Malachi smiles and leads you out of Mendax's rooms at the temple, across the eastern part of the lower city to the Elfsong Tavern, a large two story building with white stone walls and a brown tiled roof. You enter through the front door and see the tough stationed there nod to Malachi nonchalantly. You follow Malachi through the bustling main room and up the stairs to the second level. The second level is nicer than the floor below and that is reflected in the clientele as well, a few well coiffed heads turn to notice your motley band you pass. Malachi brings you to a door on the southern side of the building. Outside the door are two relaxed and unassuming men, a middle aged half-orc and lithe looking human with shoulder length brown hair. Despite their calm demeanor those of you with martial knowledge recognize these men as probably the most deadly you've seen since coming to Badur's Gate. The half-orc opens the door Mal. he says. Mal nods to the half orc Gormaught. and to the human Rigmar. the human smiles and says She's waiting for ya. You follow Malachi into a richly furnished private dining room, The head of an umber hulk decorates the wall behind the head of the table which is laid with cured meats, cheeses, breads, and several ewers of wine and pitchers of ale. Seated beneath the monster trophy is a perfectly average looking middle-aged woman with brown hair played by Maggie Gyllenhaal, she stands and smiles as you enter. Welcome, friends, Mendax, Vin, Con, and Kes! It's a pleasure to finally meet you in person. Please have a seat and pour yourselves a drink, we have much to discuss!
Keene smiles. It’s my business to know what’s going on in my city, Kestrell Bardson, and who is who. What we have to discuss is this; I know you killed Graddik. Now don’t worry, I’m not upset, far from it. Graddik was getting too big for his britches, becoming an active threat to me and my interests. If I had moved against him openly it might have made people choose sides. This way, a bolt to the gut turned rotten, he’ll be forgotten quick and easy and his replacement will be much more... amenable to my plans, Lors and I have an understanding you see. She looks to Con I hope you’ll be willing to let bygones be bygones, Mr. Danry. Now, you’re probably wondering how it is I know all this, and maybe it “being my business to know” won’t cut it as far as explanations go. Well, here’s my favorite part of any trick, the reveal; sorry, Vin and Mendax, it wasn’t Lathander’s divine will you lot carried out, it was mine. Keene leans back in her chair with a smile and drinks deeply from her glass, looking at you all in turn.
Con, obviously tense in such a dangerous encounter, shrugs and attempts to appear relaxed. If you can keep Lors on a tight leash, then you won't have any trouble from me. He still scowls darkly, looking down at the ground. One day,he thinks to himself, Lors won't have your protection. His fists clench at the thought.
At the 'reveal', he chuckles. You sure about that? Lathander's a tricky bastard - gets all sorts doing his will, whether they know it or not.
Mendax walks into the room and looks over at the spread, but declines imbibing on the food and drinks. He goes and stands at the back of one of the chairs and rests his hands on its back. As the woman talks and starts to speak to the truth about the visions Mendax's grip on the chair tightens, his knuckles turning white. Holding back his anger he lets her finish and then says to her staring straight into her eyes, "know this woman, that Lathander knows all and punishes those who sin against him and his words. I pray for you that his justice is swift when your time comes." Mendax loosens the grip on the chair and, closes his eyes and mutters a quick prayer, and then looks back at the woman and says, "now, why did you bring us all here? Graddik is dead, we did your bidding... unknowingly. What more do you want from us?"
