The Westgate Campaign Chronicles - serial

[Carlo_One]

Chapter II: House Thalavar’s Need

Chapter II: House Thalavar’s Need

An Odd Couple

After exiting the Rotten Root tavern in Mulsantir's Gate district, where he was working as a bouncer, Marik Tann was engulfed by darkness and fell into unconsciousness. Marik woke up, somewhat dazed, in a room inside Castle Thalavar. When Jokull of Arabel first entered the room where Marik had been locked up, Marik accused Jokull of being a thief and warned Jokull that he was more than capable of defending himself, despite the sword on Jokull's hip. Introductions were made and Jokull explained where Marik was. Jokull then said that he had heard Marik was involved with a local assassins guild. At first Marik denied this, saying he was merely a bouncer at a local tavern. Eventually, with his hand on his sword hilt, Jokull asked what Marik knew of the Fire Knives.

Marik cagily said he knew a little about them. He explained that they were ex-Cormyrian nobles and still had many contacts with the nobility, but he was not aware they were in Westgate. Marik thought the local guild, the Night Masks, wouldn't allow it. Jokull then stated that he and House Thalavar needed help in tracking down the Fire Knives in Westgate. Marik said he would help as long as he was well paid.

Jokull told Marik that he knew Marik used to work with the Fire Knives; Marik reluctantly confirmed the story. He said he had left them, not on very good terms, about three years ago. Marik asserted that he could still recognize some faces in the organization, though it wouldn't help to start naming names, because those changed every day. Later, after Jokull insisted on knowing exactly why he had left the Fire Knives, Marik admitted that he had been kicked out for beating up the wrong noble. Jokull then asked Marik what he could do to help find the Fire Knives in Westgate and Marik presented a few suggestions. Among other things, Marik mentioned that back in Tilverton, the guild had hidden themselves in the city's sewers, so it was possible that they done the same in Westgate as well.

Jokull told Marik to make himself comfortable and went outside to summon Iono, the Castle Thalavar Steward. After Jokull returned, Marik asked him why he was doing this - why did Jokull want to find the Fire Knives? Jokull refused to reveal his personal motives, but he showed his Purple Dragon tower shield to Marik, who, although surprised, nodded with understanding. They both agreed on the irony of an ex-Fire Knife working with a former Purple Dragon soldier. Iono arrived and, after hearing Marik's tentative commitment to work against the Fire Knives, mentioned that he believed the Fire Knives might be connected with two of Westgate's newest noble houses, Cormaeril and Bleth, both exiles from Cormyr.

After Iono left, Jokull resumed his questioning, asking Marik about his past connections with the guild. Marik tried to avoid the subject by responding with questions of his own, but eventually he was convinced to speak about his work for the Fire Knives. Marik said that, in the beginning, the jobs were quite simple. The leaders of the guild would ask him to beat up an enemy (or a client), or scare customers into paying their debts to the guild. Slowly he progressed through the lower ranks of the guild, but he never heard any details of what was going on with the higher-ups in the Knives' organization. Marik revealed that besides the usual smuggling activities and charging inns or taverns for "protection" (from the Fire Knives themselves, of course), the guild often dealt with politics, because of their connections with the nobility, and performed assassinations. Marik did not speak much more about his removal from the guild, other than that he had messed with the wrong people, and was still paying for it.

The final topic of their conversation was to determine Marik's compensation - a subject Marik had insisted on raising quite frequently. It was agreed that he would not be paid until the job was done, except regarding whatever equipment he needed for protection. When the proposal was presented to Iono, he asked Jokull what he thought of the offer and of Marik's capabilities. Jokull agreed that opposing the Fire Knives was a dangerous task, and though he wished things were different, the only option they had was working with an ex-Fire Knife. Marik added that the low number of ex-Fire Knives who could remain alive was proof enough that he was more than capable, and Iono agreed to the proposal. Jokull was relieved that he was finding aid in his quest and believed the Steel Regent, Alusair of Cormyr, would be pleased once this threat was eradicated, as would Jokull himself. Iono handed Marik a sum of gold to allow him to buy the necessary supplies for their investigation and asked that they return to the castle the afternoon of the following day to discuss details.

When Jokull asked for a suggestion regarding a good inn, Iono said that they could stay at the castle for that night. Departing the castle, Jokull lead Marik to the Market district, and they quickly found the store that Iono had indicated. While Marik went to buy a chain shirt and a scimitar, Jokull went looking for a map of the city. Once they had both bought maps, they left the store. On the street, Marik warily asked Jokull if he was known as a Purple Dragon. Jokull said that he had been a sergeant in the army and the men in his family had fought for Cormyr for many generations. However, while his fame lied mostly with his family's name, that name had been left behind in Arabel. Nevertheless, Marik was a little bothered, believing it might not be a good thing if they were seen together.

