Trapper glares about the ash strewn ruins, eyeing the strange coin Herr has discovered. He seems deathly calm, but there's a sense of slight impatience in his voice when he speaks. "I think that we need to get goin'. Now. I have no clue as to  why you folks decide to go shoppin' and wanderin' about after an event such as this," His hand sweeps over the remains of the bar. "We woke up in a safe house that wasn't ours. We were left a mysterious note. I don't know about the rest of you, but I want ANSWERS, not frivolous toys or supplies we will not use." His voice never raises, but stays flat, monotone, and harsh. He turns his back, ready to ignore any rebuttal the party may offer. He's had enough, and his boots start taking him to the high district.
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:03, Thu 14 Aug 2014.

P.M.
[Private to Marcus: "...a safe house that wasn't ours." The phrase jolts through you like lightning. It's true that safe house is owned by your father, but they don't know that. The building is rarely used, a perfect place to retreat to. 'How'd he know?' A more dangerous question follows, 'how much does he know?']
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:03, Thu 14 Aug 2014.

For once Lady Jacqueline stares at Adwonus, stunned in her agreement with his statement about needing answers. And after a brief pause, she nods. A pitiful hand print of blood about the size of a child's palm catches her eye and makes her shudder, making her hug one elbow to her side. "You're right... we need answers."
This message was last edited by the player at 04:05, Sun 17 Aug 2014.

"Whatever answers you are searching for, I doubt they will be discovered in a pile of ash and misfortune." Taisiya spoke with melancholy in her voice as her eyes scanned over the ruins, merely staring at the devastation for a moment before turning away. "Unless, of course, you believe that those answers could survive the blazing fire without being burned either beyond recognition, or beyond existence." She attempted not to seem cold necessarily, simply looking at things as a matter of practicality.

Before Adwonus speaks in frustration I speak my observances of the remains of the inn. "It seems there is very little left of this place, sadly. I do not think anyone who stayed inside would have survived. I would not have wanted to left someone dying in here. I thought there was a cellar or basement behind the bar however. Maybe there is a slim chance something, or even someone survived in there, but was trapped." I move toward where the bar used to be, near where the corner of the building stood there. I poke about with my quarterstaff, searching for an entrance, being cautious to not fall into it myself.

{00:45, Today: Herr Johannes rolled 5 using 1d20. Search Check for Cellar.} {can I just search for 2 minutes and take a 20 on this? or shall I ask others to have a look quick?}

I look at Adwonus as he speaks. I am taken aback by his condescending comments, obviously born out of stress. I consider responding to him about this, yet refrain. Anger flares in me "It seems he is going to do what he will regardless... I speak quietly to myself. I think further without speaking it.

[Private to DM Ryan; Dwalin Grayhammer; Lady Jacqueline Raynelde; Marcus; Taisiya Northwood: '...whether or not it is best for the group. So be it, his folly contains its own rewards.' I speak aloud so the group can hear as he leaves. "I wonder why he is so eager to leave to see this man, even though it could be very dangerous. What happened while he walked without us? Perhaps he was offered some kind of reward. He seemed to be so allegiant to the mission as well... Such a change of heart so quickly? Perhaps the gleam of gold served to change it. I am wary of this."

I breathe out a sigh, calming myself. "Or perhaps he is just very impatient..." I pause.
    "We will all need to make a decision if we should follow him, did the letter speak of a time to arrive? On that note, who is carrying the letter right now?"

In the mean time, I still would like to search one last place before we leave.]

Shopping List PM:

 [Private to GM:
{Bedroll (1)
 Candle (10) + Case (wooden?) if available (at low cost)
 Chalk (5) + Case (wooden?) if available (at low cost)
 Crowbar (1)
 Fish hook (2) + (20ft?) Some fishing line, unless I can fassion it myself easily, nothing was said about fishing line so...
 Flask (3); metal please :)
 Grappling hook (1) (if the ends are sharp I will get some cork to put over them, lest I carry a giant sharp fish hook around lol
 Ink (1oz)(only if it is available for no more than 2 gp, otherwise I will try my hand     crafting it)
 Inkpen (1) (with a case or tube or something to protect tip I hope)
 Lamp, Common (1)
 Mug/Tankard (1) (Sturdy Metal if possible, otherwise Clay or Wood)
 Oil (12 pints) + a case for oil + caps for fuses I would fashion for the pints (if not overly expensive). Caps made of hard or soft leather?, wood?, metal?, ceramic? perhaps they are easier to make myself?
 Parchment (1 sheet)
 Belt pouch (2); with wooden sides or made of hard leather if possible, large enough for a few flasks hopefully
 Rope (hempen) (50ft)
 Sealing Wax (1/2 pound)
 Sack (4)
 Sewing Needle (1); does it come with thread?
 Signal Whistle
 Soap (½ lb)
 Water Skin (2) how big are they by the way? 1 gal? it is unspecified in book.
 + a Pitcher of common wine from lunch which I will put in the skins mixed with water, wine has a higher alcohol content and thus can be mixed to a thinner amount than beer, unless I can acquire rum and do the same thing at a cheaper rate. Just like sailors would do on old Man-o-wars, they called it grog.
 Whet stone (2) (1 Course, 1 Fine)

