Any Trouble this morning? I must say I wasn't expecting you to make it, I figured I'd have to cut a way through some trouble for you.
"When have i ever needed help like that,"Asasha replies with a smile, "appart from that time with the twins,.. or that other time, you remember the guy with the parrot,.. or i suppose there was that time with that elf girl and the bald dwarf." Asasha lets loose a giggle "Nah, no problems i couldn't deal with. Escuse me a moment"
With that Asasha jumps up to meet Zariah
she looks in the direction of the sound, seeking its source.
As Zariah approaches the table Asasha jumps to her feet, easily slips past a couple of men who fancy their chances with the dancer, and leaps into Zariah's arms in a tight embrace.
As the young "boy" approaches, you suddenly recognise the figure as Asasha
Still wrapped in Zariah's arms Asasha leans back and laughingly says "Well your dancing hasn't lost any of its potential to grab the boy's attention! I've already got a beer for you, and look who i bought back with me." Asasha indicates Kat sitting awkwardly at the the table, "You should have seen the look on his face when he realised who was dancing! Turned as red as a cooked lobster! Anyway," she continues "we nerver thought we'd see you here, it was just that we got these letter thingies telling us to meet someone here."
With that Asasha pulls a crumpled piece of paper from her pocket, smoothes it out and pushes it across the table to Zariah.
Shol'a'Saul glances behind her as Galrian guides her down the stairs, and sees Asasha greet Zariah openly. Her disguise did not fool her in the slightest, as her facial features were etched into her memory, never to be released. She also realizes Asasha still bears the scars, the scars, a mark of her failure. She wanted to desperately talk to Asasha, but is unsure what to say, so she holds her tongue, and finds a seat in the cramped cellar.
Looks like a whole crowd of people heading downstairs. Stay behind me Asasha, I'm not too sure I like the looks of some of them folks.
Be wary, but confident.I don't think there's much to worry about, and I suppose I don't have to tell you to stay close to the door. Anything happens you just get and we'll meet up in the usual place.
As Katallin gives his instructions Asasha rolls her eyes in a shared joke with Zariah and links arms with the older girl as they all make their way towards the door.
"So what's been going on Zari? The city seems to have changed alot in the last two years."
On entering the cramped space Asasha takes in the other party members. Seeing Shol'a'saul she raises her eyebrow and nudges Zariah.
Having been the first to arrive gave him time to pick a position for all purposes; he would pick a wall or pillar near the door, so as to watch everyone enter, and be the first to get out in case of an emergency. No point in dying in some cellar if I can avoid it.
In fact, he would stare idly at his signet ring - though it looked more and more like an engagement ring if one looked hard enough. He had a faint smile, and crossed his arms afterwards, awaiting the meeting and arrival of those asked - and it seemed like quite a lot from the sounds down the hallway.
He does give a nod towards the elderly male and the elven woman as they enter, generous enough without seeming too polite. He sighed after they passed, and just ran his hand over his robes, smoothing the armored-variant over to look more impressive, one could think.
Where did everyone go? Kyth says when he comes back into the inn while looking aound noticing that quite a few people who were here are now gone.
When Diabinthe responds Kyth will quickly cast message on her so they can communicate just in case things get to interesting to quick, and proceeds towards the cellar doors arm in arm with Diabinthe Ludi padding silently behind her master.
Glad to know there was actually a meeting was starting to think it was some prank. Kyth mutters as they walk down the stairs.
As Galrian passes down Shol´a´Saul behind him, he receives nod from a young man as he pass by him hm... At least this boy has some manners and respect toward older people... but why standing next to door and what is with that face Galrian thinks as he finally sits down but this time there is no emotion being shown... and small cracks of lighting begin to wander around his arm & body
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The cellar door lead to the stairways descending at least two floors bellow the street level. Beneath the inn there is a huge natural cavern obviously adapted to serve as the vine cellar. But at the end of the cavern stands a huge barrel with doors cut inside it. Light shines through the open portal. As soon as you descend down the staircase, a voice with strong Irrisian accent shouts: "Well, what are you waiting for? Get in here!"
Hm.. my bones will be screaming later Galrian mutters to himself, but will stand up and walk inside through portal.
Perception
The cellar door lead to the stairways descending at least two floors bellow the street level. Beneath the inn there is a huge natural cavern obviously adapted to serve as the vine cellar. But at the end of the cavern stands a huge barrel with doors cut inside it. Light shines through the open portal. As soon as you descend down the staircase, a voice with strong Irrisian accent shouts: "Well, what are you waiting for? Get in here!"
