Marked Fugitives [IC]

[PairO'Dice Lost]

The sun rises over the City of Towers one morning to reveal a curious sight: a Lyrandar airship docked at the Cannith Enclave. The rumor mill is buzzing with guesses as to what could cause two Dragonmarked Houses with somewhat...less-than-cordial relations to do such a thing, but no actual information is forthcoming. It is here that you all have gathered today, waiting in a well-appointed conference room for House officials to arrive and explain why, exactly, you have been called here.

The room's central table is surrounded by six chairs; the two farthest from the door are empty. To the left sit a female shifter and a male half-elf, both of whom arrived on the airship currently docked outside, one of several airships in a trade caravan whose most recent port of call was somewhere in the Byeshk Mountains. The door opens, and a secretary escorts a female human and a warforged, recently arrived from another Cannith outpost by lightning rail, to the chairs on the right. "I'm sorry," she apologizes, "it will be a few minutes before the others will be here. Can I bring you some refreshments while you wait?"

Feel free to introduce your characters, make small talk, and otherwise get in character. The OOC thread is here

[Wiz]

The tall human woman is dressed in an artisan's outfit, she nods to the others at the table, "Hello, I'm Channa d'Cannith and the warforged is named Sin. It is good to meet you."

[Jopustopin]

"I'm sorry," she apologizes, "it will be a few minutes before the others will be here. Can I bring you some refreshments while you wait?"

The adamantine warforged nods, and through huge gaping teeth speaks, "I'll have some refreshments." It's hard to tell whether he is joking or not, regardless he turns his attention back to the group immediately.

After Channa introduces him, Sin speaks again, "Sin is short for Sinclaire. I respond to both names equally."

The entire time Sin remains standing at attention with a magnificantly crafted glaive at the ready.

[Wargor]

The half-elf springs to his feet, a gracious smile crossing his handsome face. He is dressed rather exotically; a white silk shirt showing opened to show too much of his chest, an open dark green leather jerkin and soft trousers in a deep purple colour, tucked into fold-topped boots of brown leather. A dark blue overcoat is thrown over the back of his chair, and at his waist sits a holster with a long crystal sat in it.

"Greetings, greetings!" He swoops over to Channa, taking her hand without permission and laying a kiss on the back of it. "My dear, it is surely a pleasure to meet such a beautiful woman. I am Lazarus d'Lyrandar, at your service." He stands straight again and eyes the Warforged standing next to Channa. "My, what a thing of terrible beauty. Sinclaire, you truly were forged to impress!" He bows slightly, before stepping over to one of the empty chairs. "If my lady cares to be seated?" He flashes Channa a roguish smile as he pulls the chair out for her.

[Wiz]

Channa seems a little flustered as if unused to such attention. She blushes as Lazarus kisses the back of her hand. Then sits down in the seat he offered her, "Good to meet you, Lazarus." She clears her throat and looks around the room, "Does anyone have an idea why we're here?"

[Wargor]

Lazarus flashes her a charming smile as he retakes his seat. "I'm not exactly sure myself, all I know is that I was told to report to that ship out there, headed for Sharn. I dare say it'll be another boring little task like the others my House has sent me on." A look of irritation flashes across his features, but his face soon smooths back out, and his smile quickly returns. "So, tell me about yourself."

[GodGoblin]

Tarja remains seated, watching while the others go about there introductions. The made one seems to be a capable warrior however the others are frail, but power can lie within areas other than strength in this 'civilised' world it seems

She stands from her chair and bows her head to the others in the room "I am Tarja of the Blood-Fang tribe and emmisary of the Dwarven houses" She continues to stand but leans upon the back of her chair "I too am headed to Sharn but why I do not know"

[Wargor]

"Headed to Sharn? My dear, your in Sharn! Welcome to the heart of civilisation!" Lazarus grins widely, throwing an arm round the Shifters shoulders.

[GodGoblin]

"Same as any other city, a hive of cowards and prey" She almost spits while shrugging Lazurus's arm from her. "At least thats the end to the travelling though.." Her tone softening now that the elf was out of her personal space.

[Wargor]

"Oh don't be such a spoilsport! I'm sure you'll come to enjoy the urban sprawl." He lounges back in his chair, putting his booted feet up on the table and studying Tarja. "An emmisary of the Dwarven house you say? Now just how did that come to be?"

[Jopustopin]

Sin stares openly at the Shifter. "Do not mistake a change in tactics as an indicator of weakness. It would be unwise. In the wilds there is no mistaking prey from foe. Here, you are apt to confuse the two, and wake up with cold steel through your heart. Cowardly? Maybe. You may not like the rules here, but I suggest you learn them."

[Wiz]

Channa looks thoughtful. "Perhaps we can reason out our purpose if we know each of our abilities. I am trained as an artificer, but I also have some training in investigation and research. Sin, I have been told is to bodyguard me, and of course it would be hard to find a better warrior... but he may have other strengths I don't know."

[Wargor]

"The greatest ability I posses? My charm and good looks of course!" Lazarus replies with a wink. "An artificer you say? Why, you must contain brains as well as beauty, a rather attractive combination I must say." His voice drops slightly, and his smile turns seductive.

