Her smile freezes, then slowly vanishes. "I--well--it--" she stammers. She takes a deep breath, and her smile returns, though notably smaller. "I can assure you, my search is going fine. I'm just stopping here because I was offered information on Benhov's destination."
Emrys finds his mind wandering, his train of thought broken only with Brayker's rattling of the gates. "You never know, making a ruckus may be the best method of getting our host's attention. I wouldn't be surprised if those rats forget to inform their master we had arrived, in their haste to escape the pursuits of Hazard."
"You never know, making a ruckus may be the best method of getting our host's attention. I wouldn't be surprised if those rats forget to inform their master we had arrived, in their haste to escape the pursuits of Hazard."
"... Guess we'll see if I perked his ears then, huh? Heh, yeah, that guy gives me the willies too ... just a bit though," Brayker responds. He's really quiet at first, but his spirits seem to be lifted somewhat as he says his piece about Hazard.
The door opens and a middle aged man in flowing brown robes is standing there. He's approximately six feet tall and is wiry in build. He has short brown hair, with some grey at the temples.
His face looks friendly but his voice belies that impression.
"Have none of you ever heard of knocking?"
He turns quickly and walks into the house, leaving the door open behind him.
He smiles.
"I like 'im already."
Brayker stands up casually and brushes himself off.
He walks in.
"He strikes me as short-tempered and easily flustered; I should try to get him to play a few games of Golem." Emrys follows Brayker through the open door.
The door opens and a middle aged man in flowing brown robes is standing there. He's approximately six feet tall and is wiry in build. He has short brown hair, with some grey at the temples.
His face looks friendly but his voice belies that impression.
"Have none of you ever heard of knocking?"
He turns quickly and walks into the house, leaving the door open behind him.
Aseve flushes and follows the man.
"He strikes me as short-tempered and easily flustered; I should try to get him to play a few games of Golem." Emrys follows Brayker through the open door.
Ellaria follows the others, thinking to herself that the man did have a point. She even feels a bit shamed that such an unpolite thing happened. Shaking her concern, she moves next to Emrys and asks while trying to lighten up her mood: "I take it you're a Golem player. I've played a bit myself and would like to test my skill later on".
Ellaria follows the others, thinking to herself that the man did have a point. She even feels a bit shamed that such an unpolite thing happened. Shaking her concern, she moves next to Emrys and asks while trying to lighten up her mood: "I take it you're a Golem player. I've played a bit myself and would like to test my skill later on".
"I would be delighted to play a few hands with you, though I'll have to secure a new deck before we can sit down to a game; I seem to have misplaced mine on the journey to Cassomir." The inquisitor lets out a clearly-exaggerated sigh of remorse before continuing. "It's as if I've lost a part of myself, as important to me as my hands, my razor wit, my keen sense of observation."
As he converses with Ellaria, Emrys remains observant, looking for heraldry or other markings that might help identify the master of this house or his demeanor.
Carbrook waits patiently for the others to make their way inside, taking the opportunity to have a better look at the house from the outside. He then carefully removes his hat and follows the rest, pulling the door closed behind him.
"I would be delighted to play a few hands with you, though I'll have to secure a new deck before we can sit down to a game; I seem to have misplaced mine on the journey to Cassomir." The inquisitor lets out a clearly-exaggerated sigh of remorse before continuing. "It's as if I've lost a part of myself, as important to me as my hands, my razor wit, my keen sense of observation."
Ellaria keeps small-talking in order to occupy herself during the quite-long walk into the man's house, "It seems like you're really into the game", she mentions to Emrys, ignoring his self-praise "I'm afraid my skills would probably be inferior to such a player, but would love to hone my skill sometime".
Hazard snaps out of his reverie, only to realize that he is now indoors. Curiosity strikes him, and and he begins to wander the foyer, looking at the decorations. While handling some trinket that he really rather oughtn't, it snaps. He drops it with a clatter and walks off humming nonchalantly.
You all follow the retreating man into the house and end up in a room with many comfy chairs as well as a writing desk and rows and rows of books.
