Gossip? Did someone Say Gossip? I have some Gossip. Ythl pops into view, holding a human sized wand as a staff.
Ythl waits for a few seconds, Well? Do you want to know what gossip I have? Ythl's patience, and attention wears thin and he starts to buzz around the room like a giant bee. Its something neat...
For a moment, Muziel is quite stunned by Ythl's re-emergence. But he plays along. "What did you learn, Ythl? Does it concern the Umbral Shepherd?"
Ythl eagerly nods in agreement to Muziel's question. Yep!Guess what else! Guess!
On seeing Ythl return, Karrick offers a patient sigh and crosses his arms over his chest and tilts his head to the side again. "Was wonderin' if you'd decided t'stick around with that old bag in the desert." Glancing side-long to Kera at mention of Miikae's departure, Karrick remains quiet for a moment before returning his attention to Ythl.
"Spill it, we ain't got time for guessing games."
Ythl!!!
Kera says as a wide smile break out a cross her face. Patting her shoulder she hoped her twisted fairy friend would come sit. As he spoke of gossip and Muziel guessed what the topic was about Kera looked thoughtful for a moment.
When Karrick seemed inpatient with their little friend she waved her hand in his direction as if to dismiss him.
”Did something happen? In the desert?”
Of course they didn’t have time to waste but Ythl was a delicate creature whom needed to be treated in a certain way.
”Maybe involving a dwarf?”
If he wanted to play a bit of a guessing game Kera would play along.
Nope! Nope! I went to see Arazni just like Grachius asked me too, You Owe me for That! The odd fey turns to Grachius with a stern tone. I want, hmm I want. What do I want from you... He ponders and Grachius smiles. How about this? Grachius holds his hand out reveling a shiny cufflink from his tailored noble attire.
What! Hmm, well its not my favorite, but ok that will do. Ythl agrees and takes the bauble and affixes it to his clothing.
These creatures are dangerous. I can not believe you are speaking so freely with it. Arazni spawn please, I have done you no harm leave me in peace. Klara is clearly distraught over Ythl's presence.
Kera pouted a little at Ythl when it was clear she had guessed wrong. Maybe it was the change in her but she was really starting to grow found of the little guy.
”What did Arazni have to say Ythl?”
She asks the twisted fey as she straightens out his new accessory. At least Grachius was paying the little fey his due for running around. When Klara starts acting like s fool Kera shoots her a look.
Ythl is not some monster. He’s our friend…deal with it Princess. Calm down or go hyperventilate somewhere else.”
She turned her attention back to Ythl to see what he has to say.
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Klara backs up slowly and starts for the door. I will meet you near Flynn's once you have finished speaking with...that thing. Klara says as she leaves
Oh Arazni said she would bind the Shepherd, but you have to hurry she can sense his arrival is near. Oh and she wants some gold and shiny stones for the service. I told her to add the last part, because gold is kind of boring and I knew Grachius had lots of shiny stones. We are to bring gold and shiny stones with us when we bring the Rod of Midnight to bind the Shepherd, which should be soon because she can sense it coming, like I said. Ythl speaks in his most serious mode, which could be mistaken for sarcasm to those unfamiliar with his mannerisms and tone.
Thank you Ythl, I will provide this for her. We must hurry then, Arazni is strong, but she can not bind the Shepherd for long. Grachius says sincerly.
"So, what are we waiting for? Let's be on our way. We'll see if Klara succeeds in her diplomacy. Do you want to come with us, Ythl? Don't worry about Klara - we like you much better than her." It was true, even if Ythl laughed at Muziel a lot.
"Fantastic," Karrick grouses with a sense of irony, "So whatever an arazni is, is gonna' bind with whatever the-- " Lifting up one hand to wipe over the top of his bald head, Karrick grumbles. "You know what, let's just get to the Duchess. I'll let you sort out this harbinger of the end business on your time, Muziel."
Knives, revenge, and all the connective tissue between those two points are miles simpler to Karrick than what's happening here.
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I will only come with you if Kera wants me too Ythl says pouting after Klara's outburst.
Kera rolled her eyes at Klara. When she called Ythl a thing Kera shot her a look of utter hate. Petting her precious little fairy’s back Kera scoffed at what Klara had said.
