"Manricus was eventually murdered on the orders of Emperor Calatorian so it is unlikely any would be especially keen to claim him as their ancestor. But I do not recall reading that his family was arrested and killed so he almost certainly has descendents, whether they know of the link or not. He was a priest of Hextor so the church may be a better source of his secrets."
Cassia walks on a little bit then, not directly addressing Gravus.
"I wonder if there is a dwarf or elf still living in Loutharnium who might actually remember these events."
"Manricus was a war priest of Hextor and Imperial Governor in this region more than two centuries ago. Ambitious, ruthless and able he maintained his responsibilities to both the church and the Emperor. Then there came a great storm from the Forest of Adria, a horde of goblinoids and other creatures, clans that had been enemies for generations banding together and spilling out of the deep woods bringing fire and sword."
"A vexillatio of the ninth legion was broken and Pulvis Pontum given up to the sack. With only the second legion and what was left of the ninth Manricus did not have sufficient forces to overcome the horde and reluctantly sought aid from neighbouring provinces. Not a popular man, he received many promises and no troops and the horde, recovering its purpose after the frenzy of bloodletting at the fall of Pulvis Pontum advanced on Loutharnium where at that time Manricus had his seat."
"Manricus called on Hextor of the Four Arms for aid and aid came, a huge band of orcish mercenaries, almost a legion in strength. Manricus promised them gold and riches and they took the field with the legions and met fury with fury, savagery with savagery, acting as hammer to the anvil of the disciplined ranks of the second and the survivors of the ninth who fought for vengeance as well as pride. There are those who say that Manricus betrayed the orcs in the moment of victory, for certain their leaders were killed in the fighting, to ensure that the victory was his and his alone. Those leaders of the goblin horde who were not slain Manricus took into captivity, treating them with more respect than such creatures warrant, and he settled the orcs who survived in Loutharnium such that to this day there are more orcs and half orcs within its walls than is right."
"For a year after the battle of Loutharnium, there was quiet from the Adrian Forest and then the creatures emerged again, but this time swearing fealty to Manricus and the Emperor above him. Those governors and nobles who had refused him aid when he needed it fell victim to what was first thought to be a strange illness but was eventually revealed as the Seven Paces poison, and their lands subjected to the predations of his goblinoid allies. Whether it was this flouting of the law, an ambition that new no bounds, the rumours that he was no longer the master of the goblins but the reverse or simply petty spite, the Emperor Calatorian had Manricus killed, slain in the Imperial City by the son of one of his victims."
Valka will help train Cassia in using a shield the right way: Valka is kinda good at it too!! She tells Cassia as they practice:
"The Lanista that try and betray me and make a gladiator amazon out of me teach me this style. Its simple but really efficient: sword and shield. He called it the Murmillones. Apparently it means fish-man. Not sure what's the relation but its a good style for mixing attack and protection"
If Valka sees Cassia training with that hobgoblin hag spear, she also offers to help, using her own (better I imagine) throwing javelin. She tells Cassia:
"Tall like you are you should be really good at it!"
(did Valka sound just a bit envious cuz she's kinda petite?)
"Its not about pure strength but the full movement of the body. And good legs like yours will help a lot too!"
(did Valka check out Cassia's legs? LOL)
Valka will try to help out with the little baby even if its CLEAR the caring mother instinct side is NOT her thing! But otherwise yes she will tell Gravus to take care of him as best he can.
When everyone speaks about Manricus she says:
"The city is NOT my thing so I'll let you all decide about that. But whatever we do let's make is FAST! No beating around the bush and taking extra precautions! Veleda doesn't have much time! If we enter the city do you know where we can put our weapons since its not allowed?"
For the coins Valka is okay with that.
Other things she would say at some point:
- For the Crystal Ball she thinks we should sell it and divide the profits from that.
- All the alchemy stuff she says Gravus should keep it so he can keep being useful to me his Domina and the others indirectly
- The witchcraft stuff we should sell and split too
- The scrolls Valka wants to keep somewhere safe just in case (never hurts to have proof right?)
- she wants to still do what she told Ballio about hiring criers (like that fat guy in HBO ROME) and entertainers (again like in HBO ROME: the people that did the raunchy plays). She wants to send them to Pulvis Pontum. Maybe Loutharnium after depending on how things go. Valka tells Bjarturius this would be good to give us a reputation so patricians and those kind of people think twice before messing with us. She ask Bjarturius if he would share that cost with her (of course we would make us two the HEROES in all of it). If Titus or Cassia wanna be part of that she isnt against it at all: she just wont ask thinking they wouldnt wanna be linked to lowly peregrinus like us :)
Rough Guide to Loutharnium
A busy, prosperous town with a population in the thousands, so a gigantic place for the barbarians used to calling a collection of a dozen mud huts a city. Its ruler is the Emperor's nephew, Rivandrius Ividius Naelax and it says here in the guide that he is beloved of his people, honest and merciful.
Most of the city is on the other (west) side of the River Flamia, a pallisaded village is built on the east side which provides ferry service to cross the river and a few taverns. The centre of Loutharnium, 'Old Loutharnium' is surrounded by an old stone wall and contains all the civic buildings (except the Colisseum which is outside the city); the craft district (Laxium) and the port facilities are also within the city walls with a human slum (the Disticum) and a slum for humanoids (Fremitum) sprawling out around the city proper.
Traditional Loutharnium industries are river traffic, boat building and fleecing strangers. For leisure as well as the colisseum there is an amphitheatre, public baths, assorted grog shops and taverns and the time honoured past-time of 'getting into a fight and running away from the watch'. The watch in Loutharnium is not known for subtlety, employing full-blood orcs as well as half-bloods and humans.
