Convergence (Chap IV) — Legacy Forums

Re: Convergence (Chap IV)

#201

Damn, that was a good shot he thought, looking over his shoulder at Voro. Aerex was behind him, warning him of the impending trouble. Unfortunately one of the eggs he was transporting was apparently broken, and the city guard was closing on the downed thief.
He looked up at Aerex, and pointing with his chin he motioned towards his satchel "Grab that for me and run it to the inn, I'll be there shortly."
I better make this quick!

He pushed his way quickly through the crowd and knelt close to the not badly wounded man.
"Shouldn't 'ave done that, friend...look at you now" he whispered into his ear as he pressed close.
Making it obvious to the crowd he was checking to see if the man was alive, he deftly pressed his fingers under and along the thief's belt while pressing his ear close to the man's face and waving frantically with the other hand.
"He's still alive" he bellowed, waving a few of the men in the crowd closer. He lifted the wounded man slowly, slipping his pouch into his armor.
"He needs help NOW if he is to live" he said while leaning the bald man on a few of the other men in the crowd.
He slid between a few people as the "goodly folks" took the weight from him.

He slipped behind the closest stall momentarily before rounding the market to reclaim his pack and cloak.
And off to the inn I go...

((OOC: pick pockets successful, as per chat. ))

A short time later...

He moved deliberately through the streets, weaving between passersby. His cloak closed tight, hood up, he kept his head low and grumbled to himself.
"Now how do I explain all of this?" He kicked a stone and watched it skitter across the ground. "This is a fine mess I've gotten myself into!" He trudged along, retracing his steps from earlier that morning.
"Now I have to tell them! And what am I going to do with that damn egg now, eat it?" He continued on, going over the scene again in his mind.
"That bald bastard had one hell of a tattoo...I've never seen one so big before, or so many colors!" He halted, mid stride. "Could that be why he wanted the eggs? The dragon tattoo on his back?" He stood in the middle of the road, contemplating the thought.

Confused, a bit tense, and definitely in need of a strong drink he continued towards the inn. "I just hope Aerex grabbed my bag before he buggered off..."

Re: Convergence (Chap IV)

#202

Talia was distracted. The man she'd spoken to said that there weren't any gypsies serving on this ship, so that idea was no good. Still, the name of the ship had to mean something. "The Harbormaster..." she muttered to herself. Well, one might assume that a ship owner would know his crew, at least in passing. Maybe she was meant to go ask him. It was possible that her father served on a different ship, or that he had once served on the one here. The Harbormaster would probably be able to tell her one way or another. The name of that ship meant something, that was certain. She needed to find a way to talk to this man. Aerex could probably help her figure out how.

She tensed as she heard the commotion behind her. "Oh, gods..." Vorodon was hard to miss, and she could tell he'd been involved in whatever had happened. She groaned, then started back towards the others. Time to find Aerex and grab Vorodon before things got even more out of hand. Why, she wondered, was it more or less impossible for anyone she associated with to stay out of trouble?

Re: Convergence (Chap IV)

#203

"That is the Halnoli I know and love - always direct and to the point!"
To laugh he had.
"And most often also right - my intentions are an open book for you."

First reaching out for a handshake, the knight hugged his old friend instead.
"Let go, fruit!" was the mage's answer, much expected, much cherished.

Looking for a place to sit, he set aside a stack of underware, and sat on a barrel with questionable contents.
"As for the two serious gentlemen behind me, they're Adan and Tristan, we met in the hills while moping the floor with some evildoers. Which brings me to the fact that said felons were noble enough to carry enchanted loot, yet not sufficiently high-minded to write instructions on their equipment for the likely case that somebody killed them. With none of our band of sufficient intellect to fathom their use, I had to think of you."

Halnoli waited, a questioning look in his face.

Playing the dunce for a second, Kyrian looked back at him in a similiar fashion, only to add: "As long as the favor you need dos not include filing off my right arm with a sharpened spoon, I will be more than happy to oblige. Tell me what you need."

Looking around, and seeing a half-eaten tuna meat pie, Kyrian pilfered one slice, and added: "Two more thoughts bother my mind - first is my task, looking for a lass young of sharp tongue, wizardly power and owl-occupied shoulder, red of hair and noble of descent. The second is imperative as well - does Kallna's down the street still hold the 'all you can eat' pasta buffet?"

Re: Convergence (Chap IV)

#204

Though Adan stood stolid and stodgy, the very model of military discipline, throughout the other's conversation, he did incline his head once, as he was introduced to the magi, his eyes slipping this way and that to survey the room, before taking up the a 'guarding' position not very far from the door. Silent, perhaps, but obviously alive, and aware of his surroundings, rather than deep in his own pensive thoughts as he had been lately. Those decisions, after all, were made, and it was no longer time to brood upon them.

And, indeed, his eyebrow did rise once as the 'Dew Marked Rose' mentioned seeking a noblewoman, but that too, he let pass without immediate comment. I wish I wondered why he's hungry.

Re: Convergence (Chap IV)

#205

Usstro's Offers

Halnoli eyed the trio, then just Kyrian and said,

“Easy enough on the first. Leave the morsels here, come back in a day. I have scrolls with such spells as are needed, aplenty. Of course you would have to pay–whoa–-a polearm? You could not bring me a wand? Ah, yes, two rings, much better. And a knife. How bland, despite the nice detail on the mermaid handle. Alright, this should not take long. Just long enough for you to accomplish what I need” Halnoli smiled at Kyrian, and winked at Adan, hoping to illicit a smile. None came, so Halnoli continued.

“As to your bothersome task, do you have anything that belongs or belonged to this fine, red-haired (he twirled his own red beard) , buxom, for no doubt she is buxom, (another wink, this time at Tristan) lass? If so, I can send it to Pjoula of the Pox. If not, we can use my latest acquisiton! A scrying ball of crystal, tourmeline I believe, though that would take more effort, and involve some risk.”

