The Westgate Campaign Chronicles - serial

[Carlo-One]

Rahnee rejoined Brok-Tul, Marik, and Aerikoth at the guest house. Jokull had been delayed for a short while on the way back from the Blue Banner, telling the others he had stopped by the Market to purchase supplies. Rahnee reviewed the meeting with the Seneschal for those who were not present, remarking that she suspected the Bleths had investigated her background beforehand, which might have implications for Marik and Aerikoth. Marik frowned and rubbed his chin, while for his part Aerikoth seemed unconcerned. Rahnee then brought up the murder of Sembian official Senthur Signe. Aerikoth, with a slight smirk, told the others there were several stories going around about the murder. One rumor was that Senthur had been bedding the wife of a senior Night Mask member. Aerikoth considered more intriguing the rumor that the Cormyrians had killed Senthur, as he was notoriously anti-Cormyr. Aerikoth noted, with Rahnee's affirmation, that his body had been found in the Harbor Loop, the same district in which Thalavar Captain Yar's body had been discovered.

Jokull, in response to a question from Brok-Tul, said that he knew no one from Cormyr in Westgate who would do such a thing, although the warrior admitted he actually knew few of his countrymen in the city. He also asserted that such an act of assassination would run against the core of Cormyrian morals and state policy. Brok-Tul was somewhat skeptical of traditional Cormyrian restraint, given all of the recent upheavals in that country. (I too would caution the reader on ascribing high moral values to anyone based solely on their geographic origin. --R). Aerikoth, smirking again, rhetorically posed the question as to why the Cormyrians would want to kill a Sembian dignitary. Jokull quickly responded that they wouldn't, prompting Aerikoth to ask who, then, would benefit the most from hostilities between Cormyrians and Sembians in Westgate.

At this point, a knock on the guest house door was heard and Janatha entered. The serving girl was stiff and appeared concerned, asking the group if they had heard about the murder of the Sembian representative. It turned out that a unit of the City Watch had arrived at the Gatereach Inn and asked to see the group for questioning related to the murder. They assured her they would go see the Watch and cooperate fully, and Janatha departed.

After walking into the back room of the Gatereach, the party saw Jandrico and Janatha talking with the Watch Commander, who had three guards along with him. Jandrico appeared his usual calm self, while Janatha looked visibly nervous. Introductions were made to Watch Commander Meynn, who politely questioned the group about their presence at the Quivering Thumb arena the previous night and what they had seen regarding Senthur Signe. Rahnee stated that she had not paid much attention to the Sembians, but she noted that Senthur had been making insulting comments of some sort. Brok-Tul provided some additional flavor, but also stated that he recalled nothing specific. Meynn turned to Aerikoth, mentioning that Aerikoth had been observed talking with the other Sembian accompanying Senthur that evening, Captain Gord. Aerikoth confirmed this, explaining that he had discussed Gord's experiences as a sea serpent hunter; Meynn commented that Gord was indeed known as a famous hunter.

Meynn followed up by querying if anyone knew when the Sembians had departed or if anyone suspicious had been observed hanging around the streets after the match. Aerikoth said that the Sembians had departed well before their group, and that Palla the Light had left shortly before they departed the arena. He also mentioned that Senthur had made several insulting remarks about Cormyr during the fights. (Very observant of the wizard. --C). Brok-Tul and the others affirmed that no one suspicious had been seen on the streets. Marik asked Meynn if there were any suspects. Meynn was noncommittal in response, but indicated there was a 1,000 gold bounty sponsored by the Sembian Representative Office for information leading to the capture of the responsible parties; if anyone obtained such information, they should approach the Watch. The Watch Commander finished by saying he was pleased with the party's cooperation. At the same time, he suggested that they not leave the city for the next few days. Leaving Meynn to finish his business with Jandrico, the group retired to the guest house for private conversation.

 

[Carlo-One]

After the group had assured themselves of their own innocence regarding Senthur's murder (A prudent precaution that shows they are not completely trusting of each other. --R), Rahnee, Jokull, and Marik headed for the Harbor Loop for some additional investigating of the area in which the murders of Captain Yar and Senthur Signe had occurred. Aerikoth retired to his room, concentrating on preparing himself for his upcoming mage test with House Bleth. Brok-Tul, for his part, was absorbed in a tinkering project.

