thereal thom's (Inactive)

Game Master therealthom

"Huh," says Jeorik, as he plays over the priests exact words in his mind, "I believe you're here to secure a mirror. What I'd like to see is proof of ownership. I think it would be a pretty mess if people could just walk up and claim whatever property they wanted. What say you Keliwyn?"

"And what is your stake in this matter then friend Keliwyn," Jeorik asks the elf, "things are not as clear as one might wish them to be? Are you also an agent of Asmodeus?"

"An agent of Asmodeus? No, friend Jeorik. My people have little use for a diety who can make no distinction between strict adherence to order and the common good."

"Huh," says Jeorik, as he plays over the priests exact words in his mind, "I believe you're here to secure a mirror. What I'd like to see is proof of ownership. I think it would be a pretty mess if people could just walk up and claim whatever property they wanted. What say you Keliwyn?"

Keliwyn, perhaps because of the battle and the loss of his lady friend, is starting to develop a strong tone is his voice. "A mirror you say? What an extraordinary coincidence! There must be two on board, for my departed friend Selumie was helping transport the Mirror of Drethoro, a scrying mirror of great power which was lost to the Mierani in the fall of Celwynvian. Please, tell us more about this mirror that belongs to the church, Inigo. Clearly, this must be a similar object of great value," Keliwyn says before his speech slows and his voice drops. "Unless," he continues, "There is only the one, and you are working from mistaken information, or perhaps were misled by your superiors for some benefit other than churches."

Jeorik laughs.

"Is everyone after a mirror? They must be in high demand here in Korvosa."

Jeorik shakes his head and waits to see how this will play out between the elf and the priest.

"An agent of Asmodeus? No, friend Jeorik. My people have little use for a diety who can make no distinction between strict adherence to order and the common good."

Inigo bristles and tightend the grip on his mace, perhaps head-smashing rather than diplomacy would have been more expedient and appropriate. But his charge is to recover the mirror and these men have implicitly confirmed it is on board. Radavel, I was comfortable changing Inigo's tack to trying to cut a deal, but now they're picking on the big A. Help me out here, I am not comfortable NPCing such a potentially sensitive area.

"Huh," says Jeorik, as he plays over the priests exact words in his mind, "I believe you're here to secure a mirror. What I'd like to see is proof of ownership. I think it would be a pretty mess if people could just walk up and claim whatever property they wanted. What say you Keliwyn?"

Keliwyn, perhaps because of the battle and the loss of his lady friend, is starting to develop a strong tone is his voice. "A mirror you say? What an extraordinary coincidence! There must be two on board, for my departed friend Selumie was helping transport the Mirror of Drethoro, a scrying mirror of great power which was lost to the Mierani in the fall of Celwynvian. Please, tell us more about this mirror that belongs to the church, Inigo. Clearly, this must be a similar object of great value," Keliwyn says before his speech slows and his voice drops. "Unless," he continues, "There is only the one, and you are working from mistaken information, or perhaps were misled by your superiors for some benefit other than churches."

Inigo thinks carefully.

"I will caution you not to utter words in direct defamation of the First Lord."

"As to ownership, we have ample evidence at the temple. We can make it worth it your while to cooperate. I don't have to draw a picture on what would happen if the Church views your efforts as counter-productive."

"I don't have to draw a picture on what would happen if the Church views your efforts as counter-productive."

"It might help," says Jeorik, "I'm new to Korvosa. Surely your not suggesting that the church of Asmodeus would do...," he pauses, "anything illegal? But surely you cannot mind the fact that I would like to see the evidence first."

Jeorik thinks a moment and decides, as usual, that candor and honesty might speed the proceedings, "Besides which, I must confess in all honesty, there is a mirror on board, but it was being transported at the behest of the elven woman of Keliwyn's acquaintance. It was not however being transported as merchandise, not being listed in the manifest, but rather, as such, must be considered as a piece of personal luggage. The Captain did not include it with her minor personal effects because it was so obviously more valuable. I would be inclined to think it should go to her legal heirs so that they might decide what to do with it."

