Shanolia walks over toward three barrels stacked between two of the small sleeping areas (top right/middle), team names seeming childish and unnecessary at the current moment. With a sigh she pulls her final candle from her pouch and lights it, setting it on the ground before her and sitting cross-legged. Closing her eyes, she seems to enter a trance, closing herself off from the others in the room.

Woe steps into the room. Suddenly everything feels weird and wrong. She walks to the bed on the far right, mostly hidden behind many crates and sits down. She thinks of her own room, maybe a 20 minute walk from here, and wishes she was there. She is tired from the day and doesn't want to have to clean or have to use an unfamiliar bathroom. I wonder what this guy has planned for us. What he is really after. Then she lies down and closes her eyes for just a minute, while she listens to Lera and Perrin throwing team names around...

After a while, she will stand up, mumble "good night" to the others and close the door behind her. 

Koll looks about the place they are now to call home. A dungeon, he thinks with a sardonic smile. Indeed, it is not too far removed from where he had spent the previous five years of his life. As long as they do not lock the door then he could see this becoming a fine base of operations for their group. He pokes about amongst the clutter as he imagines how the space could look if cleaned up. Finding nothing of interest, he thinks about what they should name their group.

He says to everyone else, "To me it doesn't matter what we call ourselves. We will define whatever name we choose; the name will not define us. However, I like the Red Stone Whisperers. Obviously because our team had red stones, but red stones could also be a metaphor for cherry pits. I think 'whisperers' is apt because it seems to me that we as a group prefer to use cunning, stealth and influence rather than brute force. Again, I'm good with whatever we decide. I will see you all in the morning."

With that he retires to a room to meditate. As he does so, he feels a connection with his inner spiritual force, his ki, like he has never felt before. To him it is a sign that he is on the right path. He then lies down, closing his eyes to sleep.

"I love that name, Koll,” Lera nodded. “Goodnight new friends," she beamed at everyone before claiming a bed. Her father's room was the next closest one, so as soon as she was done setting her stuff down she made her way to him. "Goodnight dad," she whispered into his ear as she squeezed him tightly. "Thanks for this. And everything."

Her new party mates in bed, Lera began to wander the halls. Careful to avoid the east wing, it took her half an hour to find what she was looking for. The building was much bigger than she expected, but eventually the sorcerer found the ladder. Or at least, what was left of it.

10 feet of wall stood between her and the elusive roof. Lera took a few seconds to mold the earthen walls, creating a bunch of crescent moon shaped handholds all the way up. It took her a few seconds, and she slipped more than a couple times, but eventually Lera made it all the way to the top and went through the hatch and onto the roof.

The stars were never quite as bright in cities, but they were still up there, twinkling down at her. “Hey mom,” she whispered to one of the stars. It wasn’t the brightest, or the biggest, but it was an average sized pinpoint of light that she could find regardless of where she was. To the sorcerer, it was her star. “I had a crazy day today, and I made a bunch of new friends. You’re never going to believe...”

Lera proceeded to tell the night sky all about her day, not leaving out a single detail. She talked for a while, then just sat and listened to the quiet noises of a city mostly asleep. “Thanks for the talk,” she smiled back up at the stars, yawning. “I’ll see you tomorrow.”

Lera made her way back down, not getting to her bed until close to 5 in the morning. She curled up into a little ball on her brand new bed, clutching her new trinket tightly in one hand. Sleep followed quickly for the young mage, filled with dreams of adventure.

Woe doesn't sleep very well. The room doesn't provide any air and it feels sticky. She opens the door to get a draft in. When she hears Lera return to the room, she decides to get up and start the day at 5am. She will get up and look around the room and also walk upstairs. If she doesn't encounter anyone, she will sit down in a room or a nook where the first light of the day shines in and do some writing and reading. 

Zamar lets the others choose their rooms. As they wander about, claiming space, he repeatedly casts prestidigitation, clearing dust and cobwebs. Wherever Lera is is home. As he thinks this, she flings herself into his arms. “Goodnight, Dad,” she whispers and hugs him tightly. “Thanks for this. And everything.” He hugs her back. “You are welcome, child. Now get some rest.” 

He smiles to himself as he walks to his room. “She didn’t call me ‘pops’,” he thinks. After a quick magical cleaning, he climbs into bed and looks up to the ceiling. “Hello, Kara,” he says. “Lera and I had quite a day. You would have been proud. Of both of us. I am giving her room and she is growing.” He continues to recount the day. “I pray I am doing the right thing. We will meet again. I hope you are well, beloved.” He sends a kiss skyward, extonguishes his light, and goes to sleep.