“As to Kallna’s pasta, there was no finer in the lands, though I’m afraid the place is run by her more rigid and less talented daughter now. Kallna retired.”

“Now then, if you ask me if I can acquire invitations to the Split-Lipped Queen’s Ball I would say yes too. Now that is a fine place to take whichever lady finds herself haunted by your musky scent this time.”

Halnoli crossed his arms beneath his red beard, leaned back in his plushy armchair, and smiled, looking from visitor to visitor in turn.

“So, what can you do for Ol’ Halnoli you’re all asking yourselves now? Well, I need you to broker a peace”, Usstro turned suddenly serious. A peace between those d**ned Hellschwerts and those irascible Von Hellens. Never have two cousin lineages warred so incessantly among themselves. Some have taken notice, some in the Dew-Marked Rose” he eyed Kyrian suggestively, “–and to make a long story shorter, I was asked to look into it. And so I did. I traveled the five days, and broke bread with each in turn. I could do naught. In very fact, the two families are plotting sieges on each other’s castles as I speak, no doubt. What I want you to do, as a favor to me, is to try your hand at diplomacy on my behalf. On the behalf of your precious Dew-Marked Rose, if you will. See if you can do anything about this standoff. You knew that Von Hellen Duke well, that we all knew and loved. Well, he’s dead Kyrian. But you knew some others of his clan, did you not? Perhaps you can talk a cow out of moo-ing. And having two priests along, well, that wont make matter’s any worse. Before I let you-know-who in on the fact that I could do nothing, in regards to the “mission” she assigned me, I thought perhaps a Rose such as yourself could do whatever needs to be done, in my stead.”

“Naturally, I would then proceed to take the credit for your success, if you have it, and she will be pleased with Ol’ Hanoli. And you will have your magical items freely identified. Otherwise, you can take them to a hedge-hog (a euphemism for hedge-wizard) and he will charge you gold coins in the thousands.” The smile returned.

"In very fact, I would even go so far as to offer you the use of my scrying magicks to find your owl-loving gal, and identify the items you present me, in advance of your trip to the east and north. The word of a Rose is all i require to know you will follow through, if you agree to go."

Re: Convergence (Chap IV)

#206

As the wizard began to talk, Adan remained motionless through his banter, though his trained mind picked upon the high points and stored them away for later. And in truth, he'd planned to stand like a stone statue, still and silent. Until, at least, the nature of the task the wizard wanted began to fall from his lips. It was then that the blood began to drain from the Triguian soldier's face, his right hand drifting upwards to grasp the sigil that hung from his neck, the glittering blade signet clearly visible upon the ring that he had reclaimed for himself from the Verbeeg.

Mein Gott, was haben sie gemachen! .... Rhys, gib mir seine Kraft, ich werde es gebracht!

And as they rose, Adan's eyes were filled with a fire, a light that few had seen there in many a day. "Do as you wish, Ritter. But I tell you this. No more of meinen Brüder will be gemordet! Keine!" Disturbed enough to half-hiss this final word, to forget the tongue he was speaking in the middle of speaking it. A deep breath, a trembling hand slowly withdrawn from the tarnished symbol of Trigu, a man in control of himself once more.

"Tell me... Hanoli, if you know. How did the Duke meet his end?"

Re: Convergence (Chap IV)

#207

Halnoli did not notice the ring at first, preoccupied with his own thoughts and witty banter, but then half-turned to Adan, while releasing some wind form his arse.

"Aye, thats the problem, warrior-priest. He was supposedly killed by a Hellschwert. Used poison during a tourney on the Duke. The Duke. Of course that wretched clan denies it, but the tragic irony is, they killed the only Von Hellen worth a d**n! Or so claim the Von Hellen's anyway. It is a sordid affair. A full blown feud will do no one good."

Halnoli calmed again and turned to rummage through countless silken scarves in a pile beside his armchair, to at last reveal a ball of pale, green-blue crystal, or glass perhaps, for all its purity.

Suddenly, wide-eyed, Halnoli Usstro turned back to look at Adan, who had just spoke in a tongue Halnoli knew well. He then noticed the signet ring.

"Well, oh. Hmm. What are the odds of that happening", he said slowly in measured tones, while gaping at Adan. It was Halnoli's turn to be still and silent.

Re: Convergence (Chap IV)

#208

Vorodon, Talia, Aerex, Mirinar (mini-thingy)

As the three companions entered the inn some time later, they saw Mirinar sucking down a goblet of Lutinzance Red. The mysterious man half-turned and nodded. Though his expression was unreadable, he seemed even more tightly wound as usual. Talia wondered what he would say, given the first chance to speak after that peculiar event at the docks, and Vorodon grinned, convinced he would be thanked for his quick thinking and great aim

Re: Convergence (Chap IV)

#209

"Okay, don't tell me that one of them is a von Hellen, the other a Hellschwert, they just realized it, and they're standing right behind me?"

Re: Convergence (Chap IV)

#210

"My companion, so far as I know, is not one of the von Hellen scions. I, however, have known that I am descended from the Shining Swordswoman. It is not a new revelation." Adan's voice was low, and simple now, once more under total control. "Trickery and poison, that is Lyle's lot, but I see not why he would do this. Hungry though he may be, even he knows that destroying a fiefdom in order to inherit it is foolish. I fear..."

And that low voice trailed away, the man deep in some distant thought. "Trigu verdammen sie!"

Re: Convergence (Chap IV)

#211

Rubbing his chin, the knight mused.
"While nobles claim to be the sole force fit to rule the land, I doubt that they were of sufficient wisdom to call mages or priests instantly, to determine the validity of the accusation of poisoning? As far as I know, the first spell Academy students learn is one to discern poison in its many guises, fo the protection of themselves and their future employers."