"Heh - wanted to ensure we had everyone you'd asked to come. Guess I'll see them on the other side."
With some hesitance, Zeke almost moved to go inside - and then did so. He allowed himself to be wary, and would be following Galrian closely, ensuring he got through safely.
Shol'a'saul notes Galrian having difficulty going down the stairs, and puts a steadying hand on his arm, giving him and extra means of support. She knew he had aged, but she had not realized how much until now. A sense of regret fills her heart. He certainly deserved better.
Once seeing that Zeriah was coming along The Great Katallin's shoulders eased a little. Though he no longer feared a trap if Zeriah was on board he was no less tense. The new tension was a completely unrelated issue. The way I see it it's hard enough to get the drop on one fortune teller, but get the drop on two? I feel as safe as a babe in his mother's arms
The Great Katallin strode down the stairs and walked up to the large barrel. The Great Katallin eyed all the people, now that he was close enough to see them.
To see if he recognizes that Galrian is a cleric and of what goddess.
Blessed be fine Priest of Shelyn. I hope you find beauty this day. The Great Katallin nods a head towards the aged priest and shows him the Desnian Holy symbol that he keeps.
The Great Katallin looks around upon entering the barrel.
Perception:
Shol'a'saul notes Galrian having difficulty going down the stairs, and puts a steadying hand on his arm, giving him and extra means of support. She knew he had aged, but she had not realized how much until now. A sense of regret fills her heart. He certainly deserved better.
Ah, thank you Shol. Help is always appreciated Galrian thanks with a small squeeze against her hand. Inside, he will find a seat to sit and watches, while new people are coming inside. A big man then soon steps in hm... a big fellow and so young. Fighter also it seems while looking and noticing big falchion on his back.
Galrian raise his left eyebrown little bit when the man turns and addresses him
Blessed be fine Priest of Shelyn. I hope you find beauty this day. The Great Katallin nods a head towards the aged priest and shows him the Desnian Holy symbol that he keeps.
hm.... interesting. An adept aspiring to become a crusader? and top of that of Desna. Seems to have also brains with brawns Galrian weights the young man with sharp eyes and judges with years of experience Thank you, priest of Desna. May the Lady of Luck smile upon you and dreams be pleasant. Garlian speaks to man and gives nod of approval to younger priest
Shol'a'saul notes Galrian having difficulty going down the stairs, and puts a steadying hand on his arm, giving him and extra means of support. She knew he had aged, but she had not realized how much until now. A sense of regret fills her heart. He certainly deserved better.
Ah, thank you Shol. Help is always appreciated Galrian thanks with a small squeeze against her hand. Inside, he will find a seat to sit and watches, while new people are coming inside. A big man then soon steps in hm... a big fellow and so young. Fighter also it seems while looking and noticing big falchion on his back.
Galrian raise his left eyebrown little bit when the man turns and addresses him
Blessed be fine Priest of Shelyn. I hope you find beauty this day. The Great Katallin nods a head towards the aged priest and shows him the Desnian Holy symbol that he keeps.
hm.... interesting. An adept aspiring to become a crusader? and top of that of Desna. Seems to have also brains with brawns Galrian weights the young man with sharp eyes and judges with years of experience Thank you, priest of Desna. May the Lady of Luck smile upon you and dreams to be pleasant. Garlian speaks to man and gives nod of approval to younger priest
Asasha blinks as they enter the large cavern, still arm-in-arm with Zariah, and chatting idly about events of the past two years. Although she seems to have her attention focused soley on Zariah, anyone who's paying attention can see that she's scanning the surroundings and the other prople in the area constantly.
As the Irrisian voice calls out Asasha shrugs at Zariah, indicating that she'll follow the older girl's lead.
Where did everyone go? Kyth says when he comes back into the inn while looking around noticing that quite a few people who were here are now gone.
When Diabinthe responds Kyth will quickly cast message on her so they can communicate just in case things get to interesting to quick, and proceeds towards the cellar doors arm in arm with Diabinthe Ludi padding silently behind her master.
Glad to know there was actually a meeting was starting to think it was some prank. Kyth mutters as they walk down the stairs.
Well don't see a talking barrel everyday now do you? Kyth says jokingly as they arrive in the cellar just in time to hear the barrel apparently tell them to enter.
