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Zalen looks to Alandra and nods and smiles at her to take the lead in her the domain of her temple home. His casual manner makes it appear that his suggesting so has nothing whatsoever to do with walking into the temple of the Goddess of Death on the morn of a possible plague outbreak...or at least he almost does.
"Yes, it may bear fruit to visit them at some point as well, but as we have our own priestess of Pharasma here, and one that is already well respected within her organization at that, I would much prefer to visit there first." "But let us be off my friends, we can continue to converse as we walk. Grau, will your new duties allow you to accompany us, or shall we meet with you at another time to see the ship?"
Crossing the distance between them and putting his hand on Grau's shoulder Zalen says "I am sorry Grau, I did not mean to take away from your good news. But this matter has the potential to be very serious indeed. I swear to you though, whatever happens, we are all in this together." and he gives the muscled shoulder a squeeze before dropping his hand. Turning to include the others he continues with a smile "Well, perhaps our new Captain here can take us down to the ship and we can begin investigating this matter? And as well, Alandra, it strikes me that if we are to be getting deeper into this case, any means we have at our disposal to prevent or cure diseases may be a wise investment. Of course I am willing to pour whatever profits the Emporium is garnering to that effort. Do you think a quick stop at your temple might be wise first?"
Suddenly genuinely happy for the first time in what felt like ages (even though it was not) Zalen smiles huegely as he spreads his arms wide saying ¨Grau! That is fantastic news my friend. Congratulations! It could not have happened to a better man!" his smile somewhat diminished by the reality behind his next words he continues "Nor could it have happened at a better time." The young man gives a concerned look towards Grau and then Alandra and Elian as he finishes " I did not want to say so aloud before, but it is fitting that you be here to here this as well, Captian. Alhough I as of yet have no proof, based on all I have heard so far, I have the sinking sensation that this..disease, may actually be some form of new attack against Korvosa by her enemies. If this is true, and this malady is as dangerous as I fear, we must work very quickly indeed to get to the bottom of things. For otherwise I think this could be a blow from which Korvosa may never recover..."
Zalen gazes with concern upon Alandra and Elian and is just about to ask them how they fare when he is interupped by the entrance of Ayen and Grau. Frowning at Ayen's manner he says to her
As she turns to leave the young man shakes his head in frustration at his difficult ward, yet he says nothing further. In a gesture he has made a thousand times and more he unconsciously brushes away the unruly raven locks that have partially spilled into his face as he waits to make sure the surely young lady is out of earshot. He then turns to the Seargent of the Guard saying
Zalen seems a bit surprised at the Gnome's question but then smiles a tired smile as he says "Ah yes, of course, Narsel, I had just assumed you would be coming but please know you would be most welcome to join us. I fear we shall be needing all the help we can get before we see Korvasa through her next crises."
Zalen had been silent through much of the night. He was deep in thought and appeared to be greatly disturbed by the dire warnings of the phantom fortune teller. Finally though with a great sigh he says
Waiting for Alandra to take her turn, Zalen looks at the cards, looks up at Zalera, then looks at the cards again as he says firmly
Still somewhat nervous around the Spirit, Zalen gulps silently once and then slowly moves forward to shuffle the cards. As he finishes he asks Zelera quietly "Do..ah...do you want All of us to shuffle them?"
Jinx tskses furiously at the Druid, both ashamed and angered that he had allowed her to cause him such a fright. Equally furious, his tribal temper flaring up, Korian rounds on the man with the empty bag "You Fool! By Seth's Sagging Scrotum, you had ONE task! Of all the incompetent..." suddenly realizing though that this problem was likely several degrees above the man's pay-grade Korian immediately calms himself, his fury coming and vanishing as quickly as the tempests of his desert home. Or perhaps better said not vanishing exactly, but rather settling into a seething boil. His tone much calmer, yet the anger still clear in his eyes he continues
Turning to the shapeshifter and her companion Korian asks "Sykala, you shall have to lead us to where this mask is." and including Ixius he adds "And this Estaban of yours, perhaps now is the time to tell us of your relationship with him, or at least the highlights." "As for you two" Korian barks, pointing at the guards "if you care for your jobs and perhaps your lives, I suggest you come with us and do all you can to get that damned mask back. Whatever it takes, we Must not let this Paracount enter the tomb before us." Turning to his friends Korian finishes with "Asim, Ovirid, do either of you have anything else to add?"
