GM-Grenfax Curse of the Crimson Throne

Game Master Grenfax

A Dock Family eh? That explains the ego… wealthy tax collectors is more like it. At least he’s not Varisian. Probably a lot more to that story… I wonder how much of his current laments were his own doing? His demons as he puts it… another time perhaps.

Trisane continues fishing while he tells his tale to Alistair.

Well, unfortunately there’s not much to tell for my part as of yet. The worst of it you already know. You may have heard of the Imphawkes of East Shore though?

He looks over to Alistair for a moment to see if he’s paying attention.

No matter. My family’s lived in Korvosa for hundreds of years, great soldiers and marines, every last one. We weren’t always called Imphawkes though. We earned our nobility through combat. As I’m sure you know, every decade or so the imps get rowdy around here and try to cause a stir. Often times the pseudodragons are enough to put them down on their own but sometimes they need a little help. It was during one of these moments that my great, great grandfather, Commander Ursion, mounted his hippogriff, Whitehawke, and took to the air leading a handful of House Endrin’s elites to victory. The devils didn’t stand a chance that day let me tell you…

Trisane rests his pole on his knee staring off into clouds for a few moments, lost in his glorious daydream. Horses are all well and good but to sail the skies on a hippogriff… He then looks back to Alistair.

Sadly, Ursion was killed during the battle by the little beasts but his glory lives on. Devil blood painted the rooftops for weeks and the imps didn’t rise again for at least a generation. House Endrin granted my family the title and holdings in East Shore we have today. Ever since, we’ve all been marines in the Sable Company. It is my duty and my honor to follow in their footsteps, protecting Korvosa from whatever ails her.

He reaches into his sack and pulls out a small pouch, tossing it over to Alistair.
1 dose of Silver Weapon Blanch.

Here’s a little something from my family to yours, Lord Wellington. Put that on one of your blades with a lick of heat. If you ever run into any imps, you stick em where the sun don’t shine.

Trisane nods at Alistair then continues to fish in silence.

Nik does his best to not react to the stench of the place, though he suspects his reaction may be unavoidable.

I will have to see what I can find around town to help hold in our sick when we enter. This smells worse than the time young Evelyn decided to share her chocolate with the dogs.

Pardon me boys, which one of you is Yargrin? I was looking to make a deal for my catch and the boy outside told me to inquire here.

Trisane and Alistair - give me a Knowledge Nobility check to see what you two know about each other's families.

knowledge:nobility: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (12) + 1 = 13

Trisane and Alistair - give me a Knowledge Nobility check to see what you two know about each other's families.

I mixed it into my previous post.

No ranks in Knowledge Nobility so whatever seems most appropriate.
Knowledge Local: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (18) + 4 = 22
Intelligence: 1d20 ⇒ 19 or DC 10 Knowledge (Nobility) untrained.

Let me know if you need more.

Nik
I am Yargrin. Fish to sell. What have you got? says a human male, with short cropped blond hair and an expression that made Nik think he had a mouthful of whatever the foul smelling slop was. He looks Nik up and down and points to a table by the entryway.

Well, lets 'ave a look.

Alistair

Trisane

Nik starts a little having not seen the man standing right there. He reaches out his hand in a friendly gesture.

Hey! Name's Nik my friend. Spent most of my life on the water's edge and well people said this is the place to sell a catch. I'm looking for more than just silver though. Looking to upgrade a little if I can. What say I trade you the catch for a little silver but you throw in a bucket of that lovely chum and a nice net so I can increase my haul next time. How's that sound for a deal?

Nik flashes his nicest smile.

Alistair takes the offered item. Looks at it for a second as if he is thinking about how to proceed.
Well I thank you kindly for this most wonderful Alchemist Blanch. I hope to not be dealing with those tiny devils in the future but I will sleep easier knowing that I do have a means to better deal with such a threat. He pats his belt pouches as he looks for something to exchange for this noble gesture. I am afraid that I am ill prepared for such a time honored tradition. I do not carry much on my person and therefore I do not have a suitable item to return such a noble gesture. If you will permit me the time needed to make arrangements. I would be honored if you would except a gift made by our finest craftsmen. Perhaps a Lama blanket for your Griffin. Maybe a new harness made of the finest Velashu Leathers...or If you should need it...maybe a custom saddle made to fit you to perfection. We are know for our horses but we have dealt with more than our fair share of officers of the Sable company that want something special for their mount.
Alistair looks at trisane for a second or two and then a smile comes to his face as he reaches down to his boot and removes the dagger that he has there.His gesture might be one of military tradition and not one to bolster political aspirations between two noble families.
or you could except this blade
Alistair removes a the dagger from his boot, flips it over and offers it to Trisane hilt first. This blade was made for me after my first year at the Academy. The blade is of normal make but with a horse head carved into the pommel of the weapon.

