Singe makes a tight loop of Marigold and his dad. Golden Bridges is quiet, Singe tells Marigold about the change in schedule. In the Chapel of Chance Luckbringer Stoutbridge is in a meeting, Singe leaves his message with an acolyte. I wonder if anyone has told him what tonight is celebrating. Singe muses as he stops to grab a bite to eat. Singe returns to the guild hall and moves his chest into his room. He changes into another suit and starts to copy and change some of his notes into his spellbook. The process is interrupted by exclamations of frustration and joy, he also makes a list. At about 5:00, Singe goes upstairs and finds Mr. Whistler. "I have a list of components I need for a spell; here you are. Every distinction made on the list is important. For example, it must be cedar charcoal, must. Spruce charcoal? I might end up with a one winged raven for Elysium's sake! Also, I am going out, but I should be back by... 7." With that, Singe walks briskly to Glenfellows' Folds, preparing himself for a family meal.

Zamar heads out in search of Whistler. He finds him in the common room accepting a delivery. He's also directing help around, getting things cleaned up and repaired in the kitchen.

Zamar calls out, “Ah, Mr. Whistler! Good afternoon to you. Many thanks for your hospitality. Has everyone else gone out on errands?”

"I believe so," Whistler responds. "They all spread out to take care of immediate business early on." He hands the man two silver pieces and points him towards the kitchen. "Is there something I can do for you?" He asks, turning towards Zamar.

"Yes," he responds, “I have a feeling my comrades in arms are going to want to spend their winnings. Where can I convert this gem to coin? Or do we need smaller gems.”

"Ah yes. The Counting House by the docks would be where you'd want to go. Be careful though... some of the smaller gangs in Baldur's Gate like to hide out there and lure people into alleys after exiting the place." He tilts his head, "Now would probably be the best time to go, much more later and it'll be more dangerous."

"Thank you for your counsel, I will be careful. " Zamar says. "Well, I'm off. When are we expected back.?"

"Slightly before sundown would be best," he replies.

"Very well. See you then. I'd ask if you needed anything while I am out, but you seem to have a few people already on that for you." Zamar smiles and takes his leave.

Koll calls out from behind as Zamar is departing. "Zamar! Wait up! I have no plans for the day. I overheard your conversation with Whistler and I'll be happy to accompany you. Besides, gangs of thieves, I feel we should be on the lookout for any reprisals from some of the teams we beat last night."

Zamar pauses to let Koll catch up. "I'd be delighted for the company. And more than a little reassured. I put up a good front, but I am nervous with this much wealth on my person."

The two travel through the streets of town, discussing the amazing events of the past day and their unlikely team, thrown together by chance. Finally, they arrive . The Counting House is a lot less like a house and more like an outside bazaar. Lines fill up what can only be described as long cells. The entrance to every long cell is guarded by two guards and the whole area seems to be patrolled by Counting House staff. This doesn't help your unease; however, as you feel as if eyes are watching you through the shadows. You stand in line, the brisk fog making the wait chillier than you're used to in your travels. As you reach the counter you see a man flanked by two guards. "How may I help you, sir?" He asks. He seems deep in his scrolls as he says this.

Zamar looks at the man and says, "Good day. I have a gem that I would like to split into liquid currency to more easily spend it in the city. 

"Split?" He asks, looking up from his scrolls. "How many times?

"The gem is worth 1000 gp.", Zamar says,. "I'd like to split it 7 ways, which is around 140 gp per person. So, whatever increments can come close to this would be ideal."

His interest peaks at the mention of the gem's value. "Really?" He asks, pulling a monocle from his pouch. "Allow me to be the judge." He holds his free hand out. Zamar proffers the gem, but watches him very carefully. 

The guards seem to be watching Koll. One is eyeing his tattoos. Zamar, noticing the guards attentions, remarks "We are part of Lord Viscardi's band."

One of the guards asks, "Both of you? If you're under duress..." He says, reaching for his weapon.

"He is my friend", Zamar assures him. "He bears the marks of his past, but he is a good man." The guard nods, but keeps his hand on the club's handle.

The appraiser takes the gem gingerly in his hands and puts the monocle to it. "Ahhhh... yes," he says. "I believe this was from our very own coffers. Exactly 1,000 gold dragons." He produces seven pouches and pulls out what look like rolls of paper. Each roll contains a different denomination. He divides them equally, splitting rolls as needed and places them into the pouches. Once he's satisfied he begins scribbling on the scroll. Finally he says, "Transaction is complete," taking the gem and handing it to one of the guards. The guard walks into the actual building of the Counting House, the gem clutched delicately in his hands.

"I am impressed with your skill and efficiency, sir. I look forward to doing more business with you in the future," Zamar says

"But of course," he says. Nodding slightly before returning to his scrolls.

Zamar and Koll take the pouches and depart, watching carefully to see if they are followed. They don't notice anything as they walk, but have the uneasy feeling that they are being followed. (Perception: Zamar - 8, Koll - 13)

"Let us be on our guard and make haste. Can you stealth?" Koll asks.

"Not well, but I can try." Zamar replies. "You are much faster than me. Do you want to take the money and run? And I can be the decoy?"

"We can duck into a busy establishment. I don't want to leave you behind" Koll responds. "Or we can run."

"I'm game," Zamar replies. "Shall we make a break for it?"

Koll nods and the two break into a run, hoping to elude pursuers. They continually lance over their shoulders and to the rooftops looking for threats.

(Perception at disadvantage: Zamar - 16, Koll - 5)

Their feeling is immediately confirmed when they see a figure on the rooftop trying to track them. As they duck into an empty alley, another from a rooftop takes chase. They quickly weave hteir way through the crowds and finally get the feeling that they might be safe. The rest of their travel through the city is uneventful.

As they walk, and catch their breath, Koll thinks on the events. How had they known who the right mark was?He decides that this may be the way the Counting House makes most of its profits. Large denominations are likely monitored, the appraiser gives a sign, the customer is tracked. It's a shady business, but profitable. The pair vow o be more ready when next they go there. At last they arrive at their new home. 

"Thanks for the help, Koll," Zamar says. "I'm sure that would have gone poorly if you had not had my back."

Once her ‘meal’ is finished, Shanolia quickly finds a way from the roof to street level and makes it down in short order, drawing little attention to herself. Once on the street, she quickly flags down a patrolling group of guards, who look a bit skeptical at her mask and sheathed weapons.

