Change of Ages - Beginnings

[Kurrel]

You are Solars, chosen of the Unconquered Sun and some of the greatest beings to walk creation... yet almost the entire world believes you are the forces of evil sent to corrupt and destroy.

While the world at large has been taught that you are Anathema, the number of people you can go to for help and assistance is severely limited. These people will often mention to newcomers that they might have met others like them, or even pass along messages and coordinate safe meetings between such wary and hunted individuals. Though never official, a network of sorts tends to develop between Solars and those who are willing to help.

Through these clandestine meetings you've found people like yourselves, with powers of the same level and with the same dire fate threatening them. While occasionally there are rumours of other Solars at work in the wider world, it seems that there are no such towering figures in the Scavenger lands... yet. Perhaps you and the companions you have met will effect such mighty changes.

-

One amongst you had made it his particular pursuit to find, rescue and support his fellow Solars. Gentle, bookish and peaceful, he was calm and serene in all his actions, travelling the length and breadth of the Scavenger lands to try and find each Solar under the guise of a powerful factor for the Guild. In many cases, he was the first other Solar you met and offered help and support to help you adjust to your new lives. Selavaris was his name, the Gentle Gatherer.

That will not happen again, nor will you be offered tea in the quiet shadows of his estate while music fills the air. He lies murdered, along with his entire household staff and his estate was thoroughly ransacked. Considering the violence committed, it seems almost impossible that neighbours insist that they heard nothing.

Whether you liked him or not, respected him or not at all, his death poses many questions and problems. He was a man of thorough research and impeccable record keeping. It is quite possible that he kept records of all the Solars he had met and how he contacted them. It is even possible that he was murdered for this very information. Furthermore, he was always conducting research on the tombs and pasts of the Solars and it remains possible that what he had uncovered so far could be still be put to use.

As news has spread through the few channels available, you gather both to mourn a man and to chart a future course. It may be that this is the moment to take a firmer grasp of destiny, without Selevaris' counsel to remain still and calm.

-

Imantaris is the city where the Gentle Gatherer lived. It is a city of ancient secrets and powerful cartels. Dominated by a central mount, the ancient palace upon it's slope has lone lain abandoned. Even it's slopes are untouched by encroaching buildings, the white stone and green orchards untouched even today.

The Guild runs this city, powerful and replete with wealth. The palaces that dominate the center of the city are elaborate in their efforts to outdo each other, while in the outer areas trade is king, with the wealth of nations flowing in and out of the city. Caravans and warehouses abound, a multitude of people going back and forth as well as a sea of slaves, both for use here and on their way elsewhere. In such a place, it is easy to disappear.

While not on the scale of Nexus, the city is one of the grand gems of the Scavenger Lands and lies far beyond the reach of the Realm.

-

When Selevaris was not available, there was an establishment called the Lonely Queen where the owner is one of those who is willing to both conceal and help those such as yourself. Room and board is always free to such as you, gratitude for some boon long in the past. Even when not staying here, it provides a central place in which to meet and begin to unravel the murder that has been dealt to your small group.

The man who owns the restaurant is ancient now, bald on top and remaining white hair tied back in a long pony tail. He has thick eyebrows that almost hide alert eyes and his wizened face shows time spent under the sun and hard at work. He is thin but upright, walking with a cane and always well dressed in deep reds and browns. His two daughters and their husbands run the restaurant, themselves middle aged and married, while several grandchildren serve. By and large, the owner and his daughters know, but their grandchildren do not.

The place has a huge, open ground floor with several pillars for support. Screen doors slide back to look out onto a walled in garden and both room and garden have round tabled with many well-worn chairs surrounding them. The place is tidy and of good reputation, generally populated by craftsmen taking their leisure after the day. The family stays in rooms out the back and guests stay on the first and second floors. Anyone who needs, is allowed to sleep for free on the floor of the first floor during the night.


All the PCs know each other and have met before. Whether you work together already, as pairs or a larger group, can be decided as we move ahead.

Generally, you have arrived within a week of Selevaris' death. You have not made contact with people locally yet and there is no widely available news regarding the death of what, to others, was a wealthy but relatively unremarkable factor.

If you choose to stay elsewhere, please describe the kind of place you are looking for, and why.

Pose entrance, and we'll go from there.

[Jesse Drake]

Zakai and Staffa

Zakai entered the city with great pleasure. The last time he was here, it was all tea and cake. And now... things were different. Something was wrong, and Zakai knew it... Well, Staffa knew it, and Zakai got the gist.

Zakai was a strange young man, who looked like very youthful. He had dark tanned skin and light blue hair. He wore loose blue silk shorts and shirt. Concealed in a small satchel were two weapons, one seemed a bit different.

Next to him was a monkey. It was as any small monkey, except it's the fur on it's hands were the same as a tiger's claws. It walked with a purpose- more so than the Monkey Boy who proceeded him.

Indeed, Zakai walked as if every small thing fascinated him. He walked along the sidewalks, thinking to himself he really needed a bite. So he headed for the nearest restaurant.

[Green Bean]

Cloaked Skies has naturally gravitated to the Lonely Queen's bar, where he can be found with a mug in his hand, and what were once finely tailored clothes on his back. The exalt had been plying his trade in places like this since he was eight, and looks entirely relaxed. His rules were simple; act drunker than you were, banter with the wait staff (enough to put them at their ease but not enough to draw undue attention), and never carry your own money.

At the moment, he's the life of the party. To the owner's grandchildren and curious patrons, he's an agent of some faraway merchant house, low-ranking and put upon enough that the local craftsmen can sympathize with his tribulations, and a very jovial drunk.

"...and the Satrap says, 'but what am I going to do with three yeddim?'!" He finishes his story to general guffaws. One member of his audience gives him a hearty slap on the back. Skies staggers forward a bit, and an envelope falls out of his jacket. He grabs it off of the floor on his third try, and very clumsily and obviously folds it up and places it in his coin purse, which swings precariously from his belt.

The papers contained further proof of his identity of merchant house's agent. The house seal looked very official, and the calligraphy practically oozed formality, and authorized him to make a variety of very expensive deals on his house's behalf. Skies wondered how much longer it was going to take for someone to steal it. In Nexus he would've been stripped naked by now. Naturally, both the writing and the seal were entirely fake. However, once the local criminal underworld found them, they would almost certainly get in contact with him. Who they were and whether they wanted to bribe him or run him out of town would tell him volumes about the way Imantaris was run.

With a grin and a slur, he raised his glass and called for another toast.

[Jokasti]

Serpents had been sitting in the Lonely Queen for about 20 minutes, meditating. She was thinking about her past and how she had got here. Selevaris had found her wandering around somewhere in the SouthEast he said. She'd been to this city a few times, but still wasn't completely familiar with it. The Lonely Queen was about the only spot she 'frequented'. Selevaris' death could only mean bad things to come, but he had mentioned others like her... she would have to look into that, she mused as she sipped her tea.

[Fortuna]

The owner of the Lonely Queen was grateful for the extra custom and peaceful atmosphere provided by a spot of music, and Faelkun knew it well. Although he was forced to hold himself back somewhat, Faelkun's playing was little short of miraculous to the ears of most, and it flowed through the background of the building's noise like a golden thread. Occasionally something would catch his ear, and then Faelkun would twist the melody a little to wrap itself around that momentary noise, supporting and reinforcing the little things that he found beauty in. People were often amazed at the range of sounds that could be pulled from a single instrument, small enough to be portable, and Faelkun smiled to himself as he let the music flow through him. A few days more, and then he would turn his mind to matters less pleasant, but the important thing was to savour those few days for all he was worth. As a chord melted into an arpeggio, Faelkun slipped into a lively, ancient song of life, death, and the beauty around them, and the "Lay of the Golden Butterfly" seemed to take flight as it left the strings.

[Calimos]

Adamant Titan

As the sun was starting to run his course through the skies, Titan was entering the city of Imantaris, thoughts and concerns clouding his mind. News of Selevaris's untimely death had reached him while in the wilderness of the East. Titan was always fond of nature more than the so-called civilized settlements and cities, since he found them to be more restricting than the natural beauty and wild nature of the outdoors environment.

After all Creation had so many beautiful places that confinement to a single one seemed like a waste of potential. He also found himself more at home while in the wilderness and his spirit more in tune with the flows of essence that coursed within his body and within Creation.

But these grave news had dragged him from his meditation and travels and had brought him today to the very city in which Selevaris dwelled and had now claimed his life.

Titan searched for the Lonely Queen's bar remembering the familiar face of the inkeeper. During his stay in Imantaris at an earlier time, he was introduced to him by Selevaris and he acknowledged the inkeeper's discretion and assistance through these hard times.

Titan walked in, tall and imposing, with broad shoulders and upright posture, black skinned, wearing loose traveller's clothes that allowed him increased freedom of movement and revealed its upper body's healthy and powerful physique. A hat was idly hanging on his back, his service of protection from sun and rain during the travel now fulfilled and a satchel from his shoulder, reaching till his waist, containing his few possessions.

By his side a magnificent beast was walking with slow, careful steps, watching carefully its surroundings . A black panther from the eastern jungles that seemed to acknowledge Adamant Titan as a trusted companion and listened to his every command.

As they moved in, Titan's heart was rejoiced, for inside the bar, most of his companions were present and seemed in good health. Despite the hardships of his life, before and after exaltation, Titan valued greatly trusted comrades and he felt he had a duty to protect them, even more so mow that the one person who ever took care of them, understanding their nature and helping them was dead.

Nodding to them, Titan gestures to his panther to sit quitely near a wall and not disturb any client in here and then moves forth to meet his companions and discuss about their news so far as well as about the death of their protector.

[Sanguine]

Sotha Sil

Sitting in a booth by himself with tons of books spread out before him and a sketch pad in his hand. He looked the archetypal brilliant eccentric; just the way he wanted it, though he probably would have had the stuff regardless. He also showed a rather large degree of wealth with his fine silk clothes; not that he would be stupid enough to carry any real sizable amount of money with him. His purple hair caused him to stand out quite a bit even in the cosmopolitan Scavenger Lands of course it also played up his eccentricity.

Listening to Faelkun play always did inspire him, even when he held back like now. Sketching almost in perfect time with the melody of the harp a picture of the Golden Lord's palace began to form. As he finished it Sotha stuck it away in a folder. Wouldn't do to give anyone hints about where he was from now would it.

As he put it away he took a sip of his rice wine and opened a rather rare book. It had taken him forever to track down. Not because others had snatched up all the copies but quite the opposite, no-one had ever shown any interest in it and so most copies had been lost or destroyed in the decades since it's original creation. It was a quite intriguing tale about a young Fire Aspect Dragon-Blood saving a beautiful princess from the clutches of an evil Unclean Solar Anathema. The plot does sound cliche but what interested him is how accurate the powers of the Solar antagonist and Terrestrial protagonists were. The other thing which intrigued him was the unique use of symbolism in the eventual fall into decadence of the Hero and the growing humanity of the villain. Now at first one might think it is merely anti-Immaculate symbolism but that is not the case; at least not in full. The fall of the Hero mirrors the fall of the Shogunate or even First Age from a time of glory and prosperity to the fallen state they eventually both came to enter. It also represents how what we might expect is right can change as we learn more. Of course this is all conjecture and only the author whoever he was could really say what it all means.

Closing the book Sotha watched as Titan entered, it always did amaze him that no-one was ever alarmed by the magnificent beast that followed him around. With that thought Sotha began sketching again, this time the graceful feline by the door standing on a shrine anointed to the Sun people gathering around because of the glorious temple but all understanding the panther was the master of the temple. As he finished the sketch Sotha chuckled at his private joke and returned to his wine.

[Jesse Drake]

Zakai

Zakai enters the Lonely Queen eagerly, being lead by his stomach. But what he saw was overwhelming. A few of the patrons he had known. He felt excited. Very excited.

"HEY GUYS!" Subtlety be damned- there was nothing quiet about Zakai. He waves at you all, and then runs up to sit in the group. It's a surprise- you'd all seen him before, and from what you remember, you're shocked he didn't jump right to you.

Staffa follows shortly, hopping up on Zakai's shoulder and perching quietly. "Wow- I'm surprised to see you guys! So- I take it you've all gotten the news too! Sucks, doesn't it!?"

[Green Bean]

For an almost infinitesimal moment, Cloaked Skies is at a loss as the young foreign man's voice booms across the crowded bar. Then, his brain shifts back into gear. Skies was no academic, but he had cultivated an invaluable memory for faces and names. His mind sifts through a metaphorical dossier and pulls out the file marked 'Zakai'; earnest young man, brave to a fault, but not very bright. And with a fair bit of money to his name...

"ZAKAI! My friend! C'mere!" Skies beckoned Zakai over to the bar, and with gentle encouragement to the crowd clears a seat. "It was indeed tragic news. He was a good man."

Skies pats Zakai on the back morosely, then brightens up. "Where I come from, we have a custom. When someone close to us dies, we gather to drink and dance and tell tales, so our last memories of him are pleasant. What would you say to buying a round or two and reminiscing?"

Skies is trying to trick Zakai into paying for the drinks. Pool is Manipulation+Presence vs. either of his Mental DVs

[roll0]

[Jesse Drake]

No resist :smallbiggrin:- I couldn't beat that anyways. 'Sides. I was waiting for an opening to spend some money.

Zakai smiles. "Oh- no problem!" He reaches into a smaller satchel on his side, and pulls out a few shells. His Jade Tigerclaw falls out for a second, but Staffa is ready and grabs it before it hits the ground, and tucks it away for Zakai. The shells are of various sizes and shapes... but he seems to be sure that it's enough to pay for enough drinks.

"Eh?! Look at that! I found most of them on the beaches myself! Huh!" He seems to be extremely proud of himself. "Hey! Waiter! Drinks all around! And for me- I'll have a bunch of bananas!" An odd order, but they should have it. If not- well, he'd be discouraged. That's all. But he really hopes they have the bananas.

Amongst the shells, one of them seems to be more of a decoration, carved from a gem that should have some worth to it. Enough to get the drinks. But it seems like Zakai wouldn't know it different from the others.

[Jokasti]

Serpents opens an eye and closes it as the waiter refills her glass. These two were too loud to be anything other than some of the others Selevaris had been talking about. And the man with a panther- a panther in a city? She was surprised he hadn't been hit by the authorities yet. Although that jungle animal took her back to the days she had lived in her village.

[Fortuna]

The last chord of the song ripples into silence, and Faelkun lifts the harp as he moves to join the group. He quietly indicates to the barman that he'll be happy with a glass of water, then turns to face the room with his harp by his side.

"I'm sure many of those here prefer happier music than what I am about to play. In all honesty, so do I. But a very dear friend of mine died recently, and I have always felt that the truest tribute to a friend that I could give was a song in their honor. For that reason, this next song will be a song of longing and sadness. I apologize in advance."

He turns back to his colleagues as he begins to play.

"I wanted to wait until more of us were here before I did this. I wrote it last night. He really was a brilliant man."

[Kurrel]

Trade in animals both mundane and unusual is not unusual in Imantaris, while it's immense markets and bazaars are enough to draw even tribesmen and their companion animals from the forests far to the east. Titan has been warned that it is fine for him to bring his animal into the city but that any disturbance or harm that it causes will result in it's death and fines for him. However, normal people give both Titan and his companion a wide berth, crowding out of the way where streets or doorways narrow the flow of traffic.

Both Titan and Zakai have been accosted by merchants eager to buy their animals, offering a variety of prices from insultingly cheap to exceedingly large price tags.

In the Lonely Queen itself, the elderly owner has been standing behind the bar, letting his head nod softly to Faelkun's music. There are certainly a few more patrons than normal, as well. As Zakai arrives with his energetic noise and closely followed by the intimidating pair of Titan and company, the music also comes to an end. Several patrons take this as the time to depart, paying for their drinks and leaving only a bare handful of remaining mortals at the various tables.

One of the two young man who tend the bar has been filling Skies' ordes while he's at the bar and continues to do so when Skies approaches Zakai and a new round of drinks is ordered. Staffa, after hopping onto the bar, begins chattering in frustration and batting at Zakai's hand when the young Solar flashes his money so carelessly before darting off the bar to catch the weapon and stow it carefully again. Clambering up to Zakai's shoulder, the monkey proceeds to slump and gives a long suffering sigh, tail tucked around Zakai's neck.

