Thieves of Sharn[IC]

[dangerprawn]

The shining jewel of Breland, Sharn is a city that never sleeps. While the honest, hard-working folk labor and craft and fight and love during the day and rest when the dark comes, for others the setting of the sun is their rebirth from the little death. Blades reflect the moonlight, dark blood spills and cries are lost in the shadows. Here is the true Sharn, the face hid from the light of day. The power that moves without being seen. The thief that steals life.

---

The past two years the monstrous criminal family known as Daask has been hitting the Boromar clan. They have bled in the streets, bled in their shops, and bled in their homes. The Boromar patriach, Saidan, has had enough. He's ordered his intelligence expert Castar to come up with a permanent solution to the Daask problem. His solution begins with you.

You were approached one day by Castar and asked to join a new group he was putting together. Your mission has two objectives: First - hit Daask hard. Weaken them where it hurts. Take from them their resources, their lifeblood, their pride. Show them that nothing they have is safe, that there is no place they can hide. Second - earn back Boromar's lost respect. Strike fear into the city. Let the others know that the Boromar Clan is still the best.

---

After your initial meeting Castar told you to wait for his summons while he gathers together others that will be your teammates. A week passes, and late in the afternoon one day you hear his voice in your head. "House office. Korran-Thiven. Second bell tomorrow morning. Get into the Ward on your own."


A DC 19 Spellcraft check will allow you to recognize it as a Sending spell. If you do you may send a message back.

If there was something you wanted to do during the week, tell me about it in the OOC or PM me if it's secret shady stuff.

Also - Korran-Thiven is one of the Upper Ward's financial districts. The Boromar Clan has a heavy presence there and maintains a large mansion that they refer to as their office. It is not their private residence, but where they conduct their business. Second bell is about mid-morning; equivalent to our 8 o'clock or so. 24 hours, 6 bells. First one rings at 4am.

Entrance to the Upper Ward is restricted. Guards at the skyways check papers, and if you don't live there or have official or trade business there, you don't get it.

First task - Break into the Upper Ward, either through deceit, connections, or stealth. It is known that the entrance guards are warded against Enchantment magics, but are not totally shielded.

[CockroachTeaParty]

Cecilia was perusing the selection of food at the Commons plaza of Morgrave University when she received Castar's Sending spell. Recognizing it easily, she mentally replied to the gnome's missive.
Of course, Castar. I'll be there promptly. Cecilia d'Medani out.

The next day, after rousing herself and having a light breakfast at the House Medani enclave in Dragon Towers, the half-elf makes her way to the main skybridge marking the entrance to the Korran-Thiven district. She was not concerned about her chances of gaining entry; her status as a member of a Dragonmarked family opened many doors, and she didn't even consider the possibility that her business would be questioned.
Her glamerweave outfit, stylishly formfitting and alluring, shined like an eldritch rainbow in the morning light. Her House Medani signet brooch, gilded in fine electrum, was displayed proudly on the clasp of her traveling cloak, revealing the Basilisk for all to see. The only thing potentially questionable on her person is the longsword strapped to her belt; the ornamental appearance of the weapon might call into question its functionality, but it was quite deadly when wielded in anger.
Cecilia walks up to the checkpoint without stopping, and will be quite displeased should she be accosted.


Cecilia's going to try to enter, relying on her signet brooch. Should she still be stopped and questioned, she'll cooperate, showing her ID papers and explaining that she has official business with one of the 60 Families this morning. She will not be happy about it, though, and will make clear her annoyance and impatience with such treatment.
If necessary:
Diplomacy: [roll0]
Bluff (to conceal the true nature of her visit): [roll1]

[DrakeRaids]

Naev stood in the little apartment she had requisitioned for the night, going over the sending in her head. It really was the chance of a lifetime, ad a challenge like this didn't come around every day. It was nice to be recognized as well, them coming to her an all. She didn't bother responding to the send, but rather got to work.

She had be engaged in a few small time games here, dropping them would be inconvenient,but doable. She did want more information on this job however, things like pay, see, Naev kept, what she stole.

The team thing would be difficult too, she thought. Poisoning them right off the bat might be the best option, though her employers might not take nicely to it, they would get over it. She'd have to check her contacts, look for a nice latent drug. Hold it over there heads until the job was over.

These are the thoughts that went through her head as she went about her preparations. Going in and letting the world know where she went was so... barbaric. So she started first working on making some papers for one... Sarina Mills. A merchant, along with her husband. Going to offer her wares in person to a clinet. Yes, this would work nicely.

A disguise was next, but it was no problem. Such things where her specialty. A touch up here, a twist of that wonderful hat there, and before long, where the tiefling once stood was a pretty, older human woman, with olive colored skin, dark hair, perhaps starting to show some of her years in the cheeks.


All of that done, Naev finally stepped out, looking herself over one last time, and approached her meeting place. She stops at the checkpoint like a good little sheep, nothing more then another person out for the day.

Disguise: [roll0] two for my kit and 10 extra for my hat of disguise and another two from bluff syneregy minus two for being another race

Forgery: [roll1]

Bluff: [roll2]

[Naturax]

As daylight begins to kiss the eastern towers of Sharn, their shadows cast great beams are darkness across the length of the city. One of these strikes the uppermost level of the Korran-Thiven district, as it does every morning, preventing the polished surfaces of the estates and banks from glittering for another hour or so.

Already the city has begun to stir. Carriages float languidly from one balcony to another and the howling wind swallows the footsteps of those scurrying across great bridges to arrive at their workplaces before second bell. But no one notices, no one could possibly notice, a shadow within the shadows.

A sleek warforged as black darkness slowly ascends along the edge of the vast wall of the Upper Central Plateau, as if carried by the movement of the shadows themselves. A lieutenant of the Goldwings on hippogriff-back does a circuit of the Korran-Thiven from above, her glittering armour catching the light of day as she flits between the long shadows of the tallest towers. Yet even she, with keen eyes and magically-aided vision, does not detect the intruder. The warforged slinks over one of the great walls behind the offices of the Wayfinder Foundation and drops as slowly and silently as a leaf into the alley which, for a few moments yet, is spared the harsh scrutiny of daylight.

With footsteps that melt into cobblestones and an outline that melts into shadows, the unheard, unseen Shade slowly makes its way to the Boromar Clan house office, eager for the next challenge Castar will present.

Shade has used a charge from his Wand of Levitate to make his way over the walls of the district, relying on his proficiencies in stealth to remain unseen. Taking 10 in Hide or Move Silently gives a result of 27.


***

The one place in all of Sharn in which Shade chose not to hide its presence was one in which many of those present did not wish to be seen, much less identified. In the very bowels of the City of Towers, surrounded on four sides by filth, poverty, crime and desperation, on another by magma, and the last by the ruins of a long-dead civilization, it was no wonder that the Temple of the Six managed to prosper.