[Wiz]

Channa clears her throat and shrugs, "So... obviously you're good at being social... which I'm definitely not." She looks at the shifter, "And you are obviously a hunter... perhaps a tracker." She frowns, "An investigator, a guard, a social expert, a hunter. I'd guess they want us to find a person or a small group of people, and/or gather information on a person or a small group of people. But covertly, rather than through any usual channels."

[Jopustopin]

Sin moves over to a different corner of the room. This particular spot provides a different angle of everyone, yet is exactly the same distance away from Channa as he was previously.

[Wargor]

"That's a fine analytical mind you have Channa, I'm awed by your reasoning!" Lazarus replies, his voice and smile both completely sincere. "Now what was that about refreshments?"

[Wiz]

The self-proclaimed artificer points to the secretary who made the offer of refreshments after escorting Channa and Sin in to the room. "My finely honed analytical reasoning might be wrong... but I believe your inquiry is best directed there." She smiles slightly.

[PairO'Dice Lost]

Before the smiling secretary can take any drink orders, the double doors to the room suddenly burst open, slamming against the walls as two figures walk in, a human followed by a half-elf. The human is a short, mustachioed man wearing a long and heavy leather coat, with a large dragonmark twisting its way down his right arm; the half-elf is a tall and regal figure, with long flowing hair and a dragonmark tracing its way across her eyes and down the left side of her neck, disappearing into the collar of her robes.

"There won't be any time for refreshments, I'm afraid, Lydia," the man says, dismissing the secretary with a wave of his hand and taking a seat in the empty chair closest to Channa and Sin. "We have little time and much work to do." The half-elf takes the other seat and nods. "Indeed. Thank you all for coming; let us begin. You, human," she nods at Channa, "were correct in assuming we wish for you to find several individuals, and do so quietly. Our Houses have assembled several teams to pursue this objective, and you four in particular have been chosen for this task due to your known reliability and for your house connections."

The man pulls aside his coat and selects one wand from the many attached to his belt, and with four quick flicks of his wrist creates four foot-high images on the table. "These are your targets," he says without any preamble, indicating the four figures in turn: a male human dressed in a sober vest and cloak, a female half-elf in an airship captain's uniform, an armored male dwarf leaning on an axe, and a humanoid of uncertain gender and race whose features are obscured by black cloth. "The first is Emmett d'Cannith, a minor functionary of unknown capabilities," the man continues, "the second is Teleshava d'Lyrandar, an airship captain with arcane training, the third is Mezar d'Kundarak, a mercenary warrior, and the fourth is...well, name unknown, occupation unknown, and abilities unknown." He looks vaguely upset at not having much information on the fourth figure.

"You are probably wondering why these particular individuals are of interest to us," the half-elf says. "Note the names. d'Cannith. d'Lyrandar. d'Kundarak. These all are known to possess dragonmarks, and they claim to speak for the Houses. Now, we of House Lyrandar and House Cannith take our economic and political power seriously. We record the birth of every marked member of the House, and keep records of all members who leave or join our ranks. These individuals appear on neither record, and so we are understandably...perturbed at their sudden appearance and lack of established history." She spreads her arms, as if to ask Who could blame us? "Now, under normal circumstances, we would simply contact these individuals and ask them some pointed questions, and this tactic has succeeded with some of the other mysteriously-arrived marked individuals. However, we are never able to find these particular individuals when we send delegations to contact them; they avoid our representatives, do not respond to messages, and have most likely persuaded those near them to claim no knowledge of them."

"And that's where you four come in. You aren't associated with the Houses, officially, and should be unknown here, so we're hoping you can get closer to them than we can. We're willing to give you limited support in resources, and possibly allow you to namedrop Cannith or Lyrandar if it would help you, but secrecy is the most important concern. If you just head down into the Depths or the Cogs and try using the Cannith name to get places, we'll disavow all knowledge of you." He leans his chair back and crosses his arms. "Any questions?"

Knowledge checks:

Nobility and Royalty/History
Channa: [roll0]
Sin: [roll1]

DC 15
The human is Merrix d'Cannith, leader of House Cannith in Sharn and one of the most famous living artificers.
DC 20
The half-elf is Solia d'Lyrandar, a viceroy of House Lyrandar and supervisor of all airship activities in Sharn.

Arcana
Channa: [roll2]

DC 20
Both of the figures' dragonmarks are greater marks.

[Wiz]

Channa looks thoughtful, "Well... I suppose the most pertinent information would be their location... the last, most reliable intelligence you have on where they might be."

[PairO'Dice Lost]

"Obviously." The man produces a packet of papers from within his coat and tosses it onto the table. "Names, images, residences, known acquaintances, last point of contact. All the facts we have are in there. Any other questions?"

[GodGoblin]

"A hunt? Good! We will find these people and... What do you want us to do with them exactly?" Tarja perks up eager to begin hunting down these individuals.

[Wargor]

"How interesting, that someone would suddenly appear out of nowhere, dragonmarked. Surely they could just be someone's bastard?" Lazarus rubs his chin, swinging his legs off the table and sitting up straight. "You mentioned others, what was their story?"

[Jopustopin]

Sin listens with great interest, though doesn't show any outward signs of this.

