Session 25:
Enter Siara

[JadedDM]: Sardonx 30th, Flameday in the year 666.  It is 13 bells when the party meets, once again, at the Wolf Blaze Inn.  The place is fairly lively this day, although the inn's favored residents, the Tainted Hands, are nowhere to be seen.  Indeed, it has been several days since anyone has seen them.  This leaves Gaheris quite pleased, as he sits at their usual table, sipping a glass of fine wine.

[Eskar]: Eskar sits at the table, leaning back in his chair with nothing but a cup of water in his hand. He chews his lip, clearly thinking hard.

[Jasmin]: Jasmin sits next to Gaheris, her feet gently resting in his lap. She looks rather comfortable with her head tilted back to look up at the ceiling, and her long hair seems to sweep the floor. "I wonder where they disappeared to."

[Daufer]: Daufer walks into the inn wearing dark grey priestly vestments. He spots the rest of the Shadow Bats and makes his way over to them, giving everyone a solemn greeting before sitting down.

[Aidan]: Aidan steps into the Inn , looking around.  Having spotted the group, with no sign of the Tainted Hands, he walks comfortably around the crowd and towards the table and sits, nodding to the others, holding a scared-looking Amaris in a hand under his cloak.

[Eskar]: Eskar nods to Daufer as he joins them, and then to Aidan as well. "That is what I am wondering too. If they are gone it is meaning they are doing something."

[JadedDM]: Gaheris:  "If who is gone?" he asks casually.  "The Tainted Hands?  I say good riddance.  Maybe they were eaten by a monster they couldn't handle."

[Jasmin]: Jasmin gives Gaheris a little nudge with her foot. "Be nice now, Gaheris."

[Siara]: Siara laughs politely at the barkeep's poor attempt at a joke, before finishing up her glass of wine.  Her gold eyes glance over her shoulder to the table where the Shadow Bats are sitting.  She smiles warmly at the barkeep.  "Please excuse me.  I'm meeting someone."  Siara rises, her golden brown dress lightly falling about her ankles, her hair softly framing her face.  A well-trained smile is on her lips as she approaches the group.  Bending lightly, Siara places a kiss on Gaheris' cheek.  "Good to see you again, Gaheris.  May I join you?"

[JadedDM]: Gaheris gives Jasmin a venomous glance.  "To our enemy?  Or do you so quickly forget that?"

[Jasmin]: Jasmin's eyes widen at the sight of strange girl placing a kiss on Gaheris' cheek. "And just who are you?"

[Eskar]: Eskar's eyes turn to this new human acting so familiar to Gaheris. The duergar keeps his attention on her, while banishing his thirst with a long draught from his mug.

[Daufer]: Daufer rolls his eyes at the couple's bickering. He barely spares the new human a glance as he busies himself with ordering an ale from the barmaid.

[JadedDM]: Gaheris blinks, caught off guard by the interruption of his tirade.  He stands up politely.  "Oh, Siara.  I didn't see you when we entered."  He gives a polite bow.  "A pleasure to see you again.  Yes, please, have a seat."  He leans forward a bit and says quietly, "Avoid the dwarf, though.  His stench clings to those around him."

[Aidan]: "Perhaps their loss can be turned to an opportunity for us."  Aidan looks the newcomer up and down quickly, raising an eyebrow at her intrusion, but looks instead to the others to continue their conversation.

[Eskar]: Eskar is prodigiously filthy, with nearly every surface on him covered in a black soot, to varying degrees. He looks towards Aidan. "Can you be to finding and watching them with magic?"

[Aidan]: Aidan considers this for a moment.  "I suppose I could, but not just at this moment.  I think I prefer having a break from them for a time."

[Siara]: "Thank you."  Siara catches Jasmin's eyes and smiles sweetly, taking the seat next to her before introducing herself to the woman.  "I'm Siara Jovian.  I work at the Blue Lantern."  She is about 5’7” with shoulder length brown hair, gold eyes, and a slender build.  She looks to be in her early 20s.

[JadedDM]: Gaheris resumes his seat.  "Siara has shown an interest in joining our illustrious group."

[Aidan]: Aidan's eyebrows creep towards his hairline as he gives the woman another glance.  "In joining our group?"

[Jasmin]: "Blue Lantern?" Jasmin asks. "Isn't that where you go to gamble, Gaheris?"

[JadedDM]: Gaheris nods.  "It's the brothel and gambling house in the merchant district."

[Daufer]: Daufer sips his ale, watching the human woman.

[Eskar]: Gaheris's comment brings Eskar's attention back to Siara. "Are you using magic yes?"

[Jasmin]: "I didn't realize you were making new friends," she says in a tone that suggests that she isn't all that happy.

[Siara]: "Gaheris is a favorite patron of mine."  She rests her gaze on each of the members before looking to Aidan.  "Yes.  I've been hearing of your successes lately.  Gaheris tells me that you all may be interested in adding one more."

[Daufer]: "Is that what he said?" Daufer says, giving Gaheris a sidelong glance.

[JadedDM]: Gaheris leans back a bit in his chair.  "I think her talents could prove quite useful to us."

[Jasmin]: "What exactly are her talents?"

[Eskar]: The duergar closes his mouth and finishes his drink, placing it on the table. "And those talents are...?"

[JadedDM]: Gaheris:  "She's something of a treasure hunter," he explains.

[Aidan]: "She certainly looks the part," Aidan says sarcastically.

[Daufer]: Daufer takes another sip from his mug.

[Siara]: To Eskar, pleasantly.  "I've been trained for years in the Blue Lantern.  And I'm excellent with a sabre."  She chuckles at Gaheris.  "And yes, I do enjoy a bit of treasuring hunting every now and then."

[Jasmin]: Jasmin crosses her arms as she looks between Siara and Gaheris though she remains quiet.

[Eskar]: Eskar nods, patting his beard, sending little clouds of dust into the air. He furrows his brow and begins to chew on his lip, though remains silent.

[JadedDM]: Gaheris:  "And I figure, we could use some extra help, considering all the enemies we've made:  The Vermin Plague, the Bloody Maw...and of course, the Tainted Hands."

[Jasmin]: "Extra help?"

[Aidan]: "Well, perhaps some extra help would be useful considering how often some people prefer to assist us.  Where has Meschior been, anyway?"

[Daufer]: "Well, one more can't hurt, I suppose. And I suppose it would be a boon, over present company," Daufer says, looking into his mug. "If she can use a weapon, that just means one less person to look after the mage."

[Siara]: Her voice warm, she speaks to Gaheris.  "Indeed."  She shifts toward Jasmin, crossing her legs.  "You'd be surprised what an extra pair of hands can do for a group."

[JadedDM]: Gaheris:  "The fire-eater?  I heard he was getting hitched, the poor bastard."

[Aidan]: Aidan ignores the hobgoblin.  "Meschior?  Getting married?  To who?"

[Eskar]: After popping a piece of charcoal into his mouth and finishing it, Eskar finally nods. "She will be a good help, I am thinking."

[Jasmin]: "The librarian," Jasmin says to Aidan, but she keeps her eyes on Gaheris and Siara.

[JadedDM]: Gaheris:  "Yeah, Loreleii...or whatever her name was."

[Siara]: Siara watches Gaheris with an intense interest, as if she is enthralled by most of what he says.  The fact that Jasmin sits between them, doesn't seem to bother her.

[Aidan]: Aidan looks taken aback for a moment, startling the small bat under his cloak to screech and hop onto the table.  "Meschior and Loreleii are...what?  Since when?"

[Daufer]: "About a month ago," Daufer says, in a bored tone. "Though, I don't recall the librarian ever giving her reply."

[JadedDM]: Gaheris gives Siara a slight grin, before polishing off his wine.

[Jasmin]: Jasmin narrows her eyes before finally pulling her gaze from the two of them to Aidan. "Meschior said she hadn't replied yet, but he seemed confident that she would say yes."

[JadedDM]: Gaheris:  "I hope they don't expect us to attend the ceremony.  It'll probably be as hot as the Nine Hells.  Not to mention boring.  Those two are about as interesting as a couple of old rocks."

[Jasmin]: "I'll attend if invited. I like Meschior."

[Aidan]: Aidan sits back in his chair.  "It doesn't sound at all like they would mesh well together."

[Siara]: While listening to the others, Siara takes a moment to quietly wave down a barmaid and order another glass of wine.  Politely, she speaks to Gaheris.  "Gaheris, darling, would you care for anything?"

[Eskar]: The duergar sits up in his seat now, paying full attention. "I am thinking less gossip, more business is good. Are you having jobs in mind, Gaheris?"

