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Adventures in Eberron> Chapter 32 posted 08-08-05>
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<blockquote data-quote="skullsmurfer" data-source="post: 2468246" data-attributes="member: 17151"><p><strong>The Rain in Thrane, Chapter 31</strong></p><p></p><p>Thrane is just another stop for the Lightning Rail. For some reason, they act like it is an invasion. A dozen inspectors, each accompanied by a guard went through the Rail cars from end to end. Theodyl was ready for them. When Juno knocked on his door, the old widow was waiting.</p><p></p><p> “Oh my! We have a visitor!” The old woman crooned. Juno's nose twitched. “Do come in young man....girl's, some tea please.”</p><p></p><p> “This really won't take long, Madame.” The conductor tried to make excuses. “The inspectors are here, I just needed to collect your Identity Papers. That way they will not disturb your privacy.” Theodyl pretended not to understand. The attendants brought out a tray of tea and biscuits. The tea set looked expensive, Juno forced a smile and took a seat.</p><p></p><p> “Tell me about this ferry business, young man, I'm afraid I have never been on a boat.” One of the attendants, served him. Juno noticed how threadbare the servant's clothing looked when compared to the rich cut of the widow's dress. The old woman's jewelry is absolutely dazzling. She must be very rich. “What can I do to preserve my dignity among the low born water-kin?”</p><p></p><p> Juno tried not to laugh. The woman is behind the times by several generations. It has been years since he's heard such language. Modern day snobbery is much more subtle, in his opinion. To his credit, he kept a straight face as he offered to arrange for a private crossing. He stands to make a good percentage over the real price for a charter. As it stands, the Inspectors from Thrane have doubled their take.</p><p></p><p> Inspector Sanner let himself into Theodyl's suite. His guard stayed at the door, this is the last car on his list. Juno is late with his payment. The smell hit him at much the same time as the old woman's voice. Conductor Juno is sitting there with a cup of tea in his hand and a look of utter despair. Inspector Sanner didn't have the time to say anything before the obviously addled woman invited him to a cup of tea.</p><p></p><p> “Oh! What a strapping young man!” The old woman talked fast, typical of the lonely widow type. “My husband wore armor...Are you a knight? My son was a knight.....” Sanner drank his tea and ate his biscuit. The cuirass is just for decoration, he's no soldier. The smell of whatever the hell the woman is wearing is starting to make his head spin.</p><p></p><p> “So, Madame, what brings you to Thalinost?” Sanner tried to get on with business.</p><p></p><p> “I am traveling to the Mror Holds,” She beamed at him. “My physicians tell me that the fresh mountain air will do wonders for my lungs.” Sanner's nose twitched but he struggled to maintain his decorum. Juno is looking desperately in his direction.</p><p></p><p> “Err, Juno, have you the collection for the orphanage?” It was a desperate ploy, Sanner prayed the fool would take the hint. “I will be passing by to visit this week, the headmistress can really use the money.”</p><p></p><p> “Orphanage?” The widow halted her ruminations. “Oh, I weep for the little ones.....Tell me, where is this place? I would love to visit. I miss my children terribly!” Juno rolled his eyes while Inspector Sanner tried in vain to distract the old woman.</p><p></p><p> “Perhaps, Madame, you would care to make a small donation?” Juno finally said. The old woman's war-forged escort turned to glare at the two of them. The attendants tried to guide their Mistress away from the subject.</p><p></p><p> “No, no, no.” Inspector Sanner interjected. “I would not be so crass as to solicit donations from the Lady.” Juno raised an eyebrow. “It wouldn't be proper, not proper at all.” The Inspector stood up and pulled Juno out of his chair. “I am honored to have made your generous acquaintance, Madame. You are cleared to disembark.”</p><p></p><p> Theodyl was grinning as soon as the door shut. Pook handed him a gold coin, Javelin collected from the others. The bard held the two men prisoner for a good three quarters of an hour. Even Javelin thought that it wouldn't be possible. Paragon let himself out of the closet and glared at them all. He told them to get rid of them fast, not to place bets.</p><p></p><p> “What the hell was that about?” Paragon demanded.</p><p></p><p> “Just testing the waters...Posie, what did you learn?” Theodyl's old lady voice queried. The changeling jumped at the surprise question.</p><p></p><p> “Mmm, that Juno's contact is an Inspector named Sanner...” Pook replied hoping it was the right answer.</p><p></p><p> “Patty?”</p><p></p><p> “That the Inspector has something over Juno?”</p><p></p><p> “Siff?”</p><p></p><p> “That the Inspector is afraid of something, maybe Juno said something that scared him.....”</p><p></p><p> “Eve?”</p><p></p><p> “Huh? I don't know.....was he afraid to take our money?”</p><p></p><p> “You guys are supposed to be paying attention.” The old woman scolded. “I need a foot rub.” Theodyl took his feet off the wheel chair stirrups and kicked off the square toed granny shoes. “The Inspector didn't want to take our money. Juno may have put him at risk for soliciting, or he may be afraid that it was a set up. He's corrupt enough to take money from Juno, maybe he couldn't take money from an old lady. We now know that this Sanner fellow will take a bribe, and we know that he is afraid of exposure....”</p><p></p><p> “So you can blackmail him?” Paragon spoke up.</p><p></p><p> “Precisely. We also found out that there are discrete ways across the water from Juno's sales pitch. Also, the Inspector arrived before we made payment, it's drinking money now, I say.” Theodyl smiled.</p><p></p><p> “So what did I miss?” Pook frowned.</p><p></p><p> “Juno has a prisoner's brand on his wrist. That is Sanner's leverage.” The bard wiggled his toes at his attendants. “If I remember correctly, a man wearing such a mark gets the rope the next time he gets caught. Now start rubbing.”</p><p></p><p> “I think not,” Paragon growled. “this lesson isn't over yet. I want them to go and find out for sure. There could be other's connected to Juno's scheme, knowing that could give us a better advantage. Give them twelve hours to confirm your guesses.”</p><p></p><p> “That's a great idea.” Theodyl stared at his feet, wiggling his toes to annoy the changelings. “We should give prizes for creativity, cooperation, stealth, and viable results.”</p><p></p><p> “Whomever satisfies Theodyl's requirements will get two days off from training.” Paragon kicked Theodyl out his chair. “Ready yourself, I want to see how well you can use that spear of yours.” The changelings hurried to leave, Paragon has been playing rough lately. Two days away from the nightmare that the war-forged call training is worth the hassle.