Red eyes narrow on her lord as he suggests going alone to through the militaristic city but she cannot be in two places at once. "Lord Ceceka could accompany you, Lord Caraid." her velvet voice containing enough bite to hear.
Limited time in new accommodations with no provisions prepurchased makes the task of a Blood Lord dinner difficult for the head maid and her staff, and while it is not Aily's best work the resulting feast is still well above the ability of a mortal lifespan. Made even more delectable as her dhampir maids serve the food with a flowing grace and stunning beauty.
Lord Zthni seems thrilled by Caraid's calling. When he greets the oracle at the door to his quarters, though, it's clear that the vampire has fallen on hard times. His clothes are worn and several months out of fashion, and his eyes are ablaze with a desperate light. "Ah! My old friend! I hear you and your companions are full-fledged Blood Lords now! Many congratulations! Come in, come in."
The state of Zthni's chambers are further testament that he has fallen out of favor of late. Zthni sighs when asked about his situation. "Yes, alas, things have not been going very swimmingly lately! A few of my associates were recently executed, quite publicly, as traitors to Geb. I am under suspicion and scrutiny, even though I have done nothing wrong! But, perhaps, now that you are here, you might help me reverse my fortunes once again?"
***
Meanwhile, Telvir and Humerus call upon Kyril Vonth. As opposed to Zthni, Vonth has seen his fortunes and influence rise, as a few risky financial investments have paid off handsomely. He is busier than he'd like with Export Guild business, but he makes time to welcome you and play a game of blood price with you. "I am pleased to here of your elevation to our ranks. Tell me, what brings you back to Yled?"
"We're investigating some issues for our Lord Geb," Telvir replies. "We'll need to gather some information about imports and exports around the city. Would you be able to help with that?"
"Lord Zthni, a pleasure." Caraid replies with his practiced warm smile. "I am always happy to offer support to my friends. If you were able to assist me in turn, particularly since I am on mission for Lord Geb himself, then it would be a powerful proof of your loyalty and commitment to our great nation. What can you tell me about local events recently? I hear that there's a lot more going on than last year."
"I will do what I can,"' Kyril says to Telvir, "though it may take me some time to get you the information that you are seeking if it involves specialty products. The wheels of bureaucracy turn slowly. But I will put in a good word for you with the other members of the Guild here in Yled as well."
***
Zthni nods eagerly. "Yes, yes, I am happy to help! As you'd no doubt seen already, the city is gearing up for war! Nex is mustering their forces, and Yled is responding in kind. Troops are drilling, the Celebrants parading soldiers through the streets, and the Warmaster Council is planning for the battles ahead. Tarde is booming, but there is tension in the air, and the guards are vigorously stamping out any signs of treachery, real or imagined, such as in my sorry case."
He takes a moment to pour a tall glass of blood wine and downs its contents. "With my decline in status, I don't have the influence to directly aid you very much, I'm afraid. But I do have some treasures you might make use of! Please, take them, and think kindly upon me." Zthni offers Caraid three jeweled bracers worth 40 gp each and a red wyrm dragon's breath potion.
"Most excellent," Telvir answers. "And, appreciated."
"Come, Humerus. Let's wander the city a bit on our way back to the lodging. You can talk with the other laborers. See if they have heard anything about the ingredients we seek."
Telvir, meanwhile, talks with various shopkeepers and exporters.
Caraid takes Cecka with him and also goes rumor hunting.