“Citizen?” One of the guards asks, the others sighing impatiently at the interruption.

"I have information that I believe you may be interested in. It involves the narcotics dealer Vivicus Sharp."

He eyes the Elf cautiously before asking; "And what is it you know?"

"He is associated with the Tower Wolves, and was present at the Happy Hangman less than 24 hours ago." She doesn't remember the exact phrasing of the password and decides to leave that bit out.

One of the other guards raises his eyebrow, asking  “How do you know this?"

"I went there as a participant in a scavenger hunt for Lord Viscardi. It was there that we came to possess a counterfeit coin, and where I came to possess this knowledge."

The third guard points at the guild house behind her. “Do you live here?”

"It would seem so. At least until our first 'adventure'." The third guard gives a small nod. Finally, the first guard speaks once more.

“If this information checks out, we'll deliver your reward there. Who should we call upon?" Shanolia thinks for a moment, internally debating giving her real name.

"Call upon Arya, and I shall answer." She opts to give her child name, in case she is on the wanted list as well.

"Thank you Arya." He turns to leave, before another passing guard speaks up.

“I was thinking of trying to join this guild,” he says. "How is it in that house?" The three guards she was previously talking to look on awkwardly.

"It is a bit of a mess, as we're still getting situated, however it is rather large compared to what I'm used to. Though, for ten people that is to be expected." He nods, seemingly regretful of not participating, before continuing his patrol. Once he's gone, the first guard speaks up once more.

"We'll send the reward to Arya if this pans out," He nods again and they continue their patrol.

Once her interaction with the guards is complete, Shanolia quickly finds a blacksmith shop and replaces the dagger she lost the night before, spending 2gp on the new one, before returning to the guild house through the front door.

################################

/r 1d20+1 = (17)+1 = 18 {Perception/Athletics Check for Getting Down}

/r 1d20+4 = (3)+4 = 7 {Int Save for Remembering Password}

-2gp for dagger (13gp remaining)

Tawna answers the door, dressed in her finery. "Uncle!" She squeals, trying to get a look behind him.
"Tawna!" Singe picks her up and spins her around in hug.
She wears a frown on her face as Singe sets her down. "Where's Woe Woe?" She asks.
"Woe couldn't make it." Singe says apologetically, putting on a frown. "She's off being an adventurer!"
"Oh no... mommy won't be happy. She made bird, and eggs, and lots and lots of rice."
"Oh no." Singe hides his confusion, but understands the meaning, "Where's everyone else?"
"Upstairs... Alton and Gran'pa, and Aunt Jasmine aren't here either." She twirls around anyway, eager to show off her dress. "Do you like my dress!?" She asks.
"It's wonderful!" Singe goes upstairs, letting Tawna take the lead.
"Mommy!" She calls out as she goes up the stairs. "Uncle's girlfriend is on adventures and couldn't make it!" She turns towards you as the stairs continue, trying to climb each one while looking back. It makes the ascent slow. "What kind of adventure is she on?" She asks. "Does she go on these adventures a lot? Did she kill monsters? I bet she kills monsters. My sister says monsters aren't even real.... are they real uncle?"
Singe smiles, thinking about how truthful to be with the girl. "Woe's on a secret mission! Even I don't know what she's doing! She does kill monsters, she's incredibly brave!"
"Oh!" Her face takes on a starry look. "I want to be just like her when I grow up!"

As the pair finally reach the top of the stairs, Paela is giving Singe a disapproving look. The family is all looking his way as well. Perrin and Marigold are sitting next to each other at the table with Thea sitting at the front. When Singe enter she stands, her robes stained from a long day's work. "How's my little flame?" She asks. "And what is this I heard about a girl??"
Singe smiles, "Oh, my coworker?" He directs this at Paela. "One of my new adventuring peers accompanied me here during yesterday's... interview process. It turns out it was a city wide scavenger hunt and we came to Paela for some help. Where do I sit?"
Singe is ushered to his seat by Paela, and after a few moments of awkward silence, broken by the call of, "I'm hungry!" By Callie, Paela goes to the kitchen to fetch the food. After a few moments Paela and Toddrick come out with platters and serve early-dinner. The dinner goes surprisingly well. The food is great and no one mentions Singe's death from the Baldur's Mouth. It's almost as if they're willing to forgive the fact that Woe couldn't make it just to see Singe alive and well.

Before he leaves, Singe's adopted mom gives him a tight hug. "I always knew you would go places," she says, wiping the tears from her eyes. "You need to stay safe," she says. "Always."
"I always will be." Singe says, squeezing his mum. His hair begins to dance.
"Wait," she says as Singe wriggles free. "Take this with you... please." She pulls the holy symbol from around her neck and hands it to Singe. "It... it will protect you, I think. It was blessed by everyone in the temple, including Roscoe. We want you to stay safe."
"Thank you," He waves goodbye to his family, "Save my plate, if I'm lucky I'll be back for supper! And who knows, maybe I'll be back with an adventurer."

Returning to their new headquarters Koll finds Shanolia waiting to speak with him.

"I have a question for you, about Vivicus Sharp," she says, acting slightly cagey.

"The wanted man from the paper?" Koll says.

""Yes. I couldn't help but notice his presence at your brother's tavern. What is your relationship with him?"

"He is an old friend. A rogue, for sure, but he always had my back when I was younger. He tried to save me, from capture, drag me away before the Fists arrived, but I wouldn't let him. He and Loro are close. I imagine he's his right hand, as always."

"I see..." says Shanolia. "The Flaming Fist may arrive seeking Arya. If they do, point them to me."

A ripple of of consternation crosses Koll's face, but he stays calm. W"hat is going on? Did you report him to the guard? For what? A bit of gold? What of the alliance we struck? I must go and warn him."

"He is no ally of mine. If you wish to protect him, I will not hinder you. I merely shared the information I came to possess on our visit."

"It won't take them long to figure out who fingered him, even if you are using a false name. You'll be making an enemy. For all of us."

"The only creatures in Faerun who would recognize that name are the High Elven Council, and I'm afraid-" Shanolia shakes her head. "No matter. As I said before, I will make no effort to stop you, if you believe it is the best choice."

"All they'll have to do is follow the reward money," says Koll. He sweeps out of the room, calling over his shoulder. "You may have to give my regrets to Lord Viscardi about dinner. But this is a matter that may affect the entire guild."

