Ariarh did not feel comfortable discussing Alaric in front of Shaezon, Arasmes, Oleg and Lady Turon. But since they were in the Council meeting chamber and time was of the essence, Ry catches Kae's eye and begins speaking.
"Kae, did you notice something strange about Alaric's ring? I mean the last time we saw it was after his resurrection outside the Spider's Nest and the ring became fused with his flesh. The ring is now loose and Alaric twists and turns it and has been doing so since our return to Saravale. It is as though something has changed, been broken or altered in the ring."
Ry pauses, not knowing if it is wise speaking of Alaric's cursed ring in front of the visitors. Addressing the individuals who are not part of the ruling Council, "I hope what is being said in this room will not leave these walls. If the people believe their leader is not of right mind they may lose confidence and there will be major unrest in the town and we can't afford such a predicament."
Back to Kae,
"The ring is cursed and we have been naive in its hold over Alaric. I mean he warned us a long time ago of the visions and voice coming from the ring that only he was privy to. Sylvath spoke of it being an heirloom of an ancient ancestral house aligned to his people. Thus, a ring of note and high lineage. A silver-haired warrior, whose standard was a white ship, battled a dragon, Draco Ignus was the name or so we have believed. The silver-haired man was cross-blooded like Alaric. He had a powerful enemy, a man with the mark of the bleeding roses who cursed the ring upon the silver-haired man's victory and continues to curse whomever wears it. Mayhap the evil presence within the ring has taken over Alaric's mind?" And then, "Also, did you notice the wide palisade fencing the western spur of the town? We already have an idea of what kind of evil lives in the swamp within the crater. There was some kind of slime or ooze near the rim...
The Lady Turon nods at you briefly, and takes her staff, holding it in her hand and sliding it over the ground for a sense of where the stone and other obstacles for her feet may be.
”I agree with you, Lady – we should go find this child. She is a dragon blooded creature – it is obvious, even if our Lord Winter had not so named her. She has, one day, the potential for great good, but in the wrong hands – with no guidance or teaching… Such power could go far astray. Yes – we should see her out quickly then,” the elven lady adds, moving to the door.
Shaezon has been quietly taking it all in.
Speaking telepathically to Mister "There is a lot more going than I could have ever suspected. Here I thought human court would be less intricate than Elven."
Mister:"I have my doubts that this is the last suprise."
Shae:"Well, hopefully this foray will still allow me to get some spell research done. *sigh* perhaps anyway."When Alarac declares him part of the council;
Shaezon nearly chokes on the bite of food he was slowly chewing. After a brief moment of coughing and sputtering, Shae quickly composes himself. He begins to reply "My lord, I appreciate your confidence in me, but it is too much." However Shae is cut off as Alarac changes the subject. It's probably best to let that go for the moment. It was a rash action and surely no one will want relative strangers on the ruling council. Shaezon has no intention of holding them to Alarac's promise. (At this time Shae doesn't know that Alarac doesn't have such power
Ry pauses, not knowing if it is wise speaking of Alaric's cursed ring in front of the visitors. Addressing the individuals who are not part of the ruling Council, "I hope what is being said in this room will not leave these walls. If the people believe their leader is not of right mind they may lose confidence and there will be major unrest in the town and we can't afford such a predicament. "The ring is cursed and we have been naive in its hold over Alaric. I mean he warned us a long time ago of the visions and voice coming from the ring that only he was privy to. Sylvath spoke of it being an heirloom of an ancient ancestral house aligned to his people. Thus, a ring of note and high lineage. A silver-haired warrior, whose standard was a white ship, battled a dragon, Draco Ignus was the name or so we have believed. The silver-haired man was cross-blooded like Alaric. He had a powerful enemy, a man with the mark of the bleeding roses who cursed the ring upon the silver-haired man's victory and...
Most of your rolls are not relevant at this time (read – Geography, for example), and some of them were relevant and not high enough, and some of them were spot on and high enough to gain information.
Of course, you do have some issues because your character does not actually have much in the background of these things. Nevertheless – I shall do what I can to answer your question with your compiled set of rolls at this time.
The Ring: This is indeed a ring of power from a noble house. Its true purpose was to magnify the natural powers a being possessed. If a person possessed the ring it would magnify his inherent powers on a greater scale – improving their talents and giving them the ability to do what they do best – only better.
Whatever their primary class’s prime stat would be (Int. for Wizard – Wisdom for Cleric and so on) all skills in that field would have eventually gone up by +4 misc. modifier. Also – all special abilities of the Favored Class would be considered +2 levels higher (I.E. Casters would Cast at 2 levels higher then their level – Barbarians would Rage at 2 levels higher and gain Rage powers two levels Higher – Rogues would gain Rogue Talents as if they were 2 levels higher – and so forth).
This would not effect their BAB, Saves, spells known and so forth – but the special powers within would be far greater then their class allowed.
The ring was designed to assist a leader in what he must do – helping him any way he could. But it was a vessel – a tool. If the person who held the ring had good intentions they would do good things with the ring – if they were of evil intentions the ring would be filled with the power to do evil things.
The ring is like an empty vessel – and it needs power to fill it – an energy, or life force. The energy came from the person who wore the ring – a person with a strong Will – a Will to dominate the ring and bend it to their purpose. The person who possessed the ring must be able to extend their own Willpower on the ring and dominate it for their own desires. Such a person, if successful, could do great things – but if another had already bent the ring to a purpose that was opposed it – the next person who possessed it must not only dominate the ring – but the former essence that controlled it.
Your metamagic conclusions
1. The ring itself is akin to an artifact. You aren’t simply dealing with the “mundane” magical rules here – it won’t be solved with the traditional magical solutions.
2. You’d guess that Alaric tried to solve more of the ring’s powers – but this is the confusing part – if he tried and failed, chances are he’d suffer. If he succeeded, then what’s the problem? He wears the ring – no one else does – so why can’t he use it to the full potential – unless he failed in his test. But if he failed – he isn’t dead or at least shows no signs of suffering. It seems unlikely the test was pushed to the next level, then.
3. If your theory is correct – the ring bound to him for a purpose, so one else could take it and use it. Now it isn’t… You saw Alaric twisting it around easily on his finger. Also, if someone else unlocked the power of the ring and had the power of the ring, and could wear it – then maybe someone else, if they wore the ring – could use the power on their own and possibly dominate another.
4. The ring is a vessel that is filled with a power – the ring itself is neither good nor evil – but magnifies the power of the person who wears it. That person, if they wear it, must first dominate the ring for their own purposes. Alaric has not dominated the ring fully – but he is different somehow.
Question: what is then causing Alaric to act this way? It does not seem likely that it could be the ring. And yet, it seems extremely likely that there is a strong link.
Oleg looks around at all of you who remain in the room.
"Welll... it looks like it is about time for me to be heading outside -mayhap I'll be seeing on Master Brett - finding out how we done be doing, eh?" he adds politely, but he is now quickly edging for the door and excuses himself abruptly from the rest of you.
You do not know if he is searching for Master Brett - but you have a strong sense he'll be heading downstairs right quick to examine the contents of a very strong drink...
Alaric's attitude, language and demeanour had disturbed her deeply. The words coming out of her friend's mouth did not sound like him, felt wrong, altered in some great way. She was now beginning to fear for Anuk-Su's safety and well being. Ariarh was fearing for the Council and the community, as well.
Turning to the intuitive Lady Turon, "Milady, the ugly words uttered from my Lord's mouth was so unlike him. Believe me when I say, the man I know is kind, good spirited and respectful. This Alaric Winter you have witnessed, he is a stranger to me, and makes me uneasy. Your advice regarding the Lord's ward is a sound one and I feel we must heed it immediately and determine if she is safely ensconced in her rooms. When I mentioned the child needed guidance and advised she apologise I did so with her welfare in mind, realising that children require rules and boundaries and to understand that actions have consequences, no matter the original intent or emotion. I would not see her whipped or beaten (or worse!) for such a childish disregard to the safety of those she would call ally. Nay, I could not ask such a thing of anyone, would never ask it. I shudder at the thought." Ariarh is contrite in her prior words, overwhelmed with fear for the child and thinking she is partly to blame for Alaric's reaction and intention of discipline and punishment.
"Lady Turon, would you accompany me to the Lady Anuk-Su's bedchamber? I do not feel she will readily open the doors to me or want to speak with me after the words we shared this day. I cannot leave her in the naive belief that she is safe inside these walls. Mayhap together we can talk to her and perhaps she will see why I reacted as I did to her outburst and we can find an amicable middle ground. Will you help me, Lady?"
...
To Ariarh, as she visits Anuk-su with Lady Turon.
You and Lady Turon ask for the location of Anuk-su’s quarters and are directed to the very summit of the fortress – on the south westerly side.
Arriving at the top you notice that there are no people living this high up. You are not overly surprised. Despite the fact that is early Spring, it is still very cold in the caves, and the opening on the summit lets chilly air blow into the rock tunnels.
The doors itself is recently made – as are all of the doors in the fortress. You look at it, though, and are somewhat surprised. The other doors it has a modest lock with a heavy bolt and place for a key – but this door – though it once had such a space for it – looks like someone has taken a tool and cut it from the wood. The door can open and close – but there is no way to properly lock it.
Surprised at this, you knock once and hear a voice from inside telling you that you may enter.
When you finally enter the room of Anuk-su you are surprised at its interior.
The room is extremely Spartan in the furniture – there is little of it, and what you discover is extremely functional; there are no opulent designs or overly plush things. But, that is the furniture.