Zalen gives Narshel a cross look for a second at the implied insult of his telling them a lie, but then he looks down at the deck in his hands and suddenly grins and laughs as he considers how crazy the story must sound to someone who wasn't there.
When Terra is able to tell us how much we made this day I'll let everyone know how much we made. I am going to assume though that Zalen had needed to put every single coin he had left into the venture. So he's currently at Zero too. As for Eel's End Terra, maybe an easier way to keep track would be just to tell us how much a week we get and then let us know each time a week has gone by?
Subdued by the grim news Zalen wonders tohimself ' Does every cloud have a leaden lining too then?' Could they not have just good news for once? Still though, they owed much indeed to the departed sooth sayer and Zalen was always one to pay his debts. Finishing closing up shop and instructing Owen to take the children on home, Zalen indicated to Grunheld and Narshel to stay back with him. Idly playing with the Deck as they wait for the others to return from Grau's house Zalen suddenly decides to fill the Dwarf and the Gnome in on some of the more pertinent parts of the whole adventure concerning the wretch Lamm that had started this whole thing off..
Zalen rubs his chin as he nods in agreement to the clever Dwarf's reasoning "Indeed, let us hope, for although she herself is not known to me, her family is a particularly old and powerful one." His lips pressing together into a tight line the new proprietor continues grimly "Yet if she seeks to gain some influence over or profit from the business I've...we've started up again in my father's name, she shall find us to be difficult, and dangerous prey indeed." Shaking his head to clear it Zalen looks down on his new Dwarven friend with a smile saying [b]"Nevertheless, I thank you for you help Grunhild. It seems it is my great fortune to always have one of your wise kin by my side to offer sage advice. I think this be a good time to begin closing up our opening day, yes? And then perhaps we can go check on the others and celebrate what was, for the most part, a very fine first day indeed. Food and drinks on me!" And clapping the Dwarven scholar on his solid shoulder, Zalen begins moving around the store, gently guiding the remaining customers out of the store and giving instructions to Owen and the children to begin closing up.
Sense Motive: Knowledge(local):
Sighing inwardly, Zalen smiles once again, although this time allowing to look a little forced; the smile of a reasonable man trying to remain patient with an unreasonable person. Again summoning his charm, he says
"However, while I trust my suppliers, I cannot say with all certainly where or how exactly they may have obtained their goods, or what suppliers they use, or the ones who supply those suppliers and so on. So, what I propose is this- Your friend here, Jendar is it?..." Zalen inquires, nodding towards the man "...Shows great wisdom, why do you not take this urn as he has suggested and try to determine, if possible, if it is indeed really one of the urns you speak of. No, No, I shall take no payment for it, consider it a gift and show of goodwill on our part. Of course if you feel inclined to return it later, you may do so. Finally, if you can, after your inspection of the item, then provide me with some actual evidence..." clearly putting stress on the word "...of any actual wrong doings, then you have my word that I shall do all in my power to seek out and ensure that those responsible are brought before the proper authorities to receive their deserved punishments. I am sure you, and all here" raising his voice to carry at even further at this point " will agree and accept this to be a reasonable solution, yes, hmmm?" And, a satisfied smile on his face, Zalen picks up the urn in question and gently hands it to the annoying woman. As he hands it to her he asks politely "And if it please you my lady, perhaps you would be so kind as to bestow upon us your name?"
Doing his best to look both indignant at the accusation while still trying to be a proper proprietor who wishes to please an upset potential customer (none of which should be too hard, as he is both these things at present)
As the cousin of his good friend Gern came to lend his aid and wisdom Zalen made a mental sigh of relief. He had come to know and respect the knowledgeable Dwarf's opinion on many matters and was glad to have a reliable friend and companion at his side.
Rushing over to the woman, an ingratiating smile on his face and summoning every Dimplomatic () talent in his body, Zalen first tries to calm the woman and enact some damage control at the same time
The concerned proprietor makes sure to say this loud enough for others to overhear. While he does he has several other things going on in his mind at the same time. Glancing at the item(s) in question, Zalen quickly tries to ascertain what they are and their approximate true value. As talks to the woman, Zalen also takes a close scrutiny of the woman herself, trying to determine if she is truly upset over the matter she claims to be, or if this is some sort of scam she is pulling. At the same time, having a roguish background himself and so being aware too that she could simply be a diversion for thieves or vandals she may be partnered with, the sharp eyes young man looks around for anything suspicious and signals to Owen and the children to keep a sharp lookout on everything. Finally, as most of his friends seem to have left, Zalen darts a glance at Narsel, asking with his eyes for aid in dealing with this situation.