Just tryin to help. What an odd guy... A rich noble for sure. Some can be pretty weird from what I’ve heard.

Trisane shrugs and accepts the dagger with a small amount of visible confusion. He wraps it up in a cloth and puts it in his bag.

You sure you don’t want this? It is pretty nice as you say… Thanks I guess. I’ll keep it safe for ya or put it to good use. No need to be so formal here. I can tell you’re a bit out of your element on this mission. We are wearing rags on a fishing boat after all.

He chuckles softly.

Also, no need for such grand gifts either, I’ve never been much for fancy things. The Sable Company provides me what I need. It’s good to be prepared for the worst though and every little bit helps. Don't worry, If this reckoning with Lamm goes south, I’ll do my best to keep you all safe from harm so we can finally go home and rest easier.

Let’s see what else we can see out there…

Nik:

Amazingly, the expression on Yargrin's face becomes even more sour. He looks you up and down, leaving you standing with your hand outstretched.
Shields nets and chum.... That isn't a haul of Alikan Oyster or jigsaw shark fin you got there. 9 Hells, that one ain't even edible.

Yargrin shakes his head. 2 Pinch for the fish. And that is being generous. If you want the coin toss them over there, otherwise, haul elsewhere.

Yargin stares at you with a contemptuous look, waiting for your answer.

Nik realizes his years spent talking to his dogs and horses may have left him less than able to smooth talk normal people...

Thank the stag and butterfly that Rom didn't see and hear that.

Well, can't blame a man for trying. Thanks.

Nik tosses his catch to on the table and takes the offered coins. As he walks out he smiles at the kids and tries to see if there is anything he can tell about the place that may be useful in their plans for returning at night.

After a quick look around Nik heads back out and catches Ophelia's attention. He motions to follow him down the street. He also visualizes Rom perched on his shoulder, knowing the bird will get the message.

Rom glides down from the roof of the abandoned building beside the fishery, landing on Nik's shoulder. He looks at the two copper coins clutched in Nik's hand and shifts. His beak opens, and then closes.

Nik reaches up and scratches Rom under his wing.

Don't, just don't.

Uneori mă uit că ești deja în capul meu.

Ophelia catches up with Nik when he's out of sight of the fishery.

I hope he got something useful, maybe even a glimpse of Lamm!

Eagerly, she'll ask Nik, Was Lamm inside? She'll then compose herself and ask the rest of her questions, Anything useful on the inside?

I didn't see any of Lamm's enforcers outside, they must all be within the building, or elsewhere. You can bet all of those kids are his "Lamms", though.

What info would Ophelia know about the kids? If they attack the fishery would the kids be more apt to defend it or be grateful for being freed?

Rom to Nik:
Da, îmi place de locuri spatioase.

@Ophelia

Rom...Capul meu este bolnav.

Nik shakes his head as Ophelia joins him.

I learned a few things. Some helpful, others less so. First, his man Yargrin is a sour man, his expression and manners are that of a diseased hound. And I also saw many of these "Lamms" you speak of. There were at least a dozen I would say, assuming someone was working at the other end of the fish run I saw. There were two more doors that lead further into the place, one I assume leads down into the fishery proper, probably the one to the left of the door I entered. The other I cannot assume anything.

Nik smiles faintly and continues.

What else I learned is that I have spent far little time interacting with people instead of animals. The most talking I seem to do is with Rom, and his wit can sometimes turn my mood sour.

Nik motions across the river.

Let us head back and maybe join Trisane and Alistair for dinner. While we walk I am interested in hearing about your time spent with Lamm. What can we expect from him and those with him?

Looking at Trisane as he takes the offered gift.
WOW, this guys either has no understanding of etiquette or he is more of a knuckle dragger than I thought
Well maybe we will get a better look at the fishery in the afternoon.
Alistair continues to fish with no success at all...
maybe I should put some bait on the hook sometime soon......nah.