Keene fixes Mendax with a steady look. I have gods enough to answer to when that times comes, but it's a ways off yet. In the mean time, see that you don't have to answer to me, dwarf. She maintains the look for a moment longer before relaxing a bit and continuing on. As for what I want from you, that is simple, the Flaming Fist has need of outside help, you four will join them. You are to head to the Basilisk Gate and meet with Captain Darmin Zodge, who will give you further orders. You will not mention my name to anyone, you will not mention the Guild to anyone. You will not be working for me, you will be working for the Flaming Fist, but you will be in my debt, which means I may call on you for information or for favors. You needn't worry about betraying the Fist, either, bribery is their stock and trade, you will simply be a part of my network. she pauses and takes a sip from her glass. Now, to the unpleasant part, should you betray me or my interests, it will become common knowledge that you four conspired to murder Graddik Fellwrought, a well loved and respected member of my guild, gods rest his soul. Oh, and before you get ideas of martyrdom, know that Racheal, Master Torbin, and several priests of Lathander will be implicated as well should you break my trust. But, I'm sure it won't come to that. Stramman! she calls out to the next room and a tall half elf with blond hair and mismatched eyes (played by David Bowie) walks in. This is Stramman, my mage, he will contact you if I need to speak with you and pass along any messages I see fit. Stramman smiles and Mendax, you realize that this is the "Lathander" who appeared in your dream. Stramman remains silent as Keene continues speaking. Ah, I see that you've deduced the method the messages will take! Strange things, dreams! Well, that's all settled! I hope that we can all remain friends! Welcome to the real Baldur's Gate! Keene raises her glass in a toast and BLACKOUT
The camera pans down from the dawn sky and swoops low over the water coming up to the city of Baldur's Gate.
A voice is heard (its Ian McKellen!)
Welcome to Baldur’s Gate, a veritable nest of rats and vipers clinging to the rocky slopes overlooking the Chionthar River. From their high perches in the Upper City, the local nobles — known as patriars — gaze down with veiled contempt upon the common rabble in the grimy Lower City, which hugs the foggy harbor. The whole of Baldur’s Gate reeks of blood, crime, and opportunity. One can easily fathom why pirates and traders are drawn to this place like flies to a carcass.
Following the river farther east would eventually lead you to Elturel, capital of the holy land of Elturgard — or at least that was the case until a few days ago. The flood of refugees from Elturel has gotten worse since news first arrived that the city has fallen. Everyone is saying Baldur’s Gate is next, but no one truly knows who or what has claimed Elturel.
The patriars pay a mercenary army called the Flaming Fist to protect their interests in Baldur’s Gate, and by extension, the city itself. The Flaming Fist has gained even more power since their charismatic leader, Ulder Ravengard, claimed the title of Grand Duke a few years ago. Apparently, Ravengard is missing. In his absence, the Flaming Fist has sealed the city’s gates to staunch the flow of refugees. No one is allowed in or out.
Dozens of Flaming Fist soldiers are trying to control an angry mob of commoners eager to leave the city. Armed with only a vague description of Captain Zodge — a tall man with long black hair and a leather eye patch — it takes you a while to find him. A fight breaks out between soldiers and commoners, and you finally spot the one-eyed captain as he wades into the fray and begins throwing punches. Just another day in the City of Blood.
Mendax listens to Keene and, maybe Vin would notice this because of working closely together, can barely keep his anger in control. For a brief moment yesterday, he felt that his work in Baldur's Gate was done, but clearly this city is pulling him back in and for reasons which he doesn't care for. When Keene finishes and before she brings in Stramman he says to her, "it sounds like we have no choice in the matter. I just wish you wouldn't say we are in your debt. I have taken nothing from you, just did your bidding, though without my consent. This feels like I am being blackmailed instead. Semantics aside, you still hold all the cards, so I must abide by your wishes. But help me understand one thing. Why us? There are thousands of other fools like we who live in this city. Why pick us?"
And then when Stramman walks in Mendax has a moment of deja vu until realizing the situation. After Stramman speaks, Mendax spits on the floor in front of Stramman and says, "friends? Son, I don't see us ever becoming friends. If anything you should stay away from me."
