Kroft smiles at Teodor, though it's not a particularly happy smile. "I'm familiar with your sister, but--for the sake of efficiency and for the sake of her safety--I'd rather not involve someone from the recently disbanded Sable Company. But you can rest assured I'll keep an eye on her while you're in Old Korvosa."
When Callie and Korriban lay out their positions, Kroft nods, though she looks troubled. "I do suggest you use whatever means you can--without me--to get into Old Korvosa. The good news is that the Gray Maidens are looking to keep people in, not out, so it shouldn't be inordinately difficult. Once you're on the island, it's another story...from Vencarlo's early reports, it sounds like there's some new power on the island, a figure calling himself the 'Emperor of Old Korvosa.' Who this might be, I can only guess, but he can't be a tame or friendly figure.
"As for Vencarlo and your talk of revolution...there may come a time for that, but I hope that we can avoid unnecessary bloodshed. I suggest you start searching at Vencarlo's home, which is just next to the Academy. If you don't find any clues there...well, you may have to meet with the new 'Emperor.' And as much as I want to find my friend...if Seneschal Kalepopolis is in fact still alive, finding him should be the priority. Not only might the man have insights into Ileosa's new powers, but his return might give us a legal way to wrest away some of her power, if not remove her from the throne entirely."
She pulls the coffer in the middle of the table to her and unlatches it, opening it and turning it toward all of you. "The treasury here at the Citadel is running dangerously low, but I wanted to give you these--I've kept them back in case there was a need for a clandestine mission like this, and I'm glad I did. Please, take them and put them to good use." Inside the coffer are several small potion vials, all labeled, and two wands, each tagged with a removable label.
potion of cure serious wounds x4
potion of lesser restoration x3
wand of invisibility (10 charges)
wand of cure moderate wounds (30 charges)
"Do you have any final questions?"
It's been a long journey into Korvosa, and you're not sure that you should be glad it's at an end. The city isn't what you expected, either from your general dealings with people of all sorts, or from your old friend Vencarlo Orsini's descriptions.
Making your way through the streets after you arrived, you found yourself the subject of unfriendly gazes and the occasional hostile mutterings. It's clear that some people, at least, regard Shoanti men with suspicion--but then, the entire town seems to be on edge. You've heard rumors that the city has had a difficult time holding itself together in the aftermath of the king's death and a recent plague, and they certainly seem to be true.
Vencarlo told you that he lived in "Old Korvosa, the northern island," so after you entered the city you attempted to make your way there. But every person you asked about how to get from this main island onto that one shook their head and hurried away, or muttered something about "quarantine." When you finally found a bridge--a massive stone edifice--it was guarded by heavily armored women in blank gray helms, who sternly informed you that Old Korvosa was off-limits, no one allowed in or out due to the plague. It seems insane to you, but apparently they've left their own people on the other side of the bridge abandoned! Given the fighters' numbers and clear air of authority, though, you thought better than to argue with them on your first day in town.
Wandering the streets afterward and making inquiries about where you might learn more, you finally directed by a kindly older Varisian woman to the Korvosan Guard--who apparently are a different force than the women who guarded the bridge. The Varisian woman refers to the first group as the "Gray Maidens," shaking her head. "Bad news, that lot," she whispers. "Cruel and vindictive--and entirely serving the queen, they know they don't work for us!" She points you to the Guards' citadel, which is at the southern end of the island, and gives you a friendly wave as you head off.
By the time you arrive, it's closing in on evening. The gates of the massive stone fortress, though, seem strangely unguarded and ajar. When you enter, you don't see anyone at first--what kind of city guard is this? Wandering through the yard and into a gallery adjoining it, you take in the small piles of rubbish and the dust adorning many surfaces, your uneasiness growing. This might be the official guard of the city, but they've clearly fallen on hard times.
You've been wandering around the yard for several minutes when a weary-looking woman emerges from one of the galleries, clearly on her way to somewhere else, and startles when she sees you. "Hey! You! What are you doing here? You need help?"
"Hey! You! What are you doing here? You need help?"
Matoska sizes the woman up a moment, and says gravely, "Yes, though that appears to be common here. I was told the 'city guard' could help, but I assumed they meant an organization, not a singular person."
When Callie and Korriban lay out their positions, Kroft nods, though she looks troubled. "I do suggest you use whatever means you can--without me--to get into Old Korvosa. The good news is that the Gray Maidens are looking to keep people in, not out, so it shouldn't be inordinately difficult. Once you're on the island, it's another story...from Vencarlo's early reports, it sounds like there's some new power on the island, a figure calling himself the 'Emperor of Old Korvosa.' Who this might be, I can only guess, but he can't be a tame or friendly figure."
Korriban smirks. "Emperor of Old Korvosa? Really? No doubt some crime lord with delusions of grandeur. So... Bavarsi?"