OOC: My natural inclination is to draw this out to gain as much information as possible, but the nature of PBP means that this conversation could go on for another couple months like this. Thus, the laying of the cards on the table. :D

"Do you wish the Church to have the entire ship quarantined pending charges against its owner and handlers? That can be done easily."

"Do you wish the Church to have the entire ship quarantined pending charges against its owner and handlers? That can be done easily."

"Sir!" says Jeorik stiffening visibly. He manages however to keep most of the anger from his voice when he says, "An honest man would have no need to threaten. He would produce the proof of his ownership and that would be the end of the matter. I notice, however, you have avoided answering Keliwyn's question nor have you refuted his potential claim to the property in question."

"Sir!" says Jeorik stiffening visibly. He manages however to keep most of the anger from his voice when he says, "An honest man would have no need to threaten. He would produce the proof of his ownership and that would be the end of the matter. I notice, however, you have avoided answering Keliwyn's question nor have you refuted his potential claim to the property in question."

"I am an impatient man. And in my experience, truth seldom counts as much as results. If you have the item then bring it to the Church and there you shall see your proof, otherwise whatever happens next shall be on your head."

"I do not make threats. I only state a fact."

[ Radavel, I was comfortable changing Inigo's tack to trying to cut a deal, but now they're picking on the big A. Help me out here, I am not comfortable NPCing such a potentially sensitive area.

Thom, how am I doing?

Jeorik feels a surge of anger but as he starts an angry retort, he stops himself.

"Impatience and anger are flaws of character, in my opinion," says Jeorik matter of factly, "And while I myself am a devout follower of Erastil, and perhaps am more in favor of patience than some, I never imagined the Prince of Darkness as the impatient type. And despite my obvious disagreements in matters of faith with the followers of the Infernal Prince, I also do not believe he is in favor of outright theft. Deception and trickery yes, theft...no. Keliwyn has at this point more of a claim to the mirror than you, though I would like more proof on his part as well, but until such time as you furnish proof of ownership, this matter is closed. You have three choices, make good your threats, leave or furnish proof."

Thom, how am I doing?

you're all doing great. I had no idea Jeorik would so stubbornly principalled. I had thought you would all cut a quick deal and go out for beers. This is too cool.

you're all doing great. I had no idea Jeorik would so stubbornly principalled. I had thought you would all cut a quick deal and go out for beers. This is too cool.

Glad you're enjoying it. Again, ooc, I'm actually open to resolving it quickly, but I think Inigo needs to learn the old saw about honey. :)

"I will caution you not to utter words in direct defamation of the First Lord."

"I mean no disrespect, and only state fact. Truth, Inigo, is an absolute defense to defamation," Keliwyn replies.

"As to ownership, we have ample evidence at the temple. We can make it worth it your while to cooperate. I don't have to draw a picture on what would happen if the Church views your efforts as counter-productive."

Jeorik feels a surge of anger but as he starts an angry retort, he stops himself. . . You have three choices, make good your threats, leave or furnish proof."

Keliwyn steps between Jeorik and Inigo and raises his hands. "Friends," he says, "and I do mean friends, for we have all now spilled blood together and have no doubt acquired a common enemy in Gaedren Lam, let us not come to blows over this."

"Inigo, I respect you, and although I am quite sure we are fundamentally very different people, I believe we can also be fast friends. I also believe we can resolve this matter without raising arms, as we are intelligent, reasonable men, so let us talk." Turning, Keliwyn calls out, "Captain, a bottle of wine, if you please, and have one of you crewman bring us the mirror." With that, he unbuckles his sword belt, drops it to the deck, and sits down cross-legged. He holds his hands out, suggesting the others join him "Darthen, you too, please, as I would value anyone's opinion that may help us resolve this impasse."