Well let's see who our mysterious sender is shall we? He says with a smile as he and Diabinthe walk together into the barrel.
Perception:
As she recognizes Asasha’s pretty face and slender form, Zariah lights up with genuine joy, her arms flying open to catch Asasha in a tight heartfelt embrace. As she holds her tightly laughing with the surprise and joy of seeing her again, she grins at her comment, looking over to Katallin to flash a grin at another unexpected familiar face.
Her elation flicckers momentarily as she catches a glimpse of Shol’a’saul, the elven woman’s lovely face bringing back memories as painful as the joyful ones she experienced seconds before. If anything she held Asasha a little more closely for a moment, determined not to spoil a joyful reunion with morbid thoughts.
“It’s so good to see you Asha, getting in trouble with Kat again after all these years? You look so different, at least until the mischievous grin.”
Chatting and laughing she allows herself to be led along. At the letter she produces one of her own from somewhere within her cloak. “I found this in my room last night. I never expected that this would be the result. There’s definitely something in the cards tonight.” She mutters quietly.
Nodding in agreement to Asasha’s questioning look she walks arm in arm with the other girl down the stairs noting the tension in the other people also making their way down and taking Katallin’s reading to heart glancing at the black clad men.
Leaning closer she whispers to Asasha, “Be careful Asha, this could go in either direction, I can tell you’ve gotten even more…capable but stay close ok?”
Her tone carries a slight hint of protectiveness that is almost plaintive. Not a common tone for the sultrily confident woman.
As more people get inside, Galrian.. gets little bit relaxed and start to be more like... his old self with all these pretty jewels in cellar.. If I were young, I would say "damn... alot of booty today.. goddess have surely blessed me... but might as well play it now more properly Galrian coughs little bit to clean his throath and then begings his speech Well, alot of young people here today and seems like there is alot of beauty... what have all of you done to get here... or rather, what give us honor to be called here? as Galrian directs his speech to everyone and to men in black
Diplomacy
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The room behind the doorway in the barrel is large rectangular chamber with bare walls and massive rough table in the middle. There are perhaps forty seats around it, equally massive and comfortable-looking, even if they are made just from wood. Oak, most probably. Tall warrior has taken a seat at the head of the table and the man in the robes remained standing beside him.
"Welcome", said the warrior, Irrisian accent coloring his words. "You have all received invitations, I hope? Please, take a seat."
Kristophe nervously takes a seat, not making eye contact with anyone. 'well he did technically receive an invitation, just not the normal way'.
Beauty? Is he talking about me? Shol'a'Saul glances at Galrian, wondering just who he was talking about. Her musing are cut off by the arrival of the Irrisian warrior. She thinks about her destiny and whether it is here and now, she focuses on the warriors words as best she can.
With some hesitance, Ezekiel does find his way to a seat - but first, he clears his throat and pulls out a piece of ritual chalk, probably from his pouch of components. He'd decided that here and now was the best place to pull her from her safe keeping, thus ensuring everyone was here.
"If you don't mind, I'll be bringing forth my significant other - she should hear what you have to say just as much as I do."
He clears his throat again, and begins.
"Oh lord of time, keeper of the mystic waters, I wish to bring forth a lost soul in your hold. I yearn to but borrow her for a time - for her time on this plane was short-lived, and I know she cannot return for good. I utter forth her name, so she might appear in front of me - my dearest Valeria!"
At the end of this small incant, a small circle appears beside him, From it, what appears akin to a summoning spell, a woman-like figured ascends, and takes shape - when this has taken hold, she appears to be fully human. Her hair is long, flowing black, luxurious and beautiful in its own way. Her skin is fair, and her eyes are darkened with coal, but it only enhances her looks. A long, flowing red dress appears to be her garb, and she gives a warm smile before joining hands with Ezekiel.
They sit down besides each other, taking spaces at a midway of the table between the entrance and the men. He can be seen whispering to her with a very, very genuine smile, and it's easy to tell he is in love with this conjured person as they whisper, and they give each other one simple kiss.
Zeke: "I missed you truly, my love."
Valeria: "Just as I you."
Zeke: "All will be well now, that I have you at my side."
