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12:37, 29th March 2024 (GMT+0)

Scene 1: The Letter.

Posted by ZigFor group 0
Zig
GM, 2 posts
Sigfrieda Boden
You first, then I'll go
Mon 28 Feb 2022
at 04:17
  • msg #1

Scene 1: The Letter

The Broken Anchor is a tavern on the waterfront of the docks and a second home to many a working stiff. There are a few empty seats near the door and fire, but a group walking in heads to the table open in the far corner. It's grimy and dim, with not too much light or notice from the dockhands or bartender.
Ironwood
GM, 1 post
Sela Helker
Tue 1 Mar 2022
at 06:23
  • msg #2

Scene 1: The Letter

Ironwood stretched casually, knitting the fingers of both hands together and pressing them palm-out towards the sky as she tried to relieve the tightness creeping into her spine from her neck. A quick turn of her head to the left and right audibly popped some joints.

Her stretching done, she readjusted her hood, making sure it remained low enough to shade her eyes, and checked the simple cloth mask that protected her nose and mouth from the briny scent on the docks. Her disguise was a relatively paltry one, given that only the wealthier visitors to the docks bothered with a covering, but it served to keep her from being immediately recognized by dockhands who may look back upon the street where she stood. With the quick glances up and down the street while she stretched didn't reveal any obvious signs of pursuit, she was still worried enough over her recent activities that she wasn't about to rule out a tail.

After a brief moment to look out on the sea, she continued on down the street, passing the Broken Anchor and being sure to look down the alleyways she passed. As she turned to circle the block again, she wondered whether any passersby might note her as looking too casual or overly paranoid, and resolved that this would be her last circuit. People went for walks all the time, after all. Or, alternatively, shady characters were everywhere in this city and as long as the passersby weren't friends of the wrong group, no one would care about her shiftiness. Surely it was fine.

As she rounded her last corner, still seeing no signs of pursuit, Ironwood reminded herself to relax her shoulders and stop clenching her jaw before she grabbed the door handle of the Broken Anchor's entrance and strode directly to the bar. She pointed to a bottle on the shelf behind the barkeep, slid enough coins for a pint across the bar, and leaned oh so casually against a stool as she waited for her drink to be poured.
Zig
GM, 3 posts
Sigfrieda Boden
You first, then I'll go
Sun 6 Mar 2022
at 18:11
  • msg #3

Scene 1: The Letter

Zig pressed her legs together as she huddled against old bricks. The Broken Anchor’s lanterns were swinging with the breeze and the night’s chill was starting to seep into her bones. No matter, she’d had enough time on ship decks to almost welcome the lick of frost as an old friend.

She pulled her great coat around her as subtly as possible. None of the dock workers and blue coats and passers by took much notice of urchins lying in the road, not unless a noble or royal was coming through. That’s when you had to be on alert so you could sneak off before they drew their clubs to poke and harass the poor devils out of the streets.

Zig watched as workers made their way into the tavern in raucous groups, with occasional threats from the local constable shouted at them whenever he walked through on his beat. She suspected it was only a matter of time before he found an agreeable body to bed down by the docks. All the better as it was the blue coats that she was hiding from.

s’pose I’m a poor devil now,” she muttered into her hands, warming them by her breath. Bitterness churned in her stomach at the thought of why she was backed into such a low corner.

She swept her eyes up, shaking off her thought—Zig was waiting for someone. Waiting and watching at the same time for a woman whose cunning smile made her uneasy, a smile and a promise that seemed too good to be true. An offer of assistance, of coin, which was all well and good.

But she’d learned that here in Duskwall as in most places, nothing truly good was ever so simple. There was also the fact that you were being played like a fiddle, and beyond that, strings that were so deftly attached that you could be trapped and made to dance like a marionette puppet.

To her left, an old man shifted and whistled into his hat, finally dropping a long empty bottle onto the stones below with a loud clatter. The sound pierced the dull night and Zig relaxed back against the wall in an instant, her chin falling down so the hood covered her face. But no one took notice at all. Beggars, orphans, piles of old rubbish were all the same in this part of town.

Her attention was drawn as she saw a person she’d just seen walk away loop come around again. A woman, but not the woman she was looking for. Someone familiar. Which meant it wasn’t a trap, or if it was, she wasn’t the only target. She licked dry lips, heart racing a little and eyes wide as she searched the gloomy streets for a head of bright red hair.
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:25, Sun 24 Apr 2022.
Jacinth
GM, 1 post
Why not?
I'll try anything once.
Mon 28 Mar 2022
at 02:38
  • msg #4

Scene 1: The Letter

Jacinth shifted as the coach jostled, moving from the smooth, paved roads of Brightstone to the rougher streets of the Docks. It was a long ride from her family's home in the Nightmarket, but this meeting was critical. She just hoped the others would all show up.

