Re: It's Pretty Dirty Business
Although Harry was harried by the grumpy shopkeeper, he made a hurried inspection of the maps on offer. Many seemed (even from his limited knowledge) somewhat inaccurate, and most were old. Certainly the carefully crafted parchments were more works of art than useful tools.
That said though, he did manage to find a place on the map that looked promising - one of a number that were marked with a simple tower symbol, it stood on the borders of Guril-Forsihe...except those borders didn't look right. Harry estimated the travel time as being less than a week, but more than a day. Not hugely useful, but a good starting point.
He then made a quick visit to each of the other sellers. Their maps (where they were willing to allow browsing!) bore out his suspicions. Although there were several towers marked, the one that had caught his eye seemed the most likely candidate.
One of the map sellers was a little more friendly, and explained that Heiroth was a friend of a friend. As far as he knew, he was only ever really in one of three places - at his daughter Erina's, in town (usually only on special occasions), or at 'his keep'. The seller was also pretty sure Heiroth hadn't been seen in town for some weeks...
Jos had no trouble finding passers-by willing to talk - it seemed common knowledge round here that the property was the home of House Ab'shal, who originated in Kar. Strange sorceries protected their house, it was whispered - but then, that could well be superstitious stereotyping, since Kar was known for its mages.
Diarmuid receieved some strange looks from the few people who passed by down this back route, but easily peered over the wall. Within the fairly small enclosure was a well-laid out garden. Features were made of a series of interlinked ponds, and some wooden awnings that were distinctly foreign in appearance. The flowers and plants bore odd flowers of colours predominantly dull browns and greens. No guards could be seen, but several windows overlooked the yard.