Koll takes along the pouch of gold that was his share of the diamond. He will give it to Loro if it will appease him. He runs south toward the Happy Hangman, where the Tower Wolves hang out. He weaves through the crowds and the evening fog, arriving to find Bearwick sitting near the door, casually on guard as usual, lazily blowing smoke from a smokeleaf pipe. The Flaming Fist scouts are not likely to have come here too quickly. It may even take them a day to get organized.

Bearwick looks at Koll with a smile. "Well wasn't that quick?" He spits on the ground. "Your brother said to expect you. You here to drop off a pie?" 

"I forgot the pie. But I have other things. Gold and information."

Bearwick sticks his hand out at the mention of gold. "Gold is just as a good as a pie."

"I need to give it directly to Loro, old friend," says Koll. "But for all your hard work..." He fishes out a gold piece of his own and slides it into Bearwick's palm.

Bearwick accepts the gold and slips it into his pouch. "That ain't how it works anymore, friend. You ain't one of us no more. Loro will set the meet... you can't be going in and out whenever you like no more."

Koll sighs. "Fine. Tell him to send me a message. But, he also needs to know that thr Fists are zeroing in on Vivicus. They're coming for him."

The thief's eyes narrow. "You best get going, friend."

Koll gives him a bow, confident that he will pass on the message. Bearwick does not seem too far into the smokeleaf to forget something so important. He races back through the streets and finds himself there with time to spare. He'll not miss the dinner after all. When he sees Shanolia, he observes a look of regret in her eyes.

Whistler spends the majority of the day answering your questions and guiding new staff around to get the dining hall and kitchens ready for their pending use. He seems relieved at the company, more so when he sees how much time Lera is spending with Polly. It's almost like a weight off his shoulders knowing that Polly is left in good hands. The fog of Baldur's Gate blocks out the majority of the sun throughout the day, making everyone's trek through the city feel like a muddy adventure through an over-populated ghost town. Locals are used to it; however, and their days continue as if it's a normal occurrence. 

Viscardi comes out of his chambers shortly before nightfall, looking refreshed and energized to start the day. His customary cloak is off, revealing fine clothing specially tailored to fit his chiseled features. He carries no weapons within his own home, but you have no doubt by the look in his eyes that he is experienced in combat. Shortly after he makes his appearance, there's a knock at the door. Viscardi swoops past the party and answers it, opening it wide for everyone to see. It's Grapip Salgim Wrefan Lanfan, looking excited and ready to be the first customer of this new guild. 

"Grasalfan!" Viscardi says, taking the gnome's hand in his own. "I hope you had a good look at the Red Team last night. Please join us for dinner so that you can explain to them what you're looking for." The gnome nods his appreciation, his cheeks a bright red from the trek to the guildhouse. 

Seeing Lera, he gives her a sly smile."If you'd have told me you were part of the scavenger hunt, I'd have been much more open with ye, girly!" He says. "You gave us quite a surprise when you floated through that course. Quite the surprise indeed!" He makes his way over to one of the chairs and sits. "We're going to Lantan!" He exclaims, eyes bright and sparkling. 

"For the all the gods' sake! Chult!" Singe exclaims.

"Just a minor stop in Chult is all. Port Nyanzaru has gotten quite big over the years. After that, we sail to my homeland!" Grasalfan is beaming from ear to ear.

In gnommish, Lera greets Grasalfan. “Ho fiend! Your obstacle curse was a delight, and I’m always happy to surprise. Perhaps you can let me try another one.”

Zamar shakes his head and adds in Gnomish, “Excuse her sense of humor....At least I think it was a joke.”

“Joke? I’d be happy to go again. It was fun!” Lera replies.

"Ahem. 'Fiend', 'Curse'? Do you really not know the word 'Friend' in Gnomish. But you know obstacle. Please, child." Zamar gives her an incredulous look as he says this.

"Chult?" Singe says again, "The place with the death curse?"

“Glittergold’s shiny underthings,” Lera cursed. “I hate the ‘auch’ sound.”

"Apologies, Singe. We were trying to show deference to our guest and got carried away," Zamar says, trying to get the conversation back on track.

"No apology needed." Singe wazes off Zamar, "But you said we're going to Chult? The place where undead monsters lurk the jungles?"

Viscardi clears his throat, catching everyone's attention. "Please, everyone. Allow our guest to enter. We can discuss business soon. Dinner will be served soon, so please, sit." He ushers Grasalfan into the banquet area.

"Of course. We are just enthusiastic. Please, lead the way." Zamar follows.

“I never get to speak gnommish. Sorry I got carried away," Lera whispers as she follows the group to the table. 

Viscardi leads the group to the banquet table, where Polly is already seated. She's in a pretty blue dress, kicking her legs impatiently, and resting her head on a hand, elbow on the table. When she sees the party enter, she gets excited at the sight of Lera, and quickly motions that she's saved the sorcerer a seat, right next to her. "Please, sit," Viscardi repeats, seating himself next to Polly, at the head of the table.

Seeing how terribly this dinner is going Perrin decides, with a little nudge from Singe, that it is time to intervene. 

“If you’ll excuse me I have to go to the little halfling room.” Perrin leaves and immediately goes to the kitchen.

As soon as you get into the kitchen, you see Madaline standing over a pan of what appears to be peach cobbler, muttering to herself. Perrin walks in and immediately goes "Let me taste that before you do anything else to it. You're clearly having a bad kitchen day and I'm here to help." Silently, Madaline cuts into it, and you instantly realize it's not supposed to be peach cobbler, it's supposed to be peach pie. The crust has completely soaked up the sauce and the whole thing just falls apart. She places the mess on to a plate and hands it to you.

"Oh, sweetie. Honey. This wasn't supposed to be a cobbler was it." He lets out a big sigh. "Okay show me what ingredients you have we'll make a new pie."

"There aint time," Madaline says, crestfallen. "I knew I should't taken this job. I aint no cook."

"It's fine. We can make time. Show me what ingredients we have and I'll fix something up. Why don't you go out there and pour some more drinks? When you get to the aasamir lad tell him that Perrin needs him to keep everyone distracted for a while."

Madaline points to the cupboard. You'll find just the basics for baking, and on the counter is an assortment of fruits. Apples, peaches, berries.