As the Broken Anchor neared, the driver slowed the horses and called back to her. Jacinth. We're here. He had parked about a block down the street that led to the tavern. Jacinth stepped down from the coach and approached the driver, handing him his fee. Thanks, Caine. The driver pocketed the money before replying. Should I return for you in a couple of hours? It was a long drive and made for a good fare. She shook her head. I don't know how long this will take and I have a few more errands to run before heading home. Caine nodded. Well, I'll be making my rounds, so if you see me, just give me a holler. And with that, the coach continued on its way, leaving Jacinth in the dim light of the lantern she carried.

She made her way down the ever-dark streets, maintaining a well-practiced awareness of her surroundings, but it didn't show in her casual movements. Jacinth traveled with no hood, no hiding of her face. She was well-know throughout the city and any attempt at a disguise would most likely draw more attention. Her connections to various factions and organizations allowed her to move about freely without too much interference.

As Jacinth approached the door to the Broken Anchor, she glanced up and down the street, noting a few dock workers and several beggars. Not recognizing any of them, she opened the door and stepped inside, hoping she found a few familiar faces. If she had to go about figuring this out alone...well, that could be very difficult indeed.

Her lips slipped into an easy smile as she noticed the rough-looking woman already standing at the bar. One down... Jacinth moved to stool next to Ironwood and leaned across the bar counter, far enough that her boots left the floor. Vy! she called to the bartender, grinning wider as the other woman rolled her eyes and tried not to smile back. A lavender tonic with a twist of lemon. Vy reach behind her to grab a glass. I have whiskey, she replied simply. Jacinth nodded. That works too. Make it a double.

As the bartender prepared her drink, Jacinth turned around, hopping up on the stool and crossing her legs. Her eyes scanned those already seated about the tavern, slowing as she noticed a dice game with some regulars. Finally, her eyes fell on the woman beside her. Her voice was softer, but not so quiet as to seem strange. Is your brother coming?
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:44, Mon 28 Mar 2022.
Zig
GM, 4 posts
Sigfrieda Boden
You first, then I'll go
Sun 24 Apr 2022
at 03:25
  • msg #5

Scene 1: The Letter

"It's cold as a witch's tit." Zig grumbled, frowning at the thought of staying much longer as the wind picked up and the last warmth from the sun faded away.

She had been hoping that the rich lady would show so she could ask for a place to stay the night, otherwise her prospects were freezing her arse off here until dawn or hitching a ride to Six Towers on the chance that Telda had managed to save her a cot. Both options meant not much sleep would be had. She was a tough chap, but better with rest.

Before she despaired of the lady Jacinth ever showing, she could hear the quick trot of horses coming in. A beautiful coach stopped a short distance away from the dusty dive bar. Zig breathed out in relief, grateful she hadn't trekked all this way for nothing. The coach drove off at a quick clip, leaving behind a tall woman, her copper hair lit up by the streetlights.

Such a grand coach in such a dingy place? She didn't understand being so open about your business. Was that a privilege only the rich could afford? Zig searched the streets, windows, and doors for any nosy passersby. But it was cold outside and getting colder, perhaps she'd lucked out. And for all Zig knew maybe the lady had paid off just about everyone and was free to go about her business without fear.

Zig didn't move or call out as the woman walked briskly towards the bar, using the shadow of her hood to conceal herself. Maybe the rich didn't mind people knowing who they associated with but Zig didn't have that luxury. Less selfishly, she also needed to keep an eye out in case any bandits were lurking in side streets waiting to jump anyone with a purse they could lift. Maybe Jacinth could hold her own, but it didn't hurt to be watchful. And she'd like to keep her unusual benefactor alive as long as possible.

Zig waited a few minutes until the lady had entered the bar before sitting up slightly, rubbing her fingers together to get the blood flowing again. The streets were still now, never quiet though as sound traveled far in the docks. Her eyes darted around the cobblestones and gas lamps, settling only when nothing out of the ordinary appeared. The old drunk next to her was snoring in a disturbingly wet way but that was it. She couldn't see or hear anyone closeby so she stood quickly, pulling off the greatcoat she'd nicked and draping it over the poor bugger when her skin prickled.

To her left stood a man robed by the dark and sea fog that had begun to drift in. Her heart pounded and her hand drifted towards her closest blade when she recognized the glint of his eerie left eye. The man from the job. She knew him. He raised his hand in silent greeting and she did the same.