</p><p></p><p> Theodyl didn't bother doing anything other than changing into a nightshirt. He can tell Paragon wants to talk. The war-forged is about as paranoid as a dragon sitting on a bed of treasure. The bard would complain, except for the number of times that same paranoia has saved his skin. He trusts Paragon, Dol Dorn will wear a dress and put daisies in his hair before that changes. Theodyl smiled at his friend, the war-forged started to worry.</p><p></p><p> “I have been in contact with Pyrus.” Paragon sat on the floor. “The ankle bracelet we removed from your person detonated his laboratory.”</p><p></p><p> “Oh...” The bard tried not to grin. “How much is he charging us?”</p><p></p><p> “No jokes. Read this. Pyrus did some preliminary research on your family background. It isn't good, so far.” Paragon drew a scroll case from inside the stove. “This is a report on one Devee Vair a distant cousin to the d'Vol family. She was an elf, formerly some sort of envoy or herald to the Elven Court. She was married to one Shever Morgain d'Phierlan, also an elf, they had four children. They were all purged except for one male, the oldest, name unknown.”</p><p></p><p> “You say, he may be my father?” Theodyl made a face. “Stargazer said my father worked for House Lyrandar. How can we find out for sure?”</p><p></p><p> “I still have friends in Sharn.” Paragon suggested. “Morik and Fist still work as Inquisitives, we should hire them.”</p><p></p><p> “The ones that you hired to follow me around?” Theodyl pouted. “They are going to need a bodyguard.”</p><p></p><p> “The dwarf is no slouch and Fist is a Longstrider, why do they need a bodyguard?” Paragon protested. “You don't want to insult them.”</p><p></p><p> “Every big time Inquisitive needs a bodyguard,” Theodyl rolled his eyes at having to explain the obvious. “It is a matter of making the right impression. Besides an Inquisitive that can't afford some help doesn't have the right status. I want the best. There is a fellow that I know about.....”</p><p></p><p> “And who would that be?” The war-forged shook his head. “They would have to be damned tough to impress those two.”</p><p></p><p> “Longtooth, from the Gorgon's Eye. He's perfect.” Theodyl assured his friend. “Marik and Fist couldn't find a better man or beast.”</p><p></p><p> “Done. Now I have some questions. How do you kill a lich? Who is this Traveler God the changelings pray to? And what exactly can we do about this Geas the lich tangled you with?”</p><p></p><p> Theodyl sighed. Paragon has a bad habit of saving up his questions and then unleashing them at the oddest of times. The bard spent an hour describing a phylactery and it's functions, as far as he knew. Paragon fixated on finding Mooneye's phylactery and destroying it. Once the war-forged finds a threat, eliminating it becomes an obsession. Theodyl tried to explain other details, but he finally gave up and went on to the next question. The Traveler turned out to be a difficult subject. Paragon interrupted frequently with further questions. For some reason, Paragon wanted to know if Theodyl has ever sought Him out. The bard laughed, he's devoted to Olladra, nothing will lead him away.</p><p></p><p> “What about the Geas” Paragon changed the subject.</p><p></p><p> The bard frowned. The Geas is like a set of chains draped over his spirit. It took him a moment to find the right words. Paragon had difficulty believing that it could not be broken. Theodyl explained that he felt the will of Aureon behind the lich's spell. As he understands the process, he would have to petition the God directly for release. He is afraid that such an act will require further obligations. The truth is that if the Sovereign Host want something, his choices are limited. It would be easier to fulfill the Geas and move on. He doesn't care for Necromancy, personally, but the knowledge bears directly on his current predicament.</p><p></p><p> “Don't make excuses, I won't see you go the way of those Karrnathi ghouls!” Paragon threatened. “Think about what you are doing because I will be watching.”</p><p></p><p> “I'm not the type to play with dead things.” Theodyl frowned.</p><p></p><p> “But you are the type to get into trouble. You poke your nose where you shouldn't and worse, often you do things just because!” Paragon hit the floor with his fist.</p><p></p><p> Theodyl decided to change the subject then. He's already come to a decision about the book of Necromancy. The Geas tells him to learn, not to practice. The bard can work with that. The other books are not a problem. When combined with other books in his library, they are a valuable resource to a fledgling wizard. Theodyl should have the first of the new spells in another month. The notation is giving him trouble, but he's found a solution. When he transcribes the spells into something closer to music, everything is going to be much easier.</p><p></p><p> “Watch me if you will.” Theodyl smiled. In five years, Mooneye is going be very surprised. “I promise you, no disappointments.” Paragon stuck out his hand, Theodyl grasped it. The war-forged met the half-elf's eyes and shook on it. Theodyl may twist the words around, but he won't break a deal.</p><p></p><p> ******</p><p></p><p> The changelings spent nearly three hours arguing about their assignment. Pook wanted to seduce Juno. Ivor thought it would be a bad idea, Siff agreed. Patter wanted to play a confidence game. Pook agreed with him only because Siff was siding with Ivor. It took another hour of Pook and Patter suggesting different combinations and the other two taking the ideas apart before they had a working plan.</p><p></p><p> The Lightning Rail waited at Thalinost, Juno spent his time cursing Inspector Sanner while at the same time, trying to figure out how to be rid of him. The Conductor stared at the brand on his wrist. Normally, it is hidden by the starched cuffs of his uniform. In Thrane, however it is unlawful to cover such a mark. Once the Inspectors knew about it, they kept on him until they found something wrong. Thrane has laws, but there is no law that protects a former convict from things even a foreigner wouldn't have to endure. In short they want money, every time they see him.</p><p></p><p> “Excuse me, Juno?” A woman approached the brooding Conductor in the dining car. Juno looked to the Hostess, she's supposed to keep his privacy, well, private. She is busy speaking to three other women. Juno recognized them, they are the old widow's attendants. “W-what do you want?” He asked nervously.</p><p></p><p> “We just wanted to get to know you a little better.” Siff smiled, she is wearing a chaste, but form fitting dress. She made a hand sign and frowned when he didn't understand. “You are not a Brother, are you?”</p><p></p><p> “I'm sure I don't know what you are talking about.” Juno got very nervous. “Please, let me be.” The woman made several other signs, no response.