With still a few hours to go before the evening, Jokull and Marik stopped at a nearby tavern. Jokull was still unsure of Marik's intentions; Marik said that his only intention was to get enough coin to go to a peaceful place, one that was as far away as possible. If Marik could eliminate the reason for being forced to be on the run, even better. Jokull asked if he would return to Cormyr, as the kingdom still needed capable men to clear the lands of the remnants of the Goblin Wars. Jokull spoke of his kingdom with pride, but Marik indicated he did not yet know where he would go afterwards. Sitting at their table in the Black Eye tavern, they spoke of many things, until the time came to return to Castle Thalavar and get some rest after a long day. As they both knew, the next day would be even longer.

 

[Carlo_One]

A Baron's Thanks

Meanwhile, as the Six Points Adventuring Company approached Turnton, Brok-Tul was overcome with weakness following his ordeal. Two members of Carlin's baronial guard detail, using Brok-Tul's shield Picnic Table as a sledge, spirited him on ahead to the Temple of Helm.

The rest of the party arrived shortly afterward outside the town walls. By the entrance to the main gate was a large stone statue of a hand, sculpted in a warding gesture. Carlin was recognized by the guards and the party was let through. Disdaining a stop at the inn, the party pressed on to Baron Pahar's manor, passing the Temple of Helm and the town's general store on the way. The party noticed that there was a remarkable lack of damage in and around Turnton, given the fact it had been in a state of siege just recently. After waiting in the entrance hall, Carlin escorted the party to Pahar's audience hall, where he warmly greeted them and excused a tired Carlin.

Recent events were discussed with the Baron. Regarding the party's suggestion to go after Hallton, Pahar demurred, saying that he neither wanted to completely disrupt the balance of power, drawing unwanted attention upon himself, nor strain his limited resources. Pahar made the point that Hallton evidently had a powerful, unknown sponsor who likely had not exhausted their resources. Pahar led his tired guests to temporary quarters where they could rest and have their needs tended to. Rahnee requested that her armor be cleaned and mended. After a few hours' rest, the group reconvened in Pahar's audience hall, Rahnee arriving in a flowing green gown to the surprise and praise of the others present.

Pahar settled into his baronial chair and began to discuss rewards for the party. Visibly upset, he confessed that he had largely been bankrupted by the conflict with Hallton, and had not been a rich noble to begin with. He stated that he had relatively little to give in terms of money. Aerikoth spoke up at this point and told the baron there were other rewards than monetary sums. Pahar agreed, smiling, saying that he had thought of this and appreciated Aerikoth's observation. The baron then produced personalized writs for the four adventurers, giving them honorary captaincies in the baronial guard along with free passage and use of any of the baron's resources throughout his domain. He also mentioned that the group could keep the arms and armor they had collected from Hallton's defeated forces, although he would appreciate any donations they could make. Finally, he passed a small pouch of gold to each, saying that it was a token of his respect.

Pahar said that he had some good news for the company, and a proposition. While the baron could no longer afford to keep an adventuring company on the payroll, he had recommended their services to House Thalavar in Westgate. He explained that Thalavar, a sometime ally of his, could use the services of a relatively unknown group in order to undertake certain special assignments. The group would receive a bonus simply for discussing the prospect with Iono, the steward of Castle Thalavar. After some time for discussion, the party willingly agreed, stating they would depart for the city when Brok- Tul fully recovered. Pahar asked them to make sure to say good-bye before they departed Turnton. After departing the Manor, the party went to the general store for some provisions, including a set of new clothes for a somewhat embarrassed Aratae. Aratae headed for the local inn after his purchase, while Rahnee went to the temple to look in on Brok-Tul, and Aerikoth remained behind to talk with the merchant.

The next day, a visibly-recovered Brok-Tul, Rahnee, and Aerikoth made their final preparations to leave Turnton. Rahnee had been left a note by Aratae, saying that he was going to visit his home village and would try and catch up with them in Westgate. The three departed Turnton and made their way to Glees, where the recently-returned villagers hailed them as heroes. At the roadside inn they greeted Undt, who had returned and reopened his business. Undt was excited to see them and thanked them again for saving his inn. He pointed out where the Hallton soldiers' equipment, previously retrieved by the party, had been stacked. The three went through the equipment and picked out what they could carry, leaving the rest for the Baron's men. After they had finished sorting through the equipment and consuming a few ales gratefully provided by Undt, Undt insisted that the "heroes" say a few words to the village patrons in the inn, which included two baronial soldiers. Rahnee took the lead in speaking to the people assembled in the common room, thanking the villagers and calling Undt a hero as well for providing aid during the crisis. Brok-Tul also received some bashful attention from one of the female villagers. The party departed to the cheers of those present.