Although Sin doesn't particularly like Cannith members like Merrix, who view Warforged as no better than hammers or longswords (depending on the task at hand), Sin stays quiet.

[PairO'Dice Lost]

To Tarja, the human says, "Our primary goal is to determine where these individuals are coming from and why they're here. We'd therefore prefer that they be brought here, alive, for questioning and possible study." He chuckles grimly and adds, "Though 'alive' doesn't mean 'undamaged'. Feel free to use whatever means are necessary to retrieve them."

To Lazarus, the half-elf replies, "Believe me when I say it is quite difficult to hide the goings-on of marked heirs from House scrutiny. You, of all people, should know this." She smiles softly, though it does not reach her eyes. "Had you, in your misadventures, fathered a child, it and its mother would have been promptly adopted into House Lyrandar had it borne a mark, and promptly...dealt with otherwise. Not to mention that a marked heir going completely unnoticed for the vast majority of his or her life, only to suddenly appear with no history, is unlikely to the greatest degree. No, these individuals are not merely bastards." She leans back and steeples her fingers. "There are fifteen other individuals that our teams have been seeking. Of these, two were found, apprehended, and questioned. One of the two, of House Kundarak, was not technically an unknown individual. Like the Lyrandar heir for whom you are searching, as detailed in the information packet, he had disappeared several decades ago and was presumed dead...so when he reappeared, we were not certain that it was not an impostor. It was ascertained that he was the same heir that had disappeared, however he had no memories of the past twenty-five years and could not explain why he had initially avoided House and Sharn authorities."

The human cuts in. "Right. In case it wasn't clear, we don't necessarily suspect these people of being impostors. It's entirely possible that these are actually heirs thought to be deceased or missing who just appear different enough that they can't be identified while they're trying to avoid us; the Kundarak Enclave couldn't identify their heir at first because he'd shaved off his beard, of all reasons. Which is why we want them alive and in a state to talk to us, so we can figure out what they've been up to and try to heal any mental ailments that've kept them away. To be quite frank, if all we wanted was to get rid of them, we'd just sic Thuranni assassins on them and let the Host sort them out."

The half-elf appears somewhat put out at the Cannith's mention of assassins, but she clears her throat and continues, "Indeed. The second individual turned out to have comparatively innocent motivations: she was impersonating an Orien heir in order to gain access to the more upscale restaurants in Skyway. Now, even such a minor indiscretion cannot go unpunished--she will think twice before crossing the Houses again, I assure you of that--but it was not evidence of some grand conspiracy as we had feared."

[Wiz]

Channa opens the packet and begins flipping through information sheets. "Since you brought two of the team from elsewhere to here, and this is where you debriefed us, would I be wrong in assuming that their trail currently ends within Sharn or it's nearby vicinity?"

[PairO'Dice Lost]

"Not at all. Their last known locations were all in the city underlevels."

[Wiz]

Channa nods, "We'll all need provisions and illumination. Can you provide us with maps to the under levels, or a guide, or at least the name of a reliable guide and the money to hire them?"

[GodGoblin]

"A hunt without the kill? Interesting... Very well I accept!" Tarja stands up straight and bows to each of the elders individually.

[Wargor]

Lazarus is less than pleased at his house elders insinuations, but nevertheless smiles back sweetly. "Well, never let it be said our House doesn't take care of their own eh? How...touching. But very well, I accept. It's been a while since I've gone snooping around through any of Sharn's hives of scum and villainy, they've probably all forgotten me by now. Hopefully."

[PairO'Dice Lost]

The human stands, waving off Tarja's bow. "Yes, yes, I'm glad you all accepted--and of course you're going on this mission," this last part addressed to Sin in a tone implying You're a warforged, you have to do what a Cannith says. "You can buy maps in the University District and find a guide in the Ambassador Towers. I assume you can find your way around the city without our having to hold your hands the whole way." Now that you have all agreed to the mission, it is quite obvious that he wants to wrap up the meeting as quickly as possible. "You have the use of the airship for the remainder of the mission, Solia can answer any other questions you might have. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have some business to attend to."

The half-elf rises as well as the man leaves, and though she is more polite about it, it is clear that she too believes this meeting is over. "There are plenty of Sivis message stations throughout the city if you need to make contact with us for any reason. Lydia, if you would, please?" The secretary from before enters, and after the half-elf leaves she escorts you to the airship, providing you with two small baskets of refreshments for the trip. And with that, with the doors to the Cannith Enclave closed behind you, you are on your own.

[Wargor]

"Well...that was abrupt. Time for a drink I say, let's go and plan our first step over some wine eh?" Lazarus smiles cheerfully, offering an arm to Channa.

[Jopustopin]

Sin takes one of the baskets of refreshments and looks disappointed with the contents. Clearly expecting something more refreshing that what's in the basket. "Channa do you know who Solia is?"

[Wiz]

Channa shakes her head, "I'm assuming that Solia was the d'Lyrandar woman whom the d'Cannith gentleman dumped us on. You know, the one who rushed us out a moment later?" She smiles, "I love my house, but I've noticed the powerful of all houses appreciate brevity when dealing with those they see as beneath themselves." She looks strangely at Lazarus' arm, as if confused why it is being extended toward her.

