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VYOMA
In Alleria

JOURNALS | HOME
Quix
Quix walked into the tavern dressed as his usual self. No need to hide who he was. Quix had plenty of protection and plenty of connection if anything were to happen.

Walking up to the bar and taking a seat he ased the bartender "Can I get an ale...something strong.."

As he waited for the bartender to grant his wish he slowly glanced over the crowd of people and looked each and everyone of them up and down so that he would recgonixze them again if he saw them.

Quix left his ears open hoping to ease drop ito any converstion that sounded like it might mention the Cadre or Dom Giovani.

Vyoma
Brightening 5 of Junctior,
Season Autumn of Era I of the Celestine Mandate
Era X PF Age of the Darkening, Mageocracy of Julos the Mad
Paradigm: Mystique Threatens Rebellious Frigid River


Vyoma was sitting quietly, sipping the ale slowly and looking around. Even he had tried to eavesdrop on conversations but he could not get anything about the Cadre or the person, Don Giovanni. But that was not his job here.

Vyoma had watched the Thane of Riparia, Quix, his guild mate walk in, making no effort to blend in and declared gallantly for a drink. He was here as they had planned after the meeting with their Guild Master. He hoped everything came out well as he had some contribution in the planning and also, this was his first job for the Stone Gaurd Mercenary Guild. His part of the plan here was to only back Quix if he got into any trouble and not do anything pro-actively to get to know of the group, Cadre.

Vyoma gazed around carefully to see if anyone had noticed Quix and saw that many had turned their face at the Thane, atleast momentarily.

All they have to do now is get careless looking at only Quix and diclose the information they needed.

Grunt G'daraka
Grunt walked into the tavern holding a large handful of what looked like letters. He quickly glanced around the room and found a table somewhat near the back but was still partially lit. There he proceeded to spread the letters out on the table. Some letters were opened and carefully read. Others were set aside with barely a glance.

The tavern wench was casually brushed aside when she came to offer food and drink. She very disgustly turned away from Grunt and left him alone for the rest of the night. During the night the pile of letters slowly moved into two seperate piles. The pile with "Reply, presumed dead" hastly written on a scrap of paper grew much faster and larger then the one with "Deliver - alive" written on it.

Grunt steadly worked until he reached the last letter. He spent many moments staring at the name on the letter with a confused look on his face. If one looked close enough they would be able to read the name of the recepiant. There was other writing on the letter, but the writing was so faded that no more than a few letters could be made out.

Vyoma
Vyoma had been sitting there for quite some time watching Quix, but not letting anyone notice he was doing that. But he had to keep an eye out for his guild-mate. Then at the back of his mind, he had a bit of concern as to where his dwarf friend was.

In the beginning of that day, the three of them had decided on which tavern they would come to get to know of the Cadre. They had chosen this one as it was neither a very royal one nor a shabby-dirty-pit. This, they had decided together would be a good place to learn about the Cadre. After that, G'daraka was off to get some letters that could help them in getting the information they were looking for.

To Vyoma's relief, not long after Quix had come G'daraka entered and looked across the room. As he was glancing, he made a very brief sign of recognition that even Vyoma with his elf-eyes found it hard to catch. G'daraka then seemed to walk towards him and then when he thought he would sit with him at the table, he chose the one next to his. Vyoma was disturbed by this action. Then in struck him. The dwarf had shown his intelligence again.

An elf and a dwarf sitting together without much commotion, would definitely attract attention. That was not what they wanted as, then, they would offer much less help to Quix. Vyoma smiled lightly at the realization and quickly hid it with the sip from his mug of ale. Vyoma just kept his vigil for now.

Serendipity
OoC: Thanks for the time stamp, Vyoma :)

The tavern had a heavy air about it. As soon as one walked through the portal, they could feel something pressing down on their chests making it harder for them to breath. The reason? Eras upon eras of smoking and dust. The tavern was anything but well-ventilated. If the three guild members thought they would remain unnoticed, they had another thing coming to them. It wasn't every darkening that new people ventured into this pub. Mainly because it was just so... heavy.

The alcohol was cheap and stale. It would sit in their bellies for brightenings like a stone in a stream. But it was also strong. Just a few sips and they could already feel the effects beginning. Grunt, thankfully, had been the one to abstain from any drinking. At least they would have one lucid member.

