Ben grins.
"Drinks? That, I can assist with!"
Wincing every time there's a shriek from the park, Dee turns her attention from the injured and death to observe the injured dandy. Her eyes narrow slightly and she tilts her head, the brim of her hat covering her suspicions.
"I am Deanna." She says formally introducing herself, but not her full name - since as she suspects any name the gloved fellow may present would be fictitious or at least partial.
She does however smile archly at Valexia's comment about strangers, nodding that a visit to a book-store may be best and wondering how often his book-club actually meets. 'There was quite a few factions around today, I wonder which part he plays...' she ponders.
The man smiles at Bertom. "I can hardly blame your suspicions, but I do, in fact, know you. Or some of you. I had arranged to meet Sig. Corax and Sig.na Sarini-Marinaiox at the park, having watched them for some time now. I was not surprised to see their two friends along, but you, sir, are an enigma. However, I take your willingness to step forward and protect them as a sign of good faith, so am happy to include you in my group of new friends."
"I was regrettably late for our assignation, for which I deeply apologize." He bows to Dee and Ensis. "I briefly glimpsed you among the crowd, but you were leaving the park - wisely, I must say - in the opposite direction. I was near the edge of the crowd, emerged, and skirted the park through less-crowded side streets. I thought to catch you here when you came by, but these gentlemen had other ideas." He waves dismissively at the scattered, groaning bodies.
"And now, shall we exit these rather dangerous streets for a safer haven?"
Ensis looks down at his outfit and sighs, "You know, this outfit was quite dashing this morning before it was covered with blood... even if most of it belongs to these 'Citizens'..."
He steps forward, ready to offer a hand to the man, then pauses and falls back, then nods, "Any weapon we take is one less that would be raised against the people.... better still, these can be turned against the oppressors."
He looks about, then nods, "The one that fled is likely to come back, and with greater numbers, given how easily we dealt with this lot. I'd say that a bit of conversation over a good book and a cup of wine sounds like an ideal way to spend the rest of the afternoon...."
He chuckles, for a moment as a thought strikes him, and adds, "..and, might I say, I'm pleased to learn that Spinias wasn't trying to get me arrested or killed when he was sending me to meet you."
"Here, En, come here and I'll clean that off for you. There's simply no sense in going anywhere without looking your best," says Valexia, readying herself to perform some more prestidigitation.
"Lady Aulamaxa, while I applaud your sentiment, the timing may not be the best. If you all are satisfied for now, please, accompany me to Crissali's. We can repair damages there. It is not far and is a public place, so I couldn't possibly hope to trap you there," the stranger finishes with a grin.
He offers a courteous arm to Dee. "My lady, if you will?"
The stranger leads the way through a warren of side streets at a leisurely pace, one which will not tax Dee's aching head. He winces at the occasional scream from behind them, though they fade rapidly.
Their brief perambulation ends at a dingy storefront in a block of closed and shuttered stores. A creaking sign proclaims it "Crissali's Fine Tomes". Inside, the space is cluttered with tall shelves crammed with what must be a fortune in books. The stacks make a maze, but peering between shelves, the group can see that the store has taken over the others on the block, with walls knocked out and replaced by heavy beams supported by sturdy wooden posts wrapped with iron bands. Sunlight is blocked by the shutters, but the occasional torch burns smokelessly and magically in its bracket, shedding pools of light. Stray will-o-the-wisp glows among the stacks mark where the magically gifted - however slightly - peruse the volumes in shadow.
"La-Lord Victocora," a woman's low voice calls from the shadows, "How good to see you."
"Lord Victocora" leads the way to a counter along the front wall. "Amddifadd," he nods, smiling, "My book club has assembled."
The slender, pale young woman behind the desk nods, her mismatched green and blue eyes scanning the party both searchingly and dispassionately before she lowers her head and hides her peaked, beautiful face behind a screen of dark hair. She stoops to retrieve an ornate key from behind the counter and hands it to their contact. "Of course. The back room is yours. We have nothing scheduled until tomorrow, so take all the time you need for your discussion."
"My thanks, Amddifadd," he says with a slight bow, then leads they way through the maze to a battered door which appears to have once been part of a proud and noble structure. He uses the key, ushers the group in, and sets the key in the inside section of the lock, half-turning it and leaving it. "There," he smiles, "Now nobody can complain of more than negligence if the authorities come a-knocking." Slinging his rich cloak from his shoulders, he hangs it on one of a row of hooks along the wall.
