Claire takes some time to stop on the bridge and look down at the flowing water.  She studies her reflection, smirking a bit at the irony of landing smack dab in the middle of a continent with values that her family would likely approve of... and right at a time when the seed of magic within her keeps causing such upset.  She's a little envious of the casters who can harness their arcane powers so effortlessly, without the doubts and whispers of propriety and morality clawing at them.

"Envious...?" she says to herself, the reflection's face morphing into a disgruntled frown.  Pulling away from the river, she looks up to the Church of Light.  "Strength," she says more resolutely.  "Light, bring me guidance, and strength.  I will not falter here, or succumb to my whims and fancies.  I must be strong."  

Emboldened, she crosses the bridge quickly and enters the church before she can second-guess herself.  The cool interior of the stone building calms her racing thoughts as the doors slowly close behind her.  Walking more slowly through the pews, she approaches the altar of the church and seats herself in one of the empty benches nearby.  Staring at the holy symbols of the light, she clasps her hands together and bows her head, falling into the rote murmur of one of the Church's standard prayers as she does so.

In her head, her prayer sounds a bit different... more of a plea.  Claire has always scoffed at those who viewed prayer as a means of requesting favors from the gods; she'd always felt it to be a bit of a mercenary way to approach one's faith.  Belief should be freely given, not offered in exchange for divine favors.  Which makes it all the more humiliating and mortifying to be praying like this in the church at all.

Oh Light.. help me to understand this power that moves restlessly in me.  Help me to conquer and control it, to tame it, before it becomes a beast which consumes me, as it did my family generations before.

Following Claire in to town, but heading for a different venue, Nos Heliwr is unimpressed by the décor and sights of the Shack, but all that is well and truly trivialized by the incredible smells coming from the kitchen.  Just walking into the inn is enough to make his mouth water.   The meal, when it comes, is plain but delicious.  It's piping hot and cooked to perfection.  The lamb shank is falling off the bone, the potatoes are crisp on the outside and fluffy in the middle.  The vegetables are crunchy and crisp.  All of it is drizzled with a rosemary gravy which smells and tastes amazing.

Whilst enjoying his meal he listens to the buzz of conversation around the tap room.  It seems that most of the conversation is about typical farming affairs which are of little interest.  Some is about the Guild and the fact their ships have started to arrive in Zaneth as spring has sprung, and that trade is picking up.   After a while he notices a man in the corner of the room who appears to be paying Nos Heliwr more attention that makes him comfortable.  Just as Nos begins to narrow his eyes in suspicion, the stranger makes an almost imperceptible sign what would be meaningless to most people in the world, if they even spotted it.  But Nos Heliwr recognises it instantly.  It is the connection signal.  The man across the room is a Jade Assassin who is trying to make contact.

"Good afternoon, dearie.  You are clearly not a local.  What brings you to this, our church?"  The voice cuts through Claire's prayers, bringing her away from her meditation and back into the moment.  She blinks and looks up to see a tall, bald man with a pot belly.  His white robes, tied with a white belt, embroidered with a blazing sun motif mark him as a priest of the Light.  He smiles an open, friendly smile which instantly puts Claire at ease.

Claire starts and jerks her head up at the sound of the priest's voice.  Looking up at the welcoming man, some of the tension eases out of her shoulders.

"Greetings, Father," she says, bowing respectfully.  "I wish I could say it was devotion which brings me here."  She pauses.  "It's rather the opposite, however.  I am having... a crisis of faith," she continues haltingly.  "I feel lost, and was hoping to find my way back to a clear path through divine guidance."  Leaning back in the pew, a slightly bitter smile plays at her lips.  "But even I know that it's a selfish request to make... to come and say prayers to the Light only when facing difficulties.  I'd not be surprised, and perhaps even deserving, if the Light were to ignore my pleas now."

You're talking to a priest, Claire, some part of her snaps, and her face heats up in embarrassment.

"Ah.... I'm so sorry, Father!  That was impudent of me," she hastily corrects herself, bowing again.  "My name is Theresa, sir.  It would be an honor to make your acquaintance."  Falling back on social graces is always a good way to recover what's left of one's dignity, Claire thinks, still mortified by her inability to filter out her private thoughts from the local priest, of all people.

