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09:17, 26th April 2024 (GMT+0)

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim.

Posted by Game MasterFor group 0
Game Master
GM, 216 posts
Mon 3 Oct 2022
at 20:42
  • msg #1

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim



Middenheim is a revelation, the largest city any of you have ever seen. Four great stone causeways lead up the granite mountain that is the Fauschlag or Ulricsberg to the high walled citadel that covers the entire plateau at the summit. It is said that Middenheim has never fallen to force and looking up at the mighty fortress-city, still bearing the scars of the latest siege you can well believe it.

The Untergard refugees travel up the nearest causeway to the southernmost of the city gates. You notice other groups of tired looking civilians ahead of you ranging from individuals to refugee bands a dozen or more score. Many look wounded or hungry and most carrying possessions on their backs or pulled in cats. Clearly the people of Untergard are not alone in seeking safety in the City of the White Wolf.

Surprisingly the harried looking clerk at the causeway gate and his troop of halberdiers in blue and white hurries your group through. You suspect he might have made more of a fuss but the steely glare of Captain Schiller finishes any note of complaint or Sigmar help you a request for a bribe and he waves you on.

Inside the gate Untergarders quickly find they have been assigned rather cramped and squalid accommodations in the crowded Southgate-Ostwald district. Evidently these houses belonged to people who died in the siege (or who fled Middenheim before the siege began) and are soon the sight of arguments, fistfights and bawling children. You scarcely have time to think before you are sought out by Captain Schiller.

"Thank you for your help in getting here. We took our losses and I mourn them but we should have fared worse without you. Untergard shall be reclaimed in time gentleman and I shall look after our people but I release you from any further obligations. Ulric watch over you my friends."

The Captain's face is full of grim determination as he continues, "I'd advise you to find a suitable inn if you can soon. The houses we've been given here are cramped even now and I suspect there will be more refugees to come. But first I think you should return the Icon to the Temple of Sigmar. Father Dietrich was relying on you to do this for him. The Temple is The Freiburg district to the North East of the city. Here you better take this map."

Captain Schiller hands you a detailed map of the city.


OOC: See 'Game Map'.

It is late afternoon and you are technically free to do what you wish, whether to go to the temple, look for better accommodations, talk with NPCs or just explore!
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 97 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Tue 4 Oct 2022
at 07:36
  • msg #2

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"Good to be behind safe walls of a city for a change." Klinka said with a stretch and a hint of a smile on his face. As you approached the city, he felt more confident and you saw him watching with interest the architecture of the causeways, guardhouses and walls themselves.

He nodded to Captain Schiller, hoping people of Untergard will find safety in this place.

"I think we should follow Captain's advice and find a decent inn to eat, drink and rest. Then we can explore the place." he suggested.
Lukas Kohl
player, 135 posts
Human, Charcoal Burner
Wounds 2 / 10
Tue 4 Oct 2022
at 20:03
  • msg #3

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Lukas was exceptionally surprised, and relieved to have entered the city unmolested.  He was almost certain that they would be turned away, made to pay an exorbitant fee or even just generally made to feel unwelcome when they reached Middenheim.  That wasn't really the case here.  Despite the battered stone and signs of war, the causeway as they entered the giant walled mountain was the most majestic sight he had ever seen!  It must have taken the pinnacle of ingenuity to build a city like this and now, in awe of the City of the White Wolf he truly believed it was impregnable.

Inside the walls though he could see all was not well.  Clearly those living nearest to the walls had abandoned their homes, either to make way for defenders or following the ruthless bombardment of Chaotic siege engines.  The area was overcrowded and in disarray but it was true - the Graf had provided safety of sorts.  As he helped his former neighbours settle to their new home it would have been the easiest thing in the world to stay with them and start anew, but Captain Schiller had handed a map to his new friends and bade them farewell.  What was it to be Lukas?  Starting again or looking for more adventure?

He remembered Pieter, Gunther and Luciana and their quest for the magic sword.  He looked at the wizard, the halfling, the dwarf and the man from the North.  There promised adventure - and a likely early death.  He knew which way he was going...

"Let's find an inn and have a good rest and a bit of food.  Can anyone see one on this map?"  He stared intently, but he couldn't read and tried to make sense out of the symbols.

(OOC:  The Drowned Rat looks close and sounds like just the sort of place we'd be welcome in.  Shall we try there?)
Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 110 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:10/10
Tue 4 Oct 2022
at 21:11
  • msg #4

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

The large warrior slung his arquebus over his shoulder as the caravan entered the great city of Middenheim. This was the first time in many weeks both his weapons were carried on his back and he wasnt on the highest alert.

He was more than happy when he heard conversation about an inn and a place to rest. He didnt have much coin but hoped there was enough for a few days under a roof in a bed for some sort. With a big smile and a "DA!" he agreed to Lukas suggestion.
Pieter Marik
player, 108 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Tue 4 Oct 2022
at 21:14
  • msg #5

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Dust and shit and the unwashed masses. With these markers came unwelcome memories, pressinng in on Pieter like the flies and babble of the masses of displaced and war-torn refuges apparent to him as they entered Middenheim. Inwardly, he laughed: the City of the White Wolf? Perhaps more the city of the flea-bitten cur. His lips curled, but he smothered the betraying gesture and sought out Luitpold and his family once they had passed the gates, close enough to claim his fee for safe passage. Winding their way to the hovels the folk of Untergard had been housed in, his sharp eyes sought sign of profit or warning

But perhaps there was also opportunity, and he let Captain Schiller prattle on or a few moments, before taking hold of the map - ostensibly to hold for his fellows. At Harkrin and Lukas' suggestions, he nodded - wisely he hoped - and added his pfenning's worth, "We need to see Herr Hause to his house. Perhaps he might recommend somewhere... or his Guild put us up for a day or two as recompense for our valour? If not, at least put in a word for us..."
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 98 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Wed 5 Oct 2022
at 17:17
  • msg #6

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"Herr House to his house?" Klinka scratched his burnt beard trying to figure out what Pieter meant. "Who is Herr House anyway?"

OOC: Klinka wasn't paying too much attention to people we met... To him all people look and act the same. Even I had to go back to the previous thread to check who was Herr Hause;-)
Pieter Marik
player, 109 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Wed 5 Oct 2022
at 21:07
  • msg #7

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Pieter chuckled, somewhat more darkly then perhaps he had prior to these recent days, but explained nonetheless, "A silversmith, from the village we passed through. With the daughter. Bringing him here puts us in their favour, perhaps"
Game Master
GM, 222 posts
Wed 5 Oct 2022
at 22:24
  • msg #8

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

As you disscuss where to go and what to do Edgar speaks up. The Halfling messenger has been quiet since the confrontation, obviously lost in thought.

"I reckon we must part ways my friends," he says, offering a small hand to each of you, even the scarred dwarf and the rude Ostermarker. "I still have a job that calls me and I'll have to be on the road with Nibbles again. I hope our paths cross again some day. See to it that Father Dietrich's icon get delivered to the temple."

He turns and departs, wistfully.

Jocelin watches him go then speaks up in turn. "I've decided I better stay with the Untergard refugees for a while. They've lost Granny Moescher and I think I can help them, maybe not exactly how she did but I do have some knowdlege of my own. Good day gentlemen. It has been a pleasure and a privilege."

So saying the wizardess too takes her leave.
Pieter Marik
player, 111 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Thu 6 Oct 2022
at 08:50
  • msg #9

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Taking the preferred hand from Edgar, Pieter muttered a farewell, “clear roads and a full belly”. His nod to Jocelyn was both more muted and more polite, wary of the Winds of Magic she called after his encounter with the Queen of the Wood
Game Master
GM, 222 posts
Thu 6 Oct 2022
at 12:35
  • msg #10

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

You soon discover that the 'Southgate-Ostwald District' of Middenheim is really two quite distinct quarters. To the east of the Southgate itself lies the Southgate quarter with it's humble but clean houses and clean looking streets. It doesn't look rich by any means - indeed Lukas had seen several larger houses in Untergard which had been a prosperous small town - but it did look respectably working class from a distance.

Of course you have only seen it from a distance since the Untergarders had been settled across the Ostwaldstrasse - the wide main street leading from the gate - into Ostwald. If Southgate looked working class Ostwald looked class. This quarter was a warren of small yet cramped buildings and shops squashed together, dirty sloped alleyways that seemed to run off in all directions and more people than most of you had seen in your entire lives. Men (fewer and often old or showing the signs of war), women (more and usually trying to sell you something including on at least one corner themselves) and whole armies of children, crying, laughing and playing.

The sound was overpowering, the smell was overpowering. And yet for all the obvious signs of grief and poverty and violence - narrow faced, glazed eyed women in widow's black, beggars in rags and shady characters on every street - it was also intrinsically exciting. This was the big city where opportunity lay beyond a thousand doors or so they had said back in Untergard...



OOC: Where to first do you want to check out the Drowned Rat and see about accommodations and food (and maybe listen for rumours) or look for Luitpold House Hause and bring him to his hause house?

Also who is currently carrying the icon of Sigmar?
This message was last updated by the GM at 12:35, Thu 06 Oct 2022.
Pieter Marik
player, 112 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Thu 6 Oct 2022
at 22:54
  • msg #11

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Pieter spoke softly, his eyes flicking subtlely to some of the more obvious gang scrawls, "Remember not everyone in the city will seek the best for the Untegardians. There is plenty of opportunity here, but peril too"

"Watch your purses", he continued, before dismissing the signs, "Let us ind the inn, and decide our path from their"

If no-one else is carrying the icon, Pieter will
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 100 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Fri 7 Oct 2022
at 06:55
  • msg #12

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"Drowned Rat, eh?" Klinka muttered. "Let's check this place, hopefully it is less awful than its name. Mr House's hause will have to wait."
Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 111 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:10/10
Fri 7 Oct 2022
at 15:40
  • msg #13

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Fyodor chuckled as they entered into the Ostwald district. This was his kind of place and reminded him of parts of Kislev, the great city of his homeland.

He grinned "Rat drown. We drown." he says as he makes a gesture of drinking.
Lukas Kohl
player, 137 posts
Human, Charcoal Burner
Wounds 2 / 10
Fri 7 Oct 2022
at 20:50
  • msg #14

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Pieter's words made Lukas feel very wary in the big city.  All of a sudden he felt all hours on them and was convinced the children running in and out of the alleyways were certain to rob them.

"A drink first, yes," he agreed.  Although it would be good to get warm food and a decent ale inside him he was mindful they had Father Dietrich's relic on them and he wouldn't feel safe in the eyes of Sigmar until they had returned it to where it belonged.  They could also get that Herr Hause home safe too, although now they were in the city he wondered why he hadn't just wandered off home now.
Game Master
GM, 224 posts
Sat 8 Oct 2022
at 13:10
  • msg #15

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

The Drowned Rat turns out to be easy to find even in the maze that is the Ostwald. A tired looking watchman trying to deal with an arguing husband and wife points the way and after only two or three wrong turns you find yourselves in front of a tall but shabby half timber building with smudged windows and a thatch roof. Swinging above the doorway is an old wooden sign with a crude painting of a rat in a bucket.

From within the establishment you can hear gales of raucous laughter.

Stepping through the threshold you are greeted by a blast of a scent that makes even the streets outside smell like wildflowers - a rolling wave of ale fumes and body odour mixed with cheap perfume. As your eyes adjust to the darkness you see every eye in the tavern has turned in your direction.



There are about a dozen or so patrons, mostly human though you do see a couple of sly looking halflings playing dice at a corner table. The clientele all seem rough sorts; labourers, doxies and men whose exact job probably warrants the attention of the Watch. Not all of the gazes are hostile exactly, especially when the beholders note your weapons and tough appearance, but you definitely feel you've attracted attention.

The barkeep, a great stout man with a paunch an ogre would envy and sweat stained red hair plastered to his head hails you in a strong Middenheim accent: "Ev'n strangers, what can I get you?"
Pieter Marik
player, 113 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Sat 8 Oct 2022
at 14:21
  • msg #16

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Pieter took in the rough crowd and stepped across the threshold, directing his attention to the barkeep though his fingers made a hand sign of welcome he hoped the other clientele would recognise, “Ale, and a quiet chat, friend?”
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 101 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Sat 8 Oct 2022
at 17:26
  • msg #17

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"Ale. And perhaps something to eat. Something that doesn't have any parts of rat in it." Klinka added, looking around and nodding to the halflings in the corner. Perhaps this place was not so bad for an ex-convict to get a feeling of what's going on it the city's darker alleys.
Lukas Kohl
player, 138 posts
Human, Charcoal Burner
Wounds 2 / 10
Sat 8 Oct 2022
at 18:15
  • msg #18

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"The rat's the best bit!" laughed Lukas, trying to hide that he was at least a little intimidated by the rough looking types and the buxom women currently eying the group up.  He glanced over at Pieter and wondered if he was signalling something to the innkeeper that was beyond the rest of them.  He resolved to keep a close eye on his purse and also that he would avoid gaming with the halflings - it was a big assumption thinking they would all be like Edgar.

"Ale and food," Lukas agreed, accidentally catching the eye of a painted, yet tired looking woman and smiling back.  It possibly looked more like the grimace of a fool...
Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 112 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:10/10
Sun 9 Oct 2022
at 00:23
  • msg #19

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

The big Kislev didnt care about the attention he attracted. Closing in on 2m he was always a few heads taller than most patrons at the inns he had visited in his life. With a satisfying grunt he joined the others at the bar. He removed his large halberd and leaned it against the bar, making sure that anyone who would think about messing with his group of friends, would most likely be impaled by the weapon.

He pointed at Lukas and indicated he wanted the same order.
Game Master
GM, 226 posts
Sun 9 Oct 2022
at 12:26
  • msg #20

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

The barmkeep nods. "Four ales then and the house stew. Just the pie, rat is extra." He laughs at his wit, then leans in closer to speak with Pieter. "Eight pfennings for the ales, four for the pies, two more for the quiet chat stranger."

Fyodor's ostentatious handling of his halberd causes a stir amongst the other patrons but nobody makes a move to confront you.

Klinka finds his nod returned by the halflings. They turn to each other and whisper something in a conversation too low to here, then gesture at an empty stool at their table, obviously inviting the dwarf to join the game.

Lukas finds himself winked at by the doxy. She strolls over to greet him. Up close it was hard to tell how old she was beneath the makeup - she could have been twenty and had a very hard life or she could have been forty and aging like Bretonnian wine. "Afternoon soldier boy," she purrs, studying Lukas's many fresh bandages, before turning a pair of blue eyes surrounded by thick eyelashes to Lukas's face. "You 'ave been in the wars 'avent you?"

One of the local patrons - a spindly looking man with a scrubby beard - gives a half-drunken laugh as the wench paws Lukas: "Your eyes are going Gretchen! 'E looks as poor as as he does 'omely!"

OOC: Gossip Test for Pieter (assuming he pays!)

Anyone else who wants to try for Gossip can do so but you be prepared to pay 2p to buy a drink for whomever you are asking!

You can find a table to sit out in the corner of the tavern.
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 103 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Sun 9 Oct 2022
at 12:40
  • msg #21

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"Two more ales for my friends." Klinka said, then collected three tankards and a bowl of stew. "I'll join you later, fellas, after I check news with my halfling friends." he said and strolled to the corner table occupied by the shady non-humans.

"Greetings. Name's Klinka. I'm new in town. But not particularly inexperienced with the law." he said, sitting down and using some of his Prison Cant to convey the message. "Been a rather troubling march to get here. Might as well hear what's going on around. Humans trouble you a lot?"

No joy!

OOC: 14:38, Today: Harkrin 'Klinka' rolled 76 using 1d100.  Gossip (Fel 21).
Lukas Kohl
player, 140 posts
Human, Charcoal Burner
Wounds 3 / 10
Sun 9 Oct 2022
at 15:24
  • msg #22

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"Yes, I have been in the thick of it.  I've seen things you wouldn't believe out there beyond these walls," replied Lukas to the woman, who to be honest scared him a little with her outwardly show of affection.  "A drink for Gretchen too," Lukas added, sliding a few pennies on the bar top.  He gulped wondering if he needed the drink more than she did.  "Led a party of townsfolk to the safety of the walls.  Fought mutants, beastmen, witches too."  He instantly felt guilty bringing the death of his friend into proceedings so changed subject.  "You know, even saw elves in the forest.  Now they were something else..."

Lukas realised he was bragging rather clumsily when all he really wanted to be was polite and to try and gently escape the attentions of Gretchen.

"Lot of strangers in the city these days.  Bet you've a tale to tell about them passing through." he suggested hoping to steer the topic of conversation away from the tender loving care and bedside manner Gretchen may provide.

(OOC:  No luck! 16:13, Today: Lukas Kohl rolled 36 using 1d100.  Gossip Test (Fel 24).)
Pieter Marik
player, 115 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Sun 9 Oct 2022
at 21:10
  • msg #23

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Grudgingly paying over the coin for everyone, Pieter was sparse with his words with the barkeep - perhaps too sparse, "New to Middenheim, wanting a roof and some introductions ... having seen the scacity in the city"

22:03, Today: Pieter Marik rolled 85 using 1d100.  Gossip (Fel, 27).
Game Master
GM, 228 posts
Mon 10 Oct 2022
at 22:09
  • msg #24

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

The ale is dark and bitter and clearly not of the best quality, but then it has been a long journey through the wilds and it is still ale. Likewise the stew is far from the best but it is edible and warm and Klinka at least has had worse in gaol and down the mines.

(It also seems reassuringly rodent free.)

Unfortunately your conversational skills leave something to be desired. The barkeep shrugs and takes Pieter's coins in one grubby hand, swiping them off the counter. "Not sure I knows many folks around here stranger. Anyone in particular you'd like to be introduced to? As for rooms you'd be wanting an inn and I'm just a tavern keep. Course, a brass or two might shake up the old cobwebs there..."

The barmaid, passing by with a tray of ales rolls her eyes. "Don't try shaking down this one Johann, he looks tough. Look he has two swords."

The barkeep - apparently 'Johann' - sends an angry glare at the backside of his barmaid before turning his attention back to Pieter.

Over at the halflings table Klinka is having a little better luck. The two halflings look surprised at the dwarfs presumption but are grateful for the ale and they share a glance with each other when Klinka uses a little convict slang. A scruffy looking male and female they are so alike in age and appearance that they can only be brother and sister.

"Afternoon Klinka," the female says. "Thanks for the ale! Not many dwarfs come in here."

"Aye!" says her brother, "I thought you folks preferred your own taverns rather than manling ale? Well Middenheim treats us well enough I suppose. 'Course things are topsy turvy right now with the Graf and his army gone north to kick the barbarians back to Norsca so who knows what the morning with bring?"

The sister nods and grins. "What's your story Klinka? You aren't <i>just a pretty face right?"</i>

Over at Lukas's post Gretchen looks briefly interested when Lukas mentions Elves but it is clear her interest is rapidly waning as she starts glancing over at the silent but impressive figure of Fyodor. "Uh huh, that's great... who's your foreign friend?"
Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 114 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:10/10
Mon 10 Oct 2022
at 23:35
  • msg #25

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

The first mug of ale goes down in 6 seconds flat. He wipes his mouth and beard in one stroke before waving mug at the innkeeper for another round.
He then lazily turns around and leaning against the bar he takes in the full scene of the inn.

As the innkeeper brings the second mug Fyodor grabs it and cheers with Lukas "Da!War hero! Stopped bridge charge with body! Very brave. You like?" the big warrior explained to Gretchen.


He takes a big swig from the mug "Tell me city news, I tell you me."


OOC:  16:37, Today: Fyodor Fyodoreski rolled 5 using 1d100.  Fel - 32.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:37, Mon 10 Oct 2022.
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 104 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Tue 11 Oct 2022
at 07:29
  • msg #26

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Klinka drank and ate listening to the halflings. "Well, I suspected your kind also prefers their own inns. I don't know about ale, but I'm sure food there is much better." he said between spoons of the stew. "As you can see, some of my companions are umgi, so I followed them here." he concluded with a shrug.

"The story? Oh, a simple one. A good dwarf gets accused of some crime he didn't do, gets sent to the mines and pretty badly burnt there. Another good dwarf gets him out, but our ex-convicts finds himself trapped in some khazid in the middle of the elf-infested forest. We made it out, me and my companions." he explained with a smile. "Strange thing is... I always thought I'm very pretty for a dwarf. But that might be because I haven't seen myself in a mirror for decades."
Gretchen
NPC, 1 post
Tue 11 Oct 2022
at 22:07
  • msg #27

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Fyodor might not be famed for his conversational skills but he clearly has a certain something. Gretchen seems very taken with the towering Kislevite and is soon cooing over him, happily gossiping. She does occasionally seem to remember Lukas is sitting there and turns to include him in the conversation but she quickly turns her attention back to Fyodor and eager to hear him speak in turn.

"The Graf and the Emperor are out there with the army chasing the Chaos barbarians back home. A lot of the good men left with 'em which is why Middenheim is so dull," Gretchen pouts playfully at Fyodor, dancing her fingertips across his chest. "At least until you turned up. There are a lot of foreigners around these days - Wastelanders, Tileans, Bretonnians, even Arabyans and Southlanders. Mercenaries looking for a good fight and a full purse. Then there are the elves..."

She wrinkles her nose as if she's just smelled something bad. "Some of the girls go moony over the spike ears but I like real men. All you Kislevites are real men aren't you?"

Having reassured herself that Fyodor is in fact a real man Gretchen continues: "Anyway with ole Boris away his idiot cousin Baron Klaus and his bitch of a wife are regents but the person really in charge is Commander Schutzmann of the Watch. He's a stick in the mud who has never had a day of fun in his life but he's not crooked. Looking for recruits too, with so many of the young men away in the army."
Game Master
GM, 230 posts
Tue 11 Oct 2022
at 22:13
  • msg #28

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

The halflings sitting with Klinka look appropriately sad at his tragic tale. "A bad hand there," the male halfling says. "You looking for... honest... work?" He leaves a significant pause around the 'honest'.

His sister shoots him an annoyed look a dig in the ribs. "Uh, what my brother meant to say was do you fancy a game of dice?"
Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 115 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:10/10
Wed 12 Oct 2022
at 16:54
  • msg #29

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Fyodor leaned back against the bar. He had a mug of ale in his right hand while his left arm was around Gretchens waist. He smiles, nods and listens to what she has to say about the Graf and the Emperor's crusade.

"Who is Baron Klaus and wife? They like Commander?" the large man asks and gives Gretchens hip a gentle pat.
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 105 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Wed 12 Oct 2022
at 19:08
  • msg #30

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Klinka smirked. "Tell me, friend, do I look like someone who can get honest work? I seriously doubt it. But I'll stick with my umgi friends, maybe they have more luck."

Playing dumb maybe was not the best decision if he really wanted to get a job, but he didn't particularly trust the pair. If they believed he was dumb enough, perhaps they would be more talkative.

"A game of dice? Well, my fingers may not be as good as yours, but we can always try."
Lukas Kohl
player, 142 posts
Human, Charcoal Burner
Wounds 3 / 10
Wed 12 Oct 2022
at 20:30
  • msg #31

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Lukas breathed a rather large sigh of relief when Gretchen turned her attentions to Fyoder who, to be fair seemed to be quite taken with his new friend.  Lukas sat at the bar quietly nursing his drink, whilst listening closely, trying not to get drawn into the conversation.  It did seem that if they were stuck for coin there was going to be a shift in the Watch if they desired it.
Game Master
GM, 233 posts
Fri 14 Oct 2022
at 13:14
  • msg #32

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Unfortunately an illiterate tavern wench is probably not the best insight into high Middenheim politics. Still Gretchen tries: "I don't know 'ow they are, but old Schutzmann is a stickler and they say the Baron is a fop - and I've 'eard his wife used to be an actress. An actress and now she's lording it over us like Lady Muck!"

Over in the corner Klinka finds to his surprise that the bone dice have rolled in his favour. The halflings, looking none too happy slide a silver shilling across the table.

At which point the door to the Drowned Rat swings open and a group of rough looking men stride in. One of them - the biggest and ugliest - scowls as he looks directly at Fyodor and at Fyodor's arm wrapped around Gretchen's waist.

"Oi! What are you doin wif my girl?"
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 107 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Fri 14 Oct 2022
at 14:19
  • msg #33

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"Uh, terribly sorry for that, fellas." Klinka said, putting a coin back to his pouch. "Tell you what. I'm happy to part with that shilling should you ever come across... honest... work that might be suitable for an experienced dwarf like myself."