Here, Shade learned that there were many others with abilities that caused fear and isolation. Here, Shade learned that The Shadow had granted it the ability to see without being seen in the way that trolls were granted healing or that harpies were granted song. Here, surrounded by monsters of all stripes, Shade felt acceptance.

Thus, Shade could not prevent resentment when the call came. If Castar knew that his pet was fraternizing with the rank and file of the Daask, his reaction would be swift and predictable. But Shade did not fear discovery, for its eyes were the only eyes the Boromar Clan had in this place, and the information gleaned from the followers of the Dark Six was the chief reason that Shade had become indispensable.

Slipping into the darkness that the Cogs blessed its inhabitants with in excess, Shade mused, not for the first time, what it would be like to be free.

[Ryuuk]

It would still be two hours for the first bell. Two figures walked through the darkness, past the many temples and shrines of Sovereign Towers. An onlooker would have seen a young woman with pale skin and black hair, wrapped in a thick cloak. In front of her a large animal seemed to be on the prowl. It was almost impossible to see more then a vague outline, as it seemed to blend in with the shadows. However, as they walked past a streetlamp, the light would pass through it as if weren’t really there. But there were no onlookers. At this time of the day the few people that walked the streets knew better then then to stare at another traveler.

Seri knew where she had to go. She entertained herself by thinking of the possible tasks that Castar would have for her until the she spotted the shrine to the Traveler and the lone figure that stood next to it. He was armed and dressed like one of the guards from above. There was the man she was looking for.

The man finally noticed the hound and as it approached he reached for his sword. A hand stopped him and he heard a whisper in his ear. “Easy Sagmir, she’s with me. Sorry if I kept you waiting.” The man, shaking, tried to relax and slip his hand away.

“I see… and what will I be selling myself out for this time? Who’s blood will be on my hands?” He slowly turns around, Seri had already let go and was looking at the shrine. She smiled at him.

“Don’t be such a fatalist. There won’t be any notes on the Inquisitor about this, a possible employer just wanted to make things hard for me.” Her hound moves past Sagmir, leaving a cold chill in its wake. Seri kneels down and opens her palm. As it touches her, the hound seems to melt into her. “The less you know about it, the better for you. If it’ll ease your curiosity though, I’ll say that I’m to help bring things back to how they should be.” She stands up and shows Sagmir an open palm.

The guard hesitates, but in the end, decides it was for the best. He hands her his documents and keys. Seri nods “So kind of you.” She unhooks her cloak, revealing a chain shirt. As she looks over Sagmir, her armor begins to shift until it has become an identical copy of the guardsman’s. “As always, someone will stop by your apartment and give them back to you, along with your payment, in a couple of days. I hope you can continue to work with us. Enjoy your night off.”


---

At 5 to the second bell, Seri was outside the offices. She’d taken the least transited entrance and worked Sagmir’s lonely watch at one of the more out of the way exotic traders. She hadn’t seen another soul all morning.

She'll use Disguise Self when getting past the checkpoint, which would give a +15 net bonus on the check. Sagmir would be on House Tarkanan's payroll

[Rogue 7]

The message contacted Dress in his default state- asleep. He was recovering from a night out of drinking himself into unconsciousness- admittedly, something of a rare occurrence for him. Drinking usually meant other people, and that was something he was keen on avoiding, unless he was in a very good mood. He hadn't really been in what you could call a "good mood" last night, but the desire for booze was a strong one, and its siren call was difficult to ignore. Fortunately, he got the message rather clearly.

"Typical. Ask me to meet in the part of the city I hate going to unless on business, and not even giving me an in. I swear..."

He broke off, mumbling to himself as he looked around his small but well-furnished apartment, sun shining through the one small window that extended up to ground level. He pulled together his gear, grabbed a chunk of bread, and prepared to depart.

Leaving, he made his way through the hustle and bustle of Sharn as he always did- head up to take in his surroundings, but never looking anyone in the eye. That was relatively easy when you were a gnome. His clothes were nondescript and functional, and so he attracted little attention.

As he came up to the gate, he paused to observe, taking the chance to see if any magic guarded the door. If there was enough space, he could slip through invisibly quite easily. If not, well, that way involved a few more resources, but it was easily doable. He paused, hiding behind the nearest cover as he made his observations. How far apart were the guards, that he could get through without bumping into anyone? How many people were passing through? Were there enough that he could slip by while the guards were attending to more visible patrons? What spells were used that might deter invisible passers-by?

If the gate was too heavily guarded, well, that wasn't much of a problem. Walls were not much of an obstacle to him, and he could even make as much noise as he'd like- no one would hear a thing.


Casting Detect Magic

Depending on whether he thinks he can slip through the gate unnoticed- there's no divinations or abjurations cast on the gate, and the guards appear to be paying more attention to the people passing through- he'll cast invisibility and sneak past the guards, taking 10 on move silently for a 19. If that doesn't appear feasible- there are magical wards, the guards appear to be looking for intruders- he'll find an unoccupied spot on the wall, scout out for guards, and cast invisibility and spider climb and go in that way.


As he sneaked into the restricted area of the city, he wondered just what the job was for him. Another art heist? He hadn't been practicing all that much lately, he was worried he might be a little rusty. Who knew? This kind of job could be just what the doctor ordered- a chance to flex his magic and show off his skills.

[dangerprawn]

The two silver cloaked Royal Guardsman standing watch at the skyway detain Cecillia momentarily. "Apologies, Lady. But we must follow regulations. Your papers please." The guard quickly glances over your identificaiton and returns to attention. "Thank you, Lady." He listens with patience at her tirade and says nothing else, merely nodding to her as she finishes and pass through.

Soon after Cecilia goes through an older woman with dark hair, in somber but fine clothes approaches. The guard inspects her papers with more attention, though still passes her through.


---

The Boromar Clan mansion in Korran-Thiven stands out among the other buildings in the district. Instead of rising high into the air with dizzying spires, it squats low and flat, spreading itself out wide instead of tall. Some say this reflects the typical halfing's perspective. Others call it a shrewd maneuver on the part of Saidan Boromar, the head of the clan. They see it as a metaphor for the entire clan. People often forget about what they do not immediately see. And that's where Saidan wants to be; moving around behind the scenes, unseen until he chooses to strike.

The grounds are sprawling and well-manicured. Having real grass and trees at this level in the city costs a fortune to maintain; but then again everything is more expensive in the Upper Wards. If they didn't have the money to throw around, they wouldn't be here in the first place.

A single halfing clad in dark breeches and white buttoned shirt stands guard outside the door. At your entrance he simply opens the door and motions his head for you to enter. Inside the hall the marble floor has a thick, blue carpet running from the door to the double spiral staircase at the other end of the foyer. Standing near the base of the stairs, a few steps up to be on even level with you, is Castar. The Clan's head mage is tall for a halfling at nearly three and a half feet. He flips aside his white and silver trimmed cloak, revealing dark blue breeches and a tailored maroon shirt. He nods at you.