The tall priest blinks slowly, the benign smile never leaving his face.  Claire notes that the smile reaches his eyes and believes it to be genuine.  "There is no need to apologize, dearie," he tells her.  "The Light is ever-present and all-encompassing.  It is always there, supporting and nourishing us, even when we face away from it.  And even in the seemingly darkest of places all we need to do is seek it out and we will find it eventually, if we just keep looking.   And the best part, the Light never judges us for our past, it merely revels in our basking in its heavenly glory."

"I am Father Ungin, the sole priest in charge of this parish."  The tall man bows deeply, which shows off his bald pate to Claire.  "Feel free to stay here and pray, or just relax in the quiet solitude of the church, as long as you wish.  Did you have anything specific you wished to talk to me about, or ask?"

"Well, I am a traveler just passing through.  My journey here was rather… unexpected," Claire says, fidgeting.  “I find myself having to take up mercenary work just to get by.  This… it’s something I’ve never done before.  Tasks were always presented to me, and I fulfilled them to the best of my abilities.  But now, I have choices.  Freedom to do whatever I wish with myself, and it’s a little intimidating.”

She sighs.  “I suppose I’m just hoping to find the wisdom to do the right thing.  I’ve never been entrusted with my own autonomy before, not to this degree.  What if there was a good reason for that?  I’m afraid I’m going to make all the wrong choices and do things which I regret.”  She smiles at the priest.  “What advice would you have for a case as hopeless as mine, then, Father?”

Father Ungin looks perplexed.  "I'm... not really sure what you are after, dearie.   If you are asking me if it is okay to take up the role of the mercenary, then I would say yes.  It is a dangerous world and people need capable folk to do the things which the common people are not able to do.  The world is full of terrors and it needs stout, brave folk to undertake some jobs for which most are not suited.   If you are asking if it is okay to choose your own destiny then I say, yes, of course it is.  In fact, choosing your own path is a better way of life than blindly following the dictates of others.  Use your moral compass to decide where your destiny lies, for it is my belief we make our own futures.

"In short, you are in control of your own life.  Make good choices and enjoy the journey.  Just remember to keep the Light in mind at all times and you will not stray far from the path."

"Ah, Karim is it not," Nos Heliwr says to the man, "what brings you to this place?  Last I heard much had befallen the House of Jade, so much that I am unsure of my place there.  What news have you of our 'Family'?"  Although he relaxes a little, Nos Heliwr will not drop his guard, after all, a friend of a friend can be an enemy.  He will watch very carefully how Karim responds, paying particular attention to his eyes.

Perception   5

 "It is indeed I, yes, Nos.  The Family is in a bit of disarray I am afraid.  Clearly you will have heard of the dishonour of Kululu Jade on the far-away island of Granita.   It is common knowledge that her and her team attempted to disrupt the casting of the Ritual to shut the gate and to stop the Writhing Death entering our lands.  What is not commonly known, but which is guessed at by many, is that she did so at the direct order of her mother, the queen, Lily Jade.  That probably won't surprise you, being a member of the Family.

"However the grim news is that the queen has disappeared.  I have not seen or had word of her in many months - since the autumn.  She is definitely no longer resident in the Verdant Palace - in fact that place has become abandoned.   So we are a country without a ruler for the time being. 

"What you may also not know is that one of the last things the queen commanded of me as her spy master, was that I engage all of my assets to kill Reynard Ferrand and his companions.  Yes the Reynard Ferrand who is now First Consul and ruler of the new republic.  This was, at least, back before he was elected to that position, but it was at the same time as Kululu Jade and her assassins turned and attacked Ferrand and his strike team on Granita.  Why did the queen want Lord Ferrand killed?  I am afraid I simply do not know.  She is at the best of times unstable.

"Why am I telling you this?   When I had to give the order to get my spy network to try and arrange for the death of Lord Ferrand, I knew it would mean the end of the network.   Though some of those spies are still alive, those that are alive are in hiding and are of little to no use to me.   With the queen missing and Kululu dead, my next move is to look to the remaining Jade Assassins and try and build them into a cohesive unit once more.   What we shall do, once regathered, I do not know.  Perhaps the queen will have surfaced by then.   So in the meantime I am wandering northern Ibini looking for agents.   Frustratingly, you are only the second I have found.

"What are your thoughts on all this news, friend?" he asks Nos Heliwr.

You have the feeling he is being utterly frank and honest.  It seems like he is relieved to have found a member of the Assassins and is quite simply pouring his heart out.

