Fantasy World Creations

     It is a normal day in the bustling city of Korvosa.  The sun shines and the wind blows in off the sea as people go about their daily business.  Among those people are five whose fates have become intertwined by the wrongdoing of the criminal Gaedren Lamm.  However, they have yet to collide among the tens of thousands of korvosans and as such, they go about their mornings as they always have.

[info]Post your character's morning activities[/info]

Shenzu goes to the church of Abadar to do his morning prayer, in which is to pray for and wish for wonderful afterlife for his wife Zeldana. After praying Shenzu gets ready to teach his daily class.

     As you open your eyes from your prayer you see placed upon the stone floor of the temple before you a harrow card. 
(http://i.imgur.com/VyLr66q.jpg) 
Upon the back of the card you find a message written:  "I know hat Gaedren has done to you.  He has wronged me as well.  I know where he dwells, yet cannot strike at him.  Come to my home at 3 Lancet Street at sunset.  Others like you will be there.  Gaedren must face his fate, and justice must be done."

https://www.youtube.com/v/PL578B07D8A09AFBDC&autoplay=1&repeat=1

Aeraloth woke late mid morning as the smell of fresh bread and sunbeams coxed him from his sleep. He lay interlaced in the ams of a women as was the usual and yet as he glanced at her still sleeping form next to his he couldn't remember her name. He would leave first as was customary for this sort of thing better to leave her with her honor. From what he could remember she had passed out from wine before they had gotten the chance to get to far. He slowly extricated himself from the nest of sheets and limbs to stand naked allowing his bronze skin soak in what light made its way through the curtains.

He quietly stretched the kinks out of his back from his awkward sleeping arrangement before beginning to scavenge for his lost attire. He dressed quickly in his loose performance vestiges a cotton vest that was meant to show case his body more then protect it and a pair of brown trousers. He would have to see if he could find a place to wash up later but for now he would have to settle with just running his hands through his cross cropped  black hair and to call it a day. As his bed mate began to stir he was already out the door his mother's instrument in hand pushing down the stairways of a tavern that h was being paid to perform at the night before with his group.

They six of them had pitched in to get a somewhat okay sized space to sleep above a blacksmith forge but with that many people and that much heat Aeraloth preferred to just take part of his payment for gigs in rooms for the night when he could. They had made a decent enough pot last night so he bought himself a roll from the inn keep which he stashed in his pack before heading to the usual spot to make a bit extra coin performing with the other street acts. He normally managed to get a handful of copper from the wives and workers doing their normal morning routine. He normally just let his music do the talking when he was alone like this it was more to keep himself sharp for their scheduled gigs then the actual pay off. All told it was seeming to be just another day for the dashing half-elf

Leaving his case open by his side he quickly went about his work.
[info]perform check
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+5 : 20 + 5, total 25[/blockquote][/info]

music for post i just messed up and don't want to edit
[spoiler]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1L3Ah9V-SVE&index=5&list=PL578B07D8A09AFBDC[/spoiler]

[spoiler=Click for Music]
http://youtube.com/v/9yc7tDZcCTU&autoplay=1
[/spoiler]

The morning light filtered through the shutters of the Quail's Wing, and a Varisian girl began to stir on the common-room floor. A couple of scarves wrapped around her neck, and her outfit was rather simple plainly colored, functional and full of pockets for various trinkets. An eyepatch and violet bangs covered one of her eyes - The work of Gaedren Lamm. She rubbed her uncovered eye, sitting up and looking around the room. Most of the people seemed to have already went about their business, she decided it was her turn to do the same. She stepped out into the street, within moments a gruff voice assailed her

"Oy Eliora, bout time you woke up! I could use a hand over here!" The voice belonged to a jovial dwarf named Gorin. He ran a small stand selling a variety of smithed goods. Eliora helped him out from time to time as a barker, helping draw traffic towards his stand due to its less than ideal location.

"Mornin' to ya, Gorin, looking for someone to get some feet beatin' the pavement over this way? She cupped her hand along her forehead, blocking out some of the light while looking over Gorin's table. It really was an assortment. Weapons, pieces of armor, tools, chests, and more were laid out across it, with no real organization.

Gorin nodded with a smile. "If it wouldn't be too much trouble...

"Gorin, ya always do this when you're askin' for a favor. Tryin' to make it sound like it's gonna be a ton of trouble, but it's somethin' simple like callin' some folks over to look at this stand."

"Ah, you got me again, Eliora. Just need to get some people coming through here. If I make some sales, I'll give you a cut too." Gorin grinned ear to ear as  Eliora nodded back his way and went down the alleyway towards the street proper.

Eliora called out to all walks of life as people swarmed through the streets going about their business. She'd do simple slight of hand tricks for children and call out to adults, helping Gorin peddle his wares. Often times she would try to target parents and their children, drawing the kids in with her so called magic, taking up as much time as possible in hopes that the adults would get curious about her friend's shop. As the sun reached its peak and bells tolled to signal it was now noon, she was in the middle of one such show.

Aeraloth
     The morning goes well and a decent crowd of onlookers gathers around to watch your performance, a few of them kind enough to place coin in your collection bowl.  Once midday has rolled around the crowd has dispersed though and no one is left but a vagrant passing their day and trying to leech a few coins from your more generous patrons.  As you glance down at your collection bowl along with 15 silver coins you earned throughout the morning you find a harrow card.
(http://i.imgur.com/VFsI8jK.jpg)
     Upon the back of the card you find a message written: "I know what Gaedren has done to you.  He has wronged me as well.  I know where he dwells, yet cannot strike at him.  Come to my home at 3 Lancet Street at sunset.  Others like you will be there.  Gaedren must face his fate, and justice must be done."

[info]You gain 15 sp[/info]

Eliora
     After a hour or so you are able to gather a small crowd of onlookers curious to see your magic tricks at work.  Children giggle and squeal at all of the classics: the coin behind the ear, the flower out of the sleeve, the dove out of an empty sack.  You see a good mark in a particularly stoic looking man, clearly the skeptic trying to figure out your tricks.  You beckon him in for a simple shell game and he agrees to put a copper under your cups to see whether he can find it again amidst the blur of your hands.  You keep an eye on him though and make sure to put the coin under one cups he wasn't tracking with his eyes.  He sit and scrutinizes the cups once they stop and begins to go for the one he kept his eye on... but then suddenly his hand changes course and goes straight for the one you moved the coin to, a sly grin on his face.  "Nice try girl."  He pulls up the cup... only to have a harrow card under the cup, his coin nowhere to be found.  He frowns for a bit before shrugging his shoulders and moving on.  You pick up the harrow card.
(http://i.imgur.com/GjAb9w7.jpg)
     Upon the back of the card you find a message written: "I know what Gaedren has done to you.  He has wronged me as well.  I know where he dwells, yet cannot strike at him.  Come to my home at 3 Lancet Street at sunset.  Others like you will be there.  Gaedren must face his fate, and justice must be done."

Triss stirred as the morning sun hit her, the few rags and boards that made up the wall of her "apartment" doing little to keep it out.  She sighed and rolled over.  It was still too early for this.  Few of her potential customers were even up this early.  Customers.
"Shit," Triss muttered, pushing herself off her bedroll.  She had used up more of her stock than she had intended to getting Garrik a few nights ago.  The bastard couldn't have just died without ruining the drugs she had used to secure his trust, or at least compliance.  She was going to have to get some new supplies.  Opening her bag she found only two gold coins.  Nothing much one could buy on two gold.  Still, she had been worse off.  Muttering further curses under her breath, she pushed aside the dilapidated remains of a door, its single remaining hinge screaming out in protest. 
"Hmm, nearest tavern, gotta be a few looking for hangover cures.  At least I know how to whip up one of those."  She set off, pulling her hood down to cover her face better and adjusting the small pouches she carried her herbs, chemicals and other components in.
[info]Attempting to sell one of my daily extracts in the form of Polypurpose Panacea, in whatever form can be sold, likely analgesic. 
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+5 : 14 + 5, total 19[/blockquote] Seeking 10g Diplomacy to negotiate price.
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+9 : 19 + 9, total 28[/blockquote] Craft Alchemy for other things, poultices, slower hangover cures, etc.
[/info]

     Unfortunately no desperate hungover patrons seem to have the coin on hand for your miracle cure.  Instead only a barkeep, sober and wily, is willing to buy your panacea at the going rate so he can gouge someone more desperate later in the day.  Fortunately, as the morning goes on you are able to sell some lesser cures  made from what materials you were able to scrounge together,  Midday rolls around and a sailor, looking to enjoy his shore-leave purchases one of your concoctions.  Reaching into one of your satchels for the vial you find your fingers brushing across something that should not be there.  After seeing the sailor off with his purchase you find in the bag a harrow card.
(http://i.imgur.com/ifznxTU.jpg)
     Upon the back of the card you find a message written: "I know what Gaedren has done to you.  He has wronged me as well.  I know where he dwells, yet cannot strike at him.  Come to my home at 3 Lancet Street at sunset.  Others like you will be there.  Gaedren must face his fate, and justice must be done."

[info]You gain 10 gp and 13 sp[/info]

"Father!" Beldan screamed as he awoke from another nightmare. "Oh it was just a nightmare. I cant wait for the day these nightmares go away." Beldan wiped the swipe from this ordeal off his forehead. He got up out of bed and glanced out the window to notice the sun beginning to rise. "Welp I guess i should get ready for the long day ahead." Beldan then takes a shower and makes some breakfast before prepping the forge to finish up his latest project a warhammer.

Beldan stokes the forge and works to get the fire up to temperature. As the forge is hot enough to work Beldan puts on his apron and dons his smithing tools and begins to work the metal into the warhammer. Clangs rain out from the forge for a time until a loud hiss roars out as the hot metal hits the squelching oil. Beldan looks the warhammer over and props it up against the wall for a bit until he has time to test the strength of the hammer. Its at this point in the day Beldan decides to take a small break before getting to work on the next item on his list for customers. While out on break Beldan stops and grabs a quick bite to eat and grab some groceries for later meals then heads back to the shop.