He smiled at Halnoli: "An there I thought simplicity lied ahead. Blame me for being a fool, but I sure will look into it - to Duke Lokknar I owe my spurs, thus it would be fitting to avenge his murder, if it was one, and to save his kin from war."

To Adan he turned then, speaking: "Off with your mask, kight. I believe you will not stand aside either while your kin are being accused - we must find the truth, and bring it to the light, to enable justice to reign, and life to prevail. To that end, tell us of your kin, your position amongst them, and where we might start."

Shaking his head, he added: "Pity about that pasta. Duke Lokknar might have loved it."

Re: Convergence (Chap IV)

#212

She was still wondering exactly what the hell had gone on in the docks district, but she put it aside for now. Talia was still preoccupied with her own thoughts. As they entered the inn, she turned to Aerex. "How exactly does one seek an audience with the Harbormaster? I'd like to ask him something." She didn't much like the idea of making herself known to someone who was probably an important man of Jantir, and she didn't know if he'd even give her the time of day. But that ship in the harbor with her name, that was too obvious to not try. It would be stupid to ignore a sign that blatant. Hopefully it would be a simple matter; her questions wouldn't take up more than a few minutes. However, the previous encounters she had had with other "important men" made her think she should probably wait until she had recovered her fans from the smith who had agreed to sharpen them before going to see this Harbormaster.

Re: Convergence (Chap IV)

#213

Aerex shifted Mirinar's bag and thought. "Harbormaster? Well, I never worked much in Ssembra, but if he's anything like other Jantiri officials, he's probably hard to pin down. We might need to grease the right palms and know the right people to get in." He sighed. "Why are we lookin' for him? We sort of already have our hands full." He threw a glance at Mirinar. "That didn't seem like a random theft to me," Matare said measuredly, handing the bag to him. He realized he never actually looked to see what was within. "Whatever you've got, somebody wanted it bad. You're not gonna bring down trouble on us, are you? The last thing we need are bird-helms after us." Normally, he'd be more patient with relative strangers, particularly ones that had previously saved his life. The gravity of his father's mysterious debt and Thyran's cryptic warnings weighed heavily on the inspector, and he was in no mood to deal with added danger.

(OOC: Mr. GM, would Aerex know any major players in Dockside? Someone who might owe a favor or two?)

Re: Convergence (Chap IV)

#214

In fact he does, Dozus.

Pororn Wesovi. Retired thieves guildmaster. Lives somewhere in the docks, keeps low profile, but is known in certain circles, as the only guildmaster of thieves to ever retire and live out his life peacefully, without repercussions. He once, many moons ago, ruled the Esteemed Brotherhood of Cargomasters (thieves) wih an iron fist.

Skanis Teg. A Kepharan mechant, who owns a few ships in the harbor. Aerex once sucessfully looked into a crime spree involving the man's warehouses, while he was a young city gaurd.

Zelilah Thuran. Mother of your childhood sweetheart, Fairis. According to what Thyran said, incidentally enough, she recently maried the Harbormaster. Zelilah always had a godo relationship with you. Sometimes even, a better one than she had with her own daughter, Fairis. She had always hoped you two would "click".

Re: Convergence (Chap IV)

#215

He looked slowly over his shoulder again at Aerex, making sure eye contact was clearly established. “It was planned. The theft was calculated, but I would have thought that would be obvious” he said sharply, but with no malice in his voice. He was still a bit angry, even after the drinks. He lifted his cup again, drained it in a single gulp, and leaned his elbows on the bar. “And you are as much a target as I was, or at least your pack is” he chuckled, turning slowly to face the three companions.
He looked at his satchel, then at Voro and Talia.
He found himself distracted, almost stunned, as the light from the window caught in Talia’s hair. He smiled slightly. She was actually quite a lovely woman. A stray memory of Tander slid in from the shadows of his mind, superimposed over the face of the gypsy. Yes, quite lovely indeed…

He returned his gaze to Aerex. Now the hard part…
“I assume you have deducted that I am not the man I appear to be, and in that I owe you all an explanation. So, if you will indulge me for a few moments….” He took a deep breath, steadied himself, and began, slowly and in a low voice…

“My name is not Kasin Mirinar, it is Taran. Silverhand. The disguise was a necessary precaution, for your safety and mine.” He studied their faces for a moment before continuing. “I was delivering what is in that satchel. I believe you have something very similar in your pack, Aerex. It is, or rather was, two dragon eggs. The bald fishmonger was my contact here. He was to pay me well for them, I had no idea he was going to try to steal them. Thanks to Voro’s unerring accuracy with projectiles” he smiled looking at the ogrish fellow “this was avoided.”

He glanced at Talia again. Truly I must be a fool to think….
He moved his gaze to the floor at his feet. “I was following you just before we crossed paths. It seems you carry an item that struck me curious. I was going to mention it, but….” His voice trailed off as he reached for the refilled cup. “Well, you understand.”
He took a sip from the cup; hoping resolve might be found there somewhere. It wasn’t.

“The man who robbed me, I suspect, is in some sort of cult. He had a huge dragon tattooed across most of his upper body. I don’t know if this information is valuable to you, but it is yours now.” He set the cup down on the bar again.
“I can only offer my humblest apologies for my deception, and any skills I may have that can assist you…” He tried to manage a charming grin. “I’m not always neck deep in the mud dying…”

He leaned back against the bar, watching the three closely for some sort of reaction.