[Jopustopin]

Sin nods his head for a second then speaks again, "Channa you know the human male was Merrix d'Cannith, Leader of Cannith South. Since the division I have been retained here. Are you from another Cannith branch?"

[Wiz]

Channa shakes her head, "I've never met Merrix in person... before today anyway. All I knew was that he had a greater mark of making. I'm from Cannith South, but it's a big compound. Everybody doesn't meet everybody, and Merrix fewer than most, unless you catch his interest."

[Jopustopin]

"It appears you have caught Merrix's interest." Sin looks at the half elf, then back at Channa. "Will we be getting wine first? Or will we be going straight into lower Sharn?"

[GodGoblin]

"To the point, I like them. No need for pointless chatting when there s a hunt on. I am ready to go now but if you all wish to prepare first then suppose I shall too" The thought of wine intrigued Tarja as it was one of civilisations better inventions but she would certainly not admit it to the others.

[Wargor]

Quickly and gently grasping Channa's arm, he slips it through his so they are left walking arm in arm. "No point charging off half cocked, let's have a sit down with a glass and go through these packets eh? That was well said about the houses though, my own house has never had much time for me. But then again I do so enjoy doing things to test their patience.". He adds, his mouth twitching into a smirk.

[Wiz]

Channa seems to suddenly realize that Lazarus was offering to escort her, but there is still some confusion on her face... as though it is the first time anyone has ever done so. For some reason, his actions or words make her blush furiously for a moment, and she drops her eyes and consents to be led to wherever Lazarus is going.

ooc - are we in a superman story? Channa d'Cannith, Lazarus d'Lyrandar... :)

[Jopustopin]

"There are two places equidistant from here where we may sit, drink wine and eat food. Both are located in the Dragon Towers District and may be reached on foot within eight minutes. I am very familiar with this district as this is where I have resided for the most part since the Last War ended. Although I have not been here in the last seven months." Sin speaks, like always, in a deep soothing voice.

[Wargor]

"Then lead the way! Let's get to drinking! Oh, and planning of course!" Lazarus says gleefully, tugging on Channa's arm.

[GodGoblin]

"Drinking it is then" Tarja smiles broadly before catching herself and forcing her face back into a stern expression before looking at the others hoping they hadn't noticed.

[Wiz]

Channa shrugs as she is dragged along, "Okay then... planning... and drinking." From her tone, she doesn't sound too familiar with the latter activity either.

[PairO'Dice Lost]

The few minutes' trip to the restaurants Sin pointed out pass quickly with idle chatter, and soon enough your destination comes into view. On one end of a busy thoroughfare, sandwiched between Noam & Sons Apothecary and The Flawless Palimpsest, lies a quite cozy restaurant called The Inn At Dragon Towers. A pair of well-dressed halfling girls are standing outside the door, cheerfully holding signs describing the daily specials and entreating hungry passers-by to come in and have a bowl of something tasty. On the other end, one establishment rises a full story above the rest; its sign bears only the image of a wine glass inscribed with the emblem of House Ghallanda. A distinguished-looking half-elf stands at the door, arms crossed behind his back.

[GodGoblin]

Tarja quickens her pace to get into the place with the wine glass sign. She eyes the images of the food as she passes but can only guess what they actually contain as she cannot read the descriptions. Having not a proper meal in days Tarja tries to bound through past the Half-Elf at the door.

[Wargor]

"She's going into a place like that? Now this should be worth watching!" Lazarus practically drags Channa along in his enthusiasm for catching up their feral companion. "Do keep up Sinclaire!"

[Wiz]

Channa frowns as she's dragged along, "Something tells me she's not overly excited about planning..."

[PairO'Dice Lost]

If the doorman is at all disconcerted at the sight of the wild shifter barreling towards him, he does not show it. He merely raises an eyebrow and lazily extends a hand to bar her progress. "Far be it from me to delay or inconvenience Madame," he enunciates in a rather proper upper-class accent, "but I will need to examine Madame's invitation before Madame--" he glances over at the rest of you "--and Madame's party may be seated."

[Jopustopin]

Sin nods a greeting at the half-elf as he walks by.

[Wargor]

"Invitation?" Lazarus barrels forwards, getting uncomfortably close to the barman's face. "Are you trying to impede a scion of a noble house from drinking in your establishment? Why sir, that's an outrage! How very dare you! Practically discrimination!" He says this all at the very top of his voice, trying to sound as pompous as possible.

[PairO'Dice Lost]

By the utter lack of expression on the doorman's face, he has dealt with unruly customers before. "If Madame is indeed a House scion, Madame need only present proof of such. If Sir wishes to enter, Sir need only present same...preferably at a lower volume."

[Wargor]

Lazarus quickly jerks the neck of his shirt to the side, being careful to only show the doorman the dragonmark on his collar bone. "Proof enough my friend?"

[PairO'Dice Lost]

The doorman examines the mark for a moment and nods briefly. He gives Lazarus a disapproving look, leans forward, and softly enough for only the four of you to hear says, "Now, that was not so difficult, was it, Sir?" He straightens, and adds in a normal tone of voice, "Master d'Lyrandar and three guests for luncheon." The door opens behind him and the doorman motions you inside.

