[sblock=Apology]Once again I want to apologize for the delay, I had hoped to have everyone well into the adventure by this point in things. For your patience and the good RP everyone has done with the set-up, pencil yourselves in for 300 XP. Maybe that will help me slide back into the good graces of everyone..

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A well dressed half-orc stands up as you all near the table. His clothes look as if they have seen the passage of time, but they are still of an obviously fine make.
"I am impressed Master Bruce, you wasted no time in honoring your word. Master Aubreck will be pleased to hear of this."
Bowing slightly to you all, the half-orc places a small purse of coins on the table and gestures towards the door.
"A grisly affair earlier, but let us hope the gods guide the watch to those who are guilty."
Walking away from the Harbor District into the Merchant District, Vartheg's pace is steady, but unrushed, and soon he stands before a slightly rusting iron gate in front an older style mansion. It seemed to mirror's Vartheg's clothing, as while it was still a fine building, age was slowly taking its toll on the shutters and grass seemed to be more prominant in the walkway than the stones that lined the entrance path. A dim light could be seen through one of the curtains facing you, but it was not strong enough to see beyond that.
"Master Aubreck is still in the study. Follow me please and I will introduce you to him. I am sure there is much you will both wish to say."
Pushing the gate open and leading you inside, the air is heavy with stale air and silence, and thick covers are cast over all the visible hallway furniture and artwork. Walking through the open door ahead of him, Vartheg's cultured voice carries easily in the silence of the house.
"Master Aubreck, those who would assist you are in the hallway. Shall I show them in?"
"So soon? You have either good luck, or still believe I am chasing phantoms."
"My beliefs are not what you tasked me to find Master Aubreck, but they are. Among them are a Walker and a child of Istus, so perhaps the gods wish to snub my lack of faith and reward yours."
"Good...good...bring them in and fetch a bottle of firewine and some glasses."
Stepping out into the hallway once more, Vartheg motions for you to approach.
"Master Aubreck will see you now. I shall return in a moment with refreshments."
A tall slender older man with iron gray hair stands as you enter into the study, His hair is pulled back into a short tail and his mustache is neatly trimmed and his threadbare clothes might have been the height of fashion a few years ago, but now seem battered and worn.
"I thank you for coming on short notice and I trust that Vartheg mentioned that what we will speak of tonight will not leave this room. I know that silvers can make a hungry pouch loosen a man's tongue, but I assure you that my offer can be enough to keep that pouch full for many months if well tended."
Waiting a moment for his words to sink in, Aubreck puts down the quill he was holding and motions for you to be seated.
"I am prepared to offer you each one hundred gold crowns tonight if you are willing to sail with the Pearl of Winter in the morning. I am risking the last of my fortune for what they are after, but to ensure success I need men who I know are working for me. Before I say more, I need to know if you are those men."