures...but Kaylayne has a feeling that the priest has set her upon a different path. However, since the only path Kaylayne saw before was ending in her own demise, any other path was preferable. And she was eager to explore a new path.)
Kaylayne shops, sharing a few book titles with Ederin and getting his opinions on them.
"Deadeye? Oh...Erastil!? I don't know much about him..."
In the end, she buys a few books that mention Gods and spiritual matters in general. She intends to read them in her off hours or during slow times at the bar. She hasn't had time to explore many books in a while...but her new employment and relatively comfortable position has enabled her to feel like she could afford a few books...and the time to read them.
"Lately, I can't help but think there is something more. That I am missing something, to be honest with you I think the Cyphermage had more in mind for us, more than us focusing on turning a profit for Saul. I just can't figure out what it is."
"Does seem a bit odd we ain't seen him again in the last month. Gave us potions and information but ain't asked anythin' in return? Smells funny to me."
Lief raises his mug, as Garridan and Ederin share a very similar-sounding concern, and nods, taking another sip to join the Caydenite and the Archer in communion.
...
"What've you been up to? Hear you been bringin' all sort of weird tools into the Goblin."
Lief coughs briefly, then finishes his sip. "I didn't know it was so obvious. I suppose the smells alone are a little much, but..." He takes a bigger sip, holding it in his mouth as he excuses himself with a raised finger. He walks briskly across the gambling hall floor, and returns moments later. He holds up a single vial, handing it over to Ederin.
"Here. Never know when it might come in handy. A bit of alchemist's fire. You'll need a good eye to make sure it connects directly, but it's quite volatile if you get close too." Lief looks at it with a bit of pride. "That's this week's project. I'm going to expand my arsenal in a bit. All those tools are starting to make the desk a bit cluttered, but it's more than functional. Might even try for something a little greater quality, if we find it helpful."
...
""Oh c'mon. What's all this mumbling? Why aren't you all bursting at the seams with happiness? I dare say these past few weeks have been my best yet and I think it can only get better."
Lief looks over Dimitrio's shoulder, then back to the bar, making sure he doesn't see Kaylayne, before he leans in to as the bard a question. His breath is starting to take on the sour smell of his drink.
"You were there, weren't you? When Kaylayne went to work in church? What did you see exactly? Did she say anything? Couldn't you have stopped her?" Lief takes another sip. "I would have stopped her. I would have tried at least." He looks down into the mug, disappointed. He waves to the barmaid for another.
"You missing that smarty-pant wizard. I tell you I can probably hook you up with one of the succubi. I know for sure one of them has been asking around about 'that pretty smart boy'... Eh, how does that sound? She may not be the brightest out there but I bet she can show a thing or two."
"What Lief needs is a trip to the Calistrian Church, get himself a quickwife. Way I hear, the Tieflings can, well, I'll let him find out!"
An easy blush comes to Lief's cheeks, but a smile rises nonetheless. "I will say, the brothels are said to work up a man's thirst. I mean, you actually grow thirsty from the exertion? That must mean the exercise goes on for hours. That can't be real, can it?" Lief shakes his head.
"I hear to really understand the potential in that particular human need, nothing compares to the Calistrians. They do the real god's work, don't they?" Lief punches Garridan in the shoulder, a little sloppily.