Having gone to bed at 3 in the morning Perrin does not wake up the next day close to 10 am. When he does awake the first thing Perrin does is says his prayers to Yondalla. He makes sure to include some extra prayers for the protection of this house and his new home. Afterwards, Perrin heads towards the kitchen; it takes a little bit of time but he eventually finds it. It looks quite big and impressive but like it hasn't been used in ages. Sighing a little at not being able to make something fresh he'll head back to the common room and pull the eight hand pies out of his bag so everyone has something to eat. Seeing some paper and ink on the center table he'll take some and begin writing down his list for Whistle. My room having some stairs that lead up to my bed, kitchen fully stocked and clean (see back for a separate list of specific ingredients), someplace to create a fire down here it got cold last night and a general cleaning of the area. The back of the list has, of course, everything he needs to make some cherry pies but also ingredients for making stuff like muffins and pancakes. You also find a variety of cheese on the list, eggs, sausage, small game meat (think rabbit), and bread. Feeling satisfied with the list he'll find Mr. Whistle's room but hearing him "snore" Perrin decides to give him the list later. Not wanting to explore too much and get lost Perrin will just don his armor and such. in case they need to go out today and wait in the common area for the others to rise. 

Singe falls out of bed, he was sleeping too close to the edge. Waking, he straightens himself and leaves the tiny room. "Good morning Perrin." Singe looks slightly disheveled, he's still in his clothes from yesterday.

"Mornin' to ya. The kitchen is not runnin' so here have some pie from last night. If Shanolia is up we can have that talk before the others rise." Perrin says, nodding to the meditating elf.

“Do you have any coffee?” Lera yawns as she exits her room. She’s been awake for two hours, but her hair is a mess of strawberry blonde.

"Sorry I don't lass. I'll add that to the list. I have some pie if you want some." Perrin replies.

"Already had some," Lera mutters dejectedly. "But it was really good! Like, the best thing I’ve ever eaten."

"Oh, she's not asleep," Nodding to Lera, Singe grabs a pie and walks over to Shanolia, "Excuse me, Perrin needs to talk to us." He says through a mouthful of pie.

Shanolia opens one eye, watching Singe eat his pie for a moment. "I heard, and I am aware of what he will say."

"Then let's get it over with, shall we?" Singe walks back to the table. With a sigh, Shanolia stands. Kicking over the remains of the candle, she follows Singe toward the table where Perrin is waiting.

Singe motions for Perrin to speak.

"Before I start would you like some pie Shanolia?" Perrin inquires

"No. I believe I will survive." Shanolia's mask probably makes it hard to eat.

"Okay. Well...Well I'm sure you know what I want to talk about. Yesterday on our way to the Bard Competition you two killed those men. Those innocent lives." Perrin lets out a deep sigh. Singe squirms in his chair.

"I know that you guys don't know my story like I don't know yours but, my story has taught me that all life is sacred. That everyone has a soul that is redeemable. And that we cannot just kill everyone who opposes us. Because doing so doesn't breed peace. It doesn't breed a better tomorrow. It breeds a place where the strong can steal from the weak and burn down the houses of those who oppose him.." Perrin is starting to speak more quickly the more he talks. Singe nods along.

"That’s some deep stuff." Lera nods solemnly, not realizing she’s sitting in on a very serious conversation that she probably shouldn’t be there for.

"I understand your words, Halfling, for I am seeking redemption myself. However, should I find myself in a situation where I feel it is my life or theirs, I will choose mine. As I feel you would as well." Shanolia says.

"And I know just killing him would be easy. So, easy. But then what are you. No, better than him. Violence just breeds more violence. And as much as you want to swear an oath of revenge you simply cannot. What would they think if you did? You'd be no better than him. And...and...and..." Perrin doesn't know what to say after this its a little obvious that he has lost himself in some sort of debate he's had with himself in the past.

"Perrin," Singe tries to bring the halfling's attention back to earth. "I killed that man for no reason. One moment I thought I was doing the right thing, the next, he was dead. I have a feeling Tymora's going to get back at me for it. But I want you to know that I won't ever do it again."

"I have been on the receiving end of your 'justice'. I have been imprisoned, exiled, ridiculed, and maimed. I apologize for my lack of sympathy for those who would drag my kind to the edge of death, only to lock us in a cage." The pitch of her voice raises slightly, sounding feminine for the first time since you met. When she calms down, she continues. "This once, I will apologize; there may have been another way. In the future, however, I will not hesitate - and you will find it best not to stand in my way." Singe frowns at this and looks at Perrin.