Practicing with Valka, Cassia accepts the compliments politely.
"As a girl, I read of the amazons. When I became a woman, I put away childish ideas."
When Valka out-throws her (again).
"Are there truly many of you Coruskian women who fight as men?"
When Valka makes the proposals about selling/dividing the loot, Cassia points out that the witch craft items are a) probably valueless and b) likely only sellable to a witch anyway. She doesn't say anything about the Eye, but it's reasonably clear she doesn't agree about selling it.
"As long as you do not mention my part, hire anyone you like to sing your praises if you think rescuing a few plebians from misfortune is worth such."
Bjarturius is indeed more stunned when he sees Cassia suddenly appear immaculate, then by a blow from one of his enemies… He hesitates a moment at the door of Ferto’s house, and upon entering registers that Cassia’s cloak suddenly rests on his powerful arm… After a brief moment of hesitation, he accepts it... until he discards both his and her cloaks on a chair, and tells the story of the Trial of the Temple that the Lord of Might sent him and his companions. He physically shows the fight as it happened (not very well artistically, but more to physically impress the couple, and because he just enjoys doing so), and finally shows the tablet.
When later claiming the curse reward with Nikanor, he is uncharacteristically quiet, as if his mind is elsewhere: probably with his sister. Only when Nikanor makes his licentious proposal is he jolted, and he loudly snorts then lets a long exhalation, looking first at Nikanor then finally at Cassia. Evidently not used to complex interplays of emotions, he seems too bewildered then to react to Nikanor’s jests, and rounds up the coins in silence. As he is leaving, he suddenly stops before the entrance and, straightening with resolve, turns back to look at Nikanor, saying:
“Te Lort of Might helps those who show bravery Nikanor! His trials make us petter men, in Life ant Deafh! And His trial inclutet you! Maype one day I come back claim tat friendship, and your courage vill pe neetet to help puild a shrine to Korud, even if oters oppose it!”
He then steps out, satisfied with that vision, a hint of a smile returning...
Sergio: With his share of the treasure, Titus upgrades to the banded mail, though he haggles for a better price. These backwater merchants have a habit of over-valuing what travlers want.
Cassia: Titus losses his smile when she asks about what the old priest said. "Little good comes from calling the gods attention to you and certainly I do not want to repeat the black prayer his lips uttered. We have enough hardship already without calling more attention to ourselves."
"Why would you wish to know such a thing? You or not of his type, are you?"
Bjarturius: You notice the change from our earlier interaction, where Titus seemed much more closed to the idea of the Gods. Maybe in this short time, his example is already finding way to heart of this brash legionnaire.
"His type? I do not sacrifice to Erythnul, if that is your meaning. Nemesis, her younger sister though, goddess of punishment and humbled pride, she I listen to in my heart. I am sure she would not mind if I use the tools of her sibling. Telling me what you recall might prevent me...experimenting."
Cassia says this last with a half smile, though whether this is because she is joking, or because the idea amuses her is hard to say.
"Does the honour role of the Fifth say any more of the aftermath of the Battle of Loutharnium? Was Manricus in direct command of the Legion, or merely the civil authority?"
Cassia seems to have found a topic that Titus does not find amusing. What would you do if I told you the foul invocation of the eye? The thing is better destroyed, not sold, and certainly not toyed with. Surely the misery it has visited on the barbarians sister is proof of this.
When Cassia and Valka are practicing, continuing that talk. Valka looks a Cassia with the kind of look that tells you she is almost more talking to herself:
"I don't really know. Our village was in the empire and people like me, and I think Bjarturius too, have always been peregrinus. Me I've never seen the land of my people to be honest! And I wasn't even raised to be a warrior!!"
(she say with a weird kind of chuckle)
"The first time I used a weapon was when I bashed the skull of that Priest of Nerull. After it was that scum lanista Valerius that teach me how to fight. I guess I got a gift for it cuz I picked it up very quick. Maybe its in the blood of us Coruskian women?"
I dont know if Valka is there when Titus and Cassia talk about this. But WHATEVER it is for sure Valka would at some point get back to the issue of the Crystal Ball (I'll try to keep it neutral as if I don't really know that last exchange - still not sure wat's "good role-playing" in situations like that!). Valka would say:
"I still say the Eye should be sold. It is an item of a God of the Empire, it should be worth a lot I'm sure!"
Cassia makes a dismissive gesture.
"Phh. The girl was poisoned, and 'twas the imp which cursed the people of Eburacum. A sword is just a lump of metal with an edge until you use it to commit murder, why should this be any different? To answer your question, were you to tell me what the priest said, I'd try it out and see if I could duplicate the effect. But, I won't ask again if it bothers you."
Turning to Valka.
"And just who would you sell it to? And how would you decide how much to ask for it?"
As the group starts their journey to Loutharnium before sunrise, Bjarturius stops when he sees the sun appearing on the horizon, and says to his companions:
“Tis is the time to take heart! Choin me in te Strengfh Prayer… To gife homage to te Lort of Might! Shov your strengfh to Him so His strengfh can shine pack on you like te light of te sun! ”
He finds a suitable place for Veleda, making sure she is comfortable and can rest well. Then moving 30 feet away, he strips off of his armour and clothes so the sun can shine on him, steps on a large rock and, extending his arms wide and looking at the sky, addresses the sky:
“By Korud! Ve hafe only one life! Vill ve go half-asleep in it?! Or vill ve take our place in te world, as Korud tells us, efen if many oppose us?! Tis is te gift of Korud to us! Te strengfh to lift mountains!”