Zalen nods interestedly as he listens to Narsel describe his work, but something in the man's tone causes the young rogue to look twice at him. Although he mouths the words, it seems the potion maker does not actually find anything tragic about the recent events in the city at all. His guard suddenly up, and wondering how Alandra knows the man and if he is indeed to be trusted at all, Zalen asks him
Obviously still torn, Zalen finally sends Grau along with Alandra and the others, assuring the worried sergeant that he and his niece are in very good hands. Turning to the newcomer Narsel Zalen replies
Winking along with the smile to show Narsel that he had been indeed delivering the typical sales pitch, it is clear that Zalen is obviously somewhat distracted. With the loss of several pairs of helping eyes and hands, the brand new proprietor knows he has to be more vigilant than ever. Indicating to Owen and the children to keep an even sharper eye on things as well, Zalen adds to Narsel
Beginning to do his rounds of the warehouse, Zalen hopes to draw Narsel along with him.
Obviously torn between abandoning his new business venture on it's opening day, not to mention his adopted brothers and sisters working there and his desire to help his sword-master friend, the young man with the curly brown locks stands in indecision for a moment, not sure what was the best course of action to take.
Having made the proper introductions all around, and greeted Narsell Zalen takes a metaphorical step back to allow those who know much more about healing than he to take over. Still though, concerned about his friend, even more so after Elain's proclamation, Zalen does ask the sergeant
Visibily releived as he hears the nature of Grau's problem, yet his face still showing genuine concern for the seargent's troubles Zalen replies "My friend, 'Mr Candorian' was my father, I insist you call me Zalen. But do not worry, for as you have sought for help, so have you found it. I have little knowledge in matters of healing, but perhaps our friend Alandra might be of greater assistance." And at this, Korian quietly introduces Elian and Grau, wondering if they already know each other, and then asks the former guardsman if he would be able to summon the young priestess. "I may be able to help you though in outher ways. Do you know which specific magical cure your neice needs? As for the cost Grau, do not concern yourself. The health of your neice the primary concern, the money is not important. If you feel the need to pay us back though, I shall gladly accept your services for whatever length of time you feel is reasonable. As you can see, we can use all the help we can get with the business here, but, I believe I have an even better idea how your significant talents could be put to better use. Yet we can speak more on that later. Tell me though, do you know how your neice contracted this illness?" If any of Zalen's other friends come to see what is going on, the proprietor of the Candorian Emporium introduces them to Grau as well.
He could hardly believe it had happened, that it was really real. It had taken a lot of money, work and, most of all, dedication by many devoted souls, but it Really Was Here. The Candorean Emporium had actually all come together and, for the first time today, opened it's doors to the general public. The constantly smiling young man had seemed to everyone like he was 20 people in a 100 different places at the same time today. He could not even figure it out himself really exactly how he was doing it but he always seemed to be just where he was needed at exactly the right moment. It was a talent his father had always had and Zalen had marveled at it as a child, and now, when it was most needed, it seemed he had inherited this gift of his dear departed parent. Zalen smiled contentedly as he imagined his father looking down upon him from the heavens, and for the first time in his life, Zalen really felt that he might have made of himself something for his father to be proud of. Then, as his grin grew slightly more vicious, Zalen was almost equally happy thinking of Gaedron Lamm roasting over a spit in hell, roaring with impotent fury over how they had managed to transform his stinking old warehouse into this beautiful and amazing and unique new business. Thinking of his father though made Zalen pause for the first time of the day, and the timing was right too for the store was having a temporary lull in the flood of traffic it had been having all morning and afternoon. Taking the moment to gratefully rest and take a breath, although in truth he does not feel tired at all, Zalen surveys all that he has caused to come to be. Not for the briefest second though does Zalen think or feel that he has done this all by himself. It was only by the work of many that the Emporium had come to be at all. First and foremost in his heart and mind were his adopted little brothers and