In the Harbor Loop, Marik chatted up Fynn, the bartender at the Rosebud Outdoor Tavern. He told Marik that the chief Sembian representative to Westgate, Maurian Selkirk, was offering a 1,000 gold reward for information about the murder of Senthur Signe. Fynn also commented that Senthur was known for being an anti-Cormyr "prick." Some of the tavern's patrons also shared various rumors that were swirling around, prominent among them being that the Cormyrians had Senthur killed. (Even a relative recluse such as I should know that if tavern rumors say one thing, it is best to look for the truth somewhere else. --C)

While Rahnee, Jokull and Marik were exploring the streets by the House Ssemm docks, two Ssemm guards approached them, demanding to know their business. Although mollified by Marik's excuse of having dropped a fivestar coin into the sewer opening, the guards warned that strange events had been occurring nearby, notably the two murders in the past month. While exploring the sewers, the group noted the same dried-up old bloodstain previously linked with Captain Yar's murder, finding nothing else new besides rats.

After returning to the guest house, Rahnee drafted a note to be left for their House Thalavar contact, inquiring if any business had been done with the murdered Senthur. The three companions further discussed the predicament of investigating the Fire Knives and Jokull boldly stated he would be willing to draw them out, by exposing himself as a Cormyrian come to destroy them. The others agreed that would certainly draw attention to him. Exiting the guest house, the three made their way to the secret message drop without incident. Rahnee read a response and made a mark on a note from Thalavar that had been left for them, in addition to leaving her new inquiry.

 

[Carlo-One]

Tests
The group passed an uneventful night, awakening the morning of the 13th day of the 11th month, Uktar. This was the day Aerikoth was to submit himself to be tested by the House Bleth mage. While discussing the day's coming events after breakfast, during which Aerikoth displayed stoicism regarding his pending trial, he recommended that Jokull and Marik swing by the Black Eye tavern to see if Khair had any news to report. The wizard then rose calmly and departed for the Blue Banner. Jokull and Marik, joined by Brok-Tul, made their way to the Black Eye and met up with Khair. The sword-for-hire confirmed that Istvan Cormaeril, the dissolute young noble he had been tailing, had been warned off the Quivering Thumb arena the night of Senthur Signe's murder. Khair thought Istvan was a weak link in House Cormaeril. Brok-Tul asked Khair to meet them that night at the nearby docks, at highmoon, with any additional information Khair could provide on Istvan's movements.

The three returned to the Gatereach guest house, noting that Aerikoth had not yet returned from his test. Marik told the others that Istvan was the arrow pointing to House Cormaeril being in league with the Fire Knives, with him being barred from the arena so that he would be elsewhere when Senthur's murder occurred. The others agreed with Marik's point and began discussing how to kidnap Istvan and make him reveal his secrets. Marik departed after a few hours, stating he was going to look up some contacts.

By nightfall, neither Marik nor Aerikoth had returned, leaving Brok-Tul, Jokull, and Rahnee to contemplate their next steps. Jokull shared his limited knowledge of the Cormaeril leadership, to which he thought Istvan was related, although it was not clear how closely. Lord Kargerth Cormaeril was the current head of the House in Westgate; Jokull described him as young for the position, being in his 40s. Kargerth had taken charge of the House immediately after its forced exile from Cormyr and had a reputation for fair, if tough, business dealings. Lord Tagreth Cormaeril, Kargerth's uncle, was the oldest living Cormaeril noble. Tagreth's brother - Kargerth's father - had disappeared during the flight from Cormyr. (A notable point. Perhaps Kargerth - or even Tagreth? - had seen an opportunity to increase their influence in the House. Such disappaearances are rarely random. --C) Tagreth had a very low profile in Westgate and reportedly seldom left Cormaeril Castle.

As the night wore on and the appointment with Khair grew closer, the three decided to pick up some standard-looking leathers at Shalush Myrkeer's shop, in preparation for snatching Istvan. At the shop, they overheard the guards talking about investigating the murder of Senthur, with an eye toward earning the 1,000 gold reward offered by the Sembians; the guards planned to go to the Black Eye and discuss it further over drinks.

Brok-Tul and Jokull accompanied Rahnee back to the guest house, so she could stash her own distinctive leathers and put on a hood, making her hopefully unrecognizable. As the three re-entered the city via Mulsantir's Gate, however, the City Watch officers on duty stopped them. The Watch commented that seeing them for the third time that evening, after having changed clothes and added helmets, made them curious. Rahnee identified herself as the Lady Rahnee, indicating that the others were her retainers, and commented that the rain had soaked their other clothes. After answering questions about their lodging and receiving a warning from the Watch about recent murders, the group was allowed to proceed into the city.

