Aware that Saliq would always get more respect then himself from the others, Ben isn't surprised that the Eagle chooses to listen more closely to the illusionist's word, only a little frustrated.

That said, it seemed Saliq was of a like mind, or at least open to Ben's concerns.

As such he continued, this time trying to bring into focus why the little thief believes the swamp-lord to be a threat to the things which the Eagle deems important.

But first, "Yes Rath, I do feel a certain antipathy to the swamp-lord, but his name has grown in power in the city, and I deem it unwise to use his name out loud. No one gets power without having ears open all over the place, especially places like this one."

Another sip is taken, the he turned his attention to the Eagle.

"Look, I understand why what he-who-should-not-be-named does to the city isn't at the top of your priority list, but his dirty little fingers were deep in the events with the lizard men and the life of the creatures in the swamp. I also suspect the horned-one might be some how connected."

Lowering his voice even further, he leaned in.

"I'm not saying we take any direct action. Yet. But I want to look into things; this wouldn't be the first time power hungry people have dealt with the power below to increase their position, and if that's the case, all the lands around here might suffer."

Leaning back, he takes another mouthful of ale, finishing off the mug. Swirling it around in his mouth first, he swallows with relish, the put the glass down open-end down to show he did not need a refill.

"Look, all I'm asking is that we investigate a bit..."

Previously...

Ben follows Lord Myron's carriage through the crowded streets of Stormhaven, which eventually makes its way through Oldhaven to the large gate leading into Guildkeep. Once there, the carriage pulls through a narrow lane leading to the entrance of the Mercenaries' Guild Headquarters, which itself lies in the shadow of Talas Manor.

Here, the carriage is met by a company of armed mercenaries standing nervous watch along the stone wall which surrounds the Guild Complex. Ben watches from behind a nearby building as Lord Myron is greeted by what looks to be a Sergeant and then quickly ushered in through the gate, before it closes with a thunderous boom.

Meanwhile...

Eagle inquires about recent tidings from his fellow Circle Members and learns that the Gardens of Godswalk Park are doing well and the Cultists of Ga have not attempted to gain re-entry to their former lair, which itself is located beneath the large park. There was recently a problem with a small group of quasi-sentient woody shrubs which took root in the park's southeast woods. These evil creatures were not allowed to gain a foothold however, for the druids quickly eradicated their numbers, but the druids on not resting on their laurels and have assigned sentinels to stand watch over the area where they were first discovered. It has been several weeks since the last creature was spotted, so there is hope that these creatures have truly, and permanently, been eradicated.

Also of note is the disturbing appearance of several exsanguinated bodies that have recently turned up in the Park, in addition to numerous others that have been found throughout the city, most of which have been found in the Council Halls district. Most of these bodies have been city bureaucrats, though others have met this same fate. To date, none has seen what manner of beast is responsible for these murders, but of course rumors are rampant: the woody shrubs have returned and lie hidden beneath the ground, only emerging at night is the most popular theory. A nest of stirges might also be the culprit, perhaps making their lair within an abandoned, and rumored to be haunted tower known as Blackstone Spire, located in the northwest corner of Oldhaven. Finally, some believe this must surely be the work of a Coven of Vampires!

Nobody knows for certain, but what is known is that the bodies keep turning up.

"I think Ben raises a good point," Saliq said. "My friend, in a lot of ways you do probably know this city better than any of us. Do you think we should try and infiltrate Talas Manor, or perhaps the Mercenaries Guild?"

The illusionist is also intrigued by what Eagle has to say and glances at the druid.

Rath's ears perk up. Despite Ben's opinion, he's listening equally to him and to Saliq. Not sure he likes what he's hearing, but he's listening. Slaying Vrocks and Glabrezu demons is one thing. Thoughts of inflitrating a high-society event -- probably a dance or fancy dinner or something -- makes rocks of dread drop in Rath's gut. He swallows hard and tries to pay attention to the conversation.