He wasn't sure whether the halflings would be good choice as friends, but keeping his options open was always the key to survival. Particularly in a large city like Middenheim. Who knows what happens with his fellow companions - especially that one was just about to be the cause of some nasty brawl. Klinka checked his chisel, patted his axe and sipped some more ale, watching the unfolding events.
Lukas Kohl
player, 143 posts
Human, Charcoal Burner
Wounds 3 / 10
Fri 14 Oct 2022
at 15:36
  • msg #34

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Lukas was still banged up badly from his encounter with the magical wolves so the last thing he needed was a fight.  He continued to sip his beer with his left hand as if the commotion was nothing to do with him.  His right hand slid surreptitiously to the handle of his hand axe, shielded from the men.

If they were sane then they'd think the better of starting a brawl with Fyodor, especially since he would have back up from the others, but right now Lukas cared not for being a human shield.
Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 116 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:10/10
Fri 14 Oct 2022
at 15:54
  • msg #35

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Fyodor listened careful to what Gretchen and was about to answer when he was rudely interrupted by what could only be the local bully. He finished his beer and gave them empty mug to Gretchen and gently moved her aside "Hold.".

He raised his hands in front of him in a defensive position "Have beer and talk. New to town. Have questions." he explained in his broken Reikspiel.
Pieter Marik
player, 116 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Sun 16 Oct 2022
at 11:42
  • msg #36

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Pieter slid the barkeep a pair of pfennigs to try and jog his memory, half paying attention to the others and the ebb and flow of conversation. His ears pricked when someone mentioned elves, but he dismissed it as fanciful muttering such was the five, eying the barkeep for answers to his questions

Go for Intimidation if being charming isn’t working

At the entrance of the ruffians, his eyes narrowed, however. His leaned over-casually against the bar, loosening up in an obvious manner
Game Master
GM, 238 posts
Sun 16 Oct 2022
at 21:15
  • msg #37

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

The coins Pieter slides across the countertop disappear as if by magic. "Thank you stranger," Johann the tavern keeper says, suddenly jovial. His small shrewd eyes look at Pieter, obviously studying the man. "If yer after a room sir I'd advise the Blue Boar in Southgate. Not good enough for nobs or elfs but good enough for 'umble folk. If yer after a job..." He glances around and lowers his voice: "There's a new gang in the city calling 'emselves the the Iron Triangle, though word of a friend of a friend is they go by another name by 'emselves. Ain't worked with 'em myself and I've 'eard they can be nasty enough but they pay very well or so the story goes and a tough lot like you and yer friends could go far. They meet in the Broken Moon in Altmarket."

Raising his voice again Johann continues: "Course if slitting throats and breaking legs 'ain't your fancy you could look for bodyguard work for some lord or lady. Or if you 'ain't got the brains Ulric gave a Snotling but you want to work legit there's always the Watch."

Over at the table Klinka had chosen the halfling brother and sister look at each other thoughtfully, nod, then in turn offer grubby palms across the table for Klinka to shake.
"I'm Greta, this is my brother Hans," the female pipes up. "We'll keep you in mind dwarf. You can find us here most days."

Everyone in the tavern falls silent as attention turns to the door frame. A very tall, powerfully built man enters with an auburn moustache, a pale face crisscrossed with ancient scars and cold grey eyes. From his clothing and the swords slung across his back he is either a soldier or recently was one. At his back and obviously his friends (or lackeys may be a fairer word) are four oafish looking men, smaller and less commanding than the first but each looking like they've seen a fight.

"Leave 'him alone Rolf," Gretchen hisses at tall man. "You don't own me!"

'Rolf' strides into the tavern proper, stomping towards the counter and Fyodor and Gretchen. He makes no move to draw a weapon but he is flexing his massive fists. "Right, I bet you was just 'talkin'. Let's see 'ow well you do it wifout teef!"






OOC: Okay, everyone roll initiative (Agility + 1d10). If you beat 41 you can describe what you are doing straight away.

Be specific whether you are drawing or brandishing a weapon or not.
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:04, Mon 17 Oct 2022.
Lukas Kohl
player, 145 posts
Human, Charcoal Burner
Wounds 3 / 10
Sun 16 Oct 2022
at 21:24
  • msg #38

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Inwardly, Lukas rolled his eyes.  He really didn't want to get into a fight over nothing in here....

(OOC: 22:22, Today: Lukas Kohl rolled 40 using 1d10+35.  Initiative Roll (Agility 35).)
Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 118 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:10/10
Mon 17 Oct 2022
at 00:07
  • msg #39

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Fyodor stood his full height as Rolf approaches eyeing the man and his goons. His berdysh is easily within reach but he doesn't immediately go for it. Instead he watches the man make the first move.

Ooc:

16:54, Today: Fyodor Fyodoreski rolled 45 using 1d10+36.  Initiative
Dodge blow and then punch him if he attacks unarmed. If weapons are drawn I will use the berdysh


Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 109 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Mon 17 Oct 2022
at 06:07
  • msg #40

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

08:06, Today: Harkrin 'Klinka' rolled 31 using 1d10+24.  Initiative.
Pieter Marik
player, 119 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Tue 18 Oct 2022
at 06:25
  • msg #41

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Pieter nodded to the barkeep and stepped forward, past the Kislevite to confront Rolf. His feet slipped on a puddle of beer as he moved, and he instinctively turned the movement into a wide swing past the ruffian

07:21, Today: Pieter Marik rolled 43 using 1d10+39.  Initiative

07:22, Today: Pieter Marik rolled 89 using 1d100.  Unarmed

That could have gone better
Game Master
GM, 239 posts
Tue 18 Oct 2022
at 09:45
  • msg #42

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Rolf seems to hesitate very slightly as Fyodor stands his ground. Obviously he isn't used to tough looking adventurer types standing up to him.

After a flicker of done he moves forward again... and Pieter gets in the way, taking a swing at the thug that misses by a mile. Rolf's ugly mug is filled with astonishment but his instincts take over at he sends a punch of his own - which hits.

Pieter feels an iron hard fist thump into his right arm. No bones break but the outlaw can feel he'll have an all mighty bruise in the morning and it's clear a better connecting blow could seriously hurt.

A drunken cheer goes up from the four low lifes who'd accompanied Rolf in. "Go get 'im Rolf!"

Rolf himself looks invigorated by his punch (and glad he isn't fighting the towering Kislevite.) "This wasn't yer problem boyo but you made it yours. Let's settle this!"

He holds up his fists in a boxing stance as the tavern looks on and already you can hear the first bets being made...


OOC: 10:32, Today: Game Master, for the NPC Rolf, rolled 3 using 1d10+1.  Damage.

10:31, Today: Game Master, for the NPC Rolf, rolled 12 using 1d100.  Unarmed vs 43.

Pieter takes no damage in Wounds but he does sport a fresh bruise on the right arm!
This message was last edited by the GM at 11:00, Tue 18 Oct 2022.
Pieter Marik
player, 120 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Tue 18 Oct 2022
at 15:41
  • msg #43

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Laughing off the blow, Pieter continues to throw wild haymakers in Rolf’s direction, though he tries to cover it with bravado taunting

Another miss
Lukas Kohl
player, 146 posts
Human, Charcoal Burner
Wounds 3 / 10
Tue 18 Oct 2022
at 20:02
  • msg #44

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

'Oh, Ulric's beard...' muttered Lukas under his breath.  He still kept a surreptitious grip on his hand axe and really hoped Pieter would floor the bully in the bar.  Hopefully, a bit of barroom fisticuffs would burn out quickly, but for now Lukas watched.  If anyone else got involved or it looked like Pieter was hurt he'd jump in, but until then he merely lamented why he always found himself in these situations...
Game Master
GM, 241 posts
Thu 20 Oct 2022
at 10:40
  • msg #45

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

As Rolf winds up his fist for another punch at Pieter Fyodor intervenes, stepping forward to catch the Middenheimer's fist in his hand. It is clear that the towering Kislevite intended to block Rolf's blow and grapple him or even throw a jab himself.

Unfortunately it doesn't quite work out that way and Rolf realises what was happening. Diverting his punch he avoids Fyodor's block, even if he fails to land a blow on Pieter.

And the entire tavern gasps. What had been a one on one fight between Pieter and Rolf has suddenly opened up to all comers. Which means...

"Get 'im and 'is friends boys!" Rolf roars to his followers at the tavern door.

"No weapons you fools!" Johann yells quickly even as the fists start flying...



OOC: Okay thanks to Fyodor's well meaning intervention we are looking at a full scale tavern brawl. :)

I'm going to count Fyodor's intervention in the fight as his action for Round One so the next person who can act is Pieter.

Round One

Initiative Order:

Fyodor
Pieter
Rolf
Lukas
Rolf's Thugs
Klinka

If any of the 'Neutral' NPCS join the fight I'll roll for their initiative too.

So far no one has drawn a weapon. There are various ale mugs, candlesticks and platters of food around if anyone wants to try using an improvised one.

Pieter Marik
player, 121 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Thu 20 Oct 2022
at 11:23
  • msg #46

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Pieter threw several punches and kicks in Rolf’s direction, comically missing as the thug ducked under Fyodor’s intervention
This message was last edited by the player at 13:58, Thu 20 Oct 2022.
Lukas Kohl
player, 147 posts
Human, Charcoal Burner
Wounds 3 / 10
Thu 20 Oct 2022
at 20:05
  • msg #47

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Lukas remained firmly rooted in his seat gripping his hand axe.  He'd nearly died twice in the last week or so trying to do what was right.  A bar room brawl over a wench simply wasn't worth dying for.

A punch in the stomach could easily open up his wounds and see him bleed out on the floor.  He had far more to live for...
Game Master
GM, 242 posts
Fri 21 Oct 2022
at 23:38
  • msg #48

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Rolf throws a right hook at Pieter, clipping the Ostermarker on the shoulder. The leather jerkin Pieter wears absorbs some of the blow but it still a real thump sends the outlaw back a half step.

OOC: Pieter lose 2 Wounds

Over near the entrance one of Rolf's goons moves into the fray, throwing a haymaker ay at Fyodor. As much by luck as by design his fist connects solidly, bruising one of Fyodor's ribs and winding him.

OOC: Thug #2 moves to attack Fyodor. Fyodor loses 4 Wounds

One of the other thugs grabs a tankard of ale from a table and throws it at Lukas. Fortunately the heavy pewter tankard falls well short, clattering against the counter and splattering Gretchen with cheap ale. The tavern wench screams in rage and launches herself at the thug fighting Fyodor, making a serious effort to claw the man's eyes out with her garishly painted finger nails.

OOC: Thug #1 throws a tankard at Lukas and misses. Gretchen leaps to attack Thug #2 and technically hits but causes no damage.

By now everyone in the tavern is yelling and either looking for a way to fight, a place to hide or an escape route...

OOC: Klinka is up.
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 112 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Sun 23 Oct 2022
at 05:59
  • msg #49

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Klinka took the last sip of his ale and looked apologetically at his Halfling companions. "Excuse me for a moment, fellas." he said and moved carefully between chairs, tables and people to support Lukas. The guy had been unlucky enough in their previous fights. Klinka, of course, also had not been at his best, but either because of ale, or because of his experience with fights like these, he managed to land a solid blow at the thug pestering Lukas.


07:56, Today: Harkrin 'Klinka' rolled 8 using 1d10.  proper dmg.
07:56, Today: Harkrin 'Klinka' rolled 26 using 1d100.  dmg.
22:15, Yesterday: Harkrin 'Klinka' rolled 12 using 1d100.  Attack Thug#1 (WS65).
Lukas Kohl
player, 148 posts
Human, Charcoal Burner
Wounds 3 / 10
Sun 23 Oct 2022
at 06:06
  • msg #50

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Lukas, having ducked his head at the tankard whistling past him has quite had enough.  As soon as the lovely Gretchen joins the fray, presumably attacking the goon of her current / former/ future lover Lukas glances to the door.  During the melee he makes a dart for the door.  There are far more nicer places to grab a drink in Middenheim surely....
Game Master
GM, 245 posts
Sun 23 Oct 2022
at 23:27
  • msg #51

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

The thug Klinka had attacked had been concentrating on his's boss's fight and hadn't realised what was happening until a punch from an angry dwarf flattened his nose. The Middenheimer swayed on his feet and spat blood but managed to keep standing, as did the brute next to him. Both men now glared at Klinka ready for the next round.

Behind them the last member of Rolf's entourage hovers incertainly, clearly torn between running after Lukas or directly assisting his mates.

Seeing discretion as the better part of valour Lukas bolts for the tavern door, skirting the startled barmaid.





OOC:

Round Two

Initiative Order:

Fyodor (down 4 Wounds)
Pieter (down 2 Wounds)
Gretchen
Rolf
Lukas
Rolf's Thugs
  • Thug #1 (down 5 Wounds)
  • Thug #2
  • Thug #3
  • Thug #4

Klinka

Fyodor is up!

Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 120 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:6/10
Mon 24 Oct 2022
at 03:21
  • msg #52

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Fyodor is too slow to dodge the thugs punch. He grins at the hit and grins to the thug before taking a wild swing only to miss him.

OOC


20:18, Today: Fyodor Fyodoreski rolled 59 using 1d100.  Dodge blow - 36.

20:18, Today: Fyodor Fyodoreski rolled 56 using 1d100.  Attack - 41.



Pieter Marik
player, 122 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Mon 24 Oct 2022
at 22:52
  • msg #53

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Grunting as Rolf's blow connects, Pieter swung one in response thought it connected weakly. He laughed, enoying himself immensely as the bar fight spilled out of control
Game Master
GM, 246 posts
Tue 25 Oct 2022
at 10:00
  • msg #54

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Gretchen proves herself a surprisingly scrappy fighter, kicking, scratching at slapping at her opponent. Unfortunately the tavern wench doesn't quite have the strength to cause lasting damage but she is very distracting to the thug she's attacking.

Someone not distracted is Rolf who throws a fist like a battering ram at Pieter's nose that would definitely have broken it multiple places if the Ostermark outlaw hadn't ducked at the last moment. Instinct was a useful thing in a brawl!

OOC:
10:51, Today: Game Master, on behalf of Gretchen, rolled 2 using 1d10-2.  Damage.

10:50, Today: Game Master, on behalf of Gretchen, rolled 17 using 1d100.  Unarmed vs  36 (WS 26 + 10 for outnumbering).

10:52, Today: Game Master, for the NPC Rolf, rolled 9 using 1d10+1.  Damage.

10:51, Today: Game Master, for the NPC Rolf, rolled 29 using 1d100.  Unarmed vs. 43.

10:58, Today: Game Master, on behalf of Pieter Marik, rolled 24 using 1d100.  Dodge Blow vs 39.
Pieter Marik
player, 124 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Sat 29 Oct 2022
at 14:30
  • msg #55

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Ducking up the ruffian's blow, Pieter smirked as he threw a heavy blow of his own into the man's stomach


15:27, Today: Pieter Marik rolled 25 using 1d100.  Unarmed.
15:28, Today: Pieter Marik rolled 5 using 1d10-1.  Damage, reroll.

Assuming that I can use Fortune Points to reroll Damage, else it's a 1 unmodified by their Toughness, so nothing
Lukas Kohl
player, 150 posts
Human, Charcoal Burner
Wounds 3 / 10
Sat 29 Oct 2022
at 16:48
  • msg #56

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Lukas, hoping to avoid the melee continues his flight out of inn and hopes to observe the bloodied bodies falling out from a safe distance
Game Master
GM, 249 posts
Tue 1 Nov 2022
at 02:16
  • msg #57

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Rolf winces in pain but appears unbowed by Pieter's jab, snarling defiance.

The brute beside him throws a wild swing at Gretchen, clearly tiring of her kicks, scratches and bites. The tavern wench turns her head at the last moment to avoid taking it all on her cheekbone but she still gives a yelp at will probably be a bruise tomorrow.

Elsewhere the two thugs facing Klinka gang up on the dwarf ex-convict. One lands a light blow that Klinka easily shakes off but the other socks him in the jaw.

The last thug has noticed Lukas departing and visibly hesitates between going after the fleeing outlander and helping his mates. Caught in indecision he does neither.




03:14, Today: Game Master, on behalf of Harkrin 'Klinka', rolled 87 using 1d100.  Dodge Blow vs 25.

22:31, Yesterday: Game Master, for the NPC Thug 4, rolled 2 using 1d10-1.  Damage.

22:31, Yesterday: Game Master, for the NPC Thug 4, rolled 12 using 1d100.  Unarmed vs 41.

22:30, Yesterday: Game Master, for the NPC Thug 1, rolled 7 using 1d10-1.  Damage.

22:30, Yesterday: Game Master, for the NPC Thug 1, rolled 38 using 1d100.  Unarmed vs 41.

22:29, Yesterday: Game Master, for the NPC Thug 2, rolled 3 using 1d10-1.  Damage.

22:28, Yesterday: Game Master, for the NPC Thug 2, rolled 1 using 1d100.  Unarmed vs 31

Summary:

Klinka takes 1 Wound
Gretchen takes 1 Wound

Klinka is up!
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 116 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Tue 1 Nov 2022
at 07:19
  • msg #58

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Annoyed that he was facing two enemies, even though it was not his fight, Klinka took the blow, spat and delivered his own furious assault at the already wounded man.

08:13, Today: Harkrin 'Klinka' rolled 4 using 1d10.  Fury dmg.
08:13, Today: Harkrin 'Klinka' rolled 32 using 1d100.  Grungni's fury! (WS65).
08:09, Today: Harkrin 'Klinka' rolled 10 using 1d10.  Dmg.
08:09, Today: Harkrin 'Klinka' rolled 33 using 1d100.  Attack Thug1 (WS65).

For obvious reasons, Klinka does not want to kill the thug. So if possible, he will pull back the punch it he knew it would result of anything more than breaking the man's neck rather than a few ribs...

Also, with the first attack being a half-action, can Klinka enter Parry Stance for the next half-action? I think he's not good at dodging at all...
Game Master
GM, 252 posts
Sat 5 Nov 2022
at 11:45
  • msg #59

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Klinka's jab sends his opponent hurling back into the table behind him, hitting the wood in an explosion of ale tankards and half finished bowls of stew. The thug lies groaning softly in a heap, alive but obviously not getting up soon.

Across the tavern there is an audible intake of breath as one of the combatants goes down and the wagering picks up speed. Maybe Rolf's boys have met their match after all...




OOC:

Round Three

Initiative Order:

Fyodor (down 4 Wounds)
Pieter (down 2 Wounds)
Gretchen (down 1 Wound)
Rolf (down 1 Wound)
Lukas (fled!)
Rolf's Thugs
  • Thug #1 (ko-d!)
  • Thug #2
  • Thug #3
  • Thug #4

Klinka (dwon 3 Wounds)

Fyodor is up!

This message was last edited by the GM at 21:09, Sat 05 Nov 2022.
Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 122 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:6/10
Sat 5 Nov 2022
at 20:30
  • msg #60

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Fyodor nodded at the dwarf and was clearly impressed by Klinkas combat prowess. He got so riled up that he thought he had caught his opponent off guard but his punch missed wide. Cursing at himself he moved in to a defensive position.


OOC:

3:11, Today: Fyodor Fyodoreski rolled 6 using 1d100.  Dodge blow 36.

13:10, Today: Fyodor Fyodoreski rolled 48 using 1d100.  Attack 41 - FP.

13:09, Today: Fyodor Fyodoreski rolled 83 using 1d100.  Attack 41



Pieter Marik
player, 127 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Sun 6 Nov 2022
at 12:54
  • msg #61

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Continuing to face off to Rolf, Pieter stepped forward and delivered a flurry of swift blows, forcing him back but only landing one with any force

12:51, Today: Pieter Marik rolled 27 using 1d100.  Unarmed.
12:51, Today: Pieter Marik rolled 1 using 1d10-1.  Damage.

12:51, Today: Pieter Marik rolled 78 using 1d100.  Unarmed
12:51, Today: Pieter Marik rolled 74 using 1d100.  Unarmed, Reroll.

12:51, Today: Pieter Marik rolled 54 using 1d100.  Dodge Blow.

Game Master
GM, 254 posts
Tue 8 Nov 2022
at 21:12
  • msg #62

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

For the first time since the brawl proper began a flicker of doubt crosses Rolf's rough hewn features. It is only for a second but Fyodor knows he saw it.

The brute throws a haymaker at the Kislevite but the punch goes wide. Beside him the red haired thug facing Pieter and Gretchen snarls at the woman as she scratches, kicks and bites and shoves her back hard.

Across the room the suddenly nervous bully boy facing Klinka jabs at the dwarf. The blow actually lands but the hardened ex-con barely feels it .

The last thug standing hesitates at joining his mate attacking Klinka but clearly decides the dwarf is too tough a customer. Instead he grabs a half eaten bowl of stew from a table and hurls it at Pieter. The bowl (and stew) miss by miles shattering off the counter and bringing an angry roar from the tavern keep.

OOC:
13:34, Today: Game Master, for the NPC Thug 3, rolled 55 using 1d100.  Thrown tankard vs bowl vs 31.

13:32, Today: Game Master, for the NPC Thug 4, rolled 2 using 1d10-1.  Damage.

13:32, Today: Game Master, for the NPC Thug 4, rolled 7 using 1d100.  Unarmed vs 31.

13:31, Today: Game Master, for the NPC Thug 2, rolled 4 using 1d10-1.  Damage.

13:31, Today: Game Master, for the NPC Thug 2, rolled 3 using 1d100.  Unarmed vs 31.

13:30, Today: Game Master, for the NPC Rolf, rolled 95 using 1d100.  Unarmed vs. 43.

13:29, Today: Game Master, on behalf of Gretchen, rolled 1 using 1d10-2.  Damage.

13:28, Today: Game Master, on behalf of Gretchen, rolled 16 using 1d100.  Unarmed vs  36 (WS 26 + 10 for outnumbering).
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 119 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Wed 9 Nov 2022
at 07:12
  • msg #63

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

The punch was meant to hit Klinka's jaw, but instead it landed on his skull. And the dwarf's skull was hard as stone he used to break in the mines. The thug winced and took a step back - it was all that saved him from Klink's fist which missed him by less than an inch.

Growling with disappointment, Klinka put his fists back up, ready to parry any following attacks.

08:09, Today: Harkrin 'Klinka' rolled 68 using 1d100.  Attack (WS65).
Game Master
GM, 255 posts
Wed 9 Nov 2022
at 11:11
  • msg #64

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Despite the flurry of punches and cutlery thrown no one goes down this round and the brawl continues relatively evenly matched.



OOC:

Round Four

Initiative Order:

Fyodor (down 4 Wounds)
Pieter (down 2 Wounds)
Gretchen (down 1 Wound)
Rolf (down 1 Wound)
Lukas (fled!)
Rolf's Thugs
  • Thug #1 (ko-d!)
  • Thug #2
  • Thug #3
  • Thug #4



Fyodor is up!

Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 123 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:6/10
Wed 9 Nov 2022
at 15:37
  • msg #65

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Fyodor swung at Rolf and grazed the man.


OOC: This is getting ridiculous

08:36, Today: Fyodor Fyodoreski rolled 37 using 1d100.  Dodge Blow - 36.

08:35, Today: Fyodor Fyodoreski rolled 1 using 1d10-1.  Damage.

08:34, Today: Fyodor Fyodoreski rolled 9 using 1d100.  Attack 41 - FP.

08:34, Today: Fyodor Fyodoreski rolled 73 using 1d100.  Attack 41.


Pieter Marik
player, 128 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Wed 9 Nov 2022
at 16:35
  • msg #66

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Eyes narrowing as the scrappy brawl begins to spill out to anger the barkeep, Pieter throws two punches at Rolf in quick succession, the second landing heavily

16:32, Today: Pieter Marik rolled 70 using 1d100.  Unarmed.
16:32, Today: Pieter Marik rolled 2 using 1d100.  Unarmed.
16:33, Today: Pieter Marik rolled 8 using 1d10-1.
16:33, Today: Pieter Marik rolled 27 using 1d100.  Dodge Blow.

Game Master
GM, 257 posts
Wed 9 Nov 2022
at 22:38
  • msg #67

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Pieter's punch clock's Rolf in the jaw and the entire tavern gasps as the big man stumbles back a step. His shakes his head and spits out a bloody tooth, still on his feet but only just.

At that moment before anyone can react further the door to the inn opens and a scruffy urchin of ten or twelve bursts in. "'Ere listen up! The dwarven brewery near the Southgate is paying a silver piece to anyone strong enough to stand up after drinking Thorgrim's Thunderhammer, a new ale they are taste testing. They only want gen'ine reviews from 'ardy but 'onest men!"