Re: Convergence (Chap IV)

#216

"Trigu works in mysterious ways, brother. This very well could be the circumstance that leads to your redemption." he smiled at his fellow Triguian, and placed a hand on his shoulder, giving support where it was obviously needed. "I am sorry to hear of the passing of the Duke. I'm sure he was a good man. What then need we do to stop this feud? I've not much experience in this field, and I doubt my brother here is going to be entirely...cold-blooded about the affair." This last was directed to both Kyrian and the mage-acquaintance of the former.

Re: Convergence (Chap IV)

#217

A sad, sorrowful shake of his head, as Adan once more reached to his medallion, scowling at the tarnish there. "The truth must out, brother, and all must see it. The guilty must be delivered to justice, and so much as it can be, the wrong set right. Blood may be shed, but the taste of vengeance must become as ash. Then, and only then, are they like to lay down their blades. That is the way of things, be it right, or wrong, in the North."

A short pause, as the fire flashed within his eyes for a moment, a thought coming to his mind. "Even if they were not my kin, elf, I have sworn a vow unto my Lord and God, even as you have sworn unto this Order you serve. To bring justice in the name of preventing a slaughter of innocents would be a part of that vow. I have already paid the price of vengeance, and do not care to do so again. Though my blood be hot, my veins hath been tempered by my Lord. And you shall know the truth of who I am, but I would ask that we gather up all of our companions, before I speak it. We will need the talents and experience of the inspector, I expect. Though it be selfish, the tale is long and wearying to tell, and I would not tell it more than I must. For now, it shall suffice to know that I am Adan von Hellschwert, the youngest son of Nial von Hellschwert, Duke of Landeel. We begin with my twin, for it has been many months since I was banished from my father's lands, and she shall surely know more than I."

Re: Convergence (Chap IV)

#218

Talia stared at him, for the moment shocked enough she almost forgot what she had come here to do. "That's a... dragon... egg?" That was the first thing that occured to her to ask. She closed her eyes. "Voro, what did you do with that thing you got from Yandry? Please tell me you don't still have it." She'd never seen a dragon, but she'd heard the stories. The very last thing she wanted was an angry reptile coming to look for what belonged to it while she and her friends were in the same vicinity. She wasn't worried about Loiha's newfound caravan, they'd have moved on soon after the adventurers had left. She was getting a headache. "Tell me, why is it that there are people foolish enough to mess with gigantic fire-breathing predators?" Cults she could deal with, they were only men. But dragons were different. If legend was to be believed, they had some magic intrinsic to them, and she did not want to know if that legend was true. She rubbed her temples, frowning. "Everyone I associate with, none of them can keep out of trouble," she muttered.

Re: Convergence (Chap IV)

#219

T, V, A, M

A figure listened to the companion's conversation, unseen amidst the innocuous and random patrons of the inn. Her eyes went from Mirinar to Talia to Vorodon to Aerex. After some time the figure rose and exited the inn. There were plans to be made, she thought. Preparations.

She would wait, until the man was alone.

Re: Convergence (Chap IV)

#220

Aerex's disbelief quickly shifted to anger. "You rotten bastard." He stepped to the bar, placing his fist firmly down on it in front of Taran Silverhand. The egg in his back - which he had nearly forgotten - seemed to weight three times as heavy as it did before. "You used us. We're nothing but your mules. Do you know the kind of danger you've brought down on us? We're talking about dragon eggs. The owner of these things are gonna track them down eventually. You knew what they were and you let us bring them to Jantir. You put the whole city at risk!" Aerex's voice began to rise, his face reddened. "What the hell were you thinking?! You wanted to make a buck, let these idiot travelers carry the burden while you profit? Dynast's balls, you've got a rotten heart. I shoulda left you to die in the mud like the worm you are." Matare stepped back and tore the pack from his shoulders. "Now what the hell are we supposed to do with this? Can't just leave it here, can't break it-" The thought of why he couldn't let himself break the egg only briefly crossed his mind. "-ain't gonna sell it to some sleaze so he can use it to burn down a village. What do you suggest, Mr. Bright-idea?"

Re: Convergence (Chap IV)

#221

K, A, T

Halnoli bent over his crystal ball, and shoo'd Kyrian away with his hand, as the knight breathed on the mage's neck, trying to get a look over Halnoli's shoulder.

"Stop that. It tickles. I need to concentrate." Halnoli chided and continued peering into the light-refracting tourmaline.

He had been at it for a half hour now, and finally beads of perspiration emerged on the half-elf's forehead.

After another few minutes of silence, he looked up.

"Your quarry is due north. Three days. Unless I'm mistaken, which is possible, but--" Halnoli rubbed his temples, tired form the crystal ball gazing exertion.

"Hmm, strange--the girl you seek is three days north" he repeated unsure of himself. "And she is, hmmm"

"Thats as much as i can guage", he announced. "Something is, uh, off--Well, at the very least she is not out of your way. For surely ye can travel north, before turning east toward Hellschwert lands."

"Will there be anything else, Sir Knight?" a feint smile finally returned to Halnoli's face, as he glanced up at Kyrian again, but he seemed troubled by something he saw in his crystal ball.

Re: Convergence (Chap IV)

#222

“You are a rather self-centered dolt, aren’t you? You have been carrying an egg the whole time, since before I found you! That’s how I found you!”
Taran stood up straight. He was actually disturbed by Aerex’ reaction. He had done his best, even finding himself on the brink of death, for the benefit of this man yelling at him.