"I'd feel a lot better if there was something tangible I could do for the Light," Claire admits to Ungin.  "I'm committed to this path I took, bring it good or evil my way, but I'd really rather do some good when I can.  So if there is ever a task the Church might need a strong arm for, please let me know.  I plan to be staying at the Torrent for a while yet, though I'll likely be busy with my companions for some time.  If you could let me know when the regular services take place, though, I'll make an effort to attend."

Thanking the priest for his ear, Claire spends a bit more time continuing her prayers in the church, before noting the late hour and returning back towards the Manor to meet up with the rest of the group.

Quote from Blakey >>

(Note there is some continuity missing here as Nos Heliwr and I played some of this out over private message.  For the information of our avid readers, Nos Heliwr lead the man outside of the inn and into a nearby copse.

The man strides carefully towards you through the trees.  "Well met Nos Heliwr, it has been some time."  As soon as the man speaks recognition strikes.  This is Karim Moonleaf, the head of Lily Jade's spy network.  Though not directly part of the Jade Assassins, Karim worked closely with Kululu Jade before her death a couple of years ago.  Karim is a very senior person in the command chain and reports directly to the Verdant Queen.  You have met him on a couple of occasions in the past, years ago, and are perhaps surprised he remembers you - but then again a memory like that would be a requirement for his role you imagine.  )

 

 "It is indeed I, yes, Nos.  The Family is in a bit of disarray I am afraid.  Clearly you will have heard of the dishonour of Kululu Jade on the far-away island of Granita.   It is common knowledge that her and her team attempted to disrupt the casting of the Ritual to shut the gate and to stop the Writhing Death entering our lands.  What is not commonly known, but which is guessed at by many, is that she did so at the direct order of her mother, the queen, Lily Jade.  That probably won't surprise you, being a member of the Family.

"However the grim news is that the queen has disappeared.  I have not seen or had word of her in many months - since the autumn.  She is definitely no longer resident in the Verdant Palace - in fact that place has become abandoned.   So we are a country without a ruler for the time being. 

"What you may also not know is that one of the last things the queen commanded of me as her spy master, was that I engage all of my assets to kill Reynard Ferrand and his companions.  Yes the Reynard Ferrand who is now First Consul and ruler of the new republic.  This was, at least, back before he was elected to that position, but it was at the same time as Kululu Jade and her assassins turned and attacked Ferrand and his strike team on Granita.  Why did the queen want Lord Ferrand killed?  I am afraid I simply do not know.  She is at the best of times unstable.

"Why am I telling you this?   When I had to give the order to get my spy network to try and arrange for the death of Lord Ferrand, I knew it would mean the end of the network.   Though some of those spies are still alive, those that are alive are in hiding and are of little to no use to me.   With the queen missing and Kululu dead, my next move is to look to the remaining Jade Assassins and try and build them into a cohesive unit once more.   What we shall do, once regathered, I do not know.  Perhaps the queen will have surfaced by then.   So in the meantime I am wandering northern Ibini looking for agents.   Frustratingly, you are only the second I have found.

"What are your thoughts on all this news, friend?" he asks Nos Heliwr.

You have the feeling he is being utterly frank and honest.  It seems like he is relieved to have found a member of the Assassins and is quite simply pouring his heart out.

 

 "I think one of the first things that needs be done is finding out why the Queen wanted Lord Ferrand dead." Nos Heliwr sounds grim. "If she was . . . unstable when she gave the order it would put a vastly different outlook on the situation as opposed to there being a valid reason for his death warrant. Though I can not think of a good reason at the moment. It would also be good to know what he has in mind for Ibini;" he hesitates so briefly as to be easily missed. "I sometimes wonder if . . . others might be better off operating in secret, strengthening the House of Jade's place in the world; strengthen the illusion of public leadership of the Republic. Much can be accomplished when only a few know."

Nos Heliwer will carefully study Karim's face for any sighs of surprised offense at his suggestions.

"You know there is a very rare kind of jade, a black jade, very rare and hard enough to fashion weapons from."

Father Ungin tells Claire that he will look for her if he thinks of anything, but suggests perhaps she should speak to the Baron as he has something he wants help with.

Meanwhile Karim Moonleaf raises an eyebrow to Nos Heliwr's suggestion and smiles briefly.  "I'm glad one of the brighter members of the Family is still around, at least," he responds.  "If you ever make your way to Barusi, look up Jared.  He is one of Overseer Emilia's enforcers there, among other roles," he says with a wink.   "In the meantime I suggest you get yourself into the local Baron's good books, at least as a start.   However, be aware there are three major power centres in northern Ibini.  And from what I can tell it's likely they are heading to a confrontation.  If you are going to pick a side, I suggest you pick wisely.  Don't put all your eggs in one basket as my mother used to say."

