Vulcuran pondering his meeting with this Cassandra woman, not only the information she unveiled but the strong connection he seems to have with her
Vulcuran: Walk back out to Joshua.
DMaster: He has a shit eating grin on his face and lifts his eyebrow. The smell was a bit much, charred wood and the lack of air down in there.
JOSH: A friend of yours?
Vulcuran: Scoff.
VUL: Oh, yeah. Besties. So whats the prognosis on the place?
DMaster: Joshua is wiping off his sleeves.
JOSH: Fire did a number on it. The outside walls seem to be in decent shape from my preliminary look, but considering other businesses got some of the fire, it tells me it burned through this building to get to it.
Vulcuran: Nod my head, thinking. Lower price perhaps?
VUL: If I was to buy it, suggestions?
DMaster: A smile comes to his face.
JOSH: Knock it down, build again. If it is just going to be some fly by night, then maybe not. But long term, fire, water damage never holds up for too long.
Vulcuran: Nod head again.
VUL: It was roughly 950 before the fire… how much you think it’s worth now?
DMaster: He rubs his chin, looks it over again.
JOSH: If I had to put a price on it, 400 and some change. Good location, but way too much work to put into it. I would estimate 300-350 gold to get it up and running, another 100 if you wanted it to look good.
Pats your shoulder.
JOSH: That’s a lot of gold son, could you afford that?
Vulcuran: Chuckle and give him a look like, yeah, I could afford 20 places like that. Nod my head and smile.
VUL: Thank you my friend. Appreciate it.
DMaster: You two say your goodbyes and you head back to the Castle. The guard peels off when you hit the inner gates. A beautiful day some puffy clouds, blue sky and a light breeze, if not a bit chilly. The streets are pretty active, a typical Mondalay
Vulcuran: Head to the throne room, finish out my court sessions.
DMaster: Rolled a 19. It went well and fast (that’s what she said). People dispersing, Vatikus is finishing up things with you. You make your final signature, and he nods to you.
VAT: That was really good. It looks like you are getting back into the swing of things.
Vulcuran: Nod at him and smile,
VUL: You can say that. Though, I have only been doing this for a short time now.
Head out, look for the King.
DMaster: You wander the Castle a little, and find him out back at the edge of the Gardens speaking with the prisoners. Though they are not prisoners anymore really. A large group of women, looking to the charismatic King. They are standing in the sunlight enjoying the weather.
JER: Everything seems to be in place now, do you have any questions?
They all stop and look your way as you walk out. The King glances back.
Vulcuran: Once I realize that, I stop. Probably not the time. Turn and head back.
DMaster: JER: Vulcuran! Please come, come. I wasn’t sure you were going to be available with your court today.
He is waving you over.
Vulcuran: Sigh, and head over to the King, giving him a bow.
VUL: M’Lord.
DMaster: All eyes are on you, many won’t make direct eye contact. The ordeal that they went through a few weeks back is finally setting in. Some murmurs and the like. The King looks to you, then the group and furries his brow.
JER: Tomorrow will be their first day with the new assignments. Half will go to the City Hall working in records and janitorial, others will go to our textile shop down the way.
Vulcuran: Raise an eyebrow.
VUL: Sire, if I may?
Beckon him to move away.
DMaster: Glancing at you, then nods to the women as to say, stay put. He follows you over.
Vulcuran: VUL: This is all well and good, but I think we are missing a few things.
DMaster: King gives you a weird look.
JER: Such as?
Vulcuran: VUL: I was at the cities textile shop not long ago and there was not a lot of room. It is also side by side with the forges. Not sure 8-10 women will have a place in there. The City Hall, same thing? Where are they going to work?
DMaster: The King groans a bit and sighs.
JER: Dammit, you were supposed to get that worked out.
Vulcuran: Give him a look, wider eyes.
VUL: I was? When was this?
DMaster: The King looks down and shakes his head. Takes a minute to think.
JER: Didn’t we talk about this?
Vulcuran: Shake head.
VUL: Sorry M’Lord. We kicked around thoughts and came up with the idea, but not much after that.
DMaster: He sighs real loud. Puts his hands behind his back and stands right next to you.
JER: This Kingdom is getting too damn big, and it is going to grow again in the next year with Del Rosa joining. With all the commotion with Nanny, and the duo… this must of fell through the cracks.
Vulcuran: Pat him on the shoulder.
VUL: I know. But, can they wait another day?
DMaster: The King looks up
JER: Huh?
Vulcuran: VUL: Just give me some time and we can make this work. It could be makeshift for a little bit, but if everything smooths out, we can expand. I mean, apparently we will have to, right?
Give him a warm smile.
DMaster: He nods and smirks. Gives you a longer look than he should.
JER: Think we can find a few more of “you” to help out around here?
Vulcuran: Shake head.
VUL: Not sure you could handle that, Jer.
