Dim Lane, just off Cargo Street, led the group to an even smaller street, an alley really, named Moonshadow Lane. It was here that Dev saw the two story building that was The Widow's Rest. The second floor was an apartment that Almi, Dev's Aunt, let out. Right now the current tenant was an officer from the watch, one Galen Starlen a Deputy Constable of the Night Watch. This made Dev smile. The rent helped cover expenses and having a Night Watch officer living there gave her a little extra protection that she didn't have to pay for. The small tavern stayed open all night and catered mostly to longshoremen from the docks and was a safe place for a few of the Rhennee to gather in seclusion and relative privacy the place provided.

As Dev, Ovo, and Blossom entered they were immediately welcomed by the coolness and dimness of the place. The few tables were lit by copper lamps which were held and raised overhead by metal chains which allowed the lamps to be lowered and refilled with oil and raised again. The higher the lamps hung, the less light would be provided. It depended on the customer and his companions on how much light there would be. Yet, no matter how low, the lamps gave off feeble light none the less. The oil was scented by an extract of the guntha plant known to grow on the banks of the Nyv Dyr. It was favored by the Rhennee for it's sweet aroma though it made The Widow's Rest a smoky place as well.

When Dev's eyes had adjusted to the place's light, he saw that his cousin Amali was waiting tables today. She was young and pretty, mayhaps the prettiest of Almi's three daughters and thus was forced to work days when the crowd was sparse and groping hands were the fewest as well.

"Deverick! Is it really you?" she called over the den of the few assembled patrons. "Oh Dev! I'm so sorry!"

The last was said as she rushed to the big warrior and hugged him in an ogre's grip. Dev could hear her sob as her head burried itself into his chest.
This message had punctuation tweaked by the GM at 04:00, Mon 18 July 2016.

Deverick saw that not much had changed in the Rest, same ole table, chairs, and those bloody smoking lamps, that stank up the place. Dev never could figure out what his mother's people, saw in the use of Guntha plants. She used to bring it as incense when he was growing up, and it was one of the few things that got his father highly annoyed. But he suddenly had to smile, recalling an odd bit of memory from years gone by. His mother had been burning the Guntha plant in the kitchen of their home. His father came in from a long day at the forge, and when he got a whiff, he demanded why she was using it again, after he told her he disliked its "stench". His mother crossed her arms, and like a Knight facing a Dragon, she declared that the reason she burned the incense was due to it masking the most unpleasant but still pleasant thing. His father crossed his arms and demanded to know what she was talking about. His mother pointed to his father, and then waved her hand in front of her nose. His father had been sweating over a forge for most of the day, so he was, ahem, shall we say, he was fragrant. His father looked at her blankly a moment, then roared with laughter. Deverick would miss the banter between his parents, and his father’s laughing.

  Dev snapped back to the present when his cousin greeted him, and offered him her respect to the passing of his father. Before he could reply, she rushed into his massive arms, like some predator leaping upon its prey. Deverick was never one to enjoy the weeping of a woman. He wrapped his massive arms and paws that he had for hands around the woman that was his cousin. He was deeply moved by her grief, and he almost allowed his own to come to the fore. But then he recalled his two companions, and that stopped him cold. His father always said, never show weakness in front of anyone but family.
 He spoke to his cousin in the tongue of the Barge Folk.

. “There, there, lass. It twill be alright. Me da be in a better place now. He be a happy bloke, as he be working a forge fer the Gods. Can’t get any better fer a Blacksmith then shoeing a horse for a Deity.”

 Dev could have broken this small woman, without breaking a sweat, but he was a gentle with her as a new born.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:20, Mon 18 July 2016.

Amali sniffed a few more times and wiped her eyes as she lifted her head from the big warrior's chest. She forced a small smile on her lips.

"Aye! I bet he is as that. He was good enough I'll wager. What brings ya to the rest? Do you know mother was seeking ya then?"

Blossom and Ovo looked from one to the other as it was clear that neither spoke the tongue of the Barge Folk. It was if Amali noticed the pair for the first time as well.

"They be friends of yours then? I can find ya a table. Mother is out but will be back in a short moment. Look at ya! Looking like a swordsman for sure."

 Deverick smiled to his cousin,and slowly nodded.

"Aye, that he was,me Da could work iron en steel like nay one else. I be er cause some little toss pot o a Gnome named Tess, hunted me down,and told me yer Ma wanted ta talked ta me."

 When his cousin made mention of his two companions, Deverick realized he had been talking in the tongue of the Rhennee folk. Dev dropped back into the Common tongue.

"Oh aye, these er be me mates. She be Blossom,a Shield Maiden, and this er be Ovo,a Dwarf Warrior. And this beauty be me cousin Amali,on me mas side of things."

Amali chuckled at the gnome's name.

"Aye! She is known to Mother and us. She can be trusted Dev. In fact, she's with Mother now. Where? I don't know. Mother never tells me anything."

Amali nodded to each in turn as the big warrior introduced his two companions.

"If you be with my cousin Dev then your family to me. Let me show you all to a quiet table. Mother has some good mutton with sage roasting. We have good ale as you know and some good wine from Keoland if that be more to your liking."

She said smiling, leading them to a corner table.

"Sit here and I'll be back with some drinks. What will you have?" she arched an eyebrow toward each in turn.

"No vine fer me. Ale be gud. Dat and da roast." said Blossom returning the young Rhennee's smile.

"Ale fer me too!" said Ovo with a wink.

"And you Dev?" Amali asked.

 Deverick was surprised that his aunt was with the Gnome, but he had no reason to doubt his cousin.

" I'll av the mutton,a tankard o good Ale, and some bread and cheese."

 Deverick leaned over and spoke his mother's tongue into the ear of his cousin.

"Amali, all three o us,av need o a place ta stash some coin for a day er so. It be a decent amount,di ye think Auntie would keep it fer us? We av a task ta do, after I speak to er nibbs. We nay want ta av ta worry bout our goods."
This message was last edited by the player at 02:56, Tue 19 July 2016.

Amali nodded and gave Dev a sly wink "Aye! Anything for you. That mutton and ale is coming right up!"

Then she was gone! The three were sitting alone for a bit. Three of the patrons at the bar were longshoremen by their looks and dress. Yet, two others that sat at another corner table... the furthermost away from the party appeared to be Rhennee themselves. One looked toward Dev's table and nodded in their direction.

"Them that's ah talk'n about us be true Rhennee right Dev? Mayhaps they be friends o' yer Aunt... I wonder wot theu're talk'n aboot." said the dwarf.

Blossom shook her head "Most like vee don't look like Barge Folk. Maybee dey vonder vhy vee are here. Dat's vhat I dink. Maybee dey should be told by yer kousin vee are velkum here."

 Dev saw the other Barge folk seated at another table nod his way. Deverick nodded back with a smile.

"Aye, they be true Rhennee,Ovo. As far as we being welcome, ye be with me,and I be family o th owner. And besides, if anyone in er has a problem with us being er, they can Bugger off. But ta be honest, many o th folk ad a problem when me parents joined. Some think me brothers an me be half breeds,not welcome round their fires. But me mums clan tolerates me en mine,Some of em even likes us. Me Aunt likes me well enough,en she as some weight in er clan. She be a wise woman o sorts, and many come ta er fer counsel."