 Peasant's Outfit
 Traveler's Outfit

 Quarter staff (1)
 Sling (1) and Bullets (10)}
]
This message was last edited by the player at 05:53, Sun 17 Aug 2014.

"Your right...we need answers." says Lady Jacqueline to Adwonus. The pile of rubble has grown cold through the night, and only a few wisps of smoke from the embers remain; a haunting place to say the least. Herr Johannes scours through the rubble, motivated by a deep sense of obligation, but doesn't find anything {Search Check – Failed}. He recalls a cellar and with one last spark of hope, goes to where it'd most likely be. His hopes are instantly dashed as he sees the location buried under a heavy pile of debris; even if it remained intact, it'd take days to dig it out. Perhaps it'd be possible to access at a later time.

Determined, Adwonus storms northbound. Herr Johannes calls out to him, "Wait, there's still more we mu-..." Lady Jacqueline puts her hand on his shoulder and interrupts, "Actually Johannes, I think he's right." She seems very serious about this, "If we're going to find out what happened, we have to do this. We have to confront this Larlben." Herr Johannes takes one last look at the rubble then back at Lady Jacqueline, "Ok." The group hurriedly grabs their things and catches up with Adwonus whose mood is already beginning to ease with a new destination at hand. Adwonus was quite irritable when he'd lost his sense of purpose.

The party walks through familiar parts of the city. Beginning in the slums, they pass through a residential part of town, seeing the shops and people abound with life; they cross the twin bridges and gaze across the Bay of Andor in its morning splendor. Before long, they reach the Upper District, following directions on the letter in Lady Jacqueline's hands, which suddenly seem quite pointless as they approach the location. They certainly would've had no trouble finding the place.

The property is massive. An immense stone wall sections off a rather large expanse of land almost randomly in the center of the city. The estate is far larger than any neighboring building, perhaps even larger than the mansions of any noble. If security is a problem in the city of Herrod, the Larlben undoubtedly don't experience it; the extensive stone wall hides the entire property from view with the exception of a few spires that can be seen peaking over the edge. At the entrance stands a tall, metal gate – this place is a veritable fortress! No one lied when they said Larlbens were the wealthiest family in Herrod. The party sees the gate up ahead, now thoroughly curious as to what the rest of the property looks like. Lady Jacqueline speaks, "Perhaps we should knock?"

P.M.
[Private to Taisiya Northwood: The young girl walked along village path not far from the schoolhouse; she could see kids leaving the building as the day ended. She used to attend school...but not anymore. She looked inside a small bag in her hands and counted all the mushrooms she'd collected today from the woods. Suddenly, voices broke her concentration, "Hey look, it's her!" A wave of fear took over her. Glancing back, she saw three boys who'd just left the schoolhouse. Another boy called out tauntingly, "Yea, it's that strange girl. Come on, lets get her!" He picked up a dirt clod and threw it at the girl, landing against her white hair. She cried out, "No, stop!" It fell on deaf ears as all three began to throw dirt clods. She ran.

They chased her, and they were a lot faster. She dropped the mushrooms and sprinted with both hands free, anything to get away from them. Another dirt clod hit her, but this one had a stone in it. Striking the back of her head, she dropped to the ground; she grabbed at the dirt desperately trying to regain her balance and get away. She got on one foot before being forcefully pushed to the ground by two hands. "Go away!" she screamed from her back. "That white hair is so wierd!" said one of they boys. Another responded, "My dad says she's cursed." "Then she better get out of the village before she curses everyone." One of the boys kicked her in the side, a signal to the others to join. She tried to curl into a ball to protect herself, but their feet still hurt as they dug into her back; at least they couldn't see her cry this way.