After arriving in Westgate, the group made its way back to the Gatereach Inn. Jandrico Swift greeted them and expressed his sadness at hearing of Jamorin's demise. He then asked the company what they wanted to do with a package of books that the inn's staff had found under a loose floorboard in Jamorin's room while cleaning. Rahnee claimed them, so Jandrico removed the dirty wrapper for her and handed over two books, indicating that he of course had not opened them. The weary group then went upstairs to their rooms.

 

[Carlo_One]

Audience at Castle Thalavar

In the morning, Rahnee gave Jandrico Swift a note to courier to Castle Thalavar that informed Iono of their arrival. After breakfast, the courier returned with a message that the group was expected at the castle at their earliest convenience. When the party attempted to settle the bill for the night, Swift indicated that he would carry them on account if they planned to continue staying there, as they were trusted patrons.

At the castle, once Rahnee gave her name and that of the company, the guard allowed them to enter. Iono greeted them in the entrance hall, expressing his sadness at the loss of Jamorin and for the demise of Baron Pahar’s messenger, who had accompanied them in departing Westgate. Iono then led the group to an empty side chamber, where he gave them a short, private briefing on two people they were about to meet: Jokull, a well-respected former soldier of Cormyr, and Marik, a former Fire Knife. The party then accompanied Iono to the audience hall, where Jokull and Marik were sitting, and made introductions.

Iono began by indicating that the two Thalavar guards in the chamber were of the highest honor and would not speak of their discussion to anyone else, nor should the group. He then asked Marik to tell his tale. Marik, originally from Tilverton, explained he had been kicked out of the Fire Knives in Cormyr and had spent the last few years wandering, ending up in Westgate. He had awoken the previous day in Castle Thalavar, having been kidnapped by Thalavar agents, and after some discussion with Iono and Jokull had been made an offer to assist them against the Fire Knives in Westgate. Marik had been unaware that the guild was in Westgate and was not happy to hear of their presence, although he was willing enough to assist House Thalavar against them - in return for compensation.

Iono continued, saying that he considered the Fire Knives the most urgent threat facing House Thalavar, given the guild's vendetta against Cormyr and House Thalavar's close business ties to its Obarskyr rulers. Two exiled Cormyrian noble houses, Bleth and Cormaeril, now resided in Westgate and were suspected of sponsoring the Fire Knives. It was Iono's idea to put together a small band of adventurers, unconnected to House Thalavar, to identify and help neutralize the threat. He stated that their group was yet well-known in Westgate, a considerable advantage in this respect, and each member could bring unique skills and talents to the task. In response to some doubtful questions from Brok-Tul, Iono promised to discuss compensation and details of the mission and what was specifically known about the Fire Knives, but indicated he first wanted to know if the Six Points Adventuring Company would be interested in the task; for their own reasons, Jokull and Marik had already agreed to help. Brok-Tul, Rahnee, and Aerikoth agreed to discuss the matter and moved to the back of the chamber for some privacy. As Iono took his seat, he watched the discussion across the room begin.

 

[Carlo_One]

Rahnee quietly studied her two companions for a moment or two and then finally said, "He is right that nobody knows us here. That would leave us a lot of latitude. And it is not necessarily a bad thing to have a noble patron. The Gods only know that it's worked for the Roaringhorn Clan time and again - in both directions. I tend to think we invite ourselves to the party." Her eyes twinkled and she shrugged. "Besides which, what else do we have planned?"

Brok-Tul rose and went with Rahnee and Aerikoth to the back of the room, but from his facial expression seemed to be certain they would be heard anyway. Also, with some surprise, he looked back at the two others who were to join them, and frowned. "If they're gonna join us, they better do it now so we can parley reward as a team. If we all go together on our rewards, we'll trust each other more. I don't like that Fire-Knife. He's way too lackadaisical. Just knowing he got himself caught by Thalavar's men is disturbing enough to doubt his skills. If he got caught by Thalavar, he'll get caught by the Knives again and coerced to betray our plans. Better to take Thalavar's offer, come up with a reward, and investigate what Thalavar really wants from us, not just what he tells us. We're being set up, I can feel it."

Aerikoth stood calmly as he listened to first Rahnee and then Brok-Tul, his expression emotionless as they spoke. His relaxed demeanor remained as he put forth his own thoughts in a tone that sounded as indifferent as if he were bartering for produce at the market. "I wonder why they need us. I would think that a true noble and potent house would not rely on a relatively unknown group, such as we are presently, to handle, as Iono stated, House Thalavar's greatest threat. No, I would think a truly powerful house would crush those that threaten them, but then again the ways of some are completely alien to me." Aerikoth's eyes narrowed and looked distant as he thought for a moment in silence. When he next spoke his voice and expression remained icy calm. "I am in agreement with Lady Roaringhorn on taking Iono up on his offer. We can always change our minds and if nothing else it may create some opportunities that are not evident presently."