Lera's jaw drops as the weight of the conversation suddenly hits her. "Woah, that’s... woah," she mutters. "Ok, maybe, in the future, Singe can agree to try not to kill anyone for no reason, Shanolia can agree to at least try to let us use other ways of problem solving before killing people, and Perrin can agree to try not to be too judgmental?"

"I can agree to that." Singe says distantly, waiting for Perrin to respond.

Perrin comes out of his head when he hears Lera words. "I'm sorry everyone. I’m trying not to be judgmental. I...I have my reasons. I can agree to not have something like this again if we can not kill if we don’t have have to. I’m sorry for this Singe and Shanolia." Perrin then stands up and leaves to go towards his room. Shanolia scoffs and shakes her head, returning to her corner. She curses in an unfamiliar language. Singe frowns. "That did not go how I expected it to." He mutters before pulling out his book to prepare his spells for the day.

Koll had been awake, meditating on the floor of his small room, when he overheard the conversation between Perrrin, Singe, Shanolia and Lera. He goes into the common room and begins some of his regular exercises, moving gracefully through the forms of his martial arts.

"There are ways to fight and ways not to fight," he adds to the conversation, moving fluidly and striking the air with his fists. "It is all about balance and circular motion, using your opponents energy against them." His arms wheel complex patterns. "I, too, strive for peace and have no wish to ever kill again. But I know that there are situations when it may be unavoidable, times when it may be necessary in order to prevent further harm, especially if it means protecting the innocent.

Shanolia, I sense great anger within you, and perhaps with a very good reason. If you cling to that anger, though, you will only do more harm to yourself than those upon whom you seek revenge. Finding peace and clarity within yourself is of greater importance. It is hard to understand that, I know. I was angry once, too, and it is a demon that is difficult to let go.  I am not perfect, and my journey to enlightenment is only just beginning, but  I can teach you the ways of ki, if you so wish. That is all I will say on the matter." 

He finishes with a high spinning kick, soundless except for the rustle of his clothes. He clasps his hands and bows.

"So, have we decided on a name?" He looks to Singe, eyebrow raised.

Lera was awoken far earlier than she would have liked by the feeling of something soft tickling her bare feet. "You're awake!" A familiar voice said cheerily, far too cheerily. Didn't they know it was early? The sorcerer blinked several times as she sat up, revealing her alarm clock to be an excited Polly hiding something behind her back.

“Goo’ mornin,” Lera slurred blearily, fighting the urge to pull a pillow over her head. Instead, she attempted to rub the sleep from her eyes. Her strawberry blonde hair stuck up at odd angles, and she was still in Woe's robes from last night. The sorcerer wiped away a bit of drool from the side of her lip with the back of her hand.

Polly pulled out one of the hand pies out from behind her back and said, "I brought you breakfast!" The young girl hopped on the bed and offered it to Lera. It was obvious that she had already eaten one for herself because her hands and face were sticky with cherries.

“Thanks Pols,” Lera tries her best to smile at the little girl, taking the pie and beginning to snack on it. “Xanathar’s pants, this is amazing,” she gasped after the first bite. Perrin really did know his pies! “Did you have a good night’s sleep?” She asked between bites of pies.

"Yeah!" Poly bounced around on the bed. "I don't think I've ever had so much fun before. I was so tired, I don't even remember coming home!" She licked some residual pie from a finger. "I'm so glad you're going to be living here with me!"

“I’m so glad I’m going to be living here too! We’ll have such fun,” Lera savored the cherry pie. “So what’s the plan for today?”

"I don't think E has any plans for you today," Polly said, scrunching up her face in thought. "So you can do whatever you want!"

I sure hope what I want includes a nap, Lera thought to herself. “Well, what would you want?” She asked.

"I wanna explore the city!" Polly bounced happily, then stopped and began to frown. "But E wouldn't like that, and Mr. Whistler wouldn't let me go."

“Perhaps I’ll ask if I can take you out,” Lera shrugged. “I have some friends I need to return a favor to.”

Polly frowned at Lera. "I don't know," she doubted. "I don't think they'll like that."

“It never hurts to ask,” the aasimar smiled kindly. “And if not, perhaps we can have some fun inside. I have barely explored this place.” Lera yawned a little, but was determined to at least try to hang out with her friends.

