"Well yes, but this temple isn't that far off the main road, and there are quite a lot of us, Larko. Eventually, someone is bound to hear something. And if they report noise disturbances to the Dottari, the Dottari will come investigate. Technically, all of us are guilty of trespassing, at the very least (our guilt of treason notwithstanding)," Shinon points out. "I'd rather not get involved with the Dottari, they're good people who only want to protect this city, same as us."
John, Kenji, Arael are able to get to the stable and meet up with duncan and Gorvio. Gorvio is gettigna tongue lashing form his uncle about the missing horses.
As Gorvio is set to go get Shinon's horse by the East Gate, Eromolos and Vitti appraoch leading all the other horses, except Shinon's. This calms uncle down considerable.
Janiven arrives with her own horse shortly thereafter. She goes with Gorvio to retrieve Shinon's horse.
John, Kenji, Duncan and Arael are able to get back to the safehouse without a problem by taking back alleyways and side streets.
Larko would respond to Andrea's quesiton about magical means of hiding the location, "Well Arael may have means but this is a temple and even though Asmodeus is openly prayed to within the city, an old law makes it illegal to desecrate or vandal a holy site. So, the lawful Hellknights don't snoop around these site because that would be crime. Sort of ironic isn't it? As far as others are concerned, as long as the nobles and the government don't have to pay for the upkeep they look the other way."
"If you noticed we keep the windows boarded up or covered with dark cloth and it looks rundown from the outside."
Andrea looks more relieved. That is good, and the divine blessings here will no doubt help as well. I woulnd't want to push things though if and when things escalate.
Andrea waves to the others when they arrive. Was there any trouble getting back? An armiger commandeered Shinon's horse and he decided it was best to let it go.
"Hello friends. And Arael as well! I'm glad to see you are all alright. Well then, if you'll excuse me, I have business that I need to take care of. I shall return before nightfall."
Shinon gives everyone a reassuring smile and waves, before heading out the door.
DM Only:
DM Only:
DM
I approach Andrea and Shinon. We back. Janiben come back yet?"
"Well that explains why Shinon's horse was at the gate with out Shinon."
I approach Andrea and Shinon. We back. Janiben come back yet?"
Andrea jolts a bit. Um.. I believe so. Ahah..Did anyone see her at the stables?
An hour afer everyone else, Janiven arrives at the safehouse. "I've been snooping for news and word is a band of rebels attacked the prisoner escort and without mercy killed several armigers. The number of dead varies from three to nine." She sees the small cast of Pitax red wine on the counter and pours herself a glass. She sips the soft balanced red, enjoying the tannins magic, a hint of blackberry and cherry is near perfection blancing the grape. She smiles unexpectedly.
"To avoid emabarrassment the leaders of the Rack are saying many were killed in the assualt. Word is the Rack is already demanding meetings with the commander of the Dottari and the Mayor and his top advisors. Apparently, those demands are falling on deaf ears."
Arael smiles widely and tips his tankard of stout to everyone there, "I think each and everyone one of you for saving my life. I am in debt. You have given life to the cause but now is the time to eat, drink rejoice in job well done. Tomorrow we plan the future." Clinking his tankard with each member as he walks walks around the table.
"Now, let us share some proper introductions as the lamb, carrots, and turnips are being prepared."
Fiosa, the hafling, has a huge grin on her face and say, "To new friends and companions, a start to a wonderful story."
About two hours after Janiven returns, Shinon carefully makes his way to the temple, doing his best to not be seen or heard. He quietly sneaks into the temple, and blinks in surprise. "Oh, hello Janiven. When did you get back?" he asks.
Glancing around, Shinon sees everyone safe and sound. He sighs in relief and takes a seat next to Larko. "So, you've had your first taste of battle. How do you feel now? Are you okay?" he asks the quiet man.
Andrea takes a tankard and takes a deep drink, smacking her lips as a little dribble of wine trickles from the edge of her mouth.To new acquaintances and more victories.[b] Andrea pops a grape into her mouth and clicks her teeth down, popping it before swallowing.[b]Tis a blessed day.
Shinon you heard a few rumors on your way back to the safehouse:
2. Two sellswords speaking, "Paralictor Gonville gard himself marched into Lord Mayor Aberian Arvanxi's office, flanked by three Hellknights."
3. Two merchants enjoying a cigar on the road, "It's the Council of Thieves that did the attack that half elf is important to them."
4. "Long live the Children of Westcrown" we have hope." and olderly lady told her friend outside the weavers.
DM Only:
Shinon stops cold in his tracks as he passes the merchants. He will round a corner and hide there, listening carefully to every word they say.
Perception:
I seek out Janiven once I receive word on her return. Once I find her, If she will see me that is, I talk with her. "Grad to see you made back safe. Was starting to tink you not coming. What news?"
When she unloads her story of whats she's heard I nod. "I see. But we onry beat em up. Where bodies to probe deats? Dey make deir own bodies don't day. If so den day worse dan I taught." i seem quite upset by the rumors.