[spoiler]Roll for crafting on the Warhammer which costs 12g (http://forums.fantasyworldcreations.com/Themes/envision2013_smf20_rev3/images/dice_warn.gif) This dice roll has been tampered with!
Rolled 1d20+9 : 12 + 9, total 21 [/spoiler]

     Working the forge is hot and parching work and while taking a break from crafting the warhammer you reach for a jug of water to quench your thirst only to instead find a harrow card propped up against the jug.
(http://i.imgur.com/yrw8C6e.jpg)
     Upon the back of the card you find a message written: "I know what Gaedren has done to you.  He has wronged me as well.  I know where he dwells, yet cannot strike at him.  Come to my home at 3 Lancet Street at sunset.  Others like you will be there.  Gaedren must face his fate, and justice must be done."

[info]Crafting check successful but you will need to put in 2 more days (or 4 half days) of work to complete the warhammer[/info]

Eliora looked down at the card a bit perplexed before calling out to the crowd. "Alright, that's all for now kids!" She went back over to Gorin's stall, noticing that a few people had begun to gather around. A man was staring down at a particularly well crafted pot lid.

"Ser! What a good eye ya have. That's a great shield crafted by a masterful Dwarven smith. She also pointed at the pot lid while speaking.

The man turned from looking at it, a bit skeptical. "Ya sure you have even one good eye missy? This has ta be a pot lid, ain't never seen no shield that looks like a pot lid."

Ah, but you see, that is the beauty of this particular piece. It looks like a pot lid, but it is actually a shield. Ya enemies will think you are unprotected, but when in fact you will have a most durable shield. Tell me if ya ever have laid eyes on a pot lid that is this sturdy. Eliora picked up the pot lid and tossed Gorin a club. "hit it as hard as ya can, shopkeep,"

Gorin swung the club, the air whistiling as it smashed into the pot lid with a resounding thud. The sound of wood on metal rang out, yet the pot lid was left unscathed. Eliora set it back down and smiled at the customer. "Ser, this lovely shield can be all yours for the low price of 5 gold pieces."

After the exchange, Eliora informed Gorin that she'd have to be leaving early, she had an unexpected appointment that she had to keep. She scurried down the alleyways and through the side streets before coming upon 3 Lancet Street. She was early, but it wouldn't hurt to check out the area before hand and see what might be going on.

[info]Bluff check to pass the pot lid off as a light steel shield.
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+8 : 15 + 8, total 23[/blockquote]

Perception while outside of 3 Lancet Street. 
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+5 : 9 + 5, total 14[/blockquote]

     The man seemed convinced by your claim. "Well... I guess it must be some fancy dwarven shield I ain't never heard of.  What I really need though is a good solid pot lid for me wife.  Hey shopkeep, could I use that shield as a pot lid?"  Gorin looked sideways at you.  His eyebrows raised in amusement.  "Sure you could!  I can even give you the pot lid price good sir."  He trades away the pot lid for some silver before seeing you off.  "Don't be getting yourself in too much trouble now."

     Upon arriving at Lancet Street you find a quiet street, practically abandoned by Korvosan standards.  Only a handful of beggars populate the street itself while the houses seem to be mostly homes for some of the citizens with just enough wealth to split a home with another family.  The only shop to be seen is at the address you were drawn to.  3 Lancet Street, while looking like a normal house much like the others along the lane, hangs a sign indicating the services of a fortune teller.  The windows are shuttered and there is little else to see from the outside of the house.

"How the hell did this get here?" Beldan was quite surprised that someone broken in and left something instead of taking anything. Beldan read over the card after his initial surprise wore off and thought to himself. "Interesting someone has found a way to Lamm but cannot strike at them. I wonder who this person is and what they want with me? Well since sunset is a ways off still so I guess I guess I will continue to work on this warhammer until closer to sunset since this thing isnt quite right yet."

After sometime passes Beldan looks out of his window and realizes it is quite near time to head out to the address on the harrow card so he cleaned himself up. Beldan kept to the main roads through town opting to keep away from the alleys if he had a say in the matter. Upon arrival to the address listed he took a quick look around to see if anyone or thing stood out before knocking on this door.

[spoiler]To see if I see anything out of place in the area[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+3 : 9 + 3, total 12[/blockquote][/spoiler]

Beldan
     The street is quiet but nothing seems out of the ordinary.  The address you were drawn to has a sign indicating the establishment of a fortune teller.

Eliora
    A dwarf arrives at the fortune teller's shop and looks to be peering around unaware of your presence.

Hmm... Triss mumbled to herself, turning the card over and over in her hands.  Someone else who wanted Lamm dead.  Well, really that narrowed it down to just virtually everyone he had come in contact with.  The man was scum, and she had intended to root him out once she got her supplies back to a manageable level.  Details hadn't exactly crystallized yet, but the fires of revenge would see to that.  Still Lamm did have some bite left in him.  It could be a trap.  He'd probably figured out someone had killed Garrik by now.  But how would he know it had been her?  She hadn't been seen.  At least she hoped not.

"Uh, miss... excuse me, but could I perhaps get a poultice for my sist-"

"Shop's closed.  Got somewhere to be," Triss interrupted the young man standing in front of her, gathering up the herbs, bowls and other tools she had arranged on the table in front of her.  It'd be best to check it out at least.  Though she wanted to be the one to take his life, others could serve to make that a lot easier.  And Lamm had no shortage of enemies.  Still, best to go in properly prepared though.  Go back to the stash, grab the crossbow, and the bolts.  Her thoughts were interrupted when she nearly ran into the young man, who had moved to block her path.  As she took a quick step back, glaring at him, her hood fell back, exposing her face.  He gasped as the red, scarred flesh of her face was revealed.  They always did.  Unless she was carrying the drug they wanted, they all looked at her that way.  She glared, pulling her hood back up and moving to step around, but he moved to block her again.  "Please, she's quite ill, and I was told it'd lessen the fever.  I've seen you work, and I know you're good for it. Please."

He looked her right in the eyes as he asked.  Both eyes, not just the one on the right side of her face.  Determination burned in his eyes.  She regarded him again, lifting her head, knowing he could see her better as she did.  But he did not look away.  His expression was resolute, no pity or revulsion.  He had a mission too, one he wouldn't stop until he had fulfilled.  After nearly a full minute, Triss moved back to the table, and sat back down.  "Fine, tell me her symptoms properly and I'll see what I can do."  The bow would be there when she got to it. 

***

"I'll be here tomorrow if that doesn't seem to lessen it," She said, finishing packing her things.  "But like I said, sounds like shiver.  It's not going to be pretty, and she's not going to like it, but you'll have to keep her off of it."  Shiver likely meant Lamm.  She never sold the stuff.  It was a good market, but not one she could get into. 

"I will, and thank you," the man said, rising and meeting her gaze again.  "I'll bring the gold tomorrow to-" but Triss waved her hand.  "I'm doing this one because I want to.  There's something I need to do tonight, and just maybe doing a good turn could bring me some luck." And because you're one of the ones who still looked at me like a person.  Not a monster.  She thought.  "I'll pray for your success," he said as she turned and walked out the door.  Well, perhaps they'd listen to him, even if all she ever got from the gods was a silent uncaring.  It was getting late and she would need to be there soon.   

***

It was almost sunset when she reached the address from the card.  Looking around before entering the fairly empty street, she checked her crossbow wouldn't be too hard to unsling, and that the components for her bombs were still in their appropriate pouches.  Best to walk into a possible trap prepared. 

[spoiler][blockquote]Rolled 1d20+4 : 3 + 4, total 7[/blockquote] Perception looking for danger.[/spoiler]

     Nothing dangerous seems to be about Lancet street except for a strangely acting dwarf who also seems to be looking around.

After praying, Shenzu looked up and saw a card setting on the floor in front of him. He picks up the card and reads the back of the card.
[spoiler]He looks around to see if he is being observed. (Perception)(http://forums.fantasyworldcreations.com/Themes/envision2013_smf20_rev3/images/dice_warn.gif) This dice roll has been tampered with!
Rolled 1d20+8 : 20 + 8, total 28 [/spoiler]

Shenzu says under his breath "who dropped this off here?" If this will get the answers I seek, I need to cancel the class for today and head home to grab my gear.  So Shenzu post a sign for the canceled class and headed out for home. During the walk home Shenzu has a couple of questions swirling around in his head, like what did Gaedren do to this "other" people? How many people got this card? after a while Shenzu got home, he had to search for his crossbow since he hadn't need to use it in years but after awhile he gathers up all of his gear straps his quarterstaff to his back and clips the crossbow to his hip. As Shenzu heads out to 3 Lancet Street its close to sunset, as he gets close to the house Shenzu keeps an eye on his surroundings  to be ready for anything.
[spoiler]Perception(http://forums.fantasyworldcreations.com/Themes/envision2013_smf20_rev3/images/dice_warn.gif) This dice roll has been tampered with!
Rolled 1d20+8 : 4 + 8, total 12[/spoiler]

Aeraloth stood once he was done with his performance closing the case gently around his mother's lute as he fetched his earning. notice of the card along with his silver. He was curious about the card, normally when people paid him it was rarely with this kind of thing, food and coin were the most people normally shared on days like today. However, his face quickly soured as he flipped the card over and read the note on the back. "Gaedren" he spat, the sheer thought of the man who left him homeless and without his mother made him want to ripe something to shreds with his bare hands. Someone was egging him on. But if they wanted to put on a show with him dancing they would find that they would get more then they bargened for in this humble performer. He could play the role of monster quite well as the scum of this neighborhood knew too well.

As he passed by the man begging he tossed him five silver pieces from that morning's earnings as payment foward to the guards for what might be coming later that evening at this Lancet Street. Lute slung over his back his body corused slightly with energy he could feel it sparking in his mouth and across his tounge mixing with his disguest as he went to get ready and cool off until the evening. His hulking form walking with the restrained force of a ragging beast. He made sure to gather his gear and have a drink before heading to the appointed location.

Shenzu
     Nothing on the street seems out of the ordinary, with the exception of a dwarf and a hooded person apparently on alert for something.

[info]James, please pick a different color for character interactions.  Kyle has already taken blue and it's first come first serve.[/info]

Aeraloth
     You arrive at 3 Lancet Street to find the address surprisingly busy.  Several  well armed individuals wander the street.  A hooded figure, a dwarf, and a man with a quarterstaff all  of  whom seem to be searching for something.