Rahnee interjected, "Of course we are being set up, Brok-Tul. I think that is a given any time you deal with a noble house." Her smile was self-mocking. "It is obvious that House Thalavar wants something done that it cannot do - for whatever reason. It may be as simple as its known agents are being watched, and countered, whereas we, the unknown mouse in the pantry, can slip through the shadows to play in the grain. I too do not trust the Fire Knife, Brok-Tul, but perhaps that can be turned to our advantage somehow."

Rahnee studied Iono and the two men across the room. "It is apparent that Iono has already reached a deal with those two. Whatever our fee may be will come separately from that, I think. But you both speak with wisdom. We are in agreement then?" Brok-Tul snorted in response. "On the takin' the job, yeah. On the reward, no. I want my armor an' shield completely refitted and enchanted, and my weapon too before we go. Afterwards, I'll expect a nice house on the city's outskirts, a small title with a nice place to start renting out for some revenue. Plus a thousand gold. We're taking on an entire hidden network of assassins, after all." Rahnee stared at the big half-orc in stunned amazement and then began to chuckle quietly. "Fine, Brok-Tul, I'll add that to the negotiations. Aerikoth, what would you consider fair recompense, based on what we do not know about the real task?"

Suddenly an arrested look crossed her face. "Ahh, why not? What if Clan Roaringhorn had sent an envoy to Westgate to investigate getting the appropriate patents, whatever, to open up a trading house here? Even if these other Houses teleport someone to Waterdeep to check on the story, I am covered. Clan Roaringhorn IS a member of Waterdhavian nobility after all." Her eyes sparkled as her mind churned. "We get House Thalavar to set us up with a house and whatever else is necessary. Then we can work both sides of this problem: the nobility as well as the dark streets. And if I am recognized from my earlier searches for information, tis simple enough a response. I was here early testing the market, subtly and quietly. Hmm…the Lady Roaringhorn with her entourage that includes her personal wizard, her bodyguard…Brok, just how well known ARE you here in Westgate? Any potential problems?" Grinning, she added, "And of course the house could be part of our payment. It would give us a base of operations here in Westgate."

One of Aerikoth's eyebrows raised slightly as he heard the thoughts and ideas for payment come issuing forth from his comrades. "I shall wait to hear what the steward has to say when regarding compensation for our efforts. At that time I shall make any requests I may have for alterations as needed to suit my desires. I am sure those he serves have an idea of what they plan to offer." The short, olive-skinned man then glanced at both his comrades for a moment and spoke in a calm, almost apathetic voice. "Your ideas have a modicum of merit but I think it might be in our best interest to see what is expected of us and then to hear what House Thalavar offers as remuneration. I am not overly familiar with the ways of the aristocracy of these northern lands but I can easily see how demanding certain payments might be misconstrued as an insult. In my opinion we should wait to hear what the exacting details of the task are and what our employer is willing to offer."

Nodding to Aerikoth's words, Brok-Tul turned back to Rahnee. "I can be your bodyguard: good cover story. Fits in with what Helm wants of me anyway. And…the Masks don't want me comin' near 'em, an' have me on blackout. So I can't expect their help. I'm pretty well-known on my blocks, an' am sure one out of ten agents would recognize me from the old days. I could pass as another half-orc though if I use the refit of my gear as a disguise, and wear a helmet in public." He nodded also to Rahnee and then looked over to Iono. His eyes were thoughtful, concerned.

Rahnee commented, "And if you are recognized, Brok-Tul, then it's simple enough - you're running a con game on that poor dumb stupid noblewoman." Nodding decisively at Aerikoth's words, Rahnee added, "All right, let us see what House Thalavar really wants from us." Stepping between the two men, she sauntered languidly towards Iono. "Six Points accepts your commission, sir. Of course, that acceptance does depend on the final negotiated fee." Her smile was friendly, slightly wicked, but her eyes were serious as she looked at the Steward.

 

[Carlo_One]

Iono smiled with pleasure. "Indeed, I am glad to hear that your company is interested in undertaking this mission. Call your compatriots over and I shall discuss what House Thalavar is willing to do to support you. I shall also offer you what information we have on the threat posed by the Fire Knives - and exactly what we expect of you." Iono pulled a sealed letter from a pouch. "Before I forget, Lady Roaringhorn, we received a missive for you recently, please take this."

