Begging for Questions

Kraebor went to the docks on the 18th of Savor to secure passage to Geshtei, finding passage on a talbar. The ship set out that morning, along the way passing a nivik heading upstream. Shouting between ships as they passed, the talbar's crew asked for any news from downstream. The nivik's crew had little to share, as apparently it had just returned from Chelemby and was headed for the capitol.

Kraebor made it to Geshtei late that day and asked for directions to Leyton of Sosaldas' home. He was directed to a villa on the outskirts of town. Upon arrival at the villa, the steward offered Kraebor food while he waited, giving Kraebor the chance to sup and listen to the servants' chatter. Afterwards, he met with Leyton in the solar, overlooking the street, with the lady of the house, their daughter, and two servants. They spoke for a bit about his trip and Kraebor was offered the chance to paint in the solar itself, as the room offered the best natural light. He sat with the family all evening as they played card games, reading aloud some Kandian poems to the delight of the ladies of the household.

The 19th dawned warm and breezy and Kraebor got to work painting Leyton's daughter, an attractive young lady with an unfortunate, horse-like laugh. He was able to finish the locket and portrait to a high degree in just two days, setting sail back to Coranan on the morning of the 21st. During the course of his stay, Kraebor overheard more chatter in the house, learning that Clan Sosaldas were largely a military family with many connections.

Meanwhile, back in Coranan, Tamora went out herb gathering with Slippery Pip and she tried to impart some of her knowledge upon him. His education was slow going, however, as the lad's attention span seemed ill-suited to the kind of detail required for good herb recognition. After a day spent tromping through the woods, Tamora and the young apprentice spent the night at an inn in Verus, deciding to wait until morning before returning to Coranan.

Tamora was awakened during the night in her room at the inn, the noise of a somewhat large group of people and 120 head of sheep heard outside. She struggled to sleep, tossing and turning, but she never got much rest that night. Walking back to Coranan the next morning, she and Pip ran into the same sheep herd and their drunken shepherds on the way, causing her to grumble the rest of the way home. She hid the Tirageyth on her person but the guards stopped her at the Impaler's Gate and asked to see what were in her pouches. Using sleight-of-hand, the rogue apothecary was able to pick out some legal herbs while still concealing the Tirageyth. She showed these to the guards, paying the 2 silver for taxes before she went to the guildhouse.

While Tamora and Kraebor were away, Kavon busied himself working on the metalware for the jewelry boxes, creating delicately formed and exquisitely engraved corner pieces, hinges, hasps, and small silver mirrors to be mounted inside the boxes' lids. Disturbing his careful, painstaking work, a full brace of Red Guardsmen once again came to the Malthain house looking for Enthor, and this time they weren't taking 'no' for an answer. Kavon let them search the house and Kezner's shop but Enthor clearly wasn't home. Kavon offered that he might be fishing or drinking but the Guardsmen kept looking, eventually satisfying themselves and taking their leave after a full hour spent in the home.

Unbeknownst to the Guardsmen, Enthor was speaking to Big Zab and asking him to hang out near the tenement where the witness to his latest mugging lived. The woman had seen him attack the Red Guard officer and could therefore potentially make trouble for him. As such he wanted to know if anything happened, specifically if the officer came back looking for reprisal against the woman. Nodding mutely, Big Zab argeed to keep an eye on the place.

Bail and Liakos went to the home of Falander of Ensel, Liakos' tinkerer client. Liakos found him mending crockery and introduced him to Sir Bail. He mentioned that Bail was interested in a possible betrothal to Falander's daughter, Naia, and that Liakos had secured an apprenticeship for Naia in the Clothier's Guild. Falander fell to his knees, gripping the hem of Liakos' tunic and thanking him profusely. Bail tried to make the tinker stop prostrating but he crawled to Bail on hands and knees before the knight pulled him to his feet. Bail was introduced to Naia and after some conversation found her to be a pleasant young woman. Having satisfied himself as to the girl's qualities, Bail agreed to the betrothal. Thanking them again for arranging her a marriage and an apprenticeship, Falander only asked that Bail or Liakos see her to Shiran to make sure she made the trip safely. With the agreement met, Liakos and Bail departed as it would take some time to arrange things for the trip to Shiran.

Later that evening, Kavon, Enthor and Liakos were at the guildhouse when Niles, Senator Tuvoth of Rylen's steward, called upon the guildmaster. They retired to the study to speak plainly and Niles asked if Liakos could visit with Tuvoth that night. The assembled group followed Niles back to the Senator's abode while the rain came down, eager to see what Tuvoth had to say. Liakos was shown to Tuvoth's office where the Senator was finishing dinner with a black robed, masked man. Kavon and Enthor waited in the hall. The masked man was identified as Go Darash, the Khem Kadar of the Wreaker's temple. The priest asked Liakos if he could help the church obtain some land outside the city to establish a shrine. The church had picked a choice location but the landowner seemed reticent to sell and so 'other' measures had to be taken. Liakos was tasked with causing a string of misfortunes to befall the man. Liakos mentioned that manpower concerns dogged him but the Khem Kadar offered to make an accommodation. Liakos asked for four men and they were given. With that, Liakos took his leave, bidding the Senator and the priest good evening.

As the trio left Senator Rylen's home, Kavon and Liakos noticed a man spying upon them from an alley. They decided it couldn't be a coincidence with the rain coming down as hard as it was. They played it cool, talking non-chalantly until they were directly adjacent to the mouth of the alley, then abruptly rushed for the man, trying to corner him. Kavon and Enthor tried to grab him but he backed away, hoping to use the darkness as an ally. Kavon was able to grab his legs, avoiding a hasty dagger slash for his troubles, while Liakos clocked the man the face. The jeweler managed to reinforce his grip one the man's legs and pulled his quarry to the ground, allowing Liakos to bring a boot down on the man's head and render him unconscious. Making a cursory examination of their unexpected victim, the lads found that the man had a brand on each palm in the pattern of a silver piece, marking him as a convicted Rethemi beggar. Enthor and Liakos picked the man up and dragged him to the tenement where Koral had been killed, moving into the basement and from there into the tunnels of the labyrinth beneath the guildhouse. Liakos fetched Tamora, recently returned to Coranan, while Kavon and Enthor stood guard over the unconscious man, whom they stripped down to his breeches. Tamora brewed up a narcotic potion, one that would loosen the man's tongue, and they force fed it to him some hours after he awoke.

With Kavon's canny ear for falsehood, Enthor began questioning the man. The beggar gave up that he had been hired by a factor to watch Tuvoth's house, a task he'd been doing for the past three days. The thieves had a few ideas who could be behind such a thing, but they decided that perhaps Tuvoth, and the Morgathians, would want a chance to ask their own questions, much to the beggar's detriment.

The Mercantile and the Mephitic

The morning of the 20th arose with the crew in the labyrinth with their Rethemi prisoner bound and gagged. Liakos and Kavon returned to Tuvoth's house to ask where they should take the prisoner for the Morgathians to have a turn at questioning him. A servant woke up Niles and they spoke discretely in an office. Niles asked that the man be held until nightfall and he promised to speak to Tuvoth about it as soon as his master awoke.

Liakos and Kavon returned to the guildhouse, where Liakos had Galgar assign apprentices to watch the man. A few hours later, a messenger came to the guildhouse with a missive stating that Tuvoth would like the man delivered to the Morgathian temple tonight after sundown. While Liakos was planning on just how to do that, Holger of Arketh, one of the apprentices, asked him why Kazin of Gurd was tied up in the basement. It came out that Holger had spent time in Golotha before coming to Coranan and he had originally met Kazin there some years ago. Holger recalled that Kazin reported to the Zarainsen family in Golotha but couldn't speculate as to why the man was in Coranan. The group decided to interrogate their prisoner again since they had new information. In the ensuing session, Kazin of Gurd confessed that he was supposed to meet the factor who gave him the spy job in two days at Noru, between Coranan and Geshtai. He gave a vague description of the factor before he was once again 'sedated' by Enthor.

The exhausted criminals decided to get some rest and, later that night, Liakos recruited some apprentices to pull the 'drunken buddy' routine, carrying the unconscious Kazin through the streets. They delivered him to the Morgathian temple, handing him off to a pair of acolytes before beating a hasty retreat.

The 21st of Savor rolled in windy and Kraebor walked from Geshtei to Noru that day, unable to find passage along the river back to Coranan. Bail delivered the last finished jewelry box to Kavon, who worked the silver and metals needed on them all day long. Tamora checked in on her new drug house/apothecary laboratory, afterwards seeking out Liakos to iron out some supply line issues and express a desire to branch out. Liakos offered to try and find out who the previous suppliers of Tirageyth and Fanosel may've been. The 22nd was cloudy with some showers and Kraebor left Noru, arriving in Coranan that evening.

Bending his mind to business, Liakos also paid a visit to speak to Fahazar of Bunt, the taxman, and was brought into the sweaty man's office. They were able to work out the taxes for the guildhouse and the Malthaine/Ordh house and also transferred over the guildhouse to Liakos' ownership. According to all the records that Ehrlid could locate, the house was actually owned by someone named Zandor of Hemlick, presumably some unknown fellow who was likely killed by Koral.

The 23rd came about and Kraebor was shown the completed jewelry boxes. He began painting one for Joubar of Holsine's wife, after consulting with Bail on what motif she might like. That night there were four men downstairs in the common room of the Ordh house, eating, drinking, and causing some alarm and confusion to the assembled party, which was everyone save Liakos. It was soon discovered that they were Mistress Bunting's grandson and great nephews, visiting from out of town. Her grandson was a journeyman ostler and hoped to become a groom for some wealthy patron soon. Bunting's niece came by with a hogshead of ale and so Kavon and Enthor taught the boys how to gamble by Coranan rules, showing them how easy it is to lose one's wages.

The morning of the 24th was freezing cold and the boys were eating a near-noon breakfast when they heard noises outside. The four house guests were in the street near the market getting into a shoving match with nearly a dozen roustabouts. Enthor went outside with Kraebor and Bail, who strapped his knightly short sword on. Kavon watched from the windows but Enthor shouted for him to get Big Zab, the rogue jeweler obeying and running to Ty's Alehouse to find the large bruiser. Bail was able to use his commanding presence and stern vocabulary to get the mob to move off without any harm other than some shoving, name-calling, and empty threats. He identified them as Argikan laity by their colored armbands and gave Mistress Bunting's grandson a stern talking to concerning 'fun' in the big city. Big Zab and Enthor were both disappointed that the situation had not come to fisticuffs, and decided to grab Zab's cousin Rodrick to go see if they could find anyone else to fight.

The group had a talk concerning their assignment from Tuvoth to silence Senator Ezaid of Demoreth before the next Senate session started. A few ideas were bandied back and forth and discussed at length, until an idea was hatched to drop poison down the chimneys of his manor. Tamora brewed up some fantastically lethal poison that would do its job once the victim inhaled smoke laced with it. She judged that the poison was more than enough to kill Senator Demoreth and likely anyone else in the room in which it was burnt. After a feverish session in her workshop, she had four doses ready to go.

Kraebor and Kavon visited Senator Kelen of Vanthes with the painted jewelry box and a plain one, having crafted a story that the boxes were from an unknown Lythian craftsman who had sold the wares to a traveling retailer they knew. Kelen was enraptured and demanded to be sold one, which Kavon offered at the low price of 400d. The wealthy woman didn't even bat an eye at the price, and when the option of having Kraebor personalize it was offered they settled on a total of 500d. Payment was made in the form of a gold necklace studded with rubies, a piece that Senator Vanthes felt had "fallen out of fashion." Kavon was nearly drooling at the sight of it. Once negotiations were concluded and pleasantries were underway, Kraebor was able to small-talk Kelen about the senate, specifically Senator Ezaid of Demoreth (himself a wealthy mercantyler), asking if there was a merchant he could rely on to move more of the rare jewelry boxes. They learned that Ezaid had a winter townhome north of Coranan, a nice spot along the river about an hour ride away. They further learned he would be staying there throughout the upcoming Senate session. Before they left, Kelen extended an invitation to Kraebor for a fete she was hosting on the 29th.

Kraebor and Kavon next visited the Halean temple, and while their priestess friend Althea the Silken loved the work, she couldn't afford it due to tax season. She recommended that the boys speak to the Ralithina, who would return to the temple on the 28th after concluding her tour of the temple's winery estates. The two artists chatted with Althea and she asked them to bring the 'delicious' Sir Bail by when they came to the temple next. They had to wonder how Althea would react to news of Sir Bail's betrothal but kept it between themselves.

The two then handed the painted box off to Bail to bring to Joubar on the 25th. Bail found Joubar at Caer Kuseme doing paperwork on officer commissions. They chitchatted about military affairs before Bail presented the box to him. Gushing over the extravagance of the gift, Joubar roped Bail into presenting the box to his wife, Sora in person. Joubar's quarters were right here in the Caer, so Bail and Joubar retired to his chambers and had a table set. Bail emphasized that it was a gift when he presented it, and Sora was completely blown away by the quality and work. She was even more elated at the mention of his engagement and was impressed that his bride to be was apprenticed to Rylas of Logue, as Sora was a fan of her work. They talked about politics and Joubar mentioned he would be at the Vanthes party on 29th, though there was still some grumblings about Joubar taking the heat for the recent riots in Kuseme. Ever the loyal soldier, Joubar was volunteering to take the political thrust meant for Marshal Kronas. Both Bail and Sora hoped that could be avoided. Loyalty would not go unrewarded but the political arena could be just as deadly as the Pamesani.

Bombs Away

Midnight on the 25th of Savor saw the group convening to talk about the regicide. They decided to send out some beggars as a scouting party to discover the location of Senator Ezaid of Demoreth's town home the following day. The 26th of Savor was calm, warm, and foggy and so Enthor headed out that morning to look for mugging victims. Using the fog as cover he soon found a man rolling a barrel down an alley. Enthor rushed in, smashing the man in the back of the head with his sap and knocking him out with a single blow. Handily stepping over the comatose body without missing a beat, Enthor nonchalantly kept rolling the barrel down the alley and straight back to the Malthain/Ordh house, where he stashed it in the storeroom of Kezner's shop. Finally taking time to inspect his prize, Enthor learned that he had snagged a barrel full of pickled eels. The family would eat well for the next few days!

Later that day, Slippery Pip showed up with some leaves for Tamora, though he had a mixed bag of Tirageyth and poison ivy. Tamora schooled the city-born lad, showing him how to tell the difference. She then put together an antidote salve for the poison ivy to begin treating the angry red weals already forming on the young man's hands, feet, and face.

Drawing a complete zero for once, the beggar scouts returned the night of the 26th and reported that they had come up empty on the location of Senator Demoreth's townhome. Knowing a little bit about the general area, Kavon recalled that there are two manors, Tuwora and Swhen (both held by the Asarn clan) in the right area. And given that clan Demeroth was a cadet branch of clan Asarn, it was most likely near one of those. Kavon and Enthor decided to head out there as it would only take a few hours to examine both manors and return to Coranan. They left the morning of the 27th, a warm, calm day, and set out along the northern road.

They come upon the Tuwora manor and continued through, coming upon a villa between Tuwora and Swhen. When they inquired of a man trimming apple trees, the thugs were told it was the residence of "Master Demoreth," so they figured it must be the right place. They checked out the house in detail as they walked by and then got lunch at a tavern in Swhen before heading back to the guildhouse and reporting their findings to the Liakos.

