Chapter 10: Eye of the Storm

[Dave W.]

Team B

Jan 11, 2012 23:24:05 GMT -4 Jeff said:

"Indeed," Diesa says. She looks with curiosity at Adamant. "If you are so insistent that your master be rid of his map, why not destroy it? Are you so fearful and superstitious of it?"

"Saddly," Redoubt says quietly, defeated, "Nerrin does not trust me with the map and fire."

After Nerrin retorts with 'scrapheap' Redoubt sinks back into Adamant. Subdued, mutters apologies to the dwarves and slumps along after Belarin.

Adamant actually stops short when Belarin and Shorak seem to be congratulating him. "But... I ... I don't understand," he moves on with his friends, " nothing I did accomplished anything. I'm not sure what we accomplished at all. But if you are happy I will believe you."

"I'm afraid I must decline your offer, Shorak" Adamant says with clear relief. "but I am ill-designed for quiet movement," metal rings on metal as he raps a finger against his thigh, "or fine movements." He displays six thick fingers. "Now on the other hand, if you wish to become a Vassal of our Lady, perhaps we could start with the Ecstasy of St Theresa."

[Brian]

Team K

Kal:

"Condign, you must stop carrying that sword around. You look ridiculous. Let's get it properly stowed away."

"Of course, my lord Kalarian," Condign says with a hint of a bow. Then he raises his eyebrows, and his face splits into a mischievous grin. "Your humble servant would be honored if you were to present him with a gift of a scabbard. Most honored indeed."

[Jeff]

Team K

Rinti is the first to spot a leatherwork shop. Even a glance through its open windows shows you that they sell various types of leather armor, belts, boots....and scabbards.

[Ken]

Team B

Jan 13, 2012 0:44:21 GMT -4 Dave W. said:

Adamant actually stops short when Belarin and Shorak seem to be congratulating him. "But... I ... I don't understand," he moves on with his friends, " nothing I did accomplished anything. I'm not sure what we accomplished at all. But if you are happy I will believe you."

"Pshaw," says Belarin as they continue moving. "You dissembled magnificently. Even the raising of Kal was well timed. A Deneith possibly getting secret information before the Kundaraks? I'm sure that nugget of information lodged in their heads. No, no, 'Redoubt,' you did extremely well. The fault was mine in not anticipating that they would want a map of Gerhest itself. I'll have to do a better job of managing the expectations of our next audience. And a rumored third location? Hmmm...

"Shorak, they mentioned a few names during the discussion. Any of them sound familiar?"

[Dave B.]

Team B

Jan 13, 2012 11:37:34 GMT -4 Ken said:

"Shorak, they mentioned a few names during the discussion. Any of them sound familiar?"

"Oh yes. Their cousin Lord Korbek Ghedin d'Kundarak is the head of the Stormreach enclave. Korbek is the nephew of Durdik Ghedin and Durdik is the Patriarch of the entire Ghedin family. As noteworthy as that is, I think the other name mentioned is much more vital." Here Shorak pauses for effect, smiling slightly. "Yorrick Amanatu is the Storm Lord of Silverwell. We may have just opened a door to attracting the attention of one of the five most powerful people in Stormreach. And it's not even lunchtime."

As they get closer to Locksmith Square, Shorak quickens his pace slightly. He is a bit surprised at how this feels like returning home. Home. He hadn't realized how much his small living space and the friendship with his landlord Berk had become so important to him.

[Dave W.]

Team B

Jan 13, 2012 11:37:34 GMT -4 Ken said:

"Pshaw," says Belarin as they continue moving. "You dissembled magnificently.

"I'm not sure 'dissembling' is something I'm supposed do well, Be... er, Nerrin." Adamant says lightly, "I prefer to think of it as a feint to draw an opponent away from their defenses."

"Ah, and shopping, I must remember to pick up a scroll case or two... For the Cyran letter and to continue recording hymns and chants. Oh and I need to find  a hammer or some other throwing weapon, I'm down to the one after the gargoyles and I really need to carry at least a pair. And perhaps a knife."

"umm, Nerrin, thank you for paying for my greys," Adamant touches the breast of his surcoat, "I will find a way to repay you."

[Ken]

"Don't concern yourself ," says Belarin in Nerrin's nasal tones. "No bodyguard of mine is going to look anything less than respectable."

He addresses Shorak. "Thank you for the insights. I already feel much better about our chance meeting! If you don't mind my asking, Shorak... why did you want to leave this city? With your knowledge and cleverness, it would seem like you'd be more or less comfortable here. Now I understand if being 'comfortable' is a horrendous idea to you -- I've felt that way at times -- but I'm just curious."