[JadedDM]: Gaheris:  "I could use another glass, thanks," he says to Siara.  Then, reluctantly, he turns to the dwarf.  "Actually, that was the other reason for calling this meeting.  Any ideas?  Now is a golden opportunity, with the Tainted Hands out of our hair."

[Daufer]: Daufer shakes his head. "I've been busy, lately," Daufer says, massaging a cramp.

[JadedDM]: Eskar begins to feel a slight, burning sensation right over his heart.

[Siara]: Siara lightly brushes Jasmin's arm.  "How about you, sugar?  You look like you could use a drink."  The gold in her eyes is warm.  "Do you drink wine?"

[Eskar]: Eskar shakes his head. "Nothing is new. But since we are clearing out one temple our luck may be changed right? Vassus still waits."

[Jasmin]: Jasmin shifts a bit from Siara's touch. "No, thank you. I'm fine for the moment," she says as sweetly as possible. She looks almost tense.

[Siara]: Slowly, Siara slides her eyes away from the woman and orders.

[Aidan]: "I haven't really been looking out for business opportunities, either.  I don't suppose any of the nobles need any assistance?  We haven't had much exposure with them since...whats-his-name with the gremlins."

[Daufer]: "Vassus? Another temple?"

[JadedDM]: As they sit and talk, the front door swings open and a small figure, perhaps only three feet in height, enters.  He is wearing completely black robes and has his hood up, obscuring his face.  The bright light of the burning blaze above seems to bother him.

[JadedDM]: Gaheris nods.  "A long, lost temple of Renos .  We tried to find it once, but suffice to say...things went south."

[Daufer]: "Oh," Daufer says, a hint of disappointment apparent in his voice.

[Jasmin]: "Trying to go for Vassus again is probably a bad idea," Jasmin says, glancing towards the newcomer to the inn.

[JadedDM]: Gaheris:  "The canary really died on that one.  I'm not sure if it's wise to try again, but...there could be great riches if we survive it."

[Eskar]: "We should be trying again, I am not seeing why it is a bad idea." Eskar looks over the rest of the party slowly. "Things are... different yes."

[Siara]: The conversation finally peaks her interest.  Siara leans forward, ever so slightly.  "I've heard rumor of treasure there."  A look to the others.  "What are you afraid of?  You all seem quite capable."

[Aidan]: "I'd prefer not attempting it again.  Besides, didn't we sort of need Meschior for that journey?  I'm sure he's busy, or something."

[Jasmin]: "Afraid?" Jasmin laughs. "I'm hardly afraid, but we need a priest of Renos for the trip. Meschior is the only priest of Renos, and he is busy at the moment." 

[JadedDM]: The short man in black approaches their table and then coughs to get their attention.

[Daufer]: Daufer looks over at the man in black. "What is it, little man?"

[Eskar]: "Who is saying he is too busy for him? We have not asked." Eskar turns to the little person.

[JadedDM]: Ryak:  "It is I, Ryak of Shadowbite," he says.  "The Nightmaster sends for you."  Red eyes peer out from under the goblin's hood, squinting against the bright light.

[Daufer]: "Shadowbite? What business do you have with us?" Daufer growls.

[JadedDM]: Ryak:  "A favor, being called in," he explains.

[Aidan]: Aidan sits up and raises a hand for Amaris to hop into it.  "The Nightmaster has need of us?  It's taken him a long time to call on that favor."

[Daufer]: "A favor? What favor? What's the meaning of this?"

[Jasmin]: Jasmin looks to Daufer. "One of us was brought back to life by the will of Shadowbite."

[Daufer]: Daufer stands up abruptly. "You made a deal with these... these shadow tricksters? Who was it?"

[Aidan]: "While you were away, we took advantage of the services of the temple.  If you'd rather not assist Shadowbite, then perhaps you can go back to your orcs."  Aidan turns towards Ryak.  "What does the Nightmaster require of us?"

[Eskar]: Eskar's hand subconsciously moves to his chest, feeling for something under his armor there. The duergar gets to his feet. "That is settled then."

[Siara]: Siara leans back, listening.  She does not speak.  Her eyelids lower, concentrating on all the strange information.

[JadedDM]: Ryak:  "To meet him at the temple.  He will explain everything there."

[JadedDM]: Gaheris slowly stands up, looking anxious.

[Jasmin]: Jasmin stands from her chair, pushing her hair back over her shoulder as she does so. "Does it matter who it was, Daufer? What is done is done."

[Aidan]: Aidan stands and replaces his hood on his head, looking to the others to lead.

[Eskar]: Eskar raises his brow at Jasmin's comment. He starts on the way to the temple, in the lead for a change.

[Siara]: After Siara stands, she moves to Gaheris' other side, resting a reassuring hand on his lower back.  "Shall I journey to the temple with you?  This is not my debt, but I will stand with you if you ask."

[JadedDM]: Gaheris nods to her.  "Thanks.  We may need your help, depending on what he asks," he says to Siara.

[Jasmin]: Jasmin glances over to Siara and Gaheris, her eyes narrowing once again before finally she clenches her fists and storms off after Eskar.

[JadedDM]: Gaheris:  "Come along, Daufer.  I'll explain on the way."

[Daufer]: "It seems you have a lot to explain for," Daufer growls, but follows anyway.

[Siara]: Siara's eyes follow after Jasmin thoughtfully.  She seemed upset.  She takes Gaheris' arm casually, her steps falling in line with his.

[JadedDM]: The group of six, with Ryak tagging along, walks under the afternoon sun toward the dark Temple of Shadowbite in the merchant district.  The ebony structure seems particularly ominous this day, and somehow the sun seems a bit dimmer around it.  Gaheris speaks as they walk.  "You remember the Wrath Day Tournament, right?  Jasmin and the dwarf both participated.  And both lost," he adds, a little bitterly.  "Jasmin was spared, but the dwarf was not.  The others pitched in to have Shadowbite bring him back."

[Daufer]: Daufer listens stonily and silently to Gaheris' story.

[JadedDM]: Gaheris continues.  "As the dwarf isn't a follower of Shadowbite, the Nightmaster--the high cleric of darkness--insisted a favor in return for the task.  The others agreed to it."

[Eskar]: The duergar remains silent as well, trudging along to the temple at a pace which is active for him and an easy stroll for the others.

[Daufer]: "Did you agree to it?" Daufer asks.

[Siara]: Siara has released her hold on Gaheris, walking a few steps behind.

[Jasmin]: "Gaheris wasn't with us at the time. Aidan and I were the ones that agreed to it."

[JadedDM]: Gaheris:  "I paid nothing for the dwarf's return.  I saw it as a poor investment."

[Daufer]: "I see."

[Aidan]: "He has been a helpful ally, Gaheris.  And a favor to the temple is not too hard a burden to bear."

[Daufer]: "I guess we'll see how much of a burden it is."

[Eskar]: Eskar rubs at his chest, rolling his shoulders. He coughs but continues on.

[JadedDM]: Once they reach the temple, young Ryak pushes open the doors to let them inside.  It takes a few moments for their eyes to adjust to the sudden darkness.  This temple has no windows to let in the light or burning braziers or candles.  The only illumination is sparse torches of faerie fire, blue flame that gives off little light and no heat.

[JadedDM]: Ryak:  "This way," he says, leading them inside the main chamber which is fairly empty of activity at this hour.  He walks down one of the corridors to the right, taking them to a set of large, black doors with the insignia of a crescent moon upon them.  "He awaits you in here."

[Siara]: Siara remains close to Gaheris and the others, in the dimly lit room.

[Jasmin]: Jasmin opens the black doors before her, moving slowly to step inside the room beyond.

[Aidan]: Aidan immediately sweeps the hood of his cloak off his head as he follows Jasmin past the doors and into the dark room.

[Eskar]: Eskar moves in behind Jasmin, looking around. His hand rests on the pommel of his blade.

[JadedDM]: Inside is a meeting hall of some sort.  A black table, shaped like a crescent moon, stands in the center, with chairs all around it.  Sitting inside the crescent is another goblin in black, but this one is much older.  He clutches a walking stick with one, gnarled hand and rests the other on the table.  The Nightmaster, the most powerful cleric in Voxis, makes no move to acknowledge anyone has entered.  He simply waits.  Although the only light in this room is another couple of faerie fire torches, he keeps his hood down, as if even this much light bothers him.

[Jasmin]: Jasmin raises an eyebrow at the sight of the Nightmaster as she moves to sit down in one of the chairs.

[Daufer]: Daufer enters the chamber but makes no move to sit. Instead, he stands with his arms crossed, looking warily at the Nightmaster.

[Eskar]: Eskar takes a seat as well.