”Ignore her Ythl.”
Attention was turned back to Grachius as he spoke. It seemed they did have a pressing matter at hand. Looking to Karrick she shook her head softly.
”I think this is all connected. If we find the rod and this Shepherd we find Hana. Lets go get that rod.”
She looks to the Muziel to lead the way. When Ythl pipes up Kera smiles to her little friend.
”Of course I want you to come. You have been the biggest of help to us. I adore you Ythl.”
A small part in the back of Kera’s mind knew she wouldn’t like Ythl quite as much if the Mana storm hadn’t twisted her like it had. Walking over to Karrick slapped his backside.
”Lets get moving tiger.”
She had to bite her bottom lip to keep from laughing. Karrick was right…poking fun, teasing, someone was fun.
Ythl smiles and turns invisible again while clinging to Kera.
The Giant's Toe Tavern is a nicer establishment than it's name would suggest, the decor is upkept well and it is tasteful. The patrons on the other hand are another issue...
Ey Klara, why don't you comere and sit on my lap sweetthing, I want to show you my new revolver The drunken man barly creates a cohesive statement as he continues to drink the strong drink in his hand.
Turning to the party Klara says Not the most charming atmosphere, I know.
A halfling waitress appears behind Klara and shouts over the rowdy crowd Sit where ever you like and I will be by shortly to take any orders.
Muziel is rather confused by the contrast between tasteful decor and crude clientele. "Whoever runs this place deserves some better customers," he says to no one in particular. Muziel looks for a corner booth, out of the way, to sit.
Quirking his head to the side as he enters, Karrick cracks a lopsided smile and slaps a hand on Muziel's shoulder. "My kinda' place. Classy on the outside, dirty on the inside." With his hand on Muziel's shoulder, he directs the alchemist towards a table closer to the loud conversations than the isolated one Muziel wanted.
"People who sit by themselves got somethin' t'hide. They also can't mask their conversations over the noise of other, drunker people who likely ain't listenin'."
Kera was glad Ythl went invisible. No need to get Princess Sharp Shooter upset. Her reaction did make Kera wonder about Ythl and his sisters. Thoughts for another time that was for sure. Being more comfortable in her new skin Kera didn’t bother putting her hood up as they made their way to the tavern.
The Giant’s Toe was a contradiction. The posh décor would have made Kera feel out of place but the patrons did bring the place down to her level. As the man made a crude comment to Klara, Kera rolled her eyes. Did those cheese lines EVER work? Well the guy was drunk so no doubt he thought he was being a great romantic.
The halfling almost went unnoticed but her shout was unmistakable. As the group started to head toward a quiet table Kera was brought up short by Karrick’s sudden course correction. Okay not a quiet table. Reaching up Kera made sure Ythl was alright as they made their way to a more crowded area.
”Are you sure about this Tiger?”
She asked Karrick as they took a seat. She had to speak up a bit to be heard. Looking to Muziel she wondered if this had been a good idea.
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Comeon I have a table in the back. One of Flynn's men agreed to meet us. Try to be civil, and lets not mention your diety or the fact that there is a spawn of Arazni following us. Klara said in a hushed tone to the party as she weaves her way to the back room past rude men, pushing away hopefull attempts at pinching her rear as she walks the isle.
Kera is not so lucky as one of the patrons gropes at her while she is speaking to the Halfling barmaid.
Karrick cracks a smile and laughs as he walks with the group. "Looks like you got a fan club here, Pip."
"I hope it's just one of Flynn's men. Last I checked he wanted to send a posse after us."
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Kera gritted her teeth as she felt a hand on her body. She was going to let that pass…just this once. When Karrick made a comment she gave him a dark look. He had to know this wasn’t a topic to be joking about with her. She had just opened her mouth to answer Muziel when the man who touched her spoke.
She nearly gagged on his breath, turning her face away from him she snarled.
”Apparently you don’t know how to treat a lady. Go sit down before you hurt yourself.”
Kera would give this son of a motherless goat one chance to leave her alone before she brought pain into his world.
"Can't blame 'em fer tryin', Pip." Karrick notes with a lopsided smile before stepping ahead to catch up pace with Muziel as they head to the table that Klara mentioned.