There were no conversations going on about the Cadre or Dom Giovanni. People didn't speak about such things in public. To do so was irrational. If a member of the Cadre were to hear someone spouting off information about them, that person would not be fit to see another brightening. This didn't mean to say the Cadre murdered that person. Certainly not. They were much too suave for that. Yes, in their beginnings they had engaged in such lowly acts but now they were more creative; more inventive with their punishments.

A few small snippets of conversation rose above the dull roar of patrons. "Long live the Empire!"

"That thane is a genius I tell ya, a genius!"

"No, no, the pox hasn't gone. Why just yesterbrightening I saw someone in the early stages walking down the street."

"All hail King Underpants!"

Most of it was just silly tavern banter. Drunken mules spouting off the first things that came to their mouths. But even when one is drunk, they know what will get them into trouble... they just sometimes care less than they would if they were sober. All of these patrons had been breastfed on this ale. Which is why they found it very peculiar that on this particular darkening they had not one, but three new faces.

The darkening wore on and no one had made any moves towards any of the new patrons. All three guild members could sense they were being watched and assessed. Finally, a big brute of a man clad in a leather vest slammed his beer on the bar and turned around. The place grew deadly silent. His bald head glistened with sweat. Cool, grey eyes seemed to come alive as he opened his bearded mouth to speak. "It don't seem polite that none o' these newbies done offered to buy a round o' drinks. What're ya doin' here anyways? You with your fancy clothes and clean faces! I challenge all three of ya's to a drinkin' contest. Loser buys the drinks for tha rest of tha darkening. Are ya'll man enough?"

Quix
Quix didnt like the mustyness of the tavern from the smoke. It was a different qualtiy of air..or should he said down graded air.

Quix listened as he heard what silly things came fomr the drunks mouths and paid no hedd to it.

If the Cadre wqhere to be foud then this would be the place to find out about them with such ignorant of drunk men. A drunk man tells no lies.

Quix looked at his clothes as the brute of a man called them fancy clothes. A fish net shirt and some leather pants not to fancy but Quix went with it.

"A drinking contest you say? My friend tonight isnt the night for me to indulge in such a contest."

"You can clearly see I am not one to even compare to you in such a contest. Unless you have smoething to say about the Cadre then get out of space. " As Quix said this he put his hand on his dagger.

Grunt G'daraka
When the commotion began, Grunt started collecting the letters into a very poorly made pouch. Once he got all letters but one secure in the pouch he slowly made his way toward the door. Grunt did not want to abandon his Guildmates, but becoming involved with this would drastically hurt his chances of completing the mission. Vyoma and Quix would be able to defend themselves. At least this was what Grunt hoped was true.

Grunt stoped near the door to listen to the man. "Fancy clothes and clean faces" Looking down at his ragged clothing, Grunt could not help a small chuckle. This man was challenging them to a drinking contest? Grunt wanted to take the man up on that offer, but restrained himself due to the mission. Grunt was sure he could outdrink anyone here. He was a dwarf, a dwarf who had been a beggar for most of his life. He had drunk bad ale more often then water, milk or any other liquid.

Vyoma
Vyoma did feel a bit uneasy with the ale he had been sipping. He had hardly taken anything, but the little amount what he had sipped off seemed to threaten to get a burning sensation in his stomach any moment from now. Then he heard the big brute with bearded mouth speak and challenge them of the drinking contest.

Drinking contest!

Vyoma would drop dead if he took to huge mug in his hand and gulped it down his throat. Vyoma had taken less drink in his short elfin life that he had lived. That would be because, he was a orphan but had a decent life. One would not get drunk and do odd jobs now, would one? Moreover the drink he had taken earlier were mostly elfin ale, more replenishing than getting any one stoned.

Vyoma got a bit worried. His plan was swept down the river Juliana. He had hoped that at least the two of them would remain unnoticed, but not only had they attracted attention, they were likely associated together. Then he heard Quix reject the challenge.

Good. A drunk one is a useless one!

Just as Quix did this he saw that G'daraka had collected all the letters and with that he got off his table. Vyoma expected him to go and stand by Quix but was surprised to see him walk to the door.

Betrayal!

A string of rage crossed through Vyoma's face realizing that G'daraka was abandoning his Guild-mates. But as fast as the rage had come, it subsided, realizing that he had much trouble at hand and also to the fact that G'daraka was unarmed. Even if Vyoma had no formal training with his dagger, he had it for long and did not even remember how he found it.

Something in the letter?