Keene smiles once again at Mendax. Perhaps it's not even I that has chosen you... Perhaps it is Lathander working through me. As far as you four are concerned, it matters not. Now, If you don't mind... and even if you do mind, I suppose, you must be on your way. Zodge will be expecting you and time is of the essence. I'll be in touch. She nods to the half elf and with that Keene and Stramman disappear
Kestrell breathes a heavy sigh when Keen and Stramman disapper, then uses Mage Hand to bring a plate of meats and cheeses over to him and begins eating it.
"Well, hell. We now work for the Flaming Fist? Maybe we should just get out of dodge? Grab Rachael and go."
(Sorry folks, busy couple days.) Vin also ignores the food and drink, standing with her back towards a corner in a way that allows her to keep an eye on the door.
As Vin hears the explanation from Keene, her eyes go wide and, although you wouldn't think it possible, her ivory skin grows even paler. She clenches her fists involuntarily, nails digging into her palms so hard a few drops of blood spill out between her fingers, and any who looked close may notice faint electricity dance across her clenched fists for a moment. She begins trembling slightly, and - though it's hard to tell because they're pitch black - her eyes begin darting between those in the room, the door, the windows... Only as she glances to Mendax, seeing the quite anger boiling below the surface, listening to his carefully controlled voice, does she manage to calm down at all, and spends the rest of the meeting standing straight-backed in the corner, staring daggers at Keene and Stramman.
As Keene and Stramman disappear, Vin screams an arcane curse while stomping her foot down on the floorboards with a crack of magic lightning, shattering the wood beneath her foot. "I can't believe this! Those... those... ARGH! Blackmailing us... a rotten enough thing to do. But to threaten that poor girl and the priesthood..." She trails off, shaking her head. "I don't think we can just disappear, Kestrell. They'll find us somehow, and we can't exactly bring the entire church and academy with us. One way or another, they'll get what's coming to them. For now, I suppose we have a job to do."
Con gives Kes a hard stare. We're being listened to, kid. This is her place, remember? He grabs some food and stalks out.
Later, when they're back somewhere that they believe is safe: Kid might be right. I don't mind running. The world's a big place, too big for anyone to have eyes everywhere. He shrugs. I don't like being on someone's leash. I thought... well, I guess it doesn't matter. This was... this was weird. Really weird. A lot of trouble to get us under her control, I mean. We're small fry, really. Well, I am - maybe the kid has hidden depths. He grins, and tosses a bread roll at Kes's head when he's not looking. Whatever. Look, I go where you go, he says to Mendax and Vin. You know that. So, what's the plan?
As they approach the likely Captain Zodge, observes the man carefully, trying to get a sense of how good at brawling he and his men are. I know men like this, I've served with them. Want me to take the lead?
"Yes, yes. We could run! Head for my hometown, it's far from this crazy city, without a crazed faction trying to control everyone."
Kestrell winces when the roll bounces off his head and turns to Con. "Hey! You're getting gluten all over me!" He casts Mage Hand and taps Con on the shoulder. When Con turns to look, Kestrell cats Prestidigitation and creates a shower of blue sparks right in front of Con. "Hahaha, let that be a lesson to you!"
As they approach Captain Zodge, and Con offers to take the load, Kestrell nods. "Yes, go for it. Let's see what he wants us to do."
As they walk towards Captain Zodge Mendax thinks about the options. Running away. It's a good option, they could make seek refuge at Kes's hometown or they could head to hills and find safety in Mendax's clan, but Mendax then shakes his head. "Ever since Ravengard has gone missing the Flaming Fists have kept the gates of Baldur closed. Nobody in, nobody out. For us to escape we'll have to avoid the Flaming Fists as well as Keene and I have a feeling that we're going to be constantly watched over by her. She has eyes everywhere."
Thoughts race through Mendax's mind as he goes through every option possible to get them out of this situation. But he keeps coming up with nothing. Approaching a small square not far the gates Mendax sees the fight breakout amongst the commoners and the Flaming Fists. His initial instinct is to rush towards the fallen and give them aid, but he holds back and keeps an eye on Vin to make sure she doesn't rush in to give to aid. At Con's suggestion he nods and says, "I think you are right with this one Con. We'll hang back."
