It’s early afternoon when, after several days of travel, you finally arrive in the Amallian Empire’s capital city of Emberhall. Towering stone walls ring the settlement, uniformed guards patrolling the top. You pass through an iron gate onto a wide street lined with shops and bustling with people. Glancing at your letter once more, you follow the directions enclosed to the Bronze Blossom tavern.
This building is equally impressive as those surrounding it, its three stories decorated with marble pillars and swirling bronze inlays. As soon as you enter, a staff member recognizes you and flags you down. You are led past the main dining area, down a hallway, and into a much smaller room. Three armchairs and a small couch are arranged to face a fourth chair, which is next to a lit fireplace. The space is tastefully decorated, with a maroon rug in the center of the floor and paintings of various landscapes adorning the walls. The man who escorted you here tells you, “Councilwoman Domine will be with you shortly,” then leaves.
His black hair has a shock of white hair through it on the left side. He is a fit man of large build but looks as if perhaps his best days are behind him - Mid 30s perhaps? Older? He is armed like a soldier but his clothing speaks of a higher social status. Kaemgen gives the man a slight nod of dismissal and steps into the room. It is richly but tastefully furnished and he steps around it appreciating the decor. Kaemgen McScáth would appear perfectly at home in such a room, if one did not look too close. He had the bearing and stature of a man used to such surroundings, his clothes reflected a similar combination of expense and taste. But upon a closer examination one can see that Kaemgen's hair is a bit longer and shaggier than it should be, his clothes are indeed fine and tailored but they're also mended and a bit frayed around the edges.
Kaemgen inspects each painting in turn and then goes to the armchair closest to the fourth chair and sits. Waiting patiently.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
We're doing one small murder-y thing for a bigger, better reason. The ends justify the means.
The tall figure who follows Kaemgen into the room looks immediately out of place amidst the finery. Her dark hair is unkempt and pulled back into some semblance of a haphazard bun, looking a but like there could be some twigs or leaves stuck within the knots and tangles. The satchel at her side, of obvious novice make, the stitches often meandering out of line, was stuffed full of papers and thin books, among other things. Her fingers, which were currrently busy plucking nervously at the strap of her satchel, were ink stained to a near black that faded easily into her dark skin. She's dressed in rough leathers of the sort those who spend most of their time in the wilds wear, for all that her air is very much 'distracted scholar.' Curiously, on what skin does show, shimmering silver tattoos in the shape of constellations are visible, as though the light dusting of freckles were connected and given shape.
She glances briefly around the room, her brown and silver mismatched gaze settling first on Kaemgen, before she makes her way to one of the free chairs. She hovers undecidedly over the back of it before giving in and moving around to sit.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
A young, blue-skinned tiefling woman is the next to be escorted in. She stands 5 1/2 feet tall if you count her horns that bend back and up above her head from her hairline. She is clad in browns and grey leather and linen traveling clothes with an instrument case slung over one shoulder. She pauses, her amethyst eyes eyes taking in the splendor of the room a moment before she turns to her left and methodically runs one hand along each wall gently tapping as she does so before finally taking a seat on the couch. She looks startled a moment as if just taking in the fact that she is not alone in the room and says, “Oh, hello there. My name is Alyyja. And you are?”
Alyyja, you don't find anything particularly notable on the walls. They're made of white wooden panels with bronze trim, and spaced between the paintings are delicate lanterns that glow with a magical-looking light.
Kaemgen gives a slight bow. "Yes, of course. How rude of me. I am Kaemgen McScáth of Tanglewoods. It's a bit east of Shadecrest. Pleased to meet you, Alyyyja. I presume you are here as well to see the Councilwoman?" While waiting for an answer, Kaemgen also looks to the tall, hurried looking woman and awaits her introduction as well.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
We're doing one small murder-y thing for a bigger, better reason. The ends justify the means.
"Ah, I am Sael," she offers, looking up to find herself being looked at. "I got a message. From the...Councilwoman?" She was so unused to talking to other people. Definitely more used to muttering to herself over her research.