 Deverick looked around the room, just to make sure no one got any ideas.

Amali was true to her word, she returned shortly with a tray laden with thick slices of roast mutton spiced with rosemary, sage, and thyme. This along with fresh bread, a wheel of cheese from Elmshire to the north, and three foaming mugs of dark ale.

"Here you be good folk! Fresh from the kitchen. You'll find no better on the Strip or dare I say anywhere in Greyhawk City!" Amali said and almost lost a finger to Ovo!

The dwarf nearly pounced upon the mutton.

"I've nay had the like for three moons or more! We dwarfs are great lovers o' mutton ya see. All the sheep we keep in the mountain valleys and hill aboot. Tis ah fine meal lass! Ah mite better than fishstew I can say!"

Blossom smiled at the dwarf and gave another to Amali "Are all of Borcarsen's family as nice as ya then?"

"None as nice as me! I'm Dev's favorite... cousin that is. Well I've got to get back to wait'n the tables and fetch'n food for the bar. I'll be back though. If ya need me before then just wave!"

"She's nice Boracarsen. Vill vee meet yer Aunt too?" the maiden asked with an arched brow.

"Who cares as long as she keeps cook'n the mutton!" quipped the dwarf.

 When the tray of food was brought forth, by Dev's cousin, his nose detected it long before his eyes. Deverick was a big man, and had an appetite to match. When the food was spread out into the table before the three, Dev took his eating knife,and spear a few slices of mutton covered in gravy. He tore off some bread,and sliced off some cheese. Once he was done, he slid the tray towards the Blossom.

Me Aunt movs in er own good time,Blossom. Til then, eat up, th food er be good. This er mutton smells so good, I bet ole Tritherion emself, might come down from th eavens, for a slice. " He said with a laugh.

 Deverick thanked his cousin,and waited for her to leave before he spoke to his companions.

 " Jus wanted ta let  you lot know, I found  100 orbs, 30 silver nobles and 50 copper commons, in that there evil she Priest's satchel. We can divide it up latter."

 He then concentrated on eating for a time,savoring the rich flavor of the meat,and the coolness of the ale he washed it down with.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:08, Wed 20 July 2016.

As Dev and his companions ate their fill of the tasty mutton, cheese, and bread all were aware of man, short and wiry but strong, standing 5 feet 6 inches tall. His leathers and bright yellow shirt accented by a scarlet sash. A broad bladed knife was tucked within the sash with a well worn wooden handle sticking out.

His skin was an olive hue and his hair was curly and dark black. There was no doubt of his Rhennee heritage. He spoke in the Rhennee tongue which they named Rhopan.

"You speak our language well for a *shurvesh!" he said with a smile that did not reach his dark brown eyes.

Behind him was his companion, dark eyes glanced this way and that. It was obviously keeping a watch out for trouble.

*Shurvesh- is a word, derogatory term for non-Rhennee.
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:06, Wed 20 July 2016.

 Deverick was sitting there drinking his ale, after a wonderful meal. He watched the man walk over and knew this one meant no good. When the man spoke to Dev only to insult him, Deverick offered the man a broad smile... just before he punch the insulting one in the teeth.

21:23, Today: Deverick rolled 7 using 1d20+1.  Punch on the loud mouth.

Dev was mad and would have hit the wiry Rhennee bravo hard if he had not side stepped the blow! He countered with a punch of his own to Dev's gut which would have hurt more... but Dev was wearing his chainmail!

The Rhennee cried out in pain as Dev prepared for the next round!

OOC:

20:39, Today: The Oligarch rolled 2 using 1d3+1.
20:39, Today: The Oligarch rolled 15 using 1d20+1.  Rhennee Brawl- fist.

The Rhennee takes 1 point of damage due to the chain!
Dev takes 2!
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:23, Wed 20 July 2016.

 Dev missed with his swing,as the other was small and agile. The big man got to his feet as his opponant hit Dev in the gut and hurt his hand on Devs mail. The large man was now towering over the swarthy looking man, and Devs expression was angry. He spoke then in perfect Rhopan.

" I be Deverick, son o Borcar the smith and is woman Esmerelda of th Rhennee. Me blood of th people flows through me veins from me mother. I claim er clan as me own, as be me birth right"

 He then sent a punch towards the jaw of the smaller man.

22:48, Today: Deverick rolled 93 using 1d100.  Knock Out.
22:47, Today: Deverick rolled 5 using 1d3+3.  Punch damage.
22:46, Today: Deverick rolled 14 using 1d20+1.  Second punch


"Let anyone that would call me, nay o the People, come forward and face me wraith."
This message was last edited by the player at 03:21, Wed 20 July 2016.

Smaller Rhennee was no match for Dev's size and strength. The big warrior's blow sent the smaller man careening across the floor and he landed in a heap. His partner was about to draw the blade in his sash but froze.

"Well now, this be ah gnomish bow. It be hold'n seven bolts. At least one for everyone here, mayhaps more for the others if ye be too smart ta fight wi' the like o' us. Keep yer hands up n' where they can be seen!" the dwarf said with a smug smile, his beard dripping with gravy from the mutton.

Blossom rose to her full height "He is Deverick da Bold. He is my friend. Ta draw steal on him is ta draw steel on me!"

The companion stayed his hand as he knelt beside his friend.

"You dare strike Rogio! You will pay for such a thing yes?"

"But not THIS night!" said a firm but feminine voice! "What he said was true and my blood and the blood of MY clan runs through him. He is here because I invited him!"

Dev need not look but he did it anyway. It was his aunt, dressed in one of her many layered skirts ans a gaudy blouse with big puffy sleeves. Her eyes were hard and flint-like made the darker by the keen use of Kohl. There was strength in those eyes. There was power in those eyes.

"Any who do him harm will suffer my curse. Leave now while you may. Test me not."

The Rhennee bravo lifted Rogio over his shoulder and they were gone without another word. There was fear upon his hard countenance.

"Deverick The Tall no longer then, Deverick The Bold... yes?" Almi said with a slight smile.
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:36, Wed 20 July 2016.

 Deverick watched the two men depart, without another word. But as soon as they were alone, Dev broke out into a laugh and moved over and swept up the small woman into his arms in a bear hug. He spun her around with another laugh.

“Auntie! By the Gods above, and Demons below, it be good ta see ye! Mayhap ye be pleased at see me ugly face as well.”

 Deverick would not normally have attacked a stranger for calling him a name, well, not the first name anyway. Bu when he was a child, he had been teased and had mud, rotten eggs, and worse thrown at him and his brothers, by other Barge Folk children, for being "Half Breeds". The name the man had used would not be tolerated by Dev, ever again.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:04, Wed 20 July 2016.

The older Rhennee gave the big warrior feigned resistance as she half-heartily pushed against his chest.

"Put me down you big lout! Is this how you treat a Vetha of your clan!"