[info]The party is gathered!  Let the customary introductions begin![/info]

Aeraloth moved up to the group and gave a small whistle as he looked over the others in what detail he could. "Seems someone is looking to hire some muscle, Unless this was all just a trap to mug some guy trying to make his way in this town." From a distance the bronze skinned half elf looks like some kind of well built bear or wolf standing on two legs as he quietly moved upon the group. His grey eyes reflecting the colors of the setting sun his hairless toned chest mostly visible for those to see. As the others could get a better look at him his chiseled features were even more apparent. Aeraloth stood a good head and wore a good fifty or more pounds then any other half elf the others will have seen. However, his face currently hardened slightly by some pain showed the obvious signs of laughter and a gentle heart.

"My name is Aeraloth Vanron, though I imagine if one of you sent me this thing you already know that." His voice was deep and forceful trying to see if he would force a move as he ran a hand through his short midnight black hair and produced the harrow card from earlier with his other hand.

As Shenzu stands at the address, then he watches a large half-elf, whom walked up and introduced himself. Then Shenzu started to introduce himself to Aeraloth Vanron "Hi Aeraloth Vanron, I am Shenzu, I don't know who sent these cards to us."  Shenzu flashes the Harrow card to Aeraloth."Well someone is looking for people to help them." Shenzu points out the dwarf and the hooded person."This is seems like it going to be interesting ha ha." Shenzu started to chuckle.

[spoiler=teehee]
acrobatics.
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+7 : 16 + 7, total 23[/blockquote]

As the two introduced themselves, Eliora watched, and listened. Nobody had seem to notice her, despite a minimal effort to hide her presence. She decided it was time to make her presence known. She clapped, turned around and proceeded to rapidly back handspring her way towards the group, ending with a vaulting backflip complete with a few rotations. Colorful cloth whirled around as she spun through the air, before sticking the landing right in the middle of the group. She procured the harrow card from a pocket along one of her scarves, presented it with a flourish and took a bow. "The name's Eliora Swifthand, pleasure to meet ya."

Triss spun as the man behind her spoke. Sloppy, Just because Garrik had been an easy kill, no reason to believe Lamm would be.  On seeing the card in his hand she relaxed slightly, removing her hand from the pouch holding her bomb components.  Still there were two of them, both fairly imposing figures.  But at least they all seemed to be here for the same reason.  Perhaps the dwarf too.  Killers would more than likely have just had at her, rather than announce their presence, more so if there were two of them.  A sharp clap directed her attention to a new figure, displaying a fair feat of acrobatic prowess.  The new one, a girl, or young woman, colorful scarf, purple hair. That was one of his too.  One like her who he had cast away.  If she had a card too, that meant that this should be safe. Too complicated for a trap.  Out here at least.  Best to still be cautious going inside. 
"Name here is Triss, and seems like I'm here for the same reason the rest of you are,"  Triss let herself relax, and fished in her satchel for the card.  "Don't think I've seen you two around before, I believe we've... met Eliora.  And the dwarf? Also with us?" 
Best to take this slow.  If the cards were to be believed, someone else had a vested interest in removing Lamm.  Either it was the dwarf who was their mysterious benefactor, another who hoped to take his vengeance on Lamm, or possibly one of Lamms men.  There were four of them now though.  That ought to put a little pause in an attacker.  Lamm couldn't have become rich enough to hire anyone too far beyond Garrik she hoped. 
She walked over to Eliora.  "You were one of his weren't you?" Triss asked in a low voice, so that only she could hear.  "Before he had you removed."  Perhaps she would remember her.  Hopefully this wasn't a mistake either.  After all, the violet haired woman might remember her from that time with less favor.  She had operated from a place of more favor with Lamm than most.  Not that that meant anything now, but that had been after this girl had left. 

Eliora hadn't been one for names in her time with Lamm, but this woman who called herself Triss seemed familiar. She took the same hushed tone. "Aye, ya could say that. Though ya could also say that I wasn't one much interested in names. Could never tell how long someone would be around. Gettin' attached to 'em was always trouble. Learned that one early. Seems like I was rather lucky with how he got rid of me. At least I assume he's the one that burned ya.

She did her best to look Triss in the eye. It wasn't the worst burns she'd seen, you see a lot when you run around the underbelly of a city; but Eliora could understand her desire to keep it out of sight. She did the same with her eye after all, and it was much less damaged. She resumed her conversation in the same hushed whisper.

"Can't say that I know too much about these other blokes that have shown up, but they don't look like they were Little Lamms. The guy has his hands in enough pots to 'ave wronged 'em somehow sure enough. Wonder what their stories are. Seem a little too carefree to 'ave seen much in the way of hardship, if ya know what i'm sayin'. And I dunno if I trust ya or not, but we both have somethin' against Lamm, so that's enough to feel safe with for now." It was always better to be upfront when you would be putting your life on the line for something. Forming an alliance against a common foe was an age old strategy, and perhaps at the end of the road, when Lamm was sleeping with the fishes out in the harbor, or maimed horribly in some way or another, Eliora would have some new companions.

Beldan decides that he better introduce himself since it seems that these others have been gathered for the same cause and steps forward. "It seems I am at the right place I cant imagine we are all here because of these? Beldan reaches into his pocket and presents his harrow card to the rest of the group and then puts it back into his pocket. "Beldan Udar is the name by the way. Seems like someone either has it out for us or whoever this person is has it out for Lamm. Shall we head inside to see what fate has in store for us?

"Well, whoever called us 'ere surely ain't gonna be looking for us in the street. With that, Eliora approached the door, twisting the handle and opening it. She procured her card from her scarf, waving it into the room. "'Ello, I've been uh.. summoned to this building, not much for hide 'n' seek though, i'm afraid." She surveyed the room, looking for any signs of a person.

[spoiler=Perception roll.]
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+5 : 15 + 5, total 20[/blockquote]
[/spoiler]

     The door opens into a cozy chamber.  The fragrance of incense wafts out from within as piles of it smoulder in bowels throughout the room.  Through the light haze of the incense a table sits in the middle of the room with 6 chairs arrayed around it.  Brocaded tapestries cover the walls and a candelabra illuminates the room with a dim light.  Next to it sits a basket, its contents covered with a blue cloth and a piece of parchment folded and resting on top.

Eliora stepped into the room, her gait cautious but she was too curious about the setting to leave it alone. She approached the table, grabbing the piece of parchment off of the basket, unfolding it and reading it.

  You find written on the parchment a message written.  "Thank you for coming.  I had to step out for a bit, but shall return shortly.  Please have a seat while you wait.  The basket contains bread and drink for your refreshment."

Beldan follows slowly and cautiously Eliora before taking a seat at the the table. As Beldan passes Eliora he notices her reading some sort of note. "Whats the note say?" Beldan asked with a bit of curiosity in his tone. Beldan then takes a seat at the table as he awaits the response.

"Just that whoever summoned us 'ad to step out a bit and will be back, there's food and drink for us to partake in, if ya so desire. 'N' I most definitely desire, feelin' a bit peckish, if ya know what I mean." Eliora handed the note over to Beldan and removed the cover from the basket, grabbing some bread and searched around for a cup to put some drink in before sitting in a chair along the side of the table with a grin on her face.  "What are ya'll waitin' for, seems to be safe in 'ere."

As Eliora and Beldan enter the house, Shenzu decides to follow but keeps an eye out for anything out of the ordinary.

[spoiler]Perception check[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+8 : 4 + 8, total 12[/blockquote][/spoiler]

As Beldan asks what is on the note, Shenzu pays attention to Eliora for the response. As Eliora reads the note aloud Shenzu settles down at the table ready for a drink. As Eliora looks for the cups, Shenzu speaks up and says "I'll help you look for the cups I need a drink too ha ha."   

Aeraloth entered in then as the group began to make themselves at home. None of them seemed to be any particular threat and the way the talked about their supposed common enemy seemed genuine enough for him at the moment to wait and see the next act of this little performance their mysterious benefactor had in store. He moved to one of the chairs flipped it around and then straddled it his mother's lute sitting comfortably between his shoulders before he took the bread from his bag and began to munch on it slowly. Even an animal new bwtter then to take food on sight alone. He continued to eay as he took in the sights of this small room. He did always enjoy a good magic show and hopefully who ever was calling on them might be as good as they led on.

     Simple wooden cups are found sitting on one of the tables along the walls.  Behind it a tapestry of angels dancing upon a snow covered mountaintop.

Triss sighed heavily.  "Don't eat that.  And especially don't drink it."
She walked through the door, glancing to check if there was a lock on it, either from the outside, much less likely, but possible or the inside.  "If I were a crime, for lack of a better term, lord," Triss continued, "Like Lamm, and I were to have lost an enforcer recently, which he has, I might look into who my enemies are.  I would then think seriously about dealing with them.  Perhaps gathering them through an anonymous note, and then killing them.  None of you seem to be bent on killing me so far, so that's a good sign.  But blades and blows aren't the only way to kill someone."  Triss stalked over, and took up the bottle.  "He has the right idea," she said, gesturing to Aeraloth.  "But I have some knowledge in the subject, so before we go testing the old fashioned way of drink and pray, I'll take a look at this.  The bread is more likely to be safe, it's harder to poison, unless it has any filling. I'd still follow his lead, but its your choice.  Finally, I'd use my own flask or vial for drinking, you never know what was left in your cup."

[spoiler]
Perception to check for locks
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+4 : 5 + 4, total 9[/blockquote]

Craft Alchemy to check for poison
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+9 : 9 + 9, total 18[/blockquote]

Craft Alchemy to see if any of the incense in the room smells like anything besides incense, ie drugs, poison etc.
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+9 : 4 + 9, total 13[/blockquote]
[/spoiler]

     You find the door to have a simple exterior lock like any other house with a keyhole on the outside and a turning bolt on the inside.  The bread and wine from the basket appear poison free, as does the incense floating throughout the room.

"Hey, someone close the door It's getting colder and I'd prefer not to sit freezing in a stranger's home for the guard to find later. If it's a trap let it come so that it can be dealt with. Otherwise we can wait at least in relative comfort." He placed his harrow card on the table and studied the tapestry for a moment before continuing. "So anyone have any idea of the meanings behind these things our host must have chose them for a reason I've been trying to think it out all morning and have come up empty." He tapped the harrow card once before looking at the others. Talking was key if he wanted to set these people at easy they seemed all to jumpy for his taste it was better just to expect the worst and relax until it was time to face it. Bad stuff happened everyday in this city and it was a fool's errand to think that they could see it all coming ahead of time.