Most would likely hear the next arrival before seeing him. Chainmail noisily clanked with each heavy footfall, the source of the noise revealing itself shortly when the next figure is escorted in. Were the room dark, those with Darkvision may mistake the male figure as a regular Goliath. Standing 7' 3" tall and roughly 330lbs, a bald head with a bit of a reflective sheen to it and tribal tattoos trailing from where his armor covered up to his chin marked him as at least once having been a normal Goliath. Light and a color palette however showed an arctic blue skin tone contrasting with the admiral blue tattoos, as well as glossy black eyes and odd vestigial growths from just above his elbows on the outside of his arms. A flail which appeared to be a chain which was once attached to a hunk of stone hung from his waist, along side a pair of handaxes while a shield rested upon his back. Beneath his chainmail armor appeared to be simple padded clothing, nothing remarkable or terribly decorative besides a bit of fur at the end of the pants to aid in insulating heat.
Despite the oddity that was his eyes, a huge toothy smile appeared on his face as in four massive steps the Goliath made his way over to the others who seemed to be gathered. In a booming deep voice, though oddly seemingly a bit restrained as well given that he knew his normal volume may get him in trouble here "Greetings all! I am Bearhug Ianric! If I need to lower my voice please tell me. I am used to needing to yell over my fellow large ones, and you small folks have such delicate ears it seems! Who might you all be?" Despite the incredibly blanketed claim and manner that he bulldozed into the conversation he maintains the genuinely toothy and genuine smile throughout speaking.
Kaemgen watched the Goliath and evaluated them on several levels as they entered - Societal status was easily assumed, wealth status also easily evaluated with a quick eyeing. Threat level and intention were always trickier to determine, but their was no ruckus or dust up at their arrival so Kaemgen could only presume that they too were here on invitation of the Councilwoman.
Kaemgen offered his hand as the new arrival approached. "Mr. Ianric," Kaemgen said pronouncing the name carefully, trying to set it in his own mind as well as not offend. "I am Kaemgen McScáth. I assure you we can hear you just fine..."
"With us we have Alyyja and Sael," Kaemgen gestures to each in turn. "It seems the Councilwoman has a full gathering planned for this evening. I don't suppose you have any idea on what the occasion for the invitations are....?" While letting the question tail off, Kaemgen will indicate the open seats to Bearhug as an invitation for him to sit.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
We're doing one small murder-y thing for a bigger, better reason. The ends justify the means.
Dressed in leather armor made of interconnection plates, draped in a long robe of black and red, Vorkaz strides into the tavern. On his head sits a helm with a skull like face painted on and horns. Sheathed on his right is long blade and hanging from his other side is a red crystal that his hand sits on. Those paying attention would notice his red skin, barely visible around his neck and fingers. As he is directed towards the back, he bows slightly and in a guttural voice, far more used to the harsher tongues of monsters, thanks the staff member.
Upon entering the room, his yellow eyes sweep over those already seated. He moves fluidly over to the last free chair and bows to everyone before sitting down. "Greetings. I am honored to meet others who have been summoned by the Lady Domine. I take it that is why we are all gathered? I have the honor to be Vorkaz Spellblade, former Spear of the Stone Banner," he says in a calm and measured voice. As he watches those gathered, he relaxes and his hand leaves the crystal on his belt. Settling in a bit, he reaches up and removes his helm. His red skin, and protruding tusks make it very obvious that he is goblinkin.
Kaemgen't eyes narrow and his hand moves subtly to his sword as Vorkaz enters. His assessment is quicker, and easier, than when the Goliath entered. Still, all indications are that this latest to enter is also an invited guest so Kaemgen says nothing untoward. When the helmet is removed Kaemgen actually relaxes slightly. He has dealt with goblinoids before. Not often, but when necessary. They can be reasoned with, and even reasonable... on occasion. And when in smaller groups.
Kaemgen give a head nod and says "'Greetings," at the end of Vorkaz's introduction. "I was just wondering aloud if any of us knew the purpose of this gathering..."
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
We're doing one small murder-y thing for a bigger, better reason. The ends justify the means.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Alyyja slides her viol from its case. She raises an eyebrow noting Kaemgen’s trepidation upon the original entrances of the two larger beings. Absentmindedly plucking a few notes she briefly wonders if she should be less comfortable in these new surroundings despite trusting so in Councilwoman Domine. “Good day to you, Bearhug, Vorkaz. As Kaemgen stated, I am Alyyja and I also am unaware of the reason for the summons.”