When you walk through the door, you walk out of Dragon Towers and onto the Talenta Plains. There are several elaborately-carved wooden tables scattered around the room, each covered by an awning to shade diners from the afternoon sunlight shining down from above. Birdsong emanates from somewhere unseen, and off in the distance you can see groups of dinosaur-mounted halflings chasing each other playfully across the fields. The illusioncraft is practically flawless, and must have cost a considerable amount of Ghallanda gold. A young female halfling greets you as you enter and leads you to a nearby table, situated next to an illusory river.

"Please make yourselves comfortable," she says, indicating a collection of chairs and cushions surrounding the table. "Seeing as none of you has dined with us before, allow me to explain the procedure. We have no menu, as our chefs can prepare any dish you desire; if they have not heard of a particular dish, you need only describe it sufficiently and it shall be prepared for you. I will take your beverage orders now, and when you have decided on your entrées simply place a hand on the glyph in the center of the table and I will arrive to take your order."

[Wargor]

Lazarus sprawls into a cushion, getting comfortable. "Thank you. I believe a bottle of something from Aundair would do to start. Light, fruity, something...citrusy." He smiles up at the halfling server, before gazing round at the masterful illusions. "I must say, this place is a true marvel. It's exquisite."

[Wiz]

Channa looks a little lost then shrugs, "Do you have blackmoss tea?"

ooc - Blackmoss tea would be like an ultra-caffeine beverage, drunk mostly for effect and grimaced over for flavor. It would be quite unusual for a restaurant to carry it, but quite common for a pot of it to be brewing late at night or early in the morning in a workshop. Just a further indication of Channa's complete lack of social niceties.

[Wargor]

Lazarus' eyebrows raise at such an odd order, and he looks up at the halfling. "Just bring the wine and enough glasses for my friends, that will be all for now."

[GodGoblin]

Tarja has been too preoccupied with the illusionary images around her to place an order but turns to the halfling and nods upon hearing Lazarus' order. "Hmm I can order anything? Elf, choose me a dish that your people enjoy. While in these lands I may as well try what it has to offer" She directs towards Lazarus before once again turning back to the illusions.

[PairO'Dice Lost]

The waitress bows and leaves for the kitchens, a small enclosure disguised as a large hut to fit in with the rest of the decor. You see her stop and whisper to a gnome on the way, pointing to Tarja; the gnome smiles and nods, and as the waitress continues on her way, a group of three young halflings on tiny clawfoots run past the table only a few feet away, waving hello to Tarja. The illusions continue to entertain and delight, from a few fish leaping out of the river and doing flips to birds with rainbow plumage flitting over the table.

After a few minutes of this, a well-dressed half-orc woman rises from a nearby table and walks over to yours, taking a seat on a convenient cushion. "Greetings, friends. I hope you don't mind the intrusion," she says, her broad and friendly smile revealing an overlarge canine. "I make it a point to welcome newcomers to this fine establishment, seeing as they tend to be newcomers to the Houses as well, and," she chuckles good-naturedly, "it can't hurt to begin forming political alliances early, can it? I am Elashka d'Tharashk, at your service. And who might you be?"

[Wargor]

Lazarus leans forward, grabbing one of the half-orcs hands and placing a kiss on the back of it. "Charmed my dear, I am Lazarus, and these are my companions, Channa, Tarja and Sinclaire. What can we do for you?"

[Jopustopin]

Sin does not sit, instead remaining standing next to Channa.

[Wiz]

Channa nods politely to the half-orc woman.

[PairO'Dice Lost]

Elashka nods politely to each of you as Lazarus makes introductions. "Oh, I wouldn't dream of imposing on our friendship so soon, my darling Lazarus; there isn't anything I would ask you to do for me," she says with a delicate laugh. "I would be quite interested, however, to hear what brings you to the City of Towers."

[Wargor]

Lazarus smiles politely, trying not to show any annoyance at the woman's intrusion. "Oh you know, just some family business I had to attend to. Nothing very interesting." He lies smoothly.

[PairO'Dice Lost]

"Nothing very interesting? Oh, I see," the half-orc says sweetly. She sweeps a calculating glance across the four of you and casually adds, "Well, I would love to know what sort of excitement there is wherever you come from that makes a discreet meeting between Cannith and Lyrandar 'nothing very interesting'." Elashka smirks in a very un-ladylike fashion. "Surely you didn't think I monitor every Housed newcomer to Sharn and just happened to run into you here? Well, we do monitor every newcomer, being the sponsor of the Finder's Guild, but that's beside the point. In any case, if you wish to keep your lips sealed, I understand, and am perfectly willing to leave you alone to luncheon in peace. I just wanted to let you four know that you might have more beings watching you than non-Sharnites might expect."

[Wiz]

Channa clears her throat... "Ummm... are you sure all your information is correct? I was born in Sharn and have lived here all my life."

[PairO'Dice Lost]

"You mean to tell me that it was only the shifter and the half-elf who arrived on the airship?" Elashka grins fiercely. "I knew it. My nephew wasn't able to get a good look at the airship when it was docking, but I didn't think Merrix would have brought any Canniths who weren't loyal to Cannith South first and foremost. Thank you, my dear. So tell me, where do you live? Any friends in the area?"