To show this, he steps down from the rock weighing probably more than his own weight, and after carefully grabbing it, slowly lifts it in a huge effort until it is above his head. He keeps it there, smiling under the strain in the sunrise light, and finally throws it aside in an exhilarated giant heave.
He then jovially urges those of his companions who want to join him in doing athletics, the gift of Kord permitting them to capture for themselves a tiny part of His mighty Strength. "Korud promist us a gift, put te trial is our ovn! As chossen of Korud, I shov it to you so you too can grov stronker!" If they participate, he goes from one to another and shows them how to do the exercises even while injured…
He is very direct and physical, first showing on his body which muscles are exercised, then not hesitating to move someone’s limbs to put them in the right positions so his companions get it, while helping them finish repetitions by encouraging them (doing more than them usually)… There just seems to be no limit to his strength as he revels in the effort, alternating fitness and strength exercises at a strong pace, using his giant club as well as rocks, trees, and other natural elements as help in strengthening and stretching, with almost no pause between exercises:
"In te beginning, Korud gafe te gift of Athletics to us, and told te first one who became his Priest tat in combat, tere is no time to rest, and so Korud’s Strengfh Prayer is like one long preafh of unproken effort until te end, and you are fictorious, or dead!"
At the end of the strenuous effort, he warmly praises in his deep booming voice all who participated earnestly:
“Korud’s sees all efforts, and vill revard you for all of tem!”, as he touches briefly the symbol on his powerful chest.
If there is a stream nearby he takes his giant club with him and goes to take a quick refreshment, not too far from the club. He then lets the sun dry his body, resting on a flat rock, after eating a bit finally dons back his clothes and armor, ready to go for the day.
Unless it is impossible to do so he will always do his sunrise prayer in one way or another. From now on he'll invite his companions, although not in an intrusive way...
The talk on the crystal ball: Valka considers well and long what both Titus and Cassia said. She speaks of it again only later, making sure everyone is there:
"About the crystal ball I thought about it and I changed my mind about selling it. I don't think we should. I say we let Cassia keep it for now. But decisions about it will be made together, like a council..."
Valka has something clear in her mind when she says this, but she looks at Cassia, guessing by how she acted so far that probably won't be the way she sees things, so she thinks about it some more and adds:
"... like the senate decides things together."
About Bjarturius sunrise prayer and offer to exercise, she agrees to that very happily. She takes off armor and clothes to train, but keeping the equivalent of a bikini like she did in her Gladiator training: Valerius told her Amazon women wore those to train.
She tells Bjarturius when she is ready:
"I'll let you lift mountains! But for me I'm all for keeping strong and fit and fast! You can count me in every sunrise!"
Are we arriving at Loutharnium on the evening of the third day? Or morning of the fourth? If it's evening, then I'd suggest we enter the city and either cross the river and find accommodation in the River Port or stay overnight in the village on this bank. (Would it be possible to rent an appartment in an insula? It would guarantee us privacy and provide a place to store things - though I can't imagine they rent by the day so may be a moderately substantial outlay). Cassia buys the mule, paying the whole cost if no one else contributes - although she expects someone else to lead it and look after it - and stores her bedding, supplies and spare clothes in its saddlebags.
Cassia suggests that we should avoid the Laxium in the first instance, it's unlikely she'd be immediately recognised but the unusual nature of the group (she arches an eyebrow sardonically) might attract attention. We would also do well to hire or buy a local who can, for example, find the temple to Four Armed Hextor, or tell us where there is a well known witch who might be in the market for buying some second hand ingredients (another sardonic (but not unfriendly) glance at Valka).
At Valka's mention of the senate she sighs.
"Perhaps not quite like the senate, where those who cannot be intimidated can be bought and few any more think of anything beyond their own wealth and greed."
Regarding planning for actions in Loutharnium.
"The girl's illness is dire and though the search may be futile, if you are to save her it must be undertaken urgently while my own target will still be there in a few days time. However, consider this. The Vulpus Nigrus have contacts, gold and knowledge which could be used and may shorten your search. Cut off its head, and the body is yours to do with as you wish."
Valka kinda KNEW trying to make it more "Empire like" for Cassia would still not convince her fully!! It shows in my face but I just say:
"I'll take that answer like you agree with the idea."
Valka sighs: this Cassia is one difficult lady to deal with! She looks at Titus and Bjarturius:
"Are you okay with it? If you have like STRONG objections I won't mind."
Valka agrees to share in the mule buying and tells Gravus he can put any excess stuff there. He also has to take care of it of course.
For what to do in Loutharnium she says:
"If this is one of those things where we can kill 2 birds with one stone I'm all for doing it so we can get a chance at that cure for Veleda! Plus I don't want a bunch of thieves after us or in our way or us having to be extra careful at every step cuz of them while we try to find a cure!"
Gravus watches Bjarturius' worship while he prepares breakfast and readies the packs for travel, the dwarf is clearly no stranger to exertion, but to the practical nature of his people, exercise is achieved through the pursuit of other meaningful goals, it is not a goal in and of itself. Still, he does not dismiss the idea out of hand, there is something about the large priest and his beliefs that connects to the dwarven slave on some level.
He puts the conflict aside however, and busies himself with his morning duties.