"The storage room has all kinds of cool old boxes! We could explore in there!" Mordenkainen knew, where was this child getting her energy from?

“That sounds wonderful!” Lera finishes off the pie and licked her fingers clean. “Thank you for the breakfast.

"You're welcome!" She hopped off the bed and gives Lera a grin. "Come find me later," she called over her shoulder as she skipped out of the room.

“I will!” Lera called back before flopping back down on the bed. After only three hours of sleep, there was no way in the Nine Hells that she was going to remain conscious. However, the bit of sugar and excitement prevented her from truly falling asleep. Lera napped on and off for the following two hours, but the rustling of other souls awake at 10 am coaxed her out of bed. She changed into her own clothes before exiting her room, however, leaving Woe's in a messy heap on her bed.

Lera hadn't expected to sit in on such a... heavy conversation. It was way too early for moral quandaries. After poking her nose a little too far into where it didn't belong, she decided it might be wise to just sit and listen for awhile. "You know, I haven't had any caffeine yet today, and I think that may help this conversation. Or at least, life in general," she said, her voice not acknowledging a modicum of the tension in the room. She rose to her feet with a smile. "Who wants to go on a quest to find coffee with me? We can talk about names just as easily there as we can here..."

When Woe is sitting in an alcove waiting for the sun to come up so she can do some reading, she hears a familiar voice: 

"You're going to need your sleep at some point," Whistler says as he sees you sitting in the moonlight. "I know the rooms aren't much, but that whole area is there for you all to customize to your liking. It once was a dungeon, but you can turn it into whatever you like." "Thanks Whistler! Sometimes sleep just doesn't come, you know? I am sure I'll sleep better tomorrow night, when I am getting used to my new place." Woe replies. 

Then she has more questions: "Whistler, would you be able to provide armor and weapons for all of us? I would very much like to upgrade my leather armor to a studded leather armor. Also, I would need a set of common/traveler's clothes. Also, that modron, that does it actually DO?" "The weapons and armor will be a bit difficult to get." Whistler scratched his beat with a claw. "Funds are low at the moment, and you'll need to do a mission or two to remedy that. I suspect, however, after last night's show, missions will not be hard to find. As for the modron, it's just a pretty trinket. Probably worth about 50 gold pieces."

"What about you, Whistler, don't you ever sleep? How long have you been in the services of the Lord?" "I sleep when I can." He chuckles. "I've been with Mr. Viscardi for... a couple years now."

"And do you like working for him? You know, it is always good to hear an insider opinion before starting employment!" Whistler blinks a few times at Woe. "Mr. Viscardi is a good and fair employer. I have been given many opportunities while in his company." He blinked a few more times. "I might even venture to call him a friend." (at this point Woe listens specifically to hear if he is speaking the truth [rolled insight 19]). 

Woe feels that he is absolutely genuine. "Thank you for sharing your insights. Do you know of any specific adventures that await us? Is there anything expected of us today? Otherwise I would like to run a couple of errands today if that's alright. Do you know at what time we can expect Lord Viscardi to visit us?" "Today is free, so please feel free to hoi about your business." Mr. Whistler nodded. "Do be back for dinner. I believe Mr. Viscardi would like to get to know you all better."

At this, Woe remembers that she made Singe promise to show up for dinner with his family. She will have to let him know that he won't be able to make it....

"Thank you, Whistler, it is good to know that we'll be seeing more of you too."

Then Woe sinks back into the cushions. Maybe she should try to get some more sleep. So she will take her things and return to her room. When she hears the others discuss the last night, she'll slowly get back up and change into her fine clothes. I really need to get clothes that are more suitable for this kind of business. She thinks to herself. She finds Koll just finishing his exercises when she exits the room and sits down at the table with the others: "Good morning everybody! I am happy to go out with you, Lera, I will also have to run a couple of errands, pass by my own room and bring some more things. We can try and find coffee on the way. And maybe a barrel of ale, this basement keeps fresh, it would be a perfect store room!"

Singe looks at Perrin's closed door, then turns to Koll. "Unfortunately, we have not. Your suggestion of Red Stone Whisperers seems viable, but I worry it might imply subterfuge. I would suggest The Cerasorum Company. As a word it embraces a whispery quality but it still has substance. It's a rough translation of 'cherry stones' in Elvish. It's vague enough to mean anything and doesn't give any connotations. However, this is a conversation we'll have in later in the day." Singe snaps his book closed and retrieves his suit jacket from his room. "I've got some errands to run and a dinner to attend. Hopefully I can sneak out before supper." 