"Lady Aulamaxa, I think we would all be glad for some of your magical talents, if you would be so kind. It doesn't do for a club of scholars such as ourselves to look as if we've been brawling in alleys." Upon closer examination, their contact proves to be a short, slender man with dark hair and eyes and a neatly trimmed goatee. "Thank you all again for the timely rescue. I had been angling to intercept you, as you know, which was fortunate for me. As I had hoped, you prove yourselves to be people of uncommon skill, and I am a man of uncommon needs."
Opening a cabinet, he retrieves a bottle and some glasses, and motions the group to the chairs. The room is set up like a private study, comfortable but shabby, with a darkened fireplace and heavy leather chairs and sofas scattered about, suitable for either reading or discussion. More torches are burning here, lighting the room rather better than the stacks outside. A locked cabinet of volumes stands on the far wall opposite the door, and a large, bare desk graces the wall opposite the fireplace.
Their host splashes liquor into the glasses rather carelessly and offers them around as he continues. "My name is Rexus Victocora, and until last week's Night of Ashes, I was one of the city's nobles. My parents' estate was burned to the ground that night. I escaped only because I was studying at the Alabaster Academy during the fire. There were other fires that night, as you know -- fires that many believe were started by Barzillai Thrune's agents in an attempt to quash any spirit of rebellion Kintargo might have."
He toasts them wordlessly with his own glass and takes a deep swig, then sighs. "Now more than ever we need that spirit to stay strong, but Thrune's actions have driven into hiding those who would normally resist. Those who could once rally the city to a cause, such as Lord-Mayor Jilia Bainilus and my parents, are missing at best, and are more likely dead. I cannot do this on my own, but with the aid of talented citizens such as yourselves, I have hope that we can. What say you? Will you aid me? Will you aid Kintargo? Will you save the city from the devil?"
He plunks down wearily into one of the plump armchairs, cocking his head and scrutinizing the faces of those in the room.
"I don't much care for Thrune. He put a bit of a roadblock in my career aspirations," sighs Valexia as she performs her prestidigitation on everyone about to make them as presentable as is possible. "The Opera House! As if a man like that could possibly understand art. Understand, I am not much of a fighter, but I am certainly willing to lend my voice and my bow to any cause that would see him ousted from my home."
She takes her drink, sitting down on the chair and crossing one leg over the other, "I am sorry to hear about your family as well, Lord Victocora. I imagine that artless rube has no fondness for my family either. Really, it's his fault if I cause trouble! What else am I to do with all the free time that he's given me?"
The beverage proves to be a deep green liqueur which tastes faintly of rosemary and anice. Their host bows his thanks for the spellwork.
"Personally, Lady, it seems to me that he is the one causing the trouble. We were quite fine without House Thrune poking its infernal noses into our business. And the sooner you retake the stage, the better for the world!" He smiles and toasts the celebrity guest.
As the group move unsteadily to the bookshop, Dee has quite a pale complexion - whether from blood-loss or the continued implication of bloodshed from the screams of the park.
The cool interior of the bookshop is a welcome relief from the street, whilst she puts a hand on Bens shoulder to steady her. She remembers walking past the shop many a time, seeing the more scholarly people hiding amongst the towers of books rather than acting as the world changes.
Though she'd prefer to keep standing and against the wall of the backrrom, her knees tell her that sitting is better. And she plops down into the soft seat, to listen to Rexus' speech.
'"you prove yourselves to be people of uncommon skill, and I am a man of uncommon needs." I'm sure I heard something similar from a Taldorian sailor, at the Crown pub a few months back.... it was a bad chat-up line then....' Dee thinks, her wits still a trifle addled from the earlier encounter.
"Save the city? Politics is a tricky business, hence why I have estranged myself slightly from my families house. Now if you are talking of something a trifle more direct.... well that too requires politics." Dee sighs; "For despite one of the thugs saying that they weren't meant to brutalise the citizens, I'm sure Thrune has all the angles covered. Reactions are what he's provoking... and such reactions need to be chosen carefully."
She ponders slightly as she receives a drink; "For to set a fire in the hearts and minds of the citizens is a what must be done, no leader can rule without the consensus of the people & the masses want the status-quo, the easy life. Only if the are inspired, can we aspire to a fairer Kintargo."