He glanced at Voro, hoping he would understand what he was about to say. He turned his gaze to Talia, an apologetic look in his eyes. There was something about her, something fragile behind the strength he saw. He hoped she would see the truth in his words…
Am I really the one at fault here?
He looked towards Aerex again, his eyes no longer apologetic but angry. “You carried the egg in your pack this far, not I! In case you hadn’t noticed, I’m a stranger here. But you, the local, did exactly what you scold me for! You carry the same cargo for what reason? If blame be cast, you are at fault as well. I’m sure I am not the only one who knows what’s in your pack….”
He steadied his voice, lowering it. This man just doesn’t get it…
“Anyone could have followed you. I simply came along for the ride and the company. I even risked my life, nearly DIED, to help you. I’m surprised at your gratitude.”
He paused a moment, choosing his words carefully. “This was a job for me. Being poverty stricken isn’t my idea of a happy existence. Until we met, I was completely alone here, no friends, no family. I still have only the slightest idea where I am. How am I supposed to know about the depraved lunatics from your hometown?”

Taran took a deep breath. He knew this looked bad for him. “I have no idea what to do with the remaining eggs, but you seem to know more about the denizens of this place than I do, so how about explaining who the guy with the huge dragon tattoo was. He’s obviously a local…”

Re: Convergence (Chap IV)

#223

V,A,M,T

Brother Hagopin proved to be a mistake. She found this out too late. But this man, she was sure now, was a man of honor. She could not afford to be wrong. Soon, she would approach him.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The inn was a’flutter with activity and talk that evening, as the companions continued their heated exchange.

–The Dynast of Jantir, Larnassa, the Split-Lipped Queen’s Grande Ball was to coincide with the last day of the four-day Symposium. A gathering for those not so ‘religiously’ inclined to celebrate the ‘secular’, a not so subtle jab on the Dynast’s behalf, to avert the attention of Jantir’s citizens, from the maddening (to her) religious convergence taking place. Invitations were hard to come by, and apparently greatly coveted.

-Jantir’s first ever Zoo, three years in planning and construction phase, was having its grande opening the very next day as well. Supposedly, countless beasts, known and unknown, creatures from the world’s four corners had been brought in over the last half-year and would finally all be put on display. Inn patrons buzzed with excitement. There was even talk, that a “dragon”, captured across the sea, would be presented for all to witness!

–Lately, along with the many religious scholars and zealots who gathered in Jantir for the four-day Symposium, a new breed of apocalypse prophets were present as well, infiltrating the zeitgeist of the populace. Prophecies and predictions of world-ending dooms were all the rage, and though certainly not a novel concept, it seemed that the current wave of the End-of-Days proclaimers, were taking on a particularly morbid and powerful tone, and capturing the people’s imaginations.

–There was talk of dragons also. Though most cosmopolitan Jantirians thought of dragons as semi-mythical beasts, only found far away across the seas in impenetrable jungles, ancient texts, and abysmal caves of the world, lately rumors of dragon cults and the great, serpentine beasts themselves were surfacing.

–There was news from across the Empire. Trouble in far-off, mysterious Nimz, city of scholars, artificers, and clock-towers. An insurgence or an insurrection, or even a bold and brazen assault, no was sure, had apparently taken place. Word said that whatever the conflict seem to entail in that strange, isolated place, it would somehow probably come to Jantir soon as well. The problem with these rumors was, that no one yet had enough information to gauge what exactly had happened. At least no one in this inn.

-Closer to home, there was gossip of some great feud taking place, north, in the forested, swamp-land of the elder nobility. The estates of the ancient clans were abuzz with talk of the Hellschwerts and the Von Hellens. Trouble was brewing between the two old families.

-And from across the sea there was talk of deserts, and cities of glass, and great electrical storms, and ancient prophecies.

–The 97th Annual Regatta of Screaming Eagles, in honor of the Never-Ending-Empire’s commemoration and celebration of its own past and original expansion, (not the Kepharans favorite event, but revered as near sacred by the Southfolk, particularly the blue-blooded) was to begin in a week. A great sailing race circumnavigating the gigantic Bay of Screaming Eagles, starting in Ssembra’s docks, with the eventual winner, pulling into the cove of the Harbormaster’s Isle after a making a great circle, three hundred and sixty miles later, to be feted and honored by the gathered nobles.

Jantir was a busy place.

Re: Convergence (Chap IV)

#224

Talia sighed, frustrated. "Réduis vos voix," she snapped, for a moment slipping back into Romani. Then, in a low voice, she continued. "What's done is done, and there's very little point in throwing accusations around. I could say that we didn't know what we carried, which we didn't, and I could say that I have a certain sympathy for Taran, which I do. Arguing is not going to get us anywhere, and is only going to attract more attention than we already do. If I thought it was even possible to do so without dying, I would suggest giving them back to the nest they were stolen from. Seeing as how that isn't likely, we've got to think of something."

Re: Convergence (Chap IV)

#225

'Well then, thank you Halnoli - we will see into the matter, and as soon as it is solved, dine and laugh, tell tales about it with sufficient zest and irreverence. But, if you are worried about anything besides having seen my charge bathing inside that voyeur ball, tell me now, for we are off to fetch our merry band, and use their adventurous spirit to cajole them into doing what is heroic and right."

The proximity of his charge-to be, the danger ahead and the opportunity for daring deeds already made his heart race.
'I bet there will be a siege' he thought 'and she will be locked in a tower... covered in wild roses....yes' he speculated further 'and a knight in black armor could fall by my sword'...
Indeed, there was adventure ahead. Challenge and glory.

I guess it is already later in the day. So, before we depart, methinks that a dinner with Shallaya could be a distinct possibility.

Re: Convergence (Chap IV)

#226

With a deep bow, Taran smiled. “The Lady is right, we can argue the finer points of lack of forethought later...” he raised his head slightly, looking directly at Talia.
“Wisdom and beauty are a rare combination” he whispered as he rose up, a mischievous grin playing across his lips.
“Unfortunately, I have no idea what to do with the eggs, short of a large morningfeast treat...it would be a pity to waste them” he almost laughed at his words.