(Does Alyyja recognize the term Spear of the Stone Banner? History roll
"I didn't even know the woman knew how to find me," Sael confides, shrugging. She seems unconcerned about Vorkaz being goblinkin, well used to running into unusual sorts out in the wilds. "We ran into one another once, years ago; I'd nearly forgotten until she sent the message." Such an odd assortment for a gathering in such a fine place - Sael could not deny that she was growing increasingly curious about Councilwoman Domine's plans for them. "I would like to know why I have been called away from my research, though; I was nearly to a breakthrough..."
Alyyja, you recall hearing about the Stone Banner once or twice in passing. It is one of the major hobgoblin legions that populates the northwestern corner of Torea. Though technically illegal, like many other groups of its kind, its existence is tolerated so long as they stay away from humanoid civilizations.
As you're conversing, you hear the door open behind you once more, and immediately recognize Councilwoman Hazel Domine as she walks in. She looks nearly the same as the last time you saw her - dark skin, wild, curly black hair, and piercing pale blue eyes - though perhaps a bit older and a bit more stressed. She isn't dressed in the navy blue uniform of the Council that you might expect. Instead, she wears a brown cloak and well-made but simple clothing. You gather that the intent might be to avoid drawing eyes.
Hazel brushes past the assembled group to take a seat in the chair near the fireplace, looking to you with a small smile."First, I would like to thank you all for being here. I am sure your journeys were not easy, and I appreciate the time and effort you have taken to meet me."As she speaks, she makes eye contact with each of you individually. Her gaze is kind, but slightly unsettling, as if she knows things about you that you don't know about yourself."Now, before we get started, I have something to ask of you - your discretion. The matters we are about to discuss cannot be revealed to anyone, especially my fellow Council members. I'm sure you have questions, and I regret that I can't answer them without revealing too much. If you don't believe you can handle this level of secrecy, I invite you to leave now. You will not be judged or punished for making this decision."
"I swore my life to you and my word cannot be broken. Whatever you desire of me shall be yours milady," Vorkaz says as he stands and bows deeply before the council woman. At her appearance he seems much more relaxed and much more rigid in his speech. "Only what you tell me to do to repay my life debt matters to me. Not what the council wants or what the world cares about. Since I last saw you I have attempted to help others and make the world a better place, per your command, and I would continue that under your direct command."
Prior to the Councilwoman's arrival, Ianric had simply looked back and forth as the others spoke, letting out a couple barks of laughter at the comment of not knowing how she had found someone "I am far too bombastic to not be found when needed! There is no business which holds Ianric do-" his words are cut off first by a titanic growl from his stomach as he grimaces a bit, and second by the councilwoman's arrival.
After her words, the Goliath's face once more lights up with a massive toothy smile "You put food in my belly and foes in my path, The Bearhug shall crush all your problems! Metaphorically if necessary but preferably literally!"
Alyyja immediately ceases fidgeting with her viol upon seeing Hazel enter. She carefully slips it back into its case before blinking at Vorkaz’s response to her and also stands, performing a hesitant but deep and respectful curtsy showing a grace and knowledge of proper etiquette that belies her meager attire. “Anything you need, M’Lady.” She glances to the Goliath and hobgoblin briefly before continuing, “Though I am unsure how discreet a gathering such as us,” she motions to the two large humanoids and herself, “can be considered discreet.” She chuckles nervously as she finishes.
Kaemgen greets Councilwoman Hazel with all due respect when she enters and remains standing until she sits. He then listens to her request silently and thoughtfully.
"It can be reckless to give ones word on a thing without knowing it's nature," he says after some silence. "From another I would likely scoff and tell them to stop playing at intrigue and to state their request, or begone... But while I do not know you well, I think I know enough of your nature to know you do not play at games nor intend ill upon any who do not deserve it. With that in mind, and considering past kindnesses you have shown to me, you have my word that I shall keep your confidence," Kaemgen eventually speechifies. He does that from time to time...
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
We're doing one small murder-y thing for a bigger, better reason. The ends justify the means.