The young girl made a desperate attempt to stand and got on both feet. One of the boys grabbed her by the arm, "She's trying to get away!" She put up her hands and screamed, "Get away from me!" There was a flash of light... The boy who grabbed her fell on the ground; the front of his shirt appeared burned away. His skin underneath was seared, as though he'd laid on top of a burning fire. He was dead. The other two boys stared in horror as the seriousness of it dawned on them. After a moment of shock, the two kids yelled and ran as fast as they could back to the village. She was going to be in trouble and had to get out of there, but she was too afraid to move. The young girl just stood there, staring at the palms of her hands, watching wisps of smoke rise from them. She was afraid of herself, and she couldn't run away from that.]

[Private to Lady Jacqueline Raynelde: Lady Jacqueline followed the group out the north side of the slums, ultimately toward the Upper District. She looked over at a street corner with a broken lamp post; the glass had been broken by a rock a long time ago. The city would normally replace it, but the lamp posts here were simply broken too often. After a while, the night-men just gave up. Lady Jacqueline recognized that street corner though. She used to beg there for her breakfast when she was small, not long after her mother died.

There wasn't anyone begging there now. The neighborhood had gotten a little worse since then, and less people with money chose to walk by. And beggars followed the money. Lady Jacqueline felt a wave of sadness, for it was a hard life growing up alone, especially for a little girl. She had to be quick to get away if anything looked dangerous, a swiftness that likely saved her life many times. She felt a little grateful, reflecting on how things have improved much for her these past few years; she had the money to purchase her own meals, nice clothes, a place to sleep. But it wasn't everything, not even close. She didn't have a family...]

[Private to Herr Johannes:
Although Herr Johannes couldn't find a well-priced ink nor fuse caps, he felt quite pleased with himself after a shopping spree. For the most part, his charisma got him some great deals! Now, he's ready for anything.

Reciept
Bedroll (1) = .1
Candle (10) + Wooden Case (1) = 1.2
Chalk (5) + Wooden Case (1) = .6
Crowbar (1) = 1.1
Fish hook (2) + Fishing Line (20ft) = .9
Flask, Metal (3) = .07
Grappling hook (1) = 1.5
Ink (1oz) = N/A at Price
Inkpen (1) = .08
Lamp, Common (1) =.1
Metal Mug = .05
Oil (12 pints) + Case (1) = 1.3
Fuse caps = N/A
Parchment (1) = 1.4
Pouch, Hard Leather (2) = 2.5
Rope, Hempen (50ft) = .6
Sealing Wax (1/2 pound) = .6
Sack (4) = .9
Sewing Needle (1) = Sewing Thread = .6
Signal Whistle (1) = 1.0
Soap (½ lb) = .23
Water Skin, Quart vol. (2) = 2.1
Bottle of Rum (1) = .1
Whet stone (2) (1 Course, 1 Fine) = .05
Peasant's Outfit = .1
Traveler's Outfit = .9
Quarter staff (1) = .01
Sling (1) and Bullets (10) =1.0

Total
19gp 9cp]
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:51, Sun 17 Aug 2014.

Lady Jacqueline's face hinted at dolefulness as she handed Herr Johannes the letter of directions, her eyes seeming far away. "Maybe we should knock," she mutters under her breath, trying to cheer everyone up; her thoughts were returning to the present. Her smile returned, half-heartedly.

[Private to GM: Lady Jacqueline neatly packs away her back pack with new toys; she's now ready for anything!

Reciept
Quarter Staff = 0.1
Sling = 0.0
Bullets x10= 1.0
Arrows x20 = 1.1
Leather Boots = 0.2
Backpack 2 = 4.0
Bedroll = 0.1
Caltrops x3 = 3.1
Case for map/scroll 1 = 0.9
Candle x10 = 0.1
Crowbar 1 = 1.5
Flint and Steel 1 = 0.8
Grappling Hook 1 = 0.8
Mug/Tankard Clay = 0.2
Oil (1 pint) x10 =1.0
Rations x4 = 2.0
Hard Leather Pouch x2 = 2.1
Sewing Needle x2 & Thread = 0.9
Water skin 1 = 1.2
Sheath for Rapier = 2.5
Signal Whistle = 0.7
Piton x10 = 0.6
Hammer x2 = 0.9
Whetstone = .02
Holly and Mistletoe = .01
Musical Instrument, Flute = 4.0
Bottle of Rum 1 = 0.1
Peasant Outfit = 0.1
Traveler's Outfit = 0.7

Total
35 gp 1 sp 3cp
How much you have left?
1gp 2sp 7cp]
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:26, Mon 18 Aug 2014.