In his capacity as guildmaster, Liakos gathered Enthor, Galgar, and Huvien in a private room on the second floor of the guildhouse. Galgar was there because Huvien was technically his man, and Liakos didn't want to step on any toes. Galgar approved Huvien doing a job for Liakos, then excused himself before Liakos explained the job. Liakos then told Huvien what would be required of him, with Enthor providing valuable intelligence on the location. Huvien asked for 50d to cover some gambling debts and Enthor asked for some food money before they both left for the Demoreth manse with the poison briquettes that Tamora had prepared.

Knowing that they were dealing in serious crimes with heavy repercussions, the rest of the group decided to split up on the night of the 27th in order to establish their alibis. For most, this involved getting baths at the temple or gambling at The Stake.

Enthor and Huvien got to Swhen later that night, and waited until 2 am before making their move. Enthor helped Huvien get onto the wall and from there the contortionist-burglar was able to pull himself up onto the roof. Exhibiting his flexibilities, Huvien was able to sneak into each chimney, folding himself into it head first and then reappearing head first, somehow managing to turn around completely within the narrow confines of the chimney. Tossing two of the poison-laced down into the fireplaces of each of the two chimneys and pulling the dampers closed after himself, the poison-laced smoke was trapped within the confines of the house. Making his escape, Huvien's rope got caught around the second chimney, however, and so he had to make a perilous free climb down the wall, almost slipping once, before he and Enthor made their way away from the townhome and back to Coranan via a circuitous route.

Meanwhile, Kavon, Tamora, and Liakos were gambling at the Stake with Galgar and some others, as well as Sergeant Malias of Throging and some of his Red Guardsmen. Kavon took 11 silver off the table by the end of the night, causing some of the Red Guardsmen to complain about having to eat at the mess until their next payday.

Kraebor and Sir Bail, however, were establishing their alibis by bathing at the Halean temple, where Althea the Silken attended to Sir Bail herself. She mentioned she had been further pondering the 'creative destruction' conversation they shared some time before. She gave him a good scrub down, particularly his feet, and then led him to another chamber. She stripped Sir Bail of his robe and bade him to stomp and crush to his heart's content, pointing to a barrel where grapes awaited mashing. Wondering aloud why he was naked, she replied with a smile, "Grapes stain, my lord." She then stripped down herself and joined him.

Aside: Players observations at this point: "Oh, man. People are going to drink that wine!"
"Dude, we're probably going to drink that wine."
"That is so not sanitary..."
End of aside.

As Sir Bail received Althea's private attentions, Kraebor stayed in the public rooms eating and drinking and trying to drum up some painting business. Alas, as the 27th was an off-night at the temple the only notable personality present was the debt-ridden, broke-ass Senator Turin of Markaz, with whom Kraebor commiserated over money troubles. The Senator mentioned that he had a factor in Livelis who was putting together a mercantile venture for him but reports were overdue and a ship expected in Golotha hadn't arrived. When Senator Markaz spoke privately with one of the priestesses, Kraebor took the opportunity to put his evesdropping skills to good use. The priestess was cordial with Senator Markaz but was not willing to grant an extension of his line of credit. She indicated that he had until the end of Morgat to repay the Halean Temple and while he had secured an extension from the church, she reminded him that the church was aware that he also owed Zorna Irdime. Kraebor filed this information away for later use.

The next day, however, was definitely an "on" day at the temple, given that it was a mere two days before the convention of the year's Senate session. All of the Republic's luminaries were in town. Kavon and Kraebor went to the temple early that day and spoke to the Ralithina about the jewelry box. She was interested and offered them wine as payment ("Eeeew!"), and then offered a chance to invest in the temple's bid to buy the Palace of Yellow Moon, the courtesan house where Kraebor's embarrassing triptych was hung. The box would garner them a 2 pound investment and the boys were very interested. They spoke about potential business matters for some time and offered to have Kraebor decorate the box for her in advance as a token of good will. They returned that night along with Sir Bail to attend the ceremonies and festivities, though Kavon spied a man he barely recalled as Horbeth, the exclusive holder of the minting rights for Shirani pence. Suspecting that the man might recognize Kavon by face from years back, the rogue jeweller squeaked out before he was spotted.

Kraebor advertised his painting talents and spoke to a few people to try and drum up business, but the big topic everyone was talking about was about the hideous death of Senator Ezaid of Demoreth, his wife, their two children, and over a dozen servants. Apparently, all were slain by fell sorcery last night! It's a terrifying scandal to be sure and some even murmured that it was unwise of Ezaid to anger a man favored by the Wreaker, though these whispers were quickly hushed.

Notable personages at the temple that evening included Evenor of Mariam, looking to finally fill a seat in the Senate. One of the Khonary sons was also angling for a seat in that august body. Kraebor also overheard someone say to Demosa of Aquil that if he would support the man for Senator, the man would support Demosa for Treasurer. And so it went. Sir Bail kept away from the talk about politics, the assassination, or anything else thought-provoking and simply enjoyed his time at the temple.

After leaving the temple to avoid being recognized, Kavon rounded up Enthor and paid a visit to Mirisna. He pumped the Kotros madame for information as to just how much money the Palace of the Yellow Moon could make for him in a month if he invested. Mirisna talked shop for a while, then casually mentioned that she was still holding up her end of their bargain and that as a result Kezner had already gotten kicked out of her establishment once since she had come back. Smirking, they left for the Ordh house and wondered where Tamora was, though she was at her apothecary lab making antidotes to vicious poisons "just in case."

The next day, a messenger delivered a missive sealed in black wax with a skull sigil to Liakos. The message was simple. 'Your donation to the cause was generous beyond our imagination and we are wildly happy with it. We look forward to doing more business in the future. Please visit us soon.'

The night of the 29th saw a well dressed Kavon and Kraebor at the home of Senator Kelen of Vanthes, ready to enjoy the party. With all the high society in the house, they were sure to hear something that'd earn a silver or two.

GM's Note: Here we have a bit of treat. Given that only Kraebor and Kavon were attending the fete at the Vanthes manse, we decided to do a little play-by-forum for this one. What follows is lifted directly from our forums, and should hopefully give you a different perspective on how this game is actually played.

Also, you'll note that this section is in the present tense, which hopefully is not too jarring given the narrative up to this point. Anyway, we hope you enjoy it, and without further ado give you:

Kelen's Soiree

The night of the 29th of Savor is perfect for a party. After a hot clear day, perhaps the last gasp of Jarin summer, the evening is warm, clear, and calm. Looking up, the new moon's absence magnifies the starlight by comparison, making it seem that every star in the sky is shining down on the fete. As the night deepens, however, the fogs so common to the Thard valley creep in, blanketing the city in an otherworldly calm.

The manse of Kelen of Vanthes is packed. The list of luminaries is long, and it seems that most of the Senators in attendance have brought an entourage, and indeed the lowest attendants (grooms, footmen, guards, etc) are actually housed next door at the manse of Senator Gethedyle of Yemala, who has graciously offered his house for the purpose. Because the number of guests far outstrips the size of the largest space in the Vanthes household, the entire house is in use, with each room serving as a party in miniature, and guests roving freely between them. This gives the party a more intimate feel than such a large gathering would normally convey.

Minstrels and entertainers are in abundance, and already politically important figures are gravitating towards each other, renewing acquaintances and discussing matters of consequence in hushed tones.

Notable guests include Marshal Kronas of Elernin, as well as his son Ryburn and Ryburn's wife (who looks somewhat put-upon). Tiergal of Asarn, whose father is now the President of the Senate is there as well, and he and Senator Karad of Exenion were half-drunk before the party even started. Senator Demosa of Aquil is quietly holding court amongst his supporters and potential allies, and Senator Trennet of Fethrin (himself an ordained Save-K'noran priest) is holding forth a discourse on astronomy on one of the house's many balconies. Senator Xeldon of Pesed, also Marshal of the Kom Legion, is surrounded by a number of officers from various legions, telling war-stories and enjoying the company of other men who know the true cost of the kind of opulence on display this night. Senator Yeredar of Arnoth is a hanger-on in this conversation, but not the "alpha male" and clearly somewhat put-out by it.

Notable by their absence are Senator and Prefect of Coranan Toribir of Wejik (who has begged off citing the amount of work required to prepare for the upcoming session), Senator Turin of Markaz (who is apparently becoming something of a social pariah), and Evenor of Mariam, scion of the wealthy Mariam clan and Senate hopeful. Rude barbs imply that young Evenor fears an attempt on his life, which many take as an insult to his gracious host and to Harmon of Kainel, the commander of the Red Guard who is also in attendance this evening.

Because the party extends throughout the house, announcements of various arrivals are really only made in the dining hall. Though Kelen herself is nearby when you arrive, she gives you both the merest of nods, as she is already involved in conversation with a number of influential folk.

The party, in all its pomp and majesty swirls around you. Servants bob and weave carrying flagons of fine wine and tasty morsels for your pleasure.

What do you do?

GM: BTW, if you want or need to make a roll for something, just tell me what you're rolling and what you got.

Kraebor: At the beginning of the party, I'll circulate and mainly look for painting opportunities. Using negotiation with court etiquette in complement I get 5, 5, 4,3,2,1.

As the evening progresses, and it looks like tongues are beginning to wag, I'll try to gather new information on the Teamsters vote. My results are 17,10, 5, 3, 1 (idle chit-chat & court etiquette)

And just a general, noticing/listening to others conversations. Int & observation gets 8, 8, 4, 3, 2, 1.

Is Senator Nordaka there?

Kavon: Kavon will give a similar nod in greeting to Kelen of Vanthes, thank his lucky stars that his arrival isn't being announced, and make his way to her wardrobe where she's kept the new jewelry box after grabbing a drink and some hors d'oeuvres. Any admirers present?

GM: All three Senators Nordaka are in attendance. Wysele (the "grand dame" of the Senate), Jakyth (the current clanhead), and Gyvren (his brother), as well as Cobart and Amerak of Nordaka, who are the current Marshal and Magistrate respectively of Coranan province. They are the sons of Jakyth and Gyvren. Kraebor can't remember which one belongs to which parent, however.

In terms of painting opportunities, Kraebor is approached by an extremely fat man named Borisir of Wytel, whom Kraebor knows to be the Magistrate of Gerium province (of which Geshtei is the capital). Borisir compliments Kraebor on the work done for Leyton of Sosaldas. "If you can make Leyton's little trollop look that delectible, I'll bet you could make me look downright regal, a-hahaha."

Yes, Borisir comes across as queer as a three-sided penny. And he gives Kraebor a sort of "appraising" look. But given his mode of dress, his smooth, freshly soaped, baby-soft-looking skin, his perfumed, elegantly coiffed hair, and finely embroidered, silk-backed robes, he is obviously very wealthy. And he seems interested in having Krabor do a portrait. He even jokes that the canvas will have to be large, to better capture his entire personage. Apparently Borisir is totally cool with being a fat bastard. He invites Kraebor to come to the Magistrate's residence in Geshtei at any time. Or perhaps, if Kraebor were more interested in a "private sitting" (and he actually winks here), he adds that he's staying at the Scroll and Quill until the 8th of Ilvin. Then you are effectively dismissed as he flits (surprising given his girth) away; "Oh, Gethedyle! How ARE you doing..."

In terms of rumors, loose lips, and idle chit-chat, this place is the fekking jackpot. Kraebor picks up the following tidbits:

• Ezaid of Demoreth was almost certainly done in by fell sorcery. There is actually some blowback against the Morgathians of all people, and Senator Cullen of Bathrys proposes dragging the Khidarmur (high priest) of the Wreaker's Temple before the Senate to "answer for his crimes."
• Uven of Gelt has met with a number of high-level functionaries within the government, most notably Toribir of Wejik, the Prefect of Coranan. It appears that these are negotiations that more clearly define the roles of the Teamsters within the city limits of Coranan proper. Given that most land-owners are against their plowsmen and drovers becoming guilded, it looks like the Teamsters are settling for a charter that allows them to operate only in urban areas.
• If the Teamsters become guilded, it is likely that Minzal of Sule, master litigant and current head of Mangai, will lose his seat. There are already mutterings.
• Senator Pyselle of Onandos, a wealthy master miller and owner of the city's largest fulling operation, has already been "testing the waters" for Sule's job. Onandos is something of a blow-hard, but he's well connected. He's also vehemently opposed to the Teamsters, viewing them as little better than rabble.
• It is whispered that Kelen of Vanthes is with child, and that the child is Ryburn's
• It is whispered that Ryburn's wife is with child, and that the child is Kronas'
• There is a large diplomatic contingent of Laranian clergy from Kanday in town. Though none are present tonight, their leader was invited. His absence has rankled some, though Kelen seems unconcerned and is overheard to defend the man. "I'm sure that their arduous journey through the border-lands was taxing. Mayhap they are simply too tired for festivities, and wish to be well rested for their appearance before the Senate."
• The 4-year-old grandson of Senator Ondol of Morlorn is still missing, bringing yet more sadness to that already sad house.
• Raenar of Lund, the Haruspex to the Senate, doesn't go anywhere in the city without an armed guard these days.
• Tiergal of Asarn has a new gladiator who he says will follow in the footsteps of his former champion Usel the Swift. He plans to debut the young woman in the games tomorrow.
• The post of Magistrate of Kom province has stood vacant for a year. Ezarn of Halan, formerly the legar at Stimos, has been put forward as a candidate, and is here in Coranan to see and be seen.

There are folks in the room where the jewelry box is displayed (prominently upon a side-table, I might add), but talk is mostly focused on rumors and politics. As he circulates through the house, Kavon does come across a couple having clandestine sex in an out-of-the-way alcove. As soon as they are spotted they break off and hastily go their separate ways. Make me an appropriate roll to see if you recognize them.

Kavon: How wicked! Coranan High Society with Thardic Politics in complement: 9 5 3 2 2

GM: You're pretty sure that the woman is the wife of Jithias of Mariam, Marshal of Gerium Province. You know she's from another influential family, but you can't remember if it's Nordaka or Elernin. You also know that the dude she was with (whom you do not recognize) was not Jithias of Mariam, as he is currently chilling with the other soldiers telling war stories in the front parlor downstairs.

Kavon: Kavon'll raise his eyebrows and clear his throat at the scandalous scene but turn his eyes from it and give the two time to make good their escape. Don't want to make a scene, no telling who's here that might know my name. Is Ryburn staying well away from Kelen? He might remember me as Sir Bail's manservant.

GM: Ryburn was already at the party by the time you guys arrived, so you don't know if Kelen greeted him then. But she's playing the busy hostess, and he's spending his time mingling. His wife is on his arm the entire time. Ryburn shows no indication of recognizing you (he's mildly inebriated and rolled no higher than a 3).

Kavon: I'd like to strike up a conversation with someone talking about Ezaid about the proposed bridge plans the late senator had, and their future now that Ezaid has, er, moved on from this world. Do I need to roll any appropriate skills for that?

Kraebor: Kraebor will circle between the room with the jewelry box, and the room with the mural. I'd also like to listen in on and note who is near Demosa of Aquil. Is Kronas in the room with Xeldon?

GM: Kavon strikes up a conversation with a couple of affable gentlemen who are discussing Demoreth's demise. One of them is a mercantyler from Telen named Wilom of Ulter (whose uncle is Senator Faranor of Ulter). Kavon would remember that this is the same clan Ulter that is mentioned in the Lia Kavair archives as being "connected" - Wilom is basically a loan-shark.

Anyway, at Kavon's subtle prompting Wilom and his pals (most of whom originally hail from Telen) start talking about the bridge project. It turns out that while Demoreth was backing the idea, it is originally the brain-child of Senetor Jereth of Kainel (cousin of Harmon of Kainel, current Warden of Coranan). Demoreth wanted new port and warehousing facilities built at Telen, and agreed to support Kainel's plan as a sort of quid-pro-quo.