Khair noticed them enter the Black Eye. Without overtly giving a sign that he recognized them, he walked out to a deserted spot close to the docks, and was joined in a few minutes by the three adventurers. Cloaked by night, Khair informed them that Istvan, a creature of habit, had gone to the Purple Lady in Mulsantir's Gate district. If Istvan's pattern held true, he would then indulge in some cheap whores afterwards, plucked from the street. Khair warned that Istvan usually traveled with two guards. Sometimes he bought whores for the guards as well, but it was not guaranteed. (Ah, the fickleness of young nobles. --R). Khair also commented that Istvan did not seem particularly concerned while on the streets, in spite of the recent murders, which the party thought was notable. Before walking silently off, Khair stated that what occurred with Istvan was not his concern, but that he would appreciate a token of gratitude, should they find success.

 

[Carlo-One]

Rahnee decided that she would pretend to be a streetwalker in order to entrap Istvan, passing her hood to Jokull for his disguise. Making their way to the Purple Lady, the group noticed that two professional-looking, if bored, Cormaeril guards were loitering outside the entrance. While debating whether or not to take out the guards, two prostitutes showed up and started complaining that Rahnee and the others were taking up their corner, one of them mentioning in passing that she expected "Isty" to be out soon. The two resisted leaving the corner, saying Isty paid well, but in the end Rahnee was able to pay them off and swapped outfits with one of the women. (The young Waterdhavian noblewoman, although lacking in modesty, certainly does not lack for boldness. --R)

Soon after, Istvan came out of the Purple Lady, inebriated and looking for some more fun, motioning his guards to accompany him. Brok-Tul and Jokull played the role of interested customers for Rahnee’s streetwalker, then allowed themselves to be run off by Istvan's guards. Wanting Rahnee (who was calling herself "Magda") for himself, Istvan gave his guards some coin and directed them to the other two prostitutes, who had taken up residence at an opposite street corner. Istvan and Rahnee then strolled off in the direction of Cormaeril Vale - shadowed at a distance by Brok-Tul and Jokull.

Rahnee and Istvan stopped behind a building outside West Gate and things had begun to get hot and heavy when Rahnee's two companions, hooded and helmeted, burst on the scene and assaulted Istvan. After a brief, savage fight, Istvan was left unconscious and bleeding on the ground. Brok-Tul revived him with a healing potion and began interrogating him - roughly - while Rahnee (as “Magda”) played the role of a helpless victim. Brok-Tul, with Jokull looming as a silent threat, demanded to know who Istvan gave his allegiance to, mentioning his knowledge that Istvan had been warned off at the Quivering Thumb. Istvan protested, saying he had indeed departed the area and, contrary to Brok-Tul’s subsequent assertions, hadn't talked at all about what had happened to the Sembian. Istvan said that he got "the message" and of course followed Lord Tagreth, but that he could only be pushed so far. Istvan agreed with Brok-Tul’s decision that "Magda" had to be killed for witnessing the scene, and the young nobleman staggered off with a sneer after quaffing a healing potion.

While departing the area, Brok-Tul smeared some blood on Rahnee, in order to be consistent with their chosen cover story of Rahnee having been mugged. The three adventurers made their way back to the guest house without further incident, Brok-Tul bopping Rahnee in the face once home in order to strengthen the evidence for their story. After hearing the blow and Rahnee's squeal, Aerikoth descended to the guest house common room, frowning and asking about the source of the noise. The others welcomed Aerikoth, observing that he had survived the Bleth mage test, and promised to explain things. Just then, Marik knocked on the outer door, which was stuck, and was let in. In response to a question from Brok-Tul, Aerikoth stated that after passing the test, he was, however, not a member of any guild or organization, other than the party. Brok-Tul, with commentary injected periodically from Rahnee and Jokull, then narrated what had happened with Istvan. Aerikoth commented that they should have questioned Istvan more closely. Brok-Tul countered by asserting that circumstances had prevented it. Aerikoth also said they should have killed Istvan, an opinion the others disagreed with. (I am unsure exactly what the encounter with Istvan proved. I am forced to agree that if he was to be interrogated in such a manner, more should have been uncovered in the process. At the same time, I am troubled by the brutality of this action and its logical consequences, as raised by the mage. Would I act similarly, if I felt the need was great? --C)

The wizard retired to his room while Rahnee, Jokull, and Marik decided to go to the Gatereach for a drink. Jandrico Swift served them personally, Janatha being gone for the night. Rahnee and the others conversed about the alleged attempted mugging of Rahnee, about which Jandrico expressed his concern. They agreed to take his advice and report it to the Watch the next day. Before going to bed, Marik promised to fill them in next morning on what he had been up to that night.