She straightened her undercoat, an outdated royal navy jacket that was official enough to get her in, provided she was clean enough and no one looked too closely, stepping towards the man and the bar.

"Some warning would be nice, Singe" she said lightly but she was rattled. She had neither seen nor heard him approach. Magical enhancements, probably, but she hated how powerless they made her feel. What could she rely on if not her senses?

Her shoulder checked his lightly and she gave a wry grin before walking quickly through the door. After the long wait, Jacinth had better be in the mood to spend some coin on a meal.
Singe
GM, 1 post
Vond Helker
Alchemist
Tue 10 May 2022
at 04:11
  • msg #6

Scene 1: The Letter

The sea fog that blanketed the street, combined with the growing shadows, served more than enough to allow Singe to move easily enough. In addition to the eerie silence of his movements, the lack of a heavy overcoat only served to emphasize the man's blatant lack of concern of the growing chill around him. His steps were light, and though he moved with a noticeable limp, there was no illusion of helplessness in his carriage. The solid walking cane made the only noise, the soft tap, tap, tap on the broken cobblestones next to completely lost in the general mutters of the evening.

He stopped at the corner across from the agreed upon meeting location, watching as one of his newly acquired companions draped a coat that she obviously would have preferred to keep over a sleeping drunk. Ah, kindness. Historians lose sight of this in their obsession to find the battle of good against great evil. The mere existence of such a kernel having refused to be destroyed by evil is proof enough that, no matter the darkness...the light will never be fully conquered. He showed nothing of his intrigue in the oddity of someone with so little being so ready to share with another.

His smirk at her surprise was hidden in the shadow of the evening. His ability to move quietly always caused consternation - many were unable to equate an invalid with the ability to move easily beneath notice. A talent that would have, in another life, been beneficial to a large number of paths. However, in this life, it served as nothing more than an easy way to throw most off balance - which often was more helpful than it seemed at first.

Her greeting and friendly nudge was another interesting aspect of this new group he had stumbled into through his connection with Jacinth - individuals with concern for anything other than themselves were some of the rarest finds in this world. Unbidden, his mind spoke up, When the walls start crumbling and the fires rage - the people who stand right by your side are the treasures we all seek.

He stood a few moments longer, feeling the darkness yawning behind him. He knew that Sela was already within the establishment across the way - the same as he knew that Jacinth and now Zig were as well. He shook the vestiges of writhing thoughts from his conscious thoughts, stepping away from the wall and making his way to the door. Things are in motion. Now is the time for a response. A choice is required - and I only hope that Jacinth has some idea of what is needed.

He paused with his hand on the handle, cocking his head as if listening to something only he could hear. Another shake of his head and he pushed open the portal - the warmth which rushed over his face as unnoticed as the chill which clung to his back.
Jacinth
GM, 2 posts
Why not?
I'll try anything once.
Tue 31 May 2022
at 02:02
  • msg #7

Scene 1: The Letter

Before Ironwood responded, two more individuals entered the Broken Anchor, drawing Jacinth's gaze to the door. Her shoulders released a hint of tension at the arrival of Zig and Singe. Although she couldn't guarantee that any of them would agree to work with her again, getting them all to turn up in the same space was a small victory.

Jacinth spun back around to face the bar, picking up her glass of whiskey and sipping at it. Anything else? the bartender asked, pausing before Jacinth. She nodded. Some stew and ale for four. As Vy took the order to the kitchen, Jacinth pushed off from the counter and made her way to an open table. It was closest to the fire, but had a decent amount of space between the next table with patrons and as Jacinth sat with her back to the hearth, it gave her a clear view of the rest of the room.

She let the whiskey warm her lips as she waited for the others to join her. An anxious energy thrummed inside her chest, a mixture of anticipation and uncertainty. It was always this way when she had to make an offer and the outcome was unpredictable. And although this time she had more at stake than usual, the feeling was still exciting.
Singe
GM, 2 posts
Vond Helker
Alchemist
Thu 9 Jun 2022
at 18:52
  • msg #8

Scene 1: The Letter

His eye tracked Jacinth as she made her way to a table clear of occupants. He nodded a small greeting to Sela as the door shut the chill out behind him before moving towards the table clearly meant to be their destination. He settled in the seat to Jacinth's right, leaning back slowly as if testing the strength of the chair. Evening, Mistress Arran. His voice was soft, his blue eye slowly taking in the room around them. I trust you are well?
Zig
GM, 5 posts
Sigfrieda Boden
You first, then I'll go
Mon 27 Jun 2022
at 06:34
  • msg #9

Scene 1: The Letter

Zig bit her lip as her eyes darted between the others as that table. They exchanged pleasantries in their polite high speech as she traced the rim of her cup. Her mood didn’t go unnoticed as she felt their gazes dart over her during their conversation, first Singe, then Ironwood, then Jacinth.