Sael, used to secrets, simply shrugs. "Discretion is simple," she agrees, finally stilling her fingers from their nervous fiddling. "You have my word, of course, that I will tell no one," she adds, as though realizing the clarification may be needed. She is curious about what Hazel might have to say - that old, dangerous desire to know things stirred up at the prospect of secrecy. It's what got her into the trouble Hazel helped get her out of in the first place, but they say old habits are hard to break for a reason. "Please, explain what you need of us."
To Alyyja's comment, Hazel replies,"I don't ask that you conceal yourselves, only your intentions."
"Very well,"she continues once all of you have spoken. "Councilwoman Elasor has been acting... strange as of late. In all the time I've known her, she's been an incredibly kind woman, a mentor to me. But in the past month or so, she's turned cold, uncaring. She refuses to pass motions that will clearly help the people. She won't speak with me outside of official meetings. I don't know what's going on but this isn't her. The rest of the Council refuses to acknowledge this change, whether out of fear or because they're on her side, I can't say. Regardless, I'm taking the precaution of assuming they can't be trusted."
Hazel pauses to reach into her pocket and withdraw a two-inch-long vial filled with crimson liquid. "I have a friend, an alchemist, in Clearpoint who will know what to do with this. I realize delivering it to him may seem like a trivial task, but I fear it's only the beginning. If it is, I want to have allies by my side."
It’s early afternoon when, after several days of travel, you finally arrive in the Amallian Empire’s capital city of Emberhall. Towering stone walls ring the settlement, uniformed guards patrolling the top. You pass through an iron gate onto a wide street lined with shops and bustling with people. Glancing at your letter once more, you follow the directions enclosed to the Bronze Blossom tavern.
This building is equally impressive as those surrounding it, its three stories decorated with marble pillars and swirling bronze inlays. As soon as you enter, a staff member recognizes you and flags you down. You are led past the main dining area, down a hallway, and into a much smaller room. Three armchairs and a small couch are arranged to face a fourth chair, which is next to a lit fireplace. The space is tastefully decorated, with a maroon rug in the center of the floor and paintings of various landscapes adorning the walls. The man who escorted you here tells you, “Councilwoman Domine will be with you shortly,” then leaves.
Everyone, please introduce your characters!
Iris - Tiefling Cleric | Cassandra - Elf Warlock | Solace - Tiefling Monk | Tempest - Hexblood Monk | Lex - Fire Genasi Barbarian
Lilyn - Triton Ranger | Candor - Changeling Bard | Echo - Changeling Warlock/Bard | Rowan - Fairy Wizard
His black hair has a shock of white hair through it on the left side. He is a fit man of large build but looks as if perhaps his best days are behind him - Mid 30s perhaps? Older? He is armed like a soldier but his clothing speaks of a higher social status. Kaemgen gives the man a slight nod of dismissal and steps into the room. It is richly but tastefully furnished and he steps around it appreciating the decor. Kaemgen McScáth would appear perfectly at home in such a room, if one did not look too close. He had the bearing and stature of a man used to such surroundings, his clothes reflected a similar combination of expense and taste. But upon a closer examination one can see that Kaemgen's hair is a bit longer and shaggier than it should be, his clothes are indeed fine and tailored but they're also mended and a bit frayed around the edges.
Kaemgen inspects each painting in turn and then goes to the armchair closest to the fourth chair and sits. Waiting patiently.
We're doing one small murder-y thing for a bigger, better reason. The ends justify the means.
-- Eleanor Shellstrop
(Mobile)
The tall figure who follows Kaemgen into the room looks immediately out of place amidst the finery. Her dark hair is unkempt and pulled back into some semblance of a haphazard bun, looking a but like there could be some twigs or leaves stuck within the knots and tangles. The satchel at her side, of obvious novice make, the stitches often meandering out of line, was stuffed full of papers and thin books, among other things. Her fingers, which were currrently busy plucking nervously at the strap of her satchel, were ink stained to a near black that faded easily into her dark skin. She's dressed in rough leathers of the sort those who spend most of their time in the wilds wear, for all that her air is very much 'distracted scholar.' Curiously, on what skin does show, shimmering silver tattoos in the shape of constellations are visible, as though the light dusting of freckles were connected and given shape.