On the topic of the bridge itself, feeling seems mixed. Wilom seems to be pro-bridge, but probably because his clan has such close economic ties with the Nordakas. But one of his compatriots thinks it's a complete boondoggle and waste of funds. "Why would we want a bridge to the gods-forsaken marshes on the other side of the Thard?" Another quips that he hopes that [Senator] Jhered of Asarn doesn't plan to support this plan the way he supported his candidate for Warden. This gets a laugh, but goes over Kavon's head. This is the point at which one of Wilom's compatriots says to Kavon, "You look familiar, sir. Do I know you from somewhere?"

Meanwhile, Kraebor circles Demosa of Aquil's party. He is surrounded by a number of other Senators and hangers-on, including a man who turns out to be an ambassador from Rethem. At one point Senator Aquil excuses himself from his friends and has a private word with a man whom Kraebor recognizes as Senator Pargos of Elbrin, also from a wealthy Shirani family. The conversation is brief and pleasant, and leaves Kraebor with the impression that the two have made plans to discuss a matter further at a later date. Demosa then returns to his group and resumes his conversation, which at present revolves around the nuances of well-crafted theater production.

Kraebor, please make a Perception check (Int + Observation in complement).

BTW, Kronas and Xeldon seem to be moving in different circles. Xeldon spends pretty much the whole night with other military men, whereas Kronas is surrounded by political folk.

Kavon: Kavon will smile at the man and shrug, "I've attended some of Kelen's other parties but perhaps you know me from the temple? I'm a steward in the employ of the Ordh clan. My master, Sir Bail, is a close associate of Althea the Silken." Kavon'll change the subject to the teamster 'menace' before separating himself from the conversation to go search for more wine. He'll mention in parting that he desires to see the painting of Kelen, he's heard great things about it.
Negotiation (Con) + Psychology in complement: 16 9 8 7 5 4 4 4 1

GM: The assembled company buys your story, and one goes so far as to say, "Ah, the Temple. Of course." On the topic of the teamsters, this group is universally opposed, not surprising given clan Ulter's mercantyle roots. And when you mention the painting, Wilom himself directs you to the room in which it hangs. One of the older members of the company says, "I wish Master Malthain had painted her in her clerical vestments. Though time hasn't diminished her beauty in the least, I remember what she was like when she was still a priestess. Dressed in gossamer and samite the woman could halt the very heavens themselves when she entered a room."

Kavon is thus able to part from the group amiably and naturally.

Kavon: Kavon'll take his leave from the party after another goblet of wine and some more food.

GM: And Kraebor, I'll use the Int+Obs/2 score you rolled from above, as it's still appropriate.

As Kraebor is watching Demosa of Aquil, he notices a man enter the room on several different occasions. He never speaks, but you catch that he circles until he gets to a place where Demosa can see him clearly, at which point he makes a series of subtle hand gestures. After receiving the merest of nods from Demosa (extremely subtle - and in fact Kraebor twice observes the Senator doing it while he's speaking), the man again circulates to another part of the house.

Kraebor: As Kraebor circulates can he pick up on where Demosa's man goes?

GM: Kraebor spots Demosa's man a couple different times. In every situation he's being unobtrusive. If you want to get a better idea of what he's up to, you'll need to follow him more closely, which will require a Tailing roll (though I'd let you use Courtly Etiquette in complement to more smoothly "blend in" with the party).

Kraebor: I currently have a 9, 5,4,4,3,1. If I need to reroll failures to blend, I will do so.

GM: No need, you have 2 successes to my 1. You are able to unobtrusively follow the guy around. He is going from room to room. In each case he will loiter for a few moments, oftentimes craning his neck and looking from side to side as though looking for a particular person. On at least two occasions Kraebor observes him politely interrupt a group and say, "Excuse me, but have you seen <so-and-so>? He was here just moments ago and I wanted to ask him about <inane topic>."

Kraebor realizes that this gives him the opportunity to overhear snippets of conversation, as well as to gauge reactions of different groups of people when he brings up a particular person's name. He does this for a few moments, then returns to the room where Demosa is holed up and makes his report in some kind of subtle sign language.

Kraebor: Okay, I think Kraebor will just enjoy the party for a while, and then leave when it starts to wind down.

Acquiring and Conspiring

Rising early on the 30th of Savor, Kraebor went to find Molis the Magister before the Pamesani games were underway, advising him of Tiergal of Asarn's boasts of his new gladiator. Molis knew of the woman, named Seleene, but hadn't yet inspected the two convicts she was to fight. Molis downplayed Tiergal's words, knowing that the man was an unrepentant drunkard, though he did give fair credit for promoting Usel the Swift. But he cautioned that only time would tell if Selene would be better.

Enthor, Kavon and Sir Bail arrived at the Pamesani shortly before the games began and Kavon departed to go sit in the Agrikan box, again a guest of the high priest for whom he had done some fine jewelry and engraving work. As the boys met up with Kraebor, a runner arrived to tell Molis that the convicts seemed to be tough, one being particularly beefy and huge. Molis gave Seleene 5 to 4 odds on winning her debut match.

The games were soon underway and it wasn't long until the awaited match came about. Seleene, aka "Black Seleene," entered with much fanfare that was a mix of adulation and consternation. The gentleman next to Kraebor was haranguing her, believing that no woman had a right competing in the arena, and so Kraebor made a 10 silver bet with him. The man offered 5 more if her corpse was defiled after she lost, but Black Seleene won handily, dispatching her foes with ease. Kraebor smiled smugly as his betting partner groused and turned over the wagered silver.

Kavon overheard some talk in the Agrikan box, where some visiting priests were present for the games. He recognized heraldry on the guests as belonging to the Order of Herpa the Mace. The conversation took place in the Agrikan tongue, and everyone seemed quite focused on the conversation. The word 'Themeson' was repeated often and there was a disagreement that almost turned to steel, but Kavon couldn't follow due to the language barrier. Kavon knew Themeson was a keep in eastern Rethem, formerly western Tharda, that was seized by Agrikans some years ago.

Sharing this tidbit over dinner and drinks after the games, Sir Bail was able to fill Kavon and the others in on the rest; The Agrikans took Themeson keep in 708 from the Gerium legion, seizing several of the surrounding mines and manors in the process. In 714 there was a split in the Order of Herpa the Mace, creating the Order of the Eight Demons, which sponsors the Cohort of Gashang, who now hold the keep. The issue is a constant thorn in the side for rulers from both Rethem and Tharda, and has been the cause of a bloody feud between the two Agrikan orders ever since.

As the boys relaxed and talked religious politics, Tamora did some research in the archives concerning drugs and narcotics in which she discovered the notes of one "Tamzin the Fair." Tamzin was the source of all things fanosel twenty years ago in Coranan. According to his notes, he used to deal with a young journeyman in the Omagil Lia Kavair named Trallek of Bolrin. Success! She marked her notes, reminding herself to speak with Liakos (and Trallek) later.

Just after dinner Kraebor was given a message from one of his apprentices, reporting that they had found 'him' and they knew where he was going, referring to the steward of Punat of Khonory. He was glad of their work and intended to recruit Kavon to the mission later. He and Enthor went to the Kotros guild meeting at Vudrin's house. There, they learned that Maltus was back in town, and apparently had managed to con his way into possession of an island, much to everyone's surprise. Also during the course of the meeting, Synainova was given control of the turf that had belonged to Yeremor, much to her dismay.

At the Apple Inn during the overall Lia Kavair meeting, Trallek revealed he had custody of one of the Kerabin criminals, and had been sitting on him for the past three days. Argon had knocked a few heads but seemed to have things well in hand in converting Kuseme to his way of doing business. Dewell was very happy with how things had worked out for the Thard and had little to report otherwise. Liakos offered Argon and Dewell to get fitted for Kurbul armor from Darae of Kygax's shop. The other guild heads reported that things were starting to get back to business as usual. Approaching Liakos after the meeting, Huvien had seemed nervous and made mention of maybe leaving town for a while. He was given permission and so he decided to visit Tamora beforehand, asking her to perhaps accompany him for a little while. She demurred, brushing him off.

That night, Liakos took parchment and wrote an apology on it before stamping it with his own bloody hand and leaving it with 2 pounds of silver in the center of the labyrinth for the Navehans. He got his hand patched up by Tamora afterwards, hoping that more blood wouldn't be needed.

That night, at Ty's Alehouse, Kraebor heard the tale of Maltus conning someone out of an island in the Thard. It was owned by someone who logged it and replanted it and Maltus went to him posing as a merchant. Maltus conned him into financing an expedition to Karejia and putting up the island as collateral. The ownership of the island switching hands was buried in the contract despite other escape clauses. The island was sold to another person and then sold to Maltus, with the second record being lost, giving the original owner no leg to stand on. Maltus didn't know what to do with the yeomanry that the island afforded, but Kraebor suggested he should offer it to Liakos to dispense as he saw fit.

The boys (absent Enthor, who was at the Glaive & Sickle looking for a fight, as was his post-Pamesani habit) walked to the guildhouse to meet up with the rest of the party. Once there, Maltus pitched the island to Liakos. Liakos was interested, as his uncle Oris of Malthain was a timber wright. It could be a good match. Liakos asked for time to speak to his relatives and advisers but was intrigued at the concept of having an island as a front. After Maltus and Synainova left the impromptu meeting, Kraebor shared with his brother what he found out at Kelen's party.

Kraebor mentioned to Kavon on the way home that the steward of Punat of Khonary's mistress had been found and he needed Kavon to convince the man to let them steal from his master. Kavon was glad for the challenge.

On the 1st of Savor, Kavon went to collect his slave money from Thantar of Mirking. He also visited Tazel of Molesby, intent on restarting the counterfeit gold coin endeavor. Tazel had another caper in mind, however. He knew that Corani coin strikers were due to be destroyed some time after the 15th (once the Senate had approved the new coins) and he'd be willing to help make the job easier if Kavon knew someone who would be willing to steal one. Kavon offered to take the job to a friend and for the striker he'd supply the gold for a new counterfeit coin and do the trim work himself. Tazel thought that was an excellent trade and the two men agreed to explore their options.

After all, breaking into the mint couldn't be too difficult could it?

Medicinal Massacre

The first of Ilvin saw Liakos and Bail planning their trip to Shiran. They planned on escorting Naia, Bail's betrothed, to Rylas to begin an aprenticeship, but a side trip to inspect Maltus' island was in the works as well. The matter of paying for Naia's apprenticeship was unanswered, but Kezner was able to supply the Emelreni lace that Rylas had wanted. They decided to take a boat upriver and easily found passage on the 2nd, embarking and heading out that morning. On the first day of the voyage, they saw smoke ahead of them, and eventually sailed by a manor, Kennin, that was partially burning. Three men on horseback were leading six people away, all of them roped together at the neck and clearly taken as prisoners. The three horsemen appeared to be Agrikans and there was screaming and clashing of steel heard from the village. Liakos was fairly certain Kennin was held by the Asarn clan and knew that something was brewing, something more than just Agrikan aggression. Knowing better than to borrow trouble with Agrikans, the boat simply sailed by to Shiran, the rest of the trip proving uneventful.

Meanwhile, back in Coranan Enthor and his crew walked to Kerabin to find some of the rogue Lia Kavair in hiding but they had to give up in the early afternoon. The townspeople seemed to know about the troubles that were going on between the crime gangs and wanted no part of it.

Tamora and her incompetent quasi-apprentice set out for the nearby forest to look for corpseplant and tirageyth. She left her apprentice at the city gates before heading into the forest alone. She was working for some time, looking for herbs, when she realized she was being followed. She slipped a potion of her own making, one that heightened her reflexes, out of her satchel and drank it down before deciding to draw a dagger. A voice told her that wouldn't be necessary, and a bowman stepped out from behind an uprooted tree.

The archer, naming himself as Clem, mentioned that she was in the lord's wood. Tamora replied that she had simply been looking for helpful, beneficial herbs. She asked who their lord may be such that she could avoid his lands in the future. The man responded that his lord was Halgar of Krenna, and that Tamora would have to answer to him. Another man appeared from behind a tree, without a bow but carrying a few dead conies. Tamora was happy to leave but Stipe, the new man, asked if she had any herbs that might make their rabbit taste better. Tamora turned it around on them, insinuating that it's Lord Halgar's rabbit and not theirs. Stipe seemed confused but Clem decided to push the issue and ordered Stipe to check her bag.

Tamora tried to persuade them to go their own way, but Clem told her to drop the bag and step back. Making a pretense of unlacing the sack, Tamora deftly used sleight of hand to secretly coat the inside of the bag with one of her instant paralyzing potions before she tossed the sack to Clem. He set his bow down and picked up the bag, groaning at the wet spot he found in disgust, then issuing a weak groan and falling over as the fast-acting paralytic took effect. Quickly drawing a secreted dagger, Tamora let it fly, the knife burying itself in Stipe's chest. She rushed him as he fell and slashed at his neck with yet another knife. The man rolled over, trying to crawl away before she stuck him again in the neck, killing him instantly. She searched both men, recovering her dagger from Stipe's chest and wiping it clean on his tunic.

Clem had witnessed the short, brutal combat, but in his paralyzed state he could do nothing. Tamora spoke to him about threatening people in the woods and learning lessons. It was too late for Clem to learn any lessons, she opined, but that didn't mean that she couldn't. Keeping up a constant commentary about his value as a specimen for her physician's studies, she vivisected him for an hour before he began twitching, regaining the use of his body. She regretted aloud that they didn't have more time together before opening up his aorta. She took Clem's silver Peonian pendant off of him for her own memento.

She spent some time hacking up Clem and Stipe to cover up the methodical, precise nature of her murders before heading off to a stream to try and clean up, as she was literally covered in blood. She did a passing job of it before heading back to Coranan, still soaking wet and looking quite bedraggled. Some guards teased her about falling into her laundry tub and she took their good-natured ribbing before heading to the Ordh house.

Bail and Liakos arrived in Shiran on the night of the 5th of Ilvin and they made the introductions between Naia and Rylas. Naia was looking forward to being her apprentice and Rylas began giving her the rules of the house, admitting to Bail and Liakos after Naia left the room that she was impressed with the young girl. They had a chat about Naia's life experiences and Rylas asked Liakos how his business was going. He produced the lace, which sent Rylas into a tizzy, and she thanked him profusely. She invited them to the dining room for food and drink, and talk ranged over a variety of subjects. Bail mentioned the Agrikan disturbance they witnessed and Rylas was sorry to say that she had a problem with an Agrikan herself. She had used expensive orange silk to trim the cloak of the Grandmistress of the Order of the Eight Demons but no payment seemed to be forthcoming. Next time, she'd get the silver up front.

Bail went on about his recent efforts to shed the sell sword life. He had the title, a house, and a betrothed, so he was confident he was on his way. Rylas was happy for him and explained that she had graduated an apprentice and business had been well. Liakos spoke about the teamster riots and their efforts to become a guild, gauging Rylas' response. He believed that guilding them could help stabilize the flow of goods, but Rylas thought it might do more harm than good. Bail argued that controlling a team was a skilled profession and should be treated as any other. Rylas had to agree with that, but wasn't enamored of their methods. Rylas had a room prepared for the two men for the night and after seeing that all was arranged took her leave.