"These seem to be safe," Triss said, placing the subjects of her examination back down.  "All the same, I'd rather not partake of the 'generosity' of mysterious strangers."  She remover her card, and examined it.  "We are in a fortune tellers house.  Perhaps just the easiest thing to get a hold of?  Or some blessing of good fortune upon us.  I don't know much about divination." 
Satisfied that nothing was likely to poison them or explode,  Triss walked back over to the door, and shut it before pulling up a chair and sitting down at the table.  "Do all our cards belong to the same set?" She asked, placing hers on the table, flipping it over to look at the back, and reaching to Aeraloths to do the same.

Eliora chucked while pouring a drink. "It's good to be cautious of course, but if someone went through the trouble of gathering five strangers, do you really think they would try to get rid of us all at once? It would seem like the type of thing to put 'em at a disadvantage when they coulda just sent a knife at one o' us in the night. I'd wager that Lamm has done something to wrong this fortune teller of ours too." She removed her card from her scarf once more and tossed it towards Triss, before taking a bite out of a chunk of bread and a drink from her cup. "I'd say it looks to be that the cards match. The same person gathered us all from the sounds of it. Now we just wait for 'em to show up. Should just be a matter o' time."

Beldan silently sat at the table observing the rest of the group that had been summoned here it seemed. Seeing Triss setting down her card on the table and starting to gather up some of the others Beldan reaches into his pocket and throws his card down on the table next to Triss's. Also during his observing Beldan notices that the food and drinks seem to be edible with no side effects at least right away. "Ay someone pass me a mug I could use a drink feelin kinda parched." A few more minutes pass as Beldan drinks from his mug the incense started to get to him. "Achoo! hey I know its cold out but can someone crack a window these incense are getting to be a little bit.

As everyone places there card on the table Shenzu pours a drink into his cup and places his card on the table too. "Well the cards have the same message on them. So I'll say they were meant to bring us together, hopeful someone will tell us why they need a group like us. Can some pass the bread over? I haven't ate since this morning. Shenzu ponders why this group is together, did Lamm murder someone close to "all" of them or is it something else.

Eliora looked at the monk with a smirk. "I'd imagine we've been gathered 'ere to administer a dose o' revenge to our old pal Lamm. Don't think we need whoever went out o' their way to get us 'ere to tell us that much. Cards say as much." She slid the bowl of bread over towards Shenzu. So far his actions hadn't made him seem like a particularly capable ally. Beldan and Aeraloth hadn't given her too much to go on and Triss seemed reliable. Perhaps not trust worthy, but it was a start.

Aeraloth took the lute from his back and began to carefully delicately tune the instrument as if it was second nature. He kept his eye to the others around him, the table, and the cards while simply listening for one golden note after another. Anything to keep his attention to the task at hand. "Anyone an artist?" He asked nodding to the painting pf the angels on the back wall. "I'd bet ten silver that kind of thing is for more then just decoration." The notes of the music helped clear his mind of his own thoughts and the sounds of the people around him. The thrumming of the strings mixing with his own heart beat as he saw the place from a new perspective. Even though he never had much in the way of proper education. His body seemed to work as if on instinct to show him the arcane nature of things
[info]
Arcana check on the cards and tapestry
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+3 : 14 + 3, total 17[/blockquote] [/info]

     "There is no power in the tapestries.  They are merely there to remind us."  An older varisian woman stands in the doorway  "To remind us of what dwells above..."  She points to the tapestry of the angels.  "What dwells below..."  She then gestured to a tapestry opposite the first which depicted a demon juggling skulls.  "And what will brings us to either destination."  She pointed finally to the back wall which depicted a skeletal figure in black robes holding a flaming sword.  "I hope you are all well.  I am Zellara, the one who called you all here.  I am glad to see you are all well and that you all answered my call."  She walks over to the table to sit in one of the open chairs.  "I am sure you all have many questions about why I called you here and what I can do to help you bring justice to Lamm.  Please, have a seat so that I may give what answers I can."  She sits with confidence and a welcoming air.  Her weathered features tell of an attractive beauty long since past, but she still wears her features with grace.  As she sits down she draws out a deck of harrow cards matching the cards which you have all received.  She absentmindedly shuffles the deck as she sits with an expectant look on her face.

[info]There is no arcane magic associated with tapestries as far as you know.[/info]

The voice coming from the doorway surprised Eliora momentarily. A fellow Varisian woman was their benefactor? Her description of the tapestries was apt, and Eliora listened intently, hanging on every syllable. She studied the woman's weathered face, she seemed to look honest enough at a first glance.

"Thank you, Zellara for your invitation. I may be a bit hasty, but what made ya choose us? Surely there's gotta be more people Lamm has troubled. O' course I'm glad to be included in bringing the man to justice. 'Tis something I've dreamed for many years."

     "I did not choose you.  The cards did."  With this Zellara nods to the cards on the table.  "I have no power of my own.  Only a gift from the spirits of my ancestors to read the cards.  So I sought their guidance in finding others who have also been wronged by Lamm and who might do together do what I alone could not.  The guidance of the cards brought me to each of you.  The fact that you have all answered the call heartens me.  The cards have never led me astray before but in such matters as these it is hard to keep faith.  There are always those who fight fate.  Especially those whom fate has brought into contact with Lamm."

Beldan was surprised to hear that this group of people were gathered merely to some cards. "I find it hard to believe that we have been brought together here by some mere cards. I feel you must have at least done some digging into our pasts yourself and judging by the group we have here for quite some time." Beldan takes a drink from is mug and continues to speak. "What I would like to know though is what did Lamm do to you for you to go out of your way to gather us up?"

Aeraloth was not so skeptical as the dwarf. His own hidden abilities told him that magic did all kind of strange things that he could not easily explain. It did what it wanted to not caring about the laws of the mortal world. "And can you elaborate onto why your cards might have chosen us. There must be a lot of people wronged by that ghoul Lamm so there must have been someone better qualified then me I'm just a simple performer." This was partially a test to see how much these fantastical cards revealed to this old women. She seemed nonthreatening enough but he was never one to judge a book by its cover. He knew of performers who liked to embody their roles. A fortuneteller like this needed the show more often then not to attract costumers if she was the genuine thing then she would be rare indeed.

     Zellara turned to Beldan and responded "You wear the symbol of your god do you not?  Faith and respect for those beyond our realm can be a potent force in the ways of fate and I would think you would be able to appreciate that while my ancestor spirits do not work by the same methods as your deity does not invalidate their ability to guide us.  As for why you all specifically were revealed to me, I do not know.  I can only hope that your reason for wanting to strike Lamm down is reason enough.  He killed my son and I can only assume that he has visited similar misfortune upon you all.  The cards did not tell me and I did not think it appropriate to pry into your lives.  Using the Harrow is a gift that cannot be abused lest the spirits decide to cease answering my call and delving into the pasts and futures of those who do not wish it can deem me unworthy of the spirits guidance.  If there were something important enough in your fates that the cards needed to tell me then they would have done so."

"What's it matter?"  Triss asked, lifting her eyes from the cards and looking around the room.  "What's it matter why the cards, or she picked us if we all want it done.  Anyone here not want Lamm dead?  I do, and I'm going to see it done.  You can all join in or not.  What matters is what else she has for us," Triss said, gesturing to Zellara.  "I'm hoping perhaps you, your cards, or anything else you know can help us out a little more.  I've been busy, but it's not easy to track people here, especially if they move a lot, and Lamm does."
Triss looked around at each of her potential allies.  The dwarf, likely a cleric, good, that would help people stay alive.  Eliora, unless she had changed significantly from when she had been with Lamm, a theif, perhaps good with a blade.  Likely less so with a bow unless that eye patch was for sure, and knowing it had probably come from Lamm, that was unlikely.  The foreign man, he looked strong, and focused.  No armor and a staff, possibly a spell caster, but he looked strong enough to be in a fight. Perhaps one of the mystics that the eastern lands were famous for.  The ... elf?  Half elf, perhaps, he was big for an elf, was hard  to read as well, again little to no armor, but more casual in his mannerisms.  Less poise than the man.  His instrument indicated the man as a bard perhaps.  Some of them had powers.
"I'll tell you why the cards chose me.  Lamm took me from whatever life I might have had.  Made me work for him, and then the bastard tried to burn me alive.  I intend to return the favor to him but to do it right."

"Lamm needs to be brought to the authorities, so justice can be served. So I am in."  Shenzu listens to everyone else's reasons for being here, Triss's reason stood out the most.""Triss is killing Lamm that important? No one deserves to die by one's hand. Shenzu hopes to sway Triss's resolve but Shenzu is mental preparing for the worst to happen. The rest of the group doesn't seem to want blood on their hand but we are all here for one reason only, to see Lamm off the streets. "If the cards can show you us, can they show you were Lamm is?"  

Eliora listened to Triss and Shenzu in turn. She found herself in partial agreement with Triss. Fire might not be her first option, but there would be a certain degree of satisfaction obtained by dealing with Lamm herself instead of letting him rot in a prison cell somewhere. The guy was so slippery for all these years that even a cell might not be enough to contain him.

"Not to overstep some boundaries or anything but ya know... The cards already say that Lamm's location is known. Perhaps it might be in ya best interest to brush up on ya common before ya get too deeply involved in tryin' to track down a man that's caused more trouble then any o' us really know. Ya can say nobody deserves to die, but can ya say the same to all o' the families that have been torn apart by this excuse of a man? The children that had the future stolen out from under their feet? The widows of the many men that turned up in some alley with a knife in their back? If ya really want to see justice brought to Lamm, ya gotta know that it ain't gonna end with him singin' a happy song. If he ain't gonna come peaceably.. which he likely wouldn't, I ain't gonna hesitate to stick 'em. He had no trouble doin' that to me."

After her speech, Eliora let out a deep breath and looked around the table at each of the assembled folks. "So. What's the story for you lot? Why do ya wanna see Lamm come to justice?"