After he has the wine, Keliwyn takes a swig and passes the bottle. After a few more moments, when the mirror appears and is set to rest against the rail, he looks up. "Inigo, here is what I propose. As even a drunkard could tell that such a work of beauty was clearly of elven design, I would put it to you that on it's face, I have the better claim than your church. That said, here is what I'm willing to do. I suggest that, together, we place the mirror in a bank box, one of the sort that requires two keys to open. You can hold one key, and I the other. Now, knowing you as a man of strong faith who would not waiver from the law, I propose that you inquire with your superiors, or whoever it was that charged you with recovering the mirror, as to how the church acquired it, and by what right they lawfully claim it as theirs. It was lost to my own people in the fall of Celwynian, of which I will not now speak, and I suspect you might not like the answer your superiors give you, if they give you one at all. If, as I suspect, your church acquired it in some . . . unsavory manner, I would ask you to respect my people's lawful claim, and allow me to return it.

"What I am asking, Inigo, is for you to do no more that you are inclined to do, and that is to act in accordance with the precepts of your own diety. What say you?"

I saw this coming and have really been trying to find to avoid it. It was Keliwyn's plan to discreetly remove the mirror, as he was charged, without any confrontation. Now I'm trying to figure out how to get it done while giving everyone an out so they can all leave with some satisfaction, while also providing an excuse for continued interaction.

"Friend Keliwyn," says Jeorik, "I really have no personal interest in the mirror except that it goes to the one to whom it belongs. For the moment it is aboard my Uncle's ship, and though it is not his by right of purchase, nor do I fancy he knows aught of it, it is in his custody, so to speak. As his agent, if the two of you can reach an amiable solution, I am all the more happy to assist."

Darthen looks around towards the thugs and up the dock wondering how long they have before the guards are summoned. "Kelywin, I am honored you want me to sit in, but there are things that I need to find out before the guard comes and hauls these oafs off. Please forgive me."

He heads out to try and get whatever information from Nihls he can.

Not sure which skill check you would want to so I rolled the ones I figured would be relevant. I would think at this point intimidate would be it [ooc]and not because it was such a good roll :), but a good bluff that we would raise his brother may have worked as well, (to bad the roll didn't agree with me) gather info would be a longshot skill to use in this case. Either way please use which ever you feel would be best.

Bluff; Intimidate; Gather Info (1d20 2=4, 1d20 2=18, 1d20 6=24)

After getting whatever information he can from Nihls he heads back aboard. He spares a quick glance to the others, wondering if the war priest will cause any further problems, before heading down into the cabins to speak with Darvyl.

"Darvyl, what in the blazes are you doing dressed as one of those turds?" He checks on his bandages and tries to make sure he is as comfortable as possible.

Glad you're enjoying it. Again, ooc, I'm actually open to resolving it quickly, but I think Inigo needs to learn the old saw about honey. :)

But the Church has a vinegar franchise....

"Here is the deal, Master Keliwyn. We bring the mirror to the Church and you can plead your case there. The mirror is not an artifact of faith. Hence, my interest is only in seeing it presented to the Church as commanded."

Inigo grips his mace. "I have never failed to fulfill a command of the Church."

After getting whatever information he can from Nihls he heads back aboard. He spares a quick glance to the others, wondering if the war priest will cause any further problems, before heading down into the cabins to speak with Darvyl.

"Darvyl, what in the blazes are you doing dressed as one of those turds?" He checks on his bandages and tries to make sure he is as comfortable as possible.

Nihls is by turns loudly profane and mulishly silent. In neither mood is he communicative.

Darvyl, however, weaves down the gangplank to meet you on the dock during your interrogation. When accosted he answers coolly, "Well, a man's got to eat. And it did work out for you. You won't get anything out of Nihls here with Zven dead." He kicks the body. "Listen, Darthen, I thought these clowns were working for Fellstone, but they actually work for Gaedren Lamm. I know where he's holed up. Let me mend this wound a little and I'm going after him. Are you in?"