"Oh, Singe, I have bad news for you! Even though we have the day to ourselves, it seems Lord Viscardi will want to see us for dinner... maybe you can see your sister for lunch? She'll probably be upset if you don't show..." Then Woe tells the rest of her interaction with the Kenku to everyone at the table.

"Do you know where Mr. Whistler is? I may be able to sneak in supper or dinner perhaps afternoon tea, depending on when the dinner is." Singe appears to be recalculating his route.

"I can hear some noise coming from upstairs, that might be him!"

About two hours past before Perrin leaves his room. The only thing he is sure of right now is that he needs to find a halfling pantheon shrine. He seeks out Mr.Whistle to hopefully find one. Upon finding him Perrin hands Mr. Whistle the list, which now includes coffee on it, he made and asks him "Are there any hafling Pantheons or Temples within the city?" 

"There are hundreds of shrines in Baldur's Gate. I'm sure one of them would be a halfling pantheon. I am not familiar with them though, so I can't say for sure." the Kenku answers.

"Can you at least point me to the district that has the most shrines?" Perrin asks.

"The best suggestion I have is to ask a halfling." His head-feathers flare up as he says this, sad that he can't help you further.

"It's fine thanks for your help. I'll return by dinner." With that Perrin will head into the city to wander around and find a hafling shrine.

There just so happens to be a small shop across the street that sells furniture ran by a family of stouts. Within an hour Perrin himself before a shrine to Yondalla. He'll kneel down in front of a statue of her and begin reciting her dogma

"Those who seek to live in accordance with the way of the Provider will be blessed with a cornucopia of riches. Seek peace and comfort, for a life lived with both is true wealth. Although violence should never be welcomed, the Protector's aegis will extend to those willing to fiercely defend their home and community. Lead through example, and know the activities of those you lead so that you can help shoulder their burdens when need be. Treasure your family, for your parents gave you life and your children are your future. Care for the aged and the weak, for you never know when you may be one of the strong laid low."

Perrin finished he recitation by leaving a little bit of his gold at the base of the statue. He cannot help but notice that a family is leaving the shrine and one of the children are sobbing while the mother tries to comfort her with a walking hug. Perrin wishes he had a pie to give her. Perrin then begins to speak to the statue telling her of his struggle. Of how he wishes he knew what happened to his parents. Did Lord Embree kill them in the fire or are they in his dungeon? He wishes he wasn't tempted to just kill him. That he could just think in the same way Shanolia does and just want to kill him and get it over with. But, he cannot do that. His Ma always taught him that violence isn't the answer. That violence only brings more violence. That you become what you despise when you attempt to kill what that is. That peace is the only way to bring about more peace. Finally, Perrin asks Yondalla for guidance. Guidance and strength. Perrin knows that it is up to him to protect his friends not only from the enemies on the battlefield but the ones in their hearts. That is a road that Perrin has traveled before so he asks for the Wisdom of what to say and the Strength to say it. 

With all of his prayers said Perrin just stand at the shrine looking up at it. He decides that when the sun starts to come down it is time to return home and attend this dinner. Let's hope it is not as tense as breakfast was. 

//Rolled an Investigation (Charisma) to find Temple: 19. Gave 5 gold to temple// 

When Perrin goes to his room and they finish talking around the table, Woe also gets ready to go into the city. She'll quickly talk to Lera: "I think Perrin included coffee on his list of food items to be ordered by Mr. Whistler, so we won't need to buy that anymore! Unfortunately, I have an appointment I need to keep this afternoon. Maybe we can head out together some other time? I would love to show the city to you and your father! But he seems still fast asleep!"

Then Woe heads out towards the upper city via Baldur's Gate, then she makes her way to Duke Eltan's house... When she arrives, she announces her arrival with one of the servants, asking to see Duke Eltan as soon as possible and that she has important news to tell him, but not much time. While she is waiting, she makes her way to the kitchen, talking to Nixon, a kitchen boy that she has befriended in the last years while working for the Duke. She is even paying for his education since a few months. 