No Cherries Perrin thinks.

A few moments later, Madaline wanders back into the kitchen with the wine decanter. "So, no fixun it?"

"I'm afraid not dear. However, we can make some peach crepes which shouldn't take too much time. Come on you can watch me as I work. I'll make a chief out of you. By the way I'm Perrin and your name is?"

"I'm Madaline," she said, seemingly uninterested. "Dinner was dreadful, eh? I just don't know what happened with that roast. Other than that disrespectful pig!"

"It's fine. You just overcooked it. It happens to the best of us. Don't worry while I'm around I'll be able to come and help you in the kitchen. I've been cooking since I was young so I'll teach you. I won't always be around and I'm sure Lord and Lady Viscardi well need good meals while I'm away. Now just watch what I do, for now, starting tomorrow I'll be back in the kitchen for a little bit in order to teach you what I know." With that Perrin begins working on the crepes.

Madaline is very impressed with your skill in the kitchen, and as she watches, she even begins to take notes, making sure to catch every little detail, in the hopes she can recreate this masterpiece in the future. "Master Perrin, I do say, you are a cooking genius!" For the first time, you see Madaline smile. "You gotta teach me your tricks!" The smile fades. "Or I might be fired."

“Don’t worry dear. I won’t let that happen. Now I presume this is the last course so I’ll sneak back into the dining room and then you come out and serve these okay?”

Madaline nods, pleased with knowing she'll get the credit for this amazing dessert. "I gotta clear the roast, then I'll serve these, creeps."

Perrin then returns back to the dining room.

//Cooking: NATURAL 20// 

“I’m so sorry,” Lera pours her water on the fire to put it out. “Sometimes I get wild magic surges... They’re unpredictable and often volatile... I’m so sorry.”

“If you’ll excuse me I have to go to the little halflings room.” Perrin leaves and immediately goes to the kitchen.

A few minutes after Perrin left the table, Madaline walked through the kitchen door with a large decanter in her hand. She takes time to pour wine for everyone, even Polly, who looks rather excited. Eldon shakes his head, and removes the goblet just as Polly was reaching for it. Once she got to Zamar, she leaned close to him and appeared to whisper something to him. Once she was done, she went back into the kitchen.

“Master Grasalfan,” Singe repositions himself in his seat, “Woe and I saw a diseased girl yesterday and while I have you here, I’d love to ask you about the disease. It was like nothing I had ever seen before.”

The gnome gulps, seeing the roast catch fire on Lera's plate. "Uh... yes. Er, no. This is the first I've heard of any disease spreading. A child you say? What symptoms did she posses?"

In response to this, Viscardi whispers something to Polly and her face immediately scrunches up and her eyes begin to water. "May I be excused?" She whispers. Viscardi nods to her and watches as she fast-walks off. He sighs, but listens to the conversation taking place.

“It’s not exactly dinner table friendly, but it may be pressing. Skin pale, no sweat, drool from the mouth, watering of the eyes, weak, inability to control motor functions, bleeding from the ears, dried blood on the nose.” Singe describes the symptoms.

"Poor girl," Grasalfan says. "Do you know who took her in their care? I may be able to ask around before we leave." He clarifies, "My expertise is more of the non-squishy nature."

“Lathander I believe," Singe responds.

"I will inquire," the gnome assures you.

Woe is sitting silently at the table. She is just poking at the dinner, then she pushes it to the side. She empties her wine glass as quickly as she can, with a succession of small, polite gulps and little pauses. She seems distracted and is not entering the conversation at this point. After a while Woe reaches for Polly's glass of wine and start drinking, this time more slowly.

“I think I burned myself,” Lera frowns at her arm. “If you’ll excuse me, I’d like to run some cold water on it and maybe dress it.”

Viscardi nods to Lera and then says Grasalfan, "Please let me know what you find as well."

Perrin enters the dining room and sits back down.  Moments after Perrin gets back to his seat, Madaline wanders in with the empty cart, and begins to clear the table of the offending roast. She doesn't seem surprised in the least that nobody has eaten any of it. She hurries back to the kitchen, and a few minutes later, returns. This time the cart is carrying little plates. "For dessert," she announces, for the first time. "Peach creeps." She places one before each of you, pausing before the empty seats where Polly and Lera were sitting. She placed one at each seat then lingered near the table. One bite is all you need, and you realize this might just be the most amazing crepe you've ever tasted in your life. You may never taste something this amazing again.

Shanolia calls Madaline over and whispers to her, asking if there was any way she could save her crepe until she's alone.  Madaline looks at Shanolia, expressionless, then removes the plate, putting it back on the cart. She moves back again, and remains lingering, waiting to see reactions.

Woe looks at her plate. She is hungry and this looks edible. She takes one bite, then smiles at Madaline. "Now, this is food!!! Thank you!"

"This is marvelous. Thank you." Singe says.

Seeing that Polly and Lera are missing Perrin calls Madaline over and says, "Save those two for Lady Viscardi and Lera. I'm sure they'll be hungry and we don't want their crepes to go bad. Also, great job. You'll be a fine cook."

Madaline beams, glad to see that the credit was, indeed, going to her. She gives Perrin a smile, and gathers Polly and Lera's plates, placing them next to Shanolia's. Grinning, she returns to the kitchen.

Singe waits until Madaline has left, "Mr. Viscardi, I love good desserts as much as the next man but please hire an actual cook."

“Singe I’m sure she’ll be fine. Everyone has a bad day in the kitchen and I’ll help guide her into making pastries like me. If this crepe is anything to go by she’s taking steps in the right direction.” Perrin assures him.

Viscardi sighs. "I apologize for the food," he says. "She's a relative of Allistra's and I thought she'd be able to reproduce some of the fine food we had at the Blade and Stars. If this continues, I will find a replacement."

Finally, Woe lifts her head up and looks at Viscardi, then Grasalfan: [in gnomish] "gutte nachten [good evening], Grasalfan" [then in common] "So, this is an expedition to gain knowledge. Would you want to reinstate the portal if possible? What would happen to the modrons here? You said, Mechanus will have replaced the ones cut off. If you open that portal, the ones on this side would then get destroyed?"

"I assume Primus would simply recalibrate the modrons, connect them back to the hive mind," Singe answers Woe.

