No News is Good News.

1st Malleus, Rowen, 605 AR.

The party was starting to make a home for itself now in Five Fingers. Gaunt was renting a shop from which he could ply his trade. With the patronage of Mr. Kaydor there was a small if steady stream of merchants and lesser nobles coming in to enquire about his goods and service, for he specialised in unique and delicate items of fine craftsmanship, novelties for the rich one might say. The rent was high but he usually made enough to cover it by selling one or two items while repairing others. The shop was on the fourth floor of a largely residential building, the landlady, like all landladies everywhere, was something of a tyrant. Below there was a tailors while the ground floor was occupied by a café, though its food was sometimes questionable. The protection money was paid every month to a gang belonging to Riordan. Though this irked the party there was little thy could do about it, especially if they wished the continued luxury of living.

Aoima began to acquaint herself with more higher class gentlemen and was often seen on the arm of many a wealthy merchant and young lordling eager to be seen with such an educated and wondrous beauty. She also began to spend increasing amounts of time at the Halfmoon Club, rather taken with its owner Nestor, whom she enjoyed polite conversation and occassional flirting with. Viktor who had continued to work as a watchman for various warehouses soon resigned and one day while talking to Vimes in a wine sink saw Tok, greeting his old friend he enquired as to the others of their party, learning that things were going well he followed Tok back to the shop and was once again reacquainted with all his old comrades.

The Druid continued his lectures in the public gardens of the Nobles District and was attracting quite a following amongst the more educated of the area.

Ogrim regularly attended the Cathedral of Morrow to pay visits to his good friend the Cleric who of course was administering to the needy of the city, as well as having to regularly clean and repair the cathedral and churches of the city from regular Thamarite abuse.

Sam Vimes continued to assist the Shankers and apparead in regular street battles, extortion, racketeering and other criminal activities. He impressed Walter so that he was introduced to Walter’s superior, a one Chester Berk. He struck a cord with Chester and was well liked. He had found his place and was enjoying the lifestyle, often drinking and gambling the days away with his gang mates at the Leaky Bucket.

One evening while sitting about the shop, which had acquired a sign out side informing the general public of Guant’s Emporium and a second sign advertising the headquarters of The Reapers Company, the party was drinking and talking after the close of the trading day. There came a knock at the door. Heading over Thalan opened it. There was a gobber there with a set of harnesses and a big white envelope. He asked if they were the Reapers and then finding that they were handed over the letter in return for a silver piece.

The letter informed the party that they were to meet Kaydor the following evening to discuss a rather urgent matter. The party, ever happy to do business with Kaydor and to earn his continued favour and the wealth it might bring decided to attend the meeting. The following day after concluding any outstanding business the party met up at Kaydor’s mansion, weapons were not permitted as per usual. There also seemed to be several more bodyguards walking about the premises than they had previously seen. The reason for this was soon revealed, the party was soon granted entrance to see Kaydor in his office. He was dressed in a very fine eveningwear outfit. It surely must have cost 500 crowns at least. Turning to them having made use of a mirror to do up his bow-tie, Kaydor informed them in a rather angry mood that the needed to slanderous pamphleteers silenced, and silenced in a discrete way. He informed them that these vile jealous and slanderous dogs were muddying his good name with vile rumours of criminal activity and witchcraft. Not only this but thy cast aspersions to his relationship with the Lady Asenath Sacrrow. The Lady was indeed a friend of his and often a business associate, but nothing more, certainly not the filth that these writers were spreading. He promised them 750 crowns apiece to take care of the matter and persuade the authors of these lies to stop. The party discussed it for a little while, there was concern over having to kill them but if they could be intimidated or injured slightly then they were sure that would do. The took the job. Thanking them greatly he told them that his Butler had all the details in a file and that he would see to the matter for now. Bidding them good evening he accompanied them out. Entering from the front door was a woman, tall and raven haired, an image of beauty and refinement clothed in a scandalously low cut, clinging and lkeg revealing purple and black silk dress. This was the Lady Asenath Scarrow whom Kaydor was accompanying to the Opera that night. Greeting the party she proceeded to thank them for helping Mr Kaydor and mentioned that she had heard much about them over the last week or two. She hoped that she too might find some use for their skills in the future. Guant was pleased by this prospect for she was not only attractive but rich and had connections throughout the city. The party then proceeded to help Thalan put his tongue back in his mouth and lift his jaw from the tiled floor where it had been quite happily resting at the sight of Miss Scarrow. His hear beat for joy at here mere presence, he had seen an image of pure beauty and was forever changed. The Butler handed the file over to the party as they left. It turned out that the printers of the pamphlets were located on Crab Beggar Island, a horrible poor rundown seedy little backwater of the city. Thus an ideal place to set up relatively unnoticed for nobody cared about the place and its inbred locals.

The next day having breakfeasted well, and having to listen to Thalan drone on about the wonderful Asenath Scarrow, the party chartered a boat to take them to Crab Beggar Island. The ships owner was surprised by their choice of destination but it was their money and their time so why not. Vikto had required some convinving to take the job on but after being told the people were evil and doing bad things he quickly gave in.

The arrived on the rather dingy and downtrodden island. The locals much resembeld tgheir surroundings., depressed and rather gray. Paying the boatman and telling him to wait for them the party headed into the rats nest of streets and allyes that criss crossed the poorest of the cities islands. The locals responded to a flas of silver and gold and were quick to inform the party as to the location of the printers. They were located in a basement below a small block of apartments. The stairs lead down to a rather well reinforced metal door. This was qucikly dealt with by Ogrim who delivered a few well placed kicks and blows with his mighty shoulder and iron clad boots. Entering the printing works they at first found what appeared to be an office come living area, desks chairs and cots mingled amongst the vast sheaves of paper with hasitly inscribed notes and broadsheet layout plans. Other than that the room was empty. The party proceeded to the next door, lcated to their left. Thalan, Viktor and Ogrim opened the door with a bit of effort and entered the second room, the other began to leaft through the chests and draws in the office. The second room was filled by a large clockwork contraption, no doubt the printing device itself, and all the other assorted paraphanalia. The entered and began to search, quickly noticng two rather cowardly looking printers hiofing in the corner, billy clubs ready to defend themselves. An almighty boom then filld their ears. Jagged pieces of metal smacked into Gesira and Viktor, knocking them forwards. Looking behinf them they saw that the third printer had hidden on a ledge above the door and hand unloaded a blunderbuss into them, fortunately their greatcoats saved them form any real harm except a few bruises and scratches. Thalan in his hurry fired and missed while Viktor swung up his warhammer ctahcing the fellow in the leg and bringing him to ground level. A few kicks later and he was out of it. The other two printer spurred on by their friend's actions launched at the party but were quickly sundued. Ogrim, Tok and Gaunt quickly got to work on dismantling the press, searching for any useful parts. Thalan continued his investigations into their files. Unbeknonst to them Vikto had taken the blunderbus man outside into the office. Having regained conciousness he bit Viktors leg and made a break for the door. Viktor was fatser and caved in the mans skull, ending his journalistic career. Proceeding to the press room where the others were bound he used mekanics torch to heat up the head of his warhammer, convinently emblazoned with a Menofix. He them proceeded to brand the nefarious types, much to the dismay of the others party members.

Having concluded their work the party left the back up the stairs, where they met an old lady, carrying an umbrella, none felt inclined to tangle with the crone who proceeded to give them a verbal bashing on all the noise they were making. They got back in their boat and returned to the nicer parts of th city. The following day they went to see Mr Kaydor who paid them accordingly, and promised them more work in the future.

Getting to Know the Neighbours

2nd Gorim, Cinten, 605 AR.

The party had a meeting at 2.00pm to go and see Mr. Sebastian Kaydor, entrepeneur, philanthropist, patron of the arts and general alround swell guy. Dressing in their realtive best they all set out for the meeting. Kaydor possessed a large and impressive red brick house on Captians Island, it had a fence of wrought iron and a small garden out front. Knocking on the door the party was recieved by Kaydor's butler who having enquired to their business let them in and told them to wait in the foyer until Mr Kaydor was ready to receive them. Weapons were not permitted so they had to leave the at the door, the Butler assured them that they would be quite safe. There they sat for a good half hour until finally yhey were admitted to Kaydor's study after he had finished conducting some business with a group of Hooga merchants. They had noticed apart from the usual servants that one would expect to fins in a house of this size, that there were also a number of heavily ste and well armed gentlemen, no doubt bodyguards.

Kaydor welcomed them into his nicely furnished office. It was large with big bay windows, bookshelves lined the walls as did painting, several of Kaydor himself. Greeting them he inquired to how thery were finding life in Five Fingers. The idle chit chat continued and finally they got down to business. Kaydor needed some help reaquiring certain goods that had been taken from him, or rather that were ntio being returned to him. He had provided the money for various Jack parts that had been imported itno the city for a friend. This friend had then gone bankrupt and Kaydor as a creditor wished the Jack parts returned. However the problem came when the wharehouse owner refused to let the good be removed utnil all the paperwork had been completed and that he go word from his superiors. Thjis was unacceptable to Kaydo who had even recieved soem abuse from the foreman and his cronies when he tried to claim the goods earlier. He wanted the party to aquire the parts for him, for which he would pay 500 gold pieces, provide a small shop for Gaunt aswell as spread the name of the Reapers and attempt to send some business Gaunts way. Finding this acceptable the party quickly concluded business with Kaydor and went on their way to inform the others.