The crowd of longshoremen at the bar raised their tankards in a cheer, mayhaps for their antics, mayhaps for Dev's hitting the bravo, or mayhaps for both at once! Even Amali was laughing. Blossom's eyes were wide as saucers. Ovo laughed out loud and banged his tankard on the table.

"A lively jig lad! Are ye the maid that made the mutton then? Fer if ye are then I might jus dance wi' ye meself!"

Amli just scowled "That will be the day dwarf! Now put me down Deverick... the Bold! Though we can make merry later but for now there are matters to be taken care of."

*Vetha- a Rhenne wise woman that many claim have the second sight!

 Deverick laughed again, as he sat his Aunt upon her feet, and kissed her on her forehead.

“But ye be so adorable, I can’t elp meself, Auntie. But I be rude,this er be me mates. Ovo and Blossom. I met em in the Mercenary Guild and we be workin together.”

 Dev grabbed up his tankard of ale and took a drink.

 “Right, I be here, wha be on yer mind then, Auntie?”

Amli dusted herself off and and pursed her lips. When Dev kissed her forehead she quickly turned around and stomped her foot! Though she tried to hide it, Dev saw a slight smile on her lips before she made it all the way around.

"Blossom! Ovo! If you are friends of Deverick then you are welcome under my roof. Enjoy your stay! Eat and drink your fill. I must barrow Deverick the Bold for a time."

She then took his big paw in her little hand, with fine thin fingers, and led him to a room just off of the Common Room. She opened the door and there was a sitting room with two comfortable chairs before a hearth, which held no fire this night. There was a sturdy wooden table with four chairs, no doubt where Almi and her daughters took their private meals. Here and there were fine rugs and tapestries from far off Ket and Ekbir. Each one easily worth a hundred orbs or more. Up against the far wall were large embroidered cushions which Dev knew the Rhennee used aboard their barges... to sit upon and sometimes even sleep upon when they sailed the Nyr Dyv. There were two rooms off of this one, both doorways contained curtains of many beads. She took Dev to the one on the right.

This room was spartan and contained only three items. A large well made feather bed, as fine as Dev had ever seen. A true luxury for one who was used to sleeping in the small cramped quarters of a barge. The blankets looked to be of fine wool and the sheets the best linen. There was a sturdy, iron bound wooden chest. The lock looked to be of dwarven make. No doubt strong enough to keep Almi's wealth safe from all save the strongest ogre! Lastly, there was a simple table with but two chairs, one across from the other. Upon the table was but a oil lamp and a deck of cards, Dev knew they were the cards of a Vetha... one of the ways they saw the future.

After lighting the lamp she bid Dev take a seat and she sat across from him. She shuffled the artistic cards with strange symbols and weird creatures upon them. She nodded to Dev.

"Cut the cards Deverick... then choose three... these will decide what the fates have in store for you."
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:56, Thu 21 July 2016.

 Deverick followed his aunt into her inner sanctium, When she lead him to THE table, he started to think up an excuse,any excuse not to do what he knew she was going to ask him to do.

"Auntie, ye knows those cards ye av giv me th willies. Do I av ta draw em?"

 But as always, in the end, Dev did as he bid him,as much as he didn't want too.

In reply to Deverick (msg # 21):

Once the cards were chosen, Amli read them one by one...

The first had a picture of a diminutive figure with a rather large nose and smiling face. He was extending a nut brown hand toward you standing within a serene forest. The sun is shining brightly and banishing the clouds away.

"A... gnome will befriend you. Ahhhh... Tess sought you out for me. She said there was something strange about your meeting... as if she knew you from somewhere before. Yes I think it is her."

The second card represented a masked and cloaked man in black, in one hand he held a sealed parchment on the other hand he wore a sigil ring with a strange rune upon it.

"Mmmmm... you will receive important news from a man Deverick. This may be someone you know or mayhaps a stranger but you will know it when you hear it. You and the news you will hear are interconnected. Your fate is intertwined with it. It will bring you woe to ignore it."

The third card held a picture of a beautiful woman with blue eyes and long blonde hair. In one hand she held a bloody dagger and in the other a bleeding heart...

At seeing the third card Almi gasped "I'm... sorry Deverick. I thought I saw it upon your companions face... in her eyes... she has love for you. Yet, something will stand in your way. In the end this will break your heart... unless you can remove the obstacle. There will be no lasting love between you."

OOC:

21:27, Today: The Oligarch drew the 3 cards: 10D, 7H, 9S using a deck of 52 cards.
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:05, Thu 21 July 2016.

 The young Warrior sat across from his aunt, as he had done since he was a Lad. It was now as it had been the first time she had used these cards. Deverick found himself holding  his bread,as she turned over the first card. When she bespoke of a Gnome, he found it hard to believe,but held his tongue.

 The second card was turned over,and she bespoke of its meaning. "Auntie, that could mean many things, I av a few lads that I av dealt with. But I  twill take ye words fer it."

 The last card was the one that got the greatest reaction out of Deverick, He almost laughed aloud,but stiffled the impulse out of respect for his Aunt and her gift.

"But we jus met wha, less then two days ago. Be that possible, er having feelings fer me? Bloody Nine Hells, Auntie, She don't know a bloody thing bout me."
This message was last edited by the player at 03:21, Thu 21 July 2016.

Almi sat back and sighed "Regardless, the cards say what the cards say. It would be folly to ignore the fates and those who can foretell what might be. I had a feeling you were in danger Deverick. I cast a small cantrip and used your name as a focus. I did so after word reached me of what happened between your brother and you at the Smithy. The fates are not smiling on you so I knew I needed to do a reading. I sent Tess to find you. I knew see could find you if anyone could. Mayhaps there is some... connection betwixt you two."

She then chuckled as Dev said that Blossom knew nothing of him.

"You forget Deverick the Tall... your mother knew nothing of your father. yet when she saw him... well you know the rest. Mayhaps this is the obstacle you and the woman outside must face. Your mother left her life and family behind to be with your father. Though some like me never lost love for her, many did so. I drew the same card for her when she asked me to do a reading of their possible union. She overcame the obstacle which was the ties to her people and culture. What your obstacle might be... only time will tell. Until then guard your heart least it breaks."
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:51, Thu 21 July 2016.

In reply to The Oligarch (msg # 24):

  After his Aunt, told him what was what, Dev just sat there,with a dumb expression upon his face. She had given him much to dwell upon, and Deverick did his bet dwelling with a few pints in him.

" I nay be looking fer any sort of pairing,Auntie. I av to many wold oats ta sew afore I even begin ta think bout a wife. Nay, Blossom be a mate,sword companion, maybe more if she be interested...but a love interest? Mayhap ye needs a new deck, that there one might be gettin dull."

 Dev decided to try and change the subject,before his aunt took him to task over his disbelief,or more like want to disbelieve.

" What be goin on with so many Clans gathering here.And do ye knows who that piss pot be? Th one I layed out."

Amli shook her head slowly, her dark eyes focused upon the big warrior across from her.