"Those are all very good questions, madam," the gnome interjects. "I don't want to fix the portal, I want to investigate it. As for Primus, from what I've read he sends modrons to destroy rogue modrons."

"Why don't we save him the hassle?" Shanolia asks.

“But our job is to destroy these modrons. What if we get there and Primus already destroyed them. Then are we just guarding you from unknown hassles while you do your research?” Perrin asks the gnome. “It sound like though either we bash them or their creator does.”

"Well, they're free willed now. Unless they wish us harm, I see no reason to bash these mechanical wonders to bits. And they probably know that Primus is out to get them." Singe responds. "How did you learn of the portal? If word has made it here, is it possible that someone is now occupying the location?" He asks.

"I learned of the location through a Lantanese trader. It's a forbidden area of Lantan, and from my asking of others I've met I was able to pin down the location. If there are others that have already made it there, so be it. But seeing as the locals of Lantan are extremely guarded, I doubt it." He nods multiple times to reassure himself.

"What kind of problems are we going to run into if we go to is forbidden area? The word forbidden has certain...connotations," Zamar says.

"We'll find out when we get there!" Grasalfan exclaims. His excitement seems to raise just from talking about the islands.

"Do the Lantanese not like outsiders or are they simply reticent around the subject of the portal?" Singe asks.

"What I mean is who is forbidding it? And what are they prepared to do about it?" Zamar explains his question further.

"They're guarded. Always have been, even before the first Sundering. I should know, I was born there." Grasalfan pulls a pipe from his pouch and begins to stuff it with smokeleaf. "The locals of course. Forbidden for them to go... I couldn't say why. Perhaps their journey during the Sundering turned them into even more paranoid folk." He pips the pipe a few times and lights it.

"The portal is mechanical correct?" Singe asks.

"Yes." He replies, taking a long drag from the pipe. "By all accounts it is."

"Conjuration and artifice aren't really my purview; what's a good starting place? Perhaps something more specific than 'The High House of Wonders'." Singe asks. 

"I've been teaching on the subject well before you were born, boy. All we need to know is up here." He clenches the pipe in his teeth and points to his head. "But if you want to study more, feel free to come by the High House and I'll give you more tomes than you can carry."

Viscardi interrupts the current conversation, "I've been meaning to ask. Have you all come up with a name yet? Needle will want to know."

"He's already sent a courier twice," Whistler adds.

"I believe we are leaning toward 'Circle of the Scarlet Dawn, but am not sure if it is decided," Zamar responds.

Viscardi looks about the table for consensus.

Nods across the table settles it. "The Circle of the Scarlet Dawn," he repeats. "Very well. I like it, and I think it will suit this new guild very well." He gestures for Whistler and nods to everyone at the table. "I'm from an old house," he says. "We're known in many of the larger cities for owning property. In fact, I'll be leaving for Waterdeep in a couple days to clear a sale." Mr. Whistler walks to each of you and hands you a small pin. "This is the symbol of House Viscardi. Think of it as a signet ring. It will help identify you as part of this guild and members of this house." 

Grasalfan sees this as a cue to stand. "Well ladies and gents. I will return in half a week to help prepare for the journey. I'm looking forward to being your first contract!" He's beaming as he says this. He gives a final farewell to each of you, assuring you that you can visit the High House of Wonders if you need to talk more, and leaves. 

"Feel free to spend the time settling in. If you need additional comforts or alterations to your room, we have a member of the Carpenter's Guild coming in tomorrow. He can work on your rooms while you're on your journey." He gives you all a slight not before saying, "If you'll excuse me, I need to tend to my sister." With that, he leaves the dining room.

Mr. Whistler tilts his head and says, "I like the name, really. Very good."

As everyone finishes up and seperates to go about their business, Shanolia approaches Madaline and asks for her crepe, to take to the roof.

"Be sure to tell me if you like it." She responds with a light smile, handing over the crepe wrapped in a soft cloth. Shanolia nods curtly.

"I will be sure to let you know. Judging by the looks on everyone's faces, it must be phenomenal, I just didn't want to offend or ruin anyone's appetite by..." She waves her hand in front of her face, showing that she's referring to her ever-present mask, and by extension, the face underneath.

With a smile, Madaline returns to cleaning the kitchen, while Shanolia returns to the storage room, using her jerry-rigged "ladder" to climb to the roof. Once hidden in her spot from this morning she once again removes her mask, delicately unwrapping the pastry and trying a bite. Her eyes light up as her mouth is filled with the wonderful taste of peaches. In Abyssal, she mutters remorsefully, a single tear rolling down her cheek;

"Just like Mum used to make..." 

That afternoon...

After obtaining coffee, Lera had come back to the Guild Hall. She went looking for Viscardi and Polly in the East Wing, but was almost immediately intercepted by Polly. "Lera! Are you ready to explore the storage room?" She bounced up to the sorcerer, grinning ear to ear.

“I was going to ask your brother if I could take you out first, is that alright?”

Polly bit her lip. "E doesn't like to be bothered when he's working. He gets angry."

“Well, do you know when he’ll be done working?”

"Uh... tonight?" Polly shrugged. "He's usually really busy during the day. That's why Mr. Whistler takes care of me. We could go ask him!"

“No, it’s fine. I’ll wait until dinner. I find that if asking someone for a favor, it’s best that they be in a good mood,” Lera sighed. Diplomacy could be so tiring sometimes. “So, storage room?”

Polly grinned again. "Yeah!" She began to drag Lera toward the storage room, ready for her adventure. Lera followed excitedly, arriving at the dusty storage room. For the most part, it was filled with boring and inconsequential items. She did find some letters from the previous owner, Idrin Mesk, which she promptly pocketed.

Beginning to tire of the rummaging, Lera began to play with some illusions. When Polly saw the rainbow pig on the wall, she began to clap excitedly. "Do more!" Before she could oblige, a commotion came out of the kitchen. It started with a scream, followed by Mr. Piggles running out chased by a woman with a broom. "Uh oh," Polly said scrambling off the stack of boxes. "Mr. Piggles!" Mr. Piggles saunters up to Polly, his snout red with some sort of sauce. Seeing the threat gone, the woman heads back to the kitchen, wiping sweat from her brow.

Did she hurt you?" Polly screeched. "I'll bite her knees!" Mr. Pigglez nuzzles up to Polly and starts chewing on her dress. He plops down and rolls onto his back expectantly, her dress still in his mouth.