"So what's the plan here, before we get t'the table. 'Cause I'm pretty sure you all don't want me doin' the talking." Lifting his goggles up to reveal his luminous, green eyes, Karrick offers a side-long look to Muziel.
Kera's intimidate
Sure, I'll sit down. Why don't you join me right her on my lap. The man ignore's Kera's harsh words mistaking it for playing hard to get. How could I hurt myself with such a pretty thing like you?
Klara looks back to the party, fingering her holy symbol of Calistra If only I had more time, I could have a lot of fun here she seems to be thinking with a sly grin on her face. Hurry up, Kera you can bring your friend if you likez
"Plan? I'll just tell him the truth, that we're intent on finding the Duchess. You and Grachius can hang out and watch our backs."
"Works fer me," Karrick agrees, already slowing his pace and giving Muziel an understanding nod of approval. "Knock 'em dead," is perhaps not the best thing to say at this juncture, but there it is regardless.
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Muziel makes his way to the back area of the saloon and sees one of Flynn's men.
Nice to see you again Lady Klara. Ah, master Muziel good of you to come. I am sorry for my boss's outburst life in the wastes has a way of making people see things in black and white, but I have heard of you and some of your recent exploits and they are not a sign of someone beyond redemption. The tall thin Elven man takes a drink from his pint of ale. Would you like a drink? He asks politely.
Sanzu this is Muziel, Muziel this is Sanzu. Now lets get down to business. And you know I want a drink. This place has a rough reputation, but it is one of the only places in town to get Varisian Wine.
From a distance as he observes Muziel's interaction, Karrick scrutinizes Sanzu on his arrival. Brows furrowed, he recognizes the man's high cheekbones and dusky skin as more than just an unusual complexion. He'd seen someone like Sanzu down in the Avernus prison, someone that was more dangerous than even he is in the dark. Clenching his jaw, Karrick tenses and glances over at Kera, then back to Muziel and Klara's conversation.
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"A pleasure, Sanzu. Varisian wine, you say? Quite a rarity in these parts.". Muziel will take the time to order some for herself and Klara. "So, do you speak for Flynn? I know he is eager to figure out the disappearance of the Duchess, as we are."
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I handle...less savory tasks for the Niven guild. After the discovery of the Reidford's Flynn ordered the Niven to clear out of the Reidford guild house. I am to head an expedition into these underground passages to find what there is to find and hopefully the Lady Hana.
Sanzu sneezes and makes strange gestures after taking a swig off of his ale. Man that's strong!
An awareness crosses Karrick's face as he watches Sanzu's mannerisms. A look is shot to Kera, and without giving her any sort of cue he steps forward and clears his throat, posturing a we don't have time for this attitude. Then, as he looks over to Sanzu Karrick just nods and takes a step back slowly, maintaining eye-contact on the half-blood.
Too hard to pass a message on to the others. They'd just best keep up when things go crazy.
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. Muziel is a bit puzzled as Karrick comes in and clears his throat. He seemed to be in a hurry, but why? Something was wrong. Muziel leans over as if to whisper to Kera. "Ythl, can you quietly find out from Karrick what's going on?"
Muziel then turns back to Sanzu. "I appreciate your hospitality, but let us not dally any longer than necessary. Will you permit us to enter these caverns as well? You may lead your own expedition, but we would prefer to handle things ourselves. There's enough friction between our groups as things stand."
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You may come with me and my men, but know that I am in charge of the expedition, and that no looting shall be permitted inside the vault. If we find Hana and she vouches for you, well thats another story. Grachius, you will not be permitted to come. As I am sure you are aware you are no longer in the good graces of the people of Alkenstar. You will be taken to Alkenstar with the Funeral procession. I will ensure the proper bounties are paid. He adds the last part looking at Klara and the party.
Sanzu takes a drink and winks at Karrick.
I need to go check on my horse, it is ill and I did not like the look of the stable boy I left him with. I shall return shortly.
When Sanzu leaves and attention shifts in Karrick's direction, the goggled rogue is nowhere to be seen. The tail of a tattered cloak zipping out a door the only indication as to where he may have gone. Karrick is quick to follow Sanzu out of the building, retrieving his wicked knives from their sheathe at the small of his back on the way out.