You have all seen palaces, and so the property doesn't impress in terms of size, but the quality is something you don't come into ready contact with every day. From the wall-hangings to the rugs on the floor. From the finishing touches of gold and silver to the man's silken robes, everything exudes wealth.
He waits for you all to be seated. As you congregate, you notice the obvious trappings of a mage. Ingredients and wands litter the desk and literally dozens of the books are apparently grimoires.
There is no obvious sign as to who the man is - and he carries no obvious insignia of a particular house or deity.
"Thank you all for coming," he finally says. His voice is now calm and your initial impression of friendliness is emphasised by his voice and manner. "I notice you are showing some interest in my things." He shoots a glance at Dr. Hazard, but smiles reassuringly. "And I'm sure you can tell that I am a dabbler in things magical."
"Which leads me to my little request. I have an apprentice and he's foolishly decided to strike out on an adventure. In my opinion, he's not at all ready and I was wondering if you could catch up with him before he does anything foolish?"
"I can offer the information that I have hinted at, plus 100 gold pieces if you can help me out."
That smile returns to his face and he steeples his fingers and leans back against a book-case.
Aseve smiles. "I'd be happy to help."
"Before I consider helping you, I would at least like to know who you are. It's apparent you're familiar with our identities," Emrys indicates himself and the others in the room, ,"but I'm afraid we know little of you. I don't enjoy being at such a disadvantage."
"Why'd ya pick us, and 'ow is it that ya know so much about us?"
Aseve smiles. "I'd be happy to help."
** spoiler omitted **
"Before I consider helping you, I would at least like to know who you are. It's apparent you're familiar with our identities," Emrys indicates himself and the others in the room, ,"but I'm afraid we know little of you. I don't enjoy being at such a disadvantage."
The mage considers Emrys for a few moments. "I am not sure what else to add beyond what I have already shared. My name is Jacques and I dabble in magic. I have an apprentice and he has wandered off on a fool adventure."
The man scratches his chin. "What else do you want to know?"
** spoiler omitted **
"Why'd ya pick us, and 'ow is it that ya know so much about us?"
"Many moons ago," says Jacques, "I was a lowly adventurer. A powerful mage offered me a commission of sorts and I never looked back. Call it passing on the favour."
"How do I know so much about you? Well that can be in part answered by all of this." He waves his arms indicating the room. "It is my business to be mysterious, to know things others can only guess at. And as for specifically how I know...I think that's best left to your return."
"I can only ask you to take on this opportunity. I have no intention of rushing you, but every minute and the trail must grow colder."
The mage considers Emrys for a few moments. "I am not sure what else to add beyond what I have already shared. My name is Jacques and I dabble in magic. I have an apprentice and he has wandered off on a fool adventure."
The man scratches his chin. "What else do you want to know?"
Emrys steeples his fingers and leans back in his chair, imitating their host's earlier posture. "What role do you have in Cassomir? We all have our reasons for being here, but why does a former adventurer such as yourself choose this city as his home?"
He pauses before making a show of collapsing in his chair, as if suddenly weak from hunger. And why have are there no refreshments? Some cheese, maybe some cider. Sweet barleybrew, you've not even offered a simple beer." Emrys grins mischievously. "On that note, I think Hazard might still be interested in finding one of your rats... "
"Many moons ago," says Jacques, "I was a lowly adventurer. A powerful mage offered me a commission of sorts and I never looked back. Call it passing on the favour."
"How do I know so much about you? Well that can be in part answered by all of this." He waves his arms indicating the room. "It is my business to be mysterious, to know things others can only guess at. And as for specifically how I know...I think that's best left to your return."
"I can only ask you to take on this opportunity. I have no intention of rushing you, but every minute and the trail must grow colder."
Brayker considers for a moment. Then a bit longer.
"Well, I'm in."
He shrugs.
Hazard nods, taking everything Jacques says at face value. He waves his hand at Emrys' comment, indicating that it is of no issue and that more important things are afoot.
"Certainly sir, if you can hold up to your end of the bargain, I am sure we can hold to ours." Hazard, injects, with an odd gleam full of greed in his eye.
"What can you tell us of your apprentice? I hope we need not start such an undertaking with no information."