"Welcome to our offices. I'm pleased to see you're all on time. Lord Boromar would like to speak with you all." He glances over to a pair of halfling servants standing to the side and motions his head. They leave through a door and the strong smell of fresh baked bread wafts through. "If you will all walk with me to the library, I'll let him know you've arrived."


The Office Mansion (http://www.independent.co.uk/multimedia/archive/00025/stv1_25130g.jpg)

[Naturax]

Shade has the kind of personality that could suddenly stop a wild party. Dress would know.

Without sparing a glance for the others the black-plated warforged follows in step with Castar, though it already knows the way to the library. Shade was unable to hide its surprise, however, that others had been summoned here today. Clearly the living construct was used to working alone. However, it made no efforts to converse, not even introduce itself.

[CockroachTeaParty]

Cecilia follows Castar with a smile, all business and politeness. She gives everyone else a polite nod in greeting, but says little else. Her affiliation with House Medani is evident enough... as for what the Boromar Clan would have her do, that was yet to be revealed.

[Ryuuk]

Seri made no effort to hide the way she looked over the others. Any who answered her curious gaze would receive a playful smile as she excused herself "Oh, sorry, don't mind me.", before continuing as if nothing had happened. So this is who she'd be working with. She wondered how the proud basilisk would react to what was under the wrappings on her arm. Although, if she really was a basilisk, she must already know. The coy toy soldier was curious in its own way, but the little man and the hag seemed rather 'mundane'.

She follows Castar with some eagerness. She'd been waiting too many hours for this.

[Rogue 7]

Dress acknowledges any greeting with no more than a curt nod, and offers none of his own. He is very much there for business and nothing else, and makes this point abundantly clear with a withering glare at anyone who attempts to engage him in conversation. He is quiet and polite to his employer- this is the representative of the people who allow him to pursue his trade relatively unmolested. but no one else receives the same courtesy.

[dangerprawn]

Castar leads everyone into the next room, the low archway between the rooms causing Naev to duck her head. The library is a wide open space, the walls lined with shelves and racks of books, the cieling going up to at least ten feet. A large fireplace dominates the east end of the room and the blazing fire there warms the last of the morning chill. Low couches and sofas are scattered about the room, and a few high backed leather chairs are near the mantle.

The halfling mage walks over to the fireplace and speaks softly a word of power. The flames waver for a moment before shrinking down to the size of a cook fire. He glances back over his shoulder. "Lord Boromar doesn't like it too hot." He says. "Please, sit. The servants will be bringing food and drink in a moment, and I'll go see to Lord Boromar."

As he finishes speaking the two halfling servants emerge from the hallway with trays of cold meats, cheeses, breads and drinks. They place the trays down on a low table and stand ready to serve. Steam wafts from the coffee and tea service.

Castar nods and smiles. "A quiet group. Good." He bows slightly and says, "If you have any pressing questions...please hold on to them. I will return shortly with Lord Boromar and he will answer them." He nods again and walks back out to the hallway and goes up the stairs.


Spellcraft DC 16 to identify the spell. If you succeed, you recognize it as Control Fire, a simple first level Sorcer/Wizard Transmutation spell that adjusts flames, either making them more intense and bright or lowering them, even to extinguish them.

I thought there was a spell that did this...but couldn't find it. So I made it up. Anyone know if there is a spell that does this?

[CockroachTeaParty]

Cecilia takes a seat on one of the sofas, and a cup of tea from one of the halflings.
"Thank you."
She was not hungry, refusing the other snacks politely. The half-elf stares about the library with interest, drinking in the scenery, and observing the others summoned to the meeting with a discerning eye.


Spellcraft, for laffs:
[roll0]

[Naturax]

The warforged whose body seems to absorb light rather than reflect it only sits when bidden to do so. It looks about, unable to mask its discomfort at being stranded in the middle of a well-lit room.

Ignoring the offer of refreshments, it begins taking a minute to scrutinize each of the others that have been summoned by Castar, its gaze passing over the books that line the walls without interest. Shade's slow inspection begins with the half-elf, watching her every move and facial expression as though committing it to memory.

With nothing better to do at the moment, I'd like to think that Shade's silent gaze causes some discomfort. Maybe that'll give us some RP fodder. And, for reference, I'm trying to play Shade as though it has a negative charisma modifier, because it does.

[DrakeRaids]

Naev lets the enchantment that she had kept around her fall away, twisting the hat into the form of a green ribbon. Thinsg to do things to do, looks like there host was busy getting there act together, and it was nice to be needed, that was sure. Still waiting was irritating.

Patience, after all was not her chief virtue.

Either way, they where here so she might as well start trying to pull useful information from this new crew.

"Well well," Naev said with a genuine (looking) smile, "So I 'ssume you all here for this new job am I right? Whats your story? What makes you special enough to get in here?"

[Ryuuk]

The smell was a pleasure to the senses as after 6 hours of guard duty. She asks for a good portion of meat and a bit of everything else. Her plate is empty mere moments later. After basking in a warm cup of coffee she takes not of the hag who was not really a hag's questions.

"Well, it seems bold to ask something like that without opening up first. I will say this though, yes, I'm here due to Castar's offer, I'm here because I have an axe to grind, and apparently I'm the only one of my friends who's actually eager to try and decapitate the Daask." She takes another drink, enjoying every bit of it? With a smile, she points to the interviewer, "What about you?"

[Rogue 7]

Dress remains silent, though he does accept some cakes. He sits on a couch, his hands folded in front of his face, glaring slightly.

"Let's just hear this job."

[CockroachTeaParty]

Cecilia ***** an eyebrow at Naev's questions.
"I'm here on official House business. I'm a licensed personal security professional."
The half-elf smiles politely, folding her hands in her lap.
Certainly a colorful group. And so friendly. I would expect nothing less from the Boromars.

[dangerprawn]

The two halflings serve the food and drinks and then bow and leave the library. A moment later you can hear someone coming down the stairs. Lord Boromar pauses at the entrance to the room and barely glances over at everyone. He's dressed in dark blue breeches and matching shirt, a thin gold chain hanging out of one of the pockets of his black vest. His short black hair is shot through with grey, though his blue eyes are still clear and focused. He walks in and moves over to the mantle, taking a seat in one of the high-backed chairs.

Castar follows behind him and stands next to the chair. Lord Boromar turns to the fire a moment and nods before turning back to everyone assembled. "I am...glad...you all have arrived on time and in such discreet fashion. The watch has issued no alerts this morning for intruders, so I believe my confidence in you has not been misplaced." He glances over at the food. "I trust you all have had your choice." He says as he motions towards the tray. Castar walks over and picks up an apple and slices it, placing the pieces on a small plate.