Her news was bad and the longer she waited, the worse the reaction would be once they found out. She didn’t think they’d beat her for it, but they certainly would want her share of the coin back and she’d need to find a new job. Rotten luck that. They seemed like a decent bunch.

Zig sighed, taking a bracing gulp of sweet golden ale before smacking her hands down on the table and whispering urgently.

There’s no use for it, lady. You’ve got to know that the parchment I nicked and hid, the one you wanted to see? Well it’s gone now, stolen from a place I don’t see how anyone could find. Your pardon, lady, but the thing’s gone and that was the point of this meetup, eh?
This message was last edited by the GM at 06:35, Mon 27 June 2022.
Jacinth
GM, 3 posts
Why not?
I'll try anything once.
Fri 1 Jul 2022
at 16:26
  • msg #10

Scene 1: The Letter

Jacinth smiled warmly at Singe as he joined her. Ah, Vond. Good to see you. She rested a hand on his forearm and tilted her face toward him. Before I forget, I have something for you. Reaching into one of the hidden pockets of her dress, she pulled out a small pouch which she handed to him. You mentioned once before that you'd had trouble finding a reliable source for this. Inside, Singe would find a small bar of ashmandite, just large enough to fit in the palm of his hand, its weight quite significant given its size. If you happen to need more, given time, I can acquire it for you.

Her attention returned to the table as the others joined her and the ale was delivered. Now, to confirm her suspicions and make her second offer. But before she was able to begin, Zig spoke up, a strained whisper of less than pleasant news.

Jacinth raised her brows as the other woman presented the unexpected information. She leaned back to consider it, biting at her thumbnail as she thought. That was not what she had hoped to have learned, but it did make sense. That would explain the escalation this morning.

She nodded and shifted back to the table. Her previously light expression appeared more engaged now, but she did not seem troubled. That was certainly part of it, she replied to Zig, a faint smile on her lips. There were things she had hoped to confirm and she was merely fumbling in the dark until she did so. Did you happen to get a good look at it before it was lost? Jacinth had been anxious to see what they had found, but the fact that it had been stolen back before she'd had the opportunity to see it only indicated that it was more valuable than she had originally anticipated.
Singe
GM, 3 posts
Vond Helker
Alchemist
Mon 26 Sep 2022
at 13:43
  • msg #11

Scene 1: The Letter

He took the proffered pouch silently, the weight making him raise an eyebrow in silent question. Opening the gift enough to see its contents, he smiled and tucked it away into an inner pocket of his coat. Indeed I did. It makes research very tedious when you can't count on materials being there when you need them. Many thanks, Mistress.

Sipping from the mug in front of him, he listened to the exchange, watching his peers as much as those sitting around them. The loss of potential information was unfortunate, but not immensely detrimental. Especially if Zig had any memory of the contents of the missive.
Zig
GM, 6 posts
Sigfrieda Boden
You first, then I'll go
Sat 29 Oct 2022
at 20:21
  • msg #12

Scene 1: The Letter

Zig was quiet for a minute, surprised by the lack of shouting. If she had delivered such news on deck, she would have had to start sweet talking by now to avoid a caning. Frankly, she felt off kilter the whole time with these people, these strange, intelligent, powerful people, never sure whether to be herself, lowclass and rough as she was, or to simper snd beseech them. She often stood to the side, quiet unless called upon, occasionally having a silent conversation with Ironwood.

But her companions seemed unsurprised or at least curious, by no means angry. Maybe this was just how it was among the merchant class. But then Ironwood seemed like Zig and appeared fine as well, if a little distrusting with her brow furrowing like that.

Well, she thought, might as well get the whole thing out then. The mood might change if they knew how badly she’d blundered. She took a breath and used her most charming language.

Zig began, stumbling over her words. “The thing is, Lady, I can’t, I’m not a great reader. At least for fancy scripts like that, I can hardly make ‘em out, what with their swirls and loops and such.

The young woman’s head dipped then, clearly aggravated by the news. And that twisted Zig’s stomach, to disappoint such a rare and generous woman, so she continued.

But, there was a seal, a nice one, made of purple wax. I’m sure I can mark it for you and the maester on paper if I had some. Never saw such a gaudy signet before and I won’t forget it that easily.”
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