Both Sotha Sil and Serpents have been waited on as needed, with one of the waiters even going so far as to bring Sotha Sil a small table for his drinks, to keep them separate from the table where his many books are spread.

[Jesse Drake]

"You should lighten up Staffa really I mean you are totally bringing down the mood I mean do you want this thing to be associated with sorrow?!" He's shouting rather softly- but still shouting. He didn't even notice his weapon drop.

"So- how have you been I've been great I've been sailing the seas and busting pirates all over it's been great!"

[Calimos]

Titan's heart lightens at the sight of his companions and a small smile seems to show on his lips.
He moves on to where they're seating and greets them cordially.

"All is good brothers, well apart from that which brought us here. And the Realm's unceasing vigilance, which thankfully seems to be more lax as of lately.
I was on another of my trips, practising my martial arts and increasing my skill, meditating on the meaning of essence and admiring the magnificence of Creation, walking by wonders of nature and finding my inner calmness. I'd still be on the move if not for those unsettling news that reached me.

But we must not give ourselves to dispair and i'm happy to see you all in good health and hopefully in an optimistic mood. What i can guarantee is that i'll do all in my power to provide all necessary protection from any threats we might encounter as well as help in any way possible should we decide that it'll be necessary to investigate the circumstance of our mentor's murder."

And trying to lighten the mood a bit he adds:

"Well and probably visit any respected arena, gymnasium or other interesting parts of Imantaris - especially ones involving pretty ladies - while here".

[Green Bean]

Skies gives his his various departing friends a hearty goodbye as they leave, and smoothly extricates himself from the remnants of the mortal party before sitting down with the rest of the group. He gave his fellow Solars an open and friendly smile, though inwardly he regarded the others with the slight wariness he gave all potentially violent wildcards.

Skies kicked back in his seat and looked at Titan, then the others. "So, you want to find out what happened to him? How about the rest of you?'

[Sanguine]

Sotha Sil

Looking over at his group of companions in annoyance Sotha says. "I would like for you people to stop interrupting my reading. If you can manage that for five minutes I will help you do whatever it is you decide to do; and hopefully it won't cost me my sanity."

[Jokasti]

Serpents walks over to the group. To answer Skies question, she says, "I am also here to find out what happened to Selevaris. He was a dear friend in hard times." Her voice is soft, yet strong, and she sits at the table.

[Kurrel]

The old man looks distressed when he overhears you speaking of Selevaris' murder. He catches one of his son-in-laws by the arm and tells him to close the inn for the evening. The burly, middle-aged man protests for a moment before glumly ushering all but your group out the door. The excuse he gives is a wake for a deceased friend and the remaining clientele file out with only a few grumbles and a moment to down their remaining drink.

One of the two daughters ushers out the young men and women of the family who serve as waitrons, along with the two sons-in-law, leaving you with one daughter and the innkeep. He goes behind the bar and gets a beautiful bottle of green glass inlaid with gold latticework from behind the counter and sets it on the table. "I may not have met all of you, but I knew Selevaris and owe him more than I can repay. For as long as you need it, my home and business are yours to use." He speaks with a quiet determination, all the while setting out small iron cups with beautiful engravings round the edge. "If you've a care for it, a toast to good people departed?" he suggests, having laid out a cup for every person in the room.

The daughter, though she stays back a bit, looks like she is holding back a few tears herself.

"There's been a little talk of the murder amongst the guilders and maybe I could help you on your way tomorrow, if it'd be of any help to folk such as yourself." That you knew Selevaris at all and have come here after his death is enough that he suspects you worked with him, though he may not know you are Solars, or even that you are exalted.

[Fortuna]

Faelkun smiles and takes his cup.

"To departed friends, to friends not yet arrived, and to friends present now. No need to dwell too heavily on the sadness in the present when there is so much more to the world."

"Any help that you can give would be appreciated immeasurably, by myself at least. You already have my thanks thrice over for what you have done before now."

[Kris Strife]

Whistling softly as he walks through the city, reaching the door of the inn just as the last of the crowd disperses. Much of his face is hidden by the cloak around his body, and he raises one fabric wrapped hand to knock firmly on the locked door.

Sorry I'm late, had family stuff to take care of. IRL that is.

[Kurrel]

There's a momentary confusion as the man ushering people out tries to bar the incoming Solar, but after someone inside recognizes the man outside, things are cleared up and the door is shut and secured again.

[Sanguine]

Sotha Sil

Taking his glass he raises it to the toast. Sotha had never particularly liked Selevaris but he was a decent man and deserved some respect. He had a bit of a time controlling his annoyance at the newest addition but well he had managed to hide his annoyance at most of the others. There was that small part where he snapped a few moments ago and it wouldn't do to make that a regular thing.

[Jesse Drake]

Zakai grins, and takes up his glass. He nods at Faelkun's words- then turns to the others- particularly Skies. "So- when does the dancing begin?"

[Calimos]

Titan raises his cup and says in his usual thunderous voice:
"Selevaris was a true champion of the Sun and a mentor and protector for us all. May his name live for eternity as all of us will remember his deeds".

[Jokasti]

Indeed. Serpents also lifts her glass.

[Sanguine]

Sotha Sil

Sotha lifts his glass to the toast to avoid burying his face in his palm. He then thinks to himself. Well at least the Inn is cleared out. Not that he didn't say things nearly as condeming when the Inn was full. After the toast Sotha returned to his book. Respect only gos so far.

[Fortuna]

"Eternity, my friend, can be contained in our hearts and minds alone. Let us turn our minds to matters of tomorrow, and honor our comrade in deeds. Now, who among us knows something of how we should approach it?"

[Calimos]

"I'd like to hear the suggestions of the rest at that. As is quite known, my subtlety resembles that of a gladiator in a pit fight. I haven't managed to uncover anything of importance yet and i'm afraid that my methods wouldn't be much of use at this point".

[Kurrel]

Summary

The brew that the old man has poured for the grim occasion is strong but laced with subtleties, thoroughly potent but always tempting for another glass.

After glasses are lowered and Faelkun has spoken, the bartender will nod sagely and rotate the cup in his hands. "I imagine most of you know where Selevaris lived and can guide those who never got to visit his home yourselves. He worked for Smiling Nikaram, stock keeping and investigating financial discrepancies."

The inn is yours for the night, conversation is struck up and acquaintances renewed. You may have met each other before or only ever heard of each other, but tonight you are brethren for at least a little while.


The conversation can go into the night and, over the next few days, you can all choose where you want to investigate, or if you simply rely on other people to investigate and go out to have fun.

It occurs to me that, as some are newbies, a few suggestions of what could be done might be appropriate :
His house could be investigated, as it is the murder scene. Investigation or social would most likely help here.
His work and employer might also contain hints. Social or bureaucracy would be helpful.
The local law enforcement hasn't given any mention of what's up. If they know anything, it's not been revealed.
The local bars and gathering areas might contain rumours of what is going on, though Selevaris did not stand out so this would be a difficult approach.
Investigating his finances, holdings and legal actions might lead to anything he was hiding.

[Jokasti]

I will investigate Smiling Nikaram, if anyone would like to join me.
Serpents looks at the rest of the group to see what they want to do.

[Jesse Drake]

"Hey! I think I'm gonna investigate his house!" He says. But then... he doesn't exactly remember the address. And he doesn't want the others to think he's an idiot or something...

He stands up and looks around for another patron he could ask the address from... but then he realizes the place was cleared out. So he just says "I'm gonna go gets some fresh air! You know- before we go!"

With a few steps, Zakai makes it outside, and looks for someone to tell him where Selvaris might be.

[Calimos]

Titan turns his attention to Serpents.
"I'd be glad to join you. His work environment seems like a good place to start our investigation. And maybe we could also ask the local law enforcement authorities afterwards for additional information".

She seems decent, Titan thought, and besides she is an experienced practicioner of martial arts. We could perhaps talk about this as a subject of mutual interest .

(Despite a long time with no pit fights or tournaments Titan was still keeping himself to top shape, actively looked for information on wise and powerful martial arts masters and hoped that there would be a chance to witness or participate in a local martial arts event at some point).

[Green Bean]

Cloaked Skies almost winced at the thought of Serpents and Titan investigating Smiling Nikaram on their own. The two did not seem to be very subtle. Unless they were very subtle. Hmm... He shook his head to clear it of that little tangent. "Perhaps I should go with you two. The more the merrier, right?"

Skies took a glance at his precariously dangling coinpurse, hiding the movement by taking another drink. What kind of bizarre world was this, where a drunk merchant could swing his wallet around unmolested?

Manipulation + Larceny to see how this pans out: [roll0]

[Jokasti]

It is decided. The three of us will investigate the workplace of Selevaris, and then the law enforcement of Itanisrusido. The others should go to his home and place of death. Perhaps you will find clues as to who murdered our friend. Someone else should look at the local bars.
Serpents gets ready to depart, and asks the barkeep for directions to the Smiling Nikaram, as the men most likely will not.

[Calimos]

Titan nods to Serpents and Skies, gets up and heads for the door, gesturing to his panther to follow silently.

[Jokasti]

Serpents finishes getting directions, and thanks the man. She draws her cloak around her, checks her sleeves, and follows Titan through the door.
It is to the right.

[Kris Strife]

Guardian thinks for a moment, then heads over to the owner. "I know this will seem like an odd question, but do you know where the body is being kept? I'd like to take a look and see if I can figure out exactly how he was killed."

[Fortuna]

Faelkun smiles a small smile and vanishes into the room that was part of his payment for performing. With added alliterative appeal as well.
Perhaps half an hour later, an old man leaves the inn, heading straight to the town square.
"Gather round, gather round! I've got stories of all sorts, and possibly a few sorts you haven't heard before! I've been places far, I've been places near, I've gathered news and hearsay and heresy! Gather round! My first story is a long one, but a good one! Gather round, to hear a story of a land both more and less fantastical than that which we live in! Gather round, and hear the story of There and Back Again!"
Slowly, the man gathers a crowd, and when he is satisfied he lays out a hat and begins.
"In a hole in the ground there lived a hobbit..."

Perform+Charisma check to gather as large and varied a crowd as I can:
10d10
Larceny+Manipulation check to do the disguise:
6d10
If you want me to roll Manipulation instead of Charisma, just ignore the last two rolls.

[Fortuna]

Woops, messed up my rolls.

[roll0]
[roll1]
As well as potential stunt bonuses:
[roll2]
Just read those sequentially, not that it'll matter at all.
Also, given the length of the epic that Faelkun is making up, I'm going to let other people have a chance to post before I finish my plan.

[Kurrel]

Skies, Titan and Serpents head out to contact the man for whom Selevaris worked for, Smiling Nikaram. The man is well known through the city and just about anyone can tell you where he conducts his business. However, actually getting an audience is an entirely different matter.


Unless you want to barge in or find some other way of finding your way to Smiling Nikaram, one of you may roll Manipulation+Bureaucracy, moderate to difficult.


Faelkun disguises himself and heads out into the street. He finds an open courtyard that is a little removed from the main streets where the militia would likely chase him off. A small fountain occupies the center of the square, running with cold, clean water from a statue of a coiling serpent. In short order, a handful of young men and oldsters are listening, along with a smattering of housewives and even a local craftsman or two.

Zakai and Staffa leave abruptly as well, yet forget the way to Selevaris' home. Asking the first person on the street doesn't help but someone overhears the query, a scribe who had done work for Selevaris before. He is able to give directions and soon Staffa stands before a high wall, enclosing the small, private garden and building that once housed the Solar. An aged woman, squinting near-sightedly, comes to the locked gateway if called.


You could charm your way in with a Charisma+Socialize roll, or else bluff about your purpose, with a Manipulation+Presence. If you wish to find another way in, please let me know.


The bartender shakes his head to Guardian's question regarding the body, but does say this much, "You could find out from the Ministry of Proper Placement, all who wish to live within the city must register with them and, when they die, it is recorded in their books."


Finding out where the body is, is a relatively easy Manipulation+Bureaucracy roll. Other methods can be found as well, but that's the clear and most obvious method.

[Jesse Drake]

Zakai grins, and signals for the lady to approach- then starts to harmlessly flirt with her. He smiles his boyish smile, and looks at her and says "My you look great today. Are you the deceased's granddaughter?" He asks with a huge smile on his face.

[roll0]

[Sanguine]

Sotha Sil

Sotha turns to the innkeeper and says, "You wouldn't happen to know of anyone who might be willing to share information regarding Silvaris and any enemeies he might have had for a mountain of Silver would you? For when it comes to things like this all I am really good for is supplying bribes."

[Kurrel]

Zakai (Jesse Drake)

The woman at Selevaris' estate look tired and sad, and your attempt to sweet talk her receives little patience. She quietly but certainly denies you entrance, ending with these words, "I may soon be looking for new work, but while I am here I'll do right by master Selevaris."

Guardian (Kris Strife)

You are directed to a drab but imposing building where many people work all day round taking notes on the comings and goings of people. It's not particularly difficult to discover that the body is being held in a ritual mortuary reserved for relatively wealthy people.

The man you speak to, sitting behind a wooden desk piled with notes, fiddles with ink stained fingers as he answers, "It's the House of Twelve Silent Bells." he says, after finding the appropriate paperwork. He frowns as he continues, "There's an official hold on the body, which is holding it up. Otherwise he'd have been shipped off to Sijan already. Good luck getting in to see him, though." More than that, he refuses to say.

Sotha Sil (Sanguine)

The bartender shakes his head sadly, "While I am sure he had enemies, friend, my role was to look out for his friends." He gestures around at your fellow solars as they drink and prepare to leave, "These and others found shelter here. I know very little of the man himself, though perhaps you might ask amongst the city militia or to his employer?"

The old man looks apologetic for being unable to help further.

[Kris Strife]

He makes a mental note of the building's location, heading towards the market to look for a set of medical tools. He'd left his in the village he'd left when he heard the news, wanting to make sure those he'd been teaching had proper tools of their own. Once he acquires them, as well as a proper bag to hold them, he heads towards the House of Twelve Silent Bells, carrying his doctor's bag where it can clearly be seen, looking for someone who seems important enough to help him.

[Jesse Drake]

Zakai starts to walk around, looking for a way in that no one will notice. If he has to resort to extreme measures... well, he shouldn't. And Staffa will be there to stop him if he does.

[Fortuna]

"...And thus ends a hobbit's holiday. Now, I think I've talked quite enough, don't you? Come, I'll make you a deal: for every person who tells me a bit of news I don't know, I'll use a name, or an animal, or something of that nature in my next story that they can choose. And the person who tells me the most interesting thing can choose the name of the next story. So who likes my deal?"

Cha+Performance: [roll0]
Man+Prescence: [roll1]
EDIT: Four successes on the first roll and three on the second, after bonuses.

[Green Bean]

"I suppose we should see about getting an appointment, but I've never been the type. Besides, a fancy guy like that, he probably won't give us the time of day. I say we talk to a few people, see if they know anyone to let us skip ahead of the line."

A "few" people turns out to be an understatement. Skies whirls through the city like a leaf on the wind. He starts with the warehouses, and works inward, refining his search as those he meets pass on further information. As he moves further in, his disguises become increasingly refined, going from hard-luck merchant contemplating a few shifts as a warehouse worker to make ends meet, to a visiting savant looking to see his services, to a majordomo for a newly landed noblewoman ("Yes, that's the lovely lady. No, she hasn't been betrothed yet, and her father would certainly look kindly to someone who helped in his hour of need"). And all the while, Skies tries to build a picture of the organization; names, ranks, influence. In the end he discards most of the highly ranked individuals. An approach would take far too long, and be a little risky with two untrained individuals with him. Instead, he looks a little lower. He knew from experience that even the greatest leaders depended on assistants, and the identity of Smiling Nikaram's secretary would be invaluable.

Might as well get some mileage out of my Contacts background. Trying to gather information on a secretary or assistant with the ability/authority to get us in to see him sans appointment.