She glances briefly around the room, her brown and silver mismatched gaze settling first on Kaemgen, before she makes her way to one of the free chairs. She hovers undecidedly over the back of it before giving in and moving around to sit.
No Longer Active
A young, blue-skinned tiefling woman is the next to be escorted in. She stands 5 1/2 feet tall if you count her horns that bend back and up above her head from her hairline. She is clad in browns and grey leather and linen traveling clothes with an instrument case slung over one shoulder. She pauses, her amethyst eyes eyes taking in the splendor of the room a moment before she turns to her left and methodically runs one hand along each wall gently tapping as she does so before finally taking a seat on the couch. She looks startled a moment as if just taking in the fact that she is not alone in the room and says, “Oh, hello there. My name is Alyyja. And you are?”
(Investigation on the walls: 5 )
Alyyja, you don't find anything particularly notable on the walls. They're made of white wooden panels with bronze trim, and spaced between the paintings are delicate lanterns that glow with a magical-looking light.
Iris - Tiefling Cleric | Cassandra - Elf Warlock | Solace - Tiefling Monk | Tempest - Hexblood Monk | Lex - Fire Genasi Barbarian
Lilyn - Triton Ranger | Candor - Changeling Bard | Echo - Changeling Warlock/Bard | Rowan - Fairy Wizard
Kaemgen gives a slight bow. "Yes, of course. How rude of me. I am Kaemgen McScáth of Tanglewoods. It's a bit east of Shadecrest. Pleased to meet you, Alyyyja. I presume you are here as well to see the Councilwoman?" While waiting for an answer, Kaemgen also looks to the tall, hurried looking woman and awaits her introduction as well.
We're doing one small murder-y thing for a bigger, better reason. The ends justify the means.
-- Eleanor Shellstrop
"Ah, I am Sael," she offers, looking up to find herself being looked at. "I got a message. From the...Councilwoman?" She was so unused to talking to other people. Definitely more used to muttering to herself over her research.
No Longer Active
Most would likely hear the next arrival before seeing him. Chainmail noisily clanked with each heavy footfall, the source of the noise revealing itself shortly when the next figure is escorted in. Were the room dark, those with Darkvision may mistake the male figure as a regular Goliath. Standing 7' 3" tall and roughly 330lbs, a bald head with a bit of a reflective sheen to it and tribal tattoos trailing from where his armor covered up to his chin marked him as at least once having been a normal Goliath. Light and a color palette however showed an arctic blue skin tone contrasting with the admiral blue tattoos, as well as glossy black eyes and odd vestigial growths from just above his elbows on the outside of his arms. A flail which appeared to be a chain which was once attached to a hunk of stone hung from his waist, along side a pair of handaxes while a shield rested upon his back. Beneath his chainmail armor appeared to be simple padded clothing, nothing remarkable or terribly decorative besides a bit of fur at the end of the pants to aid in insulating heat.
Despite the oddity that was his eyes, a huge toothy smile appeared on his face as in four massive steps the Goliath made his way over to the others who seemed to be gathered. In a booming deep voice, though oddly seemingly a bit restrained as well given that he knew his normal volume may get him in trouble here "Greetings all! I am Bearhug Ianric! If I need to lower my voice please tell me. I am used to needing to yell over my fellow large ones, and you small folks have such delicate ears it seems! Who might you all be?" Despite the incredibly blanketed claim and manner that he bulldozed into the conversation he maintains the genuinely toothy and genuine smile throughout speaking.
Kaemgen watched the Goliath and evaluated them on several levels as they entered - Societal status was easily assumed, wealth status also easily evaluated with a quick eyeing. Threat level and intention were always trickier to determine, but their was no ruckus or dust up at their arrival so Kaemgen could only presume that they too were here on invitation of the Councilwoman.
Kaemgen offered his hand as the new arrival approached. "Mr. Ianric," Kaemgen said pronouncing the name carefully, trying to set it in his own mind as well as not offend. "I am Kaemgen McScáth. I assure you we can hear you just fine..."
"With us we have Alyyja and Sael," Kaemgen gestures to each in turn. "It seems the Councilwoman has a full gathering planned for this evening. I don't suppose you have any idea on what the occasion for the invitations are....?" While letting the question tail off, Kaemgen will indicate the open seats to Bearhug as an invitation for him to sit.