Kavon was at the Scroll & Quill that night, waiting for Ezarn of Halan to appear. He did, eventually, with a scribe and his son in tow. Kavon introduced himself with a bottle of wine that he shared with the men before cagily approaching Ezarn about speaking in private. They retired to Ezarn's room, though the scribe wouldn't leave, and Kavon revealed some of what he knew concerning the secret silver mine near Stimos. Ezarn had heard rumors and had been investigating himself but needed evidence. He was in bed with the Miners' guild on a number of projects and their ruin would mean his ruin. That said, he could cement his bid to become the Magistrate of Kom province by revealing the mine. Kavon stated that he could acquire the necessary evidence against them and cited revenge as his primary motivation.

Ezarn had a dim view of Kavon's chances, knowing how powerful the Miners' guild was in Stimos, but if Kavon could produce the evidence, Ezarn would present it. Kavon agreed to the deal and made arrangements to meet with Ezarn's wife, who was formerly a Denby. He would give her a letter from Ezarn when he arrived in Stimos to begin his investigation. Helping Ezarn would help Kavon, in the long run, but Ezarn wasn't aware of that just yet.

Creating a Mess

The morning of the 3rd saw most of the crew assembled at the Ordh household. Kavon spoke to Kraebor about the pence-striker job at the mint and offered to have Tazel meet him to explain the details. Responding in kind, Kraebor summoned his apprentices to fill Kavon in about the steward of Punat of Khonary and where he was meeting his mistress. Apprentices Rand and Mykkel led Kavon to a tenement in western Coranan where on multiple occasions that had observed a woman arriving slightly before or after the steward. When pressed for details on her appearance, the two teen-aged apprentices could only remember that she was a blonde with huge teats. Ah, youth.

Kavon decided to try and bluff his way into the building to do some more scouting, wanting to know if there were any spare rooms, but a bitter old crone stopped him at the door, believing he was a thug for Hasker of Lem. Kavon defended his honor and strode away in a huff, making his way to the Glaive & Sickle with Rand and Mykkel. A patron was getting tossed out when Kavon arrived, his ear thrown into the street after him. The bouncers here did not mess around. Enthor was there by fortunate coincidence, the rain outside having driven the brute indoors. Kavon joined him and bought a round of ale for the boys and Enthor before he spotted Hasker of Lem. He picked up a bowl and walked over, asking for information on the building. Hasker offered to rough up the old crone for information and while Kavon would appreciate that, he didn't want Hasker to get his hands dirty over what might turn out to be nothing. Enthor was recruited to do it instead, and so he followed Kavon to the building. Enthor approached and knocked on the door while Kavon waited down the street out of sight. Also inquiring about rooms to let, the old crone told him they were full up, then slammed the door in his face. Kavon, defeated, sighed as he led the thug back to the bar.

Once back at the Glaive & Sickle, Kavon told Mykkel and Rand that he wanted to know who the blonde mistress was. He gave them each another bowl of ale and then sent them on their way. Enthor was pleased with himself (for no apparent reason other than his inebriated state) but Kavon wasn't very happy as they continued drinking through the afternoon.

That same day Kraebor visited Talkin of Grenders' house, his steward asking him to wait while Talkin was awakened. The steward noted that Talkin's health had been failing lately and the old man was largely confined to bed rest. Kraebor took in a bit of reading while he waited and when he was finally walked in, the bedroom smelled like death. Talkin had bed sores and it appeared they had become infected. Kraebor offered the services of an apothecary he knew, which was fortunate since Talkin's last apothecary had been arrested for poisoning.

GM's Aside: the framing of her former master Jond of Karin for Tamora's crimes has continued to produce all sorts of hilarity and unintended consequences. End of aside.

Kraebor began to talk business with him, offering to pick up the slack of forgery work in Coranan. Talkin cited Baran's rout as the death of his business and didn't think Vudrin would have been filled in on proper contacts. Talkin mentioned how difficult forgery could be but he was drifting in and out of the conversation. He offered to teach Kraebor and Kavon what he knew, giving Kraebor a book filled with different types of paper with test writing on each one.

Kraebor and Talkin spoke at length about paper, its manufacture, and ink-absorptive qualitied before the steward ushered Kraebor out. Kraebor visited Solina of Abarl on his way home, asking her to check in on Talkin if she could while idly chit-chatting her about Jond of Karin. It was revealed that his nefarious practices went farther than any of them could have guessed. While he was in the caer awaiting execution, he was implicated in the death of Ezaid of Demeroth! As it had been determined by the authorities, the slain Senator had in fact been poisoned and not killed by fell sorcery. Already facing execution, Jond made a deal with the Prefect of Coranan to give up his co-conspirators in return for a quick death, delivering the names of Koral of Geldryss and Tamora of Logue.

GM's Aside: See what I mean? Jond of Karin knew that it was Tamora who framed him, and when jailhouse rumors of a high-profile poisoning reached him, he saw an opportunity to get his last revenge prior to his own execution. By falsely admitting to his own involvement in the matter, he was able to tie Tamora to the crime of regicide. The irony here is that his lie implicates her in a crime that she actually committed. What tangled webs indeed. End of aside.

The Prefect of Coranan, Senator Toribir of Wejik, was aware of the issue and had asked for Tamora of Logue to be brought in. Kraebor made a point to Solina that he would tell Kezner since he occasionally dealt with 'questionable' persons. She thought the warrant would be useless soon as Harmon of Kainal, her patron, would no longer be Warden soon. Azikain seemed a likely winner and Solina knew that he had commissioned a portrait from Kraebor.

That night, the crew returned to the Ordh house for dinner. Tamora had spent the day making potions, the same speedy potion she used before and she handed one each over to Kraebor, the lightly drunk Enthor, and Kavon. Kraebor revealed what he had discovered about Jond of Karin. The crew talked about what actions Tamora should undertake to avoid capture and where she should be living before they could talk to Marwin of Hylde. Kavon convinced the house staff that Tamora had been a victim of injustice. The three boys helped Tamora carry her things to the guildhouse that night since she could live there without leaving.

The day of the 4th was still rainy and windy. Kavon returned to the Ordh house for breakfast and grilled Mykkel and Rand for more information about the blonde. Mykkel described a distinctive hair style she wore and Kavon seemed to remember seeing a woman matching that description at the Halean temple on several occasions. He described her to Kraebor with a bit more detail but he couldn't recall any other details either. Kraebor departed across the street to the temple and talked to the Solithar on duty, asking if they remembered a busty blonde with the distinctive hair style. One of them named her, remembering her as Elise of Kolfax ("Ah, sweet Elise!"), of some possible relation to Dalid of Kolfax. They didn't think the two were siblings, possibly cousins. They weren't sure, but all agreed that she was a regular at the temple.

Kraebor gave Mykkel and Rand the list of things that Tamora would like 'stolen' from her flat and brought to the guildhouse, providing them a lesson in burglary. They managed to break in and re-lock the door on the way out, delivering the goods to Tamora. Later, Rand expressed a desire to learn to read and Kraebor began training them on picking more complicated locks. Kavon visited Talkin's house and sat with him to learn the art of wax but they were interrupted by Solina of Abarl. Kavon excused himself and returned to the foyer to sip cider and read a book about the origins of Kusem and Prince Neramor. He studied with Talkin for another few hours before he left and visited Tamora at the guildhouse. She had set up shop in a corner of the guildhouse armory and Kavon melted down the Peonian holy symbol she had lifted off of Clem. She took the day to craft a new narcotic, something she had taken to calling 'Nightshade', and was pleased at the mildly addictive euphoric. Meanwhile, Enthor began teaching Rodrick, Big Zab's cousin, on group tailing and learning the lesser-known by-ways of the city. The crew had their own goals and setbacks, but progress was being made all the same.

A double-dose today!

Surveying the Battleground

The morning of the 6th of Ilvin dawned cool and overcast in Shiran when Bail and Liakos arose. They decided to look at Maltus' island before doing anything else but needed to determine where it was. Maltus had said it was across from the manor of Twillir, and was the bigger of the two islands. Rylas didn't have much advice on how to get there but said that they should try the market. Taking her advice, they encountered a merchant, one Rankin of Hommlet, selling apples. A local to Twillir, he agreed to take them there after he sold his goods. With some time to kill, the two decided to go to the Rafters' Inn, where Kavon had previously encountered Sebeth of Talizyn, a known Shirani Lia Kavair boss.

Inside the bustling inn, Liakos spotted a dice game in full-swing. As Liakos eavesdropped, Sebeth's name was dropped by one of the players, so the two decided to approach. Recognizing the name once Liakos introduced himself, Sebeth kicked out one of the broke players to free up enough seats at the table. An agreement was reached on the stakes and gambling was once again underway. The winner (neither Liakos nor Bail) took nearly two dozen silver over the next few hours. Jokes and stories were told to everyone's entertainment during the game and Liakos found Sebeth to be friendly. When Sir Bail expressed an interest in masonry, one of the fellow players, a mason's apprentice named Kurzon, invited Bail to a job site where they were repairing the wall at the river's undercut, though the knight demurred, excusing himself and Liakos to make their appointment for their return barge trip to Coranan.

They met back up with Rankin, who was wondering if they'd be willing to buy a handful of dried apples for just a penny. Rankin proved to be a non-stop chatterbox and was very excited to be the local guide to a knight. He told Liakos and Bail that Twillir was owned by the Dethale family, the second largest land owning clan in Tharda. It was situated on the river and was over 1000 acres in total size, much of which was given over to orchards, the produce of which Rankin sold on behalf of his patron. The village was built on a big berm to avoid the regular flooding, but Rankin opined that was impossible folly to defeat Mother Thard. He believed that the river would swallow Shiran because of its sinfulness. Once in Twillir, Rankin introduced them to the local thatcher who had room for them in his well-to-do home.

The thatcher's wife was enamored of Sir Bail but he gently rebuked her advances, siding with the thatcher on his dim view of the legions. She decided that the legion life wasn't as romantic as she'd heard after Bail stated some of the gruesome realities of war and soldiering. The night passed without incident. The 7th of Ilvin was again cool and overcast, though there were showers by mid-morning. Rankin came back and offered to put the pair in touch with a local fisherman who would be happy to row them out to the island. The crusty old fisherman was glad to row them to the island and stick around for 2d, which Liakos happily paid. He also told them that the locals called the place Marson's Island, though he had no further insight as to who 'Marson' might be or how the island got its name.

Back in Coranan, on the 5th, Kraebor decided to check out the Mint. He couldn't get in but decided to approach the governor of the mint at the temple later. He and Kavon went to Tazel's house and Kavon introduced him to Tazel as 'Raboz' and let the two of them iron out the details of stealing a striker. They went over how to counterfeit strikers to swap for the real article, and Tazel provided an intricately detailed map of the mint. The question of when and how Kraebor could make his way into the Mint arose and it was revealed that teamsters brought in wood and charcoal all the time to keep the smelters running. Guards were posted around the building in fixed positions, which Tazel also noted on his map. More talk about how to smuggle the strikers out was made but Kraebor began to feel more confident about the job. They burned the map and took their leave, agreeing to meet again in several days.

Kavon and Kraebor next stopped at the Halean temple. Even though it was an "off day," the place was very popular and everyone was talking shop, politically. Among those present was Senator Jhered of Asarn, the nephew of Melvid of Asarn, the presiding President of the Senate. Jhered's claim to fame was the record for the longest speech ever delivered in the Senate, a tirade in support of Azikain of Gelber for nearly 3 days and 3 nights at the end of last year's session. His ploy hadn't worked, however, and his latest speech about the riots was only on its first hour when sufficient votes were garnered to bring this morning's session to recess. Scuttlebutt had it that there were ongoing negotiations to replace the Treasurer and also to select a Magistrate for Kom province. The Prefect of Coranan has been renewed for a fifth term by a quick and easy vote, though a fight was once again brewing over the post of Warden.

Kavon and Kraebor soon found Elise of Kolfax, and as the night went on she was getting well-soused. Kraebor was able to get her to himself at some point and proceeded to swill wine and idly chit-chat with her, hoping to pick up any tidbit that might be useful for blackmail purposes. He learned that as it turns out she was married to Dalid's brother Arvin of Kolfax. Excusing himself from Elise for a moment to get more wine, Kraebor shared this information with Kavon.

Kavon recognized Arvin as a tax assessor he had seen before and one of the fellows who was was often present at the temple baths getting his feet massaged. When Kavon found Arvin in the expected location, he was enjoined in conversation with another bureaucrat, a census taker. The two were very opinionated about the teamsters and that was the chief topic of conversation (though it naturally led to talk of the riots and the recent episode with the $#@! wagon). Kavon talked to them all night until Kraebor was able to escort Elise home. Along the way he found out her maiden name was Wejinal and that she served as a mistress of the chamber to another bureaucrat. In talking tawdry gossip with Kraebor she had given a laundry list of other people having affairs but never mentioned Punat of Khonary's steward. He left her at her home and met Kavon back at the Ordh house.

Unbeknownst to everyone else, Tamora began making more poison, intending to introduce it to a doppleganger and fake a suicide. All she needed was a suitable body-double. Surely someone matching her general physical description could be found in Coranan. But one thing at a time, she concentrated on the difficult task of recreating the horrificly toxic poison used to kill Senator Ezaid of Demoreth.

The 8th of Ilvin was cold, overcast and storms were brewing so the crew mainly stayed inside. Tamora made poison and tinctures to dye her hair and skin, Kavon made a fake striker and Kraebor trained his apprentices. The weather was horrible until the 10th, freezing and breezy. Enthor was out with his crew that night when Big Zab was hit with the contents of a chamber pot. He almost killed the offending citizen, but Enthor convinced him not to. It seemed like Zab wouldn't be the last one to be mired in filth, however.

Setting the Stage

On the 7th, Liakos and Bail toured the island, checking out the various timber available and found an old poaching campsite. Their crusty fisherman guide mentioned that it may not have been a poaching camp, as teenagers did tend to go to the island to do what teens do. They then rowed back after discussing ways to improve the island and potentially increase its profitability. They decided to check out the tavern in Twillir and chatted up the town drunk, who was a cotter down on his luck.

Liakos learned from the drunk that the owner of the island was of some relation to the lord of Twillir, a Dethale, and that the place was called Marson's Island, though no one could say why. It had apparently changed hands multiple times in the drunk's life time. He then went on about the Dethale clan, noting their prominence in Shiran. The clan head was as well as his brother were Senators, and their cousin (who was increadibly rich) was the Magistrate of Shiran. She's also friends with Debryne of Tilry, the current Halean heirophant. A new plan slowly took shape in Liakos' mind, that of somehow approaching the Dethale clan to see if they were interested in keeping the island in the family. If Kraebor and Kavon could approach them with the sale of the island, they may be able to make quick money out of it after all.

Meanwhile, back in Coranan, Kavon and Enthor were acting on the next part of the plan to blackmail the steward of Punat of Khonary. They tailed him when he went to the market. Not exactly subtle, the man was inadvertently spooked at being followed by a brute like Enthor. His fear eventually turning to panic, he broke and ran straight to the nearest representative of the Red Guard, who happened to be Dalid of Kolfax. When the steward pointed out the men who had been following him, Dalid was confused as to why anyone would be afraid of Kavon. Not one to lose an opportunity, the jeweler approached openly and introduced himself to the confused steward. Explaining that he meant no harm at all and with Dalid to vouch for him, Kavon convinced the steward to retire a short distance to the Hook & Capstan for a bit of wine and conversation. He learned the steward's name, Jerdan of Khonary, before Kavon revealed they knew about his affair with Elise. Jerdan was nervous and Kavon explained how a token of appreciation for their silence was all he was looking for. Jerdan agreed but seemed oddly relieved. It appeared to Kavon that there's more than an affair going on. Kavon was wary but decided not to press the issue since Jerdan had readily agreed to the bribe. Kavon gave him instructions for handoffs at the Pamesani games and took his leave.