Re: Convergence (Chap IV)

#227

It was an exercise in discipline for Adan to remain for the final pleasantries, through the answer to Kasin's final question, his mind a-churn. But there was naught he could do here but gather his own forces, meager as they would be. No. This must not be permitted to go to slaughter.

Making his exquisitely polite thanks to the magi, however, he turned, and having left the room, frowned to his companions. "I will return to our inn, and gather our companions for what I must tell them. Come if you will." And with that, he began his stride towards the inn, his face arisen and purposeful once more. Lord, I shall do as I must, and I thank you for the opportunity to save the blood of my kin from being spilled. Though I am unworthy to serve you, say the word, and I shall be healed.

Ah, and there. There was the correct door.

Re: Convergence (Chap IV)

#228

Talia just raised an eyebrow at Taran's comment about beauty and wisdom. Then she shook her head and muttered something that sounded like "Oh, gods, not another one." Turning to Aerex, she asked, "You know this city. Is there a way to get rid of this thing without bringing more trouble than we make for ourselves? Or someone we can trust to do something responsible with it?"

Re: Convergence (Chap IV)

#229

Aerex bit his tongue. Did she say she had a "certain sympathy" for the con man that knowingly allowed them to carry his potentially deadly prize? Why the misplaced empathetic feelings? It bothered him. "The zoo's supposed to be opening soon," he said sullenly. "Someone there might know what to do with it." Aerex made a point to take several paces away from Taran Silverhand as he waved down the barkeeper, who was mixing a beverage behind the bar. "Barkeep, what do you know about the new zoo? When's it open and where is it?"

Re: Convergence (Chap IV)

#230

Taran just smiled. I assume Aerex and I are not bound to be friends just yet...

He had overheard many interesting things about this city, mostly in passing among the locals in the inn and at the fish market. This city was definitely a busy place...

He turned to Talia and Voro. “And what say you? To cage a...” he lowered his voice to just above a whisper “dragon within the city itself seems no less foolish than selling it to me.” He chuckled, his normal jovial mood returning slowly.

“I suggest finding some of the “doomsayers” that have come to town. There’s bound to be some information gleaned from them...” He took a moment to reconsider, knowing full well what to say to riel Aerex again.
“Or perhaps a boat ride...I hear there is quite a sailing competition here soon. And I do so miss the sea...”

Re: Convergence (Chap IV)

#231

(OOC: Not the best timing or way, but since Muro is pushing me... :p)

Taking a deep breath at the verge of the inn, Adan pushed the door open, his face a study in determination as he crossed the common rooms towards Matare and his companions. For some moments, he gathered the sense of their conversation, before he lifted his head, placing the hand bearing his signet ring on the table before him.

"I fear, my companions, that I too have tasks that must be accomplished. We have traveled together, broken bread together, and broken skulls together. This should make us allies, but I have been.. less than forthcoming with information that you should know. That ends now, though I wish it could be in a better way.

You have heard, by now, the rumors, that the von Hellion and the von Hellschwert clans have taken up arms against each other. I cannot permit this to continue, for though I be banished for my crimes against Hellschwert, I remain the youngest son of that duke, and I have seen enough of my brother's blood shed. I must break my banishment, and bring a true justice to the murderer of Hellion, so that the truces might once more hold. This will require skills that I do not have, but you have shown.

Yet, the Hellions and my banishment are not my only concern, as I venture back to my ancestral lands. I have committed a great wrong in the eyes of Lord Trigu, and He has permitted that wrong to hunt me. By now, it stalks that country, searching for me, wearing a copy of my skin, a dark reflection of myself as I was before I fell from the Lord's favor. I must confront it, and in that confrontation, either it or I shall die. Though I would prefer it otherwise, this too, I will need aid in facing.

Once these things are done, my sword will be yours to use."

Re: Convergence (Chap IV)

#232

"The von Hellens it was, good sir" Kyrian corrected him absent-mindedly. "What do you have there, hidden away? Eggs I smell, and hunger!" he had to ask the others. Kyrian's stomach was very demanding, as many an "All You Can Eat" buffet had learned.

Laying his hand on Adan's shoulder he addressed him again: "Tomorrow we go. There is no sense in rushing, yet none in sloth as well. As soon as the sun kisses the horizon, the road will have us."

To the rest of their band he turned, smiling: "This morning we set out to find but pale tracks, and instead, discovered an opportunity for wrongs to be righted, heroism be done, redemption be sought and felons hung like fruits in the trees! What say you, band? Young Adan needs aid, and the Silver Lady help me, I just want to know how his face looks when smiling. Are you with us?"

Re: Convergence (Chap IV)

#233

Kyrian

After presenting the companions with an offer of daring-do and adventure, Kyrian did not await a reply, leaving grim Adan to explain the details and answer any questions, Talia, Vorodon, Aerex, and Mirinar may have had.

With a dramatic flare, the knight bowed and exited the inn.

Several hours later, while dining on plump, Jantirian oysters and drinking the heady gooseberry wine of the hill countries, Shallaya updated Kyrian on the last three years of her life, as well as on the general news of Jantir. Nothing fascinating nor overly memorable caught Kyrian’s ear, though he listened enraptured. Apparently Shallaya only two weeks ago, finally gave in to a marriage proposal from some ever-so-minor noble, one apparently who would overlook her unsavory profession and low birth, for her beauty and particular talents. Her wedding was to take place in two weeks time, though she hinted in no uncertain terms, that if some random elven, feline knight would ride in like a hurricane, “kidnap” her, tie her to his snow-white mount, and whisk her away to a life of hot-blooded adventure and debauchery, she would not complain strongly.

In the midst of Shallaya’s long-winded speech, Kyrian was for no rhyme or reason, reminded of the words of the desiccated fortune-teller back in the gypsy camp.

“Ye will find what ye seek, and what ye seek, shall in turn, seek to slay thee.” or something to such effect.