Yargrin sounds like one of Lamm's typical enforcers. Your assessment of him is typical of Lamm's associates. They're brutal thugs, and unquestioningly loyal to him.

Ophelia stops speaking for a moment, unsure of how to proceed. Her inner turmoil is clear on her face, then she sighs and continues, It isn't a time that I enjoy revisiting. Lamm is worse than the thugs he hires, much worse. I'd not be surprised if he was actually a demon in disguise. He usually has two enforcers with him, sometimes three. As I said, they are loyal brutes. I doubt we'd have any chance of persuading them to leave Lamm. The kids...they're probably terrified of Lamm and his enforcers. I don't think they'd get in our way, but I don't want to see them get hurt at all.

Lamm and every thug he has there needs to be eliminated. It's been awhile since I've been that close, seen that many kids. He needs to be stopped. Hopefully, the others have found some good information. Even though we agreed on two days, that seems too long. I'm sure I can convince the marine, maybe the others, that we should strike tomorrow.

Ophelia realizes she was lost in thought and looks to Nik, Sorry, just thinking. What was that you said, you don't spend much time with other people? Why's that?

Nik frowns slightly at the mention of kids getting hurt.

I can't imagine hurt those kids. I hope Trisane's anger and Alistair's general state won't be an issue there.

I never meant to cause you to relive the pain Ophelia, sorry. To answer you though, I spend most of my time on the road alone or with just Rom and Destin, my steed, for company. The clan relies on me to scout ahead. That along with my skill with rearing our canines in the clan, I tend to be more in touch with the animals. And I think that showed in my dealing with Yargrin. Though it may just be his sunny disposition.

Nik chuckles lightly trying to lighten the mood a little.

Also, in the last three years I have found my conscience heavy from a decision that has now lead me here. Lamm has poisoned my brother Tobar, imprisoned him with the drug known as shiver. I must find him and my other brother, Tre. Then I may return them to the clan. Three years has been hard on them I think.

Ophelia frowns at Nik. Three years? I'm sorry to hear that. I've seen what happens to those addicted. If they've been using shiver for that long, you can't just take them away. They'll need help to get over it. I may know someone that could help them...when we find them.

Three years is a long time. They've probably overdosed already. I doubt he'll find them alive. Hope is a powerful motivator, though.

Bes...Nik, unless the others have found something worrying, I think we shouldn't waste another day scouting. I didn't see anything on our side that another day of watching would help. Seems like our targets remain inside, and the more we pry and work our way in, the greater chance of getting caught or tipping them off. What do you think?

I think there's a better chance of convincing Alistair, if Besnik suggests we strike earlier.

I agree, delaying further won't provide much else, other than more chances to arouse suspicion.

Nik takes out a scrap of paper and writes a quick note on it.

Nik raises his hand to his shoulder and draws Rom down to look at him.

Ia- asta Trisane și Alistair . Acestea ar trebui să fie pe apă încă . Urmați-le să se întâlnească cu noi .

As Rom flies off Nik turns back to Ophelia.

I suggest we meet up for dinner as Alistair suggested. Though I suspect we should try and restrain his revelry a little.

Trisane and Alistair:
The afternoon proves slightly better for Trisane who manages to catch a couple fish. He also notes that his companion seems to be lacking bait, but as you drift up and down the Jeggare River you are able to determine that a child always seems to be stationed at one of the upper windows looking out over the river. They are not paying you any attention, but he or she is continually peeking, watching or hanging out the window.

Late in the afternoon a raven, you recognize the white wing patches as Rom lands on the bow of the boat and hops forward. Clutched in his beak is a note.

Rom then says something in Varisian as he sits atop the prow, serving as a living figurehead for the boat.

Rom will help himself to some of the bait. It looks delicious.

Vă rog să-mi spuneți dacă aveți obiecții eu ajutându-mi la prânz? Nu ?, de ce vă mulțumesc pentru masa de prânz prietenii mei!

Trisane stops what he’s doing and takes the note from the bird to read it out loud.
Oh hey, pretty sure this is Nik’s raven, Rom… “Dinner?” I guess the others are finished up and ready to eat. Looks like Rom is hungry too.

He retrieves a knife out of his gear and cuts the head off one of his smaller freshly caught fish tossing it over to Rom.
There ya go, little guy.