This could be the reason why G'daraka was trying to leave, Vyoma thought. Vyoma ignored a bit about G'daraka and focused on Quix. He had uttered the word Cadre and was ready to face whatever would come. Vyoma tended to walk towards Quix and join him, but stopped recollecting their plan. Then, again, he realized that the three of them are already associated as one. Moreover, he looked at Quix and saw that his back was uncovered.

Vyoma quickly walked up to him, to the uncovered back. He noticed Quix had put his hand on his dagger.

Hope he knows how to use it for good...

Vyoma turned around and was back to back with Quix looking around for any unexpected attack on his guild mate from unexpected quarters. Vyoma put his own hand on his own dagger, which was there on his waist, ready to remove it.

Hope the essence of Diana would guide his dagger!

Serendipity
The commotion in the tavern stopped at the mention of Cadre. That wasn't a very subtle thing for Quix to say. There were better ways of making investigations. The tavern became eerily silent as all eyes went to the newcomers. The only sound was breathing. At this moment a stampede of angry cabbits could come flying through the tavern and no one notice. Their attention was focused entirely on the foolish elf who had mentioned that name.

"If ya don't already know, then you aren't goin' to know." The big man stated bluntly. His eyes moved to the elf's hands and noticed he was placing them on a weapon of some sort. "Ya plannin' on fightin' the whole lot of us?" He asked with a slight chuckle. The rest of the patrons joined in the farce.

"There be nothin' you or your friend can do to make any of us say anythin' about that group that we don't want to be sayin'. And in this here tavern, we don't speak about them." No one made a move towards Quix or Vyoma. Or to their friend who had smartly decided to leave. No one reached for any weapons. They were all stone solid and kept their glares on the two.

Grunt G'daraka
While Grunt was standing by the door listening to this he began thinking that his guild mates and friends were finding themselves in worse and worse danger. He felt the impulse to help them, but also the common sense to stay out of it for the sake of the mission and due to his lack of weaponry and training. This struggle kept him standing by the door during the confrontation neither leaving nor rushing to the side of his friends.

When the already declining atmosphere of the tavern turned to almost inescapable violence, Grunt decided that the only way to avoid a tavern brawl and the possibility of the death of his guild mates was to intervene. He took a step back into the tavern.

”I do not want to get involved with whatever is happening here.” Grunt looked at Quix, “I do not know about this Cadry you speak of. If you need help finding things about them I might agree to help. For a fee of course.” Grunt turned to the big man, “I am sorry for not buying drinks for everyone. You see, that is why I am here. I have no money and the only job I have been able to find is this one with the census. Maybe one of you would be able to help me.” Grunt glanced around the tavern and down at the letter in his hand. “I have these old letters to citizens of Medonia. I try to find if the person they are sent to is still alive. However, I have this one letter that I have no clue where to even begin. I do not know if this person is even alive or dead. His name is…” Grunt read from the letter. ”Giovanni. A, uh, Don Giovanni. Does anyone know where I can find him, or if he is even still alive?”

Grunt hoped that what he said separated him from his guild mates while still protecting them and providing the information that he needed. Hopefully, at the worst they would all walk out of the tavern alive. At best, maybe they would bring Giovanni to Epic. Well, Grunt could hope.

Ooc: I did not misspell the Cadre, Grunt mispronounced it.

Quix
Quix listened to the brute of a man. "I take it your work with the Cadre or Dom Giovanni?"

Quix heard what Grunt said and was somewhat displeased in him but then again Quix knew what Grunt was trying to do.

"The is you can help me then maybe we can leave. Unless anyone in here wants to step up." Quix was clearly wanting to get in a brawl with the man next to him but not the whole lot inside the tavern.

As Quix looked over at Vyoma ,with his hand still on his dagger, and was begining to conjure up the spell Force Bolt to use if nessecary on the man who challenged him to a drinking contest.

Vyoma
What happened was uncalled for! Vyoma just hoped that G'daraka would just walk out. He had no training in combat. As a matter of fact even Vyoma did not. But atleast he would be alive in a friend's heart. Vyoma was about to say something unpleasing to G'daraka, just to show to the others in the tavern that the two had nothing to do with him. But before he could Quix spoke out. May be it would do no good. Now that G'daraka had uttered the name, no matter what would follow, the three were in it together.

Vyoma was about to think on what to do but Quix seemed to take the initiative. He seemed to be a initiate in sorcery. Vyoma knew this somehow as he saw him conjure for some kind of spell, atleast getting ready for it.