Perception
hm... summoning spell? Interesting... but dead person... he should not be powerful enough to have true resurrection skill .... and I can not sense an ounce divine power on him... maybe one of those summoners I have heard... but this is odd... to love his own summon... but as Shelyn teaches, where is love, is happiness
Galrian is looking how the another man is beginning to summon and from nowhere woman is appearing. The reaction after that and whispers, which he notices, he smiles to himself and gives an almost unnoticeable nod to summoner along a small blessing
Take a seat sure why not? Kyth says with a shrug as he takes an open seat after pulling one out for Diabinthe.
Perception:
She stares at the summoning the young man has performed, and studies the creature cloaked in the form of a lovely human female. Something stirs in her heart on seeing this, but hen it disappears under the surface, as if it never existed. She turns to Galrian, a questioning look in her eyes.
Kyth says with a shrug as he takes an open seat after pulling one out for Diabinthe.
The Great Katallin is about to sit, but upon seeing this he pulls out a chair for Zeriah.... and as an after thought one for Asasha as wellWhat is wrong with me? I never act like this. The Great kattalin will sit in the next seat that is closer to the two men clothed in black whether it is next to Zeriah(he hopes), or Asasha, so that he will be between them and any trouble.
Perhaps you will enlighten me as to why you have summoned The Great Katallin?
Perception:
I wasn't sure about the pair with the dog, I'm really not sure what to think about them The Great Katallin muses over the odd couple at the table. Proceed with caution but confidence, the cards never lie.
As Ezekiel begins his summoning Asasha pauses to observe the strange event, and the apparation being brought into existance. Ok... well that's a little weird! she thinks. As she turns her attention away from the summoner an all together stranger sight greeets her: - Kat pulling a chair out for Zariah. Stifling a laugh Asasha starts to sit and, as Kat moves to pull out a chair for her aswell she gives him a very strange look... After a slight pause she curtsies, and in a very exagerated noble accent says.
Well thaaank yoou good sir kniight. Neever haas a laaidy beeen treeated wiith suuch a fiine and nooble maanners. Perhaaps awfter this siillyness we can go for a tuurn about the rose gaarden?
With that she smiles and sits cross-legged in the chair and leans back to await developments.
The Great Katallin, who does this guy think he is? Kyth thinks silently to him self.
Yes, as he said what exactly are we here for? I assume that we weren't brought here for a social visit. What is it you would like from us since we all seem to be from Korvosa at some point it would seem you need some people who know their way around.
Diplomacy:
The smile that comes across Zariah's face is a mixture of graceful acceptance and amusement, the latter of which seems to sparkle in her eyes as she exchanges a girlish glance with Asasha, obviously holding her mirth in check.
As the woman coalesces before Ezekiel, she raises an eyebrow in surprise, tilting her head slightly to observe.
She takes the proferred seat as the others array themselves waiting for the men to speak.
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A huge albino half-orc enters the room and closes the door behind him. Bulging with muscles, he looks almost like a force of nature rather than person. His many braids are decorated with bits of bone and animal claws and his prominent tusks with gold rings. There are two inward-curved knives at his belt and two strange inward-curved swords on his back. "They were not followed, Vanya. But that one", he points at Kristof, "he doesn't belong here."
Warrior with bastard sword raises his eyebrow and just looks at the man in question.
Kristoph looks frantically to his right and then his left..."Who Me"? "Of course I belong here...look here's my invitation". He presents the tattered piece of paper.
"I...I...I mean". "Well the person who provided the invitation won't be using it...and I...I...I mean I had nothing to do with his giving it up, I just...well...". "OK". "Look". "I found this on a dead guy...I didn't kill him, but I...well...I need to change my life, and...Just give me a chance".
As distracted as he'd like to be with his lover in tow now, he looks to the half-orc and gives a smile, shaking his head and giving a small sigh. He clears his throat, and sits up.
"Now, I think that's a good reason, sir - for everyone deserves a chance to prove themselves, if you ask me. I should say another pair of hands is never a problem - but that's just me and my youth trying to be wise."
"Of course, now that I think about it, most of us are here if not all of us - so I'll be the first to introduce myself. My name is Ezekiel, and this is my lover, Valeria, as some of you might have heard - I can only praise Desna for my good fortune, and I hope it will stay that way."
He'd give a smile and wink at his 'love', who then smiles and lays her head on his shoulder. She doesn't seem to say much, but he coils his arm around her shoulders and keeps her close.