DMaster: The King chuckles a bit.
JER: Aye
Vulcuran: VUL: Later today we need to have a conversation, I got some intel I want to share.
DMaster: Gives you a short curious look and nods his head.
JER: Sounds good. By the way, where did you trail off to? I imagine you conveniently forgot to take a guard with you huh?
Vulcuran: Smiling wide, look innocent and shrug my shoulders. Then nod head to take my leave.
DMaster: JER: Never alone, got it?
He heads back to the women, you can hear him starting to talk.
Vulcuran: I will go to the textile shop and then city hall.
DMaster: DM Condensing: The rest of the afternoon is spent talking with the respective managers of the shop and city hall working out a quick plan to fit in the women. They were happy, though just like you, were worried as to where they could work. You head back to the Castle.
Vulcuran: Head in and go to the Dining hall, hopefully not too late.
DMaster: It is around 6:00PM and you walk in. Still looks nice, but there is some massive construction farther out in the room. It has multiple draped clothes and such keeping the weather out. You remember approving a construction of a larger more elaborate dining area, a ball room of sorts so you can host the gala events in the castle. You are running out of room at the play-house. It looks like people started eating, so you sit down, get served and eat. You exchange glances with the King, letting him know everything is set with the women. Some idle chit chat between the royal group. Everyone is finishing up.
Vulcuran: Head over to the King.
VUL: M’lord, can I speak with you for a moment.
DMaster: He glances up and sighs, pauses a moment
JER: Can it wait until tomorrow?
Vulcuran: Shake head.
VUL: No, sorry. I don’t want to sit on this too long.
DMaster: He stands up puts his arm around your shoulder.
JER: Well then, lets go talk shall we?
You both head over and through some construction where the dining room is getting expanded. It gets chillier as you walk farther through. Dust, replaced walls, construction equipment everywhere.
Vulcuran: VUL: They are making good progress here I see.
DMaster: King nods his head.
JER: Would be further along if it not for the weather lately. Anyways, I am sure you didn’t corral me to talk about construction.
Vulcuran: Give him a look in his eye.
VUL: I have heard on good authority that there might be some spies in the city. A group of people hunkered down somewhere that is keeping on eye on us, for…
Shift a bit, furry my brow
VUL: The Warlord.
DMaster: Jeramiah’s look went from curiosity to befuddlement.
JER: Horse shit. No Orc Warlord could pull that off. They don’t think like that, you remember the Orc War, and…
Vulcuran: Wait a second, look back to him.
VUL: It is not an “orc” Warlord anymore, it is a… human.
DMaster: He pulls back a bit, eyes widening, then shaking his head.
JER: I don’t know where you are pulling this story from but…
Vulcuran: Shrug shoulders.
VUL: I know, I kind of had the same initial reaction. But as I thought about it more, what if this is true? We just haven’t got intel on this yet. Maybe this is the reason why we haven’t heard of the “warlord” doing anything the past 3-4 weeks.
DMaster: Now giving you an unsure look, the King purses his mouth
JER: Where did you get this information, and for Animaxes sake if you tell me that stexx rubbs guy or whatever the flip you call him…
Vulcuran: Chuckle a little, then sink my shoulders
VUL: You sure you want to know?
DMaster: He leans his head back and sighs.
JER: Goddammit Vulc. I am going to regret this ain’t I?
Vulcuran: VUL: Cassandra. She stopped by the merchant building that burnt down. Told me that the Warlord was over thrown and that all major cities has a “sect” in them. Spying and relaying information.
DMaster: Now the Kings eyes turned to slits, a bit of anger welling up.
JER: You. You told me they were gone. Left the City, no where to be found. Now they are just showing up randomly to tell you important realm altering information!?
Staring at you, face turning flush. Then he eyes get a bit bigger and steps back.
Vulcuran: Give him a look.
VUL: M’Lord?
DMaster: JER: Cassandra, Cassandra.
He slowly looks into your eyes.
JER: You have to be fucking kidding me.
Vulcuran: Frown and look down. Sigh.
VUL: Yeah, they were at the ball.
DMaster: JER: They?!? Both?!
He yells making it echo, and the few remaining people in the room being redone, look over, wide eyes. He steps away throwing his hands in the air.
JER: This gets better and better. You hanging out with the now? Tipping a few? Exchanging war stories? Sleeping in your room?
Vulcuran: Wait for him to calm down. Thinking, yet again, here we go. Getting shit for them again.
DMaster: He is looking at you from the corner of his eye.
JER: I am not sure why you didn’t try and catch them. Unless…
Vulcuran: Give him a fierce look.
VUL: Jerry. Really? You. Told me to put it away for the day, it was an “order.”
DMaster: He scoffs a little shaking his head.
JER: So this is on me?
Vulcuran: Shake head.
VUL: No. Carol also said, let it go and…
DMaster: JER: Carol knew too?!