After taking a seat in one of the chairs, Rahnee cast a quick look at the sealed message - a look that was enough to cause her to break the seal and open the message. As Iono began speaking, Rahnee's eyes quickly followed her brother's almost illegible handwriting. At the end, she refolded the parchment and slipped it into a small pocket on the backside of her swordbelt. Her face remained politely interested as she languidly crossed her legs to rest a booted foot on the opposite knee. But her fingers fluttered across her raised knee and then rapped twice against the the dagger hilt barely seen above the top of her boot, and her eyelids were half-closed as she looked at Brok-Tul. *Interesting news*

Brok-Tul came over once he saw Rahnee sit, and sat next to her in a chair. After watching her read the note, he furrowed his hairy brows at her expression and reaction. Noting her lidded eyes, he nodded and then reverted his attention back to Iono. "Well, I see that you are indeed interested, for which I am pleased," said Iono, who appeared satisfied and slightly relieved. "I will discuss exact compensation with your adventuring company in private. However, I shall discuss what House Thalavar is willing to provide all of you in this endeavor." Iono cleared his throat.

"First, supporting a base of operations. Castle Thalavar and any Thalavar holdings are out of the question, since they would link you to us. However, I believe your group can relatively easily find reasonable long-term lodgings, preferably private, which we will compensate you for. Second, we will advance a portion of your fee for you to purchase additional personal equipment. Third, any major expenses you may have that are of great importance to your success, you may submit for reimbursement, at my discretion."

Iono's tone hardened. "Now, I shall talk more of what House Thalavar wishes in this matter." He went on to describe in detail how a certain Captain Yar, one of Thalavar's most trusted ship captains in the Westgate-Cormyr trade, had been killed two weeks prior, his corpse found by the House Ssemm docks in the Harbor Loop district. On the body, placed in plain view, was a fancy playing card bearing an image of a dagger, oriented point down, and surrounded by flame. Rumors recently heard about a resurgence of the Fire Knives and their old vendetta against the ruling Obarskyrs of Cormyr appear to have been confirmed by this act, as the card carried the unmistakable symbol of the assassins' guild.
"It was clearly intended to send a message," continued Iono. "The body otherwise could have simply been dumped in the harbor. We interpret it as a clear warning to any, particularly our House, who wish to have strong ties to Cormyr, business or otherwise. As business with Cormyr accounts for a considerable amount of our income, this is very worrisome, as you can imagine." Iono paused for breath. "We already have increased security for our operations and are on the alert for anything suspicious. However, we need information about our enemy in order to eliminate the threat. Who in Westgate houses the Fire Knives? Where is their headquarters? What are their plans? Why choose now to strike and in this fashion? House Thalavar is not without resources to defend itself, but must know where and how to strike. Our own agents, unfortunately, may be too well known for this task. And..." Iono's voice darkened as he paused. "We cannot know if we ourselves have been penetrated by Fire Knives. Only with a group brought in from the outside, such as yourselves, can we be sure of this."

"I understand that some of you may need to attend to other matters before embarking on this mission, as this will, I expect, take your full attention once you begin. We will also need to agree on a method of secret communication, to avoid having you come to Castle Thalavar so often. If I may make a suggestion, you as a group should consider adopting a new name, at least for this mission, which you can use to refer to yourselves in communiques." Iono concluded, "I shall of course entertain any questions by the group and, when Lady Rahnee, Aerikoth, and Brok-Tul are ready, privately talk of their fee."

 

[Carlo_One]

Jokull adjusted himself on his chair and began to speak. "As I said, Cormyr is particularly vulnerable since last year. The kingdom has not yet fully recovered from the Goblin Wars. Many have died, one of our greatest cities is in ruins, and beasts roam the countryside. We do not have enough men to both rebuild our defenses and stand up against those who strike from the shadows. If that was not enough, so-called noble families have commited outright treason, and King Azoun IV was killed. Her Highness Princess Alusair now struggles day by day to bring Cormyr to its former glory, but the situation is dire nevertheless. That is why these traitors and...murderers...that call themselves Fire Knives have chosen to strike at this time. That it why they will try to bring every one of Cormyr's allies and acquaintances to ruin." Jokull hesitated for a moment, looking into Iono's eyes, and continued. "But you may rest assured, I will not allow any further harm to come to Cormyr or House Thalavar."

Rahnee explained to the group that the sealed letter passed to her by Iono was from her brother and required her to attend to urgent family business over the next day or so. She planned to check back with Iono regarding how to contact the group, or would ask at the Gatereach Inn. Rahnee told Brok-Tul and Aerikoth to negotiate in her absence regarding compensation, although she would want to sign off on any final deal. Meanwhile, Marik, having already reached his own deal with Iono, headed off to, as he put it, "settle up a few things." He planned to recontact the group at the Gatereach Inn, not wanting to enter Castle Thalavar again.