Trisane cleans off the knife on his clothing before putting it away and speaks to Alistair.
Are you ready to head back in yet? Seems the bird here found a good use for your share of the bait.

Maybe fishing’s just not his thing… I’ve had better days myself. I think it’s time to go.
He begins to pack up his caught fish and gear before he gets an answer.

Rom tears at the fish with his beak, then between bites looks to Trisane,

Vă mulțumim pentru partajarea, nu este nimic ca captura proaspătă a zilei, iar eu fac se bucură de o cină sashimi bun!
Dar nu ai nici o idee despre ceea ce spun eu fac tu ....

Whatever the Raven said, he returns to eating.

Alistair reels in his line and places his fishing pole down.
Dinner it is then. I am looking forward to getting back on land

It is quite the walk to get to East Shore, but there is a certain energy to the city that you all feel. Once to East Shore, you find the Emerald Lantern off Three Mast Street. It lacks the usual signage and is identifiable only by an oversize lantern that glows with a green light.

Inside is an odd mix of what you would assume to be Theumanexus students and young nobles, or at least scions of wealthy merchant families. Unlike the more widely known Shoreline Drinkhall, this tavern seems to lack the longshoremen, warehouse managers and othe dock workers; Korvosan Guardsmen, Shoanti and Varisians normally found there.

Arrival order will be posting order, and include a Perception check please.

Nik is freshened up slightly and appearing less threatening. He has left his crossbow at home, though he keeps his staff with him. He is wearing his scarves openly and brightly.

Alistair didn't mention anything about having a place reserved, so maybe we should find a seat and see what happens when he arrives. Maybe we can have a drink while we talk more.

Trisane arrives at the Emerald Lantern by carriage (Since it’s quite a long walk from Old Korvosa to East Shore). He is well groomed and garbed in his Sable Company dress uniform. He also wears a longsword at his side with several daggers on his belt (one of which has a horse head handle). As he enters he will greet the attendant to find out if there’s a table reserved for Lord Alistair Wellington and look around for his new friends or any other familiar faces.

Trisane

You enter the Emerald Lantern and inquire about a table reserved for Lord Alistair Wellington. The bartender gives you an odd look,

What do you want with ol' Alistair, Marine?

“ol’ Alistair” He must come in here a lot. Probably for the booze and fancy company. I'm sure he pays well. Better tread carefully.

Nothing of any great concern. My name's Trisane Imphawke, Sable Company. I'd just like to talk to him and we've arranged to meet here this evening for a discussion over some of Tau Grimsby's fine cuisine... Why do you ask? He's not causing any trouble is he?

Trisane looks over to the bartender intently waiting on a response with a slight grin.

Ophelia pales as she sees the clientele. I should have changed out of these rags.

A drink would be good. We seems to stand out among the crowd, not the best place for a meeting of these sorts.

Perception: 1d20 ⇒ 13

Alistair comes into the Emerald Lantern. He is dressed in black silk pants, a white silk shirt, and a black doublet with gold trim. Hanging around his waste sits his two rapiers and over all of this is his black traveling coat with gold trim. He is clean shaven with a goatee beard and his attire is impeccable. He greets the door man with a hand shake and a hug. You notice a coin or two in his hand as he shakes. Zig it is good to see you again..how it the little Natasha? When she is ready for her pony you know where to find me... The coins are gone from his hand. Alistair walks up to Trisane and the others. Good Marine, my lady, my lords it is good that you all could make it...let me take care of this and we can get started. He bows politely and walks over to the bartender...Conrad how are you tonight Alistair extend his hand in greetings with a warm hug and some laughter. It has been a long time coming but I feel the life coming back to me, tonight we celebrate. Looking back at the rest of the group and then back to Conrad well a small celebration...this is a business dinner after all He places several gold coins on the bar and pushes them towards Conrad That is for you and these are for your staff He places some more coins down on the bar. I would like a private table if you do not mind and would you be so kind as to start me a tab. Alistair motions for the rest of the group to follow him to a private table. As the group moves through the room you hear greetings being sent Alistair's way most are kind and well mannered but a few are rather rowdy in nature. There are a few times you hear condolences as well. He stops at few tables along the way exchanging greetings and such. He introduces you to a few people here and there but it is clear that he is just being polite and wants to get to his table soon. At one table...Master Cas'Adyne, your Cordovan is finished and is ready for you. I also made the arrangements to have it blessed. No need to thank me...anything for you. He continues until he reaches the private table. He motions for everyone to sit and he turns to talk to the server.
Good lady if you would please have chef tau set us up with whatever he desires, I know we will not be disappointed. If Conrad has it...some of Master Matais' Vargdricka...a small cask, a bottle of Chateau Pétrus merlot,hmm...or something that will pair well with the meal. He give her a slight bow and a kiss on the hand. He sits down and looks around at everyone. So let us discuss our findings shall we...

perception: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (1) + 4 = 5

Lord Wellington, I didn't realize you held such influence with the establishment. I'm looking forward to a delicious meal. Thank you.