“Knee biting doesn’t seem like the best choice,” Lera mused absentmindedly. “Knees are so hard. You’re better off biting the calves or thighs, or hitting her knees with something hard...”

Polly looks like she's about to cry. "Lera! He's bleeding!"

“He is?” Lera sat down next to the pig and began to investigate. She touched her finger to the red liquid on his snout and licked it, confirming that it was in fact sauce. Still, she had to make a show for her new friend. Lera wiped the sauce off with a kerchief and then cast minor illusion to make it look like she was healing the pig. "There, he's all better now."

Polly cuddles Mr. Piggles as Lera heals him. Once he's all better, she quickly stands. "I'll bite her... thigh!" She begins to storm into the kitchen.

“Polly, wait!” Lera attempts to grab Polly’s hand. “Pissing off the person in charge of making our food might not be best,” she whispered. “At least, not in a traceable way. How about we get back at her with a prank?”

The two girls plotted for hours, but by the time they were ready to enact their plan, Polly was called off to get ready for dinner. "Another time then," Lera had smiled.

At dinner...

“I think I burned myself," Lera used the clumsy excuse to get herself out of the disastrous dinner. "I’m going to go run some cold water on it." Instead of going to heal her imaginary ailment, the sorcerer immediately turned and walked toward the East Wing. As she neared the forbidden doors, she could quite plainly hear Polly crying.

Lera knocks gently on the door. “Hey Pols, it’s Lera. I was worried about you, so I left,” she says softly. There was no reply, but she did notice the crying got muffled. “I just want to keep you company while you cry. I even have a little more pie, since the dinner was so disastrous.”

The crying continues for a moment, but then she could hear a quiet, "C-come in."

Lera pushes open the door and stands just inside the room, closing it behind her. “Would you like a hug?” As she entered the room, she could tell it's a typical child's room. It's decorated with hand-drawn pictures, toys scattered about, dolls and even a wooden sword and shield. In a corner is a large pillow where Mr. Piggles is currently curled up, Polly snuggling him, and crying into his belly. Lera walked over and sat on the bed quietly, taking out the quarter of a pie that was left. She then cast minor illusion, creating a starry sky on the ceiling.

Polly continued to cry a few moments more, before she rolls over and stares up at the fake stars. "I hate him."

“Who do I have to beat up?” Lera asked.

"E says I can't leave the guild hall anymore. Because of the disease." She starts crying again. "You were gonna take me into the city. We were gonna explore! Now I'm not allowed to leave at all!"

“Oh Polly, I am so sorry,” Lera sighs. “We’ll have to work to convince him. And if we can’t, I’ll sneak you out.”

"He won't let you!" Polly sniffled loudly. "He so protective of me, ever since... since..." She erupts into tears again.

“Hey, it’s ok,” Lera awkwardly rubs Polly’s back. “I can’t even imagine what that must have been like. But I do know that you can’t lock yourself away in fear. I know my dad tried, but it doesn’t work. You’ll go on adventures of your own, Polly, I believe in that.”

Polly throws her arms around Lera's neck, in a hug. After a moment she pulls away. "He wants me to learn to be a proper Lady. He doesn't want me to go on adventures. He didn't even like it when Mr. Whistler brought me these!" She holds up the wooden sword and shield. "Instead, he brings me these stupid dolls. I hate these dolls!" With that, she begins to smash the dolls with the wooden sword. The sword smashes down into the face of one of the pretty dolls, completely shattering its face.

“My dad wants me to be a proper lady too,” Lera grabbed a different sword. “It took a lot of convincing to get him to let me do this. You’ll get there too, Pols. How old are you?”

"Six," she replied, then quickly added, "... and a half!"

“Well, then if I’m any indication, you only have to wait ten and a half more years before you can go on an adventure,” Lera smiled. “Would you like to really destroy these dolls?”

"Ten years..." Polly whined. "That so long!" She looked at the dolls, then walked over to the pile and began to dig through it. Finally she withdrew a doll that looked much older than the rest. It was well loved, and the dress was a little threadbear. It was easy to tell that doll was different than the others. She clutched it to her chest, and sat back on the bed. "Not this one," she said, through tears.

“We can destroy or save whatever you want to destroy or save.” Lera said softly. Polly shrugged, noncommitedly. “I’m trying to cheer you up, if this activity isn’t working then we can always pick a different one,” Lera bit her lip. “Sorry, I’m not very good at this.”

"I miss mommy and daddy. They used to let me have fun. And eat pies. And have friends. And leave the house!"

“I miss my mom too,” Lera sighed, flopping onto the bed and staring at the stars she had made. “Someday soon, E will realize that he can’t keep you locked away forever.”

"No he won't!"

"Maybe he won’t. Maybe he’ll lock you in a tower and have dragons guard you. And then maybe a group of adventurers with a paladin in shining armor will slay the dragon, climb the tower, and set you free,” Lera waved her hand, making the stars change to be an image of a dragon guarding a tower. “Or maybe I’ll just go talk to your brother and use my amazing charm to convince him to let you out every once in a while. The way I see it, those are the two most plausible options."

Polly pouted. "But I wanna kill the dragon!"

“Of course you’ll help, but one person alone can’t kill a dragon,” Lera smiled. “You need a bard or two to inspire you, a paladin to heal and smash things, a rogue to pick the locks of the tower, a monk to karate chop the dragon’s wings off, and a wizard to cast spells.”

"I wanna be a wizard! I wanna cast spells!"

“A wizard? I guess they’re alright,” Lera frowned. Sorcerers were way cooler. “What kind of spells would you cast?”

Polly scrunched up her face. "I'd throw a fireball right at E's face!"

“Are you sure? Your brother is pretty cool. I wish I had a brother.”

Polly frowns. "Ever since... you know... ever since that he's treated me different. Like I'm one of these stupid fragile dolls." She kicks some of the shattered pieces across her room, toward the door.

“I don’t think you’re a fragile doll.”

"You're not E. E makes the rules."

“I’m really convincing though. One time, I convinced someone to let me walk off with a 2,000 gold piece necklace.”

"Really?" Polly looked astonished. "Don't lie!"

“I would never! I’m rubbish at lying. But convincing people to do stuff? I’m loads better at,” Lera reached into her tunic and withdrew the charm. “See this necklace? It’s worth 2,000 dragons.”