Rolf's goons look at each other, at the boy and then at Rolf. '"We better 'urry boss," one says.

Rolf spits out another broken tooth and - noticeably swaying - stands up. "Aye," he gives one last glowering look at Fyodor, Pieter and Klinka then staggers towards the door with his men. "You three better not be 'ere when get back!"

As he leaves Pieter finds Gretchen tugging at his sleeve. "If you and your friends know what's good for you you should leave. Rolf has a mean streak and he'll be back with a lot more of his mates." The tavern wench hesitates a moment and then smiles. "Watching you clock Rolf was the most fun I've had in a long time. You or your friends ever need a friend on the streets you can find me most evenings on Prinzessin Louise Straße."

She makes the sign of the crossed fingers with her left hand and winks.
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:29, Thu 10 Nov 2022.
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 121 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Thu 10 Nov 2022
at 07:47
  • msg #68

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"I really should teach you a thing or two about throwing punches, lads." Klinka said with a grin. "But we better listen to you friend there. I'd hate to have to pay for all that damage they've done." he added quietly, looking around.
This message was last edited by the player at 11:50, Thu 10 Nov 2022.
Lukas Kohl
player, 153 posts
Human, Charcoal Burner
Wounds 3 / 10
Thu 10 Nov 2022
at 08:10
  • msg #69

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Lukas walked back into 'The Drowned Rat' with a rather satisfied smile on his face and rubbed his hands together, grateful he wasn't in a puddle of his own blood.

"Well, that seems to be all sorted then," he added, looking around the trashed inn.  Those who could see out of both eyes still may have noticed that Lukas was not alone and was accompanied by one rather better dressed than he.

"This is Herr Eshbern, says he knows our posh wizard friend Jocelin."
Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 125 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:6/10
Thu 10 Nov 2022
at 20:44
  • msg #70

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"You run purple Goblin Lover." Fyodor yelled at Rolf as he the thug and his group left the tavern.

He turned to grab his drink from the bar but saw the mug had been knocked over in the heat of the battle. Not being a man of much money he picked up the mug and wiped as much of the spilt back into the mug.

Satisfied with his job he takes a big swig before suggesting to the others they should go check out that brewery competition.
Pieter Marik
player, 133 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Thu 10 Nov 2022
at 21:09
  • msg #71

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"You know I'll take you up on that, miss", smiled Pieter, throwing her a cocky salute - two slightly crossed fingers to his brow. With that he turned and laughed at Klinka's offer, "Best you do, my friend"

"And glad you're back", he continued, as Luka re-entered the room, "Any truth in that rumour of ale, or was that you using your brains?"

His eyes took in the stranger, a wizard if his eyes read right, "Herr Eshbern. Best we find another tavern and you and young Lukas tell us how you met"
Lukas Kohl
player, 157 posts
Human, Charcoal Burner
Wounds 3 / 10
Thu 10 Nov 2022
at 22:04
  • msg #72

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"It's amazing what a few brass pennies can buy in this town," laughed Lukas.  "None of you are badly hurt?" he asked, feeling a little self-conscious in the post-brawl inn (not that it was anything to do with him).  The idea of moving on seemed quite a good idea...
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 123 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Fri 11 Nov 2022
at 06:54
  • msg #73

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"Are you local, Herr Eshbern? Perhaps you can suggest a respectable inn where people don't start a day by throwing punches at you? I'd very much like to have some well-deserved rest from fighting. At least today." Klinka said, offering his hand to the man. When he noticed the hand was all bloodied, he smiled apologetically and wiped it clean in his shirt before shaking man's hand. "They call me Klinka."
Magnus Eshbern
player, 3 posts
Fri 11 Nov 2022
at 22:00
  • msg #74

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Congratulating Lukas on his ingenious plan, Magnus calmly waited in the shadows outside the inn until some of the brawlers exited the inn and headed towards Southgate, before walking in after Lukas, tapping the floor with his staff to announce his presence.

"I am not, I only arrived a few weeks ago but I do believe there are inns a plenty with better customers," Magnus replied to Klinka with a ghost of a smile, taking the proffered hand in his own in a firm handshake before going on, "I strongly suggest we find just such an inn as soon as possible before the upstanding folk who left to Southgate find out no one will be paying them money to drink ale."

Gazing at the others in crew that had accompanied Jocelin, he tried to glance inconspicuously at their equipment, to see if he could glimpse the sword Jocelin had mentioned. "Jocelin is well, aiding the gate guard in their duties. She told me about you and wishes you well," he added.
Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 126 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:6/10
Fri 11 Nov 2022
at 23:10
  • msg #75

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Fyodor look disappointed at the new comer. "No free ale and silver?" he asked in his Kislevite heavy accent.
Game Master
GM, 266 posts
Sun 13 Nov 2022
at 00:33
  • msg #76

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

You mutually decide to leave 'The Drowned Rat' before further trouble arrives, whether in the form of a returning Rolf and his boys, the Watch coming to investigate or the increasingly angry looking tavern keep decide he might demand payment for the damages after all.

Outside the air is cooling and early evening is setting in with the beginnings of a fog settling in. As you walk down the street Fyodor - still inconsolable about the non-existence of free ale or silver - nearly squashes a diminutive halfling hot pie seller trying to sell his wares to the diminishing crowds (the enterprising seller still tries to tempt you with his pies - "hot and fresh just like your grandam used to make!")

Magnus is certain he has heard of a delightful inn that stocks excellent Bretonnian brandy and is justly famed for it's roast Hochland duck and friendly flaxen haired and buxom barmaid. He's even heard his fellows at the Guild speak lovingly of it. Alas he can't quite recall where in the city it lies and after a couple of false turns gives up and leads the others towards the Westgate-Sudgarten district where he is reasonably certain there are affordable inns.

'The Drowned Rat' faces west onto Kupferstrasse, one of the wider and better lit streets in the Southgate district. True enough to the street name you do see several coppersmiths, their businesses marked with hanging signs in various ingenious shapes. The buildings here, mostly half timber and with thatched roofs seem a little larger and more prosperous, but are still narrow and high in the Middenheim style. This is still Southgate but a better end and after a walk you reach an east-west street, cross it and enter the Westgate-Sudgarten district.

A large city inn stands across the road with a jaunty painted wooden sign of an unsmiling man in a belled hat beneath which are painted the letter 'The Sullen Jester'.



As you enter you are greeted by an elderly woman not much taller than Klinka with iron grey hair in a bun and an expression easily as grim as the jester on the sign out front.

"You'll be wanting rooms I suppose?" she asks, looking at each of you in turn in case you are miscreants or Sigmarites. "Common room is five pence a head, private room is ten shillings. No pets, no elves, no girls after dark, no loud noises. Baths and food are extra. This is a proper Ulric-fearing establishment and we have standards to keep."
Pieter Marik
player, 134 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Sun 13 Nov 2022
at 16:14
  • msg #77

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"Private room, mother", requests Pieter respectfully, thinking of the bundled blade on his back, "And food, stew or pie if you have some?"

Sighing inwardly to himself, he adds after a moment's thought, "And a bath, if its hot?"

If they're to find work in this town, he's smart enough to know that appearances matter.

He forces his smile wider, "Well recommended, Master Eshbern"
This message was last edited by the player at 22:49, Sun 13 Nov 2022.
Lukas Kohl
player, 159 posts
Human, Charcoal Burner
Wounds 3 / 10
Sun 13 Nov 2022
at 22:29
  • msg #78

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

If Lukas was worried about the persistent threat (and actuality) of violence in 'The Drowned Rat', he felt altogether more threatened in 'The Sullen Jester' which felt altogether more upmarket.  Indeed, walking in the inn and facing the stern looking proprietor he felt for the first time in his life that he may just, well, stink a bit.

"A bath and hot food would be most welcome Frau," he said very respectfully to the fierce matron, "This is much nicer than the first place we went into," he continued honestly, "a good Ulric fearing establishment is just what we need."  How the god of battle, wolves and winter would view his earlier trickery was one he didn't wish to contemplate right now.
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 125 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Mon 14 Nov 2022
at 19:20
  • msg #79

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"Is the common room clean?" Klinka inquired scratching himself. "I wonder if bath would be a good option... But then if there are no elves in the premises, I can safely assume it is clean, eh?" he said to himself, looking around the room. If there was another Rolf around, it was better to find him before he finds them.
Game Master
GM, 268 posts
Tue 15 Nov 2022
at 13:12
  • msg #80

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

The matron sniffs. "Of course the common room is clean Herr Dwarf. I am Frau Speight and I assure you there is not a speck of grime in this establishment. There are several gentlemen staying there at present but they should not disturb you."

She looks over the rest of you. "Well I suppose it will have to be three... no better make that five baths and I shall I summon Henryk about the food and Magda about laying out a private room. That young lady from Praag is occupying one of the private rooms but we still have a couple available."
Pieter Marik
player, 135 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Tue 15 Nov 2022
at 18:14
  • msg #81

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

“Praag “, enquired Pieter, as politely as he might muster. He had heard the tales of Kislevite women, of course. Fierce, one and all
Magnus Eshbern
player, 5 posts
Tue 15 Nov 2022
at 21:33
  • msg #82

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Magnus entered The Sullen Jester, still disappointed in himself for not remembering the other inn with the buxom barmaid. Still, this was a better establishment, and clean. Pieter at least seemed to like it.

"A private room for me as well," he replied to the matron, following the others into the commons. "And some stew and fresh bread," he added.

As they moved to take seats he surreptitiously tried to see if any of the companions were wearing any special seeming sword, anything that might appear like Jocelin had remarked.

This message was last edited by the player at 21:34, Tue 15 Nov 2022.
Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 129 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:6/10
Tue 15 Nov 2022
at 22:11
  • msg #83

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

When Fyodor heard the name of one of the cities from his homeland he smiled broadly. It had been a long time since he had seen another Kislevite and was now curious who the lady was.

"Praag lady. What her name?" he asked Frau Speight as he dug through his almost empty purse. He dug out enough coin for a night in the common room, food and ale and put it on the counter. Then he grabbed a few more and with big grin said "Bath too"
Game Master
GM, 269 posts
Tue 15 Nov 2022
at 23:21
  • msg #84

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"Anastasia Tereskovna, an opera singer or so I gather," Frau Speight says, her frosty tone thawing slightly with the pride of having such a glamorous guest in her inn. Her blue eyes narrow. "I hope you do not intend any funny business with the lady?"

Funny business or no she seems willing to book two private rooms and disappears into the depths of the inn. You can here her voice echoing through the building "Magda, where are you girl, I need you! Henryk the kitchen! Henryk now!"

A little later you find yourselves in the inn's common room seated at long wooden tables. A large fire blazes in a hearth at one end and a pallid, red haired serving girl (presumably 'Magda') serves you portions of hot vegetable and mutton stew and loaves of bread along with mugs of beer.

"I'll run your baths now," the girl timidly says before disappearing upstairs.

Despite the coldness of the proprietoress you can't deny it is a fairly comfortable inn and the food is nourishing. The décor is old fashioned and decidedly northern, all dark wood, stuff board heads and portraits of men and women looking very pious and very serious.

Of the famed Anastasia Tereskovna there is no sign but there is a party of burghers at one of the other tables deep in private conversation. They nod to acknowledge your presence but don't seem inclined to come over.
Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 131 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:6/10
Thu 17 Nov 2022
at 01:21
  • msg #85

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Fyodor finished his meal faster than anyone thought possible and was waving at Frau Speight for another round of beer.

The large warrior had placed himself at the table so he could watch the anyone coming down the stairs, hoping that Anastasia would be arriving soon.


He pointed at a piece of the bread in front of Lukas "You eat?" he asked.
Magnus Eshbern
player, 6 posts
Thu 17 Nov 2022
at 06:09
  • msg #86

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Magnus was seated close enough to the fire to feel the waves of heat at his back. The mage knew if he chose to use his Wytch Sight he would see tendrils of Aqshy swirling about in the fire.

He still had his hood up to shroud his features from a casual glance, but it did not interfere with eating his stew which admittedly was quite good.

Magnus felt he had heard of Anastasia, perhaps from one of his instructors or from any one of the magisters gossiping among themselves in the College, but could not exactly place the reference. Whatever the case, he hoped she would remain in her room; they had been through enough excitement for one night he felt.

"So Jocelin tells me you have an interesting sword in your possession," he said finally, gazing at the others once the inn staff, including Magda, were out of sight. "It is frankly the reason I sought you out, and I would very much like to inspect it."
ooc: Making a test to recall anything he may have heard about Anastasia.

Common Knowledge (The Empire): 60


Lukas Kohl
player, 161 posts
Human, Charcoal Burner
Wounds 3 / 10
Thu 17 Nov 2022
at 11:33
  • msg #87

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"Yes, I'm hungry," replied Lukas to Fyoder who was eyeing up his bread.  Lukas scooped his hot stew with the bread and the warm food, roaring fire and relative peace softened him.

He gently waved to Frau Speight and asked her, "I am sure your establishment receives many compliments, but this is the best stew I have had in months."  This wasn't an attempt to ingratiate, more a simple matter of fact.  "Please could we buy another couple of loaves for the table?"  Lukas felt a bit sorry for the Kislevite - a man that size was possibly always hungry.

Lukas looked pointedly at Magnus when he inquired about a sword.  Knowing the cost of how it was obtained he wasn't going to bring it up when it wasn't really his place to.
Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 132 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:6/10
Thu 17 Nov 2022
at 15:47
  • msg #88

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"Please more ale." the large warrior chimed in and added to the order.

He then also turned his attention to the newcomer and his question about a magical sword.
Pieter Marik
player, 137 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Thu 17 Nov 2022
at 16:31
  • msg #89

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Pieter focuses on his stew to begin with, somewhat wary of his manners having spent so much time on the road and in the woods. He sips at his ale, examining the room and the newcomer among them, eyes narrowing when the question of the blade comes up.

He puts his spoon down carefully, exhaling softly and slowly. In his mind's eye he can still see the sprays of blood and hear the screams of his companions as they died. Upon his back, nestled between his shoulders and wrapped carefully in clothes and tags, the sends a shiver down his spine.

"You share the same skills as Jocelin, Master Eshbern", he began, circling the topic, "You think it might be more than it appears?"

He shook his head, "Here is not the place"
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 127 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Thu 17 Nov 2022
at 17:55
  • msg #90

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"Careful. It's a cursed elven blade. May as well make your ears pointy." Klinka warned Magnus over a tankard of ale. The wooden tables looked very nice indeed, and the dwarf played with his chisel undecided whether he should carve some thanks and best wishes to the owners of this fine establishment.
Game Master
GM, 272 posts
Fri 18 Nov 2022
at 01:43
  • msg #91

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

While the discussion about the blade continues a slender blonde woman in furs and jewellery enters the common room and takes a table near the door. She is accompanied by a short, stout man with an impressive moustache.

Due to the angle she is seated none of you get a good look at her face, though you do notice she is wearing a fine fox stole, elegant gown and earrings. The woman and the man proceed to have a conversation... or rather he talks to her in a hushed voice while she does not reply.

Magda arrives to bring more beer and extra loaves. Frau Speight has left to busy herself at the newcomer's table.
Pieter Marik
player, 140 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Fri 18 Nov 2022
at 20:08
  • msg #92

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Laughing lightly at Klinka's humour, Pieter cast his eyes at woman taking a seat near the door, then redirected conversation, "We will need to rustle up some coin if we're planning to stay here more than a few nights..."

He shrugged and supped at his ale, "And I might have a connection with Ranald's folk in town, if folks are interested in that kind of work"
Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 137 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:6/10
Fri 18 Nov 2022
at 21:38
  • msg #93

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"I'll be back" the large warrior said and got up from the table of friends. He grabbed one of the full mugs and walked over to the table with the lady in  dressed in furs and the burly man.

He addresses them in what must be Kislevarian.

[Language unknown: "Allpreateman thess lesse oerll peasic. U mo ta ionpre'werdin m notad waison il er Llecpe'urwh. Ecmi dime fi ain Tic Ratrutverlar Lesyinstanotine"]
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 131 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Fri 18 Nov 2022
at 21:42
  • msg #94

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"You won't be laughing when you turn into a pointy-eared monstrosity." Klinka added, and put his chisel back into his pocket. It was completely unclear whether we was joking or not, but his dislike towards elves was beyond any doubt. "I have to see someone tomorrow morning. It might be a dwarf business, but maybe not. If not, I won't mind getting you to help me. I hope it will bring us some coin to survive in these troubled times."

Glancing at the Kislevite, the dwarf scratched his damaged beard. "Let's keep an eye on him. I hope he's not getting into another fight, is he?"
Magnus Eshbern
player, 7 posts
Fri 18 Nov 2022
at 22:00
  • msg #95

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Despite himself, Magnus visibly perked up when Pieter spoke, but when he shook his head Magnus nodded. "Agreed, later then in my room upstairs," he replied.

Going back to his stew, Magnus finished his meal, enjoying the taste of the meat. He washed it down with a drink of water, not being a fan of hard drinks. Few wizards were, given the chaos that could be unleashed by a drunk mage.

The appearance of the slender woman made Magnus turn his head and glance at her. "The lady Anastasia has deigned to enter the commons I see," he murmured softly to the others.

When Fyodor stood and walked over to the lady and her burly companion, Magnus watched with interest, wondering what would happen.
Anastasia Tereskovna
NPC, 1 post
Fri 18 Nov 2022
at 22:42
  • msg #96

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Walking over to the table Fyodor finally gets a look at Anastasia Tereskovna and it takes his breath away.

Golden hair frames an angelic face, the smooth creamy complexion of which is offset by the slightest hint of rose in her exquisite cheekbones. Two large winter sky-blue eyes, fringed by long lashes look back at the Kislevite soldier. A perfect nose above endlessly kissable lips. Her long and slender neck guarded by a gold and ruby necklace that might buy a kingdom.

She is - by far - the most beautiful woman Fyodor or any of you have ever seen in your lives.



She turn her head and smiles vaguely at Fyodor but does not speak. Instead her companion, the impressively moustached man clears his throat and opens his mouth.

[Language unknown: "Ta ouout ng olie reding Romnc Foomsshe Butsomounmanpro,"] the man says, voice almost as cold as his expression. [Language unknown: "Thund thi esntat laron, hat evevortic ettrca ect as ureardpre ckfiai all eauerspro fi trtiicitwi no fo stte iouestcon. N ecmang er anyearforsom."] He sniffs, looks Fyodor up and down and adds in Reikspiel: "Besides she has nothing to say to commoners."

Lady Anastasia does not indeed say anything. Her beautiful face is, if anything almost expressionless.
Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 140 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:6/10
Fri 18 Nov 2022
at 23:16
  • msg #97

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Fyodor has to use all his self control as not to blatantly stare and possibly drool at the beauty of Anastasia.

Fyodor may have been born a commoner but he was a member of the elite Streltsi guard and had fought in wars that protected Kislev from Chaos and Orc invasions. An attempted insult from another Kislevite was nothing that could get Fyodor riled up. He beamed a smile to Anastasia and then answered the man.

[Language unknown: "Unate K thllncil ofit ng reancedin comhernde re remawi, O et encmanble ad red stti staiv ichonsall mion meivle ivteet st ilnaha ou ing. Hoti ceeau o wewielce notonepro, I ut Ssngei Lius'stplto el laer se Weetndev arunutit i Resaveeraers. P iloer ichevevor thred plchharoac larou Vorpreion cares oun sicher.".]

He gave a courtesy bow to Anastasia and then continued talking to the burly man.

[Language unknown: "Il notortwil ut ive ndouprck t anelol ith ckieheerla, er ofnc onentiate an of?"]
Anastasia Tereskovna
NPC, 2 posts
Sat 19 Nov 2022
at 19:52
  • msg #98

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Anastasia's blue eyes widen and she looks at Fyodor in apparent surprise. The beauty opens her mouth... but after a moment of hesitation closes it again. She lowers her eyes and looks away.

Her companion also hesitates though he does have a voice. [Language unknown: "Nti... N prtein has u urees Aipr'sell caienidi ni th bentnitr... Ni Notreswilconear thul'hano u ticie ta aling outle leeve con prwit ivdin hat ereha ce nose Naelll'ceinck Esfiro'ieos tiei aiev. Os e sonthaundrom, antwhiove shesomour acmoni wil ut e cast ou hoai cantse hatoeryinort."]

The Kislevite switches to Reikspiel. "Now if you will excuse us we must eat in peace. Lady Tereskovna's nerves are quite fragile and after she eats she must retire early for the night."

The man's tone makes Frau Speight sound positively jolly and it is clear to Fyodor (and anyone else eavesdropping) that no further intrusion will be welcome.
Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 142 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:6/10
Sat 19 Nov 2022
at 23:19
  • msg #99

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Fyodor eyes narrow and he stares the man for a split second before he turns to Anastasia, beams her a warm smile and gives another slight bow.
[Language unknown: "Tename ioas ousun, a wa."]

With those parting words he leaves the two and joins his friends back at the table. As he sits down he notices that his mug is still full and realizes that is a mistake.

He empties it in one try and slams the mug into the table.

"Party tonight!" he exclaims happily.
Magnus Eshbern
player, 8 posts
Sun 20 Nov 2022
at 00:23
  • msg #100

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Keeping his face expressionless, Magnus waited paitently until Fyodor took his seat again and drained his mug in one go.

"So, what happened there?" he inquired curiously and in a low voice.

It seemed to the apprentice that Anastasia's companion was preventing her to speak to anyone, but to what what end he could not say.
Game Master
GM, 279 posts
Sun 20 Nov 2022
at 10:48
  • msg #101

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

The evening wears on in a merry mood with everyone feeling better for a little food, drink and a warm room. This does not adequately prepare you for the horror ahead that will be bath time.

At a certain point the first bath is readied (for Magnus) and you all take turns in a stout wooden cask into which Magda the serving girl pours a kettle of water heated over the fire. All of this takes place in a ground floor room to the side of the common room (there is apparently a private copper bath but it is is Anastasia's room.)



The water is emptied in between turns which is fortunate indeed for some of you. For Magnus a bath is a familiar experience but for the rest it is a novelty. Lukas in particular turns the water black with grime while Klinka finds himself supplied with a foul smelling bottled concoction to pour on to his head and beard that will supposedly kill his lice (it certainly stings his skin, nostrils and eyes enough to feel potent.)

Even though you are being attended to by a maiden serving girl the experience is far from soft or luxurious with the gloomy, silent, plain faced Magda applying the stiff brush with an Ulrican severity that would shame a torturer of the Estalian inquisition. It is a humiliating, fraught experience but by the time it is over you are at least clean and ready for bed.



OOC: You guys can continue your conversations, just moving the timeline forward.

I'm assuming Pieter let's Magnus examined the mysterious sword at some point prior to baths. You guys can play it out. Magnus I'll want an Academic Knowledge (Magic) test.
Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 143 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:6/10
Sun 20 Nov 2022
at 17:26
  • msg #102

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Once the dirt had been washed from the Fydors face and his beard cleaned an brushed the big kislevite was quite an attractive fellow. He came out from his bath in a good mood and ordered another ale straight away.

He had not had much time to discuss his conversation with his friends so he took a seat at an empty table and waited for any of them to join him. In the mean time he contemplated how he could make some coin in the city.
Lukas Kohl
player, 164 posts
Human, Charcoal Burner
Wounds 4 / 10
Sun 20 Nov 2022
at 17:32
  • msg #103

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Lukas left the bathing room transformed.  His skin was red raw and itched and he would swear that all his back, arms and legs had been shorn of its skin.  His face burned with heat from the water and the exfoliating nature of the stoic Magda's wire brush.  Even his beard looked a lighter shade - years over the burner had baked the darkness into it and he was surprised at how he looked.

He was embarrassed returning back to his fellows looking like a new man but for the first time in his life notably aware of how dirty his clothes were.  It seemed a shame to walk around in dirty soot stained rags when his face beamed with cleanliness.

"I wouldn't recommend doing that often but it was a new experience.  Do people in the city bathe often? he asked Magnus, who probably knew.

"I think in the morning I'd like to buy some clean clothes.  Not fancy ones, just ones that make me look like one of the city," he added, "and I could do with finding some work.  That silversmith owes us for bringing him back here."

"It's not like the real world in a city is it?  I rarely needed coin in the woods, just traded for what I needed and hunted and foraged for food most of the time.  Everything costs money behind the wall."

He turned to Fyodor and asked innocently enough, "Does she sing for her coin too?  She'll notice you more now you have had a bath too I am sure."