Firstly, you see no bed. Rather, there is a heavy stack of large rugs, not unlike a futon, on the ground. The rugs are not woven, but they are made of animal skins – bear, elk, and some sheep. You also see that there are a few pillows, but they are also similar in make – mostly sheepskin rolled into tight bundles.
In the corner there is what looks like a wardrobe. The door is open and you can see inside it several various robes are hanging. You know she wears robes in human form, and you can see that they are clearly for a female child of her size and shape. None of the robes strike you as opulent, or even fancy. The robes are very simple, very mundane in their look.
There is also a tall series of shelves – roughly six feet in height and about four feet in width. On the shelves you see various things – stacked neatly, though.
Mostly you observe strange oddments – various skulls – Ariarh, your Druidic lore can tell you without even much examination you are looking at skulls of wolves (2), bear (1), what looks like a very large and heavy, almost human-like skull (second glance – it is a hill giant skull).
There is a small box with a glass cover on it – inside the box, carefully ordered and number is collection of teeth – you need a second look – but they look like various different types; wolf, bear, some sort of tusk, a large serrated fang, and others. You cannot tell exactly – but there are little scarps of parchment by them – and you can just make out writing on the parchment.
Finally, there is a sturdy desk, and Anuk-su is sitting at it, her back to the door, and seems to be writing something.
You move to her, and she does not turn to great you, but continues to work on her project.
When you look at it over her shoulder you can see that she is sketching the patterns of the rug you had found – and that in the side of the journal you can see she has written notes.
You also see that her handwriting has the same child-like scrawl of any other six year old you may have noticed at a academy for magi – and her spelling is poor – but her vocabulary is very advanced.
”Hello Anuk-su,” Lady Turon says softly, so as not to disturb the girl.
”Greetings,” she says flatly.
”We – Lady Kane and I – are here to talk to you,” Lady Turon continues.
”Talk?” she queries with suspicion ”Ah! I see.”
She turns to look at you – and you see her expression is still flat, and she glances between you both, but says nothing.
”He is using thee this time – very well,” she adds without an emotion or tone.
”Using us for what?” Lady Turon asks, a touch of confusion in her voice.
”Spare me thy theatrics,” Anuk-su says with an edge to her voice.
”I know why thou art here – get on with it then. What is it today? He has given up on the lash – I know that. What now – will it be… will it be the box again?” she asks, and you can hear her voice break a moment, though she juts her chin forward, attempting a cavalier attitude.
”The box? What is that?” Lady Turon asks.
”Never mind – it does not matter. Today it is a new game – during daylight, this time – not nighttime. Or perhaps this is simply the preamble? Thy shall simply talk me to suffering, today, eh?” she adds, but you can see that her gaze, normally so cool and proud is now tense, nervous, and her eyes seem to flutter between the two of you – resting especially on Lady Turon – who she has never seen before, and who’s powers she does not know.
”It is quite… it does not matter,” she adds, attempting to compose herself somewhat and maintain what dignity she possesses, as she stands from her little chair and looks at you both.
”The lash did not break me – the box… it was… It does not matter. I – nay, not at all. I yet live. You can tell thy master that his best efforts against me do not matter. He has yet to make me weep – and he shall not!” she adds somewhat forcibly, even as she edges a bit away from the two of you, scooting back against the wall somewhat.
”Tears are for women and children – I am neither – I am Draco argentums – I weep for no man – demon – nor any enemy; no matter what his purpose. Kill me if you prefer, torture me if you must; but you cannot make me weep,” she adds the last, her voice now cracking somewhat, even as she stares at you both defiantly.
Your metamagic conclusions
1. The ring itself is akin to an artifact. You aren’t simply dealing with the “mundane” magical rules here – it won’t be solved with the traditional magical solutions.
2. You’d guess that Alaric tried to solve more of the ring’s powers – but this is the confusing part – if he tried and failed, chances are he’d suffer. If he succeeded, then what’s the problem? He wears the ring – no one else does – so why can’t he use it to the full potential – unless he failed in his test. But if he failed – he isn’t dead or at least shows no signs of suffering. It seems unlikely the test was pushed to the next level, then.
3. If your theory is correct – the ring bound to him for a purpose, so one else could take it and use it. Now it isn’t… You saw Alaric twisting it around easily on his finger. Also, if someone else unlocked the power of the ring and had the power of the ring, and could wear it – then maybe someone else, if they wore the ring – could use the power on their own and possibly dominate another.
4. The ring is a vessel that is filled with a power – the ring itself is neither good nor evil – but magnifies the power of the person who wears it. That person, if they wear it, must first dominate the ring for their own purposes. Alaric has not dominated the ring fully – but he is different somehow.
Question: what is then causing Alaric to act this way? It does not seem likely that it could be the ring. And yet, it seems extremely likely that there is a strong link.
Remember - this is OOC commentary - please phrase the information in character, assuming your character chooses to share it.
Ariarh is perplexed at the significant changes made to the girl's chamber. The lock had been removed for a purpose and it seemed obvious to her it was to stop the girl from refusing access to another. This did not bode well.
The jars of skulls and teeth reminded her of the Osirions and her skin shivered. Why would such items be in her sleeping chamber? She made a mental note to ask Anuk-Su at a later time.
As the Lady Turon gently spoke to the little girl, Ariarh listened but quietly moved about, drawing closer to the shelves lined with the jars of teeth, curious to the inscriptions on the scraps of parchment.
The magnitude of the silver wyrmling's words reached Ariarh's ears and her system went into shock. Ariarh clenched her fists and breathed in air, enough to compose herself before she attempted to speak or act.
Turning around and seeing the little girl backed up against the wall, Ariarh halts her movement forward and remains still where she stands.
In a gentle, contrite voice, Ariarh begins,
"We are not here upon anyone's behest. I came to apologise to you. When I asked Alaric to mete discipline, I meant removing a favourite trinket or toy or setting you up with a chore; mayhap have you apologise to the Council. I did not mean for him to inflict actual, physical harm to you. Please believe me, Milady, such a thing is abhorrent." Requiring clarification of events going on in the Keep that she was unaware of, she presses on, "Anuk-Su, who has been punishing you and how long has it been going on?" Ariarh tries to keep the urgency and passionate emotion from her voice.
Looking thoughtful Shaezon thinks aloud,
"The ring must be of artifact strength and as such many of the traditional magics won't be effective. If he tried to delve more deeply into it's powers and failed their should be some kind of negative effect, but as far as I can tell and you have said there isn't. Save for possibly this recent irrational behavior. Of course that could just be stress. The ring is no longer physically attached to him as it once was. Perhaps it want's a new, better, master. Again assuming it has intelligence as some such items do. Or perhaps it's already dominated ALarac and is seeking to do the same to another. The ring doesn't seem to overtly assert control over Alarac, so it probably doesn't have a sense of right and wrong. It is neutral, if you will. It's also entirely possible that something else is causing Alarac's behavior, though the timing with the ring is quite a coincidence. Is it possible his ward has some means to control Alarac?" All of this is spoken theoretically and not accusatory.
"The only influence I have ever witnessed between father and ward is Alaric spoiling the child with trinkets and alike, nothing ominous. He had such a strong affection for the child and readily demonstrated it."
"I seldom believe in coincidence, Shaezon. It could be the ring, or perhaps a spirit possession of a kind? We have issues deep in the swamp that lies centre of this land. I wonder too, may an evil Djinni take possession of a human? There was this djinni, named Amun, whom we recently confronted and he flew away. We have been awaiting a reprisal as we have some of his possessions."
Your metamagic conclusions
1. The ring itself is akin to an artifact. You aren’t simply dealing with the “mundane” magical rules here – it won’t be solved with the traditional magical solutions.
2. You’d guess that Alaric tried to solve more of the ring’s powers – but this is the confusing part – if he tried and failed, chances are he’d suffer. If he succeeded, then what’s the problem? He wears the ring – no one else does – so why can’t he use it to the full potential – unless he failed in his test. But if he failed – he isn’t dead or at least shows no signs of suffering. It seems unlikely the test was pushed to the next level, then.
3. If your theory is correct – the ring bound to him for a purpose, so one else could take it and use it. Now it isn’t… You saw Alaric twisting it around easily on his finger. Also, if someone else unlocked the power of the ring and had the power of the ring, and could wear it – then maybe someone else, if they wore the ring – could use the power on their own and possibly dominate another.
4. The ring is a vessel that is filled with a power – the ring itself is neither good nor evil – but magnifies the power of the person who wears it. That person, if they wear it, must first dominate the ring for their own purposes. Alaric has not dominated the ring fully – but he is different somehow.
Question: what is then causing Alaric to act this way? It does not seem likely that it could be the ring. And yet, it seems extremely likely that there is a strong link.
Remember - this is OOC commentary - please phrase the information in character, assuming your character chooses to share it.
** spoiler omitted **
Same question: Planes
Arasmes has looked on in shock at the events unfolding before him. He longed to meet Lord Winter and see the vision that he had created for the society of Saravale. The actual meeting fell far short of his expectations and in fact horrified him at the occurrence. When Shaezon and Ariarh start speaking of the ring and possession Arasmes speaks up and says I have some knowledge of such things as well perhaps I might be of assistance
Ariarh is perplexed at the significant changes made to the girl's chamber. The lock had been removed for a purpose and it seemed obvious to her it was to stop the girl from refusing access to another. This did not bode well.
The jars of skulls and teeth reminded her of the Osirions and her skin shivered. Why would such items be in her sleeping chamber? She made a mental note to ask Anuk-Su at a later time.
As the Lady Turon gently spoke to the little girl, Ariarh listened but quietly moved about, drawing closer to the shelves lined with the jars of teeth, curious to the inscriptions on the scraps of parchment.