Giving you wide eyes.
Vulcuran: VUL: I rarely ask you to calm down, but I am asking you to now. Carol only knew something was going down and she said I should shelf the shop talk. And Britney.
Wide eyes and wave my hands around.
VUL: Seriously, that woman scares me. If I would of messed up the ball, and anything with Thorin.
Shake my head and shudder.
VUL: I might not be standing here today.
DMaster: The King is breathing a bit easier now, face starting to get back to the normal color but you can tell he is still a bit unnerved.
JER: I don’t know what to say about this. So, I am going to let you finish.
Vulcuran: VUL: I know, M’lord…
DMaster: Getting interrupted.
JER: Vulc, no M’lord bullshit right now. Talk to me. What the hell is going on, seriously.
Staring at you.
Vulcuran: Look down a moment, sigh.
VUL: I went looking at the building that burnt down. Had Josh swing by to look too. Being 100% transparent, I am looking to buy it. Just wanted to see what would be involved.
DMaster: Jerry gives you a tilt of the head at the purchase comment.
Vulcuran: VUL: She just showed up. I asked her why she wasn’t out of the city, and she told me she had some intel to relay. After a few barbs back and forth, she told me that information. Then she disappeared again.
DMaster: The King lets out a forced chuckle.
JER: Figures. Not surprised you let her. You have a soft spot for this Cassandra, apparently.
Vulcuran: Let my shoulders down again.
VUL: apparently.
DMaster: JER: How much do you put into this? Are they scheming to gain advantage, or throwing us off our game, or what?
Vulcuran: Shake head.
VUL: It is why I took a bit longer to tell you. I have been running it over in my mind, took some time to look over reports of late, about the Warlord. I don’t see any advantage for them telling us. Other than just giving us a heads up.
Fidget a bit, face turning flush I am sure.
DMaster: The King grabs your shoulders and looks you dead in the eye.
JER: I can’t believe I am even asking this, but do you trust this Cassandra?
Vulcuran: Nod head.
VUL: Yes, Jerry. I do. She was being sincere, even took down her hood for a short time. Apart from their “assignment” they do not seem like they would put us in danger for no reason, or feed us false info. Even if it is, it won’t hurt to check it out and be careful.
DMaster: Another chuckle from the King.
JER: You and women don’t rightly mix do they. But, you are right, I guess it won’t hurt too much to put out feelers…
Vulcuran: Shake head.
VUL: I want to do some poking around before you do that. If we alert this “sect” that we are looking for them, they might go further underground or leave all together.
DMaster: JER: Not alone my Duke, not alone. Do you hear me? I also don’t want to have to track you down with a guard either.
Wide eyes looking you down.
Vulcuran: Smile and nod my head.
VUL: Of course. I think my first visit will be ol’ rexxy. He said a few things in passing that made me realize he might know something more.
DMaster: He scolds you a bit more, but has calmed down for the most part. The evening goes on, you read a book in the kitchen area, nibbling on some fruits. Then make it to your room and go to sleep.
TUSKALAY (Tuesday) 7:00 AM
DMaster: The crier walks past.
CRY: Warmer today, looks to be nice early on but clouds are on the horizon. It is 7:00 AM, get up, get at them!
Vulcuran: Get up and do my normal morning routine. Write a note to Thorin to meet me at the inner gate entrance at 1:00 PM. Put it in my pocket and go get breakfast.
DMaster: The King is eating his and glances up. Waves you over.
JER: Get your breakfast, sit, I want to talk.
Vulcuran: Sigh a bit, get my food, drink and head back. Sit, hoping this has nothing to do with Cassie.
DMaster: It is some sort of omelets that smell heavenly.
Vulcuran: Start eating.
VUL: You wanted to talk, M’Lord?
DMaster: He nods his head, gulping down some food, washing it down with some tea.
JER: I have known for some time now that you have been getting torn in all different directions, we have you doing too much. Taking the lead on important City and Realm things and that leaves a lot of the secondary chores to chance. No fault of your own, but communications and execution seems to fall through the cracks at times. Maybe all this extra work is hurting your… umm… decision making.
Wipes his mouth takes another bite.
Vulcuran: Nod my head, keep eating. Grunt a little.
DMaster: JER: We meant to talk to you about it yesterday, in the council meeting but got sidetracked. Go figure.
Snorts a little and continues.
JER: We need for you to focus your energies more on say 10 things rather than 25.
Giving you a long stare.
Vulcuran: Look at him, smile.
VUL: Understood. Whatever you need of me.
DMaster: The King puts his fork down loudly, lets out a big sigh and gives you a half scolding look.
Vulcuran: Stop eating. Wipe my mouth and look to him.
VUL: M’Lord?
DMaster: JER: Vulcuran. I know this. Our royal court knows this, hell I think people in Iraxacan knows of your loyalty and duty to this realm is unwavering.