Ugh. I really wish I had changed now, I stink of fish.

I hope you two had a profitable fishing excursion. Nik and I scouted the streets around the fishery. The guards don't patrol there, must be bribed to stay away. She'll watch Trisane for his reaction to this before continuing.

There's no presence outside that I could find, aside from the kids working. Nik can you fill you in on the details inside the building, but the outside looks like this... Ophelia will lay out her journal and pen and sketch the building.

Lady Ophelia, you honor me with such words, but alas my influence only extends as far as my purse is deep. chuckles lightly.. I know this and except it. I was lucky to be born to two loving parents of noble birth and of a wealth the many can only dream of. I enjoy the finer things in life and have seen many things. I take care of those that take care of me and then some. Conrad and his staff are good people and I care for all of them. They work hard just like others across the city and are struggling to make a living...so I do not mind dropping a few coins here and there to help them out. He looks across the room at the crowd
Everyone here has a story to tell...some good some bad. For the most part the people here are good people but like anywhere you go you will find some sour grapes.
He looks over at Trisane..
Would you do the honors of our report?

Nik folds his arms across his chest and frowns at Alistair.

Celebration should wait until we accomplish something, yet here among his peers Lord Beţiv is all smiles and gold. If we follow his lead we are doomed.

Trisane glares at Alistair and Ophelia for a moment, clearly unimpressed by Alistair’s behavior and Ophelia’s bribe accusation. He then speaks to the group.

Money can’t buy everyone.

“Our” Report, eh? All he did was hang around the boat, drowning his sorrows. A few gold sails and nice clothes can’t change the truth.

Let’s just say that the fish of the Jaggare have nothing to fear from the two of us. All I saw at that rundown fishery was a rotten boat, a few kids and a jigsaw: Nothing that’ll keep me from closing in on Lamm any longer. I was hoping Ophelia and Nik might have gotten some more useful information... As I expected though, nothing’s changed. I suggest we accelerate the plan. We go in after midnight: 0400 at pier 1. I have everything prepared.

Trisane sits back in his chair.

Enjoy yourselves tonight if you must.
I hope this isn’t our last meal…
I’ll join in the revelry once my nephew’s safe again.

I agree with Trisane about our time table...I think we have as much information as we can.....He stops in mid sentence...shakes his head back and forth ever so slowly and sighs...looking at the glares that are coming from the Nik and Trisane...You do not approve of my actions...Well let me explain a few things here for you two. he lowers his voice a bit and looks around to make sure we do not have unwanted company perception: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (7) + 4 = 11
We are about to commit several crimes tonight. Several crimes. Did I mention murder is on our agenda as well ....all in the name of justice and I am all for those crimes. The law on the other hand... Looking straight at Trisane The same law you swore an oath to uphold I might add is not as forgiving as I might be. So forgive me if I am trying to enjoy what might be my last night above ground. He sits back and looks around each of the others...he visibly calms Tonight is not about me getting into my cup. I can do that anytime I wish...Tonight is about celebrating our lives and....plausible deniability. We are here for all to see enjoying each others company and having a good time. When we leave here we can make it known that we are going to my families estate. That will give us an alibi if we should need one. I am known here as a good time and if I came in here with you guys looking all serious and glum it would stick out and draw attention to the fact that we are up to no good. He scratches his chin a bit...You have judged me on what you have known in the last day. That is a bad thing to do and it is my fault as well. So let me tell you more about myself. There is more to me than a good looking noble with money to spend and always looking for a good time. I am also a fighter, a sword fighter. I am always thinking three steps ahead of my opponent. Feints within feints within feints. I try to see what my enemies and allies are capable of and their abilities. I have led men and women into battles..nothing close to what the marines or the guards do....part of my training at the academy. I am good at it and I am good at seeing what my allies can and can not do. I do not judge you on what you are not. I am not better than anyone else. Yes I might have a title and lands, but that does not make me any better than the lovely creature that serves us our meal. I have my failings as well as anyone else out there. He stares off into the distance. I..do..not talk of it much but since we are going into a conflict together I guess I should tell you. I said that Lamm stole something from my family. That is true but that is not all of the story. He stole my sister from my family. He gutted her and left her to die in those streets. He took half of my sole, my twin, and I just buried her four days ago. I was lost and I am still a broken man. I am missing her...she was with me everyday of my life for the last 27 years. If we can succeed tonight I feel that I can start to heal my personal wounds. He looks down at the journal that Ophelia has made. Now if can cut out the sour faces and get down to business...Trisane you have the knowledge of warfare would you please go over what you feel is the best way to proceed. You have made arrangements...I would like to have everyone's input on this...