(I am forced to applaud the brilliance of the wizard's obfuscations and strategy of sharing only the absolute minimum about his activities with his companions. Essentially they are none the wiser as to what happened with House Bleth, except for the obvious fact that Aerikoth is alive and presumably passed whatever ordeal had been set before him. --R)

 

[Carlo-One]

Janatha arrived mid-morning at the guest house with a breakfast tray and was greeted by Brok-Tul, who then went upstairs to rouse Aerikoth. The half-orc discovered the mage, along with his excited-looking raven familiar Zeluth, reading a small note. Aerikoth explained that it appeared Jamal wanted to have a word with them; the note read "Rising Raven Annex, upstairs, sundown." Joining the others at breakfast, Aerikoth and Brok-Tul shared the news about Jamal. While eating, Marik apologized about missing the encounter with Istvan, saying he had been contacted by two of his sources with time-sensitive information. He said the source who claimed to have information on the Sembian murder was a bust, but that the other source had urgent information on the Sembian gem transaction. The buyer's name was Wale Thynn, an Archendale merchant staying at the Jolly Warrior along with two armed guards. (It occurs to me that perhaps Marik was employing some of his street smarts in deliberately avoiding participation in the assault on Istvan, while making further plans to heist the gem. --C)

Jandrico Swift knocked on the guest house door and let himself in. Brok-Tul met him and was asked if Aerikoth was available. Brok-Tul returned to the common room, sending Aerikoth out to meet Jandrico. Aerikoth then returned to the room and asked if the party planned on meeting Jamal that eve; everyone agreed on this. Rahnee, Jokull and Marik departed to report Rahnee’s alleged mugging to the City Watch, while Brok-Tul declared he was going to get some perfume for Jamal, asking Rahnee for some gold to make the purchase. Aerikoth accompanied the three for a time, then turned off south.

In the early afternoon, the company regrouped at the guest house. Aerikoth arrived last, wiping melted snow from his head. The three who had reported the mugging incident to the Watch were not impressed by the Watch's competence - although from their description of the Watch clerk's reaction to their story about the mugging, it seemed that the feeling was mutual. Amid some light talk, Rahnee asked Aerikoth if he had heard yet from Gondeth about the ancient book of necromantic magic, but Aerikoth shook his head, indicating that Gondeth had asked to be left alone for a tenday with his research.

Discussion turned to plans for the upcoming meeting with Jamal. Marik initially voted not to tell her anything, but Jokull protested that she belonged to an organization - the Harpers - that promoted good, so there was no reason to hide the truth from her. Rahnee observed that Jamal was not cooperative when she thought she was being "lead down the country lane." Aerikoth said he thought it would be best to see what Jamal had to say first, since she was the one who had requested the meeting. Rahnee finally threw up her hands and said she would leave it to the "slick-tongued devils" to carry the conversation, while she and Jokull propped up the wall trying to look tough. Aerikoth and then Jokull went up to their rooms, while the other three discussed the secret gem deal about which Marik had obtained information on. Marik indicated he had a possible buyer interested, if they could get their hands on the gem. They then also retired to their rooms for the remainder of the afternoon.

 

[Carlo-One]

At dusk, the party met in the common room. Brok-Tul showed the others the perfume bottle he had purchased for Jamal and gave another bottle to Rahnee as a gift. They then split up for the trip to the Rising Raven Annex, Aerikoth making his way directly and unerringly there, while Jokull trailed behind the remainder of the group, who followed an indirect route, to guard against potential watchers. The snowstorm outside continued, a fierce wind blowing against everyone's bodies. At the Annex, the party overheard some mercenaries complaining about the first snow of the season. Rahnee led the group upstairs to the waiting Jamal.