"As for Vencarlo and your talk of revolution...there may come a time for that, but I hope that we can avoid unnecessary bloodshed. I suggest you start searching at Vencarlo's home, which is just next to the Academy. If you don't find any clues there...well, you may have to meet with the new 'Emperor.' And as much as I want to find my friend...if Seneschal Kalepopolis is in fact still alive, finding him should be the priority. Not only might the man have insights into Ileosa's new powers, but his return might give us a legal way to wrest away some of her power, if not remove her from the throne entirely."
Korriban nods. "Then we'll find them both. It's no problem."
She pulls the coffer in the middle of the table to her and unlatches it, opening it and turning it toward all of you. "The treasury here at the Citadel is running dangerously low, but I wanted to give you these--I've kept them back in case there was a need for a clandestine mission like this, and I'm glad I did. Please, take them and put them to good use." Inside the coffer are several small potion vials, all labeled, and two wands, each tagged with a removable label.
Korriban smiles at the contents of the coffer. "Well, well. Look at the new toys we get to play with." He takes one of the potions of healing and tucks it into his pocket. When Kroft asks if they have any other questions, Korriban shakes his head. None that I can think of right now."
"I've got that cure wand we found in the dungeon, so Teo you should probably take that one. Lantressa, you want the invisibility wand?" Callie takes a potion of cure serious for herself. "Also, I've got one of those restoration potions, and since there's three of them, each of you should take one unless you've already got some."
Lantressa went tot he meeting with Kroft in curiosity at what the woman wanted if nothing else. The way it had all been going lately she'd almost considered leaving and getting out of dodge but she had built something of a life here, had no where else to go, and more importantly couldn't leave her friends to face this and suffer alone. As the woman told them what was going on and what she wanted Lantressa felt worry, a lot of worry, over what was happening in Old Korvosa where she had lived these last years.
As Kroft detailed the mission she had for them Lantressa began to think through how to pull it off. She was right that getting in would likely not be hard, but getting out would be, and finding the people they needed to find might be a challenge. She thought the name of Orisini was familiar for some reason but it was like a half remembered dream and she couldn't recall why. She knew that there were some people they could go to for information once they were inside but she wanted to keep that to herself for now as Kroft simply didn't need to know. When the coffer was brought out Lantressa looked through it and was delighted at what she found. These would help a great deal and a plan began to form in her head.
Looking up at Kroft again Lantress ashed, "What kind of things are in place to keep people from getting out of Old Korvosa, havve you heard of any magics that might be used to, say, reveal invisible people or to cancel someone simply flying out?"
Kroft shakes her head in response to Lantressa's question. "As far as I know the Gray Maidens have no access to magic of that order, thankfully," she says. "They've destroyed all the bridges but the Jeggare, and barricaded that one. They're patrolling the river too, at least occasionally, but if you move at night you probably stand a decent chance of getting it under their noses. And I imagine they patrol the north shore far less frequently, since the mainland there isn't part of Korvosa proper. So if you angle that way you might be able to slip out!"
Assuming that there are no other burning questions, Kroft waits until you've divvied up the contents of the coffer and shakes each of your hands. "Thank you for undertaking this task, my friends. As I'm sure you know, it is dangerous...but the fate of many more depend on it. Korvosa will thank you for it one day, I feel certain." She accompanies you as you leave the warded room and start for the exit. Grau Soldado falls in alongside you, and it seems that it's time to start on your journey...until a young woman in a Private's uniform shows up, looking slightly flustered.
"I'm sorry, Field Marshall, but there's, uh...there's a...big...man, here to see you. He's looking for the guard for something? But he seems, uh, kind of like a tough customer, so..."
Frowning, Kroft gestures her aside and precedes you into the yard, where you find a muscular man--Shoanti, to judge by his tattoos and his gear--waiting patiently.
A few moments later you hear footsteps, and when you turn toward the gallery you see the young woman emerge with a half-dozen others: at the lead are two people in the uniform of this Guard, a man and a woman. He is quiet and watchful, while she--not much older--bears an obvious air of command (and the signs of exhaustion that accompany it). The four at the rear are a strangely motley assortment, though: a young Varisian man carrying rapier and dagger, a rather dirty middle-aged man dressed in threadbare, tattered clothes, a betailed woman in a long cloak and provocative neckline, and a confident young woman with a sword and a rich blue cape. The leading guard regard you warily for a moment, but then speaks.
As Matoska turns his gaze on Kroft and the party, the Field Marshall regards him coolly before breaking the silence. "Greetings, stranger, from a stranger," she says formally. "I'm Cressida Kroft, Field Marshall of the Korvosan Guard. What can we do for you? Private Lilawin here thought you might need help."
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When the footsteps approach, Matoska brushes back his black cloak with its beads and feathers to show that this hands are empty--not that it makes much difference for him, he muses.