Ellaria smiles as they are seated by Jacques, and her smile widens while he tells them the details about the adventure he offers them. She keeps nodding during the conversation, and seems clearly interested in such a quest. When the turn comes to respond to the offer, she stays silent for a few moments, while the others speak, and then speaks herself: "Of course, I'd be interested with helping you with such a thing. Just give us the details, and we'll be off immediately". A moment later, she looks around to the others' faces, unsure of their reaction to her obvious enthusiasm and the fact she has talked in plural.
Carbrook waits for Ellaria to reply to the mysterious patron, and look around for responses.
In a measured, slightly mournful, tone, he adds 'as you have obviously taken time to find out about each of us, sir, I must assume that we have been chosen because of our' he pauses and slowly scans the other members of the group 'singular talents. Given that you are therefore familiar with my area of 'expertise', I must enquire as to the particulars of the matter in hand and how you feel I may be of assistance?'.
Again, he slowly scans the group, although this time as a precursor to addressing them. He once more removes his hat, allowing the others to see his sunken face, and dark eyes.
'For those of you to whom I have not yet been introduced, my name is Carbrook. Death is my calling. Not, I hasten to add, as one of who dispenses it freely or glories in it, rather one who acknowledges and embraces its part of the natural cycle, and investigates its causes when that cycle is broken'.
Returning to the mage, one of his eyebrows rises minutely, and he enquires 'what role does death play here?'.
Jacques surveys the group.
"I am pleased that some of you are trusting enough to take me up on my offer without further questions."
He turns to Emrys. "Cassomir is my home. It has always been my home. I am not sure I have a reason for being here beyond that. And as for refreshements, I can offer some provisions for your journey, but I did not plan for this to be a social engagement." There is a note of impatience edging into to his voice.
He turns now to face Dr. Hazard. "My apprentice is young, foolish but very clever. He'll make a fine mage one day - if he lives that long. He longs for adventure and dash the consequences. Such a trait tends to lead to death more often than not. If you all accept the task, I can give further details."
He then considers Ellaria. "As I suggested to the good doctor, as soon as you have agreement, I'll be happy to give more information."
Finally he turns to Earnest. "I am a great believer in dynamics. The academics call it synergy. You, as a group, are greater than the sum of your parts. Who is to say which of your skills will be employed in this endeavour? You have a good reputation and have a will to do the right thing. Beyond that, I cannot say."
"Now I must press you all to make a decision. What is it to be?
Emrys opens his mouth to say something further, noting that Jacques avoided answering his question, but pauses as if considering the wisdom of further testing the patience a wizard of unknown ability.
"Fine, I'll join this search for your apprentice. But the information your rats promised had best be worth the task; we wouldn't want the shining reputation of rodents everywhere to be tarnished by a handful that made promises they couldn't deliver."
"I too will accept your offer." Hazard replies, with a nod of his head. "After all, what do I have to lose?"
Ellaria smiles at Jacques. "As I've said, I'm in".
Brayker is sitting there in a slumped, uncaring sort of way with his hands behind his head and his legs stretched way out.
His eyebrows furrow as he shoots a glance toward Earnest and another to Val, moving only his eyes.
Carbrook's ghoulish features remain impassive as he considers the mage's offer for a moment. Finally, in the same deathly monotone, he replies 'I accept your offer of commission to locate your apprentice. Should the matter prove to be of relevance to my own interests, then I shall require no more than reasonable expenses for payment. If we are successful in the task and you have further engagements, I reserve the right to consider my part in them, if that is acceptable?'.
Jacques appears to take the 'yes's' and the lack of 'no's' to mean acceptance.
He produces a sketch of a young man no older than twenty. He is average looking, with short hair and no distinguishing features.
"The artist flattered him somewhat. His nose is a great deal longer, but otherwise it's a good likeness. His hair is brown, as are his eyes. He'll be wearing simple brown robes most likely and his horse, as you've probably already guessed, is brown."
"The horse answers to 'Chestnut,'" the mage winces visibly at having to share that information. "And the fool apprentice answers to 'Emile.' He was last seen heading east out of town, along the main road. I'm not sure I can add much more in the way of information. Oh, he has about a day's head-start on you."