Vyoma just waited, breathing slowly, containing himself.
Aqua
The leader of the group of thugs laughed at Grunt's question. "Giovanni? The Big Boss? Oh, he's alive all right -- more alive than any of you new kids are likely to be if you don't clear out right now."

He then turned his attention to Quix. "'Taint none of your business who I work for or who I don't work for. Not unless you'se got something of interest to propose. And, given that you've just wandered into here and gone on talking about things ya ain't supposed to talk about, just like you were talking about the weather or something, I'm guessing you don't have much of interest to say."

Then he wheeled and turned on Vyoma. "And you, elf-boy, what are you looking at? I've taken a disliking to you. Tell you what...I'll give you a minute's head start. Better start running now." He spoke tauntingly, mockingly.

The rest of the crowd murmured, but didn't move forward, seemingly waiting for a signal from their leader.

Grunt G'daraka
Grunt's eyes lit up when the leader said that Giovanni was alive. Now he needed to get more information. He had this plan when he walked in. It was risky, but hopefully he would live through it. Anyway noone knew who he was. Hopefully it would work.

"He is alive? Great! If I could ask one of you to take me to him? I don't have much money, but I could pay you a small amount for your trouble. I have this letter to give to him, plus I do need to verify he is alive with my own eyes."

He was now past the point of no return. Grunt would keep playing the poor and ignorant newcomer. Looking around the room Grunt tried to see any hint in the faces of the rest of the crowd. He turned back to the leader and waited hoping that Vyoma and Quix were there to keep him alive if things turned ugly.

Quix
Quix still kept his spell ready at hand but went along with what Grunt had said.

"I am merely a messenger such as my friend here. I am to occanpany him wherevere he may go to get his job done." Quis said with a bit more calmness then before as he motioned twards Grunt

Grunt G'daraka
What was he trying to do? Grunt wondered as he listnened to what Quix was saying. Grunt definitly was glad to have a friend at his side around these criminals, but Grunt could get much farther and possibly find much more by himself. But if they both went it would definitly be twice as easy to get information. Grunt would play along with Quix. This might turn out better then he thought.

Sliding to a nearby chair Grunt slumped into it muttering, "Always sending people to check up on me! Why can't they just let me do my own job for once! I can do...."

Quix
Quix turned and looked at Grunt as he seemed to mumble something.

"What did I tell you Grunt!" "This is an important job that must be done! I told you over and over to get this job done quick because it has been lingering for the longest of ages and the council isn't happy with me because of you!"

Quix yelled hoping Grunt wouldn't take it to personally he was meerly just trying to play on his emtions to try to get somewhere.

Quix still kept an eye on the man who had seemed to be the leader of the crimainal bunch.

Grunt G'daraka
Quix's yelling at first startled Grunt, but fortunately it wasn't hard for Grunt to soak in the anger that was flowing out of Quix and begin slumping even more into his chair. As if by rote, Grunt began replying to what Quix was yelling.

"Yes sir. I will do better sir. Yes sir. I will make you proud sir...."

As he continued to slump Grunt began to focus on a line of ants marching by his feet. As Quix continued to berate him Grunt began to turn his attention from what Quix was saying to whatever sounds or conversation he could hear throughout the tavern. He continued to watch the ants as if he had completely retreated from what was happening in the tavern but let his ears pick up whatever clues he could.

Aqua
The big man who was the leader of the thugs in the tavern looked at the Thëlyri and the Dwarf with the air of someone who isn't buying what he is seeing. After watching their interchange, he spoke up. The gang at his back kept an amused eye on the proceedings.

"You must take us for fools, strangers," he said with a malevolent chuckle. "As if the Big Boss would be getting anything important in the mail." He said the word with obvious disdain. "As if you could expect us to believe that you come in here asking about the cadre when you're really the census fellow's supervisor. You'll have to do better than that if you want to make it in Medonia, strangers."

He turned to the crowd at his back. "What shall we do, boys?" A host of suggestions came back at him.

"String them up!"

"Bash their heads in!"

"Tie them up and poke them with sharp sticks!"

After listening to all this, the big man said, "The barkeep, old Mel, he's a friend of mine. Now, I don't really want him to have to do any more work than he needs to. I don't really want him to have to clean anything -- or anyone -- off the floor. So I'll ask you one last time, strangers. Are you gonna leave quietly? I'll give you a minute. After that -- well, you heard what the boys said. I'm only one man. I can't hold them off you forever." He gave the same evil laugh.