From the south comes the sound of a small squad of men marching quick-time. Undoubtedly, the Korvosan Guard will be on the scene soon.

"Here is the deal, Master Keliwyn. We bring the mirror to the Church and you can plead your case there. The mirror is not an artifact of faith. Hence, my interest is only in seeing it presented to the Church as commanded."

Inigo grips his mace. "I have never failed to fulfill a command of the Church."

Keliwyn stands. "So, you'll strike down an unarmed man to prove that an ancient artifact of the elven people really belongs to the Church of Asmodeus? That hardly sounds lawful, my friend. No, quite simply, we won't be taking the mirror back to the church. My compromise is reasonable, Inigo, and I offer it to you because I have no doubt of your piety. What you need to decide is whether the orders of your superiors and the church are in accord with the precepts of your Lord and his avowed interest in law. I put it to you that they are not, and what would you do, I wonder, if the two are not the same? What would you choose - to follow your god or to follow the church, regardless of what you've been ordered to do? Either way, I suggest you decide quickly. If the guard arrives, the decision may well be taken out of our hands."

Darvyl, however, weaves down the gangplank to meet you on the dock during your interrogation. When accosted he answers coolly, "Well, a man's got to eat. And it did work out for you. You won't get anything out of Nihls here with Zven dead." He kicks the body. "Listen, Darthen, I thought these clowns were working for Fellstone, but they actually work for Gaedren Lamm. I know where he's holed up. Let me mend this wound a little and I'm going after him. Are you in?"

"You're right. That mule headed priest over there should have at least seen to his brother." Darthen hocks a loogie on Zven. "At least enough to get what we needed from him." As the sound of marching feet are heard he claps Darvyl on the back, lightly. "Lets find this Lamm and see what answers he has for us. But first, lets check up on the others before they decide to gut each other for some foolish mirror."

"Lets find this Lamm and see what answers he has for us. But first, lets check up on the others before they decide to gut each other for some foolish mirror."

"Lamm's not alone. If we go after him, we'll need help."

Placing a hand on the hilt of his sword, Jeorik casually moves himself to the left, half circling the priest, wary of violence.

"I do not really think you should be threatening violence," says Jeorik, trying to maintain a smile, "Keliwyn's suggestion is sensible and if things are as you say, it's a step closer to having what you want in your possession. If it's this much trouble, I would only be too happy to have it off this vessel."

Since the DM said our time IC is limited here, assuming Keliwyn and Inigo reach an agreement to stow the mirror in a neutral location, Jeorik assists everyone in removing their items from the ship then discreetly places the hidden gold in his pack and asks the Captain to escort him back to his uncle's place with it. He then fills his Uncle in on the events on the ship.

Keliwyn stands. "So, you'll strike down an unarmed man to prove that an ancient artifact of the elven people really belongs to the Church of Asmodeus? That hardly sounds lawful, my friend. No, quite simply, we won't be taking the mirror back to the church. My compromise is reasonable, Inigo, and I offer it to you because I have no doubt of your piety. What you need to decide is whether the orders of your superiors and the church are in accord with the precepts of your Lord and his avowed interest in law. I put it to you that they are not, and what would you do, I wonder, if the two are not the same? What would you choose - to follow your god or to follow the church, regardless of what you've been ordered to do? Either way, I suggest you decide quickly. If the guard arrives, the decision may well be taken out of our hands."

"There is no inconsistency. All I require is that we bring it to the Church. You can hold onto it if you like. I am required to see that it is at the Church premises."

"What you say about it being an ancient elven artifact is irrelevant insofar as my order are concerned."

Darthen wrote:

"Lets find this Lamm and see what answers he has for us. But first, lets check up on the others before they decide to gut each other for some foolish mirror."

"Lamm's not alone. If we go after him, we'll need help."