Scoffs again, looking at the table in thought.
JER: Question is, what do you want to do. Seriously, its been a few decades of balls to the wall for this Kingdom. We can find capable people to help out, it might take a few more people to fill in the work you do, it is a lot, but I want to know what “you” want.
Nodding a bit towards you.
Vulcuran: Smirk a bit.
VUL: Move to Summer Isles. Meet a beautiful blonde woman and fall in love with her over and over again…
let out a little chuckle remembering the encounter in the warehouse last week.
DMaster: The King scoffs then chuckles.
JER: Don’t we all, don’t we all.
Gives you a serious look.
JER: Blonde huh? Didn’t pin you for a blonde type, but hey, I mean Meadow is almost blonde, I guess.
Vulcuran: Nod head and smile a bit, start eating again.
DMaster: JER: Vulc, I need you to think about this. Next meeting we will talk in length about it, ok?
Vulcuran: Look up, nod my head.
VUL: Yes. I will.
DMaster: The two of you finish eating.
Vulcuran: Walk to the throne room, knowing I have the dispute court to do. Chuckle a bit. Think this will be the first thing I will get rid of, the damn court hearings.
DMaster: Vatikus is there, talking with a few people, the entrance is half filled with people holding boxes, papers, scrolls, some arguing. Your scribe walks over to you
VAT: M’Lord? We ready for today?
Vulcuran: Nod head.
VUL: Still only have 5 hearings today?
DMaster: He frowns.
VAT: Six. I think we can get them done before lunch.
Vulcuran: Nod head.
VUL: Lets make it so. I don’t want to be caught up in this nonsense for too long.
Grab a lower level guard. hand him my note for Thorin
VUL: Find Thorin, hand this to him.
DMaster: The guard nods, grabs the note and walks out of the Castle.
Vulcuran: Head in and start the court hearings.
DMaster: DM: Rolled a 20. It went perfect. All the disputes were quickly settled and none of them were forwarded to a different time. It was amazing. Vatikus, after the door closes on the final one, looks over to you smiling.
VAT: Wow. I think I need to pinch myself, am I dreaming?
Vulcuran: Let out a laugh.
VUL: You are not kidding, that went… too well.
look around nervously.
DMaster: It is about 11:30AM and the rest of the day is yours.
Vulcuran: Gear up in Duke attire and head out of the Castle. Head towards Joshua’s home.
DMaster: You walk the City, and it is a great day to do so. The eastern horizon looks a little uncertain, but the rest is blue skies, a light warm breeze and the smell of spring in the air. People bow as you walk by.
Vulcuran: Nod to them and smile. When I get to the inner gate, look for a guard. The inner gate has much more capable guards than other places, so I will stop there.
DMaster: There is one in the guard house, looks to be a woman, a bit shorter, but well built. You can see two of them walking the perimeter of the inner wall. A 4 star is talking with a woman who is apparently lost.
Vulcuran: Wait for the 4 star to get back.
DMaster: He nods to the woman who seems happy to now know her way. He sees you with a bit of wide eyes.
GUARD: Oh, M’Lord, I am sorry to keep you waiting.
Vulcuran: Shake head.
VUL: No, no. Our citizens are very important.
Give him a look.
VUL: I need a guard to accompany me for a short walk into The Vines, if you have anyone.
DMaster: He nods his head, taps the female guard on the shoulder who is there, she looks over and smiles.
GUARD: Accompany the Duke to the Vines area.
She nods her head and comes out of the guard house. She looks to be late 20’s and a bit shorter, around 5’4″ but seems to be built pretty good. Dirty blonde hair with lighter yellowish green eyes. In a bit more advanced Camerondale armor, sword and shield on her back. She bows a bit, and you two start walking.
Vulcuran: VUL: 3-Star, what is your name if I may ask?
DMaster: She looks up to you while you are walking, she seems to be walking a bit faster, a 5’4″ frame compared to a 6’4″ frame, she has to take an extra step.
JOV: Jovie, M’Lord.
Vulcuran: Smile and slow down a bit walking.
VUL: Well, I will try and slow the pace a bit, Jovie.
DMaster: Along side of you, she smirks.
JOV: Tis’ ok M’Lord. We can go at your pace.
You two head down the main road, after about 10 minutes you turn to the right into the center portion of the city.
JOV: May I ask where we are going?
Vulcuran: Nod head.
VUL: The Vines, to meet up with an old friend for some information I need.
DMaster: She nods, mumbles.
JOV: Vines, 14 square blocks, higher walls, upper middle class…
Vulcuran: VUL: I’m sorry what now?
DMaster: Her eyes bulge for a second, she shakes her head.
JOV: Oh nothing M’lord.
Even in spring, there are vines starting to show, growing up the walls and buildings giving it a unique look. This is where Joshua lives, the area called “The Vines.” You come up to his brownstone.