[Aidan]: Aidan does not sit, but stands calmly near Jasmin and Eskar's chairs, his hands clasped before him.  Amaris rests quietly on his shoulder.

[JadedDM]: Ryak closes the doors after them, remaining outside.  The Nightmaster slowly raises his head and speaks in a raspy voice.  "Please, have a seat.  It has long since I have looked upon you.  But now is the time to put your skills to the test, and repay the debt you have acquired."

[Siara]: Siara takes a seat near Eskar, her expression blank and unsure.

[JadedDM]: Gaheris sits down, as well, near one of the horns of the crescent.

[Jasmin]: "What is it that you want us to do?" Jasmin asks.

[JadedDM]: Nightmaster:  "Only to serve this city's best interests...and therefore, your own."  He glances to Daufer.  "Ah, you must be Daufer, servant of the Lady of War, D'lokka.  I have heard much of you."

[Daufer]: Daufer looks nonplussed at the Nightmaster's knowledge of him. "That is my name, trickster. I have heard nothing of you, from my companions."

[JadedDM]: Nightmaster:  "No?  How interesting."  He then turns back to the main group.  "Last we met, I told you of a war brewing...a war among the gods, and that this very city would be the battleground."

[Jasmin]: "I remember."

[Eskar]: Eskar looks blankly at the Nightmaster.

[Daufer]: "A war?" Daufer echoes silently, mouthing the word.

[Aidan]: Aidan nods.  "So this favor has something to do with that?"

[JadedDM]: The Nightmaster continues.  "The three gods bicker and fight among each other, as they always do.  They were not aware that a fourth power threatened them all, until it was too late.  One by one, did the temples of Voxis begin to weaken and fall...falling prey to the forces of Chaos and Destruction."

[Jasmin]: "I think we all know who you speak of."

[Eskar]: Eskar nods. "You are wanting us to end that threat to you."

[Siara]: Siara stays submissively silent before the Nightmaster.

[JadedDM]: The Nightmaster nods.  "Good.  Yes, I speak of the Vile One, the God Slayer, the Soul Eater...he has many names.  And he works through his most loyal of followers...I believe you have encountered them before."

[Jasmin]: "The Bloody Maw," Jasmin says calmly.

[Siara]: The courtesan raises a brow and glances at the others.

[JadedDM]: Nightmaster:  "Yes, the Bloody Maw...a cult dedicated to opening the portal to the Abyss and beginning a great war.  A war that will soak this land with the blood of the faithless, giving tremendous power to the Devourer of Souls."

[Jasmin]: "We know of their threat, Nightmaster. We know it all too well."

[Eskar]: Eskar scratches at his beard. "And your ally, the Rat King...? Is he to be finding us wounded when we are done?"

[JadedDM]: Nightmaster:  "He has his role to play in this, as do you.  After all, you both are in my debt.  For it is I, through the will of Shadowbite, that returned you both to life."

[Aidan]: "The Rat King is also in debt to you and Shadowbite?"

[Jasmin]: Jasmin smiles faintly, glancing down to the table. "Shadowbite was the one to bring him back from the dead."

[Daufer]: Daufer lets out a sigh of disgust at the mention of their return to life.

[Eskar]: The duergar nods grimly, falling into silence.

[Aidan]: "I had assumed something more was going on..." Aidan looks uncomfortable for blurting that out.

[Siara]: Siara swallows and shifts in her seat, finding it hard to sit still with such talk.

[JadedDM]: Nightmaster:  "Technically, only the dwarf need serve us.  The debt is his and his alone.  But Shadowbite believes, and so do I, that all of you have a stake in this, and it will take all of you to stop the Maw and their demon god."

[Daufer]: "Just tell us what it is you want," Daufer says.

[JadedDM]: Nightmaster:  "The nobility of this city is the primary tool of the Maw.  They manipulate them, like puppets.  Some serve them willingly, some unwillingly.  In either case, to eliminate the nobility would be to rob the Maw of their most powerful weapon."

[Jasmin]: "You want use to eliminate all of the nobility?"

[JadedDM]: Nightmaster:  "You need not destroy the snake, only cut off its head.  The body will die soon after.  I wish you to assassinate the Viscount."

[Jasmin]: Jasmin stares at the Nightmaster as if he was completely insane.

[Siara]: "And how is that beneficial to the rest of us?"

[Eskar]: Eskar nods grimly once again. "And that is the debt paid in full?"

[Daufer]: "Assassination? I knew you tricksters would resort to something so dishonorable."

[JadedDM]: The Nightmaster nods to the dwarf.  He then looks to Siara.  "Ah, I see.  It is wealth that motivates you then?  The Viscount is the richest man in the city.  Upon his death, his vast treasures would be, for a time, left unguarded..."

[Jasmin]: "Would not the other nobility start fighting for his position upon his death?"

[JadedDM]: Nightmaster:  "They most assuredly would.  And this would cause enough chaos to disrupt the Bloody Maw.  This would buy us the time to eliminate them and stop their plan."

[Siara]: Siara nods, smiling at the thought of riches.

[Aidan]: Aidan considers all this quietly.

[Eskar]: "This is good business."

[Daufer]: "Why doesn't the dwarf just challenge the Viscount to a duel? That will solve your problems and not drag us into it," Daufer says.

[JadedDM]: Nightmaster:  "Eskar was unsuccessful in defeating Garn...he certainly would not survive a duel with the Viscount.  And even if he did, this would not topple the nobility, only change the leadership."

[Jasmin]: "Is the Viscount apart of the Bloody Maw?"

[Siara]: "There are sometimes better ways to get what you want," she says to Daufer.

[Daufer]: "I fail to see how sneaking around to kill one man is better," Daufer says.

[JadedDM]: Gaheris:  "Hold on here.  I think we are missing a much bigger issue here.  How could we even do it?  It's suicide.  The Viscount never leaves his mansion, which is huge and well protected.  He has many loyal guards and who knows what else protecting him."

[JadedDM]: Nightmaster:  "Yes, we believe he is their leader, or at least someone close to leadership."

[Siara]: "Powerful men are often lonely, Gaheris.  There could be safer ways."

[Aidan]: "Is that belief according to Shadowbite's insight?" Aidan asks quietly.

[Eskar]: Eskar shrugs. "I am sure we will find a way to manage."

[Jasmin]: Jasmin looks to Gaheris, and then quickly looks to Siara as she speaks. "...She's right," she says almost bitterly. "Guards can be taken care of very easily using the proper distraction. If the Viscount is apart of the Bloody Maw, then I'm going to help with this."

[JadedDM]: Nightmaster:  "You will not be alone in this.  I have men who have been watching and studying the mansion and searching for better ways inside.  They can help you."

[Jasmin]: Jasmin looks to the others. "I've been saying for awhile now that the Bloody Maw is dangerous. Do any of you still not believe me on this?"

[Eskar]: Eskar nods. "When will we be meeting them?"

[Aidan]: "They are dangerous, of course," Aidan agrees, nodding to Jasmin.

[JadedDM]: Nightmaster:  "Now," he says, and he gestures to the doors.  They open, seemingly of their own accord, and two more goblins enter the room.  One is roguish looking with a rodent-like demeanor, the other a goblin with skin as black as the night and two sharp blades resting at his belt.

[JadedDM]: Nightmaster:  "The Rat King, as he calls himself, and Sonak, our loyal assassin.  I believe you have met."

[Eskar]: Eskar gets to his feet, standing clear of the chairs to face the Rat King. The duergar looks from the thief to the assassin and back.

[Aidan]: Aidan moves out of the way of Jasmin and Eskar's chairs and steps closer to Gaheris and Siara.  "We have met, yes."

[JadedDM]: The Rat King has a bone white scar across the middle of his face and his fingers sparkle with a number of shiny rings.  He frowns at the sight of the party but says nothing.  His companion remains stoic, as well.  He leans against the wall and crosses his arms.

[Jasmin]: Jasmin nearly laughs as she looks to the Rat King and Sonak. "Dangerous enough for even members of the Vermin Plague to be apart of all of this."

[JadedDM]: The Nightmaster chuckles slightly.  "My dear, the Vermin Plague are in our employ.  They are our underground means of fighting the Bloody Maw."

[Eskar]: Eskar looks the Rat King in the eye. "Well?"

[JadedDM]: The Rat King glares at Eskar, the one who killed him, and his hands hover dangerously over his throwing knives.  The Nightmaster clears his throat lightly, though, and the Rat King seems to think better of whatever he was about to do.  He approaches the table, but does not sit down.  "Sonak and I, under the cover of darkness, have been studying the mansion and its defenses, with the help of the priests and their scrying.  We have learned much."

[Jasmin]: "What have you learned?"