"Believe or nay Deverick the Tall. The fates are stronger than most would think of them. It does not mean they can nay be changed but one must know what they intend first before change can take place. That is if one wishes such change. As far as my deck goes... I shall keep this one."

At the mention of the clans and their gathering, Amli's lips turned to a frown.

"Zorran, one of our most powerful Clan lords, has sent word for a meeting. The talk of the people is he foretells of an opportunity to make much gold in the near future. If it makes the clans gold then it may make Zorran high in their eyes. This has always been his goal."

When Dev asked of the downed bravo, her frown evolved into a scowl.

"Rogio? He is an enforcer for that upstart Demetri. He has of late grown into power among the Rhennee that call Greyhawk their home port. Lord Demetri asks for and I pay a small sum for his protection. It brings in some coin from the Rhennee and he does not target my plce for theft. Some say he has an arrangement with The Thieve's Guild so they do not targret those he protects either."

Almi then smiled "Good thing I paid him before you knocked him cold eh?"

  The Old woman was very certain of herself, just like Devs mother was. As sweet as honey,or as tart as vinegar, whatever the situation demanded. The Warrior took the information about the Clans activity with great interest. When Amli was finished, Deverick had a contemplative expression.

" Aye, what ye told me, be right interesting Auntie,I wonder what Zorran's idea be." He shrugged.

"Auntie, I be needin ta ask ye a favor. Me mates en me av some coin we needs stashed for a day er so. Do ye mind if ye could keep it fer us?"

 Deverick sat the sack with his share of the previous nights activity onto the table with a distinctive clinking sound.

" If ye needs any coin,I be happy ta share with blood kin."
This message was last edited by the player at 23:11, Fri 22 July 2016.

In reply to Deverick (msg # 27):

At Deverick's first question she shook her head.

"No one knows for sure but I have my eyes and ears out and about. Tess being one of them. Yet, knowing Zorran as I do it might have something to do with smuggling something in or out of Greyhawk. That is his forte I know. I thought about doing a seeing but the moons are not yet in the proper alignment. So now you tell me... why are you so interested Deverick the Tall?"

When asked about the money she smiled.

"I see you have done well for yourself. Of course. My chest is able to hold yours and the others coin. Between Deputy Constable Starlen living upstairs, Demetri's bravo's in the common room, and my dwarven lock, your coin should be safe enough. You are family Deverick the Tall and always will be the blood of my blood. This was one of the reasons I sought you out. To offer you coin and a place to rest your lug of a head since the death of your father and the argument with your brother."

 Deverick reached over and took the older woman's hands into his massive ones. He gave them a gentle squeeze as a tear welled up and slowly slide down his face.

 "Ye where always good to me and ma brothers,en I be grateful fer ye,Auntie. I love ye ta th end of time. My Da going ta th Gods.. it jus be starting ta sink in with me."

 Deverick would never show weakness in front of his brothers,and he certainly could never be seen as anything less then a pillar of strength in front of his new companions, But here,in this place, away from prying eyes,and in the company of someone he cared for deeply,he could lower his guard, and grieve for his father. He pulled his aunt to him,and wept.

The older woman returned Dev's embrace and patted his back reassuringly.

"Now Deverick the Tall, your Mother and your Dah prepared you well for life and the fates. yet I miss my dear sister each and everyday. Pain can... will ease with time. Until then I shall always be here for you... and your coin."

The last was said with a slight smile tugging at the corner of her mouth. Then, Dev felt the Rhennee stiffen in his embrace.

Deverick thought he heard a scrape of a boot-heel upon the wooden floor behind him!

"Tess! How long have you been standing there?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:25, Sat 23 July 2016.

The gnome stood silently behind the pair with her petit arms across her chest and a smug smile on her lips.

"Long enough I'll wager but I didn't wanta disturb such a touching family moment. You get yer coin pouch back Deverick the Tall? Whatcha gonna do wi' that pearl anyway? I know ah mage up in Clerkburg that will give ya ah... a hundred n' twenty five orbs cause they're rare."

 Deverick whirled around and glared at the Gnome, for he knew she had seen him in a moment of weakness.
" Alright, I twas rude ta ye when we first met,en ye cut me purse. Th scales now be balanced tween us, Gnome. But if ye evers mention what ye bore witness ta er,I turns ye inside out. Me oath on that. But with that being said, ye be welcome fer me auntie stands fer ye."

Deverick wiped his face a few times.

"Ye never saw no pearl,Tess. And wha I does with it be me business, nay yours."

Almi looked to be a little irritated herself as she looked upon the gnome with dark disapproving eyes.

"You are supposed to be my spy not spying on me. What did you find out. Deverick can hear anything you have to say. Now then, what are the Rhennee doing out on the wharf?"

Tess uncrossed her arms and shrugged her shoulders. A slow smile spread along her lips.

"A hundred and twenty five orbs is nothing to tale lightly and is a twenty five percent profit ta boot. Yet, I 'll play along wi' your game. It's your pearl, do with it what ya will. As for nay seeing ya all blubbery n' all, everything has it's price don't it? Yet, you're probably right... we're even."

When Almi asked her question Tess became more serious, both in tone and outlook.

"Much of what ya thought be right Mistress. Zorran is smuggling something in and something out... or should I say someone or someones that is. I don't know who or why but that is the word. That and he has been spending money big money for gifts for the other visiting clan lords. Looks like his greasing some palms for furture favors but again... what they are I know not."

 Deverick heard the Gnomes report to his Aunt with some interest, He just remembered something else he wanted to show his aunt.

"I av something ta show ye auntie. I will do it once Tess be gone."


Deverick would wait til the Nosy Gnome was gone, then produce the papers he had taken from the Evil Cleric the night before.

"I be wonderin if ye might know what this er scribbling may mean,Auntie. Me and me mates took em off a Half Orc Priestess o Erythnul." He layed the papers out on the table for her inspection.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:17, Sun 24 July 2016.

Tess again shrugged "As me ole Dah use ta say, no snot from my nose. I'll go out and have some ah that mutton and ale. See ya later Deverick the Untrusting!"

She then went out on quiet soft booted feet and shut the door behind her.

Almi looked at the papers with a furrowed brow. Then she pursed her lips before slowly shaking her head.

"Most of this is just gibberish to me but one thing stands out to me. See here!" she said pointing with a slender finger.

T"his bit... about when both moons are full in the skies. It must mena when both Celene and Luna are full. It is said that is when magic is the strongest. I know this to be true for my vision is the clearest to me. I'm not sure but I can find out when this will be. As for the rest of this I can not help you. For that I am sorry."

"Mayhap the Priests o Tritherion will know what this bloody thing be. Thank ye fer havin a look, Auntie. Me mates and me av ta run en errand, then we be back fer our goods. if ye need anything from me,I be yer man."

Deverick gave her a quick hug, then returned to the common room. He resumed his seat with his companions.

" I av got me aunt ta agree ta watch our goods while we takes a stroll ta the High Quarter. We nay wants take go walkin round with so much coin, Every ruddy Thieve en Alley Basher would be following us, like dogs after a bone. Ye av me guarantee, yer goods be safe er."