The magnitude of the silver wyrmling's words reached Ariarh's ears and her system went into shock. Ariarh clenched her fists and breathed in air, enough to compose herself before she attempted to speak or act.
Turning around and seeing the little girl backed up against the wall, Ariarh halts her movement forward and remains still where she stands.
In a gentle, contrite voice, Ariarh begins,
"We are not here upon anyone's behest. I came to apologise to you. When I asked Alaric to mete discipline, I meant removing a favourite trinket or toy or setting you up with a chore; mayhap have you apologise to the Council. I did not mean for him to inflict actual, physical harm to you. Please believe me, Milady, such a thing is abhorrent." Requiring clarification of events going on in the Keep that she was...
Glancing at them you can quickly see the handwriting is succinct and synonymous with the same handwriting in the book Anuk-su was working on.
They aren't really your main focus, so you barely give them a look but you can see that each tooth is lined up and cataloged, not unlike a butterfly or stamp collection.
The teeth and skulls, however, indicate dates, times, and locations - some of the dates as old as two months. You would guess this is something Anuk-su has been doing for some time.
It seems like she has made a collection of trophies of enemies that she has slain in the field. Battles with monsters - whom she slew - and then took trophies.
As a Druid this doesn't make you feel very happy - but, it is no less macabre then many a comfortable den of local tradesmen who would have a deer head on the wall, or a stuffed bear in the corner.
- you are also able to notice that despite her somewhat childish scrawl that she is extremely intent and focused on what she wrote - almost as if the young lass is very neat, very tidy - and borderline "OCD" - especially with dates. You can also see the details on the papers seem to mirror her own voice, too.
Slew the hill giant - alone. A touch difficult - but in the end no match for my skills. - and so forth.
Little children, even dragon kind, often like toys and collections. Perhaps the toys and collections of a young dragon are more fierce then a human - but there is nothing sinister about this. Although, it does show you she is very intent on details, getting things "just so" and making sure all data and facts are collected and presented just right.
Anuk-su looks between you for a moment. As you show no signs of spiriting her away at this point - she seems to relax somewhat. She pauses though, as if considering her words carefully - before she answers.
"Alaric punishes me - he has been getting some sort of fits... Today is third day since they happened. We were eating together, as we do, and then, as night fell he suddenly became mysterious... odd, muttering to himself... I asked him why he behaved as so and he said I was wrong to question him - he... he told me that my actions would not be tolerated... that there was a reason my people were destroyed - he did say, too that I should not be overly surprised to find another return and the task be finished!"
She looks between you two again...
"He told me that I was arrogant - and of a vain and filthy race - that my bloodline was corrupt, and he would cleanse me of the taint! He scourged me, but I did not weep - such things are a dishonor - this merely amused him and seemed to inflame him - eventually he grew weary, and then claimed he needed sleep."
"When he awoke in the morning he recalled nothing - he demanded that I be healed of my wounds, sending for a cleric - I said nothing then - for I sensed there was something amiss - and of the pain? What of it! Is he not aligned to me through prophecy? Perhaps - yet what is clear is that I would wait, and study and see what happened... Through the day he as himself again - kind, generous - yet, I sensed something else... his manners, though courtly - they seemed.... odd. As if there was a slyness to them - as if it was not quite sincere. I wondered, then, if he were attempting to mask his darker side by feigning courtesy - yet I did not think so. It was as if there were something at play - something contesting his will - I wondered at what it may be..."
"The next night was worse - I locked myself in my chambers - and he entered through force. There was none to help - for he had sent my subjects on matters of import - whether true or false I know not - yet none of the town knew me well enough to approach me. The second night was worse - he used the scourge again, but then he devised a more... "Suitable Punishment"... as he said... he called it "the box"... I shall not speak of it..." she adds, trailing off.
Seeing that you are not trying to hurt her and are listening to her and seeming like you want to help, she continues, taking strength from your sincerity.
"Something dark is at work with him - after such a fit occurs he is filled with weariness... he retires, sleeps and then awakens later - forgetting all that has happened. In this he does not lie - I sense that much - but... Beyond that? I do not know... I saw the Demon-spawn before us... my thoughts drew back to not only what happened before... but... could he be an agent working with what forces bound itself to our Lord? Could there be a connection between this outsider and what we saw? I do not know - I am not pleased with this - I assure thee.... I acted boldly - it is said that the gods favor the bold. If you feel I erred - then you have apology on that. I am not too proud to admit an error - though... I am not sure of thy evidence, yet."
"Our Lord spurred by demons... literal indeed! And then, in his very court a demon-spawn is uncloaked - unmasked, and seeking allegiance to the same Lord who had tortured me through the night? What would you have done, sat there unawares? Perhaps - and perhaps he may have cast a spell on thee... but in either case, I shall not slander thy thoughts - you did not know about what I have suffered..."
She adds the last almost to herself.
"I shall add one thing - though... if I may - there is a wide world around us - with many things occurring each day... Sometimes things can happen when a person is gone and, when they return... they discover their entire house in disarray... Before a person reacts to a particular missive it seems best if they learn all the facts... else... well... let us say that there was a great deal which happened while thy were away north. And - what happened when you were gone? It had given birth to the repercussions that thy spied even today..."
Same question: Planes 1d20+8
** spoiler omitted **
Your combined knowledge rolls on the Planes reveal no specific instances of a Djinn such as Amun taking possession of the body of another.
It should be added that a Djinn such as Amun is typically considered a person belonging to a race of goodly creatures... noble, proud and honorable.
Of course, you each are free to consider that not all creatures act like the "stereotype" of their race.
Arasmes has looked on in shock at the events unfolding before him. He longed to meet Lord Winter and see the vision that he had created for the society of Saravale. The actual meeting fell far short of his expectations and in fact horrified him at the occurrence. When Shaezon and Ariarh start speaking of the ring and possession Arasmes speaks up and says I have some knowledge of such things as well perhaps I might be of assistance
1d20+8
1d20+8
1d20+8
You have said little - but taken time to listen. The pieces are like a puzzle, and it strikes you almost curious that, if your new companions had arranged them somewhat better - they would be able to see things more clearly...
In fact, it is almost obvious - how can they miss it?
The ring is a vessel - a neutral power not unlike a tool which magnifies the strengths of the individual who possesses it. This much is clear.
The ring has tests that must be completed before one can properly unlock the powers.
Once one has unlocked the powers - they may use the powers, but cannot share the method of unlocking with another.
Alaric has not unlocked the final powers, but others have.
Only those who wear the ring can use the powers.
Therefore -
IF Alaric has not unlocked the full powers of the ring THEN he cannot use those full powers BUT another who had the powers unlocked can use them.
IF the ring must be worn to have access to the powers THEN the person who wears the ring has access to the powers.
IF Alaric had the ring fused to his finger AND it is no longer fused to his finger THEN it seems likely the ring is not being properly "worn" by Alaric.
Conclusion -
Since Alaric does not have full access to the powers AND he is not wearing the ring "properly" THEN something must be wearing the ring instead.
Hypothesis -
Either that's not Alaric - or something else is wearing the ring, even as it rests on his finger.
Ah, logic - what do they teach these children in those schools?
Even as you consider your options and the matters regarding what you have seen, the door swings open and Brett walks in.
His face is grim, and he says nothing, but moves with a direct purpose over to the table and begins to sift through the papers and documents.
In short time he has collected a few notes and details and set them aside in a bundle ignoring others.
Content at what he found, he then collects the documents he wants into a neat little pile, bundles them up and takes them, leaving the bulk of the documents on the table.
Glancing around at all of you, his eyes flick to Arasmes last, seeing the Tiefling fully unmasked. Brett does not look surprised, nor does he look especially angry, his face is – best put – simply neutral.
But, as noted before – when Brett acts neutral, this is generally what you consider an act. He does not typically behave without his boisterous manner…
”Beg pardon, all… as ye still be needing this chamber, though I don’t be knowing why…” he adds somewhat deliberately ”I’ll just leave you to it. But, if ye don’t mind, there’s a heap o’ paperwork to sort through – nothing that ye’d give tuppence on – I’d reckon – just the task o’ ordering and running a kingdom… checking taxes, what we got’s in our vault – that sort o’ thing.”
He glances through some notes quickly, sorting through things, muttering a bit to himself.
”Don’t worry gang – I’ll be getting back to ye on the usual hash about how much we earned, or lost or if we’re going to survive as a nation or flounder in our first months,” he glances up at the ceiling somewhat absently.
”Ye know, they see nearly all small nations fail in their first year…” he adds.
Glancing back down at a particular page with a long list of notes, his eyes scan it quickly, widen in surprise then narrow in concern. He whistles tonelessly.
”Huh! Seems as if we had a fire a few days ago – not to mention the attack on the capital – and o' course we keep getting so many “independent businessmen” jumping up and so forth – hmm….” he adds, reading something intently.
”Oh, never you mind – go on about yer business… Don't let me interrupt ye," he adds.
Heading from the table he wander over to you all, pausing when he passes for a moment.
"Oh, yeah – here,” he adds, handing Ariarh a package - it is roughly a eighteen inch cube shaped box.
”Ye may want this – it came from yer folks… could be important,” he adds, looking up at the young lass, his disinterest seeming to waver as he studies her eyes a bit, making sure she is okay.
”Well – anyhow," he adds "as this chamber is clearly not for such hum-drum hash as running things, if ye’ll excuse me, I’ll be downstairs at the tavern below – having a pint – yes, I said it – a bloody pint – looking things over and so on. If ye ever figure out what ye’re be doing here – come and find me. Meantime, Kae – remember that rain check I promised ye? Well, any time ye want to cash it in let me know – we’ll head out to the ol’ laundry and see that lad Otter… get ye a nice piece o’ pie… Ye know, enjoy yerself – live a little… that sort of thing.,”
Brett then moves by the group and walks over to the door, heads outside slams it behind him.