Vulcuran: VUL: You can wait here.
Telling Jovie that, walk to the door, knock on it.
DMaster: Within a minute, Joshua opens the door.
JOSH: Vulc, my boy!! Couldn’t get enough of me before?
He pulls you in and gives you a hug, you give him one back.
Vulcuran: VUL: It was a beautiful day out, and I decided to take a walk.
DMaster: He smiles glances past you and sees the guard, looking around.
JOSH: Under security? What did you do…
Gives you a playful look.
Vulcuran: Laugh.
VUL: No just can’t go off alone anymore, Kings orders.
DMaster: He gives you a concerned look.
JOSH: What can I do you for?
He beckons you in.
Vulcuran: Turn back.
VUL: I will be just a minute Jovie.
DMaster: She smiles and nods. You walk into his home and it is wonderful. It has an old world feel to it, with the modern day things like a newer stove, chairs that can recline and the like. A soft aroma of a nice herb and it gives the place a really clean spring scent.
Vulcuran: Eyes wide.
VUL: Impressive Josh.
DMaster: JOSH: Ahhh yes. It is.
Vulcuran: VUL: I forgot to ask you yesterday. I was hoping you had the blueprints and word about the construction. I am hoping they sent you that information.
DMaster: Joshua nods his head.
JOSH: Yes, Damon sent me a letter with everything I needed. We are going to take the job too.
Vulcuran: Smile wide.
VUL: Excellent, wait, what? Did you just say we?
DMaster: He chuckles.
JOSH: I meant to say they, it is a force of habit. My son said they will take on the job.
Looks down and frowns.
Vulcuran: VUL: Josh, did you not want to retire?
DMaster: He shakes his head.
JOSH: No, no. It was time, hand it down to my “son” and “family” so to speak, spend some time with the misses, enjoy life.
Vulcuran: Give him an expression like “uh huh.”
VUL: Somehow I don’t believe you. Well, I wont take up too much more of your time, I will let the King and the court know the job is being taken on. Have someone visit the castle in the next few days to just follow up.
Pat him on the back.
VUL: Good to see you again, my retired, busy friend.
DMaster: He snorts and chuckles.
JOSH: You too Vulc, you too.
Vulcuran: Head back, get Jovie and walk back to the Castle.
DMaster: JOV: M’Lord, if I may ask… you are more than capable of defending yourself. Is there any reason why I am here guarding you?
Vulcuran: Smirk as I am walking.
VUL: It’s complicated. I would rather just do things on my own, but with recent events, the King does not want me wandering around unattended.
DMaster: Then she blurts out
JOV: Like the night of the blizzard, you went missing. Then found you with a stab wound on your leg, you were carrying a blanket.
Vulcuran: Glance at her and chuckle.
VUL: Yes. Part of the deal too. You seen the stab wound? I didn’t tell anyone about it.
Stop a moment.
VUL: You remember me holding a blanket?
DMaster: She nods her head.
JOV: First thing I saw. Then I looked at your leg. That armor is awesome that you wear. Very intimidating. But I could see the tear on the left leg, under the greave, blood all over it. Sorry M’Lord, I just have a good memory.
Vulcuran: VUL: Nothing to be sorry for, I appreciate your candor and apparently perfect memory.
Stop the walk, grab her shoulder.
VUL: I am going to require a guard later today, most likely around 1:30. Please make arrangements to be at the castle entrance. But..
Rubbing my chin
VUL: You can’t be in Camerondale gear, you will have to…
DMaster: She jumps a little, wide eyes.
JOV: Not a problem sire, I have other armor.
Jovie is flushed a little, smiling and excited.
Vulcuran: Smile at her and nod.
VUL: If anyone has questions, have them come see me. Be prompt.
DMaster: You drop her off at the inner gates, then head into the castle. It is shortly after high sun. The castle is in it’s usual busy state. People walking around. You can smell a bit of food.
Vulcuran: I will go grab some food, sit and eat.
DMaster: Shortly after you finish your food, Thorin is walking down the hallway to you. He passes you by, kind of ignoring you.
Vulcuran: VUL: Uh Thorin, hello?
DMaster: THOR: yeah yeah I know, but you owe me some food.
He walks into the Kitchen grabs a big sandwich off the shelf and heads back to you, taking a huge bite. Some of it is falling on the floor, condiments on his mouth and cheek.
THOR: mmmm, this is (munch munch) good.
Vulcuran: Roll eyes.
VUL: That. Is pretty disgusting. You kiss Britney with a mouth like that?
Giving him a look.
DMaster: THOR: No, but I do eat her like this…
Vulcuran: VUL: THORIN! Way, way, WAY, too much info there.
DMaster: He chuckles, some food comes out.
THOR: oops.
Vulcuran: Lead him to my room, go in, close the door.
VUL: Try not to drop the rest of your sandwich on my floor?