At first when the group starts talking about the loot, and then the reward, it seemed Bjarturius was always busy taking care of his sister… But he listened nonetheless to the claims each made. Finally, after the stay at Rufinus’ and the Strength prayer, he says while the group travels:
“Apout vhat ve fount, and te revard. I tink if you do sometink, and risk sometink, and shov yourself true in te trial of te Lort, not like a covard, ten you can claim first some of te loot or te revard!
He looks down to his feeble sister resting in his arms, as he continues walking:
“I hafe prought tis curse on my sister, py pringing tis curset Eye of Erytnul in here!” He raises his head to look at the group, while walking. "Te varrior-maiten and I can claim it... pecause I hafe prought it pack from te temple vhere it vas kept... ant I vounted te real Tiagoras... ant te varrior-maiten killt him... Te only reason I hafe not destroyet it is pecause vhat you sait, Cassia!” He looks at her, brow furrowing a bit. “You knov very much, apout te poison… And you talkt apout tis Manricus, you also knov very good… So you say maype in Loutarnium ve can fint te children of his children, and maype tey knov te cure, or tey know tis Erkin?... Ant ve can also kill tis man you don't like and you hafe a debt or sometink... Te man vho sent you to help after Nikanor asket him... ”
He pauses, looks at the sky a moment, then continues:
"If tis man is te trial te Lort of Might sents us, ten I vill help you against him... And if he knovs apout te poison, or te koplins and he leats us to Erkin, ant ve hafe to exchange te Eye for te cure, ten I vill do it! Ant ven she is curet, ten I vill put an end to tis Trial The Lort of Might sent us!"
"Cassia Aquila," Cassia corrects Bjartorius.
Speaking slowly, she continues.
"Domineus Viusenius may be my trial. It may even be that Kord has twisted our trials together, you would know better than I. But Viusenius knows nothing of goblins, the Eye or the poison. A knife in a dark alley is more his style. Forget Tiagoras and Erkin; one is dead, the other gone. Here in Loutharnium we look for a two century old legend, not a goblin sprite."
Lines of inquiry that Cassia suggests -
The priesthood of Hextor, those that follow the four armed avatar.
Seeking out a tomb or monument to Manricus.
Consulting census records to determine if there are descendents of Manricus still living. .
Finding a local poisoner and seeing if they know anything. Or try to find out if anyone in Loutharnium has fallen victim to a similar fate.
Seeking out a local sage/historian and asking them.
The possible advantages of beheading the Vulpus Nigrus would be that they may be able to apply pressure on our behalf on individuals who don't want to talk, (either coercive or bribery), they're more likely to know if the poison has any recent history and, in more mundane terms, may provide a secure base of operations. The disadvantages are that tackling them may cause serious trouble for us which would at best delay other activities, we might all get killt, and we'd kind of have to do it straight away, like tomorrow morning at first light.
"Three days is no time at all to search a city of this size for something that may not even exist, Coruskian." She speaks kindly and patiently, as one might explain a great unfairness to a young child.
This seems reasonable, the pbe-m 'protects' us from the table top trope of making suggestions out-of-character which your character for one reason or another wouldn't be able to make because you (well, ok, I'll own this one, I) just can't resist. With the understanding that stuff needn't be presented as conversation but a precis of the characters views over what may be a long running back and forth it shouldn't be problematic. Since we've had three days of walking we've had plenty of time to discuss, argue, agree, change our minds twice and return to the original plan before we arrive at Loutharnium This is also time which might allow some exchange of personal information - and Cassia has a few questions which will be in my next in-character post.
On a related matter, V wasn't sure whether Valka had been included in the debate between Cassia and Titus, my assumption is that anything placed on the forum is 'public' and can be acted on by others.
Re. Valeda.
Cassia agrees that ensuring her (and the baby's) care is wise - Is it possible to support her to keep her seat on the mule as we enter town? Cassia intends to buy a handmaid who could look after her but that's unlikely to be possible in the first few minutes of arriving in Loutharnium. Valeda would need to stay at least in the east village, any further away would be too far - depending on how tiresome crossing the river is, even the east bank may be too far. . Renting an insula and buying staff solves these problems, but by the time we'd done that Valeda would probably be dead. Probably best would be to go to the best/most reputable inn in the east village and pay the owner for care for Valeda as if she were his family. (Give him one of the gems and promise him the other? This would in addition probably gain access to a reasonably well connected local who might loan us the use of slaves for message carrying, directions etc.)
Re. Vulpus Nigrus.
Unfortunately, Cassia doesn't know what arrangements there were for reporting back with the reward. The unlamented Drusus (the not-slave that was killed by Severina's bodyguard ) was in charge of that. The implication is that Viusenius didn't trust Cassia, and also didn't think she was capable. Cassia thinks it's more likely that the Vulpus Negrus wanted Nikanor to owe them a favour than that they were interested in the cash, but given we claimed the cash she'd expect that if Viusenius found out about it he'd expect the lion's share to come to him. She's not sure what he'll make of the unlamented Drusus' unlamented death.
Cassia is very uneasy about the idea of negotiating with the Vulpus Negrus in any way other than at the point of a sword. Among other things, she'd anticipate that the minimum 'deal' that Viusenius would accept would include her 'return' to him. "And I would rather open my veins now." The other problem she sees with negotiating is that it puts Viusenius on alert. Her 'beheading' plan is basically to force our way in at dawn, kill Viusenius and use shock and 'possession of the ground' to make the rest of the Vulpus Nigrus do what they're told, taking over before they can think to disagree with the change in management. Cassia does acknowledge this could go horribly wrong with possible problems with the law, an immediate 'rebellion' or failure of nerve and will acquiesce without rancour to alternative plans.