The majority of the incredibly long walk through the city, Marcus is quiet, contemplating many things. He seems to know which direction the letter will lead them before it is read, an advantage of having lived among these streets for so long. Absently he muses at the old hideaways he would find as a child, in any back alley that suited his fancy at the time. But fond memories fade from his forethought quickly, his expression once again turning to one of deep reflection.

"Hah, guess we made it, finally. Here, I'll talk to the gate keeper." He states, deftly grabbing the note from Lady Jacqueline before she can hand it to Herr Johannes. He steps up to the guard station at the side of the gate, passing it to the man on-duty. "I believe we'll be on your list of guests today, if I'm not mistaken."

Lady Jacqueline bites back protest, her eyes wide and glaring at Marcus. At least he is bold enough to ask. But for him to-- she shakes her head, clearing any thoughts. She watches carefully, whilst keeping an eye out around them.

Surprise comes across my face as Marcus grabs the paper out from my near grasp. Protest comes to my mouth but does not escape when I realize that Marcus is deftly speaking to the gate keeper on our behalf. "Good idea Marcus, could I see that letter  please?" As we (presumably) enter the courtyard/lawn of Larlben I calmly look about as we enter looking for ways we might escape this manor if "negotiations" go sour, or if his offers are less then polite. I walk slowly, calmly, and gracefully, in a noble manner fitting the noble surroundings. I make an effort to take in every detail of the place and its layout that I can, hoping to make a mental map of the places I see. I seem to be impressed by the grandeur, but no more than in a passing way. "He has quite a place here." I say flatly. [Private to GM: {I steel my face lest any sadness comes to view from my mind and heart as I look upon a manor reminding me of what my family had

Also, upon some realization that caltrops were by the bag. I meant to buy 3 bags of caltrops and 2 trail rations.

I am putting this here so it is forum official, last purchase in post #31
is corrected to} 13gp 9cp]

Also...
 before we left the burned Inn. I speak upon deciding we have searched enough at this mournful place.
"We must remember to search this later, There may be clues to this mystery further hidden here, especially in this, what I expect to be, cellar, now buried beyond our reach."
     As we walk toward Larlben's house I break the silence and speak, trying to not let agitation come through my voice.
"Now on our way back, would someone please update me on what happened to you all while Lady Jacqueline and I were upstairs in that burning Inn. It must have been something because it has Adwonus really worked up here."
     After some reply I recall the girl who is traveling with us, of whom I still know not her name. "Miss, If you would like, you may travel with us if you would let us know more about you, and are not afraid of high adventure. I realize we know very little about each other and I do not wish you to endanger yourself anymore than you knowingly choose to. I will tell you more about who I am if you would do the pleasure of telling me more about yourself. In the meantime, we..." I pause, and whisper something to some of the group.

[Private to Adwonus Swillman; Dwalin Grayhammer; Lady Jacqueline Raynelde; Marcus: May I tell her this? Is that truthful without being endangeringly voiced or clear? { "... are a group of adventures who have found ourselves highly involved, by mistake or purpose in these factional conflicts in this city. Per example this letter. There is little beyond that I can tell you at this time however. I can tell you more about my self though if you wish." }]
This message was last edited by the player at 01:05, Mon 25 Aug 2014.

Taisiya took a quick shake of her head, dusting off the blank stare she had on her face and looked towards Herr Johannes when he began to speak to her. She waited in silence for him to finish his secretive conversation with the others. "There is not much to know about me, just a name, being Taisiya, and that I'm a fighter." She spoke non-chalantly, moving her gaze away afterwards. "I am not afraid of adventure. That's what most of my life has been up to this point after all.

She pondered for a moment and looked ahead, thinking silently to herself for a moment in contemplation. "At this point, regardless, I would believe it to be too late to turn back." She spoke with a bit more lightness in her tone.

[Private to Adwonus Swillman; DM Ryan; Herr Johannes; Lady Jacqueline Raynelde; Marcus: in response to Johannes's first question: "I don't have a problem with her joining us, it seems our previous mission has failed so we are now on our own." in response to Johannes final question. "Again, I don't care, our mission has failed and she witnessed the assassination of Biff. What secrets would we be hiding from her?" ]
[Private to DM Ryan; Herr Johannes;Lady Jacqueline Raynelde; Marcus; Taisiya Northwood:  in response to Johannes's second question. "Well me and adwonus slew another orc who was attacking him. Perhaps he was shaken up by killing one of his own kind?]
"Glad to meet another fighter m'lady. A group always has room for another fighter if you ask me!" Now then, let's get on with it. dwalin says rather loudly. It seems it took a while for the food and ale to kick in, but dwalin now seems energized
This message was last edited by the player at 01:52, Wed 20 Aug 2014.