"You're right. Maybe these others will feel compelled to exact some revenge on Lamm for what he did here." Darthen heads back to the ship sees the tension in the air and tries to calm everyone down. "Listen up, the guard are on the way. It doesn't matter if you are with the church or not if they see all of you fighting they will take all of you in. Maybe even have the Nails extract a confession out of you. I saw someone they did that to and believe it when I say you don't want to be near them when they get suspicious. For now think about who did this and why. This Lamm fellow wants this mirror for a reason. Why not store the mirror until after we find Lamm and get some information out of him?"

"Storing the mirror seems the only sensible solution at this point," agrees Jeorik.

"There is no inconsistency. All I require is that we bring it to the Church. You can hold onto it if you like. I am required to see that it is at the Church premises."

"What you say about it being an ancient elven artifact is irrelevant insofar as my order are concerned."

"Let me ask you this, Inigo. If I were to return to your temple with you, and I put it to your superiors to state what legal claim they have to the mirror, what would you do if they give an answer that is unlawful? or if they refuse to give an answer? and what if they ordered you to act in violation of the law? I understand you are trying to fulfill you duty and orders, but it is your superiors I don't trust. Please remember that a lady I cared a great deal for died brining this mirror here. It's not something I'm willing to part with lightly."

A group of eight Guardsmen led by the customs officer doubletimes into view. They are followed by a donkey-drawn cart. Four stand sentry while the others begin manacling the prisoners and loading them into the cart. The customs officer takes statements from each of you and the two guards who survived the encounter.

The boat is sealed. No one on or off, except Darvyl who is taken away with the prisoners for more questioning. He grins at Darthen, "Don't begin that project without me."

Dusk settles and Smalls provides some lanterns for light. About an hour later Dorman Vander arrives on the scene. Denied entry to the boat, he shouts, "Don't worry, I'll settle this with the harbor master," and walks away.

About the time he returns with the harbor master, a party wearing robes and symbols of Azmodeus also arrives in the company of Garven Fellstone.

Inigo, Keliwyn:

The principals quickly come to an agreement. Keliwyn, Morten, and the mirror go one way. Vertas, Inigo, Garven and the acolytes, another. Dorman and party a third. Darthen is left at liberty, but Dorman invites him to a late dinner at his house. Captain Smalls, Arando, and some guardsmen will remain aboard to secure the ship.

Dormans party:

Guys, feel free to retrofit your concurrent reactions to what happens above. I personally am really interested in Inigo's reply to Keliwyn, unless it was cutoff by the guards arrival. I'm planning to post again tonight, answer any questions and give you the NPCs feedback on your performance.

"Let me ask you this, Inigo. If I were to return to your temple with you, and I put it to your superiors to state what legal claim they have to the mirror, what would you do if they give an answer that is unlawful? or if they refuse to give an answer? and what if they ordered you to act in violation of the law? I understand you are trying to fulfill you duty and orders, but it is your superiors I don't trust. Please remember that a lady I cared a great deal for died brining this mirror here. It's not something I'm willing to part with lightly."

"I don't see how my superiors could act in a manner contrary to the law. It is written in our book of faith that our superiors are the embodiment of our Lord. Hence, every word that issues from them is our Lord's words. Viewed from this perspective I trust you fully understand what it means to be part of the church."

"We are ready to shed our blood to protect our faith; but we more ready to shed the blood of others. I think the same can be said of you. I respect that."

"Gentlemen, may I introduce my principals. Master Vertas and Grandmaster Morten."

Jeorik greets the clerics politely enough, he hopes, but he can't help but mentally scowl at the presence of so many devoted to wickedness and lies.

After the coins are securely in his uncle's possession, he tells his uncle of the thugs and mentions that he had heard their employer was named Lamm or Lamb or something like that.

Jeorik greets the clerics politely enough, he hopes, but he can't help but mentally scowl at the presence of so many devoted to wickedness and lies.

After the coins are securely in his uncle's possession, he tells his uncle of the thugs and mentions that he had heard their employer was named Lamm or Lamb or something like that.