sisters. Zalen's heart swelled mightily in his chest with pride and love as he watched the young ones at work. And work they did! So hard! Even tiny Piri seemed to work non-stop. And they all seemed so happy and took such pride and ownership in their work. If he never did anything good in his life ever again, Zalen knew that he would treasure what he had done by helping these children in this way. But there were others too. Already Owen seemed as much a part of the family as any of them. The children had quickly seen through the ruse of 'secret protector' he and Owen had tried to establish, but they hadn't seemed to mind at all. In fact they had taken to 'Uncle Owen' just as quickly as he took to them and, as he had no where else to go, the children had insisted Owen move in with them, forcing Zalen to build on another room to Zellara's old home. Zalen was perfectly at ease with the big man around too for, if anything, the large and seriously dangerous when he wanted or needed to be retired guard was even more protective of the little ones than was he, Zalen, himself. As well there was Elian and Leane, who had also become a part of the ever growing family it seemed. Elian had retired from the guards as well and, while they still lived in their own home of course, the two of them had worked as hard at getting the business up and running as had anyone. Zalen couldn't be happier he had finally decided to take the solid and dependable man into his confidence (although the exact details of Trinia's rescue would likely always remain a secret known only to those directly involved). Then, last but by no means least, were Zalen's old friends, Gern, Alandra and Krek and the two newcomers, Nashael and Grunhild that Alandra and Gern had brought into the group. Although his friends had taken varying levels of involvement with the Emporium, having their own matters and lives to take care of as well, and although the two newest were as yet not very well known by Zalen, all had regardless participated and offered their unique and valuable services at one time or another and all were welcome in, and had a stake in, the growing business. It is at this very moment of happy reflection that Zalen first notices a face he had not seen for some time, that of the Sergeant of the guard who had shown up on his doorstep one evening, the fencing master, Grau. Zalen also can't help but notice that the man looks significantly worried. Many of his happy feelings instantly evaporating as concern and adrenaline take their place, Zalen quickly gives the sign to Owen to keep sharp and motions for Elian to follow close by. He then heads to cut Grau off in a more secluded section of the warehouse and, without preamble, says seriously but not un-kindly "Good greetings to you Grau and welcome to our fine store. Tell me my friend, what troubles you this day and how can I help?"
"That sounds perfect Elian. Would mind helping me drag this bunch and our small mountain of belongings to the Three Rings? once we're settled in and Gela has her eye on the kids, maybe you can go find this Owen yourself though and bring him back with you to the Inn? At this point, unless it's absolutely necessary, I'd rather not leave the children with a guardian."
His smile freezing sickly on his face briefly as he is taken aback by Elian apprently seeing through him so clearly, taking a last searching look at the genuine seeming guard, Zalen deflates and, looking like his is eager to finally be able to share his burdens with someone says
Then, turning earnest eyes towards Elian Zalen continues "Yes, my friend, you have the right of it. While it is true that I am having the house enlarged to comfortably accomodate us all, at the moment I do fear of my abilty to keep all of my young wards safe here all by myself. I have no fear from Lamm's ex-partners, but, ah, certain events have caused me to feel that there may be some chance, however small, of the children being at risk while with me. As I love them all as if they were my own flesh and blood, even the smallest risk is not one I am willing to take when their safety is concerned. So I am taking them to the Three Rings. Gela will be sure to keep a close eye on them and I may even hire a suitably discreet bodyguard who can pose as the Inn's peacekeeper or some such. This also leave me free to pursue some of my other interests without having to worry overmuch about the children's safety." Thinking for a moment Zalen asks "Perhaps you know of someone who may be suitable for such a positon as 'secret protector' of my new found little brothers and sisters? I assure you, I can pay well for someone worthy." While it is clear that Zalen is not yet ready to trust Elain with everything he is concerned with at present(and may never be), the city guardsman can tell the the young man in front of him is being truthful and is glad to have another to share his burden with, even if only for a short time.