{on our route to Larlben's Estate}

After a short pause and some talking with my other party members I reply to our new traveling companion. "Excuse me on that interruption there Miss. We are a group of adventures who have found ourselves highly involved, by mistake or purpose in these factional conflicts in this city. Per example this letter. There is little beyond that I can tell you at this time however. I can tell you more about my self though if you wish. I would be glad to have you travel with us, especially as you said, that you are a fighter. "
     "And... I am pleased very Much to make your acquaintance, Taisiya." I take her hand (assuming it was offered) and kneel bringing it to my forehead, Similar to a kiss on the hand, but without the kiss. I continue "Interesting name, where are you from?"
This message was last edited by the player at 02:35, Sun 24 Aug 2014.

Marcus returns with a proud look on his face as the gates open behind him. The party is almost dumbfounded at how easy that was, as though fate wasn't meant to be that kind. Warily, they walk through. The stone wall is just as daunting up close, surrounding the estate without lapse; a thief would dread to enter this place. As the gate closes behind them, at least several jaws drop in awe.[Private to Adwonus Swillman: Adwonus feels a shadow slip through the gates before they close. This blade-agent is good.] Flowers of every color grow in elaborate patterns before the manor, and exotic fruit trees envelope the courtyard edges, combining in the senses as a new fragrance altogether. Larlben Manor towers over the gardens, and numerous spires pierce the sky. A semi-circular staircase leads up to the front door, as though welcoming visitors with outstretched arms. Many kings would be envious of this home. The doors open for the party as they approach and a bald-headed steward waits to greet you.

"Master Larlben bids you welcome to his home. My name is Sonfred, the head steward. This way please." He casually waves his hand beckoning you inside, seemingly indifferent to your existence. The party enters an ornate reception hall, the walls of which are dotted with elegant tapestries and works of art. "He has quite a place here," Herr Johannes says flatly. Although Herr Johannes said this out of politeness more than anything, the steward responds jovially to the comment, as though it were a personal compliment to him, "Some of our paintings are over a hundred years old. This one here was painted by Jaid Nathanier in..." Herr Johannes almost immediately regrets speaking as the steward begins an extensive lecture on art history. Leaving the main hall through another set of doors, they enter the gallery, a room entirely dedicated to an immense marble staircase that spirals through each floor of the manor. Sonfred's lecture is cut off by a chuckling voice from atop the stair, "Ahem, I think they get the idea Sonfred." The stewerd promptly responds, "Yes sir." Standing above is a middle-aged man with dark brown hair and a short beard. Wearing a blue doublet and brown cape, his appearance is certainly aristocratic, but his accent is far from it. Instead his voice is  plain, prudent, but friendly. "Welcome. My name is Celus Larlben." [Private to Lady Jacqueline Raynelde: His eyes rest on you while speaking as if he were talking to you alone. To your surprise, his gaze is neither cold nor possessive, but rather... compassionate.]

[Private to Herr Johannes: One tapestry on the wall catches Herr Johannes's gaze, for it reminds him of another long ago...

Prince Johannes stood before his favorite tapestry. Mostly white with a battle scene in the center, the main figure was a hero fighting to his last breath, surrounded by enemies. Around the edges of the frame were small angels looking upon the hero, waiting to receive him when the long night finally passed. Prince Johannes often contemplated the meaning of this one. Sometimes he thought it meant that true heroes live and die gloriously, in the name of some higher purpose, or that the heavens welcome those who are righteous to the end. Yet in a way, the tapestry bothered him, because no matter what it actually meant, it still depicted the hero losing and getting killed. Prince Johannes made a mental note that if he ever had a tapestry made, it'd have a happier ending than this.

He continued to walk down the hall amidst the gilded decor. Some of the artwork had been here for generations; it was remarkable to think his ancestors walked down these same halls and perhaps even looked at that same tapestry. Prince Johannes heard the patter of footsteps as a servant approached him, "M'lord!" He was clearly excited about something, breathlessly trying to get it out. Prince Johannes replied, "Calm down, speak friend." The servant took a deep breath and spoke, "General Lasker and the army have returned from the battle!" Prince Johannes didn't say another word before he took off at a fast pace toward the barbican. Moving hastily up the stairs, he stepped onto the battlements where he could see the army returning to the city. Cheers and celebration echoed from a great crowd near the city gate, an indication they were victorious!