"The purpose of our gathering is to discuss entering into a mutually beneficial arrangement between yourself and my House." He says, munching on a slice of apple. "You all possess...unique...and varied talents that are particularly applicable to the current situation." He pauses a moment to eat another slice.

"You will be tasked with certain goals that need to be attained so we may begin to redress the order of balance within our great city. She is hurting, wounded by a monstrous infection that threatens to throw all our lives into upheaval. My House requires your skills in this matter, and you will be greatly compensated for your services." He says, regarding a last apple slice before eating it.

He leans in close and stares, his eyes hard. "To sum up and express the necessity in brief; Find Daasks' weak spots and cut their legs out from under them. When they are lying on the ground bleeding, wondering how this could have happened, we will slit their throats and remove their plague from our city."

[Ryuuk]

Seri

As Lord Boromar enters, Seri gives the tiefling a look that says that she'll be wanting an answer later. It was only fair after all, and if everyone was still so set on keeping up the charade that things were fair, then it was only natural.

As their employer spoke, Seri was drawn more and more into the speech, growing more excited. It finally reached its peak when he stopped beating around the bush. She was going to be paid for decapitating Daask... Beautiful. Here smile is genuine, at least as far as a room with such individuals would be willing to accept.

She humbly bows her head before her employer, "My liege, I for one would be honored to serve your house in this endeavor..."

[Naturax]

Your intentions are most clear, Shade rasps. Apparently whoever created this warforged spent little time on its ability to communicate. Would you like us to decide how best to proceed or do you have particular targets in mind already?

[dangerprawn]

Saidan Boromar looks at Shade. "Castar has identified a number of possibilities for you to consider first." He glances at the halfling and Caster steps forward.

"There's no milk runs here. Once Daask knows that we're after them they won't wait for you to strike. With that in mind we've allocated one of our safe houses for your use in the lower plateau, in the Firelight." He pauses a moment. "Once we've started don't count on going back to your old life until this is seen through. I guarantee that Daask will do everything they can to keep what they've stolen."

"Your first priorities should be retaking what they've already took from us. But they'll expect that. So were going to ignore those for now, and strike where they don't imagine we'll go."

He steps back and brings his hands together and raises them apart, glowing lines of force shimmering into being. They solidify and arrange themselves into a three dimensional map of Sharn. He releases his hands and the magical construct hangs there. "They operate mostly in Khyber's Gate and have slowly taken over parts of Lower Dura." He says, and the map zooms in to show the Malleon's Gate area of Lower Dura. "We've identified a warehouse here that they use to produce and store their drugs, mostly dreamlily and heartflow." A black star appears on the map.

He waves his hand and the vision scrolls, showing another part of Lower Dura. "This is a boarding house that their street thieves use, for their pickers and second story men. It's really just a crash house for the unskilled trash that Daask lets wander the streets to harass the people." Another black star glows on the map. "It would not be a tragedy if something catastrophic happened to the building, especially if the tenants were unfortunate enough to be stuck inside."

"While the drugs and street thieves are an integral part of Daask's operations, we also want to strike at the leaders of Daask themselves. We have received intelligence that the head of Daask's cutthroat assassins for hire is actively looking for new recruits. Keshta, a filthy gnoll that is as cowardly as he is dangerous, has established a semi-permanent residence at the Shamukaar. Kill him." The illusion shifts and shows the Khyber Gate ward and a third black star appears to mark the building.


OOC knowledge about the districts, or you can read the descriptions in Sharn: City of Towers.

Firelight / Upscale red light district.

The Firelight district caters to clients seeking entertainment of an intimate nature, as well as hardcore and casual gamblers. While Sharn's other red-light districts, Sharn's Welcome and Dragoneyes, are dangerous and disreputable places most respectable citizens wouldn't dream of visiting, Firelight has somehow managed to maintain a reputation as a socially acceptable place to come and have fun, whatever type of fun one might be interested in having. Crime is much better controlled in Firelight than in the other red-light districts, so customers are less likely to become victims. Changelings control most of the bordellos here, as they do in Dragoneyes, but they employ members of almost all races.


Shamukaar / This is the largest and most successful tavern in the region, and it is the safest place to deal with members of Daask. Shamuskaar is simultaneously a slaughterhouse, a butcher shop, a restuarant, and a tavern. It caters to Droaam immigrants, a category that includes many different specis: ogres, gnolls, harpies, minotaurs, and even medusa can be found at the bar.

Despiter the monstrous nature of its patrons, Shamukaar is one of the safeest places in Khyber's Gate. Even the monsters of Daask recognize the need for a neutral ground and a safe haven, and Shamukaar serves that purpose. Unless provoked beyond measure, a resident of Khyber's Gate will not start a fight in Shamukaar. And if anyone does start a fight, all other patrons unite together to subdue the aggressor.

[CockroachTeaParty]

Cecilia sits back and watches the illusory map with interest. She moves forward a bit in her seat before speaking.
"I'm game for whatever objective the group would have us achieve first, but I'll put my vote in for visiting this Keshta. Infiltration and assassination are my meat and mead, so to speak."

[Rogue 7]

Dress fiddles a bit before speaking up.

"Infiltration is definitely my specialty, much less so on the assassination part. I can do it, but I'm sure there are those more skilled at it."

He had chuckled at the comment about not going back to his old life. He was a career thief, and he worked more or less permanently for these people. What were they expecting him to do?

"Anyways, I think we'll need a bit of time to plan out these operations. Let's make these people dance to our tune.

[Ryuuk]

Seri

Seri the intricate map with interest. Once the three black stars are in place, Seri eyes them carefully. "Murdering Keshta sounds like a challenge. It might make getting to the storages and safehouses that much more complicated. It would send a very clear message though, the Daask would know for certain that we exist, even more so if we do it inside Shamukaar and walk out..." She smiles. It was doable, though her years with her second family told her it was also reckless. Of course, they could always lure the dog out of his den, but where was the fun in that? A shiver seems to run down her back. This had been worth the wait.

[Naturax]

Removing Keshta would be a mighty blow to the Daask, Shade offers in a flat, analytical tone, and Cavallah would receive our message loud and clear.

But we do not simply want to invite retribution. We want to sew confusion and shatter morale, Shade continued without pause. To truly 'cut their legs out', we should attack all three targets simultaneously.

Both the warehouse and the flophouse can be taken out by one or two of us with quick, brutal tactics, such as fire. Keshta likes to keep surrounded, so an individual skilled with poison or enchantment will have a much greater chance of success than five of us attempting a coordinated attack.

With planning and finesse we strike hard and fast. Cavallah will react rashly, leaving opportunities for us to twist the blade.

[Rogue 7]

The gnome's eyes light up just a bit at this statement.

"...I like it."