Seeing as the others appear to know this person and they all seem to think it's a good idea Bertom agrees "Alright...don't mean to be overly suspicious, just seems to be one of those days that everyone wants to club me."
Accepting Valexia's offer of prestigiditation he blinks down at his now much cleaner attire "Thank you Lady Aulamaxa" He says finding a seat and flopping down wearily.
The young rogue seems somewhat hesitant at this Lord Victocora's call to action, he considers Dee's little speech "We should be careful, but Thrune's been pushing everyone this whole time. I don't know about you, but I'm pushed right to the edge, it looks like it's time for me to make a decision, I can give up just let him push me over, or I push back."
Seeming to have made up his mind he looks towards their host"I'm also not much for a straight fight, as you may have seen I ended up needing just as much rescuing as you did, but I'll help if I can. I can sympathize, my parents are also missing" Though they have been for basically his entire life. "Whether or not that's related to Thrune and rebels I can't say, but it could be a chance for me to find out."
Ben follows along with the others as they make their way through the rapidly emptying streets. If he notices Dee's hand on his shoulder, he doesn't make any mention of it. Whether due his sensitivity for her feelings and not wishing to bring notice to her injury, or just because he seems to be acting even more strangely than he already has for the past few minutes.
Deanna and Valexia know Ben well enough to suspect that his latest brand of mutanagenic mayhem seems to be playing merry havoc with his sense of common sense. While Ben doesn't use his transformative potions often, (in fact, since that last little incident at the Crown Pub, they haven't seen Ben use it since) they know it affects his behavior as well as his physical abilities. During the walk, Ben seems to beholding an intense, whispered, argument with an invisible companion. Or perhaps he's just discussing something with himself. Fortunately Ben seems to have finished the discussion, or he lost the argument, by the time they reach the bookstore. Ben's gaze has gone from silly, happy smiles and giggles to borderline paranoia, as he furtively glances around at everything with a wide-eyed, not-quite-panicked look on his face.
As 'Lord Victocora' distributes drinks, Ben sways, and plops down on the couch next to Dee, whom he doesn't seem to realize is there. Dee's glance at Ben confirms that his tonic must have worn off, and she can almost hear the snaps and pops as Ben's body refills his clothing to it's original, perfect, fit, and his ears lose their elvish pointy-ness.
A sip of the Green liqueur, and Ben refocuses immediately. Smacking his lips he takes another sip, then pulls out his battered notebook with one hand and hastily scribbles a quick note as their host makes his pitch.
"Well. I certainly harbor no love for House Thrune generally, or our new Lord-Mayor specifically. He certainly seemed to go to quite a bit of trouble just to create even MORE tension than he already had. I'm certain he did it quite on purpose. Just as I am also sure that while I don't know his reasoning, I'm certain that it bodes only ill for the citizens of our city. Rich or poor."
Ben takes another large swig of the green liqueur before continuing.
"Not to put too fine a point on it sir, but I don't know what, exactly, you think that the five of US, erm, I beg your pardon, six including you, can hope to accomplish against this particular devilish infestation?"
Ensis watches carefully, keeping his jovial mask in place, He seems genuinely concerned about the loss of his family... It seems that some of the Houses are less... harsh... than the one I grew up in. Then again, it pays to be on the right side of the sheets, I'm sure...
Ensis says, "Milani would be disappointed with me if I didn't agree.... though, to be honest, I'm not doing this out of duty. I'm certainly delighted to invent new ways to embarrass, or better still, weaken and destroy, the House to which I was born... as they have the people of Kintargo..."
He then nods at Deanna, "She has the right of it, however. At first, I thought the edicts were just the act of a man out of touch, and likely tainted by fiendish blood..." ...more than I am, that is... "...but with the last, especially the way it was announced, makes it clear that our new 'lord-mayor' is playing a very deliberate, calculated game here... so much so that it wouldn't surprise me to learn that he set in motion the very things that led to his appointment. Still, the one very clear truth is that we cannot afford to let the man keep setting the rules, or we all lose."
Rexus smiles wryly. "None of us can help what we are by birth, but we can certainly take control of what we become. And, though our alchemist points out that we are few in number, we can be the seeds - and guides - of a rebellion. I believe Kintargo was content because Cheliax was content to leave us alone. Now that the situation has changed, the spirit of Kintargo is fired, as we saw in the park today. Yet massive shows of displeasure will only bring about more of the same violence and further oppression. I propose something different."