Jamal greeted the party, observing that she had not met Marik before and expressing surprise (mostly) and pleasure that Brok-Tul had brought her a bottle of "Divinity" perfume as a gift. Marik was introduced as a former "businessman" in the line of "protecting" Sembian nobles; Jamal commented that it must have been similar to Brok-Tul's former profession. She then got down to business, asking what the party had to tell her. Rahnee said curtly that Jamal had summoned them, prompting Jamal to turn to Aerikoth with a sly grin and ask if that was what he had told the rest. Aerikoth dismissed her statement and asked again what Jamal wished to know.

Jamal said she naturally wished to know a lot of things, beginning with why Gondeth had been instructed not to let her near their ancient magic tome. Aerikoth indicated that this was because it was their tome, a fact grumpily acknowledged by Jamal, who said she supposed she could hear about it once Gondeth had finished his research. Brok-Tul interrupted, impatient, and Aerikoth turned the topic of conversation to the murder of Senthur Signe. Jamal naturally had heard of the incident and the 1,000 gold reward offered by the Sembians. She commented that the murder did not seem to be the Night Masks' style. Aerikoth then raised the topic of Istvan Cormaeril, asking if Jamal knew of him. She did indeed, commenting that the "pervert" frequented the Purple Lady down the street from her house and had even propositioned her once. Aerikoth continued, informing her that Istvan had originally been at the Quivering Thumb the night of the murder and had been persuaded not to attend the arena matches. The wizard then asked Jamal what she thought of this.

Brok-Tul at this point broke in, saying that while getting the perfume, he had overheard Istvan being muscled by some toughs; Istvan was asked who really ruled his house, his answer being Tagreth. Jamal was surprised to hear this, stating that Tagreth was known as a recluse. She had heard nothing of any Cormaeril involvement in Senthur's murder and was skeptical that it had been done in order to intentionally pin it on Kargerth Cormaeril, which was Brok-Tul's idea. She thought that if this were the case, information would have come to light by now. She commented that the murder had been very professional and no evidence had been left, besides the bloody knife trail under Senthur's chin and the body lying between the Quivering Thumb and the Sembian office. However, she agreed that the murder must have been done to send a strong - perhaps final - message. Marik raised the probability of a connection between Senthur's murder and that of Captain Yar. He pointed out that both were professional jobs, with little evidence, and done in the same area.

Jamal promised to make inquiries among her sources about the Cormaerils, but continued to be skeptical that the murders were the work of the Masks. She mused that if the Cormaerils were involved, it might have something to do with the elections for Croamarkh due to take place in three months. She said that House Cormaeril, like most of the other noble Houses, wanted to put someone forward in the election. However, she couldn't see Tagreth being elected, or wanting the position of titular head of the Cormaerils, which she said he had declined when the family arrived in Westgate. Shifting gears, Jamal stated that she had continued her investigations into necromantic activity in Westgate, discovering that people were now whispering of vampires loose in the streets of the city. Brok-Tul thought it must be related to his information that intelligent undead had assumed control of the Night Masks, speculating that there was now a power struggle between them and a new group that had tried to fill the original vacuum left by the destruction of the old Night Mask organization.

Brok-Tul then asked Marik to reveal his arm, tattooed with the Fire Knife symbol. Jamal recognized it and commented that it was the same symbol on the card left with Captain Yar's bodies, then seemed at a loss for further words. Recovering, after some smirks from Brok-Tul and Marik, she said that a Fire Knife presence might help explain things, but that the Masks were strong - stronger still if Brok-Tul was right about their leadership - and she couldn't see why the Knives would be so blatant as to leave a calling card. Brok-Tul indicated he might be able to get proof about the Masks, if he could get into the Temple of Mask, but the password had changed and he ran the risk of being "converted" to undead if he came in off the street. (The crux of the matter is once again revealed! The half-orc bumbles about on occasion, but his warnings could not be more clear as to the nature of the real threat to Westgate. --R)

Mentioning she only had the Annex meeting room for a short time more, Jamal arranged to meet with the party in four days' time at Gondeth's, at dusk, in order to hear the results of Gondeth's research. She also remembered she had forgotten to mention a curious fact about Baron Pahar, for whom some of them had worked previously. She stated that House Thalavar was collecting evil magic artifacts to be passed on to the Baron, and would pay if the party could bring any to them. After eyebrows were raised, Jamal explained that she didn't know why this was being done, the Thalavars not being willing to give a reason.