Con you focus on the talk man with the eye patch, he’s standing tall amid the sea of the possible riot. He lashes out with his cudgel one moment then uses it to direct his men the next Put them down, boys he says as he cracks a man across the brow. Earn your pay! Sort the rabble out now! Fall in line you mutts! The men follow orders diligently making use of maneuvers Con has rarely seen outside tavern brawls. Mouths are fish hooked, arms are twisted, and insteps are stomped as Zodge’s men enforce the peace.
Captain Zodge looks to you four with a glimmer of recognition, eying the young warrior before him appraisingly.
Captain? Con says, gruffly but politely enough. Con, Mendax, Vin and Kes. We've been... assigned to you. What are your orders?Short and to the point, he hopes that will make a good impression - it's always hard to say with a commanding officer, but that has usually worked in the past.
“Good, good, we need all the help we can get with this godsdamned refugee crisis,” says Captain Zodge, “It has stoked fears that Baldur’s Gate might suffer the same fate as Elturel, of which nothing remains but a damn hole in the ground, apparently. Ulder Ravengard, our Grand Duke himself, was visiting Elturel on a diplomatic mission when the city was destroyed. Coincidence? I think not."
Zodge observes his men for a moment as they beat the last of the rioters into submission, relieving their targets of their coin purses as well. This comes as no surprise to you all as the Flaming Fist does not have a reputation for restraint and it's members are granted a tremendous amount of latitude when it comes to the exercising of their duties.
After a moment Zodge continues “The knights of Elturgard call themselves Hellriders. A few of the bastards escaped the destruction and think we’re somehow to blame for Elturel’s downfall. What a bunch of self-righteous rabble-rousers! We’re arresting them on sight, but that’s left us shorthanded to deal with another problem. For that, I need your help.”
Six Soldiers form up around Zodge awaiting orders, they seem to be his personal guard. “Baldur’s Gate has long been plagued by followers of the Dead Three — the gods Bane, Bhaal, and Myrkul. I thought we had wiped them out, but apparently not. These purveyors of fear and death are taking advantage of the current crisis to commit murder sprees throughout the city. As my appointed deputies in this matter, you’ll have license to kill these wretches on sight. Find their lair, and wipe it out. Eliminate anyone who gets in your way, and don’t worry about collateral damage.
“If you do what I say, I’ll see that you each receive two hundred gold pieces in addition to my gratitude, which is worth considerably more.
“A few blocks from the Basilisk Gate is Elfsong Tavern. A spy named Tarina hangs out there, gathering rumors for the Guild. She owes me a favor, so tell her you work for me. Ask her what she knows about the Dead Three. And, for the love of Balduran, be nice. Tarina has dangerous friends. Here, take these, they'll prove to anyone that your acitng on behalf of the Flaming Fist” He hands you each a badge with the emblem of the Flaming Fist and your name engraved on them.
"Get this done and you'll be rewarded, I take care of my own. Now, if there's nothing else, you're dismissed."
Con salutes. Sir! He turns to the others. Let's go.
As they walk, he hands out the badges and pins his own to his armour or cloak, the same place as the other Flaming Fists had theirs. Damn. I'm in uniform again. Or, well, close enough wearing this thing. Not what I was expecting. He looks at the others. Not a good idea to ask too many questions to a man like that. He wants us to get the job done quickly and quietly and without bothering him, so that's what we do, right? The Dead Three... know much about them? he directs this last question to Mendax and Vin.