[Wiz]

Channa frowns, "For someone who specializes in finding things and people, you seem awfully hungry for information about us... could I ask what has brought you here and to such interest about us?"

[Jopustopin]

Sin speaks, looking directly at the half-orc, "I wish to know where you come from, where docking an airship anywhere is considered a "discreet meeting." I think if discreetness was preferred, the houses would have found alternative ways to conduct their business. The "why" that you seek is neither very interesting, very secretive, nor any of your business. Your interrogation is uncalled for. You may follow us around town if you wish, although I would consider the action a large waste of your time."

Sin then looks at Channa, "Considering our actual mission Merrix might be using us as some kind of decoy. We should be cautious."

[PairO'Dice Lost]

Elashka's face settles into an enigmatic smile at Sin's blunt statement. "To be quite honest, I have no interest in you at all, my dear," she says to Channa, "as I already know the details of your little mission. One of the dubious persons you are after, the one whose identity is completely unknown, claimed at one point to be a Tharashk." She sniffs haughtily. "As the House that sponsors the Finder's Guild, it was our opinion that we be the ones to find these fugitives, but it was the opinion of dear Merrix and Solia that Cannith and Lyrandar agents be brought in to find Cannith and Lyrandar impostors."

The half-orc's lip curls slightly as she continues: "I was hoping to find that you were too loose-lipped to be trusted with this mission and tell the others such so my nephew could be assigned to the hunt, but alas, aside from one mention of Merrix by your ironhead here, you deflected my questions well. Now, if you'll excuse me, I believe our conversation is done." With that, she stands and returns to her table. A moment later, your waitress arrives carrying a teapot, a bottle of wine, and three wine glasses on a tray. "I hope the '73 Cyran bianca suits your preferences, sir," she tells Lazarus as she sets the glasses on the table. "And here is your tea, ma'am, with a slice of lime." She looks over at the Tharashk table and lowers her voice. "I hope Mrs. Elashka did not bother you, sirs and madams. Shall I ask the proprietor to speak with her?"

[GodGoblin]

Tarja kept her eyes locked on the Half orc throughout the conversation, her hand tightly gripping the kukri at her waist, She asks too many questions and is very sly.. No wonder no one trusts the city folk.

Her grip relaxed as the woman left and the wine arrived, the stern frown left her face and was once again replaced with a joyful grin.

[Wargor]

"What a fascinating woman." Lazarus murmurs as Elashka walks away. "She makes a good point though, if the houses want these people found, surely the Finders Guild would be better people to ask than us. It seems suspicious to me." He frowns slightly, but is bought back to reality by the return of the halfling. "Sounds delightful, thank you." He says, pouring a glass for everyone before taking a sip. "No need to ask that my dear, I'm sure she meant well."

[Wiz]

Channa looks confused at the half-orc woman as she leaves and shrugs. She pours a cup of the tea for herself, it's sharp and bitter smell not promising anything pleasurable in terms of taste. Then again, most drink it for effect, not enjoyment. "So... why didn't they put the Finder's guild on it... unless the Finder's guild is somehow... not trustworthy." Channa reaches for the papers to start going over them again, then pauses. "Probably best not to review the evidence in a public place." She pauses, then grimaces, "The Finder's Guild would run it's own search if it wanted to, and ignore our efforts... that was a test by Baron Merrix to see if we could keep our mouths shut!"

[GodGoblin]

"I believe you are right so let us enjoy it here before moving on to a more private place" Tarja says reaching for a glass of wine.

[Jopustopin]

Sin eyes the half-orc as she walks away but remains silent for a moment after the encounter. After a moment Sin speaks softly, "Channa I wish to inform you of irregular behavior. Elashka implied that there was a discussion between Tharashk and Cannith as to who should find these impostors; casually dropping that the "unknown individual we are looking for is a Tharashk." Merrix made no mention of the unknown individual claiming to be a Tharashk. If such a discussion took place it is unlikely that Tharashk didn't inform Merrix then and casually telling us the information now. In which case Elashka is lying and us believing it to be true benefits her motives greatly. If what she said is true, then telling us the information now benefits her more than it would benefit us. Either way we should be cautious as it's unlikely that she's accidentally let the information slip or that she's just altruistic."

[Wiz]

Channa nods, "Everything is a little off with this whole situation. Why would she even bring up that the unknown individual had claimed at one point to be of House Tharashk when in fact one of the known individuals was definitely of House Tharashk... I don't know what to make of it, but her assertion that she was trying to trip us up so her family could take over the investigation doesn't really hold water." Her face is thoughtful as she reaches for the tea rather than the glass of wine that was poured for her.

[Wargor]

"I say we ignore her and just try to enjoy ourselves, it's not everyday you get to drink in a place like this." Lazarus grins widely, sipping his wine. "Channa, do try some my dear. But now, to planning. Where should we start?"

[Wiz]

Channa shrugs and reaches instead for the wine, which she sips cautiously. "Hmmmm... it's good. I'm not much of a drinker though, I prefer keeping my wits clear." Channa looks thoughtful, "Well, my first impulse, to consult the Finder's guild without giving them the reason for our search is kind of out. I think we should rent some private space and go over the information we have in detail."