DMaster: He giggles and nods, almost done with it already. The sandwich slowly oozing out a condiment as he presses it tighter.
Vulcuran: VUL: So we have a thing. A serious thing, and it is going to be hush hush for the short term. Do you understand that?
DMaster: Thorin wipes his messy mouth off with his sleeve, sending some remnants to the ground.
THOR: Oh?
Vulcuran: Sigh, shake my head. Tell him what we found out about the sect.
DMaster: His eyes are huge.
THOR: Don’t you think we would of heard…
A little food is ready to fall out.
Vulcuran: VUL: Thorin, food. Come on man I don’t want to smell rotting meat tonight going to bed.
DMaster: He scrunches his nose. Wipes his mouth again and still seems a bit stunned.
Vulcuran: VUL: Even if it is a farce…
DMaster: He is done eating, gulping hard. Gives you a look.
THOR: Even if it is a fart? what say you?
Vulcuran: Give him a serious looking, but starting to crack a smile.
VUL: Farce, fake, not real. Not fart, stink, smelly, ass air.
DMaster: He giggles a little then turns back to serious. Takes a deep breath.
THOR: This ain’t no bullshit. Whats the plan?
Vulcuran: For now I am going to go find Rexx. See if I can pry any information out of him. Any word on where he is now?
DMaster: Thorin thinks for a moment, belches.
THOR: Oh that smelled terrible.
Vulcuran: Back up a bit, wide eyes staring at him.
DMaster: THOR: Oh sorry. He has been going from tavern to tavern, but last I heard, he was in the Rusty Goblet.
Vulcuran: Nod head.
VUL: Ahh, a step up from the Gobblin Goblin I hope.
DMaster: Sarcastically nods his head.
THOR: Oh yes, we get the least amount of reports of fights and death there than the others. Top notch.
Vulcuran: VUL: By the way, how the hell do you know where he would be? Checking up on him now?
Smirking a bit.
DMaster: Shakes head.
THOR: Hey man, I have my connections too. He can be, well, useful, sometimes. He is getting damn expensive though.
The two of you disperse.
Vulcuran: Wipe up the floor, grumble while I do it.
DMaster: The floor is clean. It is getting close to that time to meet Jovie.
Vulcuran: Get into my gear, grab my weapons, keep my hood down and head out.
DMaster: You get through the castle with a few double takes. In the entranceway is a shorter figure in dark rogue armor, hood drawn and even a mask on the face.
Vulcuran: Big smile across my face.
DMaster: Thorin is there talking with her. He looks back to you. Tells the girl to stay there and walks to you.
THOR: You are taking Jovie, where? To meet Rex? I don’t know…
Giving you a look.
Vulcuran: VUL: Yes. Already set. She seems to know a lot of things.
DMaster: He nods his head emphatically.
THOR: Yes. She knows just about everything and she will yap about it all day long too.
Thorin says somewhat quietly.
THOR: The kid doesn’t shut up…
He says even quieter.
Vulcuran: VUL: We’ll make it work.
Smirk at him.
DMaster: THOR: Yeah good luck with that.
He again shakes his head, says a little something to her on the way out and he is gone.
Vulcuran: Ready Jovie?
DMaster: She nods her head. You can’t see anything but a little bit of the bridge of her nose.
JOV: Yes M’Lord.
Vulcuran: VUL: Let’s go.
DMaster: You two walk out of the Castle, down the pathway and onto the main street behind the inner wall. That leads you to the gates to the inner wall where you have little trouble making it through. Cayson is looking on, eyeing who you are with up.
Vulcuran: Give him a sharp glance and keep moving.
DMaster: Eventually you make it to the entrance to the slums or better known as “The Pit.” You noticed you are being tailed through out the City from the inner gates to the entrance.
JOV: Where are we going M’Lord?
Glancing up to you.
Vulcuran: VUL: I’m not M’Lord right now, understand? Call me…
Rub my chin.
VUL: Ark. It is short for my last name Arqelone.
DMaster: She nods her head.
JOV: Yes, Sire… errr, Ark.
Vulcuran: Pull up my hood, make sure my gear is ready. Look behind me and chuckle.
DMaster: JOV: Hey, Ark. You know we have been getting tailed right?
Giving you a nudge.
Vulcuran: Smile real big under my hood.
VUL: Yes, jov, I do. Thorins best, to keep me safe.
DMaster: You hear her sigh a little. But you both head in.
Vulcuran: VUL: Looking for the Rusty Goblet.
Keep my eyes peeled and such.
DMaster: JOV: This way… two streets to your right and the first street to the left. Will be at the end.
Vulcuran: Give her a look under the hood. “Damn this girl is good.”
DMaster: You two walk to the tavern and to be honest, both of you stick out like a sore thumb. There are some shady people, but not hood drawn, immaculate armor, walking with purpose. So there are people looking and pointing. The smell of stale beer and farts waft out.