Malachi smiles and leads you out of Mendax's rooms at the temple, across the eastern part of the lower city to the Elfsong Tavern, a large two story building with white stone walls and a brown tiled roof. You enter through the front door and see the tough stationed there nod to Malachi nonchalantly. You follow Malachi through the bustling main room and up the stairs to the second level. The second level is nicer than the floor below and that is reflected in the clientele as well, a few well coiffed heads turn to notice your motley band you pass. Malachi brings you to a door on the southern side of the building. Outside the door are two relaxed and unassuming men, a middle aged half-orc and lithe looking human with shoulder length brown hair. Despite their calm demeanor those of you with martial knowledge recognize these men as probably the most deadly you've seen since coming to Badur's Gate. The half-orc opens the door Mal. he says. Mal nods to the half orc Gormaught. and to the human Rigmar. the human smiles and says She's waiting for ya. You follow Malachi into a richly furnished private dining room, The head of an umber hulk decorates the wall behind the head of the table which is laid with cured meats, cheeses, breads, and several ewers of wine and pitchers of ale. Seated beneath the monster trophy is a perfectly average looking middle-aged woman with brown hair played by Maggie Gyllenhaal, she stands and smiles as you enter. Welcome, friends, Mendax, Vin, Con, and Kes! It's a pleasure to finally meet you in person. Please have a seat and pour yourselves a drink, we have much to discuss!
Kestrell gets excited at the spread of meats and cheeses, takes a seat and pours a glass of ale.
"Hello! How do you know us? And what is it that we have to discuss?"
Keene smiles. It’s my business to know what’s going on in my city, Kestrell Bardson, and who is who. What we have to discuss is this; I know you killed Graddik. Now don’t worry, I’m not upset, far from it. Graddik was getting too big for his britches, becoming an active threat to me and my interests. If I had moved against him openly it might have made people choose sides. This way, a bolt to the gut turned rotten, he’ll be forgotten quick and easy and his replacement will be much more... amenable to my plans, Lors and I have an understanding you see. She looks to Con I hope you’ll be willing to let bygones be bygones, Mr. Danry. Now, you’re probably wondering how it is I know all this, and maybe it “being my business to know” won’t cut it as far as explanations go. Well, here’s my favorite part of any trick, the reveal; sorry, Vin and Mendax, it wasn’t Lathander’s divine will you lot carried out, it was mine. Keene leans back in her chair with a smile and drinks deeply from her glass, looking at you all in turn.
Con, obviously tense in such a dangerous encounter, shrugs and attempts to appear relaxed. If you can keep Lors on a tight leash, then you won't have any trouble from me. He still scowls darkly, looking down at the ground. One day, he thinks to himself, Lors won't have your protection. His fists clench at the thought.
At the 'reveal', he chuckles. You sure about that? Lathander's a tricky bastard - gets all sorts doing his will, whether they know it or not.
Kestrell gulps, and a look of panic crosses his face. He turns to Vin and Mendax to gauge their reaction.
Mendax walks into the room and looks over at the spread, but declines imbibing on the food and drinks. He goes and stands at the back of one of the chairs and rests his hands on its back. As the woman talks and starts to speak to the truth about the visions Mendax's grip on the chair tightens, his knuckles turning white. Holding back his anger he lets her finish and then says to her staring straight into her eyes, "know this woman, that Lathander knows all and punishes those who sin against him and his words. I pray for you that his justice is swift when your time comes." Mendax loosens the grip on the chair and, closes his eyes and mutters a quick prayer, and then looks back at the woman and says, "now, why did you bring us all here? Graddik is dead, we did your bidding... unknowingly. What more do you want from us?"