"Ah ha ha ha ha," Triss laughed out, no humor reaching her eyes.  "You're adorable.  No one deserves to die?  Perhaps in the east you all live like they say, but here, in this town?  No.  Plenty of people deserve to die.  We have paid executioners.  Guards carry swords, or spears.  I walked here with this," Triss gestured at her crossbow, now leaning against her chair, "And no one questioned me.  People deserve to die, and everyone knows it.  And as far as I'm concerned, Lamm is at the top of that list.  We are sitting in a room with 6 people who want the man brought down.  I can tell you she got plenty of pain from Lamm," Triss gestured to Eliora.  "And last time I saw her before Lamm removed her, she had two working eyes.  He killed our hosts son.  He sold shiver to people who took it till they died.  I should know, I had to make the damn stuff for him, there is no way what he was doing was helping people.  But it wasn't ever enough.  No, he couldn't make the gold he wanted peddling those concoctions.  No, instead he takes children like us and has them steal or kill people, then steal from them.  No, Lamm deserves to die.  And that isn't going to happen unless we do something about it."
Triss had risen from her chair and began advancing towards Shenzu.  Somewhere in the back of her mind, she knew this was not the smart thing to do.  The man stood a foot taller than her, and outweighed her by probably double.  He was clearly stronger by an even greater difference.  But that was not important.  Killing the man who had done this to her, who had made her look like this, who had taken almost everything from her, that was what mattered.  And she was not going to let anyone stand in her way. 
"But what's really funny is you think bringing Lamm to the authorities will do anything.  No, he's just some two bit con man, a bit player.  There are so many more pressing matters for them.  Catching people loitering where they shouldn't.  Making sure we don't stare too long at our 'betters' or covet their lives of privilege.  Hell, if he murders some of the thieves, addicts, whores or other undesirables, so much the better for them."  Triss was standing almost toe to toe with the tall foreigner now, looking up into his eyes, her hate for Lamm burning forth.  The scars on her face seemed almost to glow red with the heat of her emotions.  "I will see him brought the justice he deserves," she hissed.

     A worried look spreads across Zellara's face as Triss approaches Shenzu and she raises her hand.  "Please! Do not fight here.  I understand the pain you must feel but you must reserve that for when you confront Lamm.  We have all suffered from what Lamm has done but that should not cloud our vision.  Lamm has escaped justice for so long because none have stood together against him.  Here fate has brought us together to accomplish what many alone have failed for years at doing.  We can't let this chance escape us.  Please, I beg of you to try and restrain your hatred until the one who deserves it is before you."  With this she clasps her hands together and wrings them to Triss.  "And to you..."  She presses her palms together facing Shenzu and raises them before her face.  "I beg instead that you hear my plea.  By killing my son Lamm has ended my bloodline.  For this I deserve his life.  For his crimes he would be put to death by the guard if they were capable of proving his involvement but he has never been caught before and is careful in the way he has carried out his crimes.  I ask that you give him the justice that he deserves and end his life.  I realize that this might be a great deal to ask of you.  I do not know what has been done to you and it might not have been as terrible a crime as might have been visited upon others but I beg you to understand that what I require is his death.  If you require proof beyond my word mayhaps you will find what you need in his lair."  She lowered her hands and placed them upon the table palms down on either side of her harrow deck then turned back to Triss.  "A lair which I am afraid to disclose the location of.  You appear to be too desperate to slay Lamm and I fear that given his location you might rush ahead and not only die but give away the designs of those who also desire justice.  Lamm is a wily man who would change his location should he fear his lair no longer is secure.  So if I can not trust you to hold yourself back then I will have to ask you to leave.  This is a matter too great to put one's own need for vengeance above everyone else."

Beldan looks over at Zellara realizing he might have come across as too harsh "I apologize I may have been a bit too rash on my comment what I mean is I just dont think harrow cards readings would give you this kind of information whether that is true or not though doesn't matter to me now since you have gathered us here to go after Lamm" Beldan sat back and then listened to Shenzu, Eliora, and Triss speak their pieces and decided to voice himself after Zellara tried to calm the growing tensions in the room.

Woah let us calm ourselves her lass let us not do something that could upset our hostess. I get that Lamm is a very touchy subject for all of us here but its no reason to get angry at the others here regardless of how unserious one comes off as. While I do agree that he cant be left alive I see we have come to an impasse as to who gets to do the deed of putting Lamm down for good. Beldan sighed at bit then proceeded to take a breath before telling a bit about his story.

"Just like everyone else in here Lamm has taken something from me that I held dear to me and that was my father. It was just a few months ago that my father was out running errands for the forge he used to run. He was running a bit later then normal that day I recall so I closed up the workshop for him after getting home from Torag's shrine. It was not too long after that the guard showed up at the workshop to ask me to come and identify his body. Beldan clears his throat and takes a drink before continuing on. Now do I think he deserves to die for that and all of the other crimes absolutely. Do I think I have the right to be the one to kill him well that isn't for me to decide I personally think he should be hung in town square for all those he has harmed to see but I also can see that might not happen so as long as he is brought to justice in some fashion I cannot complain.

Aeraloth had kept silently tense during the whole conversation allowing the emotions of the others wash over him. He was not the smartest of men of that he knew and he could not dream to think about what consequences enacting justice on his enemy might cause but that never stopped him from acting. He had seen the fruits of remaining a coward in fear of the darkness of others before. When he spoke it was with a ofrce that cut through the others and filled the small room. "I cannot say that I smart enough to judge others, even Lamm. However even I know that that man's hunger will go wild if left unchecked and if someone else suffered the same fate I was forced to live because I did not act when I had the chance. I would be a worse monster then he is. So I refuse to simply leave here knowing that I had the ability to do more regardless of what happens next. I need to see this through to the end weather I'm alone or with others."

He stared down the old woman with an intensity of conviction that was almost electric. He had delt with to much trying to compensate for the loss of his mother to back down when he was so close to the source of his pain. What he did to the man when he got their he would figure out in the moment. He would take stock of the choices then and there and charge forward down his chosen path.

[info]
Diplo check to assure her of his convictions
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+3 : 8 + 3, total 11[/blockquote]
[/info]

As Triss approaches, Shenzu listens and looks over her. After Triss was done with her explain of what Lamm is all about, she is now toe to toe with Shenzu, as he is about to say something Zellara speaks up. Shenzu's attention focuses on Zellara, as she gives her explanation of what Lamm did to her family. After Zellara was done, Shenzu turns back to Triss, "I see what Lamm did to you, I just voiced how I feel about killing, if it comes down to Lamm or me to live I choose me. So lets get along for now to get this job done, this should be interesting."  Shenzu watches Triss for a reaction hopeful he doesn't need to fight this young women at some point. "If this is the chosen path of the group I'll tag along to give my support to the group."

Tiss sighed, and stepped back.  Nothing much from this one.  Probably for the best.  "Passion does not preclude planning.  I am capable of both."  Triss walked back to her seat, pulling the hood of her cloak back into place.  She had not intended to fight the man, but his indifference had been irksome.  But if the others did not want to kill Lamm, that would leave him to her to take her long overdue revenge.   Triss took her seat once again.  Looking at the other faces in the room from the security of the shadow of her cloak again, she settled on their host.  "If you don't believe it, look into my recent past, miss Zellara.  Or if the cards cannot be so specific, you could look at the recent graves in the Gray.  A man named Garrik, a former enforcer of Lamms lies there now.  Lamm may know already, and may choose to move.  I am not sure how paranoid he is now, Garrik was often in fights about town over his leaf or smoke.  Still, it might be wise to move sooner than later.  So I'll ask again, can your cards help us any closer to Lamm?  We should decide how to find him and begin devising a plan.  What skills do you all possess?  I can craft a few potions, acid, and other alchemical tools.  I can also make some explosives to use against our enemy.  I'm a fair shot with a crossbow, nothing stellar though." 
Honesty was best.  Alchemy was no crime, even if some of her concoctions might upset their sensibilities.  Simply leave those out.  Shouldn't need them with Lamm.  She would need to know what they had though.  Garrik was stupid.  Lamm wouldn't be.  But with so many new tools, there might be a real chance. 

Eliora spoke up. "Well if ya gotta know, I'm more o' the sneaky type, Pretty good with a knife, though I gotta say that I much prefer a scarf. She paused a moment, glancing at each individual at the table wondering what they were capable of before turning to Zellara. Zellara, I don't know much about the power ya seem to have, but if ya could give us some sort o' demonstration, it could cast away any lingerin' doubts these fine folk here may be havin', while also givin' us a bit o' a clue about what's to come" Eliora may commonly perform some simple tricks, but clearly whatever was up with these cards was something a bit larger than herself.

     Zellara looked down at her harrow deck.  "Perhaps a reading is in order then as some of you seem to desire it."  She reached out and gathered the cards on the table and returned them to the deck.  She quickly shuffles the deck.  The cards dance around her hands and fingers with uncanny grace as they weave strange patterns and orbits with each other.  "The Harrow is simple.  You need only ask of the cards what you wish to know." She stops shuffling and places a card face down on the table.  She then places eight cards around it to create a square of nine cards. "What you may ask of the cards is knowledge of the past."  She points to the left column.  "The present."  She points to the middle column.  "Or the future."  She finally points to the rightmost column.  "With respect to each you may ask of fortune."  She waves her hand across the top row.  "Misfortune." She waves her hand across the bottom row.  "Or of the actions and events which might sway one's fate." She waves her hand across the middle row. "Choose wisely and be prepared, for the cards might not give you an answer which you favor."