Back to Dorman's house. At dinner the girls are not present. From a room upstairs comes the sound of wood sticks striking each other violently. After dinner, Dorman takes Jeorik aside for a private chat.

"I don't see how my superiors could act in a manner contrary to the law. It is written in our book of faith that our superiors are the embodiment of our Lord. Hence, every word that issues from them is our Lord's words. Viewed from this perspective I trust you fully understand what it means to be part of the church."

"We are ready to shed our blood to protect our faith; but we more ready to shed the blood of others. I think the same can be said of you. I respect that."

"I told you, Inigo, after we first met, that I thought we could get along well despite disagreeing on some very fundamental issues, and this only strengthens that opinion. Your faith in your superiors, shall I say, is stronger than mine. I also very much respect the strength of your faith, and hope that it is well placed."

Jeorik listens carefully to his uncle.

"I doubt my mother would want to leave her home. But I might stay here in Korvosa a while if you would have my assistance. The city is vastly different and before returning home myself I would learn as much as I can of the ways of the world beyond Ilsurian."

"As you deal with the business of business perhaps it would be helpful if I tried to learn more concerning those who would ruin your business?"

Jeorik listens carefully to his uncle.

"I doubt my mother would want to leave her home. But I might stay here in Korvosa a while if you would have my assistance. The city is vastly different and before returning home myself I would learn as much as I can of the ways of the world beyond Ilsurian."

"As you deal with the business of business perhaps it would be helpful if I tried to learn more concerning those who would ruin your business?"

"Aye, that would be well. You might try working with that Darthen fellow. I believe he said he was in the business of finding things out. From what happened tonight this Lamb fellow won't stick at much. Here's 80 gold sails. Better toughen up your hide."

"Gentlemen, may I introduce my principals. Master Vertas and Grandmaster Morten."

As the party with the mirror departs, Vertas scowls. On the way back to the temple he tells Inigo:

"The First Lord's design is often hidden from our eyes. If I had my way I'd turn Morten over to the Council for Orthodoxy. (basically Church enforcers and not gentle in their methods.) Instead he's defrocked and barred from attending at temple. What it comes down to is, he's swindled the Church to get that mirror for the Mierani, and he gets to go with it free and clear. And its the First Lord's will. " Did I ever mention the First Lord's sense of humor?"

"What took you so long down here? It seemed a simple enough task to fetch a mirror?" *** after Inigo's summary of events *** "Not uncommon. The infidels can't see what's in their own best interest, and take exception with our methods. Then they decide they can't trust us."

"Anyway, Ornher Reebs, will be taking over as acting head of the temple. Owlen will officiate at the Pantheon. Reebs will decide your new assignment."

Almost as an afterthought, Vertas adds quietly, "You've done well enough, Iñigo. I expect you'll be rewarded."

More to come tonight.

... except Darvyl who is taken away with the prisoners for more questioning. He grins at Darthen, "Don't begin that project without me." ...

... Darthen is left at liberty, but Dorman invites him to a late dinner at his house....

Nodding at Darvyl he says, "Don't worry about that. Come find me at the tavern."

If there is enough time Darthen will report to Thalus, then head to Dorman's for dinner. If not he excuses himself and does his report leaving the address of Jonathon's as a place he can be reached. Either way he says the following before leaving.

"I have heard little of this Lamm character. However what I have heard does not bode well for us. He has been growing in power recently. As soon as he finds out what happened here things will start to get difficult for us. I know how these bullyboys work. They will not stop until they feel the debt has been paid. That means family and friends will be at stake." Looking towards the alleys, "That one that got away worries me. He will have reported all of this to Lamm by now. It may take him a few days to find the rest of us, but you, Dorman, are already known. Inigo, you will also be easy to find at the temple. No matter how you feel about laws someone will find a way to slip a knife between your ribs, or dust your food with poison. The one time we slip will be the time Lamm makes sure we don't get up." Looking seriously at the others, "What I propose may not be for everyone, but think what I have to say over. I think we can find this Lamm easy enough. Eventually he will make a move giving us his location. For now, those of us that can, stick together to lessen the chances of us getting picked off. Dorman, maybe you and your family can take a small vacation. Anyplace that will hide you for a week or so. By then it will either be safe to come back or Lamm will have found you and gotten rid of us. This will not be an easy task, but nothing in life ever is." After the lengthy speech he takes a few minutes to listen to the others and their concerns or critiques.