Lukas was quite the promoter of these new fangled city ways, trying his best to fit in with his new life
Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 145 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:6/10
Mon 21 Nov 2022
at 04:33
  • msg #104

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

The warrior was on another round of beer when Lukas joined him at the table. But the man seemed nonetheless as coherent as when the group entered the tavern. He listened to Lukas and nodded in agreement when he suggested getting some new clothes.

When the topic turned to Anastasia Fyodor explained "She not talk when ready to perform. Moustache man speak for her. He idiot. " he took a big sip of his ale and grinned. "He rude. Me told him I was Streltsi. He shut up. Anastasia was close to say something but did not. I think idiot is trouble. " the warrior frowned and fell silent for a bit as he was contemplating his next words.

"Next week, she perform Schlosstheater Middenheim. I need money for ticket and clothes. Find work. You go too?" he asked the others.
Magnus Eshbern
player, 9 posts
Mon 21 Nov 2022
at 21:54
  • msg #105

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Despite himself and the stoic faced Magda, Magnus almost enjoyed the bath. However, since he normally preferred bathing himself alone, it was a somewhat uncomfortable experience.

As he saw the others emerge from their bathing endeavors looking like new men though, Magnus surmised the experience had been worth it. He would feel far less conspicuous being around the burly fellows.

"It really depends...many who can do not do so regularly, while those who oft cannot, do so far more regularly," he answered Lukas with a cryptic smile.

As they waited for everyone to get bathed, Magnus asked Pieter for some time along to inspect the sword, hoping he might be able to divine something useful.

Afterwards, he took a seat opposite Fyodor, and asked the large Kislevite again about his conversation with the opera singer Anastasia.
Failure on the Academic Knowledge (Magic) roll. :(


This message was last edited by the player at 21:54, Mon 21 Nov 2022.
Game Master
GM, 282 posts
Mon 21 Nov 2022
at 22:01
  • msg #106

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

As the evening winds down and you start drifting off to sleep Pieter slips out into the streets for the meeting he had mentioned earlier. Before he goes though he does take the opportunity to quietly show Magnus the sword they had found in the Drakwald:



Unfortunately for Magnus the style of the blade is completely unfamiliar - possibly Elven, though even that is a guess he is far from certain of. It is certainly strikingly beautiful and made of blue steel and feels lighter than it should.

OOC: Make a Magical Sense roll Magnus.

Lukas Kohl
player, 166 posts
Human, Charcoal Burner
Wounds 4 / 10
Mon 21 Nov 2022
at 22:14
  • msg #107

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"I will come too," agreed Lukas readily, wanting to fit in with what people in the city did for entertainment.  "Does it cost a lot of money to go to Schlosstheater Middenheim?" he asked the group, not really knowing what the place was or any idea of what this type of thing may cost.
Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 146 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:6/10
Mon 21 Nov 2022
at 23:49
  • msg #108

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Fyodor shrugs. "I expect lots of money. Maybe we get job there? Bodyguards?"
Magnus Eshbern
player, 11 posts
Tue 22 Nov 2022
at 15:24
  • msg #109

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Magnus gazed in unabashed awe at the sword, and could help but murmur, "Beautiful craftsmanship."

Unlike some other mages who scorned swords, Magnus had a healthy respect for the weapons. Few things could grant a lonely traveler the sense of security that a steel blade secured at ones hip could, even for an apprentice wizard.

Given the way things were in the Empire, even using his magic in self defence out in the open could brand him a mutant, heretic or servant of chaos, and put him at the risk of getting flayed alive by any group of passing travelers.

He couldn't recall reading or seeing anything in its like before, aside from the fact that it appeared to be of Elven make. A mage had senses other than his eyes though, and Magnus called upon them now, a strange light coming over his eyes as he looked at the sword through his Wytchsight.
ooc: Magical Sense: 3 successes

.
Game Master
GM, 286 posts
Tue 22 Nov 2022
at 17:56
  • msg #110

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Magnus concentrates as he examines the sword, the secrets of the invisible world coming to him..
Game Master
GM, 287 posts
Wed 23 Nov 2022
at 09:27
  • msg #111

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Everyone eventually retires to a much deserved bed whether in a private room or finding a spot by the cold hearth in the common room. For all of you it has been a very, very long day.



The following morning is a warm one, the early sun chasing away the fogs and night frosts that had promised the coming Autumn would be a cold one. In ones and twos you find your way to the breakfast table and a meal of hot porridge with a dollop of honey served by the tireless Magda.

The Lady Anastasia is not present nor is her minder Doktor Zaitsev. The burghers are around but they too soon depart on business of their own leaving the breakfast table much to yourselves.

Also absent is Frau Speight who departed very early for Aubentag morning services in the Temple. "Don't tell 'er nibs I gave you honey with your porridge. She'd skin me alive," the serving maid confides.

Magda is no prettier in the morning light than she was the evening before but with her fearsome boss away she is certainly more talkative, clearly relishing the unfamiliar experience of giving advice to foreigners. Hearing Fydor mentioning looking for work she says: "If your looking for work you'd best be going down to the Neumarket. They have a public board where people looking for work post notices. You could try Altmarket too, though it ain't so exciting. They always be looking for strong men to haul sacks and push carts."
This message was last edited by the GM at 09:29, Wed 23 Nov 2022.
Lukas Kohl
player, 168 posts
Human, Charcoal Burner
Wounds 4 / 10
Wed 23 Nov 2022
at 11:54
  • msg #112

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

After eating a hearty breakfast, and knowing that some of the group were otherwise engaged Lukas decided he was going to look for some work.

"I think I will go to Neumarket and look for some work, especially if we want to go to the theatre next week."
He thought for a moment before asking the rather kind Magda, "Do they have people there who can help read the noticeboard? I'm not very good with my letters..."
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 134 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Wed 23 Nov 2022
at 12:08
  • msg #113

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Klinka looked almost like a respectable dwarf in his common clothing that replaced his poor, blood and mud stained one from their travels. The bath did some magic too, but perhaps not the way one might have expected. Burns and scars on his scalp and face, previously covered with dirt, were now clearly visible, making him look like someone looking for trouble, but very much trying to not to look that way.

Scratching his freshly washed beard (the only thing that seemed to fit him that morning) and wincing at the porridge (reminding him of the awful food served in the mines), he listened to his companions' plans.

"Why would you pay to listen to someone singing anyway?" he asked. "If she's good at signing, she should be doing it for her own and the others' pleasure, not for money."
Game Master
GM, 290 posts
Wed 23 Nov 2022
at 12:31
  • msg #114

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"You and me both dearie," Magda tells Lukas when he admits he's no reader. "Never worry, there's always some clever clogs who likes showing off by readin' out loud for the rest of us."

She heads back off to the kitchen but not before sticking her tongue out at Harkrin (behind his back) after the dwarf made a face about her porridge.
Pieter Marik
player, 144 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Wed 23 Nov 2022
at 20:13
  • msg #115

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Pieter is quiet over breakfast, having disappeared early in the evening Ng on an errand of his own. And whilst he had been most accommodating of Magnus’ request, his blade was once more swaddled in rags and nestled between his shoulders
Magnus Eshbern
player, 13 posts
Wed 23 Nov 2022
at 20:33
  • msg #116

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Having woken up early as was his wont, Magnus took his time refreshing himself and spending some time meditating before joining the others for breakfast. He ordered some of the honeyed porridge and slowly ate it as he considered the others' plans.

His eyes brushed over the hilt of the sword on Pieter's back and he recalled the wonder he felt when he had seen it through his ethereal sight. Though he had mentioned little of his findings to Pieter last night, as he had left hurriedly on some errand, Magnus leaned close to the man and said, "The blade's name is Moranion. It is a powerful craftsmanship, and there will be many who will covet it should word of it get out."

Taking another bite he glanced at Harkrin, Lukas and Fyodor before saying, "The theater can be quite an experience, or so I have heard. It would be worth to experience it. To earn more money in the meanwhile, perhaps finding work guarding someone, especially someone traveling would be more worthwhile. I can read well enough, perhaps I can help find you such a job being displayed on the boards, or we could ask around."
Lukas Kohl
player, 169 posts
Human, Charcoal Burner
Wounds 4 / 10
Wed 23 Nov 2022
at 20:45
  • msg #117

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"That would be helpful, thankyou Magnus," agreed Lukas appreciatively pondering that once he had new clothes, a job, and a visit to the theatre he may try and learn to read.  It seemed to be useful.  "I know a few of us have got some errands to run today.  Shall we meet back here later?  Hopefully if we can get some honest work we'll be better suited to our new lives here."
Pieter Marik
player, 146 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Wed 23 Nov 2022
at 20:47
  • msg #118

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Nodding to Magnus’ whispered words, Pieter savoured the sound of the name in mind mind: Moranion. Honest work sounded .. honest, and full of toil, but he listened politely
Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 147 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:6/10
Thu 24 Nov 2022
at 16:45
  • msg #119

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Fyodor finished his breakfast and anyones leftovers and even leaned across to ask the table next to them if he could finish theirs. The Kislevite was delightedly surprised when they nodded and handed it over.

" I go to Neumarket. You join?" he asked and pointed his spoon at Magnus.
Pieter Marik
player, 148 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Fri 25 Nov 2022
at 15:17
  • msg #120

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"Neumarket", confirmed Pieter, with a smile. After a moment he leaned in and spoke a little more softly, "If folks aren't too worried about the Watch, there's other enterprises that might benefit from those of our calibre, too, though"

"And if they are, there's some folk in that - and every - part of town to steer clear of"
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 139 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Fri 25 Nov 2022
at 15:22
  • msg #121

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"Good luck to you, fellas." Klinka said, finishing his breakfast and collecting his belongings. "I will see you around later and, hopefully, we'll all be a few coins richer. Try to stay away from trouble - I won't be there to help you this time!"
Game Master
GM, 295 posts
Fri 25 Nov 2022
at 16:53
  • msg #122

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Suitably fortified by breakfast (several breakfasts in Fyodor's case) the group sets out. Fyodor, Lukas, Magnus and Pieter all head north-east in the direction of the Neumarket while Harkrin breaks off to head south-east to the district known as the Wynd. Though he has little idea where Brokk Ranulfsson lives Klinka had overheard one of the gate guards mention the district that was home to most of Middenheim's dwarfs.



Fyodor, Lukas, Magnus and Pieter

The foursome travel through the bustling morning streets of the city. Gradually the middle class houses and businesses of the Westgate-Sudgarten area give way to grander edifices, more often built of stone or at least with stone foundations than half timbered. This is the Merchant District of Middenheim and if the great burghers of the City of the White Wolf cannot truly compete with the other great cities of the Empire - for all it's size and importance land locked Middenheim has never been a great trading centre - they do still have some money, even more pride and a resident population of excellent dwarfish stonemasons and engineers. The three and four story buildings with their shingled roofs and ornamental stonework speak of more importance than Lukas had ever seen.

The attire of the people in the streets has changed too. Southgate had been full of beggars and n'er do wells and what had been seen of Westgate spoke of pragmatic shirts for the men and dresses for the women. The Merchant District has men and women of fashion, in fur trimmed cloaks and gown. Even their servants and bodyguards (and Fyodor notices a few tough looking types eyeing the party as they pass) generally have uniforms.

At some point the foursome follows the street north, skirting a great green expanse - the Great Park of Middenheim - and towards a large square. This area looks more diverse than any you have yet seen with servants in livery carrying sedan chairs and rat catchers in rags all mingling together in a vast market. A veritable sea of stalls with gaily covered canvas roofs offer everything from swords to salt as the traders shout themselves hoarse trying to attract customers.

In among the tumult Magnus spots a crowd gathered around a statue of the Emperor Mandred. Here on a stout oaken post someone has thoughtfully hung a notice board for any and all to hang their notices upon.

Besides countless yellowing notices asking for applicants for scullery maids and stable boys there are a few parchment scrolls that catch the eye. Magnus reads them out for the benefit of the rest of the party:

quote:
WANTED: GENTLEMEN AND LADIES OF COURAGE, INTELLIGENCE AND RESOURCEFULNESS FOR SCIENTIFIC EXPEDITION.
APPLY THE COLLEGIUM THEOLOGICA


quote:
Missing,

Klaus König, 25, beloved fiance of Klara Lang of 31 Siegesstraße, Grafsmund.

Last seen in the Freiburg. Great reward promised!


quote:
WANTED

Frieda Schäfer, 28, notorious charlatan and thief,

Reward - ten gold crowns dead, twenty gold crowns alive if she is presented to the Eastgate watch station.


quote:
Learn the Mysteries of the East at the Feet of a Master!

The Great Magician Tang Wei once advisor to the Emperor of Cathay himself requires assistants!

Pay! Excitement! Travel Opportunities!

Apply the Cat and Swan Inn



OOC: There are many, many more notices but I'll need a Perception roll if you are looking for something in particular and a Gossip roll in case you want to ask anyone nearby if they know anything about the people making the offers (or named in them.)
Game Master
GM, 297 posts
Fri 25 Nov 2022
at 20:03
  • msg #123

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim


Harkrin 'Klinka'

It was a strange feeling being alone in a human city. On the one hand fewer people stared than in the smaller villages Klinka had passed through; Middenheim was too cosmopolitan for that. On the other hand Middenheim was big, far bigger than Karak Bryn. There were perhaps five thousand souls in Klinka's old hold and the City of the White Wolf had...what? Three times as many? Five? Ten? More?

Of course Klinka was not a beardling from the World's Edge Mountain's who'd never seen a day above ground. He was a grizzled ex-convict so if he felt any unease he squashed it back down and tramped on one solid foot in front of the other back through the warren of Southgate towards the point he and his friends had entered the city.

It was another dwarf who pointed him the way. The Middenheim dwarf was obviously a pedlar, carrying a weight of goods on his back that would have bent a mere manling in half. He didn't have time to stop but he did jab a thumb in the direction of the Wynd: "Ye can't miss it. Just keep walking east and if your knows hits the city wall you've gone too far."

Sure enough Klinka passes through Ostwald (and doesn't linger once he saw that at least one of the shops in the district was run by an Elf) and reaches an artisanal community. The Wynd seems to be home to many of the city's stonemasons and metalworkers along with some merchant warehouses. All around him Klinka passes workshops where the lower stories of two or three story buildings are give over to the business while the family lives on the upper floor. Familiar sounds reach his ears - hammers, chisels, saws, picks.

There are a lot more dwarfs too. Klinka has seen one or two since coming to the city but now there are whole streets of them, men, women and children. Working, playing, talking with each other. A whole community To Klinka's eyes the city dwarfs seem a strange mix of the familiar and the foreign - the men all have beards and the women intricate braids in their hair but they are also dressed more like their manling neighbours than the dwarfs of home; all puffy sleeves and feathered hats.

OOC: Okay I'll want a Gossip test to see if Klinka can find anyone who knows Brokk. You can add a 10% bonus since you're dealing with other dwarfs. :-)
Pieter Marik
player, 149 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Fri 25 Nov 2022
at 20:37
  • msg #124

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Wary in the crowd, Pieter tries for bravado, walking with put-on assurance and trying to remain unnoticed in his boldness. Perhaps it his long months avoiding any Imperial notice, away from the cities of men, but the middle classes make him a little more skittish then the ripe pugnaciousness of the Drowned Rat.

When they reach the notice board, he scans the messages though most would believe he cannot read

Three, he points out to Magnus and asks him to read them to him

OOC: 20:33, Today: Pieter Marik rolled 26 -- 1 degree of success using the Warhammer Test system with a target number of 36.  Perception
Game Master
GM, 300 posts
Fri 25 Nov 2022
at 23:30
  • msg #125

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim



Magnus duly reads out three more notices:

quote:
Looking for gold and excitement? Join Immelmann's Irregulars today! Good pay, good opportunities. Apply at the Greedy Goblin, Attquartier.

P.S. No Elves and no Halflings unless applying for the post of company cook.


quote:
Bodyguards, caravan escorts, messangers and general staff wanted for the Mayer Brothers Trading Company. Promotion prospects excellent for the loyal and capable. Room and board provided.

Apply Pavel or Kasmir Mayer, 12 Nordenulricstrasse, Altmarket


quote:
Baroness Brandt's Twelfth Annual Geheimnistag Masquerade

One hundred crown prize for the best costume!

By invitation or guest only!

Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 142 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Sat 26 Nov 2022
at 12:33
  • msg #126

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Once among his people, Klinka relaxed a bit, listening to the familiar language and voices that meant business. They were dwarfs, after all, not some manlings - even though the fashion around this place was odd and definitely not something he was used to.

It was, what, months? Years? He could not remember the last time he saw that many of his kind in one place. Surely it had to be back home, before he decided that mining the mountains was not good enough for him and searching for luck among humans was a better idea. Well, there he was, an ex-convict, friend of a strange bunch of people, one of them carrying an elven sword. Strange times indeed.

He paused by the local shrine devoted to Grungni, noticing an elder dwarf smoking his pipe on a stone bench in front of the building. Putting his chisel back to his pocket (it was stressful morning, with all that city and people around him), Klinka approached the man and sat next to him, keeping a respectable distance. The man was definitely a gnol, local wise and respectable man. Every community used to have at least one, someone who sat there or walked the streets (or corridors, back in the mountains), meeting people, discussing business, getting to know stuff.

[Language unknown: "Menatitha." Unaios ringmi inece but n k whinceess-thatho nowhe. "Rourll p en wick, andughers. Ennepe Sesiwi. Na icch ca ofint. Ic the one iclat thioveeve willatwhi?" ]
Thingrim
NPC, 1 post
Sat 26 Nov 2022
at 13:08
  • msg #127

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

The older dwarf raises bushy eyebrows, clearly surprised at being approached by a stranger but Klinka's respectful tone wins him over. He puffs away at his pipe a moment, sending blue-gray wisps of smoke skyward as he regards the newcomer.

[Language unknown: "Went'urha conwiloun Esntit. O hapr omivur set leac derconine i o ainsi inetiv. Caver Ca di al encwilwer er eiunni of ainich'tedeau ati ainpr."]

His Khazalid is perfectly fluent and his voice strong and fine but there is a hint of Reikspiel to it. Either he has resided in the Empire for more years than Klinka has been alive or he was quite possibly born here. The gnol's clothes are a mix of the traditionally dwarfish (his woollen, hooded travelling cloak, stout boots) and the human (breeches, grey-blue undershirt.)

[Language unknown: "I u Tenoleli Plpeloet ereec ieomnc. Ntiev lin un Our Artardrat al eeun resut? Eita ous ich alta li ectintoul asieei,"] Thingrim says approvingly. He takes another puff and looks at Klinka, clearly taking in the younger dwarfs various scars.   [Language unknown: "A inie ne io m elta ce hasatiest Osceiv. U p e p whus oveiveove antproave con ul omcawa a thedi il Ne osplst ec os u Lin lat i thmi ni."]
Lukas Kohl
player, 170 posts
Human, Charcoal Burner
Wounds 4 / 10
Sat 26 Nov 2022
at 16:59
  • msg #128

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Lukas stood at the noticeboards nodding his head, pretending he could read whilst he listened to Magnus read the jobs out.  Most of the jobs sounded dangerous, some of them promised travel, some promised riches and some offered bed and board.

"The Mayer Brothers Trading Company - they sound like they'd pay well and would suit us.  We're good escorts by now," he mused allowed, but now safe behind the walls of Middenheim he wasn't sure he wanted to leave the city.  He thought pretty much about the scientific expedition.

"Immelman's Irregulars, well that sounds dangerous.  We've fought our war, I don't want to join another.  And that Grand Magician Tang Wei?  Wizard's really worry me."

He looked sheepishly at Magnus, worrying he had offended him.  Secretly, he thought Wizard's were amazing, even though they were unfathomable.

"What about finding that missing person?  I can't imagine what it would be like to lose one's love!"  (Indeed, he had seen much of the loss of love in his recent adventures.

He really wasn't sure, and as he was musing aloud he started to ask locals also looking for work if anyone on the boards had a good reputation in the city, and more importantly if they paid on time and fairly.

(OOC: 16:46, Today: Lukas Kohl rolled 12 -- 1 degree of success using the Warhammer Test system with a target number of 24.  Gossip Test Fel 24)
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 143 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Sat 26 Nov 2022
at 17:11
  • msg #129

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Resting his head on the stone wall behind the bench, Harkrin nodded to Thingrim.

[Language unknown: "N p fi maleliho a yin resar, Wawhleun Encicacomset. O ich has een eeain hodi ek pessan st lat th. Oul, Con urro men er el i Lin Traatedineve. Atiingere Man m u adecss. Tarea areel, It urwila onpeicou ter ilmiee a po adarar cepr..."] Harkrin said, remembering his family and the hold he used to call home.

[Language unknown: "K tiokoreve n mievla ncfoec, la anulti pr lo be somherwil plteit oun yin witet p ons toek. N al iveho fialro naprpo cesthi nt ilpril pl ca ratek."] he said scratching his beard. [Language unknown: "Ure oreder-latall p illoti i iemailch ing il andmanwit a oume derha El roonul le. Ulti ad ac fo ncic oulpredin lourto t vir ul eraicadinbut dina-acerle."]

There was no reason to rush and surely Thingrim was the best source of information about local dwarfs Klinka could find. Sharing a pint or two with him did not sound like a bad idea. Maybe he could even have a proper breakfast as well!
Game Master
GM, 301 posts
Sat 26 Nov 2022
at 20:47
  • msg #130

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Fyodor, Lukas, Magnus and Pieter

"The Mayer Brothers? Oh I know them well," a dark haired, sharp featured woman in traveling clothes tells Lukas. "My brother used to be a bodyguard of theirs before he was drafted into the Count's army. Sharp merchants working the Kislev and Ostland trade but they treated their staff well enough, though I hear their fortune is nearly gone these days - not much trade north thanks to the war. If they can make money again you'll be golden and have powerful friends. If they can't good luck seeing your wages."

She gives Lukas a friendly wink and moves off into the crowd, brushing past a portly man in fine clothes as she disappears. A few moments later Lukas hears a gasp and sees the same portly gentleman furiously looking around himself for a now missing coin purse...



"Immelmann's Irregulars? Huh! Bleedin' Free Companies! If a man were a man 'ed be joining the State Troops like I'd did." an old man grouses when Lukas brings them up. The grizzled Middenheimer pokes Lukas in the stomach with his wooden cane. "You mark my words young man you can't trust a man who fights just for coin. Why in my day..."



A few moments later and Lukas finds himself talking to a trio of very excited children. "I saw the Cathayan magician put on a show in Nordenplatz!"

"Yeah! He made a dog talk and turned himself invisible and chopped off a woman's head with a sword!"

Their companion glared at them with the crushing superiority of a ten year old surrounded by nine year olds. "He didn't really cut her head off dummy! You saw her walking around after the show with her head on!"

"Well maybe he magiced it back on?"

"Yeah! If it was just a trick how did he do it?"

For that the ten year old had no answer.



"The Collegium Theologica are a fine body of men and women dedicated to learning," an older distinguished looking man tells Lukas. "Was I but a few years younger I'd have cheerfully joined that expedition myself."

He pauses in thought before adding. "Just make sure you don't sign up for an expedition to Lustria. The last three or four have disappeared, sacrificed by toad men or eaten by wild animals or kept as slaves by the beautiful but deadly Amazons." The distinguished gentleman's voice trails off and he looks back at the notice wistfully.



"The baroness's masquerades are legendary," a young fop in an outrageous hat tells Lukas. He sighs in theatrical fashion. "Sadly they are very exclusive, especially with her husband as regent while the Count is away. Unless you have a ticket or a contact you are doomed - alas I myself am blackmarked. I knew her before she married during her acting days and we did not get on."



No one seems to know much about Klaus König, Klara Lang or Frieda Schäfer, save that Grafsmund is a very well to do address and that if Frieda Schäfer is still in the city someone in the underworld is probably sheltering her.
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:14, Sat 26 Nov 2022.
Thingrim
NPC, 2 posts
Sat 26 Nov 2022
at 21:09
  • msg #131

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Harkrin 'Klinka'

Thingrim leads Klinka to a nearby fine looking tavern named the Drakk Bak ('Dragon's Head'). It is a stout two story structure with a stone foundation and half timber upper floor. It looks like it is very much built with dwarfs in mind - the door and ceilings are high enough that a tall human could fit with stooping but for a non-dwarf it might have seemed snug.

The interior is very clean and decorated with tapestries of heroic deeds past against orcs, trolls and elves and Klinka even recognises a few. There were well made wooden tables and chairs and - hanging over the fireplace and taking up much of the wall is a dragon's head. It is huge and fearsome and still frozen in a taxidermized snarl.

