Morrath Jones (a solo campaign in Ptolus)

[Lentava-Heppa]

It has been two weeks since you packed the little that you own and left the village of Soerith. Having never been this long or this far away from your family and home it would be wrong to claim that you haven't felt any uncertainty or homesickness during your trip. In fact you aren't sure if anyone in your family has ever visited a city this large. Despite all the doubts that have crossed your mind the strength of your resolve to reach your goals has kept you from turning back.

This morning you saw the first sight of Spire, the massive landmark of the city, rising to the sky far ahead of you. The sight removed any doubts from your soul and made you feel anxious in a new way. Perhaps it is just the excitement of finally reaching your destination, perhaps something bigger.

The road becomes more crowded as you close to the city. Everything from small wagons of peasants to large trade caravans seems to be traveling towards and out from the city. You joined one of the trade caravans only a few days after leaving Soerith and realizing that the roads might not be safe to travel alone. For the last few days the vicinity of the city would surely have made the roads safer again but you've stayed with the group for company and to hear more about the city.

The stories you have been told have ranged from one merchant barely escaping a group of ghouls after having visited the cemetery too late to the caravan guards' wild nights at Esser's brothel at the docks. You are sure that some of them have been exaggerated and others just made up but still it seems that nearly anyone who has visited the city has something to tell. It's given you a lot of basic knowledge about the most important locations and organizations in the city even though you can't be sure that everything is exact.

You finally reach the north gate of Ptolus in late afternoon. At this time slightly more people are leaving the city than going in but there is still long line to wait in. You can see dozens of tents and a few larger storehouses outside the walls and many vendors selling goods to people entering the city or waiting in line. Water, bread, ale, maps, vegetables... The list goes on. The walls themselves are massive, forty feet high and nearly half as thick with the large gate tower through which everyone entering the city needs to go.

After twenty minutes of waiting you finally get through the gates. Four guards stand close by seeming pretty relaxed as they watch the crowd. You have to tell your name and reason for entering to an official who writes every person down and collects tax. Only two copper from you but a lot more from the merchants with their wagons.

You walk inside and enter the market district. If you would need to describe it in one word it would be crowded. Stalls, shouts, wagons and loads of people fill the streets. You are in Ptolus.

[Darwin]

Morrath sighed to himself. This is nothing like Soerith. I really wish I had some other choice. He felt a light stir in his stomach as the thoughts of his hometown crossed his mind. Suddenly, without warning an ogre revealed itself from a street corner forcing his thoughts back on the track. Where's the panic? They've got a giant on the loose and nobody's screaming? The hulking creature came towards him with a little trouble, apparently no one even cared enough about the giantkin to even move aside. With careful steps it proceeded past him and out the city gates.

As soon as the beast leaves his sight Morrath shakes his head, places a hand on the first man to pass him and with a slight shaking voice asks him. Sir, did I just witness an ogre pass by me within city limits?

[Lentava-Heppa]

The citizen turns to Morrath so that they see each other in more detail. He seems to be dressed very nicely with his shaggy brown hair, spectacles and beard. The emptily hanging sleeve hints that most the man's right arm is missing but his left hand rests on a wooden box strapped to his waist.

What? Oh, I didn't pay attention. Perhaps someone redeemed by the brotherhood... Or some of Vladaam's bodyguards... Or I wonder if the city watch has finally been able to recruit someone stupid enough... He begins pondering before snapping back. Might be anything, really. Are you new here, then? Welcome to the city! May I interest you in some goods?

The man quickly opens the box with his left hand and begins demonstrating you the contents. The box holds all manner of small objects that he sells for a few coppers or maybe a silver coin: spools of string, needles, buttons, soap, quill pens, chalk, little toys, whistles, small tools, or even an empty flask, a colorfully painted mug, or a pair of stockings.

[Darwin]

Morrath stares not entirely unlike a sheep into the wooden box for a few seconds, then he turns his eyes back to the one-armed salesman's spectacles. Sir... I'm not exactly sure you understood me, there was an ogre... an ogre! Walking down the street, it even looked liked he cared about not stepping on someone's feet? From where I come from ogres EAT people!

He places a hand on the lid of the opened wooden box and closes it before the man has any chance of showing him more household effects. I'm sorry but I don't really need anything at the moment. But perhaps I could pay for an ale or two at the local tavern should you be able to spare the time needed for such. He adds with a nervous smile.

[Lentava-Heppa]

The citizen nods a few times. Ah, I'm sure most would here too. If you happen to see one that eats people, don't go close. But if it won't it's probably due to some wizard or something. That's the kind of stuff that wizards do, I think. He says even though he doesn't sound very certain of details.