[PairO'Dice Lost]

The waitress returns again in a minute or so, hands clasped behind her back. "Pardon the interruption, but I noticed you were engaged in conversation and wasn't sure if you'd remembered the glyph for ordering. I also wanted to reassure you, after Mrs. Elashka's...visit, that all of our tables are warded with zones of silence, and use illusions to prevent lip-reading. We take the privacy of our patrons seriously. Are we ready to order yet?"

[Jopustopin]

Sin nods, "We are ready to order sustinance. I would like to challenge the chef in making a food which is so spicy that any creature made of flesh would weap in pain. I have yet to taste any food so spicy that I cannot consume it.

[Wiz]

Channa sips her wine again, "This is very good... um... I really don't know though I somehow suspect it might be just perfect with hot-spiced chicken in panya leaves, a side of thrice-poached eggs, and some redeye berries."

[GodGoblin]

Tarja finishes the wine with a wide eyed feline grin, followed by a slight whining noise when she realises its gone. She then looks to Lazarus for her order.

[Wargor]

"Hmmm, Sea Bass, roasted with lemon and garlic, on a bed of lightly poached Vine leaves, with New Potatoes roasted in garlic and rosemary. Two of them please, one for me and my friend here." He says, indicating Tarja. "Thank you for reminding me about the privacy here, much appreciated." He smiles at the halfling lightly, tipping a non-existent hat. "Oh, and another bottle as well!" He tops up the other's glasses with what remains of this bottle.

[PairO'Dice Lost]

The waitress notes everyone's orders, smiling at Sin as she does so. "Oh, he'll like that, Sir. He hasn't had someone challenge him since an elf asked for a dessert crepe that was lighter than air. I'll fetch you that wine, and the chef will be with you shortly." She disappears into the kitchen, returns with another bottle of wine, and leaves again. Over the next few minutes the illusions in the background start fading in brightness as the "sun" sets, and as stars begin to appear one by one above your heads a string quartet emerges from some hidden entrance behind the illusions and begins to play soft music to accompany the meal.

Shortly thereafter a halfling wearing a chef's hat exits the kitchens, two small carts trundling along in his wake. He approaches the table and begins silently unpacking the contents of the carts; all you can see above them is the top of his hat as he gets everything ready. Soon enough, he moves the carts to the side, steps up onto a box to put him level with the table, and slides the top of one cart onto the table to form a small stove. With a snap of his fingers, small flames light under the top of the cart, visible through small grilles on the side, and he places several pans on the stove and gets to work.

The next few minutes are a cross between a cooking competition and a gymnastic exhibition, as the chef adds ingredients to each dish by stepping down to his other cart to retrieve them and tossing them over his shoulder onto the pans, and covers pauses in the cooking by juggling knives while pointing out properties of the herbs he's using and other tidbits of interesting information. At one point, he pulls up an entire cabinet holding tiny vials of spices in liquid and herb form, explaining the function of half of them while adding them one after another to Sin's dish and claiming that the other half are his secret ingredients. Later, he pulls out a tank of water containing a sea bass, kills it quickly and painlessly with a wand he produces that also freezes the water around it into small chunks of ice, and fillets it while telling a story about how the fish was caught.

All too soon, the fire is put out, the chef is packing up his equipment, and your dishes are ready to eat. The merest fumes from Sin's dish are causing everyone else's eyes to water, and when a few drops of the sauce splash onto the table it starts to sizzle and scorch. When the chef is finished packing up, he clasps his hands expectantly and asks if everything is to your satisfaction.

SinYour dish, a variation on Channa's meal with the spiciness kicked up to 11 and beyond, is exceptionally spicy in a way that complements the chicken's flavor without overpowering it. Eating the meal deals you [roll0] subdual damage from the heat and sheer pain, and would sicken you if you weren't a warforged.

[Jopustopin]

Sin sets his weapon down next to him and eats using standard utensils. You can tell by looking at him that this meal is delivering some serious heat to the 'forged. Before the chef leaves Sin speaks, ""This meal is appropriate. I do not recommend serving it to any but the gruffest dwarves of house Kundarak." Sin's voice sounds tighter than usual, as if in pain.


When the chef leaves Sin will speak again (still with a tightness in his speech)
"Channa, Merrix did not mention anyone from House Tharashk. I think either you are mistaken, or he said when I was not around to hear him say it."

[Wiz]

Channa nods biting into her chicken with relish, and quaffing more wine to wash the spicy dish down. "You're absolutely right... it was Kundarak, not Tharashk. My mistake..."

[Wargor]

"This meal is divine!" Lazarus exclaims, relishing the succulent flavours. "Channa, what does the first packet tell us?" He says, drinking his whine.

[Wiz]

Channa interrupts her meal to start opening and laying out the information that was given to them on the four marked fugitives.

[GodGoblin]

Tarja sniffs at the fish cautiously before grinning and raising a slightly clawed hand to pick it up. She catches herself in time, lowers her hand and gingerly picks up the cutlery lined up next to her plate. She starts to shovel the food into her mouth pausing briefly to speak or glug more wine. "So what clues have to got to help us find them? And who first? If this were the wild I would start by finding where they spend most of there time, a watering hole or spring." she says before eating again.