[roll0]

[Kurrel]

Skies (Green Bean)

Everyone in the city seems to know of Smiling Nikaram, his reputation and immense wealth. Whether it is just bad luck in who you are able to find or that his organization is very private you aren't sure, but you are unable to pin down many specifics. You get a name of a factor from one person, the name of a merchant who does business with Smiling Nikaram from another, but never quite the things you are looking for.

Serpents (Jokasti)

What the locals all know and can easily be discovered is that he owns several warehouses on the outer edges of Imantaris and holds lavish parties regularly at his palace near the center of town. Also, during the day, he typically does business from a beautiful and ancient building in the upscale area of the market districts. It surrounds a large, open air agora where he 'holds court' during dry weather.

Faelkun (Random Person)

The group that has been listening to your stories are spellbound by the tales you weave, some sentimental housewives on the verge of tears at the ending of romantic ones and children laughing and clapping at the cleverness of your funny ones. When you stop, there's an aww of protest from several and, in order to get you to continue, several people give news.

Amongst the many pieces of mundane and unrelated snippets you collect, the following stand out:
"Smiling Nikaram has an edge over just about anyone at the bargaining table, some say he could pay a forest lord in leaves and have the other thing he got the better of the bargain."
"Smiling Nikaram's been doing business since before my father started working."
"You can't find a decent guard for hire these days. Every man who can carry a sword seems to have been hired as security by the different coin princes in town."

Zakai (Jesse Drake)

The walls that surround the estate are wound with ivy and would be easy to clamber up.


Strength+Athletics to climb the wall,
Wits+Stealth to find a moment when noone is looking.


Guardian (Kris Strife)

It's easy enough to find various medical equipment, including bandages, ointments, sharp and precise knives, etc. There isn't much of a recognized doctor's bag, though, and eventually you have to settle for a satchel that you can sling across one shoulder for easy carrying.

The House of Twelve Silent Bells is a very large complex, consisting of several halls extending off each other. The entire complex is done in grey stone with a black tiled roof. Twelve towers do indeed jut up from the complex, though they whether they contain bells or not is questionable, as smoke drifts from several of them.

Many people are walking to and from the building, up a flight of stairs that dozens could walk up abreast. As you enter the building, you find it considerably darker than the exterior. There are several young children dressed in black tunics and long pants, one of whom notices you and comes walking over.

The girl who was walked up looks at you curiously, "May I help, m'lord?" she mumbles, hands clasped together.

[Jokasti]

Serpents leads Titan and Skies to the ancient building where he does business during the day. Assuming there is some sort of foyer with a secretary, she attempts to set up an appointment.
Hello. My associates and I would like to meet with Smiling Nikaram as soon as possible. The matter is urgent, and demands discretion.
(Charisma + Bureaucracy) [roll0]

[Jesse Drake]

Zakai hunkers down, and starts to search the area for another way in- and after a while, he finds one- and prepares to leap. But luckily, Staffa pulls his sleeve, reminding Zakai that there might be people around. "You're a good pal li'l buddy." Zakai says with a smile. After a moment of checking around, they determine that no one is watching (or so Zakai believes) and Zakai heads up.

[roll0] Stealth/Wits
[roll1] Strength/Athletics

[Calimos]

Titan moves next to Serpents and stands in front of the secretary in a majestic pose, his perfect muscles and ebony skin accentuating his words. He stares down to him, and says:

"Indeed. A most distressing matter brings us here and we have travelled for long to meet with Smiling Nikaram. And we have waited for too long. While we acknowledge the fact he's a busy man, our matter allows for no postponement nor complacency. There are certain things that must be uncovered and others that must be set in their proper order and I intend to see to it. Now if you'd be so kind, do me the favor to summon your boss or arrange a meeting with him as soon as possible".


Rolling Charisma+Presence to shake the clerk a bit mentally and persuade him to let us see Smiling Nikaram as quickly as possible.

[roll0]

[Fortuna]

Faelkun

"I swear, I've never had a crowd that loved me so much! Well, I suppose I owe you another story. Now, what was the title that you wanted, sir? Certainly. Ladies and gentlemen, listen closely to a tale of three bachelors!"

Faelkun continues his storytelling until almost dark, stopping to try for news occasionally. At the end of the day, he throws down his cap, and by the time the crowd is finished he's struggling to pick it up again.

I'll do one more roll for news, then another roll for money at the end of the day. Using excellencies this time, too!
[roll0] + 5 (from the Second Performance Excellency: burning 10 motes of personal essence to achieve that). EDIT: 3+5=8.
[roll1] (+ bonus successes from above) EDIT: 0+6=6
[roll2] EDIT: 9.

[Kris Strife]

Guardian looks at the girl and smiles in a friendly manner. "Maybe... I'm a doctor and a good friend of mine was murdered recently. I was wondering if I could take a look at the body, I want to try to find out how he was killed. Is there someone I need to speak to for permission?"

[Kurrel]

Titan, Serpents and Skies,

From the outside, the building is imposing. It occupies it's own block, surrounded on all sides by streets and sidewalks set with decorative trees. A great many people fill the streets, some of whom enter into or come out of the building. As you enter the building, you can see that most of those who enter have invitations and are waved on. You see one man arguing fiercely with one of the dozens of lackeys that work here, all dressed in scarlet and gold trim tunics and black pants, with low boots to finish the outfit.

The inside of the building is lavish, with floors tiled in marble and stained glass windows colouring the light. The ceiling is very high, providing room for an internal balcony to look over it, beneath which are double doorways that look out onto the open garden. Through these doors you can see a crowd of people on cushions and milling about, talking and listening amongst each other. To either side of the hall, there are several doorways that lead into other parts of the building. By and large, they go unused.

As soon as one of the lackeys realizes that you do not have an invite, he weaves his way through the crowd and comes walking up to you. "May I help?" he asks with a wide smile and hands clasped together in front of him. He's soft, fashionable and probably never done hard labour of any kind, picked for his boyish charm and social wits.

When Serpents speaks, the young man gives a wry grin and gestures towards the garden. "As you can see, my master is a very busy man." he says, and then looks artfully innocent. "I am permitted to grant people entrance to see my master..." and here the smile sharpens a little as he looks on, "As yet I see no reason to do so."

And then Titan interjects. The smile slides off the lackey's face and he runs one hand through his hair. "Uhh, yeah. Nikaram's gonna love this." he mutters to himself.

Zakai

You wait until there is a momentary lull in the traffic of people back and forth, leaning against the wall to the garden. There are still a few people on the street but it seems the only decent chance you get when you turn and vault up to grab the top of the wall. Hauling yourself up, you slither down over the other side and find yourself deep behind several bushes. They bear heavy blue flowers that sag under their own weight, filling the air with a sweet, subtle scent. The position is just about perfect, and you can see a formal garden with a gazebo styled for meditation.

There is no movement that you can see from here, but you can spot that the windows on the first floor are open, as well as the door that leads out onto the garden itself.

Faelkun

This time your words weave a spell around all those listening, whose minds are transported to your imaginary tales. You hold them in the palm of your hand for the duration of your stories and, afterwards, know that they'll be talking about the stories for days to come. When you thirst, a man shares the pitcher of wine that he had bought for the evening and when you hunger a housewife darts back into her nearby house to fetch the pie she had prepared in the morning, all to assure you finish the tale.

There isn't much more to tell, though one young tradesman notes that it's unusual for the captain of the guard to take such a personal interest in a murder. They happen all the time, after all, and usually she's far too busy. "But I've seen her enter the estate what-where the murder did happen not once, but THREE times." He seems pleased with himself for the information he has to add.

Guardian

The child looks up attentively, then gives a brief but charming smile. "I don't think they'd letcha touch the body, sirrah, but I can take you to one of the embalmers and maybe you could convince him?" she offers instead.

[Green Bean]

Skies sidles cheerfully into view, carefully shifting the lackey's focus away from the big scary gladiator and toward the friendly little man with the kindly smile. "You'll have to pardon my overeager friend here, he's not the sort for explanations, but he's really quite friendly."

Skies' cheerful face darkens, like a stormcloud across the sun. "I, however, am not. We have completed our investigation on behalf of the Nexus branch, and let me tell you, the Guild is not happy about things." He notices a few heads turning at his sharp tone, but kept his voice low and angry; they would not hear him, but hopefully the young man would be pressured by the potential for a wider audience. "The Guild does not appreciate embezzlement, and certainly not at the levels we have discovered! Someone in Nikaram's very office is taking money destined for our coffers! We need to speak with him. Now."

Skies, figuring the lackey was sufficiently off-balance, moved in for the kill, his expression a mask of pure righteous rage. "Every moment you delay us gives me further reason to call you a co-conspirator. Now, will you get us in, quietly, or I will see to it that you are item number one on the next caravan to the Bordermarches!"

Manipulation + Presence to get us into Smiling Nikaram's office without an appointment. Spending 3 personal motes for Irresistable Salesman Spirit to double successes. Appearance 5.

[roll0]

[Kris Strife]

Guardian thinks for a moment, then nods. "Yes, I suppose that will work. Thank you very much."

[Jesse Drake]

Zakai grabs onto Staffa. "Come on now. We've got a job to do." Zakai stares at the window, and for a second, his eyes go blank for a moment. He borrows from his personal essence- from Staffa. He activates his Soaring Crane Leap- and "flies" through it. He'll do it as fast as he can, not taking a moment to think about it.

[Kurrel]

Zakai

With an ease that would confound other people, you cut through the air. Staffa clings to your arm and buries his head against your shoulder as you move but makes not a sound.

The room you have leapt into is quiet, the doors closed and the lanterns unlit. For all that, the room feels like it could have been left only a moment ago. A near the window is scattered with documents and all the tools of writing, while a dozen books lay stacked upon a table set before a deep couch. There is a discarded blanket on the couch and a jacket tossed over the back of another chair. Knick knacks clutter almost every surface, from valuable gems and fragments of items to seemingly random things, like a clutch of feathers and a small, painted shell.

Titan, Serpents and Skies,

Though there is no central authority that the man knows of, nor rules that you mention, you shake his certainty and unsettle him with your confidence. He casts a look about, not worried about other people coming back and forth, but rather with his fellows. Eyes narrowing, he swiftly looks back to you and gestures to come with him, "Better to take you before Nikaram himself than not." he hisses, "But I take no responsibility for how he responds." he adds in a pompous fashion.

He stalks to the arch that leads into the garden, glancing over his shoulder when he reaches it. "Who ARE you, anyways? I need to announce a name of some sort.."

Guardian

The girl leads you through a warren of small, cramped corridors to a room with no view. The number of doors you have passed, there could be any number of people working in here. The one you are brought to see, though, is a rail thin woman with an austere, watchful regard. She does not rise from behind her simple desk of darkly polished wood, but instead gestures for you to take one of the three seats facing it.

"Have you come to identify the dead, pay your respects, pay their bills or attend rites?" she asks, eyes going back to a sheet of paper in front of her. While talking, she picks up a quill from an inkpot and starts writing again, attention split between you and her work.

[Kris Strife]

Guardian sits down and thinks for a moment. "Well, I would like to attend the rites, but first... I want to find out exactly how he died."

[Calimos]

Titan looks to the young servant, thinks for a moment, realizing that even though they insist to see someone they can't proceed unannounced, (heck even in the arena no gladiator would enter without his proper name being announced to the organizer and the crowd) and replies.

"I am known as Adamant Titan".

[Jesse Drake]

"Shinies!" He exclaims, sweeping up the gems into his pocket- as well as any other shiny knick-knacks.

Then, Zakai quickly makes his way to the nearest door, and opens it up wide- if he doesn't see anyone, he'll close it, and start searching the room.

[Kurrel]

Titan, Serpents and Skies,

With Titan taking the lead and speaking up, the man glances only once between the tall gladiator and his two companions. He gives a slight shrug of one shoulder before walking ahead of you and into the garden. Taking a deep breath, he announces in a voice both rich and clear, "Please welcome the guests, Adamant Titan and company!"

Several people do look on in curiousity but, by and large, the arrival is ignored by many present. The conversation goes on and the quiet music continues unperturbed. However, one person certainly appears to have taken notice.

Sitting under a trellis of vines that provide shade and ensconced in a nest of pillows lounges a youngish looking man with a woman tucked against his side. He is dressed in an open shirt of deep red and loose pants of a dull, deep brown. He is barefoot, with long brown hair worn loose around his shoulders and projects an image of lazy majesty, his eyes black and his skin a healthy tan. A long dagger with a ruby set into it's hilt is worn at his belt but he is otherwise unadorned. There are two servants near to him, and the shaded area provided by the trellis is clearly the focal point of the garden.

He is regarding the three of you with narrowed eyes. Sitting up, the woman at his side murmurs a protest at his motion but he ignores you as he snaps his fingers. Immediately, one of the servants bends down and you can see him gesture towards the three of you.

The servant, an elderly man of statesmanlike calm comes up and gives a humble bow, "My master would like the honour of your company, gentlemen and ladies."

Zakai

You pocket a handful of things, Staffa bounding around and pointing out a few more select pieces, though in the process he causes a pile of papers to tilt to one side and then slither off a table in a flurry of notes. The sound is minor, though, and you detect no response to it.

Opening the door wide, a quick glance down either path of the hall reveals no people and, more tellingly, no lights lit even. Ducking back in, you begin to search the place.


Please make a Wits+Investigation roll if you're giving it a once over, or an Intelligence+Investigation if you're really taking your time.


Guardian

The woman nods amiably and looks up from her notes. "Who are you looking for?" she enquires. After you answer, she stands and moves over to a small side door, opening it to gesture over a young, black-clad page. She speaks with him for a moment before returning to you. "Would you care for some tea, as you wait?" she offers out of courtesy, before returning to her notes.

Some minutes later, there's a soft ringing from the door she went to. "Come." she says simply, and the same page steps in. He hands her a group of papers and then darts out, all without saying a word. Meanwhile, the woman sets aside her quill and looks over the notes and then nods almost to herself.

"This man, Selevaris, has already been identified. The nature of his death was violent, though, and so there are legal matters to attend to. If you've come to entreat his release for burial, I am afraid we will have to deny you. His bills are paid, so what are you here for?


Some options are to say you are here on his behalf, at the bequest of family, or that you are here as part of the investigation. Obviously both are lies and need to be accompanied by Manipulation+an appropriate skill depending on your actions.

Other options exist, like taking it bodily from her. Just let me know your decision.

[Jesse Drake]

Zakai isn't too sure what he's doing- but he'll give it a shot. Zakai quickly searches through the papers and the rest of the room for anything that might be of use to him- or the others.[roll0]

[Kris Strife]

"The fact that his death was violent is precisely the reason I am here. As I mentioned he was a friend of mine, and while I don't believe he was a great force in the world, I have trouble discounting his death as mere coincidence. I want to determine the exact cause of death, and I would be quite happy to share not only my findings but any other knowledge I can offer in exchange. I know it seems an odd request, but I dislike leaving anything that could lead to the truth unexamined."

[Kurrel]

Zakai,

You don't find much more than the gems you've already pocketed. There are simply too many documents, books, diagrams and fragments to accurately discern what might be useful or not.

In the meantime, it would seem that someone is coming upstairs, as you can hear the unsubtle thump of heavy feet coming up the wooden stairs, along with the jingle of arms and armour. There is no haste to the motion and, after a moment, you can hear two women speaking. One voice is almost assuredly the elderly caretaker who rebuffed you earlier.

Guardian (I'm just putting up what happened, you can respond as and when),

The woman behind the desk regards you with some sympathy, the kind spared for the sorts of people she must see every day. She puts down the report that she holds, the long lines of text clearly written by different people as the reports went on.

"There is a standard fee for the viewing of the dead, and you may not touch them without proof of your intent and connection with and to them." she explains, "If you were a relation, we could test your relationship but as a friend, only a writ from someone of good standing within the city will stand. Still, you can come view the corpse immediately, should you wish to pay the bill."

[Jesse Drake]

Zakai quickly thinks of something- he'll scoop some of the papers and diagrams into his bag, assuming they are somewhat useful, and hop out the window. If the caretaker is here, then she's not in the yard- or at least, that's his plan.