Although there is still a smile on his face, the young man's eyes are deep and serious as he searches the face and eyes of the Guard before him, seeming to take in the full measure of the man. Elian is more than a little surprised to see faint sparkles of electricity dance across Zalen's eyes but the intensely gazing young man doesn't seem to notice them at all. A few uncomfortable moments of silence pass, with everyone seeming to wait on Zalen's words. Finally, he appears to come to some sort of internal decision and, with a complete and genuine smile that lights up his eyes (in a non-electrical way) he steps forward, grasps Elian's forearm with one hand and claps the man on the back with the other. "Yes, I accept your offer of aid Elian. Gods know I could use a hand or ten keeping this rabble of trouble makers in line." As he says this last, he directs a grin over his shoulder at the small group of children who have gathered to watch the drama at the door unfold. Turning back to Elian but raising his voice he says
"Please, come in, come in" says the host to his two guests, backing away from the door into the room "And please excuse the mess. Here, let me clear a seat at the table for you. Can I get you a drink?" Zalen closes the door, and then carefully locks it, Elian doesn't fail to notice, before clearing the table as he had said he would do, ushering his guests into the only two now clear chairs. Coming back from the kitchen a moment later with two drinks for them, Zalen perches on the edge of the table as he says "Leane, maybe you could go help Piri pack? I don't know if we'll ever get out of here otherwise. That girl would bring the whole house with her if she could." Zalen laughs fondly. Once she leaves, Zalen looks to Elian and says "Zellara's house was never meant to room this many, so I am having renovations done. Hence the mess and our moving out. I'll be putting myself and the children up at the Three Rings. You know of it? We've dined there several times now and the proprietor, Gela, seems to have fallen in love with Perol and Pirisa, the two youngest of our bunch. When I mentioned I was looking for somewhere for the kids and I to stay temporarily, she simply wouldn't hear of us going anywhere else." Although Zalen seems relaxed in his speech and manner, more and more, Elain gets the feeling that there is more going on, more to the story than meets the eye. Although he can't imagine why, Elian is getting the distinct impression that underneath his confident and calm manner, the young man is actually quite concerned about something. Possibly even worried, or even scared.
"Pirisa! How many times do I have to tell you not to answer the door on your own! And you still have to finish packing!" following the irritated and acerbic words around a corner is the young woman who voiced them. Stopping short as she sees the large and armed man at the door, the lass eyes him warily. Her eyes then light on Leane and, obviously recognizing the young girl, she relaxes a tiny fraction. She nods in greeting to the younger girl but there is no friendliness in her gaze. If anything, she looks defensive and perhaps even more hostile. The cold eyed lass makes angry 'come hither' motions to the little girl who answered the door but the child clings even tighter to the hand of Leane and doesn't move an inch. Her glare promising future retribution, the young woman turns her head slightly over her shoulder without taking her eyes off the newcomers at the door and calls out loudly "Mr Candorian! You'd better come down! There's..." She is interrupted though for as he was already on the way down, it is at that moment that the Mr. Candorian being hailed turns the corner himself. He also stops short, a brief look of panic being replaced by careful calculation as he takes in the scene at the front door, his eyes seeming to miss nothing. Suddenly a large smile is on his face
Spoiler:
although it doesn't quite seem to reach his eyes, which more have a look of mingled danger, caution and fear at the moment.
as he puts his hand on the shoulder of young woman before him as he says lightly "And how many times do I have to tell You Ayen to call me Zalen." Then quickly stepping forward, the youngish man holds out his arms for the little girl who comes running full tilt into them. Swinging her around he places her on the floor behind him as she giggles
Spoiler:
there joy in his eyes is genuine as he briefly plays with the young girl. But despite his playful movements. you get the strong impression that his actions were more intended get the little one away from the door than anything else. He has also managed to subtly place himself to block direct sight of Ayen and his sword arm and rapier are closest to the door. He is smooth, this one. he squats down slightly to her, saying "Now listen to your big sister Piri, run along and finish packing, ok? We are leaving very soon." You notice that he too never takes his eyes of the strangers the entire time. As the child dashes off, the man named Zalen stands and, looking at the man behind standing behind the girl, he nevertheless directs his words at the young lady behind him as he says "Now what do we have here Ayen? It seems these people are known to Piri?" Those his words are said in a friendly tone, to the man he is looking at, there is the clear threat of danger and death in the curly haired young man's eyes. There is only silence for a few moments but finally a sulky voice answers "I do not know the man Mr. Can...Zalen. But Leane was one of the girls at the Warehouse with us. But I guess you don't remember her?" At this last bit Ayen's tone actually becomes somewhat happier and even hopeful. Slowing changing his gaze to look down at Leane, Zalen squints for a several seconds then, a light of recognition slowing dawning in his eyes he says "Yeeeesssss. Yes, I believe I do recall. Please accept my apologies young mistress, that was a rather...hectic day shall we say and it has been a while since then. But perhaps it was just because you look so lovely now that I didn't recognize you!" as he grins and winks in an innocent and affectionate manner at the former slave of that monster Gaedren Lamm. The man standing at the door is suddenly surprised, and very confused, that the man he came to find doesn't fall down dead from the host of venomous daggers which must surely be sprouting from his back due to the looks Ayen is abruptly shooting at him. Completely oblivious to the drama going on behind him, Zalen looks back to the man, his gaze noticeably friendlier but still quite guarded as he says "Well, how can I help you friend? I only ask you make it quick though, for, as you can perhaps see for yourself, we are all about to depart."