[info]Let the Harrowing Commence!
     Access the roll20 game from the link below and select which card you wish to choose by indicating in some way with the drawing tool using your character color.  The Harrowing will be read once all players have selected a card.  Please leave the cards face down.

https://app.roll20.net/join/1312035/FtRELw (https://app.roll20.net/join/1312035/FtRELw)[/info]

     Zellara considers everyone's choices for a moment before reaching out to begin flipping cards.  "Let us begin in the present."  She flips the card in the center of the array looking at Triss as she does so.  "The Mountain Man...  The card represents external forces act or become apparent.  Understanding what forces work to influence our action is vital when this card appears in this position.  The alternative reading of this card in this position is that you yourself are the external force intruding upon others.  An appropriate fortune as you sit here planning an assault upon Lamm and his gang.  An auspicious card for you to choose as it means your present actions will be especially potent.  Let us move on to past actions."  She moves her hand to the left and flips the next card.  "The Beating..."  She frowns.  "A one sided conflict.  Foolish actions which resulted in sound defeat exists in the past...  An unfortunate card which I believe a few of us have found in our fates when Lamm so horribly intruded into our lives.  Perhaps we can move on to past fortunes to lighten our souls after that grim reminder."  She moves her hand to the upper left card and flips it over keeping her gaze on Shenzu as she does so.  "The Twin...  A card representing duality.  In that duality good fortune has come to you.  Perhaps referring to your lives before and after coming to Korvosa.  Onward to misfortunes of the past."  She Flips the lower left card.  "The Owl..."  She once again frowns.  An expression of gloom comes across her face.  "Wisdom or knowledge foolishly used leading to misfortune...  A harsh lesson which I have certainly experienced.  Perhaps..." She looks up at Triss.  "This might be a reminder to more carefully use one's knowledge and wisdom than in the past." She looks down at the card and shakes her head slowly.  "I apologize for my mood.  The card is of particular importance to me.  Perhaps it is time to move on to the future beginning with our future actions." She moves to flip the middle right card while keeping her gaze on Beldan.  "The Trumpet...  A declaration of power either to or from you.  Perhaps a warning to carefully use of the power of your deity.  Mighty beings can be vengeful with the misuse of their power so I suggest you take care when utilizing the power of your god.  Now to move on to future misfortunes."  She moves her hand down to flip the next card and looks at Aeraloth.  "The Hidden Truth...  In opposition no less...  A dangerous secret will bring grief and misfortune throughout the land.  Not until the secret is brought to light will hope be able to glimmer once again...  A powerful fortune.  I am afraid it does not bode well for us.  Perhaps the good fortunes of the future will bring balance to this."  She moves quickly to flip the top right card a worried expression on her face.  "The Idiot... Also in opposition...  The one who feigns ignorance will be pivotal in bringing good fortune to the land.  You will need to find out who The Idiot is and enlist their aid if you wish to fight the misfortune of The Hidden Truth.  What powerful cards to give us insight into the future.  These will need to be contemplated at length but first let us return to the present."  She moves the side columns away from the center and flips the two remaining face-down cards.  "The Theater in its position of power and The Survivor misaligned...  potent cards in this reading.  These cards are tell us what might come of our present actions."  She points to The Mountain Man again.  "The Outside Power must be handled carefully for here stands a crossroad.  Failure brings loss and suffering."  She points to The Survivor.  "The potent nature of this card."  She lays a finger upon The Theater.  "In its position of power is not an outcome that can be avoided.  It is the card of prophecy fulfilled.  These..."  She picks up The Hidden Truth and The Idiot and places them on either side of The Theater.  "Are powerful cards in auspicious places further empowered the might of The Theater.  We can no longer escape from the fate spelled out by these cards.  We can only hope to navigate the future.  Beware, for The Idiot and The Hidden Truth are both tied in falsehoods and secrets.  Be wary of those who hide themselves for while we must find the one represented by The Idiot, The Hidden Truth itself warns that those who hide the secret are a dangerous foe."  She looks around at everyone sitting.  "Not a particularly uplifting Harrow.  Such things can and often do happen.  Many who have come to me for readings have found themselves disappointed when the truth is revealed and does not favor their preferred course of action."

[info]Everyone gains 2 Harrow points.  See Harrow point use thread for the bonuses you can spend them on (Will get around to typing it up soon).[/info]

"I don't know about it being disappointing." Aeraloth said crossing his arms with an almost relieved. "With Lamm and things that go on in this city I would have suspected you of lying or being a fraud if it was all sunshine and rainbows. Life is rarely the fairy tale people hope it to be as i imagine you know granny. Answers and a look at the path ahead are better then blind stumbling. But then again I'm the kind of man who doesn't mind walking to his death if it fits my needs. Even if I don't understand everything that was said at least we know that there is a darkness ahead and we need an idiot to stop it. There are plenty of those in this city its just a matter pf finding the right one." Aeraloth seemed strangely comforted by the fact that there seemed to be some large looming darkness as a bit of the tension in his shoulders and back seemed gone. Whether due to some ignorance of the true scope of the reading or another matter he nodded again more to himself then anything before continuing. "So Granny you've got your script where does the first act of our little venture begin? Certainly act one appears to be Lamm what comes next will come when it comes so there is no use fretting over future events when there are chooses to be made now. "

     "That is a simple affair.  Lamm's current lair is in an old fishery at Westpier 17.  I do not know how well he is guarded so be on your guard when you seek him out.  I will remain here and ponder upon the Harrow.  I am of no good in a fight and have otherwise already expended my usefulness.  I wish you all the best of fortunes in our quest.  May you all make it safely back here."

Eliora was taking in the harrowing, she didn't really know what much of it meant. It sounded like things would be troublesome, but that would be nothing new for her. Adversity was an old friend at this point.

"Zellara, I may not understand much o' ya fancy harrowing stuff, but I got to say, ya services are appreciated. I feel confident, though it won't be easy. The real question remainin' is do we strike tonight, or wait for the 'morrow?"

"The dwarf may be able to see in the dark, but I don't think the rest of us will have a good time.  Without planning, it's better to wait," Triss said.  "That's certainly not stopping us from planning, but it's some thing that has to be done right.  Isn't that what everyone was so keen to be reminding me?"  She asked, looking around the room, a slight note of scorn in both her look and voice.  "So, as I asked earlier, what can you all do?  Eliora has told us she's good with a blade, and she seemed to have some skill with acrobatics and stealth based on our introduction in the alley.  Beldan, you said you worked at a temple, so an acolyte?  A healer?  If we know what we can do, we're better equipped to take action.  You, Shenzu, look strong, any other, less obvious strengths?  And Mr. Vanron, you look to be a performer, are you among those with abilities beyond the simple parlor tricks, moving into the realm of real magic?"
The more they knew the better.  While she hadn't worked with people terribly often, it was always best to know what your allies were capable of.  As important if not more so than your enemies at times.  It would be prudent to have Eliora scout the area tomorrow, along with any others who had skills in that vein.  Not all of them necessarily.  While she could tail some, Triss was not sure her abilities would get her by too close of scrutiny unnoticed. 
"Perhaps the more pressing matter though, is deciding when and where to meet tomorrow.  Unless you are all dead set on going tonight, I'd prefer to have time to prepare.  As I may have mentioned earlier, my skill is in alchemical creations.  I can mix concoctions to cause one to be come bigger or smaller, to heal, or to enhance ones self in other ways.  I also have these, which I would rather not demonstrate here, but some explosions might do wonders to stop our opponents," Triss finished, laying out a few crystal vials mostly filled with a milky white chemical liquid.  "I can prepare what I need for tomorrow, and then make the necessary changes when we are more ready and have a better plan.  So, where and when should we meet again?  Here?  Or would you prefer we go elsewhere?"

"I agree, I've experienced the bad part of going in blind to many times to feel comfortable going into that man's lair unprepared. After all if we go in without a plan there is no telling how many people may be caught in the crossfire. You said earlier that he is one to keep children to do his dirty work." Aeraloth moved to stand then coming to his full height as he stretched out his back from hunching over to much."

"Though I'll leave the specifics to those more educated and far sighted then I. When my blood gets to boiling I don't always think about the future consequences." He towered over the small human alchemist as he did so being well over a foot tall then the girl and he still had more to grow. "And call me Aer or Aeraloth if you must, As for skills the general ability to throw my weight around, I have a few tricks up my sleeve. Lamm might find his eventual curtain call a shocking one." A bit of electricity moved across his tongue as he spoke casting his inner mouth in an eerie blue glow just for the girl to see before he turned around moving his stiff arms a bit as he did so.

"And as for a meeting place why not Bard's End. It's the largest tavern in the city and its always crowded. Better to meet in a public space where there are to many people for an ambush or eavesdropping. It's better we not stick to the shadows that Ghoul Lamm has had far to much time to roost in the darkness. Better to show those secrets out into the light where every member of the Theater has a good view of our little play right? And there is no better music for that kind of thing where money or class is less of an object." he said looking back at the others with a smirk

Shenzu ponders the harrow reading (The Twins), it was good fortune he came to korvosa, he met his wife here, it was a joyous time of his life. He also was listening to everyone, "I agree with Triss being able to see what we are doing is great, we can wait til tomorrow. Plus we will be rested and ready to go in the morning. For the meeting place, Bard's End sounds like a good spot "

"You are correct Triss I can see in the dark and my work at the temple did involve cleric work so I should be able to keep us standing for a while if we get injured. I can also cast a few offensive spells though it isnt my strong suit.  One other thing that could prove useful to us is I can make us weapons at my forge but I don't think there is enough time for that right now sadly."

After answering Triss's question Beldan takes a few moments to thinks over his Harrow Card Zellara drew for him. "The Trumpet...  A declaration of power either to or from you.  Perhaps a warning to carefully use of the power of your deity.  Mighty beings can be vengeful with the misuse of their power so I suggest you take care when utilizing the power of your god.  Now to move on to future misfortunes." "Hm I will have to think deeply before using Torag's power last thing we need right now is a vengeful god messing with us while trying to bring Lamm to justice."

After hearing Aeraloth talk about meeting up at Bard's End and speaks up. "If people want to meet up at the Bard's End I am fine with that but if you guys feel it is not a good spot I can offer up a meal and meet up spot at my home. Either way I am fine with where ever people want to meet up.

Beldan looks over to Shenzu and asks him about Triss's question. "So Shenzu most of us have talked about what we bring to the table when we enter Lamm's lair. Care to tell us what we can count on you for when it comes to skills and fighting abilities seems how you look like a strong fellow."

Shenzu turns to everyone and anwsers Triss and Beldan's question."I'm a monk from Starfall in Numeria. I've learned different martial arts from around the world. I specialize in the use of a quarterstaff and crossbow, along with my fists. I ended up staying in Korvosa and marrying a young women, was married for 4 years.  Till Lamm killed my wife, but I don't believe its my duty to kill him, karma will get to him so. I'll support this group in the quest ahead but I wont get my hand bloody unless its the last option."   

Eliora addressed the group. "I don't believe we should meet in a public place, even if its crowded enough to feel safe, Lamm has been around long enough that he has eyes and ears places ya'd never expect. I'd say it'd be best to meet here, or take up Beldan's offer to meet at his place.

She then addressed Shenzu specifically. "Shenzu, you're too wishy-washy chap. Ya gotta choose what ya wanna do, and do it with all ya heart. If you go around this city half-heartedly, a beast bigger than Lamm is sure to swallow ya if Lamm doesn't do it himself. Ya say that ya don't wanna fight, but ya wanna come along anyways. If ya don't fight its just dead weight. I 'ave seen too many people not take Lamm seriously and die. Ya don't wanna add yourself to that body count, do ya?"