The strangeness of the group behind Kroft actually reassures him; the faceless uniformity of those women at the bridge was unsettling, it was good to see the Guard here had a sense of independence in its members.
"Commander Kroft, good, I was told to seek you out. I'm looking for a man named Orsini. When I last knew him he lived on the island, Old Korvosa, but the bridge is guarded and your city appears to have left its people there to die of plague. Can you help me get that island?"
Teodor stops scratching an itch on his back. "Well well well! What an interesting coincidence! It just so happens I know some other folks looking for Orsini!" Teodor approaches the new guy and starts dramatically sniffing him. "Why are you searching for an old fart with a little sword, hmmm?"
Callie figured someone dressed openly in Shoanti garb was not going to be sympathetic to the Queen or those in her service. She smiles at the big man.
"We could also start with, 'hi, what's your name?' I'm Callie, and this is Teodor, Lantressa, and Korriban."
Kroft starts visibly when Matoska says that he's looking for Orsini, and glares slightly at Teodor's theatrics, muttering something inaudible under her breath. Aloud, she says firmly, "If you mean Vencarlo Orsini, he does live in Old Korvosa. Unfortunately that while district is under an indefinite quarantine...I'll let the comment about letting the people die pass unremarked. No one can get into--or, more importantly, out of--Old Korvosa, and it's a rough place at the best of times. So I'm afraid you've come here at a rather bad time. Is there somewhere I can tell Orsini to meet you, should the quarantine be lifted?"
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Perhaps a bit too independent, this one. Regarding Teodor evenly for a moment, Matoska decides to ignore him and turns to Callie. "I'm Matoska Tekeni, emissary of the Shundar-Quah. We heard that the king had passed and that his young queen now ruled Korvosa. My people have not had an easy history with yours, and we hoped that a change in rulership would provide an opportunity for a fresh start, to end the encroachments on our lands." His mouth quirks in a grim smile. "It appears we were mistaken, the city stinks of fear and imminent violence, and does not appear to be in a diplomatic mood."
When Kroft mentions waiting, the Shoanti warrior shakes his head. "I cannot afford to wait, I fear things here have gotten worse rather than better. I trust Orsini and need his help. I must find him. Who are these other 'folks' seeking him? Are they enemies of his?" Matoska's eyes narrow and his jaw tightens. "Is it you? Are you seeking him as well? Why?"
"I doubt you'll have much luck with this new queen. She orders the deaths of her own subjects and had a superdisease released among us as well. They say she cavorts with devils; "they" say a lot of things, though. One thing is sure, she's evil. It was she who cut Old Korvosa off, and her faceless guardswomen love only her. As for Orsini, we are no enemies of his. The young virgin boy here knows him quite well, in fact."
"It's good to meet you Matoska. What makes you think Orsini could help you? Forgive the questions," she shoots a look at Kroft, "But as you said yourself times are not looking good. What's worth the risk of plowing into Gray Maidens to find a fencing instructor?"
Kroft shakes her head in response to Lantressa's question. "As far as I know the Gray Maidens have no access to magic of that order, thankfully," she says. "They've destroyed all the bridges but the Jeggare, and barricaded that one. They're patrolling the river too, at least occasionally, but if you move at night you probably stand a decent chance of getting it under their noses. And I imagine they patrol the north shore far less frequently, since the mainland there isn't part of Korvosa proper. So if you angle that way you might be able to slip out!"
Korriban smiles. "Well, that's a good sign! Just slip in and out and no one's the wiser!"
Assuming that there are no other burning questions, Kroft waits until you've divvied up the contents of the coffer and shakes each of your hands. "Thank you for undertaking this task, my friends. As I'm sure you know, it is dangerous...but the fate of many more depend on it. Korvosa will thank you for it one day, I feel certain."
Korriban smiles and nods as he shakes Kroft's hand. "It's no problem, boss. Anything to help."
She accompanies you as you leave the warded room and start for the exit. Grau Soldado falls in alongside you, and it seems that it's time to start on your journey...until a young woman in a Private's uniform shows up, looking slightly flustered.
"I'm sorry, Field Marshall, but there's, uh...there's a...big...man, here to see you. He's looking for the guard for something? But he seems, uh, kind of like a tough customer, so..."
Frowning, Kroft gestures her aside and precedes you into the yard, where you find a muscular man--Shoanti, to judge by his tattoos and his gear--waiting patiently.
Korriban is rather curious about the developments and decides to follow. Korriban is surprised to see a Shoanti standing in the yard. It was certainly the most unexpected thing. He's even more surprised to hear that he's looking for Vencarlo. He lets Callie and Teodor talk.