The mage scowls. "If you are to catch him," his voice seems irritated, "you'll need some sort of transport." He grabs a parchment from the desk and quickly scribbles something down. He adds some brown wax and an imprint of one of his rings and offers the scroll. "This entitles you to collect a horse each from the stables near the east gate. I would appreciate it if you could return them."
He rings a small hand-bell and a plump, middle-aged woman comes bustling in moments later. She does not seem fazed by your presence. "Matilda, could you please pull together some rations for our friends here. Travelling rations. Three days should suffice."
The woman leaves without speaking and siilence falls over the room.
Ellaria eyes Jacques, then speaks slowly. "It seems like this apprentice means a lot to you. You're investing quite a lot of resources on finding him and returning him safely". Thinking about other meanings her words could have, she quickly adds: "You're not wrong to trust us. We", she says, while looking around, "[b]will do our best to find Emile and bring him back as quickly as possible".
"Horses, huh? Pa never much cared fer ridin horses..."
Brayker stands up, excited to be going soon. He shakes out his limbs to get the blood flowin' again.
"Don't you worry, though, I'll treat 'er nice. 'ave 'er back by curfew too!"
We can tuck her in and tell her a story, too, if it proves necessary. Emrys stands as well, accepting the scroll from the wizard's hand.
I'll go on ahead and ensure our mounts are ready to leave as soon as everyone arrives at the east gate. Now don't forget my share of the grub; I'd hate to eat someone else's, and force him to scavenge for grubs. With a slight nod to the rest of the group the inquisitor shows himself out, making directly for the stables.
Hazard's foot taps on the floor, inpatient, waiting to receive his free rations and and to set off to retrieve his reward.
Thelonious' hands are firmly clasped behind his back.
Carbrook returns to his somber stance, and awaits the return of the housekeeper. Once she has supplied the requested rations, he addresses the group. 'I believe time is of the essence; my experience of investigations into missing persons - although this is not a typical case by any means - is that with each passing day, the likelihood of a successful resolution drops'. He looks at Jacques, and says 'I say this not to worry you unduly, merely to warn you of the nature of the task at hand. Witnesses, excuse me, people who may be able to provide information about out quarry will begin to forget details as time passes and other things take over their attention. Physical signs will also deteriorate, making location of the gentleman more problematic by mundane means.
Master Emrys has our key to the horses. As I imagine some of the rest of you may wish to retire to your lodgings and secure any of the tools of your respective trades which you do not currently carry, might I suggest 1 hour at the East Gate to begin the pursuit?'.
Dr. Hazard grunts in agreement. With a tortured grimace of a smile at Jacques and a nod to the rest, Hazard slips out the door to follow Emrys directly to the stables.
Aseve smiles and moves to follow, then stops. She sighs and turns to Brayker. "Brayker, can you get my horse for me? I just remembered I need to summon my eidolon."
Master Emrys has our key to the horses. As I imagine some of the rest of you may wish to retire to your lodgings and secure any of the tools of your respective trades which you do not currently carry, might I suggest 1 hour at the East Gate to begin the pursuit?'.
"Deal."
Aseve smiles and moves to follow, then stops. She sighs and turns to Brayker. "Brayker, can you get my horse for me? I just remembered I need to summon my eidolon."
"Grab my food on yer way out, and it's a deal. I'll see if they ain't got a pony er sumthin." He smiles just slightly at the thought.
Brayker takes off to the horse stables with the others.
Inclining his head respectfully towards Jacques, Carbrook will take his leave. Once outside, he will swiftly return to his lodgings to collect his equipment, before heading to the East Gate.
When he gets there, while acknowledging any of the others who have arrived, he will go to the stables and ask if they recognise Emile, and whether he also requisitioned his horse from there. If he can find anyone who saw him on the day of his departure, Carbrook will see if they remember any details: was he dressed as our description indicates, was he alone, did he seem in good spirits or agitated in any way, did he let slip his destination or reason for going, were there any 'unusual' events that day - even something apparently minor and unconnected?