Almi sighed and her face became quite bright!

"It's on the night of Midsummer's Eve, and important events for the Flanaess often begin, end, or climax on this night."

She nodded "If you put your faith in the gods Deverick, then Tritherion is known to be lawful and is as good as any. Have a care Deverick. Mind what the cards have said. Mayhaps you should take Tess along? She can be trusted and is quite resourceful. With all this strangeness going on one can use all the friends one can get. Do not forget about receiving important news from a man either. Now go and worry not about your coin, it will be safe here."
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:28, Sun 24 July 2016.

Ovo nodded a greeting and promptly belched upon Deverick's return. The big warrior saw that all the mutton and most of the cheese was gone now.

"Well now... " the dwarf said taking a pull of his ale. "... I trust ye n' yern Deverick. Tell yer Auntie I"ll give 'er ten orbs fer watch'n me gold n' fer this fine meal. IF I may do her ah gud turn in the future she must only name it!"
This message was last edited by the player at 03:29, Sun 24 July 2016.

Blossom shook her head and feigned a frowned! At last she couldn't hold it any longer.

"By Kord! I vould nay haff thought it possible but I haff heard it vith my oown ears. Da dwarf vill give his gold ah-vay? I don't believe it! Vell? I kan't let Ovo out give me!"

She dug into her pouch and produce two platinum plates!

"Dese are for her Deverick da Bold! Vith my danks!"

 When his two companions agreed to leave their money with his aunt,Deverick got to his feet. " Right, we leave our goods here,en head fer the High Quarter by way o the Black Gate, I av ta giv Tal his cut. Let's be off."

The gnome sauntered over to their table with a full tankard of ale and a piece of mutton between two pieces of bread. She bowed low to the dwarf and maiden in turn.

"Mayhaps I can help? I know my way around ya know. I also know some learned people over in Clerkburg that may be able to help you out... I mean if you should need something... mmmm... let say translated or symbols identify... all that kinda stuff."

She took a big bite of her... gnomewhich and then talked around the mouthful.

"The least... I could... do... is take... Tal's cut... to him. I... know him... well enough... ya know?"

Ovo sat smiling at the gnome but Blossom only scowled.

 Deverick scowled at the Gnome.Hehad shed blood with Ovo and Blossom,and he knew their measure for  the most part.But this Gnome, while his aunt vouched for Tess, she had yet to prove herself to Deverick.

 " Tess, we got off ta a bad start, It had been a bloody bad night,and then ye,a stranger, comes looking fer me. I was in nay mood to trust or be nice at that time. But since me Auntie thinks ye can be trusted, I will trust ye. So, I be offering me regrets fer acting like an arse towards ye. Nay hard feelings."

 Deverick trusted his aunt,so he would trust Tess,at least until she proved unworthy of it.

" But ye av ta understand one thing, if ye wants ta work with us,our business be our business. Wa we do, be not fer the ears o others. Me auntie be not counted in that,ye can tell er, but nay other. If ye can live with that, be welcome, if not, be well to ye."

 And again, Deverick was talking way more then he was used to doing. He suddenly wondered how he had been thrust into the role of de facto leader of this small merry band. Had there been an election,or something? He did not recall being asked to be the leader, it just seemed he was suddenly one. A nagging thought was that some practitioner of the arts arcane, with a sick sense of humor, might have cast some spell to make Dev look like he knew what he was doing.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:14, Sun 24 July 2016.

The gnome plopped down upon the available seat and sat her gnomewhich upon the table. She then dusted off her hands with a flourish and held a tiny paw out to Dev. She gave him a smile and wink.


"Your Aunt has done me favors in the past n' I have done for her. We're not just acquaintances Deverick... we've become friends of sorts. Friends help friends, that's what they do. Now you're right, we don't know each other very well. That goes both ways. I only offered ta help out because your Aunt asked me to. You seem ta be bit of grouch ta me but I accept your apology and give ya one o' me own. Only time will tell if we too become friends Deverick the Bold but I'm willing ta try, for Almi's sake if you are?"

Blossom sat back in her seat and shook her head.

"Dev's Aunt likes ya yah? It seems Ovo her likes ya too. But I don't trust ya. Nay vun bit. yet, if Borcarsen asks ya ta join us den I vill nay stand against it. Jus know, I vill be vatch'n ya yah?"

 Dev made a mental sigh when Blossom declared she trusted Tess about as far as she could throw a castle.  Deverick decided that having someone that was good as skulking, locks and what not, might come in handy. If they where going to try their fate in the bowls of Castle Greyhawk, Tess would be needed. But then another thought came to the fore about the Gnome.

 " Tess, I knows ye be a Thief, but be ye part o th Guild er in Greyhawk?"

Tess nearly spat out her ale as Dev so causally mentioned her being a thief and if she was apart of the great Guild of Greyhawk.

"Keep your voice low when speaking about that!" she whispered but sounded more like a hiss!

"Tomas Ratek is Master Thief o' the River Quarter n' he rules it wi' an iron hand. I am a free-lancer I suppose... using my skills for meself n' friends. I nay belong to that Guild nor would I ever join. For that reason I could be the next body in the Selitian ‎River face down if ya know what I mean." she continued in a low voice looking at each person at the table in turn.

"Why he's probaly got eyes n' ears in every other Guild in the quarter... not ta mention the Dockers' and Wharfmen's Union." at this she eyed those at the bar who by appearance probably plied that trade.
This message was last updated by the player at 19:35, Sun 24 July 2016.

Ovo's eyes nearly bulged out of his skull and his hand went involuntarily to his coin pouch!

"Yer ah Thief!" he nearly shouted!

At this Tess sighed loudly and rolled her eyes before burying her head under her arms!

Blossom smiled smugly and crossed her arms over her ample bosom. She gave Dev a curt nod and a knowing look as if to say I told you so!

 Deverick sighed, when Tess told him what he kind of suspected.

" Tess, This as nuttin ta do with what twas tween us afore. I meant wh I said, I trust ye on th trust o me Aunt. But this now be a different animal,we be talking bout. Greyhawk be a Guild city,everyone worthy o th name be in a Guild o some sort.They make this city run smooth. Even the bloody beggars av a guild,but calls it summthin else. Me da was Guild,as are me brothers, I twas an Apprentice in the Guild of Blacksmiths afore I joined th Miltia. We three be in the Mercenaries Guild. Ye av ta be in the Guild ta ply yer trade,Lass."

 And he was doing it again, his tongue was wagging more then a dog's tail in frot of a Butchers shop.But he felt strongly about what he was now telling the Gnome,Tess.

"Ye must be good, cause ye still be drawin breath. But they will catch ye in the end. I hears they offer ye ta join then chop ye, iffin ye refuse. Even Thieves av ta earn thier bread, Tess. Ye av ta join th Guild, otherwise ye can't work with our lot."

 The look on Deverick's face was most serious,and it was obvious be believed every word he was saying.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:49, Sun 24 July 2016.

Tess slowly rose from her seat and gave each member a curt nod, saving Dev's for last.