[Jeff]

Team B

As you're talking, you pass into the district of Silverwall, a place of stark contrasts. Where the first half, Locksmith Square, is alive with color and abuzz with activity, Shorak knows that the other, Coasthold, is its silent, chaotic, and more straightforward twin.

It is quickly apparent to Belarin and Adamant where the district gets its name: from the peculiar coloration of the two walls that delineate the boundaries of Locksmith Square—one running west to east along its southern edge (then curving back west), the other running north to south (and curving west along the way). Both walls are massive, reaching some sixty feet into the air, but the distinctive silver sheen covers only the sides facing into the square. As a result, the entire square is reflected back at itself everywhere you look, and while the reflections aren’t mirror-like in their clarity, they do serve to surround the area in a mildly disorientating cast, making lights seem more spread out (which in turn generates more shadows) and making colors appear brighter and more omnipresent. Shorak knows this curious design is found nowhere else in the city, and helps lend the square its vibrant character.

Around and before you are street performers and peddlers. The sounds of communication between peoples, from hagglings to heated arguments to unrestrained laughter, dominate the air at all times.

Just a few more blocks—rather, the unusual, haphazardly fallen ruins of giant civilization that are conveniently block-sized—and you'll come to Shorak's residence.

[Jeff]

Team K

Kal:

"Perhaps we should find a weapon for you, as well, Rinti. And then we must teach you to use it. What do you think? A shortsword, perhaps? You're too small for a quarterstaff....."

Rinti looks surprised at this. She taps the hilt of her small knife. "I'm very good with a short blade, my lord. I like to think." Given her size and skinniness, Kal can't help but think that even a short sword, unless perfectly sized for her, might be a little too heavy for her.

"And here I thought I'd have to try to become a Stormlord Guard sometime, like maybe that was the best I could do. Perhaps there's a future for me in the Blademarks?"

Two customers exit the leatherworker's shop. Wearing a fresh suit of studded leather, one of them, a tall half-elf with wind-ruddy skin and an eyepatch, smiles happily. He reminds you, just a little, of Ralsor d'Lyrandar. "Let's see if those drow savages can puncture this," he remarks.

His companion, a shorter, older human, holds a money pouch in his hand. He looks less happy with its heft. They walk off.

[Dave B.]

Team B

Jan 15, 2012 1:16:28 GMT -4 Ken said:

He addresses Shorak. "Thank you for the insights. I already feel much better about our chance meeting! If you don't mind my asking, Shorak... why did you want to leave this city? With your knowledge and cleverness, it would seem like you'd be more or less comfortable here. Now I understand if being 'comfortable' is a horrendous idea to you -- I've felt that way at times -- but I'm just curious."

"My little adventure was never meant to take me away from Stormreach permanently. I was just following a rumor of one of my kinsman. Possibly my only living kin. Unfortunately, the rumor proved false." He smiles at Nerrin/Belarin and Redoubt/Adamant. "I did discover several new friends. I'd say that makes my journey away mostly successful."

[Joe]

TEAM K

Streko watches the two gentlemen leave the ship. He glances up at Kal. "Depending upon how you look at things, it seems as if everyone in this city appears to be preparing to go on an adventure of some type. Let us hope it isn't quote so crowded out there as to impede our own progress."

He turns to Condign. "Time's wasting, my friend. There must be a scabbard in there with your name on it!"

"And here I thought I'd have to try to become a Stormlord Guard sometime, like maybe that was the best I could do. Perhaps there's a future for me in the Blademarks?"

He smiles at Rinti. "Blademarks never go to work with the wrong weapons for themselves. It would be like a baker trying to make bread with sewing needles. He could do it, I suppose, but not as well as with flour, eggs and other ingredients. Wouldn't you agree with me, my Lord?" He looks back up at Kal with a wink and smile.

[Brian]

Team K

"Indeed, my lord," says Condign to Streko. "A scabbard would be useful." He gives Kal a surreptitious elbow to the side. "As soon as my lord Kalarian gives the word, we shall hopefully find one appropriate for his lowly servant."

[Jeff]

Team B

And while you're still taking in the sights, Shorak suddenly hears Larest's telepathic voice reaching him through the ring on his finger.

Shorak. We are in the Kundarak vaults. Already, I am hearing and seeing things that proves that many organizations have come to the city. How are you?

[Darren]

Kal nods at Streko's Halfling comments, but offers no other answer.

"Servant?" Kal laughs at Condign. "Not at all. You are one of the finest warriors to ever fight by my side! Is a soldier the servant of his general? I think not, Condign...."

"As for you, Rinti, no...I don't see your future in an organization as low as the Stormlord Guard in your future. The Blademarks? Hmmm....perhaps....."