As the party prepared to depart, Jokull, who had remained silent for nearly the entire time, asked Jamal if he could speak with her alone. Surprised, Jamal agreed, and the others left, Marik warning Jamal to keep his secret. Downstairs, Aerikoth set himself close to the fire with a warm drink, seemingly unconcerned about the passage of time, as the first three departed the inn, followed several minutes later by Jokull. (The Cormyrian warrior is at least somewhat discreet with his own agenda, but bold action appears to be his preference, rather than staying completely in the shadows. --C)

 

[Carlo-One]

Endgame
The four companions, after returning to the guest house, agreed on separate courses of action. Rahnee and Jokull would leave a secret message for the Thalavars requesting a meeting, as Rahnee felt it was time to inform Thalavar Steward Iono of their discoveries. Meanwhile, Brok-Tul and Marik would go to the Black Eye and the Rotten Root, looking to spread rumors about the Fire Knives in the hopes of shaking free more information.

At the Black Eye, Brok-Tul and Marik encountered Khair, who seemed uninterested in Marik's tale of an unnamed Purple Dragon in Westgate seeking to track down a former Fire Knife operative as part of a personal vendetta. (This must be a version of the story Jokull had wished to spread about himself. –C). Brok-Tul whispered that it could mean the Knives were making a big move in the city. Khair stated that he was a simple sellsword, uninterested in great affairs as long as he was paid. Khair then commented that he heard Istvan Cormaeril had not been seen since the previous night, inquiring perhaps if his bonus was therefore in order. Marik in response passed Khair a small sum of gold. Brok-Tul then asked Khair if he was interested in obtaining the Night Mask temple password, in return for further gold. Khair declined, showing no interest in meddling with the Masks, and departed. The two also found relatively little interest in their rumors from Mard, the Rotten Root bartender and a contact of Marik. Mard instead pressed them on the matter of the Sembian gem; Mard thought the transaction would happen in the next tenday.

Meanwhile, Rahnee and Jokull had stopped at the Spitting Cockatrice to see if they could pick up any information before heading to the secret message site. Some talk was heard about the Sembian 1,000 gold reward for information about Senthur Signe's murder, still unclaimed. Rahnee, her back covered by a watchful Jokull, dropped off a message requesting a meeting, and retrieved a note answering Rahnee's previous missive. It indicated - without naming names - that the Thalavars had done no business with Senthur and requested the party investigate the murder, as it could be related to their task of ferreting out the Fire Knives. Reassembling in the guest house, Aerikoth having returned in the meantime, the adventurers compared notes on the night's endeavors.

The next morning, day 15 of Uktar, Janatha brought a lighter breakfast tray than usual, explaining that Jokull and Marik had risen early and taken their breakfast in the common room before heading out on business. After Janatha had departed, having been asked by Brok-Tul to bring more washing supplies, and Aerikoth had arrived in the guest house common room, Brok-Tul speculated that Janatha might be a slave or otherwise controlled by Jandrico Swift, saying that she appeared terrified of him.

Rahnee was more curious about Baron Pahar's odd need for evil magical artifacts, prompting Brok-Tul to comment that he still believed it had something to do with Jamorin's book. Janatha, towels and soap in hand, re-entered the guest house with the kind assistance of Jokull, who had just returned from his errand. Brok-Tul attempted to draw Janatha out about conditions at the Gatereach, mentioning a "friend" who wanted to work at the inn and querying about the pay, but Janatha told him he would have to talk to Jandrico about such things. After she left, Brok- Tul indicated to Rahnee he was sympathetic to Janatha, seeing her being taken advantage of. Jokull, however, stated that he had not seen any evidence of her maltreatment by Jandrico. (This speculation about Janatha appears to have been one of the half-orc’s random thoughts that in fact had little to do with reality, as will be seen later. –R)

 

[Carlo-One]

Conversation turned back toward analysis and speculation regarding House Cormaeril and House Bleth and the circumstances surrounding the murders of Captain Yar and Senthur Signe. Aerikoth suggested the possibility of approaching the Watch with what they knew about Istvan's warning the night of Senthur's murder, terming it an option to put pressure on the Cormaerils. Brok-Tul was doubtful, believing that the warning could rebound against the party. Rahnee thought it could be done, if they claimed they were simply trying to get the 1,000 gold reward for information on the Sembian's death and had done some investigating. However, Rahnee thought it best to see if there was any word from the Thalavar agent prior to going to the Watch. Aerikoth declined to go with the others to the secret message site in the stormy, cold weather, believing it unlikely the Thalavars would be so efficient as to already have responded.