Prince Johannes belonged out there with the army, he knew this in his heart, but he'd been injured in an earlier battle. His hand traced the scar along the side of his stomach; it'd finished healing only just recently. He hated the idea of returning to the castle from the front, but his surgeons insisted on it; it was his duty to stay alive. Only after they said he'd likely die should the wound re-open from a strenuous act was he reluctantly persuaded. His soldiers understood what had happened, and there was no shame in it. He still hated it all the same. But he knew his place; he was the only heir to the kingdom, and there were responsibilities he'd must fulfill someday. As the soldiers reunited the with their loved ones below, knights and officers filed into the castle to declare their victory to king. Prince Johannes didn't plan on missing that. Wasting little time, he made his way to the throne room...]
[Private to Marcus: Home. Marcus knew every room, garden, and stone in Larlben Manor; he'd lived here for most of his life, a place of peaceful respite compared to the city around it. In the past, he'd asked his father why he chose to build the manor here, for they easily could have built it in the country, away from the crowded buildings and political havoc. His father told him this was their home, where he himself grew up, and that he couldn't help his home prosper from afar. Truly, his father cared about this city. Marcus wondered if his companions would see it, how they'll react to all this. It made him both excited and nervous.]

"Ocean cease your thunderous call,
Glisten for me one again."

[Private to Adwonus Swillman: Adwonus had felt the agent Pyrra sent following them, who was now under his command; a blade who won't argue or ask questions, who'll do as he's told and do it well. Good thing too, for he'd need all the help he can get here. Adwonus carefully studied the security around the Larlben Estate, which was daunting to say the least. Even he'd have a hard time breaking into this place. Assassination was going to be difficult. 'Why do I go through all this hardship?' Adwonus asked himself. 'Do I do it for Steyus?' He knew the answer was no; he didn't truly care what lord was in power or what nobles fought over. 'Then who do I do it for?' he demanded of himself. Clear as day, the answer was right there, and yet it surprised him. He did it for her.]
[Private to Dwalin Grayhammer: Dwalin glanced around the halls. The humans were in awe of the of the elaborate decorum, which filled Dwalin with near disgust. This was nothing compared to the wealth of Dormania, before the wars...

Golden statues lined the chamber, each a memorial to dwarven heroes of the past. Dwalin had read each tablet a hundred times and knew the names and their deeds by heart. There was Y'mir, who led the dwarves to Dormania after a great exodus from the north for reasons lost to time; Hobur, who fought off the invading Da'ak kingdom in the great war; Solin, who doubled the size of the empire. These were great figures for each and every dwarf to look up to.

Linus stepped beside Dwalin, one of his oldest friends, "You know, the words never change, and I know you know 'em by heart." His long blonde beard was newly braided into a single strand down his chest, and an axe was still slung on his back, a sign he'd just been training. "Yes," Dwalin replied, "but I like to remind myself." Linus chuckled, "Of what?" Dwalin turned to him, his expression quite grim, "My father returned from the war council today. They say there's a Goblin Horde approaching from the north." "I see..." Linus lost his smile. "I have much to live up to," Dwalin continued, "If we're to survive."]
[Private to Taisiya Northwood: Taisiya leaned over the railing of the ship and felt the ocean breeze. White hair fluttered in the wind as the hood of her cloak fell back. Many years had passed since the day that boy died. She'd left home without a word while her family was still in the field; if she had stayed, she would've brought trouble down on them all, and they didn't deserve that. Taisiya grew melancholy at the thought of never seeing them again. She missed her parents. She'd worked every kind of job since then, doing what she must to survive; only recently did she hear about the city of Herrod, and how anyone could build a new life there. They said it was the place for humble beginnings.

The ship rocked gracefully in the water, waves crashing against the side of the ship. Taisiya could feel the spray on her face and found it rather refreshing. Finally, a long-awaited voice bellowed out from the crow's nest, "Land ho!" She looked out toward the front of the ship and could see a sparkling light on the horizon, a star trapped between earth and sky. Sailors called the city the Jewel of Herrod, for it was said to shine like a gem from the sea; they were right. The isle of Perdane followed into view on the western horizon, a green strip along the world's edge. Before long, the gem grew into a castle, bridges, ships, and buildings, thousands of them! She'd never realized so many people could live in one place nor that cities of such grandeur existed. For the first time in years, Taisiya felt hope for her future. Perhaps she truly could build a life here...]