"I doubt you'll have much luck with this new queen. She orders the deaths of her own subjects and had a superdisease released among us as well. They say she cavorts with devils; "they" say a lot of things, though. One thing is sure, she's evil. It was she who cut Old Korvosa off, and her faceless guardswomen love only her. As for Orsini, we are no enemies of his. The young virgin boy here knows him quite well, in fact."
Korriban groans at Teodor's comment in his direction. "Teodor. Stop. Just... stop." He walks up to the now identified Matoska and looks him up and down. "Despite what Teodor says, I do know Master Vencarlo. I'm his student. One of his best, if I say so myself. I'm definitely going to Old Korvosa to help him. But, I have to ask, how do you know Master Vencarlo?"
"That's not what despite means ... "
The fact that there were no magical means preventing entry or exit was a relief and Lantressa thought she might have a way across. She followed as they all made to leave and contemplated her idea.When they ran into the new arrival she stopped and looked him over.
Lantressa was wearing her long cloak wich hid most of her tail, though it's lashing made it somewhat visible as she walked. Her dress had a rather short hemline, barely mid thigh, and a very low cut that was only barely within the bounds of acceptable. She had long blue-black hair reaching her waist that was worn loose and a pair of short horns jutting from her temples. Her eyes were a dull red glow and her fingernails looked like they were made of some kind of sharp stone, obsidian on one hand and ruby colored on the other. She gave the newcomer a smile and spoke in a carefully controlled voice, "Lantressa, a pleasure to meet you." Her tone gave a variety of implications on what pleasure that might be.
"That's not what despite means ... "
Korriban hears what Teodor whispers and groans. "By the gods, I'm dumb sometimes..."
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Callie mutters quietly to Korriban. "Just young, Korriban. Don't be so hard on yourself, and I wouldn't take too seriously the words of a man who is allergic to baths."
"What's worth the risk of plowing into Gray Maidens to find a fencing instructor?"
Matoska shrugs. "I'm in hostile territory, and he's someone who can be trusted. That's worth a great deal and there is no one else."
"...I'm his student. One of his best, if I say so myself. I'm definitely going to Old Korvosa to help him. But, I have to ask, how do you know Master Vencarlo?"
The Shoanti's mouth quirks at the young man's boast. "He and I trained together for a time, while I was fostered with the Tamiir-Quah. He was not yet 'master' anything then. When he's been found, you should ask him about the drubbings he received from Howling Matoska."
Lantressa's greeting is met by a polite but guarded nod of Matoska's head. "The pleasure is mine." One of the fiend-blooded, I think.
Turning back to Commander Kroft, he offers his best reassuring smile. "Commander, if your people here are already intent on locating Vencarlo I would accompany them. I must ask you though: what do you seek him for? Is he wanted by the Queen? You do not strike me as friends of hers."
Kroft's mouth hardens into a line. "Ultimately, Howling Matoska, I serve the city," she says firmly. "But no, Vencarlo is not wanted by the Crown. He's a good friend of mine, one I would not see harmed. But there's been no word from him for some time, and I'm concerned for his safety, trapped as he is in Old Korvosa."
She turns to the rest of the group. "As to the idea of this stranger accompanying you...I can't say I recommend it. I'm naturally wary of unexpected and convenient allies, though he seems to be telling the truth. But all of you have proven that you work best when left to your own, unorthodox methods. I'll not interfere if you choose to bring Matoska here along. Soldado, a final request: please accompany them until they've got a secure way into Old Korvosa. If they decide not to bring along the Shoanti, make sure he takes his leave politely. And thank you. For everything."
Grau gives Kroft a small bow and then, to your surprise, unbuckles his Guardsman brooch and hands it to her. "Thank you, Field Marshall. It's been an honor."
Kroft accepts the badge, gives him a nod, and turns again to the five of you. "I have tasks to which I must attend. Gods speed you in your search; be careful, be courageous, and be smart. It's unclear what the situation on the ground is, and I don't want to lose any more friends. Come back to me or send a message when this is done, one way or another." She gives Matoska a stiff but respectful nod. "Welcome to Korvosa, master Matoska."
Then, saluting you all, she turns and heads back into the keep, the young private anxiously trotting after her. Leaving the five of you alone with Grau Soldado.
Callie mutters quietly to Korriban. "Just young, Korriban. Don't be so hard on yourself, and I wouldn't take too seriously the words of a man who is allergic to baths."
Korriban nods at Callie. "Thanks, Blue. Also, Teodor really isn't that bad."
The Shoanti's mouth quirks at the young man's boast. "He and I trained together for a time, while I was fostered with the Tamiir-Quah. He was not yet 'master' anything then. When he's been found, you should ask him about the drubbings he received from Howling Matoska."
Korriban scratches his chin in thought. 'Does Vencarlo really know this man? Did he really get beat by him?'