Jokull, after accompanying Rahnee and Brok-Tul to the message site, returned to the guest house and informed Aerikoth that there in fact had been a message, asking to meet at the Old Beard inn in the East Gate district. Aerikoth shortly afterward departed, leaving Jokull resting in his room. Meanwhile, Brok-Tul and Rahnee pursued their own business in the city, before returning to the guest house.

Marik walked in shortly before sundown, shrugging off rain from his cloak and grinning about how much fun he had had that afternoon. He was informed by Rahnee that he would have to go back out again, to accompany the others to the Old Beard. The note from the Thalavar agent had said to "listen for the shadows," which Rahnee interpreted as a reference to the group's secret name used with Iono, "Helm's Shadows." Brok-Tul again brought up the temple of Mask, saying he believed that once they could somehow get in there and figure out what was going on, they could solve half of their troubles.

On edge with anticipation, the party - minus Aerikoth - made their way across the city to the Old Beard. On the way, they speculated about Baron Pahar's strange need for evil magical objects and, as often occurred during Rahnee's conversations, there was a diversion into how she treated her numerous brothers. Marik and Jokull went through the door of the tavern first, with Rahnee and Brok-Tul entering shortly afterward and sitting at a different table. Several mercenaries and sailors were present, some of whom were talking about how best to claim the large reward offered by the Sembians. The sailors - admittedly, rather drunk - thought that the murderer likely would have fled by ship and planned to try and figure out which captain had taken him aboard.

 

[Carlo-One]

As Brok-Tul and Rahnee slipped out of the common room to explore the rest of the tavern, a man who had been talking with the sailors detached himself and trailed behind them. Once they were alone, hushed words referring to "Helm's shadow" were exchanged and the man - who introduced himself as Garis, a Thalavar agent - invited Rahnee and Brok-Tul into his private room. After some tense moments, Rahnee agreed to inform Garis of what they had discovered about Istvan Cormaeril and the night of the Sembian's murder.

Garis showed surprise at House Cormaeril being implicated, taking time to ponder the significance of the information. He said that he had been able to identify those responsible for Captain Yar's death, but admitted he had been puzzled by what happened to Senthur Signe; Garis believed that the party likely had the missing piece of the puzzle. Marik and Jokull came by the room to check on Brok-Tul and Rahnee, receiving a sign from Brok-Tul that the situation was under control. Garis told them he would set up a meeting at Castle Thalavar with Thalavar Steward Iono in two days, asking the group to come in the afternoon and pretend they were delivering magic items for Pahar, in order to provide a cover for their presence at the castle. Garis could shed no additional light on why Pahar in fact wanted evil magical artifacts, nor what would be done with them. (The Baron, it seems, is reticent to share this information even with close allies. Or perhaps Garis does not see it as his place to divulge it, if it is indeed known to House Thalavar. What appears as a minor mystery now will eventually play a critical role in the struggle against the abomination. --R). Garis said he knew nothing more of events at the Temple of Mask, when Brok-Tul asked, advising him to raise it with the Steward. Garis then left, saying he would see them in two days.

The party then had great fun playing the role of increasingly drunk tavern patrons, in order to provide a cover for their activities at the Old Beard. After finishing their evening at the tavern and while heading for home, a drunk accosted Jokull, asking him if he had anything to do with the Sembian's murder, since Jokull looked like he was from Cormyr. Jokull manfully held his silence and the drunk was soon distracted by a nearby prostitute. Jokull expressed his disdain for the man after he moved away.