A tavern you say? He asks and grins. What kind of a person would I be if I didn't have time for a small talk! He continues and gestures you to come with him as he begins walking through the streets. The Red Stallion is right around the corner. It serves mostly drinks but has some snacks too. The biggest alehouse in the district... Oh, I almost forgot. My name is Farfran. He stops to say as you enter the pub.

The place is full of everything. Merchants, laborers and farmers all sit in different sized groups in tables and several staff members go around serving full pints, collecting empty ones and so on. Yallis, two ales over here! He shouts to a woman behind the bar and flashes her a smile as he leads you to a table.

[Darwin]

Morrath ducks for every wooden beam supporting the ceiling. Clearly this tavern was not built with men of his height in mind. As he sits down he digs up a small handful of copper coins and lays them on the table. He takes a quick count of them, 9 copper, that should do for now, hopefully they're not taking too much in tips here. The name's Morrath. Obvious as it is I'm new to town. Recent events has led me to believe my town of birth, Soerith, wasn't the right place for me to be anymore. His voice could easily be compared to that of a saw gnawing it's way through solid oak. Are wizards common here in Ptolus? I came here in hope of finding something along the lines of a mentor. It's probaly not going to be this easy, but I guess it can't hurt to ask around. He thought to himself.

[Lentava-Heppa]

Farfran examines you a bit more carefully than before and nods lightly. Well, there are quite a few in the city. The really powerful ones belong to the inverted pyramid. But I don't really know much anything about them... There has recently been a rumor about another wizards' guild having came to town but I haven't concerned myself with such much... And then there are of course a lot of wizards not belonging to any organization... But to tell the truth, I am sure I'm not the most knowledgeable person about wizards.

A waitress brings two pints to the table and Farfran takes a sip from his own. Soerith, eh? It's somewhere in the north, isn't it? Well, I can understand you. Never could live outside big cities myself. Out there in the wilderness where you are in constant danger of being eaten by an ogre... He says and shudders.

[Darwin]

Nope... This guy is not going to be one any use. But he seems nice, I guess it can't hurt establishing a few friends at first. It's a big city and I'll need some help navigating.

I don't know about you, but I'm not sure I'm going to get a lot of sleep this first week. I'm used to quiet solitude of the farmlands, perhaps only disturbed by the occasional owl. Speaking about owls! I actually managed to fight off a rampaging owlbear once. We found him murdering old Thomas' treasured cow Bessie one day as we were on our way back home from the fields. Thank god we had a pitchfork and a few sledgehammers with us. Although I've heard a lot of heroic stories about fearless farmhands I'm not sure it would have ended well if we fought the bastard bare-handed. Morrath grabs his mug with a huge fist and takes a big gulp of it as he finishes the sentence with a satisfied smile.

[Lentava-Heppa]

The man listens seeming fascinated, grins and takes a large gulp of his ale too. But I thought you called yourself a wizard? He asks sounding a bit uncertain.

I don't have many large stories of bravery to tell, I'm afraid. I was born in this city and have lived here all my life. Selling, buying and trading everything that I happen to come by. He says and taps the wooden box on his waist a few times.

[Darwin]

A wizard... No that's not really it. I... I'm special lets just keep it at that. Morrath stares at the table as he mutters the sentences. I was the cause of something in Soerith. Now I'm here so I can prevent accidents from happening again. He looks up as he finishes.

You say that you don't know a lot about wizardry, but what about curses? A man who wished me well told me that's the subject my whole situation is all about. Morrath's eyes briefly looks world-weary, but quickly regain their usual glow as he takes another sip of the bitter ale.

[Lentava-Heppa]

Farfran shakes his head. I'm sorry but I can't claim to know much about those either. But... He begins with a smile. I can at least tell you a place where people should know. There is a place called Delvers' Square in midtown. A lot of adventurers hang around there. Wizards too, I'm sure. Wouldn't be a bad place to start looking, I guess.

And I have seen some people with Delvers' Guild's badges here quite often too. He says and looks around. None at the moment it seems but at least one adventurer sits here very often selling maps. He might know something. And here might well live wizards too for all I know. But aside from those... The folks at the temple district might have some information.

[Darwin]

I don't know about the temple district... I never fancied myself much of a spiritual person. Neither can I claim myself to be much of an adventurer, but I will probaly stand a better chance at the Delver's Guild. He empties the mug in one last draught and pushes the stool away from the table.

Well Farfran, that'll be it for me. I guess you and I better get back to business. If you could point me in the direction of midtown I think I'll be able to figure out the rest on my own.