Kroft's mouth hardens into a line. "Ultimately, Howling Matoska, I serve the city," she says firmly. "But no, Vencarlo is not wanted by the Crown. He's a good friend of mine, one I would not see harmed. But there's been no word from him for some time, and I'm concerned for his safety, trapped as he is in Old Korvosa."
She turns to the rest of the group. "As to the idea of this stranger accompanying you...I can't say I recommend it. I'm naturally wary of unexpected and convenient allies, though he seems to be telling the truth. But all of you have proven that you work best when left to your own, unorthodox methods. I'll not interfere if you choose to bring Matoska here along. Soldado, a final request: please accompany them until they've got a secure way into Old Korvosa. If they decide not to bring along the Shoanti, make sure he takes his leave politely. And thank you. For everything."
Korriban smiles. "If this guy wants to follow us, that's fine. I have a feeling we'll need all the help we can get."
Grau gives Kroft a small bow and then, to your surprise, unbuckles his Guardsman brooch and hands it to her. "Thank you, Field Marshall. It's been an honor."
Kroft accepts the badge, gives him a nod, and turns again to the five of you. "I have tasks to which I must attend. Gods speed you in your search; be careful, be courageous, and be smart. It's unclear what the situation on the ground is, and I don't want to lose any more friends. Come back to me or send a message when this is done, one way or another." She gives Matoska a stiff but respectful nod. "Welcome to Korvosa, master Matoska."
Then, saluting you all, she turns and heads back into the keep, the young private anxiously trotting after her. Leaving the five of you alone with Grau Soldado.
Korriban is surprised by Grau's action. He nods at Kroft's advice. When she leaves, he turns to Grau. "What the h**l, man?! Why did you resign?! I thought that you liked being a member of the Guard?!"
Matoska shrugs. "I'm in hostile territory, and he's someone who can be trusted. That's worth a great deal and there is no one else."
The Shoanti's mouth quirks at the young man's boast. "He and I trained together for a time, while I was fostered with the Tamiir-Quah. He was not yet 'master' anything then. When he's been found, you should ask him about the drubbings he received from Howling Matoska."
Callie looks at Matoska. "Sir, with all due respect, this is not the time to be coy. There are very likely many powerful people who want US dead, and you can't expect us--" she pauses and looks at Korriban "--who are less likely to engage in as much youthful enthusiasm to trust you without a little more information. And if Orsini was the only one you trusted, that means you don't trust US, either. So that doesn't exactly fill me with good will. I don't want to risk my contacts to a potentially hostile outsider. Having trained with him isn't enough--I liked my swordsmanship trainer well enough but I'm not sure I'd defy a foreign blockade to get to him. What is so important that you have to do this here and now?"
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"And why should I trust you, who are as much strangers to me as I am to you? I have given as much information as I have received, Callie. I'm here to do what's best for my people, but the situation is far from what I thought it would be."
The Shoanti eyes the group for a long moment, expression thoughtful, before nodding as though coming to a decision. "Alright, as a gesture of good faith: I do not know if Orsini is even able to help me, but he is the only contact I have here. I am in sore need of allies and information, Callie--if the queen is wicked, I must know the nature of her evil. Clearly the city holds her in terror, but what are her designs beyond its walls? The Shoanti are not treated well here even in the best of times...I need to learn if this queen will make matters worse, allying with devils or Hellknights or any number of possible threats. And if diplomacy is not on the table...then perhaps assassination must be." He smiles mirthlessly. "That is a dangerous thing to say aloud, so I hope you will return the trust I've shown and explain what exactly it is you're up to?"
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"Oh ho! Bold words from a bold man! Gotta admire that, eh? Trust isn't easy, but I've been for killing this queen for ages! I like your style!"
Grau sighs at Korriban's outburst. "I did like my work as a Guardsman, Korriban. In fact, I do. But...well, I was going to tell you on our way out of here anyway." He spreads his hands, palms up. "You've seen how the city has been these last few months. It's a madhouse, between the riots, the plague, and the rumors swirling around about the queen. With Little Breeze caught up in all of that...well, it's made Tayce re-think her life here. Things are getting tough for Varisians without any money, and there's nothing that says we have to live here just because we always have. I don't think any of us like it--I don't want to leave my work, Tayce doesn't want to leave her community, and Brienne just doesn't want to move--but Tayce and I have decided that we're going to take Brienne out of here. People say that Magnimar is a kinder, more forgiving city than Korvosa...and I hope it's true. We're going to find out." He looks sad. "I love Korvosa, Korriban. But I love my family, especially Brienne, more. I can't stand by and watch them suffer."
"Now, what's the plan to get us out of here?"
Korriban listens to Matoska’s speech. He nods as he smiles. ’I think I’m starting to like this guy.’
When Teodor makes his comment, Korriban smirks and says, ”Teo, you would have been for killing the Queen even if this stuff wasn’t going on.”