Keene fixes Mendax with a steady look. I have gods enough to answer to when that times comes, but it's a ways off yet. In the mean time, see that you don't have to answer to me, dwarf. She maintains the look for a moment longer before relaxing a bit and continuing on. As for what I want from you, that is simple, the Flaming Fist has need of outside help, you four will join them. You are to head to the Basilisk Gate and meet with Captain Darmin Zodge, who will give you further orders. You will not mention my name to anyone, you will not mention the Guild to anyone. You will not be working for me, you will be working for the Flaming Fist, but you will be in my debt, which means I may call on you for information or for favors. You needn't worry about betraying the Fist, either, bribery is their stock and trade, you will simply be a part of my network. she pauses and takes a sip from her glass. Now, to the unpleasant part, should you betray me or my interests, it will become common knowledge that you four conspired to murder Graddik Fellwrought, a well loved and respected member of my guild, gods rest his soul. Oh, and before you get ideas of martyrdom, know that Racheal, Master Torbin, and several priests of Lathander will be implicated as well should you break my trust. But, I'm sure it won't come to that. Stramman! she calls out to the next room and a tall half elf with blond hair and mismatched eyes (played by David Bowie) walks in. This is Stramman, my mage, he will contact you if I need to speak with you and pass along any messages I see fit. Stramman smiles and Mendax, you realize that this is the "Lathander" who appeared in your dream. Stramman remains silent as Keene continues speaking. Ah, I see that you've deduced the method the messages will take! Strange things, dreams! Well, that's all settled! I hope that we can all remain friends! Welcome to the real Baldur's Gate! Keene raises her glass in a toast and BLACKOUT
The opening credits roll:
Wizards of the Coast presents:
A Markdmitri production.
Baldur's Gate: Descent into Avernus
Starring Dcatterina as Mendax
Jaysburn as Vin
KestrellKestrell as Kestrell
SteveThaiBinh as Con
The camera pans down from the dawn sky and swoops low over the water coming up to the city of Baldur's Gate.
A voice is heard (its Ian McKellen!)
Welcome to Baldur’s Gate, a veritable nest of rats and vipers clinging to the rocky slopes overlooking the Chionthar River. From their high perches in the Upper City, the local nobles — known as patriars — gaze down with veiled contempt upon the common rabble in the grimy Lower City, which hugs the foggy harbor. The whole of Baldur’s Gate reeks of blood, crime, and opportunity. One can easily fathom why pirates and traders are drawn to this place like flies to a carcass.
Following the river farther east would eventually lead you to Elturel, capital of the holy land of Elturgard — or at least that was the case until a few days ago. The flood of refugees from Elturel has gotten worse since news first arrived that the city has fallen. Everyone is saying Baldur’s Gate is next, but no one truly knows who or what has claimed Elturel.
The patriars pay a mercenary army called the Flaming Fist to protect their interests in Baldur’s Gate, and by extension, the city itself. The Flaming Fist has gained even more power since their charismatic leader, Ulder Ravengard, claimed the title of Grand Duke a few years ago. Apparently, Ravengard is missing. In his absence, the Flaming Fist has sealed the city’s gates to staunch the flow of refugees. No one is allowed in or out.
Dozens of Flaming Fist soldiers are trying to control an angry mob of commoners eager to leave the city. Armed with only a vague description of Captain Zodge — a tall man with long black hair and a leather eye patch — it takes you a while to find him. A fight breaks out between soldiers and commoners, and you finally spot the one-eyed captain as he wades into the fray and begins throwing punches. Just another day in the City of Blood.
Mendax listens to Keene and, maybe Vin would notice this because of working closely together, can barely keep his anger in control. For a brief moment yesterday, he felt that his work in Baldur's Gate was done, but clearly this city is pulling him back in and for reasons which he doesn't care for. When Keene finishes and before she brings in Stramman he says to her, "it sounds like we have no choice in the matter. I just wish you wouldn't say we are in your debt. I have taken nothing from you, just did your bidding, though without my consent. This feels like I am being blackmailed instead. Semantics aside, you still hold all the cards, so I must abide by your wishes. But help me understand one thing. Why us? There are thousands of other fools like we who live in this city. Why pick us?"
And then when Stramman walks in Mendax has a moment of deja vu until realizing the situation. After Stramman speaks, Mendax spits on the floor in front of Stramman and says, "friends? Son, I don't see us ever becoming friends. If anything you should stay away from me."