Iono stated that he hoped they were satisfied with the offer of a reasonable accommodations for the group, grimacing when Brok-Tul raised the prospect of a manor and servants. Iono said he would leave it up to the group to find something suitable and suggested talking to Jandrico Swift as a starting point, since he was known for quality services and discretion with clients. Before making his offer to the group, Iono told Jokull that he would receive the same compensation as the others, although Jokull was pursuing this mission for his own personal reasons. Jokull said he wouldn't need any additional compensation, but Iono stated that House Thalavar had sufficient resources to reward him properly for his work. Iono then laid out his offer: 1,000 gold for the mission, with 500 gold provided in advance, and plain, untraceable magical daggers for each adventurer. The group agreed, with Aerikoth complimenting Iono on the munificence and generosity of House Thalavar.

Aerikoth raised the question of how communications would be handled with Iono or another Thalavar agent, given the need to operate in secrecy. Iono indicated he still needed to finalize his plans; however, he told the group a secret location would be established where messages and small items could be left by Thalavar agents for the group and vice versa. It was agreed to prepare a suitable location at the outskirts of the city; when Rahnee returned to speak with Iono, he would pass her the details. Iono also recommended that the group adopt a new name, at least for the duration of the mission. That way, in an emergency the group could have a sealed letter delivered for Iono's eyes only at the castle and signed under the new, previously unknown name. Iono apologized for the elaborate precaution, but explained, his face darkening, that it was necessary given the possibility that House Thalavar had been penetrated by the Fire Knives.

Iono then provided further guidance for the mission against the Fire Knives. House Thalavar's objective was to unmask the Fire Knives in Westgate, discover their hideout and who, specifically, was sponsoring them. Going further, Iono wanted to understand why the Fire Knives had chosen to take their battle with Cormyr to the docks of Westgate, murdering Captain Yar. Iono made it clear that the mission was not to eliminate the Knives, but rather their threat to House Thalavar in Westgate - a distinction understood well by Aerikoth, but one that made Jokull visibly unhappy. Once House Thalavar had the full picture, Iono said it would take the "necessary measures." Should the group have suggestions as to the form of these measures, Thalavar would of course consider them.

After sending one of the guards to fetch the magic daggers, Iono outlined some additional information for the group. Detailed information on Captain Yar's murder was being scribed and would be given to Rahnee when she next saw Iono. The exiled Cormyrian houses, Bleth and Cormaeril, were fingered as probable sponsors of the Fire Knives. House Bleth was based in the South Gate district, residing at the Blue Banner Inn while their castle was being built at a nearby site. Cormaeril's castle was on the northwestern edge of the city, adjacent to a wooded vale. After some additional discussion, Iono distributed the advance payments and daggers and asked that Tymora smile upon their deeds.

Aerikoth separated from the group once outside the castle, promising to meet them in several hours at the Gatereach Inn. Brok-Tul and Jokull proceeded to the Gatereach, devising a plan to have Jokull meet and befriend Brok-Tul by "accident" at the inn in order to better conceal their mission. Once at the inn, Brok-Tul asked Jandrico Swift about possible permanent lodgings, given Brok-Tul's impending "retirement" and possible future business involving the reworking of martial equipment. Jandrico showed Brok-Tul the Gatereach guest house, which had been empty for several months, and the two stuck a preliminary deal. Aerikoth arrived, sporting a new set of robes, and the three briefly discussed Brok-Tul's pending deal.

 

[Carlo_One]

Campaign Chronicles: interlude from "C"

I stopped reading and shut the leather cover of the journal, as it would shortly be time for my evening meditations. After the party's rather disastrous battle with the Hallton forces, they seemed to have recovered well, and even managed to strike a favorable deal with House Thalavar. I appreciated seeing the detailed thought put into the negotiations with the Westgate noble house - I shall remember these considerations for any similar future dealings I may have.

While it was heartening to read of Turnton's unscathed nature after the Hallton siege, I found it strange and not congruent with the story being told, that of an outmatched barony barely holding its own against its neighbor. What had truly happened during the battle there? I also found the reference to the statue of the Hand at Turnton's gates intriguing.

My predecessor "R" was silent in his thoughts during the previous section. Of course, with the party now focused on the Fire Knife threat, they had seemed to forget about other problems. I wonder what was in Jamorin's hidden books, for example...