[JadedDM]: Rat King:  "The mansion is guarded by a number of soldiers and guard dogs.  Attempting to fight our way inside would be suicide.  Even once inside, however, there are further defenses.  As it turns out, when the Tainted Hands first struck it big...before they broke up, each member gave the Viscount of that time a special line of defense.  These defenses remain to this day."

[Aidan]: "What sort of special line of defense?"

[Eskar]: Eskar doesn't blink nor take his eyes off of the Rat King. "Are you to be coming?"

[JadedDM]: Rat King:  "Of course," he snaps at the dwarf, before answering the wizard's question.  "Their warrior, Garek, trained the captain guard, a woman named Dejo.  She is very skilled and dangerous, and has sworn her fealty to the Viscount."

[Daufer]: Daufer stirs. "Garek."

[JadedDM]: The Rat King continues.  "The party's wizard, Raizhen, created a magical golem that serves the Viscount's every command.  It is said to be invulnerable to most attacks."

[Daufer]: Daufer's eyes widen.

[Eskar]: "This is sounding like much of a challenge, yes. Are we to go as is? And when?"

[Aidan]: "Raizhen was part of the Tainted Hands?"

[Jasmin]: "Who is Raizhen?"

[JadedDM]: Rat King:  "Their cleric, Zikar, gave him a magical statuette.  It is an owl that transforms into a real owl, and serves as the Viscount's secret spy.  It speaks to him, in his mind, telling him whatever it sees."

[Aidan]: "Raizhen was Loreleii's grandfather," Aidan says simply.

[Jasmin]: "What did Kricket give?"

[JadedDM]: Rat King:  "Their leader, Kricket, swore his own fealty that he, and his descendents, would serve as the Viscount's bodyguards, should they ever be needed."

[Jasmin]: "...That is where they could be right now."

[Siara]: "We could encounter the Tainted Hands, as well?"  Her voice holds an edge of surprise.

[Aidan]: "Or they could be gone, and unavailable to answer the Viscount's call."

[Jasmin]: "And Teya?"

[JadedDM]: Rat King:  "Teya, the last member, gave to him a magical blade, armor, and shield to protect him."

[Eskar]: Eskar scowls. "And are we having a way to get around any of that?"

[JadedDM]: Sonak speaks up.  "We have found a possible way into the mansion, through the sewers.  The kitchen staff, in the basement, dumps their trash into one of the pipes.  We believe we can get in through there."

[JadedDM]: Nightmaster:  "I'm sure the eight of you, working together, can come up with something....using all of your unique talents."

[Jasmin]: Jasmin sighs softly as she thinks about all of this.

[Eskar]: "Very well."

[JadedDM]: Rat King:  "Right....well, any ideas then?"

[Daufer]: "If we kill the Viscount, the nobility will be in disarray, yes. But they are mere puppets, according to you. How exactly will his death deal the final blow to the Bloody Maw?"

[JadedDM]: Nightmaster:  "It will not.  Rather, it will only help to cause enough disarray to allow us to deal with death blow."

[Eskar]: "When do we go?"

[Jasmin]: "We need a plan before we go, Eskar."

[JadedDM]: Rat King:  "Tonight, if we can come up with a decent plan by then.  It's best to work under cover of darkness, regardless of what we do."

[Aidan]: "I think perhaps we should discuss this on our own and see what resources we have available to us before agreeing to act so soon."

[Jasmin]: Jasmin looks to the Nightmaster. "Are the current Tainted Hands apart of the Bloody Maw, or are they simply pawns in all of this as well?"

[JadedDM]: Nightmaster:  "We are still uncertain to their agenda or motives.  But they cannot be trusted."

[Siara]: Siara shakes her head.  "No, they cannot."

[Jasmin]: Jasmin gives a little nod, but seems a little on the disappointed side. "I saw we go through the pipes, like was suggested. Do we have a layout of the actual mansion?"

[JadedDM]: Rat King:  "Unfortunately not.  We were not able to actually get inside."

[Siara]: Quietly to Gaheris.  "Perhaps we should discuss the rest of this elsewhere."

[JadedDM]: Nightmaster:  "Do what you must, but this room is protected from scrying, and the Vile One has eyes and ears everywhere.  Be wary of speaking of this in the open."

[Eskar]: "We should stay here." Eskar finally takes his eyes from the Rat King. "Once we are in we should be splitting up or staying together? Two groups of four."

[Jasmin]: "It would probably be best to stay together."

[JadedDM]: Sonak:  "One group to infiltrate, and another to cause a distraction, perhaps?"

[Eskar]: Eskar nods. "It is good yes. The distraction will need a getaway."

[JadedDM]: The Nightmaster stands up.  "I will leave you to your planning then.  The gods go with you."  He stands and hobbles out, the clack of his walking staff echoing behind him.

[Daufer]: "Distract the guards? We have to live in this city. It means incarceration, possibly execution, for anyone who gets caught."

[Eskar]: "Distract the guards of the mansion yes, who won't matter after we are done doing."

[JadedDM]: Sonak:  "Does your group not have magic we can make use of?"

[Daufer]: "Fine. I will do this. Much better to act in the open, than to skulk around in the sewers."

[Jasmin]: Jasmin rolls her eyes at Daufer. "Ask Aidan as he is our mage."

[Eskar]: Eskar looks at Aidan. "Any spells for retreat?"

[JadedDM]: Rat King:  "Our own magic is a bit limited, I admit."

[Aidan]: Aidan looks to Eskar and Jasmin.  "Nothing I have available to me will be too useful to retreat."

[Jasmin]: "I don't really think we should be worrying about the retreat at the moment. We should probably worry about the Viscount's defenses."

[Eskar]: "Should we not be splitting up?  It is the best chance I am thinking."

[Aidan]: "Perhaps we should go to the library and see what information we have available to us before we settle on anything."

[Siara]: "I think we may be acting a little hastily."  Siara finally speaks up.  "There is a lot to be considered here."

[JadedDM]: Gaheris:  "I think so, too.  Eight people are too large a group for this."

[JadedDM]: The Rat King glances to Siara.  "Ain't seen you before.  You got something to say, sweetheart?"

[Eskar]: "You can be going alone Aidan yes? Too more is being strange to see... Alert the enemy." Eskar turns back to the Rat King.

[Daufer]: "Have the warriors and the goblins go to the mansion. The rest stay outside to cause the distraction."

[Jasmin]: "The warriors would be me and Eskar wouldn't it?"

[Aidan]: Aidan raises an eyebrow at Eskar, but nods to the group, anyway.  "Very well then.  I will see if I can find something more helpful at the library."  Aidan starts to walk towards the doors.

[Siara]: Siara rests her eyes on the Rat King, her voice like liquid gold.  "We would not have met before now."

[Eskar]: "The distraction should be inside I am thinking, my friend priest."

[JadedDM]: Sonak:  "Don't even think about plotting to betray us, mage," he calls after him.

[Aidan]: "I wouldn't dream of it, Sonak."  Aidan leaves the room and makes his way out of the Temple , and towards the library.

[Daufer]: "I'll go as well," Daufer says. "I must armor myself, anwyay." He leaves, following the mage.

[Jasmin]: Jasmin watches Aidan and Daufer leave.

[JadedDM]: The mage and cleric depart, leaving the bleak darkness of the temple and returning to the bright sunlit city.

[Eskar]: Eskar looks right at Sonak. "That is something we should be dealing now. We are allies for this mission. Why not forever?"

[JadedDM]: Sonak:  "What are you getting at, dwarf?"

[Eskar]: "Do you really want to be fighting us? I was never wanting to kill the Vermin Plague."

[JadedDM]: Rat King:  "Is that why you split my head open?" he snarls.  "I am working with you because it is the will of my god, but rest assured, when we're done, I'll still be seeking my vengeance."

[Daufer]: "Mage," Daufer says outside. "It seems we must put aside our differences for the time being, if we want to see this through alive. I'm willing to do so, if you are as well."

[Jasmin]: Jasmin leans back in her chair. "I wonder if Kricket would have a map of the mansion."

[Eskar]: Eskar raises his brow at the Rat King. "To have your head split again? It is not good business to have powerful enemies. I am not wanting you to be mine."

[JadedDM]: Rat King:  "I will not be caught off guard next time," he says.  "In any case, we have more pressing matters at hand now."

[Aidan]: Aidan cringes briefly as he turns towards the hobgoblin, but nods his head.  "I don't like this, though.  This is not at all a sane plan, and I'm not certain it would be very harmful for the Bloody Maw."

[Siara]: "That would seem likely," her attention now turned to Jasmin.  "Are you familiar with him?"

[Daufer]: "I had my own suspicions as well," Daufer muses. "That trickster dodged my question quite easily."