[Kris Strife]

Guardian thinks for a few moments, then shakes his head. "No... Not yet. Not until I can do something that will help me find the ones responsible. Who exactly would I need to get permission from to be able to examine him?"

[Kurrel]

Zakai,

Putting your arm on one side of the desk, you sweep it across the wood and gather up the notes and diagrams, and no small number of fragments, into your bag. A quick shove that would make any scribe wince makes sure they're thoroughly stuffed into the bag, and you turn to grab one side of the window. Already ahead of you, Staff has swung over the head and hangs from the facework of the building.

You can make out words through the doorway for the first time, "I have come to believe that there is more to this man than a mere factor of a rich princeling," says one voice, a woman with a wolfish tone, low, velvet and growly.

"He was just a good man!" comes the worried voice of the caretaker matron, her voice higher and less refined.


Please roll Dex+Stealth, to avoid alerting the people on the other side f the door, and Dex+Athletics, as you leap from the window.


Guardian,

The woman, whose name she has still not shared, looks down at the notes in front of her. "To examine the body yourself?" she asks, a dubious expression on her face. She leafs through a page or two, then returns to the top one again before raising her gaze to meet yours.

"The captain of the guard, who placed the hold on the body, could grant you that right. I could, though I admit I do not see a good enough reason to, and my superiors could. At the last, a member of the Council could grant you a writ that would override all these restrictions."

She shrugs, laying the papers down and closing the file. "Now, I have much work to do today, visitor. If you do not wish to view the deceased, I must ask you to leave so that I may continue."

[Jesse Drake]

Being silent is not an easy task for Zakai- he lacks the grace that a proper thief might need to do so- however, landing was nothing- [roll0] Stealth and [roll1] Athletics

[Kris Strife]

Guardian nods and gets up. "Well, thank you for your time. I'll be back with that clearance." He'd head outside, tracing the path he took to get this far. Once outside, he'd take a moment to adjust to the light before looking around for a guard.

[Kurrel]

Zakai,

Small knick knacks clatter to the floor along with the swish of papers as you hurry past one of the tables. That is more than enough to alert one of those on the other side of the door and you hear the hiss of a sword being drawn. A glance over your shoulder just before you leap shows a woman in armour shoving the door open behind you. That brief glance shows full plate and a drawn sword, along with long, blonde hair and focussed, intense blue eyes.

Leaping down, you hit the soft ground of the garden without trouble and roll easily, coming to your feet as Staffa runs ahead and up the wall, calling and chattering at you to hurry up. You hear a yell to stop from the window above and behind you...

Guardian,

The woman nods amiably, "When you are ready." she murmurs, before calling in one of the youngsters, who leads you outside.

Once out in the sun, the noise of the city assaults your senses again after the relative quiet of the mortuary. It's not hard to spot guards, as there are some stationed in watch over the building itself. They aren't the most intimidating in the world, ill groomed and sleepily tucked into their wooden watchposts. Ignored by and large, you watch as one lazily scratches at his expansive belly.

[Jesse Drake]

Zakai scrambles towards the wall, and then quickly leaps up it, and "flies" over. "Boy- this is just one big mistake- I hope it doesn't come back to bite me in the butt!" Even the voice in his head is screaming. But thoughts aside, Zakai really just hopes something he took would be useful to the others- otherwise, he'd be a criminal for nothing.

[Calimos]

Titan nods approvingly to the old man and replies kindly.
"Thank you sir. Please extend our thanks to your master for agreeing to see us. We are honoured".

[Kurrel]

Zakai,

You leap effortlessly up to the wall that surrounds the garden, satchel slung across one shoulder. Staffa scaled the wall a moment ahead of you, chattering all the way in the excitement of the moment and turns to gesture for you to hurry. He gives a screech of surprise and points back into the garden when he looks back as you sail over him, then turns to leap to you as you descend.

The blonde, armoured woman has leapt from the same window as you were at a moment ago. Her armour clearly weighs a great deal, but she lands in a crouched position that seems to take all the impact, looking up after you and calling out, "HALT!" before launching herself forwards in a leap that covers the entire garden. While not quite as far reaching as your own leap, there is absolutely no way she could do that unassisted.


Titan, Serpents and Skies,

The servant simply nods graciously, and steps aside to gesture for you to go ahead of him. There is a lull in conversation surrounding the young man as you all approach, while for his part he scowls a little and sits up. "You'll have to forgive me..." he says with a mocking little smile, "I seem to have invited you yet I find I don't recall any of you at all."

"Perhaps I'm just mistaken and we've met before, so I beg your indulgence in reminding me exactly who you are and why I might be interested even a little?" he adds, gesturing around with a swift motion.

[Kris Strife]

Guardian sighs and takes his time, looking around the city for a guard who at least looks like they know what they're doing before approaching them. "Excuse me, I wish to speak with the guard captain."

[Jesse Drake]

Zakai freaks out. "I knew it wasn't gonna be easy- but what should I do? I can't expose myself here!" He looks for another high top area- he'll climb as far as possible if he has to- or perhaps another high wall- maybe he can lose her.

[Calimos]

Titan moves forth, bringing his full stature to bear, before this man, the so-called Smiling Nikaram, thinking that he's aptly named due to his mocking smile.

"The reason for our visit, will be revealed shortly to you, Smiling Nikaram. Suffice it to say that we are not here to waste the valuable time of a man of your place and prestige. My name is Adamant Titan and i wanted - alongside my companions here - to secure an audience with you for a serious matter. We haven't met before, to answer your question nor would we probably meet if not for this dire matter that brought us to your otherwise lovely and full of life city of Imantaris.

What brought us here, in your city and in your presence, is the unexpected and most untimely death of Selevaris, a dear friend, a man of trust and almost a mentor to some of us. This man, found dead a few days ago, worked for you, in a position of trust as i came to undestand and therefore we're here, apart from exchanging condolensces for the mutual loss, in order to discover what may have happened that led to such a disastrous outcome for our friend's life.

We'd really appreciate it if you could spare some of your valuable time and try to remember any relevant details, perhaps any noteworthy events or threats to our friend or your enterprise that could lead us to certain coclusions regarding who and why might have interest in ending his life and discover the motives behind such an act. Your help could be paramount to the uncovering of this incident and rest assured that we will never forget any assistance given by you.

You have the word of me, the Adamant Titan, that if you help us in this situation then if you ever find yourself in dire need or grave danger, i will do my best to stand at your side".


If applicable at this situation i'd like to try a Charisma+Presence roll in order to see if i can adequately convince him of our good and honest intentions and persuade him to share with us any information he might have.
So, Charisma+Presence, also using a temporary point of Willpower to get an additional success. [roll0]

[Kurrel]

Zakai

As you look around, you can see that most of the buildings here are surrounded by walled gardens. Going from garden to garden is an easy way to hide visibility and possibly lose the woman pursuing you. Otherwise, if you get up to the walls and run along them, it might make it harder to pursue you.

Behind you, you see a hand clutch at the wall and help propel the woman onto it, where she balances in a crouched position with relative ease. One thing is for certain, she is unable to jump as high as you, even scaling the wall to Selevaris' garden does not appear to have inconvenienced her too much.


Either way, can you make a strength+athletics rolls, assisted by any charms you care to use in order to leap up or over the walls. Please let me know whether you leap over walls and into gardens or run along them instead.


Titan, Serpents and Skies,

As Titan begins speaking, Smiling Nikaram pays close attention, eyes narrowed and smile mocking as he appears waiting to pounce on even the smallest mistake.

However, when Selevaris' name is mentioned he loses some of the malicious edge and sits back a little. He appraises the three of you with more genuine interest, though his emotions and thoughts are less obvious than the spiteful humour of a moment ago.


To read him better, all present may make a Perception+Investigation roll]


As Titan finishes, Smiling Nikaram gives a little shrug of one shoulder and runs one hand through his hair. "Most here know that there is an aggressive princeling making forays into markets I consider my own. He has taken it upon himself to move our contest from a trade war into a shadow conflict. My factors are murdered, my guards are bribed and my shipments destroyed."

He looks at the group, "Selevaris was perhaps my best factor and he had already survived three attempts upon his life. He never seemed unduly worried and assured me he was more than capable despite his mortality."

[Kurrel]

Guardian,

As you move through the city, you notice there's a pretty distinct lack of quality in the city guards. You see some sitting in the open areas of taverns while in uniform and others snoozing in guard posts. They're arms and armour are poorly kept and handled.

By contrast, there seem to be a dazzling variety of house and personal guards, each with their own standards of equipment. Some in bright colours and decorative weapons, some hard-bitten with worn but well-used armaments.

However, all that changes when you see a squad of men moving with intent and purpose through the crowds. While they wear the same colours and heraldry as the other city guards you've seen, these are a different kind of guard entirely.

Their weapons are well kept, carried with the kind of familiarity only long training can bring and their eyes are keen and aware as they scan the area around them. They move in a squad of 5, a sergeant and 4 rank and file. In addition to the city guard emblem, you see they have three blue stars enameled on their left pauldrons (metal shoulder guards).

[Jesse Drake]

"Well, it's time to start monkeying around." Zakai says, smiling at Staffa. He swoops him up and activates his Monkey Leap Technique, using his own personal essence this time. Then, he starts leaping away- behind walls, running through gardens, then over another wall... he tries to do it as fast as possible.

[roll0] And double my jump- I don't know if it meant pre or post roll, so I didn't do it yet.

[Calimos]

Titan looks deep into Smiling Nikaram's eyes, the veteran gladiator measuring the sly trader up and down like he used to do back in his days in the arena.
What he hears from him makes him even more suspicious regarding the fate that befell his dear friend and mentor and brings out even more determination to pursue this to its end.

Damn...he never liked that bloody merchant princes, all scheming, dishonorable, jade-loving scum, wrapped up in their nice clothes and pretentious entourage.

"Well, if you're certain, sir, that this antagonist of yours is the one to blame and had repeatedly attempted to mess your business and assassinate our common friend then i believe we might indeed be of service. All we'll need is probably a bit more information, regarding his alleged whereabouts, base of operations, what kind of "protection" he employs etc. Then we'll conduct our own research and most probably take care of this troublemaker, making sure your business endeavours go better and our own goal of uncovering our friend's assassination is achieved".

[Kurrel]

Titan, Serpents and Skies,

Smiling Nikaram returns Titan's gaze with a frank smile and an almost flippant regard. He gives a leisurely and dismissive gesture of one hand, "You misunderstand me, my large and dangerous visitor. There is a compact between the trade princes that we do not attempt to kill each other. If it were not so, I would not be able to enjoy today in such open fashion."

He runs one hand through his hair, pushing it back and out of his face, "Let me make it clear, going after Kayrand himself is not an option and I will remember your name if any ill does now befall him. I can point you to some of his factors and businesses, though I rather imagine that you don't find the world of intrigue quite as satisfying as some do. Personally, I'd rather just be making money." he adds with a laugh.

"I would like to see Selevaris' killer brought to a fitting end nontheless. If you can restrain yourselves as I have made clear, I am even willing to offer some of my resources in helping you track down whoever might have been responsible. There are a few clues, but I'm afraid I won't share until we have settled terms to rely upon."


Zakai,

With an easy spring, you vault over another wall. There are startled gasps from both sides, the passerby who see you leap away and the workers tending the garden. A few half heartedly shake their rakes and gardening utensils at you but it's clear they've no intention of following.

You see the woman gracefully scaling the wall behind you, again not quite making the height and having to vault the last part of the wall with raw skill. She poises on the wall for a moment as she looks for you, then leaps effortlessly from the wall to chase after you.

It quickly becomes clear, however, that she is unable to keep up with you. She can't quite clear each wall while you hurtle over each one with an easy amusement, Staffa chattering in excitement each time and clinging to you for dear life. It takes a little while, but it is inevitable that you finally lose her and land in a back alley tucked away from a busy street before ambling into the foot traffic and blending in.

[Calimos]

"I'm pleased to see that it is your wish to uncover Selevaris's killer and bring him or her to justice. Truth be told i wouldn't also like to cause any unnecessary unrest in the city so i'll try to restrain myself and act accordingly. Let us proceed then and settle these terms you mentioned".

[Kris Strife]

Guardian waits and watches the guards with insignia, waiting for an opportune moment to approach them. Once he has a chance, he walks up to them, hands visible. "Excuse me, I need to speak with your captain regarding the death of a friend of mine."

[Kurrel]

Titan, Serpents, Skies,

Smiling Nikaram nods and leans to one side, kissing one of the woman who were lounging with him before giving an exaggerated sigh and pulling himself to his feet. Giving a lazy yawn, arms outstretched, he turns to scoop up his goblet of wine before turning and gesturing towards the building. "I should be back in a few moments, my gentle friends." he says to the group surrounding him.

He leads you all into the building where, once the door is closed, he sets aside the goblet untouched on a nearby table and strides ahead with a much more direct focus. "If you've the steel to carry out your words, I may be able to help you out." he says over his shoulder, turning right to start climbing a flight of stairs two at a time.

Going up two floors and coming out onto an open plan room with airy windows and filmy curtains, decorated like a lounge but with maps everywhere, he walks over to pull one map out in particular. He scans it, then sets it aside and takes up a scroll which he takes over to another table and sets his signature and seal to.

This, he brings to you, "This is a marque, it means that I lend you my support but you are not beholden to me. If you break the laws, it offers no protection but it will help you reach people and places that might normally be barred to you. I offer you no more support than this, unless you can bring me results. If you are able to find information for me regarding Selevaris' death, or even who his killer might be, my support will become more substantial."

"I am giving you this much on the strength of your stated friendship with Selevaris. If I discover you were lying to me, 'honourable' Titan, things will not go so well next time we meet." he adds.


Guardian,

The guards definitely seem to be heading somewhere rather than simply on patrol and so, before they pass by, you approach them. When you hail them, the leader nods with a curt but polite motion, "Please state your business quickly, warrior, we've duties to attend." Behind him, the others form come to a halt in formation and the barest display of impatience.

When you ask to meet with the captain, the man nods and points down the street they were coming from. "Follow this street, then take the main road that splits the city from gate to palaces. You'll see the guard citadel as you follow it. She takes a personal interest in the city goings on, though, and you may have to wait. The only time I can promise she's at her offices is morning and dusk. She'll spend the evening training and attending paperwork."

The man looks you up and down, then shrugs. "She tries to make a moment for all who come to the offices, but things are busy right now and you may have to speak to a lieutenant. Now, if you'll excuse us, there's work that needs doing and the slops that fill the rest of the guard will most likely be watching until we arrive."

[Jesse Drake]

Zakai breathes easy. "Boy- that was something else, huh Staffa?" He scratches the monkey's head perhaps a bit too hard, but not enough to hurt him. "Well- let's see- we're probably in trouble for that. We should find the others."

[Kris Strife]

Guardian follows the directions that were given to him by the guards, double checking to make sure he has the right building. Once there, he'd spend some time to look for a guard who seemed both competent and in a decent mood before approaching them. "Excuse me, I need to speak with your captain."

[Kurrel]

Zakai,

With your escape made, the only place you can be sure to find your fellows is the inn. When you return, however, the innkeep will tell you that several have decided that the murder is a mundane issue and not worth their attentions. They have checked out, content to go their own way.

It is clear that not everyone has left, though, and they should return later. For now, though, you have a satchel bulging with scrolls and the like. Staffa has been trying to get into it the whole way bag, reaching and tugging at the flaps whenever he feels your attention has wondered far enough.


Guardian,

The citadel that the guard mentioned is impossible to miss once you are on the right road. A defensive building in every way, there is a large, crenelated building in the center of a walled off training yard. The entire thing is built for solidity, practical in it's grey stone lines.

The road towards it is wide and well paved, teeming with people, wagons and other vehicles, mingled in between each other with people yelling to be heard over the racket.

By contrast, when you turn off the street and step through the gate, the sound is one step removed. You can heard the strike of metal from men and woman training in the yard in addition to the muted noise that comes over the walls.

One of several guards intercepts you before you can go to much further into the training area, "Warrior, may I be of assistance?" he enquires. You can see that he, like the soldiers you spoke to earlier, wears the star emblem in addition to the standard guard insignias. Looking around, you can see a flag fluttering and snapping in the breeze, proudly displaying a more elaborate version of the same. At a glance, it would seem all here are from the same guard regiment.