When Grau gives his reasons for quitting, Korriban nods. ”That does make sense. Your family does come first. I wish you well. We’ll let you know when this is over in case you wish to move back. As for the plan, that depends. If the Maidens are allowing people to leave, then we leave through the gate. If not, then we may need to smuggle you guys out.”
"Nice speech, Matoska. You still didn't answer my question--what's the deal with Orsini? As it's been made clear to you here he's in trouble. Anything you know might help us find and protect him. We have the same goals there, don't we?"
"As for us we need to get into Old Korvosa to check on friends and loved ones who are trapped there because of the blockade. If I'm vague about that it's because it's not my loved ones who are trapped so it's not my place to speak about their circumstances in detail. Kroft wants us to check on Orsini while we are there."
She shifts and looks down at the floor, then up again. "Look, I'm sorry if I'm coming off as too hard. Here's where I'm coming from: Kroft is someone I owe--I don't like how stiff necked she can be but even I have to admit her loyalty and devotion to her duty has done a lot of good for Korvosa in these difficult times. She has taken a lot of risks to protect us and innocent people caught up in this mess. And SHE didn't want you to come with us, so that makes me feel like I'm betraying a friend if I let you come. Yes, she said it was up to us, but I respect her opinion. I need to know why I should disregard my friend and leader's reservations--and also risk YOUR life in the process, as where we're headed will doubtless be dangerous. Do you understand?"
Callie answers Grau. "I have a contact who owes me a favor who can get us in. I'll go touch base with him and once I found out, tell anyone coming where to meet."
Grau nods. "Sounds good to me. And don't worry about us, Korriban. Nobody's stopping anyone going in or out of the main gates...not yet, anyway. Tayce doesn't even live in the city proper, so we'll just head out from her home!"
Glancing at Matoska, he adds sympathetically, "I understand your hesitation, Callie. But you should know that as long as I've known her, Kroft has always had a suspicious, conservative edge. If she really thought bringing this fellow along was a bad idea, she'd have said so...she just can't bring herself to suggest it."
"Well if everyone else is for it, I'll say no more. I'll see how arrangements are coming along and circle back with you at the fortune teller's house." Callie moves to depart.
"Well, we lost that other large man who was good at killing. Might as well try this one out. He already makes more sense when he talks."
Callie chuckles. "You make a fair point, Teo.'"
"You still didn't answer my question--what's the deal with Orsini?"
Matoska cocks his head quizzically. "I did answer your question. Orsini is someone I know here in the city, and I don't truly know if he can help me, but he is where I've chosen to start. There is nothing more to it, Korvosa is a rushing river of confusion and fear--Orsini is a branch."
"Might as well try this one out. He already makes more sense when he talks."
Matoska inclines his head towards Teo. "I'm glad to hear it, cooperation suits both our aims better." He smiles, his manner suggesting everything is settled. "So what is the plan?"
"What's a 'plan'? We tend to just wing it. 'The Lord makes a fool of the man who plans for the future,' as it is said in the True Faith. Speaking of which, Mr. Tekeni, have you heard the Good Word?"
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"Unless the word is 'victory' or 'whiskey' or 'feast' you may keep it, friend. Would a rowboat by night work? How tight is the cordon?"
Grau nods. "Sounds good to me. And don't worry about us, Korriban. Nobody's stopping anyone going in or out of the main gates...not yet, anyway. Tayce doesn't even live in the city proper, so we'll just head out from her home!"
Korriban nods. "Sounds good, then. It was a pleasure to work with you, Sergeant Grau."
"Well if everyone else is for it, I'll say no more. I'll see how arrangements are coming along and circle back with you at the fortune teller's house." Callie moves to depart.
Korriban nods. "Of course. Please let us know how it's going. I want to get in there as soon as possible."
"Well, we lost that other large man who was good at killing. Might as well try this one out. He already makes more sense when he talks."
Callie chuckles. "You make a fair point, Teo.'"
Korriban chuckles. "Yeah. He does have a point." His face then goes into dread. "Oh gods. Teodor has a point. I think the end is coming faster than expected."
"You still didn't answer my question--what's the deal with Orsini?"Matoska cocks his head quizzically. "I did answer your question. Orsini is someone I know here in the city, and I don't truly know if he can help me, but he is where I've chosen to start. There is nothing more to it, Korvosa is a rushing river of confusion and fear--Orsini is a branch."
Korribans shrugs. "Makes sense. Best to go find someone you know first when asking questions about what's going on."
"Might as well try this one out. He already makes more sense when he talks."Matoska inclines his head towards Teo. "I'm glad to hear it, cooperation suits both our aims better." He smiles, his manner suggesting everything is settled. "So what is the plan?"
Korriban smiles and pats him on the back. "Agreed then. Welcome to the team. We'll have to put you through initiation. But, don't worry. All team members get sweet rolls every Fireday."'