Seems between work and writing this up I missed the last hour or so of posts. I still would like to interject his little speech, listen to the others concerns, etc. If not then I would like to use it at Dorman's house. Even if Darthen misses dinner from doing his report he will still head over there to try and speak to as many as he can. Especially since he considers this a dire threat and like he said, Dorman would be easy to find.

Almost as an afterthought, Vertas adds quietly, "You've done well enough, Iñigo. I expect you'll be rewarded."

More to come tonight.

Right on!

"I told you, Inigo, after we first met, that I thought we could get along well despite disagreeing on some very fundamental issues, and this only strengthens that opinion. Your faith in your superiors, shall I say, is stronger than mine. I also very much respect the strength of your faith, and hope that it is well placed."

hope you and Radavel are having fun. This debate is beautiful.

Let me retcon one of my earlier posts. Vertas sends the acolytes with Keliwyn and Morten to carry the mirror. Gives him and Inigo more privacy on their walk and leaves you and Morten free of the burden.

Morten is anxious to bring the mirror to the Consul, Selimir. He reeks of self-satisfied pride. Other than that he volunteers nothing.

Selimir is very pleased. "This is a great day for the Mierani. The ambassador himself will want to see you."

hope you and Radavel are having fun. This debate is beautiful.

We're lawyers, it's what we do. Apparently, we're both stubborn as well.

Let me retcon one of my earlier posts. Vertas sends the acolytes with Keliwyn and Morten to carry the mirror. Gives him and Inigo more privacy on their walk and leaves you and Morten free of the burden.

Morten is anxious to bring the mirror to the Consul, Selimir. He reeks of self-satisfied pride. Other than that he volunteers nothing.

Selimir is very pleased. "This is a great day for the Mierani. The ambassador himself will want to see you."

Keliwyn is happy that the mirror has been returned, but is rather displeased with himself for not being more discreet, as he promised. "I serve the greater good of the people, Consul," he says with a bow. He then proceeds to let Selimir know about the fate that has befallen Selumie.

Keliwyn: continuing from my last post. Morten did not volunteer anything on the way over. That's not to say he won't answer questions.

Morten will be staying the night at Selimir's. Selimir asks that you return about mid-morning for the visit with the ambassador. The fact that you'll get face-time is an indication of how extraordinarily pleased he must be.

His spirits are considerably dampened when he learns of Selumie's fate, but he insists her sacrifice was in a noble cause.

Note: I think I forgot to mention that Selumie's tools are masterwork and include a climbing kit.

If there is enough time Darthen will report to Thalus, then head to Dorman's for dinner. If not he excuses himself and does his report leaving the address of Jonathon's as a place he can be reached. Either way he says the following before leaving.

Unfortunately, there won't be time. Dorman receives your advice thoughtfully, and offers to dine at a later date.

Velvet is not in attendance when you arrive. Flippinbush, gnome who seems to be Thalus' second string factotum, shows you in. Thalus is dining. Feasting might be a better word. He urges you to sit and join him. The food is mostly meat, somewhat greasy, but still hot and tasty.

Thalus listens to your report. "Hmmm. The twins and six other citizens incapacitated. That could be a preponderance of Lamm's muscle. This might be a good time to bring that old crocodile to justice." He considers, rolling his head from side to side as if holding something in his hands and examining it from all sides.