</p><p></p><p> “Neither are you a Fellow, or a Lark.” Siff continued. “You are not a Whistler or a Knave. No wonder the Flamer can push you around. You don't have a Guild behind you.”</p><p></p><p> “Guild......” Juno changed colors. “There are no G-Guilds in Thrane.”</p><p></p><p> “A shame, really.” Siff smiled again. “The old woman is a friend of a friend. Her family is very concerned with her Health and her Fortune, we are tasked with the job of keeping her away from bad influences and worse relatives. There are a lot of unscrupulous types out there who would take advantage of an old woman.” Juno felt his mouth go suddenly dry.</p><p></p><p> “I-I-I w-would never.....” Juno started. “I mean to say, that I'm sorry.” The brand on his wrist started to itch. An old witch once told him it is just his imagination, but it feels real to him.</p><p></p><p> “I want to believe you, really I do.” Siff smiled, but her eyes bore into Juno. “But you are a convict with a brand, and you have no one to Speak for you. Sadly, you also have a Flamer pulling you about on a leash.....”</p><p></p><p> “Don't, please.” Juno wiped the sweat from his brow. “I can handle the Inspector, he's greedy, but he doesn't like to dirty his hands. I can offer you contacts, I have connections with the House, they got me this job. Sometimes, I handle special arrangements for them. They tell me things that no one else knows and I can pass this on to you....”</p><p></p><p> “Saeffa,” Siff brushed his hand. “of the Faceless.” Juno felt a cold dread pierce his heart. The Faceless were a Guild of Assassins from Sharn. They were wiped out by the City Watch just after the war. It was very public. From that day on, the Guilds outside the law have kept their heads down. The Faceless have not been heard from since.</p><p></p><p> “....” Juno moved his lips, but no sound came out. Saeffa smiled at him again. “Are you going to kill me?” She pouted. “I have some....”</p><p></p><p> “No bribes.” Siff smiled inwardly. The man is terrified. “The Flamer, tell me about him.”</p><p></p><p> Pook, Patter, and Ivor kept a silent vigil on Siff's meeting. The got a table close enough to over hear most of the action. Among the changelings of Sharn, the Faceless are legend. They ruled the under city with subtlety and terror. No other could rise against them because all others served the Faceless, one way or the other. When the war came to an end, and the powers of the city turned inward, the Faceless refused to give up what they had claimed. After decades of careful planning and boundless profits, their own clients turned against them. The Nobles, the Guilds and their House masters, the City Council, all of them turned and drove their knives in. Siff has always told stories about the Faceless. They were led by changelings and the Traveler blessed their works.</p><p></p><p> “Now tell me about you.” Saeffa continued her casual interrogation. Juno is held by his own fears, hopes, and assumptions. The Traveler teaches that men forge their own chains thus. “How did you come to earn your brand.”</p><p></p><p> *****</p><p></p><p> Inspector Sanner sat in his office and reviewed his reports. The bureaucracy of Thrane expects paper, long words, and proper stamping, just above the signature. Sanner frowned, he hates paperwork. It took him a moment, but eventually he noticed someone sitting across from his desk. Inspector Sanner was about to say something nasty until he noticed the finely crafted badge on the man's chest.</p><p></p><p> “How may I be of service Ser Orien?” The Inspector stood and greeted his visitor.</p><p></p><p> “I have a small problem with one of our properties.” The man said. “A man by the name of Juno has not been doing his job properly. My sources tell me that you have been distracting him.”</p><p></p><p> “The convict?” Sanner scoffed.</p><p></p><p> “House Orien's convict.” The man raised an eyebrow. “He keeps track of certain kinds of travelers for us. Last month, he failed to notice a certain undesirable and it caused the House some...difficulty. What precisely is your business with our convict, and why do you presume to interfere with our operations?” The Inspector's hands shook, but he showed no other sign of weakness.</p><p></p><p> “I assure you, my office has no interest in House Orien's activities.” Sanner improvised. “The man bears a brand, we merely wanted to keep an eye on him, he is a criminal after all.”</p><p></p><p> “We've had him followed. He is making regular payments to you. I wager that your office is unaware of these transactions. Further, you and Juno are reported to have Solicited donations to some orphanage from one of our passengers. Very bad form, House Orien is very strict about that kind of abuse.”</p><p></p><p> “Please, I assure you, such was not my intention. Juno made the request, I made it a point to keep it from going any further.” Sanner is scared. The man frowned for a moment. “I am willing to believe you. This need not go any further.”</p><p></p><p> “What do you want?” Sanner sighed, he knew this would cost him.</p><p></p><p> “Nothing much. Juno will continue providing special services, for which he will give you 5%, for the orphans.” Sanner cringed. “From time to time he will require help dealing with passengers we don't care for. Or perhaps a client will require a connection in Thalinost. You will assist him.”</p><p></p><p> “But don't you have people to that for House Orien?” Sanner whined.</p><p></p><p> “Yes, but it is expensive, you can do it for free.” The man sneered. “The House, will of course provide you with certain considerations. Juno will gladly assist you, within House regulations, of course.”</p><p></p><p> Inspector Sanner had no choice. Thrane is very strict about commerce with the Houses. His reputation could be ruined, his family would not survive. Sanner accepted House Orien's terms and watched the man stand up, then disappear. If the House Badge, wasn't enough to convince him, a display of teleportation certainly is. The inspector walked out of his office and made for the first tavern he could find. Patter padded right behind, hidden by his Ring of Invisibility. He is sure that he can talk Paragon into a week's vacation from training.</p><p></p><p> *****</p><p></p><p> Juno spent a very uneasy two hours in his room. Normally, conductors share, four to a suite. He's managed to buy out the others. No one witnessed the visitors when they come. Saeffa came with the others. Juno is still afraid, but he is alive. Good enough.</p><p></p><p> “We have negotiated your release from the Flamer.” The Faceless smiled at him. “He believes you serve House Orien as an agent, now. He will not risk their wrath.”</p><p></p><p> “What?” Juno reeled.</p><p></p><p> “Indeed, we have also lowered your obligation to 5%. His 15% was too much, especially with you doing all the work. He will be more helpful now, as well. You should expect the usual free meals and such from him, but he will not interfere with your work anymore. Happy?”