Once they reached the guest house Rahnee and Brok-Tul explained in detail what had happened in the meeting with Garis. Rahnee said she expected Istvan, who had not been seen since his "interview" with Brok-Tul and Jokull, to turn up dead. She also expected that an attempt against Garis might be made, and - most importantly - that the group would be in similar danger in the two days before the meeting with Iono. Several possible courses of action were debated. The party ended up deciding to keep a round-the-clock watch that night at the guest house, then would hide out in the abandoned smuggler's cave under the well outside West Gate the following day. (This seems somewhat paranoid, as there is no evidence presented here that "Helm's Shadows" are known to the murderers. No doubt the pressures and dangers involved in the investigation have taken their toll on the group over time, so their actions are nevertheless understandable. I shall remember this, should I find myself in a similar situation. --C)

The night of the 15th day of Uktar passed slowly. Rahnee and Jokull took first watch, while Brok-Tul removed all of his stored equipment from the hallway armoire. Brok-Tul retired to his bedroom, while Marik remained, clearly on edge and claiming that he kept hearing noises. The three in the hallway exchanged speculation on how an enemy could attack: using fire? Posing as the City Watch? Coming through an upstairs window? They decided to move the hallway armoire to block the stairs leading up and sleep on the first floor, for better safety. Marik went upstairs and retrieved some extra bedding, then watched Rahnee and Jokull manhandle the armoire up the first flight of stairs, blocking the stairway door. Marik then joined Brok-Tul in the main bedroom.

Four hours passed and Rahnee went to wake up Marik and Brok-Tul, apparently interrupting a dream Marik was having about Lady Thalavar bringing him ale. Rahnee gratefully went to bed, while Jokull preferred to doze in the hallway, sword at the ready. After snuffing most of the torches to embers, Brok-Tul sat down with Marik and bantered in low tones about the Harpers, which produced some laughter, and discussed their tactical situation. Rahnee rose early, spent some time brushing her hair, then joined the others, waiting for dawn.

 

[Carlo-One]

In the early morning, Janatha arrived at the guest house with a breakfast tray and an extra pot of tea. Jandrico had thought they would need it, since the City Watch had arrived and wanted to speak with them. A nervous Janatha explained that the Watch had arrived an hour previously, but Jandrico insisted on his guests having a decent breakfast before being disturbed. Janatha knew nothing more, other than having overheard one of the Watch mention "the Sembian," and departed with a curtsey. Rahnee speculated about the possible threat to the party from someone impersonating the Watch, while pouring the tea into a potted plant – she clearly being suspicious of everything, at this point. The party secreted some of the food on their persons, for future use, and warily exited the guest house.

Outside, they found a squad of the Watch grumbling at having to be out in the rain. The party was informed that Commander Meynn was inside and wanted to speak with them; they went into the Gatereach and found him and several other Watch members with Jandrico Swift. After a series of somewhat forced pleasantries, Meynn asked Rahnee if they could meet privately in the guest house. Rahnee acquiesced, and Meynn and two of his Watch guards entered, Meynn leaving them in the hallway while he sat down in the meeting area with the group. Meynn commented first on Aerikoth's absence, which Brok- Tul blamed on him having to complete some sort of mage test in town. Rahnee commented that she thought Aerikoth actually had a woman on the side, which produced roars of laughter from Brok-Tul and wry comments from Marik, while leaving Meynn puzzled at the reaction.

Meynn then got down to business, stating that the Watch had discovered another Sembian's body, found two days previously in an alley near the Black Boot in the River Gate district. Marik commented that he knew the place - horrible ale, worse clientele. Meynn commented that the Sembian appeared to be in the "thug" profession and that apparently he had also had a partner, who was missing. Meynn brusquely asked the party if they knew anything about the murder, which produced protestations of their innocence. Brok-Tul pointed out that Cormyrians, for example Jokull, had been getting unfair suspicions pointed their way, citing the incident the previous night with the drunk. Meynn said he had little faith in views held by drunken rabble, but did find it interesting that the party included a Cormyrian and that Aerikoth had been observed dealing with the Sembians at the Quivering Thumb the night of Senthur Signe's murder.

Rahnee countered by saying that they had been planning to go to the Watch that day to share the results of some investigations of theirs, prompted by the 1,000 gold reward. A comment from Marik prompted Meynn to note that Marik had a Cormyrian accent, and Meynn was further intrigued by Marik's admission that he had previously done business in Sembia. Rahnee and Meynn bantered a bit about Rahnee's reasons for being in Westgate, provoking an amused smile from the Watch commander. Observing that the group had already breakfasted, he politely requested that they vacate the guest house for the remainder of the day, while his men turned the place inside out. Some minor protestations followed and Rahnee made a point of telling Meynn that her silk dresses should not be damaged. As she was leaving, Rahnee told Meynn that Istvan Cormaeril had been warned away from the Quivering Thumb the night of the Sembian's death, breezily ignoring Meynn's half-veiled threat of hauling her off to the Tower for more questioning.