"Then I suppose I'm out. I could never serve a man like that... even though your Aunt wishes me ta join ya. Fare thee well Deverick the Tall... or the Bold, whichever you may be."

The gnome then turned on her heels and headed for the door, pausing only to hand an incoming dock worker her gnomewhich.

"You can have it. I hardly touched it n' the mutton is as good as ever. I suddenly lost my appetite."

The words... Heed the Cards Deverick came to mind.

But then she was gone...
This message was last edited by the player at 20:59, Sun 24 July 2016.

 Again, the large Warrior sighed and scratched his bald head. " Well, that be that,as they says. Lets get this er errand over with in th High Quarter, unless one o you lot av other ideas."
 He stood to his feet,and adjusted his mail and belts,while he waited for his companions.

Deverick and his companions left the Widow's Rest behind them. The sun, Sol, beat down on the group as they made their way first to Dim Lane and then up Cargo Street. Cargo Street took them all the way to The Processional which ran the length of Greyhawk City. The streets in the River Quarter had sparse traffic but once they hit the main artery, the crowds grew tenfold! Though usually Deverick would have headed north to reach the High Quarter, he had another stop first so south he went with Ovo and Blossom in tow.

Fighting the crowds upon the Processional was both time consuming and frustrating as people bumped and jostled one another as they passed the best they could. The crowds worsen as they approached the throngs that had gathered at the Petit Bazaar. Remembering Tal's trick, they took several side streets and came out the other side with The Black Gate in sight! There they would find Tal and there they could give him Ren's own reward. The beggar had made plenty of coin in the last few days but he probably never held a gem worth a hundred orbs... till now!

Dev continued southward on the Processional for about a half mile and there was the lad... holding out his wooden bowl for all passerby to give alms for the poor. The young lad spotted the tall warrior, who stood nearly a half foot over most folk.

"Dev! Is it you then? You made it!" he cried out. "I'm glad to see you! I wasn't sure when we would meet again. I have news though!"

 The three of them fought the crowds along the Processional until they finally gained the Black Gate. Deverick looked for the Beggar boy,and finally saw Tal. Deverick walked up to the boy and grabbed him by the scruff of the Neck.

"There ye be, ye scruffy begger boy. I should box yer ears,be what I should do. Ye promised me a service ta show me ta th High Quarter. Be about it,Lad."

 While Dev had the boy close to him.

" Jus play along, Tal."

 The large Warrior shoved Tal toward the North along the Professional.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:35, Mon 25 July 2016.

Tal raised his slim hands above his head to ward off Dev's blows! Though when he faced the big warrior. his arms blocked the view of other so only Dev could see and he winked. He then clasped his hands before him!

"Please! Please sir! Nay beat me! I'll honor our bargain I will. Follow me!"

He led the three adventurers around the market with it's crowds of shoppers, merchants, traders, entertainers, and thieves who prayed on all of them. Tal led them to a side street that they had just used and then up an alleyway that ended in a cul-de-sac. Here the young beggar gathered the group and looked about to make sure they were alone.

"You learn fast Dev! Nice act out there! Yet, our time is limited and I have some important news. Gaspar asked me to seek you out. Word has trickled back to him about your success last eve. I think he means to offer you a position within the Union itself! As an enforcer... mayhaps his own bodyguard! There's coin enough. Some bad news though. The guard who fled... the one who was in the hag's service got caught by a street gang that owes allegiance to Gaspar. He's being brought to Gaspar today. I said nothing about Ren... I promise but if this bravo was privy to the cleric's plans, why he'll know it was Ren you freed. Speaking o' Ren? Did he enter Greyhawk wi' you all then?"

 When they reached the cul de sac,Deverick asked Ovo and Blossom to keep watch while he spoke with Tal.

" Go ahead en tell that bloated toad Gaspar it twas Ren, Tell em ye didn't know this till now. Tell em ye tricked it out o me. if that guard they av spills his guts, Gaspar will know anyways. At least ye can get th credit fer telling em first."

 Deverick reached into his belt pouch.

"I av suthin fer ye Tal, it be a reward fer yer part in rescue. Ye earned this Lad."

 Deverick took the youngs boys hand and placed the pearl on his palm.

"It be a pearl, worth I hears a hundred Orbs,mayhap more. But ye av ta hides it from Gaspar en his lot."

 Deverick closed Tal's hand over the pearl, then released him.

Tal's eyes nearly popped out of his head as he gazed upon the jewel. The young boy held it in a shaking hand and he looked at Dev with hero worship!

"Ya mean it Deverick? Ya mean its all mine? Oh! I'll hide it alright! You betcha! Thanks Deverick! You're the best! But you didn''t answer me question... did Ren enter the city wi' ya or no? I need to know. Cause I thought he was staying outside the walls... I could be wrong though."

In reply to Tal (msg # 59):

"Aye it be all yours, Lad. As fer where Ren be,I dunno, he nay tells me his comings en goings. Why do ye need ta know anyway?"

Tal swallowed hard and looked up to Dev with carefully.

"I need not know where he be. I know you are beholden to him. Yet if he nay suppose to be in Greyhawk proper he's been seen first in the Foreign Quarter and then they say he was seen in the High Quarter. Something else you should know. Negly Gasgal, deputy constable, is looking for ya. He's in the Old City right now so stay clear. I hear he is corrupt as the day is long. Gaspar has bribed him oft enough."

" Why in the bloody hells does the Deputy Constable want with th likes o me? It can't be over that there rescue. An Ren can't be in two places at once, Lad. But Gods truth, I  dont know where he be at. He be a bloody Oligarch after all"

 He tousled Tal's hair " Gotta go Lad.Av a care, en watch yer back. Fare well."

 Deverick rejoined his friends to continue on to the High Quarter.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:34, Tue 26 July 2016.

As Deverick walked onward, his mind had to dwell on the news that the young beggar gave him. That Gaspar wanted him to mayhaps join him at the Beggars' Union. That a Deputy Constable and nephew of the mayor himself, was looking for him. For what reason the big warrior could only guess. Then there was the news that Ren himself was walking the streets of Greyhawk! If so why? Why did the Master Merchant send them to the High Quarter when he was seen there? So many questions with little answers it would seem. He might fine some answers upon reaching the casino, The Wheel Of Gold.


To The Wheel Of Gold thread.

From The Behind Close Doors thread!

Deverick made his way as quick as he could but the Strip was as crowded as usual. Even for a big man like Dev wearing the Uniform of a Watchman. Yet, Deverick did better than most. Because of the crowd and all the revels, the big warrior could not be sure he had a tail or not. At least no one stood out to him. No Ren o' the Star, or halfling, or red-headed gnome. Finally after about a hour of working his way up the strip Dev finally made the side street Dim Lane, which in turn lead to the alleyway called Moonshadow Lane! The all too familiar sign swung in the slight evening breeze. The sun was slipping below the horizon as Dev pushed his way through the door.

As Deverick entered the tavern, the dock workers grew quiet. The mercenary doubted, dressed as he was, they would remember him. Besides most were deep into their cups. As his eyes adjusted to the dimness of the place, he picked out the table where Ovo and Blossom sat. Blossom looked somewhat dejected as she sat staring into her cup while the dwarf was turning his up with three "dead soldiers" set about him.