Re. Investigating in Loutharnium
I need a new stola before I realistically can present myself in 'society'. Although it shouldn't be too hard to get one. Ideally I'd get one specially made that I could run in, though this would be a custom job and can't be 'now'. Whether before or after tackling the Vulpus Nigrus, I'd anticipate another 'split' with Titus and Cassia going one way and the barbarians the other. Would not a priest of Kord be more likely to get answers from a priest of Hextor than a non-priest? Cassia may be able to present herself as seeking genealogical information as a reason to be trying to gain access to the Census - an inheritance at stake? And of course, we definitely need an opportunity to go shopping! Although I suppose Valeda's life is more important.
Questions from Cassia to other PCs
What is Bjarturius' full name? She doesn't want to keep calling him 'Coruskian', but she won't use a familiar name. (Titus and Valka always get 'Titus Albanus' and 'Valka Spartaca', Gravus is sometimes 'Gravus' but usually 'dwarf' or 'salve').
What is Titus Albanus doing detatched from his legion in the company of barbarians? (Cassia acknowledges that her father wasn't actually with the 5th, although he had been a military tribune).
What's the story with the fight at Valka Spartaca's village (and Valka's growing collection of holy symbols)?
- 7th Day of the Ides of Cobius (late in the day)
The town of Loutharnium lies a few days north of Eburacum, a major stopover for river traffic headed along the Flamia. Contained within a low palisade wall, the smaller eastern village shelters the ferries that cross the great River; on the west bank, fortified “Old Loutharnium” greats you with its old poorly maintained stone walls.
A mixed militia of 2 humans, a half-orc and full fledged orc warrior guard the eastern entrance gate, demanding a rather high gate toll to enter the town in the name of their ruler, Prince Strychanius’s eldest son Rivandrius Naelax. The rude glare at the women by the soldiery doesn’t escape an always cautious Titus as he inquires about the outrageously high ferrying costs across the Flamia and an inn to spend the night.
There are no inns on the east bank. When asked why the guard explains: "Rivandrius wants you to spend your sesterci in a place where he can tax it! Offering lodging or goods here is strictly forbidden. Only exception is for food and wine."
He points to a pair of dingy tavernas located close to the ferries.
As the days go, Titus spends his time trying to know the others.
He excercises with Bjarturius in the morning though he is not as strong, he does his best. He makes jokes and tells punning jingles and rhymes to Veleda to keep her spirits up. He engages Valka in stories. On one evening he broke into song, and sang her something he had inexpertly made up about thier exploits. Gravus he treats with a mixture of curiousity and pity and finds the man inscrutable. Most of his time seems to be spent on Cassia though. He goes from debating the exact meaning of words, to buffoonery, to mocking her patrician attitude, to sharing stories of the legions, to discussing the finer points of the law, to playing little practical jokes. His flirting is approaching shameless. All the while he refuses to address her properly, except in a teasing tone.
In the meantime he is always quick to pitch in with the work, and is noticed to take less than his share of the food, and more of his share of the watches in order to ease the burdens of travel on the others.
He continues to debate with the others about the eye, and is fairly firmly of the mind that it should be destroyed, but if not, then certainly not sold.
When asked about his detachment for the 5th, he expalins with a grin that if the last fight had shown nothing it had shown what his commanding officers already knew, that he was no fighting man, and that he had a gift for languages, and was currently between assignments. Sometimes the 5th, or another legion needs a prisoner interegated and he can provide that service.
The most pressing concern is of course Veleda. Titus is very clear that he does not think any opinion matters but Bjarturius'. We only risk our lives here. He risks the life of someone he loves and thus he has more to loose. If asked for his opinion, he does not believe that the Vulpis Nigra will be able to provide much information about the poison.
Titus likes the idea of giving the innkeeper a gem and a charge to protect Veleda. He also wants to enter the city as soon as possible and see what can be done.
To Cassia: Anything you can do to disguise who you are would likely be of benefit. Even if it means playing a role in a station lower than you claim. Your blood is prettier in your veins I assure you, and he winks at her, and besides, if you bled out who shall I tease to make the hours pass?
Also please note that Titus has removed all insignia and his cloak and stowed them in his backpack before entering town.
Valka never figured a legionnaire would be so friendly and helpful. She is very surprised and listens to Titus's stories quietly but attentively! She likes stories: her eyes sparkle with interest if the story is good and original, her body language shows she enjoys it! The buffoonery part kinda throws her off too: she isn't sure what to make of THAT! The flirting part to Cassia its harder to say how she sees that. She looks at it quietly from a distance, observing every detail.
Besides Bjarturius's morning workout, Valka also repeats the training Valerius (her gladiator teacher) teach her every day.
She makes sure she washes herself every day too. She isn't very shy about it but isn't shameless too.
Besides that she listens when Bjarturius preaches his thing but its doubtful she is a strong believer in his God. You actually don't see her praying to any openly. But she does like Bjarturius and his sister. Valka tries to talk regularly to Veleda, telling her to be hopeful and that she will do her best to save her. She also talks about good memories when we were living a simple life in Segesta.
With Gravus, Valka acts like a Domina as best she can. She makes him do things slaves should do, like taking care of the mule, carrying stuff, etc. but maybe Gravus will spot if he notice details that Valka doesn't go out of her way to give him extra things to do, specially if he works on his potions or whatever it is he does (she is still unclear about that!)