Viktor in the meantime was enjoying his new job acting as a nightwatchman for wharehouses. The pay was better than the last place and he was helping to prevent crime. His boss came over to him and informed him that they had had some trouble as of late and were expecting more. Gangs working for Captian Riordan were expected to make a raid on some of these wharehouses, they being run byt Captain Hurley, thus more men would be drafted in.

Vimes was doing well with his new freinds. He had had a few encounters with some gangs working for Riordan, there had been a couple of street fights in which he had shot dead a man and injurred several others. Walter came over and informed him that Riordan was causing trouble and that they expected a hit on some properties of Hurley's, he was to go over to some wharehouses in Dockgrav and keep an eye on them lest trouble break out. Over he went and bumped into his friend Viktor who was also emplyed there. They the nbegan to catch up on what had happened over the last few days, Sam also invited him back to the Bucket for a few drinks, which Viktor readily accepted.

Aoima the Elf to was looking for employment, searchin about she soon found an establishmen in the Emerald Distric of the city. A certain establishment belonging to a Madame Lafette, a club for gentlemen to unwind and relax. It was called The Lamp House. Being an elf Lafette was sure that Aoima could make a fair amount of money for a certain market. Thus she was provided with a room and baord at the hpuse. It was a nice if simple room, a large bed and dressing table, chairs and wardrobes. The hosue itself was large, pwerhaops with 20 or so other women and a few heavies and barstaff. Though of all her neighbours it was the tall darkhaired woman that caught Aoima eyes, she intimidated and frightened many of the others, even the heavies out front didn't like her too mcuh. She was tall, dark haired with aquiline features and often dressed in black and red silk dresses wwhic hwere often figure hugging and lowcut. A beauty if a frightening one. Asking others about her she discovered that she was called Melise and had come from Cygnar some months ago and catred to gentlemen and some women with a more special and exotic taste.
Exploring the Emerald dsitric Aoima soon bumpedinto an Elf in the street who had just caught a pickpocket attempting to relive him of his brudensome gold. He introduced him self as Nestor Vyleth and he was delighted to make her aquaintance. He informed her that he was the propietor of The Half Moon Club, a bar designed for the small elven communtiy in the city and he hoped that she would visit sometime. She promised she would.

Tok, industrious as ever, decided to put his skills to use, he gathered large quantities of water in barrels and had them transported over to Bellow Island. Here he would help to quench the thirst of the labourers in the steel mills and foundries. The air was thick with acrid smoke and the smell of sulphur. This bothered him not one jot. Hours passed and despite hi very cheap rates for a mug of the clear pure liquid he did not receive many customers. Eventually a site foreman came over and spoke to the gobber. “Tell me have you been in Five Finger long?” he said. “No” replied Tok, “Ah I thought so,” said the foreman. He then proceed e to explain that though water was indeed in short supply in the city and something of a delicacy designed only for the wealthier of society, that there was vast quantities of cheap and readily available beer. Thus he would not get far with his current plan. The foreman purchased a mug from the gobber and went about his business. Tok decided to and his current venture and went to see Aoima.

Tok found Aoima talking to Sam Vimes, who being a member of a Hurley gang was perusing the Emerald district in safety. They decided to had off to the Half Moon Club. The club itself was located in a small back street just off the edge of the Emerald district. Abovw the reinforced steel door hung a moon with, Laris to be precise. Aoima knocked on the door and it opened slightly, a doorman, an Iosian elf , looked the figures up and down, only Aoima was allowed to enter, this club was only for the elves of the city. Vimes was fine with this but not Tok. Whilst the doorman w busy talking to Aoima, Tok moved through the gap and entered the club. Quickly followed by Aoima. The club was a modest affair several tables and upholstered booths set out around a room with a large bar at one end, behind which Nestor stood. Sitting about the room were a dozen or so elves, two Nyss were talking in hushed whispers in the corner and shot venomous glances to Aoima. Tok marched on and up to the bar in the hopes of ordering some sort of beverage. Shocked by this he was grabbed and dragged out of the establishment and threatened with death is she return uninvited. This left Aoima to talk with Nestor. She quickly learnt the lay of the city and who was who after a few drinks. Thanking him she left and returned to her companions. Having concluded business with the club they went upon their way. Aoima back to her new home at the Lamp House. Vimes returned to his gang and Tok to his friends at their shared apartment.

Gaunt, Thalan, Tok, Thrawcheld, the Kossite, the Druid, the Fellcaller and Ogrim sat about in the apartment discussing their plans for the retrieval work Kaydor has set them. They decided it was bets to go scope the place out first. This they did. Heading out across the city they soon arrived at the warehouse. It was a simple affair, one large warehouse with a 10ft stone wall around with a gate, guarded by hirelings. Tok and Thrawcheld were up and over the walsl while the others circled the perimeter. Quickly and stealthily the two cased the joint. It had various windows all high up on the walls and only one large door at the front. Guards patrolled regularly and there were various other inside the building itself. The two had managed to gain access to the site office and thumbed through the records to locate the particular merchandise. They also managed to ‘lose’ said invoices for the items the needed. The problem was how to get it out and away, for there was only one exit to the warehouse and its compound. Returning to the others the party headed off to the nearest tavern to discuss what to do next. It was decided a distraction was needed, this would be provided by the Druid. Tok informed them that there were several piled of old crates nand tarpaulins located on the far side of the compound if these could be set afire then it could buy them sometime Also he could create some fog and hide their activities. Thalan also was thinking he could use some of his sorcerers abilities top create some distracting noises out font to deal with the guards. The druid could then create a hole in the stone wall with his abilities over nature, through which they could move the goods. All they needed was a place to hide the items for a few days until things cooled down. Tok and Thalan thus went out and began to look for such a place. After several hours of searching they discovered an entrance near an old sewer culvert which they could store the Jack parts in. It was dark and went down for some way. Though there was evidence it was infested with rats (this was not a problem for Tok it was much like a buffet) nothing else appeared to live there, though they dare not venture too far down having hear the tales of monsters and fiends that inhabited such places in the city. The plan decided they waited for the cover of the following evening.

Vimes and Viktor were informed by their respective employers to turn up at the said warehouse, the target no less of their comrades. They were informed that a hit was imminent and that they were to stop all thieves, killing them id necessary. Thus they arrived early at the warehouse and began to guard it.

The rest of the party arrived later that evening and put their plan into action. The Druid caused the stone of the wall to part to form a doorway big enough for the others to get through. Ogrim was left on one side to help carry the items away quickly to the culvert which was only a few hundred years north. Some planks of wood which had been left nearby were leant against the wall so as to cover the doorway from the inside. The Druid then proceeded to the front of the compound. Thalan had used his powers to create ghostly noised a little way down the road and some of the guards had gone to investigate. The Druid approached and surreptitiously began to create some fog in the compound. Soon the compound and street were full of thick fog. Needless to say the guards were some what suspicious. Vimes and Viktor especially so. Patrols were increased. The Druid then moved on to the far side of the compound, and the door he had created there, He passed through and summoned fire with in the piles of crates. He then summoned fire again this time on the roof of the warehouse itself, only at the back as far away from the desire goods as possible. Panic erupted as guards ran about in attempts to extinguish the blazes. This was exacerbated by the Druid who simply created more. Within the confusion and the fog the party set out into the warehouse to retrieve the items. Through some good luck and excellent bluffing the party managed to repeatedly sneak by the guard unawares. Viktor once spied them but couldn’t quite make them out. Vimes too was oblivious to their presence. Feeling rather light fingered they helped themselves to a few more crates before leaving. All the items were stored in their hiding place and the party left to return a few days hence. The hole in the wall was resealed.

Though warehouse was set aflame not much was lost and thing quietened down again. Nothing was noted missing and the matter was left to accident. Vimes and Viktor went on their way having done a nights work. The others returned to their loot a few days later. The parts were all there and these they delivered to Mr Kaydor as promised who was most delighted. He provided them with a small shop on Chasers Isle as well as the 500gp owed. Having been impressed with their work he assured them that he would have other jobs for them in the future. The other items they stole turned out to be a dozen bottles of fine Caspian Wine. These they largely sold but a few were kept for their own enjoyment in a small celebration in their new shop.

Welcome to Five Fingers.......

3rd Donard, Cinten, 605 AR.

It took another two weeks to travel the remainder of the Dragons Tongue and reach Five Fingers. The party came on two seperate boats. Along the way they had made friends with some new people, adventurers like themselves. There was a strongheahded Paladin of Menoth, who argued repeatedly with the Cleric of Morrow. Also accompanying them was a female Elf, Aoima. A rare breed indeed in these parts, though it was said several hundred called Five Fingers home. The Elf, with her piercing stare, certainly made an impression upon Thalan, who from his first meeting could never look her in the eye again. The profits of their last little escapade were certainly going to pay here, the Orgoth armour and items that they had managed to recover from the ruins had been sold ot various collectors, this resulted in the party beinga fre thousand crowns up. Thalan however had decided to keep his rather nice sword in exchange for his share of the loot. The party landed in Dockgrav.