JOV: Oh lovely…
She says quietly.
Vulcuran: Head inside.
DMaster: The entryway juts in a good 15 feet, to the door. Once inside to the far right, almost behind you is a long bar with a woman behind it leaning against a counter talking with what seems like a waitress. Straight ahead is about 5 feet of floor and it leads down a few steps to the bar room floor. It is much bigger than you realized putting it at about 40 feet wide and close to 50 feet deep. to the left is tables and chairs lining the walls. Across the far wall is more tables, a few doors and what looks like a kitchen of sorts.The tavern is almost empty right now.
Vulcuran: VUL: This is pretty damn nice for being in the Pit…
mumble that.
DMaster: JOV: It’s not really “in” the pit, persay. On the outskirts, and the prices probably keep most of the riff raff out. The music is nice here, they seems to always have a bard, plus the…
She stops, stands a bit straighter.
JOV: Sorry, M’Lord.
Vulcuran: Sink shoulders glance over to her.
DMaster: She looks from the corner of her eye, then realizes. Shakes her head.
JOV: Ahhh Ark, first ones on you!
She says kind of loud and a forced chuckle.
Vulcuran: Suppress my chuckle and nod my head. See if I can see old Stubbs.
DMaster: Not that you can see, only a few people at the bar, another waitress cleaning and that is about it. The one behind the bar sees you and her eyes bulge a little.
Vulcuran: Walk to one of the tables on the left, sit.
DMaster: The waitress gets the other’s attention and that one heads to the back.
JOV: Hmm. Interesting.
Vulcuran: Nod head.
VUL: Guess they don’t like hooded figures…
say quietly.
DMaster: Out comes a tall man, not very muscular and is more fat than anything. It looks like he was cooking in back. He glances over to see you and heads your way.
Vulcuran: Wait until he gets here.
DMaster: He walks to the table, and stands there for a moment, then heavily leans on the table with both hands.
MAN: What can I get-cha?
Vulcuran: VUL: How is the ale here? Can I drink it or will I have to take it home to clear out a clogged pipe I have?
Looking up to him with a smile.
DMaster: A small smile washes over his face and he even chuckles.
MAN: Honestly, its palatable, probably the best in the Pit.
JOV: Well, this technically isn’t the…
Vulcuran: Kick her under the table.
VUL: Ale is good for us.
DMaster: JOV: Ouch! Oh, ok. Ale is fine.
He looks at her, then back to you with a raised eyebrow. He walks away.
Vulcuran: VUL: Sorry Jovie, just don’t say anything unless I am asking directly. This guy has seen his fair share of brawls and he knows when there is trouble around. For some reason he thinks we are…
DMaster: JOV: Sure thing Ark!
She pulls her mask down and smiles. Eventually he comes back with mugs, puts them on the table hard, swishing them. Some goes on the table.
MAN: 8 copper.
Vulcuran: Pull out 2 silver, slide it to him, but through the ale that spilled.
VUL: Thank you. Keep the rest.
DMaster: The man picks it up and whips it around to get the ale off and it was aimed towards you.
Vulcuran: Stand up quick, grab his shirt.
VUL: I’d stand down if I were you. I am not here to cause trouble, but I am not going to be disrespected because I wear a certain type of armor.
DMaster: The man is leaning into you a bit, growling. But seems to instantly back off a bit, when he had to look up.
MAN: A good a nothing comes with the hoods and the likes of you dem here folks.
Vulcuran: Let go of his collar.
VUL: Goddammit, doesn’t anyone speak common anymore?
Give him a stare under the hood.
DMaster: You are a few inches taller, and you do not thing he was prepared for that. He backs off a bit after Jovie stood up, drew out two long evil looking daggers and flanked him. He glances to her than back to you.
MAN: Waddya want? It shit aint sure this ale. Or the playing not til whenever bard person
Vulcuran: VUL: Where is that slime ball Rexx?
DMaster: Jovies head snaps to you after hearing the name. The large man shakes his head.
MAN: Shitbag was keister tossed yesterday. Welcome no, smells funny too.
Vulcuran: Snort a little and laugh. Straighten up. Grab the Ale and take a huge gulp.
DMaster: Rolled a 12, it’s not bad really.
Vulcuran: Give it a look, burp a little and put it back down.
VUL: Damn, not half bad.
Grab a gold and put it in his hand.
VUL: Thanks for your time.
DMaster: He looks at the gold and then back to you.
Vulcuran: Pat him on the front of his chest.
VUL: Let’s go Poison, no killing today apparently.
DMaster: Jovie has pulled up her mask back up and sheathed her daggers. Shrugs her shoulders.
Vulcuran: VUL: Worried about me? Should be her.
Give her a look as she passes by.
VUL: You’d be dead before you made it to the back, if you weren’t careful.