"If you will be so kind as to bear with me for a minute, I'd like to tell you a story. Seven days ago, my mother spoke to one of her friends about the disappearance of the Lord-Mayor. She was convinced that there was trouble coming for Kintargo, that the disappearance was not flight but something more sinister. Her friend did not take that warning seriously. That night, my parents' estate was burned to the ground; my parents, gone."
"This alarmed my mother's friend. She sought me out and passed along the warning, including a few things my mother had given her that day. I have them here with me, the last of the family fortune availble, along with this." A long piece of parchment dangles between his fingers, and he leans to pass it to the nearest person. "It is a letter to me, but please, read it for yourselves." Sighing heavily, he continues, "Would that she had confided in me sooner, but she may not have realized the blow would fall so swiftly. She may have thought that I had enough trouble in my life as it was and wished to keep me uninvolved. I fear we will never know, based on that letter."
The green drink keeps their new friend's brooding gaze occupied for a few moments as the letter is passed along and read. Finally, he stirs and resumes. "I have, in fact, recently heard of a group calling themselves the Silver Ravens, but had no idea there was historical precedent for such a thing. I have not heard news of them since the Night of Ashes. Either they were destroyed or they have gone underground. Whatever the case, I know of no one acting intelligently in Kintargo's behalf. I propose that we do so. There may be resources left from the old Ravens, and we can certainly recruit new ones to our side, especially after today. I believe Kintargo will rise with the right inspiration, and that rebellion will succeed with wise leadership. What say you? Will you stand against Thrune and its devilish allies? Will you join me and become the heart of the new Silver Ravens?" His eyes flash with passion, and he rises from his seat as if he hears a trumpet call to arms that no one else can.
Portrait of Rexus Victocora
Lady Victocora's Letter to Rexus
Ensis says, "I would imagine that they are being hunted... it may be why there's been an increase in 'concerned citizens'." He then shrugs, then stands calmly, "However, this... this is exactly the sort of step that changes the game... Even just making sure that the name is whispered in the right places will introduce complications for his lordmayorship... and think how much more... thorny... those complications become if we can find some resources in this old cache."
He looks at the others, then reaches out his hand to Rexus, "I am in... you may count on my blade, my wit, and my keen fashion sense....I will not speak for the others, which may make me a poor Thrune, though I do hope they see things the same way."
He shrugs, then looks back to the others, "Of course, having said that, it's easy for me to do this. Other than you lot, everyone I've ever really cared about has already been taken by Hellknights.... or are already in hiding with the Bellflowers or the Church of Milani. I've nothing to lose if I am known as a Raven, and, in fact, naming me as such would be an embarrassment to the House, if only a very small one."
Rexus clasps the offered hand with a fierce grin. "Welcome! Though we cannot choose our family, we can choose our friends. And sometimes, through shared trials, friends can become like family. Spinias was right about you, and I am glad of it."
He stands shoulder-to-shoulder with Ensis and surveys the others. "All of you surely have reason to want to see the last of Thrune in Kintargo. Your careers, your families, your friends, your freedom, your very lives... all are in jeopardy. Stand with us!"
Ben reads the letter thoughtfully when it is passed to him. He adjusts his reading spectacles slightly as he does so.
Ensis, Dee and Val are all well aware that the spectacles are merely an affectation for Ben, who does not actually need them to read. But they are usually far too polite to point it out.
Ben looks at the others over the rims of his glasses. His gaze slowly rakes the room, taking in the others reactions.
"Well," He drawls slowly.
After an almost uncomfortable length of silence, Ben's mouth twitches.
"Far be it from me to ignore such an earnest and heartfelt plea. Even on my worst day I hope I am not that uncouth. But I confess this may be just the sort of challenge that I have been looking for. The chance to pit my own intellect and skills against the best and brightest of House Thrune itself? I would be happy to assist in any endeavor that aids the denizens of our fair city, especially with THAT tiny tidbit as a bonus prize!" He smirks.
Ben stands and extends a gloved hand to their host.
"My skills are at your disposal sir."
"Rebellion?!" her voice a hoarse exclamation, eyes intensely looking around the group. For she had taken part in youthful acts of indiscretion, some which were severely frowned upon in their illegality. However never did she completely cross the line of outright rebellion.