Meawhile, Dalid spoke to Enthor, wondering about what Jerdan was getting himself into. Enthor promised him it wasn't anything big, but they'd keep him in the loop if it became bigger. Dalid mentioned that Harmon of Kainel might be packing up his office and a purge in the officer corps would come with the new Warden.

With their suspicions raised over the true nature of Jerdan's "affair," Kraebor directed Rand and Mykkel to the job of finding Elise's employer. The two lads were quickly successful and brought Kavon and Kraebor around to the house so they could see it themselves. Kavon didn't know the name of the lord of the house but knew he was a senior clerk in the senate. Kraebor hatched a new plan to gain information, and decided to get some truth serum from Tamora to drug Elise, ostensibly after luring her into posing for a painting for him. He planned to slip her the drug on the 14th and then try to find out what else she and Jerdan may be up to.

Kavon and Kraebor arrived at the guildhouse to visit Tamora. Kraebor got the truth serum he needed for Elise while Kavon collected the Nightshade Tamora had concocted. He went to Aranoal's Inn to speak with Shemlen about selling the new drug. She decided to try it out and took 5 doses but asked him to come back in two days time. If it produced the desired effect and sold well, she would buy the rest.

Up river, Bail and Liakos returned to Shiran and meet with Sebeth, giving him a message to deliver to Sams the Fletcher. If Sams swore to only work for Liakos, his Coranan privileges would be restored. They then decided to leave for home, getting stuck in Telen on the 11th and arriving in Coranan on the 13th of Ilvin. The morning of the 14th was cold and windy with showers, drizzling away the previous night's dusting of snow. There was a lot of discussion concerning the trip to Shiran, and later that afternoon Enthor idly wandered about town searching for a suitable doppelganger for Tamora.

That night, Kraebor, Kavon, and Bail visited the Halean temple. They opted for baths and Bail encountered Nythalar of Tolen, who said he'd resign his commission if Gelber became Warden. The young lieutenant wondered aloud if Bail could hook him up with Liakos of Malthain in the event that he found himself no longer in the employ of the Red Guard. Bail played innocent and Nythalar bought it, mildly astonished that Sir Bail didn't know that Liakos was "the Prince of Coranan."

Meawhile, Kraebor found Elise amongst the revelry and pitched the idea of having her model for him. She found it to be a wonderful idea but wanted to discuss it with her husband, Arvin, first. Knowing Kraebor's growing reputation in both the temple and Coranan society, Arvin liked the idea as well. He gave his leave for Kraebor to escort Elise across the street to the Ordh house for the sitting, and said that he would stop by later to retrieve her. Wanting to maximize Kraebor's time alone with Elise, Kavon ran interference, chatting to Arvin about politics well into the night.

From behind his easel, Kraebor worked his wiles, expertly palming the drug into Elise's wine and using her lowered verbal inhibitions to good effect. It didn't take long for Elise to reveal that she and Jerdan passed messages between Punat of Khonary and her employer, a senior clerk by the name of Alec of Tars, one of the trusted clerks of the Chief Clerk of the Senate, Senator Varbrin of Cosele. Elise believed that the messages being passed were some kind of espionage. She conspiratorially revealed to Kraebor that she found the idea dangerous and sexy, and Kraebor (playing the part of the dilletante artist perfectly) only encouraged her behavior. Arvin came by some time later and loved the sketches, deciding to commission a portrait of Elise, much to her delight.

Myriad Challenges

The morning of the 15th of Ilvin was cold and overcast as the city prepared for the Pamesani. The entire crew, save for Kraebor, decided to head out to the games to watch Jond of Karin be executed. Kavon and Tamora were seated in the Agrikan box, Tamora wearing a thick cloak and an orange veil to accentuate her newly red hair. Kavon introduced her as 'Keladry' to the clergy present. Starting off the day's games, an old soldier of an Agrikan fighting order was voluntarily burned at the stake. Shortly thereafter, Black Seleene was scheduled to fight again. She won against another gladiator who was spared for his valiant showing, though his left knee cap was crushed by her mace. After a short struggle between some convicts and a bear, the execution of Jond of Karin finally took place.

A headsman was there as Jond had successfully argued for a swift execution. A warrior of the Order of the Demon Pameshlu the Insatiable had been appropriated to be the executioner, the man wielding a gigantic sword. They made Jond kneel, asked him if he had any final words and when he declined they struck off his head. Two Morgathians waiting in the wings took his head and body away, much to Tamora's confusion and unease. Jond hadn't been a Morgathian when he was alive.

Tamora and Kavon met up with Liakos and Bail, both of whom were talking shop with Trallek. Introductions were made for 'Keladry' and they soon split off after some small talk. Liakos and Trallek spoke about the four new recruits that had been appropriated from the Morgathian church. Trallek was thankful and stated he would begin training them promptly, thinking that four was good enough. Trallek also mentioned that he was helping shuttle in fanosel for Shemlen of Aranoal.

The Pamesani reconvened after nightfall for a special promotion by the Aquil clan. At great expense they had some procured some Molkurian Sky Fire and decided to amaze the crowd. A group of men were running around with torches between tubes, setting off muffled explosions in them before brightly colored showers of alchemical sparks went off in the sky. Everyone was incredibly impressed.

The Lia Kavair meeting in Kotros went off without a hitch. Synainova, who had been put in charge of Yeremor's old turf was not happy about it. Maltus was angling some other con concerning some senator's son and Falorin was doing business as usual. Later, the heads of the various gangs come to the Apple Inn, joining Liakos, Bail and Kavon. Argon and Dewell were working together well and Argon had completed the purge of those he didn't trust or like. He mentioned making 'Liakos' Bargain' to a few of them, telling them they can work for him and all things would be forgiven. Argon wanted to start a group of highwaymen to rustle horses and cattle from the Kanday border.

Maldros, the Snake of Kerabin, had been spotted since the last meeting but escaped capture and was still at-large. The Kerabin member captured previously was still 'on ice', so to speak. Dewell of Joltruin had a man running labor graft in Eldin who had gone missing, possibly because of Kerabin. Liakos wanted to talk to the captured ganger. As the meeting took its usual progression from talk of business to a more social gathering, Synainova approached Enthor. Enthor needled her about the agony of responsibility. She asked him to put in a good word for her with Liakos. She hated working for Vudrin and running Yeremor's crew, and would rather go back to her old role as an assassin and enforcer, switching chapters if necessary.

Enthor cut himself loose of the meeting and traveled to the Glaive & Sickle, finding a bar fight already in progress! Hooray! He got in a few licks and represented himself very well. Taking his licks in return, he ended the evening simply battered and not overly bruised.

Meanwhile, with Tolliver of Wentz in tow, Kavon visited Shemlen of Aranoal to conclude their drug deal. She had decided to try out the Nightshade on her son, not a good paying customer, and the drug had had the desired effect. They decided on 4 a price of silver per dose and Shemlen asked a customer, Lomin, to try some out. Lomin was only too eager and Shemlen decided to buy the rest from Kavon right then. He bade her good night and walked back to the guildhouse.

The 16th through the 18th were freezing and windy with showers, with snow falling but not sticking around. The 19th was cool and partly cloudy, but it had been the warmest over the past four days. Liakos helped train people at the guildhouse, Tamora made more drugs and Kavon visited Talkin twice to learn more about sealing wax. Enthor put in a good word with Liakos for Synainova. Liakos figured this was going to happen sooner or later but had hoped to put it off. Taking Synainova out of Vudrin's organization would be a blow and couldn't be done until there was talent to replace her.

Falander of Ensel arrived in a panic that morning at the Ordh house, asking to speak with Master Liakos. Enthor and Kavon were there and invited the man to speak with them. He told them how the young man that Naia had been seeing before, Homlis of Turgen, a journeyman in the employ of master chandler Itis of Semel, had a man show up at Falander's house demanding 'satisfaction' from him after sun-up on the 20th. Kavon and Enthor assured the rattled tinker that he and his wife would be safe. Making good on their promise, the two men retrieved his wife from the Ensel home and brought her back to the Ordh house. Mistress Bunting fawned over the terrified tinker and his wife while Kavon and Enthor left to go handle things.

Enthor and Kavon had Big Zab and Rodrik watch Falander's house while they visited Itis' shop to pay a visit to Homlis. Homlis turned out to be a smug little prick who wouldn't listen to reason, confidently boasting that his champion Yeged of Sarl would be able to punish the old tinker for breaking off the betrothal to his daughter Naia. A long-time devotee of the Pamesani, Enthor recognized the name of Homlis' champion as a sellsword former Legionnaire who had washed out as a gladiator.

Leaving Homlis to chortle smugly to himself, Enthor and Kavon left. Enthor figured that Homlis' champion could probably be found at the Glaive & Sickle, and perhaps they could outbid Homlis or get him to be a no-show at the duel, but he wasn't around. They swung around to the guildhouse late in the afternoon and informed Liakos of the situation, the assembled party considering their options. Perhaps Falander needed his own champion, and who better than Naia's current betrothed, the brave Sir Bail?

Fighting for Honor!

The crew spoke at the guildhouse about how they could handle Yeged of Sarl and Homlis of Turgen. They decided that 'enhancing' Sir Bail with combat drugs and beating Yeged in a 'fair' fight would be best. They wanted bards to watch the fight so that the tale could be spread and Bail's reputation could grow accordingly. As such, Enthor, Sir Bail, and Kavon went out looking for minstrels while Tamora brewed up more of her muscle-enhancing, pain-deadening drugs. They found a trio playing and singing at The Stake and Enthor spied his friend Malias of Throging there as well. Enthor spoke with him about past events; the fight with Argon and his would-be ambush crew, the teamster arsonist tip that netted Malias a promotion, or other more mundane matters. Malias had nothing but good things to say about Enthor, and would obviously continue to be a good source of information amongst the Red Guard posted in and around the Impaler's Gate.

While Enthor was drinking and catching up with his contact, Kavon invited the lady singer, Lyris, to sit with him and Sir Bail between sets. Playing his part to the hilt, he asked for advice on wooing women after winning duels. Suspecting a pick-up line, she half-heartedly gave him some tips gleaned from what tales and songs she knew, but didn't take the bait to come and watch the duel

The trio decided to next head to the Glaive & Sickle and, lo and behold, a minstrel was playing there. Bail requested something heroic and romantic, explaining he may have to kill a man on the morrow. Kavon chimed in that the knight was fighting for the honor of his betrothed. With some brandy to wet his whistle, the minstrel was more than happy to play the request. The minstrel (one Amalreth of Tarvid) stayed with them for most of the night, talking quite a bit about other heroic tales and ballads he knew. He was so taken with Sir Bail's story, he even offered to be his second, and would certainly come to witness the fight. They were happy to take his offer, then took their leave, heading to the Scroll & Quill. Another minstrel was in attendance there, reciting lyrical epic poems. Kavon bought a bottle of wine, making mention of the situation and gaining the minstrel's attention. The minstrel was happy to recount an Ivinian epic for Sir Bail for inspiration. But considering himself something of a high artist, he wasn't terribly interested in Bail's tawdry story, and so the boys finally went home.

The morning of the 20th was cool, breezy and a light rain drizzled from the overcast sky. Everyone walked out to the west commons with Falander to await the challenge. Homlis arrived with Yeged and another fellow. There was some talk between Homlis and Falander about giving up, but Sir Bail was set on answering the challenge. All business, Yeged merely nodded and donned his helmet. The two combatants limbered up and the fight began with a honorable salute from each man. They circled one another for a moment or two, gauging their opponent, until Yeged was able to deliver a glancing blow to Bail's side. The big knight shrugged it off, but it gave him a taste of Yeged's speed - uncomfortably fast. They faced each other down, trading some complimentary words before and in between trading more blows, parrying slashes or absorbing hits when they were forced.

Whenever possible, Sir Bail needled Homlis for his lack of honor and manhood. The distraction cost him, however, as Yeged was able to draw first blood. At this point, the ex-gladiator drew back, asking his employer whether the drawing of first blood was sufficient to satisfy this matter of honor. But having been needled and insulted by Sir Bail, Homlis demanded that the knight be made to yield or die. Yeged merely nodded, asked Sir Bail if he was ready to continue, and resumed the duel. Sir Bail continued to deride Homlis, enraging him, with much snickering from Kavon. Kavon began to throw insults as well, ridiculing Homlis to his face, eventually inciting Homlis to attack him! Kavon and Homlis traded a few blows until Kavon was able to knock him to the ground, calling him a "fat little baby." Sitting in the dirt, Homlis began crying. With a sigh, Yeged said, "shall we tend to the children, Sir?" Sir Bail admitted that that might be for the best. Given that he had earlier sustained a cut across the chin from Sir Bail, Yeged used it as a pretense to yield, ending the duel. The taciturn ex-gladiator then helped Homlis' other friend attend to his employer's bruised face and ego.

Yeged and Homlis' friend eventually dragged Homlis back home while Amalreth ran ahead to The Stake to prep the early morning crowd. When the assembled Malthain clan arrived to break their fast, it was to cheers. Amalreth had spun a tale of comedy and heroism, painting Homlis as a mustache-twirling, goatee'd villain. Yeged even got a cheer when he arrived as the honorable champion who took his honor more seriously than his pay. Much rejoicing and partying and drinking was had by all, and in the process Bail learned more about Yeged's past in the Kom legion.

Ruckus!

The party continued at The Stake on the morning of the 20th. Amalreth decided to head to other taverns to spread his story, and mentioned that the Stake's proprietor Umen of Ewesar usually knew where he could be found. Bidding the Malthains and Sir Bail a good day, he left humming his newly composed tune. For his part, Yeged was cordial and polite to Sir Bail, and the two men shared the easy camaraderie of legion veterans. Sir Bail tried to delicately suss out Yeged's openness to doing business of a less above-board nature, but the somewhat taciturn ex-legionnaire truly seemed to have a solid sense of duty and honor. Apparently, it was one of the things that had shortened his career as a gladiator.

After taking finishing their meal and taking their leave from Yeged, Bail and Kavon decided to go the Halean temple for a bath to recuperate from the duel and talk business. Tamora stayed at The Stake to look for someone who could distract her for a time and perhaps earn her some money, while Enthor, already well-sauced, went to the Glaive & Sickle.

As the big man pushed open the door to the inn, he was greeted by a brace of Red Guardsmen. The group appeared to be rounding up people and Enthor quizzically watched them until the sergeant spied him. As soon as recognition registered, he shouted, "Get 'im!" Enthor, in his drunken state, decided to flee! Tipsy as he was, Enthor started plowing through the busy noon-day streets, laughing madly and enjoying himself quite a bit as he fled the Guardsmen. Answering cries of "Stop that man," a good citizen tried to stop the inebriated brute but got knocked to the muddy cobbles for his efforts.

Enthor turned a corner amidst more shouts from the Guardsmen behind him and saw a small gathering of field-hands ahead with shovels and picks. Doing their perceived civic duty, the men fanned out so as to block the street. Enthor aimed at the smallest one, trying to slam him aside with a dropped shoulder. The man simply stepped to one side and stuck out a burly arm, clotheslining Enthor and sending him flying to the cobbles. They grappled with one another and Enthor had the wherewithal to smack him in the face. Another field hand tackled his legs, pinning Enthor's lower half as the huge thug continued to brawl. Enthor kicked free of the man grappling his legs and began to struggle to his feet. He got kicked on the way up but finally broke free, resuming his flight. Looking over his shoulder he called out, "I'm Enthor the gods-damned Sap, you can't catch me!" before promptly slamming into a rain barrel and going down. The guardsmen caught up to him, one waving the point of a spear in his face to discourage any further shenanigans. They then trussed him up and unceremoniously marched him back to the caer.