"What's a 'plan'? We tend to just wing it. 'The Lord makes a fool of the man who plans for the future,' as it is said in the True Faith. Speaking of which, Mr. Tekeni, have you heard the Good Word?"
Korriban chuckles. "Yeah. We seem to be the types of guys who just through things at the wall, see what sticks, and then stab at them." Korriban watches as Teodor's evangelizing doesn't work. He turns to Matoska and says, "I scouted out the bridge. The cordon's tighter than a Gray Maiden's armor. No way we'll be able to get in through there. However, there's a chance that they don't patrol the north shore of Old Korvosa. We might be able to slip in there. As for a rowboat, that might be the plan. We'd have to hear from Blue's contacts." He then says, "And it's too bad you're not interested in Teo's 'Good Word'. I have an alternative for you. Not some old frowning moon, like Teodor's fond of. But three lovely ladies. But, since you're not interested..." He shrugs.
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"We get sweet rolls?!? I've been eating old candles!"
"We get sweet rolls?!? I've been eating old candles!"
Korriban looks at Teodor. "Old candles? That's not good. Those are awfully bad for your teeth and stomach. Also, those will spoil your appetite."
"Have an apple, if your teeth aren't too soft." Callie teases, and pulls an apple out of her haversack and offers it to Teo.
"An apple a day keeps the evil plague doctors away..." Teodor devours the apple.
Korriban looks at Callie. "Teodor has a point. Could you spare another apple?"
Callie offers and passes out apples to all who want them. And then she should probably go meet Derrick the Rat.
Leaving the Citadel as the sun starts to sink in the west, you split up: Callie to go meet Derrick the Rat, and the rest of you to take care of any last-minute errands. There's still about an hour or so of daylight left, so if you hustle, you should be able to purchase any supplies you want to purchase (or run other errands)! Grau accompanies the group that's running errands, while Callie strikes out alone.
Callie finds Derrick in a bar not far from the docks. He drains a mug of ale as she describes what she needs, and grimaces. "Yeh've got a tough request, but it's doable. I've managed to hear from one or two people who've made it outta Old Korvosa in the last week, though, and they say it's gone belly-up in there." He spits onto the sawdust covered floor. "Ain't one to stop you, though, if yer sure. And I'd just as soon pay off the debt I owe! So, here's how we do this: I'll contact one o' my boys, and you bring the whole lot o' yer friends who're going to Thief Camp tonight, late. There's a tavern there called the Noisy Moose that closes at the third bell after midnight. Meet us there at closin' time, and we'll take yeh up the river and put you in at the southern side of Old Dock. It's closer to the seat o' this 'Emperor' than yeh probably want, but it's the best we c'n do. Go west an' we run the risk of meetin' the Gray Maidens, an' continuin' around yer no better until yeh end up having to scale the cliffs. So Old Dock it is...sound like a plan?"
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Callie nods. "I know it's a risk, but we've important business that's worth it. We'll meet you at the Noisy Moose. So, how's business besides?" She turns toward some lighter conversation to distract any listeners, and after an adequate amount of chatter, pays Derrick's tab and her own, and returns to Zellara's to tell the group of the plan.
Once the party is assembled she addresses them:
"A group of smugglers have got us a way in. We'll meet them in Thief Camp at the Noisy Moose at closing time--so don't wear your nicest valuables openly. They'll get us up the river to the Old Dock. Derrick's noted that the Old Dock is close to the operations of this 'Emperor' we've heard about. But I'd rather risk proximity to this man than to the Gray Maidens." She pauses. "We'll be up late, so I recommend getting a nap now while you can."
Callie offers and passes out apples to all who want them. And then she should probably go meet Derrick the Rat.
Korriban takes an apple and eats it, enjoying the taste.
Leaving the Citadel as the sun starts to sink in the west, you split up: Callie to go meet Derrick the Rat, and the rest of you to take care of any last-minute errands. There's still about an hour or so of daylight left, so if you hustle, you should be able to purchase any supplies you want to purchase (or run other errands)! Grau accompanies the group that's running errands, while Callie strikes out alone.
Korriban looks at the others. "So, what do you guys want to do? Escort Grau and his family out of the city?"
Once the party is assembled she addresses them:
"A group of smugglers have got us a way in. We'll meet them in Thief Camp at the Noisy Moose at closing time--so don't wear your nicest valuables openly. They'll get us up the river to the Old Dock. Derrick's noted that the Old Dock is close to the operations of this 'Emperor' we've heard about. But I'd rather risk proximity to this man than to the Gray Maidens." She pauses. "We'll be up late, so I recommend getting a nap now while you can."
Korriban nods as he removes his necklace and rings. "Got it. Hopefully, we can sneak away from this 'Emperor' once we get in. I just hope my family, Vencarlo, and Lantressa's friends are safe."