[Lentava-Heppa]

Farfran nods. It should be easy to find your way there. The road right outside is Emeral Road. Just walk south, cross the King's River, walk over Emerald hill and through Fairbriar and you are in the right neighborhood. Turn west just after the Black Swan and you are at the square. If you get lost just ask around. Pretty much anyone should be able to guide your way there. He continues with a smile. As you stand up to leave he adds May the 53 smile on you in your search.

You walk out of the pub, look around you, turn left and begin walking down the street. It is still busy everywhere but it is no longer just because of the crowds but because of the merchants, vendors and peasants packing their goods and emptying the stalls. While the streets are still packed with people it seems that this area might be nearly deserted during nights.

After a moment the market squares and stalls begin to get more scarce and the buildings along the roads begin having religious symbols. Some you recognize, some you have seen before though can't connect them to anything and some you've never seen earlier. As varying as the symbols are the buildings. Ranging from large temples of beautifully crafted white stone to small shrines at the street corners and to some buildings, there is everything. But temples aren't only buildings here, the homes of priests and most devout worshipers, offices of the Lothian church, shops selling items used in religious rites, homes of the clergy...

And as if to compete with the buildings in variety the people walking on the streets seem none the less ordinary. While the majority of course is common folk on their way to or from temples, you see priests and monks. Some ascetic, others full of gold and jewelry. You can see a large tower of a beautiful cathedral rising to the sky a few blocks to the east from the road you are walking.

You turn your face to the western sky. Two platforms of city rise above you with beautiful buildings. Neither of them manages to steal your attention from the large spire behind them. The sunset paints the spiral and sky around it red. For a moment you feel the odd anxiety again as you can't shake the view from your mind but then the King's river gives you something else to think about.

Only the stone bridge stands between you and the hundreds of feet of fall before hitting the raging water bordered by stone steeps on both sides. On the other side of the bridge you find Emerald Hill.

The hill reminds you more of a park than it does of a neighborhood. The beautiful buildings are what you instantly recognize to be elven architecture. Their curved shapes and the trees under which you see elven kids play make you feel calm again. At the top of the hill you notice a large inn. After walking down on the other side of the hill you enter Fairbriar.

Gnomes and halflings seem to make up more than half of the population here. Most of the buildings are a lot smaller, the smell of good food tries to lure you into the inns and restaurants at the sides of the road. Every once in a while you see a gnome playing some instrument at the corners of a building and a small crowd sitting around and listening.

Eventually you get through the neighborhood and can immediately see the difference. More than anywhere earlier you encounter adventuring parties. Cloaked figures, races you have never seen before, heavily armored groups, a wizard flying in the sky above you... The last few blocks before you reach your destination are amazing. And then... You see the square.

A large statue of an armored figure dominates the center of the square. Next to it are stairs leading underground. The square is surrounded by a large inn marked as the Ghostly Minstrel, a watch house of the city guard, a weapon shop called Rastor's weapons, a shop with "Bull and Bear armory" sign hanging above it and a bar with "Danbury's" written in artistic letters above the door. Adventurers of all sorts fill the square, as do members of the city watch.

[Darwin]

Nearly dazed from the massive sensory input flung at him from the city's streets Morrath takes a seat at a nearby bench. He rummages through his backpack and digs up the remaining half of his last trail ration. Quietly eating he tries get an overview of the square. A a small group of lizardmen whom he recognizes only from a picture book from his childhood passes by talking in a hissing language.

The Ghostly Minstrel looks decent, perhaps I should secure myself a room before they become booked for the night. Morrath crumbles the wrapping paper and tosses it to the left as he rises from his seat. He then proceeds to walk towards the Ghostly Minstrel Inn, in hopes of finding a safe, somewhat sanitary room to station himself at during his stay in Ptolus.

[Lentava-Heppa]

http://kuvaton.com/k/O27.jpg

You walk through the street towards Ghostly Minstrel, a large three story high tavern and inn.

You open the door and step inside to the comfortable warmth of the inn. In front of you you see stairs leading to the upper floor and a reception desk next to them. Behind the desk stands a pretty young woman with reddish-brown hair. She gives you a small smile and a polite nod as you notice her.

http://kuvaton.com/k/t/OSB.jpg (http://kuvaton.com/k/OSB.jpg)

To your right opens up a taproom. A bald, skinny and gruff bartender stands behind a bar and two waitresses deliver pints to customers. Some of the said customers look quite eccentric as they include members of many races and some obviously geared for adventuring. Shouts, laughs and loud conversation fill the air.