[Jasmin]: "Familiar isn't exactly the word I would use," Jasmin says. "I don't see why we couldn't pick the lock to his room to see if he has a map hidden away some where though."

[Eskar]: Eskar shakes his head in disgust. "So be it. I am thinking we should split into groups such as myself, Rat, Daufer, Aidan as distraction and rest to kill."

[Siara]: "Kricket is a favorite patron of mine.  Perhaps I could convince him to visit the Blue Lantern. And you could pay his room a visit."

[JadedDM]: Sonak:  "What sort of distraction, though?  It would have to buy the other group enough time to finish the job.  The mansion's big, and we don't know for sure which room the Viscount is in."

[Jasmin]: "Gaheris is a favorite patron of yours, and so is Kricket. Lovely," she says. "I don't know how to pick locks though. That would be Gaheris' job."

[Eskar]: "We could both be looking, but one in sight and one in secret if you know what I am saying."

[Aidan]: "He did, indeed.  I have my respect for Shadowbite, but I very much doubt the Nightmaster's advice is useful to us.  I think he has his own agenda, especially if the Rat King and Sonak are so easily employed by him."  Aidan looks back towards the Temple .  "I had hoped the others would follow us, as well, so this could be brought up before them."

[Siara]: Siara tilts her head slightly.  "Perhaps you would like to assist me with Kricket, whilst Gaheris runs our errand."

[Daufer]: "Voice your suspicions later. For now, we have work," Daufer says, continuing to walk.

[Jasmin]: "I'm sure you can handle Kricket on your own. I can work with Gaheris on this if he is willing to do it," she says evenly.

[Siara]: Siara smiles gently.  "No argument there."

[Aidan]: "Then when is a better time to voice my suspicions?  When everyone is prepared and about to enter the Viscount's mansion?  It would seem like now is a much better time for that."

[Jasmin]: "Besides, if Kricket sees me he will know something is going on."

[Eskar]: "We should be capturing a cook or someone and ask them where the Viscount is, while we are all a big group."

[JadedDM]: Gaheris:  "Jasmin has a point.  The Tainted Hands don't know you have joined us yet, Siara.  You should probably see him alone."

[Siara]: Siara nods to Gaheris.  "Alright."

[Daufer]: "I fear they mean to see this through," Daufer says. "Besides, the dwarf is held in thrall by the shadow tricksters. And I suppose," Daufer says, grudgingly, "as long as he is a Shadow Bat, we must help him see this through as well."

[JadedDM]: Gaheris:  "If nothing else, maybe you can get some information from him.  He's been in the mansion before, after all.  And he knows the Viscount personally."

[Jasmin]: "This is probably something that should be done now rather than later," she says to Siara.

[Eskar]: "We should be preparing for each defense. What would we be doing if this magic creation comes to fight us? Not to just hit it, we must know more about it."

[Aidan]: "I would think it would be much more helpful to Eskar if all avoided marching to certain death over a poorly thought out plan."

[JadedDM]: The pair of casters reaches the library a few moments later, entering the quiet and often empty, structure.  Loreleii is putting some books back on their shelves, but for once, notices them approach.  She waves at the two.

[Daufer]: "Yes. I would prefer weeks of preparation for something like this," Daufer says.

[Siara]: "I understand."  To both Jasmin and Gaheris.  "I shall return to the Blue Lantern and send out a request for Kricket's company.  He will be pleased to know that I have cleared my schedule for him."

[Daufer]: Daufer greets the librarian back. "Miss Rouge."

[JadedDM]: Rat King:  "I don't know much about golems, but I hear they're pretty strong.  I heard a tale of a thief who tried to sneak into the Viscount's mansion a few years back.  I guess he was trying to prove himself or something.  Rumor is the golem found him and snapped his windpipe with one crushing hand."

[JadedDM]: Loreleii:  "What business brings you two here?" she asks, putting the final book back on the shelf.

[Jasmin]: Jasmin seems to mutter something under her breath, but she gives Siara a small nod.

[Eskar]: "We must find out more about it. You don't know anything about this golem?"

[Aidan]: Aidan nods to Loreleii, looking as if he has far too many questions to ask her, but settles on: "I need to find some information on golems.  And that book I returned not long ago on Voxis' history might be helpful, also."

[JadedDM]: Sonak:  "It was created by a wizard, so we were hoping your mage knew something."

[JadedDM]: Loreleii:  "Golems?  What kind?" she asks, mildly surprised.

[Eskar]: Eskar scratches his beard. "Maybe he does. About the Tainted Hands, I am thinking maybe we can be convincing the little one to not fight. He is strange."

[Siara]: Siara turns to leave.  "I'll let you know what I find out."  A nod to each of them.  "Gaheris."  She hesitates with Jasmin's name.  "I do not believe I know you name, love."

[Daufer]: Daufer lets Aidan do the talking about wizardly subjects.

[Jasmin]: "Jasmin Labree."

[Siara]: "Jasmin."  She smiles before taking her leave.

[JadedDM]: Siara departs from the dark temple, her eyes needing a few moments to recover once exposed to the bright sun once again.

[Eskar]: Eskar turns to Jasmin. "Can you be convincing the little Tainted Hand to not fight you think?"

[Jasmin]: Jasmin clenches her fists again before turning to look at Eskar. "Liam? He...," she sighs. "I don't know. He did promise to try and protect me from the Bloody Maw. I might be able to work with that."

[Aidan]: "I'm...not quite sure.  I heard mention of a particularly powerful one that was rather invulnerable to most attacks, and would serve the commands of whomever it was created for.  Although I suppose that would not be a unique quality of most golems?"

[Eskar]: Eskar nods. "That is good."

[JadedDM]: Loreleii nods.  "The strength of a golem depends on what it is made of, but even the weakest of them is quite strong.  I don't know much myself, but my grandfather was something of an expert with them."

[Daufer]: "What do you know of your grandfather's research in golems, Miss Rouge?" Daufer says.

[Jasmin]: "Though, I think that would have to be something done while we are inside the mansion."

[JadedDM]: Loreleii:  "He enjoyed making them, although it was a very time-consuming process.  He had one that used to protect the library, in fact, but he gave it to the Viscount instead."

[Daufer]: "What sort was it?"

[Eskar]: Eskar nods. "I am thinking so too, Jasmin." He turns his attention to the goblins. "Are you having access to good poison and acid?"

[JadedDM]: Loreleii:  "It was a flesh golem, the weakest of the golem types."

[Aidan]: "I didn't know Raizhen studied golems.  What exactly is a flesh golem?"

[Jasmin]: Jasmin looks down at the table again. "Do we head to the inn now?" Jasmin asks Gaheris.

[JadedDM]: Loreleii:  "It's a mix and match of organic parts that is then reanimated using lightning.  It's....well, a little scary, actually.  I remember as a child, I was terrified of it."

[Aidan]: "But you say it is the weakest of golem types?  That sounds rather intimidating."

[JadedDM]: Gaheris:  "Give her a few minutes, first.  We have to make sure Kricket is not still there."

[JadedDM]: Loreleii:  "Yes.  I know he worked on more powerful types, but I'm not sure whatever became of them.  In any case, it's quite a force to be reckoned with.  It is completely immune to normal weaponry and most spells."

[Jasmin]: "So...how long have you been seeing her?" Jasmin asks, trying to hide any hint of emotion in her voice.

[Aidan]: "How would one deal with a golem like that?"

[Daufer]: "You actually know quite a lot, it seems," Daufer says.

[JadedDM]: Rat King:  "Of course, we do.  We're experts on the matters," he says to the dwarf.

[Eskar]: "To share?"

[JadedDM]: Loreleii picks a book off the shelf.  "Here's that history book.  Hold on, I have one of grandfather's old books upstairs on golems.  I'll go get it."  She heads to the stacks.

[JadedDM]: Sonak:  "Why, you plan on using it against us?"

[JadedDM]: Gaheris ignores her question, instead listening to the dwarf and goblins.

[Aidan]: Aidan flips through the history book, looking for any mention of the Viscount's mansion.

[Eskar]: The duergar looks flatly at Sonak. "I will not hurt either of you for as long as you don't turn on me. Anything to share?"

[JadedDM]: Aidan finds a few references to the mansion, mostly how various Viscounts have added new rooms or expanded it in someway.  It tells of nothing specific, however.

[Daufer]: "Mage," Daufer says. "I think I might know someone who might be able to help us with the mansion."

[Jasmin]: Jasmin frowns as she pushes herself out of her chair.