In reply to Aldo Rathmus (msg # 12):

Eagle listens intently to Ben, but seems confused. 'Does it matter to any of us which family calls itself the rulers of stormhaven?,' he asks. 'Like you Ben, I grew up here, but I've never met this Thandywasshisnameagain, nor do I owe him any loyalty. Same for the Talos's. And what exactly did this swamp lord do at the ziggurat anyway?

'Still with our new found celebrity, perhaps it would be fun to lord it up with the lords. Just make no promises to none of them - a curse on all their houses was what my mum used to say.'

In the last few months the druid has grown in power, and presence, but for a moment he has returned to be the Stormhaven urchin who found solace in the park that not so long ago was who he was.

Inas brushed some crumbs of his finely-crafted new armour. He looked over at Rath who seemed equally uncomfortable with the discussion. "I'm not one for hobnobbing with my betters. Give me a sword and a bow over a goblet of fine wine and chitchat about the latest fashions anytime."

Still, he had to admit that after recent events he could do with some downtime to recuperate further. However, the idea of a social event with lords and ladies twisted up his stomach.
This message was last edited by the player at 07:55, Mon 23 Feb 2015.

"Rath, you've been to the mercenary guild, you hired Monvo and Bruno there, if I remember correctly. Is that a place we could get into without causing alarm? Report the loss to their rolls, act like we are looking for replacements."

Turning towards the Eagle, Ben continues, "It's your choice, of course, but I recommend you talk to your friends in GodsHome park about their feeling on this issue. These odd evil plants that attempted to invade their groves appear to be tied in with the draining of the cities bureaucrats. I'll bet each of you an opal that these officials removal eased the way of the swamp-lord into power. That alone should bring your keen nose to the hunt."

Finally he turns to Saliq. "As to uninvited visit to the House in question, I would like to do some research first, see how the family is situated, see how much insurance they have, and even if Swamp-Lord is staying there. One has to imagine some inner family turmoil, if so, it could work to our advantage."

As the food arrives, he tears a hunk of greasy chicken breast in his hand and begins to masticate in public, the juices running down his face. Any who give thought might see Ben imagining the chicken as the heart of Lord Myron. They would not be wrong.

Saliq nodded slowly. "In that case I will investigate our current rulers the Thyrandas Family."

Realising the warrior types in the party were less than keen on politicing he said: "As Ben said, how about the Mercenaries Guild? I don't think I would fit in there, nor would Ben, nor would Eagle. We need someone who knows how to swing a sword there."

In reply to Saliq Musfara (msg # 16):

"What would we do at the Guild? I don't think they'd believe we'e looking to sign up, not with our fancy weapons and armour. Maybe we could pretend to be hiring?"

In reply to Inas Eoinsson (msg # 17):

Eagle shrugs at Ben's words, seemingly little concerned by the plight of city bureaucrats. Although his interest is peaked by the invasive shrubbery.

'I tell you what, why don't you and saliq use your skills to investigate the lords, and I, Rath and Inas will look into these bodies and the deserted tower? As Inas says we could hire some mercenaries to assist our enquiries.'

Uncertain as the reason for the Eagle's abstinence, Ben simply nodded, agreeing that this was a good plan.

Rath shakes his head. He answers Ben. "Those two weren't ... exactly ... dues-paying members." Rath helps himself to the chicken and another half-loaf of warm bread. "Still, if we need to check out the Guild, hiring for a job is one way to go." He scratches his neck and shrugs. "Looking for work, though ... could get us in deeper. I wouldn't worry about the gear, Eoinsson. Coming back from the grave ain't cheap, and I for one am looking to refill the coffers."

"Right well I think we are all agreed then. I suggest we meet back here, at least until we gain anywhere better to hold up." Saliq rose to his feet, his robes flowing around him and again raised his wine in toast. "Gentlemen: to gold, to glory, to adventure."