To your left opens up a dining room. While the patrons there are still more varying than in a regular inn, there are less people who wear armor or have large weapons at hand.
You see a menu nailed to the wall next to the entrance to dining hall.

http://kuvaton.com/k/t/OS8.jpg (http://kuvaton.com/k/OS8.jpg)

[Darwin]

Although just having finished the last of his daily meals Morrath takes a minute reading the menu. Pity I'm full. It's been ages since the last time I had fish. I guess that settles the menu for tomorrow. He thinks to himself as he turns to face the redheaded receptionist.

Excuse me miss, my name is Morrath and I've just arrived in town. I'm going to need a room for a rather long time, is that something you can provide me? He lets off in perhaps a little too loud voice. Morrath never had the chance to get familiar with noisy environments, as most of the villagers back in Soerith almost automatically quieted down whenever he was nearby.

[Lentava-Heppa]

Of course. Welcome to the city and the Ghostly Minstrel! We have rooms for five or seven silver, one gold piece or two gold a night depending on what kind of a room would you like. For five shields you'll get to share a room with a few other people. Seven gets you a bed in a room with one other person. The woman says with a refreshing and vivid tone in her voice. A golden throne gets you a private room. Two thrones are enough for a fancier room and a larger bed. Useful to make a good impression on certain occasions. She continues and gives barely notable wink.

[Darwin]

I think I'll go with a shared room, I might end up sharing it with someone interesting. Morrath gives a nervous smile, he digs up two gold coins and a silver shield. I better get myself a pouch of some sort, this is going to be a hassle in the long run.

This should do for 3 nights, right? He says as he drops the coins on the reception desk. The stairs outside leading underground, they wouldn't happen to lead me to the Delver's Guild would they? I was told it could be found in this district but I'm not completely sure where exactly.

[Lentava-Heppa]

The young woman takes the coins and puts them under the desk. Yes, they do. Well, they lead to Undercity market to be exact but you can get to the Delver's Guild's office through there. Just go down the stairs and go into the corridor immediately on your right. But then there is the market itself. There are people selling food, weapons, firearms, alchemical items, arcane scrolls, potions and so on.

[Darwin]

Morrath can't help but laugh. Are there anywhere in this city where you cannot buy everything? I think getting my shopping needs covered is the least of my worries now that I am here! He laughs even louder than before. A few heads from the dining areas turn, looking for the source of the commotion, but eventually they loose interest as they discover it's only a man with a little lack of volume control.

Now if you would kindly show me my room so that I may rid myself of unnecessary burdens? I've been carrying this backpack for many days now, it's going to feel good letting my shoulders have their freedom back again.

[Lentava-Heppa]

The woman joins your laugh with her bright voice. It can certainly feel like that. But there are many areas of the city not quite this packed with vendors. But come, I'll show you the way. She says, unlocks a small cabinet next to her, takes a key from there, locks the cabinet again before walking to the stairs and to the second floor. She turns right twice just after the stairs and walks down the corridor to a wooden door. The young woman knocks quickly and as there is no answer opens the door and gestures you to go in.

Two made beds are separated by a small table and another small table stands next to a wall. Two glass windows open towards the square. A view to the square. The other bed is taken too but it seems that he isn't here right now. Is there anything else I can do for you? She asks politely as she gives you the key.

[Darwin]

Morrath drops the backpack in his bed and takes the key with a nod. Could you perhaps tell me who I'm sharing this room with? He says as he starts emptying the backpack of coins, as copper, silver and gold spills unto the bed he picks them up and stuffs them in his pockets.

I don't want to sound suspicious, I'm sure your lodgings guests here at the Minstrel are honest folk. I'm merely asking out of interest. He picks up the last four copper coins from the bed. Here you go, a small tip on my account. and without further notice he drops the copper pieces into her open palm.

[Lentava-Heppa]

A man called William. A spellcaster of some sort, it seemed. Has been here about a week and has his room paid in advance for quite a while. I haven't ever really had any longer conversation with him. The woman says and shrugs. She flashes you a charming smile and makes a small curtsy as you give her the tip.

[Darwin]

He's probaly one of those wizards Farfran talked about. Morrath mutters to himself. But he's paid for a long time in advance I guess he can't be up to anything bad. I've heard those wizards were quite a bunch of bookworms, not much chance of him being unruly company I suppose. He smiles to himself at the thought of sharing a room with a wizard. During his life in Soerith he had never imagined himself keeping that kind of company, but apparently things were up for a change.

I will be leaving now for a few errands, perhaps I can still catch a few of the shops before they close for the night. Should my roommate ask about me you can tell him I'll be back this evening. He bows and follows the receptionist down to ground level again. The noise itches in his ears as he goes down the stairs. I sure hope it quiet downs a bit at bedtime here or I might be right about not getting any sleep the first few days.