Later, as honey cakes, grapes, and fresh persimmons arrived for dessert, Shallaya spoke of rumors and tidings. Apparently, several knights of the Dew-Marked Rose had recently traveled to meet with the Dynast, Larnassa, at the self-styled Queen’s request, and in fact, it seemed lately that every knight, mercenary, hero, and adventurer-for-hire, was coming into Jantir, more so than usual, and gossip about town, spoke of the “need for heroes”, though the no could guess as to the reasons.

Still later, Old Lathon from the Once-Proud Goose stopped by the establishment, where Kyrian and Shallaya were dining, and exchanged pleasantries with the pair.

Lathon admitted to Kyrian that his own search for Kyrian’s mysterious maiden, amidst the streets of Jantir proved unsuccessful, and added that if the paladin was indeed traveling north, perhaps a small favor for Old Lathon was possible as well. Apparently, Lathon’s older brother, one Munsk the Cutler, owned a small stead several days north of the city, and had recently sent a letter to his brother in Jantir.

In this letter, Munsk tells of a druid who appeared on his doorstep only several weeks ago, and while drunk on Munsk’s mead, told the humble cutler about a particular copse of poplar, somewhere in the nearby forest-swamp, beside which grew a huge patch of something called [Beast Weed]. His curiosity aroused by his brother’s tale, Old Lathon visited some of Jantir’s sages and learned of the Beast Weed’s properties.

“And since ye be going in that direction, I thought, maybe, ye can visit my brother, who would happily provide ye lodging, and maybe, ye can find this insidious weed. Not a knight-worthy quest, I grant thee” Old Lathon went on smiling, honey dripping down his chin, “But think of how much coin we can sell it for, Kyrian!” he concluded.

Re: Convergence (Chap IV)

#234

The strange northern knight impressed Vorodon with his tale of fair maidens and strange monsters. He didn’t understand some of Kyrian’s words, and Adan seemed to be holding back more than he revealed, but the idea of righting wrongs and tracking down a murderous liar intrigued him. Vorodon wondered if they could visit the “zoo” before they had to leave. He’d never seen such a place, and the opportunity to eat strange foreign creatures sounded interesting.

He hadn’t paid much attention to the argument between his friends and his new travel-friend, the strange man that called himself Kassim, but who said his name was something else now, “Terran Silverham” or something like that. Vorodon liked the name Kassim better. In the pidgin tongue of the hill county, it sounded a lot like “Khashim”, the feeling you had after a large meal: It was a pleasant thought, especially since the food here in Jantir was spiced all wrong; it made Vorodon’s stomach hurt. Others here seemed to disapprove of the mighty belches their cuisine inspired in him, clearly jealous of the Half-Ogre’s penetrating volume and rich timbre.

Their new travel-friend certainly made the Insector angry, Vorodon reflected. He didn’t see what the problem was: He’d seen dragon-kin before, in parts of the hill country. While they were nasty creatures, with their poisonous stingers and vicious disposition, a city like this should have the ability to restrain them safely. The rustic warrior was curious how Aerax got his ideas about dragons burning down villages, though. Everyone in Cottar’s Bale knew that such beasts lived only in children’s tales.

“Insector, Kasin not for seem to want badnesses. May sell egg to ‘zoo’? Zoo masters keep dragon for then.”

Re: Convergence (Chap IV)

#235

Aerex sighed. The entire situation with the eggs still weighed on him. It seemed there was little opportunity for success: putting the egg on a yacht bound for the regatta would mean waiting and hoping the fetal dragons would find a home, as Aerex doubted they would have time to sail themselves. And Dynast only knew what the zoo would do with them. For an odd reason, Matare felt an attachment to the eggs. It's that blasted druid carin, he thought ruefully, wishing for the moment at least that he did not bear the burden of rangerhood.

"I dunno, Voro," he replied. "Those eggs are... important, I think. We have to be careful who we give them to." He bit his lip. "But we've got other things to worry about too." He turned toward Talia. "You were asking about the harbormaster. You think he knows something about your father?"

Re: Convergence (Chap IV)

#236

Talia frowned at her drink. "I'm not sure. It's more of a feeling that I should talk to him." She wondered how much she should say, then decided the reason didn't matter. "I was thinking that maybe my father might be a sailor working on one of his ships, or that he'd at least know where I might look next." She didn't think she trusted a man she'd never met enough to ask him about the dragon eggs. "Surely, a gypsy working a ship would be uncommon enough he'd remember the man, if only vaguely. Of course, I haven't the slightest idea how I'd arrange a meeting to ask him."

Re: Convergence (Chap IV)

#237

Aerex nodded slowly. "I know two or three people who might be able to arrange it. A couple of them owe me favors. Hopefully, it's just a matter of asking the right people the right questions." He sipped his drink, a nice local ale. It tasted like home, like old memories. He sighed, remembering again that his father - distant as he was in his youth - was gone forever. "That reminds me," he said in a lower voice. "I need to meet someone tonight. He might know about my own father's death." He frowned slightly and looked at Talia. "I don't want to put finding your father second. The living before the dead, I always say. But I need to find out what happened to him."

Re: Convergence (Chap IV)

#238

She smiled at him. "Do what you must do, I'm a big girl. In the unlikely event we can get a meeting arranged for today or tonight, I'm sure I can handle myself." She was touched by the fact that he was going to help her, but she also understood what he meant. "Don't forget, Aerex, I'm a gypsy. And to us, nothing is more important than family bonds." She grinned slightly, then leaned over and whispered to him. "I wouldn't have you if you were willing to push your father's death aside that easily." Then she straightened up and continued in her normal tone, "And if you find that you need to avenge your father, I'll help you if you need the help."