Finally Cassia is the one she is the most careful around. Valka is never sure how to act around her. She does help her train and that probably makes dealing with her a bit easier (something valka is good at!). When she ask about Segesta (our village), Valka says: "Maybe one day I will tell you Cassia Aquila. But that day isn't today. Maybe you heard what I told Ballio. I didn't lie."
Valka asks, AGAIN, about the mule and if Titus and Bjarturius would share in the price. The mule would be a common investment and be used by all.
When we are in Loutharnium and its clear we can't stay on the east village, Valka turns to Bjarturius and says:
"We have to decide what we will do in Loutharnium now. I kinda agree with Titus: in the end I will side with whatever you say cuz Veleda's life is on the line. Me I'm not sure what to do."
Titus readily agrees to contribute towards the cost of a mule. When she is healed, it can be a gift to her, to remember this adventure we had together.
- 7th Day of the Ides of Cobius (late in the day)
A quick ferry ride brings the party to the river port. Just beyond the port is where most of old historic Loutharnium’s sights and places of importance reside. Statues of famous philosophers and senators of the old republic, a pair of arches dedicated to long gone Emperors of the Naelax line, temples (none to Hextor), a public bath, inns, tavernae and bordellos: everything that makes the Empire great can be found here. Including the quintessential town forum where most of the trading is done. The late public flogging of a freed slave welcomes the party as they enter the great forum, supervised by more of the town’s militia. Once more, brutal Orc and Half-Orc soldiers compose a sizable part of the town’s soldiery: a trend?
It is now well past komplet (night fall). The Heroes are tired. If Inns are what they look for, they quickly locate potential inns to choose from in Old Loutharnium. Two options: a bustling but somewhat cheaper establishment frequented by Plebs and Peregrini called “Turia’s Hearth”, or a much fancier, but substantially costlier inn called “The Silver Mantle”, catering to a richer clientele (patricians or wealthy plebs). The Mantle only has 2 rooms left available, and for one of them the Innkeeper expects to charge 150% because he explains, with pride, that once Prince Strychanius himself slept in that bed while passing through town. Any other fast lodging options would require leaving the old district.
"She can call it Erkin, so she doesn't forget who nearly killed her," says Cassia, dryly.
Cassia's response to Titus' flirting is to endure it, largely without comment but sometimes he probably notices her tuning him out and dissociating from conversation completely. She does warm (a little) when it comes to history, and can quote lengthy passages of verse and prose. She will ask Bjarturius and Valka of Coruskian history from the Coruskian point of view (and Bjarturius for accounts of Kord's life which may not be told in Aerdia).
It seems that the disadvantages of tackling the Black Fox are thought to outweigh the advantages. Shall we then pay the ludicrous toll to cross the river, throwing in a couple sestercii for drinks so as to get a reliable recommendation for an inn where Valeda can be kept safe, and employ the landlord of said inn as discussed?
"Dressed like this, Titus Albanus, I am unlikely to be recognised, especially outside the Laxium. Do not be concerned that I cannot act the part, though to gain access to the Census it may be that Valeriana Pia should accompany us." In a rare moment of levity she continues. "If only the real Valeriana knew what she was getting up to, she would die of shame on the spot."
Gravus has had little chance to make use of the esoteric equipment he carries with him during the journey; the first night he made use of a mortar and pestle with the herbs during the first night, and set the mixture to distill briefly in order to allow it to be more easily applied to wounds. Beyond that, and a more inscrutable concoction the following morning which he very carefully separated into tightly sealed vials, the dwarf has busied himself with the more mundane necessities of travel.
Gravus agrees that the hearth is more likely to be amenable to caring for Valeda, but the busyness of the establishment might lead to a certain level of neglect.
The dwarf offers no new suggestions as to possibilities towards finding information, but seems confident that the investigations will not prove fruitless. "Gold isn't found", he comments assuredly, "simply by licking the rock. Dumathoin only grants his knowledge when ye've earned it."
"Perhaps we don't need to find a poisoner, as such," he adds after a while considering Cassia Aquila's suggestion, "it may be that a local apothecary knows something of the poison, or how to treat it."
Bjarturius will share a room with Titus and Gravus, if they desire. On the other hand, if the whole group can take a big room and keep the same arrangements as in the wilderness, that would provide the ability to have someone on guard at all times... He makes the proposal... He does not intend to go outside that night.
On a few questions asked before:
Name -
"I am Bjarturius Rasmus Torsteno, son of Adalius Torsteno, from te bloot of Thorsten...
My fater and grant-fater hafe strong sonks of honor in te name of te Lort of Might!
One day, maybe, I hafe too!"
Mule -
Yes, Bjarturius will participate monetarily
Criars -
Yes, Bjarturius will participate monetarily, depending on price, since his priority is keeping the most denarii for a possible cure
Valka prefers the peregrinus/pleb Inn too.
When Bjarturius talks about "sharing a room with Titus and Gravus", Valka reminds Bjarturius (in a nice way but she is very clear about it) that Gravus is HER slave and Bjarturius doesn't get to decide what she does with her things please! :)
Gravus will stay with Valka unless I tell him something else.
Valka propose the guys share one room and us ladies with Gravus the other (the bigger one if there is a difference in size). Gravus will take care of Veleda and the baby (what's his name again?). Valka will help out a little too.
When we sleep in Inns or anywhere unless its not possible, this is what Valka does: make it so that the shutters are blocked (note to Gravus: buy something to help with that so we can do it easy in the future!). Gravus sleeps on the floor on a cot right in front of the door so if anyone intrude they bump into him. If there are ways to lock the door we do that too.