When (and assuming that you do) you ask for his commander, he says that she is currently out on business. "If you are willing to wait until she returns, please come with me." Assuming that you follow, he leads you into a building set near the gatehouse. It is a simple, single story building separated across the training yard from the citadel itself.

Opening a door, he gestures for you to enter and join the several scribes, citizens and other claimants who are waiting on long benches. A cask of water is in one corner and hard breads are available to sate the patient queues.

Dusk comes and is beginning to settle into full night before the door at the opposite end of the room is opened and a man steps forth. He gestures for the nearest to enter and, in short order the dozen or so claimants are being worked through.

[Calimos]

Adamant Titan looks at Smiling Nikaram's eyes with an almost penetrating glance and the sound of his last words seems to stung him like a thousand bees together.
What would you know of honour and sincerety you bloody pampered, two-faced, hypocritic, thieving, sceming son of...Titan thinks, but manages to hold his tongue, and relax his already flexing arm, realizing that any incident would not only affect himself but also his companions and any potential to uncover what truly happened to their mentor and friend. His face calms again and responds kindly to his host.

"We are truly honoured Smiling Nikaram. We will try to use this marque wisely and we'll update you as soon as we have sustantially progressed. And if my word can have any value for someone of a high position such as you, i tell you that i'm no liar and i'll do my best to uncover the circumstances of Selevaris' death and those behind it. Thank you gain for your time and assistance. May we meet again on better circumstances".

Titan then turns and leaves, heading back to the inn, in order to get some rest and discuss with his companions their next course of action.

[Kris Strife]

Guardian patiently waits his turn, giving a few diagnoses to those with injuries or illnesses that would be painfully obvious to any one with some medical training, and treatments that are at much the same level. He does not take any money or physical possessions, simply asking for them to return the favor by assisting the next person they could.

Basically just limps, and visible rashes and infections, cures given are basic exercises for limps, and herbs or poultices that are the most commonly given, correct treatment for the condition.

[Jesse Drake]

"Are you ready to go to sleep Staffa? Well, I suppose I could get a room for you- and to hide this stuff..." Zakai heads to the innkeeper to get a room for the night.

[Kurrel]

Titan,
Smiling Nikaram looks like he suspects at least a little of what is going through your mind, wearing a slightly sardonic smile as he ushers you from the rooms. As you descend the stairs, he calls over a servant and tells the man to escort you out of the building.

Already walking back towards the party, he comes to an abrupt stop and turns to face you, "Would you like transport to your destination?" he says, the thought having just occurred to him. "The city is large and traipsing everywhere on foot can be quite tiresome."


Titan and Zakai,
Regardless of use of transport or not, Titan arrives back a little after Zakai.

Zakai already has a room booked, the innkeeper deferring all payment for the time being. The quarters are not luxurious, however they are well kept, clean and private, with shutters on the windows to keep out any night chills.


Titan returns in time for the evening meal, Zakai can you pose whether you're eating in the open area or in your quarters? Either way, the innkeeper will make a point of approaching Titan to tell him that you are here and that others have left.



Guardian,
Edit : Guardian offers help, had thought you might be mistaken about the place.
When you notice a man rubbing his neck, clearly caused by the manner in which he sits with his head bowed over the notes in his book, you offer some help. Until this point, everyone had been quietly ignoring each other and the man reacts in surprise, and then relief. He listens intently and, by the time you're done giving him advice, a few others ask about their ailments. There's nothing too dire in what they ask, and the free advice gets people talking. The hours don't seem as long, and many offer their genuine thanks as the time passes.

When you are called, it's by a burly armsman with a sergeant's insignia on a tunic. He wears no armours but carries a handaxe from a loop in his belt. He's gruff but polite in a military fashion, asking what your query is as he walks you down a short corridor and then going ahead to push open the door for you. He leans his head in, giving a brief summary of what you're asking about before nodding his head for you to enter and closing the door behind you.

Inside you find a sturdy desk of beautifully polished wood, worn smooth with time, carries an ornate paper lantern that sheds light against the growing darkness. A map of the city adorns one wall, accurate but also adorned with imagery that makes it both utility and artwork. There is another door behind the desk, and a cupboard that reaches floor to ceiling in one corner.

At the desk, a woman sits opposite where you come in. Her hair is a light blonde, clearly long but currently worn up with a long, white-jade pin. She is wearing black breeches and ankle boots along with a white lace shirt that is tight at cuffs and collar, with both shirt and breeches embroidered in gold.

When you enter, she has the fingers of one hand spread across her face, chin resting in the palm of her hand. Tired or mulling over something, when you enter she opens her eyes and regards you as she gestures towards a seat wordlessly.

[Jesse Drake]

Zakai orders a whole roasted fowl and plenty of green vegetables. "I love fish, but it's all I eat at home." He shovels torn off pieces of chicken into his mouth, and occasionally grabs some of the vegetables and masticates them for a moment, mixing the flavors with the chicken still in his mouth.

Staffa eats away at some of the vegetables, only stopping to pick pieces of fallen food off of Zakai. The two are perfect together, eating the bird as quick as possible. Upon seeing Titan, he asks "Are you hungry? I could order you something." Clearly, he's not sharing his food.

[Calimos]

Titan bows ever so slightly and answers in a polite manner.
"That would be most appreciated, thank you indeed sir for your kind thought".
Then awaits for the transportation vehicle to get back to the inn.

[Kurrel]

Smiling Nikaram is true to his word, calling a servant over. You can almost see the men carrying the palanquin curse under their breath when your immense form steps out of the building. A massive warrior rather than some light piece of eye candy always makes their day harder.

[ Feel free to elaborate on your actions when returning to the inn, Titan. Just waiting on that before continuing, Zakai.]

[Kris Strife]

Guardian sits down in the indicated seat, setting his bag of medical tools on the floor beside him. He looks at her for a moment before speaking. "You already know the reason I've come here, so I don't need to go over that at least. I think we're both interested in the same information, and I would be happy to share anything I gain from the examination."

[Calimos]

Titan, seeing the look on the servants' faces, looks upon them sympathetically and then laughs heartily, his muscular frame visibly shaking. After a few seconds he regains his composure and looks back at their probably puzzled faces.
"Don't worry guys, i'm not going to put you into this exhausting procedure of carrying me all the way back to my destination. I can perfectly handle much more than a simple walk in a city in terms of exhausting activities. If it's not too much to ask though, i'd like someone to escort me back, only to have the chance to tell me some more things about your city. It's been merely a day or so since i arrived and i'd like to know more about it. For example if there's some proper gladiatorial activity going on, what would be the best place to find decent drinks and, why not, pretty ladies. Travelling tends to be gruelling at times and everyone can use some rest once in a while".

Having said that, Titan waits to see if anyone would join him on the walk back to the inn and then starts heading back there.

After he arrives, Titan thanks the servant and enters the inn.
The day was long and tiring - if not physically, at least emotionally, since handling the issue of a mentor's death, never suits someone well. Titan checks his panther, to see how jis animal companion is doing and then goes to order some food from the innkeeper.

Seeing others from his companions already in there, he takes his food and goes to join them, greeting them heartily and narrating how his meeting with Smiling Nikaram went, about the antagonizing merchants of the city, as well as about the note Smiling Nikaram gave him and the possibility of help from their mentor's boss, in case they make any progress with their investigation.

[Jesse Drake]

Zakai doesn't look up from his food, but listens intensely to what Titan has to say, occasionally making the situational appropriate face to his food. "Ha ha- well I think I accidentally broke into the dead guy's house... and maybe alerted someone." Zakai takes a look left and right, and then maybe tries to whisper "Plus, I think she might be like us... she followed me- not too good- but for a good minute there."

He continues eating his grub, grabbing a piece of bread to sop some of the food together. Staffa takes a piece off the bread as he's chewing it, and does the same with a single kernel of corn.

[Kurrel]

Titan,
The men are relieved by your largess but none can accompany you as they work as a team and for any single one to go would stop the rest from earning a ride's pay. One does call over his son, a young man, who is working as a water boy amongst the bearers. It is this individual who accompanies you through the city, talking eagerly about the city.

Gladiatorial games are put on frequently in the city and are heavily bet upon. It seems that most of these are slave fights, though free people are allowed to enter. Besides that, there appear to be a great many sports and pastimes in this city, indeed anything that money can change hands over, and your guide seems to have a gambler's knowledge of most of them.


Titan, Zakai,
By the time Titan enters, the inn is boisterous with the dinner crowd. As much a restaurant as a bar, the tables in the center are busy with people and the family-staff of the establishment are hurrying back and forth. The food is good and wholesome, hot and fresh. Drink is served liberally with most meals, and the table is arrayed with a comfortable array of food and drink to satisfy.

Staffa is the first to spot Titan's approach, raising up and tugging at a lock of Zakai's hair to indicate his approach. There's more than enough room for the pair, and you are able to share your activities with each other in relative private.

The panther itself is sprawled out in one of the corners of the bar, though when Titan returns the animal comes to his feet and pads over. An affectionate rub of head and shoulders against follows, before the panther hops up so that it's forepaws rest upon the table, looking curiously at the food... which Staffa meets with indignation, the smaller creature batting and swiping at the muzzle of the feline.


Guardian,
Lifting her head, the woman fixes you with a steely gaze, her expression watchful. "There seems to be a great deal of interest in the death of a man who, until now, seemed of such little notice. The murder itself, the first and second breakins at his home, and now you. I begin to wonder who our kindly money man really was."

She waves a hand, "Anyways!" She says, dismissing her own personal thoughts for the moment. Considering you, she looks you up and down and weighs what she sees, "You call yourself a physician, yet you have the build and bearing of a warrior. How is it that you came to know this 'Selevaris'?" she asks directly.


Her appearance is effectively 3. The difference between your appearance and hers is applied as a penalty or bonus to the MDV of the character.
Can you roll manipulation+presence (+charms or otherwise.) roll to secure access to the body. Gain +1 bonus for props of your doctors bags and an offhand comment by the guard when he entered that you were treating people in the common room.
Also please calculate your mental defence of choice against her investigation.

[Kris Strife]

"Its a dangerous world out there ma'am. I don't always have the time to wait for a caravan, or the resources to hire sell-swords before I have to travel to a community. As for how I know him? He was a good friend, helped me when I was starting out and gave me financial backing for lessons and resources when I didn't have my own."

Can't remember how to roll multiple dice and have them all show up, so here it goes, roll to get a viewing of the body:
Manipulation: [roll0]
Presence: [roll1]
[roll2]
[roll3]
[roll4]
Bonus: [roll5]

The Dice hate me.

And my defense is a whopping 5, I have an appearance of 3 as well.

[Jesse Drake]

Zakai looks at Titan and asks "Should I be worried? I mean- I did kind of get caught. And that woman... I wonder what her connections with Selvaris was..." Zakai keeps munching away, even talking with food in his mouth. "So, what should we do?"

[Kurrel]

Guardian,

Your answer is short and to the point and although she regards you for a moment, expecting you to explain further, she does not probe your reasons further.

When she asks why you want to see the body, your skillful words and reasonings seem to sway her, because she eventually nods and sits back in her chair. Raising one hand to cover her eyes, clearly somewhat tired, she gestures with the other, "I will make sure you get to see the body. Come here at 4 bells tomorrow and either I or an escort will be waiting to accompany you."

It is unusual for a captain to take a personal interest and from this and other subtle cues you are able to deduce that she has more interest in this than 'yet another murder'. Why it's important is not clear, nor whether the interest is official or personal.

Sitting forwards again, she barks a command for her attendant, who opens the door behind your chair. "Unless there was something else, I believe we are done here..." she suggests, as the sergeant waits with the door held open expectantly.

- Unless you've more to add, you can head back to the inn and catch up with Zakai for the conversation, as Titan is going to be away a bit.


Zakai and Titan,

There's not much advice to be had, as neither of you are sure who the person was. Zakai's meal is just finished when food for Titan arrives, and he proceeds to eat as well.

[Kris Strife]

Guardian nods and stands up, bowing in thanks. "Thank you very much ma'am. Hopefully I can help you figure out who did this." He starts to leave, then stops, turning back around. "A second break in? Did anyone get a look at who it was?"

[Kurrel]

The captain has already taken up some notes and doesn't even look up as you ask your question, "Until I have a resolution, that will remain Watch business." she says crisply.

[Jesse Drake]

Zakai stretches after his meal. "Woah- that was good. I've got to remember to import some of these back home!" He smiles, and makes a cluck sound to his plate. Then he turns to Staffa. "So- what now little buddy? How about an after dinner jog. Let's go, 1-2."

[Kris Strife]

Guardian nods, picking up his things. "That's reasonable enough. Thank you again for your help, I hope we'll figure out who did this soon." He'd leave the same way he came in, heading back to the inn, looking to see who's returned from their own investigations.

[Kurrel]

By the time Guardian leaves the citadel, night is falling. Lanterns are being lit as he walks down the streets yet the city remains highly active. Not quite the crush of the morning, the traffic is easier to navigate and so Guardian is soon at the inn to join his friends.

In the meantime, Titan has taken his leave to enter the city to follow up on news he has heard of nightly gladiator games that can be entered on the spot rather than weeks in advance.

As Guadian enters,, Zakai and Staffa are enjoying the last remains of the food and trying to decide what to do with their ill gotten gains that even now sit upstairs. The place remains busy, early dinner patrons being replaced by people here for both food, drink and performance. A man has begun to recite a ballad, his voice clear and strong if not particularly noteworthy otherwise.

[Jesse Drake]

"Oh- hey guys!" Zakai will fill Guardian and Faelkun in about the evening- particularly the other possible Exalt. He'll try to avoid the word "Thief", especially not saying he stole anything on purpose.

Random Person
Since you weren't here, he snuck up into the room by leaping, stole some odd papers, and leaped out the window. Then he ran off, and was chased by some female Exalt.

[Fortuna]

I... see. Your time seems to have been more productive than mine. All I was able to find was a few rumours to the effect that the merchants are gearing up for war, and that the captain of the guard has taken a particular interest in our friend's... unfortunate fate. In fact, she has visited the house personally at least thrice, and since my source doesn't camp outside it or sleep on the doorstep I think we can safely say more than that.

[Kris Strife]

Guardian sighs and shakes his head, leaning in and whispering. "Well, I want to take a look at those papers, but I think we should see about purchasing as much of his estate as we can manage. It'll give us a base of investigations outside of this inn. Don't get me wrong, its acceptable, but we can't exactly speak freely without ruining our friend's business. I doubt any one of us could afford it alone, but if we were to pool our cash, we should be able to get it. Gives us a chance to go through the place at a pace of our choosing. And it'll let us set up a proper welcome for the other one you saw. I have to be at the main guard station at 4 bells tomorrow to get a viewing and hopefully an investigation of the body. I don't know how long it'll take and the guard captain knows my face, I think we should send someone else to make the purchase. I heard about another break in there, so the sooner we purchase it the better."

[Fortuna]

"Agreed. I suspect that someone else should likely take care of the negotiations, but I have a tidy sum of silver stashed away that I could donate to the cause. As for me... does anyone know when the memorial service is planned for?" A slight smile creeps across Faelkun's face.

[Jesse Drake]

"Hm... I guess I should probably do something- and I've got money. But how much do you think we'll need?"

[Kurrel]

Any sort of funeral will be held back until the body is released, naturally. However, Imantaris traditions have it that the house of the deceased is opened to those who wish to express their sympathies as soon after the death as possible.

The doors are opened at midday and then shut at dusk. This tradition is continued until 13 days have passed or noone has visited for an afternoon, whichever comes first. It is considered a good sign if there are visitors for all 13 days.

The murder has obviously delayed things but it is likely to start very soon as superstition is widely held that if this tradition is put off for too long or skipped entirely then the ghost of the deceased may haunt the home out of anger. It would likely have to start tomorrow or the day after.


The ghost in this case would be the lower soul, before you think of questioning it. ;)


Selevaris had no family that you are aware of and in such a case the city will have taken ownership of it. Sale would likely be organised through them.