Ariarh stood, listening intently to the little girl's account of the last three days. Alaric, you would never do such a thing, especially to a child and having known unjust discipline in his own life. Ariarh is heartsick that her friend has been reduced to this villainy ... and concerned that an impressionable young dragon has been subjected to such cruelty and torture from one she trusted.
"May I approach closer, Anuk-su? I promise not to harm you."
"My heart is sick over what has happened since I travelled North. I would never condone this treatment of a child and especially not to you, Milady. We have time before sundown, since that seems to be the moment Alaric transforms into this ... villain. How may we help you? Would you see us take you away from the Keep, possibly ride you down in secret to one of the trusted families, such as the Banks? I will heed your wishes, alas I must tell you that I cannot in good conscience allow you to remain within these walls unprotected when I know your guardian is perpetrating such cruelty upon you and may yet do some unspeakable act."
Turning carefully toward the silent Lady Turon, she asks, "Lady Turon, what do you suggest for I seek your steady counsel. This revelation has left me dismayed beyond words. I seek the safety of this dragon child as she is the last of her kind. Should I remove her from this fortress or secure her some place within until we discover what is ailing this land and our leader at present?"
Arasmes thinks for a moment before speaking in a even tone. I cannot be certain but there are things about the current situation that stand out to me. It seems that the fusion of the ring to flesh is part of the burden of wearing the ring. Considering that, it seems that there are two options. One is that Lord Winter is no longer wearing the ring and has been replaced with a doppelganger of sorts. The second is that Lord Winter has been possessed by some dark force and that entity is using Lord Winter's body to use the powers of the ring. Neither option is pleasant and these are just conjecture but they seem to fit. As to what to do about this, I am not a member of the council no matter what Lord Winter has said. For it is obvious with the state of mind he is in, or influence he is under, nothing that he says or does can be taken as anything legitimate.
Shortly after alaric leaves, before the discussions progress too far, he says, "there has clearly been much going on in our absence. Especially with the untimely departure of Sir Winter, I was a fool to leave the security of the city to whomever it may fall to without a word. I've been remis in my duty, and must seek to rectify that. I shall track down Sylvath, Gladius, and whomever else has taken an active role in enforcement of law and the protection of our people. I'll be investigating the sourse of the fire, the wall, and see if I can't find brett and get him to look intoDeVille and Woo's actions as of late."
he looks sternly to Ariarh, eyes full of worry,"Please find out what Ails Alaric, you've known him longest, and I know you care for hhim. I'll be by with Sylvath at my first convenience to speak with arasmis and ally the fears any may have of him. I take my leave" he says with a bow, going to do as he said he would.
Heading from the table he wander over to you all, pausing when he passes for a moment.
"Oh, yeah – here,” he adds, handing Ariarh a package - it is roughly a eighteen inch cube shaped box.
”Ye may want this – it came from yer folks… could be important,” he adds, looking up at the young lass, his disinterest seeming to waver as he studies her eyes a bit, making sure she is okay.
Ariarh takes the medium-sized box and holds it in her hands for a moment, not knowing what to do with it with all the others around her discussing important issues. She asks quietly, "Is it safe to open? I know I sound suspicious, but there is something amiss in Saravale and I want this present to be real and not some nasty surprise by a hidden enemy." Ry sounds tired and you can see worry etched over her features. You can also see that a package from home is something she has been craving for, missing her family as she has been.
Ariarh stood, listening intently to the little girl's account of the last three days. Alaric, you would never do such a thing, especially to a child and having known unjust discipline in his own life. Ariarh is heartsick that her friend has been reduced to this villainy ... and concerned that an impressionable young dragon has been subjected to such cruelty and torture from one she trusted.
"May I approach closer, Anuk-su? I promise not to harm you."
"My heart is sick over what has happened since I travelled North. I would never condone this treatment of a child and especially not to you, Milady. We have time before sundown, since that seems to be the moment Alaric transforms into this ... villain. How may we help you? Would you see us take you away from the Keep, possibly ride you down in secret to one of the trusted families, such as the Banks? I will heed your wishes, alas I must tell you that I cannot in good conscience allow you to remain within these walls unprotected when I know your guardian is perpetrating such cruelty upon you and may yet do some unspeakable act."
Turning carefully toward the silent Lady Turon, she asks, "Lady Turon, what do you suggest for I seek your steady counsel. This revelation has left me dismayed beyond words. I seek the safety of this dragon child as she is the last of her kind. Should I remove her from this fortress or secure her some place within until we discover what is ailing this land and our leader at present?"
Anuk-su seems tense as you draw close to her. You have a feeling that this little girl is not much of a "hugger" and has endured difficulties lately besides that have strained her.
"I should say that, as thy may know - I am a dragon - I can fly with ease from this place, should I choose to. But I do not - I have given my word to Lord Winter that I will stay by his side."
She adds the last, biting her lip, clearly frustrated. You know enough, though - that for one such as her - young though she is - she will not break her word.
"Further - I still believe that there may be a chance to save him - to assist him - if we can... though I do not know how it can be done..." she adds.
"I would leave - if I could - but honor will not permit me to do so..." she says with a simple shrug.
"He knows it, too... he laughs and lords it over me - when the fit is on him - telling me that I can be free if I will break my word and run - when I do not... he can be very cruel."
"But - I do not know if that is his full intent - something is moving in him - a dark presence. If it can be cured.. .then waiting here would be worth it. I do not hate him - only the presence that holds him so tightly."
"Until that time - perhaps I may be used... as bait?" her eyes gleam, and she suddenly perks up at this thought.
"If you then gather - wait for him - and he makes his attack against me - then, perhaps, as this is a... Republic? In any case - as it is such a government, perhaps you can outvote him - and, if he is removed from office he can be bound, studied, and in time... healed," she adds with look at you, cocking her head, wondering what your thoughts on this matter are.
Heading from the table he wander over to you all, pausing when he passes for a moment.
"Oh, yeah – here,” he adds, handing Ariarh a package - it is roughly a eighteen inch cube shaped box.
”Ye may want this – it came from yer folks… could be important,” he adds, looking up at the young lass, his disinterest seeming to waver as he studies her eyes a bit, making sure she is okay.
Ariarh takes the medium-sized box and holds it in her hands for a moment, not knowing what to do with it with all the others around her discussing important issues. She asks quietly, "Is it safe to open? I know I sound suspicious, but there is something amiss in Saravale and I want this present to be real and not some nasty surprise by a hidden enemy." Ry sounds tired and you can see worry etched over her features. You can also see that a package from home is something she has been craving for, missing her family as she has been.
Brett pauses, standing by the door - he narrows his eyes and waves his hand. The package glows a bit.
"It ain't trapped - if ye worry on that..." he says with a shrug.
Walking back, he peers on the package, looking at closely.
"Also - if I don't miss my guess... this be yer folks handwriting... Oh! Though I ought to add - it also be touched with a wee bit o' magic - real minor aura of Enchantment on it - it seems..." he adds to Ariarh.
"Do what ye think is best - but I reckon it be safe enough - but if ye need a hand - let me know..."
It seems that the fusion of the ring to flesh is part of the burden of wearing the ring. Considering that, it seems that there are two options. One is that Lord Winter is no longer wearing the ring and has been replaced with a doppelganger of sorts. The second is that Lord Winter has been possessed by some dark force and that entity is using Lord Winter's body to use the powers of the ring. Neither option is pleasant and these are just conjecture but they seem to fit.
"In either case, we may presume that Lord Winter is currently unable to properly rule or lead. This information must be kept between us and no one outside of this room, bar Brett, must know of our suspicions. We need to find Alaric as soon as possible and hold him while we investigate and find a method of healing him, if one exists." How does a capital city continue with a questionable leader? The Council must step in and remedy this. She hated doing this to Alaric but right now there seemed no other option.
Brett pauses, standing by the door - he narrows his eyes and waves his hand. The package glows a bit."It ain't trapped - if ye worry on that..." he says with a shrug.
Walking back, he peers on the package, looking at closely.
"Also - if I don't miss my guess... this be yer folks handwriting... Oh! Though I ought to add - it also be touched with a wee bit o' magic - real minor aura of Enchantment on it - it seems..." he adds to Ariarh.
"Do what ye think is best - but I reckon it be safe enough - but if ye need a hand - let me know..."
Ariarh is relieved to hear that the package is safe and there are no traps to worry over. Indeed, the writing was in her mother's hand; she had allowed momentary fear to cloud her better judgement.
"Thank you, Brett. I lost my head for a moment and was not thinking clearly. I shall open it after I have seen to Anuk-su."
Ariarh remained quiet for a moment and when it looked like Brett would leave the chamber, she halted him by grabbing his arm.
"There's something amiss with Alaric, Brett. It is deeply troubling me, but he may not be the man we knew. He seems ... altered in a fashion that makes my skin crawl. We need to speak with him and I need you to be there and aid me, if possible. We cannot turn a blind eye to this." Ariarh looks down at the Holbyt with saddened eyes, hoping to garner his support or perhaps hear some encouraging words from him. She was a druid and all these machinations of court were not easy or straightforward. Sometimes, it just got a little much and she tried her best. Some days she wondered if her best was good enough.
Brett eyes narrowed, and he twitches his cloak away from his weapon.
"Aye lass... I be going to do some business with Kae, first, but let me look in on him."
Brett turns and wanders through the other doorway to the council chambers, the same one that Alaric went into.