 

[Carlo_One]

First Steps

Aerikoth had again departed on his own business and Marik was still tying up loose ends when Rahnee returned to the Gatereach Inn. Jokull also had recently returned, having made a short foray into the sewers to reconnoiter for a possible Fire Knives hideout; all he found were some diseased rats, which he was forced to dispatch. Brok-Tul expressed surprise at the results of Jokull’s expedition, since under the old Night Masks the sewers had been known for being deadly with traps and other dangers. Brok-Tul took the opportunity to seal the deal with Jandrico Swift for leasing the Gatereach's guest house. Terms of the lease were 400 gold per month for three months, each month's payment due at the beginning of the month. Any of those staying at the guest house would also have their existing account at the Gatereach taken care of. Jandrico passed over four keys to the house at Brok-Tul's request. Brok-Tul kept up a running patter about plans for his "customizing business," which Jandrico politely listened to while finishing the paperwork.

While examining the guesthouse, Rahnee filled the others in on her discussion that day with Iono of House Thalavar. Most importantly, he had spoken to her about the secret message location, imparting the following directions: from the southwest corner of the Spitting Cockatrice compound, located in the district outside West Gate, walk 10 paces west to a spruce tree. From there, walk 2 paces north, and 6 paces west. An old tree was there, with a hollow space where a knot would normally be. Jokull's wish to write down the information was denied by Rahnee, in the interests of secrecy. The group decided to visit the location, in order to fix it in their mind. As cover for their trip to the area, they stopped first at the Spitting Cockatrice, an inn catering to well-heeled merchants. Brok-Tul had the idea of advertising for his "business" as additional cover. While there, he queried the innkeeper - who was somewhat taken aback by the half-orc’s approach - whether a notice about the business could be posted. After receiving multiple "no's", and drawing some attention from the inn's guards, Brok-Tul deferred to Rahnee. She smoothed over the notice issue and asked the innkeeper if he knew of a good scribe or crier. He recommended checking the Temple District for a temple scribe and looking in the Market for a crier.

Rahnee, in need of a map, led the group to Shalush Myrkeer's sprawling shop in the Market district. Brok-Tul asked for an appointment with Shalush and was politely refused multiple times by the assistant, with the half-orc again drawing guards' attention. Rahnee stepped in, explaining that she was visiting nobility from Waterdeep in search of new business to conduct. The shop assistant indicated that Mr. Myrkeer was always glad to make time for visiting nobility and would inform Rahnee regarding her appointment on the following day. Rahnee thanked the man and said she would send a messenger the next day, walking out with a regal bearing, Brok-Tul and Jokull in her wake. The group then went to the Temple district and entered Fortuneboon Hall, the temple of Tymora, in search of a scribe.

After some time, the entire group - Aerikoth Ankharat, Jokull of Arabael, Rahnee Roaringhorn, Brok-Tul, and Marik Tann - found their separate ways back to the Gatereach Inn. Aerikoth and Marik, at Brok-Tul's direction, received keys to the Gatereach guesthouse from the unfailingly polite Jandrico Swift. Jandrico however refused Brok-Tul's request to place traps near the guest house, citing potential problems with his clientele. After moving themselves to a more private gathering-spot, the first floor guesthouse’s master bedroom, the group conferred about what they knew so far. Marik related a tale he had obtained from an "independent source" that corroborated what Iono, the Castle Thalavar steward, had told the rest of the group about Houses Bleth and Cormaeril and the murder of a Thalavar ship captain. Marik also noted that the City Watch was keeping quiet about the incident and added that the Thalavars had a reputation for honest dealing. Rahnee mentioned the existence of the secret message drop near the Spitting Cockatrice to Aerikoth and Marik and promised to show them where it was. Tired from their activities, the group separated, after some discussion regarding which rooms each would take. Rahnee and Brok-Tul ended up with the master bedroom, while the others took individual rooms upstairs. (Well, now it seems more clear why the Lady Roaringhorn puts up with the antics of the half-orc, who should probably give many thanks to Tymora for his blessing. --R) Aerikoth selected one with a window.

 

[Carlo_One]

The next day, the party gathered downstairs, then headed to the Gatereach for breakfast. A bleary-looking Rahnee demanded tea, which was provided by the indefatigable Jandrico Swift. Jandrico told Brok-Tul, in response to a question, that the group could install a bathtub and small kitchen in the guest house if they liked. Janatha, a pretty young woman previously not encountered by the group at the Gatereach, brought a serving-tray of tea to their table. Brok-Tul asked her if she could tell him if anyone from Houses Bleth or Cormaeril came to the inn, which she agreed to readily, but then became puzzled when Brok-Tul also asked her not to tell them of the group's presence. Brok-Tul explained that he simply wanted to approach them himself, if they came to the inn. She agreed politely, although after she left the party overheard her in the distance asking Jandrico if it was all right to follow Brok-Tul's instructions. (Janatha's introduction shows her to be a somewhat naive girl, although intelligent enough to not simply follow the half-orc's instructions. --R)