Leaning against a pillar to catch his breath, Zalen looks around the Lamm's old warehouse thinking
His eyes gazing off into space as he continues to think and plan, Zalen suddenly has another though 'Yes! That's it! I can start up my father trading company again! And what better place to do it in than the former den of the man who caused his downfall! And I'll get the kids involved in the business. That should keep them busy.' A soft smile on his face as his daydreaming makes the achievement of all his plans and ideas an easy task, very likely naively so, Zalen is shaken from his reverie as Gern speaks. At the wise dwarf's words of caution, Zalen suddenly realizes what the nagging thought stuck in the back of his mind was. 'Yes of course! The Children! How could I have been so foolish. They may not be safe at Zellara's, I'll have to move them out. At least for a little while. Maybe to an inn? Yes, yes, that could work, and they'll be more protected there as well and I'll be able to have the staff keep an eye on them.' Standing up and clapping the good dwarf companionably on the shoulder, Zalen grins widely as he says
Then, standing and waving his arms about the warehouse, Zalen's grin widens to perhaps the biggest his friends have ever seen on him as he tells them
Pausing a moment as he searches the eyes of his friends for a reaction, Zalen, trying hard to convince his companions of the merits of his plan, continues.
Taking things down a notch, Zalen now says, completely seriously
Pausing again to look at each one individually, Zalen asks his final question
Having forgotten about them in the excitement of the mad dash, once he notices Gern do so, Zalen also discreetly discards his mask and cape, trying not to leave any more clues than necessary to any who may be tracking them.
Spending a moment in thought as he gazes on the departing duo, Zalen finally turns to his friends with a grin they cannot see but can hear in his voice as he says
And with that, Zalen speeds off, leading the way to Lamm's, but making sure to take a route not easy to follow to any who are not intimately familiar with Korvosa's backways and alleys like he is.
Not even sparing a glance to the murderess in metal as she gets her just deserts, Zalen whips his head to face Blackjack exclaiming "Escape the City?!" The idea both terrified and thrilled the young rogue as, in his whole life, he had never been farther than a day's ride from the city of his birth and life. Everything else was, in his mind anyway, the Wild 'Out There'. "Or did you just mean escape this crowd? But regardless, we shall cover your backs while you get Trinia to safety" and at that he looks at the battered girl, and though she can see nothing of his face, he tries to show his sympathy and sorrow through his eyes. Turning back to Blackjack, Zalen takes his first good close up look at the famed rebel, as he tries to determine if he can sense anything familiar about the figure, it's voice or it's manner. S Motive: Done with his inspection, Zalen asks a final question "As well, is there a time and place we could meet you both later?" before turning to the crowd, ready to cast another spell if need be.
Not pausing for a second, and knowing that the sadistic and deranged woman chasing him would never be able to jump anywhere with all that weight on her, Zalen runs as fast as he can and, trying to find something to launch himself off of, uses all his training to leap as high as he can to try and grab the ledge and pull himself up quickly and smoothly. Once on the battlements he draws his rapier to try and help the Blackjack fight off the two guards. Seemingly incongruously, as he runs to the wall the young rogue begins to laugh, as he thinks to himself 'Why am I suddenly reminded of the time I had to flee from that visiting Noble Lady's husband? What was her name again? Nelaia something? Mind you, it wasn't my neck her husband was aiming for, haha. But you best get your mind back to matters at hand Zalen my boy, I know you love the adrenaline rush, but it's more than just your life on the line now, so concentrate! And JUMP!'