Beside that Valka wont be staying up to guard at night unless its a really extra special dangerous situation (there is a limit to be paranoid!).
Valka also doesn't want to go out that night: she'll prefer to get up early.
Agreed, unless Bjarturius Rasmus would rather keep his sister with him. (Which would have the added advantage of us not being disturbed when the baby wakes in the night). (At some point, Cassia will have asked what happened to the child's father).
I too don't think there's anything we are likely to be able to achieve at night in an unknown town, although of course Titus Albanus may wish to go find some trouble for himself. Some small things we may be able to do within Turia's Hearth.
Negotiate with the inn-keeper for care for Valeda and the child .
Find out if/where there is a temple to Hextor.
Find out if there are any local bylaws we really need to know about.
Find out where there's an apothecary/doctor - possibly even arrange for such to be called to Turia's Hearth early in the morning?
See if we can hire or buy a guide from the landlord to speed up moving around town? Loutharnium isn't gigantic, even by 'ancient' standards, but we don't have a lot of time so quick access to local knowledge will help.
"Would it be sensible for us each to contribute say 100 d to a fund for bribes and expenses? Each for our own reasons we have chosen this search for a cure as a shared endeavour."
After suggesting this a quizzical look crosses Cassia's face.
"Titus Albanus, what is your reason for having thrown in your lot with the Coruskians? They are not auxilia of the fifth, and you have known them no longer than I."
- 1st Day of the 2nd Low Nones Cobius (sometime past Prima - sunrise)
It was an uneventful night at “Turia’s Hearth” and much needed rest was enjoyed by all.
Negotiations were undertaken last night to secure additional care for Veleda and one year old baby Veronius. It comes in the form of an older Peregrina of Almorian descent named Sabia who shows adequate skills at administering care for both Veleda and the child.
Cassia also sends for the local apothecary, a man named Volumnius Plautius, to visit at first light.
Volumnius Plautius, a chubby snobbish man in his thirties, arrives with his young apprentice who his carrying his Dominus's work gear: a shoulder slung large wooden box brimming with instruments, herbs and potions.
Inquiries reveal there are no temples of Hextor in Loutharnium. The temples of the city are to Dammarus, Nerull and Erythnul. There are also shrines to Ehlonna and Pelor.
When Cassia inquires about baby Veronius, Veleda is happy to explain:
"Veronius is the son of the half-elven diplomat Taquelius Sylvinius Rilindarius and his wife Laelia. Taquelius and Laelia lived in Segesta with us. When Segesta was attacked Laelia was ra..."
Veleda pauses, sudden shame overtaking her. The very sick girl shifts in her bed for a better position and continues:
"Laelia was killed by the Praetorians before Taquelius and Bjarturius could save her. I guess Taquelius couldn't deal with it. So he asked my brother if me and him could take care of Veronius until he returns for him one day. Bjarturius said yes and gave him his holy symbol, the big iron one grandpa had given him: he told Taquelius to carry the symbol of Kord and that as long as he did Kord would watch over him."
On local laws, the inn-keeper informs Cassia Aquila:
"The militia is rather brutish: it is best not to provoke their ire! Rivandrius, unlike his father, enjoys a more vigorous approach to managing a city. I would also avoid anywhere outside the walls, especially the Fremitum. Not a place for decent Aerdians to be."
When asked by Cassia Aquila about his reason for being with the group, he grins at her. It seemed the better path he says., then shrugging he says lightly, Do you prefer I was not here?
To Bjarturius: What would you have me do? I can inquire about Manricus, or find a sage who might have ideas on these sorts of things, or am willing to stay here as a sentinel. Tell me where you need me and I will make it happen.
Admitting the apothecary to Veleda's side, Titus watches to see any sign of hope on his face or improvement on hers.
When Cassia talks about the fund for Veleda, Valka says:
"I'll take it like a good sign you are willing to spend money to save Veleda. 100 denari each is a big sum but if that's what it takes to save Veleda that's what it takes."
Speaking of spending money on Veleda reminds Valka of something Titus said:
"Giving Veleda Erkin the mule is a nice gesture too Titus, but she'll probably prefer a nice dress or fine sandals or jewelry when she gets better!"
Unless something happens right now with the apothecary, first thing Valka will do in the morning is go to the market and buy 2 daggers that are small enough to hide easily on her. She will take Gravus with her so she isn't a woman alone. Before she goes she will ask if anyone has anything to buy: might as well not make many trips for nothing!
Cassia didn't describe in detail the conversation with Nikanor or Ferto, explaining briefly that Ferto was suitably grateful and helpful, and that Nikanor was convinced by the deception and did not balk at paying the reward. Were anyone to ask more detailed questions she would give more detailed answers, although if Bjarturius mentions the glamer she is vague about it and if questioned directly says something like 'people often see what they expect to see, not what is really there'. I imagine it's reasonably obvious that Cassia is quite strong on social skills though.
"The Cassii do not balk at the cost of following through on their given word, Valka Spartaca. Though if a cure can simply be bought I would be surprised, and I would anticipate that we could not afford it."
I would suggest that 'out-and-back' trips probably use up too much time 'faffing around'. I would suggest that after Gravus has spoken to the apothecary and confirmed that ordinary medicine has no chance of saving Valeda we leave her in the care of Sabia and begin our search (however hopeless).
If I purchase a suitable stola then accompanied by Titus Albanus (there's a hint of resignation in her voice) I could inquire at the Census office to see if I can gain access, and how much of a bribe might be required.