Amli was behind the bar, squinting in his direction "Garret? Nay too big... can I help you Watchman? Do you seek Deputy Constable Starlen?"

 Deverick walked into the Widows Rest,and much to his surprise, his own cousin did not seem to recognize him in the Watchmen uniform. He started to find the situation amusing, until she made mention of Starlen.  He attempted to disguise his voice when he spoke.

" Has the Deputy Constable been here recently?"

The dock workers looked from Deverick back to Almi and waited for her to speak once more.

"Ahhhh... You came to see the Deputy Constable then. Well he lives upstairs. He should be up as he deals with the Night Watch. The sun is setting no? Is there anything wrong? I am close to Garret Satrlen... and he likes me as much as anyone could."

The dock workers chuckled a bit at the last.

"If it is about my nephew hitting Rogio, I have many wittiness that will testify that that the Rhenne bastard started the fight and Deverick just finished it so you'd be wasting good time in that regard. So how may I help you... as you see I have a tavern to run."

 Deverick leaned over and spoke in a low tone in the tongue of the Barge Folk " Auntie, it be yer nephew. Take me somewhere so I ken shed meself o this Watchman garb."

 Dev then attempted to sound very official. "I need ta speak with ye..in private."

Her eyes widened a bit upon realizing it was indeed Deverick. Almi then called for her daughter to take over the bar. Amali hugged Deverick as she passed him and her mother.

"Twice in one day? Aten't we blessed by the fates!" she said as she reached the bar. "Okay! Everybody who be dry order up! We make no money with you all just propping up the bar."

Almi lead Dev back to her room where earlier she had read her cards. As she peered around him just to make sure they were not followed she spoke.

"Go on nephew. We are alone now. Why are you wearing such a costume? What have you done now? What is it you need to tell me?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:27, Fri 12 Aug 2016.

 As soon as Deverick was with his aunt in her back room, he started to divest himself of as much of the Watchman's uniform that modesty would allow, in front of his aunt. He tried to fill her in as he stripped.

" Me and me mates got ourselves involved in some high en mighties doins,auntie. There be some odd goings on er in th city,en we got caught up in it, when we hired on fer a job. Seems everyone be lookin ta hire me or wants ta talk ta me. I was up at the Citadel talkin ta th Constable,en she gave me this ta hep me get here without being followed. Seems the Deputy Constable wants ta "talk' ta me,but I spect he wants ta do more en talk."

 Almi listened with great interest while Dev explained his situation. When he was finished the Vetha gave him a wryly smile.

"There be an old Rhennee curse that says May you live in interesting times! I do not think Garret Starelen wishes to talk to you. He knows about you for sure... I brag about you nd your brothers oft enough. So if he wished to speak with you I would know about it I'm thinking. I sent Tess to learn more but she has yet to return. She told me you would not have her in your company because she is not a guilder. You know most of the Rhennee thieves, including your cousins nay be guild thieves, not that I would let them go adventuring anyway. My advice is to always choose loyalty over some guild card but it be your life.

She nodded her head upon hearing of the Constable "She is known as a fair and honest. If I were wagering I would put money on her. What can you tell me of this job and the people involved? Remember the reading... a man will bring you important news. Do you wish me to arrange a meeting with Deputy Constable Starlen? He may be able to shed some light on your predicament. He will keep quiet if I ask him."

 Deverick did not argueing with his beloved anut, but he did so anyway. "Auntie, I knows that me cousins in the Folk nay be o th Guild o Thieves. But they nay be city folk fer the most part, en besides, nay one expects em ta join th guild. But People like Tess be different, we av guilds in th city fer good reasons. it keeps things organized and makes the place run mostly smooth. If we let anyone do as they bloody please, and flaunt th guilds, things get all buggered up. But that nay be important right now."

 Deverick dropped his mail hauberk onto the floor and finished getting rid of the last of the Watchmen uniform. He had his own breeches and shirt wrapped up,so he started to dress himself in his own things.

" I promised nay ta reveal who it be, we rescued, but it be on o th high en mighties. It be someone on th Council,en there was a bloody Priestess of **** that had him prisoner in the slums. We beat er en her lick spittle lackeys. I turned er over ta the Watch station,but she died in th care o the Deputy Constable. The Constable seems, ta me way o thinkin, ta think him suspect. It seems that there be forces that may be trying ta replace Oligarghs on th Council, I dunno how,magic I spose. But me en me mates be in deep water fer sure, by the gods."

Almi held up a hand "You keep saying Deputy Constable. There are two Deverick the Tall. Deputy Starlen is in charge of the Night Watch. Now the other one is a nephew of the Mayor. And already nearly as rich from all the bribes he takes... at least tha's the word on the street. Garret has very little to do with him... I rhink it because he's an honest man. The Constable thinks highly of Starlen. What did she have to say about Gasgal? Do you wish to talk to Starlen? If so we must hurry! He'll be on his way to the Citadel soon."

" Negly in charge o the Old part o the city. He be th one that be lookin fer me. When the Constable tells me ta stay clear o this Negly, I will heed er counsel. As fer meetin with th other Deputy Constable, I av ta say nay, There be enough cooks in this er stew ta ma way o thinkin. Me and me mates jus hav ta lay low like til we can talk ta our patron agin, Which reminds me, I av ta go out o th city  ta th Sullen Selkie er soon. But time fer a pint er two afore we go."
This message was last edited by the player at 02:47, Sat 13 Aug 2016.

Almi just nodded.

"Taking care of our own business is the Rhennee way. Very well Deverick the Tall... blood of my blood, know that you will always have a place here. A safe place where you may rest your head. Now go and speak with your friends. They too have been worried about you."

Your Aunt then lead Dev back to the common room where the dockworkers, full into their cups, started singing an old sea chantey which they sometimes used when loading and unloading a ship or barge, just to pass the time during such back breaking work.

Upon entering the room itself, Blossom rose slowly and looked as if she had seen a ghost. Her mouth hung open for several heartbeats and then she ran to Dev, throwing herself into his arms!

"Oh Borcarsen! I did not know iff ya vere whole n' hale... or how vould vee get ya oout of dat fortress if da vatch vanted ta keep ya. Ovo said not ta voor-ey but I could not help it."

She hugged him hard and there was strength in Blossom's arms for sure. When she lifted her head from Dev's chest, the maiden's face was streaked with marks from fallen tears. Whatever she was about to say was drowned out by a roar from the table as Ovo rose from the that place with tankard in hand!

"See! I told ye the lad would be awright! Ye survived the meet'n with the watch did ye? Ye learn anything?"

The waved a hand and then beckoned Dev to join them at their table.

"Deverick's cousin!" the dwarf shouted at the bar!

Amali just laughed as she peered between two brawny dock workers "Aye! I know! More ale! Right? This one for my lunk o' ah cousin I suppose! Have patience and braid your beard will ya? Coming right up!"