Shenzu turns to Eliora, "I wont be on anyone's body count. I believe killing is not the answer to revenge, there is an authority in which Lamm should answer to. After listening to the others I wont be able to talk you guys in capturing him and handing him to the guards. So I'll still get my revenge for him killing my wife by bring his dead body to the guards for disposal. If that too wishy-washy for you so be it I don't have to prove myself to you."

"Alright there, Mr. Good Guy, you have fun doing that. Still doesn't address the issue on where we ought to meet though, anyone have a meaningful contribution?"

"I'd prefer to not get Granny here on that man's shit list we can't protect her and do what needs doing. We might need her cards if we get into trouble, as to while I'm open to going  to one of your homes. There is a saying about not shitting where you sleep that seems to work at this moment." Aeraloth crossed his arms." If some kid of Lamms sees us going to one of our homes as a group it will be that much easier to destroy us." He paused before he continued," and while we are being honest I don't feel like letting all of you know where I sleep at night. No offense I'm willing to work together if it means getting my hands on that ghoul, but much more would be stupid for all of us. We've barely gotten passed the opening curtain of this performance after all. Anyone so willing to risk their own standing while commendable risks being the customary death of the first act. So a neutral stage makes the only sense so that no one feels like taking advantage of the others."

"A more secure location would be valuable, certainly.  I'm afraid my... residence is anything but secure.  I can see the benefits to both using Belors house or a more public location.  Perhaps the best way to go would be to find a popular inn, possibly the one Aerloth suggested and having a private room there.  I would recommend either myself or Eliora as the one who keeps the room, as we are the most likely to be recognized by Lamm and his men,"  Triss looked over at the purple haired girl and corrected herself.  "No, it should be me.  Eliora is much more adept at stealth.  So long as we do not make overtly obvious moves with the rest of you and we were not followed here, Lamm should still be uninformed of his new enemies.  While Aeraloth may stand out a bit, and Shenzu is slightly more noticeable than most, I wouldn't see either of them being in a bar as being any problem.  And certainly no one is going to take notice of a single dwarf there.  And it's not as if it's all that strange for such fine gentlemen as yourselves to be invited up to a room for private matters at an inn now is it?" 

Aeraloth smirked "I'm a performer even if i do standout in normal public in places like that it would be stranger if I didn't. An audience likes and expects something interesting to look at. That alone is reason for me to be there and I'm fine with the private room. The more populated it is too the less any eccentricities of anyone else will be that much less noticeable in a place like the Bard's end. It's the best idea I think in making sure nothing goes weird on us. But I'd be a bad man not to point out from my well tested experience what it will look to the inn keeps of most places when they let women invite men back to their room. Some don't care but others don't want to be known as a brothel and well kick you out whether you got your clothes on or not. Just something to be aware of. Might be worth us all get a room at least for tonight as a group under your name. So that there aren't any wrong ideas. And you can keep for the room for yourself when we don't all need it".


Not that you look like a lady of the night or anything like that just inn's get suspicious is all" he quickly back pedaled

"Sounds like the Inn is the choice that people wanna go with, so I suppose I'll see you guys there tomorrow. I can take out the room if ya'd like, gonna be finding some inn to sleep in anyways." With that, Eliora rose, and waved to the group before exiting the house.

[info] if people want Eliora to rent the room, that can be said as she is leaving.[/info]

"Alright then the inn it seems to the place we are meeting if you want to pick up a room there go ahead. I will catch you people there then tomorrow. But in the mean time I have a project to try and finish up at home." Beldan waves back and heads to the door and proceeds back his workshop.


[info]Beldan finishes the rest of the day working on his warhammer.... Time remaining time to finish the weapon ~1 day[/info]

Aeraloth took that as his que to exit as well they would need some reasonable information if they were even going to attempt attacking that ghouls hide away all the better to gather any rumors he could. Finding a sailors dive where her might be able to sing a few shanties about the fairer sex might get him enough coin to pay his way into one of the dock hands good graces. A few mugs of ale tended to loosen tongues and get people talking. If he asked about becoming a dock hand himself for the extra cash he thought that a few extras questions about specifics might not seem to far out of the ordinary and if he came up empty there would be no harm done. "I'll be on time for my curtain call at the Bard's end myself tomorrow night. He called over his shoulder.



Note: for ease of explanation and story sake i'm gonna shorthand what i'm doing if at any point you want a scene of this stuff just let me know we can play it out in as much or little detail as you want. I'm also rolling all at once because there are multiple things need but you can hand wave wave as you please. If you don't like it  then i can just reroll all but the first to find the bar as you prefer.

[spoiler=the plan]Goal: To find a bar near the docks or a place where dock workers hangout to get some general information about the ware houses and surrounding area ect. by being a performer buying a few drinks and getting people talking without thinking. At no point will i be mentioning lamm or his hideout.

The questions I want answered are
- Who i should talk to about getting a job as a dock worker or any nobel who runs the place
- are the shipping areas owned by private families or open to public renting
- Are most of warehouses built similarly and if so what's the general layout/s
- any places of note near the docks (specific pdf named places brothels ect)

Things i want to take note of while hanging out in this bar: ( Bonus to a disguise check ect)
How people dress
How people speak
And their general mannerisms


[/spoiler]

[info]

Rolls

knowledge local: to see if i know of and or can find a suitable place where those types of people would be
Dc 10 as per the osrd
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20-1 : 6 - 1, total 5[/blockquote]

Diplomacy to act as the performer for the night
DC
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+3 : 11 + 3, total 14[/blockquote]

perform for that performance
DC:
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+7 : 6 + 7, total 13[/blockquote]

perception to locate a suitable mark during that performance
DC:
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+2 : 17 + 2, total 19[/blockquote]
Diplomacy + 5 gold in silver or copper for ale to get them talking for as long as possible in suitably cheap
DC
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+3 : 17 + 3, total 20[/blockquote]

[/info]

[info]I don't know how you feel about the forums karma rules but i'd like to spend karma to reroll it since its pretty big. if you don't like it then just ignore it no harm done.


reroll 5 karma
to find hangout
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20-1 : 19 - 1, total 18[/blockquote]
[/info]

[info]or if need be i'll just take the time in game to roll again on a failed check taking that reroll as my new find roll[/info]

     You are able to find a good haunt for Midland Quarter dock workers happy to listen to some of the classic sea shanties.  The mostly halfling crowd joyously raising a mug to the ceiling in tune to the songs.  Once the night wears on and most of the tavern patrons have left for the evening to sleep off their drink you find yourself in the company of a lone human, glad for the company of a taller (albeit a bit of an overshoot) sort than the predominantly halfling sailors he was used to dealing with.  After several drinks of mead which reminded the sailor of home back in Kalsgard you find him speaking of his distaste for the local area. 
     "Yer, never really liked coming down this far south.  No offense to ya but this far south the folk don't have the same kinda troubles we see back home.  Back home you can trust the men by yar side.  Down here, too many of teh Szarni and other criminals running around without any fear.  Now back home that wouldn't stand.  We got ter fight for all our lives against the winter and the fey and we don't take no shits from no one.  But here I come inter town and a bunch of them varisian kids swarm me.  Next thing I know me coin purse has been lifted and the little shits are gone.  Didn't happen too far from here either.  I don't know if you been over to the Westpier area but stay away from pier 15.  Couple of them warehouses look like they are infested by those little cutpurses.  I heard the area is left to them right now because the noble that owned those docks up and got eaten by a devilfish."  At this the sailor let out a deep chuckle.  "Her her her, now I've seen a devilfish or two in my time and let me tell you, the ones they got down here are half teh size of the ones up in teh Ironbound Archipelago.  Now those are a sight to see.  If yer looking for a real bit of adventure  we might have a berth for ya on my captain's ship for big strapping lad like you.  Probably better fit for you than round here.  I don't see why all the noble houses seem to want them stunted halflings sailing their ships.  Nothing against the small folk, I just have had to get cargo off one of their ships before and while I don't might a tight fit on a ship, there just ain't room for a man to move about on those things."  At this the man quaffed what remained in his mug and stood up stretching his back.  "Thanks for the mead southerner.  If you are looking fer dockwork I hear its House Arkona that looks fer humans to do their work up in the northern parts of the city, the rest prefer the wee folk.  Of course, if you are looking for a real man's work and don't mind the sail up to the Land of the Linnorm Kings we set sail in a couple days from Westpier 6 on the Snowfox."  The sailor trundled out the door of the tavern waving at you as he leaves.
     The barkeep wipes down the bar where the sailor was sitting.  "Heh, northerners are always going on about how great it is back north.  I don't really see the appeal of living someplace where trolls and wyrms could eat you at any moment, assuming any of their tall tales hold true.  Ah well, their grumbling about the fair climes of the south earns me a fair bit of coin from their drink whenever some roll into town."  The barkeep wink at you with this statement.  "You put a fair bit of coin down on him.  That's awfully generous of you and I don't have any reason to complain so let me give you a couple of tips your northerner friend probably left out.  All the docks around here are owned by some noble house or another but its not like you need to go all the way to their manor for the work.  If you see a ship sail into town and follow it to the dock then you are sure to find some quick work either loading or unloading it for a few hours.  He was right though, the docks and warehouses at Westpier 16 to 18 are a mess right now.  The noble that owned that area up and died the way he said and without a direct heir all the noble's property goes to the city for a couple years to sort things out and either find a hidden away heir or sell it all off at auction.  Course, no one manages the property in the meantime so the places get overrun by vagrants to the point where no one wants to buy them and have the hassle of clearing out the mess.  Could be a couple more years before the place is worth heading through for any respectable business.  Of course, if you have no money and need a place to sleep and don't mind the fear of a cutthroaght in the night then you might want to head into the area.  You don't strike me as the type though, too well kept."

[info]The docks of the city are ran by noble houses usually in quantities proportional to the wealth and power of the house in question.  All noble houses have at least one dock to their name which they manage and maintain in exchange for the ability to collect a docking fee additional to the city's standard taxes.

Dockwork is readily available to anyone.  The houses don't tend to have qualms about who they hire as long as nothing goes missing.  Simple gruntwork can be acquired at any dock.  Managing a dock on the other hand would either be handled by a member of the owning noble house or someone directly employed by them.