The things that Zakai grabbed are jumbled together and disorganised. A jumble of things swept off of a desk in hasty motions now lays scattered across where he emptied his bag. Beautiful ornaments, penned notes, papers and maps are all mixed together along with an inkwell, luckily well sealed.


Anyone wishing to look through it can make an Intelligence+Investigation roll. Anyone after the first takes a cumulative -1 die modifier for the number of searches conducted.

[Calimos]

Titan continues his walk around the city of Imantaris, enjoying the relative calmness of night, thinking also that during the night it is that many would seek to harm the people of Creation, trying to take advantage of not being in the all encompassing presence and radiance of the Unconquered Sun and thus act unhindered. During these times it is most imperative for those who are the chosen champions of Sol Invictus, to be alert and ever ready to stand in defence of the population and of Creation as a whole.

It is not only the night of the physical world that the Chosen must fight, but also the metaphorical night that is covering the souls of many people across the breadth and length of Creation. Their misplaced trust, their petty motives, their vanity, their selfishness and ruthlesness, all consitute a veil of darkness that hinders them from acting properly as a unified and proper society, under the august rule of the Sun's Chosen and the ultimate protection, authority and guidance of Sol Invictus. It is his duty, among other things, to ignite a spark in their hearts, to pierce the veil of darkness and ignorance covering these souls and show them a new way of life under the all encompassing divine light of the Unconquered Sun.

But this is difficult and at most times people respect only what they can perceive with their own senses, only what they can understand with their diminished and materially focused perception. Thus he must excel as a martial champion for whom honour in the arena and in life is paramount and consequently, through his own example, lead all those people to the correct path in their lives.

To this end and also to get his mind a bit off from the death of his deceased mentor, Titan continues his search for the -not so- "forbidden fruits" of Imantaris' nightlife, be it a gladiatorial match, where his relative renown in the region might get him a spot in, or the sensuous embrace of a courtesan or another pretty lady, that will indulge him and allow him to regain his energy for the coming days. Perhaps he may find some decent opponents to test his mettle against, improving his own skills in the process, maybe even one or two eager young students in the appearance of rookie gladiators and also a lady to form a somewhat more lasting relationship with, given that the investigation for Selvaris' murder might confine him to the city for an indeterminate amount of time.

[Kurrel]

I'm presuming noone takes a look at the papers, as noone has declared and rolled for it.


Titan explores the city for a little while, foiling a mugging of an elderly woman before finding his way into an informal fight ring. The opponents are little more than youngsters and dock hands, the spectators of much the same cloth. The winnings are pitiful, but he maintains an unbroken streak for as long as he cares to participate and there are a few who walk away delighted by their winnings. Certainly, word should spread quickly of these victories.

The money is enough to buy a night spent in one of the minor brothels that line the docks and back streets of the cities, but there are few woman who stir the eye amongst such places and Titan eventually finds his way back to the inn, as yet unsatisfied for these desires.

- END OF NIGHT -

During the night, it has begun to rain and the day dawns with the constant patter of raindrops on the roof of the inn. The food is fresh breads and cheeses, while mulled wine or coffee are offered for drink. These are served in the main room, with the clientele being almost exclusively lodgers.

Staffa is restless, waking Zakai up well before sunrise and constantly running back and forth, leaping from dresser to window and onto the bed. He appears simply excited by the new city rather than worried, insisting on play and on an early start.

The panther that accompanies Titan stirs from sleep when one of the serving opens the door to announce that breakfast is being served. She gives a short scream, slamming the door and running down the stairs... it is well an hour before she can be coaxed back upstairs.

The city is offering Selevaris' possessions for auction. If one cared to, one can buy both property and all found inside it for a lump sum. Otherwise, one must wait for the mourning period to finish before sitting through the auction of individual items.


Selevaris did not flaunt wealth nor own immense property. He lived comfortably but under the radar and, as such, there does not appear to be anything of immense value amongst his possessions.
As such, Resources 3 will buy everything in one go, but will leave you broke for the rest of the month. No more purchases. At 2 points of resources, 1 point can be sacrificed for the same effect.


The downpour is solid, such that most everyone is wearing hoods and capes, heads bowed against the water. The gutters gush with small floods, carrying away the trash of the city and, early in the day, the stench of the disturbed filth is unpleasant. Still, an hour or two of the rain leaves the city almost fresh smelling as everything is washed away.

[Fortuna]

Faelkun chooses to go without his disguise today, making his way to the auction. He ignores the rain, enjoying its cool touch, and arrives at the auction-house happy but drenched.

[Calimos]

Titan walks alongside Faelkun, eschewing the flimsy protection of a hood, even though he wears a long cloak. He prefers to feel the rain in his face, to "cool him down" a bit as he jokingly says to lift his companion's spirits a bit. As he walks towards the auction, he prays to his Divine Patron that as the rain cleanses the land of all taint and clears the sky so His Light may shine brighter afterwards, so may it be that clarity comes to them in order for them to discern the true motives behind their mentor's death and bring the perpetrator's to justice.

[Kris Strife]

Guardian would have pitched in about half of his on hand money towards purchasing the house the night before, coming in to sit in their usual area, choosing coffee to go with his meal. He'd listen to the weather, hoping it would lighten up at least a little before he had to go. He'd speak with any of the others that chose to wait before leaving at third bell, bag of medical equipment in hand. He'd head to the guard house as quickly as possible, stepping inside and going to the main desk. "I know I'm a bit early, but I have an appointment with the captain for four bells. No rush, but if you'd let her know I'm here, I'd be grateful."

[Kurrel]

If at any point you interrupt the following, just let me know where and we'll break off to there. For example, asking more questions of the clerk at the front desk or demanding more of the guards. I thought I'd put some things together in a sequence to help things move along and let you interrupt or embellish as needed.

Faelkun and Titan,

While both the Solars may enjoy the rain, Titan's companion clearly does not. Head bowed, fur utterly soaked, the panther walks besides Titan so that he is between panther and Faelkun. As they walk towards their destination, he stops and pauses to futilely shake himself, sending a shower of water in every direction before giving a frustrated growl and catching up with Titan.

The offices to which you both come are practically empty today, maybe as a result of the foul weather. The building is grand but not particularly well suited to the weather and inside is almost as cold as outside as draughts whistle through the large arch that leads into the building. Behind a counter, a short, ugly little man behind is busy writing on copious lengths of scroll.

Upon seeing the three of you dripping on the marble floors, he raises an eyebrow and, after a momentary regard, hops off his seat and walks around the counter. "Come." he says tersely, walking to one side and opening a door. He gestures you inside, to a room with stone benches against the walls. There is a brazier in every corner, making the room dry and hot; "Stay here until your dry, then come and see me again." notes the man. The only other occupant, a mild-manner man with a bunch of notes in an oil-cloth wrapped bundle, greets you politely but departs soon after, apparently already almost dry. The panther throws itself down in the centre and almost immediately starts purring.

When you are all dry, approaching him again gets much the same brief treatment as he takes your details and asks you to make your mark, either signature or an X, on the paper before giving you a wooden panel with a white skull and yellow coin printed on it. "Show the clerks this, they'll direct you on." Through the buildings corridors you are sent, eventually ending up in a draughty but well appointed office with an ancient and spectacled man sitting at a desk.

"What is your business?" he asks with a faint but precise voice, thin and liverspotted hands clasped together on the desk.


Guardian,

The coffee is raw and bitter, served hot in heavy clay mugs. As you sip it and wait for the rain to dwindle, Titan and Faelkun depart without seeming to worried about the deluge. Periodically, the bells indicating the passage of the day are rung and all the while rain seems to continue without any sign of easing.

At third bell and without sign of break in the weather, you set off and work your way through the streets to return once more to the citadel. The gateway that provided entry into the courtyard of the citadel is relatively dry and the guards stop you there to ask your business. At your request, there is some surprise at your request and a momentary private discussion between the guards.

One of them is sent off shortly, disappearing into the main keep proper and spending about 20 minutes there before returning. He nods to the other guards, as though confirming your request is valid, before coming over to you. "The captain is busy at the moment, but her man-at-arms says she should be here before 4 bells."

The guards seem more interested in you, offering either coffee, whiskey or whiskey in coffee as they ask a few questions about your business and why it warrants the attentions of the captain.


Please roll a social defence of your choice.


When the captain approaches, there are a pair of armoured men to either side of her and she is fully armed in a suit of plate made of silver with blue jade inlays. A cloak of a blue so deep it is nearly back covers one shoulder and hangs down behind her almost to her heels. Her men are armed in plate made of plain steel, complete with full helms, carrying shields and swords. The guards salute crisply as she passes and she nods her briefly before fixing you with her gaze.

"Come," she commands, turning and walking into the street, "Let us see what you have to say about our gentleman Selevaris." She calls for no carriage nor mount, seeming content to walk the streets to her destination.

[Kris Strife]

Guardian takes his coffee plain, wanting to keep his senses clear, and shakes his head. "Sorry, I'd love to tell you, but it is official guard business and if your captain hasn't felt the need to inform you yet, she must have some reason to do so. And sharing information she doesn't want shared might put me in her bad books. All I can safely tell you is that I'm helping you." He sips his coffee, sighing a bit. "Any news from the Blessed Isle lately?"
Mental Parry: Charisma+Presence/2
[roll0]
[roll1]
[roll2]
[roll3]
The question about the Blessed Isle is just small talk while he waits, no need to give any further information.

When the captain arrives, he gives a curt nod at her instructions before following along. "I'll tell you as much as I can. Where would you like to start?"

[Fortuna]

"We are here for the auction of the possessions of a deceased friend of ours, Selevaris."

[Calimos]

Titan nods affirmatively, as well, standing besides Faelkun, his huge, cloaked figure towering over the clerk, happy that for once someone else is doing the talking. Those city clerks always had a special way to irritate him and he wasn't in the mood to make it any worse. After all, he could preach endlessly about the holy radiance and humbling magnificence of the Unconquered Sun, but he wasn't very good in everyday social interactions. Perhaps his looks or demeanour, both mementos of his gladiatorial days, put others somewhat off.

[Kurrel]

Faelkun and Titan,

When Faelkun mentions Selevaris' name, the clerk clearly recognises it. He hmms, clasped hands resting on his desk as he considers you both. With spectacles perched on the edge of a long, wedge-like nose, it is easy to imagine him as a school master as he contemplates you for a moment.

Eventually, "Yes, well..." he begins, turning a bit to the side and drawing a sheet of smooth paper from a pile, each one embossed with a seal at the head. Drawing a quill from one of several sitting in a pot on the table, he licks the tip and then dips it in an inkwell. With smooth, beautiful motions, he starts to write a contract even as he speaks.

"There have been some queries regarding specific valuables but so far noone has wanted to take the entirety and so, if they are to be found, they remain in the house." he says, hunching over his writing. "If you're willing to take it all, it'll save us the effort of cataloguing everything and makes an expedient way to deal with the situation. Your Selevaris left no will nor indication of how to dispose his valuables."

The page having filled up in a remarkably short space of time, he turns the paper round to face you and slides it across the desk. "For your perusal and signing. We accept payment in any denomination found across the Scavenger lands and the coinage of the Blessed Isle itself."

The contract simply states that all is taken as is, with no assurance of the state or quality of any of the possessions to be had.

Guardian,

The guards nod and accept your word, then start to discuss the movements of the Blessed Isle, including whether the loss of Tepet legions is mere propaganda to encourage rebellion. One guard is even convinced the Scarlet Empress orchestrated both this and her own disappearance to give the impression of weakness. The arguments over this easily upset their further enquiry.

During the walk with the captain, she does not speak with you. Instead, she keeps her eyes on the street around her. She watches with a hawk like intensity, her blue eyes never settling for long on any one thing.

The place you are taken is little more than an arch and a stairway down. The arch is decorated abundantly with carved skulls and wreathed in deep, green ivy. The guards are dressed in black and silver motif, almost entirely ceremonial, and salute crisply as the four of you sweep past. The captain gives no acknowledgement, while her two guards nod to those you pass

The stairs lead down to an area that is noticeably colder than the day above. In an area that is lit by a grill set in the ceiling, there are several large stone slabs. You can see dozens of people moving in the background, some carrying bodies and some moving about their own tasks. All of them are wrapped in bindings and hooded.

A brief word between the captain and one of them is followed by a brief wait before Selevaris' body is brought and placed on one of the slabs. He is kept in a white sheet, splattered with blood. His eyes are glassy, faded now, and frost whitens his hair. A single massive wound splits open his chest and there is little to no modesty afforded by the single sheet.

The captain gestures you towards the body, "Here we are, now I am curious as to what you will find that others have not..." she says expectantly.


Let me know what you propose doing and I'll tell you what to roll.

[Fortuna]

Faelkun reads through the contract and spends some time pondering it. Finally, he nods agreement, showing the silver from the pack that he brought with him. "We'll take it, I think. It will do me good to know that his possessions are being kept to remember him, rather than sold to fatten some merchant prince's coffers. May I borrow a pen?"

[Kris Strife]

Kurrel and I have been discussing this via messenger to speed things up.
Guardian sighs a bit as he gets his tools out and beginning to examine the wound, carefully moving the flesh. "First thing I can tell you is that it wasn't a dagger that did this, It wouldn't have shattered the ribs like that, not without breaking, and the wound is too wide for most swords. Width suggests an axe, and while it looks like a slash, this was an impact by a blade, probably a crescent shaped blade. I don't think this wasn't just a simple heat of the moment murder... His heart's been removed, and from the look of it, who ever did it was a strong as they come, it was literally torn from his chest... My first guess would be that he was either murdered by a dragonblood or an anathema... From his expression, I'd say they were either already in his house waiting, or it was someone he though he could trust. I'd like some time to go in more detail, but I'm wondering if your men missed the fact that his heart was torn out?"

[Calimos]

Titan nods in agreement as well, sternly approving of Faelkun's assessment of the contract, letting him handle the bureaucratic details of the transaction.

[Kurrel]

Faelkun and Titan,

At Faelkun's words about not fattening a prince's coffers, the man on the opposite side of the chair gives a mournful little smile, "Ah, my friend, it is my experience that the Princes of Coin always win, whichever side they appear to be backing."

Leaning forwards, he accepts the piece of paper back from you and scans the document before nodding and reaching for a seal. With an authoritative stamp, he gives another satisfied nod and then pauses.

Setting aside the paperwork, he steeples his fingers and regards you. "About the servants... I can have the guards remove them before your arrival? The property is yours as of of sundown today so you can take over any time. If you wish to continue their employ, you will need to speak with them over wages. They have, so far, been paid out of money from the estate."


Guardian,

The captain listens, not giving away much in response. When you are done speaking, she will give a slight nod and then walk up to stand besides you. Glancing dismissively down at the corpse and then back to you, eyes cool, "The morticians informed me the heart had been removed. That it was not a slash is news to me."

Turning away, she looks into the darkness of the catacombs as she crosses her arms. "At least you have the skills you professed." she muses as she stalks a few steps away from the slab. "If it was a friend, it must have been one he was accustomed to seeing with a large weapon... and someone stealthy. Noone has seen such a dramatically armed person entering or leaving."

She shrugs, and then calls for her guards and starts to walk away, before pausing. "Unless you are done here, we should be leaving."

[Calimos]

Titan, leans over Faelkun, whispering to his ear.
"'I'd say it is wise to keep the servants, if only for a few days, since they could be necessary in running the Household - which we can now use as our base of operations - plus the fact that they might now something more regarding the unfortunate circumstances of our earstwhile mentor's demise. What do you think?"

[Fortuna]

"The same thought had crossed my own mind, old friend, and it's entirely possible that some of them will remember their old master's eccentric guests and be well-disposed towards us." Turning back to the clerk, he shakes his head. "No, I think they can be allowed to stay. I assume that their contracts are being kept here, with the other papers important to settling the estate? I shall require those documents, of course. Are there many?"

[Kurrel]

Titan and Faelkun,

The elderly man sits behind his desk, listening over steepled fingers as you talk. When addressed, he will hum thoughtfully and unfold his hands. He swiftly leafs through the notes he has at hand and then sits back in his chair, "Despite his business, the factor Selevaris never kept slaves. They are the only ones that require contracts of sale. Those who work there do so at your whim and you may fire them as and when you need."