Zalen here, is a Rogue who's just now discovering his sorcerous heritage. He'll likely continue to level in both for a bit, not sure yet what, if any, prestige class he'll end up with. He's also the party 'face' and usually leader (although he relies heavily on the wise Gern's advice). As well the young human is struggling to be a big brother/father figure to a group of orphans he's adopted. While he's done an ok job so far, sometimes he feels he's hanging on by his fingernails. And the oldest girl, Ayen, is beginning to seriously give him the creeps...there's something...odd... about that one. But all in all, being an orphan himself and never having had any siblings, he's thrilled to have them in his life and will do all in his power to raise them right and keep them safe. And, ah Terra, did you say we're at 4th level??! :O
and hey Wrath, just noticed that Gern's still listed at 2nd! : O ) Oh, and hey Terra, I just remembered, but Zalen hasn't forgotten about Majenko! ;-)
Cursing a foul oath at the viscous, emotionless guard striking down anyone in her way, Zalen decides to have no more innocent blood will be spilt on his behalf and calls out "My friends! You know where to meet me, make your way there with all haste! Do not wait for me!" Then, using his acrobatic and tumbling skills to try and maneuver into a clear space so the savage guard can chase him freely without harming anyone else, Zalen then calls to her "Here I am! Come and catch me if you can you Iron B@$%&!" He will keep calling and taunting her until he reaches a clear space and is free of the mist. Making sure she can see him, he will then use all his skill to jump, tumble, climb and sprint away. Only making his way towards Lamm's after he's sure he has lost her.
Zalen cannot help but grin widely at the excitement of the moment and the chaos of the situation. Something in it calls to him and the ringing words of blackjack stir his heart as well. He wonders who the mystery person could be, and has his suspicions, yet he leaves those thoughts for later as the iron maiden comes charging towards him. Seeing Trinia's escape and hearing Alandra's, Zalen makes all speed towards his friends, reaching them just as the mist begins to coalesce about them. Sprinting into the lead, Zalen shouts back "Follow Me my friends! To Safety!" And, hoping to use his knowledge of the roofs and backways of the city, the young rogue hopes to lead his friends and Trinia to Lamm's old place as quickly and safely as possible.
With his drawn hood covering his face mask, Zalen had kept whispering in his charmed friend's ear, subtly bringing the conversation around how horrible it was to execute a young girl like this. The moment Gern bursts forth in rage, Zalen yells passionately to the large guard "We cannot let this travesty pass my friend! Help us save her!" He then releases his Ghost Sound spell, causing the sound of three men a one woman yelling and screaming at the top of their lungs about hordes of (?) attacking and burning the city, causing the sound to come from somewhere near the entrance to the courtyard. Then, as soon as he can, he spins and casts his Spray of Colours spell, aiming it to catch the Queen and as many guards in it's path as he can. Finally, he also tries to keep a close eye on the hopefully fleeing Trinia, and as soon as he finishes his Colour Spray spell he races to catch up to her.
Zalen's stomach filps flops inside him, roiling with guilt as he sees the treatment which Trinia has been subject too. As his gaze moves to the young Queen, the powerful attraction and loyalty he had felt for her before turns to ashes in his mouth and a seething rage settles in to replace everything else. When Trinia is brought to the block, Zalen raises his cowl and turns away his head, as if he can't bear to look. Really though he uses this opportunity to don his mask and ready himself to cast the first spell he intends to use to cause as much commotion and panic as possible. Tarren
Spoiler: Tarren, I'm planning to have Zalen first use Ghost Sound to create the yelling of four people (his current limit) screaming in panic about some sort of invasion of armed forces happening right now. But I don't know what would be most believable. What type of force, army, monsters or whatever would be most believable to be attacking the city?
Just before he arrives at the spectacle, Zalen discreetly uses his wand to cast Mage Armor on himself. He then follows the press of people inside, using his skills to blend in. Rogue that he is, Zalen notes the absence of a few prominent members from the vip section and files the information away to be shared later on with his friends. As the good-hearted young man sees the gay and festive air of those present, he becomes both enraged and disgusted by his fellow Korvosians. That they could be so cavalier about the upcoming death of a young woman, whether guilty or not, makes him want to lash out in fury at them. Calming himself with some effort, Zalen looks around for his friends, if he does see them nodding to them subtly. While doing this, the rogue also takes a good look around the courtyard, figuring out the best, quickest and easiest exits, using his knowledge of the city to do so. Finally, he then moves to place himself in the best position so as to be able to affect the greatest number of guards with his spells. Looking for the biggest guard he can find, Zalen will place himself directly behind the man, and, again using his cloak and his skills to do so without anyone seeing him, casts Charm Person on the man and beings to chat in a friendly manner with him. "Quite a turn-out here today eh my friend? This will be my first execution, what do you expect to happen?" Knowledge(local):
Zalen nods at Gern's eternal practical wisdon and good sense and then first looking to Alandra to see if she has anything else to add, he says with more of a serious expression than the others had seen on him before "We may be in it for sure this time folks, but I truly believe we'll be fighting on the side of the angels in this one, so I feel confident we shall succeed. But, if we don't, it's been a true pleasure to work with you all and call you my friends." And again, wiating for the others to say whatever they wish first, when done, Zalen heads home, to make the simple supplies he will need, spend some time with the children and get some rest for the big event.