</p><p></p><p> “But I didn't ask for this!” The conductor protested.</p><p></p><p> “Believe me,” Saeffa patted his shoulder. “it is for the best. The Faceless could use a man with your connections. The Lightning Rail touches many lands.”</p><p></p><p> “What do you want?” Juno felt his heart drop. “The House knows about me, I can't do anything out of the ordinary.”</p><p></p><p> “And you won't.” Saeffa assured him. “We want information. We want a way to transport bits and pieces from one place to another. Can you do that for us? You can be a valuable resource along this Rail Line. You could be one of us.”</p><p></p><p> “Yeah, I can do that....” Juno gave in, he is tired of working alone. “What do I have to do?”</p><p></p><p> Siff took charge. Patter handed Juno a package and a few letters. He is to mail them anonymously once he reaches Sharn. Ivor taught the conductor three different hand signs as well as a verbal sign and counter sign. When they left, Pook stayed behind.</p><p></p><p> “Saeffa tells me you got caught in noble's treasury with your hands on his daughter......” Posie purred from the top of Juno's bed. “I like a daring man....”</p><p></p><p> Juno tried to answer, but the seductive scent of roses overwhelmed his thoughts. Pook took charge then. Ivor and Siff are running towards the freight cars. While Siff was talking, Ivor stole one of the conductor's uniforms. With luck, the changeling will be able to impersonate Juno if he doesn't pass Pook's more subtle interrogation. Theodyl has taught them a lot.</p><p></p><p> *****</p><p></p><p> Siff is the oldest. She was fifteen when she bought the other's out of the sweat factory the head mistress ran in the basement of Saint Othea's Orphanage in Sharn. She had escaped and, in three years, she had saved enough to come back and buy three other children. Siff was disappointed that she couldn't save more, the headmistress was a greedy old hag. She charged more for Ivor because she was still a virgin. Siff never got that mercy.</p><p></p><p> Her family died by fire, a fact that secretly endears her to Theodyl. That night, she was a terrified twelve year old girl. Siff had crawled into a tiny stone chamber beneath fireplace in her room. A week later she crawled out from the ruins of her family's manor and skulked into the alleyways of the under city. She had a knife, a money belt stuffed with silver, and a strange knapsack that could hold an entire pantry of food and drink. It was her mother's. For emergencies, she had said. The night the City Watch purged the Faceless Guild, many orphans were saved by Saint Othea's Orphanage.</p><p></p><p> The Traveler answered her prayers shortly after escaping the orphanage. A dark man took her under his wing after about a month of struggling in the dark alleys and sewers. He taught her to pick pockets, cheat at dice, and to climb into a noble's home to steal. Her Teacher was a blackmailer who considered burglary a pleasing hobby. He became her father. The man taught her how to reach out for the Traveler's blessings. A year later, he became her first lover. Two years later he became her first heartbreak. By then she had lived decades worth of life in a very short amount of time.</p><p></p><p> Siff planned to rob him out of spite. That day she found him dead, inside his own closet. She never new his real name. His savings and whatever else she scraped up paid for Patter, Pook, and Ivor's freedom. They became her gang. She often worries that they are soft, but she can't deny that they are talented. Patter reminds her of her older brother, he's her most frequent lover. The Traveler has kept them alive since. They are as close to a family as he can hope for. Theodyl is a new addition. Siff is cunning, but the bard is in a category all his own. His genius has propelled them to the top, but he is also liable to get them killed with his excessive nature. To her mind, he is a puzzle. Theodyl is a pointy-eared source of awe and frustration. The Traveler likes him too.</p><p></p><p> The others are waiting. Theodyl and Paragon must have beaten each other senseless. Paragon's new armor plate is scored and he is bleeding. Theodyl is still bruised despite the use of a potion and a charge from a healing wand. Javelin looks like the bard managed to use some of his magic. Siff let Pook make their presentation, he's been taking the reins of leadership lately. Patter is smart, but he prefers to play. Ivor is talented but flighty. Siff thinks that she could make a fine cleric if she made the effort to develop her faith.</p><p></p><p> “Well! I am very impressed!” Theodyl beamed. He took their operation apart over a period of two hours. The bard examined everything with a critical eye. If he let anything pass, Paragon would demand more explanations. Towards the end, everyone but Siff was convinced that they had, somehow, failed.</p><p></p><p> “Paragon, I think we should do as Patter suggests.” The bard announced dramatically. “They have earned a week of rest.”</p><p></p><p> “Harrumph, don't think that you can weasel out of your own training!” Paragon nudged Theodyl. “I am proud of your progress, lads.” He said to the changelings. They drank and ate from a tray of delightfully chilled plums. It was a sleepy gathering until the bard spoke up.</p><p></p><p> “I have a thought,” Theodyl made conversation. “We have a very unique opportunity with our friend Juno. It would benefit our enterprise to have a small network in place to help us conduct private business.”</p><p></p><p> “You know that is not in our Business Plan.” Paragon shot down the idea.</p><p></p><p> “Nonsense. I am a wanted outlaw, we need to take certain precautions, make friends etc. Besides, the competition is fierce.” Theodyl continued. “Every House keeps a spy in their stables.”</p><p></p><p> “I think that you are playing another game here.” Paragon challenged the half-elf. “What exactly do you have in mind? Speak up, you would chatter into the night if we let you.”</p><p></p><p> “I want to continue publishing the Sharn Anonymous.” Theodyl announced to his audience. “My upcoming tour through the continent of Khorvaire will provide ample material. Your network must safely and successfully deliver my words to Sharn before I am satisfied of it's success.”</p><p></p><p> “You are chattering again.” Paragon warned. He's starting not to like Theodyl's thinking. “Why exactly should I help you accomplish this?”</p><p></p><p> “The lads can hone their talents completing the links to a network that will stretch along the Lightning Rail.” Theodyl's eyes glittered. “The venture would be an asset to us. I also think that they deserve to take an active and equal role within our enterprise. They are ready Paragon.”</p><p></p><p> “They still hit the training floor too often for my liking.” The war-forged complained. “As long as their skills continue to improve, I will support your decision.”