Well there was the two I dropped wit me blade and a 3rd one knocked out. Not sire if tje first 2 lived
Arael listens to the discussion, "I doubt that the Rack did anything drastic to their recruits. However, those recruits may be stationed a the Citadel for an extended time to let this blow over. It is best if we all hang low for a while. Resume our daily lives, gather back here to share informaiton and stories we hear." Looking at everyones reaction.
"Anyone needing a place to stay is welcomed here," he offers looking at Shinon.
Janiven smiles at Kenji's reaction and concern. "The tavern is off limits now. The Hellknights will be looking for Arael and I there. Oh, I did hear a dwarf was involved in the ambush and a big hulking man carrying a tower shield. No other descriptions, yet." She looks at Duncan and John with an apologetic look in here eyes. "Good thing that storm occurred blocking vision quite a bit."
Dairy rives? Do dey not know who we are? I tought we were seen an shud stay hiding?
Probably a wise move. I need ta git back ta me forge an put stuff in order anyway. Also me boss should take these weapons an armor off ye hands. Nothing simpler than adding abit o filligree to an armor to change it's appearence. Got an apprentice who'll polish the black off to boot.
Arael responds to Kenji's concern, "Westcrown has over 115,000 people, its easy to blend back into society here."
Oh, I did hear a dwarf was involved in the ambush and a big hulking man carrying a tower shield. No other descriptions, yet."[/b] She looks at Duncan and John with an apologetic look in here eyes. "Good thing that storm occurred blocking vision quite a bit."
Bah, most humans cannae tell one dwarf from another in clear daylight. We'll be wearin helms from now on. Gonna fashion some proper half masks n helms. If'n yer all so interested in symbols ah'll craft us one. Five winged Helms and masks, crying tears fer those crushed under Thrune's rule. Ya wanna name fer this band o misfits. The Hand o Vengeance, says I.
Probably a wise move. I need ta git back ta me forge an put stuff in order anyway. Also me boss should take these weapons an armor off ye hands. Nothing simpler than adding abit o filligree to an armor to change it's appearence. Got an apprentice who'll polish the black off to boot.
I can aid in any exchanges of gems or valuable items. My work at the counting house gives me access to jewelers and bankers who can turn gems, metals and other items into coinage. Plus we have acquired armaments as an added bonus that can be stored here to arm the group as needed.
I shrug. "Is okay. I go back to construction. Is were I work most. Is dere anyting else need to be done at dis time?"
Janiven nods at Duncan, "The Hand o Vengenence" has a ring to it but it does sound a bit rebellious, that can bring the Hellknights out by the score." Shifitng her attention to Kenji, "You should be able to hear good rumors in consturction. We should avoid all getting together in hte public but smaller groups should be ok."
Mathalen asks Kenji, "Do you think it's possible to may..maybe teach me some of your hand and foot work in the evenings...or..when ever you can?'
One of young NPCs looks at Duncan, "Sir Duncan, I 'um have worked a forge fer a few years. I can help carry yer armor and lend a hand if ye be willin'. My master took ill a few months ago and hasn't been able to keep up...laid me off.' It is the muscular human, Ermolos, speaking his arms corded from years working in the smith's shop. He has a slight limp but otherwise in excellent shape.
I nod to Janiven. Then I turn to Mathalen and smile. "I not as good teacher as master but if you wish, I can show tricks. You've had any training? How do you usuarry fight?"
She responds to Kenji, "Well the three times I've had to fight I kicked and pulled hair and well,...I bit one guy once."
Come wit me then. I work the place not own it, but the boss may take ye on if yer as good as yer weapons say.
"I'll return to my teacher's home and continues my training then. I'll also be keeping an eye out for anything suspicious."
I chuckle. "Teet meant to eat food wit and rook nice when white. Onry animas fight wit teet. We not animas. Kicks good way to do damage, speciary when torso an arms is weak. Regs arways stronger. Rook nice on raidies who train dem weru too. Come. I show you some kick tricks. I take her to a clear space and show her some defensive stances that good use of kicks as counter actions.
I will return to work and arrange sale for some of the items that we have found in the sewer Andrea nods to Duncan and the others who went into the sewers. I will attempt to hear whatever I can but unfortunately I am out and about little due to having limited time. Fortunately, I often frequent several establishments and can hopefully get the news.
After any further talking and business is settled, Andrea takes her leave of the group.DM
Dearest Mother,
I have included this short letter along with my tithe to just update you on how I am doing? DO you remember how I told you how awful Westcrown was? No night life and terrible Hellknights really made me think about going to someplace else like Kaer Maga, but I have wonderful news! I've joined with a civic minded group who have plans to really change things around here.(Sorry, no details, it is that kind of group.) So I will hopefull be able to send better news in the future.
In fact, I do have better news! I met this absolutly delightful lady at the meeting and I think we really hit it off. I know you wanted me to find a nice boy but she is so yummy that I couldn't resist. Things have yet to solidify but I am certain that she has a lot of potential, perhaps even my first disciple!