Nik uncrosses his arms and smiles lightly to Alistair. Speaking lightly and politely he addresses the nobleman across from him.

No, Lord Beţiv, I do not approve of any of this. I did not sign on to commit murder. I signed on to find what has happened to my brother, yet you seem intent on murdering the one who can provide me that information. So, no, I do not approve one bit.

For my part, you say you saw a jigsaw shark, I can see about handling that one. Animals and I tend to be on friendly terms, though I’ve never asked the spirits to befriend a shark before. The kids are a concern for me as well.

Nik looks deep into Alistair’s eyes as he continues.

As for you, My Lord, if you wish for my help in seeking justice, I suggest you remember that I am not one of your followers. You want my respect, earn it. Show me you are not some child I need to keep an eye one, or he will wander off and get himself hurt. I am here tonight because I am seeking redemption for the last person I exiled for such actions. If you think I will not take the same actions against a man I just met, think again.

Nik sits up, waiting for the rest to respond.

Alistair smile a very big smile indeed...I am very sorry my lord if you feel that you are my follower. I never intended for you or anyone to be my follower. I wish for us all to have a say in what we do and how we do it. I am not one to blindly follow someones orders just because they say so...and I suspect you are the same. That is why I ask for advice from others. As for your respect...I care not for your respect if you give it willy nilly...I met you just yesterday and I feel that you are a smarter person than to give your respect to someone you just met. Respect is just like trust...as you say it must be earned. I do want to hear Trisane's advice on this..whatever you want to call it...for I would be stupid not to..I do not respect him..simple because I do not know him. I do however respect him being a marine. That in of itself is no small feat. Alistair leans forward and looks right back to niks eyes staring deeply into them.
You are fool if you think that there will be no blood shed tonight. Lamm may or may not die tonight but someone will and we will be involved in it. If you want to sit on the side and tell the guards that you did not kill anyone...you will be an accessory after the fact and involved just as if you did the killing yourself. That man killed my sister and left her on the streets to bleed out...where was your justice then...hmm Where was it. You are selfish man to demand that the three here should stand aside from our own justice just so you can talk to him. He sits back and fold his hand together on the table. In a softer tone I would be just as selfish if I were in your shoes...I can not promise anything but I will try my best to give you what it is you seek. If we are able to you should be allowed to find out your answers. I can not in good faith condemn your brother to death because you and I do not see eye to eye.
I do not want a person that blindly follows anyone just because they say so...someone needs to be in charge. Trisane is a good choice but he is a marine and will treat us as if we were his marines.....do or die and not to question why...I will not follow that type of person..we all need to be together in this. Everyone has a choice in how we should do things. not just one person.
He looks around at the rest of the group...
Now if you do not mind I would like to have a drink with my meal as we try to figure out what it is we are going to do. I have not had a drink since last night and my throat is a bit dry right now.

Nik stands and stares at Alistair.

You ignorant child! You call me selfish and a fool, yet it is you who are acting like a sullen boy.

Nik realizes he is probably drawing more attention to them now and he returns to his seat. He pinches the bridge of his nose and takes a breath.

How like Tobar this man is. Impulsive and uncaring of others. The Dreamer must be trying to teach me something…

Nik’s tone shows he is still angry but he lowers his voice again.