Re: Convergence (Chap IV)

#239

Aerex Matare

Later that night, Aerex made his way along the promenade until he came upon the famous terraced bridge. His thoughts jumbled and distracting, it took him some time to find his old friend and confidante. Another two hours later, and Aerex was wandering back towards the inn, his hands in his pockets, his eyes downcast, more thoughts swirling.

It did not take Matare long to realize that Thyran was losing (or had already lost) his mental faculties. Meeting Aerex in cloak-in-dagger fashion, the old man, and a few of his equally delusional comrades, old men, tinkerers, and beggars all, first swore Aerex to secrecy, then related their master plans. This rag-tag bunch (there were four of them plus Thyran), were plotting to overthrow the Dynast and plunge the empire into its death throes.

Aerex had to ask Thyran to repeat himself several times, not believing what he was hearing, but sadly, he had understood Thyran correctly. The man was senile, or worse, mad, and as he listened to the doddering band’ plans, which involved daring castle raids, dramatic assassinations, and even poisoning the city wells along other nonsensical schemes, Aerex smiled wanly, and began thinking of other things, even as he nodded, feigning interest in the old friend’s words. He left Thyran’s revolutionary group meeting promising that he would keep the revolutionary plans secret, and promising further that he would indeed consider joining them in their ridiculous and suicidal mission.

There was only one thing which Thyran was lucid about unfortunately. Aerex father was indeed dead. But as it turned out in Thyran’s revised story, the old man had died of loniless, his heart giving out in his sleep. Nothing sordid or nefarious, and thus, even more tragic somehow.

Aerex walked slowly, fighting back tears and ignoring his beloved city. Then, remembering Talia, a light in the otherwise hazy, gray tunnel of his life, Aerex quickened his pace. It was late now, close to midnight, and for a few moments Matare realized that the air was breathable, the coolness and moisture of night, doing away somewhat with the foul smells of day.

Merchant shops were mostly closed, and there seemed to be more people now packed into Jantir’s many inns, rather than cavorting outside in its streets.

Aerex paused as he noticed a lone figure suddenly staring at him from the street lamp-cast shadows of a perpendicular alleyway. A robed woman, shaven bald, with no markings or signs upon her clothes or body that would identify her persuasion or nature in any way. Streetwalker, Aerex thought? No, he said to himself quickly. Streetwalkers don’t stare down marks quite like this he decided.

“I would speak with you, Aerex Matare. I can fill the hole in your soul”, she said evenly, and without the slightest hint of emotion. “I am Draziel. I am of the [Tagma Drakontis]”. Seeing Aerex’ brief hesitation, she continued, “I speak bluntly, because I do not like to waste words. We have seen you, and know of you.”

Re: Convergence (Chap IV)

#240

T, V, T, T, A

Talia, Vorodon, and Taran debated what to do with the eggs, and generally got to know the man who would be forever remembered, dangling, skewed upon a verbeeg spear, a little better. Taran it seemed was a jack of all trades, a bard’s bard, and it was difficult to dislike him for long, though Aerex, who had left the inn a few hours ago, would probably take more convincing.

Aerex and Tristan sat alone in a shadowy corner of the taproom, awaiting the decision of the Adventurers-Upon-Return, and discussing various topics. For his part, Tristan was anxious for the following morning, when he would attend the Symposium, while Adan predictably brooded, while thinking of his familial return. At least he was sure of one thing. Tristan would accompany the Hellschwert, as would the Knight of the Dew-Marked Rose (as soon as he returned form his dalliance anyway). If the others refused, so be it. On the very next evening the trio would leave, after Tristan’s moment of honor, and travel north.

Talia

Some time later, Talia found herself chatting with a man who both admired her looks, which wasn’t surprising, and who also seemed to have some information she found interesting, which was surprising.

Appeasing the fellow, a sailor by the looks of him, she allowed him to buy her a drink, as he answered some of her questions. The Harbormaster’s wedding it seemed was to be held upon the completion of the Great Regatta, greeting the winning sailing vessels, upon his island in the bay, which would already be full of guests, revelers, and well-wishers. A great celebration would be held, even Larnassa the Split-Lipped Queen would be in attendance.

When questioned by Talia further, the sailor explained that Jantir’s Harbormaster was both a practical title as well as an ancient one. No common official this was, but a man of great hereditary power, a unique position in the sea-side empire’s heirarchy, second only, and some even said, above(!) The current Dynast in behind-the-scenes power, though on the surface, a subordinate of the Queen.

The Harbormaster, who apparently went by no other name was officially responsible for enforcing the regulations of Jantir’s gigantic harbor and port in order to ensure the safety of navigation, the security of the surrounding sea and the correct operation of all port facilities and unions.

He lived upon a small, but heavily fortified island, only several square miles around. The island was far from Jantir’s docks, jutting from the cusp, where the Bay of Screaming Eagles met the wide open sea.

Lastly, when asked by Talia about the ship in the docks which shared her name, the sailor frowned and scratched his head. One of the Harbormaster’s own ships(!) he finally remembered. Known for bringing only the finest goods into the city proper (“taxes” from innocent, hard-working merchants and seamen no doubt! he added bitterly). Talia the ship, usually arrived from the Harbormaster’s Isle with goods, and returned to its own tiny harbor ladden with coin. Of course its common knowledge, my dear! he said when Talia raised an eyebrow. No one in their right mind would try to rob the Harbormaster.

Gypsies? Hmm, don’t know many of them. Why do you ask? He considered for a moment then added, come to think of it, the Harbormaster is rumored, only rumors mind you, of having some of the ol’ gypsy blood in him, or that he at the very least traveled with some gypsies in his younger days, one of those two, I don’t remember which.

Having finished his drink and his tale, the sailor unsurprisingly propositioned Talia to join him in his upstairs quarters, where he promised to show her his scrimshaw collection.