[Aidan]: Aidan looks up the most recent additions to the mansion, and checks for any information on the sewers, and how they might connect to the mansion.  "Hm?"  Aidan looks up for a moment, then checks to make sure Loreleii has not yet returned.  "Who?"

[JadedDM]: Rat King:  "We'll have to go and restock our supplies first," he says.

[Daufer]: "We'll go after our business here is concluded."

[Aidan]: "Very well."

[JadedDM]: The book mentions that the most recent Viscount planted a few trees in the courtyard and added a new balcony, but that's all.  There is no mention of the sewers.

[JadedDM]: Loreleii returns with an old, dusty book and sets it on her desk.  She opens it and begins to page through it.  "Here we go...flesh golems..."

[Eskar]: "I have things to be buying as well. Bring some poison for at least my blade, if you are serious about this. A flask of strong acid too I am thinking." Eskar looks at Jasmin. "Will you come with yes?"

[Aidan]: Aidan closes the history book and sets it down as he peruses the book Loreleii has brought.

[Jasmin]: "I'm going to search Kricket's room to see if we can get more information on the mansion," Jasmin says as she moves to lean up against a wall. "I think I have everything I need for this."

[Eskar]: Eskar nods and heads out of the temple.

[JadedDM]: Loreleii reads a bit.  "Flesh golems can only be hurt with weapons blessed or enchanted with magic.  Fire and ice slow them down, but do not hurt them.  As it is powered by electricity, lightning makes it stronger.  As it has no mind, illusions and charms are worthless, and most magic will have no effect at all."

[JadedDM]: Eskar departs from the temple, only leaving Jasmin, Gaheris, and the two goblins remaining.

[Eskar]: Eskar heads to the mage shop, to buy 3 flasks of ochre acid, and one of the noxious oil. He also inquires about healing potions.

[Jasmin]: Jasmin looks to the two goblins for a few moments before she turns her attention back to the floor as she really has nothing to say to them.

[Aidan]: "Even something purely magic, then, like magic missile would have no effect on it?  I would certainly hate to run into a stronger golem, if this were the weakest of them."

[JadedDM]: He spends 105 gp.  The mage, Malik, tells him healling potions are the domain of clerics, and beyond his ability to brew.

[JadedDM]: Loreleii nods and closes the book.  "You can see why they are so prized as bodyguards."

[JadedDM]: Gaheris:  "All right.  Let's head to the inn now.  We'll regroup later," he tells the goblins.

[Jasmin]: Jasmin pushes herself away from the wall, and walks out of the room without much of a word.

[Eskar]: Eskar inquires of any place to buy them.

[Aidan]: "And I suppose it would not be rather simple to find a way to disenchant whatever was used to animate it?"

[JadedDM]: Gaheris and Jasmin head out of the dark temple, and back into the bright city.

[JadedDM]: As far as Malik knows, the only place to buy them was the old Temple of D'lokka before it burned down.  He hears the Temple of Shadowbite makes a few now and again, but that's it.

[JadedDM]: Loreleii:  "It would take magic as powerful as that which created it to destroy it.  Nothing short of a Wish, I'd imagine."

[Jasmin]: Jasmin squints her eyes as she steps into the bright light, but she continues forward towards the Inn at a fairly fasted pace. "So you going to answer my question now?"

[JadedDM]: Gaheris:  "What question?" he asks as they walk to the inn.

[Aidan]: "Yes...that sounds very intimidating, indeed."

[Eskar]: Eskar heads to the library in that case.

[Daufer]: "Have we found what we came to learn?"

[Jasmin]: Jasmin gives him an annoyed look. "How long have you been seeing her?"

[JadedDM]: Gaheris:  "Seeing who?"

[Aidan]: Aidan nods.  "I think we have.  If we need more information, we'll return, Loreleii."

[JadedDM]: Loreleii nods, brushing some hair over her shoulder.  "I'll be here then."

[Jasmin]: "....Siara."

[JadedDM]: Gaheris:  "Oh, her.  I don't know...a few months?"

[Daufer]: "Thank you," Daufer says. He walks out of the library after waving good-bye. He heads south, towards the slums.

[Aidan]: Aidan follows after Daufer, quickly. 

[JadedDM]: Daufer leads Aidan into the slums and to a small, dilapidated shack that looks no different from any other residence in this part of town.

[Daufer]: Daufer knocks loudly on the door to announce their presence.

[JadedDM]: The door is answered by an aging hobgoblin with a patch over one eye and black hair.  He has the build of a warrior, although appears to have let himself go slightly over the past few years.  "Ah," says Garek.  "You have returned."

[Jasmin]: What sounds like a 'hmph' escapes her lips as she reaches the Inn . She opens the door and steps inside, looking rather tense.

[Daufer]: Daufer bows to the hobgoblin. "Yes, Master Garek. May we come inside?"

[JadedDM]: Kricket:  "I could say the same about you.  Have you met with the Shadow Bats yet?"

[JadedDM]: Gaheris and Jasmin step inside.  Gaheris nods to the barkeeper before casually heading to the staircase.

[Aidan]: Aidan, taking his cue from Daufer, bows to Garek, though he remains silent.

[Jasmin]: Jasmin follows after Gaheris quietly.

[JadedDM]: Garek steps aside to let the two enter his humble abode.  The place is sparse of broken down furniture and is fairly messy.

[JadedDM]: Once upstairs, Gaheris looks around.  "Which room?"

[Jasmin]: Jasmin glances around for a few moments before pointing to Kricket's room. "That one," she mutters.

[Daufer]: Once inside, Daufer sits down, giving Aidan a brief glance before looking back at the warrior. "Master Garek, I heard that you once trained a warrior named Dejo."

[JadedDM]: Gaheris waits as a servant passes by.  Then when the coast is clear, he begins examining the lock on the door.

[Jasmin]: Jasmin stands nearby, pretty much keep an eye out for anyone that might be coming their way.

[Aidan]: Aidan calmly keeps his hands clasped in front of him and stands near Daufer.

[JadedDM]: Garek:  "Yes.  She was my last student before Garn."

[JadedDM]: Eskar heads to the library.

[JadedDM]: Gaheris swears.  "Damn it...I can't pick it.  The bastard knows how to get a good lock."

[Daufer]: "What's she like?"

[Eskar]: Eskar enters the library.

[Jasmin]: "It is possible Liam might have something," Jasmin offers.

[JadedDM]: Garek:  "She is an honorable woman, and an excellent warrior, but..."  He pauses.  "Would either of you care for a drink?  I have some hellwine here," he says, helping himself to a glass.

[JadedDM]: The library, as usual, is devoid of people, save for Loreleii.  She is climbing down from the stacks as he arrives at her desk.  "Oh, Eskar...you just missed Daufer and Aidan."

[JadedDM]: Gaheris glances around.  "What if he's in there, though?"

[Aidan]: Aidan shakes his head, politely refusing the drink.

[Jasmin]: "Well, he isn't going to take too kindly to seeing you. I could possibly lead him away if he is there."

[Daufer]: Daufer shakes his head. "None today, I'm afraid. She is honorable, you said? Does she follow D'lokka?"

[JadedDM]: Garek nods.  "She does.  She can be a bit foolhardy, at times.  But otherwise, she is a good, strong woman."  He drinks some of the hellwine and then takes a seat.

[Eskar]: Eskar looks up at Loreleii. "Did they say where they were to be heading?"

[Daufer]: "I hear she has sworn an oath of fealty to the Viscount?"

[JadedDM]: Gaheris:  "All right.  Go ahead.  I'll wait in the hall."

[JadedDM]: Garek:  "This is true.  She is fanatically loyal to her master, whoever that master may be.  In this case, yes, it is the Viscount."

[JadedDM]: Loreleii:  "No, I'm afraid they didn't.  They asked about golems, and Aidan borrowed a book on history.  That's all."

[Jasmin]: Jasmin walks to Liam's room, and gently knocks upon his door.

[JadedDM]: The door opens, and Liam is there.  "Oh, Jasmin.  I was not expecting you today."

[Eskar]: Eskar shrugs. "They are being up to something." He leaves.  The duergar tries the Wolfblaze Inn for anyone.

[Daufer]: "How close are you still with Dejo? I'd like to meet her."

[Jasmin]: "I wasn't expecting to come see you today, but something has come up," she says sadly. "Would you mind taking a walk with me?"

[JadedDM]: Garek:  "I have not seen her in about five years.  Why do you wish to meet her?"

[JadedDM]: Liam:  "I'm not sure...is something wrong?"

[Jasmin]: "I just need someone to talk to." Jasmin looks up to him with wide and almost pleading eyes. "Please?"

[JadedDM]: Liam:  "Very well."  He closes and locks the door behind him.