You are the one who is being selfish Alistair. You come here to discuss a plan of nothing but murder and death. You seem unwilling to even consider an alternative, even though it may even destroy the chance for others to resolve their own problems. You’re vision of justice for your sister has clouded your judgement, or maybe it is just the drink that has done this. Do you not see that by seeking only blood you may condemn others to share her fate?

Alistair, heed my words on this. I have resolved to bring Lamm to justice for what he has done, and I have resolved that justice may mean his death. I am okay with this. But I ask you to think before you commit yourself to a course of action, not just for my own selfish desires but for the lives it may cost that I think you have either forgotten about or do not care about.

Nik stands to leave. Before he does so, he leans over the table one last time and whispers to Alistair again.

Enjoy your revelry young lord, but show caution as well. If you show up to the docks in a state like yesterday, I shall leave you there alone. I don’t take men ahead who are unable to know their limit. It risks them and the rest of us. I may not lead this troop, but I will see that the troop can support each other.

Nik then motions to Rom and turns to leave.

They want my advice but they don’t want to listen! All this arguing is giving me a headache. I doubt Alistair realizes how insulting he is to the rest of us. Nik shouldn’t take it so personal. Dock nobles think they own everyone. Ophelia shows more grace in rags and reeking of fish. Civilians over-complicate things and ask far too many questions. It’s so much easier to give orders and follow them… I doubt any of them will understand. I have to try though…

Trisane asks Nik politely to sit back down. He then responds with a quiet but stern voice.

You want my advice? Words are wind. It’s our actions that define us. You’re all undisciplined and inexperienced with this sort of thing so you’re going to need my help. Truth is you need someone to tell you what to do. Right now, that someone is me…

Alistair, if you really are as good a swordsman as you claim, that will be far more useful than your mouth. Stay close, stay quiet and try to stay sober.

Nik, I can tell you’re good with animals. I could use your help pacifying a certain striped fish. That’s how we’re going in.

Ophelia, you used to be a “Little Lamm”, this place is crawling with them. Try to keep the kids safe and out of our way. I don’t want any innocents to come to harm. Remember, we’re only after Lamm himself.

Trisane sits back and shakes his head as he speaks to everyone.

Listen, I know you’re all scared even if you don’t want to admit it. Trust me, I didn’t want to get mixed up in this either. If you want to get through it in one piece though, your best chance is to follow my lead. You know it’s true even if you don’t like it. No more deceptions, silly games or pointless bickering. Bring only what you need and all the courage you can muster. If we manage to work together as a team, we’ll see this to the end one way or another. With any luck, nobody has to die.

Trisane tucks his cloth napkin into his collar.

Not much more to it than that. Now let's eat. I'm starving.

The server comes at this point bringing plates of of grilled fish, some type of gamebird, and a haunch of meat fresh from the spit as well as mushrooms and vegetables, breads and drinks.

The aroma of the food alone lives up to Alistair's claims.

Rom leans closer to Nik's head, and whispers, as much as a raven can whipser,

Ce spune despre Desna care trece în sus o astfel de masă delicioasă? Poate ar trebui să mănânce. Vom avea nevoie de puterea noastră de mâine.

Pasăre hush!

Nik stares at Rom, then his scolding face softens.

Nu lecția cred că ea a însemnat ... Încă ești motivul pentru care să -mi ridicol.

Nik sits again.

My apologies for my outburst. Trisane is correct and his reasons are sound. We need to work together I think. I ask only caution and reason in our endeavors. If we wish for each others aid, then we should at least respect each others situations.

Nik turns to Alistair again.

I am sorry for your sister. I will ask the spirits to guide her in the Boneyard.

Rom will slowly inch down Nik's arm until he can hop onto the table and grab a particularly tasty looking morsel.