He is gone for a moment, and then comes out with a frown, papers in his belt and pistol in hand.
"Alaric lad be out cold - dead asleep - if sleep it be. His eyes be open, I thought he be a goner, hurried to check on him - his pulse be strong and steady - but it be looking like he in some sort o' heavy slumber, if it weren't fer the bloody eyes."
Brett thinks about that for a moment, considering things.
"I wonder what could have made him pass out so hard and fast, eh? Looks like he went through a heavy strain... near dead asleep," Brett adds, almost absently.
"Funny thing, too... he ain't in a real bed, but rather, he got all laid out in some kind o' heap o rugs, like a pile of mattresses... but ye know what? The one he be sleeping on be the very same one we done snaked from the Osirion - huh! Imagine that," Brett adds, slipping his pistol back into the holster.
Heading back to the door again, he pauses.
"Used to have a cousin who had fits kind o' like that - though different sort - shaked a lot, if ye understand me - but then, anyway - afterwards he wake up with all his muscles locked and sore - headache like a mule kicked it - and said he didn't feel right. Went away in an hour or so - maybe that what happened to Alaric... I say give him some time to rest up. I'm sure it'll be fine - Alaric must have just had a long night, eh?" he adds with a sheepish grin.
You think Brett is making a bold face on stern matters, as if it is all some sort of joke to him. But you are also not sure - maybe Brett is trying to act like a joke - so the new "guests" don't think that the new nation is so weak and insipid that it cannot handle itself with ease.
"Oh, hey now Ry, lass... ye seem like ye had a hard day - why don't ye go head up to talk with Anuk-su; try to give her some good advice. Lady Turon could probably help - Oleg be downstairs drinking it up fine. Kae - if ye want to give me a hand checking things out - why not?"
Brett pauses, looking at the others.
"If ye two got a mind to be useful - now be the time fer it. Meanwhile - here be a notion - if ye ain't got nay more to offer here - why not head down to village, if ye want, and pick out a room. Ye earned at least a free months rent - room and board, if I may be so bold," Brett adds agreeably, though his gaze be on Shaezon exclusively.
Turning once to Arasmes, Brett addresses him as well.
"Oy! If ye want to go truckin' about in the town - maybe ye ought to cover up. Not everyone be as accomodating when they see ye as ye really are, eh?" Brett adds.
Then, if there is no more business, he shrugs and heads to the door, calling over his shoulders.
"Reckon I should be more upset about some o' the stuff here - but with all I done just seen - I really don't care anymore... So, do what ye ought to do..."
"I wonder what could have made him pass out so hard and fast, eh? Looks like he went through a heavy strain... near dead asleep," Brett adds, almost absently."Funny thing, too... he ain't in a real bed, but rather, he got all laid out in some kind o' heap o rugs, like a pile of mattresses... but ye know what? The one he be sleeping on be the very same one we done snaked from the Osirion - huh! Imagine that," Brett adds, slipping his pistol back into the holster.
"Brett, ah, I do not believe Alaric is suffering from an ailment similar to your cousin's. That damn rug! Could it be ... Brett, remember the lit runes and patterns we discovered on the Osirion's rug and how we surmised the rug was some kind of a portal between our plane and the Plane of Air? Could an evil planar spirit have come through the portal as Alaric slept and claimed Alaric's body? Could it have in turn displaced Alaric's soul/spirit and transported it to the Plane of Air? The ring was fused to Alaric's finger and now it is not. Something broke the bond."
"Hard to say about all that, Ry lass - maybe ye should ask Anuk-su? She loved that bloody rug, if ye recall! Nay doubt she might got a piece o' wisdom on it, eh?" he calls out, waiting for the others to decide what they would do.
"I would leave - if I could - but honor will not permit me to do so..." she says with a simple shrug.
"He knows it, too... he laughs and lords it over me - when the fit is on him - telling me that I can be free if I will break my word and run - when I do not... he can be very cruel."
"But - I do not know if that is his full intent - something is moving in him - a dark presence. If it can be cured.. .then waiting here would be worth it. I do not hate him - only the presence that holds him so tightly."
"Until that time - perhaps I may be used... as bait?" her eyes gleam, and she suddenly perks up at this thought.
"If you then gather - wait for him - and he makes his attack against me - then, perhaps, as this is a... Republic? In any case - as it is such a government, perhaps you can outvote him - and, if he is removed from office he can be bound, studied, and in time... healed," she adds with look at you, cocking her head, wondering what your thoughts on this matter are.
"Lady Anuk-su, before coming to find you Brett informed me he had checked on Alaric and he appeared to be in very heavy slumber, even though his eyes were wide open. Brett could not rouse him and left him be. He mentioned that Alaric was resting atop of rugs, most importantly the one we took from the Osirion, Amun. It is a gateway, Milady, if you recall. Was someone able to discover the rune/pattern combination to open the portal from our end? Or, mayhap, it was opened from the other end, from the Plane of Air. Could something have slipped through the portal to claim Alaric's body and possibly transport Alaric's true spirit/soul to the other plane?" It feels as though Ariarh is stabbing in the dark with her various theories and assumptions, but she is trying to connect the series of events as have been told to her from various sources.
Ariarh is thoughtfully considering Anuk-Su's plan and weighing each side of the argument, for and against.
"To overturn a leader is a monumental decision and one not to be entered into lightly. I can put forward your idea to the Council but alone I am unable to make such an important decision, Milady. You are aware of this. Also, your safety is of importance to all in the Council. I am uncertain they would entertain the idea of you being used in such a fashion to trap our ruler. But, I shall speak with them, I promise."
***
A little later in the chamber, Ariarh picks up the package from home and slowly, calmly approaches the silver wyrmling, "Anuk-su, I have received this package from my parents in Artume and Brett assures me he cannot find any traps. Can you determine if it is completely safe to open? If there is any stronger, hidden magic that we will not be able to pick up."
"Of course it is a portal - a portal to the plane of Air - we know this already - Lord Winter opened the portal a day or so after thou left here - with my help, naturally," Anuk-su adds the last somewhat casually.
You can see she is now less afraid - the time for action is on her - she is young, beset with stress and fear, but with the chance of forming a plan her fear is evaporating and being replaced by the hungry desire to do something.
"Indeed - he opened the portal - it was truly a magnificent sight. I offered to venture in, yet he would not permit me. Beyond the gate to the portal we could see many fair things - and some less fair - but it was indeed an amazing thing to witness! As thy may have recalled, I did sleep on the rug - for it was... to mine eyes - it was fair to see, magic or nay - and Alaric permitted me - provided I gave my word to use the rug's magic - for it is quite harmless if the pattern is not awakened... Meanwhile - he did not mind... Until three days ago when the madness took him, and he stole the rug from me," she added with a fierce growl.
"The rug is not evil - Sylvath looked on for that - it is merely a gateway - portable and easily transported - but, evil? Nay - I believe he took it from me simply to... simply because he knows it shall hurt me..."
"Do you think the doorway could have allowed difficulties with him? Perhaps... though I do not think so - I think there is something out of the ordinary, aye! But I think it is more closely attached to him then the simple rug!"
"A package from thy parents? Truly - well then, open it! Oh - magic..."
She glances at it for a moment, her violet eyes seeming to glow with eager anticipation.
"Oh, there are many layers of magic here - many aura's I can see - but faint - very, very faint - enchantment is the most prevalent, of course, but what of it? It is from thy parents; they would not harm their own daughter - open it!" she adds with an eager wave of her hand, looking now intently at the package.
Arairh - you cannot be sure if her determination comes from an honest belief that there is no harm in the package - or... if she does not know if there is anything wrong with it and is too proud to admit that - or... if she is a little girl who wants to see a present opened, even if the present is not from her own parents, because her own parents are dead and she would like to see a present - or... all of these or none of these.
But you are sure of ONE thing - she is eager to see the package opened!
Do you open it then, or not? Please let me know. Thanks!
Ariarh is still unsure so advises Anuk-Su and the Lady Turon to move a safe distance from her and the package. It was better to be safe than sorry. She calls out to Dior and asks him to move a distance from the door so he too can be out of range if there is something amiss with the package.
Ry undoes the string and lifts the brown paper packaging, eager to see the contents within. It has been too long since she heard word from her parents.
She opens the box.
Ry - due to the magnitude of what is about to happen I don't have the ability to post it on the board.
Please check your email for further information...
Well gang - as Ariarh has decided to open the package from her "parents" - well... let's just say that, for now, I'll need to see some posting from other people for a bit.
Ariarh - let's just say that I don't think you're dead - but, for now - we'll just say "Sweet Dreams"!
Oh well, it could have been worse :)
So - to sum up
Shaezon and Arasmes are still in the council chamber.
Brett invited Kae to help check out the town - and encouraged Shaezon and Aarasmes to come, too - and check things out if they want.
Ariarh is alone in a room somewhere with Anuk-su and Lady Turon and opened a mysterious package - and is dealing with that - and what happened.
And (though you don't know it formally)
Alaric figured out how to open the portal and is now sleeping on it - even as he stares up the ceiling with lifeless eyes.
Oh yeah, Brett locked the door to Alaric's chambers when he went out.... so, just so you know, and took the key. Now, no one can get in, or out, of Alaric's room. And of course, Brett naturally posted a guard on the room with strict orders to make sure the door doesn't open - Lord Winter needs his sleep.
Well - that's it for me - I need to go get some sleep.
Shazon will join Brett checking out the town.
Arasmes will go with Brett as well. He is most interested in the town and its people. Before he goes he covers back up, putting his wrappings in place and once more wearing the goggles.