[Language unknown: "I ndetdial astsettho ou teilet Werivethowil and poofss Endial,"] Thingrim says proudly. He reachs over and pets the dead beasts upper jaw, an afectionate smile on his face. [Language unknown: "Aros'utll tin hopo rut wheersany adwi li elusur n as. Undha e herlo llneliec ckshe te ngen an thisle ascon naeksi toro readi anilol e venoursom ers ca. Iccaio Sadi lo me. Toha wistof ithentvir day asbe reskorart!"]

Taking a table Thingrim waves over a pretty female dwarf with braided blonde hair. [Language unknown: "Thast theonsent o Hechil Are al ainithter lin omie usla." ]

As the barmaid goes off in search of fodder Thingrim leans back in his chair and begins filling his pipe. [Language unknown: "Ac wit stath ha? Etplos t a prca Thi onmani. Nt we chsiwe il ompaof ar ticwhipro?"]
This message was last edited by the player at 01:49, Sun 27 Nov 2022.
Magnus Eshbern
player, 14 posts
Sat 26 Nov 2022
at 23:14
  • msg #132

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Leaning on his staff, Magnus pondered the available jobs and listened attentively to the comments by the passerbys.

"Frankly speaking, I am inclined towards the expedition by The Collegium Theologica, although I can understand the appeal of the Mayers Brothers Trading Company, it is a straightforward job and you know what to expect. Likely it will be safer and faster too," he said to the others.

Shrugging he indicated he would be fine with either decision, though ofcourse they would inquire for more information from their prospective employers before coming to a final decision. It would not really do if the expedition of the Collegium were to last for many months or ever years, Magnus would have other duties to attend to in some months back in Altdorf.

"The missing lover interests me as well Lukas, perhaps we could incorporate this mystery as well if we can make the time," he said with a smile to Lukas.
Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 149 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:6/10
Sun 27 Nov 2022
at 17:45
  • msg #133

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Walking through the streets to Neumarket was a sensory bombardment for the northern warrior. His time Erengrad had been an experience, but nothing compares it to the size of Middenheim.

He noticed the gazes of the bodyguards and pondered maybe that could be a career he could take up one day.

At the notice board he listened to the others as the conversation picked up about possible work.

After a while he chimed in

"Mayer Brothers Trading Company sound like good job. Also travel to Kislev. I from there. he says proudly pointing at himself. "Where Freiburg? In city?"
Pieter Marik
player, 150 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Sun 27 Nov 2022
at 21:25
  • msg #134

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"Some of these are more then they seem", offered Pieter softly, rubbing at his nose to cover his mouth as he spoke. He pinched his nostrils in the cold air, then muttered, "Schäfer, for instance. Could be trouble..."

"But the Mayer Brothers sounds ... workable", he acknowledge, more loudly
Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 150 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:6/10
Sun 27 Nov 2022
at 23:16
  • msg #135

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Fyodor looked puzzled at Pieter.

"What you mean?"
Pieter Marik
player, 151 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Mon 28 Nov 2022
at 05:30
  • msg #136

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"Someone wants her dead, badly", explained Pieter softly to the Kislevite, "Fellow who runs all the gangs in Southgate. Gangs like Rolf's"
Lukas Kohl
player, 171 posts
Human, Charcoal Burner
Wounds 4 / 10
Mon 28 Nov 2022
at 12:20
  • msg #137

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"That makes sense then.  The Watch are pretending they want her dead or alive, but are paying more for her alive.  That tells me that she has information that can upset a lot of the criminals here but also that powerful figures in the Watch, or those who influence them want their hands on her first, maybe to see what exactly she knows."

Lukas quite liked working the mystery out in his head, but was also very worried about getting involved.  "If, we happened to find Schafer, we'd almost certainly draw the attention of those Ranald's blessing.  I suspect they'd pay more than the Watch too."

"On balance though, going anywhere near this could lead to us making powerful enemies, rather than friends, and seeing as we have just got here I don't want enemies just yet."

Lukas thought some more about the other offers, "I'd be happy listening to hear what Mayers Brothers and the magic college have to say.  I don't think I am to happy about leaving the city so soon, especially since we are saving up for the singing.  We do need money and board though."

The sane option would be to try and learn a new trade somewhere rather than go off on adventurous schemes but ever since he met Gunther and his book, the enchanting and oft missed Luciana and of course Pieter he'd had a thirst for more than burning charcoal in a hut.
Pieter Marik
player, 152 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Mon 28 Nov 2022
at 12:22
  • msg #138

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"We may have made those enemies already", muttered Pieter, "But perhaps a conversation for later"
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 144 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Mon 28 Nov 2022
at 12:41
  • msg #139

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Harkrin politely waited for his companion to finish filling his pipe and for the serving girl to return with ale and food. He said his thanks and then waited a bit more for Thingrin to be the first to eat and drink.

[Language unknown: "Rutel m houanyrat. Se illicaast pohomeut ie adtese candth attrev notrai. Oulfo maneiour, onewhesta t pailfo initit. Has o hiecdi. Verie ntstof t, naplmo a ard eeckut e witla usesachaut but eiisca sta ratvorwer. Mo whho art ditoun an enicsehi anteencom red o. Ma thiandpre thata llit."

"Ted out in und riasfi diwa waalei. Hointh niit. Nd oer ee ma therhi. Any hisareove. Out ateti icpeul e ai venwhehou p nghacewa. Preul ll ittrec lotic ma ho ndwa'firi tiess. K weerwh il louliv andanytic ev aiut daythanti, his one ne U ivhoel a tius re. Sa thoro art asect intthukor? Ear roriis niurpl as ismiut!"]

Harkrin took a long sip of his dark ale. This was not a story he wanted to tell everyone. In fact, it was the first time he was telling this to anyone except Brokk Ranulfsson a few months back.

[Language unknown: "He les traun ad adsetr ta as sa romlarver whe, arwa ess di om ardromset. Maiv ei, ndte are il. Ove wilta As maioom tic haesad, etil omoul ll allkornde pofiatpo, us nte rom itieev. Wa iv sangil n po formanhat en eeut ndeanttha osncse, dires plpo seesiv hietss. Na der nteoneeenrat, venereherers to enica. Nd ic areeenove str rice el unro of tho aiwiethi ers. Sheev o conproand p ev ndekni tamiwh, ourourain whiastameame a iv ardai saintate ove ilsell.

"Laad ble anyvorkor etwana ectameain, ai anadhi Tra wh teeau ive as ispani tha." pe ncebutnte. "Pl it N erahe n innt'taar ersntieen el her ioneauera hout. K, Ni iv ou it chera p nttrla prerutstrouteve. Ven oul manartoer m ispo der, pe fiave ilhame inosme na of com asonnc. Son eesta ul stiof uncafo, nceoulome ei illnc lema n be omehis'hernce stla ametrathu le artbutcomnde. Thaingthe Ntcecetafi ng hoof hatli. Trni ous m tiodaykor ine urenteratlat, a dinar o we man aiusredisi ndbe, ng ainthoany."]

The mention of replaying the grudge got Harkrin thinking. He's been away from his kind for a long time, long enough to forget about the dwarf's ways. Grudges and repaying them were bread and butter even back in the Mountains. Here - he could only wonder how things like that are settled.
[Language unknown:
"Iongisro ne ounionher, str, rom e pehi-haad N un un wa. His is olesma El iv m ioeein mi icngno ugh intovethe we Setnotame Ncrileenti."] he finally said. [Language unknown: "Plee ckchar fotin onsa ere ntiatisan ta estnotrut hisoulred?"
]
Game Master
GM, 304 posts
Mon 28 Nov 2022
at 21:44
  • msg #140

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Harkrin 'Klinka'

The food proves to be thick spiced sausages and fresh bread and helps fill up the hole that the porridge in 'The Sullen Jester' so clearly failed to. The ale likewise has a familiar taste to it, carrying memories of home.

Thingrim sits in silence a moment, puffing away as he listens to Klinka's tale before he responds: [Language unknown: "Ithproshe a os asllplch. Whiie re Dipe-etngtr seloio ei vor intil pre it ouhas Latenoli. Ect onssetainles Pete, Ckekiswe setiv,"] - he grimaces at the next word - [Language unknown: "Onehisave. Il thabutore momoun tehose i tent p ersreapro tape ha omeame-derble tr oferre tafi om roic oulntetra lo."]

He lays aside his pipe for the moment to take a draught of his ale, swallowing before continuing. [Language unknown: "M ntiwittho tohebe oerstiear ic ica terha ort haal beac il e astri olesas ma lesanyast. Fiek Ro wa ate oncom earortmen Peioti. Atime erawerall ro fisi mawer ecio hiect erma and n lin whistiear a onulsite econ ek undss inilus aimema unwi-thno avent Iearon ma ca atatat ion m ilni ai daywitman ngnt an stad'paca thostrrom. P ouilei n Menmenonseauortich ri vor be dinca."]

The older dwarf looks at Klinka with sympathy. [Language unknown: "Utinpr any iv ear ter. Ce ad ers ssriho ostawi u ulckek as saha on al arepreeve powi."]
Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 151 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:6/10
Tue 29 Nov 2022
at 00:33
  • msg #141

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Fyodor frowned at Pieter's comments.

"If we in danger, you share info. Dont want sneaky knife in back."
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 146 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Tue 29 Nov 2022
at 11:53
  • msg #142

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Harkrin listened to Thingrim carefully. The grudge had to wait indeed, but it was good to know there was a way things like this could be settled in Middenheim. It appeared the place was much more civilised than he had expected.

[Language unknown: "Cassil undro Itacthel hi son ekoer ur thaillshe."] he finally said, putting a few shillings on the table to pay for his own ale and meal. [Language unknown: "Shepe but pronterom e a Theillica? We larbleion be ent Di chan eelat ss hasithati. Etst ni T llwh wihi, ouble viraveour ithpl p un ho. Uttha ma tr ngmail weros on ich o pa traovetha mo e shest eisi te lar nt us Leus'possun ichherwit eeac naernedini ughstated, ateanyoulthi areichthe ion omeherbut alolof."] he added with a grin. [Language unknown: "Stpounla pr saleac, m sa ncme whe ekusetwiie we atpoilch Arst fobe mo mo ecalie reace ofonpl. Nt hirohe ulers ugheveareforthe ughus ecesli hietarar?" ]

Asking a dwarf for a good weaponsmith would be in itself an insult to the quality of his people's craft, so Harkrin opted instead for someone his new companion could recommend. He looked like someone who knew everyone around.
Magnus Eshbern
player, 15 posts
Tue 29 Nov 2022
at 16:04
  • msg #143

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Magnus listened to the exchange between Lukas, Pieter and Fyodor. Though Pieter spoke softly enough that he couldn't hear the words, he did hear Lukas and his interest was piqued.

"Does anyone care to explain what you are talking about? Who is this Schafer, and who is wanted dead or alive?" he asked the trio curiously. It was a bit exciting to be sure, this talk of the Watch and criminals and someone being hunted.

"I may be a newcomer to Middenheim like all of you, but I do have connections of my own here you know, perhaps i can be of assistance?" he added.
Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 152 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:6/10
Tue 29 Nov 2022
at 17:23
  • msg #144

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Fyodor points to one of the notes on the board. "You read about lady missing."
Pieter Marik
player, 153 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Tue 29 Nov 2022
at 20:19
  • msg #145

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Pieter nodded, "There's thieves cant on some of the notices. That, combined with some information I uncovered yesterday, has suggested a few thing..."

Eyeballing the crowd, he suggested, "Perhaps we retire to our rooms?"
Thingrim
NPC, 3 posts
Wed 30 Nov 2022
at 11:19
  • msg #146

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Harkrin 'Klinka'

Thingrim strokes his gray beard thoughtfully before speaking: [Language unknown: "Ca encerarom wasa a ul Lesen Aststares al atithacom ck eau nt. T ceonon meho larivence nohas ta a ainur resartndemenith icne n ichiil poeitr sethourat Niilin strvorhis e ouni wiesro m ie oun ca no m astionrom statedine any ur alni eccken."]

[Language unknown: "Of diar Ichichset, ive hatsi ho ilca alome..."] the older dwarf runs his finger along the lines of Klinka's map, tracing out the route to Brokk's house. Then he bids the younger dwarf farewell and wishes him luck.

Glockestrasse is indeed close by and Klinka soon finds his way there and a short cobbled street of buildings that look like well built merchant homes with blue-grey shingle roofs. Brokk Ranulfsson lives at the far end. Approaching the door he knocks and to his surprise finds it opened by a human lass of not quite twenty summers - clearly a maid or servant by her attire.

The serving girl's hazel eyes widen at the sight of the scarred (though now clean) dwarf in front of her but she does still say: "May I help you?"
Lukas Kohl
player, 173 posts
Human, Charcoal Burner
Wounds 4 / 10
Wed 30 Nov 2022
at 12:28
  • msg #147

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"In that case Pieter, I think a quiet discussion would be welcome," agreed Lukas who was now balancing the opportunity for intrigue and mystery with the very real desire for an honest day's work and the relative peace and security that would bring.
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 147 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Wed 30 Nov 2022
at 12:41
  • msg #148

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

If he was surprised at the unexpected Umgi servant, Harkrin did not show it. "Tromm." he said, but then he corrected himself. "Good morning, lass. I'm Harkrin. Looking for Brokk Ranulfsson. He knows me. Is he in?"
Brokk Ranulfsson
NPC, 1 post
Wed 30 Nov 2022
at 22:28
  • msg #149

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Harkrin 'Klinka'

The serving girl nods. "He is Master Harkrin, please follow me," she turns and walks back into the house inviting Klinka to follow.

Inside there is the same mixture of what Klinka might have thought of as 'Umgi' influence and those that are more traditionally dwarfish. The entrance hall is all wood panelled in a very human style but the wall is adorned with a runic banner carefully picking out Brokk's family lineage in Khazalid.

"Please wait here Master Harkrin," the girl says before vanishing through a side door and leaving Klinka alone with his thoughts for a few moments.

"Ah if isn't the young miner from Karak Bryn," a rich voice calls out as Brokk Ranulfsson enters the room. The other dwarf is a little older and a little balder than Klinka remembers but he is still clearly in the prime of life with a great red beard and twinkling green eyes. He is dressed in a green, fur-lined hooded dwarfish cloak over more human style clothing that would befit a merchant.

"Welcome to my home young Harkrin. I have to admit I never expected to see you in Middenheim. Tell me, what brings you to my door?"
Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 153 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:6/10
Thu 1 Dec 2022
at 00:00
  • msg #150

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"We discuss back at inn? Go see Mayer merchant now?"
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 148 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Thu 1 Dec 2022
at 06:41
  • msg #151

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"Tromm, Master Brokk. Thank you for your hospitality." Harkrin replied, politely bowing his head. "It is our ancestors' way to repay grudges. But I've been taught well that repaying for kindness is also very important. So having arrived in Middenheim I could not miss the opportunity to visit you, thank you once again and offer my humble service to you." he explained. Brokk did not seem interested in detailed history of his travels anyway and surely he was a busy dwarf. Being plain and to the point seemed the best options.

"I seek no charity, though. You've done enough for me already, so if there is something I can do to you in return, I will be happy to do so." he quickly added.
Brokk Ranulfsson
NPC, 2 posts
Fri 2 Dec 2022
at 01:13
  • msg #152

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Brokk raises a pair of bushy auburn eyebrows.

"I see, well Young Harkrin I thank you for the respect you have shown me. Truth be told I may have need for a miner in a few weeks but until then there may be other jobs you could help me with. Do you have any partcular skills or skilled companions?"
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 151 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Fri 2 Dec 2022
at 08:52
  • msg #153

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"I am not sure I'd like to go back to the mines, Master Bokk. To many bad memories." Harkrin admitted. "But I've got some experience with combat - me and my Umgi companions protected a bunch of civilians all the way from Untergard to Middenheim. We can do similar stuff again, once we recover from a recent brawl. We have a Kislevite who's good with his halberd, a clever rogue with a bloody elven blade and a wizard. And a clever charcoal burner who gets into trouble wherever he goes." he listed his companions. "We may not be the best at what we do, but we can take care of ourselves. And surely - we can take care of others as well.'
Magnus Eshbern
player, 17 posts
Fri 2 Dec 2022
at 19:50
  • msg #154

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Still desiring to know more about what the others were talking about, Magnus resisted the urge to pester them about it and said to Fyodor, "Mayer seems tobe the popular choice, I concur if that is what you all want."
Pieter Marik
player, 154 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Sat 3 Dec 2022
at 10:05
  • msg #155

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"Let's speak, quietly, on our way to the Altmarket to speak to the Mayers", suggested Pieter. If folks were willing, he asked Magnus to lead them to a small tavern or eatery on the way, seeking a quiet table where they could see whomever overheard them
Game Master
GM, 307 posts
Sat 3 Dec 2022
at 13:38
  • msg #156

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Fyodor, Lukas, Magnus and Pieter

Pieter leads the quartet back towards the Almarket. Though he is as much of a stranger to Middenheim as everyone else in the group he is still the most familiar with towns and his unerring nose soon locates a shabby but quiet tavern on a narrow street - 'The Hog & Hag'.

It is still well before noob and there are no other patron. The bored barkeep looks like he'll take his time fetching you your drinks, leaving you plenty of time and privacy to plot and plan.
Brokk Ranulfsson
NPC, 3 posts
Sat 3 Dec 2022
at 13:50
  • msg #157

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Harkrin 'Klinka'

Brokk's eyes widen at the mention of an Elven blade and a wizard. "I'd tell your friend to be careful flashing that around Young Harkrin. There are Elves in Middenheim - I've even done business with them - and no Elgi who has ever lived is happy seeing a sword of theirs in the hands of a Dawi or Umgi. Still, it sounds like you have a group of capable friends."

He pauses, stroking his beard. "I am a merchant as you know Young Harkrin. It can be a hard business, but a profitable one. You don't strike me as a bookeeper or accountant but the trading life does need more resourceful people too. I know a very sharp manling who pay well for something like your friends sword - not that I am suggesting you sell it understand, just that if you and your friend's come across other rare items I would be very interested."
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 152 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Sat 3 Dec 2022
at 14:52
  • msg #158

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"My Umgi friend keeps the blade well concealed. I think he's not happy about carrying it around openly, but I don't think he would be willing to part with it - even for a nice sum of money that would buy him a reliable sword from a dwarf." Harkin admitted.

"I will keep my eyes open and let you know if we came across any similar item, Master Brokk. And if you find yourself in a need of some capable outsiders to help you with your business, do not hesitate to contact me. We will be staying around 'The Sullen Jester' in the Westgate-Sudgarten."

The meeting didn't really go as Harkrin expected, but he paid his respect to his benefactor and could go ahead with looking for a proper job somewhere else - perhaps revisiting his Halfling friends from "The Drowned Rat" could be an option?

OOC: Unless Brokk has anything else to add, Harkrin will thank for his time and depart in search for Njal Ormson.
Pieter Marik
player, 156 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Sat 3 Dec 2022
at 16:39
  • msg #159

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Sipping on his tar-black stout, more of a morning beer then one of those sour or hoppy ales for sure, Pieter waited a minute or two whilst the innkeeper retreated before speaking

"'The Little Tsars'", he began, "That is what they call the Mayer brothers. They run the Altmarket, though their Trading Company has its own legitimate business too. There's an opportunity there, I think, the war being bad for business. They're hanging on by the teeth, it seems, and that provides an opening for us...."

"That, and they're the main route into the city for vodka and kvass", he laughed
Game Master
GM, 309 posts
Sun 4 Dec 2022
at 18:46
  • msg #160

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Harkrin 'Klinka'

Brokk is a little surprised to see Klinka go so quickly but he shakes the other dwarf's hand and tells him to call again.

Njal Ormson proved easy to find after Klinka asks a passerby. The weaponsmith was in a side street close to the city wall and in liue of a wooden sign a very practical looking broadsword hung by chains over the door. From within came the sounds of hammering and grunting.

Entering Klinka finds a very busy looking weaponsmith's shop with examples of the owner's handiwork covering every wall. A dwarf in late middle age with a few strands of grey in his hair and beard is hard at work hammering at a molten sword. He looks up briefly from his work to acknowledge Klinka.

[Language unknown: "Titr os i unhapl,"] Njal mutters. As he turns back down to his hammering Klinka notes that the weaponsmith's left eye is all white and sightless with a long healed scar running across it from brow to cheek.
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 153 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Sun 4 Dec 2022
at 21:30
  • msg #161

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

[Language unknown: "Onsta iouus elut, Tinouleau Manternot" ] Harkrin said and took a stroll along the walls to look at the weapons on display. Perhaps replacing his used axe would be a better idea than trying to turn it into something sharper. The dwarf was aware of his limited funds, so if Ormson's prices were too much for him, he would have to stick to his old weapon anyway.

Not to mention the fact he also wanted to get some armour.
Magnus Eshbern
player, 18 posts
Sun 4 Dec 2022
at 22:47
  • msg #162

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Keeping his hood up as he entered the tavern despite the lack of patrons, Magnus followed Pieter to an empty table and took a seat, propping his staff by the side of the table.

He ordered nothing save lemon water, sipping it thoughtfully and keeping his silence yet listening attentively to Pieter and the others.
Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 154 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:6/10
Mon 5 Dec 2022
at 18:42
  • msg #163

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Fyodor scratched his beard and muttered "Little Tzars, Mayers brothers....hmmm" he tried to remember if I had heard about them in the past.


OOC: 10:40, Today: Fyodor Fyodoreski rolled 7 using 1d100.  Common Knowledge (Kislev) - 27.
Game Master
GM, 310 posts
Mon 5 Dec 2022
at 22:15
  • msg #164

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Harkrin 'Klinka'

Klinka sees several fine axes, maces, daggers and swords hanging on the wall. Most look properly dwarfish in style though judging by the length and balance of a couple of the swords they had perhaps been forged and shaped with human customers in mind.

Eventually Njal Ormson seems satisfied with his work on the sword and dips the glowing blade in water to let it cool off. He walks over to Klinka and gives him a nod. [Language unknown: "Elle one ameshewhiate. Pa ckin wi earmi almaun on e ereatelin?"]

Noticing Klinka has been eyeing a particularly well crafted axe Njal smiles (not an entirely pretty sight given his scar.) [Language unknown: "Hatre osicev midi siles nd? T ad at beolti omchec illur ad but Pe ta p acofic asevolio I trnoil o mista fipl, icos avedayand ioll ul ecom-erarri willatrat ers pr."]




Fyodor, Lukas, Magnus and Pieter

The barkeep arrives with drinks and departs with nary a word.
Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 155 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:6/10
Mon 5 Dec 2022
at 23:42
  • msg #165

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"Ahh Mayer brothers. Mother from Kislev. Dad imperial trader. Father big fan of Kislev. Brother must be sons." Fyodor shared after emptying his mug of beer in one draught and it did not take him long to get it refilled.
Pieter Marik
player, 157 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Tue 6 Dec 2022
at 22:35
  • msg #166

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"Yes, those are the fellows", affirmed Pieter, pleased that someone else had an inkling of the situation, "Question is... Do we want to poke our head in that hornet's nest? I'm game, I think there's an opportunity with their situation beign precarious and all... but it will be precarious..."
Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 156 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:6/10
Tue 6 Dec 2022
at 23:42
  • msg #167

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"Why nest of hornets?" he asked curiously.
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 154 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Wed 7 Dec 2022
at 09:31
  • msg #168

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

[Language unknown: "Ncecomsheand, Ilisac Ticiouome"] Harkrin said with a smile.[Language unknown: "Islareri elteen butmeniou essul tervenshe allre Ri ho for Oneast'ardany on trmoic arndtr forameerswhewit el. Ll p atiwilwit leolng wilwe nc asitei, astiouain foeles mi iooul dinentsti ad essnd ilplca I usus la ndntut wilardmen Ol earandoer ardndeman omutcaen. Ousatilat, o ove was ortareson ad lin foleel omion rom hatbuting u ntsa hohe e ie hascomeen ta n eili esolti onseveati."] he smiled at the memory of their recent travels and dangers they had encountered.
Lukas Kohl
player, 175 posts
Human, Charcoal Burner
Wounds 4 / 10
Wed 7 Dec 2022
at 12:26
  • msg #169

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"It doesn't hurt to ask what work they have in mind," suggested Lukas, "though, if I have understood you rightly, the work will carry a certain element of risk?  Both in terms of us getting paid because of their situation, and that the trading company is a cover for more illegitimate interests."

Lukas wanted to say that he didn't want to get involved with anything immoral or illegal, but he had also learnt that the most honest men in the big cities of the Empire were those starving in the streets.