</p><p></p><p> Siff fought not to show her surprise. She had a vague idea about spreading the Faceless legend when she conned the conductor. Theodyl took it a step further. Patter was smiling like a fool. Ivor and Pook are absolutely beaming.</p><p></p><p> “When do you want us to start?” Pook took the initiative.</p><p></p><p> “No rush,” Theodyl smiled. “The rail comes and goes virtually every week. These things take time and, you still don't have a plan.” Patter and Pook mobbed Siff. All three of them started talking at once. They are already working on a few ideas. Paragon jumped in. Ivor casually backed away. She picked Theodyl's door and let herself in. Theodyl threw in several morsels to fuel his friend's lively conversation and then used their divided attentions to follow after his lover.</p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="skullsmurfer, post: 2468246, member: 17151"] [b]The Rain in Thrane, Chapter 31[/b] Thrane is just another stop for the Lightning Rail. For some reason, they act like it is an invasion. A dozen inspectors, each accompanied by a guard went through the Rail cars from end to end. Theodyl was ready for them. When Juno knocked on his door, the old widow was waiting. “Oh my! We have a visitor!” The old woman crooned. Juno's nose twitched. “Do come in young man....girl's, some tea please.” “This really won't take long, Madame.” The conductor tried to make excuses. “The inspectors are here, I just needed to collect your Identity Papers. That way they will not disturb your privacy.” Theodyl pretended not to understand. The attendants brought out a tray of tea and biscuits. The tea set looked expensive, Juno forced a smile and took a seat. “Tell me about this ferry business, young man, I'm afraid I have never been on a boat.” One of the attendants, served him. Juno noticed how threadbare the servant's clothing looked when compared to the rich cut of the widow's dress. The old woman's jewelry is absolutely dazzling. She must be very rich. “What can I do to preserve my dignity among the low born water-kin?” Juno tried not to laugh. The woman is behind the times by several generations. It has been years since he's heard such language. Modern day snobbery is much more subtle, in his opinion. To his credit, he kept a straight face as he offered to arrange for a private crossing. He stands to make a good percentage over the real price for a charter. As it stands, the Inspectors from Thrane have doubled their take. Inspector Sanner let himself into Theodyl's suite. His guard stayed at the door, this is the last car on his list. Juno is late with his payment. The smell hit him at much the same time as the old woman's voice. Conductor Juno is sitting there with a cup of tea in his hand and a look of utter despair. Inspector Sanner didn't have the time to say anything before the obviously addled woman invited him to a cup of tea. “Oh! What a strapping young man!” The old woman talked fast, typical of the lonely widow type. “My husband wore armor...Are you a knight? My son was a knight.....” Sanner drank his tea and ate his biscuit. The cuirass is just for decoration, he's no soldier. The smell of whatever the hell the woman is wearing is starting to make his head spin. “So, Madame, what brings you to Thalinost?” Sanner tried to get on with business. “I am traveling to the Mror Holds,” She beamed at him. “My physicians tell me that the fresh mountain air will do wonders for my lungs.” Sanner's nose twitched but he struggled to maintain his decorum. Juno is looking desperately in his direction. “Err, Juno, have you the collection for the orphanage?” It was a desperate ploy, Sanner prayed the fool would take the hint. “I will be passing by to visit this week, the headmistress can really use the money.” “Orphanage?” The widow halted her ruminations. “Oh, I weep for the little ones.....Tell me, where is this place? I would love to visit. I miss my children terribly!” Juno rolled his eyes while Inspector Sanner tried in vain to distract the old woman. “Perhaps, Madame, you would care to make a small donation?” Juno finally said. The old woman's war-forged escort turned to glare at the two of them. The attendants tried to guide their Mistress away from the subject. “No, no, no.” Inspector Sanner interjected. “I would not be so crass as to solicit donations from the Lady.” Juno raised an eyebrow. “It wouldn't be proper, not proper at all.” The Inspector stood up and pulled Juno out of his chair. “I am honored to have made your generous acquaintance, Madame. You are cleared to disembark.” Theodyl was grinning as soon as the door shut. Pook handed him a gold coin, Javelin collected from the others. The bard held the two men prisoner for a good three quarters of an hour. Even Javelin thought that it wouldn't be possible. Paragon let himself out of the closet and glared at them all. He told them to get rid of them fast, not to place bets. “What the hell was that about?” Paragon demanded. “Just testing the waters...Posie, what did you learn?” Theodyl's old lady voice queried. The changeling jumped at the surprise question. “Mmm, that Juno's contact is an Inspector named Sanner...” Pook replied hoping it was the right answer. “Patty?” “That the Inspector has something over Juno?” “Siff?” “That the Inspector is afraid of something, maybe Juno said something that scared him.....” “Eve?” “Huh? I don't know.....was he afraid to take our money?” “You guys are supposed to be paying attention.” The old woman scolded. “I need a foot rub.” Theodyl took his feet off the wheel chair stirrups and kicked off the square toed granny shoes. “The Inspector didn't want to take our money. Juno may have put him at risk for soliciting, or he may be afraid that it was a set up. He's corrupt enough to take money from Juno, maybe he couldn't take money from an old lady. We now know that this Sanner fellow will take a bribe, and we know that he is afraid of exposure....” “So you can blackmail him?” Paragon spoke up. “Precisely. We also found out that there are discrete ways across the water from Juno's sales pitch. Also, the Inspector arrived before we made payment, it's drinking money now, I say.” Theodyl smiled. “So what did I miss?” Pook frowned. “Juno has a prisoner's brand on his wrist. That is Sanner's leverage.” The bard wiggled his toes at his attendants. “If I remember correctly, a man wearing such a mark gets the rope the next time he gets caught. Now start rubbing.” “I think not,” Paragon growled. “this lesson isn't over yet. I want them to go and find out for sure. There could be other's connected to Juno's scheme, knowing that could give us a better advantage. Give them twelve hours to confirm your guesses.” “That's a great idea.” Theodyl stared at his feet, wiggling his toes to annoy the changelings. “We should give prizes for creativity, cooperation, stealth, and viable results.” “Whomever satisfies Theodyl's requirements will get two days off from