On the way out, Aseve grabs Brayker's food. She then limps over to a quiet spot, sits down, and begins chanting.
A minute later, there is a flash, and a bizarre creature appears.
It seems to be a great green snake, with a catlike head like a goblin snake's. It is covered with a thin layer of black fuzz. It hisses at Aseve.
It seems to be a great green snake, with a catlike head like a goblin snake's. It is covered with a thin layer of black fuzz. It hisses at Aseve.
Aseve smiles and strokes the snake along its neck. The beast purrs. "Come on, Aseve, we need to get going. I'll explain on the way." She leads her eidolon through the streets, ignoring the stares of passersby.
When she makes it there, she smiles at the others. "I'm ready." She leans against Aseve to wait.
Hazard eyes the creature with Aseve Seeker as it slithers in. Slowly edging forward, he inquires, "What is that?"
Hazard eyes the creature with Aseve Seeker as it slithers in. Slowly edging forward, he inquires, "What is that?"
Aseve smiles. "This is Aseve, my eidolon. He's coming in case we run into any trouble."
As the group starts to congregate at the stables, Earnest asks some questions of the stable-hands and guards there. They all seem to remember Emile and his horse, which was indeed stabled there.
They explain that he left in good spirits and was dressed as he always was - in brown robes. He hadn't indicated a specific destination, but there is only one road out through the swamp and there are villages a day or so apart along its length.
One stable hand remembers he was glancing at a map - something the others couldn't agree or disagree with, but the lad in question didn't get to see what was written on it anyway.
As the group assembles in the stable, you are all aware that the gate indicated by Jacques is actually the main gate of Cassomir. It leads east through the Blackwood Swamp and a bridge crosses the city's moat directly outside the gates.
The stable is conveniently situated next to the gate and is bustling with trade. When you show the letter from Jacques, you are presented with an array of horses and ponies to choose from.
With mounts and supplies sorted, the guards wave you to go through the main gates, its portcullis raised.
As the group assembles in the stable, you are all aware that the gate indicated by Jacques is actually the main gate of Cassomir. It leads east through the Blackwood Swamp and a bridge crosses the city's moat directly outside the gates.
The stable is conveniently situated next to the gate and is bustling with trade. When you show the letter from Jacques, you are presented with an array of horses and ponies to choose from.
With mounts and supplies sorted, the guards wave you to go through the main gates, its portcullis raised.
Aseve glances at her snake. "I'm sorry, I just remembered. Aseve isn't very quick, so I'll have to dispel him for now. I'll leave him until we start going."
The snake stares at her eerily, then starts looking at each of her companions in turn. Aseve taps her cane.Brayker:
Dr. Hazard:
Carbrook:
Emrys:
Ellaria:
Hope I'm not getting annoying with these spoilers.
Oh, and Aseve's Bluff check:
Once at the stables, Brayker collects a horse for himself and a pony for Aseve.
While waiting for the rest of the crew, Brayker sort of gets to know his horse. He has a quiet conversation face to face with the animal. The idea of riding a horse sort of makes him nervous.
"I don't like the idea of ridin' ya any better than you, so let's keep it civil, bub. I respect ya an' everything, but I just don't like my feet bein' too far from the ground. Understand?"
He stares right back at the serpent, eyes locked until he moves on.
"That's a mighty strange pet ya got there."
"Here, I got ya this."
He hands the reign of the pony over to Aseve (the halfling one :P).
Once at the stables, Brayker collects a horse for himself and a pony for Aseve.
While waiting for the rest of the crew, Brayker sort of gets to know his horse. He has a quiet conversation face to face with the animal. The idea of riding a horse sort of makes him nervous.
"I don't like the idea of ridin' ya any better than you, so let's keep it civil, bub. I respect ya an' everything, but I just don't like my feet bein' too far from the ground. Understand?"He stares right back at the serpent, eyes locked until he moves on.
"That's a mighty strange pet ya got there.""Here, I got ya this."
He hands the reign of the pony over to Aseve (the halfling one :P).
Aseve smiles. "Thank you." She takes the reigns but, like Brayker, seems reluctant to climb on.