The crowd, which must have numbered at least twenty men by now, turned as one to look at the trio of strangers.

Quix
Quix was enraged. Not at Grunt but himself. He basically spoiled everything here. Quix was only one person as well and his Force-Bolt spell could only take one person if he even hit them or he could just set the whole place on fire. Quix didn't want to endanger Grunt or himself more then he already did.

"Grunt, I'm sorry but I think we should leave. He's right." as Quix spoke he motioned to the man who had been speaking to them the whole time.

Quix waited for Grunt and then slowly began backing towards the door as he clenched his turtle spear and held Force-Bolt ready.
Grunt G'daraka
Grunt looks from the leader to the mob to Quix and around again. It probably is best to leave as quickly as possible. It's a shame they didn't get any information out of this night, but there will always be another. At least they are being allowed to leave alive. That is always a good thing.

Slowly getting up Grunt nods toward Quix. If only there was something else he could do. Grunt quickly walked over to the leader. "I am sorry for whatever happened here." Grunt glanced back at Quix then quickly whispered to the leader so Quix would not be able to overhear. "Don't tell him, but please give this letter to Giovanni." Grunt quickly handed the letter to him and walked over to Quix by the door.

Aqua
True to their word -- surprisingly enough -- the gang of toughs allowed the newcomers to leave without attempting to jump them. They were cruel, yes, but they were also lazy, and they weren't going to fight unless it was needed.

The leader snatched the letter angrily from Grunt but said nothing, nor did he move. He probably would have punched the dwarf for his persistance, but as Quix was already leaving, he figured that Grunt would probably follow quickly -- a supposition that proved correct.

As the strangers walked out the door, they could hear the toughs shouting amongst themselves.

"We showed them, didn't we Joe?"

"Serves 'em right, the little sneaks!"

"We shoulda jumped 'em anyway."

The air was cool outside, and the street almost deserted as the strangers left the tavern. They would have to try another way, another day.

Quix
Quix was rather disappointed about how things had gone inside the tavern. It didnt matter too much though, they would just have to try elsewhere and hope for better luck and perhaps approach things a bit different this time.

"Grunt, I am sorry for what happened in there, I wasn't trying to make myself bigger then you or anything of that matter. I guess I'm glad we left there alive...tonight." QUix said as he looked around at the tavern. He hopped to find perhaps a basement or something of that matter that they could sneak in.

"I hate to resort to this but maybe we should block the doors into and out of the tavern and set it a fire....maybe we could get some of them to talk, if not...well, we know they work for the Cadre so it wouldnt be that big of a loss to human life or any other race for that matter. Quix whispered to Grunt hoping he would mistaken Quix for a criminal.

Grunt G'daraka
Grunt half listened to Quix as he thought about what they could do next. Fire? No they wouldn't set fire to that place even if all those in there are scum. There would be too much of a chance of damaging a neighboring building or harming some innocent person. Looking back at Quix, Grunt opened his mouth to suggest possibly staying to follow the leader when he left when he caught sight of a young street urchen slinking out of the alley next to the tavern.

Storming over to him, Grunt yanked the poor, helpless lad off his feet by what ever clothes he was wearing and demanded the truth out of him. "What do you know about this tavern? What have you heard of the Cadre? Tell me now boy before I make you wish you were never born!"

Still holding the terrorfied boy dangling above the ground Grunt, without turning his eyes, called, "Quix, prepare your most painful truth spell. If this boy doesn't volunteer what he knows, he will suffer! And boy, if you happen to die, there are still ways to get what we want and you don't want to know what that will do to your soul!"

Ooc: this is what happens when I have a 'fun' day of teaching!!

Aqua
OOC: Careful...in a modded thread, that's something of a bunny...though as someone who used to be a teacher myself, I certainly sympathize...

IC: Upon closer inspection, the boy proved to be no more than six or seven, probably too young for the purposes of Grunt and Quix. He looked up at them with wild, frightened eyes. He had smudges of dirt on his face, and ragged, tousled hair.

"I don't know nothin' mister!" He made a snuffling sound. "It's just a tavern. Don't know nothin' about no Cadre, but...but...but I hope they get you, whoever they are!"

He was starting to cry, but a strange light came into his eyes, and he bit Grunt on the arm, drawing two tiny points of blood. In the confusion that naturally followed immediately thereafter, he scampered away as fast as his little legs would carry him, back down the alley, screaming "Mommy! Mommy! Mommy!"