training.” Paragon kicked Theodyl out his chair. “Ready yourself, I want to see how well you can use that spear of yours.” The changelings hurried to leave, Paragon has been playing rough lately. Two days away from the nightmare that the war-forged call training is worth the hassle. Theodyl didn't bother doing anything other than changing into a nightshirt. He can tell Paragon wants to talk. The war-forged is about as paranoid as a dragon sitting on a bed of treasure. The bard would complain, except for the number of times that same paranoia has saved his skin. He trusts Paragon, Dol Dorn will wear a dress and put daisies in his hair before that changes. Theodyl smiled at his friend, the war-forged started to worry. “I have been in contact with Pyrus.” Paragon sat on the floor. “The ankle bracelet we removed from your person detonated his laboratory.” “Oh...” The bard tried not to grin. “How much is he charging us?” “No jokes. Read this. Pyrus did some preliminary research on your family background. It isn't good, so far.” Paragon drew a scroll case from inside the stove. “This is a report on one Devee Vair a distant cousin to the d'Vol family. She was an elf, formerly some sort of envoy or herald to the Elven Court. She was married to one Shever Morgain d'Phierlan, also an elf, they had four children. They were all purged except for one male, the oldest, name unknown.” “You say, he may be my father?” Theodyl made a face. “Stargazer said my father worked for House Lyrandar. How can we find out for sure?” “I still have friends in Sharn.” Paragon suggested. “Morik and Fist still work as Inquisitives, we should hire them.” “The ones that you hired to follow me around?” Theodyl pouted. “They are going to need a bodyguard.” “The dwarf is no slouch and Fist is a Longstrider, why do they need a bodyguard?” Paragon protested. “You don't want to insult them.” “Every big time Inquisitive needs a bodyguard,” Theodyl rolled his eyes at having to explain the obvious. “It is a matter of making the right impression. Besides an Inquisitive that can't afford some help doesn't have the right status. I want the best. There is a fellow that I know about.....” “And who would that be?” The war-forged shook his head. “They would have to be damned tough to impress those two.” “Longtooth, from the Gorgon's Eye. He's perfect.” Theodyl assured his friend. “Marik and Fist couldn't find a better man or beast.” “Done. Now I have some questions. How do you kill a lich? Who is this Traveler God the changelings pray to? And what exactly can we do about this Geas the lich tangled you with?” Theodyl sighed. Paragon has a bad habit of saving up his questions and then unleashing them at the oddest of times. The bard spent an hour describing a phylactery and it's functions, as far as he knew. Paragon fixated on finding Mooneye's phylactery and destroying it. Once the war-forged finds a threat, eliminating it becomes an obsession. Theodyl tried to explain other details, but he finally gave up and went on to the next question. The Traveler turned out to be a difficult subject. Paragon interrupted frequently with further questions. For some reason, Paragon wanted to know if Theodyl has ever sought Him out. The bard laughed, he's devoted to Olladra, nothing will lead him away. “What about the Geas” Paragon changed the subject. The bard frowned. The Geas is like a set of chains draped over his spirit. It took him a moment to find the right words. Paragon had difficulty believing that it could not be broken. Theodyl explained that he felt the will of Aureon behind the lich's spell. As he understands the process, he would have to petition the God directly for release. He is afraid that such an act will require further obligations. The truth is that if the Sovereign Host want something, his choices are limited. It would be easier to fulfill the Geas and move on. He doesn't care for Necromancy, personally, but the knowledge bears directly on his current predicament. “Don't make excuses, I won't see you go the way of those Karrnathi ghouls!” Paragon threatened. “Think about what you are doing because I will be watching.” “I'm not the type to play with dead things.” Theodyl frowned. “But you are the type to get into trouble. You poke your nose where you shouldn't and worse, often you do things just because!” Paragon hit the floor with his fist. Theodyl decided to change the subject then. He's already come to a decision about the book of Necromancy. The Geas tells him to learn, not to practice. The bard can work with that. The other books are not a problem. When combined with other books in his library, they are a valuable resource to a fledgling wizard. Theodyl should have the first of the new spells in another month. The notation is giving him trouble, but he's found a solution. When he transcribes the spells into something closer to music, everything is going to be much easier. “Watch me if you will.” Theodyl smiled. In five years, Mooneye is going be very surprised. “I promise you, no disappointments.” Paragon stuck out his hand, Theodyl grasped it. The war-forged met the half-elf's eyes and shook on it. Theodyl may twist the words around, but he won't break a deal. ****** The changelings spent nearly three hours arguing about their assignment. Pook wanted to seduce Juno. Ivor thought it would be a bad idea, Siff agreed. Patter wanted to play a confidence game. Pook agreed with him only because Siff was siding with Ivor. It took another hour of Pook and Patter suggesting different combinations and the other two taking the ideas apart before they had a working plan. The Lightning Rail waited at Thalinost, Juno spent his time cursing Inspector Sanner while at the same time, trying to figure out how to be rid of him. The Conductor stared at the brand on his wrist. Normally, it is hidden by the starched cuffs of his uniform. In Thrane, however it is unlawful to cover such a mark. Once the Inspectors knew about it, they kept on him until they found something wrong. Thrane has laws, but there is no law that protects a former convict from things even a foreigner wouldn't have to endure. In short they want money, every time they see him. “Excuse me, Juno?” A woman approached the brooding Conductor in the dining car. Juno looked to the Hostess, she's supposed to keep his privacy, well, private. She is busy speaking to three other women. Juno recognized them, they are the old widow's attendants. “W-what do you want?” He asked nervously. “We just wanted to get to know you a little better.” Siff smiled, she is wearing a chaste, but form fitting dress. She made a hand sign and frowned when he didn't understand. “You are not a Brother, are you?” “I'm sure I don't know what you are talking about.” Juno got very nervous. “Please, let me be.” The woman made several other signs, no response. “Neither are you a Fellow, or a Lark.” Siff continued. “You are not a Whistler or a Knave. No wonder the Flamer can push you around. You