[dangerprawn]

Castar raises an eyebrow. "All three at once? Bold...but a cunning strategy." He holds his hands apart for a moment and then brings them together. The map shrinks down and disappears. He reaches into his vest and pulls out three egg sized emerald gems and places them on the table. "Each has a detailed illusion of the target area programmed into it. The safehouse is a small two-story house in Firelight, right on the strip. Enough strange people visit that district that your own presences shouldn't raise alarm or undue notice."

Saidan looks up at Castar, and the mage steps back. "From the moment you leave this house you are not to contact either myself, Castar, or any other House member openly." He glances at Shade. "Unless you have prior regular dealings with the House, then those may continue in order to maintain appearances. We will have people near the house, purely for precautionary measures. If you have need to contact Castar, hang a red light in the second story window. Our agents will note it and notify Castar, while the light will go unnoticed as unusual in that district." He rises to his feet.

"Gentlemen...ladies...I wish for success, and pray for luck." He bows and grins. "But I always plan for the worst. Castar." He says, nodding to the mage. Castar bows and stays while Lord Boromar leaves the room.

"We can offer assistance with some things. Equipment requisition, intelligence information, those sort of things." He watches Saidan as the older halfling slowly climbs up the stairs. "Unless there's something you can immediately think of that you need, I'll come find you once these tasks are done."

[CockroachTeaParty]

Cecilia always enjoyed a challenge, and a simultaneous attempt on all three objectives was almost too good to pass up. "Hmm... Thank you, Castar. I would only ask for any item or device that would allow for a quick escape, ideally to be used for a quick getaway upon completion of an objective. A one-time use item would be fine, but if not I would gladly return it. Anything that emulates a Dimension Door spell or something similar should suffice.
...
Would it be possible to allow us to remain in here in the comfort and safety of this manor to make some initial plans?"

[dangerprawn]

"Unfortunately, the office has other business this morning. It would be prudent if you were not found here." Castar says. "However, there is an item that would satisfy your need. It should be in your safehouse by the time you all arrive."

"If there are no more requests...?" He says, standing by the fireplace.

[Ryuuk]

Seri

The toy soldier definitely didn't seem so coy now. Hitting all five at once... Much more subtle to have teams of 1 or 2 at each location, but very clear to the Daask higher ups. Looks like there was more to the metal man then she thought.

"Thank you, an escape mechanism is plenty already." With a smile and a cordial gesture she stands as well.

[Naturax]

Shade stands as it answers Castar. I will contact you should we have any difficulty procuring any specialized equipment that may be necessary.

The black-plated warforged fixes the rest of the group with an impassive gaze. I propose that we rendezvous at the safe house in order to commence detailed planning. If we each take our own route our arrival should not arouse any suspicion.

[dangerprawn]

Caster pulls a small metal ring out from a pocket and puts on the table. There are 5 small silver keys on the ring. "Good luck, gentlemen and laides. We'll be in touch."


*** End Scene ***

Firelight.

The third bell rings and half the Strip is still just waking up. A few small food vendors serve lunch to the morning crowd while the rest of the district begins getting ready for the nights work.

The safehouse is in a small three story building, comprising the two floors above an all night cafe. The only entrance from the street is a narrow door immediately opening up to stairs ascending. An alley runs beside the building and behind it a fire escape leads up to the second floor entrance.

Inside the house the second floor is a wide open room, with a large hearth in one corner, sofa's and chairs in front of it. A pantry and kitchen top is in another corner, while chairs surround a large table in the middle of the room. A small chest of drawers sits next to the table. A pair of windows face the main street, a hooded lantern with dark glass next to them on the floor.

Upstairs are small, separate sleeping rooms. Each has a single key hanging on a chain around the doorknob and inside are minimal but comfortable furnishings. An iron spiral staircase leads to the roof.


It basically meets any domestic, non-magical need you have. Wood for cooking, stocked pantry, etc. Whether or not you sleep or eat here is up to you, but the place has got everything you'd need for an extended period of time (a few weeks).

I'd like to do most of the planning IC, though I know some stuff is faster/easier in OOC

Here's a picture of what the outside kinda looks like. Your door is the first one on the left, with the gold lettering on it.
Outside Cafe (http://image22.webshots.com/22/6/77/69/197067769sbWVUH_fs.jpg)

[Ryuuk]

Seri

As everyone is ushered out, Seri nods to the others. "I'll see you in Firelight in an hour then, there's somethings I have to take care of first." Without another word, she splits, using the trick she used before to leave the district if the guard pays as close attention to everyone leaving as they do to those who enter.

She arrives at the estate in the Dragon Towers soon enough. She takes the entrance she always took, the one from below. She enters an old bookstore in Granite Hall, the clerk knew her and let her go into the back where a pair of associates, both marked as she was, stood guard. "I accepted, just coming to gather my things.", she said in nonchalant tone. The pair just gave each other a look and let her start the long climb up.

She had a scant few possessions, a few used scrolls, her savings, a few history books, it didn't take her long to gather then. She spent most of her time in her small spartan room writing a note. Once she was finished and read it to herself, it occurred to her that there was a good chance she wouldn't see this room again. She gave it one last look, a basic rectangular bed, a bed stand with a half burned candle, bare windowless walls... It had been a good home, the house had been very generous. She leaves the note on top of Sagmir's documents on her bed and, after a deep breath, closes the door behind her.



I took the offer. Until its over, I'll cut all formal links with
the house, as was discussed. I'll be in one of their safe
houses in Firelight, in case I'm needed. I'll come back alive.

Thank you for everything

The byeshkalzah

---

Firelight

Seri is sitting at the dinner table, her hands behind her head and tilting back against the wall. At her feet rests a large feline, or at least something in the image of an animal. It's all black and insubstantial, as if made of shadows, but anyone close to it feels as if it where stalking them. Its unnerving.

"So... All 3 at once. Any volunteers or should we draw straws to decide?"

[Naturax]

Shade is already in the safehouse when the others arrive. Having no need to see to comforts of any physical nature, the kitchen and bedrooms have been left untouched.

However, the table is covered with sheets of parchment, and the warforged has activated one of the crystals Castar gave them and is sketching a detailed diagram from the illusion. It continues to do so as the group converses, contributing without looking up from its work.

Seri, I believe we should chose the task best suited to our talents. I believe that I am capable of dispatching the warehouse alone, though that is not necessarily the most efficient use of my talents considering I do not know what the rest of you bring to the table.

So that you are all aware, I specialize in infiltration and reconnaissance. My construction allows me to escape detection and enter places most can't. I plan to prepare explosives of some kind, deposit them in the warehouse, and leave before activating them.

If any of you believe that I am better suited to another task, I would like to hear your reasoning, it says without a hint of challenge in its voice.