Woe only has a few uncomfortable moments with Nixon before she feels she might be called by the Duke. "Hi, Woe!!" Nixon hugs her with the excitement of a young child. "How are you? Have you heard, a noble child has come down with some sort of sickness!" "Yes, I actually saw the girl just yesterday, at the gate!" Nixon shakes his head. "No, it is a boy" Then he explains the symptoms, which seem to be very similar to the girl Woe and Singe witnessed at Baldur's Gate earlier yesterday. Nixon is happy to share more gossip: "Luckily, Luckbringers of Tymora were able to help the child, but he still remains catatonic in his bed." This must have been days ago, Woe estimates. But when Nixon actually listens to Woe and realises that it has happened to another child, he is shocked by the news... but Woe can easily imagine he's excited to spread the gossip. Woe hugs him again. "Remember, I will be away for a while. Here is 1 GP, use it well! And here is the key to my town house. Please go down twice a week and water the plants. You can use it too, if you need to stay over night. But please take good care of everything. I hope to find you well when I return."

When Woe arrives back to his foyer after a few minutes she is left waiting an uncomfortable amount of time. Duke Eltan's estate is vast. It spreads out over much of the Southern Upper City acting as residence for his employees and vast entourage. He seems deep in conversation with one of his servants when he finally enters the foyer. "Woe," he says. Addressing you by name is a good sign. "Be quick, please." He gestures for her to follow him as he continues his walk.

"Duke Eltan", Woe curtsies, "Firstly, I have some news on one of our ambassadors, who was presumed dead: Ambassador Singe Harown was the head ambassador to the province of Tethyr, Talginl with junior ambassador named Owyn. They found out that the baron was hiding Ghouls - and many of them. They even observed them feeding upon the flesh of what looked like a human women. The junior ambassador died that night at the baron’s dinner when he enquired about what was happening outside, he fell over, cockroaches spilling out of his mouth. Ambassador Harown ran - it took him about two months to make it back. At the tower of diplomacy, Chief Ambassador Elama Caphaxath suggested that he take a leave of absence.... (the baron had reported that both had died). He is part of the new adventuring guild formed by Lord Viscardi last night. I am also part of the winning team, we will have dinner with the Lord tonight."

"Yes, yes." The duke says as he walks, "What of this new Lord? What have you learned of him?"

"Well, he is here with his little sister, living in an old warehouse of sorts with what was previously a dungeon in the basement. That is where they have arranged living quarters for us. It is located here (I show it to him on a map). He is very good looking, and seems genteel. Well liked by his employees as far as I can tell. The only interesting thing seems to be a slipup Needle (the guy from the Baldur's mouth newspaper) made by saying that this treasure hunt was rather an 'experiment'... But we weren't able to find out any more yet."

"I don't imagine this experiment of his will yield much," He says. "But I want to know if any of the other Patriars hire your group." He stops for a moment to look Woe in the eyes, "You've done well to get your group into this guild, Woe. But if this Lord poses any threat, I need to know. Try to get close to him," he adds. "Use this sister of his if you have to."

"What are your worries about this man, Duke Eltan? The more I know what you are looking for, the easier it will be for me to find it!" Woe tries to get more information from the Duke. "Do you know what experiment he is trying to do?"

"Another get rich scheme, I suppose," He replies. "And the less you know about our current operations, the better, young butterfly. Soon you'll see. I imagine he's going to send you somewhere remote soon.... steel yourself."

"I'll be ready! I also heard of two cases of children at the court getting sick, the first a boy, a few days back, he seems to be recovering. But we also encountered a girl at the Gate yesterday, she seemed very sick and I am sure she will die. They almost looked possessed! Have you heard anything?" Then she remembers: "Oh, and how do you want me to get word to you once we're sent on operations?" 

"I've heard of these illnesses. Worry not though, our children are safe." He smiles, "We've got some of the best priests in our estate and they've assured me that these are isolated incidents." He thinks a moment on your last question. "Have you not gotten strong enough to learn the simplest of spells yet?" He sighs. "See Signore.... he will provide you with a sending stone. Do not, under any circumstances, allow anyone to see you using it."

 Woe gets the strong feeling that the Duke has no idea what can be done with spells and how magic works. "I indeed have learned a variety of spells! But nothing that would allow me to send messages such long distances. I am sorry. But thank you for your help. I will report back as soon as I find out more. Thank you for placing your trust in me."

With this Woe leaves the Duke's office and heads across the courtyard to see the wizard. Signore is in his tower, appropriately named, "Signore's Tower." He's been known to be Duke Eltan's personal wizard and is quite the irritable wizard at that. He rolls his eyes as you enter, "Let me guess.... love potion to help on your silly quest to seduce some silly lord?" 