Keene smiles once again at Mendax. Perhaps it's not even I that has chosen you... Perhaps it is Lathander working through me. As far as you four are concerned, it matters not. Now, If you don't mind... and even if you do mind, I suppose, you must be on your way. Zodge will be expecting you and time is of the essence. I'll be in touch. She nods to the half elf and with that Keene and Stramman disappear
Kestrell breathes a heavy sigh when Keen and Stramman disapper, then uses Mage Hand to bring a plate of meats and cheeses over to him and begins eating it.
"Well, hell. We now work for the Flaming Fist? Maybe we should just get out of dodge? Grab Rachael and go."
(Sorry folks, busy couple days.)
Vin also ignores the food and drink, standing with her back towards a corner in a way that allows her to keep an eye on the door.
As Vin hears the explanation from Keene, her eyes go wide and, although you wouldn't think it possible, her ivory skin grows even paler. She clenches her fists involuntarily, nails digging into her palms so hard a few drops of blood spill out between her fingers, and any who looked close may notice faint electricity dance across her clenched fists for a moment. She begins trembling slightly, and - though it's hard to tell because they're pitch black - her eyes begin darting between those in the room, the door, the windows... Only as she glances to Mendax, seeing the quite anger boiling below the surface, listening to his carefully controlled voice, does she manage to calm down at all, and spends the rest of the meeting standing straight-backed in the corner, staring daggers at Keene and Stramman.
As Keene and Stramman disappear, Vin screams an arcane curse while stomping her foot down on the floorboards with a crack of magic lightning, shattering the wood beneath her foot. "I can't believe this! Those... those... ARGH! Blackmailing us... a rotten enough thing to do. But to threaten that poor girl and the priesthood..." She trails off, shaking her head. "I don't think we can just disappear, Kestrell. They'll find us somehow, and we can't exactly bring the entire church and academy with us. One way or another, they'll get what's coming to them. For now, I suppose we have a job to do."
Con gives Kes a hard stare. We're being listened to, kid. This is her place, remember? He grabs some food and stalks out.
Later, when they're back somewhere that they believe is safe: Kid might be right. I don't mind running. The world's a big place, too big for anyone to have eyes everywhere. He shrugs. I don't like being on someone's leash. I thought... well, I guess it doesn't matter. This was... this was weird. Really weird. A lot of trouble to get us under her control, I mean. We're small fry, really. Well, I am - maybe the kid has hidden depths. He grins, and tosses a bread roll at Kes's head when he's not looking. Whatever. Look, I go where you go, he says to Mendax and Vin. You know that. So, what's the plan?
As they approach the likely Captain Zodge, observes the man carefully, trying to get a sense of how good at brawling he and his men are. I know men like this, I've served with them. Want me to take the lead?
"Yes, yes. We could run! Head for my hometown, it's far from this crazy city, without a crazed faction trying to control everyone."
Kestrell winces when the roll bounces off his head and turns to Con. "Hey! You're getting gluten all over me!" He casts Mage Hand and taps Con on the shoulder. When Con turns to look, Kestrell cats Prestidigitation and creates a shower of blue sparks right in front of Con. "Hahaha, let that be a lesson to you!"
As they approach Captain Zodge, and Con offers to take the load, Kestrell nods. "Yes, go for it. Let's see what he wants us to do."
As they walk towards Captain Zodge Mendax thinks about the options. Running away. It's a good option, they could make seek refuge at Kes's hometown or they could head to hills and find safety in Mendax's clan, but Mendax then shakes his head. "Ever since Ravengard has gone missing the Flaming Fists have kept the gates of Baldur closed. Nobody in, nobody out. For us to escape we'll have to avoid the Flaming Fists as well as Keene and I have a feeling that we're going to be constantly watched over by her. She has eyes everywhere."