[CockroachTeaParty]

Cecilia reclines on a chair, casually examining the crystaline blade she carries with her. As it moves through the air, it makes the faintest humming sound.
"You know what you are capable of better than anyone else, Shade. I would trust the warehouse job to you without a second thought. As for myself, I think I'd like to pay Keshta a visit. I'm good at getting in, getting out, and getting the job done, whatever the task may be. I'll leave the poor gnoll with a grin on his face and a red smile on his neck before he realizes what's going on. However, I wouldn't mind backup on this one. It helps to have a distraction, and someone at your back if things get dicey. Not that I expect them to. The inhabitants of the Cogs do not have an eye for subtlety; they'll be like putty in my hands."
There is a smug confidence in her tone, and her eyes gleam with promised violence to come. It would appear she is more than a pretty face.

[Rogue 7]

The gnome claims a small bedroom on the ground floor, one with as few windows as possible. He carries minimal personal items- a few sets of clothes and a few small pouches of tools. Taking his room, he waits for everyone to assemble in silence, again offering minimal responses to questions.

"I'm a thief by trade, so the warehouse mission is probably my area of expertise as well- I usually take things out, but putting something in shouldn't be too hard. The same is probably true for the arson mission, but there's more of a chance of combat, so I'd prefer to avoid that one if I can."

[Ryuuk]

Seri

After stretching, Seri levels her chair and crosses her arms over the table. "Be careful with that line of thought Cecilia. Khyber's Gate is place where the strong rule, where no weakness goes unpunished. Shamukaar is the one establishment where people can rest and feel even marginally safe. Anyone who breaks this peace will have the entire crowd rally against them. Of course, if you're used to such consequences, then pardon if my words are redundant."

"I'll admit I'm not one for subtlety. I have a few tricks with disguises, but I don't work by hiding. Instead I work through people, they tend to do what I want them to do, one way or another. I would like to see Keshta's death, and I'm confident I could find a way to get a good fight going as a distraction. If we where to have to fight our way out though..." In a swift motion, she brings an axe to the table. "I'll happily oblige. It's nice to cut loose every once in a while, so if we needed someone to keep the grunts in the safe house while it burned, I'd be up for it too."

[CockroachTeaParty]

Cecilia smiles a wicked smile at Seri's council.
"Safety is only an illusion. It takes very little to break it. I'm not too worried about a tavern full of goblinoids, gnolls, orcs, and ogres. It's within their nature to fight, and I'm sure this... 'establishment' is no stranger to brawls and the like. We should do some reconnaissance, of course, but I'm not too worried."

[Naturax]

I am familiar with some details regarding the warehouse that you will find useful, Dress.

Shade points at the diagram it has sketched from the illusion. On Sul, materials are transported into the warehouse, they are processed throughout the week, and then the Daask picks up the drugs on Sar. While there are guards stationed both inside and outside the facility at all times, security is tightest when supplies are moved in or out. Many of the workers frequent Sully's Galleon, a tavern across the street, and they might be able to provide more information.

If you are more comfortable with the warehouse, Dress, than I will take care of the boarding house instead. If Seri and Cecilia take out Keshta, then there remains the question of what role Naev will take.

And on to the details. First and foremost, when shall we strike?

Secondly, in the interest of efficiency and discretion, perhaps we can share our skills. If one of, say, Seri or Cecilia were to scour the patrons at Sully's for information instead of Dress, all the less attention would be paid to him when he arrives to actually do the job.


For reference today is Zor, in the second week of Rhaan.

[DrakeRaids]

Naev nodded as paused to sinkin to thought, Keshta would be harder, more challenging. More fun certainly, but going after him increases her chance to be stabbed exponentially. The warehouse would be easier, and more of a cut and dry job. A match for her skills to be sure, but it wouldn't expand them, still it would be entertaining to say the least, pulling the fools along till the realized what happened.

That was her favorite part really. The look on their faces.

"Why should I have to choose?" Naev said with an easy smile, "I can help with both. My skills at infiltration and sabotage should be invaluable on both occasions, and unless we perform the jobs on the same there should be no problem. In fact, why are we splitting up in the first place? Other then information gathering it makes more sense to consolidate our strength and lash out at one, then take the other."

[Naturax]

Simple, Shade replies coolly, despite the criticisms leveled at his plan. We want to catch them by surprise. Even minutes after the first attack we can expect any holding of value that the Daask possesses to be on alert. I'd much rather carry out my mission when the guards are overconfident as opposed to looking for trouble, which is why we must time all three objectives to occur at precisely the same time.

Also, this is an opportunity for us to prove ourselves to our employer. We can demand much higher pay if we do this in a way that sends the intended message.

[Ryuuk]

Seri

During Shade's monologues, Seri would give her full attention and nod along. She was rather surprised, pleasantly surprised. It was as if he'd been made for this... She smiles. She was starting to like the metal man. "If there's a heavier guard during Sul and Sar, then we either act tomorrow or wait until Mol at the earliest. Four days should be long enough."

"Odds are I won't be of much use in hitting the warehouse if its meant to be discreet, so let me visit Sully's tonight and see what I can learn from the patrons."

[Naturax]

After the discussion has concluded, Shade wastes no time in making its way into the Cogs. While precautions are taken to leave the safe house without being seen, once underground Shade has no compunctions about being made. In fact, the living construct wanted to be seen coming from a long way away. In essence, Shade was carrying a white flag.

This is why the warforged did not expect any resistance when it entered the Shamukaar. Making no pretense at patronizing the establishment, Shade simply took a moment to locate, identify, and approach the individual it sought: the dwarf called Megar. Shade knew enough about the inner workings of the Daask to expect that someone would act as an intermediary between the rabble and Keshta himself. Megar was the one tasked with making sure that the gnoll lieutenant did not waste his time on the weak or incompetent.

The Shadow has guided me here, Shade states, as though that would explain everything.

Using Quick Reconnoiter to absorb as much information as possible regarding any security measures that are in place, and other useful information that would pertain to the task of assassinating Keshta. Shade is attempting to be subtle about it, however, and keep up the guise of looking for work instead of scouting for the enemy.

[dangerprawn]

The varied monstrous patrons of Shamukaar barely glance up as Shade approaches the dwarf. Sitting alone at a table by the hearth, the ugly looking fellow grunts and gives Shade the once over. "Huh. Wouldn't expect to see you here. Old Boromar not doing it for you these days, eh?" He grins and exposes a blackened tooth smile. "I suppose you could work, though you're not very damn subtle are ye, coming down here for all creation to see?"

He leans back in his chair and scratches at his mass of knotted hair that hangs down over his shoulders. "If'n you want to see Keshta...I suppose that could be arranged." His eyes harden as he stares at you. "But don't go tryin anything slick. We got more eyes watchin' here than you can see." He grins. "Go up those stairs. Speak to the guard in the hallway. Tell em Megar said Keshta wants to see ya."


Due to the monstrous nature of the patrons, it's not easy to distinguish which ones are working for Keshta, keeping an eye out for trouble. Make a few spot checks to see if you can notice which ones they are.