We're doing one small murder-y thing for a bigger, better reason. The ends justify the means.
-- Eleanor Shellstrop
Dressed in leather armor made of interconnection plates, draped in a long robe of black and red, Vorkaz strides into the tavern. On his head sits a helm with a skull like face painted on and horns. Sheathed on his right is long blade and hanging from his other side is a red crystal that his hand sits on. Those paying attention would notice his red skin, barely visible around his neck and fingers. As he is directed towards the back, he bows slightly and in a guttural voice, far more used to the harsher tongues of monsters, thanks the staff member.
Upon entering the room, his yellow eyes sweep over those already seated. He moves fluidly over to the last free chair and bows to everyone before sitting down. "Greetings. I am honored to meet others who have been summoned by the Lady Domine. I take it that is why we are all gathered? I have the honor to be Vorkaz Spellblade, former Spear of the Stone Banner," he says in a calm and measured voice. As he watches those gathered, he relaxes and his hand leaves the crystal on his belt. Settling in a bit, he reaches up and removes his helm. His red skin, and protruding tusks make it very obvious that he is goblinkin.
Kaemgen't eyes narrow and his hand moves subtly to his sword as Vorkaz enters. His assessment is quicker, and easier, than when the Goliath entered. Still, all indications are that this latest to enter is also an invited guest so Kaemgen says nothing untoward. When the helmet is removed Kaemgen actually relaxes slightly. He has dealt with goblinoids before. Not often, but when necessary. They can be reasoned with, and even reasonable... on occasion. And when in smaller groups.
Kaemgen give a head nod and says "'Greetings," at the end of Vorkaz's introduction. "I was just wondering aloud if any of us knew the purpose of this gathering..."
We're doing one small murder-y thing for a bigger, better reason. The ends justify the means.
-- Eleanor Shellstrop
Alyyja slides her viol from its case. She raises an eyebrow noting Kaemgen’s trepidation upon the original entrances of the two larger beings. Absentmindedly plucking a few notes she briefly wonders if she should be less comfortable in these new surroundings despite trusting so in Councilwoman Domine. “Good day to you, Bearhug, Vorkaz. As Kaemgen stated, I am Alyyja and I also am unaware of the reason for the summons.”
(Does Alyyja recognize the term Spear of the Stone Banner? History roll
6
"I didn't even know the woman knew how to find me," Sael confides, shrugging. She seems unconcerned about Vorkaz being goblinkin, well used to running into unusual sorts out in the wilds. "We ran into one another once, years ago; I'd nearly forgotten until she sent the message." Such an odd assortment for a gathering in such a fine place - Sael could not deny that she was growing increasingly curious about Councilwoman Domine's plans for them. "I would like to know why I have been called away from my research, though; I was nearly to a breakthrough..."
No Longer Active
Alyyja, you recall hearing about the Stone Banner once or twice in passing. It is one of the major hobgoblin legions that populates the northwestern corner of Torea. Though technically illegal, like many other groups of its kind, its existence is tolerated so long as they stay away from humanoid civilizations.
As you're conversing, you hear the door open behind you once more, and immediately recognize Councilwoman Hazel Domine as she walks in. She looks nearly the same as the last time you saw her - dark skin, wild, curly black hair, and piercing pale blue eyes - though perhaps a bit older and a bit more stressed. She isn't dressed in the navy blue uniform of the Council that you might expect. Instead, she wears a brown cloak and well-made but simple clothing. You gather that the intent might be to avoid drawing eyes.
Hazel brushes past the assembled group to take a seat in the chair near the fireplace, looking to you with a small smile. "First, I would like to thank you all for being here. I am sure your journeys were not easy, and I appreciate the time and effort you have taken to meet me." As she speaks, she makes eye contact with each of you individually. Her gaze is kind, but slightly unsettling, as if she knows things about you that you don't know about yourself. "Now, before we get started, I have something to ask of you - your discretion. The matters we are about to discuss cannot be revealed to anyone, especially my fellow Council members. I'm sure you have questions, and I regret that I can't answer them without revealing too much. If you don't believe you can handle this level of secrecy, I invite you to leave now. You will not be judged or punished for making this decision."