Morrath opens the door, the afternoon breeze carries a nasty air from a nearby tannery, but still it was refreshing compared to the dead, smoky air of the Inn. With his mouth Morrath takes a deep breath, filling his chest. Alright! Time to get to business he utters as he takes the first step down the stairs to the Undercity market, his pockets full of clinging coins.

[Lentava-Heppa]

The woman nods and leads you downstairs. As she gets back to her duties at the desk you begin making your way to the stairs. As you walk past the large statue next to it you can read the text Abesh Runihan, slayer of lich Kagrisos carved into the base. You begin walking down the stairs.

Infront of you is a great hall lit by many torches and magical lights. They aren't quite enough to repel the cold, dark and damp atmosphere of undeground locations but do a great deal to make it less uncomfortable. Half a dozen corridors lead from the hall full of stalls to different directions. The goods offered on them range from torches and ropes to weapons, armor, scrolls, alchemical items... Even one stall selling firearms. But the one thing that connects them all is that they are items that common folk would unlikely need and unlikely be able to afford.

http://kuvaton.com/k/OS2.jpg

[Darwin]

The moist, dungeonlike atmosphere hits Morrath as he goes down the stairs. He shivers and rubs his naked arms. Perhaps a sleeveless tunic isn't going to cut it. I sure hope they've got a cape my size somewhere, or else I'll just have to pay a tailor. He thinks to himself as he wanders from stall to stall, looking at the adventuring gear presented from the various merchants. Some of them looks like they've had their share of adventure already.

He stops up as soon as he spots what he's looking for, a leather merchant. He coughs and adresses himself to the salesperson behind the table. Excuse me, you wouldn't happen to have a handy pouch for sale would you? I've grown to believe my pockets aren't the most suitable place to keep my valuables anymore.

[Lentava-Heppa]

Behind the table is a small stool upon which sits a short human woman with red hair and green eyes. The table is full of leather items - Belts, straps, leather armor, water skins, backpacks and so on. A pouch? The normal kind, attachable to a belt? Sure. She says and draws one from a small crate next to the table. She sets it on the table for you to examine. A single gold throne for that. How does it sound?

[Darwin]

Morrath picks up a dark green dyed pouch with simple brass buckles for attaching it to a belt. This will done nicely, here's your gold. He picks up a gold coin from his right pocket and pays the woman.

While stuffing the remains of his wealth into his newly purchased belt pouch Morrath asks: Say, if I wanted to know something about the spellcasters in Ptolus, where would you suggest me to ask?

[Lentava-Heppa]

I would say... Here. The woman says and grins. There is a gnome wizard selling scrolls every day by the corner on the just opposite side of the hall to the stairs. The one with large hand written sign stating Arcane Scribe. Ner... Neridoc I think. He has probably left home for today already but would likely know a thing or two... The woman ponders. Then there is that couple with their own shop of alchemical items just left from the stairs when you come down here and as far as I know they are both spellcasters. But if those aren't enough... The tavern called Danbury's on the square above us is favored by wizards probably more than any other place in the city. If you can't find what you are looking for from any of these, I don't know.

[Darwin]

Danbury's eh? I believe I spotted it on my way down here, I guess I'll have to get upstairs again. Not that it bothers me, this damp atmosphere isn't exactly my thing if you know what I mean..

He closes the pouch with a silent "click" and turns his back on Undercity Market as he proceeds towards the stairs leading back up to the surface. As he reaches the surface he takes a quick glance, and spots the elegantly written sign spelling "Danbury's". With hope in his heart that someone here will provide him the help he needs so dearly he opens the door to the tavern.

[Lentava-Heppa]

As many of the vendors begin gathering their stuff to go home for the night you take your leave from the Undercity. You walk up the stairs to the Delver's Square. The sun has just descended below the horizon and only the last trace of red hue remain to tell that it was just a day. Even so the square itself is well lit with torches and the steady stream of people from and to the pubs around it keep the square alive. You make your way to the pub called Danbury's, open the door and step inside.

While a lot smaller than the Ghostly Minstrel, Danbury's is not an inn or a restaurant in similar degree. The first floor seems to be comparable to Ghostly Minstrel's taproom in acreage but unlike the taproom of Ghostly Minstrel, Danbury's extends to the second floor as well.

And what is the place like? For a tavern it seems somewhat classier and likely more expensive than most you've been in. The walls are decorated with beautiful paintings and carvings that create nice and calm atmosphere. Candles and torches illuminating the area add to the mood despite not seeming to produce any smoke.

The clientèle seems to consist largely of mages and it is easy to see. Many have spell component pouches, staffs, wands, scroll cases, scrolls spread to the tables in front of them and small animals on their shoulders or in their feet. A small group of humans is arguing loudly about subjects you aren't familiar with and using terms you haven't heard before... But despite all of this, the place is still a tavern. Everything that happens here happens between people with pints in their hands.