[Ryuuk]

Seri

After the meeting, Seri retires to her room for a moment. She sits down on the bed and takes a few moments to gather herself. She was to go to Sully's, but what could she do once there? Time was important, and it would be best if she came back with information that Shade hadn't already gleamed... She sighs and lays down, letting Miala join in on the ground besides her and running her hand through its cold inky substance.

They already had a good idea of the building structure thanks to the illusion they'd been provided with. Likewise, they knew when to expect more security, and it seemed acting during one of those days would cause the most damage to The Daask's operations...

She'll keep watch then. She'll could make her way to the tavern and take a seat near a window that faced the warehouse. Watch who enters, watch who leaves... More importantly, how they did it. She wondered if they sold on the spot? Probably not, it seemed like an unnecessary risk, but maybe... Maybe if she got talking with one of the workers, if she got him to trust her, or at least got him to want her to trust him.

She sits up and turns to the mirror. Her sisters had made fun of her skin, too pale they said, too soft, too frail. At least this had been the case, until her mark matured, now it simply gave the illusion of frailty. She'd learned this was enough to fool most of the 'civilized' though. She shook her head, it was pathetic really.

She sat up. Before the mirror, her armor slowly shifted into something more fitting for Lower Dura. Something that wouldn't draw too much attention, but at the same type helped set the bait. Once satisfied, she takes a few pieces of silver and gold, readies her axe and dones her cloak. It would be a long night.

Alright, she'll go to the tavern and do as was said above. Take a seat by the window and watch the warehouse for waiting for the workers to to come over. In the meantime, she'll try to eavesdrop any valuable information. Once she's sure someone useful is in the tavern she'll try to get on someone's good side. She'll appear as someone who's looking for Dreamlily.

Gather Information: [roll0]
Time: [roll1] (Hopefuly she'll be able to repeat this check multiple times)

As for befriending a worker, she'll take the following actions advancing if the previous one is proving futile:

-> Bait them (18 Natural Cha should do something)
-> Diplomacy
-> Charm Person (Hexing and Calling the Dark Companion if it can be done discreetly)

Relevant modifiers are +13 Bluff, +14 Diplomacy and +16 Intimidate (though I shouldn't need to fall on this for the task at hand)

[dangerprawn]

Seri waits at the table for a few hours before a group of humanoids emerge from the alley on the side of the warehouse. While the building has a front door, it appears as though no one uses it. Two of the workers go down the street while the other one comes into the bar. A large, ugly half-orc catches Seri's eye. He looks at her, does a double take, and then tries to act smooth as he takes his ale over to her table. "'Ello beautiful..." He says, turning a chair around backwards and straddling it. "Never seen you 'round here before."

The half-orcs name was Grup and it only took a few drinks to loosen up his tongue. "Lookin' for the flowers? You don't want none of that slop they sell in the streets." He dips into his pocket and pulls out a small vial of iridescent liquid. "This is the pure stuff...and since I'm such a nice guy, I'll give it to you for only half of it's worth...four of the kings head."

The drug bought, he moves in closer. "How'd I get that? Let's say I got special connections. I could get you more if we got to be good friends..." Grup says and leans in for a kiss. While he's blocking you from the rest of the patrons a quick Charm Person discourages him from more amorous ambitions. He opens up. "What's inside? Ah, nothin but a pair of grumpy old gnolls that got stuck there cus they pissed off Keshta. If you want some more I can get it for you, no sweat. Just wait here a minute love."

Grup stands, none too steadily, and walks out the bar. He heads back across the street and ducks into the alley.


I figure you've spent about 6gp so far. You can Charm him before he actually kisses you; I wouldn't make you suffer that. :smallwink:

You can leave now with what you've gotten, try and trail him and watch how he gets in, or do something else.

[CockroachTeaParty]

Cecilia

It seemed everyone knew what they were doing, and it never hurt to be too careful, especially when planning a job. What was the rush? Plodding blindly forward was liable to get oneself killed.

Cecilia slips into a room and alters her wardrobe somewhat, dispensing anything eye-catching, such as her silk scarves and glamerweave. She dons her darkweave outfit, then wraps a number of bland, dirty, nondescript rags around herself and a plain brown hooded cloak. Some dust here, some dirt there, and suddenly even her face looked less attractive, and hopefully less recognizable. Her disguise complete, she slips out of the safe house as quiet as a shadow, and quickly makes her way to the Cogs. Khyber's Gate was her destination, her half-elven ears keen to pick up any useful tidbits of information, especially where the doomed gnoll Keshta was concerned.

Most of her magical equipment is still on her person, concealed beneath her shabby clothing. If need be, it would be simple enough to discard the rags, and enjoy the full stealthy delights provided her darkweave. Her sword was the hardest thing to conceal, but it was not uncommon for people to traverse the Cogs armed: it never hurt to be careful, especially so far beneath the eyes of the City Watch.

She begins stopping by rat markets and winesinks, dark drug grottoes and forges, under the guise of a low-ranking, unmarked half-elf affiliated with House Lyrandar. Cargo shipments on galleons and airships are her primary concern, but she does need to know what's going where, especially to a certain establishment favored by a certain gnoll...


Gather Information! [roll0]
Time it takes: [roll1]
Disguise checks are to be rolled in secret, traditionally. She's only changing minor details about herself, so she's got a +12 modifier to the roll, with another +2 when she's acting in character (which will be pretty much the entire time she's snooping around)

[Ryuuk]

Seri

As Grup's face draws nearer, Seri lefts her left hand and stops his lips with her index finger. For a moment, her right arm tenses up and she looks into his eyes. The markings that she kept hidden under cloth bandages grew warm. "You're already a very good friend my dear..." She gives him a smile, and takes a mental note of everything that comes out of his mouth.

Maintaining the show, Grup's quick exit is met with a sigh, her hand resting on her left arm and a dreamy look as she follows him with her eyes. Once he's in the alley, she stands up and leaves the tavern, waiting for him at it's entrance. Once he comes out she calls him over. If he comes back with more of the flower, she'll eagerly buy it off of him. "Thank you... I may need more in a few days, when I've... gotten the money. If this is really as good as you say though, I might need much more... IT would make a lot of people happy, and I could make it worth your while... How can I reach you?"

If the charm worked, then I'm hoping he'll be willing to help out a good friend. Whoever does the warehouse could use him as a way in. We contact him before the attack, baiting him on the possibility of getting a very good profit and a little something extra, and sneak in when he does. It might be useful.

Also, we've got two doses of Dreamlily, that might come in handy too.

[dangerprawn]

Cecilia

The dirty and disheveled rags of a discreet half-elf bring no suspicious to anyones eyes in the dank of Khybers Gate. Eager to get in good with the House, merchants speak easy about what they consider mere shop talk. The Shamukaar puts in orders all across the district to feed the many tastes of it's varied clients. Every day some type of delivery is made, from vegetables and fresh fish to barrels of ale.