"Wow," Polly whispered, eyes wide. "It's so pretty!"

“Thank you, Polly,” Lera smiled. “When you’re an adventurer, you’ll find treasures of your own.”

"Maybe," Polly said, frowning. "If I'm ever allowed to leave."

“You will,” Lera squeezed Polly’s hand. “I’ll talk to him tonight.”

Suddenly, the door opened, revealing a disapproving Lord Viscardi standing in the doorway. "It was a simple request to have our own area of the guild house to remain undisturbed," He says.

“Sorry, Lord Viscardi, but I’m not disturbing Polly,” Lera stood up and faced her new employer. “I was helping. She was upset, and I wanted to cheer her up.”

Viscardi wordlessly gestured to the door. "I invited her!" Polly runs up to her brother, standing defiantly.

"We can discuss this later, Polly. The rules we have are in place for a reason." He gives her a look that bodes no argument.

"I want friends! Why do you always take away my friends?" Polly whined.

“Polly, it’s alright,” Lera brushed off her skirt and turned to the lord. “Lord Viscardi, if I might be so bold, would you walk me back? I’d like to discuss something with you.”

Eldon nods and escorts Lera out of Polly's room. "I'll be back to discuss this, Polly," he assures her. His eyes linger on the smashed doll for a second before he closes the door. Moments after the door closes, they heard more smashing of dolls and Polly screaming.

“Look, as a former sheltered noble girl, I empathize with Polly, and I just want to be her friend,” Lera says softly to Viscardi as soon as they are out of earshot, getting right to the point. “But you should know that little sheltered noble girls get the itch to adventure fast. If you keep her cooped up in here, she’s going to do something stupid. Hells bells, that’s why I broke my arm the second time. I’m asking for a favor, one I know I have no right to ask for. Let me take her out of this building for an ‘adventure.’ It won’t be dangerous, we’ll just have a little fun. I will make sure she is safe.”

He thinks on it for a moment, hearing Polly rampage in her room. Mr. Piggles didn't work for long... how long will it be before the girl tires of Lera. "On one condition," he says. "You tell Whistler before you go."

“Deal,” she said, holding out her hand to shake his. Lera then turned to walk down the hall, catching sight of Perrin. “Oh, hi there, Perrin. How was the rest of dinner?”

Viscardi either didn't hear Perrin calling to him, or he was too set on visiting Polly. You see him escorting Lera out of the East Wing of the guildhouse 

“Deal,” Lera says, holding out her hand to shake his. She then turns to walk down the hall, catching sight of you. “Oh, hi there, Perrin. How was the rest of dinner?”

“I managed to save dessert. Peach Crepes. It was the best non cherry dish I’ve ever made. Anyways, is Polly okay she seemed upset and didn’t eat anything.”

“She’ll be alright,” Lera smiled at Perrin “Especially now. Do we have anything that’s not sweet? That’s actually edible? Because I’ll be honest, the only thing I’ve eaten today is cherry pie.”

“There was some fresh fruit. If you don’t want that I can always whip something up for you”

"Would you?" Lera's face lights up. "Oh Perrin, you're the best. I'll keep you company while you cook."

“Alright. I’ll make solid food for everyone. Nobody besides Koll really ate. Besides I’d promise Madaline that I’d teach her to cook. I guess her lessons start tonight”

"Thanks the stars for that. I was *this* close to magically flavoring my food." Zamar pipes in after finding Perrin and Lera. 

"Oh hi Dad, sorry I lit my food on fire... Again. It was for a good cause."

"It is a shame that these...acidents happen." Zamar smiles.

"Woe's going to bed.. Shanolia and Koll disappeared... Perrin's busy in the kitchen... I wonder if Zamar will hit me?" Singe muses as he tries to find Zamar.

"You know me pops, always accidentally setting stuff on fire," Lera winks. "So I probably shouldn't help you, Perrin. I don't want to burn your amazing food." She grabs both the halfling and her father by the hand, dragging them toward where she thinks the kitchen should be.

“Lera if I make some for Polly do you think you could get it to her? I’ll have Whistle give some to Lord Viscardi.” As he is being dragged he’ll direct Lera to the kitchen.

"I can try," Lera nods. "I don't want to disturb her if she's asleep, but I can always check."

“Children shouldn’t go to bed hungry. It’s bad for their health. She should at least get something. Even if it’s only a small snack.” Perrin says.

"I'm glad she has you to talk to. She seems to lead a very sheltered life. And I'm sure Lord Viscardi has good reason for it. But I would like for us to find a way to help." Zamar pipes in. 

The three of them turn the corner and see Singe looking for them. 

"Woe's going to bed.. Shanolia and Koll disappeared... Perrin's busy in the kitchen... I wonder if Zamar will hit me?" Singe muses as he tries to find Zamar.
"Ah! Here you are!" Singe says as he comes across Lera towing Perrin and Zamar along torwards the kitchen. "Do you any of you have a weapon or a fire bolt?" He begins to walk beside them. "Fire bolt's a little strong but it'll work."
"I have a dagger. Would that suffice?" Zamar asks hesitantly. "And I can cast firebolt," Lera pipes up.
"I'll take the dagger, I don't want to get burned." Singe says "Zamar, could you hit me?"
"With the pommel or the blade?" Zamar eyes his dagger in his hand.
"Your choice!" Singe says lightly.
"Pommel. Please. We don’t need blood on the floor." Perrin warns.
"Pommel, then. Just in case whatever you are up to does not work."
"I won't get hurt, I promise," Singe reassures Zamar and Perrin. Zamar takes a swipe at Singe, who doesn't try to move. Singe's hands push out in front of him, a fiery shield appears. The dagger clangs against the shield. A hum no louder than a fly fills the air around Singe.
"Impressive!" Zamar says.
The only thing that sounds impressive to me right now is whatever you're cooking, Lera messages to Perrin.
"Tough luck!" Singe smiles, "Do you here the buzzing? Let me try again." Singe performs the same basic motions, the shield appears again, he follows it with a quick hand motion. The humming disappears, "Interesting, let me make a note of that." Singe pulls out his book begins to write, and motions for Zamar to try again.Zamar swings again and misses
"I'll try again." Zamar says, still hesitant.
"Third time's the charm!" Singe says, still in his book.
Zamar's dagger sweeps right into Singe's side, or at least, Zamar thought it did. When he look, the dagger is still two inches away from Singe.
Singe begins to cackle, "I knew it would work!"
"Very nice! And the hum is gone. That's spectacular!" Zamar breathes, happy he didn't hurt his friend.
"I know right! It turns out that abjuration spells have a little residue magic left over! By contorting in to the right shape, I'm able to create a layer of protection!"
"That's quite useful. Guess I don't need that healing word after all." Zamar chuckles,
Singe stops laughing and looks seriously at Zamar, "No, I'm still going to get hit."
"That’s so cool. Do you think you could spread it across teammates?" Perrin says.
"Good idea... I'll see what I can do, I think that requires more finesse than what my current capabilities provide. Well, good night! If anyone would like to accompany me to the library tomorrow, I would enjoy the company. I think Grasalfan is going to give me a lot of reading." Singe waves goodbye and heads to his room. As he drifts off to sleep, he can still hear a slight hum, he smiles.