His cries faded into the darkness, and the regular sounds of the night returned. The inside of the tavern had quieted down, with only occasional shouts and the noise of clinking glasses reaching the pair who stood on the darkened street.

Grunt G'daraka
Grunt let a curse out and rubbed his arm well the little retch bit him. Looking up he saw the boy vanish around a corner calling for his mother. He hoped this didn't lead to even more problems for them but knowing the way the night's gone so far, he wouldn't be too surprised.

Also he probably should have handled questioning the boy better. It is just that after everything that happened today he was or actually is rather annoyed. With all the time he spent gathering those letters and writing the one letter to Giovanni he thought they would at least be able to get some small piece of information out of the night. How big is this Cadre? Are they so large that every tavern dwelling person is a part of it?

Still feeling some sting from where the boy bit him Grunt watched Quix looking around the tavern. "What are you looking for? Do you think there are more urchins around here? Someone has to have heard or know something."

Vyoma
OOC: Sorry for the delayed reply. Real life problems. You guys seem to have had a great roleplaying session. I think I can join in here again without causing any problems.

IC:
Vyoma just followed his guild-mates out of the tavern. Nothing was in his control here. The other two were on their own ways, treading their own path. Without any proper planning and acting on things as they came up. And when they realized they try to tie everything together but the knots were not firm enough. He just kept on their sides, hoping he could be of any help on whatever they pull on to themselves.

Vyoma just sighed when G'daraka almost tormented the young one. He just gazed at the other, searching their eyes, for answers as to how they would move from this point. They were back to square one. They now atleast knew that the Cadre existed and Giovani was the boss. It was the information they knew but now to talk of it would be like stating and restating the obvious.

Aqua
If there were any more little snot-nosed brats running around taverns after their bedtimes, the child's cries seemed to have scared them all away. No angry parents came running up to the trio of friends demanding an explanation -- but no one came at all. There was, quite literally, no one else in sight.

There was only the soft glow of the tavern lights and the occasional noise from inside. Had all the inhabitants of the tavern been Cadre members? Or were they simply so frightened of the tavern that none of them were willing to open their mouths and talk about it? It was certainly big enough that they had all known about it.

Really, considering the danger of the situation inside, it was something of a relief that noone had been damaged in any way. Other than wounded pride, no harm had been done. But if they wanted any more information, it was unlikely that such information would be found at this tavern this darkening.

At least it was now a pleasant evening -- warmer than might have been expected and with a gentle, soft breeze.

Vyoma
The three of them stood there silently for a while, not knowing what to do. All of them were thinking hard on what to do next. They were in a situation where one would walk for long when lost in a forest and later realize they have come to the point where they have started.

Then, all of a sudden, Vyoma let out a chuckle and turned to his guild mates. The whole episode of this investigation had started with G'daraka forging that letter. "Well, friends, it may not seem that we have lost everying. We do have a ray of hope..." G'daraka had given the letter to that huge man, the leader of the thugs. "The hope lies in the fact that huge man in there with a not so huge head, would be scared enough of losing a information that would be considered as important for his boss, Giovanni. Think about it. If we were that low-life, would we risk on losing the information and later repent."

Vyoma looked around at his guild-mates and they did not seem to understand what he was getting at, "The point is my friends, that man in there, if he is not dumb as he seems, cannot resist the urge of going and showing the letter to his boss. So, what I say is, we hide around here, and we can hope that the man would go straight to Giovanni. Then, all we have to do is follow him discreetly and the very least is that we would be able to get the location of Giovanni's house. And say it is worse, I am sure that man works for Giovanni, and we atleast could get to know where he lives. We can then tell the Guild Master, who is the Constable also. There can be further investigation if required."

Vyoma stood quietly looking at his guildmate, letting them sink in the information he gave. They would, at best get the location of Giovanni's house and at worse, one of his henchmen's locaiton.

Quix
Quix thought about Vyoma's idea. it could work but then again it might not. "Its worth a try but then again we just might get ourselves into a heap of trouble trying it that way as well.....in that case , lets do it. I personally wouldnt mind some interigation work with that guy. I would just love to set this place a blaze." Quix said to Voyma waiting for Grunt's thoughts. While he was waiting Quix started looking around to see if there wasnt a way to climb ontop of the roof. Why?, Quix wasnt sure why he just thought it might be a good idea.