Upon arriving in the city the party soon split up and started haeding off in their various groups. Sam Vimes went and found a nearby bar and started gathering information on the new city. Of the others, indeed almost immediately, the Cleric of Morrow and Thrawcheld were relieved of their heavy wallets by some friendlt local thieves. This too was tried upon Gaunt, but the didnt really take to it, and quickly sent the ragamuffins on their way. One of the new companions that had joined the assorted mob of adventurers was a paladin of Mentoh, going by the name of Victor Darkmantle. Five fingers however was not really to his liking, their was eveil everywhere, so he decided that something should be done about it. He set straight out for the City Watch Barraks and applied for the post of watchan. Thalan, Gaunt and Tok however went to find some sort of accomodation, dreams of setting up a small shop in their minds. Prices here were expensive though. Eventually they managed to find a couple of rooms, located on the fourth floor of a building on Doleth Island. Sam in the mean time had leartn much about the city. He was determined to get in on some of the action that the crimnal wrold offered. He soon found a section of the city that was run by a gang, working for Captain Hurley. Entering their bar, The Leakey Bucket, he bought a few drinks for the patrons, whose gang colours were a light green. Here he met their leader, an affable gentleman with an eyepatch by the name of Walter Schenk. The beer was cheap and the company was good, Sam had found his niche. The peace was not to last. Gunshots were heard outside. Dashing from the the pub the gang, with Sam in tow immediately began to do battle with men, who appeared to be wearing a lot of red. Sam fired of a few shots, injuring one and most certainyl killing another, however a blow to the back of his head soon threw everything into darkenss. He awoke some hours later in a room with a couple of other men, bandaged like himself. Walther entered and thanked him for his work, he too and a few bruises and cuts. Walter asked Sam to join his gang, The Shankers, Sam agreed.

Victors attempts to join the watch were not going well, he filled out their forms and waited for several days, but evberytime he came back to enquire he was fobbed off. Finally after a week he recieved a flat refusal to allow him into the watch, Disheartened he left. To pay his way he had taken up emplyment as a labourer in a factory. It was certainyl good exercise even if the pay was bad. If the watch wouldnt have him then perhaps somebody else would. Asking about town he soon found that various companies were intrested hiring extra security for theri buildings and operations. Soon enough Victor was being paid to act as a nightwatchman. It was while enjoying some ale after work that he bumped into Sam in a pub. Reaquainting himself with his od travelling partner they began to talk. Soon Victor was helping some of Sma new found friends protect a small Wharehouse in the Rivergrav area.

The Cleric of Morrow had gone to find the Cathedral. What he saw was indeed shocking and disheatening. Morrow was albut ignored and the Cathedral was in a very bad state. Certainyl he would have his work cut out for him doing Morrows work in this hive of scum and villainy. Meeting with the Prelate he soon discovered the situation of the Church of Morrow in the city. Rooms were offered for his use while he was resident in the city. He immedieately got to work on helping to clear up some of the grafitti and danage caused by gangs and Thamarites to the once beautiful building of worship. He also set up a small stall out front of the cathedral selling potions, curatives and other items to the people of the city, offereing to cure the sick and destitue for free. What profit he made he handed over to the Prelate to help the cause of Morrow in Five Fingers. Ogrim when he arrive in the city eventually found him there. The Clerics teachings had so inspired him that he wanted to hear more and help do Morrows work in the city. As there were no rooms suitable in the Cathedral a tent was assemebled within its grounds. So long as he assited in the repar and mainatnce of the Cathedral he was permitted to live there free.

Gaunt, Thalan, Tok, Thrawcheld the Druid and a Kossite Scout that they had met on their trip down the Dragons Tongue, were seeking employemnt of their own. Tok from information he had leartn from the neighbours, decided that he was going to try and help supply the worker of Bellicose Island with water, at a price of course, for water was in short supply in the city. With the aid of the Druids magic a large supply of water was created inside a barrel and standing on the corner of a street nearby to several foundries Tok attempted to sell his wares. Things did not go well, depsite his cheap price of 1 silver for a large glass of water, nobody wished to buy. He dropped the price to 5 copper but stil there were very frew takers. After several hours a well dressed badling man in a suit came out. He asked him if he was new in Five Fingers, Tok said that he was. Ah said the man, thats what he thought. He then proceeed to inform the gobber that though water was lacking in the city, that readily available, tastier and cheaper beer was not. He then boguh a mug of Toks water and bid him a good day. Tok stumped for the moment returned to his shared apartments.

The Druid in this period quickly found the few public gardens and parks in the city. Realising that the topography and geology of the city was not ideal for the growing of plants, he set out ot improve what he could. He began to sculpt and landscape and do all he possibly could to help the garden grow. His efforts would take time but it would be worth it. He began to give a series of lectures and infrom the passing nobility and rich patrons of the area of the different types of plants and what could be donw with them. He soon gathered a small follwoing of scholars and intested persons who would come to listen to him.

Gaunt spent many days designing and improving hios idea for the Zappo lighter. Finally he came up with a wrking prototype. It would be this item he hoped that would mark him on the map. He began to put some feelers out, trying to spread the word of his new invention and trying to gather some intrest from patrons who might wish to invest. He was soon attracted to the fighting pits of Chasers Island, there he found mechanikal aswell as the regular types of blood sport. In one arena he offered his services to a team who wrere trying to repair their small labourjack for the next fight. Offering his advice to the new and inexperianced team he whipped out his handy tool kit and made a few adjustemtns and changes. It payed off and in the next fight the jack won, winning him and Thalan a few hundered gold pieces. The owber of the team was impressed and direcetd him to a gentleman, a Mr. Sebastain Kaydor, a businessman and socialite in the city. Approaching him Guant introduced himself and informed Mr Kaydor of his services. An appointment was made with Mr Kaydor for the follwing day at 2.00 pm.

Stay away from that trapdoor......

2nd Vendarl, Cinten, 605 AR.

The party had managed to travel some way down the Dragons Tongue river without being interrupted. The boats would pull in to towns and villages along the way every few days to give the crews and any passengers a rest or a chance to leave. A week passed in this easy and leasurely manner. It was upon arrival at Pout Bourne with its mighty locks that controlled the flow of traffic upon the Dragons Tongue that the party found their next opportunity to make a profit. Passage through all the locks would take sometime. Port Bourne being a rather large and important place the party decided to take some leave here for a while and see what sort of employment was available here.

A local news sheet was purchased and scanned by the members of the party. Apart from the fascinating and occassionaly troubling news of the Khardic attrocities being committed in occupied Llael, the local obituaries and items for sale section, there was a plastered across one of the pages a report of an Orgoth ruin, that had recently been discovered by accident. A young boy from a village some 20 miles to the North West had fallen down a hole while playing in some woods with his friends. Upon further investigation this hole lead to various chambers and tunnels which produced variious Orgoth relics. The family had taken these and were selling them. This piqued the intrest of the party. An Orgoth ruin might have substantial treasure to be had. Setting off the following morning the party headed out for the village.

The weather was somewhat abismall, it rained steadily for most of the day. As evening came on the adventurers arrived at the village and proceeded directly to the warmth and dry of the local inn. The Inn was a modest affair but was surprisingly full considering the size of the community it sereved. The common room was full of people, all dressed in the garb of adventurers mercenaries and other hunters of fortune. Clearly others had had a simialr ideas as the the party. Finding s space for themselves food and alcohol was ordered and consumed most merrily. The networking then began. Going about the inn and the village itself the party soon discovered the various groups had come in over the last few days, all having heard of the discovery of the Orgoth ruins, all keen to get hold of the treasures it may hold. The ruin itself was located in a small wood, a few miles to the west, beyond the next ridge. The party managed to aquire what few remaining rooms there were in the inn, the landlord was having to tripple and quadruple up. The evening passed and the rain continued.

The next moring was grey, but the rain had finally stopped. Enjoying an early breakfast the party had decided to set out fresh and early. It was then that they had met Radik. Introducing himself he gave the party a brisk warning, not to get in his way, not to go out to the ruins, because he and his men (who were palced about the common room eating and drinking the hearty fare) were gonna claim all that was in that ruin. They had already had to have words with a few opther groups who decided not to head the warning, they were currently nurisng broken bones. The party did not take to kindly to this, but let it slide. Unanimously deciding that they were going to get there before Radik they left the Inn.

It didnt take too long to arrive at the ruins, going over the ridge, before them they saw a series of hills that formed a bowl. In the middle of this bowl was a small hill covered in trees. The road went past but turned a few hundred yards before the hill. Heading down the party jumped over the drystone wall and headed into the woods. Making their way up the slope they spied a cmp fire. Dropping to the ground and and ducking behind trees they approached cautiously, surrounding the camp site from three sides, Tok making best use of his chameleon like skin. Thalan, taking the lead stepped out into the campsite. There sitting about the fire, cooking a couple of rabbits, was an elderly man. Long grey hair and a beard with travel stained clothing. With him was a young boy, perhaps 14 or 15. Despite their harmelss appearnace, the party was cautious, the man was armed with a crossbow which he had pointed at Thalen. Introducing himself Thalan beckoned forwards some of the other members. Gaunt, Thrawcheld came forwards, flanking the two. Tok remained concealed and circled around them, edging towards the fire. The old man called Tok forwards, despite never glancing in his direction. Coming into the camp the adventurers introduced themsleves, and told the two that they were here for the ruins. The old man introduced himself, Gramps, and lowered his crossbow, the boy was Eric, he remained rather quiet throughout all of the exchange. Gramps had come yesterday evening with a party of adventuruers. They had gone down the hole, he pointed over to a outcrop of rocks nearby. They had yet to return.