Observing the eagerness in the eyes of Ensis, Ben's stature or Bert's resigned acceptance - Dee is a trifle conflicted. "This could mean our necks." Her hands shake softly as she can still hear the screams of the innocent ringing in her ears. That makes up her mind; "Any acts of incitement have to be measured. As do any acts designed to change the Thrunes' mind...." They're a slight implication that it might include removal of his head - but the local noble is trying to be circumspect to an extreme.
"I do not like taking others name in vain." Dee glance brings her hand up to rub the bridge of her nose. "Although like Ensis says, if it obfuscates the authorities - allowing others to thrive." She shrugs causing the shoulder of her dress to slip in a slightly revealing fashion.
She sighs, wriggling back into the depths of the chair. "I'd preferred to know more about these Silver Ravens, for to name yourself as such is to align with certain ideologies."
"Oh dear. 'Rebellion' is such a strong word." Ben tsks.
"And entirely dependent upon who 'wins' this particular series of events. As we all know, History is written by the winners. Whether we shall be branded 'heroes' or 'terrorists' depends entirely on whether or not we succeed. And what methods we may employ getting there." He adds as an afterthought.
"Well now my dear Lady, I sincerely hope that we shall not be taking anyone's name in vain. But from what I gather, we shall be striving to uphold an ideal. Certainly a worthy tribute to those who may have given their lives to a cause they believe in." Ben says to Dee as he re-seats himself next to her.
(Maintaining proper distance decorum, of course.)
"Although, if we are successful, I rather imagine that certain parties may soon be using the name in vain." Ben's mouth twitches into a brief smile at the thought of the 'Lord Mayor' cursing aloud about silver ravens.
"Unfortunately, Lady, I too know little about them besides what is in the note. Thrune's historical revisionists have done a good job of eliminating mention of the Silver Ravens. They were a group of Kintargo citizens who fought the takeover of Cheliax by Thrune during the civil war eighty years ago. They lost, but besides the resources they may have left - if we can find them - there may be some who pass down memories of the Ravens within their families, and might rally to a call." Rexus smiles. "It is as good a name as any, and if there is no memory or reputation, I say let us build them!"
Ensis says, "I'd heard some tales of them -- from my mother, though they were mixed in with tales of the Bellflower network, I think. Still, I've been pursuing knowledge of them as best I could, including my time with the Church of Milani. Ultimately, however, the strength is in the name -- knowing that there is a group standing up to House Thrune would certainly boost the spirit of the people of Kintargo."
"The Silver Ravens?" Bert muses looking over the letter "I've taken an active interest in them and other rebel groups." He looks towards Dee and gives a slight smile "I think they preferred to refer to themselves as Freedom Fighters if that sits better with you."
He shrugs his shoulders about the ideology question "Unfortunately even with the interest I took I've only found bits and pieces about the Silver Ravens, and what of that is fact or rumour." With a nod towards Ensis he adds "Like our friend says the name itself carries a lot of power, there's been an active effort to squash all information on them, there's bound to be others interested that are hiding away. About ideals... main thing is the fight for freedom."
The short young man turns his attention to Rexus "The letter says collect heroes though, and from what you said sound like you need leaders, ain't really think I qualify" His fingers find the broken belt buckle in his pocket. Heroes aren't orphans in the street that have to fight off rats for a place to sleep, and steal buckles to pay for their next meal. Valexia, and her friends people will follow... how long can I pretend I belong here?
Valexia reads over the letter softly and she stifles an uncomfortable laugh, "Heroes? Well... I am certainly concerned for my friends, career and family. Her having said that you should gather heroes..." She glances about to her friends and Bertom, "Well, I suppose we'll have to do. I'll be whatever colour Raven you wish. I've always been rebellious, so why not just double down and be part of a rebellion?"
She takes a long drink from her glass and stands, and speaks in a sort of speech song while she swirls her glass, looking up as she considers her words,
"An active rebellion,
Against Thrune and his hellions,
To forever impede him,
And seek out our freedom..."
She takes another sip,
"With the name of the Ravens,
To make Kintargo a haven,
I'll do what I can,
In the name of these lands."
Valexia shrugs and repeats, "I'll do what I can. But to be honest, I don't know where one would begin."
Ben looks at Bertrom with a renewed interest. It isn't often that he finds someone with esoteric knowledge that he hasn't at least heard of.
"I'll hazard a guess that THIS isn't your typical job interview lad." He offers kindly.