Grunt G'daraka
After asking Quix what he was looking for Grunt retreated back into his thoughts. Thoughts about the Cadre and what happened in the tavern tonight. He hoped to remember some little clue or something to tell him what they should do next. Staring down at a smashed and broken mug a thougt struck him. The leader had challenged them to a drinking contest! Grunt had wanted to accept but chose not to so he would not blow his cover. However, the guy did see right through it...maybe if he went back in and accepted his challenge. If he won, they'd tell him all they know of the Cadre. If he lost, he'd pay for all their drinks. He had hoped not to spend all of Epic's money so quickly, but he would just make sure he did not loose.

A couple steps into his walk toward the door what Vyoma said finally sunk in. Yes, that was his plan from the beginning, but the lead saw right through it! He's probably already destroyed the letter. And they can always follow him after one last try. Plus the leader would be rather drunk and not to coherent and observant of people following him. But if he has any suspicion the letter is even close to real, then he might take it to Giovanni just to make sure. Then if he read the letter he probably would go straight to Giovanni. Grunt spent many hours writing this letter to seem very real, at least somewhat important and not easily disproven. Vyoma was right. Watching would be best.

Grunt looked from Vyoma to the alley to Quix now for some reason crawling on the roof. "Vyoma, Let's hope he does as you say. Quix, keep a watch from up there. I'll make myself blend into the street here. Vyoma, you can use the alley there or some place to keep hidden. Make yourself comfortable. Who knows when he will leave."

Grunt walked over to an alley across from the tavern. Pulling together trash and other refuse by the street he made himself a little bed. Before he climbed into his new 'home' he took a few moments to dirty himself up and add a few more rips to his clothes. Pulling a few papers and other bags over him he settled down with one eye cracked open watching the entrance to the tavern. Anyone looking in this direction would only see another pile of trash. If they looked really close they would only think it was a homeless bum or, since this city was infested with the plague, another dead or dieing corpse. He might have been lying there motionless but his thoughts were far from dormant. He kept thinking about what happened in the tavern and what might happen later tonight. It helped him plan for what to do next, plus once the night wears on it will help keep him awake. As of now the first thought in his head is that now he really will need to purchase some new clothing.

Vyoma
"OK G'daraka, you do that. And Quix, you might aswell keep an eye out from that roof top. Signal us, when you see that leader of the scum pack comes out. We can then follow him."

Vyoma then looked around and say Grunt hide himself. Even after knowing where he was, it was hard for Vyoma to easily catch up where the dwarf was hiding. Vyoma walked down the alley, and opposite to where Grunt was hiding, there was a small space between two buildings.

Vyoma knew well that he woud not do as well as the dwarf and so he entered the dark space between the two buildings. He did see few barrels stacked up when he squinted his eyes, even in the seemingly unpiercable darkness. He perched over the barrel and faced the alley. His light frame not even making creaking sound on the barrels. If he had been good enough, he would not even have left his foot prints on the dirt on the top of the barrells.

Aqua
The side of the building that housed the tavern was made out of worn stone. The walls were very irregular, and as such afforded many excellent handholds. Quix would be able to arrive on the roof with minimal difficulty.

The crowd in the tavern seemed to be very intent on drinking themselves into oblivion, as several rather uncomfortable candlemarks passed for the hidden trio with only a few stray people -- and no one of any interest -- moving in and out of the doors.

Finally, the call could be heard distinctly from the inside, "Okay everyone, closing time. Let's move it on out. See you later all. Good darkening to you." With that, people began leaving. Most of them were in varying states of deep intoxication. The crowd, lurching and shuffling along the dirty road, resembled nothing so much as a herd of zombies, come to feast on the flesh of the living. They smelled almost that bad too.

The "ringleader" left by himself, though he was surrounded by other drunks who were also leaving the building. As Grunt had suspected, he was very, very drunk. Even if he hadn't destroyed the letter already, he was unlikely to go looking for Giovanni in such a state.

He didn't seem to be particularly worried about anyone following him -- although probably with good reason, since he looked like a fierce fighter who would be difficult to subdue, even when drunk. He took no notice of the concealed Quix, Grunt, and Vyoma.

He walked along a short way, then jogged onto a residential street. He opened the gate. There was a huge, mean-looking dog in the yard, but he simply yelled at it in a slurred voice, "Chopper! Whatcha doin', ya mutt!" He stopped at a small house on a corner, and fumbled in his pocket for the keys. After a couple tries, he retrieved the proper key and stuck it in the lock. The sign in front of the house read 649 Ernest Road.