[Daufer]: Daufer considers his words carefully for a moment. "I have friends who have business at the mansion. It would be easier for them if she were not there to lead her guards. And I was hoping I could talk to her, reason with her, convince her to forsake a master who wishes this city harm."

[Eskar]: Seeing no one immediately in the inn, Eskar tries instead the temple of Shadowbite .

[Jasmin]: Jasmin smiles faintly before she wraps her arm around his, and leads him down to the main room. "Thank you. I...I didn't know who else to go to. Plus, I didn't even know if you were around as no one has seen any of the Tainted Hands around."

[JadedDM]: Garek sets down his glass.  "Wishes the city harm?  What exactly are you saying, Daufer?  This sounds like treason."

[JadedDM]: Liam and Jasmin head downstairs to the common area.  "What is it that is bothering you then?"

[Daufer]: "Master Garek, I know what treason is. But trust me. Dejo's master, or his masters plan much worse for this city."

[Jasmin]: "I probably shouldn't bring it up to you, but I suddenly feel very...insecure."

[Eskar]: Eskar finds Ryak and begins a dialogue. "Are you having healing potions?"

[JadedDM]: Garek:  "What plans are these?"

[JadedDM]: Liam:  "Insecure?  In what?"

[Daufer]: Daufer looks at the mage, waiting for him to say something.

[JadedDM]: Gaheris slips over to Liam's door and begins to work on the lock.  Cursing his luck, it seems this lock is too much for him, as well.

[Jasmin]: "Myself."

[JadedDM]: Ryak:  "Hmm, I think there may be a couple left in the storeroom.  Why do you ask?"

[JadedDM]: Liam:  "What do you have to be insecure about?"

[Jasmin]: "Everything apparently. I get this feeling that I'm just not needed anymore."

[Aidan]: Aidan coughs loudly.  "Master Garek, if I might interrupt, I believe Daufer might have confused the matter.  We have some associates who believe the Viscount may be in danger from the Vermin Plague.  These associates would like to be able to assist the Viscount, but fear their intentions might be misunderstood with so many of the Viscount's guards being very protective.  Perhaps if we could speak with Dejo, we might be able to work out some sort of agreement?"

[JadedDM]: Liam nods.  "The Shadow Bats are taking you for granted again, aren't they?"

[JadedDM]: Garek:  "I see....Daufer, is this what you meant?"

[Jasmin]: Jasmin nods slightly, looking down at her feet. "Actually, it is just more Gaheris."

[Aidan]: Aidan looks to Daufer.

[JadedDM]: Liam nods.  "You could always reconsider my father's offer."

[Eskar]: "They might be coming in handy."

[Jasmin]: "Your father would only do the same thing to me." Jasmin sighs softly. "I just don't know what to do. I hate feeling like this."

[JadedDM]: Ryak:  "You got the gold for them?"

[JadedDM]: Liam:  "Do you really think he would?  He seems to sincerely adore you."

[Eskar]: Eskar growls a little at the demand. "What is the price?"

[Jasmin]: "Many seem to adore me, but then someone else will show up that is more than what I am. I...I don't really have a lot to offer."

[JadedDM]: Ryak:  "Hmm...one hundred gold a piece," he says with a grin.

[Daufer]: "There is truth there," Daufer says slowly.

[JadedDM]: As they speak, Gaheris comes back downstairs.  Catching Jasmin's eye, he shakes his head, and then proceeds to leave the inn discretely.

[Eskar]: Eskar's eye twitches. "They... How potent?"

[JadedDM]: Garek:  "I see.  Well, I suppose I can arrange a meeting.  When do you need to meet her?"

[JadedDM]: Liam:  "Nobody could possibly replace you," he assures her.

[JadedDM]: Ryak:  "I assure you, they're good for what ails you."

[Daufer]: "As soon as possible. Tomorrow, I suppose."

[Jasmin]: "Doesn't mean they won't try," she says as she starts leading Liam back up the stairs.

[Eskar]: "How many lie in the storeroom?"

[JadedDM]: Garek nods.  "Very well.  I will send her a message."

[JadedDM]: Liam:  "Were you to join us...I promise I would never take you for granted."

[Daufer]: "Thank you," Daufer says, standing up.

[Aidan]: Aidan bows to Garek.  "Thank you for your assistance.  Hopefully this will all work out for the best, and the Vermin Plague's interference will be put down for good."

[JadedDM]: Garek nods.  "I will contact you once I have heard back from her."

[Jasmin]: Jasmin smiles up to Liam. "That brings me a little comfort, Liam. Thank you," she says before glancing to Kricket's door. "Your father wouldn't happen to be around would he?"

[JadedDM]: Liam:  "I think I saw him head out earlier.  I'm not sure to where, though."

[Jasmin]: "Oh," she says, sounding disappointed. "I was hoping to meet with him."

[Daufer]: Daufer bows to the hobgoblin, and then leaves the shack.

[Aidan]: Aidan follows Daufer outside. 

[JadedDM]: Liam:  "He will probably return tonight."

[JadedDM]: Daufer and Aidan exit and are soon back on the streets.

[Daufer]: "Why did you lie to him, mage?" Daufer says.

[Jasmin]: "Well, I could sit outside his door until his return, but that would be a little uncomfortable."

[JadedDM]: Liam:  "Well, you...you could stay with me until he returns."

[Aidan]: "We had no proof of any ill intentions on behalf of the Viscount," Aidan says quietly, "and have better reason to believe it of the Rat King, so I wouldn't quite see that as a lie.  And besides, Garek is obviously loyal to the Viscount and would not be assisting us if we said anything treasonous."

[Jasmin]: Jasmin looks to Liam curiously. "I thought you were still mad with me though."

[Daufer]: "No, you're mistaken," Daufer says. "I'd trust him with my life."

[JadedDM]: Liam:  "I suppose I am.  But I am not heartless, to let you sit out here alone in the hall."

[Jasmin]: Jasmin glances down the hall for a few moments, as if trying to decide. "Okay. I am not sure what we will do though."

[Aidan]: "I'm sure he's a very trustworthy person.  But, considering his loyalty to the Viscount is rather obvious, considering he has given him this 'line of defense'.  The Nightmaster has placed us at odds with Garek, as well as the Viscount, with this plot."

[JadedDM]: Liam:  "Whatever you like," he says, unlocking his door.

[JadedDM]: Ryak:  "At least two, I believe."

[Jasmin]: "Where have the three of you been lately anyway?" Jasmin asks curiously as he opens the door.

[JadedDM]: Liam:  "We have been working on plans.  For a new job we were offered."  He steps inside.

[Daufer]: Daufer stares intensely at the mage. After a long pause, he says, "Very well. Caution is a virtue. But I really do plan on only speaking to the captain. I do not plan on setting an ambush."

[Jasmin]: "New job?" Jasmin steps inside after him. "Who offered you a job, if I may ask?"

[Aidan]: "I had no intention of setting an ambush.  In fact, I would have preferred luring her out to meet with us while the others moved past her post inside the mansion.  There is no need for her to die."

[JadedDM]: Liam closes the door behind her.  "I cannot say.  Father made us swear to tell nobody."

[Daufer]: Daufer takes a deep breath. "Very well. But, when we meet with her, we do things my way."

[Eskar]: Eskar trudges out and heads home for the gold, returning to buy the potions. He'll leave his silk rope and potion of fire resistance at home. After buying the potions the duergar will return to the inn.

[Daufer]: "In the meantime, we should look into the shadow trickster's claims," Daufer says. "We can't trust them."

[JadedDM]: Eskar returns to the inn, finding Gaheris leaning against the wall just outside the entrance.

[Jasmin]: "Is it really that big of a deal?"

[Eskar]: Eskar stands in front of Gaheris. "Where is everyone?"

[JadedDM]: Liam nods.  "It's perhaps our most important job yet," he says, taking a seat on his bed.

[Aidan]: "So long as she does not decide to kill us, of course," Aidan nods to him, and looks around them before continuing.  "I don't think we can either.  Either the entire plot will usher in something catastrophic, or the Rat King and Sonak will kill us once we've done their dirty work."

[JadedDM]: Gaheris:  "Jasmin's inside, distracting Liam.  But she should be back by now.  I don't know where the others went."

[Daufer]: "How much of what the trickster said is true, do you think? Are the nobility really thralls to those cultists? He seems awfully keen to hurry us into this task. If he wanted it done right, he'd have allowed us more time."

[Jasmin]: Jasmin places her hands behind her back as she walks around his room slowly. "I'm going to assume it has something to do with the nobles. They are always hiring you for something."

[Eskar]: "We must gather again."

[JadedDM]: Liam:  "We are the best in town."

[JadedDM]: Gaheris:  "I guess we are to meet back at the temple then."