"True leaders aren't those who are given commands over armies, or cities. True leaders are those that step up when needed. And unless I am mistaken,... you just did." Ben salutes Bertrom with his glass before downing the remainder of it's contents in a single gulp.
"And some of us are born to it." she smiles cheekily at Ben before taking the note from his hands.
Perusing the note quickly, she responds to Valexia's query in a hushed tone; "Very nice tune, seems the livery might be a place to start. Though rash choices lead to disaster, it's been my experience."
"What are heroes but those who step forward and brave danger when others do not? And that is what I am asking of you. It is, in fact, something I saw you do in the alley, young man." Rexus pauses, pondering Bertom's words. "And do you know, you are absolutely right. If they defended Kintargo from Thrune in the civil war, they were hardly rebels, were they? By all accounts, including the official Thrune histories, Thrune won the civil war and overthrew the government."
With a laugh of delight, he continues, "I am pleased, very much so, by your willingness to help. I firmly believe this is the right course for our beloved city, and that our choices, however daring, are not entirely rash, Lady." He gives Dee a slight bow. "And now, to show my good faith, I share with you all that remains of my inheritance, left by my wise and foresighted mother. For if she had not secured these items with a friend, I would have nothing at all."
He retrieves a small silver coffer from a high shelf, opens it, and spreads the contents on the empty desk, holding them each up as he does so. "A small bag of gold, about 150 pieces, I'd wager. My family's signet ring. We can sell it at need. I can't think of a worthier end for it, though it is precious to me. This dagger is an old family heirloom. Great-grandfather claimed to have slain a werewolf with it, much to our amusement. These cuffs have protective enchantments and may be very useful in danger. This decrepit-looking thing is actually a wand - it radiates magic, though we don't know what it does. This key... this I must keep, I am sorry. It is all I have left of my parents. I don't know what it goes to."
He looks at the group and waves at the items laid out, then secures the old-fashioned silvery key on a chain around his neck. "Here is my contribution to the cause at the moment. I'm afraid I am little help in a fight, but will help however else I can. Please, take what you need."
"You surely need to rest, heal, and regain strength before exploring the Fair Fortune. It should be deserted, but one never knows what opportunistic creatures have invaded such places. Shall we meet here in, say, two days to seek Fair Fortune?"
"Rest and prepare? An excellent suggestion sir." Ben notes while inspecting the so-called 'wand' with a bemused eye.
Ben mentally notes anything memorable about the silvery key as their host puts it on and tucks it into his shirt. Keys are meant to open things, which means that somewhere, something with a very particular lock is waiting for that key to show up and do so.
"Twould be a shame to part with this heirloom for mere money." Ben notes, indicating the signet ring.
"Presuming that your parents were either members of, or at least in good standing with, the original Silver Ravens, it may serve far better as a means of identification. Presuming we DO find any remnants left after the night of ashes."
Rexus shrugs. "From the sounds of the letter, Mother was researching the Silver Ravens, not a member. They have been gone these last eight decades or so, and my parents were not quite that old, no matter how it may have seemed when I was little! I have not returned to the ruins of our manor house since that night. It seemed unwise to attract attention. But to my knowledge, the abandoned Fair Fortune stable was not burned that night. Let us hope to find more than moldy oats and rotten hay!"
Ensis says, "I've little need for anything other than my blade... save maybe some time to rest and more of this fine wine... though I thank you for the kind offer."
"Your signet ring... I need to get mine replaced," says Valexia, looking to her fingers where there are only some random bangles and other accessories. She reaches for the so-called wand to take a look at it, using Detect Magic to see if there is anything interesting about it.
"Exploring the stables after some rest sounds nice. Maybe I'll be able to practice my curative magics a bit. I'm pretty new to it, and I don't fully understand, but seems like I'll need to learn quick..." says the bard before adding, "Oh, Dee, you may want these bracers. I know you're much stronger than I am, but I'd rather see you better protected. You worried me today."
Bertom blinks at Ben for a moment "Well if that's what this is I suppose you could say it's exactly like every job interview I've ever had, this being the first." He lightly scratches the back of his neck "I never really thought I was very exceptional like you lot, I don't know that I'll live up to the expectation, but if you'll have me I'll gladly stick around. Like I mentioned earlier I'm not great in a fight, but I have a fair hand gathering info, and staying out of sight."