Kavon and Bail were enjoying their baths, as well as some wine, cheeses and a scrub down from some Halean priestesses. All out of breath, Rand Hayloft rushed in, escorted by two Solithar who took a dim view of the urchin inside the temple. He reported to the bathing men that Enthor had been dragged to the caer by Red Guardsmen. Kavon and Bail gave each other a knowing look before Kavon asked if Enthor was bleeding. Rand said he might've been, a little, and so Bail and Kavon assured the lad that Enthor would be fine. The Solithar escorted Rand back outside while Kavon and Bail resumed their bath and began to talk furniture, taking into consideration the fact they still had a wagonload of Anzelorian hard wood in a warehouse.

Meanwhile, back at the Stake, Tamora spied an older gentleman coming into establishment as she took her lunch. He sat down and immediately started drinking, and drinking hard. Tamora observed this with a critical eye, sizing up her mark. Procuring a bowl of ale, she joined him at his table. Commenting on his sad mood, she mentioned that it was unfortunate that he hadn't been there earlier to hear a humorous tale to cheer him up. Incredulous, the man asked perchance if that tale had been told by a bard named Amalreth. When Tamora nodded, he threw his hands up in despair, bemoaning his journeyman's stupidity. As it turned out, the man was none other than Homlis' boss, Itis of Semel! Tamora had to stifle a grin. The man began to blame Homlis' problems on women, stating how men lose all their brains around them. He felt especially foolish for having arranged for Homlis and "that tinkerer's brat" to get together in the first place.

Itis kept drinking heavily and Tamora decided to slip him some of her 'stupid' potion into his ale. A deft flick of the wrist was all it took, and Itis of Semel's inhibitions (and resistance to suggestion) began to wane. As he drank, he told her about how Homlis was professionally screwed. Itis knew that no other chandler, besides maybe that low-life Kezner of Flack, would ever take him on now and he was beginning to think it was high time for Homlis to head elsewhere to "perfect his craft." Tamora gently encouraged Itis that he was right, nudging his addled brain to reinforce the notion.

After their baths, Kavon and Bail retained the services of their favorite litigant Marwin of Hylde and walked to the caer to see Enthor, who was still drunk. They then went before the court and found out he was wanted for indecency, public drunkenness, public urination, causing a disturbance, and resisting arrest. Quite a list! Enthor couldn't remember doing most of these things, but he couldn't exactly remember not doing them either, so a plea of guilty was entered on his behalf. The punishment was 3 days in the pillory and 30 silver, but Kavon argued for 5 lashings and 60 silver since it was cold outside. Greasing the skids of Thardic justice with coin did the trick, and the judge agreed. The next morning, in sleet and wind, Enthor was brought out and given his lashings before being turned over to Kavon and Tamora for safe-keeping and recovery. It wasn't the first time and almost certainly wouldn't be the last.

Commercial Terrors

A missive arrived from Joubar of Holsine at the Ordh House, though the good knight was at the warehouse in Omagil creating more furniture out of the stolen Anzelorian hardwood. Joubar was extending an invitation to good Sir Bail for a hunt, their prey an Aklash or man-eating bear in the countryside. The creature had left horribly eviscerated bodies in the woods some time ago and people living outside the city walls were concerned that after getting a taste of human meat it might strike again! Kavon and Enthor simply shrugged and stated they would pass the message on to Bail when next they saw him. Tamora looked oddly serene.

Kavon, Tamora, and Enthor decided to look over the market for a suitable doppelganger for Tamora. They needed a woman who was a good enough match to pass for her but wouldn't be missed when her inevitable disappearance occurred. Kavon and Enthor seemed a little put-off by the grisly task but helped all the same. They were able to find a woman who roughly matched Tamora's build and look, but Enthor lost her while attempting to tail her home.

That afternoon, there was another knock at the door. A civic official and a hand of Guardsmen were investigating a potential crime. Sighing at what he expected to be yet another trip to the caer, Enthor was surprised to learn that the officials were there to question Kezner. Apparently one of his customers had found a child-sized human tooth in one of his candles. Kezner and Kavon were able to weave a tale of animal parts being purchased after the riots (gods only know who provided them) and were able to dissuade the official and his men from further investigation of Kezner's reeking rendering vat.

Later that evening while the group was drinking at Ty's alehouse, Thantar of Mirking arrived and sought out Kavon immediately. Thantar was in a prickly situation and hoped Kavon could assist him. He had recently acquired an unruly, clever slave that had killed another slave and almost escaped twice. He wanted to sell the slave for a decent price but he wanted to be rid of him quickly. Kavon agreed to try and find a buyer but he'd like a look at this terror in the morning.

The 22nd was sleeting and windy again when Enthor and Kavon visited Thantar. The slave in question was kept in a separate cell in solitary confinement. The guards shackled him and brought him out for inspection. The man was grizzled, strongly built, and curiously had the number 120 branded into his forehead. The slave said that it was what 'the idiots in Techen' thought he was worth. Kavon inquired what his skills were and the man said he could hunt, was a decent rider, and could start a fire in any weather. After a long pause, he stated that he could also read. Kavon was impressed but left to ask around about selling him.

Enthor and Kavon talked to their Agrikan friend Berutas of Kujik first. The priest was in a jovial mood and glad to see the two, talking with them at length about Aklash and Vlasta, and he even showed them a Yelgri with its wings clipped, held captive in a cell awaiting the upcoming games. They told Berutas about the slave and he was interested enough to decide to see the man for himself. They brought Berutas to Thantar's place of business. The slave spat at Berutas' feet when he was brought out again but the priest and the slaver came to an agreed price of 126 silver. Kavon received a 10% fee from Thantar for his help in finding a buyer before he and Enthor walked back with Berutas to the Pamesani. They then immediately visited Molis at the Glaive & Sickle to informed him of the slave and the new monsters, as well as their estimations of betting on the slave before taking their leave.

Bullrush

Tazel reported to Kavon on the morning of the 22nd that the strikers would be moved in the mint. Tazel's plan was a little complicated in terms of timing - he planned to start a fire near the mint's smelter. In the ensuing chaos Kraebor, working incognito as one of the laborers bringing in charcoal, would slip in and swap the real striker with the fake. To insure that, Kraebor would have to take the place of a teamster.

Bail finished up the headboard and footboard set made from more of their stash of Anzelorian hardwood on the 22nd of Ilvin as Liakos met up with him to check on progress. Liakos then met with Meldyn of Ulaby. They spoke about politics and Liakos expressed a desire to meet with Uven of Gelt. From Meldin Liakos learned that Uven was losing influence with the teamsters, becoming increasingly marginalized as the Senate applied political pressure to get the organization to cut ties with the firebrand leader who had organized the riots in Kuseme. A teamster named Hallis of Karth was named as the likely successor of Uven as teamster leader. Meldyn thought it wasn't fair that Hallis would prosper because of Uven's actions where Uven would likely get hanged. Liakos asked to have Uven meet with him that night.

Uven of Gelt arrived just three hours later at the guildhouse. Uven and Liakos explored the options of how Uven could avoid the noose and insure his family's safety. Liakos mentioned needing a brother gainfully employed and Uven suggested speaking to Hallis directly about it, opining that now would be a good time to speak to Hallis. If the Lia Kavair were to have any continuing influence with the teamsters, Liakos should begin exerting power now. The two arranged for Hallis to come to the Apple Inn for dinner that night.

Meanwhile, Sir Bail went to the caer to meet up with Joubar and inquire about the aklash hunt. When he arrived, the yard was a flurry of activity. Horses were being saddled and Sir Bail was given a boar spear and a horse to go into the woods with Joubar and a full company of men. Joubar recounted a horrific tale of two cottars who were found in the woods with their entrails strewn about but not feasted upon. Bail was skeptical but Joubar asserted that Bail hadn't seen the bodies himself. No normal animal did something this vicious and brutal.

On the way to the day's hunting grounds, Joubar and Bail talked about the Senate hearings concerning the riots. Joubar was steadfast in his defense of Marshal Kronas and the Eidel legion's actions. Bail was upset that Joubar was in such a bad political position, and Joubar seemed to think that there was no good outcome that didn't involve some flavor of treason. But knowing that there were ears all around, the two men decided to speak on it later. Concentrating on their hunt, the party only encountered some shaggy stray goats until just before dusk, at which point they heard something crashing through the underbrush just over a low rise. The party split up on Joubar's orders, with soldiers flanking out to either side to act as beaters and drive their fell prey towards Sir Bail and Joubar. The two men sat astride their horses in the bed of a small stream, intent to be the anvil for the rest of the party's hammer. The dusk quickly turned to gloaming as the men waited, the woods growing eerily still around them. Sirs Joubar and Bail begin to consider leaving when at least they heard a deep, bestial rumbling. The ground itself began to shake. The two men steeled themselves for the worst, only to be stunned in surprise as the biggest, shaggiest, one-eyed bull Bail had ever seen rounded the bend in the stream.

Sir Bail raised his eyebrows "That's a bullock!" he shouted. He and Joubar began laughing uproariously as they turned their mounts to make way for the lunbering monstrosity. Bail's mount jumped the muddy bank flanking the creekbed with ease, but Joubar's balked. Not slowing in the slightest in its flight from the beaters, the bull rammed and gored Joubar's panicked mount, spinning the horse around and tearing its guts out before speeding off. Joubar was able to roll from the stricken mount. Rising from the mud, he called for Bail's spear and put the grievously wounded horse down himself. Safe in the knowledge that the immediate danger had passed, both men were still chuckling when the other riders arrived asking if Joubar had killed the Aklash. The hunting party rode back to caer Kuseme empty-handed and short one horse. Turning back to politics before they parted ways, Bail asked Joubar not to throw himself on his sword for Marshal Kronas just yet.

Kavon and Enthor staked out the market again, looking for the woman they marked as a potential Tamora-fit. Enthor was able to tail her back to her tenement and remembered the location before returning home.

That night, Liakos, Bail, Kavon, and Kraebor, in his newly disguised alter-ego as the simpleton 'Tam', went to the Apple Inn. Uven arrived with Hallis of Karth in tow and made the introductions before excusing himself and heading to the bar. 'Tam' kept mostly silent, drinking his ale, while Kavon and Liakos spoke to Hallis. Hallis was very direct and not afraid to express a low opinion of the Lia Kavair and their activities. Playing both carrot and stick, Kavon expressed how proud they were of the teamsters' progress so far while Liakos took the tact of making it clear that the Lia Kavair were enemies Hallis didn't want. They told Hallis of what they had done so far in the teamsters' favor, talking to senators and clergy and convincing them of the merits of the teamsters' becoming guilded. Sensing that there was room for some quid pro quo, Hallis asked that they look into convincing the powers-that-be that the military take more responsbility for the riots.

And finally, as Hallis held the contract to haul charcoal to the mint, they were able to cajole him to agree to let 'Tam' onto his crew, selling a story that 'Tam' needed work until his brother got out gaol.

That night, Tamora finished up 5 batches of an inhibition-loosening drug that would render a target highly prone to suggestion yet leave him with little to no memory of the time during which the drug had been at full effect, perfect for interrogations. Given the horrendous, oily taste that the drug had, it was quickly dubbed Scatmouth by the boys, and was immediately slated to help in the interrogation of the Kerabin member still being held prisoner in the labryinth.

Fire/Fight

Kraebor, disguised as Tam, went to meet Hallis for his new job as a hauler of charcoal in the early morning hours of the 22nd. He was able to scout out the Mint, seeing that the doors were heavily guarded and the walls of the mint are at least 10 feet thick, with no windows at ground level. There were at least a company of bored-looking Red Guardsmen on duty and just as many craftsman and more laborers. He put in the gruelling physical labor, selling his simpleton act so well that a fellow teamster on the crew, Kramer, is endlessly amused that he can vicously insult Tam and still get no reaction. For perhaps the first time in his life, Kraebor puts in an honest day's work.

The 23rd of Ilvin was rainy with high winds and Kraebor put in more work dragging bags of charcoal into the Mint. He was going about his assigned task when one of the crucibles used to pour and purify silver suddently snapped one of its chains, swinging dangerously to-and-fro. The sparks and molten metal set fire to a few carelessly stacked bags of fuel and soon the entire south end of the Mint was engulfed in thick smoke. The bellows, more charcoal sacks and one or two craftsman were also set afire and all hell broke loose. Cries to 'Assume your positions' were heard immediately. Knowing that this was the distraction that Tazel had arranged, Kraebor took advantage of the cover of the smoke, chaos, and frantic rushing about to slip into the room where the master coin strikers were kept. Working mostly by feel as smoke filled to room, he deftly picked the lock on the cabinet indicated on Tazel's detailed map, memorized weeks before. Swapping the real striker for the fake, he then re-locked the cabinet and snuck back to his original spot in the storageroom. Resuming his affected slack-jawed disposition, 'Tam' was recruited to help put out the fire, taking in more than a few lungfuls of smoke in the process.

The fire was quickly brought under control, with the Mint officials immediately posting guards at all exits. Countsmen took careful stock of the measuring tables, cooling counter, and weighing tables and found that nothing was missing. With all of the Republic's precious bullion and specie accounted for, everyone was free to leave. With none the wiser, Kraebor went home with the goods, sooty but satisfied.

Meanwhile, Kavon and Enthor spent the day gambling at Ty's Alehouse, with Enthor and Rodrik acting as muscle while Kavon ran the games. A fight soon broke out between some Laranian and Agrikan pro-temps! Enthor and Rodrik tried to get the fight outdoors but it was slow going as other patrons begin to join the fight. Kavon watched the altercation from the bar, trying to avoid any injury to his tender person. Enthor got the drop on one of the un-affiliated patrons and knocked him out, while Rodrik choked out another. One of the Agrikans drew a blade but she was in turn stabbed by a Laranian before she could sink it into someone. Kavon saw that this fight was turning ugly in a hurry and decided to fetch the Guard by crawling out of a side window. Unfortunately an unaffiliated but very much combative patron decided he was up to no good and went after him.

Recalling his time spent in Golotha, Kavon successfully slipped out the window but the ruffian cut him off at the mouth of the alley. They duked it out while Kavon shouted for help. Inside, Enthor took an ale bowl to the head and went after the thrower, who crawled away under a table. The troublemaker made for the same window Kavon had gone through and Enthor ran around to cut him off. Kavon had just dispatched his opponent with a low blow when he saw someone tumble out of the window. He assumed this man was going to take him for easy prey as well so Kavon threw a pre-emptive kick. The troublemaker rolled with the punch but Enthor, now entering the fray, brought him low. Kavon delivered a brutal kick while his opponent was down. The troublemaker staggered away, Enthor giving him another parting boot in the rear before the two thieves dusted themselves off and returned to the bar.

The fight was over and it took the Guard nearly half a bell to show up and ask about the disturbance. Having made themselves scarce in the interim, none of the Agrikan or Laranian toughs remained about to answer the Guards' questions. Still, nothing of import was broken and no one had died, so the night was ruled a success!

Rings of Fire

The 29th of Ilvin dawned cool, clear and breezy. Kezner was relieved to see Sir Bail at breakfast that morning, as he had heard some disturbing rumors at a guild meeting the previous night. It was confirmed that Homlis had been stripped of his journeyman status. However, he had also learned that Homlis had been gone for two days already, and was rumored to have set out for Shiran. Sir Bail didn't like the sound of that, knowing Naia was with Kavon's aunt Rylas in Shiran, and so he decided to depart to be sure his betrothed would be safe. Kavon gave him all the information he had for Lia Kavair contacts in Shiran and Bail swore to make sure Rylas would be safe.