More directly, he asked Pieter, "Do you think the Mayer Brothers have an interest one way or another in the missing charlatan Schafer?"
Game Master
GM, 311 posts
Thu 8 Dec 2022
at 13:53
  • msg #170

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Harkrin 'Klinka'

Njal doesn't seem offended that Klinka probably can't afford his prices. [Language unknown: "Lat, e outiouble was er ridi nd onnt admi wil... ta Me essei me dinurende prman inaias u reaek hante eteril ore O t eau hemo. Andfo as urain sinece eraortrut i llus saof miine ma ee poatic n Ioundenteint Nabecefo He arna al o ven t cafiat est cenoti ceusur esosce plsan o. Ure verintticest n un nosi int ard se omilck for uswe ut Isno Liofadun anyun thimi terichher ec Linrutcon Uredin'atecon ha reai a nce th olek siave ameut ousnceeen hatthaate Alon herconhas a Oulsomart ing Ntmi paious n plman ei entvenone t er ss ar ol usall atithuder treau peisus. Tiodi ndilpo i rias u ananpe omel ame latsa ng vorichres."]

He smiles, spits on his hand and offers it to Klinka to shake: [Language unknown: "Topa?"]
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:57, Thu 08 Dec 2022.
Magnus Eshbern
player, 19 posts
Thu 8 Dec 2022
at 20:33
  • msg #171

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Thinking he had an inkling of what the others were implying, Magnus stroked his chin for a moment before saying, "Perhaps working while quietly uncovering ill-legitimate activities underneath could put us in the good graces of the law. It could also net us a reward and allow better jobs and contracts with the Empire."

Taking a sip of his drink he gave a small shrug and added, "There will be the element of risk, ofcourse, but no one every got rich or powerful by playing it safe."
Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 157 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:6/10
Thu 8 Dec 2022
at 23:27
  • msg #172

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Fyodor emptied the 2nd beer. "Da! Fun work. 4 more beers then we go see them." he exlaims with a big grin on his face.
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 155 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Fri 9 Dec 2022
at 07:17
  • msg #173

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Harkrin smiled, not the first time this day. [Language unknown: "El eltoiv een o vordinandest of, prhe A wilwitort lint urewerrom man n difiel st Alanncer, Tedthuhas Foliiv. Re hiom, I sheec day onll whe beng prhe arplun m ome! M lesat i pa!"] the dwarf spat on his hand and shook Ormson's hand.

[Language unknown:
"Somanyear larpe ion hasom tio fo linth olhool. Of ngsire rutorevir sanse ionkorlar Us thu omeul sehe winatr."]
Game Master
GM, 315 posts
Sat 10 Dec 2022
at 12:16
  • msg #174

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Harkrin 'Klinka'

Njal Ormson nods in appreciation. [Language unknown: "Ainwi venon allai."]

He returns to his work leaving Klinka to his own devices.


OOC: Where to now?
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 156 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Sun 11 Dec 2022
at 07:33
  • msg #175

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

OOC: Harkrin will look for an armourer to get himself a breastplate or a chainmail, and probably a helmet as well, depending on the prices there.
Game Master
GM, 317 posts
Sun 11 Dec 2022
at 20:29
  • msg #176

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Harkrin 'Klinka'

Klinka finds it relatively easy to find an armourer who specialised in dwarf sizes - though after hearing the prices he almost wishes he hasn't. A leather skullcap costs 2 gold crowns, a leather jerkin that protects the body 6 gold crowns, a leather jack which covers both body and arms 12 gold crowns and leather leggings cost 10 gold crowns. A full set of leather armour would cost 25 gold.

"Best prices I can manage," explains the armourmer, a stout dwarf with an explosion of a black beard. "I have a cousin who works with metal armour but if you want any of that you'll need a lot of gold."
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 157 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Mon 12 Dec 2022
at 09:16
  • msg #177

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"Bloody hell, I should have trained as a smith rather than a miner." Harkrin grumbled and fished 12gc from his pocket to get a leather jack. After some consideration, he added 2gc more for a skullcap. "Maybe not today, but it would be good to know where to find your cousin. One never knows when that extra gold may appear in his pocket."
Game Master
GM, 320 posts
Mon 12 Dec 2022
at 12:01
  • msg #178

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim



Fyodor, Lukas, Magnus and Pieter

Altmarket is not far by foot but it is clearly a different world from Neumarket. There is the same sense of hustle and bustle and the cry of vendors and the chatter of customers but the buildings are older, the clothes shabbier and the cobbles of the platz more worn. The Altmarket more commonly deals in food and animals and pots and pans and as Fyodor, Lukas, Magnus and Pieter enter the great irregular square that is the market proper they are greeted by the warm and rich aroma of cattle, horses, pigs and goats.

Still there are a few stately buildings around and a little off the market itself lies Nordenulricstrasse and on it a tall, narrow building with dark wooden beams and a shingled roof with a painted wooden sign reading 'Mayer Brothers Trading Company'.

The heavy oak door has a small brass bell hanging beside it and Lukas rings it. After several moments the door creaks open to reveal a tired looking halfling who looks like servant in dark clothing. He eyes everyone with un-halfling like mournfulness for a moment before saying: "May I help you?"
Game Master
GM, 323 posts
Mon 12 Dec 2022
at 12:25
  • msg #179

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Harkrin 'Klinka'

Painful as it was parting with his hard won coin Klinka at least has to admit his skullcap and leather jack feel well made and secure. It might not fully stop a beastman's axe but it couldn't hurt.

Partially retracing his steps the dwarf makes his way to the Neumarket district - even as a stranger to the city it is impossible to get lost en-route simply because the market makes that much noise.

There is still a heavy crowd around the statue of the Emperor Magnus in the southern half of the square but Klinka manages to squeeze through. He doesn't see his companions but he does here someone reading out the various notices for their illiterate friends:

quote:
WANTED: GENTLEMEN AND LADIES OF COURAGE, INTELLIGENCE AND RESOURCEFULNESS FOR SCIENTIFIC EXPEDITION.
APPLY THE COLLEGIUM THEOLOGICA


quote:
Missing,

Klaus König, 25, beloved fiance of Klara Lang of 31 Siegesstraße, Grafsmund.

Last seen in the Freiburg. Great reward promised!


quote:
WANTED

Frieda Schäfer, 28, notorious charlatan and thief,

Reward - ten gold crowns dead, twenty gold crowns alive if she is presented to the Eastgate watch station.


quote:
Learn the Mysteries of the East at the Feet of a Master!

The Great Magician Tang Wei once advisor to the Emperor of Cathay himself requires assistants!

Pay! Excitement! Travel Opportunities!

Apply the Cat and Swan Inn


quote:
Looking for gold and excitement? Join Immelmann's Irregulars today! Good pay, good opportunities. Apply at the Greedy Goblin, Attquartier.

P.S. No Elves and no Halflings unless applying for the post of company cook.


quote:
Bodyguards, caravan escorts, messangers and general staff wanted for the Mayer Brothers Trading Company. Promotion prospects excellent for the loyal and capable. Room and board provided.

Apply Pavel or Kasmir Mayer, 12 Nordenulricstrasse, Altmarket


quote:
Baroness Brandt's Twelfth Annual Geheimnistag Masquerade

One hundred crown prize for the best costume!

By invitation or guest only!

Lukas Kohl
player, 177 posts
Human, Charcoal Burner
Wounds 4 / 10
Mon 12 Dec 2022
at 21:12
  • msg #180

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"Hello," said Lukas rather confidently and cheerily to the halfling at the door.  "Are either of the Mayer brothers home?
 We're here to enquire about offering our services."  With his clean face and big city swagger Lukas tried to give the air of one potentially offering to work for the Mayers rather than begging for work.  With the rest of their group at the door he was sure the surprisingly dour halfling would hurry to his masters at such a fine body of men for the kind of work the Mayers may need.
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 163 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Wed 14 Dec 2022
at 11:12
  • msg #181

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

In his new leather jack and skullcap Klinka looked almost presentable (or maybe it was because the cap covered some of the scars on his head). He seemed in a better mood than in the morning and followed his companions to the Meyers whistling quietly and playing with his chisel.

He nodded to the halfling and added "We've got plenty of experience with all sorts of jobs. We fought beastmen, mutants, wolves and gobbos. And humans, of course, but they were the easiest ones."
Kasmir Mayer
NPC, 1 post
Thu 15 Dec 2022
at 22:57
  • msg #182

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

The mournful halfling doesn't raise a smile but simply nods. "This way gentlemen."

Entering the building the party is led through a long wood panelled entry hall and up a flight of stairs. The immediate impression speaks of wealth - the marbled Tlean tiles of the floor, the rich dark wood of the hall, the ornately carved bannister, the fine quality window work allowing light into the interior. However it quickly becomes apparent that there are things missing. Here the slightly different colouring of the wood suggests a now missing painting hung on that wall. There there is a neat bronze clasp that presumably once held a lamp or candle.

The halfling reaches a door on the landing and raps his knuckles on it. A second later a masculine voice echoes out:

"Come in!"

The haling reaches up and opens the door. Inside is what obviously an office, as every square shelf and space of desk is buried beneath scrolls of parchment. A man is seated at the desk who was obviously in the middle of writing something in a leather bound book - the quill it's nib wet with ink is still in his right hand.

"Ah, I assume you are here about the job? I'm Kasmir Mayer. Welcome to Mayer Brothers Trading Company - let me get a better look at you!"

Kasmir stands up and walks over. His expression and tone are welcoming but there are also traces of dark circles under his eyes and his fine clothes look like they've been slept in. He's probably under thirty yet already there are the hint of lines in what is probably normally a handsome and youthful face.
Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 158 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:6/10
Fri 16 Dec 2022
at 00:16
  • msg #183

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

[Language unknown: "Preetintma Lesthohas. O ll ec Ntthec th mecall moev th wasallive, Dayallort, Telllo ofck Atofbe. Pr p eresro of mo i ncadla eimaellefi, loill etmiho rese itplno ast u un waic ndheecreom."] Fyodor says loudly and laughs.


Switching to Reikspiel he continues "We see your note at market. We interested in work. "
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 164 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Sat 17 Dec 2022
at 15:52
  • msg #184

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"We don't always look like this, you know." Klinka explained. "It's just happened to be our yearly bath day yesterday and we didn't want to miss it. Even if it means we are looking a bit less respectable for this particular job. Speaking of which - what is it about?"
Magnus Eshbern
player, 20 posts
Sun 18 Dec 2022
at 00:07
  • msg #185

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Magnus glided in silently behind the others, calmly viewing the interior of the building as he moved inside.

While following the others he noted that there were items missing from the otherwise richly designed interior. If his suspicions were correct it would appear the trading company was not doing so well, which could put their payment for any work done in jeopardy.

"Well met ser Kasmir," Magnus replied softly as the man walked over to them, noting his slept in cloths and circles under his eyes. "You seem...tired. Are the Mayer Brothers not doing too well at the moment?"
Pieter Marik
player, 159 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Sun 18 Dec 2022
at 21:04
  • msg #186

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

For now, Pieter is happy for Lukas and Magnus to take the lead; indeed, he keeps to the back of their group as they enter the Mayer Brother's richly appointed room. It seems his informant was correct - the brothers, previously swimming in wealth, have hit upon a moment of crisis. At the back, he offers a wan smile
Kasmir Mayer
NPC, 2 posts
Mon 19 Dec 2022
at 14:30
  • msg #187

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Kasmir looks at Fyodor in surprise, before answering in Kiselvarian: [Language unknown: "Ate nc ekno T wepro!"]

Switching back to Reikspiel he continues. "Well met, and don't worry master dwarf I shan't hold your bath against you," Kasmir says, a faint smile appearing on his face. "And yes I can't deny business is not quite as it was but we are far from done yet. My brother and I are looking to hire people of various talents to act as guards, agents, scouts and so on. Quite bluntly we are not currently in the position to retain dozens of specialists in our business so better gentlemen who can handle themselves in any situation."

He walks over to a shelf and retries a bottle of what Fyodor immediately recognises as vodka as well as several shot glasses which he proceeds to fill. As Kasmir is doing so he continues speaking. "Tradtionally my brother and I and our father before us imported goods from the North. At least we did before the Chaos invasion... I don't suppose you had experience of the war itself did you?"
Magnus Eshbern
player, 21 posts
Mon 19 Dec 2022
at 18:55
  • msg #188

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Leaning on his staff with both hands Magnus studied Kasmir intently for a few moments as he poured the vodka before replying, "I cannot claim to speak for my companions, but I have no direct experience in the war. I do have other talents, not the least of which is letters and words, which I can use to good effect...if the pay is worthwhile."

Raising a hand he declined the proffered drink. "I prefer to keep my mind clear, especially when doing business," he explained politely.
Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 159 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:6/10
Tue 20 Dec 2022
at 15:33
  • msg #189

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Fyodor's face grew dark and his usual jovial demeanor disappeared as the war was mentioned. He looked lost in thought for a bit and then grabbed one of the filled shot glass, said something in Kislev [Language unknown: "A we lineauwheand it trho Adwaheus."] and emptied the glass.


Signaling to Kasmir for a refill he also leaned over and grabbed Magnus shot. Pointing at the vodka "See clear. Clear mind too." he says with a grin that has become one of the large mans characteristics.
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 166 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Tue 20 Dec 2022
at 15:54
  • msg #190

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Klinka drank vodka as if it was water, then turned back to their prospective employer. "We've seen the effects of war and experienced them on our way from Unterwald. Escorted a whole column of civilians from there, fighting off beastmen and elves, greenskin and wolves. Avoided too many casualties. Of course our enemies were not that lucky." he rested his hand on his axe to add more weight to his words.
Lukas Kohl
player, 180 posts
Human, Charcoal Burner
Wounds 4 / 10
Tue 20 Dec 2022
at 20:23
  • msg #191

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Lukas raised the small glass to his host and toasted, "Thank you for your hospitality Herr Mayer.  To you and your family's health and prosperity."  He drank the spirit in one like Harkrin and Fyodor, which seemed to be the custom (he'd never drank anything other than ale and beer) and thinking it not bad he smiled as he placed the glass back on the table.  What Kasmir may not have saw is Lukas clench his fist, constrict his throat and slightly widen his eyes as his throat burned with the liquor.

Trying not to show he was unaccustomed to such a delicacy he paused for a moment as Harkrin told of their experience.  Was it the company of men, the need for work, or just the loosening of tongues which came with alcohol it was hard to say?

"My friend is understating our role a little.  I'm not a fighter, but I'm loyal to those I trust and brave when I have something to believe in.  Have you heard of the siege of Untergard?  The men you see before you with the help of the town Watch formed a civilian militia that keep the beastherd at bay for a week before the Imperial Army arrived and took the fight to them.  We're well organised and solid defenders.  We even had one of those letters from Count Todbringer saying how we were heroes."  (It didn't really matter that not all of them had been involved in the siege...)

"Then, as my dwarf friend mentioned, we escorted the remaining three hundred or so townsfolk to Middenheim making sure neither beastman, elf, goblin, or mutant got anywhere close."  Lukas did not want to mention the magical wolves.  He was still hurt and he missed his friend even after her witchery.  "Only a couple of casualities and they were the ones who didn't do what we said and did there own thing."

"So, we're in Middenheim now.  Got a few opportunties here and there but we saw your sign and we thought, 'these sound like men we could work for...', if the work and price is right of course."
Kasimir Mayer
NPC, 3 posts
Wed 21 Dec 2022
at 13:41
  • msg #192

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Kasimir looks solemn for a moment as Fyodor makes his toast, then downs his own vodka. "Please take a seat."

That is easier said than done. There are chairs in the room but they are hidden beneath the piles of parchment and books that are absolutely everywhere. Eventually after some scrambling and shoving everyone who wishes to sit is able too.

"You sound like you have been through a lot and I'm glad at least one of you is a man of letters into the bargain. As for the issue of pay... well... as you have gathered our finances are not what they were. I can offer room and board and eight shillings a week. It is not the richest job you'll ever have I confess, but once our stock recovers I'll see your wages increased in kind, along with a hefty loyalty bonus for sticking with us. There is also some standard equipment we might be able to provide."

OOC: Eight shillings a week each would be fairly low pay, though room and board does make it slightly more attractive.
Lukas Kohl
player, 182 posts
Human, Charcoal Burner
Wounds 4 / 10
Wed 21 Dec 2022
at 19:09
  • msg #193

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"It's a generous offer Herr Mayer, and one we'll definitely consider," nodded Lukas.  He'd heard rumours that in big cities nobody ever took the first offer and always haggled up or down in price, but to be honest eight shillings a week sounded like an awful lot of money when a roof over the head and food in the belly were included.  He couldn't, and wouldn't speak for the others but the offer would likely bring a little bit of stability to him and his new life in Middenheim, and everything about guarding and scouting seemed quite easy.

"I can work for a man who values loyalty," Lukas agreed, making it perhaps clear it was a two way street.  He was still a little bit curious over the 'slightly-less-legal' elements of the Mayers business.  There was no direct way to ask, after all they were honest men meeting an honest merchant asking about a job, but he did try to probe a little gently.

"There's always an element of risk in these kind of jobs aren't they?" he said matter-of-factly, "Are there any special risks we need to think about if we're working with you?  Don't want to tread on anyone's toes or anything."

He didn't expect Herr Mayer to tell of his business dealings, allies and enemies to total strangers but one never knew if one didn't ask, did they?
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 168 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Wed 21 Dec 2022
at 20:18
  • msg #194

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"Eight shillings? Hm! What exactly would you expect us to do for that pay?" Klinka asked, trying not to sound rude. "The message you left on the board was not clear as to what your prospective employees would have to do, Herr Mayer. What is exactly you and your brother do right now and how can we help you with improving your fortunes?"

It was perhaps not the Umgi way of putting things, but Klinka didn't want to waste another hour on pleasantries and smalltalk. If the job is not for them, then they would still have time to review their options and search for a different employer.
Pieter Marik
player, 162 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Thu 22 Dec 2022
at 10:50
  • msg #195

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Pieter smiled at the offer from Kasimir, though it was perhaps more in confirmation of the Brother's reduced state then at the salary offered. He was pleased at the opportunity, however - room, board, a place at the heart of their operation and - he presumed - the protective camaraderie they might enjoy from their other employees, "You would not begrude a fellow working an odd job, here and there, to supplement such an income, Herr Mayer?"
Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 161 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:6/10
Thu 22 Dec 2022
at 16:34
  • msg #196

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Fyodor scratched his bearded chin, he had no idea how much tickets for Tatiana's show would be. If they got room and board it was one less expense to worry about and a safe haven. It could be the Mayer brothers had contacts that could get tickets cheaper. And the vodka was pretty good.


Fyodor gestured for a refill. "Vodka and beer included in room and board?" he asked.
Kasimir Mayer
NPC, 4 posts
Sat 24 Dec 2022
at 10:56
  • msg #197

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Kasimir patiently listened to everyone speak before replying.

First speaking to Lukas and Klinka: "It is a fair questions you ask. Truthfully I don't know exactly what you will be doing next week or next month, though I can guess. We're very short of good men and we'll probably need you as bodyguards, investigators and representatives - assuming you are up to it. For the moment though nothing too complicated; there is a warehouse in the Altquarter that needs guarding tonight. If you can manage that we can consider it proof of both loyalty and ability."

Turning to Pieter he smiles and nods: "So long as it doesn't make trouble for us you can do just that."

And Fyodor's question he actually laughs: "A man who enjoys life! Yes my towering friend a small supply of both is included in your board!"
Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 162 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:6/10
Sun 25 Dec 2022
at 06:59
  • msg #198

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

The big warrior grins. "Me in.Da!"
Pieter Marik
player, 164 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Sun 25 Dec 2022
at 14:10
  • msg #199

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

“I’m in”, spoke Pieter softly with a nod, “point us to this warehouse and what has it needing a guard tonight?”
Lukas Kohl
player, 183 posts
Human, Charcoal Burner
Wounds 4 / 10
Mon 26 Dec 2022
at 10:08
  • msg #200

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"Me too," agreed Lukas, glad at least there was bed and board on offer on the city whilst they found their bearings.  Guarding a warehouse seemed straightforward enough.
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 169 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Mon 26 Dec 2022
at 10:34
  • msg #201

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Klinka nodded in agreement. "Aye, we can definitely keep an eye on that warehouse for you. Sounds simple enough."
Magnus Eshbern
player, 23 posts
Tue 27 Dec 2022
at 20:58
  • msg #202

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Magnus nodded in the affirmative along with his companions before asking curiously, "What exactly is in this warehouse, that requires guarding, and what sort of threat are you expecting? I take it there have been threats or attempts before?"

The fact that Kasimir was not going to the Watch for help was telling in of itself that the goods were likely of a...dubious nature. However, the corruption in the Watch in the Empire's cities should never be underestimated.
Kasimir Mayer
NPC, 5 posts
Fri 30 Dec 2022
at 00:09
  • msg #203

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"There may be some undesirable types looking around," Kasimir admits. "Local competitor's and so on. The warehouse itself is here in Altmarket and currently holds a consignment of fox furs from Kislev that arrived before the war picked up."

The merchant puts his empty shotglass back on his desk and grins. Despite his obvious tiredness there is clearly still a streak of the charmer to him. "If any of you were ladies I'd offer a fox stole as an additional bonus, but since none of you are the fairer sex... at least not unless you are hiding it well... that particular bonus may be inappropriate."
Pieter Marik
player, 166 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Fri 30 Dec 2022
at 12:12
  • msg #204

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Glancing at Fyodor, Pieter smiled, "Perhaps there is an opportunity there, Herr Mayer; a fox fur stole of the right quality would prove a fine gift for a socialite of high standing... and perhaps increase the appeal of such items"
Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 163 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:6/10
Sat 31 Dec 2022
at 18:35
  • msg #205

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Fyodor nods in agreement with Pieter. He had been thinking the same.

[Language unknown: "Ave, ol ineerevorsan outevesta ectse urare ilaslo aveintcon m preingati. I nolo earven'stronsred p erecomthi estai allonsson ilacforeme p hoain omolni Orttheereres Wincutthbe utwas ngvir ngprck e verwi atenni isne a inmo nd any ecmiispang."]
Kasimir Mayer
NPC, 6 posts
Tue 3 Jan 2023
at 01:28
  • msg #206

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Kasimir looks relieved. "Excellent. In that case I'll show you your quarters."

The merchant apparently does not mean that literally as he picks up a bell from the desk and rings. A few moments later the halfling servant shuffles into the room. "Ah Quillberry, these gentlmen will be staying. Please show to their new quarters."

Said new quarters are across the landing and up another flight of stairs. On this landing there are two doors facing each other, with a third door at the end of the short landing.

The door to the right has two beds and a large window overlooking the street. It is plainly furnished with bare wooden floors but looks in good enough shape and the beds look reasonably comfortable. Above each bed is a shelf for personal belongings and between them is a large and currently empty wooden chest.



The door to the left has a very similar design and contents, though here the window overlooks a tiny cobbled square with a well.

Finally Quillberry leads the group to the far door which opens to a cramped private room with a single bed. A small circular window offers a limited view (except of the sky) but does admit fresh air.

"Your quarters gentlemen," the halfling intones gloomily.
Lukas Kohl
player, 186 posts
Human, Charcoal Burner
Wounds 4 / 10
Tue 3 Jan 2023
at 12:34
  • msg #207

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Lukas walked in the rooms, his eyes somewhat wide with awe.  He had grown up in little more than a hovel with only the most basic amenities so this room was pretty fancy in his eyes.

"We get to live here, and be fed, and paid on top of that, just for guarding a warehouse?" he exclaimed rather incredulously.  He grabbed a bed near the window overlooking the street.  Having lived alone in the forest for so long a communal room and noise from the street was quite exciting rather than an imposition.

"Since we are going to be staying we should probably take care of delivering that icon for Father Dietrich.  He wouldn't want us to hold on to it.  You never know we may get a reward."
Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 166 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:6/10
Tue 3 Jan 2023
at 15:28
  • msg #208

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Fyodor nodded in agreement with Lukas and dumped his backpack on the second bed.

"Da." he grunted as he dug through his items for his kvas. Finding it he took a quick swig of it and offered it to his friends too.
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 172 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Tue 3 Jan 2023
at 15:48
  • msg #209

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"Har, let's not get too enthusiastic about this thing. They may still serve oats for breakfast." Klinka grumbled with a rare smile on his face. He peered into the other rooms. "Well, Umgi friends, do you want to risk sleeping with a dwarf, or shall I take the single room?" he asked Pieter and Magnus.

"Guarding jobs can only sound easy. Don't forget our trip to this place was meant to be just another guarding job." he pointed out to Lukas.