"May I leave this in your hands? It should be done before the Badges (Korvosan Guard) release today's catch, if they ever do. "

Whatever your answer, "You've stuck by the side. Well done. Drop by Flippinbush on your way out."

Flippinbush has a pouch with 7 crowns (platinum pieces) in it. Platinum is an especial sign of favor.

Jeorik: Dorman pauses. "Ahhhh. Jeorik, what do you think about Darthen's suggestions? I won't move of course. I'd like to see Lamm come at me. But the girls.... We might try moving them to some friends for a few days. Go up and have them prepare for a trip."

Inigo: Ornher Reebs is a case somewhat like yours. Strong with Az, outspoken, disliked by Morten. He was relegated to tending Az's shrine at the Pantheon of Many and forbidden to visit the temple unless summoned. Working the Pantheon can be a kind of minor exile disguised as a promotion.

Keliwyn: At your flat a note awaits: "Dinner at the Laughing Wave? --Cygney"

Darthen: A very fit looking Darvyl is waiting for you at Jonathan's. "The Guard paid to have me healed. A nice blond from the Bank (slang for the temple of Abadar). I'd let her lay hands on me again." He chuckles. "They're pleased as punch at Citadel Volshyenek. We did well, saving those guards. They're also keen to get the ringleader. I told 'em we picked the thugs up in a square in Slope, but didn't tell 'em about picking up Nihls at Lamm's. He's a tough bugger, but the Guard was working him over pretty hard when they let me go. He'll talk eventually. If we're gonna get Lamm ourselves its got to be tomorrow, tomorrow night at the latest."

Jeorik:

From upstairs the sound of clashing staves can still be heard. The girls are fighting with wooden swords in the hallway. Closest to you Terre and Janetha flail away at Philomina who fends them off with some skill, parrying their blows and riposteing quickly. Terre plays seriously and defensively. Janetha is wild lunges and laughter. She is awful, a hazard to her partner, but is having fun. Philomina is relaxed, the confident athlete toying with overmatched opponents. In short order she scores 2 touches on Janetha, 1 on Terre, and a third on Janetha. A brief argument ensues over whether or not Janetha is out. After 2 more touches she concedes. Alone, Terre does a little better scoring one touch before she takes two more.

Beyond the three combatants Marga sits at the hallway's end, reading and glancing up occasionally when someone shouts.

Philomina smiles at your approach. Before you can speak she's pushing a sword in your hand complaining that her sisters are no challenge and she needs practice.

Inigo:

Back at the temple, Reebs is gazing around the Grandmaster's office. He greets you warmly, clasping your hand firmly. He commends your efforts and suggests you take a few days holiday.

Guys, first CoCT posts will be first thing tomorrow morning KT (Korvosa Time), and tonight RT. (Real Time) So please don't post a full days itinerary for your character.

Jeorik: Dorman pauses. "Ahhhh. Jeorik, what do you think about Darthen's suggestions? I won't move of course. I'd like to see Lamm come at me. But the girls.... We might try moving them to some friends for a few days. Go up and have them prepare for a trip."

Responding to his uncle, Jeorik says, "If you have a safe and secret place to hide them, it might be wise. Still, removing the enemy would be the surest way of ensuring their safety." Then with a grin Jeorik heads upstairs.

Jeorik makes sure to tell the girls that their father is thinking of having them stay elsewhere and tells them they should have some things packed. Then he relaxes enough to join them in their weapons practice.

Jeorik makes sure to tell the girls that their father is thinking of having them stay elsewhere and tells them they should have some things packed. Then he relaxes enough to join them in their weapons practice.

[i]Philomina's weapons practice. Terre and Janetha are eager enough to give it up. The other girls stay to watch a few bouts, but then go to pack. Philomina wants to continue until she beats you in bouts to 3 touches. She has some talent and raw ability. rough estimate: BAB +1, Str +2, Dex +3

You also win the girls' use names: Maggie, Terre, Philly, and Jan.

Consider yourself one of the family. COnsider yourself at home.