Gramps continued to roast the few rabbits that he had caught over the samll campfire. The tantalsing smells of the cooking meat had Tok hooked, though he personally would have prefereed them a lot rarer. Gathering around the fire the two groups began to talk amiably, though Eric remained quiet as always. From their questioning of the kindly old man they party soon learnt that Gramps was hired as a guide by the absent adventurers. He had promised to stay here for atleast a day but if they did nto return he was free to leave. They also asked him about Radik. Laughing Gramps said that he had been approached by Radik but that he cared naught for that pile of dung.

It began to rain lightly. Tok gave word that he had spotted men coming down the ridge behind them, about five by the looks of it. The men enterend the woods, it was Radik and his goons. Throwing some insults at the adventurers and Gramps, Eric look abashed and kept himself hidden, Radik and his men made their way to the entrance of the tunnels. Gloating that he and his associates would retun laden with trasure, all the treasure that there was they entered in turn. Tok and taken the opportunity, while they were baiting Gramps, to cover the rope the previous party had used to enter the tunnels and the tunnel floor with some oil. As he expected there were some slapstick moments.

Another couple of hours passed and sicne the original band had yet to reappear Gramps decided to leave. He and Eric began to pack up his camp. The party took this as sign, they decided to enter the tunnels and catch up to Radik. Bidding fairwell to Gramps and Eric they stooped (except for Tok) through the hole in the rocks and with the aid of the now dry rope, climbed down the increasingly steep slope of the tunnel floor. With the assiatnce of torches and lanterns the party could see quite well.

The party dropped down into a large square stone room. There was one door, it was solid and made of rusted iron. The tunnel back to the surface was placed halfway up along the far wall, it had obviouly formed from some subsidence and cave inns over the centuries. The door ofcourse was open, the room itself was empty apart from some detritus. Readying themselves the party pressed forwards out into the darkness. Thrawcheld and Tok in the lead. The door led onto a long corridor. On either side there were a couple of closed doors, big heavy wooden and iron ones. All closed. The corrifdor continued into the darkness but as the progressed down it they could see another open doorway at its end. The paty decided to examine the first door they had passed. Thrawcheld opened it with his lock picking abilities. The peered inside. Bones strewed the floor. Among them creatures scuttled, Spiders the size of dogs. They scuttled and hid in the corners. The party cautiously entered the room. There were holes in the walls and evidnce of cave ins. There were also some iron chests. The spiders did not appreciate their visiotrs and defended their territory, spraying some sort of acid out. They were quickly dealth with. The chest however prooved to be empty, nothing of value lay within. The same was true of the boxes and barrels in the next room. Clearly the other had bypassed these rooms.

The party advanced down the hallway to the door at the end. The corridor then split off to the left and right. One way was as good as another and the party had no way of knowing which way the other had gone. They decided to take the left fork. The followed it, advancing cautiously. Not cautiously enough though. One of the floor stones sunk under their weight and darts began to shoot out from the wall. They caused no serious injury other than a few scratched, but they did highlight that greater caution was needed. This they did. A few more traps threw themselves in their way, but with Thrawchelds guidance and knowledge of such matters, injuries were kept to a minimum and many of the traps were defused or avoided. Clearly the other had not come this way.

Once again there was a door along one of the walls. The lock was picked and the party entered. Again the room was infested with spiders, though the acid damaged their weapons Tok provided them with some oil cloth to wipe them down and so preserve them, though they would no doubt need some repair later. Ogrin had not coe with them, but they could always use his smithing services later. The beasts were slain. Tok got out some flasks and glass capsules and began to collect some of the acid from the corpses of the aracnids. However in this room there were some itesm to be found. Among the bones of animals that were scattered across the floor several things gleamed in the torchlight. These appared to be various small Orgoth bowls and cups and other such smaller domestic items. Valuable they were but not vast treasure. Nevertheless they were gathered up, a profit could be made.

The party contiuned down the corridor. They came to a locked door. Tog examined it. At this point ancient Orgoth magic struk. The dor was wereated in fire. Burnt Tok jumped back. Clearly there was more to this place than they had imagines and they would have to be increasingly carefull if witchcraft was involved. The door was eventually opened. It lead to some stairs that descended a few feet then contiued in another corridor. There was also another branch off to the right. The party decided to stick to the left so as not to get lost and conduct a thorough search. Thalan was doing his best to create a map of the place to assist them. A few more traps took their toll on the health of the party. No seriosu injuires were incurred and the Druid compensated and provided the adventurers with the healing arts. This was Orgoth and there must be something in these ruins to neccessitate such defences. Blades, darts, witchcraft. What were they hiding?

They found a hole in the floor, several feet across. There was a floor belot them, the drop to the next level was just over nine feet. They decided to head down. Attaching some rope to a iron bracket in the wall, the party lowered itself down one by one. Contiuing on they found yet another corrior. It too forked to the left and to the right. Going left they discovered a set of spiralling stairs. This must clearly lead back up to the previous level. Turning about they advanced down the right hand passage. The party picked their way through another door. Now fate would paly its part. A thick stone door began to lower itself from the ceiling. Inexorably getting closer to the door. Yet none had triggered a trap. Ahead wa th unknown. Thrawcheld the himslf back under before it was to late. The others stayed. The party was now seperated. Thrarcheld made his way back though the tunnels, heading up the spiral stairs to the floor above. The others continued on, their path now chosen for them. The corridor went on. Then it suddenyl stopped. A chasm had opened up across the corridor. A chasm 3oft across. A stone was dropped. The sound disappeared into the depths. The bottom was avery long way away. There was o way of climoing across using the stones in the wall, it too had largely fallen away. A rope with a hook was fastened securely round Tok. Thalan spinning then hurled the gobber across the chasm towards some roof beams on the other side. Tok disappeared into the darkness. Landing sucesfully Tok secured the hook in the roof beam. He was however not alone. This particular nook was the home of one of the many spiders. It was to say the least. surprised to see Tok. Tok was surpriesed to see it. They boath screamed, as far as either species could. Tok hit the spider, the spider hit Tok. This was repeated several times. The spider desciding that discretion was indeed the better part of valour sprayed its acid and fled. Tok had won. Calling from the other side the adventurers asked if he was ok? He replied he was fine.

The rope was secured and the party climbed across the chasm. Once all on the other side the party continued donw the corridor. There they found the foirst party, all of them nailed and stapled to the walls, some in bits, having been dismembered. The party looked on agahast. Leaving the grizzly sight behind them, they continued. Again they came to another heavy Iron door. However screaming could be heard. They opened the door.

The room was large and well lit. Sconces and chandliers illuminated it with thousands of candles. Chests, barrels and boxes were stacked in every corners. The walls however were hung with Radik and his men, skinned and mutilated, some still alive despite their grievous injuries. Radik himself was suspended via a chain from a chandelier. The perpetraitor of this villainy, stood before them. He was a tall, muscled naked man, devoid of all hair, and instead of a left arm he had a large rusty blade from the elbow, his left was a fork. Turning his scarred face he smiled sadistically. By the looks of him it seemed someone had bolted bits together and attacjed them to form this creature. Despite his size he move fast, wading in amongst the adventurers. The screams of the victims filled the air. Slashing and punching he ripped through armour and deflect blows. Despite cutting him with their weapons he didnt slow or tire. Little blood flowed from him, but the party was begining to tire and secumb from injuries. Tok with the acid he had collected smashed vial after vial into the beast, magaing to destroy one of his arms. He could no longer stab with the fork, but he could bash their much brittler bodies with the metal stump. Gaunt managed to trip the beast, taking advantage of its vulnerability the party struck again and again plunging their weapons into the thing. Everytime it tried to rise the Cruids wolf would bite and claw at it pulling it back down to the ground. Blow after blow rained down. Finally it stopped, a bloody wreck.

Radik and his men were now dead, only the party remained. They sat down and began to tend to their injuries. Thrwcheld meanwhile had gone back they way they had come. Looking in one of the rooms they had avoided. Entering he found the usual den of spiders which he put to flight. Here too he found a few Orgoth nick nacks. Gathering them up he awaited the return of his associates.

The party searched the room. Mnay of the boxes and chests were empty or contained items of no great value, decaying cloth and pots, dust. However some were full. One of the chests, booby trapped with several baldes and spells, whcih caused some distress, was full of armour, Orgoth plate, a fine prize indeed. Thalan, found at the bottom of another, a sword. An Orgoth sword, one with a mgical air about it. This was his. The were a series of levers in the room. Pulling these the party discovered they controlled the stone door that had trapped them. Gathering up the loot the party returned the way they had come. Meeting up with Thrawcheld the party left the Orgoth ruins. Emerging into th woods, it was now nightfall. The rain continued. Heading back out onto the road they returned to the village. Infroming the villagers and Gramps of the fate of the the other parties that had gone in before them, they told the tale of their fight with the beast. The next day the left, bidding fairwell to the villagers and other adventurers who had listened to their tale. The trekked back to Port Bourne, buying passage on the next ship heading down the Dragons Tongue, towards Five Fingers, the Port of Deceit.