[Brian]

Team K

Condign gives Kal a slight bow. "I am honored, my lord. Regardless, we are still in a hurry. Shall we proceed?"

Then, without waiting for an answer, he strides into the leather worker's store.

[Ken]

As he was upon arrival, Belarin is fascinated by what he sees. The activity, excitement, and oddity are all welcome changes after weeks at sea. However, the only emotion apparent on Nerrin's face is irritation. "So noisy," he says aloud. Then, in a softer voice to Adamant and Shorak, he continues, "...but wonderful. It reminds me of my time with the fey... well, if you replace the smell of lilacs with body odor. And add ugly people."

[Dave B.]

Team B

Jan 15, 2012 21:44:44 GMT -4 Jeff said:

Team B

And while you're still taking in the sights, Shorak suddenly hears Larest's telepathic voice reaching him through the ring on his finger.

Shorak. We are in the Kundarak vaults. Already, I am hearing and seeing things that proves that many organizations have come to the city. How are you?

Shorak slows his pace slightly, flinching slightly as he hears Larest's voice in his head for the first time. It is an odd sensation.

Hello Professor. We have just arrived at Locksmith Square in Silverwall. Yes, we are discovering the same information. All is well with you, I hope?

Shorak turns towards Belarin/Nerrin, "Master Nerrin, I almost forgot. The Professor sent a message to see how things are faring with us. Do you wish to reply." He somewhat subtly fingers Larest's ring while speaking.

Shorak's brow furrows in concentration. Any message you would like me to relay?

[Ken]

Team B

Jan 16, 2012 11:18:01 GMT -4 Dave B. said:

Shorak turns towards Belarin/Nerrin, "Master Nerrin, I almost forgot. The Professor sent a message to see how things are faring with us. Do you wish to reply." He somewhat subtly fingers Larest's ring while speaking.

"Hrrrrmm," says Nerrin. "Ohhhh, we're doing passably, I suppose," he whines. "You might as well mention that those people back there discussed a third location, just as he had heard."

[Jeff]

Team B

Yes, all is well, Larest answers. And I will have your fee soon, Shorak. I hope you will accept it in the form of platinum? I am not comfortable carrying about too much gold. I would also advise that you open an account with House Kundarak, too, to safeguard your funds.

Of course, to do this you will need identification papers, which House Sivis can provide. They have offices here in the Kundarak enclave.

Also... Shorak senses hesitation in Larest's mental voice.

Shorak, perhaps you can pass along a reminder for me? To Belarin...and the others. The Sivis offices here in the Kundarak enclave include speaking stones. Would you relay this to them? With the speaking stones, they could...contact friends and family back in Sharn. Or elsewhere.

Although he's never seen or used them, Shorak has heard of speaking stones. They are powerful magical devices created by the gnomes of House Sivis, and that only gnomes with the Mark of Scribing can use. Messages can be spoken through the stones from one dragonmarked gnome to another anywhere across the world. It is this method that allows far-ranging communication and even the duplicate printing of popular broadsheets like the Korrenburg Chronicle.

[Dave B.]

Team B

I will pass that on to them. Thank you for that. I'll take care of those details as soon as I can meet up with you. Shorak nods at Nerrin/Belarin's comment. Oh, one more thing. We have heard from a couple of Kundarak nobles that there is a third location for the artifact. We were unable to find out where, but Belarin has started laying the seeds about his map.

He also passes on the information about the speaking stones to Belarin/Nerrin and Redoubt/Adamant. "We need to make sure to let the others know as soon as we can."

[Dave W.]

Team B
Adamant is playing the guard again, staying alert in the busy city.

He notes Belarin's comment about Stormreach and living among the Fey, "You lived among the Fey, sometime you must tell me about it. That must have been a unique experience. They say you have to be careful, the Fey like to make deals."

"I actually could deal with fewer people. Something strange happens when large numbers of people are constrained into a space. There are some who rise to the challenge like the Strekos. But there are also people who come to believe that it is acceptable to kidnap people."

[Jeff]

Team K

The pungent smell of oil and leather overwhelms you as you enter the shop, but it's a very familiar smell to warriors. The interior of the shop is small, but neat and easily arranged. Leather goods are arrayed across the walls and on racks: armor, boots, gloves, helmets, pouches, quivers. Scabbards.

You have only to try out a few.

[Darren]

As Kal is hit in the face with the pungent smell of leather, he is reminded of the numerous strips of it surrounding his right leg. Self-consciously, he tightens a few of the buckles connecting them, then idly browses the wares in the store, waiting for Condign to make his selection.

[Jeff]

Team B

Thank you, Larest answers Shorak. Yes, this alleged "third" location is intriguing. But I am also wondering if it isn't the invention of one of our rivals, devised as a way of thinning the competition. It just may.