Kae goes with brett, suggests that we could split up. Kae offers to take Arasmes with him. First of all, he wants to get a full report from Sylvath on what happened with the fire as well as the wall with guards. Also wants to have sylvath do his detect alignment thing on arasmis, give him the All-clear.
if everyone wants to stick together, totally cool too, so in that case he'd like to see sylvath, then maybe head to the laundry or DeVille's. If anyone has any preference... but that sort of depends on what the deal with the fire is.
Brett is not going into town quite yet – for now he has traveled down to the tavern on the first floor of the fortress and has – as he said – purchased a pint and is drinking it, holding a bundle of letters in his hand – reading through them and smoking a pipe.
Seeing you walk up to him, he glances your way absently, then shrugs as you approach him and gestures for you to sit down by him.
”Well lads – seems that ye got here at a particular time – it ain’t too pretty, eh?” he said, pulling on his pipe.
”But it ain’t too sour, neither,” he says, with a nod to himself.
”Well – as ye be looking fer a place to set up shop – reckon I ought to give ye the “rundown” on a few details before you figure on what ye want to do.”
He continues to scan the letters for a while.
”I be a blunt lad normal like – “Speak truth or be silent” be a good motto, as I always says… But anyhow – here be the blunt facts. Before we done left there be some trouble in this berg – I mention it now as it may give ye all clues on where ye want to live – that be all,” he says, taking another sip, and signaling a server to give you drinks or food – if you want any.
”First things first – before we done left I be true worried about rum luck in money department – didn’t think we got much coin – but as I’m looking o’er this set o’ notes, I see that ain’t be as true as I done thought,” Brett adds.
”Seems that before Alaric lad done took ill he tossed in some nice plans, as it were…”
”Firstly – he put in a tax on folk. Now, before we left we done got roughly 3,600 people in this town. Now – of that 3,600 people – we got roughly 1,200 families. Average bread owner – as it were – be earning eight gold pieces a week – and the second earner can be expecting to earn about half that – so, about twelve gold pieces a week – roughly 36 gold pieces a month. Alaric be setting tax on that a little over ten percent – for about 4 gold pieces a family – fer the whole month – or, if it’ll matter much to ye – 4,800 gold fer this months taxes!”
Brett sips a taste of his pint and goes on.
”It ain’t be stopping there though – nay – he done decided to make some business concessions. Firstly, that lad DeVille – he done “sold” him a “business license” fer his gaming house and doxies – as it reads. DeVille owns it, runs it, and handles it on his own – we don’t get to use it on down the road fer our purposes, more’s the pity, as it could be nice fer us in the future – but Alaric done demanded the following – and get this… DeVille pays a flat rate of 20,000 gold pieces for a lifetime gaming commission within city limits, and an annual tax, nay monthly but annual – of 10 Percent of the House Take. This be on the provision that all his doxies be checked on a monthly basis fer sign o’ disease, pregnancy or abuse, as it were – and that he runs a clean establishment – I reckon that mean nothing illegal that we know about,” Brett adds somewhat wryly.
”Next, it be seeming that the big move be on business and supply,” Brett adds somewhat contemplatively.
”See – the lad at Grishnak – I reckon on him being a black-marketer – there be issue with him getting into trouble with some locals – can’t tell from this who be true at fault – but his part o’ town got burned up, and be under “investigation”, as it were. Meanwhile, Grishnak and his folk be forced to pull up stakes and move a little out of the tow proper, set up off of city limits but within about one hundred yards o’ the city. Reckon that if ye want something more “active” ye head a bit west o’ the city – east o’ the city – clean near the river be more “well-to-do” folks. Me, I’m a middle ground kind o’ lad – near the bathouse and Casino. East be a little too hoity-toity – they make me welcome of Arasmes look downright… congenial? West be pretty rough – thugs and brawlers and such… look like pick-pockets and that type. Rough part o’ town, but it least it be away a bit from civilized folk,” Brett muses.
”Well – bad as the fire be – Alaric done be using it as a master stroke – not only did he move the rougher lads from the neighborhood – but he also decided to get in motion – by end o’ month – rebuilding that part o’ town. Seems he got a lot o’ lads put to work – hence the good taxes, I reckon. We now’s got roughly…” Brett lets out a low whistle ”Hmm… roughly 24,000 gold in raw building supplies – ready to go at the drop o’ a hat! Not bad, eh? Well… never ye mind – it be damn right great!” he adds sipping another taste of the pint.
Not bad, eh, Kae - with that kind o' loot we can start building something fine - a real weapon smith, maybe - to make ye plenty o' master work weapons to buy fer hardly nothing - that sounds alright with me, how about ye?" he adds, looking at Kae.
Watching Kae's reaction a moment, Brett looks down on the paper and keeps reading, his eyebrows raising suddenly.
”Huh! Seems as Alaric done be remembering things fair – he done passed out some sort of charter o’ his own – I done almost forgetted it – it be papers to sign on folk as “deputies” – sort of independent types – like bounty hunters, as it were. They be to scout the borders, hunting down bandits, or any other enemy type – evil beasts and such… A lad need to sign fer such a grant – looks like 200 gold pieces a paper – but, if the lad sign, he got legal license to hunt down villains on our land, under our charter “Deputy Papers” and such – and can bring ‘em back fer bounty! Seems the bounty be modest fair… But he sold such papers to 32 lads and lasses to beat the lands about – search for villains, and if they find ‘em – come back fer bounty! Huh – that’ll take ‘em months to each earn the 200 back, unless they get lucky, but if they find any soon – then they earn their bread quick. But I reckon it give us at least a month or so of breathing room before they start coming back – until that time – we done got more cash in the vault! That not be too bad…” Brett adds the last with a nod.
”Anyhow – once he gets fixed in the head – I be reckoning he can get working on putting hash in motion – setting stuff up, as it were,” Brett adds thoughtfully.
”It may be changing the layout o’ the town a bit – but I doubt it – ye lads looking fer a place to stay, let me know what ye like,” he adds.
Glancing up at you both, he stares again and Arasmes, pinches his nose between his thumb and forefinger.
”Ye know… I be blunt, as were said, dune man – so let me spill me beef with ye, as it were; we’ll clean it up, then move on fresh. I got lot’s on me mind and no time fer hash.”
”I be lived in Cheliax as a lad, did ye know that? Nay – well, anyhow – there be a few things down that ways a piece. Firstly – they done got lots of them that worship devils and demons and such – yer kind be walking free and clear… Mostly bad types, mostly kill ye fast as look at ye, but not all, not all… I met a few goodin’s, though rare few, to be sure…” Brett adds the last to himself, as if thinking.
”So’s I got a sense o’ what ye were when I saw ye – or least… call it a hunch? Anyhow, I didn’t care, lots o’ folk disguise themselves right proper, what do that be to me?”
”But then, I never done tell ye what me folk did – me clan – cousins, nieces, nephews, the whole crew… We done be in disguise too – traveled around a lot – like a circus o’ freaks – because that’s what Halflings really are to ye big folk, at least – that’s what got hammered into us – we be Little Folk – to get out o’ the way or be stepped on. So we be smart, tricksy, as it were – we done slipped on the disguise o’ being in carnival to go from town to put on shows. But ye know what we be doing main? Not making coin hustling – though we done that – nor selling good food at too much value fer what it be worth – nor running scams at shows to bilk folk out of their bread for the chance to see one o’ us get hurt in a silly trick – nay… that just be our bloody day job, see?”
Brett leans back, regarding you both, giving a wink to Mister as he looks up at him.
”We be doing the real work – see… we done be risking our lives to bust up slavers. We’d come into town – be looked on as fools, bums, lay-abouts, yokels, scallywags and the like. But when night comed we done slip into the streets and free slaves, and kill slavers – risked our life to help little folk who can’t be helping themself’s proper. I lost good kin and mates busting out Big Folk who were too stupid and useless to keep themselves getting slaved – lost a lot o’ good mates and kin, I tell ye – but it don’t be stopping us from doing that, because it be like me boss – Shelby Cottonmill – he done tell me all the time “Brett lad – nay folk should live in chains” – he said.”
He sips another taste of the pint, looking at Arasmes hard.
”I be done beaten, lashed, spit on and mocked fer being what I be – “half-sized” – “half-man” – and other things less pretty. But it don’t be stopping me from doing what I do – that be risking meself to help others live. Which I done… even to help the old lad Delain – he got pinched once himself, and I be there to help bust him out…”
”See lad,” Brett says looking at Arasmes hard ”I don’t be liking slavers – not at all… more then most… but I be also saying that the gods help them that help themselves… ye busted out! Good fer ye – but it rankled me ye sat in chains fer a bloody ten years before ye made it.”
”Well – that be my thinking. Like I said – I didn’t care ye be Tiefling as much as I said to meself “Brett old lad – this one… how long he be staying chained if he don’t get someone to help bust him out… eh?”
”Well – maybe that be a unfair thought on ye – being as I just met ye and don’t know ye – but it be why I rankled on ye. I got no particular so much on race as I do on action – ye call up mates to help ye fight with magic? That ye needed mates to bust out o’ chains? That ye need mates to back ye? Lad – we all need help from friends, from time to time… but I like a lad who can stand on his own two feet without magic and so on, if ye understand me,” Brett adds, drinking another sip.
He looks hard at Arasmes.
”So – there it is – laid out me cards plain as plain can be. Ye can decide what ye want to do with yer move, then – but think ye on this: I admit, I don’t know ye much – maybe my words be unfair… Hell, maybe they be making me seem like a right basterd – I’ll give ye that, if ye want. But, I be wiling to put ‘em aside, admit I be wrong, and start fresh with ye on me line o’ thinking – provided ye want me, too, eh?”