If you go down to the woods today......

Donard 6th, Tempen, 605AR.

Resting for a few days the party gathered their equipment and decided on their next course of action. They went to se the commander of the Stonebridge garrison and asked his advice. He infromed them that he had little need of them at the moment so could not provide any work or assitance for them, however he was aware that his counterpart in Fisherbrook, just down the Dragons Tongue, may have some work going for mercenaries such as themselves. He informed them that a boat would be heading that way later that afternoon, he bid them good luck and farewell.

Arranging their passage the party assembled on the jetty below the castle and awaited their ride. The boat arried, it was a small affair carrying cloth and Ale down to Fisherbrook and Port Bourne from Corvis. The journey from Stonebridge to Fisherbrook was dull and uneventful, a bit like Fisherbrook itself. Arriving in the dull, grey and sedate town, the party headed of for the garrison commanders office. Fisherbrook was a deadend job for a commander, the town itself was run down and its society was stagnant. Nothing of note happened hear, and as a result morale of the meagre garrison was at rock bottom. Asking some rather bored guards where the commander, a man by the name of Lerrick could be found the parety explored this tepid little backwater.

Entering the military camp at the edge of the town, the lack of morale was apparent to all. The camp was delapidated, and in some dire need of anyform of military efficency. Walking amongst the dimly lit buildings the party soon found the decaying wooden hut that belonged to Captain Lerrick. Entering they introduced themselves and asked about any possible employment that there might be in the vicinity. Tegood captain. smelling particularly of gin, indeed there were several empty bottles being used as candelabras, like the kind you see in quaint little restraunts in Five Fingers, Caspia of Merwyn. The good captain, who seemed to have a habit of slurring the odd few words together told the party that he did indeed have work for them. He could accomodate them on the edge of his encampment but didnt have any real tents for them so they would have to make do with some motheaten and weatherworn ones instead. For 50 crowns the party would be hired for the week. With sometime untill the next boat taking them down river the party decided to take up the offer. After sorting out the sleeping arrangement, a lovely field on the edge of the Cygnaran encampment, they players prepared their evening meal and discussed the endless possibilities of the future.

The Following morning the Captain informed the party of their impending mission. Over the last few weeks he had been getting increasing reports of raiders attacking and destroying villages all along this stretch of the Dragons Tongue. Though there had been increasing numbers of Thrarn on the move in the area, and many had been seen in the vicinity of the attacked villages, despite the best investigative work of his men he could not prove that they were responsible for the heinous crimes. With a map of the area and the rest of the day ahead of them the party set off to investigate. They acquired, at a heft cost, one of the only four wheeled wagons in the area, loaded it up and heaeded off out into the country.

They traveled some miles and passed through many unharmed and untouched villages, there they heard tales from survivors and those who had given them shelter. Raiders who came in the night or the early morning, swift and siletn they crept upon the houses, killing and draggin away inhabitants and burning the homesteads. As they continued they often found tracks in the woods and in fields, tracks of creatures that werent all together human. Bigger and heavierset than the average man, the party belived these to be the footprints of the Thrarn. Indeed this was soon proved when they came face to face with Thrarn in the woods nearby, group of five were wallkig down a path. Unlike thier previous encounter with pasing Gatormen, Thalen managed to restrain himself and not attack them. They eyed the part wairily but continued on their way. The party continued on their way.

After some hours the party saw smoke rising in the distance, readying their weapons they set straight for it. Coming across the fields and along the road the party entered the burnt out shell of the village. Though the fiewre could be no more than a day old and that they were in no dount that the village was attacked they did not dsicover any bodies. Tracks there were however, tracks leading into the nearby forests of Thranwood. With the aid of the Kossite scout the party followed these tracks the coupleof miles to the imposing green mass, As they go closer they found that more and more tracks started to join in. The wagon however was being most un-cooperative. It being a big hulking thing decided that it was not well suited the the wooded areas of the world and so chose to remain on the flat. The players began to enter the forest and so abandoned their trusty wagon.

This was not before the killing began though. The Kossite Scout quickly got inot an argument with the Druid. The Kossite thought it to be an excellent idea to draw his gun on the druid. Ogrim the ogrun, not liking this much then hit the Kossite, knocking him off the wagon and uncocious. The rest of the party then drew all their weapons and poinjted them at Ogrim, infroming him not to kill the Kossite. A tumbleweed went by. Ogrim dispatched the helpless Kossite. The Druid was not best pleased at the murder, so he ordered Ogrim to do a penance. Burying the recently departed friend, the rites seen to by the Cleric, they party headed off into the woods.

The tracks that they wrre following soon petered out and filtered off in different directions. However after an hour or so in the woods they spotted in the distance a young girl walking though the trees rather slowly. Approaching her to discover who she was, she suddenly stopped. Turning about to face them the part could clearly see that she was dead, a large part of her abdomen was missing. They were dealing with the undead. Recovering from their initial revulsion the abomination was quickly destroyed and burnt. Pressing on, now intrigued as to what dark forces were at work within these woods, the party prepared themselves for the worst.

Hiking through the thick vegitation the party eventually came to a clearing. There was located an old settlemetn, long since over run with trees and vegitation. There they saw a group of Thran. Eyeing them wearily they stodd and watched. Weapons were readied on both sides. After a few tense moments, the Thrarn left the clearing and headed off into the woods. Searching the edges of the clearing the part soon picked up the tracks they were follwoing again. The tracks continued to wind through the trees, taking the ever deeper into the valleys that lay hidden beneath the leafy canopy. After some hours the party came across a small gully. The sides were steep but the tracks continued in the soft earth below and their was clear evdience of people climbing the sides. Securing some rope to a tree the party descended. Following th tracks the party soon encountered yet more undead monstrosities. Felling these creatures the party moved on dow nthe gully untill at last they came to a old wooden door, set into the rock faced end of the depression. Seeing no guards about the party moved up to the door. At this point from above them a abnd of the living dead appeared, defending themselves the party waded into the creatures surrounfing them, destroying them all. Recovering themselves the party opened the door and entered.

A tunnel lead down intothe darkness. Lighting up various torches and lanyterns the party proceeded. Descending they entered into a large circular cavern. The corridor sopend out and at the foot of somr steps were two score of undead monsters. From the simple stumbling corpses to fulyl armoured warriors. At their head, sitting upon a large rock was a strangely androgenous man. His skin was pale as abalbaster and his hair black as night. However his eyes were a strange violet colour. Smiling he stood, and silently pointed at them. The creatured before him turned and advanced upon the party. Ogrim took up the lead, blocking the stairs with his vast bulk attacking all that came with in reach of his spear. The others lined up behind him. Holding their position the party repulsed the waves of undead clambering up the steps. The Cleric banished as many of the creatures as he could, sending them fleeing or collapsing into heaps before him.

The pale man had dissappared though. Finishing off the remainder of the undead the party began to investigate the room. It was rhe that it reappeared. As if from out of no where it struck, short sword flashing and stabbing at the party. As quickly as it came he was gone again, only to reappear and strike another blow. After some severe injuries to themselves the sword that the fiend was using broke. Stopping the fiend bowed and disappeared once more. This time it did not return.

Patching themselves up the party continued to investigate the caves. Scattered about the room was various boxes and crates. Though these contained food, supplies and other such useful itesm that one could need in surviving in the woods, there was nothing of great value. There was however a door loctaed at the back of the cavern. It was open. Entering they discovered three bodies. Their blood was still wet. They had all had their throats cut. Searching the room the party discovered various items, letters, tatoos on the bodies that lead them to the conclusion that they had been dealing with Cryxian necromancers. Yet they could not discover the reason for the pale firnds presence. Gathering up the important itesm and any valubales they could find, they headed out.

Returning to their wagon, which had been enjoying peace and quiet of the field alongside the road, they mounted up. Ogrim pulling they turned about and headed back to camp in Fisherbrook. As the bumped and trundeled along the road they noticed in the woods, moving alongside them, large numners of Tharn, perhaps 200 or more. These shadowed them for a while before turning off and disappearing. Reporting their discoveries to Captain Lerrik they returned to their tents. Recouping from theoir wounds and collecting their pay the party bought passage on the next boat going down the river.

The Transporters

5th Malleus, Tempen 605 AR.

Several days after finishing their contract for the city watch the party were interested in moving on, having heard of the money and fame that could be gained in the city of Five Fingers. Set with a destination the party made their preparations to set off down the Dragons Tongue River. Before they could leave however a member of the city watch arrived at their lodgings bearing a letter. The letter requested their presence at the city watch barracks later that evening. Intrigued the party decide that they would delay their departure and attend the meeting.