"Name's Klinka." the dwarf finally turned to the halfling, offering him a hand. "You don't look happy to have us around here, friend."
Pieter Marik
player, 167 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Wed 4 Jan 2023
at 06:31
  • msg #210

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"Depends on how much you snore when you're not sleeping under the stars, Herr Dwarf", observed Pieter softly, though without any trace of rancour. Like Lukas, the rooms brought their own memories - huddling in makeshifts camps to avoid the local militias, with meagre rations or whatever he'd been able to steal. He said nothing more regards the rooms, each having their downsides, and letting Magnus take his pick
Magnus Eshbern
player, 25 posts
Sun 8 Jan 2023
at 22:21
  • msg #211

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Magnus smiled at the banter between the others, still ruminating about their recently accepted contract, and how Kasimir had deftly evaded his queries.

No doubt, the assignment would be more...complicated than he had let on.

For now though, he had a room to pick. Glancing at Harkrin with a bemused expression the mage said, "As much as I like privacy, I must admit the single room appears to be rather dwarven sized. I will be happy to bunk with Pieter."

Aside from some things he wanted to discuss with Pieter, it would also allow him to inspect the sword further, if Pieter allowed.
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 173 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Tue 10 Jan 2023
at 09:54
  • msg #212

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"Dwarven size, har!" Klinka snorted. "You wish some things you have were also dwarven size, wizard!" he added with another hint of a smile. It appeared that either his recent shopping or dealings he had had with other dwarves significantly improved Klinka's mood.


"Let's make ourselves comfortable and return that stuff we are supposed to return." he offered. "Then we can plan our shifts at guarding the warehouse."

Although Klinka also wanted to have a chat with Pieter, that could wait.
Pieter Marik
player, 168 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Wed 11 Jan 2023
at 13:11
  • msg #213

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Pieter chuckled at the dwarf's acerbic humour and, with everything decided, nabbed the bed nearer the door. He had few enough possessions and fewer he intended to leave here
Game Master
GM, 336 posts
Mon 16 Jan 2023
at 11:03
  • msg #214

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

The halfling shakes Klinka's hand in a half hearted fashion. 'My name is Quillberry and I am Herr Mayer's valet. For now anyway. I hope you enjoy your rooms sirs, you might not have them for long. They had to fire the head chef last week,'

Quillberry pauses and with a heartbreaking sob adds. 'Couldn't afford him Herr Mayer says!' Another sniff and he added. 'They hired a local girl. When Monsieur Lebanc was here he always made these delicious flaky Bretonnian pastries. I don't think the new girl has ever even seen a pastry!'

Eventually after more sobbing and complaining Quillberry pulls himself together enough to depart with a final sniffled 'good luck'.

It is now well past noon judging by the light dappling in through the windows. After settling who gets which room the party departs the Mayer Brothers offices and heads for the Freiburg district, where they have heard the temple to Sigmar is located.

Freiburg lies to the north bordered by the expanse of the Great Park to it's south, an oasis of greenery in bustling urban Middenheim. Freiburg proper is a pleasant looking area with broad avenues crisscrossed by narrower but equally clean small streets and the standard tall and narrow gabled buildings the party has become familiar with in the city. The houses and businesses here may not reflect the richest of the rich but it is prosperous looking, and with a decided scholastic bent. Many of the city's wizards, priests and academics call this district home and you pass several bookshops - an extraordinary exotic concept to most of the party!

Magnus knows this part of the city. The Guild of Wizards and Alchemists is near, it's collection of spires and turrets poking into the skyline, their rooftiles a striking blue creating an immediately recognisable landmark.

However even the Guild is dwarfed by the bulk of the Temple of Sigmar. An imposing stone structure in the Third Imperial style it might be the second largest building any of the party have seen - for this is still Middenheim and the Temple of Ulric is grander yet.

The morning services have long since finished and the evening services are still some way away so the temple proper is mostly empty. As the party enters a few junior initiates in grey cassocks are sweeping the nave with their brooms.
Pieter Marik
player, 170 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Mon 16 Jan 2023
at 14:49
  • msg #215

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

As they enter, Pieter unconsciously makes the sign of Sigmar, perhaps unnerved by the familiar territory and roving packs of scholars and priests. Where in the woods, he was confident and brash, here he is somewhat subdued and he glances over to Magnus and Lukas
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 175 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Mon 16 Jan 2023
at 15:15
  • msg #216

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Klinka looked around the building, knocking at the stone walls as they passed by. "Har. Not bad for Umgi work. I won't be surprised to find marks of a dwarven stonemason somewhere around. Probably hidden behind some paint to cover the fact my kind helped to build this place."

"So, who are we looking for around here? Anyone important?" he asked his companions, watching the initiates as they hurried around the temple.
Magnus Eshbern
player, 27 posts
Mon 16 Jan 2023
at 20:20
  • msg #217

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Though Magnus knew the are well enough, he too had never visited the temple before, not really being the religious sort nor having any other need to. He had seen it many times during his visit to and fro from the guild, and so was easily able to lead the others to it.

"I am still not sure what your business is here, but given that the evening services are a few hours away, we should be able to complete our business swiftly, before the unwashed hordes arrive," he remarked wryly.

Glancing towards one of the initiates Magnus gestured towards their general direction and added, "Any one of these initiates should be able to provide us with directions and information."
Lukas Kohl
player, 189 posts
Human, Charcoal Burner
Wounds 4 / 10
Tue 17 Jan 2023
at 12:28
  • msg #218

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Lukas, feeling quite emboldened and brave in this majestic monument to the hero of the Empire somewhat meekly walked up to one of the initiates sweeping up.

"Excuse me," he said meekly, half genuflecting which had the bizarre appearance of a curtsey, rather than a bow.  "Are you allowed to speak?"

Lukas instantly felt stupid because Father Dietrich spoke all the time and was a lovely man, but something about the place held Lukas in awe.  He had never been in a building as large as this.  If someone told him it was the world's biggest building he would have most certainly agreed.

"Can we speak to someone important please?  A friend of ours was a priest and his dying wish was to bring something sacred here.  It would help rest his soul if we could do it for him."
Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 167 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:6/10
Tue 17 Jan 2023
at 18:59
  • msg #219

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Fyodor stays quiet in the back ground, very impressed by the size of the temple.
Game Master
GM, 338 posts
Wed 25 Jan 2023
at 23:31
  • msg #220

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

One of the initiates looks up from his broom. The lad looked all skin and bones for a would be priest of such a martial deity but then not every Sigmarite clergy was a hammer wielding warrior. Lukas gets the impression the lad is happy to the excuse of a few minutes off sweeping the floor.

'Oh, you'll be wanting Father Morten. He works at the Collegium Theologica most mornings but he has an office in the vestry here and he should be here now.'

The initiate points out a small wooden door in the right side of the temple. Sure enough knocking and entering the party find themselves confronted by a small office with shelves of neatly lined books and candles in holders providing an amber light. Seated behind an ash desk is a is a shortish man in his early forties, with thinning grey-brown hair and a round, rather jolly looking face.

Looking up he smiles pleasantly. 'Hello. How may I help you?'
Magnus Eshbern
player, 28 posts
Sat 28 Jan 2023
at 07:03
  • msg #221

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Magnus entered the small office along with the others and took a seat before they filled up, placing his staff upright in front of him and holding onto it loosely with both hands.

Gazing at Father Morten from beneath his hood, Magnus offered a small courteous smile in return and said, "Well met. I am Magnus, a member of the College of Wizardry. My companions here are newly arrived in the city and wish to submit a relic unto your custody."

Leaning back he waited for the others to take over the conversation, as it had been their friend who had sent them on this quest. Magnus was curious to hear the tale himself, and how the man died.
Lukas Kohl
player, 190 posts
Human, Charcoal Burner
Wounds 4 / 10
Sat 28 Jan 2023
at 20:36
  • msg #222

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"It was Father Dietrich's, of Untergard.  Do you know him?" Lukas asked, somewhat naively assuming that all priests of Sigmar knew each other.  "He was a good man, who led a pious life, and he cared for the townsfolk in his flock."  Lukas remembered how ghastly his last moments were and shuddered at the memory.  "He died in a horrible way.  In the exodus to Middenehim he fell into a foul greenskin trap that killed him.  We recovered him, and buried him with dignity.  His dying wish was to return something special to you here.  We're poud to honour him in this way."

He glanced over to Pieter, who was carrying the relic on his person.
Pieter Marik
player, 171 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Mon 30 Jan 2023
at 15:18
  • msg #223

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Caught in his own contemplation like an errant choirboy, Pieter pasted on a smile, his nervousness at odds with the gruff hardened exterior he presented. After a moment, he nodded, removing the relic from where he had tucked it - carefully wrapped - into his belt, and carefully unfolding the cloth held it out to the Sigmarite, "He took care of the folk of Untergard, best I knew"
Father Morten
NPC, 1 post
Fri 3 Feb 2023
at 22:49
  • msg #224

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

The Sigmarite priest's faces falls a the news of Father Dietrich's passing. "I fear I did not know him well my son but we exchanged letters. The Middenland soil can be stony for those who favour other gods above Ulric and I know he worked hard for his flock. He shall be much missed - and you do him proud to honour his wishes."

Father Morten solemnly accepts the relic from Pieter and has he does so his expression changes from one of sorrow to one of surprise, and then one of excitement.

"Amazing!" he says."This is the oldest icon of Sigmar I’ve ever seen! Just look at the gold-work round the edges—that’s Dwarfen, I’m sure of it. And the style of the costume—this is old enough to have been drawn from life! You’ve brought us a very great treasure indeed, and on behalf of the Temple, thank you very much!"

NB: About four inches square, the icon is painted on wood, its colours darkened by the passing of many centuries. Its ornate gold and iron frame obscures much of the picture, but the area in the centre is clear, showing a figure of a mighty warrior in the dress of the ancient Unberogen tribe, his hand resting on the haft of a great warhammer.


Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 168 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:6/10
Fri 3 Feb 2023
at 23:17
  • msg #225

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Fyodor leaned over the dwarf to see the relic.

"Da, beautiful. Sigmar in picture?" he asked curiously.
Magnus Eshbern
player, 29 posts
Sun 5 Feb 2023
at 21:36
  • msg #226

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Magnus was pleased the priest found the relic to be of value, but resisted the urge to say anything. Peering at the wooden item from beneath his cowl, Magnus only hoped the others would realize the value of what they had given, and seek to gain something valuable in return from the priest, even if it were but a favor.
Pieter Marik
player, 172 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Mon 6 Feb 2023
at 21:09
  • msg #227

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"Sometimes the most precious things can be found in the humblest home", observed Pieter, speaking as-if quoting. He scowled a little at himself as he found himself doing so, forcing a smile for Father Morten
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 176 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Tue 7 Feb 2023
at 07:47
  • msg #228

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Klinka remained silent, letting his friends handle the conversation with the priest. He showed some interest in the icon, though, carefully looking at the frame and muttering something to himself about "solid Dawi work".
Lukas Kohl
player, 191 posts
Human, Charcoal Burner
Wounds 4 / 10
Tue 7 Feb 2023
at 12:58
  • msg #229

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"I am glad that we have brought such a treasure to you," said Lukas.  "I think my friend's soul will rest knowing the icon is with you.  And I hope Sigmar will look upon is favourably should we ever be in need."  He wasn't quite brave enough, now coarse enough in this holy place to tell the priest to 'pay up' but he hoped their kindness would be recognised.

"It looks valuable," said Lukas, even though anything golden would look valuable to him, "and I don't mean in terms of gold, more what it means to you and those of the faith.  I don't want to speak ill of the dead for Father Dietrich was my friend," (acquaintance really), "Why would he keep something so valuable upon his person?  It must belong somewhere safe and not in a town priest's vestments.  Or would it be true to say that this relic, the sign of the Hammer kept him safe?  Rather than something to protect, the relic protected him and the town?"

Lukas was pretty much guessed Sigmarite lore and values being far closer to Ulric and the Old Gods.  His theory sounded good but it didn't save Untergard and it didn't stop Father Dietrich getting a spike through the guts but Lukas felt that particular blasphemy was best kept to himself.
Father Morten
NPC, 2 posts
Thu 9 Feb 2023
at 12:57
  • msg #230

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Father Morten takes a moment to reply, still studying the icon with awe, turning it over and over with his long, ink stained fingers.

"Well I'll have to consult my books but unless I'm much mistaken this particular relic would have been in the possession of Graf Rudi Sternhauer during Magnus the Pious's War Against Chaos. The Graf was killed during the Battle of Kislev and I seem to recall reading many of possessions were granted to his townsfolk under the terms of his will rather than his cousin who inherited the title and the lands. I believe the Sternhauers still rule those lands and they are probably seething something so valuable ended in Untergard."

Evidently some of Lukas's hints have filtered through to the scholar priest since he abruptly looks embarrassed and rings a brass bell on a hook on the wall. Moments later the door opens and an initiate enters.

"Ah Brother Dietz, please see these gentlemen are suitably rewarded for their troubles. They have restored a valuable icon that could very easily have been lost or destroyed."

Dietz nods obediently and vanishes back out the office door. Father Morten gets to his feet and walks over to shake each of your hands. His excited smile looks almost absurdly giddy on his older face. "I really cannot thank you enough gentlemen Sigmar watch over you my friends!"

Sure enough Dietz returns carrying five money pouches that clink and feel satisfyingly heavy as he drops them into your palms. He also hands over five small silver hammer pendants on leather thongs - you notice both Father Morten and Brother Dietz are wearing them, as were the initiates you met coming here.

"A mark of Sigmar's favour," Father Morten explains affably.
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 177 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Thu 9 Feb 2023
at 13:21
  • msg #231

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"I think you could extend your gratitude to people of Untergard, Herr Father." Klinka suggested, puzzled by titles of human priests. "They were the main reason we came to Middenheim and also the reason why we came across the icon. While we can take care of ourselves, many of them are not so resourceful."

It was the first time Klinka expressed any sympathy towards people they had escorted. "If the relic is as valuable to your faith as you say, then a few dozen poor souls to take care of within the walls of this magnificent temple would certainly not make a significant... issue." he pointed out, shaking priest's hand and putting the money into his pocket. "I've met with plenty of sympathy from my dwarf cousins in this place and I would hate to think that my Umgi friends don't have that much luck only because they are poor and without the right skills to impress anyone."

Pointing at Lukas, he added "Don't you think that Father Dietrich would have brought his little flock directly to the temple and made sure they are properly taken care of? This is, after all, what priests are for, are they not, Herr Father?"
Pieter Marik
player, 173 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Thu 9 Feb 2023
at 22:34
  • msg #232

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Pieter surpressed a smile at Klinka's subtle remonstration, taking both the coin and the pendant; such trinkets might be useful in the future
Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 169 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:6/10
Fri 10 Feb 2023
at 17:24
  • msg #233

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Fyodor thanked Brother Deitz heartily and slid both the pendant and the bag into his tunic.

He wasn't sure if there was anything else they wanted to discuss with the priest so he waited in silence to see what the priests had to say.
Lukas Kohl
player, 192 posts
Human, Charcoal Burner
Wounds 4 / 10
Fri 10 Feb 2023
at 20:16
  • msg #234

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"You're most kind Father," said Lukas, first noticeably picking the pendant up and carefully tying it around his neck and only then putting the pouch of coins in his bag.  He felt no need to be rude and have a look in the bag, but it definitely felt heavy.  (Whilst Lukas was keen to show a level of respect inside the temple he would likely take off the pendant once out of sight of the holy place).

Turning to Harkrin Lukas nodded, "my friend is right.  I am certain Father Dietrich would have brought them here to be protected by the sign of the Hammer.  They are good people, strong, honest and hard working.  Some would make good Initiates but the survivors were both a pious and hardy, yet decent stock.  I can vouch for them, and so can my friend Captain Schiller who was close to Father Dietrich and led them here.  If comfort and work could be given to them they'll be loyal in the battles against chaos to come."

Lukas was keen to press Harkrin's claim for the people, and in this holy place Sigmar surely did unite dwarf and man.
Father Morten
NPC, 3 posts
Sat 11 Feb 2023
at 01:36
  • msg #235

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Father Morten looks grave. "Well, I can see what we can do but I suspect the situation might be difficult. The Church of Sigmar has a... well complex relationship with the Elector Count and the Cult of Ulric and such interference, even if well intentioned will excite a few nerves."

He glances at Lukas specifically, a shrewd look in his eyes. "Indeed, from what I recall from Faither Dietrich's letters many of your fellow townsfolk are in any case closer to Ulric and might well turn down any offers of aid from us. There are no folk prouder than a Middenlander, especially when he has lost everything else."

He smiled sadly. "As it happens you are not the first group to request such assistance. You have heard that Wolfenburg was sacked during the war against the Chaos barbarians? Well there are thousands of Ostland refugees in a shanty town north-east of the city. I try to steer clear of politics but I can feel it in my bones that there is trouble brewing there, especially now that the enemy has been defeated."
Pieter Marik
player, 174 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Sat 11 Feb 2023
at 13:31
  • msg #236

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

“What kind of trouble”, asked Pieter softly, measuring the pendant on his hand idly. He smelled danger, or opportunity, the two were much the same
Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 170 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:6/10
Sat 11 Feb 2023
at 20:05
  • msg #237

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Fyodor frowned, he hadn't heard the war was over.

"No longer war. Hah! They just route. Battle won. Not war." the Kislevite snorted. He had fought in many wars in his past and knew better than to celebrate too early.

OOC: Edited based on new knowledge
This message was last edited by the player at 17:14, Sun 12 Feb 2023.
Lukas Kohl
player, 193 posts
Human, Charcoal Burner
Wounds 4 / 10
Tue 14 Feb 2023
at 09:55
  • msg #238

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"My townsfolk are pious, and proud yes.  They are practical too, and whilst I am not in any position to make any appeal on their behalf I hope they will be regarded favourably by Sigmar when they need it."

Whether the priest thought Lukas meant the temple or the man ascended godhood himself wasn't going to be relevant.

"People behind walls often think the war is over.  Have we not just fled from a beastherd on the march.  If the war is over, then I am not sure the fighting has ceased.
But as my friend asks, what kind of trouble could possibly be brewing behind these city walls? "
Magnus Eshbern
player, 30 posts
Sun 19 Feb 2023
at 23:37
  • msg #239

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Magnus quietly accepted the coin pouch as well as the hammer, both objects disappearing within the folds of his robes.

He listened with interest to Morten's information; Magnus recalled seeing the refugees in the northern part of the town when he had passed by recently on an errand. However he had not asked his superiors on any information about them, and did not recall hearing about any rumors of trouble brewing.

Still, Pieter's question mirrored his own concerns and he waited expectantly for the priests' answer.
Father Morten
NPC, 4 posts
Wed 22 Feb 2023
at 23:13
  • msg #240

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Father Morten looked both surprised and a bit embarrassed.

"Well, it is really not for me to say," he said sheepishly, "but relations between the cults of Sigmar and Ulric have always been rocky and while there are thousands of Simarites in Middenheim the followers of Ulric are far more numerous still. This is the city of the White Wolf after all. Then you have the Ostlander refugees. As you may know Ostland is a bastion of Sigmar in the north of the Empire and relations between Middenland and Ostland have never been good. A lot of brawls have been going on between the locals here and the Wolfenburgers. If I were you I'd steer clear of the whole situation - I fear it won't get any calmer until Count Boris returns from chasing the Chaos barbarians and cracks a few of the thicker skulls together!"
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 179 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Thu 23 Feb 2023
at 06:43
  • msg #241

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"Or you can show that you don't care about whether people prefer Ulric or Sigmar and help people of Untergard. That would definitely make people thinking and ease some tensions." Klinka suggested. "From what you say there don't seem to be any particular grudge between your cult and that of Ulric, but refusing help may cause one. Or many."

"After all..." he added patting his pocket with the coin provided by the priest "...it's not that you cannot afford it, eh?"

The dwarf was getting annoyed with the priest and his unwillingness to do the right thing about the crisis the whole city faced. If his cult was not willing to help those in need, what was the point of worshipping his god?
Father Morten
NPC, 5 posts
Tue 28 Feb 2023
at 00:45
  • msg #242

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Father Morten's assistant notably bristled at the dwarf's rudeness and even the previously amiable priest looked a bit taken aback.

"We'll see what we can do," Father Morten says brusquely. "I apologise but I cannot speak any longer; have other business to attend to."

It is clear from the now frosty atmosphere that the audience is over.
Lukas Kohl
player, 195 posts
Human, Charcoal Burner
Wounds 4 / 10
Tue 28 Feb 2023
at 21:34
  • msg #243

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"Right, we won't take up anymore of your time," said Lukas more short than he intended.  "If our paths cross again, I hope it will be as trusted men."

Lukas didn't know how much the icon was worth and wouldn't know where to start if they had decided to sell it.  He was also sure in their collective pouches that they had more money than they'd ever seen before.  He'd placed his purse inside his breeches.  The safer his coin was the better.

"We are currently employed by the Mayer trading brothers.  If you need dependable men you can find us there."

With that, Lukas prepared to leave.

(OOC: Shall we go back to our rooms and see how much cash we have just got before we go to the warehouse in the evening?)
Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 172 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:6/10
Tue 28 Feb 2023
at 22:22
  • msg #244

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Fyodor wasn't really sure what had happened but the demeanor of the people in the room changed very fast.

He smiled and nodded to Father Morten and then exited the room. Once in the courtyard he waited for the others before heading towards the exit of the temple.
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 180 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Wed 1 Mar 2023
at 08:10
  • msg #245

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Klinka shrugged and looked at his companions as if he wanted to say "It was wort a try". Nodding to the priest and his assistant, he led the group outside, hoping he would never have to deal with any of human priests again.

"Well, at least it was profitable." he muttered, patting his pocket.
Game Master
GM, 342 posts
Thu 2 Mar 2023
at 14:09
  • msg #246

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

An investigation of the purses reveals that each contains 25 Gold Crowns, each coin stamped with the running wolf emblem of Middenheim. For several of the group is more money than they've ever had pass through their hands in their entire life before now.
Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 173 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:6/10
Thu 2 Mar 2023
at 17:10
  • msg #247

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Fyodors eyes light up and a big smile appears on his face.

"Vodka and Kvas. Ohh and...." he stops himself for a minute and shakes his head.

"Ticket money!" he says in a determined and firm voice as he shoves the purse back into the folds of his jerkin.

"What we do now? Rest before work?"
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 181 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Fri 3 Mar 2023
at 08:00
  • msg #248

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Klinka scratches his beard. "Maybe we should take a look at that warehouse in the daylight?" he suggested. "Then take some rest before our late night assignment?"
Lukas Kohl
player, 196 posts
Human, Charcoal Burner
Wounds 4 / 10
Fri 3 Mar 2023
at 08:11
  • msg #249

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"And find out the cost for tickets to the singing and new fancy clothes too," agreed Lukas, affirming Fyodor's hopes, now being richer than he had ever been before.

(OOC: Happy to check out the warehouse first of course)
Game Master
GM, 344 posts
Wed 8 Mar 2023
at 18:05
  • msg #250

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim



The warehouse is located in an older part of Altmarket, itself one of the older quarters of Middenheim. Truth be told the area looks like it has seen better days even if the group saw worse poverty and dirtier buildings in the Southgate-Ostwald District. There is a general air of decline, with older buildings and cracked plaster. The cobles on the streets have been worn smooth by generations of cartwheels, animal hooves and bootprints but at least today in the latest afternoon few people are about.

The actual building proper, an unglamourous two story half-timber structure is emblazoned with the legend 'Mayer Brothers' in black paint above the door frame. The wooden door is locked but at the party's earlier meeting with Kasmir the merchant had handed over an iron key (singular.) Unlocking it now the group steps into a dark, claustrophobic room rich with the scents of old straw, dry wood and mouse droppings.

There seem to be two stories with a wooden ladder disappearing up through a trapdoor. The ground floor at least is home to a collection of wooden crates and barrels.
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 183 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Thu 9 Mar 2023
at 08:53
  • msg #251

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"Not much to guard." Klinka grumbled as he gave the door a push. Then he walked around the inside of the warehouse looking for windows or other entrances. "Unless the stuff is Bugman's Special." he took a closer look at the barrels and crates.
Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 175 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:6/10
Thu 9 Mar 2023
at 19:00
  • msg #252

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

The large Kislevite entered the warehouse and like the dwarf investigated the windows, especially the ones the dwarf couldnt reach. Once he had secured those he exited the building and walked around it, checking for anything out of the normal.
Lukas Kohl
player, 198 posts
Human, Charcoal Burner
Wounds 4 / 10
Thu 9 Mar 2023
at 20:51
  • msg #253

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Lukas stamped his feet on the ground inside the warehouse and wrapped his arms around his chest.  He felt there was a chill in the air, or maybe after the grand temple of Sigmar the tired old building just felt a lot more enclosed, dirty and uncomfortable.  Still, it wasn't board and lodgings, it was going to be work and even this building was more spacious and cleaner than the hovel he grew up in.