He chuckles quietly, "It would seem clear you know the city, but not it's legal workings. Might I surmise that you have visited before but never chosen to live here until now?" he murmurs with a dry smile.

[Fortuna]

Faelkun permits a slight smile to cross his face. "Quite right, my friend. Perhaps I should start getting a bit more acquainted with the local law and custom. At any rate, thank you for your time and help."

[Calimos]

Titan thanks the old clerk as well, following Faelkun's lead afterwards, anxious to see in what shape, the estate of their recently deceased mentor and friend is currently, as well as the disposition of the remaining household staff. At the same time he wonders if the investigation of Guardian and Zakai might wield some interesting results that will help them shed more light on the circumstances of Selevaris murder.

[Kris Strife]

Guardian continues to examine the body of his deceased mentor, responding without looking up. "Well, with some more time, I might be able to tell you a bit more about the weapon and the style of attack. For example, if the weapon's shape or design is unique to a certain form, there might be some sort of indication of it. And once we know how it was crafted, that may help find who made and sold the weapon. Or if the blow used was from a particular school, that would let us know how the murderer was trained, and possibly where. It would take quite some time for me to do that level of examination, and I'm sure you have more important things to do than stand around and watch me work."

[Kurrel]

Titan and Faelkun,

With the affairs of the auction set in order and seemingly no more required, the elderly man calls for a handservant to come in. A young man opens the door, face barely dusted with a beard, and enters at the impatient gesture of his superior. "Take these men to this location," says the man you've both been speaking with, writing a note on a piece of paper and handing it over. "They have bought the property and belongings of the unclaimed noted therein."

He nods curtly to you both, clearly done with you while the younger man goes to the door and waits for you.

The weather has not improved any but it does not appear that this will be the case, as your new companion calls for a palanquin. Introducing himself as 'Melsabat', he is clearly intimidated by both Titan and his feline companion. "Do you worry for your safety, travelling with such dangerous company?" he asks of Faelkun.

The ride is relatively comfortable, though the transport takes a little getting used to. The panther, at first eager to climb into the soft darkness, is left somewhat frustrated when the men carrying it shy away and refuse to carry the creature, looking on fearfully!

When you arrive at the house, there is an elderly woman who meets the three of you at the gate. At first she does not believe that you have bought the place, and then seems a mixture of both relieved and sad at the change. Still, she is definitely glad for her continued employment. "Masters, may I know your names? If I may be so bold, who is to be the head of the house?" she asks, looking between the two as she opens the main door.

The house itself is tastefully appointed, with Selevaris' taste clearly running to sculpture. There are several in the main hall, one that is much larger than life in the center and other pieces in each corner.

"We have a full kitchen, if you need to entertain anyone... though master Selevaris never had large numbers of guests round and so I'd ask a few days grace to get stock and some extra hands to cook, if you're expecting many people."

"There are several bedrooms, though only the master bedroom was used for anything except temporary guests. If you pick a room, I'll make sure linens are pulled out of storage and a bed is made."

She looks on at the panther with some discomfort, "Will... it be staying inside?" she asks tentatively, the use of 'it' drawing a growl from the panther, currently seated at Titan's left.

[Will wait for responses here, and detail more of the house as needed]

Guardian,

The captain gestures for her men to continue on, "Wait outside." she says, and they nod and turn to exit. You can see them taking up position on either wall, giving each passerby a casual look over.

Stalking back to you, the woman puts both hands on the slab holding Selevaris' body and looks down at the wound. Her head raises, gaze meeting yours and her eyes narrowed a little in thoughtful and careful appraisal of your words. "I will make my own decisions as to what is important enough for my time." she says, before gesturing across the corpse.

"It was only after his death that I began to ask questions I probably should have asked while he was alive. He was an unremarkable man, yet I remember seeing him in a number of remarkable places, including the halls of rival trade princes. Often, I would see him on hand to help victims of crime or disaster with an incredible timing, yet never gained a reputation for these acts of kindness."

"His death was unusual, though not unique or greatly important in a city of so many... while he was a factor, true, Nikaram has over two dozen and yet he has personally asked after the investigation. Others have come and gone, some armed and all unique in some fashion." She pauses, regarding you with a level, clear gaze, "Yourself included."

"His house has been burgled; not once, but twice. Whoever this completely low key person was, his end has stirred up such a cacophony I can only conclude that he was anything BUT a nobody."

"So, do continue. I find myself curious."

[Calimos]

"No need to worry lady", Titan says to the elderly woman. "I don't think that me or my companions will burden you excessively during our stay and if we need anything specific we'll make sure to let you know in advance. Probably master Faelkun here will have more to tell you about the details of our staying here and the organizing parts. As for the panther, consider him a guardian of this house from now on. He will not harm any of you nor attack anyone who hasn't already displayed hostile intent against the household stuff or my companions and myself."

"Isn't that right boy?" he turns to the panther, patting him gently on the black fur-covered head.

[Kris Strife]

Guardian continues to examine the body closely, focusing on the edges of the wound and the area where Selvaris' heart used to be. "I meant no disrespect to you, I just can't promise I'll turn up much more, and didn't want to waste your time. And I don't suppose you have records on who came in or out, at least while carrying a large crescent shaped axe? And as for importance, everyone, no matter how insignificant they may seem to you, I or anyone else, has importance to someone. As a friend, or family member, rival or business partner, is it really so surprising that when someone is murdered, those he was important to step forward? And not everyone feels that rewards and fame are needed for doing the right thing. I personally don't mind others knowing of my work, but that is primarily because it makes it easier to do more, rather that a lust for fame and fortune... Plus, who tries to make sure that the town guard pays attention to them, unless they're being a distraction for someone else?"

[Kurrel]

Titan and Faelkun,

For her part, the woman looks relieved by the words of the tall man, even if his size and companion clearly continue to worry her. She manages to compose herself after a moment, then nods firmly to herself. "We'll try and make sure that your needs are satisfied, masters. Is there anything we can do to help? Perhaps you have trunks or belongings that need fetching from some hostel in the city?" she wonders.

"I hope you will excuse the mess," she adds, "There have been quite some goings on in this place. Honestly, if it weren't for friends such as yourselves, I wouldn't have been surprised if this place had sat idle after all of poor master Selevaris' business had been cleared up. What with all the business surrounding the murder, this place has no fair reputation."

"I can have the master bedroom prepared for you, otherwise there are several spare rooms to take if you are unwilling yet to take over that place."

"How could they know master Selevaris? He was such a quiet man." you easily overhear one of the servants ask another.

Guardian,
The captain offers a wintry smile, "So far, there seem to be plenty of people trying to make sure they are noticed." she murmurs. She stands by the slab upon which is laid Selevaris' corpse and looks down at him. "As for those who were important to Selevaris and to whom he was important? His whole persona, something I am coming to doubt, was that of a lonely man content in isolation."

"There have been no reports of people armed with such weapons." she muses, running a fingertip along the ragged wound. "From what we've gathered, there were many comings and goings related to his business, and a few late night gatherings as well. None, however, with such a signature weapon."

There's a brief commotion at the entranceway, and you can see the guards barring the entrance to others. She glances back at you with a half smile, "Best hurry up. Even town guard authority will hold back the business of the city for so long."

[Kris Strife]

Guardian sighs and begins to pack up his tools, making sure to get everything, and making a note to wash them well once he was able to. "Yeah, I don't think I can learn anything else here... But if it wasn't somebody who was seen bringing it in, its either someone who managed to sneak past your men with such a weapon... Or someone who's lived here for some time. As for his personality, he once said that being the biggest part of the machine is far more hazardous than being the most important cog, I'm starting to wonder if it was someone who knew just how much work he did for..." He turns around and looks her in the eyes. "What did you say his boss' name was again?"

[Fortuna]

"For now, I think we should leave the master bedroom to his memory. The spare rooms will do nicely for now. A few more mutual friends will likely be staying here for the next few days or weeks, perhaps as many as seven or eight all told. In the meantime, where would be most convenient to adress all the servants at once?"

[Calimos]

Titan nods approvingly and whispers to Faelkun.
"Good point Faelkun. They should be all notified to our presence and you'd better address them. I could do it as well, but people tend to get uneasy around me, claiming that my gladiatorial appearance and stern demeanour puts them off. In any case, would you like me to go back to the inn and tell the others to relocate here, at Selevaris estate?"

[Fortuna]

Titan nods approvingly and whispers to Faelkun.
"Good point Faelkun. They should be all notified to our presence and you'd better address them. I could do it as well, but people tend to get uneasy around me, claiming that my gladiatorial appearance and stern demeanour puts them off. In any case, would you like me to go back to the inn and tell the others to relocate here, at Selevaris estate?"

"An excellent plan, my friend."

[Kurrel]

Titan and Faelkun,
The head servant introduces herself as 'Matiya' and suggests that the kitchen area would hold everyone. The kitchen is large enough for a handful of people to work in, though clearly meant only for servants. Decoration is minimal, drying herbs hang from the low rafters and everything is care-worn and simple. A fire is going in the oven and the smell of stew fills the room.

There are 5 servants, all told, a cook, maids and a message runner only a little into her teens. It is immediately apparent they are relieved that they still have their jobs and a place to stay. They look on with interest, curious to see who their new masters will be.

Guardian,
"Smiling Nikaram, a powerful trade prince of the city." answers the captain, a slight smile on her features. She shrugs as she turns and gestures towards the exit, "He owns a great deal of the city out there, and more than a few of the people." she adds.

As she is about to continue, a third guard has joined the two who were blocking the doorway. Ushered past, he gives a polite cough and comes forwards. Flicking her hair aside, the captain looks at him and nods.

"My pardon, m'lady. As per your orders, I'm here to report that the Selevaris estate has been sold. Some new comers to the city or some such, not any of the names you said to watch for."

Looking back at you, she considers you for a moment and then smiles a frosty little smile, "Friends of yours?" she enquires, "It should be interesting to discover whether one of them is our little thief that eluded me. Come along, if you wish. Otherwise, I am certain you can find your own way around."

She turns and sweeps away, gesturing for her personal guards to follow her and commanding the new arrival to return to his barracks.

[Kris Strife]

Guardian shrugs as he follows her. "I wouldn't say they're friends... There are a few other people Selvaris helped here to pay their respects and a few of them seemed rather... Distraught at the thought of his belongings being scattered to the four winds, so I would hardly be surprised if some of them pitched in to buy it. If it is them, I'll see if they'd object to me staying there for now, if nothing else, it'll be more peaceful than the inn. I do believe I'll come with you if you're headed there now, I'm not exactly sure where his home was." As they walk, he speaks quietly to her, trying to keep a random passerby from hearing him. "Does this Smiling Nikaram have any enemies among the Dynasts? One who would rip out the heart of one of his subordinates to send a message, perhaps a recently rejected paramour?"

[Fortuna]

"Good afternoon. Firstly, I wish to thank you for being so cooperative and understanding in your time of grief, and while I understand that I am by no means your old master, I like to believe I was a good friend of his, and that I will be able to treat you well, as I'm sure he treated you. Secondly, perhaps some introductions are in order. I am Faelkun Nyth, the current half-owner of this estate. My co-owner, Guardian, will likely be along later today. This is my friend and companion, Titan, as well as his companion. To my knowledge, neither of them bites, but you might want to be careful." He smiles a little, then goes on. "For the immediate future, the two of us and perhaps as many as three or four others, including Guardian, will be staying here. Beyond a few days, however, I can't be sure. My apologies.

"I am aware that this must be a stressful time, so I think it only fair that you should have a paid holiday tomorrow. We can begin sorting things out in earnest the next day."

[Kurrel]

Guardian,
The captain laughs mirthlessly at your words, shaking her head as she walks. She gestures towards the middle of the city, home to the many palaces and estates of the wealthy, "Coin and vice rules there, and it breeds envy and jealousy. Every trade prince, and Nikaram is no exclusion, seeks to destroy the life and wealth of his companions. They also nurture grudges and enjoy nothing more than tearing down those more wholesome than themselves. Even I, who tries entirely to avoid such, have not been immune to being drawn into their intrigues in the past."

Rounding a corner and starting to leave the quieter district that holds the mausoleums and such, noise crowds in as you enter streets more filled with people. "As for Nikaram personally?" She gives another short laugh, more venomous amusement clear, "If he sleeps with a partner more than a week then it is gossip worthy. He will go to great lengths to bed those he wants, whether his quarry comes of their own choice or not."


Panther and Faelkun,
The people look relieved and, once dismissed, start to walk out talking amongst themselves. You can overhear them wondering whether either of you will be around any more than Selevaris was. They do eye the panther with some concern, nontheless.

Even before the last of them have departed, however, one of them is returning. The young boy who acts both as message runner and, apparently, as stable boy. "My lords, there is someone who wishes to speak with you. He seems angry that you count yourselves the owners of the place, rather than Selevaris. He would not listen to me, but perhaps you may find words to soothe him?" The young lad looks a little shaken, and glances nervously towards the courtyard.

[Calimos]

Titan looks at the young servant somewhat confused. Then looks at him seriously and responds.

"Hey calm down, no reason to be that anxious or stressed. Show him in and we'll take care of him. If he didn't listen to you, I'll make sure he listens to us".

[Fortuna]

"Quite. There are always those displeased with change."

[Kurrel]

Panther and Faelkun,

The boy nods, looking somewhat relieved that you don't seem to hold him to task over the anger of the visitor. He darts out the room and, after a few moments, opens the door to let in your first visitor.

The man stalks in with the stride of a military person, though he wears no markings or badges of office. His clothes are plain, but clearly well made for sturdy use, with a white tunic over brown leather pants, tucked into riding boots of fine, supple leather. His face is smeared by a scar that stretches from one side of his neck, across his lips and finishes just under one eye, while close cropped sandy hair does nothing to hide a hawkish nose and clear black eyes. He carries a axe in a loop from one side of his belt and a round shield slung across his back.

"What is this nonsense, and where is Selevaris?" he demands, walking in and sweeping a hand across this room. "I saw him a month ago and he was in fine health, now he is dead and his body not cold before his possessions pawned off to the nearest vulture?!"

[Kris Strife]

Guardian raises an eyebrow, noting the captain's obvious venom towards Nikaram. He studies her for a moment, analyzing her for a moment. "Do you have a personal grievance against him, or is this simply a general issue with his behavior?" He continues to follow her towards Selvaris' estate.

[Calimos]

Panther turned his neck right then left, with a cracking noise, then stepped forth, tall, muscular and imposing. He didn't like the stranger's way of storming into the estate and not even bothering to introduce himself, but from his words it seemed that he was not properly informed regarding the situation.

He looked at him, with a penetrating glance, then answered.

"It is used, when entering a house, to state your name sir. Since you seemed preoccupied and quite disturbed, let me make the first step. I am Titan. Adamant Titan and I was a close friend of Selevaris. Not many days ago, a message came to me saying that Selevaris was dead. As soon as I received it, I came here and met other people who knew him during his life. We did not want his estate to fall in any "vulture's" talons as you very well stated it, so we decided to pool our resources and claim it. Selevaris meant a lot to us and we're honour bound to discover what happened that led to his unfortunate demise.

Now, please state your name and the purpose of your visit and we will see what we can do".

[Kurrel]

Guardian,
The captain gives a short laugh, shaking her head and causing her hair to whip back and forth briefly. "I have no personal grudge against our good prince Nikaram." she says, stalking ahead with long strides. "He simply disgusts me. His power means there is little I can do to stop him when he forcefully takes what he wants."

She glances over her shoulder, "I would suggest you not voice your opinions on the matter." she adds, "I am a Prince of the Earth and a powerful one which, along with my position, grants me the grace to speak my mind. You have neither such protection and all trade princes zealously guard their reputations."

"Ah," she adds, turning onto a street, "And here we are."


Panther and Faelkun,
The man takes a step back, as any many might when confronted by Titan. Especially when his companion slinks forwards, rubbing against Titan's left leg but keeping an eye on the guest with a low growl grinding out the powerful jaws.