Arriving at the barracks that evening and handing over their invitation the party were escorted to an office. Julian Helstrom then entered. Greeting the party he offered them refreshments and seats. Ogrim of course was quick to oblige when there was food on offer. Helstrom then informed them of the reasons for this meeting. He had heard from his various sources that the party were intending to head down the Dragons Tongue to go to Five Fingers. Since they were going that way he wondered if they could perform a small service for him. He needed them to transport a prisoner from the watch barracks to the fortress of Stonebridge. The pay for this little job would be 500 Crowns now and another 500 when the prisoner arrived. Alive. The party then asked who this prisoner was and why it was important to transport him. Most of all they wanted to know why them? Helstrom explained. The prisoner went by the name of Johan Denyson and was a local crime boss of sorts. Having finally been caught by the watch he was willing to cut a deal, offering them information on much of the city’s underworld. Too good an offer to refuse Helstrom had decided he had to be taken away for safe keeping. The party was required to do this as they had impressed Helstrom with their breaking of the Thamarite smuggling ring. Also he didn’t know who in the watch was actually working for or reporting to Denyson’s enemies in the underworld, who would now most certainly want him dead. Thus he needed some out of towners. The party accepted the job. Pleased Helstrom informed them that the prisoner would be ready for transport the following morning. In the meantime the party was to plan exactly what to do with him and how to get him to his destination.

The party debated the options for quite sometime, should they go by river and then across land? Land all the way along? After much debate it was decided to go by land in an armoured and secured wagon. Several other identical wagons would be sent out in different direction to fool any would be assassins. Only the party, Helstrom and a few others would be privy to the identity real one. Gaunt, Ogrim and Tok began work on their wagon preparing it for the trip to come whilst the other went out and bought up all the supplies that they would need for the trip, expected to take the better part of two weeks. The wagon was armour plated with slots and visors for the guards to look out of and some protection for the driver and shotgun. A bar was rigged up inside to hold……… Gaunt managed to get hold of some toxins from a local species of fish, they were not fatal but given in enough quantity they would certainly make someone pretty ill.

Time marched on, too quickly for some. Other wagons were dispatched before the real one and others would be sent out after them, all on different routes. Denyson was brought out under guard and escorted to the wagon where he was secured. Gaunt and Thrawcheld would remain in the wagon keeping an eye on him. Ogrim and the Fruid would head off to the city gate to ensure their security there. Thalan, Tok and the Kossite would ride up front and on top. The scout being the driver of the wagon. Sam Vimes would follow some hours behind them, making sure that they were not being followed. Helstrom handed over the first half of the pay and the papers for the transfer. With these the party set out.

The first half hour of the journey or so was quite successful. The streets weren’t to busy and they travelled with quite a speed. Or at least as fast as a horse drawn armoured prison wagon can go through a major city first thing in the morning. However, this was not to last. Across the street in front of them another wagon appeared and stopped. Tok and Thalan then noticed that there were several men running along the rooftops above them. Behind them too was a wagon, blocking them in the street. Out of the shops on either side cam armed men. Somebody had ratted them out it seemed. Not losing anytime the party flew into action, Talan unloading his crossbow into the nearest criminal type before drawing his sword. Tok and the Kossite did the same. Being surrounded and fighting desperately the three managed to hold some of their attackers at bay. Unfortunately they were being fired upon from the front, rear and above. Diving for cover Tok hid under the wagon. Despite losing his hat from his head, he made a daring grab for it, returnign it safe and sound. In the rear Gaunt and Thrawcheld peered out. Seeing the action unfolding they decide they wished to be a part of it. They weren’t going to lose 500 crowns that easily. Opening the door they took it in turns to fire their crossbows out at the attackers coming from the end of the street. Gaunt used colour spray on several of them. One of the attackers had managed to use a sewer entrance and hook a chain onto the axle of the wagon, ensuring it could not go forwards. Stray shots however had struck the horses, killing them. Thalan and the Kossite were fighting desperately and were taking some damage. Succumbing to his wounds the Kossite fell from the wagon dieing on the cobbled street. Tok noticing this leapt over to his fiend, when not engaged in stabbing attacker’s feet from under the wagon. With his healing abilities he managed to stabilise the Kossite for the moment. From up above they heard the sounds of fiery explosions on metal. The attackers on the rooftops were hurling a few Molotovs down, some of which were smashing all over the street while others made contact with the wagon, slowly burning it. This worried Gaunt and Thrawcheld greatly. Tok managed to unhook the wagon. And negate some of the fire damage by using his magic to create water. Some minutes later the attackers were defeated on the street and those on the roves had disappeared. Abandoning the now burnt out wreck of the wagon the party commandeered one of the ones their attackers had left behind. Ogrim having seen smoke rising from the city had sped from the gate and arrived at the scene, too late to be of any particular help, but it is the thought that counts.

Heading out of the city the party hooked up with the druid and went on their way, heading out across the levee’s and marshes to the west of Corvis. Denyson was securely tied and bound in the back, being guarded by Gaunt, Ogrim and Thrawcheld. Thalan and the recovering Kossite had control of the horses. Tok as usual was everywhere at once. After several days of now uneventful travel through the region the party began to relax slightly. Oh what fools they were. Coming down the road, minding their own business and quite pleased with themselves after a successful day hunting came several gatormen. Worried the party readied their weapons. The gatormen looked the wagon and its passengers up and down , bemused at the antics of some they went on their way. Thalan, not knowing too much about their kind decided that they were clearly a threat and shot one of them. The gatormen were not best pleased. Turning they engaged their vile attackers. Ogrim being a fairly good warrior, and owning a spear dispatched the three reptilian passers by quickly, the fourth fled to inform his chums of this heinous incident. They too were not best pleased at the events. The party then sped up their progress fearing reprisals of the gatormen and their no doubt very annoyed wives.

The track way that they were on however was not so well designed for the speed at which they wished to go. The rise was bumpy. Having had several days to work at his bonds Denyson had managed to work himself free. One doesn’t get to the top of the criminal society in Corvis without learning how to get oneself free from various forms of binding. Sitting there, looking all innocent, and unnoticed by his guards, he used the excuse of a bump to launch himself out of the wagon, over it very low side, down the long slope of the levee and into the swamp. The party were mightily annoyed. Their 500 Crowns was slowly swimming away.

Losing no time the party sprung into action, Gaunt, Ogrim, Thalan, Thrawcheld and the Kossite jumped down the levee, not too well it might be added as they failed to remain on their feet. Landing in a heap at the bottom. Denyson meanwhile continued his steady escape, using the darkness and water to hide. Gaunt cast a light spell and the party began to search, locating Denyson further out in the swamp the players sped after him. Ogrim picked Thalan up and launched him out into the swamp. The water got deeper and so it was now necessary to swim. Various spells were cast at Denyson, attempts to freeze him failed and he continued to get away. Finally the Kossite, Thalan and Thrawcheld caught up with him and wrestled him back to the levee. There he was bound again and secured more firmly than before. Gaunt, annoyed that he had been upstaged and outwitted forced some of the fish toxins down Denysons throat, knocking him unconscious after some violent vomiting. Resting up the party continued on their way.

Several more days passed and they met little resistance or trouble. Denysons was kept in a near constant state of sedation. The swamps and marshes soon gave way to fields and forest. The party turned away from the river area and began to cut across country along old track ways and paths. Little did they know that they were being stalked. Later that night the horses pulling the cart were slain, struck by arrows from hidden assailants. The party dove for cover. However they were being fired upon from all sides. It being night time and their attackers possessing some skill at basic field craft managed to elude being spotted. Taking damage and with a now useless wagon the players decided to flee on foot. Ogrim picking up Tok and Denyson. Across fields, ditches and woods they fled, consistently being hounded by their attackers who managed to keep pace. Despite attempts to cover their tracks with magic fog they were pursued towards the river for several miles. Sam Vimes who had by now caught up with his comrades offered a few shots out of his pistol. Despite their magical effects the enemy kept coming forwards, finding himself alone, he headed off in a different direction intending to link up with the other later.

Dogged for several miles the part finally holed up in a rocky outcrop. Tok using his chameleon like ability to hide. Out of the darkness came their pursuers. Out flanking them and managing to attack the party in the rear a panicked and desperate combat erupted. Despite some injuries the party managed to survive. On closer investigation of the bodies the players noticed that they bore tattoos and markings of the Daggermoor Rovers. Clearly Denyson was worth dead at any price if mercenaries of this quality were being hired. Healing their wounds and resting the party hunkered down for the night. The next day the set out for the river in hope of being picked up by a passing ship. Their luck did not hold and they were forced to continue the remainder of their journey on foot along the river bank.

Finally they arrived at Stonebridge, looming out of the trees was their destination, standing like a large grey monolith against the blue sky. They made straight for it. Coming to the barbican they offered the guards their papers and informed them of who they were. The guards told them to wait while their story was confirmed by the commander. It was and they were allowed to enter. A shot rang out and Denyson was struck. Falling down blood poured from a hole in his back. Dragging him into cover the party rushed inside the safety of the castle. Denyson was given immediate treatment and though seriously wounded was saved from death. The guards too ka particular intrest in the Kossite, his accent aroused their suspicions and after a good hour of questioning they decided he was no threat and sent him on his way.

The party stayed in Stonebridge for a few days resting and received their pay of 500 Crowns.

Corvis

Gorim 3rd, Trineus, 606 AR.

After a couple of week’s journey, taking them out of the Bloodstone Marches and back into Cygnar, the players found themselves in the city of Corvis. Recently arrived and with some coin in their pocket they soon found a pleasant establishment and began to enjoy themselves a little. Tok, as ever tried to find a brothel that would serve his special tastes, that is for human women, as had happened many a time before, he was turned away. The party began to equip themselves in a manner more suiting to their newly acquire wealth after their adventure out in the Marches. However soon they required more money to cover expenses and plans that they were making.