Aerikoth commented on Rahnee and Brok-Tul's voracious appetites and queried if there was a particular reason for it. After some banter about the possibilities, Brok-Tul mentioned that he had a book which belonged to a slain comrade that should be identified. Following some additional wolfing of food, the group adjourned to the guesthouse for privacy. Brok-Tul, at Rahnee's bidding, showed the group the copy of the official City Watch report on the murder of Captain Yar, originally given to Rahnee by Iono. The report tracked with Iono and Marik's accounts and added details about how the body was found near the Ssemm docks in the Harbor Loop. The party debated for some time the merits of presenting themselves as mercenaries to the two suspect Houses, with Marik's possible notoreity as a former Fire Knife being something of a sticking point. The desire to set up Brok-Tul's cover business was also discussed. In the end, it was decided that they should split up, with Jokull and Marik - acting as Rahnee's "major-domos" - going to confirm her appointment at Shalush Myrkeer's for the following day at hour 10.

Meanwhile, Brok-Tul, Rahnee, and Aerikoth went to the Westward Eye to try and get additional information out of Jard, the Mercenaries Guild recruiter. Jard cheerfully agreed to have some glasses of Westgate Ruby bought for him by Rahnee while they engaged in conversation. Jard also remembered Aerikoth as being part of the group who had won the original Amee Pass outpost contract offered by Baron Pahar. Expressing his appreciation for their deeds, Jard noted that none of the others who had accompanied Aerikoth appeared to be around. Rahnee explained their absence as the "turn of the coin." (I wonder - is it truly due to providence that none of Aerikoth's companions remain from the campaign against the necromancer? There are still questions to be answered there. --C)

Rahnee then, rather disingenuously, informed Jard that the company was without a contract and that she had heard some of the Houses - for example, Bleth and Cormaeril - might be hiring, although she understood most didn't usually recruit outside talent. Jard confirmed that fact with a chuckle, noting that the original contract with Baron Pahar, for example, had been on behalf of a minor rural noble who was less choosy about what mercenary groups he employed. Regarding Bleth and Cormaeril, Jard indicated he hadn't heard anything unusual about their hiring efforts, but added with a wink that since it was Guild business, he wouldn't talk to outsiders about it if he had. In response to Rahnee's question about what it took to join the Mercenaries Guild, Jard told her it required three things: a year of probation, during which they had to accept any contract given them by the Guild, although they could opt out of one of their choosing; a bond of 100 gold per person; and their first assignment to be on behalf of the Guild and uncompensated, as a sort of "test run." Jard told Rahnee if she were serious, to go to Guild headquarters in East Gate and ask to speak to Varen Malavhan, who was in charge of recruiting.

After departing, the three agreed that joining the Guild at that time was unwise, although they were split regarding the fairness of the terms. Aerikoth thought the terms were preposterous, although Rahnee stated they were more or less normal for a professional mercenary company in a large city. The three headed to the Market district to stop by Aurora's Emporium on an errand for the Roaringhorn clan. Marik found them there, while returning from his own errand to Shalush Myrkeer's shop, and informed Rahnee that her appointment with Shalush had been confirmed. He also mentioned that Jokull had gone off on "other business." Marik had taken the initiative to walk by the Ssemm docks area and told the group that there was a sewer entrance very close to where Captain Yar's body had been found. Marik said he had poked around in the sewers, encountered a large spider, and decided to come back up. (The sewers of Westgate contain many ills. --R) (This is something I shall mark well for the future, should I find myself there. --C)

 

[Carlo-One]

Campaign Chronicles: interlude from "C"

The intervening months since I last took up this pen have been...unusual, to say the least. Departing the monastery and journeying on behalf of the Order as a senior initiate is not something that is supposed to occur. And yet, I was thrown (if that is the correct word) into a mission nonetheless, which took me far from here. This was a valuable lesson in itself: to not assume that the Order's rules are immutable, at least when comes a time of great need. It gave me the insight that one should follow the Order's purpose and craft rules to serve that purpose, rather than follow rules blindly. As a lesser initiate, it was the rules one was taught (and punished for breaking) that were central to life. I believe this is still a necessary process, but my eyes have been opened further as to how the world really works.

As to the mission, it was indeed fortunate that I was sent along, as the only member of the Order who understands the Draconic language. The mission leader afterwards praised my efforts, furthermore hinting that I might find antecedents of the situation contained within these Chronicles. I may say no more about what occurred, for that is a different story, but I am eager once again to take up this final exercise, to see what lessons it contains and how it sheds light on the Order's mission today.