He draws a breath, eyes narrowed as he considers all before him before shrugging one shoulder and spreading his hands, "I am Jelimarem, I... handled some operations for Selevaris east of here." he adds, "I consider him a friend, though I work for him."

"Selevaris really is dead, then?" He pauses, considering that, "And there's a body?" he adds.


Everyone,

Before further enquiries with Jelimarem can be continued, there is a hesitant knock at the door and the stable boy / page is at the door again, looking embarrassed to be interrupting yet again. "My lords, the captain of the guard is here." he says, looking a bit overawed by the events of the day. New owners of the estate, interesting men even, an angry arrival and now the captain of the guard with more foreign and interesting people in tow!

The woman who enters is clad in heavy armour, plates of steel inlaid with enamelled patterns of blue and white. She has intense blue eyes and a serious, direct gaze, long, straight blonde hair spread behind and across her shoulders in a shimmering cascade. "Well met, gentlemen," she says in Scavenger tongue as she enters, voice refined and elegant, "It would appear things move fast when people of import are involved. A shame I never knew our good Selevaris better." A step behind and besides her, Guardian comes.

[Fortuna]

Turning to the captain, Faelkun bows. "Well met indeed. I am named Faelkun. I have already met your companion, and perhaps between us we can clarify a point for our uninvited guest? He is not quite convinced that Selevaris is truly no longer with us, and I would be thankful if you would set his mind at ease on that matter."

[Calimos]

"Good to meet you Jelimarem. Any friend of Selevaris is welcome here. As for his body, I do believe there is an investigation. Oh, it seems that another of our friends has arrived and with guards escorting him. Perhaps he will have additional information on the matter".

Titan turned to the direction of the newcomers.

"Welcome to the estate of our deceased friend Selevaris, honourable lady. It appears that you are the captain of the guard in the city of Imantaris, judging by your exquisite armor and the announcement that preceded you. And you are also escorting one of our friends. It is true that we moved in before someone else would have the chance to seize our late friend's estate, since we didn't want it to fall to someone else's hands. If you had known him you'd understand. Selevaris was an exceptional individual. It is the least that we can do, to honour his memory. To what do we owe the honour of your visit, lady?"

[Kris Strife]

Guardian nods. "I understand. I have had dealings with those who hold the title, some of whom acted much like what you've told me of Nikaram... And a few who'd make him look like a saint." He goes silent afterward, until they enter the estate of Selvaris.

A quick nod is given to Panther and Faelkun, but Guardian remains silent until the conversation turns to the true state of Selvaris comes up, then nods and sighs sadly, before speaking to Jelimarem. "Selvaris is indeed deceased, I've seen and examined the body... The injuries left no doubt that he was no longer amongst the living. If my word is not good enough for you, I'm certain the captain can confirm it for me." He then turns to Panther and Faelkun. "And I'm glad to see you managed to gather the resources to purchase our friend's estate. If it's no trouble, would you object to allowing me to stay here for the time being? I can offer medical services in exchange."

[Fortuna]

"Without question. Your presence is welcome."

[Kurrel]

The captain looks on with arms crossed and a little smile, remaining quiet and attentive during the interplay.

For his part, Jelimarem looks downcast and shakes his head, letting his hands drop to his sides, "I had felt certain that, at the very least, it might be a ruse to throw off a threat. That no body was found and he would be safely hidden somewhere " He give a sigh, a lot of the aggression of earlier clearly draining from him as he rubs at a shoulder with the opposite hand.

Seeing that there appears little more to be learnt from this, the captain spreads her hand around the place, "A kindly enough establishment... though each time I have been here I have noticed how little personality it contains." She taps a gauntleted finger to her cheek, looking back at you all.

"You are aware that this place has been robbed twice now since the death of it's previous owner?" She has a thoughtful look, "The second time not even three days past. I was able to surprise the intruder, yet they were able to elude me. This is not an easy feat and certainly beyond the ability of mortal men."

She walks over to one of the mirrors in the hallway, appearing to check that the left clasp of her cloak is correctly fastened but keeping her eyes on the group the whole time. "I don't yet know exactly what is going on here..." she says softly, with the grace of a blade being drawn, "but I will find out."

[Kris Strife]

He looks at the captain, shrugging. "As I said, I believe the murderer was no mortal and was clearly after something. It's quite likely that they did not find what they were after as yet and either they or a companion were forced to return." He thinks for a moment, then moves closer, whispering to the captain. "If I may make a suggestion, it may help to station some of your more trusted and skilled subordinates in a few locations around the estate, making sure they can watch it with out being spotted themselves, see if there is another break in tonight. That way if there is, it makes it likely that someone will either catch a good look at the intruder, or perhaps even capture them. Have them keep that watch up for a few days, and if there has not been another break in, then it is likely who ever it was found what they were after. Change out at least one guard every night, just in case one of them is in on it..."

[Kurrel]

There's a slight smile as the Captain gives a small nod ofher head to the first part of Guardian's suggestion, though she glances also to Faelkun and Titan. "I believe that this man is not included in your ownership of this estate." she murmurs, interrupting Guardian briefly as she gestures with one hand around the room. "With your acceptance, I think Guardian's idea is sound. I will even take charge of such a watch myself, as I am both certain that there are more powers at work here than mortal and I find myself interested in Selevaris' affairs myself."

Jelimarem appears about to speak out against that, but schools himself to silence when the Captain looks towards him, clearly interested in what he was going to say. Instead, he bows his head and shakes it in awkward silence. He mumbles that he must attend other business, since clearly the man he came to meet is no longer available. He will head towards the door as Guardian continues his suggestion.

The Captain seems amused, a smile teasing her features as she nods, "The shifts will be rotated," she says in bemused tones, "I am quite capable of rooting out threats within my own ranks. I must warn you, however, that a standing watch of guardsmen will draw attention. So far, not many are aware that this murder was anything but mundane." She laughs briefly, before glancing to all three of you for both reactions and whether you will allow her guards to stand watch over your new estate.

[Kris Strife]

Guardian nods. "I think that drawing attention would be good actually. And it was a murder, followed by two break ins into the same estate. Certainly that much is unusual, and even if you haven't said anything official, there must be some kind of rumors... The same estate being purchased so quickly, and wholesale, will only increase that. And, if nothing else, the increased attention may make one of the guilty party's allies nervous, might make them want to offer information in exchange for some kind of clemency." He thinks for a moment, then looks to the captain. "Or, if you prefer, perhaps I could offer my medical services to the city guard for free in exchange for the added protection? Either you bring them, or they get some sort of token from you, so I know that it's official business and I'll do what I can for them."

[Fortuna]

"We would greatly appreciate your laying a guard here. Our purses were strained to breaking point by this purchase: we would be unable to provide our own security. Whatever you provide would be appreciated. In the meantime, can you tell me where my property was broken into? Perhaps the thief or thieves left without what they sought."

[Calimos]

Titan watches his comrades carefully as they negotiate with the captain of the Guard. Truth be told, such an estate might need additional security and even though Titan would wish nothing more than encounter Selevaris' murderer first hand, he still realizes that he cannot be at all places at all times.

They seem to be able to handle this better than him, for the moment, so he chooses to remain silent. Their financial situation being what it is, perhaps he should seek entry to a local arena and attempt to win a few prizes there.

He turns to the captain and speaks up.

"Honourable captain of the city's guard. If I may ask you. I had heard that in your city one could find various fights among capable and strong martial artists and I was wondering where exactly an able individual could go and find such a place and event".

[Kurrel]

For her part, the captain simply nods to the suggestions. She casts a look over her shoulder, looking towards the household. "I have been here enough times that I will not need a second walkaround to tell where my men need stationing." she murmurs as she turns back. "Let me make one thing clear, though; these are men under my command. They will not obey your orders."

Shaking her head, she gives a dip of her head in thanks to Guardian's offer. "We have skilled medics and doctors of our own, though you are generous with your service."

At Faelkun's suggestion, she will nod and sweep her hand towards the arch that leads from the room into the corridors of the household. "If I may be so bold as to lead you in your own home?" she suggests with a cool, professional smile.

She leads you to first to the center of the house, where a powerful door stands. "We have not yet been able to discover where the house was first broken into. This, however, was the target of that event; your new strongroom." The keys will have been provided at the point of sale, the most elaborate of which turns the tumblers of the heavy door.

Pushing it open, she gestures across the room, a dark and closed in place with shelving and surfaces packed into every conceivable place. Every surface is littered with objects, some of which appear to be junk and some of which could be marginally valuable. The only thing that is clear is that each and every piece, whether a broken shard of pottery to the shattered base of a statue, is ancient. Weather worn and beaten, time hangs heavy in the room. A film of dust raised by the motion of the door can be seen floating in the light. "As there is no log of what was contained available, there has been no telling whether anything was taken."

She draws back, waiting for you to look around and then lock up before turning and ascending the stairs. She strides into a well appointed study, "I interrupted a second thief here, though I know he was able to escape with several instruments and documentation." She glances over her shoulder at the group, "His escape itself warrants my further interest."

While here, she will nod to Panther, "There are many who fight for glory and money. There are public tournaments in the three grand market squares every three days. They take all comers but the fare is usually drunk mercenaries and farmers with fists and bravado. The purse is, I understand, pitiful. There are arenas for more skilled fighters but in order to enter those you will need a sponsor or a position on the Gilded Council to sponsor yourself."

[Calimos]

Titan listens to the captain's response, thinks a bit and asks her again.
"A sponsor you say? Why would that be - does he have to vouch for you or cover for some expenses regarding your participation? And if such is the case are there any notable citizens of Imantaris who might be open to such a prospect?

As for the Gilded Council you mentioned, what would that be? I am afraid that by travelling a lot I fail to get properly acquainted with each location's ruling systems and I can't recall hearing about this council in the past".

[Kurrel]

The captain, one hand resting on her hip as she looks across the now tidy room where she earlier interrupted a robbery. Her expression is thoughtful a moment, before she turns her attention to Panther and gives a brief shrug. "A sponsor is responsible for the health of those who enter the ring under his name. If they are crippled or killed in the fight, it is the sponsor's duty to pay out for his care or the death toll incurred."

"They like to say it is so because it is just; that it means that men and women not capable enough will be barred from a dangerous sport and even those who do will be looked after if they should fall. Make no mistake, though, they do it only for their own good. Before these laws there were more gladiator schools, many of which were self controlled. An alliance of these schools nearly overthrew the Gilded Council several hundred years ago. The law has since served to limit the number of gladiators and keep them under control of those who rule the city."

She gives a brief, cold laugh at your query about the ruling body. "The Gilded Council rules the city. They propose the laws and are the only ones who may vote to approve or repeal them. There are hundreds of members and almost as many ways to join. All Dragonblooded are de facto members, and many positions in the city automatically grant a seat. There are hereditary seats and even, so I understand, one seat granted merely by possession of a particular cloak."

"The most common way, though, is to commission public works within the city. Those rich enough pad out their own factions by commissioning works under the name of their henchmen and allies, elevating these men and at the same time granting themselves more power." She gives a swift cutting motion of her hand, "You'll find no more corrupt and mercenary a group in the Scavenger lands as the Gilded Council. If such is your taste, I am certain a man such as yourself will find a sponsor on stature alone. It might not hurt to win a few square brawls, though."

[Calimos]

Adamant Titan looks at the captain smiling for a moment then continues.

"Thank you very much for your enlightening explanations and the information you are providing me with, honourable captain. I assure you, that despite having a distinct preference to the art of personal combat, it is the enlightment of the spirit and the soul that I find most useful and paramount in the techniques of martial arts and this is perhaps the foremost reason I am drawn to it. It is not widely known perhaps, but I was a gladiator once and a successful one at that - mind you - but at some point I realized that it was not my purpose in life to die in the sands of an arena, for the recreation and fun of the crowd, and consequently I tried to change my life in that aspect.

I still remain a practicioner of martial arts, for I am a staunch believer of the fact that they help strengthen the body and spirit in equal measure if performed properly, plus that they allow you a means to defend yourself and others in need, from the multitude of dangers that beset the lands and people of Creation in our times. As I wander the lands of the Threshold, I enjoy to visit arenas and participate in martial arts tournaments when possible, not to enjoy beating another combatant into submission, but to feel the rush of a proper martial arts duel once more and measure myself against some of the most talented martial artists out there. And if I can meet them after the tournaments, discuss with them the finer points of meditation, training, techniques and all matters relevant to our common discipline, then I believe that I have achieved the greatest victory of all.

For that reason I might seek to participate in such events in your city, if you would be so kind as to direct me to those individuals more likely to support my effort, and if successful, I'd suggest that you come and see me if your duties in the Guard allow it. I'll try to compensate your information with my techniques and perhaps you'll see that I can be more than my stature denotes. Not merely a strong individual but one with discipline in his life, a love for freedom and a distinct vision that he would follow till the end".

With that, Titan bows slightly to the captain and awaits her response.

[Kurrel]

Calimos, please make a Charisma + Presence test. The Captain's appearance is 4, please modify your roll by the difference your appearance from hers.

[Calimos]

Alright. According to corebook (pg.172) the captain receives a bonus to her DV by 2 since that is the difference between her appearance (4) and mine (2).

My roll: Charisma+Presence: 7 dice plus one temporary Willpower spent to grant one extra success. In case I am granted any "social stunt" dice from the things that I've said to her, you can calculate them accordingly.

Oh and a Presence excellency will probably be my next expenditure when we get xp. :smallwink:

Charisma+Presence: [roll0]

5 from roll plus one from willpower, for a total of 6 successes. Not bad I hope. :smallsmile:

[Kurrel]

The good description you gave is effectively why you got the roll, so no stunt bonii.


The captain seems momentarily taken aback by Calimos' direct response. She regards him with a level gaze, giving his words more attention than earlier whereas it was previously a more off handed disinterest in Titan's queries that she was answering simply as a matter of good etiquette.

She gives a shake of her head when Calimos bows, clearly bemused and with a genuine smile of amusement teasing at her lips. Crossing her arms, she then raises one hand to tap a gauntleted finger against her cheek as she considers something for a moment or two.

Eventually, she gives a short laugh and makes a gesture towards Titan, "While I prefer the blade myself, I respect your views and, in part, why you would return to the arenas."

She pauses for a moment and then shrugs briefly, "I have no truck with the Gilded Council nor their games. However, I have a seat amongst them regardless. If you will it, you may take my sponsorship. If you are successful then I am sure others will approach you with a view to 'poaching' you from me. How does that sound, warrior?"

[Calimos]

The tall and imposing Zenith smiled widely, content at the Captain's reaction and answer.

"You are most beneficent my lady and I am certain that your grace and skill with the blade would be a wonder to behold. I will be deeply honoured to participate in these martial arts tournaments under your personal sponsorship and I pray that I will not bring shame upon you but rather honour and fame. You have my gratitude and if it is not regarded as too bold a request, might I learn the name of the fair lady under whose aegis I will participate in those fights, your name that is, esteemed captain of the city's guard?"

With that, Titan bowed again, but this time he also extended his arms in a gesture of a united palm and fist, denoting a respectful salute, reserved usually for those famous among the world of martial arts.

[Kurrel]

The captain laughs briefly, shaking her head even as she continues to smile afterwards, "I am no artist nor crowd pleaser." she murmurs, glancing down at the hand that she rests comfortably on the pommel of her sword. "I draw my blade only with the intent to kill and in the most efficient manner." Her smile has an edge of both melancholy and confidence to it before she glances up once again.

"I am named Menonatae Keisarys..." she pauses, and her smile turns playful a moment, "In case you are unsure, that means you will battle under the Minonati banner and that I am Keisarys."

She spreads her hands as she looks around, "Is there anything else you wish to address before I go about my business?" she enquires.


Edited :
Lore 3 will reveal the Minonati are a clan of people belonging to a country further east, deep in the Scavenger Lands. Incredibly rigid social structure that is drawn from gender, location, family and even time of birth.
Bureaucracy 3 will reveal from her name that she is (obviously) female, Menon, and a member of the clan, -ae.

[Kris Strife]

Guardian thinks for a moment, then shakes his head. "No, I don't believe so... I'll certainly keep an eye out for anything unusual, and be sure to let you know."