Derrick picks up Callie's cue and chats amiably about how "business" is finally starting to pick up again after the events of the last few months. He gives you a casual wave of a salute when you pay his tab, and promises to meet you later.
Grau raises his eyebrow at Korriban's suggestion. "Uh, Korriban, Tayce and I live outside the city proper, remember? And we're not leaving today, in any case. I'll see you on your way tonight, and then...well, hopefully we'll catch up in Magnimar sometime soon."
That night, all five of you meet Derrick the Rat outside the Noisy Moose, a small and extremely seedy-looking pub in the Varisain neighborhood of Thief Camp outside of the city itself. The night is dark, cold, and cloudless, with a quarter-moon shining down onto the streets. Derrick, who seems like he may not be entirely feigning his slight inebriation, seems taken aback by your motley group.
"Well, if this is the gang...let's get goin', eh?" he asks. "No need fer the rest o' you to know my name, and no need fer me to know yours. Follow me..." Weaving slightly, he leads you to the nearby docks, where a long rowboat waits, a dark figure seated in the prow.
Following silently, Matoska pulls his wyvern-skull mask down over his face and pulls his heavy cloak around himself to conceal as much of his skin as possible. He keeps a careful lookout for danger, or whether they're being followed.
Before leaving, Callie would just leave word with her friend Marga that she and her friends are off on a venture and that if she doesn't hear from her for a few days, not to worry and she will not be alone. She may refill her sack of apples. :)
"Oh, we get to be sailors! I wish I still had the sailor suit from when I was a wee lad. Too bad I hocked it for shiver years ago."
Derrick gives Teodor a bit of a sideways glance at his comment, but beckons you all on and steps onto the rowboat. There's another man there, swaddled in a dark cloak, and he gives you all a silent nod as Derrick counts you all one last time to make sure no one's fallen behind. "Arright then, off we go..." The man in the prow shoves off, and he and Derrick take up the oars.
For several minutes your escorts row you down the river. You're moving with the current, so the boat travels at an appreciable clip--but still, you feel exposed on the open water. As the massive stone outline of North Bridge looms ahead of you, Derrick passes his oar to the other man and crawls forward. "Hunker down an' hold on tight," he whispers. "I hate this part. But the man knows his business..."
As the boat comes closer and closer to the bridge, the boatman fights with his oars. He's strongly muscled, but it's clear--from the struggle in his movements as much as from the increasing speed you can feel from the boat--that he's having a hard time keeping the vessel under control. He glances repeatedly over his shoulder as the bridge gets nearer and nearer, adjusting the boat's course each time, and finally, at the last minute, ships the oars and throws himself backward, grabbing the gunwales with his hands to steady himself.
The current sucks you with a roar between the massive stone pilings of North Bridge. It feels for a second as though those huge walls are closing in around you (in reality, the closer wall is still probably several feet away). But you're going fast enough now, as the river pours through this artificial narrows, that you know if you were to hit one of those pilings, the boat would be splinters. You're also going fast enough that when you shoot out the far side of the bridge, spinning like a top in the current, you make it a good few hundred yards down the river before Derrick and the boatman manage to right your course.
"Alright, like I said, we're bringin' you in to Old Dock now," Derrick says. He seems more cheerful now that (presumably) the riskiest part of the venture is over with. "Shouldn't be too many people in the streets, but yeh never know. I'd keep yer heads down if I were you--rumors are that this 'Emperor' is a nasty character, and most o' the street toughs're answering to him now. Easy does it..."
About half an hour later, he and his silent partner have managed to put in at an abandoned dock on the tip of Endrin Isle. They hold the boat steady while you disembark, and Derrick shakes Callie's hand. "I wish yeh luck, Cobalt, crazy though yeh may be," he says, shaking his head. "We'll be off now, an' I'll consider me debt discharged. The Gray Master keep yeh hidden from yer enemies, an' I hope to talk to you again soon." He gives the boat a gentle shove, and they rock out into the water, plying the oars until they fade from view in the night.
Turning, you face the narrow streets and alleys of Old Korvosa. This section of the city appears even more dilapidated and distressed than is usual, but otherwise is clearly inhabited--there are a few lights flickering from windows here and there. You can hear the occasional noise from deeper in the streets--a shout or cry, whether in fear or anger, you can't tell, or the slam of a door--but otherwise all is silent. It's 4:30 a.m. on the 9th of Lamashan, and you're on the far end of the island from Vencarlo's home. Where will you go?
"I'll be right back," the Shoanti murmurs as he moves towards a nearby alley. Facing away from the others, Matoska shifts, sniffing the air with a decidedly lupine snout for hints of plague, fear, anything that might be helpful to know even as his yellow wolf-eyes sweep the dimly lit alleyways.
Carefully shifting back to his human form he rejoins the others and offers anything he has picked up on.