Alistair just laughs at nik..a simple laugh..
oh little nikki, little nikki..tsk tsk tsk. You tilt when should withdraw. You are making this too easy. You will need to keep your temper in check and learn to listen to what it is I say and not just what you want to hear. You are your own....person. I do not lead here now do I want to lead. I want what I want and that is all that should concern you. I want my own justice for my sister. I want to see Lamm on the end of my sword. his smile becomes thin and pointed and if there is another body on the point of that sword...so be it. I also want to find Trisane's nephew and bring all the children out of the place to safety. I also want Ophelia to find her peace of mind and her own justice. I also would like to find your brother as he seem like he would be a great person to hang out with and enjoy life to it's fullest. I will relish the times him and I will have in this city together
at this point Alistair's smile vanishes from his face. You do not like me and I do not like you nor do I care one bit about your delicate sense of worth. You are here just like the rest of us trying to bring Lamm to justice. Justice is in the eye of the individual. I am not blind to what is going on around me and I do see that there are innocents at risk here and I do see the larger picture even if your narrow mind will not accept that fact. You judge me on my actions on the night before,that is your wish and your ways. I am fine with you being narrow minded and foolish. You make this way too easy.
He looks over at trisane. with a respectful tone.
you are right that we do not have the experience of this sort of thing nor the experience of working together. I will honor your decisions on these matters as you are the logical choice to take point. BUT...and I say this with as much respect as I can for a marine and one who defends us all....I am not a marine nor did I want to be one...so do not expect me to follow your orders simple because you say so...I will speak my mind...I have known to many men and women that have died with the motto "ours is to do or die and not to question why" tattooed to their foreheads. I believe you to be a fair and honorable person who does not wish to see others die because he demanded them to blindly follow his orders.
As the server drops off dinner...
now if you all do not mind...
He looks straight at nik
oh and I do not care if you mind at all, as I am going to enjoy my meal and several cups of this good wine and ale.
He turns towards trisane.I know this is not a game and I will be ready to go this evening. We will see how I fair in this challenge. Training can only get you so far..sink or...swi..m...
he screws his face up in weird way.
yeah...I did just say that didn't I, Let us hope we are doing neither tonight.
He looks over at Ophelia
My lady,
I apologize for my banter, some words were spoken in the heat of the repartee. I hope that I did not bring any harsh feeling to you.
Alistair winks at nik.
To a passing server he says
Young lady would you please bring my friend here he motions to nik a jug of Madame Long's Dragon Well. Her brew from this morning was excellent. oh and my compliments on the beignets. Please and thank you.
looking at nik
The herbal tea should help to calm your nerves, but I warn you it has a little bite to it.
Smiling at nik
I do not accept your apology, as there is no need to apologize. You are who you are and I have accepted you for that. I took nor do I take offense to your words.
but I will accept it as the gesture it was intended to be.
Alistair looks at nik with genuine gratitude
on behave of the Wellington family I thank you good sir for the your kind words in regards to my sister.

Lord Wellington, no need to apologize, we're all on edge here. We've all been wronged by this man and want our own justice. Ophelia looks directly at Nik, then Trisane before continuing, we're all in this together through some sort. We can't do this alone, I know, I've tried. We need each other, remember that, we all want the same thing.

She turns to her journal, Anyways, back to business. Nik saw a man here. She marks an X where Yagrin was. We can expect him to be in the building somewhere, along with another one, maybe two. With Lamm, we're looking at possibly four opponents.

Didn't need to do much convincing, are we all too eager?

I agree that we should step up our plan. Thank you, Trisane, for allowing us to scout a bit. We didn't get much information, but we know more than we did before. I am worried about the kids getting in the way, they're innocents here, so I'll do my best to keep them out of your way and away from the enforcers.

Ophelia looks over the sketch and she circles the entrances. There's too many exits here. Where should we plan to enter? Perhaps Rom could watch from a corner, and warn us if anyone leaves by those doorways.

She looks up at Trisane. What would you suggest?

Rom hops across the table and intently watches as Ophelia points at various places on the map, looking up only when Ophelia says his name.
When she stops, he pokes at the map and squawks.

Si stai pe acea pasarelă laterală. S-ar putea organiza abia copiii, și-au păstrat alunecare și de alunecare. Unul aproape a căzut în apă acolo.

He then grabs something off Trisane's plate and flaps up into the rafters above to feast.

Nik places a gold coin on the table as he reaches out to take a helping of the food.

Lord Wellington, I do not care for your tone, nor your manners, nor your presence. I certainly do not care for your generosity.

Nik looks at Ophelia and Trisane, addressing them alone.

Marine, I will trust your judgement in this. You seem to be have experience, and confidence as well. I will do my best to handle the big fish and to bring the spirits to aid against our enemy. Or if needed to adjust and see to the children if Ophelia would be better suited to direct action.

As for Rom, he would make a good look out I think. He blends in pretty well and as long as we are not to far apart we can usually sense what each other are concerned with. I will tell him what we need done.

Nik takes a bite full of food. Talking through the bites, he continues.

What else should we do to prepare?