Woe smiles over her whole face: "Signore, my treasure, how are you? Have you forgotten me?" Woe kisses him on both cheeks. He is obviously shaken by the hello. Physical contact is almost weird to him. "Yes.... Woe, is it? How could I forget that figure as it walks away. What is it you need?" "I made it into the new adventuring guild of that Lord Viscardi! And I learned a new spell! I can now disguise myself! I admire your work so much! Also, Duke Eltan sent me to get a sending stone, so I can report back once we're sent on missions." "Oh, wonderful," he says. "Another person to wake me up at night." He hobbles over to a closet by a set of spiraling stairs and pulls a small stone from within. "Please use it sparingly," he says as he hands it to Woe. It's at this time that a servant rushes in to his chambers. Signore rolls his eyes and says, "Let me guess... another love potion to seduce some lord?" The servant blushes and walks over to Woe. He hands her a garnet set in platinum. "The Lord Eltan wants to thank you," he says. Woe nods her head. "Send the Duke my gratitude!" The servant then nods to Signore before backstepping his way out of the tower. Woe turns the gem in her hands and loses all the color from her face as she estimates the gem's worth to be 200GP. She hasn't gotten any bonus this big since starting her work for the Duke. 

Before leaving the tower Woe tells the wizard: "Don't worry, I will only send messages when they are truly urgent. And I'll try to keep to daylight hours. Also, would you have a health potion to support me during my operations for Duke Eltan?" "Better than a love potion," he mumbles under his breath. "If it'll get me the alone time I so desire, here." He rummages through a cupboard above a small table of alchemy supplies and retrieves a small vial with red liquid. He hands it to you and looks at you expectantly. When he hands her a potion of healing, she hugs him quickly. "Signore, I will come and visit you again soon! Oh, have you heard of these kids? Kids from the upper city, they seem to become sick, they almost look posessed!" Woe lists the full syptoms.

"That's silly," he says. "People worry over the smallest things. In my day, we'd just leech ourselves and it'd solve all our problems. Anyway, I don't have time to worry about children all over Baldur's Gate. I'm busy enough as it is." He accepts the hug, and for a moment you think you see a small smile. It's gone when you look again. "Now off with you! Don't you have adventures to go on?"

Woe waves goodbye and makes her way out as quickly as she can...

She then steps by her small town house to arrange everything for an extended time of absence, she will make sure everything is looked and stored. She will take all food with her. She will also take a painting of her grandparents farm. And another sketch depicting a yeth hound. I am coming for you. I will get my revenge, she thinks to herself. 

Woe will then go out and change her gem into money. After realising, that she has been doing the treasure hunt in fine clothes, embroidered with gold and with small gem ornaments, she realises that she will need very different things for going on missions. She will buy a studded leather armor and also three sets of clothes, one common, two travellers clothes and a costume set. She will also buy a light crossbow. Also a dungeoneer's pack and a bed roll.  

When she is finished, she knows it is getting late. While she is rushing back through the city, she thinks of Singe and how his sister will probably be most disappointed not to see her. But she knows that he wouldn't have wanted her under any circumstances to join their family dinner, so she just sends a mental apology to Paela. Once returned to their new joint home and Woe will change into her fine clothes and make sure she looks great. She will cast disguise self to look 15 years younger. She'll also splash some fresh and fruity smelling perfume on her. 

Singe climbs the stairs to find Mr. Whistler pouring over estate documents.
"Excuse me Mr. Whistler, when will dinner be tonight?"
"Slightly before dusk," he replies, looking out the window. It appears as though the thick fog of Baldur's Gate has decided to make an appearance today. He sighs as he see it. "Have you all decided on any improvements to your rooms? I can have a member of the carpenters guild here tomorrow."
"Not now, I have more pressing matters to attend to. Thank you."