Strolling over to Ben, Saliq said to his friend: "Ben, I know you, you are a scoundrel to your boots and believe me from a worshipper of Sehanine that is a compliment. What exactly is this research are you planning to do and how can I help?

"We need to learn a few things Saliq. For starters, as much as we can about the political situation in Stormhaven, and the causes of the recent drastic changes."

In reply to Ben Scristos (msg # 22):

"Agreed. I'll try and investigate the Thyrandas family and maybe the Ehridol family too."

---

OOC: The Ehridols were mentioned in one of the Random Hooks (link to a message in this game).

In reply to Aldo Rathmus (msg # 20):

"True. So, we go to the Guild and ask about membership, and about any jobs going with any of the noble families in the city. How does that sound?"

"Good places to start, all," Ben says, happy to see things get organized.

Ben and Saliq spend the next several days trawling the city for any gossip or intel they can gather on the Ehridol, Talas and Thyrandas families. This pursuit amounts to much carousing in inns where they might not normally frequent, putting a substantial dent in both of their coin purses. The city's elite generally do not share the same accommodations as the lesser folk, but Ben and Saliq are men of substance now. Long gone are the days of living hand to mouth or off the rapidly dwindling fortunes of one's family.

Rumor has it...

The Ehridol's seem to be in tacit alliance with the Talas', using their connections in the Mariner's Guild to enforce a naval blockade out at sea, putting heavy restrictions on what sea traffic can come in and out of the city. Supposedly, mercenaries from the Northern Kingdoms have attempted to gain access to the city, but been turned away. Talk centers around the idea that these men in dragon-prowed longboats have come at the behest of Lord Mayor Thyrandas, perhaps to swell his ranks in the event the Mercenaries' Guild makes a play against the Lord Mayor's Lion Sentinels, the ruling family's personal guard and those responsible for defending Stormhaven Keep.

The Talas family has summonsed many of its outlying fiefs to the city, among them, Lord Myron, for a Council of Lords, to be held within the Mercenaries Guild Headquarters. At least a half dozen lords have answered the call and now gather behind closed doors to discuss whatever it is that Lords discuss. Many of the mercenaries recently drawn to the city have swelled Lord Harvan Talas' ranks and some claim his host of swarthy men from the Empires of the Sands number in the hundreds. Certainly their presence is noted in the city. Many of the inns are bursting at the seams trying to accommodate these dark-skinned men.

The Thyrandas family has been holed up behind Stormhaven Keep for several weeks now and the usually quite visible Lord Mayor Eradan has not been seen in some time. A gardener claimed to have recently seen the Lord Mayor walking through the Keep's gardens, with the assistance of several attendants. The Lord Mayor appeared to have aged considerably and was barely recognizable, were it not for the distinctive circlet upon his brow. The Lion Sentinels are quite busy these days, with all members on watch at Stormhaven Keep.

***

Meanwhile, Eagle, Rath, Galadel, and Inas spend their time investigating the Black Tower, which lies in the extreme northwest corner of Oldhaven, wedged between row after row of tenement housing and small family workshops. This is a poor neighborhood, though not filled with scheming thieves and cutthroats, like the Narrows, rather the city's working poor. It is a close-knit neighborhood and the party's presence definitely catches the attention of its denizens. This is not an area typically frequented by any but those whom dwell here, a forgotten corner of the city.

The dark tower rises above the tenements like an ashy finger extended heavenward, her upper reaches ringed by a crown of winged demonic statues, gargoyles, who leer down upon the surrounding neighborhood. A rusted wrought-iron fence surrounds the cramped yard from which the tower rises, the yard given over almost entirely to leafless, twisted briar. The gate entrance is held fast by a massive chain fitted with a heavy iron lock. A painted placard hangs listlessly by a single bolt. The sign reads: "No Trespassing, by Order of Lord Harvan Talas!"