[Wiz]

Channa looks thoughtful, "Not as helpful as I might have thought... where is Oak Towers. I'm thinking we talk to the squeaky warforged first."

[Wargor]

"So our first target would be my cousin of Lyrandar then? Splendid! Oak Towers? I'm not sure, maybe we should ask directions." Lazarus drains the rest of his glass and tops it up, sighing pleasurably over its subtle flavour.

[Jopustopin]

"I'm not sure where Oak Towers is located. I believe it sounds like it would be in Northedge but where exactly, I do not have this information." Sin says

[PairO'Dice Lost]

While you're making plans, your old friend Elashka stands up from the half-orcs' table and wanders over to you again. "I hope you've enjoyed your stay here, my dears; your chef is one of my favorites, and he certainly justifies the multiple-platinum-piece price tag," she says with a little laugh, casually glancing towards the papers on the table. "You certainly look busy with this mission of yours. Is there anything you might need help with? I am a member of the Finder's Guild, after all; if you need contacts or a guide, I would be more than happy to provide."

[Wiz]

As soon as the half-orc wanders in their direction, Channa will fold up the papers so that all she can see is the closed packet. She looks thoughtful, glancing at her companions, "What do you think?"

[Jopustopin]

Sin makes a noise that sounds very much like one who is clearing his throat, "We do not know if we need assistance yet. If it turns out that we need the services you provide we may very well seek you out to provide those services for us."

Sin sounds better already. His voice returning to normal.

[PairO'Dice Lost]

"Excellent, excellent," the half-orc says to Sin, looking somewhat put out at not being able to catch a glimpse of your papers. "I'm sure we could make a wonderfully profitable arrangement." Elashka rummages in her purse, retrieves a small piece of dark polished wood about two by three inches in size and wafer-thin, and holds it up to the light, showing both sides. One side is inscribed with a glowing mark which the more cosmopolitan among you easily recognize as an arcane mark; Tarja has probably seen a few of them on Kundarak documents as well. The other side has her name, her several titles, and an address inscribed on it in a formal script.

"When you wish to get in touch with me, here is my card. If you wish to contact me in a more discreet manner, you can snap the card and speak a short message and I'll receive it." Elashka shoots Tarja a significant glance. "Though I'm sure I don't need to explain this to you; as scions of your respective houses, I'm sure you are all already familiar with the workings of Sharn high society." She lays the card on the table with a slight smirk and waves casually to you all as she turns to leave and returns to her table.

[Wargor]

Lazarus takes the card and slips it into an inner pocket, his eyes lingering on Elashka as she saunters away. "What a fascinating woman. So, are we all finished? We should probably get the bill."

[PairO'Dice Lost]

The waitress notices Lazarus looking discreetly around for her and comes to the table. She lays a slip of paper in front of him, says "When you're ready, sir," and retreats.

Everyone's meal is totaled up on the check, and the final price is underlined twice at the bottom: 3 platinum per person.

[Jopustopin]

Sin pulls out a handful of gold. Thirty of them and stacks them in three neat rows of ten. While he is performing this action he speaks, "We should make sure that the card she gave us only has the function she claims it has."

[Wargor]

Lazarus turns to Sin and gestures at the coins. "Pick them back up." Calling the waitress back over, he gives her his most charming smile. "As we are on official house business the bill is to be charged jointly to house Lyrandar and house Cannith directly, as expenses."

[PairO'Dice Lost]

The waitress smiles and takes back the receipt. "Of course, sir. We hope you enjoyed your meal, and we hope you come back to see us soon." As the illusory stars overhead are joined by illusory fireflies and an illusory comet, the waitress leads you back to the front door; Elashka waves farewell as you pass her table.

[GodGoblin]

"So where do we find these towers?" Tarja asks the others. "I have no knowledge of this place but I agree asking her would have been the wrong choice"

[PairO'Dice Lost]

After everyone takes some time to make plans in hushed voices for a while outside the restaurant, Channa leads the way to Oak Towers by the most direct route she can manage. Soon enough you all reach the address at which the warforged "Squeaky" is supposedly serving as a bodyguard.

[Wargor]

Lazarus strides up to the door, and placing a hand on the crystal at his belt, knocks firmly upon it. "Knock knock!" He cries cheerfully.

[GodGoblin]

"A very direct approach..." Tarja says hand on her kukri, standing close behind Lazurus ready for anything that may come from within.

[PairO'Dice Lost]

No sooner does Tarja finish speaking than the double doors slowly open outwards just enough to reveal a warforged waiting behind them. It is mostly black, with just a few white markings: an inverted triangle on its torso with some spots in it, bands around its wrists and ankles...after a moment, you realize that the markings are supposed to suggest a formal butler's outfit, complete with vest and ruffles around the wrists and neck, though the sheen of adamantine armor on a butler somewhat ruins the image. "Greetings. May I ask who is calling, and whether they have made an appointment?"

[GodGoblin]

Tarja inspects the warforged, looking it up and down. She tries to speak but doesnt quite know what to say so she nudges the half elf forwards slightly in attempt spur him on to address the bulter.