Looking over the items Rexus has produced from the coffer he furrows his brow letting the others examine them. He looks towards Rexus when he explains the dagger"Did you say a werewolf?" leaning in closer to examine the blade "That's quite a claim even if you're skeptical. The most mine has slain would be a few rats." straightening he looks towards the man with a puzzled expression "Are you certain you want to give these treasures to us? If I had anything left from my family I do not think I would part with it easily."
Ben nods to their host, showing his understanding of the man's conviction, and of his loss.
"Very well then. If you are willing, I think that this will cover the cost of a few good elixirs that should serve us well. Besides my healing draghts, which Dee and Bert can attest to the efficacy of, I know how to mix brews which should give even the least threatening of us an edge in a fight." Ben says, holding the ring up between two fingers to examine it closer.
"Still a shame. Fine craftsmanship." He murmurs to himself.
Ben looks over at Val's melodious voice.
"Oh yes, please Dee, do try the bracers on for size won't you? I bow to your superior athleticism, but even my coat is thicker than your skin my dear."
"And not to put too fine a point on it, but that red stuff you were wearing earlier belongs on the INside. Do try and keep it there won't you?" Ben says wryly, winking mischievously for a moment before resuming his usual bored expression.
Nodding with agreement that the signet ring is much better suited as an identification, token of trust or signal than a pretty bauble to be hawked to a miserly merchant. However she agree's with Bertom; "Certainly, we wouldn't want to deprive you of links to your family - even those of us who can be at odds with relatives." Dee shares a glance with Ensis and a wry smile, although the daring swashbuckler has more conflict with his kin than her.
However upon Ben & Vals' insistence she takes the cuffs and examines them carefully, ensuring the clasps can easily release or there's no devil marks on the trim or interior. For still a trifle reticent and cautious, especially around relative strangers - and cursed cuff's that turn to manacles were not unheard of.
"I wonder if they'll suit. Or if you just want me in some leather Ben?" she nudges him in the ribs; "Like that lady who turned up at Clenchjaw's." She lets out a soft throaty laugh at the wistful look in the experimenters eyes.
The brief look of sheer panic that flickers through the brewer's eyes is far more than the friendly gibe should likely warrant. He coughs a nervous laugh before his eyes get the dreamy glaze of memory to them.
"Ahem. Yes. Well. Ah,... She WAS a rather,... unusual creature. To be sure." Ben manages to stammer out without too much (further) loss of composure.
Although he cannot seem to meet Deanna's eyes, and his cheeks are definitely pink. He fiddles with his cravat for the 13th time.
Rexus splashes more of the bottle's contents into Ensis's cup with a nod and smile while he listens to the discussion. He cocks a slender, dark eyebrow at Ben and quickly turns away to examine, with some urgency, a small, mouldering stuffed owl that rests on a nearby bookshelf. He picks up the decoration and toys with it absently while again turning to Bertom, traces of a smile fading from his lips.
"A werewolf. That's what he said, yes. My great-grandsire was known to have quite the vivid imagination. As for letting go of the remnants of the family fortune, almost everything is gone already, burned to ashes. What remains of my parents is locked in my heart and mind, not in these trinkets." His thumb punctures the fragile skin of the owl's breast, releasing a trickle of sawdust, and he hastily returns it to the shelf. "Using these things to advance their hopes seems a fitting tribute to their memory. Besides," he adds more quietly, eyes downcast, "Not to criticize them, but perhaps if there had been a little less scholarship and conversation and a little more action, the Night of Ashes might have been averted, as well as all that has followed."
Yet in Valexia's magically enhanced sight, the chop has a gentle glow of power. She recognizes it as the traces of a rarely-used spell designed to hide the value of an item with an illusion of age and hard use (decrepit disguise, 18 charges).
Ensis raises the cup in a silent salute of thanks, then smiles, "I've not needed one on Ben's healing droughts so far, but I can attest to his skill at brewing... when he's not feeling too experimental."
He raises his cup toward Benjamin and adds with a chuckle, "Of course, since one of those louts did manage a lucky shot, I was almost forced to break new ground and try something new. Still, Dee doesn't look too worse for wear."
His jovial expression fades as he says soberly, "But I do agree that preparing healing droughts and elixirs to assist in battle would be a wise use of what it left of Rexus' legacy... though, Milani-willing, we can hope to be in a position to restore his birthright at the end of all this.".
He takes another sip before turning his attention fully to Rexus and the blade, his light tone returning, "Given the actual fiendish nightmare that Kintaro has become under Chelish rule, it's nice to have something so simple as a werewolf story to think about."