Consulting his knowledge of the city, Zalen tries to figure the best and easiest place to discreetly get a hold of some masks and throw away cloaks. Unless anyone has anything else to add, he suggests they all head home for a good nights sleep and arrive to the scene separately, but all slowly make their way to the front. He finishes with "Also, we should agree on some kind of signal...hmm, perhaps when Alandra and I cast our spells to distract or incapacitate the guards, Warth, Krek and Ayedah can make the grab for Trinia?"
Zalen muses for a moment before answering "Hmmm, yes, I can se the benefit of trying the rescue in the midst of a large crowd like that. But what are your ideas or suggestions for after Kroft? Where should we run to? Where can we hide? Where, if anywhere, could we be safe? Also, it may be a good idea to try and disguise ourselves...just in case. Maybe Halvera could let us borrow that wand of hers..."
Ducking quickly back into the room with Kroft and the others so that Ayen of the children wouldn't see him, Zalen inwardly sighs as he thinks to himself for the hundredth time 'What am I going to do with that girl?! What is wrong with her anyway? Gods, do all 'parents' have it this hard? Anyway, at least the children likely didn't hear anything they shouldn't have' Once back in the room the young man turns to Korft once again, saying "Well, Field Marshall, if we can't meet at your office can you suggest anywhere we might be able to meet...in secret?" Answering his own question he muses aloud "Maybe Halvera could help us? She seems to be quite skilled in the arts of...disguise and intrigue, and she does kinda owe us one. Also, I'm sure she wouldn't consider having the Commander of the Guards owing her a favor to be a bad thing either." he adds with a kind of ironic wink. "Otherwise, my dear Kroft, should we embark on the mission I think we may, this might be the last time we see each other. And so, with that in mind, I must also ask you an important favor. If anything should happen to me, or all of us" as he indicates the rest of his friends, "the children I have taken in here would be...left alone, again. I would beg you that in such an eventuality that you...I don't know, at least somehow see to their safety and security? I know it is a lot to ask of you Cressida, but I really have no one else to ask."
Zalen's eyes narrow dangerously at Kroft's words but it is obvious his anger is not directed at any in the room. And Wrath's wise reminder of the nearby presence of the children, Zalen nods and moves over to where he can check to see that they are all still safely in the other room.
Now that the Field Marshall seemed to be coming slowly back to herself, Zalen asked her once again "What happened though Cressida? What did you find out during Trinia's trial? And what are your suspicions as to what is really going on? If we are to even consider pitting ourselves against the very crown to save the life of this girl, I will want to know exactly what I am getting into. Why do you think they want to put this girl to death if you found her innocent?"
Ah, the always dependable Gern. The Dwarf's harsh words, while not directed at him personally, were enough to snap Zalen out of his stupor. Taking a deep inhalation and standing up straight, a raging fire ignites in the young man's eyes at the sense of injustice, betrayal and guilt he feels. As he moves to put a comforting arm around Kroft though, it is evident he is controlling his fury as his words to the weeping woman come out soft and honeyed. Yet also are they strong and encouraging as rogue applies all his skill with words (1d20+6=15) to try and reach the inner core of strength he knows the Marshall to still have. "Cressida, my friend, you are no longer alone. Whatever you may have thought to be impossible before, I know that together, we can all find a way to make things right. And we WILL make it right! This I swear! But to do this we will need your help. First, you must tell us exactly what happened? Had you found Trinia to indeed be innocent? And if so, why? We need to know what is really going on here. Secondly, no one knows this city and the castle like you do. If we are to attempt some type of rescue, we shall need your knowledge, support and connections." Looking up to his friends, Zalen motions to Alandra with his eyes as he says "Alandra, perhaps some of that wine might help steady the Field Marshal. Would you be so kind as to pour her a cup?"
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