Adwonus stops in the room, checking his surroundings, looking for doors, windows, anything that could house a spy. Or perhaps an exit. As the doors close behind him, he relaxes his muscles, focusing, thinking about something, but the others do not know what.

[Private to DM Ryan: Ryan, how do I communicate with the assassin? I need him to unlock all the doors(including the gate) that we passed through. DM Ryan - He'll make first contact... when you're alone.]
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:20, Wed 20 Aug 2014.

Lady Jacqueline's face lights up at the beauty of the gardens. "Look at these--!" She darts over to a tree with blossoms. "These...[Private to DM Ryan: remind me of mother..]" The scent of the blossom gripped her in a trance. Another few plants catch her eye-- herbs that she knew could assist with healing. "You guys! You think he would send us with some of these? I wonder if he'd be willing to spare a few seeds.." Tea bushes and gardens! The whole sight she took in with wonder. Intently, she was listening to Sonfred to hear the many stories behind these many different plants and paintings. When interrupted by the headmaster, she stilled her thoughts and locked eyecontact with Larlben. Why.. She thought to herself silently, keeping her face relaxed to show no emotion. Why is he staring at me...?
This message was last edited by the player at 22:45, Wed 20 Aug 2014.

Celus Larlben's crisp voice resounds in the spacious hall as he speaks to the party from atop a marble stair, "Welcome to my home. Let us discuss matters informally and at ease over lunch this afternoon. The dining hall will be prepared within the hour. Until then, my servants have prepared some rooms for your use and comfort, to freshen up or rest." Herr Johannes begins a reply, "I'm not entirely sure we..." "...can stay too long," Celus Larlben finishes for him. "You're apprehensive about my hospitality. I understand. If it's any testament to my good intentions, you've been my guests for several days now, and I'd like to believe I've sheltered you well." The enigmatic statement confounds Herr Johannes, "What do you mean?" Larlben chuckles, "You have been using my safehouse after all. To be frank, I didn't realize you were using it until the other day. I'm surprised Marcus remembered it was there."

Eyes turn to Marcus, who feels uncomfortable as a flurry of emotions rise in the room. Celus Larlben continues, "But everything turned out well. I told Marcus to keep you safe, and here you are. You're in the safest place in the city and unharmed." Marcus speaks, "I'm afraid I almost failed. When Boar's Tusk burned, some of us nearly didn't make it." Celus Larlben replies with a comforting smile, "And yet you did. I couldn't ask more from you." He looks intently at Marcus, "You've done well. I'm proud of you." An unusual thing for an employer to say. Until Marcus responds, "Thank you.... father."

[Private to Adwonus Swillman: Adwonus looks around and sees many servant taking care of the household, but none look particularly threatening. Adwonus can't help but think, "No guards... how peculiar."]

Lady Jacqueline blankly threw glances between Larlben and Marcus, trying to find similarities between facial features. (07:06, Today: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 20 using 1d20+6. Spot Check.) After a long pause, she looks back at Herr Johannes with her eyebrows up a littler higher and her shoulders shrugging a little bit in confusion. [Private to DM Ryan: Something seemed odd about these two (Marcus and Larlben), and especially Marcus's familiarity on top of the look Larlben had cast at her. She tries to rack her memory, but nothing seems to come up but blurry furies of what happened out at sea.]

Adwonus pauses, and a look of mild discomfort passes over him, and he speaks. "I need to step out and use the head. Think you could tell me where it is?" his eyes fall on the wealthy master of the house, and then to Marcus.
 [Private to DM Ryan: I'm stepping out to meet the assassin.]
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:49, Sun 24 Aug 2014.

[Private to DM Ryan; Dwalin Grayhammer: "You all don't really know about the company you keep, do you?"] Taisiya whispered to Dwalin, looking between Marcus and Larlben

Marcus feels the collective stares of his comrades upon him, in various states of shock. He turns to them, giving them a shrug. "Sorry, I suppose I should re-introduce myself. I'm Marcus Larlben. I may have lied to you all about working for Riele. But I was sent to keep you safe." He pauses, seeing the general assembly looking back and forth between his father and himself, comparing their faces. "I'm told I take after my mother. At any rate, my father would like to have a word with you, so I would appreciate it if you would hear him out before relieving yourself." This last part is directed towards Adwonus. Finally he addresses his father. "And what's this about me forgetting? You and I both know that was the exact one I used for two weeks when I was ten." He spoke casually, but with an air of fondness, with the elder Larlben. He neglected, however, to mention that this two week excursion into the city proper had been the reason his father hired the quartermaster that had trained him to fight.