Anyway, take care and say hello to everyone for me.
Your dutiful daughter,
Andrea
I chuckle. "Teet meant to eat food wit and rook nice when white. Onry animas fight wit teet. We not animas. Kicks good way to do damage, speciary when torso an arms is weak. Regs arways stronger. Rook nice on raidies who train dem weru too. Come. I show you some kick tricks. I take her to a clear space and show her some defensive stances that good use of kicks as counter actions.
She gets up commenting on, "The man didn't come closer when he was searchin' fer that ear lobe I bit off," she's eager to learn from you.
"I'll return to my teacher's home and continues my training then. I'll also be keeping an eye out for anything suspicious."
"So, you really train with a member of the Order of the Scourge? Now that Order serves a lawful cause going after those who prey on society's most underprivileged and combating crime and corruption,"Sclavo chimes. "Sound body, sound mind, sound spirt." A yearning in his proud voice.
Before everyone departures, Janiven would suggest to meet for early dinner in three night hence, if there is no urgent news before then. Remind everyone to keep their ears open for news.
Duncan, young Ermolos would assist gathering up the gear that is going with you for sale and reconditioning.
Replying to Sclavo John says "Yes my current teacher is from the Order of the Scourge, and some day when I'm ready I will also join that great order."
As he leaves he says "Very well, and don't worry I always have me ears open for trouble" He says to Janiven before he leaves. John then heads back home.
Shinon shakes his head. "I appreciate your offer, but the streets are my home, Arael. The night air calls to me. It is certainly not the safest life to live, but I have been living it since long before the shadow beasts arrived."
Shinon takes one last look at the group, and then shrugs. "I'm not hard to find, especially if I'm also looking for you. If any of you have news, or simply wish to converse with me, you can find me normally somewhere around the Parego Dospera, or the Dusk Market."
He gives a nod, and then exits the temple.
DM:
Sorry, Shinon doesn't feel that comfortable with this crowd just yet. I figure he'll probably settle in for the long haul by the end of Book 1, but for now he's not quite ready to stick around all the time. Still, the group shouldn't have a problem tracking him down when they need him.
Those that have not left the safe house yet, are soon treated with a debate on what to call the group. "We need a name that inspires, not cause fear." Tarvi suggests "Something like citizens for peace.'
Yakopulio chuckles, "The bloody knife."
Amaya shoots a nasty look at the sarcastic female gnome. "NO, no , no! How about Westcrown's children?'
"What about Guardians of Westcrown?" vittis suggests. There are a few nods.
Andrea makes sure to get to work as soon as dawn breaks and works until she has some free time, whereupon she visits her favorite eating halls that caters more to the armigers and soldiers, seeing what the authorities are doing in regards to their actions and other millitary gossip.
She also talks to the fellow who works the morgue and sees if anyone in particular has been dumping corpses that have been turned up. Perhaps matching the description of those they met in the sewer(which also moves into inquiring about those who have been using the sewers for mettings and travel) Andrea also arranges for sale of the various valuables and drops them off at the safehouse for division.
Duncan returns to work taking his new friend with him. It's a hard sell to get a new emplyee at the blacksmith, but the new 'stock' erases all questions. Dwarves new not to ask about such things. After all it was a violent world they lived in and things happen.
They sold the stuff to Duncan's friend and boss and set straight to work, changing the color and markings on all the gear.
John will spend his day training. When he is done training he will take his walk, keeping an eye out for suspicious activity and trying to listen to the gossip.
Grumm Sharpest growls at Duncan when he returns to the smithy's shop. "Ye brought a kitten too with ye. 'Bout time ye grace' us wit yer presence." Then his eyes fall on the gear the two brought him. He touches and eyes each pieece, his bushy brows rise and fall several times. Using his thumb nail to scrap off some of the dried blood. He chuckles, "Ye just sort of come 'cross this stuff did ye?" not really wanting or expecting an answer.
He turns and focuses on Ermolos, "Let me see yer 'ands boy." rubbing his calloused hands over the boy's hardened palms. Nodding approvingly. "Ye worked with Master Bryum before he turned ill? Good man. Let me see yer weapons on yer side." He lets out a whistle, "'Aye, I put ye to work and 'ssume ye are learning how to use those fine weapons from that one." pointing his thumb at Duncan.
John arriving at your mentor's training center there are two huge warhorses tied to the hitching post. The warhorses have the familar spiked wheel symbol of the Order of the Rack is on each saddle. Heavy steel shields hanging from their left side.
Inside the training center the voices are booming and clear. "Sir Decan, we do appreciate your time in this matter keep us advised. I WILL see you in five days time. We will let ourselves out." The sound sof heavy boots on the the tile approach.
Two large Order of the Rack Hellknghts approach. Each carrying a helm under their left arm. Beautifully polished longswords hang from their sides, and a battle ax on their back. Their armor is black, as is their cloaks which ar timmed in crimson.
They each give a curt nod to you as they pass you.