On Sul the tavern receives their large weekly order from many different suppliers. Liquors, exotic and rare animals, even their laundry service. Many workers and laborers are going in and out of the building in the early hours before the first bell.


How's that work for what she was looking for? I took it to mean general & specific information on how the tavern gets its supplies. If you want to know more specifics about Keshta you'll need to roll again.

Also, if you cast Disguise Self you'll get a +10 bonus on your Disguise check. If you simply forgot about it and want to do it, go ahead and figure that it's something she would have done.


Seri

Grup smiles and says, "I'm here most of the time when I get off work." He nods towards the tavern. "Round bout fourth bell." He grins at her, slowly glancing up and down. "You need to find ol Grup...you know where to look."

[Naturax]

Shade silently obeys, not wasting any time to actually patronize the establishment. This should not seem out of character for those that recognize the warforged, for Shade has no social tendencies, no need for food and drink, and likely does not grasp the concept of recreation.

Have a bunch of spot checks:




Ugh. I finally find the time to post and myth-weavers has gone down, so I can't look up Shade's sheet to find his spot check modifier.

Please roll on my behalf: http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheetview.php?sheetid=173581




Here's Shade's plan: go and do as told, and have a brief conversation with Keshta. I realize that Shade is hardly an actor, so I'm going to spend an Action Point right now to allay any suspicions about ulterior motives. In actual fact, Shade is curious in hearing what the Daask is hiring for, and how much they are paying, so it shouldn't be too much of a stretch.

Shade is only using mundane means of scouting: simply relying on Quick Reconnoiter for zillions of spot checks, also sense motive. Shade will not cast a single spell, not even detect magic, as the first priority is not doing anything suspicious or setting off any alarms.

After the conversation, Shade is just going to leave and report back to the others. This time, however, Shade is going to take serious precautions to make sure there is no one following it back to the safe house: lots of sneak checks, and a long, complicated route up to the surface.

[Ryuuk]

Seri

Slipping the vial out of view, Seri nods gently, looking down. "I'll see you soon then, take care Grup." Looking up, she gives him a teasing smile. "In a few days, at most." She turns and fades into the crowd.

For now, she'll return to the hideout and drop of the vials. There should still be some hours of daylight left, so she might do something else before turning in. Maybe take a look at the safehouse, since its in firelight too, but I'll post that later.

[dangerprawn]

Celia

The Shamukaar isn't the only place in Khybers Gate that serves alcohol, only the best known and cleanest. In the dank alehouses and dirty underground drug dens people drink and loosen their tongues, speaking about things they shouldn't.

A besotted bugbear in a filthy dreamlilly den tells Celia an interesting story.

"I ushed to work for that mangy gnoll." He says, his words slurred. "Did everything he told me too. Said I was doin good things for Daask." He takes another drink of some liquid in a dark glass. "Then one day I came into his room, cus I was reportin on a mission he'd sent me to do. Surprised him. He was cookin up some awful smellin brew. I barely saw what it was before he snarled and rushed me out. Nearly killed me on the spot, but I ran away."

He takes another drink. "I never got a good look at what was goin into the potion...but I could smell em." He sniffs. "Always had a good nose. The stuff he was mixin...it was common stuff for an antidote, or antivenom. But instead of a poison base...he was using silver."

He glances around and whispers. "I think he's allergic to silver, or got some freak weakness about it. Only reason I can think of for making an anti-silver potion."

Shade

One of the patrons at the bar catches your eye, a female hobgoblin. She quickly looks away when she sees you looking at her. The stairs lead to a long hallway with many doors on either side. At the end of the hallway is a single window.

Standing about halfway down the hall is a gnoll, dressed in dented and piecemeal metal armor. A barbed glaive rests against the wall he's leaning on, but as you come up the stairs he quickly stands up and grabs the handle. He watches you as you approach and only opens the door after hearing the words Megar told you.

The room inside is a spacious area, with tables and couches and a fireplace in the wall. To the right is a closed door. Keshta is sitting on the couch eating when you come in. He raises an eyebrow at you and then chuckles.

"Either you're here to join Daask and betray Saidan...or you're working for him and he sent you here." He laughs. "Doesn't matter. We'll play his game. Normally this is when I'd tell you all about what we're doing here, talk about what you can bring to Daask." His eyes glint. "But I already know what you're capable of, so instead I'm going to offer you a chance to prove that you've left Saidan for real."

He tosses a bone down on the plate sitting on a low table. There are half a dozen other bones already there, stripped of their meat and licked clean. He stands up. "There's a halfling downstairs. Red hair, chain shirt, usually sitting by himself. The fool thinks I don't know he's a spy for Saidan."

"Kill him. Then I'll know I can trust you." He pauses. "But don't do it here. Wait till he leaves, then bring me his head."


There's no windows in his room. Glancing at Keshta when you first walk in you notice that he carries two kukris concealed in his wide belt sash.

[Naturax]

Shade replies calmly. A plant that doesn't know it's been made is more valuable alive than dead, as it is a singularly reliable way to feed disinformation to the enemy. The Daask has nothing to gain by killing the informant, and in fact such an act would provide useful feedback to Saidan about how much is known about his intelligence network.

I'd be doing a favour to the Boromars if I did kill the halfling. You would then know that I am an enemy of the Daask by seizing such an easy opportunity to seal a huge security leak in the Boromar Clan's web of spies. Shade lets this hang in the air for a long moment, making no move to leave.

I am not playing games, the warforged concludes. I am here to do business.

[dangerprawn]

Keshta smiles. "Daask may have nothing to gain, but I do. Daask loses some in Saidan's little cat and mouse game...but Saidan also learns that you killed one of his spies." He grins and sits back down on the couch.

"That's the purpose. You prove your loyalty to me, not Daask, and cut ties with Saidan in an unmistakable manner. I know you pride yourself on your logic; the problem is you think I'm playing by his rules."His eyes glint in the firelight. "We know more about your operations than you think."

[Naturax]

If Shade knew how to shrug, it would. Instead, it nods impassively. Consider the halfling dealt with. I will return with his head.

Unless Keshta says something else, Shade simply leaves. On the way out, the warforged drops a few coins on Megar's table, but makes no comment and in fact does not so much as slow down on the way to the exit.

Here's the plan: blend into the shadows and wait for as long as it takes for the halfling to leave. Then, follow the halfling to somewhere secluded, then sneak attack from the shadows with non-lethal force. Take the halfling somewhere else secluded and interrogate him. Shade wants to determine if the halfling is actually a Boromar spy, and if so, Shade will kill him and bring back his head. Later, he will be able to explain to Saidan that he did him a favour for the reasons he explained to Keshta. If the halfling is innocent, we'll have to play it out.

[Naturax]

As promised, Shade declares upon entering Keshta's study once again. Less than an hour has passed, and here stands the warforged, bearing a canvas sack with a single large, roughly spherical object within.