Brett puts out his hand boldly to Arasmes.
”So, lad – ye know how I felt – but I don’t feel that way now. Now I reckon ye be like any other lad – we start now square, true, and straight. If ye want it… If so, ye let me know now and we shake on it and move on fair and true – even as mates. If not, say the word, I’ll put down me hand,” Brett adds, watching Arasmes.
Tax and collections from Olegs 2,400 – and 20!
Total Cash in Vault before collections: 4,000 GP.
Total Accumulated Gold in Treasury at the end of this month: 41,000... and 20... GP
Everything else in “Raw Treasure”.
Final note to Council – for every “square” on your map you build on – you will get an additional 250 citizens – roughly – the more citizens you have, the more you can tax. Also – if your citizens have better things to work with (For example: Shrines, Artisans, Craftsmen) – not only do you get the benefit of their ability to create (Shrines can create healing potions to sell you – Weapon Smiths can Craft you masterwork weapons, and so forth) but more expensive “type” of people generate better personal revenue – and; and therefore a higher personal tax. So – you can use the gold as you want – to begin to craft stuff, or invest it back into your town. The bigger your town gets, the faster your citizens craft things for you at a cut rate – so you can go out and adventure, then return and pick up your stuff.
Arairh, even as you examine the contents of your package, you hear a discreet knock on the door to Anuk-su’s room. You are startled a moment, but Anuk-su reassures you not to worry – if there were truly a villain, they would not bother knocking. Anuk-su then boldly moves to open the door and you are surprised to see standing there Delain.
He bows before you once.
”Greetings, ladies,” he says cordially.
”Master Brett – he has asked me to seek you out personally and inform you of a brief bit of news – I hope it is promising, though I do not know.”
At this point Delain quickly informs the women of the same notes that Brett has given the others downstairs – first letting them know what Alaric did with the gold – and the two who left on their journey – then letting them know what Alaric did to restock the treasury.
”If it pleases you – Master Brett asked me to assist you in what services you may need me for – I can help you as best as I may – though, in fairness, I should ask that there some consideration for time to examine the possibility of formally discussing the potential of an alliance between our houses,” he adds the last, though his eyes are now resting mainly on Ariarh.
Naturally – this makes sense – as she is the formal political figure among the three. Yet, his gaze suggests that he is looking at her for more reasons then a simple political meeting.
”Lady – if you’ll permit me – the Sir Dashan and his colleague are below. They would have us all meet and discuss actions to the southlands. Your other companions have traveled to the township to the north – Brett says once he shows them around to meet at six o’clock at the home of the Banks. He also adds to bring Anuk-su – suggesting that she is formally under the charge of the Council – not Lord Winter singularly – and whatever she may consider her duty now, that must fail under her first responsibility – she is now a ward of the State – not a person. She is no man’s slave – and Brett feels it best if she did not linger here – especially after… pardon me for saying so “Alaric’s bloody ill-mannered lingo”,” Delain smiles awkwardly at this.
”Your pardon, ladies, yet it was his words – and I did promise to deliver the message in tact.”
Looking at you all, he cocks his head.
”Shall we adjourn, then?” he asks.
”If I am a true “ward of the State” then my promise to Alaric is not as binding as that command. I must put my primary duty first,” Anuk-su says ”Yet, before we go, let me take this,” she adds, and grabs he journal with the notes in it – specifically the notes that had the pictures of the rug… among other thoughts, no doubt.
Turning, Anuk-su looks at Lady Turon and Aiarh…
”Well? What are we waiting for?” she says, somewhat impatiently even as she moves for the door, hoping you’ll follow.
At another time you may have chastised her for her imperious demands – but given all she has gone through – you believe you can forgive her for wanting to get out as quick as she can when given the chance.
Ariarh, happy in the letter and gift received from back home, turns to see Delain Esserian enter and is instantly relieved by his presence.
"Lord Esserian, 'tis good to see you, and your entrance is well timed, if I may say so." Ry carefully places the music box back in the packing box, closes the lid and lifts the box in her arms. "I believe moving Lady Anuk-su to the Banks' home is a wise decision. And, she is most certainly a ward of the State." Ry nods and bestows a smile toward the little dragon-girl.
With Anuk-su leading the exit and courteously waiting on Lady Turon to move out of the room, Ariarh follows in the back and collects Dior on her way out of the tower chamber. She makes a mental note to speak to Anuk-su later about the contents of her journal. From what she spied over the girl's shoulder regarding the sketches of the rug, it seemed important to ask about.
"My apologies but I will need to make a quick visit to my bedchamber to secure my package as it will be burdensome if I am to carry it about with me all over town."
After concealing her special gift 'neath her bed, she closes and locks the door to her bedchamber and joins the others to make her way to Sir Dashan in the meeting chamber below.
Nearing the little girl, "Anuk-Su, I will have to presently attend to Sir Dashan and his men. Will you be joining me or would you care to do something else whilst I attend to official Council business? I will not be long, in either case." Gazing upon Sylvianya Turon and Delain Esserian, she asks them if they will be joining her in the meeting or retiring elsewhere until she is done. She hopes they will all join her, but will not impose on any person.
”Naturally I shall be joining thee,” Anuk-su responds, in her usual imperious tone. You sense, though, she does not mean to be arrogant – but rather, it is simply the way she has been raised. If you decide to teach her otherwise, you will have a hard grain to go against, and though subtle guiding could work – it will likely take you time to see real fruits.
”Further – if thou art comfortable in staying here – so be it! But, if I may be permitted an opinion on the matter – as I am now a ward of the State – it seems mete if thou would make thy bedchamber with mine own – for it seems as if thou has the responsibility to govern me,” she adds with a wave of her hand.
This strikes you as curious – it is almost as if Anuk-su is ordering you to stay with her, sharing her bedroom in the night for some reason – to watch over her. This is, in itself, not too odd, but the fact that she requested, that she asked permission to offer her opinion. She never does such things – merely states her opinion as if it is fact and moves on. To ask permission… this implies she is trying to get you to agree – as if she wants you to agree and senses you may not – but she actually hopes that isn’t the case.
All of this then suggests she really wants to be with you, especially when she sleeps, but is afraid you’ll say “no”. Of course, this is preposterous - Anuk-su fears nothing! Rather, it is quite likely this request is simply because she prefers some company while sleeping... Though she has not made it clear why... naturally it cannot be because of fear!
”As for that package being burdensome? Flimshaw, I say! I shall order a manservant to carry it down to the town itself – or, if thou would rather – we can gather some other gear from thy quarters, pack it properly, and leave this place forthwith! It seems best, I should say… that is, if you are not deciding to stay here – yet I suspect that if thy do remain – then thy shall be displeased in the evening. That is when… that is when the fits and madness come strongest in the nighttime,” she adds the last flatly.
”But in either case, I shall attend – I have all that I need… For other then my trophies, I have nothing in this room of true value,” she adds.
Looking at the young girl, and realising she is asking to remain in her company, propels Ariarh to accept Anuk-su's suggestion of sharing a bedchamber. "My lady Anuk-su I would be honoured to share a chamber with you and undertake the role of guardian until Alaric is healed of this disturbing affliction."
Anuk-su made much sense in regard to not remaining overnight within the fortress walls. And having already placed her special gift in her bedchamber, Ariarh excuses herself once again and rushes back to the room. She takes the gift from under the bed and packing some clothes and various essentials in her backpack, collects her gear and hurries back to the three of them waiting patiently in the corridor for her. She has an apologetic look on her face at having them wait on her yet again. Delain must think I'm addle-brained with all this to and fro, Ariarh sighs internally, her hands full with the box and other items. She gives him a shy smile.
Addressing Anuk-su, "Perhaps one of your...people would be kind enough to take care of my possessions? Mayhap take them down to the Banks and ask them to stow them away until we arrive this evening?" Ry was still not used to having other people do things for her and she felt bad commanding them to undertake a menial task but the little dragon-girl seemed quite comfortable in the undertaking.
"Now, let us see to Sir Dashan. I have kept him waiting long enough." Ariarh takes the lead this time and makes swift pace to the Council chamber.
"The honor is mine," Anuk-su answers abruptly, almost as if the phrase was spoken by rote.
"However - thou should find it refreshing to have me as a companion while sleeping - I am quite an excellent person to share a room with - as thou will no doubt discover."
"Meanwhile - I shall summon a manservant forthwith - he shall then pack some goodly beasts with thy gear, await our pleasure in the stables, and - when thou art ready - we shall then sally forth and ride thus to the House Banks!" she adds coolly.
Seeing a person working in the stables, she instructs him promptly, briefly, directly - though courteously - and tells him to see it to "Quick smart!"
He obeys, though with a strange look of shock, and hurries along to get things ready.
Anuk-su informs you that she will take care of the cost out of her own pocket - and not to worry on such "trivium" as payment.
"Now - thou art right. Let us then find this Sir Dashan - and let us go hence to hear what he shall tell us. Moreover, he is comely enough, for a human - therefore, if he speaks well, perhaps I shall favor him with a token of sorts - perhaps a scarf? Blast! Who is to say what is in proper style for such things in this time period... Of course, lest thou think me too forward, be assured this token shall only come to him provided of course, he does not displease us with some vain uttering," she adds, then gives you a knowing nod.
"Indeed - having such a protector is a fine thing - if he is honorable and true - and he seems as such. Though, of course - that is only my opinion. Though, of course... hmm.... tell me truly, lady - what is thy opinion on the matter? I am curious... for, shall we say... a secondary opinion is all; if thou has one... what is it?" she asks, her tone the most polite you've ever heard.