Zamar misses with his dagger with an 11 against Singe's shield (AC 15). Singe casts shield again. Zamar misses with a 9. Zamar hits with a 17 for 3 points of piercing damage to Singe, but it is negated by Singe's Arcane Ward.

Wanting to clear the air with Shanolia, Koll follows her up to the roof. He sneaks behind her to see what she is up to. She has come up to the roof to eat; she will not remove her mask in front of anybody. When she does, Koll averts his eyes out of respect and moves farther away before he announces his presence.

"Hello, Shanolia," he says. "I wanted you to know that I harbour no ill feelings about earlier. It is my own fault for getting us mixed up with the Tower Wolves in the first place. I should have said something about Vivicus, but I had no idea that you had spotted him. I thought it best to stay silent, so as not to draw attention to him. However, I don't think an alliance with them is necessarily a bad thing. I thought you, more so than the others, could perhaps...benefit...from knowing them."

Shanolia does not speak, so he continues, "I think we are alike in many ways, you and I. Both of us are at home in the darkness. I suppose I wanted to say that you can trust me."

Shanolia remains silent. She is mortified and caught off guard. Out of the corner of his eye Koll sees her scrambling for the square of cloth she uses as a mask.

"You could show me your face." says Koll, "and it would stay a secret. I don't know what you hide under there - your identity, some kind of scar or worse, or perhaps you hide your beauty. It matters not to me. I will be your friend, if you so wish."

Shanolia sighs. She stands, holding her mask in one hand and her crepe in the other. "I suppose you all will see eventually, there is no benefit to remaining hidden. You may look." Her face is a mess of wrinkled and melted skin, her teeth showing where once there were beautiful cheeks. It has almost a liquid look; as if, even now, it's still melting from her skull.

Koll looks on Shanolia unperturbed and with sympathy in his eyes. "All of us suffer, some more than others. I will not give you pity, for often there is nothing worse. Nor will I pretend that you have not suffered. But I will do all I can to help you heal. I will listen if you wish to tell me how this happened to you."

"Do you recall Flint? The Goliath smith from yesterday's activities? Ten years ago; ten years, three months, six days ago, we were inseparable. Best friends, he and I. After a job went south and his son was killed, he pinned the blame on my shoulders. We fought, and being a Goliath he could easily throw my small form around like a ragdoll. He threw me against a table holding a cauldron containing powerful acid. I managed to get away, but his abuse will haunt me until the day I walk with Lolth."

Koll has heard Shanolia mention Lolth before, and is curious. He knows very little of the deity, but the name perturbs him somewhat. "Tell me about Lolth."

"Lolth is the only Goddess who did not turn her back to me in my time of isolation. I already so closely resembled her children the Drow, all I needed was a nudge. I took up the blade and I fight in her name, that one day I may see my name restored to it's former glory. That I might..." She begins to choke up slightly.

"Sorry, you don't need to tell me everything. Perhaps we can just sit in silence. I hope you will feel that your time of isolation is at an end." Koll will sit with Shanolia.

Shanolia sits, fighting back tears, and unwraps her crepe once more to finish it. After a while, she says, "Not a word of what you saw, to anyone."

Koll looks at her. "Promise."

Woe wakes again very early. After 6 hours of sleep (at around 4.30), she gets out of bed and puts on her common clothes. She will again head to the ground floor and take a piece of paper with her as well as some ink. She will sit on the desk that is right next to the stairs and write a letter to her grandfather, something she hasn't done in a very long time. Truth be told, she is not even sure that he is still alive.

She will sit until she sees Whistler walk past maybe an hour later. She will ask him to post her letter. Then Woe will brew coffee for him and tea for herself and convince him to sit with her for a bit before starting his day. The two will talk about nothing in particular, a bit about the weather in Baldur's Gate, with the constant fog and about how hard it is to keep a big house running smoothly. Woe is a good listener and very understanding of the hard task with not enough appreciation. By the end of their conversation, she will smile at Whistler, put a hand on his back and give him a friendly push to start work. She feels as though they have gotten to know each other just a little bit better.

Then she will return to her room, organise her things and keep an ear on the common room, to make sure to be able to talk to Lera once she wakes up. 

Zamar goes to bed after checking in on Lera and hearing of her plan. He settles in and looks skyward again. He is about to talk to Kara again, but looks hesitantly at the candle. He decides not to break tradition, but looks at the shadows closely while he speaks. “Hello, Kara,” he begins as usual. “Lera has taken a little one under her wing. It is our employer's little sister. Yes! I said employer. Honest, if dangerous, work. No more traveling from inn to inn performing for food. We have a home, of sorts. And friends. Well, allies at least, though I am fond of them." He goes on to recount the events of the day before ending in his customary way. "We will meet again. I hope you are well, beloved.” He sends a kiss skyward, extinguishes his light, and goes to sleep.

Zamar awakens a few hours later instinctively sensing something in the room. He peers into the darkness, but finds nothing. Suddenly he feels a hand in his hair. It is gentle, but alarming. Before he can react, the presence is gone as quickly as it came. He whispers, "Can you hear me?" and immediately feels foolish. It takes a long time for him to sleep again. His sleep is fitful, but eventual he does get rest. 

Morning comes. He rises and uses prestidigitation to clean and dress. His face wears an uneasy look as he decides what to do. Hopefully, Lera is not ready to go out just yet. He needs to go talk to Whistler. He throws on his gear and his armor and heads out to find the Kenku Major Domo.