With that he bows, turns and heads off back into town.

The afternoon is fast wearing away and early evening approaches.  Most of you are relaxing in the manor house.   Nos Heliwr is still in town.

Does anyone want to do anything more before you are called to dinner?

(Hello!  Just to make an in game reason why I've not been involved, here's what Sal has been doing.)

Over the course of the day, Salazar has gotten some much needed pampering done.  He wandered out into the town, just casually walking around.  After spending some time basking in the throng of the people, he wandered out to the edge of the town, enjoying the nature, the peace and quiet.  Silence, peace, and isolation.  The thrill of being in a city.  These are things he has missed in his time in slavery.  He'd lost a lot of time, but now it was time to make up for it.  One other thing he's missed?  BATHS.  After wandering the city, Sal returns to his room in the manor and draws a hot bath.  BLISS.  He soaks the wear of the road off of him, not even caring about the odd color the water has turned.  He starts trying to scrub off some of the callouses on his hands and feet with minimal success.  Ah well.  Maybe I can find a porous stone or some oils.  

The only thing that throws off his relaxation are the writhing chains that slowly move across his naked skin.  He's been able to largely ignore them, but as they course across his torso, he can't help but focus on them.  Well.  That throws off the mood entirely.  He takes a moment to rinse and prepare for dinner.  Right then.  Direction.  We need direction.  

After getting dressed, Salazar heads out to the common area, ready for whatever challenges may come.  

Noe Heliwr, as he wanders through Grundal, will speak with any urchins, beggars, etc. asking about what is happening round about, handing out coppers for tidbits with the understanding that more valuable information will command a richer reward.  When he gets back to the Baron's he will clean up and dress for dinner. While he waits for the summons to dinner he will reflect upon the task he has set upon himself.

Nos Heliwr begins to assemble his little ears for the new Black Jade network he has contrived.  Grunal has a few urchins and the couple he picks out are very willing to help for a small amount of coin.  It's only the beginning but from tiny acorns do mighty oaks grow and it is a start.

An hour before dinner time a servant of unknown name appears in the guest wing and informs you all that dinner will be rung in an hour.   You all troop off to your individual rooms and make final preparations.  All of you have bathed, some have made use of the new clothes which have been put out for you.  All of you are feeling refreshed and relaxed, and luxuriating in the incredibly opulent surroundings.

Exactly an hour after the servant arrived, Nevil sweeps into the guest wing.  He checks you all over, makes the occasional adjustment to a collar here or a cuff there, and nods his general approval.  "You scrub up well," he commends the group.   "Ready?"  Taking your nods as agreement he then leads you back down the stairs to the ground floor and across the mansion into the Baron's family wing.  Here he takes you to a large pair of double doors which he elegantly pushes open.

Beyond the doors is a majestic dining hall.  Long and thin, it stretches away from you into the distance.   A long, thin table of oak perfectly matches the dimensions of the room.  It has sturdy oak chairs placed all the way down it and the quick counters among you note there are twelve seats on each side and one at the head and foot.   At the far end is sat a man in full noble regalia, including pompous hat. 

Baron Gilbert is middle aged and rotund, living well off the bounties of his estate. He likes to dress in flamboyant outfits, often of outrageous colours. He has a twirly moustache and favours a wide-brimmed hat. Gilbert is a shrewd businessman and deals well with the Guild merchants who choose to come as far as his estates. He has a couple of very good associates, or partners in the Guild who continue to make the extra trip to his port of Zaneth to collect the farm produce he sells.

The Rodinian Gazetteer

The man rises as you enter.  "Ah!  Honoured guests, please, do join me!" he calls out, his loud voice easily filling the large chamber.  He indicates the five place settings which have been laid out at the far end of the table, next to where he is standing at the head of the table.

Vaclav takes the seat on the side of three, furthest away from the Baron. "Honoured guests. It's been a while since I've been that." He whispers as he sits down.

Salazar stands by the chair at the man's right hand.  "Baron, the accommodations you have provided are astounding.  If for nothing else, thank you very much for that."  He's dealt with such men before.  There's nothing wrong with a little flattery and ego-stroking to get whatever the group wants.

Louis finds a seat and picks up a fork and knife, eager to eat a free meal, cooked by a professional.