Whilst wandering about Corvis the party noticed that the city watch were hiring mercenaries on a temporary basis to bolster its numbers. Corvis had a large military presence, but as a result of the war against Khardor and the Protectorate, more men were required to fulfil the posts to ensure not only the cities security but also that of Eastern Cygnar. Interested in the possibility of work the party headed off for the city watch barracks. Having been directed to a room the players notice that there are many other mercenaries and adventurers interested in the possibility of work. Here in the room they also notice several new people who would later join their little band. This included Thalan Gesira, Sam Vimes a Kossite gunslinger and an Ogrun by the name of Ogrim. An officer of the watch and several others entered the room. The speaker introduced himself as Commander Julian Helstrom, and that the people who took up the jobs with the watch would be employed as temporary watchmen for an initial period of two weeks and receive a base pay of 250 Crowns for their services. The party after a brief discussion decided to take the offer. Once equipped with whistles and watch badges the party was sent off to meet their liaison, a local lieutenant in the watch called Merrik. He assigned them to investigate a spate of grave robbings from the cemetery.

The party headed off to the cemetery on the edge of the city. Admitted by the old and grumpy graveyard keeper they began their investigation. After a good look at the most recently disturbed graves and trying to find a connection between them and older graves that had been robbed, they quickly retired for the night, having been spooked by a few ghosts. The Druid remained behind to try and converse with one of the spectres, and after some trying managed to gather that some people were coming in and digging up grave sand taking things away on the back of a cart. These people apparently had beards. Several nights of watching the graveyard proved fruitless, the robbers did not return and the only things the player saw were of the supernatural variety. Which often lead them on a merry chase round the cemetery. Sam Vimes began his own line of investigation. Having heard from the watch that two of the guards that had patrolled near the cemetery had recently been murdered down on the docks, he went down there to see what he could find out. Kade the Fellcaller and Ogrim also went down to the docks to gather information on the dead watchmen. Entering a bar they began their investigatory process. This comprised of offering 100 crowns for the murderer to step forward as they wanted to pay him for a good job. A man stepped forward and claimed he was the killer. They arrested him, despite a few curses, punches and knives thrown at them as they left. Delivering him to the nearest watch station they left, feeling proud with themselves. The man was subsequently released by the watch and offered an apology. Sam on the other hand soon discovered from his questioning of barflies and whores that the two men had been moved from the cemetery beat to the watch a few weeks ago and that the grave robbing had been going on for at least 8 months, though very little had happened as of late, the last incident being a few weeks before. The bodies had been found with their throats slit and that the bodies had been dumped in some barrels in a back alley. The last place that the two watchmen had been seen was outside a well to do brothel, the Ruby Eye, on the edge of the docklands. Vimes then went to the Ruby Eye and began questioning people in the area. He learnt that the watchmen often came this way and occasionally visited the brothel. Returning to his friends in their lodgings he informed them of his discoveries, despite the arguments of Kade and Ogrim.

The next day they continued their investigation. Kade and Ogrim went to enquire as to the fate of the murderer they had brought in. On learning of his release they flew into a rage. After finding out his address they went over to his house, kicked in the door and pursued him further. Leaping from the window and running across ladders and walkways the innocent man finally managed to get away. Determined not to be outdone the two decided to continue working on the grave robbing case. Discovering that the University in Corvis had an anatomy department they immediately went there. After questioning the staff and several students at the university they discovered that the bodies for the anatomy classes came from convicted criminals executed at the city prison. This was their next stop. Investigation here proved that bodies of executed criminals were often sent out for use at the university. The last shipment had been some weeks ago. Realising that some of the university staff and the prison wardens all had beards used a wagon and were involved in the shipment of bodies the two came to the natural conclusion that there was some sort of evil necromancer cult in the city and that they had bust it wide open. The rest of the party ignored them.

Gaunt went to the Ruby eye to scope the place out. Tok tried to enter but was flatly refused by the heavies on the door. On enetering he noticed Thalan coming out. He exchanged a greeting with him. Gaunt spent sometime at the bar conversing with the barman there, asking about the brothel, business, the area and the watchmen. Eventually Gaunt decided to indulge himself and paid for the company of one of the girls there. Ogrim and Kade attempted to enter alos and they too were rejected. Going round the back of the establishment Ogrim threw Kade up onto the first floor window ledge. Kade after a brief investigation left the brothel by the way he had entered. Kade and Ogrim then left. Thrawcheld and Tok were more successful in casing the rear of the building. Hiding in the shadows and behind barrels and empty crates they noticed a group of bearded gentleman with Kharic accents enter the rear of the brothel. Tok remained in the back alley while Thrawcheld managed to scale the back of the brothel and enter via a 1st floor window. Tok managed to cut through some bars over a small window near the ground with acid that eh had created and enter. He found himself in a storeroom; crates, barrels and shelves of liquor and food were everywhere. After some investigation he managed to locate a secret door hidden behind a set of shelves. Defusing the magical trap with the aid of a bodged together stick, he had a quick look, discovering a subterranean passage. The passage lead down to a room with several locked doors, in this room however were some eplty coffins and a small shrine to Thamar. Fearing Necormancy he left. Hearing Kahrdic voices he reset the door and hid. Returning to the alley Tok then went round the front of the building. Round the front Ogrim was dining on oysters and shellfish at a nearby restraint. Unhappy with the service and quality of the oysters he began to cause a fight with the chef. Picking the chef up by the neck he began to shout at him. Not best pleased with this arrangement the chef immediately began to have at Ogrims face with his meat cleaver. Ogrim continued to shout and strangle the chef. The chefs wife then appeared, seeing an ogrun throttling her husband, something reserved purely for her, she threw scolding water on to Ogrim and the proceeded to beat him with a frying pan.. The burning and wounds to his face finally managed to render the ogrun unconscious. Thalan who happened to be passing having left the brothel after a couple of drinks and Tok who had now come round the front, managed to diffuse the situation and lead the defeated Ogrim away. Thrawcheld meanwhile began to look about the brothel having gained entry. Here he heard the efforts of Gaunt, in full swing and not doing too badly with his lady of choice. Not finding to much but getting an idea of the layout he the left, returning to his friends. Gaunt after his marathon session began to question his companion for the evening. He learnt that the two guards did come in here and often used to see Melise, a rather expensive lady of acquired tastes and the Madame, as well as pleasure themselves with the other women. Melises apartments were located on the top floor, accessible from here via s staircase. He also learnt that one of the watchment, the younger of the two had become increasingly nervous and jittery before his disappearance. Fulfilled, Gaunt made an appointment with Melise in a couple of day’s time and then left.

Planning their investigation into the brothel it was decide that Tok and Thrawcheld would keep an eye on the back. Ogrim, Thalan, Kade, the Kossite and the Druid would watch the front. Thalan would enter after gaunt and sit about in the bar downstairs keeping an eye on everything inside. Gaunt, nicely dressed entered. After a couple of drinks he was escorted upstairs to see Melise. Thalan then entered and took up position at a stool in the bar. Gaunt entered Melise room, sumptuously decorated in silks, but also adorned with various contraptions of restraint and torture. Gaunt was not quite sure what he had gotten himself into. After a brief chat with Melise, a tall raven haired beauty clad in black silk and leather, he revealed that he was investigating the murder of the watchmen and that he believed that some sort of smuggling was going on. Melise then proceeded to beat him senseless. The claws on her gloves were not just for effect, neither were her boots. Unconscious and helpless, she had her fun with him. Waking bloodied bruised and with an immense pain in his arse, Gaunt found himself bound naked to a table surrounded by bearded men with Kahrdic accents and Melise. The interrogation and torture then began.

Noticing that Gaunt was late, he had not returned at the designated time, Thalan left and gathered the others of the party. Storming the front of the building they managed to subdue the heavies. Running into the brothel they informed the patrons and staff that this was a bust by the watch. Panic then ensued. Several other heavies appeared and attempted to fight the party. A few bumps, bruised and a dead barman later the players began to investigate the brothel. Tok began to collect bottles of high proof alcohol and prepare them in the true Molotov style. Entering the kitchens Tok attempted to intimidate the chefs by threatening them with his newly acquired Molotovs. The Chefs staired at the strange creature before them, unimpresed. Tok then lit a molatov and tried again. The chefs did not bat an eyelid. Exclaiming that they were going to die horibly and he could not be hurt Tok smashed the firey weapon on himself. The chefs raised seveal sets of eyebrows. Thrawcheld entered and told themn to leave. They did so quickly, ignoring the flaming and rather angry gobber. Locating a door at the back they soon managed to find their way down into the stores and then to the passageway behind the shelves. Heading down they found themselves in a room cut into the rock. There were 3 doors. One of which appeared to be a store. The second door was locked and Ogrim began to cut through. Destroying part of the door the party peered in, discovering the tortured Gaunt, now surrounded by the Khards and Melise, he was now missing some toes and thumbs. Despite ineffectual shooting by the party and one of the Khards nobody managed to gain entry or leave the room. Tok lobbed several of his Molotov’s into the room, nearly burning Gaunt to death. The Kossite realising that the reaminder of the door was a hinderance decided he should really kick it in. So he did, and quite successfully too. However the party not being to bright then stood clustered in the middle of the doorway. Tok decided it was prudent to take some cover, so hid out of the Khards sight. One of the Khards brought out his blunderbuss and proceeded to shoot them. All bar Tok the Thalan and Ogrim were knocked unconscious and left dying on the floor. Melise used this opportunity to escape via the third door. The remainder of the party managed to defeat the remaining Khards with their ineffectual hacking an slashing as well as heal their injured friends. Gaunt who was close to death was saved. They quickly went to the Cathedral of Morrow where they found a cleric to reattach his thumbs, though his little toes were no more. More city watch arrived at the brothel and investigations were continued. Heading through the third door a small jetty was discovered where a boat had once been tied up. Various crates of weapons were found stacked on the side. Of Melise there was no trace.