At the same time Bjarturius Rasmus and Valka Spartaca could enquire at the various temples. The priests of Nerull may know where Manricus' tomb is, or what became of him. It was a priest of Erythnul who inflicted this and there is a faint possibility that the secret of the poison is held by them. Any of the temples might know why there isn't at least a shrine to Hextor here, it seems surprising that given the history this is the case and if there is a 'reason' then it might give a clue. Asking about monuments or public works attributed to Manricus may also bear fruit. He must have left *some* legacy of his life and governorship.
We can meet at Sexta in the forum to determine what, if anything, we have discovered and refresh ourselves.
While Cassia is not dictatorial, it is clear that centuries of good breeding have instilled in her a tendency to take charge and get things done.
The apothecary Volumnius Plautius:
A competent man but at a lost to aid Veleda in any meaningful way. He fears the worst and has no knowledge of the poison nor its history. He isn't even aware of the legend of Manricus nor the use of the poison to assassinate rivals. He can administer some remedies to help Veleda endure the pain and suffering. He can also provide daily 'check-ups' if asked.
The Great Forum of Loutharnium
Entering the forum, a crier is heard making morning announcements. The man is suitably well dressed, unusually tall and has the appropriate booming voice for his office:
"Our distinguished Aedile Vibius Vibidius Lucanus has enacted after lawful sentencing his imperial seal of eviction on the domi of Decius Fulcinius the roofer and Aumus Orosio the gardener for failure to pay proper taxes."
He takes a deep breath, waits a few seconds, and:
"The fishmonger's guild is again proud to hold festivities to Sacera Flamia on her low nones of Cobius at the Cornelian Amphitheater and shrine to her mother Ehlonna. All good citizens are invited. As usual slaves, actors and prostitutes cannot attend."
Cassia finds a vast selection of stolas to chose from at the forum.
Valka finds the pair of pugios (daggers) she wishes to acquire.
After making herself more presentable, Cassia and Titus head to the nearby Censor's office (all major government buildings and temples are in close proximity here in old Loutharnium).
Inside, Cassia Aquila quite adroitly speaks to local officials. The local Censor, a plump older patrician named Oppius Manlius Tatian, is adequately insulted and indignant when asked to have access to census archives. A rather heavy bribe (100 denari) is needed to assuage his most proper indignation and gain access to the information needed (the entire encounter takes the duo well into the late morning hours).
Tertius Sepurcius Tiberillus Hicesio was renamed 'Manricus' in the Hextorian tradition of using a new cognomen when a clergyman is elevated to High Priest General status. Cassia, from his real name, deduces he is a citizen of noble or wealthy foreign decent (most likely Almorian or Ahlissian). His entire family vanished without a trace at the time of time of his assassination by Emperor Calatorian.
The Temples of Dammarus, Nerull and Erythnul:
Valka, Bjarturius and Gravus make the rounds of the local temples. The biggest and wealthiest is by far the Temple of Dammarus.
But it's at the temple of Nerull they find some information of worth (after proper donations to the God of Death of course).
A local priest called Livius Glauco informs them that the Temple to Hextor was not built in the city but in the nearby Hills. Those hills are in goblinoid bandit territory now. Manricus is said to have been buried there. No-one goes there now. Apparently the church of Hextor had decided Manricus was tainted by Goblin influence and had lost the Aerdian way.
The Temple of Erythnul yields no fruitful results. The local High Priest is a foul runt of a man named Herius Vagnius Celer. He is not easy to approach and the Heroes make no headway in gaining anything more than the briefest of meeting.
At the temple of Erythnul, Valka tells that high priest Herius Vagnius Celer about the crystal ball we have. She also tells him about Diagoras and ask who he was, see if that makes him change his attitude. She ask how much it would be worth to the temple to have this item return to them, and that maybe if he helps us A LOT with our quest for the cure, we can make sure we give him a specially GREAT price!
Vagnius Celer's attitude changes at Valka's words:
"Erythnul and his furies be praised! You have recovered the Eye of Erythius! Have you called upon its powers? Have you been blessed by its unholy curse?"
About Diagoras:
"I haven't heard that name in ages. An ambitious fool, I was told, with little ability, rejected by the temple for resorting to improper auguries and witchcraft."
When Valka mentions a potential bargain:
"Return the Eye to its rightful place in this temple and Erythnul shall grant you his favors through his High Priest. I know not of this poison you speak of, nor have a cure for it. But most Humanoids in Loutharnium pray to savage Erythnul of the Beasts. I shall take you to the Fremitum to one who may aid you seek this Manricus and his temple-tomb. I shall speak on your behalf there so you are not ripped to pieces, or worse."
Celer leers at Valka when he says this, his lips curling in a twisted guarded smile. Gravus, noticing this from a short distance, guesses at some secret there.
"I shall also reward you with gifts from my armory: weapons and armor of fine craftsmanship as you will find nowhere else in this city."
Celer shows the armory, a few masterwork items, useful to the Heroes, are offered in the deal:
- A Masterwork Breastplate
- A Masterwork Chain Shirt
- A Masterwork spiked heavy scutum
- A Masterwork Scimitar
- A Masterwork Battleaxe
Less obvious choice but could be used by Titus:
- A Masterwork Great Rhomphaia (2 handed vicious balded weapon, damage like a great axe)
Celer would allow for 4 such items plus his aid in the Fremitum in exchange of the Eye of Erythius.
Valka is ok with that deal, and would really want the Masterwork spiked heavy scutum. She can also use the Masterwork Chain Shirt but knows there are others so wont get greedy!