     I pull my head back slightly, while my eyes look to Marcus and Larlben and back, considering this new truth brough into the open, considering its implications as well as its veracity. I calmly think to myself of what has just been revealed. Not sure what to say I calmly wait for others to speak.
     Marcus adress, however, brings to mind some words whick I speak calmly with pause. "Well, I appreciate you telling us the truth, even if it was late, assuming this is the truth this time." I say flatly, while thinking 'Hmmm, things make more sense now.' "That does explain your mission....Aaannd, I am glad your mission was a sucess too." I give a small chuckle hoping to lighten the mood a little.
      [Private to Dwalin Grayhammer; Lady Jacqueline Raynelde; Martin Rolfe; Taisiya Northwood: I think to myself further, assessing this man. 'I have questions, but now is not the time to ask. I am sure Larlben will ... that is the Larlben Senior, will make a time to talk to us in a fittingly polite and decent manner. He does seem to be well mannered and well to do. He apparently did not want us dead, at least for now, so it seems we are safe for the time being.']

Eyes dart back and forth between Marcus and Celus in a state of disbelief. The two look incredibly similar, and Adwonus mentally rebukes himself for not seeing it before. "It makes sense now," Adwonus thinks to himself, "the only party member to not reveal his last name, sent by Rielle yet had no knowledge of the the task, and brought us to a safehouse that not even I knew of. Adwonus you fool..." [Private to Lady Jacqueline Raynelde: Lady Jacqueline gazes up at Celus and indeed he is the spitting image of Marcus, yet he lacks any familiarity whatsoever; truly, he's a stranger. Although Marcus looks similar in almost every way, there is something different. Lady Jacqueline continues to search for what (there must be one! she thinks), but she can't place her finger on it, despite the answer staring her in the face...]

Celus chuckles, "Oh yes, how could I forget that story Marcus; you must tell that at lunch! As for your relief Master Adwonus, there are baths in your quarters. My servants shall show you the way. As for me, I must check upon my wife. I trust you'll find your accommodations suitable, and my servants shall call upon you when the chef has finished his work." Celus walks up the stairs and disappears beyond the polished marble. After a few moments, Sonfred steps onto the first stair and speaks, "Follow me sirs." He leads the party upstairs where Celus had been not long ago and into a long hall. The woodwork of the hall is ornately carved, with detailed shapes and patterns decorating the border of each wall, each containing their own work of art. A lavish, dark red rug stretches the entire length of the hall.

"Just this way," says Sonfred as he turns left. Marcus remains at the top of the stair, "I'll catch up. I have my own room." He lightly laughs, trying to sound apologetic at the same time. "This way." Sonfred says with a little more impatience. [Private to Marcus: You have many options available: Speak to father, speak to mother, return to your quarters and collect new items, attempt to spy on the party, and more, if you are creative.] The party follows him another twenty feet down the hall were he abruptly turns around and faces them; waving his hands toward both sides of the hall, he says, "One room for the ladies, another for the gentlemen." His eyes study the group's attire with a repulsed expression, "There are also suitable clothes inside for you to (he scowls once more at the filthy tunics and armors) ...change into. As well as small gifts from the master of the house. You willed be called upon when lunch is served." He scowls once more, an apparently common expression of his, at Dwalin's axe, "I'll also mention no weapons are permitted in the dining hall, for guard and guest alike." Sonfred stiffly chuckles, "That is actually at the insistence of Madame Larlben, who demands she should not need to fear for her life during meals. Forgetful guards have received the most vicious of scoldings! I'll leave you to your chambers." Sonfred abruptly turns once more and walks away down the hall while the party opens their rooms.

They are astounded. Herr Johannes steps on the rug, his feet sinking softly into the dark red color. Three beds are arranged around each room, each with a bed frame seemingly hand-carved to match the carvings in the hall. In the men's room, one entire wall is painted with a beautiful landscape, the mountain ranges of Cathyria, from one end to the other in a panorama; in the ladies, there is another landscape painting, the coastline of Perdane with its cliffs and beaches. The furniture is just as exquisite with several polished tables and dressers. Within each room there is another door, leading to a bath, and a glass door leading to a small balcony; both balconies overlook one of the Larlben Estate gardens, from where the flower patterns can be fully enjoyed (In fact, the gardens were designed from the vantage point of the guest rooms). On top of the beds are small latched boxes, which contain gifts for everyone. Sure would be nice to live here...
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:41, Mon 25 Aug 2014.