The party were then given a week to recuperate. This left them with several more days on duty before their contracts expired. The results of the investigation showed that the graveyard keeper had been allowing Khards to store weapons in graves for a while once smuggled into the city. These were then transported across the city to the Ruby Eye, where they were then shipped out to ships that would take them down river to the Protectorate. The two guards were in on it and were being paid off in the brothel until one decided he wanted out. Then they were murdered.

The party was paid their 250 Crowns and after a pat on the back dismissed from the Corvis City Watch.

Formation and First Assignment

Donard 2nd Casteus, 605 AR.

The players all found themselves in Ternon Crag out in the Bloodstone Marches. While wandering about this city looking for work they notice that the local branch of the Corvis Mining Consortium is hiring guards. Interested in the pay they all head along to the Gold Standard in which the interviews are being held. The players sat around in the common room of the inn introducing themselves and getting to know each other when three gentlemen in suits entered. One of these was an elderly man who required a walking stick to get about; the other two were younger and carried leather folders and cases, clearly his assistants. The elderly man introduced himself as Jakob Rhound, the chairman of the Mining Consortium. His tow assistants were Wilhelm Mayner and Leto Darning. The job that he had for the players was to travel to the small mining town of Naggs End further out in the Bloodstone Marches, about 85 miles away. There had been some recent trouble there, bandits and other things which had started to effect the mines operation. The mine itself is a gem mine, mining semi precious stones which are then transported to Ternon Crag and then to Corvis for luxury products. The Players accept the work and with their initial pay of 250gp in advance they head out into town preparing themselves.

They return the next morning geared up and ready. They join the supply convoy and its guards heading out to Naggs End. The journey south takes several days and though they see the occasional wild creature the trip is rather uneventful other than a broken wheel which had to be replaced. Finally they arrive in Naggs End. It really is a one horse town. The mine, a few miles away, dominates the life and nature of the settlements. Without it the place wouldn’t exist. Setting themselves up in the small and modest house provided for them by the company the players then head out to explore the area. Wilhelm accompanied them on their journey as he is their company representative here in the town. He heads off to the company warehouses and compounds so sort out business. Locating the only general store and tavern the players soon return to their house and begin to secure it. The Khardic Arcane Mechanic and Tok booby trap the entrances whilst the Trollkin, Thrawcheld and Gaunt nail crooked bits of wood against the windows. The Khard, Tok and Troll kin then head back into town to fetch some supplies. They meet a gentleman on the way who introduces himself as Gosar Orsokin, a local entrepreneur. After some polite conversation he warns them that the best be careful round here. Returning with some rations from the store the party rests up for the night.

The next morning they headed out to the mine with Wilhelm. Its several miles to the West located amongst some small wooded hills. The Khard and Gaunt asses the condition of the steam engines used to pull the trolleys up and down the tracks in the mine and find them in a dismal state of repair. Wilhelm disappears into the foreman’s office and gets down to company business. The players after a few brief chats with some of the miners about the area and what the mine is like head down along with the foreman who had finished his business with Wilhelm. They head down to the lowest levels of the mines, which had been shut off since a recent cave in and disappearance of several miners. They leave the foreman and begin to head off down one of the tunnels, finding it a dead end they head back, only to discover the foreman dead by a head wound, from a pick axe. Hearing something from another tunnel they charge in. Standing before them is a shaft wight. After some battling two more appear, surrounding the players. Despite some serious injuries, a few spells from Guant and some good shots from Thrawcheld soon destroy the monstrosities. The Foreman and the bodies of the shaft wights, two of whom match the descriptions of lost miners are burnt. Heading back up theres is some commotion at the news of the foreman’s death and the shaft wights, many of the miners were quite spooked. The players rest up for a while and investigate the miners further, finding no more shaft wights, thus allaying the miners fears. Thrawcheld while investigating, attempted to steal clumps of rock in which are some precious stones. He however was spotted by the miners and failed to get away with it. Tok noticing this steals a lump himself when nobody is looking. With little else to do the Khard and Gaunt ask Wilhelm to order in some clockwork and steam engine parts and a few other things which they believe can be used to improve the mines efficiency. Wilhelm obliges them, and the parts should arrive in a week or two with he next load of supplies.

The Players return to town and rest, enjoying a night in the tavern, Gosar is there and though pleasant to them he has an air of menace. Asking Wilhelm and other locals about him, they learn that he and his men are something of the local mafia. Noting that he is certainly a power to be reckoned with here about they decide to steer a wide berth of him. The next day a shipment of stones is to be sent to Ternon Crag. In an effort to outwit some of the bandits that have plagued these shipments as of late, the players make a mock up wagon in which Tok, Thrawcheld and the Druid hide. The wagons head out, on the way out Gosar bids the visible players a good day. Several miles out they are attacked on all sides by a group of bandits, some of whom have rifles and begin sniping at them. A brief fire fight ensues; the hidden players emerge and engage the bandits trying to take the wagons. Several bandits are killed and the others flee. Rounding up two horses that the bandits left behind the Druids wolf peruses some of those that fled. Unfortunately they to were mounted and had managed to get away. Seeing the convoy halfway to Ternon Crag the party turns about and returns to town with their fake wagon. Upon their return Gosar welcomes them. Heading to Wilhelm the players enquire if anybody in the warehouse new about the convoy heading out, they discover that several of the labourers who loaded the wagons did. One of whom has gone missing. Returning to their house the players rest for the night.

The next day the body of one of the missing labourers is found hanging from the front of his house. Several days pass with little activity, things are quiet. The players ret, get to know some of the locals and practice their skills. Guant and Tok begin to draw up plans for various clockwork and steam powered drilling and mining devices. Finally the ordered parts arrive. The players head up to the mine to make their intended modifications and repairs. Whilst there they learn that a few desert lions have been seen in the area and have scarred some of the workers away. Lead by the Druid the head out tracking the lions. They locate one and engage it. Only to be ambushed in the flanks by 3 other lions. A desperate fight ensues in which some of the players are severely injured. Surving the return to the mine. Guant skinning a lion and taking its pelt and making it into a fashionable cloak.. They take some goats and kill them and poison their flesh. These they leave out for the remaining lions who take the bait. They return the next day and track the lions, finding their den in some caves a few miles away from the mine. Inside are several dead adult lions and their cubs. Meanwhile Gaunt searches the area looking for various poisonous creatures. After some effort he manages to capture several scorpions and begins to milk them of their poison.

With the extra parts brought in Tok and Gaunt begin to construct prototypes of their drilling machines. That eveing they get a visit from Gosar. He brings with him a small keg of beer which he offers to share with the players. Suspicious of his intentions and involvement with local bandits they refuse. Insults are traded and threats made against Gosar. Peering out of the window the Druid notices several armed men. A smashing sound draws the attention of the players who see a large Trollkin with a huge axe walk in through the back door. Gosar tired of them leaves, warning them again.

Several more days pass and the length of the players contract with the company is almost up. Preparing to leave they head into town one last time to set their affair in order. Leto had come down from Ternon Crag to conduct some business. Hoping to have their newly invented drilling machine patented Tok and Gaunt hand over their plans to him and receive a receipts and contracts ensuring their royalties and rights for the sale and production of these devices by the consortium. Leto with his bodyguards heads back of to Ternon Crag. The Players then go back to their house. Passing the tavern on the way, Gosar and his men were sitting outside drinking and playing cards. Several jibes and jeers were exchanged. Unable to control himself the Khard lunged forwards and colour sprayed the group. Unaffected by his spell Gosars men arm themselves. He attempts again but fails to get all of them. The Trollkin Bodyguard leaps forward and cleaves the Khard in to. Unsure what to do the rest of players offer no resistance and back off. Gosar tells them to leave town.

The players return to their house and sleep. Taking it in turns to take watch, fearing attacks by Gosars men. The next morning the players join up with the next shipment of gems going out to Ternon Crag. Apart from a few bumps and falls from the wagons, in which Thrawcheld was hurt the trip again is relatively uneventful. Upon return to Ternon Crag the players are paid an extra 100gp for their services and thanked by the company. Tok and Gaunt, investigating the status of the patents discover that the inventions patented in the companies name, and that all knowledge of their involvement is denied. Despite arguing and meeting Leto in the Consortiums offices they get nowhere. Defeated, they leave town after a few days, heading west to Corvis, designing new and different drilling machines on the way.