Walk out the tavern.
DMaster: You two walk a bit a ways.
JOV: Typical day, Ark?
She gives you a look, you can see her eyebrow raised under her hood.
Vulcuran: Laugh,
VUL: Kind of but I found out early you can’t be easy on them. Have to play the part.
DMaster: She nods her head, and is looking around. Points farther down towards the entrance to the street.
JOV: Didn’t realize we were on the look out for old green teeth. Think there is another tavern there, want to look?
Vulcuran: Nod head and move on.
DMaster: You walk to this one, walk in and it is much more typical, and smaller. 20 X 30 maybe, bar on the far wall, to the left looks to be doors and probably where the tavern owner does work. To the right is tables and to the farther is a bar. Much to your delight, Rexx seems to be set up in the far corner to your right.
Vulcuran: Smile and walk towards him.
DMaster: He seems to be with someone. The guards see you and they go to stand.
Vulcuran: Walk over pick the person out of the seat and put him on the opposite side of me.
VUL: Yeah, you are done here.
DMaster: The man goes to object, but turns and looks up, way up.
Vulcuran: Turn and glare at him.
VUL: Was I not clear?
DMaster: The man then looks to Jovie and he backs up slowly, wide eyes. Turns and pretty much runs out of the tavern. Rexx has a resting bitch face staring at you, the guards seem anxious. The table has a few coppers on it, and a few mugs of what you expect ale.
Vulcuran: Turn back to the table, slip the chair around, straddle it. Lean on the back of the chair
VUL: Ol’ Rexxy, how’ve you been?
Grab a mug and down it.
DMaster: Its swill.
Vulcuran: Cough and gag.
VUL: Goddammit, that is horrible.
DMaster: Jovie is standing just to your left, knowing you are right handed. Any movement would not be impeded by her standing there. Rexx leans forward and sighs loudly.
REX: What, what do you want? My business is dwindling because everyone seems to know we meet all the time and they are afraid that…
Vulcuran: Slam hand on the table.
VUL: Don’t care.
Give him a stern look.
DMaster: His eyes bulge a little and you can sense the anger in his face. In a quieter tone.
REX: You better care, if you want too…
Vulcuran: Drop a bag of coins on the table. Give it a look, and look back to him.
VUL: Need a bit of information. You have it, you can cry in your ale in your new stronghold or wherever for all I care. Don’t have it, then you will get nada.
DMaster: He means back and crosses his arms.
REX: The right color?
Nodding towards the bag.
Vulcuran: Nod my head.
DMaster: REX: Out with it, what do you need?
Vulcuran: Lean in and stare at him. Say a bit quieter, with a slight hiss too it.
VUL: Our friend out in the teeter winds plains is no longer green, he is white. But he also has some sects in the city and I want to know where…
DMaster: He looks befuddled.
REX: He is having sex in the city?
Vulcuran: Sigh loud, look down.
VUL: Listen to me Rexx. Spies, harbored in the City, feeding that dickhead in the plains information. Where are they?
Saying it fairly quiet.
DMaster: By the look on his face you can tell he knows. But his mannerisms are telling you he might not talk.
REXX: I don’t have anything in stone on that, or anything like it.
Clears his throat.
Vulcuran: Stand up, hands on table leaning in even further.
VUL: Tell. Me. Now.
DMaster: One of the guards goes to stand but Jovie already pulled her dagger and is aiming it at him.
JOV: Not a good idea.
Rex looks at the bag.
Vulcuran: Hand him the bag, it’s heavy.
DMaster: His eyes light up at the weight. Glances to you.
REX: You’re a bastard. There better be enough in here for me to last a while.
Vulcuran: Give him a look and a growl.
VUL: You ain’t gettin’ nothing until…
DMaster: REX: McDermott.
He says, standing up, pouch in hand.
Vulcuran: Eyes go big,
VUL: What? What does that mean?
DMaster: He glares at you from under his hood.
REX: Believe me, you will understand. So if you could rightly just fuck off, I need to go find a place to lay low.
Motions for his guards to leave with him.
Vulcuran: Look at Jovie quickly.
VUL: McDermott mean anything to you?
DMaster: She nods.
JOV: Not much except, a printing shop, that went out of business about a month ago. We were scoping it for squatters, but a few weeks ago we stopped, it is under new management I guess.
Vulcuran: Eyes get big.
VUL: A month, that coordinates.
Shake head and look at him leaving.
VUL: This better be what I am looking for, or I’ll gut you like a one legged orc.
DMaster: Jovies eyes widen and she snorts a little. He doesn’t even look back and waves his hand.
Vulcuran: VUL: Definitely won’t be the last time we see Rexx.
Chuckle as I turn to leave the tavern.
DMaster: By your side, she chuckles.
JOV: Why is that, uh, um, Ark?
Vulcuran: VUL: He just left with a bag filled with 50 copper…