GMs Note: Sir Bail's player has had to take some time off from the campaign to deal with real life issues and work commitments. This provided a way for us to write him out of the campaign temporarily until his life calms down a bit and he can rejoin this madness.

Tamora spent the day making more drugs, cranking out 11 doses of Nightshade and giving them to Kavon to bring to Shemlen at Aranoal's Inn.

The next day, Kavon delivered the doses to a rather impatient Shemlen, who indicated that this level of supply was good for now, and that the Nightshade was working out very well. Kavon was glad to hear this news, and left her be while he and Enthor continued on to the Pamesani for the games.

The main event tonight was a ring of fire, which intrigued Kavon and Enthor. As such, they went to speak to Molis about the event. He rattled off a list of participants that essentially made the ring of fire tournament out to be a Who's Who of gladiators. 16 fighters, most sponsored by senators and other politicians, would take part. Such a display was bound to be expensive, as the rules stated that leaving the ring was an elimination. Thus, all of the contestants would be expected to fight until they were dead or victorious, though they could of course be thrown out.

Also appearing in the day's games for the first time was the slave that Kavon brokered to the arena for Thantar, renamed 'Lothar Half Pound.' A minor match, he fought early in the day, killing his opponent with his first blow and making the crowd boo as he lazily walked off the sand. Kavon and Enthor weren't surprised but glad that the man was at least fighting. They watched the other fights with some interest, waiting for the ring of fire to start. During an interlude between matches they witnessed a mason stripped of his guild credentials and executed by stoning, with audience participation costing only 1 penny per stone.

The main event, the ring of fire started and Kavon decided to place a bet on Black Seleene, who appeared to be glad to be there. Oddly, there was another woman fighting that day, a near seven foot tall blonde Ivinian shield maiden fighting with handaxes and a shield. Enthor put a small bet on her, impressed by her physicality and stature. The Ivinian started very well, throwing a hand axe into another fighters knee. That fighter was summarily speared in his other leg by yet another combatant and spent the match crawling through the ring of fire to freedom, though certainly not towards good health. Ultimately, the shield maiden managed to dispatch three opponents herself.

Black Seleene found herself facing a man with a net and though she got entangled at first in the hooked net, she cut her way free to continue fighting. The Ivinian was eventually forced out of the ring by two opponents fighting her in tandem, one in front and one behind, one going low and one going high, and she had to roll over one and through the fire, losing a long blonde braid in the process.

The man who pushed the Ivinian out, Magor the Bloody, summarily killed his impromptu teammate before running over towards Black Seleene and her opponent, the last two remaining fighters. He finished off the net man first, pushing his corpse onto Black Seleene and finishing her off to win the tournament. As the temple slaves and acolytes cleaned up the mess and the cheering crownds thinned and departed, the night became freezing and overcast, and a gentle snow began to fall.

Kavon and Enthor left after picking up their winnings, as betting on a fighter that placed in the top 8 paid out at least something. They then split up so Enthor could go to the Kotros Lia Kavair meeting. Synainova was still upset that she was a crew chief but she paid up to Vudrin anyways. Maltus was still hot to get rid of his island and asked Enthor to needle Liakos about it. Synainova griped about her unruly crew and asked Vudrin how to handle it. He gave her carte blanche, her crew, her rules. Talkin was not doing well according to Mirisna, and was unlikely to see the new year. Vudrin warned the crew to tread lightly around the Quilon Gate and Kobar Bridge, as the Guards were getting uppity and Javros of Aeb, the aide to the gate's commandant, had been asking for more money. With business at a close, Enthor accompanied Vudrin to the main guild meeting in western Coranan.

At the meeting of the Lia Kavair in the Apple Inn, Argon had a new man with him who was staring daggers at Enthor, a fact to which Enthor was completely oblivious but which did not escape Kavon's careful notice.

The Coranan Legion's raid into Kerabin was brought up, and though some people felt it should've been handled internally it was put forth clearly and succinctly by Liakos that Maldros of Kolgar was not in the brotherhood anymore. The one person who was arrested in the raid was, curiously, still being held by the Coranan Legion at the fort at Verus and the Red Guard was apparently making noise about it. Even more curious was the fact that no one seemed to know who the prisoner was.

After the meeting proper the man who had been eye-balling Enthor left, so Kavon approached Argon and inquired about him. The man was Hamish of Muldin, and Enthor had killed his brother Guzik. Nevermind that Guzik, Argon, and two other men had been trying to find and kill Enthor at the time. Argon reckoned that it was not a problem now but it might be later. Argon also indicated that he wanted to speak to Maltus tomorrow. Parting ways with the new head of the Kuseme chapter, Kavon relayed all of this information to an otherwise oblivious Enthor.

After the meeting, Enthor intended to make his way directly to the Glaive and Sickle, but heard steel on steel on the way there. He decided to investigate and found nearly 20 armed participants, swords drawn, fighting in the street. Not a one of them was Red Guard. It appeared to be more Agrikan and Laranian violence. Enthor decided to watch, but eventually noticed out of the corner of his eye a shadow move on a 3rd story balcony. He peered at the dark figure. Perhaps sensing that it was being watched, the shadow looked over at him, revealing a skull mask worn under a hood. Enthor blanched and watched disbelieving as the figure moved effortlessly up and over the roof of the building. The big mugger then turned on his heel and walked in the opposite direction, making a long detour to go drink heavily at the Glaive and Sickle.

Enthor eventually heard running footsteps approaching him as he headed down a different street. He turned and saw 3 Laranians charging down the street, one of them shouted 'There's one!' Finding discretion the better part of valor and pretty much the only part of survival, Enthor decided to run for it instead of fighting three armed, armored men. They eventually left him alone, ducking into the Laranian temple and leaving Enthor to run along on his way. He finally made his way unmolested to the Glave & Sickle. While he would ordinarily have been itching for a good bar brawl, Enthor decided that tonight he would simply drink his problems away.

Meanwhile, Kavon spoke to Tamora at the guildhouse about getting faked physician credentials for 'Keladry,' floating the idea that perhaps she could find work with someone who owned gladiators. He thought that given a sample to work from, he and Kraebor could probably forge something for her that would pass casual scrutiny. She agreed, and further plots were hatched between them.

Brandywine

The 1st through the 5th of Navek saw bad weather arrive with windstorms, thunderstorms, and snow falling over Coranan in quick succession. During that time there was an unconfirmed sighting of Maldros of Kolgar on the 3rd but it was unsubstantiated, forcing the crew to disregard it.

The local rumor mill indicated that there was also an entertaining argument in the Senate over the future of the Kuseme cohort. Bowing to political reality, Joubar of Holsine had stepped down, and in a staggering power-grab several members of the Senate tried to pass a law giving the Senate the ability to make the commander's appointment directly, thus completely circumventing the Marshal. The measure was roundly criticized by Senators Ryburn of Elernin and Xeldon of Pesed (himself a provincial Marshal) and eventually killed by the tacit disapproval of the more moderate members. The Senate was also entertaining a Laranian delegation to explore the possibility of forming a fighting order with the express intent of pacifying the shores of Lake Benath for settlement.

Meanwhile, Kavon finished the fake striker on the 4th, and talk turned to how to secure Senator Brenyl of Kardan's support for recognition of the teamsters. Liakos, Kraebor, and Kavon agreed that a frame-job was in order, something that would make the Pilot's Guild look complicit in the barge colliding with one of the piers of the Kobar bridge. Eventually it was decided that they needed the word of a group of 'trustworthy' workers who could testify that they were aware of a 'plot.' They brought in Uven of Gelt and asked for his recommendation of 4 men who were believable enough to sell the story. Uven considered the matter and offered up some names. The next day, Kavon met the men and prepped them on the story that they would be spinning to the authorities. He was favorably impressed with their cleverness and made sure that the details of their story matched.

The morning of the 6th had more snow coming down as Liakos and Kavon visited Brenyl of Kardan at his manse to speak about the barge incident. They saw him after only an hour of waiting and were ushered into his office so they could make their 'report'. They relayed to him the story that they had concocted: they knew four dockworkers who were told to load ballast stone onto a barge in Telen, and that that same barge had been the one to strike the bridge. The dockworkers were glad to testify to those facts as well and they're nearby, being babysat by Kraebor. Brenyl asked them to fetch the 'dockworkers' immediately, prompting Kavon to head out to the inn. The Senator, his aide, Kavon, and the 'dockworkers' left for the Palace of Red Domes while Liakos returned to the guildhouse with Kraebor.

The Senate session was brought to order and Kavon and the dockworkers took their seats in the gallery until Brenyl was able to bring the issue to the floor. He wove a tale of conspiracy by the Pilots Guild to damage the Kobar bridge prior to the arrival of the fall caravans, in order to undermine the teamsters and force goods to be barged across, lining their pockets - all the while claiming that if boats of a smaller size required a Pilot that such accidents could be avoided. The teamsters were brought forward and questioned, and one of them sold his story with particular panache. He testified that, "I thought it kinda queer, and when I asked the deckhand where all that ballast stone were headed, he said it didn't matter on account of it was never going to get to its final destination anyhow." Kavon smiled inwardly at the man's wit as a murmur of outrage swept through the chamber. He noticed however that one senator, Faranor of Ulter, summoned a page and scrawled a short message that was carried out post-haste. Kavon had spoken to Faranor's nephew, Wilom, at Kelen's soiree and knew the man was involved with the Telen bridge project. After lengthy discussion and questioning of the 'witnesses,' the arguments appeared to be going Brenyl's way. Prior to any conclusion, however, the issue was tabled so that some Senators could further 'investigate' the issue on their own. As a result, the teamster 'dockworkers' were housed at the Scroll & Quill on the Senate's dime. Kavon agreed to deliver messages to their wives and families of their location.

Upon Kavon's return to the guildhouse, the ramifications of the early success of their plan were discussed. Ultimately, the crew decided to slay the teamster 'witnesses!' They reasoned it would look like a political assassination and make the Pilots' Guild look even worse. They decided to poison the four men and crafted a backup plan; The person who would deliver the poisoned wine would be Tamora, looking like her old self.

Freezing rain fell onto the snow that night while Kraebor went to the Scroll & Quill. Kraebor explained to Goris, the innkeep, that he was planning to entertain a woman in a private room and would like some good food and wine to complete his 'seduction'. Goris bent his considerable talent to making sure that Kraebor had a private room and nothing but the finest fare available to the inn that night.

Tamora eventually arrived at the inn with the tastelesss, slow-acting poison ready to go. Goris greeted her at the door and escorted her upstairs, reiterating how he was more than happy to fulfill any desires she and Kraebor might have. He left her with Kraebor and they enjoyed the jellied quail and saffron potatoes while Kraebor fretted about the cost. It was time for work, however, and they poisoned a bottle of brandy and disguised Tamora to look like her old self, darkening her hair and complexion to its natural swarthiness. She went just two doors down the hall and presented the teamsters with the brandy, compliments of 'the Senator.' She recommended they drink every drop and returned back to Kraebor's room to remove her disguise. The poisoner and the thief finished off their lovely meal and retired for the night.

The 7th of Navek was breezy and snowing. Kavon returned to Brenyl's manse and inquired of the aide if he was needed for anything, but they bid him to return later. Kraebor had Tamora head back to the guildhouse with her disguise kit very early in the morning before returning to bed. Some few hours after Tamora's departure, Kraebor heard a scream from down the hall, rousing him from bed! Kraebor poked his head out into the hall and it became apparent that someone had died! What a shock! An officer of the Kom Legion was staying at the Inn and he quickly cleared the hall, demanding an embalmer and an apothecary be summoned. Goris' guards came up, then the Red Guard, then more city functionaries. Solina of Abarl arrived and Kraebor decided to chat her up in the dining room after she had done her work examining the corpses upstairs. She was saddened by the dark times Coranan had seen of late but let on that it may've been the work of one Tamora of Logue. She'd have laid the blame on Jond of Karin if he hadn't already been executed so it must have been Tamora. Kraebor put up a good show of expressing concern about Tamora apparently having returned to the city.

After being questioned and ultimately released from the inn, Kraebor went to Kezner's shop and spread the story of the grisly murders to every customer that came into the chandlery. The gossip spread through half the city by the afternoon, and in one version of the telling that made its circuitous way back to Kraebor, the four men were spies of Senator Demosa of Aquil. A factor arrived and told Kezner that Senator Kardan wanted an audience and wanted whoever killed the teamsters found and 'dealt with'. Kraebor walked to the guildhouse and informed everyone else of what had happened. Kavon left to talk with an ecstatic Brenyl who was very pleased with how things had turned out, though he was appropriately saddened by the deaths of the men. Once news of the killings had made its way to the Senate floor, the Pilots' Guild's petition to change the law from 30 feet to 16 feet was squashed immediately. Senator Kardan assured Kavon that the teamsters' sacrifices would be honored, of course, and compensation made to thir families. He also reiterated that he wanted the killer or killers identified. Brenyl and Kavon hashed out a price for these services and Kavon returned home.

Kraebor was at the temple on the night of the 7th, drowning the guilt of his cold-blooded killing in mulled wine and a hot bath when Demosa of Aquil arrived. Kraebor raised the idea of commissioning a painting for the Senator in his new robes of office (as Senator Aquil had only recently been confirmed as Treasurer of the Republic), and the Senator expressed some surprise that Kraebor had an idea of what was going on with that position. Still, he was intrigued and bid Kraebor to call upon him at his Coranan home in three days' time. In the meantime, he treated Kraebor to an extremely complicated but tasty dessert while he took his bath.

More freezing rain and snow had fallen when everyone woke up on the 8th. Uven arrived at the guildhouse at the behest of Liakos, who feigned regret at the fate of the four men Uven had given over into his care. Liakos assured Uven that the full might of the Lia Kavair was sure to com crashing down on whomever had crossed them and killed Uven's teamster brethren. Buying the act hook, line, and sinker, Uven was swept away by Liakos' apologies and concern. If only he knew.

Man, these guys are bastards!

I'm half-hoping to see this all catch up with them someday...

Heh, so are they. All of the players are pretty much of the same opinion that when things finally go pear-shaped, it will all end in fire. They have actually given some thought to how this campaign should be concluded, and are in almost universal agreement that all of their characters should meet grisly, well-deserved demises.

They certainly deserve it. It makes one ponder phrases like "killin's to good for 'em".

I'm sure their next characters will be a group of honorable, faithful, selfless paladins. You know, as a change of pace...

Actually, they have kicked around the idea of a viking/exploration campaign. Inspired by Apocalypse Now they already refer to it as the "Never get out of the longboat" campaign. I figured that I'd run them through Alun's "Hearts of Darkness" adventure as an intro, as it is appropriate on SOOOO many levels.

But for right now, they're having too much fun scheming and murdering their way to the top.

So, robbing and murdering from a longboat instead of the city streets. I guess that's a change of pace.

Yeah, maybe the apple's not falling far from the tree there. We play the Lia Kavair game every other week, and on the alternating week the guy who plays Kavon runs a 7th Sea game. Kraebor's player, (who is also in the 7th Sea game) mentioned recently that he was having a bit of a "white hat" jones, and was looking to turn his character in the 7th Sea game into a crusading force for justice and good in order to give himself some cognitive juxtaposition from his Harn character.

And because I am once again slightly behind, I give you...

Mugging and Drinking

Enthor decided to look for a suitable Tamora-doppelganger on the morning of the 8th by heading out to Kuseme and it's outlying area. He looked around for a while before getting the feeling that he was being tailed. He played it cool, heading out to Omagil and making a circuit on the west side of town before coming back to the Ordh house. But having come up with nothing, the group at large decided that it might be best of Tamora left town for a bit. This dovetailed well with her plans, as she wanted to make a trip into the wilderness to collect some rare herbs.