Valexia peers at the wand and says, "This is a rather... well, I wouldn't say useless. I'm sure we'll find a use for it. It makes nice things look like garbage." She tucks the wand away for later use if it comes up.
She looks towards Ensis and says, "I did not realize that you were so interested in werewolf stories. I'm sure I can think of some good ones sometime, but unfortunately, they'd all be complete fictions."
She pauses, adding, "Actually, I should have said fortunately. Werewolves are scary!"
"Scary? I don't know about all that. Simple shape-shifters with only one trick? To be sure it's a really GOOD trick, but still,... How effective can they really be? I mean with all of the mass you'd have to move,... around,... to produce the,... and provide,... hunh."
Ben's speech slows to a crawl, and an eyebrow crawls up towards his hairline as he begins doing calculations in his head. A moment later he fumbles out his battered notebook and begins hastily scribbling notations.
Bertom takes up the dagger testing it's weight "Silver seems oddly appropriate, a silver flash in the dark, just like our name sake." He gives it an experimental twirl "If you're certain you would part with this heirloom I'll wield it proudly in the name of the Silver Ravens." Looking around at the others and realizing he might be getting a little too caught up in all this joining the Silver Ravens stuff he adds "That is... unless one of you could put it to use."
Looking at Valexia and Ben talking about scary werewolves he grins "Well we won't have to worry about them now, we've got a bonafied werewolf slayin dagger... just missing a bonafied werewolf slayer to wield it."
"We have a bona fide dagger, at least," Rexus laughs. "Why not take what loose gold you need for healing potions, master brewer, and we'll save the signet against an emergency? It can serve as a badge of trust in the event I need to send you information via a messenger strange to you. But remember it can be sold in need."
He makes a circuit of the room, refilling glasses as he talks. "With luck, we will soon be heir to the material legacy of the original Silver Ravens. I am excited to see what might be in that old stable if my mother is correct -- and she usually is. Was."
He strides to the center of the company and raises his own refilled glass. "My friends, a toast: to the memory of the old Silver Ravens and a brave start to the new! The Silver Ravens!" He downs his drink and hurls the glass into the cold fireplace, where it shatters.
"The Silver Ravens."
Ben raises his own glass, downs the contents in one large gulp, (Taking a moment to savor the burn of the liqueur), and with a nod, his glass follows their hosts into the fireplace.
Ensis raises his glass, repeating, "The Silver Ravens.", then follows suit, tossing the glass into the hearth.
"The Silver Ravens...." she raises the glass and sips at the rest of the potent beverage; before with a slight tilt of the head following the lead of the others and tossing it into the hearth. 'Well our rebellion starts with an act of chaos!'
Valexia pours herself more because she is not convinced that she wants to stop drinking quite yet, says, "To the Silver Ravens! And to my career." She tilts back the glass and drinks the entirety of the contents and then throws it into the hearth as well. "I hope you have more glasses."
She is actually starting to sway a little. She approaches Deanna and puts a hand on her friend's shoulder, "Let me try something..." She mumbles something under her breath and then laughs softly.
Dee picks up the laughter, perhaps brought on by the alcohol after the blood-loss or the presence of the chuckling charismatic singer. "Much better. Thanks, that was.... unexpected." she chuckles throatily.
"We could go back to my apartment for a couple more drinks if Lord Victocora wants us gone." She adds. 'Actually a discrete drunken party is a half-decent cover for why we've met here, if anyone is watching.'
"You are welcome to stay as long as you like, Signorina," their host bows amiably, "Take time to plan or simply let the streets clear. Or even buy a book!"
Ensis smiles, "It would be most uncharacteristic of me to refuse an offer for drinks at a lovely lady's apartment... but I do think that letting the streets clear might be the wiser course."
Bertom shrugs and follows suit drinking down his glass and chucking it into the fireplace watching it splinter into sharp shards "Silver Ravens!" Considering the mess he wonders if the friend that let them in here would regret having done so.
"I'd agree it would probably be better if we waited for a bit, if we could slip away unseen that would be best. Though the offer is tempting."
Valexia sits back down, stretching her arms out above her head, "I'd be fine to look at books and drink for now, it seems like it's going to be a crazy night out there, I may as well pick up something to put me to sleep after all this excitement. What do you recommend that is interesting, but not too interesting?"