Iris - Tiefling Cleric | Cassandra - Elf Warlock | Solace - Tiefling Monk | Tempest - Hexblood Monk | Lex - Fire Genasi Barbarian
Lilyn - Triton Ranger | Candor - Changeling Bard | Echo - Changeling Warlock/Bard | Rowan - Fairy Wizard
"I swore my life to you and my word cannot be broken. Whatever you desire of me shall be yours milady," Vorkaz says as he stands and bows deeply before the council woman. At her appearance he seems much more relaxed and much more rigid in his speech. "Only what you tell me to do to repay my life debt matters to me. Not what the council wants or what the world cares about. Since I last saw you I have attempted to help others and make the world a better place, per your command, and I would continue that under your direct command."
Prior to the Councilwoman's arrival, Ianric had simply looked back and forth as the others spoke, letting out a couple barks of laughter at the comment of not knowing how she had found someone "I am far too bombastic to not be found when needed! There is no business which holds Ianric do-" his words are cut off first by a titanic growl from his stomach as he grimaces a bit, and second by the councilwoman's arrival.
After her words, the Goliath's face once more lights up with a massive toothy smile "You put food in my belly and foes in my path, The Bearhug shall crush all your problems! Metaphorically if necessary but preferably literally!"
Alyyja immediately ceases fidgeting with her viol upon seeing Hazel enter. She carefully slips it back into its case before blinking at Vorkaz’s response to her and also stands, performing a hesitant but deep and respectful curtsy showing a grace and knowledge of proper etiquette that belies her meager attire. “Anything you need, M’Lady.” She glances to the Goliath and hobgoblin briefly before continuing, “Though I am unsure how discreet a gathering such as us,” she motions to the two large humanoids and herself, “can be considered discreet.” She chuckles nervously as she finishes.
Kaemgen greets Councilwoman Hazel with all due respect when she enters and remains standing until she sits. He then listens to her request silently and thoughtfully.
"It can be reckless to give ones word on a thing without knowing it's nature," he says after some silence. "From another I would likely scoff and tell them to stop playing at intrigue and to state their request, or begone... But while I do not know you well, I think I know enough of your nature to know you do not play at games nor intend ill upon any who do not deserve it. With that in mind, and considering past kindnesses you have shown to me, you have my word that I shall keep your confidence," Kaemgen eventually speechifies. He does that from time to time...
We're doing one small murder-y thing for a bigger, better reason. The ends justify the means.
-- Eleanor Shellstrop
Sael, used to secrets, simply shrugs. "Discretion is simple," she agrees, finally stilling her fingers from their nervous fiddling. "You have my word, of course, that I will tell no one," she adds, as though realizing the clarification may be needed. She is curious about what Hazel might have to say - that old, dangerous desire to know things stirred up at the prospect of secrecy. It's what got her into the trouble Hazel helped get her out of in the first place, but they say old habits are hard to break for a reason. "Please, explain what you need of us."
No Longer Active
To Alyyja's comment, Hazel replies, "I don't ask that you conceal yourselves, only your intentions."
"Very well," she continues once all of you have spoken. "Councilwoman Elasor has been acting... strange as of late. In all the time I've known her, she's been an incredibly kind woman, a mentor to me. But in the past month or so, she's turned cold, uncaring. She refuses to pass motions that will clearly help the people. She won't speak with me outside of official meetings. I don't know what's going on but this isn't her. The rest of the Council refuses to acknowledge this change, whether out of fear or because they're on her side, I can't say. Regardless, I'm taking the precaution of assuming they can't be trusted."
Hazel pauses to reach into her pocket and withdraw a two-inch-long vial filled with crimson liquid. "I have a friend, an alchemist, in Clearpoint who will know what to do with this. I realize delivering it to him may seem like a trivial task, but I fear it's only the beginning. If it is, I want to have allies by my side."
Iris - Tiefling Cleric | Cassandra - Elf Warlock | Solace - Tiefling Monk | Tempest - Hexblood Monk | Lex - Fire Genasi Barbarian
Lilyn - Triton Ranger | Candor - Changeling Bard | Echo - Changeling Warlock/Bard | Rowan - Fairy Wizard