Not everyone in here is a mage of course. Many people lack any clear signs that identify them as spellcasters of any sort. Others can be easily recognized as members of upper class due to their clothing and jewelry.

Behind all of this is a bar and a dwarf bartender handing out pints from behind it.

[Darwin]

Feeling a bit insecure Morrath tiptoes through the taproom, trying his best not to push anything over, or step on someone's familiar. He couldn't have felt more out of place here and he'd rather share a tavern with thieves and murderers, instead of this motley crew. After performing his little ballet of a walk through the bar he finds a seat at the rightmost end of the bardesk.

A few minutes pass here in silence, as Morrath gathers courage to adress the dwarf. Then, as the dwarf comes within hearing range: Ehm, sorry master Dwarf, I'd like a pint if it's not too much of a trouble.

[Lentava-Heppa]

The dwarf notices you well before you speak but only then does he turn to you and nod. Sure. Seven copper. He says, fells a pint and hands it you. He looks at you a moment and continues A new face here mmh. Anything else you need mmh?

[Darwin]

Morrath pays for the ale.

There might be something. A gal down in the undercity market told me that I could get information up here. I need to know if... if I can find something called a Hexblade here in Ptolus. A wandering sage told me about them, and now I NEED to see one, as soon as possible. Please... If you know something that might lead me to a Hexblade or something similar I promise you I'll make it worth it to you.

[Lentava-Heppa]

The dwarf raises an eyebrow. A hexblade you say mmh... He says and thinks a moment.

((Knowledge check: [roll0]))

I have heard that before mmh... Used to hang around here. Only ever talked with a few people mmh. Then began acting odd. Aggressive. Killed someone the rumors tell mmh. One day commissar's men came and dragged him away. Mmh. Zairic there could tell you more I'm sure. The man says and points at a gnome sitting in the corner table. Works at Mahdoth's Asylum in South Market. A madhouse for insane spellcasters. Mmh. The dwarf says and shakes his head.

[Darwin]

Morrath leans a little closer. An asylum for insane spellcasters? The founders must've been the crazy ones building something like that within city limits. I've heard some pretty amazing stories about the arcane arts, and if only half of them were true I'd be more than worried about having psychotic casters within less than 3 miles!

[Lentava-Heppa]

The dwarf nods. Mmh. You aren't the only one to think like that. But the mages like knowing that if their studies tax their minds too much they might not need to be executed. Mmh. With somewhat lengthy existence of the place and few escapes in it's history I guess that Mahdoth and the fellows know how to deal with them.

[Darwin]

I hope you're right about that. Now, I promised you I'd make it worth your while, and I'm a man of my words. Morrath says as he fishes up a gold coin from his pouch. A gold throne for your golden information. He drop the coin on the desk as he rises from his seat.

It takes another show of modern-medieval dancing for Morrath to arrive at Zairic the gnome's table, this time without spilling from the mug of ale in his hand. Excuse me, the barkeep just directed me to your table, I believe you know something of great value to me. Do you mind if I have a seat?.

Morrath places the mug on the table and quickly fetches a stool before the gnome has a chance to say no. The barkeep told me you're working at an asylum down in south market. Perhaps you could tell me something about a Hexblade living here in Ptolus?

[Lentava-Heppa]

The barkeep takes your tip, nods and goes to continue his work of serving other customers as you make your way to the gnome. Zairic seems to be middle aged for a gnome. His well kept hair, trimmed beard and neat but practical clothing give pleasant first impression of someone who takes care of himself but doesn't seem arrogant. Despite him not having been given time to answer the gnome does not seem to mind your company.

Good evening. A hexblade? Hexblade, hexblade... He begins tasting the word and trying to remember something. Ah yes. Well, why not. I encountered the term when researching a subject brought to me by commissar's men some two months ago. He had gotten himself arrested for illegal worship of Destor if I recall. Or was it demon worship? Perhaps assosciating with chaos cultists... Something like that.

Well, I researched him a while and determined him not to be powerful or dangerous enough for the normal prison not to hold him nor in bad enough mental shape to need the rest. He was given back to the city watch and most likely delivered to prison.

Is there anything more specific you want to know about him?

[Darwin]

Morrath lets out a heavy sigh. Prison... Charlatan bless me.

There are a few things I need to know... First and foremost, do you think it's possible to pay this fellow a visit? And second, how hard is it going to be getting him out of there?