Her wink and smile took the sting from her words and Dev could tell the youngest of Aimi's daughters had taken a liking of the ole dwarf.

"Come on! Let 'im breath ah bit eh Blossom? We've nay much time... n' let the lads has some talk n' drink'n ta do!"

Blossom gave him a final tight squeeze and whispered in his ear before letting go.

"Kum! Join us Borcarsen. There vill be time talk later yah?"

Deverick hugged hus aunt, then followed her out back into the Common room. He waved to his cousin, but before he could say anything, he was grabbed up in an Owl Bear hug by Blossom.
 " Umph!. Well, it be bloody nice ta see ye as well,Lass. Be not sad, Lass, I be whole en Hale.me word on that."
The Warrior nodded to the Dwarf Ovo. "Ye be  a pleasing sight ta these eyes, Master Dwarf."

Deverick joined them at table,and gladly accepted the tankard of ale from the hand of his cousin. After Dev took a long pull from the tanlard, he wiled his mouth free of foam.

"By the gods, that be good en needed." He said,then leaned in to whisper.

" The Constable heard about what we did and wanted ta know more. The Half-Orc we turned over ta th Watch died afore she could be made ta talk. The Constable seems ta want ta help,but I could only tell er so much. But it seems the Deputy Constable, th one that ad charge o the Half-Orc wants ta "talk' with me. She thinks he means me ill,so e may be part o those that took ye know who."

He took another long pull of the tankard, before he spoke again. " I told er we where hired ta rescue someone,and bout the council mess.she wanted me ta tell his nibs there be a secret meeting this very day. She then game me a watch uniform ta slip away and back er. I nay think I was followed." 

The dwarf took a long pull from his own tankard. With the foam dripping from his beard.

"I nay like it lad. Ah Deputy Constable ya say? That be ah might troublesome ta me. We have ta return ta the Selkie this eve but I be wonder'n about something... wot if ye know who ain't there lad? I mean Blossom saw him in the city. Ye don't think our charge be paly'n us fer fools do ya?"

Blossom nodded sudenly she was very serious "I saw him Borcarsen. I swear it! It vas him or his twin. But if dey be trying to take over da council dey may be using magic ta do it. My people hold no truck vith magic save dat kums from Kord. I say vee go n' see at da Selkie. If our man izz there den vee know da other vas ah impostor yah?"

 Deverick listened to his companions,as he drained the last of the ale. " Aye, we av ta go en see if his nibs still be at the Selkie. I av a message from the Constable fer em anyways. So we kill two Goblins with one arrow, eh.  Let us be off then."

 He got to his feet,and then paused. " I almost forgot, I av a gift compliments of er nibs up on th hill. Potions that will heal wounds,so I be told. I trust er,cause she be a Priest o Pelor." Deverick handed each of his companions a healing potion.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:15, Sun 14 Aug 2016.

Dev and companions drained their tankards and made ready to leave. Goodbyes were shouted from the bar from Dev's cousin Amali and not a few of the dock workers who most like would nay remember them upon the morrow. Out side the sky was dark... the stars and moons being hidden now and then as clouds raced by. To Dev if smelled and felt as though rain was imminent.

Out of the shadows of Moonshadow Lane and only a short stretch upon Dim Lane, the trio soon found themselves back on the strip which was as lively as ever. Revelers, thieves, whores, and those seeking entertainment or drink moved ... .at a snail's pace due to the crowd. Some folk just stood and talked, knots of people scattered all up and down the Strip in fact. Luckily for Deverick they left this busy thoroughfare for the busy but much less crowded Cargo Street.

They had not traveled far when they spied the Cargo Gate itself. As usual there was a standard patrol manning the gate and because it was dusk, the gate was closed. Here, Dev hoped either Ren's ring or the Constable's writ would get them through. The Sergeant in charge held up a beefy hand and said what all three had expected!

"Halt! Halt n' state yer business fer the gate be closed."

 Deverick showed the ring to the One that told them to halt. " I appreciate if ye would let us pass, good watchmen."

The Sergeant waved over one of his men-at-arms who held a lantern. Upon seeing the ring, his brows rose and his lips were pursed as if he was in thought. three heartbeats later he nodded his head.

"Looks ta be in order." he said with a wink and was turning to those men-at-arms at the gate, presumably to have it opened but a voice... a rather rough voice spoke from the shadows.

"Half ah moe Sergeant!" a lithe silent man said.

This man in dark leathers strode from the shadows with his dark grey cloak about his person and a hood over his head. The latter hid the features of his face.

"That's the man Sergeant! The one that the Deputy Constable wishes to question. If ya nay believe me just take a closer look at 'im."

The sergeant did just that, his eyes became narrow slits and he rubbed his stubbled chin.

"Aye! He fits the description awright but he has Ren's ring by the gods! Ren sits upon the council don't he?" he said puffing out his chest as if he wished to show his authority.

"Does 'e now? Mayhaps that be Ren's ring n' mayhaps not. Ren was kidnapped jus two nights ago. Who's ta say these aren't the buggers that done did it. Sides... The Deputy Constable be in charge o' the Watch n' you. Ren has nay ta do wi' that."

The watch sergeant appeared a bit confused now as his head whipped toward Dev!

"Wot ya got ta say ta that lad?" the sergeant said with his hands upon his hips. Dev could tell the watchman did not like the other fellow and was giving Dev his chance to explain.
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:52, Sun 14 Aug 2016.

 Deverick was taken aback at first, when the man stopped the Watch from letting them pass. But when the hooded figure accused the three of actually kidnapping Ren, Deverick started to become angry.

"If th ring nay be enough ta let us pass, then mayhap this will clear th matter up fer ye."

 Deverick reached into a belt pouch,and produced the document that the Constable had given him, that stated he was to be passed through all gates and not be hindered in any way. He offered it to the Sergeant,making sure the hooded one could not make a grab for it.

 When the Sergeant had the document," As ye can see, Sergeant, we be on someones business this night,en that someone ain't a beggar."

The Sergeant looked to the shadowy figure who had spoken grinning ear to ear!

"Hah! The lad has trumped yer Deputy wi' ah full blown Constable he has! This here be ah writ from Derider herself. It states he may pass any and all gates, and may nay be stopped or hindered by any patrol save if he... I'm assuming it means the lad here... be in ah act o' ah crime. I see no reason ta detain 'im."

He turned to Dev, handing him the writ once more "Take care o' that lad. It'll save yer arse afore this is over, Now then! Get on wi' yer business n' let me handle things on this side o' the gate."

As Deverick turned, the other man was already melting back into the shadows. The gate creaked open and the three companions went through. They had walked about a bow shot from the gate when they heard someone shout.

"That's the one that it Rogio at the Rest!" it was in the tongue of the barge folk... the Rhennee!

 Deverick thanked the Sergeant and made sure to return the Constable's pass to be tucked inside his right boot. They passed through the gate and beyond the walls of the city. The trio had just really started to walked to the Selkie when some shouted in Rhennee,and it was about Deverick.

" We might av trouble, keep yer blades loose." Said as Dev looked for the source of the potential trouble.

To The Sullen Selkie! thread!