Grunt G'daraka
After the leader walked past Grunt waited until he felt it was a good time to pull himself out of the trash. He took a short time to straighten his clothing as much as he possibly could before motioning to his comrades that he was going to follow the ringleader.

Grunt was very thankful that the leader was drunk. It made it very easy to follow him plus he never noticed the occasional noise that Grunt made.

After he saw him enter the house Grunt ducked back around the corner. Now they knew where the man lived. Epic would be glad for this information, but they also had a chance here to get more information out of him while he was still drunk. However, they had no clue who else lived in this house. Grunt highly doubted he lived alone.
"Vyoma, Quix, What do you think we should do now?" Grunt's decision on the matter kept switching. Should they enter the house and find out more or get this information to Epic. Grunt saw good and possibly dangerous aspects of both decisions. It all depended on knowing things they wouldn't know until they did one of them.

Vyoma
The three of them followed the drunkard and he led them to his abode, and it was 649 Ernest Road. This is a important information indeed.

Earlier, as Vyoma had told them, his plan was to get this address to Epic and they were lucky they got it. Epic could handle it from here more easily.

But again, it may be late or Epic might just know about it already. Epic had told that he knew nothing, but at the mention of the name Giovanni, he had said that he knew that but had forgotten to mention. So, he might as well have forgotten to mention this address to them. It might have been a test Epic had formulated for the three of them, to know if they were worthy of the Stone Gaurd Mercenary Guild.

Vyoma, though had a confusion in his mind. The could be getting this information to Epic, or getting more information from the drunkard. Even in the stoned state, the man looked like it would be difficult for any one of them to subdue.

"I am still unsure of it, mates. We could get back to Epic and give him this address, or we could go in and get something more out of him to tell to Epic. But again, if we do so, we have to be careful. If that guy has any information worth the Cadre, it would raise a alarm. And also, he seems to be quite capable. Quix, what do you say? You have some arcana skills to do this business silently?"

Quix
OOC; This will be my only post until prolly Jan 7? until then Aqua you may use Quix as an NPC or you may control him until then. Be nice PLZ :)

IC: Quix watched as the drunks left the tavern. he wnated revenge for being made a fool of. He took note of the address...649 Ernest Road.
"No , unfortuantely I do not have any spells that could take care of this unless we want to barbeque the dog" Quix said with a laugh. "Perhaps we should report back to Epic and see what he wants to do from there. If we go furthur we may be charged with crimes and since epic is the law it would be rather better to alert him before we contiune or search." Quix said as he stood up to try to look and see if there was any other ways of entrance into the gated area.

Vyoma
"Well, yes it would be a crime to trespass. If we were freelancing, I would not be bothered about the minor transgression, but as you have said, it is Captain of the Constables, Epic, who has got us on this one. More over, it would be difficult for Epic, if we get caught up in this. I did not think of it that way while thinking about the two sides. Now it seems, the weight on the balance for reporting to Epic has become quite heavy. Yes, now I feel, we need to report back to Epic. Then, he has both the power and exprience to decide what to do."

Grunt G'daraka
OOC: eh, this is going to be short and crappy...I apologize beforehand...

IC:

Once Grunt heard that Quix had no spells for this situation Grunt's mind was already made up. However, hearing his elf friend's explanation almost made him laugh. Elves and their flowery language. All the words in the world would never be better than a quick and to the point statement. suppressing a chuckle Grunt said, "I agree. I'll leave a message for Epic at headquarters. I need to go by there anyway. See you at the house, Vyoma." At that, Grunt turned and walked on down the street. Hopefully he would make it back before day break.

ooc: Aqua, regarding the letter. Did the leader read it? Is it destroyed? Basicly do you need to know what it says?

Aqua
IC: Well, the trio seemed to have made up their minds not to try to infiltrate the man's house. While that was the course of action that required the most self-control, it was also the one least likely to get any or all of the maimed or killed. That large dog, after all, looked extremely vicious -- and, as Grunt had observed, they had no idea who might be in the house besides the drunken lout they had followed from the tavern.

Although Quix searched carefully, he found no other entrance to the house save by the gate. This fact appeared to be the final nail in the coffin of the idea of breaking in.

The night seemed calm, and the streets were quiet. They would likely have no trouble going home, or to the Constable's office, or wherever else they wanted to go.

OOC: I think that's the end of this thead. If you decide to tell Epic the address, go to his office and post there. I can mod another thread for him and/or you if y'all decide to act on that information.
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