[Lentava-Heppa]

The gnome grins. Well, the minimum time to rot in jail for illegal worshiping is one year but it could be as much as twenty. So he isn't going to get out quickly. You could try to get commissar or Prince of the Church to sign an order to get him freed but I doubt you would have much luck with this case. Or you could try to get some of the noble families to begin working on it. Most might not be too fond of the idea but I don't think that the Rau, Sadar or Vladaam would be impossible to work with if you have something to offer them. He says and shakes his head.

Other than that there is little you can do through legal means. There are rumors that the prison warden takes bribes but I would guess that they aren't cheap either. But getting to meet him would probably be easier to achieve. The supply boat goes to prison every day and with enough money changing owner I am sure you could meet him.

The gnome spits words out of his mouth in clear disrespect when referring to the prison warden.

[Darwin]

Morrath takes a sip and shakes his head. As much as I'd like it to be, bribes are out of question. I barely have enough money keep myself alive for the rest of the month, I have no job and I've got no friends or family that I know of here in Ptolus.

I'd like you to tell me a little more about these nobles. I've got a feeling that they're my best chance of getting what I want.

[Lentava-Heppa]

Well well well... As you surely know the nobility of Ptolus doesn't have any official rule in the hierarchy of the imperium. In practice they have enough wealth, contacts, respect and power to make things happen if they begin to pull the strings. Some of the houses wouldn't do that lightly.

Khatru would just be happy to see all the casters of the city thrown in prison. House Nagel is having so hard times that you can probably get them to do nothing. The merchant house Abanar, houses Erthuo, Dallimothan, Shever and Kath probably wouldn't have any motivation to participate. You might be able to get help from any of them actually if you can get their favor.

But houses Sadar, Vladaam and Rau are all known for their wizards to some extent. None of them have completely clear reputation but still... I would imagine them to be easiest to ask for help. But even they are very unlikely to give their help away for nothing. I am not the most knowledgeable about nobility. There are several libraries in the Oldtown - namely the Delver's Guild's library, the City library and the Sages' Guild - that might give more details on any specific house. And perhaps I can tell you too if you know what you need. But if you want general information, I don't know what to tell and don't have the interest to begin explaining the whole history of all the houses. The gnome says with a smile.

[Darwin]

Morrath nods as the gnome explains. The libraries are not for me, I'm not much of a bookworm, and I've always felt uncomfortable stuck between all that paper. Does Sadar, Vladaam or Rau take audiences? If so I'll be taking my chance asking them up their face as soon as possible.

[Lentava-Heppa]

Zairic thinks a moment before answering. Well... You could just try and knock to the entrances of their estates. It seems very possible that some family member in any of them could have the time to see you either then or in the near future. But to get to Nobles' Quarter you need to go through Dalenguard and the guards there aren't known to let just about anyone through if they don't seem to fit in or be on some important task. You would probably either need to see some good tailor first or be able to come up with something good to tell to the guards. Well... Without the tailor you will unlikely make the best possible first impression anyways but if you get to that point

Alternatively you could try to find some of the members outside Nobles' Quarter. Both Gattara Vladaam and Renn Sadar visit this tavern occasionally - though I can't exactly recommend you to associate with someone of Gattara's temperament - but I am sure that by looking into it a bit more you could find out some other places that the houses' representatives visit often outside Nobles' Quarter. I would guess

As the last thing I can think of you could naturally try just writing and sending a letter to someone and try to get an invitation to talk about it. Though there is of course the risk that whoever receives the letter isn't interested enough.

[Darwin]

I'm not willing risk waiting days, perhaps weeks for an answer to a letter that will probaly just end up crumbled up on the bottom of a trash bin. I am a man of words, not letters master Zairic.

After emptying his mug he continues.
I'm sure the sentries stationed at Dalenguard will let me past if my business there is genuine. And If they're not I'll convince them with other means, trust me on that one. He says with an intimidating smile. Pity to the man standing between Morrath Jones and his goals.

[Lentava-Heppa]

The gnome laughs and gives you a smile. Perhaps so. But be careful not to become to obsessed in reaching those goals. Believe me, I've seen too many who have. He says with a friendly tone in his voice.

But I wish you both good night and good luck in reaching your goals.

[Darwin]

Thank you, and may the gods... well the legitimate ones at the very least bless your path Zairic. He bids the gnome farewell.

With thoughts circulating in his head Morrath leaves Danbury's, crosses Delver's Square and enters The Ghostly Minstrel Inn. He gives a nod to the receptionist from earlier and immediately heads for his room. As he climbs the stairs he feels the ale making his head spin. Funny how socializing often requires you to sacrifice brain cells.

Finally arriving at his room for the night, he finds the key, sticks it in the lock and enters the room, ready for a good night's rest.