GM's Note: Tamora's player is a grad student in Ancient Near Eastern Studies. She is the only person I know who is scripturally fluent in Sumerian and Akkadian. In any event, she got a wonderful opportunity to work at the British Museum this summer, then do a year of study abroad, all more or less funded on various grants. The summer museum gig was regular working hours, so she was unavailable for Skype (as we're a 4-hour time difference from London), but the upcoming study abroad gives her a lot more flexibility of schedule. We're looking forward to her being able to Skype in and re-join the game.

As an aside, technology is awesome. Liakos' player moved from Michigan to Tennessee almost a year ago, but he is regularly able to participate in sessions in real time thanks to the internet. We miss him at the post-game outings to Denny's though. End of aside.

Kavon was at the guildhouse working with the smith to make 'new' coin using the stolen striker. He took a break at lunchtime to visit Thantar at the bridge and talk business. Thantar had money problems with Senator Turin of Markaz and asked Kavon to purchase and then lease back another slave. He mentioned that Turin helped him purchase the franchise for his slavery business. Now Turin wanted to cash out and was pressuring Thantar to pay up. Kavon offered to help Thantar pay off the four pound debt, one way or another.

Kavon immediately left for the Halean temple to talk to Althea the Silken and the Ralithina about Thantar's predicament. The priestesses asked about Kavon's past business deals with Thantar and then offered to consider purchasing Thantar's debt from Turin. They would let him know by the 14th at the latest. After the meeting Althea mentionewd to Kavon that she was a little put out that Bail didn't tell her of his nuptials. She also asked Kavon to send her regards to Kraebor.

That night was foggy and calm, snow still on the ground. Enthor went out hunting for mugging victims and had to wait for several hours in the cold and dark before he heard boots crunching on the snow. He thought he could hear chainmail clinking with the confident stride of his target but decided to go for it anyway. He jumped out and clocked the man upside the head with his sap, denting the man's helmet under the hood of his cloak. Rifling the unconscious body, he found 21d in the man's purse. He also absconded with his helmet, chainmail, and sword as well. Enthor made a circuitous route back home and discovered a small leather pouch inside the victim's purse with a lock of red hair held within.

GM's Note: We had an honored guest at this session - none other than Harn Forum's own Joe Adams, who has relocated to our neck of the woods! As Enthor's player was going through the victim's purse, I turned to Joe and asked, "what does he find?" Joe did not disappoint, and this extra little detail (the lock of hair) has turned the course of the campaign (as we shall see later).

Enthor dropped off the armor at the guildhouse where Kavon was counterfeiting coin with the smith. They talked about the armor and Kavon remembered that they were owed a suit of kurbul armor from the tanner. Enthor decided he needed to be public and he left for the Glaive & Sickle. Upon entering the establishment, he noticed that the nearly seven foot tall shield maiden who had fought in the recent "Ring of Fire" gladiatorial spectacle was in attendance that night. Enthor bought her a fire ale and mentioned it was an honor to watch her fight. She appreciated the gesture but opined that she was quite done with fire for the time being. The normally rough bar was disappointingly quiet that night, with only some minor pushing and shoving and no real barfight. But after some time a bedraggled man stumbled into the bar, clutching his head. He had been mugged!

GM's Note: I figured that since he was already there, Joe might enjoy playing a guest NPC role. Pretty much all of the following personal story that came out about this NPC over the course of the remainder of the session was extemporaneous improvisation on Joe's part, which was awesome. I totally put him on the spot and he rolled with it like a pro, creating an interesting character more or less on the fly. It was great!

The man, clearly from Kanday, came and sat at an empty spot at the table that Enthor shared with a gladiator. The bartender asked the newcomer what he was drinking but the man admitted he had no money. The gladiator sprung for a bowl of fire ale and Enthor sprang for food, an unusual gesture in this establishment not known for its friendliness to strangers. The man thanked his benefactors as he noticed he was in a fairly rough joint, what with the stack of weapons at the door. He introduced himself as Henrik of Taldry.

The gladiator asked what happened and the man related the story of how he had been mugged. He was glad that he kept his life but was sad to say he lost a token given to him by a woman he was looking for. They were betrothed in their youth but work took him away and her family had moved to Coranan for business. The gladiator quipped that he too had came to Coranan for business but with a collar around his neck. He hoped to one day buy his freedom and return to Kanday himself.

The gladiator asked for news of Kanday and the stranger mentioned the Crimson Hook getting uppity and pirates along the lower Thard getting worse. The gladiator spat at the mention of Agrikans, though the stranger noticed three acolytes of the order of the Demon Pemeshlu the Insatiable sitting on a few cushions nearby. They seemed unsurprised, unaware, or unconcerned with the gladiator's outburst. The gladiator and Enthor turned the conversation back towards Henrik's bethrothed, inquiring what her name was, with Enthor offering that he might know her or her clan and be able to aid in the quest. The man named her as Karin of Faelin, and while Enthor had never heard of her, the man mentioned that her family owned a barge and moved cargo up and down the river. Enthor mentioned that the Pilots' Guild measure had only recently been struck down, which should make the woman, or her father at least, happy.

A few unkind words were thrown about by some of the other patrons concerning 'true love' and the virtue of good Karin of Faelin, and the gladiator at the table decided to defend her honor in an impromptu wrestling match. The gladiator defending her lost, choked out by his opponent, and was subsequently dragged from the establishment by the bouncers.

Shortly thereafter, Amalreth the minstrel arrived and sat at the table. Enthor made Amalreth aware that Henrik was searching for his true love. Amalreth was only too happy to sing about "The Trials of Sir Bail" and he did so immediately. Amalreth was eager to hear the traveller's story but Henrik demurred, noting that he would have to find his true love before he was worthy of a song in his name. Enthor asked Amalreth about Manzenar the True, wondering if the minstrel had heard of him. Amalreth had, and asserted that Manzenar was said to be a man of his word, hence the sobriquet. There was a tale of Manzenar being caught and hanged by the Coranan Legion but clearly that was false.

Amalreth asked the Henrik about his profession, noting his soldierly bearing, but the man admitted that while warfare may have been a passion in his youth it was not any longer. As conversation wandered, the minstrel told the newcomer about wonders of Aleath and proclaimed that he must go there once he found his true love for a magical wedding ceremony. The newcomer mentioned that he was staying at the Hook & Capstain and Amalreth mentioned that Sir Bail's man-servant, Navok, might be able to assist him while he was in Coranan.

Enthor decided to take his leave but instead of heading home he went to the Hook & Capstain. He nodded to Aker of Mormaren, the barkeep, and then found the innkeep. He took her aside and asked her to work out something for one of her guests, one Henrik of Taldry, and mentioned that Enthor and Kavon would make it worth her while. Even Enthor's low animal cunning recognized an opportunity for a further con on his poor mugging victim.

Enthor found Kavon at the guildhouse and told him about Henrik and asked the con-man to think of what he could do. They returned home to the Ordh house, glad to be out of the cold for the time being.

GM's Note: as if it wasn't cool enough to have Joe drop in for a guest NPC spot, he had enough fun at the game that he decided to join up! I thought, "OK, cool, we'll come up with some new character concept to work into the game and go from there." But Joe had so much fun playing Henrik and coming up with a suitably mysterious (and decidedly shady) back-story that he decided to keep playing the character! So our one-off, random encounter mugging victim has now become a full-fledged PC. When we were chatting after the session and he told me the background concept he had concocted for Henrik - a devout Laranian soldier/spy with an unfortunate compulsion (he's essentially a serial killer) - I knew we had a winner. Working him into the campaign has been a blast and we're glad to have him.

Welcome aboard, Joe!

I have once again been lax about posting logs. I will endeavor to catch up. For tonight I give you:

Canvassing the Neighborhood
The morning of the 9th of Navek was cool and breezy with threatening clouds that haven't yet begun broken into rain. Enthor and Kavon spent the day looking for a Tamora look alike. They split up to cover more ground, but eventually they spied each other after an hour or two, realizing they'b been following the same woman! Kavon gave Enthor the thumbs up and broke away, tailing Enthor who had begun tailing the woman.

She eventually went north of the caer and Enthor spied one of Falorin's crew, a thief Jamys. He decided to talk with the man and Kavon quickly joined them. Jamys didn't know who the woman was and was surprised that Enthor likes to 'take it' by force. Enthor and Kavon assured him it's business but not that kind of business. Jamys asked if she was Mirisna's "missing girl," causing Enthor to inquire. Apparently, one of the girls disappeared one night and didn't use the front door. Curious!

Walking and talking with Jamys, Enthor and Kavon hatched a plan by which Kavon would approach the fishmonger that their look-alike target had patronized, hoping to glean further clues as to her identity. Kavon breathily asked the fishmonger who the lovely vision was that bought some fish from his stall. He pretended to be love struck with the girl, much to the bewilderment of the fishmonger. But in the end he got a name. Her name was Daxi, she always payed in silver and eggs and always bought the biggest trout he had for sale. Enthor didn't know who she was but Jamys did. She's Daxy Stellen, according to him, and she worked at the buttery at the Palace of Pentacles. He didn't know if she had any local family but the Stellen clan was from Kuseme.

Dalid of Kolfax approached the boys after they left Jamys to his work. He asked what the boys were up to and they mentioned that they're heading to Mirisna's. Dalid complained about his wife not liking him 'investigating' at Mirisna's and gave the boys a friendly chat about staying out of trouble.

As it turned out, Sofi was the missing girl. The ex-courtesan had been Kraebor's witness in the regicide debacle. Nothing much was missing from her room except the sketch Kraebor did of her. One of the prostitutes mentioned that Sofi had given it to one of her regulars, Eradah of Exenion, a local metalsmith. He had visited a week or so ago and Sofi gave him the picture as a way to strengthen their "business relationship."

Synainova soon arrived and wasn't surprised to find Enthor and Kavon involved. Kavon made a crack about Enthor being Mirisna's newest employee. They decided to head out and pay Eradah a visit. They asked to speak with him privately at his shop and then joined him in his office. The door was barely closed before Synainova was slamming his face into his desk, much to Kavon and Enthors shock. But taking advantage of the situation, Kavon began talking to him. Waste not, want not!

Heavy guy, blonde hair, little cross eyed, blue eyes, tall - that's the description that Eradah gives of the other regular Sofi has. Searching his memory for large, blue-eyed men with a lazy eye, Kavon suddenly shuddered. One of the Morgathian priests he saw when he and Liakos went to their temple could fit that description! They thanked Eradah for his assistance, Kavon promised to make him a hero to Sofi when this was over, and they left, Synainova giving him a parting kick in the balls for good measure. They departed for the guildhouse to inform Liakos of what was going on.

Meanwhile, Kraebor decided to visit Vudrin to see if there was any work his apprentices could be used for to get them some hands-on experience. He found Vudrin cooking up some stew and decided to break bread with the new Kotros Guildmaster. They talked about work and Vudrin mentioned that Maltus may have some work Kraebor could help with. Vudrin also expressed some concerns about Argon the Shifty getting close with Liakos, but Kraebor believed that Liakos would swiftly deal with any potential danger.

Leaving Vudrin to his delectable stew, Kraebor found Maltus at the Scroll & Quill talking with another man. Kraebor decided he should pay off his debt to Goris before getting involved with Maltus. He gave Maltus a look and didn't want to interfere but Maltus soon exclaimed, "Ah, one of my satisfied customers now!" Kraebor forced a smile and greeted Maltus without using his name, asking him how "business" was. Maltus greeted Kraebor as Tam and asked him to explain to the other man seated at the table how well the "performance elixir" had worked. Kraebor swallowed his pride and mentioned that, so long as his wife didn't discover his secret, it was the best! Maltus went into a brief survey of "Tam's" experiences with the "exilir" and then reinforced his claims with plausible sounding medical gobbledy-gook.

Kraebor managed to extricate himself and meet up with Goris out of earshot of Maltus' mark. Goris inquired about the success of his rendezvous and Kraebor hemmed and hawwed, explaining that his last rendezvous didn't go so well. Goris was happy to give him free advice on romance and wooing women. Kraebor took Goris' advice under consideration and shared Vudrin's boar stew recipe with the attentive innkeep. He'd keep an eye out for fresh boar meat from Kezner. Goris mentioned that he would like to purchase scented oils from Kezner, if he had any stock, as the Haleans levy a heavy price. Ever the name-dropper, he mentioned that Ezarn of Halan was staying at the Inn and had a visitor who "appreciates" scented oils and such.

Promising Goris that he'd keep an eye out, Kraebor left and Maltus eventually met up with him, commending Kraebor for selling his cover by paying Goris after talking with the mark. He tossed a few silver Kraebor's way for the supporting performance and they spoke about business for Kraebor's apprentices. Maltus needed a lady's favor planted in the bedroom of the owner of the Salt Bag in Kuseme. Maltus gave him the details but told him not to tell Argon under any circumstances. Kraebor questioned that, hoping Maltus wasn't trying to cut Argon out, but Maltus assured him it'd work out for the best and that even if the apprentices blew it, it wouldn't kill the con.

Back at the guildhouse, Enthor, Synainova, and Kavon arrived and talked to Liakos, getting him away from training apprentices. Kavon explained that the man Eradah described was a Morgathian priest and perhaps they should speak to his sect. Liakos promised to see what he could do. Enthor left to beat up apprentices while Synainova and Kavon stayed behind. Synainova mentioned that she didn't like running a crew and hates having idiots following her around. Liakos mentioned that following someone around is work he has for her and mentioned her guarding Kavon when he travels to Shiran and then Stimos. She seemed happy to do that, as getting paranoid would restore her edge. Liakos promised to clear it with Vudrin. Liakos left Kavon to explain the particulars of the trip while he got back to teaching.

Liakos found Enthor teaching the apprentices how to attack when someone is mid-stride. He's a good teacher, but a rough teacher. Liakos approved. They have dinner and Kavon thinks to ask Kraebor if he could go to Shiran with him to carry the cash or notes back to Coranan. He found him at the Ordh house and Kraebor mentioned an invitation from Debryne of Tilry, Salara of the Halean temple of Shiran, and that he'd be happy to head to Shiran and accomplish two tasks at once.

The 10th dawns cool, overcast and showery. Kraebor left to get a headstart on waiting to speak to Demosa of Aquil. Hallis of Karth was waiting as well but he didn't notice Kraebor, nee Tam, also waiting to be seen. He wa speaking with a functionary about a tax structure, a good sign that the teamsters guild has gained a lot of traction. Kraebor waited for hours but eventually he was shown in. Demosa was happy to don his new robes so Kraebor could begin sketching. He continued to conduct business while Kraebor sketched. Kraebor is quiet, but not deaf.

Someone was complaining that the tax revenues from Gerium weren't enough and someone is probably skimming, probably Borisir, Kraebor's 'paramour'. The Marshall of the Gerium legion wanted another fort along the river to keep Rethemi Agrikans out. A senator was pushing hard to get funding for a bridge in Telen to help it grow. Demosa opined that it was the Nordakas and not Telen that wanted to grow.

Kraebor had a few sketches done by the end of the day and Demosa selected one as his favorite. Kraebor mentioned a coming trip to Shiran, warning his patron that it might be a couple weeks before he could do the actual work. Demosa wondered if Kraebor would be available in Shiran very long, as the Senator had planned to make a trip to that city himself in the near future. Kraebor left things open and begged off, keeping the memory of Demosa's chain of office, a 3 pound monstrosity of gold, fresh in his mind.