At about 12, Singe makes his way to Glenfellow's Folds to let Paela and Toddrick know that it might be an early dinner. As he asks them to change their plans, they mention they'll have to reschedule with the whole family. They seem quite perturbed.
"I thought it was going to be a small gathering! Who's on the guest list?"
"It is small!" Paela replies, "Just the family!"
"Who? We have a canoe load of family that despise each other. Marigold and Wes? Mum? Dad? ...Alton?"
"Everyone!" She takes three steps towards you with a fist raised, "And you better bring her... Or else... or else.... I'll tell them about the time you flamed your own sheets!"
"You wouldn't!"
Her face takes a serious tone, her cheeks particularly red. "She's perfect Singe, perfect!"
"She's twice my age!" Singe quickly pivots "You invited both Mum and Dad? Wait," The gears of Singe's mind are turning. "This is a 'You're Not Dead' party!"
"You were in the paper, Singe. How could we not worry!" Tears start to stream down her eyes. "They said everyone... everyone was dead. You can't just let everyone think you're some corpse."
Singe stops, he breathes in, "I got a job. It's not exactly the most cushiony but it pays. I have a meeting with my employer at 7:00. I can not miss it. Can not. I can come for most of dinner, but I'll have to leave early. If he keeps it short I can be back for supper. Does that sound good?"
She looks almost defeated, "And her?"
Singe smiles, "I wouldn't tease my little sister that way."
Her eyes widen, "Oh you better bring her." She scrunches her fist up in a little ball. "If you can't stay the whole time it's the least you can do!"
"I'll ask, I make no promises." Singe picks up his sister and spins her around in a bear hug, "I'll let Marigold, Mum, and Dad know, Alton will have to endure," Just before he leaves he turns back to Paela, "I blame all the family drama tonight on you."
She bites her lip to prevent herself from smiling. As Singe leaves he hears her whisper to Toddrick, his face agape, "And this is why you married me...."

"Of all the people to share fate with, I get the pacifists." Shanolia mumbles to herself in Abyssal, walking back to where she had meditated.

After picking up the mess of melted candle wax she sets off in search of somewhere private to eat, eventually coming across a storage room with a ladder to the roof. The catch? The ladder was busted - apparently Mr. Whistler hasn't gotten around to fixing it just yet. With a sigh, Shanolia pulls a piton and some rope from her bag and rigs a way up for herself.

Once on the roof, Shanolia finds a quiet spot where she won't be visible from the ladder and sits, removing her mask and pulling a bag of jerky and dried fruit from her bag. Slowly, she begins to eat.

*************************************************************

After some time, she notices the figure of a familiar woman walking - slighlty wobbly - out of Lord Viscardi's chamber; she was the Trueblood from the tavern last night. Not one to worry about other people's business, Shanolia simply resumes eating and pondering her new allies as the Trueblood leaves through a back exit, careful to avoid contact with the others.

Singe leaves Glenfellows’ Folds, heading to his mum's house. Singe smiles as he approaches the home he spent his childhood in. He knocks on the door, once, twice, three times; no response. He fumbles through his pockets, finding the key to the house. Singe unlocks the door and walks in, the house is silent. "Mum?" Singe shouts. A dog, large to a halfling, runs up to Singe. "Hello Mr. Tobiason! Is your mum at the shrine? Probably having lunch with the ladies." Singe scratches behind Tobiason's ears and closes the door behind him. "Let's go get my stuff." Singe goes up the stairs, taking the stairs two at a time. He ducks into the doorway to his room. The room is tiny and tidy. The bed is made so no sheets would be pulled up when the legs went over the side and most of the clothes have been put away; the suits seem to kneel. Singe brings out the chest he had found his stuff in a tenday ago and begins to fold his clothes on one side of the trunk. On the other side, he places his notes, books, and, triple checking the lid, his ink pots. Putting his bag down, Singe lifts the chest, heaving all the way down stairs.

Singe writes a note to his mum. Mum, I'm not dead. The interview for the adventurers' guild went until way past midnight and the lord provided us with living quarters! I moved my stuff out, my key is under the door. I will be at Peala's for dinner, but I can only stay for dinner; I have a meeting with my new employer at 7:00. If I can, I'll be back for supper. In short, perhaps be there early. Love, Singe

Singe leaves the note on the kitchen table and grabs his pack from upstairs. As he leaves, locking the door, Singe pauses, he frowns. He opens the chest and removes the ink pots. He flags down someone who looks trustworthy and is willing to do a simple job for good pay. "I need you to send this trunk and these ink pots to Mr. Viscardi's estate near Blade and Stars. There should be a Kenku gentleman, tell him that the fire genasi would like this down in the common room." Getting an affirmative nod, Singe provides more specific directions and hands the man three silver pieces for his trouble.

Zamar sleeps in. He hears the activity out in the common room but does not emerge. He is still shaken by the vision from the night before. Should he tell someone about it? Perhaps he was merely tired. The excitement. The lateness. Surely that was it. When he finally comes out, he sees nobody is around. Serves him right. They must have gone on their errands for the day. He decides to go in search of Whistler to see what is up. Perhaps he could head into town and get the gem changed. Then everyone could get their cut and do some shopping.