"We should get a couple of lanterns so we're not sat in the pitch black all night, and in any case light in the windows will put off thieves I'm sure."

He walked around the warehouse surveying the ground and windows before turning his attention to the ladder to the second floor.

"I'm going to have a look up there," he said and after tentatively testing the sturdiness of the ladder and the rungs began to climb to have a look about.

(OOC:  Lukas doesn't really know what he's looking for because he isn't an expert but he is thinking, 'if I was a burglar, how would I get in'.  So, he's checking the sturdiness of the windows and if there are clear lines of sight down the street, he's seeing if the floor is solid and when he gets to the second floor will again be looking out the windows and the roof for sky lights etc.)
Pieter Marik
player, 176 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Sun 12 Mar 2023
at 17:25
  • msg #254

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Whilst the other's surveyed the innards of the warehouse, Pieter leaned carefully against the frame of the outer door and nonchalantly took in the street. His eyes swept slowly back and forth, watching for watchers and signs
Game Master
GM, 349 posts
Wed 15 Mar 2023
at 12:14
  • msg #255

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Pieter has a fine view of another warehouse across the street and a little further down what looks to be a wheelwright shop judging by the wooden cartwheel mounted as a sign over the door. The facing warehouse appears to not be in use - the doors are closed and the windows are full of dust and cobwebs - but the wheelwright is clearly doing business and Pieter observes a few customers passing by. None of them strike him as anything untoward.

Presently it begins to rain, a light but persistent drizzle.


Fyodor walks around the outside of the warehouse. On it's north side it joined to another building but to the south a narrow alley runs to the next street. Looking down it the big Kislevite startles a gray furred cat that meows at him reproachfully from atop an an old wooden barrel. Looking up Fyodor is greeted by the sheer wall of the warehouse and three or four windows, currently closed. The smell from the general rubbish in the alley would turn weaker stomachs but Fyodor sees nothing amiss.

Harkrin does discover an old oil lamp that seems like it might be serviceable. The barrels alas prove disappointing. Several of them are empty, and one is filled with wine that has all but turned to vinegar.

Lukas has better luck. Climbing up the ladder he finds the second floor seemingly much the same as the first with ancient looking crates and barrels. He does however notice something else: behind the crates and hidden beneath a dirty leather awning are a rack of fox pelts. There must be at least two dozen and though Lukas has seen fox fur before these are nothing like the red foxes of the Drakwald. Rather their soft, thick fur is as white as starlight. Even as someone who knows nothing about economics Lukas can tell at a glance that these furs are worth more than everything else in the warehouse combined and possibly the building itself into the bargain.

Moving on Lukas studies the windows on the second floor. Most of them are closed and look like they have been closed for years being patinaed with dust but one of them looks surprisingly free of dirt - as if it had been opened and closed again recently.
Lukas Kohl
player, 201 posts
Human, Charcoal Burner
Wounds 4 / 10
Wed 15 Mar 2023
at 13:12
  • msg #256

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"Come and look up here!" Lukas called to his companions.

"Well, I think we have found what we are guarding tonight," he said, pointing to the pelts.  "We need to make sure that awning is secured tightly.  If there is any bloodshed from burglars we've got to keep it from splashing on them."

A ruined pelt was no good to anyone...

"and look here," he said, pointing to the window.  "Thieves keep an eye on this place through this window.  This is where they get in to snoop."

Feeling very confident in his assumptions, Lukas opened the window to see how one would access the window from the roof or elsewhere.

Once anyone who wanted to look had looked he suggested, "We should see if we can secure this window and all the others.  Also see if we have any drapes we can afix to stop prying eyes.  And another lantern too.  One upstairs and one down.  If there are lights we'll put people off.  I think we should have some of us up this ladder all night tonight, because this is where it will happen."
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 185 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Wed 15 Mar 2023
at 13:33
  • msg #257

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Klinka collected the lantern and checked the oil. "We have one lantern here. I think we can get another one before our shift begins. And some oil, just to be safe."

"Nothing worth guarding down there." he added after he climbed up to check what Lukas had found.
Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 179 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:6/10
Fri 17 Mar 2023
at 16:19
  • msg #258

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Fyodor watches the cat for a second and then returns inside just as Lukas calls on them. He climbs up the ladder and investigates first the furs and then later the window.


OOC: The window that can open faces what way? And did Fyodor recalling seeing any marks on the outside wall?
Pieter Marik
player, 178 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Sat 18 Mar 2023
at 05:57
  • msg #259

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Following Fyodor back inside the warehouse, Pieter clambered up the ladder behind him to see what Lukas had found. He nodded thoughtfully at the pelts and the suspiciously clean window, then peered outside. He was not unfamiliar with second-storey work
Game Master
GM, 353 posts
Tue 28 Mar 2023
at 00:10
  • msg #260

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Careful examination reveals that the window opens outwards, though a skilled and determined individual (or an incredibly intelligent bird) would probably be able to jimmy it open from the outside.

As for the outside Fyodor judges that someone could with difficulty probably clamber up there from the alley though he is unable to locate any specific marks on the exterior walls.
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 187 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Tue 28 Mar 2023
at 06:05
  • msg #261

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"At least we know what needs guarding here. I'd hate to spend a night keeping an eye on nothing worth the while. Even for the money he pays." Klinka pointed out as he checked and counted the pelts.
Pieter Marik
player, 180 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Tue 28 Mar 2023
at 06:16
  • msg #262

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Pieter nodded, watching Fyodor count, ”I wouldn’t be surprised if they’ve counted those against us pilfering them either”
Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 181 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:6/10
Tue 28 Mar 2023
at 15:05
  • msg #263

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"Very valuable." he states in broken Reikspiel. The warrior had once seen the Tzarina wearing a coat made of fur matching the ones in the warehouse.

"Very difficult climb." he says as he leans out the window and points to the ground. He then twists his body and looks up and points towards the roof. "Maybe easier from there."


OOC: Any marks above the window?
Lukas Kohl
player, 204 posts
Human, Charcoal Burner
Wounds 4 / 10
Wed 29 Mar 2023
at 19:57
  • msg #264

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Lukas looked with Fyodor to see if he could tell whether anyone could access the window from the roof.  It seemed more likely a person used to leaping across roofs would be more hidden working that way than trying to climb up the building.  When he had finished looking he went to see if he could secure the awning down tightly and see if there was anything to help secure the window, or at least make a curtain.

"I know this sounds paranoid, but now we know what's here, it may be best if one of us stays here.  I don't know much about thievery but it could be word has got out that we're working for Mayer, or someone is watching the building.  A quick change of plan could mean the pelts are stolen in daylight before we even start work."

Not quite sure, if he was offering to do 'over-time', Lukas suggested, "I don't mind staying, as long as one of you brings some food with you later."

He continued to look around, his mind trying to catch up with all the ideas he had about how someone may break in.  "So we'll keep some of us upstairs tonight, but if we've been spotted, if I still wanted to do the job I'd cause a commotion, like a fire or a fight downstairs and when we're all involved that's when they get through the window.  We'll have to be on our guard, that's for sure."

Lukas hadn't really considered the alternative.  A long and boring night staring at a pile of fox pelts.
Pieter Marik
player, 181 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Fri 31 Mar 2023
at 04:51
  • msg #265

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"It's not whether you're paranoid", mused Pieter thoughtfully, his mind on his past, "But whether you're paranoid enough"

After a moment, he nodded to himself, "Let's keep two of us here - I'm happy to take the first watch with you, Lukas - and let's consider moving those minks out of sight"
Game Master
GM, 354 posts
Fri 31 Mar 2023
at 19:25
  • msg #266

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

It is still relatively early in the evening so there probably is time for one or more person to go and buy food and other supplies and return before the job officially starts.

A careful examination by Fyodor reveals no obvious recent boot marks on the outer walls, though admittedly the angle of sight is limited.
Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 182 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:6/10
Fri 31 Mar 2023
at 20:23
  • msg #267

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"I can get food." Fyodor volunteers as he rejoins the others in the room.
Pieter Marik
player, 182 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Fri 31 Mar 2023
at 20:34
  • msg #268

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

“Let me take another look downstairs, first”, muttered Pieter, “As I mentioned, these folks move in certain circles and I’m not sure if the person lifting these has been taking them from outside, or moving them on from within….”
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 188 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Sat 1 Apr 2023
at 10:15
  • msg #269

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"We don't have to be bored." Klinka grinned as he rattled a pair of bone dice in his hand. "We can entertain ourselves with a game or a story. And some of us can rest - who said everyone is needed to guard this place?"

Nodding to Pieter's suggestion, he offered "I can get another lamp and some oil. Do you our employer would be willing to provide them?"
Lukas Kohl
player, 205 posts
Human, Charcoal Burner
Wounds 4 / 10
Sat 1 Apr 2023
at 20:34
  • msg #270

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Lukas was glad Pieter offered to stay a while, even if it was for a bit of company to while away the boredom and he agreed it would be a good idea to make sure the pelts were both well hidden and a good look around the ground floor was undertaken.

Having never had anything worth stealing Lukas had never had a lock on the door of a place called home and if one kept an eye on their purse there was little else to worry about.  Now they'd been employed as night watchmen and he'd begun to think about it, he'd wracked his brains thinking about how people could get in, when they may try it and how they'd get out, or what ploys they may try.  It was amazing how much opportunity there was when one thought about it, and when one tried to think like a thief how many things became visible to him.

"I think the Mayers can stand us another lantern - they did say they'd provide or pay for reasonable equipment.  And I'll look forward to the dice game and food later."

He looked around the building again, and asked, "Is there anything else we need to think about here about how we keep this place safe tonight?"
Game Master
GM, 355 posts
Mon 3 Apr 2023
at 10:38
  • msg #271

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

A second search of the ground floor uncovers a crate of old boots (halfling or gnome size), a few bottles of ale (empty), a Tilean brass centesimo (minted in Remas) and a colony of mice (piebald) hiding beneath a barrel who make a break for it after Pieter shifts it.


OOC: Just to check who is going for supplies and who is staying?
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 189 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Mon 3 Apr 2023
at 11:01
  • msg #272

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

OOC: Klinka will go to fetch another lamp and some oil.
Lukas Kohl
player, 206 posts
Human, Charcoal Burner
Wounds 4 / 10
Mon 3 Apr 2023
at 12:34
  • msg #273

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

(OOC: Lukas is staying)
Pieter Marik
player, 183 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Mon 3 Apr 2023
at 13:40
  • msg #274

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

OOC: Pieter is staying
Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 183 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:6/10
Mon 3 Apr 2023
at 15:25
  • msg #275

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

OOC: Fyodor is leaving to pick up supplies.
Game Master
GM, 356 posts
Wed 5 Apr 2023
at 20:10
  • msg #276

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Klinka and Fyodor both depart on their expedition to get supplies both edible and otherwise. It isn't far to the Mayer Brothers offices and knocking they find themselves greeted by the halfling Quillberry who looks as cheerful as ever.

"I'm afraid Herr Mayer and Herr Mayer have both gone home for the evening, may I help you gentlemen?" he intones in a voice like a lead coin dropping down an ancient well.



Settling in with what comfort they can among the clutter Pieter and Lukas wait, studying the cobwebs and counting the mice scurrying along the walls.
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 190 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Fri 7 Apr 2023
at 12:37
  • msg #277

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

For a change, Klinka tried to look at least more cheerful than the halfling. "Hello Quillberry. We'll need a lantern and some oil to help us with our duties tonight. Some food would also be nice. Working always makes me hungry, not to mention Fyodor here. He is fierce warrior, but if you forget to feed him..." the dwarf shrugged at his own attempt to bring smile to Quillberry's face. "Anyway, we'll need supplies, that's all"
Pieter Marik
player, 184 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Fri 7 Apr 2023
at 14:24
  • msg #278

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Stirring softly, Pieter raised a finger to his lips and tapped Lukas’ foot with his own. Gesturing to where he thought he heard the noise, he slowly slid his sword blade from its scabbard and stood
This message was last edited by the player at 14:25, Fri 07 Apr 2023.
Lukas Kohl
player, 207 posts
Human, Charcoal Burner
Wounds 4 / 10
Fri 7 Apr 2023
at 19:22
  • msg #279

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Lukas hadn't heard a thing!  He'd been having a moment of quiet and to be honest daydreaming of the outdoors and the Drakwald.  He was trying to adjust to big city life, but he still missed beyond the city walls.  He glanced over to Pieter and nodded, acknowledging the need for silence.  Seeing his friend draw his weapon, Lukas also gripped his hand axe.

His eyes followed to the where Pieter indicated, but Lukas couldn't see or hear anything.  Nevertheless, he stood, hoping his knees wouldn't crack.  Now alert, he watched for a sign of anything untoward.
Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 184 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:6/10
Fri 7 Apr 2023
at 20:22
  • msg #280

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"DA!" Fyodor grunted loud playing along with Klinka's game.
Pieter Marik
player, 185 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Sat 8 Apr 2023
at 06:47
  • msg #281

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

With both of them now alert, Pieter moved quietly towards the back of the warehouse, where he heard the sound. One hand beckoned for Lukas to follow
Lukas Kohl
player, 208 posts
Human, Charcoal Burner
Wounds 4 / 10
Sat 8 Apr 2023
at 07:36
  • msg #282

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Lukas followed, itching to ask 'what have you heard,' but knowing silence was much better.  He listened keenly and watched closely, looking for any sign of movement.
Game Master
GM, 357 posts
Tue 11 Apr 2023
at 20:16
  • msg #283

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Harkrin & Fyodor

Quillberry sighs softly at Harkrin's request. 'Oh don't mention food! It only reminds me of our lost coook...' For a moment he looks so doleful that the dwarf is half convinced he is about to bust into tears.

Nevertheless the halfling appears to have taken aboard the plea and vanishes back inside the door, returning a few moments later with a medium sized basket and an antique but functional looking lantern. 'Some bread and hard cheese and a bottle of ale.' Quillberry explains. 'Oh and some oil for the lantern.'

He hands the lantern to Harkrin and visibly hesitates for a moment before handing over the basket to the Kislevite, clearly worried Fyodor might just wolf it all down on the spot.



Meanwhile...
Lukas Kohl
player, 209 posts
Human, Charcoal Burner
Wounds 4 / 10
Tue 11 Apr 2023
at 20:24
  • msg #284

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Scrabbling in the dark
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 191 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Wed 12 Apr 2023
at 06:25
  • msg #285

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"Thank you, Quillberry. I'm sure with us on board the brothers' fortunes will soon recover. And once it happens, I will be the first to suggest hiring that cook again. After all... no one wants Fyodor to go hungry." Klinka nodded to the halfling and added "We will see you in the morning."

With food and oil, they should now easily survive the night.

OOC: I think we are ready to go back.
Pieter Marik
player, 186 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Wed 12 Apr 2023
at 12:51
  • msg #286

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Scrabbling, scritchity-scratch
Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 185 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:6/10
Fri 14 Apr 2023
at 19:33
  • msg #287

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

The big man grunted and nodded to the halfling as the took the basket.

"Spasiba." he said and then turned to follow Klinka back to the warehouse.
Game Master
GM, 358 posts
Fri 14 Apr 2023
at 22:20
  • msg #288

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Meanwhile, back at the warehouse...

  ]
Game Master
GM, 359 posts
Fri 14 Apr 2023
at 22:36
  • msg #289

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Fyodor & Harkrin

En-route back to the warehouse the dwarf and the Kislevite walk through a small street market. Neither of them really pay much attention to the stalls, sellers or patrons but enroute Harkrin does overhear a snippet of a conversation between two humans.

"... that's right my friend, genuine Bugmans..."
Pieter Marik
player, 187 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Sat 15 Apr 2023
at 13:16
  • msg #290

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Among the pelts
Lukas Kohl
player, 210 posts
Human, Charcoal Burner
Wounds 4 / 10
Sat 15 Apr 2023
at 20:06
  • msg #291

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Among the pelts with Pieter
Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 186 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:6/10
Sat 15 Apr 2023
at 20:37
  • msg #292

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"What is Bugmans, you know?" the Kislevite asked his companion.
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 192 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Sun 16 Apr 2023
at 11:57
  • msg #293

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Klinka stopped and looked around to locate the humans talking about Bugmans.

"It's something you may like, my friend. A rare and strong ale. Very precious. Would you mind if you check this one?" he replied to Fyodor's inquiry.
Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 187 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:6/10
Sun 16 Apr 2023
at 14:38
  • msg #294

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Fyodors eyebrows shot up at Klinkas comment.

"Good ale? Da!"
Game Master
GM, 361 posts
Wed 26 Apr 2023
at 10:10
  • msg #295

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Warehouse intrigues...




Klinka & Fyodor

Tailing back down the street market Klinka and Fyodor find two men speaking with each other. One is clearly a petty trader with a scraggle of a beard, manning a stall selling various pots and pans. The other a tall fellow with a belly to match is just as obviously a customer.

"...Of course I'd try for it meself," the customer is saying, "but Mina would skin me alive so she would."

The trader barks with laughter and only then notices he has other potential customers. "How may I help you gents?" he says even as his gaze falls a little suspiciously on Klinka's impressive collection of scars.
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 193 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Wed 26 Apr 2023
at 14:48
  • msg #296

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Klinka smiled, trying to look more presentable than usual. "Apologies for interrupting your conversation, lads. I happened to overhear you mentioning Bugman's Special. It is, indeed, a rare and precious drink I would very much like to try. Do you know where could I find some?"
Pieter Marik
player, 188 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Wed 26 Apr 2023
at 15:09
  • msg #297

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Listening for the pitter-patter of rain
Lukas Kohl
player, 211 posts
Human, Charcoal Burner
Wounds 4 / 10
Sat 29 Apr 2023
at 13:25
  • msg #298

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Keeping dry
Game Master
GM, 363 posts
Wed 24 May 2023
at 00:25
  • msg #299

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Back in the abandoned warehouse district...




Harkrin & Fyodor

The trader and his customer shared a look before the trader turned back to Klinka. "How else do you think gents? A drinking contest with a keg of Bugman's as the prize. Of course you being a dwarf and him being a Kislevite you might have what we call an unfair advantage. Not sure they'd take you as is unless you began with a penalty."

Pieter Marik
player, 189 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Wed 24 May 2023
at 19:32
  • msg #300

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Pieter's eyes narrowed
This message was last edited by the player at 21:32, Thu 25 May 2023.
Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 188 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:6/10
Thu 25 May 2023
at 20:46
  • msg #301

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Fyodor raised an eyebrow. He wasnt used to weaklings that needed a some advantage to engage in a drinking game.

"What penalty?" he asked.
Lukas Kohl
player, 212 posts
Human, Charcoal Burner
Wounds 4 / 10
Sat 27 May 2023
at 18:03
  • msg #302

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Inside the warehouse
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 195 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Mon 29 May 2023
at 10:03
  • msg #303

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Klinka scratched his beard. "I don't think that would be fair - I haven't tasted anything stronger than your human ale in months now and my companion here... well, he may look big, but his head is really not that strong for a Kislevite. Anyway, when and where is the competition? A whole keg of Bugman's is worth attention."
Game Master
GM, 366 posts
Wed 31 May 2023
at 11:08
  • msg #304

Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Mysterious happenings...



Harkrin & Fyodor

The trader scratched his chin thoughtfully. "'The Quill & Frog' tavern in the Freiburg District. A popular establishment with gamblers if you are looking to place a wager. The contest is tomorrow evening if you want to try your luck. A pfennings worth of warning though friend; they take their contests seriously there."
Lukas Kohl
player, 213 posts
Human, Charcoal Burner
Wounds 4 / 10
Sat 3 Jun 2023
at 06:16
  • msg #305

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

In the warehouse
Pieter Marik
player, 190 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Sat 3 Jun 2023
at 20:16
  • msg #306

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

In the warehouse
This message was last edited by the player at 08:18, Mon 05 June 2023.
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 196 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Sun 4 Jun 2023
at 07:15
  • msg #307

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"And we take our drinking, especially when Bugman's is involved, also very serious. If you meet us there, be sure to put your coin on our victory." Klinka replied and already began planning their next evening. A whole keg... that would be really something!

"Well, my Kislevite friend, we know where we'll be spending our next evening. Now lets go back and earn some coin." he added, turning to Fyodor.
Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 189 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:6/10
Sun 4 Jun 2023
at 17:11
  • msg #308

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Fyodor listened with interest to the dwarves discussing the competition. He nodded as they left and followed Klinka back to the warehouse.
Game Master
GM, 367 posts
Thu 15 Jun 2023
at 01:30
  • msg #309

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Warehouse...


Everyone

Harkrin and Fyodor arrive back to the warehouse and discover Pieter standing watch over a bored looking elven woman in a dark dress who is leaning against a crate. As they enter she looks up and shoots what might be a rueful smile (as much as the others can tell with elves.)

Above them the two returnees can hear Lukas searching the second floor of the warehouse.
Pieter Marik
player, 191 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Thu 15 Jun 2023
at 05:04
  • msg #310

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"Gentlemen", groused Pieter as his head moved sharply towards his companions before he recognised them. He sighed, gesturing to the nonchalant woman leaning against a crate, "'Eponia' is the Mayer's insurance that we're not bad sorts, rustling those pellts for ourselves"
Fyodor Fyodoreski
player, 190 posts
SB: 3, TB:3 Armor:1
W:6/10
Thu 15 Jun 2023
at 18:05
  • msg #311

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"Good evening." the large warrior said in his heavily accented Reikspiel. He wasnt all that surprised to see a baby sitter only that it was an elven woman. He had never met one before.

Avoiding being caught staring at her, he quickly moved to the ladder and ascended it with the supplies.

"Supplies arrived have." he said and stacked them near the pelts.
Lukas Kohl
player, 214 posts
Human, Charcoal Burner
Wounds 4 / 10
Thu 15 Jun 2023
at 19:45
  • msg #312

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

At the sound of the door opening Lukas panicked thinking it was a double-ruse!  The magic elf bewitched him to think that whilst she was downstairs, thieves were upstairs which then gave the real thieves the opportunity to ambush Pieter through the front door!  He had frantically checked that indeed the pelts were where they were meant to be and drew his axe at the sound of voices.

He breathed a huge sigh of relief at the thick Kislevite accent of Fyodor (which was just as well, because moments later Fyodor's large head and shoulders popped through the opening and that really would have been embarrassingly messy if Lukas was still alert for tricksters and intruders).  He placed his arms to his side as Fyodor hauled up the provisions, before deciding it would be much more polite to not look like he was ready for a fight.

"The elf...She does magic," he whispered, before adding, "I don't trust her."  It was a sentence he regretted because he once heard a rumour that an elf could hear a mouse fart.

Descending the ladder with Fyodor, he gathered his composure somewhat as Pieter introduced Eponia.  "Yes, Eponia was going to give us some kind of proof that she works for the Mayers weren't you."  Lukas may have sounded confident, but he really didn't feel it.  If anything he felt a bit foolish but his conviction that someone tonight was going to rob the place made him very wary indeed.
Harkrin 'Klinka'
player, 197 posts
Dwarf
Ex-Convict
Fri 16 Jun 2023
at 08:26
  • msg #313

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

Klinka's bushy eyebrows furrowed into a deep scowl as he glared at the elf. "She is who?" he grumbled, his low gravelly voice filled with distrust. "How do we know this girl isn't some light-fingered cutpurse trying to trick us into thinking she works for the Mayers? Elves are slippery creatures," he said with a snort.

The dwarf had quickly come to realize that Middenheim proved far more treacherous than he had initially believed. Fighting goblins and brutish beastmen was easy enough with his battleaxe, but elves lurking in shadows of the old warehouses, always plotting and scheming? That was a different matter entirely.
Pieter Marik
player, 192 posts
Ostermarker Outlaw
Sat 17 Jun 2023
at 04:57
  • msg #314

Re: Paths of the Damned - Chapter One: Ashes of Middenheim

"She stays under our watch until we have had a chance to confirm with them", answered Pieter obliquely, a slight nod indicating his approval of the ex-con's paranoia, "We have no reason to trust her word"

He still held in his hand the bundled and wrapped blade of her people, the one he had taken from the Bandit Queen, and realising this he slung it back over his back
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