In all your life you are sure you've never heard the "crush" of a young girl for an older man put so... articulately? Yes - articulately; that is definitely the word.
What did she mean "an excellent person to share a room with as thou will no doubt discover". This should be most interesting, indeed. Least I know she will be safe with me.
What? The young girl had developed an attachment to the paladin from Ustalav. [Sigh] Oh, Great Mother and Great Father guide me in this. Sir Kyle Dashan was one and twenty and closer to Ariarh's age than Anuk-Su's. Yet, the silver dragon was older than her human appearance would suggest. Still, she was a child and he a grown man. How am I to advise her when I cannot engage love longer than a moment.
Ariarh started to open her mouth to speak but changed her mind and closed it quickly. She breathed in deeply and crouching before the young girl, she begins, "Milady, if thy seek a protector I can see no harm in retaining the services of one you trust. And if that person is Sir Kyle Dashan, and he is willing to be engaged in the service, then you have my support. From what I have seen of the man he seems rather seriously committed to his holy cause but then again I have only shared a handful of words with the knight. If you possess a care in your heart for this man, I would guide you and say, there is a time for all things, and if it is a true affection then it shall never wane." Ariarh did not want to sound as if she were mocking the child for she was not. She was concerned that one so young was thinking of a man in such a way. If it were merely a brief, child-like regard then she did not want to be stern and admonish Anuk-su for such mature thoughts. Yet the Seti was older than all of them and knew her mind. Ah, to be a mother, and know the right words to say. Mother, I wish you were here to advise me in this. I miss you.
Ariarh stands and bows her head, gently smiling at the little dragon-girl. "Let us go and meet with Sir Dashan." It is strange (but not unwelcome) how we go from being displeased with one another to this--new understanding.
Arasmes looks at Brett back during his exposition on the reasons why he responded the way he did. He could not fault him for his views anymore than he could fault anyone else for theirs. Arasmes takes the hand offered him and shakes it firmly saying I cannot hold with some of your views in terms of doing things one way over another. Using magic, not using magic and the like but I appreciate your forthrightness and candor so I will return it in kind. You said you could not understand how someone could be kept in chains for 10 years on their own volition? For the first I was loathe to abandon a friend that I had made while there. In addition, I was not kept as a typical slave, I was kept at a higher standard due to my talents and as such was watched even more closely than a basic slave would be. As such I had to make sure that my attempt was a successful one. My master was not kind to those he caught trying to escape and I feared I would not survive if caught and so I waited. The final moment came when my friend was killed in front of me as a punishment for a deal that had gone badly. Though it was no fault of my own, an example needed to be made. I could not be hurt, I was too valuable, but my friendship with Salim was well known and he suffered as a result. The pain of that night allowed me to call Caliphana to help in my escape. He looks at Brett again before saying As for calling for help, I do not see any difference between using a gun as you do and using magic as I do. You have been blessed with gifts of marksmanship and have learned the ability to use such weapons to your advantage. I have been blessed with magical abilities. We play with the toys the gods give us and I do not see either as superior to the other. It is not what gifts a person has that is important, but what they choose to do with them. If someone offered you a better gun or a magical sword I doubt you would say to them, "No thank you I'll stick with my inferior weapon because I like to stand on my own two feet." You use what blessings you can in this world otherwise you do not last long in it. Caliphana and magic are a part of who I am. I could no more separate them from myself permanently as you could separate your arm from your body. I can tell you though that I have every bit as much reason to hate slavers as you do. I am currently still considered a slave in Katapesh and would be remanded back to my former master's custody should I ever go back. That is why I sought out this land. I was made a slave because I was a tiefling and the magical powers of the devil blooded are well known. I will never go back to that life and will not allow any to do so either while it is within my power to prevent it. Arasmes finishes with a firm nod as if to accentuate the point. The conviction and power in his voice comes across while he is speaking, making it hard not to listen. You get the impression he may be an even better speaker than Alaric is.
Several, in fact - what map, specifically, are you referring to - or need? Let me know, I can send you one as needed.
Arasmes looks at Brett back during his exposition on the reasons why he responded the way he did. He could not fault him for his views anymore than he could fault anyone else for theirs. Arasmes takes the hand offered him and shakes it firmly saying I cannot hold with some of your views in terms of doing things one way over another. Using magic, not using magic and the like but I appreciate your forthrightness and candor so I will return it in kind. You said you could not understand how someone could be kept in chains for 10 years on their own volition? For the first I was loathe to abandon a friend that I had made while there. In addition, I was not kept as a typical slave, I was kept at a higher standard due to my talents and as such was watched even more closely than a basic slave would be. As such I had to make sure that my attempt was a successful one. My master was not kind to those he caught trying to escape and I feared I would not survive if caught and so I waited. The final moment came when my friend was killed in front of me as a punishment for a deal that had gone badly. Though it was no fault of my own, an example needed to be made. I could not be hurt, I was too valuable, but my friendship with Salim was well known and he suffered as a result. The pain of that night allowed me to call Caliphana to help in my escape. He looks at Brett again before saying As for calling for help, I do not see any difference between using a gun as you do and using magic as I do. You have been blessed with gifts of marksmanship and have learned the ability to use such weapons to your advantage. I have been blessed with magical abilities. We play with the toys the gods give us and I do not see either as superior to the other. It is not what gifts a person has that is important, but what they choose to do with them. If someone offered you a better gun or a magical sword I doubt you would say to them, "No thank you I'll stick with my inferior weapon because I like to stand on my own two feet." You use what...
Brett rolls his eyes a bit, at Arasmes's comments about magic.
"Lad - ye mistaked me there. I knowed plenty o' spellslingers, that ain't be the trick o' it. But the one's I agree with are the front liners - the lads who go out toe-to-toe with them that do wrong. Not hanging back-like and calling up mates to do the fighting fer them. Look at our lass Ariarh - she casts spells fair and true, but when battle came, where she be? Out in front lines hacking it out with trolls and ogres and such... Got shot up and hurt even while bringing sword to sword. She got power, and got magic - but in a tight spot that kind o' courage be better fer me then standing in the rear calling up others to fight fer ye."
He shrugs a bit.
"I mean - that is what ye do? Call up them to fight fer ye - and ye tell yer magical folk where to go and what to do? Ye tell them to "come" - they come. Ye tell them to "fight" - they fight... I mean, I guess I'm just trying to say I like a lad who'd be in the thick o' things, guarding my flank - rather then hanging back and getting other to it - magic or nay, that be all. I don't care if ye're back-to-back with me and ye got a spell, sword, or bullet - at the end o' the day, being in the thick o' things be my style, that be all."
"Anyhow - that be all I wanted to say on that... Nay disrespect, just wanted to clear the air. I got nay truck with spellslingers - nay sir! But, as I weren't clear on it - I reckoned on explaining it better. Now that we know - well, nay worries! Meanwhile - we'll move on, then. Hell, who knows... In days to come maybe I be all turned 'round about yer style," Brett adds to Arasmes.
He quaffs his drink and slams the mug down, looking up at you all.
"Alright - now, the next thing we need be doing is getting things explored in town - by that I mean that ye two want a house, eh? Well - let's get ye a house, then," Brett adds, looking at the two of you - Arasmes and Shaezon.
"Thing is - where ye be wanting a house? By the river, middle o' town - or out to the side o' town where there be more... shady types?"
"Let me know, and we can maybe pick up something. Seems ol' Alaric be planning on making new building and such here and rustling up some folk and new houses. Lot's o' opportunities to expand and grow... Be a good time to buy land - if ye have the cash - though fer now ye just be leasing it - but who knows, in a month or so, ye may got more cash and put things down proper."
"We be heading to town - what do ye want to do, and where do ye want to go? Just let me know..."
Ka'etil listens to Brett and Arasmes's exchange, nodding, nad finding himself impressed with the Tiefling's eloquence. I do hope we can find a role for this man that takes full advantage of his silvered tongue. Then he returns to what is his business.
"Thank you fo the report Brett. I would like further information regarding this fire and the trouble that Grishnak and his crew got into with the towns folk. I'll also be wanting a further assessment of what's been going on in town and about regarding crime and so forth. Then is the issue of the Wall, and i want to know those details as well as look into what has been going on with our neighbors in the swamp. I'd like to address that threat sooner rather than later, in all honesty."
Perhaps within the next couple months I'd like to have a proper Garrison to manage the protection of the village as well as provide on office for the Bounty-Hunting that Alaric has instituted, make sure we have a hand in the management of such hunting.
Several, in fact - what map, specifically, are you referring to - or need? Let me know, I can send you one as needed.
Several, in fact - what map, specifically, are you referring to - or need? Let me know, I can send you one as needed.
Sadly, no. The overview of Saravale was left up to the players to come up with - part of the "Fun" I thought would be that you guys can take what is existing and sort of make your own map. Logan, for example, made an excellent map of the "Fortress" - and I can email you that.
Here's the thing, though.
You have two "maps" of any city or district.
The first map is the one that is "by the book" - the map you must create which conforms to the book's needs for game balance and rule mechanics.
The second map is when you can take the mundane and give it "flavor" - much like the map I created for Oleg's village. I used all the rules for his village - all the things he has in his village (shop, stable, guard tower, shrine, tavern, houses) and made - what I thought - was a neat and creative map.
- It should be noted that the map of the Capital is much more complex (in time) because it is much more detailed. But you don't "Formally" need a "creative" map of the city, unless your city is attacked. I glanced through the things, and without giving much away - formally there is no "mass combat" on your capital city for at least two more books. So you're pretty safe on that account.
More on city stuff/maps to come on the discussion thread, though...