It isn't long before you reach the center of Silverwall, which is designated by Eldred's Pool. Shorak's seen it a thousand times, but it still holds some wonder. To Belarin and Adamant, it's quite striking and it dominates the square its in, rising high overhead.

Eldred’s Pool resembles a circular fountain seemingly carved from a single piece of a curious, dark green stone. The outer rim rises two feet off the ground. At the center of the pool sits the object’s most unusual attraction: An abstract sculpture rising out of the basin, seemingly depicting two six-limbed figures standing back to back. Each figure “balances” on one leg, the other crossed over the first, and the first of two pairs of arms meet in the center of each figure’s torso, palm flat against palm, as if in prayer. Each figure’s other pair of arms are raised skyward, palms to the sky, as if hefting a great weight, and each one’s head is a bulbous knot of shiny stone that seems bowed low, as if in supplication.

It's well known to the locales that the figures depicted in the fountain are thri-kreen, and that the city once played host to a colony of these mantis-men from the interior of the Xen’drik wilds. Now only a scattering of thri-kreen come and go to Stormreach. But more interesting is the fact that the fountain is allegedly a beacon of great magical power which no one can seem to identify or harness. It's one of several such sites in the city that Shorak's heard stories about.

Shallow water fills the pool, and some of the local children linger along its edge. Opposite your side of the fountain, you see a small gathering of elves standing close together in discussion. They look Aereni, are grim-faced, and wear cloaks of white and gray. They remind you of Syrdan.

[Joe]

TEAM K

Streko also wanders throughout the store, glancing at several of the items, looking for something that strikes hi fancy, although he isn't entire sure he will buy anything.

[Brian]

Team K

Condign wanders about the leather shop, then stops in front of a rack of long, darkly oiled leather scabbards. He picks up a couple at random and inspects the craftsmanship. They look to be quite well made, and he decides that one from this shop will suffice.

It takes a few minutes before he finds one that fits his broadsword like they were meant for one another.

He signals the shopkeeper. "How much for this one?"

[Jeff]

Team K

The shopkeeper looks up and is about to blurt something, but pauses when he sees who asked. He looks at the tiefling (up and down, taking in his armor, shield, and obvious broadsword), then at the scabbard he's chosen, and smiles.

"A single gold piece, master. Can I interest you in anything else?"

He steps out from around the counter and walks up to one wall. He reaches up and pulls down a leather helmet with subtle designs and excellent tooling, just like the scabbard. "A helm, perhaps?"

Then Condign notices the unusual shape of the helmet. It's been tailored for tieflings, and has openings for horns. He's not seen that sort of armor since leaving the Demon Wastes.

[Ken]

Team B

Belarin has been giving some thought to Larest's suggestion regarding the scrying stones to send a message. But to whom? He briefly considers getting a message to the forger in Sharn: Yes, indeed, miss, Belarin Malizia will return for his "order." But then he dismisses it. Sending an agent of House Sivis to confirm his order for false identification papers might not be the wisest course of action. But it IS the sort of fey-inspired mischief that appeals to him....

Jan 17, 2012 8:02:26 GMT -4 Dave W. said:

He notes Belarin's comment about Stormreach and living among the Fey, "You lived among the Fey, sometime you must tell me about it. That must have been a unique experience. They say you have to be careful, the Fey like to make deals."

"Yes, it was," he says simply. He limps along silently for several seconds before adding, "And yes, they do. We shall discuss this another time indeed... Redoubt."

As they see the bizarre yet fascinating sculpture, Belarin is confident that magic is at work -- aside from its obvious floating nature, that is. Now, however, is not the moment for studying the local attractions.

Spotting the elves, he says softly to his two companions, "Let's amble closer to those happy fellows... or lumber closer, as the case may be. If those elves are anything like Syrdan, they're probably trading favorite undead-slaying tales. We may pick up some gossip about competitors... or better still, plant more disturbing seeds about the Patriot."

He moves closer to the elves, but he keeps his eyes on the sculpture, trying -- without too much difficulty -- to look like an awestruck newcomer.

[Darren]

Kal steps forward, holding out a gold piece for the scabbard. Then he looks down at the helmet and up at Condign, one eyebrow raised in question.

[Brian]

Team K

Condign watches Kal give the shopkeeper a gold coin. He give his friend a solemn, genuine bow. "Thank you, my lord. Truly."

When Kal cocks an eyebrow at the helm, Condign laughs softly and places the helm on his head. He turns his head one way, and then the other. Finally, he peers at Kal and Streko.

"Well," he says impatiently. "Does it make my head look fat?"