Dock facilities are as varied in construction as the houses that own them and the purpose for which they were originally built.

Midland Quarter is mostly defined by a north-south divide with the southern area around citadel Volshyenek, the headquarters of the korvosan guard, being a prosperous mercantile area.  The northern area is better defined by a more rough and tumble atmosphere catering to the dockworkers and sailors getting more dangerous the higher the dock address get (and the further away from the citadel you are).

Disguise bonus: if you are running through the feral region surrounding Westpier 17 (Where Gaedren is) try the Sczarni cutpurse or Shoanti thug looks. Just don't forget to get the tattoos right! [+1 to disguise checks for the area][/info]

Bard's end tomorrow night sounds like a plan see everyone. I'll take my leave for the the evening.  Shenzu leaves the house, wondering if this group of people will be able to work to together, When Shenzu gets home he meditates then does a work out session before heading to bed. In the morning Shenzu meditates and gets ready to meet up with the group at the Inn.

Finishing the last of his ale Aeraloth spent the rest of his night dreaming up a plan. It was time for the pencil pushers at the city hall to do what they did best by being overly slow to act and horrendously detailed oriented. This time however instead of stone walling the common people they would be their greatest help. There was a dead reach mans things that may hold the key to this entire performance. All he needed was a little help from the others, perhaps acting as a wealthy investor looking to anaylize plans of property or a long lost daughter or two. Even if it fooled them only for a few hours it would be quite a boon, But he would be little help actually knowing how best to apply what they could gather.

"Well, I can just leave that part to them." he thought as he went about returning home for the night. "Once their in someone should go and talk to the knights about this whole mess." Getting help with clean up and containment in case of problems would be key to this whole event. He fell asleep alongside his other band mates thinking of that two captains whose names from different orders stood for the few people with character who had power in this city.

"Of... of course not," Triss replied, It was simply him trying to be polite.  Besides, she could have vengeance on the man truly responsible for her state.  "I'll meet you all at the inn tomorrow then."

Outside, Triss breathed in the evening air.  Allies.  Not quite what she had planned, but it would be easier.  Even if some of them were fools enough to wish leniency on Lamm.  Less competition at least.  She pulled her hood down and set off towards the inn. 

When she arrived, she briefly considered the options.  A stay in the common room was not helpful.  If she was to sleep, better to retreat back to her previous haunt.  Either a room or a suite.  How much were they... She had stayed in inns before, but it was something of a rarity.  Too many people watching her.  Staring at her.  She hated that.  It wasn't until the innkeeper spoke that she realized she had become lost in her thoughts.  "Yes, sorry, I've heard you have a fine inn here. I was just admiring the care you seem to put into the place.  I do believe that this shall be the place.  You see I'm looking to entertain a few business associates of mine, hoping to perhaps impress them a bit, and have a slightly more private meeting place to work out the finer points of our negotiations.  Your establishment seems to be ideal.  Might I rent a larger room, perhaps even a smaller suite if you have any for a few days?  Probably only two days, though depending on how the meeting fares we could be here longer."
[spoiler]I'm assuming the rates will be the same as those listed in the PFSRD under goods and services, so 8 gold for 2 nights in a small suite.  If a diplomacy check is needed to get such a room, I'll have that rolled below, if not, disregard.
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+5 : 20 + 5, total 25[/blockquote][/spoiler]

The innkeeper appraises you.  His eyes linger on the scars.  "Well I suppose you could use the private room...  Just as long as your negotiations don't draw any Hellknights in here."  He takes your gold and hands you a key.  "The suite is upstairs, last door on the left.  You're a bit late for a fresh meal but help yourself to the sailor's stew we have going at the hearth."  He nods over to the common room's fireplace where a cauldron sits warming as he pulls a bowel and spoon out from behind the counter which he then hands to you.  "I've got some bread to go with it too if you want and I will whip you up something in the morning for breakfast.  Let me know when you need to use the private room and I can clear it out if anyone is already in there.  Now if you will excuse me."  With that he grabs a bottle of spirits and moves to the other end of the bar where a rather portly man was gesturing for his attention.

[info]Unless there is any further action from Triss the day ends and a new one dawns.  Any daily use abilities are refreshed and prepared spells are lost.  For the sake of bookkeeping and clarity, if you don't post what spells you prepare you will not have spells available.  You can prepare your spells whenever you so choose keeping in mind the time required to do so.[/info]

Aeraloth arrived first to the Bards end early that morning. He figured that the usual huge crowds would either be gone or drunk asleep on the tables. He had to say that he was excited to see the inside of this place for one of the first times. Though it was tempered by his hangover and lack of sleep from the night before. His loose shirt was barely hanging on him as he pulled up the finely colored fabric to be better cover as he walked in the door still trying to get the morning grogginess out of his eyes. He tried his best to hide his excitement as he took a moment to look around and then moved to the bar looking to see if anyone was one duty this ungodly early.

[info]
Perception check to scan the room for any extra details
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+2 : 6 + 2, total 8[/blockquote]
[/info]

Nothing appears out of the ordinary.  You have arrived before business seems to have picked up for the day as the common room of the inn is empty save for the innkeep coaxing a flame from the embers in the hearth and a scullery maid scrubbing away at the floor.  The smell of some savory food cooking away in the kitchen wafts from a doorway behind the bar.

Aeraloth moved up to the innkeeper slowly making sure to hit a chair gently while he walked to make his presence known as he called out "Good morning," as jovially as he could manage while jabbing his side with a chair and then moving around it. "Sorry about that" he said sheepishly, "Its been a long night." He paused a moment to allow them to finish and register his arrival.

"Did a girl with a scar rent a room last night? I've got a performance tonight and she promised to deliver some gods so that I can make a good impression." He said thumbing the lute which was situated between his shoulder blades."She apparently wanted to have a meeting here... Probably she is gonna try to stick me on the payment or something in a place like this."[/color]He said with a conceding shrug. "She makes good affects so she makes the prices."

"Do happen to know her room number?" He said giving a more detailed description in the process. "My other trope mates should be here in a bit."   

The innkeep doesn't bother to look up at you as he works away at the embers.  "Ah yeah I know the lass.  Don't know if she's up yet but she's got a room for your business."  He shrugs his shoulders to moron to a door in the back of the common room.  "You can wait for her in there. I'll see if she's ready for you.  Ellie!  Get some bread and cheese for the private room."  He finally seemed to get the fire going and propped some larger logs over the burning kindling.  He stood up and wiped some soot from his hands in his apron.  "Must be quite the performance.  You work for any of the big playhouses?  I could send some customers your way for the business you've brought in."

"Yeah I wish, most of the large playhouses have no idea I exist. My name is Aeraloth by the way, I got scouted for a private function and I'm hoping to get our name out there." He said sheepishly just rolling with the half truth. "Though I'm sure you've seen plenty of people trying to make their big breaks here. I mean this place is the Bard's End that means something in the performance world of this city. I can only imagine what it would be like to play when this place is packed to the gills." He said looking around at the large space once more for emphasis. "The girl is probably trying to scare me he laughed. She was hired to help do all the effects for the party and I imagine she wants to make sure a less to do kid won't put egg on their face." He laughed the nerves of what was to come next feeding authenticity to his performance.

"To be honest I'd love to be getting my name out in a place like this. These parties pay okay but they hardly lead to repeat performances or good will from the audience. To be able to cut your teeth at the Bard's End truly leads to a performer growing as an artist. If you really want to be someone here is the best place to learn and grow the fundamentals." He paused for a moment taking in the atmosphere of the place before continuing. "Well I better get going if I don't get some good practice with the stuff I'm picking up then all hell could break loose when there is an audience." He bowed slightly then as he moved to the back room. "Thank you and this inn for everything that you have done for us performers it really means a lot. Hopefully the next time we meet I'll be able to put on a show for you as well.

[info]Let me know if you want me to roll something[/info]

     The innkeep is surprised by the praise and beams with pride as he responds.  "Well if there isn't already someone performing feel free to ply your trade.  It's first come first serve though and no fighting.  I don't want this place getting a reputation for being just another brawling room for sailors."  The innkeep looks up to the front door where a man holding up a haunch of meat was beckoning.  "Sorry, I have to handle some business.  Feel free to set yourself up if you want.  Though as you can see, things aren't too busy right now.  Should pick up in a couple hours though."  At this the innkeep walks up to the meat vendor and begins haggling prices.

Aeraloth went to the back room that the innkeeper had mentioned before and took a seat at the table waiting for the others to arrive. His plan to fool town hall would be dicey but if they pulled it off they would get quite an upperhand by looking a bit ahead in the script and if it needed some extra selling the prospect of possibly inheriting a childless nobles fortune was possible. He never resorted to theft before and he doubted that a claim to the upper class would stick. But that was not what mattered they just had to get a look at his property holdings any possible construction plans or possible papers linking the dead noble to Lamm.

Aeraloth might be a bit paranoid but the rumors of how the noble came to his demise seemed suspect and he knew from personal experience that Lamm was more then capable of killing to get what he wanted and he had a feeling that the ghoul's reach might hav just reached high enough from his festering grave to deal with some weak minded rich folk. Especially with his steady supply of his rumored product backing him up and giving him control. But the one thing he could not hope to control from his decrepit position was the city bureaucracy. That was a monster even royalty could not satisfy for long. And the rich did so like to write things down that much he knew. While he had never learned to read or write the best Aeraloth often watched the occasional party where he performed passing notes and letters meant to not be seen by others.

But, planning any further ahead was pointless until they had someone look through what city hall had under lock and key. A task for a quick tongued thief. If they could find evidence of dealings they might be able to leverage help from the city watch. The entire city knew that their was only a trustworthy few in their ranks but some had reached quite a high station and if they could even just take care of some of the unforeseen complications that would be a help.

Aeraloth rubbed the back of his head this was beginning to sound like quite a complicated pain, but this was the kind of song and dance required to get audiences in this city to take notice and he would be making quite a show of that ghoul by the time this entire enterprise was finished.  He let out a small sigh then he had to just get the curtain to rise in the first place and hope that no one drunkenly fell off their cues. His desire for vengeance was curbed by images of children getting caught in the crossfire of the entire event. It left a bitter taste in his mouth that as this whole venture became more real he did not think he was going to stomach.

((Triss is probably just gonna be sleeping until at least noon unless awoken by someone else. Having a bed insead of th floor of a broken building is awesome.))