Diplomacy
I say we let him stay after all if his predecessor couldn't even live to get here I don't really want him guarding my back. After all if it turns out he did kil your guy or he is a traitor we can always kill him then. Kyth says dryly drawing Fury just a few inches and tries not to laugh and fails ruining the attempt with a snicker.
Intimidate
Well if we are introducing our selves the names Kytvanath, or you can call my Kyth as well. Beside me is my Wife Diabinthe, and the four footed begger is her wolf Ludi. He says as he stands from his chair and puts his hand on Diabinthes shoulder before sitting back down and leaning back in his chair and throwing his leg over one side.
Asasha leans back in her chair watching the exchange between the men. leaning over to Zariah she whispers...
Otherwise she remains silent, waiting to see how "Vanya" reacts.
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"Oh, very well. Grim-Grim would have killed you if he thought that you did some evil, anyway." Irrisan shrugs. "We call ourselves the Black Company. Some of us ended Ileosa's reign of terror, some of us went to the Spires of Xin-Shalast to end an ancient evil. The Mad Queen's rein destroyed much of this city's capability to defend itself, both from those who want to gorge themselves on its soul from the inside and those from the outside who want this city to perish. None of us is native of Korvosa, but all of us came to love this city - and we want to defend it. That's why we decided to establish a society of Korvosa's born and adopted sons and daughters, society dedicated to preserving this city against all threats. We call it the Hourglass Society. And you, well some of you", he looks at Kristof, "have been invited to become parts of it. Do you accept?"
Shol' a'Saul listened to the man's words, whil a confusing tulmult of thoughts flowed in her mind. She closes her eyes and her hand reaches to touch her familiar. The Covey had advised her to hide the presence of him, as his kind was not looked on with favor. The sense of confusion is echoes in him as well. She looks over to Galrian, and sees he is contemplating their offer quietly as well.
Was this the destiny the Covey referred her to? While she was not originally from Korvosa, she had to admit she has come to love the city. The recent trials the city experienced were only just beginning she guessed. Glancing at all the others in here, she knew some, and yet others were unknown to her. Maybe a chance here to make amends?Although still full of doubts, she knows a decision still must be given.
"I accept."
So they want us to join their little club. Sounds like a pain, but if they new my father then maybe this could be worth it anyway.
Kyth muses to himself silently.
Just tell me one thing sir, did you know of a man named Baden an eldritch knight who used to run a combat school in town? He was murdered about 4 years ago.
Diplomacy:
"Oh, very well. Grim-Grim would have killed you if he thought that you did some evil, anyway." Irrisan shrugs. "We call ourselves the Black Company. Some of us ended Ileosa's reign of terror, some of us went to the Spires of Xin-Shalast to end an ancient evil. The Mad Queen's rein destroyed much of this city's capability to defend itself, both from those who want to gorge themselves on its soul from the inside and those from the outside who want this city to perish. None of us is native of Korvosa, but all of us came to love this city - and we want to defend it. That's why we decided to establish a society of Korvosa's born and adopted sons and daughters, society dedicated to preserving this city against all threats. We call it the Hourglass Society. And you, well some of you", he looks at Kristof, "have been invited to become parts of it. Do you accept?"
Kristophe his pride coming around now that he had been found out, raises his head and makes eye contact with the men. "While not invited, I can offer you an advantage that my unfortunate benefactor cannot...I still breathe". "And, looking aside for a moment...how's the pay"?
Zariah leans in to Asasha.
Asasha
"I know, this is a very interesting group. What do you think? It's one hell of a coincidence. Almost like these people have been watching us for years. Do you think they might know something about....well, your mother?"
She reaches over and gives Asasha's hand a reassurring squeeze.
"Well its an intersting idea," Asasha pipes up from her seat half way down the table. "I'd like to know a bit more about it before joining any sort of "society". After all, we really have no idea who you are or what this group is actually supposed to do. Perhaps you'd like to tell us a bit more – for a start, how did you find us, and why were we selected – It's a pretty strange group you've bought together."
With that Asasha leans back and waits for a reply.
Knowledge local – do i recognise the name "Baden an eldritch knight" – from Kythvanath
Knowledge local - do i recognise "The Black Company", "Grim-Grim" or "Vanya"
The cards seem to say I should join. I'm not fond of staying anywhere too long, even here in what was once my home. Desna teaches us to protect those who are unable to protect themselves. You have the Great Katallin's sword.
The cards seem to say I should join. I'm not fond of staying anywhere too long, even here in what was once my home. Desna teaches us to protect those who are unable to protect themselves. You have the Great Katallin's sword.