[Aidan]: "I do not think all of the nobility are allied with the cultists.  It's true some of them are, as Lady Monet was part of them, but I do not believe that they are all so docile."

[Jasmin]: Jasmin runs her fingers along his dresser absently. "What would you do if we were to face each other in a fight? Would you fight me?"

[Eskar]: "I am afraid of what I do not see. So many ways things might be lies."

[JadedDM]: Liam:  "I...not to kill.  But I would be bound to protect my family."

[Daufer]: Daufer shakes his head. "The deeper we get into this, the more I don't like about it."

[JadedDM]: Gaheris:  "This is the way of Shadowbite.  Seeing in the darkness is no easy task, but I think we can trust the Nightmaster.  He has no reason to lie to us."

[Jasmin]: "Would the rest of your family fight me?" Jasmin glances to him curiously. "You said your father seems to adore me."

[Aidan]: "Perhaps there are more solutions that have yet to be revealed to us.  Maybe you should pray to D'lokka and see if any insight can be offered regarding this matter.  And we could speak with Meschior, as well."

[JadedDM]: Liam:  "I believe he would try to disable you, as would I.  But we would not kill you, not if we could help it."

[Eskar]: "Other than that it is his way. A liar lies, no matter from need. Still, there is much truth."

[JadedDM]: Gaheris:  "You're the one who got us into this in the first place.  I will serve my god's best interests, though, whatever they may be."

[Daufer]: Daufer nods. "I will meditate on it tonight. Let's go speak with the Priest Chaleur now."

[Aidan]: Aidan agrees, leading the way to the temple of Renos .

[Eskar]: "It is bigger than just me. Things would be coming together anyway." Eskar looks about.

[Jasmin]: "I don't think I could hurt any of you," she says, moving to sit down next to Liam.

[JadedDM]: Daufer and Aidan head to the temple of Renos , the loud sounds of the smelter beneath it echoing all around them.  Inside, they find Meschior tending to the burning braziers within the main worship area.

[JadedDM]: Liam:  "If the gods favor us, perhaps we never will need to fight.  But then, if you joined us, that would be a certainty."

[Jasmin]: "You truly wish for me to join you. After what I did, wouldn't seeing me all the time hurt?"

[JadedDM]: Liam:  "With time, I think my heart would heal."

[Daufer]: Inside, Daufer hails the fire priest.

[JadedDM]: Meschior:  "Ah, Sir Daufer," he says, ignoring the mage.  "Welcome to my humble temple."

[JadedDM]: Gaheris:  "Hmm...I don't think she's coming out," he says mostly to himself.

[Daufer]: "Yes, it is good to see you as well," Daufer says. "We've come to speak with you about a grave matter."

[Aidan]: Aidan scowls at the priest.  "The Nightmaster has called in the favor for Eskar's resurrection, Meschior."

[JadedDM]: Meschior frowns at this news.  "I see...I cannot imagine what he would want in return for such a feat."

[Jasmin]: "Now that I think about it. I might have made the wrong choice." Jasmin places a strand of her hair back behind her ear. "Who better to protect me from the Bloody Maw than the ones that have fought them before?" With a sigh, Jasmin falls backwards so she is lying down.

[Eskar]: "That may be good." Eskar coughs. "You are prepared?"

[Daufer]: "That trickster claims that there is a war brewing among the gods," Daufer says. "Do you have any insight into these matters?"

[JadedDM]: Liam glances down at her, lying there, and sets his hand over her own.  "You really would be better off with us than them."

[JadedDM]: Gaheris:  "Yes...as prepared as I can be, I suppose."

[JadedDM]: Meschior pauses in thought.  "Renos has seemed a bit distant to me as of late.  As if he had more important concerns.  I hadn't thought much of it, though."

[Daufer]: "I see," Daufer says.

[Eskar]: "If you ever needing to know... I have two healing potions in my pack. I return to the temple." Eskar goes off to wait at the temple of Shadowbite .

[Jasmin]: "I would probably be better off going back to my dancing. I wouldn't have to deal with such choices," Jasmin says, though she doesn't really seem to mean it.

[JadedDM]: Grunting, Gaheris decides to go with him.  Back in the meeting hall, the two goblins have all ready returned, but nobody else.

[JadedDM]: Liam:  "You are a talented warrior.  You have a great gift, and it would be a shame to rob the world of it.  After all, you slew the fire lizard of Kallow Wadi."

[Eskar]: Eskar faces the Rat King. "Well?"

[JadedDM]: Rat King:  "We have done what we needed to do.  And you two?"

[Jasmin]: "I had some help in that, Liam." Jasmin looks to him as she wraps her fingers around his hand. "And there is still something I must do with the Shadow Bats before I even consider changing sides. We got ourselves in this mess with the Bloody Maw, so maybe we should be the ones to get ourselves out."

[Aidan]: "Well, the Nightmaster said it was something regarding the three gods opposing the Vile One.  His favor in particular was for us to work for Shadowbite, supposedly, and strike immediately against the Bloody Maw.  We need to know if we should trust him."

[Eskar]: "If I die, it is not being from lack of prepared." The duergar stares into his nemesis's eyes. "And of poison and acid?"

[JadedDM]: Liam:  "And you could as easily accomplish this as a Tainted Hand.  Perhaps even more so."

[JadedDM]: Meschior:  "The Nightmaster, as a servant to Shadowbite, is not one to be trusted.  But what else can you do?  If he could restore Eskar's life, he could easily remove it again, as well."

[JadedDM]: The Rat King sneers.  "We have acquired some, yes."

[Eskar]: "And let me to guess that you will not share."

[Jasmin]: "Could I?" Jasmin asks curiously. "I suspect that the nobles are apart of the Bloody Maw. For all I know, if I joined the Tainted Hands I could become their puppet. You three are close to the nobles after all."

[Aidan]: "I'm sure Eskar's life, along with ours and Jasmin's and Gaheris' would be taken away if we simply moved forward with his plan.  We need options, Meschior."

[JadedDM]: Rat King:  "No.  The Nightmaster may trust you, but I do not.  Perhaps if the situation calls for it, but not now."

[JadedDM]: Liam:  "I give you my word, Jasmin.  We are puppets to no one.  The Tainted Hands serve only themselves."

[Eskar]: Eskar scowls. "Your business of revenge is bad business. What do you gain? You are to lose much."

[JadedDM]: Meschior shakes his head.  "I am uncertain what it is you are asking of me."

[Jasmin]: Jasmin lifts up a bit. "How can you be so sure of that, Liam?"

[JadedDM]: Liam:  "I simply know it, in my heart."  He reaches over and caresses her cheek.  "Besides, as you said, it was the Tainted Hands who originally defeated the Maw."

[Aidan]: "I don't know myself.  I had hoped you would be able to provide something of Renos' perspective on this 'war.'"

[JadedDM]: Meschior:  "I shall commune with Renos and see if I can learn anything then."

[Jasmin]: "Maybe I am the puppet then," Jasmin says, looking to be somewhat in thought.

[Daufer]: "And I as well, with the Lady. Speaking for myself, this is the first I've heard of it."

[JadedDM]: Liam:  He takes her chin and turns her head to face him.  "Then cut your strings and join us."

[JadedDM]: Meschior:  "In recent times, both Renos and D'lokka have been weakened in this city.  Shadowbite has the strongest influence, so it's possible that the Nightmaster knows something we do not.  But he may be lying, as well.  Hopefully we can learn something from our own deities."

[Jasmin]: "I can't. Not until I know for sure."

[JadedDM]: Liam removes his hand.  "I see."

[Aidan]: Aidan sighs and rifles through his backpack, retrieving a deck of tarot cards.  "I suppose I will consult whatever I can, as well, then."

[Daufer]: "Can you meet us tomorrow, Priest Chaleur? With the rest of the Shadow Bats?"

[JadedDM]: Meschior nods.  "Very well.  Where shall we meet?"

[Daufer]: "Let's meet here," Daufer says. "It's loud enough that eavesdroppers may very well miss what we're saying."

[JadedDM]: Meschior nods.  "Tomorrow then."

[Eskar]: "Is there no reason with you?"

[JadedDM]: Rat King:  "You are quick to speak of reason when you refused to deal with me before.  You let your blade do the negotiating instead.  That's why I have this scar."

[Jasmin]: "Liam, I wish I could make you understand. It is a hard choice for me to make. I would love to join the Tainted Hands, and to be...loved. I can't right now though, not until I know everything."

[Daufer]: Daufer nods and waves the fire priest good-bye.

[JadedDM]: (All right, it's time.  I have less than 40 minutes to get ready for work, so we'll end it here.)

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