Beyond the closed gate and through the briar, the party can barely make out what looks like a single stone door leading into the tower. Two leering gargoyles flank either side of the door, their dull, stony eyes staring directly down the path, their mouths cast in a permanent menacing sneer.

Glancing around at the surrounding buildings, the party notices that most in the immediate area seem to be vacant, with inhabited dwellings being a good 50 feet distant from the iron fence.

OOC: Continued in Longshadows thread
This message was last edited by the GM at 08:52, Mon 09 Mar 2015.

Saliq decided to work amongst his country men from the Empires of the Sands, a language and land he knew very well. Perhaps they were not exactly sons of Al Alayai Herat (at least he assumed) but he still knew them well enough; did his own brother not employ hundreds more like them?

Trawling the inns and taverns of the city Saliq sought out those of the Southlanders who seemed congenial to talk to a fellow expatriate - though he did not reveal his own royal blood, at least not until he knew where their sympathies lay.

In reply to Saliq Musfara (msg # 27):

Saliq learns that the Men of the Sands have not come to Stormhaven willingly. These are slaves that were acquired in the port city of Al Abayaif, Gateway to the Outside World, as it is commonly referred to in Saliq's native lands. Most of these mercenaries had previously been retained by a rival of Saliq's uncle, man willinglywhich could foretell troubles in those lands. Why would a man willingly relinquish so many slave warriors at once, especially given the long-standing power struggles that occur in those lands?

Plying for more information about such matters, Saliq learns that several of the sultans have banded together in concert against his uncle and his family seems to have fallen on hard times. The mercenaries do not know much about the inner workings of royalty, but can only relay that they have heard of a successful campaign against his uncle, fought in the streets of Herat. Many men perished in the battle, but other than that, the men do not know much else, for they were sold to a new master shortly thereafter.

In reply to DM Storm (msg # 28):

What Saliq had learned deeply troubled the illusionist. His questions had unlocked a deep vein of homesickness, one he had never known he possessed.

I have been too long away from Herat... and now jackals nest in the souks and vultures rest on the minarets. Oh, I must return to the lands of my fathers soon! By the goddess yes, I shall! Let the vile dogs have their hour, they have forgotten one prince of the blood, and my hour too shall come!

"My friend," he said to an officer of the slave warriors, in a tavern private room away from prying eyes. "I swear by the moon goddess that you and your followers shall return home as conquerers not slaves. This northern barbarian, Lord Harvan Talas, what do you make of him?"

The man nods and replies to Saliq's oath, "Praise and Glory to the Gods, many blessings on your house!" This is a common refrain in the Empires and is always offered in goodwill, usually with an extended hand, palm upturned, to which the captain, Aziz, complies.

"I know little of this man you speak, save for that he is surely honorable and indeed blessed." Continuing, "My company has fallen under his noble house for the time being. We are to train in the yards, with promise of a glorious campaign to come. By the Gods hand, praise and glory to them alone, I will do what I must to bring honor to his house."

In Saliq's lands it is not considered good form to speak ill of one's master, except in the confidence of close friends or family, and even then such conversations are usually gilded in metaphoric language. Doing otherwise tempts the ire of the Gods, for one cannot truly understand the designs of gods, mortals being merely vessels of their thoughts.

"By the Gods that it should be so." Saliq said solemnly. "And that they see me return to Al Alayai Herat in time. May the honour guide your footsteps son of the desert, and bravery guide your scimitar."

Mind buzzing with thoughts Saliq returned to the Rusted Nail to speak with Ben and perhaps the others.

"I've done a little bit of chatting around town, and it seems like the family Talas is either very confident, or not so bright. Maybe both.

"It seems the SwampLord didn't buy himself any insurance, if you get my meaning," Ben says to the desert prince in a low voice.

"There are a lot of Men of the Sands in town, warrior slaves sold to Talas family," Saliq mused. He rose. "We best go after our companions though; who knows how much trouble they are in without us?"

[To Longshadows Tower]