"Well i guess that means that i'm in too." says Asasha glancing past Zariah at Katallin "Who knows what you're getting us into, but it does sound like fun. "Asasha turns back to Vanya,"I'd still like an answer to my questions. How about you Zariah? - Feel like getting the old crew back together?"
Zariah raises a delicately arched eyebrow at Katallin's statement and smiles at Asasha's question.
"The downtrodden and forgotten of this city are constsntly abused by those who think us beneath notice. If your cause will fight this then I'll join."
She shakes her head.
"Who would have thaught this morning that we'd be running around getting into trouble again by nightfall?"
Zariah raises a delicately arched eyebrow at Katallin's statement and smiles at Asasha's question.
"The downtrodden and forgotten of this city are constsntly abused by those who think us beneath notice. If your cause will fight this then I'll join."
She shakes her head.
"Who would have thaught this morning that we'd be running around getting into trouble again by nightfall?"
I for one knew you two would be getting me in trouble as soon as we made the decision to come back The Great Katallin says smiling to his two old companions. Too bad Kaz isn't here too.
Galrian sits and watch while everyone are speaking, absorbing information and trying to make as much sense as possible. So, we have here a non-invited, summoner with his "lover", a man of desna with 3rd way of speaking, elves, a dancer, girl on boy´s clothes, a witch and an old man... and to name us Hourglass society. Seems like Shelyn really plays her games with me... and such a name... Referring to passing time..
I... see the idea here and I can admit it to be great goal. The questions however... good gentlemen, are more interesting thing here. Why excatly we? What part do each of us represent here? Protecting Korvosa is goal of worthy and this city has suffered alot, but I can´t see it as completely as a goal of noble purpose. I have traveled wide and abroad of this world and just was thinking of coming back, when recently got this letter to arrive here. I am old already... compared to other so I am little bit more spectic about these things and would like to know more than that.
Galrian stops for a while and look at Irrisan: However, I admit what you have said, since I come originally from this city and feel it as my home. I feel like as a oldest person -but as experienced, I can´t say- that there is balance to be maintained... and as Shelyn has guided me so far, I will then promptly accept the offer to join and see that it will fill its purpose
Diplomacy
He looks around the table, listening to all the responses given. He has a warm smile as he stands, and places his letter on the table.
"I for one, do not understand your wish to call me as well - I had prepared to vacate Korvosa in search of something dear to me, so I do say, I would love to know more. In the meantime, I would accept as well, but the task itself needs more clarity before I can give a true answer. I cannot easily place my faith in the hands of others - surely you can understand?"
He seems to be very relaxed as he rests his hands on the table, and looks at the letter. He then continues.
"To ask me to defend this city is something I am for, however. It was an ideal that Valeria believed in, and I shall, too, carry it forth. In return, I only ask a personal favor, which we may discuss at a later date. Is this acceptable?"
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So they want us to join their little club. Sounds like a pain, but if they new my father then maybe this could be worth it anyway.
Kyth muses to himself silently.
Just tell me one thing sir, did you know of a man named Baden an eldritch knight who used to run a combat school in town? He was murdered about 4 years ago.
Diplomacy:1d20 + 6
"It doesn't sound familiar to me. You should understand, none of us is native to Korvosa."
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"Well its an intersting idea," Asasha pipes up from her seat half way down the table. "I'd like to know a bit more about it before joining any sort of "society". After all, we really have no idea who you are or what this group is actually supposed to do. Perhaps you'd like to tell us a bit more – for a start, how did you find us, and why were we selected – It's a pretty strange group you've bought together."
With that Asasha leans back and waits for a reply.
** spoiler omitted **
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He looks around the table, listening to all the responses given. He has a warm smile as he stands, and places his letter on the table.
"I for one, do not understand your wish to call me as well - I had prepared to vacate Korvosa in search of something dear to me, so I do say, I would love to know more. In the meantime, I would accept as well, but the task itself needs more clarity before I can give a true answer. I cannot easily place my faith in the hands of others - surely you can understand?"
He seems to be very relaxed as he rests his hands on the table, and looks at the letter. He then continues.
"To ask me to defend this city is something I am for, however. It was an ideal that Valeria believed in, and I shall, too, carry it forth. In return, I only ask a personal favor, which we may discuss at a later date. Is this acceptable?"
"It is."