don't have a Guild behind you.” “Guild......” Juno changed colors. “There are no G-Guilds in Thrane.” “A shame, really.” Siff smiled again. “The old woman is a friend of a friend. Her family is very concerned with her Health and her Fortune, we are tasked with the job of keeping her away from bad influences and worse relatives. There are a lot of unscrupulous types out there who would take advantage of an old woman.” Juno felt his mouth go suddenly dry. “I-I-I w-would never.....” Juno started. “I mean to say, that I'm sorry.” The brand on his wrist started to itch. An old witch once told him it is just his imagination, but it feels real to him. “I want to believe you, really I do.” Siff smiled, but her eyes bore into Juno. “But you are a convict with a brand, and you have no one to Speak for you. Sadly, you also have a Flamer pulling you about on a leash.....” “Don't, please.” Juno wiped the sweat from his brow. “I can handle the Inspector, he's greedy, but he doesn't like to dirty his hands. I can offer you contacts, I have connections with the House, they got me this job. Sometimes, I handle special arrangements for them. They tell me things that no one else knows and I can pass this on to you....” “Saeffa,” Siff brushed his hand. “of the Faceless.” Juno felt a cold dread pierce his heart. The Faceless were a Guild of Assassins from Sharn. They were wiped out by the City Watch just after the war. It was very public. From that day on, the Guilds outside the law have kept their heads down. The Faceless have not been heard from since. “....” Juno moved his lips, but no sound came out. Saeffa smiled at him again. “Are you going to kill me?” She pouted. “I have some....” “No bribes.” Siff smiled inwardly. The man is terrified. “The Flamer, tell me about him.” Pook, Patter, and Ivor kept a silent vigil on Siff's meeting. The got a table close enough to over hear most of the action. Among the changelings of Sharn, the Faceless are legend. They ruled the under city with subtlety and terror. No other could rise against them because all others served the Faceless, one way or the other. When the war came to an end, and the powers of the city turned inward, the Faceless refused to give up what they had claimed. After decades of careful planning and boundless profits, their own clients turned against them. The Nobles, the Guilds and their House masters, the City Council, all of them turned and drove their knives in. Siff has always told stories about the Faceless. They were led by changelings and the Traveler blessed their works. “Now tell me about you.” Saeffa continued her casual interrogation. Juno is held by his own fears, hopes, and assumptions. The Traveler teaches that men forge their own chains thus. “How did you come to earn your brand.” ***** Inspector Sanner sat in his office and reviewed his reports. The bureaucracy of Thrane expects paper, long words, and proper stamping, just above the signature. Sanner frowned, he hates paperwork. It took him a moment, but eventually he noticed someone sitting across from his desk. Inspector Sanner was about to say something nasty until he noticed the finely crafted badge on the man's chest. “How may I be of service Ser Orien?” The Inspector stood and greeted his visitor. “I have a small problem with one of our properties.” The man said. “A man by the name of Juno has not been doing his job properly. My sources tell me that you have been distracting him.” “The convict?” Sanner scoffed. “House Orien's convict.” The man raised an eyebrow. “He keeps track of certain kinds of travelers for us. Last month, he failed to notice a certain undesirable and it caused the House some...difficulty. What precisely is your business with our convict, and why do you presume to interfere with our operations?” The Inspector's hands shook, but he showed no other sign of weakness. “I assure you, my office has no interest in House Orien's activities.” Sanner improvised. “The man bears a brand, we merely wanted to keep an eye on him, he is a criminal after all.” “We've had him followed. He is making regular payments to you. I wager that your office is unaware of these transactions. Further, you and Juno are reported to have Solicited donations to some orphanage from one of our passengers. Very bad form, House Orien is very strict about that kind of abuse.” “Please, I assure you, such was not my intention. Juno made the request, I made it a point to keep it from going any further.” Sanner is scared. The man frowned for a moment. “I am willing to believe you. This need not go any further.” “What do you want?” Sanner sighed, he knew this would cost him. “Nothing much. Juno will continue providing special services, for which he will give you 5%, for the orphans.” Sanner cringed. “From time to time he will require help dealing with passengers we don't care for. Or perhaps a client will require a connection in Thalinost. You will assist him.” “But don't you have people to that for House Orien?” Sanner whined. “Yes, but it is expensive, you can do it for free.” The man sneered. “The House, will of course provide you with certain considerations. Juno will gladly assist you, within House regulations, of course.” Inspector Sanner had no choice. Thrane is very strict about commerce with the Houses. His reputation could be ruined, his family would not survive. Sanner accepted House Orien's terms and watched the man stand up, then disappear. If the House Badge, wasn't enough to convince him, a display of teleportation certainly is. The inspector walked out of his office and made for the first tavern he could find. Patter padded right behind, hidden by his Ring of Invisibility. He is sure that he can talk Paragon into a week's vacation from training. ***** Juno spent a very uneasy two hours in his room. Normally, conductors share, four to a suite. He's managed to buy out the others. No one witnessed the visitors when they come. Saeffa came with the others. Juno is still afraid, but he is alive. Good enough. “We have negotiated your release from the Flamer.” The Faceless smiled at him. “He believes you serve House Orien as an agent, now. He will not risk their wrath.” “What?” Juno reeled. “Indeed, we have also lowered your obligation to 5%. His 15% was too much, especially with you doing all the work. He will be more helpful now, as well. You should expect the usual free meals and such from him, but he will not interfere with your work anymore. Happy?” “But I didn't ask for this!” The conductor protested. “Believe me,” Saeffa patted his shoulder. “it is for the best. The Faceless could use a man with your connections. The Lightning Rail touches many lands.” “What do you want?” Juno felt his heart drop. “The House knows about me, I can't do anything out of the ordinary.” “And you won't.” Saeffa assured him. “We want information. We want a way to transport bits and pieces from one place to another. Can you do that for us? You can be a valuable resource along this