Thoughts race through Mendax's mind as he goes through every option possible to get them out of this situation. But he keeps coming up with nothing. Approaching a small square not far the gates Mendax sees the fight breakout amongst the commoners and the Flaming Fists. His initial instinct is to rush towards the fallen and give them aid, but he holds back and keeps an eye on Vin to make sure she doesn't rush in to give to aid. At Con's suggestion he nods and says, "I think you are right with this one Con. We'll hang back."
Con you focus on the talk man with the eye patch, he’s standing tall amid the sea of the possible riot. He lashes out with his cudgel one moment then uses it to direct his men the next Put them down, boys he says as he cracks a man across the brow. Earn your pay! Sort the rabble out now! Fall in line you mutts! The men follow orders diligently making use of maneuvers Con has rarely seen outside tavern brawls. Mouths are fish hooked, arms are twisted, and insteps are stomped as Zodge’s men enforce the peace.
Captain Zodge looks to you four with a glimmer of recognition, eying the young warrior before him appraisingly.
Captain? Con says, gruffly but politely enough. Con, Mendax, Vin and Kes. We've been... assigned to you. What are your orders? Short and to the point, he hopes that will make a good impression - it's always hard to say with a commanding officer, but that has usually worked in the past.
“Good, good, we need all the help we can get with this godsdamned refugee crisis,” says Captain Zodge, “It has stoked fears that Baldur’s Gate might suffer the same fate as Elturel, of which nothing remains but a damn hole in the ground, apparently. Ulder Ravengard, our Grand Duke himself, was visiting Elturel on a diplomatic mission when the city was destroyed. Coincidence? I think not."
Zodge observes his men for a moment as they beat the last of the rioters into submission, relieving their targets of their coin purses as well. This comes as no surprise to you all as the Flaming Fist does not have a reputation for restraint and it's members are granted a tremendous amount of latitude when it comes to the exercising of their duties.
After a moment Zodge continues “The knights of Elturgard call themselves Hellriders. A few of the bastards escaped the destruction and think we’re somehow to blame for Elturel’s downfall. What a bunch of self-righteous rabble-rousers! We’re arresting them on sight, but that’s left us shorthanded to deal with another problem. For that, I need your help.”
Six Soldiers form up around Zodge awaiting orders, they seem to be his personal guard. “Baldur’s Gate has long been plagued by followers of the Dead Three — the gods Bane, Bhaal, and Myrkul. I thought we had wiped them out, but apparently not. These purveyors of fear and death are taking advantage of the current crisis to commit murder sprees throughout the city. As my appointed deputies in this matter, you’ll have license to kill these wretches on sight. Find their lair, and wipe it out. Eliminate anyone who gets in your way, and don’t worry about collateral damage.
“If you do what I say, I’ll see that you each receive two hundred gold pieces in addition to my gratitude, which is worth considerably more.
“A few blocks from the Basilisk Gate is Elfsong Tavern. A spy named Tarina hangs out there, gathering rumors for the Guild. She owes me a favor, so tell her you work for me. Ask her what she knows about the Dead Three. And, for the love of Balduran, be nice. Tarina has dangerous friends. Here, take these, they'll prove to anyone that your acitng on behalf of the Flaming Fist” He hands you each a badge with the emblem of the Flaming Fist and your name engraved on them.
"Get this done and you'll be rewarded, I take care of my own. Now, if there's nothing else, you're dismissed."
Con salutes. Sir! He turns to the others. Let's go.
As they walk, he hands out the badges and pins his own to his armour or cloak, the same place as the other Flaming Fists had theirs. Damn. I'm in uniform again. Or, well, close enough wearing this thing. Not what I was expecting. He looks at the others. Not a good idea to ask too many questions to a man like that. He wants us to get the job done quickly and quietly and without bothering him, so that's what we do, right? The Dead Three... know much about them? he directs this last question to Mendax and Vin.
"200 gold! I've never seen that much money. But if it is to stop murderers that is even better."
Kestrell pins the flaming fist badge on his shirt, and casts Prestidigitation to make it appear orange and red and fiery.