Shadowing Sanzu to the stables, Karrick keeps a close eye out in the shadows, waiting for not only the potential of ambush, but the potential of a double-cross. His luminous eyes pierce the dark, seeking the threats that would try to find shelter there.
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Karrick follows Sanzu outside. He goes around back to a local stable. Oblivious to Karricks presence a familiar face and half a dozen men come from inside the stables. The alley leading to and from the stables are being blocked off by a patrol of Inglis guildsmen.
Of course my Lady, but how will I get him out without being noticed? He has come with quite an impressive escort. Rumor has it they visited the Desert Witch and lived to tell about it. Sanzu says replying in Common tongue for Karrick's benefit.
Are you are hiding something from me Sanzu? Xelra asks in common and looks around suspiciously.
Why would I? I am no fool I know my current position.
Sanzu responds as he rubs his arms. Its cold out here shall I go fetch Grachius then? Maybe I can say I need to take him now to the funeral procession or something.
Xelra seems not to notice.
While Sanzu is gone, Muziel questions Klara. "What do you know of this Sanzu character? Is he to be trusted? He seems keen on us traveling with him underground, but that's not what we want. Not to mention he wants to leave behind the man who best knows how to bind the Umbral Shepherd."
I don't know about this Umbral Shepherd, but Sanzu is one of Hana's most loyal allies. She saved him from a fate worse than death. And believe me, if we are going after what ever did that to the Reidford's, we will need all the help we can get. Klara says to Muziel and tosses back a shot of very hard liquor without flinching.
Having successfully slipped into the alley unnoticed, Karrick stalks through the shadows while Sanzu distracts Xelra and her men with conversation. Once he's gotten a handle on the situation, the number of options begins to narrow. Maneuvering through the periphery of the conversation, Karrick's broad-shouldered silhouette comes to put Xelra between himself and Sanzu.
The only advance warning Sanzu gets to Karrick's intention is the tell-tale glow of green eyes in the dark over Xelra's shoulder, then the glint of a blade seconds before it is plunged with an adder's swiftness into the small of her back.
That was for the look she gave him on the way out of the tower.
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Seizing the opportunity Sanzu casts a quickened spell and delivers it through his rapier he pulls out with equal quickness.
x2
Xelra lays on the ground gasping for air as she whispers Kill them!
the 6 Cheliax Guards
The Inglis Guards at the blockades.
Sanzu whistles loudly and his steed bursts out of the Stables. This horse is no ordinary mount.
Sanzu's Initiative
In the distance Karrick can see Ythl putting one of the blockade groups of Inglis to sleep.
Sanzu directs his Eidolon to charge the Cheliax guards and casts a spell. The strange mount grows in size as it delivers its powerful rush.
The Guards deftly maneuver out of the way and cut the beast down.
We should probably run, I am out of tricks Sanzu says flatly.
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Seeing Xelra collapse on the ground, Karrick spins his knife around to hold in a backhanded grip while drawing its pair with his free hand. Taking a knee, he brings both wickedly curved blades down to her chest. Looking swiftly up to Ythl, Karrick cracks a smile. "Get the others."
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"Yes, something is quite wrong," replies Muziel in common. He listens for signs of trouble. .
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Muziel realizes it has been a while, but fails to hear anything over the rowdy ruckus of the Giant's Toe.
Xelra's eyes dull and Karrick sees his reflection for a brief moment in the Elven woman's eyes before they no longer possess the quality of life. I eat souls mortal The voice of the Desert Witch's strange raven echo in Karrick's mind.
The one guard with a unique helmet attempts to cast a spell out of habit. It never goes off. He hisses and closes in on Karrick and yells They've Killed Xelra! Kill them!
Two guards charge Karrick
The last three Guards charge Sanzu
Ythl follows Karrick's orders and puts the other Blockade to sleep. One of them Screams Arazni Spawn just before he falls asleep.
Staggering backwards, covered in blood, Karrick smacks his armored back against the wall of the alleyway from the force of the axe blows. He stumbles, looking at the deep cut through his right bicep and another that cleaved into his armor at his side. Shaking his head sharply and huffing out a few sharp breaths, Karrick growls a haggard, "lead the way," to Sanzu as he shakes his cloak closed around himself and steps out of the light into the long shadows of the alley.
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