Rail Line. You could be one of us.” “Yeah, I can do that....” Juno gave in, he is tired of working alone. “What do I have to do?” Siff took charge. Patter handed Juno a package and a few letters. He is to mail them anonymously once he reaches Sharn. Ivor taught the conductor three different hand signs as well as a verbal sign and counter sign. When they left, Pook stayed behind. “Saeffa tells me you got caught in noble's treasury with your hands on his daughter......” Posie purred from the top of Juno's bed. “I like a daring man....” Juno tried to answer, but the seductive scent of roses overwhelmed his thoughts. Pook took charge then. Ivor and Siff are running towards the freight cars. While Siff was talking, Ivor stole one of the conductor's uniforms. With luck, the changeling will be able to impersonate Juno if he doesn't pass Pook's more subtle interrogation. Theodyl has taught them a lot. ***** Siff is the oldest. She was fifteen when she bought the other's out of the sweat factory the head mistress ran in the basement of Saint Othea's Orphanage in Sharn. She had escaped and, in three years, she had saved enough to come back and buy three other children. Siff was disappointed that she couldn't save more, the headmistress was a greedy old hag. She charged more for Ivor because she was still a virgin. Siff never got that mercy. Her family died by fire, a fact that secretly endears her to Theodyl. That night, she was a terrified twelve year old girl. Siff had crawled into a tiny stone chamber beneath fireplace in her room. A week later she crawled out from the ruins of her family's manor and skulked into the alleyways of the under city. She had a knife, a money belt stuffed with silver, and a strange knapsack that could hold an entire pantry of food and drink. It was her mother's. For emergencies, she had said. The night the City Watch purged the Faceless Guild, many orphans were saved by Saint Othea's Orphanage. The Traveler answered her prayers shortly after escaping the orphanage. A dark man took her under his wing after about a month of struggling in the dark alleys and sewers. He taught her to pick pockets, cheat at dice, and to climb into a noble's home to steal. Her Teacher was a blackmailer who considered burglary a pleasing hobby. He became her father. The man taught her how to reach out for the Traveler's blessings. A year later, he became her first lover. Two years later he became her first heartbreak. By then she had lived decades worth of life in a very short amount of time. Siff planned to rob him out of spite. That day she found him dead, inside his own closet. She never new his real name. His savings and whatever else she scraped up paid for Patter, Pook, and Ivor's freedom. They became her gang. She often worries that they are soft, but she can't deny that they are talented. Patter reminds her of her older brother, he's her most frequent lover. The Traveler has kept them alive since. They are as close to a family as he can hope for. Theodyl is a new addition. Siff is cunning, but the bard is in a category all his own. His genius has propelled them to the top, but he is also liable to get them killed with his excessive nature. To her mind, he is a puzzle. Theodyl is a pointy-eared source of awe and frustration. The Traveler likes him too. The others are waiting. Theodyl and Paragon must have beaten each other senseless. Paragon's new armor plate is scored and he is bleeding. Theodyl is still bruised despite the use of a potion and a charge from a healing wand. Javelin looks like the bard managed to use some of his magic. Siff let Pook make their presentation, he's been taking the reins of leadership lately. Patter is smart, but he prefers to play. Ivor is talented but flighty. Siff thinks that she could make a fine cleric if she made the effort to develop her faith. “Well! I am very impressed!” Theodyl beamed. He took their operation apart over a period of two hours. The bard examined everything with a critical eye. If he let anything pass, Paragon would demand more explanations. Towards the end, everyone but Siff was convinced that they had, somehow, failed. “Paragon, I think we should do as Patter suggests.” The bard announced dramatically. “They have earned a week of rest.” “Harrumph, don't think that you can weasel out of your own training!” Paragon nudged Theodyl. “I am proud of your progress, lads.” He said to the changelings. They drank and ate from a tray of delightfully chilled plums. It was a sleepy gathering until the bard spoke up. “I have a thought,” Theodyl made conversation. “We have a very unique opportunity with our friend Juno. It would benefit our enterprise to have a small network in place to help us conduct private business.” “You know that is not in our Business Plan.” Paragon shot down the idea. “Nonsense. I am a wanted outlaw, we need to take certain precautions, make friends etc. Besides, the competition is fierce.” Theodyl continued. “Every House keeps a spy in their stables.” “I think that you are playing another game here.” Paragon challenged the half-elf. “What exactly do you have in mind? Speak up, you would chatter into the night if we let you.” “I want to continue publishing the Sharn Anonymous.” Theodyl announced to his audience. “My upcoming tour through the continent of Khorvaire will provide ample material. Your network must safely and successfully deliver my words to Sharn before I am satisfied of it's success.” “You are chattering again.” Paragon warned. He's starting not to like Theodyl's thinking. “Why exactly should I help you accomplish this?” “The lads can hone their talents completing the links to a network that will stretch along the Lightning Rail.” Theodyl's eyes glittered. “The venture would be an asset to us. I also think that they deserve to take an active and equal role within our enterprise. They are ready Paragon.” “They still hit the training floor too often for my liking.” The war-forged complained. “As long as their skills continue to improve, I will support your decision.” Siff fought not to show her surprise. She had a vague idea about spreading the Faceless legend when she conned the conductor. Theodyl took it a step further. Patter was smiling like a fool. Ivor and Pook are absolutely beaming. “When do you want us to start?” Pook took the initiative. “No rush,” Theodyl smiled. “The rail comes and goes virtually every week. These things take time and, you still don't have a plan.” Patter and Pook mobbed Siff. All three of them started talking at once. They are already working on a few ideas. Paragon jumped in. Ivor casually backed away. She picked Theodyl's door and let herself in. Theodyl threw in several morsels to fuel his friend's lively conversation and then used their divided attentions to follow after his lover. [/QUOTE]
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Adventures in Eberron> Chapter 32 posted 08-08-05>
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