[Lentava-Heppa]

As you enter the room you notice that it has been visited. There is a backpack lying next to the other bed but the room seems otherwise untouched. You close the door behind you and go to sleep.

You fall asleep very easily after the long and tiresome trip and the few pints you've drinken after that. Not deeply enough to not awake when you hear someone to open the lock and walk into the room but as you see the figure making his way to the other bed and going to sleep you don't give it any more thought before falling to sleep again.

In the morning you feel unable to remember any of your dreams. You only have a fleeting feeling that they were restless nightmares until you began hearing a faint sound of lyre from the upper floor. That calmed you down and for the rest of the night you slept well and peacefully.

The morning light works it's way into the room from the glass windows. You can hear the muffled sounds of people talking and dining in the lower floor. On the other bed is a man sleeping. He is apparently in his thirties. A clean shaved beard, short blond hair. Nothing very special is apparent from him on the first look.

[Darwin]

Yawning, Morrath pays his roommate no notice as he gets dressed. With a slightly throbbing head from yesterday's ale he proceeds down the stairs, into the dining area where he orders some bread and cheese. Where eats in silence, planning the coming day's events.

After finishing his breakfeast he sits for a little while, absorbing the atmosphere of the Ghostly Minstrel in the morning.

Paid 3 cp for the bread and cheese

[Lentava-Heppa]

You walk downstairs and look around. At this time of the day the taproom is nearly empty but the restaurant side is somewhat busy. You sit down and order bread and cheese and look around you. Most patrons around here seem to be eating their breakfast like you are so there are constantly people coming in or leaving. Not all come from the upper floors but it seems that some people just visit here to eat and some come in looking tired from a night's work, eat something and go to the upper floors to sleep.

Aside from one massive and muscular litorian eating quite large breakfast with his greatsword leaning to the wall next to him there are few people standing out from the crowd much.

[Darwin]

Another few minutes passes by with Morrath sitting at his chair, humming to himself. He sneaks a glance at the litorian every now and then; that guy looks like something taken right out of a fairy tale. But I'd probaly be better off not letting him know that.

Standing up, Morrath brushes off the breadcrumbs of his trousers, then heads out of the door to the Delver's Square. He takes a walk around the square, looking for a tailor of some sorts.

[Lentava-Heppa]

You take a walk in the fresh morning air. Many of the vendors who you saw leaving Undercity market last evening are now carrying their wares back there again.

You see Rastor's Weapons, a shop with a small sign Eating breakfast, come again in half an hour hanging on it's door. The Danbury's tavern you visited last evening. Ebbert's Outfitters, a shop with display windows hinting it of it selling wide variety of goods from ropes to chalk to signal whistles to tools grappling hooks... A low-end hostel called Potter's. A large shop called Bull and Bear armory. And the large Watchhouse at the opening leading away from the square.

However there seems to be nothing resembling a tailor.

[Darwin]

With a shrug of his shoulders Morrath leaves Delver's Square, heading towards North Market. He takes the same path which he used yesterday, heading back through Emerald hill and the temple district before the noise and ruckus from North Market reaches his ears.

Wasting no time asking around he starts wandering up and down the streets, looking for a tailor shop.

[Lentava-Heppa]

As you wander the streets of North Market you notice that finding a tailor takes surprisingly long time. While there are markets, stalls and the like everywhere most of them sell more daily products. Flour, bread, fish, meat, eggs and other items that are sold from stalls. In the end there aren't that many permanent shops.

Despite this not being as suitable place to find one as you originally could have thought you do eventually find a tailor. A sign depicting a thread being cut by scissors under text "A Cut Above" marks a very typical two story building with the first floor having been made of stone and the second of wood.

You step inside to see a spacious room with large spools of different colored cloths leaning against one corner. There is a door leading to the back room and a counter with nobody behind it. In the middle of the room stands a mounting supporting a wooden frame of a woman's upper body. The frame is clothed on a nearly finished dark blue bodice and a man not much older than you is kneeling next to it, finishing one of the last seams with needle and thread in his hands and a concentrated look on his face.

As you step in he looks at you, puts down the tools of his trade, stands up and greets you. "Good morning, sir. How may I help you?"

[Darwin]

Good morning, I'm looking for some new clothing He says as he pulls the not entirely new tunic he's been wearing since he left his home in Soelith, at the gentle pull a few stiches break and stumps of string falls to the floor.

I plan on visiting the noble's quarters as soon as possible, and I'd prefer to wear something a bit more suitable than this. I also require a set of more practical clothing, something like a cape and a sturdy shirt. He counts a few more minor details on his fingers. How much would this cost me, and how long is it going to take?